EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/15/2010

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Men News

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  AUSTRALIA   


Standings - ABA
ABA Standings
Big V
 1. Ringwood H. 8-0 
 2. Diamond V.E. 6-2 
 3. Waverley F. 5-2 
 4. Hume City 3-5 
 5. Melbourne 3-5 
 6. Bulleen B. 2-5 
 7. Sherbrooke S. 2-5 
 8. Eltham W. 1-6 
Central ABL
 1. Sturt S. 7-1 
 2. Forestville E. 6-2 
 3. Norwood F. 6-2 
 4. W.Adelaide B. 6-2 
 5. N.Adelaide R. 5-3 
 6. Eastern M. 3-5 
 7. S.Adelaide P. 2-6 
 8. South.Tigers 2-6 
 9. Woodville W. 2-6 
 10. C.District L. 1-7 
QBL
 1. Northside W. 3-0 
 2. Bundaberg B. 2-0 
 3. SW Metro P. 2-0 
 4. Townsville H. 2-0 
 5. Rockhampton 1-0 
 6. Brisbane C. 1-1 
 7. Cairns M. 1-1 
 8. Gold Coast G. 1-1 
 9. Ipswich F. 1-1 
 10. Mackay M. 1-1 
 11. Gladstone P. 0-2 
 12. Maroochydore 0-2 
 13. Caboolture S. 0-3 
 14. Toowoomba 0-3 
SEABL-East
 1. Kilsyth C. 7-2 
 2. Brisbane S. 5-3 
 3. Bendigo B. 4-3 
 4. Knox R. 4-3 
 5. Ballarat M. 4-5 
 6. Dandenong 4-7 
 7. Canberra G. 2-5 
 8. AIS 1-2 
SEABL-South
 1. Geelong S. 8-4 
 2. Hobart C. 7-4 
 3. NW Tasmania 6-5 
 4. Nunawading S. 6-6 
 5. Sandringham S. 5-3 
 6. Mt Gambier 4-7 
 7. Albury W.B. 3-7 
 8. Frankston B. 2-8 
WARATAH
 1. Sydney C. 7-1 
 2. Newcastle H. 6-1 
 3. Manly Warr. 5-2 
 4. Parramatta W. 5-2 
 5. Norths Bears 4-3 
 6. Bankstown B. 4-5 
 7. Hornsby S. 3-5 
 8. Maitland M. 2-3 
 9. Hills H. 2-4 
 10. Sutherland S. 1-6 
 11. Canberra N. 0-6 


*****************************************************
  BELARUS   


BC Minsk 2006 won championship of Belarus - by Timur Tolokh
Today was the third final game in Grodno.BC Minsk 2006 won Grodno 93 with the score 59-83.And Minsk become the champion second time.Russia young talent Alexander Fomin helped minsk in last final game he have scored 19 points,Henry Harrison 14 points,Dmitry Kyzmin 12 points.Best Grodno 93 players Svirydau Anatoli 16 points,Cunda Edgars and Kachan Yury have been scored 9 points...Soon i will post more news statistics and future plans of the team BC Minsk 2006.

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


Kevin Melson claims Belgian D1 weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced American Kevin Melson (199-F-78) had an amazing evening in the last round for Optima Gent and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 35.
The 32-year old forward had the game-high 17 points adding seven rebounds for Gent his team's victory, helping them to beat Aalstar (#4, 15-16) 65-58. Gent maintains the 9th position in Belgian D1. The season is in a full swing, so it's only a dream for the team to make it into top half of the standings. For contrary they may face relegation if the situation turns from bad to worse. Gent have already lost 22 games and recorded just nine victories. In the team's last game Melson had a remarkable 53.8% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Gent and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Wright State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Melson is in league's top in points (3rd best: 16.3ppg).

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old American guard Micah Downs (203-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) of Passe-Partout Leuven Bears. Downs impressed basketball fans with 23 points and 5 rebounds. Bad luck as Leuven was edged by the higher-ranked Oostende (#3, 20-12) 77-73. Leuven managed to keep the same 8th spot in the standings. 22 lost games is too many comparing to just nine victories Leuven managed to get this year. Downs is one of the most experienced players at Leuven and has a reputation of the team's most reliable player.

The third best performed player last round was American B.J. Raymond (198-G/F-87, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM)) of Generali Okapi Aalstar (#4). Raymond scored 20 points and grabbed six rebounds. Despite Raymond's great performance Aalstar lost 58-65 to the lower-ranked Gent (#9, 9-22). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Aalstar ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 16 games, recording just fifteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Raymond could help Aalstar to bring them higher in the standings. Raymond has a very solid season. In 31 games in Belgium he scored 13.7ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Darnell Wilson (198-F-85) of VOO Verviers-Pepinster - 16 points and 7 rebounds
5. Craig Callahan (203-F-81) of M.Hainaut - 13 points and 9 rebounds
6. Wes Wilkinson (207-F-84) of Charleroi - 16 points and 6 rebounds
7. Stephane Pelle (204-C/F-80) of Oostende - 13 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Christopher Hill (191-G-83) of Charleroi - 10 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Justin Cage (198-F-85) of M.Hainaut - 14 points and 7 rebounds
10. John Tofi (203-F/C-84) of Verviers-Pep. - 12 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists

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  BRAZIL   


Pitagoras/Minas force decider - by Eurobasket News
Pitagoras/Minas forced the decisive fifth game in the semifinal series against Universo/BRB. Minas claimed a 78:71 success in Game 4 to level the series. Murilo da Rosa (210-C/F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) had another big night for the hosts as he knocked down 21 points.
Pitagoras/Minas started the game strongly. They tipped off the clash with a 25:15 ten minutes. Universo/BRB managed to adjust their offense in the second frame. They fired 24 points to cut the deficit to 7 points at the interval. But the third frame turned into a defensive battle with neither side able to dominate. Pitagoras/Minas snatched an 8-point cushion before the fourth term. The hosts stood firm in the fourth quarter denying any effort from Universo/BRB to get within striking distance. Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) finished with 19 points for Pitagoras/Minas. William Drudi (206-C/F-81) delivered 18 points in the victory. Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) notched 18 points for the visitors. Valtinho Silva (187-G-77, agency: Interperformances) netted 16 points in the loss. The fifth game in the series is scheduled for Saturday in Brasilia.


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  BULGARIA   


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Aaron HARPER
  Levski
  (199-G/F-81)
  Avg: 22.7
 1. Harper, Levski22.7 
 2. Cole, Levski18.8 
 3. Durchev, Chernomo.18.4 
 4. Gruev, Rilski Sport18.1 
 5. Bozov, Balkan18.0 
 6. Antic, Lukoil A.17.4 
 7. Brown, Chernomo.16.6 
 8. Dimitrov, Spart.16.2 
 9. Webb, Cherno More15.6 
 10. Dimitrov, Cherno M.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Pero ANTIC
  Lukoil A.
  (210-F-82)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Antic, Lukoil A.9.8 
 2. Brown, Chernomo.8.7 
 3. Brown, Lukoil A.8.0 
 4. Peterson, Rilski S.8.0 
 5. Radev, Balkan7.5 
 6. Burgess, Rilski Sport7.4 
 7. Kennerly, Spart.7.3 
 8. Ware, Cherno More6.9 
 9. Morton, Chernomo.6.7 
 10. Tmusic, Yambol6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Aleksandar GRUEV
  Rilski Sport
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Gruev, Rilski Sport5.5 
 2. Aleksiev, Chernomo.4.8 
 3. Mirakovski, Cherno M.4.4 
 4. Webb, Cherno More4.1 
 5. Radionov, Yambol3.9 
 6. Deane, Lukoil A.3.5 
 7. Frasor, Levski3.4 
 8. Lilov, Balkan3.4 
 9. Dimitrov, Spart.3.3 
 10. Bozov, Balkan3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Julian RADIONOV
  Yambol
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Radionov, Yambol2.5 
 2. Deane, Lukoil A.2.2 
 3. Lilov, Balkan2.1 
 4. Harper, Levski2.0 
 5. Zahariev, Chernomo.1.9 
 6. Zhelev, Cherno M.1.7 
 7. Dimitrov, Spart.1.7 
 8. Velikov, Levski1.6 
 9. Bozov, Balkan1.6 
 10. Angelov, Yambol1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Ernest BROWN
  Toros
  (213-C-79)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Brown, Lukoil A.1.5 
 2. Brown, Chernomo.1.4 
 3. Gocevski, Yambol0.9 
 4. Earl, Yambol0.9 
 5. Ware, Cherno More0.8 
 6. Peterson, Rilski S.0.8 
 7. Cole, Levski0.7 
 8. Preston, Rilski Sport0.7 
 9. Morton, Chernomo.0.7 
 10. Radev, Balkan0.6 


*****************************************************
  COLOMBIA   


Federation Cup News - by Victor Garcia
The Colombian Basketball Federation made a meeting on past Wednesday, in order to made the arrangements for the upcoming 2010 Federation Cup, 9 teams arrived to the meeting as candidates, Cucuta-Norte, Bucaros, Islanders, Piratas, Arrieros, Cangrejeros, Valle, Patriotas and Cundinamarca.
Some of the teams still have debts from the last Cup, included a couple that still owes money from two cups before.
Beyond this aspect the teams rejected a sponsoring proposal from Postobon (one of the biggest companies and economic groups in the country), waiting to find a better offer.
The Cup is schedulled to began on August 27, and just 8 teams will receive the invitation.

Tragedy in Cartago - by Victor Garcia
The National U-17 Tournament currently in Cartago had a tragedy, Miguel Serrano a well know coach of the Liga de Risaralda died in a car accident on past Wednesday may 13, Serrano was driving in the night as he did each day from his home in Pereira (Risaralda's capital) to Cartago in order to atend his duties as Risaralda head coach.
The organization just found the accident the day after.
The Colombian Basketball brotherhood send his deep feelings to Miguel Serrano family in this dark day, Serrano memories will live troght his family and players.

National U-17 Tournament in Cartago - by Victor Garcia
Cartago in the hear of the Valle del Cauca is the host of the 2010 National Men Tournament for U-17, 12 teams are already playing for the gold, the groups were seeded as follows:

Group A:
Valle A
Magdalena
La Guajira
Tolima
Risaralda
Bogot

Group B:
Valle B
Cundinamarca
Antioquia
Guaviare
Cesar
Norte.

8 of the 12 teams qualified to the second round and the results of this games are as follows:

Antioquia 83 vs Bogot 62
Cundinamarca 89 vs Risaralda 60
Magdalena 96 vs Norte 106
Valle 56 vs Cesr 42.
The seminifals are:
Cundinamarca vs Norte
Valle vs Antioquia.

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  CROATIA   


Croatia in race for Euro 2013 - by Milan Jovanovic
On the last meeting of Croatian basketball association, the decision has been made that Croatia officially apply for the organization of Eurobasket 2013.
General secretad Zeljko Draksic is already on his way to Munchen, where on Saturday the next meeting of FIBA Europe is to be held, when Croatia will officialy file their aplication.
The other competitors for the mentioned championship are Turkey, Slovenia, Germany, Greece and Italy, with chances of France joining them soon.

Barisa Krasic claims Croatian A1 weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced Bosnia and Herzegovina Barisa Krasic (203-F-78) had an amazing evening in the last round for Cedevita Zagreb and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13 (Second Stage).
The 32-year old forward had the game-high 30 points adding five rebounds for Cedevita his team's victory, helping them to crush Zabok (#6, 4-9) with 19-point margin 96-77. Cedevita maintains the 3rd position in Croatian A1. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. Cedevita will need more victories to improve their 10-3 record. In the team's last game Krasic had a remarkable six three-pointers out of 9 attempts. He turned to be Cedevita's top player in his first season with the team. Barisa Krasic averages this season 11.5ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old forward Ante Krapic (202-F-85) of KK Zabok. Krapic impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Zabok lost that game 77-96 to the higher-ranked Cedevita (#3, 10-3). Zabok managed to keep the same 6th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-9 record. Krapic is a newcomer at Zabok and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become team's real leader.

The third best performed player last round was former international forward Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) of top-ranked KK Zadar. Peric scored 23 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Peric's great performance Zadar lost 68-91 to #2 ranked Cibona. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. Zadar had another "accident". It may be a crucial game and cause dropping from the group of top ranked teams. The record is still good, but 2nd lost game is hopefully really an accident. Peric's teammates are also very good. That's why having such high stats is even more impressive. Peric has a great season in Croatia. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.5ppg (7th best) and rebounds with 6.7rpg (9th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87) of Cibona - 9 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists
5. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) of KK Zagreb CO - 18 points, 14 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Matej Karlovic (200-F-89) of Svjetlost - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Gamma Kamaldin (203-F/C-80) of Darda - 20 points and 8 rebounds
8. Luka Drezga (196-G-87) of Trogir - 15 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Filip Vukicevic (203-F-88) of Svjetlost - 10 points and 9 rebounds
10. Tomislav Ruzic (208-F/C-79) of Zadar - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Myles MCKAY
  USK Praha
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 22.7
 1. McKay, USK P.22.7 
 2. Thomas, Podebrady17.0 
 3. Smith, BC Kolin16.7 
 4. Hatcher, BK Decin16.3 
 5. Stuchly, NH Ostrava15.8 
 6. Meno, Basketbo.15.4 
 7. Castleberry, Podeb.15.1 
 8. Hampton, BK Pardu.14.9 
 9. Stec, B&W Opava14.3 
 10. Mulligan, BK Decin14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tremaine FORD
  USK Praha
  (207-F-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Ford, USK Praha11.0 
 2. Castleberry, Podeb.9.4 
 3. Meno, Basketbo.9.0 
 4. Burke, NH Ostrava8.1 
 5. Landry, BK Prost.7.6 
 6. Chan, BK Prostejov7.4 
 7. Houska, BK Decin7.0 
 8. Arnold, BK Pardu.6.5 
 9. Payne, NH Ostrava6.5 
 10. Klimes, USK Praha5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Brad JONES
  BC Kolin
  (186-G-85)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Jones, BC Kolin4.7 
 2. Mitchell, NH Os.4.5 
 3. Sanders, Novy Jicin4.4 
 4. Lawrence, BK Prost.4.3 
 5. Carnecky, B&W O.4.3 
 6. Kotas, USK Praha4.3 
 7. Hatcher, BK Decin3.9 
 8. McKay, USK P.3.8 
 9. Vrubl, Basketbo.3.7 
 10. Wright, BK Pardu.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Eugene LAWRENCE
  BK Prostejov
  (184-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Lawrence, BK Prost.2.3 
 2. Kotas, USK Praha2.2 
 3. Mitchell, NH Os.2.1 
 4. Wright, BK Pardu.2.0 
 5. Meno, Basketbo.1.9 
 6. McKay, USK P.1.8 
 7. Mulligan, BK Decin1.8 
 8. Sirina, B&W Opava1.8 
 9. Necas, CEZ Nymburk1.7 
 10. Kremen, CEZ N.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Ales CHAN
  BK Prostejov
  (214-C-80)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Chan, BK Prostejov1.6 
 2. Ford, USK Praha1.5 
 3. Walker, Novy Jicin1.4 
 4. Meno, Basketbo.1.3 
 5. Payne, NH Ostrava1.2 
 6. Castleberry, Podeb.1.1 
 7. Pelikan, Novy Jicin1.0 
 8. Ricci, CEZ Nymburk1.0 
 9. Houska, BK Decin0.9 
 10. Steffel, Novy Jicin0.9 


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  DENMARK   


Denmark U16 improved to 2-1 record - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U16 improved to 2-1 record at the Nordic Cup that just started between five teams. In the opener of the tournament they overcame Finland U16 98:67. Denmark started with 28-17 in the opening quarter and added 21-19 in the second frame. It was an easy third quarter for the winners that produced 26-10 in it and also added 23-21 in the last stanza. Peter Moller top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen collected 17 points and 10 rebounds, while David Norby Knudsen posted 13. Severi Liljeberg (174-G-94) ended up with 16 points in the losing case.
On May 13th Sweden U16 won over Denmark U16 67:60. The latter looked better in the opening quarter and started with 19-15 lead. Moreover they added 16-12 in the second period to take 8-point lead at the halftime. Sweden U16 bounced back in the second half winning the third and the last periods. At first they closed the gap with 25-17 in the third quarter and then had 15-8 in the last stanza. Nicholas Spires (205-F-94) exploded with 28 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Papy Ndiaye (187-G-94) and Niklas Larsson nailed 11 points each in a win. Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen ended up with 12 points in the losing effort.
On May 14th Denmark outscored Norway 69:64. The latter took minimum 17-16 lead after the first period and was too good in the second frame after 26-12 win. It seemed that the intrigue was over, however Denmark was too far to give up. They produced 21-8 in the third quarter and won the game after 20-13 in the final stanza. Peter Moller stepped up with 25 points and 8 rebounds, while Aleksander Also Dokkedal and Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen netted 8 each. Espen Fjaerestad shined with 35 points in the losing effort.

Denmark U18 lost the game after two victories - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18 won the first two games of the International tournament of Nordic Cup, however today lost to Sweden U18.
Denmark U18 won over Iceland U18 in the start of the Nordic Cup. The Danish team opened the game with 22-15 lead, but lost the second period 11-21. Iceland won the third quarter 19-14 and only 16-11 for Danish team in the last quarter sent the teams to overtime. In the last five minutes Denmark produced 19-8 to win the opener. Kevin Larsen (203-F-93) stepped up with 23 points and 8 rebounds, while Soren Dosssing netted 21. Haukur Helgi Palsson exploded with 35 points in the losing effort, 7 rebounds and 6 steals.
Denmark celebrated their second win in the tournament beating Finland 71:50. The latter however was better in the opening quarter and won it 20-11. The picture completely had changed in the second period as Denmark produced 25-4 to take the lead. With 21-11 they increased the advantage and benefit from the game. Tue Leth Nielsen top-scored for the winners with 13 points and 8 rebounds as well as Niels Andreasen collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Villematti Kopio (181-G-92) finished with the same number of points in defeat.
Sweden won over Denmark in the top game of the third day of the competition. The Swedish side improved to 3-0 record after 79:62 victory. Sebastian Norman (204-C-92) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Marcus Eriksson netted 13. Andreas Bigum (203-F-93) and Kevin Larsen responded with 12 points each in the losing case.


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


Al Ittihad Alexandria proves the ambitions for the top places - by Eurobasket News
Al Ittihad Alexandria proves the ambitions for the top places in Arab Club Championships. In the last game of the Second Stage the team overcame Ittihad Tanger from Morocco 107:82. They opened the game with 22-20 and had massive 28-19 second period. The hosts held the score for good and won the third straight game in the group to win it with 3-0 record.
Tonight Al Kuwait will meet Al Riyadi in the first Semifinal at 15.00. Later today Al Ittihad Alexandria will pay against Moutahed from Lebanon.

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Charron FISHER
  Kalev/Cramo
  (193-G/F-85)
  Avg: 22.4
 1. Fisher, Kalev/Cr.22.4 
 2. McGee, Kuremaa19.2 
 3. Reed, Tallinna Kalev16.5 
 4. Covington, Tallin.16.4 
 5. Toome, TTU K.16.1 
 6. Kriisa, Rakvere15.9 
 7. Raap, Parnu15.2 
 8. Veideman, Rakvere15.1 
 9. Tamsalu, Parnu15.1 
 10. Akognon, Kalev/Cr.15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brett MCGEE
  Kuremaa
  (198-G/F-84)
  Avg: 11
 1. McGee, Kuremaa11.0 
 2. Ringmets, Parnu9.6 
 3. Reed, Tallinna Kalev9.2 
 4. Toome, TTU K.8.9 
 5. Fisher, Kalev/Cr.8.3 
 6. Rinkevicius, Valga W.8.0 
 7. Erm, Parnu7.9 
 8. Tagamets, Valga W.7.7 
 9. Keerles, Kalev/Cr.7.5 
 10. Talts, TU/Rock7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Valmo KRIISA
  Rakvere
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Kriisa, Rakvere4.5 
 2. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.7 
 3. Rannula, Valga Welg3.2 
 4. Winston, Kuremaa2.6 
 5. Saage, Rakvere2.6 
 6. Toome, TTU K.2.6 
 7. Leppik, TU/Rock2.6 
 8. Tein, TU/Rock2.6 
 9. Abernethy, TU/Rock2.5 
 10. Sokk, TU/Rock2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Nicholas COVINGTON
  Tallinna Kalev
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Covington, Tallin.2.2 
 2. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 3. Raap, Parnu2.1 
 4. Fisher, Kalev/Cr.2.1 
 5. Karner, Parnu2.0 
 6. Saage, Rakvere1.9 
 7. Veideman, Rakvere1.8 
 8. Kriisa, Rakvere1.7 
 9. Ringmets, Parnu1.7 
 10. Pokla, TTU K.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Kennyetta JOHNSON
  Kalev/Cramo
  (210-C-78)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Johnson, Kalev/Cr.2.3 
 2. Rinkevicius, Valga W.1.9 
 3. Toome, TTU K.1.5 
 4. Morrison, TU/Rock1.2 
 5. McGee, Kuremaa1.1 
 6. Talts, TU/Rock1.0 
 7. Hallik, Rakvere0.9 
 8. Ringmets, Parnu0.7 
 9. Kitsing, TU/Rock0.6 
 10. Saks, TTU K.0.6 


TU/Rock win EKML - by Eurobasket News
TU/Rock celebrated the victory at the Korvpalli Meistriliiga. The Tartu team clinched the fourth straight win in the championship series. TU/Rock edged Rakvere 89:80 on the road to claim the title. Todd Abernethy (185-G-84, college: Mississippi) came up with arguably the best performance of the entire season. The guard tallied 30 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists for the champions.
TU/Rock overcame a slow start to take a 21:16 lead at the first break. The visitors stayed in front in the second period. TU/Rock arrived at the interval enjoying a 9-point lead 44:35. However Rakvere refused to surrender. The hosts went on a determined comeback rally in the third stanza. Rakvere cut the margin and eventually denied the deficit. The teams headed into the fourth frame tied at 62. But TU/Rock managed to eke out the victory. Led by Todd Abernethy the visitors pulled ahead and sealed the victory.
Silver Leppik (185-G-83) netted 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds for TU/Rock. Scott Morrison (212-C-86, college: Portland St.) had 13 points in the victory. Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) responded with 19 points and 7 rebounds for Rakvere. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) notched 18 points in the loss.


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


Finland U18 is tied with 1-1 record - by Eurobasket News
Finland U18 is tied with 1-1 record at the International Tournament with five teams.
In the first day the team met Denmark that won the opern the day earlier. Denmark celebrated their second win in the tournament beating Finland 71:50. The latter however was better in the opening quarter and won it 20-11. The picture completely had changed in the second period as Denmark produced 25-4 to take the lead. With 21-11 they increased the advantage and benefit from the game. Tue Leth Nielsen top-scored for the winners with 13 points and 8 rebounds as well as Niels Andreasen (191-G-92) collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Villematti Kopio (181-G-92) finished with the same number of points in defeat.
Finland edged Norway 83:60 on May 13th. Finland grabbed 21-11 in the opening period and added 23-11 in the second period. In the third frame Norway managed to wake up and responded with 24-16. Only due to 23-14 in the last quarter Finland celebrated the total success. Miikka Marttinen (195-F-92) and Markus Molenius (202-F/C-92) stepped up with 11 points each for the winners. Steinar Rakneberg (201-C-92) ended up with 12 points in the losing effort.
Tonight Finland will face Sweden that are leaders in the tournament with 3-0 record.

Finland U16 lost first two games at Nordic Cup - by Eurobasket News
Finland U16 lost first two games at the Nordic Cup that just started between five teams. In the opener of the tournament they lost to Denmark U16 67:98. Denmark started with 28-17 in the opening quarter and added 21-19 in the second frame. It was an easy third quarter for the winners that produced 26-10 in it and also added 23-21 in the last stanza. Peter Moller top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen collected 17 points and 10 rebounds, while David Norby Knudsen posted 13. Severi Liljeberg (174-G-94) ended up with 16 points in the losing case.
On May 13th Finland was smashed by Iceland U16 47:74. The latter proved the difference fromt he very beginning as they started with 25-10 lead. Finland however won the second frame 16-13 and stayed tough in the court. In the third period Iceland took the bigger lead after 12-9 in the third quarter. With 24-12 Iceland won the last stanza and the game itself. Matthias Siguroarson top-scored for the winners with 13 points and Emil Karel Einarsson notched 11. Valur Orri Valsson delivered 9, while Maciej Stanislav Baginski, Stefn Karel Torfason and Sigurour Dagur Sturluson had 8 each.

KORISLIIGA: Jyri Lehtonen moves to Kouvola - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Kouvot (Kouvola) and Jyri Lehtonen, 36, have signed a 3-year-contract, which means Lehtonen coaching career will not go on at Uusikaupunki but in Kouvola. After a long (1991-2006) international (FIN, FRA, ITA, GER, SPA) playing career, Lehtonen was offered a Head Coach job by Korihait in January 2007. Since then Lehtonen has been coaching 150 regular season games plus 15 play-off-games. The winning percentages are 51,3% (77-73) in regular season contests and 20,0% (3-12) in the play-off-games.

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


Stats Leaders - N1
NM1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Blair, Denek 25.7
2 Harris, Etienne 18.4
3 Adell, Lievin 18.0
4 Yates, Maritime 17.9
5 Bichard, Quentin 16.2
Rebounds Per Game
1 Viglianco, Denek 9.5
2 Lesieu, Quentin 8.6
3 Swanson, Angers 8.5
4 Condouant, Blois 8.4
5 Ocokoljic, Cognac 8.2
Blocks Per Game
1 Westerm., Federal 4.2
2 Patiejunas, Mar. 3.5
3 Brochard, Blois 3.4
2FGP
1 Tensorer, Blois 63.4
2 Koita, Loire 63.1
3 Lonzieme, Angers 62.8
3FGP
1 Atamna, Reims 48.0
2 Pridotkas, Espe 46.2
3 Desmond, Quincy 45.1
Free Throws
1 Axton, Reims 87.2
2 Lehut, Lievin 85.5
3 Cherasse, Vendee 84.7


ProA : Dijon hires coach Borg - by Aurelien Hipp
*After a terrific season in ProA (only 7 games won out of 30), Dijon has signed coach Jean-Louis Borg for 3 seasons. The main objectif will be to bring Dijon back in ProA, after having spent 20 years in the french top league. Borg spent last 5 years in Vichy and had good results with little money. He also was Vincent Collet 's assistant for the last French NT campaign. Borg led Vichy to a 13-17 record this season. In Dijon, he will replace Henrik Dettmann , who coudln't save a team, despite big efforts, definitely heading to ProB since last december.

Getting paid to receive a European education in Basketball - by Joshua Gomes
As I got asked to start this blog, I was more so wanting to direct this message to the younger ballers out there who possibly know nothing about European basketball and want to start their career. After finishing my career at Eastern Illinois University in 06', besides for the few players that I have played with, I didn't know what I was walking into. I will never forget that first night I was here, with no cell, no internet, and no money given to me yet but expected to adapt to this new life as soon as possible. That's why I enjoy this website. If you want to stay connected with whats going on out here, this is the site to check. Facebook along with this are on my toolbar lol. I believe that every American player who comes to Europe is getting paid to receive a European education in basketball. At some point in the time in your career that thought will come to you as well. They say 90% of all college players can't get into the NBA. With knowing that statistic, the clock doesn't have to stop here. Europe is a one-way ticket to so many opportunities and life experiences that you will never forget.

The reason why I love basketball to this day is because it feels the same way it did as when I first picked up a ball. If someone is going to give you this opportunity to continue that feeling, then never look at statistics. If you are fresh off walking out of campus and not too sure on your next move, I would first tell you to RESEARCH. Be educated. Know what you are getting into. Ask questions and always have an open mind. Just like your classmate who has worked hard for 4 years to be what he/she wanted to be, you have done the same. Treat this job just like someone who has a (9-5) and your career will prosper. This is the best job in the world hands down!!!! However at the same time you must know that it is a business. More so an 'Entertainment Business'. In the corporate world, if your business does not have supporters it will not prosper. Vice versa. Here its the sports world, which at times can be even more corrupt. You win? Everyone will love you. You lose? You go home. It is a winners game with the mentality 'What have you done for me lately'. Once you take that in, you will understand how to focus just on getting the job done.

I found my first job with a Polish club (AZS Koszalin.... my shout out to Lue ha) September 13th 2006 and was expected to leave on the 14th. That was nuts but I was just glad to just get out my moms house. That year is where I learned the most on how to handle myself as a professional. However, each year you will pick up things from teammates and pass them along. My next country stop was Israel and now France ProB. We are currently in the playoffs starting next Tuesday and will head up with the league leader Pau-Orthez. Everything has been and everything takes an adjustment. But I have been fortunate to be in good situations (along with bad) and had good relationships with some good coaches. Remember the bad situations are sometimes the best to learn from. There will always be trials, frustrations, ups and downs in your career. Sometimes you might even have to take 2-3 steps back just to get where you must go. However with the right mentality and work ethic, you will always bounce back in the game. To give you a quick example, I am still waiting, for over a year, on my last few payments from a former team. And was recently told I have to fly to the country just to open up a bank account so it can be wired to me!? Not getting paid is one of the few tough parts about being in Europe. It for sure wont happen to you every year and of course depends on where you play. My advice to you would to be always professional and never let a team just walk over you. You are the player and you are in the driver's seat!

To wind this up and give you a quick few more pointers, I would tell you just to be patience with your career! Patience is a virtue and you must have it in order to succeed in life and basketball! I think a lot of individuals and teams go wrong when they start thinking about their contracts for next year and lose focus on the main goal in front of them, which is to win. Always have an open mind, along with being understanding to other peoples differences and cultures. These things will prolong your career and advance you for the future. Keep working hard.
Blog is maintained by Joshua Gomes (190-G-83, college: E.Illinois)

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


Kevin Hamilton (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) Pregame Thoughts To Game Three Agaisnt The EWE Baskets Oldenburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York. This season, he is playing for The New York Phantoms Braunschweig. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1 (6.4apg), Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. This past summer, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing 35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3 (6.3apg), Steals-2 (1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. Kevin spoke to eurobasket before game three against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg.

Congrats Kevin on the win in game two against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg. Was this the biggest win of the season?


Yes it is our biggest so far.


The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig had a scoring explosion in the second quarter out scoring Oldenburg 23-12. What did the Braunschweig offense do differently form the first quarter?


I think we spaced the floor real well and we got the ball out in transition. We need to start getting some easier baskets so we figured we needed to be more aggressive on the break.

The third quarter was low scoring for both teams. What were both teams doing differently on defense?



I think we just both paid attention to detail. At this part of the season all the teams know what each other are going to do, so we just play each others offenses the best we can.

In the fourth quarter, Oldenburg was never able to cut the Braunschweig lead to less than five points. What was the biggest strength on defense?



We just played real good team defense. Helping each other out on penetrations , hedges, everything.

What adjustments did Braunschweig make on defense which allowed key player Rickey Paulding to shoot 3/12?


Well he is a real good player, so all you can really do is get a hand up in his face and contest his shots. Some days he is still going to make them, but luckily yesterday he didn't.

What was the biggest Braunschweig strength on offense?


Yesterday it was Jason Cain getting to the basket and finishing strong.

The series is tied 1-1. Game three will be the game that could decide the series. What will Braunschweig want to do differently from game one which was lost in Oldenburg?



Everything. We have to come out with energy and limit our mistakes.

Marko Scekic was a beast. Why is he so hard to control?


He is real strong and is a very smart player as well. He has good post moves and is a good passer.

What will be key to winning game three?


Defense.

Were you surprised by how quickly the NBA semi final playoffs series went with three sweeps?



A little. I think the next round will be more interesting.

Thanks Kev for chat.


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


Wins for D-Team and Elite BC - by Gianni Pascucci
In the last round of LPB, D-Team prevailed over Compusys 101-93, with Enrique Samayoa (193-F-82) and Heber Rodriguez (185-G-82) leading the way at 32 and 30 points, respectively. The game best scorer was however, Cesar Catalan (180-G-75), who ended the game at 34 pts for Compusys. Few days after, Lanco Elite BC took a clear win, 113-85, over Universidad Rafael Landivar, and the game main performers were Juan Jose Rosales (181-G-82) at 32 and Pablo Cano (178-G-88) at 23 in Elite BC, Emilio Mendizabal at 14 and Jose Ordonez (G) at 12 in URL. Tomorrow night, D-Team will meet table header USAC in a very important game.

Standings
LPB Standings
1. USAC 8-0
2. LancoElite B.C. 8-2
3. D-Team 7-1
4. Compusys 5-6
5. URL 2-6
6. Australian Milk 2-7
7. Le Mans 1-8


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


Stats Leaders - Eredivisie
Points Per Game
 Danny GIBSON
  ZZ Leiden
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Gibson, ZZ Leiden18.3 
 2. Palmer, Upstairs.17.6 
 3. Monroe, DeFriesl.16.9 
 4. Boxley, ZZ Leiden16.6 
 5. Thomas, M.Magix16.5 
 6. Haryasz, GasTerra.16.3 
 7. Hendley, Landstede16.2 
 8. Calhoun, EclipseJet15.9 
 9. Sanders, EclipseJet14.8 
 10. LeMelle, ZZ Leiden14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Patrick HILLIMAN
  Rotterdam
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Hilliman, Rotterdam10.2 
 2. Palmer, Upstairs.9.2 
 3. Haryasz, GasTerra.9.0 
 4. Ellis, GasTerra F.8.7 
 5. McGhee, ZZ Leiden8.4 
 6. Gordon, Landstede8.1 
 7. Monroe, DeFriesl.7.6 
 8. Beasley, Eiff.Tow.7.4 
 9. Griffin, Giants7.3 
 10. de Randamie, Eclip.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  Guaros
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Thomas, M.Magix6.8 
 2. Jones, DeFriesland5.5 
 3. Oliver, Eiff.Towers5.4 
 4. Porter, Upstairs.5.0 
 5. Gibson, ZZ Leiden4.3 
 6. Bauscher, GasTerra.4.2 
 7. Bostain, GasTerra.4.1 
 8. Blackwood, DeFriesl.4.0 
 9. Defares, Giants4.0 
 10. Kimbrough, Giants3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  Guaros
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Thomas, M.Magix2.9 
 2. Jones, DeFriesland2.8 
 3. Bauscher, GasTerra.2.6 
 4. Dourisseau, GasTerra.2.6 
 5. Rodgers, EclipseJet2.6 
 6. Mason, EclipseJet2.4 
 7. Ellis, GasTerra F.2.3 
 8. Flowers, M.Magix2.3 
 9. de Randamie, Eclip.2.2 
 10. Bostain, GasTerra.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 James HUGHES
  M.Magix
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hughes, M.Magix1.8 
 2. Hilliman, Rotterdam1.5 
 3. Haryasz, GasTerra.1.4 
 4. Sanders, EclipseJet1.1 
 5. Boxley, ZZ Leiden1.1 
 6. Kuijper, ZZ Leiden1.0 
 7. Slor, ZZ Leiden1.0 
 8. Richardson, Eiff.Tow.0.9 
 9. Porter, Upstairs.0.9 
 10. Williams, Landstede0.7 


GasTerra Flames advance to Eredivisie Finals - by Eurobasket News
GasTerra F. - ZZ Leiden 80-70
GasTerra Flames outplayed ZZ Leiden in crucial Game Five and booked a spot for the Playoff Finals. Robby Bostain (194-G/F-84, college: Furman) shined for the hosts last night with 23 points and 5 assists. Tim Blue (205-F-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) had 19 points and 5 boards, while Matt Bauscher (188-G-85, agency: 540 Sports, college: Boise St.) added 15 pts and also 5 rebs. In the loosing squad, Seamus Boxley (201-F-82, college: Portland St.) collected 19 points and 8 boards. GasTerra Flames will meet Giants in the Finals.


EYE ON THE PRIZE - by Matt Bauscher
Since writing my last blog, I feel like I've gone on every roller coaster at Disney World. The dutch saying 'tall trees get more wind' has never been so appropiate in our case. After losing game 1 to Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden at home, people acted like the world had ended. It's a best out of 5 series and you would have thought some people suffered a death in the family. We bounced back winning games 2 and 3 despite not being able to throw a ball in the ocean from 3 point range. Our defense and rebounding has been Coach Marco's philosophy since August and it was paying off. Game 4 was on the road and we had them on the ropes ready for the knockout. We gave up a 17 point second half lead, eventually falling in OT by 2 points. After the game, we couldn't believe it. However, Coach Marco van den Berg was the so positive it was unreal- 'it's basketball, we will win game 5.' We sat at the back of the bus on the ride home and a few of us couldn't help but laugh, obviously it wasn't funny...the next 44 hours would be spent without much sleep or appetite. Playing against Utah State in college we lost a 10 point lead with 1 min 30 seconds left, so in my 25 years I've seen damn near everything. Reggie Miller once scored 8 points in 12 seconds...that's why basketball is the best sport in the entire WORLD- not soccer, rugby, baseball or golf. With the pride, expectations and hope of the city wanting a championship brought to Groningen the pressure was on. One thing that comes with high expectations, is high rewards. If our jobs were easy then everybody would do it. Can you imagine a school teacher having thousands of people in their classroom YELLING for or against them? Game 5 last night was a war, which everybody in Holland expected. We eventually pulled away getting a 10 point victory and punching our ticket to the finals- which begin tomorrow night here in Groningen.

No short-cuts, no excuses. If I had a Euro for everytime our coaches have preached that this season, my post season trip to Ibiza, Spain would be free! Excuses aside let's be realistic, if Matt Haryasz (210-C-84, college: Stanford) (best center in Holland) hadn't broke his foot...the series probably would have been a sweep. WE gotta give Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden credit though, they came out fighting and never layed down...as a player you have to respect that. Getting tested is good for us and our team unity. With almost everybody returning next season, this will help our chemistry for the future. The crazy thing about the finals is that three Boise St. guys will be playing. Jason Ellis (201-F-82, college: Boise St.) who has been an absolute beast for us and Bryan Defares who plays for Bergen op Zoom. We all workout during the summer together, so bragging rights will be on.

I got the Boston Celtics winning the title this year, Kevin Garnett (208-F-76, agency: Pro Management Agency) is my favorite player...plays with so much emotion I love it. It's funny how LeBron James (203-F-84) is known as The King, maybe best player of all time...has one bad game and the entire world starts doubting him. That's how this business works....it's all about 'what have you done for me lately.' Until next time BAUSCH-LUV-DAKIDS


Preview of the Dutch Playoffs Final - by Fred Roggen
The Dutch Championship is set, ZZ Leiden was taken down by GasTerra Flames, and WCAA Giants skated by DeFriesland Aris. The first game between GasTerra Flames and WCAA Giants tips off on Saturday at Martiniplaza in Groningen. GasTerra Flames and WCAA Giants are primed for this last series as both enter it playing their best ball of the entire season.
Jesse Kimbrough (183-G-82, college: Jacksonville) has proven to be one of the most potent playoff forces on the hardwood this year, doing just about anything and everything to help his club win.
For the Flames, Jason Ellis (201-F-82, college: Boise St.) has shown that hes a major power in the league. Pounding the boards, hitting from the paint and leading by example.
In seven games or less one of these clubs will win it all. If WCAA Giants can slow down GasTerra Flames while also neutralizing their bench, the Giants will have their first-ever title. But if GasTerra Flames can wear WCAA Giants down and dominate at the foul line, the championship is theirs. The boards, especially on offense, will be instrumental in determining the winner of this playoff contest. GasTerra Flames has the edge there. However, GasTerra Flames grinds down teams with their stubborn defense. If the Flames can do that, it may be 2004 all over again. The Flames starting lineup features players in their prime. They were tested by a tough ZZ Leiden team and responded with determined, athletic play. If theres a weakness on this team, its at center, the team still waiting on the return of Matt Haryasz (210-C-84, college: Stanford), but to offset that GasTerra Flames has a wealth of talented, skilled swingmen who can play both inside and outside. WCAA Giants, led by Bryan Defares (192-G-81, college: Boise St.), will continue to use their speed to dominate both ends of the court. Accurate shooting and quick ball movement are this teams trademarks.
My prediction, GasTerra Flames wins series 4-2.

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


Standings
IBL Standings
 1. Nevada P. 0-2 
Continental Division
 1. Battle Creek K. 7-5 
 2. Holland B. 6-3 
 3. Albany L. 5-1 
 4. Kankakee S. 4-4 
 5. L.Angeles L. 2-0 
 6. Tacoma T. 2-5 
 7. USA All-Stars 2-19 
 8. Edmonton E. 0-0 
International Division
 1. Yamhill H. 5-1 
 2. Olympia R. 5-2 
 3. B.Colombia T. 4-2 
 4. Vancouver V. 4-4 
 5. Bellingham S. 3-2 
 6. C.Oregon H. 3-2 
 7. Oregon W. 0-0 
 8. Shanxi Zh. 0-0 


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


Iceland U18 plays the Nordic Cup - by Eurobasket News
Iceland U18 plays the Nordic Cup as five teams participate in the International tournament.
Denmark U18 won over Iceland U18 in the start of the Nordic Cup. The Danish team opened the game with 22-15 lead, but lost the second period 11-21. Iceland won the third quarter 19-14 and only 16-11 for Danish team in the last quarter sent the teams to overtime. In the last five minutes Denmark produced 19-8 to win the opener. Kevin Larsen (203-F-93) stepped up with 23 points and 8 rebounds, while Soren Dosssing netted 21. Haukur Helgi Palsson exploded with 35 points in the losing effort, 7 rebounds and 6 steals.
On May 13th Sweden overcame Iceland 77:67. The Swedish side opened the game with 19-13 lead at the Solnahallen. Iceland replied with 21-20 in the second frame, but Sweden was better in the third period for 21-9. Again Iceland responded with 24-17 in the final frame, however could not catch up with the winners. William Magarity (205-F-93) led the way with 18 points and 7 rebounds, whilst Marcus Eriksson notched 13. Oddur Olafsson (183-G-92) posted 23 points in the losing effort.
Norway lost to Iceland 65:76 on May 14th. It was a successful start for Norway that took 15-14 after the opening quarter. Iceland however grabbed the advantage after 24-19 in the second frame. They also won the third period 23-17 and finished with 15-14 in the last stanza. Haukur Helgi Palsson paced all the winners with 19 points, while Oddur Olafsson followed him with 14. Bouna Ndiaye produced 17 points for Norway.


*****************************************************
  IRAN   


Qom , Pouya and Melli Haffari ; 3 New Teams in Iran Superleague... - by Mohammad Ahmadi
Iran Basketball League in Division1 finished and Rah Tarabari of QOM City got the Title.
In Final Games, Rah Tarabari Qom defeated Pouya of Tehran after 3 games (2-1) and won the Championship of Division1 and could come to Iran Superleague for upcoming season. Pouya Club will have a new Sponser named Erte'ashat San'ati and will participate the league with this New Name !!
Third Team is Melli Haffari of Ahvaz which will be in Superleague next Season.

At the other hand, Iran Basketball Federation let Shahrekord Club to remain in Superleague for Next season and they wont be in Division1.

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


Premier L. Round: 4 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Bnei Hasharon - Maccabi T-A 91-81
Bnei Hasharon handed the second loss to Maccabi Tel-Aviv in the quarterfinal series. Shawn James (208-F/C-83, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Northeastern) scored 20 points, pulled down 8 rebounds and dished out 3 assists to lead Bnei Hasharon. Anthony Tucker (198-F-85, agency: Buck Andre, college: Texas) delivered 18 points for the home team. Andrew Wisniewski (191-G-81, college: Centenary) and Chuck Eidson (201-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina) notched 17 points apiece in the loss.

Macc.Rishon LZ - Hap.Jerusalem 56-62
Jerusalem entered the semifinal stage after they recorded the third win in the series against Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion. Dijon Thompson (201-G/F-83, college: UCLA) scored 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead the effort. Pooh Jeter (179-G-83, agency: Buck Andre, college: Portland) contributed 13 points in the winning case. Aaron McGhee (202-F-79, college: Oklahoma) replied with 15 points and 10 rebounds for Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion.

Netanya - Maccabi Haifa 75-71
Netanya advanced into the Final Four with a home win over Maccabi Haifa. Tony Washam (198-F/G-82, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: St.Vincent) stepped up with 27 points and 9 rebounds to pace the hosts. Marco Killingsworth added 15 points and 9 rebounds for Netanya. Jason Rich (191-G-86) accounted for 20 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds in the losing effort.


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


Virtus Bologna bring in Zoran Erceg - by Eurobasket News
Virtus Bologna added more size to their frontcourt. They inked a deal with Zoran Erceg. The 25-year-old Serbian centre will spend the reminder of the season in Bologna on loan from Olympiakos. Zoran Erceg joined Olympiakos back in 2008/09 season. He tallied 5.0 points and 2.2 boards per Euroleague game. This season the Pireus team sent the centre to Marousi. In December Zoran Erceg joined Panionios. He tallied 14.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in A1. Zoran Erceg also played for the Serbian NT at the 2007 EuroBasket and during the Qualification Round to the 2009 EuroBasket.


Lega2 Round: 3 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Snaidero UD - Fastweb CM 59-66
Fastweb Casale surged ahead in the quarterfinal series as they nipped Snaidero in Udine. Jarrius Jackson (188-G-85, college: Texas Tech) scored 21 points to lead Casale. Tommaso Fantoni (203-F-85, agency: Players Group) netted 12 points in the winning effort. Luigi Dordei (202-F-81) responded with 16 points for Snaidero Udine.

Scafati Basket - Prima Veroli 65-73
Afik Nissim (180-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 19 points to pace Prima Veroli past Scafati Basket. Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) added 14 points and 15 rebounds for the visitors as they swept the series. Phil Goss (186-G-83, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Drexel) responded with 16 points, 5 boards and 5 assists for Scafati Basket.

Carmatic PT - Banco Sard. 85-69
Carmatic Pistoia narrowed the deficit in the series against Banco di Sardegna. Tamar Slay (204-F-80, college: Marshall) scored 19 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and distributed 4 assists to lead Pistoia to the opening win in the series. Tony Skinn (185-G-83, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: George Mason) added 13 points for the winners. Jason Rowe (178-G-78, college: Loyola (MD)) answered with 23 points for Sassari.


Stats Leaders - Lega2
Points Per Game
 K.C. RIVERS
  Benetton TV
  (196-G/F-87)
  Avg: 24.5
 1. Rivers, A.B. Latina24.5 
 2. Whiting, Aget IM22.3 
 3. Kemp, Banco Sard.20.8 
 4. Forte, Edimes PV20.8 
 5. Goss, Scafati .20.7 
 6. Young, Umana Reyer19.4 
 7. Slay, Carmatic PT19.0 
 8. Crispin, Enel B.18.9 
 9. Adams, Fileni Jesi18.5 
 10. Thomas, Enel Brindisi18.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ndudi EBI
  Edilizia
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 13.6
 1. Ebi, Edilizia13.6 
 2. Boykin, Edimes PV10.2 
 3. Waleskowski, Fileni J.9.7 
 4. Smith, A.B. Latina9.0 
 5. Ezugwu, Aget IM8.4 
 6. Chiacig, Scafati .8.3 
 7. Hines, Prima Veroli8.1 
 8. Brkic, Snaidero UD7.7 
 9. Missere, A.B. L.7.5 
 10. Thomas, Enel Brindisi7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Marcus HATTEN
  UCC Casalpus.
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Hatten, UCC C.4.8 
 2. Rowe, Banco Sard.4.5 
 3. Forte, Edimes PV4.2 
 4. Nissim, Prima Veroli4.2 
 5. Levin, Fastweb CM3.9 
 6. Young, Edimes PV3.4 
 7. Brown, Snaidero UD3.3 
 8. Bertolazzi, Miro R.3.1 
 9. Garris, Umana R.3.1 
 10. Whiting, Aget IM3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Joseph FORTE
  Edimes PV
  (193-G-81)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Forte, Edimes PV3.8 
 2. Hines, Prima Veroli3.5 
 3. Hatten, UCC C.3.5 
 4. Goss, Scafati .3.3 
 5. Ebi, Edilizia3.2 
 6. Young, Umana Reyer3.1 
 7. Young, Edimes PV2.9 
 8. Boyette, Miro R.2.8 
 9. Whiting, Aget IM2.6 
 10. Williams, Miro R.2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Troy OSTLER
  UCC Casalpus.
  (209-F-78)
  Avg: 2
 1. Ostler, UCC C.2.0 
 2. Di Giuliomar., Umana R.1.7 
 3. Ebi, Edilizia1.7 
 4. Hines, Prima Veroli1.4 
 5. Bryan, Enel Brindisi1.1 
 6. Valenti, UCC C.1.1 
 7. Melli, Trenkwalder1.0 
 8. Boykin, Fileni Jesi1.0 
 9. Hall, Fastweb CM0.9 
 10. Boykin, Edimes PV0.9 


*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


ASU snatches Big Olu - by Mohammed Malas
Jo-Basket.com, Amman - In the second deal in 8 days, ASU Spots Club have finally succeeded to grab a high level player to the roster of the 21st Asian Clubs Championship which will be held in Qatar from the 22nd till the 30th of May.

Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) was the best choice of the coaching staff of the Jordanian champions as the Nigirian center will arrive tomorrow to Amman to start trainings with his new teammates.

Oyedeji is very athletic. Can run, jump and get physical with the best. Has an NBA body. Has matured into a dominating force as shown in all competitions he played in. Was Considered a potential first round NBA draft choice. Has won every slam dunk contest he has entered. Speaks five different foreign languages, He played professional basketball in the NBA, Russia, Germany, Greece, Kuwait, Peurto Rico, South Korea and China for several years.

ASU was drawn in Group B of the big Asian event with Al Jalaa (Syria), An Nasr (UAE), Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia) and Al Riyadi (Lebanon).

*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN   


Vladislav Konovalov left Tobol - by Eurobasket News
Vladislav Konovalov left Tobol and heads back to Russia. The coach did his best bringing Tobol to the Finals of the league. he was Kazakhstan Cup Finalist in 2009 and 2010 and became Kazakhstan League Regular Season Runner-Up in 2010. Before that since year 2006 he worked as Coach Assistant in CSK VVS Samara (A Superleague). He had experience also abroad as his team reached FIBA EuroCup Quarterfinals in 2008.


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


Al Kuwait wins Group A - by Eurobasket News
Al Kuwait wins Group A of the Arab Club Championships. In the last game of the Second Stage the team overcame Moutahed from Lebanon 90:87 as both teams advanced to the Semifinals. Kuwait started with 26-16 in the first period and lost the second 19-21. Moutahed started to play better after the break and after 30-20 in the third period grabbed the lead entering the last stanza. Al Kuwait however won the finish period and remained hot for the gold.
Tonight Al Kuwait will meet Al Riyadi from Lebanon in the first Semifinal at 15.00. Later today El Ettehad El Sakandary from Egypt will pay against Moutahed from Lebanon.

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


Ventspils earn LBL Bronze - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils celebrated LBL Bronze medals. They completed the sweep against Valmiera yesterday in the consolation final series. Mareks Jurevicus (198-G/F-85) scored 17 points to lead well-balanced Ventspils to a 108:52 success in the decider. Ventspils did not give a single chance for Valmiera. The hosts dominated right from the tip off. They built a 21:13 lead ten minutes into the game. The second term turned into a one-way traffic. Ventspils exploded with impressive 38 points in ten minutes establishing an unassailable 38-point lead at halftime. Valmiera was not able to turn the tables in the second part of the clash. The hosts boosted the lead to as many as 46 points before the final term and did not look back en route to the victory.
Ernests Kalve (200-F-87) and Mateo Kedzo (207-F/C-84) knocked down 15 points apiece for Ventspils. Arturs Strelnieks (196-G/F-85) provided 11 points in the win. Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) delivered 18 points and 14 rebounds for Valmiera. Daviin Davis (193-F-85, college: Weber St.) had 10 points in the losing effort.


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


Al Kuwait wins Group A - by Eurobasket News
Al Kuwait wins Group A of the Arab Club Championships. In the last game of the Second Stage the team overcame Moutahed from Lebanon 90:87 as both teams advanced to the Semifinals. Kuwait started with 26-16 in the first period and lost the second 19-21. Moutahed started to play better after the break and after 30-20 in the third period grabbed the lead entering the last stanza. Al Kuwait however won the finish period and remained hot for the gold.
Tonight Al Kuwait will meet Al Riyadi from Lebanon in the first Semifinal at 15.00. Later today El Ettehad El Sakandary from Egypt will pay against Moutahed from Lebanon.

Al Riyadi advanced to the Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Al Riyadi advanced to the Semifinals of the Arab Club Championships as they beat Al Sharja from United Arab Emirates. The team from Lebanon looked better throughout the game and reached 100:72 win. They started with 28-14 in the opening quarter, however lost the second stanza 18-28. Another 25-16 brought them a better lead that they held until the end. Nate Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) was named the MVP of the game.
Tonight Al Kuwait will meet Al Riyadi in the first Semifinal at 15.00. Later today El Ettehad El Sakandary from Egypt will pay against Moutahed from Lebanon.

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


CIBACOPA 2010 PLAYOFFS - by Alejandro Martinez
After a 34 game regular season, CIBACOPA is set to start its playoffs this upcoming Saturday May 16th. The matchups are as follows: (1) Culiacan vs. (8) Los Mochis. Although many 'experts' may be ready to predict a sweep, keep in mind that the teams split their season series. (2) Hermosillo vs. (7) Guasave: This is an interesting series, with Hermosillo coming into the playoffs with a CIBACOPA record 16 wins in a row. Guasave, normally a top tier team in this league, struggled to make the playoffs and will be looking to vindicate themselves in the playoffs. (3) Cananea vs. (6) Guaymas: The defending Champions will open the playoffs at home and will be hosting an Ostionero team who invested a lot of money to bring quality players but had an up and down regular season. The last matchup is (4) Mazatlan vs. (5) Nogales: This on paper should be the closest matchup. Nogales is back in the playoffs after finishing last in the 2009 season but has a tough challenge with a Mazatlan team that is loaded with talent. Additionally, this is the series where the team will have to travel the fartest. It should be a very interesting and close 2010 playoffs.

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


Al Ittihad Alexandria proves the ambitions for the top places - by Eurobasket News
Al Ittihad Alexandria proves the ambitions for the top places in Arab Club Championships. In the last game of the Second Stage the team overcame Ittihad Tanger from Morocco 107:82. They opened the game with 22-20 and had massive 28-19 second period. The hosts held the score for good and won the third straight game in the group to win it with 3-0 record.
Tonight Al Kuwait will meet Al Riyadi in the first Semifinal at 15.00. Later today Al Ittihad Alexandria will pay against Moutahed from Lebanon.

*****************************************************
  NABL   


NABL ALL STAR SELECTIONS RELEASED - by Joe Becerra
The NABL has released the selected participants for the all star weekend showcase. The Three point contest, Slam dunk contest and the Oregon vs Washington
All Star game will begin at 7pm at Concordia University in Portland, Oregon.

Washington All Stars- Head Coach- Don Sims- Seattle Mountaineers


Chris Weakley - Snohomish County Explosion
Shawn Wolter - Snohomish County Explosion
Chris Ferguson - Snohomish County Explosion
Jason Hicks - Snohomish County Explosion
Chris Keller - Seattle Mountaineers
Rashad Powell - Seattle Mountaineers
Jamaal Miller - Seattle Mountaineers
Brian Spielman - Seattle Mountaineers
Nate Jackson - Tacoma Thunder
Jason Stromvall - Tacoma Thunder
Brandon Larrieu - Tacoma Thunder

Slam Dunk Contest
Shawn Wolter - Snohomish County Explosion
Jalonta Martin - Portland Showtime
Brandon Larrieu - Tacoma Thunder
Rashad Powell - Seattle Mountaneers
Solo Nesbitt - Tualatin Rainmakers
Mike Tabb - Salem Stampede

Three Point Contest
Anthony Lackey - Portland Showtime
Chris Ferguson - Snohomish County Explosion
Chris Weakley - Snohomish County Explosion
Nate Jackson - Tacoma Thunder
Jason Stromvall - Tacoma Thunder
Jeff Dunn - Salem Stampede
Jeremiah Dominguez - Salem Stampede
Chris Keller - Seattle Mountaineers
Jamaal Miller - Seattle Mountaineers
Jaxin Skyward - Tualatin Rainmakers
Cody Tesoro - Tualatin Rainmakers

Oregon All Stars - Head Coach - Paul Kelly- Portland Showtime

Chris Hoyt -Tualatin Rainmakers
Doug Lamb - Tualatin Rainmakers
Villi Dorsainvil- Tualatin Rainmakers
Terrance TwoTwo- Portland Showtime
Mac Hopson - Portland Showtime
Dominic Waters - Portland Showtime
Seth Tarver - Portland Showtime
Jeremiah Dominguez - Salem Stampede
Mike Tabb - Salem Stampede
Cameron Mitchell - Salem Stampede
Jeff Dunn - Salem Stampede
Antone Jarrell - Salem Stampede


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 29.8
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.29.8 
 2. James, Clevelan.29.6 
 3. Anthony, Denver N.28.4 
 4. Wade, Miami Heat27.0 
 5. Bryant, LA Lakers27.0 
 6. Ellis, Golde S.25.5 
 7. Nowitzki, Dallas M.25.1 
 8. Granger, Indiana P.24.1 
 9. Bosh, Toronto R.24.0 
 10. Stoudemire, Phoeni.22.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 13
 1. Howard, Orlando M.13.0 
 2. Camby, LA Clippers12.2 
 3. Randolph, Memph.11.7 
 4. Lee, New York K.11.7 
 5. Gasol, LA Lakers11.5 
 6. Boozer, Utah Jazz11.4 
 7. Noah, Chicago B.11.2 
 8. Love, Minnesota T.11.0 
 9. Bosh, Toronto R.10.8 
 10. Haywood, Washingt.10.3 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.8 
 2. Paul, N.Orleans H.10.7 
 3. Williams, Utah Jazz10.5 
 4. Rondo, Boston C.10.0 
 5. Kidd, Dallas M.8.9 
 6. James, Clevelan.8.4 
 7. Davis, LA Clippers8.0 
 8. Westbrook, Oklah..7.8 
 9. Harris, New J.6.6 
 10. Wade, Miami Heat6.5 
Steals Per Game
 Monta ELLIS
  Golde State W.
  (192-G-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ellis, Golde S.2.3 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.2.3 
 3. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.1 
 4. Curry, Golde S.1.9 
 5. Curry, Golde S.1.9 
 6. Ariza, Houston R.1.8 
 7. Kidd, Dallas M.1.8 
 8. Wade, Miami Heat1.8 
 9. Iguodala, Philadel.1.7 
 10. Davis, LA Clippers1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Howard, Orlando M.2.9 
 2. Bogut, Milwauke.2.5 
 3. Haywood, Washingt.2.1 
 4. Haywood, Dallas M.2.0 
 5. Smith, Atlanta H.2.0 
 6. Camby, LA Clippers2.0 
 7. McGee, Washingt.1.8 
 8. Dalembert, Philad.1.8 
 9. Andersen, Denver N.1.8 
 10. Perkins, Boston C.1.8 


Boston Celtics eliminate Cleveland Cavaliers, 94-85 in Game Six - by Eurobasket News
The Boston Celtics are moving to the Eastern Conference finals for the second time in three years. LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) is headed to the off-season again without a championship and has possibly played his last game as a member of the Cavaliers.

Kevin Garnett (6'10''-F-76, agency: Pro Management Agency) had 22 points and 12 rebounds as the Celtics beat Cleveland, 94-85, in Game 6 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

Rajon Rondo (6'1''-G-86, college: Kentucky) contributed 21 points, 12 assists and five steals for Boston, which gained the 4-2 series victory by winning the final three games.

James was limited to 3-of-14 shooting in Tuesday night's 120-88 loss. Two nights later, he turned the ball over nine times, but still finished with a triple-double of 27 points, 19 rebounds and 10 assists.

The Akron native, the top overall pick by the Cavs in 2003 and the two-time reigning NBA MVP, is due to hit the free agent market on July 1 along with other superstars such as Miami's Dwyane Wade, Toronto's Chris Bosh and Atlanta's Joe Johnson. James has given no indication if he'll stay in his home state or head to another team. The Boston fans shouted 'New York Knicks!' in the closing minutes, signifying a possible landing spot for James next season.

Slowed by an injury to his right elbow, James shot 11-of-35 over the final two games. The miscues by the Cavs also hurt, as they had 24 turnovers in Thursday's game, leading to 27 Boston points.

Paul Pierce (6'7''-F-77, college: Kansas) scored 11 of his 13 points in the second half for the 2008 NBA champions, who will face Orlando in the East finals. The second-seeded Magic will have home-court advantage against Boston, which came into the playoffs seeded fourth. The Magic, who beat Boston in seven games in the conference semifinals last year, have won 14 straight games, including sweeps of Charlotte and Atlanta in the playoffs.

Maurice Williams (6'1''-G-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Alabama) tallied 22 points for the top-seeded Cavaliers, who couldn't reach the conference finals for the second straight year. They lost in six games to Orlando in 2009.

It also means another year of title disappointment for Cleveland, a city that hasn't won a major sports championship since 1964, when the Browns captured the NFL crown. It's the longest drought for any city with at least three majors sports franchises. The Cavs made it to the 2007 NBA Finals before being swept by San Antonio.

Courtesy of www.sbnation.com


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


Standings Men
NBL Standings
 1. Waikato 11-1 
 2. Wellington 9-3 
 3. Nelson 8-3 
 4. Harbour Heat 8-4 
 5. Bay Hawks 7-6 
 6. Cougars 6-9 
 7. Southland Sharks 5-7 
 8. Taranaki 4-6 
 9. Manawatu 0-9 
 10. Otago 0-10 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Eric DEVENDORF
  Wellington
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 24.3
 1. Devendorf, Waikato24.3 
 2. Tisby, Otago23.5 
 3. Webster, Harbour .22.9 
 4. Rose, Southland S.22.6 
 5. Amaya, Otago22.5 
 6. Pace, Bay Hawks21.8 
 7. Leasure, Taranaki21.2 
 8. Jones, Nelson21.2 
 9. Abercrombie, Waika.20.8 
 10. Hudson, Wellington20.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Waikato
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Pledger, Waikato12.3 
 2. Tisby, Otago10.3 
 3. Boucher, Harbour .10.1 
 4. Vukona, Nelson9.9 
 5. Terrell, Bay Hawks9.9 
 6. Rickert, Harbour .9.6 
 7. Abercrombie, Waika.8.4 
 8. Nowell, Taranaki8.0 
 9. Rougeau, Southlan.7.7 
 10. Frank, Wellington7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Lindsay TAIT
  Wellington
  (194-G-82)
  Avg: 6
 1. Tait, Wellington6.0 
 2. Boucher, Harbour .5.5 
 3. Kench, Cougars4.3 
 4. Devendorf, Waikato4.1 
 5. Jones, Nelson3.9 
 6. Pace, Bay Hawks3.5 
 7. Amaya, Otago3.4 
 8. Daly, Cougars3.4 
 9. Davey, Taranaki3.1 
 10. Vukona, Nelson3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Rene ROUGEAU
  Southland S.
  (198-G-86)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Rougeau, Southlan.3.5 
 2. Webster, Harbour .3.3 
 3. Devendorf, Waikato2.7 
 4. Te Huna, Manawatu2.6 
 5. Rose, Southland S.2.6 
 6. Kench, Cougars2.3 
 7. Boucher, Harbour .2.3 
 8. Leasure, Taranaki2.1 
 9. Jones, Nelson2.0 
 10. Tait, Wellington1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Waikato
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Pledger, Waikato2.5 
 2. Harrison, Nelson1.9 
 3. Abercrombie, Waika.1.9 
 4. Terrell, Bay Hawks1.6 
 5. Rougeau, Southlan.1.3 
 6. Vukona, Nelson1.3 
 7. Behrendorff, Couga.1.2 
 8. Johnson, Taranaki1.1 
 9. Rickert, Harbour .1.1 
 10. Trueman, Taranaki1.0 


*****************************************************
  NORWAY   


Norway U16 starts without victories - by Eurobasket News
Norway U16 starts without victories at the Nordic Cup that just started between five teams. The Swedish team won the opener over the team from Norway 69:57. Sweden won the opening tip 16-12, however Norway responded with 26-19 in the second period. The second half belonged to the winners that won the third and the last quarters. Papy Ndiaye (187-G-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Niklas Larsson (195-F-94) netted 13. Simon Ezra (193-F-94) scored 12 and Nicholas Spires followed them with 9. Espen Fjrestad responded with 15 points in the losing effort. Marko Lepovic collected 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Tor Erlend Bognaes added 11.
On May 14th Denmark outscored Norway 69:64. The latter took minimum 17-16 lead after the first period and was too good in the second frame after 26-12 win. It seemed that the intrigue was over, however Denmark was too far to give up. They produced 21-8 in the third quarter and won the game after 20-13 in the final stanza. Peter Moller stepped up with 25 points and 8 rebounds, while Aleksander Also Dokkedal and Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen netted 8 each. Espen Fjaerestad shined with 35 points in the losing effort.

Norway U18 losses three in a row - by Eurobasket News
Norway U18 losses three in a row at the International Tournament in Solnahallen.
Sweden U18 rolled over Norway U18 69:49 on May 12th. Sweden opened the game with 25-16 and then won the second quarter 16-10. In the second half the Swedish side looked also better and celebrated both victories in the periods. Marcus Eriksson top-scored for the winners with 17 points, whilst Viktor Gaddefors (199-F-92) netted 13. Bouna Ndiaye and Aly Hudgins finished the night with 10 points in the losing case.
Finland edged Norway 83:60 on May 13th. Finland grabbed 21-11 in the opening period and added 23-11 in the second period. In the third frame Norway managed to wake up and responded with 24-16. Only due to 23-14 in the last quarter Finland celebrated the total success. Miikka Marttinen (195-F-92) and Markus Molenius (202-F/C-92) stepped up with 11 points each for the winners. Steinar Rakneberg ended up with 12 points in the losing effort.
Norway lost to Iceland 65:76 on May 14th. It was a successful start for Norway that took 15-14 after the opening quarter. Iceland however grabbed the advantage after 24-19 in the second frame. They also won the third period 23-17 and finished with 15-14 in the last stanza. Haukur Helgi Palsson paced all the winners with 19 points, while Oddur Olafsson (183-G-92) followed him with 14. Bouna Ndiaye produced 17 points for Norway.


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


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


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


PBA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Anthony JOHNSON
  Santa Lucia
  (197-G/F-79)
  Avg: 30.6
 1. Johnson, Santa L.30.6 
 2. Larry, Air2129.3 
 3. Monroe, Barako28.4 
 4. Simpson, Alaska28.4 
 5. Penny, Coca-Cola26.2 
 6. Wade, Derby Ace L.25.2 
 7. Storey, Ginebra24.0 
 8. Ambres, Ginebra22.0 
 9. David, Coca-Cola20.3 
 10. de Ocampo, Talk N.20.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mildon AMBRES
  Ginebra
  (198-F/G-84)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Ambres, Ginebra17.7 
 2. Storey, Ginebra17.6 
 3. Freeman, San M.16.9 
 4. Simpson, Alaska16.9 
 5. Brown, Derby A.15.0 
 6. Young, Air2114.3 
 7. Lewis, Rain or Shine14.3 
 8. Johnson, Santa L.14.3 
 9. Penny, Coca-Cola13.8 
 10. Larry, Air2113.3 
Assists Per Game
 Jimmy ALAPAG
  Talk N Text
  (178-G-77)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Alapag, Talk N Text7.4 
 2. Helterbrand, Gineb.6.0 
 3. Cabagnot, San M.6.0 
 4. Reyes, Santa Lucia4.6 
 5. Mercado, Rain o.4.5 
 6. Miller, Alaska4.5 
 7. Norwood, Rain o.4.4 
 8. Tenorio, Alaska4.1 
 9. Cardona, Talk N.3.9 
 10. Monroe, Barako3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Cyrus BAGUIO
  Alaska
  (188-G-80)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Baguio, Alaska2.3 
 2. Larry, Air212.3 
 3. Daniels, Talk N.2.0 
 4. Simpson, Alaska1.9 
 5. Wade, Derby Ace L.1.8 
 6. Williams, Santa Lucia1.7 
 7. Cortez, Air211.6 
 8. Lanete, Coca-Cola1.6 
 9. Hatfield, Ginebra1.4 
 10. Reyes, Santa Lucia1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Shawn DANIELS
  Talk N Text
  (200-C-79)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Daniels, Talk N.3.1 
 2. Penny, Coca-Cola2.3 
 3. Johnson, Santa L.1.7 
 4. Wade, Derby Ace L.1.6 
 5. Monroe, Barako1.3 
 6. Simpson, Alaska1.3 
 7. Reyes, Barako1.2 
 8. Devance, Alaska1.1 
 9. Ambres, Ginebra1.0 
 10. Freeman, San M.1.0 


*****************************************************
  POLAND   


Standings - 2 Liga
2Liga Standings
Group A
 1. Astoria 27-3 
 2. Norgips 24-6 
 3. SKK Siedlce 23-7 
 4. Tur B.Podl. 22-8 
 5. Nowy Dwor Gd. 20-10 
 6. Zuraw Gn. 20-10 
 7. MMKS SIDEn 19-11 
 8. Harmattan 17-13 
 9. Basket Kw. 15-15 
 10. Assec.Prokom 3 12-18 
 11. Korsarz 11-19 
 12. Unibet Legia 9-21 
 13. Zyrardowianka 9-21 
 14. AZS Olsztyn 8-22 
 15. OSSM W-wa 3-27 
 16. OSSM Sopot 1-29 
Group B
 1. AZS Szczecin 24-2 
 2. Open Basket 22-4 
 3. AZS PP Poznan 20-6 
 4. Ksiezak 16-10 
 5. AZS Kutno 16-10 
 6. MKS Skiern. 14-12 
 7. Stal Ostrow 13-13 
 8. Pogon Prudnik 13-13 
 9. Nysa Klodzko 13-13 
 10. AZS PO Opole 12-14 
 11. Obiekty Wrocl. 9-17 
 12. Slask Wroclaw 7-19 
 13. OSSM Wroclaw 3-23 
 14. KKS Siechnice 0-26 
Group C
 1. Rosasport 27-1 
 2. Unia Tarnow 23-5 
 3. UMKS Kielce 21-7 
 4. AZS PR Radom 19-9 
 5. MCKiS Jaw. 16-12 
 6. Cracovia 16-12 
 7. AZS Pol.Cz-wa 16-12 
 8. Pogon Ruda Sl. 15-13 
 9. Alba 12-16 
 10. MKS Limanowa 12-16 
 11. Komtek 11-17 
 12. Mickiewicz 7-21 
 13. Wisla Krakow 7-21 
 14. Staco Niepol. 7-21 
 15. OSSM S.Wola 1-27 


DBE Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Michael WRIGHT
  PGE Turow
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 21
 1. Wright, PGE Turow21.0 
 2. Scott, ISS Sportino20.0 
 3. Mays, Znicz19.3 
 4. Day, ISS Sportino19.2 
 5. Chappell, Znicz18.3 
 6. Williamson, Znicz17.9 
 7. Okafor, Polpharma17.8 
 8. Miller, Polonia Azbud17.6 
 9. Logan, Assec.Pr.17.3 
 10. Swanson, AZS K.17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Harris, SKK K.11.3 
 2. Chappell, Znicz8.2 
 3. Kuzminskas, Trefl S.8.2 
 4. Daniels, Energa C.8.1 
 5. Ibrahim, ISS S.7.9 
 6. Kesicki, ISS S.7.8 
 7. NaNa, Polonia Azbud7.6 
 8. Kinnard, Trefl S.7.5 
 9. Okafor, Polpharma7.2 
 10. Wallace, PGE Turow7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Szubarga, Anwil6.8 
 2. Loyd, Stal SW5.9 
 3. Swanson, AZS K.5.1 
 4. Smith, SKK Kotwica5.1 
 5. Brazelton, Energa C.4.8 
 6. Logan, Assec.Pr.4.5 
 7. Snieg, Polonia 20114.4 
 8. Ewing, Assec.Pr.4.1 
 9. Milicic, AZS K.4.1 
 10. Hughes, Polonia .4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremy CHAPPELL
  Znicz
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Chappell, Znicz2.9 
 2. Day, ISS Sportino2.4 
 3. Logan, Assec.Pr.2.2 
 4. Godbold, Stal SW2.1 
 5. Mays, Znicz2.0 
 6. Majewski, Polph.2.0 
 7. Swanson, AZS K.1.9 
 8. Angley, Polpharma1.9 
 9. Hawkins, Trefl S.1.8 
 10. Bialek, PBG Basket1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Leszek KARWOWSKI
  Polonia 2011
  (209-F-75)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Karwowski, Polonia .1.6 
 2. Wallace, PGE Turow1.4 
 3. Harris, SKK K.1.4 
 4. Kesicki, ISS S.1.3 
 5. Misiewicz, Znicz1.1 
 6. Booker, Energa C.1.1 
 7. Lapeta, Assec.Pr.1.1 
 8. Kuzminskas, Trefl S.1.0 
 9. Wyka, Znicz1.0 
 10. Sullivan, Anwil0.8 


PLK Round: 3 (Semi-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Polpharma - Anwil 99-89
Patrick Okafor (203-F-79, college: Houston) scored 32 points and pulled down 9 rebounds as Polpharma avoided elimination edging Anwil at home court. Lukasz Majewski (199-F-82) and Tony Weeden (186-G-83, college: Chicago St.) delivered 22 and 20 points respectively in the victory. Nikola Jovanovic (204-C-81, agency: BeoExcell) accounted for 21 points and 13 boards for Anwil. Brett Winkelman (198-F-86, college: N.Dakota St.) netted 18 points in the loss.

Trefl Sopot - Assec.Prokom 70-78
Asseco Prokom swept the series against Trefl Sopot. The Gdynia team claimed the third decisive win on the road today and became the first finalists. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) came up with 20 points to lead Prokom. Daniel Ewing (191-G-83, college: Duke) added 17 points in the winning case. Cliff Hawkins (186-G-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Kentucky) responded with 18 points for Trefl Sopot. Gintaras Kadziulis (193-G-80) finished with 12 points in the loss.


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


Stats Leaders - UZO Liga
Points Per Game
 Brandon DAGANS
  Ginasio
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 22.2
 1. Dagans, Ginasio22.2 
 2. Crutchfield, Sampa.21.8 
 3. Madison, Sampaense20.5 
 4. Nealy, VSC Guimar.18.7 
 5. Powers, Fisica18.4 
 6. Waller, Ovarense18.3 
 7. Ramos, Benfica18.3 
 8. Smith, AD Vagos17.9 
 9. Clark, Barreirense17.6 
 10. Webster, CAB17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Roderick NEALY
  VSC Guimar.
  (198-F-80)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Nealy, VSC Guimar.10.6 
 2. Lee, Ovarense9.7 
 3. Smith, AD Vagos9.6 
 4. Johnson, Fisica9.5 
 5. Johnson, Academica9.3 
 6. Wilson, Sampaense9.2 
 7. St.Robert, Illiabum9.0 
 8. Terrell, Porto F.8.5 
 9. Shaw, Illiabum8.1 
 10. Evans, Benfica7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Nuno MANARTE
  Ovarense
  (184-G-75)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Manarte, Ovarense6.2 
 2. Felix, Illiabum6.0 
 3. Reveles, AD Vagos5.1 
 4. Perdigao, AD Vagos4.6 
 5. Fernandes, CAB4.4 
 6. Miranda, Ovarense4.3 
 7. Mims, VSC Guimar.4.3 
 8. Simoes, Academica4.2 
 9. Nealy, VSC Guimar.3.6 
 10. Figueiredo, Porto F.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Jose COSTA
  Ginasio
  (187-G-73)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Costa, Ginasio6.4 
 2. Sing, Sampaense5.0 
 3. Pinto, Barreirense3.9 
 4. Crutchfield, Sampa.3.3 
 5. Madison, Sampaense3.2 
 6. Salvador, Fisica3.0 
 7. Dagans, Ginasio2.8 
 8. Silva, VSC Guimar.2.7 
 9. Felix, Illiabum2.6 
 10. Pedroso, CAB2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 John SMITH
  AD Vagos
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Smith, AD Vagos1.8 
 2. Lee, Ovarense1.3 
 3. DeWitz, Benfica1.3 
 4. Wilson, Sampaense1.2 
 5. Terrell, Porto F.1.2 
 6. Soderberg, CAB1.2 
 7. Grimes, Academica1.1 
 8. Stempin, Porto F.1.0 
 9. Voorhees, AD Vagos1.0 
 10. Austin, Ginasio1.0 


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


Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 21.8
 1. Dalmau, Bayamon21.8 
 2. Nailon, Quebradillas21.0 
 3. Ramos, Quebradillas20.6 
 4. Carmona, Mayaguez20.1 
 5. Hickerson, San G.20.1 
 6. Maye, Mayaguez19.8 
 7. Priutt, Isabela19.1 
 8. Mays, Humacao18.0 
 9. Redhage, Quebradillas17.7 
 10. Ayuso, Capitanes17.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn PRIUTT
  Isabela
  (208-C-85)
  Avg: 13.5
 1. Priutt, Isabela13.5 
 2. Ramos, Quebradillas11.9 
 3. Sweetney, Santurce11.8 
 4. Narvaez, Ponce10.2 
 5. Traylor, Bayamon9.5 
 6. Dyer, San German9.3 
 7. Austin, San German9.2 
 8. Aubry, Capitanes9.0 
 9. Reyes, Capitanes9.0 
 10. Mays, Humacao9.0 
Assists Per Game
 C.J. BRUTON
  Quebradillas
  (188-G-75)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Bruton, Quebradillas8.2 
 2. Dalmau, Bayamon6.0 
 3. Hatton, Ponce5.0 
 4. Rodriguez, Capit.4.8 
 5. Copeland, San G.4.7 
 6. Cruz, Ponce4.7 
 7. Rivera, Isabela4.6 
 8. Guzman, Guaynabo4.5 
 9. Redhage, Quebradillas4.4 
 10. Graham, Mayaguez4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Ali BERDIEL
  Humacao
  (198-G-83)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Berdiel, Humacao2.2 
 2. Carmona, Mayaguez1.9 
 3. Rivera, Isabela1.7 
 4. Dalmau, Bayamon1.7 
 5. Mays, Humacao1.5 
 6. Austin, San German1.5 
 7. Mojica, Bayamon1.5 
 8. Pickett, Capitanes1.5 
 9. Perez, Isabela1.5 
 10. Copeland, San G.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Michael SWEETNEY
  Santurce
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Sweetney, Santurce1.4 
 2. Priutt, Isabela1.2 
 3. Mays, Humacao1.2 
 4. Nieves, Santurce1.1 
 5. Perez, Isabela1.1 
 6. Reyes, Capitanes1.1 
 7. Nailon, Ponce1.1 
 8. Nailon, Quebradillas1.0 
 9. Traylor, Bayamon1.0 
 10. Berdiel, Humacao1.0 


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


Div.A Round: 1 (Finals) - by Eurobasket News
U.Mobitel.CN - Ploiesti 76-77
Adrian Blidaru fired a buzzer-beating three-pointer to propel Ploiesti past UMobitelco in the championship series opener. Arvydas Cepulis (195-G-79) knocked down 15 points to lead Ploiesti in the road win. Virgil Carutasu (204-C-76) added 12 points for the visitors. Kyndall Dykes (191-F-87, agency: Strategic Sports, college: New Orleans) responded with 22 points for UMobitelco. Milan Medvedj (183-G-79) and Stanley Thomson (208-C-82, college: Fairfield) had 11 points each in the loss.


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 O''Darien BASSETT
  Craiova
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Bassett, Craiova20.7 
 2. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.20.3 
 3. Pesic, Timisoara19.1 
 4. Peciukas, Mures18.7 
 5. Mandic, Oradea18.4 
 6. Bubanja, Brasov17.8 
 7. Mack, Steaua T.17.6 
 8. Santana, Municipal B.17.4 
 9. Smith, CSU Sibiu17.1 
 10. Levine, Gladiato.17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Trevor HARVEY
  Craiova
  (211-C-80)
  Avg: 10
 1. Harvey, Craiova10.0 
 2. Herndon, CSU Sibiu9.2 
 3. Masiulis, Mures8.9 
 4. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.8.7 
 5. Carutasu, Ploiesti8.6 
 6. Nicoara, Gaz Metan8.6 
 7. Paltinisanu, Timis.8.1 
 8. Roschnafsky, Gladia.7.9 
 9. Miskovic, CSU S.7.7 
 10. Mijajlovic, Munici.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jarrett HOWELL
  Gaz Metan
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Howell, Gaz Metan5.9 
 2. Cooley, Mures5.6 
 3. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN5.4 
 4. Dzambic, Timisoara5.0 
 5. Dawson, Gladiato.4.6 
 6. Fometescu, Dinamo B.4.4 
 7. Howard, Gladiato.4.4 
 8. Bassett, Craiova4.3 
 9. Mitchell, Oradea4.2 
 10. Helcioiu, Municipa.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 JuJuan COOLEY
  Mures
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Cooley, Mures2.4 
 2. Howell, Gaz Metan2.3 
 3. Johnson, CSU Sibiu2.3 
 4. Mitchell, Gaz Metan2.1 
 5. Maric, Oradea2.0 
 6. Seals, Otopeni1.9 
 7. Mandache, Otopeni1.9 
 8. Medvedj, U.Mobite.1.9 
 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. Lazar, Oradea1.8 
 3. Herndon, CSU Sibiu1.7 
 4. Dragusin, Pitesti1.6 
 5. Harvey, Craiova1.5 
 6. Thomson, U.Mobite.1.4 
 7. Dragovic, Craiova1.4 
 8. Wiggins, Steaua T.1.1 
 9. Bubanja, Brasov1.0 
 10. Pantelic, Steaua T.1.0 


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


A Superleague Round: 2 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Khimky - Spartak SP 83-59
Khimky rebounded in style as they thrashed Spartak in the second game of the series. Raul Lopez (182-G-80) stepped up for the hosts scoring 18 points and dishing out 6 assists. Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) provided 13 points and 6 caroms in the victory. James White (198-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) replied with 13 points for Spartak Saint Petersburg.

Dynamo M. - Lokomotiv K. 68-67
Dmitry Domani (198-G/F-74, college: St.Joseph's) scored two free throws late in regulation to propel Dynamo to the second straight win over Lokomotiv Kuban. Alexey Shved (196-G-88) scored 21 points to lead the hosts. Sergey Bykov (190-G-83) netted 16 points for the winners. Gerald Green (203-G/F-86, agency: Lanshire Group) responded with 17 points and 6 rebounds for Lokomotiv Kuban in the loss.

Unics - Triumph 80-74
Unics came from behind to knock down Triumph. The victory marked 2-0 lead for the Kazan team in the series. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) knocked down 25 points and pulled down 9 rebounds to lead the charge. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) added 18 points and 6 assists in the winning effort. Pavel Sergeev (187-G-87) responded with game-high 27 points for Triumph.

CSKA - Krasnie Krilya 62-47
CSKA earned the second straight win against Krasnie Krylia. Sasha Kaun (211-C-85) scored 13 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to lead the defending champions. Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) contributed 12 points in the winning effort. Ralph Biggs (199-F-76, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) answered with 15 points for the Samara team.


Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Sergey BYKOV
  Dynamo M.
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 20.5
 1. Bykov, Dynamo M.20.5 
 2. Capin, Lokomoti.20.4 
 3. Chalmers, Enisey19.0 
 4. Rush, Triumph18.7 
 5. Green, Lokomoti.15.9 
 6. Flores, Krasnie .15.2 
 7. Rakovic, Spartak SP15.2 
 8. Popovic, Unics14.7 
 9. Monya, Dynamo M.14.5 
 10. Kambala, Enisey14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor KHRYAPA
  CSKA
  (204-F/G-82)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Khryapa, CSKA8.7 
 2. Monya, Dynamo M.8.2 
 3. Trushkin, Krasni.7.1 
 4. Lampe, Unics6.9 
 5. Rakovic, Spartak SP6.4 
 6. Kambala, Enisey6.1 
 7. Javtokas, Khimky6.0 
 8. McCarty, Khimky5.9 
 9. Kaun, CSKA5.8 
 10. Antic, Lokomoti.5.5 
Assists Per Game
 Ernest BREMER
  Krasnie Krilya
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Bremer, Krasnie .5.7 
 2. Capin, Lokomoti.4.4 
 3. Khryapa, CSKA4.3 
 4. Bykov, Dynamo M.4.0 
 5. Rush, Triumph3.6 
 6. Fields, Spartak SP3.6 
 7. Popovic, Unics3.5 
 8. Khvostov, Dynamo M.3.4 
 9. Planinic, CSKA3.3 
 10. Vyaltsev, Triumph3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Sergey BYKOV
  Dynamo M.
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Bykov, Dynamo M.2.2 
 2. Khryapa, CSKA1.9 
 3. Rush, Triumph1.9 
 4. Lyday, Unics1.8 
 5. Surovtsev, Lokomoti.1.7 
 6. Bremer, Krasnie .1.7 
 7. Chalmers, Enisey1.6 
 8. McCarty, Khimky1.5 
 9. Monya, Dynamo M.1.5 
 10. Pashutin, Spart.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 James GIST
  Lokomotiv K.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Gist, Lokomotiv K.1.3 
 2. Mozgov, Khimky1.3 
 3. Monya, Dynamo M.1.3 
 4. Khryapa, CSKA1.2 
 5. Douthit, Krasnie .0.9 
 6. Savenkov, Lokomoti.0.9 
 7. Vasilyev, Dynamo M.0.8 
 8. Kaun, CSKA0.8 
 9. Javtokas, Khimky0.7 
 10. Trushkin, Krasni.0.6 


*****************************************************
  SAINT KITTS   


HITTERS AND GHAUT BUCKS STILL WINLESS WHILE GHETTO ROOTS AND COTTON GROUND REMAIN UNDEFEATED - by StKitts Basketball
HITTERS AND GHAUT BUCKS STILL WINLESS WHILE GHETTO ROOTS AND COTTON GROUND REMAIN UNDEFEATED

Basseterre, St.Kitts (St.Kitts Sports News):-The Lime SKABA Premeir division is beginning to shape up as the division just completed week 4. Defending Champions the Horsfords Ghetto Roots seem once again the team to beat as they recorded their 3rd victory in as many games with another comfortable victory over the Cayon Lions.

Cayon was totally out-played by the Ghetto Roots who had an extremely balanced attack as former National Junior players Halstead Big Ticket Isles and Ruel Craigy Nero made their return to the teams line-up after prolonged absences due to injury. Isles was impressive in his return seemingly not losing a step as he scorched the Cayon front court for an exciting 13 pts in the post. Isles was part of a very balanced Ghetto Roots attack which saw 4 players in double figures. SKABA MVP Rymal Bally Browne was scintillating as he cruised to a 20 pt 5 rebs night. Ghetto Roots led 41-23 at the half. The 2nd half was more of the same as the Ghetto Roots scored almost at will. THE FINAL SCOre saw Ghetto Roots with an impressive 78-61 victory. Supporting Isles and Browne was Levi Black Mamba Fyfeild who had 14 pts 2 rebs and Carlos Mucho Caliente Monzac with 10 pts and 7 rebs. Cayon was led by Dave Zenga Pondt with 18 pts 2 rebs and Leon Fresh Henry who had 10 pts and 7 rebs. The victory improved Ghetto Roots record to 3-0 for the year and 5-0 dating back to last year final

In other match-ups the Joseph Parry Cotton Ground Rebels defeated former Champions the Hard Wine St.Pauls Tuff Knots 75-66. This victory came after the Rebels had an impressive victory over multi-time Champions Rams Hitters whom they defeated 79-78 in week 1 and the Ghaut Bucs in week 3. The rebels and the defending champs Ghetto Roots are the only undefeated teams in the Premier division. In week 2 the Hitters suffered another defeat as they lost to the St.Pauls Tuff Knots. Trevor Marty Huggins had another exceptional night but his efforts was not enough to save Hitters 2nd straight defeat for the season. Hitters has now lost 4 straight SKABA games dating back to the 2009 finals where they lost their last 2 games in the playoffs when they were swept by the Ghetto Roots. According to Basketball pundits this might be the first time in Hitters history that the team has lost 4 straight SKABA games. The team was also down 30 pts against the visiting ABDF Warriors before the games were called off due to rain on the SKABA opening night. James Barman Hanley Coach of Hitters has indicated that his team is in the process of re-building but remains confident of his teams resilience and expects another finals berth .

Fig Tree handed Ghaut Bucks their 3rd straight loss with a 95-84 victory over the recently promoted team. Bucks joins Cayon and Hitters as the only winless teams in the Premeir Division. St.Pauls Tuff Knots and the Shawn K. Richards Chappurtin have both split their opening games.

Week 5 game of the week will be on Sunday when multi-time champions Hitters play the former champions Fig Tree Dirt Revellers. Hitters will be trying to avoid a 3rd straight loss for the season while Fig Tree would be looking to get their 2nd win.

Upcoming games for week 5 in the Premeir Division:






HITTERS AND GHAUT BUCKS STILL WINLESS WHILE GHETTO ROOTS AND COTTON GROUND REMAIN UNDEFEATED - by StKitts Basketball

HITTERS AND GHAUT BUCKS STILL WINLESS WHILE GHETTO ROOTS AND COTTON GROUND REMAIN UNDEFEATED

Basseterre, St.Kitts (St.Kitts Sports News):-The Lime SKABA Premeir division is beginning to shape up as the division just completed week 4. Defending Champions the Horsfords Ghetto Roots seem once again the team to beat as they recorded their 3rd victory in as many games with another comfortable victory over the Cayon Lions.

Cayon was totally out-played by the Ghetto Roots who had an extremely balanced attack as former National Junior players Halstead Big Ticket Isles and Ruel Craigy Nero made their return to the teams line-up after prolonged absences due to injury. Isles was impressive in his return seemingly not losing a step as he scorched the Cayon front court for an exciting 13 pts in the post. Isles was part of a very balanced Ghetto Roots attack which saw 4 players in double figures. SKABA MVP Rymal Bally Browne was scintillating as he cruised to a 20 pt 5 rebs night. Ghetto Roots led 41-23 at the half. The 2nd half was more of the same as the Ghetto Roots scored almost at will. THE FINAL SCOre saw Ghetto Roots with an impressive 78-61 victory. Supporting Isles and Browne was Levi Black Mamba Fyfeild who had 14 pts 2 rebs and Carlos Mucho Caliente Monzac with 10 pts and 7 rebs. Cayon was led by Dave Zenga Pondt with 18 pts 2 rebs and Leon Fresh Henry who had 10 pts and 7 rebs. The victory improved Ghetto Roots record to 3-0 for the year and 5-0 dating back to last year final

In other match-ups the Joseph Parry Cotton Ground Rebels defeated former Champions the Hard Wine St.Pauls Tuff Knots 75-66. This victory came after the Rebels had an impressive victory over multi-time Champions Rams Hitters whom they defeated 79-78 in week 1 and the Ghaut Bucs in week 3. The rebels and the defending champs Ghetto Roots are the only undefeated teams in the Premier division. In week 2 the Hitters suffered another defeat as they lost to the St.Pauls Tuff Knots. Trevor Marty Huggins had another exceptional night but his efforts was not enough to save Hitters 2nd straight defeat for the season. Hitters has now lost 4 straight SKABA games dating back to the 2009 finals where they lost their last 2 games in the playoffs when they were swept by the Ghetto Roots. According to Basketball pundits this might be the first time in Hitters history that the team has lost 4 straight SKABA games. The team was also down 30 pts against the visiting ABDF Warriors before the games were called off due to rain on the SKABA opening night. James Barman Hanley Coach of Hitters has indicated that his team is in the process of re-building but remains confident of his teams resilience and expects another finals berth .

Fig Tree handed Ghaut Bucks their 3rd straight loss with a 95-84 victory over the recently promoted team. Bucks joins Cayon and Hitters as the only winless teams in the Premeir Division. St.Pauls Tuff Knots and the Shawn K. Richards Chappurtin have both split their opening games.

Week 5 game of the week will be on Sunday when multi-time champions Hitters play the former champions Fig Tree Dirt Revellers. Hitters will be trying to avoid a 3rd straight loss for the season while Fig Tree would be looking to get their 2nd win.


ANOTHER ST.KITTS BASKETBALL STAR RECRUITED BY AMERICAN UNIVERSITY - by StKitts Basketball
ANOTHER ST.KITTS BASKETBALL STAR RECRUITED BY AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

St.Pauls Tuff Knots 6-foot-5 forward Javid Spanish Williams became the first University Alaska Nanooks mens basketball team recruit for the 2010-11 season, signing a national letter of intent Thursday with the program in the NCAA Division II Great Northwest Athletic Conference.

Williams was brought to Alaska head coach Clemon Johnsons attention by fellow St.Pauls Tuff Knots Forward Nashorn Maynard, a fellow 6-5 forward and former SKABA MVP .
Javed is what we consider a raw offensive talent, Johnson said in a press release on Thursday. We are encouraged by his ability to rebound the ball, block shots, run the floor and defend the post. He possesses the same competitive nature and eagerness to learn and advance his game that Nash has.

Williams, who has four years of eligibility, will play either power forward or center for the Nanooks as a freshman.

Williams along with Maynard were the dynamic duo which led to the Tuff Knots first title in the St. Kitts Amateur Basketball Championships in 2007, topping the multi-time champions Rams Hitters in the final.

He was named the Most Valuable Player at the Reach One Teach One Basketball Camp, which is conducted by John Spezia, a National Junior College Athletic Association Hall of Fame coach.
Wlliams plans to pursue a degree in computer engineering at UAF.


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


Raduljica number one in Serbian Super Liga for round 7 - by Eurobasket News
International center Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88, agency: Buck Andre) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for FMP Zeleznik Beograd, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7 (Second Stage).
The 22-year old player was the main contributor (23 points, seven rebounds and five assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush Tamis (#6, 2-5) with 24-point margin 92-68. FMP maintains the 5th position in Serbian A League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. FMP will need more victories to improve their 4-3 record. Raduljica has many years of experience at FMP, through which he has constantly improved. Miroslav Raduljica averages this season 19.1ppg and 8.1rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was young international power forward Nemanja Bjelica (209-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) of KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd. Bjelica had a very good evening with a double-double of 31 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd lost that game 69-82 to the higher-ranked Hemofarm (#1, 6-1). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-4 record. Bjelica is well-known at KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was international forward Milan Macvan (205-F-89) of league's top team KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac. Macvan scored 20 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was a key player of Hemofarm, leading his team to a 82-69 easy win against #4 ranked Crvena Zvez. in a game of the week. Hemofarm confirms their top position in the standings Macvan has a very solid season. In 7 games in Serbia he scored 14.3ppg. He also has 6.0rpg and FGP: 55.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Stefan Markovic (194-G-88) of Hemofarm - 11 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Slavko Vranes (229-C-83) of Partizan - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Vuk Ivanovic (208-F/C-83) of Tamis - 18 points and 6 rebounds
7. Boban Marjanovic (222-C-88) of Hemofarm - 17 points and 9 rebounds
8. Vukasin Aleksic (182-G-85) of Radnicki K. - 9 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Dejan Djokic (200-F-80) of Tamis - 17 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88) of FMP - 16 points and 7 rebounds

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


KBL KOREAN BASKETBALL LEAGUE PRE-DRAFT TRY-OUT - by Rick Ross
6 DAYS REMAINING TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
FOR THE KOREAN BASKETBALL LEAGUE TRYOUT CAMP
FOR FOREIGN PLAYERS BEING HELD FROM JULY 20TH
THRU THE 22ND AT THE DESERT OASIS HIGH SCHOOL
IN LAS VEGAS.

THE PLAYERS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN PLAYING IN
THE KBL FOR THE 2010-2011 SEASON WHO MEET THE
QUALIFICATIONS STATED ARE REQUESTED TO FILL OUT
THE APPLICATION FORM AND SEND IT VIA A FAX
OR E-MAIL TO THE KBL OFFICE BY MAY 20TH, 2010
KOREAN TIME.

Link to form here below
http://kbl.or.kr/tryout.asp

Coachross@yahoo.com


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


Sweden U16 wins two in Nordic Cup - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16 wins two in the start of Nordic Cup. The Swedish team won the opener over the team from Norway 69:57. Sweden won the opening tip 16-12, however Norway responded with 26-19 in the second period. The second half belonged to the winners that won the third and the last quarters. Papy Ndiaye (187-G-94) top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Niklas Larsson (195-F-94) netted 13. Simon Ezra scored 12 and Nicholas Spires (205-F-94) followed them with 9. Espen Fjrestad responded with 15 points in the losing effort. Marko Lepovic collected 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Tor Erlend Bognaes added 11.
On May 13th Sweden U16 won over Denmark U16 67:60. The latter looked better in the opening quarter and started with 19-15 lead. Moreover they added 16-12 in the second period to take 8-point lead at the halftime. Sweden U16 bounced back in the second half winning the third and the last periods. At first they closed the gap with 25-17 in the third quarter and then had 15-8 in the last stanza. Nicholas Spires exploded with 28 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Papy Ndiaye and Niklas Larsson nailed 11 points each in a win. Rasmus Glarbjerg Larsen ended up with 12 points in the losing effort.


Sweden U18 remain undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18 remain undefeated at the International tournament of Nordic Cup.
Sweden U18 rolled over Norway U18 69:49 on May 12th. Sweden opened the game with 25-16 and then won the second quarter 16-10. In the second half the Swedish side looked also better and celebrated both victories in the periods. Marcus Eriksson (191-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 17 points, whilst Viktor Gaddefors netted 13. Bouna Ndiaye and Aly Hudgins finished the night with 10 points in the losing case.
On May 13th Sweden overcame Iceland 77:67. The Swedish side opened the game with 19-13 lead at the Solnahallen. Iceland replied with 21-20 in the second frame, but Sweden was better in the third period for 21-9. Again Iceland responded with 24-17 in the final frame, however could not catch up with the winners. William Magarity (205-F-93) led the way with 18 points and 7 rebounds, whilst Marcus Eriksson notched 13. Oddur Olafsson (183-G-92) posted 23 points in the losing effort.
Sweden won over Denmark in the top game of the third day of the competition. The Swedish side improved to 3-0 record after 79:62 victory. Sebastian Norman (204-C-92) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Marcus Eriksson netted 13. Andreas Bigum and Kevin Larsen responded with 12 points each in the losing case.


Enbom calls it quits - by Andreas Eriksson
Jim Enbom (195-F-76) from Plannja Basket have decided to call it quits and retire as a basketball player. Enbom spent his entire career in Plannja with the exception of one year in Sundsvall and one year in Jmtland. He has been a key-player for Plannjas success in the last couple of years, and had Basketligan had a 6th man of the year award, Enbom would probably have been a frontrunner for the award in several of the past seasons.

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


LNA Round: 4 (Semi-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Fribourg - SAV Vacallo 68-62
Fribourg completed the victory over Vacallo in the semifinal series. Edwin Draughan (196-G/F-82, college: Yale) scored 18 points to lead Benetton Fribourg to the decisive third win. Oliver Vogt (209-C-80) added 17 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts. Duane Erwin (206-F-82, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Memphis) responded with 19 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists for Vacallo in the loss.

Starwings - Lugano Tigers 80-82
Lugano advanced into the LNA Final. They narrowly defeated Starwings in the fourth game of the series to book the ticket into the championship series. Michael Efevberha (196-G-84, college: Cal.St. Northridge) notched 25 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for the Tigers. Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: San Diego St.) nailed 22 points in the victory. Vernard Hollins (190-G-80, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Wright St.) answered with 35 points for Starwings. Marcus Sloan (205-F-82, college: TCU) finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.


Stats Leaders LNA
Points Per Game
 Tony BROWN
  Starwings
  (193-G-79)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Brown, Starwings19.6 
 2. Hollins, Starwings19.2 
 3. Draughan, Fribourg18.8 
 4. Abukar, Lugano T.18.7 
 5. Thomas, Lausanne18.3 
 6. Bradley, MGS17.5 
 7. Schneiderman., SAV V.17.4 
 8. Volcy, Monthey17.4 
 9. Efevberha, Lugano T.17.1 
 10. Hines, SAM M.16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus SLOAN
  Starwings
  (205-F-82)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Sloan, Starwings11.1 
 2. Flowers, Lausanne10.1 
 3. Thompson, Lausanne9.3 
 4. Grimm, SAM M.9.3 
 5. Gugino, Boncourt9.0 
 6. Volcy, Monthey8.8 
 7. Southall, BBC Nyon7.8 
 8. Basit, Geneva Devils7.2 
 9. Sanders, Lugano T.7.0 
 10. Dacevic, SAV V.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Vernard HOLLINS
  Starwings
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Hollins, Starwings6.2 
 2. Lukovic, SAV V.5.9 
 3. Monroe, Boncourt5.3 
 4. Walton, Lugano T.4.9 
 5. Pleux-D., Lausanne4.9 
 6. Bradley, MGS4.9 
 7. Gray, SAM Massagno4.4 
 8. Gibson, SAV Vacallo4.4 
 9. Johnson, BBC Nyon4.4 
 10. Stein, Lugano T.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Kameron GRAY
  SAM Massagno
  (186-G-82)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Gray, SAM Massagno2.9 
 2. Gugino, Boncourt2.9 
 3. Volcy, Monthey2.6 
 4. Gibson, SAV Vacallo2.3 
 5. Pleux-D., Lausanne2.1 
 6. Sloan, Starwings2.1 
 7. Efevberha, Lugano T.2.1 
 8. Lukovic, SAV V.2.1 
 9. Johnson, BBC Nyon2.0 
 10. Peterson, Boncourt2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Alex THOMPSON
  Lausanne
  (208-F-85)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Thompson, Lausanne3.5 
 2. Southall, BBC Nyon2.8 
 3. VanderMeer, Lugano T.2.5 
 4. Sloan, Starwings1.3 
 5. Sanders, Lugano T.1.2 
 6. Niang, MGS1.2 
 7. Gilmore, MGS1.1 
 8. Vogt, Fribourg1.0 
 9. Volcy, Monthey1.0 
 10. Gugino, Boncourt1.0 


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Krauser scores 17 - by David Edole
The Christchurch Cougars survived a Taranaki Mountain Airs comeback to win their National Basketball League game 75-72 in Christchurch tonight.

A steal and lay-up by Cougars guard Jeremy Kench (14 points, 4 steals) with eight seconds remaining gave the Cougars win number six and keeps their hopes alive for a top-six placing.

After leading by 14 in the opening quarter, the Cougars looked like they were going to blowout the visitors, who shot a woeful 5-of-21 from the field and commited seven turnovers.

Down by as many as 18 in the early stages of the second quarter, the Airs managed to fight back ending the quarter on an 8-0 run to cut the deficit to seven at the break. Aaron Bailey-Nowell scored eight of his 17 points in the second.

Bailey-Nowell would also have a monster game on the boards, grabbing 17. As a team the Airs dominated the boards 52-30, 19 of them offensive.

After the break, the Cougars offense dried up scoring only 10 points in the quarter as the Airs closed the gap to a basket with a period to play.

The final quarter was close, with the Cougars largest lead only five points, but again the Airs showed fight eventually taking their first lead of the game from a Jack Leasure field goal with 1:28 remaining.

Leasure top scored for his side with 19 but had to shoot 20 field goals for his points. Tim Behrendorff who had a game high 20 points hit two big shots to eventually give the Cougars a one point lead with 26 seconds left.

Airs had a chance to win the game but the Kench steal off Jack Leasure iced the game, giving the struggling Airs their fourth straight loss.

Airs will now travel up to Nelson to play the Giants who will be desperate to win and move back into the second spot.

In Invercargill, the Waikato Pistons have routed the Southland Sharks 97-72. Due to poor weather conditions the referees for the contest were diverted to Queenstown, hence the late start to the game.

Another poor third by the Sharks where they lost the quarter by 16 gave the Pistons win number eleven for the season.

Pistons started the game off well leading the quarter 27-20, Thomas Abercrombie scoring 11 of his 19 in the quarter.

Coach Dean Vickerman will be very pleased with the scoring spread, all starters scoring in double figures. Import Carl Krauser (188-G-81, college: Pittsburgh) having his best offensive game as a Pistons with 17.

It was the same at the start of the second, stiffling defense from the visitors gave them a 37-25.

But Sharks Luke Martin scored 18 of his 22 points in the half to cut the lead to five at the break.

The Christchurch Cougars survived a Taranaki Mountain Airs comeback to win their National Basketball League game 75-72 in Christchurch tonight.

A steal and lay-up by Cougars guard Jeremy Kench (14 points, 4 steals) with eight seconds remaining gave the Cougars win number six and keeps their hopes alive for a top-six placing.

After leading by 14 in the opening quarter, the Cougars looked like they were going to blowout the visitors, who shot a woeful 5-of-21 from the field and commited seven turnovers.

Down by as many as 18 in the early stages of the second quarter, the Airs managed to fight back ending the quarter on an 8-0 run to cut the deficit to seven at the break. Aaron Bailey-Nowell scored eight of his 17 points in the second.

Bailey-Nowell would also have a monster game on the boards, grabbing 17. As a team the Airs dominated the boards 52-30, 19 of them offensive.

After the break, the Cougars offense dried up scoring only 10 points in the quarter as the Airs closed the gap to a basket with a period to play.

The final quarter was close, with the Cougars largest lead only five points, but again the Airs showed fight eventually taking their first lead of the game from a Jack Leasure field goal with 1:28 remaining.

Leasure top scored for his side with 19 but had to shoot 20 field goals for his points. Tim Behrendorff who had a game high 20 points hit two big shots to eventually give the Cougars a one point lead with 26 seconds left.

Airs had a chance to win the game but the Kench steal off Jack Leasure iced the game, giving the struggling Airs their fourth straight loss.

Airs will now travel up to Nelson to play the Giants who will be desperate to win and move back into the second spot.

In Invercargill, the Waikato Pistons have routed the Southland Sharks 97-72. Due to poor weather conditions the referees for the contest were diverted to Queenstown, hence the late start to the game.

Another poor third by the Sharks where they lost the quarter by 16 gave the Pistons win number eleven for the season.

Pistons started the game off well leading the quarter 27-20, Thomas Abercrombie scoring 11 of his 19 in the quarter.

Coach Dean Vickerman will be very pleased with the scoring spread, all starters scoring in double figures. Import Carl Krauser having his best offensive game as a Pistons with 17.

It was the same at the start of the second, stiffling defense from the visitors gave them a 37-25.

But Sharks Luke Martin scored 18 of his 22 points in the half to cut the lead to five at the break.


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


Azovmash in finals! - by Alexander Muzyka
Azovmash made a new self-record. This team was known as a stereotypes' crusher after it made a step from 7th place of regular championship to a bronze in Superleague at 2000. This time Azovmash has a chance to win a champions title. 'Lions' stepped over Kryvbasbasket in quarterfinals and were stronger than Ferro-ZNTU in semifinals. Not only the Oleksandr Shaposhnykov's injury was the reason but also the good play of Fred House (195-F-78) - American forward showed the best this semifinals.

Semifinals

Fourth game
Azovmash - Ferro-ZNTU - 90:83 (25:13, 21:20, 23:21, 21:29)
A: Curry (18), Baida (6), House (26 + 7 stl + 7 rbd + 5 ast), Alexander (16 + 7 ast + 6 rbd), Rizvic (10 + 9 rbd) - start; Skutelnik (10), Ivshyn (4), Podorvannyi (0), Jarutis (0).
F: Rybalko (6 + 5 rbd), Burtt (23 + 5 ast + 5 rbs), Tiggs (21 + 6 rbs), Thomas (8 + 7 stl), Chemiakin (5) - start; Hunter (15 + 6 rbs), Kandrusevich (5), Charikau (0).
Azovmash wins series 3:1.

Finals
Budivelnyk (1) - Azovmash (6)

3d place games
Ferro-ZNTU (2) - BC Kyiv (4)

5th place games
Kryvbasbasket (3) - BC Odesa (5) / Hoverla (8)

7th place games
BC Odesa (5) / Hoverla (8) - Dnipro (7)


Standings - Higher League

Higher League

Final Standings

1-8 places group
1. Cherkasy Monkeys 26-0
2. Kremin-Politekhnik 18-8
3. KTU Kryvyi Rih 16-10
4. Avantazh-Politekh. 13-13
5. Dynamo Dnepr. 11-15
6. Vinnytski Zubry 8-18
7. Voliyn Basket 6-20
8. Skorpioni 6-20
9-13 places group
9. SportLitsei 11-5
10. BC Sevastopol 11-5
11. Koksokhim-Stal 9-7
12. Khimik-2 7-9
13. BC Ternopil 2-14




Superleague Round: 4 (Semi-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Azovmash - Ferro-ZNTU 90-83
Azovmash joined Budivelnyk in the Superleague Final. The defending champions held off Ferro-ZNTU in the fourth game of the semifinal series to reach the next stage. Fred House (195-F-78, agency: Lanshire Group, college: S.Utah) tallied 26 points, 7 rebounds, 7 steals and 5 assists for Azovmash. Ramel Curry (191-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) netted 18 points in the victory. Steve Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) accounted for 23 points, 5 boards and 5 assists for Ferro-ZNTU. Kevin Tiggs (196-G/F-84, college: E.Tenn.St.) finished with 21 points in the losing effort.


Higher League Standings

1 League

Final Standings

(after Final Eight)

1. Budservis (Sarny)
2. Stryba (Chernivtsi)
3. KPU (Zaporizhia)
4. Merydian (Kostopil)
5. Voskhod (Horlivka)
6. SFGU Invasport
7. BC Zhytomyr
8. KDYUSH (Mariupol)


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Steve BURTT
  Ferro-ZNTU
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.4
 1. Burtt, Fe.22.4 
 2. Karim, DniproAzot21.2 
 3. El-Amin, Budivelnyk20.7 
 4. Thomas, Fe.20.0 
 5. McClintock, Mykolaiv18.6 
 6. Curry, Azovmash18.4 
 7. Mitchell, Khimik18.3 
 8. Williams, Halychyna18.0 
 9. Atanackovic, Gryfo.17.5 
 10. Daniels, Azovmash17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael FRASER
  Hoverla
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 11.4
 1. Fraser, Hoverla11.4 
 2. Thomas, Fe.10.2 
 3. Finn, Halychyna7.9 
 4. McClintock, Mykolaiv7.8 
 5. Pettway, Dnipro7.8 
 6. Morton, DniproAzot7.3 
 7. Hunter, Fe.7.2 
 8. Rizvic, Azovmash7.2 
 9. Dubnyuk, Pulsar6.9 
 10. Agafonov, Khimik6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Jason CROWE
  Dnipro
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 7.7
 1. Crowe, Dnipro7.7 
 2. Blassingame, BC Od.6.4 
 3. Sparks, Hoverla5.7 
 4. Burtt, Fe.5.5 
 5. Mitchell, Khimik5.4 
 6. Karim, DniproAzot5.4 
 7. El-Amin, Budivelnyk5.3 
 8. Lukashov, BC Kyiv4.9 
 9. Love, Mykolaiv4.5 
 10. Hill, BC Odessa3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Fred HOUSE
  Azovmash
  (195-F-78)
  Avg: 3
 1. House, Azovmash3.0 
 2. El-Amin, Budivelnyk2.4 
 3. Crowe, Dnipro2.2 
 4. Tiggs, Fe.1.8 
 5. Sparks, Hoverla1.8 
 6. Rybalko, Fe.1.8 
 7. Karim, DniproAzot1.7 
 8. Shemosyuk, Pulsar1.7 
 9. Curry, Azovmash1.7 
 10. Skutyelnik, Azovm.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Viacheslav KRAVTSOV
  BC Kyiv
  (212-C-87)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Kravtsov, BC Kyiv2.7 
 2. McClintock, Mykolaiv1.9 
 3. Balashov, BC Odessa1.9 
 4. Rizvic, Azovmash1.9 
 5. Agafonov, Khimik1.7 
 6. Morton, DniproAzot1.6 
 7. Pettway, Dnipro1.5 
 8. Ulyanko, Hoverla1.1 
 9. Matyukevych, Mykol.1.0 
 10. Ulyanko, Pulsar1.0 


*****************************************************
  UNITED ARAB EMIRATES   


Al Riyadi advanced to the Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Al Riyadi advanced to the Semifinals of the Arab Club Championships as they beat Al Sharja from United Arab Emirates. The team from Lebanon looked better throughout the game and reached 100:72 win. They started with 28-14 in the opening quarter, however lost the second stanza 18-28. Another 25-16 brought them a better lead that they held until the end. Nate Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) was named the MVP of the game.
Tonight Al Kuwait will meet Al Riyadi in the first Semifinal at 15.00. Later today El Ettehad El Sakandary from Egypt will pay against Moutahed from Lebanon.

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


McGowan scored more than 30 points for the fourth game on a row - by Hector Lopez
Cedric McGowan (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) scored for the fourth game on a row more than 30 points playing for Marne and is the main scorer for the Metro League with 28.6 ppg. But Marne was defeated 103-95, by Larre Borges, which is sharing the first position with Waston after eigth rounds. The results were as follows:
Larre Borges 103 - Cristian Modernell 29 points
Marne 95 - Cedric McGowan 32 points 11 rebounds
- - -
Waston 98 - Emiliano Baston (200-F-88) 33 points 21 rebounds, Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 8 points 5 rebounds
Yale 95 - Tarrie Monroe (202-F-77, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Lewis) 27 points and 12 rebounds
- - -
Nacional 72 - Keith Gayden (202-F-83, agency: EM-PA, college: Duquesne) 23 points 10 rebounds
Olivol Mundial 71 - Rodrigo Trelles (191-F-88) 27 points 7 rebounds, Kevin Mickens (206-F-83, college: George Mason) 12 points 3 rebounds

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


Cobos rookie of the year - by Wolfgang Lucena
Guaiqueries de Margarita's Small forward Tulio Cobos (196-F-86, college: Northeastern St.) earned the 2010 LPB rookie of the year award. Tulio Cobos from Curiepe Miranda State, has been working really hard to improve as basketball player, his main dream as basketball player is wear Venezuela's senior National Team uniform. In the United States of America Tulio Cobos played two amazing years of college level with North Eastern Oklahoma A&M College; it seems like 2010 is the year for Tulio Cobos to go to the next level; The Senior National Team. Malembe, malembe, malembe no ma!!
http://www.liderendeportes.com/DetalleMasDeportes.aspx?id=26923

*****************************************************
  WBA   


Gwinnett Majic Announce Opening Night Roster, Guest Coach For Season Opener - by Joe Myers
The Gwinnett Majic, the defending champions of the World Basketball Association Exposure League (WBA), have annouced their opening night roster as well as the guest coach for their season opener against the Franklin (Tenn.) Knights tonight at 7 p.m. at Berkmar High in Lilburn.

The Majic's active roster features six returnees, led by last year's Most Valuable Player B.J. Puckett. He is joined by fellow first team All-WBA pick Adrian Penland, second-team all-league selection Javon Randolph, Adrian Borders, Mike Sloan and Reggie Anderson. Two of the Majic's three inactive players, Marcus Brown and Wayne Arnold, are returning second-team All-WBA selections as well.

Gwinnett's guest coach for the season opener is former Berkmar High basketball standout Clark Williams. He was the leading scorer on Berkmar High's state championship teams in 2000 and 2001 and the Georgia State University graduate is now a sports writer for the Gwinnett Daily Post newspaper. Williams will be the guest coach on the Majic's Gwinnett County Teacher Appreciation Night, where all Gwinnett County teachers will receive free admission to the game and be recognized during the contest as well.

After tonight's season opener, the Majic will host the Decatur Court Kings at Meadowcreek High in Norcross starting at 6 p.m. That game, which will feature guest coach Liz Carter - a candidate in Georgia's 4th U.S. Congressional District - is Gwinnett County Police Force Appreciation Night. All Gwinnett County policemen will get into the game for free and be recognized.

For more information about the Gwinnett Majic or the WBA, go to www.gwinnettmajic.com or www.wbaball.net.

The WBA Exposure League serves as a training ground to develop players on and off the court. Emphasis is placed on exposure, development, community involvement, and most importantly providing an exciting brand of basketball and entertainment. Hundreds of former WBA Players have gone on to play professional basketball all over the world including the D-League and NBA.

The Next Best Thing To The NBA!

Gwinnett Majic 2010 Roster
1 Javon Randolph Savannah State University
3 Adrian Borders Wofford College
5 Adrian Penland Lander University
11 Darren Williams Carson Newman College
15 Will Lewis Clayton State University
20 Keron McKenzie Armstrong Atlantic University
21 BJ Puckett Clayton State University
22 Patrick Shokpeka Armstrong Atlantic University
23 Mike Sloan Clayton State University
33 Reggie Anderson Carver Bible College
34 Albert Jackson University of Georgia

*Marcus Brown Georgia State University
*Frank Davis Tennessee Tech University
*Wayne Arnold Tennessee State University
* - Inactive


Majic to kick off WBA season tonight - by Joe Myers
By Clark Williams
Gwinnett Daily Post

Ever heard of the Gwinnett Majic? Outside of the coaches and players friends and family, theres a good chance that the answer is no.

Its not like the team suffers from a talent deficiency after winning the World Basketball Association Exposure League (WBA) championship last season. It also isnt because the players arent well known with a roster that includes former Berkmar standouts Adrien Borders (6'0''-G-83, college: Wofford) and Wayne Arnold (6'4''-G-84, agency: ACMT, college: Tennessee St.), as well as Dacula product Benjamin Puckett (6'9''-F-83, agency: NM Services, college: Clayton St.).

The teams anonymity is connected to the problems many semi-professional sports teams face, that there seems to be an overall lack of fan interest. And with a lack of interest comes a lack of attendees.

Last season, it was hardly uncommon for the Majic whose opener is tonight at Berkmar to play games in front of crowds that seldom exceeded a hundred or so spectators.

While likely a sobering experience for the spotlight-seeking athlete, the players on this team didnt let vacant stands affect their play as they supported each other, winning the WBA championship via a thrilling buzzer-beating jump shot along the way.

Head coach David Akin's team somewhat like a summer league, in that the Majic are a sort of segue for players seeking to extend their careers beyond high school and college and aspire to playing basketball overseas.

A cohesive and talented bunch, this team unfortunately hasnt received the recognition befitting of their achievements.

But now with most of their key players from last seasons championship squad back, the Majic hope to add another element to this seasons agenda more fan support.

We are going to take the show on the road this season, said Akin, a 1998 Berkmar grad. Most of our games last year were played at Bogan Park.

The on the road plan refers to the teams branching out and playing more games at several of the area high schools, including Meadowcreek, Duluth, Parkview, South Gwinnett and Berkmar.

In addition to playing more games in the heart of the county, the Majics plans feature several marketing strategies that they hope will garner more enthusiasm.

On most nights, Gwinnett County teachers, both public and private, firefighters, police officers and even children from the boys and girls clubs will be admitted into games free of charge.

Those marketing strategies dont guarantee an inevitable influx of fans to games. With most things, gaining attention and exposure often takes time. Just ask Borders.

A point guard who averaged 12 points per game last season, Borders has been working hard on his game to get the exposure he feels he deserves.

Now in his third season with the Majic, the high-flying guard has had brief stints in the ABA and CBA before finding a home with his newest team.

And even though he appreciates the camaraderie he has with his teammates and the management, Borders aspires to someday play professionally overseas.

Im very fortunate to be playing on a team right here in Gwinnett, Borders said. But I am still kind of using this as a tunnel to get overseas.

In doing so, Borders said that he is getting interest from several teams across the waters, but in the meantime he attests that he will continue to give his all to the team that has given him a chance.

Like Borders, Puckett has a similar interest. Last seasons most valuable player, he hopes to use his experience with the Majic as a tool to market himself as well as to keep in shape for when a team overseas comes calling. He averaged 20 points and a team-leading 10 rebounds a game last season.

Puckett, who recently re-signed with the team, has already suited up for several clubs in both Argentina and Mexico. But he enjoys playing for his hometown team, adding that the only missing component to the success has been fan support. He feels strongly that will not be the case this season.

Last season was better than the previous season, he said. This year Im excited to see what happens.


Decatur Court Kings Announce Opening Night Roster..... - by Joe Myers
On the eve of their season opener against the Jacksonville BlueWaves, the Decatur Court Kings have announced their opening night roster.

This year, the Court Kings diligently sought after quality talent for their team and head coach Frank Jones and his staff have narrowed it down to these players and feel confident that they will be a competitive force.

'We have defense, we have shooters, and we have the low post covered,' said Jones. I'm excited about how far this team and these players will go. The 15-man roster assures us that our game plan can be executed in any situation, as we are deep in all positions.'

The Decatur Court Kings open the season against the Jacksonville BlueWaves tonight at 7 p.m. at Agnes Scott College.

Each team will play 16 regular-season games before the playoffs, which are scheduled to start in mid-July. For more information about the WBA Exposure League and the complete 2010 schedule, go to the league's Web site at www.wbaball.net. The schedule is located on the site's main page under the 'Schedule' header.

The WBA Exposure League serves as a training ground to develop players on and off the court. Emphasis is placed on exposure, development, community involvement, and most importantly providing an exciting brand of basketball and entertainment. Hundreds of former WBA Players have gone on to play professional basketball all over the world including the D-League and NBA.

The Next Best Thing To The NBA!

DECATUR COURT KINGS 2010 ROSTER
Michael Benton (6'9''-C-80, agency: ACMT, college: Charleston)* C 6'11'
Raymond Canady Jr. (6'7''-F-84, agency: GOTathletes, college: Valdosta St.) G/F 6'7'
Shannon Chambers (6'7''-F-81, college: Charleston)* G/F 6'8'
Marques Dixon G/F 6'7'
Chad Eichelberger (6'9''-F-82, college: St.Andrews)* F 6'9'
Austin Ewing (5'11''-G, college: N.Carolina A&T)* G 6'0'
Dewitt Henley (6'1''-G-86, college: Oakwood) (DJ)* G 6'2'
Andrew Jones (6'3''-F/G-83, agency: Weller Sports - Entertainment, college: Miles)* G 6'3'
Miguel Morton (6'10''-F-83, college: Columbus St.)* F 6'9'
D'Andre McGrew (6'4''-G/F-82, college: Georgia St.)** G 6'5'
Andres Sandoval (6'4''-G-83)* G 6'4'
Hakeem Scott G 6'0'
Iman Walcott (6'5''-F) G/F 6'5'
Wilkins Anthony (6'7''-G-80, college: Kent St.)* G/F 6'7'
Marquis Wright (6'8''-F/C-80, college: Alabama) F 6'8'

Practice squad 3
Robert Bankhead G 5'10'
Derek Brooks (6'1''-G) G 6'4'
Larry Diamond G 6'0'




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Women News

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


Erin Phillips signs with Wisla - by Eurobasket News
Australian International Erin Phillips (173-G-85) leaves Lotos and will not play for the team in the next season. The player moves to another Polish team Wisla.
Recently Lotos clinched the eleventh PLKK title. They overcame Gorzow in the fourth game of the series in Gdynia to celebrate the championship title. Lotos had to withstand a strong fourth quarter comeback rally from the visitors to ensure the positive outcome at the end. Erin Phillips (173-G-85) provided 17 points, 6 boards and 2 assists to lead Lotos.
In 2009-2010 for Lotos Gdynia she played in Euroleague's 12 games and averaged 10.6ppg, 5.2rpg, 3.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 73.1%. In Polish League after 30 games her stats read 10.9ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 40.2%, 3PT: 44.1%, FT: 76.6%.
In her top performance for the Polish team she recorded 21 points in the final opener. Gorzow however posted the first win in the PLKK Final. They held off Lotos at home court as Nicky Anosike dropped 15 points. Luidmila Sapova and Samantha Richards added 14 points each for Gorzow. Erin Phillips knocked down 21 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished out 7 assists for Lotos.


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  BELGIUM - Women  


D1 Stats Leaders
Division I Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Dennett, Katel. 21.2
2 Leemans, Katel. 17.6
3 Hendrickx, Katel. 16.9
4 Deyaert, Wareg. 16.7
5 Meesseman, Ieper 16.1
Rebounds Per Game
1 Fleischer, Dexia 12.9
2 Moore, Spirou 11.2
3 Hendrickx, Katel. 10.2
4 Dennett, Katel. 9.6
5 Meesseman, Ieper 9.2
Assists Per Game
1 Salvi, Chaud 2.9
2 Vercauteren, Hout. 2.7
3 Arts, BBC, 2.7
4 Vanloo, Waregem 2.4
5 Meesseman, Ieper 2.2
Steals Per Game
1 Raman, Waregem 2.8
2 Deyaert, Waregem 2.4
3 Ballau, Spirou 2.3
Blocks Per Game
1 Dochez, N.Namur 1.8
2 Dennett, Katel. 1.6
3 Raman, Waregem1.6
2FGP
1 Fleischer, Dexia 58.2
2 Meesseman, Ieper 57.0
3 Driel, BBC 55.4
3FGP
1 Foucart, Wareg. 51.4
2 Deyaert, Wareg. 47.2
3 Remy, N.Namur 47.1
Free Throws
1 Theunis., Chaud 93.9
2 Vonder, BBC 91.9
3 Dubuc, Dexia 84.8


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  FYR MACEDONIA - Women  


Standings - Women
D1 Standings
 1. Vigor Skopje 15-0 
 2. Mladinec 11-4 
 3. Biljana 8-7 
 4. Narkonon 7-8 
 5. V.Lisici 3-12 
 6. Kumanovo 1-14 


Vigor Skopje and Mladinec to meet in the Playoff Finals - by Eurobasket News
Vigor Skopje and Mladinec will fight for the championship title in FYROM.
Vigor's way to this stage was easy as they didnt loose any single game from the beginning of the season. The defending champion finished first phase with 10-0 and after that they registered five more wins in phase two. In the Playoff Semifinals, Vigor eliminated Naronkon with 2-0. They actually won just one game (89-49) as they started with 1-0 lead due to wins in regular season.
On the other side, Mladinec had to work hard in order to reach the Finals. Mladinec finished regular season on the second place with 11-4 record. After that, they took on Biljana 006 and eliminated them with 2-1. In Game One, Mladinec celebrated huge 77-48 win. In the next meeting Biljana pulled an upset as they grabbed 66-65 victory. It was 1-1 and third game was played at the Mladinec home court. They took advantage on than was easily won 70-44.
First game of the Playoff Finals is scheduled for tomorrow. Vigor Skopje starts with 1-0.

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  ISRAEL - Women  


Coach Shiki Falach - by Gil Goshen


Coach Shiki Falach ( coach of the years 2006/7 and 2008/9 ) left Bnoth Hasharon
and signed with Maccabi Ramat Chen.
After coaching Bnoth Hasharon for two years, Coach Shiki have decided to come back home
and signed with Ramat Chen.
Coach Shiki coached Ramat Chen seasons 2005/6 and 2006/7.

Coach Dalia Bushinski ( the coach of the Israeli National U20 )will be the coach of Bnoth Hasharon.

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  ITALY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Brooke SMITH
  Phoenix M.
  (191-F/C-84)
  Avg: 17
 1. Smith, Comense17.0 
 2. Robert, Faenza16.7 
 3. Dixon, GMA Napoli16.0 
 4. Macchi, Familia Schio15.8 
 5. Walker, GMA Napoli15.5 
 6. Brunson, Taranto15.3 
 7. Machanguana, Bracco G.15.3 
 8. Bjelica, Vomero NA13.8 
 9. Pascalau, Priolo13.7 
 10. Cirov, Priolo13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcedes WALKER
  GMA Napoli
  (191-C-86)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Walker, GMA Napoli10.2 
 2. Bjelica, Vomero NA9.6 
 3. Robert, Faenza8.7 
 4. Tillis, Familia Schio8.5 
 5. Willis, Livorno8.0 
 6. Smith, Comense7.6 
 7. Brunson, Taranto7.6 
 8. Harper, Umana R.7.6 
 9. Machanguana, Bracco G.6.9 
 10. Screen, Basket P.6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Adriana PINTO
  Faenza
  (169-G-78)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Pinto, Faenza3.4 
 2. Macchi, Familia Schio2.5 
 3. Eric, Vomero NA2.5 
 4. Dixon, GMA Napoli2.2 
 5. Ballardini, Umana R.2.1 
 6. Martinez Pra., Bracco G.2.0 
 7. Moro, Familia Schio2.0 
 8. Goryanova, GMA N.1.9 
 9. Wambe, Taranto1.8 
 10. Sauret Gille., Famili.1.6 
Steals Per Game
 Angela ZAMPELLA
  Comense
  (170-G-78)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Zampella, Comense5.3 
 2. Dixon, GMA Napoli4.7 
 3. Pinto, Faenza4.3 
 4. Martinez Pra., Bracco G.4.3 
 5. Zara, Basket Parma3.9 
 6. Macchi, Familia Schio3.9 
 7. Smith, Comense3.8 
 8. Eric, Vomero NA3.8 
 9. Machanguana, Bracco G.3.7 
 10. Fazio, Comense3.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Oleksandra PRYSTUPA
  Faenza
  (203-C-89)
  Avg: 0.9
 1. Prystupa, Faenza0.9 
 2. Tillis, Familia Schio0.9 
 3. Alexander, Faenza0.9 
 4. Harper, Umana R.0.9 
 5. Smith, Comense0.9 
 6. Van Malderen, GMA N.0.6 
 7. Godin, Taranto0.6 
 8. Wabara, Bracco G.0.6 
 9. Mosby, Bracco Geas0.5 
 10. Cinili, Umbertide0.5 


Playoff Finals: Familia Schio ties the score to 2-2 - by Eurobasket News
Familia Schio - Taranto 56-53
Familia Schio was better than Taranto for the second straight time and managed to tie the score to 2-2. Nicole Antibe (187-C/F-74) stepped up for the hosts with 13 points, while Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80) added 11 points and 10 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) collected 18 points and 8 boards. Decisive Game Five will be played on Sunday and Taranto will be the host.


*****************************************************
  POLAND - Women  


The Polish NT comes back from USA - by Eurobasket News
The Polish NT comes back from USA as the team played three friendly games versus WNBA teams. At first Connecticut Sun smashed our team 89:46 taking 37-15 lead after the opening quarter. The second period became a disaster for Poland in offence as they managed to score only three points. In the second half Poland looked decent and managed to produced better game. Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) top-scored for the European side with 10 points, while Magdalena Leciejewska (191-C-86) , Piekarska and Skobel had 6 each.
In the second game New York Liberty overcame Poland 77:60. Our team grabbed 23-20 advantage after the opening quarter, however New York bounced back with 29-13 in the second period. In the rest of the game USA team controlled the game and led it to the win. Magdalena Leciejewska ended up with 11 points in the losing effort. Skobel and Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) followed her with 10 points apiece.
In the last game Poland lost to Washington Mystics 44:71. The National team took 14-12 lead, however could not keep the lead for good. Washington responded with 16-8 in the second period and won also the third and the last quarters. Justyna Zurowska paced all the guests with 12 points, while Mieloszynska and Agnieszka Skobel (180-F-89) added 9 each.

Connecticut Sun - Poland 89:46 (37:15, 15:3, 17:14, 20:14)

New York Liberty - Poland 77:60 (20:23, 29:13, 13:14, 15:10)

Poland- Washington Mystics 44:71 (14:12, 8:16, 15:20, 7:23)


Erin Phillips signs with Wisla - by Eurobasket News
Australian International Erin Phillips (173-G-85) leaves Lotos and will not play for the team in the next season. The player moves to another Polish team Wisla.
Recently Lotos clinched the eleventh PLKK title. They overcame Gorzow in the fourth game of the series in Gdynia to celebrate the championship title. Lotos had to withstand a strong fourth quarter comeback rally from the visitors to ensure the positive outcome at the end. Erin Phillips (173-G-85) provided 17 points, 6 boards and 2 assists to lead Lotos.
In 2009-2010 for Lotos Gdynia she played in Euroleague's 12 games and averaged 10.6ppg, 5.2rpg, 3.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 38.9%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 73.1%. In Polish League after 30 games her stats read 10.9ppg, 5.3rpg, 3.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 40.2%, 3PT: 44.1%, FT: 76.6%.
In her top performance for the Polish team she recorded 21 points in the final opener. Gorzow however posted the first win in the PLKK Final. They held off Lotos at home court as Nicky Anosike dropped 15 points. Luidmila Sapova and Samantha Richards added 14 points each for Gorzow. Erin Phillips knocked down 21 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished out 7 assists for Lotos.


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  RUSSIA - Women  


Changes in Spartak Moscow Region - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Moscow Region will have a new face next season. There are some changes that already can be mentioned now even before the next season.
Good news that Pokey Chatman stays in the team. The Coach together with the team continued to write in Euroleague history as they claimed the fourth straight title. They overcame Ros Casares to prove once again their dominance in the European basketball. Diana Taurasi (182-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) had another sizzling performance for Spartak as she poured in 29 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.
Tatiana Shchegoleva (192-F-82) returns to the roster and will be a great addition after a missing year. In 2008-2009 for Spartak Vidnoe Moscow Region in Euroleague she played 17 games and averaged 6.5ppg, 3.0rpg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 77.1%. In Russian League after 24 games: 10.6ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 45.0%, FT: 86.3%.
Sylvia Fowles (198-C-85, college: LSU) and Diana Taurasi meanwhile moved to Turkey. Recently Galatasaray Istanbul announced the signing of small forward Seimone Augustus and pivot Sylvia Fowles via their official website. Fenerbahce Istanbul has signed Diana Taurasi for the 2010-2011 season. Taurasi also was a member of both the Women's 2004 and 2008 Gold medal Olympic Basketball Teams. She was named 2009 WNBA and WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award.
Sonja Petrovic (189-F-89), Sue Bird (175-G-80, college: Connecticut) and Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) will continue in the team in the next season.


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  SPAIN - Women  


Amaya Valdemoro heads to Rivas - by Eurobasket News
One of the most famous Spanish players, Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76) will play for Rivas. The player leaves Ros Casares and will have a new team in 2010-2011 season.
Not only the European glory, however WNBA experience has the player. In 1998 Houston Comets enjoyed three years in summer. Later in 2001 Ros Casares Valencia kept the player for 5 years as in the last season she averaged 18.3ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.0apg, 2.5spg, 2FGP: 41.7%, 3FGP: 36.2%; and in Euroleague had 17.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 2.7apg, 2.9spg, 0.5bpg, 2FGP: 49.6%, 3FGP: 35.1%, 3FGP: 75.5%. Another three seasons the player spent in CSKA and came back to Ros Casares Valencia in 2008. Last season she was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LFB Player of the Year, Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LFB Forward of the Year,
Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LFB Domestic Player of the Year.
Amaya Valdemoro averaged 12.0 points per game for Ros Casares Valencia in Euroleague and had 11.1 in Spanish league.
Amaya Valdemoro nailed 6 points in the Final over Perfumerias as Ros Casares became the LBF Champion after they have swept the finals series against Perfumerias. After taking 1-0 lead, Ros Casares worked hard and needed an overtime in Game 2 in order to win the title.
Her new Rivas finished the last season with 21-5 record and was eliminated in the Semifinals. Perfumerias booked a spot for the LFB Finals after they outplayed Rivas Ecopolis as a guest 65-68. Perfumerias celebrated 65-59 victory in Game 1.

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


Galatasaray- Fenerbahce final game report - by Deniz Ozanguc
Fenerbahce swept out their arcrivalries Galatasaray and took their eight championship. This championship is Fenerbahce's fiftth consecutive title.
Nilay Yigit (170-G-79) of Galatasaray dished out a game high with 7 assists.
The only period Galatasaray led was the the third period with 26-16 lead.
Fenerbahce's Australian star Penny Taylor (185-F-81) recorded 28 points and 7 rebaunds. Galatasaray's American player Kathie Douglas (185-G/F-79,college:Purdue) scored a team-high with 22 points for Galatasaray. American Ebony Vernice Hoffman (188-C/F-82, college: USC) scored a personal play-off high with 16 points and 3 steals. She was unstoppable including her 3 three points in the last five minutes of the game. Also, guard Birsel Vardarli (175-G-80) had 17 points for Fenerbahce.
Bahar Caglar (188-F-88) of Galatasaray and Penny Taylor finished in a tie for the game-high in rebaunds with seven apiece.
Galatasay outrebounded Fenerbahce but Galatasaray finished with 17 turnovers comparing to Fenerbahce's 13 turnovers.
Fenerbahce's bench outscored Galatasaray's 33 to 26.
Galatasaray still holds the record of 11 championships crown also a record nine in a row from is the longest consecutive championship winning streak of any Turkish Women Basketball Leauge team.
Galatasaray coach Zafer Kalaycioglu was a former coach of Fenerbahce.


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women  


CAHS star to join ex-WNBA standout in UNC-Wilmington - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS Charlotte Amalie High School senior standout Aesha Peters (91) accepted a full scholarship last month to play basketball at Prairie View A&M University and one of the main attractions, she said, was the chance to play under coach Cynthia Cooper-Dyke.

Cooper-Dyke, a two-time WNBA Most Valuable Player and one of the most decorated players in the history of womens basketball, accepted the head coaching position at UNC-Wilmington last week. Peters announced Wednesday she plans to follow Cooper-Dyke to the Colonial Athletic Association school and hopefully become a member of her first Seahawk recruiting class.

Coach Cooper has been through a lot and she brings that family atmosphere to the program, said Peters, who tallied 13 points, 11.1 rebounds and four blocks a game during her senior year. Im very excited and Im looking forward to playing for her.

Peters help lead the Lady Chickenhawks to an undefeated league record this past season and a third consecutive St. Thomas-St. John IAA title. She was named to the St. Thomas squad that competed at the 12th annual Sun Stroke All VI Hoop Classic on St. Croix last month.

She is the only known player from the league so far to sign with a Division I school.

Cooper-Dyke, 47, turned around the program at Prairie View A&M in just five short years. She compiled an 85-72 overall record (64-26 mark in the Southwestern Athletic Conference) during her tenure and led the Panthers to the NCAA tournament in 2007 and 2009.

At UNCW, Cooper-Dyke and Peters will face a similar challenge. The Seahawks have not earned an NCAA Tournament bid in the 24 years since competing in Division I. Meanwhile, CAA juggernauts Old Dominion and James Madison have stood atop the league standings in recent years.

Im excited to get out in the community, to create, to mentor, to mother, to lead these young women down the academic path to their degrees and, of course, down the path to a winning season, not only in the Colonial Athletic Association, but also nationally, Cooper-Dyke said during a press conference Monday introducing her as the programs ninth head coach.

Its not known how many players from Cooper-Dykes initial recruiting class at Prairie View will follow her to UNCW.

The reality is that kids go to schools to play for certain coaches, said CAHS coach Myron Corbett, who has assisted Peters throughout the recruitment process. At the moment, Aesha has to do some paperwork with the NCAA. But she has been offered a full scholarship from Wilmington and is looking forward to playing in a more competitive league.

Corbett said Peters was aware of the possibility that Cooper-Dyke may land another job when she signed with Prairie View on April 15.

Before her Division I coaching debut at Prairie View, Cooper-Dyke had an outstanding playing career with the Houston Comets in the WNBA that led to her selection for induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. She will enter in August. She was also chosen for the Womens Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009.

Corbett said Peters also received interest from Radford, South Carolina, Georgia, and Mississippi before signing with Prairie View. Other schools have been calling since Cooper-Dyke announcement earlier this week.

The regular signing period for prospective student-athletes enrolling in the 2010-2011 academic year started last month and runs through Wednesday.
BY AARON GRAY