EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/17/2010

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ABI   


ABI start delayed again - by Gianni Pascucci
Due to visa problems, the Americas Basketball International league start has been postponed again. The idea of Commisioner Anthony Toney is very good, but it is very hard to collect teams from outside USA and make them play vs local teams. According with a recent Mr. Toney communication to Usbasket.com, the ABI is working on a tournament with clubs from Guatemala and El Salvador involved to start in late May of June 2010. Then, the league will organize the 2010 edition of the Frewill Games in August, after that the soccer tournament run by the same organization will be finished.
The ABI is projecting a two week tournament with teams from the ABI, which will be from USA, El Salvador, Guatemala, and maybe Pamama (if they can get their visa) plus one or two teams from China. Tournament will run from August 5-7, 2010 and August 12-14, 2010 TBA
Also, the ABI is still looking for players that can play on the next level. All those willing like to play in the Freewill Games 2010 against the teams from China and the ABI teams from El Salvador and Guatemala, please contact Commissioner Toney at 205-276-8132 or go to www.abibasket.com An ABI tryout camp will be held on April 30, 2010 and May 1, 2010


*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Penarol win Interligas Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Penarol - Universo/BRB 90:78
Penarol triumphed at the Interligas Tournament. The competition organized by the Brazil and Argentina Club Associations was quite a success drawing attention of many basketball fans. Penarol and Universo/BRB entered the championship game with perfect records. With the help of home fans the Argentinean team proved the diference and claimed the title. Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) scored 21 points to lead the effort.
Penarol quickly grabbed the lead in this one. They accounted for 25 points in the first frame and earned a 9-point advantage at the first break. Penarol continued to roll confidently as they arrived at halftime up by 20 points 52:32. Universo/BRB tried to turn things around after the main break. Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) helped the visitors to cut the margin at 14 points with one quarter to go. Universo/BRB tried hard in the fourth term as they got even closer but not close enough to threaten Penarol.
Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: William Carey) and Pablo Sebastian Rodriguez (188-G-78) scored 12 points each for Penarol. Sebastian Vega (200-C-88) added 11 points in the victory. Alexandre Garcia answered with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Universo/BRB. Jose Estevam Ferreira (211-C-78) added 14 points in the loss.

Penarol: Leonardo Gutierrez 21, Kyle Lamonte 12, Pablo Sebastian Rodriguez 12
Universo/BRB: Alexandre Garcia 21, Jose Estevam Ferreira 14


Life in Argentina - by Kyle LaMonte
Hello Latinbasket,In my second blog,i'm going to tell you about my life in the great country of Argentina.First the basketball side of it,my team finished the regular season number 1,this was a goal of ours so we could have home court adantage throughout the playoffs.Im really blessed to be apart of a great team and a great situation,my team is loaded with talent! this season alone we have won many things this season both as a team and individually,here's the list: my coach Sergio Hernandez was coach of the year,he is a great coach and an unbelievable person,just a very cool person,easy to get along with,but still can crack his whip if he needs to,Leo Gutierrez was league MVP along with league power foward of the year,he has a gold medal,I cant imagine what that felt like winning that for your country,Tato Rodriguez was the point guard of the year,he is really good at using his strenghts,not the fastest nor does he jump the highest but he just finds away,he is the capitan of our ship,Facu Campazzo was rookie of the year,he is 18 years old and he can play!,I could not imagine myself playing in this league at 18,and the rest of team all have played for their country at one point in time,a group of great players as well as good people,just wish I spoke more spanish so I was able to talk and joke with them more,looks like they having a great time.
My team has won a few tournaments as well,they were super 8 champions,we went to Panama City and won the pool D in the fiba liga de americas,we hosted the final four of this tourny in our city and we won that as well,this is a huge tournament which features all the best teams from Argentina,Brazil,Mexico,Puerto Rico and Uruguay just to name a few.Yesterday we won the interliga,in which the top 4 teams from Brazil play the top 4 teams from Argentina.
All of these things are really nice and they are fun now but we now set our sights on the league title,I feel like we have set the bar so high that anything less than being champions would be a failure.Our team has been givin alot of praise and with that comes a huge bullseye on your back and everybody lookin to gun you down.We can never have a night were we are not ready to play because no team is going to come and lay down because of all the things we done,we get everyone's best shot,now its on us to respond to the challenge,I know we are capable,now we just have to do it,time will tell.........Vamo Pena...lol my spanish!!!!!!
Now about the country,the City I live in is Mar Del Plata,Buenos Aires and sits on the Atlantic Ocean. It is a vacation city with alot of people coming to live here for the summer months here in Argentina,which are December,January and Febuary.It is getting a little colder and that has caused the population to drop with everyone returning to their homes.The food that is most common here is 'asado' which is like a barbeque,this is a big cow country,which is great for me because I don't eat pork. Yesterday at our celebration I tried cow brain,hey you only live once,but thats the last time i'll do that.My teammates tell me that we eat everything off of the cow.The people here are really nice and want to talk with you,but when I tell them my little spanish that I have been working on,they take it as I speak spanish and start takling so fast,lol,im just not ready for that yet! Everyday when im out,Im greeted by the fans,they honk from there cars,yell vamo pena from across the street or where ever they maybe,sometimes they want me to take pictures,its crazy,i've taking alot of pics,something I could have never imagined myself doing,that and sign autographs.I often chat with some of the fans on facebook when I can!!!
So all in all,I just love the idea of being abroad and getting paid to do what you love,something that I would be doing for free if I was not able to play professionally.getting to experience this culture and meeting new people is all new to me so im just trying to soak the whole thing in.Lastly,Im very prideful of where I come from Daenport,IA (Quad Cities 563/309)not many people know where that is so I try to represent everytime I play,the love I get at home is crazy,I love yall!!!!!!



P.S: Im sure everyone missed it but the one person that was spposed to,in my last blog I said I spent time with my children,correction,I spent time with my fiance and children,Sorry about that one,Im sure most of the guys can understand about not wanting to be in the dog house or couch when I get home....lol!!!

TNA Quarterfinals (Game 4): Bragado eliminates Club 9 - by Eurobasket News
Bragado - Club 9 88-75
Bragado outplayed Club 9 last night 88-75 wining the Quarterfinal series with 3-1. As a reminder, Bragado was the only team who celebrated in Game 1 and it seems that was the crucial thing in this series. Julian Olmedo (187-G-77) led the hosts with 17 points and 7 assists, Lisandro Rasio (197-F/C-90) shined with 14 points and 8 rebounds, while Derrick Miller and Cesar Avalle also had 14 points each. Marin Melo and Emiliano Martina are two more players with 14 pts in this game, but they made it for Club 9.


TNA Quarterfinals: Ciclista ties the score against San Martin C (2-2) - by Eurobasket News
TNA Quarterfinals, Game 4: Ciclista - San Mart.C. 78-74
Ciclista managed to beat San Martin C last night tying the score to 2-2 in TNA Quarterfinals. John Huggins (188-G-82, college: Amer.Internat.) and Alejandro Konsztadt (189-G-89) were the leading players in victory with 21 points each. Konsztadt had 5 rebounds and 5 assists beside that. For the guests, Mariano Ceruti (194-F-79) collected 16 points and 6 boards. Decisive Game 5 is scheduled for April 20.

LigaA Round: 1 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Atenas - Regatas C. 67-57
Atenas outplayed Regatas 67-57 to take 1-0 lead in LigaA Quarterfinals. Albert White (197-G/F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Missouri) shined for the hosts with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78) also had very important role adding 14 pts and 6 boards. In Regatas, Juan Manuel Rivero and Agustin Carabajal delivered 10 points each.

Sionista - Quimsa 87-79
1-0 for Sionista, who got 19 points and 8 rebounds from Chuck Robinson (201-F-72, college: E.Carolina). Beside him, the winning squad had four more players with double-digits in scoring last night. On the other side Cleotis Brown (198-G/F-77, college: Illinois) netted 24 pts. Game 2 is scheduled for April 18.

Libertad S. - Boca Jrs 90-81
Libertad had couple of players in a game mood last night with Gregory Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) leading the way with 18 points and 6 boards. Sebastian Ginobili (190-G-72, agency: Interperformances) and Franco Migliori secured a nice help with 15 points apiece. Fernando Martina collected 19 points and 7 rebs in defeat.

Stats Leaders - LigaA
Points Per Game
 David JACKSON
  La Union
  (196-G-82)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Jackson, La Union18.9 
 2. Lamonte, Penarol18.2 
 3. Lo Grippo, Atenas17.3 
 4. Assie, Quilmes MP17.3 
 5. Moodie, Boca Jrs17.2 
 6. Funes, C.Entrer.16.7 
 7. Profit, Libertad S.16.7 
 8. Nelson, Quilmes MP16.4 
 9. Cutley, C.Entrer.16.2 
 10. Gonzalez, Quimsa16.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Federico KAMMERICHS
  Regatas C.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Kammerichs, Regat.11.6 
 2. Williams, Union S.8.1 
 3. Rollins, Gimnasia.7.8 
 4. Griffin, Estudiantes7.5 
 5. Wolkowyski, Libertad.7.3 
 6. Assie, Quilmes MP7.3 
 7. Leiva, Penarol7.2 
 8. Gonzalez, Quimsa7.1 
 9. McFarlan, Union S.6.9 
 10. Nelson, Quilmes MP6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Fernando TITARELLI
  Quilmes MP
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Titarelli, Quilm.6.3 
 2. Cequeira, Sionista4.6 
 3. Victoriano, Lanus4.3 
 4. Franco, Estudiantes4.1 
 5. Martinez, Sionista3.7 
 6. Labaque, Obras3.6 
 7. Ginobili, Libertad S.3.5 
 8. Figueroa, Atenas3.2 
 9. Williams, Olimpico.3.1 
 10. Aguirre, Boca Jrs3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Frank WILLIAMS
  Olimpico LB
  (191-G-80)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Williams, Olimpico.1.8 
 2. Moldu, Libertad S.1.7 
 3. Pelussi, Libertad S.1.6 
 4. Funes, C.Entrer.1.6 
 5. Franco, Estudiantes1.6 
 6. Marshall, C.Entrer.1.6 
 7. Aguirre, Boca Jrs1.6 
 8. Pau, La Union1.4 
 9. Cutley, C.Entrer.1.4 
 10. Figueroa, Atenas1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Derrick ALSTON
  Olimpico LB
  (208-C/F-72)
  Avg: 2
 1. Alston, Olimpico.2.0 
 2. Billings, Regatas C.1.6 
 3. Alston, Boca Jrs1.3 
 4. Rollins, Gimnasia.1.2 
 5. Bortz, Obras1.2 
 6. Kammerichs, Regat.1.1 
 7. Williams, Union S.1.1 
 8. Assie, Quilmes MP1.0 
 9. Gomez, Quimsa0.8 
 10. Leiva, Penarol0.8 


Stats Leaders - TNA
Points Per Game
 Brice ASSIE
  San Mart.C.
  (201-F-83)
  Avg: 22.5
 1. Assie, San Mart.C.22.5 
 2. Miller, Bragado19.6 
 3. Leith, Firmat SF16.5 
 4. Nwankwo, El Nacional16.1 
 5. Williams, Independ.T.16.1 
 6. Elsener, El Nacional16.0 
 7. Huggins, Ciclista15.7 
 8. Barlasina, San M.15.4 
 9. Truscott, San M.15.3 
 10. Arceneaux, Belgrano.15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Louis TRUSCOTT
  Belgrano SN
  (199-F-78)
  Avg: 9.1
 1. Truscott, San M.9.1 
 2. Ford, Belgrano SN8.5 
 3. Leith, Firmat SF8.1 
 4. Espinoza, Argentino8.1 
 5. Williams, Independ.T.8.1 
 6. Williams, Club 97.9 
 7. Assie, San Mart.C.7.5 
 8. Wilkerson, Ciclista7.4 
 9. Benjamin, San M.7.0 
 10. Kornegay, A.Ita.6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Julian OLMEDO
  Bragado
  (187-G-77)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Olmedo, Bragado4.5 
 2. Gandoy, Belgrano SN3.4 
 3. Palacios, Firmat S.2.7 
 4. Forastieri, Club 92.6 
 5. Sartorelli, San M.2.6 
 6. La Bella, Obera TC2.6 
 7. Ceci, Argentino2.5 
 8. Luchino, San M.2.3 
 9. Ceruti, San M.2.3 
 10. Bernhardt, San M.2.3 
Steals Per Game
 Gregorio ESEVERRI
  Belgrano SN
  (194-G/F-87)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Eseverri, Belgrano.2.1 
 2. Williams, Independ.T.2.0 
 3. Giletta, Alma Juniors2.0 
 4. Elsener, El Nacional2.0 
 5. La Bella, Obera TC1.8 
 6. Castets, Obera TC1.8 
 7. Castelli, Independ.T.1.7 
 8. Ford, Belgrano SN1.6 
 9. Fernandez, Alma J.1.6 
 10. Luchino, San M.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Brice ASSIE
  San Mart.C.
  (201-F-83)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Assie, San Mart.C.1.6 
 2. Espinoza, Argentino1.5 
 3. Williams, Club 91.2 
 4. Williams, Independ.T.1.1 
 5. Kornegay, A.Ita.1.0 
 6. Giorgi, Obera TC1.0 
 7. Francis, Argentino0.9 
 8. Ford, Belgrano SN0.9 
 9. Martina, Club 90.8 
 10. Nwankwo, El Nacional0.7 


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  AUSTRALIA   


Sixers re-sign Jacob Holmes - by Eurobasket News
The Hood Sweeney Adelaide 36ers have re-signed forward Jacob Holmes (201-F-83).

Holmes is a native South Australian and long-time member of the 36ers.

'The club and myself value people who want to play for the 36ers and not just play basketball for anyone, Head Coach Marty Clarke said.

Jacob will be given an increased leadership role this season under Clarke. The new 36ers head coach seeing one of Holmes key assets as his experience and maturity off court.

Jacob certainly has a great locker room presence and has shown the maturity and character to handle himself extremely well off the floor.

Holmes averaged 7 points and 6 rebounds for the 36ers last season.

His 4.6 defensive rebounds per game were second in the NBL and he ranked ninth in the league for total rebounds per game.

Courtesy of The Hood Sweeney Adelaide 36ers


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  AUSTRIA   


A Bundesliga Round: 1 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Furstenfeld - Oberwart 83-81
Furstenfeld had to work very hard in order to beat Oberwart and to take 1-0 lead in Playoff Quarterfinals. Desmond Penigar (201-F-81, college: Utah St.) was a key player for the Panthers as he scored 25 points and pulled down 8 rebounds. Anthony Shavies (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Missouri St.) followed with 17 points, 6 boards and 7 assists. On the other side, Oberwart got 24 pts and 7 assists from Kelvin Parker.

Gmunden - St.Polten 73-61
Gmunden is 1-0 up after they beat St Polten 73-61 last night. Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) top-scored for the hosts with 16 points, Ian Boylan (197-G/F-83, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Cal.St. Northridge) had 14 points and 7 boards, while Matthias Mayer added 13 points and 10 rebs. Thomas Schreiner replied with 19 points, 7 boards and 5 assists in loss.

Wels - Arkadia 64-53
Rasheed Brokenborough (191-G-76, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Temple) came up with 18 points and 5 rebounds to lead his Wels last night against Arkadia (1-0). Trenton Meacham (188-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Illinois) and Tilo Klette secured a nice help as they scored 12 points each. On the other side, Dorde Drenovac delivered 15 points.

Klosterneub. - Kapfenberg 75-61
Christoph Nagler (194-G-84) was the leading scorer in this victory with 16 points, Curtis Bobb (196-G/F-78, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Utah St.) had 14 points and 7 rebounds, while Ramiz Suljanovic added 12 pts and 9 boards. Melvin Creddle was the least one with more than ten for Klosterneuburg (11 pts). Kevin Nelson collected 15 points and 6 rebs for the Bulls.

Furstenfeld Edges Oberwart to take 1-0 Series Lead - by Lindsey McIntyre
If the first game of the Quarterfinal Playoff series between the top-seeded BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers and the eight-seed Oberwart Gunners was any indication, both teams are in for a tough series that will likely be closer than predicted. The Furstenfeld Panthers earned a hard-fought 83-81 win in the first game Thursday night in Furstenfeld. Panther Desmond Penigar (201-F-81, college: Utah St.) led all scorers with 25 points and eight rebounds. Kelvin Parker (183-G-82, college: NW Missouri St.) led Oberwart with 24 points and seven assists.

The game was a hotly contested battle throughout between the two rivals. The Panthers jumped ahead early by opening the game on a 12-4 run, but the Gunners were not intimidated by their rivals and stormed back, pulling to within one, 18-17, near the end of the first quarter. The second quarter was filled with ties and lead changes, with Oberwart going up by as much as five, before the half ended tied at 41-all.

The close play continued in the third quarter, with more ties and lead changes and neither team gaining more than a five-point lead. The quarter ended with Furstenfeld up by one 65-64, and no indication that either team would go down without a fight.

After several missed shots by both teams to open the fourth quarter, Penigar hit a lay-up to put the Panthers up by three, but the Gunners responded with a quick 6-0 spurt to take a 70-67 lead. Furstenfeld immediately matched Oberwart with their own 6-0 run to regain the lead 73-70. Although Oberwart would pull close several more times, this was the final lead change in the game and the Panthers held on for the two-point victory.

The Panthers' Shelton Colwell (202-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Missouri St.) led all rebounders with 12 in addition to his 16 points and three blocked shots. Anthony Shavies (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Missouri St.) handed out seven assists and posted 17 points and Jasmon Youngblood (195-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Kent St.) added 15 points and four assists against his former team.

For the Gunners, Charles Gosa (202-F-77, college: N.Mexico St.) scored 16 points and eight rebounds, Jonathan Levy (193-G-82, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) added 15 points and six rebounds. Jason Johnson (202-F/C-77, college: Tennessee St.) posted a double-double with 14 points and 10 boards and Anthony Paez (198-F-84, agency: JEMsports, college: Stephen F. Austin) added 10 points. It's also worth noting that the Gunners' two leading scorers this game, Parker and Gosa, are new additions since the last time these two teams last met, back in January.

In other Playoff matchups around the league, all of the top seeds were victorious, with Allianz Swans Gmunden defeating UBC St. Polten 73-61, WBC Raiffeisen Wels defeating Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions 64-53, and Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg topping Kapfenberg Bulls 75-61. All teams meet again Sunday, April 18 at the arena of the higher seeds for game two.


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin HOUSTON
  Arkadia
  (193-G/F-76)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Houston, Arkadia20.9 
 2. Mayes, Gmunden20.5 
 3. Francois, Gussing19.4 
 4. Penigar, Furstenf.19.3 
 5. Roderick, Arkadia18.5 
 6. Mahalbasic, Worth.18.4 
 7. Nelson, Kapfenberg18.1 
 8. Paez, Oberwart18.1 
 9. Nagler, Klostern.16.6 
 10. Anderson, Vienna16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin HOUSTON
  Arkadia
  (193-G/F-76)
  Avg: 9
 1. Houston, Arkadia9.0 
 2. Johnson, Oberwart8.8 
 3. Mahalbasic, Worth.8.6 
 4. McCandies, Worth.7.8 
 5. Conley, Wels7.8 
 6. Penigar, Furstenf.7.8 
 7. Forrestal, UBSC G.7.6 
 8. Heard, Gussing7.5 
 9. Moric, Klostern.6.9 
 10. Oppland, Gmunden6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Anthony SHAVIES
  Furstenfeld
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Shavies, Furstenf.5.7 
 2. Schreiner, St.Po.5.2 
 3. Boylan, Gmunden5.2 
 4. Lanegger, UBSC G.4.8 
 5. Danek, Arkadia4.7 
 6. Woschank, Kapfe.4.5 
 7. Zeleznik, UBSC G.4.1 
 8. O''Neal, Vienna3.7 
 9. Creddle, Klostern.3.6 
 10. Richards, Gussing3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Thomas SCHREINER
  St.Polten
  (195-G-87)
  Avg: 2
 1. Schreiner, St.Po.2.0 
 2. Payton, Vienna2.0 
 3. Boylan, Gmunden2.0 
 4. Roderick, Arkadia2.0 
 5. O''Neal, Vienna1.9 
 6. Zeleznik, UBSC G.1.8 
 7. Richards, Gussing1.7 
 8. Shavies, Furstenf.1.6 
 9. Jandl, St.Polten1.6 
 10. Penigar, Furstenf.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Shelton COLWELL
  Furstenfeld
  (202-F-80)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Colwell, Furstenfeld1.4 
 2. Heard, Gussing1.1 
 3. Anderson, Vienna1.0 
 4. Kohlmaier, St.Polten0.8 
 5. Mahalbasic, Worth.0.7 
 6. Levy, Oberwart0.7 
 7. Youngblood, Furstenf.0.6 
 8. Roderick, Arkadia0.6 
 9. Francois, Gussing0.6 
 10. Bralovic, Arkadia0.6 


*****************************************************
  BAHRAIN   


Standings
Premier League Standings
 1. Al Manama 18-4 
 2. Muharraq 18-4 
 3. Al Ahli 16-6 
 4. Al Hala 13-8 
 5. Nuwaidrat 11-10 
 6. Sitra 11-11 
 7. Issa Town 9-13 
 8. Al Ittihad 9-13 
 9. Al Najma 3-18 
 10. Bahrain Club 0-21 


AL-Muharraq and Al-Manama advance to Bahrain Cup 2009/2010 - by Eurobasket News
AL-Muharraq and Al-Manama advance to Bahrain Cup 2009/2010 as they beacme the Winners of Round 6. Both teams finished with 5-1 record to see each other in the Final. The teams also faced each other in the last day of the Round 6 as AL-Muharraq won over Al-Manama 74:70. The Finals will last until two wins of any of the teams. The will start ion April 19th at the Bahrain Sport.




Bader sinks game-winner as Manama topple Muharraq - by Patrick Salomon
BADER Abdulla Malabes played hero once again for Manama Friday night in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League.

Bader hit the game-winning three-pointer with 1.8 seconds to play in a 75-72 dogfight against bitter rivals Muharraq, earning Manama the number one overall seed heading into the Golden Square semi-finals.

Bader buried the triple against the pressure defence of 12-year NBA veteran Lamond Murray. It was the second time this season that he had hit a game-clinching shot against Muharraq. Bader did the same during their regular season meeting in January. Then, he had buried a buzzer-beating three from the right corner to give his side a thrilling 79-78 victory.

Bader repeated his heroics yesterday, this time making the winning basket from the left wing. His shot capped a resounding Manama comeback from an 11-point deficit early in the second half.

Muharraq star Mohammed Hassan had a chance to tie it at the buzzer, but his half-court heave went off the glass and bounced off the front of the rim and out.

Bader finished with just eight points, but without a doubt had the games most important three.

Coach didnt call the play for me; he said to just look for the open man and fortunately, when I got the ball, I just confidently took the shot and I hit it, an elated Bader told the Gulf Daily News.

Added Manama head coach Abdulhameed Ebrahim: Thats Bader hes the kind of player who can take those shots and make them under pressure.

American import Calvin Warner finished with 25 points to pace the Manama attack. Warner also had 13 rebounds, five assists and three blocks.

Hassan Nairouz chipped in with 18, all of which he scored from beyond the arc, while Ahmed Abdulaziz added 10 and Mahmood Ghuloom seven.

Nairouz gave Manama their first lead of the second half, 69-66, after connecting from long range with four minutes to play. Muharraqs Mohammed Abdulmajeed then tied it once more with his own three-point basket, before Nairouz answered with another back-breaking triple to put Manama back ahead 72-69.

A pair of charity shots from Mohammed Hassan and one from Abdulmajeed then forged a 72-all deadlock with 8.4 seconds to play. Ebrahim then called a time-out for Manama, paving the way for Baders winner.

Murray led all scorers with 28 points while grabbing a game-high 22 rebounds. But he had missed a key fade-away jumper along the baseline with only a half-a-minute remaining which would have given Muharraq the lead and which could have altered the end-result. Hassan scored 17 and Abdulmajeed nine in defeat.

The win secured Manama the top seed in the leagues final four, where they will once again face off with Muharraq in a best-of-three series.

Coincidentally, both teams are also pitted against each other in the championship series of the Zain Bahrain Basketball Cup, which will also be a best-of-three affair. The Cup finals tip off next week, while the league semi-finals get underway next month. Manama are the reigning holders of the Cup.

This win is big for us, but it means nothing really because we need to start from zero all over again, Ebrahim added.

Defending league champions Al Ahli and Al Hala go head to head in the other semi-final series of the league.

*****************************************************
  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Levski beats Lovcen in the Big Final, wins Balkan League title - by Eurobasket News
Lovcen - Levski 65-77
For another year the Eurohold Balkan league trophy will stay in Bulgaria. After Rilski Sportist won the first edition of the tournament in 2009 today another Bulgarian team went to the top. The host of Final Four Levski defeated Lovcen 65-77 and won the trophy in front of its home fans. This is the second tournament won by the team this season after the Cup of Bulgaria one month ago. Levski played very good defense throughout the whole game and proved it was the best team in this year tournament. The team of Lovcen also deserves to be praised for its performance during the championship. The game was decided at the start of the second half. After the first 20 minutes Levski led 39-35 and after an 8-0 run to start the third quarter built a big lead. It was protected until the end of the quarter and with 7 straight points to start the last one the score went up to 67-46. From then on there was no comeback for Lovcen and Levski and its fans started celebrating. Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Mississippi) was the best player on the court with with his 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. 14 points apiece added Donald Cole (204-C-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: Sam Houston St.) and Stefan Georgiev, while his brother Zlatin had 10. For the visitors Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91) had another double double - 23 points and 11 rebounds. Damjan Kandic (208-F-84) had 15 points in the first half he received some injury and played only a few minutes in the second.
*by Valentin Anguelov (Bulgarian section)


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


Coaches News - by Peter Buyse
Tom Johnson has left Belgium and is now assistant coach in Frankfurt. The Canadian former coach of Bree, Liege and Aalst has joined fellow Canadian coach Gordon Herbert in trying to help Frankfurt into the playoffs. The German team released its Turkish coach recently.Tom coached D2 Bree till they recently folded.
He told Eurobasket Belgium to be very impressed with the professionalism of his new team.

Jurgen Van Meerbeeck will not be on the Verviers-Pepinster bench next season. That official annoucement came from the team itself.
Still according to the press release, no agreement could be reached on the lenght of the contract and the financials.
At present Verviers is in 3rd place and can be considered the surprise of this season.

*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


Penarol win Interligas Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Penarol - Universo/BRB 90:78
Penarol triumphed at the Interligas Tournament. The competition organized by the Brazil and Argentina Club Associations was quite a success drawing attention of many basketball fans. Penarol and Universo/BRB entered the championship game with perfect records. With the help of home fans the Argentinean team proved the diference and claimed the title. Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) scored 21 points to lead the effort.
Penarol quickly grabbed the lead in this one. They accounted for 25 points in the first frame and earned a 9-point advantage at the first break. Penarol continued to roll confidently as they arrived at halftime up by 20 points 52:32. Universo/BRB tried to turn things around after the main break. Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) helped the visitors to cut the margin at 14 points with one quarter to go. Universo/BRB tried hard in the fourth term as they got even closer but not close enough to threaten Penarol.
Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: William Carey) and Pablo Sebastian Rodriguez (188-G-78) scored 12 points each for Penarol. Sebastian Vega (200-C-88) added 11 points in the victory. Alexandre Garcia answered with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for Universo/BRB. Jose Estevam Ferreira (211-C-78) added 14 points in the loss.

Penarol: Leonardo Gutierrez 21, Kyle Lamonte 12, Pablo Sebastian Rodriguez 12
Universo/BRB: Alexandre Garcia 21, Jose Estevam Ferreira 14


*****************************************************
  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Parillon and Glasgow drops tough contest - by David Edole
Everton Tigers - Moore 32, Bell 23, Babalola 18
Glasgow Rocks - Murray 17, Yanders 16, Steve Parillon (196-F-78, college: Henderson St.) 16

Everton Tigers kept their hopes of snatching a fourth place finish alive thanks to a 97-78 victory over the Glasgow Rocks at the Greenbank Academy on Friday evening.

The result meant that the Tigers need to beat the Essex Pirates tomorrow night and hope that both the Cheshire Jets and the Riders fail to win any of their remaining games in order for them to take fourth position.

The Tigers started the game the stronger and a 16-4 burst gave them an early 24-9 advantage, but the Rocks got themselves back into the game with a 14-4 tear of their own to trim the deficit to five points to end the first period at 28-23.

The second quarter saw the Tigers extend their lead to ten points at 38-28 off the back of a 10-3 run, but Gareth Murray was in fine shooting form at the end of the first half as he helped the Rocks tie the game up at 49-49 as the visitors netted 14 of the last 24 points of the half, with Murray netting eight of them, as the sides headed into the locker room at the half.

In the second half, both sides traded baskets in the early going, but it was the Tigers who broke the game open with a 17-8 tear to take the score out to 72-63 as the teams headed into the final stanza.

In the final quarter the Rocks tried to keep themselves in touch with their hosts as they closed to within ten points at 82-72, but a 15-2 burst from the home side to take the score out to 97-74 and the Tigers held on for the comfortable victory.

Trey Moore led all scorers in the game with an impressive 32-point haul for the Tigers, while the Rocks were led by Murray with 16 points


*****************************************************
  CANADA   


Raps win convincingly but miss Playoffs - by Eurobasket News
It ended on a winning note, but it was of little consolation for a team of which much more was expected.

The Raptors wont sleep any better having beaten the New York Knicks 131-113 in their regular-season finale. They might have, had the Charlotte Bobcats come through for them, but thats the price a team pays when it allows its fate to be determined by others.

Instead the Bobcats fell victim to the Bulls making last nights result inconsequential. The opportunity to avoid leaving it in someone elses hands came last Sunday when the Bulls paid a visit to the ACC. The Bulls proved that evening they wanted it more than the Raptors.

Wednesday night the Bulls playing a back-to-back on the road against a rested Charlotte team found a way to close it out leading from the opening tip until an 98-89 finish.

The Bulls had a first quarter-lead of seven, bumped it to 14 by the half and were back down to 11 by the end of the third although, at that point, Larry Brown who as promised played his starters, had done the smart thing and gone to his reserves for most of the final quarter.

The Bobcats, after all, had already earned their playoff spot.

The Raptor finale was fitting of the type of season they had.

It was a one-way game with both teams playing to score and neither side seemingly giving a second thought to stopping the other.

Street-ball games have seen more defence than Wednesdays tilt.

The fact that the Raptors had provided their deserving fans free pizza with a

100-point game before the third quarter was even over was proof of that.

The Knicks, despite some encouragement from Raptor fans throughout the day as they enjoyed the a fine April afternoon in the city, did not roll over for the Raptors.

Former Celtic Bill Walker took the opportunity the Raptors lacklustre defence offered to match his career high by the three quarter mark with 23 points.

He would go on to finish with a game-high 28.

They Knicks, though, eventually ran out of gas or interest it was tough to tell, as they stayed with the Raptors for about 21/2 quarters only falling off in the latter stages of the third quarter.

The Raptors were particularly ineffective closing out on the Knicks three-point shooters last night although thats not exactly novel for this team.

The Knicks were 14-for-27 from three-point range. The high for any Raptors opponent from long range is 17 which was done by Orlando.

Every starter save Hedo Turkoglu (206-F-79) easily made it into double digits in this one. Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) finished up on a strong note with 24 points to go with his 33 Monday against Detroit.

Turkoglu's early foul trouble opened up some minutes for Demar DeRozan (201-F-89, college: USC) who finished up with 24 to tie BArgnani for the team lead, Amir Johnson, another guy who had a strong finish to the season got 21 Wednesday to go with his career high 26 Monday in Detroit.

The Raptors will clear out their lockers Thursday and perhaps explain what exactly went wrong from that all-star break when everything seemed to fall apart for this team.

At some point Chris Bosh will address the media, although anyone expecting an answer to his future at this stage in the game will likely be left wanting for a little while yet.

As will the rest of the Raptors fan base waiting for a trip back to the playoffs.

Courtesy of www.torontosun.com


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


Guangdong Wins Finals Opener 110-97 - by Arthur Volbert
Wang ShiPeng (197-F/G-83) scored 26 points as Guangdong defeated Xinjiang 110-97 in the first game of the CBA championship series. David Harrison had 23 points, 6 rebounds and 3 steals. Smush Parker had 18 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and and 3 steals. Zhu Fangyu had 17 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Zhou Peng had 15 points and 4 rebounds.

Charles Gaines had 30 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals for Xinjiang. Myron Allen had 25 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Mengke Bateer had 15 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Mulati scored 11 and Xu Guozhong scored 9.

Guangdong led 30-23 after one quarter and 57-47 at the half. It was ahead 83-74 after three quarters.


CBA Round: 1 (Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Guandong - Xinjiang 110-97
Guandong won the opener of the Finals beating Xinjiang 110:97. Wang ShiPeng (197-F/G-83) stepped up with 26 points and Harrison David delivered 23. Gaines Charles answered with 30 points in defeat, while Allen Myron notched 25.


Stats Leaders - CBA
Points Per Game
 Andre EMMETT
  Shandong
  (196-G/F-82)
  Avg: 32
 1. Emmett, Shandong32.0 
 2. Gaines, Xinjiang30.8 
 3. Pickett, Shaanxi29.8 
 4. Edwards, Shaanxi29.3 
 5. Rodgers, Jilin28.5 
 6. Lucas, Shanghai27.9 
 7. White, Zhejiang.27.5 
 8. Brown, Zhejiang C.26.1 
 9. Mays, Beijing26.0 
 10. Wang, Bayi25.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 DeAngelo COLLINS
  Trotamundos
  (206-F-82)
  Avg: 15.4
 1. Collins, Jilin15.4 
 2. Mays, Beijing13.2 
 3. Ramos, Zhejiang.13.0 
 4. Oyedeji, Liaoning12.2 
 5. Harvey, Jiangsu12.0 
 6. Swift, Shandong11.8 
 7. Brown, Beijing11.6 
 8. Okosa, Qingdao DS11.4 
 9. Williams, Zhejiang C.11.2 
 10. Williams, Fujian11.1 
Assists Per Game
 Stephon MARBURY
  Shanxi Zh.
  (187-G-77)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Marbury, Shanxi Z.9.5 
 2. Lu, Fujian7.2 
 3. Parker, Guandong5.9 
 4. Hu, Jiangsu5.1 
 5. Fahed, TianJin R.4.9 
 6. Liu, Shanghai4.8 
 7. Lucas, Shanghai4.7 
 8. Allen, Xinjiang4.4 
 9. Kelley, DongGuan4.4 
 10. Mengke, Xinjiang4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Chris WILLIAMS
  Qingdao DS
  (199-F/G-80)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Williams, Qingd.3.8 
 2. Hu, Jiangsu3.7 
 3. Parker, Guandong3.2 
 4. Marbury, Shanxi Z.2.6 
 5. Pickett, Shaanxi2.6 
 6. Allen, Xinjiang2.5 
 7. Emmett, Shandong2.4 
 8. Okosa, Qingdao DS2.3 
 9. Gaines, Xinjiang2.3 
 10. Lu, Fujian2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sean WILLIAMS
  Guaynabo
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Williams, Fujian4.2 
 2. Lamizana, TianJ.3.8 
 3. Swift, Shandong3.1 
 4. Collins, Jilin2.8 
 5. Steyn, Qingdao DS2.2 
 6. Xu, Bayi2.2 
 7. Wang, Bayi2.1 
 8. Simmons, DongGuan1.8 
 9. McCoy, Fujian1.8 
 10. Watkins, Jiangsu1.8 


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


Rok Stipcevic claims Croatian A1 weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
International guard Rok Stipcevic (188-G-86), agency: XL Basketball Agency) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader KK Zadar and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7 (Second Stage).
The 24-year old guard had the game-high 26 points adding five rebounds and five assists for his team's victory, helping them to crush Trogir (#14, 1-6) with 20-point margin 93-73. It allowed Zadar to consolidate first place in the Croatian A1. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. Zadar still have not lost a single game, getting all 7 victories in Second Stage. In the team's last game Stipcevic had a remarkable six three-pointers out of 10 attempts. He has many years of experience at Zadar, through which he has constantly improved. Rok Stipcevic averages this season 17.0ppg and 4.7apg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old former international Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84)) of KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje. Zoric impressed basketball fans with 26 points and 9 rebounds. Bad luck as KK Zagreb CO lost that game 70-87 to the higher-ranked Cibona (#3, 5-2). This loss caused KK Zagreb CO to drop to 8th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 4-2 record is not bad and everything may still change. Zoric is well-known by KK Zagreb CO fans and he already established his position as the team's most reliable player.

The third best performed player last round was Ante Krapic (202-F-85)) of KK Zabok (#9). Krapic scored 20 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of Zabok, leading his team to a 88-62 easy win against the lower-ranked Darda (#12, 1-6). The chances of Zabok ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 4 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Krapic could help Zabok to bring them higher in the standings. He has a great season in Croatia. After 25 games, Krapic made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 7.0rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) of Zadar - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Luka Drezga (196-G-87) of Trogir - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) of Cibona - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Mario Filipovic (195-G-88) of Sibenik - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assist
8. Karlo Vragovic (192-G-89) of Dubrava - 23 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Andrija Zizic (207-C-80) of Cedevita - 24 points and 4 rebounds
10. Stipe Rezic (201-G/F-89) of Kastela - 22 points, 5 rebounds and 1 assist

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


Madisons APOEL one win away from the title! - by Michael Aristidou
Only one step left for Madisons Apoel Nicosia to win this year championship. After a poor game Madisons Apoel Nicosia won Proteas EKA AEL Limassol 80-68 and now is ahead 2-0 in the finals. Next game is on Tuesday on Melford Arena. In the game now Madisons Apoel Nicosia had Rashid Atkins (182-G-75, agency: Interperformances, college: St.Joseph's) in great evening scoring 22 points. Madisons Apoel Nicosia never lost the lead in the score during the game. Proteas EKA AEL Limassol had their moments in third and fourth quarters where the reduse score to 60-56. Madisons Apoel Nicosia had the answers from free throws (after tecnical faouls given to Proteas EKA AEL Limassol). From Proteas EKA AEL Limassol Giorgos Palalas (185-G-81) and Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) where disq. from the game.

Quarters: 21-12,45-34,60-54,80-68

Madisons Apoel Nicosia: Sims Lewis 11 (1), Rashid Atkins 22 (1), Mokongo Mickael, Phillips Sullivan, Van Dorpe Gerben 10 (1), Heath Brandon 10, Dozet Milan 12 (2), Radojevic Aleksandar 6, Pittakas Iraklis, Anastasiadis Giorgos, Hughes Rick

Proteas EKA AEL Limassol: Davis Miah 5, Bracey Brian 8 (2), Liatsos Alexis, Kounounis Michalis 2, Giorgos Palalas, Giorgos Palalas, Quincy Taylor 15, Evtimov Ilian 5, Fells Courtney 18 (2), Giannoulis Giannis 14


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


Mattoni NBL Round 44: BK Pardubice (91) BK Prostejov (86) - by Surujh Roopnarine
This weekend will see the end of the NBL regular season, with the first game of the final round being played tonight in Pardubice. Pardubice will play Decin in the opening 4 5 match up of the playoffs while Prostejov will face either Kolin, Opava or Praha depending on their outcomes this weekend. On this night Prostejov played without big man Ales Chan and veteran swingman Jaroslav Prasil, and while this match up had no impact on playoff positioning, both teams wanted to enter the playoffs on a strong note. Additionally for the hosts, a win would avoid the embarrassment of being swept in the season series (Including Czech Cup) with the third place holders from Prostejov. The opening quarter was back and forth between both squads with Kyle Landry (206-F-86, college: N.Arizona) coming out firing for Prostejov and Martin Sykora matching him from Pardubice; however Prostejov took the opening quarter 23-24. In the second quarter Pardubice gained some momentum behind strong transition play of Derek Wright (175-G-86, college: Austin Peay St.) and Marcus Arnold. A deep three-point basket by Wright with 22 seconds to go before half helped Pardubice expand their lead and take a 46-37 lead into the locker rooms. Kyle Landry led all scorers with 15 first half points while Martin Sykora and Zbynek Pospisil paced the home team with 11 and 10 points respectively. Prostejov came out strong to start the second half eventually regaining the lead at 5:15 of the third on a layup from Kyle Landry to go up 54-52. From there the teams would trade baskets until Derek Wright banked in a three at the buzzer to give Pardubice a 68-65 lead heading into the final quarter. Unfortunately for Prostejov they would lose their floor general Eugene Lawrence or the remainder of the game with an injury to his right hand early in the quarter. Once again these teams battled down to the wire, with Pardubice holding an 84-83 lead with just over one minute remaining. However the fourth quarter belonged to Maurice Hampton (188-G-84, college: Austin Peay St.) who hit seven of eight free throws and scored a decisive basket all in the last two minutes of the game to secure the 31st win of the season for the hosts as they trumped Prostejov 91-86. Kyle Landry was outstanding in defeat, leading Prostejov (33-8) and all players with a game high 28 points. Six players scored in double figures for Pardubice, with Zbynek Popisil producing a team-high 16 points.
PROSTEJOV: Kyle Landry (28pt+8rb), Radoslaw Hyzy (12pt+10rb), Benas Veikalas (17pt), Andrius Slezas (13pt)
PARDUBICE: Zbynek Popisil (16pt+5as), Derek Wright (15pt+6to), Maurice Hampton (15pt), Marcus Arnold (11pt+6rb)

Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Myles MCKAY
  USK Praha
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 23.3
 1. McKay, USK P.23.3 
 2. Smith, BC Kolin16.9 
 3. Thomas, Podebrady16.7 
 4. Hatcher, BK Decin16.3 
 5. Stuchly, NH Ostrava15.9 
 6. Meno, Basketbo.15.4 
 7. Mulligan, BK Decin15.4 
 8. Castleberry, Podeb.15.0 
 9. Sarovic, Novy Jicin15.0 
 10. Hampton, BK Pardu.14.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tremaine FORD
  USK Praha
  (207-F-86)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Ford, USK Praha11.3 
 2. Castleberry, Podeb.9.4 
 3. Meno, Basketbo.9.0 
 4. Burke, NH Ostrava8.1 
 5. Landry, BK Prost.7.3 
 6. Chan, BK Prostejov7.3 
 7. Houska, BK Decin6.9 
 8. Payne, NH Ostrava6.5 
 9. Arnold, BK Pardu.6.4 
 10. Klimes, USK Praha5.9 
Assists Per Game
 Brad JONES
  BC Kolin
  (186-G-85)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Jones, BC Kolin4.8 
 2. Sanders, Novy Jicin4.6 
 3. Mitchell, NH Os.4.5 
 4. Lawrence, BK Prost.4.4 
 5. Kotas, USK Praha4.3 
 6. Carnecky, B&W O.4.3 
 7. Hatcher, BK Decin4.0 
 8. McKay, USK P.3.8 
 9. Vrubl, Basketbo.3.7 
 10. Wright, BK Pardu.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Lukas KOTAS
  USK Praha
  (194-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Kotas, USK Praha2.3 
 2. Lawrence, BK Prost.2.3 
 3. Mitchell, NH Os.2.2 
 4. Wright, BK Pardu.2.0 
 5. Mulligan, BK Decin1.9 
 6. McKay, USK P.1.9 
 7. Meno, Basketbo.1.9 
 8. Smith, BC Kolin1.8 
 9. Sirina, B&W Opava1.8 
 10. Lenzly, CEZ N.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Ales CHAN
  BK Prostejov
  (214-C-80)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Chan, BK Prostejov1.7 
 2. Ford, USK Praha1.5 
 3. Walker, Novy Jicin1.4 
 4. Meno, Basketbo.1.3 
 5. Payne, NH Ostrava1.2 
 6. Castleberry, Podeb.1.1 
 7. Ricci, CEZ Nymburk1.0 
 8. Steffel, Novy Jicin1.0 
 9. Pelikan, Novy Jicin1.0 
 10. Benda, CEZ Nymburk0.9 


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. CEZ Nymburk 38-3 
 2. Novy Jicin 38-4 
 3. BK Prostejov 34-8 
 4. BK Pardubice 31-13 
 5. BK Decin 27-16 
 6. USK Praha 17-25 
 7. B&W Opava 17-26 
 8. BC Kolin 17-26 
 9. NH Ostrava 12-31 
 10. Podebrady 11-32 
 11. Basketbol Brno 11-32 
 12. Vysehrad 3-40 


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


Basketligaen Finals: Rabbits take 1-0 lead against Bears - by Eurobasket News
Svendborg - Bakken 83-69
Svendborg celebrated 83-69 victory in Game 1 of the Playoff Finals. Johnell Smith (186-G-80, college: New Orleans) exploded last night with 35 points and 12 rebounds. Niccolai Iversen (205-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: San Jose City JC) helped the Rabbits with 17 points and 6 boards, while Ivan Hoger (225-C-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 10 pts and 13 rebs in this victory. Darryl Proctor (193-F-86, college: UMBC) shined in loss with 22 points and 7 boards. Game 2 is scheduled for April 19, but Bakken Bears will be the hosts this time.


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Mychal KEARSE
  Kahraba
  (194-G/F-83)
  Avg: 23.4
 1. Kearse, SISU23.4 
 2. Smith, Svendborg23.0 
 3. Morris, Aabyhoj21.3 
 4. Johnson, Bakken21.0 
 5. Nielsen, Randers20.4 
 6. Cavanuagh, Aalborg20.0 
 7. Dennis, Naestved19.0 
 8. Claitt, Horsens IC18.7 
 9. Vance, Aalborg18.6 
 10. Proctor, Bakken18.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chris CHRISTOFFERSEN
  Bakken
  (218-C-79)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Christoffers., Bak.10.1 
 2. Willis, Randers9.3 
 3. Miskovic, Randers9.3 
 4. Morris, Aabyhoj9.3 
 5. Vance, Aalborg9.0 
 6. Iversen, Svendborg8.4 
 7. Johansen, Naestved8.4 
 8. Cavanuagh, Aalborg7.7 
 9. Kearse, SISU7.4 
 10. Johnson, Horsens IC7.4 
Assists Per Game
 D.J. SMEDLEY
  Randers
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Smedley, Randers6.5 
 2. Bradley, Amager BK5.3 
 3. Rinkevicius, SISU5.1 
 4. Claitt, Horsens IC4.5 
 5. Nielsen, Horsholm4.5 
 6. Darboe, Horsholm4.3 
 7. Jakobsen, Bakken4.2 
 8. Iversen, Svendborg3.8 
 9. Christensen, Amager B.3.8 
 10. Thuesen, Bakken3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Johnell SMITH
  Svendborg
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Smith, Svendborg2.7 
 2. Kearse, SISU2.1 
 3. Proctor, Bakken2.0 
 4. Fall, Horsens IC1.8 
 5. Dennis, Naestved1.7 
 6. Houguet, Aalborg1.6 
 7. Nielsen, Randers1.6 
 8. Nielsen, Horsholm1.5 
 9. Iversen, Svendborg1.5 
 10. Smedley, Randers1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Chris CHRISTOFFERSEN
  Bakken
  (218-C-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Christoffers., Bak.2.4 
 2. Morris, Aabyhoj2.2 
 3. Johnson, Bakken1.8 
 4. Willis, Randers1.6 
 5. Cavanuagh, Aalborg1.3 
 6. Miskovic, Randers1.3 
 7. Vance, Aalborg1.1 
 8. Seilund, Amager BK1.1 
 9. Guyton, Aabyhoj1.0 
 10. Hakanowitz, Horsh.0.9 


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mike HARRIS
  Rio Grande
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 27.6
 1. Harris, Rio Grande27.6 
 2. Almond, Springfi.26.8 
 3. Williams, Sioux F.26.4 
 4. Johnson, Sioux F.23.3 
 5. Farmer, Reno B.23.1 
 6. Powell, Albuquerque22.2 
 7. Taylor, Idaho S.21.9 
 8. McLeod, Albuquer.21.8 
 9. Gee, Austin T.21.2 
 10. Jerrells, Austin T.21.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwayne JONES
  Phoenix Suns
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 16
 1. Jones, Austin T.16.0 
 2. Dorsey, Rio Grande13.2 
 3. Butch, Bakersfi.12.0 
 4. Johnson, Sioux F.11.2 
 5. Harris, Rio Grande10.5 
 6. Barron, Iowa E.10.2 
 7. Benson, Reno B.10.1 
 8. Kurz, Ft.Wayne MA10.1 
 9. Simpson, Los A.9.5 
 10. Bryant, Erie Bay H.9.5 
Assists Per Game
 Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Stinson, Iowa E.10.8 
 2. Conroy, Rio Grande9.5 
 3. Jackson, Erie B.7.4 
 4. Blalock, Reno B.7.4 
 5. Dickau, Ft.Wayne.7.1 
 6. Johnson, Bakersfi.7.1 
 7. Curry, Springfield A.7.1 
 8. Gaines, Idaho S.6.9 
 9. Shakur, Tulsa 66ers6.7 
 10. Barrett, Idaho S.6.7 
Steals Per Game
 Orien GREENE
  Utah F.
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Greene, Utah F.2.5 
 2. Trepagnier, Iowa E.2.3 
 3. Shakur, Tulsa 66ers2.2 
 4. Stinson, Iowa E.2.1 
 5. Jackson, Erie B.2.1 
 6. Robinson, Maine RC2.0 
 7. Robinson, Reno B.2.0 
 8. Jerrells, Austin T.1.9 
 9. Jeffers, Iowa E.1.9 
 10. McLeod, Albuquer.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Kurt LOOBY
  Maine RC
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 4
 1. Looby, Maine RC4.0 
 2. Stiemsma, Sioux F.3.7 
 3. Looby, Albuquerque3.3 
 4. Ajinca, Maine RC3.1 
 5. Simmons, Idaho S.2.9 
 6. Alleyne, Albuquerque2.2 
 7. Benson, Reno B.1.9 
 8. Jones, Austin T.1.8 
 9. Trybanski, Reno B.1.7 
 10. Davis, Maine RC1.6 


Mildon Ambres earns 2009-10 NBA Development League Most Improved Player award - by Eurobasket News
Idaho Stampede guard Mildon Ambres (6'5''-F/G-84, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: S.Nazarene) was today named the 2009-10 NBA Development League's Most Improved Player, as voted on by the 16 NBA D-League coaches. The award honors a player who demonstrated the most significant improvement on the court during the course of the year.

'I'm extremely happy for Mildon as he earns this well deserved award,' said Stampede head coach Bob MacKinnon . 'Being honored as the most improved player in a league that is all about development is such a great tribute to how hard Mildon worked and the dedication of the coaching staff this past season.'

Ambres, one of two members of the Stampede to play in all 50 of the team's games, earned 30 starts and averaged 14.5 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 28.9 minutes. He scored in double figures 38 times, including a season-high 32 points in a 165-153 overtime victory over the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on March 31 in Boise. Ambres helped the Stampede to a 25-25 record on the season.

'Mildon demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his craft, working hard every night to improve all aspects of his game,' said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations for the NBA D-League. 'His dedication to improving his skills is directly in line with the NBA D-League's core mission of developing the top basketball prospects in the world and I congratulate Mildon on his impressive accomplishment.'

Ambres becomes the first NBA D-League player to earn the honor.

Courtesy D-League (take from www.oursportscentral.com


Bakersfield's Brian Butch earns Impact Player Of The Year award - by Eurobasket News
Bakersfield Jam center Brian Butch (6'11''-F/C-84, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wisconsin) was named the NBA Development League's Impact Player of the Year as voted on by the NBA D-League's 16 head coaches, the NBA D-League announced today. Given to a player who joins an NBA D-League team following the start of the season, the Impact Player of the Year award honors an athlete who made the greatest contribution following his in-season acquisition.

'Brian came into Bakersfield and was a great example for the rest of our team in terms of his work ethic and his voice - he was a leader almost immediately after arriving here,' said Bakersfield head coach Will Voigt. 'He was a big lift for our team all season long, and we're all excited for him to have earned this award.'

Butch appeared in 39 games, 38 starts, for Bakersfield, averaging 17.7 points, 11.9 rebounds (second in the NBA D-League) and 1.7 assists in 33.9 minutes. He earned a GATORADE Call-Up to the Denver Nuggets on April 11.

Following his arrival in Bakersfield on Dec. 19, Butch scored in double figures 36 times and recorded 25 double-doubles. He tallied a season-high 33 points in a 120-109 road victory over the Tulsa 66ers on March 25, and pulled down a season-high 24 rebounds in a 102-97 victory over the Albuquerque Thunderbirds on Feb. 23, in Bakersfield.

Butch, a Wisconsin graduate, led the Jam in rebounding 30 times and was the team's leading scorer in seven games. The 2010 NBA D-League All-Star Most Valuable Player, Butch scored 18 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in Dallas in February. The Jam finished the season with a 17-33 record.

'Brian joined the Jam this season and had an immediate impact on the team,' said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Personnel for the NBA D-League. 'His contributions to Bakersfield during the course of the season were evident every night through his hard work, dedication, and commitment to developing his skills and elevating his team's performance.'

Butch joins Eddie Gill (Colorado, 2009) and Morris Almond (Utah, 2008) as players who have received the NBA D-League's Impact Player of the Year award.

Courtesy of D-League (taken from www.oursportscentral.com)


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


Santiago: Semifinals Getting Tight On Everyone! - by Ozell Wells
Sameji took a major step towards the Grand Final by defeating CPN Pueblo Nuevo -100-90, in the final round of the semifinal series

Sameji rode the dynamic play of Emmanuel 'Manny Quezada (188-G-85, college: USF), Juan Coronado (196-G-84), and Amaury Filion (206-C/F-81).

Sameji, now with a 3-2 record only needs one more win to be in the Grand Final of the tournament administered by the Basketball Association of Santiago de los Caballeros, ABASACA.

Manny Quezada, Coronado and Filion produced 68 of the 100 points of his team, which dominated both the first and the second half of the game: 49 - 44 and 51 - 46.

Quezada, offensive hero of the match scored 29 points, including 7 - 5 from the 3pt line, Juan Coronado, supported him with 22 points scoring 6 of 5 '3pt shots, and add to that 9 rebounds while Amaury Filion scored 17points.

In addition to these three, the rookie Benito Flores (198-F-80, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) scored 11 points, Carlos Payano (196-F/G-71, college: Dowling) and Daniel Tavarez 7 each.

For CPN Pueblo Nuevo, who was left with a record of 2-3 at this stage, Jamaal Thomas (202-F-80, college: Angelo St.) drilled the basket to produce 21 points, Luis Cabrera (180-G-80)-17, Eric Ferguson (186-G-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Arkansas), debuting and Carlos 'Charlie' Rodriguez 14 points each.

PUEBLO NUEVO 42 - CDP Domingo Paulino Santiago 31 ... HALFTIME SCORE!!!

At press time in the second game of the night, also of vital importance for both teams, CDP Domingo Paulino Santiago was losing to CPN Pueblo Nuevo by a score of 42-31, to conclude the first half, after having also won the first quarter 20 to 15.

CPN Pueblo Nuevo with a win by more than 6 points ensures their participation in the FINAL ROUND, this would even be if they lose to Sameji tomorrow, Friday.

Such a situation could occur with CDP Domingo Paulino Santiago, but in this case they win, CDP Domingo Paulino Santiago, should await the outcome of tomorrow in their match against CPN Pueblo Nuevo.
courtesy of ABASACA

*****************************************************
  EGYPT   


ONE STEP CLOSER - by Chudney Gray
There are no actual words that can possibly describe the wonders of this years team. We've supremely exceeded all expectations and now find ourselves faced with the favor of making Egyptian basketball history. It's been absolutely remarkable.
The ride, which began in early September will soon end as May closes in. In the medium, we've been able to capture 4 titles with our last feat being the league championship, which will take place in the upcoming weeks. We're very focussed on our prospects and won't settle for anything short of hoisting the golden cup as our season fades to black.
With only 5 games to go, we have to secure 4 wins in order to repeat as back to back league champions. We'll head to Cairo within the next 4-5 days to prepare and get ready for our games.
With every great team there's usually a great supporting cast. In our case, we tip our hats to the best fans in Egypt.
The Ittihad 'green squad' are amazing. They are true supporters and have demonstrated their love and devotion to the team all year long. They travel high and wide to see us play. They paint their faces, they bang their drums, they even have synchronized chants that gets us pumped up and going. They have definitely aided in our overall success with how well we've done this season. I can't thank them enough. Since my arrival, they've treated me with great respect and admiration. It's been a great feeling to actually know that you're wanted and appreciated.
So, with our show headed for the road, we'll hopefully stick to the script and bring the trophy back to Alexandria. It should be sweet! I know the city will be in a frenzy.
Not tooting my horn.. but I can't wait!!!!!
Wish me luck!!!!

As always, stay safe and blessed
peace

Check Me out: www.chudneygray.com
The blog is maintained by Chudney Gray (188-G-78, college: St.John's) (188-G-78, college: St.John's) of Al Ittihad Alexandria

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Charron FISHER
  Kalev/Cramo
  (193-G/F-85)
  Avg: 23.2
 1. Fisher, Kalev/Cr.23.2 
 2. McGee, Kuremaa19.2 
 3. Navickas, Valga Welg18.1 
 4. Kriisa, Rakvere16.9 
 5. Reed, Tallinna Kalev16.5 
 6. Toome, TTU K.16.4 
 7. Covington, Tallin.16.4 
 8. Akognon, Kalev/Cr.16.0 
 9. Veideman, Rakvere15.3 
 10. Raap, Parnu15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brett MCGEE
  Kuremaa
  (198-G/F-84)
  Avg: 11
 1. McGee, Kuremaa11.0 
 2. Ringmets, Parnu9.6 
 3. Reed, Tallinna Kalev9.2 
 4. Toome, TTU K.8.7 
 5. Fisher, Kalev/Cr.8.4 
 6. Rinkevicius, Valga W.8.0 
 7. Erm, Parnu7.9 
 8. Tagamets, Valga W.7.7 
 9. Owens, Kalev/Cramo7.3 
 10. Kriisa, Rakvere7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Valmo KRIISA
  Rakvere
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 4.6
 1. Kriisa, Rakvere4.6 
 2. Navickas, Valga Welg4.3 
 3. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo4.0 
 4. Sokk, TU/Rock3.4 
 5. Rannula, Valga Welg3.2 
 6. Leppik, TU/Rock3.0 
 7. Saage, Rakvere3.0 
 8. Toome, TTU K.2.7 
 9. Tein, TU/Rock2.6 
 10. Winston, Kuremaa2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Silver LEPPIK
  TU/Rock
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 2. Covington, Tallin.2.2 
 3. Raap, Parnu2.1 
 4. Veideman, Rakvere2.1 
 5. Fisher, Kalev/Cr.2.0 
 6. Saage, Rakvere2.0 
 7. Karner, Parnu2.0 
 8. Kriisa, Rakvere1.7 
 9. Ringmets, Parnu1.7 
 10. Tamm, TTU K.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Kennyetta JOHNSON
  Kalev/Cramo
  (210-C-78)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Johnson, Kalev/Cr.2.3 
 2. Rinkevicius, Valga W.1.9 
 3. Toome, TTU K.1.6 
 4. McGee, Kuremaa1.1 
 5. Morrison, TU/Rock1.0 
 6. Hallik, Rakvere0.9 
 7. Talts, TU/Rock0.9 
 8. Owens, Kalev/Cramo0.8 
 9. Kitsing, TU/Rock0.8 
 10. Ringmets, Parnu0.7 


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


Interview: Dusko Vujosevic, Head Coach of Partizan Belgrade - by Eurobasket News
Although Paris will be only his second Final Four, when it comes to experience, Dusko Vujosevic has lapped the other coaches he will see in the City of Lights. Vujosevic has about as many years on the bench coaching as the other three Final Four head coaches combined. In fact, he coached against two of them as players, including Olympiacos boss Panagiotis Giannakis at the original Final Four in 1988. But experience is not the only thing that separates Vujosevic, the Aleksander Gomelski Coach of the Year last season, from the rest. First a Partizan supporter and junior player before entering coaching, Vujosevic enjoys a special bond with the Partizan fans. He just completed his ninth straight season and 14th overall on the Partizan bench and has been, along with the fans, the main recurring factor in the clubs success. 'There is a secret ingredient to our success... We always have a great desire to win,' Vujosevic told Euroleague.net. 'We work very hard and we try to improve every day in practice. We probably work more than all the other teams. I think the work we put in every day is more important than what we do in the games.'

Hello coach and congratulations on reaching the Final Four! You have taken Partizan to the Final Four despite the odds. How do you feel personally about this accomplishment?
Even the most courageous person could not have dreamed of us reaching the Final Four when the season began. But when the games began, we just thought about the best ways to beat our opponents. We simply tried to do our best. There are the fans, there is pressure, and you never think the opponents are better than you are. So we took things game by game and we arrived here at the end. The team was completed before we went on our preseason tour of the States, but without foreign players. After we added them, day-by-day we created the atmosphere we wanted and then the big wins came, giving us more courage and motivation. We're a good team, and by making a lot of upsets we arrived here. After the decisive game with Maccabi, there was a great happiness, but it was just for a short time. We had to look forward to the next challenge.

When did you start to see the Final Four as a real possibility for your team this season?
After Game 1 [of the Quarterfinal Playoffs] in Tel Aviv, that night I understood we had a good chance to reach the Final Four, but it wasn't easy to beat them three times in eight days. That is not easy for anyone.

You said during the Euroleague American Tour back in October that it would help in the important moments of the season. How did that tour help you become a better team?
'It was very difficult to go there and play game against the best athletes in the world and lose by 30 or 40 points. Then you have to travel a lot, there is the jet leg, and we came back when the season was already started here in Europe. And we began with many defeats. But I think that when you go to play against big players, you understand what it means to play at that level, and you can improve. Those games gave my players a great lesson in playing at a different speed and intensity, for example. And I had the opportunity to talk with the coaches of those teams, exchange ideas and experiences, and it was very important for our improvements during the season. It was also for the club a good occasion to build more respect and tradition.'

This will be your first Final Four since coaching Partizan at the original one back in 1988. What do you remember about your first Final Four, against such legendary players like Panagiotis Giannakis, who is now on the bench at Olympiacos?
'We were victims of the competition system change at that time. Previously, there was just a final game between the first two in the standings, and in 1988 the Final Four arrived and everything changed. We were first in the table, but we played in the semifinal against Maccabi, which was ranked fourth, and we finished just third after beating Aris, which had legendary players like Nikos Galis and Panagiotis Giannakis, who was a player with great physical power, a great defender, a man with great pride. Our team was full of young guys and the better part of them became top-level players later.'

What sort of particular challenge does Olympiacos present in the semifinal for your team?
'The game with Olympiacos is still far away. Lets say that on paper, they are the favorite, but we play on a neutral court and all four teams coming to Paris have the same 25-percent chance of winning the Euroleague.'

Even though Partizan is famous for its homegrown players, you found success with major contributions from Jan Vesely, Aleks Maric, Lawrence Roberts and Bo McCalebb - all relative newcomers to Belgrade. How do you turn new players into real Partizan stars so quickly?
Each of us was born in a country, but it does not depend on us where that was. Its just a fact that Vesely was born in the Czech Republic, or McCalebb in the United States or Maric in Australia. Here at Partizan everybody is a homegrown player! There are not Serbian players and foreign players. We know just Partizan players. All of them have the same rights and the same responsibilities. They play to accomplish what we set out to do in the locker room and during practice. They have to go out and do what they do best, simple things but all together, and the fans like that.'

Partizan seems to lose important players every summer, but remains competitive. What is the secret to keeping Partizan a solid Euroleague team year after year?
'There is a secret ingredient to our success... We always have a great desire to win. We work very hard and we try to improve every day in practice. We probably work more than all the other teams. I think the work we put in every day is more important than what we do in the games.'

Partizan has based its success on strength at home, where tens of thousands of fans create an incredible basketball atmosphere. How much did they influence Partizan getting to the Final Four?
Listen, I think we won many important games on the road, like in Malaga against Unicaja, in Athens against Panathinaikos and Game 1 in Tel Aviv against Maccabi, so I think we're not just a home-oriented team. All teams play better on their home court, but we have the heart to win against big teams on the road. And we'll play the next games on a neutral court...'

Were you a Partizan fan as a young person, too, in the stands at Pionir, before making basketball your profession?
'Yes, sure. I played for Partizan youth teams, but I did not have the talent and it was a bad situation for me knowing that I would never be part of the main team. So my job became different. I had no talent for shooting, but I had different talent, the one you need to be a coach, and I switched to that job. When I work for a team, I'm the first fan of that team, but when I'm without job, and it has happened, I support Partizan. My idol when I was a fan in the stands in Pionir was Drazen Dalipagic.'

Partizan is just two wins away from its second Euroleague title. After so many years at the club, what would it mean for you, personally, to lift the Euroleague trophy in Paris?
'I know we are probably not considered the main candidate to lift the trophy, but to be there for me will be the chance to achieve the dream of my lifetime.'

And how do you feel now for the players on your team when no one else believed they could do something like this?
'Im really proud of my players, they are great people first of all. They get along and work hard every day in practice, so I'm really happy for them.'

Courtesy of Euroleague (http://www.euroleague.net/features/interviews/euroleague-2009-10/i/70512/3991/dusko-vujosevic-partizan)

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


KORISLIIGA: New Coach and sporthall - by Rauno Hurmalainen
There will be a new sporthall by the year 2010 end and possibly a new Head Coach as Karhu (Kauhajoki) will start the third season (2010-11) on top level at the end of September. When searching a new coach there are already seven signed players on the roster. Jeremiah Wood (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) (19,8 ppg - 14,0 rpg) will be joined by Aleksi Huuskonen (188-G-88) (6,0 ppg), Santeri Latvala (187-G-91) (1,9), Roni Leimu (188-G-82) (9,8), Sad Niskanen (198-F-88) (5,2), Eldar Skamo (195-F-86) (11,5) and Henry Umoru (202-C-85) (3,1). This season Karhu (record 14-30) used 19 players on Team roster, 10 of them American players.


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


Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. Le Mans 20-6 
 2. Cholet 19-7 
 3. Roanne 18-9 
 4. Gravelines 17-9 
 5. Orleans 17-9 
 6. Nancy 16-10 
 7. Paris-Levall. 14-13 
 8. Poitiers 13-13 
 9. Vichy 12-14 
 10. Hyeres-Toulon 12-15 
 11. ASVEL 12-15 
 12. Chalon 10-16 
 13. Le Havre 8-18 
 14. Strasbourg 8-18 
 15. Dijon 7-19 
 16. Rouen 7-19 


Standings - ProB
ProB Standings
 1. Pau-Lacq-Ort. 26-4 
 2. Limoges 20-9 
 3. Maurienne 19-11 
 4. Lille 19-11 
 5. Bourg 18-11 
 6. Nanterre 18-11 
 7. Evreux 18-12 
 8. Le Portel 17-12 
 9. St.Vallier 13-16 
 10. Boulazac 13-17 
 11. Fos Ouest 12-17 
 12. Nantes 12-18 
 13. Charleville 12-18 
 14. Antibes 11-18 
 15. Clermont 11-19 
 16. Quimper 9-20 
 17. Bordeaux 9-21 
 18. Brest 9-21 


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Derrick OBASOHAN
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (199-F-81)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Obasohan, Hyeres-T.19.5 
 2. Spencer, Le Mans18.3 
 3. Roberson, Stras.17.9 
 4. Vassallo, Paris-.17.3 
 5. Banks, Orleans17.0 
 6. Gray, Chalon16.8 
 7. Chatfield, Rouen16.0 
 8. Greer, Nancy15.7 
 9. Schilb, Chalon15.5 
 10. Traore, AS.15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mouhamed SENE
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (213-C-86)
  Avg: 12
 1. Sene, Hyeres-Toulon12.0 
 2. Issa, Vichy11.3 
 3. Greer, Nancy8.9 
 4. Nsonwu, Roanne8.9 
 5. Edwards, Grave.8.0 
 6. Falker, Cholet8.0 
 7. Terrell, Hyeres-T.7.4 
 8. Gray, Chalon7.1 
 9. Akpomedah, Grave.7.0 
 10. Slaughter, Nancy6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Vichy
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Reid, Vichy7.5 
 2. Everett, Chalon6.8 
 3. Rogers, Rouen6.4 
 4. Greer, Nancy6.1 
 5. Neitzel, Chalon5.3 
 6. Heurtel, Strasbourg5.1 
 7. Pierce, Hyeres-T.5.1 
 8. Sciarra, Orleans5.1 
 9. Woodside, Gravelines4.8 
 10. Tchicamboud, Nancy4.8 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Cholet
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Linehan, Cholet2.7 
 2. Everett, Chalon2.1 
 3. Flowers, Vichy2.0 
 4. Issa, Vichy1.9 
 5. Greer, Nancy1.9 
 6. Rogers, Rouen1.8 
 7. Mims, Roanne1.8 
 8. Miller, Le Havre1.7 
 9. Wright, Le Mans1.7 
 10. Ball, Paris-Levallois1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Mouhamed SENE
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (213-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Sene, Hyeres-Toulon2.5 
 2. Issa, Vichy2.3 
 3. Akpomedah, Grave.1.7 
 4. Badiane, Poitiers1.6 
 5. Slaughter, Nancy1.5 
 6. Falker, Cholet1.4 
 7. Fazekas, Dijon1.3 
 8. Akingbala, Nancy1.3 
 9. Simon, Strasbourg1.2 
 10. Darden, Strasbourg1.2 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 Jason SIGGERS
  Lille
  (187-G-85)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Siggers, Lille18.3 
 2. Davis, Charleville17.7 
 3. Dunn, Maurienne16.7 
 4. Mohammed, Limoges16.6 
 5. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.16.6 
 6. Downey, Nantes16.4 
 7. Huertas, Fos Ouest16.1 
 8. McKenzie, St Va.16.0 
 9. Ingram, Clermont16.0 
 10. Gay, Fos Ouest15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Luc-Arthur VEBOBE
  Antibes
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Vebobe, Antibes10.5 
 2. Giles, Nantes9.3 
 3. Bing, Clermont8.4 
 4. Lovedale, Quimper8.2 
 5. McClark, Bourg8.1 
 6. McKenzie, St Va.7.8 
 7. Calasan, Charleville7.7 
 8. McHugh, Quimper7.4 
 9. Mathis, Evreux7.4 
 10. Badiane, Maurienne7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Da Silva, Evreux8.1 
 2. Downey, Nantes7.7 
 3. Taylor, Le Portel6.5 
 4. Kerckhof, Antibes6.0 
 5. Mullins, Bourg5.9 
 6. McIntosh, St Va.5.8 
 7. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.5.7 
 8. Cisse, Fos Ouest5.0 
 9. Dunn, Maurienne4.9 
 10. Swift, Brest4.8 
Steals Per Game
 Sami DRISS
  Bordeaux
  (196-G-82)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Driss, Bordeaux2.9 
 2. Riley, Nanterre2.7 
 3. Craven, Boulazac2.6 
 4. Da Silva, Evreux2.2 
 5. Denave, St Vallier2.2 
 6. Siggers, Lille2.2 
 7. Periac, Bordeaux2.2 
 8. Mullins, Bourg2.1 
 9. Dunn, Maurienne2.1 
 10. Toto N''Kote, Quimp.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Moussa BADIANE
  Maurienne
  (205-C-81)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Badiane, Maurienne1.8 
 2. Ford, Limoges1.7 
 3. Gay, Fos Ouest1.7 
 4. Williams, Bordeaux1.7 
 5. Owona, Bordeaux1.6 
 6. Taccoen, Lille1.1 
 7. Gouez, Lille1.0 
 8. N''Diaye, Le Portel0.9 
 9. McCord, Limoges0.9 
 10. Jennings, Boulazac0.9 


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


Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. Bayreuth 23-5 
 2. Cuxhaven 21-7 
 3. Braves 20-8 
 4. Kirchheim 18-10 
 5. Karlsruhe 18-10 
 6. Crailsheim 15-14 
 7. Chemnitz 14-14 
 8. B.Muenchen 14-14 
 9. Osnabrueck 14-15 
 10. Hannover 12-16 
 11. Jena 11-17 
 12. Heidelberg 11-17 
 13. ETB Wohnbau 10-18 
 14. Freiburg 10-18 
 15. Langen 8-20 
 16. Noerdlingen 6-22 


Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 Tyler KEPKAY
  ETB Wohnbau
  (183-G-87)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Kepkay, ETB W.21.5 
 2. Holloway, Hannover21.4 
 3. Jeka, Cuxhaven19.8 
 4. Hodges, Heidelberg19.6 
 5. Baxley, Braves19.3 
 6. Dorris, Cuxhaven18.7 
 7. Roessler, Karlsruhe18.5 
 8. Burleson, Heidelberg18.1 
 9. Brooks, Kirchheim17.6 
 10. Wachalski, Osnab.17.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alonzo HIRD
  Langen
  (206-F-83)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Hird, Langen11.1 
 2. Smallwood, Braves9.7 
 3. Richardson, Karls.9.2 
 4. Black, Karlsruhe9.1 
 5. Baker, Osnabrueck8.7 
 6. Maras, B.Muenchen8.6 
 7. Rastatter, Chemn.8.4 
 8. Chones, ETB W.7.8 
 9. Jackson-W., Jena7.6 
 10. Ferguson, Noerdlin.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Whit HOLCOMB-FAYE
  Braves
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Holcomb-Faye, Bra.8.3 
 2. Jeka, Cuxhaven5.5 
 3. Bynum, Crailsheim5.5 
 4. Watson, Noerdlin.5.1 
 5. Holloway, Hannover4.9 
 6. Zazai, Freiburg4.9 
 7. Harrelson, Osnab.4.8 
 8. Burleson, Heidelberg4.5 
 9. Kepkay, ETB W.4.4 
 10. Brooks, Kirchheim4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Emmanuel HOLLOWAY
  Hannover
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Holloway, Hannover2.3 
 2. Dorris, Cuxhaven2.3 
 3. Zazai, Freiburg2.1 
 4. Brooks, Kirchheim2.1 
 5. Burleson, Heidelberg2.0 
 6. Hunter, Freiburg1.9 
 7. Hodges, Heidelberg1.9 
 8. Scott, Kirchheim1.9 
 9. Jeka, Cuxhaven1.7 
 10. Johnson, Chemnitz1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Anthony SLACK
  Hannover
  (202-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Slack, Hannover2.2 
 2. De Michael, Kirchheim1.8 
 3. Schoo, Hannover1.5 
 4. Hill, Jena1.4 
 5. Fuller, Cuxhaven1.3 
 6. Maras, B.Muenchen1.3 
 7. Buse, Osnabrueck1.0 
 8. Seward, Bayreuth1.0 
 9. Smallwood, Braves0.9 
 10. Roquette, Freiburg0.9 


Michael Jenkins (Walter TIgers Tuebingen) Pregame Thoughts To Ewe Baskets Oldenburg Game April 17th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Michael Jenkins (191-G-86, college: Winthrop) is a 22 year old 192 cm guard from Kinston, North Carolina. He played at Winthrop (NCAA) from 2004-2008. He didnt play as much his first two seasons, but got increased playing time in his junior and senior years. As a junior, he averaged 14.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PTConf-1 (41.5%), FT: 70.2% in 34 games. In his senior year, he played 34 games and averaged 13.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PTConf-6 (36.8%), FT: 71.3%: and finished his career as the 10th leading scorer in Winthrop history with 1,253 points. With Winthrop, he was the Big South Conf. Regular Season Champion in 2005, 2006 and 2007 and won the Big South Conf Tournament from 2005-2008. He was named to the Big South Conf. All-Tournament Team in 2007 and 2008. In his first professional season 2008-2009, he was drafted by the Albany Patrons of the CBA and in November 2008 signed with the Albany Patroons playing 3 games and averaging 6.7ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 47.4%, but left during the season and moved to BC Buducnost Podgorica (Bosnia-1A) in Feb 2009. He spoke to Eurobasket before the game against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

How did you spend the BEKO BBL cup weekend?


I just relaxed.

What was your impression of the Cup final between Frankfurt and Bamberg?


I didn't get a chance to watch it because we had practice. I saw it was a close game though.

How much belief is there in still reaching the playoffs?



It's pretty much out of reach now but we are still going to play like there is a chance.

The next game is against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg. What is your memory of the 87-61 loss in Oldenburg?



My memories of the first game against them are of Ricky Paulding hitting a lot of jumpers.


What is the biggest challenge when defending a Rickey Paulding?


You just have to play solid defense and hope he misses his shots.

What will be the key to winning the game?


Playing aggressive defense, rebounding, and running our offense well.

What is your nicest memory of Eisbaeren Bremerhaven forward Torrell Martin that you had together at Winthrop?



.My nicest memory of Torrell is when we played, at the time #2 ranked, Wisconsin and he dropped 31 pts. He scored like the first 12 points of the game for us.

What sporting event do you follow now that the NCAA tournament is over?



The NBA playoffs are about to start!
Thanks Michael for the chat.


Brandon Thomas Pregame Thoughts To Brose Baskets Bamberg Game April 18th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Massachusetts) is a 25 year old 198cm shooting guard from San Antonio, Texas that was born in Bitburg Germany and is playing his first season with The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. He is long and athletic and capable of defending anyone on the floor; ability to accelerate and finish around the basket. Possesses an outstanding basketball IQ. He played at Long island (NCAA) from 2002-2004 and then went to UMASS from 2005-2007. In 2007, he played in Denmark leading the league in scoring for Team FOG Naestved playing 24 games: Score-1 (24.5ppg), 4.6rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 71.0%. He was the Danish player of the year in 2008 and was the 2008 Allstar game MVP. Last season, he played in Austria for Kraftwerk Wels playing 45 games averaging 20.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 66.6%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 68.5%. Brandon took some time to talk to Eurobasket before the game against The Brose Baskets Bonn this weekend.

How did you spend the BEKO BBL Cup weekend?



Preparing for our game against Alba and relaxing with my family.

What was your impression of the Cup final Frankfurt-Bamberg?



It was a tough game and both teams played with a lot of passion. In the end I think Bamberg deserved it.

How dangerous a team is Bamberg currently? They probably are not the deepest team in the league, but very much may have the best harmony?



They are talented and very dangerous with the potential to win it all. I am really looking forward to the challenge this weekend.

Braunschweig is continuing to play great basketball. Has the belief that the team can achieve much grown with the win against 8 time BEKO BBL champion Alba Berlin?


We have always had great expectations for this team and we are playing well while realizing we can achieve our goals.

The next game is against The Brose Baskets Bamberg. What is your memory of the 80-73 loss at home?


I remember the game being close and Jacobsen hitting a clutch three that put the game out of reach.

Bamberg is a team that has an all around good offense/defense game. How does one get around their strength best?



I think we have many qualities that are similar. It will be tough to get around their strengths but hopefully this week our strengths and preparation will give us the edge

Many dont know, but Anton Gavel and John Goldsberry could very well be the most underrated point guard duo in the BEKO BBK. How awake will you have to be against them?



We are well aware of both of them and we have a serious task ahead trying to contain them.

What do sporting event do you follow now since the NCAA tournament is over?


The NBA and The BEKO BBL
Thanks Brandon for the chat.

Deandre Haynes (Paderborn Baskets) Pregame Thoughts To MBC Game April 17th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
DeAndre Haynes (187-G-84, college: Kent St.)s a 25 year old 187 cm guard from Detroit Michigan that is playing his first season in the BEKO BBL with The Paderborn Baskets. He played at Kent from 2002-2005 and at Kent state from 2005-2006. In his senior year, he played 34 games averaging 13.0ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.9apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 78.6%. He won the MAC Tournament in 2006 and was player of the year in the MAC conference in 2006. He came to Europe as a rookie and played in Belgium for BBC Royal Atomia Brussels playing 23 games and averaging 4.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.0spg. The next season, he stayed in Belgium and played for Okapi Aalstar playing 35 games averaging 9.4ppg, 1.5rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 74.0%. Last season, he played in Hungary for Kecskemeti Univer KSE playing 26 games averaging 13.6ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.4apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 61.1%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 70.9%. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against MBC.

How did you spend the BEKO BBL weekend?


I spent my weekend in Paderborn watching the Final Four games.

What was your impression of the final between Frankfurt and Bamberg?


It was a great game, I like the way both team was battling to get the win. You could feel the intensity change after the little scuffle between a couple of players from the game. I think it sparked Aubrey Reese, and made everyone play harder.

The next game is against MBC. What is your memory of the 75-70 win at home?


Last thing I remember is that it was a great win for us, but we know it's not going to be an easy game, especially with the new edition to their roster.

It was a very curious game. Paderborn won the rebounding, but had 24 turnovers and MBC shot 15,8% from outside. What can we expect this time in the very loud MBC arena?


Well you can expect both teams to come out playing hard, and hopefully we can keep them off this glass this game even though they added a 7'0 under the basket.

What will be the key to winning the game?



We would have to handle their defensive pressure, limit our turnovers, and keep them off the glass.

What is your impression of the MBC guard Radenko Pilcevic and Giorgi Gamqrelidze?


Both guards are good, they like to control the game, pressure the ball, and do whatever it takes for their team to win.

What have you improved in your game the most this season?


I think my mid-range game has improved a lot throughout the season.

What do you follow now that the NCAA tournament is over?

Watching a lot of NBA games as the playoffs are about to start.
Thanks Dre for the chat.


*****************************************************
  GREECE   


Marcus Haislip split ways with Panathinaikos - by Eurobasket News
Marcus Haislip (207-F-80, college: Tennessee) and Panathinaikos decided to part ways. The 29-year-old forward has joined the Greek powerhouse in January. He appeared in five Euroleague and eight A1 games. Haislip averaged 6.0 points and 3.2 rebounds in Europe. In A1 league his stats read 11.0 points, 5.0 boards and 1.0 block per appearance. Marcus Haislip started the season in the NBA. The forward tallied 2.5 points and 1.0 board per game for the San Antonio Spurs.


Standings - A2
A2 Standings
 1. Ikaros Esperos 20-4 
 2. Iraklis 19-5 
 3. Pagrati 16-8 
 4. Olimpiada P. 15-9 
 5. Arkadikos 14-10 
 6. KAOD 13-11 
 7. Xanthi 12-12 
 8. AGOR 12-12 
 9. Ikaroi Serron 10-14 
 10. Amyntas 10-14 
 11. Near East 10-14 
 12. Peramatos 10-14 
 13. Dafni 10-14 
 14. Ermis Lagk. 8-16 
 15. OFI 7-17 
 16. Egaleo 6-18 


*****************************************************
  GUATEMALA   


Standings
LPB Standings
 1. USAC 6-0 
 2. Lanco B.C. 4-1 
 3. D-Team 4-1 
 4. Compusys 2-3 
 5. URL 2-4 
 6. Australian Milk 1-5 
 7. Le Mans 0-5 


Universidad Rafael Landivar take a win - by Gianni Pascucci
In another game of the Liga Profesional de Baloncesto, URL defeated Le Mans, 98-80, improving the record to 2-4. Fernando Fernandez scored 31 points to lead URL, with an interesting 69% in 3pts shooting. Also, Fernadez grabbed 11 rebs abd dished 3 assits to teammates. Claudio Solis added 8 assits he too, the best in Le Mans was Andres Barrios (190-G/F-81), with 30.

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


Stats Leaders - Eredivisie
Points Per Game
 Danny GIBSON
  ZZ Leiden
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Gibson, ZZ Leiden18.9 
 2. Palmer, Upstairs.18.0 
 3. Thomas, M.Magix17.2 
 4. Boxley, ZZ Leiden17.1 
 5. Monroe, DeFriesl.16.6 
 6. Haryasz, GasTerra.16.3 
 7. Calhoun, EclipseJet15.8 
 8. Hendley, Landstede15.8 
 9. Sanders, EclipseJet14.9 
 10. LeMelle, ZZ Leiden14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Patrick HILLIMAN
  Rotterdam
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Hilliman, Rotterdam10.2 
 2. Palmer, Upstairs.9.3 
 3. Haryasz, GasTerra.9.0 
 4. McGhee, ZZ Leiden8.5 
 5. Ellis, GasTerra F.8.4 
 6. Gordon, Landstede8.1 
 7. Monroe, DeFriesl.8.0 
 8. Beasley, Eiff.Tow.7.7 
 9. Griffin, Giants7.4 
 10. de Randamie, Eclip.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  M.Magix
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 7
 1. Thomas, M.Magix7.0 
 2. Oliver, Eiff.Towers5.4 
 3. Porter, Upstairs.5.1 
 4. Bostain, GasTerra.4.5 
 5. Bauscher, GasTerra.4.4 
 6. Defares, Giants4.3 
 7. Gibson, ZZ Leiden4.2 
 8. Moore, DeFriesland4.1 
 9. Blackwood, DeFriesl.4.0 
 10. Slagter, Giants3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  M.Magix
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Thomas, M.Magix2.9 
 2. Dourisseau, GasTerra.2.6 
 3. Bauscher, GasTerra.2.6 
 4. Rodgers, EclipseJet2.6 
 5. de Randamie, Eclip.2.4 
 6. Bostain, GasTerra.2.3 
 7. Flowers, M.Magix2.3 
 8. Mason, EclipseJet2.3 
 9. Ellis, GasTerra F.2.1 
 10. Kimbrough, Giants2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 James HUGHES
  M.Magix
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hughes, M.Magix1.8 
 2. Hilliman, Rotterdam1.5 
 3. Haryasz, GasTerra.1.4 
 4. Boxley, ZZ Leiden1.2 
 5. Slor, ZZ Leiden1.1 
 6. Sanders, EclipseJet0.9 
 7. Richardson, Eiff.Tow.0.9 
 8. Porter, Upstairs.0.9 
 9. Kuijper, ZZ Leiden0.8 
 10. Williams, Landstede0.7 


Standings - Eredivisie
Eredivisie Standings
 1. GasTerra F. 32-3 
 2. Eiff.Towers 23-12 
 3. Giants 23-12 
 4. ZZ Leiden 22-13 
 5. M.Magix 22-13 
 6. DeFriesland 18-17 
 7. EclipseJet 14-21 
 8. Upstairs Weert 12-23 
 9. Landstede 5-30 
 10. Rotterdam 4-31 


*****************************************************
  IBL   


Slam sign center Bryson McKenzie - by Eurobasket News
The Bellingham Slam have announced the signing of all-star center Bryson McKenzie (6'11''-C-83, college: N.Illinois), one of the International Basketball League's premier big men, today. Making the announcement was Slam general manager Robert Hofstetter.

McKenzie, a 6-foot-11 native of Gary, Indiana, just completed a full season in the NBA Development League with the Idaho Stampede. In 50 games with the Stampede, McKenzie averaged 4.6 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game while averaging under 14 minutes played each game.

McKenzie's season in the D-League was his fourth in the top-tier minor league, after spending parts of three seasons with the Anaheim Arsenal from 2006 to 2009. He has also participated in the NBA's Summer League with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2007 and with the Dallas Mavericks in 2009.

Last spring, McKenzie starred with the IBL's Vancouver Volcanoes, averaging 17.5 points and 14.5 rebounds per game, both team highs. In two games against Bellinghamin 2009, he combined for 33 points and 27 rebounds. For his efforts, McKenzie was named an IBL all-star at the conclusion of the season.

In addition to his playing experience in the United States, McKenzie has spent time playing overseas in Chile, Germanyand China.

Collegiately, McKenzie played four seasons at NorthernIllinoisUniversity, where he averaged 2.6 points and 1.6 rebounds as a senior in 2005-06.

The Slam should have one of the IBL's most formidable frontcourts both offensively and defensively this season with the combined efforts of McKenzie and Ike Ohanson, who scored 34 points and pulled down nine rebounds in last Friday's opening night win over Tacoma.

In order to make room on the roster for McKenzie, the Slam have released center Ra'Sean Dickey. In one game, Dickey scored five points and collected four rebounds.

McKenzie has already arrived in Bellinghamand will be in uniform for the Slam's next home game against the Olympia Reign on Saturday. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.at Whatcom Pavilion.
Courtesy of IBL and Bellingham Slam

*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


Stats Leaders (Men)
Points Per Game
 Cedric ISOM
  Tindastoll
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 26.4
 1. Isom, Tindastoll26.4 
 2. Dabney, Hamar25.4 
 3. Valdimarsson, Ham.25.0 
 4. Shouse, Stjarnan23.8 
 5. Smith, Fjolnir23.6 
 6. Caird, FSU21.8 
 7. Vilbergsson, Grind.20.7 
 8. Zdravevski, Stjar.20.4 
 9. Burns, Keflavik20.4 
 10. Lewis, KR20.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Hlynur BAERINGSSON
  Snaefell
  (200-F-82)
  Avg: 14
 1. Baeringsson, Snaefell14.0 
 2. Smith, Fjolnir12.0 
 3. Ermolinskij, KR11.6 
 4. Pantelic, Stjarnan10.8 
 5. Caldwell, Breidablik10.0 
 6. Visockis, Tindastoll9.9 
 7. Stefansson, UMFN9.4 
 8. Zimnickas, FSU8.4 
 9. Thorsteinsso., Kefla.8.4 
 10. Caird, FSU8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Pavel ERMOLINSKIJ
  KR
  (202-G/F-87)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Ermolinskij, KR8.8 
 2. Isom, Tindastoll8.2 
 3. Burton, Snaefell7.7 
 4. Steinarsson, Fjolnir7.6 
 5. Jonsson, Grindavik7.3 
 6. Shouse, Stjarnan6.0 
 7. Dabney, Hamar5.5 
 8. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.5.4 
 9. Inge, KR5.2 
 10. Bradford, UMFN4.8 
Steals Per Game
 Semaj INGE
  KR
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Inge, KR3.4 
 2. Isom, Tindastoll2.9 
 3. Dabney, Hamar2.7 
 4. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.2.5 
 5. Birmingham, Grindavik2.2 
 6. Bradford, UMFN2.2 
 7. Shouse, Stjarnan2.1 
 8. Hafsteinsson, Kefla.2.1 
 9. Ermolinskij, KR2.0 
 10. Baeringsson, Snaefell2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Christopher SMITH
  Fjolnir
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Smith, Fjolnir3.1 
 2. Pantelic, Stjarnan2.9 
 3. Nathanaelsso., Ham.1.7 
 4. Stefansson, UMFN1.4 
 5. Baeringsson, Snaefell1.4 
 6. Caldwell, Breidablik1.3 
 7. Inge, KR1.3 
 8. Thorsteinsso., Kefla.1.2 
 9. Magnusson, KR1.0 
 10. Igbavboa, Keflavik1.0 


Snaefell to meet Keflavik in the finals - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Snaefell will meet Keflavik in play-offs final. Snaefell made it to the finals even they never had home court advance. team was number 6 after regular season and beat Grindavik ( 3 place) in first round 2-0.
Then Snaefell faced last years Champion KR and regular season winner 2010 and knock them out 3-2 and won all away games. So next up for them is Keflavik who were in second place in regular season.
The game last night KR-Snaefell was in from of packed gym, live on TV. Sold out 1 hour before game started.
KR started better but only for few minutes then Snaefell took the control of the game. Leading at halftime 53-42 and after third quarter leading by 20 points.
KR came very agressive in fourth quarter and cut the lead down to one point but that was it. Snaefell won 93-83.
Big performance from Sigurdur Thorvaldsson (201-F-80) 28 pts & 9 rebs. Hlynur Baeringsson 15 + 9 rebs. Martins Berkis 16 pts . Jon Olafur Jonsson 12.
For KR Morgan Lewis 17. Brynjar Bjornsson 15. Skarphedinn Ingason 15. Pavel Ermolinskij 14

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


Israeli Premier L. round 21 best performance: Marco Killingsworth - by Eurobasket News
American forward Marco Killingsworth (203-F-82), agency: Bell Management) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Elitzur Maccabi Netanya, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
The 28-year old player had a double-double of 27 points and 11 rebounds, while his team edged out Bnei Hasharon (#8, 8-13) 91-90. Netanya maintains the 5th position in Israeli Premier L.. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Netanya will need more victories to improve their 13-8 record. Killingsworth turned to be Netanya's top player in his first season with the team. Marco Killingsworth averages this season 18.9ppg and 8.1rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was another Elitzur Maccabi Netanya's star - 28-year old American Tony Washam (198-F/G-82), agency: Gross Zeev ISA). Washam had a very good evening with a double-double of 20 points and 13 rebounds. It was enough for Netanya to edge the lower-ranked Bnei Hasharon (#8, 8-13) 91-90. Netanya's 5th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 13-8 record is not bad and everything may still change. Washam is a newcomer at Netanya, but is already the team's top player. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.5ppg (#6). He also registered 5.5 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Elitzur Maccabi Netanya's star - American guard Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83), agency: SportsTalent). Pinnock scored 26 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was another key player of Netanya, helping his team with a 91-90 win against the lower-ranked Bnei Hasharon (#8, 8-13). Netanya needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 8 lost games. He has a great season in Israel. After 21 games, Pinnock made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.3ppg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Anthony Tucker (198-F-85) of Bnei Hasharon - 22 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Ori Ichaki (195-G-81) of Bnei Hasharon - 28 points, 1 rebound and 1 assist
6. Steven Smith (203-F-83) of Ironi Nahariya - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
7. John Thomas (205-F/C-75) of Hapoel Holon - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Sam Clancy (201-F-80) of Bnei Hasharon - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Titus Ivory (193-G-79) of Hapoel Holon - 13 points, 10 rebounds and 1 assist
10. Shmuel Brener (188-G-81) of Netanya - 8 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists

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


Virtus Bologna and Alex Righetti part ways - by Eurobasket News
Virtus Bologna and Alex Righetti (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances) parted ways today. The experienced forward appeared just three times this season in Serie A. Last season, he helped the team win EuroChallenge title with 4.1 ppg and 1.7 rpg in 16 games. In Seire A, Righetti added 6.2 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 33 appearances.
Alex Righetti was a member of Team Italy from 1998-2005. He helped Italy to win the Bronze medal on EuroBasket 2003. Righetti started basketball career with Rimini and later player for Roma and Air Avelino. He joined La Fortezza Bologna last season.


Standings - SerieA
SerieA Standings
 1. Montepaschi 22-1 
 2. NGC Cantu 15-9 
 3. Armani MI 14-9 
 4. Pepsi Caserta 14-9 
 5. Sigma Coat. 14-9 
 6. CS Bologna 14-9 
 7. Lottomatica 13-11 
 8. Air AV 11-12 
 9. Benetton TV 10-13 
 10. Cimberio VA 9-14 
 11. Angelico BI 9-15 
 12. Banca Tercas 9-15 
 13. Scavolini PS 8-16 
 14. Vanoli CR 7-16 
 15. Carife FE 6-17 


*****************************************************
  KUWAIT   


The Semifinals of the Cup are set - by Eurobasket News
Al-Qadsia, Al-Arabi, Kazma and Al-Sahel advanced to the Semifinals of the Cup and will play on April 18th. Kuwaiti Federation Basketball Cup 2010 first saw 12 teams in Group A and B as two teams advanced from each group to the next stage. Al-Qadsia won Group A with 5-0 record, while Al-Sahel was the second team to advance from the group with 4-1 record. Kazma won Group B with 5-0 record, while Al-Arabi was second with 4-1 record. On April 18th Al-Qadsia will face Al-Arabi, while Kazma will play against Al-Sahel.

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


Of course you always hear the bad things that happen to players every season - by Mike Kearse
Playing basketball overseas for me has truly been a blessing. I have been out of college for 3 years now and i have played in Japan, Denmark, and Lebanon. Being paid to play the game I love as well as seeing different parts of the world is great! I didn't know what to expect by coming overseas to play basketball. Of course you always hear the bad things that happen to players every season. Stories about players are not getting paid at all or late, players being put into run down hotels for weeks at a time after being promised a nice apartment, and constant player changes. I mean to be real, these are some of the things that players overseas go through, but the overall experience and opportunity is always good. Lets get to how basketball is overseas. A lot of people always ask me if the actual game plays is different overseas compared to the states. Yea, in most cases its a lot different. In the states everyone plays over the rim. Everyone is either super athletic or strong as an ox making the game a more fast past run and gun or one on one styled game. Playing overseas is different, because the game is slowed down a little more and its more team oriented. Most players overseas are very skilled, not always so strong or athletic but they know and understand how the game is supposed to be played. Fundamentals are the key in overseas basketball. To me playing basketball overseas is more like playing in college than it would be playing in the NBA because its more about team play. The atmosphere at an overseas basketball game is one of the best things about playing overseas. The fans really do make the games interesting. I thought that college fans were crazy and did anything to support their team, well overseas the intensity is so much higher. It could only be 500 people in the gym and it sounds like over 10,000 screaming fans. There are always LOUD drums and chants the entire game, wish I could tell you what they are chanting lol! Another thing that's different about the atmosphere at the games overseas is the security. When I played in Lebanon there were soldiers at every game with guns and shields in case of a riot. The fans get into so much that it might just go down after the game is finished. For the most part, my experience playing basketball overseas has been a good one. Although, there are some things that you have to deal with at times. Understanding different cultures and languages are the main issues that I have had to adjust to. Luckily, every country that I have played in besides Japan, everyone can speak English. Usually on every team you have that one teammate that can speak proper English really well and will help you out with anything you need. All my hoopers know what I'm talking about. I just finished the playoffs with my team Kahraba Zouk in the Lebanese league. Unfortunately we wont be making it out of the final 6 but we played hard and fought every game. All my teammates came out and gave it all they had every game and that's all I could ask for. Not sure what my next step is but I know that I will be joining the UBA playoffs this summer with the Morrow Disciples. You can catch us in the Southern Roundball Classic putting on a show. Well its about time for me to get up out of here. I am the champ in NBA 2k10 on PS3 and the next victim is calling me, lol!!! Thanks for reading my blog!! Be blessed and I will be back with more on life of a ball player overseas.
Blog is maintained by Mychal Kearse (194-G/F-83, college: Mt.St.Mary's)

*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG   


Amicale trips Sparta on the road! Birenbaum scores 27 for Amicale!! - by Alex Meyers
Saturday, April 10, 2010

Sparta 59 - Amicale 60

Bertrange, Luxembourg
The team who wins the war on the boards usually wins the match. This was not the case last Saturday evening in Bertange as Amicale held on to win a huge road game against an up and down Sparta by one point. Sparta tore down 52 rebounds compared to Amicale's 23. Somehow, Amicale managed to defend well enough for four quarters and held Sparta to a season low 59. Sparta went 0/16 from the three point line and committed 17 costly turnovers allowing Amicale to steal the narrow victory. Larrie Smith (197-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech) scored 28 points and took 13 rebounds. Phil Grant (202-G/F-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Iona) added 16 points and 13 rebounds. Arpad Buzasi blocked 4 shots and took 10 rebounds also for sparta. Amicale's secret weapon was Raul Birenbaum who killed Sparta with 27 points. Travis DePree (199-F/C-83, college: Albion) scored 11 points and took 10 rebounds. Christopher Jones added 11 points, 4 steals and 3 assists. Bench scoring was the difference. Amicale's non-starters produced 38 points compared to Sparta's 2.

Amicale travels to Contern on Sunday, April 25th. Sparta will play T71 in the Cup Final Saturday, April 17th at 'The Coque' and again in Dudelange on Sunday, April 25th. Sparta has not won the Cup of Luxembourg since 1997. T71 is the defending Cup Champion.

Sparta: 26 field goals, 0 three pointers, 7 for 11 free throws, 52 rebounds, 12 fouls and 17 turnovers
Smith 28, Grant 16, Arbaut 7, Hublart 2, Buzasi 4, also Wolzfeld 0, Wagner 2 and Engel 0
Amicale: 25 field goals, 6 three pointers, 4 for 8 free throws, 23 rebounds, 16 fouls and 10 turnovers
DePree 11, Schartz 4, Haan o, Ney 0, Scholtes 7, also Birenbaum 27, Jones 11, Rausch 0 and Gillardin 0
Technical foul: 10' Coach Doug Marty (SPA); Unsportsmanlike foul: 12' Hublart (SPA)
Score by quarters: 1st Q 11-14, Halftime 28-24, 3rd Q 48-42, Final 59-60
540 Spectators

Etzella's defense stops T71! DelGado and Etzella keep DBBL lead! T71-Sparta in Cup Final Saturday, April 17 8pm!! - by Alex Meyers
Saturday, April 10, 2010

T 71 60 - Etzella 78

Dudelange, Luxembourg
Solid defense was the key to Etzella's 17 point victory last Saturday night in Dudelange. With the win, Nelson DelGado and Company took a commanding DBBL lead with three games to go and look like the favorite to win the Championship of the DBBL. Nelson was on fire hitting 28 points to lead all scorers. He got a little help from Dustin Scott (203-F/C-85, college: Charleston) (9 rebounds) with 18 points and his cousin Jairo DelGado and his 16 points. Other than the 2nd quarter where T71 bounced back in the game, Etzella had control of the match. Etzella even led by as much as 22 late in 4th period. With the victory, Etzella moved ahead of T71 by 1.5 points in the standings and improved their record to an impressive 21-4 overall. T71 had three players in double figures. Tom Schumacher 17, Martin Rajniak 16 and Denell Stephens (192-G-86, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Slippery Rock) 14. T71 struggled from the charity stripe hitting only 5 of 17 for 30%. Top scorer Frank Muller could not play because of an ankle injury. Andre Abreu replaced him in the starting lineup and was held scoreless. Bob Kieffer was also on the sideline with a reoccurring leg injury. T71, the defending Cup Champion will face Sparta in 'The Coque' on Saturday, April 17th at 8pm. Sparta has not won the Cup of Luxembourg since 1997. Coach Jan Enjebo of T71 has won two cups in two attempts. 2006 with Etzella and last season with T71. With Doug Marty at the helm and a full healthy cast of players, Sparta has a good chance. If all of T71's players are healthy enough to perform, this should be a very interesting matchup.

T 71: 25 field goals, 5 three pointers, 5 for 17 free throws, 25 rebounds, 18 fouls and 21 turnovers
Rajniak 16, T. Schumacher 17, Ruffato 5, Abreu 0, Stephens 14, also Bemtgen 2, Hoffmann 0, Laures 2, Schmit 0, B. Schumacher 0 and Steinmetz 0
Etzella: 32 field goals, 7 three pointers, 7 for 15 free throws, 29 rebounds, 20 fouls and 13 turnovers
N. DelGado 28, J. DelGado 16, Scott 18, Albaladejo 7, Hoffmann 2, also Giver 6, Benseghir 0, Ferreira 1, Ittenbach 0 and Polfer 0
Fouled out: 38' Albaladejo (ETZ); Technical foul: 29' T. Schumacher (T71)

Score by quarters: 1st Q 13-26, Halftime 30-36, 3rd Q 44-56, Final 60-78
450 Spectators


Musel Pikes handles Contern! Fletcher Walters with 28/12 for Pikes! - by Alex Meyers
Sunday, April 11, 2010

Musel Pikes 89 - Contern 78

Musel Pikes and Contern are pretty much out of the picture for a chance at the final four in the DBBL race. However, with pride on the line, Musel Pikes defeated Contern handily last weekend at home to improve their record to 10-15. Contern took an early lead and relinquished it by the end of the 1st period. The remainder of the game was controlled by
Pikes as they out-shot and out-rebounded their opponent to take a healthy halftime lead of 42-32. Contern narrowed the gap in the 3rd, but gave up 27 4th quarter points and lost by 11. Musel Pikes' Fletcher Walters (201-F-86, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Amherst) led his team with 28 points and 12 rebounds before fouling out with 2 minutes remaining. Laurent Schwartz boosted with 20 points followed by Guy Schmit with 18. Tom Schmitz added 12 rebounds and blocked 3 shots against his former club. Musel Pikes were comfortable at home hitting 12 three pointers. They also out-rebounded 41-34. Brandon Gary (202-F-83, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Hutchinson CC) (6 steals,10 rebounds) and Ken Diederich scored 24 points each for Contern. Eric Jeitz added 11. Contern shot a miserable 3 for 25 (12%) from beyond the arc. They will host Amicale on Sunday, April 25th and Musel Pikes will play at Etzella on Friday, April 23rd.

Musel Pikes: 30 field goals, 12 three pointers, 17for 26 free throws, 41 rebounds, 17 fouls and 21 turnovers
Walters 28, G. Schmit 18, Schwartz 20, Tuffel 2, Kox 7, also Schmitz 6, C. Dentzer 4, R. Dentzer 0, Steffen 4 and Haas 0
Contern: 28 field goals, 3 three pointers, 19 for 24 free throws, 34 rebounds, 20 fouls and 11 turnovers
Gary 24, Diederich 24, Jeitz 11, Becker 4, Bissener 2, also Braun 2, Schroeder 9 and Kauffmann 2
Fouled out: 38' Walters (MP); Technical foul: 36' Jeitz (Con)

Score by quarters: 1st Q 22-18, Halftime 42-32, 3rd Q 62-51, Final 89-78
120 Spectators

Amicale trips Sparta on the road! Birenbaum scores 27 for Amicale!! - by Alex Meyers
Saturday, April 10, 2010

Sparta 59 - Amicale 60

Bertrange, Luxembourg
The team who wins the war on the boards usually wins the match. This was not the case last Saturday evening in Bertange
as Amicale held on to win a huge road game against an up and down Sparta by one point. Sparta tore down 52 rebounds
compared to Amicale's 23. Somehow, Amicale managed to defend well enough for four quarters and held Sparta to a season low 59.
Sparta went 0/16 from the three point line and committed 17 costly turnovers allowing Amicale to steal the narrow victory.
Larrie Smith scored 28 points and took 13 rebounds. Phil Grant added 16 points and 13 rebounds. Arpad Buzasi blocked 4 shots
and took 10 rebounds also for sparta. Amicale's secret weapon was Raul Birenbaum who killed Sparta with 27 points. Travis De
Pree scored 11 points and took 10 rebounds. Christopher Jones added 11 points, 4 steals and 3 assists. Bench scoring was the difference.
Amicale's non-starters produced 38 points compared to Sparta's 2.

Amicale travels to Contern on Sunday, April 25th. Sparta will play T71 in the Cup Final Saturday, April 17th at 'The Coque' and again in
Dudelange on Sunday, April 25th. Sparta has not won the Cup of Luxembourg since 1997. T71 is the defending Cup Champion.

Sparta: 26 field goals, 0 three pointers, 7 for 11 free throws, 52 rebounds, 12 fouls and 17 turnovers
Smith 28, Grant 16, Arbaut 7, Hublart 2, Buzasi 4, also Wolzfeld 0, Wagner 2 and Engel 0
Amicale: 25 field goals, 6 three pointers, 4 for 8 free throws, 23 rebounds, 16 fouls and 10 turnovers
DePree 11, Schartz 4, Haan o, Ney 0, Scholtes 7, also Birenbaum 27, Jones 11, Rausch 0 and Gillardin 0

Score by quarters: 1st Q 11-14, Halftime 28-24, 3rd Q 48-42, Final 59-60
540 Spectators

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


Caballeros de Culiacan sign Robert Hornsby - by Eurobasket
Caballeros de Culiacan strengthened their roster with addition of American power forward Robert Hornsby (196-F/C, college: Troy) (196-F/C, college: Troy). Hornsby played most recently at Huracanes de Tampico (LNBP). In the last game he lead Caballeros to an easy victory over Bomberos 95-73. Hornsby played 27 games, scored 22 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. He is an replacement of American swingman Louis Mccullough (198-G/F-82, college: Francis Marion).
By Eurobasket Data Center

Trigueros de Ciudad Obregon sign Fred Hooks - by Eurobasket
Trigueros de Ciudad Obregon strengthened their roster with addition of 28-year old American forward Fred Hooks (198-F-82, college: Humboldt St.). Hooks played most recently at Alma Juniors Esperanza (Argentina). Hooks is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Iceland, Spain and Venezuela. In the last game he played in 37 minutes, scored 19 points, got 6 rebounds and 4 assists. He replaced another American forward Jamal Johnson, who was released.
By Eurobasket Data Center

Mineros de Cananea sign Davin White - by Eurobasket
Mineros de Cananea added to their roster 29-year old American guard Davin White (186-G-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) (186-G-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge). White played most recently at Radnicki Kragujevac (Serbia). White is a very experienced player. In the last game (his team was edged by Coras 93-92) he played 38 games scoring 18 points, getting 3 rebounds and 7 assists. He makes a perfect duo of two guards with his countryman Franco Harris (183-G-83, college: Boise St.). White replaced another American - forward Derek Thomas (193-F-84, college: Appalachian St.).
By Eurobasket Data Center

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Lorenzo WADE
  Hermosillo
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 39
 1. Wade, Hermosillo39.0 
 2. Cook, Cananea33.0 
 3. Thomas, Cananea29.0 
 4. Gonzalez, Coras28.0 
 5. Lawrence, Los M.27.0 
 6. Valenzuela, Obregon26.5 
 7. Brown, Coras26.5 
 8. Mccullough, Culiacan26.0 
 9. Brown, Mazatlan25.5 
 10. Harris, Cananea25.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Serge ANGOUNOU
  Guasave
  (202-F-83)
  Avg: 14
 1. Angounou, Guasave14.0 
 2. Smith, Mazatlan11.0 
 3. Ibarra, Los Mochis10.5 
 4. Strobbe, Nogales10.5 
 5. Brown, Mazatlan10.5 
 6. Habel, Guaymas10.0 
 7. Davis, Tijuana10.0 
 8. Berhoefer, Hermosillo9.3 
 9. Mccullough, Culiacan9.0 
 10. Jordan, Mazatlan8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Rommel MARENTES
  Guaymas
  (179-G-84)
  Avg: 8
 1. Marentes, Guaymas8.0 
 2. White, Cananea7.0 
 3. Navarro, Obregon6.5 
 4. Harris, Cananea6.5 
 5. Lee, Guaymas5.0 
 6. Pulido, Culiacan5.0 
 7. Lawrence, Los M.5.0 
 8. Sullinger, Nogales4.5 
 9. Malpica, Tijuana4.0 
 10. Brown, Coras4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Louis MCCULLOUGH
  Culiacan
  (198-G/F-82)
  Avg: 5
 1. Mccullough, Culiacan5.0 
 2. Harris, Cananea3.5 
 3. Pulido, Culiacan3.0 
 4. Lawrence, Los M.3.0 
 5. Lee, Guaymas3.0 
 6. Zuniga, Guasave3.0 
 7. Carrillo, Obregon2.5 
 8. West, Los Mochis2.5 
 9. Maciel, Mazatlan2.0 
 10. Gonzalez, Coras2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 James SULLINGER
  Nogales
  (196-G-82)
  Avg: 2
 1. Sullinger, Nogales2.0 
 2. Brown, Coras2.0 
 3. Llamas, Culiacan2.0 
 4. Davis, Tijuana2.0 
 5. Habel, Guaymas1.7 
 6. Salcedo, Cananea1.0 
 7. Avila, Culiacan1.0 
 8. Wade, Hermosillo1.0 
 9. Thomas, Cananea1.0 
 10. Ibarra, Los Mochis1.0 


Standings - CIBACOPA
CIBACOPA Standings
 1. Cananea 14-5 
 2. Culiacan 12-6 
 3. Mazatlan 12-6 
 4. Los Mochis 10-8 
 5. Mexicali 10-8 
 6. Nogales 10-8 
 7. Guasave 9-9 
 8. Hermosillo 9-9 
 9. Guaymas 9-9 
 10. Coras 6-12 
 11. Obregon 5-13 
 12. Tijuana 3-15 


*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


Levski beats Lovcen in the Big Final, wins Balkan League title - by Eurobasket News
Lovcen - Levski 65-77
For another year the Eurohold Balkan league trophy will stay in Bulgaria. After Rilski Sportist won the first edition of the tournament in 2009 today another Bulgarian team went to the top. The host of Final Four Levski defeated Lovcen 65-77 and won the trophy in front of its home fans. This is the second tournament won by the team this season after the Cup of Bulgaria one month ago. Levski played very good defense throughout the whole game and proved it was the best team in this year tournament. The team of Lovcen also deserves to be praised for its performance during the championship. The game was decided at the start of the second half. After the first 20 minutes Levski led 39-35 and after an 8-0 run to start the third quarter built a big lead. It was protected until the end of the quarter and with 7 straight points to start the last one the score went up to 67-46. From then on there was no comeback for Lovcen and Levski and its fans started celebrating. Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Mississippi) was the best player on the court with with his 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. 14 points apiece added Donald Cole (204-C-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: Sam Houston St.) and Stefan Georgiev, while his brother Zlatin had 10. For the visitors Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91) had another double double - 23 points and 11 rebounds. Damjan Kandic (208-F-84) had 15 points in the first half he received some injury and played only a few minutes in the second.
*by Valentin Anguelov (Bulgarian section)


*****************************************************
  MOROCCO   


AS Sale wins the Morocco Basketball Throne Cup - by Eurobasket News
AS Sale wins the Morocco Basketball Throne Cup as the team became the winner of all the games. In the Semifinal AS Sale overcame Sport Plazza Casa 93:67, while produced 84:68 in the second game. Maghreb Fez advanced to the Final as they won over Ittihad Tanger 76:55 in the second game despite the loss in the first game 63:70. In the Final AS Sale and Maghreb Fez showed great game and only 1 point difference allowed AS Sale to triumph in the country. Hall of Complexe Sportif Moulay Abdallah greeted the winners on April 10th.

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 30.1
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.30.1 
 2. James, Clevelan.29.7 
 3. Anthony, Denver N.28.2 
 4. Bryant, LA Lakers27.0 
 5. Wade, Miami Heat26.6 
 6. Ellis, Golde S.25.5 
 7. Nowitzki, Dallas M.25.0 
 8. Granger, Indiana P.24.1 
 9. Bosh, Toronto R.24.0 
 10. Stoudemire, Phoeni.23.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 13.2
 1. Howard, Orlando M.13.2 
 2. Camby, LA Clippers12.2 
 3. Lee, New York K.11.7 
 4. Randolph, Memph.11.7 
 5. Gasol, LA Lakers11.2 
 6. Boozer, Utah Jazz11.2 
 7. Noah, Chicago B.11.0 
 8. Love, Minnesota T.11.0 
 9. Bosh, Toronto R.10.8 
 10. Haywood, Washingt.10.3 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 11
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.0 
 2. Paul, N.Orleans H.10.7 
 3. Williams, Utah Jazz10.5 
 4. Rondo, Boston C.9.8 
 5. Kidd, Dallas M.9.1 
 6. James, Clevelan.8.6 
 7. Westbrook, Oklah..8.0 
 8. Davis, LA Clippers8.0 
 9. Arenas, Washingt.7.2 
 10. Harris, New J.6.6 
Steals Per Game
 Monta ELLIS
  Golde State W.
  (192-G-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ellis, Golde S.2.3 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.2.3 
 3. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.1 
 4. Curry, Golde S.1.9 
 5. Curry, Golde S.1.9 
 6. Wade, Miami Heat1.8 
 7. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 8. Ariza, Houston R.1.8 
 9. Davis, LA Clippers1.7 
 10. Iguodala, Philadel.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Howard, Orlando M.2.8 
 2. Bogut, Milwauke.2.5 
 3. Smith, Atlanta H.2.1 
 4. Haywood, Washingt.2.1 
 5. Haywood, Dallas M.2.1 
 6. Camby, LA Clippers2.0 
 7. Andersen, Denver N.1.9 
 8. McGee, Washingt.1.8 
 9. Dalembert, Philad.1.8 
 10. Lopez, New J.1.7 


Lakers coach Jackson fined for comments on Durant - by Eurobasket News
For the second time in two weeks, Lakers coach Phil Jackson has been fined $35,000 for publicly criticizing game officials, it was announced Thursday by Stu Jackson, the NBA's executive vice president of basketball operations.

Jackson was fined for comments made in reference to Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant, the third-year forward who led the league in free throw attempts with 10.3 per game this season. The Lakers tip off their first-round playoff series against Durant and the Thunder on Sunday.

'As far as the calls that he gets on the floor, I think a lot of the referees are treating him like a superstar; he gets to the line easy and often,' Jackson said on Tuesday, prior to Los Angeles' game against Sacramento.

Boston's Kevin Garnett made a similar derisive claim after the Celtics' 109-104 loss to the Thunder on March 31, saying the calls Durant was receiving made it seem like he was 'Michael [expletive] Jordan.'

Durant, informed of Jackson's comments on Wednesday, said he felt 'disrespected.'

'Because it's taking away from what I do,' Durant told The Oklahoman. 'That's part of my game, getting to the free throw line and being aggressive. If you say that I get superstar calls or I get babied by the refs, that's just taking away from how I play. That's disrespectful to me.'

Jackson was fined earlier in the month for comments after a game against San Antonio. He said the 'referees turned against us' after technical fouls were drawn by Ron Artest and Kobe Bryant. He also called out veteran official Bennett Salvatore by name and said, 'With Bennett you don't know what you're going to get.'

Courtesy of ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/news/story?id=5095536)


76ers fire coach Eddie Jordan after 1 season - by Eurobasket News
Samuel Dalembert has become numb to the coaching changes. In and out of Philadelphia they shuffle, taking with them various philosophies that were scrapped almost as soon as the 76ers learned the playbook. His next coach will be his eighth in 10 seasons with the team.

Philly's coaching carousel has become a punchline around the NBA.

'When I tell guys around the league, they laugh at me', Dalembert said.

Eddie Jordan is the latest coach fired by an organization that cant find the right mix of players or the right coach to contend for NBA championships. Jordan and his maligned Princeton offense were given all of one season to make it work.

One year in Philadelphia is like lasting through a multiyear deal with other organizations.

Since Larry Brown left in 2003, four other coaches have failed to coach more than 82 games for the organization. Jordans dismissal means a second straight offseason of a coaching search.

Unlike last season, there are no guarantees that team president and general manager Ed Stefanski will lead the process. He took all the questions at Thursdays press conference-Comcast-Spectacor chairman Ed Snider and chief operating officer Peter Luukko were absentand said he intended to be the point man for the interviews.

If he gets that chance.

Were going to evaluate the organization as a whole structurally and well go from there, Luukko said by phone.

When asked if he trusted Stefanski to hire the next coach, Luukko stood by that comment.

Jordans departure shifts all the heat to Stefanski, who has yet to make a big move with a satisfying payoff. The $80 million contract he gave to free-agent Elton Brand (notes) in 2008 was a mistake and the $80 million to keep Andre Iguodala (notes) has not paid dividends in the standings. Jordans hire was panned by fans and media from the day he arrived last May.

Stefanski said the Sixers took an unacceptable step backward in finishing 27-55 and missing the playoffs for the first time in three seasons.

What I thought would happen, did not occur, Stefanski said. The decision was not a right one. Thats why I made the choice to go in a different direction to get someone in here to get us on the right path.

Jordan is finished after a woefully underachieving season that had the Sixers sinking to the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Jordan sold his halfcourt, backdoor-cut style Princeton offense as the way to turn Philly into a contender.

Instead, players were unhappy with his system almost from the start and the Sixers struggled to put together any kind of winning streaks.

Were not starting over, Stefanski said. We took a step backward this year.

The Sixers will look for their fourth coach in three seasons. The decision to fire Jordan was made this week after a meeting with Snider, Luukko and Stefanski. Stefanski made the call and he had the backing of upper management.

Luukko and Snider could have a greater say in hiring the next coach after another one-and-done deal.

Well be as involved as we need to be, Luukko said.

Jordan was fired for the second straight season. He was let go by Washington last year and was hired in May by Stefanski, his longtime friend from their four seasons together in New Jersey.

Jordan, who could not immediately be reached for comment, has two years left on his contract and is owed $6 million.

Jordan said Wednesday night he was not concerned about his job security before the Sixers lost to the Magic 125-111 to end the season.

If you want to be judged alone on the record, then we are where we are, Jordan said. But as far as track record, as far as how the league works, as far as evaluating your personnel, maybe we need more time.

He wont get any more.

Jordans dismissal had been widely speculated for months as the players never warmed to the Princeton offense.

It didnt fit, it didnt work out, Brand said. I think with the personnel we have, the offense could have been set up for what we have instead of just bringing in a set offense in mind. It didnt really work for the pieces we have.

Marreese Speights (notes), Thaddeus Young (notes) and Lou Williams were among the promising core of young players who did not progress this season. Brand hasnt performed up to his lucrative contract, Dalembert was his usual erratic self and Iguodala continued to prove he cant carry the franchise.

The decision to bring back former franchise great Allen Iverson (notes) was a short-lived bust.

Overall, we were confused, Dalembert said. A lot of guys were confused. We didnt know what was going to happen each day.

The Sixers could undergo a roster shakeup.

We will have to make changes, no question, Stefanski said.

No one expected the Sixers to contend for the Eastern Conference title. But this kind of steep drop was a surprise.

Forget the Princeton offense, we should have been focused on defense, Dalembert said.

This move could be seen coming in January when Stefanski refused to say Jordans job was safe for the rest of the season with the team off to a 10-25 start, nor did he offer a single word of praise for his first-year coach.

We have to pull out of the hole we got into this year, Stefanski said.

Courtesy of Yahoo (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-76ers-jordanfired)


Brandon Roy ruled out for first round after surgery - by Eurobasket News
Portland Trail Blazers guard Brandon Roy (6'6''-G-84, college: Washington) will have surgery on his right knee on Friday and will miss at least the first round of the playoffs, the team announced.

Roy, who averaged 21.5 points, needs the surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee.

The three-time All-Star was injured in Portland's 91-88 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers last Sunday. He missed Portland's final two regular season games.

Roy originally said that he would try to play on the knee for the playoffs. Sixth-seeded Portland plays the third-seeded Suns in the first round starting on Sunday in Phoenix.

``This was not an easy decision to make,'' Roy said in a statement. ``But, if I'm going to be out there, I want to be contributing. If we're fortunate enough to advance in the playoffs, having the surgery now gives me the best opportunity to help our team.''

Recovery for such a procedure is typically four to six weeks.

For the Blazers, the announcement erases some of the uncertainty surrounding the playoff series with the Suns.

Roy, who had been told that he could not further injure his knee by playing on it, said earlier this week that he wouldn't return if he was a distraction or a liability.

Roy's injury is the latest to strike the Blazers, who surprised many by even making the playoffs.

Center Greg Oden and Joel Przybilla both sustained injuries that required season-ending surgery. Forward Nicolas Batum missed the first half of the season after shoulder surgery, and swingman Rudy Fernandez had midseason back troubles. Former forward Travis Outlaw, who was traded to the Clippers, sat out for a time with a foot injury.

Roy missed more that a dozen games with a sore hamstring earlier this year before the slight meniscus tear was discovered.

In all, 13 Blazers missed a combined 311 regular-season games because of injuries, second only to the Warriors this season. Only guard Andre Miller and forward Martell Webster have played in all 82 games.

The latest absence was forward LaMarcus Aldridge, who didn't play against the Warriors after spending the previous night in the hospital with a gastrointestinal virus. He is expected to be recovered by Sunday.

Portland's starting lineup was completely different in the opener than it was for the regular-season finale against Golden State. In all, the Blazers have used 16 different starting lineups.

``At the end of the day you still have to go out and play,'' Webster said. ``We're going to rally together and play the game.''

Portland finished the season 50-32, hitting the 50-win mark for the second straight season. The Blazers wound up with the sixth seed in the Western Conference.

Third-seeded Phoenix finished 54-28. The Suns have come on late, going 23-6 since the All-Star break.

The Blazers, who have gone 19-8 since the break, won the season series against the Suns 2-1.

Coach Nate McMillan gave the team a day off on Thursday after losing to the Golden State Warriors 122-116 the night before.

``This is a setback, but we've been overcoming injuries all season long,'' general manager Kevin Pritchard said. ``This is about looking long-term and doing what's best for Brandon.''

The Blazers made it to the playoffs last season and fell to the Houston Rockets four games to two. With their youth and talent, they were expected to go further this season.

Until all the injuries happened. Now they head into the playoffs as the decided underdog.

``We're not making no excuses,'' center Marcus Camby said. ``There's no excuses if you're going to win the series. So we're coming in confident.''

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


Kevin Durant crowned top scorer - by Eurobasket News
Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 31 points to finish the season as the youngest scoring champion in NBA history, and the Oklahoma City Thunder survived a sloppy second half to head into the postseason with a 114-105 victory Wednesday night against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Oklahoma City let most of a 27-point lead dwindle away before closing out its 50th win of the season. The Thunder will meet the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the playoffs.

Zach Randolph had 21 points and 11 rebounds for his 57th double-double of the season for the Grizzlies.

Durant had the scoring title all but locked up after a late-season surge that included three 40-point games in April. It became a certainty when Cleveland decided to rest reigning MVP LeBron James, the only player with even an outside shot at catching Durant.

The 21-year-old finished with an average of 30.1 points, 0.4 ahead of James, and supplanted 22-year-old Max Zaslofsky of the 1947-48 Chicago Stags as the youngest NBA scoring champ.

Courtesy of www.theolympian.com

Grizzlies, Hollins agree to 3-year extension - by Eurobasket News
Flanked by a throng of players and with team owner Michael Heisley's commitment to excellence assured, Lionel Hollins took over the Grizzlies' final media day this season by announcing that he agreed to a contract extension.

Hollins will have command of the Grizzlies for the next three seasons, which is the length of the deal that is believed to start at roughly $2 million.

The contract was achieved nearly three months after the Griz initiated negotiations in January. Hollins said the deal was completed after a conversation with Heisley early Thursday morning.

'After talking to Mr. Heisley, I feel comfortable about accepting this contract,' said Hollins, who added that he wanted a clear vision of the Grizzlies' plan to win. 'It wasn't all about money. This may not be the best contract I could have secured. But it's still the most money I've ever made. We just go forward with the assurances that Mr. Heisley does want to win. That was a concern going forward. And I'm comfortable going forward.'

Hollins sure has the support of his players.

Mike Conley, Ronnie Brewer, Rudy Gay, Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph, DeMarre Carroll, Sam Young and O.J. Mayo were among the players in the room as Hollins announced the deal. Assistant coaches Johnny Davis, Henry Bibby and Dave Joerger also attended.

Heisley said he had little doubt that Hollins would return despite the perception that negotiations had gone bad given how much time had passed.

'No. 1, I consider Lionel my friend. I admire Lionel,' Heisley said. 'He is a man of high integrity. I hope that he'll be able to mold these players into a really good team. As I've said to him today, we've got a lot of work to do. We need more talent and we're going to get on it.

'But I hope Lionel is with us for a long, long time. I can't predict the future. I do know this: You need to have an owner that has respect for the coach. And the coach has to have a good relationship with the owner. We've got those ingredients for having a long partnership together.'

Hollins was working on a 17-month deal he signed on Jan. 25, 2009, to replace Marc Iavaroni. Lack of player development and the team's overall record were cited as reasons the Griz dismissed Iavaroni.

Hollins convinced the players to buy into his philosophy and guided the Griz to a 40-42 record, a 16-win improvement over last season.

'We've laid a nice foundation and started building toward our future goals,' Hollins said. 'Ultimately, I want to be here to see it through. I would have hated to have to walk away without finishing this. It would have bothered me.

'I'm not disappointed in the season. I would like to have done better. They exceeded expectations. I didn't know where we could go. My goal is to win championships, and I believe that's my destiny as a coach.'

Hollins is expected to retain the current staff, whom he thanked for their commitment.

'Let's hope I get through these three years,' Hollins said with a chuckle. 'I'm excited to be with this organization. I respect the work ethic (the players and coaches) have developed and the bond they've developed to move toward a winning attitude. I'm looking forward to future growth with them as well.'

Courtesy of www.commercialappeal.com


Clippers relieve Kim Hughes of interim head coach duties - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Clippers today relieved Kim Hughes of his duties as interim head coach. The remaining members of the teams coaching staff will remain in their current roles at this time.

We appreciate Kims contributions during his time here especially over the last two and a half months, stated Clippers President Andy Roeser. But we also know that our responsibility is to do what is in the organizations immediate best interests for its ability to move forward. This season was an overall disappointment and certainly fell short of both our expectations and what should rightly have been anticipated by our fans. We will move deliberately and productively to regain the successful competitive position we had all hoped for when this past season began.

We think our situation is extremely attractive, both from the standpoint of the talented and popular core of players who are already under contract, as well as the salary cap flexibility we have created for this summer, Roeser continued. Los Angeles is a great city, we have total support from our ownership, our facilities are state of the art and we are blessed with a tremendous fan base.

A search for a new coach has already begun. There are no leading candidates. In order to maintain the ability to take advantage of the widest sample of available and quality coaches, there will be no stated completion timetable.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


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


Rhode Island extends basketball coach Jim Baron's contract 1 year - by Eurobasket News
Rhode Island and coach Jim Baron have agreed in principle to a one-year contract extension just weeks after he led the team to the semifinals of the National Invitation Tournament.

The extension announced Wednesday will keep Baron with the Rams through the 2013-14 season.

Athletic director Thorr Bjorn says the extension comes on the heels of the best four-year period in program history, in which the team has put together three consecutive 20-win seasons and reached the NIT three straight years. Bjorn says the next step is taking the program to the NCAA tournament.

Baron is 157-128 overall at Rhode Island since 2001, including 26-10 this past season, but the team has yet to reach the NCAAs during his tenure.
Baron says he is 'appreciative and thankful.'
Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Early resigns as Louisiana-Monroe coach - by Eurobasket News
Louisiana-Monroe head men's basketball coach Orlando Early has resigned after five seasons with the Warhawks.

Early says he's enjoyed his time at ULM and that he's accepted an assistant coaching position at South Carolina in order to be closer to family.

Athletic director Bobby Staub, who announced Early's departure on Thursday, says he appreciated Early's hard work and that he'll be missed. Staub says associate head coach Jimmy Voight was named interim head coach and that a search for Early's permanent replacement will begin now.

ULM had a 60-92 record under Early and went 33-55 in the Sun Belt Conference. In 2006-07, Early led ULM to the Sun Belt West Division title and was named Sun Belt coach of the year.
Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Charlotte's Major hires assistants Odom, Vandross - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte coach Alan Major has begun filling out his first staff with the hiring of assistants Ryan Odom and Orlando Vandross.

Major also announced Thursday that he is retaining director of basketball operations Rob Perron.

Odom leaves Virginia Tech, where he was on coach Seth Greenberg's staff for seven seasons. Odom is the son of former Wake Forest and South Carolina coach Dave Odom. Ryan Odom 's brother, Lane, is a former Charlotte assistant.

Vandross has spent the past 13 seasons as an assistant at Boston University, and will help with the 49ers' recruiting efforts in the Northeast. Major and Vandross have a friendship spanning 12 years.

A former Ohio State assistant, Major was introduced this week to replace the fired Bobby Lutz.
Courtesy of www.stamfordadvocate.com

Baylor's Dunn returning for his senior season - by Eurobasket News
Baylor leading scorer LaceDarius Dunn (6'4''-G-87) is returning for his senior season with the Bears.

Dunn made his announcement Thursday, ending any speculation that the 6-foot-4 guard would bypass his final year and declare for the NBA draft like 6-foot-10 power forward Ekpe Udoh did two days earlier.

I knew everybody was holding their breath wondering what I was going to do, Dunn said. I think I made the right decision.

The Bears (28-8) set a school record for victories this season and got within one win of making their first NCAA Final Four appearance in 60 years. Dunn was a second-time All-Big 12 pick while averaging 19.6 points and 4.8 rebounds and setting school records for points (704), 3-pointers (116) and free throw shooting percentage (85.7 on 126 of 147 free throws).

I knew that I wanted to be back here with this team and this coaching staff. This is part of the Baylor tradition. We got close this year so one of my goals is to come back next year and go further, Dunn said. I also wanted to come back and get my degree. If I can do both of those, that would be great.

In 106 games over three seasons for Baylor, Dunn has averaged 16.4 points and already has the school record with 299 career 3-pointers, 91 shy of the Big 12 record.

He has improved every year that he has been here. This is a tremendous lift for our team. I know that several people have us picked in the top 10 (next season), but we dont put much stock in predictions, coach Scott Drew said. I do know that we have a better chance to reach our full potential with a guy like LaceDarius Dunn.

With the early departure of Udoh, who is projected to be a potential lottery pick in the June draft, the Bears are losing three starters from the team that lost to eventual national champion Duke in the South Regional final. Point guard Tweety Carter, the second-leading scorer at 15 points a game, and 7-foot center Josh Lomers were both seniors.

Dunn will enter his senior season fourth in school history with 1,739 career points. He needs 451 points to surpass Terry Teagle as Baylors career scoring leader, and 518 to pass Texas Techs Andre Emmett for the Big 12 record.

Courtesy of www.chron.com


Key contributor Turner transferring from Washington - by Eurobasket News
Washington reserve guard Elston Turner (6'4''-G) is transferring after becoming a key contributor during the Huskies' NCAA tournament run.

Coach Lorenzo Romar made the announcement Thursday in a release posted on the school's athletic Web site. Romar said Turner approached him with the decision earlier this week.

'Elston Turner has done a nice job for us. We will miss him but we certainly wish him well and support him in whatever he decides to do,' Romar said in a statement.

Turner was a major factor in the Huskies' late-season run that saw them win the Pac-10 tournament title and reach the round of 16 in the NCAA tournament. Turner hit key baskets late in the Pac-10 title game win over California. He then keyed a second-half rally with 14 points in the Huskies' first-round NCAA upset of Marquette and scored 10 points in a second-round win over New Mexico.

The sophomore from Missouri City, Texas, averaged 4.6 points in 66 career games at Washington. He was also the Huskies' best perimeter shooter, hitting 38 percent of his 3-point attempts. His 41 3-pointers were second on the team this season.

Turner's decision was announced a day after the Huskies received a national letter of intent from 7-foot center Aziz N'Diaye. The 21-year-old native of Dakar, Senegal, played two years ago at the College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls, Idaho, but missed all of last season with a knee injury. He will be a sophomore when he arrives at Washington.

'When you play in the NCAA Tournament and continue to advance, the one thing you see more and more of is size,' Romar said. 'Aziz is a seven-footer and definitely fills a need there. At the same time, he is very athletic and can get up-and-down the court.'

N'Diaye is the second player to sign with the Huskies for next season. Washington signed forward Desmond Simmons during the fall signing period. Turner's departure would open up one more scholarship for next season.
Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


CSU names Robert Moore as head basketball Coach - by UBA media
The UBA would like to extend a congratulations to Coach Robert Moore for being named Head coach of Columbus St..

Columbus St. Athletic Director Jay Sparks introduced Robert Moore as the schools sixth mens basketball coach on Friday afternoon. The announcement came at a press conference at the Frank G. Lumpkin Jr. Center on the CSU campus.

Moore replaces Doug Branson, who stepped down after four seasons in charge of the program. Branson posted a 50-62 mark in those four seasons.
With all the criteria, the responsibilities and the challenges that come with this job, no one fits the job that decribe him better than Robert Moore , said Sparks. Robert has all the resources to be successful here at Columbus State and we believe he will be outstanding for a long time to come.

Moore comes to Columbus State with 18 years of coaching experience - 10 of those in a head coaching role. He most recently has been head boys basketball coach at Brookstone School in Columbus for the last five years. Prior to his stint at Brookstone, Moore was head coach at Tift County High School in Tifton, Georgia. While at Tift County, Moore was named Georgia Sportswriters Association 5A Boys Coach of the Year after he led his team to the state championship game that season. He accumulated a record of 47-12 and won back-to-back region titles at the school.

Prior to Tift County, Moore served two seasons as head coach at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and set a school record for wins in a season with 21 in 2002. That record was the best mens basketball record at the school since 1982. Moore served as an assistant coach to Herbert Greene at Columbus State from 1994-2000 and was a part of two NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen appearances, one Peach Belt Conference championship, and three PBC Tournament championships. During that span, CSU also appeared in the PBC Tournament title game five times and made three overall NCAA postseason appearances.

For me, this is a dream come true, said Moore. I have made several stops in my coaching career, but this is the one place I can call home. I am glad to be back.
I am committed to getting our students and the community involved in our program. To do that, you first have to win, but then you also have to be visible on campus and in the community. I am excited to get started and go out and get the best players we can for our program, he added.

Moore has also been selected to coach the Austin Knights in the UBA Playoff Classic.
It was an honor for the UBA to have such a great coach in our event, said UBA Commissioner J.D. Barnes. Its an honor for me as a college coach to be selected to coach so many great professional players.


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  NEW ZEALAND   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Richard JETER
  Manawatu
  (198-G/F-80)
  Avg: 24.8
 1. Jeter, Manawatu24.8 
 2. Devendorf, Waikato24.3 
 3. Webster, Harbour .24.0 
 4. Tisby, Otago23.5 
 5. Rose, Southland S.22.6 
 6. Leasure, Taranaki22.3 
 7. Jones, Nelson20.6 
 8. Amaya, Otago20.4 
 9. Hudson, Wellington20.3 
 10. Winitana, Cougars19.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Waikato
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 13.1
 1. Pledger, Waikato13.1 
 2. Rickert, Harbour .12.0 
 3. Terrell, Bay Hawks10.4 
 4. Tisby, Otago10.3 
 5. Boucher, Harbour .9.8 
 6. Johnson, Taranaki8.4 
 7. Vukona, Nelson7.8 
 8. Maxey, Wellington7.6 
 9. Abercrombie, Waika.7.6 
 10. Horvath, Wellington7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Dillon BOUCHER
  Harbour Heat
  (196-F-75)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Boucher, Harbour .6.2 
 2. Kench, Cougars4.9 
 3. Tait, Wellington4.4 
 4. Devendorf, Waikato4.1 
 5. Jones, Nelson3.7 
 6. Bartlett, Bay H.3.4 
 7. Amaya, Otago3.4 
 8. Davey, Taranaki3.1 
 9. Daly, Cougars3.1 
 10. Webster, Harbour .3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Corey WEBSTER
  Harbour Heat
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Webster, Harbour .4.5 
 2. Te Huna, Manawatu3.2 
 3. Rougeau, Southlan.3.1 
 4. Boucher, Harbour .2.8 
 5. Kench, Cougars2.8 
 6. Devendorf, Waikato2.7 
 7. Rose, Southland S.2.6 
 8. Tait, Wellington2.6 
 9. Leasure, Taranaki2.3 
 10. Jones, Nelson2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Thomas ABERCROMBIE
  Waikato
  (198-G/F-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Abercrombie, Waika.2.3 
 2. Pledger, Waikato1.9 
 3. Harrison, Nelson1.7 
 4. Rougeau, Southlan.1.6 
 5. Terrell, Bay Hawks1.5 
 6. Vukona, Nelson1.4 
 7. Trueman, Taranaki1.2 
 8. Iti, Southland S.1.1 
 9. Boucher, Harbour .1.0 
 10. Johnson, Taranaki1.0 


Standings Men
NBL Standings
 1. Harbour Heat 6-0 
 2. Waikato 6-1 
 3. Nelson 5-2 
 4. Wellington 5-3 
 5. Taranaki 4-3 
 6. Bay Hawks 4-4 
 7. Southland Sharks 3-5 
 8. Cougars 3-6 
 9. Manawatu 0-5 
 10. Otago 0-7 


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  PALESTINE   


Standings - Men
PBBA Standings
 1. De La Salle 8-0 
 2. Ibdaa D. 7-1 
 3. Orthodox R. 7-2 
 4. Sarriyet 6-2 
 5. Catholic A. 6-3 
 6. Qalandia 6-3 
 7. Hiteen 4-4 
 8. Orthodox BJ 3-5 
 9. Ebal 3-5 
 10. Al Ahli 3-5 
 11. Bethlehem 3-5 
 12. Terrasanta 3-6 
 13. Orth. Thaq. BS 2-6 
 14. Islami 2-6 
 15. RaI AlSaleh 2-7 
 16. AlAroob YC 2-7 


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


Semifinals, Game 1: Rainmen done in by sloppy second - by Eurobasket News
The Halifax Rainmen picked a bad time to play their worst statistical quarter of the season.

The Rainmen put up a season-low 14 points in the second quarter and - despite holding the edge in three other stanzas - were unable to recover in a 108-104 loss to the Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry in the opener of the Premier Basketball League best-of-three semifinals before a crowd of 1,925 at the Metro Centre on Thursday.

The Cavalry grabbed the lead 1:40 into the second quarter and used a 17-point edge in that frame to bury the Rainmen, who never led again.

That quarter hurt us a lot, conceded Rainmen centre Larry Turner.

Point guard Gary Ervin (6'1''-G-83, college: Arkansas) piled up 13 of his team-high 26 points in the final 3:07 of the game to bring the Rainmen to life and give the crowd hope of a comeback. His two free throws with 25.2 seconds to go narrowed the gap to one, 105-104, but the Cavalry regained a three-point edge a fraction of a second later on a pair of free throws.

A rare Ervin miss and a Tony Bennett (6'1''-G-84, college: Bradley) turnover in the final 24.3 seconds sealed the Rainmens fate. Tim Ellis (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas St.) scored 29 points for the winners and pulled down 9 rebounds.

Throughout the whole game we made mistakes we shouldnt make, allowing transition baskets, Ervin said. Were not going to blame it on one quarter. We had a chance to win the basketball game in the final minute. Those are opportunities you have to take advantage of, especially at home.

Cavalry head coach Michael Ray Richardson, who called his clubs second-quarter defence unbelievable and the key to the game, said his game plan was to limit Halifax on the offensive glass. The Rainmen had just seven offensive boards, more than half their season average.

Limit them to one shot, he said. If you keep them off the glass, theyre in trouble.

The Rainmen are indeed in trouble, with Games 2 and 3, if necessary, in Oklahoma on Sunday and Tuesday, both at 10 p.m.

This series is far from over, Ervin said. Just like they stole one here, we can go there and steal two.

Courtesy by www.metronews.ca


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Larry AYUSO
  Capitanes
  (190-G-77)
  Avg: 22.3
 1. Ayuso, Capitanes22.3 
 2. Sherrill, Maryland.20.9 
 3. Anderson, Manchest.19.8 
 4. Bennett, Halifax R.19.8 
 5. Wise, Quebec K.19.1 
 6. Audet-Sow, Quebec K.19.1 
 7. Robinson, Buffa.18.9 
 8. Bronson, Manchest.18.4 
 9. Mouton, Maryland.18.3 
 10. Jackson, Vermo.18.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Eric CROOKSHANK
  Halifax R.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 13.9
 1. Crookshank, Halif.13.9 
 2. Reyes, Capitanes13.8 
 3. Aubry, Capitanes13.2 
 4. Cunningham, Maryland.10.2 
 5. Wise, Quebec K.9.4 
 6. Demasi, Vermont FH9.4 
 7. Ocitti, Manchest.8.6 
 8. Johnson, Rocheste.8.3 
 9. Bronson, Manchest.8.3 
 10. Ross, Buffalo S.8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Anthony ANDERSON
  Manchester M.
  (180-G-81)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Anderson, Manchest.6.8 
 2. Rodriguez, Capit.6.6 
 3. Ervin, Halifax R.6.0 
 4. Bowden, Lawton F.5.8 
 5. Crouch, Rocheste.5.7 
 6. Rice, Vermont FH5.6 
 7. Flegler, Maryland.5.2 
 8. Daniels, Lawton F.4.8 
 9. Mouton, Maryland.4.6 
 10. Sherrill, Maryland.4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Marlin JOHNSON
  Rochester R.
  (193-F-75)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Johnson, Rocheste.2.8 
 2. Bowden, Lawton F.2.3 
 3. Robinson, Buffa.2.2 
 4. Fortier, Quebec K.2.0 
 5. Holmes, Quebec K.1.9 
 6. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC1.8 
 7. Rice, Vermont FH1.8 
 8. Gilchrese, Manche.1.8 
 9. Thomas, Maryland.1.8 
 10. Crouch, Rocheste.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Michael ANDERSON
  Maryland GH
  (213-C-84)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Anderson, Maryland.3.2 
 2. Davis, Vermont FH2.3 
 3. Aubry, Capitanes2.0 
 4. Thomas, Maryland.1.9 
 5. Crookshank, Halif.1.6 
 6. Ocitti, Manchest.1.6 
 7. Turner, Halifax R.1.5 
 8. McKeon, Maryland.1.4 
 9. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC1.2 
 10. Marshall, Lawton F.1.1 


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


Captains continue on a roll - by Luis Ramirez
After losing to the Humacao Caciques last week, the Arecibo Captains have made it 4 wins in a row as they defeated the San German Athletics 82-69 last night. Arecibo jumped to the lead in the 1st quarter as they took the quarter 21-15, but the Athletics came right back in the 2nd quarter to tie the game as the half ended to 36 points each.

In the 3rd quarter the Captains once again had an offensive quarter and took a 5 point lead into the final period, 57-52. In the 4th quarter the Athletics would get no close than 2 points of the Captains, 60-58 with 7:43 left in the game. The Captains took command of the game and starting extending their lead. The Athletics would not be a threat the rest of the game.

For Arecibo, David Cortes (190-G/F-81) scored 20 points and captured 9 rebounds while Larry Ayuso scored 16 points.

For San German, Leroy Hickerson scored 21 points with 7 rebounds and 4 assists while Ryann Abraham scored 13 points.

This was the only game on tap last night for the BSN.

The trading deadline for the BSN is this Saturday April 17th. Teams will not be able to add any players to their roster after this date other than an injured imported player. There are a lot of rumors going around with the deadline fast approaching; we will keep you posted on any late developments.


Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
 1. Capitanes 12-3 
 2. Bayamon 12-4 
 3. Ponce 9-6 
 4. San German 7-7 
 5. Humacao 7-7 
 6. Guaynabo 7-7 
 7. Santurce 7-8 
 8. Quebradillas 5-10 
 9. Isabela 5-10 
 10. Mayaguez 3-12 


Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Alejandro CARMONA
  Mayaguez
  (194-G/F-83)
  Avg: 24.2
 1. Carmona, Mayaguez24.2 
 2. McGowan, Guaynabo21.4 
 3. Nailon, Quebradillas21.0 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon20.9 
 5. Maye, Mayaguez20.2 
 6. Hickerson, San G.19.2 
 7. Nailon, Ponce19.2 
 8. Ayuso, Capitanes18.3 
 9. Priutt, Isabela18.2 
 10. Perez, Isabela18.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn PRIUTT
  Isabela
  (208-C-85)
  Avg: 14.2
 1. Priutt, Isabela14.2 
 2. Sweetney, Santurce11.6 
 3. Traylor, Bayamon10.6 
 4. Dyer, San German10.1 
 5. Reyes, Capitanes9.4 
 6. Aubry, Capitanes9.4 
 7. Narvaez, Ponce9.3 
 8. Collins, Ponce9.0 
 9. Walker, Guaynabo8.6 
 10. Redhage, Quebradillas8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Dalmau, Bayamon6.2 
 2. Russell, Quebradillas5.4 
 3. Cruz, Ponce5.3 
 4. Graham, Mayaguez5.3 
 5. Copeland, San G.5.2 
 6. Hatton, Ponce4.8 
 7. Guzman, Guaynabo4.6 
 8. Rivera, Isabela4.2 
 9. Rodriguez, Capit.4.1 
 10. Nailon, Ponce4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Ali BERDIEL
  Humacao
  (198-G-83)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Berdiel, Humacao2.4 
 2. Carmona, Mayaguez2.3 
 3. Mays, Humacao1.8 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon1.7 
 5. Rivera, Isabela1.7 
 6. Perez, Isabela1.7 
 7. Copeland, San G.1.6 
 8. McGowan, Guaynabo1.6 
 9. Sanchez, Santurce1.5 
 10. Shannon, Bayamon1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Glen MCGOWAN
  Guaynabo
  (206-F-81)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. McGowan, Guaynabo1.6 
 2. Gainous, Santurce1.3 
 3. Perez, Isabela1.3 
 4. Reyes, Capitanes1.3 
 5. Russell, Quebradillas1.3 
 6. Nieves, Santurce1.3 
 7. Priutt, Isabela1.3 
 8. Shannon, Bayamon1.2 
 9. Nailon, Quebradillas1.0 
 10. Maye, Mayaguez1.0 


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


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 O''Darien BASSETT
  Craiova
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Bassett, Craiova20.7 
 2. Bassett, Craiova20.7 
 3. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.20.6 
 4. Pesic, Timisoara19.0 
 5. Peciukas, Mures19.0 
 6. Mandic, Oradea18.4 
 7. Bubanja, Brasov17.8 
 8. Santana, Municipal B.17.4 
 9. Mack, Steaua T.17.3 
 10. Smith, CSU Sibiu17.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Trevor HARVEY
  Craiova
  (211-C-80)
  Avg: 10
 1. Harvey, Craiova10.0 
 2. Harvey, Craiova10.0 
 3. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.9.2 
 4. Carutasu, Ploiesti9.2 
 5. Herndon, CSU Sibiu9.2 
 6. Masiulis, Mures9.1 
 7. Paltinisanu, Timis.8.2 
 8. Nicoara, Gaz Metan8.0 
 9. Roschnafsky, Gladia.7.9 
 10. Waterstradt, Munici.7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Jarrett HOWELL
  Gaz Metan
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Howell, Gaz Metan5.5 
 2. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN5.5 
 3. Cooley, Mures5.4 
 4. Dzambic, Timisoara4.9 
 5. Dawson, Gladiato.4.6 
 6. Fometescu, Dinamo B.4.4 
 7. Howard, Gladiato.4.4 
 8. Bassett, Craiova4.3 
 9. Bassett, Craiova4.3 
 10. Mitchell, Oradea4.2 
Steals Per Game
 JuJuan COOLEY
  Mures
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Cooley, Mures2.6 
 2. Howell, Gaz Metan2.4 
 3. Johnson, CSU Sibiu2.4 
 4. Mitchell, Gaz Metan2.2 
 5. Medvedj, U.Mobite.2.1 
 6. Maric, Oradea2.0 
 7. Mack, Steaua T.1.9 
 8. Dawson, Gladiato.1.9 
 9. Peciukas, Mures1.9 
 10. Mandache, Otopeni1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Arturas MASIULIS
  Mures
  (210-C-80)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Masiulis, Mures2.2 
 2. Lazar, Oradea1.8 
 3. Herndon, CSU Sibiu1.8 
 4. Thomson, U.Mobite.1.7 
 5. Dragusin, Pitesti1.6 
 6. Harvey, Craiova1.5 
 7. Harvey, Craiova1.5 
 8. Dragovic, Craiova1.4 
 9. Dragovic, Craiova1.4 
 10. Wiggins, Steaua T.1.1 


U Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca vs. BC Mures Targu-Mures playoff series preview - by Sebastian Umbrich
One of the four quarter-finals from the Romanian play-offs will be played between CS U-Mobitelco Cluj Napoca (winner of the regular season) and BC Mures Targu-Mures (ranked 8th after the regular season). After taking a look only at the standings, one would say that U Cluj is clearly the favorite. But, not to forget that Mures won against two well-situated teams: against Medias and against Sibiu.
Now, the strengths and the weaknesses of the two teams will be presented:
Strengths of U Cluj: a very united team (4 of the starting five played together since 2006), the two wins over Mures during the regular season (82-55 in Mures, 87-81 in Cluj), home ground advantage, where Cluj has won 13 out of 15 matches during the regular season (only Sibiu and Medias won there).
Weaknesses of Cluj:
The coach, Marcel Tenter , is only at his first season as a coach, he having taken the team from the command of Thomas Baldwin , a much experimented coach; however, Marcel Tenter managed to finish the regular season with a 25-5 record; the only question sign is if he will be able to keep up with the pressure from the play-offs.
Another weakness is the starting five: while the three Serbs from Cluj (Branko Cuic (196-G-78), Milan Medvedj (183-G-79), Zoran Krstanovic (205-C-82)) will for sure find themselves in the starting five, the same with Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) (the necessary Romanian player), but the 5th player is not sure who it will be: if David Lawrence (201-F-85, college: Charleston) recovers from the injury, he will probably be the 5th man in the team; if not, the highest chances to play has Paul Chetreanu (190-G-85), a young hope of the Romanian basketball. Also, Rob Thompson (215-C-82, college: Fairfield) may be a sollution for the center, but this will not be the best choice, Thompson playing excellent in the defense, but not doing so well while playing offensive.
Strengths of Mures:
A very well shaped team, with a dominant small guard, JuJuan Cooley (175-G-82, college: Indiana Tech), a very talented small forward (Vaidotas Peciukas (199-G-82, agency: Interperformances, college: Hawaii)) a very good 3-point sniper (Marius Pociukonis (189-G-82)) and a very efficient center, while playing in the defense, (Arturas Masiulis (210-C-80, agency: Interperformances)). Not to forget Branislav Tomic, who will probably be the 1st player to substitute someone else.
Weaknesses of Mures:
Coach Audrius Prakuraitis has 6 players, but can use only 5 during a match; moreover, he does not have solid Romanian players: probably the Romanian one in the starting five will be Vlad Pora (193-G-84), while Cristian Jakab (207-C-81) and Horia Hora (190-G-88) will be substitutes.
Another dilemma of Mures are the away wins: in order to qualify for the semis, Mures is forced to win at least one match in Cluj; during the entire regular season, Mures has won only 4 out of the 15 games played away, and the 4 wins came against the teams situated on places 13 to 16.
Now, the result which many Romanian basketball fans think will be: U Cluj will win the series in maximum 4 matches.


Div.A Round: 1 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Ploiesti - Pitesti 87-67
Ploiesti won the Quarter-Finals Round 1 over Pitesti 87:67. Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) stepped up with 23 points for the winners and Burlacu Catalin nailed 20. Vujacic Darko responded with 19 points in the losing effort.

CSU Sibiu - Timisoara 74-87
Timisoara became the only team that play away from home to win the Quarter-Finals Round 1 as they rolled over CSU Sibiu. Milos Pesic (202-F-84) top-scored for the winners with 20 points, while Milos Pesic notched 18. Smith Jason ended up with 20 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort.

U.Mobitel.CN - Mures 84-60
U-Mobitelco Cluj-Napoca cruised past Mures 84:60 to take 1-0 lead in the Quarter-Finals. Zoran Krstanovic (205-C-82) collected 14 points and 11 boards for the hosts, while Cuic Branko and Dykes Kyndall netted 12 apiece. Cooley JuJuan scored 15 points for the visiting team.

Gaz Metan - Steaua Turabo 91-81
Gaz Metan won the opener of the Play-offs over Steaua Turabo 91:81. Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency: Interperformances) paced all the winners with 24 points and Howell Jarrett followed him with 17. Papic Dragoslav and Wiggins Alan prodced 17 points each in defeat.


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


Raduljica's a double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
22-year old center Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88), agency: Buck Andre) put on an amazing game in the last round for FMP Zeleznik Beograd and it's enough to give him a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 2.
He had a double-double of 19 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Borac (#17, 0-2) the league's worst team 84-77. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. FMP maintains the 16th position in Serbian league. FMP is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 1st lost game this season out of 2 games. Raduljica has many years of experience at FMP, through which he has constantly improved.

Second best performed player last round was Mile Ilic (215-C-84), agency: Beo Basket) of Vujic Metalac Valjevo. He is naturalized Bosnia and Herzegovina center in his first season at Metalac. In the last game Ilic recorded impressive double-double of 18 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Metalac lost that game 69-81 to Hemofarm (2-0). The Second Stage is still at the very beginning and this lost game may not be such crucial, of course if they start win the games. Let's wait for the next round. Ilic is one of the most experienced players at Metalac and has a reputation of the team's most reliable player.

Third place about best performers goes to another FMP Zeleznik Beograd's star - swingman Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80), agency: Interperformances). Videnov scored 22 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was another key player of FMP, helping his team with a 84-77 win against Borac (#17, 0-2). FMP needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 1 victories and 1 lost games. Videnov has a very solid season. In 2 games in Serbia he scored 15.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vladimir Panic (194-F-82) of Metalac - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Lester McCalebb (183-G-85) of Partizan - 17 points, 3 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Branko Jorovic (205-F-81) of Borac - 18 points and 9 rebounds
7. Stefan Markovic (194-G-88) of Hemofarm - 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) of Hemofarm - 19 points and 5 rebounds
9. Oliver Stevic (204-F/C-84) of Crvena Zvez. - 11 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Vuk Radivojevic (197-G-83) of Crvena Zvez. - 10 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists

Sloga hires new head coach - by Eurobasket News
Sloga announced signing of Bojan Kusmuk as a Head Coach for season 2010/11. Most recently, Kusmuk coached at BCMUS Arges Pitesti and KK Slavija Istocno Sarajevo. At the same time, Sloga hired Milos Mijajlovic (207-C-66) as an Assistant Coach.
Meanwhile, FMP signed 4-year deal with Nikola Siladi (206-F-92). Young Serbian player was a member of U16 Serbia on U16 European Championships in Italy, 2008. This year he helped FMP junior team to win the title at Nike Euroleague Junior Tournament.

Interview: Dusko Vujosevic, Head Coach of Partizan Belgrade - by Eurobasket News
Although Paris will be only his second Final Four, when it comes to experience, Dusko Vujosevic has lapped the other coaches he will see in the City of Lights. Vujosevic has about as many years on the bench coaching as the other three Final Four head coaches combined. In fact, he coached against two of them as players, including Olympiacos boss Panagiotis Giannakis at the original Final Four in 1988. But experience is not the only thing that separates Vujosevic, the Aleksander Gomelski Coach of the Year last season, from the rest. First a Partizan supporter and junior player before entering coaching, Vujosevic enjoys a special bond with the Partizan fans. He just completed his ninth straight season and 14th overall on the Partizan bench and has been, along with the fans, the main recurring factor in the clubs success. 'There is a secret ingredient to our success... We always have a great desire to win,' Vujosevic told Euroleague.net. 'We work very hard and we try to improve every day in practice. We probably work more than all the other teams. I think the work we put in every day is more important than what we do in the games.'

Hello coach and congratulations on reaching the Final Four! You have taken Partizan to the Final Four despite the odds. How do you feel personally about this accomplishment?
Even the most courageous person could not have dreamed of us reaching the Final Four when the season began. But when the games began, we just thought about the best ways to beat our opponents. We simply tried to do our best. There are the fans, there is pressure, and you never think the opponents are better than you are. So we took things game by game and we arrived here at the end. The team was completed before we went on our preseason tour of the States, but without foreign players. After we added them, day-by-day we created the atmosphere we wanted and then the big wins came, giving us more courage and motivation. We're a good team, and by making a lot of upsets we arrived here. After the decisive game with Maccabi, there was a great happiness, but it was just for a short time. We had to look forward to the next challenge.

When did you start to see the Final Four as a real possibility for your team this season?
After Game 1 [of the Quarterfinal Playoffs] in Tel Aviv, that night I understood we had a good chance to reach the Final Four, but it wasn't easy to beat them three times in eight days. That is not easy for anyone.

You said during the Euroleague American Tour back in October that it would help in the important moments of the season. How did that tour help you become a better team?
'It was very difficult to go there and play game against the best athletes in the world and lose by 30 or 40 points. Then you have to travel a lot, there is the jet leg, and we came back when the season was already started here in Europe. And we began with many defeats. But I think that when you go to play against big players, you understand what it means to play at that level, and you can improve. Those games gave my players a great lesson in playing at a different speed and intensity, for example. And I had the opportunity to talk with the coaches of those teams, exchange ideas and experiences, and it was very important for our improvements during the season. It was also for the club a good occasion to build more respect and tradition.'

This will be your first Final Four since coaching Partizan at the original one back in 1988. What do you remember about your first Final Four, against such legendary players like Panagiotis Giannakis, who is now on the bench at Olympiacos?
'We were victims of the competition system change at that time. Previously, there was just a final game between the first two in the standings, and in 1988 the Final Four arrived and everything changed. We were first in the table, but we played in the semifinal against Maccabi, which was ranked fourth, and we finished just third after beating Aris, which had legendary players like Nikos Galis and Panagiotis Giannakis, who was a player with great physical power, a great defender, a man with great pride. Our team was full of young guys and the better part of them became top-level players later.'

What sort of particular challenge does Olympiacos present in the semifinal for your team?
'The game with Olympiacos is still far away. Lets say that on paper, they are the favorite, but we play on a neutral court and all four teams coming to Paris have the same 25-percent chance of winning the Euroleague.'

Even though Partizan is famous for its homegrown players, you found success with major contributions from Jan Vesely, Aleks Maric, Lawrence Roberts and Bo McCalebb - all relative newcomers to Belgrade. How do you turn new players into real Partizan stars so quickly?
Each of us was born in a country, but it does not depend on us where that was. Its just a fact that Vesely was born in the Czech Republic, or McCalebb in the United States or Maric in Australia. Here at Partizan everybody is a homegrown player! There are not Serbian players and foreign players. We know just Partizan players. All of them have the same rights and the same responsibilities. They play to accomplish what we set out to do in the locker room and during practice. They have to go out and do what they do best, simple things but all together, and the fans like that.'

Partizan seems to lose important players every summer, but remains competitive. What is the secret to keeping Partizan a solid Euroleague team year after year?
'There is a secret ingredient to our success... We always have a great desire to win. We work very hard and we try to improve every day in practice. We probably work more than all the other teams. I think the work we put in every day is more important than what we do in the games.'

Partizan has based its success on strength at home, where tens of thousands of fans create an incredible basketball atmosphere. How much did they influence Partizan getting to the Final Four?
Listen, I think we won many important games on the road, like in Malaga against Unicaja, in Athens against Panathinaikos and Game 1 in Tel Aviv against Maccabi, so I think we're not just a home-oriented team. All teams play better on their home court, but we have the heart to win against big teams on the road. And we'll play the next games on a neutral court...'

Were you a Partizan fan as a young person, too, in the stands at Pionir, before making basketball your profession?
'Yes, sure. I played for Partizan youth teams, but I did not have the talent and it was a bad situation for me knowing that I would never be part of the main team. So my job became different. I had no talent for shooting, but I had different talent, the one you need to be a coach, and I switched to that job. When I work for a team, I'm the first fan of that team, but when I'm without job, and it has happened, I support Partizan. My idol when I was a fan in the stands in Pionir was Drazen Dalipagic.'

Partizan is just two wins away from its second Euroleague title. After so many years at the club, what would it mean for you, personally, to lift the Euroleague trophy in Paris?
'I know we are probably not considered the main candidate to lift the trophy, but to be there for me will be the chance to achieve the dream of my lifetime.'

And how do you feel now for the players on your team when no one else believed they could do something like this?
'Im really proud of my players, they are great people first of all. They get along and work hard every day in practice, so I'm really happy for them.'

Courtesy of Euroleague (http://www.euroleague.net/features/interviews/euroleague-2009-10/i/70512/3991/dusko-vujosevic-partizan)

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


King's a double-double lands him (Second Stage) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old center Shawn King (208-C-82)) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Hopsi Polzela and it's enough to give him a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 6 (Second Stage).
He had a double-double of 45 points and 15 rebounds, while his team crushed the league's worst team Sencur CP (#13, 0-29) with 23-point margin 119-96. It allowed Polzela to take over top position in the Slovenian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Polzela will need more victories to improve their 20-10 record. It's King's second year at Polzela and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Oral Roberts University graduate is in league's top in points (2nd best: 20.8ppg), league's leader: 11.0rpg, blocks (2.5bpg) and 64.0% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Roman Horvat (200-F-71), agency: VTBM) of Sencur Cestno Podjetje Kranj. He is former international forward in his second season at Sencur CP. In the last game Horvat recorded impressive 32 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Bad luck as Sencur CP lost that game 96-119 to the higher-ranked Polzela (#1, 20-10). Sencur CP are still at the very bottom. 29 lost games is too many comparing to just 0 victories Sencur CP managed to get this year. Horvat is well-known at Sencur CP and he already established his position as the team's leader.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Sasa Mucic (202-F-83)) of Zasavje PRO-TEK (#9). Mucic scored 27 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Rudar, leading his team to a 85-82 win against slightly lower-ranked Zlatorog (#11, 1-5). Rudar needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 3 victories and 3 lost games. He has a great season in Slovenia. After 28 games, Mucic made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.4ppg (4th best). He also has FGP: 59.1% and 3PT: 40.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marcus Crenshaw (178-G-86) of Sentjur - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists
5. Tomasz Nowakowski (209-C-90) of Luka Koper - 24 points, 10 rebounds and 1 assist
6. Nemanja Aleksandrov (210-C/F-87) of U.Olimpija - 22 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Sandi Cebular (196-G-86) of Sentjur - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Grega Mali (197-G-84) of Rudar - 21 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Stanko Sebic (204-F/C-84) of Polzela - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 1 assist
10. Vlado Ilievski (190-G-80) of U.Olimpija - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists

Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Sandi CEBULAR
  Sentjur
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Cebular, Sentjur22.1 
 2. King, Polzela20.8 
 3. Crenshaw, Sentjur16.9 
 4. Mucic, Rudar16.4 
 5. Dragic, Geoplin .16.0 
 6. Feeley, Elektra .16.0 
 7. Cup, Elektra .15.9 
 8. Drzic, Luka Koper15.7 
 9. Snow, Helios15.5 
 10. Djapa, Parklji14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn KING
  Polzela
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 11
 1. King, Polzela11.0 
 2. Feeley, Elektra .8.5 
 3. Thondique, Polzela8.1 
 4. Djapa, Parklji6.9 
 5. Virijevic, Sencur C.6.7 
 6. Nuhanovic, Elektr.6.7 
 7. Nikolic, Krka6.5 
 8. Miljkovic, Elektr.6.3 
 9. Cup, Elektra .6.3 
 10. Pavic, Krka6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Tadej KOSTOMAJ
  Elektra Esotech
  (186-G-87)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Kostomaj, Elektr.5.6 
 2. Crenshaw, Sentjur5.1 
 3. Anzulovic, Rudar3.9 
 4. Mocnik, Helios3.7 
 5. Cmer, Zlatorog3.6 
 6. Nachbar, Luka Koper3.5 
 7. Jersin, Parklji3.3 
 8. Venta, Polzela3.2 
 9. Cebular, Sentjur3.1 
 10. Udrih, Polzela3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra Esotech
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Nuhanovic, Elektr.1.8 
 2. Snow, Helios1.8 
 3. Ristic, Sencur CP1.8 
 4. Udrih, Polzela1.7 
 5. Dragic, Geoplin .1.6 
 6. Lapornik, Sentjur1.6 
 7. Markic, Luka Koper1.6 
 8. Cebular, Sentjur1.6 
 9. Jovanovic, Sencur C.1.6 
 10. Mocnik, Helios1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Shawn KING
  Polzela
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. King, Polzela2.5 
 2. Nuhanovic, Elektr.1.4 
 3. Nikolic, Krka1.3 
 4. Collins, Zlatorog1.3 
 5. Ibok, Polzela0.8 
 6. Lucic, Krka0.8 
 7. Cup, Elektra .0.8 
 8. Sjekloca, Elektr.0.7 
 9. Mucic, Rudar0.7 
 10. Sebic, Polzela0.7 


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


Standings - LEB Gold
LEB Gold Standings
 1. CAI Zaragoza 27-6 
 2. Melilla 24-9 
 3. Vive Menorca 20-13 
 4. La Laguna 20-13 
 5. Burgos 20-13 
 6. Caceres 19-14 
 7. Breogan 18-14 
 8. Leon 18-15 
 9. La Palma 16-16 
 10. Mallorca 16-17 
 11. Girona 16-17 
 12. Tenerife 15-18 
 13. Palencia 14-19 
 14. Ourense 13-20 
 15. Clin.Rincon 12-21 
 16. CB Tarragona 12-21 
 17. Cornella 10-23 
 18. Vigo 6-27 


Standings - LEB Silver
LEB Standings
Group A
 1. Huesca 15-6 
 2. Navarra 12-9 
 3. Caja Rioja 11-10 
 4. Alaior 10-5 
 5. Santurtzi 10-6 
 6. Andorra 10-11 
 7. Rosalia 9-6 
 8. L'Hospitalet 8-7 
 9. Prat Juventud 8-13 
 10. Coruna 8-13 
 11. ADT Tarragona 7-8 
Group B
 1. Alcazar 16-5 
 2. Promobys 16-5 
 3. Plasencia 10-11 
 4. Huelva 9-12 
 5. Real M. II 7-8 
 6. Matchmind 7-8 
 7. Qalat CajaSol 6-9 
 8. Guadalajara 6-15 
 9. Illescas 5-16 
 10. CajasurCord. 4-11 


Stats Leaders - LEB Gold
Points Per Game
 Darren PHILLIP
  CAI Zaragoza
  (201-F-78)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Phillip, CAI Z.18.1 
 2. Donaldson, La La.17.3 
 3. Morley, Burgos17.2 
 4. Riera, Mallorca16.9 
 5. Guillen, La Laguna16.2 
 6. Roe, Tenerife15.3 
 7. Humphrey, Leon15.1 
 8. Quinteros, CAI Z.14.8 
 9. Hess, CB Tarragona14.8 
 10. Rabaseda, Cornella14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jakim DONALDSON
  La Laguna
  (203-C/F-83)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Donaldson, La La.11.1 
 2. Starosta, Melilla9.3 
 3. Sinanovic, Clin.Rin.9.1 
 4. Arteaga, Palencia8.3 
 5. Lima, Clin.Rincon8.2 
 6. Adrien, Breogan7.8 
 7. Coleman, Breogan7.8 
 8. Phillip, CAI Z.7.5 
 9. Humphrey, Leon7.3 
 10. Padgett, La Palma7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Diego CIORCIARI
  Vive Menorca
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 5
 1. Ciorciari, Vive M.5.0 
 2. Mendiburu, CB Tarra.4.6 
 3. Cherry, Caceres4.4 
 4. Mena, La Palma4.1 
 5. Jimenez, Melilla3.6 
 6. Perez, Cornella3.5 
 7. Bernabe, Leon3.4 
 8. Hernandez, Burgos3.0 
 9. Urtasun, Leon3.0 
 10. Riera, Mallorca3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Matias LESCANO
  CAI Zaragoza
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lescano, CAI Z.2.4 
 2. Rabaseda, Cornella2.4 
 3. Blanch, Mallorca2.3 
 4. Fuentes, Clin.Rincon2.1 
 5. Boccia, Tenerife2.0 
 6. Ayon, Tenerife1.8 
 7. Quinteros, CAI Z.1.8 
 8. Howell, Ourense1.7 
 9. Xavier, Breogan1.7 
 10. Perez, Cornella1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew NAYMICK
  Caceres
  (208-C-85)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Naymick, Caceres1.9 
 2. Sinanovic, Clin.Rin.1.6 
 3. Ayon, Tenerife1.5 
 4. Elonu, CAI Zaragoza1.5 
 5. Diouf, CB Tarragona1.5 
 6. Donaldson, La La.1.5 
 7. Joseph, Cornella1.2 
 8. Samb, Cornella1.2 
 9. Roe, Tenerife1.1 
 10. Humphrey, Leon0.9 


LEB Silver Round: 10 (Second Stage) - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Huesca - Guadalajara 100-66
Huesca had Asier Zengotitabengoa on fire yesterday with 30 points. Zengotitabengoa had 5 rebounds beside that and he spent 29 minutes on the floor due to foul troubles. Zachary Andrews had 16 pts and 6 rebounds in this win. In Guadalajara, Javier Mugica scored 15 pts and grabbed 12 boards.

Navarra - Plasencia 60-62
Sergio Soria was perfect last night scoring 19 points for 17 minutes on the floor. Soria made all five attempts from behind the arc and two for FG2. Marko Sekulic followed him with 16 pts and 5 boards. In the loosing squad, Jeffrey Parmer had double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds.

Caja Rioja - Alcazar 78-84
Alcazar got 22 points and 15 rebounds from Jerod Ward last night, while Dexter Lyons added 17 pts. Marc Rubio netted 12 pts in this win, but with poor 0/6 for 3-pts. Enriqe Suarez posted 21 pts for the hosts.

Prat Juventud - Huelva 72-67
Prat Juventud celebrated 72-67 home win against Huelva mostly owing to David Jelinek who scored 14 points, and Gerber Marti who had 13 points and 10 rebounds. Jaume Comas helped the hosts with 11 pts and 8 assists. On the other side, Huelva got 16 pts from Wayne Nelson.

Andorra - Promobys 65-84
Promobys cruised past Andorra on the road getting 18 points from Federico Bavosi. Robert Johnson collected 12 points and 9 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Courtney Pigram delivered 15 pts.

Coruna - Illescas 81-80
Thriller win for Coruna, whose leading player last night was Nathan Miller with 21 points and 5 rebounds coming from the bench. Douglas Nunes also shined netting 18 pts and pulling down 8 boards. Thomas Sanders collected 17 pts, 6 boards and 5 assists for the guests.



Stats Leaders-LEB Silver
Points Per Game
 Courtney PIGRAM
  Andorra
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 16.5
 1. Pigram, Andorra16.5 
 2. Johnson, Huesca15.8 
 3. Ferrer, Cajasur .15.8 
 4. Vereen, Rosalia15.7 
 5. Uriz, Santurtzi15.5 
 6. Wolfram, Andorra15.4 
 7. Barcelo, Plasencia15.4 
 8. Miller, Coruna15.3 
 9. Thompson, ADT T.15.3 
 10. Zengotitaben., Hue.14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ronald THOMPSON
  ADT Tarragona
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 8.9
 1. Thompson, ADT T.8.9 
 2. Miller, Huelva8.7 
 3. Howard, Guadalaj.8.3 
 4. Santana, Caja Rioja7.9 
 5. Williams, Matchmind7.8 
 6. Ausina, Matchmind7.7 
 7. Johnson, Huesca7.7 
 8. Andrews, Huesca7.1 
 9. Matali, Andorra7.0 
 10. Wachsmann, Alcazar6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Ricardo BUSCIGLIO
  Caja Rioja
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Busciglio, Caja Rioja5.2 
 2. Castello, ADT T.4.8 
 3. Rufian, Huelva4.6 
 4. Gonzalez, Navarra3.8 
 5. Santamaria, ADT T.3.7 
 6. Cardenas, Qalat C.3.7 
 7. Rodriguez, Rosalia3.7 
 8. Canals, Alaior3.7 
 9. Alonso, Matchmind3.6 
 10. Comas, Prat J.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Antonio GOMEZ
  Huelva
  (193-G-79)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Gomez, Huelva2.5 
 2. Miller, Coruna2.4 
 3. Barcelo, Plasencia2.3 
 4. Johnson, Huesca2.1 
 5. Suka-Umu, Cajasur .2.1 
 6. Ott, Caja Rioja2.0 
 7. Martinez, Huelva1.9 
 8. Higgs, L''Hospitalet1.8 
 9. Alonso, Matchmind1.7 
 10. Pino, L''Hospitalet1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Bismack BIYOMBO
  Illescas
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Byombo, Illescas1.5 
 2. Adams, Navarra1.4 
 3. Thompson, ADT T.1.2 
 4. Bain, ADT Tarragona1.1 
 5. Matali, Andorra1.0 
 6. Andrews, Huesca1.0 
 7. Joseph, Rosalia0.9 
 8. Sekulic, Plasencia0.9 
 9. Williams, Matchmind0.8 
 10. Miller, Huelva0.8 


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


YOU HAVE TO TAKE THE GOOD WITH THE BAD - by Brandon McKnight
Hello eurobasket! Here i am again posting my second blog and i would like to talk about the good and bad dealing with Europe. You know its very funny to me that people seem to think that professional basketball players overseas have it so nice and sweet. When in reality everything is not what it seems. I have people asking me all the time 'you live the good life over there huh? they treat you like a KING'. Well in some cases they do, but not it all. See playing pro basketball in the states is a little bit different because if you sign a contract in the states your money is guaranteed without any doubt. Here in Europe that is not the case, I know many people who have signed contracts for a certain amount of money and didn't receive the full payment or if any at all. My first year in Turkey i received all of my money the team was very professional so i didn't have to worry about that at all. My second year i was in Turkey again, but on a different team and i didn't receive all of my money. They were fining me for things that weren't even in my contract. Like for example towards the end of the year when they seen we couldn't make the playoffs they started fining my teammates and myself for losing. I'm thinking to myself like 'WOW ARE YOU SERIOUS' i have never heard such a thing. I know you can get fined for going against the rules in your contract such as being last to practice, or to a game etc, but i have never heard anything like this before. So my next season i wanted to be in a situation where i knew i would get paid all of my money. So i decided to come to Sweden because i heard that the money is guaranteed. I got all the money that i was supposed to get plus bonus for winning the championship. The following year i went to Israel where i didn't receive all of my money once again. I'm like 'OH LORD' here we go again, but like my second season in Turkey this didn't start to happen until the end of the season. The team still owes me my last paycheck, but who knows if i would ever see that. The other crazy thing about that is during the whole year i would receive a lot of my paychecks late. I had to repeatedly ask for my money it was so unprofessional. It made my whole experience in Israel not very pleasant because i was unhappy about what was taking place with my ball club. So once again i had to come back to a place that was very secure which is Sweden. I have received all of my checks on time sometimes ahead of schedule. Which i really am thankful for because of what i have been through.

See the thing about the states you will never have to worry about any of this. Like lets take the NBA for example. They will receive all of their money without a question, but they have to pay taxes which is ridiculous i think. In Europe whatever you sign for in your contract you are supposed to get tax free, but the sad thing about that is that you may not receive it all. NBA players don't have this problem at all which is a great thing for them. Although there are some countries in Europe that you know for sure you can get all of your money, but not too many places you have to ask around to other players to see how the situation is in certain countries. I learned my lesson now before i go anywhere i will call the players who played on that team the previous year and ask them not only about the money situation, but about the city, organization, and how the people treat you as a player outside of basketball. I even had a few friends who signed to play some places and didn't stay longer than 48 hours once they arrived. Which is very insane to me because how can you have someone fly so many miles to get there for so little time and just send them home with no remorse. We have bills to pay and families to take care of so you would at least think that the teams here would acknowledge that, but now i have realized it doesn't work like that in all places. But the good thing is you could end up in a great situation to get all of your money, be on a winning team, in a great city, and enjoy life outside of basketball. There are a lot of good things as well, but its not all GOLDEN as it seems from the outside looking in. You can also get cut from a team at any given time if you don't perform up to their expectations. So then you might have to change to a whole new team in the middle of the season and get adjusted all over again. Its a constant grind, but what is life without struggle?? No one said it would be easy we all just 'HAVE TO TAKE THE GOOD WITH THE BAD'.

Now I'm currently living in Lulea Sweden. Where the population is 45,000 people. I'm from South Bend IN, which is also a small city, but it is bigger than Lulea. I have never lived in such a small city. Not only is it small, but the winters are very long, cold, and dark. For like 6-7 months i did not see any day light. Talking about someone who was getting depressed?!?!? The good thing is that I am playing for a very professional team who has taken great care of me and we also have had a great season. We finished second in the league and now we are one win away from playing for the championship. So I can't complain at all it could always be worse I lived in some nice cities, but the teams i played for haven't always been to professional. So i take living in a small city with nothing to do than to be in a big city with a lot to do but unhappy. Right now the weather is getting better As i look out my window the sun in shining and its about 50 degrees out right now. I know in some places the weather is a lot better trust me, but after the winter i been through I'm grateful for this. My teammates tell me that this has been the worst winter in 35 years. So I'm like perfect the year i come it would be like this. I will be home in less than a month and the weather is getting better each day. The only thing on my mind now is winning the championship this would be my second straight one in the 2 years i have been playing in Sweden. The name of my team is Plannja Basket. We have the most championships in the history of Swedish basketball with a total of 7. So this is just a little bit so you can get an understanding that yea life overseas for basketball players is good and a blessing, but there are also a lot of things we have to deal with.

I hope you enjoyed my second blog. Hopefully next time i write it will be about us going on our way to the Final round playing for the championship. Make sure you stay tuned as i share about more experiences overseas!
God BLESS!!

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


Somebody's having the Best Week EVER! - by Marcus Sloan
Somebody is having the best week ever, and that somebody is moi! By the way that's one of the few words I know in French, anyway, this week was a great week! My parents finally decided to get their passports and head across the Atlantic Ocean to visit me. I've been playing in Europe for 4 years now, and each year they've said they were coming, and each year I would buy another one of their wolf tickets! But this time they actually made the 5,000 mile trek and we had a great time! It was also a special occasion because my team the Starwings, played in the Swiss Cup against Vacallo, in a nationally televised game, probably the biggest game of the year here in Switzerland. So for me to have my parents, and girlfriend come, and to be playing in the Swiss Cup final, is almost as good as getting ALL of your money on time in Europe, it doesn't happen often, but when it does, you gotta savor it! The game also had a special meaning to me because the game was played in Fribourg, my home for 2 years in Swiss when I was a member of Fribourg Olympic. Saturday, was game day, so there were TV cameras and photographers on the bus and other forms of media all over the place before we arrived in Fribourg. Before I go on about the game, I have to tell you about my dad! He's my hero, I used to think Michael Jordan was my hero, but I realized early on MJ wasn't paying our bills, and putting food on my table, my dad was, and I never forgot that! Ok, now on the other hand, my dad loves me too, and to brag on me! To the point where when I was younger and started to hit my growth spurt, he would make me get out of the car and stand up, just to show his co-workers how tall I was! SMH!! But I love him to death, so needles to say the media attention was right up his alley!

The atmosphere of the game was awesome, it was my 1st Swiss Cup, and the only championship I hadn't won in Swiss, so I was extra motivated to play! Vacallo, our opponent, is a team we'd already played 4 times, both have good coaches and players, so there would be no secrets, or surprises, it would come down to who wanted it more. The game was really intense, went back and forth, and in all in all was a great game between 2 quality teams. The atmosphere of the game was awesome, the stadium was packed, Vacallo brought bus/trains loads of fans to the game, and our fans were there as well in full force. Some of Vacallo's fans even dressed up as bland playing majorettes! And what BIG game do you know that doesn't have cross dressing men dance around during halftime?!! Even Michael Jordan's Bulls teams in the late 90's had guys like this at the game!! It may have been Dennis Rodman on the court instead of a fan, but... Needless to say, it was a great day for a big time basketball game. As I walked onto the court I saw my dad, and we gave each other the classic 'what's up'nod, you know the nod where it's not actually a nod, but a quick tilting of the bad backwards, it's a universal 'what's up' that transcends all languages, nationalities, and creeds. Kinda like giving someone the 'middle finger', you don't have to speak the same language to understand what it means! In any game that my dad has attended, I could always here him 'coaching from the stands'. Yelling things like 'block out', 'run the floor'or his and my all time favorite, 'USE YOUR PUMP FAKE'! Throughout high school and college no matter the venue, I could somehow here him, but before the game I thought, 'there's no way I'll be able to hear him today with all of the drums, and horns, whistles, etc.' But sure enough during timeouts, and dead balls, I heard good ol Lee! His words made me play that much harder, they always have, and I think it gave me a much needed boost to help my team.

By the tone of the last few sentences hopefully you can tell that my team won, other wise the summary would have been a little different, maybe something like this... Yeah, so we played Saturday, we lost, they beat us, then end! But, seeing as how I grabbed an offensive rebound put back with 9 seconds left to tie the game at 71-71 in regulation and sent the game into overtime, where the heroics of Maxime Jaquier would help us to a victory... the details of the game are bit longer! It's a great feeling to be crowned a champion, before coming to play in Switzerland, I had only won high school and AAU basketball tournaments, so it had been at least 8 years before I won something meaningful, and the only person I know who's had a drought longer than that is A.C. Green! But this championship is a little different than the others I won when I played for Olympic. My team doesn't have the biggest budget here in Switzerland, and we don't necessarily have the most talent in the league, so for us to achieve this victory, its like a point for the little guys. Just goes to show once again that the David's of the world can compete with the Goliath's. I just want to thank my teammates, TB, Vernard, Max, Jordan, Nenad, Val, Tone, Joel, Sevy Sev, Starvin Marvin, Simon, Rome, Goldie, and coaches Pat and Danny! It's an honor and privilege to work and play with you guys everyday! BUT the season is not over, and now we have to get ready for the playoffs, where we face another Eurobasket.com blogger Josh Almanson and his Nyon team. You can check out the highlights from the Swiss Cup game here, http://sport.rsi.ch/home/channels/sport/sport_on_line/2010/04/10-basket-coppa-ch. And don't forget to visit http://www.shoot2scorehoops.com and follow me on twitter @bigsloan32. You guys take it easy, and remember to 'Use your pump fake'!

SAM Massagno sign Ryan Wittman - by Luca Maffioli
SAM Basket Massagno sign Ryan Wittman (198-F) to replace injury player (cruciate ligament) Daniel Fitzgerald (206-F-84, college: Marquette). The American forward joins Massagno for playoff games and sunday he will play against SAV Vacallo. He played at Cornell and he appeared in 34 games this season and averaging 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 42.6%, FT: 82.6%. Wittman won Ivy League 2008, 2009, 2010 and he is Ivy League Player of the Year 2010.

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


CSU names Robert Moore as head basketball Coach - by UBA media
The UBA would like to extend a congratulations to Coach Robert Moore for being named Head coach of Columbus St..

Columbus St. Athletic Director Jay Sparks introduced Robert Moore as the schools sixth mens basketball coach on Friday afternoon. The announcement came at a press conference at the Frank G. Lumpkin Jr. Center on the CSU campus.

Moore replaces Doug Branson, who stepped down after four seasons in charge of the program. Branson posted a 50-62 mark in those four seasons.
With all the criteria, the responsibilities and the challenges that come with this job, no one fits the job that decribe him better than Robert Moore , said Sparks. Robert has all the resources to be successful here at Columbus State and we believe he will be outstanding for a long time to come.

Moore comes to Columbus State with 18 years of coaching experience - 10 of those in a head coaching role. He most recently has been head boys basketball coach at Brookstone School in Columbus for the last five years. Prior to his stint at Brookstone, Moore was head coach at Tift County High School in Tifton, Georgia. While at Tift County, Moore was named Georgia Sportswriters Association 5A Boys Coach of the Year after he led his team to the state championship game that season. He accumulated a record of 47-12 and won back-to-back region titles at the school.

Prior to Tift County, Moore served two seasons as head coach at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and set a school record for wins in a season with 21 in 2002. That record was the best mens basketball record at the school since 1982. Moore served as an assistant coach to Herbert Greene at Columbus State from 1994-2000 and was a part of two NCAA Division II Sweet Sixteen appearances, one Peach Belt Conference championship, and three PBC Tournament championships. During that span, CSU also appeared in the PBC Tournament title game five times and made three overall NCAA postseason appearances.

For me, this is a dream come true, said Moore. I have made several stops in my coaching career, but this is the one place I can call home. I am glad to be back.
I am committed to getting our students and the community involved in our program. To do that, you first have to win, but then you also have to be visible on campus and in the community. I am excited to get started and go out and get the best players we can for our program, he added.

Moore has also been selected to coach the Austin Knights in the UBA Playoff Classic.
It was an honor for the UBA to have such a great coach in our event, said UBA Commissioner J.D. Barnes. Its an honor for me as a college coach to be selected to coach so many great professional players.


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


Standings - BBL
BBL Standings
 1. Sheffield S. 30-5 
 2. Newcastle E. 30-5 
 3. Scottish R. 23-12 
 4. Cheshire J. 20-14 
 5. Leicester R. 20-15 
 6. Everton T. 20-15 
 7. MK Lions 18-18 
 8. Worthing T. 16-18 
 9. Worcester W. 16-18 
 10. Guildford H. 11-23 
 11. Plymouth R. 11-23 
 12. Essex Pirates 7-27 
 13. London C. 3-32 


Stats Leaders - BBL
Points Per Game
 Mike COOK
  Sheffield S.
  (193-G/F-84)
  Avg: 27
 1. Cook, Sheffield S.27.0 
 2. Bratton, Worthing.24.2 
 3. Wierzbicki, Leices.20.6 
 4. Patton, Sheffiel.20.4 
 5. Valencia, Plymouth R.20.1 
 6. Harrison, MK Lions20.1 
 7. Yanders, Scottish.19.8 
 8. Moore, Everton T.19.7 
 9. Middleton, Worceste.19.5 
 10. Chapman, Newcastl.19.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason JOHNSON
  Leicester R.
  (201-F/C-)
  Avg: 11
 1. Johnson, Leiceste.11.0 
 2. Janusauskas, London C.10.0 
 3. Toney, Sheffield S.9.9 
 4. Rodrigo, Essex P.9.2 
 5. Rowe, Plymouth R.8.8 
 6. Richard, Worthing.8.4 
 7. Gariba, London C.8.0 
 8. Young, Cheshire J.7.8 
 9. Disy, Worcester W.7.4 
 10. Valencia, Plymouth R.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Anthony MARTIN
  Plymouth R.
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Martin, Plymouth.7.5 
 2. Sapp, Scottish R.7.4 
 3. Moore, Everton T.6.2 
 4. Patton, Sheffiel.5.1 
 5. Yanders, Scottish.5.0 
 6. Drakeford, Guildfor.4.9 
 7. Jackson, Newcastl.4.7 
 8. Peterson, Cheshire.4.6 
 9. Westbrooks, Leices.4.6 
 10. Jivens, London C.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Roderick MIDDLETON
  Worcester W.
  (186-G/F-82)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Middleton, Worceste.2.7 
 2. Moore, Everton T.2.6 
 3. Normantas, Worceste.2.3 
 4. Babalola, Evert.2.3 
 5. Peterson, Cheshire.2.3 
 6. Gariba, London C.2.2 
 7. Sapp, Scottish R.2.2 
 8. Lasker, Plymouth.2.1 
 9. Martin, Plymouth.2.0 
 10. O''Reilly, Cheshire.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Kadiri RICHARD
  Worthing T.
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Richard, Worthing.2.3 
 2. Johnson, Leiceste.1.8 
 3. Toney, Sheffield S.1.2 
 4. Gorman, Sheffiel.0.9 
 5. Copeland, Scottish.0.9 
 6. Flournoy, Newcastl.0.9 
 7. Young, Cheshire J.0.9 
 8. Davis, Cheshire J.0.8 
 9. Hilleary, Plymouth R.0.8 
 10. Rodrigo, Essex P.0.8 


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


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
1. Cocodrilos 22-5
2. Marinos 22-6
3. Gaiteros 15-10
4. Panteras 14-14
5. Guaros 13-13
6. Guaiqueries 13-13
7. Trotamundos 13-15
8. Toros 7-19
9. Gigantes 7-19
10. Bucaneros 7-19


LPB 2010 - Week 9 (Apr. 13th): Cocodrilos, Guaiqueries and Gaiteros get the victories - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas defeated Trotamundos de Carabobo, Guaiqueries de Margarita showed no signs of trouble to defeat Bucaneros de La Guaira and Gaiteros del Zulia enjoyed a buzzard victory as visitors against Panteras de Miranda in the beginning of LPB's Week 9 of regular season action.

Guaiqueries de Margarita 92 - Bucaneros de La Guaira 77
Ciudad de La Asuncion Arena - La Asuncion, Nueva Esparta

Quarter by quarter
GUAI: 22-26-22-22= 92
BUC: 24-14-26-13= 77

Scorers
GUAI: Ricky Johns (193-G-85) 22 points, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 18 points and 5 assists, Evan Brock (204-F-84) 11 points and 11 rebounds, Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) 10 points and 6 rebounds, Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) 9 points, Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) 6 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 5 points, Kelvin Pena (193-G-81) 3 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 3 points, Cesar Silva (187-G/F-81) 3 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 2 points, Rene Farias (188-G-86) 0 points
BUC: Russell Carter (196-G-85) 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 steals, Kevin Young (206-C-84) 15 points and 10 rebounds, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 14 points, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 9 points and 6 rebounds, Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) 8 points, Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) 6 points, Aaron Nixon (188-G-83) 3 points, Dennis D'Adezzio (191-G-81) 0 points, Yonaiker Ecker (179-G-90) 0 points, Oswaldo Gonzalez (203-F/C-79) 0 points, Andrix Farias (194-F-90) 0 points, Jose Yovera (194-G/F-75) 0 points

Gaiteros del Zulia 78 - Panteras de Miranda 77
Jose Joaquin Carrillo Arena - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
PAN: 23-16-21-17= 77
GAI: 19-21-18-20= 78

Scorers
PAN: Kojo Mensah (185-G-85) 18 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals, Marcus Elliott (191-G-84) 17 points and 7 rebounds, Kimani Ffriend (211-C-77) 16 points and 7 rebounds, Michael Flores (192-G-85) 14 points, Roque Osorio (206-C-76) 4 points and 12 rebounds, Darwin Jaramillo (192-F-86) 3 points, Richard Mejias (187-G-78) 3 points, Elvis Burguillos (194-G/F-82) 2 points, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 3 points, Alfredo Rodriguez (195-F-85) 0 points, Julio Rausseo (200-F/C-77) 0 points
GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 28 points and 8 rebounds, Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-82) 12 points, David Reichel (202-F/G-84) 11 points, Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81) 10 points, Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) 8 points, Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85) 7 points and 7 rebounds, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 2 points, TomJim Colina (186-G-77) 0 points, Johan Pinero (183-G-76) 0 points, Juan Carlos Rodriguez (193-G-78) 0 points, Kervin Bracho (204-F/C-78) 0 points

Cocodrilos de Caracas 81 - Trotamundos de Carabobo 74
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
COC: 19-24-20-18= 81
TRO: 21-7-30-16= 74

Scorers
COC: Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 19 points, Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80) 19 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 12 points, Tephen Hamilton (201-F-78) 9 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 8 points, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 5 points and 15 rebounds, Windi Graterol (204-C-86) 4 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 3 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 2 points, Derson Santos (197-F-84) 0 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 0 points, Robert Palacios (185-G) 0 points
TRO: Martin Osimani (194-G-81) 14 points, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 14 points and 6 rebounds, Alex Galindo (198-F-85) 13 points and 8 rebounds, Richard Lugo (209-C-73) 12 points and 7 rebounds, Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84) 10 points, Pedro Brito (204-F/C-82) 9 points, Donell Taylor (198-G-82) 2 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 0 points, Javinger Vargas (206-C-90) 0 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 0 points, Leinert Zerpa (182-G-82) 0 points, Jorge Parra (206-C-84) 0 points

LPB 2010 - Week 8 (Apr. 10th): Cocodrilos shows no mercy, Toros, Panteras and Marinos win - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas played outstanding defense in the last 10 minutes of their match as visitors against Guaros de Lara in Barquisimeto and denied them the chance of winning at home and stopping the reptiles victorious run heading towards the playoffs.

Cocodrilos de Caracas 88 - Guaros de Lara 80
Domo Bolivariano - Barquisimeto, Lara

Quarter by quarter
GUA: 21-16-28-15= 80
COC: 24-12-25-27= 88

Scorers
GUA: Cheyne Gadson (192-G-80) 19 points, Heissler Guillent (186-G-86) 16 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists, Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76) 13 points and 13 rebounds, Jose Martinez (196-F-82) 9 points, Pablo Machado (207-C-77) 7 points, Sonys Reyes (181-G-86) 6 points, Heberth Bayona (210-C-78) 4 points, Carlos Morris (194-G-76) 4 points, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 2 points, Kervis Ramirez (190-G-78) 0 points, Erick Herrera (184-F-81) 0 points, Anthony Steward (200-F-78) 0 points
COC: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 21 points and 16 rebounds, Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 18 points and 6 rebounds, Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80) 18 points and 6 assists, Tephen Hamilton (201-F-78) 15 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 12 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 2 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 2 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 0 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 0 points, Windi Graterol (204-C-86) 0 points, Derson Santos (197-F-84) 0 points, Robert Palacios (185-G) 0 points

Marinos de Anzoategui 81 - Bucaneros de La Guaira 71
Luis Ramos Arena - Puerto La Cruz, Anzoategui

Quarter by quarter
MAR: 24-22-23-12= 81
BUC: 18-15-12-26= 71

Scorers
MAR: Michael Gale (193-G-82) 19 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 15 points and 9 rebounds, Donta Smith (201-G-83) 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 12 points, Hatila Passos (211-C-86) 8 points, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 7 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 2 points, Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) 2 points, Robert Yriarte (201-F-89) 2 points, Leonardo Cappare (186-G-80) 0 points, Juan Fontena (196-F-87) 0 points, Adan Reyes (183-G-83) 0 points
BUC: Russell Carter (196-G-85) 16 points and 6 rebounds, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 15 points and 12 rebounds, Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) 14 points and 6 rebounds, Kevin Young (206-C-84) 11 points and 10 rebounds, Dennis D'Adezzio (191-G-81) 6 points, Oswaldo Gonzalez (203-F/C-79) 4 points, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 3 points, Aaron Nixon (188-G-83) 2 points and 6 assists, Yonaiker Ecker (179-G-90) 0 points, Gustavo Calderin 0 points, Andrix Farias (194-F-90) 0 points, Jose Yovera (194-G/F-75) 0 points

Panteras de Miranda 81 - Trotamundos de Carabobo 80
Jose Joaquin Carrillo Arena - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
PAN: 14-17-23-27= 81
TRO: 18-26-16-20= 80

Scorers
PAN: Marcus Elliott (191-G-84) 22 points, Kojo Mensah (185-G-85) 20 points and 10 rebounds, Darwin Jaramillo (192-F-86) 12 points, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 8 points, Kimani Ffriend (211-C-77) 6 points and 6 rebounds, Michael Flores (192-G-85) 6 points, Roque Osorio (206-C-76) 4 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 3 points, Richard Mejias (187-G-78) 0 points, Edgar Sifontes (185-F-85) 0 points, Julio Rausseo (200-F/C-77) 0 points, Elvis Burguillos (194-G/F-82) 0 points
TRO: Martin Osimani (194-G-81) 19 points and 7 assists, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, Pedro Brito (204-F/C-82) 13 points, Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84) 12 points and 10 rebounds, Alex Galindo (198-F-85) 12 points, DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) 6 points and 9 rebounds, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 3 points, Leinert Zerpa (182-G-82) 0 points, Jorge Parra (206-C-84) 0 points, Alexander Morillo (G-92) 0 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 0 points, Javinger Vargas (206-C-90) 0 points

Toros de Aragua 92 - Gigantes de Guayana 83
Rafael Romero Bolivar Arena - Maracay, Aragua

Quarter by quarter
TOR: 34-21-13-24= 92
GIG: 26-26-20-11= 83

Scorers
TOR: Ryan Forehan-Kelly (197-F/G-80) 22 points, Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 steals, Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) 15 points and 11 rebounds, Brown Ernest (213-C-79) 12 points, David Cedeno (190-G-83) 6 points, Jose Silvera (183-G-92) 5 points, Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76) 4 points and 7 assists, Amber Marin (208-C-81) 4 points, Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 4 points, Rodrigo Rodriguez (198-F-80) 1 point, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 0 points, Peter Kvietek (203-C-77) 0 points
GIG: Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 29 points, Clarence Matthews (201-F-83) 27 points and 11 rebounds, Terquin Mott (203-F-74) 10 points and 11 rebounds, Omar Quintero (183-G-81) 9 points, Ludwing Irazabal (201-C/F-73) 3 points, Randy Vazquez (190-G-78) 3 points, Elvis Baez (189-G-89) 2 points, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 0 points, Daniel Macuare (190-F-84) 0 points, Jorge Diaz (195-F-77) 0 points, Marlon Patino (204-F/C-80) 0 points, Ruben Contreras (196-F-87) 0 points

LEB Standings
LEB Standings
East
 1. Saurios 9-3 
 2. Anzoategui 5-7 
 3. Acereros 4-8 
West
 1. Guardianes 7-4 
 2. Estrellas 6-8 
 3. La Guaira 5-7 


LPB 2010 - Week 9 (Apr. 15th): Guaros gets back at Toros, Marinos won in extra time - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Guaros de Lara took revenge from Toros de Aragua as they were able to obtain a series split in Maracay in a thrilling match, while Marinos de Anzoategui trailed back and won in extra time as visitors against the aching Gigantes de Guayana.

Marinos de Anzoategui 108 - Gigantes de Guayana 103 (2 ET)
Hermanas Gonzalez Arena - Puerto Ordaz, Bolivar

Quarter by quarter
GIG: 20-20-23-10-11= 103
MAR: 24-15-20-10-16= 108

Scorers
GIG: Clarence Matthews (201-F-83) 42 points, Omar Quintero (183-G-81) 16 points
MAR: Donta Smith (201-G-83) 26 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 19 points, Ron Howard (196-G/F-82) 16 points, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 16 points, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 15 points


Guaros de Lara 90 - Toros de Aragua 89
Rafael Romero Bolivar Arena - Maracay, Aragua

Quarter by quarter
TOR: 23-24-24-18= 89
GUA: 23-20-29-18= 90

Scorers
TOR: Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) 20 points, Ryan Forehan-Kelly (197-F/G-80) 13 points, Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76) 10 points and 5 steals, David Cedeno (190-G-83) 9 points, Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 8 points, Brown Ernest (213-C-79) 7 points and 7 rebounds, Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) 6 points, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 6 points, Amber Marin (208-C-81) 5 points and 7 rebounds, Peter Kvietek (203-C-77) 3 points and 8 rebounds, Jose Silvera (183-G-92) 2 points, Rodrigo Rodriguez (198-F-80) 0 points
GUA: Romel Beck (203-G/F-82) 21 points, Cheyne Gadson (192-G-80) 19 points and 5 assists, Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76) 17 points, Pablo Machado (207-C-77) 10 points, Kervis Ramirez (190-G-78) 10 points, Heberth Bayona (210-C-78) 8 points and 7 rebounds, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 5 points, Carlos Morris (194-G-76) 0 points, Erick Herrera (184-F-81) 0 points, Jose Martinez (196-F-82) 0 points, Sonys Reyes (181-G-86) 0 points, Leonardo Berroteran (192-F/G-81) 0 points


LPB 2010 - Week 9 (Apr. 14th): Cocodrilos sweeps, Toros wins, Bucaneros and Panteras got even - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas defeated Trotamundos de Carabobo, Guaiqueries de Margarita showed no signs of trouble to defeat Bucaneros de La Guaira and Gaiteros del Zulia enjoyed a buzzard victory as visitors against Panteras de Miranda in the beginning of LPB's Week 9 of regular season action.

Bucaneros de La Guaira 94 - Guaiqueries de Margarita 84
Ciudad de La Asuncion Arena - La Asuncion, Nueva Esparta

Quarter by quarter
GUAI: 19-20-23-22= 84
BUC: 19-24-21-29= 94

Scorers
GUAI: Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 23 points, Kelvin Pena (193-G-81) 18 points, Evan Brock (204-F-84) 15 points and 7 rebounds, Cesar Silva (187-G/F-81) 9 points and 5 assists, Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) 9 points, Ricky Johns (193-G-85) 4 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 4 points, Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) 2 points, Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) 0 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 0 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 0 points, Rene Farias (188-G-86) 0 points
BUC: Kevin Young (206-C-84) 23 points, 10 rebounds and 5 blocks, Dennis D'Adezzio (191-G-81) 17 points, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 15 points and 8 rebounds, Russell Carter (196-G-85) 13 points and 6 rebounds, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 9 points and 5 assists, Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) 8 points, Oswaldo Gonzalez (203-F/C-79) 4 points, Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) 3 points, William Funn (188-G-82) 2 points, Yonaiker Ecker (179-G-90) 0 points, Andrix Farias (194-F-90) 0 points, Jose Yovera (194-G/F-75) 0 points

Panteras de Miranda 99 - Gaiteros del Zulia 90
Jose Joaquin Carrillo Arena - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
PAN: 25-24-26-24= 99
GAI: 22-30-10-28= 90

Scorers
PAN: Kojo Mensah (185-G-85) 27 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists, Marcus Elliott (191-G-84) 21 points, Michael Flores (192-G-85) 18 points, Kimani Ffriend (211-C-77) 17 points and 11 rebounds, Elvis Burguillos (194-G/F-82) 6 points, Darwin Jaramillo (192-F-86) 5 points, Richard Mejias (187-G-78) 5 points, Roque Osorio (206-C-76) 0 points and 3 blocks, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 0 points, Deivis Ananguren (192-F-85) 0 points, Julio Rausseo (200-F/C-77) 0 points
GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 24 points, David Reichel (202-F/G-84) 12 points, Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85) 10 points, Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-82) 9 points, TomJim Colina (186-G-77) 8 points, Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81) 7 points, Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) 6 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 4 points, Juan Carlos Rodriguez (193-G-78) 4 points, Johan Pinero (183-G-76) 3 points, Kervin Bracho (204-F/C-78) 3 points

Cocodrilos de Caracas 89 - Trotamundos de Carabobo 83 (ET)
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
COC: 22-21-20-17-9= 89
TRO: 17-22-26-15-3= 83

Scorers
COC: Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 26 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 17 points and 16 rebounds, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 18 points, Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80) 16 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 8 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 2 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 2 points, Windi Graterol (204-C-86) 0 points, Derson Santos (197-F-84) 0 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 0 points, Robert Palacios (185-G) 0 points, Darwin Matos 0 points
TRO: Alex Galindo (198-F-85) 30 points and 11 rebounds, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 19 points and 6 rebounds, Richard Lugo (209-C-73) 12 points, Martin Osimani (194-G-81) 7 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, Pedro Brito (204-F/C-82) 5 points, Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84) 4 points, Donell Taylor (198-G-82) 4 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 2 points, Javinger Vargas (206-C-90) 0 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 0 points, Leinert Zerpa (182-G-82) 0 points, Jorge Parra (206-C-84) 0 points

Toros de Aragua 96 - Guaros de Lara 80
Rafael Romero Bolivar Arena - Maracay, Aragua

Quarter by quarter
TOR: 28-22-23-23= 96
GUA: 23-13-25-19= 80

Scorers
TOR: Amber Marin (208-C-81) 18 points and 7 rebounds, Ryan Forehan-Kelly (197-F/G-80) 18 points, Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) 17 points and 9 rebounds, Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) 13 points, David Cedeno (190-G-83) 11 points, Brown Ernest (213-C-79) 8 points, Peter Kvietek (203-C-77) 4 points, Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 3 points, Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76) 2 points and 5 assists, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 2 points, Jose Silvera (183-G-92) 0 points, Rodrigo Rodriguez (198-F-80) 0 points
GUA: Romel Beck (203-G/F-82) 24 points, Heberth Bayona (210-C-78) 17 points and 10 rebounds, Carlos Morris (194-G-76) 10 points, Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76) 8 points and 6 rebounds, Cheyne Gadson (192-G-80) 8 points, Pablo Machado (207-C-77) 7 points, Kervis Ramirez (190-G-78) 3 points, Erick Herrera (184-F-81) 3 points, Jose Martinez (196-F-82) 0 points, Sonys Reyes (181-G-86) 0 points, Leonardo Berroteran (192-F/G-81) 0 points, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 0 points

LPB 2010 - Week 8 (Apr. 11th): Marinos, Panteras and Toros did it again - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Marinos de Anzoategui, Panteras de Miranda and Toros de Aragua completed did it again on Sunday and won for the second straight night as hosts to earn important sweeps. Marinos is trailing Cocodrilos de Caracas for the LPB 2010 regular season standings lead, while Panteras is fighting in the middle and Toros is trying to make a spectacular comeback from the bottom.

Marinos de Anzoategui 104 - Bucaneros de La Guaira 81
Luis Ramos Arena - Puerto La Cruz, Anzoategui

Quarter by quarter
MAR: 29-28-16-31= 104
BUC: 26-22-18-15= 81

Scorers
MAR: Donta Smith (201-G-83) 23 points and 6 rebounds, Michael Gale (193-G-82) 22 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 21 points and 9 rebounds, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 14 points, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 10 points and 5 assists, Hatila Passos (211-C-86) 5 points, Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) 3 points, Adan Reyes (183-G-83) 3 points, Dennison Rodriguez (202-F-89) 3 points, Robert Yriarte (201-F-89) 0 points, Leonardo Cappare (186-G-80) 0 points, Juan Fontena (196-F-87) 0 points
BUC: Russell Carter (196-G-85) 19 points and 5 steals, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 15 points, Kevin Young (206-C-84) 12 points and 6 rebounds, Dennis D'Adezzio (191-G-81) 9 points, Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) 8 points, Yonaiker Ecker (179-G-90) 8 points and 6 rebounds, Oswaldo Gonzalez (203-F/C-79) 4 points, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 2 points, Gustavo Calderin 2 points, Andrix Farias (194-F-90) 2 points, Aaron Nixon (188-G-83) 0 points, Jose Yovera (194-G/F-75) 0 points

Panteras de Miranda 93 - Trotamundos de Carabobo 88 (3 ET)
Jose Joaquin Carrillo Arena - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
PAN: 12-18-17-16-8-13-9= 93
TRO: 14-17-17-15-8-13-4= 88

Scorers
PAN: Marcus Elliott (191-G-84) 28 points and 9 rebounds, Kojo Mensah (185-G-85) 21 points, 12 rebounds and 9 assists, Kimani Ffriend (211-C-77) 14 points and 15 rebounds, Michael Flores (192-G-85) 13 points, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 7 points and 7 rebounds, Darwin Jaramillo (192-F-86) 5 points and 6 rebounds, Roque Osorio (206-C-76) 3 points and 11 rebounds, Elvis Burguillos (194-G/F-82) 2 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 3 points, Richard Mejias (187-G-78) 0 points, Edgar Sifontes (185-F-85) 0 points, Julio Rausseo (200-F/C-77) 0 points
TRO: Martin Osimani (194-G-81) 22 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists, DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) 17 points, 16 rebounds and 4 blocks, Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84) 16 points and 11 rebounds, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 13 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 8 points, Alex Galindo (198-F-85) 6 points, Pedro Brito (204-F/C-82) 3 points, Javinger Vargas (206-C-90) 2 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 1 point, Leinert Zerpa (182-G-82) 0 points, Jorge Parra (206-C-84) 0 points, Alexander Morillo (G-92) 0 points

Toros de Aragua 91 - Gigantes de Guayana 79
Rafael Romero Bolivar Arena - Maracay, Aragua

Quarter by quarter
TOR: 26-25-22-18= 91
GIG: 17-19-20-23= 79

Scorers
TOR: Ryan Forehan-Kelly (197-F/G-80) 20 points and 7 rebounds, Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) 15 points, Brown Ernest (213-C-79) 12 points, Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76) 10 points and 7 assists, Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 9 points, Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) 8 points, Amber Marin (208-C-81) 7 points and 6 rebounds, Jose Silvera (183-G-92) 4 points, David Cedeno (190-G-83) 3 points, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 3 points, Rodrigo Rodriguez (198-F-80) 0 points, Peter Kvietek (203-C-77) 0 points
GIG: Jamal Johnson (201-F-81) 13 points and 9 rebounds, Clarence Matthews (201-F-83) 13 points, Elvis Baez (189-G-89) 13 points, Ludwing Irazabal (201-C/F-73) 10 points, Marlon Patino (204-F/C-80) 7 points, Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) 6 points, Randy Vazquez (190-G-78) 6 points, Omar Quintero (183-G-81) 5 points, Daniel Macuare (190-F-84) 4 points, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 2 points, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 0 points, Jorge Diaz (195-F-77) 0 points

LPB announces rosters for the 2010 All-Star Game and the first LEB All-Future Stars Game - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The main board of Liga Profesional de Baloncesto announced the rosters for both the 2010 LPB All-Star Game, reaching its 33rd edition and the first edition of LEB's All-Future Stars Game. Both matches will be played at Naciones Unidas Park of Caracas on April 19th.

The LPB All-Star Game involves the Venezuelan Stars and the Imported Stars. Nestor Salazar, of Cocodrilos de Caracas, will coach the Venezuelan team and Sergio Rouco, of Marinos de Anzoategui, will take charge of the Imported team.

ROSTERS

VENEZUELAN STARS
Heissler Guillent (186-G-86), of Guaros de Lara
Gregory Vargas (182-G-86), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Jesus Centeno (190-G-85), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Diego Guevara (184-G-77), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Hector Romero (202-F-80), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85), of Gaiteros del Zulia
Juan Herrera (197-F-81), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Axiers Sucre (198-F-78), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Tulio Cobos (196-F-86), of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Richard Lugo (209-C-73), of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Roque Osorio (206-C-76), of Panteras de Miranda
Coach: Nestor Salazar, of Cocodrilos de Caracas

IMPORTED STARS
Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72), of Gaiteros del Zulia
Kojo Mensah (185-G-85), of Panteras de Miranda
Marcus Elliott (191-G-84), of Panteras de Miranda
Alex Galindo (198-F-85), of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Ryan Forehan-Kelly (197-F/G-80), of Toros de Aragua
David Reichel (202-F/G-84), of Gaiteros del Zulia
Donta Smith (201-G-83), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Clarence Matthews (201-F-83), of Gigantes de Guayana
Kevin Young (206-C-84), Bucaneros de La Guaira
Evan Brock (204-F-84), of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Brown Ernest (213-C-79), of Toros de Aragua
Coach: Sergio Rouco , of Marinos de Anzoategui

The LEB's All-Future Star Game, involves a team from the West-Central Conference against a team of the East-Central Conference. The first team will be coached by Manuel Alfonso, of Guardianes de Lara and the second team will be coached by Ibsen Castrillo, of Saurios de Caracas

ROSTERS

WEST-CENTRAL CONFERENCE
Josmar Acevedo (196-F-90), of Guardianes de Lara
Graddy Osorio (193-F-87), of Guardianes de Lara
Freddy Toro (201-F-88), of Guardianes de Lara
Alexander Melendez, of Guardianes de Lara
Jesus Tovar (183-G-90), of Estrellas de Aragua
Deyluis Herrera, of Estrellas de Aragua
Harold Goatache (198-F-88), of Estrellas de Aragua
Luis Navarro (192-F-92), of Estrellas de Aragua
Leonardo Betancourt (C-92), of La Guaira
Yonaiker Ecker (179-G-90), of La Guaira
Elder Jimenez (186-G-91), of La Guaira
Gustavo Calderin, of La Guaira
Coach: Manuel Alfonso , of Guardianes de Lara

EAST-CENTRAL CONFERENCE
Nestor Moran (178-G-87), of Acereros de Guayana
Lenin Lopez (198-F-91), of Acereros de Guayana
Elvis Baez (189-G-89), of Acereros de Guayana
Antonio Sucre (193-F-83), of Acereros de Guayana
Robert Yriarte (201-F-89), of TNT Anzoategui
Juan Fontena (196-F-87), of TNT Anzoategui
Junior Martinez (C-92), of TNT Anzoategui
Dennison Rodriguez (202-F-89), of TNT Anzoategui
Darwin Matos, of Saurios de Caracas
Cesar Garcia (175-G-89), of Saurios de Caracas
Miguel Rivas (182-G-90), of Saurios de Caracas
Jhoyfer Diaz (196-F-87), of Saurios de Caracas
Coach: Ibsen Castrillo of Saurios de Caracas

LPB 2010 - News: Bayona and Vargas replace Romero and Guillent in All-Star Game - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Center Heberth Bayona (210-C-78), of Guaros de Lara and shooting guard Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82), of Trotamundos de Carabobo, were called up by the main board of LPB to replace injured players in the Venezuelan Stars roster for the 2010 LPB All-Star Game, to be played on April 19th at Naciones Unidas Park of Caracas.

Bayona comes in for Hector Romero (202-F-80), of Marinos de Anzoategui, while Vargas will do so to replace Heissler Guillent (186-G-86), who's got a back injury but is close to getting recovered. 'I really wanted to play, but after talking about it with the general management, we decided not to play there and get ready for the series against Trotamundos', said Guillent, who was eager to play in his hometown in front of relatives and friends.

With these changes, the rosters will look like this:

ROSTERS

VENEZUELAN STARS
Jose Vargas of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Gregory Vargas (182-G-86), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Jesus Centeno (190-G-85), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Diego Guevara (184-G-77), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Heberth Bayona (210-C-78), of Guaros de Lara
Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85), of Gaiteros del Zulia
Juan Herrera (197-F-81), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Axiers Sucre (198-F-78), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Tulio Cobos (196-F-86), of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Richard Lugo (209-C-73), of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Roque Osorio (206-C-76), of Panteras de Miranda
Coach: Nestor Salazar, of Cocodrilos de Caracas

IMPORTED STARS
Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72), of Gaiteros del Zulia
Kojo Mensah (185-G-85), of Panteras de Miranda
Marcus Elliott (191-G-84), of Panteras de Miranda
Alex Galindo (198-F-85), of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Ryan Forehan-Kelly (197-F/G-80), of Toros de Aragua
David Reichel (202-F/G-84), of Gaiteros del Zulia
Donta Smith (201-G-83), of Marinos de Anzoategui
Clarence Matthews (201-F-83), of Gigantes de Guayana
Kevin Young (206-C-84), Bucaneros de La Guaira
Evan Brock (204-F-84), of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81), of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Brown Ernest (213-C-79), of Toros de Aragua
Coach: Sergio Rouco , of Marinos de Anzoategui

LPB 2010 - Transactions: Tate, Funes and Elliott join Venezuela's LPB action - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Gaiteros del Zulia announced the arrival of Jermaine Tate (206-C-76), who played for them back in 2005, while Trotamundos de Carabobo acquired Argentinian Fernando Funes (193-G-83) and Cocodrilos de Caracas brought back Carl Elliott (193-G-83), all in the attempt of improving their rosters heading towards the end of the regular season.

Tate could send David Reichel (202-F/G-84) to the reserve in Gaiteros to be tested in the 4-5 spot, while Funes might replace another recent hiring, Donell Taylor (198-G-82), in Trotamundos. Elliott will share a position with Tephen Hamilton (201-F-78) in the roster of Cocodrilos.

Other recent arrivals to the league are William Funn (188-G-82) and Russell Carter (196-G-85) with Bucaneros de La Guaira, Jamal Johnson (201-F-81) with Gigantes de Guayana, Romel Beck (203-G/F-82), Cheyne Gadson (192-G-80) and Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76) with Guaros de Lara, Ron Howard (196-G/F-82) with Marinos de Anzoategui, Christopher Jackson (208-C-81) in Guaiqueries de Margarita, Kimani Ffriend (211-C-77) in Panteras de Miranda, Ryan Forehan-Kelly (197-F/G-80) and Brown Ernest (213-C-79) in Toros de Aragua.



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Women News

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Dandenong Jayco Rangers land forward/centre Ellie Manou - by Eurobasket News
Dandenong Jayco Rangers announced Wednesday another key signing for the 2010/11 season with former Sydney Uni Flames power forward/centre Ellie Manou (191-F-89, college: Oregon) agreeing to become a Ranger.

Dandenong Jayco Rangers CEO Graeme Allen says the signing of Manou is another coup for the Rangers.

We are delighted Ellie has agreed to become a Jayco Ranger and it is another piece in the puzzle as we work hard to re-establish our team as a power in the WNBL said Allen.

Manous signing follows that of Canberra and Australian Opals player Abby Bishop who signed last week.

Dandenong Jayco Rangers Head Coach Mark Wright expects big things from Manou.

Ellie is a veryexciting young talent and has all the hallmarks of being a real star of the future and we are very pleased Ellie has agreed to play for the Dandenong Jayco Rangers. We met with Ellie last week and she was very impressive person who will fit well into our new team going forward said Wright.

Manou is keen to join the group.

'I am very excited about playing for a rebuilding Dandenong Rangers team and working with new coaches Mark Wright and Cheryl Chambers, Manou said.

Courtesy of The Dandenong Jayco Rangers (www.dandenongbasketball.com.au)


Chambers named SEABL Coach of the Month - by Eurobasket News
New Dandenong Rangers Assistant Coach Cheryl Chambers is keeping busy in the WNBL offseason; she was named SEABL Coach of the Month for March.

Chambers has had a successful start to her SEABL coaching career by leading the Kilsyth Lady Cobras to a 3-0 start, including an impressive road win over local rival Knox in Round 2.

The two-time WNBL Coach of the Year had a busy off-season putting together the team after only having three players return from 2009.

Chambers will return to the WNBL in the 2010/11 season working with Rangers Head Coach Mark White to lead Dandenong.

Courtesy of Kilsyth Basketball


*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE - Women  


TEO and Lemminkainen advance to the Final - by Eurobasket News
TEO and Lemminkainen will face each other in Baltic League Final. Lithuanian TEO smashed Minsk 2006 in the second Semifinal of Baltic League. The best team of the League of all the years overwhelmed the team from Belarus 93:40.
TEO opened the game with 22-13, but pushed the tempo later in the half. In the second period Minsk could score only 5 points and failed to catch up. TEO grabbed 48:18 lead at the halftime as it became clear about the winner after 20 minutes. TEO did not stop and continued to dominate the court in the second half as well. They produced 29-12 in the third frame to shock the opponents. With 16-10 Lithuanian favorite finished the game and advanced to the Final.
Lindsey Harding (173-G-84, college: Duke) paced all the winners with 20 points and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: Va Commonwealth) nailed 17. Indre Dudenaite (184-F-88) delivered 13, while Giedre Paugaite added 12. Ignatovich responded with 15 points in the losing effort. Zubrytskaya and Shcharbakova followed her with 6 points apiece.
Lemminkainen earned the spot in the Baltic League championship game. The Lithuanian team held off Berezina in a thrilling semifinal clash tonight. The teams met in Klaipeda and Lemminkainen celebrated a narrow win at the end. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) accounted for 29 points to pace Lemminkainen.
Lemminkainen got to an aggressive start. They outscored the Belarusian side 20:16 in the opening frame. The second frame also belonged to Lemminkainen. The Lithunian team accumulated an 11-point buffer at halftime. But Berezina turned the tables in the second half. The visitors cut the margin at just 5-point mark with one quarter remaining. Berezina continued to claw their way back. They axed the margin to minimum in the fourth term but could not capitalize. Lemminkainen escaped with a narrow victory in the dying seconds. Rita Milieskiene (175-G-78) scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds for Lemminkainen. Egle Siksniute (196-F/C-91) netted 7 points in the win. Viktoria Hasper (193-C-88) responded with 27 points and 12 boards for Berezina. Alla Muravskaya had 18 points and 7 caroms in the loss.

TEO -Minsk 2006 93:40
TEO: Lindsey Harding 20, Quanitra Hollingsworth 17, Indre Dudenaite 13
Minsk 2006: Ignatovich 15, Zubrytskaya 6, Shcharbakova 6

Lemminkainen - Berezina 67:66
Lemminkainen: Marina Solopova 29, Rita Milieskiene 14, Egle Siksniute 7
Berezina: Viktoria Hasper 27+12 boards, Alla Muravskaya 18


*****************************************************
  BELARUS - Women  


TEO reach BWBL Final - by Eurobasket News
TEO -Minsk 2006 93 :40

Lithuanian TEO smashed Minsk 2006 in the second Semifinal of Baltic League. The best team of the League of all the years overwhelmed the team from Belarus 93:40.
TEO opened the game with 22-13, but pushed the tempo later in the half. In the second period Minsk could score only 5 points and failed to catch up. TEO grabbed 48:18 lead at the halftime as it became clear about the winner after 20 minutes. TEO did not stop and continued to dominate the court in the second half as well. They produced 29-12 in the third frame to shock the opponents. With 16-10 Lithuanian favorite finished the game and advanced to the Final.
Lindsey Harding (173-G-84, college: Duke) paced all the winners with 20 points and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: Va Commonwealth) nailed 17. Indre Dudenaite (184-F-88) delivered 13, while Giedre Paugaite added 12. Ignatovich responded with 15 points in the losing effort. Alesia Zubrytskaya (174-G-81) and Shcharbakova followed her with 6 points apiece.
The Final game will be played between TEO and Lemminkainen. It is clear again that the trophy will stay at Lithuania.

TEO: Lindsey Harding 20, Quanitra Hollingsworth 17, Indre Dudenaite 13
Minsk 2006: Ignatovich 15, Alesia Zubrytskaya 6, Shcharbakova 6


Lemminkainen edge Berezina to advance into Baltic League Final - by Eurobasket News
Lemminkainen - Berezina 67:66
Lemminkainen earned the spot in the Baltic League championship game. The Lithuanian team held off Berezina in a thrilling semifinal clash tonight. The teams met in Klaipeda and Lemminkainen celebrated a narrow win at the end. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) accounted for 29 points to pace Lemminkainen.
Lemminkainen got to an aggressive start. They outscored the Belarusian side 20:16 in the opening frame. The second frame also belonged to Lemminkainen. The Lithunian team accumulated an 11-point buffer at halftime. But Berezina turned the tables in the second half. The visitors cut the margin at just 5-point mark with one quarter remaining. Berezina continued to claw their way back. They axed the margin to minimum in the fourth term but could not capitalize. Lemminkainen escaped with a narrow victory in the dying seconds. Rita Milieskiene (175-G-78) scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds for Lemminkainen. Egle Siksniute (196-F/C-91) netted 7 points in the win. Viktoria Hasper (193-C-88) responded with 27 points and 12 boards for Berezina. Alla Muravskaya (185-F-85) had 18 points and 7 caroms in the loss.

Lemminkainen: Marina Solopova 29, Rita Milieskiene 14, Egle Siksniute 7
Berezina: Viktoria Hasper 27+12 boards, Alla Muravskaya 18


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


Horsholm wins the Final opener - by Eurobasket News
Horsholm beat Aabyhoj 50:44 in the Final opener. Both teams proved the ambitions for the title as Horsholm needed 15-10 in the third period to win the first game.
Anne Thorius (179-G-77, college: Michigan) started with the three and then her team. Horsholm held the lead at the end of the period although trailed in the middle of it. The first period ends with a close gap for the guests at 14:13. Both teams scored 12 points each in the second period to go to the break at 26:25 advantage for the guests. Aabyhoj scored some quick baskets in the beginning of the third quarter, while a 9-0 run allowed the guests to take 41:35. The third quarter became decisive in the game as the guests took 15-10 in it and never looked behind after. The teams again tied the fourth period at 9-9 that brought the first victory for Horsholm. Anne Thorius top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Heather Stec (188-F-86) nailed 14 and Katrine Hounsgaard (166-G-84) added 8. Emilie Hesseldal (185-F/C-90) responded with 20 points and 11 rebounds in the losing effort. Krogh brought 12, while Mannemar notched 6. Game 2 is scheduled for April 17th.


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


Female NT unveiled - by Jaime Arevalo
Veteran coach Ricardo Renderos coaches the El Salvador Female National Team in the 9th edition of the Central American Games, hosted by Panama. The full teami roster is as follows:

SAMIA DAABOUD
VERONICA SOSA
KRYSSIA URIAS
KENIA CAMPOS
LORENA SIMON
VANESSA HEREDIA
JESSICA BAUTISTA
GLADIS MARAVILLA
MONICA CALDERON
SILVIA MARTINEZ
RUTH VALLE
DANIELA JUBIS

Head Coach Ricardo Renderos
Ass. Coach Domingo Torres

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


Audentes win Meistriliiga Bronze - by Eurobasket News
Audentes clinched the third position at the Meistriliiga championship. They swept the consolation final series against Tartu Ulikool. Audentes sealed the victory in the second game. They claimed a 94:85 win and celebrate the Bronze. Janett Perv (177-91) knocked down 27 points and grabbed 15 rebounds for the winners.
Audentes led from start to finish. They outscored their oponents 24:18 in the starting frame. The hosts continued to pile up the advantage. Audentes earned a 15-point lead at the big break. Tartu Ulikool however did not surrender and cut the margin to just five points at the final break. Audentes fired 29 points in the final period and ran away for the victory. Maaja Bratka (186-C-92) accounted for 25 points and 13 rebounds in the victory. Maia Bratka (184-F-92) added 16 points for Audentes. Liisi Sokman (168-G-88) answered with 27 points for Tartu Ulikool. Liisa Juul (174-G-87) had 20 points in the losing effort.


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  FINLAND - Women  


D1 Round: 4 (Finals) - by Eurobasket News
PeKa - Catz 82-80
Jutta Richter (174-G-87) knocked down a three-pointer with four seconds remaining in regulation as PeKa snatched a narrow win over Catz. The victory allowed PeKa to stay alive in the Finals. Lisa Lee (183-F-84, college: Charleston) scored 22 points, issued 10 assists and grabbed 6 boards to pace the hosts. Porchia Green added 20 points for the winning side. Reetta Piipari responded with 28 points and 7 assists for Catz. Elisa Bue had 18 points and 10 boards in the loss.


PeKa won second time - by Esko Saarinen
Finnish Champoion is not yet known, as on the fourth match between PeKa (Kotka) and Catz (Lappeenranta) PeKa won with 82-80. That means that on Sunday the teams will meet again and that is the match where the champion is known. They will play as long that the winner is known. Friday match in Kotka was all the time led by Catz, but till the end PeKa came closer and closer. First on 30 seconds left PeKa (Porcia Green) had a 3-point score and came was 77-77. Then Lotta Richer had to free shoots succesfully and Reetta Piipari (Catz) a 3-point. All the finish was on 4 seconds left as young player Lotta Richter had 3-pointer. That made the numbers 82-80. Best player were from Catz side Reetta Piipari, Elisa Bue (USA) and Elena Resetko (RUS) and on PeKas siode Lisa Lee and Porchia Green (USA and Taru Tuukkanen.

Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Lisa LEE
  PeKa
  (183-F-84)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Lee, PeKa21.5 
 2. Freeman, S-Hameen.21.2 
 3. Haynes, FoA20.5 
 4. Bailey, FoA18.4 
 5. Robinson, Huima17.7 
 6. Johnson, HoNsU16.8 
 7. Pounds, HoNsU16.5 
 8. Freshour, S-Hameen.16.3 
 9. Pellom, FoA15.9 
 10. Tuukkanen, PeKa15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kenya ROBINSON
  Huima
  (182-C-70)
  Avg: 13.6
 1. Robinson, Huima13.6 
 2. Freeman, S-Hameen.12.4 
 3. Johnson, HoNsU12.1 
 4. Laaksonen, Espoo T.10.9 
 5. Solovyeva, Catz10.2 
 6. Moua, Kerava ET10.1 
 7. Freshour, S-Hameen.9.7 
 8. Tuukkanen, PeKa9.5 
 9. Glover, Huima9.3 
 10. Jahilo, FoA9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Danyelle SNELGRO
  HoNsU
  (165-G-87)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Snelgro, HoNsU3.2 
 2. Kesanen, Catz3.0 
 3. Robinson, Huima2.9 
 4. Green, PeKa2.6 
 5. Pellom, FoA2.5 
 6. Piipari, Catz2.5 
 7. Small, Huima2.5 
 8. Bailey, FoA2.4 
 9. Pounds, HoNsU2.3 
 10. Haynes, FoA2.3 
Steals Per Game
 Lisa LEE
  PeKa
  (183-F-84)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Lee, PeKa3.2 
 2. Pounds, HoNsU3.2 
 3. Snelgro, HoNsU2.8 
 4. Allen, Espoo Team2.8 
 5. Pellom, FoA2.6 
 6. Green, PeKa2.5 
 7. Bailey, FoA2.3 
 8. Johnson, HoNsU2.3 
 9. Robinson, Huima2.0 
 10. Moua, Espoo Team2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Whitney ALLEN
  Espoo Team
  (180-F-85)
  Avg: 0.5
 1. Allen, Espoo Team0.5 
 2. Kesanen, S-Hameen.0.5 
 3. Bailey, FoA0.5 
 4. Jones, PeKa0.5 
 5. Pellom, FoA0.5 
 6. Haynes, FoA0.5 
 7. Jahilo, FoA0.5 
 8. Koukkari, HoNsU0.4 
 9. Lehtoranta, PeKa0.4 
 10. Robinson, Huima0.4 


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  FRANCE - Women  


Lenae Williams claims French LFB weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced American Lenae Williams (186-F-79), agency: SJMR) had an amazing evening in the last round for USO Mondeville and that's her to receive a 'Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26'.
The 31-year old forward had the game-high 30 points adding seven rebounds for her team's victory, helping them to crush Tarbes (#1, 23-3) with 17-point margin 84-67. With this victory Mondeville reached 4th position in French LFB and booked a spot for the Playoff Semifinals. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. In the team's last game Williams had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range and got six three-pointers out of 10 attempts. She has many years of experience at Mondeville, through which he has constantly improved. De Paul University graduate is in league's top in points (2nd best: 15.9ppg), 53.5% FGP and48.2% from behind 3-point line.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old Senegalese Bineta Diouf (186-C/F-79)) of Basket Landes. Diouf impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 16 points and 17 rebounds. She led Landes to comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Armentieres (#13, 6-20) 68-48. Landes finished regular season as No.9 with 10-16 score and they will continue in Play-out. Diouf is one of the most experienced players at Landes and has a reputation of the team's most reliable player.

The third best performed player last round was British Julie Anne Page (188-F/C-83), agency: LBM Management) of Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence. Page scored 20 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). She was a key player of Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence, leading her team to a 75-62 easy win against winnigless Limoges (#14, 0-26). She has a great season in France. In 20 games, Page made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.0ppg (9th best). Her Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence finished regular season as No.11 with 8-18 score and they will be transferred to Play-out.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tiffany Stansbury (191-F/C-83) of Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence - 14 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Erica Davis (191-C-85) of Limoges - 15 points and 14 rebounds
6. Temeka Johnson (160-G-82) of Mondeville - 17 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Emmeline Ndongue (190-C-83) of Bourges - 15 points and 9 rebounds
8. Lindsay Taylor (203-C-81) of Nantes - 13 points and 10 rebounds
9. Melanie Plust (173-G-89) of Nantes - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Julie Barennes (183-F-86) of Landes - 13 points, 6 rebounds and 1 assist

LFB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Lindsay TAYLOR
  Nantes
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 16.1
 1. Taylor, Nantes16.1 
 2. Williams, Mondeville15.9 
 3. Houston, Tarbes15.3 
 4. Akonga Nsimb., Arr.15.1 
 5. Yacoubou-D., Tarbes14.8 
 6. Gomis, Villeneuve14.5 
 7. Stansbury, Aix-en-P.14.5 
 8. Berezhynska, Monde.14.0 
 9. Page, Aix-en-Prov.14.0 
 10. Humphrey, Calais14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Agathe NNINDJEM
  Toulouse
  (192-C-80)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Nnindjem, Toulouse9.6 
 2. Sy, Nantes8.8 
 3. Neaves, Calais8.4 
 4. Stansbury, Aix-en-P.8.1 
 5. Bonnan, Mondeville8.1 
 6. Davis, Limoges8.0 
 7. Ivancevic, Aix-en-P.7.9 
 8. Yacoubou-D., Tarbes7.8 
 9. Comfort, Villeneuve7.8 
 10. Humphrey, Calais7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Kathleen MACLEOD
  Nantes
  (167-G-86)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Macleod, Nantes6.4 
 2. Aubert, Mondeville5.6 
 3. Mitchell, Arras5.5 
 4. Lepron, Tarbes4.8 
 5. Johnson, Mondeville4.6 
 6. Tanqueray, Villeneuve4.6 
 7. Spatharou, Limoges4.2 
 8. Cousseins, Calais3.8 
 9. Hermouet, Toulouse3.4 
 10. Das Neves, Aix-en-P.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Virginie BREMONT
  Armentieres
  (178-G-89)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Bremont, Armentie.2.5 
 2. Gomis, Arras2.4 
 3. Aubert, Mondeville2.4 
 4. Michel, Arras2.4 
 5. Parham, Landes2.3 
 6. Hermouet, Toulouse2.1 
 7. Skrela, Lattes M.2.0 
 8. Mitchell, Arras2.0 
 9. Spatharou, Limoges1.8 
 10. Whittington, Lattes M.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Agathe NNINDJEM
  Toulouse
  (192-C-80)
  Avg: 0.7
 1. Nnindjem, Toulouse0.7 
 2. Metcalf, Toulouse0.7 
 3. Page, Aix-en-Prov.0.7 
 4. Stansbury, Aix-en-P.0.6 
 5. Gueye, Limoges0.6 
 6. Tayeau, Limoges0.6 
 7. Fikiel, Toulouse0.6 
 8. Maurice, Toulouse0.5 
 9. Parham, Landes0.5 
 10. Jomby, Limoges0.5 


*****************************************************
  GERMANY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Carmen GUZMAN
  Halle
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 21.8
 1. Guzman, Leipzig21.8 
 2. Pierce, Rhein MB19.5 
 3. Guzman, Halle17.8 
 4. Bender, Halle17.0 
 5. Paunovic, Freiburg17.0 
 6. Hayes, Wasserburg16.7 
 7. Terzic, Herner16.2 
 8. Danckert, Donau.15.7 
 9. Greunke, Rhein MB15.2 
 10. Sanders, Leipzig14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sabrina SCOTT
  Wolfenbuettel
  (190-C-81)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Scott, Wolfenbu.12.2 
 2. Mircheva, Donau.10.5 
 3. Tracey, Freiburg9.6 
 4. Triggs, Marburg8.9 
 5. Almind, Oberhausen8.5 
 6. Greunke, Rhein MB8.1 
 7. Sanders, Leipzig7.9 
 8. Thompson, Rhein MB7.8 
 9. Danckert, Donau.7.7 
 10. Wilson, Donau-Ries7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Amanda REGO
  Halle
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Rego, Halle5.4 
 2. Bar, Saarlouis3.5 
 3. Dluzyk, Donau-Ries3.4 
 4. Guzman, Halle3.0 
 5. Mersch, Oberhausen2.8 
 6. O''Rourke, Herner2.7 
 7. Davidson, Marburg2.7 
 8. Greunke, Rhein MB2.6 
 9. Hightower, Herner2.6 
 10. Pop, Wasserburg2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Amanda REGO
  Halle
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Rego, Halle3.9 
 2. Guzman, Leipzig3.6 
 3. Sanders, Leipzig3.5 
 4. Bar, Saarlouis3.1 
 5. Tracey, Freiburg2.9 
 6. Austmann, Oberh.2.4 
 7. Richter, Wasse.2.4 
 8. Guzman, Halle2.3 
 9. Hayes, Freiburg2.3 
 10. O''Rourke, Herner2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Annika DANCKERT
  Donau-Ries
  (182-F-81)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Danckert, Donau.1.2 
 2. Bar, Saarlouis1.2 
 3. Bingham, Saarlouis1.0 
 4. Tracey, Freiburg1.0 
 5. Triggs, Marburg1.0 
 6. Damm, Halle0.9 
 7. Diaz, Leipzig0.9 
 8. Thompson, Rhein MB0.8 
 9. Almind, Oberhausen0.8 
 10. Smith, Saarlouis0.8 


DBBL Round: 2 (Semi-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Marburg - Saarlouis 68-82
Saarlouis advanced to the Finals beating Marburg 82:68 in Game 2. Trailing 5 points at the halftime, the winner of the Regulsr Season produced 22-9 in the third period to win the game. Kelly Brugman (185-F/C-89) led the way with 19 points and Manakova Petra and Smith Tyresa added 16 apiece. Triggs Sherida nailed 17 for the hosts.

Freiburg - Wasserburg 48-65
Wasserburg clinched the Final spot defeating Freiburg 68:45. Jana Furkova (185-C/F-84) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Thoresen Rebecca and Tatham Tamara posted 13 each. Paunovic Mirna scored 15 points in the losing effort.


*****************************************************
  HUNGARY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Hajdana RADUNOVIC
  SEAT Lami
  (192-F/C-78)
  Avg: 16
 1. Radunovic, SEAT L.16.0 
 2. Vajda, MiZo Pecs15.9 
 3. Crasnoscioc, ZTE15.9 
 4. Budimir, Bajai NKK15.2 
 5. Balint, Atomeromu14.9 
 6. Sipaviciute, Szeged14.8 
 7. Ohlde, MiZo Pecs14.8 
 8. Szlimak, BSE14.7 
 9. Holt, MKB Eurol.14.6 
 10. Horti, MKB Eurol.14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jelena BUDIMIR
  Bajai NKK
  (192-C/F-85)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Budimir, Bajai NKK8.5 
 2. Zherzherunov., Sze.7.3 
 3. Vajda, MiZo Pecs7.3 
 4. Licina, Cegledi EKK7.2 
 5. Cazac, Atomeromu7.0 
 6. Farkasinszki, Szolnok6.6 
 7. Radunovic, SEAT L.6.4 
 8. Holt, MKB Eurol.6.3 
 9. Sipaviciute, Szeged6.1 
 10. Krnjic, MiZo Pecs6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Csilla DARIDA
  Szolnok
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Darida, Szolnok5.6 
 2. Ivanyi, MiZo Pecs5.0 
 3. Kocsis, BSE4.5 
 4. Englert, SEAT L.3.7 
 5. Pungor, Atomeromu3.6 
 6. Nemeth, Szeged3.6 
 7. Eordogh, MKB E.3.5 
 8. Iva, Szeged3.4 
 9. Furesz, Szeged3.1 
 10. Djelmis, SEAT L.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Dalma IVANYI
  MiZo Pecs
  (178-G-76)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Ivanyi, MiZo Pecs3.5 
 2. Bukovszki, ZTE3.5 
 3. Vajda, MiZo Pecs3.0 
 4. Pungor, Atomeromu3.0 
 5. Darida, Szolnok3.0 
 6. Kocsis, BSE2.9 
 7. Iva, Szeged2.9 
 8. Czank, Vasas-Csata2.4 
 9. Zherzherunov., Sze.2.4 
 10. Szelesy, ZTE2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Olena ZHERZHERUNOVA
  Szeged
  (191-F-78)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Zherzherunov., Sze.1.5 
 2. Ievtushenko, Atome.1.2 
 3. Budimir, Bajai NKK0.8 
 4. Bagi, Vasas-Csata0.8 
 5. Varda, BSE0.8 
 6. Czukor, ZTE0.7 
 7. Vajda, MiZo Pecs0.7 
 8. Radunovic, SEAT L.0.6 
 9. Ohlde, MiZo Pecs0.6 
 10. Szelesy, ZTE0.6 


MiZo wins on the road, takes 1-0 lead in the Playoff Finals - by Eurobasket News
Finals
MKB Eurol. - MiZo Pecs 77-83
MiZo did a great job in Game 1 of the Playoff Finals. The team from Pecs grabbed 77-83 road victory against MKB Euroleasing and they will be the hosts in the next meeting. Alexandria Quigley (86) exploded with 25 points, and Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) secured a nice help with 21 points and 6 rebounds. For the home side, Amber Holt (183-G/F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) replied with 20 points, 7 boards and 5 assists. Game 2 is scheduled for tomorrow.


*****************************************************
  ITALY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Brooke SMITH
  Comense
  (191-F/C-84)
  Avg: 17.2
 1. Smith, Comense17.2 
 2. Robert, Faenza16.8 
 3. Dixon, GMA Napoli16.0 
 4. Macchi, Familia Schio15.8 
 5. Walker, GMA Napoli15.5 
 6. Machanguana, Bracco G.15.3 
 7. Brunson, Taranto15.2 
 8. Bjelica, Vomero NA14.6 
 9. Cirov, Priolo14.2 
 10. Pinto, Faenza13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Milka BJELICA
  Vomero NA
  (193-F-81)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Bjelica, Vomero NA10.5 
 2. Walker, GMA Napoli10.2 
 3. Robert, Faenza8.7 
 4. Willis, Livorno8.0 
 5. Brunson, Taranto7.9 
 6. Harper, Umana R.7.6 
 7. Smith, Comense7.4 
 8. Machanguana, Bracco G.6.9 
 9. Godin, Taranto6.4 
 10. Screen, Basket P.6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Adriana PINTO
  Faenza
  (169-G-78)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Pinto, Faenza3.1 
 2. Macchi, Familia Schio2.5 
 3. Eric, Vomero NA2.5 
 4. Ballardini, Umana R.2.3 
 5. Dixon, GMA Napoli2.2 
 6. Penicheiro, Umbertide2.0 
 7. Martinez Pra., Bracco G.2.0 
 8. Carpreaux, Livorno2.0 
 9. Moro, Familia Schio2.0 
 10. Goryanova, GMA N.1.9 
Steals Per Game
 Angela ZAMPELLA
  Comense
  (170-G-78)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Zampella, Comense5.2 
 2. Carpreaux, Livorno4.8 
 3. Dixon, GMA Napoli4.7 
 4. Martinez Pra., Bracco G.4.3 
 5. Pinto, Faenza4.1 
 6. Zara, Basket Parma4.0 
 7. Macchi, Familia Schio3.9 
 8. Eric, Vomero NA3.9 
 9. Robert, Faenza3.7 
 10. Fazio, Comense3.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Oleksandra PRYSTUPA
  Faenza
  (203-C-89)
  Avg: 1
 1. Prystupa, Faenza1.0 
 2. Smith, Comense1.0 
 3. Harper, Umana R.0.9 
 4. Alexander, Faenza0.9 
 5. Godin, Taranto0.7 
 6. Van Malderen, GMA N.0.6 
 7. Wabara, Bracco G.0.6 
 8. Robert, Faenza0.6 
 9. Brunson, Taranto0.6 
 10. Machanguana, Bracco G.0.5 


*****************************************************
  LATVIA - Women  


TTT Riga claim the title - by Eurobasket News
TTT Riga -Cesis 77:57

One of the most interesting series in the country last until the decisive game and honestly it was hard to predict the winner. TTT Riga having home-court advantage won Game 5of the Finals to triumph in the country. TTT Riga outscored Cesis 77:57 and celebrate the tough win to be the top team in the League.
The game started with the guests taking the lead. Cesis better in he opening quarter and as a result reached 15:13 advantage. TTT Riga quickly got back to the game and produced 17-11 in the second period. The squads left the court for the break as the hosts enjoyed 30:26 halftime lead. In the third period TTT Riga added 23-15 and never looked behind after. Moreover they finished the game with 24-16 to lift up the trophy.
Tan White top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Lisa Willis (183-G/F-84, college: UCLA) brought 18. Aija Brumermane (191-C-86) and Kristine Karklina (175-G-83) followed them with 13 points apiece. Kristen Mann (188-F-83, college: UCSB) responded with 14 points in the losing effort and Kristen Morris (190-F-87, college: LSU) scored 13. Anete Horelika (177-G/F-87) delivered 11 and Rima Valentiene brought her team 7 points.

TTT Riga: Tan White (170-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) 21 points, Lisa Willis 18, Aija Brumermane 13, Kristine Karklina 13
Cesis: Kristen Mann 14 points, Kristen Morris 13, Anete Horelika 11

*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA - Women  


TEO reach BWBL Final - by Eurobasket News
TEO -Minsk 2006 93 :40

Lithuanian TEO smashed Minsk 2006 in the second Semifinal of Baltic League. The best team of the League of all the years overwhelmed the team from Belarus 93:40.
TEO opened the game with 22-13, but pushed the tempo later in the half. In the second period Minsk could score only 5 points and failed to catch up. TEO grabbed 48:18 lead at the halftime as it became clear about the winner after 20 minutes. TEO did not stop and continued to dominate the court in the second half as well. They produced 29-12 in the third frame to shock the opponents. With 16-10 Lithuanian favorite finished the game and advanced to the Final.
Lindsey Harding (173-G-84, college: Duke) paced all the winners with 20 points and Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: Va Commonwealth) nailed 17. Indre Dudenaite (184-F-88) delivered 13, while Giedre Paugaite added 12. Ignatovich responded with 15 points in the losing effort. Alesia Zubrytskaya (174-G-81) and Shcharbakova followed her with 6 points apiece.
The Final game will be played between TEO and Lemminkainen. It is clear again that the trophy will stay at Lithuania.

TEO: Lindsey Harding 20, Quanitra Hollingsworth 17, Indre Dudenaite 13
Minsk 2006: Ignatovich 15, Alesia Zubrytskaya 6, Shcharbakova 6


Lemminkainen edge Berezina to advance into Baltic League Final - by Eurobasket News
Lemminkainen - Berezina 67:66
Lemminkainen earned the spot in the Baltic League championship game. The Lithuanian team held off Berezina in a thrilling semifinal clash tonight. The teams met in Klaipeda and Lemminkainen celebrated a narrow win at the end. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) accounted for 29 points to pace Lemminkainen.
Lemminkainen got to an aggressive start. They outscored the Belarusian side 20:16 in the opening frame. The second frame also belonged to Lemminkainen. The Lithunian team accumulated an 11-point buffer at halftime. But Berezina turned the tables in the second half. The visitors cut the margin at just 5-point mark with one quarter remaining. Berezina continued to claw their way back. They axed the margin to minimum in the fourth term but could not capitalize. Lemminkainen escaped with a narrow victory in the dying seconds. Rita Milieskiene (175-G-78) scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds for Lemminkainen. Egle Siksniute (196-F/C-91) netted 7 points in the win. Viktoria Hasper (193-C-88) responded with 27 points and 12 boards for Berezina. Alla Muravskaya (185-F-85) had 18 points and 7 caroms in the loss.

Lemminkainen: Marina Solopova 29, Rita Milieskiene 14, Egle Siksniute 7
Berezina: Viktoria Hasper 27+12 boards, Alla Muravskaya 18


*****************************************************
  MOROCCO - Women  


ASE triumph in a Cup! - by Eurobasket News
ASE triumph in a Morocco Basketball Throne Cup Women 2009/2010. The team won over FUS Fath Union Sportive Rabat 64:61 at the Hall of Complexe Sportif Moulay Abdallah. At first ASE beat CODM Meknes 67:35 at the first Semifinal, while the latter bounced back with 63:56 win in th second game. Due to the better difference ASE advanced to the Final. FUS Fath Union Sportive Rabat smashed SET in the opener 73:37 and won the second game as well 64:57.

*****************************************************
  NCAA1 - Women  


Kelsey Bone to play for Texas A&M - by Eurobasket News
Former South Carolina star Kelsey Bone (6'5''-C-91) has decided to transfer to Texas A&M.

Bone, the Southeastern Conference newcomer of the year, must sit out next year before playing for the Aggies for the 2011-12 season as a sophomore. She announced two weeks ago that she planned to leave South Carolina.

The 6-foot-5 center grew up in the Houston area and says she chose to move to Texas A&M to be closer to her family.

Bone was considered by many to be the nations second-best recruit behind Baylors Brittney Griner coming out of high school. The McDonalds All-American averaged 14 points and led the SEC with more than nine rebounds a game this season.

Bone announced her decision on Thursday.

Courtesy of Yahoo


*****************************************************
  NICARAGUA - Women  


Nicaragua Female NT roster - by Gianni Pascucci
Thanks again to the help Jaime Arevalo, we are able to post the roster of the Nicaragua Female National Team that is competing in the 9th edition of the Central American Games, hosted by Panama. The teamlist is as follows

ROSA PARRALES
ARLEN MAGO
MARIA SALAZAR
ZENIA ARRIAZA
CARMEN ARROLIGA
ILEANA GUERRERO
ESPERANZA OROZCO
MARLENE SEGURA
KATIA CONTRERAS
GEMA DELGADO
ERICKA RUIZ
MARIA ZELEDON


*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Stats Leaders - LFB
Points Per Game
 Eshaya MURPHY
  Mariana
  (--85)
  Avg: 21.1
 1. Murphy, Mariana21.1 
 2. Borges, Cadi la Seu18.4 
 3. Warburton, Gran C.17.6 
 4. Milton-Jones, Ros C.17.4 
 5. Covington, Cadi l.16.0 
 6. Lyttle, Perfumer.15.7 
 7. De Forge, Hondar.-.15.5 
 8. Garcia, Real Canoe15.4 
 9. Staknevicien., Real C.14.9 
 10. Feaster-S., Mann F.14.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sancho LYTTLE
  Perfumerias
  (193-C-83)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Lyttle, Perfumer.10.4 
 2. De Souza, Ros C.9.6 
 3. Sliskovic, Real C.8.3 
 4. Sanford, EBE I.8.2 
 5. Chones, Girona7.9 
 6. Vega, Mariana7.5 
 7. Perovanovic, Olesa7.3 
 8. Pascua, Mann F.7.3 
 9. Covington, Cadi l.7.2 
 10. Langhorne, Rivas E.7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Clara BERMEJO
  Rivas Ecopolis
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 4
 1. Bermejo, Rivas E.4.0 
 2. Palau, Ros Casares3.9 
 3. Garcia, Real Canoe3.7 
 4. Jordana, Real C.3.4 
 5. Infantes, EBE I.3.4 
 6. Aguilar, Ros C.3.4 
 7. Ouvina, Mann Filter3.3 
 8. Sanchez, Gran C.3.2 
 9. Dominguez, Perfumer.3.0 
 10. Hammon, Ros C.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Marta BLANES
  Real Canoe
  (184-F-77)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Blanes, Real Canoe2.9 
 2. Murphy, Mariana2.6 
 3. Lyttle, Perfumer.2.6 
 4. Johnson, EBE I.2.2 
 5. Palau, Ros Casares2.1 
 6. Borges, Cadi la Seu2.0 
 7. Ouvina, Mann Filter1.9 
 8. Ygueravide, Estudian.1.8 
 9. Valdemoro, Ros C.1.8 
 10. Milton-Jones, Ros C.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Erika DE SOUZA
  Ros Casares
  (197-C-82)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. De Souza, Ros C.1.4 
 2. Bavendam, Hondar.-.1.0 
 3. Sliskovic, Real C.0.9 
 4. Page, Mariana0.9 
 5. Gardin, Cadi la Seu0.9 
 6. Henry, Gran Canaria0.8 
 7. Lyttle, Perfumer.0.8 
 8. Chones, Girona0.7 
 9. Podkovalniko., Perfum.0.6 
 10. Donaire, Cadi la Seu0.6 


Ros Casares beats Mann Filter in Game 1 of LFB Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
LFB Semifinals, Game 1: Ros Casares - Mann Filter 80-64

Ros Casares is 1-0 up against Mann Filter after they celebrated 80-64 victory last night in Valencia. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) stepped up for the defending champion with 27 points and 5 rebounds. Anna Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) had 19 and Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76) helped with 14 pts in this victory. Mann Filter got 16 points from Allison Feaster-Strong (181-F-76, college: Harvard). Game 2 is scheduled for April 19.

*****************************************************
  TURKEY - Women  


Standings - TBBL
TBBL Standings
 1. Fenerbahce 21-0 
 2. Mersin 18-3 
 3. Galatasaray 17-4 
 4. TED Kayseri 11-10 
 5. Botas 11-10 
 6. Besiktas 10-11 
 7. Tarsus Bld 10-11 
 8. Istanbul Univ. 9-12 
 9. Ceyhan Bld 9-12 
 10. Samsun 7-14 
 11. Cankaya 4-18 
 12. Kocaeli 0-22 


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Michelle CAMPBELL
  Ceyhan Bld
  (188-F-84)
  Avg: 21.8
 1. Campbell, Ceyhan Bld21.8 
 2. Frazee, Cankaya19.2 
 3. Prince, Botas19.1 
 4. Pringle, TED K.18.7 
 5. Sales, Besiktas17.7 
 6. Hodges, Istanbul.17.2 
 7. Ervin, Ceyhan Bld16.5 
 8. Taylor, Fenerbahce16.4 
 9. Latta, Mersin15.6 
 10. Paris, Botas15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lauren ERVIN
  Ceyhan Bld
  (191-F-85)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Ervin, Ceyhan Bld12.8 
 2. Pringle, TED K.11.8 
 3. Frazee, Cankaya11.7 
 4. Paris, Botas11.6 
 5. Black, Tarsus Bld10.8 
 6. Sevinc, Kocaeli10.1 
 7. Dacic, Besiktas9.7 
 8. Campbell, Ceyhan Bld9.2 
 9. Larkins, Mersin8.8 
 10. Alyoshkina, Samsun8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Sharnee ZOLL
  Botas
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Zoll, Botas6.1 
 2. January, Tarsus Bld4.1 
 3. Hodges, Istanbul.4.0 
 4. Johnson, TED K.3.9 
 5. Unuvar, Cankaya3.9 
 6. Brooks, Cankaya3.9 
 7. Vardarli, Fener.3.9 
 8. Yillar, Kocaeli3.7 
 9. McBride, TED K.3.6 
 10. Zellous, Besiktas3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Tamika CATCHINGS
  Galatasaray
  (186-F-79)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Catchings, Galatasa.3.1 
 2. Chaney, Samsun2.7 
 3. Prince, Botas2.6 
 4. January, Tarsus Bld2.5 
 5. Smith, Ceyhan Bld2.4 
 6. Penn, Istanbul.2.3 
 7. Gant, Istanbul.2.2 
 8. Pringle, TED K.2.2 
 9. Zoll, Botas2.1 
 10. Brooks, Cankaya2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 LaToya PRINGLE
  TED Kayseri
  (191-F/C-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Pringle, TED K.2.4 
 2. Dacic, Besiktas1.4 
 3. Black, Tarsus Bld1.2 
 4. Sutton-Brown, Fenerb.1.1 
 5. Ervin, Ceyhan Bld1.0 
 6. Alyoshkina, Samsun1.0 
 7. Paris, Botas0.9 
 8. Larkins, Mersin0.8 
 9. Zellous, Besiktas0.7 
 10. Engin, Mersin0.7 


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women  


CAHS hoops star Peters signs with Prairie View - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS - Charlotte Amalie High School senior Aesha Peters (91) signed her name on the dotted line and made it official in front of family, friends and teammates.

The Lady Chicken