EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 12/16/2010

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Vedran Princ set for surgery, faces month on sidelines - by Eurobasket News
Bad news for Cedevitas Vedran Princ (192-G-82). According to the reports from Croatian media, experienced guard will have to undergo groin surgery. He is facing around a month on the sidelines and will not be able to help his team in the upcoming matches in EuroChallenge and Adriatic League.
Vedran Princ started his career with Zrinski Soko Mostar before moving to Feal Siroki Brijeg in 2002. With Siroki he has won numerous trophies including 3 League titles and 2 national cups. After 5 seasons with Siroki, where he became a valuable role player, Princ was signed by Cibona in 2007. In his first year with the club, he appeared in 16 League games, averaging 7.0 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting 56.0% from the field. Following season Princ averaged 2.3 points in 24 Adriatic league games, while in Croatian League he played in 15 games and posted averages of 5.8 points 1.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists while converting 85.7% of his 2 point attempts. Princ demonstrated moments of brilliance last season, helping his team win the National Cup. With Cibona he has also won National Title last season after his team was better than Zadar in Playoff finals. Before leaving Cibona, Princ has appeared in 13 Adriatic league games and has posted averages of 2.5 points. In Euroleague, he has played in 8 games and has averaged 3.7 points and 1.0 rebound. In March of 2010, Princ moved to Latvia where he played for Ventspils. At the start of this season he signed with Cedevita.

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  ASEAN LEAGUE   


Miller's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
31-year old center Nakiea Miller (205-C-79) put on an amazing game in the last round for Westsports KL Dragons and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 11.
He had a double-double of 24 points and 22 rebounds, while his team crushed Thailand S. (#1, 8-3) with 22-point margin 79-57. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. KL Dragons maintains the 3rd position in ASEAN League . They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. KL Dragons will need more victories to improve their 7-5 record. In the team's last game Miller had a remarkable 60.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be KL Dragons' top player in his first season with the team. Iona College graduate has very impressive stats this year. Miller. Miller is in league's top in points (3rd best: 21.3ppg) and averages solid 54.1% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Marcus Morrison (198-G/F-84) of Satria Muda Britama Jakarta. He is American swingman in his first season at Satria Muda. In the last game Morrison recorded impressive double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Satria Muda cruised to a 83-73 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Singapore S. (#4, 5-6). This victory allowed Satria Muda to leave bottom place moving a little bit up to 5th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-8 record. Morrison is a newcomer at Satria Muda and quickly became the team's new leader. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.4ppg (#1). He also registered 9.0 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to center Kyle Jeffers (206-C-85) of Singapore Slingers (#4). Jeffers scored 13 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Jeffers' great performance Singapore Slingers lost 73-83 to slightly lower-ranked Satria Muda (#5, 4-8). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Singapore Slingers ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 6 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Jeffers could help Singapore Slingers to bring them higher in the standings. Jeffers has a great season in ASEAN League. After 10 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 13.5rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Mario Wuysang (177-G-79) of Satria Muda - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Jason Dixon (205-C-73) of Thailand Slammers - 15 points and 15 rebounds
6. Steve Thomas (203-F-81) of Philip.Patriots - 10 points and 15 rebounds
7. Marlon Legaspi (196-F) of Satria Muda - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Rasheim Wright (194-G-81) of Philip.Patriots - 21 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Nakiea Miller (205-C-79) of KL Dragons - 19 points and 9 rebounds
10. Alexander Hartman (201-F-85) of KL Dragons - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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  AUSTRIA   


Austrian A Bundesliga round 14 best performance: Moritz Lanegger - by Eurobasket News
International guard Moritz Lanegger (188-G-90, agency: Interperformances) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Kapfenberg Bulls, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
The 20-year old player was the main contributor (22 points, five rebounds and nine assists) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Worthersee (#12, 1-13) with 29-point margin 95-66. Kapfenberg maintains the 3rd position in Austrian A Bundesliga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Kapfenberg will need more victories to improve their 10-4 record. In the team's last game Lanegger had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range. He has many years of experience at Kapfenberg, through which he has constantly improved. Moritz Lanegger has solid league stats. He is in league's top in assists (6th best: 4.4apg).

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old Canadian Russell Hicks (213-C-85) of BC Vienna. Hicks had a very good evening with a double-double of 28 points and 12 rebounds. Of course BC Vienna cruised to a 81-74 relatively comfortable win over the higher-ranked UBSC Graz (#7, 8-6). This victory allowed BC Vienna to move up to 10th position in the standings. 10 lost games is too many comparing to just four victories BC Vienna managed to get this year. Hicks is a newcomer at BC Vienna, but is already the team's top player.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Marcus Heard (201-F-84) of UBC okoStadt Gussing Knights (#11). Heard scored 18 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite Heard's great performance Gussing lost 59-87 to the higher-ranked Furstenfeld (#2, 10-4). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Gussing can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 4-10 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Heard he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Heard has individually a great season in Austria. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 8.1rpg (5th best). Heard attended one of camps at Eurobasket Summer League on his way to pro basketball.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Anthony Shavies (191-G-83) of Furstenfeld - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 13 assists
5. Rasheed Brokenborough (191-G-76) of Wels - 31 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Jason Chappell (206-F/C-83) of Klosterneub. - 21 points and 6 rebounds
7. Thomas Kennedy (201-F-87) of Worthersee - 39 points and 2 rebounds
8. Dragan Miletic (195-G-82) of UBSC Graz - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Sveto Pekovic (202-C/F-82) of BC Vienna - 17 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Daniel Horace (200-F-83) of Kapfenberg - 13 points and 10 rebounds

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Standings
Balkan League Standings
Group A
 1. Beograd 4-1 
 2. Levski 4-1 
 3. Zrinjski MC 3-1 
 4. Ulcijn 1-4 
 5. Svjetlost 0-5 
Group B
 1. Feni Indistrija 4-1 
 2. Mornar Bar 3-2 
 3. Rilski Sportist 2-2 
 4. Balkan 1-3 
 5. Mures 1-3 


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


BK Ventspils parts ways with Chet Mason - by Eurobasket News
BK Ventspils announced that Chester Mason (192-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: Miami (OH)) is no longer part of the team. The Latvian outfit released the player yesterday.
Chester Mason joined Ventsplis last summer from the Bosnian team Siroki TT Kabeli. He appeared five times in Latvian league averaging 12.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5 assists. In Baltic league and EuroChallenge his numbers were much lower.

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  BELGIUM   


After losing their first four games in Group D, Turk Telekom surprised Liege in Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Belgacom Liege-Turk Telekom 79:83

After losing their first four games in Group D, Turk Telekom surprised Liege in Belgium in Round 5 of EuroChallenge. The Turkish side grabbed 1-4 record due to 83:79 win as they had massive 28-11 third period.
The result has left Barak Netanya, Norrkoping Dolphins and Liege with 3-2 records going into the last week of Regular Season games. While it may have left the home fans with a sour taste in their mouth nothing could take away from the competitiveness of the match. Michael Jenkins (191-G-86, college: Winthrop) and Griffin gave Belgacom Liege 7:2 lead and Stipanovic scored for 11:5.Sani Becirovic (195-G-81) (195-G-81) made two free throws for 21:16 and Matela nailed three for 26:19. Guy Muya (190-G-83, agency: LBM Management) increase to 33:23, while Papac kept the difference at 41:31 at the end of the half. The third quarter was a night mare for the hosts that were swept by the opponents. Turk Telekom erupted with 28-11 for 59:52 at the end of thirty minutes. Simpson scored for 74:66 and Sani Becirovic brought 80:73. He also made the last free throws for his team that won the initial game.
Sani Becirovic paced all the winners with 24 points and Ceyhun Altay (196-G/F-86, agency: Court Side) netted 17. Gregory Stiemsma (211-C-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Wisconsin) collected 11 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Mehmet Yagmur (188-G-87) added 10. Xavier Collette (184-G-85, agency: LBM Management) finished the night with 13 points, while Michael Jenkins 1and Pierre-Antoine Gillet (201-F-91) posted 11 each in defeat.

Belgacom Liege: Xavier Collette 13, Michael Jenkins 11, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 11, Guy Muya 10
Turk Telekom: Sani Becirovic 24, Ceyhun Altay 17, Gregory Stiemsma 11+11 rebs, Mehmet Yagmur 10

Antwerp gain needed win over Steaua-Turabo - by Eurobasket News
Antwerp - Steaua-Turabo 78:65

Antwerp recorded the third win in EuroChallenge. This one came as the most valuable as Antwerp secured their birth in Last 16 round of the tournament. Steaua-Turabo entered the game having a 5-point buffer after the home game. But the Giants easily overcame the cushion and registered the necessary victory. So now the Romanian powerhouse have no chance of reaching the second position in the ladder.
The teams traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. Strickland capped the frame with a jumper to level things up at 20. Antwerp went on a 12:2 rally early in the second term to spur in front. Bryan Hopkins (183-G-83, college: SMU) then converted a four-point play to ensure a 12-point lead for the Giants. Antwerp secured a 44:32 halftime lead. Courtney Fortson (180-G-88, college: Arkansas) dropped a pair of three-pointers midway through the third term to keep Steaua-Turabo hopeful. But the hosts stayed persistent as they ensured a 61:51 lead with one quarter remaining. Courtney Fortson kept on fighting for the visitors as he dragged Steaua-Turabo within 8 points early in the final term. Antwerp answered with 8 points in a row and never looked back en route to the victory. Bryan Hopkins delivered 24 points for Antwerp. Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Canisius) contributed 18 points in the victory. Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Alabama) answered with game-high 27 points for Steaua-Turabo. Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Courtney Fortson had 12 points in defeat.

Antwerp: Bryan Hopkins 24, Darnell Wilson 18, Graham Brown (205-C-84, college: Michigan) 12
Steaua-Turabo: Virgil Stanescu 27, Hristo Nikolov 12, Courtney Fortson 12


Dexia hand Nancy second straight EuroChallenge loss - by Eurobasket News
Nancy - Dexia 79:82

Dexia stayed in the quest for EuroChallenge Last 16 birth after they defeated Nancy on the road. Ron Lewis (193-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Ohio St.) scored 18 points to lead the Belgian team. Dexia entered a three-team tie on top of Group H ladder. Dexia, Nancy and Oostende all knotted up at 3-2 record and stay in the fight for two spots in Last 16.
The lead changed hands for several times throughout the opening period. Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) capped the period with a jumper to secure a 22:20 lead for Dexia. Bellin organized a 9:0 run from the visitors as Dexia built a 31:22 advantage midway through the second quarter. Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) notched six points to keep Nancy in the game. The hosts cut the deficit at just three points at halftime 39:42. Nancy unleashed a 13:0 rally early in the third term to spur in front. Ron Lewis and Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Xavier) stopped the bleeding for Dexia. The visitors tied the score at 64 late in the period before Linehan gave Nancy a 66:64 lead with one quarter remaining. Justin Cage and Ron Lewis put Dexia back in front midway through the final stanza. Njumoluh tried to drag Nancy back in this one but Ron Lewis came up accurate from the stripe and then Stephen Brun (202-F-80) and Akingbala missed a bunch of jumpers as Dexia sealed the winning outcome.
Peter Van Paassen (211-C/F-78, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure) had 17 points for Dexia. Ronell Taylor and Justin Cage added 13 points each in the victory. Tremmell Darden answered with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Nancy. Stephen Brun finished with 18 points in the loss.

Nancy: Tremmell Darden 21, Stephen Brun 18
Dexia: Ron Lewis 18, Peter Van Paassen 17, Ronell Taylor 13, Justin Cage 13


Matt Lojeski carries Oostende past Orleans - by Eurobasket News
Orleans - Oostende 70:72

Oostende heated up the intrigue in EuroChallenge Group H. They narrowly defeated Orleans in France to enter a three-team tie on top of the ladder. Oostende, Nancy and Dexia are heading into the last round of the regular season leveled at 3-2 record. Orleans in the meantime got eliminated falling at 1-4 record. Matt Lojeski (198-G-85, college: Hawaii) hit a game-winning jumper to propel Oostende to the important victory in France yesterday.
The teams stayed close before Ludovic Vaty (206-C-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) knocked down four free throws giving Orleans a 15:10 lead late in the first quarter. Orleans stayed in charge as they entered the second period up by three points 17:14. Aldo Curti (180-G-87) and Ludovic Vaty gave the hosts a 7-point lead midway through the second period. Orleans arrived at halftime up by 6 points 37:31. Ludovic Vaty and Troy Bell (186-G-80, college: Boston Coll.) ensured a double-digit lead midway through the third quarter. Marcus Faison (196-G-78, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Siena) and Thomas narrowed the deficit at 8-point mark with one quarter remaining. Katnic triggered a 10:2 run from the visitors at the start of the fourth term as Orleans leveled things up at 58. The teams traded baskets before Matt Lojeski tied the score at 70 with six seconds to go. Reynolds then committed a turnover and Matt Lojeski punished the hosts hitting a game-winner. Caleb Green (203-F-85, college: ORU) fired 18 points to lead the effort. Matthew Matt Lojeski added 14 points in the victory. Ludovic Vaty answered with 16 points for Orleans. Aldo Curti and Troy Bell netted 10 points each in the loss.

Orleans: Ludovic Vaty 16, Aldo Curti 10, Troy Bell 10
Oostende: Caleb Green 18, Matt Lojeski 14, Marcus Faison 13


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  BOSNIA   


D1: Round 11 review - by Eurobasket News
Celik - Zrinjski 91-90
Celik and Zrinjski played a close game in which hosts had little more sports luck to secure narrow 91-90 win. Ivan Opacak (202-F-80) led the winning side with 29 points, while Haris Jahic added 17 points. For Zrinjski, Armer Kahrimanovic and Mato Peraica stood out with 21 and 19 points respectively.

Kakanj - Capljina 95-104
Capljina traveled to Kakanj and had no troubles on their way to 95-104 win. Visitors were led to victory by Jovan Zdravkovic (178-G-78, agency: Interperformances) who was unstoppable with 36 points, while Mladen Gligora followed with 20 points. For hosts, Abdur Kahrimanovic scored 23 points in defeat.

Varda - Slavija 86-72
Varda managed to overcome visiting Slavija 86-72. Jovan Bajic (191-G-80) led the way with 19 points while Sasa Crnobrnja and Srdjan Golubovic chipped in 18 and 15 points. For Slavija, MIlos Savovic had 22 points while Igor Vukovic finished the game with 21.

Bosna - Hercegovac 94-77
Bosna bounced back from last round defeat with 94-77 win over Hercegovac. Emir Zimic (216-C-86, agency: World Sport Agency) had 15 points for Bosna, and Bozo Djurasovic and Eldin Camdzic added 14 points apiece. On the other side, Goran Gajovic scored 18 points while Andrija Pejovic and Vladimir Radovanovic followed with 17 points each.

Borac Nektar - Mladost 85-78
Borac Nektar played hosts to Mladost and managed to secure home win. It was a closely contested match, but hosts managed to prevail in the end and celebrate 85-78 win.

Sloboda Dita - Leotar 94-62
Sloboda Dita played hosts to Leaotar and rolled over them for more than comfortable 94-62 home win. Zlatan Halibegovic (187-G-87) led the rout with 22 points and Dejan Jeftic contributed with 19 points. For visitors, not even 20 points by Bojan Pelikic could save them from loss in this one.

D1 Standings
1. Mladost 8-2
2. Capljina 8-2
3. Bosna 8-2
4. Borac Nektar 7-3
5. Sloboda Dita 5-5
6. Kakanj 5-5
7. Hercegovac 5-5
8. SL IAT Leotar 5-6
9. Zrinjski HT 4-6
10. Celik 4-7
11. Varda HE 3-7
12. Slavija 2-7
13. Brotnjo 2-8

Nihad Djedovic: ''I had options in ACB, but I preferred Roma'' - by Eurobasket News
Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket), from Lottomatica Roma, made a crazy week and in a few days he combined a 40 valoration in domestic competition with a -11 ranking in Euroleague in Madrid. The bosnian 1.96 guard arrived last summer to the italian capital loaned from FC Barcelona after spending one year with Xacobeo (ACB) averaging 6.3 points and 1.7 rebounds (also loaned). Eurohopes contacted him after both games. The prospect explained us that the Real Madrid one 'was a very difficult game, they earned to win. They played very well and the players were very connected as a team'. And what about the italian MVP award after the 40 valoration? 'That was my best game at senior level so far. It was great! I really hope to have a lot of games like that one in the future, and even better ones'.

NBA scouts have been following his steps last seasons, but he prefers other things at the moment. 'I am concentrated to play well here in Rome for Lottomatica, and then to come back to Barcelona. Now I am very focused on the things going on here in Europe, and I'm not thinking a lot about NBA in these moments'. Some days ago Pete Mickeal and Joan Carles Navarro, from FC Barcelona, got injured. Was the bosnian an option? We asked him. 'That is an issue I don't know nothing about, and it is a thing for which my agent is responsible for and knows the best'. Djedovic added that he decided to sign in Italy because 'was the best option for me even there were ACB teams that wanted me. I preferred Roma. This will help me a lot in my development and growth as a player'.

Djedovic is currently averaging 14.2 points, 2.9 rebounds and 2.6 steals in Serie A. And Euroleague? 6.8, 2.5 and 1.5.

Courtesy of www.eurohopes.com

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  BRAZIL   


NBB Round 7: #1 Flamengo is defeated by Pinheiros/Sky - by Eurobasket News
There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Flamengo (4-1) in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday night. Hosts were edged by second ranked Pinheiros/Sky (5-1) 90-88. It also means that the series of four victories in a row of Flamengo ended. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Pinheiros/Sky has a solid series of three victories in a row. The victory allowed Pinheiros/Sky (5-1) to take over a leadership position. Flamengo who is 4-1 went down to third place as they suffered their first loss. Pinheiros/Sky are looking forward to face Pitagoras/Minas (#7) in Belo Horizonte in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Flamengo will play on the road against Paulistano (#4) in Sao Paolo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a home loss of third-ranked Pitagoras/Minas (4-2) against eighth ranked Paulistano (4-2) on Sunday night. Host Pitagoras/Minas were defeated by eighth ranked Paulistano (4-2) in a tough game in Belo Horizonte 89-94. The victory allowed Paulistano (4-2) to climb to the fourth place. They share it with three other teams including defeated Pitagoras/Minas. Paulistano will play against higher ranked Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Pitagoras/Minas will play on the road against the league's leader Pinheiros/Sky in Sao Paolo and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Bottom-ranked Assis Basket (0-6) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their sixth consecutive match to seventh ranked BRB/Brasilia (4-2) 78-107 on Sunday evening. The victory allowed current champions BRB/Brasilia (4-2) to climb to the fourth place. They share it with three other teams. Sixth consecutive loss means that Assis Basket is still at the bottom of the standings. BRB/Brasilia will meet at home Itabom/Bauru (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Assis Basket will play against Unitri/Universo (#6) in Uberlandia and hopes to get finally their first victory.
And what about another game where Vila Velha CETAF (#13) beat 10th ranked Winner/Limeira 77-74 on the road. The victory allowed Vila Velha CETAF (2-5) to climb to the eleventh place. Winner/Limeira who is 1-3 went down to twelfth position as they suffered their third loss. Vila Velha CETAF's next round opponent will be higher ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (#10) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Winner/Limeira will play against Vitoria and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game took place in Uberlandia where 4th placed Unitri/Universo (4-2) was upset on it's own court by ninth ranked Itabom/Bauru (4-2) 76-67 on Tuesday. Despite the victory Itabom/Bauru (3-3) stay at ninth position. Unitri/Universo is currently in fourth place with a 4-2 record as they suffered their second loss. Itabom/Bauru will face higher ranked BRB/Brasilia (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Unitri/Universo will play against Assis Basket.

In the last two games of round 7 Araraquara lost to Araldite/Univille on the opponent's court 75-91. S.Jose/Vinac outscored Vitoria in a home game 97-62.

Araldite/Univille - Araraquara 91-75

Very expected game in Joinville where 12th ranked Araraquara (1-5) was defeated by fifth ranked Araldite/Univille (5-2) 91-75 on Sunday. The victory allowed Araldite/Univille (5-2) to climb to the second place. Araraquara lost fifth consecutive game. The team is currently 1-5 and went down to thirteenth position. Araldite/Univille will face Vivo/Franca (#8) in Sao Paulo in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game.
gschID: 102677


S.Jose/Vinac - Vitoria 97-62

Rather predictable result when eleventh ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (2-3) smashed at home 14th ranked Vitoria (1-6) 97-62 on Sunday. The victory allowed Sao Jose/Vinac (2-3) to climb to the tenth place. Vitoria lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted Vitoria suffered the sixth loss. The team is currently in fourteenth position with a 1-6 record. Sao Jose/Vinac will face Vila Velha CETAF (#11) at home in the next round. Vitoria will play against Winner/Limeira and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 102678


Winner/Limeira - Vila Velha CETAF 74-77

And what about another game where Vila Velha CETAF (#13) beat 10th ranked Winner/Limeira 77-74 on the road. The victory allowed Vila Velha CETAF (2-5) to climb to the eleventh place. Winner/Limeira who is 1-3 went down to twelfth position as they suffered their third loss. Vila Velha CETAF's next round opponent will be higher ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (#10) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Winner/Limeira will play against Vitoria in Vitória and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 102679


Unitri/Universo - Itabom/Bauru 67-76

An interesting game took place in Uberlandia where 4th placed Unitri/Universo (4-2) was upset on its own court by ninth ranked Itabom/Bauru (4-2) 76-67 on Tuesday. Despite the victory Itabom/Bauru (3-3) stay at ninth position. Unitri/Universo is currently in fourth place with a 4-2 record as they suffered their second loss. Itabom/Bauru will face higher ranked BRB/Brasilia (#5) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Unitri/Universo will play against Assis Basket.
gschID: 102680


BRB/Brasilia - Assis Basket 107-78

Bottom-ranked Assis Basket (0-6) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their sixth consecutive match to seventh ranked BRB/Brasilia (4-2) 78-107 on Sunday evening. The victory allowed current champions BRB/Brasilia (4-2) to climb to the fourth place. They share it with three other teams. Sixth consecutive loss means that Assis Basket is still at the bottom of the standings. BRB/Brasilia will meet at home Itabom/Bauru (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Assis Basket will play against Unitri/Universo (#6) in Uberlandia and hopes to get finally their first victory.
gschID: 102681


Pitagoras/Minas - Paulistano 89-94

Very important is a home loss of third-ranked Pitagoras/Minas (4-2) against eighth ranked Paulistano (4-2) on Sunday night. Host Pitagoras/Minas were defeated by eighth ranked Paulistano (4-2) in a tough game in Belo Horizonte 89-94. The victory allowed Paulistano (4-2) to climb to the fourth place. They share it with three other teams including defeated Pitagoras/Minas. Paulistano will play against higher ranked Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Pitagoras/Minas will play on the road against the league's leader Pinheiros/Sky in Sao Paolo and hopes to get back on the winning track.
gschID: 102682


Flamengo - Pinheiros/Sky 88-90

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Flamengo (4-1) in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday night. Hosts were edged by second ranked Pinheiros/Sky (5-1) 90-88. It also means that the series of four victories in a row of Flamengo ended. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Pinheiros/Sky has a solid series of three victories in a row. The victory allowed Pinheiros/Sky (5-1) to take over a leadership position. Flamengo who is 4-1 went down to third place as they suffered their first loss. Pinheiros/Sky are looking forward to face Pitagoras/Minas (#7) in Belo Horizonte in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Flamengo will play on the road against Paulistano (#4) in Sao Paolo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 102683




Uniceub/BRB narrowly defeat Defensor - by Eurobasket News
Uniceub/BRB - Defensor 84:81

The Brazilian champions Uniceub/BRB started their Liga Americas campaign with victory. They narrowly outscored Defensor of Uruguay in Group B opener in Xalapa. Guilhereme Giovannoni knocked down 25 points to pace the effort.
Uniceub/BRB and Defensor looked well-matched in the opening stanza. The teams traded baskets and eventually the Brazilian side eke out a 21:20 lead. Defensor stayed close throughout the second term but could not succeed. Uniceub/BRB rallied to a 43:39 halftime advantage. Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81, agency: Interperformances) and Alex Garcia organized a 9:2 run in the third term as Uniceub/BRB opened a double-digit advantage. They maintained it to enter the fourth quarter up by 10 points 68:58. Defensor fought bravely as they were able to narrow the distance at just two points 78:80. Nezinho dos Santos committed what could be a decisive turnover in the dying seconds but Izaguirre missed a three-pointer and could not force overtime in this one.
Nezinho dos Santos tallied 16 points and 6 assists for Uniceub/BRB. Fabio Telminho Oliveira (195-F-79) and Lucas Tischer (208-C-83, agency: Interperformances) had 11 points each in the win. Clerence Matthews (201-F-83, college: Tennessee St.) replied with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Defensor. Brian Woodward (191-G-81, college: Rhode Island) provided 18 points in defeat

Uniceub/BRB: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) 25, Nezinho dos Santos 16, Fabio Telminho Oliveira 11, Lucas Tischer 11
Defensor: Clerence Matthews 21, Brian Woodward 18


Soriani found a new team - by Paulo Freire
After more than 15 years the city of Sorocaba again will be represented in a national competition of basketball in the profissional male category. The director board of Sorocaba Basketball (L.S.B. / OBJETIVO / FLEXTRONICS ) anticipated in these afternoon, that the team will play the Brazil Cup of basketball, to be played between January 25 and April 3, 2011.

The competition will be regionalized in the first phase (Copa Southeast, South, Northeast, North and Midwest). The LSB will face two teams from Sao Paulo (Rio Claro and Palmeiras), three teams from Rio de Janeiro (Tijuca, Macae and Cabo Frio) and two teams from Minas Gerais (Olympico and Paraiso). The winner of the Brazil Cup might have a chance to play on the NBB 2011-2012 season.

For the contention of the national competition, the LSB has already renewed the contracts of Cesar Araujo (201-F/C-81) Daniel Conti (200-F/C-81) and Everson Rodrigues (78). The point guard Fernando Augusto (79) and Emerson Gomes (83) are still negotiating their stays. According to head coach Rinaldo Rodrigues, until the team's presentation it will be given for the team new players.

Talking about new hirings, the LSB hit their first signing of Luiz Felipe Soriani (188-G-89) who is 21 years old, 1m89, he was defending the Jacarei Basketball Team on the dispute of the second division Paulista State Championship (Serie A-2).

The athlete, who began his career at the now defunct Ribeirao Preto / COC and had also played for the Lupo / Araraquara, Saldanha da Gama and GRSA / Itabom / Bauru, he will be presented to head coach Rinaldo Rodrigues on January 3, 2011.

Paulistano add new point guard - by Paulo Freire
Thel Paulistano / Amil basketball entered in the third edition of the NBB with a genuine restructuring at their team, with changes at the head coach until the composition of the roster, which was rejuvenated. The director board actually bet on young talents for this season and now landed a contract for the rest of the season with a promising point guard Elinho Corazza, who is only 21 years old.

Always considered one of the great promises of the young basic categories of Sao Paulo State, Elinho was formed on Pinheiros Club, where he won titles and individual awards. Happy with his new club Elinho will play his first NBB Championship of his career.

Elio Corazza (193-G-89, college: Miami Dade CC) stood out in the Paulista State Championship playing for Sao Caetano in 24 games, getting an average of 11.7 ppg, 4.2 apg and 1.5 steals per game.




Standings - BNL
NBB Standings
 1. Pinheiros/Sky 5-1 
 2. Araldite/Univille 5-2 
 3. Flamengo 4-1 
 4. Paulistano 4-2 
 5. BRB/Brasilia 4-2 
 6. Unitri/Universo 4-2 
 7. Pitagoras/Minas 4-2 
 8. Vivo/Franca 3-0 
 9. Itabom/Bauru 3-3 
 10. S.Jose/Vinac 2-3 
 11. Vila Velha CETAF 2-5 
 12. Winner/Limeira 1-3 
 13. Araraquara 1-5 
 14. Vitoria 1-6 
 15. Assis Basket 0-6 


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


Lukoil seal a place in the Last 16 of the EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
Lukoil Academic-Tartu Rock 74:64

Lukoil seal a place in the Last 16 of the EuroChallenge after another victory in the tournament. The Bulgarian squad rout Tartu Rock 74:64 for 4-1 record on top of Group C.
Georgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) made the first successful shot for the Estonian team, while Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown) tied the game in the opening tip. Lukoil Academic started to play better in the first frame and finished it with 17:6 as Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, agency: Alti Sport, college: UNLV) closed it from the free throw line. Stoykov increased to 20:6, but Sokk reduced it fast to 23:18. Travis Peterson (208-C-85, agency: Edge Sports, college: Samford) sent the teams to the lockers for 31:25 making the free throw at the end of the half. Heath drove a lay-up in the start of the third quarter and Heath gave the hosts 37:27 advantage. Kaspars Kambala delivered for 48:38, whilst Banev closed the period at 55:46. Estonian team did not panic and Rain Veideman (192-G-91) cut it to 61:57 with 5 minutes in the game. Lukoil Academic however needed an 8-0 run to take the things easier and then Kaspars Kambala scored for 71:59. Heath went on the free throw line to close the game at 74:64.
Kaspars Kambala paced all the winners with 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Brandon Bowman netted 18. Dominic James (180-G-86, college: Marquette) delivered 17 and Travis Peterson collected 7 points and 7 boards.

Lukoil Academic: Kaspars Kambala 19+13 rebs, Brandon Bowman 18, Dominic James 17, Travis Peterson 7+7 rebs
Tartu Rock: Georgi Tsintsadze 12, Rain Veideman 12, Janar Talts (205-C-83) 11

*****************************************************
  CHINA   


Yao Ming says he's OK, waiting for 'green light' to play - by Eurobasket News
Ming Yao (7'5''-C-80) said he feels like he is ready to play. The Rockets center has not been cleared to rejoin the team's workouts because team doctors want him to strengthen the muscles in his left ankle, weakened since his Nov. 10 injury.

'I'm waiting for the green light,' Yao said. 'When? I don't know. I feel better. It still has some weakness. I'm just not ready to sit out for almost 20 games, particularly when I feel I'm OK. I know when I was in the walking boot, on the crutches, OK, I understand.

'I won't push the trainer or the doctor. They all try to treat me the best that they can. I know they try to find the best way for me to get back on the court.'

Yao would not say if he would be playing if the decision were his to make, but when asked if he has made it known how he feels, he laughed and said, 'I tell them every day.'

Coach Rick Adelman said he has not been told when Yao will be cleared to practice.

Courtesy of www.chron.com

Standings - CBA
CBA Standings
 1. DongGuan 2-0 
 2. Guandong 2-0 
 3. Zhejiang G.L. 2-0 
 4. Shanxi Zh. 1-0 
 5. Xinjiang 1-0 
 6. Beijing 1-1 
 7. Bayi 1-1 
 8. Jiangsu 1-1 
 9. TianJin R. 1-1 
 10. Zhejiang C. 1-1 
 11. Qingdao DS 1-1 
 12. Liaoning 1-1 
 13. Shandong 1-1 
 14. Foshan 0-2 
 15. Fujian 0-2 
 16. Jilin 0-2 
 17. Shanghai 0-2 


Stats Leaders - CBA
Points Per Game
 Charles GAINES
  Qingdao DS
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 38
 1. Gaines, Qingdao DS38.0 
 2. Morris, Beijing37.5 
 3. James, Zhejiang C.33.5 
 4. Crittenton, Zhejia.32.5 
 5. Lamizana, TianJ.31.5 
 6. Akognon, DongGuan30.5 
 7. Zhao, Shanxi Zh.25.0 
 8. Douby, Xinjiang24.0 
 9. Brown, Qingdao DS23.5 
 10. Wang, Guandong23.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Olumide OYEDEJI
  Foshan
  (208-C/F-81)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Oyedeji, Foshan19.5 
 2. Lamizana, TianJ.19.0 
 3. Watkins, Jilin16.5 
 4. Sampson, Shanxi Z.16.0 
 5. Jones, Fujian15.5 
 6. Richard, Liaoning15.0 
 7. Ramos, Zhejiang.14.5 
 8. Benson, TianJin R.14.5 
 9. Gaines, Qingdao DS14.0 
 10. Vroman, DongGuan12.5 
Assists Per Game
 Quincy DOUBY
  Xinjiang
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 10
 1. Douby, Xinjiang10.0 
 2. Daghlas, Shanxi Zh.9.0 
 3. Vroman, DongGuan8.0 
 4. Crittenton, Zhejia.7.0 
 5. Marbury, Foshan6.5 
 6. Lamizana, TianJ.6.0 
 7. Hu, Jiangsu6.0 
 8. Allen, Shandong5.0 
 9. Jones, Guandong5.0 
 10. Mengke, Xinjiang5.0 
Steals Per Game
 Osama DAGHLAS
  Shanxi Zh.
  (199-G-79)
  Avg: 6
 1. Daghlas, Shanxi Zh.6.0 
 2. Crittenton, Zhejia.6.0 
 3. Zhong, Jilin4.5 
 4. Douby, Xinjiang4.0 
 5. Akognon, DongGuan4.0 
 6. Xu, Xinjiang4.0 
 7. Zhang, TianJin R.4.0 
 8. Singleton, Xinjiang4.0 
 9. Green, Shanghai4.0 
 10. Yang, Foshan3.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Herve LAMIZANA
  TianJin R.
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Lamizana, TianJ.5.5 
 2. Wang, Bayi3.5 
 3. Watkins, Jilin3.5 
 4. Moiso, Jiangsu3.0 
 5. Benson, TianJin R.3.0 
 6. Richard, Liaoning2.5 
 7. Abbaas, Beijing2.0 
 8. Ba, Shanxi Zh.2.0 
 9. Liu, Jiangsu2.0 
 10. Li, Guandong2.0 


Guangdong Keeps Winning, Shanghai Keeps Losing - by Arthur Volbert
Randolph Morris had 40 points and 11 rebounds and Zaid Abbas had 36 points and 17 rebounds as Beijing defeated Qingdao 116-107. Xie Libin scored 12 and Chen Lei and Ji Zhe each had 11. Wang Xiaohui, with 6 points, was the only other Beijing player to score. Charles Gaines led Qingdao with 43 points and 16 rebounds. Dee Brown had 28 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists. No native player scored in double figures.

Shanxi Zhongyu edged Tianjin 98-97. Zhao Anan had 25 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Osama Dahglas had 20 points, 9 assists and 6 steals. Leon Rogers and Shang Ping each scored 13. Zhang Biao, a youngster who came from Jilin, scored 12. Jamal Sampson had 7 points and 16 rebounds. Herve Lamizana had 33 points and 21 rebounds for Tianjin. Zhang Nan had 23 points and 6 steals. Young point guard Shen Tujun had 11 points and 2 rebounds. Lee Benson had only 5 points and 9 rebounds.

Hu Xuefeng had 20 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists as Jiangsu blew out Foshan 100-79. Meng Da also scored 20. Ricky Davis had 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Liu Yahui had 15 points and 8 rebounds. Yi Li had 11 points and 11 rebounds. Jerome Moiso had 9 points and 9 rebounds. Tang Zhengdong, returning after a contract dispute, had 4 points in 17 minutes. Zhao Yonggang had 26 points for Foshan. Stephon Marbury had 18 points and 7 assists. 214 cm Zheng Zhun had 15 points and 12 rebounds. Olumide Oyedeji had 8 points and 18 rebounds.

Dongguan crushed disappointing Shanghai 113-97. Josh Okognon had 35 points. Qiu Baio had 21. Zhang Kai had 18 points and 9 rebounds. Jackson Vroman had 15 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists but also 11 turnovers. Meng Duo had 8 points and 6 rebounds. Michael Harris had 23 points and 10 rebounds for Shanghai but fouled out in 33 minutes. Devin Green hd 13 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals, but only hit 3 of 15 shots. Liu Ziqui scored 17 and Liu Wei scored 14. Zhang Zhaoxu had 11 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals.

Guangdong defeated Jilin 92-82. Zhu FangYu (201-F-83) had 33 points and 9 rebounds. Fred Jones had 12 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Du Feng scored 11. David Harrison and Wang Shipeng did not play. David Young scored 19 for Jilin. Jameel Watkins had 14 points and 14 rebounds. Zhong Cheng had 11 points and 8 rebounds and Li Tao had 11 points and 5 rebounds. Liu Wei scored 10 and Yu Shulong scored 9.

Chris Richard had 24 points and 14 rebounds to lead Liaoning to a 110-104 victory over Shandong. Yang Ming had 19 points and 5 rebounds. Bian Qiang scored 15. Han Dejun had 13 points and 6 rebounds, but also 4 fouls, in 8 minutes. #23, a new import, had 11 points and 4 rebounds. Li Xiaoxu had 7 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals. Rodney White had 24 points for Shandong. Myron Allen had 22 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Liu Jiulong had 15 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Li Jingyu scored 13 and Sun Jie scored 12. 206 cm Tao Hanlin, listed as born in 1991, had 10 points and 10 rebounds, his second straight excellent game.

Mike James had 38 points and Zhejiang defeated Fujian 93-87. Jin Lipeng scored 21. Ding Jinhui had 16 points but fouled out in 19 minutes. Josh Boone had 10 points and 12 rebounds. Zhao Tailong had 20 points for Fujian. Dwayne Jones had 17 points and 16 rebounds. Chris Porter had 8 points and 9 rebounds. Lv Xiaoming had 14 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists. Gong Songlin scored 13.

The Zhejiang Lions edged Bayi 107-104. Javaris Crittenton had 35 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. Wang Bo scored 20. Peter John Ramos had 14 points and 10 rebounds. Zhang Wei scored 13 and Deng Li scored 9. Wang Lei had 38 points and 8 rebounds for Bayi, at least for today returning to pre-injury form. Zhang Bo had 20 points and 4 assists. Wang Zhizhi had 16 points and 18 rebounds. Mo Ke had 13 points and 9 rebounds. Han Shuo had 10 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists.




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


Krka wins the last game of Round 5 and advanced to Top 16 - by Eurobasket News
KK Zagreb-Krka 75:78

Krka continues their debut surprising year and EuroChallenge and already advance to Top 16 with 1 game remaining. The Slovenian team overcame KK Zagreb 78:75 for 4-1 record.
The hosts started the game with 4-0 run and Alex Renfroe (190-G-86, college: Belmont) scored for 9:7. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) brought 13:9, while Damir Mulaomerovic (195-G-74, agency: FCM) closed the period with a three for 21:17. Goran Ikonic (196-G-80), Krivec and Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) scored for 25:23 in the start of the second period, while Babic closed the 11-0 run for his team as Zagreb took 34:27 halftime advantage. Djordjevic's team responded with 8-0 run as he closed the half at 34:34. Luka Zoric made two free throws in the beginning of the third quarter and then the squads exchanged the leads several times. Luka Zoric was also the last to score in the third frame for 52:50 advantage as Zagreb won the third quarter 18-16. Trailing 56:62, Krka needed a 9-0 run for 65:62 lead with 4.30 in the game. Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Purdue) scored two for 74:68 and Petrov gave his side 78:72. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) nailed three at the very end but it was not enough for the total win.
Luka Zoric top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Damir Mulaomerovic posted 17. Krunoslav Simon netted 14, while Alex Renfroe added 10. Goran Ikonic finished the night with 23 points in the losing effort as the team from Croatia remains winless. Christopher Booker and Dragisa Drobnjak followed him with 11 points each in defeat.

KK Zagreb: Luka Zoric 22, Damir Mulaomerovic 17, Krunoslav Simon 14, Alex Renfroe 10
Krka: Goran Ikonic 23, Christopher Booker 11, Dragisa Drobnjak 11


Vedran Princ set for surgery, faces month on sidelines - by Eurobasket News
Bad news for Cedevitas Vedran Princ (192-G-82). According to the reports from Croatian media, experienced guard will have to undergo groin surgery. He is facing around a month on the sidelines and will not be able to help his team in the upcoming matches in EuroChallenge and Adriatic League.
Vedran Princ started his career with Zrinski Soko Mostar before moving to Feal Siroki Brijeg in 2002. With Siroki he has won numerous trophies including 3 League titles and 2 national cups. After 5 seasons with Siroki, where he became a valuable role player, Princ was signed by Cibona in 2007. In his first year with the club, he appeared in 16 League games, averaging 7.0 points, 1.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting 56.0% from the field. Following season Princ averaged 2.3 points in 24 Adriatic league games, while in Croatian League he played in 15 games and posted averages of 5.8 points 1.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists while converting 85.7% of his 2 point attempts. Princ demonstrated moments of brilliance last season, helping his team win the National Cup. With Cibona he has also won National Title last season after his team was better than Zadar in Playoff finals. Before leaving Cibona, Princ has appeared in 13 Adriatic league games and has posted averages of 2.5 points. In Euroleague, he has played in 8 games and has averaged 3.7 points and 1.0 rebound. In March of 2010, Princ moved to Latvia where he played for Ventspils. At the start of this season he signed with Cedevita.

Partizan Belgrade attacked in Zadar - by Eurobasket News
A bus carrying Partizan Belgrade basketball players has been attacked with stones in Croatia.

The incident happened on Sunday night, in the wake of the NLB league match in the Croatian town of Zadar.

The bus was on the way to the local airport.

Sporting Director Dragan Todoric confirmed that coach Vlada Jovanovic was injured.

'When we left the arena the bus was hit with two stones. One broke the glass and hit Vlada Jovanovic in the face. Luckily it only grazed him, so his face is a little cut up and swollen,' Todoric told B92.

Jovanovic will coach the team in the Euroleague game against Prokom.

Courtesy of www.b92.net/eng

Marko Popovic sustains broken arm - by Eurobasket News
Experienced Croatian International Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) is facing months on the sidelines after breaking his arm. Popovic suffered injury in the 12th minute of the match between his Unics Kazan and Triumph. Popovic will undergo further examination to see what is the realistic timeline for his comeback. It remains to be seen if Unics will look to sign a short term replacement for one of its very important players. So far, Popovic is the leading scorer for Unics in Russian league where he averages 15.6 points. In Baltic league he is overall leading scorer with 20.8 points per match.
Marko Popovic started his career at Zadar. With them he lifted 2 Croatian Cups in 2000 and 2003. In 2003/04 he spent a year with Pamesa Valencia in ACB League, before returning to Croatia and signing with Cibona. With the team from Zagreb, Popovic win the title in 2004. Following season Popovic went to Turkey where he helped Efes lift the Turkish Cup in 2006. After episode in Turkey, Popovic moved to Lithuania signing for Zalgiris Kaunas. With Zalgiris Popovic won Lithuanian title in 2007 as well as 2 Lithuanian Cups in 2007 and 2008. He was also Baltic Champion in 2008. At the start of 2008-2009 season, Popovic moved to Unics where he helped the team win Russian Cup. In 13 Eurocup games Popovic posted averages of 11.5 points and 2.6 assists per game. In Russian League, Popovic averaged 11.6 points and 2.6 assists in 25 League games.

Apoel beat Zadar in Nicosia - by Eurobasket News
Apoel-Zadar 61:56

Apoel beat Zadar in Nicosia to tie both records in Group G of EuroChallange. The team from Cyprus enjoyed 61:56 victory to stay alive for Sweet 16. Next week, Apoel will host Group G leaders Pinar Karsiyaka while Zadar must square off against ETHA Encomi.
Both sides traded baskets throughout the early going and then Kevin Tiggs (196-G/F-84, college: E.Tenn.St.) nailed three for 10:7. The home side maintained their lead to head into the second period leading 20:7. Buljan continued the run in the start of the second frame and Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) reduced to 22:9. Ivanov drove a lay-up for 29:21 and Marcinkovic closed the period at 36:24. Kevin Tiggs made a jump shot to open the third quarter, while Jakov Vladovic and Marko Car (188-G/F-85) nailed threes each for 40:32. Ivanov later reduced to 47:41 and Tomas closed the period at 53:43. In the final quarter of play the Zadar tried valiantly to get themselves back into the game. Jakov Vladovic managed to cut it to 56:52, while he made another free throw for 59:53. Apoel however won the game due to the last basket of Buljan.
Kevin Tiggs paced all the winners with 19 points for the valuable victory. Ian Hanavan (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Evansville) collected 15 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Lee added 10. Jakov Vladovic replied with 24 points in defeat and Marko Car netted 11.

Apoel: Kevin Tiggs 19, Ian Hanavan 15+10 rebs, Lee 10
Zadar: Jakov Vladovic 24, Marko Car 11

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


Apoel beat Zadar in Nicosia - by Eurobasket News
Apoel-Zadar 61:56

Apoel beat Zadar in Nicosia to tie both records in Group G of EuroChallange. The team from Cyprus enjoyed 61:56 victory to stay alive for Sweet 16. Next week, Apoel will host Group G leaders Pinar Karsiyaka while Zadar must square off against ETHA Encomi.
Both sides traded baskets throughout the early going and then Kevin Tiggs (196-G/F-84, college: E.Tenn.St.) nailed three for 10:7. The home side maintained their lead to head into the second period leading 20:7. Buljan continued the run in the start of the second frame and Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) reduced to 22:9. Ivanov drove a lay-up for 29:21 and Marcinkovic closed the period at 36:24. Kevin Tiggs made a jump shot to open the third quarter, while Jakov Vladovic and Marko Car (188-G/F-85) nailed threes each for 40:32. Ivanov later reduced to 47:41 and Tomas closed the period at 53:43. In the final quarter of play the Zadar tried valiantly to get themselves back into the game. Jakov Vladovic managed to cut it to 56:52, while he made another free throw for 59:53. Apoel however won the game due to the last basket of Buljan.
Kevin Tiggs paced all the winners with 19 points for the valuable victory. Ian Hanavan (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Evansville) collected 15 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Lee added 10. Jakov Vladovic replied with 24 points in defeat and Marko Car netted 11.

Apoel: Kevin Tiggs 19, Ian Hanavan 15+10 rebs, Lee 10
Zadar: Jakov Vladovic 24, Marko Car 11

Pinar Karsiyaka advanced to Sweet 16 of the EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
Pinar Karsiyaka-ETHA Encomi 85:67

Pinar Karsiyaka advanced to Sweet 16 of the EuroChallenge as the squad celebrated another victory. The Turkish side grabbed 4-1 record on top of Group G after convincing 85:67 win over Etha.
The visitors started sloppily with some turnovers inside the first couple of minutes and a score by Eldridge handed the hosts the lead at 23:16 in the end of the period. Jovo Stanojevic (208-C-77, agency: Beo Basket) brought 29:21 and another five points from the player showed 35:26. Erdogan nailed three to close the half at 49:39 as the hosts won the period 26-23. In the third quarter David Holston (170-G-86, college: Chicago St.) made it 58:46 and Jovo Stanojevic closed the frame at 64:52. Pinar Karsiyaka were much improved in the fourth period and having looked like they might get blown out early, they rallied and stepped things up much to the frustration. With 21-15 they finished the last quarter to seal the fourth win in the group.
David Holston top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Jovo Stanojevic added 19. Smith finished the night with 11 points and Furkan Aldemir (205-F-91) had 8 points and 10 rebounds. Anthony King (206-F/C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami (FL)) erupted with 27 points in the losing effort as his team has 2-3 record as well as Nicosia side Apoel and BC Zadar. Ken Tutt (185-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: ORU) posted 12 and Valdas Dabkus (204-F-84) delivered 11.

Pinar Karsiyaka: David Holston 21, Jovo Stanojevic 19, Smith 11, Furkan Aldemir 8+10 rebs
ETHA Encomi: Anthony King 27, Ken Tutt 12, Valdas Dabkus 11

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


Grizzlies assign Carroll D-League Wizards - by Eurobasket News
The Memphis Grizzlies assigned forward DeMarre Carroll (6'8''-F-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Missouri) to the Dakota Wizards, the teams NBA Development League affiliate, Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced Tuesday.

The 27th overall pick of the 2009 NBA Draft, Carroll holds career averages of 2.9 points and 2.1 rebounds in 10.9 minutes in 75 games (one start) in two seasons with the Grizzlies. The 6-8, 212-pound forward has appeared in four games this season, averaging 1.5 points and 1.5 rebounds in 5.0 minutes.

Carroll, who was named the Big 12 Tournament MVP as a senior at Missouri in 2009, is expected to make his D-League debut on Friday, Dec. 17, when the Wizards (1-9) host the Texas Legends (6-2).

The Grizzlies will try to extend their win streak to a season-best four games Wednesday night at 7:00pm when the team hosts the Charlotte Bobcats at FedExForum.

Courtesy of www.myfoxmemphis.com

Skyforce acquires Mason-Griffin - by Eurobasket News
The Sioux Falls Skyforce announced today the acquisition of Tommy Mason-Griffin (5'11''-G). The active roster now stands at 11 players.

Mason-Griffin declared for the 2010 NBA Draft after averaging 14.1 points and 5.0 assists in his lone season with the Oklahoma Sooners. He was named All-Big 12 Third Team and All-Rookie Team and set Oklahoma freshman records for assists (154), assists per game (5.0), 3-point field goals (70), 3-point field goal percentage (.424) and minutes per game (35.7). The 5-11, 203-pound guard was named the 2009 Gatorade Texas High School Basketball Player of the Year and competed in 2009 McDonalds and Jordan Brand Classic All-American games.

The Skyforces next game is on Friday, Dec. 17 at home against the Utah Flash. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. at the Sioux Falls Arena. Season tickets and 12-ticket flex packs for the 2010-11 season are on sale. Discounts and benefits are also available for groups of 10 or more. For more information please contact a Skyforce representative at (605) 332-0605.

Courtesy of www.keloland.com

66ers impressive in Texas, beat Legends 130-116 - by Eurobasket News
Texas L. - Tulsa 66ers 116-130
The Tulsa 66ers (5-4) tallied their most points of the season Tuesday evening in a 130-116 victory over the Texas Legends (6-3) inside Dr. Pepper Arena in Frisco, Texas. A season-high seven 66ers scored in double figures, led by point guard Zabian Dowdell (6'3''-G-84, college: Virginia Tech) with 22. Also scoring in double digits for Tulsa was Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, college: UAB) with 19, Larry Owens (6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) and Jerome Dyson with 18 each, Latavious Williams with 17, and Marcus Lewis and Robert Vaden with 12 and 10, respectively. Millsap garnered a team-high seven rebounds while Owens and Tweety Carter each tallied five assists. Offensively, Tulsa posted season highs in both field goal and 3-point percentages. The 66ers shot 48-77 (.623) from the floor, including 9-16 (.562) from beyond the arc. Tulsa led 66-60 at halftime before expanding its lead to as many as 20 points in the third quarter with a 24-8 run. The 66ers improved to 3-2 this season on the road and recorded their first victory over Texas, who is competing in its first season in the NBA D-League. The Legends were led in scoring by Antonio Daniels with 22 and in rebounds by Reece Hampton and Matt Rogers with nine boards each. The 66ers will return to Tulsa to prepare for back-to-back home games against the Fort Wayne Mad Ants this Thursday and Friday, Dec. 16th and 17th. Both games are scheduled to tip at 7 p.m. inside the Tulsa Convention Center. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com



Dakota Wizards acquire former Clemson guard Vernon Hamilton - by Eurobasket News
The Dakota Wizards announced today that they have acquired guard Vernon Hamilton (6'0''-G-84, college: Clemson) via the Available Player Pool. Hamilton will practice with the team today and will be in uniform this weekend as the Wizards play host to the expansion Texas Legends Friday and Saturday.

Hamilton, 26, was drafted in this years NBA Development League Draft in the sixth round by the Austin Toros where he averaged 13.5 points and 3.8 assists in 4 games for the Toros. The 6-1, 195 lb. guard from Clemson entered the draft after being released by the Detroit Pistons. He played briefly last season in the Ukraine and in 8 games in Switzerland he averaged 19.0 points and 3 assists per game. Hamilton played briefly for Colorado and Fort Wayne during the 2008-09 season. As a junior at Clemson, he was named to the All ACC Defensive team and is Clemsons career and single-season steals leader.

To make room for Hamilton on the roster the Wizards waived guard Brandon Johnson due to injury. The roster currently stands at 10 players.

Courtesy of http://boxscorenews.com

Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Iowa E. 8-2 
 2. Erie Bay H. 6-3 
 3. Ft.Wayne MA 5-3 
 4. Sioux Falls S. 2-7 
 5. Dakota W. 1-9 
Southwest Division
 1. Texas L. 6-3 
 2. Austin T. 6-5 
 3. Rio Grande 5-4 
 4. Tulsa 66ers 5-4 
 5. New Mexico 5-4 
 6. Maine RC 3-6 
West Division
 1. Reno Bighorns 7-2 
 2. Bakersfield J. 6-4 
 3. Utah F. 5-5 
 4. Springfield A. 3-6 
 5. Idaho S. 2-8 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 25.8
 1. Johnson, Bakersfi.25.8 
 2. Greene, Utah F.22.7 
 3. Anderson, New M.22.1 
 4. Edwards, New M.20.0 
 5. Wilmont, Ft.Wayne.19.9 
 6. Jeffers, Iowa E.19.8 
 7. Ewing, Reno B.19.3 
 8. Johnson, Dakota W.19.2 
 9. Major, Dakota W.19.1 
 10. Kruger, Utah F.18.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Patrick PATTERSON
  Rio Grande
  (206-F-89)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Patterson, Rio G.10.3 
 2. Wheeler, Idaho S.9.9 
 3. Alexander, Texas L.9.8 
 4. Harris, Maine RC9.6 
 5. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.9.5 
 6. Johnson, Dakota W.9.4 
 7. Williams, Texas L.9.0 
 8. Gallon, Maine RC9.0 
 9. Sims, Iowa E.8.9 
 10. Pittman, Sioux F.8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Terrence WILLIAMS
  New Jersey N.
  (198-F-87)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Williams, Spring.10.7 
 2. Miles, Reno Bighorns9.8 
 3. Russell, Ft.Wayne.8.8 
 4. Stinson, Iowa E.8.6 
 5. Daniels, Texas L.7.9 
 6. Johnson, Austin T.6.7 
 7. Wise, Bakersfield J.5.9 
 8. Jackson, Erie B.5.8 
 9. Smith, Maine RC5.7 
 10. Kruger, Utah F.5.6 
Steals Per Game
 Zabian DOWDELL
  Tulsa 66ers
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers2.9 
 2. Jeffers, Iowa E.2.2 
 3. Ewing, Reno B.2.2 
 4. Blakely, Bakersfi.2.1 
 5. Hamilton, Utah F.2.1 
 6. Jackson, Erie B.2.1 
 7. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.2.1 
 8. Wilmont, Ft.Wayne.2.1 
 9. Linhart, Erie B.2.1 
 10. Kramer, Ft.Wayne.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Hassan WHITESIDE
  Reno Bighorns
  (213-F-89)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Whiteside, Reno B.3.8 
 2. Johnson, Dakota W.3.3 
 3. Alabi, Erie Bay H.3.0 
 4. Williams, Texas L.2.9 
 5. Naymick, Bakersfi.2.3 
 6. Sykes, Sioux F.2.1 
 7. Brackins, Spring.1.8 
 8. Goodridge, Spring.1.8 
 9. Wallace, Bakersfi.1.8 
 10. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.1.6 


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Caneros brushed aside by Halcones Xalapa - by Eurobasket News
Halcones Xalapa - Caneros 109:94

Halcones Xalapa recorded the first Liga Americas victory. They coasted past Caneros in the first game in Group B for both teams. Six Halcones players scored in double figures. Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) led the effort with 19 points.
Halcones Xalapa opened the game confidently. Roe and Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) drained triples to set the tempo. The hosts rallied comfortably to post a 26:15 lead ten minutes into the game. Halcones Xalapa did not slow down in the second quarter. The Mexican side unloaded 31 points to establish a 57:35 lead at the interval. Caneros finally managed to match the hosts effort in the third term. The Dominican Republic champions exploded with 30 points to stay hopeful. Caneros dominated the fourth period going for 29 points. But it was not enough to scare Halcones Xalapa. The home team enjoyed a massive cushion and rolled to the victory at the end. Louis Roe (200-F-72, college: Massachusetts) netted 17 points for Xalapa. Orlando Mendez-Valdez added 16 points and 8 assists in the win. Maurice Carter (183-G-83, college: Robert Morris) replied with 25 points for Caneros. Elys Guzman (206-F/C-82, college: Bemidji St.) had 18 points in the loss.

Halcones Xalapa: Hector Hernandez 19, Louis Roe 17, Orlando Mendez-Valdez 16
Caneros: Maurice Carter 25, Elys Guzman 18


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


Lukoil seal a place in the Last 16 of the EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
Lukoil Academic-Tartu Rock 74:64

Lukoil seal a place in the Last 16 of the EuroChallenge after another victory in the tournament. The Bulgarian squad rout Tartu Rock 74:64 for 4-1 record on top of Group C.
Georgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) made the first successful shot for the Estonian team, while Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown) tied the game in the opening tip. Lukoil Academic started to play better in the first frame and finished it with 17:6 as Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, agency: Alti Sport, college: UNLV) closed it from the free throw line. Stoykov increased to 20:6, but Sokk reduced it fast to 23:18. Travis Peterson (208-C-85, agency: Edge Sports, college: Samford) sent the teams to the lockers for 31:25 making the free throw at the end of the half. Heath drove a lay-up in the start of the third quarter and Heath gave the hosts 37:27 advantage. Kaspars Kambala delivered for 48:38, whilst Banev closed the period at 55:46. Estonian team did not panic and Rain Veideman (192-G-91) cut it to 61:57 with 5 minutes in the game. Lukoil Academic however needed an 8-0 run to take the things easier and then Kaspars Kambala scored for 71:59. Heath went on the free throw line to close the game at 74:64.
Kaspars Kambala paced all the winners with 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Brandon Bowman netted 18. Dominic James (180-G-86, college: Marquette) delivered 17 and Travis Peterson collected 7 points and 7 boards.

Lukoil Academic: Kaspars Kambala 19+13 rebs, Brandon Bowman 18, Dominic James 17, Travis Peterson 7+7 rebs
Tartu Rock: Georgi Tsintsadze 12, Rain Veideman 12, Janar Talts (205-C-83) 11

Standings - KML
EMKL Standings
 1. TU/Rock 14-1 
 2. Kalev/Cramo 13-2 
 3. TTU/Kalev 11-3 
 4. Rakvere 8-6 
 5. Rapla 6-9 
 6. Valga/CKE 5-10 
 7. TTU/Kalev II 5-11 
 8. Parnu 4-11 
 9. Voru KK 1-14 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kristo SAAGE
  Rakvere
  (184-G-85)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Saage, Rakvere18.5 
 2. Raap, Parnu18.1 
 3. Thornton, Voru KK17.9 
 4. Brown, Va.16.9 
 5. Erm, Rapla16.7 
 6. Vares, Va.15.9 
 7. Kuuba, Voru KK15.7 
 8. Pokla, Rakvere15.3 
 9. Arnold, TT.15.2 
 10. Tagamets, Va.14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Anthony BROWN
  Valga/CKE
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Brown, Va.12.3 
 2. Thornton, Voru KK11.7 
 3. Arnold, TT.10.4 
 4. Eziukwu, TU/Rock9.3 
 5. Osby, TT.9.1 
 6. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.8.8 
 7. Kuuba, Voru KK8.6 
 8. Ringmets, Rapla8.5 
 9. Pokla, Rakvere8.1 
 10. Hughes, TT.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Valmo KRIISA
  TTU/Kalev
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Kriisa, TT.3.8 
 2. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.8 
 3. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock3.5 
 4. Sokk, TU/Rock3.5 
 5. Oja, Va.3.3 
 6. Karner, Parnu3.3 
 7. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo3.2 
 8. Dorbek, Rakvere3.1 
 9. Winston, Va.3.1 
 10. Archibald, TT.2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Silver LEPPIK
  TU/Rock
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Leppik, TU/Rock2.3 
 2. Laane, Rapla2.3 
 3. Saage, Rakvere2.3 
 4. Veideman, TU/Rock2.2 
 5. Doronin, TU/Rock2.1 
 6. Dorbek, Rakvere2.1 
 7. Keedus, TT.2.1 
 8. Erm, Rapla1.9 
 9. Oja, Va.1.8 
 10. Pokla, Rakvere1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock2.4 
 2. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.6 
 3. Osby, TT.1.3 
 4. Raadik, Parnu1.0 
 5. Arnold, TT.0.9 
 6. Talts, TU/Rock0.9 
 7. Brown, Va.0.9 
 8. Saarmets, TTU/K.0.8 
 9. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.7 
 10. Ringmets, Rapla0.6 


EMKL Round 15: KK Parnu defeats Valga/CKE in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The closest game of round 15 was only one-point home defeat of 6th ranked Valga/CKE (5-10) to eighth ranked KK Parnu (4-11) 70-71. The guests trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 24-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely Valga/CKE outrebounded KK Parnu 48-33 including 37 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for power forward Taavi Hamarsalu (199-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Rannar Raap (187-92) helped adding 17 points and 5 rebounds. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Ando Tagamets (200-79) with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Despite the victory KK Parnu stay at eighth position. Valga/CKE is currently in sixth place with a 5-10 record as they suffered their tenth loss. KK Parnu are looking forward to face higher ranked BC Rakvere (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Valga/CKE will play against Rapla and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very significant was Kalev/Cramo's (#2) 33-point home victory against 4th placed BC Rakvere 104-71. It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Rait Keerles (201-80) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. Gregor Arbet accounted for 17 points. Power forward Taavi Hamarsalu (199-89) came up with 16 points for BC Rakvere in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Kalev/Cramo (13-2) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. Despite the win they stay at second position having just one point less than leader TU/Rock. BC Rakvere is currently in fourth place with a 8-6 record as they suffered their sixth loss. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Tallinn to the arena TTU/Kalev.
EMKL top team - TU/Rock (14-1) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they crushed fifth ranked Rapla (6-9) in Tartu 84-61. The best player for the winners was Vallo Allingu who scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Heigo Erm who recorded 16 points. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the eleventh consecutive win for TU/Rock. Current champion stay at first position. Rapla is currently in fifth place with a 6-9 record as they suffered their ninth loss. TU/Rock will meet BC Rakvere (#4) at home in the next round. Rapla will play against Valga/CKE and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 15 Bottom-ranked Voru KK was destroyed by TTU/Kalev II on the opponent's court 77-56.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 32 points and 15 rebounds by Andrais Thornton of Voru KK.

TTU/Kalev II - Voru KK 77-56

Rather expected game in Tallinn where 9th ranked Voru KK (1-14) was crushed by seventh ranked TTU/Kalev II (5-11) 77-56 on Sunday. The game without a history. TTU/Kalev II led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. TTU/Kalev II forced 20 Voru KK turnovers. The best player for the winners was American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) who had a double-double by scoring 14 points and 15 rebounds. Guard Siim Raudla (179-90) chipped in 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Four TTU/Kalev II players scored in double figures. TTU/Kalev II's coach Indrek Reinbok felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was American center Andrais Thornton (203-85, college: NW Missouri St.) who recorded a double-double by scoring 32 points and 15 rebounds and forward Allar Velleramm (191-87) added 9 points and 9 rebounds respectively. Despite the victory TTU/Kalev II stay at seventh position. Voru KK is currently on the bottom place with a 1-14 record as they suffered their fourteenth loss. TTU/Kalev II's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Tallinn to the arena .
Top scorers:
TTU/Kalev II: M.Saarmets 15+3reb, A.Arnold 14+15reb, S.Raudla 11+6reb+5ast, I.Tulit 11+6reb, K.Akenparg 10+2reb+2ast, M.Kaja 8+10reb+1ast
Voru KK: A.Thornton 32+15reb, A.Velleramm 9+9reb+1ast, T.Kimask 7+4reb+2ast, S.Kuuba 4+5reb+1ast, R.Raudsepp 2+1reb, M.Niklus 2+4reb+1ast
gschID: 109066


Valga/CKE - Parnu 70-71

The closest game of round 15 was only one-point a home defeat of 6th ranked Valga/CKE (5-10) to eighth ranked KK Parnu (4-11) 70-71. The guests trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 24-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely Valga/CKE outrebounded KK Parnu 48-33 including 37 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for power forward Taavi Hamarsalu (199-89) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Rannar Raap (187-92) helped adding 17 points and 5 rebounds. Four KK Parnu players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Ando Tagamets (200-79) with 20 points and 9 rebounds and American forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 14 rebounds. Despite the victory KK Parnu stay at eighth position. Valga/CKE is currently in sixth place with a 5-10 record as they suffered their tenth loss. KK Parnu are looking forward to face higher ranked BC Rakvere (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Valga/CKE will play against Rapla and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Parnu: T.Hamarsalu 18+7reb, R.Raap 17+5reb+1ast, E.Tamsalu 16+6reb+1ast, R.Karner 12+7reb+2ast, T.Raadik 9+7reb+1ast, M.Paasoja 2
Valga/CKE: A.Tagamets 20+9reb+2ast, T.Oja 19+7reb+3ast, A.Brown 12+14reb+3ast, V.Vares 9+6reb+2ast, R.Petersonig 8+5reb+1ast, R.Rebane 2+5reb
gschID: 109067


Kalev/Cramo - Rakvere 104-71

Very significant was Kalev/Cramo's (#2) 33-point home victory against 4th placed BC Rakvere 104-71. The game was rather controlled by Kalev/Cramo. BC Rakvere managed to win second quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kalev/Cramo outrebounded BC Rakvere 35-23 including a 27-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Kalev/Cramo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. BC Rakvere was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Rait Keerles (201-80) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. International swingman Gregor Arbet (194-83) accounted for 17 points for the winning side. Four Kalev/Cramo players scored in double figures. Power forward Taavi Hamarsalu (199-89) came up with 16 points and Canadian-Jamaican forward Richard Anderson (199-77, college: Simon Fraser) added 7 points and 6 rebounds respectively for BC Rakvere in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Kalev/Cramo (13-2) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. Despite the win they stay at second position having just one point less than leader TU/Rock. BC Rakvere is currently in fourth place with a 8-6 record as they suffered their sixth loss. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Tallinn to the arena TTU/Kalev.
Top scorers:
Kalev/Cramo: G.Arbet 17+1reb+2ast, R.Keerles 16+8reb, R.Tamm 15+4reb+1ast, K.Saks 13+4reb, G.Dorbek 10+2reb+2ast, T.Sokk 9+8ast
Rakvere: V.Viljar 16+4reb+1ast, K.Saage 11+1reb, M.Hall 11, R.Anderson 7+6reb, H.Frier 6+2reb+1ast, B.McGee 6+1reb
gschID: 109068


TU/Rock - Rapla 84-61

EMKL top team - TU/Rock (14-1) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they crushed fifth ranked Rapla (6-9) in Tartu 84-61. The game without a history. TU/Rock led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. TU/Rock shot 22 for 30 from the free-throw line, while Rapla only scored six points from the stripe. TU/Rock forced 21 Rapla turnovers. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when TU/Rock made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was the former international center Vallo Allingu (206-78) who scored 20 points and 7 rebounds. American power forward Callistus Eziukwu (208-85, college: Grand Valley St.) chipped in 8 points and 14 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was swingman Heigo Erm (190-80) who recorded 16 points and forward Indrek Kajupank (197-88) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the eleventh consecutive win for TU/Rock. Current champion stay at first position. Rapla is currently in fifth place with a 6-9 record as they suffered their ninth loss. TU/Rock will meet BC Rakvere (#4) at home in the next round. Rapla will play against Valga/CKE and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
TU/Rock: V.Allingu 20+7reb+2ast, R.Veideman 12+1reb+1ast, G.Tsintsadze 8+5reb+4ast, C.Eziukwu 8+14reb+2ast, T.Eichfuss 8+4reb, S.Leppik 8+1reb
Rapla: H.Erm 16+1reb+2ast, S.Kaldre 10+5reb+1ast, I.Kajupank 10+6reb+1ast, R.Laane 7+3reb+2ast, R.Ringmets 7+10reb, J.Montgomery 4+3reb
gschID: 109065




*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Adrian BANKS
  Elitzur Netanya
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 23.6
 1. Banks, Elitzur .23.6 
 2. Abukar, Lugano T.20.9 
 3. Trotter, Szolnok19.6 
 4. Hopkins, Antwerp19.4 
 5. Kjellbom, Norrkoping18.0 
 6. Shabalkin, Dynamo17.8 
 7. Anderson, Ventspils17.8 
 8. Zoric, KK.17.6 
 9. Lewis, M.Hainaut17.3 
 10. Paunic, N.Novgorod17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Furkan ALDEMIR
  Karsiyaka
  (205-F-91)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Aldemir, Karsiyaka11.7 
 2. Eziukwu, TU/Rock10.6 
 3. Landry, BK Prost.10.3 
 4. Massey, Lokomotiv9.6 
 5. Smith, Karsiyaka9.3 
 6. Bader, Szolnok9.0 
 7. Kjellbom, Norrkoping9.0 
 8. Booker, Krka9.0 
 9. Clark, Szolnok9.0 
 10. Zoric, KK.8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Adrian BLIDARU
  Ploiesti
  (182-G-85)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Blidaru, Ploiesti7.5 
 2. Mays, Fe.7.0 
 3. Williams, Enisey6.5 
 4. Millage, Khimik6.2 
 5. Linehan, Nancy5.9 
 6. Brener, Elitzur .5.8 
 7. Trotter, Szolnok5.4 
 8. Ponkrashov, Spart.5.2 
 9. Mitchell, Norrkoping5.0 
 10. Wood, Dt.5.0 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 4
 1. Linehan, Nancy4.0 
 2. Mims, Nancy3.5 
 3. McKee, Minsk-20063.5 
 4. Johnson, Aalstar3.0 
 5. Dabkus, Etha2.6 
 6. Eldridge, Karsiyaka2.5 
 7. Vladovic, Zadar2.4 
 8. Millage, Khimik2.3 
 9. Petrovic, Oostende2.2 
 10. Renfroe, KK.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Anthony KING
  Etha
  (206-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. King, Etha2.3 
 2. Mejri, Antwerp2.0 
 3. Young, Aalstar2.0 
 4. Akpomedah, Grave.1.8 
 5. Aldemir, Karsiyaka1.7 
 6. Clark, Szolnok1.7 
 7. Issa, Gravelines1.6 
 8. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.6 
 9. Bader, Szolnok1.6 
 10. Smith, Karsiyaka1.5 


Standings
EuroChallenge Standings
Group A
 1. Spartak SP 4-1 
 2. Szolnok 3-2 
 3. Gravelines 2-3 
 4. N.Novgorod 1-4 
Group B
 1. Macc.Haifa 3-1 
 2. Ventspils 3-2 
 3. Dt.Bank SKY 2-3 
 4. Khimik 1-3 
Group C
 1. Lukoil A. 4-1 
 2. Benfica 3-2 
 3. Lugano Tigers 2-3 
 4. TU/Rock 1-4 
Group D
 1. Netanya 3-2 
 2. Norrkoping 3-2 
 3. Liege 3-2 
 4. T.Telekom 1-4 
Group E
 1. Krka 4-1 
 2. BK Prostejov 4-1 
 3. Telekom B. 2-3 
 4. KK Zagreb CO 0-5 
Group F
 1. Lokomotiv K. 4-1 
 2. Antwerp 3-2 
 3. Steaua Turabo 2-3 
 4. Dynamo M. 1-4 
Group G
 1. Karsiyaka 4-1 
 2. Zadar 2-3 
 3. APOEL 2-3 
 4. Etha 2-3 
Group H
 1. M.Hainaut 3-2 
 2. Nancy 3-2 
 3. Oostende 3-2 
 4. Orleans 1-4 


EuroChallenge Round: 5 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Spartak SP - Gravelines 85-77
Spartak St Petersburg grabbed their ticket to the Last 16 of the EuroChallenge. The Russian team overcame BCM Gravelines Dunkerque 85:77 for 4-1 record in Group A. The French side meanwhile will battle at home with Hungarians Szolnoki for the second qualifying spot from the pool for the next phase of the competition. The Russian team opened the game with 5-0 record and Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86) made it 8:2. Frejus Zerbo (206-C-89) however tied it all at 10:10, while he also gave his side the first lead at 11:10. BCM Gravelines Dunkerque won the first period 19:18 and then Greer started the second frame with 23:18. Spartak however pushed the tempo in the end of the quarter and took 42:36 at the halftime. Another 25-22 in the third frame allowed the home side to enjoy 67:58 after 30 minutes. Zupan increased to 71:60, while Anton Ponkrashov kept the difference at 73:62. Anton Ponkrashov later scored for 80:67 and it became clear that the hosts would benefit from the game. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) nailed three at the very end and Greer closed the game for the guests. Domercant stepped up with 21 points for the winners and Zupan added 15. Pero Antic followed them with 12 points for the top of the group. Greer ended up with 16 points in the losing effort as the French side dropped to 2-3. DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.)side followed him with 15 points and Frejus Zerbo added 12.

N.Novgorod - Szolnok 76-62
Nizhny Novgorod celebrated the initial victory in EuroChallenge this season tonight. The Russian team rolled over Szolnoki Olaj 76:62 for 1-4 record on the bottom of Group A. Szolnoki Olaj dropped to 3-2 record but still has the chance to advance to the top 16 of the tournament. Obie Trotter (186-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Alabama A&M) nailed three in the start of the game and Horvath made it 16:11. Paunic later closed the period at 18:19 giving a chance for the hosts in the game. Nizhny Novgorod trailed midway through the second quarter but a Plisnic three-ball triggered an 11-0 run that put them in front to stay. Ivanov scored for 37:28 and Obie Trotter sent the teams to the lockers at 37:30. Bader meanwhile started the third frame with a jump shot and Marton Fodor (191-G-81, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) added two for 44:39. The Russian team stayed tough and won the quarter 15-11 to take 52:41 after 30 minutes in the court. Plisnic opened the last stanza from the perimeter and Ivanov added for 57:44. Bader and Clark reduced to 69:59 with 1 minute in the game and Obie Trotter became the last player to score for the guests. Antonov scored the last 4 points for the winning team as Nizhny Novgorod celebrated the initial victory in EuroChallenge. Plisnic paced all the winners with 19 points and Paunic scored 12. Yakovenko netted 11, whilst Golovin added 7. Obie Trotter ended up with 21 points in defeat, whilst Bader collected 17 points and 11 rebounds.

Group B
Khimik - Maccabi Haifa 77-81
Maccabi Haifa edged Khimik away from home to get 3-1 record in EuroChallenge Group B. The Israeli team won 81:77 and will meet the Ukrainian team again on Thursday in the postponed game from Round 2. Ukrainian side surprisingly started with 5-0 run as Sylven Landesberg (198-G-90, college: Virginia) later closed an 8-0 run for the guests. O'Bannon made it 14:12 and Sylven Landesberg nailed three to close the period at 26:19. The latter also opened the second frame for 28:19 but Millage tied it all at 32:32. Alexander Kolchenko (198-F/G-88) gave Ukrainian side 36:34, while the board showed 43:38 halftime advantage for Haifa team. More than 1000 fans in Yuzhniy saw the comeback of the local team in the third frame as Khimik needed 22-18 to trail only 60:61 after 30 minutes. Moreover Howard nailed three to open the last stanza and gave the hosst 63:61 lead. Another three-pointer from the player showed 66:62 but Killingsworth closed an 8-0 run for the guests that took 70:62 midway through the quarter. No matter how hard the Ukrainian team tried to recover they could not catch up with the opponent. Killingsworth erupted with 25 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and Sylven Landesberg added 17. O'Bannon netted 13, while Bratic scored 11. Bizaca ended up with 18 points as the Ukrainian team covers the bottom with 1-3 record. Bavcic posted 14 and Alexander Kolchenko added 12.

Dt.Bank SKY - Ventspils 72-71
D. Bank Skyliners outscored BK Ventspils in Group B of the EuroChallenge to keep the chances alive for Top 16. The German Powerhouse grabbed 72:71 and improved to 2-3 record, while the Baltic side is with 3-2 record. Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) opened the game with a jump shot and Arturs Berzins (204-C-88, agency: FCM) added two for 6:2 lead. Roller however closed the first period for 18:15 lead for the German side. In the second frame the squads exchanged the leads several times as the hosts again were luckier in the end of the quarter. DaShaun Wood nailed three for 35:31, whilst Saulius Kuzminskas closed the half at 35:33. Arturs Berzins immediately gave the guests 36:35 and then Bahiense de Mello scored for 45:41. Bucknor increased the lead for 50:41 and Roller nailed three for 53:46. BK Ventspils meanwhile closed the period at 11-2 run as Saulius Kuzminskas brought them 57:55 advantage after 30 minutes. It seemed the guests were closer to the win when Gulbis brought 68:61, but the hosts did not give up. Muurinen tied it all at 70:70 with 2 minutes to go, but Gulbis gave the guests 71:70. DaShaun Wood delivered the win for the home side as he was perfect from the free throw line to give Bank Skyliners72:71 valuable victory. DaShaun Wood stepped up with 27 points for the second victory in the tournament. Roller nailed 13 and Robertson notched 8. Anderson replied with 15 points for the Baltic team as they suffered their second loss. Saulius Kuzminskas collected 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Gulbis added 12.

Group C
Lugano Tigers - Benfica 74-52
Lugano Basket turned in an impressive display to easily see off Lisboa e Benfica in Switzerland. The Swiss side celebrated 74:52 win to keep the chances alive for Sweet 16. Lugano must win at Lukoil in Sofia, Bulgaria, and hope that Tartu beat the Portuguese team in Estonia. Stockalper opened the game from the perimeter and Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: San Diego St.) made a free throw for 11:6. The hosts started to increase the lead and Mladjan closed the period at 20:13. There was no let up in the second period as the hosts produced 21-11 in the frame. Mladjan nailed three for 36:16 midway through the quarter and Minhava was the last to post in the half for 41:24. Lugano Basket continued to pile on the points during the third quarter as Mohammed Abukar scored for 52:31. Mladjan later made a jump shot and then closed the quarter from the free throw line at 61:37. Lisboa e Benfica played better in the last frame but it was little more than stat-sheet filling for the well-beaten visitors. Mascarenhas reduced to 70:43 and Reed nailed three for 74:52 at the end of the game. Mohammed Abukar stepped up with 18 points for the winners and Mladjan netted 15. Draughan and Sanders followed them with 9 points apiece in the winning effort. Evora scored 14 in defeat and Tavares netted 8.

Lukoil Academik - TU/Rock 74-64
Lukoil seal a place in the Last 16 of the EuroChallenge after another victory in the tournament. The Bulgarian squad rout Tartu Rock 74:64 for 4-1 record on top of Group C. Tsintsadze made the first successful shot for the Estonian team, while Bowman tied the game in the opening tip. Lukoil Academic started to play better in the first frame and finished it with 17:6 as Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, agency: Alti Sport, college: UNLV) closed it from the free throw line. Stoykov increased to 20:6, but Sokk reduced it fast to 23:18. Peterson sent the teams to the lockers for 31:25 making the free throw at the end of the half. Heath drove a lay-up in the start of the third quarter and Heath gave the hosts 37:27 advantage. Kaspars Kambala delivered for 48:38, whilst Banev closed the period at 55:46. Estonian team did not panic and Rain Veideman (192-G-91) cut it to 61:57 with 5 minutes in the game. Lukoil Academic however needed an 8-0 run to take the things easier and then Kaspars Kambala scored for 71:59. Heath went on the free throw line to close the game at 74:64. Kaspars Kambala paced all the winners with 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Bowman netted 18. Dominic James delivered 17 and Peterson collected 7 points and 7 boards.

Group D
Liege - Turk Telekom 79-83
After losing their first four games in Group D, Turk Telekom surprised Liege in Belgium in Round 5 of EuroChallenge. The Turkish side grabbed 1-4 record due to 83:79 win as they had massive 28-11 third period. The result has left Barak Netanya, Norrkoping Dolphins and Liege with 3-2 records going into the last week of Regular Season games. While it may have left the home fans with a sour taste in their mouth nothing could take away from the competitiveness of the match. Jenkins and Griffin gave Belgacom Liege 7:2 lead and Stipanovic scored for 11:5.Becirovic made two free throws for 21:16 and Len Matela (206-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Bowling Green) nailed three for 26:19. Guy Muya (190-G-83, agency: LBM Management) increase to 33:23, while Papac kept the difference at 41:31 at the end of the half. The third quarter was a night mare for the hosts that were swept by the opponents. Turk Telekom erupted with 28-11 for 59:52 at the end of thirty minutes. Simpson scored for 74:66 and Becirovic brought 80:73. He also made the last free throws for his team that won the initial game. Becirovic paced all the winners with 24 points and Ceyhun Altay (196-G/F-86, agency: Court Side) netted 17. Stiemsma collected 11 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Yagmur added 10. Collette finished the night with 13 points, while Jenkins 1and Gillet posted 11 each in defeat.

Norrkoping - Elitzur Netanya 70-64
Norrkoping Dolphins have joined a group of clubs on top of Group D EuroChallenge following a 70:64 home win over Barak Netanya. The latter as well as the Swedish side plus Liege all have 3-2 records and will find out two winners to go to Sweet 16 next week. Things had started so brightly for the hosts that scored the first five points in their game. Barak Netanya however needed their time and won the end of the quarter for 25:23 lead. Gur made two free throws for 27:23 and Younger added twp for 29:25 in the beginning of the second period. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79, college: N.Arizona) meanwhile brought 6 points in a row for the home side to taste 31:29 lead with them. Adrian Banks (191-G-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) on the other side nailed three to close the quarter at 36:33. After the break it was a totally different story although it did take the hosts some time to get going. At first Brown brought 45:35 on the board, while Joakim Kjellbom closed a 5-0 run at 45:40. Moreover Mitchell was the last to score in the frame for 49:48 after 30 minutes. The Swedish representative erupted with 22-15 in the last frame to seal the victory. They also tightened up defensively holding Barak Netanya to just two points in the last three minutes. Adrian Banks made the jump shot in the end of the game for the final result. Joakim Kjellbom was unstoppable with 27 points and 10 rebounds for the third win. Mitchell notched 16 and Gaidamavicius posted 8. Adrian Banks ended up with 20 points in the losing case and Brown collected 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Group E
BK Prostejov - Telekom Baskets 86-63
Erasing any doubts about their place as the leaders of Group E, BK Prostejov put on a show as they blew past visiting Telekom Baskets Bonn 86-63 tonight in the Czech Republic. Bonn started off well as they opened the game on a 7-0 run before a Eugene Lawrence layup broke the scoreless streak for the hosts at the 7:45 mark. A Benas Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) three with 15 seconds to go would help the hosts close the quarter up 22-16. Benas Veikalas led Prostejov with 11 first-half points while young German big man Tim Ohlbrecht paced Bonn with 12. The second half was a different story. Once Prostejov stretched their lead to double-digits at the four minute mark of the third quarter (49-39), they would not look back as they cruised for an easy 86-63 victory. Benas Benas Veikalas led the way, scoring a game-high 19 points, while Ohlbrecht finished with a solid double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. For Prostejov, this is only the second time in club history that they have progressed pas the group stage of a European competition. In 2006-07 they advanced to the quarterfinals of the EuroChallenge before falling to Kervanos of Cyprus in the quarterfinals. Bonn now need KK Zagreb (0-4) to do them a favor on Tuesday and beat Krka (3-1) or else their faint hopes of progressing to the Last 16 will vanish. (by Surujh Roopnarine)

KK Zagreb CO - Krka 75-78
Krka continues their debut surprising year and EuroChallenge and already advance to Top 16 with 1 game remaining. The Slovenian team overcame KK Zagreb 78:75 for 4-1 record. The hosts started the game with 4-0 run and Renfroe scored for 9:7. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) brought 13:9, while Damir Mulaomerovic (195-G-74, agency: FCM) closed the period with a three for 21:17. Ikonic, Krivec and Drobnjak scored for 25:23 in the start of the second period, while Babic closed the 11-0 run for his team as Zagreb took 34:27 halftime advantage. Djordjevic's team responded with 8-0 run as he closed the half at 34:34. Luka Zoric made two free throws in the beginning of the third quarter and then the squads exchanged the leads several times. Luka Zoric was also the last to score in the third frame for 52:50 advantage as Zagreb won the third quarter 18-16. Trailing 56:62, Krka needed a 9-0 run for 65:62 lead with 4.30 in the game. Booker scored two for 74:68 and Petrov gave his side 78:72. Simon nailed three at the very end but it was not enough for the total win. Luka Zoric top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Damir Mulaomerovic posted 17. Simon netted 14, while Renfroe added 10. Ikonic finished the night with 23 points in the losing effort as the team from Croatia remains winless. Booker and Drobnjak followed him with 11 points each in defeat.

Group F
Dynamo - Lokomotiv 67-78
Lokomotiv Kuban sealed the EuroChallenge Last 16 birth. They overcame Dynamo in Moscow for the fourth win in Group F. Michael Wilkinson stepped up with 17 points and 10 rebounds to pace the effort. Nikita Shabalkin opened the game with a three-pointer but Dynamo did not capitalize. Chalmers and Jeremiah Massey gave Lokomotiv a 20:15 lead late in the period. Grigoryev and Alando Tucker stretched the gap to 8 points midway through the second frame. Chalmers, Alando Tucker and Jeremiah Massey kept Lokomotiv at safe distance as the visitors earned a 40:33 advantage at halftime. Vasili Zavoruev (196-G-87) and Eugeny Voronov (192-G-86) drained back-to-back triples midway through the third term as Dynamo cut the deficit at just three points. Lokomotiv reacted with a 5:0 run of their own to restore some breathing space. The visitors rallied to a 56:49 advantage with one quarter to go. Jeretin, Alando Tucker and Michael Wilkinson ensured a 64:53 lead for Lokomotiv early in the final term and they never looked back en route to the victory. Jeremiah Massey provided 15 points for Lokomotiv. Alando Tucker delivered 13 points in the victory. Nikita Shabalkin replied with 21 points for Dynamo. Eugeny Voronov had 19 points in the losing effort.

Antwerp - Steaua Turabo 78-65
Antwerp recorded the third win in EuroChallenge. This one came as the most valuable as Antwerp secured their birth in Last 16 round of the tournament. Steaua-Turabo entered the game having a 5-point buffer after the home game. But the Giants easily overcame the cushion and registered the necessary victory. So now the Romanian powerhouse have no chance of reaching the second position in the ladder. The teams traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. Strickland capped the frame with a jumper to level things up at 20. Antwerp went on a 12:2 rally early in the second term to spur in front. Bryan Hopkins (183-G-83, college: SMU) then converted a four-point play to ensure a 12-point lead for the Giants. Antwerp secured a 44:32 halftime lead. Courtney Fortson (180-G-88, college: Arkansas) dropped a pair of three-pointers midway through the third term to keep Steaua-Turabo hopeful. But the hosts stayed persistent as they ensured a 61:51 lead with one quarter remaining. Courtney Fortson kept on fighting for the visitors as he dragged Steaua-Turabo within 8 points early in the final term. Antwerp answered with 8 points in a row and never looked back en route to the victory. Bryan Hopkins delivered 24 points for Antwerp. Darnell Wilson contributed 18 points in the victory. Virgil Stanescu answered with game-high 27 points for Steaua-Turabo. Hristo Nikolov and Courtney Fortson had 12 points in defeat.

Group G
Karsiyaka - Etha 85-67
Pinar Karsiyaka advanced to Sweet 16 of the EuroChallenge as the squad celebrated another victory. The Turkish side grabbed 4-1 record on top of Group G after convincing 85:67 win over Etha. The visitors started sloppily with some turnovers inside the first couple of minutes and a score by Eldridge handed the hosts the lead at 23:16 in the end of the period. Stanojevic brought 29:21 and another five points from the player showed 35:26. Erdogan nailed three to close the half at 49:39 as the hosts won the period 26-23. In the third quarter Holston made it 58:46 and Stanojevic closed the frame at 64:52. Pinar Karsiyaka were much improved in the fourth period and having looked like they might get blown out early, they rallied and stepped things up much to the frustration. With 21-15 they finished the last quarter to seal the fourth win in the group. Holston top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Stanojevic added 19. Smith finished the night with 11 points and Furkan Aldemir (205-F-91) had 8 points and 10 rebounds. King erupted with 27 points in the losing effort as his team has 2-3 record as well as Nicosia side Apoel and BC Zadar. Tutt posted 12 and Dabkus delivered 11.

APOEL - Zadar 61-56
Apoel beat Zadar in Nicosia to tie both records in Group G of EuroChallange. The team from Cyprus enjoyed 61:56 victory to stay alive for Sweet 16. Next week, Apoel will host Group G leaders Pinar Karsiyaka while Zadar must square off against ETHA Encomi. Both sides traded baskets throughout the early going and then Tiggs nailed three for 10:7. The home side maintained their lead to head into the second period leading 20:7. Buljan continued the run in the start of the second frame and Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) reduced to 22:9. Ivanov drove a lay-up for 29:21 and Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G-89) closed the period at 36:24. Tiggs made a jump shot to open the third quarter, while Jakov Vladovic and Car nailed threes each for 40:32. Ivanov later reduced to 47:41 and Tomas closed the period at 53:43. In the final quarter of play the Zadar tried valiantly to get themselves back into the game. Jakov Vladovic managed to cut it to 56:52, while he made another free throw for 59:53. Apoel however won the game due to the last basket of Buljan. Tiggs paced all the winners with 19 points for the valuable victory. Hanavan collected 15 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Lee added 10. Jakov Vladovic replied with 24 points in defeat and Car netted 11.

Group H
Nancy - M.Hainaut 79-82
Dexia stayed in the quest for EuroChallenge Last 16 birth after they defeated Nancy on the road. Ron Lewis scored 18 points to lead the Belgian team. Dexia entered a three-team tie on top of Group H ladder. Dexia, Nancy and Oostende all knotted up at 3-2 record and stay in the fight for two spots in Last 16. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the opening period. Ronell Taylor capped the period with a jumper to secure a 22:20 lead for Dexia. Bellin organized a 9:0 run from the visitors as Dexia built a 31:22 advantage midway through the second quarter. Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) notched six points to keep Nancy in the game. The hosts cut the deficit at just three points at halftime 39:42. Nancy unleashed a 13:0 rally early in the third term to spur in front. Ron Lewis and Justin Cage stopped the bleeding for Dexia. The visitors tied the score at 64 late in the period before Linehan gave Nancy a 66:64 lead with one quarter remaining. Justin Cage and Ron Lewis put Dexia back in front midway through the final stanza. Njumoluh tried to drag Nancy back in this one but Ron Lewis came up accurate from the stripe and then Stephen Brun (202-F-80) and Akingbala missed a bunch of jumpers as Dexia sealed the winning outcome. Peter Van Paassen had 17 points for Dexia. Ronell Taylor and Justin Cage added 13 points each in the victory. Tremmell Darden answered with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Nancy. Stephen Brun finished with 18 points in the loss.

Orleans - Oostende 70-72
Oostende heated up the intrigue in EuroChallenge Group H. They narrowly defeated Orleans in France to enter a three-team tie on top of the ladder. Oostende, Nancy and Dexia are heading into the last round of the regular season leveled at 3-2 record. Orleans in the meantime got eliminated falling at 1-4 record. Matt Lojeski (198-G-85, college: Hawaii) hit a game-winning jumper to propel Oostende to the important victory in France yesterday. The teams stayed close before Ludovic Vaty (206-C-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) knocked down four free throws giving Orleans a 15:10 lead late in the first quarter. Orleans stayed in charge as they entered the second period up by three points 17:14. Aldo Curti and Ludovic Vaty gave the hosts a 7-point lead midway through the second period. Orleans arrived at halftime up by 6 points 37:31. Ludovic Vaty and Troy Bell ensured a double-digit lead midway through the third quarter. Marcus Faison (196-G-78, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Siena) and Thomas narrowed the deficit at 8-point mark with one quarter remaining. Katnic triggered a 10:2 run from the visitors at the start of the fourth term as Orleans leveled things up at 58. The teams traded baskets before Matt Lojeski tied the score at 70 with six seconds to go. Reynolds then committed a turnover and Matt Lojeski punished the hosts hitting a game-winner. Caleb Green fired 18 points to lead the effort. Matthew Matt Lojeski added 14 points in the victory. Ludovic Vaty answered with 16 points for Orleans. Aldo Curti and Troy Bell netted 10 points each in the loss.



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


Benetton center Sandro Nicevic out with wrist injury - by Eurobasket News
Benetton Bwin Treviso has suffered a major blow with the news that former All-Eurocup center Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) will be out indefinitely with a wrist injury. Nicevic, who previously had a problem with his right wrist, will now undergo surgery to repair a ligament problem in his left wrist. He is expected to miss several months. Nicevic started the first four Eurocup games of the season and averaged 8.3 points and 3.5 rebounds for Benetton in his fourth season with the team.

Courtesy of www.eurocupbasketball.com

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


Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Maccabi T-A 7-1 
 2. Zalgiris 5-4 
 3. Partizan 5-4 
 4. Caja Laboral 4-5 
 5. Khimky 3-5 
 6. Asseco Prokom 2-7 
Group B
 1. Olympiakos 6-3 
 2. Real Madrid 5-4 
 3. Unicaja 5-4 
 4. Lottomatica 5-4 
 5. Charleroi 3-6 
 6. Brose Baskets 3-6 
Group C
 1. Montepaschi 7-1 
 2. Fener.Ulker 6-2 
 3. Regal Barca 6-2 
 4. Cholet 4-5 
 5. Lietuvos Rytas 2-6 
 6. Cibona 0-9 
Group D
 1. Panathinaikos 6-3 
 2. Union Olimpija 6-3 
 3. Efes Pilsen 5-4 
 4. Armani MI 4-4 
 5. Valencia 3-5 
 6. CSKA 2-7 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Bojan BOGDANOVIC
  Cibona
  (202-G/F-89)
  Avg: 16.9
 1. Bogdanovic, Cibona16.9 
 2. Teletovic, Caja L.16.8 
 3. Jenkins, ALBA16.8 
 4. Langford, Khimky16.4 
 5. Rakocevic, Efes P.15.9 
 6. Allen, ALBA15.8 
 7. Spanoulis, Olympiakos15.1 
 8. Mejia, Cholet14.9 
 9. Ukic, Fener.Ulker14.8 
 10. Barac, Caja Laboral14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Paulius JANKUNAS
  Zalgiris
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Jankunas, Zalgiris7.4 
 2. Bourousis, Olympiakos7.2 
 3. Barac, Caja Laboral7.0 
 4. Freeland, Unicaja6.9 
 5. Gist, Partizan6.9 
 6. Turkcan, Fener.Ul.6.8 
 7. Fischer, Real Madrid6.6 
 8. Pleiss, Brose B.6.6 
 9. Falker, Cholet6.3 
 10. Wright, Charleroi6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja Laboral
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Huertas, Caja L.5.9 
 2. Diamantidis, Panath.5.7 
 3. Spanoulis, Olympiakos5.0 
 4. Blakney, Unicaja4.8 
 5. Teodosic, Olympiakos4.7 
 6. Eidson, Maccabi .4.5 
 7. Cook, Valencia4.3 
 8. Pellin, Le Mans4.2 
 9. Rodriguez, Unicaja4.1 
 10. Ilievski, Union O.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Chuck EIDSON
  Maccabi T-A
  (201-F/G-80)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Eidson, Maccabi .3.4 
 2. McCalebb, Montepas.2.5 
 3. Perkins, Maccabi .2.5 
 4. Diot, Le Mans2.2 
 5. Ilievski, Union O.2.1 
 6. Goldsberry, Brose B.2.0 
 7. Rubio, Regal Barca2.0 
 8. Diamantidis, Panath.1.9 
 9. Hawkins, Armani MI1.9 
 10. Jenkins, ALBA1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Mirza BEGIC
  Zalgiris
  (216-C-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Begic, Zalgiris2.3 
 2. Fischer, Real Madrid2.0 
 3. Riddick, Charleroi1.8 
 4. Pleiss, Brose B.1.4 
 5. Eze, Khimky1.4 
 6. Barac, Caja Laboral1.4 
 7. Lishchuk, Valencia1.3 
 8. Falker, Cholet1.3 
 9. Bourousis, Olympiakos1.2 
 10. Hines, Brose B.1.1 


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


Standings - ProB
ProB Standings
 1. Evreux 11-2 
 2. Nanterre 11-2 
 3. Dijon 9-4 
 4. Boulazac 8-5 
 5. Fos Ouest 8-5 
 6. Rouen 8-5 
 7. Lille 7-6 
 8. Chalons-Reims 7-6 
 9. Maurienne 7-6 
 10. Boulogne 6-7 
 11. Le Portel 6-7 
 12. Bourg 5-8 
 13. Antibes 5-8 
 14. Nantes 5-8 
 15. St Vallier 4-9 
 16. Clermont 4-9 
 17. Charleville 3-10 
 18. Quimper 3-10 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 Andre HARRIS
  Lille
  (201-F/C-85)
  Avg: 17.5
 1. Harris, Lille17.5 
 2. Gay, Fos Ouest17.5 
 3. Sonko, Maurienne17.5 
 4. Ingram, Antibes17.2 
 5. Carter, Nanterre17.1 
 6. Davis, Le Portel16.4 
 7. Daniels, Nanterre16.3 
 8. Cummard, Fos Ouest15.8 
 9. Siggers, Rouen15.8 
 10. Reed, Evreux15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Korvotney BARBER
  Nantes
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Barber, Nantes10.7 
 2. Mathis, Maurienne10.0 
 3. Daniels, Chalons-.9.5 
 4. Bing, Dijon9.2 
 5. Monds, Bourg9.1 
 6. Monroe, Boulogne8.6 
 7. Giles, Rouen8.5 
 8. Sneed, Maurienne7.9 
 9. Sonko, Maurienne7.7 
 10. Rouse, Charleville7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Da Silva, Evreux8.8 
 2. Downey, Nantes6.3 
 3. Taylor, Rouen5.5 
 4. Denave, St Vallier5.5 
 5. Craven, Dijon5.2 
 6. Ingram, Antibes5.0 
 7. Williams, Le Portel5.0 
 8. Patiejunas, Boulo.4.6 
 9. Darnauzan, Mauri.4.6 
 10. Morlende, Charleville4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Kyle SHILOH
  St Vallier
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Shiloh, St Vallier3.1 
 2. Riley, Nanterre2.8 
 3. Haquet, Fos Ouest2.7 
 4. Hachad, Fos Ouest2.6 
 5. Doyne, Charleville2.6 
 6. Daniels, Chalons-.2.5 
 7. Craven, Dijon2.5 
 8. Da Silva, Evreux2.4 
 9. Sonko, Maurienne2.4 
 10. Darnauzan, Mauri.2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Gay, Fos Ouest2.2 
 2. Jefferson, Quimper1.6 
 3. Barber, Nantes1.4 
 4. N''Diaye, Clermont1.1 
 5. Monds, Bourg1.1 
 6. Adjiwanou, Boula.1.0 
 7. Diakite, Chalons-.0.9 
 8. Davis, Evreux0.8 
 9. James, Bourg0.8 
 10. Giles, Rouen0.7 


ProB Round 13: Evreux defeats Dijon in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

ProB round 13 most important game was a victory of Evreux over 3rd placed Dijon 83-65 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Dijon. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 48-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Evreux looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized Portuguese guard Philippe Da Silva (192-79) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 assists. American forward Drake Reed (196-87, college: Austin Peay St.) contributed with 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. American-Ivorian guard Errick Craven (188-83, college: USC) answered with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists for Dijon. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Evreux has a solid series of three victories in a row. They of course still keep top position in the standings. Dijon stays at the third place with 9-4 record. Evreux is looking forward to face Bourg (#12) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Dijon will play against Rouen (#6) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Another interesting game for Nanterre (11-2) which hosted Boulazac (8-5). Second ranked Nanterre crushed visitors 94-51. Center Johan Passave-Ducteil (200-85) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners and Mykal Riley chipped in 18 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). At the losing side center Frederic Adjiwanou (204-80, college: St.Mary's, CA) responded with 9 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Of course Nanterre maintains a top position. They share it with Evreux. Boulazac keeps the fourth place. They have the same record like Fos Ouest and Rouen. Nanterre will play against Saint Vallier (#15) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Boulazac will play against Aix-Maurienne (#9) in Aix-les-Bains and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 5th ranked Fos Ouest in a game in Aix-les-Bains versus Aix-Maurienne (#8) 72-78. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Fos Ouest. James Mathis nailed a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side. Lee Cummard came up with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for Fos Ouest in the defeat. Aix-Maurienne (7-6) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Of course they jumped to the seventh spot. They share the position with Lille and Chalons-Reims. Fos Ouest dropped to the fourth place with 8-5 record. They have the same record like Boulazac and Rouen. Aix-Maurienne will meet higher ranked Boulazac (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fos Ouest will play against Lille and hope to secure a win.
Bottom-ranked Quimper managed to get a third victory, breaking the series of three consecutive loses. This time they won against eleventh-ranked Antibes 80-66. Jean-Richard Volcy fired a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Antibes' coach Savo Vucevic rotated ten players, but that didn't help. Of course Quimper (3-10) jumped to the seventeenth spot. They share the position with Charleville. Antibes dropped to the twelfth place with 5-8 record. Quimper's next round opponent will be higher ranked Chalons-Reims (#8) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
And finally the game worth to mention about is Bourg's very close two-point victory over Saint Vallier 76-74. It was a very good performance for David Monds who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 12 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course Bourg (5-8) jumped to the twelfth spot. They share the position with Antibes and Nantes. Saint Vallier lost their eighth straight game in a row. They keep the fifteenth place with 4-9 record. Bourg will face league's leader Evreux on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Saint Vallier will play against the league's second-placed Nanterre (#2) having rather not much hope for a victory.

Other games in round 13 were not that significant. Chalons-Reims beat Nantes on the road 89-78. Boulogne destroyed Charleville on it's own court 82-61. Le Portel managed to outperform Lille in a road game 74-65. Clermont managed to beat Rouen at home 90-78.
The most impressive performance of 13th round was 28 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists by O'Darien Bassett of Clermont.

Bourg - St Vallier 76-74
And finally the game worth to mention about is Bourg's very close two-point victory over Saint Vallier 76-74. It was a very good performance for American forward David Monds (205-83, college: Oklahoma St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 12 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. His fellow American import forward Daniel Coleman (206-85, college: Minnesota) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Bourg players scored in double figures. American guard Kyle Shiloh (191-85, college: Nevada) answered with 26 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Cameroonian power forward Brice Vounang (202-82, college: San Diego) added 17 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for Saint Vallier. Of course Bourg (5-8) jumped to the twelfth spot. They share the position with Antibes and Nantes. Saint Vallier lost their eighth straight game in a row. They keep the fifteenth place with 4-9 record. Bourg will face league's leader Evreux on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Saint Vallier will play against the league's second-placed Nanterre (#2) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Bourg: D.Coleman 18+6reb+1ast, I.Koma 13+3reb+1ast, D.Monds 12+14reb+4ast, P.Bitee 12+2reb+6ast, A.Tsagarakis 9, C.Ferchaud 7+4reb+2ast
St Vallier: K.Shiloh 26+7reb+5ast, B.Vounang 17+11reb+1ast, C.Bronchard 9+3reb+1ast, K.Bichard 8, B.Brown 6+7reb+1ast, F.Tortosa 4
gschID: 100440


Quimper - Antibes 80-66
Bottom-ranked Quimper managed to get a third victory, breaking the series of three consecutive loses. This time they won against eleventh-ranked Antibes 80-66. The game rather controlled by Quimper. Antibes managed to win fourth quarter 21-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Quimper outrebounded Antibes 39-24 including 28 on the defensive glass. Canadian forward Jean-Richard Volcy (203-82, college: N.Michigan) fired a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Forward Aurelien Toto N'Kote (194-79) chipped in 8 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Quimper players scored in double figures. American guard Justin Ingram (185-85, college: Toledo) produced 20 points and 5 rebounds and Serbian guard Milos Bojovic (198-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Antibes' coach Savo Vucevic rotated ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Of course Quimper (3-10) jumped to the seventeenth spot. They share the position with Charleville. Antibes dropped to the twelfth place with 5-8 record. Quimper's next round opponent will be higher ranked Chalons-Reims (#8) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Quimper: J.Volcy 19+11reb+2ast, M.Runkaukas 15+1reb+1ast, A.Rigaux 13+5reb+5ast, G.Lessort 10+6reb, M.Jefferson 9+5reb+1ast, A.Toto N'Kote 8+10reb+5ast
Antibes: J.Ingram 20+5reb+3ast, M.Bojovic 14+5reb+1ast, L.Sambe 8+1reb+1ast, S.Traore 6+4reb+1ast, S.Ho You Fat 6+1reb+1ast, M.Courby 5+4reb+1ast
gschID: 100441


Nantes - Chalons-Reims 78-89
No shocking result in a game when ninth ranked Chalons-Reims (7-6) beat on the road 12th ranked Nantes (5-8) 89-78 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 10 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and winning the game by 11 points. Quite impressive performance for American forward Chris Daniels (200-82, college: Georgia, agency: Limelight Hoops) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. American-Irish guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois) contributed with 18 points and 5 assists for the winners. Chalons-Reims' coach Nikola Antic used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to get some rest. U.S. Virgin Isl.-Saint Lucian power forward Josiah James (203-81, college: Birmingham Souther) answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds and forward Armand Charles (193-83) added 20 points in the effort for Nantes. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for Chalons-Reims. Of course they jumped to the seventh spot. They share the position with Lille and Maurienne. Nantes keep the twelfth place. Chalons-Reims will face bottom-ranked Quimper (#18) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Nantes will play against Charleville-Mezieres (#17).
Top scorers:
Chalons-Reims: G.Chathuant 19+4reb+1ast, B.Mullins 18+1reb+5ast, C.Daniels 15+12reb, D.Wilson 11+4reb+2ast, H.Jalce 11+3reb+2ast, J.Bestron 6+4reb
Nantes: A.Charles 20+3reb+2ast, J.James 17+8reb+2ast, A.Cel 12+9reb+2ast, O.Bardet 12+3reb, N.Gayon 10+4reb+1ast, F.Sahraoui 4+2reb+6ast
gschID: 100442


Maurienne - Fos Ouest 78-72
An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 5th ranked Fos Ouest in a game in Aix-les-Bains versus Aix-Maurienne (#8) 72-78. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Fos Ouest. Fos Ouest was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Aix-Maurienne made 18-of-21 free shots (85.7 percent) during the game. Aix-Maurienne outrebounded Fos Ouest 36-23 including 29 on the defensive glass. American power forward James Mathis (199-84, college: Niagara, agency: Court Side) nailed a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and Sierra Leonean forward Moses Sonko (196-83, college: Co.Carolina) accounted for 19 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). American guard Lee Cummard (201-85, college: BYU) came up with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and Jamaican-American forward Sherman Gay (201-82, college: Loyola Marymount) added 12 points and 4 assists respectively for Fos Ouest in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Aix-Maurienne (7-6) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Of course they jumped to the seventh spot. They share the position with Lille and Chalons-Reims. Fos Ouest dropped to the fourth place with 8-5 record. They have the same record like Boulazac and Rouen. Aix-Maurienne will meet higher ranked Boulazac (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fos Ouest will play against Lille and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Maurienne: J.Mathis 20+13reb+2ast, M.Sonko 19+7reb, J.Ekanga-Ehawa 13+6reb+4ast, C.Dunn 12+6reb+3ast, S.Darnauzan 9+2ast, E.Joldersma 3+2reb+3ast
Fos Ouest: L.Cummard 21+6reb+4ast, M.Hachad 13+4reb+3ast, S.Gay 12+4reb+4ast, B.Cisse 10+1ast, K.Atamna 8+1reb+1ast, Z.Bah 4+3ast
gschID: 100436


Evreux - Dijon 83-65
ProB round 13 most important game was a victory of Evreux over 3rd placed Dijon 83-65 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Dijon. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 48-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Evreux looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of naturalized Portuguese guard Philippe Da Silva (192-79) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 assists. American forward Drake Reed (196-87, college: Austin Peay St.) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Five Evreux players scored in double figures. American-Ivorian guard Errick Craven (188-83, college: USC) answered with 14 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists and American power forward Erroyl Bing (198-82, college: E.Carolina) added 7 points and 13 rebounds in the effort for Dijon. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Evreux has a solid series of three victories in a row. They of course still keep top position in the standings. Dijon stays at the third place with 9-4 record. Evreux is looking forward to face Bourg (#12) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Dijon will play against Rouen (#6) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Evreux: P.Da Silva 17+3reb+14ast, D.Reed 16+10reb+2ast, C.Watson 14+2reb+4ast, D.Davis 11+8reb+4ast, B.Toffin 11+5reb+1ast, L.Chelle 6+4reb+2ast
Dijon: E.Craven 14+5reb+9ast, D.Melody 14+2reb+2ast, E.Mendy 9+2reb, E.Bing 7+13reb+2ast, B.Monclar 6+1reb+1ast, L.Aboudou 4+2reb
gschID: 100437


Boulogne - Charleville 82-61
Very expected game when 16th ranked Charleville-Mezieres (3-10) was smashed on the road by tenth ranked Boulogne (6-7) 82-61 on Tuesday. The game rather controlled by Boulogne. Charleville-Mezieres managed to win third quarter 17-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Boulogne looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Quite impressive performance for American forward Landon Milbourne (201-87, college: Maryland) who helped to win the game recording 26 points and 6 rebounds. Guard Etienne Plateau (187-86) contributed with 17 points and 4 assists for the winners. American forward Jonathan McClark (200-77, college: Rider) answered with 9 points and 13 rebounds and the other American import forward Corey Rouse (203-84, college: E.Carolina, agency: Court Side) added 15 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Charleville-Mezieres. Boulogne did not change their tenth position in the standings. Charleville-Mezieres lost their sixth straight game in a row. They dropped to the seventeenth place. Boulogne will face Le Portel (#11) on the road in the next round. Charleville-Mezieres will play against Nantes (#14).
Top scorers:
Boulogne: L.Milbourne 26+6reb+1ast, E.Plateau 17+2reb+4ast, T.Stanley 9+3reb+1ast, K.Patiejunas 9+2reb+6ast, F.Raposo Laurencio 7+5reb+3ast, L.Kante 7+4reb+1ast
Charleville: C.Rouse 15+5reb+1ast, D.Kaba 13+3reb+3ast, T.Peterson 10+3reb+2ast, J.McClark 9+13reb, Y.Zachee 8+2ast, K.Morlende 4+1reb+5ast
gschID: 100438


Lille - Le Portel 65-74
There was a surprise result when thirteenth ranked Le Portel (6-7) won on the road against higher ranked Lille (7-6) 74-65 on Tuesday. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 29-16. But Lille won second quarter 17-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Le Portel won last quarter 18-10. They made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Quite impressive performance for forward Mehdi Labeyrie (202-78) who helped to win the game recording 21 points. American swingman Chris Davis (196-80, college: N.Texas, agency: Court Side) contributed with 17 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Four Le Portel players scored in double figures. American forward Sean Barnette (195-86, college: Wingate, agency: Warren Sports International) answered with 17 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import power forward Andre Harris (201-85, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) added 11 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Lille. Lille's coach Fabien Romeyer tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Of course Le Portel jumped to the tenth spot. They share the position with Boulogne. Lille keeps the seventh place. Le Portel will face Boulogne (#10) on the road in the next round.
Top scorers:
Le Portel: M.Labeyrie 21+4reb+3ast, C.Davis 17+9reb+1ast, A.Rowland 15+2reb+7ast, F.N'Kembe 12+9reb+4ast, J.Ludon 5+1reb, M.Campbell 4+9reb
Lille: S.Barnette 17+5reb+3ast, A.Harris 11+7reb+1ast, K.Bradley 10+2reb+3ast, R.Malet 7+2reb+3ast, R.Chery 6+4reb+1ast, N.Taccoen 6+10reb
gschID: 100439


Clermont - Rouen 90-78
There was an upset when higher ranked Rouen (8-5) lost on the road to seventeenth ranked Clermont (4-9) 90-78 on Tuesday. The game rather controlled by Clermont. Rouen managed to win second quarter 28-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Clermont especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 68.8 percentage. Quite impressive performance for American guard O'Darien Bassett (188-86, college: Troy) who helped to win the game recording 28 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Naturalized Mali swingman Souarata Cisse (197-86) contributed with 21 points and 5 assists for the winners. American forward Devonne Giles (203-83, college: Texas Tech) answered with 18 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import forward Darnell Williams (200-78, college: San Jose St., agency: David Lee services) added 10 points in the effort for Rouen. Four Clermont and five Rouen players scored in double figures. Of course Clermont jumped to the fifteenth spot. They share the position with St Vallier. Rouen dropped to the fourth place. Clermont will face higher ranked Antibes (#13) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Rouen will play against Dijon (#3) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Clermont: O.Bassett 28+6reb+6ast, S.Cisse 21+3reb+5ast, A.N'Diaye 13+9reb+1ast, R.Wilson 13+1reb, D.Bouldin 8+6reb+2ast, M.Drame 7+2reb
Rouen: D.Giles 18+7reb+1ast, C.Thioune 12+2reb+2ast, W.Soliman 12+2reb, D.Williams 10+4reb+3ast, R.Taylor 10+2reb+2ast, J.Siggers 10+3reb+2ast
gschID: 100434


Nanterre - Boulazac 94-51
Another interesting game for Nanterre (11-2) which hosted Boulazac (8-5). Second ranked Nanterre crushed visitors 94-51. The game without a history. Nanterre lead from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Nanterre dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Boulazac's 32. Nanterre forced 20 Boulazac turnovers and outrebounded them 33-19 including 26 on the defensive glass. They were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Boulazac's players. Center Johan Passave-Ducteil (200-85) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners and American forward Mykal Riley (198-85, college: Alabama) chipped in 18 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Four Nanterre players scored in double figures. At the losing side center Frederic Adjiwanou (204-80, college: St.Mary's, CA) responded with 9 points and 6 rebounds and American guard Corey McIntosh (183-85, college: Iowa St., agency: Warren Sports International) scored 11 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Of course Nanterre maintains a top position. They share it with Evreux. Boulazac keeps the fourth place. They have the same record like Fos Ouest and Rouen. Nanterre will play against Saint Vallier (#15) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Boulazac will play against Aix-Maurienne (#9) in Aix-les-Bains and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Nanterre: M.Riley 18+3reb+4ast, J.Passave-Ducteil 17+12reb+1ast, N.Carter 16+3reb+3ast, W.Daniels 16+4reb, A.Gomis 11+4reb, X.Corosine 7+2reb+6ast
Boulazac: C.McIntosh 11+1reb+3ast, M.Badiane 10+4reb+1ast, F.Adjiwanou 9+6reb+2ast, A.McKenzie 8+2reb, Y.Gaillou 3+2reb, T.Dubiez 3+1reb+1ast


Dexia hand Nancy second straight EuroChallenge loss - by Eurobasket News
Nancy - Dexia 79:82

Dexia stayed in the quest for EuroChallenge Last 16 birth after they defeated Nancy on the road. Ron Lewis (193-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Ohio St.) scored 18 points to lead the Belgian team. Dexia entered a three-team tie on top of Group H ladder. Dexia, Nancy and Oostende all knotted up at 3-2 record and stay in the fight for two spots in Last 16.
The lead changed hands for several times throughout the opening period. Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) capped the period with a jumper to secure a 22:20 lead for Dexia. Bellin organized a 9:0 run from the visitors as Dexia built a 31:22 advantage midway through the second quarter. Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) notched six points to keep Nancy in the game. The hosts cut the deficit at just three points at halftime 39:42. Nancy unleashed a 13:0 rally early in the third term to spur in front. Ron Lewis and Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Xavier) stopped the bleeding for Dexia. The visitors tied the score at 64 late in the period before Linehan gave Nancy a 66:64 lead with one quarter remaining. Justin Cage and Ron Lewis put Dexia back in front midway through the final stanza. Njumoluh tried to drag Nancy back in this one but Ron Lewis came up accurate from the stripe and then Stephen Brun (202-F-80) and Akingbala missed a bunch of jumpers as Dexia sealed the winning outcome.
Peter Van Paassen (211-C/F-78, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure) had 17 points for Dexia. Ronell Taylor and Justin Cage added 13 points each in the victory. Tremmell Darden answered with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Nancy. Stephen Brun finished with 18 points in the loss.

Nancy: Tremmell Darden 21, Stephen Brun 18
Dexia: Ron Lewis 18, Peter Van Paassen 17, Ronell Taylor 13, Justin Cage 13


Matt Lojeski carries Oostende past Orleans - by Eurobasket News
Orleans - Oostende 70:72

Oostende heated up the intrigue in EuroChallenge Group H. They narrowly defeated Orleans in France to enter a three-team tie on top of the ladder. Oostende, Nancy and Dexia are heading into the last round of the regular season leveled at 3-2 record. Orleans in the meantime got eliminated falling at 1-4 record. Matt Lojeski (198-G-85, college: Hawaii) hit a game-winning jumper to propel Oostende to the important victory in France yesterday.
The teams stayed close before Ludovic Vaty (206-C-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) knocked down four free throws giving Orleans a 15:10 lead late in the first quarter. Orleans stayed in charge as they entered the second period up by three points 17:14. Aldo Curti (180-G-87) and Ludovic Vaty gave the hosts a 7-point lead midway through the second period. Orleans arrived at halftime up by 6 points 37:31. Ludovic Vaty and Troy Bell (186-G-80, college: Boston Coll.) ensured a double-digit lead midway through the third quarter. Marcus Faison (196-G-78, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Siena) and Thomas narrowed the deficit at 8-point mark with one quarter remaining. Katnic triggered a 10:2 run from the visitors at the start of the fourth term as Orleans leveled things up at 58. The teams traded baskets before Matt Lojeski tied the score at 70 with six seconds to go. Reynolds then committed a turnover and Matt Lojeski punished the hosts hitting a game-winner. Caleb Green (203-F-85, college: ORU) fired 18 points to lead the effort. Matthew Matt Lojeski added 14 points in the victory. Ludovic Vaty answered with 16 points for Orleans. Aldo Curti and Troy Bell netted 10 points each in the loss.

Orleans: Ludovic Vaty 16, Aldo Curti 10, Troy Bell 10
Oostende: Caleb Green 18, Matt Lojeski 14, Marcus Faison 13


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  GERMANY   


Bastian Doreth (Bayern Munich) Bauermann Has Taught Me To Always Be Thinking Two Steps Ahead - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Bastian Doreth (183-G-89) is a 21 year old 183cm point guard that was born in Nurnberg. He started his basketball career with Franken Hexer (2.Regionalliga) in 2006. In 2007-2008, he played with Baskets Nuernberg (ProA, starting five): 27 games: 5.4ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 40.4%, 3PT: 30.5%, FT: 57.1%. In 2008-2009, he played for Franken Hexer (ProB, starting five): 27 games: 11.5ppg, 4.1rpg, 4.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 39.3%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 79.1%. In the summer of 2009, he played the Championships U20 in Rhodos (Greece) -09: 5 games: 9.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.6apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 47.1%, FT: 78.6%. Last season, he played for Baskets Bamberg (1.Bundesliga): EuroCup: 1 game: 0pts, had also license to play at Nuernberger Basketball Club (ProB): 28 games: 11.5ppg, 3.3rpg, Assists-4 (5.8apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 74.5%. He took some time and spoke with eurobasket about basketball and Bayern Munich.

What is it like playing for Bayern Munich? You play against many young Germans every week. Is it difficult as a young German playing for Bayern Munich?


It is a huge privilege to play for Bayern Munich. I am happy to be able to play against other young Germans and they are always asking me what it is like playing there. I feel very good playing for the team. I think that the level in the PRO A is better this season and it is great that so many young Germans are getting more minutes.

Many spoke about Bayern Munich being undefeated this season, but the team lost to Wurzburg. Were these predictions unrealistic?


It is never easy to be undefeated, but we had many early injuries into the season. We might lose one or two more games, but our goal is to be in first place at the end of the season. We have to give credit to Wurzburg. They are a good team with good players and deserved to beat us on that day.

How big is the basketball excitement in Munich? Has it been growing in the last months?


When I got to Munich in the summer, I would never have thought that the games would be sold out so quickly. There is a lot of interest from the media and people recognize you on the street.

Is there a lot of pressure to win every week?


I think that there is more pressure than ever for us to win. Every team is very motivated to beat us and it is their game of the year. There is more pressure and criticism from the media, but the organization is behind us.

What have you learned from coach Dirk Bauermann in the short time?


Bauermann is a coach that likes strategy and he taught me quickly to always be thinking two steps ahead. He also has told me to be more calm, controlled and not be as wild anymore as I was at times in the PRO B. I feel that after every game and practice that I am getting better.

How pleased are you with your playing time for Bayern Munich?


I am very happy with the playing time which has happened due to the injury of Demond Greene. I hope to keep developing this season.

Is it like a dream to be able to practice everyday with German national players Demond Greene and Stefan Hamann?


I remember watching them play four years ago on TV. Both are always there even with their injuries and giving us tips. Alexsandar Nadjfeji also helps me a lot which is something I would never have dreamed about. happening having a great player like him helping me each day in practice.

What does Robert Garrett bring to the team besides his experience?


I already knew Garrett from last season when I was playing with a license for Nurnberg/Bamberg. He is a great guy with a lot of experience. Many say he is not athletic, but I have seldom seen a player like Garrett who can use his body so well and shoot so well. He helps the young players very much.

How does Darius Hall make you laugh?


He is a great guy and always has something to say and always gives 150%. Whenever we are at a restaurant, he always entertains us.

Beckham Wyrick seems to also be a type of energizer in the team. He seems not to get so much credit, but helps the team in so many ways. How important is he for the team?


He doesnt really get credit in the media, but the whole team knows how important he is. He gives everything in each game, is our best rebounder and a good defender. He is also a very efficient player that never has a bad game.

Who were basketball idols as a kid?


Mithat Demirel and Pascal Roller. In the NBA it was Kobe Bryant. I like how well he understands the game.

You played with Will Chavis last season at NBC. What did you learn from him?


Will was a great teammate. He understands the game so well. We would watch a lot of video together.

What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed right away?


That I am a good team player and always give 100% for the team. I also always try to motivate the team and fire up guys when it is needed.

You played at the U-20 European Championships in 2009 in Rhodos. Who was the best player that you played against in that tournament?


I would say Bogdan Bogdanovic (5.6rpg, 2.6apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 79.3%)
who was an offensive rocket.

What were the most free throws that you ever made in a row?


49.

Who wins a one on one in practice, you or Jonathan Wallace?



It is 50-50. He has a lot of experience, but I beat him a few times in practice.

What was your most crazy shot that you ever made?


I kicked a ball from the opponents free throw line that went in with a swish.

What would you like to do after your basketball career?


I want to get into international management and my big dream is to open up a sneaker store.

What is your favorite NBA team?


Last season it was the Oklahoma Thunder. I really liked how young players could dominate for them. This season, I dont have a favorite team yet, but it wont be the Miami Heat.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?



Wallstreet 1 with Michael Douglas.

Thanks for the chat Bastian.

Eye To Eye With Roger Powell (Deutsche Bank Skyliners) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Roger Powell (198-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: Illinois) is a 198cm forward from Joliet, Illinois. He received a short term contract to play for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners until mid January 2011. He played at Illinois (NCAA) from 2001-2005. In his senior year, he played 39 games: 12.0ppg, 5.7rpg, FGPConf-8 (54.9%), 3PT: 38.5%, FT: 72.9%: Finished career ranked fifth in Illinois history in career field goal percentage (.572) and ranked 26th all-time in scoring (1,178 points). In 2005-2006, he played for the Rockford Lightning (CBA, starting five): 48 games: 21.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.5apg, FG: 57%, 3PT: 37.3%, FT: 73.5%. In 2006-2007, he started with the Utah Jazz (NBA), Regular Season: 3 games: 0.7ppg; left in Jan.'07, then joined Arkansas RimRockers (D-League): 28 games: 22.3ppg, 6.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77%. In 2007-2008, he played for Wear Teramo (Italy-SerieA, starting five): 33 games: 13.2ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.0spg, 2FGP:55.8%, 3PT:31.3%, FT:73.1%. In 2008-2009, he played for the Chicago Bulls (NBA): only pre-season, in Nov.'08 moved to Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem (Israel-Premier League): EuroChallenge: 5 games: 8.6ppg, 4.6rpg; Israeli League: 25 games: 8.6ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 67.3%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 62.5%. Last season, he played for C.B. Murcia (Spain-ACB), Spanish League: 15 games: 8.3ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 44.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 71.9%; in Feb.'10 moved to JDA Dijon Bourgogne (France-ProA, starting five): 2 games: 14.0ppg, 4.0rpg, injured the same month. Recently he was cut by the Chicago Bulls and joined The Deutsche Bank Skyliners. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.



How difficult is it for you to not be on the court?


It is tough, because I love to play basketball. I really want to get back so I can help the team.


What is the current status of your injury? When can you be back on the court?


I am getting treatment and will get another MRI to see how my knee is. I hope to be back on the courting two weeks.


What do you miss the most from playing?



I just miss the court the most. Basketball is what I have been doing all my life. I also miss being in practice and bumping with my teammates.


The Deutsche Bank Skyliners are playing very well without you and AJ Moye. Why has the team been so successful?



It is simple, because guys are steeping up and when guys go down other guys fil the role. It is scary to think how this team will play when both of us are back.


Is another reason for the success of the Deutsche Bank Skyliners because the team has a lot of confidence in coach Gordon Herbert?


Yes it is. Herbert is a great coach and a players coach. He related very well to the players. You can have great players, but if the coach is unable to put it all together then nothing good comes out of it. But our team meshes well together with the coach.


What makes Skyliner coach Gordon Herbert so unique?


Like I already said, Herbert relates well to the players. My favourite coach was Jerrry Sloan of the Utah Jazz. He relates very well to the players. You can know all the x and os, but if the coach cant relate well to the players then you probably wont be successful.


What impresses you most with Kimmo Muurinen? He does so much, but is never in the spotlight.


Kimmo plays very hard and just brings energy. We have many players that do this like Tez who also brings energy and Marius who is a banger under the basket. We have a very well balanced team where every guy can step up.


What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed?


People see my athletic ability and that I can play defense, but I can shoot the ball well.


Who were your NBA idol growing up?


I grew up in Chicago and my idol was Michael Jordan. I watched him win the 6 titles in the 90s.

Was there an NBA player that you didnt like?


There wasnt really an NBA player that I didnt like. I didnt like the New York Knicks or the Detroit Pistons who played very physical against us.


Was your dad sad that you went to Illinois and not his school Illinois State?


No he wasnt. My dad felt that it was a good decision for me to go to Illinois since it was a big 10 school. It would have been nice to play in the foot steps of my dad, but I made a good choice.

Many say that Chris Paul is the best point guard in the NBA and Rajon Rondo will follow in his footsteps. You played with Deron Williams at Illinois. Why isnt Williams seen where Paul and Rondo is?


I dont know why he isnt before them. Williams is the best point guard. He has proved it enough the last years. You cant forget that Utah is a small market.


What do you remember from the 2005 NCAA final loss to North Carolina?


I remember that it was a hard fought battle. It wasnt the best feeling losing that game.


In the NCAA final 2005, you played against future NBA players like Raymond Felton, Sean May, Rashad Mccants and Marvin Williams. Who was the best player that you played against in that game?


I cant really pin point one player. They had seven solid players that all got drafted in the first round of the NBA. They were a tough team and so were we.


You played three games for the Utah Jazz. What do you remember the most from this experience?


I was just very happy to have a season in the NBA. It is very tough in the nBA an dit is never easy to get a chance in the NBA.

You have played in Italy, Israel, France and Spain. What was your most memorable station?



Italy, because I had a lot of success there and I liked it. I also enjoyed Israel where we reached the Final 4 and we were always at the top of the standings.


You were the last NBA cut of the 2010 Chicago Bulls. What do think was the reason why you didnt make the team?


I think that they wanted to save money or roster space. It was as usual a numbers game. I was just happy to have had the chance with the Bulls.


What do you like the most about Frankfurt?


Frankfurt is a great city. Many speak English and I like the big city atmosphere which is similar to Chicago. The people are also friendly.


Who wins a one on one game in practice, you or Jermaine Bucknor?



We havent played yet. It would be a very competitive game. I am very happy for the success of Bucknor.


What were the most free throws that you ever made in a practice?


40


What was the most crazy shot you ever made in a practice?


I was sitting down at the middle and made a shot.



What is your 2010 Christmas wish?



My wish is to come back, help the team win and no more injuries in the team.


What was the DVD movie that you saw?


Centurion.


Thanks Roger for the chat,









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


Standings - Eredivisie
DBL Standings
 1. GasTerra 15-1 
 2. ZZ Leiden 13-3 
 3. Eiffel Towers 12-5 
 4. Magixx 9-7 
 5. BS Weert 8-9 
 6. DeFriesland 8-9 
 7. ABC 7-9 
 8. Giants 5-12 
 9. Landstede 5-12 
 10. Rotterdam 1-16 


Stats Leaders - Eredivisie
Points Per Game
 Glenn STOKES
  BS Weert
  (170-G-76)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Stokes, BS Weert20.3 
 2. Kimbrough, Giants17.4 
 3. Boxley, ZZ Leiden16.4 
 4. Borha, Landstede16.3 
 5. Brown, DeFriesland15.9 
 6. Laing, Magixx15.8 
 7. McGhee, ZZ Leiden14.5 
 8. Marshall, Lands.14.4 
 9. Voorn, ABC14.3 
 10. Hilliman, Rotterdam14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Robbie SIHOTA
  Rotterdam
  (198-F-87)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Sihota, Rotterdam10.1 
 2. Haryasz, GasTerra9.8 
 3. McDermott, Magixx9.3 
 4. Griffin, Giants9.3 
 5. Hilliman, Rotterdam9.2 
 6. Hamm, BS Weert8.7 
 7. de Randamie, ABC8.4 
 8. Koenis, Giants8.3 
 9. Sanchez, DeFriesl.7.8 
 10. Ellis, GasTerra7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Matt BAUSCHER
  GasTerra
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Bauscher, GasTerra5.1 
 2. Turner, Eiffel T.4.8 
 3. Bostain, GasTerra4.4 
 4. Stokes, BS Weert4.1 
 5. Marshall, Lands.3.9 
 6. Kimbrough, Giants3.8 
 7. Williams, DeFriesland3.7 
 8. Mladenovic, Rotte.3.1 
 9. Slagter, ZZ Leiden3.1 
 10. Boxley, ZZ Leiden3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Frank TURNER
  Eiffel Towers
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Turner, Eiffel T.2.8 
 2. McDermott, Magixx2.5 
 3. Kimbrough, Giants2.4 
 4. Dourisseau, GasTe.2.3 
 5. Jackson, ZZ Leiden2.3 
 6. Taylor, Magixx2.2 
 7. Bostain, GasTerra2.2 
 8. Hilliman, Rotterdam2.1 
 9. Williams, DeFriesland2.1 
 10. Kherrazi, ABC2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Marcel AARTS
  Eiffel Towers
  (213-C-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Aarts, Eiffel T.1.8 
 2. Hairston, BS Weert1.8 
 3. Blue, Giants1.4 
 4. Bekkering, ZZ Le.1.1 
 5. Hilliman, Rotterdam1.0 
 6. Haryasz, GasTerra0.9 
 7. McDermott, Magixx0.8 
 8. Smith, Eiffel Towers0.8 
 9. Strong, Landstede0.8 
 10. Hamm, BS Weert0.8 


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


Kevin Thomas moved from Falco KC to ZTE KK - by Tamas Deri
Kevin Thomas (193-G-82, agency: Interperformances, college: Georgia St.) played only three games for Falco KC averaging 12.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. The management decided not to keep him for the rest of the season and re-signed one popular player Jara Doyne, who helped the club to get its first championship in 2008.
Thomas did not have to wait too long to find a new job, as the management of ZTE KK decided to sign him as many players got injured in the last couple of weeks. He played already one game for his new team and added 10 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists against Szolnoki Olaj KK.

Hungarian A Division round 11 best performance: Darian Townes - by Eurobasket News
American power forward Darian Townes (208-F/C-84) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Soproni, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 11.
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 26 points and 13 rebounds, while his team beat Szedeak (#11, 4-8) 88-83. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Soproni is placed at 10th position in Hungarian A Division. Soproni is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 4-7 record. Townes turned to be Soproni's top player in his first season with the team. Darian Townes has solid league stats. He is in league's top in points (8th best: 19.1ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 10.9rpg) and averages impressive 1.7bpg and 62.3% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 33-year old American Charles Gosa (202-F-77) of Falco-Szova KC-Szombathely. Gosa had a very good evening with a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Falco-Szova lost that game 76-86 to the higher-ranked Atomeromu (#3, 9-2). Falco-Szova managed to keep the same 7th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 5-6 record. Gosa is a newcomer at Falco-Szova, but is already the team's top player.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Rashad Bell (201-F-82) of MJUS-Fortress Kormend (#4). Bell scored 26 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Despite Bell's great performance Kormend lost 89-102 to #2 ranked Albacomp. But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing Kormend needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 8 victories and 3 lost games. Bell has a great season in Hungary. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.2ppg (2nd best) and rebounds with 9.7rpg (5th best). He also has 2.2spg and FGP: 73.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Janou Rubin (193-G-82) of Szedeak - 26 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Tony Crocker (201-G/F-87) of Albacomp - 28 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Chris Singletary (194-G-88) of FS Debrecen - 25 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Gabor Soos (200-G/F-85) of Kaposvari - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Josh Wilson (188-G-87) of Kaposvari - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
9. Brooks Sales (208-C/F-80) of Atomeromu - 21 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Nebojsa Dukic (206-C/F-85) of Szedeak - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

*****************************************************
  INDONESIA   


NBL Series III Midpoint Update - by Andrew Lowman
Playing in front of a full crowd on most nights, Series III in the NBL season has proven to be as exciting and popular as the first two series. While the top four teams have remained the same, Satria Muda has definitely been the hottest, defeating both the CLS Knights and ASPAC. Leg by stars Faisal Achmad (180-G-81) and Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80), SMB have shown the ability to finish games strong and pull away in the 4th Quarter.

Despite the loss to SMB, the CLS Knights recorded the biggest win of the season so far, taking down the previously unbeaten Pelita Jaya Esia. The key to their success was a solid team effort in which five players scored over 9 points in the match. As well, they shot 40% from the field, an outstanding percentage for the NBL.

The other hot team right now are the Garuda Flexi of Bandung. After some close losses playing a tough schedule in the first two series, the Garuda are back up to .500 with two strong wins.

The most intriguing games left in this series are tonight when Garuda takes on the CLS Knights, Saturday when the Garuda take on ASPAC, and finally Pelita Jaya matching up against ASPAC on Sunday. I wish I could be in Solo this weekend!

Standings - IBL
NBL Standings
 1. Satria Muda 13-2 
 2. Pelita Jaya 11-1 
 3. CLS 11-3 
 4. ASPAC 10-3 
 5. Garuda 7-7 
 6. Muba Hangtuah 7-7 
 7. Stadium Jak. 6-9 
 8. Bima Sakti 2-11 
 9. Citra Satria 1-12 
 10. Angsapura 0-13 


*****************************************************
  IRELAND   


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Michael BONAPARTE
  Neptune
  (196-F-82)
  Avg: 31.4
 1. Bonaparte, Neptune31.4 
 2. Longmire, Belfast .29.2 
 3. Turner, Killester24.8 
 4. Van, UCC Demons24.1 
 5. De La Cruz, Ulster E.22.6 
 6. Foley, Ulster Elks21.7 
 7. Ambler, Moycullen21.1 
 8. Mitchell, UL Ea.20.8 
 9. Crowder, UCD M.20.3 
 10. Louisme, Neptune19.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mason AMBLER
  Moycullen
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 14.7
 1. Ambler, Moycullen14.7 
 2. Mitchell, UL Ea.14.6 
 3. Louisme, Neptune13.7 
 4. De La Cruz, Ulster E.13.0 
 5. Van, UCC Demons12.6 
 6. Crowder, UCD M.12.0 
 7. Turner, Killester11.1 
 8. Bonaparte, Neptune10.2 
 9. Provizors, DCU S.9.4 
 10. Trimmer, DCU S.8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Scott KINEVANE
  UL Eagles
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Kinevane, UL Eagles6.5 
 2. Donnelly, DCU S.5.9 
 3. Meany, UCD Marian5.1 
 4. Drumm, Ulster Elks4.6 
 5. Noonan, Neptune3.8 
 6. McVeigh, Belfast .3.5 
 7. Nihill, Moycullen3.5 
 8. Westbrooks, Killester3.5 
 9. Clarke, Killester3.4 
 10. Glover, DCU Saints3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Michael MCGINN
  Neptune
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. McGinn, Neptune3.4 
 2. Nihill, Moycullen2.7 
 3. Westbrooks, Killester2.6 
 4. Drumm, Ulster Elks2.4 
 5. Donnelly, DCU S.2.3 
 6. Noonan, Neptune2.3 
 7. Crowder, UCD M.2.1 
 8. Turner, Killester2.1 
 9. Dowd, Moycullen2.1 
 10. Hosford, UCC D.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Neil BAYNES
  UCD Marian
  (198-F-87)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Baynes, UCD Marian2.7 
 2. Van, UCC Demons2.6 
 3. Turner, Killester2.4 
 4. Bonaparte, Neptune2.2 
 5. Louisme, Neptune2.0 
 6. Trimmer, DCU S.2.0 
 7. Longmire, Belfast .1.8 
 8. De La Cruz, Ulster E.1.4 
 9. Duggan, UCC Demons1.3 
 10. Crowder, UCD M.1.2 


SuperLeague Round 10: UCD Marian is defeated by Dart Killester in a derby game - by Eurobasket News
Host teams show no mercy winning all games.

SuperLeague round 10 most interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Dublin: Dart Killester (#1) and UCD Marian (#2). Dart Killester (9-0) smashed visiting UCD Marian (5-5) by 23 points 77-54. Dart Killester forced 23 UCD Marian turnovers and outrebounded them 34-22 including a 29-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Dart Killester looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international guard Issac Westbrooks (190-85) chipped in 9 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Dart Killester's coach Mark Keenan felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side center Barry Glover (198-82) responded with 11 points. Undefeated Dart Killester have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Current champion stay at first position. UCD Marian is currently in second place with a 5-5 record as they suffered their fifth loss. Dart Killester are looking forward to face Moycullen (#4) at home in the next round. UCD Marian will play against UL Eagles in Limerick and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very significant was Neptune's (#3) 99-89 home victory against their biggest opponent DCU Saints. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of DCU Saints. Neptune has a solid three-game winning streak. The victory allowed Neptune (6-4) to climb to the second place. DCU Saints are currently in second position with a 5-5 record as they suffered their fifth loss. Neptune's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Cork to the arena UCC Demons.
Quite upsetting was UCC Demons' 33-point road defeat in a game versus UL Eagles who crushed guests. Cameron Mitchell fired a double-double by scoring 27 points, 20 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Niall Murphy produced 26 points and 5 rebounds for lost side. UL Eagles (7-2) stay at first position. UCC Demons slipped to third place as they suffered their third loss. UL Eagles will meet at home UCD Marian (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. UCC Demons' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Cork Neptune.

In the last game of round 10 Ulster Elks were destroyed by Belfast Star on the opponent's court 86-65.

Neptune - DCU Saints 99-89

Very significant was Neptune's (#3) 99-89 home victory against their biggest opponent DCU Saints. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of DCU Saints. Neptune has a solid three-game winning streak. The victory allowed Neptune (6-4) to climb to the second place. DCU Saints are currently in second position with a 5-5 record as they suffered their fifth loss. Neptune's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Cork to the arena UCC Demons.
gschID: 107952


Belfast Star - Ulster Elks 86-65

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 5th ranked Ulster Elks' (1-8) road loss to fourth ranked Belfast Star (3-6) 65-86 on Saturday. Belfast Star forced 27 Ulster Elks turnovers. American forward Clayton Longmire (201-84, college: St.Rose (NY)) fired a double-double by scoring 24 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. British guard Scott Summersgill (173-71) chipped in 25 points and 5 assists. Forward Ciaran McEvilly (191-82) produced 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and swingman Kevin Foley (193-83) added 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Despite the victory Belfast Star stay at fourth position. Ulster Elks lost seventh consecutive game. The team is currently in fifth place with a 1-8 record. Belfast Star will meet at home league's second-placed Neptune in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Ulster Elks will play against UCC Demons in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Belfast Star: S.Summersgill 25+3reb+5ast, C.Longmire 24+11reb+4ast, M.McKillop 9+5reb+2ast, M.Jackson 7+2reb+1ast, C.McVeigh 6+3reb+4ast, C.Johnston 5+2reb
Ulster Elks: C.McEvilly 20+6reb+4ast, B.De La Cruz 15+5reb+1ast, K.Foley 14+8reb+4ast, B.Drumm 7+6reb+1ast, D.Gallagher 5+1reb+1ast, P.McGaharan 2+3reb
gschID: 107953


UL Eagles - UCC Demons 94-61

Quite upsetting was UCC Demons' 33-point road defeat in a game versus UL Eagles who crushed guests. UL Eagles dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to UCC Demons' 32. UL Eagles outrebounded UCC Demons 42-16 including a 29-9 advantage in defensive rebounds. American power forward Cameron Mitchell (201-88, college: Willamette, agency: N.E.T.) fired a double-double by scoring 27 points, 20 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Forward Carlton Cuffe (190-87) chipped in 18 points and 8 rebounds. Five UL Eagles players scored in double figures. Guard Niall Murphy (180-86) produced 26 points and 5 rebounds and Kyle Hosford (-89) added 11 points respectively for lost side. UL Eagles (7-2) stay at first position in the South Conference. UCC Demons slipped to third place as they suffered their third loss. UL Eagles will meet at home UCD Marian (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. UCC Demons' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Cork Neptune.
Top scorers:
UL Eagles: C.Mitchell 27+20reb+4ast, C.Cuffe 18+8reb+2ast, N.Campbell 16+2reb+2ast, S.Kinevane 16+3reb+2ast, M.Hall 11+2reb, A.Dawson 3
UCC Demons: N.Murphy 26+5reb, C.O'Sullivan 13, K.Hosford 11+4reb+1ast, S.Duggan 6+3reb, E.Murphy 2, D.OMahony 2+2reb
gschID: 107954


Killester - UCD Marian 77-54

SuperLeague round 10 most interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Dublin: Dart Killester (#1) and UCD Marian (#2). Dart Killester (9-0) smashed visiting UCD Marian (5-5) by 23 points 77-54. Dart Killester forced 23 UCD Marian turnovers and outrebounded them 34-22 including a 29-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Dart Killester looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international guard Issac Westbrooks (190-85) chipped in 9 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Dart Killester's coach Mark Keenan felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side center Barry Glover (198-82) responded with 11 points and American forward James Crowder (201-86, college: Pfeiffer, agency: Agency No 10) scored 9 points and 7 rebounds. Dart Killester have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Current champion stay at first position. UCD Marian is currently in second place with a 5-5 record as they suffered their fifth loss. Dart Killester are looking forward to face Moycullen (#4) at home in the next round. UCD Marian will play against UL Eagles in Limerick and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Killester: J.Turner 21+10reb+3ast, M.Westbrooks 10+2reb+6ast, J.Behan 9+1reb+3ast, I.Westbrooks 9+13reb+3ast, P.Madsen 8+1reb+3ast, M.Goj 8+1reb
UCD Marian: B.Glover 11+3reb+3ast, C.Meany 11+2ast, C.Finn 9+4reb+2ast, J.Crowder 9+7reb, N.Baynes 6+5reb+3ast, D.James 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 107955




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


Stats Leaders - National League
Points Per Game
 Brian ASBURY
  Hapoel T-A
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 28
 1. Asbury, Hapoel T-A28.0 
 2. Miller, Megido/Y.25.6 
 3. Gomez, Beer Yaakov25.4 
 4. Johnson, Ironi N.25.2 
 5. Hall, Beer Yaakov24.4 
 6. Young, Hod Hasharon22.9 
 7. Webb, Hapoel Tivon22.7 
 8. Dobie, Lev Hasharon22.1 
 9. Clemente, Megido.21.8 
 10. Tramiel, Kohav Yair21.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason JOHNSON
  Ironi Nahariya
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 14.3
 1. Johnson, Ironi N.14.3 
 2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.11.6 
 3. Ibrahim, Ironi N.11.0 
 4. Brandy, Hod H.10.9 
 5. Clemente, Megido.10.2 
 6. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne9.5 
 7. Tramiel, Kohav Yair9.1 
 8. McFarlin, Lev H.9.1 
 9. Webb, Hapoel Tivon9.0 
 10. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Yaron LAHAT
  Hapoel T-A
  (186-G-76)
  Avg: 7.7
 1. Lahat, Hapoel T-A7.7 
 2. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula5.9 
 3. Harush, Kohav Yair5.8 
 4. Timor, Hapoel Tivon5.7 
 5. Dobie, Lev Hasharon5.6 
 6. Farhi, Beer Yaakov5.5 
 7. Housman, Hapoel T.5.2 
 8. Berkowitz, Elitzu.5.0 
 9. Skverer, Maccabi .4.7 
 10. Hofman, Elitzur .4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Nate MILLER
  Megido/Yokneam
  (193-F-87)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Miller, Megido/Y.3.3 
 2. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula2.9 
 3. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.2.7 
 4. Naor, Hapoel T-A2.6 
 5. Harush, Kohav Yair2.5 
 6. Stevens, Hapoel T.2.5 
 7. Shtarkman, Megido.2.3 
 8. Young, Hod Hasharon2.3 
 9. Webb, Hapoel Tivon2.2 
 10. Hofman, Elitzur .2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Daniel AIDAN
  Hapoel Beeri
  (204-F-89)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Aidan, Hapoel Beeri2.3 
 2. Webb, Hapoel Tivon2.2 
 3. Rosefelt, Ironi R.2.1 
 4. Hugee, Hapoel Afula1.9 
 5. Johnson, Ironi N.1.7 
 6. Utter, Hapoel T-A1.7 
 7. Brandy, Hod H.1.6 
 8. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne1.4 
 9. Lewis, Ironi R.1.3 
 10. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.1.2 


Maccabi Electra close to get Milan Macvan - by Eurobasket News
According to Israeli media, Milan Macvan (205-F-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) will become a new player of Maccabi Electra in the next day or two. At the same time, Maccabi will most probably release Richard Hendrix (203-F-86, college: Alabama).
Milan Macvan already agreed on terms with the Israeli powerhouse, who now has to finalize this deal with Hemofarm. According to some sources, the Serbian squad asks 600.000 euros for Macvan's buyout. Milan Macvan was also targeted by Spanish champion Caja Laboral.

Norrkoping Dolphins have joined a group of clubs on top of Group D - by Eurobasket News
Norrkoping Dolphins-Barak Netanya 70:64

Norrkoping Dolphins have joined a group of clubs on top of Group D EuroChallenge following a 70:64 home win over Barak Netanya. The latter as well as the Swedish side plus Liege all have 3-2 records and will find out two winners to go to Sweet 16 next week.
Things had started so brightly for the hosts that scored the first five points in their game. Barak Netanya however needed their time and won the end of the quarter for 25:23 lead. Gur made two free throws for 27:23 and Younger added twp for 29:25 in the beginning of the second period. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79, college: N.Arizona) meanwhile brought 6 points in a row for the home side to taste 31:29 lead with them. Adrian Banks (191-G-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) on the other side nailed three to close the quarter at 36:33. After the break it was a totally different story although it did take the hosts some time to get going. At first Elton Brown (206-F/C-83, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Virginia) brought 45:35 on the board, while Joakim Kjellbom closed a 5-0 run at 45:40. Moreover Andrew Mitchell (181-G-79, college: Kent St.) was the last to score in the frame for 49:48 after 30 minutes. The Swedish representative erupted with 22-15 in the last frame to seal the victory. They also tightened up defensively holding Barak Netanya to just two points in the last three minutes. Adrian Banks made the jump shot in the end of the game for the final result.
Joakim Kjellbom was unstoppable with 27 points and 10 rebounds for the third win. Andrew Mitchell notched 16 and Tomas Gaidamavicius (191-G-82) posted 8. Adrian Banks ended up with 20 points in the losing case and Elton Brown collected 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Norrkoping Dolphins: Joakim Kjellbom 27+10 rebs, Andrew Mitchell 16, Tomas Gaidamavicius 8
Barak Netanya: Adrian Banks 20, Elton Brown 19+10 rebs

Clemente's double-double lands him National League Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old forward Ramon Clemente (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) put on an amazing game in the last round for Megido/Yokneam and receives a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 29.
He had a double-double of 33 points and 14 rebounds, while his team beat Ironi Nahariya (#14, 2-8) 103-89. Megido/Yokneam maintains the 4th position in Israeli National League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Megido/Yokneam will need more victories to improve their 7-4 record. Clemente turned to be Megido/Yokneam's top player in his first season with the team. Wichita State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Clemente is in league's top in points (9th best: 21.8ppg), rebounds (5th best: 10.2rpg) and averages solid 66.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Jason Johnson (203-F-86) of Ironi Nahariya. He is American forward in his first season at Ironi Nahariya. In the last game Johnson recorded impressive double-double of 35 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Ironi Nahariya lost that game 89-103 to the higher-ranked Megido/Yokneam (#4, 7-4). Ironi Nahariya are still at the very bottom. 8 lost games is too many comparing to just two victories Ironi Nahariya managed to get this year. Johnson is a newcomer at Ironi Nahariya and quickly became the team's new leader. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 25.2ppg (#4). He also registered 14.3 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Brian Asbury (200-F-85) of league's leader Hapoel Usishkin Tel-Aviv. Asbury got into 30-points club by scoring 39 points in the last round. He went also for six rebounds . He was a key player of Hapoel T-A, leading his team to a 102-78 easy win against the lower-ranked Elitzur Ramla (#13, 3-8). Hapoel T-A have amazing season winning all 11 games without a single defeat. Asbury turns to be one of the very best players in the league while he is also a leader of the top team having his eyes on the championship title. Asbury has a great season in Israel. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 28.0ppg (best scorer). He also has 1.2bpg, FGP: 66.7% and 3PT: 47.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. DeVon Hardin (211-C-86) of Elitzur Yavne - 26 points and 16 rebounds
5. Tramaine Stevens (200-G/F-87) of Hapoel Tivon - 36 points and 9 rebounds
6. Isaac Rosefelt (205-C/F-85) of Ironi Ramat Gan - 27 points and 11 rebounds
7. Jitim Young (188-G-81) of Hod Hasharon - 22 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Yoad Bet-Yosef (182-G-87) of Beer Yaakov - 18 points and 11 assists
9. Adrian Uter (201-F/C-84) of Hapoel T-A - 21 points and 8 rebounds
10. Antwan Henry Dobie (183-G-78) of Lev Hasharon - 28 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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


Benetton center Sandro Nicevic out with wrist injury - by Eurobasket News
Benetton Bwin Treviso has suffered a major blow with the news that former All-Eurocup center Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) will be out indefinitely with a wrist injury. Nicevic, who previously had a problem with his right wrist, will now undergo surgery to repair a ligament problem in his left wrist. He is expected to miss several months. Nicevic started the first four Eurocup games of the season and averaged 8.3 points and 3.5 rebounds for Benetton in his fourth season with the team.

Courtesy of www.eurocupbasketball.com

Nihad Djedovic: ''I had options in ACB, but I preferred Roma'' - by Eurobasket News
Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket), from Lottomatica Roma, made a crazy week and in a few days he combined a 40 valoration in domestic competition with a -11 ranking in Euroleague in Madrid. The bosnian 1.96 guard arrived last summer to the italian capital loaned from FC Barcelona after spending one year with Xacobeo (ACB) averaging 6.3 points and 1.7 rebounds (also loaned). Eurohopes contacted him after both games. The prospect explained us that the Real Madrid one 'was a very difficult game, they earned to win. They played very well and the players were very connected as a team'. And what about the italian MVP award after the 40 valoration? 'That was my best game at senior level so far. It was great! I really hope to have a lot of games like that one in the future, and even better ones'.

NBA scouts have been following his steps last seasons, but he prefers other things at the moment. 'I am concentrated to play well here in Rome for Lottomatica, and then to come back to Barcelona. Now I am very focused on the things going on here in Europe, and I'm not thinking a lot about NBA in these moments'. Some days ago Pete Mickeal and Joan Carles Navarro, from FC Barcelona, got injured. Was the bosnian an option? We asked him. 'That is an issue I don't know nothing about, and it is a thing for which my agent is responsible for and knows the best'. Djedovic added that he decided to sign in Italy because 'was the best option for me even there were ACB teams that wanted me. I preferred Roma. This will help me a lot in my development and growth as a player'.

Djedovic is currently averaging 14.2 points, 2.9 rebounds and 2.6 steals in Serie A. And Euroleague? 6.8, 2.5 and 1.5.

Courtesy of www.eurohopes.com

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


JBL2 Standings
JBL2 Standings
 1. Toyota Tsusho 10-0 
 2. Aisin AW 9-3 
 3. TGI D-Rise 7-4 
 4. Ishikawa 6-5 
 5. Kagoshima 6-6 
 6. Toyoda Gosei 6-6 
 7. Hitachi C.B. 4-8 
 8. Kuroda Electric 3-9 
 9. Tokyo Big Blue 1-11 


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


BK Ventspils parts ways with Chet Mason - by Eurobasket News
BK Ventspils announced that Chester Mason (192-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: Miami (OH)) is no longer part of the team. The Latvian outfit released the player yesterday.
Chester Mason joined Ventsplis last summer from the Bosnian team Siroki TT Kabeli. He appeared five times in Latvian league averaging 12.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5 assists. In Baltic league and EuroChallenge his numbers were much lower.

*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Fadi EL KHATIB
  Champville
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 29.2
 1. El Khatib, Champville29.2 
 2. Warner, Byblos24.2 
 3. Shannon, Anibal22.8 
 4. Cage, Hoops21.9 
 5. Abed El Nour, Al Ri.21.3 
 6. Battles, Antranik20.7 
 7. Zachery, Antranik20.7 
 8. Youngblood, Champ.20.2 
 9. Byrd, Hoops20.1 
 10. Thompson, Sagesse19.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  Al Riyadi
  (218-C-78)
  Avg: 16.4
 1. Woods, Al Riyadi16.4 
 2. Watkins, Sagesse13.0 
 3. Warner, Byblos12.8 
 4. Dawson, Chabab12.5 
 5. Thompson, Sagesse12.3 
 6. Payne, Moutahed11.7 
 7. Battles, Antranik11.2 
 8. Kanaan, Antranik10.8 
 9. Allen, Champville10.7 
 10. Vogel, Al Riyadi10.5 
Assists Per Game
 Brandon MASON
  Byblos
  (194-G/F-81)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Mason, Byblos7.8 
 2. Johnson, Moutahed6.8 
 3. Akl, Anibal6.3 
 4. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi5.6 
 5. Clemons, Chabab4.5 
 6. Fahed, Sagesse3.8 
 7. Roustom, Moutahed3.8 
 8. Khoury, Sagesse3.7 
 9. Warner, Byblos3.4 
 10. Youngblood, Champ.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Enique CLEMONS
  Chabab
  (180-G-80)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Clemons, Chabab3.7 
 2. Youngblood, Champ.2.6 
 3. Roustom, Moutahed2.5 
 4. Byrd, Hoops2.4 
 5. Mason, Byblos2.4 
 6. Lakiss, Chabab1.9 
 7. Martinez, Champville1.9 
 8. Cage, Hoops1.9 
 9. Cantrell, Byblos1.8 
 10. Zachery, Antranik1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Rammel ALLEN
  Pioneros
  (210-C-79)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Allen, Champville3.7 
 2. Watkins, Sagesse2.8 
 3. Woods, Al Riyadi2.3 
 4. Thompson, Sagesse1.8 
 5. Payne, Moutahed1.5 
 6. Hamdar, Hoops1.4 
 7. Dawson, Chabab1.3 
 8. Shannon, Anibal1.3 
 9. Kanaan, Antranik1.3 
 10. Warner, Byblos1.3 


Standings - Division A
Div.A Standings
 1. Champville 11-1 
 2. Al Riyadi 9-2 
 3. Moutahed 8-4 
 4. Sagesse 7-4 
 5. Anibal 5-7 
 6. Hoops 4-7 
 7. Antranik 4-7 
 8. Chabab 2-9 
 9. Byblos 1-10 


Awesome League... Terrible Referees.... - by Rabih Khoury
If you ask each and every Basketball follower in Lebanon about the 2010-2011 season, there is no doubt that the answer will be: ' Best season since 10 years, or maybe best season in History'... Each team can beat the other team.. There is no big teams and small teams... To predict the winner in any game is a very hard thing... But again the Referee's are not up to level.. It is very sad to have such competitor league with such referees. From the very beginning of the season and the referees were not up to level... Mistakes and mistakes and mistakes in each and every game...All teams were demanding better referees and foreign referees to be in the games... The federation just got 2 foreign referees from Greece.. Last night, in Sagesse vs Anibal game the referees level was suitable maybe for D3 league and not DA... Anyone who watched the game saw how referees and especially the lebanese ones couldn't take a decision and didnt whistle many calls and they were only waiting the foreign referee from Greece to make the calls.. It was like a 1 referee in the game and not 3....
All Basketball lovers and fans wishes that this problem could be solved soon by the federation to enjoy this league... An urgent demand to the Lebanese Basketball Federation....

Anibal lands Alpha Bangura... - by Rabih Khoury
Anibal Zahle management agreed to terms with american wing Alpha Bangura (197-F/G-80, college: St.John's) to join the team for the rest of the season. Bangura is well known in Lebanon, especially when he joined Sagesse in Arab Cup 2008 and won over Riyadi in the semi finals, before loosing the final game. Bangura played last year also in Lebanon with Riyadi, where he averaged 24pts 5rebds and 4assts in 4 games. Bangura arrived to Lebanon on saturday and joined Anibal Zahle in their first game against Sagesse where he had 17pts 11rebds.

*****************************************************
  LIGA AMERICAS   


Standings
Liga Americas Standings
Group A
 1. Regatas C. 3-0 
 2. Penarol 2-1 
 3. Espartanos 1-2 
 4. Toros 0-3 
Group B
 1. BRB/Brasilia 1-0 
 2. Halc.Xalapa 1-0 
 3. Caneros 0-1 
 4. Defensor 0-1 
Group C
 1. Quimsa 0-0 
 2. Flamengo 0-0 
 3. Mavort 0-0 
Group D
 1. Capitanes 0-0 
 2. Cocodrilos 0-0 
 3. Halc.Rojos 0-0 
 4. Sionista 0-0 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Maurice CARTER
  Caneros
  (183-G-83)
  Avg: 25
 1. Carter, Caneros25.0 
 2. Giovannoni, BRB/B.25.0 
 3. Matthews, Defensor21.0 
 4. Gutierrez, Penarol19.0 
 5. Hernandez, Halc.Xal.19.0 
 6. Romero, Espartanos18.7 
 7. Henning, Toros18.3 
 8. Woodward, Defensor18.0 
 9. Guzman, Caneros18.0 
 10. Stanton, Regatas C.17.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Adrian HENNING
  Toros
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Henning, Toros9.3 
 2. Giovannoni, BRB/B.9.0 
 3. Romero, Espartanos8.3 
 4. Joseph, Toros8.3 
 5. Matthews, Defensor8.0 
 6. Roe, Halc.Xalapa8.0 
 7. Romano, Regatas C.7.7 
 8. Rougeau, Toros7.7 
 9. Kammerichs, Regat.7.3 
 10. Tischer, BR.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Orlando MENDEZ-VALDEZ
  Halc.Xalapa
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 8
 1. Mendez-V., Halc.Xal.8.0 
 2. dos Santos, BRB/B.6.0 
 3. Garcia, BR.5.0 
 4. Pagan, Toros5.0 
 5. Woodward, Defensor4.0 
 6. Pulido, Halc.Xalapa4.0 
 7. Martinez, Regat.4.0 
 8. Giovannoni, BRB/B.4.0 
 9. Lamonte, Penarol3.7 
 10. Alvarez, Defensor3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Brian WOODWARD
  Defensor
  (191-G-81)
  Avg: 3
 1. Woodward, Defensor3.0 
 2. Alvarez, Defensor3.0 
 3. Campazzo, Penarol3.0 
 4. Pagan, Toros3.0 
 5. Matthews, Defensor2.0 
 6. Montas, Caneros2.0 
 7. Carter, Caneros2.0 
 8. Garcia, BR.2.0 
 9. Rougeau, Toros1.7 
 10. Lamonte, Penarol1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Adrian HENNING
  Toros
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 3
 1. Henning, Toros3.0 
 2. Hernandez, Halc.Xal.2.0 
 3. Traylor, Halc.Xalapa2.0 
 4. Kammerichs, Regat.2.0 
 5. Mata, Halc.Xalapa2.0 
 6. Diez, Penarol1.0 
 7. dos Santos, BRB/B.1.0 
 8. Reinick, Penarol0.7 
 9. Rougeau, Toros0.7 
 10. Gutierrez, Penarol0.7 


Liga-Americas Round: 4 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Group B
Halc.Xalapa - Caneros 109-94
Halcones Xalapa recorded the first Liga Americas victory. They coasted past Caneros in the first game in Group B for both teams. Six Halcones players scored in double figures. Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) led the effort with 19 points. Halcones Xalapa opened the game confidently. Roe and Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) drained triples to set the tempo. The hosts rallied comfortably to post a 26:15 lead ten minutes into the game. Halcones Xalapa did not slow down in the second quarter. The Mexican side unloaded 31 points to establish a 57:35 lead at the interval. Caneros finally managed to match the hosts effort in the third term. The Dominican Republic champions exploded with 30 points to stay hopeful. Caneros dominated the fourth period going for 29 points. But it was not enough to scare Halcones Xalapa. The home team enjoyed a massive cushion and rolled to the victory at the end. Louis Roe (200-F-72, college: Massachusetts) netted 17 points for Xalapa. Orlando Mendez-Valdez added 16 points and 8 assists in the win. Maurice Carter (183-G-83, college: Robert Morris) replied with 25 points for Caneros. Elys Guzman (206-F/C-82, college: Bemidji St.) had 18 points in the loss.

Defensor - BRB/Brasilia 81-84
The Brazilian champions Uniceub/BRB started their Liga Americas campaign with victory. They narrowly outscored Defensor of Uruguay in Group B opener in Xalapa. Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) knocked down 25 points to pace the effort. Uniceub/BRB and Defensor looked well-matched in the opening stanza. The teams traded baskets and eventually the Brazilian side eke out a 21:20 lead. Defensor stayed close throughout the second term but could not succeed. Uniceub/BRB rallied to a 43:39 halftime advantage. Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81, agency: Interperformances) and Alex Garcia organized a 9:2 run in the third term as Uniceub/BRB opened a double-digit advantage. They maintained it to enter the fourth quarter up by 10 points 68:58. Defensor fought bravely as they were able to narrow the distance at just two points 78:80. Nezinho dos Santos committed what could be a decisive turnover in the dying seconds but Izaguirre missed a three-pointer and could not force overtime in this one. Nezinho dos Santos tallied 16 points and 6 assists for Uniceub/BRB. Fabio Telminho Oliveira (195-F-79) and Lucas Tischer (208-C-83, agency: Interperformances) had 11 points each in the win. Clerence Matthews (201-F-83, college: Tennessee St.) replied with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Defensor. Brian Woodward (191-G-81, college: Rhode Island) provided 18 points in defeat.



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


Zalgiris replaces Petrovic with Grigas - by Eurobasket News
On the eve of a crucial Turkish Airlines Euroleague game, Zalgiris Kaunas announced Tuesday that former head coach Rimantas Grigas is replacing Aco Petrovic as head coach effective immediately. Grigas and assistant Oliver Kostic will run the teams Tuesday practice and be on the sideline for Wednesday's Group A contest against Caja Laboral in which Zalgiris can advance to the Top 16 with a win. Grigas, 48, previously led Zalgiris for a season-and-a-half. He took over in December 2006 and resigned shortly before the start of the 2007-08 season. He led the team to back-to-back Lithuanian titles, the 2008 Lithuanian Cup and the 2008 Baltic League crown. After leaving Zalgiris, Grigas coached Ukrainian side Budivelnik fro two seasons.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Best players of Lithuanian LKL round 12 - by Eurobasket News
Mantas Ruikis (198-G/F-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for Neptunas Klaipeda and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 25-year old swingman had the game-high 35 points adding three rebounds and three assists for Neptunas in his team's victory, helping them to beat Juventus (#5, 6-5) 85-72. Neptunas is placed at 8th position in Lithuanian LKL. Neptunas is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 4-6 record. In the team's last game Ruikis had a remarkable 69.2% from 2-point range. He turned to be Neptunas' top player in his first season with the team. Ruikis has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (2nd best: 18.8ppg) and averages solid 51.6% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old center Vitalijus Luksa (206-C-86) of Alytus Alita. Luksa impressed basketball fans with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists. Bad luck as Alytus Alita lost that game 78-91 to the higher-ranked Rudupis (#2, 8-2). Alytus Alita are still at the very bottom. 10 lost games is too many considering they did not win any game. Luksa is a newcomer at Alytus Alita and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was Lithuanian Virginijus Sirvydis (196-G/F-73) of Sakalai Vilnius (#12). Sirvydis scored 23 points and passed six assists. He was a key player of Sakalai, leading his team to a 74-68 win against the higher-ranked Aiscai Kaunas (#7, 4-6). Sakalai can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-7 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Sirvydis he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Sirvydis has a very solid season. In 9 games in Lithuania he scored 14.1ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vytenis Lipkevicius (198-F-89) of Rudupis - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) of Nevezis - 17 points and 12 rebounds
6. Povilas Butkevicius (201-F-87) of Rudupis - 17 points and 8 rebounds
7. Adas Juskevicius (194-G/F-89) of Rudupis - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Blaz Cresnar (214-C-86) of Nevezis - 10 points and 12 rebounds
9. Povilas Cukinas (210-C-83) of Aiscai Kaunas - 12 points and 7 rebounds
10. Gediminas Maceina (188-G-84) of Juventus - 13 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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


Caneros brushed aside by Halcones Xalapa - by Eurobasket News
Halcones Xalapa - Caneros 109:94

Halcones Xalapa recorded the first Liga Americas victory. They coasted past Caneros in the first game in Group B for both teams. Six Halcones players scored in double figures. Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) led the effort with 19 points.
Halcones Xalapa opened the game confidently. Roe and Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) drained triples to set the tempo. The hosts rallied comfortably to post a 26:15 lead ten minutes into the game. Halcones Xalapa did not slow down in the second quarter. The Mexican side unloaded 31 points to establish a 57:35 lead at the interval. Caneros finally managed to match the hosts effort in the third term. The Dominican Republic champions exploded with 30 points to stay hopeful. Caneros dominated the fourth period going for 29 points. But it was not enough to scare Halcones Xalapa. The home team enjoyed a massive cushion and rolled to the victory at the end. Louis Roe (200-F-72, college: Massachusetts) netted 17 points for Xalapa. Orlando Mendez-Valdez added 16 points and 8 assists in the win. Maurice Carter (183-G-83, college: Robert Morris) replied with 25 points for Caneros. Elys Guzman (206-F/C-82, college: Bemidji St.) had 18 points in the loss.

Halcones Xalapa: Hector Hernandez 19, Louis Roe 17, Orlando Mendez-Valdez 16
Caneros: Maurice Carter 25, Elys Guzman 18


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


Grizzlies assign Carroll D-League Wizards - by Eurobasket News
The Memphis Grizzlies assigned forward DeMarre Carroll (6'8''-F-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Missouri) to the Dakota Wizards, the teams NBA Development League affiliate, Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced Tuesday.

The 27th overall pick of the 2009 NBA Draft, Carroll holds career averages of 2.9 points and 2.1 rebounds in 10.9 minutes in 75 games (one start) in two seasons with the Grizzlies. The 6-8, 212-pound forward has appeared in four games this season, averaging 1.5 points and 1.5 rebounds in 5.0 minutes.

Carroll, who was named the Big 12 Tournament MVP as a senior at Missouri in 2009, is expected to make his D-League debut on Friday, Dec. 17, when the Wizards (1-9) host the Texas Legends (6-2).

The Grizzlies will try to extend their win streak to a season-best four games Wednesday night at 7:00pm when the team hosts the Charlotte Bobcats at FedExForum.

Courtesy of www.myfoxmemphis.com

Griz officials say no deals are imminent despite rumors about Mayo, Thabeet - by Eurobasket News
Trade rumors involving the Grizzlies are starting to swirl, but team brass put on ice Monday any notion that they are looking to deal guard O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87, college: USC) and/or center Hasheem Thabeet (7'3''-C-87, college: Connecticut).

One Internet report speculated that the team had given up on Thabeet, the No. 2 pick in 2009, and were actively shopping him. A different blog cited an unidentified source as declaring that Mayo could be headed to New York as soon as this week.

We are not trying to trade O.J. or Hasheem, said Griz owner Michael Heisley, who sat courtside Monday with Portland in town. We havent had any conversations about them, and I should know because Im the one making the decisions.

Griz coach Lionel Hollins said trade rumors involving Mayo will persist because of his move to the bench. It should be pointed out, too, that Mayo has not asked to be dealt.

A lot of people have speculated that hes going to be traded because hes not starting, Hollins said. Thats the nature of the media beast.

The blog that speculated about Mayos future quoted a source close to his family as saying Theyre gonna move him next week and I think hes gonna end up in New York.

From there, New York-area sports radio picked up the conversation.

Theres really nothing to say, Griz general manager Chris Wallace said. I dont have anything working right now.

Heisley told The Commercial Appeal last week that he wouldnt re-evaluate the teams roster until the Griz got closer to the All-Star break. The exception, however, would be if a deal comes along that dramatically improves the team.

Im sure Chris would listen to anybody that called to try and better our team, but thats not the case, Hollins said.

Thabeets reserve status has nothing to do with speculation involving a potential deal.

David Aldridge of NBA.com wrote: Memphis Hasheem Thabeet, who isnt one of the 2010 free agent signees but is getting shopped hard by the Grizzlies, who have their center of the future in Marc Gasol. So the Grizz are looking to cut bait with the second pick in the 09 Draft, whos already had an NBA D-League stint, as soon as possible.

Thabeet hasnt been a factor this season. Hes averaging less than a block and 1.3 rebounds in 8.4 minutes per game.

I would like to have Hasheem in the rotation, Hollins said. Its really hard when everybody weve played so far has had one big guy that plays inside and thats it. Hes making progress. Hes had really good practices. Im pleased with where he is.

Hollins said hes trying to give significant playing time to Darrell Arthur, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol just as hes trying to find major minutes for his crowded backcourt.

So far, Hollins said, its been more by feel than by a definite rotation.

Courtesy of www.commercialappeal.com

Derrick Rose suffers sprained wrist - by Eurobasket News
Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) sprained his right wrist at the end of Monday night's game against the Indiana Pacers at the United Center. X-rays on the wrist after the game were negative.

'I saw my whole future flash before my eyes, coming down,' Rose said of the hard fall he took in the fourth quarter. 'I thought it was going to be worse than that. But right now it just feels sore.'

Rose was cloaked in ice as he sat in front of his locker after the game. He had ice packs on both knees and his wrist, while soaking his feet in a vat of ice. Before the wrist injury, he also hurt his left ankle midway through the fourth quarter.

'All the bones are in the right place,' Bulls athletic trainer Fred Tedeschi said. 'So from that point, we know that it's not too severe from the sprain standpoint, so we'll just kind of keep our fingers crossed and hope it stays that way.'

Rose will be re-evaluated on Tuesday before the Bulls leave for Toronto.

'That's basketball,' Rose said of his injuries. 'Some of the times, the games are going to be physical. And you got to be able to play through them.'

Rose understands that he is likely going to be very sore. He struggled to put his socks on as he was getting dressed to leave.

'I know [Tuesday] is going to probably be a bad day,' he said. 'Especially resting, sleeping, it's going to get tight. Everything's going to get tight on my body, but [I'll] get treatment and we got to play in a couple more days.'

Rose scored 17 points and dished out 12 assists in Monday night's 92-73 win over the Pacers. It was the Bulls' sixth straight win.

Courtesy of ESPN

Dwight Howard says he's 'retired for life' from dunk contest - by Eurobasket News
Superman has been seen for the last time soaring above NBA rims.

At least in the dunk contest.

'I'm retired for life,'' Orlando center Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85) said in an interview with FanHouse on Monday about how he won't ever again compete in the NBA dunk contest during All-Star Weekend

Howard won the event in 2008 in New Orleans with a variety of innovative dunks, including one in which he donned a Superman cape. He finished second in Phoenix in 2009 to Nate Robinson before electing not to compete last season.

He won't be competing Feb. 19 in Los Angeles during All-Star Weekend nor ever again.

'I don't want to do it,'' Howard, 25, said after the Magic practiced at the Pepsi Center on Monday in preparation for Tuesday's game against Denver. 'I want to let other people have an opportunity to shine. I (have done) the dunk contest too many times. I'm over with it.''

Howard also competed in the 2007 event in Las Vegas. He didn't advance to the final round despite a dunk he made after putting a sticker on the top of the backboard, 2 feet above the rim.

'I do too much running and jumping during the season,'' Howard said of the extra wear and tear of competing in the contest. 'By the time the dunk contest comes around, my legs are as beat as anything.''

Howard didn't deny there's pressure in competing in the contest due to expectations to continue to raise the creative bar on his dunks.

'Yeah,'' said Howard, agreeing there's pressure. 'Some people say it's pressure that I don't do it. But I really don't want to do it anymore.''

And he won't.

Courtesy of http://nba.fanhouse.com

Yao Ming says he's OK, waiting for 'green light' to play - by Eurobasket News
Ming Yao (7'5''-C-80) said he feels like he is ready to play. The Rockets center has not been cleared to rejoin the team's workouts because team doctors want him to strengthen the muscles in his left ankle, weakened since his Nov. 10 injury.

'I'm waiting for the green light,' Yao said. 'When? I don't know. I feel better. It still has some weakness. I'm just not ready to sit out for almost 20 games, particularly when I feel I'm OK. I know when I was in the walking boot, on the crutches, OK, I understand.

'I won't push the trainer or the doctor. They all try to treat me the best that they can. I know they try to find the best way for me to get back on the court.'

Yao would not say if he would be playing if the decision were his to make, but when asked if he has made it known how he feels, he laughed and said, 'I tell them every day.'

Coach Rick Adelman said he has not been told when Yao will be cleared to practice.

Courtesy of www.chron.com

Tuesday's games (7) review - by Eurobasket News
Houston R. - Sacramento K. 118-105
Luis Scola (6'9''-F/C-80) had 23 points and 10 rebounds in three quarters, and the Houston Rockets cruised to 118-105 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night. The Rockets used a big run late in the first half to take over and outscored Sacramento 33-24 in the third quarter to put away the game. Scola was key in Houston's third-quarter dominance, scoring 14 points on 6-of-7 shooting and making both of his free throws. Houston's Jordan Hill provided the highlight of the game in the fourth quarter when he took a nice pass from Chase Budinger in the lane and finished with a monster one-handed dunk over Samuel Dalembert, who fouled him. Hill high-fived a fan before heading to the free throw line, where he made the foul shot to make it 100-80 with nine minutes remaining. The Kings played without Tyreke Evans, who sat out with a sore left foot. They were led by DeMarcus Cousins (6'11''-F-90, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) and former Rockets forward Carl Landry, who had 17 points apiece. Scola went to the bench with about 11 minutes remaining and Houston leading 95-76 and didn't return. The Rockets got 18 points from Budinger, and Kevin Martin added 14 against his former team. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Denver N. - Orlando M. 111-94
Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) scored 35 points and the Denver Nuggets pulled away in the final five minutes to beat the Orlando Magic 111-94 despite J.J. Redick (6'4''-G-84, college: Duke) 's career-high 29 points. With Denver leading 92-91, Arron Afflalo's 3-pointer jump-started the Nuggets on a 19-3 run to close out the game. Anthony hit 14 of 21 shots from the floor and pulled down 11 rebounds. Nene had 10 points and 10 boards for the Nuggets, who were coming off a 1-3 trip and improved to an NBA-best 11-1 at home. Anthony's three-point play put Denver on top 98-91 moments before Nene and Dwight Howard drew a double-technical for shoving each other under the Magic's basket. Anthony added a rim-rattler of a dunk. *Courtesy of www.kktv.com

Golde State W. - Minnesota T. 108-99
Jonny Flynn (6'0''-G-89, college: Syracuse) and Martell Webster (6'8''-G-86) both made their season debut in Tuesday's 108-99 loss to the Golden State Warriors. Webster showed why the Wolves were willing to part with a first-round pick this summer to acquire him from the Portland Trailblazers, scoring 17 points on 6-8 shooting and displaying the athleticism in 26 minutes played that will make him a key spark off the bench. Flynn, on the other hand, showed the inconsistent play that led fans to such a love-hate relationship with him during his rookie season. This was on full display with 7:16 left in the game, Flynn took an outlet pass from Webster, quickly dribbled up the court, took two steps inside the three-point line, fired up a contested 26-foot shot that didn't hit rim and led to an Acie Law layup on the other end. Flynn finished with just three points and four assists in 16 minutes It is only Flynn's first game back so it is too early to make judgments, but Luke Ridnour is still the best point guard on the team. Which is unfortunate for the Wolves because there aren't many other teams in the league Ridnour would start for, which isn't a slight against him as he was brought in this summer to play a backup/mentor role. The focus pregame was on the return of Flynn and Webster but it was once again Darko Milicic who continued his pleasently surprising play this season. The Warriors had no answer inside for Darko, who put up a career high 25 points--besting his 23 point game earlier in the season against the Los Angeles Lakers--on 12-of-19 shooting and adding 11 points. Kevin Love put up his league-leading 20th double double for the season with 13 points and 14 rebounds. Love did, however, snap a streak of 10 straight games grabbing 15 rebounds a game. *Courtesy of ESPN

New Jersey N. - Philadelph.76 77-82
Spencer Hawes (7'0''-C-88, college: Washington) scored a season-high 18 points and the Philadelphia 76ers snapped an eight-game road losing streak with an 82-77 victory over the slumping New Jersey Nets on Tuesday night. Jrue Holiday (6'3''-G-90, college: UCLA) had 19 points and Elton Brand added 15 as the 76ers won for only the second time in 12 road games and ended their longest losing streak away from home since 2006. Philadelphia has won two straight and six of eight after a 3-13 start. Brook Lopez scored 16 points for the Nets, who lost their eighth straight overall and sixth straight to the 76ers. Devin Harris and Travis Outlaw added 14 points apiece for New Jersey, which just came up short with a late run. The Nets played without swingman Terrence Williams. The team's 2009 first-round draft pick was sent home before the game because he is reportedly part of a three-team trade with the Rockets and Lakers. Williams will go to Houston. New Jersey will get the Rockets' first-round draft pick in 2012, the Lakers' first-round pick in 2011 and current Lakers shooting guard Sasha Vujacic. The Lakers would get veteran forward Joe Smith, who was active for the Nets on Tuesday night. The deal cannot be completed until Dec. 15 because Smith signed with the Nets in the offseason as a free agent. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Washington W. - LA Lakers 89-103
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) took over the game by scoring 16 of his 24 points in the third quarter, and Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) added seven points in his season debut Tuesday night as the Los Angeles Lakers beat the undermanned Washington Wizards 103-89. Bryant scored 12 straight Lakers points during a 17-2 third-quarter run that put the game away. The Lakers won for the fifth time in six games, including three of the first four on their seven-game East Coast road trip. Bryant's hot streak came shortly after a dubious NBA hat trick. Fouled while attempting a 3-pointer, he missed all three free throws to the boos and laughter of the Verizon Center crowd. A few minutes later, Bryant had quieted the Wizards fans and had the large contingent of Lakers fans cheering. His fadeaway 3-pointer from the left baseline rolled around the rim and fell in. Then came a 3-pointer from the right baseline. Then he was fouled attempting another 3, and this time he made all three free throws. Then came another 3 that made the score 80-64. Bryant played only 24 minutes - scoring exactly a point per minute on the floor - and finished 7 for 13 from the field, including 4 for 6 from 3-point range. Bynum, who had offseason surgery to repair a partially torn ligament in his right knee, came off the bench and played 17 minutes, shooting 1 for 5 from the field and 5 for 8 from the free throw line. Pau Gasol added 16 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for the Lakers. Lamar Odom had 18 points and 10 rebounds, and Shannon Brown scored 16 points. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Charlotte B. - Toronto R. 97-91
Nazr Mohammed (6'10''-C-77, college: Kentucky) had 18 points and eight rebounds, Tyrus Thomas (6'8''-F-86, agency: Impact Basketball, college: LSU) hit the go-ahead jumper with just over a minute left, and the Charlotte Bobcats overcame Stephen Jackson's poor night to beat the Toronto Raptors 97-91 on Tuesday night. With Jackson held to seven points before fouling out, reserves played key roles as the Bobcats snapped a two-game skid. Thomas, in his return after missing two games with a sore calf, scored 14 points and his mid-range jumper with 1:20 left put Charlotte ahead to stay. Little-used Matt Carroll, playing for Jackson, then hit a cutting Boris Diaw for a half-hook on Charlotte's next possession to make it 93-89. The Raptors wilted from there in their fifth loss in six games despite 17 points and nine assists from Jerryd Bayless. In their first game since rallying from 25 points down in Detroit for the largest comeback victory in franchise history, the Raptors squandered a 12-point, first-half lead as they played their third straight game without point guard Jose Calderon (sore left foot). DeMar DeRozan added 14 points and Amir Johnson, Andrea Bargnani and Linas Kleiza each scored 12 for Toronto, which shot 40 percent and committed 19 turnovers. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Detroit P. - Atlanta H. 103-80
The Detroit Pistons had one of the biggest meltdowns in franchise history Saturday night. On Tuesday, they weren't going to let it happen again. In their first game since blowing a 25-point lead in an embarrassing loss to Toronto, the Pistons absorbed a third-quarter rally before pulling away for a 103-80 victory against the Atlanta Hawks. Detroit led 49-37 at halftime before the Hawks scored the first 11 points of the third quarter. Detroit scored the next five points, though, and Atlanta was never able to catch up. 'That was huge,' Pistons coach John Kuester said. 'This game is fragile -- don't ever forget that. During a run like that, everyone is second-guessing themselves, but we did a great job of executing at that point and kept them from getting ahead of us.' Richard Hamilton (6'7''-G-78, college: Connecticut) scored 24 points and Charlie Villanueva (6'10''-F-84, college: Connecticut) added 23 points and 11 rebounds for Detroit (8-18). 'We know we are a much better team than our record shows,' Villanueva said. 'We were desperate to get a win tonight after what we did against Toronto.' Josh Smith led the Hawks with 26 points, while Al Horford added 17 points and 12 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com



Nets deal Williams to Rockets, get Lakers' Vujacic in three-team swap - by Eurobasket News
The New Jersey Nets, Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers have agreed in principle to a deal that will send Terrence Williams (6'6''-F-87, college: Louisville) to Houston, Sasha Vujacic (6'7''-G-84) to New Jersey and Joe Smith (6'10''-F-75, college: Maryland) to Los Angeles, a league source confirmed to SI.com. The Nets will also receive a first-round pick from the Lakers in 2011 and a lottery protected first-rounder from Houston in 2012.

The deal was first reported by northjersey.com and Yahoo! Sports.

By picking up two more first-round picks, New Jersey GM Billy King has positioned the team as major players on the trade market. The Nets now have five first-round picks over the next two years, assets that could impact New Jersey's pursuit of Carmelo Anthony. The Nets have offered Denver rookie Derrick Favors, Troy Murphy and two first-round picks for Anthony. By acquiring two more No. 1 picks, the Nets could sweeten the pot or lure in a third team with players that appeal to the Nuggets.

On Sunday, ESPN reported Anthony would only sign a contract extension if he was traded to New York. However multiple sources told SI.com that Anthony is still open to signing an extension with New Jersey. The Nets are scheduled to begin play in Brooklyn -- Anthony's hometown -- in 2012.

By continuing to accumulate assets, the Nets clearly believe they are still in the race.

Williams has been on the trading block for several weeks. On November 26, he was assigned to the D-League, a demotion that was due, in part, to disciplinary reasons. Williams had repeatedly been late for shootarounds, practices and team meetings.

The 11th overall pick in the 2009 draft, Williams averaged 6.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 10 games with the Nets this season.

The Lakers obtain some financial relief by dumping Vujacic, who is scheduled to make $5.5 million this season. Vujacic had fallen out of the Lakers rotation this season, averaging 1.8 points in just under five minutes per game.

Smith, 35, has played in four games this season after signing a one-year, $1.4 million deal with the Nets this offseason.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Nuggets' Chauncey Billups sidelined for a week with wrist injury - by Eurobasket News
In the end, the wrist just didn't feel good enough to continue on.

Nuggets guard Chauncey Billups (6'3''-G-76, college: Colorado) gutted out game-after-game with a wrist he sprained in a hard fall against New Jersey on Nov. 20. But after tweaking it during the second quarter of the Nuggets' game at Toronto last Friday, Billups knew he had to get wrist re-examined.

'I was just like I really need to get this thing looked at,' Billups said. 'So I got an MRI on it yesterday and the results showed that I have a tear in there.'

And a specialist this morning told Billups he doesn't just have one ligament tear, but possibly two. As a result, the Nuggets starting point guard will sit out for a week in hopes that rest will speed up the healing process enough for him to fight through discomfort upon his return.

It would be the best-case scenario for Billups. Other options on the table include sitting out 4-6 weeks or -possibly having surgery. But, Billups said 'I'm not about to have surgery on it and miss a substantial amount of time. They told me it should feel better if I rest it up for a week. It's supposed to feel better by then. But of course the best scenario is for me to rest it for 4-6 weeks and do nothing, but I can't do that. So if I can get it to where it's not very much pain '

Billups, who is averaging 14.4 points and 5.4 assists, said the wrist has prevented him from being effective in some of the simplest areas of playing basketball.

'I can't make a chest pass,' he said. 'I can't really follow through on my shot, and those are big things for my game.'

Asked if he would consider surgery if the wrist didn't feel right after a week off, he said no.

'Not really,' Billups said. 'I haven't really gotten there. I'm banking on the fact that it's going to feel better. The thing that makes me feel good about it is I was playing with it all this time, and even with playing with it there was a time that it felt a little better. So I feel like I can get there again. But to keep banging it isn't going to be the solution right now.

'Playing with it really wasn't all that beneficial to me because I wasn't playing that great because I couldn't do some of the things that I can usually do. And two, if I'm not playing that great it doesn't really help the team out that much. So I should try to get it better a little bit.'

Ty Lawson will start in Billups' place tonight.

'I'm just going to try to play fast, prepare the same way, do everything the same way,' said Lawson, who has averaged 15.5 points and 4.0 assists as a starter this season.

'He's going to be fine,' Billups said. 'I was just telling him to be aggressive, use what God gave you and that's his speed. There's not a lot of guys that can move with the ball like he can. He's got to use that as an advantage for him, for us as a team. Ty's going to be fine.'

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 27.3
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.3 
 2. Bryant, LA Lakers26.6 
 3. Stoudemire, New Y.26.2 
 4. Nowitzki, Dallas M.25.2 
 5. Rose, Chicago B.24.7 
 6. Gordon, LA Clippers24.5 
 7. Ellis, Golde S.24.4 
 8. James, Miami Heat24.0 
 9. Anthony, Denver N.23.7 
 10. Westbrook, Oklah..23.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.6
 1. Love, Minnesota T.15.6 
 2. Bogut, Milwauke.12.3 
 3. Randolph, Memph.12.3 
 4. Howard, Orlando M.12.1 
 5. Evans, Toronto R.12.1 
 6. Griffin, LA Clipp.11.9 
 7. Noah, Chicago B.11.7 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers11.3 
 9. Camby, Portland TB11.1 
 10. Lee, Golde S.10.1 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Rondo, Boston C.13.7 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.2 
 3. Paul, N.Orleans H.9.8 
 4. Williams, Utah Jazz9.8 
 5. Kidd, Dallas M.8.9 
 6. Wall, Washington W.8.9 
 7. Westbrook, Oklah..8.8 
 8. Felton, New Y.8.7 
 9. Rose, Chicago B.8.3 
 10. Nelson, Orlando M.7.3 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 3
 1. Paul, N.Orleans H.3.0 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.2.3 
 3. Wall, Washington W.2.3 
 4. Ellis, Golde S.2.3 
 5. Curry, Golde S.2.2 
 6. Westbrook, Oklah..2.1 
 7. Conley, Memphis G.2.1 
 8. Felton, New Y.2.0 
 9. Miller, Portland.1.9 
 10. Lowry, Houston R.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Bogut, Milwauke.2.9 
 2. Milicic, Minnesota T.2.8 
 3. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.5 
 4. Howard, Orlando M.2.3 
 5. McGee, Washingt.2.3 
 6. Smith, Atlanta H.2.2 
 7. Gasol, LA Lakers2.2 
 8. Stoudemire, New Y.1.9 
 9. Dalembert, Sacram.1.9 
 10. Okafor, N.Orlean.1.8 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 19-4 
 2. New York K. 16-9 
 3. Philadelph.76 9-15 
 4. Toronto R. 9-16 
 5. New Jersey N. 6-19 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 15-8 
 2. Indiana P. 11-12 
 3. Milwaukee B. 10-13 
 4. Detroit P. 8-18 
 5. Cleveland C. 7-17 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 18-8 
 2. Orlando M. 16-9 
 3. Atlanta H. 16-10 
 4. Charlotte B. 9-15 
 5. Washington W. 6-17 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Utah Jazz 18-8 
 2. Oklah.City T. 17-8 
 3. Denver N. 15-9 
 4. Portland TB 12-13 
 5. Minnesota T. 6-19 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 18-7 
 2. Phoenix Suns 11-12 
 3. Golde State W. 9-16 
 4. Sacramento K. 5-17 
 5. LA Clippers 5-20 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 20-3 
 2. Dallas M. 19-5 
 3. N.Orleans H. 14-10 
 4. Memphis G. 11-14 
 5. Houston R. 10-14 


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


DePaul 61, Wis.-Milwaukee 47 - by Milord Nikolic
The Blue Demons (4-6) needed a win, and got one by improving to 10-0 against the Panthers. DePaul was down by as many as nine points in the first half, but battled back to take a 29-25 lead at the break. Mike Stovall scored nine points in the opening 20 minutes and Cleveland Melvin added six. Freeland scored eight of his points in the second half as DePaul outscored Wisconsin-Milwaukee 32-22 to pull away. Anthony Hill and JaRob McCallum scored 10 points apiece to lead the Panthers.


Summit's Oakland upsets No. 7 Tennessee 89-82 - by Eurobasket News
Oakland coach Greg Kampe kept telling his players they were just as good as the ranked opponents they have been playing this season. In their fourth game against a Top 25 team, they finally got their upset.

Keith Benson (6'11''-C-88), last seasons Summit League player of the year, had 26 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Golden Grizzlies to an 89-82 victory over No. 7 Tennessee on Tuesday night.

They took lessons from games in which they played Illinois and Purdue, both ranked teams from the Big Ten, close but not for a full 40 minutes. They almost beat then-No. 7 Michigan State, also of the Big Ten, on Saturday but lost by a point after they failed to make free throws down the stretch.

Were not scared of anybody, Kampe said. We werent intimidated by the No. 7 team in the country because we had just played Michigan State, and we should have won that game. We had just played Illinois, and we could have won that game. I think those are big and can help us.

Oakland (6-5) put together a tough schedule this season to prepare them to make another run at winning the Summit League and an NCAA tournament appearance. The win over the Vols was just the Grizzlies second against a Top 25 opponent in 27 tries since joining Division I in 1998, and they still have a Dec. 23 date with No. 2 Ohio State.

It was only the second time Tennessee (7-1) has lost on its home court to a non-conference opponent in coach Bruce Pearls six seasons. The loss came one day after the Vols climbed into the Top 10 and grabbed the No. 1 RPI after beating then-No. 3 Pittsburgh.

This was a combination of running into a good basketball team and not being able to handle success despite our best efforts to get our team excited about playing, Pearl said.

Oakland was in a similar situation against Tennessee as it had found itself against its previous three ranked opponents. The Grizzlies came out shooting well and played the Vols close throughout the first half, with three lead changes and five ties. The Grizzlies were shooting 70.6 percent with seven minutes to go in the first half thanks in part to Bensons 20 points but the Vols used a 14-2 run to counter the shooting and had a 50-39 halftime lead.

OAKLAND, MICH. (6-5): Hudson 5-9 7-9 17, Valentine 1-1 0-0 2, Benson 9-16 6-6 26, Wright 6-9 4-4 19, Hamilton 1-6 2-4 4, Bader 2-5 0-0 5, Eackles 4-8 3-5 12, Maynard 0-0 0-0 0, Bass 0-0 0-0 0, Milutinovic 2-2 0-0 4. Totals 30-56 22-28 89.

TENNESSEE (7-1): Harris 6-13 4-6 16, Williams 7-12 4-8 18, Goins 7-10 3-4 18, Tatum 4-12 3-3 13, Hopson 1-7 5-6 7, Golden 1-3 2-2 5, McBee 0-1 0-0 0, Hall 1-1 1-1 3, Pearl 0-1 0-1 0, Fields 1-3 0-0 2. Totals 28-63 22-31 82.

HalftimeTennessee 50-39. 3-Point Goals_Oakland, Mich. 7-18 (Wright 3-5, Benson 2-4, Bader 1-2, Eackles 1-3, Hamilton 0-4), Tennessee 4-18 (Tatum 2-7, Golden 1-1, Goins 1-3, McBee 0-1, Harris 0-3, Hopson 0-3). Fouled OutNone. ReboundsOakland, Mich. 36 (Benson 10), Tennessee 35 (Williams 13). AssistsOakland, Mich. 13 (Wright 6), Tennessee 16 (Goins 6). Total FoulsOakland, Mich. 22, Tennessee 25. A16,784.

Courtesy of www.inforum.com

Drexel deals No. 20 L'ville first loss in new arena - by Eurobasket News
Rick Pitino didn't buy into the hype, even as No. 20 Louisville ripped off eight straight wins to open the season.

The coach refused to say whether the Cardinals were 'legit' following a victory over UNLV last weekend, believing all the 22nd-ranked Runnin' Rebels did was expose his team's weaknesseseven if he refused to say what they were.

There's no need for him to expand now, not after Drexel methodically dismantled the Cardinals 52-46 on Tuesday night, ending Louisville's unbeaten run at its new downtown arena.

The Dragons (7-1) slowed the tempo and made the Cardinals (8-1) work while never backing down to post their first win over a ranked team in four years.

'It's big for our program, it's big for our confidence,' Drexel coach Bruiser Flint said. 'You can't come in here and lay down.'

Drexel hardly did that, dominating the Cardinals on the glass while maintaining a glacial pace to end Louisville's best start since 1996.

Gerald Colds (6'1''-G) scored 20 points, Chris Fouch (6'2''-G) added 10 and the Dragons made all the little plays in a taut second half.

'Everybody came in thinking we were better than them,' Colds said. 'We felt we could it. We knew it would be physical. We had to rebound, be strong on offense and slow them down.'

Preston Knowles and Peyton Siva led Louisville with 13 points each but the Cardinals made just one field goal over the final 8:30.

'We didn't rebound,' Pitino said. 'That tells the story, 46-26, a very simple stat.'
Louisville rolled to eight straight wins at the sparkling KFC Yum! Center to start the season and make a surprise appearance in the Top 25.

While Pitino stressed his team was too humble to get overconfident, the Cardinals certainly looked it at times against the Dragons in a dismal performance that exposed some of the flaws they had masked so well during their hot start.

'Coach warned us, told us Drexel could beat us if we didn't bring our 'A' game,' forward Stephan Van Treese said. 'We obviously didn't bring our 'A' game.'

Louisville made just 4 of 16 3-pointers, allowed 11 second-chance points and struggled to get good shots when forced to run a halfcourt offense.

'When you don't get out on the break and don't rebound and do the little things that help you score (you lose),' Pitino said. 'They deserve the victory and we didn't. Give them the credit.'

Drexel repeatedly beat the Cardinals to loose balls to overcome 22 turnovers and an ice-cold 12-for-25 performance at the free throw line.

Louisville wasn't any better. The Cardinals came in shooting 67 percent from the line this year but also went 12 for 25 including some key misses in the second half.

Despite its sluggish play, Louisville appeared to be in control when a 3-pointer by Knowles gave the Cardinals a 33-26 lead with 17 minutes to play.

Yet Louisville squandered numerous opportunities to blow it open, and Drexel made the Cardinals pay by staying patient and never panicking.

'We brought the intensity and we kept them playing our game at our pace,' Drexel forward Samme Givens (6'5''-F) said. 'We knew if we did that we could compete and get the win.'

Givens gave Drexel a 43-42 lead on a layup and the Dragons slowlyvery slowlyextended it.

Still, the Cardinals had their chances in the final minutes but simply couldn't make shots. Louisville missed 11 of its last 12 field goals, including a 3-point attempt by Mike Marra that would have tied it at 47.

It was enough to let the Dragons hold on. They chased down a couple of key offensive rebounds in the last 3 minutes to extend possessions and deflate the Cardinals.

Drexel held Louisville 36 points below its season average to beat a ranked team for the first time since toppling then-No. 23 Syracuse in 2006.

The Dragons succeeded in doing what most of Louisville's early season opponents have failed to accomplish: keep the tempo reasonable and not let the Cardinals go off to the races.

Drexel made Louisville consistently burn 20-25 seconds off the shot clock, denying the Cardinals open 3-point looks and challenging them to drive the ball.

It worked perfectly.

The Cardinals were hamstrung in the middle in the first half when centers Terrence Jennings and Gorgui Dieng both picked up two quick fouls.

Siva provided a spark during a 13-1 run that gave Louisville a 22-17 lead, but the Dragons ended the half with an 8-1 burst capped by a 3-pointer from Fouch just before the horn.

It marked Louisville's lowest scoring half of the season and a sign of things to come.

'We knew we couldn't let up,' Givens said. 'It feels great to get a win like this. We have to make sure we don't let it go to our heads.'

Courtesy of www.sgvtribune.com

Puerto Rico seeks Rick Pitino's help to reach Olympics - by Eurobasket News
The president of the Puerto Rican Basketball Federation says the national team is in 'very advanced talks' with Louisville's Rick Pitino about coaching the club in pre-Olympic qualifying next summer.

Federation president Carlos J. Beltran says Tuesday the team is hoping Pitino will be its coach during the pre-Olympic qualifying tournament in Argentina in August.

Beltran says the process has not been completed but 'we are very close. There are just a few details we are completing.'

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

*****************************************************
  PALESTINE   


Sarrieyet Ramallah Champs of AlShuhada Tournament De La Salle 2nd again - by Tamara Awartani
The 30th Shuhada (Martyrs) Tournament organized annually by Sarrieyet Ramallah Club finished successfully with 16 teams taking part along with a team AlRaineh from the 1948 occupied Palestine and no imports. Unfortunately half way, Ibdaa (champ of 2009 & 2010) and AlRaineh withdrew from the tournament making the road easier for Sarriyet Ramallah.

Sarriyet Ramallah managed to be the champions for the tournament after a tough game against De La Salle Jerusalem, both played well having two new members on the team who previously played for Jordanian teams, Fadi Awad (196-C-82) for Sarriyeh and Musa Bashir (206-C-78) for De La Salle , but a lot of tension was in the air. Sarriyet Ramallah having a new coach 'Terry' (Ibdaa Coach last season) and De La Salle's new coach 'Sameer Hlaileh' (a previous national team player) Morever, the other teams also played well in the tournament showing good skill.
Orthodox Bethlehem took 3rd place while Huwarra took 4th place. Orthodox Beit Jala, Birzeit, Faraa, Samaritans, Hiteen, Catholic Action, Ahli, Ibdaa, Islami, Orthodox Beit Sahour, Albireh and alRaineh (1948) also took part.



Final Game
Sarriyet Ramallah vs. De La Salle 75 67
The court packed with people from the minister of sports, sponsors till fans for both teams the game took place that started off very tense ofcourse. Both teams under pressure, De la salle who recently won 2nd place in the league and Sarriyet Ramallah who are organizing the touranament and one of the strongest teams in the league.
De La Salle started off focused and strong leading 20 10 through Tawfiq Richard Rafidi, Hazem Khattab and Sari Amer with their shots, Labib Feidy (194-F-83, college: Florida Southern) who recently got back and Musa Bashir under basket while the young Telly Rafidi also showed his game. While Sarrieyet were catching up the captain Ibrahim Al Habash (194-F-75) with his strong drives, assisted by John Saadeh , Jack Tannous quickness, Murad Abu Laban and Saleem Sakakinin under basket with a new face in the shuhada tournament Daud Abu Qweider from the u18, who played strong full of energy and passion. The 2nd quarter wasnt going good for both teams both got out of the game, finishing 9 7 for Sarriyet! And that was the start for them to get them going leading the 3rd quarter 29 14. De La Salle had a wake up call in the 4th and started playing stronger not giving Sarriyet an easy game being down by one point 27 -26 but Musa Bashir getting fouled out in the start of the 4th quarter affected his team being a key player under basket giving Sarriyet yet another win for the 30th AlShuhada (Martyrs) Tournament.



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


Rochester RazorSharks eager to start fresh - by Eurobasket News
Entering his sixth training camp with the Rochester RazorSharks basketball team, one might figure Keith Friel (6'4''-G-77, college: Virginia) wouldn't be looking forward to it again.

That couldn't be further from the truth, however, as Friel, a core of five other returning players, and 12 newcomers opened camp for the 2010-2011 Premier Basketball League season.

'Obviously the offseason was a little too long for my liking, especially coming off a loss,' Friel said following the team's second two-hour training session Monday at Penfield's Eastside YMCA. 'Maybe last year we got a little bit complacent and resting on our laurels. It just seemed that the effort wasn't there night in and night out. Also the effort wasn't there in practice.

'I am hungry and it's crazy now to think that this is my sixth camp. You think it would be old, but we've got so many new guys in and it's refreshing to get that going again.'

Rochester enters the new season with a renewed outlook after losing in the three-game championship series against Lawton-Fort Sill.

'There are certain tenets of RazorSharks basketball,' said coach Rod Baker. 'You've got to be able to guard, be able to talk, be able to run. Winning has to matter for something. We are trying to instill that thought process. If we can do those things, the details of basketball will take care of themselves.'

The RazorSharks entered the offseason with a desire to find longer, more athletic players who would allow the team to thrive in a fast-break offense.

'The years that we've won, we've been more up-and-down,' said Friel, the only original player still with the team. 'Quite frankly, we've been in better shape than most teams and we've out-executed them. Let's get back to what we do best. Let's get out there and get them easy shots as opposed to letting the defense get set and forcing a bad shot late in the shot clock.'

The new faces include former University of Kentucky forward Perry Stevenson and first-round pick Steffon Farley, a 6-foot-8 power forward out of Division II Adelphi University.
Baker is expected to keep 12 players when Rochester opens the season New Year's Eve against Dayton.

Marlin Johnson, Rochester's leading rebounder from last season, expects the returning players to lead the newcomers by example.

'I think it's changed, the way some of the veterans approach things,' said Johnson, a former standout at Monroe Community College and Franklin High. 'We know what it takes to get back there and we are trying to mold some of these young guys to show them how to get back to that point. Based on whatever we assemble here, we'll be able to conquer what we didn't do last year.'

Courtesy of www.democratandchronicle.com

Rainmen release Aaron Spears - by Eurobasket News
This weekend the Halifax Rainmen released 6'9 centre Aaron Spears (6'10''-C-84, college: St.John's) from their preseason roster.

'We didn't feel Aaron would give us the consistency needed to be successful in the position we were looking for him to fill,' said Halifax Rainmen President & CEO, Andre Levingston.

The release of Spears brings the Rainmen's preseason roster down to 12 players vying for a spot on a 10-man team.

The Rainmen will kick off their fourth season with the sold out Rogers Slam Dunk Fan Night at the Halifax Metro Centre on Thursday, December 16 at 7 pm. Tickets for the Rainmen's December 17 home game against the Quebec Kebs are now on sale for the preseason rate of $10. Tickets can be purchased at any Ticket Atlantic location or at the Metro Centre Box Office. For the latest Halifax Rainmen news, please visit www.rainmenbasketball.ca.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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


Ateneo-Adamson Philippines wallops Thailand National Team, 83-63 - by Ryan Asis Maniago
The Philippines, represented here by collegiate champions Ateneo de Manila University and reinforced by four players from rival Adamson University, overwhelmed the Thailand National Team, 83-63, at the 18th 3D-Gold Super Kung Sheung Cup held at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium in Hong Kong.

King Eagle heir apparent Kirk Long and Adamson Falcons stalwart Julius Colina, who just a week earlier were at each other's throats at the 2010 PCCL Championship in Manila, joined forces in dismantling the Thai defense with their inside-outside game and well-oiled plays. The duo topscored for the Philippine side with 20 points apiece, with Bacon Austria of Ateneo providing able back-up with 10 points.

After a slow start that saw the Thais erecting a short-lived, four-point lead in the first quarter, 19-15, the Filipinos tightened the screws on defense to build a 36-26 lead at the half.

Long then teamed up with Adamson arch-rival Alex Nuyles in slamming the gas pedal at the start of the third canto, as they outran, outgunned and outfoxed their opponents en route to a 61-45 cushion entering the fourth quarter. Nuyles, who struggled in the first half, wowed the predominantly Hong Kong crowd with a breakaway slam off a Kirk Long feed.

Thai pivotman Thonchai Thippayaprapai and gutsy forward Darongpan Apiromvilaichai were the lone bright spots for Thailand, scoring 14 and 11 points, respectively.

A sizeable Filipino contingent among the audience expressed optimism at the Philippines' chances here, especially after a disappointing finish by the CESAFI All-Stars in the 2008 edition, which saw a collegiate selection from Cebu bannered by 6'10 behemoth Junmar Fajardo, getting whipped by host Hong Kong, 100-61, in the finals.

The coaching staff, however, are wary of the size advantage of the other teams, particularly the two club teams from China and the Southern California Fukienese Association, bolstered by athletic African-Americans and youtube sensation David Kalb, renowned for beating Lebron James in a game of H-O-R-S-E.

The Ateneo Blue Eagles, three-peat UAAP Champions, earned the right to represent the Philippines in the tournament by beating the Adamson Soaring Falcons at the recently concluded PCCL Champsionship in Manila. Interestingly, Adamson loaned four cagers to bolster Ateneo's roster here after key players from the Ateneo side had begged off for academic reasons.

The Philippines next takes on the GCC Group and Xin Cheng Holdings basketball teams of China, hoping to land in the top two in their group to break into the semifinal round.

PHL 83 - Long 20, Colina 20, Austria 10, Alvarez 8, Dela Cruz 6, Sumalinog 6, Nuyles 4, Erram 4, Salva 3, Camson 2, Golla 0, Tiongson 0

THA 63 - Thongchai 14, Darunpong 11, Darongpan 10, Kittipot 9, Thansith 4, Paramet 4, Kittisak 4, Suttiket 3, Sakgarin 2, Pongsago 2

Article by Ryan Asis Maniago




Ateneo-Adamson 'Big Birds' soar over GCC of China, 78-73 - by Ryan Asis Maniago

HONG KONG - Philippine collegiate powerhouses Ateneo de Manila and Adamson University barely scraped by the towers of China's GCC basketball team but prevailed at crunch time, 78-73, in a highly physical and heart-stopping ballgame at the 18th 3-D Gold Super Kung Sheung Cup at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium here.

Blue Eagles Kirk Long and Bacon Austria, together with Adamson standout Lester Alvarez, came through with clutch plays in the final minute to cap the Filipinos' come-from-behind rally, fearlessly attacking the rim despite the superior height of the Chinese.

Long, who was limited to 2 points in the first half, scattered 15 points in the second half and took charge in the fourth quarter, where he teamed up with Alvarez in orchestrating the Philippine attack.

Bothered by China's length and quickness, the Filipinos played catch-up for most of the game, conceding rebounds and second- and even third-chance points to GCC, which led 37-31 at halftime.

Spitfirish 6'3' forward Shang Lei of GCC also torched the Filipinos with 19 points in the first half en route to a game-high 38 points, firing threes at will and driving hard to the basket despite the hard-nosed defense of Long and Alex Nuyles. At one point, the Chinese seemed poised for a blowout win.

But the Filipinos would have none of it. Showing tremendous spirit, they patiently chipped away at the lead in the third quarter behind the playmaking abilities of Long and Alvarez, who won over the crowd with their derring-do penetrations and unselfish kick-outs, to the approving eyes of legendary coach Norman Black and sports patron-businessman Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP), who cheered from courtside.

Things nearly came to a head in the fourth quarter as 6'8' GCC center Yao Peng, apparently frustrated over the Filipino onslaught, started hacking away at anyone who came his way and in one play even wrestled the smaller Austria to the ground.

Surprisingly, the mostly Hong Kong crowd rooted for the Philippines, joining pockets of Filipino fans in chanting 'defense' and rallying behind the Blue Birds against their Mainland compatriots -- perhaps proof that in the game of basketball, a fighting heart can erase all boundaries.

So-called the 'Big Birds' in playful reference to the two schools' monickers in the UAAP -- the Blue Eagles and the Soaring Falcons -- the Filipinos have virtually crashed into the semifinal round and will next face China's Xin Cheng Holdings basketball team to determine its group seeding.

PHL 78 - Alvarez 21, Long 18, Salva 11, Austria 8, Camson 6, Nuyles 4, Colina 3, Dela Cruz 3, Sumalinog 2, Erram 2, Golla 0

GCC 73 - Shang 38, Jiang K.Y. 9, Wang L.M. 5, Li J. 5, Li Y. 5, Hu B. 5, Tang H.J. 4, Zhang Z. 2

- Ryan Asis Maniago



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


Austin Swift is the new Ginasio guard - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Facing the Richard Oruche (191-G-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Ill.-Springfield) injury last Saturday, in the game against Benfica, Casino Figueira Ginasio contracted Austin Swift (196-G-89, college: Cal Poly Pomona), from the Croatian team Vrijednosnice OS Darda.


Austin Swift is 23 years old, has 196 cm, and played in Montana and Cal Poly Pomona, before going to Croatia to have his first pro contract. In Vrijednosnice OS Darda he played 7 games, averaging 28.9 minutes, 12 points and 1.9 assists.


Meanwhile, Richard Oruche went for surgery in Coimbra, being expected back in Figueira da Foz in the next days. The team announced that he will be out of play until the end of this season.


Source: Planeta Basket



Lugano Basket turned in an impressive display in Switzerland - by Eurobasket News
Lugano Basket-Lisboa e Benfica 74:52

Lugano Basket turned in an impressive display to easily see off Lisboa e Benfica in Switzerland. The Swiss side celebrated 74:52 win to keep the chances alive for Sweet 16. Lugano must win at Lukoil in Sofia, Bulgaria, and hope that Tartu beat the Portuguese team in Estonia.
Stockalper opened the game from the perimeter and Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: San Diego St.) made a free throw for 11:6. The hosts started to increase the lead and Dusan Mladjan (199-G-86, agency: Interperformances) closed the period at 20:13. There was no let up in the second period as the hosts produced 21-11 in the frame. Dusan Mladjan nailed three for 36:16 midway through the quarter and Minhava was the last to post in the half for 41:24. Lugano Basket continued to pile on the points during the third quarter as Mohammed Abukar scored for 52:31. Dusan Mladjan later made a jump shot and then closed the quarter from the free throw line at 61:37. Lisboa e Benfica played better in the last frame but it was little more than stat-sheet filling for the well-beaten visitors. Mascarenhas reduced to 70:43 and Reed nailed three for 74:52 at the end of the game.
Mohammed Abukar stepped up with 18 points for the winners and Dusan Mladjan netted 15. Edwin Draughan (196-G/F-82, college: Yale) and Byron Sanders (207-C-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) followed them with 9 points apiece in the winning effort. Elvis Evora (205-C-78, agency: Global Sports Plaza) scored 14 in defeat and Antonio Tavares (183-G-75) netted 8.

Lugano Basket: Mohammed Abukar 18, Dusan Mladjan 15, Edwin Draughan 9, Byron Sanders 9
Lisboa e Benfica: Elvis Evora 14, Antonio Tavares 8

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


Puerto Rico seeks Rick Pitino's help to reach Olympics - by Eurobasket News
The president of the Puerto Rican Basketball Federation says the national team is in 'very advanced talks' with Louisville's Rick Pitino about coaching the club in pre-Olympic qualifying next summer.

Federation president Carlos J. Beltran says Tuesday the team is hoping Pitino will be its coach during the pre-Olympic qualifying tournament in Argentina in August.

Beltran says the process has not been completed but 'we are very close. There are just a few details we are completing.'

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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


Antwerp gain needed win over Steaua-Turabo - by Eurobasket News
Antwerp - Steaua-Turabo 78:65

Antwerp recorded the third win in EuroChallenge. This one came as the most valuable as Antwerp secured their birth in Last 16 round of the tournament. Steaua-Turabo entered the game having a 5-point buffer after the home game. But the Giants easily overcame the cushion and registered the necessary victory. So now the Romanian powerhouse have no chance of reaching the second position in the ladder.
The teams traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. Strickland capped the frame with a jumper to level things up at 20. Antwerp went on a 12:2 rally early in the second term to spur in front. Bryan Hopkins (183-G-83, college: SMU) then converted a four-point play to ensure a 12-point lead for the Giants. Antwerp secured a 44:32 halftime lead. Courtney Fortson (180-G-88, college: Arkansas) dropped a pair of three-pointers midway through the third term to keep Steaua-Turabo hopeful. But the hosts stayed persistent as they ensured a 61:51 lead with one quarter remaining. Courtney Fortson kept on fighting for the visitors as he dragged Steaua-Turabo within 8 points early in the final term. Antwerp answered with 8 points in a row and never looked back en route to the victory. Bryan Hopkins delivered 24 points for Antwerp. Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Canisius) contributed 18 points in the victory. Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Alabama) answered with game-high 27 points for Steaua-Turabo. Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Courtney Fortson had 12 points in defeat.

Antwerp: Bryan Hopkins 24, Darnell Wilson 18, Graham Brown (205-C-84, college: Michigan) 12
Steaua-Turabo: Virgil Stanescu 27, Hristo Nikolov 12, Courtney Fortson 12


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


Spartak loaned Paven Antipov to Nizhny Novgorod - by Emiliano
Spartak St.Petersburg announced on the official website the loan of Pavel Antipov (203-F-91) to BC Nizhny Novgorod. The young Russian played did not have a lot of space this season with the main team, so Spartak St.Petersburg decided to send him on loan to have minutes in PBL.
Antipov has played some games with Spartak St.Petersburg B team averaging 15ppg.
The forward born in 1991 has played last summer European Championships U20 in Croatia with the national team averaging 6.6ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 56.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 66.7% in 9 games.
Last year with Spartak St.Petersburg Antipov appeared in12 games averaging 1ppg.



Lokomotiv silence Dynamo in Moscow - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo Moscow - Lokomotiv Kuban 67:78

Lokomotiv Kuban sealed the EuroChallenge Last 16 birth. They overcame Dynamo in Moscow for the fourth win in Group F. Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) stepped up with 17 points and 10 rebounds to pace the effort.
Nikita Shabalkin (204-F-86) opened the game with a three-pointer but Dynamo did not capitalize. Chalmers and Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) gave Lokomotiv a 20:15 lead late in the period. Grigoryev and Alando Tucker (198-F-84, college: Wisconsin) stretched the gap to 8 points midway through the second frame. Chalmers, Alando Tucker and Jeremiah Massey kept Lokomotiv at safe distance as the visitors earned a 40:33 advantage at halftime. Zavoruev and Eugeny Voronov (192-G-86) drained back-to-back triples midway through the third term as Dynamo cut the deficit at just three points. Lokomotiv reacted with a 5:0 run of their own to restore some breathing space. The visitors rallied to a 56:49 advantage with one quarter to go. Jeretin, Alando Tucker and Michael Wilkinson ensured a 64:53 lead for Lokomotiv early in the final term and they never looked back en route to the victory. Jeremiah Massey provided 15 points for Lokomotiv. Alando Tucker delivered 13 points in the victory. Nikita Shabalkin replied with 21 points for Dynamo. Eugeny Voronov had 19 points in the losing effort.

Dynamo Moscow: Nikita Shabalkin 21, Eugeny Voronov 19
Lokomotiv Kuban: Michael Wilkinson 17+10 boards, Jeremiah Massey 15, Alando Tucker 13


Marko Popovic sustains broken arm - by Eurobasket News
Experienced Croatian International Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) is facing months on the sidelines after breaking his arm. Popovic suffered injury in the 12th minute of the match between his Unics Kazan and Triumph. Popovic will undergo further examination to see what is the realistic timeline for his comeback. It remains to be seen if Unics will look to sign a short term replacement for one of its very important players. So far, Popovic is the leading scorer for Unics in Russian league where he averages 15.6 points. In Baltic league he is overall leading scorer with 20.8 points per match.
Marko Popovic started his career at Zadar. With them he lifted 2 Croatian Cups in 2000 and 2003. In 2003/04 he spent a year with Pamesa Valencia in ACB League, before returning to Croatia and signing with Cibona. With the team from Zagreb, Popovic win the title in 2004. Following season Popovic went to Turkey where he helped Efes lift the Turkish Cup in 2006. After episode in Turkey, Popovic moved to Lithuania signing for Zalgiris Kaunas. With Zalgiris Popovic won Lithuanian title in 2007 as well as 2 Lithuanian Cups in 2007 and 2008. He was also Baltic Champion in 2008. At the start of 2008-2009 season, Popovic moved to Unics where he helped the team win Russian Cup. In 13 Eurocup games Popovic posted averages of 11.5 points and 2.6 assists per game. In Russian League, Popovic averaged 11.6 points and 2.6 assists in 25 League games.

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


Zalgiris replaces Petrovic with Grigas - by Eurobasket News
On the eve of a crucial Turkish Airlines Euroleague game, Zalgiris Kaunas announced Tuesday that former head coach Rimantas Grigas is replacing Aco Petrovic as head coach effective immediately. Grigas and assistant Oliver Kostic will run the teams Tuesday practice and be on the sideline for Wednesday's Group A contest against Caja Laboral in which Zalgiris can advance to the Top 16 with a win. Grigas, 48, previously led Zalgiris for a season-and-a-half. He took over in December 2006 and resigned shortly before the start of the 2007-08 season. He led the team to back-to-back Lithuanian titles, the 2008 Lithuanian Cup and the 2008 Baltic League crown. After leaving Zalgiris, Grigas coached Ukrainian side Budivelnik fro two seasons.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Partizan Belgrade attacked in Zadar - by Eurobasket News
A bus carrying Partizan Belgrade basketball players has been attacked with stones in Croatia.

The incident happened on Sunday night, in the wake of the NLB league match in the Croatian town of Zadar.

The bus was on the way to the local airport.

Sporting Director Dragan Todoric confirmed that coach Vlada Jovanovic was injured.

'When we left the arena the bus was hit with two stones. One broke the glass and hit Vlada Jovanovic in the face. Luckily it only grazed him, so his face is a little cut up and swollen,' Todoric told B92.

Jovanovic will coach the team in the Euroleague game against Prokom.

Courtesy of www.b92.net/eng

Maccabi Electra close to get Milan Macvan - by Eurobasket News
According to Israeli media, Milan Macvan (205-F-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) will become a new player of Maccabi Electra in the next day or two. At the same time, Maccabi will most probably release Richard Hendrix (203-F-86, college: Alabama).
Milan Macvan already agreed on terms with the Israeli powerhouse, who now has to finalize this deal with Hemofarm. According to some sources, the Serbian squad asks 600.000 euros for Macvan's buyout. Milan Macvan was also targeted by Spanish champion Caja Laboral.

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


Zlatorog and Mijajlovic part ways - by Zeljko Zule
Telemach League leading team Zlatorog parted ways with Sasa Mijajlovic (211-C-80, college: Hutchinson CC). The Serbian landed in the team from Lasko in the summer and was averaging 7.3 points (2P 53%, FT 62%), 5.0 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.4 steals and 0.6 blocks in 20.3 minutes in his 8 Championship games played so far. Mijajlovic was named a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week 8.

.



Krka wins the last game of Round 5 and advanced to Top 16 - by Eurobasket News
KK Zagreb-Krka 75:78

Krka continues their debut surprising year and EuroChallenge and already advance to Top 16 with 1 game remaining. The Slovenian team overcame KK Zagreb 78:75 for 4-1 record.
The hosts started the game with 4-0 run and Alex Renfroe (190-G-86, college: Belmont) scored for 9:7. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) brought 13:9, while Damir Mulaomerovic (195-G-74, agency: FCM) closed the period with a three for 21:17. Goran Ikonic (196-G-80), Krivec and Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) scored for 25:23 in the start of the second period, while Babic closed the 11-0 run for his team as Zagreb took 34:27 halftime advantage. Djordjevic's team responded with 8-0 run as he closed the half at 34:34. Luka Zoric made two free throws in the beginning of the third quarter and then the squads exchanged the leads several times. Luka Zoric was also the last to score in the third frame for 52:50 advantage as Zagreb won the third quarter 18-16. Trailing 56:62, Krka needed a 9-0 run for 65:62 lead with 4.30 in the game. Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Purdue) scored two for 74:68 and Petrov gave his side 78:72. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) nailed three at the very end but it was not enough for the total win.
Luka Zoric top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Damir Mulaomerovic posted 17. Krunoslav Simon netted 14, while Alex Renfroe added 10. Goran Ikonic finished the night with 23 points in the losing effort as the team from Croatia remains winless. Christopher Booker and Dragisa Drobnjak followed him with 11 points each in defeat.

KK Zagreb: Luka Zoric 22, Damir Mulaomerovic 17, Krunoslav Simon 14, Alex Renfroe 10
Krka: Goran Ikonic 23, Christopher Booker 11, Dragisa Drobnjak 11


Sasha Vujacic traded to NJ Nets - by Zeljko Zule
The New Jersey Nets have traded Terrence Williams to the Houston Rockets in a three-way deal that will land them Los Angeles Lakers guard Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) and a pair of first-round draft picks, sources confirmed to ESPN.com. The deal cannot be finalized until Dec. 15, according to NBA rules that prohibit offseason signees from being traded and Smith fits that bill. Vujacic is averaging just 1.5 points, 0.4 rebounds and 0.8 assists this season.
'I don't know anything,' Vujacic said when asked about the trade after the game, speaking to L.A.-based reporters in the hallway after trying to leave the locker room before the media crush came in. '[Lakers spokesman] John Black just told me there's a trade rumor that I'm involved in and I actually don't have any [cell phone] service here at the arena so I haven't talked to anybody.
'We'll see. I don't know what to say right now at the moment, it's just a rumor, so if it happens we can talk later on.'
Vujacic was once a valuable reserve for the Lakers whose playing time has been slashed this season.
'It's terrible. I'm 26-years old. I played a few years [consistently] and the last couple years, playing on and off, it was just killing me,' he said.


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


Bang expected to return soon to Knights lineup - by Jerry Lee
Bang Sung-Yoon (197-F/G-82) is expected to join team practice next week and will, in all likelihood, be in game shape by the following week, said a Knights official.

Bang is expected to make his return around Dec. 25. When Bang does return to the lineup, it will be his first KBL game since a March 7 game against the ET Land Elephants. In the past 10 months, Bang had to deal with lingering ankle injury and rehabilitation. He was initially tabbed to make his return at the start of this season but his comeback was delayed twice more, once until after the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games break and again recently.

The 6-foot-5 forward boasts a smooth stroke and a wide range but is considered injury-prone. Bang had to deal with an assortment of injuries throughout his career, including his shoulder, ribs, ankle, fingers and knee. This time, its his right ankle thats been hampering his return to the lineup. Although his ankle is not completely healed, Bang has decided to make his return rather than wait it out and face the possibility of missing the entire season.

Having played for two different teams in the NBA Development League (D-League) with the Anaheim Arsenal and the Roanoke Dazzle, Bang is considered one of the most accomplished shooters in the KBL. After three years at Yonsei University, Bang decided to forgo his senior year and test his skills in the D-League in hopes of making it in the NBA. Drafted by the Dazzle in the fourth round in 2004, Bang led the D-League in 3-pointers with 38 in 41 games during the 2004-05 season.

Bang was drafted by the KTF Magic Wings in the 2005 Amateur Draft and reached a deal. Under KBL rules, a drafted player must reach a contract with his team or he becomes ineligible to play in the KBL for five seasons. He briefly played for the Anaheim Arsenal in 2008-09 season.

The Knights have several All-Star caliber players like Joo Hee-jung, Kim Min-soo, Kim Hyo-beom and Terrence Leather in their lineup but without a solid center, they need another shooter in the lineup. With Bang returning to the lineup, the scoring load on other Knights players like guard Kim Hyo-beom will lighten.

To be honest, its been tough, said Kim before a game against the Dongbu Promy on Dec. 12. When we go up against a team with size like Dongbu, its especially tough. We need to connect on our shots from various areas of the court but that has not been happening of late.

Kim ended up hitting six 3-pointers and scoring 35 points but that wasnt enough as the Knights lost the game to the Promy, 93-88. With the addition of Bang to the lineup, the Knights can have two shooters who can offset the height disadvantage the Knights have in their front court.

Once tabbed as one of the favorites to win the championship this season, the Knights are currently tied for fifth with a 9-9 record. With Bang expected to return to the lineup in the near future, the Knights are hoping for a turnaround to what has been a disappointing start to the season.




Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Dongbu Promy 15-5 
 2. Elephants 15-5 
 3. Sonic Boom KT 13-6 
 4. Samsung Th. 13-7 
 5. SK Knights 10-9 
 6. LG Sakers 9-11 
 7. KCC Egis 7-13 
 8. Daegu Orions 7-13 
 9. Anyang KGC 6-13 
 10. Mobis Phoebus 3-16 


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


Standings - BasketEttan
Basketettan Standings
North
 1. Eagles 10-0 
 2. Taby 10-1 
 3. Haga Haninge 9-2 
 4. Akropol 8-3 
 5. Lulea Steel 6-5 
 6. Blackeberg 5-5 
 7. Orongo 4-8 
 8. Talje 3-7 
 9. Lidingo 3-8 
 10. Uppsala KFUM 3-8 
 11. BG Lulea 2-9 
 12. Hallsta 2-9 
South
 1. Srbija 9-2 
 2. Hoganas 8-3 
 3. Nassjo 7-2 
 4. Helsingborg 6-3 
 5. Solna Branten 4-5 
 6. Sanda 4-6 
 7. Fryshuset 3-5 
 8. Malbas 3-5 
 9. Norrkoping BK 3-6 
 10. Brahe Basket 3-7 
 11. Kvarnby 2-7 
 12. Eos 2-8 


Norrkoping Dolphins have joined a group of clubs on top of Group D - by Eurobasket News
Norrkoping Dolphins-Barak Netanya 70:64

Norrkoping Dolphins have joined a group of clubs on top of Group D EuroChallenge following a 70:64 home win over Barak Netanya. The latter as well as the Swedish side plus Liege all have 3-2 records and will find out two winners to go to Sweet 16 next week.
Things had started so brightly for the hosts that scored the first five points in their game. Barak Netanya however needed their time and won the end of the quarter for 25:23 lead. Gur made two free throws for 27:23 and Younger added twp for 29:25 in the beginning of the second period. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79, college: N.Arizona) meanwhile brought 6 points in a row for the home side to taste 31:29 lead with them. Adrian Banks (191-G-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) on the other side nailed three to close the quarter at 36:33. After the break it was a totally different story although it did take the hosts some time to get going. At first Elton Brown (206-F/C-83, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Virginia) brought 45:35 on the board, while Joakim Kjellbom closed a 5-0 run at 45:40. Moreover Andrew Mitchell (181-G-79, college: Kent St.) was the last to score in the frame for 49:48 after 30 minutes. The Swedish representative erupted with 22-15 in the last frame to seal the victory. They also tightened up defensively holding Barak Netanya to just two points in the last three minutes. Adrian Banks made the jump shot in the end of the game for the final result.
Joakim Kjellbom was unstoppable with 27 points and 10 rebounds for the third win. Andrew Mitchell notched 16 and Tomas Gaidamavicius (191-G-82) posted 8. Adrian Banks ended up with 20 points in the losing case and Elton Brown collected 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Norrkoping Dolphins: Joakim Kjellbom 27+10 rebs, Andrew Mitchell 16, Tomas Gaidamavicius 8
Barak Netanya: Adrian Banks 20, Elton Brown 19+10 rebs

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


Angley number one in Switzerland for round 13 - by Eurobasket News
American guard Brody Angley (180-G-86, agency: JEMsports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Lugano Tigers, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 24-year old player was the main contributor (6 points, six rebounds and eleven assists) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Zurich Wildcats (#10, 1-12) with 29-point margin 79-50. It allowed Lugano Tigers to consolidate first place in the Swiss LNA. Lugano Tigers has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 12-1. Angley turned to be Lugano Tigers' top player in his first season with the team. Brody Angley has solid league stats. He is in league's top in assists (9th best: 4.2apg) and averages impressive 2.8spg.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American Steve Smith (200-F-81) of league's second-best Fribourg. Smith had a very good evening with 23 points and 9 rebounds. Of course he lead Fribourg to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked BBC Nyon (#9, 2-11) 113-78. Fribourg's second position in the standings has not changed. His team's 10-3 record is not bad at all. Smith is a newcomer at Fribourg, but is already the team's top player. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.9ppg (#7). He also registered 8.6 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Fribourg's star - international center Oliver Vogt (209-C-80). Vogt scored 14 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was another key player of Fribourg, helping his team with a 113-78 easy win against the lower-ranked BBC Nyon (#9, 2-11). Fribourg needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 10 victories and 3 lost games. Vogt has a very solid season. In 13 games in Switzerland he scored 14.4ppg. He also has 7.3rpg, 1.1bpg and FGP: 59.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Arizona Reid (196-F-86) of Monthey - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Westher Molteni (200-F/G-87) of Monthey - 19 points and 9 rebounds
6. Dave Esterkamp (200-F-78) of Fribourg - 18 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists
7. John Ofoegbu (206-C-82) of SAM Massagno - 17 points and 10 rebounds
8. Cruz Daniels (211-C-85) of BBC Nyon - 17 points and 6 rebounds
9. Tony Brown (193-G-79) of Starwings - 25 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Tony Gugino (207-C-86) of Boncourt - 18 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Lugano Basket turned in an impressive display in Switzerland - by Eurobasket News
Lugano Basket-Lisboa e Benfica 74:52

Lugano Basket turned in an impressive display to easily see off Lisboa e Benfica in Switzerland. The Swiss side celebrated 74:52 win to keep the chances alive for Sweet 16. Lugano must win at Lukoil in Sofia, Bulgaria, and hope that Tartu beat the Portuguese team in Estonia.
Stockalper opened the game from the perimeter and Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: San Diego St.) made a free throw for 11:6. The hosts started to increase the lead and Dusan Mladjan (199-G-86, agency: Interperformances) closed the period at 20:13. There was no let up in the second period as the hosts produced 21-11 in the frame. Dusan Mladjan nailed three for 36:16 midway through the quarter and Minhava was the last to post in the half for 41:24. Lugano Basket continued to pile on the points during the third quarter as Mohammed Abukar scored for 52:31. Dusan Mladjan later made a jump shot and then closed the quarter from the free throw line at 61:37. Lisboa e Benfica played better in the last frame but it was little more than stat-sheet filling for the well-beaten visitors. Mascarenhas reduced to 70:43 and Reed nailed three for 74:52 at the end of the game.
Mohammed Abukar stepped up with 18 points for the winners and Dusan Mladjan netted 15. Edwin Draughan (196-G/F-82, college: Yale) and Byron Sanders (207-C-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) followed them with 9 points apiece in the winning effort. Elvis Evora (205-C-78, agency: Global Sports Plaza) scored 14 in defeat and Antonio Tavares (183-G-75) netted 8.

Lugano Basket: Mohammed Abukar 18, Dusan Mladjan 15, Edwin Draughan 9, Byron Sanders 9
Lisboa e Benfica: Elvis Evora 14, Antonio Tavares 8

Stats Leaders LNA
Points Per Game
 Shorown GLOVER
  Boncourt
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 23.2
 1. Glover, Boncourt23.2 
 2. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.23.1 
 3. Abukar, Lugano T.21.0 
 4. Brown, Starwings20.8 
 5. Popovich, SAV V.20.5 
 6. Polyblank, Geneve L.20.1 
 7. Smith, Fribourg19.9 
 8. Martin, BBC Nyon18.6 
 9. Yates, Starwings18.6 
 10. Byron, BBC Nyon18.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 14
 1. Daniels, BBC Nyon14.0 
 2. Yates, Starwings10.0 
 3. Ofoegbu, SAM M.9.5 
 4. Thompson, Starw.9.4 
 5. Gugino, Boncourt9.4 
 6. Smith, Fribourg8.6 
 7. Sloan, Geneve Lions8.2 
 8. Finn, Lugano Tigers8.1 
 9. Mihajlovic, SAV V.7.8 
 10. Johnson, SAM M.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo7.5 
 2. Glover, Boncourt6.4 
 3. Draughan, Lugano T.4.9 
 4. Brown, Starwings4.5 
 5. Buscaglia, Fribourg4.5 
 6. Petkovic, Fribourg4.4 
 7. Esterkamp, Fribo.4.3 
 8. Ross, Geneve Lions4.2 
 9. Angley, Lugano T.4.2 
 10. Hollins, Starwings4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Shorown GLOVER
  Boncourt
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Glover, Boncourt4.8 
 2. Gibson, SAV Vacallo3.6 
 3. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.2.8 
 4. Angley, Lugano T.2.8 
 5. Gugino, Boncourt2.8 
 6. Draughan, Lugano T.2.7 
 7. Louissaint, Month.2.2 
 8. Sharper, Monthey2.2 
 9. Efevberha, Lugano T.2.1 
 10. Dacevic, SAV V.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Daniels, BBC Nyon3.4 
 2. Toure, Geneve Lions2.2 
 3. Sloan, Geneve Lions1.5 
 4. Lukic, Zurich W.1.5 
 5. Gugino, Boncourt1.4 
 6. Moris, Monthey1.3 
 7. Sanders, Lugano T.1.3 
 8. Thompson, Starw.1.3 
 9. Vogt, Fribourg1.1 
 10. Aw, Monthey1.0 


*****************************************************
  THAILAND   


Ateneo-Adamson Philippines wallops Thailand National Team, 83-63 - by Ryan Asis Maniago
The Philippines, represented here by collegiate champions Ateneo de Manila University and reinforced by four players from rival Adamson University, overwhelmed the Thailand National Team, 83-63, at the 18th 3D-Gold Super Kung Sheung Cup held at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium in Hong Kong.

King Eagle heir apparent Kirk Long and Adamson Falcons stalwart Julius Colina, who just a week earlier were at each other's throats at the 2010 PCCL Championship in Manila, joined forces in dismantling the Thai defense with their inside-outside game and well-oiled plays. The duo topscored for the Philippine side with 20 points apiece, with Bacon Austria of Ateneo providing able back-up with 10 points.

After a slow start that saw the Thais erecting a short-lived, four-point lead in the first quarter, 19-15, the Filipinos tightened the screws on defense to build a 36-26 lead at the half.

Long then teamed up with Adamson arch-rival Alex Nuyles in slamming the gas pedal at the start of the third canto, as they outran, outgunned and outfoxed their opponents en route to a 61-45 cushion entering the fourth quarter. Nuyles, who struggled in the first half, wowed the predominantly Hong Kong crowd with a breakaway slam off a Kirk Long feed.

Thai pivotman Thonchai Thippayaprapai and gutsy forward Darongpan Apiromvilaichai were the lone bright spots for Thailand, scoring 14 and 11 points, respectively.

A sizeable Filipino contingent among the audience expressed optimism at the Philippines' chances here, especially after a disappointing finish by the CESAFI All-Stars in the 2008 edition, which saw a collegiate selection from Cebu bannered by 6'10 behemoth Junmar Fajardo, getting whipped by host Hong Kong, 100-61, in the finals.

The coaching staff, however, are wary of the size advantage of the other teams, particularly the two club teams from China and the Southern California Fukienese Association, bolstered by athletic African-Americans and youtube sensation David Kalb, renowned for beating Lebron James in a game of H-O-R-S-E.

The Ateneo Blue Eagles, three-peat UAAP Champions, earned the right to represent the Philippines in the tournament by beating the Adamson Soaring Falcons at the recently concluded PCCL Champsionship in Manila. Interestingly, Adamson loaned four cagers to bolster Ateneo's roster here after key players from the Ateneo side had begged off for academic reasons.

The Philippines next takes on the GCC Group and Xin Cheng Holdings basketball teams of China, hoping to land in the top two in their group to break into the semifinal round.

PHL 83 - Long 20, Colina 20, Austria 10, Alvarez 8, Dela Cruz 6, Sumalinog 6, Nuyles 4, Erram 4, Salva 3, Camson 2, Golla 0, Tiongson 0

THA 63 - Thongchai 14, Darunpong 11, Darongpan 10, Kittipot 9, Thansith 4, Paramet 4, Kittisak 4, Suttiket 3, Sakgarin 2, Pongsago 2

Article by Ryan Asis Maniago




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


Pinar Karsiyaka advanced to Sweet 16 of the EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
Pinar Karsiyaka-ETHA Encomi 85:67

Pinar Karsiyaka advanced to Sweet 16 of the EuroChallenge as the squad celebrated another victory. The Turkish side grabbed 4-1 record on top of Group G after convincing 85:67 win over Etha.
The visitors started sloppily with some turnovers inside the first couple of minutes and a score by Eldridge handed the hosts the lead at 23:16 in the end of the period. Jovo Stanojevic (208-C-77, agency: Beo Basket) brought 29:21 and another five points from the player showed 35:26. Erdogan nailed three to close the half at 49:39 as the hosts won the period 26-23. In the third quarter David Holston (170-G-86, college: Chicago St.) made it 58:46 and Jovo Stanojevic closed the frame at 64:52. Pinar Karsiyaka were much improved in the fourth period and having looked like they might get blown out early, they rallied and stepped things up much to the frustration. With 21-15 they finished the last quarter to seal the fourth win in the group.
David Holston top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Jovo Stanojevic added 19. Smith finished the night with 11 points and Furkan Aldemir (205-F-91) had 8 points and 10 rebounds. Anthony King (206-F/C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami (FL)) erupted with 27 points in the losing effort as his team has 2-3 record as well as Nicosia side Apoel and BC Zadar. Ken Tutt (185-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: ORU) posted 12 and Valdas Dabkus (204-F-84) delivered 11.

Pinar Karsiyaka: David Holston 21, Jovo Stanojevic 19, Smith 11, Furkan Aldemir 8+10 rebs
ETHA Encomi: Anthony King 27, Ken Tutt 12, Valdas Dabkus 11

After losing their first four games in Group D, Turk Telekom surprised Liege in Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Belgacom Liege-Turk Telekom 79:83

After losing their first four games in Group D, Turk Telekom surprised Liege in Belgium in Round 5 of EuroChallenge. The Turkish side grabbed 1-4 record due to 83:79 win as they had massive 28-11 third period.
The result has left Barak Netanya, Norrkoping Dolphins and Liege with 3-2 records going into the last week of Regular Season games. While it may have left the home fans with a sour taste in their mouth nothing could take away from the competitiveness of the match. Michael Jenkins (191-G-86, college: Winthrop) and Griffin gave Belgacom Liege 7:2 lead and Stipanovic scored for 11:5.Sani Becirovic (195-G-81) (195-G-81) made two free throws for 21:16 and Matela nailed three for 26:19. Guy Muya (190-G-83, agency: LBM Management) increase to 33:23, while Papac kept the difference at 41:31 at the end of the half. The third quarter was a night mare for the hosts that were swept by the opponents. Turk Telekom erupted with 28-11 for 59:52 at the end of thirty minutes. Simpson scored for 74:66 and Sani Becirovic brought 80:73. He also made the last free throws for his team that won the initial game.
Sani Becirovic paced all the winners with 24 points and Ceyhun Altay (196-G/F-86, agency: Court Side) netted 17. Gregory Stiemsma (211-C-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Wisconsin) collected 11 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Mehmet Yagmur (188-G-87) added 10. Xavier Collette (184-G-85, agency: LBM Management) finished the night with 13 points, while Michael Jenkins 1and Pierre-Antoine Gillet (201-F-91) posted 11 each in defeat.

Belgacom Liege: Xavier Collette 13, Michael Jenkins 11, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 11, Guy Muya 10
Turk Telekom: Sani Becirovic 24, Ceyhun Altay 17, Gregory Stiemsma 11+11 rebs, Mehmet Yagmur 10

Transfer news in TB2L - by Baha Kurtulus
One of the most pretentious team in TB2L, Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler has agreed with Umit Turkoglu (211-C-81, agency: 1x1 Sports) who has played shorter times at Turk Telekom Ankara. Umit Turkoglu has played at Banvit, Mersin BSB, Antalya BSB and Erdemir teams before .
Besides this, Barkin Cinar (193-G-83) from Edirne Olin has signed with Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler till the end of season.
After the transfers of Opitmum TED, the other team of Ankara, Hacettepe University has had a contract with Adnan Onder Kulcebas (205-F-81, agency: 1x1 Sports) for one and a half year.
Both Ankara teams strengthened their roster.

Telekom back to familiar faces - by Sinan Can
TURK Telekom is making a new movement as capital city team agreed in terms with two ex-players, Khalid El-Amin (178-G-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: Connecticut) and Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) . El Amin is a very well known name for Turkish basketball fans. American point guard was with Trk Telekom at 2007-08 season and also at 2008-09 season by march. Kenan Bajramovic played at Ankara club at 2008-09 also as that year he was selected to Eurobasket.com's Turkish League All-Bosmans Team. Both players are expected to be in Ankara this weekend.

Gerald Fitch inks with Aliaga Petkim - by Emiliano
Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) is a newcomer in Aliaga Petkim. The terrific scorer started the season in Spain with Alta Gestion Fuenlabrada but parted ways few months ago.
Fitch was in Spain with Fuenlabrad even last season averaging Score-2 (17.9ppg), 5.0rpg, 2.7apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 53.7%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 75.3% in 26 games.
Fitch has already experiences in Turkey with Kepez Bld Antalya with whom he recorded averages of 28.2ppg), 6.9rpg, Assists-5 (5.0apg), Steals-4 (2.1spg), FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 48.4%, FT: 72.0% in the season 2008/09.
At the end of that season, Fitch was also named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Player of the Yea, Guard of the Year and Import Player of the Year.
Aliaga Petkim will lose Aubrey Coleman (193-G-87, college: Houston) who asked to leave for personal reasons.

TB2L Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Arthur JOHNSON
  Vestel
  (206-F/C-81)
  Avg: 22.3
 1. Johnson, Vestel22.3 
 2. Tekinalp, ITU22.0 
 3. Hall, Kepez Bld20.7 
 4. Gardener, Final G.19.9 
 5. Boswell, Basaksehir18.6 
 6. Boykin, Gaziantep17.7 
 7. Kan, TED Istanbul17.3 
 8. Wright, Orman Genc17.1 
 9. Dearman, Hacett.17.1 
 10. Gordon, Darussafaka15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jamil TERELL
  Adanaspor
  (200-F/C-80)
  Avg: 13.1
 1. Terell, Adanaspor13.1 
 2. Johnson, Vestel12.9 
 3. Gardener, Final G.10.8 
 4. Isik, Pertevniyal10.4 
 5. Wright, Orman Genc10.2 
 6. Toyloy, Istanbul.10.0 
 7. Boswell, Basaksehir9.3 
 8. Majok, FMV I.8.6 
 9. Kolaric, Genc Banvit8.6 
 10. Gordon, Darussafaka8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Can Ugur OGUT
  Turk Telekom
  (178-G-92)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Ogut, Genc Telekom5.9 
 2. Kan, TED Istanbul5.8 
 3. Kavut, Optimum TED5.8 
 4. Hall, Kepez Bld5.1 
 5. Topcu, Izmir B.B.5.0 
 6. Yikilmaz, Pertevniyal4.9 
 7. Bayrak, Usak4.8 
 8. Topcu, Gelisim4.7 
 9. Delicay, Gaziantep4.3 
 10. Ay, Final Genclik4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus HALL
  Kepez Bld
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 3
 1. Hall, Kepez Bld3.0 
 2. Yonder, Genc Banvit2.7 
 3. Korkmaz, Pertevni.2.3 
 4. Terzioglu, Gelisim2.2 
 5. Akcay, Genc T.2.2 
 6. Karabulut, Orman G.2.1 
 7. Ozdemir, Kepez Bld2.0 
 8. Orge, Gelisim2.0 
 9. Turkyilmaz, Genc B.2.0 
 10. Gardener, Final G.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Ater MAJOK
  FMV Isikspor
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Majok, FMV I.3.1 
 2. Morton, Usak2.7 
 3. Johnson, Vestel2.3 
 4. Toyloy, Istanbul.2.0 
 5. McGowan, Akhisar .1.8 
 6. Boswell, Basaksehir1.8 
 7. Smith, Usak1.7 
 8. Tekin, Pertevniyal1.3 
 9. Clarkson, TED I.1.3 
 10. Gardener, Final G.1.2 


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Central High Basketball teams off to Atlanta, Georgia - by David Edole
St. Croix Central High School boys and girls basketball teams are headed to Atlanta, Georgia to play in the 5th Annual Dekalb County Holiday Tournament December 17, 18, 20 & 21, 2010. The games will be played at Arabia Mountain HS in Lithonia, Georgia.
The Caribs have participated in the tournament for the past two seasons and had some success last season. Central finished in sixth place (1-2) and routed McNair HS, 57-34, for their only win.
The boys team is going through a transisition phase as three of their top players have transferred to Delaware and their leading three point shooter (Taaron Jones) has graduated.
However, the cupboard is completely bear as Kadeem Jones (94) returns to guide the fast pace attack. Jones, a 5-8 senior guard, traveled the world this past summer. He played with the Virgin Islands 18 and under national team and had a great game against USA in San Antonio, Texas.
He then went to Orlando Florida to play AAU ball with Zero Tolerance organization and finally he represented the Virgin Islands in Philippines in 3-on-3 play. Helping Jones will be a veteran and a host junior varsity players. The veteran Reno Motto should help on the boards. Razeem Huggins, Shamel Jones, Shamoi Moto Francis should add offensive punch.
On the girls side, Lanese Bough (5-foot-8) senior guard will lead the attack. Bough played with the V.I. senior womens national team this past summer and is ready to become a star. Kristin Edney, a 6-foot transfer from Manor, school will bring the size while Johvanna John, Jayda Edwards and Najie Hendrickson will add depth.
The Lady Caribs concluded the tourney with one win in three tries which was good for seventh place. After dropping the first two contests Central defeated North Cobb Christian, 37-24.

Friday December 17, 2010 @Clarkston HS
(G) Central (St. Croix, V.I.) vs. Clarkston 6:40pm
(B) Central (St. Croix, V.I.) vs. Clarkston 8:20pm

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  UBL   


Texas Wranglers vs Arkansas Warriors Preseason Game - by Ozzie Denson

The Texas Wranglers and the Arkansas Warriors will be having their first
preseason game this Saturday December 18th in Addison Texas. Both Teams will be
playing their new players to see what type of players they will have for the
upcoming season. The Wranglers are looking for a sell out for this game and
Arkansas always bring a high fast pace game. The UBL will have seven Teams this
year. So get ready and (come get some !!!)

Greenhill Sports Complex
4141 Spring Valley RD.
Addison, Texas

972-781-8120

www.ublhoops.com



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

  UNITED KINGDOM   


BBL Team Of The Week - by Paul Nilsen
Not for the first time this season, our weekly line-up is dominated by two teams and it is One Health Sharks Sheffield and Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders who provide a combined four players. In a week when the shooters and backcourt scorers really did excel, we have a three guard combo approach as we go back to being small and mobile as a unit for the first time in quite a while.

JR Blount (185-G-87, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Loyola (IL))Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)
It was a mixed weekend for the point guard who went down with his team on Merseyside against the Tigers but at least had this tempered by a great performance and win against UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders on Saturday night. Blount showed his solid all round game with 29 points including a hat-trick of triples while also dishing up 7 assists and grabbing 3 steals. This is the second time BBL rookie Blount has made the line-up this season.

Ryan Patton (181-G-78, college: Youngstown St.) (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
The classy Patton secures back to back appearances in our starting five and in the process joins the very short list of players who have racked up a fourth appearance of the season in the BBL Team Of The Week. Patton is on fire right now and claimed a sparkling double-double in the BBL Cup semi-final second leg against Cheshire Jets to ensure the Sharks will get the chance to defend their prized trophy. Patton scored a spectacular six triples against the Jets and completed an excellent double-double by adding 10 assists to his 24 point haul.

Chez Marks (191-G-80, college: Morehead St.) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)
Another player securing back to back appearances is Chez Marks who continues to spark the Raiders offensively. He poured in 29 points against Worcester Wolves to help his team take victory in a classic overtime shootout at the Pavilions as they bounced straight back from defeat at Leicester 24 hours earlier. He was red-hot with 9 of 10 shooting inside and also dished up five assists to show he has more to his game than just scoring.

Joseph Harris (196-F-87, college: Co.Carolina) (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)
The forward makes his second appearance in three weeks and that isnt surprising since Harris was the best performer of the weekend with an absolutely flawless 11 of 11 shooting inside helping him secure 29 points and a superb performance valuation of 36. As if that wasnt good enough, he also added 6 rebounds and 6 assists against the Raiders to complete a stellar display.

Paul Williams (208-F/C-83, college: St.Bonaventure) (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
Centre Williams makes the team for the first time this season which has perhaps not quite reflected the quality of his contribution for the Sharks since he arrived in the summer months. Team-mate Mike Tuck stole the limelight for the Sharks frontcourt earlier in the season but finally Williams is recognised for his efforts after registering an excellent double-double in the victory against the Jets. He scored 18 points but also pulled down an astonishing 19 rebound to ease the Sharks into their second BBL Cup Final in as many years.

BBL Team Of The Week

JR BlountJelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)
Ryan Patton (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
Chez Marks (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)
Joseph Harris (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)
Paul Williams (One Health Sharks Sheffield)

Off The Bench
Sterling Davis (Glasgow Rocks), Steve Dagostino (One Health Sharks Sheffield), Nate Reinking (Mersey Tigers), Justin Dobbins (Worcester Wolves), Jeremy Bell (Cheshire Jets), Sherrad Prezzie-Blue (Worthing Thunder)


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


Uniceub/BRB narrowly defeat Defensor - by Eurobasket News
Uniceub/BRB - Defensor 84:81

The Brazilian champions Uniceub/BRB started their Liga Americas campaign with victory. They narrowly outscored Defensor of Uruguay in Group B opener in Xalapa. Guilhereme Giovannoni knocked down 25 points to pace the effort.
Uniceub/BRB and Defensor looked well-matched in the opening stanza. The teams traded baskets and eventually the Brazilian side eke out a 21:20 lead. Defensor stayed close throughout the second term but could not succeed. Uniceub/BRB rallied to a 43:39 halftime advantage. Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81, agency: Interperformances) and Alex Garcia organized a 9:2 run in the third term as Uniceub/BRB opened a double-digit advantage. They maintained it to enter the fourth quarter up by 10 points 68:58. Defensor fought bravely as they were able to narrow the distance at just two points 78:80. Nezinho dos Santos committed what could be a decisive turnover in the dying seconds but Izaguirre missed a three-pointer and could not force overtime in this one.
Nezinho dos Santos tallied 16 points and 6 assists for Uniceub/BRB. Fabio Telminho Oliveira (195-F-79) and Lucas Tischer (208-C-83, agency: Interperformances) had 11 points each in the win. Clerence Matthews (201-F-83, college: Tennessee St.) replied with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Defensor. Brian Woodward (191-G-81, college: Rhode Island) provided 18 points in defeat

Uniceub/BRB: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) 25, Nezinho dos Santos 16, Fabio Telminho Oliveira 11, Lucas Tischer 11
Defensor: Clerence Matthews 21, Brian Woodward 18


Bohemios y Cordon joined the Top 10 - by Hector Lopez
Bohemios and Cordon joined the group of the 10 top teams to be playing the Uruguayan League second stage. Bohemios beat Montevido 100-92 while Cordon defeat hebraica 83-76 during the 30th round. Others teams already classified were: Bigua, Defensor Sporting, Malvin, Aguada, Hebraica, Trouville, Olimpia and Welcome. The team teams will play a round robin tournament with half of the points already earned. The results foe the six games played were:
Bohemios 100 - Johnny Rodriguez (197-F-83) 30 points 4 rebounds, De Andre Coleman (201-F-86, college: S.Alabama) 28 points 11 rebounds 2 blocks, Ronald Douglas (201-C-87, college: S.Alabama) 6 points6 rebounds 3 blocks
Montevideo 92 - Emanuel Willis (205-F/C-84, college: Houston Baptist) 41 points 15 rebounds 1 block
- - -
Cordon 83 - Marcel Bouzout (206-C-71) 19 points 5 rebounds 2 blocks, Christopher Hayes (206-F-87, college: Detroit Mercy) 16 points 6 rebounds, Austen Powers (203-F-87, college: Seattle) 7 points 4 rebounds 2 blocks 3 assists
Hebraica 76 - Carl Elliott (193-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) 21 points 4 rebounds 1 block 4 assists, Isadore Thornton (202-F-74, college: W.Kentucky) 18 points 9 rebounds, Grady Reynolds (198-F-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: St.John's) 0 points 8 rebounds 2 blocks
- - -
Aguada 95 - Alejandro Muro (187-G-74) 32 points 2 rebounds 3 assists, Benjamin Puckett (205-F-83, college: Clayton St.) 26 points 16 rebounds 1 block, Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 14 points 10 rebounds
Union Atletica 81 - Adrian Bertolini (191-G-78) 31 points, Jon Rogers (204-F/C-84, college: Valdosta St.) 13 points 9 rebounds, Erron Maxey (198-F-78, college: Providence) 11 points 6 rebounds
- - -
Bigua 81 - Emilio Taboada (191-F-82) 26 points 4 rebounds, Elgrace Wilborn (203-F-83, college: W.Kentucky) 17 points 13 rebounds
Trouville 76 - Justin Leith (201-F-81, college: Merrimack) 19 points 12 rebounds, Brad Kanis (218-C-84, college: Grand Canyon) 16 points 14 rebounds 2 blocks
- -
Malvin 104 - Fernando Martinez (170-G-79) 26 points 9 assists, Carl Edwards (196-F-81, college: Charleston) 25 points 3 rebounds 1 block, Mark Bortz (208-F/C-82, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Buffalo) 15 points 15 rebounds, Reque Newsome (204-C-81, college: S.Indiana) 14 points 11 rebounds
Sayago 86 - Terrence Shelman (198-F-78) 24 points 10 rebounds 2 blocks, Cedric McGowan (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) 17 points 8 rebounds 4 assists
- -
Olimpia 84 - Johwen Villegas (193-G-85, college: Florida Intern.) 20 points 10 rebounds 2 blocks, Greg Dilligard (203-F-85, agency: Warren Sports International) 13 points 9 rebounds 2 blocks
Welcome 81 - Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) 26 points 7 rebounds, Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) 15 points 7 rebounds.



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Women News

*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Gospic edge Lotos, leave last place in Euroleague Group B - by Eurobasket News
Gospic - Lotos Gdynia 98:83

Gospic finally delivered their first win in the Euroleague season. The Croatian champions defeated Lotos Gdynia at home court to improve at 1-7 record in Group B. The victory allowed Gospic catch up with Lotos in the ladder. Maurita Reid (173-G-85, college: Miami (FL)) tallied 25 points, 9 assists, 6 boards and 5 steals for the winners.
Michelle Maslowski (188-F/C-79, college: Drexel) triggered an 8:0 rally from the hosts as Gospic ensured a 12:4 lead midway through the first quarter. Gospic capped the period with nine points in a row taking a 29:16 lead. The Croatian side went on a scoring frenzy in the second term. The hosts exploded with 36 points to arrive at halftime up by 25 points 65:40. The teams traded baskets throughout the third period as Gospic maintained the advantage. Gospic entered the final stanza enjoying a comfortable 24-point cushion. The hosts did not loosen the grip in the fourth period and rallied to the initial win at the tournament. Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) had 24 points for Gospic. Michelle Maslowski contributed 13 points in the victory. Elina Babkina (172-G-89, agency: LBM Management) replied with 15 points for Lotos Gdynia. Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Texas) and Monica Wright (180-F-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia) finished with 13 points apiece in the loss.

Gospic: Maurita Reid 25, Marija Vrsaljko 24, Michelle Maslowski 13
Lotos Gdynia: Elina Babkina 15, Daria Mieloszynska 13, Monica Wright 13


Standings - Women
A1 Standings
 1. Biska Pula 7-0 
 2. Studenec O. 5-2 
 3. Croatia 2006 3-3 
 4. Zadar 3-4 
 5. Agram 3-4 
 6. Pozega 3-5 
 7. Split 1-7 
Play in international cups:
 1. Gospic - 
 2. Jolly - 
 3. Lupa Promot. - 
 4. Medvescak - 


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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Frisco Sika better Gorzow in Brno - by Eurobasket News
Frisco Sika - Gorzow 71:64 (OT)

Frisco Sika defeated Gorzow in the battle of the bottom of the Euroleague Group D. Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, college: Louisiana Tech) stepped up with 20 points and 11 boards to lead the hosts. Frisco Sika thus caught up with Gorzow in the ladder as both teams are now tied at 2-6 record.
Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) and Izabela Piekarska (196-C/F-85, college: UTEP) gave Gorzow an early 7:2 lead but Frisco Sika gradually recovered. Hanusova and Cheryl Ford secured a 12:11 lead for the hosts with ten minutes gone. Gorzow opened the second quarter with eight straight points. Agnieszka Skobel (180-F-89) and Kaczmarczyk enlarged the margin to 9 points midway through the second term. But Frisco Sika once again finished the quarter strongly cutting the deficit at just two points 25:27. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) tied the score at 27 early in the third term but Gorzow did not allow the Czech team to pull in charge. The Polish team stayed on top as they drove to a 44:39 lead at the third intermission. Frisco Sika grabbed the lead midway through the fourth quarter 51:48. Skerovic extended the lead to 5 points with under five minutes remaining. However Gorzow went on a 7:2 rally late in regulation to draw things level and force overtime. Hanusova and Cheryl Ford accounted for first four points in the extra term. Richards and Izabela Piekarska tried to keep Gorzow in this one but Cheryl Ford and Frida Eldebrink came up with timely baskets and Frisco Sika ran away for the victory at the end.
Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) notched 16 points for Frisco Sika. Frida Eldebrink added 10 points in the winning effort. Justyna Zurowska answered with 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for Gorzow. Agnieszka Skobel and Izabela Piekarska had 13 points apiece in the loss.

Frisco Sika: Cheryl Ford 20+11 boards, Louice Halvarsson 16, Frida Eldebrink 10
Gorzow: Justyna Zurowska 17, Agnieszka Skobel 13, Izabela Piekarska 13


Spartak MR breeze past USK Praha in Vidnoe - by Eurobasket News
Spartak MR - USK Praha 85:54

Spartak MR posted the fifth win in Euroleague season. They crushed USK Praha in Vidnoe to clear off in the second spot in Group C. USK Praha slipped at 4-4 record in the third place. Epiphanny Prince (175-G-88, college: Rutgers) scored 18 points to lead the defending champions.
The teams stayed close early in the game. The lead changed hands for several times before Epiphanny Prince, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) and Milovanovic organized a 7:2 run that put the hosts up by 6 points at the first break 23:17. Spartak MR kept control in the second term. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) converted a three-point play to open a double digit lead for Spartak MR late in the half 37:27. Korstine opened the second part of the clash with four points in a row to stretch the margin. The Russian powerhouse used an 8:0 run midway through the quarter to take a 57:32 lead at the interval. Spartak MR arrived at the final intermission up by 23 points 65:42. USK Praha had no answers in the final period. Spartak MR got a firm grip on the lead and easily rolled to the victory at the end. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota provided 15 points for Spartak MR. Irina Osipova (196-F-81) and Lauren Jackson added 14 points each in the victory. Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89) replied with 15 points for USK Praha. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) contributed 14 points and 9 rebounds for the visitors.

Spartak MR: Epiphanny Prince 18, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 15, Lauren Jackson 14, Irina Osipova 14
USK Praha: Katerina Elhotova 15, Delisha Milton-Jones 14


*****************************************************
  EL SALVADOR - Women  


UTEC wins Female League - by Jaime Arevalo
Defeating 2-0 in Final Series Survivor, Universidad Tecnologica claimed the 2010 Female League First Division title. After winning Game 1, 47-32 at the end of a low-scoring match, UTEC defeated again Survivor in Game 2, this time 69-61.
After ending the first quarter ahead by 5 points, UTEC completed another rally, ending ahead 29-20 the first half. Starting from that time, UTEC never looked back.
With 29 points, Lorena Simon was Game 2 top performer, and Jessica Bautista (83) added 13 points at the winning side. Veronica Sosa (90) led Survivor with 17 pts

*****************************************************
  ESTONIA - Women  


Standings - Women
Meistriliiga Standings
 1. Eclex Tallinn 7-0 
 2. Tartu Ulikooli 5-3 
 3. TLU/Volta 4-3 
 4. NikeWomen 2-5 
 5. Audentes 0-7 


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  EUROCUP - Women  


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ana DABOVIC
  Dynamo-GUVD
  (183-G/F-89)
  Avg: 22.8
 1. Dabovic, Dy.22.8 
 2. Sanni, Villeneuve22.5 
 3. Likhtarovich, Goriz.21.5 
 4. Petrakova, Cheva.20.8 
 5. Mosch, Dy.20.0 
 6. Willingham, Elitzu.19.3 
 7. Castro Marqu., Besik.19.3 
 8. Gaither, Dexia N.18.8 
 9. Carson, SEAT L.18.0 
 10. Dennett, Sint K.18.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Simona PODESVOVA
  MBK Ruzomb.
  (186-F-83)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Podesvova, MBK R.11.8 
 2. Stone, Partizan11.8 
 3. Willingham, Elitzu.10.8 
 4. Sanni, Villeneuve10.8 
 5. Thomas, Villeneuve10.7 
 6. Dennett, Sint K.10.5 
 7. Zarytska, Hatis Y.9.8 
 8. Whitehead, Craiova9.6 
 9. Kuzina, Dynamo M.9.5 
 10. Gaither, Dexia N.9.3 
Assists Per Game
 Tamara BAJIC
  Zeljeznicar
  (172-G-87)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Bajic, Zeljeznicar6.5 
 2. Brandao, Olivais6.0 
 3. Cherepanova, Cheva.5.8 
 4. Aubert, Nantes5.5 
 5. Comtesse, Saarl.5.3 
 6. Milanovich, Spart.5.3 
 7. Kalentzou, Athinaikos5.3 
 8. Tanqueray, Villeneuve5.0 
 9. Laczi, Szeged5.0 
 10. Moore, Chevakata5.0 
Steals Per Game
 Olga HATZINIKOLAOU
  Athinaikos
  (181-G-81)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Hatzinikolao., Athina.4.3 
 2. Chaney, Hatis Y.3.8 
 3. Casas, Mann Filter3.5 
 4. Ouvina, Mann Filter3.3 
 5. Tanqueray, Villeneuve3.3 
 6. Carpreaux, Villeneuve3.2 
 7. Gomis, Arras3.2 
 8. Wright, Elitzur Ramla3.0 
 9. Doron, Elitzur Ramla3.0 
 10. Milanovich, Spart.3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Luca IVANKOVIC
  Jolly
  (200-C-87)
  Avg: 4
 1. Ivankovic, Jolly4.0 
 2. Myasoedova, Dynam.4.0 
 3. Kuzina, Dynamo M.2.3 
 4. Meesseman, Young C.2.2 
 5. Riley, Athinaikos2.0 
 6. Dennett, Sint K.1.8 
 7. Davenport, Cheva.1.6 
 8. Cherepanova, Cheva.1.6 
 9. Hasper, Gorizont1.5 
 10. Gladden, Energa T.1.5 


*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Diana TAURASI
  Fenerbahce
  (182-F/G-82)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Taurasi, Fenerbahce24.6 
 2. McCoughtry, MKB E.22.0 
 3. Taylor, Fenerbahce19.6 
 4. Bonner, Rivas E.19.3 
 5. Charles, Nadezhda.18.3 
 6. Reid, Gospic18.1 
 7. Brunson, Ros C.17.9 
 8. Prince, Spartak .17.5 
 9. Dubljevic, Tarbes17.5 
 10. Jackson, Spartak .17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cheryl FORD
  Frisco Sika
  (191-F/C-81)
  Avg: 14
 1. Ford, Frisco Sika14.0 
 2. Charles, Nadezhda.12.6 
 3. Lyttle, Perfumer.10.9 
 4. Hollingswort., TTT R.10.5 
 5. Brunson, Ros C.10.4 
 6. Fowles, Galatasa.9.6 
 7. Dupree, Dobri Anjeli9.5 
 8. Bonner, Rivas E.9.4 
 9. Leuchanka, Gorzow9.2 
 10. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Dalma IVANYI
  Pecs 2010
  (178-G-76)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Ivanyi, Pecs 20104.9 
 2. Skerovic, Frisco Sika4.8 
 3. Taurasi, Fenerbahce4.7 
 4. Hammon, Nadezhda.4.6 
 5. Whalen, USK Praha4.5 
 6. Zirkova, Dobri Anjeli4.4 
 7. Reid, Gospic4.4 
 8. Dumerc, UMMC4.4 
 9. Honti, MKB Eurol.4.4 
 10. Prince, Spartak .4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 4
 1. Reid, Gospic4.0 
 2. Prince, Spartak .2.6 
 3. Brunson, Ros C.2.5 
 4. Phillips, Wisla C.2.5 
 5. Lyttle, Perfumer.2.4 
 6. McCoughtry, MKB E.2.3 
 7. Bimbaite, VICI K.2.3 
 8. Leedham, Gorzow2.3 
 9. Hammon, Nadezhda.2.2 
 10. Cruz, Rivas Ecopolis2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  Nadezhda O.
  (192-C-87)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.3.8 
 2. Stepanova, UMMC2.2 
 3. Jackson, Spartak .1.6 
 4. Ndongue, Bourges1.6 
 5. Fowles, Galatasa.1.3 
 6. Kulichova, USK P.1.3 
 7. Hollingswort., TTT R.1.1 
 8. Tamane, MKB Eurol.1.1 
 9. Burse, Wisla C.1.1 
 10. Wauters, UMMC1.0 


Standings (Women)
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Taranto 7-1 
 2. Wisla Can-Pak 5-3 
 3. Dobri Anjeli 5-3 
 4. Mondeville 3-5 
 5. MiZo Pecs 3-5 
 6. TTT Riga 1-7 
Group B
 1. Fenerbahce 8-0 
 2. UMMC 7-1 
 3. MKB Eurol. 4-4 
 4. Rivas Ecopolis 3-5 
 5. Gospic 1-7 
 6. Lotos Gdynia 1-7 
Group C
 1. Perfumerias 6-2 
 2. Spartak V MR 5-3 
 3. USK Praha 4-4 
 4. Galatasaray 3-5 
 5. Tarbes 3-5 
 6. VICI Kaunas 3-5 
Group D
 1. Ros Casares 6-2 
 2. Familia Schio 5-3 
 3. Bourges 5-3 
 4. Nadezhda O. 4-4 
 5. Frisco Sika 2-6 
 6. Gorzow 2-6 


Euroleague Round: 8 (Qualifying Round) - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Mondeville - Pecs 2010 62-66
Pecs 2010 grabbed a vital victory in their Euroleague campaign. The Hungarian team overcame USO Mondeville in France to catch up with their opponents in Group A standings. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) knocked down 18 points to lead the visitors. USO Mondeville in the meantime suffered an embarrassing fourth loss in a row at the tournament. Brumermane opened the scoring in this one. But Pecs 2010 quickly bounced back and surged ahead. Quigley gave the visitors a 15:8 lead midway through the quarter. USO Mondeville capped the period with nine straight points to enter the second frame up by two 17:15. Pecs 2010 surged back in front early in the second stanza. Zsofia Fegyverneky, Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76, college: Florida Intern.) and Krnjic opened a double-digit advantage for Pecs 2010 33:23 with under two minutes to go in the half. Valeriya Berezhynska (193-C-86, college: Rice) crowned the half with a jumper as USO Mondeville cut the distance. Kelsey Griffin and Dalma Ivanyi retained a 9-point lead for the visitors early in the third term. But USO Mondeville quickly replied with a 12:0 surge to steal back the lead. The roller-coaster action continued as Pecs 2010 spurred in front late in the frame posting a 47:44 advantage into the final quarter. Zsofia Fegyverneky and Bujdoso stretched the margin to 7 points early in the fourth period. Raksanyi followed with four straight points and Bujdoso then gave the visitors an 11-point cushion. USO Mondeville went on a desperate rescue rally in the final minutes and succeeded as Valeriya Berezhynska drew things level at 62 with just over a minute remining. Zsofia Fegyverneky immediately responded with a three-pointer to silence the crowd in France. Dalma Ivanyi provided 13 points for the winners. Valeriya Berezhynska had 22 poins for USO Mondeville. Lenae Williams (186-F-79, college: DePaul) delivered 13 points in the losing effort.

Wisla Can-Pak - Taranto 57-58
Taranto clinched the top position in Euroleague Group A. They snatched a narrow one-point victory over Wisla in Krakow. Elodie Godin (190-C-85) delivered 14 points to lead the visitors. Elodie Godin accounted for a late jumper that turned out as a game-winning. Wisla fell at 5-3 record after the defeat. Taranto opened the game with four points in a row and dominated in the first period. Siccardi gave the Italian team a 20:11 lead late in the quarter. But Wisla managed to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark at the break 19:24. Leciejewska triggered a 6:0 spurt from Wisla as they pulled in front 31:30 with just over two minutes left in the half. Michelle Greco (176-G-80) and Kathy Wambe (173-G-81) immediately responded with four consecutive points and Taranto outscored the hosts 36:32 in the first half. Wisla went on an 8:0 rally in the third period to regain the lead 42:40. Erin Phillips (173-G-85) capped the term with five straight points and Wisla enjoyed a 49:44 cushion at the moment. Taranto refused to give up and finally Elodie Godin put the visitors back on top 58:57 with 35 seconds remaing. Erin Phillips missed a jumper and then Wisla came up with no shot in the final possession as Taranto escaped with a tough win at the end. Kathy Wambe and Michelle Greco accounted for 10 points in the win. Erin Phillips replied with 18 points for Wisla. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82, agency: Data Plus Group) delivered 14 points in defeat.

Dobri Anjeli - TTT Riga 70-48
Dobri Anjeli edged visiting TTT Riga for the fifth Euroleague victory in the season. The Slovakian powerhouse improved at 5-3 record in the second place in Group A. TTT Riga in the meantime fell at 1-7 record after the defeat. Dobri Anjeli set the tone early. The hosts opened the game with eight points in a row. Candice Dupree opened a double digit advantage midway through the starting quarter. Lawless capped the period with a three-pointer as Dobri Anjeli enjoyed a 22:11 advantage. TTT Riga tried to stay close as Bulter and Shavonte Zellous (178-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) started the second frame with four points in a row. Eibele and Krumberga teamed up for three triples in the period as TTT Riga trailed by just four points at halftime 29:33. But the third term turned disastrous for the visitors. TTT Riga scored only 3 points in the quarter to face a massive 23-point deficit with ten minutes to go. TTT Riga tipped off the fourth frame with eight straight points but it was just sweetened the pill for the visiting team. Dobri Anjeli stayed in control and rolled to the win at the end. Charde Houston (185-F-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) produced 19 points and 9 rebounds for Dobri Anjeli. Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) added 16 points, 6 assists and 4 boards in the win. Shavonte Zellous replied with 11 points for TTT Riga. Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) had 8 points in defeat.

Group B
UMMC - Rivas Ecopolis 68-60
UMMC grabbed 7-1 record in Group B EuroLeague in front of 4500 local fans in Ekaterinburg. The Russian team needed the last spurt to overcome Rivas Ecopolis 68:60. The latter, who didn't have injured Amaya Valdemoro, played with great resolve and had a 47-46 lead going into the last quarter. Cappie Pondexter (175-G-83, college: Rutgers) nailed three at the very start, while Sandrine Gruda followed her with another three for 6:2 advantage. Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Abil.Christian) closed the period from the perimeter to make 14:8 for the home side. Rivas Ecopolis started the second period strong and Courtney Paris (193-C-87, college: Oklahoma) reduced to 14:12. DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, college: Auburn) scored later for 27:26 and Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76, college: George Washington) gave the first lead for the guests at 29:27. Cappie Pondexter needed to score from the arc to give UMMC 30:29 halftime deficit. The third quarter was one of the most interesting in the games as both sides did their best to get a control. UMMC remained in front for the majority of the game, while Courtney Paris scored for 47:46 after 30 minutes. Cruz remained her team within one point, but then UMMC pushed the tempo for good and won the game. Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) and Elisa Aguilar exchanged the last baskets for the final result. Cappie Pondexter stepped up with 21 points for the winners and Maria Stepanova added 15. Agnieszka Bibrzycka notched 12, whilst Sandrine Gruda scored 7. DeWanna Bonner answered with 15 points in the losing effort as the Spanish team dropped to 3-5 record. Elisa Aguilar netted 11 and Courtney Paris posted 10.

MKB Eurol. - Fenerbahce 81-92
Fenerbahce stayed on the winning track in Euroleague. The Turkish powerhouse registered the eighth straight victory as they fired past MKB Euroleasing in Sopron. Fenerbahce played without Diana Taurasi but it did not prevent them from securing another victory. Penelope Taylor (185-F-81) erupted for 37 points and 7 rebounds to keep Fenerbahce undefeated. The loss threw MKB Euroleasing at 4-4 record. Fenerbahce quickly jumped in front in the game. Nevriye Yilmaz (195-C-80) helped the visitors to a 14:6 lead midway through the quarter. Esmeral Tuncluer (175-G-80) ensured a 21:12 advantage before Kata Honti (175-G-87) and Angel McCoughtry (185-F-86, college: Louisville) capped the period with three points. Esmeral Tuncluer picked up from where she left in the opening term scoring the first bucket of the second quarter. However MKB Euroleasing went on a 9:2 run to narrow the deficit at a single point. Tamane and Amber Holt eventually put the hosts in front 30:28. Furesz and Angel McCoughtry delivered next five points as MKB Euroleasing went on a run that gave them a 42:34 halftime lead. Penelope Taylor stepped in the limelight in the third stanza. She exploded with impressive 22 points in the period as Fenerbahce denied the deficit and gained a 68:64 lead with one quarter remaining. Penelope Taylor and Esmeral Tuncluer ensured an 8-point lead for Fenerbahce early in the final period. Angel McCoughtry brought MKB Euroleasing within six points but the visitors responded with a 6:0 run to clear off for good in this one. Nevriye Yilmaz had 22 points and 10 rebounds for Fenerbahce. Esmeral Tuncluer added 14 points for the winners. Kata Honti responded with 17 points for MKB Euroleasing. Angel McCoughtry netted game-high 39 points in the loss.

Gospic - Lotos Gdynia 98-83
Gospic finally delivered their first win in the Euroleague season. The Croatian champions defeated Lotos Gdynia at home court to improve at 1-7 record in Group B. The victory allowed Gospic catch up with Lotos in the ladder. Maurita Reid (173-G-85, college: Miami (FL)) tallied 25 points, 9 assists, 6 boards and 5 steals for the winners. Michelle Maslowski (188-F/C-79, college: Drexel) triggered an 8:0 rally from the hosts as Gospic ensured a 12:4 lead midway through the first quarter. Gospic capped the period with nine points in a row taking a 29:16 lead. The Croatian side went on a scoring frenzy in the second term. The hosts exploded with 36 points to arrive at halftime up by 25 points 65:40. The teams traded baskets throughout the third period as Gospic maintained the advantage. Gospic entered the final stanza enjoying a comfortable 24-point cushion. The hosts did not loosen the grip in the fourth period and rallied to the initial win at the tournament. Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) had 24 points for Gospic. Michelle Maslowski contributed 13 points in the victory. Elina Babkina (172-G-89, agency: LBM Management) replied with 15 points for Lotos Gdynia. Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Texas) and Monica Wright (180-F-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia) finished with 13 points apiece in the loss.

Group C
Perfumerias - Tarbes 87-49
Halcon Avenida stayed in the first place in Group C of Euroleague Qualifying Round. They knocked down visiting Tarbes to improve at 6-2 record on top of the ladder. Anna Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) came up with 16 points to lead the hosts. Tarbes meanwhile fell at 3-5 record and would have a fierce fight for the spot in the next round. Thorn and Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) ensured a quick start for Tarbes. The visitors earned an 11:6 lead midway through the opening quarter. Halcon Avenida responded with a 13:0 run to cap the period as they gained a 21:13 lead. Xargay and Erika DeSouza helped the hosts to a 31:17 lead in the second term. Halcon Avenida soon increased the tempo and gradually started to clear off. Sancho Lyttle (193-C-83, college: Houston), Belinda Snell (181-F-81) and Xargay gave the Spanish team a comfortable 46:25 halftime lead. The home team unleashed 9 straight points at the beginning of the third quarter to enjoy a 55:25 lead. They never looked back en route to a 68:41 advantage at the final break. Tarbes struggled at both end of the floor as Halcon Avenida eased to the victory at the end. Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) and Sancho Lyttle delivered 15 points each for Halcon Avenida. Belinda Snell and Alba Torrens (184-F-89) had 11 points apiece in the victory. Jelena Dubljevic replied with 19 points for Tarbes. Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79) nailed 11 points in the loss.

VICI Kaunas - Galatasaray 91-86
VICI shocks another titan at home court as this time their victim was star-packed Galatasaray. The Lithuanian team tied the records at 3-5 after 91:86 valuable victory. VICI, known now as the home team, started with 5-0 run and never looked behind after in the quarter. Courtnay Pilypaitis (185-G-88, college: Vermont) nailed three for 19:15, while Seimone Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) closed the first period at 24:19. Trailing in the start of the second frame as well, the guests needed some important baskets midway through the period for 37:36 lead. VICI however managed to win the half 43:40 although they lost the frame 19-21. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) and two threes from Vita Kuktiene (186-F-80) gave the Baltic side 55:46 early in the third. Kemezys and Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90)'s two three-pointers brought 65:52, while Marina Solopova also made 68:59 later in the period. Seimone Augustus remained the Turksih side alive with a three at the end of the quarter at 69:62. VICI made everything they needed for the important victory and saved the lead in the last stanza. Courtnay Pilypaitis nailed three for 89:84 and Marina Solopova made two free throws for 91:84. Bahar Caglar (188-F-88) closed the game with a jump shot for the final result. Vita Kuktiene stepped up with 26 points for the hosts and Courtnay Pilypaitis notched 20. Giedre Paugaite and Marina Solopova followed them with 15 points apiece in the winning effort. Seimone Augustus answered with 20 points in the losing case. Sylvia Fowles (198-C-85, college: LSU) netted 19 and Bahar Caglar scored 14.

Spartak V MR - USK Praha 85-54
Spartak MR posted the fifth win in Euroleague season. They crushed USK Praha in Vidnoe to clear off in the second spot in Group C. USK Praha slipped at 4-4 record in the third place. Epiphanny Prince (175-G-88, college: Rutgers) scored 18 points to lead the defending champions. The teams stayed close early in the game. The lead changed hands for several times before Epiphanny Prince, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) and Milovanovic organized a 7:2 run that put the hosts up by 6 points at the first break 23:17. Spartak MR kept control in the second term. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) converted a three-point play to open a double digit lead for Spartak MR late in the half 37:27. Korstine opened the second part of the clash with four points in a row to stretch the margin. The Russian powerhouse used an 8:0 run midway through the quarter to take a 57:32 lead at the interval. Spartak MR arrived at the final intermission up by 23 points 65:42. USK Praha had no answers in the final period. Spartak MR got a firm grip on the lead and easily rolled to the victory at the end. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota provided 15 points for Spartak MR. Irina Osipova (196-F-81) and Lauren Jackson added 14 points each in the victory. Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89) replied with 15 points for USK Praha. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) contributed 14 points and 9 rebounds for the visitors.

Group D
Ros Casares - Familia Schio 65-51
Ros Casares becomes the leader of Group D in Euroleague as they edged Beretta-Famila in Spain. The hosts grabbed valuable 65:51 win in the top game of the day. Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) and Fernandez exchanged the early baskets and Kathryn Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) nailed three for 7:3. Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) later made it 10:6, while Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui tied it at 10:10 midway through the first period. The Spanish Powerhouse however closed the quarter with 8-0 run as Kathryn Douglas closed the frame at 18:10. Although Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui reduced to 24:21, the hosts needed 5-0 run for 29:21 lead. Masciadri was the last to score in the half as her team trail 9 points at the halftime. The tempo had slowed down in the third frame and the teams managed to score only 24 points together. Due to 13-11 in it Vesela made it 50:39 at the end of the quarter. Mc Carville reduced to 51:43 and Kathryn Douglas secured the bigger lead for her team. The Anerican player made it 62:43 when it became clear about the win. Rebekkah Brunson made a tip-in at the every end for the final win. Kathryn Douglas top-scored for the winners with 18 points for 6-2 record. Rebekkah Brunson collected 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Edwige Lawson-Wade netted 10. Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui responded with 15 points in defeat and Liron Cohen (173-G-82) added 13.

Nadezhda O. - Bourges 66-64
Nadezhda earned the third consecutive Euroleague victory. They narrowly defeated Bourges in Orenburg to celebrate the fourth win in last five games at the tournament. This success helped Nadezhda reach 4-4 record in Group D. Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Bourges in the meantime fell at fell at 5-3 record. Tina Charles was pivotal for Nadezhda in the starting frame. The centre came up with 13 points in ten minutes to give the hosts a 19:10 lead. The Orenburg side used a 9:0 rally to stretch the lead to as many as 16 points 28:12 midway through the second period. Lardy and Emmeline Ndongue (190-C-83) stopped the bleeding for Bourges but the French team still faced a 22:35 deficit at the interval. Sapova and Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) restored a 19-point lead for Nadezhda in the third term. Tina Charles followed with two free throws as the hosts enjoyed a 51:30 lead. Bourges capped the stanza on a 10:4 run to post a 40:55 advantage at the final intermission. Bourges tipped off the final quarter on a stunning 20:2 rally to steal a 58:57 lead from the hosts. Shameka Christon finally drained a triple to sober up Nadezhda. Kaltsidou drew things level but Becky Hammon (168-G-77, college: Colorado St.) and Shameka Christon hit back-to-back trifectas to give a 6-point buffer for Nadezhda with 47 seconds remaining. Catherine Joens (180-G-82) hit four points in a row to drag Bourges within two points but Bourges could not capitalize as Miljkovic committed a decisive turnover in the dying seconds. Shameka Christon delivered 16 points for Nadezhda. Becky Hammon added 12 points, 4 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Catherine Joens replied with 26 points for Bourges. Emmeline Ndongue had 10 points and 9 caroms in defeat.

Frisco Sika - Gorzow 71-64
Frisco Sika defeated Gorzow in the battle of the bottom of the Euroleague Group D. Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, college: Louisiana Tech) stepped up with 20 points and 11 boards to lead the hosts. Frisco Sika thus caught up with Gorzow in the ladder as both teams are now tied at 2-6 record. Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) and Izabela Piekarska (196-C/F-85, college: UTEP) gave Gorzow an early 7:2 lead but Frisco Sika gradually recovered. Hanusova and Cheryl Ford secured a 12:11 lead for the hosts with ten minutes gone. Gorzow opened the second quarter with eight straight points. Agnieszka Skobel and Kaczmarczyk enlarged the margin to 9 points midway through the second term. But Frisco Sika once again finished the quarter strongly cutting the deficit at just two points 25:27. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) tied the score at 27 early in the third term but Gorzow did not allow the Czech team to pull in charge. The Polish team stayed on top as they drove to a 44:39 lead at the third intermission. Frisco Sika grabbed the lead midway through the fourth quarter 51:48. Skerovic extended the lead to 5 points with under five minutes remaining. However Gorzow went on a 7:2 rally late in regulation to draw things level and force overtime. Hanusova and Cheryl Ford accounted for first four points in the extra term. Richards and Izabela Piekarska tried to keep Gorzow in this one but Cheryl Ford and Frida Eldebrink came up with timely baskets and Frisco Sika ran away for the victory at the end.



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


Halcon Avenida cruise past Tarbes - by Eurobasket News
Halcon Avenida - Tarbes 87:49

Halcon Avenida stayed in the first place in Group C of Euroleague Qualifying Round. They knocked down visiting Tarbes to improve at 6-2 record on top of the ladder. Anna Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) came up with 16 points to lead the hosts. Tarbes meanwhile fell at 3-5 record and would have a fierce fight for the spot in the next round.
Thorn and Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) ensured a quick start for Tarbes. The visitors earned an 11:6 lead midway through the opening quarter. Halcon Avenida responded with a 13:0 run to cap the period as they gained a 21:13 lead. Xargay and Erika DeSouza helped the hosts to a 31:17 lead in the second term. Halcon Avenida soon increased the tempo and gradually started to clear off. Sancho Lyttle (193-C-83, college: Houston), Belinda Snell (181-F-81) and Xargay gave the Spanish team a comfortable 46:25 halftime lead. The home team unleashed 9 straight points at the beginning of the third quarter to enjoy a 55:25 lead. They never looked back en route to a 68:41 advantage at the final break. Tarbes struggled at both end of the floor as Halcon Avenida eased to the victory at the end. Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) and Sancho Lyttle delivered 15 points each for Halcon Avenida. Belinda Snell and Alba Torrens (184-F-89) had 11 points apiece in the victory. Jelena Dubljevic replied with 19 points for Tarbes. Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79) nailed 11 points in the loss.

Halcon Avenida: Anna Montanana 16, Anke De Mondt 15, Sancho Lyttle 15
Tarbes: Jelena Dubljevic 19, Ivanka Matic 11


Nadezhda post third straight Euroleague victory - by Eurobasket News
Nadezhda - Bourges 66:64

Nadezhda earned the third consecutive Euroleague victory. They narrowly defeated Bourges in Orenburg to celebrate the fourth win in last five games at the tournament. This success helped Nadezhda reach 4-4 record in Group D. Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Bourges in the meantime fell at fell at 5-3 record.
Tina Charles was pivotal for Nadezhda in the starting frame. The centre came up with 13 points in ten minutes to give the hosts a 19:10 lead. The Orenburg side used a 9:0 rally to stretch the lead to as many as 16 points 28:12 midway through the second period. Lardy and Emmeline Ndongue (190-C-83) stopped the bleeding for Bourges but the French team still faced a 22:35 deficit at the interval. Sapova and Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) restored a 19-point lead for Nadezhda in the third term. Tina Charles followed with two free throws as the hosts enjoyed a 51:30 lead. Bourges capped the stanza on a 10:4 run to post a 40:55 advantage at the final intermission. Bourges tipped off the final quarter on a stunning 20:2 rally to steal a 58:57 lead from the hosts. Shameka Christon finally drained a triple to sober up Nadezhda. Kaltsidou drew things level but Becky Hammon (168-G-77, college: Colorado St.) and Shameka Christon hit back-to-back trifectas to give a 6-point buffer for Nadezhda with 47 seconds remaining. Catherine Joens (180-G-82) hit four points in a row to drag Bourges within two points but Bourges could not capitalize as Miljkovic committed a decisive turnover in the dying seconds. Shameka Christon delivered 16 points for Nadezhda. Becky Hammon added 12 points, 4 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Catherine Joens replied with 26 points for Bourges. Emmeline Ndongue had 10 points and 9 caroms in defeat.

Nadezhda: Tina Charles 22, Shameka Christon 16, Becky Hammon 12
Bourges: Catherine Joens 26, Emmeline Ndongue 10


Pecs 2010 earn valuable win in Mondeville - by Eurobasket News
USO Mondeville - Pecs 2010 62:66

Pecs 2010 grabbed a vital victory in their Euroleague campaign. The Hungarian team overcame USO Mondeville in France to catch up with their opponents in Group A standings. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) knocked down 18 points to lead the visitors. USO Mondeville in the meantime suffered an embarrassing fourth loss in a row at the tournament.
Brumermane opened the scoring in this one. But Pecs 2010 quickly bounced back and surged ahead. Quigley gave the visitors a 15:8 lead midway through the quarter. USO Mondeville capped the period with nine straight points to enter the second frame up by two 17:15. Pecs 2010 surged back in front early in the second stanza. Zsofia Fegyverneky, Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76, college: Florida Intern.) and Krnjic opened a double-digit advantage for Pecs 2010 33:23 with under two minutes to go in the half. Valeriya Berezhynska (193-C-86, college: Rice) crowned the half with a jumper as USO Mondeville cut the distance. Kelsey Griffin (188-F-87, college: Nebraska) and Dalma Ivanyi retained a 9-point lead for the visitors early in the third term. But USO Mondeville quickly replied with a 12:0 surge to steal back the lead. The roller-coaster action continued as Pecs 2010 spurred in front late in the frame posting a 47:44 advantage into the final quarter. Zsofia Fegyverneky and Bujdoso stretched the margin to 7 points early in the fourth period. Raksanyi followed with four straight points and Bujdoso then gave the visitors an 11-point cushion. USO Mondeville went on a desperate rescue rally in the final minutes and succeeded as Valeriya Berezhynska drew things level at 62 with just over a minute remining. Zsofia Fegyverneky immediately responded with a three-pointer to silence the crowd in France. Dalma Ivanyi provided 13 points for the winners. Valeriya Berezhynska had 22 poins for USO Mondeville. Lenae Williams (186-F-79, college: DePaul) delivered 13 points in the losing effort.

USO Mondeville: Valeriya Berezhynska 22, Lenae Williams 13
Pecs 2010: Zsofia Fegyverneky 18, Dalma Ivanyi 13, Kelsey Griffin 8


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  FYR MACEDONIA - Women  


D1 Round 9: Vigor Skopje beats Panteri Skopje in a derby game - by Eurobasket News
D1 is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 9 rounds left.

D1 round 9 most expected game was a derby match between two local teams from Skopje: Vigor (#1) and Panteri (#6). Panteri was crushed at home by 23 points 60-83 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Vigor Skopje (8-1) have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place. Panteri Skopje lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the eighth position with five games lost. Vigor Skopje are looking forward to face Kolibri Ohrid (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Panteri Skopje's supporters also look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Skopje to the arena Klubski Junior.
Very important is a road loss of third-ranked Kolibri Ohrid (5-4) against seventh ranked (4-4) on Saturday night. Visiting Kolibri Ohrid was crushed by seventh ranked (4-4) in Trokal 74-49. Trokal moved-up to sixth place. Kolibri Ohrid at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. Trokal will play against higher ranked Mladinec Skopje (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Kolibri Ohrid will play against the league's leader Vigor Skopje and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game was also a derby match between two local teams from Skopje: Klubski Junior (#5) and V.Lisici (#9). V.Lisici was crushed at home by 17 points 43-60 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Klubski Junior. Newly promoted Klubski Junior maintains fifth place with 6-3 record. V.Lisici Skopje lost their sixth straight game in a row. They keep the ninth position with eight games lost. They share it with Student Skopje. Klubski Junior's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Skopje Panteri Skopje.

In the last game of round 9 Bottom-ranked Student Skopje was defeated by Struga 2009 in a road game 62-51.

Trokal - Kolibri Ohrid 74-49
Very important is a roadloss of third-ranked Kolibri Ohrid (5-4) against seventh ranked (4-4) on Saturday night. Visiting Kolibri Ohrid was crushed by seventh ranked (4-4) in Trokal 74-49. Trokal moved-up to sixth place. Kolibri Ohrid at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. Trokal will play against higher ranked Mladinec Skopje (#4) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Kolibri Ohrid will play against the league's leader Vigor Skopje and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 114532


Struga 2009 - Student Skopje 62-51
There was no surprise when 10th ranked Student Skopje (1-8) was defeated on the road by eighth ranked Struga 2009 (4-5) 62-51 on Saturday. Struga 2009 moved-up to seventh place. Student Skopje lost their eighth straight game in a row. Student Skopje at the other side, also first year in the league, keeps the bottom position with eight games lost. They share it with V.Lisici Skopje. Struga 2009 will meet at home league's second-placed Baden Kroatia in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Student Skopje's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Skopje to the arena V.Lisici Skopje.
gschID: 114534


V.Lisici Skopje - Klubski Junior 43-60
An interesting game was also a derby match between two local teams from Skopje: Klubski Junior (#5) and V.Lisici (#9). V.Lisici was crushed at home by 17 points 43-60 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Klubski Junior. Newly promoted Klubski Junior maintains fifth place with 6-3 record. V.Lisici Skopje lost their sixth straight game in a row. They keep the ninth position with eight games lost. They share it with Student Skopje. Klubski Junior's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Skopje Panteri Skopje.
gschID: 114535


Panteri Skopje - Vigor Skopje 60-83
D1 round 9 most expected game was a derby match between two local teams from Skopje: Vigor (#1) and Panteri (#6). Panteri was crushed at home by 23 points 60-83 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Vigor Skopje (8-1) have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place. Panteri Skopje lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the eighth position with five games lost. Vigor Skopje are looking forward to face Kolibri Ohrid (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Panteri Skopje's supporters also look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Skopje to the arena Klubski Junior.
gschID: 114536




Standings - Women
D1 Standings
 1. Vigor Skopje 8-1 
 2. Baden Kroatia 6-2 
 3. Klubski Junior 6-3 
 4. Mladinec Skopje 5-3 
 5. Kolibri Ohrid 5-4 
 6. Trokal 4-4 
 7. Struga 2009 4-5 
 8. Panteri Skopje 3-5 
 9. Student Skopje 1-8 
 10. V.Lisici Skopje 1-8 


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  HUNGARY - Women  


Pecs 2010 earn valuable win in Mondeville - by Eurobasket News
USO Mondeville - Pecs 2010 62:66

Pecs 2010 grabbed a vital victory in their Euroleague campaign. The Hungarian team overcame USO Mondeville in France to catch up with their opponents in Group A standings. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) knocked down 18 points to lead the visitors. USO Mondeville in the meantime suffered an embarrassing fourth loss in a row at the tournament.
Brumermane opened the scoring in this one. But Pecs 2010 quickly bounced back and surged ahead. Quigley gave the visitors a 15:8 lead midway through the quarter. USO Mondeville capped the period with nine straight points to enter the second frame up by two 17:15. Pecs 2010 surged back in front early in the second stanza. Zsofia Fegyverneky, Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76, college: Florida Intern.) and Krnjic opened a double-digit advantage for Pecs 2010 33:23 with under two minutes to go in the half. Valeriya Berezhynska (193-C-86, college: Rice) crowned the half with a jumper as USO Mondeville cut the distance. Kelsey Griffin (188-F-87, college: Nebraska) and Dalma Ivanyi retained a 9-point lead for the visitors early in the third term. But USO Mondeville quickly replied with a 12:0 surge to steal back the lead. The roller-coaster action continued as Pecs 2010 spurred in front late in the frame posting a 47:44 advantage into the final quarter. Zsofia Fegyverneky and Bujdoso stretched the margin to 7 points early in the fourth period. Raksanyi followed with four straight points and Bujdoso then gave the visitors an 11-point cushion. USO Mondeville went on a desperate rescue rally in the final minutes and succeeded as Valeriya Berezhynska drew things level at 62 with just over a minute remining. Zsofia Fegyverneky immediately responded with a three-pointer to silence the crowd in France. Dalma Ivanyi provided 13 points for the winners. Valeriya Berezhynska had 22 poins for USO Mondeville. Lenae Williams (186-F-79, college: DePaul) delivered 13 points in the losing effort.

USO Mondeville: Valeriya Berezhynska 22, Lenae Williams 13
Pecs 2010: Zsofia Fegyverneky 18, Dalma Ivanyi 13, Kelsey Griffin 8


Fenerbahce celebrate eighth straight Euroleague victory - by Eurobasket News
MKB Euroleasing - Fenerbahce 81:92

Fenerbahce stayed on the winning track in Euroleague. The Turkish powerhouse registered the eighth straight victory as they fired past MKB Euroleasing in Sopron. Fenerbahce played without Diana Taurasi but it did not prevent them from securing another victory. Penelope Taylor (185-F-81) erupted for 37 points and 7 rebounds to keep Fenerbahce undefeated. The loss threw MKB Euroleasing at 4-4 record.
Fenerbahce quickly jumped in front in the game. Nevriye Yilmaz (195-C-80) helped the visitors to a 14:6 lead midway through the quarter. Esmeral Tuncluer (175-G-80) ensured a 21:12 advantage before Kata Honti (175-G-87) and Angel McCoughtry (185-F-86, college: Louisville) capped the period with three points. Esmeral Tuncluer picked up from where she left in the opening term scoring the first bucket of the second quarter. However MKB Euroleasing went on a 9:2 run to narrow the deficit at a single point. Tamane and Amber Holt (183-G/F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) eventually put the hosts in front 30:28. Furesz and Angel McCoughtry delivered next five points as MKB Euroleasing went on a run that gave them a 42:34 halftime lead. Penelope Taylor stepped in the limelight in the third stanza. She exploded with impressive 22 points in the period as Fenerbahce denied the deficit and gained a 68:64 lead with one quarter remaining. Penelope Taylor and Esmeral Tuncluer ensured an 8-point lead for Fenerbahce early in the final period. Angel McCoughtry brought MKB Euroleasing within six points but the visitors responded with a 6:0 run to clear off for good in this one. Nevriye Yilmaz had 22 points and 10 rebounds for Fenerbahce. Esmeral Tuncluer added 14 points for the winners. Kata Honti responded with 17 points for MKB Euroleasing. Angel McCoughtry netted game-high 39 points in the loss.

MKB Euroleasing: Angel McCoughtry 39, Kata Honti 17, Amber Holt 11
Fenerbahce: Penelope Taylor 37, Nevriye Yilmaz 22+10 boards, Esmeral Tuncluer 14


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  ITALY - Women  


Taranto clinch top spot in Euroleague Group A - by Eurobasket News
Wisla - Taranto 57:58

Taranto clinched the top position in Euroleague Group A. They snatched a narrow one-point victory over Wisla in Krakow. Elodie Godin (190-C-85) delivered 14 points to lead the visitors. Elodie Godin accounted for a late jumper that turned out as a game-winning. Wisla fell at 5-3 record after the defeat.
Taranto opened the game with four points in a row and dominated in the first period. Siccardi gave the Italian team a 20:11 lead late in the quarter. But Wisla managed to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark at the break 19:24. Leciejewska triggered a 6:0 spurt from Wisla as they pulled in front 31:30 with just over two minutes left in the half. Michelle Greco (176-G-80) and Kathy Wambe (173-G-81) immediately responded with four consecutive points and Taranto outscored the hosts 36:32 in the first half. Wisla went on an 8:0 rally in the third period to regain the lead 42:40. Erin Phillips (173-G-85) capped the term with five straight points and Wisla enjoyed a 49:44 cushion at the moment. Taranto refused to give up and finally Elodie Godin put the visitors back on top 58:57 with 35 seconds remaing. Erin Phillips missed a jumper and then Wisla came up with no shot in the final possession as Taranto escaped with a tough win at the end. Kathy Wambe and Michelle Greco accounted for 10 points in the win. Erin Phillips replied with 18 points for Wisla. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82, agency: Data Plus Group) delivered 14 points in defeat.

Wisla: Erin Phillips 18, Ewelina Kobryn 14
Taranto: Elodie Godin 14, Kathy Wambe 10, Michelle Greco 10


Ros Casares becomes the leader of Group D in Euroleague - by Eurobasket News
Ros Casares-Beretta-Famila 65:51

Ros Casares becomes the leader of Group D in Euroleague as they edged Beretta-Famila in Spain. The hosts grabbed valuable 65:51 win in the top game of the day.
Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) and Fernandez exchanged the early baskets and Kathryn Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) nailed three for 7:3. Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) later made it 10:6, while Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui tied it at 10:10 midway through the first period. The Spanish Powerhouse however closed the quarter with 8-0 run as Kathryn Douglas closed the frame at 18:10. Although Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui reduced to 24:21, the hosts needed 5-0 run for 29:21 lead. Masciadri was the last to score in the half as her team trail 9 points at the halftime. The tempo had slowed down in the third frame and the teams managed to score only 24 points together. Due to 13-11 in it Vesela made it 50:39 at the end of the quarter. Mc Carville reduced to 51:43 and Kathryn Douglas secured the bigger lead for her team. The Anerican player made it 62:43 when it became clear about the win. Rebekkah Brunson made a tip-in at the every end for the final win.
Kathryn Douglas top-scored for the winners with 18 points for 6-2 record. Rebekkah Brunson collected 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Edwige Lawson-Wade (167-G-79) netted 10. Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui responded with 15 points in defeat and Liron Cohen (173-G-82) added 13.

Ros Casares: Kathryn Douglas 18, Rebekkah Brunson 14+14 rebs, Edwige Lawson-Wade 10
Beretta-Famila: Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui 15, Liron Cohen 13



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  LATVIA - Women  


Dobri Anjeli post fifth Euroleague victory - by Eurobasket News
Dobri Anjeli - TTT Riga 70:48

Dobri Anjeli edged visiting TTT Riga for the fifth Euroleague victory in the season. The Slovakian powerhouse improved at 5-3 record in the second place in Group A. TTT Riga in the meantime fell at 1-7 record after the defeat.
Dobri Anjeli set the tone early. The hosts opened the game with eight points in a row. Candice Dupree (188-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) opened a double digit advantage midway through the starting quarter. Lawless capped the period with a three-pointer as Dobri Anjeli enjoyed a 22:11 advantage. TTT Riga tried to stay close as Bulter and Shavonte Zellous (178-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) started the second frame with four points in a row. Eibele and Krumberga teamed up for three triples in the period as TTT Riga trailed by just four points at halftime 29:33. But the third term turned disastrous for the visitors. TTT Riga scored only 3 points in the quarter to face a massive 23-point deficit with ten minutes to go. TTT Riga tipped off the fourth frame with eight straight points but it was just sweetened the pill for the visiting team. Dobri Anjeli stayed in control and rolled to the win at the end. Charde Houston (185-F-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) produced 19 points and 9 rebounds for Dobri Anjeli. Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) added 16 points, 6 assists and 4 boards in the win. Shavonte Zellous replied with 11 points for TTT Riga. Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) had 8 points in defeat.

Dobri Anjeli: Charde Houston 19, Zuzana Zirkova 16, Candice Dupree 15+13 boards
TTT Riga: Shavonte Zellous 11, Kimberly Butler 8


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  LITHUANIA - Women  


VICI shocks another titan at home court - by Eurobasket News
VICI-Galatasaray 91:86

VICI shocks another titan at home court as this time their victim was star-packed Galatasaray. The Lithuanian team tied the records at 3-5 after 91:86 valuable victory.
VICI, known now as the home team, started with 5-0 run and never looked behind after in the quarter. Courtnay Pilypaitis (185-G-88, college: Vermont) nailed three for 19:15, while Seimone Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) closed the first period at 24:19. Trailing in the start of the second frame as well, the guests needed some important baskets midway through the period for 37:36 lead. VICI however managed to win the half 43:40 although they lost the frame 19-21. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) and two threes from Vita Kuktiene (186-F-80) gave the Baltic side 55:46 early in the third. Kemezys and Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90)'s two three-pointers brought 65:52, while Marina Solopova also made 68:59 later in the period. Seimone Augustus remained the Turksih side alive with a three at the end of the quarter at 69:62. VICI made everything they needed for the important victory and saved the lead in the last stanza. Courtnay Pilypaitis nailed three for 89:84 and Marina Solopova made two free throws for 91:84. Bahar Caglar (188-F-88) closed the game with a jump shot for the final result.
Vita Kuktiene stepped up with 26 points for the hosts and Courtnay Pilypaitis notched 20. Giedre Paugaite and Marina Solopova followed them with 15 points apiece in the winning effort. Seimone Augustus answered with 20 points in the losing case. Sylvia Fowles (198-C-85, college: LSU) netted 19 and Bahar Caglar scored 14.

VICI: Vita Kuktiene 26, Courtnay Pilypaitis 20, Giedre Paugaite 15, Marina Solopova 15
Galatasaray: Seimone Augustus 20, Sylvia Fowles 19, Bahar Caglar 14


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  MONTENEGRO - Women  


Superleague Round 4: Buducnost loses #1 position - by Eurobasket News
There were three games played in round 4.

Round 4 in Superleague means a new league leader. The biggest surprise was when host Jednistvo II's (1-1) victory at home over one of league's best team Buducnost (2-1) 62-57 on Saturday evening. It also means the end of Buducnost's two-game winning streak. Jednistvo II left bottom position moving up to fourth place. Buducnost at the other side dropped to the third position with one game lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Heceg Novi. Buducnost will play next round against Roling Niksic trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Jednistvo II will try to continue on it's current victory against sixth ranked Primorje in Herceg Novi.
Very important is a home loss of third-ranked Roling Niksic (1-2) against fourth ranked Heceg Novi (3-1) on Saturday night. Host Roling was defeated by fourth ranked Heceg Novi (3-1) in a tough game in Niksic 68-76. Heceg Novi become a new league leader. Roling Niksic at the other side dropped to the fifth place with two games lost. Heceg Novi will play against league's second-placed Rudar in Sjever in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Roling Niksic will play at home against Buducnost in Podgorica and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Primorje (0-4) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 47-56 loss to second ranked Rudar (2-0) in Sjever on Saturday evening. Rudar maintains second position with 2-0 record having just three point less than leader Heceg Novi. Newly promoted Primorje still closes the standings with four games lost. Rudar will meet league's leader Heceg Novi in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Primorje will play against Jednistovo II (#4) in Bijelo Polje and hopes to get finally their first victory.


Jednistvo II - Buducnost 62-57
Round 4 in Superleague means a new league leader. The biggest surprise was when host Jednistovo II's (1-1) victory at home over one of league's best team Buducnost (2-1) 62-57 on Saturday evening. It also means the end of Buducnost's two-game winning streak. Jednistovo II left bottom position moving up to fourth place. Buducnost at the other side dropped to the third position with one game lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Heceg Novi. Buducnost will play next round against Roling Niksic trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Jednistovo II will try to continue on it's current victory against sixth ranked Primorje in Herceg Novi.
gschID: 115229


Roling Niksic - Heceg Novi 68-76
Very important is a homel oss of third-ranked Roling Niksic (1-2) against fourth ranked Heceg Novi (3-1) on Saturday night. Host Roling was defeated by fourth ranked Heceg Novi (3-1) in a tough game in Niksic 68-76. Heceg Novi become a new league leader. Roling Niksic at the other side dropped to the fifth place with two games lost. Heceg Novi will play against league's second-placed Rudar in Sjever in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Roling Niksic will play at home against Buducnost in Podgorica and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 115227


Rudar - Primorje 56-47
Bottom-ranked Primorje (0-4) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 47-56 loss to second ranked Rudar (2-0) in Sjever on Saturday evening. Rudar maintains second position with 2-0 record having just three point less than leader Heceg Novi. Newly promoted Primorje still closes the standings with four games lost. Rudar will meet league's leader Heceg Novi in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Primorje will play against Jednistovo II (#4) in Bijelo Polje and hopes to get finally their first victory.
gschID: 115228




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  NORWAY - Women  


Kvinneligaen Round 10: Asker/BV is a new leader - by Eurobasket News
The biggest surprise of 10th round was when host Asker/BV (9-0) defeated lower ranked Gimle (#3) by 7 points 69-62 on Saturday evening. It allowed Asker/BV to take over a leadership position It also means the end of Gimle's three-game winning streak. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the first quarter 16-12. But Gimle won second quarter 18-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The former international forward Siri Andersen (180-78) fired 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. International center Tina Nesse (184-84) chipped in 16 points and 11 rebounds. Asker/BV's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international guard Sigrun Eskeland (-83) produced 23 points and 9 rebounds for lost side. Asker/BV has a solid nine-game winning streak. Defending champion become a new league leader. Gimle at the other side keeps the third place with one game lost. Gimle will play next round against Nordstrand trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Asker/BV will try to continue on it's current victory against fourth ranked Ullern in Oslo.
Another exciting game was played in Oslo between third ranked Gimle and one of their biggest challengers Ullern where Gimle (8-1) smashed Ullern (2-5) on the road with 20-point difference 72-52. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Sigrun Eskeland (-83) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 7 rebounds. Martina Wood contributed with 13 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Kristine Kristiansen (-75) replied with 8 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists for Ullern. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Gimle has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 8-1 record having just one point less than Asker/BV. Ullern at the other side keeps the fourth place with five games lost. Gimle will play against Nordstrand (#6) in Oslo in the next round. Ullern will play on the road against the league's leader Asker/BV in Rykkinn and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Bottom-ranked Oslo (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 24-83 loss to first-ranked Asker/BV (9-0) in Oslo on Wednesday evening. Tina Nesse had a double-double by scoring 23 points and 12 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. At the losing side Anab Ovidie responded with 10 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Asker/BV has a solid nine-game winning streak. Defending champion become a new league leader. Newly promoted Oslo still closes the standings with nine games lost. Asker/BV will meet at home Ullern (#4) in the next round. Oslo will play against Gimle in Bergen and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Bottom-ranked Oslo (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 44-124 loss to third ranked Ulriken (9-2) in Oslo. Hailey Dunham notched a triple-double by scoring 44 points (!!!), 14 rebounds and 10 assists to lead the effort. Oslo's coach Bilal Rodgers gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Ulriken has a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Newly promoted Oslo still closes the standings with nine games lost. Ulriken will have a break next round. Oslo will play on the road against Gimle (#3) in Bergen and looks forward to get finally their first victory.


Ullern - Gimle 52-72

Another exciting game was played in Oslo between third ranked Gimle and one of their biggest challengers Ullern where Gimle (8-1) smashed Ullern (2-5) on the road with 20-point difference 72-52. The game without a history. Gimle led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Gimle shot 23 for 36 from the free-throw line, while Ullern only scored seven points from the stripe. Gimle outrebounded Ullern 44-22 including a 33-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Ullern was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Sigrun Eskeland (-83) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 7 rebounds. American power forward Martina Wood (188, college: N.Carolina) contributed with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Four Gimle players scored in double figures. The former international guard Kristine Kristiansen (-75) replied with 8 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists and international guard Oda Austheim (-83) added 9 points in the effort for Ullern. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Gimle has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 8-1 record having just one point less than leader Asker/BV. Ullern at the other side keeps the fourth place with five games lost. Gimle will play against Nordstrand (#6) in Oslo in the next round. Ullern will play on the road against the league's leader Asker/BV in Rykkinn and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Ullern: H.Blikra 9+1reb+1ast, O.Austheim 9+2reb+1ast, G.Nyquist 8+2reb+1ast, K.Kristiansen 8+7reb+8ast, T.Hager 6+3reb+1ast, K.Tonheim 4+1reb
Gimle: S.Eskeland 18+7reb+3ast, M.Wood 13+12reb+2ast, J.Flaaten 12+5reb+6ast, I.Selvik 12+13reb+2ast, K.Brekke 8+4reb+4ast, J.Winther 3+1reb
gschID: 108447


Oslo - Asker/BV 24-83

Bottom-ranked Oslo (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 24-83 loss to first-ranked Asker/BV (9-0) in Oslo on Wednesday evening. The game without a history. Asker/BV led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Oslo to just 2 points in first quarter and to 7 points in first half. Asker/BV held Oslo to an opponent 23.9 percent shooting from the field compared to Asker/BV's 38.2 percent accuracy. They also forced 21 Oslo turnovers and outrebounded them 43-27 including a 23-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. International center Tina Nesse (184-84) had a double-double by scoring 23 points and 12 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international forward Siri Andersen (180-78) chipped in 14 points during the contest. At the losing side guard Anab Ovidie responded with 10 points and forward Claire Brown scored 2 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Asker/BV has a solid nine-game winning streak. Defending champion become a new league leader. Newly promoted Oslo still closes the standings with nine games lost. Asker/BV will meet at home Ullern (#4) in the next round. Oslo will play against Gimle in Bergen and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Oslo: A.Ovidie 10+2reb, A.Erdogan 5+2reb, S.Pettersen 3+2reb+1ast, E.Mannikkoe 2+2reb+1ast, R.Riis 2+4reb, C.Brown 2+5reb
Asker/BV: T.Nesse 23+12reb, S.Andersen 14+4reb+2ast, I.Skorpen 13+1ast, N.Sand 9+6reb+3ast, M.Sand 8+4reb+1ast, A.Hammer 7+5reb+1ast
gschID: 108451


Oslo - Ulriken 44-124

Bottom-ranked Oslo (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 44-124 loss to third ranked Ulriken (9-2) in Oslo. Ulriken dominated down low during the game scoring 100 of its points in the paint compared to Oslo's 38. Ulriken forced 33 Oslo turnovers. They were unselfish on offense dishing 29 assists. American guard Hailey Dunham (188-87, college: USC, agency: Merit Sports) notched a triple-double by scoring 44 points (!!!), 14 rebounds and 10 assists to lead the effort and guard Stine Austgulen (177-94) who supported her with 26 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Ulriken players scored in double figures. Even 10 points and 6 rebounds by forward Ragnhild Riis (-84) did not help to save the game for Oslo. Guard Aysun Erdogan (-87) added 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for lost side. Oslo's coach Bilal Rodgers gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Ulriken has a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Newly promoted Oslo still closes the standings with nine games lost. Ulriken will have a break next round. Oslo will play on the road against Gimle (#3) in Bergen and looks forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Oslo: C.Brown 10+7reb+2ast, R.Riis 10+6reb+3ast, A.Erdogan 9+6reb+4ast, S.Pettersen 7+2reb+2ast, S.El-Masrouri 4+7reb+3ast, T.Haxhimehmedi 2+1reb+1ast
Ulriken: H.Dunham 44+14reb+10ast, S.Austgulen 26+9reb+5ast, E.Gronas 25+5reb+6ast, M.Hoff Austgulen 13+8reb+4ast, H.Kongestol 5+2reb, S.Solberg 4+5reb+2ast
gschID: 108445


Asker/BV - Gimle 69-62

The biggest surprise of 10th round was when host Asker/BV (9-0) defeated lower ranked Gimle (#3) by 7 points 69-62 on Saturday evening. It allowed Asker/BV to take over a leadership position It also means the end of Gimle's three-game winning streak. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the first quarter 16-12. But Gimle won second quarter 18-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The former international forward Siri Andersen (180-78) fired 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. International center Tina Nesse (184-84) chipped in a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds. Asker/BV's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international guard Sigrun Eskeland (-83) produced 23 points and 9 rebounds and forward Ingrid Selvik (175-92) added 6 points and 12 rebounds respectively for lost side. Asker/BV has a solid nine-game winning streak. Defending champion became a new league leader. Gimle at the other side keeps the third place with one game lost. Gimle will play next round against Nordstrand trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Asker/BV will try to continue on it's current victory against fourth ranked Ullern in Oslo.
Top scorers:
Gimle: S.Eskeland 23+9reb, M.Wood 14+3reb, K.Brekke 8+3reb, I.Selvik 6+12reb+1ast, J.Flaaten 5+1reb+2ast, J.Winther 2+2ast
Asker/BV: S.Andersen 20+8reb+3ast, T.Nesse 16+11reb+1ast, S.Skorpen 13+5reb+2ast, N.Sand 7+12reb+3ast, M.Sand 6+1reb, L.Hellander 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 108446




Standings - Women
Kvinneligaen Standings
 1. Asker/BV 9-0 
 2. Ulriken 9-2 
 3. Gimle 8-1 
 4. Ullern 2-5 
 5. NTNUI 2-7 
 6. Nordstrand 1-7 
 7. Oslo 0-9 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Hailey DUNHAM
  Ulriken
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 25.6
 1. Dunham, Ulriken25.6 
 2. Kristiansen, Ullern18.9 
 3. Eskeland, Gimle17.8 
 4. Austgulen, Ulriken17.2 
 5. Wood, Gimle17.0 
 6. Gronas, Ulriken15.7 
 7. Austgulen, Ulriken15.6 
 8. Sand, Asker/BV14.7 
 9. Nyquist, Ullern13.7 
 10. Skorpen, Asker/BV13.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nanna SAND
  Asker/BV
  (181-F-77)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Sand, Asker/BV10.8 
 2. Wood, Gimle10.5 
 3. Austgulen, Ulriken9.5 
 4. Gris, NT.9.0 
 5. Nesse, Asker/BV8.8 
 6. Dunham, Ulriken8.4 
 7. Selvik, Gimle8.3 
 8. Eskeland, Gimle8.0 
 9. Moore, NT.7.0 
 10. Kristiansen, Ullern6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Hailey DUNHAM
  Ulriken
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 6
 1. Dunham, Ulriken6.0 
 2. Sand, Asker/BV4.6 
 3. Flaaten, Gimle4.2 
 4. Austgulen, Ulriken4.2 
 5. Stenvik, Asker/BV3.3 
 6. Gronas, Ulriken3.3 
 7. Kristiansen, Ullern2.9 
 8. Brekke, Gimle2.7 
 9. Aas, Nordstrand2.7 
 10. Sodal, Nordstrand2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Hailey DUNHAM
  Ulriken
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 4
 1. Dunham, Ulriken4.0 
 2. Aas, Nordstrand3.1 
 3. Moore, NT.2.9 
 4. Kristiansen, Ullern2.7 
 5. Brekke, Gimle2.5 
 6. Eskeland, Gimle2.4 
 7. Austgulen, Ulriken2.4 
 8. Andersson, Asker/BV2.3 
 9. Ankarstrand, Nords.2.2 
 10. Gris, NT.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Martina WOOD
  Gimle
  (188-F/C-)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Wood, Gimle1.5 
 2. Gris, NT.1.3 
 3. Nesse, Asker/BV1.1 
 4. Eskeland, Gimle1.0 
 5. Grindelid, Asker/BV0.9 
 6. Kroge, Nordstrand0.9 
 7. Austgulen, Ulriken0.9 
 8. Oloughlin, Nordstrand0.7 
 9. Sand, Asker/BV0.7 
 10. Austheim, Ullern0.6 


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  POLAND - Women  


Gospic edge Lotos, leave last place in Euroleague Group B - by Eurobasket News
Gospic - Lotos Gdynia 98:83

Gospic finally delivered their first win in the Euroleague season. The Croatian champions defeated Lotos Gdynia at home court to improve at 1-7 record in Group B. The victory allowed Gospic catch up with Lotos in the ladder. Maurita Reid (173-G-85, college: Miami (FL)) tallied 25 points, 9 assists, 6 boards and 5 steals for the winners.
Michelle Maslowski (188-F/C-79, college: Drexel) triggered an 8:0 rally from the hosts as Gospic ensured a 12:4 lead midway through the first quarter. Gospic capped the period with nine points in a row taking a 29:16 lead. The Croatian side went on a scoring frenzy in the second term. The hosts exploded with 36 points to arrive at halftime up by 25 points 65:40. The teams traded baskets throughout the third period as Gospic maintained the advantage. Gospic entered the final stanza enjoying a comfortable 24-point cushion. The hosts did not loosen the grip in the fourth period and rallied to the initial win at the tournament. Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) had 24 points for Gospic. Michelle Maslowski contributed 13 points in the victory. Elina Babkina (172-G-89, agency: LBM Management) replied with 15 points for Lotos Gdynia. Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Texas) and Monica Wright (180-F-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia) finished with 13 points apiece in the loss.

Gospic: Maurita Reid 25, Marija Vrsaljko 24, Michelle Maslowski 13
Lotos Gdynia: Elina Babkina 15, Daria Mieloszynska 13, Monica Wright 13


Taranto clinch top spot in Euroleague Group A - by Eurobasket News
Wisla - Taranto 57:58

Taranto clinched the top position in Euroleague Group A. They snatched a narrow one-point victory over Wisla in Krakow. Elodie Godin (190-C-85) delivered 14 points to lead the visitors. Elodie Godin accounted for a late jumper that turned out as a game-winning. Wisla fell at 5-3 record after the defeat.
Taranto opened the game with four points in a row and dominated in the first period. Siccardi gave the Italian team a 20:11 lead late in the quarter. But Wisla managed to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark at the break 19:24. Leciejewska triggered a 6:0 spurt from Wisla as they pulled in front 31:30 with just over two minutes left in the half. Michelle Greco (176-G-80) and Kathy Wambe (173-G-81) immediately responded with four consecutive points and Taranto outscored the hosts 36:32 in the first half. Wisla went on an 8:0 rally in the third period to regain the lead 42:40. Erin Phillips (173-G-85) capped the term with five straight points and Wisla enjoyed a 49:44 cushion at the moment. Taranto refused to give up and finally Elodie Godin put the visitors back on top 58:57 with 35 seconds remaing. Erin Phillips missed a jumper and then Wisla came up with no shot in the final possession as Taranto escaped with a tough win at the end. Kathy Wambe and Michelle Greco accounted for 10 points in the win. Erin Phillips replied with 18 points for Wisla. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82, agency: Data Plus Group) delivered 14 points in defeat.

Wisla: Erin Phillips 18, Ewelina Kobryn 14
Taranto: Elodie Godin 14, Kathy Wambe 10, Michelle Greco 10


Frisco Sika better Gorzow in Brno - by Eurobasket News
Frisco Sika - Gorzow 71:64 (OT)

Frisco Sika defeated Gorzow in the battle of the bottom of the Euroleague Group D. Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, college: Louisiana Tech) stepped up with 20 points and 11 boards to lead the hosts. Frisco Sika thus caught up with Gorzow in the ladder as both teams are now tied at 2-6 record.
Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) and Izabela Piekarska (196-C/F-85, college: UTEP) gave Gorzow an early 7:2 lead but Frisco Sika gradually recovered. Hanusova and Cheryl Ford secured a 12:11 lead for the hosts with ten minutes gone. Gorzow opened the second quarter with eight straight points. Agnieszka Skobel (180-F-89) and Kaczmarczyk enlarged the margin to 9 points midway through the second term. But Frisco Sika once again finished the quarter strongly cutting the deficit at just two points 25:27. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) tied the score at 27 early in the third term but Gorzow did not allow the Czech team to pull in charge. The Polish team stayed on top as they drove to a 44:39 lead at the third intermission. Frisco Sika grabbed the lead midway through the fourth quarter 51:48. Skerovic extended the lead to 5 points with under five minutes remaining. However Gorzow went on a 7:2 rally late in regulation to draw things level and force overtime. Hanusova and Cheryl Ford accounted for first four points in the extra term. Richards and Izabela Piekarska tried to keep Gorzow in this one but Cheryl Ford and Frida Eldebrink came up with timely baskets and Frisco Sika ran away for the victory at the end.
Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) notched 16 points for Frisco Sika. Frida Eldebrink added 10 points in the winning effort. Justyna Zurowska answered with 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for Gorzow. Agnieszka Skobel and Izabela Piekarska had 13 points apiece in the loss.

Frisco Sika: Cheryl Ford 20+11 boards, Louice Halvarsson 16, Frida Eldebrink 10
Gorzow: Justyna Zurowska 17, Agnieszka Skobel 13, Izabela Piekarska 13


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  PORTUGAL - Women  


Nwagbo's double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old guard Chineze Nwagbo (183-G-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for AD Vagos and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
She had a double-double of 20 points and 14 rebounds, while her team crushed Boa Viagem (#4, 6-4) with 22-point margin 77-55. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. AD Vagos maintains the 3rd position in Portuguese Liga Feminina. They are still close to the very top. AD Vagos would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 8-2 record. Nwagbo turned to be AD Vagos' top player in her first season with the team. Syracuse University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Nwagbo is league's best scorer averaging so far 22.8ppg. Nwagbo is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 11.5rpg) and averages solid 61.8% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Earnesia Williams (185-F-87) of Olivais Coimbra. She is American forward in her first season at Olivais. In the last game Williams recorded impressive 25 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. Of course she lead Olivais to another comfortable win outscoring Uniao Micaelense (#11, 0-10) 103-35. Olivais' 5th position in the standings has not changed. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-5 record is not bad and everything may still change. Williams is a newcomer at Olivais and quickly became the team's new leader. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.4ppg (#9). She also registered 7.5 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to swingman Kendel Ross (185-G/F-88) of GDESSA/Barreiro (#8). Ross scored 22 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Ross' great performance GDESSA lost 67-68 to the higher-ranked CAB Madeira (#1, 9-1). But her team cannot count on just a single player as she also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of GDESSA ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 6 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Ross could help GDESSA to bring them higher in the standings. Ross has a great season in Portugal. After 11 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 22.5ppg (2nd best) and rebounds with 12.3rpg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Collen Planeta (188-F-88) of Barcelos - 23 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Necolia Simmons (183-F/C-87) of CDTN - 25 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Kia Herbel (C) of GDESSA - 16 points and 18 rebounds
7. Sofia Silva (187-C-90) of Olivais - 12 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Utahya Drye (185-F-88) of CAB Madeira - 22 points and 9 rebounds
9. Kiva Herman (183-F-87) of Olivais - 24 points and 4 rebounds
10. Alison Mann (186-F-85) of Quinta - 17 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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  RUSSIA - Women  


Spartak MR breeze past USK Praha in Vidnoe - by Eurobasket News
Spartak MR - USK Praha 85:54

Spartak MR posted the fifth win in Euroleague season. They crushed USK Praha in Vidnoe to clear off in the second spot in Group C. USK Praha slipped at 4-4 record in the third place. Epiphanny Prince (175-G-88, college: Rutgers) scored 18 points to lead the defending champions.
The teams stayed close early in the game. The lead changed hands for several times before Epiphanny Prince, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) and Milovanovic organized a 7:2 run that put the hosts up by 6 points at the first break 23:17. Spartak MR kept control in the second term. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) converted a three-point play to open a double digit lead for Spartak MR late in the half 37:27. Korstine opened the second part of the clash with four points in a row to stretch the margin. The Russian powerhouse used an 8:0 run midway through the quarter to take a 57:32 lead at the interval. Spartak MR arrived at the final intermission up by 23 points 65:42. USK Praha had no answers in the final period. Spartak MR got a firm grip on the lead and easily rolled to the victory at the end. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota provided 15 points for Spartak MR. Irina Osipova (196-F-81) and Lauren Jackson added 14 points each in the victory. Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89) replied with 15 points for USK Praha. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) contributed 14 points and 9 rebounds for the visitors.

Spartak MR: Epiphanny Prince 18, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 15, Lauren Jackson 14, Irina Osipova 14
USK Praha: Katerina Elhotova 15, Delisha Milton-Jones 14


UMMC grabbed 7-1 record in Group B EuroLeague in front of 4500 local fans - by Eurobasket News
UMMC-Rivas Ecopolis 68:60

UMMC grabbed 7-1 record in Group B EuroLeague in front of 4500 local fans in Ekaterinburg. The Russian team needed the last spurt to overcome Rivas Ecopolis 68:60. The latter, who didn't have injured Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76), played with great resolve and had a 47-46 lead going into the last quarter.
Cappie Pondexter (175-G-83, college: Rutgers) nailed three at the very start, while Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) followed her with another three for 6:2 advantage. Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Abil.Christian) closed the period from the perimeter to make 14:8 for the home side. Rivas Ecopolis started the second period strong and Courtney Paris (193-C-87, college: Oklahoma) reduced to 14:12. DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, college: Auburn) scored later for 27:26 and Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76, college: George Washington) gave the first lead for the guests at 29:27. Cappie Pondexter needed to score from the arc to give UMMC 30:29 halftime deficit. The third quarter was one of the most interesting in the games as both sides did their best to get a control. UMMC remained in front for the majority of the game, while Courtney Paris scored for 47:46 after 30 minutes. Cruz remained her team within one point, but then UMMC pushed the tempo for good and won the game. Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) and Elisa Aguilar exchanged the last baskets for the final result.
Cappie Pondexter stepped up with 21 points for the winners and Maria Stepanova added 15. Agnieszka Bibrzycka notched 12, whilst Sandrine Gruda scored 7. DeWanna Bonner answered with 15 points in the losing effort as the Spanish team dropped to 3-5 record. Elisa Aguilar netted 11 and Courtney Paris posted 10.

UMMC: Cappie Pondexter 21, Maria Stepanova 15, Agnieszka Bibrzycka 12, Sandrine Gruda 7
Rivas Ecopolis: DeWanna Bonner 15, Elisa Aguilar 11, Courtney Paris 10



Nadezhda post third straight Euroleague victory - by Eurobasket News
Nadezhda - Bourges 66:64

Nadezhda earned the third consecutive Euroleague victory. They narrowly defeated Bourges in Orenburg to celebrate the fourth win in last five games at the tournament. This success helped Nadezhda reach 4-4 record in Group D. Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Bourges in the meantime fell at fell at 5-3 record.
Tina Charles was pivotal for Nadezhda in the starting frame. The centre came up with 13 points in ten minutes to give the hosts a 19:10 lead. The Orenburg side used a 9:0 rally to stretch the lead to as many as 16 points 28:12 midway through the second period. Lardy and Emmeline Ndongue (190-C-83) stopped the bleeding for Bourges but the French team still faced a 22:35 deficit at the interval. Sapova and Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) restored a 19-point lead for Nadezhda in the third term. Tina Charles followed with two free throws as the hosts enjoyed a 51:30 lead. Bourges capped the stanza on a 10:4 run to post a 40:55 advantage at the final intermission. Bourges tipped off the final quarter on a stunning 20:2 rally to steal a 58:57 lead from the hosts. Shameka Christon finally drained a triple to sober up Nadezhda. Kaltsidou drew things level but Becky Hammon (168-G-77, college: Colorado St.) and Shameka Christon hit back-to-back trifectas to give a 6-point buffer for Nadezhda with 47 seconds remaining. Catherine Joens (180-G-82) hit four points in a row to drag Bourges within two points but Bourges could not capitalize as Miljkovic committed a decisive turnover in the dying seconds. Shameka Christon delivered 16 points for Nadezhda. Becky Hammon added 12 points, 4 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Catherine Joens replied with 26 points for Bourges. Emmeline Ndongue had 10 points and 9 caroms in defeat.

Nadezhda: Tina Charles 22, Shameka Christon 16, Becky Hammon 12
Bourges: Catherine Joens 26, Emmeline Ndongue 10


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  SERBIA - Women  


A1: Round 10 review - by Eurobasket News
Crvena Zvezda - Radnicki KG 85-68
Crvena Zvezda celebrated at home as they were better than Radnicki KG 85-68. Ana Niksic (182-F-91) led the winning side with 27 points in this game. She got support from Ivana Grubor (185-F/C-84) and Jovana Popovic (173-G-90) who followed with 19 points each. On the other side, Radnicki KG got 20 points from Aleksandra Katic, while Aleksandra Racic (181-G-90) and Marija Saravan chipped in 15 points.

Spartak - Hemofarm 49-70
Hemofarm had an easy night against their hosts Spartak. From the very start it was evident that Spartak players are in for a long night. By the halftime, the score stood at 19-39. From there, Hemofarm players continued to increase pressure and of course to increase their lead. They routinely finished the game and have celebrated more than deserved 49-70 win.

Kovin - Proleter 65-56
Kovin played hosts to Proleter and have managed to secure win at home. Kovin opened the game better and have taken the initial lead. They extend it by halftime when they were comfortably up 42-22. In the final period, Proleter players tried to mount a comeback but it was too late. Kovin players managed to hold onto their lead and have celebrated 65-56 win in the end.

Student - Loznica 62-67
Loznica traveled to Student and managed to steal one from them on their way 5 point win. It was a closely contested match for the most part, but in the closing minutes Loznica managed to secure 62-67 win in the end.

A League Standings
1. Hemofarm 9-0
2. Crvena Zvezda 6-3
3. Celarevo 5-2
4. Spartak 5-4
5. Student 5-4
6. Kovin 4-5
7. Proleter 2-7
8. Loznica 2-7
9. Radnicki KG 1-7

Standings - Women
A League Standings
 1. Hemofarm 9-0 
 2. Crvena Zvezda 6-3 
 3. Celarevo 5-2 
 4. Spartak 5-4 
 5. Student 5-4 
 6. Kovin 4-5 
 7. Proleter 2-7 
 8. Loznica 2-7 
 9. Radnicki KG 1-7 
Play in international cups:
 1. Partizan - 
 2. Radivoj Korac - 
 3. Vojvodina - 
 4. Vozdovac - 


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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Dobri Anjeli post fifth Euroleague victory - by Eurobasket News
Dobri Anjeli - TTT Riga 70:48

Dobri Anjeli edged visiting TTT Riga for the fifth Euroleague victory in the season. The Slovakian powerhouse improved at 5-3 record in the second place in Group A. TTT Riga in the meantime fell at 1-7 record after the defeat.
Dobri Anjeli set the tone early. The hosts opened the game with eight points in a row. Candice Dupree (188-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) opened a double digit advantage midway through the starting quarter. Lawless capped the period with a three-pointer as Dobri Anjeli enjoyed a 22:11 advantage. TTT Riga tried to stay close as Bulter and Shavonte Zellous (178-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) started the second frame with four points in a row. Eibele and Krumberga teamed up for three triples in the period as TTT Riga trailed by just four points at halftime 29:33. But the third term turned disastrous for the visitors. TTT Riga scored only 3 points in the quarter to face a massive 23-point deficit with ten minutes to go. TTT Riga tipped off the fourth frame with eight straight points but it was just sweetened the pill for the visiting team. Dobri Anjeli stayed in control and rolled to the win at the end. Charde Houston (185-F-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) produced 19 points and 9 rebounds for Dobri Anjeli. Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) added 16 points, 6 assists and 4 boards in the win. Shavonte Zellous replied with 11 points for TTT Riga. Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) had 8 points in defeat.

Dobri Anjeli: Charde Houston 19, Zuzana Zirkova 16, Candice Dupree 15+13 boards
TTT Riga: Shavonte Zellous 11, Kimberly Butler 8


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  SLOVENIA - Women  


Bojana Duric two assists shy of a triple-double - by Zeljko Zule
Bojana Duric (174-G-91) came two assists shy of a triple-double, scoring 16 points with 10 rebounds, 8 asissts and two steals against Celje in Triglav's overtime loss 76-79 while Jezica defeated Odeja 70-67.
Celje-Triglav 79-76: Ursa Cuk knotted the game at 66-66 with 0:41 into the game, but she missed its final shot with the buzzer, sending the game to an extra period. In the overtime Lea Jagodiic put Celje ahead, 79-75, with a jumper and additional free throw with 15 seconds to go. Nika Baric had with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, Lea Jagodic scored 15 points, Maaike Klein 11 and Ana Turcinovic collected 10 points and 11 rebounds. The largest lead for either team was 7 points. Triglav lead 64-59 with 3:02 remaining, but they were held scoreless from the field through the end of the game. Bojana Duric finished two assists shy of a triple-double. She had 16 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assist, Ziva Zdolsek collected 19 points and 14 rebounds and Katja Spacapan scored 20 points.
Jezica-Odeja 70-67: Despite erasing a 16-point deficit, 44-59 early in the final period, and even taking the 67-66 lead with 0:12 into the game, Odeja couldn't hold off the home team. Nina Gabrovsek scored 22 points. including two free throws in the final seconds, and grabbed 10 rebounds, Ziva Macura collected 18 points and 0 rebounds and Jasmina Hatic and Kristina Pavli scored 10 points apice. Odeja was led by Klavdija Oblak and her 20 points, Tina Cadez added 14, Nina Zakelj 14 and Nina Gabrovsek grabbed 17 rebounds.


Standings - Women
SKL Standings
 1. Merkur Celje 12-1 
 2. Hit K.Gora 10-0 
 3. AJM Maribor 8-2 
 4. Ilrija 7-3 
 5. Triglav 6-5 
 6. Jezica 6-6 
 7. GVT Konjice 4-6 
 8. Odeja KED 3-7 
 9. Grosuplje 3-7 
 10. Kozmetika Afr. 1-12 
 11. Domzale 0-11 


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  SOUTH KOREA - Women  


Standings - WKBL
WKBL Standings
 1. Bichumi 11-2 
 2. S-Birds 9-2 
 3. Cool Cats 6-6 
 4. Winnus 5-7 
 5. KB Savers 4-8 
 6. Woori Hansae 1-11 


WKBL Round 13: Bichumi defeats Woori Hansae in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
There were only three games played in round 13.

Sixth-ranked Woori Hansae (1-11) gave a tough game to first ranked Bichumi (11-2) in Yongin on Saturday. Bichumi managed to secure only three-point victory 65-62. However their fans expected much easier game. Bichumi stay at first position. Woori Hansae lost sixth consecutive game. The team is currently on the bottom place with a 1-11 record. Bichumi will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Woori Hansae will play on the road against Winnus (#4) in Guri and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very significant was Bichumi's (#1) 68-58 home victory against 3rd placed Cool Cats. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Cool Cats. were very close to get their first win. But it seems they have to wait a little bit longer. Bichumi (11-2) stay at first position. Cool Cats are currently in third place with a 6-6 record as they suffered their sixth loss. Bichumi will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Cool Cats will play at home against the league's second-placed S-Birds in Anshan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 13 KB Savers lost to Winnus on the opponent's court 61-66.

Winnus - KB Savers 66-61

Everything could happen in Guri at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked Winnus and 5th ranked KB Savers had identical 4-7 record. This time Winnus used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Seoul 66-61. Despite the victory Winnus (5-7) stay at fourth position. KB Savers are currently in fifth place with a 4-8 record as they suffered their eighth loss. Winnus will play against bottom-ranked Woori Hansae (#6) in Chuncheon in the next round. KB Savers will play on the road against Woori Hansae in Chuncheon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 115542


Bichumi - Cool Cats 68-58

Very significant was Bichumi's (#1) 68-58 home victory against 3rd placed Cool Cats. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Cool Cats. Bichumi (11-2) stay at first position. Cool Cats are currently in third place with a 6-6 record as they suffered their sixth loss. Bichumi will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Cool Cats will play at home against the league's second-placed S-Birds in Anshan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 115543


Bichumi - Woori Hansae 65-62

Sixth-ranked Woori Hansae (1-11) gave a tough game to first ranked Bichumi (11-2) in Yongin on Saturday. Bichumi managed to secure only three-point victory 65-62. However their fans expected much easier game. Bichumi stay at first position. Woori Hansae lost sixth consecutive game. The team is currently on the bottom place with a 1-11 record. Bichumi will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Woori Hansae will play on the road against Winnus (#4) in Guri and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 115541




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  SPAIN - Women  


UMMC grabbed 7-1 record in Group B EuroLeague in front of 4500 local fans - by Eurobasket News
UMMC-Rivas Ecopolis 68:60

UMMC grabbed 7-1 record in Group B EuroLeague in front of 4500 local fans in Ekaterinburg. The Russian team needed the last spurt to overcome Rivas Ecopolis 68:60. The latter, who didn't have injured Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76), played with great resolve and had a 47-46 lead going into the last quarter.
Cappie Pondexter (175-G-83, college: Rutgers) nailed three at the very start, while Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) followed her with another three for 6:2 advantage. Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Abil.Christian) closed the period from the perimeter to make 14:8 for the home side. Rivas Ecopolis started the second period strong and Courtney Paris (193-C-87, college: Oklahoma) reduced to 14:12. DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, college: Auburn) scored later for 27:26 and Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76, college: George Washington) gave the first lead for the guests at 29:27. Cappie Pondexter needed to score from the arc to give UMMC 30:29 halftime deficit. The third quarter was one of the most interesting in the games as both sides did their best to get a control. UMMC remained in front for the majority of the game, while Courtney Paris scored for 47:46 after 30 minutes. Cruz remained her team within one point, but then UMMC pushed the tempo for good and won the game. Maria Stepanova (203-C-79) and Elisa Aguilar exchanged the last baskets for the final result.
Cappie Pondexter stepped up with 21 points for the winners and Maria Stepanova added 15. Agnieszka Bibrzycka notched 12, whilst Sandrine Gruda scored 7. DeWanna Bonner answered with 15 points in the losing effort as the Spanish team dropped to 3-5 record. Elisa Aguilar netted 11 and Courtney Paris posted 10.

UMMC: Cappie Pondexter 21, Maria Stepanova 15, Agnieszka Bibrzycka 12, Sandrine Gruda 7
Rivas Ecopolis: DeWanna Bonner 15, Elisa Aguilar 11, Courtney Paris 10



Halcon Avenida cruise past Tarbes - by Eurobasket News
Halcon Avenida - Tarbes 87:49

Halcon Avenida stayed in the first place in Group C of Euroleague Qualifying Round. They knocked down visiting Tarbes to improve at 6-2 record on top of the ladder. Anna Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) came up with 16 points to lead the hosts. Tarbes meanwhile fell at 3-5 record and would have a fierce fight for the spot in the next round.
Thorn and Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) ensured a quick start for Tarbes. The visitors earned an 11:6 lead midway through the opening quarter. Halcon Avenida responded with a 13:0 run to cap the period as they gained a 21:13 lead. Xargay and Erika DeSouza helped the hosts to a 31:17 lead in the second term. Halcon Avenida soon increased the tempo and gradually started to clear off. Sancho Lyttle (193-C-83, college: Houston), Belinda Snell (181-F-81) and Xargay gave the Spanish team a comfortable 46:25 halftime lead. The home team unleashed 9 straight points at the beginning of the third quarter to enjoy a 55:25 lead. They never looked back en route to a 68:41 advantage at the final break. Tarbes struggled at both end of the floor as Halcon Avenida eased to the victory at the end. Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) and Sancho Lyttle delivered 15 points each for Halcon Avenida. Belinda Snell and Alba Torrens (184-F-89) had 11 points apiece in the victory. Jelena Dubljevic replied with 19 points for Tarbes. Ivanka Matic (195-F/C-79) nailed 11 points in the loss.

Halcon Avenida: Anna Montanana 16, Anke De Mondt 15, Sancho Lyttle 15
Tarbes: Jelena Dubljevic 19, Ivanka Matic 11


Ros Casares becomes the leader of Group D in Euroleague - by Eurobasket News
Ros Casares-Beretta-Famila 65:51

Ros Casares becomes the leader of Group D in Euroleague as they edged Beretta-Famila in Spain. The hosts grabbed valuable 65:51 win in the top game of the day.
Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) and Fernandez exchanged the early baskets and Kathryn Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) nailed three for 7:3. Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) later made it 10:6, while Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui tied it at 10:10 midway through the first period. The Spanish Powerhouse however closed the quarter with 8-0 run as Kathryn Douglas closed the frame at 18:10. Although Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui reduced to 24:21, the hosts needed 5-0 run for 29:21 lead. Masciadri was the last to score in the half as her team trail 9 points at the halftime. The tempo had slowed down in the third frame and the teams managed to score only 24 points together. Due to 13-11 in it Vesela made it 50:39 at the end of the quarter. Mc Carville reduced to 51:43 and Kathryn Douglas secured the bigger lead for her team. The Anerican player made it 62:43 when it became clear about the win. Rebekkah Brunson made a tip-in at the every end for the final win.
Kathryn Douglas top-scored for the winners with 18 points for 6-2 record. Rebekkah Brunson collected 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Edwige Lawson-Wade (167-G-79) netted 10. Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui responded with 15 points in defeat and Liron Cohen (173-G-82) added 13.

Ros Casares: Kathryn Douglas 18, Rebekkah Brunson 14+14 rebs, Edwige Lawson-Wade 10
Beretta-Famila: Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui 15, Liron Cohen 13