EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/4/2010 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

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  ANGOLA   


1 De Agosto hold off Petro Luanda in Super Cup Compal opener - by Eurobasket News
1 De Agosto - Petro Luanda 72:67

The Angolan representatives hit the road at the Super Cup Compal yesterday. 1 De Agosto and Petro Luanda clashed in the opening round. Luis Magalhaes celebrated a tough victory at the end. The winners will face Ovarense, while Petro Luanda will try to bounce back against Portuguese champions Benfica.
The first half saw an evenly matched contest. 1 De Agosto claimed a narrow 38:34 lead at the interval. The third frame belonged to the African champions. 1 De Agosto surged ahead to build a 16-point cushion. But Petro Luanda almost rescued the battle. They went on a 20:6 run in the fourth term to narrow the deficit at 2-point mark. However Miguel Lutonda (185-G-71) came up with timely three-pointer to seal the win for 1 De Agosto. Lutonda scored 17 points to lead the charge. Francisco Jordao (203-C-79) had 6 points and 6 rebounds in the victory. Curtis Terry (196-G/F-85, college: UNLV) responded with 16 points, 5 assists and 4 boards for Petro Luanda. Miguel Kiala (198-C-90) finished with 8 points and 6 rebounds in the loss.


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  ARGENTINA   


France too good for Argentina in Mannheim - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Argentina U18 85:66

French U18 National Team posted the first win at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim. They rolled past Argentina in the opener. Evan Fournier (198-G/F-92) exploded with 31 points and 7 boards to lead the Les Bleus.
France however had to withstand a tough fight in the first half of the encounter. Argentina started the game energetically and recorded an 18:17 lead ten minutes into the clash. The second period brought little change to the complexion of the encounter as the teams remained close. Argentina led by one point 36:35 at the interval. Evan Fournier scored 11 points in the third stanza as Les Bleus outscored their opponents 31:8 to establish a comfortable 22-point lead heading into the final quarter. Argentina won the fourth stanza but the damage was done and the Latin American team could not escape the defeat.
Mathis Keita (192-G-92) dropped 16 points for France. Antonin Moynet (194-G-92) delivered 9 points in the winning effort. Fernando Podesta (C-92) replied with 15 points for Argentina. Lucas Diaz (197-F-92) canned 12 points in the loss. France will next take on the USA, while Argentina will play against Croatia tomorrow.

France: Evan Fournier 31, Mathis Keita 16, Antonin Moynet 9
Argentina: Fernando Podesta 15, Lucas Diaz 12


LigaA Round: 1 (1/8 Finals) - by Eurobasket News
La Union - Lanus 82-75
La Union outplayed Lanus 82-75 taking 1-0 lead in LigaA 1/8 Finals. David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.) stepped up for the hosts with 23 points. Anthony Glover (197-F-79, college: St.John's) had 15 points and 5 boards, while Jason Osborne helped with 10 pts and also 5 rebs. In the loosing squad, Nicolas Laprovittola delivered 21 points.

Quimsa - Estudiantes 75-69
1-0 for Quimsa mostly owing to Roman Gonzalez (211-C-78), who scored 24 points and pulled down 8 rebounds. Camargo Dionisio Gomez (203-F-80, college: Arkansas) (6 rebs) and Jose Muruaga secured a nice help with 17 and 14 points respectively. Reque Newsome answered with 14 pts and 9 boards on the other side.

Boca Jrs - Obras 94-88
Boca Juniors celebrated 94-88 victory and they need just one more for the Quarterfinals (2-0). The hosts had six player with double-digits in scoring last night with Cedric Moodie (187-G-78, college: Indianapolis) leading the way with 19 pts. Obras got 20 points from Gustavo Orona (196-G-75).

Union S. - Regatas C. 90-67
William McFarlan (201-F-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas) came up with 22 points and 7 rebounds for Union leading it to 1-0 lead in LigaA 1/8 Finals. James Williams (204-F-79, college: Brown Mackie) and Carlos Schattmann helped with 19 and 18 points respectively. Visitors got 12 points and 9 boards from Federico Kammerichs.

Play-out
Quilmes MP - Olimpico LB 92-88
Quilmes MP had Edward Nelson (203-F-82, college: Connecticut) and Levi Stukes (188-G-84) on fire with 28 points each. Nelson was MVP of the game as he pulled down 10 rebounds beside that. On the other side, Eduardo Villarers replied with 23 pts.

Gimnasia CR - C.Entrerriano 78-70
Gimnasia CR grabbed this one mostly thanks to Hakeem Rollins (202-C/F-83, agency: Liman Sports, college: Washington), who had 18 points and 10 rebounds. Nicolas De los Santos (190-G-88) was the second scorer in victory with 15 points. Alejandro Burgos shined in loss with 26 points and 7 rebounds.


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  AUSTRALIA   


The Emus march past Greece - by Eurobasket News
Australia U18 - Greece U18 88:57

Australian U18 National team got to a victorious start of their Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany. The Emus coasted past Greece for the starting victory. Anthony Drmic (92) tallied 23 points and 11 rebounds to lead Australia.
The Emus opened the game with an 8:2 run to take the lead. The Hellenes answered with 9 points in a row to surge ahead. But Australia went on a 12:2 run to post a 22:13 advantage at the first break. Australia opened a 15-point lead midway through the second stanza. Soon Anthony Drmic gave the Emus a 21-point cushion and then sealed the halftime outcome at 49:29.
The teams traded baskets in the third stanza as Australia managed to maintain the buffer. They finished off their opponents in the fourth term and celebrated a comfortable victory. Mitchell Creek delivered 19 points for the Emus. Jackson Aldridge (G) netted 13 points in the win. Spiros Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) responded with 13 points for Greece. Anastasios Antonakis (204-C/F-92) and Linos Chrysikopoulos canned 10 points each in defeat. The Emus will face Israel, while Greece will look for the first win in the game against Spain.

Australia: Anthony Drmic 23+11 boards, Mitchell Creek 19, Jackson Aldridge 13
Greece: Spiros Motsenigos 13, Anastasios Antonakis 10, Linos Chrysikopoulos 10


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  BARBADOS   


Lakers end jinx; thump Pine by 35 - by Justin Marville
LUMBER COMPANY LAKERS have finally solved their Pinelands hex.

It wouldn't be the only recent Premier League basketball trend that came to an end.

Adrian Allman scored a game high 25 points in his first full-time starting role and newly acquired shooting guard Keefe Birkett added 22 as the former champs ended a string of five closely-contested games by walloping their Pine rivals 87-52 at the Wildey Gymnasium on Thursday night.

The 35-point drubbing was the first double digit victory for the 2010 season, which previously had an average margin of victory below five points and already featured two dramatic game-winning shots in the five games played.

That rout also gave the Husbands men just their second win in five years against Pinelands, who were without key guards Kirk Patrick and Steve Sealy.

But their starting backcourt wasn't the only thing last years league finalists were missing, as the Pine failed to connect on 26 of their first 35 attempts from the floor to fall behind as many as 31 points (51-20) before the intermission.

The Lakers had no such woes though, with Allman, Birkett and Derek Browne forming a virtual lay-up line in transition after they forced the Pine into 30 turnovers while making national forwards Ramon Simmons (14 points) and Charles Vanderpool work for every shot.

In the night's first game, Kareem Farrell had eight of his game high 16 points in the fourth quarter as title contenders Warriors survived a brief fourth quarter scare from a short-handed Patriots team before holding on to win 69-62.

Former MVP Corey McDonald also scored 16 points and had 13 rebounds for Warriors, who had to overcome a 9-2 Patriots opening fourth quarter run fuelled by Seon Hilliman.

Hilliman finished with 14 points, nine of which came in that period, while Anthony White added 12 points in a losing cause.

Motara leads DC past St John's - by Justin Marville
DC UNITED have been vindicated for their much-criticised acquisition of Zahir Motara.

Well, for one game at least.

The former Lakers guard had 11 of his team high 23 points in the fourth quarter as the Deacons side survived a Premier League basketball best 29 points from Akeem Marsh in Tuesday night's 78-72 come from behind win against Roll-A-Way St Johns Sonics at the Wildey Gymnasium.

It was the type of clutch performance DC United were probably banking on when they acquired the oft-impulsive national player, who has been vilified in recent seasons over his questionable shot selection.

But there was no question about his role in helping DC overcome what appeared to be a certain season-opening loss.

On the back of three successive Damien Waithe turnovers to start the fourth, Motara scored two play-ups in transition and a pair of free throws as part of an 8-0 DC United run that transformed a 60-53 deficit to DC's first lead (61-60) of the second half.

It proved to be a lead they never relinquished as the ball inexplicably went away from Marsh, who had 28 points through three quarters, during the initial five minutes of the quarter while Waithe and Ryan Weekes went a combined one for eight from the floor.

And their opponents duly took advantage as Motara added a spectacular fall-away triple and a touch-pass assist to Shawn Grovesnor in transition for good measure, before Richard Layne's jumper stretched the lead to an unassailable 11 points (75-64) with two minutes remaining.

It was a win that looked improbable when the sweet-shooting Marsh started the contest scoring his teams first six points on the way to a 15-point first quarter outburst against an indifferent defensive effort from centre Sydney Rowe.

However, Rowe soon responded in kind, scoring four quick points early in the ensuing period in a span of eight unanswered DC United points that overturned 26-23 first quarter deficit.

But Sonics replied with a run of their own, outscoring their opposition 18-3 to take a double-digit advantage (44-34) before Motara ended the half with successive triples - the last coming from near half court to beat the buzzer.

Those treys merely slowed St Johns momentum though as Marsh was at it again, hitting his trademark midrange jumpers to the tune of nine third quarter points to propel the Sonics lead to seven (60-53).

Rowe finished with 18 points, Selwyn Brooks chipped in with 11 while Dwayne Kellman and Stefan Clarke had 14 points apiece for St John's.

Earlier, reigning MVP Peter Alleyne scored all 22 of his points in the second half while pulling down 12 rebounds to lead British American Insurance to a similar 68-63 comeback victory over his former team Colombian Emeralds International Senators.

Missing Alleyne from the line-up to start the game, Jackson could only manage six points in the first quarter and 18 overall in the half, as Senators led by as many as 11 points before taking a 27-18 first half advantage.

But the multi-talented combo guard exploded for 11 third quarter points, pairing with forward Neil Harewood to reduce the deficit to two (44-42) before eventually taking over the fourth.

Javid Beckles added 14 points, six in that final period while Harewood finished with ten. For Senators, Kevin Francis had a team high 15 points while Ryan Moseley-Clarke added 14.

Leacock, Cougars stun Cavs - by Justin Marville
PREMIER LEAGUE DEBUTS dont come as good as Godfrey Leacock's.

Cougars victories dont get any better than the one they had on Sunday night either.

The rookie swingman scored all 11 of his points in the fourth quarter, including a stunning game-winning triple to lead last seasons doormats to an improbable 67-65 comeback victory over basketballs defending double crowned champs Mpact Station Hill Cavaliers 67-65 at the YMCA.

On an opening night which already featured one amazing game winner a couple hours earlier and two spectacular dunks, it was Leacock's late game heroics that proved to be the most memorable performance of a season opener that clearly wasn't wanting for one.

But the first-year shooting guard provided it anyway, helping Cougars wipe away all of a previous 11-point deficit (63-52) during a stunning 15-2 game-closing run by accounting for his sides last seven points.

And none were bigger than the games final basket.

Breaking out in the open floor with just Corey Williams between him and the basket, Leacock turned down the chance for a one-point lead, instead opting for the jugular by pulling up in transition to hit the contested 21-footer with 12 seconds remaining.

The Cavs still had a chance to win outright, but Williams passed up on an open free-throw line jumper on the ensuing inbounds play, while Jason Smith's subsequent three-point heave was well off the mark before the final buzzer.

That dreadful final series underscored Station Hill's massive fourth quarter meltdown which became imminent following Kelvin Patterson's early departure.

With less than five minutes to play, Cavs' domineering big man scored the last of game high 21 points to give the reigning champs what appeared to be a comfortable 63-52 advantage.

However, Station Hill only managed an Andre Jean-Pierre basket thereafter as Leacock, Kenny Matthews and Antonio Yearwood (20 points) secured Cougars' first ever season-opening victory in Premier League.

Earlier, point guard Rahiim Gibbons hit a dramatic baseline jumper with two seconds remaining to break a 70-all deadlock as former champs Act II Clapham Bulls held on for a last gasp 72-70 win over the upset-minded Sagicor Tridents.

Despite Jeremy Gill's initial eight-point flurry in the fourth, Clapham never held a lead bigger than five points during that period and had to rely on the last second play after the schoolboys refused to go away down the stretch.

Trailing 66-61 midway through the fourth after a threatening Gill three-pointer, Akeem Williams responded with a flurry of his own, scoring five quick unanswered points to tie the game.

The Bulls threatened to pull away again after a Mark Foster jumper and two free throws from Gibbons, but Tridents replied in kind once more as Alleng locked the game at the charity stripe with seven seconds on the clock following Aamir Morris' nifty post move on Foster.

But Gibbons eventually sealed the deal on the subsequent inbounds play, taking a couple dribbles from the right wing towards the baseline before pulling up over the outstretched Williams for the winning basket.

Williams found himself with a potential game-winner of his own, but the ensuing inbounds pass from Manuel Alleng was late, allowing the defence to prevent the Tridents guard from getting off a shot attempt.

Gill finished with a team high 15 points, Sean Parris added 13 while Gibbons and Alvin Padmore chipped in with ten. Daniel Lovell top-scored for the schoolboys with 16 points.

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  BOSNIA   


Adriatic L., 26th Round: Bosna ASA BHT - C. Zvezda 68:67 - by Sead Buljina
In a low scoring affaire Bosna beat Crvena Zvezda at home and avoided the last spot on the standings. Thus, Bosna can play the Adriatic league next season if they are among two best Bosnian team at the end of domestic championship. Helios from Slovenia as the last team on the standings will not play the Adriatic league next year even if they win Slovenian championship. Bosna ASA BHTelecom had to play last round game without one of the best rebounders Seid Hajric who is injured but should be ready for the play offs. Crvena Zvezda led after first half and things did not look good for Bosna. However, guests were not able to decide the game in the first half. Hosts hang around. In the last quarter Bosna allowed guests only 9 points winning the quarter 16:9. In a down-to-wire game Zarko Rakocevic scored a couple consecutive hoops on the low post. Muhamed Pasalic (190-PG-87) sank two free throws with 7 seconds to go. On the other end Radivojevic managed to shoot a desperation shot from well beyond three-point line and almost made it at the buzzer. Bosna deserved the win after unbeleavable losses against Partizan in overtime and FMP when they lost lead in last seconds. Let`s not forget unexpected losses vs. Zagreb at home in first round and Siroki also at home. After a bumpy road this year and many troubles with injuries and finances Bosna achieved its goal and now has to fight for the title in domestic championship. After all that`s the most important thing next to already won Cup of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Stats Leaders - D1
1. LIGA BiH Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 N Vranjes HER 23,2
2 I Bakovic CAP 19,6
3 M Kuridza BOR 19,3
4 J Zdravkovic BOR 17,7
5 L Simonovic HER 16,9
6. M Cubrilo SLA 16,7
7 K Rimac ZRI 15,5
8 D Pinjuh GRU 15,0
9 M Prekovic SLA 14,6
10 Avdibegovic CEL 14,1
Rebounds Per Game
1 M Cubrilo SLA 7,4
2 M Andelija CEL 7,2
3 M Djurkovic IGO 6,7
4 M Damjanac SUT 6,9
5 M Halilovic SLO 6,6
6 A Pejovic HER 6,3
7 D Markovic LEO 5,4
8 M Mrkovic SUT 5,8
9 N Djurasovic LEO 5,1
10 I Josipovic BOR 5,0
Assists Per Game
1 F Adamovic SLO 4,8
2 L Simonovic HER 4,6
3 G Jelcic GRU 4,1
4 V Radovanovic CAP 4,0
5 T Tomislav ZRI 3,8
6 M Bocka IGO 3,1
7 J Zavkovic BOR 3,1
8 A Avdibegovic CEL 2,9
9 H Jahic CEL 2,9
10 V Zujovic IGO 2,1
Steals Per Game
1 N Vranjes HER 3,1
2 V Zujevic IGO 2,0
3 N Pavlovic BOR 2,0
4 M Bocka IGO 3,0
5 M Komatina IGO 2,1
6 Z Joknic SUT 1,9
7 S Crnobrnja HER 1,4
8 S Fekete IGO 1,3
9 N Djurasovic LEO 1,3
10 M Vulic BOR 1,1
Blocks Per Game
1 S Leric CAP 1,4
2 D Albijanic SLO 1,3
3 M Cubrilo SLA 1,0
4 M Djurkovic IGO 0,7
5 N Djurasovic LEO 0,6
3FGP
1 R Rizvic CEL 50%
2 A Sadibasic CEL 45%
3. Tanasilovic SLO 44%
4 M Durkovic IGO 43%
5 S Blanusa MLA 42%
6 B Sekicki SUT 40.9%
7 V Zujovic IGO 40.7%
8 Avdibegovic CEL 40.6%
9 NDurasovic LEO 40.3%
10 M Cubrilo SLA 40.2%
Free Throws
1 K Rimac ZRI 88%
2 AAvdibegovic CEL 87%
3 V Aleksic LEO 85.7%
4 M Bocka IGO 85.4%
5 J Zdravkovic BOR 85%


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  BRAZIL   


Flamengo and Universo/BRB record victories - by Eurobasket News
Flamengo cruised past Pitagoras/Minas for the 20th win in the season. Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) knocked down 24 points to lead the hosts to a 91:71 victory. Flamengo marched into the game taking a 47:26 lead at halftime. The defending champions never looked back in the second half rolling to the victory. Guilherme Teichmann accounted for 13 points, while Eduardo Machado had 15 in the win. Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) answered with 20 points for Pitagoras/Minas. Raulzinho Togni added 12 points in defeat.
Universo/BRB outscored Sao Jose/Vinac 84:72 away from home. Welington dos Santos (186-G-81, agency: Interperformances) nailed 20 points to lead the effort. Guilherme Giovannoni accounted for 18 points in the league leaders. Sao Jose led by 5 points at the first intermission. But Universo/BRB gradually took over and surged ahead in the third term. The league leaders sealed the victory in the fourth period. Alex Garcia notched 16 points for the winners. Paulao Castro stepped up with 17 points in the loss.
Palmeiras shot down Vivo/Franca 96:70 for the 10th win in the tournament. Jhonatan Luz dos Santos (196-F/G-87) delivered 20 points for the winning side. Deivisson Costa had 19 points for Palmeiras. Tony Stockman (186-G-81, college: Ohio St.) replied with 20 points for Vivo/Franca.
Saldanha surprised Joinville 71:63 on the road. The visitors built a 41:25 lead at halftime and hung on to win the battle. Joel Munoz (179-G-80) poured in 28 points for Saldanha. Amiel Vega Morejon contributed 13 points for the visiting side. Bristott replied with 16 points for Joinville.


Americana Basketball Team in the Novo Milenio Tournament - by Paulo Freire
One of the teams that are competing in the Novo Milnio Tornament in preparation for the Sao Paulo State Championship is the Americana Basketball Team, from the city of Americana in Sao Paulo State.
The Coaching Staff is composed by coach Wolmer Bicalho, fitness trainer Virgil Michel Marc Lopez, assistant coach / supervisor Evandro Francelino.
From the 2009 roster were kept only four professional players and some young prospect players sucha as Weliton and Fernando.
It will remain with the team the expirience players shooting guard Alfredo Perandini (197-F-75), point guard Marcinho Silva (G-73), PF Fernando Bala (C) and Edu Limper (200-F-77) .

Directors sign point guards Fernando Reis (186-G-81) and Luis Fernando (193-G) coming from Rio Pard and Limeira respectetive, brought back center Sapo dos Santos (195-C-77) and File Souza (204-F/C-81) and the offensive man Gilson de Jesus (195-F/G-79, college: Kansas St.) that were playing overseas.

Turkey edge Brazil in Mannheim - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Brazil U18 70:55

Turkey posted the initial win at the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany. The Turkish juniors held off Brazil in the opener. Can Korkmaz (92) poured in 20 points to lead the European team.
It was a close battle throughout the first three quarter. Turkey looked slightly better early in the game taking a 17:13 lead at the first break. Brazil bounced back in the second frame. They quickly drew things level and ensured a 29:29 tie at halftime. The lead changed hands for several times in the third frame before Can Korkmaz gave Turkey a 49:47 advantage heading into the fourth term. He opened the fourth term with two more triples as Turkey stretched the lead to 8 points. Turkey soon opened a double-digit lead and rallied to the victory. Safak Edge (185-G-92) provided 14 points for the winning side. Samet Geyik (202-F-93) nailed 12 points and grabbed 9 boards in the win. Felipe Vezaro answered with 17 points, 6 boards and 3 assists for Brazil. Cristiano Felicio finished with 9 points in the loss.

Turkey: Can Korkmaz 20, Safak Edge 14, Samet Geyik 12
Brazil: Felipe Vezaro 17, Cristiano Felicio 9


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  BULGARIA   


Hard win for Lukoil Academic earns them top place - by Valentin Anguelov
The team of Lukoil Academic took very important win in the battle for first place in NBL. Today the champions defeated Levski 79-77 at home and are now occupying alone the first position. If the team wins all the games until the end it will have a home advantage in the playoffs. It was a dramatic game as it had 24 lead changes and 18 ties, but at the end the luck was on Lukoil's side.
The first quarter was very even and at the end of it Levski had the edge, 21-22. In the second Lukoil improved its defense and that showed on the scoreboard. Near the end of the half the hosts pulled away and led 43-35.
The visitors started very strong the second half and not only erased the deficit but even took the lead. Then both teams exchanged basket and Lukoil went in front 57-56 before the last ten minutes. The last quarter was very dramatic and the winner was not known until the final seconds. With the score tied at 76, Slavko Stefanovic (206-C-81, agency: BeoExcell) scored a three-pointer with 7 seconds to go and after Aaron Harper missed for the visitors the game was over.
Pero Antic was the top scorer for the winners with 17 points despite fouling out early in the fourth quarter. Todor Stoykov showed once again he is a player for the big games and added 16 points while Willie Deane scored 15.
Top scorer of the game with 19 points was the captain of the visitors Stefan Georgiev. Aaron Harper added 14 and Gjorgi Cekovski 13 during the first loss for Levski in 9 games in the league.

FULL STATS FROM LUKOIL ACADEMIC - LEVSKI GAME


Lukoil Academic - Levski 79:77, the captain is back! - by Vladi Lazarova
Hours before one of the biggest Christian holidays - Easter, Bulgarian champion Lukoil Academic started well-deserved celebrations. At their home court and in front of the eyes of Academic fans, The Students outplayed Levski by 79:77.
After this victory in the small town of Pravets, Lukoil jumped at the top of the standings in Bulgarian basketball league with 19 wins and 3 lost games. The Blues pulled down at the second place with 18 victories and 4 losses. If Academic finished the regular season without any surprising loss, the team will keep this first position and will open the playoffs with home court advantage.
The match tonight in Pravets turned into another evidence and long time ago proven truth, that Lukoil Academic is winning and fighting to the end only, when the captain of the squad Todor Stoykov (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances) is on the court. 198 cm tall leader scored 16 decisive points (5/10, 50% for 2 points, 4/8, 50% for 3 points, 2/3, 67% free throws). Most of his long distance shells today came in the last minutes of the game. 33-years old veteran demonstrated high class, strong aim and character, when Academic was down. Thanks to him and his teammate Willie Deane (186-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue), The students finally won over their biggest opponent in Bulgaria - Levski. Deane finished with 15 points, but the happy-end for the hosts turned into reality just few seconds before the end. The ball came in the hands of Slavko Stefanovic (206-C-81, agency: BeoExcell). He didn't hesitated to shoot and the ball clearly passed through the net - 79:77 for Academic!



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  CHINA   


Germany U17 shoot down China at Albert Schwietzer Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Germany U17 - China U18 77:51
German U17 National Team held off China in the opening game at the Albert Schweitzer tournament for both teams. The prestigious tournament started today in Mannheim, Germany. Jacob Krumbeck (188-G-93) and Bogdan Radosavljevic (212-C-93) knocked down 15 points each to lead Germany to quite one-sided victory.
The hosts dominated from start to finish. Germany built a 19:11 lead at the first break. They tipped off the second term with four straight points to earn a 12-point lead. China managed to cut the distance at 10-point mark at halftime. Jacob Krumbeck exploded with back-to-back trebles midway through the third frame as Germany cleared off to a 43:31 lead. The hosts built a 53:35 lead at the final intermission. Germany began the final term with eight points in a row and never looked back en route to the victory.
Besnik Bekteshi (187-G-93) nailed 11 points for the winners. Shi Hongfei (180-G-93) responded with 18 points for China. Wang Pu (197-F-93) netted 8 points in the losing case. German U17 team will play versus New Zealand, while China will face Italy tomorrow.

Germany: Jacob Krumbeck 15, Bogdan Radosavljevic 15, Besnik Bekteshi 11
China: Shi Hongfei 18, Wang Pu 8


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  CROATIA   


Royce Woolridge leads USA past Croatia - by Eurobasket News
USA U18 - Croatia U18 71:69
USA eked out a tough victory over Croatia at the start of the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany. The United State juniors had to withstand a fierce comeback effort from the Croats in the final stanza to snatch a narrow win. Royce Woolridge came up with 18 points to lead the charge.
Croatia led by Roko Rogic (6'2''-G-92) got to the better start. They earned a 19:16 lead at the first break. But the North American team recovered in the second frame. They limited Croatia to 13 points and established an 8-point buffer at halftime 40:32. The USA controlled the rhythm in the third stanza. They strengthened their advantage entering the final stanza up by 10 points. Croatia did not surrender though and put up a reckless fight in the final minutes. The European team almost denied the deficit before losing the game in the dying moments. Ryan Boatright nailed 12 points and issued 4 assists in the win. Mike Chandler delivered 10 points and 8 boards for the USA. Roko Rogic responded with 19 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for Croatia. Boris Barac (6'8''-F-92) netted 14 points in the loss.

USA: Royce Woolridge 18, Ryan Boatright 12, Mike Chandler 10
Croatia: Roko Rogic 19, Boris Barac 14


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  D-LEAGUE   


Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Albuquerque - Reno Bighorns 112-134
Seven Bighorns finished in double figures, and Reno notched its highest scoring output of the season Friday night in a 134-112 victory over the Albuquerque Thunderbirds in the Reno Events Center. The Bighorns (26-22) have now won five-straight games, and Reno remains in position to potentially capture the eighth and final NBA D-League playoff spot with just two games left on the slate, both at home. Reno posted 67 points in the first half Friday night and went to intermission with a 15-point advantage. Albuquerque (18-31) hung tough in the third quarter, but Reno was too much in the fourth, outscoring the T-Birds 35-26 in the final frame to collect the win. The loss marked the ninth-straight for Albuquerque. Desmon Farmer (6'5''-G-81, college: USC) knocked down four three-pointers on his way to a game-high 31 points for Reno. Rod Benson recorded a double-double with 17 points and 12 boards, while D.J. Strawberry came off the bench to chip-in 22 with eight assists for the Bighorns. Albuquerque, who like Reno featured seven players in double figures, was led by a 22-point effort from Shane Edwards. Sasha Cuic recorded 10 points and 10 boards off the bench, and Jason Horton recorded 17 assists. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Dakota W. - Rio Grande 100-108
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers outscored the Dakota Wizards 31-21 in the fourth quarter to pick-up their NBA Development League single-season record-tying 21st home win of the season with a 108-100 victory tonight at State Farm Arena in front of a crowd of a sell-out crowd of 5,641. The Vipers (34-15) are now 21-3 at home. The 2008 NBA Development League Champion Idaho Stampede finished 21-4 at home while the 2009 NBA Development League Champion Colorado 14ers finished 20-4 at home. Will Conroy (6'2''-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington) led all scorers with 21 points to go with 13 assists while picking up his 13th double-double of the season. Antonio Anderson finished with 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists while Sensley scored 13 points with six rebounds, four assists and two steals. Darren Cooper led the Wizards with 18 points and Corsley Edwards scored 17 points. Hudson finished with 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Los Angeles D. - Idaho S. 99-122
Donell Taylor (6'6''-G-82, college: UAB) led the Idaho Stampede as they defeated the Los Angeles D-Fenders (16-33), 122 - 99 on Friday night at Qwest Arena. The Stampede came out blazing and scored 43 points in the first quarter to the D-Fenders' 25. Taylor led Idaho's charge with 10 points, four rebounds and four assists at the close of the first quarter. By the end of two quarters the Stampede had three players in double-figures. Los Angeles' Rodney Webb came off the bench to score 14 points in the first half. Although the D-Fenders outscored the Stampede 24 - 17 in the second quarter, the Stampede maintained the lead at halftime, 91-72. The Stampede sustained their tempo in the second half helping to secure the win. The D-Fenders fought back but were never able to take the lead. Idaho outscored Los Angeles 62-50 in the second half, leading by as much as 27 points. Gabriel Hughes came off the bench for L.A. and earned a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Rodney Webb and James Wright grabbed 18 points apiece, while teammate Ray Reese contributed with 13 points for the D-Fenders. Taylor earned his first triple-double of the season and second for the Stampede with 18 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds. Mildon Ambres earned his 13th double-double of the season with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Joe Dabbert also grabbed a double-double with 18 points and 15 rebounds making it his ninth of the season. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Sioux Falls S. - Bakersfield J. 123-110
One team entered Friday's Jam-Skyforce matchup with an opportunity to improve their playoff standing while the other can only watch the postseason from home, and both looked their part as Sioux Falls led wire to wire in a 123-110 defeat of Bakersfield. Kirk Penney (6'5''-G-80, college: Wisconsin) was the runaway star of the game, posting a remarkable 40-point effort in just his third game with the Skyforce. Penney shot 16-for-23 from the field and 5-for-6 from three-point range as the Jam proved incapable of stopping his jump shot, and grabbed eight rebounds to complement his offensive effort. Jam guard Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.) did his best to combat Penney's scoring effort, and finished with 28 points and six assists in the loss. Brian Butch once again led Bakersfield in the rebounding department with 13 boards on the night, but failed to record a double-double for the first time since the All-Star break as he finished with only nine points on 4-for-14 shooting. *Courtesy of www.onebakersfield.com

Ft.Wayne MA - Maine RC 105-92
Despite a 27-point effort from Russell Robinson (6'1''-G-86), the Maine Red Claws fell to the Fort Wayne Mad Ants by a score of 105-92. After the Red Claws closed the first half on a 13-4 run, the Mad Ants came out of the break on fire, outscoring Maine 19-6 to take a 70-56 lead. Trailing 81-67 at the start of the fourth quarter, Maine started the frame on a 10-2 run to cut the deficit to six, but Maine would not come any closer over the final eight minutes of play. Oliver Lafayette powered his way to a double-double for the Mad Ants with 32 points and 12 boards while teammate Robert Kruz also had a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Morris Almond scored 22 points for the Red Claws while teammate Kurt Looby grabbed 16 boards while blocking six shots in the loss. For his efforts, Looby was named the Adidas Player of the Game. With tonight's win, Fort Wayne's season has concluded. Maine will face the Erie BayHawks tomorrow in their final regular season game and face a do-or-die situation. Even with a win in their season finale, Maine will need some help from Reno or Utah to secure a spot in the playoffs. Both teams are in action tonight. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Iowa E. - Tulsa 66ers 87-125
Oklahoma City Thunder assignee B.J. Mullens (7'0''-C-89, college: Ohio St.) finished with a game-high 21 points and 10 rebounds for his seventh double-double of the season, as the Tulsa 66ers (27-21) defeated the Iowa Energy (36-13) 125-87 Friday night at the Tulsa Convention Center. Thunder assignee Mustafa Shakur ran the offense, as he dished out a game-high nine assists to go along with five points and four rebounds en route to the 38-point margin of victory, the highest in franchise history. Led by Mullens, the 66ers finished with six players scoring in double figures, including two double-doubles. Williams finished with 20 points and 10 rebounds off the bench, while Moses Ehambe and Owens each added 15 points. Deron Washington had 14 points and six rebounds, while Marcus Lewis contributed 13 points and six boards off the bench. Led by Tyndale with 21 points, the Energy had five players in double digit scoring. Atchley finished with a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Jeff Trepagnier, Pat Carroll and Phillips each added 11 points. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Utah F. - Austin T. 120-115
The Utah Flash's first trip to Austin this season was a success with the Flash beating the Toros at the Austin Convention Center, 120-115. Utah had seven players score in double-figures including all five starters: Kevin Kruger (6'1''-G-83, college: UNLV) (22), Greene (21), Ingram (18), Davis (17), Brian Hamilton (13), and Luke Nevill (10). Austin had five players score in double-figures: Williams (28), Jerrells (27), Eddie Basden (18), Dawson (13), and Squeaky Johnson (10). *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Ft.Wayne MA - Springfield A. 100-83
Robert Kurz (6'9''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) 's near-flawless play led the Mad Ants to a 100-83 win over the Springfield Armor on Thursday at Springfield, Mass., in their next-to-last game of the season. Kurz hit 10 of 11 shots from the field, scored 27 points with nine rebounds and three blocks and committed only one turnover as the Ants took their seventh win in eight games. Fort Wayne (21-28) finishes the regular season at 7:30 tonight in Maine. Oliver Lafayette added 24 points, nine assists and four steals and Rod Wilmont scored 16 points with six assists, six rebounds and six steals. Carlos English was the only other Ants player in double figures, scoring 10 points in a backup role. Springfield (7-42) was led by Tre Whitted's 21 points and 11 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.news-sentinel.com

Springfield A. - Erie Bay H. 90-107
On a day that Erie saw record temperatures for early April, Blake Ahearn (6'2''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Missouri St.) was scorching hot dropping in 31 points and adding 11 assists to lead the BayHawks over the Springfield Armor by a score of 107-90 in front 3,497 fans at the Tullio Arena. Erie went wire-to-wire in their final home game of the season. John Bryant scored 10 first quarter points as the BayHawks led by three after the first frame. The lead grew to 8 points at halftime as Mike Gansey paced Erie with 7 second quarter points. Ahearn had his biggest quarter of the night in the third as he buried three 3-point baskets en route to an 11-point quarter. He added two more from long range in the fourth quarter as Erie took its largest lead of the game at 19 points with less than one minute to play. Along with Ahearn, Erie also got double -doubles from Gansey who tallied 16 points and grabbed 10 rebounds and Bryant who contributed 15 points and 10 boards as Erie improved to 20-29. Springfield was lead by Abdulai Jalloh who dropped in a game-high 35 points as the Armor closed out their inaugural season at 7-43. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


New York Knicks Sign Iowa Energy Center Earl Barron - by Surujh Roopnarine
As another disappointing NBA season draws to a close for the New York Knicks, their apparent end-of-season D-League love fest starts once again. 2010 NBA D-league All-Star Earl Barron (7'0''-C-81, college: Memphis) of the Iowa Energy has been signed to a 10-day contract by the New York Knicks. The Knicks went on a D-League shopping spree at the end of last season, signing Chris Hunter (6'11''-F/C-84, college: Michigan), Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan), Mouhamed Sene (7'0''-C-86), Crawford Joe (6'5''-G-86, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Kentucky) and Demetris Nichols (6'9''-F-84, college: Syracuse) to audition during the last week and a half of the regular season. Barron is just as deserving as those players and may get some time to play considering that Wilson Chandler is out for the rest of the season and Al Harrington has been battling through numerous bumps and bruises of late as well. Barron, a product of the University of Memphis Barron has appeared in 47 games, all starts, for Iowa this season, averaging 16.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 31.7 minutes. He scored in double-figures 39 times, registering 26 double-doubles. Barron has had previous run in the NBA, as a member of the Miami Heat for three seasons, between 2005 and 2008. In 82 career NBA games with Miami, he has averaged 4.9 points and 3.0 rebounds in just less than 14 minutes. His best season in the NBA was ironically his last, as during the 2007-08 campaign he averaged 7.1 points and 4.3 rebounds in 46 games. Barron has spent parts of five seasons in the D-League, while also playing overseas in Turkey and the Philippines. Barron was with new York last night but did not suit up during their 117-128 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Recent Comings and Goings in the D-League - by Surujh Roopnarine
Rio Grande Valley: Re-acquired Craig Winder (6'2''-G-84, college: Texas) and signed Terrel Harris (6'5''-G-87, college: Oklahoma St.) and Rich Melzer (6'8''-F-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal.). Winder returns to the Vipers after being waived due to injury in March. In 28 games this season all off the bench, the super-sub is averaging 14.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.3 steals in 22.5 minutes. Terrell Harris, a rookie out of Oklahoma State was signed after appearing in 22 games with Maine prior to being waived in March. A Big 12 All-Defensive Team selection during his senior season, the 6-5 Harris is averaging 5.8 points and 2.4 rebounds this season. Veteran big man Rich Melzer is the newest Viper, coming back to D-League after helping lead the Albuquerque Thunderbirds to the 2006 NBA D-League Championship. Melzer most recently played for the Skytrans Cairns Taipans of Australia, where in 28 games he averaged 10.9 points and 4.8 rebounds. To make room on the roster for these new faces, the Vipers waived Quin Humphrey due to injury as well as Travis Holes and Louis Graham who were only brought in last week.

Iowa: Signed Brian Evans (6'1''-G-82, college: Texas A&M - C.C.). Evans, a 6-1 guard out of Texas A&M - Corpus Christi spent the 2008-09 season in Iowa. In 33 games last season he averaged 8.7 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists while shooting 49.0% from the field.

Tulsa: Signed JaJuan Smith (6'2''-G-85, college: Tennessee). The 6-2 guard played most recently in Brazil and Spain, where he averaged 6.8 points per contest. Smith was a member of the Dallas Mavericks 2008 NBA Summer League team in Las Vegas, where he averaged 7.6 points, and 1.0 rebound in five games. He played in France during the 2008-09 season. Smith had a very successful career at Tennessee playing along with star guard Chris Lofton. Smith ranks third all-time in career three-point field goals made with 681, fourth in career steals with 183 and 19th in career points with 1,384. In two games this far with the 66ers the 6-2 Smith is averaging 6.0 points, 1.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 15.5 minutes.

Utah: Signed veteran D-League forward Brian Jackson (6'9''-F-80, college: Oregon St.). Arriving at the end of March, the 6-9 former Oregon State product is a veteran of four previous D-League campaigns with the now defunct Arkansas RimRockers and Utah. In 179 career D-League games (157 starts) the 29-year old Jackson is averaging 9.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists. Thus far this season he has had a much more limited role in Utah, averaging only eight minutes per game resulting in 1.3 points and 1.5 rebounds over four games.

Austin: Signed Eric Dawson (6'9''-F-84, college: Midwestern St.). Dawson spent this season in Japan where in 30 games for the Mitsubishi Diamond Dolphins he averaged 14.1 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.2 blocks in just 20.4 minutes. Last season Dawson was an important member of the Toros, helping lead them to the Semifinals. In two games this season he is averaging 9.0 points and 4.5 rebounds


Phoenix Suns to Sign Austin Toros Center Dwayne Jones - by Surujh Roopnarine
The NBA D-league blog site Ridiculous Upside (http://www.ridiculousupside.com/2010/4/2/1402522/suns-to-sign-dwayne-jones-for-the) is reporting that the Phoenix Suns will sign Austin Toros center Dwayne Jones (6'11''-C-83, college: St.Joseph's) to a contract for the remainder of the season. Oards. Jones is averaging a After the injury to Robin Lopez, the Suns have been staggeringly thin at the center position, with Jarron Collins (6'10''-F-78, college: Stanford) and (more of a forward) Channing Frye (6'11''-C/F-83, college: Arizona) filling the minutes. Despite being criticized for lacking much of an offensive game or advanced skill-set, Jones is in the top-20 of scoring in the D-League with a 17.6 point per game average and gets to the free throw line more than any big man in the league (9.1 attempts). However, his undisputable appeal to the Suns (or any NBA team for that matter) is his relentless and tireless work on the boards. Jones a one-time St. Josephs College star who teamed with Jameer Nelson (6'0''-G-82, college: St.Joseph's) and Delonte West (6'4''-G-83, college: St.Joseph's) to lead them to 2004 NCAA Elite Eight, is leading the D-League in rebounding with an amazing 16.0 rebounds per game average. He has nearly doubled the next closest player in terms of offensive rebounds (298 vs. 166 for Earl Barron), while collecting a league-leading 472 defensive boards. However, all of his accolades and undeniable performance in the D-League has not earned him a call-up until this point. A few workouts with NBA clubs have been all he has had to show for his remarkable season. In Phoenix he will obviously not be called upon to star as he does in Austin, but he could pick up some minutes in garbage time or on the nights when Phoenix is battling a rugged interior post presence. For his D-league career (four seasons) Jones is averaging 14.7 points, 13.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.8 blocks while shooting 57.2% from the field. Jones limited run in the NBA (80 games with Boston, Cleveland and Charlotte) has produced career averages of 1.3 points per game and 2.4 rebounds in 7.9 minutes.

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  EBA   


Elmira Bulldogs GM & Head Coach leaves to accept a new, stimulating job. - by Gianni Pascucci
The Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League (ACPBL) will kick off its inaugural season on Saturday, December 4, 2010 in cities up and down the Atlantic. The new league is owned by a private group of investors, who have chosen James R. Schutz , former Elmira Bulldogs head coach and General Manager, as the leagues first commissioner. As commissioner, James R. Schutz will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League, including the leagues day to day operations.
In the terms of accepting the commissionership, James R. Schutz was asked by the leagues private ownership group to step down as head coach and general manager of the Elmira Bulldogs. Under Schutz's leadership, the Elmira, NY based franchise cruised to a dominant 30-9 record, including trips to the playoffs in all three seasons, with two championship appearances.
'It will certainly be sad to leave behind the Elmira Bulldogs with all of the success we have had', stated newly appointed Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League commissioner James R. Schutz . 'However, it is bitter sweet as now I have been provided with the opportunity to provide and support my family while still being involved in the one thing I have always loved most, the game of basketball.'
The Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League has already received communications from nine minor league basketball franchises wishing to join the ACPBL for the 2010-2011 inaugural season. Now that the Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League has announced its plan to launch publicly, it is expected that the number of interested franchises looking to join the ACPBL will grow to over thirty for the approaching 2010-2011 season. Schutz Stated that The Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League will have a comprehensive screening process and will only be excepting the 10 best franchises seeking to join the new league. 'When it comes to ACPBL franchises, we want quality, not quantity', stated ACPBL commissioner James R. Schutz . For more information on the Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League please visit www.acpbl.com or e-mail the league commissioner directly at jschutz@acpbl.com


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  ESTONIA   


EMKL Round: 3 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
TTU KK - Tallinna Kalev 98-86
TTU KK surged ahead in the series versus Tallinna Kalev. Joosep Pokla (198-G-86) scored 33 points and pulled down 10 rebounds to lead TTU KK to the second straight win. Kristo Orula (186-G-85) produced 18 points for the home team. Nicholas Covington responded with 23 points for Tallinna Kalev.

Kalev/Cramo - Valga Welg 88-81
Kalev/Cramo swept the quarterfinal series against Valga. Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-G-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) scored 24 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the defending champions to the decisive third win in the clash. Charron Fisher (193-G/F-85, college: Niagara) added 22 points and 10 rebounds for Kalev/Cramo. Ando Tagamets responded with 20 points and 12 boards for Valga. Heiko Rannula accounted for 15 points in the loss.


Kalev/Cramo goes to semis - by Janar Filippov
The reigning Estonian champion, BC Kalev/Cramo advanced to the semi-finals of G4S Korvpalli Meistriliiga (KML) after beating Valga/CKE Inkasso 88:81 (43:36) on Saturday at Kalev Sports Hall. Kalev/Cramo won quarter-final series 3:0 and will face arch-rivals Tartu University/Rock in semis.
Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-G-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) made 4/6 three-pointers and scored 24 points with 9 rebounds. Charron Fisher (193-G/F-85, college: Niagara) added 4 steals to his usual 22 points +10 rbs. Rait Keerles (201-F-80) (13 pts) and Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) (10 pts + 5 assists) also had double figures. Ando Tagamets (200-F-79) made 9/11 two-pointers and had 20 points plus 12 rbs. Heiko Rannula (186-G-83) added 15, Timo Oja (182-G-87) and Antti Vasar (195-F-79) 14 points. Kalev/Cramo made 12 three-pointers and 11 steals (opponents 6 and 2, respectively).
There is one quarterfinal series still going on - TTU leads 2:1 against Tallinna Kalev with 4th game played on Monday.

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  FINLAND   


1st Division Round: 2 (Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Lapua - Tarmo 84-88
Tarmo stepped closer to the title as they celebrated victory in the second game of the Final. Tarmo stole a road win over Lapua as Baeu Muhlbach (193-G/F, agency: 22ft, college: Texas A&M) came up with 29 points and 12 boards. Aubrey Conerly (183-G-83, college: Jacksonville) finished with 20 points, while Tyrwone Still had 14 points and 6 caroms in the victory. Bryant Nash and Rob Haynes answered with 23 points apiece for Lapua.


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  FRANCE   


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


Standings - ProB
ProB Standings
 1. Pau-Lacq-Ort. 24-4 
 2. Limoges 19-9 
 3. Maurienne 18-10 
 4. Bourg 18-10 
 5. Evreux 17-11 
 6. Nanterre 17-11 
 7. Le Portel 17-11 
 8. Lille 17-11 
 9. Boulazac 13-15 
 10. St.Vallier 13-15 
 11. Charleville 11-17 
 12. Antibes 11-17 
 13. Nantes 11-17 
 14. Fos Ouest 11-17 
 15. Clermont 10-18 
 16. Quimper 9-19 
 17. Bordeaux 8-20 
 18. Brest 8-20 


France too good for Argentina in Mannheim - by Eurobasket News
France U18 - Argentina U18 85:66

French U18 National Team posted the first win at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim. They rolled past Argentina in the opener. Evan Fournier (198-G/F-92) exploded with 31 points and 7 boards to lead the Les Bleus.
France however had to withstand a tough fight in the first half of the encounter. Argentina started the game energetically and recorded an 18:17 lead ten minutes into the clash. The second period brought little change to the complexion of the encounter as the teams remained close. Argentina led by one point 36:35 at the interval. Evan Fournier scored 11 points in the third stanza as Les Bleus outscored their opponents 31:8 to establish a comfortable 22-point lead heading into the final quarter. Argentina won the fourth stanza but the damage was done and the Latin American team could not escape the defeat.
Mathis Keita (192-G-92) dropped 16 points for France. Antonin Moynet (194-G-92) delivered 9 points in the winning effort. Fernando Podesta (C-92) replied with 15 points for Argentina. Lucas Diaz (197-F-92) canned 12 points in the loss. France will next take on the USA, while Argentina will play against Croatia tomorrow.

France: Evan Fournier 31, Mathis Keita 16, Antonin Moynet 9
Argentina: Fernando Podesta 15, Lucas Diaz 12


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  GERMANY   


2. Bundesliga Pro B: Player of the Month Awards for March - by Moritz Korff
Jackson Capel (191-G-87, college: Evangel) knows how to put the basketball in the hoop. Undoubtedly the 23-year-old, who hails from Erlanger, Ky., is the focal point on the team of RSV Eintracht Stahnsdorf if it comes to offensive play. He produced 34.8 points per contest in March and also pulled down 5.3 rebounds and had 2.3 steals a game. Throughout this current season the 2008-2009 NAIA Division One Leading Scorer and three-time NAIA All-American had seven 30+ points performances, including a 53 points night against Speyer lately. Trying to keep Capel from putting on another show has to be considered as the main objective of teams taking on the Stahnsdorf team this year. However, this is often easier said than done, as Capel scored in double digits in each game he played for Stahnsdorf during 2009-2010 and is leading the 2. Bundesliga Pro B not only in Points Per Game (24.9), but in Three Pointers Made (106) as well. In his four appearances in March, the Evangel University graduate nailed 6.3 tripples per night. Just another reason why Capel was named Player of the Month.

Youngster of the Month honors for March have been awarded to Nuernberg's Bastian Doreth (183-G-89). Pass first appeared to be his motto through the month, as the former German U20-international dished out 9.0 assists/game in four contests played and guided NBC to a 3-1 record in March. Additionally the 20-year-old averaged 8.8 points and 4.5 boards.

2. Bundesliga Pro A: Player of the Month Awards for March - by Moritz Korff
UBC Hannover's Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86, college: Illinois St.) earned 2. Bundesliga Pro A Player of the Month honors for March and Dima Rastatter (200-F-88) of BV Chemnitz was named Youngster of the Month, as announced by the league this week. He averaged 22.0 points, 5.3 assists and 2.0 steals per outing in March and has been the dominating player, not only on the Tigers' team, but also in the entire league.
Though having received this accolade for his outstanding individual performances on the court, Hannover coach Mahmut Ataman decided to cut Holloway from the roster for the game against Langen. However, no further information have been published on that matter.

Rastatter missed one encounter in March due to a knee injury, but made noise at three other weekends this past months. He tallied 14.0 points a game and grabbed 10.7 boards per contest.

BEKO Bundesliga Game Day 30 Saturday April 3rd, 2010 - by Michael Taylor
Beko Basketball Bundesliga tipped off Game Day 30 Saturday April 3rd and the Easter weekend action was fantastic. Bremerhaven, Giessen and Bamberg picked up last second victories as the Bundesliga playoff race picked up.

Saturday April 3, 2010
ALBA BERLIN 79 Dusseldorf Giants 73
ALBA Berlin topped an upset-minded Dusseldorf Giants team 79-73 Saturday night at Burg-Wachter-Costello in Dusseldorf. Riding their midweek Eurocup success, ALBA played Saturday without star guard Julius Jenkins and used a strong fourth quarter for the win. Even at 21 after 1Q, the teams went into halftime tied at 42 before the homestanding Giants edged ahead 57-55 after three. But Berlin powered to a lead in the 4Q and earned the hardfought road win over the Giants. Derrick Byers led Berlin with 18pt 4reb while Rashad Wright added 17pt, Adam Chubb 12pt 9reb and Immanuel McElroy 12pt in the win. On the Dusseldorf side, Brendan Winters buried 6 of 7 threes to topscore for the Giants with 20pt while Brant Bailey added 18pt and Eric Taylor 15pt 5 boards in the loss. ALBA shot 50% from the floor making 9 of 19 threes (47%) and 22 of 31 FT (71%) while Dusseldorf sank 42% of their shots including 10 of 27 threes (37%) and 11 of 14 FT (78%). With the win, Head coach Luka Pavicevic and his Berlin team improve to 23-7 while Dusseldorf falls to 8-22.

ARTLAND DRAGONS 66 EWE BASKETS OLDENBURG 52
Nathan Peavy finished with 18pt 5reb and Darren Fenn added 16pt 6reb leading Artland Dragons to a defensive-minded 66-52 home win over rival Ewe Baskets Oldenburg Saturday night at Artland Arena in Quakenbruck. Oldenburg took a 12-9 lead after 1Q but Artland battled back to even the score at 30 by halftime. Artland outscored Oldenburg 17-11 in the 3rd and edged ahead 47-41 after three. Continuing their run the Dragons extended their lead to 10, 62-52 with 2min to play before taking the 66-52 home win. Rickey Paulding was the lone Thunderbird in double figures with 14pt in the loss. As a team Artland shot 42% making 3 of 13 threes (23%) and 15 of 22 FT (68%) while outrebounding Oldenburg 38-26. Oldenburg hit 34% from the floor converting 5 of 23 threes (21%) and 13 of 20 FT (65%). Head coach Thorsten Liebenath and his Dragons upped their record to 16-14 while Oldenburg fell to 21-7.

EISBAREN BREMERHAVEN 76 DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS 74
Torrell Martin led Bremerhaven with 17pt 6reb, Jeff Gibbs added 14pt 8reb, Philipp Schwethelm contributed 14pt 5reb and Lou Campbell finished with 13pt 7ast as Eisbaren Bremerhaven edged Deutsche Bank Skyliners 76-74 Saturday night at Stadthalle Bremerhaven live on DSF TV. Bremerhaven outscored Frankfurt 20-10 in the 1Q but the Skyliners trimmed the deficit in Q2 and after Frankfurt's Quantez Robertson swished a halfcourt buzzer beater, Bremerhaven held a 39-32 halftime lead. Bremerhaven used a hot shooting attack to build a 62-47 advantage after 3Q. Frankfurt sparked a 4Q rally down the stretch and Derrick Allen's late basket pulled the Skyliners within 2, 76-74 with 15sec to play. After drawing a foul with 5sec remaining, Kevin Lyde missed 2FT and Frankfurt controlled the rebound giving themselves one final shot. Grayson Moyer pushed the ball up the sideline and shotfaked before firing a long three which frontrimmed at the buzzer giving Bremerhaven the important win. Head Coach Doug Spradley and his Eisbaren improved to 19-11 while Frankfurt fell to 18-12. Adding drama to the German Cup, the two teams meet for an immediate rematch next Saturday in the Top 4 at Ballsporthalle in Frankfurt.

BROSE BASKETS BAMBERG 73 EnBW LUDWIGSBURG 72
brose Baskets Bamberg started the game strong opening a 21-12 lead after the 1Q before taking a 40-30 advantage at halftime. After another strong quarter in the 3rd, Bamberg led 60-48 going into the 4th before Ludwigsburg fought back. With 45sec to play, a TJ Thompson FT brought Ludwigsburg within one at 69-68 but a big offensive rebound put back basket from Tibor Pleiss gave Bamberg a 71-68 lead with 25sec left. 2 TJ Thompson FT pulled Ludwigsburg within one once again at 71-70 with 19sec. Late in the game, two clutch Predrag Suput FT extended the Bamberg lead to 73-70 with 9sec left. After a smart foul from Bamberg, Ludwigsburg's Quadre Lollis sank 2FT bringing the hosts within 1. As the final buzzer sounded, Bamberg held on for the exciting 73-72 road win. As a team, Bamberg shot 42% making 7 of 20 threes (35%) and 18 of 20 FT (90%) while outrebounding Ludwigsburg 34-27 in the win. Ludwigsburg sank 43% from the floor including 7 of 26 threes (26%) and 15 of 19 FT (78%) in the loss. Head coach Chris Fleming and his Bamberg team upped their record to 19-11 while Ludwigsburg slipped to 15-13.

GOTTINGEN 79 PHOENIX HAGEN 67
Taylor Rochestie had 20pt 6reb 5ast in leading Gottingen Violets to a competitive 79-67 home win over Phoenix Hagen Saturday night at Lokhalle. Along with a strong game from Rochestie, Gottingen received 18pt 8reb from Chris Oliver and 17pt 7boards from Jason Boone in the win. Pushing their record to 13-0 at home in Lokhalle, the Violets led 15-14 after 1 and took a 36-32 advantage into halftime. Gottingen held a 55-54 lead after 3Q. Down the stretch, a Michael Jordan 3 evened the score at 67 before a Chris Oliver bucket regained a 69-67 lead for Gottingen with under 2min to play. A clutch late Taylor Rochestie 3 built a 72-67 cushion for the Violets and followed up with 2FT before Chris Oliver sealed the win from the foul line. Chase Griffin led Hagen with 20pt and Jonathan Kale added 11pt in the loss. As a team, Gottingen shot 34% making 6 of 18 threes (33%) and 20 of 31 FT (65%) while Hagen hit 44% from the floor including 8 of 19 threes (42%) and 15 of 22 FT (68%) in the loss. Head coach John Patrick and his Gottingen team raised their record to 20-8 while Hagen dropped to 7-22.

LTi Giessen 46ers 70 WALTER TIGERS TUBINGEN 68
Lorenzo Williams sank the game winning shot just before the buzzer lifting LTi Giessen 46ers to a thrilling 70-68 home win over Walter Tigers Tubingen Saturday night in Giessen. Picking up an important win in the 'Abstiegskampf' Giessen was led by Maurice Jeffers 22pt and Williams finished with 13pt including the game winner. Tubingen started strong opening a 27-23 lead after 1Q and holding a 46-35 lead at half. The Tigers held a 56-53 lead going into the 4th before Giessen went on a 9-2 mid4Q run to take a 64-60 lead with 4:45 remaining. Back to back baskets from Romeo Travis evened the score at 64 with 2:38 to play but Kevin Johnson regained the lead for Giessen with 2:18 left. 2Ft from Branislav Ratkovica evened the scoreboard at 66 with 2min before Kevin Johnson responded again with a basket lifting the 46ers to a 68-66 lead with 1:30 to play. Ratkovica answered for Tubingen evening the game 68-68 with 50sec to go. Stepping to the foul line with 15sec on the clock, Ratkovica came up empty on both free throws and Giessen raced up the floor. Osvaldo Jeanty was fouled with 5sec remaining. After a 46er timeout, Lorenzo Williams drew a foul with 3sec remaining. On the next inbound play, Williams sank the game winning two just before the buzzer lifting Giessen to the exciting 70-68 home win. Romeo Travis topscored for Tubingen with 17pt 7reb while Michael Jenkins added 14pt and Branislav Ratkovica finished with 13pt in the loss. As a team, Giessen shot 42% making 6 of 21 threes (28%) and 12 of 18 FT (67%) compared with Tubingen's 46% shooting with 5 of 18 threes (27%) and 11 of 18 FT (61%). The 46ers outrebounded the Tigers 39-30 in their victory. Head coach Vladi Bogojevic and his Giessen squad improved to 9-21 while Tubingen slipped to 14-16.

Monday April 5th, 2010
ratiopharm Ulm @ TBB Trier 5pm tip

MBC @ NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig 5pm tip


Ewe Baskets Oldenburg @ Phoenix Hagen 7pm tip


Germany U17 shoot down China at Albert Schwietzer Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Germany U17 - China U18 77:51
German U17 National Team held off China in the opening game at the Albert Schweitzer tournament for both teams. The prestigious tournament started today in Mannheim, Germany. Jacob Krumbeck (188-G-93) and Bogdan Radosavljevic (212-C-93) knocked down 15 points each to lead Germany to quite one-sided victory.
The hosts dominated from start to finish. Germany built a 19:11 lead at the first break. They tipped off the second term with four straight points to earn a 12-point lead. China managed to cut the distance at 10-point mark at halftime. Jacob Krumbeck exploded with back-to-back trebles midway through the third frame as Germany cleared off to a 43:31 lead. The hosts built a 53:35 lead at the final intermission. Germany began the final term with eight points in a row and never looked back en route to the victory.
Besnik Bekteshi (187-G-93) nailed 11 points for the winners. Shi Hongfei (180-G-93) responded with 18 points for China. Wang Pu (197-F-93) netted 8 points in the losing case. German U17 team will play versus New Zealand, while China will face Italy tomorrow.

Germany: Jacob Krumbeck 15, Bogdan Radosavljevic 15, Besnik Bekteshi 11
China: Shi Hongfei 18, Wang Pu 8


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


The Emus march past Greece - by Eurobasket News
Australia U18 - Greece U18 88:57

Australian U18 National team got to a victorious start of their Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany. The Emus coasted past Greece for the starting victory. Anthony Drmic (92) tallied 23 points and 11 rebounds to lead Australia.
The Emus opened the game with an 8:2 run to take the lead. The Hellenes answered with 9 points in a row to surge ahead. But Australia went on a 12:2 run to post a 22:13 advantage at the first break. Australia opened a 15-point lead midway through the second stanza. Soon Anthony Drmic gave the Emus a 21-point cushion and then sealed the halftime outcome at 49:29.
The teams traded baskets in the third stanza as Australia managed to maintain the buffer. They finished off their opponents in the fourth term and celebrated a comfortable victory. Mitchell Creek delivered 19 points for the Emus. Jackson Aldridge (G) netted 13 points in the win. Spiros Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) responded with 13 points for Greece. Anastasios Antonakis (204-C/F-92) and Linos Chrysikopoulos canned 10 points each in defeat. The Emus will face Israel, while Greece will look for the first win in the game against Spain.

Australia: Anthony Drmic 23+11 boards, Mitchell Creek 19, Jackson Aldridge 13
Greece: Spiros Motsenigos 13, Anastasios Antonakis 10, Linos Chrysikopoulos 10


Tomas Delininkaitis heads to Greece - by Eurobasket News
Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with PAOK. The 27-year-old guard is expected to change Branko Milisavljevic (193-G-76, agency: Beo Basket) on the roster. The Lithuanian guard started the season in CB Murcia. He averaged 7.6 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game in the ACB. Delininkaitis left the team in February. Last season the player spent in Ukraine. He tallied 17.3 points, 3.8 assists and 2.4 boards per game with Budivelnyk.


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


EiffelTowers to release headcoach Don Beck - by Claudia vanGorp
Due to insufficient results Eiffel Towers Den Bosch decided to release headcoach Don Beck

Don Beck was headcoach at Eiffel Towers Den Bosch since the season of 2008-2009 but was never able to coach the individually excellent players of Eiffel Towers Den Bosch towards championships or Dutch cups. Therefore Eiffel Towers Den Bosch decided to replace him by Maarten van Gent who recently worked for the Rotterdam Challengers

Maarten van Gent will make his first appearance for Eiffel Towers Den Bosch this monday as they will play against the Matrixx Magix Nijmegen



Tonight Eiffel Towers Den Bosch beat DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden by 79-89



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


IBL's Albany Legends announce training camp roster - by Trask Frost
International Basketball League's Albany Legends play on Friday April 9th hosting the Battle Creek Knights.
Albany Legends training camp roster:

Neil Edwards 6' 11' C 245 lbs York College '00 / NBDL, China
Damone Morris 6' 3' G 195 lbs Eckerd '08 / China
Lloyd Johnson 5' 11' 190 lbs G Schenectady County Community JC
Lloyd Clinton 6' 6' 205 lbs / ABA , USBL
Charles Henson 6' 9' 210 lbs F Iona '05 / Columbia
Chris Grant 6' 5' 210 lbs G ABA
Evan Lane 6' 8' 250 lbs PF St Rose '04 / Germany Shalke
Toby Smith 6' 9' 225lbs PF Connors State JC / CBA, Cypress Greece
DeAndre Thomas 6' 8' 295 lbs PF Indiana '08 / PBL
Marcus Snipes 6' 4' G 216 lbs Nassau Community JC
Prince Tai-shon Jackson 6' 6' 205 lbs G Dominican College / NPBL

Already (officially) on the team are the following players:
Godon Klaiber 6' 9' PF Fairleigh Dickinson '06 / PBL, CBA
Kenny Satterfield 6' 3' 185 lbs Cincinnati '01 / NBA Denver Nuggets , Philadelphia 76ers

For videos on the Legends team and for more informaiton, visit www.IBLhoopsonline.com



IBL's Holland Blast gets off to a 2-0 start in early season play - by Trask Frost
The Holland Blast got 2 wins over two Fridays at the Holland Civic Center with the second win coming last night. Both wins were against the visiting Kankakee County Soldiers. Despite playing two Fridays in a row, both teams will not meet again until Kankakee's final game of the season- Saturday June 19th. In game 1 last Friday- Rob Giles led the way for the Holland Blast with 29 points and 7 rebounds. Also chipping in for the Blast was Eddie Spencer with 21 Points and Jeremy File with 22 points (14 of the Jeremy File points were scored in a row to start off a third quarter rally). While the Holland Blast team was out rebounded by Kankakee, Holland- as a team knocked down fifteen 3-pointers in the game. Leading the way for the Kankakee County Soldiers in the loss was Stan Chismark with 31 points. One week later/ last night- also at the Holland Civic Center, the Holland Blast escaped another close game coming out victorious in the 4th quarter. Jeremy File was one rebound away from a triple double. File finished with 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 12 assists. The Blast team was led by Julius Vines and his eight 3-pointers (Vines finished with 30 Points). Deangelo Johnson also knocked down some late three pointers and ended up with 21 points. The Kankakee County Soldiers were led by Stan Chismark with 26 points and 6' 10' Shooting forward Erik Rinehart, in his first game back- with 22 points. The final score in that second game in two weeks- was 125-119 and the Blast is now 2-0 on the season. Both teams will play versus the USA All Stars on Saturday and Sunday April 3rd and 4th in Bourbanaise, Illinois.

For videos on the Holland Blast and for videos on the Kankakee County Soldiers, visit www.iblhoopsonline.com












Intra-City Classic game for the Tide - by Gianni Pascucci
The Seattle Mountaineers of the National Athletic Basketball League and the Tacoma Tide of the International Basketball league have partnered together for an exhibition game with some of the proceeds going to area youth sport programs. The Mountaineers and Tide organizations hope this mutual showing of good sportsmanship would be an example of how basketball organizations from different leagues can work together for the benefit of the Community.
The game will be televised on Comcast TV on Demand (delayed) throughout Western Washington State.
Place: Curtis High School, Tacoma, WA
Saturday, April 3, 2010 at 7:00pm


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  ICELAND   


Euro news - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Update on games with Icelandic pro players in Europe.
Jon Stefansson leading scorer in CB Granada win over Cajasol Sevilla 85-74 with 18 points and 3 rebs.
Logi Gunnarsson 7 pts + 1 assist in St Etienne loss to Le Puy 87-74.
Helgi Magnusson 9 points in Solna win over Sodertalje 78-61 in play-offs. Solna made it to play-offs final four and will meet Norrkoping.
Sundsvall Dragons lost last 2 games in the play-offs against Uppsala, first 67-72 at home where Jakob Sigurdarson scored 20 points and then in Uppsala 80-66. Sigurdarson 12 pts 4 rebs & 4 assist. Sundsvall out in play-offs.

Keflavik & Njardvik in semifinals - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Keflavik and Njardvik won their odd games against Tindastoll and Stjarnan and will meet each other in final four of play-offs. In the other game is KR vs. Snaefell.
Keflavik beat Tindastoll 107-78. Leading the game from beginning.
Top scorer for Keflavik. Sigurdur Thorsteinsson 21 Uruele Igbavboa 18. Hordur Vilhjalmsson 16. For Tindastoll Helgi Viggosson 24 Cedric Isom 17.
Stjarnan-Njardvik was a close one in first half and hometeam leading by 1 at halftime. Third quarter was a bad one for Stjarnan. In first half Jovan Zdravevski was hot with 22 points
Final score 72-88.
Top scorer for Stjarnan Jovan Zdravevski 23. Justin Shouse 20.
For Njardvik Fridrik Stefansson. Magnus Gunnarsson 20 Johann Olafsson 20 for Njardvik

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


Spain prevail against Israel at Albert Schwitzer Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - Israel U18 84:56

Spanish Junior team celebrated the victory at the start of the Albert Schwitzer Tournament. They cruised past Israeli counterparts today. Joan Creus (184-G-92) fired 20 points to pace Spain.
Spaniards got to a flying start. They knocked down 27 points in the first quarter to earn a 5-point lead. Spain continued to dominate in the second term. Spain unloaded 23 points in the second stanza taking a 14-point halftime advantage. The leaders did not slow down in the third stanza. Spain boosted the gap at 24-point mark heading into the fourth period. Israel could not win at least one quarter and had to surrender at the end.
Angel Aparicio (199-F-92) nailed 18 points and grabbed 7 boards for Spain. Albert Ventura (199-F-92) had 14 points in the victory. Tomer Beraven and Sean Labanowski (198-F-92) replied with 10 points each for Israel. Noam Laish provided 9 points in the loss. Spain will take on Greece, while Israel will face Australia tomorrow.

Spain: Joan Creus 20, Angel Aparicio 18, Albert Ventura 14
Israel: Tomer Beraven 10, Sean Labanowski 10


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


Italy open Albert Schweitzer Tournament with victory - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - New Zealand U18 83:56

Italian Junior NT tipped off their Albert Schweitzer Tournament campaign with a cruising win against New Zealand. Andrea Traini (178-G-92) scored 18 points to lead the effort. Marco Ceron (190-G-92) added 16 points for the winners.
The teams traded baskets early in the game before Italy went on a 12:0 run to earn an 18:7 lead. They wrapped up the opening frame leading by 8 points 23:15. Marco Ceron opened a double digit lead for Italy early in the second period but the Junior Tall Blacks stayed close. Jordan Ngatai and Max Williams dragged New Zealand within 4 points. Italy won the first half 41:37. The Azzurri triggered a 16:2 rally early in the third quarter to clear off. They limited their opponents to just 3 points in the quarter and posted a comfortable 63:40 advantage at the final break. New Zealand began the final frame with four points in a row but Italy quickly stopped the bleeding and raced to the win at the end.
Giovanni Pini (203-F/C-92) produced 15 points for Italy. Max Williams responded with 15 points for New Zealand. Stefan Mandic (178-G-92) had 12 points in the loss.

Italy: Andrea Traini 18, Marco Ceron 16, Giovanni Pini 15
New Zealand: Max Williams 15, Stefan Mandic 12


Standings - SerieA
SerieA Standings
 1. Montepaschi 23-1 
 2. Sigma Coat. 16-8 
 3. CS Bologna 16-8 
 4. Pepsi Caserta 15-9 
 5. Armani MI 15-9 
 6. NGC Cantu 15-9 
 7. Lottomatica 13-11 
 8. Air AV 13-11 
 9. Benetton TV 12-12 
 10. Cimberio VA 10-14 
 11. Banca Tercas 10-14 
 12. Angelico BI 9-15 
 13. Vanoli CR 9-15 
 14. Scavolini PS 8-16 
 15. Carife FE 8-16 
 16. NSB Napoli 0-24 


Alex Acker leaves Armani Jeans - by Eurobasket News
Armani Jeans have agreed on terms of contract termination with Alex Acker (196-G-83, college: Pepperdine). The 27-year-old guard joined Armani Jeans at the start of the season. Alex Acker tallied 8.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists per Euroleague game. In Seria A the guard notched 9.3 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.4 assists per appearance. Last season Alex Acker played in the NBA. He spent six games with the Pistons and 17 games with the Clippers.


SerieA Round: 24 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
CS Bologna - Carife FE 68-63
Bologna held off Carife Ferrara at home court. Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) and Andre Collins accounted for 12 points each in the win. David Moss and Riccardo Moraschini added 10 points apiece for the hosts. Anthony Grundy responded with 21 points for Ferrara. Sharrod Ford had 15 points, 15 rebounds and 7 blocks against his former teammates.

Lottomatica - Sigma Coat. 75-72
Lottomatica Roma climbed at 13-11 record after a home win against Montegranaro. Jacopo Giachetti (191-G-83) knocked down 21 points to lead the hosts. Ibrahim Jaaber added 14 points and 5 assists for Lottomatica. Demian Filloy answered with 15 points for Montegranaro.

NGC Cantu - Pepsi Caserta 81-72
NGC Cantu prevailed against Pepsi Caserta before the home fans. Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) scored 24 points to pace Cantu. Vladimir Micov finished with 14 points, 8 assists and 5 rebounds in the win. Fabio De Bella responded with 15 points for Juvecaserta.

NSB Napoli - Armani MI 47-157
Armani Jeans outgunned Napoli on the road. Giacomo Cacace (193-G-93) scored 32 points to lead the effort. Jonas Maciulis added 26 points and 8 rebounds, whle Jeffrey Viggiano finished with 23 points for the winners. Riccardo Ciavarroni answered with 13 points for Napoli.

Benetton TV - Angelico BI 72-70
Sandro Nicevic knocked down a late jumper to propel Benetton to a narrow home win against Angelico Biella. K.C. Rivers (196-G/F-87, college: Clemson) stepped up with 21 points to lead the Treviso outfit. Donatas Motiejunas contributed 18 points and 6 rebounds for Benetton. Kieron Achara responded with 20 points and 6 caroms for Angelico Biella.

Air AV - Banca Tercas 102-90
Air Avellino prevailed against Banca Tercas at home court. Riccardo Cortese (197-G-86) scored 20 points to lead the way for the home side. Cenk Akyol added 19 points, while Dee Brown distributed 16 assists for the winners. Drake Diener responded with 21 points in the loss for Teramo.

Vanoli CR - Scavolini PS 98-94
Vanoli Cremona needed two overtimes to tame visiting Scavolini Spar Pesaro. Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's (CA)) scored 21 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the home team. Marko Milic contributed 15 points and 8 rebounds in thrilling victory. Michael Hicks responded with game-high 29 points for Scavolini. Eric Williams had 26 points and 18 rebounds in defeat.

Cimberio VA - Montepaschi 72-96
Montepaschi experienced little problems against Cimberio in Varese. Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) led balanced effort with 16 points. Shaun Stonerook contributed 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for Siena. Marko Tusek responded with 24 points for Varese.


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  JAPAN   


JBL Round: 1 (Semi-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Aishin - Hitachi S. 66-61
Aishin won the first Semifinal game over Hitachi 66:61. Traling 18-26 after the opening quarter the winner of the Regular Season bounced back later in the game and won the opener. J.R. Sakuragi (206-C-76, college: UCLA) paced all the winners with 23 points and Kashiwagi Shinsuke scored 18. Takeuchi Joji responded with 16 points 12 rebounds in defeat.

Tochigi Brex - Panasonic 81-91
Tochigi Brex lost the opener to Panasonic 81:91. The latter got 20 points from Jerald Honeycutt (205-F-74, college: Tulane), while Kinoshita Hiroyuki and Onishi Takanori posted 18 each. Merritt Scott delivered 18 points in the losing effort.


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


LBL Standing
LBL Standings
 1. Barons 18-4 
 2. Valmiera 10-12 
 3. Liepaja 10-12 
 4. VEF Riga 7-3 
 5. Ventspils 6-4 
 6. Zemgale 3-19 
 7. Keizarmezs 0-18 


Standings - LBAL
LBL D2 Standings
 1. Turiba 20-8 
 2. DSN Riga 20-8 
 3. Ventspils Aug. 17-10 
 4. BS Ogre 16-12 
 5. Barons/Ridzene 14-14 
 6. Saldus 13-14 
 7. Livani 8-20 
 8. ASK/Buki 3-25 


LBL Round: 16 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Valmiera - Liepaja 91-80
Valmiera finished the regular season with a home win against Liepaja. Janis Kaufmanis (185-G-89) scored 22 points to lead the hosts. Kaspars Graudins contributed 16 points in the winning effort. Jevgenijs Kosuskins (200-F-77) delivered 19 points for Liepaja.

VEF Riga - Barons 72-90
Barons breezed past VEF Riga in the final game of the regular season. Rinalds Sirsnins (186-G-85, agency: Promotex) came up with 24 points, 5 assists and 4 boards for Barons. Martins Skirmants provided 19 points for the winners. Ivan Nelyubov responded with 22 points for VEF Riga. Alex Renfroe had 18 points and 10 assists in defeat.

Barons - Liepaja 79-62
Barons shot down visiting Liepaja. Oritseweyinmi Efejiku notched 20 points for the winners. Rinalds Sirnins had 16 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for Barons. Edgars Jeromanovs answered with 23 points and 5 assists for the Lauvas.

Liepaja - Valmiera 74-69
Liepaja shot down visiting Valmiera as Jevgenijs Kosuskins notched 17 points. Laimis Kisielius added 16 points for the winners. Daviin Davis responded with 22 points for Valmiera.


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


Final 6 schedule (Retour) - by Maarouf Mawloud
Round 1:
Tuesday 06/04/10 Hoops Club V/S Al Moutahed Tripoli (18:00 - Murr court)
Tuesday 06/04/10 Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut V/S Kahraba Zouk (19:00 - Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut court)
Tuesday 06/04/10 Champville V/S Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut (20:00 - Champville court)

Round 2:
Thursday 08/04/10 Kahraba Zouk V/S Hoops Club (19:00 - Kahraba Zouk court)
Thursday 08/04/10 Al Moutahed Tripoli V/S Champville (21:45 - SAFADI SPORT CENTER)
Thursday 08/04/10 Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut V/S Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut (21:45 - Ghazir court)

Round 3:
Saturday 10/04/10 Champville V/S Kahraba Zouk (18:00 - Champville court)
Sunday 11/04/10 Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut V/S Al Moutahed Tripoli (18:00 - Ghazir court)
Sunday 11/04/10 Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut V/S Hoops Club (18:00 - Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut court)

Round 4:
Tuesday 13/04/10 Hoops Club V/S Champville (17:00 - Murr court)
Tuesday 13/04/10 Al Moutahed Tripoli V/S Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut (18:00 - SAFADI SPORT CENTER)
Tuesday 13/04/10 Kahraba Zouk V/S Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut (20:00 - Kahraba Zouk court)

Round 5:
Thursday 15/04/10 Al Moutahed Tripoli V/S Kahraba Zouk (19:00 - SAFADI SPORT CENTER)
Thursday 15/04/10 Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut V/S Hoops Club (21:45 - Ghazir court)
Thursday 15/04/10 Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut V/S Champville (21:45 - Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut court)

Tough Lost Tonite.... - by Enique Clemons
Tough lost tonite bt my guyz played hard... In 19 games we (Hoops Club) are 11-8 an currently in fourth place which nobody expected which is a great thing bcause u bcome the hunter not the hunted.. Bt now were the hunted every team is gunning for Hoops Club bcuz we have established ourselves as a young team thats gonna fight win or loose.... We won a big game wednesday against one of the premier teams in the league an then turn back around acouple dayz later an lost tonite against a team that has internal problems an not living up to itz great tradition bt they were the better team tonite congrats guyz! This is a sign of our young charactor that we as a team are trying to break to bcome more stable within ourselves to believe we can lose any game an win any game at the same time... I take FULL responsibility for the lost bcuz im an important part to this team an when we loose i take it upon my shoulders to do better th nxt game...I will b much better come tuesday against the only team i personally haven't beatin yet so far this season! I am hard on myself as much as my president an coach are on me bt i love to be in that situation bcuz ONLY DA STRONG SURVIVE an i dt mind felling as long as i can learn to reset an try again the next time....I'm bloggin an venting at the same time so bare with me on this im new to this blogging thing....
There are 5 more games to solidify our positon in final 4 then off to the playoffs were anything can happen! Tune in to the after games thoughts an if any questions or comments i'd be more than happy to answer.... Til nxt time im out!

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


LKL Round: 31 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas - Zalgiris 90-81
Lietuvos Rytas won the LKL regular season. They defeated Zalgiris in the final round before playoffs to clinch the top spot. Igor Milosevic (193-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) scored 20 points and dished out 9 assists for Lietuvos Rytas. Martynas Gecevicius added 17 points in the winning effort. Dainius Salenga responded with 20 points for Zalgiris. Marcus Brown and Travis Watson finished with 11 points apiece in the loss.

Siauliai - Suduva 103-77
Siauliai coasted past Suduva as Mindaugas Kuzminskas (204-F-89) scored 23 points. Derrick Low added 16 points and 11 assists for the home side. Nerijus Varnelis had 20 points for Suduva. Raimundas Danys chipped in 13 points in the loss.

Techasas - Sakalai 87-90
Sakalai stole a road win against Techasas. Virginijus Sirvydis (196-G/F-73) produced 21 points, 5 assists and 4 rebounds for Sakalai. Mindaugas Budzinauskas, Gintaras Leonavicius and Rolandas Matulis finished with 14 points each. Laimonas Lukosevicius posted 20 points and 5 assists for Techasas.

Siauliai - Nevezis 99-79
Siauliai wrapped up the regular season on a high note as they cruised past Nevezis. Raitis Grafs (208-C-81, college: Valparaiso) scored 16 points and pulled down 8 rebounds as Siauliai clinched the third spot. Mindaugas Kuzminskas added 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Paulius Belevicius responded with 23 points for Nevezis.

Alytus Alita - Nevezis 84-71
Alytus recorded the sixth win in the season edging Nevezis. Andrius Aleksandrovas (197-G-86) scored 34 points and made 7 steals to lead the hosts. Vilius Sumskis had 15 points for the winners. Nevezis answered with 16 points and 14 rebounds from Egidijus Dimsa.

Juventus - Rudupis 76-71
Virginijus Praskevicius (206-C/F-74) scored 23 points and collected 20 rebounds to lead Juventus past Rudupis. Gintautas Matulis added 13 points as Juventus finished the regular season in the fourth position. Valdas Dabkus and Gediminas Orelikas accounted for 15 points each in defeat.


Standings - LKL
LKL Standings
 1. Lietuvos Rytas 23-1 
 2. Zalgiris 22-2 
 3. Siauliai 19-5 
 4. Juventus 13-11 
 5. Neptunas 11-13 
 6. Techasas 11-13 
 7. Rudupis 11-13 
 8. Perlas 11-13 
 9. Sakalai 10-14 
 10. Suduva 8-16 
 11. Alytus Alita 6-18 
 12. Nevezis 6-18 
 13. Aisciai 5-19 


Perlas gets Laurynas Samenas - by Deivis Valiunas
Perlas Vilnius  announced signing of Laurynas Samenas  (192-G-88) for next two seasons.The 21-year old point guard is comming to Perlas Vilnius Vilnius from other Lithuania club - Sakalai Vilnius. Samenas appeared 18 times with Perlas Vilnius Vilnius in Lithuania league averaging 12.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists. In BBL, he had 13.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 3.2 ast for 6 games. Last Season Samenas notched 9.6 points and 2.5 boards in LKL.

The guard has also played in VKM-Perlas Vilnius and Siauliai.

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  MONTENEGRO   


Transfers : Danilovgrad inks new coach and Vranjes , ABS landed Zoran Kascelan, Andirja Pejovic in Sutjeska - by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Club Danilovgrad singed contract to the end of season whit new Coach Borivoje Stanisic ho replace old coach Milatovic and ex basketball player of Basketball Club Hercegovac from Bileca Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88).
Basketball Club ABS Primorje from Herceg Novi and DELFI SMG Basketball announced that club singed contract to the end of season with ex basketball player of Basketball Club Mladost MG Zoran Kascelan (190-G-86).
Basketball Club Sutjeska from Niksic and DELFI SMG Basketball announced that club singed contract to the end of season whit ex basketball player od Basketball Club Hercegovac from Bileca Andrija Pejovic (205-C-83).

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  NABL   


Intra-City Classic game for the Tide - by Gianni Pascucci
The Seattle Mountaineers of the National Athletic Basketball League and the Tacoma Tide of the International Basketball league have partnered together for an exhibition game with some of the proceeds going to area youth sport programs. The Mountaineers and Tide organizations hope this mutual showing of good sportsmanship would be an example of how basketball organizations from different leagues can work together for the benefit of the Community.
The game will be televised on Comcast TV on Demand (delayed) throughout Western Washington State.
Place: Curtis High School, Tacoma, WA
Saturday, April 3, 2010 at 7:00pm


Salem hosts Snohomish County Explosion at home this weekend - by Gianni Pascucci
Salem, the league's top ranked team will try to remain perfect with a win over Snohomish County this Saturday in Salem. Stampedes Antone Jarrell (6'7''-F, college: Portland St.) (23 points per game) and Mike Tabb (6'6''-G/F-82, college: San Jose City JC) (22 points per game), led the team in scoring last Saturday against Seattle and with Ryan Schmidt (6'6''-F-84, college: W.Oregon) (McNary, Western Oregon) and Cameron Mitchell (6'7''-F/C, college: Willamette) (Willamette University) both adding 17 points apiece. Salem has a lot of weapons for the visiting team from Washington State. This is the first game of the season for the Explosion who are 0-1 lifetime between the organizations and in 2007 Salem came into the Everett Events Center and handed the Explosion (of Everett) the first franchise loss. It has been three years and the Explosion organization has won every team they have played except for the Stampede. We really want to get off on a good foot this year and want to get this win to start the season, said GM Sean Keck of the Explosion.

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  NBA   


Los Angeles Lakers sign star Kobe Bryant to 3-year contract extension worth nearly $90 million - by Eurobasket News
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) signed a three-year contract extension Friday worth nearly $90 million that will keep him with the Los Angeles Lakers through the 2013-14 season.

The deal will begin after next season. Bryant is making $23 million this season and is due to earn $24.8 million next season.

'It's very rare to have a player play his entire career in one city, so I'm very excited,' he said after the Lakers beat Utah 106-92.

Bryant could earn $27.4 million in 2011-12, $30.2 million the following season and more than $32 million in his final year, when he would be 35.

Asked if it would be his last contract, Bryant replied, 'I doubt it, but it's possible.'

The deal means the Lakers achieved two main objectives going into the season signing Bryant and 7-foot center Pau Gasol to extensions.

'We were able to accomplish those goals, helping to keep the core of this team intact for the foreseeable future and in turn help to ensure the franchise's continued success over the years to come,' general manager Mitch Kupchak said.

Gasol signed his own three-year extension in December that extends through the 2013-14 season. He is making $16.5 million this season and $17.8 million next year. His new deal likely will pay him around $20 million per season.

'It's a great thing,' Gasol said about Bryant's deal. 'I really had no doubt he was going to get it done. It makes all of us happy.'

Kupchak said Gasol's signing was a factor in Bryant staying on.

'It's a great compliment that I had an influence on Kobe wanting to re-sign,' the Spaniard said.

The 31-year Bryant could have terminated the last two years of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent last July. He also had the option to become a free agent this summer.

He said he had no thoughts about going elsewhere even while speculation had suggested otherwise.

'I knew I was going to be here,' he said.

Kupchak said neither side wanted the negotiations to extend into the playoffs, which begin April 17 when the Lakers open defense of their NBA championship.

'My position all along is that Kobe started as a Laker and he should end his career as a Laker,' he said. 'We're fairly assured now that he will end his career as a Laker. Of course in four years, he'll be 35-years-old and maybe we'll go do this again or there'll be an option for him to do something else.'

Bryant is averaging 27.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.1 assists this season. He's helped the Lakers win four NBA titles, including last season when he was the Finals MVP.

The 12-time All-Star was voted league MVP in 2008, when he helped the U.S. win a gold medal in the Beijing Olympics. This season, he moved past Jerry West to become the Lakers' career scoring leader.

'Good news,' coach Phil Jackson said. 'I expected that Kobe would sign. It's a good choice for him and the organization.'

Jackson said Bryant's deal has no impact on his own possible extension. Jackson plans to evaluate his future after the season ends, when he'll have his annual checkup. He turns 65 in September.

'I personally sat down with Phil and indicated I'd love to have him back,' Kupchak said. 'It really falls into his lap and his timeline.'

Bryant said he enjoys playing for Jackson and told him Friday that he 'would love to see him come back.'

Courtesy of www.sfexaminer.com


Friday's games (10) review - by Eurobasket News
Orlando M. - San Antonio S. 100-112
Manu Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) scored a season-high 43 points, his fourth 30-plus game since replacing Tony Parker in the starting lineup last month, and the San Antonio Spurs completed a weeklong sweep of the Eastern Conference's three division leaders with a 112-100 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night. Tim Duncan (6'10''-F-76, college: Wake Forest) added 23 points and 8 rebounds. Mickael Pietrus collected 18 points and 6 boards in loss.

New York K. - Golde State W. 117-128
Anthony Morrow (6'5''-G-85) scored a season-high 35 points and Reggie Williams (6'5''-G/F-86, agency: Interperformances, college: VMI) added 23 to move Nelson a step closer to the mark. He has seven games left this season to tie and break Wilkens' mark of 1,332. David Lee exploded on the other side with monster triple-double of 37 points, 20 rebounds and 10 assists.

Utah Jazz - LA Lakers 92-106
Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) finished with a season-high 26 points and 10 rebounds, and Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) had 25 points, going 15 of 18 from the free throw line, hours after the defending NBA champions announced he signed a three-year contract extension worth nearly $90 million. Carlos Boozer collected 20 points and 18 rebounds in defeat.

Atlanta H. - Cleveland C. 88-93
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) scored 27 points and Cleveland entered an elite fraternity with its 60th win by scoring 14 straight points in the fourth quarter to pull away and beat the Atlanta Hawks 93-88 on Friday night. Maurice Williams (6'1''-G-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Alabama) added 24 points. The Hawks got 20 points and 7 rebounds from Josh Smith.

Phoenix Suns - Detroit P. 109-94
Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) shined with 29 points and 6 rebounds, Jared Dudley (6'7''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) added a career-high 20 points, hitting 6-of-7 3-pointers, and Grant Hill had 17 against the team where he started his career. The Suns finished with 15 3-pointers on 29 attempts, while Detroit was just 2 of 11. Ben Gordon scored 21 for Detroit.

N.Orleans H. - Memphis G. 96-107
With elimination from the playoffs approaching, the Memphis Grizzlies still have a goal of finishing with a winning record. The Grizzlies boosted those hopes Friday night, as O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87, college: USC) scored 27 points and Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) added 20 in a 107-96 victory over the New Orleans Hornets. Marcus Thornton replied with 19 points and 5 rebounds in loss.

Milwaukee B. - Charlotte B. 86-87 OT
Stephen Jackson (6'8''-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC) scored 32 points and hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with a minute left in overtime, then Tyson Chandler batted teammate Raymond Felton (6'5''-G-84, college: N.Carolina) 's missed shot to midcourt in the closing seconds to preserve the Bobcats' 87-86 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night. Felton added 12 points and 6 assists. On the other side, the hosts got 28 points, 5 boards and 5 assists from John Salmons.

Miami Heat - Indiana P. 105-96 OT
Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) scored 43 points, including eight in overtime, to lead the Heat to their sixth straight victory, 105-96 over the Indiana Pacers on Friday night. Michael Beasley (6'9''-F-89, college: Kansas St.) and Dorell Wright followed him with 12 and 11 points respectively. Each of them had 7 rebounds. Troy Murphy replied with 29 points and 15 rebounds in defeat.

Chicago B. - Washington W. 95-87
Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) was a key player in victory with 24 points and 5 assists. Taj Gibson (6'9''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: USC) secured a great help as he added 14 points and 16 boards. On the other side, Andray Blatche replied with 18 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists for the Wizards.

Houston R. - Boston C. 119-114 OT
Luis Scola (6'9''-F/C-80) had 27 points and 11 rebounds, making back-to-back baskets in the last 81 seconds, and the Houston Rockets scored the last 10 points of overtime Friday night to beat Boston 119-114 and send the Celtics to their third consecutive home loss. Aaron Brooks (6'0''-G-85, agency: Buck Andre, college: Oregon) had 30 points and 9 assists, while Chase Budinger added 24 pts and 5 rebs. Paul Pierce had 27 points for the Celtics.


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  NCAA1   


Purdue, Painter agree to new contract through 2016-17 season - by Eurobasket News
Purdue coach Matt Painter knows his new contract is about much more than his own financial security.

It's about security for recruits.

Painter has signed a new contract that will keep him leading the Boilermakers through the 2016-17 season. Purdue said Friday that it gives Painter a $1.3 million base salary, plus up to $1 million of incentives for academic, athletic and attendance performance.

Painter said he's been working on the deal with the school 'for a while,' and he's glad to get it done.

'When kids are making early decisions, if they can get past their senior years and know the coach still has four or five years -- that's all they really want to know,' he said. 'We've been able to prove that with this contract.'

Painter has a 112-56 record in five seasons at Purdue. The Boilermakers went 29-6 and shared the Big Ten regular season title this season, winning two games in the NCAA tournament before a 70-57 loss to Duke in the Sweet 16. The Boilermakers tied the school record for wins while winning their first regular-season championship since 1996.

The previous season, Purdue claimed its first-ever conference tournament crown en route to its first Sweet 16 appearance in almost a decade.

Athletic director Morgan Burke said the team has made positive strides each year under Painter and that the new contract shows a belief that 'the best days for this program are yet to come.'

Painter said the deal is retroactive to July 1.

Purdue was expected to contend for a spot in the Final Four before star forward Robbie Hummel went down with a torn ACL in his right knee. After Hummel's injury, Purdue was a popular pick to lose to Siena in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The Boilermakers beat Siena and Texas A&M before losing to Duke.

'I think it would have been a disappointing season if we hadn't continued to play hard and try our best,' Painter said. 'I think our guys, with all the adversity, continued to play hard, didn't make excuses and went out there and continued to win games.

As Painter prepared to be an assistant coach for a college all-star game at Lucas Oil Stadium on Friday, the site of the Final Four, he thought about the opportunity lost.

'I feel bad for our seniors,' he said. 'You can always play the 'what if' game. We could have gotten here, but you never know, with the injury to Rob.'

Painter likes the attitude his players took into the NCAA tournament. With the team's top three players -- Hummel, JaJuan Johnson and E'Twaun Moore -- expected to return for their senior seasons, Painter thinks the Boilermakers could be in a good position again next year.

'The fact that we've been able to have a little success and we've been able to build on it makes our players, our coaches, everybody excited about trying to win some more games and trying to graduate our players,' Painter said.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Royce Woolridge leads USA past Croatia - by Eurobasket News
USA U18 - Croatia U18 71:69
USA eked out a tough victory over Croatia at the start of the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany. The United State juniors had to withstand a fierce comeback effort from the Croats in the final stanza to snatch a narrow win. Royce Woolridge came up with 18 points to lead the charge.
Croatia led by Roko Rogic (6'2''-G-92) got to the better start. They earned a 19:16 lead at the first break. But the North American team recovered in the second frame. They limited Croatia to 13 points and established an 8-point buffer at halftime 40:32. The USA controlled the rhythm in the third stanza. They strengthened their advantage entering the final stanza up by 10 points. Croatia did not surrender though and put up a reckless fight in the final minutes. The European team almost denied the deficit before losing the game in the dying moments. Ryan Boatright nailed 12 points and issued 4 assists in the win. Mike Chandler delivered 10 points and 8 boards for the USA. Roko Rogic responded with 19 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for Croatia. Boris Barac (6'8''-F-92) netted 14 points in the loss.

USA: Royce Woolridge 18, Ryan Boatright 12, Mike Chandler 10
Croatia: Roko Rogic 19, Boris Barac 14


Butler does it - again, beating Michigan State 52-50 to advance to Monday night's title game - by Eurobasket News
Kansas - gone.

Kentucky - gone.

Syracuse - gone.

Little Butler - still going.

How's that for a Hollywood hoops script. Call it 'Hoosiers,' the sequel.

Gordon Hayward had 19 points and nine rebounds, including one with 2 seconds left that sealed the game. The small school looked anything but, taking down another of college basketball's biggest names with a 52-50 victory over Michigan State in the Final Four on Saturday night.

Butler (33-4) will play No. 1 seed Duke, a 78-57 winner over West Virginia, in Monday night's title game. In the Bulldogs' hometown, no less.

'We've been talking about the next game all year, and it's great to be able to say the next game's for a national championship,' Hayward said.

The entire Hoosier state is along for the ride. Indiana and Purdue may be the state's traditional basketball powerhouses, but it's little Butler enrollment 4,200 that's big time now.

'If I was not playing, I'd be a Butler fan,' Michigan State coach Tom Izzo said. 'I like they way they play, I like their story. They play like a Big Ten team.'

Michigan State (28-9) has been living on the edge all tournament, ravaged by injuries and squeaking through game after game, and this night was no different. After trailing by as much as seven in the second half, Draymond Green made a pair of free throws to pull Michigan State within 50-49 with 56 seconds left.

Ronald Nored missed a jumper, and Michigan State got the rebound. But Hayward wouldn't give the driving Green an inch, forcing him to put up an awkward layup that didn't come close. Nored scooped up the rebound, and Green had no choice but to foul him, ending the big fella's game.

Nored, who had been just 3 for 12 from the line in the tournament, made both, and the Bulldogs had a 52-49 lead with 6 seconds to play.

'One thing about us is there's never a sense of fear,' Nored said. 'We're confident in everything we do.'

After a timeout, the Spartans inbounded the ball and Butler was all over them, choosing to foul rather than take a chance on the Spartans getting off a 3 like they did to beat Maryland at the buzzer. Korie Lucious made the first and bricked the second as Hayward came up with the ball to seal the victory and set off a party the likes of which Indiana hasn't seen since tiny Milan beat Muncie Central for the state title in 1954, the real-life inspiration for 'Hoosiers.'

'I don't know if I got a piece of the ball, maybe a piece of his arm,' Hayward said. 'I'm just glad we got that last stop.'

Although the Bulldogs are no plucky underdog, there's no doubting the connections between 'Hoosiers' and Butler's magical run. In the movie, the final score was 42-40. The actual Milan final score 32-30.

And Saturday night, 52-50, extending the nation's best winning streak to 25 and counting.

Watching it all unfold was Bobby Plump, whose buzzer-beating jumper gave Milan the win.

'I met more people tonight that said they graduated from Butler than seems possible,' said Plump, who went on to play at Butler. 'But it's a magical time, so who knows?'

And it gets better with each game.

Butler knocked off top-seeded Syracuse and followed with a victory over No. 2 seed Kansas State last weekend, the only Final Four team to beat the top two seeded teams in its region.

Just as Butler coach Brad Stevens did against the Orange and Wildcats, he found Michigan State's weakness and went after it. The offense-by-committee that had worked well enough without injured Kalin Lucas, who led the Spartans in scoring until blowing out his left Achilles' tendon in the second-round victory over Maryland, fell apart against the Bulldogs.

Durrell Summers, who had averaged 20 points in Michigan State's first four tournament games, was held to 14. Green had 12 as did Lucious, who was playing in place of Lucas. Senior Raymar Morgan, who spent most of the game in foul trouble, finished with just four points.

Butler also forced fellow No. 5 seed Michigan State into 16 turnovers and held the Spartans to zero yes, zero fast-break points. The Bulldogs outrebounded Michigan State on the offensive glass, 11 to 8.

'We had our chances to win the game, no matter what the circumstances, how many injuries, how many guys we had in foul trouble,' Izzo said. 'We just couldn't get in rhythm with anything.'

Perhaps most shocking, Butler outmuscled the bigger, bulkier Spartans and have the battle scars to prove it. Hayward had a bloody lip by the time the night was over. Matt Howard got knocked silly in a collision with Green. Shelvin Mack spent most of the second half on the bench with cramps in his legs, and Stevens was unsure of his availability for Monday.

'It was one of the more physical games we've been involved in,' Izzo said. 'Playing in the Big Ten, that's a lot to say.'

Want to know what The Butler Way is? Just watch a tape of this game.

It wasn't the prettiest of finishes. Butler went almost 11 minutes without a field goal after Willie Veasley's layup with 12:19 left and it almost seemed as if the first team to score a basket was going to win.

But the Bulldogs weren't flustered to be playing on the game's biggest stage and locked down whenever they had to.

'It did seem like it was a long time,' said Hayward, who had only six points in the second half. 'But for us, as long as we guard, we feel like we can be in the game. That's what we've tried to do all year.'

The finish was a bitter disappointment for the Spartans, who were playing in their sixth Final Four in 12 years and had hoped to get back to the national title game after being routed by North Carolina in Detroit last year. Instead, they'll have to watch another group of local boys delight the hometown fans. No team has won the national title in their home state since UCLA in 1975, when the Final Four was down the road from Westwood in San Diego.

When Hayward came up with that final rebound, Lucas Oil Stadium shook, the kind of celebration usually reserved for Peyton Manning.

'We didn't get it done,' Izzo said. 'I thought the physical play bothered us that surprised me.'

Or maybe all those injuries simply caught up to the Spartans.

'You keep putting yourself on the edge of a cliff, you're not going be able to stand on it long,' Delvon Roe said.

The biggest loss, of course, was Lucas, Michigan State's point guard and the 2009 Big Ten player of the year. But Chris Allen has a bad foot, and Roe is playing on a torn meniscus in his right knee, so painful he says it's like someone's doing surgery on him while he's playing.

As if those weren't big enough holes to fill, the Spartans were fighting foul trouble all night. Morgan, the lone senior starter, played just eight minutes the first half after picking up three fouls, and was shuffling in and out all second half. Roe also finished the game with four fouls.

'That was probably the biggest problem with our game today. We just couldn't get into a rhythm because we had too many people in foul trouble,' Roe said. 'When you've got so many people in foul trouble, you can't play as aggressively as you would like to on defense and even on offense, you're scared to shove a guy or make a move, because you're afraid to make a foul.'

With a baby face, Hayward easily could be mistaken for a fictional Jimmy Chitwood. But this kid is the real deal and could play on any team, big or small. He can shoot inside, outside, and he's not afraid to do the dirty work, leading Butler with nine rebounds.

If not for his and Mack's play in the first half, the Bulldogs would be heading back to their dorm rooms instead of a downtown hotel.

Hayward scored Butler's first four field goals, and he and Mack were the only Bulldogs to make anything from the field in the first half. Veasley? He was 0-for-2. Nored? Didn't even get off a shot. The mustached Howard? He took a seat six minutes into the game after getting whistled for his second foul.

Yet the Bulldogs managed to hang with the Spartans, going into halftime tied at 28 after Mack's 3 with 35 seconds left.

The second half belonged to Butler and its defense.

'We might not have believed it when we said it in our first team meeting in the fall, but if we focus and do our jobs, then why can't we play for a national championship?' Butler coach Brad Stevens said. 'That's been our focus all along. I walked out of that room and I kind of thought, 'I hope we'll get a chance to do this.' This is a great story.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Duke beats West Virginia 78-57; back in title game - by Eurobasket News
After tossing a big, wet blanket on one feel-good story, Duke gets to go after another.

They don't call 'em the Devils for nothing.

Jon Scheyer (6'5''-G-87) scored 23 points Saturday night to lift Duke, the team so many folks love to hate, to a 78-57 victory over West Virginia and set up a meeting against tiny Butler - a classic matchup of big vs. little, with the national title on the line.

'I think they're one of the best teams in the country,' Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said of his upcoming opponent, which has won 25 straight. 'I think a Cinderella would be more if somebody had eight or nine losses and pulled some upsets.'

Still, Butler is a No. 5 seed. And in a tournament turned upside down, the Blue Devils (34-5) were the only No. 1 seed to make it to the Final Four.

Their trip, however, wasn't totally predictable or expected. Duke had gone six long years since its last appearance and hasn't been to the final since winning it all nine years ago - a veritable century by Tobacco Road standards. Now, this group of Blue Devils has a chance to give Coach K his fourth national championship.

'It's everything,' senior center Brian Zoubek (7'1''-C-88) said. 'This is the culmination of four years for me. To have a shot at the championship my senior year, after everything we've been through, is a dream come true.'

This was a wire-to-wire pullaway against the West Virginia team coached by alum Bob Huggins (agency: KMG Sports Management ), who led the Mountaineers (31-7) on a 10-game winning streak that included the Big East tournament title and ended with a trip to the Final Four.

It was an inspiring journey, the first for West Virginia in 51 years, back when Jerry West wore the old gold and blue.

Huggins returned to West Virginia to bring an elusive title back home to a state that loves its flagship school like few others. But any chance of that ended with 8:59 left, when the Mountaineers' star, Da'Sean Butler (6'7''-F-88),, twisted his left knee and, to add insult to injury, got called for a charge as he crumpled to the ground.

The sequence left him writhing in pain under the basket and his coach, the Huggy Bear, came out to the floor, first to yell at the refs, then to kneel down and tenderly cup the head of his star - the player who, more than anyone, made this run possible.

'He just told me not to worry about it, that I'll be fine,' Butler said. 'And I told him that it hurts right now, but if I can get back out there, then I'll get back out there.'

He didn't. The 17-point-per-game scorer finished with 10, and was held to a mere basket in the first half while the Blue Devils were building their lead to as many as 13. Wellington Smith led the Mountaineers with 12 points.

Meanwhile, Duke stayed on a road that could lead to the school's fourth championship despite the lack of a true superstar or an NBA lottery pick - no Christian Laettners or Shane Battiers or Grant Hills on this squad.

Instead, this is a group of players who do what they do well and fill their roles perfectly.

'We won this game as a team,' forward Kyle Singler (6'8''-F-88) said. 'It wasn't just put on my shoulders, or Jon's or Nolan's. We won this game from all sides contributing.'

Singler scored 21 points for the Blue Devils and Nolan Smith added 19 points and six assists, a pair of performances that, added to Scheyer's, showed exactly how good Duke can be when all of the 'Big 3' are playing well on the same night.

Zoubek, all 7-foot-1 of him, clogged up the middle, along with 6-10 brothers Mason and Miles Plumlee. Zoubek finished with 10 rebounds, five on the offensive glass.

'I've watched a lot of tape. I haven't seen them play that well,' Huggins said. 'And we didn't play very well. And, you know, that happens.'

The Blue Devils won a lot of games this season on defense and rebounding, not that un-Duke-like 44 percent shooting, good for eighth in the 12-team Atlantic Coast Conference.

On Saturday, though, the shots started dropping, too. Shredding West Virginia's ballyhooed 1-3-1 zone trap, the Blue Devils made 52.7 percent. Singler, coming off an 0-for-10 performance in the regional victory over Baylor, went 8 for 16. Scheyer, who was 1 for 11 in a win over Cal the first weekend, went 7 for 13.

'We felt comfortable no matter what they did,' Scheyer said.

Not surprisingly, West Virginia had few answers. Joe Mazzulla, who scored a career-high 17 points to lift the Mountaineers to their upset over Kentucky in the East Regional, finished with only four in this one and had to wear a new uniform after Zoubek drew blood while conking him on the head early in the game.

Mazzulla was starting in place of injured point guard Darryl Bryant (6'2''-G), who broke his right foot earlier in the tournament and had held out slim hope of playing in Indy. Hard to imagine his presence would have changed much.

The final 10 minutes were played in front of a quickly thinning crowd at Lucas Oil Stadium, the majority of whom had come to see Butler's 52-50 win over Michigan State earlier in the night.

Those who stayed might not have liked what's coming next in Monday night's final. And those who think Duke has been humbled by its championship drought will certainly look at the replays of Miles Plumlee hanging on the rim way too long after a dunk that drew a technical foul, but also put his team up by 14.

A bit of showmanship for a program that routinely has been dissed across America as being too arrogant, too this, too that.

The theme came up again, predictably, this week, on several fronts - including the retraction of an illustration of Krzyzewski on the front of the Indianapolis Star sports section with horns and a target scribbled onto his head.

Coach K's response to all that: If you want to hate us because we have kids who go to school, graduate, play solid, team ball and win a lot, go ahead.

They do all that, but they're winning in a different way this year.

They're without a single superstar, but with an emotional center in Smith, who finds himself back in the city where his father, Derek, led Louisville to a championship back in 1980.

Derek Smith died of a heart attack at age 34, when Nolan was 8, and the guard is just coming around to talking about it.

'It crossed my mind a little bit,' Smith said. 'But I'm playing for myself and my Duke team and I'll let my mom do all the thinking about my father's footsteps.'

His mother might argue that, given Smith's history, a title in Indianapolis would only be fitting.

There's another team, the hometown Butler Bulldogs, who will argue the very same thing.
May the best team win.

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com


*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND   


Italy open Albert Schweitzer Tournament with victory - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - New Zealand U18 83:56

Italian Junior NT tipped off their Albert Schweitzer Tournament campaign with a cruising win against New Zealand. Andrea Traini (178-G-92) scored 18 points to lead the effort. Marco Ceron (190-G-92) added 16 points for the winners.
The teams traded baskets early in the game before Italy went on a 12:0 run to earn an 18:7 lead. They wrapped up the opening frame leading by 8 points 23:15. Marco Ceron opened a double digit lead for Italy early in the second period but the Junior Tall Blacks stayed close. Jordan Ngatai and Max Williams dragged New Zealand within 4 points. Italy won the first half 41:37. The Azzurri triggered a 16:2 rally early in the third quarter to clear off. They limited their opponents to just 3 points in the quarter and posted a comfortable 63:40 advantage at the final break. New Zealand began the final frame with four points in a row but Italy quickly stopped the bleeding and raced to the win at the end.
Giovanni Pini (203-F/C-92) produced 15 points for Italy. Max Williams responded with 15 points for New Zealand. Stefan Mandic (178-G-92) had 12 points in the loss.

Italy: Andrea Traini 18, Marco Ceron 16, Giovanni Pini 15
New Zealand: Max Williams 15, Stefan Mandic 12


NBL Round: 5 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Southland Sharks - Cougars 85-79
Michael Rose (193-F/G-87, college: E.Kentucky) tallied 24 points, 7 rebounds, 5 steals and 4 assists to lead Southland past Christchurch. Rene Rougeau delivered 22 points and 6 rebounds in the victory. Paora Winitana (195-G-76) was responsible for 26 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists in the loss.

Otago - Taranaki 61-82
Taranaki fired past Otago for the fourth straigth win. Aaron Nowell (195-G-81) stepped up with 24 points and 8 rebounds to lead Mountainairs. Jack Leasure (191-G-86, college: Co.Carolina) notched 17 points for the winners. Antione Tisby responded with 23 points and 13 rebounds for the Nuggets.

Waikato - Bay Hawks 82-79
Waikato survived overtime against Bay Hawks to remain undefeated. Thomas Abercrombie (198-G/F-87, college: Washington St.) scored 22 points to lead the Pistons. Hayden Allen provided 15 points and 8 rebounds in the winning effort. Christopher Daniel responded with 20 points and 7 rebounds for the Bay Hawks.

Harbour Heat - Nelson 83-79
Corey Webster (185-G-88, college: Lambuth) and Benny Anthony netted 16 points apiece to lead Harbour past Nelson. Rick Rickert and Kavossy Franklin had 15 points each as the Heat climbed at 5-0 record. Phill Jones answered with 25 points and 11 rebounds for the Giants.

Bay Hawks - Wellington 92-72
The Bay Hawks cruised past Wellington as George Golden (191-G-87, college: Bethany (CA)) paced balanced effort with 17 points. Everard Bartlett nailed 14 points in the winning case. Erron Maxey accounted for 23 points and 8 rebounds for the Saints.

Cougars - Manawatu 85-68
Paora Winitana scored 17 points, pulled down 6 boards and issued 6 assists to led propel Christchurch past Manawatu. Jeremy Kench and Adrian Taylor came up with 15 points each for the Cougars. Richard Jeter answered with 29 points and 11 rebounds for the Jets.

Southland Sharks - Taranaki 81-82
Taranaki posted the third win in the season as they nipped Southland Sharks away from home. Jack Leasure scored 28 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in the third straight win for the Maointainairs. Demarshay Johnson added 17 points and 10 rebounds in the win. Michael Rose responded with 22 points for the Sharks.


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


Palestinians are the friendliest and most hospitable people I have ever been around - by Jamal Walker
Hello, world I'm back out in the Middle East doing what I love to do
This is my second experience out here in the Middle East. I was in Lebanon last year and spent some time in Bahrain also. Now I'm in Palestine. I know you say Palestine and you assume aren't they fighting over there. Its not like that in the West Bank but things do go down with Palestinians and Israelis. Since I have been here it hasn't been any problems. It's a two sided story that has been going on for a lot of years and I hope that one day they can live together in peace with each other. The biggest thing that bugged me though was the border crossing I came from the Jordan side. I waited 8 hours just to get through. Israel overseas who can go through and who can't. I understand they just doing there jobs but come on do I really look like a threat. Palestinians are really misunderstood and I feel for them a lot. These are the friendliest and most hospitable people I have ever been around. Everybody here treats me like their own family. My club makes sure I am comfortable with whatever they have to give me while I'm in their country. It's a blessing for me to even be here in these Holy Lands. I'm going to tell be a grand father telling my grand kids stories about when I was out here. It's humbling experience for me this makes you appreciate what I got and what we have in the States. I just wish this country finds peace with their neighbours. Now as far as the basketball its not what I'm used to but here it's given me an opportunity to work on some things. I need to work on with basketball so that's good for me. This league is just starting its the second year they allowed imports. This year the imports are pretty good the game is different, it's only one import per team. As an import you have a big responsibility. If your locals aren't up to par then you have the weight of the team on your shoulders you are depended on so much. I have to do a lot for my team to get a W. I don't mind though. It's helping me improve my all around game. My team Ebal Nablus is a team that has a lot of young players and this year so far we are 2nd. The main thing that I have got to deal with is the fact that a lot of my players don't come to practice. I have been at the gym for 3 hours before the whole team shows up. For us to get back to winning we have to grow as a unit and play as a team. Practice is what that is for we beat this team Ibdaa Dheisheh the best team over here the second game but we played hard and together that's how we won we got to get back to that type of play. I have to be a leader on this team and a teacher (being from the States). I have played in different places my knowledge of the game is more than the guys on the team even the coach. I love to share all that I have learned to the younger guys. I am trying to help out here a lot because I want the game of basketball to be every where the passion of the game is strong. Here people love the game. They don't have a lot of facilities where I am for training but you got to make do with what u have. Until you can get better. Well I'm out stay tuned for more and I got a lot to share with you.
Stay tuned.

The blog is maintained by Jamal Walker (193-G/F-81, college: Briar Cliff) of Ebal Nablus

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


Dragons in a special training - by Hugo Carvalho
Dragons in a special training

The project 'A World of Choice' program of social rehabilitation and education in Miragaia (in Oporto), FC Porto yesterday shared the training of his basketball team with children of one of the poorest parts of the city. About 50 children learned to go down with the stars, including Carlos Andrade, who was the spokesman for the squad: 'It was gratifying to see these children smile, knowing that they were full of desire to ask questions. I know that, at least for a few hours, they were happy and one of these children can have the dream I once had: being the best player in the world. The sport helps me to forget some problems and I am convinced that if these children, it also might happen'.
Hugo Carvalho
Source: OJOGO


Benfica open Super Cup Compal with victory - by Eurobasket News
Benfica held off their archrivals Ovarense 69:55 in the opening game of the Super Cup Compal tournament in Luanda. Benfica and Ovarense joined Petro Luanda and 1 De Agosto to fight for the trophy. Benfica will face Petro Luanda tonight.
Ovarense entered the game without Shawn Jackson and Nuno Cortez. However the fact did not prevent the Portuguese Cup holders look better in the starting frame. Ovarense earned a narrow 19:18 lead at the first break. But the second quarter belonged to Benfica. Ovarense missed too many shots in the period allowing the Portuguese defending champions surge ahead. Benfica built a 43:29 advantage at the interval. Benfica were able to enlarge the gap to 17 points in the third quarter but Ovarense did not surrender. They managed to cut the deficit at 10-point mark with one quarter remaining. Benfica closed defensively in the final term limiting their opponents to just 6 points. It helped Benfica control the game and post the opening victory. Sergio Ramos (200-F-76) knocked down 19 points to lead the effort. Antonio Tavares (183-G-75) added 11 points in the victory. John Waller (193-F-82, college: ODU) responded with 21 points for Ovarense. Miguel Miranda (205-F-78) tossed in 19 points in defeat.


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Benfica 17-1 
 2. Ovarense 14-5 
 3. Porto Ferpinta 14-6 
 4. VSC Guimar. 12-8 
 5. Illiabum 9-11 
 6. Academica 9-11 
 7. AD Vagos 8-11 
 8. CAB 8-11 
 9. Ginasio 8-12 
 10. Sampaense 7-13 
 11. Barreirense 7-13 
 12. Fisica 4-15 


Stats Leaders - UZO Liga
Points Per Game
 Brandon DAGANS
  Ginasio
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 22.9
 1. Dagans, Ginasio22.9 
 2. Crutchfield, Sampa.21.8 
 3. Madison, Sampaense20.4 
 4. Webster, CAB20.1 
 5. Waller, Ovarense19.4 
 6. Powers, Fisica18.8 
 7. Ramos, Benfica18.5 
 8. Voorhees, AD Vagos18.4 
 9. Smith, AD Vagos17.6 
 10. Clark, Barreirense17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christopher LEE
  Ovarense
  (206-C-)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Lee, Ovarense10.1 
 2. Nealy, VSC Guimar.10.0 
 3. Smith, AD Vagos9.7 
 4. Johnson, Fisica9.6 
 5. Johnson, Academica9.5 
 6. St.Robert, Illiabum9.1 
 7. Terrell, Porto F.9.0 
 8. Wilson, Sampaense8.9 
 9. Shaw, Illiabum8.8 
 10. Webster, CAB8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Daniel FELIX
  Illiabum
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Felix, Illiabum2.9 
 2. Silva, VSC Guimar.2.4 
 3. Costa, Ginasio2.3 
 4. Balseiro, Sampa.2.3 
 5. Simoes, Academica2.2 
 6. Schneider, CAB2.2 
 7. Dagans, Ginasio2.2 
 8. Sousa, Academica2.1 
 9. Mims, VSC Guimar.2.1 
 10. Pedroso, CAB2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Nuno MANARTE
  Ovarense
  (184-G-75)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Manarte, Ovarense6.3 
 2. Costa, Ginasio6.3 
 3. Felix, Illiabum6.1 
 4. Reveles, AD Vagos5.5 
 5. Sing, Sampaense4.8 
 6. Fernandes, CAB4.6 
 7. Pires, Illiabum4.5 
 8. Mims, VSC Guimar.4.4 
 9. Perdigao, AD Vagos4.1 
 10. Miranda, Ovarense4.1 
Blocks Per Game
 John SMITH
  AD Vagos
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Smith, AD Vagos1.6 
 2. Soderberg, CAB1.4 
 3. Terrell, Porto F.1.3 
 4. Wilson, Sampaense1.3 
 5. DeWitz, Benfica1.3 
 6. Lee, Ovarense1.3 
 7. Voorhees, AD Vagos1.2 
 8. Grimes, Academica1.2 
 9. Austin, Ginasio1.1 
 10. Frisby, Benfica1.1 


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


Quebradillas Pirates sign Greg Stevenson - by Eurobasket
Quebradillas Pirates added to their roster 32-year old American forward Greg Stevenson (198-F-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent). Stevenson played most recently at Changwon LG Sakers (Korea). Stevenson is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in France, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Italy and Korea.
in his first game with Quebradillas Pirates, Stevenso played only 6 minutes and scored 2 points and 3 rebounds
By Eurobasket Data Center

*****************************************************
  QATAR   


March Madness Doesn't Just Exist in the NCAA - by Marcus Session
Well I arrived here in the lovely City of Doha Qatar not long ago and have started to fit in well with my surroundings.
The management at Al Ahli has treated me great and all of my teammates are cool.
What more can a player ask for, now it's on me to perform.
The first two games of this Prince Emir Cup (Playoffs) are in the books and I can't help but notice that this playoff is taking a sort of NCAA march madness twist with it's thrilling upsets.
Not to call my team the underdogs, but supposedly we were.
I thank God we were able to pull of a victory against a great Jaish Army team, without myself, who fouled out after only playing 5 minutes in the second half, and also another one of our key big men.
So I guess you can call that victory an upset.
Need I remind everyone that I don't think the spirit of March Madness is limited to the NCAA, but instead it's open to all leagues around the world.
Well at least in my experience here in Qatar.
Another upset happened last night as I watched the Wakara pull out a thrilling upset over Garafa, one of the leagues Premier teams, if not THE premier team.
Not to mention Saad being defeated by Qatar.
I say this to say, let's take away the month of March and even its defining madness in the loom of many upsets in the basketball world and what do we have?
We have hungry athletes who are ready to go out on the court and put everything they have on the line to achieve the ultimate goal ....TO WIN A CHAMPIONSHIP.
As this mad race continues I wonder which group of athletes will work that much harder to achieve the impossible.
I can only speak for myself and my team that we will do whatever it takes to be ready for the next challenge, and I'm sure the other teams will do the same.
That's what makes the playoffs great!
Although the month of March has just ended I can feel that an athletes hunger for victory hasn't.
Need I remind you that the final four happens in April...

The blog is maintained by Marcus Session (198-F-81, college: St.Mary's (TX)) of Al Ahli Sports Club

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


Standings
Div.A Standings
 1. U.Mobitel.CN 25-5 
 2. Gaz Metan 24-6 
 3. Ploiesti 24-6 
 4. CSU Sibiu 20-10 
 5. Timisoara 19-11 
 6. Pitesti 16-14 
 7. Steaua Turabo 16-14 
 8. Mures 16-14 
 9. Oradea 15-15 
 10. Rovinari 14-16 
 11. Otopeni 13-17 
 12. Bucuresti 11-19 
 13. Dinamo B. 11-19 
 14. Brasov 6-24 
 15. Craiova 5-25 
 16. Gladiator CN 5-25 


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Zoran KRSTANOVIC
  U.Mobitel.CN
  (205-C-82)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.20.7 
 2. Bassett, Craiova20.7 
 3. Bassett, Craiova20.7 
 4. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.20.7 
 5. Peciukas, Mures19.0 
 6. Pesic, Timisoara18.9 
 7. Mandic, Oradea18.4 
 8. Bubanja, Brasov17.8 
 9. Mack, Steaua T.17.4 
 10. Santana, Municipal B.17.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Trevor HARVEY
  Craiova
  (211-C-80)
  Avg: 10
 1. Harvey, Craiova10.0 
 2. Harvey, Craiova10.0 
 3. Herndon, CSU Sibiu9.5 
 4. Carutasu, Ploiesti9.4 
 5. Masiulis, Mures9.3 
 6. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.9.2 
 7. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.9.2 
 8. Paltinisanu, Timis.8.1 
 9. Nicoara, Gaz Metan7.9 
 10. Waterstradt, Munici.7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Jarrett HOWELL
  Gaz Metan
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Howell, Gaz Metan5.6 
 2. Cooley, Mures5.5 
 3. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN5.4 
 4. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN5.4 
 5. Dzambic, Timisoara4.8 
 6. Dawson, Gladiato.4.6 
 7. Fometescu, Dinamo B.4.4 
 8. Howard, Gladiato.4.4 
 9. Bassett, Craiova4.3 
 10. Bassett, Craiova4.3 
Steals Per Game
 JuJuan COOLEY
  Mures
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Cooley, Mures2.5 
 2. Howell, Gaz Metan2.4 
 3. Johnson, CSU Sibiu2.4 
 4. Mitchell, Gaz Metan2.2 
 5. Medvedj, U.Mobite.2.0 
 6. Medvedj, U.Mobite.2.0 
 7. Maric, Oradea2.0 
 8. Mandache, Otopeni1.9 
 9. Dawson, Gladiato.1.9 
 10. Mitchell, Oradea1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Arturas MASIULIS
  Mures
  (210-C-80)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Masiulis, Mures2.2 
 2. Herndon, CSU Sibiu1.8 
 3. Lazar, Oradea1.8 
 4. Dragusin, Pitesti1.6 
 5. Harvey, Craiova1.5 
 6. Harvey, Craiova1.5 
 7. Dragovic, Craiova1.4 
 8. Dragovic, Craiova1.4 
 9. Wiggins, Steaua T.1.1 
 10. Bubanja, Brasov1.0 


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


FMP Zeleznik win Vilagarcia BasketCup - by Eurobasket News
FMP - Zeleznik Zalgiris 78:67
FMP Zeleznik junior team trimphed at the Vilagarcia BasketCup in Spain. They toppled Zalgiris in the Final tonight. Nikola Vukasovic (192-G-91) scored 23 points to lead FMP to the win.
Zalgiris got to the better start. The Lithuanian team led by two points at the first break 19:17. However FMP drew things level at 34 twenty minutes into the game. FMP stepped on the gas in the third stanza. They outscored their opponents 27:17 in the third period to earn a comfortable 10-point advantage with ten minutes remaining. FMP kept a tight grasp on the lead throughout the fourth term and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Nikola Markovic (208-F/C-89) provided 16 points and 7 boards for the Serbian team. Ivan Smiljanic (198-F-89) added 14 points in the victory. Zygimantas Janavicius (192-G-89, agency: Interperformances) responded with 19 points, 7 boards and 5 assists for Zalgiris. Siim-Sander Vene (203-F-90) had 14 points in defeat.
Ukrainian Budivelnyk claimed the third spot as they shot down Joventut 79:60 in the consolation final. Two Kyiv players also clinched Contest trophies. Olexiy Shchepkin (192-G-89) won Three-Point Shootout contest, while Olexandr Mishula (185-G-92) celebrated at the Slam Dunk contest. Mega Vizura finished in the fifth spot as they defeated Estudiantes 74:59 tonight.


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


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Jeremy FEARS
  Prievidza
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Fears, Prievidza21.7 
 2. Glavinic, Handlova20.6 
 3. Burrows, Komarno18.1 
 4. Crawford, Nitra17.9 
 5. Bosak, Prievidza17.7 
 6. Polakovic, Svit17.2 
 7. Nicholson, Pezinok16.7 
 8. Polakovic, Inter B.16.1 
 9. Mroz, Nova Ves16.0 
 10. Laco, Svit15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Pawel MROZ
  Nova Ves
  (215-C-84)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Mroz, Nova Ves8.5 
 2. Nicholson, Pezinok7.9 
 3. Burrows, Komarno7.9 
 4. Szalay, Prievidza7.6 
 5. Tomek, Nitra7.4 
 6. Skara, B.Bystrica7.3 
 7. Micuda, Pezinok6.5 
 8. Cvitanovic, Svit6.4 
 9. Laco, Svit6.4 
 10. Batka, Nova Ves6.3 
Assists Per Game
 T.J. BANNISTER
  Komarno
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 8.6
 1. Bannister, Komarno8.6 
 2. Glavinic, Handlova7.1 
 3. Jefferson, Nova Ves5.6 
 4. Crawford, Nitra5.0 
 5. Scott, Nitra4.8 
 6. Fears, Prievidza4.7 
 7. Immink, B.Bystrica3.6 
 8. Grznar, Levice3.5 
 9. Milosevic, Pezinok3.4 
 10. Bosak, Prievidza3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Jan ZAVODNY
  Vahostav-Zilina
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Zavodny, Vahost.2.7 
 2. Fears, Prievidza2.3 
 3. Crawford, Nitra2.2 
 4. Jackson, Pezinok2.2 
 5. Scott, Nitra2.2 
 6. Jefferson, Nova Ves2.0 
 7. Zilik, Inter B.1.9 
 8. Glavinic, Handlova1.9 
 9. Mielczarek, Nova V.1.8 
 10. Kucsa, Inter B.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jaraun BURROWS
  Komarno
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 0.8
 1. Burrows, Komarno0.8 
 2. Polakovic, Svit0.7 
 3. Blagojevic, Komar.0.7 
 4. Klar, Levice0.6 
 5. Gudelj, Komarno0.6 
 6. Bosak, Prievidza0.6 
 7. Cvitanovic, Svit0.6 
 8. Madaj, Komarno0.6 
 9. Glavinic, Handlova0.5 
 10. Fears, Prievidza0.5 


Extraliga Round: 2 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Inter Bratislava - Pezinok 72-79
Pezinok posted the second consecutive win against Inter Bratislava. Yemi Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) scored 19 points to lead the winners. Nenad Milosevic added 17 points for the regular season champions. Michael Anderson delivered 20 points and 7 rebounds for Inter in defeat.

B.Bystrica - Nitra 72-68
Banska Bystrica showed their ambitions as they knotted things up in the series against Nitra. Vladimir Hovanak (193-G/F-82) scored 22 points to lead Banska Bystrica to the home success. Gregory Immink added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side. Edward Scott answered with 20 points and 6 rebounds for Nitra. Clifford Crawford accounted for 14 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Komarno - Handlova 61-70
Hadlova stepped closer to the Extraliga semis after a road success against Komarno. Josip Glavinic (192-G-82) scored 20 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, issued 7 assists and blocked 4 shots to lead the visitors. Ivan Barisic netted 13 points in the win. Jaraun Burrows notched 14 points and 11 rebounds for Komarno.


Extraliga Play-off first round, matchday two - by Tomas Kottra
Whole Slovak basketbal community is looking forward to four tonights games between top eight league teams.
BK Inter Bratislava (8) - Basketbal Pezinok (1)
The series, that are predicted to be the shortest. However, Basketbal Pezinok needed to fight in match one and after three quarters was winner still not clear, but then the vice-champion players 'turned on' and made the final of 26 points. The best player was Yemi Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) with dominant play under the basket, on which the opponent could not respond. He scored 39 points and rebounded 14 times. We'll see, if BK Inter Bratislava can cover him and 'defuse' his abilities.
SKP Banska Bystrica (7) - BK SPU Nitra (2)
In the first match topped BK SPU Nitra their opponent with almost impossible perimeter play both offensively (BK SPU Nitra 13/19 3pt - 68%) and defensively (SKP Banska Bystrica 4/12 3pt - 33%). BK SPU Nitra built grounding for their final lead in last minute of second quarter with two fast tree-pointers, second with sound of half-time buzzer. BK SPU Nitra players Clifford Crawford (194-G-81, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) and Dametri Hill (202-C-74, college: Florida) did gret job collecting 38 points, Lubos Pohanka (191-G-77) netted 12 points, all of them were three-pointers. They were also dominant under the baskets. But BK SPU Nitra have to play better if they want to claim win in SKP Banska Bystrica, because they can not rely on three-pointers only.
MBK Rieker Komarno (6) - MBK Handlova (3)
As we saw in first match, this serie could be the most evenly matched. This only match was dramatic until the final buzzer and a bit after it, when T.J. Bannister (180-G, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Liberty) could not complete the half court throw in last second. MBK Rieker Komarno player Richard Misinsky (186-G-80, agency: Pro Agents-Basketball Careers) topped everybody on the court with six three-pointers and 30 points. Home fans were pleased by play of this seasons MVP Josip Glavinic (192-G-82) (25p, 10a) and center Milan Golian (207-C-74) (19p, 5/6 3pt). Series moved now to MBK Rieker Komarno. Supporters await explosive match. Both sides want to improve their defenses.
BC Prievidza (5) - BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves (4)
Worst match played by BC Prievidza meant only terrible 51 points. This performance could not be enough in any play-off match, so improvements are needed. On the other side, Spisska played everything, what was needed and topped their opponent 77:51. We could have feelings, that series here yet not started.


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


Standings - 1A
Telemach Standings
Places 1-8
 1. Parklji 3-0 
 2. U.Olimpija 3-0 
 3. Helios 2-1 
 4. Krka 2-1 
 5. Rudar 2-1 
 6. Sentjur 0-3 
 7. Geoplin Slovan 0-3 
 8. Zlatorog 0-3 
Play-out
 1. Polzela 4-0 
 2. Elektra Esotech 3-1 
 3. Luka Koper 2-2 
 4. Sencur CP 0-4 
Will join on later stage:
 1. TCG Mercator - 


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


Standings - LEB Silver
LEB Standings
Group A
 1. Huesca 13-6 
 2. Navarra 11-8 
 3. Santurtzi 10-4 
 4. Caja Rioja 10-9 
 5. Andorra 10-9 
 6. Alaior 9-4 
 7. L'Hospitalet 8-5 
 8. Rosalia 8-6 
 9. Prat Juventud 7-12 
 10. Coruna 7-12 
 11. ADT Tarragona 6-8 
Group B
 1. Alcazar 14-5 
 2. Promobys 14-5 
 3. Huelva 9-10 
 4. Plasencia 8-11 
 5. Real M. II 6-7 
 6. Guadalajara 6-13 
 7. Qalat CajaSol 5-8 
 8. Matchmind 5-8 
 9. Illescas 5-14 
 10. CajasurCord. 3-10 


Spain prevail against Israel at Albert Schwitzer Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - Israel U18 84:56

Spanish Junior team celebrated the victory at the start of the Albert Schwitzer Tournament. They cruised past Israeli counterparts today. Joan Creus (184-G-92) fired 20 points to pace Spain.
Spaniards got to a flying start. They knocked down 27 points in the first quarter to earn a 5-point lead. Spain continued to dominate in the second term. Spain unloaded 23 points in the second stanza taking a 14-point halftime advantage. The leaders did not slow down in the third stanza. Spain boosted the gap at 24-point mark heading into the fourth period. Israel could not win at least one quarter and had to surrender at the end.
Angel Aparicio (199-F-92) nailed 18 points and grabbed 7 boards for Spain. Albert Ventura (199-F-92) had 14 points in the victory. Tomer Beraven and Sean Labanowski (198-F-92) replied with 10 points each for Israel. Noam Laish provided 9 points in the loss. Spain will take on Greece, while Israel will face Australia tomorrow.

Spain: Joan Creus 20, Angel Aparicio 18, Albert Ventura 14
Israel: Tomer Beraven 10, Sean Labanowski 10


LEB Silver (second stage, Group A): Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Coruna - Alcazar 63-68
Alcazar had couple of players in a game mood with Dexter Lyons (198-F/G-81, college: Cent.Florida) leading the way with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Duane Virgil (205-F/C-74, college: Murray St.) scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebs, while Kiril Wachsmann added 13 points and 12 boards. In Coruna, David Garcia collected 23 points, 6 boards and 7 assists.

Prat Juventud - Guadalajara 86-61
Prat Juventud had an easy job against Guadalajara celebrating 86-61 victory. Roberto Rosa stepped up for the hosts with 22 points and David Jelinek (194-G-90, agency: PPGroup) added 3 less than him. On the other side, visitors got 17 pts from Sergio Fernandez.

Andorra - Huelva 76-83
Huelva had Ruben Martinez (196-F-85) in a game mood with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Ivan Matamalas (194-F-84) was the second scorer in this victory with 11 points. Courtney Pigram replied with 20 points in defeat.

Huesca - Promobys 92-64
Stevie Johnson (198-F-78, college: Iowa St.) was totally the best player in this victory as he scored 25 points and pulled down 11 rebounds. Asier Zengotitabengoa (201-F-88) and Javier Salson followed him with 13 points each. Promobys got 12 points and 6 boards from Edward Cage.

Navarra - Illescas 73-68
Adrian Garcia (201-F-85) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and he grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. Jeffrey Parmer (203-F-85, college: Florida Atlantic) (6 rebs) and Inaki Sanz secured a nice help adding 13 points each. In the loosing squad, Ignacio Guigou delivered 25 points.

Caja Rioja - Plasencia 64-65
Thriller win for Plasencia, who got 17 points and 7 rebounds from Anaterve Cruz. Marko Sekulic (206-C-86) was there to help with 10 points and 7 rebounds. Enrique Suarez (185-G-83) answered with 14 points for the hosts.

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


Standings - LNA
LNA Standings
 1. Lugano Tigers 26-4 
 2. SAV Vacallo 24-6 
 3. Fribourg 21-9 
 4. Starwings 21-9 
 5. BBC Nyon 16-14 
 6. Monthey 14-16 
 7. SAM Massagno 12-18 
 8. Geneva Devils 12-18 
 9. Lausanne 8-22 
 10. Boncourt 8-22 
 11. MGS 3-27 


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


Turkey edge Brazil in Mannheim - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Brazil U18 70:55

Turkey posted the initial win at the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany. The Turkish juniors held off Brazil in the opener. Can Korkmaz (92) poured in 20 points to lead the European team.
It was a close battle throughout the first three quarter. Turkey looked slightly better early in the game taking a 17:13 lead at the first break. Brazil bounced back in the second frame. They quickly drew things level and ensured a 29:29 tie at halftime. The lead changed hands for several times in the third frame before Can Korkmaz gave Turkey a 49:47 advantage heading into the fourth term. He opened the fourth term with two more triples as Turkey stretched the lead to 8 points. Turkey soon opened a double-digit lead and rallied to the victory. Safak Edge (185-G-92) provided 14 points for the winning side. Samet Geyik (202-F-93) nailed 12 points and grabbed 9 boards in the win. Felipe Vezaro answered with 17 points, 6 boards and 3 assists for Brazil. Cristiano Felicio finished with 9 points in the loss.

Turkey: Can Korkmaz 20, Safak Edge 14, Samet Geyik 12
Brazil: Felipe Vezaro 17, Cristiano Felicio 9


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


Superleague Round: 29 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Budivelnyk - Gryfony 95-55
Budivelnyk dismantled Gryfony in Kyiv. Michailis Anisimovas (214-C-84) scored 19 points and grabbed 6 boards to lead the league leaders. Maxim Balashov added 15 points, while Artur Drozdov debuted with 14 in the victory. Sergei Sabutskyy responded with 17 points for Gryfony.

Azovmash - BC Odessa 79-74
Azovmash improved at 14-10 record after they toppled BC Odessa. Ramel Curry (191-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) scored 27 points to lead the hosts. Fred House contributed 17 points, 5 boards and 3 assists for Azovmash. Jerome Coleman fired game-high 32 points for Odessa as they suffered the ninth defeat.

BC Kyiv - Pulsar 73-55
BC Kyiv coasted past Pulsar in the capital. Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency: Interperformances) came up with 16 points to pace the home side. Artem Shvets added 14 points for the winners. Artem Shelukha answered with 12 points for Pulsar.

Mykolaiv - Kryvbasbasket 63-62
Igor Silkovskyy scored a late jumper to propel Mykolaiv past Kryvbasbasket at home court. Daniel McClintock (212-C-77, college: N.Arizona) stepped up with 12 points and 11 rebounds to lead balanced effort. Justin Love added 10 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners. Jurica Zuza answered with 13 points in the loss.

Khimik - Ferro-ZNTU 89-92
Ferro-ZNTU shocked Khimik in Yuzhny. Kevin Tiggs (196-G/F-84, college: E.Tenn.St.) and Steve Burtt scored 21 points each to lead Ferro-ZNTU to the 19th win in the season. Charles Thomas added 18 points for the visitors. Andriy Agafonov responded with 17 points and 12 rebounds for Khimik.

Hoverla - Dnipro 89-66
Hoverla proved too good for visiting Dnipro. Patrick Sparks (184-G-83, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Kentucky) stepped up with 19 points and 10 assists for Hoverla. Michael Fraser accounted for 18 points and 13 rebounds as the Ivano-Frankivsk team climbed at 12-12 record. Marcus Faison debuted with 16 points for Dnipro.


Standings - Superleague
Superleague Standings
 1. Budivelnyk 22-2 
 2. Kryvbasbasket 20-4 
 3. Ferro-ZNTU 19-5 
 4. BC Kyiv 16-8 
 5. BC Odessa 15-9 
 6. Azovmash 14-10 
 7. Dnipro 13-11 
 8. Hoverla 12-12 
 9. Mykolaiv 11-13 
 10. Halychyna 10-14 
 11. Khimik 9-15 
 12. Pulsar 4-20 
 13. DniproAzot 3-21 
 14. Gryfony 0-24 
ZFolded
 1. BC Donetsk 0-0 


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


LPB 2010 - Week 7 (Mar. 30th): Trotamundos completes sweep over Toros - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Trotamundos de Carabobo were brave enough to pull an away sweep over Toros de Aragua to increase the gap between them and elimination as they also were able to climb half a game over Guaros de Lara in fourth place of the LPB 2010 regular season standings.

Trotamundos de Carabobo 89 - Toros de Aragua 73
Rafael Romero Bolivar Arena - Maracay, Aragua

Quarter by quarter
TOR: 19-15-20-19= 73
TRO: 12-21-23-33= 89

Scorers
TOR: Joseph Bunn (198-F/C-75) 25 points and 10 rebounds, Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) 18 points and 5 steals, Quincy Wadley (193-G-78) 9 points, David Cedeno (190-G-83) 6 points, Amber Marin (208-C-81) 5 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks, Rodrigo Rodriguez (198-F-80) 5 points, Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) 2 points, Roberto Basanta (192-F-82) 2 points, Peter Kvietek (203-C-77) 1 point, Jesus Tovar (183-G-90) 0 points, Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 0 points, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 0 points
TRO: Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 25 points, Richard Lugo (209-C-73) 21 points,12 rebounds and 2 blocks, Alex Galindo (198-F-85) 16 points, Martin Osimani (194-G-81) 9 points and 7 assists, DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) 9 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 4 points, Leinert Zerpa (182-G-82) 3 points, Pedro Brito (204-F/C-82) 2 points, Javinger Vargas (206-C-90) 0 points, Alexander Morillo (G-92) 0 points, Jorge Parra (206-C-84) 0 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 0 points

LPB 2010 - Week 7 (Mar. 31st): Bucaneros stopped Guaiqueries - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Bucaneros de La Guaira made themselves strong at home and they were able to stop the up and coming Guaiqueries de Margarita in their quest for the playoffs, with a big win.

Bucaneros de La Guaira 94 - Guaiqueries de Margarita 88
Jose Maria Vargas Arena - La Guaira, Vargas

Quarter by quarter
BUC: 22-27-28-17= 94
GUAI: 12-27-26-23= 88

Scorers
BUC: Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 17 points and 10 rebounds, Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) 17 points, Dennis D'Adezzio (191-G-81) 15 points, Rammel Allen (210-C-79) 11 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks, Kevin Young (206-C-84) 10 points and 6 rebounds, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 9 points, Alejandro Quiroz (185-G-75) 7 points, Dallas Logan (193-G-82) 4 points, Oswaldo Gonzalez (203-F/C-79) 4 points, Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) 0 points, Yonaiker Ecker (179-G-90) 0 points, Gustavo Calderin 0 points
GUAI: Cesar Silva (187-G/F-81) 22 points and 6 rebounds, Evan Brock (204-F-84) 20 points and 5 steals, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 14 points, Ricky Johns (193-G-85) 12 points, Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) 7 points and 6 rebounds, Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) 6 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 3 points, Cristian Montas (202-F/C-79) 2 points, Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) 2 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 0 points, Rene Farias (188-G-86) 0 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 0 points

LPB 2010 Latest News, Transactions and Updates - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuela's LPB 2010 has had a number of hirings, trades, releases, coaching changes and other movements in the forms of loans or trade/loans that have called the attention of fans all over the country. The latest ones are the signings of Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76) and Romel Beck (203-G/F-82) by Guaros de Lara, the signing of Banks Sean (203-F-85) by Gaiteros del Zulia and the reinstatement of Sean Colson in the roster of Toros de Aragua, team that decided to release Quincy Wadley (193-G-78).

Coaching changes so far
-GUAIQUERIES released Dominican Jose Maita Mercedes and replaced him with Tony Ruiz from Puerto Rico, the LPB 2009 Coach of the Year winner, back then coaching Guaros
-BUCANEROS moved Bruno D'Adezzio to their second team and brought in Argentinian Daniel Maffei
-Toros let go Argentinian Guillermo Narvarte , had assistant coach Manuel Silvera as interim coach and moved him back to assistant for new coach, Nelson Solorzano , who just finished coaching Venezuela's U18 Team in the South American Games of Medellin, Colombia

Roster changes

Cocodrilos de Caracas
-Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) was released. He finished up with 12 games, 8.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, 48% 2PT, 22% 3PT, 54% FT

Marinos de Anzoategui
-Martin Zeno (196-G-85) was released. Stats: 3 games, 6.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 0.6apg, 0.6bpg, 1.0spg, 40% 2PT, 60% 3PT, 50% FT
-Jermaine Walker (198-F-77) was released. Stats: 11 games, 11.7ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, 0.3bpg, 1.3spg, 42% 2PT, 35% 3PT, 86% FT
-Taliek Brown (186-G-82) was released. Stats: 2 games, 5.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 4.0apg, 1.0spg, 30% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 63% FT
-Henry Dugat (183-G-87) was released. Stats: 7 games, 9.7ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.2apg, 1.2spg, 53% 2PT, 14% 3PT, 66% FT
-Denham Brown (198-F-83) was released. Stats: 6 games, 10.6ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1apg, 0.5spg, 49% 2PT, 30% 3PT, 78% FT

Gaiteros del Zulia
-Signed Banks Sean to fill in for injured David Reichel (202-F/G-84), who'll be on reserve while Banks is evaluated on court
-Luis McCullough (198-G/F-82) was released. Stats: 4 games, 10.2ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.2apg, 0.5bpg, 2.0spg, 46% 2PT, 25% 3PT, 100% FT
-Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85) was released. Stats: 1 game, 3.0ppg, 5.0rpg, 4.0apg, 4.0spg, 25% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 17% FT
-Carl Krauser (188-G-81) was released. Stats: 4 games, 10.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 5.0apg, 1.7spg, 53% 2PT, 14% 3PT, 83% FT
-Elvis Burguillos (194-G/F-82) was released and picked up by PANTERAS DE MIRANDA. His stats with Gaiteros: 4 games, 0.5ppg, 0.7rpg, 0.5spg, 33% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 0% FT
-Askia Jones (196-G-71) was lent to GUAROS DE LARA for the remainder of the season. Jones hasn't played his first game in LPB 2010 yet cause he was in the United States. GUAROS expects his arrival for this weekend.

Trotamundos de Carabobo
-Signed DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) to replace Tarrie Monroe (202-F-77) in the active roster
-Got Johnathan Polanco (190-G-82) as a loan from GUAIQUERIES DE MARGARITA for the remainder of 2010
-Kellen Milliner (193-G-83) was released. Stats: 11 games, 11.2ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.0apg, 0.1bpg, 1.1spg, 52% 2PT, 44% 3PT, 61% FT
-Kenny Taylor (192-G-82) was released. Stats: 7 games, 9.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, 50% 2PT, 28% 3PT, 71% FT
-Tarrie Monroe was released. Stats: 1 game, 4.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0bpg, 1.0spg, 50% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 0% FT
-Joe Shipp (197-F-81) was released. Stats: 3 games, 7.6ppg, 1.0rpg, 0.3apg, 1.0spg, 67% 2PT, 25% 3PT, 50% FT
-Sent Elvis Montero (193-G-78) as a loan to TOROS DE ARAGUA for the remainder of the 2010 season. His stats with Trotamundos: 10 games, 2.0ppg, 0.5rpg, 0.1apg, 0.3spg, 33% 2PT, 33% 3PT, 56% FT

Guaros de Lara
-Signed Romel Beck and Torraye Braggs. Will decide who leaves open spots for them in the next few hours
-Cordell Henry (178-G-80) is back with Guaros after rehab sessions and recovery from an injury in his cervical area
-Acquired Erick Herrera (184-F-81) from BUCANEROS as a loan for the remainder of 2010.
-Acquired Askia Jones from GAITEROS as a loan for the remainder of 2010
-Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82) was released. Stats: 5 games, 0.8ppg, 0.4rpg, 0.2bpg, 0.2spg, 0% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 100% FT
-Schea Cotton (196-G-78) was released. Stats: 4 games, 13.2ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.0apg, 0.2bpg, 1.0spg, 60% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 89% FT
-Andre Smith (188-G-80) was released. Stats: 4 games, 2.2ppg, 0.5rpg, 0.2apg, 0.7spg, 67% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 50% FT
-Mike Smith (201-G/F-76) was released. Stats: 9 games, 8.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 0.8apg, 0.1bpg, 0.6spg, 48% 2PT, 23% 3PT, 62% FT

Panteras de Miranda
-Signed Elvis Burguillos, who was previously released by GAITEROS DEL ZULIA

Guaiqueries de Margarita
-Sent Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) to BUCANEROS as a loan for the remainder of 2010. His stats with Guaiqueries: 12 games, 5.5ppg, 2.0rpg, 0.6apg, 0.3bpg, 0.4spg, 44% 2PT, 28% 3PT, 67% FT
-Got Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) from BUCANEROS as a loan for the remainder of 2010
-Duke Freeman-McKamey (208-F-80) was released. Stats: 9 games, 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, 0.8bpg, 0.6spg, 51% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 61% FT
-Pierre Darden (208-F/C-83) was released. Stats: 2 games, no stats, only attempted two 2-point shots and missed

Gigantes de Guayana
-Got Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) as a loan from BUCANEROS for the remainder of 2010
-Got Ruben Contreras (196-F-87) as a loan from MARINOS for the remainder of 2010
-Randy Orr (207-C/F-82) was released. Stats: 2 games, 4.0ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.0apg, 2.5bpg, 0.5spg, 43% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 100% FT

Bucaneros de La Guaira
-Signed Kevin Young (206-C-84) (center with passport from Jamaica), who debuted in their last match with #4.
-Lent Erick Herrera to GUAROS DE LARA for the remainder of 2010. His stats with Bucaneros: 11 games, 1.9ppg, 1.3rpg, 0.7apg, 0.5spg, 42% 2PT, 20% 3PT, 89% FT
-Lent Tomas Aguilera to GIGANTES DE GUAYANA for the remainder of 2010. His stats with Bucaneros: 4 games, 3.7ppg, 1.5rpg, 0.5spg, 20% 2PT, 50% 3PT, 80% FT
-Lent Derwin Ramirez to GUAIQUERIES DE MARGARITA for the remainder of 2010. His stats with Bucaneros: 15 games, 5.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 0.7apg, 0.1bpg, 1.0spg, 57% 2PT, 20% 3PT, 77% FT
-Got Alejandro Barrios from BUCANEROS DE LA GUAIRA as a loan for the remainder of 2010
-Quentin Smith (205-C-77) was released. Stats: 6 games, 9.8ppg, 7.0rpg, 0.5apg, 0.1bpg, 1.3spg, 68% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 48% FT
-Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) was released. Stats: 4 games, 19.7ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.5apg, 0.2bpg, 2.5spg, 64% 2PT, 18% 3PT, 93% FT
-Santos Martinez (198-G/F-81) was released. Stats: 4 games, 10.2ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.0apg, 0.5bpg, 1.0spg, 42% 2PT, 30% 3PT, 100% FT
-Robert McKiver (191-G-84) was released. Stats: 8 games, 13.2ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.8apg, 1.6spg, 50% 2PT, 30% 3PT, 69% FT
-Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74) was released. Stats: 1 game, 5.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.0bpg, 25% 2PT, 0% 3PT, 75% FT

Toros de Aragua
-Signed Quincy Wadley, who was tested in two games, then reinstated Sean Colson in the roster
-Got Elvis Montero from TROTAMUNDOS as a loan for the remainder of 2010
-Carl Edwards (196-F-81) was released. Stats: 6 games, 12.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.1apg, 0.5bpg, 0.6spg, 42% 2PT, 30% 3PT, 64% FT
-Ronald Ramon (185-G-86) was released. Stats: 10 games, 13.7ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.2apg, 0.1bpg, 1.4spg, 45% 2PT, 47% 3PT, 67% FT
-Bennett Davison (203-F-75) was released. Stats: 10 games, 12.1ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.5apg, 0.2bpg, 0.4spg, 59% 2PT, 26% 3PT, 67% FT

LPB 2010 - Week 7 (Mar. 29th): Marinos swept, Gigantes split, Trotamundos won - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Marinos de Anzoategui swept Guaros de Lara as hosts to shorten their distance from the first place occupied by Cocodrilos de Caracas in the LPB 2010 regular season standings, while Gigantes de Guayana saved a series split at home against Panteras de Miranda and Trotamundos de Carabobo won one on the road against the weakened Toros de Aragua.

Marinos de Anzoategui 99 - Guaros de Lara 72
Luis Ramos Arena - Puerto La Cruz, Anzoategui

Quarter by quarter
MAR: 20-19-33-27= 99
GUA: 14-19-19-20= 72

Scorers
MAR: Hector Romero (202-F-80) 25 points, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 19 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 15 points and 12 rebounds, Donta Smith (201-G-83) 15 points, Michael Gale (193-G-82) 6 points, Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) 5 points, Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) 5 points, Adan Reyes (183-G-83) 5 points, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 3 points, Hatila Passos (211-C-86) 1 point, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 0 points, Jose Manuel Briceno (203-C/F-79) 0 points
GUA: Arthur Long (206-F/C-73) 17 points and 7 rebounds, Sonys Reyes (181-G-86) 13 points, Jose Martinez (196-F-82) 10 points, Carlos Morris (194-G-76) 9 points, Anthony Steward (200-F-78) 9 points, Kervis Ramirez (190-G-78) 7 points, Josmar Acevedo (196-F-90) 5 points, Majic Dorsey (185-G-81) 2 points, Erick Herrera (184-F-81) 0 points, Rafael Rodriguez (187-G-86) 0 points

Gigantes de Guayana 118 - Panteras de Miranda 104
Hermanas Gonzalez Arena - Puerto Ordaz, Bolivar

Quarter by quarter
GIG: 33-30-29-26= 118
PAN: 20-25-25-34= 104

Scorers
GIG: Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 31 points and 5 assists, Clarence Matthews (201-F-83) 27 points and 2 blocks, Terquin Mott (203-F-74) 19 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists, Omar Quintero (183-G-81) 15 points, 8 assists and 6 steals, Elvis Baez (189-G-89) 13 points and 5 steals, Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) 9 points, Jose Ramos (198-F-71) 2 points, Lenin Lopez 2 points, Randy Vazquez (190-G-78) 0 points, Daniel Macuare (190-F-84) 0 points, Ruben Contreras (196-F-87) 0 points, Marlon Patino (204-F/C-80, college: Indian Hills CC) 0 points
PAN: Marcus Elliott (191-G-84) 27 points, Darwin Jaramillo (192-F-86) 21 points, Michael Flores (192-G-85) 17 points, Kojo Mensah (185-G-85) 15 points, 9 assists and 6 steals, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 15 points, Roque Osorio (206-C-76) 5 points and 3 blocks, Aaron Eneas (202-F-78) 4 points, Deivis Ananguren (192-F-85) 0 points, Julio Rausseo (200-F/C-77) 0 points, Richard Mejias (187-G-78) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 0 points, Victor Gonzalez (200-F-69) 0 points

Trotamundos de Carabobo 89 - Toros de Aragua 77
Rafael Romero Bolivar Arena - Maracay, Aragua

Quarter by quarter
TOR: 13-19-20-25= 77
TRO: 24-19-34-12= 89

Scorers
TOR: Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) 17 points, Joseph Bunn (198-F/C-75) 15 points
TRO: Alex Galindo (198-F-85) 24 points, Martin Osimani (194-G-81) 17 points and 7 assists, DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82) 13 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks, Richard Lugo (209-C-73) 12 points and 10 rebounds, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 4 points and 5 assists, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 3 points, Leinert Zerpa (182-G-82) 3 points, Javinger Vargas (206-C-90) 2 points, Alexander Morillo (G-92) 0 points, Jorge Parra (206-C-84) 0 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 0 points

LPB 2010 - Week 7 (Apr. 1st): Guaiqueries gets even and ties sixth place - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Guaiqueries de Margarita got even and took a series split as visitors against Bucaneros de La Guaira by introducing major improvements into their defensive strategies to overcome the powerful offensive of the local side.

Guaiqueries de Margarita 79 - Bucaneros de La Guairav 64
Jose Maria Vargas Arena - La Guaira, Vargas

Quarter by quarter
BUC: 9-16-16-23= 64
GUAI: 23-12-16-28= 79

Scorers
BUC: Kevin Young (206-C-84) 13 points and 6 rebounds, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 12 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, Dennis D'Adezzio (191-G-81) 10 points, Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) 9 points, Dallas Logan (193-G-82) 6 points, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 5 points and 6 rebounds, Rammel Allen (210-C-79) 4 points, Alejandro Quiroz (185-G-75) 3 points, Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) 2 points, Oswaldo Gonzalez (203-F/C-79) 0 points, Jose Yovera (194-G/F-75) 0 points
GUAI: Evan Brock (204-F-84) 17 points and 9 rebounds, Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) 16 points, Cristian Montas (202-F/C-79) 14 points and 11 rebounds, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 14 points, Cesar Silva (187-G/F-81) 10 points, Ricky Johns (193-G-85) 4 points, Rene Farias (188-G-86) 2 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 2 points, Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) 0 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 0 points, Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) 0 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 0 points



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Women News

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  FINLAND - Women  


D1 Round: 4 (Semi-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
PeKa - Espoo Team 73-69
PeKa became the first finalists as they held off Espoo Team in the fourth game of the series. Lisa Lee (183-F-84, college: Charleston So.) was pivotal once again as she fired 26 points for PeKa. Porchia Green (175-G-87, college: Ball St.) added 16 points and 8 rebounds for the home team. Niina Laaksonen responded with 22 points and 19 rebounds for Espoo Team.

Huima - Catz 69-70
Catz stayed alive in the semifinal series against Huima. After two straight defeats at the start of the series Catz posted the second consecutive win tonight. Elena Reshetko and Elisa Bue scored decisive three points late in regulation to propel Catz to the vital road success. Yelena Solovyeva (188-C-75) scored 17 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the visitors. Elena Reshetko contributed 14 points and 13 boards for Catz. Maiju Pekkarinen responded with 23 points for Huima in the loss.


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  GERMANY - Women  


DBBL Round: 1 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Marburg - Halle 73-50
Marburg surged ahead in the quarterfinal series against Halle. Margret Skuballa (186-F-87) scored 15 points and collected 11 rebounds to lead Marburg to the win. Sandra Weber added 13 points for Marburg. Jennifer Bender answered with 24 points for the Lions.

Wasserburg - Herner 79-62
Dorothea Richter (176-G-83) scored 23 points to lead Wasserburg to the opening win against Herner. Diana Adela Pop contributed 15 points in the winning effort. Minja Terzic fired 19 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for Herner.

Saarlouis - Wolfenbuettel 81-52
Saarlouis had no problems against Wolfenbuettel in the opener. Stina Barnert (176-G-89) scored 16 points to lead the hosts. Yvonne van Daalen added 15 points for the Royals. Alexandria Muller came up with game-high 24 points for the Wildcats.

Freiburg - Oberhausen 71-57
Freiburg overcame Oberhausen to take the lead in the series. Mirna Paunovic (185-F/C-76) accounted for 19 points and 7 rebounds to lead Freiburg. Sarah Hayes added 18 points, 12 boards and 4 steals for the hosts. Lea Mersch responded with 14 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Oberhausen.


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  SPAIN - Women  


Standings - LFB
LFB Standings
 1. Ros Casares 25-1 
 2. Perfumerias 23-3 
 3. Rivas Ecopolis 21-5 
 4. Mann Filter 14-12 
 5. Girona 13-13 
 6. Real C.Vigo 13-13 
 7. Olesa 12-14 
 8. Gran Canaria 12-14 
 9. Mariana 12-14 
 10. Cadi la Seu 11-15 
 11. Hondar.-Irun 8-18 
 12. Real Canoe 8-18 
 13. Estudiantes 6-20 
 14. EBE Ibiza-PDV 4-22 


LFB: Ros Casares is the regular season champion - by Eurobasket News
Estudiantes - Ros Casares 58-79
Ros Casares is the regular season champion with almost perfect 25-1 record. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) paced the team from Valencia last night with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Erika De Souza (197-C-82) scored 14 and Jana Vesela added 2 points less. On the other side, Estu finished next to last with just 6 wins in 26 appearances.

EBE Ibiza-PDV - Rivas Ecopolis 77-68
EBE Ibiza-PDV handed fifth loss to Rivas Ecopolis, but that didn't change anything. Ibiza finished the season on the last 14th place (4-22), who Rivas Ecopolis is No.3 (21-5) and goes to the Playoff. Lorena Infantes (171-G-81) led the hosts with 14 points and 6 assists. Crystal Langhorne (188-F/C-86, college: Maryland) collected 26 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.

Olesa - Real C.Vigo 83-74
12-14 for Olesa (7th place) and 13-13 for Vigo (6th place) at the end of LFB regular season. Michelle Maslowski (188-F/C-79, college: Drexel) led Olesa last night with 15 points and 6 rebounds, Helena Boada (174-G-87) had 13, while Iva Perovanovic and Silvia Martinello added 12 points each. Vigo got 20 points and 6 boards from Iva Sliskovic.

Mann Filter - Cadi la Seu 76-71
Mann Filter advanced to Playoff Semifinals as No.4 with 14 wins and 12 defeats. On the other side, Cadi la Seu finished the season as N.10 with 11 wins. Allison Feaster-Strong (181-F-76, college: Harvard) shined for the hosts last night with 21, while Cristina Ouvina (173-G-90) added 18 points. Arhonda Covington collected 20 points and 6 boards in loss.

Real Canoe - Hondar.-Irun 86-95
Both finished this season with 8 wins, but thanks to this one Hondarribia-Irun is 11th ranked team. Anna De Forge (178-G-76, college: Nebraska) stepped up for the visiting squad with 20 points. Laura Garcia (175-G-81) also scored 20, but for the hosts.

Perfumerias - Mariana 85-61
Perfumerias is No.2 with 23-3 score. Sancho Lyttle (193-C-83, college: Houston) shined for the hosts with 17 points and 7 rebounds, while Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) also scored 17 and pulled down 6 boards beside that. Mariana got 20 points and 10 boards from Eshaya Murphy finishing the season on ninth place (12-14).

Gran Canaria - Girona 64-70
Girona was close to Playoff, but despite this win they didn't make it. Kiesha Brown (179-G-79, agency: Ronsport, college: Georgia) was the leading scorer last night for Girona with 16 points. Patricia Arguello (178-F-87) shined in defeat with 23 pts. Girona 13-13 (5th place), Granca 12-14 (8th place).