EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/1/2010 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

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  ARGENTINA   


Kyle Lamonte to Penarol - by Eurobasket News
Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: William Carey) is expected to join Penarol in the upcoming days. The 25-year-old guard is about to replace Mike Jones (196-G-84, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Maryland) on the roster. Kyle Lamonte began this season in Uruguay. He was the top-scorer in Atletico Aguada. He averaged outstanding 32.8 points per game. Lamont also tallied 6.9 rebounds and 4.9 assists per appearance. The guard graduated from William Carey University back in 2008. He had a short visit to Europe where he signed for Banvit in Turkey. Last year Kyle Lamonte moved to South America to join Aguada.


Jimmy Boston pens deal with Sionista - by Eurobasket News
Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) became the new player in Sionista. The 32-year-old forward replaced LaShawn Malloy (209-C/F-84, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: New Orleans) on the roster. Jimmy Boston started the season in La Union. He tallied 5.0 points and 2.3 boards in eight games played. Last season Jimmy Boston played for Gimnasia Esgrima Rivadavia. The forward delivered 11.7 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists per appearance in LigaA.


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  AUSTRIA   


Kohlmaier back in St. Poelten - by Stefan Prager
UBC St. Polten announced that they brought back center Martin Kohlmaier (218-C-84). The 7'2'' Kohlmaier last played at the LTi Giessen 46ers in Germany. The club had high expectations in Kohlmaier who played a pretty solid campaign in spanish LEB Silver at La Palma the year before. In the end Giessen was not satisfied with Kohlmaier after 14 games into the season and they parted ways with him. Kohlmaier said that his situation in Giessen was not easy because of the guard oriented game in Germany. Kohlmaier played for St. Poelten in the 2007/08 campaign. He was named an Austrian All Star that year. His first game will be on the ninth of January when St. Poelten will face the BasketClubs of Vienna.

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  CYPRUS   


Top Cypriot player abroad for 2009! - by Chris Mammides
The top perfomer from all the Cyprus players playing abroad for the year 2009 is Antreas Andrea Sizopoulos (189-G-83)! Andrea Sizopoulos who's currently playing in one of the top seated teams of the A2 division in Greece, Arkadikos, is an outstanding player and is among the top players in the Greek A2 league. Antreas is now playing in the Greek league for seven consecutive seazons and each seazon is a much better than the previous one. The year 2009 will end in a few hours and is bringing to the Cyprus international many achievements. Only in the statistical aspect, Andrea Sizopoulos has achieved with his current team Arkadikos, the following numbers after 11 rounds: 143 points, the top scorer of his team, 34 rebounds, the third rebounder of his team, 16 Assists and 14 steals, he is definetely the MVP for the Arcadia team which is curently figuring in the third position of the league.


Eurobasket is wishing all the best to the Cyprus international and 2010 to bring him in an A1 team in the Greek league.


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  D-LEAGUE   


Conroy, D-League's All-Time Scorer Returns - by Gerard Lim
The NBA Development League Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced today that they have officially acquired point guard Will Conroy (6'2''-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington) from the Albuquerque Thunderbirds for center Kurt Looby.

Conroy is the NBA D-Leagues all-time leader in points (2,779), minutes played (5,852), free throws made (660), free throws attempted (948) as well as assist man with 1,267 garnered during his first stay. He is also third all-time in steals with 238. That amounts to career averages of 26.5 points to go with 8.0 assists and 4.8 rebounds in 47 games, (all starts) for the Thunderbirds while playing a league-best 44.9 minutes per game last season.

All the success Conroy had during his first D-League outing has Vipers General Manager Gersson Rosas convinced on what the point guard can bring. 'We think that Conroy will bring a high level of talent to the point guard position for the RGV Vipers. Obtaining a top flight point guard will provide our team with its best chance at success and is also crucial to the continual development of our primary players. We paid a costly price in trading Kurt Looby, a valued RGV Viper, but it was worth the cost to obtain a talented individual that we value at both the NBA and the NBADL levels,' the Vipers General Manager said.

Conroy who was the last cut from the Houston Rockets training camp averaged 6.0 points 2.6 assists in five games before going overseas. He spent a very brief time in the NBA having played for other teams like the Grizzlies and Clippers.

'Will is a veteran who has matured through his time in the NBA and the NBADL and fully understands the philosophy of the Houston Rockets both on and off the court and we look forward to the impact he will bring to the RGV Vipers and the community. We look for Will to provide leadership to our young roster in the same fashion that Mike Harris did before he was called up. Will has aspirations to get back to the NBA and he understands that in order to achieve that he has to be successful and meet expectations both on and off the court during his time at RGV,' Rosas said.

Conroy arrived last night in the Rio Grande Valley.

Conroy Will (6'2''-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington)'s Other NBA Development League Achievements:

All-NBA Development League First Team honors
2009 NBA Development League All-Star
2009 NBA Development League H.O.R.S.E. competition winner
Twice named NBA Development League Performer of the Week
NBA Development League Co-Player of the Month in January
2009 Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award

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  EUROCUP   


Aris bring in Ivan Paunic - by Eurobasket News
Aris signed until the end of the season Ivan Paunic (194-G-87, agency: Beo Basket). The Greek team parted ways with Juan Dixon (191-G-78, college: Maryland) and needed to fill in the available spot. They opted for the 22-year-old Serbian. Ivan Paunic tipped off the season in Belgium. He averaged 10.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game for Oostende. Ivan Paunic participated at the World University Games this year. He tallied 8.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game helping the Serbian team to earn the title in Belgrade. Ivan Paunic was the member of the National team at the 2009 EuroBasket.


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Prokom land Ratko Varda - by Eurobasket News
Prokom found the replacement for Pape Sow (208-F-81, college: Cal.St. Fullerton). They signed a one-month deal with Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79). The 30-year-old centre started the previous season in Zalgiris Kaunas. He averaged 2.5 points and 2.5 boards per Euroleague appearance. In LKL Ratko Varda delivered 19.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists. Later he moved to Khimky in Russia. Varda tallied 7.8 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in Superleague. In EuroCup the centre notched 6.7 points and 2.2 boards.


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  FRANCE   


All-Star Game takes place in Paris - by Eurobasket News
The Palais Omnisport Paris-Bercy welcomed the French League All-Star Game yesterday. The French Players Team narrowly defeated the Imports Team 89:88. The Frenchmen led throughout the game. They enjoyed a 26:12 lead at the first intermission. The Imports narrowed the deficit at 6 points at halftime. The margin grew thinner in the third quarter. The Imports entered the fourth frame down by just 2 points. It all came down to the final seconds. The Frenchmen were just more accurate late in regulation snatching a narrow one-point win at the end.
Steed Tchicamboud (193-G-81) scored 18 points to lead the winners. Tchicamboud was named the MVP of the game. Antoine Diot (191-G-89) knocked down 14 points, while Pape Badiane (207-F/C-80, college: Cleveland St.) added 12 points in the victory. Angel Vassalo responded with 22 points for the Imports Team. Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Arkansas St.) and Sean Marshall (198-G/F-85, college: Boston Coll.) had 15 points apiece in the loss.
The All-Star Game was preceded by the usual contests. Kareem Reid (178-G-75, college: Arkansas) won the NikeID Challenge. Thomas Andrieux (194-G-77) was the best three-point shooter. He overcame Cedrick Banks who was defending the title. Kevin Kemp celebrated the title of the best dunker. Kemp outclassed Guy Dupuy in the final stage of the Dunk Contest.


French ProB transactions - by Philippe Burstert
Hermine Nantes Atlantique (FRA Pro-B) has found a replacement for Regis Boissie (180-G-78) (knee cruciate ligament rupture).
Hermine signed Taron Downey (186-G-83, college: Wake Forest), PG U.S. (27 years, 1.85 m) which evolved since October with Passe-Partout Leuven Bears in Belgium (8.6 pts in 25'de average), a club which has been cut it three weeks ago.
Quimper UJAP (FRA-Pro B) signed French playmaker, Mickal Toti (22 years) to replace Daniel Oyono (196-F/C-83) injured until end of February. He played last season in Rouen (Pro A)
Etendard de Brest (FRA-Pro B) signed the French guard, Jean-Yves Zahoui (178-G-88) (178, 21 years) who played last season in Union Poitiers Basket 86 (Pro B)


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  GERMANY   


The Minister Of Defense Quantez Robertson Gets Contract extension with The Deutsche Bank Skyliners - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Over the summer as new players were being signed, many wondered what management of The Deutsche Bank Skyliners had in mind with unknown players and rookies coming in, but after many months the club can be commended for excellent work as Seth Doliboa, Grayson Moyer and Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) have exceeded expectations and the latter player got a nice present getting a contract extension with an option for next season.The 25 year old 190cm combo guard is a BEKO BBL rookie who played at Auburn from 2005-2009. This season, he is averaging 5,9ppg, 3,3rpg, 1,9apg and 1,2spg. He is primarly known for his pesky and aggressive defense, but has had fine moments displaying a fire power on offense scoring in double figures four times. He scored 15 points against The Telekom Baskets Bonn, beat The Duesseldorf Giants with a buzzer beater and hit a clutch three pointer in crunch time helping his team beat The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig on the road.Robertson who will take part at the 2010 BEKO BBL slam dunk contest is thrilled that he got the contract extension. 'I am happy to be in FRankfurt. The team is strong and is run in a very professional manner. I hope I can continue to give back what I get in confidence from the club', stressed Quantez Robertson. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners are also thrilled by the way Robertson has played as a rookie. 'Quantez has become a very important factor on defense for us. He works very hard, and he has a lot of potential. He is a team player and fits perfectly to us with his charachter', said Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak .
Source: www.deutschebankskyliners.de

BEKO Bundesliga Game Day 17 Wednesday December 30th, 2009 - by Michael Taylor
Midweek Holiday Hoops filled the calendar as Beko Basketball Bundesliga Game Day 17 entertained Deutschland. Ewe Baskets Oldenburg topped Telekom Baskets Bonn in a championship series rematch, ALBA Berlin earned a hardfought road win in Ludwigsburg, Deutsche Bank Skyliners beat NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig, brose Baskets Bamberg topped TBB Trier, Eisbaren Bremerhaven picked up an impressive road win in Artland and Walter Tigers Tubingen took bragging rights against ratiopharm Ulm in the Baden Wurtemburg Derby.

Wednesday December 30th, 2009
Ewe Baskets Oldenburg 81 Telekom Baskets Bonn 59
Josh Carter topscored with 20pt making 4 of 6 threes while Rickey Paulding and Marko Skecic added 16 points apiece powering defending Bundesliga champions Ewe Baskets Oldenburg to an 81-59 home win over Telekom Baskets Bonn in a rematch of last summers Bundesliga championship series Wednesday night at Ewe Arena in Oldenburg. The Thunderbirds opened a 23-15 lead after 1Q but Bonn bounced back to trim the gap to 34-32 at half. A strong 3Q helped Oldenburg to a 50-42 lead going into the 4th where the Thunderbirds outscored Bonn 31-17 cruising to the 81-59 home win at EweArena. As a team, Oldenburg shot 53% from the floor, making 9 of 23 threes (39%) and 12 of 21 FT (57%) while Bonn hit 35% of their shots including 3 of 15 threes (20%) and 16 of 23 from the foul line (69%). Bonn won the battle on the boards 39-35. Ronald Dupree led Bonn with 19pt 4reb while Tim Ohlbrecht added 11pt and Jared Jordan chipped in ten. Head coach Predrag Krunic and his Thunderbirds improve to 10-5 while Bonn dropped to 11-6.

ALBA Berlin 77 EnBW Ludwigsburg 67
Julius Jenkins hit 4 of 6 threes and Rashad Wright drilled 3 of 5 as both totaled 12 points leading ALBA Berlin to a tough 77-67 road win over EnBW Ludwigsburg Wednesday night at Ludwigsburg Arena. Post men Blagota Sekulic and Adam Chubb balanced the Berlin perimeter attack with 10pts apiece on the inside for ALBA. Jurica Golemac added 9pt 4reb 4ast and Philip Zweiner chipped in 8pt 6reb for Berlin in the win. Ludwigsburg led early taking a 22-19 advantage after 1Q before Berlin took control in the 2Q for a 43-37 halftime lead. ALBA maintained through the 3Q before sealing the win in the 4th. In the win, ALBA shot 48% from the floor making 9 of 21 threes (42%) and 18 of 28 FT (64%) while outrebounding Ludwigsburg 31-27. Quadre Lollis enjoyed a terrific game against his former team topscoring for Ludwigsburg with 15pt 3reb 8ast while Mike King added 14pt and Domonic Jones chipped in 10. Ludwigsburg hit 47% from the floor including 8 of 16 threes (50%) and 9 of 14 FT (64%) in the loss. Head coach Luka Pavicevic and his ALBA team upped their record to a league best 12-3 while Ludwigsburg evens at 8-8.

Deutsche Bank Skyliners 81 NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig 77
Aubrey Reese was in topform scoring 21pt with 4reb 4ast while Greg Jenkins added 19pt 6reb and Seth Doliboa chipped in 13pt 6boards leading Deutsche Bank Skyliners to an 81-77 roadwin over NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig Wednesday night at Volkswagonhalle in Braunschweig. After an even 1Q at 20, the Phantoms made a run taking a 50-42 lead at half. Frankfurt responded with a 19-10 3Q taking a 61-60 lead into the 4th where the SKyliners picked up their 3rd straight victory. Frankfurt shot 52% from the floor making 7 of 15 threes (46%) and 18 of 24 FT (75%) while the Phantoms hit 50% from the field including 10 of 29 threes (34%) and 11 of 16 FT (68%). Braunschwieg outrebounded Frankfurt 28-26 but the Phantoms suffered 16 turnovers to Skyliners 12. Braunschweig was led by Brandon Thomas' 17pt, Yassin Idbihi's 16pt 12reb double double and Heiko Schaffartzik's 4-7 three point sharpshooting for 14pt in the loss. Head coach Murat Didin and his Skyliners up their record to 11-6 while Braunschwieg evens at 8-8.

brose Baskets Bamberg 75 TBB Trier 59
Predrag Suput produced 15pt 9reb, Brian Roberts added 14pt and Elton Brown chipped in a 12pt 11reb double double lifting brose Baskets Bamberg to a strong 75-59 road win over Trier Wednesday night at Trier arena. Casey Jacobsen sank 3 threes to add 11 points and Tibor Pliess totaled 7 points 10boards in the win. Bamberg took a 21-19 lead after 1Q and held a 41-33 lead at half. Bamberg took control of the game with a 21-9 3Q building a 62-42 lead going into the 4th before cruising to the 75-59 road win. Jamal Shuler hit 4 of 8 threes as part of his 20pt 7reb effort for Trier and James Gillingham added 11pt in the loss. As a team, Bamberg shot 51% from the floor making 11 of 26 threes (43%) and 6 of 11 FT (54%) while outrebounding Trier 41-26. Trier sank 34% from the field making 11 of 29 threes (37%) and 6 of 10 FT (60%). Head coach Chris Fleming and his Bamberg team won their 5th straight game improving to 10-7 while Trier slipped to 7-9.

Eisbaren Bremerhaven 87 Artland Dragons 72
Lou Campbell had 21pt 7ast leading Eisbaren Bremerhaven to an 87-72 road win over Artland Dragons Wednesday night at Artland Arena in Quakenbruck. Kevin Lyde added 19pt and Jeff Gibbs 10pt 8reb for Bremerhaven in the win. Artland used their homecourt for a strong start taking a 23-19 lead after 1Q before Bremerhaven bounced back with a 2Q run taking a 44-35 halftime lead. Bremerhaven continued their surge into the 3Q outscoring Artland 26-16 building a 70-51 advantage going into the 4th where they took the impressive road win. Bremerhaven shot 57% from the floor making 7 of 21 threes (33%) and 18 of 22 FT (81%) while Artland hit 46% from the field including 5 for 22 from three (22%) and 13 for 18 free throws (72%). Bremerhaven outrebounded Artland 31-23 in their hardfought road win. Toby Bailey paced the Artland attack with 19pt while Darren Fenn added 13pt for the Dragons. Head coach Doug Spradley and his Eisbaren up their record to 9-7 while Artland falls to 9-8.

Walter Tigers Tubingen 94 ratiopharm Ulm 78
Romeo Travis went for 25pt 9reb and Michael Jenkins added 20pt as Walter Tigers Tubingen beat rival ratiopharm Ulm 94-78 in the heated Baden Wurtemburg Derby Wednesday night at Paul Horn Arena in Tubingen. Ulm started strong taking a 17-16 lead after 1Q but the Tigers outscored Ulm 28-17 in the 2Q building a 44-34 halftime lead. Ulm trimmed the gap to five early in the third before Tubingen took control of the game building a 73-58 lead after 3. Ulm battled back in the 4th but the Tigers maintained their lead for the 94-78 home win protecting their home court for the first time in four seasons of the rivalry. Along with Travis' strong effort against his former team and the key play of Jenkins, Branislav Ratkovica added 17pt 6ast for the Tigers. Tubingen shot 49% from the floor making 6 of 24 threes (25%) and 24-34 (70%) from the foul line compared with Ulm's 52% from the field 7 for 18 threes (38%) and 15 of 26 FT (57%). The Tigers outrebounded Ulm 37-33 and the key stat for the game was Ulm's 19 turnovers to Tubingen's 9. Christian Burns led Ulm with 21pt 7reb and Robin Benzing had 16pt in the loss for Ulm. With the win, Head coach Igor Perovic and his Tigers upped their record to 7-10 while Ulm fell to 6-12.


The Deutsche Bank Skyliners Leave The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig Out To Freeze In The Snow 81-77 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
With The Deutsche Bank Skyliners trailing in crunch time which recently has been as common as actor Charlie Sheen opening the door to the cops displayed Tom Brady nerves of past Super Bowl wins and once again rallied in superb fashion with the total composure and self confidence that seemed similar to the famous 1998 speech of ex US President Bill Clinton who showed this calmness and total assurance when he uttered the unforgettable words 'I did not have sexual relations with that woman' as the gang of Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ) won their 8th in a row against Braunschweig 81-77. The game had two different faces as the first half displayed pure offense and in the second half, Frankfurt stepped up their defense which led them to the win. 'Braunschweig shot like crazy in the first half, but in the second half, we got stronger on defense and they were not making as many shots anymore. We hit timely shots and Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) and Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.) made big plays to help us win', stressed Frankfurt guard Aubrey Reese (183-G-78, agency: Interperformances, college: Murray St.). For Braunschweig nothing has been easy in their 2-7 record, but since losing Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine) and Michael Hicks (193-G-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Missouri), it seems like they have gotten hit with a double whammy as winning games puts even more stress on their eight man rotation. 'In the first half, Idbihi did a good job scoring and getting rebounds, but in the second half, he got tired and it is never easy to keep up strong play for 35 minutes. Frankfurt did a good job containing him. We couldnt stop Frankfurt in the second half. Reese led the team and Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) was tough down low. Our biggest problem continues to be getting stops when we need them', stressed ex Holy Cross player Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross).

In every arena, there is some mascot that is entertaining the crowd and giving the home team luck in spirit. In the Volkswagonhalle, it is no different with the scary looking Braunschweig Phantom being very supportive and was also having fun riding around on a little kids scooter. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were not scared by the mysterious darkness of the arena or got overwhelmed by fierceness of the Phantom. 'They have a sweet mascot. And I think that it should get the coolness award. Their phantom definitely tried to scare us, but we made a quick call out to the Ghostbusters to scare them away in the fourth quarter', joked Skyliner forward Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig seemed a bit let down that their mascot could not aid the team the way it usually can, but they definitely know that his effort isnt lacking. 'I dont think that our phantom helped them, but if it did than it should get fired. He is always giving us energy in the locker room though', added Braunschweig guard Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross).

A few days ago, Ohio native Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.) had uttered the bold words that he was hoping to take a new team shooting record into 2010, which they didnt do, but The Deutsche Bank Skyliners shot very well from the field at 53% and 47% from the three point line. Doliboa will be spending new years in Paris and might let the good team shooting carry over and find some luck when he attempts the ultimate three point shot form the Effel Tower into a trash can sitting next to the Seine river. 'I think the best way for me to make this ultimate shot, I would take a floater the way Reese does and just let it float in', laughed Skyliner American Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). Affable Skyliner guard Aubrey Reese who is known for sporting elaborate sunglasses and always finding the right phrases at any time of the day had some advice for his teammate to be successful from the most famous tower in the world. 'I dont know if a floater would work for Seth, but I think his best chance would be too let it bounce a few times and pray that it lands in the trash can and hope that it dont hit a head and hurt someone', joked Skyliner guard Aubrey Reese.

Deutsche Bank Skyliner American Aubrey Reese had another stellar game as he finished with 21 points, four rebounds, four assists and three steals. He showed again how versatile he is and that without him, the club would be about as different as cool Marty Mcfly in the real world in 1985 and geek Marty Mcfly in 1955 from the classic movie Back to the future with Michael J Fox. Reese is gaining more and more credibility and moving up to the top point guards in the BEKO BBL. In the first half, he abstained from scoring and was the playmaker and in the second half, he reversed roles by scoring more. However his biggest asset, is his barefaced but extremely effective aura of self confidence that he displays on the court that not only effects his own team, but also the opponent. 'I am one of the more experienced guys on the team. The team feels my confidence and follow me as leader and everybody feels good about themselves. This team doesnt worry about mistakes and whenever we get down, it seems like we are always able to kick it up another gear. The confidence of this team is rising', stressed Aubrey Reese. The team leader used to be captain Pascal Roller (180-G-76), but that role has clearly changed now as Reese has slipped into this role with the captain coming from the bench and being effective with his shooting touch. Even when his teammates speak about him, there seems to be a twinkle in their eyes. 'He has a lot of self confidence on and off the court. He is just a good character to be around', stressed Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). One of Reeses most prettiest plays of the game was when he slipped into the zone half heartingly looking like an old lady had scolded him for not giving her a seat on the bus and then all of the sudden changed speeds flying by German National player Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) as if he was trying to catch the geese flying south for the winter. 'Reese is like a little motorcycle when he is changing gears', joked Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.).

The biggest mystery of the game was the inactivity of Skyliner forward Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) who sat at the end of the bench and didnt see his first action until half way through the second quarter. It has been no secret that Allen has been in a little slump, but for a top player like Allen not to play was hard to believe. Allen is one of the hardest workers in the BEKO BBL and the first thing he did after the game was to talk to ex teammate Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine). Fox was shaking his head about the little play of his ex teammate from Leverkusen days. 'I guess that it was a coaches decision, but honestly a player of his capabilities has to be in the game at all times. They got the win which is most important', said Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine). Getting a funny or witty remark from Skyliner coach Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ) is almost always a given, but sometimes he really likes to talk around having to give the answer that you want to really hear. 'We dont look how long a player plays. It doesnt matter if he plays 2 or 14 minutes. Other guys were performing at his position. I had no idea that he only scored three points. He played good defense and helped the team win, which is most important', added Skyliner coach Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ).

Both clubs wanted to end 2009 with a win as The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were looking for their fifth win in their sixth game and The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig wanted to rebound after their disappointing 95-85 loss in Hagen. Braunschweig was also without key players Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine) and Michael Hicks (193-G-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Missouri). The game started off very fast as both teams starting hitting shots and rarely missing while the defense looked suspect, but was being aggressive as both teams were making tough shots. American Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Massachusetts) who has made a big jump from the lower leagues of Norway and Austria and is averaging 10 points this season, scored the first seven points for Braunschweig showing his shooting magic from outside and athletic prowness from inside as they led 7-4. Skyliner center Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) also started out on a fury as he made two shots inside, but his counterpart Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) was a monster inside touching almost everything and it turning to gold as he was set up twice by Hamilton inside as Braunschweig led 13-8. Frankfurt kept fighting back as Doliboa hit a three pointer and Reese scored on a lay up. Grayson Moyer (196-G-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Humboldt St.) then hit an open three pointer after getting a sweet kick out pass from Reese and Frankfurt led 16-15. Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) who had been fairly quiet made a catch and pop jumper and both teams were knotted at 20 points after one quarter. 'The game was pretty even. Reese and Jenkins were doing a good job for Frankfurt and Braunschweig was getting a lot of help from many players', stressed BBC Bayreuth youth coordinator Sean McCaw. 'Our game plan was to let them shoot and that is exactly what they did', stressed Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 53% from the field and 67% from outside while The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig were shooting 54% from the field and 29% from outside

In the second quarter, the efficient scoring rampage of both teams continued as Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) continued to lift eye brows in the Volkswagonhalle with a fade away jumper and Reese made a three pointer as Frankfurt led 26-22. Frankfurt then slipped inside letting Idbihi do what he wanted as he made a tip in and a fade away jumper as the Frankfurt resistance inside looked invisible. What made Braunschweig very strong on this day was that they got support from many guys. Tomasz Cielebak (203-F-76, college: Marist) nailed two three pointers as Braunschweig led 34-29. Frankfurt came back with a mini 4-0 run as Pascal Roller (180-G-76) made a three pointer and Grayson Moyer (196-G-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Humboldt St.) a runner coming from the wing past Nils Mittman. Braunschweig kept being a tick better on offense as they continued getting help form the bench as ex Ludwigsburg German Nils Mittmann came in and buried a three pointer and a jumper as Braunschweig led 41-38. Down the stretch, it was Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Massachusetts) who made an open jumper and Idbihi who continued to do what he wanted as he made a tip in and dropped a fade away jumper as the halftime buzzer sounded as The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig led 50-42. 'Both teams were playing with a lot of intensity. Many shots were going in and defense was being played, but tough shots were falling also', stressed Braunschweig sports director Oliver Braun The biggest problem in the second quarter was the inability of Frankfurt to set up a wall under their own basket. 'We rebounded really bad in the second quarter. We werent boxing out and the ball was not bouncing our way, but I wouldnt say that it was a lack of effort', stressed Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 67% from the field and 80% from the parking lot while The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig were shooting 59% form the field and 40% from the parking lot. Braunschweig out rebounded Frankfurt 9-1 in the second quarter and led the rebounding duel 16-7. Frankfurt had nine turnovers and Braunschweig only seven.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig started the third quarter with baskets from Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) with an off balance jumper and a Thomas lay in on the fast break. However Frankfurt finally increased their intensity and offense going on a 17-3 run to retake the lead 58-57. Frankfurt got valuable production from Aubrey Reese who hit a three pointer and made a steal and went coast to coast. Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.) made a tip in off a Jenkins miss and Moyer scored on the fast break after retrieving a crisp bounce pass from Reese. Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) then followed possibly with his hottest move in a Skyliner uniform as he totally outfaced Jason Cain on the base line spinning around him as if he had had Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi)s ballerina shoes on. The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig were not as fluid or as consistent on offense anymore, but the Frankfurt defense had finally gotten a wakeup call in the halftime from Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ). 'Frankfurt had made adjustments and came out with more intensity. They tightened up their defense and we couldnt hold our lead', commented Braunschweig American Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine). The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 57% from the field and 50% from outside while The New Yorker Phnatoms braunschweig were shooting 53% from the field and 35% from outside. Braunschweig was still leading the rebounding battle 21-17, but now were leading the turnover race 14-12.

The fourth quarter remained tight as John Allen gave Braunschweig the 62-61 lead back with a fade away jumper. Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) remained unstoppable as he made a turn around jumper and looked like a top BEKO BBL center on this day. Braunschweig still had a lot of energy and had not thrown their heart out into the freezing Braunschweig night as they went on a mini 5-0 run as Allen made a fade away jumper off the dribble in the lane and Schaffartzik hit the first of three three pointers in the last quarter. Braunschweig led 70-65. 'We knew that Heiko was a good shooter. He doesnt need much space to shoot so we crowded him. He is really unbelievable and will really help this team', stressed Aubrey Reese. As has been the case so often this season, time was running down and Frankfurt was trailing. However they had nerves of steel as Reese scored inside and Pascal Roller (180-G-76) made a clutch three pointer to tie the score at 70. After a Cielebak free throw, Frankfurt kept on the pressure as they surprised the whole arena by unleashing a perfect crunch time ally-op as Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) found Doliboa underneath for the dunk. Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) then was open form the wing giving Frankfurt the 75-71 win. It brought back memories to his buzzer beater in Duesseldorf with the only difference that he didnt wait until the last second like in Duesseldorf. 'I didnt have to wait until the end. I was open earlier and made the shot', joked Robertson. 'That was a tough shot by Robertson to hit', said Braunschweig guard Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross). Is Robertson a mini Aubrey Reese in the making? 'I wouldnt say a mini Reese, but Tez is coming into his own. He is so valuable to us. He is always getting more and more comfortable and helps us with big shots', commented Aubrey Reese.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were only up 75-71, but continued to really annoy Braunschweig in their offense set as they forced Hamilton to taka a tough shot. 'There wasnt much time left on the shot clock and I was caught in my dribble and instead of getting the set play started, I decided to take the shot. I feel bad about missing the shot, but I had good intensions', stressed Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross). 'I dont second guess anything Kevin does. He is our playmaker and has the ability in these kind of situations to make the right plays', added Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine). Frankfurt got four big free throws from Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.), but were agitated as Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) nailed two three pointers keeping Braunschweig in the game, but it wasnt enough as Frankfurt had built a nice enough cushion to exit with a win. 'Schaffartzik has been making these kind of shots all season long. I hope that the team continues to get better around him', commented Braunschweig guard John Allen. 'We had our hands up, but he just made the shots', added Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn). Frankfurt escaped Braunschweig at the end with a few key factors. 'We attacked the rim, made shots and made our free throws', expressed Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn). Staying cool is something Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ) cant always do on the sideline, but his team does on the court. 'We kept our composure and are never scared of losing. We never panicked and just do what we always do which is sustain their runs and make our shots', warned Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.).

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Aubrey Reese with 21 points, four rebounds and four assists. American Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) added 19 points and six rebounds. Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.) chipped in with 13 points and six rebounds. The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig were led by Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Massachusetts) with 17 points Yassin Idbihi chipped in with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) chipped in with 14 points.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners had one of their better team shooting performances shooting 53% from the field and 47% from the parking lot, while The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig shot 51% from the field and 34% from the parking lot. Frankfurt lost the rebounding 28-26, but did a great job not sustaining a single turnover in the fourth quarter as they finished with a reasonable 12 turnovers while Braunschweig had 16. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners finish 2009 with a record of 11-6 and in second place. The team has displayed a controlled and aggressive defense this season, proved that they can put up points on the board, but their most valuable asset is their calmness in pressure situations and their heart. What can this team reach in the second half of the season? Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine) has been around winning organizations and likes the Frankfurt team. 'Frankfurt has a different lineup, but Reese gets the team going and Jenkins is a load inside. They have many role players and they know how to run the plays. They are physical, athletic and aggressive. When a team has these three things then it is hard to beat them even if they are not playing their best basketball', warned Nate Fox (206-F/C-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Maine). 'Frankfurt is a tough team with many guys that can do a lot. When they get going, its tough to stop them', stressed John Allen. Aubrey Reese may only have been in Frankfurt a few months, but when he speaks, people listen. 'We are not playing our best basketball, but we are able to overcome mistakes. We play the right way at the right times to be able to win games. We dont know what 2010 will give us, but we have to stay focused and cant get too overconfident. It is my job to keep pushing the guys and have to take it one game at a time and hope that we will be where we want to be at the end of the season', stressed Aubrey Reese. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners now take a short break with many Americans returning home to see their families. They resume play in the famous Hessen derby against The Giessen 46ers on January 8th at 19:00

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  GREECE   


Aris bring in Ivan Paunic - by Eurobasket News
Aris signed until the end of the season Ivan Paunic (194-G-87, agency: Beo Basket). The Greek team parted ways with Juan Dixon (191-G-78, college: Maryland) and needed to fill in the available spot. They opted for the 22-year-old Serbian. Ivan Paunic tipped off the season in Belgium. He averaged 10.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game for Oostende. Ivan Paunic participated at the World University Games this year. He tallied 8.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game helping the Serbian team to earn the title in Belgrade. Ivan Paunic was the member of the National team at the 2009 EuroBasket.


Five Head coaches dismissed before the end of 2009 - by Chris Mammides
In A1 league
Coach Kostas Pilafidis is officially dissmissed from Kavala Panorama after the surprising hme deft from the team of Stergios Koufos , Iysiakos. Kostas Pilafidis remain with the Kavala team for a bit more than oe hear, he is considered to be the architect of the specific team but due to the negative results this seazon the management decided to replace him with Vangelis Alexandris who will officially coach hi first game as a Kavala Panorama Coach the 3rd of January 2010! The American player Alexander is also history for the team of Kavala.
Vangelis Agelou is the second coach who will not end the 2009 with the team of Trikala as he decided to leave the team, the two parties split ways after the Halkida born Head coach decided that some issues can not help him to continue his career in the team that he 'saved' to reamin in the A1, during last seazon
In A2 league
Costas Sorotos is officialy the head coach of Amyntas as the team dismiss the head coach Vangelis Vlahos
OFI Irakleio dismissed Giorgos Vovoras and replaced him with the ex head coach of Amyntas, Vangelis Vlahos
Vasilsi Fragias is the new head coach of PAgrati who replaced the head coach liogas

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  HUNGARY   


DEKE signed Marcel Jones - by Tamas Deri
The management of DEKE signed Marcel Jones (203-F-85, college: Oregon St.) with a 10-days-tryout period for the rest of the season. The american small forward graduated on the University of Oregon State (PAC 10) in 2008 and was also an NBA draft candidate after his junior season, when he averaged 15.3ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg in a very strong conference. However, he decided to go back to the school and signed his first professional deal after his graduation with McDonalds Manawatu Jets in New Zealand. He played 16 games for the team in 2009 and was the best player of his team with 27.3ppg, 9.8rpg, 1.6apg, 1.6spg. In August 2009 he signed with Phoenix Hagen in Germany, but had to leave the team before the season started. He moved to Finland and helped Karhu in 7 games with 17.9 points and 8.3 rebounds. Before moving to Hungary he played also one game with Honka. In November he signed with Falco KC Szombathely and played 5 games for the team averaging 9.0 points and 4.0 rebounds in only 18.2 minutes on the court!

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  ISRAEL   


Dorsman takes over Holon's bench once again - by Yarone Arbel
Miki Dorsman (agency: Gross Zeev ISA) returns to Hapoel Holon as the new head coach of the reigning cup holder. Dorsman was the owner and coach of the team who three league titles in a row - the first two in the National League and the last in 2008 behind a buzzer-beater Malik Dixon shot over Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv in a historical shocking upset. Following that season Dorsman left both chairs, but Holon continued to win titles despite a huge cut in the budget, under coach Danny Franco. Half way through the previous season Dorsman took over Maccabi Rishon Lezion's bench but left as quickly as arrived. This season another major cut has been made in Holon's budget, while Coach Amir Uzi earned the prestigious title. Under him Holon reached just a single win in nine BSL weeks, good enough for the one before last spot in the standings. Today Uzi got his release letter and Dorsman took charge of the bench boss, this time not wearing the owners hat as well. His assistant will be Avner Yaor , who spent time in the BSL as head coach in the past, and was the assistant coach under Sharon Drucker in the 2004 ULEB Cup winner Hapoel Jerusalem, and later in Russian side Ural Great.

Adi Pereg (186-G-79) also left Holon today and will join Maccabi Ashdod of the national league.

National team coaches appointed - by Yarone Arbel
The Israeli basketball federation confirmed the main spots in the national teams.

Arik Shivek (agency: Avi Zilberman ) will take over the senior national team after Zvi Sherf (agency: Arik Krayn Services ) stepped down. Shivek is coaching in the last years in Belgium and Holland and in 2004 led the U20 national team to silver medal in the European Championship. He was assistant coach of Sherf in the previous years in the senior national team, and will try to keep the team's spot in EuroBasket through the qualification games the upcoming summer.

Yakov Gino (agency: Arik Krayn Services ) returns as the head coach of the U20 national team, a team he has led to the 2005 European Championship semi-finals where he lost to Lithuania by a single bucket. Gino has also been assistant coach to Shivek in the 2004 edition of the U20, and served as assistant coach to Pini Gershon in the Euroleague champion Maccabi Tel Aviv team of 2005. Currently he's coaching in Ironi Nahariya. This summer he will need to bring Israel back to Division B after the team dropped the last summer.

Danny Franco (agency: Avi Zilberman ) will remain with the U18 national team despite dropping with the team to the Division B games the past summer. He will try to carry the team back to Division A when Israel will host this upcoming summer the games.


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  ITALY   


Miro Radici sign deal with Alex Bougaieff - by Eurobasket News
Miro Radici Vigevano add Alex Bougaieff (208-C-77) to the roster. The 32-year-old centre spent the previous season in Umana Reyer Venezia. The Canadian-French player averaged 7.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game in LegaDue. Alex Bougaieff was the member of the Canadian National Team back in 1999/2000 season. The centre also played for the Canadian University National Team. Alex Bougaieff used to play for Laurerana Biella, Casale Monferrato, Indesit Fabiano in Italy as well as Keravnos in Cyprus and Rouen in France.


Casale Monferrato tab Mats Levin - by Eurobasket News
Casale Monferrato ensured the strengthening of the squad just at the end of the year. They agreed on terms of contract with Mats Levin (188-G-77). The Swedish 32-year-old guard started the season in Sundsvall. He tallied 11.2 points, 5.8 assists and 2.7 rebounds per game for the Dragons. Mats Levin is not new to Italy. He used to play for Castelmaggiore, Oregon Cantu, Capo dOrlando, Ticino, Cimberio Novara and Edimes Pavia. Mats Levin also is the member of the Swedish National Team.


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  KUWAIT   


Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Al Kuwait 8-0 
 2. Al Qadsia 7-0 
 3. Al Jahraa 6-1 
 4. Al Sahel 6-1 
 5. Kazma 5-1 
 6. Al Arabi 5-3 
 7. An Nasr 3-4 
 8. Sulaibikhat 3-6 
 9. Al Tadhamon 2-7 
 10. Al Yarmook 1-6 
 11. Al Shabab 1-8 
 12. Al Salmiyah 0-10 


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  MEXICO   


Standings - LNBP
LNBP Standings
 1. Halc.Xalapa 27-6 
 2. Halc.Rojos 26-6 
 3. Halc.Cordoba 25-10 
 4. Soles 24-9 
 5. Pioneros 24-9 
 6. Toros 24-10 
 7. Lobos Grises 24-10 
 8. Lechugueros 18-16 
 9. Panteras 18-16 
 10. Bucaneros 16-17 
 11. Abejas 16-18 
 12. Angeles 16-18 
 13. Fuerza Regia 14-19 
 14. Barreteros 14-20 
 15. Potros 13-21 
 16. Huracanes 12-22 
 17. Libertadores 9-25 
 18. Indios 8-24 
 19. Cosmos 6-27 
 20. Pilares 1-31 


Stats Leaders - LNBP

Points Per Game
 John MILLSAP
  Bucaneros
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 25.1
 1. Millsap, Bucaneros25.1 
 2. Monroe, Potros24.4 
 3. Moore, Abejas24.0 
 4. Habel, Cosmos22.0 
 5. Thomas, Potros21.8 
 6. Jackson, Pilares21.7 
 7. Hickerson, Pioneros21.5 
 8. Martin, Pilares21.4 
 9. Hornsby, Huracanes21.2 
 10. Capers, Barreter.21.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mattis MCHUGH
  Abejas
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. McHugh, Abejas11.2 
 2. Long, Indios11.1 
 3. Allen, Pioneros10.8 
 4. Jackson, Angeles10.6 
 5. Berghoefer, Potros10.0 
 6. Aubry, Halc.Rojos10.0 
 7. Moss, Lechugueros9.3 
 8. Garcia, Pioneros9.2 
 9. Mills, Indios9.2 
 10. Eneas, Bucaner.8.3 
Assists Per Game
 William FUNN
  Bucaneros
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Funn, Bucaneros6.3 
 2. Stokes, Barreteros5.6 
 3. Malpica, Cosmos5.4 
 4. Osimani, Halc.Cordoba5.3 
 5. Brown, Fuerza R.5.1 
 6. Roque, Toros4.4 
 7. Hollyfield, Barre.4.3 
 8. Rivera, Halc.Rojos4.2 
 9. Beltran, Libertad.4.2 
 10. Villegas, Lechuguer.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Manuel GONZALEZ
  Libertadores
  (--)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Gonzalez, Libertad.3.1 
 2. Beltran, Libertad.2.9 
 3. Moore, Abejas2.6 
 4. Hollyfield, Barre.2.5 
 5. Lewis, Soles2.4 
 6. Gooner, Halc.Rojos2.3 
 7. Malpica, Cosmos2.3 
 8. Funn, Bucaneros2.3 
 9. Garcia Moral., Halc.X.2.1 
 10. Monroe, Potr.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Jamal JOHNSON
  Angeles
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Johnson, Angeles1.2 
 2. Millsap, Bucaneros1.1 
 3. Arceneaux, Lechugue.1.0 
 4. Moore, Abejas0.9 
 5. Jackson, Pilares0.9 
 6. Quintero, Huracanes0.8 
 7. McHugh, Abejas0.8 
 8. Hill, Halc.Rojos0.8 
 9. Thomas, Cosmos0.8 
 10. Cox, Angel.0.8 


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  NAIA   


St. Thomas routs Gold Rush in Miami Gardens Classic - by Richard
Antonio Jones (5'10''-G), the NAIA Division II scoring leader, had 26 points, nine rebounds and eight assists Wednesday to lead St. Thomas (Fla.) to a 79-61 men's basketball victory over Xavier (LA) in the Miami Gardens Classic.
Jones, a senior guard who is averaging 27.8 points, scored 13 in the first half to lead the Bobcats (4-6) to their first victory in the Fernandez Center, which opened in October. St. Thomas had lost its first two games in the facility.
Michael Harvey scored 18 points, Cordell Hadnot 11 and Devin Andrew 10 for Xavier (9-3). Harvey, who averaged 16.5 points in two games, was named to the five-player all-tournament team.
Both teams were 1-1 in the event. Saint Francis (Ind.) defeated Florida Memorial 78-71 to finish 2-0.
St. Thomas led 36-28 at halftime and held 20-point leads twice in the second half.
Xavier entered the game as the NAIA Division I leader in field-goal percentage defense (.358), but St. Thomas shot 53.2 percent from the floor. The previous best by a Xavier opponent this season had been 40.7 percent.
St. Thomas became the first Xavier opponent to score more than 67 points this season.
The Gold Rush shot 42.9 percent from the floor but cooled after shooting 50 percent in the opening half.
Also on the all-tournament team were Jones, DeJovaun Sawyer-Davis and Brad Sneary of Saint Francis and Matthew Rolle of Florida Memorial. Sawyer-Davis was the most valuable player.
Xavier's next game will be its Gulf Coast Athletic Conference opener, Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at sixth-ranked LSU-Shreveport.
source: Xavier (LA)

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  NBA   


Wednesday's games (10) review - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat - N.Orleans H. 91-95
David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) scored 6 of his 21 points in the last 55 seconds to help New Orleans hold on for a 95-91 victory over the Miami Heat after the Hornets nearly squandered a 15-point, fourth-quarter lead on Wednesday night. Chris Paul (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) scored 18 points and handed out 9 assists. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) collected 22 points and 6 assists in defeat.

Boston C. - Phoenix Suns 98-116
Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) and Channing Frye (6'11''-C/F-83, college: Arizona) scored 26 points apiece, and the Suns handed what was left of the Celtics their third straight loss, 116-98 on Wednesday night. Leandrinho Barbosa (6'3''-G-82) helped with 17 points. Eddie House (6'1''-G-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Arizona St.) top-scored in loss with 19.

LA Clippers - Portland TB 99-103
Brandon Roy had 25 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists, and the Blazers beat the Los Angeles Clippers 103-99 despite losing LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-C-85, college: Texas) to an ankle injury, tying Denver for first place in the Northwest Division. Martell Webster (6'8''-G-86) scored 15 and Jerryd Bayless (6'3''-G-88, college: Arizona) added 14 pts in this victory. Chris Kaman (7'0''-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan) collected 25 points and 9 rebounds for the Clippers.

Philadelph.76 - Sacramento K. 116-106
The 34-year-old Allen Iverson showed he still can score, getting 11 of his 20 points in the third quarter. And his presence alone was a factor as the 76ers pulled away in the final period for a 116-106 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. Louis Williams (6'3''-G-86) led the scorers with 22 and Andre Iguodala (6'6''-G-84, college: Arizona) helped with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Omri Casspi (6'9''-F/G-88, agency: Interperformances) (9 rebs) and Donte Greene (6'9''-F-88, college: Syracuse) delivered 21 points each for the Kings.

Charlotte B. - Toronto R. 103-107
Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) had 33 points and 13 rebounds, Andrea Bargnani (6'10''-F/C-85) matched his season high with 28 points, and the Toronto Raptors took advantage of 23 Charlotte turnovers to beat the Bobcats 107-103 on Wednesday night, their season-high fifth straight victory. Marco Belinelli (6'5''-G-86) helped with 13 pts. In Charlotte Bobcats, Stephen Jackson (6'8''-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC) was on fire with 30 points.

New York K. - New Jersey N. 95-104
Brook Lopez (7'0''-F/C-88, college: Stanford) had 21 points and 14 rebounds and the Nets snapped a 10-game losing streak with a 104-95 blowout of the New York Knicks on Wednesday night. Yi Jianlian (7'0''-C/F-87) top-scored in this victory with 22 points. David Lee (6'9''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida) replied with 24 points, 15 rebounds and 8 assists in loss.

Utah Jazz - Minnesota T. 107-103
Deron Williams (6'3''-G-84, college: Illinois) had 21 points and 12 assists, and the Jazz finally beat the Wolves, 107-103 on Wednesday night. Ronnie Brewer (6'7''-G-85, college: Arkansas) added 20 points and three more players had more than 10 in this victory. On the other side, Al Jefferson (6'10''-F-85) collected 21 points and 9 rebounds.

Atlanta H. - Cleveland C. 101-106
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) scored a season-high 48 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the Cavs, but the MVP would have dropped to 0-4 in games on his birthday if not for Varejao. Maurice Williams (6'1''-G-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Alabama) added 14 points and 10 assists. In the loosing squad, Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) delivered 35 points.

Memphis G. - Indiana P. 121-110
Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) drained 31 points to lead the Memphis Grizzlies over Indiana 121-110 on Wednesday night, the Pacers' eighth straight loss. Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, and Marc Gasol (7'0''-C-85, agency: Interperformances) added 21 points and 10 boards for the Grizzlies. On the other side, Roy Hibbert (7'2''-C-86, college: Georgetown) registered double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds. Luther Head (6'3''-G-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) scored 30 pts.

Milwaukee B. - Orlando M. 92-117
Vince Carter (6'5''-G-77, college: N.Carolina) overcame the hard collision to score 25 points, rallying the Magic for a 117-92 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night. Dwight Howard (6'10''-F-85) had 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Jason Williams (6'1''-G-75, college: Florida) added 16 pts. In defeat, Brandon Jennings (6'0''-G-89) scored 20 points.


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  POLAND   


Prokom land Ratko Varda - by Eurobasket News
Prokom found the replacement for Pape Sow (208-F-81, college: Cal.St. Fullerton). They signed a one-month deal with Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79). The 30-year-old centre started the previous season in Zalgiris Kaunas. He averaged 2.5 points and 2.5 boards per Euroleague appearance. In LKL Ratko Varda delivered 19.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists. Later he moved to Khimky in Russia. Varda tallied 7.8 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in Superleague. In EuroCup the centre notched 6.7 points and 2.2 boards.


Mosir Krosno add Tomasz Pisarczyk - by Eurobasket News
Mosir Krosno strengthened the roster with addition of Tomasz Pisarczyk (205-F-85). The 24-year-old forward started the season in LKS Lodz. He averaged 7.7 points, 6.3 boards and 0.9 assists per game in 1Liga. Last year the forward playef for Sokol Lancut. There Tomasz Pisarczyk tallied 13.0 points, 7.4 boards and 2.4 blocks per appearance.


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


PR Player's stats - by Rafael Otero
This is up to date stats of PR profesional players playing all around the world:

1. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: Florida Intern.) (Miami Heat NBA)= PTS- 5.1 AST- 2.3 FG%- 45.1% 3pt%-42.9% (25 Assist and 1 TO since becoming starting PG)

2. Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) (Dallas Mavericks NBA)= PTS- 10.1 REB- 2.3 AST- 4.0 FG%- 44.9% 3pt%-42.7% TO- 1.6

3. Angel Vasallo (196-F-86, college: Virginia Tech) (Paris Levallois-France)= PTS- 19.8 REB- 5.1 FG%- 56% 3pt%-44.6% FT%- 93.6%

4. David Huertas (196-G-87, college: Mississippi) (Fos Ouest, France Div 2)= PTS- 15.5 REB- 3.2 FG%- 48.6% 3pt%-40.9% FT%- 92.9%






5. Ramos Peter John (222-C-85) (Zheijang Lions- China) PTS- 16.6 REB- 13.6 FG%- 63.8% BLK- 1.2





6. Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, college: Miami, OH) (Artland Dragons-Germany) PTS- 11.4 REB- 3.6 FG%- 59.8% 3pt%-35.3%





7. Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, college: Holy Cross) (NY Phantoms-Germany) PTS- 7.3 REB- 4.3 AST- 6.4 STL- 1.6




8. Angel Figueroa (196-G/F-81, college: Dowling) (Lobos Grises Durango-Mexico) PTS- 15.9. REB- 6.4 STL- 1.3 FG%- 53.7%


9. Ricky Sanchez (212-C/F-87) (Halcones Rojos Veracruz-Mexico) PTS- 9.5 REB- 3.7 FG%- 39% 3pt%-33.9%


10. Ramon Clemente (198-F-85, college: Wichita St.) (Maccabi Ashod-Israel Div 2) PTS- 20.9 REB- 11.7 FG%- 61.3% BLK- 1.1 STL- 1.8


11. Alex Galindo (198-F-85, college: Florida Intern.) (Cader- Uruguay) PTS- 28.7 REB- 5.1 FG%- 56% 3pt%-44.6% FT%- 93.6%


12. Manuel Narvaez (211-C-81, college: S.Nazarene) (Lobos Grises Durango-Mexico) PTS- 5.7 REB- 6.2 FG%- 51%


13. Carlos Rivera (187-G-83, college: Hofstra) PTS- 14.2 REB- 2.4 AST- 4.2 STL- 1.2 3pt%-35.7%


14. Wilfredo Pagan (184-G-76,) (Toros de Nuevo Laredo-Mexico) PTS- 11.6 REB- 3.5 AST- 4.4 STL- 1.2 3pt%-37%


15. Ricardo Melendez (180-G-83) (Pioneros de Quintana-Mexico) PTS- 14.6 AST- 1.4 3pt%-47.4%


15. Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, college: N.Mexico) (Efes Pilsen-Turkey, Playing in Euroleague only) PTS- 6.3 REB- 3.1 FG%- 77.3% BLK- 0.9





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


Andrei Capusan moves to Rovinari - by Eurobasket News
Andrei Capusan (201-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: Lafayette) changed Otopeni for Rovinari. The 26-year-old forward started the fourth straight season with Otopeni this year. He averaged 15.2 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game. Andrei Capusan also played for the Romanian National Team in European Championship in Division B. Last year Andrei Capusan tallied 11.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.0 steals per appearance for Otopeni.


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  SERBIA   


Aris lands Ivan Paunic - by Zoran Popovic
Young guard of Serbian National team and former player of Base Oostende, Ivan Paunic (194-G-87, agency: Beo Basket), signs contract with Aris Thessaloniki until the end of season. Paunic started this season in Belgium and for Base Oostende on 10 games average scored 10.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.2 steals per game. In career Paunic played for Partizan, Avala Ada, Mornar Bar, Vojvodina Srbijagas and Base Oostende. Ivan Paunic was member of Serbia U18, U20 and University National teams and with Serbian National team won silver medal on European Championship in Poland.

Milosevic moves to Bosna - by Zoran Popovic
Milan Milosevic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket), former Crvena Zvezda player, officially is member of KK Bosna Skoda Sarajevo. Milosevic came in Crvena Zvezda last season, but this season had chance to play only on five games in Adriatic league with average scored 4.4 points, 2.2 rebounds per game. Milosevic started career in Hercegovac Bileca where he played two seasons. In season, 2005-2006 Milosevic moved to Sloboda Dita and spent their three seasons. Milan Milosevic was member of Bosnia and Herzegovina National team during the qualifications for European Championship.

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


Fitch MVP of Round 15 - by Paul Nilsen
The return to form of Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) co-incided with Fuenlabrada finally winning a game after a rotten losing streak. Fitch scored a massive valutation of 42 in the crucial 87-83 win at Valladolid. Fitch harvested a stunning 33 points including a perfect five from five triples as well as 7 rebounds and 6 assists Fitch has already won the MVP award a couple of times earlier in the season when he was the stand out player in the league.

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  SWEDEN   


Casale Monferrato tab Mats Levin - by Eurobasket News
Casale Monferrato ensured the strengthening of the squad just at the end of the year. They agreed on terms of contract with Mats Levin (188-G-77). The Swedish 32-year-old guard started the season in Sundsvall. He tallied 11.2 points, 5.8 assists and 2.7 rebounds per game for the Dragons. Mats Levin is not new to Italy. He used to play for Castelmaggiore, Oregon Cantu, Capo dOrlando, Ticino, Cimberio Novara and Edimes Pavia. Mats Levin also is the member of the Swedish National Team.


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Brown comes up big - by David Edole
WILDWOOD - The Atlantic Christian High School boys basketball team found itself down 12 points to the No. 9 team in the country Wednesday night.

But the Cougars could get no closer.

St. Benedict's Prep beat Atlantic Christian 84-52 in a showcase game at the Boardwalk Basketball Classic. USA Today ranks St. Benedict's No. 9 in the country.

'This was a perspective game for us,' Atlantic Christian coach Tom Piotrowski said. 'You find out where you are as a team and where you are as a basketball player.'

St. Benedict's backcourt of Division I college prospects Myck Kabongo and Aaron Brown (193-G-92) proved to be too much for the Cougars. Kabongo, a junior who has already committed to Texas, scored 25 points, grabbed nine rebounds and had seven assists. Brown, a senior headed to Temple, sank 8-of-10 from the field and scored 20 points.

But Atlantic Christian junior guard Deshon Minnis was every bit as impressive as those two. Minnis was able to penetrate through St. Benedict's defense to create shots for himself and teammates. He sank 3-of-6 3-point attempts and finished with 21 points, four assists and four steals.

'It was a challenge,' Minnis said. 'I wanted to show I'm on their level. I wanted to show I'm an elite player, too.'

This is Minnis' first year at Atlantic Christian. He comes from Philadelphia and played for South Philadelphia High School last season. Now, he lives i•Atlantic City.

'I think he's going to get a lot of fans in south Jersey pretty quickly,' Piotrowski said.

A Minnis 3-pointer with 7 minutes, 15 seconds left in the fourth quarter cut St. Benedict's lead to 57-45. But the Gray Bees immediately responded with a 7-1 run to push the lead to 19. Kabonga and Brown combined for five of those seven points.

St. Benedict's wore down Atlantic Christian down. Eight Gray Bees played more than 25 minutes, while only five Atlantic Christian players topped that mark.

'We're not that deep,' Piotrowski said.

Atlantic Christian also got a solid effort from 6-foot-11 junior Luke Piotrowski, the coach's son, who scored 15 points and grabbed six rebounds.

Overall, the experience was a positive one for Atlantic Christian, which is emerging as a team that can compete with anybody in southern New Jersey. Wednesday night's game increased the program's exposure. There were many fans in the Wildwoods Convention Center who had never seen the Cougars play before. Tom Piotrowski admitted his team was a bit jittery.

'It's tough. You're competing against the YouTube videos and the legend (at first),' Tom Piotrowski said. 'I thought we relaxed and played better as the game went.'

Atlantic Christian 14 10 15 13-51

St. Benedict's Prep 24 20 14 27-84

AC-Puhalski 2 0-0 6, Piotrowski 4 5-6 15, Deshon Minnis 8 2-3 21, Jalen Armstead 1 1-6 3, Chandler 2 0-0 5, Morgenweck 1 0-0 2. Totals-8 8-15 51.

SB-Kabongo 7 6-8 21, Kambola 3 0-2 6, Birula 4 2-3 11, Poole 2 2-2 6, Brown 7 3-4 18, Moore 1 0-0 2, Munford 3 2-2 8, Ellis 1 2-2 5, Johnson 1 3-4 5. Totals-29 20-27 84.

3-Pointers-Puhalski (2), Piotrowski (2), Minnis (3), Chandler AC; Kabongo, Birula, Brown SB.
Records-Atlantic Christian 11-4; St. Benedict's 7-1.
Michael McGarry

Christmas in December - by David Edole

CHESTER, Pa.-- Rakeem Christmas (206-C/F) is focused on adjusting to changes this season instead of making a decision on where to play college basketball.

So far, thats working out well for the 6-foot-9, 230-lb. center/power forward from Philadelphia, one of the most highly sought after players in the Class of 2011.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia announced in early October that Philadelphia Catholic League power North Catholic would close after this year. Christmas averaged 10.2 points as a sophomore.

Christmas made a proactive move in the offseason when he transferred to Academy of the New Church after a busy summer playing AAU basketball.

Its been kinda hard, Christmas said. The academics have been more than I expected. We do a lot more work.

On Monday at the Jameer Nelson/Pete Nelson Scholastic Play-by-Play Classic, Christmas scored ten points and grabbed five rebounds in a 53-41 loss to defending AAAA state-champion Penn Wood (4-3) at Widener Universitys Schwartz Athletic Center.

Christmas was in foul trouble for most of the game, picking up two fouls in the first quarter and a third five seconds after being inserted in the second quarter. He was limited to 12 minutes of play in the game.

They get me the ball more here, Christmas said. They expect me to do more things here. At my other school they pretty much let me do whatever I wanted, they just wanted me to score.

Christmas has not stopped scoring at ANC, averaging 12.5 points this season for coach Kevin Givens Lions.

The first thing we talked about was academics, and hes transitioned well, Givens said. He brings us a post presence to our basketball team, a lot of defense and shot-blocking. He brings some physical toughness in the paint.

Givens sees room for improvement in Christmas.

Were going to work on his perimeter play, in the ten to 15 feet range, and some of his low-post stuff as well, Givens said.

Any improvement to Christmas defensive and post play will be part of the learning curve that Christmas hopes to continue in college.

Earlier this month, Christmas announced that Florida, Florida International, Georgetown, Oklahoma and Texas were his final list of college choices.

I like Florida has put a lot of big men into the (NBA), they do a lot to prepare you for the (NBA), and they win championships, Christmas said.

I also like Florida because of the weather, Christmas said on a day where temperatures dropped as low as 28 F.

Christmas is not in any hurry to choose where he will play in college, instead choosing to focus on school and the current season.

I will probably make my decision next year after school ends, Christmas said. Im probably taking my official visit next year.

Florida has already received verbal commitments for the 2011 signing class from a pair of 63 shooting guards, Bradley Beal and Austin Rivers. Christmas said he speaks with both players, mostly focusing the conversations on basketball.

Christmas has the attention of the Gators coaches, maintaining a relationship at the top.

I pretty much talk to coach Donovan at Florida, Christmas said. They tell me Ive been getting better. They just want me to go out and play hard.

When it comes to recruiting, Christmas gets help from his aunt and legal guardian, Amira Hamid, so he can avoid distractions. Hamid and Christmas are both natives of St. Croix, Virgin Islands. Christmas joined Hamid in Philadelphia, where she attended college.

Their relationship has helped Christmas to remain grounded and humble. Coupled with his defensive presence, broad shoulders and body frame that projects to hold more muscle, Christmas will draw comparisons to former Gators star and current Atlanta Hawks power forward Al Horford, a Dominican Republic native.

The Gators would happily welcome another budding frontcourt player with roots in the Caribbean.
By Tim Casey

*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Sayago will play the LUB second stage - by Hector Lopez
Sayago defeated Anastasia 110-102 to qualify for the Uruguayan League Second Stage to begin January 4th, with the best 10 teams: Defensor Sporting, Malvin, Union Atletica, Atenas, Cordon, Bigua, Trouville, Olimpia and Hebarica. The ten teams will play a round robin tournament and 8 of them will advance to quarter finals. Sayago and Anastasia had finished tied for the 10th spot.
Sayago 110 - John Huggins (188-G-82, college: Amer.Internat.) 45 points, including 6 three points shots, 7 rebounds and 8 assists, 'Pop' Thornton (201-F-74, college: W.Kentucky) 43 points 2 blocks 13 rebounds 5 assists.
Anastasia 102 - Marcus Elliott (191-G-84, college: Louisiana Tech) 44 points 2 rebounds 1 block 4 assists, playing all the game. Jeffrey Simpson (204-C-83, agency: Liman Sports, college: N.Texas) 13 points and 4 rebounds, during 22 minutes.

*****************************************************
  USBA   


USBA Set For 2010 Basketball Season, Tip off April 7, 2010 - by USBA Media
Atlanta, Ga. (December 31, 2009)----The United States Basketball Association (USBA) is poised for its inaugural season. Opening day is scheduled for April 7, 2010. The league will field 18 teams housed in 3 divisions. Permanente home gymnasiums of each individual team are in the process of being completed. 'Barring any unforeseen challenges, we will tip off on Wednesday night, April 7, 2010, we have agreements in place to use gymnasium for all of our teams already, the colleges and universities that we planned to occupy this year, understood the challenges we faced in 2009 and they graciously permitted the league to renew their commitment to play at their facilities', said USBA president and C.E.O Duane Allen Jenkins. We have arenas set in each city, we will disclose the locations in the very near future.

The 2010 regular season will begin on April 7, 2010 and end on July 3, 2010. There is a mid season All Star Classic Game slated for May 22nd and May 23rd, 2010. The Championship game is scheduled for July 11, 2010. Both the All Star game and the Championship game will be held in Atlanta, Georgia. The top four teams in each division will secure playoff positions. The Willie Joe Hunter Memorial Championship Trophy will be awarded to the top team.

The league will continue its partnership with churches, civic groups and charitable organizations in each individual team city. The USBA announced its continuation of their support to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Feeding America and the USMC Toys for Tots. The league is also extending a very special invitation to children in foster care each city and children housed in juvenile detention centers. The league has authorized each team to conduct educational contest between clubs to select children to be official ball girls and boys.' We'll invite all groups who help children to contact the league and well issue complimentary tickets to these groups to our home games. The selected children to be the ball kids will receive $25.00 apiece per game for their services', said Jenkins.

The league has three divisions, the Atlantic, the Appalachian and the Southern. The divisions make up the Southeastern Conference. 'With the economy stabilizing, its full steam ahead', said USBA vice president of basketball operations, Kenneth Green. This is a prime opportunity for us to activate the league. 'We'll have an opportunity to get to know our fans and supporters in each city. We want our fans to be able to have ample access to the coaches and players', said Green. A National Player Tryout Combine is scheduled for March 6, 2010. Individual tryouts for each team will be held on March 13th and 20th, 2010 in each team city.

The leagues season ticket packages will be available beginning January 1, 2010. The season ticket promotion is called the 2010 USBA Season Ticket Extravaganza, the promotion will be made available to each city. This season ticket promotion is a special event for the fans and is sponsored by the advertisers and sponsors of the USBA. The league made 1200 single season tickets available in each city for this promotion. 'This collaborated effort includes the USBA, the USBA Youth Outreach, Inc and many of the leagues partners, sponsors and advertisers', said Jenkins.

The league has set the price of $105.00 per season ticket. Each season ticket comes with admission to all fifteen home games and fifteen free single game tickets; this also includes admittance to all home playoff games. As a bonus, fans receive priority seating, complimentary concessions, a free game day program and a 24-inch x 36-inch full color poster with the basketball team or the dance team. (The total number of admittance per season ticket is 30, which breaks down to $3.50 per admittance). 'We designed the USBA basketball games to be family friendly, our promotions, our entertainment and our prices will fit right into anyones budget', said Jenkins

According to the league, each season ticket holder will be automatically included in a raffle sponsored by the USBA Youth Outreach, Inc. ' We're very excited about this promotion. Not only do fans get a chance to see high quality basketball at affordable prices, but also there is the chance to win a new car, a trip to see an NBA game and to go on a Disney World vacation'.

The prize list is as follows:

* Grand Prize: 2010 Lincoln Mercury Grand Marquis LS
(one automobile and a $40.00 Quik Trip, BP, RaceTrac or local fuel company weekly gas card for one year, will be given away in each USBA team city, 18 total league wide),

* 2nd Prize: Disney World Family Vacation
(Family of four, rt airfare on Delta Airlines, transfers to and from the airport, daily Disney World Park passes, meals and lodging at a Disney World theme park hotel included, two given away in each USBA team city, 36 total league wide),

* 3rd prize: The NBA Extravaganza
( Trip for two to an NBA game, round trip airfare on Delta Airlines, overnight stay at Marriott Hotel, one day car rental from Enterprise, dinner for two at Outback Steak House and breakfast for two at International House of Pancakes, two given away in each USBA team city, 36 total league wide.)

* 4th Prize: The Trek Bicycle Explosion
(Six mens, six womens, six boys and six girls ten speed bicycles, 24 given away at each USBA team city, 432 total league wide)

* 5th Prize: The Outback Steak House Family Feast
(A $60.00 gift card, 25 given away in each USBA team city, 450 total league wide)

* 6th Prize: Russell Athletic Team Polo Shirts
(25 shirts will be given away in each USBA team city, 450 total league wide)

The Grand prize drawing for this promotion will be held at halftime of the teams home season opener, the drawings for the other prizes will be held at a special pre-game show. 'As far as we know, this is the biggest and most extravagant season ticket promotion in the history of minor league sports'. said Jenkins. Fans can visit our website at www.usbaball.com for rules and disclaimers about the raffle and the United States Basketball Association. We plan to begin our first season with a bang. All of our games will be geared toward top notched basketball competition, family fun and entertainment surrounded in a faith based environment, our goal is to offer each community a great experience proclaimed, Mr. Jenkins. For more detailed information, call or email the USBA league office at (678) 966-9993 or usba@usbaball.com . For further information on the USBA go to www.usbaball.com/seasonticketextravaganza .

2010 USBA Season Ticket Extravaganza Rules and Disclaimer:
Purchase of a season ticket to any 2010 USBA team necessary to be included in the raffle drawing. The USBA Youth Outreach, Inc., is the sponsor of this promotion. This promotion is open to all residents of Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Kentucky, West Virginia, Mississippi, North Carolina and the District of Columbia who purchase a season ticket during this promotion. This promotion ends April 6, 2010 at midnight Eastern Daylight Time. USBA employees, family member of USBA employees, team members, Season Ticket Extravaganza sponsors, their employees and their families are ineligible to participate in this promotion. Participants must be at least 18 years old to participate in this promotion. One entry in raffle per season ticket purchased. No other restrictions apply. No substitution of prizes. Prizes are not refundable or transferable. Prize winners are responsible for all taxes and /or gratuity associated with prizes won in this promotion. Odds of winning any prize in this promotion will be determined in direct relation of the number of season tickets sold during this promotion. (Example: 1200 season tickets sold per USBA team season, Grand Prize winning odds are 1200 to 1, 2nd prize winning odds are 600 to 1, 3rd Prize winning odds are 600 to 1, 4th Prize winning odds are 50 to 1, each, 5th prize winning odds are 48 to 1, 6th Prize winning odds are 48 to 1. The USBA has set aside 1200 season tickets per USBA team city to be sold, a total 21,600 league wide. Odds of winning a prize in this promotion are derived on a per city basis only. If the same individual purchases two season tickets for the 2010 basketball season and before April 5, 2010 the odds will increase to give the ticket holder double the chance of winning a prize. This promotion is a USBA Youth Outreach sponsored event. The USBA Youth Outreach, Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) not for Profit Company. Single ticket purchases are not included in this promotion. 2nd and 3rd Prizewinners must make travel reservation through the USBA. Travel blackout periods may effect certain travel dates. All NBA games must be east of the Mississippi River and in the Continental United States. Grand prizewinners will have a choice of color. There is no time limit for any of the travel prizes, gift card or any other prize in this promotion. Promotion is void where prohibited by law.




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Women News

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE - Women  


Mazic moves to Greece, Merkur inks Sarenac, Vojvodina with new coach - by Zeljko Zule
Mirna Mazic (188-F-85, college: Richmond) has left Medvescak to join Greek team Esperides Ravenna. She averaging 37.3 minutes, 20.4 points (2P 54%, 3P 27%, FT 46%), 9.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.4 steals in 11 games of IBWL League and and 38.5 minutes, 18.8 points (2P 61%, FT 66%), 11.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.5 blocks in 6 games of FIBA EuroCup.
Merkur Celje inked former WNBA player Rankica Sarenac (202-C-74) for rest of the season. She returned to Slovenia after 11 years. Sarenac played one season for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA and in Europe she played for Bosna, Jezica, Caja Rural de Canarias, Ros Casares Valencia,Tarbes, Gambrinus, Coconuda Maddaloni, Lotos Gdynia and last season she started in Rivas Ecopolis and the moved to USO Mondeville. She averaged 14.9 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 11 gamed of French League and 12.0 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 3 games for FIBA EuroCup as a player of Mondeville.
Vojvodina have parted ways with coach Zoran Trivan and replaced him with sports director Zoran Mirkovic.


*****************************************************
  FINLAND - Women  


Aanekosken Huima sign Lavesa Glover - by Eurobasket
Aanekosken Huima signed 23-year old American center Lavesa Glover (191-C-86, college: Wisc.-Green Bay). Glover played most recently at University of Wisconsin - Green Bay (NCAA) in the U.S. It will be his first year in professional basketball. While playing 33 games in her senior year for Wisc.-Green Bay her stats were: 11.1ppg and 4.1rpg.
Glover is one of the top players at Wisc.-Green Bay; some of her many awards:

Horizon League Regular Season Runner-Up -06
Horizon League Tournament Semifinals -06, 08
Horizon League Regular Season Champion -07, 08, 09
Horizon League Tournament Winner -07, 09
All-Horizon League 2nd Team -08
By Eurobasket Data Center


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


Attendance was up across the board - by Raul Colon
As we said goodbye to 2009 is time to take a short look back at what many experts are calling the most successful women basketball season on record. Jam packed courts serve notice that this once down-and-out game is BACK!

This has been the most successful year in record, said Jose Rosas, the former head of the WSBL and the man many credit with brining back the women game after almost a decade of declining viewer ship. Accordingly to WSBL statistics, attendance for the regular season jumped almost 73 percent above the levels experimented last year. Postseason numbers are even more impressive. Accordingly to league officials, the first playoff round posted an 86 increase in attendance.

More impressive still are the number of fans who flocked the courts of Morovis, San Juan, Carolina and even Mayaguez (playing at Hormigueros) during the semifinal round. Im so exiting. This was the most viewed semifinal round since 1998. Even the Pedrin Zorrilla was full for a team that trailed 0-3. This is an energetic time for us, added Rosas.

To see over 4,500 fans in our home court has us very excited about 2010, said a boastful Pedro Marrero, Morovis franchise holder. The series between Morovis and Carolina drew an estimated 12,500 fans, easily eclipsing last year total and setting a new benchmark for a now booming league.


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  SLOVENIA - Women  


Merkur Celje adds Rankica Sarenac - by Zeljko Zule
Merkur Celje inked former WNBA player Rankica Sarenac (202-C-74) (202-C-74) for rest of the season. She returned to Slovenia after 11 years. Sarenac played one season for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA and in Europe she played for Bosna, Jezica, Caja Rural de Canarias, Ros Casares Valencia,Tarbes, Gambrinus, Coconuda Maddaloni, Lotos Gdynia and last season she started in Rivas Ecopolis and the moved to USO Mondeville. She averaged 14.9 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 11 gamed of French League and 12.0 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 3 games for FIBA EuroCup as a player of Mondeville.

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  SWEDEN - Women  


Standings - Damligan
Damligan Standings
 1. Telge 11-1 
 2. Solna Vikings 9-2 
 3. 08 8-3 
 4. Lulea BBK 8-4 
 5. Sundsvall 7-4 
 6. Norrkoping 7-5 
 7. Marbo Basket 5-7 
 8. Eos 4-7 
 9. Sallen 4-7 
 10. Umea 3-8 
 11. Visby 2-10 
 12. Brahe 1-11 


*****************************************************
  UKRAINE - Women  


Pysmennyk is the top-scorer of the outgoing year - by Eurobasket News
Oxana Pysmennyk (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) is the top-scorer of the outgoing year as she averages wit 21.4 points per game. She is the real leader of BC Frankivsk that is however 2-6 in the League. BC Frankivsk won over Politeh Basket 86:68 in the last game. Oxana Pysmennyk paced all the winners with 26 points, while Maryana Komarniak and Palyanichko posted 20 each. Olga Krasnikova (182-F-84) from Kozachka jumped to the second place averaging now 20.5 points per game. Her Kozachka became the first team to reach sixth win in the league. On Sunday the team improved to 6-1 record beating Donbas 93:75. The team from Zaporozhye started with 25-18 in the opening quarter, however lost the second period 17-23. Due to both victories in the latest periods Kozachka reached the necessary result. Olga Krasnikova top-scored for the winners with 35 points. Grishina from Luganski Lastivki is third with 20.3 points per game.
Olena Stashuk from Politeh is the top-Rebounder of the outgoing year. She exploded with 30 points and 20 rebounds in her latest game.Oxana Pysmennyk and Palyanichka share the second with 8.6 rebounds per game.
Oxana Pysmennyk is also on top of the Assists section. She averages 5.7 assists per game. Mariya Dubas (182-G-84) is second with 4.6 and Panchenko is third with 4.1

Stats Leaders
Higher League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Pysmennyk Fran 21.4
2 Krasnikova Koz 20.5
3 Grishina Lugansk 20.3
4 Pinchuk Orlan 19.4
5 Payne Dynamo 19.4
Rebounds Per Game
1 Stashuk Politeh 10.8
2 Pysmennyk Fran 8.6
3 Palyanichka Fran 8.6
4 Melentyeva Don 8.4
5 Grishina Lugansk 8.3
Assists Per Game
1 Pysmennyk Fran 5.7
2 Dubas Politeh 4.6
3 Panchenko Koz 4.1
4 Pinchuk Orlan 4.0
5 Payne Dynamo 3.8