Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 12/4/2010

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Men News

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

ABA

Admirals ready for first games - by Gianni Pascucci
The Lake Michigan Admirals are ready to get the season started. This Saturday, December 4th, at Lake Michigan Catholic at 7:00pm is the season opener for the Admirals. If its anything like last year, the season will be filled with fast-paced, high-flying, fan-friendly entertainment and will provide an NBA like atmosphere right here in southwest Michigan. Last years inaugural team made it to the ABA playoffs, a rare feat for a first year team. This weekend is a double-game matchup against the Seattle Mountaineers. The second game in the series will be played on Sunday, December 5th at Coloma High School at 3:00pm. This will be a tough series, but a good barometer for our teams chemistry and areas for us to improve, General Manager, Chris Glisson explained. 'The Mountaineers are very similar to our Admirals squad....explosive on offense and tenacious on defense'. Tickets are still available at the door for both games.

Mavericks romp over Fuel in 84 point victory - by Gianni Pascucci
The Southeast Texas Mavericks (5-0) defeated the Texas Fuel (2-4) in dominating fashion on Thursday night 147-63 (!!) at their NJEC Arena in Winnie, TX. The Fuel scored the first two points of the game and led twice in the opening moments of the first quarter. But with the score at 13-11 with the Mavericks back in front the Mavs went on an 18-0 run led by DeSean White (6'8''-F-86, college: Northwood Fl.) and Myles Thrash (6'0''-G-77, college: Stillman), who came off the SETX bench. The Mavericks went on the lead big after one period of play 35-13. The second quarter led too much of the same as the Mavericks bench continued to wear down the Fuel. Currye Todd (6'4''-G-85, college: Lamar) got act as did Alex Sanders (6'7''-F/C-75, college: Louisville) and Desmond Cambridge (6'0''-G-79, college: Alabama A&M). The Mavericks continued to score in bunches and led at the half 71-29. The third quarter was led by bookend wing players Jermaine Blackburn (6'7''-G/F-83, college: Boise St.) and Josh Pace (6'6''-G-83, college: Syracuse) as the Mavericks played their most dominating quarter of the season by scoring 42 points in the quarter and as the quarter ended the Mavs found themselves ahead 113-46. In the last period of play the Mavericks cleared their bench and cruised on to their 5th victory of the season.
Nine Mavericks Players scored in double figures in the game! Todd led the Mavs in scoring with 22 points. White and Blackburn each scored 16 points. Alex Sanders, Pace, and Thrash scored 14 points apiece. Odell Bradley (6'4''-F/G-81, college: IUPUI) added 13 points and Kenny Dawkins (5'9''-G-87, college: Lamar) rounded out the double figure scorers with 12 points respectively. Julius Allgood (6'6''-F, college: Southern St. CC) led the TX Fuel with 18 points and Lamar Wright (6'10''-C-78, college: Porterville JC) added 17 points.
The Mavericks will be back in action on Saturday night at home vs the Dallas Impact. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM.

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ALGERIA

Standings

D1 Standings

1. GS Petroliers		11-0
2. WA Boufarik		11-0
3. Staoueli		8-2
4. Blida		8-3
5. CRB Dar El-B.		7-3
6. Sidi-bel-Abbes		6-5
7. CSMC		5-3
8. Arreridj		5-4
9. O Batna		5-4
10. Annaba		3-7
11. NAH Dey		3-8
12. CRB Temouch.		2-6
13. U.S.M.		2-8
14. Skikda		1-8
15. ASPTT		1-9
16. USMM Hadjout		1-9

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ANGOLA

Petro x Inter: 65 x 64 - by Antonio Santos
On the 1st game of the evening Petro beat Inter by one point. This game is part od MPLA tournement tha are playing today and tomorrow in Luanda. With 31 x 33 at the half, Rod Nealy give a bit contribution on the boards finisching with 9pt and 19reb. Cedric Isom with 12pt+5reb and Paulo Santana with 9pt help the team to win the game and make the trip to the final. From Inter Eduardo Mingas finisch with 11pt+17reb; Lifetu Selenge 15pt+9reb and Shannon Croks with 13pt. Tomorrow they will play the final vs the winner od 1 de Agosto x Libolo 2nd game.

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ASEAN LEAGUE

Steve Thomas is here to Save the Day for the Patriots - by Sheryl Reyes
Steve Thomas (203-F-81, college: Middle Tenn.St.) , was currently playing with the Southeast Texas Mavericks (ABA) when he got a call to replace Donald Little (211-C-78, college: Cincinnati) he has always been supportive of the ABA team however when he got the offer he knew he had to take it , For Continental Basketball Association followers you would remember Steve Thomas as one of the leading rebounder , averaging 13.7 points, 1.7 blocked shots and 10.8 rebounds for the East Kentucky Miners. Thomas is no. 1 in rebounding, no. 3 in blocked shots and no. 3 in field goal percentage (62.5%). He also shoots 70.5% from the foul line.

In his collegiate basketball career, he first played 3 seasons at the University of Georgia before sitting out a season to gain eligibility at Middle Tennessee. As a senior in 2004-05, he averaged 10.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 24 minutes, with a 48.5% shooting from the field and 70.8% shooting from the line in 24 games.

Internationally, he played as an import in the Polish basketball league where he is an All-Star before he came to play for the Continental Basketball Association. He also played for El Million in Dominican Republic, Wellington in New Zealand, Sonic Boom KT , Air 21 Philippines just to name a few. He is a very hardworking athlete that is unselfish and makes his team mates look good. He has the heart of a winner and now that he was selected by the Patriots to cotinue there task to continue and remain to be the champions for the ABL season 2. He will be playing alongside Rasheim Wright (194-G-81, college: District of Col.) and they are expected to be a dangerous tandem to beat. He will make his first debut game vs the KL Dragons on the 9th of December in the Patriots home Arena Ynarez Pasig.

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AUSTRALIA

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Hawks		7-1
2. Breakers		6-2
3. Taipans		5-2
4. Wildcats		5-4
5. Crocodiles		5-4
6. 36ers		3-5
7. Blaze		3-5
8. Sydney K.		1-6
9. Tigers		1-7

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Gary ERVIN
  Hawks
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 22.9

1. Ervin, Hawks	22.9
2. Redhage, Wildcats	19.2
3. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	18.1
4. Ubaka, Taipans	17.6
5. Worthington, Blaze	17.6
6. Clark, Blaze	17.5
7. Forman, Hawks	16.0
8. Penney, Breakers	16.0
9. Williams, Tigers	15.7
10. Ballinger, 36ers	15.1

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	9.6
2. Petrie, Blaze	8.3
3. Holmes, 36ers	8.1
4. Forman, Hawks	8.0
5. Davidson, Hawks	7.8
6. Greer, Tigers	7.5
7. Vukona, Breakers	7.5
8. Knight, Wildcats	7.4
9. Nevill, Tigers	7.1
10. Schenscher, Croco.	7.0

Assists Per Game

Glen SAVILLE
  Hawks
  (197-G/F-76)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Saville, Hawks	5.5
2. Williams, Tigers	5.3
3. Ervin, Hawks	5.3
4. Carter, 36ers	4.8
5. Gibson, Blaze	4.6
6. Cooper, Sydney K.	4.3
7. Braswell, Breakers	3.6
8. DeVries, 36ers	3.6
9. Holmes, 36ers	3.5
10. Ubaka, Taipans	3.4

Steals Per Game

Glen SAVILLE
  Hawks
  (197-G/F-76)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Saville, Hawks	2.5
2. Penney, Breakers	2.0
3. Gibson, Blaze	1.5
4. Carter, 36ers	1.4
5. Martin, Wildcats	1.4
6. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	1.4
7. Crawford, Croco.	1.2
8. Lisch, Wildcats	1.1
9. Dorsey, Taipans	1.1
10. Braswell, Breakers	1.1

Blocks Per Game

Gary ERVIN
  Hawks
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Ervin, Hawks	1.4
2. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	1.1
3. Penney, Breakers	1.0
4. Williams, Tigers	1.0
5. Corletto, Tigers	1.0
6. Vukona, Breakers	0.9
7. Devendorf, Tigers	0.9
8. Redhage, Wildcats	0.9
9. Wilkinson, Breakers	0.9
10. Weigh, Wildcats	0.8

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BAHRAIN

Standings

Premier League Standings

1. Al Manama		6-0
2. Al Ahli		6-1
3. Muharraq		5-2
4. Nuwaidrat		4-2
5. Sitra		4-3
6. Issa Town		3-3
7. Al Ittihad		2-4
8. Bahrain Club		1-5
9. Al Hala		1-6
10. Al Najma		0-6

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BELGIUM

Washington lifts Lottomatica to 95-83 win against Charleroi - by Eurobasket News
Lottomatica - Charleroi 95-83

Valuable home win for Lottomatica, who jumped to 4-3 record in Group B. At the same time, Charleroi dropped to 2-5. Darius Washington

(188-G-85, college: Memphis) was a key player for the hosts draining 27 points. Nihad Dedovic

(196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) also had very important role adding 16 points and 5 boards, while Ali Traore

(207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) helped with 12 pts and 5 rebs. In defeat, Joseph Gomis

(180-G-78) had 19 points and 5 rebs. Brian Greene

(204-F-81, college: Colorado St.) stopped to 13 pts.
Lottomatica made 15-11 lead at the halfway of the first quarter, but Charleroi players woke up after that making 7-13 run for rest of the time (22-24, Q1). Visitors jumped to 33-39 and later to 35-43, but Darius Washington and Datome shined in the finish of the first half closing the gap to 41-45 after 20 minutes. In third period Lottomatica touched plus 8, after triple by Dasic, but they were not able to keep that lead. They were not able to keep the lead at all as Charleroi responded with 2-10 until the end of Q3 and teams went to the last ten minutes with 66-66 tie. Lottomatica exploded in the last quarter. Darius Washington and Nihad Dedovic were on fire and together with their teammates they made 20-2 run for 86-68 lead. Of course, question about the winner was resolved and last four minutes were just the formality.
In the next round, Lottomatica goes to Madrid. Charleroi waits Brose Baskets Bamberg.

Lottomatica: Darius Washington 27, Nihad Dedovic 16+5 boards, Ali Traore 12+5 boards
Charleroi: Joseph Gomis 19+5 boards, Brian Greene 13

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BENIN

2010 ACCM: Royal Hoopers beat Bauchi Nets twice - by Olusegun Ikuesan
As part of its preparation for the final round of the 2010 FIBA Africa Champions Cup for Men Nigeria DStv Premier League runner-up, Royal Hoopers basketball club was twice better than Bauchi Nets basketball club in a warm-up games played Wednesday and Thursday at the sports hall of the Bauchi Township Stadium.

The Coach Ogoh Odaudu tutored Hoopers who finished second behind Kano Pillars basketball club at the FIBA Africa Zone-3 Qualifiers in Liberia last month.

The team who is currently camping in Kaduna defeated Bauchi Nets by 73-65 points and 80-61 points respectively before returning to Kaduna Thursday evening to continue its build-up to Africa biggest club championship for Men slated for Cotonou, Benin Republic from December 9 through 19.

Coach Odaudu described the two wins over Bauchi Nets as a welcome development for the Port Harcourt-based Nigerian side who will playing at the continent for the first time as making its debut in the Nigeria DStv Premier League in 2009.
Michael Ohiero (191-G-88, college: Customs)

2010 ACCM - Kano Pillars eye Cup glory - by Olusegun Ikuesan
After placing fifth twice at the final round of the FIBA Africa Champions Cup for Men Nigeria DStv Premier League and FIBA Africa Zone-3 champion, Kano Pillars basketball club has set a target for itself in the final round of the 2010 edition of the champions cup holding in Cotonou, Benin Republic between December 9 to 19.

Pillars who recently shifted it camping to Kaduna has expressed it readiness to be a title contender when hostilities began next week.

Pillars Head Coach Sani Ahmed told www.fiba-afrique.org on telephone that the team is eyeing to play in the grand finale on December 19.

Our main objective at the moment is to fight for the African title and we know the task involve and we are prepared to give any team a run for their money and talents when the championship gets underway next week.

The players and the management of the team are tired of seeing us finishing fifth everytime and have all join force together to among the title contenders this time.

Primeiro de Agosto is the reigning Africa champion. Ibrahim Yusuf (196-G-89)

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BRUNEI

BRUNEI OUTCLASSED BY HONG KONG... - by Ozell Wells
THE national basketball team went down fighting 83-57 to a much stronger Hong Kong side for their second straight loss yesterday in Group B of the Third China-Asean Men's Basketball Invitational tournament at Pingguo County, Guangxi, China.

Ben Sim had the game-high to lead the national squad with 20 points and 14 rebounds for his double-double.

Marjomar Aying was the only other player in double figures with 10 points and filled up other sections of the stats sheet with seven rebounds and five steals before fouling out in the fourth quarter.

So Sheung Ying topscored for Hong Kong with 14 points and 14 rebounds to record a double-double while Au Yeung Ching Pong and Chan Siu Wing added 12 and 10 points respectively in the victory.

Brunei only managed to tie with Hong Kong 2-2 in the first minute of the opening quarter.

Hong Kong led throughout the match and the Sultanate came closest at 44-40 in the third quarter before their opponents called a timeout that killed the momentum.

Brunei were also not helped by foul trouble to their key players including their tallest player, 6ft 6in Zainul Ashyraf Hj Hussin, who contributed nine points and nine rebounds in the game, sitting out for much of the match.

The game ended with a buzzer-beating dunk with two seconds to go by Hong Kong's Lau Tung Leung that summed up the victory.

The biggest factor was that Brunei went nil from downtown missing all 12 of their attempts from behind the arc and playmaker Don Mordeno, who had seven points and five steals, suffered a deep cut to his right hand in the third period that slowed him down.

'The other team were just better than us. We were right there to get the match but we don't have the manpower to sustain it,' said Kevin Reece, the national basketball coach, during an interview with The Brunei Times, yesterday.

'We just try to do our best in these games. We have achieved more good points than bad especially that we're not turning the ball over that much and players know their roles,' added the 50-year-old.

'The players competed well but foul trouble really made it difficult for us to gain any momentum,' continued the American.

Reece was once again impressed with the defensive effort shown by the national cagers.

'It was excellent and it sort of gave our opponents a scare but they would manage to counter each time,' said Reece.

'In turn, it's good that we managed to break their press as well when they did it to us early in the third quarter,' added the Los Angeles native.

The national cagers will next face Vietnam tomorrow in their final group match.

courtesy of BRUNEI TIMES

BRUNEI NATIONAL TEAM DROP THE FIRST TO CHINA GUANGXI - by Ozell Wells
THE Brunei national team are hoping to bounce back from their opening game loss when they face off against Hong Kong today in Group B of the Third China-Asean Men's Basketball Invitational tournament at Pingguo County, Guangxi, China.

The national cagers suffered a 100-58 setback against hosts Guangxi in their opener on Tuesday night but Kevin Reece, the national basketball coach, is positive that the team are capable of capping a win against the Hong Kong side.

'Everyone on the China team was taller than us. Stats-wise we only had 10 turnovers and shot 80 per cent from the free throw line but we were outrebounded 51-32,' said Reece, during an interview with The Brunei Times, yesterday.

'I believe that we played good defence on them (Guangxi) but they were just too tall. It was a great experience for our players though,' added the LA Lakers fan.

'Our weakness has always been height and it's going to be another challenge for us. We'll need to get more transition points against Hong Kong,' continued the American.

Hong Kong's tallest player stands at 6ft 9in while the Sultanate's tallest cager is Zainul Ashyraf Hj Hussin, who is nursing a sprained ankle in the second quarter against Guangxi but has been deemed fit for the upcoming encounter, at 6ft 6in.

'We'll have to play good defence once again and I believe that we can compete against them and get our first win,' said Reece.

'The matchup probably won't be as tough as Guangxi so we'll have to go out there as usual to get stuffs done,' added the Los Angeles native.

In addition, Reece felt that the national cagers were made to feel right at home for the competition.

'I think that our team is popular with the public. There are those who are behind our team and supporting us. Brunei basketball is being represented well here,' said Reece.

The national team were also the only team that were invited to a friendly volleyball match with the township community of Matou, Pingguo County as part of extending friendship between both parties.

Four Filipinos from the Sultanate were suppose to travel with the team to compete but only two Don Mordeno and Marjomar Aying got on the plane to China.

The duo of Elvin Requintin and Geve Leones pulled out at the last minute due to personal reasons.

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CANADA

CIS Standings

CIS Standings

Atlantic
1. Cape Breton		7-0
2. Dalhousie		4-1
3. St.Francis X.		3-2
4. Acadia		3-3
5. New Brunsw.		3-3
6. St.Mary's		2-5
7. Memorial		1-5
8. UPEI		1-5
CanWest
1. UBC		10-2
2. Trinity West.		10-2
3. Manitoba		7-3
4. Saskatchewan		7-3
5. Victoria		7-5
6. Alberta		6-4
7. Regina		6-4
8. Brandon		4-6
9. UCFV		4-6
10. Calgary		3-7
11. Lethbridge		3-9
12. Winnipeg		1-9
13. Thompson R.		1-11
OUA East
1. Carleton		6-0
2. Toronto Univ.		5-2
3. York		3-5
4. Laurentian		2-4
5. Ottawa		2-4
6. Queen's		2-5
7. Ryerson		2-5
8. RMC		0-7
OUA West
1. Windsor		6-0
2. Laurier		6-1
3. Brock		5-3
4. Lakehead		4-2
5. Western		4-2
6. Waterloo		3-4
7. Guelph		2-4
8. McMaster		1-5
Quebec League
1. Laval		3-0
2. Concordia		3-1
3. McGill		3-1
4. UQAM		2-3
5. Bishop's		0-6

Raptors' Reggie Evans out two months with foot injury - by Eurobasket News
Toronto Raptors forward Reggie Evans (6'8''-F/C-80, college: Iowa) is expected to be out of action for eight weeks after having surgery on his broken right foot Wednesday. Evans suffered the injury last Friday night in Boston.

Evans is third in the NBA in rebounding, averaging 12.1 per game, including a career-high 22 against Philadelphia last Wednesday night. He has averaged 4.0 points in 27.3 minutes over 15 games this season.

Evans played in just 28 games last season after coming back from an ankle injury.

Courtesy of www.sportingnews.com

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CHILE

Boston College claims LNB title - by Emiliano
CD Boston College Santiago is LNB Champion for the edition 2010. The Chilean team defeated in the final, with the score of 90-69, Club Osorno Basquetbol. The game was played in Puente Alto Municipal Gym.
CD Boston College Santiago, coached by experienced trainer Patricio Miranda , was lead by Eduardo Sepulveda (186-G-86) who scored 22 points, followed by Erik Carrasco (181-G-83) who added 17 points.
'We are really happy for the final victory in the tournament' said an ecstatic Miranda, who arrived in the team in 2005 as assistant coach. 'For me it is something special because I am very tied to the team. I have to say thanks to the team which worked hard both in practices and in the games'.

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CROATIA

Bruno Sundov is back to Croatia - by Emiliano
Bruno Sundov

(221-C-80), after his one-month experience with Power Electronics Valencia, reached an agreement with KK Split. The giant, with NBA experience early in his career, scored 2 points in the only game played with the Spanish team this season.
Last year, he started in Ukraine with BC Donetsk scoring 6.1ppg and grabbing 4.5rpg in 8 games in the domestic league while in January he moved to Greece where he signed a contracti with Kavala/Panorama recording averages of 6.9ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 61.9%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT-1 (95.5%) in 14 games played in the league.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings

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

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DENMARK

Standings - Basketligaen

Ligaen Standings

1. Bakken		13-1
2. Svendborg		12-1
3. Naestved		9-5
4. Aabyhoj		7-7
5. SISU		7-7
6. Horsens IC		6-7
7. Horsholm		5-5
8. Vaerlose		4-9
9. Amager BK		3-11
10. Aalborg		0-13

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Nerijus BRASAS
  Amager BK
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 22.8

1. Brasas, Amager BK	22.8
2. Soltau, SISU	22.7
3. Johnson, Bakken	21.6
4. Morris, Aabyhoj	21.3
5. Colas, Vaerlose	20.5
6. Roberts, Naestved	20.3
7. Iversen, Svendborg	18.6
8. Claitt, Horsens IC	18.5
9. Dennis, SISU	16.8
10. McGinn, Aalborg	16.0

Rebounds Per Game

Lee ROBERTS
  Naestved
  (201-F/C-87)
  Avg: 12.3

1. Roberts, Naestved	12.3
2. St.John, Horsens IC	11.0
3. Morris, Aabyhoj	10.2
4. Johansen, Naestved	9.7
5. Falkner, Aalborg	9.1
6. Colas, Vaerlose	9.0
7. Soltau, SISU	8.2
8. Williams, Svendborg	7.6
9. Blackmon, Horsholm	7.3
10. Johnson, Bakken	7.1

Assists Per Game

D.J. SMEDLEY
  Naestved
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Smedley, Naestved	6.4
2. Claitt, Horsens IC	5.9
3. Martin, Aabyhoj	5.1
4. Dennis, SISU	4.8
5. Darboe, Svendborg	4.2
6. Burgess, Bakken	4.1
7. Kristiansen, Aalborg	3.5
8. McFarlane, Vaerl.	3.3
9. Dalboge, Aabyhoj	3.3
10. Alili, Vaerlose	3.2

Steals Per Game

Mickey DENNIS
  SISU
  (190-G/F-78)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Dennis, SISU	2.5
2. Nielsen, Horsholm	2.4
3. Smedley, Naestved	2.3
4. Kristiansen, Aalborg	2.2
5. Burgess, Bakken	2.1
6. Roberts, Naestved	2.1
7. Morris, Aabyhoj	1.9
8. Colman, Svendborg	1.8
9. Martin, Aabyhoj	1.8
10. Iversen, Svendborg	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Edward MORRIS
  Aabyhoj
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Morris, Aabyhoj	2.6
2. Blackmon, Horsholm	2.0
3. Roberts, Naestved	1.1
4. Marinkovic, Horsholm	1.0
5. Colas, Vaerlose	1.0
6. Christoffers., Bak.	1.0
7. Brown, SISU	0.9
8. St.John, Horsens IC	0.8
9. McGinn, Aalborg	0.8
10. Johnson, Bakken	0.8

Danish Ligaen round 13 best performance: Bonell Colas - by Eurobasket News
American forward Bonell Colas (206-F-82) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Vaerlose BBK, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 28-year old player was the main contributor (31 points, seven rebounds and two assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush SISU (#5, 7-7) with 19-point margin 93-74. Vaerlose maintains the 8th position in Danish Ligaen. Vaerlose is rather weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 4-9 record. In the team's last game Colas had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Vaerlose's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Florida star has very solid stats this year. Colas is in league's top in points (5th best: 20.5ppg), rebounds (6th best: 9.0rpg) and averages impressive 58.3% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old former international forward Thomas Soltau (210-F-82, agency: Court Side) of SISU Copenhagen. Soltau had a very good evening with a double-double of 27 points and 17 rebounds. Bad luck as SISU lost that game 74-93 to the lower-ranked Vaerlose (#8, 4-9). SISU managed to keep the same 5th spot in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 7-7 record is not bad and everything may still change. Soltau is well-known at SISU and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 22.7ppg (#2). He also registered 8.2 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Edward Morris (203-F-84) of Aabyhoj IF (#4). Morris scored 27 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). Despite Morris' great performance Aabyhoj lost 71-83 to slightly lower-ranked Horsens IC (#6, 6-7). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Aabyhoj needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 7 victories and 7 lost games. Morris has a great season in Denmark. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.3ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 10.2rpg (3rd best). He also has 2.6bpg and FGP: 66.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Charles Burgess (186-G-84) of Bakken - 27 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Barkley Falkner (203-F/C-86) of Aalborg - 20 points and 14 rebounds
6. Mads Rasmussen (191-F-86) of Vaerlose - 24 points
7. Mike St.John (203-F/C-84) of Horsens IC - 21 points and 10 rebounds
8. D.J. Smedley (180-G-84) of Naestved - 14 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists
9. Nerijus Brasas (200-F-85) of Amager BK - 27 points and 10 rebounds
10. Adama Darboe (190-G-86) of Svendborg - 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, 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) - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Ligaen Round 13: SISU loses to Vaerlose in the biggest upset of the week - by Eurobasket News
Ligaen is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 13 rounds left. The most shocking disappointment of round 13 in the Ligaen was road a defeat of 5th ranked SISU by eighth ranked Vaerlose who outscored them by 19 points 74-93. American forward Bonell Colas (206-F-82, college: Florida) (206-82, college: Florida) stepped up and scored 31 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) chipped in 24 points. Vaerlose's coach Jonas Sorensen used entire bench which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side the former international forward Thomas Soltau (210-82, college: Northwestern, agent: Side Court) responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 17 rebounds. Despite the victory Vaerlose (4-9) stay at eighth position. SISU who has 7-7 is currently in fourth place as they suffered their seventh loss. Vaerlose is looking forward to face league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SISU will play at home against Naestved and is hoping to win this game.
Aabyhoj (#4) was upset in Aabyhoj by seventh ranked Horsens IC 71-83 ending at the same time the series of two consecutive victories of Aabyhoj. American power forward Mike St.John (203-84, college: La Salle) nailed a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side and Rickey Claitt accounted for 15 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. American forward Edward Morris (203-84, college: Pittsburg St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 12 rebounds for Aabyhoj in the defeat. The victory allowed Horsens IC (6-7) to climb to sixth place. Aabyhoj who is 7-7 is currently in fourth position as they suffered their seventh loss. Horsens IC's will play against higher ranked Horsholm on the road in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Horsholm (#7) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Second-ranked Svendborg had no problems in a home game against Horsholm (#7). Svendborg (12-1) outscored Horsholm (5-5) with a record 24 points 80-56. Adama Darboe fired 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Philip Hertz produced 14 points for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Despite the victory current champion Svendborg stay at second position having just victory less than leader Bakken. Horsholm who is 5-5 is currently in seventh place as they suffered their fifth loss. Svendborg will meet Amager BK (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Horsholm will play against Horsens IC and hope to secure a win.
League top team - Bakken (13-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat tenth ranked Aalborg in Aarhus 76-63. Worth to mention a great performance of Charles Burgess who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. Bakken stay at first position. Thirteenth consecutive loss means that Aalborg is still at the bottom of the standings. Bakken's opponent will be Vaerlose (#8) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Aalborg will play against Horsens IC and hopes to get finally their first victory.

In the last game of round 13 Naestved won against Amager BK on the opponent's court 90-75.

Svendborg - Horsholm 80-56
Second-ranked Svendborg had no problems in a home game against Horsholm (#7). Svendborg (12-1) outscored Horsholm (5-5) with a record 24 points 80-56. International guard Adama Darboe (190-86, agent: Kim Rasmussen) fired 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American forward Matt Williams (200-77, college: Montana) chipped in 16 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Philip Hertz (194-92) produced 14 points and forward Jonathan Gilling (203-91) added 9 points 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 and allowed the starting five to rest. Despite the victory current champion Svendborg stay at second position having just victory less than leader Bakken. Horsholm who is 5-5 is currently in seventh place as they suffered their fifth loss. Svendborg will meet Amager BK (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Horsholm will play against Horsens IC and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: P.Hertz 14+3reb, J.Hakanowitz 11+5reb, D.Balaton 9+1ast, J.Gilling 9+3reb+4ast, A.Bak 5+2reb+1ast, B.Blackmon 3+9reb+1ast
Svendborg: M.Williams 16+7reb, A.Darboe 15+5reb+5ast, N.Iversen 13+3reb+3ast, C.Magaard 12+7reb+2ast, C.Cavanaugh 10+1reb, N.Degn-Andersen 5

Vaerlose - SISU 93-74
The most shocking disappointment of round 13 in the Ligaen was road a defeat of 5th ranked SISU by eighth ranked Vaerlose who outscored them by 19 points 74-93. American forward Bonell Colas (206-82, college: Florida) stepped up and scored 31 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) chipped in 24 points. Vaerlose's coach Jonas Sorensen used entire bench which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side the former international forward Thomas Soltau (210-82, college: Northwestern, agent: Side Court) responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 17 rebounds and American swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) scored 24 points and 4 assists. Despite the victory Vaerlose (4-9) stay at eighth position. SISU who has 7-7 is currently in fourth place as they suffered their seventh loss. Vaerlose is looking forward to face league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SISU will play at home against Naestved and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
SISU Copenhagen: T.Soltau 27+17reb+3ast, M.Dennis 24+2reb+4ast, D.Harder 9+7reb+5ast, D.Rutherford 6+5reb+3ast, M.Brown 4+2reb, O.Bonde 2
Vaerlose BBK: B.Colas 31+7reb+2ast, M.Rasmussen 24+1ast, P.Ba 12+6reb+1ast, J.McFarlane 9+2ast, A.Alili 6+1reb+4ast, A.Karason 5+4reb+3ast

Amager BK - Naestved 75-90
Very expected game in Kastrup where 9th ranked Amager BK (3-11) was defeated by third ranked Naestved (9-5) 90-75. American guard D.J. Smedley (180-84, college: Ill.-Chicago) stepped up and scored 14 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and his fellow American import power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay (OH)) chipped in 19 points and 8 rebounds. At the losing side Lithuanian forward Nerijus Brasas (200-85) responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 10 rebounds and swingman Peter Simonsen (185-88) scored 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Naestved (9-5) has a solid series of three victories in a row comparing to four consecutive losses by Amager BK. Despite the win Naestved stay at third position having just eight points less than leader Bakken. Amager BK who is 3-11 is currently in ninth place. Naestved is looking forward to face SISU (#5) in Copenhagen in the next round. Amager BK will play on the road against the league's second-placed Svendborg (#2) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
Top scorers:
BK Amager: N.Brasas 27+10reb+1ast, E.Frost 14+3reb+5ast, P.Simonsen 13+6reb+4ast, R.Larsen 11+3reb+5ast, N.Miliares 7+2reb, M.Lingskov 2+8reb
Team FOG Naestved: L.Roberts 19+8reb, M.Kasiulevicius 16+4reb+2ast, D.Smedley 14+9reb+7ast, L.Hoirup 11+4reb, P.Johansen 10+14reb+1ast, N.Christensen 9+1reb+2ast

Bakken - Aalborg 76-63
League top team - Bakken (13-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat tenth ranked Aalborg in Aarhus 76-63. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-84, college: Texas Tech) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. Bulgarian forward Hristo Petkov (200-85, college: Campbellsville) contributed with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. American power forward Barkley Falkner (203-86, college: Sam Houston St., agent: Alexander Ihler) answered with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 14 rebounds and forward Soren Sorensen (196-88) added 11 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Aalborg. Bakken (13-1) have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row comparing to thirteen consecutive losses by Aalborg. Bakken stay at first position. Thirteenth consecutive loss means that Aalborg is still at the bottom of the standings. Bakken's opponent will be Vaerlose (#8) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Aalborg will play against Horsens IC and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Aalborg: B.Falkner 20+14reb+1ast, S.Sorensen 11+8reb, H.Falsvig 10+3reb+1ast, T.McGinn 8+7reb+1ast, L.Kristiansen 6+3reb+3ast, S.Hansen 3+1reb
Bakken: C.Burgess 27+14reb+4ast, H.Petkov 17+12reb, S.Krath 7+3reb+2ast, M.Thuesen 7+7reb+5ast, P.Linnet 6+2reb+2ast, C.Nielsen 6+1reb+1ast

Aabyhoj - Horsens IC 71-83
Aabyhoj (#4) was upset in Aabyhoj by seventh ranked Horsens IC 71-83 ending at the same time the series of two consecutive victories of Aabyhoj. American power forward Mike St.John (203-84, college: La Salle) nailed a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Rickey Claitt (188-81, college: Oregon St.) accounted for 15 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. St.John is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American forward Edward Morris (203-84, college: Pittsburg St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 12 rebounds and British-American guard Anthony Martin (186-80) added 18 points and 6 assists respectively for Aabyhoj in the defeat. The victory allowed Horsens IC (6-7) to climb to sixth place. Aabyhoj who is 7-7 is currently in fourth position as they suffered their seventh loss. Horsens IC's will play against higher ranked Horsholm on the road in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Horsholm (#7) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Aabyhoj IF: E.Morris 27+12reb+1ast, A.Martin 18+3reb+6ast, D.Jukic 10+4reb+3ast, R.Laier 6+1reb, J.Rekola 5+3reb, R.Dalboge 3+1reb+5ast
Horsens IC: M.St.John 21+10reb+1ast, R.Claitt 15+6reb+9ast, H.Schur 15+6reb+2ast, A.Madsen 9+2reb+4ast, C.Lindberg 9+2reb, M.Sahlertz 7+1reb+3ast

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D-LEAGUE

(6'7''-G/F-83, college: ORU) and Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) each with 18, and Cole Aldrich posted eight points, 10 rebounds and four blocks. Tulsa's Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) recorded a double-double in his first game of the season after sitting out the first four due to injury, posting 13 points and 12 rebounds. Tweety Carter and Elijah Millsap each chipped in 10 points. 'I thought our guys played with great effort and energy from the beginning,' Tulsa 66ers head coach Nate Tibbetts said. 'We've been giving up 107 points a game defensively and one of our goals tonight was to try to hold them under 100 and our guys really stepped up and did that.' The 66ers (3-2) recorded 19 assists on 34 made field goals. Tulsa guard Zabian Dowdell posted seven assists, a game high. Austin's (3-3) Marcus Cousin led the Toros with a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Also scoring in double figures was Vernon Hamilton with 18, Lewis Clinch with 14 and Thomas Gardner with 10. The 66ers held the Toros to 35 percent (31-89) shooting from the field, forced 20 turnovers and posted nine steals. Tulsa led 46-33 at halftime after holding the Toros to 13-44 (.295) shooting from the field. Austin, who trailed by as many as 19 in the third quarter, climbed back into the game at the conclusion of the third to cut the 66ers lead to five, 66-61. Next up, the 66ers hit the road to take on the Texas Legends on Saturday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Tulsa's next home game is Sunday, Dec. 5 against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at 4 p.m. inside the Tulsa Convention Center. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Standings

D-League Standings

Central Division
1. Iowa E.		5-1
2. Erie Bay H.		3-1
3. Ft.Wayne MA		2-2
4. Sioux Falls S.		1-4
5. Dakota W.		1-4
Southwest Division
1. Texas L.		3-1
2. Tulsa 66ers		3-2
3. Austin T.		3-3
4. New Mexico		2-1
5. Maine RC		2-3
6. Rio Grande		1-2
West Division
1. Reno Bighorns		5-0
2. Springfield A.		3-2
3. Utah F.		2-3
4. Bakersfield J.		1-4
5. Idaho S.		0-4

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Alan ANDERSON
  New Mexico
  (198-G/F-82)
  Avg: 29.3

1. Anderson, New M.	29.3
2. Johnson, Bakersfi.	25.0
3. Reynolds, Spring.	23.8
4. Edwards, New M.	22.7
5. Jeffers, Iowa E.	22.0
6. Major, Dakota W.	22.0
7. Ingram, Utah F.	21.8
8. Alexander, Texas L.	21.0
9. Ewing, Reno B.	20.8
10. Johnson, Dakota W.	20.6

Rebounds Per Game

Anthony RICHARDSON
  New Mexico
  (201-F-83)
  Avg: 13.7

1. Richardson, New M.	13.7
2. Alexander, Texas L.	11.7
3. Fazekas, Reno B.	10.4
4. Harris, Maine RC	10.2
5. Wallace, Bakersfi.	9.8
6. Sims, Iowa E.	9.3
7. Sharpe, Idaho S.	9.3
8. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	9.3
9. Ewing, Reno B.	9.0
10. Sims, Maine RC	9.0

Assists Per Game

Aaron MILES
  Reno Bighorns
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Miles, Reno Bighorns	10.8
2. Stinson, Iowa E.	8.2
3. Daniels, Texas L.	7.3
4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	7.0
5. Jackson, Idaho S.	6.3
6. Smith, Maine RC	6.2
7. Johnson, Austin T.	5.7
8. Kruger, Utah F.	5.6
9. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers	5.6
10. Cooper, Dakota W.	5.3

Steals Per Game

Zabian DOWDELL
  Tulsa 66ers
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers	3.4
2. Blakely, Bakersfi.	2.8
3. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	2.8
4. Jeffers, Iowa E.	2.5
5. Wilmont, Ft.Wayne.	2.3
6. McCray, Sioux F.	2.3
7. Reynolds, Spring.	2.2
8. Ewing, Reno B.	2.2
9. Rolle, Maine RC	2.0
10. Shakur, Rio Grande	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Solomon ALABI
  Erie Bay H.
  (216-C-88)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Alabi, Erie Bay H.	3.8
2. Rolle, Maine RC	3.5
3. Davis, Erie Bay H.	3.0
4. Williams, Texas L.	3.0
5. Johnson, Dakota W.	2.8
6. Sykes, Sioux F.	2.8
7. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	2.3
8. Eyenga, Erie Bay H.	2.0
9. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers	2.0
10. Goodridge, Spring.	2.0

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EBA

Agent Exposure Tryout - by EBA Media
The Washington Madness in conjunction with Capitol Elite Academy will be hosting the Agent Exposure Tryout, which will take place this Saturday December 4th, 2010 in Washington D.C. This open tryout event will allow for professional basketball players to perform their talents in front of many of the areas top sports agents with client representation in the NBA as well as overseas.

In addition to agents, there will also be several top professional players participating with NBA and overseas experience. The Agent Exposure Tryout will also allow players to display their unique skills in front of EBA coaches of the Washington Madness and other professional basketball scouts.

If you are interested in the event please take note of the information below. Any questions contact Matthew Smith at: msmith@capitolelite.org. ONLY SERIOUS BALLERS NEED TO ATTEND!

Date: Saturday December 4th, 2010
Registration Starts: 11:00 A.M.11:30 A.M.
Games Start: 11:45 A.M.
Player Registration Fee: $75.00
Organizers: Matthew Smith, Larry Bowden, Hanif Hill
Contact: Matthew Smith msmith@capitolelite.org

Tryout for Washington Madness
Professional Team and Professional Sports
Agents with NBA and Overseas Client Representation
Loughran Recreation Center 2500 14th Street NW
Washington D.C

Stats Leaders

EBA Stats Leaders

Standings

EBA Standings

Northern Conference
rthern Div.
1. New York W.		2-0
2. Destroyers		1-0
3. South Jersey E.		1-0
4. Harrisburg H.		0-0
5. Hudson V.H.		0-2
6. North Jersey P.		0-2
Southern Conference
uthern Div.
1. Old Domin. M.		2-0
2. Carolina G.		0-0
3. M. All-Stars		0-0
4. NoVa H.		0-0
5. Washington M.		0-0
6. Winchester S.		0-0
7. Portsmouth C.		0-2

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

EGYPT

Superleague Standings

Superleague Standings

Group A
1. Al Ittihad		8-1
2. Zamalek		7-2
3. Gasco		5-4
4. Sporting		4-5
5. Shorta-Police		2-7
6. Al Dhan		1-8
Group B
1. Ahly		7-2
2. Somouha		6-3
3. Gezira		5-4
4. Al-Intaj		4-5
5. Geish Army		2-7
6. Shams		2-7

Superleague Round 9: Zamalek hands first defeat to Al Ittihad - by Eurobasket News
The biggest surprise of 9th round was when Zamalek handed the first loss to the leader. It also means that the series of four victories in a row of Al Ittihad ended. It was a key game for the second position in group A. Zamalek (7-2) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place in group A. Al Ittihad still keep top position with one game lost. Zamalek is looking forward to face Al Dhan (#6) in the next round. Al Ittihad will play against Sporting (#4) and is hoping to win this game.
Another exciting game was between Gezira and Ahly when the hosts won 67:62. It also means that the series of four victories in a row of Ahly ended. Gezira maintains third place in group B having just two points less than leader Ahly. Ahly still keep top position with two games lost. Gezira's will play against league's second-placed Somouha in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ahly will play against Shams and hope to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game Geish Army lost their third straight game in a row. Somouha maintains second place in group B with 6-3 record having just one point less than leader Ahly. Geish Army dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Shams. Somouha will meet at home Gezira (#3) in the next round. Geish Army will play against Al-Intaj and hope to secure a win.

Other games of round 9 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
In Group A Sporting crushed Shorta-Police in a road game 95-75. Gasco smashed Al Dhan at home 78-70.
In Group B Shams was destroyed by Al-Intaj on the opponent's court 70-55.

Group A

Shorta-Police - Sporting 75-95

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 4th placed Shorta-Police (2-7) was crushed by fifth ranked Sporting (4-5) 95-75. Sporting (4-5) has a solid series of three victories in a row comparing to three consecutive losses by Shorta-Police. Thanks to that win Sporting moved-up to fourth place in group A. Shorta-Police dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost. Sporting is looking forward to face league's leader Al Ittihad in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Shorta-Police will play against Gasco (#3) and is hoping to win this game.

Gasco - Al Dhan 78-70

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Gasco (5-4) defeated 6th ranked Al Dhan (1-8) 78-70. Gasco maintains third place in group A having just two points less than leader Al Ittihad. Al Dhan keeps the sixth place with eight games lost. Gasco is looking forward to face Shorta-Police (#5) in the next round. Al Dhan will play against the league's second-placed Zamalek and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.

Al Ittihad - Zamalek 100-102

The biggest surprise of 9th round was when Zamalek handed the first loss to the leader. It also means that the series of four victories in a row of Al Ittihad ended. It was a key game for the second position in group A. Zamalek (7-2) have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place in group A. Al Ittihad still keep top position with one game lost. Zamalek is looking forward to face Al Dhan (#6) in the next round. Al Ittihad will play against Sporting (#4) and is hoping to win this game.

Group B

Al-Intaj - Shams 70-55

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 6th ranked Shams' (2-7) road loss to fifth ranked Al-Intaj (4-5) 55-70. Shams lost their third straight game in a row. Thanks to that win Al-Intaj moved-up to fourth place in group B. Shams dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Geish Army. Al-Intaj is looking forward to face Geish Army (#5) in the next round. Shams will play against the league's new leader Ahly and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.

Gezira - Ahly 67-62

Another exciting game was between Gezira and Ahly when the hosts won 67:62. It also means that the series of four victories in a row of Ahly ended. Gezira maintains third place in group B having just two points less than leader Ahly. Ahly still keep top position with two games lost. Gezira's will play against league's second-placed Somouha in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ahly will play against Shams and hope to get back on the winning track.

Geish Army - Somouha 46-77

An interesting game Geish Army lost their third straight game in a row. Somouha maintains second place in group B with 6-3 record having just one point less than leader Ahly. Geish Army dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Shams. Somouha will meet at home Gezira (#3) in the next round. Geish Army will play against Al-Intaj and hope to secure a win.

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EUROCUP

VEF Riga released Willjam and Grafs - by Emiliano
VEF Riga officially announced the release of Latvian International player Raitis Grafs

(208-C-81, college: Valparaiso) and American guard Derek Willjam

EUROLEAGUE

Round 7 best performance: Sofoklis Schortsanitis - by Eurobasket News
Greek center Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Maccabi T-A, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7.
The 25-year old player was the main contributor (22 points, six rebounds and three assists) to his team's victory, helping them to edge out Zalgiris on the road (4-3) 71-68. With this victory Maccabi already qualified for Top 16, despite there are three more rounds to be played at this stage. Maccabi T-A has almost perfect 6-1 record in Group A. Schortsanitis turned to be Maccabi T-A's top player in his first season with the team. Sofoklis Schortsanitis averages this season 12.9ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American/FYR Macedonian Darius Washington (188-G-85) of Lottomatica Virtus Roma. Washington had a very good evening with 27 points and 4 rebounds. His Lottomatica cruised to a 95-83 relatively comfortable win over Charleroi (2-5). Lottomatica has 4-3 record in Group B, same as Real Madrid and Unicaja. Washington is a newcomer at Lottomatica, but is already the team's top player.

Third on the list of top players last round was American swingman Keith Langford (193-G/F-83) of BC Khimky Moscow Region. Langford scored 22 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was a key player of Khimky, leading his team to a 92-65 easy win against Partizan. Langford has a great season in Euroleague so far. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.2ppg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Bo Lester McCalebb (183-G-85) of Montepaschi - 15 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) of Khimky - 16 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Tarence Kinsey (200-G-84) of Fener.Ulker - 20 points and 5 rebounds
7. Roko-Leni Ukic (195-G-84) of Fener.Ulker - 17 points and 4 assists
8. Dmitry Sokolov (212-C-85) of CSKA - 17 points and 8 rebounds
9. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) of Unicaja - 15 points and 10 rebounds
10. Doron Perkins (188-G-83) of Maccabi T-A - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, 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) - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Angel D. VASSALLO
  ASVEL
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 21

1. Vassallo, AS.	21.0
2. Macvan, Hemofarm	20.8
3. Lampe, Unics	19.5
4. Bogdanovic, Cibona	18.6
5. Jenkins, ALBA	16.8
6. Langford, Khimky	16.2
7. Allen, ALBA	15.8
8. Rakocevic, Efes P.	15.6
9. McCalebb, Montepas.	15.4
10. Barac, Caja Laboral	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

Paulius JANKUNAS
  Zalgiris
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 8.3

1. Jankunas, Zalgiris	8.3
2. Barac, Caja Laboral	7.6
3. Bourousis, Olympiakos	7.4
4. Jefferson, AS.	7.3
5. Gist, Partizan	7.2
6. Tomic, Real Madrid	7.0
7. Zizic, AS.	7.0
8. Falker, Cholet	7.0
9. Freeland, Unicaja	6.9
10. Pleiss, Brose B.	6.6

Assists Per Game

Marko POPOVIC
  Unics
  (185-G-82)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Popovic, Unics	5.5
2. Huertas, Caja L.	5.3
3. Teodosic, Olympiakos	5.1
4. Spanoulis, Olympiakos	4.9
5. Hammonds, AS.	4.8
6. Eidson, Maccabi .	4.6
7. Stipcevic, Cibona	4.5
8. Diamantidis, Panath.	4.4
9. Rodriguez, Unicaja	4.4
10. Pellin, Le Mans	4.2

Steals Per Game

Chuck EIDSON
  Maccabi T-A
  (201-F/G-80)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Eidson, Maccabi .	3.4
2. McCalebb, Montepas.	2.9
3. Perkins, Maccabi .	2.4
4. Diot, Le Mans	2.2
5. Diamantidis, Panath.	2.0
6. Rubio, Regal Barca	1.9
7. Hawkins, Armani MI	1.9
8. Goldsberry, Brose B.	1.8
9. De Colo, Valencia	1.8
10. Stonerook, Montepas.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Mirza BEGIC
  Zalgiris
  (216-C-85)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Begic, Zalgiris	2.4
2. Riddick, Charleroi	1.9
3. Barac, Caja Laboral	1.7
4. Pleiss, Brose B.	1.6
5. Falker, Cholet	1.5
6. Eze, Khimky	1.4
7. Fischer, Real Madrid	1.3
8. Bozovic, Hemofarm	1.3
9. Macvan, Hemofarm	1.3
10. Bourousis, Olympiakos	1.3

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

FRANCE

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

1. Gravelines		6-2
2. Roanne		6-2
3. Cholet		6-2
4. Nancy		6-3
5. Chalon		6-3
6. Hyeres-Toulon		5-3
7. Le Havre		4-4
8. Orleans		4-4
9. ASVEL		4-4
10. Paris-Levallois		4-4
11. Limoges		3-5
12. Strasbourg		3-5
13. Pau-Lacq-Orthez		3-5
14. Le Mans		2-6
15. Poitierarleys		2-6
16. Vichy		1-7

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

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

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 18

1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	18.0
2. King, Le Havre	17.1
3. Mejia, Cholet	17.1
4. Darden, Nancy	17.1
5. Bell, Orleans	16.4
6. Massie, Limoges	16.1
7. Amagou, Roanne	16.1
8. Bokolo, Gravelines	15.9
9. Haynes, Chalon	15.8
10. Jefferson, AS.	15.8

Rebounds Per Game

Rob LEWIN
  Vichy
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 11

1. Lewin, Vichy	11.0
2. Massie, Limoges	10.4
3. Jones, Le Havre	9.1
4. Krupalija, Hyeres.	8.6
5. Issa, Gravelines	8.5
6. Akingbala, Nancy	8.5
7. Koffi, Le Mans	8.4
8. Walsh, AS.	8.3
9. Jefferson, AS.	8.0
10. Elegar, Vichy	7.8

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Vichy
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Reid, Vichy	6.6
2. Diabate, Roanne	6.3
3. Linehan, Nancy	6.1
4. King, Le Havre	5.9
5. Sciarra, Pau-La.	5.6
6. Wright, Limoges	5.6
7. Woodside, Gravelines	5.5
8. Pellin, Le Mans	5.3
9. Albicy, Paris-Le.	4.6
10. Tchicamboud, Cha.	4.6

Steals Per Game

John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Linehan, Nancy	3.9
2. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.	3.0
3. Walsh, AS.	2.8
4. Diabate, Roanne	2.3
5. Dewar, Le Mans	2.1
6. Bennett, Pau-La.	2.0
7. Causeur, Cholet	2.0
8. Sangare, Le Havre	1.9
9. Albicy, Paris-Le.	1.9
10. Diot, Le Mans	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Frank ELEGAR
  Vichy
  (206-C-86)
  Avg: 2

1. Elegar, Vichy	2.0
2. Jefferson, AS.	1.5
3. Pasco, Strasbourg	1.5
4. Koffi, Le Mans	1.5
5. Fofana, AS.	1.4
6. Akpomedah, Grave.	1.4
7. Badiane, Poitiera.	1.1
8. Dunn, Roanne	1.1
9. Vebobe, Cholet	1.0
10. Lewin, Vichy	1.0

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Andre HARRIS
  Lille
  (201-F/C-85)
  Avg: 18.1

1. Harris, Lille	18.1
2. Gay, Fos Ouest	17.8
3. Runkaukas, Quimper	16.8
4. Daniels, Nanterre	16.7
5. Carter, Nanterre	16.6
6. Sonko, Maurienne	16.6
7. Bouldin, Clermont	16.4
8. Siggers, Rouen	16.4
9. Reed, Evreux	16.4
10. Sneed, Maurienne	16.3

Rebounds Per Game

Korvotney BARBER
  Nantes
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Barber, Nantes	10.8
2. Bing, Dijon	9.2
3. Giles, Rouen	9.1
4. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.8
5. Monroe, Boulogne	8.5
6. Monds, Bourg	8.0
7. Campbell, Le Portel	8.0
8. Sneed, Maurienne	7.9
9. Rouse, Charleville	7.8
10. Massot, Antibes	7.6

Assists Per Game

Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Da Silva, Evreux	7.9
2. Downey, Nantes	5.9
3. Taylor, Rouen	5.4
4. Ingram, Antibes	5.3
5. Denave, St Vallier	5.1
6. Williams, Le Portel	5.1
7. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.1
8. Craven, Dijon	4.8
9. Shiloh, St Vallier	4.4
10. McIntosh, Boulazac	4.4

Steals Per Game

Errick CRAVEN
  Dijon
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Craven, Dijon	2.8
2. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.8
3. Daniels, Chalons-.	2.6
4. Riley, Nanterre	2.6
5. Doyne, Charleville	2.6
6. Da Silva, Evreux	2.6
7. Harris, Lille	2.5
8. Darnauzan, Mauri.	2.4
9. Hachad, Fos Ouest	2.4
10. Sonko, Maurienne	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.9
2. Jefferson, Quimper	1.7
3. Barber, Nantes	1.5
4. N''Diaye, Clermont	1.1
5. Diakite, Chalons-.	1.0
6. Adjiwanou, Boula.	1.0
7. Monds, Bourg	1.0
8. McKenzie, Boulazac	0.8
9. Bouldin, Clermont	0.8
10. James, Bourg	0.8

Regal Barca too strong for Cholet once again - by Eurobasket News
Regal Barca - Cholet 76-62

Regal Barca outplayed Cholet for the second time this season. The reigning Euroleague champion celebrated 76-62 home victory improving to 5-2 record in Group C. Of course, Barca already qualified for Top 16. Their leading player in this game was Boniface Ndong

(213-C-77) with 15 points and 6 rebounds. Kosta Perovic

(217-C-85) and Erazem Lorbek

(209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) scored 13 and 11 points respectively. In Cholet (3-4), DeMarcus Nelson

(193-G-85, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Duke) delivered 14 points and Christophe Leonard (199-F-90) had 9 pts, plus 6 boards.
Cholet surprised Barca in the first quarter taking 9-15 lead after seven minutes. The hosts woke up immediately and replied with 9-3 run, before Vule Avdalovic closed the first period with impossible three, 18-20. Barca took control on Cholet in the second frame and after 11-1 run they jumped to 29-23. Boniface Ndong and his teammates scored 15 more points until the end of the first half, while Cholet was limited to 5 (44-28, HT). Cholet was trying to mount a comeback in Q3, but all they managed to do was 44-37. Barca answered with 17-7 until the end of Q3 for comfortable 61-44 lead with 10:00 to go. Last quarter was just the formality and Barca had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. They even reached plus 20 at the beginning of Q4.
In the next round, Barca will meet Fenerbahce Ulker on the road. Cholet will play against Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius.

Regal Barca: Boniface Ndong 15+6 boards, Kosta Perovic 13, Erazem Lorbek 11
Cholet: DeMarcus Nelson 14, Christophe Leonard 9+6 boards

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

GERMANY

Olympiakos blasts Brose Baskets, stays on top of Group B - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos - Brose Baskets 86-69

Olympiakos blasted Brose Baskets 86-69 staying on top of Group B with 5-2 record. Real Madrid faced with loss against Unicaja meaning that the Reds are alone on the first place now. Loukas Mavrokefalides

(207-C-84) (8 rebs) and Vassilis Spanoulis

(193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points each for the winners, while Ioannis Bourousis

(212-C-83, agency: FCM) added 12 points and 12 boards. In Brose Baskets (2-5), Tibor Pleiss

(214-F/C-89) collected 16 points and 9 rebounds. Kyle Hines

(198-F/C-86) registered double-double of 15 points and 10 boards.
Teams were totally leveled in the first quarter, which ended with 18-18 tie. Than in the second period the Greek giant took control on Brose Baskets, what resulted with 16-7 run after five minutes in Q2. The hosts continued in the same rhythm and they scored 14 more points for rest of the period, while limiting their rivals to 9. Thus, after 20 minutes of play Olympiakos held comfortable 48-34. The Reds were in charge during the entire Q3, which they ended with 18-17 for plus 15 before the last ten minutes. Olympiakos reached 71-53 at the beginning of Q4 and it was clear who the winner of the night will be. The hosts ended last period with 20-18 for the final 86-69 victory against the team who beat them in their first meeting in Germany.
In the next round, Olympiakos goes to Malaga. Brose Baskets will meet Charleroi on the road.

Olympiakos: Loukas Mavrokefalides 16+8 boards, Vassilis Spanoulis 16, Ioannis Bourousis 12+12 boards
Brose Baskets: Tibor Pleiss 16+9 boards, Kyle Hines 15+10 boards

Travis Walton (Ratiopharm Ulm) Pregame Thoughts To Telekom Baskets Bonn Game December 4th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Travis Walton

(188-G-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Michigan St.) is a 23 year old 187cm point guard from Lima, Ohio. He is playing his first season with Ratiopharm Ulm. He played at Michigan State from 2005-2009 where he served as team captain for three consecutive years, being the 3rd in history of Michigan State school to do that. Led the Big 10 in assist to turnover ratio 2.4 to 1 and broke Magic Johnson's career assist record at Michigan State. Walton possesses great toughness, strength and leadership skills and is an exceptional defender. Last season he played shortly for Lugano Tigers (Switzerland-LNA, starting five), left in Dec.'09: 13 games: 8.9ppg, 1.2rpg, Assists-5 (4.9apg), 1.5spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 85.7% before returning back to Michigan State to help the coaching staff. Some achievements that he has received were Big Ten Tournament Semifinals -06, 08, 09, Big Ten All-Defensive Team -07, 09, NCAA Sweet 16 -08, Big Ten Regular Season Champion -09, and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year -09. He spoke to eurobasket before the home game against The Telekom Baskets Bonn on December 4th.

How quickly did Ratiopharm Ulm digest the 85-79 loss in Trier?

Its basketball. You win some and you lose some but the next day you have to move forward and prepare for the next team.

The next game is against The Telekom Baskets Bonn. What has been your impression of the team so far this season?

They are very good team with some good players.

Bonn is very talented, but has been struggling this season. How dangerous is it playing against a talented team that is just dying to break out?

Its tough because I think we both have had some tough loses but you can see the talent in both teams.it should be a very good game.

How excited are you to play against Nic Wise? Did you ever play him in college and what is most difficult in stopping in his game?

I cant remember if I played against him in college. i know we played Arizona but I dont know if he was on the team then. I faced him in high school during aau ball before.

What will be key in leaving the floor as the victor after 40 minutes?

I think we just have to come out and take care of the ball and play physical.

What has been your impression of Kemba Walker of UCOON? Could he be the next John Wall?

No he is not the next John Wall. He is a great player .He has gotten so much better since i faced him his freshman year. (he was good then also tho)

What is your most memorable childhood snow experience?

I just remember being with all my homeboys throwing snow balls at cars on the side of the street then watchn to see if they stop and running from them..lol

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Basketball game.

Thanks Travis for the chat

Jerome Tillman Leaves MBC - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
31 Hours before the weekend game against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners, the Mittledeutscher BC have announced that leading scorer Jerome Tillman (198-F-87, college: Ohio) has left the club. Sometimes understanding a change like this is plausible when a player isnt performing or getting playing time, but the 23 year old 198cm forward from Beaver Creek, Ohio was doing both of these things.He was averaging 13,8ppg, 4,9rpg and 1,1apg, and averaging 26 minutes a game, but for some reason he wasnt content with his playing time. 'It was hard for Jerome to accept his role in the team. He was expecting something different and wasnt happy with his situation anymore', stressed MBC coach Bjoern Harmsen . Tillman flew back home and MBC will dive into the transfer marekt and look for a suitable replacement.

Source: MBC

Nick Jacobson Gets 4 Week Contract With The Giessen 46ers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The Giessen 46ers have brought back a very known figure back to the BEKO BBL by signing Nick Jacobson

(195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Utah) Jacobson who is a 30 year old 195cm shooting guard/small forward from North Dakota got a 4 week tryout. The injury to Anthony Smith (196-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Liberty) will still take some time to heel and the club is really missing a dangerous shooter so getting the American was logical. 'Anthony can slowly put pressure on his leg again. We think that he will be able to return back to practice in the next week with easy contact. When he exactly can play again, we will decide with our doctors. We will not risk that his heeling process be in any danger of not finishing', stated Giessen coach Vladi Bogojevic. Last season Jacobson played for TEC Spirou Charleroi (Belgium-D1): EuroCup: 6 games: 7.5ppg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 37.5%; Belgian League: 32 games: 7.1ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 43.3%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT-2 (86.8%). The Giessen 46ers know exactly what they have recieved with Jacobson. 'With Jacobson, we have a player that makes us more dangerous from the wing and has much experience. He has left his mark in the BEKO BBL and in other leagues in Europe. he knows where the rabbit runs',said Vladi Bogojevic.

Jacobson started his basketball career at Utah (NCAA) where he played from 2000-2004 and in his senior year played 33 games avergaing 16.5ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.3apg. he started his professional basketball career for Galatasaray Istanbul (Turkey-D1): 26 games: 14.2ppg, 3.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 41.0%, 3FGP: 38.0%. He then played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven from 2005-2007 playing a total of 77 games. His best season was 2005-2006 where he averaged 15.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 37.3%. He took part in the 2006 and 2007 BEKO BBL Allstar three point shooting contest and won it in 2007. In 2007-2008, he played for Euphony Bree (Belgium-D1, starting five): 35 games: 14.3ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 86.0%. In belgium, he won reached the cup final twice and was league champion in 2010. In 2008-2009, he played for Helios Domzale (Slovenia-1A, starting five): Slovenian League: 34 games: 12.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 41.3%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 86.2%; Adriatic League: 24 games: Score-2 (16.0ppg), 2.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 44.1%, FT: 90.8%. In Slovenia, he reached the Slovenian League All-Star Game -09 (3-Points Contest Winner).

Source: Giessen 46ers

Tristan Blackwood Joins s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg have signed Tristan Blackwood

(183-G-85) until the end of the year. The club have had injuries and had to react. 'Pale Paelay has to redo his rehab and Daniel Cioffi will return to practice at the start of 2011', declared s. Baskets sport manager Stephan Frost. Blackwood is a 25 year old 183cm guard from canada. he started his basketball career at Central Connecticut State College (NCAA) where he played from 2003-2008. In his senior year, he played 30 games: 16.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 5.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 40.5%, 3Pts: 37.0%, FT: 86.4%. He started his professional basketball for Aris Friesland Leeuwarden (Holland-Eredivisie): 39 games: 11.3ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-5 (4.3apg), 1.5spg, FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 34.3%, FT-1 (88.2%). Last season, he played for DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five), Dutch League: 25 games: 14.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.0apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.5%, 3PT-3 (42.9%), FT: 84.2%; in Feb.'10 moved to Eiffel Towers Den Bosch (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): Dutch League: 13 games: 9.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 32.3%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 92.9%; EuroChallenge: 2 games: 13.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.5apg, 1.0spg. He started this season for JL Bourg Basket (France-ProB). Some achievements that he has recieved in his career have been Canadian U18 National Team -03, Global Games U18 in Dallas -03, High School Adidas All Canadian Game -04, Canadian Young, National Team Camp -04, Dallas Global Games U21 -04, Canadian U21 National Team -04, 05, Tournament of the Americas U21 in Halifax -04, World Championships U21 in Argentina -05, NEC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, NEC Tournament Semifinals -06, NEC Regular Season Champion -07, NEC Tournament Winner -07, NEC All-Tournament Team -07. All-NEC 1st Team -07, 08, All-NEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year -07, Canadian University National Team -07, World University Championships in Bangkok -07, and All-NEC Defensive Player of the Year -08.

Source: s. Oliver baskets

Kevin Hamilton (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) Pregame Thoughts To Alba Berlin Game December 4th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Kevin Hamilton

(193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York. This season, he is playing for The New York Phantoms Braunschweig. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1 (6.4apg), Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. In tue summer of 2009, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing 35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3 (6.3apg), Steals-2 (1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. Last season, he played his first season in Braunschweig playing 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against Alba Berlin December 4th.

How well did the team digest the 81-68 loss in Tuebingen?

Not very well but we are trying to stay positive throughout all the negativity.

How well has the Braunschweig defense been developing this season? How difficult is it be focused for 40 minutes on defense during a game.

It has not developed quick enough. It seems we still have problems with our defense at this point so hopefully something changes soon. We definitely need to be better this weekend.

How difficult is it playing without Marcus Goree?How importnat is Goree for the Braunschweig defense?

Its tough whenever anyone is out of the line-up. We were able to win two games with out him so there is really no excuses for last weeks performance.

Does Alba Berlin possibly have the right personel this season to win it all in the BEKO BBL?

As usual they are a very good team. They are very well coached and stick to there game plan. It is going to be a tough challenge for us.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners used a zone against Alba Berlin that workrd pretty well in the first half. What will be key in winning against Alba Berlin for Braunschweig?

I am not sure yet. I am sure coach will come up with a game plan for them soon.

Who is it more difficult to stop Julius Jenkins or Immanuel Mcelroy?

They are both very talented players who can hurt you in different ways. It is tough to stop both of them but we are going to try our best.

What is your favorite childhood snow experience?

Snow ball fights in Jamaica park in Queens.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The Town

Thanks Kev for the chat.

Dane Watts (Walter Tigers Tuebingen) Pregame Thoughts To Artland Dragons Game December 4th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dane Watts

(203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 24 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg, Montana.He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. Lasts eason, he played for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. He returns to Tuebingen for the 2010-2011 BEKO BBL season. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. Watts sat down with eurobasket before the game against the Artland Dragons December 4th.

A bitter 89-86 loss in Ludwigsburg. The team has lost three of the last four games. Two of the losses were very tight games. How tough has this stretch been?

It has been a frustrating stretch, losing to Frankfurt and Ludwigsburg on the road in close games.

Tuebingen was down by a lot in the third, but fought back and took the lead in the fourth quarter, but EnBW Ludwigsburg pulled out the win at the end. What was key in Ludwigsburg winning?

We did not come out with enough intensity in the first half and fell behind. We were much more focused in the 2nd half but was not enough to get the win. Lubu making their FTs kept them in the lead.

Johannes Herber had 18 points. He seems to be coming back very well after his injury. What has impressed you most in his comeback so far?

Joe is a very hard worker and has strengthened his body back to form to be effective for us. I have been impressed at how much energy he uses to stop his man on defense, he takes pride in that and I think he will only get better as the season moves on.

Kenny Wiliams had 13 points and 15 rebounds in 32 minutes. How much has he improved as a player since you joined team last season?

-K.C Williams has played great the last two games for us, he has the tools to be like that every night.

The next game is against the Artland Dragons on Saturday. What has been your impression of them this season?

They are ahead of us in the standings and have been playing good basketball thus far. They have an experienced team. We will be watching more film on them in the next days.

How much of a challenge is it playing against Nathan Peavy? What is most difficult to stop on his game?

He is a 4 man with good perimeter skills, good athleticism and is aggressive.

What will be key in winning this game?

Stopping penetration and controlling the boards.

What is your impression of the New Orleans Hornets? How far can they go this season?

Okafor is doing the dirty work for them and with Paul/West they have a tough duo. Only time will tell how far they can go, it is a long season.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

re-watched The matrix

Ryan Williams is leaving Bernau - by Moritz Korff
Ryan Williams (191-G-85, college: Pace) has taken leave from SSV Lok Bernau and returned home to the United States. The 25-year-old asked to opt out of his contract with the 2. Bundesliga Pro B team and the Bernau club officials decided to let him go. Williams has been a key to Bernau's success over the past two and a half years. He first joined SSV Lok for the 2008-09 season, received Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga North First Team honors in his initial campaign in pro basketball and returned to Bernau in January 2010. In the last eight games of the 2009-10 campaign the Centreville, VA native helped the team to earn promotion to the Pro B league.
He had nine appearances in this current season, while scoring a team high 17.7 points per contest. On October 16th he exploded for 42 points, including 7 of 13 from beyond the arc, which still marks a Pro B season best.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners Will probably Desire the Wolf Sneer of Michael Jordan Rather Than His Colgate Smile As They Meet MBC On December 4th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
When the MBC Wolves come in packs to the Ballsporthalle, the Deutsche Bank Skyliners will possibly have the choice of experiencing the aggressive wolf sneer of Michael hakim Jordan or his gregarious giant lovable smile that could melt ten feet of snow in the dead of winter in Winnipeg, Manitoba, get a weak, but positive smile from pro football player Terell Brown who is forced to diet on Thanksgiving and watch his teammates snack on a Turkey and spare ribs or even have the rare raw talent of getting a quick grin from the German politicians who were insulted in Wikipedia. Either way Jordan will be able to put on his competitive wolf sneer or model his irresistible and charming smile and will still play his typical hard game and be the strong MBC floor general that he has been this season leading the wolf attack. But current BEKO BBL players see the wolf sneer as possibly the better choice of attack form Jordan. 'I think that any time when Jordan is on the court that his wolf sneer would be the better bet for Frankfurt. Because anytime when he is smiling with all those white teeth then means things are going well for him', warned TBB Trier guard John Bynum. When Jordan was with Cologne in 2006, he flashed those whitey whites for days after the team won the title and players remember when Jordan uses his choppers to show the world he has had success. 'For the sake of Frankfurt, they better hope that Jordan plays with the wolf sneer, because if he is smiling then it means that he is winning', stressed ex Phoenix Hagen teammate Quentin Pryor.

MBC left the BEKO BBL in 2004 and returned back in 2009. For even the most dedicated MBC fans. five years of inactivity from the highest German Basketball league may have felt like five years without your favourite beer, or for a child being able to go into a candy store, but not grab for their favourite candy. How tough must it have been for the organization and fans in 2004 to win the prestigious Fiba Europe Cup against JDA Dijon 84-68 not losing a single game in international play and a short time later have to learn that they would have to stop their successful run in the BBL due to bankruptcy. I remember watching the Eurocup final in 2004. I am happy that MBC is back and it is nice to see how well a job young coach Bjorn Harmsen is doing. It is a special team that is playing with a lot of emotion and energy. It is refreshing to see that 10 players are sharing minutes, scoring and rebounding, stressed Murat Didin. This was a huge blow to the region and may only have been topped if a severe unusual drought had whipped away the two natural springs, the Leisslinger mineral water and Saskia Quelle where mineral water is bottled in the region. However the organization never gave up, took up playing in the Regionaliga and eventually moving up to the Second Bundesliga/PRO A and continuing to build up the team financially and through success on the court. Coach Ari Tammivaara was sort of the early architect managing a record of 72-20 until 2007.

In the 2008-2009 PRO A season, MBC ploughed through the league with a 26-4 record with the same easy as a bull dozer had to get through the sloppy and treacherous roads and drive ways during the New England blizzard of 1978. Even though the team was so commanding at home with a 14-1 record, it simply couldnt get by Bayreuth that won the season series. The team had better luck against Phoenix Hagen sweeping the season series who they will meet again with changed rosters in the BBL. The team scored 90 points or more nine times and 100 points or more twice. There strongest phase was in the middle of the season going on an 14 game winning streak. They also showed that they could step it up on defense if they needed to ousting Science City Jena 61-48 and also showing their own nerves of steel grinding out close wins against The Teck Pro Braves 68-67 and 83-81 against Cuxhaven. The only real slip up that the team had was a 95-76 defeat against USC Heidelberg. Without question, MBC was the best team in the PRO A last season and rightfully deserved to return back to the BBL after a five year drought and soon after gave the fans a tasty summer gift as management announced that the club was also prepared to enter the BBL with the minimum allocated budget. I believe what made MBC so strong is that everyone knew and ACCEPTED their role. Coach Harmson makes sure they are prepared and its up to the players to do their part. It seemed that everyone was on the same page, stressed Bayreuth youth coach Sean Mccaw.

Last season, MBC played very solid and were near and around the playoff standings for the whole season and really surpassing the highest expectations. The team finished the season in 10th place with a record of 18-16 and at times played as if they were a playoff team despite having the smallest budget in the BEKO BBL The team started off quickly winning their first three games and having a 6-2 record including wins against The Telekom Baskets Bonn and The Brose Baskets Bamberg. The only problem that the club really had was that it wasnt always consistent. Despite their up and down play, the team had shown that it can compete with any team as they also added wins against 2009 BEKO BBL champion EWE Baskets Oldenburg and the Artland Dragons to their collection. Their biggest win of the season was against 8 time BEKO BBL champion Alba Berlin. The team had a lightening start like the Nordlingen Giants in 2008-2009, but the only difference is that they have been able to play solid all the way through, not sustain injuries and not have to count on a four man rotation. MBC had a very young team which might have had to do with their up and down play. It is really a matter of execution. Sometimes we executed well while other times we are very sloppy. We were not always mature to balance out our game plan, stressed ex MBC American Ade Dagunduro who is playing in Belgium this season. Teams started to figure out how to attack them and play against them, said Quentin Pryor. MBC was able to strengthen their offense last season. MBC was always a defensive team, but now the team is very solid on offense, stated Quentin Pryor. MBC play very hard at both ends of the court and play together as a whole unit, stressed Tuebingen guard Steven Wright. 'When you have 12 players on the same page then it is also a lot easier to win. We were a young team and all guys seemed to connect very well. We all understood each other and they were all good guys. I like every guy, stressed ex CSKA center Anatoly Kashirov.

Last season, MBC got off to a quick 6-2 start, but this season the opposite has occurred as the team started at 3-7 and are moping at position 16 near the BEKO BBL cellar. Nobody has to be a mathematician wiz to see that MBC seems to have a little less quality than last season. The team lost key players Ade Dagunduro, Giorgi Gamqrelidze, Anatoly Kashirov and Nikita Khartchenkov and role players Ivan Elliot and Oskar Fassler. This season, the team got Michael hakim Jordan and Jerome Tillman who have been their most important players and solid role players Vassil Evtimov and Davon Roberts. MBC might have gotten off to a slow start, but the season is long and the team will surely still make a run. 'MBC is a good solid team with some good individual players. They can beat any team on any given night in the BEKO BBL. They have great guard play with Jordan and Bernard. They will find their rhythm soon', stressed TBB Trier guard John Bynum. 'MBC is a solid team that just hasnt come together yet this season', warned Phoenix Hagen guard Quentin Pryor. Having a Jordan barking the signals in the backcourt and having a Bernard scoring, MBC have little weakness at the guard position. 'The MBC guard play is great. They also have good experience in the paint with Guido Grunheid. They will get better as the season goes along', commented John Bynum. MBC is only averaging 31 rebounds per game which is 7 less than what The Deutsche Bank Skyliners average, but the club can have a strong rebounding day anytime especially when a Vassil Evtimov is making room under the boards. 'They are a very good rebounding team. They have big bodies that crash and control the glass', warned Quentin Pryor.

With only three wins and an average of 67 points per game, there must be some deficiency in the MBC play that doesnt allow them to get more success so far this season? 'MBC seems not to really have a main threat down low. They are also missing a go to guy that can get that important bucket when the game is close', stressed Quentin Pryor. Despite having a 10 man rotation, MBC seems to be lacking some punch off the bench. 'A weakness of MBC is their depth, but teams cant forget that they can beat any team on any given night. MBC has fight hard like every other team in the BEKO BBL', stressed John Bynum. MBC might be near the end of the playoffs and the last thing on their mind is their chances of reaching the playoffs, but playoff teams Bonn and Goettingen also have started slow and most likely have goals of reaching the playoffs. 'Anything is possible in this league for reaching the playoffs. I dont really think that there is much difference between 4-18 in the BEKO BBL. Bamberg, Berlin and Frankfurt are the only teams that have separated themselves from the rest', said John Bynum. 'MBC have a chance to reach the playoffs since the BEKO BBL is very tight. No team is out of the race yet', commented Quentin Pryor.

MBC recieved a shock as the club announced that leading scorer Jerome Tillman has left the club. Despite leading the team in scoring with 13,8 ppg, he was not happy with only 26 minutes per game. This is a huge hole which must be filled by other guys. Wayne Bernard who was the 2009 PRO A player of the year is a 29 year old 190cm combo guard from Poway, California who is playing his third season for MBC. He has displayed a knack for knocking down clutch baskets in key situations and is a player that performs at his best in pressure situations. He has superb range on his jumper, and can also drive to the hoop with slashing moves. He is also a capable ball handler. He played at Davidson (NCAA) from 2000-2003. Bernard has very much experience having played in countries like Israel, Greece, France, Sweden and Finland It doesnt matter where Bernard ha splayed, he has always been a scorer. in the 2008-2009 season where MBC moved up to the BEKO BBL, he played 30 games: 14.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 43.2%, FT: 80.4%. Last season, he played 34 games: 8.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.7apg, Steals-5 (1.5spg), FGP: 41.6%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 80.8%. This season, he is averaging 12,7ppg, 1,9rpg and 1,2spg. He also is shooting pretty consistent with 46% form the field and 39% from the parking lot.

Michael Jordan

(183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania) is a 33 year old 183cm point guard from the city of brotherly love that is playing his first season with MBC and his for his fourth BEKO BBL team. The scouting report on Jordan reads like a encyclopedia that had to go overtime because of the lengthy information. Jordan understands the game and knows how its played. When asked to get teammates involved he will reduce his scoring output and add to his assist total. When asked to score, he can and will, without forcing the issue. And Michael Jordan

(183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania) always defends. At 183 cm he is extremely quick on his feet and combined with his fearless attitude he can drive an opponent crazy defending him full court, half court, over and through picks, or away from the ball. Of course his quickness is an asset on the offensive end also. But its combined with his experience and poise that makes him so effective. Michael Jordan

(183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania) is a leader on the court who can score in many ways and has all the skills to make the players around him look better. He is a motivator, organizer, and director who gets his teammates ready to play hard. Michael is extremely dangerous in the transition phase almost always making the right decision. He can go coast to coast, pull up for the shot, or find the right guy running the lanes. In the half court set Michael also has many options to choose from. He is an excellent pick and roll player as he is able to turn the corner and take it to the hole. When the defense cheats or switches he can hit the three or take a bigger guy one-on-one. In addition to his skills on both ends of the floor he has the necessary desire and drive to win every game. He plays with an intensity that fuels his teammates and the crowd alike. On the court Michael Jordan

(183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania) is the complete package at his position. He started his basketball career at Pennsylvania and started his BEKO BBL career with the Artland Dragons in 2002 helping the small village team reach the BEKO BBL. in the 2004-2005 season he played 34 games: 11.1ppg, 3.4rpg, Ast-1 (6.4apg), 1.3spg, 2.6bpg, 2FGP: 52.5%, 3FGP: 31.3% and lost to the Opel Skyliners in the quarterfinals of the playoffs. His career highlight so far was winning the BEKO BBL title in 2006 with Cologne. He has played in countries like France, Belgium, Israel and Greece. Last season, he came late to Phoenix Hagen and helped the team stay in the league averaging 2.3rpg, Assists-5 (5.3apg), FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 73.3%. his season, he is averaging 10,1ppg, 2,7rpg and 4,8apg and shooting very well with 44% form the field and 40% from the three point line.

The team also brought back German Guido Gruinheid who is a 28 year old 209cm forward from Jena. He is an in-betweener forward with the height (but not the size) of a 4 and the quickness (but not the ball handling and the shot) of a 3. A good rebounder and a hustler. He played for Alba Berlin from 2001-2005 winning three BEKO BBL titles. He then moved to Rhein Energie Koln in 2005 where he won his fourth BEKO BBL title in 2006. He got added experience playing in Holland for Hanzevast Capitals Groningen . He also has gained valuable experience playing for the German national team as he was a member playing at the 2006 World Championships in Japan and at teh 2007 European Championships in Spain. Last season for MBC, he played 34 games: 8.6ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 58.0%. This season, he is averaging 8,0ppg, 4,3rpg and 1,0apg. Radenko Pilcevic is a 24 year old 188cm guard from Serbia that is playing his second season for MBC and is the back up to Michael Jordan

(183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania). He had solid stats at KK Borac Cacak in 2008-2009 playing 31 games and averaging 10.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 54.2%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 85.1%. Last season, he played 33 games averaging 7.4ppg, 1.7rpg, 3.2apg, FGP: 50.7%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT: 72.0%. This season, he is averaging 6,3ppg, 1,5rpg and 2,1apg. He has had problems with his shooting as he is struggling shooting only 28,2% from the field and 26% from outside.

28 year old 202 cm forward Sascha Leutloff got a second chance in the BBL after playing the last three with MBC and becoming into a solid role player. He started to play organized basketball at age 16 and developed rapidly into a promising player. He has very good speed and athletic potential, is a very good and aggressive defender, can play inside out, is an exceptional offensive rebounder, is a very good character and smart person on and off the court. In 2008-2009 in the PRO A, he averaged 9.9ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 23.7%, FT: 48.9%. He demonstrated that he was a very reliable scorer scoring in double figures in 17 games. Last season he played 38 games averaging 2.8ppg, 2.0rpg. Before coming to MBC, he played some years with Alba Berlin playing 9 BEKO BBL games and three Euroleague games and winning the BEKO BBL cup in 2006. Currently he is averaging 5,6ppg and 3,4rpg. The team kept 28 year old, 203cm forward, 230 pound Johnnie Gilbert who will be playing his fourth season with MBC. He played at Oklahoma (NCAA) and played together with Alba Berlin guard Hollis Price and was very successful winning the 12 Conf. Tournament in 01,02,03, reaching the NCAA Final Four -02 and NCAA Elite Eight -03. Before landing with MBC, Gilbert played in Chile and Finland. In the 2008-2009 PRO A season, he played 30 games averaging 13.2ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 61.9%, FT: 59.8%. Last season, he played 20 games averaging 9.1ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP-2 (68.5%), FT: 50.8%. Currently Gilbert is averaging 5,5ppg and 5,8rpg.

With the injury to Velirmir Radinovic, MBC got some real experience getting Vassil Evtimov who is a 33 year old 207cm power forward from Sofia, Bulgaria, but also has the French citizenship. He played at North Carolina (NCAA) and turned professional in 1999. He is a big man that does the dirty work inside using his big body getting rebounds. But he has also showed that he can score and grab rebounds as he got two consecutive double doubles this season for MBC. He has been a world basketball traveler having played in countries like Greece, Italy, Russia, France, Spain, Slovenia, Bulgaria, and Cyprus. His biggest success as a professional was winning the Saporta Cup with Maroussi (Greece) in 2001 and being MVP. He was a member of the French national team from 1999-2002 and with Bulgaria in 2009. Last season he was very active playing for three teams with BC Levski Sophia (Bulgaria-NBL, starting five), Balkan League: 1 game: 8pts, 6reb, 1ast; in Oct.'09 moved to Panionios ON Telecoms Athens (Greece-A1), Greek League: 4 games: 2.0ppg, 5.0rpg; in Jan.'10 moved to Proteas EKA AEL Limassol (Cyprus-Division A, starting five): EuroChallenge: 4 games: 3.5ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg. Currently he is averaging 5,2ppg and 6,3rpg.

The team also brought back Canadian Velimir Radinovic who is a 29 year old 212cm center that also has the Serbian citizenship. He was born in Toronto, Canada and has Serbian parents. He played at Ohio state from 2000-2004. Early in his career he played for top European teams FMP Zeleznik Beograd and KK Hemofarm Vrsac. In 2007-2008, he played for Clermontois Basket Auvergne (France-ProA, starting five): 28 games: 5.6ppg, 3.9rpg, 2FGP: 57.3%, FT: 79.6%. In 2008-2009, he played for Iraklis Thessaloniki (Greece-A2): 29 games: 7.0ppg, 4.4rpg, 2FGP: 55.0%, 3PT: 33.0%, FT: 87.0%. Last season for MBC, he came late in the season and played nine games averaging 4.1rpg, FGP: 59.4%, FT: 69.2%. He won the Serbian and Montenegro Cup in 2005 for Reflex Beograd. He was a member of the Canadian national team in 2005. Currently he is averaging 4,0ppg and 1,7rpg. The team also signed Davon Roberts who is a 24 year old 197cm forward from Covina California. He played at Cal State Sacramento before finishing at Ausa Pacific (NAIA): 35 games: 16.0ppg, 6.9rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 38.0%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 62.8%. In 2008-2009, he started his basketball career for Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig (Germany-ProB, starting five): 29 games: 16.5ppg, Reb-2 (9.4rpg), 2.1apg, 1.7spg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg), FGP: 60.1%, 3PT: 13.3%, FT: 67.4%. Last season, he played for Chemnitz 99 (Germany-ProA): 29 games: 10.5ppg, 5.0rpg, FGP: 57.2%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 56.3%. Currently, he is averaging 3,0ppg in 11.52 minutes per game.
After getting their seven game BEKO BBL winning streak snapped in Berlin in a game where the gang of coach Gordon Herbert led and dominated until the 36 minute, the Deutsche Bank Skyliners had a ordeal of a trip to the Ukraine for their Eurochallenge game against Khimik Yuzny and let another game get away losing 61-60 with a Curtis Milleage buzzer beater. Both MBC and Frankfurt enter the Ballsporthalle on Saturday with something to prove. Frankfurt lost two games in a row that tehy should of won and MBC try to rebound after getting killed at home by three time BEKO BBL champion Brose Baskets 78-55 and were trailing by as much as 30 points in the fourth quarter. Frankfurt will see a totally different MBC club on Saturday. 'The loss to Bamberg was big. It is never tough to come back after a big loss like that. MBC knows that there is a lot of room for improvement. MBC will have alot of motivation to focus on doing things right against Frankfurt so mistakes dont happen again', stressed Quentin Pryor.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners will still be without AJ Moye and Roger Powell, but at least the team has Jermaine Bucknor back who shined in Berlin adding 17 points and showing his big strength of hitting the three pointer. 'Having Bucknor back is big. He doesnt need extra time to learn the plays or get adjusted. He can put in without hesitation', stressed Quentin Pryor. 'Anytime that you have a player back that plays a key role, it really helps out. Depth is big, because anytime a team has to go lower on depth chart, the more you are asking other guys to do when they werent used to being in a situation like that and being consistent', said John Bynum. Frankfurt will not only have to win MBC on the court, but also be very focused mentally. They should be able to learn from their own mistakes the last two games. 'Frankfurt cant allow what happened to MBC against Bamberg effect them in any way about what they think about MBC as a basketball team. MBC is like any other team in the BEKO BBL and they can beat Frankfurt', warned Quentin Pryor. Frankfurt will have to be focused and remember who the MBC guards are. 'Frankfurt has to establish their game and can be successful that way. They cant allow Jordan or Bernard to control the game. The game will be determined by key players on both sides. It will be a good game', stressed John Bynum. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners host MBC on December 4th at 18:30.

Michael Jordan (MBC) Pregame Thoughts To Deutsche Bank Skyliners Game December 4th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

33 year old Michael Jordan

(183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania) is a 183cm guard from Philadelphia. He played at the University of Pennsylvania graduating in 2000. His first two years found him jumping around leagues in France and Spain before he found a new home in Germany with TSV Quackenbruck. In the 2002-2003 season, he helped lead Quackenbruck into the BBL with exceptional stats in 30 games, 21.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 6.9 apg. He helped turn The Artland Dragons into a playoff team in the 2004-2005 season as they lost the BBL Quarterfinal playoff series to The Opel Skyliners in five games. That season he averaged in 34 games: 11.1ppg, 3.4rpg, Ast-1 (6.4apg), 1.3spg, 2.6bpg, 2FGP: 52.5%, 3FGP: 31.3%. The enxt season, he was released by The Artland Drgaons, but went to Rhein Energie Cologne and won the BBL championship in 2006 averaging in 33 games: 9.8ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-4 (4.1apg), 1.0spg, 2FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 52.2%. The next season, he went to Italy and played at Cantu where he eld the league in assists and averaged in 37 games: 13.8ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-1 (5.2apg), 2.0spg, 2FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 74.0%. The next season, he played in Belgium for Charleroi averaging in15 games: 9.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.6apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 90.0%;. He had injury problems and finished the season in Greece with PAOK. In 2008-2009 after a very short stay in Israel, he played a few months in Bamberg before going to the Cologne 99ers averaging 10,5ppg, 2,4rpg and leading the BBL in assists with 6,2apg. Last season, he played for Phoenix Hagen helping the team remain in the BEKO BBL. He played 16 games: 8.9ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-5 (5.3apg), FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 73.3%. This season he is playing his first season with MBC. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners December 4th.

How well has MBC digested the 78-55 loss at home to 3 time BEKO BBL chmapion Brose Baskets Bamberg?

It was a tough loss for us and very hard to swallow, but Bamberg just flat out played better than we did and earned that victory. That game is behind us now and we have been working on getting better and focusing on Frankfurt.

MBC currently has a 3-7 record in the BEKO BBL. What have been the main reasons for the slow start?

Our record isn't very good at the moment but we know we can turn it around. Bamberg was the only game that we lost that I feel as though we got beat. We had an opportunity to win every other game and had a lull in the most inopportune moments.

What has been the main focusin practice this week in preparation for the Frankfurt game?

Can't give out our secrets Miles. Then FFM will know what we are doing. But just as in every game. We have been working on defense, rebounding, and execution.

The next game is against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners. What has been your impression of the club so far this season?

Frankfurt is a very good team with lots of weapons.

How excited are you about playing Dashaun Wood? The guy runs like road runner. Are teams going to find a way to stop him?

I'm looking forward to the challenge of stopping Woods. He has scored I believe 35 and 32 in his last two games. He's quick and can shoot it. It's gonna take a team effort to keep him under wraps.

Frankfurt will want to control you and Wayne Bernard. What is MBC have to do to have a good chance to win?

For us to win we have to score more points than FFM. :D. Seriously though, we have to play hard, smart and together. Additionally, we have to limit FFM's second chances, contain Woods, execute our offense and limit our to's.

Your were in the left corner as Vassil Evtimov launched the bomb. Were you sure that the ball would go in after he released it?

I was streaking down hoping he would pass it up, and then he launched it from the other ft line. I didn't know it was in as he released it, but as it crossed half court , In my head, I was like wowwwwwwwwwww (Flavor flav voice) it's going in!!!

What will the Philadelphia 76ers be able to do this season in the NBA?

I think the 76ers will win more games than last year. I like the direction they are going and I especially like the fact that they hired Doug Collins. Good coach and a great guy!

What was your favorite childhood snow experience?

Favorite childhood snow experiences would be the neighborhood football games and also the snow ball fights.. LEGENDARY!!!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD I watched was Kevin Hart's stand up...'Seriously Funny'.. HILAAAAAAARIOUS!!!!!
He used to always tell jokes and stuff back in the day and now he's doing really big things.

Thanks MJ for the chat.

Wolfenbuettel parts company with coach and leading scorer - by Moritz Korff
Herzoege Wolfenbuettel's club management has reacted to the most recent on-court performances by dumping head coach Alexander Biller. With two wins and eight defeats the Wolfenbuettel team is currently sitting in 11th place of the 2. Bundesliga Pro B (Division North) standings.
Earlier this week the club had announced that the contract of Kareem Grant (201-G/F-82, agency: Law Office of Michael A.Miller, college: Tennessee St.) will not be extended. The agreement with the 28-year-old expired on November 30th. Grant appeared in all ten games for Wolfenbuettel this season, while leading the team in scoring (18.7ppg). He also averaged four rebounds per contest.
The Wolfenbuettel decision makers didn't hesitate to bring in a fresh player, as Brandon Giles (198-G-88, college: W.Carolina) was handed the opportunity to make his Germany debut with the team from Lower Saxony. Giles is 22 years of age and hails from Auburndale, Florida. He spent his entire college career at NCAA Division 1 school Western Carolina and graduated earlier this year. As a senior Giles tallied 11.9 points and 3.9 boards a game for the Catamounts.

Standings - 1. Bundesliga

1.Bundesliga Standings

1. Brose Baskets		11-0
2. ALBA		8-1
3. Dt.Bank SKY		8-3
4. Bremerhaven		8-4
5. EWE Baskets		7-5
6. Art.Dragons		6-5
7. TBB Trier		6-6
8. Telekom Baskets		5-6
9. NY Phantoms		5-6
10. Phoenix Hagen		5-6
11. LTi 46ers		5-7
12. EnBW L'burg		5-7
13. ratiopharm		4-6
14. Walter Tigers		4-6
15. Goettingen		4-7
16. MBC		3-7
17. Bayreuth		3-9
18. Duesseldorf		2-8

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game

DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.Bank SKY
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 17

1. Wood, Dt.	17.0
2. Callahan, Bremerha.	16.3
3. Peacock, LTi 46ers	15.9
4. Harris, EnBW L.	15.8
5. Martin, Bremerha.	15.8
6. Dorris, Phoenix .	15.2
7. Pryor, Phoenix .	15.1
8. Zwiener, TBB Trier	15.0
9. Reiner, Bayreuth	13.8
10. Tillman, MBC	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

John BRYANT
  ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 9.7

1. Bryant, ratiopharm	9.7
2. Reiner, Bayreuth	8.3
3. Ensminger, Teleko.	8.0
4. Stevic, EWE B.	7.7
5. Martin, Bremerha.	7.4
6. Peacock, LTi 46ers	7.3
7. Ovcina, LTi 46ers	7.3
8. Dragicevic, ALBA	6.6
9. Goree, NY Phantoms	6.6
10. Boumtje, Art.Drag.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter Tigers
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 7.2

1. Ratkovica, Walter T.	7.2
2. Joyce, TBB Trier	4.9
3. Jordan, MBC	4.8
4. Copeland, Bremerha.	4.7
5. Dorris, Phoenix .	4.5
6. Wood, Dt.	4.4
7. Gamqrelidze, LTi	4.3
8. Hamilton, NY Phant.	4.3
9. Haynes, Duesseldorf	4.1
10. Green, EnBW L.	4.1

Steals Per Game

Kevin HAMILTON
  NY Phantoms
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Hamilton, NY Phant.	2.3
2. Dorris, Phoenix .	1.9
3. Trice, ratiopharm	1.8
4. Burtschi, Phoenix .	1.7
5. Pryor, Phoenix .	1.6
6. Campbell, Teleko.	1.5
7. Lukauskis, EWE B.	1.5
8. Wise, Telekom .	1.5
9. Bailey, Art.Dragons	1.4
10. Martin, Bremerha.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Tibor PLEISS
  Brose Baskets
  (214-F/C-89)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Pleiss, Brose B.	2.3
2. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.	2.3
3. Powell, Dt.	1.5
4. Bryant, ratiopharm	1.4
5. Ohlbrecht, Teleko.	1.3
6. Boumtje, Art.Drag.	1.1
7. Hines, Brose B.	1.1
8. Baynes, EWE B.	1.1
9. Femerling, ALBA	1.0
10. Reiner, Bayreuth	1.0

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

GREECE

Aris tabs Bobby Brown - by Emiliano
Aris Thessaloniki at the end, after having tried to land both Kenny Hasbrouck (191-G-86, college: Siena) and Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston), announced via its official website the signing of Bobby Brown

(188-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) until the end of the season. The American point guard started the season with Asecco Prokom, in Poland, which released him late last week.
Brown with the jersey of the Polish powerhouse averaged 23.8ppg and 4.3apg in four games in PLK, 12.6ppg and 2.2apg in VTB League and 10.7ppg in Euroleague.
Last season Brown was in NBA with New Orleans Hornets and Los Angeles Clippers. With Hornets he recorded averages of 6.6ppg, 2.1apg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 25.8% in 22 games while with Clippers, who joined in January, in 20 games, registered 3.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 2.1apg.
Brown in Europe has played with Alba Berlin in 2007/08 winning German Bundesliga.

Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
A1 Transfer news
Bobby Brown

(188-G-84, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) agreed financial terms with Aris Thessalonikis to replace the injured Pierce
Kevin Ford (206-F/C, college: ORU) and Kolossos Rodou split ways
Lans Harris

(195-G-84, college: Kansas St.) will be present in the game of Ikaros Kallitheas this weekend.
Nikola Koprivica

(200-F-88, college: Washington St.) will be playing this weekend with the Iraklis jersey
Dalibor Bagaric

(217-C-80) will be playing in the weekend's game with MAroussi's jersey

A2 Transfer news
Nikos Kourtis (195-F-77) agreed financial terms with Panerythraikos AS
Giannis Psathas (203-F-83) in Apollon Patras for one year
Alexandros Sigounas (200-F-88) in Panelefsiniakos AOK for one year
Kyriakos Troulialis (180-G-80) in MAS Ermis Lagkada for the enxt two years.

Spiros Panteliadis

(191-G-77) and Savvas Iliadis

(192-G-79) are most wanted for at least 5 A2 teams which are trying to add the two veteran players in their rosters.
B' Division Transfer news
Giannoulis Larentzakis (200-F-94) is back to Egaleo AO the young international player with the U17 after his seriosu injury is now back in action and will help his team starting form this weekend.

Kolossos and Kevin Ford parted ways - by Emiliano
Kevin Ford (206-F/C, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: ORU) ended his experience in Greece with the jersey of VAP Kolossos Rodou. The player was waived by the Greek team after six games in the domestic league in which he was averaging 5.8ppg and 4.0rpg.
Ford is at his first pro experience after his stint at college with ORU. In his last season in NCAA he recorded averages of 12.0ppg, 7.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 59.1%
in 33 games having a All-Summit League Honorable Mention.

Theos:"No future for basketball in Greece" (Part 2) - by George Fragkos
This is the second part of the conversation we had with Mr. Fotis Theos, the chairman of the board of Iraklis Thessaloniki, who spoke about various other subjects.

The youth teams and the talents that are lost:
'If we want basketball to improve wholly, changes are needed at the system of the academies too. There must be a championship between the big clubs for youth teams too. All the clubs of A1 must have a second team to participate in a championship just like A1, as it happens in soccer. When the first teams play with each other, two or three hours earlier there must be a game between the second ones. This will help them to earn experience as they will participate in big games and they will get motivated to become even better and play those games for the first team too. Now, the youngsters dont care about the games they have to give because they face schools. Its not the same to compete against a team and against a school. The league in which they take part currently is a total parody. It does not make a difference for the young players if they win the championship or not, as their opponents are some unknown teams. There are no challenges for young men in basketball. At A1 they cannot play. At A2 the teams do not trust them and the other categories are amateur. The consequence is that lots of talented young people stop basketball and try to look for another job. PSAK (The Greek Union of Professional Players) is right to ask for pension and health insurance for its members, but it forgets about the youth. If they demanded from the state to oblige all the clubs to have at least four players below 20 years old in their roster, things would have been very different for those youngsters'.

The model of Partizan and the possibility of a Greek team to imitate the Serbian club:
'What they do at Partizan is not something that can be used as an example by us. There they have a number of managers who produce talented players to sell them after some years. In our country only a team without fans and expectations can try to do it. And if anyone tries to do it, his target will be to make an easy and quick profit and then he will disappear. In Partizan they do not act like that. They make a profit but they also try to create a team which will be a title contender. What Partizan does in Serbia, only some private schools try to do it in Greece. But they have no ambition to build a powerful team. They function like academies of Olympiakos or Panathinaikos. This makes our job even more difficult. We cannot attract young talents! They prefer to go to those schools, who educate them without any payment. For me the most appropriate model for Greek basketball is the one of Ikaros Kallithea. A businessman invests money to buy some good players, while the people of the club try to produce a few young talents, who can gain a lot playing alongside their experienced teammates. But there is a great danger for them too. They can easily become a feeder club for the two major clubs of the category'.

Agents and their role in basketball nowadays:
'The reason that the clubs co-operate with the same agents for years is that they cannot do something else. Those agents are like a closed circle which encloses the teams. No club can get away from that circle and most of them do not want it either. They need a quick solution and they take whoever the agents propose to them. But now they have begun to generate problems to us and the clubs generally. If there is a young talented player, who has not a professional contract with the club he plays for yet, they approach him in order to convince him to hire them and then as the representatives of the player they pose unreasonable demands. We have also given in such demands but no more! If this happens again, we have decided to let the player who will try to do this free to find the money he believes that he is worth for'.

The coaches of the team and in general:
'Coaches are very unsafe people as professionals. Even if they are at a team which has no weakness they will ask for more players. Our coach Kostas Pilafidis told us that he stops for personal reasons. He could not stand the situation in basketball generally and announced us that he will not keep on coaching. We gave his assistant the opportunity to become the head coach, but he turned our proposal down. I do not understand this. We told him that we were going to keep him even if the team would be facing relegation and he declined. Coaches do not have a lot of self-esteem from the beginning of their career till the end. If a young person who wants to earn money from this job is given an opportunity to be the first coach with such support from the board and he replies that he is not ready, then how can he build a career? But as I told you all the coaches feel insecurity and uncertain for their abilities'.

Second Division: 6th week Results and Scorers - by Chris Mammides
Perama - Diagoras Rodou 90-68
The home team thrashed the visiting site of Diagoras without any problem since it took a double digit difference from the first 4 minutes. An amazing Dimitris Tsarouchas (197-G-86) with a 7/10 three pointers was the top man in the game. Daigoras is struggling to survive this season but it seems that its a bit difficult as the competition is hard, much harder than the Third division.
Quarters: 36-14, 52-23, 73-49, 90-68.
Perama: Dimitris Tsarouchas 23, Emmanouilidis 17, Liakopoulos 22, Karastamatis 10
Diagoras: Chrisis 16, Panagiotarakos 11, Otountzidis 12

Doukas - M. Alexandros 72-61
Doukas faced problems only the first quarter when the visitor started better and took a initiatives for 12 minutes, after that there was a continuous monologue from the triplet of Kimonas Lehoudis (205-F-83), Achis and Michaloglou who never let the visitors to get the chance and lead the way.
Quarters: 16-20, 38-35, 57-43, 72-61.
Doukas: Prokos 10, Kimonas Lehoudis 18, Achis 10, Mihaloglou 12.
MM. Alexandros: Tassos Dimas (195-F/C-88) 21, Bakos 16

OFI - MENT 89-59
The home team of the islanders thrashed the Thessaloniki team as the difference went up to 37 points. The MVP of the game was the experience Alexis Bardas (189-F-81).
Quarters: 18-18, 38-32, 64-44, and 89-59.
OFI: Alexis Bardas 19, Karadolamis 14, Psaltou 11, Souflias 11.
MENT: Fotis Triantafillidis (187-G-81) 16, Ioakeimidis 15

Doxa - Anagennisi Floga 86-78
The Lefkadas team continues the victorious results after beating the team of Anagennisi by facing problems only the first quarter of the game.
Quarters: 17-26, 43-35, 59-53, 86-78.
Doxa: Makropoulos 12, Mitsakis 18, Godopoulos 12, Vassilis Vagenas (202-F-80) 16, Limparis 13
Anagennis: Savvas Manousos (208-F/C-85) 17, Onasoglou 14, Sfeikos 13.

Apollon K. - Stratoni 69-76
Stratoni succeeded its first road win after beating the team of Kalamaria with a very good fourth quarter. Apollon is the last team in the board and it remains winless after six weeks.
Quarters: 20-21, 37-35, 55-53, 69-76.
Apollon: Pavlidis 10, Hatzaturov 11, Giannis Vasiliou (194-G-87) 24
Stratoni: Koutouratzoglou 10, Dimitris Dislis (180-G-77) 17, Kigmetoglou 10, Darakis and Daskalopoulos 13 each.

Egaleo - Filippos Veroias 73-69
A derby took place in Egaleo where the home team succeeded finally to win the game as the visitors were lucking the needed experience to get the road wins in such games where the experience and the talent of the leaders of each team is needed.
Quarters: 18-19, 36-31, 50-45, 73-69.
Egaleo: Katsantonis 10, Mitropoulos 14, Aggelos Siristatidis (190-G-78) 17, Koukouras 10.
Filippos: V. Mavridis 10, A. Mavridis 14, Kotsambasis 15, Iosifidis 11

Aiolos Trikallon - N. Kifisia 67-74
A great road win was succeeded by N. Kifisia in Trikalla after playing a very good basketball in the second half and especially in the third quarter. Having four players with double digits, the team of N. Kifisia won the game quite easily.
Quarters: 26-18, 41-41, 55-61, 67-74.
Aiolos: Fountas 12, Giorgos Lepeniotis (187-G-79) 19.
N. Kifisia: Nikitakis 12, Limperopoulos 10, Stergios Papadopoulos (205-C-85) 17, Defoudis 12.

Olympiakos blasts Brose Baskets, stays on top of Group B - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos - Brose Baskets 86-69

Olympiakos blasted Brose Baskets 86-69 staying on top of Group B with 5-2 record. Real Madrid faced with loss against Unicaja meaning that the Reds are alone on the first place now. Loukas Mavrokefalides

(207-C-84) (8 rebs) and Vassilis Spanoulis

(193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points each for the winners, while Ioannis Bourousis

(212-C-83, agency: FCM) added 12 points and 12 boards. In Brose Baskets (2-5), Tibor Pleiss

(214-F/C-89) collected 16 points and 9 rebounds. Kyle Hines

(198-F/C-86) registered double-double of 15 points and 10 boards.
Teams were totally leveled in the first quarter, which ended with 18-18 tie. Than in the second period the Greek giant took control on Brose Baskets, what resulted with 16-7 run after five minutes in Q2. The hosts continued in the same rhythm and they scored 14 more points for rest of the period, while limiting their rivals to 9. Thus, after 20 minutes of play Olympiakos held comfortable 48-34. The Reds were in charge during the entire Q3, which they ended with 18-17 for plus 15 before the last ten minutes. Olympiakos reached 71-53 at the beginning of Q4 and it was clear who the winner of the night will be. The hosts ended last period with 20-18 for the final 86-69 victory against the team who beat them in their first meeting in Germany.
In the next round, Olympiakos goes to Malaga. Brose Baskets will meet Charleroi on the road.

Olympiakos: Loukas Mavrokefalides 16+8 boards, Vassilis Spanoulis 16, Ioannis Bourousis 12+12 boards
Brose Baskets: Tibor Pleiss 16+9 boards, Kyle Hines 15+10 boards

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

HOLLAND

Stats Leaders - Eredivisie

Points Per Game

Glenn STOKES
  BS Weert
  (170-G-76)
  Avg: 22.1

1. Stokes, BS Weert	22.1
2. Kimbrough, Giants	17.4
3. Laing, Magixx	16.8
4. Borha, Landstede	16.4
5. Boxley, ZZ Leiden	16.4
6. Brown, DeFriesland	16.1
7. Voorn, ABC	14.8
8. Hilliman, Rotterdam	14.6
9. Mills, Eiffel Towers	14.5
10. Marshall, Lands.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Brandon GRIFFIN
  Giants
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 9.7

1. Griffin, Giants	9.7
2. Haryasz, GasTerra	9.7
3. McDermott, Magixx	9.5
4. Hilliman, Rotterdam	9.4
5. Sihota, Rotterdam	9.2
6. Hamm, BS Weert	8.5
7. de Randamie, ABC	8.4
8. Koenis, Giants	8.3
9. Sanchez, DeFriesl.	8.1
10. Ellis, GasTerra	7.8

Assists Per Game

Frank TURNER
  Eiffel Towers
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 5.4

1. Turner, Eiffel T.	5.4
2. Bauscher, GasTerra	5.1
3. Stokes, BS Weert	4.4
4. Bostain, GasTerra	4.2
5. Marshall, Lands.	3.8
6. Kimbrough, Giants	3.7
7. Williams, DeFriesland	3.7
8. Ormskerk, Rotte.	3.2
9. McGhee, ZZ Leiden	3.1
10. Jackson, ZZ Leiden	3.0

Steals Per Game

Frank TURNER
  Eiffel Towers
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Turner, Eiffel T.	2.6
2. Kimbrough, Giants	2.6
3. Hilliman, Rotterdam	2.5
4. Taylor, Magixx	2.5
5. Dourisseau, GasTe.	2.4
6. McDermott, Magixx	2.4
7. Jackson, ZZ Leiden	2.3
8. Stokes, BS Weert	2.0
9. Williams, DeFriesland	2.0
10. Haryasz, GasTerra	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Marcel AARTS
  Eiffel Towers
  (213-C-83)
  Avg: 2

1. Aarts, Eiffel T.	2.0
2. Hairston, BS Weert	1.7
3. Blue, Giants	1.2
4. Hilliman, Rotterdam	1.1
5. Hamm, BS Weert	0.9
6. Bekkering, ZZ Le.	0.9
7. Minter, BS Weert	0.9
8. Haryasz, GasTerra	0.8
9. Strong, Landstede	0.8
10. Oudendag, Magixx	0.8

Eiffel Towers Send Gas Terra Flames To 1st Loss, Rotterdam Challengers Gets 1st Win - by Sanders Jackson
This week in Dutch basketball action, tonight in the Maaspoort being that Eiffel Towers Den Bosch send defending Dutch champions GasTerra Flames Groningen to their 1st domestic loss, with controlling the tempo and controlling the boards playing a big factor, sending Eiffel to a convincing 74-59 win. The Flames also could not establish their perimeter game to balance out their potent inside attack. The ability of Eiffel point guard Frank Turner to get into the lane and create for others paid dividends, with Turner leading all scorers with 21 pts. and 6 assists. Marcel Aarts

(213-C-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy) also payed strong, with a double-double of 12 pts. and 11 rebounds. Jason Dourisseau led the Flames with 13 pts. While both teams turned the ball over a lot (21 times each), what helped Eiffel was the fact that they controlled the glass, made their free throws (16 of 19), and they had more balanced scoring. The Flames made only 2 of 13 three-pointers. With the win, Eiffel improves to 9-5, while Gas Terra Flames are now 13-1.

In the Topsportcentrum tonight, the Rotterdam Challengers thirst for a win was finally quenched, with the Rotterdammers winning over Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen 67-59. The Rotterdammers put on an explosion the 1st half, leading a whopping 44-20 at the half. The guests would chop the lead down and make it a game in crunch time, but the Rotterdammers would not be denied. Jeremy Ormskerk

(190-G-82) led the Rotterdammers with 15 pts., and Robbie Sihota (198-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) pulled down 17 boards. Markel Humphrey led Magixx with 18 pts.

In the Sporthallen-Zuid, it was a topsy turby game with first ABC Amsterdam dominating the 1st half, but in the 2nd half DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden would take the momentum away, keeping themselves on the right track, pulling out a close 65-61 win. At one point in the 1st half ABC Amsterdam led 43-24 , including a 23-6 run, led by the strong play of Hicham Kherrazi, who scored 11 pts. during that run. But in the 2nd half the guests went on a 28-11 run to close it to 58-58 in the last minute. From there the mistakes from Amsterdam turned into the advantage for Aris, with Todd Brown (196-G-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Wright St.) and John Williams converting from the free throw line to seal the win. Brown would lead all scorers with 19 pts. Sergio de Randamie led ABC with 17 pts. It was Aris third win in seven days, improving to 6-8 while ABC falls to 6-8.

Wednesday night in Zwolle, Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden had their hands full with Landstede Basketbal Zwolle the first three quarters, but in the 4th quarter it was all Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden, with the guests remaining on a roll, winning their seventh straight in a 74-61 win. Monta McGhee

(198-F-79, college: Lewis) had a strong game for ZZ, with a double-double of 17 pts. 14 rebounds and 5 steals. Ross Bekkering also had a strong game with 13 pts. and 12 rebounds. Harry Marshall led all scorers with 20 pts., with Lawrence Borha adding 19. ZZ also dominated the glass 52-37. With the win ZZ improves to 10-3.

Standings - Eredivisie

DBL Standings

1. GasTerra		13-1
2. ZZ Leiden		11-3
3. Eiffel Towers		9-5
4. Magixx		8-6
5. BS Weert		7-7
6. DeFriesland		7-8
7. ABC		6-8
8. Landstede		5-10
9. Giants		4-10
10. Rotterdam		1-13

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

HUNGARY

Standings - A Division

A Division Standings

1. Szolnok		9-1
2. Atomeromu		7-2
3. Albacomp		7-2
4. Kecskemeti		7-2
5. Kormend		7-2
6. ZTE KK		7-2
7. Falco-Szova		4-4
8. Szedeak		4-7
9. Marso-Vagep		3-6
10. PVSK Pannon		3-6
11. Soproni		3-6
12. Kaposvari		3-7
13. FS Debrecen		1-9
14. Salgotarjani		0-9

A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Robert JARVIS
  Soproni
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 25

1. Jarvis, Salgotarjani	25.0
2. Marshall, Marso-Va.	21.4
3. Cunningham, Kapos.	21.0
4. Werner, Kaposvari	21.0
5. Bell, Kormend	20.9
6. Wilson, Kaposvari	20.4
7. El-Amin, PVSK P.	19.1
8. Brooks, Soproni	18.9
9. Singletary, FS Debre.	18.7
10. Trotter, Szolnok	18.6

Rebounds Per Game

Brooks SALES
  Atomeromu
  (208-C/F-80)
  Avg: 12.1

1. Sales, Atomeromu	12.1
2. Townes, Soproni	10.8
3. Werner, Kaposvari	10.3
4. Jones, Albacomp	10.2
5. Bell, Kormend	9.7
6. Egemonye, PVSK P.	9.6
7. Gosa, Falco-Szova	9.0
8. Cunningham, Kapos.	8.9
9. Hargrove, Kaposvari	8.7
10. Clark, Szolnok	8.7

Assists Per Game

Lorenzo WILLIAMS
  ZTE KK
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Williams, ZTE K.	8.5
2. Simon, Albacomp	6.4
3. Savic, Marso-Vagep	6.2
4. Trotter, Szolnok	6.1
5. Kelley, Soproni	5.8
6. Kalman, Falco-Sz.	5.6
7. Wittmann, Kecsk.	4.6
8. Glavinic, PVSK P.	4.6
9. Horvath, Szolnok	4.5
10. Singletary, FS Debre.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Daniel WERNER
  Kaposvari
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Werner, Kaposvari	3.3
2. Clark, Szolnok	3.1
3. Marshall, Marso-Va.	3.0
4. Trotter, Szolnok	3.0
5. Williams, ZTE K.	2.8
6. Hanga, Albacomp	2.7
7. Savic, Marso-Vagep	2.7
8. Crocker, Albacomp	2.5
9. Singletary, FS Debre.	2.5
10. Bell, Kormend	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Ivory CLARK
  Szolnok
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Clark, Szolnok	3.2
2. Townes, Soproni	1.8
3. Egemonye, PVSK P.	1.3
4. McKenzie, Szedeak	1.3
5. Orsulic, Kecskemeti	1.1
6. Bell, Kormend	1.1
7. Morgen, Atomeromu	1.0
8. Sales, Atomeromu	1.0
9. Hargrove, Kaposvari	1.0
10. Keller, Albacomp	1.0

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

INDONESIA

Standings - IBL

NBL Standings

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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1 Merio Ferdiansyah STD 13.0
2 Faisal Julius Achmad SMB 12.3
3 Andy Poedjakesuma PJE 12.3
4 Agustinus Indrajaya CLS 12.0
5 Xaverius Prawiro ASP 11.8

Rebounds Per Game

1 Dian Heryadi MHT 10.8
2 Rony Gunawan SMB 8.1
3 Daniel Iskandar STD 7.9
4 Galank Gunawan SMB 7.6
5 Evin Istianto Hadi CSJ 6.4

Assists Per Game

1 Robert Santo Yunarto MHT 4.7
2 Faisal Julius Achmad SMB 4.3
3 Dimaz Muharri CLS 3.7
4 Evin Istianto Hadi CSJ 3.2
5 Denny Sartika BSM 3.1

Steals Per Game

1 Dimaz Muharri CLS 3.5
2 Dirk Mathew Mario Gerungan ASP 2.7
3 Kelly Purwanto PJE 2.5
4 Denny Sartika BSM 2.3
5 Dimas Aryo Dewanto PJE 2.3

Blocks Per Game

2 I G Ngurah Teguh Putra Negara CSJ 2.2
2 Ruslan STD 2.0
3 Valentino Wuwungan SWA 1.6
4 Muhammad Isman Thoyib ASP 1.5
5 Andy Poedjakesuma PJE 1.0

NBL Series II Recap and Standings - by Andrew Lowman
With the second series of games in the books we have a clearer picture of the teams in the NBL. Currently the Nuvo Cahaya Lestari Surabaya Knights, Satria Muda Britama Jakarta , and Pelita Jaya Jakarta sit atop the standings with 20 points apiece. Each team is finding success through different styles of play.
Pelita Jaya Jakarta Jaya is undefeated because of their tough defense and their ability to take care of the ball on offense. National Team member Ary Chandra (180-F-84) and his running mate Dimas Aryo Dewanto (F) are both averaging over 10 points per game to lead the teams offensive efforts.
Satria Muda Britama Jakarta has been hot of late winning their last seven games. Satria Muda Britama Jakarta is led by the veteran duo of Rony Gunawan (193-F/C-80) and Faisal Julius Ahmad. Gunawan is playing strong inside, averaging 11 points and 8 rebounds per contest. Ahmad is equally dangerous, currently placing 2nd among the league leaders in both points per game and assists per game.
Lastly, the Nuvo Cahaya Lestari Surabaya Knights have made their impact this year on both sides of the ball. On offense they have scored more points than any other team, but equally impressive is that they are leading the league in assists and steals.
The third series of games this season will be held in Solo on December 11 December 19.

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

IRAQ

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. Al Hilla		4-1
2. Al Kahraba		4-1
3. Al Karkh		4-1
4. Duhok		3-0
5. Al Tazamon		3-2
6. Al Shurtah		2-1
7. Al Jaysh		1-4
8. Al Houdoud		1-4
9. Al Najaf		1-4
10. Zakho		0-5

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

ITALY

Standings - Lega 2

Lega2 Standings

1. Snaidero UD		8-1
2. Umana Reyer		8-1
3. Barcellona		7-2
4. Fastweb CM		6-3
5. Tuscany PT		6-4
6. Immobiliare SR		5-4
7. Scafati Basket		5-4
8. Jesi		5-4
9. Assigeco		4-5
10. Aget IM		4-5
11. Trenkwalder		4-5
12. Prima Veroli		3-6
13. N.Ferrara		3-6
14. Forli		3-6
15. Tezenis Verona		2-8
16. San Severo		0-9

Kevin Melson and Ferrara parted ways - by Emiliano
Kevin Melson

(199-F-78, college: Wright St.) and Naturhouse Ferrara reached an agreement to part ways. The American forward arrived in the Italian team in November and with Ferrara has played 4 games averaging 6 points and 5 rebounds in 19.3 minutes of action.
Kevin Melson spent last season in Belgian Ethias League with Optima Gent recording averages of 16.0ppg (2nd best), 5.4rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 49.8%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 64.7% in 29 games and was selected to the Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League 2nd Team.
He has long experience in Europe in such important leagues as German Bundesliga, French Pro A, Dutch Eredivisie.

Ferrara is now on the market looking for a replacement of the player.

Union Olimpija hands 82-75 loss to Armani Jeans Milano - by Eurobasket News
Union Olimpija - AJ Milano 82-75

Union Olimpija celebrated 82-75 win against Armani Jeans Milano staying on top of Group D, together with Panathinaikos who also has 5-2 record. Kenny Gregory

(197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) came up with 17 points and 11 rebounds in this victory. Goran Jagodnik

(203-F-74, agency: Beo Basket) and Vlado Ilievski

(190-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency) helped with 15 and 14 points respectively. In AJ Milano, Morris Finley

(180-G-81, college: UAB) was the leading scorer with 16 points. David Hawkins

(193-G-82, college: Temple) and Niccolo Melli

Points Per Game

Joseph CRISPIN
  Barcellona
  (186-G-79)
  Avg: 27.1

1. Crispin, Barcellona	27.1
2. Whiting, Aget IM	22.4
3. Clark, Umana Reyer	21.6
4. Gordon, Forli	19.7
5. Jackson, Prima Veroli	19.2
6. Pecile, Jesi	18.9
7. Marigney, Assigeco	18.3
8. Boyette, N.Ferrara	17.7
9. Young, Umana Reyer	17.4
10. Varnado, Tuscany PT	17.2

Rebounds Per Game

Jarvis VARNADO
  Tuscany PT
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 10

1. Varnado, Tuscany PT	10.0
2. Lollis, Immobili.	9.7
3. Johnson, San Severo	9.2
4. Waleskowski, Tezeni.	8.8
5. Boykin, Assigeco	8.7
6. Chiacig, Scafati .	8.4
7. Filloy, Immobili.	8.2
8. Ebi, Aget IM	8.2
9. Maggioli, Jesi	7.7
10. Dordei, Snaidero UD	7.3

Assists Per Game

Antonio PORTA
  Tezenis Verona
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 5

1. Porta, Tezenis .	5.0
2. Williams, Snaidero.	3.9
3. Crispin, Barcellona	3.9
4. Farabello, N.Fer.	3.8
5. Mathis, Snaidero.	3.4
6. Fultz, Trenkwalder	3.3
7. Clark, Umana Reyer	3.3
8. Levin, Scafati .	3.3
9. Whiting, Aget IM	3.2
10. Scarone, Immobili.	3.1

Steals Per Game

Terrence RODERICK
  Immobiliare SR
  (195-G/F-88)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Roderick, Immobi.	3.5
2. Achara, Barcellona	2.9
3. Farabello, N.Fer.	2.8
4. Smith, Trenkwalder	2.7
5. Lollis, Immobili.	2.6
6. Davis, Scafati .	2.6
7. Williams, Snaidero.	2.5
8. Hunter, Scafati .	2.4
9. Di Giuliomar., Umana R.	2.4
10. Ebi, Aget IM	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Jarvis VARNADO
  Tuscany PT
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Varnado, Tuscany PT	3.8
2. Maggioli, Jesi	1.3
3. Ebi, Aget IM	1.0
4. Frosini, Trenkwalder	0.9
5. Boykin, Assigeco	0.9
6. Kotti, N.Ferrara	0.9
7. Cutolo, San Severo	0.8
8. Chiacig, Scafati .	0.8
9. Bryan, Umana Reyer	0.8
10. Slay, Umana Reyer	0.7

(188-G-85, college: Memphis) was a key player for the hosts draining 27 points. Nihad Dedovic

(196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) also had very important role adding 16 points and 5 boards, while Ali Traore

(207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) helped with 12 pts and 5 rebs. In defeat, Joseph Gomis

(180-G-78) had 19 points and 5 rebs. Brian Greene

JAPAN

New import players join JBL teams - by J.D. Greene
According to Aisin's homepage, the Seahorses have replaced veteran Josh Gross with former NBA player Richard Frahm

(196-G-77, college: Gonzaga). Gross, who is 27, was diagnosed with an injury to his right foot which kept him from continuing on with the Seahorses this season.
Frahm, a thirty three year old guard has played on several NBA teams in the course of his career (among them, Portland Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves, LA Clippers), though many of those opportunities were cut short due to injuries or being waived. More recently, Fraham participated on D-League teams including the Reno Bighorns (2009-10) where he averaged 13.5 points and 2.6 rebounds in 17 games.

Rera Kamuy has also made a change with one of their import players. Chris Ayer, who played in 14 games, averaging 7.4 points and 5.5 rebounds has left the team, bringing in former Hokkaido player, Jai Lewis. Lewis played for Hokkaido during the 2008-09 season but did not return for the following season. After that, he played in both the Philipines and Israel. No reason was provided on Rera's website for Ayer's exit.

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

KUWAIT

Standings

D1 Standings

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

D1 Round 9: Al Tadhamon defeats leader Al Qadsia - by Eurobasket News
D1 round 9 most important game was a victory of Al Tadhamon over second-best Al Qadsia 83-71. Al Tadhamon (3-3) jumped to the fifth spot. Al Qadsia dropped to the third position with 3-1 record. Al Tadhamon is looking forward to face Al Sahel (#8) in the next round. Al Qadsia will have a break next round.
Another very easy game for undefeated Kazma (4-0) which played on the court of Al Shabab (1-4). Third ranked Kazma crushed hosts with a record 34 points 106-72. Kazma is a new league leader. Al Shabab dropped to the tenth position. They have the same record like Al Salmiyah. Kazma's will play against Al Jahraa (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Al Shabab will play against the league's second-placed Al Arabi (#2) to get more than just one victory in their record.
An interesting game was also tough road loss of 5th ranked Al Sahel (#5) versus Al Kuwait.The latter (2-0) jumped to the sixth spot. They share the position with Al Jahraa. Al Sahel dropped to the eighth position with 2-2 record. Al Kuwait will meet at home Al Salmiyah (#10) in the next round. Al Sahel will play against Al Tadhamon and hope to secure a win.

In the last game of round 9 Al Salmiyah was beaten by An Nasr on the road 85-69.

Al Shabab - Kazma 72-106

Another very easy game for undefeated Kazma (4-0) which played on the court of Al Shabab (1-4). Third ranked Kazma crushed hosts with a record 34 points 106-72. Kazma is a new league leader. Al Shabab dropped to the tenth position. They have the same record like Al Salmiyah. Kazma's will play against Al Jahraa (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Al Shabab will play against the league's second-placed Al Arabi (#2) to get more than just one victory in their record.

Al Tadhamon - Al Qadsia 83-71

D1 round 9 most important game was a victory of Al Tadhamon over second-best Al Qadsia 83-71. Al Tadhamon (3-3) jumped to the fifth spot. Al Qadsia dropped to the third position with 3-1 record. Al Tadhamon is looking forward to face Al Sahel (#8) in the next round. Al Qadsia will have a break next round.

An Nasr - Al Salmiyah 85-69

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked An Nasr (3-2) beat 10th ranked Al Salmiyah (1-4) 85-69. An Nasr jumped to the fourth spot. Al Salmiyah keeps the tenth position. They have the same record like Al Shabab. An Nasr will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Al Salmiyah will play against Al Kuwait (#7) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.

Al Kuwait - Al Sahel 90-79

An interesting game was also tough road loss of 5th ranked Al Sahel (#5) versus Al Kuwait.The latter (2-0) jumped to the sixth spot. They share the position with Al Jahraa. Al Sahel dropped to the eighth position with 2-2 record. Al Kuwait will meet at home Al Salmiyah (#10) in the next round. Al Sahel will play against Al Tadhamon and hope to secure a win.

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

LATVIA

VEF Riga released Willjam and Grafs - by Emiliano
VEF Riga officially announced the release of Latvian International player Raitis Grafs

(208-C-81, college: Valparaiso) and American guard Derek Willjam

(185-G-85, college: SMU). Grafs, as we anticipated was not seen by coach Kurtinaitis in the roster of the team while Willjam, at his first season as a pro, was averaging 6.5ppg in Baltic League with 2.6 assists, 9.2ppg and 5apg in VTB League and 17.3ppg and 2.3apg in Eurocup.
Willjam landed in Latvia from Southern Methodist University with whom he averaged 16.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.7apg, FG: 43.8%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 75.7% in 31 games played last season.
Grafs in the season was recording averages of 2.7ppg and 1.8rpg in Baltic League, 3ppg in VTB and 10.3ppg in Latvian league with BK VEF Riga

LBL Round 9: Liepaja beats Valmiera by 3 after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
LBL round 9 closest game was a victory of Liepaja (#3) over 6th ranked Valmiera. Liepaja managed to escape with only 3-point win 77-74 ending at the same time the series of three consecutive victories of Valmiera. It was a good game for the former international swingman Mareks Jurevicus (198-85) who led his team to a victory with 34 points (!!!), 5 rebounds and 4 assists. International center Jurijs Aleksejevs (204-85) contributed with 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Raimonds Gabrans (188-84) answered with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (made all of his seven free throws) for Valmiera. Liepaja (6-2) has a solid series of three victories in a row. They did not change their third position in the standings. Valmiera keeps the sixth position with 3-5 record. Liepaja is looking forward to face Turiba (#7) on the road in the next round. Valmiera will have a break next round.
Another interesting game was also a derby match between two teams from Riga: VEF Riga jrs (#2) and LU (#8). LU was defeated at home 66-76 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Russian center Ivans Nelyubov (207-88) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and Andrejs Selakovs chipped in 13 points and 13 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Zanis Peiners (203-90) with 10 points and 7 rebounds. VEF Riga jrs (7-3) did not change their second position in the standings. LU still at the very bottom with 0-9 record. VEF Riga jrs' supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga Barons.
An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 2nd ranked VEF Riga jrs in a game versus Turiba (#7) 73-84. Martins Motivans nailed a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. Turiba's coach Peteris Visnevics used a eleven-player rotation which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. Ivans Nelyubov came up with 26 points and 8 rebounds for VEF Riga jrs in the defeat. Turiba (3-6) did not change their seventh position in the standings. VEF Riga jrs keeps the second position with 7-3 record. Turiba will meet higher ranked Liepaja (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. VEF Riga jrs' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga Barons.

In the last two games of round 9 Barons was beaten by Zemgale on the road 75-68. Valmiera won against Barons at it's own court 77-72.

Valmiera - Liepaja 74-77

LBL round 9 closest game was a victory of Liepaja (#3) over 6th ranked Valmiera. Liepaja managed to escape with only 3-point win 77-74 ending at the same time the series of three consecutive victories of Valmiera. It was a good game for the former international swingman Mareks Jurevicus (198-85) who led his team to a victory with 34 points (!!!), 5 rebounds and 4 assists. International center Jurijs Aleksejevs (204-85) contributed with 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Raimonds Gabrans (188-84) answered with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (made all of his seven free throws) and the former international power forward Pavels Veselovs (207-83, agent: Luciano Capicchioni) added 18 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Valmiera. Liepaja (6-2) has a solid series of three victories in a row. They did not change their third position in the standings. Valmiera keeps the sixth position with 3-5 record. Liepaja is looking forward to face Turiba (#7) on the road in the next round. Valmiera will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
BK Valmiera: R.Gabrans 19+5reb+6ast, P.Veselovs 18+6reb+1ast, J.Kaufmanis 16+6reb+2ast, O.Virsis 9+3reb+1ast, M.Ziedins 7+3reb, J.Graudins 5+2reb+2ast
Liepajas Lauvas: M.Jurevicus 34+5reb+4ast, J.Aleksejevs 15+8reb, A.Mitchell 9+2ast, M.Mejeris 7+10reb, J.Kosuskins 6+4reb+2ast, K.Miglinieks 2

Turiba - VEF Riga jrs 84-73

An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 2nd ranked VEF Riga jrs in a game versus Turiba (#7) 73-84. Forward Martins Motivans (196-88) nailed a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side and forward Lauris Mizis (196-89) accounted for 22 points. Turiba's coach Peteris Visnevics used a eleven-player rotation which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. Russian center Ivans Nelyubov (207-88) came up with 26 points and 8 rebounds and international center Andrejs Selakovs (210-88) added 12 points and 17 rebounds respectively for VEF Riga jrs in the defeat. Turiba (3-6) did not change their seventh position in the standings. VEF Riga jrs keeps the second position with 7-3 record. Turiba will meet higher ranked Liepaja (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. VEF Riga jrs' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga Barons.
Top scorers:
VEF Riga jrs: I.Nelyubov 26+8reb+1ast, K.Mediss 14+4reb, A.Selakovs 12+17reb+1ast, M.Gulbis 11+2reb, J.Gailitis 8+3reb+1ast, R.Magone 2+4reb+2ast
Turiba: L.Mizis 22+4reb+2ast, J.Dilevka 18+5reb+3ast, M.Motivans 14+12reb+3ast, M.Steinbergs 12+4reb+7ast, J.Lasmanis 6+3reb+2ast, R.Mednis 6+6reb

Zemgale - Barons 75-68

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fourth ranked Zemgale's (6-5) home victory over 5th ranked Barons (4-5) in Jelgava 75-68. It was a good game for the former international guard Ilmars Bergmanis (184-81) who led his team to a victory with 22 points. Guard Kristaps Kanbergs (190-88) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Zemgale's coach Varis Krumins used a ten-player rotation which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Corey Lowe (188-88, college: Boston U.) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and the former international center Martins Skirmants (205-77, agent: Luciano Capicchioni) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Barons. Zemgale did not change their fourth position in the standings. Barons (last year champion) keeps the fifth position. Zemgale will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Barons' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riga to the arena VEF Riga jrs.
Top scorers:
Barons: C.Lowe 17+10reb, M.Skirmants 16+7reb, A.Butjankovs 10+11reb, A.Vitols 8+3reb+3ast, R.Feldmanis 7+3reb+2ast, A.Cavars 6+5reb+1ast
Zemgale: I.Bergmanis 22+3reb+3ast, K.Kanbergs 17+2reb+1ast, S.Wilson 11+7reb+1ast, A.Brunins 6+1reb+2ast, J.Rozitis 4+11reb, S.Metra 4+8reb+4ast

Valmiera - Barons 77-72

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 5th ranked Barons (4-5) lost on the road to sixth ranked Valmiera (3-5) 77-72. It was a good game for the former international power forward Pavels Veselovs (207-83, agent: Luciano Capicchioni) who led his team to a victory with 25 points and 9 rebounds. Center Janis Graudins (201-78) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Center Artjoms Butjankovs (205-91) answered with 15 points and 9 rebounds and forward Agnis Cavars (198-86) added 18 points respectively for Barons. Valmiera (3-5) has a solid series of three victories in a row. They did not change their sixth position in the standings. Barons (last year champion) keeps the fifth position. Valmiera will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Barons' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Riga to the arena VEF Riga jrs.
Top scorers:
BK Barons Riga: A.Cavars 18+3reb+1ast, A.Butjankovs 15+9reb+1ast, R.Feldmanis 15+2reb+5ast, C.Lowe 13+5reb+1ast, J.Timma 7+5reb+1ast, M.Skirmants 2+6reb
BK Valmiera: P.Veselovs 25+9reb+2ast, J.Berzins 12+4reb, J.Graudins 12+11reb+2ast, K.Bedritis 9, J.Kaufmanis 9+4reb+3ast, R.Gabrans 8+5reb+6ast

LU - VEF Riga jrs 66-76

Another interesting game was also a derby match between two teams from Riga: VEF Riga jrs (#2) and LU (#8). LU was defeated at home 66-76 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Russian center Ivans Nelyubov (207-88) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and international center Andrejs Selakovs (210-88) chipped in 13 points and 13 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Zanis Peiners (203-90) with 10 points and 7 rebounds and forward Harijs Rubenis (199-91) scored 6 points and 9 rebounds. VEF Riga jrs (7-3) did not change their second position in the standings. LU still at the very bottom with 0-9 record. VEF Riga jrs' supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Riga Barons.
Top scorers:
Latvijas Universitate: E.Tukiss 12+2reb+1ast, E.Tukiss 12+2reb+1ast, Z.Peiners 10+7reb+3ast, R.Rozitis 8+4reb, E.Volkops 8+3reb+1ast, H.Rubenis 6+9reb
BK VEF Riga junior team: M.Laksa 19+5reb, I.Nelyubov 17+11reb+1ast, D.Bertans 15+2reb+5ast, A.Selakovs 13+13reb, M.Gulbis 4+2reb, J.Gailitis 4+6reb+5ast

LBL D2 Round 8: Ventspils Aug. loses to Zemgale/Jun. - by Eurobasket News
Round 8 most important game was a home victory of 8-ranked Zemgale/Jun. (4-5) over third-ranked Ventspils Aug. (5-3), who beat host in Jelgava 85-77. Zemgale/Jun. did not change their eighth position in the standings. Ventspils Aug. dropped to the fourth position. They have the same record like ASK/Buki. Zemgale/Jun. is looking forward to face bottom-ranked VEF Kadeti (#12) in Riga in the next round. Ventspils Aug. will play on the road against BS Daugava (#7) and is hoping to win this game.
Another very easy game for Jurmala (7-1) which played in Riga against Barons/Ridzene (2-7). First ranked Jurmala crushed hosts with a record 27 points 91-64. Jurmala (7-1) has a solid series of four victories in a row comparing to four consecutive losses by Barons/Ridzene. They of course still keep top position in the standings. Barons/Ridzene keeps the ninth position. Jurmala's will play against league's second-placed Saldus at home in the next round and they do belong to the favorites in that game. Barons/Ridzene will play against Livani (#11) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Important to mention another loss for outsider VEF Kadeti, who are unable to win a single game so far. This time they lost in a game versus fourth ranked BS Ogre 61-78 in Ogre. BS Ogre (6-2) jumped to the third spot. VEF Kadeti still at the very bottom with 0-6 record. They have the same record like Livani. BS Ogre will meet at home ASK/Buki (#5) in the next round. VEF Kadeti will play against Zemgale/Jun. (#8) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

In the last game of round 8 Saldus smashed BS Daugava on the road 63-50.

BS Daugava - Saldus 50-63

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Saldus (6-1) beat 7th ranked BS Daugava (4-4) in Daugavapils 63-50. Saldus (6-1) has a solid series of three victories in a row. They did not change their second position in the standings. BS Daugava keeps the seventh position. Saldus is looking forward to face league's leader Jurmala at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. BS Daugava will play against Ventspils Aug. (#4) and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.

Zemgale/Jun. - Ventspils Aug. 85-77

Round 8 most important game was ahome victory of 8-ranked Zemgale/Jun. (4-5) over third-ranked Ventspils Aug. (5-3), who beat host in Jelgava 85-77. Zemgale/Jun. did not change their eighth position in the standings. Ventspils Aug. dropped to the fourth position. They have the same record like ASK/Buki. Zemgale/Jun. is looking forward to face bottom-ranked VEF Kadeti (#12) in Riga in the next round. Ventspils Aug. will play on the road against BS Daugava (#7) and is hoping to win this game.

BS Ogre - VEF Kadeti 78-61

Important to mention another loss for outsider VEF Kadeti, who are unable to win a single game so far. This time they lost in a game versus fourth ranked BS Ogre 61-78 in Ogre. BS Ogre (6-2) jumped to the third spot. VEF Kadeti still at the very bottom with 0-6 record. They have the same record like Livani. BS Ogre will meet at home ASK/Buki (#5) in the next round. VEF Kadeti will play against Zemgale/Jun. (#8) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

Barons/Ridzene - Jurmala 64-91

Another very easy game for Jurmala (7-1) which played in Riga against Barons/Ridzene (2-7). First ranked Jurmala crushed hosts with a record 27 points 91-64. Jurmala (7-1) has a solid series of four victories in a row comparing to four consecutive losses by Barons/Ridzene. They of course still keep top position in the standings. Barons/Ridzene keeps the ninth position. Jurmala's will play against league's second-placed Saldus at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Barons/Ridzene will play against Livani (#11) and hope to get back on the winning track.

Raitis Grafs set to leave VEF Riga - by Emiliano
Latvian International Raitis Grafs

(208-C-81, college: Valparaiso) will be available shortly. Coach Rimas Kurtinaitis (agency: Interperformances ) just did not see a place for him in his playing system in VEF Riga, but commended his work ethic and his current form. Grafs landed in the Latvian capital in 2006/07 when he signed a contract with ASK Riga. Last season he was with BC Siauliai averaging 5.3ppg, 2.5rpg in 4 Eurocup games, 8.1ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 55.2%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 73.6% in 21 Baltic league matches and 7.8ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT-3 (91.2%) in 26 games in LKL.
In the summer Grafs has played the qualifications to European Championships with Latvian NT recording averages of 5.8ppg, 1.8rpg, FGP: 68.8%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 66.7% in five games.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mareks JUREVICUS
  Liepaja
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 22.1

1. Jurevicus, Liepaja	22.1
2. Veselovs, Valmiera	18.3
3. Bergmanis, Zemgale	17.3
4. Laksa, VEF Riga jrs	16.8
5. Bertans, VEF R.	16.7
6. Lowe, Barons	16.0
7. Wilson, Zemgale	15.8
8. Cipruss, Valmiera	15.6
9. Berzins, VEF R.	15.0
10. Stimac, Ventspils	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Avila
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Cipruss, Valmiera	10.4
2. Berzins, VEF R.	8.5
3. Mednis, Turiba	8.3
4. Stimac, Ventspils	7.7
5. Selakovs, VEF R.	7.5
6. Wilson, Zemgale	7.3
7. Grafs, VEF Riga jrs	7.3
8. Veselovs, Valmiera	7.2
9. Aleksejevs, Liepaja	6.9
10. Nelyubov, VEF R.	6.8

Assists Per Game

Mareks JUREVICUS
  Liepaja
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 4.9

1. Jurevicus, Liepaja	4.9
2. Strelnieks, Ventspils	4.7
3. Bertans, VEF R.	4.5
4. Mason, Ventspils	4.0
5. Gailitis, VEF R.	3.9
6. Bergmanis, Zemgale	3.9
7. Sirsnins, Barons	3.8
8. Piternieks, LU	3.5
9. Feldmanis, Barons	3.2
10. Lowe, Barons	2.8

Steals Per Game

Mareks JUREVICUS
  Liepaja
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Jurevicus, Liepaja	2.6
2. Lowe, Barons	2.4
3. Mitchell, Liepaja	2.3
4. Bertans, VEF R.	2.3
5. Gailitis, VEF R.	2.1
6. Strelnieks, Ventspils	2.0
7. Mednis, Turiba	1.8
8. Jahovics, VEF R.	1.8
9. Cavars, Barons	1.8
10. Slisans, LU	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Kaspars BERZINS
  VEF Riga
  (213-F/C-85)
  Avg: 4

1. Berzins, VEF R.	4.0
2. Rozitis, Zemgale	2.4
3. Cipruss, Valmiera	1.6
4. Brunins, Zemgale	1.3
5. Beard, Liepaja	1.0
6. Bertans, Barons	1.0
7. Skirmants, Barons	0.9
8. Mednis, Turiba	0.8
9. Piternieks, LU	0.7
10. Jurevicus, Liepaja	0.6

LBL Standing

LBL Standings

1. Ventspils		7-1
2. VEF Riga jrs		7-3
3. Liepaja		6-2
4. Zemgale		6-5
5. Barons		4-5
6. Valmiera		3-5
7. Turiba		3-6
8. LU		0-9
Play in international cups:
1. VEF Riga		-

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

LEBANON

Standings - Division A

Div.A Standings

1. Champville		9-0
2. Al Riyadi		7-2
3. Sagesse		6-2
4. Moutahed		5-4
5. Anibal		4-5
6. Hoops		3-6
7. Antranik		3-6
8. Chabab		2-7
9. Byblos		1-8

Div.A Round 10: Easy game for Al Riyadi which smashes Chabab by 40 points - by Eurobasket News
The most interesting game of round 10 in the Div.A was road a defeat of 8th ranked Chabab by third ranked Al Riyadi who outscored them by 40 points 65-105. American center Loren Woods (218-78, college: Arizona)had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds to led the charge for the winners and international swingman Jean Abed El Nour (197-83, agent: Paul Atallah) chipped in 21 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American power forward Marc Dawson (206-83, college: Long Beach St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches gave a chance to bench players which allowed their starters a little rest before the next games. Chabab (2-7) added fourth loss to their record. The victory allowed Al Riyadi (7-2) to climb to second place. Chabab who is 2-7 is currently in eighth position. Al Riyadi is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Byblos (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Chabab will play against Antranik and is hoping to prove to their fans that they can break losing series.
League top team - Champville (9-0) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat ninth ranked Byblos 113-103. The former international forward Fadi El Khatib (199-79, agent: Paul Atallah) notched 38 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 7 assists (made all of his seven free throws) to lead the effort and Jasmon Youngblood who supported him with 30 points and 6 assists. Even a double-double by scoring 39 points (!!!) and 24 rebounds by the former international forward Calvin Warner (201-80, college: Jacksonville) did not help to save the game for Byblos. Champville (9-0) have an impressive series of five victories in a row comparing to four consecutive losses by Byblos. Champville stay at first position. Byblos who is 1-8 is currently on the bottom place. Champville's will play against Anibal (#5) in the next round. Byblos will play against the league's second-placed Al Riyadi (#2) to get more than just one victory in their record.

In the last two games of round 10 Moutahed won against Anibal on the opponent's court 83-76. Hoops managed to outperform Antranik in a home game 69-65.

Anibal - Moutahed 76-83
The game between closely ranked teams ended with 5th ranked Anibal's (4-5) home loss to fourth ranked Moutahed (5-4) 76-83. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Lavell Payne (203-85, college: Cent.Florida, agent: Hirant Manakian) had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds to led the charge for the winners and guard Austin Johnson (191-87, college: Oklahoma) chipped in 18 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists. At the losing side forward Terrence Shannon (203-79, college: Elgin CC, agent: Jose F. Paris) responded with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and swingman Benjamin Raymond (198-87, college: Xavier, agent: Brian Elfus) scored 26 points. Despite the victory Moutahed stay at fourth position. Anibal who is 4-5 is currently in fifth place as they suffered their fifth loss. Moutahed is looking forward to face higher ranked Sagesse (#3) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Anibal will play against the league's new leader Champville and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Anibal: B.Raymond 26+3reb+1ast, T.Shannon 22+10reb+1ast, R.Samaha 12+5reb+1ast, R.Akl 8+7reb+1ast, J.El-Murr 8+5reb+2ast, C.Tabet 0+1reb
Moutahed: L.Payne 25+10reb+1ast, A.Johnson 18+6reb+10ast, B.Bawji 17+8reb, M.Fahes 12+3reb+1ast, E.Roustom 9+4reb+5ast, B.Balaa 2+1reb

Hoops - Antranik 69-65
We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when seventh ranked Hoops (3-6) defeated 6th ranked Antranik (3-6) 69-65. American guard Calvin Cage (183-84, college: Buffalo) scored 19 points and 6 rebounds to led the charge for the winners and the other American import swingman William Byrd (201-85, college: Arkansas-Pine Bluff) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side international forward Ali Kanaan (206-85, college: Mass.-Lowell, agent: Paul Atallah) responded with 7 points and 16 rebounds and American power forward Malcolm Battles (205-79, college: N.Mexico) scored 14 points and 8 rebounds. The victory allowed Hoops (3-6) to climb to sixth place. They share it with defeated Antranik. Hoops will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Antranik will play against Chabab (#8) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Antranik Beirut: M.Battles 14+8reb+2ast, N.Souaid 8+3reb+2ast, A.Kanaan 7+16reb+2ast, M.Ziadeh 6+8reb, A.Feghali 2, R.Farraj 2+3reb
Hoops Club: C.Cage 19+6reb+3ast, W.Byrd 14+7reb+2ast, H.Kansou 13+8reb+1ast, B.Soaid 10+5reb+2ast, A.Eid 7+2reb+3ast, R.Abou Jawdeh 4+3reb+3ast

Al Riyadi - Chabab 105-65
The most interesting game of round 10 in the Div.A was road a defeat of 8th ranked Chabab by third ranked Al Riyadi who outscored them by 40 points 65-105. American center Loren Woods (218-78, college: Arizona) had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds to led the charge for the winners and international swingman Jean Abed El Nour (197-83, agent: Paul Atallah) chipped in 21 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side American power forward Marc Dawson (206-83, college: Long Beach St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and guard Hassan Lakiss (-87) scored 20 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches gave a chance to bench players which allowed their starters a little rest before the next games. Chabab (2-7) added fourth loss to their record. The victory allowed Al Riyadi (7-2) to climb to second place. Chabab who is 2-7 is currently in eighth position. Al Riyadi is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Byblos (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Chabab will play against Antranik and is hoping to prove to their fans that they can break losing series.
Top scorers:
Chabab - Zahle: H.Lakiss 20+3reb+3ast, M.Dawson 16+11reb+1ast, M.Akkad 9+2ast, E.Clemons 8+3reb+2ast, Y.Kassem 4+8reb+1ast, R.Akiki 4+3reb+1ast
Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut: J.Abed El Nour 21+6reb+2ast, L.Woods 20+13reb+1ast, D.Tarver 16+4reb+4ast, A.Saoud 13+4reb+1ast, J.Vogel 10+10reb+1ast, A.Fakhreddine 10+6reb+2ast

Byblos - Champville 103-113
League top team - Champville (9-0) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat ninth ranked Byblos 113-103. The former international forward Fadi El Khatib (199-79, agent: Paul Atallah) notched 38 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 7 assists (made all of his seven free throws) to lead the effort and American guard Jasmon Youngblood (195-84, college: Kent St.) who supported him with 30 points and 6 assists. Even a double-double by scoring 39 points (!!!) and 24 rebounds by the former international forward Calvin Warner (201-80, college: Jacksonville) did not help to save the game for Byblos. Champville (9-0) have an impressive series of five victories in a row comparing to four consecutive losses by Byblos. Champville stay at first position. Byblos who is 1-8 is currently on the bottom place. Champville's will play against Anibal (#5) in the next round. Byblos will play against the league's second-placed Al Riyadi (#2) to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Byblos: C.Warner 39+24reb+3ast, A.Barada 18+4reb+4ast, T.Aamar 13+2reb+3ast, S.Moucharef 13+11reb+3ast, R.Rizk 10+1reb+1ast, B.Mason 8+4reb+10ast
Champville: F.El Khatib 38+7reb+7ast, J.Youngblood 30+1reb+6ast, M.Mneimneh 12+8reb+4ast, P.Bou Abboud 10+2reb, C.Sarkis 9+3reb+3ast, N.Hawi 2+4reb+3ast

Chabab signs Radenko Orlovic as head coach!! - by Rabih Khoury
After releasing Aleksandar Vrzhina, Chabab team management assigned assistant coach Charbel Dib to be the head coach of the team for the time being. Then, the management decided to sign with Serbian coach Radenko Orlovic (agency: 011 Sports ) who coached in Syria last year. Orlovic have also a good experience in Middle East especially in Iran where he coached many seasons there. His best season in Iran was with Mahram ion 2006-2007 where the team finished in third place and won the DubaiTournament in 2007!!
Orlovic will arrive tonight to Lebanon to take his new position.

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Fadi EL KHATIB
  Champville
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 28.8

1. El Khatib, Champville	28.8
2. Shannon, Anibal	24.4
3. Cage, Hoops	22.0
4. Warner, Byblos	22.0
5. Byrd, Hoops	21.1
6. Zachery, Antranik	20.7
7. Battles, Antranik	20.6
8. Thompson, Sagesse	20.3
9. Abed El Nour, Al Ri.	19.8
10. Youngblood, Champ.	19.1

Rebounds Per Game

Loren WOODS
  Al Riyadi
  (218-C-78)
  Avg: 17.1

1. Woods, Al Riyadi	17.1
2. Warner, Byblos	13.0
3. Thompson, Sagesse	12.9
4. Dawson, Chabab	11.7
5. Battles, Antranik	11.4
6. Okosa, Moutahed	11.3
7. Payne, Moutahed	11.0
8. Byrd, Hoops	10.9
9. Allen, Champville	10.7
10. Kanaan, Antranik	10.4

Assists Per Game

Austin JOHNSON
  Moutahed
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Johnson, Moutahed	8.5
2. Mason, Byblos	8.3
3. Akl, Anibal	6.8
4. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi	5.9
5. Clemons, Chabab	4.4
6. Fahed, Sagesse	4.1
7. Roustom, Moutahed	4.1
8. Youngblood, Champ.	3.9
9. Cage, Hoops	3.7
10. Khoury, Sagesse	3.6

Steals Per Game

Enique CLEMONS
  Chabab
  (180-G-80)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Clemons, Chabab	3.9
2. Roustom, Moutahed	2.8
3. Youngblood, Champ.	2.7
4. Byrd, Hoops	2.6
5. Martinez, Champville	2.1
6. Khoury, Sagesse	2.0
7. Fahed, Sagesse	1.9
8. Cantrell, Byblos	1.8
9. Cage, Hoops	1.8
10. Zachery, Antranik	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Rammel ALLEN
  Pioneros
  (210-C-79)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Allen, Champville	3.7
2. Woods, Al Riyadi	2.4
3. Watkins, Sagesse	2.3
4. Thompson, Sagesse	1.9
5. Hamdar, Hoops	1.6
6. Shannon, Anibal	1.4
7. Dawson, Chabab	1.3
8. Payne, Moutahed	1.3
9. Warner, Byblos	1.3
10. Okosa, Moutahed	1.3

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

LITHUANIA

Standings - LKL

LKL Standings

1. Zalgiris		8-0
2. Rudupis		7-2
3. Juventus		6-3
4. Techasas		6-3
5. Lietuvos Rytas		5-1
6. Nevezis		4-4
7. Aiscai Kaunas		4-5
8. Siauliai		3-2
9. Naglis-Adakris		3-5
10. Neptunas		3-6
11. Perlas		2-6
12. Sakalai		1-7
13. Alytus Alita		0-8

NKL Round 17: Pieno Zvaigzdes beats Radviliskis by 3 after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
Radviliskis (#2) were beaten by Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys. Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to secure only three-point victory 83-80. But their fans expected easier game. Guard Gintautas Vileita (194-75, college: Monmouth) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points. Forward Nerijus Varnelis (200-78) contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Guard Zilvinas Kuklierius (180-85) answered with 20 points and 7 assists for Radviliskis. Pieno Zvaigzdes (15-1) have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They of course still keep top position in the standings. Radviliskis dropped to the third position with 11-5 record. They have the same record like Zalgiris-Sabonio and LKKA-Atletas. Pieno Zvaigzdes is looking forward to face ABRO-Univ. (#10) in Siauliai in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Radviliskis will play at home against Delikatesas (#14) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
An interesting game was also tough home defeat of 7th ranked Triobet Malsta in a very close 1-point game versus fifth ranked LKKA-Atletas 93-94 in Jonava. Vidmantas Sragauskis nailed 31 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. Vytautas Kruzikas came up with 25 points and 5 assists for Triobet Malsta in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. LKKA-Atletas (11-5) jumped to the third spot. They share the position with Zalgiris-Sabonio and Radviliskis. Triobet Malsta dropped to the ninth position with 7-8 record. LKKA-Atletas will meet Mazeikiai (#6) on the road in the next round. Triobet Malsta will play against Puntukas and hope to secure a win.
Meresta (#3) crushed in an easy home game 11th ranked Silute with 32-point difference (biggest in this round) 89-57. The best player for the winners was Mindaugas Kumpis who scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. Meresta (12-4) jumped to the second spot. Silute keeps the eleventh position with 5-11 record. Meresta's opponent will be Zalgiris-Sabonio (#4) in Kaunas in the next round. Silute will play at home against Erelita (#15).

There were no big surprises in other games of round 17: Perlas-MRU smashed Delikatesas on the road 82-74. Nafta Universitetas destroyed Akademija at it's own court 77-58. ABRO-Univ. outscored Erelita in Kaunas 87-67.
The most impressive performance of 17th round was 30 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists by Povilas Rasamavicius of ABRO-Univ..

Triobet Malsta - LKKA-Atletas 93-94

An interesting game was also tough home defeat of 7th ranked Triobet Malsta in a very close 1-point game versus fifth ranked LKKA-Atletas 93-94 in Jonava. Forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) nailed 31 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) accounted for 30 points and 6 assists. Forward Vytautas Kruzikas (199-89) came up with 25 points and 5 assists and forward Henrikas Vorotnikovas (202-90) added 17 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Triobet Malsta in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. LKKA-Atletas (11-5) jumped to the third spot. They share the position with Zalgiris-Sabonio and Radviliskis. Triobet Malsta dropped to the ninth position with 7-8 record. LKKA-Atletas will meet Mazeikiai (#6) on the road in the next round. Triobet Malsta will play against Puntukas and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Triobet Malsta: V.Kruzikas 25+3reb+5ast, H.Vorotnikovas 17+7reb+1ast, A.Sakalauskas 15+4reb+2ast, T.Sebeziovas 11+5reb+2ast, M.Guzauskis 6+4reb+1ast, T.Milinskas 6+5reb+2ast
LKKA-Atletas: V.Sragauskis 31+6reb+2ast, S.Vingelis 30+2reb+6ast, T.Tamosiunas 9+3reb, T.Urbonas 7+5reb+1ast, D.Gricius 7+2reb+1ast, E.Tviraga 5+2reb+1ast

Mazeikiai - Zalgiris-Sabonio 75-76

Zalgiris-Sabonio earned a narrow road win over Mazeikai. Cizauskas stepped up with 18 points to lead the visitors. Skucas contributed 15 points, while Kupsas tallied 14 points and 10 rebounds as the winners improved at 11-5 record. Sidlauskas provided 16 points for Mazeikai as they slipped at 9-7 record in the sixth position in the standings.

Top scorers:
Mazeikiai: M.Sidlauskas 16+1reb+2ast, V.Gabsys 12+6reb+1ast, B.Harrison 11+8reb+8ast, D.Vaitelis 11+5reb+1ast, A.Vaskys 9+1reb, M.Sumskis 9+2reb+1ast
Zalgiris-Sabonio: V.Cizauskas 18+4reb+4ast, Z.Skucas 15+7reb, M.Kupsas 14+10reb+2ast, G.Zyle 8+4reb, E.Ulanovas 6+1reb+1ast, M.Rutkauskas 6+5reb

Meresta - Silute 89-57

Meresta (#3) crushed in an easy home game 11th ranked Silute with 32-point difference (biggest in this round) 89-57. The best player for the winners was forward Mindaugas Kumpis (202-82) who scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Vytautas Padgureckas (186-85) chipped in 9 points and 10 assists. Guard Evaldas Jurkus (190-84) produced 21 points and 6 rebounds and guard Mindaugas Mockus (195-80) added 6 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. Silute lost their fifth straight game in a row. Meresta (12-4) jumped to the second spot. Silute keeps the eleventh position with 5-11 record. Meresta's opponent will be Zalgiris-Sabonio (#4) in Kaunas in the next round. Silute will play at home against Erelita (#15).
Top scorers:
Silute: E.Jurkus 21+6reb, R.Dimiciukas 7+1reb+1ast, M.Mockus 6+5reb+2ast, E.Ramanauskas 5+2reb, J.Cesnavicius 5+2reb+2ast, E.Kaupaitis 5+1reb+1ast
Meresta: S.Raziulis 17+3ast, S.Slivka 13+4reb+2ast, M.Kumpis 13+8reb+3ast, L.Radavicius 10+2reb+2ast, V.Padgureckas 9+3reb+10ast, A.Danusevicius 8+6reb+2ast

Pieno Zvaigzdes - Radviliskis 83-80

Radviliskis (#2) were beaten by Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys. Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to secure only three-point victory 83-80. But their fans expected easier game. Guard Gintautas Vileita (194-75, college: Monmouth) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points. Forward Nerijus Varnelis (200-78) contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Guard Zilvinas Kuklierius (180-85) answered with 20 points and 7 assists and Nigerian forward Azeez Oladimeji (204-89) added 13 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Radviliskis. Pieno Zvaigzdes (15-1) have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They of course still keep top position in the standings. Radviliskis dropped to the third position with 11-5 record. They have the same record like Zalgiris-Sabonio and LKKA-Atletas. Pieno Zvaigzdes is looking forward to face ABRO-Univ. (#10) in Siauliai in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Radviliskis will play at home against Delikatesas (#14) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Radviliskis: Z.Kuklierius 20+2reb+7ast, M.Binza 15+5reb+1ast, A.Oladimeji 13+8reb+3ast, M.Pukinskas 12+10reb+2ast, L.Valantinas 7+2reb+1ast, R.Rauktys 7+2reb+1ast
Pieno Zvaigzdes: G.Vileita 23+2reb+2ast, N.Varnelis 17+5reb+3ast, M.Mundadi 16+4reb+3ast, R.Trakimas 12+9reb, M.Virbalas 10, D.Leonard 4+6reb+4ast

Delikatesas - Perlas-MRU 74-82

No shocking result in a game when ninth ranked Perlas-MRU (8-8) beat 14th ranked Delikatesas (4-12) in Joniskis 82-74. Forward Karolis Brusokas (200-91) orchestrated the victory by scoring a double-double by scoring 16 points and 22 rebounds. Swingman Laurynas Jacevicius (193-88) contributed with 26 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Zilvinas Petraitis (194-88) answered with 36 points (!!!) and center Julius Jucikas (205-89) added 14 points and 14 rebounds respectively for Delikatesas. The victory was the third consecutive win for Perlas-MRU. They jumped to the seventh spot. They share the position with Nafta Universitetas. Delikatesas dropped to the thirteenth position. They have the same record like Akademija and Erelita. Perlas-MRU is looking forward to face Nafta Universitetas (#7) in Klaipeda in the next round. Delikatesas will play at home against Radviliskis (#3) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Delikatesas: Z.Petraitis 36+1reb+2ast, J.Jucikas 14+14reb, R.Stankevicius 11+5reb+2ast, L.Kutra 8+4reb+2ast, P.Klemas 3+1reb+2ast, M.Keras 2+4reb
Perlas-MRU: L.Jacevicius 26+9reb+3ast, K.Brusokas 16+22reb+1ast, M.Kazonas 13+7reb+1ast, A.Gorskovas 10+4reb+2ast, P.Semaska 9+2reb+1ast, T.Padegimas 5

Nafta Universitetas - Akademija 77-58

Very expected game when 13th ranked Akademija (4-12) was smashed by eighth ranked Nafta Universitetas (8-8) in Klaipeda 77-58. Guard Aurimas Bulsis (196-91) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Donatas Norkus (196-90) contributed with 13 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Forward Osvaldas Olisevicius (196-93) answered with 16 points and forward Tomas Lekunas (195-93) added 9 points respectively for Akademija. Akademija's coach rotated twelve players which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. Akademija lost their fifth straight game in a row. Nafta Universitetas jumped to the seventh spot. They share the position with Perlas-MRU. Akademija keeps the thirteenth position. They have the same record like Delikatesas and Erelita. Nafta Universitetas is looking forward to face Perlas-MRU (#8) in Vilnius in the next round. Akademija will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Akademija: O.Olisevicius 16+4reb, T.Lekunas 9+2reb+2ast, M.Paliukenas 8+2reb, K.Alekna 7+1reb+1ast, R.Jukonis 4+1reb+1ast, P.Lescinskas 4
Nafta Universitetas: A.Bulsis 18+7reb, D.Norkus 13+6reb+1ast, D.Anuzis 9+3reb+3ast, V.Chodosovskis 9+8reb, T.Mazelis 8+3reb+1ast, D.Stanisauskas 6+3reb+1ast

Erelita - ABRO-Univ. 67-87

Very predictable result when tenth ranked ABRO-Univ. (6-10) rolled over 15th ranked Erelita (4-12) in Kaunas 87-67. Swingman Povilas Rasamavicius (195-87) orchestrated the victory by scoring 30 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) contributed with 13 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. Guard Matas Lisajevicius (190-91) answered with 15 points and 5 rebounds and center Nerijus Barauskas (207-92) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Erelita. Erelita's coach Vitoldas Masalskis rotated eleven players which allowed his starters a little rest for the next games. Erelita lost their third straight game. ABRO-Univ. did not change their tenth position in the standings. Erelita keeps the last position. They have the same record like Delikatesas and Akademija. ABRO-Univ. is looking forward to face league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Erelita will play at home against Silute (#11) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
Top scorers:
Erelita: M.Lisajevicius 15+5reb+1ast, N.Barauskas 14+7reb, M.Mackevicius 9+4reb, M.Sapiega 8+2reb+6ast, A.Saulys 6+2reb, V.Pliauga 6+1reb+1ast
ABRO-Univ.: P.Rasamavicius 30+9reb+5ast, P.Knyza 15+7reb+2ast, A.Kvedaravicius 13+5reb+8ast, I.Ramasauskas 11+9reb, V.Liutych 6+5reb, A.Gurklys 6+8reb+2ast

Standings - NKL

NKL Standings

1. Pieno Zvaigzdes		15-1
2. Meresta		12-4
3. Radviliskis		11-5
4. Zalgiris-Sabonio		11-5
5. LKKA-Atletas		11-5
6. Mazeikiai		9-7
7. Nafta Universitetas		8-8
8. Perlas-MRU		8-8
9. Triobet Malsta		7-8
10. ABRO-Univ.		6-10
11. Silute		5-11
12. Puntukas		4-11
13. Akademija		4-12
14. Delikatesas		4-12
15. Erelita		4-12

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 20.7

1. Kieza, Juventus	20.7
2. Alijevas, Nevezis	19.3
3. Volkus, Techasas	19.0
4. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris	19.0
5. Janavicius, Siauliai	19.0
6. Bajramovic, Lietuv.	18.3
7. Dimsa, Nevezis	16.9
8. Viskontas, Perlas	16.9
9. Juskevicius, Rudupis	16.2
10. Dilys, Naglis-Adakris	16.1

Rebounds Per Game

Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 13.6

1. Kieza, Juventus	13.6
2. Sarakauskas, Siauliai	11.2
3. Silinskis, Techasas	8.3
4. Valanciunas, Lietuv.	7.8
5. Dimsa, Nevezis	7.5
6. Zelionis, Rudupis	7.2
7. Vasylius, Neptunas	6.7
8. Klimavicius, Zalgiris	6.6
9. Adomavicius, Alytus A.	6.5
10. Jankunas, Zalgiris	6.5

Assists Per Game

Adas JUSKEVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (194-G/F-89)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Juskevicius, Rudupis	5.7
2. Collins, Zalgiris	5.6
3. Alijevas, Nevezis	5.6
4. Rinkevicius, Techasas	5.6
5. Janavicius, Siauliai	5.3
6. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	5.0
7. El-Amin, Lietuvos.	5.0
8. Dainys, Rudupis	4.8
9. Ezerskis, Techasas	4.6
10. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris	4.3

Steals Per Game

Valdas VASYLIUS
  Neptunas
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Vasylius, Neptunas	2.5
2. Viskontas, Perlas	2.4
3. Rinkevicius, Techasas	2.2
4. Valukonis, Techasas	2.2
5. Razutis, Naglis-A.	2.1
6. Juskevicius, Rudupis	2.1
7. Newley, Lietuvos.	2.0
8. Janavicius, Siauliai	2.0
9. Alijevas, Nevezis	1.9
10. Sirvydis, Sakalai	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Darius SILINSKIS
  Techasas
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Silinskis, Techasas	2.7
2. Begic, Zalgiris	2.4
3. Valanciunas, Lietuv.	2.2
4. Cresnar, Nevezis	1.8
5. Klimavicius, Zalgiris	1.3
6. Galdikas, Neptunas	1.2
7. Jankauskas, Rudupis	1.1
8. Volkus, Techasas	1.1
9. Butkevicius, Rudupis	1.0
10. Kieza, Juventus	1.0

Stats Leaders - NKL

Points Per Game

Vidmantas SRAGAUSKIS
  LKKA-Atletas
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 24.1

1. Sragauskis, LKKA-.	24.1
2. Vingelis, LKKA-.	22.0
3. Petraitis, Delikate.	20.0
4. Tarvydas, Puntukas	19.3
5. Jurkus, Silute	19.3
6. Sebeziovas, Triobe.	18.3
7. Vileita, Pieno Z.	17.6
8. Cizauskas, Zalgir.	16.6
9. Mineikis, Radviliskis	15.7
10. Kaupaitis, Silute	15.1

Rebounds Per Game

Vaidas CEPUKAITIS
  Juventus
  (207-C-89)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Cepukaitis, Zalgir.	10.5
2. Mockevicius, Akade.	10.3
3. Oladimeji, Radvilis.	9.9
4. Galdikas, Puntukas	9.3
5. Keras, Delikatesas	8.9
6. Pupinis, Erelita	7.7
7. Mineikis, Radviliskis	7.3
8. Nedzinskas, Silute	7.0
9. Kazakauskas, Nafta U.	6.9
10. Kaupaitis, Silute	6.6

Assists Per Game

Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 6

1. Harrison, Mazeikiai	6.0
2. Vingelis, LKKA-.	5.5
3. Sapiega, Erelita	5.0
4. Leonard, Pieno Z.	5.0
5. Cizauskas, Zalgir.	4.2
6. Kuklierius, Radvilis.	4.1
7. Kutra, Delikatesas	3.8
8. Zymantas, Nafta U.	3.7
9. Malasauskas, LKKA-.	3.6
10. Vileita, Pieno Z.	3.6

Steals Per Game

Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Harrison, Mazeikiai	3.4
2. Metelica, Erelita	3.2
3. Vileita, Pieno Z.	3.1
4. Zymantas, Nafta U.	2.7
5. Pupinis, Erelita	2.7
6. Kutra, Delikatesas	2.6
7. Padgureckas, Meres.	2.5
8. Slivka, Meresta	2.4
9. Petraitis, Delikate.	2.4
10. Sapiega, Erelita	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Ovidijus GALDIKAS
  Puntukas
  (217-C-88)
  Avg: 3

1. Galdikas, Puntukas	3.0
2. Mockevicius, Akade.	3.0
3. Kupsas, Zalgir.	1.8
4. Urbonas, LK.	1.7
5. Pupinis, Erelita	1.7
6. Mankevicius, Erelita	1.5
7. Cepukaitis, Zalgir.	1.4
8. Zyle, Zalgiris.	1.1
9. Jucikas, Delikatesas	1.1
10. Oladimeji, Radvilis.	1.0

Maccabi Electra wins in Kaunas, qualifies for Top 16 - by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris - Maccabi Electra 68-71

Maccabi Electra had great finish in Kaunas celebrating sixth Euroleague win this season. It means that Maccabi stays on top of Group A with two wins more than the second ranked Zalgiris (4-3). Sofoklis Schortsanitis

(206-C-85) scored 22 points and pulled down 6 rebounds for 25 minutes on the court. Doron Perkins (188-G-83, college: Santa Clara) helped with 20 points and 7 boards. For the hosts, Tomas Delininkaitis

(192-G-82, agency: Interperformances), Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke), Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) and Mirza Begic (216-C-85) had 10 points each.
Zalgiris opened the game better as they made 7-3 and few minutes later 14-7 lead. Visitors woke up after that and replied with 0-9 run. Mirza Begic and Martynas Pocius shined for Zalgiris in the finish of Q1 lifting their team to 21-18. The hosts made plus 5 at the beginning of Q2, but later Maccabi took care for 28-29 turn. Teams exchanged baskets after that and thanks to dunk by Jeremy Pargo, Maccabi Electra went on the break with minimum lead, 34-35. Visitor jumped to plus six at the halfway of third period, but Zalgiris responded with 20-11 for rest of the quarter, 56-53. Maccabi was in trouble when Zalgiris reached 62-54 in 36th minute, but they didnt panic. Sofoklis Schortsanitis stepped up for the guests and was unstoppable in the paint. Mostly thanks to him and Pargo, Maccabi made quick turn 66-67. Zalgiris players were committing mistakes in the finish and after big triple by Eidson from the right corner it was clear who the winner of the night will be.
In the next round, Maccabi Electra will host Partizan. Zalgiris goes to Poland.

Zalgiris: Tomas Delininkaitis 10, Martynas Pocius 10, Mantas Kalnietis 10, Mirza Begic 10
Macabi Electra: Sofoklis Schortsanitis 22+6 boards, Doron Perkins 20+7 boards

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

MEXICO

Standings - LNBP

LNBP Standings

1. Pioneros		20-6
2. Halc.Xalapa		20-6
3. Fuerza Regia		19-7
4. Toros		19-7
5. Angeles		18-8
6. Huracanes		18-9
7. Halc.Rojos		17-10
8. Lobos Grises		16-11
9. Soles		15-12
10. Ola Verde		14-13
11. Lechugueros		14-13
12. Potros		11-16
13. Panteras		10-15
14. Algodoneros		8-17
15. Titanes		7-19
16. Abejas		7-19
17. Jaguares		1-23
18. Volcanes		1-25

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

MOLDOVA

Moldova. D1, 2010-2011. Round 5 update. - by Andrei Ciausov
BC Patriot, Tiraspol - BCUASM Chisinau

It was a very good game for Noviiciuc from BC Patriot, Tiraspol, who played probably his best season game scoring 37 points, which appeared to be 65% of all points of his team !!!
BC Patriot, Tiraspol lost their 4th game, while BCUASM Chisinau continued with the 5th win. Vladimir Priscepnii (200-F/G-88) scored the most points for BCUASM Chisinau reaching 24 points. Not bad for 22 year old forward.�

BC Ribnita, Ribnita - BC Donduseni, Donduseni

Being lead by their coach Evgeniy Abaza� (192-F/G-78), who was helping a team as a player today, BC Ribnita, Ribnita had a comfortable win by 13 points. Evgeniy Abaza scoring the most: 28 points at his 32 years. Victor Ziubin� (198-F-81) scored 24 for BC Donduseni, Donduseni. Interesring to mention that Victor Ziubin played for BC Ribnita, Ribnita last season, which leadership could think it was not wise to let him leave the team. Final score: 91-78 for BC Ribnita, Ribnita.

BC Gamma, Cahul - BC UTM, Chisinau
It should've been an easy walk for BC UTM, Chisinau playing against BC Gamma, Cahul remembering their 100 points difference defeat from last week, but it was not. After a great
start 24-7 in first quarter, followed by 26-15 in the second BC UTM, Chisinau could not come back. As the result BC Gamma, Cahul won 95-70. Alexei Ghimpu (188-G-75) was the best shooter for BC Gamma, Cahul scoring 19.�

BC ASEM Chisinau - BC Soroca, Soroca

BC Soroca, Soroca was able to resist mighty team from Chisinau only in the first quarter which ended 13-13. Then it was Evgheni Nartov (200-F-87) time who scored 33 points in the game and helped his team to finish well, booking their 4th win in 4 games. Only two teams have won all their games so far, BCUASM Chisinau and BC ASEM Chisinau, the first one though played 5 games already. All smells like these two will decide who gets the title this year. Will see.�

Standings

D1 Standings

1. UASM		5-0
2. ASEM		4-0
3. Ribnita		3-2
4. Fire Ball		2-2
5. Gamma		2-2
6. Donduseni		2-2
7. Soroca		2-3
8. UTM		1-4
9. Patriot		0-4

Moldova. D1, 2010-2011. Round 4 update. - by Andrei Ciausov
20/11/2010

BC ASEM Chisinau - BC Fire Ball, Bender

The game was so tight. At half time BC Fire Ball, Bender was leading 42-40, which is an amazing fact itself, knowing that BC ASEM Chisinau is hoping for a title this year. The
crushual was a third quarter, which BC ASEM Chisinau won 32-16. Overall score 90-78 for BC ASEM Chisinau.

BC UTM, Chisinau - BC Ribnita, Ribnita

Both teams were on fire for a win. If we would not consider third quarter the score would be 50-52 for BC Ribnita, Ribnita. But the game has 4 quarters, the thrid one was better
played by BC UTM, Chisinau, which allowed a nervouse win 71-60. Mascoliuc scored 24 for BC UTM, Chisinau. He is really the top soccer in BC UTM, Chisinau.

21/11/2010

BCUASM Chisinau - BC Gamma, Cahul

A complete disaster. 136-36 is the final score, where BC Gamma, Cahul was playing having teenagers in the team allowing BCUASM Chisinau to play on the field and do whatever
they wanted. The most misirable game/score for Cahul team ever. Nicolai Cojuhari� (187-G-92) from BCUASM Chisinau was able to score 34 points.

BC Donduseni, Donduseni - BC Soroca, Soroca

It was one of those games where you would say any team could win. Stanislav Abbasov (200-F-87) socred 21 points for BC Soroca, Soroca but it did not help his team. His partners did not help him much. 66-51 for BC Donduseni, Donduseni.

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

MOROCCO

Widad AC de Casablanca signs Zeljko Zecevic and three import players - by Emiliano
Important news for Moroccan team Widad AC de Casablanca as they hired as new head coach the Serbian Zeljko Zecevic (agency: 011 Sports ) who was at the helm of Romanian team SCM CSU Craiova. Last season the coach was in Lebanon, on the bench of Sagesse, who left in January.
The Moroccan team also signed three import players. The athletes are Montarrio Haddock (196-G/F-88, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who is at his first stint outside United States of America after his experience in NCAA with Middle Tenn.St. In his last season at college, Haddock averaged 13.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 83.6% in 32 games.
The second import is Sidney Holmes (200-F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Lewis). The forward born in 1982 spent last season in Portugal with CBP/Sentir Penafiel averaging 15.2ppg, Reb-4 (12.3rpg), Assists-5 (3.4apg), 2.5spg, FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 17.4%, FT: 54.5% in 35 games and being named Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese Proliga Player of the Year, Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese Proliga Forward of the Year, Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese Proliga Import Player of the Year and being selected to the Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese Proliga 1st Team and Eurobasket.com Portuguese Proliga All-Imports Team.
The last arrival is from Serbia as the head coach and is Aleksandar Matic

(203-F-76). The experienced player started the season in Cyprus with Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD Agios Dometios but left prior the beginning of the year.

Standings - Men

D1 Standings

1. FUS Rabat		3-0
2. ASS Sale		2-0
3. PCS Plazza C.		2-1
4. CRA Hoceima		2-1
5. RCA Casabl.		2-1
6. MAF Fez		1-1
7. RSB Berkane		1-2
8. WAC Casabl.		1-2
9. IRT Tanger		0-3
10. ASE Essaou.		0-3

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

NBA

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 Lakers	26.7
3. Rose, Chicago B.	25.8
4. Ellis, Golde S.	24.9
5. Nowitzki, Dallas M.	24.8
6. Westbrook, Oklah..	24.6
7. James, Miami Heat	24.2
8. Stoudemire, New Y.	24.1
9. Gordon, LA Clippers	24.1
10. Anthony, Denver N.	23.2

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 14.9

1. Love, Minnesota T.	14.9
2. Noah, Chicago B.	12.4
3. Evans, Toronto R.	12.1
4. Howard, Orlando M.	12.1
5. Gasol, LA Lakers	11.8
6. Randolph, Memph.	11.6
7. Griffin, LA Clipp.	11.6
8. Bogut, Milwauke.	10.9
9. Camby, Portland TB	10.7
10. Odom, LA Lakers	10.5

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 13.8

1. Rondo, Boston C.	13.8
2. Paul, N.Orleans H.	10.5
3. Williams, Utah Jazz	10.2
4. Nash, Phoenix Suns	10.0
5. Kidd, Dallas M.	9.3
6. Wall, Washington W.	9.0
7. Westbrook, Oklah..	8.6
8. Felton, New Y.	8.1
9. Rose, Chicago B.	7.9
10. James, Miami Heat	7.5

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 3

1. Paul, N.Orleans H.	3.0
2. Wall, Washington W.	2.7
3. Ellis, Golde S.	2.4
4. Curry, Golde S.	2.3
5. Conley, Memphis G.	2.3
6. Westbrook, Oklah..	2.2
7. Rondo, Boston C.	2.1
8. Felton, New Y.	2.0
9. Ginobili, San A.	1.9
10. Miller, Portland.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Darko MILICIC
  Minnesota T.
  (212-C-85)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Milicic, Minnesota T.	2.9
2. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.7
3. McGee, Washingt.	2.6
4. Howard, Orlando M.	2.4
5. Smith, Atlanta H.	2.4
6. Okafor, N.Orlean.	2.2
7. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.2
8. Dalembert, Sacram.	2.1
9. Gasol, LA Lakers	2.0
10. Chandler, New Y.	1.9

Standings

NBA Standings

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

Flynn plans to go to D-League Friday - by Eurobasket News
Minnesota point guard Jonny Flynn (6'0''-G-89, college: Syracuse) plans to report to the Timberwolves' development league affiliate in Sioux Falls, S.D., for a game on Friday as he works his way back from hip surgery.

Flynn has yet to play in a game this season. He had surgery on his left hip in July and has gradually started ramping up his workouts over the past few weeks.

The second-year point guard has been dealing with expected body soreness as the intensity has increased, but is eager to return to the court to help his young team, which lost 13 of its first 17 games heading into a game against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Raptors' Reggie Evans out two months with foot injury - by Eurobasket News
Toronto Raptors forward Reggie Evans (6'8''-F/C-80, college: Iowa) is expected to be out of action for eight weeks after having surgery on his broken right foot Wednesday. Evans suffered the injury last Friday night in Boston.

Evans is third in the NBA in rebounding, averaging 12.1 per game, including a career-high 22 against Philadelphia last Wednesday night. He has averaged 4.0 points in 27.3 minutes over 15 games this season.

Evans played in just 28 games last season after coming back from an ankle injury.

Courtesy of www.sportingnews.com

Bucks cut ties with Darington Hobson - by Eurobasket News
The Milwaukee Bucks have waived rookie guard Darington Hobson (6'7''-G/F-87, college: N.Mexico), five months after picking him in the second round of the draft.

Hobson was selected 37th overall out of New Mexico after being named Mountain West Conference Player of the Year as a junior.

But a hip injury kept the 6-foot-7 Hobson out of the Bucks' summer league games. He underwent season-ending surgery on Oct. 12.

In October, the Bucks waived another second-round pick, forward Keith 'Tiny' Gallon. Gallon was picked 47th overall.

The Bucks also said Thursday they've signed 12-year veteran center Brian Skinner. The 6-9 Skinner has played in 605 games and has career averages of 4.8 points and 4.7 rebounds. He played in all eight of the Bucks' preseason games before being waived Oct. 25.

Courtesy of ESPN

Thursday: LeBron leads Heat rout of Cavs - by Eurobasket News
Cleveland C. - Miami Heat 90-118
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) insisted it was nothing personal. The final score said otherwise. James scored a season-high 38 points - 24 in a third-quarter clinic - to lead the Miami Heat in a 118-90 blowout win over the Cavaliers, taming a hostile Cleveland crowd even before halftime Thursday night. ''I have the utmost respect for this franchise, the utmost respect for these fans,'' James said afterward. But he spent part of the second half taunting Cleveland's bench. The game that mattered most to the franchise turned into its worst loss of the season so far. ''I thought he played great,'' Cavs coach Byron Scott said. ''Simple as that.'' It was James' first game back in the city where he played for seven years and won back-to-back MVP awards, but failed to win an NBA championship. Before the game, fans peppered him with obscene chants and booed every time he appeared on the giant TV screens beneath the scoreboard. They held up signs that read, ''Quitness'' and ''Play Like It's Game Five'' - a reference to his playoff failure against Boston last season, when many fans - and owner Dan Gilbert - felt James had quit. There were five guys wearing a single letter each on their white T-shirts that spelled out: LeBum. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) added 22 points, James Jones 18 and Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) 15 for the Heat, which played its most complete game of the season to improve to 12-8. ''This is the first time I have seen this connection all year long,'' said coach Erik Spoelstra , who's come under criticism for the team's slow start. Daniel Gibson scored 21 for the Cavaliers, who have lost six of eight and now play seven of their next eight on the road. James had 10 more points than Cleveland's starting lineup, including half during a 16-0 first-quarter run that immediately knocked the Cavaliers back. Ahead by 19 at the half, the Heat poured it, shooting 73 percent from the field in the third quarter. James went 10 of 12 during that stretch and Wade hit all four of his attempts. James sat on the bench for all of the fourth quarter, with dozens of security guards and police lining the team's entrance to the court and guarding against objects thrown at him. After the clock ran out, he left without incident. Throughout the game, James frequently bantered with his former coaches and fans at courtside. ''I turned one time and he was down there, talking,'' Scott said. ''That's what he does most games. He talks to most guys on the bench.'' The early spurt left a crowd of 20,562 with nothing left to cheer except James' occasional missed shot. He didn't miss many, finishing 15 of 25 from the field, to go with eight assists and five rebounds. He never apologized to Cleveland or its fans, but said he appreciated the way he was treated as a young pro. ''So many things went through my mind,'' James said. ''I have nothing bad to say about these fans at all. We grew from the year before I got here, a 17-win season to the last two years I was here, we had the best team in the league in the regular season. I understand their frustration. I was frustrated also because we didn't accomplish what we wanted to. I wish this organization and these fans, who are great, the best.'' Cleveland native and game show host Drew Carey, Browns icon Bernie Kosar, Indians slugger Travis Hafner and most of the current Browns were cheered wildly when they made their way to courtside seats. Cincinnati Bengals receiver Terrell Owens even was in attendance. By far, the loudest cheers were saved for Cavs owner Dan Gilbert, who had ripped James after his decision, saying he quit on the Cavaliers during their season-ending playoff series with the Celtics last spring. It didn't take long for the Heat to find their sense of urgency. ''It felt like a playoff game for us,'' Spoelstra said. *Courtesy of www.comcast.com

Golde State W. - Phoenix Suns 101-107
Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) scored 25 points against his former team and Grant Hill added 24 to lead the Phoenix Suns to a 107-101 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night. Steve Nash (6'3''-G-74, college: Santa Clara) added 13 points and matched his season high with 16 assists as the Suns beat Golden State for the ninth time in 11 meetings. Channing Frye had 10 points, matching his career best with a 10th straight double-figure game, and grabbed 10 rebounds. Monta Ellis (6'4''-G-85) scored 38 points for the Warriors, who have lost four straight at home and seven of eight overall. David Lee added 25 points and Dorell Wright had 10 points and a season-high 10 rebounds. The Suns led 52-49 at the half. The teams both surpassed the century mark for the 18th straight time in their series, dating to January, 2006. Richardson and Hill combined to shoot 73 percent (19 of 26) from the field, while the rest of the team combined for 44.6 percent. Phoenix took a 75-72 lead into the fourth quarter. Jared Dudley sank a pair of free throws with 6:53 remaining to put the Suns up 93-79, their biggest lead of the night. The Warriors scored the next 10 points, with Rodney Carney capping the rally with a 3-pointer from the corner. Ellis missed a pair of free throws that would have closed the gap to one and the Suns took advantage to pad their lead. The Warriors never got any closer. The Suns scored the final nine points of the first quarter to open a 31-20 advantage. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Bucks sign Brian Skinner - by Eurobasket News
The Milwaukee Bucks have signed veteran center Brian Skinner (6'10''-F-76, college: Baylor) to a contract, General Manager John Hammond announced today.

A 12-year NBA veteran, Skinner has played in 605 games and holds career averages of 4.8 points and 4.7 rebounds while shooting 49.4 percent from the field. He played in all eight 2010 preseason games for Milwaukee and averaged 1.5 points and 3.6 rebounds in 11.6 minutes per game before being waived on October 25. Skinner spent the 2009-10 season with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he played in 16 games.

Skinner, 34, was selected by the Clippers with the 22nd overall pick in the 1998 NBA Draft, and spent the first three years of his career in Los Angeles. He has also played for Cleveland, Philadelphia, Sacramento, Portland, Phoenix and two seasons with Milwaukee (2003-04 and 2006-07). He enjoyed his best statistical season in 2003-04 when he averaged 10.5 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 56 games with the Bucks.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

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NIGERIA

NORWAY

Mullenax number one in Norway for round 12 - by Eurobasket News
American forward Taylor Mullenax (201-F-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Ulriken Eagles, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 24-year old player had a double-double of 27 points and 19 rebounds, while his team beat Froya (#7, 3-9) 76-62. Ulriken maintains the 3rd position in Norwegian BLNO. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Ulriken will need more victories to improve their 7-3 record. In the team's last game Mullenax had a remarkable 66.7% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Ulriken and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Former St.Edward's, TX star has very solid stats this year. Mullenax is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 11.9rpg) and averages impressive 61.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Peter Bullock (198-F/C-82) of Gimle BBK Bergen. Bullock had a very good evening with a double-double of 21 points and 21 rebounds. Of course he lead Gimle to another comfortable win 89-76 over slightly lower-ranked Kristiansand (#6, 4-7) being unquestionably team leader. This victory allowed Gimle to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-6 record. Bullock is well-known at Gimle and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 23.8ppg (#4). His other stats are also decent: 12.8rpg and 4.8apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Donald Oatis (206-F/C-79) of Baerum Basket (#4). Oatis scored 28 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Baerum, leading his team to a 111-95 easy win against #1 ranked Tromso in a game of the week. Baerum needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 6 victories and 6 lost games. Oatis has a great season in Norway. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.5ppg (9th best) and rebounds with 11.2rpg (3rd best). He also has 3.4bpg and FGP: 68.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Magne Fivelstad (196-G/F-89) of Ulriken - 23 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Antonio Russell (183-G-84) of Kristiansand - 31 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Taylor Mullenax (201-F-86) of Ulriken - 14 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Mustafa Mahnin (182-G-80) of Asker - 31 points and 9 rebounds
8. Audun Eskeland (175-G-85) of Ulriken - 27 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Gerald January (201-F-88) of Tromso - 24 points and 3 rebounds
10. Gerald January (201-F-88) of Tromso - 22 points and 8 rebounds

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, 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) - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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PARAGUAY

PARAGUAYAN 2010 Champions - by Santiago Maciel

This 2010 has been very active for Paraguayan Basketball, although we have to say the Game it is stil in transition from old model managing to a a new technology oriented managing system.
The presence of Basketball on CABLE TV since 2007 to now has revolutionized many aspoects of CPB organization and proyection and also some teams are taking advantage of that option. TV presence brought to our game many SPONSORS interested to support the game and of course some only interested in the TV space it brings out.
This year calendar is about to finish , only U17 and U14 METROS are to define this coming week including a couple of female categories also. All principle categories have finished and here we present the list of this 2010 CHAMPIONS.

74th SUPER FINAL CHAMPION: Sol de America Asuncion
3rd NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPION: Sol de America Asuncion
TOP 5 PROFESSIONAL CHAMPION: Libertad
3RD ESTADIO COMUNEROS CHAMPION: Cerro Porteno
U19 METRO CHAMPION: Libertad
FEMALE METRO CHAMP: Olimpia.
U 15 METRO BOYS CHAMPION: Sol de America Asuncion

Winningest COACH: Juan Pablo Feliu (COMUNEROS, NATIONAL LEAGUE, SUPER FINAL and U15 METRO)

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PBL

Halifax Rainmen sign Josh Dollard - by Eurobasket News
Today, the Halifax Rainmen signed a contract with forward Joshua Dollard (6'8''-F-86, college: USC Aiken).

Last season, Dollard played in the Premier Basketball League with the Vermont Frost Heaves. Prior to his PBL debut, Dollard played at the Auburn University and at South Carolina-Aiken.

'Josh will bring some added toughness and scoring in the paint,' said Halifax Rainmen President & CEO, Andre Levingston.

Dollard is the sixth player to earn a contract with the Rainmen for the 2010/11 season.

The Rainmen will kick off their fourth season with the Rogers Slam Dunk Fan Night at the Halifax Metro Centre on Thursday, December 16 at 7 pm. For the latest Halifax Rainmen news, please visit www.rainmenbasketball.ca.

Courtesy of The Halifax Rainmen

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PHILIPPINES

PORTUGAL

Standings - Proliga

Proliga Standings

1. Barcelos		5-0
2. Fisica		3-1
3. Sangalhos		3-1
4. Angra		3-2
5. Galitos FC		2-2
6. Guifoes		2-2
7. Electrico FC		2-2
8. Povoa		2-2
9. Maia Basket		2-2
10. Terceira Basket		1-3
11. Alges		0-4
12. Seixal		0-4

Portuguese Cup: Benfica beats Gaeirense - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Full house in Gaeiras to see the champions Sport Lisboa Benfica beat the home team, the non-league Gaeirense Basket, by 59-89.

The home players started with a 8-0, but Sport Lisboa Benfica showed their superiority and reached the end of the first quarter winning by 16-23. After that, the reds were always stronger and manage to consolidate the advantage.

The MVP was Antonio Tavares (183-G-75), with 23 points. Elvis Evora

(205-C-78, agency: Global Sports Plaza) (19 points), Filipo Tome (F) (15 points) and Tomas Emidio (195-F-85) (11 points) were also noted as good scorers in this game.

Gaeirense Basket (59): Joao Luis, Pedro Rochete (9), Tomas Emidio (11), Filipo Tome (15), Filipe Canha (10); Tome Francisco, Antonio Chambell (2), Edgar Pereira (6), Alexandre Parreira, Paulo Coincas, Joao Feliciano e Miguel Ribeiro (6)
Head Coach: Nuno Agostinho

Sport Lisboa Benfica (89): Antonio Tavares (23), Rodrigo Mascarenhas (8), Miguel Minhava (7), Elvis Evora (19), Francisco Jordao (12); Diogo Carreira (14), Joao Ferreirinho (6)
Head Coach: Henrique Vieira

Scoreboard: 16-23; 13-24; 21-26; 9-16.

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ROMANIA

Round 13 preview - by Sebastian Umbrich
The matches of Round 13 of the Romanian championship will be played on Saturday, December 4th and Sunday, December 5th. Let's have a look for whom the number 13 will be lucky, and for whom unlucky.

First match: CSU Cuadripol SCM Brasov vs. CSM Oradea
Date and time: 4th December, 17:00
Venue: 'Forex' Arena, Brasov
Referees: Marius Epure, Adrian Habor, Bogdan Badea
The prologue of the round will be a relative disproportioned clash. CSU Cuadripol SCM Brasov, a team built up from youngsters will meet CSM Oradea, a team which objective is to compete in the play-offs. These two teams have a rich history, and out of the 10 matches played one against another, brasov and CSM Oradea shared victories, as well in the regular season as in the Romanian Cup. It is likely for CSM Oradea to win this match, as they proved to be a very powerful team, defeating CSU Sibiu 88-70 in a match played on Tuesday, counting for round 5. Last round, CSU Cuadripol SCM Brasov lost on the road 74-102 against SCM CSU Craiova, while CSM Oradea lost on home ground 67-83 against a very powerful team, CS Gaz Metan Medias. Before this round, CSU Cuadripol SCM Brasov was ranked 14th (1-11 record), while CSM Oradea was ranked 7th (7-4 record).

Second match: CS Otopeni vs. BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall, Otopeni
Referees: Mircea Serban, Cosmin Prisca, Sefer Bedir
This will be a relative disproportioned match as well. CS Otopeni, a team with oscillating performances this season meets on home ground BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc, a newcomer. As a result, this will be the first official meeting between these 2 teams. It is likely for CS Otopeni to win this match, given the fact that one and a half months have past since BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciucs last, and to this time single, win. Last round CS Otopeni lost on the road, 64-77 against CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca, while BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc did not play, because they played this rounds match earlier this year, in October. After 12 matches played, CS Otopeni is ranked 11th (5-7 record) while BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc is ranked 15th (1-11 record).

Third match: Politehnica Iasi vs. CSU Sibiu
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall, Iasi
Referees: Alexandru Anica, Vlad Potra, Ciprian Ciocan
Even though CSU Sibiu has one of the worst starts someone could have imagined, they now have the occasion, and most probably they will, to win another match. They are facing on the road Politehnica Iasi, a team whose goal is to avoid relegation, and in a relative acute financial crisis. Only 2 meetings have taken place between these 2 teams, because Politehnica Iasi spent only one season in the first division, and both meetings have been won by CSU Sibiu. It is likely for CSU Sibiu to keep invincibility against Politehnica Iasi even after Saturdays match. Last round Politehnica Iasi lost on the road 69-100 against BC Arges Pitesti and CSU Sibiu won on home ground 80-72 against CS Municipal Bucuresti. Its worth saying that on Tuesday CSU Sibiu lost on the road against CSM Oradea, 70-88, in a match counting for round 5, and in this match, Michael Harrison

(206-F/C-84, agency: Interperformances) has been injured. Before this round Politehnica Iasi was ranked 16th (last) with 1-10 record, while CSU Sibiu was ranked 8th (6-6 record).

Fourth match: CS Gaz Metan Medias vs. CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall
Referees: Laurentiu Grigoras, Alin Mircea Faur, Liviu Ionita
This match will be a very interesting match to watch. CS Gaz Metan Medias and CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu are two teams which play a high-quality basketball. But it looks that CS Gaz Metan Medias will win this match without many difficulties. The naming of Laurentiu Grigoras as a referee caused a bit of controversion, because out of the 12 round yet, he was referee at 6 of CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jius matches, but no one can say that he offered an advantage (or disadvantage) to the team from the Gorj County. 4 matches have been played between CS Gaz Metan Medias and CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu and 3 out of them have been won by CS Gaz Metan Medias. It is most likely that CS Gaz Metan Medias will extend their lead to 4-1 after this rounds match. Last round CS Gaz Metan Medias won on the road against CSM Oradea, 83-69 and CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu lost on home ground against BC Mures Targu-Mures, 71-79. After 12 matches played, CS Gaz Metan Medias is ranked 4th (9-3 record), while CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu is ranked 9th (6-6 record).

Fifth match: BC Timisoara vs. SCM CSU Craiova
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: 'Constantin Jude' sports hall, Timisoara
Referees: Doru Vinasi, Bogdan Podar, Alin Rosu
This will be a very balanced match, even if BC Timisoaras roster looks more powerful than SCM CSU Craiova, but SCM CSU Craiova proved that it can win against higher-ranked teams, examples are CSU Sibiu or CSU Asesoft Ploiesti, while BC Timisoara proved that it can surprisingly lose against low-ranked teams like BC Perla Harghitei Miercurea Ciuc. All of the 4 matches played between these 2 teams during the regular season were won by BC Timisoara, while the victories in the Cup have been shared, one for each side. Last round BC Timisoara did not play because they played this rounds match earlier this year, in October, while SCM CSU Craiova rolled over CSU Cuadripol SCM Brasov, 102-74. Before this round, BC Timisoara was ranked 13th (4-8 record), while SCM CSU Craiova was ranked 12th (5-7 record).
This match can be watched online, accessing http://www.csufans.ro/chat

Sixth match: CS Municipal Bucuresti vs. CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Romanian Basketball Arena, Bucharest
Referees: Marius Ciulin, Alexandru Olaru, Sorin Drugau
The sixth match of round will be another equilibrated match: CS Municipal Bucuresti meets CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca on home ground. Given the fact that only 1 year ago CS Municipal Bucuresti promoted to the first division, there have been only 2 matches played between these 2 teams, and both of them have been won by CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca, 95-80 and 84-71. Last round CS Municipal Bucuresti lost on the road 72-80 against CSU Sibiu, while CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca won on home ground against CS Otopeni, score 77-64. Before this round, CS Municipal Bucuresti was ranked 10th (6-6 record), while CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca was ranked 5th (8-4 record).
This match will be broadcasted by TVR 3.

Seventh match: BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti vs. BC Arges Pitesti
Date and time: 4th December, 20:00
Venue: 'Mihai Viteazul' sports hall, Bucharest
Referees: Fabiana Martinescu Nitu, Ciprian Stoica, Gabriel Dima
This match will be Saturdays highlight: BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti meets on home ground BC Arges Pitesti, in what would be one of this rounds highlights. The meetings between BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti and BC Arges Pitesti have every time been close, and it is likely for Saturday evenings match to be as well. There have been played 6 meetings between BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti and BC Arges Pitesti yet, and 4 out of them have been won by BC Arges Pitesti. 2 matches took place in the Cup and the victories have been shared. But during the previous meetings, BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti did not have such a powerful roster as this year, so it may be possible for BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti to win. Last round, BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti lost against leaders CSU Asesoft Ploiesti, 53-66, in the match in which BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti scored the least number of points this season. In contrast, BC Arges Pitesti smashed Politehnica Iasi, 100-69. After 12 rounds, BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti is ranked 3rd (9-3 record), while BC Arges Pitesti is ranked 6th (7-5 record).

Eighth match: BC Mures Targu-Mures vs. CSU Asesoft Ploiesti
Date and time: 5th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall, Targu-Mures
Referees: Doru Vinasi, Laurentiu Grigoras, Ciprian Stoica
The epilogue of this round will also be the highlight of this round. The first and second ranked teams will meet in this round, and they will for sure offer a very high-quality basketball match. Of the 10 matches played between these 2 teams, CSU Asesoft Ploiesti won all of them, but it looks like this year they will have the most difficult mission until now. The same situation is in the Cup, where CSU Asesoft Ploiesti won both matches disputed against BC Mures Targu-Mures. BC Mures Targu-Mures lost on Wednesday in the EuroHold Balkan League against Mornar Bar, but Coach Csaba Deri said he feels good and confident about how BC Mures Targu-Mures had played. Last round both teams won: CSU Asesoft Ploiesti won on home ground against BC Steaua Turabo Bucuresti 66-53, while BC Mures Targu-Mures won on the road against CS Energia Rovinari Targu Jiu, 79-71. After 12 matches played, both teams are on a 10-2 record, CSU Asesoft Ploiesti being ranked first (point difference + 172) while BC Mures Targu-Mures is ranked 2nd with a point difference only of 105 points.
This match will be broadcasted by TVR 3.

Standings - D2

Div.B Standings

Seria 1
1. Timba Timis.		2-0
2. U.Mobitel II		1-0
3. MP Timisoara		1-1
4. Ph. Brasov		1-1
5. T.Mures II		1-2
6. Gaz Metan II		0-2
Seria 2
1. Dinamo B.		2-0
2. Ph. Galati		2-1
3. CSS Giurgiu		1-1
4. Municipal 2 B.		1-1
5. Steaua Turabo II		1-1
6. CSS Targoviste		0-3
Seria 3
1. CSU Galati		3-0
2. Granitur		2-0
3. Ploiesti II		1-1
4. Rapid B.		1-2
5. A.Vlaicu Buc.		0-2
6. BT Bucuresti		0-2

Round 13 preview - by Sebastian Umbrich
The matches of Round 13 of the Romanian championship will be played on Saturday, December 4th and Sunday, December 5th. Lets have a look for whom the number 13 will be lucky, and for whom unlucky.

First match: Brasov vs. Oradea
Date and time: 4th December, 17:00
Venue: Forex Arena
Referees: Marius Epure, Adrian Habor, Bogdan Badea
The prologue of the round will be a relative disproportioned clash. Brasov, a team built up from youngsters will meet CSM Oradea, a team which objective is to compete in the play-offs. These two teams have a rich history, and out of the 10 matches played one against another, brasov and Oradea shared victories, as well in the regular season as in the Romanian Cup. It is likely for Oradea to win this match, as they proved to be a very powerful team, defeating Sibiu 88-70 in a match played on Tuesday, counting for round 5. Last round, Brasov lost on the road 74-102 against Craiova, while Oradea lost on home ground 67-83 against a very powerful team, Medias. Before this round, Brasov was ranked 14th (1-11 record), while Oradea was ranked 7th (7-4 record).

Second match: Otopeni vs. Miercurea Ciuc
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall
Referees: Mircea Şerban, Cosmin Prisca, Sefer Bedir
This will be a relative disproportioned match as well. Otopeni, a team with oscillating performances this season meets on home ground Miercurea Ciuc, a newcomer. As a result, this will be the first official meeting between these 2 teams. It is likely for Otopeni to win this match, given the fact that one and a half months have past since Miercurea Ciucs last, and to this time single, win. Last round Otopeni lost on the road, 64-77 against Cluj, while Miercurea Ciuc did not play, because they played this rounds match earlier this year, in October. After 12 matches played, Otopeni is ranked 11th (5-7 record) while Miercurea Ciuc is ranked 15th (1-11 record).

Third match: Iasi vs. Sibiu
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall
Referees: Alexandru Anica, Vlad Potra, Ciprian Ciocan
Even though Sibiu has one of the worst starts someone could have imagined, they now have the occasion, and most probably they will, to win another match. They are facing on the road Iasi, a team whose goal is to avoid relegation, and in a relative acute financial crisis. Only 2 meetings have taken place between these 2 teams, because Iasi spent only one season in the first division, and both meetings have been won by Sibiu. It is likely for Sibiu to keep invincibility against Iasi even after Saturdays match. Last round Iasi lost on the road 69-100 against Pitesti and Sibiu won on home ground 80-72 against Bucuresti. Its worth saying that on Tuesday Sibiu lost on the road against Oradea, 70-88, in a match counting for round 5, and in this match, Michael Harrison has been injured. Before this round Iasi was ranked 16th (last) with 1-10 record, while Sibiu was ranked 8th (6-6 record).

Fourth match: Medias vs. Rovinari
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall
Referees: Laurenţiu Grigoraş, Alin Mircea Faur, Liviu Ioniţă
This match will be a very interesting match to watch. Medias and Rovinari are two teams which play a high-quality basketball. But it looks that Medias will win this match without many difficulties. The naming of Laurentiu Grigoras as a referee caused a bit of controversion, because out of the 12 round yet, he was referee at 6 of Rovinaris matches, but no one can say that he offered an advantage (or disadvantage) to the team from the Gorj County. 4 matches have been played between Medias and Rovinari and 3 out of them have been won by Medias. It is most likely that Medias will extend their lead to 4-1 after this rounds match. Last round Medias won on the road against Oradea, 83-69 and Rovinari lost on home ground against Mures, 71-79. After 12 matches played, Medias is ranked 4th (9-3 record), while Rovinari is ranked 9th (6-6 record).

Fifth match: Timisoara vs. Craiova
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Constantin Jude sports hall
Referees: Doru Vinasi, Bogdan Podar, Alin Roşu
This will be a very balanced match, even if Timisoaras roster looks more powerful than Craiova, but Craiova proved that it can win against higher-ranked teams, examples are Sibiu or Ploiesti, while Timisoara proved that it can surprisingly lose against low-ranked teams like Miercurea Ciuc. All of the 4 matches played between these 2 teams during the regular season were won by Timisoara, while the victories in the Cup have been shared, one for each side. Last round Timisoara did not play because they played this rounds match earlier this year, in October, while Craiova rolled over Brasov, 102-74. Before this round, Timisoara was ranked 13th (4-8 record), while Craiova was ranked 12th (5-7 record).
This match can be watched online, accessing http://www.csufans.ro/chat

Sixth match: Bucuresti vs. Cluj
Date and time: 4th December, 18:00
Venue: Romanian Basketball Arena, Bucharest
Referees: Marius Ciulin, Alexandru Olaru, Sorin Drugău
The sixth match of round will be another equilibrated match: Bucuresti meets Cluj on home ground. Given the fact that only 1 year ago Bucuresti promoted to the first division, there have been only 2 matches played between these 2 teams, and both of them have been won by Cluj, 95-80 and 84-71. Last round Bucuresti lost on the road 72-80 against Sibiu, while Cluj won on home ground against Otopeni, score 77-64. Before this round, Bucuresti was ranked 10th (6-6 record), while Cluj was ranked 5th (8-4 record).
This match will be broadcasted by TVR 3.

Seventh match: Steaua vs. Pitesti
Date and time: 4th December, 20:00
Venue: Mihai Viteazul sports hall, Bucharest
Referees: Fabiana Martinescu Nitu, Ciprian Stoica, Gabriel Dima
This match will be Saturdays highlight: Steaua meets on home ground Pitesti, in what would be one of this rounds highlights. The meetings between Steaua and Pitesti have every time been close, and it is likely for Saturday evenings match to be as well. There have been played 6 meetings between Steaua and Pitesti yet, and 4 out of them have been won by Pitesti. 2 matches took place in the Cup and the victories have been shared. But during the previous meetings, Steaua did not have such a powerful roster as this year, so it may be possible for Steaua to win. Last round, Steaua lost against leaders Ploiesti, 53-66, in the match in which Steaua scored the least number of points this season. In contrast, Pitesti smashed Iasi, 100-69. After 12 rounds, Steaua is ranked 3rd (9-3 record), while Pitesti is ranked 6th (7-5 record).

Eighth match: Mures vs. Ploiesti
Date and time: 5th December, 18:00
Venue: Sports hall
Referees: Doru Vinasi, Laurenţiu Grigoraş, Ciprian Stoica
The epilogue of this round will also be the highlight of this round. The first and second ranked teams will meet in this round, and they will for sure offer a very high-quality basketball match. Of the 10 matches played between these 2 teams, Ploiesti won all of them, but it looks like this year they will have the most difficult mission until now. The same situation is in the Cup, where Ploiesti won both matches disputed against Mures. Mures lost on Wednesday in the EuroHold Balkan League against Mornar Bar, but Coach Deri Csaba said he feels good and confident about how Mures had played. Last round both teams won: Ploiesti won on home ground against Steaua 66-53, while Mures won on the road against Rovinari, 79-71. After 12 matches played, both teams are on a 10-2 record, Ploiesti being ranked first (point difference + 172) while Mures is ranked 2nd with a point difference only of 105 points.
This match will be broadcasted by TVR 3.

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SAUDI ARABIA

D1 Standings

D1 Standings

1. Al Ahli		1-0
2. Al Ansar		1-0
3. Al Hilal		1-0
4. Al Ittihad		1-0
5. Uhod		1-0
6. Al Wahda		0-0
7. Al Maseerah		0-0
8. Al Fateh		0-1
9. Al Jabil		0-1
10. Al Nahda		0-1
11. Al Safaa		0-1
12. Al Shrooq		0-1

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SCOTLAND

National League Round 10: Glasgow Univ. defeats C.Eriksson F. in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The closest game of round 10 in the National League was only three-point road a defeat of their biggest opponent C.Eriksson F. to fourth ranked Glasgow Univ. 59-62. It ended the series of four consecutive victories of C.Eriksson F. Glasgow Univ. (7-3) has a solid series of three victories in a row. Despite the win they stay at fourth position. C.Eriksson F. who is 8-2 is currently in second place as they suffered their second loss. Glasgow Univ. is looking forward to face Stirling Knights (#5) at home in the next round. C.Eriksson F. will play against Dunfermline and is hoping to win this game.
First-ranked Edinburgh K. had no problems on the court of Stirling Knights (#5). Edinburgh K. (9-0) outscored Stirling Knights (5-5) with a record 34 points 87-53. Edinburgh K. (9-0) have an impressive series of nine victories in a row comparing to three consecutive losses by Stirling Knights. Current champion Edinburgh K. stay at first position. Stirling Knights who is 5-5 is currently in fifth place. Edinburgh K.'s will play against E.Lothian B. (#8) at East Lothian in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Stirling Knights will play at home against Glasgow Univ. and hope to get back on the winning track.

In the last two games of round 10 St.Mirren destroyed E.Lothian B. on the opponent's court 82-64. Troon Tornadoes outscored Dunfermline in a home game 96-66.

Stirling Knights - Edinburgh K. 53-87

First-ranked Edinburgh K. had no problems on the court of Stirling Knights (#5). Edinburgh K. (9-0) outscored Stirling Knights (5-5) with a record 34 points 87-53. Edinburgh K. (9-0) have an impressive series of nine victories in a row comparing to three consecutive losses by Stirling Knights. Current champion Edinburgh K. stay at first position. Stirling Knights who is 5-5 is currently in fifth place. Edinburgh K.'s will play against E.Lothian B. (#8) at East Lothian in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Stirling Knights will play at home against Glasgow Univ. and hope to get back on the winning track.

E.Lothian B. - St.Mirren 64-82

Very expected game in East Lothian where 8th ranked E.Lothian B. (2-8) was defeated by third ranked St.Mirren (7-2) 82-64. Despite the victory St.Mirren stay at third position having just four points less than leader Edinburgh K. E.Lothian B. who is 2-8 is currently in eighth place as they suffered their eighth loss. St.Mirren is looking forward to face Glasgow Storm (#9) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. E.Lothian B. will play against the league's new leader Edinburgh K. and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.

Glasgow Univ. - C.Eriksson F. 62-59

The closest game of round 10 in the National League was only three-point road a defeat of their biggest opponent C.Eriksson F. to fourth ranked Glasgow Univ. 59-62. It ended the series of four consecutive victories of C.Eriksson F. Glasgow Univ. (7-3) has a solid series of three victories in a row. Despite the win they stay at fourth position. C.Eriksson F. who is 8-2 is currently in second place as they suffered their second loss. Glasgow Univ. is looking forward to face Stirling Knights (#5) at home in the next round. C.Eriksson F. will play against Dunfermline and is hoping to win this game.

Troon Tornadoes - Dunfermline 96-66

Rather predictable result when sixth ranked Troon Tornadoes (5-5) smashed at home 9th ranked Dunfermline (1-8) 96-66. The victory allowed Troon Tornadoes (5-5) to climb to fifth place. They share it with Stirling Knights. Dunfermline who is 1-8 is currently on the bottom position as they suffered their eighth loss. Troon Tornadoes is looking forward to face Glasgow R. II (#7) on the road in the next round. Dunfermline will play against the league's second-placed C.Eriksson F. and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.

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SERBIA

Standings - A Liga

A Standings

1. FMP		10-0
2. Beograd		6-3
3. Mega Vizura		6-4
4. Sloboda Uzice		5-4
5. Napredak		5-4
6. Tamis		5-4
7. Novi Sad		5-5
8. Metalac		4-4
9. Borac		4-5
10. Vojvodina		4-6
11. Sloga		3-5
12. Crnokosa		3-6
13. Proleter Naftagas		3-6
14. Superfund		1-8
Play in international cups:
1. Crvena Zvezda		-
2. Hemofarm		-
3. Partizan		-
4. Radnicki		-

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Nikola KOPRIVICA
  Iraklis
  (200-F-88)
  Avg: 22.4

1. Koprivica, Super.	22.4
2. Janjusevic, Crnok.	21.1
3. Kruscic, Metalac	18.8
4. Milisavljevi., Mega V.	18.3
5. Dramicanin, Mega V.	18.1
6. Sulovic, Napredak	18.1
7. Bunic, Novi Sad	17.8
8. Micevic, Sloboda .	17.6
9. Bogavac, Sloga	17.3
10. Vasojevic, Borac	16.7

Rebounds Per Game

Milan BJEGOVIC
  USK Praha
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 9

1. Bjegovic, Superfund	9.0
2. Markovic, FMP	7.8
3. Sulovic, Napredak	7.0
4. Dedijer, Borac	7.0
5. Buric, Tamis	6.7
6. Matovic, Mega V.	6.6
7. Spica, Superfund	6.6
8. Cakic, Mega Vizura	6.5
9. Misanovic, Beograd	6.2
10. Djurovic, Crnokosa	6.2

Assists Per Game

Vuk RADIVOJEVIC
  FMP
  (197-G-83)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Radivojevic, FMP	6.4
2. Zarkovic, Prolet.	6.4
3. Vlahovic, Sloga	5.9
4. Milisavljevi., Mega V.	5.6
5. Covic, FMP	4.7
6. Ljubicic, Metalac	4.5
7. Djoric, Superfund	4.3
8. Radulovic, Crnokosa	4.2
9. Atanackovic, Prolet.	4.1
10. Mitrovic, Beograd	3.9

Steals Per Game

Milijan BOCKA
  Crnokosa
  (186-G-82)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Bocka, Crnokosa	3.7
2. Tresac, Borac	2.2
3. Majkic, Prolet.	2.1
4. Bunic, Novi Sad	2.0
5. Tomasevic, Vojvo.	1.9
6. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	1.9
7. Matovic, Mega V.	1.9
8. Kuzeta, Novi Sad	1.9
9. Gagovic, Prolet.	1.9
10. Djoric, Superfund	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Milan BJEGOVIC
  USK Praha
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Bjegovic, Superfund	1.7
2. Misanovic, Beograd	1.5
3. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	1.3
4. Majkic, Prolet.	1.2
5. Bircevic, Metalac	1.1
6. Ilic, FMP	1.0
7. Bozovic, Sloga	0.9
8. Arsic, Sloboda Uzice	0.8
9. Kovacevic, Super.	0.8
10. Milovanovic, FMP	0.8

(203-F-76). The experienced player started the season in Cyprus with Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD Agios Dometios but left prior the beginning of the year.

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SLOVAKIA

Martin Rancik to join Alicante? - by Eurobasket News
According to Spanish media, it seems that Alicante is looking forward to sign Slovakian international Martin Rancik

SLOVENIA

Union Olimpija hands 82-75 loss to Armani Jeans Milano - by Eurobasket News
Union Olimpija - AJ Milano 82-75

Union Olimpija celebrated 82-75 win against Armani Jeans Milano staying on top of Group D, together with Panathinaikos who also has 5-2 record. Kenny Gregory

(197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) came up with 17 points and 11 rebounds in this victory. Goran Jagodnik

(203-F-74, agency: Beo Basket) and Vlado Ilievski

(190-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency) helped with 15 and 14 points respectively. In AJ Milano, Morris Finley

(180-G-81, college: UAB) was the leading scorer with 16 points. David Hawkins

(193-G-82, college: Temple) and Niccolo Melli

(205-F-91) scored 14 and 13 pts. Their team dropped to 3-4.
Union Olimpija had wonderful beginning as they made 18-5 lead. Visitors seemed shocked by such a bad start and were not able to avoid minus 12 after ten minutes, 21-9. Nothing has changed in the second quarter as Union Olimpija was keeping the comfortable lead. Milano touched minus 7 in the finish of Q2, but the hosts replied with mini 5-2 run for 42-32 after 20 minutes. Olimpija somehow stopped after the breather and they were able to score just 9 points for the entire third period. On the other side, Morris Finley and his teammates drained 25 for 51-57 lead with 10:00 to go. Totally different picture was seen on the court later as Union Olimpija took control on Milano and after 10-0 run they grabbed 74-71 lead with less than two minutes to go. David Hawkins cut the margin to 74-73, but Vlado Ilievski and Goran Jagodnik were unmistakable from the line making all of their 8 attempts in the finish.
In the next round, Union Olimpija will meet Panathinaikos at the OAKA arena. AJ Milano will host Efes Pilsen in very important game.

Union Olimpija: Kenny Gregory 17+11 boards, Goran Jagodnik 15, Vlado Ilievski 14
AJ Milano: Morris Finley 16, David Hawkins 14, Niccolo Melli 13

Maribor win easily over Sentjur - by Zeljko Zule
Maribor outscored Sentjur, 93-72, in the opening game of Round 8. Elvis Kadic had 19 points and 7 rebounds, Tadej Horvat (190-G-84) scored 19 points on shooting 4-of-6 behind the 3-point line, Bojan Jovanovic added 12 points and Ilija Zolotic collected 10 points and 13 rebounds. Maribor trailed only at 0-1, jumping to a 18-5 lead. Sentjur was outebounded 26-40 and shot just 32-percent (21-of-65) behind the 3-point line. Dwayne Harmason finsihed with 18 points, Teo Simovic posted13 points and Dejan Hohler 10.

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

SPAIN

(213-C-77) with 15 points and 6 rebounds. Kosta Perovic

(217-C-85) and Erazem Lorbek

(209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) scored 13 and 11 points respectively. In Cholet (3-4), DeMarcus Nelson

(193-G-85, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Duke) delivered 14 points and Christophe Leonard (199-F-90) had 9 pts, plus 6 boards.
Cholet surprised Barca in the first quarter taking 9-15 lead after seven minutes. The hosts woke up immediately and replied with 9-3 run, before Vule Avdalovic closed the first period with impossible three, 18-20. Barca took control on Cholet in the second frame and after 11-1 run they jumped to 29-23. Boniface Ndong and his teammates scored 15 more points until the end of the first half, while Cholet was limited to 5 (44-28, HT). Cholet was trying to mount a comeback in Q3, but all they managed to do was 44-37. Barca answered with 17-7 until the end of Q3 for comfortable 61-44 lead with 10:00 to go. Last quarter was just the formality and Barca had no troubles to keep the comfortable lead. They even reached plus 20 at the beginning of Q4.
In the next round, Barca will meet Fenerbahce Ulker on the road. Cholet will play against Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius.

Regal Barca: Boniface Ndong 15+6 boards, Kosta Perovic 13, Erazem Lorbek 11
Cholet: DeMarcus Nelson 14, Christophe Leonard 9+6 boards

Unicaja outsmarts Real Madrid 75-71 - by Eurobasket News
Unicaja - Real Madrid 75-71

Unicaja handed 75-71 loss to Real Madrid joining them with 4-3 record in Group B. Saul Blanco

(195-G/F-85) top-scored for the Malaga team with 17 points (6 rebounds). Joel Freeland

(208-F-87) had double-double of 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Roderick Blakney

(181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) added 13 pts. For the Whites, Sergio Llull

(190-G-87) delivered 16 points and Clay Tucker

(195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) stopped to 11.
Everything started good for the Whites, who made 8-13 after five minutes. Unicaja came to minus 2 in the finish of this period, but Clay Tucker closed it with an unbelievable acrobatic buzzer-beating shot for a 16-20 Madrid lead. Mostly owing to Joel Freeland, Unicaja came to 26-27 at the halfway of the second period but than Pablo Prigioni replied with a triple. Later, Real Madrid jumped to 31-39 and Unicaja had the last possession in the first half. Archibald added a layup setting the score to 33-39 after 20 minutes. Real dominated in third period and they reached plus 9 after triple by Sergio Llull. In the finish of Q3, the Whites earned 45-55 before Archibald closed the period with a basket once again. Unicaja intensified defense in the last quarter, what resulted with quick 7-2 run. Soon after that, hosts closed the gap to 61-63 and everything was open again. With two minutes to go Unicaja grabbed 70-69 lead and visitors seemed shocked. Anyway, Tomic replied for them with a hook for 70-71. Rodriguez drained a huge triple for Unicaja in their next possession and Real Madrid picked Sergio Llull to take the last shot for them. He missed a layup and Saul Blanco was successful from the line to seal the very important victory for Unicaja.
In the next round, Unicaja will meet Olympiakos in another home game. Real Madrid will host Lottomatica Roma.

Unicaja: Saul Blanco 17+6 boards, Joel Freeland 15+10 boards, Roderick Blakney 13
Real Madrid. Sergio Llull 16, Clay Tucker 11

Martin Rancik to join Alicante? - by Eurobasket News
According to Spanish media, it seems that Alicante is looking forward to sign Slovakian international Martin Rancik

(204-F/C-78, college: Iowa St.). The club recently hired Txus Vidorreta as their new Head Coach.
Martin Rancik started the season with Bilbao and after three games he moved to Caja Laboral. There, Rancik also appeared three times in ACB averaging 3.3 points. In Euroleague his numbers increased to 9.6 ppg and 3 rpg for five games.
Alicante closes the ACB standings with just one win in nine games.

Savanovic and De Colo lead Valencia to third Euroleague win - by Eurobasket News
Valencia - Efes Pilsen 62-56

Valencia outplayed Efes Pilsen thanks to great last quarter. With this victory the Spanish outfit joined Armani Jeans Milano on position No.4 in Group D. Both teams have 3-4 record now. On the other side, Efes Pilsen dropped to third place with 4-3. Dusko Savanovic

(204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) shined for the hosts with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Nando De Colo

(202-G-87) also scored 13 pts, but to go with 5 boards, while Victor Claver

(207-F/C-88) helped his team with 10 points. In Efes Pilsen, Kerem Gonlum

(208-C/F-77) collected 12 points and 8 boards. Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) stopped to 10 pts. Valencia started the game with quick 10-2 run, before Kerem Tunceri and Igor Rakocevic replied for Efes Pilsen. Valencia had plus seven in the finish of Q1, but Nachbar closed it with a lay-up setting the score to 14-9 after ten minutes. Efes Pilsen took control on Valencia during the next period. The hosts were struggling offensively, what Kerem Gonlum and his teammates exploited to make 24-28 turn until the HT. Efes Pilsen was in charge during the entire Q3 and they reached plus 8 at the beginning of it. Valencia came to minus two once, but was not able to avoid 43-48 deficit before the last ten minutes. Than, Dusko Savanovic exploded with two triples and together with Nando De Colo and Javtokas, helped Valencia to make 53-51 turn. It was 57-56 with less than 4 minutes left when Dusko Savanovic took over with a backdoor layup and Nando De Colo sent the crowd to their feet with a critical triple, good for a 62-56 Valencia lead with 2 minutes to go. Both teams were scoreless in the finish and Valencia celebrated valuable victory.
In the next round, Valencia will meet CSKA in Moscow. Efes Pilsen goes to Milano.

Valencia: Dusko Savanovic 13+6 boards, Nando De Colo 13+5 boards, Victor Claver 10
Efes Pilsen: Kerem Gonlum 12+8 boards, Kerem Tunceri 10

Ross Schraeder first ever blog from Spain - by Ross Schraeder
So when I got the opportunity to post a blog about my experiences as a basketball player in Europe, I was excited for the opportunity to share some things, both with guys and girls who play themselves, as well as with people who are merely interested in what goes on over here. I guess I should first introduce myself. My name is Ross Schraeder (196-G-83, college: Cal-Irvine). Im from Denver, Colorado, I went to Cal-Irvine, and I am in the middle of my 5th professional season playing in LEB Oro, Spains 2nd division. I am with my 5th different team here in Spain, C.B. Tarragona 2017, and my playing days have taken me all over the country of Spain. I played my first year and a half in Huelva, an Andalucian city about as far southwest in Spain as you can get, 10 minutes from the southern coast, and 20 minutes from the Portuguese border. In the middle of my 2nd year, I changed teams and headed for the north of the country, to San Sebastian, part of the Basque Country, situated on the Bay of Biscay, just 20 minutes from the French border. After finishing the season up, in the ensuing summer, I packed my bags for Andalucia (the south) yet again to soak up some more sun and easy living. That was my 3rd season, which I spent in the small town of Los Barrios. Again within minutes of the beach, and about 15 minutes from the Rock of Gibraltar. After an enjoyable and successful season playing there, my 4th year in Spain took me to the city of Leon, about 3 hours northwest of Madrid (unfortunately not within minutes of a beach!), in the region of Castilla y Len. And with that season put away, my playing days brought me to where I am now, Tarragona, in the region of Catalonia. Were situated on the eastern coast about an hour south of Barcelona. Currently our team is having a bit of rough go, we are 3-8 at the moment, though we have won our last two games so hopefully we can turn this into a good stretch with a few more Ws. Every year that I have played in Spain I have been on a playoff team. Last year was the first year that I did not make at least the semifinals of the league playoffs. So, needless to say, this year is a bit different with where we are headed. But, we boast what has to be one of the youngest teams in the Europe I would guess. Our average age is right around 22-23 years. In my opinion, after playing in this league a few years, experience is one of the biggest keys to success, so with such a young team, we are lacking in that department. But we seem to be improving every day, learning constantly what we need to do in order to call ourselves a successful team when the end of the year arrives.
Every game in this league is a great challenge. I have seen only one other league, Italian second division where I played for 6 games before I came to Spain, but I would have to say that LEB Oro is one of the most competitive leagues in Europe top to bottom. Granted, the level has dropped off a bit this year, with the economy affecting teams abilities to bring in the level of talent that I have seen in my previous years. But there are plenty of good, young Spanish players who are new to the league, and quickly making a name for themselves. I have a feeling that more than a couple of the young players on my team will be heard from throughout Spain and Europe in the coming years.

So thats a bit about the basketball team this year. As the season goes on, I will for sure post some updates as to how we are doing and how things are progressing. But I feel that anyone who is reading this wants to know what it is really like getting to play the game of hoops in a foreign country. Well, let me tell, it is not lacking of quality stories that make you ask did that really just happen?? I can remember the very first game that I ever played in Italy. We finish the game a close loss at home and Im the shower. And after a minute or two, here comes our 38 year old Italian PG into the shower with a cigarette hanging from his lips and a cold beer in his hand. Now, as any American player knows, this is not something that you would ever see in a locker room in the states. I had heard stories about these types of things, but the first time you see it, you cant help but laugh. But the fun didnt stop there. I finished showering, exit the shower, and what do I see now? Our athletic trainer, the man in charge of our health and well-being, standing in the middle of the locker room with a cigarette in his mouth as he is wrapping ice on players. It blew my mind. Now, almost 5 years later, I take these kinds of things in stride with being a pro European hoopster. For example, when last season Im sitting in the locker room after a practice one day and I all of sudden hear some live music so I look over and see our veteran Spanish PG playing a harmonica with nothing on but his basketball shoes. I laughed, for sure, but it didnt really shock me that much.

But these are things that I will remember. For me, as a ball player over here, soaking up the culture is one of the most important aspects, if not the most important. I was told by a good friend who played European basketball in the 70s that wherever I went, I should do my best to learn the language, meet the people, and see what life has to offer me. Well I have tried to follow that advice as best as I can. I would not say that I am fluent in Spanish now (it will take a lifetime I think), but I can, indeed, communicate just fine. And I feel like I have dived into the Spanish culture as much as possible. The reason that I mentioned the regions along with all of the cities that I played in is because Spain has a very regionalistic pride to it. And I have been fortunate enough to experience many different parts of it. From the laid back attitude of the south where manaa means two weeks and la semana que viene (next week) means that it may never get done to the passionate national pride shown by the Basque people that want nothing to do with the Spanish government to the deep seated Spanish love of the everything Spain in Castilla y Len, it all has been a true joy to be a part of. And while there are many differences in political opinions among the Spaniards from different regions, the one thing that brings our teams together is basketball itself. My team two years ago consisted of a Galician coach, a Basque, a Catalan, multiple guys from Andalucia, a guy from the Canary Islands, an assistant coach from Castilla y Len, and two Americans. And while they all differed dramatically on how they felt about Spain, we were an extremely close group of guys. I think it will be the team that I remember more than any in my lifetime. And its not just the Spanish guys that I have had the privilege of getting to know. Ive been lucky enough to play with guys from all over Europe, taking in bits and pieces from each of them. It truly has been an amazing experience thus far
Well I think thats enough for my first entry. I have numerous stories that may come out little by little as I find time to update this, but we have a game tomorrow so I need to get some rest! I hope youll tune back in!! Hasta la proxima!!

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SWEDEN

Standings - Basketligan

Basketligan Standings

1. LF Basket		10-3
2. Sodertalje		9-3
3. Norrkoping		9-4
4. Sundsvall		8-4
5. Uppsala		7-6
6. Solna		6-7
7. Boras		5-6
8. 08		3-9
9. Jamtland		3-10
10. Eco Orebro		2-10

Stats Leaders - Basketligan

Points Per Game

Liam RUSH
  Sundsvall
  (202-F/G-82)
  Avg: 21.5

1. Rush, Sundsvall	21.5
2. McKnight, Boras	20.8
3. Smith, Sodertalje	20.6
4. McCoy, Boras	20.3
5. Gunnarsson, Solna	19.8
6. Smith, Uppsala	19.0
7. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	18.0
8. Klaric, Jamtland	17.7
9. Hargrove, Jamtland	17.6
10. Palm, Boras	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Hlynur BAERINGSSON
  Sundsvall
  (200-F/C-82)
  Avg: 12.9

1. Baeringsson, Sunds.	12.9
2. Kosmalski, Solna	8.9
3. McKnight, Boras	8.8
4. Palm, Boras	8.6
5. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	8.1
6. Kohlmaier, Uppsala	8.0
7. Walker, Solna	7.8
8. Hargrove, Jamtland	7.6
9. Klaric, Jamtland	7.6
10. Jonzen, Uppsala	7.5

Assists Per Game

Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Mbemba, LF Basket	6.5
2. Beck, 08	5.3
3. Pleick, Eco Orebro	5.2
4. Chuk, Sodertalje	5.0
5. Smith, Uppsala	4.6
6. Frier, Uppsala	4.5
7. Ilunga, Solna	4.5
8. Gervin, Norrkoping	4.4
9. Smith, Sodertalje	4.4
10. McCoy, Boras	4.1

Steals Per Game

Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Smith, Sodertalje	4.5
2. Mbemba, LF Basket	3.5
3. Smith, Uppsala	2.6
4. Rush, Sundsvall	2.4
5. Pleick, Eco Orebro	2.3
6. McKnight, Boras	2.3
7. Hellgren, Jamtland	2.2
8. Callier, Jamtland	2.0
9. McCoy, Boras	1.9
10. Frier, Uppsala	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Bilal SALAAM
  Jamtland
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Salaam, Jamtland	2.2
2. Palm, Boras	1.8
3. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	1.8
4. Rosendahl, LF Ba.	1.8
5. Ayuba, Norrkoping	1.5
6. Cipriano, Eco O.	1.3
7. Galick, Sodertalje	1.1
8. Levett, LF Basket	1.1
9. Saks, Norrkoping	1.0
10. Kohlmaier, Uppsala	1.0

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SWITZERLAND

Standings - LNB

LNB Standings

1. Neuchatel		9-2
2. Bernex		9-2
3. Momo Basket		7-4
4. Vevey		7-4
5. Vernier		5-5
6. Swiss Central		5-6
7. Martigny		5-6
8. Chene		5-6
9. Pully		5-7
10. Bern		4-7
11. DDV Lugano		4-7
12. Villars		4-8
13. Acad.Fribourg		3-8

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SYRIA

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. Jalaa		6-0
2. Jeish		6-0
3. Kasyoun		5-0
4. Karameh		4-1
5. Wathba		4-2
6. Wehda		4-2
7. Hurriya		2-4
8. Ittihad		2-4
9. Yarmouk		2-4
10. Meharda		0-6
11. Nawaeer		0-6
12. Talee'a		0-6

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TAIWAN

SBL imports situation - by Chris Wang
According to the Apple Daily, six of seven SBL teams have hired imports and the defending champion Yulon Luxgen is likely to enter the new season without any import again.

Imports in Taiwan (Two under testing):

Marcus Dove (206-G/F-85, college: Oklahoma St.) (Taiwan Mobile)
College: Oklahoma State
Age: 25
Height: 200cm
Estimated monthly salary: US$10,000

Keith Gayden (Dacin)
College: Duquensne
Age: 27
Height: 198cm
Estimated Monthly Salary: US$7,000

Emmanuel Jones (Taiwan Beer)
College: Texas-Pan American
Age: 25
Height: 196cm
Estimated Monthly Salary: US$6,000

Darryl Hepburn (Pure Youth)
College: Fairmont State
Age: 30
Height: 199cm
Estimated Monthly Salary: Under testing

Jason Faulknor (Bank of Taiwan)
College: Bradley
Age: 30
Height: 196cm
Estimated Monthly Salary: US$6,000

Sheldon Bailey (KKL)
College: Florida International
Age: 27
Height: 196cm
Estimated Monthly Salary: Under testing

Looks like Pure Youth did not sign Zach Atkinson as previously reported. I haven't heard that the league has made any changes to its height limit of 200cm. However, Dove and Hepburn were both listed at 205cm instead of 199cm, according to the stats from Eurobasket.com. I guess these teams made false reports about their heights.

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TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

MBA team for Global Cup! - by Albert-Lee Young
The Millennium Basketball Academy (MBA) boys 18u team will compete in the inaugural 2011 International Basketball Global Cup at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Previously the MBA teams have participated at AAU tournaments in the US during the Easter holidays. However for 2011, the Academy management agreed to expose the kids at the global cup.

According to the tournament owner, Eric Dailey, several international teams from across the world; Bahrain, Canada, China, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Grenada, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Nigeria & Serbia; have already expressed their interests to compete in the inaugural Global Cup Event from August 8-14, 2011 at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.

Coach Dailey is optimistic that this new standard for global youth competition will attract teams from more than twenty countries and some of the top AAU teams across the US. The event will offer teams the opportunity to compete at world-class facilities while also enjoying everything that Walt Disney World Resort has to offer.

This inaugural basketball event will be open to boys and girls, ages 10-18yrs in three Divisions (10-12yrs; 12-14yrs; 14-18yrs). The tournament is limited to sixty-four team and each team will be guaranteed a minimum of three games.

In addition to the event, teams will be afforded an opportunity to train at the highly acclaimed Dailey Training International Basketball Academy. Dailey is the official Basketball Training Academy of the Global Cup Entertainment and the Training Academy will be held for seven days during the Global Cup Tournament.

Meanwhile, FIBA Expert and former Trinidad & Tobago national coach Terry Layton is the Vice President of International Affairs while Kelvin Powell is the US Director and Tournament Director.

Already in Trinidad, Hall of Fame coach Lenny Guy has cautioned his team (MBA) about the expected level of competition at the global cup and expects to intensify the teams preparations from January, 2011.

For more information on the 2011 International Basketball Global Cup you can visit http://www.Global-Cup.com or http://www.daileytraining.com.

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

TURKEY

Savanovic and De Colo lead Valencia to third Euroleague win - by Eurobasket News
Valencia - Efes Pilsen 62-56

Valencia outplayed Efes Pilsen thanks to great last quarter. With this victory the Spanish outfit joined Armani Jeans Milano on position No.4 in Group D. Both teams have 3-4 record now. On the other side, Efes Pilsen dropped to third place with 4-3. Dusko Savanovic

(204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) shined for the hosts with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Nando De Colo

(202-G-87) also scored 13 pts, but to go with 5 boards, while Victor Claver

(207-F/C-88) helped his team with 10 points. In Efes Pilsen, Kerem Gonlum

TBL Standings

1. Fener.Ulker		7-0
2. Banvit		6-1
3. Efes Pilsen		6-1
4. Antalya		6-1
5. Galatasaray		5-2
6. Besiktas		5-3
7. Bornova		4-3
8. Olin Edirne		4-4
9. Aliaga		3-4
10. Karsiyaka		3-4
11. Turk Telekom		2-5
12. Erdemir		2-5
13. Mersin		1-6
14. Oyak Renault		1-6
15. Tofas		1-6
16. Trabzonspor		1-6

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Ali KARADENIZ
  Trabzonspor
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 21

1. Karadeniz, Trabzons.	21.0
2. Barbour, Erdemir	21.0
3. Randle, Aliaga	20.1
4. Gibson, Oyak R.	19.9
5. Mays, Oyak Renault	19.3
6. Seibutis, Olin Edirne	18.4
7. Smith, Bornova	17.7
8. Chatman, Besiktas	17.4
9. Coleman, Aliaga	17.0
10. Yucel, Mersin	16.7

Rebounds Per Game

James MAYS
  Oyak Renault
  (206-F-86)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Mays, Oyak Renault	11.3
2. Thomas, Erdemir	10.6
3. Samardjiski, Olin E.	10.0
4. Francis, Bornova	9.7
5. Ruzic, Tofas	9.1
6. Smith, Bornova	8.9
7. Karadeniz, Trabzons.	8.8
8. Aldemir, Karsiyaka	8.4
9. Wesson, Turk T.	7.9
10. Hunter, Aliaga	7.6

Assists Per Game

Aleksandar RASIC
  Trabzonspor
  (195-G-84)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Rasic, Trabzonspor	6.6
2. Chatman, Besiktas	5.3
3. Holston, Karsiyaka	4.7
4. Senturk, Bornova	4.7
5. Rowe, Tofas	4.6
6. Akin, Olin Edirne	4.5
7. Acik, Galatasaray	4.5
8. Ermis, Banvit	4.3
9. Iverson, Besiktas	4.3
10. Smith, Bornova	4.1

Steals Per Game

James MAYS
  Oyak Renault
  (206-F-86)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Mays, Oyak Renault	3.7
2. Coleman, Aliaga	3.1
3. Norris, Erdemir	3.0
4. Holston, Karsiyaka	3.0
5. Waller, Oyak Renault	3.0
6. Kinsey, Fener.Ulker	2.7
7. Rowe, Tofas	2.7
8. Chatman, Besiktas	2.4
9. Prince, Antalya	2.4
10. Seibutis, Olin Edirne	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Predrag SAMARDJISKI
  Olin Edirne
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Samardjiski, Olin E.	2.6
2. Stiemsma, Turk T.	2.3
3. Ruzic, Tofas	1.6
4. Likholitov, Besiktas	1.5
5. Ogilvy, Besiktas	1.4
6. Francis, Bornova	1.3
7. Aldemir, Karsiyaka	1.3
8. Karaman, Tofas	1.1
9. Sonkol, Bornova	1.0
10. Simpsons, Turk T.	1.0

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

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

My last few months of basketball were extremely fast-paced - by David Edole
Editor's Note: This is the first in an occasional series of stories that will be written by St. Croix native Rakeem Christmas (206-C/F), a 17-year-old basketball player who is considered to be the nation's No. 2 high school center and No. 19 overall recruit in the ESPNU 100. He will play basketball next year at Syracuse University.

When my aunt approached me about possibly doing a monthly column for The Virgin Islands Daily News, I was a little skeptical. But after I thought about it, I figured this would be a great way for me to keep in contact with everyone from home and to let you know what's going in my world up here.

In my first column, I wanted to give an overview of what my life has been like the last few months.

My summer leading in to the school year was quite fun. In the beginning of the summer, I basically lived in the gym. Every day I would lift and work out with my trainer to get ready for the AAU season.

This was my last AAU season with Team Final. We traveled a lot. Some of the cities our team played at included New York City, Orlando and Los Angeles. Team Final is one of Nike's elite teams. This was the first year we played in the EYBL (Nike's Elite Youth Basketball League). Essentially, it's ran like the NBA, but on a high school level.

We had conferences and got seeded in brackets to qualify for Peach Jam, which is the championship tournament for the summer. My team and I did pretty good, but I can't believe we lost in the semifinals.

Aside from traveling with Team Final, I participated in several events individually. I played in the skills camp for NBA players Amar Stoudemire of the Phoenix Suns and LeBron James of the Miami Heat. I also did a lot with Adidas Nations, playing with the 2011 USA Team in Las Vegas and Portland.

My summer highlight was when I got to play against Lebron in Ohio and some of the Cavaliers players. It was pretty cool to guard him. I actually blocked his shot once! He came back and played much harder though.

My last two events for the summer was the Nike Global Challenge at their campus in Oregon and I also headed back to L.A. to play in the Elite 24 game. In between those trips, I visited Syracuse University, which solidified my feeling that it was the best school for me. We did a press conference at Nike's campus to make my decision to play with the Orange. Since then, life has been a little less stressful now that I know where I will be attending school.

My focus now is having the best record at my high school, Academy of the New Church (ANC) in Pennsylvania. We have a very tough schedule. As I'm writing this I am heading to Peoria, IL, where we will be playing in the State Farm Tournament.

November was a big month for me. I was on the cover of ESPN RISE magazine and in SLAM magazine. I signed my letter of intent to attend Syracuse as well. We celebrated at IHOP with my family.

Although a lot of people make it seem like a big deal, I try to not be fazed by all the notoriety that has come my way. I'm still the same ol' Rakeem from the islands. Nothing has changed. Remember that in all you think, you can achieve.

Summer seems like so long ago, but it really was just a few weeks ago. The season is about to start and my birthday is also around the corner. I'm looking forward to interacting with everyone via this column and inviting you into my world.

- Contact Rakeem Christmas by e-mail at rakeemchristmas@gmail.com and follow him via Twitter at twitter@rakeemchristmas.

Aska comes up big - by David Edole
By TOMMY DILLARD

RICHMOND, Ky. -- Fatigued from spending one full day at home over the past 10? Not Ed Daniel.

Even if some of his teammates were feeling the effects of a grueling Ohio Valley Conference road trip coming off three games in four days at the 76 Classic in California, Daniel wasn't.

He was dancing.

'I got off the bus, and he's standing around in the middle of the sidewalk dancing,' said Isaiah Canaan, who poured in a team-high 17 points as the Racers escaped McBrayer Arena with a 74-72 win Thursday night.

'I got off wondering what was wrong with him, but he had a lot of energy, and he needs to bring that every night cause we're going to need it.'

Head coach Billy Kennedy called Daniel, who played 14 minutes off the bench, the MVP of the evening, and it was certainly a breakout game for the Birmingham, Ala., native.

He scored 11 points, pulled down four rebounds (three of which came off the offensive glass) and went 5-for-5 from the free-throw line.

It was also Daniel who provided the gamechanging moment of the evening, at least according to Eastern Kentucky head coach Jeff Neubaurer.

With 2:53 left in the game and the score tied at 64, Daniel went up strong on the offensive glass and tipped in a rebound off one of the Racers' few missed free throws of the night.

'I don't know how it happened, but that was the one that really hurt us,' Neubauer said. 'A lot of times in a close game like this, you think about the last minute of the game. But quite honestly, that rebound that we couldn't come up with, that was painful.'

The Racers claimed 10 offensive rebounds throughout the night, put five players in double figures and shot lights out from the free-throw line, going 22-for-26 in recovering from a dreadful start in their OVC opener.

Murray State trailed by as many as 14 in the first half before coming back to cut the lead to three going into the break.

'I thought we would win the whole time,' Kennedy said. 'I like our team, like our guys. We've been on the road a bunch and I was really proud of our composure. Our guys didn't get rattled.'

EKU did come back from Daniel's put-back, reclaiming the lead at 68-66 on a three-pointer by Willie Cruz.

But the Racers got another huge offensive rebound down the stretch from Ivan Aska (200-F-90).

The junior forward sank two free throws to tie the game with 1:36 left, then B.J. Jenkins stole the ball and passed to Jeffery McClain in transition. McClain missed the layup, but Aska was there to follow, giving the Racers a 70-68 lead.

Aska also turned in a strong performance throughout the game, joining Daniel in double-figures and giving Murray State an across-the-board post performance of which to be proud.

Aska scored 16 points, grabbed eight rebounds (five of which were offensive) and went 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.

'Ivan and Ed in the paint were factors,' said Kennedy. 'We've been struggling in that area and needed both those guys to step up. That was big to see.'

Also scoring in double-figures for MSU were Isacc Miles, who notched 13 points and Jenkins, who poured in 10. Jenkins also notched six assists and four steals.

Even after Aska's score with 1:07 left, the Colonels still had some fight left. Josh Daniel tied the game at 70 with 55 seconds left, but Miles drove in for a layup on the Racers' ensuing possession to give Murray State the lead for good.

Canaan sank two free throws to seal the victory, which helped MSU improve 4-3 overall and 1-0 in the OVC going into Saturday night's showdown with preseason runner-up pick Morehead State.

On Thursday, Murray State struggled to score early, shooting 36 percent in the first half but improving to 60 in the second.

Kennedy also went to a bigger lineup in the second half, playing two forwards for most of the period after going with a four-guard lineup for most of the first half.

The Racers also adjusted to Eastern's offense, which relied heavily on backdoor cuts, as the game went along.

'They're a tough team to prepare for especially in the short time and you've got to give them credit,' Kennedy said. 'Their backdoor cuts hurt us, but in the second half we did a better job of keeping everything in front of us.'

The Racers did suffer an injury casualty when Jewuan Long went down with a back injury after driving to the basket around the 10-minute mark of the second. He converted the layup, but did not return.

'He said he could play, but (trainer) Eric (Frederick) didn't clear him,' Kennedy said. 'It was a heck of a play driving to the basket.'

The game was delayed due to a fire in the building before the women's game.

McBrayer Arena had to be evacuated and the game didn't start until around 7:45 p.m. Central time.

Murray State tips off at Morehead State at 7 p.m. Saturday.

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

UKRAINE

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.4

1. Burtt, Dnipro	22.4
2. Burns, Fe.	20.1
3. Curry, Azovmash	16.7
4. Flores, BC Donetsk	16.5
5. Washington, BC Od.	16.4
6. Morrison, Halyc.	15.8
7. Karim, DniproAzot	15.8
8. DeGroat, BC Odessa	15.6
9. Williams, Halychyna	15.2
10. Wiggins, Halychyna	15.2

Rebounds Per Game

Christian BURNS
  Ferro-ZNTU
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Burns, Fe.	9.2
2. Morrison, Halyc.	8.6
3. Wiggins, Halychyna	8.4
4. Adeleke, Dnipro	8.4
5. Thomas, Azovmash	7.4
6. Austin, Dnipro	7.3
7. DeGroat, BC Odessa	7.0
8. Garrison, Khimik	6.9
9. Chappell, Hoverla	6.9
10. Saltovets, BC Kyiv	6.7

Assists Per Game

Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 5.8

1. Millage, Khimik	5.8
2. Vasiljevic, BC Do.	5.2
3. Funn, Halychyna	4.7
4. Burtt, Dnipro	4.3
5. Zimmerman, Hoverla	4.2
6. Curry, Azovmash	4.1
7. Brewer, BC Odessa	3.8
8. Karim, DniproAzot	3.6
9. Love, Mykolaiv	3.6
10. Flores, BC Donetsk	3.5

Steals Per Game

Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Millage, Khimik	2.6
2. Greene, Mykolaiv	1.9
3. Burns, Fe.	1.9
4. House, Azovmash	1.8
5. Karim, DniproAzot	1.6
6. Dukes, DniproAzot	1.5
7. Kolchenko, Khimik	1.5
8. Riabchuk, BC Kyiv	1.5
9. Love, Mykolaiv	1.5
10. Funn, Halychyna	1.4

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Hughes, Mykolaiv	2.8
2. Kravtsov, BC Do.	2.1
3. Agafonov, Budiv.	1.6
4. Hunter, Fe.	1.5
5. Roberts, Fe.	1.4
6. Morrison, Halyc.	1.4
7. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.	1.3
8. Turner, BC Odessa	1.3
9. Shvets, BC Odessa	1.2
10. Onufriyev, Mykolaiv	1.2

Travis Garrison: 'Things with Khimik are looking on the up and up' - by Travis Garrison
Hello my name is Travis Garrison

(203-F-84, agency: Edge Sports, college: Maryland).I am currently playing ball in Ukraine for Khimik-OPZ Yuzny basketball team.I also played here the 2nd half of 2009/2010 season.This year we are currently in last place,but things are looking on the up and up for us.We are playing a lot better now,and we are going to win more games and move up in our league.We lost a tough one last night in OT,but proud of the effort we gave by continuing to fight to the end.We have a good team,once we fix a few things we will be just fine.We are also playing in Eurochallenge and is currently 1-1,we have a game against Ventspils which will be our 2nd time playing them.We lost to them the first time,but I think things will be much different this time around.It's a long season so we have time to turn things around as long as we stay positive and keep pushing.

I am married,but my family is back in the U.S which is difficult for my wife and I.I have a son and we are raising her younger brother who is 5,so being away from them can be tough sometimes.But we play like every 2 or 3 days and practice twice a day so that takes my mind off of missing them a little.When I get home and is by myself is when it hits me,but I am doing this for them so that keeps me going.I am close with the players on my team and the Americans which makes things a lot better too.When you have teammates that are close and get along,it makes being away from home not so bad.But hopefully I will see them soon.

Well I will let you all know how things turn out for us in this next game in Eurochallenge.God Bless.

DniproAzot sign Holland and Merriex - by Alexei Revenko
SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk sign two new players. 28 years old small forward Delonte Holland�

� (201-F-82, college: De Paul) this season start in Italy in San Severo where he scored 14.3 points per game.
Also team sign 30 years old center Bingo Merriex�

� (204-F-80, college: TCU). Last season he played in Belgium in Generali Okapi Aalstar. He scored 11.0 points and 6.7 rebounds. This season he start in EnBW Ludwigsburg. Bingo played 11 games, scored 4.4 points and 2.5 rebounds.

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. BC Donetsk		13-4
2. Budivelnyk		12-3
3. Hoverla		12-6
4. Azovmash		10-6
5. Kryvbasbasket		10-6
6. Dnipro		9-7
7. Mykolaiv		9-8
8. Ferro-ZNTU		8-9
9. BC Odessa		8-9
10. Halychyna		6-12
11. BC Kyiv		5-12
12. DniproAzot		4-13
13. Khimik		3-14

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

Women News

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

AUSTRALIA - Women

Stats Leaders - WNBL

Points Per Game

Amy DENSON
  Sydney UF
  (186-F-84)
  Avg: 21.4

1. Denson, Sydney UF	21.4
2. Cambage, Bulle.	20.4
3. Graham, Logan T.	17.9
4. Jarry, Bulleen B.	16.9
5. Madgen, Bendigo S.	16.3
6. Macleod, Dandenon.	15.5
7. Cosier, Canberra C.	15.5
8. Marsh, Waves	15.4
9. Bishop, Dandenon.	15.4
10. Hill, Townsville F.	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Elizabeth CAMBAGE
  Bulleen B.
  (203-C-91)
  Avg: 8.6

1. Cambage, Bulle.	8.6
2. Francis, Logan T.	8.1
3. Denson, Sydney UF	8.0
4. Tolo, Canberra C.	7.9
5. Richards, Bendi.	7.9
6. Allison, Townsvil.	7.6
7. Penaluna, Bulleen B.	7.4
8. Veal, Logan T.	7.3
9. Jarry, Bulleen B.	7.3
10. Tippett, AIS	7.1

Assists Per Game

Kristen VEAL
  Logan T.
  (176-G-81)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Veal, Logan T.	6.9
2. Bevilaqua, Waves	5.8
3. Macleod, Dandenon.	5.5
4. Harrower, Bendi.	4.7
5. Flanagan, Townsvil.	4.1
6. Newley, Adelaide	3.5
7. Marino, Adelaide	3.2
8. Romeo, Canberra C.	3.0
9. Foley, Dandenong R.	2.9
10. Porter, Sydney UF	2.7

Steals Per Game

Kristen VEAL
  Logan T.
  (176-G-81)
  Avg: 3

1. Veal, Logan T.	3.0
2. Bevilaqua, Waves	2.4
3. Hill, Townsville F.	1.9
4. Cole, AIS	1.9
5. Gahan, Dandenong R.	1.5
6. Batkovic-B., Canber.	1.5
7. Afeaki, Sydney UF	1.5
8. Perera, Dandenon.	1.4
9. Cosier, Canberra C.	1.4
10. Zavecz, Bulleen B.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Leanne EVANS
  Townsville F.
  (191-F-86)
  Avg: 1.2

1. Evans, Townsville F.	1.2
2. Stafford, Sydney UF	1.1
3. Allison, Townsvil.	1.0
4. Madgen, Bendigo S.	1.0
5. Norwood, Waves	1.0
6. Lewis, Townsville F.	0.9
7. Jarry, Bulleen B.	0.9
8. Porter, Sydney UF	0.8
9. Wilson, Bendigo S.	0.8
10. Joy, Waves	0.8

Standings - WNBL

WNBL Standings

1. Canberra C.		11-1
2. Dandenong R.		7-4
3. Bulleen B.		6-2
4. Bendigo S.		6-4
5. Logan T.		5-4
6. Waves		4-6
7. Townsville F.		4-6
8. Sydney UF		4-7
9. Adelaide		2-6
10. AIS		1-10

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

AUSTRIA - Women

Vienna 87 qualify into Chevrolet Cup Final Four - by Eurobasket News
Vienna 87 became the second participant of Chevrolet Cup Final Four. They thrashed Innsbruck 120:49 to reach the final stage of the tournament. Lisa Zderadicka (166-G-94) fired game-high 35 points to lead the effort from Vienna 87. They trounced Innsbruck in the opening frame. Vienna 87 went on a deadly offensive rally firing 40 points and taking a massive 30-point advantage. Innsbruck did not come back to life in the second period. Vienna 87 accumulated a 70:22 halftime advantage. Things never got better for Innsbruck in the second half. Vienna 87 dominated every facet of the game celebrating a well-deserved win at the end. Pia Zderadicka (175-F-91) knocked down 21 points for the winners. Schwab replied with 16 points for Innsbruck. Erika Mischitz (175-G-87) had 8 points in defeat.
Flying Foxes are awaiting their opponent in Final Four already. The other two teams will be decided in the following clashes: Union Kuenring Flames vs. Herzogenburg and BK Duchess vs. SK Chamber.

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

BELARUS - Women

Standings - Women

Premier League Standings

1. Minsk-2006		9-0
2. Gorizont		7-2
3. Olimpia		7-2
4. BrGU		4-5
5. Sozh Gomel		3-6
6. Berezina		3-6
7. Mogilev		2-7
8. Victoria		1-8

Premier League Round 9: Olimpia beats BrGU in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The most important game of round 9 in Premier League was guest Olimpia's (7-2) easy road victory over BrGU (#4) 111-62. Olimpia (7-2) has a solid series of three victories in a row comparing to three consecutive losses by BrGU. Thanks to that win Olimpia moved-up to second place. BrGU keeps the fourth place with five games lost. Olimpia will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. BrGU will play on the road against Olimpia (#3) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
The game with biggest point difference took place in Mogilev where second ranked Gorizont (7-2) outscored lower ranked Mogilev by 56 points 94-38. Mogilev (2-7) added fifth loss to their record. Newly promoted Gorizont maintains second place having just two points less than leader Minsk-2006. Mogilev dropped to the seventh place with seven games lost. Gorizont will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Mogilev will play on the road against the league's second-placed Gorizont (#2) and hope to get back on the winning track.
Undefeated leader Minsk-2006 delivered the ninth consecutive victory. This time they crushed 8th ranked Victoria 102-56. Minsk-2006 (9-0) have an impressive series of nine victories in a row comparing to four consecutive losses by Victoria. They maintains first place with 9-0 record. Victoria keeps the bottom place with eight games lost. Minsk-2006 will meet at home bottom-ranked Victoria (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Victoria will have a break next round.

In the last game of round 9 Berezina was crushed by Sozh Gomel in a road game 74-51.

Sozh Gomel - Berezina 74-51

There was a minor upset when 5th ranked Berezina (3-6) was crushed on the road by seventh ranked Sozh Gomel (3-6) 74-51. Sozh Gomel (3-6) has a solid series of three victories in a row. Thanks to that win Sozh Gomel moved-up to fifth place which they share with defeated Berezina. Sozh Gomel is looking forward to face Berezina (#6) in Borisovo in the next round. Berezina will have a break next round.

BrGU - Olimpia 62-111

The most important game of round 9 in Premier League was guest Olimpia's (7-2) easy road victory over BrGU (#4) 111-62. Olimpia (7-2) has a solid series of three victories in a row comparing to three consecutive losses by BrGU. Thanks to that win Olimpia moved-up to second place. BrGU keeps the fourth place with five games lost. Olimpia will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. BrGU will play on the road against Olimpia (#3) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.

Minsk-2006 - Victoria 102-56

Undefeated leader Minsk-2006 delivered the ninth consecutive victory. This time they crushed 8th ranked Victoria 102-56. Minsk-2006 (9-0) have an impressive series of nine victories in a row comparing to four consecutive losses by Victoria. They maintains first place with 9-0 record. Victoria keeps the bottom place with eight games lost. Minsk-2006 will meet at home bottom-ranked Victoria (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Victoria will have a break next round.

Mogilev - Gorizont 38-94

The game with biggest point difference took place in Mogilev where second ranked Gorizont (7-2) outscored lower ranked Mogilev by 56 points 94-38. Mogilev (2-7) added fifth loss to their record. Newly promoted Gorizont maintains second place having just two points less than leader Minsk-2006. Mogilev dropped to the seventh place with seven games lost. Gorizont will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Mogilev will play on the road against the league's second-placed Gorizont (#2) and hope to get back on the winning track.

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

BELGIUM - Women

Arras too much for Dexia, both advance to 1/16 Finals - by Eurobasket News
Dexia - Arras 50-56

Arras recorded valuable 50-56 win over their hosts Dexia. This win helped Arras to win Qualifying Group K with 3-1 record and of course to reach the EuroCup 1/16 Finals. Arras will meet Saarlouis at the next stage. Dexia ended as the last ranked team in this group, but despite that advanced to the next stage where they will meet Gorizont.
Game started off slowly for both sides as it was evenly contested matchup. Neither team was able to assert themselves so the score was tied at 15 after one quarter of play. Not much changed in the second period as both teams focused on half court sets rather than fast breaks. Dexia players were able to build 4 point lead during the second quarter and have entered halftime with 30-26. After the break, visiting side tightened the defence. They limited Dexia to only 8 points in the period but they struggled offensively somewhat as well. They won the quarter 8-6 which was enough to give them 38-42 with 10 minutes left to play. In the final period, it was still more of the same, as Dexia stayed close never allowing Arras to break the game open. Teams were mostly trading basket for basket but visitors were able to hold onto their lead. In the end they extended their lead by 2 points and have celebrated 50-56 win.
Johanne Gomis (177-G-85) scored 14 points to lead winning side in this one. She got support from Leilani Mitchell (165-G-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Utah) who added 11 points as well as Krissy Bade (182-F-80) who chipped in 10. On the other side, not even 27 points by Katryna Gaither (191-C-75, agency: LBM Management) could save the hosts from loss.

Dexia: Katryna Gaither 27
Arras: Johanne Gomis 14, Leilani Mitchell 11, Krissy Bade 10

Villenueve cruises past Lotto Young Cats, wins first place in Group I - by Eurobasket News
Lotto Young Cats - Villenueve 52-65

Villenueve ended the Qualifying Round with perfect 6-0 record and of course they are the winners of Group I. The French outfit will meet Croatian Jolly JBS in the EuroCup 1/16 Finals. Lotto Young Cats also advanced to the next stage but as No.3 of this group with 2-4 record. They will meet Energa Torun at the next stage.
From the start it was the visiting side who played with more energy. They were able to quickly build double digit lead and by the end of the first quarter the score stood at 15-23. In the second period, visitors continued with good defence as they limited hosts to 11 points. They pushed their lead further and at the halftime they were up 26-42. Break was good for Lotto Young Cats players as they improved their game. They slowed the tempo of the match and have forced visiting side to start making mistakes. In the third period, hosts were able to cut the deficit by 3 points. They entered final period trailing 38-51 and have tried to push for comeback. However, Villenueve players were able to maintain their lead in the final period. Teams traded basket for basket for most part so after the final buzzer it was the visitors who had more reason to celebrate 52-65 win.
Olayinka Sanni (188-C-86, college: W.Virginia) shinned for visitors with 26 points in this game. Ingrid Tanqueray (164-G-88) and Marjorie Carpreaux (165-G-87, agency: LBM Management) followed with 9 points each. On the other side, hosts got 21 points from Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) while Nina Crelot (170-G/F-87) added 16 points.

Lotto Young Cats: Emma Meesseman 21, Nina Crelot 16
Villenueve: Olayinka Sanni 26, Ingrid Tanqueray 9, Marjorie Carpreaux 9

Gran Canaria ends EuroCup Qualifying Round with perfect 4-0 record - by Eurobasket News
Sint Kateline - Gran Canaria 72-79

Gran Canaria is the winner of Qualifying Group L with perfect 4-0 record and will meet Lemminkainen in the EuroCup 1/16 Finals. Despite the last place in this group and just one win, Sint Kateline also advanced to the next stage and their rival will be SEAT Lami.
It did not start well for Spanish outfit as hosts opened the game better. They were able to build 10 point lead in the first period as the score stood at 24-14. Gran Canaria players started playing better in the second quarter. As result, they started to melt away the deficit. By the halftime break they trailed only 41-36. After the break, the tempo of the match slowed down. Teams struggled on the offensive end but hosts were still able to keep their lead. After trading basket for basket for the whole of the third quarter, Sint Kateline entered the last period still up 55-50. Than in the final 10 minutes, visiting side started to take over again. They went on the run which gave them their first lead of the match. They executed well on the offensive end and have managed to build 7 point advantage. In the finish they routinely closed the game out never allowing hosts to attempt a comeback. In the end they celebrated 72-79 win.
Visitors were led to victory by Nicole Michael (188-G-87, college: Syracuse) who came off the bench to pour in 24 points. She got support from Anna Anderson (178-F) and Rosaura Sanchez (176-G-74) who added 22 and 15 points respectively. For hosts, not even 18 points by Melissa Dennett (188-F-83, college: Colorado St.) now 17 by Daphne Van Dessel (172-G-82) could save them from defeat in this one.

Sint Kateline: Melissa Dennett 18, Daphne Van Dessel 17
Gran Canaria: Nicole Michael 24, Anna Anderson 22, Rosaura Sanchez 15

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BOSNIA - Women

Rada Vidovic leaves Zeljeznicar - by Eurobasket News
Bad news for BC Zeljeznicar who seems to have lost one of its important team members. According to the reports from Bosnian Media, Serbian guard Rada Vidovic (177-G-79) has terminated her contract with Zeljeznicar. Even though the reasons for such decision are still not known, reportedly Vidovic was unsatisfied with financial situation at the club. She has asked to be let go so that she can look for new club and Zeljeznicar management has decided to allow her to. This may come as a blow to Zeljeznicars hopes in the EuroCup as Vidovic was an integral part of the roster. It remains to be seen what is the next step for both the player and the club.
Rada Vidovic played 2002-2003 season as member of Vojvodina where she averaged 13.7 points per game. Following year she moved to Israel where she signed with Maccabi Ramat Gan. She appeared in 16 matches and has posted averages of 13.9 points and 3.2 rebounds. She finished the season as member of Anda Ramat where in 3 EuroCup games she averaged 10.0 points and 2.0 rebounds. In 2005, Vidovic signed with Hapoel Tel-Aviv. In the debut season with the club, she helped them win the National Title. She averaged 13.8 points and 2.6 rebounds in 19 games played. At the start of 2006-2007 season, Vidovic returned for her second stint with Maccabi Ramat Gan. She played in 6 matches and has averaged 10.5 points and 3.2 rebounds. Again she moved midway through the season to Anda Ramat. Next two seasons she played to Ramat Hasharon until she moved back to Serbia at the start of 2008-2009 season when she signed with Spartak Subotica. Last season, Vidovic moved to Bosnian outfit Zeljeznicar where she averaged 12.7 points and 4.7 rebounds in 26 league games. She helped Zeljeznicar win the National Title.

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CANADA - Women

CIS Standings

CIS Standings

AUS
1. Cape Breton		5-2
2. New Brunsw.		3-1
3. St.Mary's		3-2
4. St.Francis X.		2-1
5. Memorial		2-2
6. Acadia		1-3
7. Dalhousie		1-3
8. UPEI		0-3
Canada West
1. Victoria		9-1
2. Saskatchewan		8-2
3. Alberta		7-1
4. Regina		7-1
5. Thompson R.		7-3
6. Winnipeg		5-2
7. UBC		5-5
8. Calgary		3-5
9. UFV		2-6
10. Lethbridge		2-8
11. Manitoba		1-6
12. Trinity West.		1-9
13. Brandon		0-8
QSSF
1. McGill		2-0
2. UQAM		2-1
3. Concordia		1-1
4. Laval		1-2
5. Bishop's		1-3
UOA East
1. Toronto Univ.		5-2
2. Carleton		4-2
3. Ottawa		3-3
4. York		3-3
5. Queen's		1-5
6. Laurentian		1-5
7. RMC		1-5
8. Ryerson		1-6
UOA West
1. Lakehead		5-1
2. Laurier		5-1
3. Western		5-1
4. Windsor		5-1
5. Brock		4-2
6. Guelph		3-3
7. McMaster		3-3
8. Waterloo		0-6

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CROATIA - Women

Dynamo Kursk beats Jolly JBS, both teams advance to 1/16 Finals - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo Kursk - Jolly JBS 66-59

Dynamo Kursk hosted Croatian outfit Jolly JBS and had to work hard in order to secure 66-59 home win. Both teams advanced to EuroCup 1/16 Finals as they are only participants of Qualifying Group E. Dynamo ended this stage with 2-0 and will meet Zeljeznicar, while Jolly JBS (0-2) will take on Villeneuve in the 1/16 Finals.
From the opening tip-off it was the hosts who took the initial lead. They played good defence and were quickly able to build double-digit lead. At the end of the first period the score stood at 26-12. In the second quarter, Jolly players started playing better. It was a closely contested matchup for the most of the quarter but hosts were holding onto their lead. At the halftime break Dynamo players were still up by 15 points as the score stood at 43-28. Than in the third period, tempo of the match went down. Both teams struggled offensively but it was definitely hosts who had a tough time. Dynamo players scored only 5 points in the third and Jolly was able to take advantage of this. They managed to cut the deficit by 8 points and have entered the final quarter trailing only 48-41. In the final 10 minutes, Croatian team tried to make one last push to complete a comeback. However, Dynamo players were able to improve their game. They had answer for each such attempt and were able to hold onto their 7 point lead. In the end they have celebrated more than deserved 66-59 win.
Hosts were led to victory by Irena Vizbariene (196-F/C-77) and Michelle Snow (196-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee) who scored 14 points apiece. Lindsey Harding (173-G-84, college: Duke) also had a decent game as she chipped in 12 points. On the other side, Jolly got 16 points from Petra Stampalija (190-C-80) as well as 11 from Marta Cakic (175-G-82).

Dynamo Kursk: Irena Vizbariene 14, Michelle Snow 14, Lindsey Harding 12
Jolly JBS: Petra Stampalija 16, Marta Cakic 11

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CYPRUS - Women

Dynamo Moscow blows out Petrolina AEK, wins Group G - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo M. - Petrolina AEK 105-50

Dynamo Moscow had an easy night against visiting Petrolina AEK. It was a one sided affair in which hosts secured 55 point margin win. Dynamo is the winner of Qualifying Group G with perfect 4-0 score. It means that Dynamo Moscow will meet Hatis Yerevan in the EuroCup 1/16 Finals. On the other side, Cypriot outfit ended this stage winless.
Hosts took over the game from the very start, executing well on offence and playing great defence. Thanks to series of stops which led to easy transition baskets, Dynamo players managed to build 33-11 lead after one quarter of play. It did not get any easier for visiting side in Q2, as hosts continued to extend their lead. They used every mistake by AEK players to turn it into easy buckets. At the halftime break Dynamo stood comfortably up 59-27. In the second half more of the same continued as it was evident that AEK simply does not have the quality to come back from the large deficit. This did not force hosts to ease up but they continued to pile up pressure. At the end of the third quarter, the game was practically over as Dynamo was up 86-41. In the final period, hosts finally slowed down, but AEK players did not take advantage of that. They continued to struggle offensively so Dynamo furthered their lead. After the final buzzer the scoreboard showed 105-50 blowout win.
Anna Mikheeva (181-F-87) led the winners with 16 points while Marina Kuzina (195-C-85) added double-double of 14 points and 10 rebounds. Anastasia Logunova (188-C-90) also had a decent outing as she chipped in 12 points. For visiting side, Zoe Athanasiou (172-G-88) and Dlesha Lloyd (183-F-86, college: Clemson) had 19 points apiece in loss.

Dynamo M.: Anna Mikheeva 16, Marina Kuzina 14 + 10 boards, Anastasia Logunova 12
Petrolina AEK: Zoe Athanasiou 19, Dlesha Lloyd 19

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

MBK Ruzomberok ends as No.2 of Group I, goes to EuroCup 1/16 Finals - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok - Olivais 75-54

Ruzomberok hosted Olivais and secured an easy victory, leaving visiting side winless in Qualifying Round. Ruzomberok ended this stage as No.2 of Group I with 4-2 record and will meet Umana Reyer in the 1/16 Finals. Olivais failed to Advance.
From the very start Slovakian outfit came out strong taking the lead. They played some good defence and by the end of the first quarter they were up 21-14. In the second period, it was more of an even battle but it was hosts who still controlled the flow of the game. They have increased their lead by 3 points in the second quarter and have went for halftime break holding a 41-29. Not much changed in the second half, as Olivais players simply could not cut into the deficit. Ruzomeberok players played with just enough intensity to maintain their lead. The game entered final period with Ruzomberok holding comfortable 58-42. In the final 10 minutes, hoists tightened their defence and have built their largest lead of the match. In the final minutes, they routinely closed the game out and have celebrated 75-54 win after the final buzzer.
Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) led the winning side with 24 points and 12 rebounds in this game. She got support from Alexandra Tarasava (170-G-88) who added 17 off the bench as well as Klaudia Lukacovicova (193-C-90) who contributed 14 points and 12 baords. For Olivais, Kiva Herman (183-F-87, college: San Diego) led the way with 21 points. Only other player to reach double digits was Earnesia Williams (185-F-87, college: Texas) who finished the game with 14 points.

Ruzomberok: Simona Podesvova 24 + 12 boards, Alexandra Tarasava 17, Klaudia Lukacovicova 14 + 12 boards
Olivais: Kiva Herman 21, Earnesia Williams 14

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DENMARK - Women

Danish Dameligaen round 10 best performance: Lauren Beckley - by Eurobasket News
American power forward Lauren Beckley (181-F/C) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Lemvig, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 10.
The -year old player was the main contributor (33 points, nine rebounds) to her team's victory, helping them to edge out Horsens (#4, 5-5) 57-53. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Lemvig maintains the 2nd position in Danish Dameligaen. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Lemvig will need more victories to improve their 7-3 record. In the team's last game Beckley had a remarkable 58.8% from 2-point range. She turned to be Lemvig's top player in her first season with the team. Former Shippensburg University star has very solid stats this year. Beckley is league's best scorer averaging so far 21.3ppg. Beckley is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 9.5rpg) and averages impressive 2.2spg and 59.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old Charmaine Furgeson (176-G-86) of Horsens BC. Furgeson had a very good evening with a double-double of 23 points and 17 rebounds. Bad luck as Horsens was edged by slightly higher-ranked Lemvig (#2, 7-3) 57-53. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Horsens still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. Her team's 5-5 record is not bad at all. Furgeson is a newcomer at Horsens, but is already the team's top player. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.8ppg (#9). She also registered 10.1 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Lemvig's star - American center Rebecca Kielpinski (188-C). Kielpinski scored 14 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). She was another key player of Lemvig, helping her team with a 57-53 win against #4 ranked Horsens in a game of the week. Lemvig needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 7 victories and 3 lost games. Kielpinski has a very solid season. In 8 games in Denmark she scored 7.4ppg. She also has 6.9rpg, 1.5bpg and FGP: 60.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Shay Holmes (185-F) of Aabyhoj - 18 points and 13 rebounds
5. Anna Seilund (172-G-93) of Amager - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Camilla Blands (180-G-85) of SISU - 14 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Catharina Jensen (184-G/F-89) of Amager - 12 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Ida Krogh (181-G/F-91) of Aabyhoj - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists
9. Katinka Raad-Petersen (177-F) of SISU - 10 points and 5 rebounds
10. Fie Husted (174-G/F-84) of Aabyhoj - 8 points and 3 rebounds

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, 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) - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

The worst players in the round 10 - by Kasper Lays
The worst players in the round 10

Mie Burlin (178-G)

# Name min 2pm-a 3pm-a ftm-a off def tot ast cm rv st fv ag to pts rnk

6 Burlin, Mie 35 0-2 0-3 0-0 1 1 2 4 3 0 2 0 0 3 0 -3

12 Tryggedsson, Ida 32 1-8 1-7 3-4 1 8 9 2 3 0 1 0 0 5 8 -2

14 Blyme, Anne 27 2-9 0-0 2-3 1 3 4 1 4 0 1 0 0 3 6 -3

4 Hesseldal, Emilie 32 1-17 0-0 6-6 3 5 8 1 4 0 5 2 0 4 8 0

4 Udovalieva, Ivana 27 1-3 0-2 1-2 0 3 3 1 4 0 1 0 0 4 3 -5

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EUROCUP - Women

Standings

Eurocup Standings

Group A
1. Chevakata			4-0
2. Lemminkainen			1-3
3. Zeljeznicar			1-3
Group B
1. Gorizont			4-0
2. Spartak N.			2-2
3. Craiova			0-4
Group C
1. Partizan			3-1
2. Aris			2-2
3. Besiktas			1-3
Group D
1. Athinaikos			2-0
2. Lupa Promot.			0-2
Group E
1. Dynamo K.			2-0
2. Jolly			0-2
Group F
1. Dynamo-GUVD			3-1
2. Elitzur Ramla			3-1
3. Hatis Yerevan			0-4
Group G
1. Dynamo M.			4-0
2. Minsk-2006			2-2
3. AEK Larnaca			0-4
Group H
1. Nantes			5-1
2. SEAT Lami			5-1
3. Saarlouis			2-4
4. AD Vagos			0-6
Group I
1. Villeneuve			6-0
2. MBK Ruzomb.			4-2
3. Young Cats			2-4
4. Olivais			0-6
Group J
1. Mann Filter			3-1
2. Energa Torun			3-1
3. Alges			0-4
Group K
1. Arras			3-1
2. Umana Reyer			3-1
3. Dexia Namur			0-4
Group L
1. Gran Canaria			4-0
2. Szeged			1-3
3. Sint Kateline			1-3

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Ana DABOVIC
  Dynamo-GUVD
  (183-G/F-89)
  Avg: 22.8

1. Dabovic, Dy.	22.8
2. Sanni, Villeneuve	22.5
3. Likhtarovich, Goriz.	21.5
4. Petrakova, Cheva.	20.8
5. Mosch, Dy.	20.0
6. Castro Marqu., Besik.	19.3
7. Willingham, Elitzu.	19.3
8. Gaither, Dexia N.	18.8
9. Davenport, Cheva.	18.0
10. Carson, SEAT L.