Eurobasket Daily News Report: 5/25/2010 1:00:00 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/25/2010 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

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ALGERIA

Groupe Sportif Petrolier win Play-off stage - by Eurobasket News
Groupe Sportif Petrolier win Play-off stage as the teams won all five games in it. The most excited and the most difficult win was achieved against CRB Dar El Beda on May 21st. Groupe Sportif Petrolier remained undefeated producing 75:73 win. In the last game of the play-offs the winners overcame ASPTT Alger 54:47. CRB Dar El Beda finished second with 4-1 record. WA Boufarik and NB Staoueli finished with 2-3 records each. Trefle BB Blida and ASPTT Alger reached only one victory.

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ASIAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Preliminary Round. Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Smart Gilas - Astana Tigers 71:77 (OT)
Astana posted the second win at the Asia Champions Cup in Doha. The Tigers held off the Filipino champs Smart Gilas to improve at 2-1 record on top of preliminary Pool A. Smart Gilas suffered the second consecutive defeat at the tournament. Dmitriy Gavrilov (205-F-86) unloaded 26 points for the winning team.
The Tigers got to the better start. They earned a 20:14 lead at the end of the opening frame. Astana stayed in front in the second period. They established a 6-point advantage at the interval 36:30. Smart Gilas struggled to change the complexion of the encounter after the main break. Astana rallied to a 51:44 lead heading into the fourth stanza. But Smart Gilas were able to rescue the game in regulation. Aldrech Ramos drained a late triple to send game into overtime. However Dmitriy Gavrilov took over in the extra frame. He knocked down 8 points and sealed the victory for the Kazakh side.
Anton Ponomarev (209-C/F-88, agency: Court Side) finished with 17 points in the victory. Chris Tiu (178-G-85) delivered 17 points for Smart Gilas. Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) added 14 points in the loss.

Smart Gilas: Dmitriy Gavrilov 26, Anton Ponomarev 17
Astana Tigers: Chris Tiu 17, Mark Barroca 14

Mahram - Duhok 109:68
Mahram opened their Asia Champions Cup title defence with the second straight victory. They coasted past Duhok in Group A. Jackson Vroman (208-C/F-81, college: Iowa St.) unleashed 36 points to pace the effort. Duhok suffered their third consecutive loss at the start of the tournament.
The teams stayed close throughout the starting frame. Duhok matched their opponents and trailed by just three points 21:24 at the first break. But the Iranian champions fired off a 14:0 run early in the second term to run away. Mahram rallied to a comfortable 62:35 lead at the interval. The defending champions controlled the pace in the third stanza and finished it ahead by as many as 43 points 91:48. Mahram breezed to the victory in the fourth stanza.
Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) and Hamed Afagh (192-G-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) nailed 13 points each in the win. Calvin Cage (183-G-84, college: Buffalo) replied with 21 points for Duhok. Mohammed Mahdi delivered 17 points in the loss. Mahram will next take on Smart Gilas of Philippine. Duhok will face Smart Gilas on Wednesday.

Mahram: Jackson Vroman 36, Loren Woods 13, Hamed Afagh 13
Duhok: Calvin Cage 21, Mohammed Mahdi 17

Group B
ASU - Al Jalaa 78:64
ASU registered the second consecutive win at the Asia Champions Cup in Qatar. The victory allowed ASU to stay on top of preliminary Group B. Al Jalaa on the other hand slipped at 1-2 record. James Williams

(204-F-79, college: Brown Mackie) dropped 19 points to pace the Jordanian champions.
The first term saw a low-scoring affair. The teams combined for 21 points in the period as ASU grabbed a 13:8 lead. The Jordanian side maintained the advantage throughout the second frame. ASU piled up a 12-point advantage at the interval. However Al Jalaa went on a 14:6 run in the third frame to cut the distance at only 4 points. Wesam Al-Sous (183-G-83) notched a pair of timely triples to put ASU beyond reach. The Jordanian champions maintained the margin in the reminder of the contest and celebrated a comfortable win at the end. Wesam Al-Sous nailed 18 points for ASU. Olumide Oyedeji (208-C/F-81) added 16 points in the victory. Marcelle Yaqqub responded with 23 points for Al Jalaa. Chudney Gray (188-G-78, college: St.John's) accounted for 16 points in the loss.

ASU: James Williams 19, Wesam Al-Sous 18, Olumide Oyedeji 16
Al Jalaa: Marcelle Yaqqub 23, Chudney Gray 16

Al Riyadi - Al Hilal 83:77
Al Riyadi earned the second consecutive win at the Asia Champions Cup in Qatar. The Lebanon team prevailed against their Saudi Arabia counterparts Al Hilal tonight to remain on top of preliminary Group B. Al Hilal in the meantime slipped at 1-2 record. Fadi El Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) scored 19 points to pace Al Riyadi.
The first quarter saw a tough battle. Al Riyadi eked out a narrow 25:23 advantage at the first term. Fadi Al Khatib fired 17 points in the first half and that was him who made difference. Al Riyadi took over in the second stanza and rallied to a 49:36 lead at halftime. The Lebanese champions raised the tempo even higher in the third term and established a comfortable 22-point lead before the final frame. Al Hilal showed character in the fourth quarter as they went on a 14:2 run to cut the deficit. But Al Riyadi stayed confident and sealed the win at the end.
Ali Mahmoud (182-G-83) notched 16 points for Al Riyadi. Nate Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) added 12 points in the winning effort. DerMarr Johnson (206-G-80, college: Cincinnati) answered with 25 points for Al Hilal. Brandon Crump (208-C-82, college: Tennessee) netted 12 points in the loss.

Al Riyadi: Fadi El Khatib 19, Ali Mahmoud 16, Nate Johnson 12
Al Hilal: DerMarr Johnson 25, Brandon Crump 12

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AUSTRALIA

My Commitment!! - by Ivan McFarlin
Being in Bendigo, my goal is play to the best of my abilities, win a championship, and follow my contract to the maximum.

One commitment that I have to do is go to schools and do basketball clinics for young kids. It is a great privilege to teach the young kids because as a basketball player and person, they look up to me and other players as role models. We do so many different drills with the kids such as ball handling, passing, shooting, defense and teamwork. The response that we receive from the young kids is unbelievable because they want to learn. I enjoy coming to schools and teaching kids how to play basketball. Even though the kids have other sports in mind, such as AFL (Australian Football League) footy ball, cricket and volleyball, they really catch on to the basketball drills.

Another commitment that I have made is making sure that I get shots up as much as I can. I feel that if you want to be good, you have to get in the gym and work on strengths and weaknesses. My roommate, Luke Meyer (196-G/F-85, college: St.Louis) and I make it mandatory to shoot for an hour or more to get back our shooting touch and have a repetition for making shots. We have to be on our game in order for the team to have a good chance of winning. The rest of the team also workout and lift weights while they work.

The last commitment is the events that we have to do. We have to do promotions with our sponsors so we can get more fans in the stadium. This past week, me and my teammate Kevin Probert (183-G-88), had a celebrity cook-off against the Lady Braves player in the Bendigo Marketplace, a mall in Bendigo. It was so much fun and I learned some tips on how to cook steak and grill bread. In the future, I will be cooking a lot and doing my best to become a great cook.

I have a big commitment to my team and I won't let them down. I will my best to perform great and make my team better. Stay tuned for the next posting!!

Standings - ABA

ABA Standings

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

Hello Eurobasket!!!! I'm back!!! - by Ivan McFarlin
Hello Euro basket!! Im sorry that I haven't been posting on EB!!! I have been busy with so many events and working hard to improve my game. To update what has been going on, the team that I play on, Bendigo Braves are currently first place in the SEABL and we are on a roll!!! The season has been great and the team is starting to play great together. I have been looking on EB and I just wanted to catch up on all of the players that I know and play against in my career. Most of them are really dominating in their respective countries and making a name for themself.

As for myself, I'm maintaining and doing the best I can in Australia and hopefully bring a trophy to Bendigo, so I have to keep working hard!!! I'm currently averaging a double- double and I cant ask for anything better. It's been a big adjustment dealing with the time difference so I try my best to talk or chat with family and friends when I get the chance.

Here in Bendigo this past weekend, the Bendigo Braves had their 25th anniversary and they celebrated with activities and the reopening and remodelling of the Pall Mall, a mall in downtown Bendigo. The public really came out and supported the cause which was awesome!! Stay tuned for the next posting!!!! Im back!!!

ABA weekend results and stats - by Eurobasket News
In QBL Maroochydore Clippers lost to Mackay Meteors 65:91 at the Maroochydore Basketball Stadium. On Saturday Caboolture Suns were beaten by Mackay Meteors 75:103 while Northside Wizards beat Toowoomba Mountaineers 95:72. Ipswich Force were defeated by South West Metro Pirates 77:81 as the latter got 15 points from Brendan Teys (188-G-90). Troy Thomson nailed 14, while Zac Carter (199-F/G-89) netted 11. Gladstone Power rolled over Townsville Heat 96:88 at the Kev Broome Stadium as Zac Carter poured in 24 points. Chris Cedar (185-G-88) responded with 37 points in the losing effort. On Sunday Brisbane Capitals lost to Mackay Meteors 62:90, Rockhampton Rockets beat Townsville Heat 85:78 and Gold Coast Goannas overcame Caboolture Suns 73:63.

In SEABL Canberra was beaten by Kilsyth 65:104, while the latter also beat AIS 79:56. Brisbane overcame Nunawading 99:74 and Knox defeated Hobart 97:71. CJ Massingale (191-G-82, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Metro St.) exploded with 28 points and 11 rebounds, while Michael Hill posted 21. Anthony Stewart (196-G-70) replied with 18 points in the losing effort. Ballarat outscored Dandenong 81:78, while Bendigo smashed NW Tasmania 122:83. On Sunday Dandenong cruised past Hobart 98:82.

In Central ABL Norwood Flames beat Forestville Eagles 80:71, while Sturt Sabres lost to North Adelaide Rockets 74:81. West Adelaide Bearcats defeated Southern Tigers 89:71 at the Port Adelaide. Woodville Warriors lost to Eastern Mavericks 70:78 and in the only game on Sunday South Adelaide Panthers defeated Central Districts Lions 84:67. Sammy Gazzo paced all the winners with 19 points and Lachlan Prest nailed 15. Tom Cioffi (197-F-87) ended up with 17 points in the losing effort.

Lakeside Lightning and Geraldton Buccaneers enjoy 12-3 records in SBL - by Eurobasket News
On Friday Perth Redbacks defeated Wanneroo Wolves at the Belmont Oasis 116:83 , while Lakeside Lightning beat Willetton Tigers 104:93. Perry Lakes Hawks overcame East Perth Eagles 109:105 as Peter Crawford (193-G-79) stepped up with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Robert Kempf and Ben Purser followed him with 22 points each in a win. Stephen Weigh (198-G/F-87) replied with 29 points, whilst Tom Jervis had massive 22 points and 20 boards.
On Saturday Goldfields Giants rolled over Kalamunda Eastern Suns 102:83 at the Neils Hansen Basketball Stadium. The winners started with 27-23 lead, however lost the second period 16-25. Due to the enormous wins in the third and the last periods, the Giants managed to win the game. Matthew Leske (196-F-82) paced all the winners with 24 points and Ryan Hulme nailed 23. Justin Brown (213-C-80, college: Connecticut) replied with 22 points in the losing case.
Geraldton Buccaneers edged Southwest Slammers 116:90 and Wanneroo Wolves lost to Mandurah Magic at the Joondalup Basketball Stadium 97:109. East Perth Eagles were beaten by Lakeside Lightning 76:85, while Cockburn Cougars lost to Perth Redbacks 101:116. Perry Lakes Hawks crusised past Stirling Senators 111:90 and Willetton Tigers smashed Rockingham Flames 117:88. Daniel Johnson (212-C-88, college: Pepperdine) led the way with 23 points, while Cameron Tovey sored 17. Demetrius Hazel delivered 28 points in the losing effort.

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AUSTRIA

Eurobasket.com All-Austrian Bundesliga Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Houston

Mayes

Boylan

Penigar

Colwell

Player of the Year: Kevin Houston (194-G/F-76) of Arkadia
Guard of the Year: Kevin Houston (194-G/F-76) of Arkadia
Forward of the Year: Desmond Penigar (201-F-81) of Furstenfeld
Center of the Year: Shelton Colwell (202-F-80) of Furstenfeld
Newcomer of the Year: Anton Maresch (191-G-91) of UBSC Graz
Most Improved: Enis Murati (195-F-88) of Gmunden
Bosman Player of the Year: Vilmantas Dilys (208-F-87) of Arkadia
Import Player of the Year: Kevin Houston (194-G/F-76) of Arkadia
Domestic Player of the Year: Christoph Nagler (194-G-84) of Klosterneub.
Defensive Player of the Year: Ian Boylan (197-G/F-83) of Gmunden
Coach of the Year: Matthias Fischer of Gmunden

1st Team
G: Deteri Mayes (189-74) of Gmunden
G/F: Ian Boylan (197-83) of Gmunden
G/F: Kevin Houston (194-76) of Arkadia
F: Desmond Penigar (201-81) of Furstenfeld
F: Shelton Colwell (202-80) of Furstenfeld

2nd Team
G: Ricky Moore (189-76) of Wels
G: Jasmon Youngblood (195-84) of Furstenfeld
G/F: Terrence Roderick (195-88) of Arkadia
F: Davor Lamesic (205-83) of Wels
C: Heinz Kugerl (211-86) of Kapfenberg

Honorable Mention
Shawn Ray (194-F-80) of Furstenfeld
Nathaniel Linhart (201-F-86) of Furstenfeld
Jean Francois (197-F-80) of Gussing
Trenton Meacham (188-G-85) of Wels
Dan Oppland (203-F-84) of Gmunden
Marcus Heard (201-F-84) of Gussing
Dorde Drenovac (197-F-92) of Arkadia
Thomas Schreiner (195-G-87) of St.Polten

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Benedikt Danek (174-86) of Arkadia
G: Armin Woschank (184-82) of Kapfenberg
G: Christoph Nagler (194-84) of Klosterneub.
F: Davor Lamesic (205-83) of Wels
C: Heinz Kugerl (211-86) of Kapfenberg

All-Imports Team
G/F: Terrence Roderick (195-88) of Arkadia
G/F: Ian Boylan (197-83) of Gmunden
G/F: Kevin Houston (194-76) of Arkadia
F: Desmond Penigar (201-81) of Furstenfeld
F: Shelton Colwell (202-80) of Furstenfeld

All-Bosmans Team
G: Damir Zeleznik (191-80) of UBSC Graz
F: Dorde Drenovac (197-92) of Arkadia
C/F: Tilo Klette (205-77) of Wels
F: Vilmantas Dilys (208-87) of Arkadia
F/C: Ramiz Suljanovic (206-79) of Klosterneub.

All-Defensive Team
Ricky Moore (189-G-76) of Wels
Nathaniel Linhart (201-F-86) of Furstenfeld
Ian Boylan (197-G/F-83) of Gmunden
Shawn Ray (194-F-80) of Furstenfeld
Shelton Colwell (202-F-80) of Furstenfeld

All-Newcomers Team
Anton Maresch (191-G-91) of UBSC Graz
Thomas Klepeisz (185-G-91) of Gussing
Enis Murati (195-F-88) of Gmunden
Richard Poiger (206-F-87) of St.Polten
Erik Fruhwirth (204-C-91) of Oberwart

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BAHRAIN

Manama back in league finals - by Patrick Salomon
MANAMA are headed back to the Zain Bahrain Basketball League finals.
The 16-time champions, who last won the national title in 2006, booked their slot Monday night following an 89-70 statement victory over bitter rivals Muharraq at Zain Basketball Arena in Um Al Hassam.
The win secured their two-game sweep of their best-of-three Golden Square semi-final series, and avenged their defeat to Muharraq last month in the Zain Cup finals, which went the maximum three games.
Court general Ahmed Abdulaziz and American professional Calvin Warner combined for more than half of Manamas scoring yesterday, pouring in 49 points between them to lead the victors.
Veteran forward Mahmood Ghuloom chipped in with 16 including some key baskets in the final quarter, when Manama outscored their rivals 32-13 to blow a close game wide open.
Guard Hani Alam played a key defensive role in the game for Manama, holding Muharraqs star scorer Mohammed Hassan to an uncharacteristic five-for-16 shooting. Hassans frustrations later led to his ejection in the fourth after picking up two successive technical fouls for arguing with a referee.
Twelve-year NBA veteran Lamond Murray from the US scored 24 to pace Muharraq in defeat.
Manama now await the winner of the other final four series between defending champions Al Ahli and gritty Al Hala. They are tied 1-1, with the third and decisive game scheduled for Thursday. The best-of-five finals has yet to be scheduled by the Bahrain Basketball Association.
This win really means a lot to our team and to our fans, Abdulaziz told the GDN during on-court celebrations.
We havent been in the league finals two years now, and its been three years since we won the championship, Abdulaziz added. Now, were back to where we want to be and hopefully we can continue to play well and keep winning.
The under-20 national team captain had a game-high 25 points for Manama, including 14 in the fourth. He was later named the Player of the Game.
After a Ghuloom triple made it 76-70 with under four minutes to go in the final period, Abdulaziz scored five straight points, including three from the charity stripe following Hassans dismissal with two minutes to play.
Hassans ejection sparked a momentary fracas from fans, with objects being thrown onto the playing court including a pair of leather slippers.
Ghuloom added another pair of free-throws to make it 83-70, and at this point, Muharraq appeared to have thrown in the towel, substituting three of their key players.
Manama, however, were not done, and they continued to pressure the uninterested Muharraq offence, forcing a couple of turnovers which led to back-to-back three-pointers from Abdulaziz who seemed intent on rubbing salt into Muharraqs wounds.
The lopsided fourth quarter was a completely different affair to the tightly contested third, which featured three ties and nine lead-changes, and which ended at 59-apiece.
Muharraq were the games aggressors early on, leading 20-16 after the first quarter before Manama took a slim 35-34 edge into the half.
Our team played hard this game, we knew it would be tough, and Im happy with the way we responded, Manama head coach Ebrahim Abdulhameed said. Now we wait for our opponents in the final; be it Ahli or Hala, we will be ready.

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BARBADOS

Lakers grind past Warriors for ninth win - by Justin Marville
NO KOBE BRYANT. No Phil Jackson. No Pau Gasol.

These Lakers have no losses either.

Premier League basketball's unbeaten leaders Lumber Company Lakers kept their run at perfection alive, overcoming a season-low 55 points by containing rivals First Works Warriors to just 25 percent from the floor for their ninth win in Saturday's 55-44 defensive grind at the YMCA.

It wasn't the most aesthetic of performances from the usually proficient Husbands men, who were forced to survive a woeful 18 of 54 shooting effort that included just one made field goal in the entire third quarter.

But the Lakers will settle for perfect over pretty every time, especially against an old adversary known for turning contests into basketball's version of physical warfare.

And it was the Dayrells Road side that actually fared worse in the defensive tussle while missing three quarters of their 67 attempts from the floor and 13 foul shots out of a total 20.

They didn't do themselves any additional favours during Lakers dreadful third quarter either, with former MVP Corey McDonald wasting a prime opportunity to finally turn around his side's offensive futility.

The league leaders led by as many as ten points (29-19) two minutes into that period, having constrained Warriors to just eight points in the second, and seemed certain of blowing the contest wide open.

However, Lakers' bench was blown for a subsequent technical, swinging the momentum clearly in their opponents' favour when they surrendered five unanswered points.

But McDonald all but squashed that rally after picking up a needless technical of his own, forcing him to the bench with foul trouble and thus leaving Warriors without their best offensive player for the rest of the quarter.

And Adrian Allman swiftly took advantage, scoring six free throws in succession to offset his teams woes from the field and restore the double-digit margin (38-28).

Lakers lead went up to as much as 12 (44-32) on consecutive baskets from Allman early in the fourth before Warriors threatened to rally once again when McDonald returned midway through the period.

Kareem Farrell hit a clutch triple plus another basket to sandwich a tough lay-up by Tremaine Shaw, before Tremaines older brother, Kirk, sank a three as well in reducing the deficit to just five (49-44) with 1:10 remaining.

It was the return of another veteran that decided this contest though, as Lakers point guard Derek Browne subsequently checked off the bench for a driving lay-up to end the run while Keefe Birkett and Ormond Haynes combined for four points to finish the scoring.

Allman ended with 12 points and Birkett added 11 while Kirk Shaw top-scored for Warriors with 11 points as well.

Earlier, Patriots went on 24-16 third quarter run before Anthony Bill White had 12 of his game high 23 points in the fourth, as the St James side overcame an early double digit deficit to beat Sagicor Tridents 82-66.

It was the fourth win in five games for the Patriots, who also got 20 points and 14 rebounds from impressive rookie Julian Walcott and a further 18 points from Rawle Conway.

Daniel Lovell led Tridents with 17 points, Nicholai Williams had 13 while Justin Maloney and Akeem Williams had ten points apiece.

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BELIZE

Aubrey Lopez will be missed by the Belizean Basketball Family!!! - by David Magana
The Belize Basketball Federation mourns the untimely death of an outstanding basketball player, coach, teacher and community leaderAubrey Lopez. The federation extends its condolences to Aubreys family, friends, teammates and the students he taught. Aubrey was a shining star in the basketball arena. He was a past member of the Belize National Basketball team in several categories that represented Belize in international games. He played in the National Under 17 and Mens Basketball teams and was involved at all levels of basketballas a player, coach and a camp organizer. Aubrey was the captain of the Belmopan Bandits Basketball that is currently in first place in the Belize District basketball league. The entire basketball community will sadly miss him.

Press release BBF

Aubrey Lopez will be missed by the Belizean Basketball Family!!! - by David Magana
The Belize Basketball Federation mourns the untimely death of an outstanding basketball player, coach, teacher and community leaderAubrey Lopez. The federation extends its condolences to Aubreys family, friends, teammates and the students he taught. Aubrey was a shining star in the basketball arena. He was a past member of the Belize National Basketball team in several categories that represented Belize in international games. He played in the National Under 17 and Mens Basketball teams and was involved at all levels of basketballas a player, coach and a camp organizer. Aubrey was the captain of the Belmopan Bandits Basketball that is currently in first place in the Belize District basketball league. The entire basketball community will sadly miss him.

Press release
Paul Thompson
BBF President

Aubrey Lopez will be missed by the Belizean Basketball Family!!! - by David Magana
The Belize Basketball Federation mourns the untimely death of an outstanding basketball player, coach, teacher and community leader Aubrey Lopez (188-G). The federation extends its condolences to Aubreys family, friends, teammates and the students he taught. Aubrey was a shining star in the basketball arena. He was a past member of the Belize National Basketball team in several categories that represented Belize in international games. He played in the National Under 17 and Mens Basketball teams and was involved at all levels of basketballas a player, coach and a camp organizer. Aubrey was the captain of the Belmopan Bandits Basketball that is currently in first place in the Belize District basketball league. The entire basketball community will sadly miss him.
Press release
Paul Thompson
BBF President

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BOSNIA

Eurobasket.com All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Mason

Kojadinovic

Zujovic

Rakocevic

Massie

Player of the Year: Chester Mason (192-G-81) of Siroki TT
Guard of the Year: Chester Mason (192-G-81) of Siroki TT
Forward of the Year: Vladimir Zujovic (201-F/G-80) of Igokea
Center of the Year: Christophe Massie (206-F-77) of Igokea
Newcomer of the Year: Nebojsa Andelic (198-G/F-91) of Slavija
Most Improved Player of the Year: Jozo Brkic (211-F/C-86) of Capljina
Import Player of the Year: Chester Mason (192-G-81) of Siroki TT
Domestic Player of the Year: Feliks Kojadinovic (197-G-79) of Bosna S.
Defensive Player of the Year: Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) of Bosna S.
Coach of the Year: Ante Nazor of Capljina

1st Team
G: Feliks Kojadinovic (197-79) of Bosna S.
G: Chester Mason (192-81) of Siroki TT
F/G: Vladimir Zujovic (201-80) of Igokea
F: Zarko Rakocevic (204-84) of Bosna S.
F: Christophe Massie (206-77) of Igokea

2nd Team
F/C: Ivan Grgat (210-74) of Siroki TT
G/F: Suad Sehovic (197-87) of Bosna S.
G: Jovan Zdravkovic (178-78) of Capljina
G: Dalibor Persic (193-85) of Sloboda Dita
C/F: Marko Djurkovic (205-87) of Igokea

Honorable Mention
LaVell Blanchard (201-G-81) of Igokea
Filip Adamovic (184-G-88) of Sloboda Dita
Sinisa Stemberger (195-G-79) of Siroki TT
Ivan Bakovic (197-G-81) of Capljina
Armin Avdibegovic (189-G-84) of Celik
Hrvoje Puljko (193-G-83) of Siroki TT
Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) of Siroki TT

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Feliks Kojadinovic (197-79) of Bosna S.
G: Dalibor Persic (193-85) of Sloboda Dita
G: Filip Adamovic (184-88) of Sloboda Dita
G/F: Suad Sehovic (197-87) of Bosna S.
C/F: Marko Djurkovic (205-87) of Igokea

All-Imports Team * includes also Bosmans
G: Chester Mason (192-G-81) of Siroki TT
G: Sinisa Stemberger (195-79) of Siroki TT
F/G: Vladimir Zujovic (201-80) of Igokea
F: Zarko Rakocevic (204-84) of Bosna S.
F/C: Ivan Grgat (210-74) of Siroki TT

All-Defensive Team
Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) of Bosna S.
Dalibor Persic (193-G-85) of Sloboda Dita
Christophe Massie (206-F-77) of Igokea
Chester Mason (192-G-81) of Siroki TT
Sinisa Stemberger (195-G-79) of Siroki TT

All-Newcomers Team
Nebojsa Andelic (198-G/F-91) of Slavija
Marko Djurkovic (205-C/F-87) of Igokea
Irfan Hodzic (93) of Sloboda Dita
Mirza Bulic () of Sloboda Dita
Emir Besovic (208-C-90) of Slavija

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BULGARIA

Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Antic

Harper

Bozov

Cole

Brown

Player of the Year: Pero Antic (210-F-82) of Lukoil A.
Guard of the Year: Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81) of Levski * plays at both shooting guard and small forward positions
Forward of the Year: Pero Antic (210-F-82) of Lukoil A.
Center of the Year: Donald Cole (204-C-81) of Levski
Bosman Player of the Year: Pero Antic (210-F-82) of Lukoil A. * naturalized Macedonian
Import Player of the Year: Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81) of Levski
Domestic Player of the Year: Jordan Bozov (191-G-79) of Balkan
Defensive Player of the Year: Bruce Brown (213-C-83) of Chernomorets
Coach of the Year: Petar Klechkov of Balkan

1st Team
G/F: Aaron Harper (199-81) of Levski
G: Jordan Bozov (191-79) of Balkan
F: Pero Antic (210-82) of Lukoil A.
C: Donald Cole (204-81) of Levski
C: Bruce Brown (213-83) of Chernomorets

2nd Team
G: Willie Deane (186-80) of Lukoil A.
G: Aleksandar Gruev (187-83) of Rilski Sport
C/F: Stefan Georgiev (206-78) of Levski
C: Travis Peterson (208-85) of Rilski Sport
C: Slavko Stefanovic (206-81) of Lukoil A.

Honorable Mention
Atanas Radev (200-F-81) of Balkan
Eric Webb (188-G-84) of Cherno More
Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74) of Cherno More
Dwayne Morton (200-F-71) of Chernomorets
Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) of Balkan
Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88) of Lukoil A.
Todor Stoykov (198-G/F-77) of Lukoil A.
Bobby Frasor (191-G-86) of Levski

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Jordan Bozov (191-79) of Balkan
G: Aleksandar Gruev (187-83) of Rilski Sport
G/F: Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-74) of Cherno More
F: Atanas Radev (200-81) of Balkan
C/F: Stefan Georgiev (206-78) of Levski

All-Imports Team
G/F: Aaron Harper (199-81) of Levski
G: Willie Deane (186-80) of Lukoil A. * American, in May 2010 received Bulgarian citizenship
C: Bruce Brown (213-83) of Chernomorets
C: Donald Cole (204-81) of Levski
C: Travis Peterson (208-85) of Rilski Sport

All-Bosmans Team
G: Branko Mirkovic (185-82) of Lukoil A.
G: Dimitar Mirakovski (180-81) of Cherno More
F: Pero Antic (210-82) of Lukoil A.
F/C: Gjorgji Cekovski (202-81) of Levski
C: Slavko Stefanovic (206-81) of Lukoil A.

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CHILE

Concepcion wins Copa Penaloen - by Gianni Pascucci
Universidad de Concepcion claimed the first trophy of the ANBP season by deefating, 69-57Universidad Catolica in the Final of 'Copa Penaloen'. Concepcion team was led by a banner performence from Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83) who scored 22 points and was also the Tournemant top scorer at 45. Matias Villagran (198-C-88) added 21 at the wijnning side, Felipe Contreras (183-G-81) scored 15 pts in losing effort. The third place went to Liceo Mixto, winner over Espanol de Talca 79-63 in teh 'Little Final'. The day before, Universidad Catolica had defeated Liceo Mixto por 62-54, and Universidad de Concepcion had triumphed over Espanol de Talca, 91-73.

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DENMARK

CDL market news - by Thomas Soltau

Aabyhoej recently announced that the contract with head coach Allan Foss has been renewed. The team exceeded expectations this year, and the club is very happy to have the former men's national team coach back next season.

Also in Aarhus the Bakken Bears have informed the Danish basketball community that their head coach Mads Sigersted will no longer lead the Bears.

At lot of rumors about players have flourished, but only very little have been made official.

Horsens has resigned Danes Hans Schur (203-F/C-83, college: Lynn) and Christian Lindberg (195-F-83).

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D-LEAGUE

D-Fenders, Lakers' minor league affiliate, will take one-year hiatus - by Eurobasket News
The Lakers' minor league affiliate, the Los Angeles D-Fenders, will take a one-year hiatus and will no longer use Staples Center as its home base, The Times has learned.

Lakers owner Jerry Buss will retain ownership of the D-Fenders, who are expected to reemerge at a different Southern California venue for the 2011-12 season.

Buss bought the team in July 2006 to try to create a legitimate feeder team for the Lakers, but the D-Fenders generated no revenue from ticket sales because the only people allowed to attend their home games were those who bought tickets to Lakers home games.

D-Fenders games at Staples Center typically started four hours before a Lakers game, often in front of crowds of fewer than 100 people, though Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak often was among the spectators.

'When we got into the D-League, we took full advantage of the basketball opportunities,' said D-Fenders Chief Executive Joey Buss, one of Jerry Buss ' sons. 'We want to take time to look at how we can maximize the investment on the business side as well. The goal is to bring them back for the 2011-12 season.'

The Lakers made occasional use of the D-Fenders after they began playing in November 2006, though nothing close to the relationship between a major league baseball team and its triple-A affiliate.

The Lakers did not have any players spend time on the D-Fenders' roster this season, though in past years, Jordan Farmar, Coby Karl and Sun Yue had brief stints with the team after being sent down by the Lakers.

It is unclear which Development League team the Lakers will use next season, though they probably will share a club with two or three other NBA teams.

The D-Fenders were last in the West Conference last season, finishing with the second-worst record (16-34) among the 16 Development League teams.

'We will support them over the next year and look forward to having them back in 2011-12,' Development League President Dan Reed said.

Salaries for D-League players range from $12,000 to $24,000, with the NBA paying a portion of the salaries.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

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EUROCUP

Neven Spahija and Valenca part ways - by Eurobasket News
Neven Spahija and Valencia parted ways today. According to rumors, the coach wants to move to some other club with bigger ambitions. It means that Valencia will immediately start search for the new Head Coach who will lead the team in Euroleague next season.
Neven Spahija arrived to Valencia in November 2008. He replaced Greek coach Fotis Katsikaris (agency: FCM ). This year Valencia won the EuroCup and finished fourth in ACB regular season. Unicaja stopped them in the Quarterfinals with 0-2.
Neven Spahija is the winner of 'Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Coach of the Year -10'.

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FRANCE

Eurobasket.com All-French N1 Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Atamna

Blair

Minet

Adell

Bestron

Player of the Year: Karim Atamna (194-F-80) of Reims
Guard of the Year: Larry Blair (183-G-84) of Denek
Forward of the Year: Karim Atamna (194-F-80) of Reims
Center of the Year: Julien Bestron (204-C-86) of Reims
Bosman Player of the Year: Klemensas Patiejunas (186-G-77) of Boulogne
Import Player of the Year: Larry Blair (183-G-84) of Denek
Domestic Player of the Year: Karim Atamna (194-F-80) of Reims
Defensive Player of the Year: Leo Westermann (198-G-92) of CFBB
Coach of the Year: Jean-Michel Senegal of Le Puy

1st Team
G: Larry Blair (183-84) of Denek
G: Frederic Minet (187-81) of Denain
F: Karim Atamna (194-80) of Reims
F: Sanjay Adell (200-77) of Lievin
C: Julien Bestron (204-86) of Reims

2nd Team
G: Klemensas Patiejunas (186-77) of Boulogne
F: Ronald Yates (201-83) of Boulogne
F/C: Mathieu Boutry (201-78) of Challans
C: Aba Koita (206-77) of Le Puy
C: John Torson (208-85) of Denain

Honorable Mention
Andre Harris (201-F/C-85) of St Etienne
Julien Lesieu (199-F-83) of St Quentin
Etienne Plateau (187-G-86) of Boulogne
Marc Axton (201-F-83) of Reims
Anthony Christophe (189-G-83) of Reims
Travarus Bennett (202-F-79) of Le Puy
Gabriel Kennedy (205-F/C-81) of Chalons
Leo Westermann (198-G-92) of CFBB
Slobodan Ocokoljic (204-F-80) of Cognac

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Frederic Minet (187-81) of Denain
G: Anthony Christophe (189-83) of Reims
F: Karim Atamna (194-80) of Reims
F/C: Mathieu Boutry (201-78) of Challans
C: Julien Bestron (204-86) of Reims

All-Imports Team
G: Larry Blair (183-84) of Denek
F: Ronald Yates (201-83) of Boulogne
F: Sanjay Adell (200-77) of Lievin
F/C: Andre Harris (201-85) of St Etienne
C: John Torson (208-85) of Denain

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GERMANY

Quentin Pryor (Phoenix Hagen) BEKO BBL Semi Final Playoff Predictions - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Quentin Pryor (193-G/F-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Morehead St.) is a 25 year old 193cm shooting guard/small forward from Eupora, Mississippi and is playing his second season with Phoenix Hagen. He started his college basketball career at Jackson State, before finishing at Morehead State from 2005-2007. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging11.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3Pts: 36.8%, FT: 71.7%. In 2007, he started his professional basketball career in Germany with FC Schalke 04 playing 29 games and averaging 15.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 75.2%. Last season for Phoenix Hagen, he played 30 games averaging 14.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 75.2%. This season, he is averaging 7,6ppg, 2,9rpg, 1,4apg and has scored in double figures in six agmes. He spoke to eurobasket about the 2010 BEKO BBL Semi Final pairings.

How is your summer going?

My summer is going great so far. I just started working out for next season and I am expecting my second child in about 3 weeks.

Were you surprised that Braunschweig beat Oldenburg 3-1?

I was very surprised at Braunschweig winning the series the way they did. I really thought that Oldenburg would come out on top. Braunschweig is very talented team and they are a solid 8 seed.

Were you surprised that Frankfurt upset Alba Berlin 3-1?

The Berlin-Frankfurt series was surprising also because I thought bringing in a new coach that late in the season would hurt them. Looks they had a great game plan for the series and executed it well.

Why was BG Goettingen unable to get past Bremerhaven?

I think that Bremerhaven was not the team that Goettingen wanted to see because they matched up with them well. I figured going back to Goettingen they would win the series but they didn't make the plays to close out the game down the stretch.

What kind of series can we expect between Frankfurt and Bremerhaven?

This should be a good series. I think Bremerhaven has enough motivation for this series because of how they lost in the Cup game. It will be good match-ups all over the floor.

Who will win this series and why?

This is a tough series to predict because the teams match up good. I would give the edge to Bremerhaven because of the homecourt advantage.

What kind of series can we expect with Bamberg-Braunschweig?

This will be a grind out type of series because teams are solid on the defensive end. Bamberg is rolling and Braunschweig has a lot of momentum.

Who will win the series and why?

I think Bamberg will win the series. They are playing good basketball right now.

Do Orlando and Phoenix have any chance of winning their series?

Both of those teams are done. Lakers-Celtics again!!!
Thanks Quentin for the chat.

Bundesliga Playoff results Monday May 24th: Bamberg Beats Braunschweig for 1-0 Semifinal Lead! - by Michael Taylor
2010 Beko Basketball Bundesliga Playoffs SemiFinals

Monday May 24th

brose Baskets Bamberg 86 NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig 77

(Bamberg leads Series 1-0)

Casey Jacobsen scored 18pts leading five players in double figures as brose Baskets Bamberg beat NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig 86-77 in Game 1 of their 2010 Beko Basketball Bundesliga Semifinal series played Monday afternoon at JAKO Arena in Bamberg. Along with Jacobsen's excellent performance, Predrag Suput's early spark led to 16pt 8reb 6ast,Elton Brown added 13pt 4reb, Mark Worthington chipped in 11pt 4reb and Tibor Pleiss 10 in the win.

Tipping off their exciting 2010 Bundesliga SemiFinal Series, NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig visited JAKO Arena for Game 1 against brose Baskets Bamberg in the second game of a Live DSF TV double header on a holiday Monday in Germany. The enthusiastic Bamberg fans brought tremendous energy to JAKO Arena demonstrating what 'Freak City' is all about.

brose Baskets Bamberg took control early. Predrag Suput put Bamberg up early before Casey Jacobsen scored, hit a 3 and scored again for seven straight points and a 9-0 lead. Suput got another basket before Yassin Idbihi's tip in with 6:46 on the clock got Braunschweig on the board. Suput responded with another score for Bamberg and Kevin Hamilton added a bucket for Braunschweig. It was Suput again lifting Bamberg to a 15-4 lead at the 5min mark. Marcus Goree tipped in two and John Allen added 1FT bringing the Phantoms to 15-7 with 4min in the 1Q. Predrag Suput continued his strong start with 2FT before a John Allen bucket brought the game to 17-9. Bamberg continued to attack as Casey Jacobsen scored, Brian Roberts hit a 3 and Elton Brown sank 2FT for a fast 7-0 run giving the hosts a 24-9 lead into the last minute. A 3 from Tomasz Cielebak helped the Phantoms but Bamberg's Mark Worthington converted 2FT closing the 1Q. Bamberg raced to a 26-12 lead.

Q2 opened with 5 straight Michael Hicks points as he scored then hit a 3. But Bamberg had the answer as Elton Brown scored and Mark Worthington buried a 3. Bamberg maintained a 31-17 lead. Cielebak got a dunk for the Phantoms but Bamberg's Brian Roberts responded with a 3. Marcus Goree sank a 3 for Braunschweig and Elton Brown answered with a score. Bamberg led 36-22 at the 7min mark. Cielebak finished a tip in, Casey Jacobsen sank 1FT and Michael Hicks brought Braunschweig to 37-26 at the 5min mark. Jacobsen added another FT before Hicks scored again. Bamberg Head coach Chris Fleming took a timeout with a 38-28 lead. Out of the timeout, Tibor Pleiss made his presence felt scoring and then dunking pushing Bamberg to a 42-28 lead. Yassin Idbihi made 1FT before Predrag Suput pushed the hosts up 44-29. Nils Mittmann finished a 3pt play before 2 more Casey Jacobsen FT. The Phantoms Heiko Schaffartzik was fouled shooting a 3 and cooly sank 3 straight from the foul line. But Bamberg built on their lead with another Tibor Pleiss dunk and another Predrag Suput score. The hosts led 50-35 as the final minute of the 1H ticked down. A Marcus Goree late 3 gave the Phantoms some life, but Bamberg took a strong 50-38 lead into the halftime lockerroom. Opening their playoff series with focus, Bamberg shot a sizzling 70% from the floor in the first half hitting 4 of 8 threes and 10 of 16 from the foul line.

in the 3Q, with a Tibor Pleiss alley oop slam for Bamberg. Casey Jacobsen scored lifting Bamberg to a 54-38 lead. Jason Cain got the Phantoms going with a dunk with just under 7min in the 3rd and Heiko Schaffartzik followed with a 3 pulling Braunschweig to 54-43. Bamberg called a timeout. Anton Gavel drilled a 3 for Bamberg rebuilding their advantage to 57-43. Yassin Idbihi scored off a feed from Schaffartzik before another Tibor Pleiss dunk for Bamberg. Idbihi slammed home 2 for the Phantoms with just under 4min in the 3Q but Anton Gavel buried another 3 pushing Bamberg to 62-47 with 3:26 left. Casey Jacobsen sank 1FT for Bamberg before a John Allen basket for Braunschweig. Heiko Schaffartzik's score brought Braunschweig within 63-51 with 2min remaining. John Allen continued the comeback for the Phantoms with a basket bringing Braunschweig's deficit to 10, 63-53 with 1:23. Elton Brown made 1FT for Bamberg with 56sec in the 3rd and Mark Worthington nailed a late 3 lifting the hosts to a 67-53 lead after 3.

The 4Q opened with Elton Brown and Michael Hicks exchanging baskets. Mark Worthington added 1FT. A Tomasz Cielebak score brought Braunschweig to 70-57 at the 8min mark. A Kevin Hamilton three point play brought Braunschweig to 70-60 with 7:37. Elton Brown countered for Bamberg with back to back baskets. Braunschweig head coach Sebastian Machowski called a timeout with 6:30 to play. Marcus Goree sank 2FT for the Phantoms but Mark Worthington replied for Bamberg. John Allens basket pulled Braunschweig to 76-64 at the 5min mark. Kevin Hamilton scored and a Yassin Idbihi basket cut the deficit to 76-68. Bamberg used a timeout up 8 with 3:20 to play. Out of the timeout, Anton Gavel drilled a big 3 at the 3min mark. Yassin Idbihi kept pace for the Phantoms. A Predrag Suput basket extended the Bamberg lead to 81-70 with 1:55 to go. A big 3 followed from the Phantoms Heiko Schaffartzik trimming the score to 81-73 with 1:50 left. But a late turnover and offensive foul forced the Phantoms into the fouling game. John Goldsberry made 2FT with 48 sec before Heiko Schaffartzik sank 2 FT for the Phantoms with 42sec left. Brian Roberts made 1 of 2FT before a Michael Hicks basket with 34sec making it 84-77. After 2FT misses for Bamberg and a missed 3 from the Phantoms, Casey Jacobsen put the finishing touches on the exciting 86-77 Game 1 Bamberg win.

Bamberg shot 53% from the floor making 8 of 20 threes (40%) and 18 of 30 FT (60%) while Braunschweig hit 49% of their shots including 6 of 20 threes (30%) and 11 of 16 FT (68%) . Both teams grabbed 31 rebounds. Bamberg dished out 17 assists to 9 turnovers while Braunschweig suffered 14turnovers in the loss. Heiko Schaffartzik and Michael Hicks scored 13pt apiece for the Phantoms while Yassin Idbihi added 11 and Marcus Goree 10.

Game 2 in this exciting 2010 Beko Basketball Bundesliga Semifinal series is set for Wednesday May 26th tipping off 6:10pm at Volkswagonarena in Braunschweig.

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Freeze The Court As The Deutsche Bank Skyliners Slip In Game One 75-58 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven didnt find a four leaf clover on the court, need Rickey Paulding in disguise as he was in attendance need a last second Andrew Drevo (202-F/C-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Nebraska) winning shot, have the luck of the green machine Boston Celtics in the playoffs, the fortune of the Philadelphia Flyers coming back from 0-3 back to win 4-3 in games against The Boston Bruins which only 4 teams have done in the history of American sports or having the luck that German goalie Manuel Neuer had getting the starting goalie job for The German national team as Rene Adler suffered an injury as the team of coach Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops ) showed a spirited and controlled effort sending The Deutsche Bank Skyliners home with a 75-56 loss. Frankfurt trail 1-0 in the BEKO BBL Semi Final playoffs against The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven and might have had to witness an extra portion of Bremerhaven energy after their sensational game five win in Goettingen Friday night. 'We should have been more tired after the game 5 in Goettingen, but we took force from that win into this game. We had a lot of self confidence and had a lot of adrenaline in this game. Nobody wanted to loose and we just wanted it more', sressed Eisbaeren Bremerhaven manager Jan Rathjen .

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners never found their rhythm and except for two lead changes were always looking back as the Eisbaeren were waddling over the ice with elegance and fierceness. 'Bremerhaven had a big start and had so much energy. We were never able to match their intensity. They hit big shots and we didnt shoot well', explained Skyliner forward Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). Bremerhaven only allowed Frankfurt to score 58 points as they had problems with their defense all afternoon long. 'We defended the pick and role of Frankfurt very well, rebounded well and just did a good job doing our game plan', commented Bremerhaven guard Jan Lipke

(193-G-83, agency: Court Side). Frankfurt werent able to find to their game, but didnt want to underscore the performance of the Eisbaeren. 'They played real well, hit their shots and anything we did, it didnt really work', added Skyliner guard Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri).

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners entered the Bremerhaven court and in the first few minutes looked more like a tired Saint Bernard that had not gotten any vacation after days of hard labor on a mountain instead of a fresh and quick panther as they got tied up on the court as Bremerhaven went on a 12-2 run. Frankfurt was getting beat badly inside as Jeff Gibbs

(188-F-80, college: Otterbein)s started the scoring onslaught getting two offensive rebounds and getting a lay in. More baskets inside followed by Louis Campbell (190-G-79, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Buffalo) Philipp Schwethelm

(201-F-89, agency: Court Side) and Torrell Martin (196-G/F-85, agency: 540 Sports, college: Winthrop). Frankfurt slowly was able to get in to the game as Derrick Allen

(203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) scored inside twice and Greg Jenkins

(206-F/C-82, college: Iona) scored twice with lay ins. However just as Frankfurt seemed to be making a move to get back into the game, Bremerhaven always found some weapon who damaged Frankfurt with his scoring. After 10 minutes, The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were leading 22-15 after one quarter and looked very much in control. 'They took a big 12-2 lead. This is something that cant happen in a playoff game. We hit a dry spell not making any shots', expressed Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 44% from the field and 38% from outside. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners 38% from the field and only 0 from outside. Bremerhaven had the clear edge with the rebounds 14-6 and had three turnovers while Frankfurt only one.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners left the embarrassing first quarter behind them as they blasted out on an 8-0 run to take the lead 24- 23. Greg Jenkins

(206-F/C-82, college: Iona) who had a good start in the first quarter continued his hot play scoring inside after getting a no look pass from Grayson Moyer (196-G-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Humboldt St.) Skyliner captain Pascal Roller

(180-G-76) has been kind of a disappointment in the Alba Berlin series as he only averaged 3,0ppg. However in the shortest time, he displayed how strong he can be as he netted two three pointers as Frankfurt retook the lead 23-22 which was short lived as both teams traded baskets and leads as Jeff Gibbs

(188-F-80, college: Otterbein)ss scored inside falling to his right and Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.) dropped a three pointer for the 26-24 led. As quickly as Frankfurt had taken the lead, they as rapidly lost the lead and allowed Bremerhaven to finish the second quarter on a 15-7 lead leading 41-31. Bremerhaven now had a strong phase where shots were falling as ex Braunschweig forward Andrew Drevo (202-F/C-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Nebraska) netted two three pointers as Bremerhaven led 30-26. Jimmy McKinney who had the hot hand all day long made a three pointer cutting the Frankfurt lead to 30-29. Bremerhaven finished the second quarter with a 11-2 run. It didnt really matter what Bremerhaven did shooting wise on this day, it usually worked. Torrell Martin made a three pointer and Bryan Lucas

(203-F/C-78, college: N.Texas) made a lay in as The Eisbaeen Bremerhavrn led 41-31. 'We let up a bit on defense and had bad shot selections at the start', said Bremerhaven guard Jan Lipke

(193-G-83, agency: Court Side). 'We started making more shots in the second quarter and Pascal Roller

(180-G-76) hit some big three pointers', expressed Ohio Native Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 42% from the field and 35% from the three point line while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 39% from the field and 25% from the three point line. Bremerhaven was dominating the rebound fight 25-13. Frankfurt had five turnovers and Bremerhaven six.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners needed to come out in the third quarter with more intensity, but continued to have problems getting consecutive stops and playing longer phases on offense with consistency. Frankfurt was able to cut the Bremerhaven lead down to six points, but not less in the last 20 minutes. Mckinney was the only Frankfurt shooter that had the hot hand in the game 1 loss as he dropped a three pointer cutting the Bremerhaven lead to 43-34. However the Eisbaeren always found a way to score especially with the outside shooting of Andrew Drevo (202-F/C-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Nebraska) who seemed to always find a way to get free. After a Greg Jenkins

(206-F/C-82, college: Iona) tip in, it was Mckinney again who nailed a jumper from the corner cutting the Bremerhaven lead to 46-39. Whenever Frankfurt got closer, they either made big costly mistakes on defense or got the shorthand with loose balls. Drevo made a lay in as Doliboa was late coming over and Jeff Gibbs

(188-F-80, college: Otterbein)ss made a dunk as he was the classic cherry picker all of a sudden finding the ball in his hands all alone scoring. 'Bremerhaven outworked us. We really could of played better. They got all the hustle plays and 50/50 plays. The defensive pressure that we had against Alba Berlin was not there', warned Grayson Moyer

Bremerhaven also found ways to score on the penetration as Cambell either scored or dished the ball to teammates as Drevo was fed inside for the 53-40 lead. Mckinney had an answer with another three pointer cutting the lead to 53-43. Frankfurt gave up a 10-2 run in the last minutes and were trailing 63-45 after three quarters as the Eisbaeren fans were on their feet and the Frankfurt Skybembel fans looked and felt like a malnourished Eisbaer. Frankfurt continued to make turnovers and Drevo nailed a three pointer, Jan Lipke

(193-G-83, agency: Court Side) a lay in and Campbell and Lucas hit free throws. 'We executed well in the third quarter and pulled up our pants. We fought hard and were playing good defense', stated Jan Lipke

(193-G-83, agency: Court Side). 'Bremerhaven continued to play very well and we unable to slow down their game', commented Seth Doliboa (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.). The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven were shooting 43% from the field and 36% from the parking lot while The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were shooting 40% from the field and 33% from the parking lot. Bremerhaven continued to control the boards 33-24.Frankfurt had had a hard time with turnovers in the third quarter as their total rose to 11 while the Eisbaeren still had six.

In the fourth quarter, both teams scored less as Frankfurt won the quarter 13-12, which was too little to come back from 18 down. Frankfurt actually started hot going on a 6-2 run to cut the Bremerhaven lead to 65-51 as Greg Jenkins

(206-F/C-82, college: Iona) continued to be a beast under the boards scoring inside twice once getting a nice feed from Pascal Roller

(180-G-76). Jenkins also contributed on defense making a steal. After a Lipke lay in over Jenkins, Frankfurt had a little energy left in their tanks as they raced out on a 5-0 mini run as Mckinney kept his range sinking another three pointer and Derrick Allen

(203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) made a hook shot cutting the Bremerhaven lead to 67-56. However that was as close as Frankfurt would get as Bremerhaven finished the game with a 8-2 run as Jeff Gibbs

(188-F-80, college: Otterbein)ss hit a rare three pointer and a lay in. Skyliner big man Serb Dragan Labovic

(207-C/F-87) finished the scoring with a lay in off a fake shot pass from Grayson Moyer. ' We dominated the second half. I dont think that Frankfurt was tired. Our mix of zone/man on defense was giving them problems. This prevented them from finding their rhythm which led them more to individual plays', stressed Bremerhaven manager Jan Rathjen . 'We didnt play good team defense or rebound particulary well today. Also we went outside/in instead of inside/out. When you arent hitting your jumpers, then it is harder to go inside out', added Grayson Moyer

The Eisbaereen Bremerhaven were led by Jeff Gibbs

(188-F-80, college: Otterbein)ss and Andrew Drevo (202-F/C-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Nebraska) who both contributed with 19 points a piece. Torrell Martin chipped in with 12 points. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Jimmy McKinney with 18 points (5/7 3pt%). Greg Jenkins

(206-F/C-82, college: Iona) chipped in with 14 points and eight rebounds.

Two big reasons for the Frankfurt loss was the rebounding loss and the 19 turnovers. Bremerhaven always known for a scoring machine also showed that they are continuing to make strides on defense and becoming more of a complete team that can get the job done on both ends of the floor with efficiency and success. We defended very well holding a good offensive team like Frankfurt to 58 points. 'We also did a great job on the offensive boards getting 10 in the first half', added Jan Rathjen . Bremerhaven has the 1-0 lead and home court advantage, but the team wants to brake getting to much euphoric feelings into the series. 'We can go as far as we want. We dont want to look to far ahead. We have to stay on the ground and look from game to game. Frankfurt did not have their strongest day. They will be better in Frankfurt. Game 2 will be a real fight. Frankfurt will show more energy. But so will we', warned Jan Lipke

(193-G-83, agency: Court Side). The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have to win game 2 in Frankfurt and are not worried about the big game one loss. 'This was a disappointing loss, but it is not like we lost the series. We had a bad start into the series, but it doesnt matter if we lost by 30 points or one point, we have to analyse what we did wrong in game one. We know that we can play better. We will have to work the next days and make steps forward', stated Skyliner captain Pascal Roller

(180-G-76). The Deutsche Bank Skyliners host The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in game 2 May 27th at 18:00.

Bundesliga Semi-Finals: Brose Baskets and Bremerhaven win first games - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets - NY Phantoms 86-77
NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig visited JAKO Arena for Game 1 against Baskets Bamberg and lost 77:86. Casey Jacobsen

(198-G/F-81, college: Stanford) scored 18 points leading five players in double figures. Suput Predrag posted 16 and Brown Elton nailed 13. Schaffartzik Heiko and Hicks Michael netted 13 points each in defeat.

Bremerhaven - Dt.Bank SKY 75-58
Bremerhaven won over Dt.Bank SKY 75:58 in the start of the Semifinals. Jeff Gibbs

(188-F-80, college: Otterbein) and Drevo Andrew poured in 19 points each, while Martin Torrell nailed 12. McKinney Jimmy responded with 18 points in the losing effort. Jenkins Greg brought his side 14 and Allen Derrick delivered 8.

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

GREECE

Week 29 B Division: Negative results for the top seated teams but no real change as Lavrio is officially the champion. - by Chris Mammides
Lavrio is the official champion of the division even though suffered its second home defeat, after a great second half from Koronides and Sakis Veskoukis (195-G-80) of Apollon Patras. Panelefsiniakos suffered also an away defeat in Erythraia from Panerythraikos mainly due to Philip Hopsons performance. Lastly, the third of the top seated teams, Pierikos Arhelaos lost its game in Argos against AEK Argous and the top three positions remain exactly the same with Paneryhtraikos basically sealing the fourth position of the league which could be also among the lucky ones as during the summer some teams already in A2 might face some financial issues and they might want to relegate in the second division. In the final positions after Keravnos Aigiou which is already in the Third division, while another six teams will fight until the end to survive as the teams of Anagennisi Floga (40 points), MENT (39), Ag. Paraskevi (39), Mantoulidis (38), Komotini (38) and M. Alexandros (38) are all holding on a silken thread and are all going to play a do or die game next Sunday.
The results and the top scorers for this week were as follows:

Lavrio - Apollon Patron 77-80
Quarters: 18-8, 41-34, 55-50, 77-80
Lavrio: Giannakopoulos 21, Likogiannis 13, Nikos Psileas (200-F-80) 25 (5).
Apollon Patron: Traianos 10, Vlahopoulos 12, Koronides 18, Jelic 10, Sakis Veskoukis 27.

Panerythraikos - Panelefsiniakos 67-60
Quarters: 13-18, 29-33, 45-44, 67-60.
Panerythraikos: Stelios Kontoudis (185-G-73) 13, Hopson 19
Panelefsiniakos: Prokos 12, Tyrlas 14

AEK Argous - Pierikos Arhelaos 76-67
Quarters: 30-18, 53-30, 63-46, and 76-67
AEK Argous: Papantoniou 15, Dimitris Bitzis (194-F-86) 15, Gavanopoulos 14, Nikolopoulos 13
Pierikos Arhelaos: Raptis 16, Nemanja Cuk (208-C-74) 18.

Aias Evosmou - MENT 65-57
Quarters: 23-13, 32-28, 49-40, 65-57
Aias: Triantafillidis 16, Filiousis 10, Pashalis Voultsidis (200-F-81) 12, Kogias 12
MENT: Benas 12, Makris 14 (2).

Apollon Kalamarias - Agia Paraskevi 61-81
Quarters: 12-27, 25-43, 35-61, 61-81
Apollon Kalamarias: Nanis 17, Giosmas 10
Agia Paraskevi: Gregory Ktistou (186-G-79, college: Carthage) 17, Hatzikostis 15, KArabas 14 Mougios 11

Komotini Megas Alexandros 79-65
Quarters: 14-19, 32-34, 55-47, 79-65.
Komotini: Lehoudis 18, Koutsovasilis 19, Veli 10, Paratsoukidis 12.
M. Alexandros: Dimas 11, Armoutis 12, Bakos 11, Kigmetoglou 11

Doukas Anagennisi Floga 64-91
Quarters: 21-25, 36-53, 52-73, 64-91
Doukas: Pasalidis 11, Stamopoulos 10, Yfantis 12, Papadeas 13
Anagennisi Floga: Dimitris Kalampakas (202-F-89) 10, Lefteris Galanidis (185-G-88) 22, Georgoulas 12, Zarogiannis 13

Mantoulidis - Keravnos Aigiou 95-71
Quarters: 25-20, 41-32, 65-54, 95-71
MAntoulidis: Gakis 13, Katsivelis 15, Trantas 10, Chrisopoulos 11, Georgakis 13, Pallis 14.
Keravnos Aigiou: Bourdanos 11, Christos Samourelis (204-F-84) 20, Georgaros 10, Vasilis Ekine (201-F-83) 19

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

IBL

Energy Was Flowing - by John Gary
courtesy oursportscentral.com The Edmonton Energy wrapped up their three game series with the BC TITANS in style. On Sunday at the University of Alberta main gym,the Energy ran away with a 126-112 victory over the visitors based out of Langely BC,in a show that displayed plenty of offensive fireworks.The home side pulled out in front with a strong second quater and did enough to hold off the Titans for the remainder of the contest.

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

IRAN

Duhok no match for Mahram - by Eurobasket News
Mahram - Duhok 109:68
Mahram opened their Asia Champions Cup title defence with the second straight victory. They coasted past Duhok in Group A. Jackson Vroman (208-C/F-81, college: Iowa St.) unleashed 36 points to pace the effort. Duhok suffered their third consecutive loss at the start of the tournament.
The teams stayed close throughout the starting frame. Duhok matched their opponents and trailed by just three points 21:24 at the first break. But the Iranian champions fired off a 14:0 run early in the second term to run away. Mahram rallied to a comfortable 62:35 lead at the interval. The defending champions controlled the pace in the third stanza and finished it ahead by as many as 43 points 91:48. Mahram breezed to the victory in the fourth stanza.
Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) and Hamed Afagh (192-G-83, agency: SportsList Inc.) nailed 13 points each in the win. Calvin Cage (183-G-84, college: Buffalo) replied with 21 points for Duhok. Mohammed Mahdi delivered 17 points in the loss. Mahram will next take on Smart Gilas of Philippine. Duhok will face Smart Gilas on Wednesday.

Mahram: Jackson Vroman 36, Loren Woods 13, Hamed Afagh 13
Duhok: Calvin Cage 21, Mohammed Mahdi 17

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

IRAQ

ITALY

A Dilettanti Finals, game 1 - by Armando Caporaso
In the first final between the two winners of the groups in the regular season Forli' exceeds Barcellona for 76-67 in a very balanced match. The VemSistemi control the match and wins the game in the last quarter. Unstoppable Matteo Frassineti (195-G/F-87) that scores 19 points with 8/9 at free throw (7 fouls suffered) in only 21 minutes starting by bench. Always from the bench Riccardo Ravaioli (190-G-92) signs 9 points in 7 minutes with three 3 points shoot on 4 attempts. For the starting five great match of Mitchell Poletti (205-F/C-88) with 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 steals, 14 points for Stefano Masciadri (200-F-89), 8 points and 3 assist with 4 steals of Andres Forray (188-G-86) and 7 points with 5 rebounds for Massimo Farioli

(202-F/C-77, agency: Interperformances). For the Sigma the top scorer is Ryan Bucci (192-G/F-81, college: C.W. Post) with 26 points, 9/16 at shoot and 10 rebounds. 10 points for Francesco Guarino (182-G-79) with 5 steals and 4 assist, Daniele Bonessio (197-G/F-88) with 8 rebounds and for Luca Bisconti (206-F/C-82) with 7 rebounds but 6 turnovers.
In the second final face to face between the second team of the Group A and the third team of the group B. The winners of this series will play against the defeated of the first final, for the last promotion place to the LegaA2. The Fortitudo starts very well with a perfect match in game 1: 85-50 the final for Bologna against San Severo! Match without history, already decided in the first half (37-21). The MVP of the game is Alessandro Cittadini (207-C/F-79) that closes with 18 points (8/11 by 2), 6 rebounds and 7 steals (carrier high for the italian center). Good performances also for Gennaro Sorrentino

(185-G-85) with 13 points, Alejandro Muro (187-G-74, agency: Players Group) with 12 points and 3 assist and for Matteo Malaventura (196-G-78) with 13 points and 7 rebounds (3 offensive). Only 4 points for Davide Lamma (192-G-76, agency: Players Group) and Silvio Gigena

(200-F-75). From the bench 6 points of Salvatore Genovese

(198-G/F-87, agency: Players Group) and Marko Micevic (199-F-89), 7 points for Francesco Quaglia (207-F/C-88) with 6 rebounds in 14 minutes. For the Mazzeo game to forget... top scorer is Nelson Rizzitiello (198-G/F-84) with only 10 points but 3/10 at shoot. 8 points of Roberto Fossati (185-G-78), 6 points for Riccardo Marzoli (187-G-89) with 5 rebounds and 3 steals, 7 points of Andrea Iannilli (207-C-84) and Giovanni Rugolo

(196-G/F-81).

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

JORDAN

ASU record second win in a row in Doha - by Eurobasket News
ASU - Al Jalaa 78:64

ASU registered the second consecutive win at the Asia Champions Cup in Qatar. The victory allowed ASU to stay on top of preliminary Group B. Al Jalaa on the other hand slipped at 1-2 record. James Williams

(204-F-79, college: Brown Mackie) with 19 points.

Al Jalaa never led in the game, but came very close to it when they closed the gap from a seemingly lost 39-51 position to 53-57 in the closing moments of the third quarter.

But ASUs hard working point guard Wesam Al-Sous sank a couple of three-pointers and the Jordanian champions were back on track. This time around they kept moving ahead with confidence till the final buzzer.

These things are a part and parcel of the game, shrugged ASU coach Fredrick Oniga.

The important point is how the team reacts to such challenges, the Nigerian added.

Zaid Abbaas had a subdued day in scoring, with only eight points, but Al-Sous and American Oyedeji Olumide more than made for it.

Al-Sous played all the forty minutes of the games, and fired in five three-pointers out of 11 attempts for his 18 points.

Olumide picked a double-double adding a game-high 17 rebounds to his 16 points. James collected 13 rebounds.

We tried our best against a tough opposition. But then we fell short, Al Jalaa coach Mansur Bajramovic said.

Most of the games in this competition are a test of character for our team, the Bosnian added.

We are still in competition. Hopefully, we learn from these mistakes in the later rounds, said Al Jalaa captain Sari Papazian.

Scores

ASU, JOR 78 (James Williams 19, Wesam Al-Sous 18, Olumide Oyedeji 16) bt Al Jalaa, SYR 64 (Marcelle Yaqqub 23, Chudley Gray 16, Garnett Thompson 14). Quarterwise scores: 13-8, 32-20, 53-44.
FIBA Asia

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

KAZAKHSTAN

Smart Gilas surrender against Astana Tigers - by Eurobasket News
Smart Gilas - Astana Tigers 71:77 (OT)
Astana posted the second win at the Asia Champions Cup in Doha. The Tigers held off the Filipino champs Smart Gilas to improve at 2-1 record on top of preliminary Pool A. Smart Gilas suffered the second consecutive defeat at the tournament. Dmitriy Gavrilov (205-F-86) unloaded 26 points for the winning team.
The Tigers got to the better start. They earned a 20:14 lead at the end of the opening frame. Astana stayed in front in the second period. They established a 6-point advantage at the interval 36:30. Smart Gilas struggled to change the complexion of the encounter after the main break. Astana rallied to a 51:44 lead heading into the fourth stanza. But Smart Gilas were able to rescue the game in regulation. Aldrech Ramos (198-C/F-88) drained a late triple to send game into overtime. However Dmitriy Gavrilov took over in the extra frame. He knocked down 8 points and sealed the victory for the Kazakh side.
Anton Ponomarev (209-C/F-88, agency: Court Side) finished with 17 points in the victory. Chris Tiu (178-G-85) delivered 17 points for Smart Gilas. Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) added 14 points in the loss.

Smart Gilas: Dmitriy Gavrilov 26, Anton Ponomarev 17
Astana Tigers: Chris Tiu 17, Mark Barroca 14

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

KOSOVO

Eurobasket.com All-Kosovo League Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Azemi

Bolds

Pusic

Kacaniku

Hanxhiq

Player of the Year: Edmond Azemi (201-G/F-80) of Sigal Prishtina
Guard of the Year: Edmond Azemi (201-G/F-80) of Sigal Prishtina
Forward of the Year: Ulug Kacaniku (202-G/F-85) of Sigal Prishtina
Center of the Year: Fikret Hanxhiq (210-C-81) of Trepca
Bosman Player of the Year: Edmond Azemi (201-G/F-80) of Sigal Prishtina
Import Player of the Year: Demarius Bolds (190-G-84) of Bashkimi
Domestic Player of the Year: Ulug Kacaniku (202-G/F-85) of Sigal Prishtina
Coach of the Year: Arben Krasniqi of Sigal Prishtina

1st Team
G: Demarius Bolds (190-84) of Bashkimi
G: Dragan Pusic (193-84) of Peja
G/F: Edmond Azemi (201-80) of Sigal Prishtina
G/F: Ulug Kacaniku (202-85) of Sigal Prishtina
C: Fikret Hanxhiq (210-81) of Trepca

2nd Team
G: Brahim Veseli (195-82) of Trepca
F: Gaston Essengue (203-83) of Sigal Prishtina
F: Alex Carcamo (200-77) of Sigal Prishtina
F: Gazmend Asllani (200-86) of Trepca
F/C: Blerim Mazreku (206-81) of Bashkimi

Honorable Mention
Dinko Pellto () of Trepca
Drilon Hajrizi (208-C) of Trepca
Artan Kurti (194-F/G-78) of Bashkimi
Florian Rexhepi (183-G-84) of Bashkimi
Vigan Radoni (89) of Peja
Naim Haxha (210-C-79) of Trepca
Hekuran Binxhia (181-G-87) of Sigal Prishtina
Rron Grapci () of Peja
Fisnik Juniku (89) of K.EuroSporti

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Brahim Veseli (195-82) of Trepca
G/F: Ulug Kacaniku (202-85) of Sigal Prishtina
F: Gazmend Asllani (200-86) of Trepca
F/C: Blerim Mazreku (206-81) of Bashkimi
C: Fikret Hanxhiq (210-81) of Trepca

All-Imports Team
G: Demarius Bolds (190-84) of Bashkimi
F: Gaston Essengue (203-83) of Sigal Prishtina
F: Alex Carcamo (200-77) of Sigal Prishtina
F/C: Theophilus Little (208-85) of Peja

All-Bosmans Team
G: Dragan Pusic (193-84) of Peja
G: Enes Hadzibulic (196-81) of Bashkimi
G/F: Edmond Azemi (201-80) of Sigal Prishtina
F: Dime Tasovski (201-80) of Trepca
C: Jure Lozancic (211-83) of Trepca

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

LATVIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Oritseweyinmi EFEJUKU
  Barons
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Efejuku, Barons	18.5
2. Davis, Valmiera	17.8
3. Gulbis, Zemgale	16.6
4. Timermanis, Barons	16.5
5. Kojenets, Liepaja	15.7
6. Zakis, Ventspils	14.4
7. McCullough, VEF R.	14.4
8. Kisielius, Liepaja	14.1
9. Bergmanis, Zemgale	13.9
10. Jurevicus, Ventspils	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Aleh KOJENETS
  Liepaja
  (208-C-77)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Kojenets, Liepaja	7.3
2. Cipruss, Valmiera	6.7
3. Renfroe, VEF Riga	6.0
4. Zorin, Barons	5.9
5. Rozitis, Zemgale	5.6
6. McCullough, VEF R.	5.3
7. Gulbis, Zemgale	5.2
8. Zakis, Ventspils	5.2
9. Davis, Valmiera	5.0
10. Jurevicus, Ventspils	4.7

Assists Per Game

Alex RENFROE
  VEF Riga
  (190-G-86)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Renfroe, VEF Riga	5.9
2. Jeromanovs, Liepa.	4.3
3. Sirsnins, Barons	3.9
4. Strelnieks, Ventspils	3.5
5. Vilums, Liepaja	3.1
6. Bergmanis, Zemgale	3.0
7. Efejuku, Barons	3.0
8. Valters, VEF Riga	2.8
9. Bertans, Ventspils	2.5
10. Jurevicus, Ventspils	2.5

Steals Per Game

Rinalds SIRSNINS
  Barons
  (186-G-85)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Sirsnins, Barons	2.2
2. Renfroe, VEF Riga	2.2
3. Valters, VEF Riga	1.7
4. Bertans, Ventspils	1.6
5. Strelnieks, Ventspils	1.5
6. Efejuku, Barons	1.5
7. Davis, Valmiera	1.5
8. Vilums, Liepaja	1.5
9. McCullough, VEF R.	1.4
10. Bergmanis, Zemgale	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Jekabs ROZITIS
  Zemgale
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Rozitis, Zemgale	1.3
2. Davis, Valmiera	1.2
3. Cresnar, Valmiera	0.8
4. Skirmants, Barons	0.7
5. Zorin, Barons	0.7
6. Selakovs, VEF Riga	0.7
7. Nelyubov, VEF Riga	0.7
8. Timermanis, Barons	0.6
9. Bambis, Zemgale	0.5
10. Meiers, Ventspils	0.5

LBL Finals: VEF Riga ties it at 3-3 - by Eurobasket News
VEF Riga - Barons 85-74
VEF Riga tied the series at 3-3 over Barons as they beat them 85:74 in Game 6. Trailing 11-22 after the opening quarter the hosts managed to win the last three quarters and the game itself. Alex Renfroe (190-G-86, college: Belmont) stepped up with 24 points for the winners and Jahovics Gatis nailed 14. Ivars Timermanis

(202-F-82) ended up with 17 points in the losing effort. Game 7 is scheduled for May 28th.

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

LEBANON

Al Riyadi held off Al Hilal at Asia Champions Cup - by Eurobasket News
Al Riyadi - Al Hilal 83:77
Al Riyadi earned the second consecutive win at the Asia Champions Cup in Qatar. The Lebanon team prevailed against their Saudi Arabia counterparts Al Hilal tonight to remain on top of preliminary Group B. Al Hilal in the meantime slipped at 1-2 record. Fadi El Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) scored 19 points to pace Al Riyadi.
The first quarter saw a tough battle. Al Riyadi eked out a narrow 25:23 advantage at the first term. Fadi Al Khatib fired 17 points in the first half and that was him who made difference. Al Riyadi took over in the second stanza and rallied to a 49:36 lead at halftime. The Lebanese champions raised the tempo even higher in the third term and established a comfortable 22-point lead before the final frame. Al Hilal showed character in the fourth quarter as they went on a 14:2 run to cut the deficit. But Al Riyadi stayed confident and sealed the win at the end.
Ali Mahmoud (182-G-83) notched 16 points for Al Riyadi. Nate Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) added 12 points in the winning effort. DerMarr Johnson (206-G-80, college: Cincinnati) answered with 25 points for Al Hilal. Brandon Crump (208-C-82, college: Tennessee) netted 12 points in the loss.

Al Riyadi: Fadi El Khatib 19, Ali Mahmoud 16, Nate Johnson 12
Al Hilal: DerMarr Johnson 25, Brandon Crump 12

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

LIBERIA

LBF league Continues - by Numennie Williams
The Liberia Basketball Federation ( LBF) national league continued over the weekend with several matches taking place at the Open Air Sport Commission on Broad Street.

On Friday Road Runners bowed miserably to Ducor Magic 41-60 points in an important encounter. In the second pairing, C. Delta whipped SOS Trotters 60-22 points.

On Sunday, Georgia Blazers narrowly slapped Destiny Kings 42-43 points in the third division. C. Delta again defeated Ducor Magic 53-23 points.

The competition will continue during the week.

Meanwhile, the National Under 18-male and female teams continues their intensive training for the up coming Zone Three FIBA-Under 18 championship. The competition is expected to take place at the National Gymnasium at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville City.

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

LITHUANIA

Brad Newley expected to join Lietuvos Rytas - by Eurobasket News
Brad Newley

(199-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) can bolster Lietuvos Rytas squad in the next season. The 25-year-old Aussie spent the previous season in Turkey. Brad Newley played for Besiktas averaging 17.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists in the TBL. In EuroCup Newley delivered 13.3 points, 3.3 boards and 1.3 assists. Brad Newley played at the 2006 World Championship in Japan, the Commonwealth Games the same year. In 2008 the guard travelled to Beijing to participate at the Olympic Games and in 2009 Newley participated at the Oceania Championship together with Australia.

More than 10000 fans supported Rytas for Title - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas - Zalgiris 80:71

Lietuvos Rytas won the decisive 7th game to triumph in Lithuania. What a game and the series. Rytas won 80:71 mostly due to the third period.
Both teams realized the importance of the victory. Zalgiris scored the first three points in the game, while Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) made the first lay up for the hosts. The guests however took the lead later in the period and Brown scored for 14:6. Martynas Gecevicius

(193-G-88) was the last to post in the opening quarter giving the hosts 15:16. Zalgiris again went on a bigger lead and Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) made it 25:17. Milko Bjelica (207-C-84, agency: Beo Basket) however tasted the first lead with the hosts as he nailed three for 26:25 and another triple saw the board showing 31:29. Kenan Bajramovic scored at the end of the half for 35:34 halftime advantage.
The third period became decisive as Zalgiris could not follow the opponent. Trailing 39:40, Rytas exploded with 10-0 run to take the lead. Ginevicius posted two free throws for 49:40 advantage. Milko Bjelica made it 54:43 closing the third stanza. From that time it was not that hot in the court as Rytas never looked behind keeping the 10-point deficit. Babrauskas nailed three for 68:55 and Kenan Bajramovic scored for 72:58. Pocius reduced to 78:71 with one minute to play, while Milosevic closed the game at 80:71.
Milko Bjelica Milko top-scored for the winners with 24 points, while Kenan Bajramovic and Martynas Gecevicius followed him with 15 apiece. Aleksandar Capin (186-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 15 in defeat, Mantas Kalnietis had 13 and Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) added 9.

Lietuvos Rytas: Milko Bjelica 24, Kenan Bajramovic 15, Martynas Gecevicius 15
Zalgiris: Aleksandar Capin 15 Mantas Kalnietis 13, Dainius Salenga 9

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Andrius ALEKSANDROVAS
  Alytus Alita
  (197-G-86)
  Avg: 20.6

1. Aleksandrova., Alytus A.	20.6
2. Kazevicius, Alytus A.	19.5
3. Sirvydis, Sakalai	18.8
4. Dabkus, Rudupis	18.7
5. Kuzminskas, Siauliai	16.6
6. Kelys, Perlas	16.1
7. Gvezdauskas, Nevez.	16.0
8. Ezerskis, Techasas	14.7
9. Dimsa, Nevezis	14.6
10. Bajramovic, Lietuv.	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Egidijus DIMSA
  Nevezis
  (205-C-85)
  Avg: 9.7

1. Dimsa, Nevezis	9.7
2. Valanciunas, Perlas	7.5
3. Tatarunas, Alytus A.	7.4
4. Valukonis, Aisciai	7.3
5. Silinskis, Nevezis	7.2
6. Vilkius, Neptunas	7.2
7. Adomaitis, Alytus A.	7.1
8. Cepukaitis, Aisciai	7.1
9. Volkus, Techasas	6.6
10. Klimavicius, Zalgiris	6.5

Assists Per Game

Tomas GAIDAMAVICIUS
  Juventus
  (191-G-82)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Gaidamaviciu., Juven.	5.9
2. Broadus, Suduva	5.3
3. Low, Siauliai	5.3
4. Milosevic, Lietuv.	4.5
5. Ezerskis, Techasas	4.5
6. Kelys, Perlas	4.5
7. Maceina, Rudupis	4.4
8. Ivanauskas, Alytus A.	3.9
9. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	3.9
10. Jomantas, Lietuv.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Andrius ALEKSANDROVAS
  Alytus Alita
  (197-G-86)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Aleksandrova., Alytus A.	2.6
2. Kelys, Perlas	2.2
3. Valukonis, Aisciai	2.2
4. Dabkus, Rudupis	2.0
5. Lipkevicius, Aisciai	2.0
6. Vileita, Rudupis	1.9
7. Dainys, Rudupis	1.9
8. Uzas, Nevezis	1.8
9. Vilkius, Neptunas	1.8
10. Ginevicius, Lietuv.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Darius SILINSKIS
  Nevezis
  (216-C-84)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Silinskis, Nevezis	2.8
2. Begic, Zalgiris	1.6
3. Valanciunas, Perlas	1.5
4. Valanciunas, Lietuv.	1.2
5. Cepukaitis, Aisciai	1.2
6. Zyle, Aisciai	1.1
7. Tatarunas, Alytus A.	1.1
8. Volkus, Techasas	1.0
9. Leonavicius, Sakalai	0.9
10. Dimsa, Nevezis	0.9

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

MONTENEGRO

Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Vitkovac

Otasevic

Gordic

Popovic

Djordjevic

Player of the Year: Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82) of Buducnost
Guard of the Year: Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) of Buducnost
Forward of the Year: Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82) of Buducnost
Center of the Year: Stefan Djordjevic (206-C-89) of Teodo Tivat
Most Improved Player of the Year: Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) of Lovcen
Most Improved Player of the Year: Filip Barovic (206-F-90) of Buducnost
Import Player of the Year: Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82) of Buducnost
Defensive Player of the Year: Nikola Otasevic (184-G-82) of Buducnost
Coach of the Year: Dejan Radonjic of Buducnost

1st Team
G: Nikola Otasevic (184-82) of Buducnost
G: Nemanja Gordic (194-88) of Buducnost
G/F: Aleksa Popovic (201-87) of Lovcen
F: Cedomir Vitkovac (201-82) of Buducnost
C: Stefan Djordjevic (206-89) of Teodo Tivat

2nd Team
G: Petar Jovanovic (192-80) of Primorje-M.
F: Marko Calic (197-86) of Primorje-M.
G/F: Goran Gajovic (199-88) of Danilovgrad
F: Marko Simonovic (202-86) of Buducnost
C/F: Vladimir Dragicevic (206-86) of Buducnost

Honorable Mention
Aleksandar Radulovic (207-C-84) of Danilovgrad
Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) of Ulcijn
Ratko Petric (214-C-86) of Mogren Buvda
Ivan Zejak () of ABS Primorje
Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91) of Lovcen
Vladimir Mihailovic (193-G-90) of Mornar Bar

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Petar Jovanovic (192-80) of Primorje-M.
F: Marko Calic (197-86) of Primorje-M.
G/F: Aleksa Popovic (201-87) of Lovcen
C/F: Vladimir Dragicevic (206-86) of Buducnost
C: Aleksandar Radulovic (207-84) of Danilovgrad

All-Imports Team
G: Nikola Otasevic (184-82) of Buducnost
G: Nemanja Gordic (194-88) of Buducnost
F: Marko Simonovic (202-86) of Buducnost
F: Cedomir Vitkovac (201-82) of Buducnost
C: Stefan Djordjevic (206-89) of Teodo Tivat

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

NABL

Snohomish Explosion win 149-146 over Tacoma- eyes on playoff run - by Joe Becerra
Monroe, Washington - May 23rd 2010

The Snohomish County Explosion defeated the Tacoma Thunder Saturday Night at
the Monroe Sports Arena. With the final score being 149-146 with the
Explosion winning by three points the game started out on a much different path.

The Thunder started out firing on all cylinders and had the lead up by 10
points in the first quarter with the score 29-19, behind shooting from the
NABL's Three Point Champion Jason Stromvall. Jason hit teammate Marques
Echols in the corner with a NBA three to end the first quarter with the
Thunder on top 35-34.

The second quarter was a constant battle with the hot shooting of the Tacoma
from behind the arc. Thunder's Justin Dobson was lights out hitting 6/7 from
down town in the quarter, Chris Weakley and Chris Ferguson both had a sharp
shooting quarter from three point range also keeping Snohomish County in the
game and 4 year veteran Explosion center Mike Jones pulled down five
rebounds in the quarter to add to his career night. Jones would finish the
game with 16 points, and 6 rebounds in 20 minutes of play. Going into
halftime the Explosion were still down 69-65.

The third quarter was key as the explosion took the first lead of the game
with 5 minutes left in the quarter behind some great defense play from Shawn
Wolter. Shawn would end the game with 13 rebounds 29 points and 3 key
blocks. Sean Carter had double digits in points and rebounds and was the one
two punch with Wolter on the boards.

Chris Weakley was also really hot in the third hitting 4 three points
buckets but most important was his key free throw shooting for the game
going 10/12 from the line. Things got rolling and the Explosion home crowd
was on it feet as the comeback was happing the Explosion outscored Tacoma in
the third quarter 43-34 and regained the lead never to relinquish it again.

The fourth quarter did see Jason Stromvoll go hot again, although not from
three point range but on the drive, Stromvoll finished the night with 42
points and 13 rebounds for the Thunder. And Marques Echols had long rebound
after rebound also ending the game with 33 points and 10 rebounds. But
Explosion heart and sole Chris Weakley had the game of his career with the
Explosion taking the ball to the lane again and again to end with 40 points
and an Explosion game high.

The Explosion can move up as high as second place for the upcoming NABL
playoffs and with the win secure a playoff birth. The Explosion have been
the best NABL team in the last 6 games going 5-1 and are guaranteed a .500
or higher finish for the season with a current 6-5 record in league play.

Coach Nathan Mumm received his forth home win for the season and is now 4-1
on the season. 'You know we a great chance in the NABL play-offs this
season and tonight's win was key.' said Mumm. 'We have won two close
games, one game in Tualatin by one point, and now this last second defensive
stop to secure our playoff spot. I like our chances in a three game series
with anyone. With the new look of our team we now have six players that
score in double figures and our rebounding has improved. Wolter, Jones,
Carter and Brown are huge for us in being undersized centers or forwards but
they are monster players on the defensive side of the ball. Ferguson,
Weakley give us three points depth and Jason Hicks at the point is just
about the best point guard I have ever seen.'

The Explosion are still perfect at home under head coach Nathan Mumm and
look to keep this going for the last home game against Seattle.

Portland tops Salem 130-120- sets up NABL regular season title game - by Joe Becerra

The Portland Showtime set up a one game championship showdown with the Salem Stampede set for next Saturday May 29th at the HOOP in Salem.
The Showtime did it with a fast break offense and deadly three point shooting throughout the game.
Portland guard Mac Hopson was dominant in the win. He scored 35 points and added 7 assists and 6 rebounds.
Backcourt mate Dominic Waters who is currently being evaluated by the NBA Portland Trailblazers for the upcoming NBA draft, shot the ball very well
and finished with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Anthony Lackey continuing his strong season added 25 points and 8 rebounds.

Salem was led by Willie Freeman who scored 24 points added 12 rebounds and 4 blocks. Ryan Schmidt added 26 points and Jeff Dunn scored 24.
Salem is in first place of the NABL standings. Portland is in second place and can possibly clinch the regular season title with a win over Salem this Saturday.

A Showtime win on Saturday would leave them with a 2-1 advantage over Salem in head to head play. Portland would win any tie breaker if the season standings finished equal.
Salem has led the league standings from the first game and will look to bounce back. A Salem victory would give the Stampede the NABL regular season title outright.
The Winner of the NABL regular season title has home court advantage throughout the playoffs which start June 11.

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

NBA

Obama: LeBron, Bulls good fit - by Eurobasket News
If LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) isnt sure he can win in Cleveland, President Barack Obama thinks theres an opportunity with his hometown Chicago Bulls.

'You know, like I said, I dont want to meddle', Obama told TNT. 'I will say this: (Derrick) Rose, Joakim Noah its a pretty good core. You know, you could see LeBron fitting in pretty well there.'

Obama was interviewed about a number of basketball subjects by broadcaster Marv Albert on the White House basketball court. The interview will be shown Tuesday night at 7.

James can become a free agent this summer, and his decision whether to leave the Cavaliers is one of the hottest topics in sports. Though hes never said he wants out of his native Ohio, theres speculation hed consider it after the Cavaliers were knocked out of the playoffs in the second round by the Boston Celtics.

I think that the most important thing for LeBron right now is actually to find a structure where hes got a coach that he respects and is working hard with teammates who care about him and if thats in Cleveland, then he should stay in Cleveland, Obama said. If he doesnt feel like he can get it there, then someplace else.

Obama compared James situation to the Bulls not winning until Michael Jordan had confidence in Phil Jackson, Scottie Pippen and the rest of his teammates. Once that happened, Chicago won six NBA championships in the 1990s.

Courtesy of www2.ljworld.com

D-Fenders, Lakers' minor league affiliate, will take one-year hiatus - by Eurobasket News
The Lakers' minor league affiliate, the Los Angeles D-Fenders, will take a one-year hiatus and will no longer use Staples Center as its home base, The Times has learned.

Lakers owner Jerry Buss will retain ownership of the D-Fenders, who are expected to reemerge at a different Southern California venue for the 2011-12 season.

Buss bought the team in July 2006 to try to create a legitimate feeder team for the Lakers, but the D-Fenders generated no revenue from ticket sales because the only people allowed to attend their home games were those who bought tickets to Lakers home games.

D-Fenders games at Staples Center typically started four hours before a Lakers game, often in front of crowds of fewer than 100 people, though Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak often was among the spectators.

'When we got into the D-League, we took full advantage of the basketball opportunities,' said D-Fenders Chief Executive Joey Buss, one of Jerry Buss ' sons. 'We want to take time to look at how we can maximize the investment on the business side as well. The goal is to bring them back for the 2011-12 season.'

The Lakers made occasional use of the D-Fenders after they began playing in November 2006, though nothing close to the relationship between a major league baseball team and its triple-A affiliate.

The Lakers did not have any players spend time on the D-Fenders' roster this season, though in past years, Jordan Farmar, Coby Karl and Sun Yue had brief stints with the team after being sent down by the Lakers.

It is unclear which Development League team the Lakers will use next season, though they probably will share a club with two or three other NBA teams.

The D-Fenders were last in the West Conference last season, finishing with the second-worst record (16-34) among the 16 Development League teams.

'We will support them over the next year and look forward to having them back in 2011-12,' Development League President Dan Reed said.

Salaries for D-League players range from $12,000 to $24,000, with the NBA paying a portion of the salaries.

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

Cleveland Cavaliers fire coach Mike Brown after five seasons - by Eurobasket News
The most successful coach in Cavaliers history is now a former coach.

In a move expected since the team lost three consecutive games to be upset by the Boston Celtics in the conference semifinals, the Cavs fired coach Michael Brown on Sunday according to a league source. The news was first reported by ESPN.

It ended his run as the franchise's 17th coach after five seasons in which he broke numerous team records and was named the NBA's 2008-09 Coach of the Year.

The team announced the firing this morning. The reason the act had to be done before the end of the weekend was there was a clause in Brown's contract, an extension signed in 2007, that guaranteed him about half of his salary for next season of $4 million if he was let go within 10 days of the end of this season.

Cavs majority owner Dan Gilbert, who hand picked Brown and gave him his first head coaching job after an extensive coaching search in 2005, is believed to have been the driving force behind the decision. Though it followed more than a week of intensive meetings in which the merits and drawbacks of a coaching changed were deeply discussed.

Some Cavs' players, including LeBron James, also seemed to lose patience with Brown after some of his adjustments and rotations didn't work against the Celtics in the playoffs.

However, James is not believed to have made a personal push with management for a coaching change. He left it to the front office to make the final decision.

Brown seemed to struggle with his rotations after having to incorporate Shaquille O'Neal back into the team in the playoffs after O'Neal missed the final six weeks of the season. He started a lineup in the first game of the playoffs that he hadn't used all season and the turbulence from multiple players changing roles appeared to upset the balance of the team.

Those problems plus, according to sources, some disagreement over some game plans for playoff games with some of the team leaders eventually led to some discord in the locker room during the Celtics series.

The day Brown was hired, June 2, 2005, he promised he would make the Cavs a defense-based team. It was a pledge he would back up, using defense to win 100 regular games and four playoff series in just his first two seasons.

After some improvement in his first season, Brown's help-and-recover defensive system started to take hold. In the 2006-07 season, the Cavs allowed just 92 points a game in the regular season and just 86 points a game in the playoffs as the Cavs reached their first-ever Finals.

When the Cavs won a team-record 66 games in the '08-09 season, the Cavs allowed just 91 points a game and 43 percent opponent shooting.

Perhaps some of Brown's strongest work was his ability to help James become a better defender. After being suspect on defense his first two seasons in the NBA, James steadily improved under Brown. He was named first team All-Defense in each of the last two seasons.

But over the last two seasons, Brown's defense has struggled in the clutch. In losing in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2009, the Cavs allowed 103 points per game and 48 percent shooting. In getting ousted by the Celtics in the second round this year, the Cavs gave up 100 points and 47 percent shooting per game.

During his tenure Brown was often criticized for his offensive systems. But over the last two years made assistant coaches offensive coordinators and the Cavs had their best offensive year in Brown's tenure this season. The Cavs were one of the top six offensive teams in the league, averaging 102 points and shooting 48 percent per game.

Brown's regular season record was 272-138, a .663 winning percentage that was the best in team history. Brown also set a team record for playoff wins, finishing 42-29.

I have truly enjoyed working with Mike Brown. Mike has played a huge role in turning around the Cavs organization, said Danny Ferry in a statement released by the Cavaliers this morning. Over the past five years, Mike established a work ethic, defensive identity and culture of winning that was not here previously.

Brown was named the 2009 NBA Coach of the Year by members of the media.

Mike Brown is a class act. On behalf of the entire Cavaliers organization, there is only gratitude and appreciation for Mike's accomplishments over the past five years,' stated Cavaliers Majority Owner Dan Gilbert. 'I think it is clear that Mike Brown has been instrumental in contributing to the growth and progress we have experienced in recent years. We wish Mike and his family the best of luck in any future challenges that Mike chooses to accept going forward.

After a long and deep analysis of all of the factors that led to the disappointing early ends to our playoff runs over the past two seasons, we concluded that it was time for the Cavaliers to move in a different direction,' Gilbert added. 'The expectations of this organization are very high and, although change always carries an element of risk, there are times when that risk must be taken in an attempt to break through to new, higher levels of accomplishment. This is one of those times.

Courtesy of www.cleveland.com

Dan Majerle wants to coach Bulls - by Eurobasket News
Phoenix Suns assistant coach Dan Majerle recently was interviewed to the head-coaching gig for the Philadelphia 76ers that went to Doug Collins. He's apparently go the head-coaching bug now because ESPN is reporting that Majerle is coveting the head-coaching job with the Chicago Bulls. The 44-year-old played for the Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat in a playing career that spanned from 1988-2001 and him going to the All-Star Game three times.

He apparently hasn't had any conversations about the Bulls job with Chicago GM Gar Forman but he'd for Forman to give him a call. 'Yeah, I'm willing to listen to anybody,' he told ESPN, which doesn't exactly speak well of Majerle's selectivity.

Of course, the Bulls aren't hiring Majerle unless they think he would be a good selling point to LeBron James (notes), who the team is set to go after with abandon once he becomes a free agent on July 1. The wrong coaching decision by Forman could kill that possibility.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Chris Bosh gives Raptors wish list - by Eurobasket News
Chris Bosh's (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) agent has told the Toronto Raptors that he's narrowed his list of preferred teams to five, two sources told ESPN.com's Chad Ford at the NBA draft camp.

The list of five teams -- Toronto plus the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat and New York Knicks, sources said -- was given to Toronto management in case the Raptors want to construct a sign-and-trade deal (assuming Bosh doesn't re-sign with Toronto).

Bosh likes that option, sources told Ford, because he'd get one more year on his contract and could make more money.

'It has been narrowed down to a handful of teams, including us,' Raptors general manager Bryan Colangelo told the Toronto Star without providing more detail.

Sources said the Raptors prefer a sign-and-trade if Bosh is intent on leaving as well. They likely would want a big man to replace the 6-10, 230-pound Bosh in the lineup.

One source said Bosh's decision hinges on where LeBron James signs.

'If LeBron decides to go to either New York or Chicago, I think that's where you'll see Chris land,' the source told Ford. 'If LeBron stays in Cleveland, I think the process is more wide open.'

Bosh, 26, is an unrestricted free agent. He averaged 24 points per game last season and has averaged 20.2 points per game for his career.

Courtesy of ESPN

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

NCAA1

Jeff Jordan given release to transfer from Illinois - by Eurobasket News
Jordan Jefferson 's (6'7''-F) on-again, off-again basketball career at Illinois is over.

Michael Jordan's eldest son has been given his release to transfer to another school. Illinois spokesman Derrick Burson said Friday that Jordan is exploring options elsewhere but hasn't announced where he will go or whether he plans to play basketball in what will be his senior season.

The release is required by the NCAA if a student wants to leave to play at another school.

Illinois coach Bruce Weber called Jordan 'an important part of our team.'

Jordan left the Illini last June but changed his mind and rejoined the team for his junior season. He appeared in 92 career games and averaged 13.8 minutes per game last season as Illinois wound up in the NIT.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Forwards Patrik Auda, Anali Okoloji sign letters of intent to attend Seton Hall - by Eurobasket News
Forwards Patrik Auda (6'6''-F-89) of the Czech Republic and Anali Okoloji of New York City signed national letters of intent to attend Seton Hall.

Both forwards will be eligible to play next season and join incoming swingman Fuquan Edwin on the Pirates in the fall.

'We are very pleased to be able to sign a pair of talented front court players for next season,' Seton Hall coach Kevin Willard said in announcing the signings Friday. 'With Fuquan Edwin already signed, we believe (Auda and Okoloji) fortify a strong recruiting class that will make an immediate impact.'

Edwin was recruited by former coach Bobby Gonzalez, who was fired in March.

The 6-foot-9, 225-pound Auda played most recently at the Canarias Basketball Academy in the Canary Islands, Spain.

'I've seen CBA (players) in action firsthand, and without a doubt, it's one of the top basketball academies in Europe,' Willard said. 'Getting a student-athlete from CBA means getting a well-coached, highly disciplined player.'

The left-hander was named to the National Prep School Invitational All-Tournament Team after averaging more than 17 points and nine rebounds.

The 6-8, 220-pound Okoloji averaged 25 points, 11 rebounds and six assists last season for the Impact Basketball Academy in Florida. He previously played at Benjamin Banneker High School in Brooklyn.

'Anali's prep year really helped him develop his game to a much higher level than it was in high school,' Willard said.

Courtesy of www.nj.com

John Calipari 'going to stay' at Kentucky, predicts John Wall - by Eurobasket News
John Wall (6'4''-G-90) is heading to the NBA next season, but doesn't believe his former Kentucky head coach, John Calipari, will be returning to the Association. That's even if he has a chance to coach LeBron James (6'8''-F-84).

At the NBA combine in Chicago, Wall told The Associated Press that it was Calipari's 'dream' to coach Kentucky and added: 'I feel strongly he's going to stay.'

Wall also said Calipari 'would like to have another chance in the NBA,' just not this soon.

Calipari's NBA resume is hurting as the former Nets coach went 72-112 in two-plus seasons in New Jersey in the late 1990s.

Courtesy of www.nesn.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

Pero's international career up in the air - by Eurobasket News
Pero Cameron (199-F-74, agency: Duran International) is almost caught between two lives - a player facing international retirement if he can't get back in the Tall Blacks after injury; and a coach making a good fist of a new role.

Cameron is in his rookie coaching season at the Wellington Saints in the National Basketball League (NBL), with the Saints third on the ladder ahead of a vital clash with the Waikato Pistons next weekend.

The Tall Black legend is also battling two frustrating injuries that may force him to retire from international basketball if he is not fit enough to front up in June to seal a playing spot in the squad heading to the world championships in Turkey.

The Tall Blacks will assemble after the NBL competition with head coach Nenad Vucinic likely to put a potential pool of players through a vigorous conditioning and skills camp, before choosing a squad.

Cameron took little part in this season's Australian National Basketball League (ANBL) after injuring his right knee playing for the Gold Coast. The problem for Cameron is the knee injury has led to an injured left foot.

Cameron has bone density problems with his foot - hardly surprising considering the amount of punishment his body has taken in 18 years as a professional basketball player.

'The operation on my knee was successful and my club did a great job getting me back into a reconditioning programme,' said Cameron.

'But the problem was I was offloading weight from my right knee onto my left foot and that has put me behind where I'd like to be in terms of my Saints duties and Tall Black aspirations for the World Champs in Turkey.

'The injuries are just part of sport so I have to front up in June for a crack at the Tall Black squad and prove myself.'

A trip to the World Championships in Turkey would be a fitting final Tall Black tour for Cameron before his retirement.

At the 2002 World Championships in Indianapolis, Cameron took centre stage - making the all-tournament team alongside NBA stars Dirk Nowitzki, Peja Stojakovic, Yao Ming and Emanuel Ginobili.

Cameron is adamant he is fully focused on his coaching job with the Saints in 2010 and Tall Black talk is quickly dispatched as a minor issue.

The Saints have a record of 9-4 from 13 games so far this season. Cameron is happy with their recent form but knows better than most how the intensity level and passion of teams change at playoff time.

'Saints have given me this wonderful opportunity to kick off my coaching career and that is the only thing I'm focusing on right now. I'm really enjoying the challenge of coaching and it's a challenge that is changing every week.

'I have to find ways to explain and show the team different ways to execute and perform. Everybody learns differently to others and as a coach it's my responsibility to recognise this and work on my communication skills.'

With a stunning point guard-shooting guard combination of Lindsay Tait and sharp-shooting American guard Eric Devendorf, the Saints often destroy teams with furious shooting displays. Nick Horvath, Casey Frank, Leon Henry and Erron Maxey are certainly giving opponents plenty of problems getting rebounds.

Cameron is looking forward to Saturday's game between the Saints and his former club, the Waikato Pistons, in Wellington.

'I was born in Tokoroa but make no mistakes, the loyalty will be out the door, when we get out on the court next weekend,' said Cameron.

'It's gonna be all-out war and we have an interesting run of six games heading into the playoffs.

'We're in a position where we can focus on knuckling down over these next six games and securing a top two finish and a home semifinal spot.

'As a player and now a coach, it's the most exciting period of the season.'

Meanwhile, the Pistons have made another import change, replacing injured point guard Carl Krauser with Adelaide-based American Rashad Tucker.

The Pistons - attempting a hat-trick of wins - earlier this season fired original American import Eric Devendorf, replacing him with Krauser. Devendorf was quickly signed by the Wellington Saints and has been a revelation for the Cameron-trained team.

Pistons head coach Dean Vickerman felt that Devendorf was more of a scoring point guard as opposed to a true on-court leader.

Krauser has been a good on-court general for the Pistons since his arrival from New York but has been troubled by a right ankle injury sustained in his first training run with his new team.

Courtesy of www.nzherald.co.nz

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

PARAGUAY

74th METRO "TOP 5 PROFESIONAL" - by Santiago Maciel
The 2nd ROUND of the 74th METRO 'TOP 5 PROFESSIONAL' has recently ended with the soon pass of LIBERTAD to the finals.
Last years champion up leveled its game in the last month that took the 'black and white' team early to a new final round. Dany Perez and Bruno Zannoti clearly stood up for the 2009 champion.
Olimpia slowed down its fast and efficient first round pace ending in scond place. Now they will discuss the 2nd place for the FINALS with Felix Perez who qualified 3rd thanks to the bonus point they reached by finishing 3rd in the 1st round.
Sol ended up fourth despite the hiring of two excellent coaches Pfleger and Feliu.

STANDINGS 2ND ROUND

LIBERTAD 6-0
OLIMPIA 4-2
F.P.C 1-5
SOL 1-5

Santiago Maciel

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

PBL

Premier Basketball League reorganizes - by Eurobasket News
As the Premier Basketball League prepares for the 2010-2011 season, its fourth year of existence, the PBL's Board of Directors has commenced changes to allow the league to grow and thrive. With the announcement of new teams to be made in the next few weeks, it is necessary that adherence to the league operating standards of a team must be met.

After a review of the operations of all teams that participated in the PBL's 2009-10 season, it was determined that the Buffalo Stampede, a team that has been part of the PBL since the 2008-09 season, will not participate in the PBL's upcoming season.

'We appreciate the efforts that Vinnie Lesh and the Buffalo Stampede have given for the past two seasons,' said Dr. Sev Hrywnak, Chairman of the Board of the Premier Basketball League. 'Unfortunately, there have been some operational obstacles that have not allowed the Stampede to reach their full potential, and have kept the team from being able to compete on a level playing field with other teams in the PBL.'

Courtesy of PBL

PBL releases All League Teams - by Eurobasket News
The Premier Basketball League is pleased to announce its honorees for the All-League, All-Defensive and All-Rookie\\rosters for the 2009-2010 season.

The 2009-10 PBL champion Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry are well-represented on this year's lists, having four men in the All-League first and second teams.\\The designations were voted on by a poll of league officials, coaches and team representatives.

This year, the PBL has added an All-Rookie squad, featuring its top crop of new talent.

PBL ALL-LEAGUE FIRST TEAM
Larry Ayuso

(6'3''-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC), Puerto Rico Capitanes
DeAnthony Bowden (6'1''-G-80, college: Creighton), Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry
Eric Crookshank (6'7''-F-80, college: Idaho St.), Halifax Rainmen
Elvin Mims (6'5''-G/F-79, college: S.Mississippi), Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry
Lincoln Smith (6'10''-F/C-81, college: Mississippi St.), Rochester RazorSharks

PBL ALL-LEAGUE SECOND TEAM
Melvin Council (6'3''-G, college: Robert Morris), Rochester RazorSharks
Jerice Crouch (6'0''-G-84, college: Chattanooga), Rochester RazorSharks
Brandon Dean (6'2''-G-79, agency: Union Sports, college: Arkansas), Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry
Tim Ellis (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas St.), Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry
Scooter Sherrill (6'3''-G-81, college: N.Carolina St.), Maryland GreenHawks

PBL ALL-LEAGUE THIRD TEAM
Anthony Anderson

(5'11''-G-81, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Massachusetts), Manchester Millrats
Michael Anderson (7'0''-C-84, college: Lane), Maryland GreenHawks
Samuel Audet-Sow (6'6''-F-80), Quebec Kebs
Ketih Friel, Rochester RazorSharks
Dwuan Rice (5'11''-G, college: CSU Bakersfield), Vermont Frost Heaves

PBL ALL-DEFENSE TEAM
Jeffrion Aubry

(6'9''-C-76, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Cornell), Puerto Rico Capitanes
DeAnthony Bowden, Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry
Eric Crookshank, Halifax Rainmen
Gary Ervin (6'1''-G-83, college: Arkansas), Halifax Rainmen
Marlin Johnson (6'4''-F-75, college: Monroe CC), Rochester RazorSharks

PBL ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
Michael Anderson, Maryland GreenHawks
Jared Carter (7'1''-C-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Kentucky), Vermont Frost Heaves
Tyrece Gibbs (6'3''-G-85, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: New Hampshire), Manchester Millrats
Eric Gilchrese (6'0''-G-87, college: New Hampshire), Manchester Millrats / Halifax Rainmen
Rashad Woods (6'6''-G/F-86, agency: Union Sports, college: Kent St.), Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry

Courtesy of PBL (www.thepbl.com)

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

PHILIPPINES

Clif Brown gets MVP of the Week award for Filipino PBA - by Eurobasket News
American Clif Brown (200-F-84, agency: ZAG Advocates) had an amazing evening in the last round for Derby Ace Llamados and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 25.
The 26-year old forward had a double-double of 18 points and twelve rebounds, while his team beat Coca-Cola (#7, 4-7) 104-91. Despite this victory Derby Ace Llamados dropped to the 4th position in Filipino PBA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Derby Ace Llamados will need more victories to improve their 7-5 record. Brown just recently signed at Derby Ace Llamados, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Niagara University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Brown is in league's top in rebounds (5th best: 15.0rpg).

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old American swingman Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79) of Santa Lucia Realtors. Johnson impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 29 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Santa Lucia lost that game 78-92 to the higher-ranked Talk N Text (#2, 9-2). Santa Lucia is still in a red zone at 8th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-7 record. Johnson is one of the most experienced players at Santa Lucia and has a reputation of the team's most reliable player. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 30.5ppg (#1). He also registered 13.8 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Rashad Bell (201-F-82) of Coca-Cola Tigers (#7). Bell showcased his all-around game by recording 28 points, twelve rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. Despite Bell's great performance Coca-Cola lost 91-104 to the higher-ranked Derby Ace L. (#4, 7-5). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Coca-Cola not to end season on such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 7 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Bell could try to bring Coca-Cola's a little bit higher in the standings. Bell has a very solid season. In 3 games in Philippines he scored 27.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Diamon Simpson (201-F-87) of Alaska - 24 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Mark Caguioa (188-G-79) of Ginebra - 20 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Kelly Williams (198-F-82) of Talk N Text - 19 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Eric Menk (199-F-74) of Ginebra - 25 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Gary David (187-G/F-78) of Coca-Cola - 26 points
9. Joshua Urbiztondo (183-G-83) of Santa Lucia - 13 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Cyrus Baguio (188-G-80) of Alaska - 17 points and 5 assists

PBA: Latest games (Saturday, Sunday) - by Eurobasket News
Derby Ace L. - Coca-Cola 104-91
Derby Ace Llamados outplayed Coca-Cola Tigers 104-91 mostly owing to Clif Brown

(200-F-84, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Niagara), who scored 18 points and pulled down 12 rebounds. Roger Yap (186-G-77) also had very important role in this victory as he added 16 pts and 5 boards. In the loosing squad, Rashad Bell (201-F-82, college: Boston U.) collected 28 points and 12 rebs.

Talk N Text - Santa Lucia 92-78
Kelly Williams (198-F-82, college: Oakland) stepped up for the Texters with double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds. Ranidel de Ocampo (195-F-81) netted 14 pts in this win. On the other side, Anthony Johnson (197-G/F-79, college: La-Lafayette) collected 29 points and 14 rebs.

Ginebra - Alaska 105-93
Eric Menk (199-F-74, college: L.Superior) was the leading player in victory with 25 points and 12 rebounds. Mark Caguioa (188-G-79, college: Glendale CC (AZ)) followed him with 20 points. Diamon Simpson (201-F-87, college: St.Mary's, CA) replied with 24 points and 11 boards in defeat.

Smart Gilas surrender against Astana Tigers - by Eurobasket News
Smart Gilas - Astana Tigers 71:77 (OT)
Astana posted the second win at the Asia Champions Cup in Doha. The Tigers held off the Filipino champs Smart Gilas to improve at 2-1 record on top of preliminary Pool A. Smart Gilas suffered the second consecutive defeat at the tournament. Dmitriy Gavrilov (205-F-86) unloaded 26 points for the winning team.
The Tigers got to the better start. They earned a 20:14 lead at the end of the opening frame. Astana stayed in front in the second period. They established a 6-point advantage at the interval 36:30. Smart Gilas struggled to change the complexion of the encounter after the main break. Astana rallied to a 51:44 lead heading into the fourth stanza. But Smart Gilas were able to rescue the game in regulation. Aldrech Ramos (198-C/F-88) drained a late triple to send game into overtime. However Dmitriy Gavrilov took over in the extra frame. He knocked down 8 points and sealed the victory for the Kazakh side.
Anton Ponomarev (209-C/F-88, agency: Court Side) finished with 17 points in the victory. Chris Tiu (178-G-85) delivered 17 points for Smart Gilas. Mark Barroca (198-F/C-88) added 14 points in the loss.

Smart Gilas: Dmitriy Gavrilov 26, Anton Ponomarev 17
Astana Tigers: Chris Tiu 17, Mark Barroca 14

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POLAND

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Michael WRIGHT
  PGE Turow
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 21

1. Wright, PGE Turow	21.0
2. Mays, Znicz	19.3
3. Day, ISS Sportino	19.2
4. Chappell, Znicz	18.3
5. Williamson, Znicz	17.9
6. Miller, Polonia Azbud	17.6
7. Okafor, Polpharma	17.6
8. Logan, Assec.Pr.	17.3
9. Swanson, AZS K.	17.1
10. Berisha, Polonia 2011	16.0

Rebounds Per Game

Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Harris, SKK K.	11.3
2. Kuzminskas, Trefl S.	8.2
3. Chappell, Znicz	8.2
4. Daniels, Energa C.	8.1
5. Kesicki, ISS S.	7.8
6. NaNa, Polonia Azbud	7.6
7. Kinnard, Trefl S.	7.5
8. Wallace, PGE Turow	7.2
9. Okafor, Polpharma	7.2
10. Bigus, Polonia 2011	7.1

Assists Per Game

Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Szubarga, Anwil	6.7
2. Loyd, Stal SW	5.9
3. Swanson, AZS K.	5.1
4. Smith, SKK Kotwica	5.1
5. Brazelton, Energa C.	4.8
6. Logan, Assec.Pr.	4.5
7. Snieg, Polonia 2011	4.4
8. Milicic, AZS K.	4.1
9. Hughes, Polonia .	4.0
10. Mays, Znicz	3.9

Steals Per Game

Jeremy CHAPPELL
  Znicz
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Chappell, Znicz	2.9
2. Day, ISS Sportino	2.4
3. Godbold, Stal SW	2.1
4. Logan, Assec.Pr.	2.1
5. Mays, Znicz	2.0
6. Majewski, Polph.	2.0
7. Angley, Polpharma	1.9
8. Swanson, AZS K.	1.9
9. Hawkins, Trefl S.	1.8
10. Daniels, Energa C.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Leszek KARWOWSKI
  Polonia 2011
  (209-F-75)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Karwowski, Polonia .	1.6
2. Wallace, PGE Turow	1.4
3. Harris, SKK K.	1.4
4. Kesicki, ISS S.	1.3
5. Booker, Energa C.	1.1
6. Misiewicz, Znicz	1.1
7. Lapeta, Assec.Pr.	1.1
8. Kuzminskas, Trefl S.	1.0
9. Wyka, Znicz	1.0
10. Johnson, PGE Turow	0.8

Pawel Leonczyk stays in Energa Czarni Slupsk for another two seasons! - by Eurobasket
Former Polish NT forward and starter of Energa Czarni Slupsk Pawel Leonczyk

(202-F-86, agency: Promotex) re-signed contract for another 2 seasons with option for 3rd with Slupsk team. Leonczyk played there last two seasons with break for his adventure in Turow Zgorzelec last year. After he back from Turow played for Energa in 19 games: 10.9ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.2apg with 65.2% FGP, 74.4% FT.

PLK Round: 2 (Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Assec.Prokom - Anwil 91-84
Jan-Hendrick Jagla (213-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Penn St.) scored 31 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Prokom to the second consecutive win in the PLK Final. David Logan

(184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) added 17 points, while Qyntel Woods (203-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) accounted for 14 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists as the defending champions earned 2-0 lead against Anwil. Nikola Jovanovic

(204-C-81, agency: BeoExcell) responded with 20 points for the Wloclawek team. Krzysztof Szubarga

(182-G-84, agency: AB Agency) nailed 19 points in the loss.

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

PUERTO RICO

BSN Playoffs Import's Update - by Rafael Otero
Eight teams made it to the BSN 2010 Playoffs. It was as exciting as it takes since the 8th and last spot was decided on the last game of the schedule, getting Gallitos a victory over Humacao. Also the third spot on the standing was decided when Quebradillas beat Santurce by almost 20 points at 'La Guarida' this past saturday. Bayamon dominate all Regular season and finished at the top of the standing followed closely by Arecibo. Quebradillas in the 3rd place will now face San German, who finished 6th in the first round of the playoffs. With their last victory, Ponce took the 4th spot over Santurce. Now, both teams will face in the playoffs. Isabela and Guaynabo will be rivals of Bayamon and Arecibo respectively.
As far as imports, some teams keep it with the same and some others made or are looking to make some changes. Bayamon keept their same two with Terrence Shannon (203-F-79, agency: N.E.T., college: Elgin CC) and Robert Traylor

(204-F/C-77, college: Michigan). That duo dominated the opossition and definetely Vaqueros were other team after they joined. They will face Jared Reiner (211-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Iowa) and Reggie Okosa (206-F/C-80, agency: Lanshire Group, college: La Salle) which are Gallito's imports. Okosa job isn't sure since very strong rumors take him out but Reiner made a very good impression in his BSN debut. He can do it a little bit of everything and is a very smart big man. But his real test will be against Tractor & Co. in Bayamon. Arecibo made a very good last minute move signing versatile scorer Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami (FL)) who debuted with 28 points. He came to substitute Tim Pickett (193-G/F-81, college: Florida St.), who did ok but not impressive. Picket was the only import who came off the bench in the BSN due to Capitanes deep rotation. They will face Guaynabo Mets who are now coach with the experimental Flor Melendez . Mets were struggling lately but coach Flor came to the rescue and put them in the playoffs. They have always effiicient Matt Freije (206-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) as one of their imports but are considering making a move to substitute Kurt Looby (208-F/C-84, college: Iowa). Christophe Massie

(206-F-77, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Memphis), Michael Southall (210-C-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: La-Lafayette) and Brooks Sales

(208-C/F-80, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Villanova) sounds as candidates for the job. They really need that help inside to match up against Arecibo strong play of Danny Santiago, Jeff Aubrey, Angelo Reyes and now Rice. Also they need a healthy Angel Figueroa (finger) (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Dowling) to compete. In other matchup, San German recently added Rod Benson

(208-F/C-84, college: California) to substitute LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands). Atleticos were looking for some inside punch with that move but apparently Benson is not the answer due to his poor performances in his first 2 games. Hickerson was arguably the most consistant import this year but with the entrance of last years MVP Jesse Pellot they thinked that a post player will be more helpful. It's uncertain if they will keep or substitute Benson but whoever comes will have his hand full with Pirata's import Shawn Redhage (203-F-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Arizona St.) who is playing greatly. The other Pirata's import is PG C.J. Bruton (188-G-75, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Indian Hills CC) who is doing ok and team are 12-2 since he joined. And finally, Ponce vs Santurce series will have a very good imports matchup. Ex BSN champion and prolific scorer White Rodney (206-F-80, college: Charlotte) just came to substitute Lee Nailon (204-F-75, college: TCU) and will make couple with Leon Rodgers (199-F-80, college: N.Illinois) making a very good offensive duo. They will face MVP candidate Michael Sweetney (203-F-82, college: Georgetown) who came ready to produce and with his contribution is making an argument to be invited to NBA summer league or get a good overseas contract.

Stay tuned with Eurobasket.com for constant import's update and all matters related to BSN playoffs and Puerto Rico Basketball.

Ayuso number one in Puerto Rico for week 12 - by Eurobasket News
Naturalized American guard Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza) put on an extraordinary performance in the last week for second-ranked Capitanes de Arecibo, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for week 12.
The 33-year old player was the main contributor (28 points, four rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to edge out Quebradillas (#3, 17-12) in overtime 90-89. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Capitanes maintains the 2nd position in American BSN. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Capitanes will need more victories to improve their 22-7 record. Ayuso just recently signed at Capitanes, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Former University of Southern California star has very solid stats this year. Ayuso is in league's top in points (8th best: 18.2ppg).

The second best player in last week's games was 27-year old former international guard Ali Berdiel (198-G-83) of Caciques de Humacao. Berdiel had a very good evening with a triple-double of 22 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists. Bad luck as Humacao was edged by the higher-ranked Quebradillas (#3, 17-12) 89-85. Humacao is still second from the bottom in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-18 record. Berdiel is one of the most experienced players at Humacao and has a reputation of the team's most reliable player.

Third on the list of top players last week was former international swingman Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) of Indios de Mayaguez (#10). Carmona got into 30-points club by scoring exactly 30 points in the last week. He went also for ten rebounds . Despite Carmona's great performance Mayaguez lost 81-97 to the higher-ranked Ponce (#4, 15-13). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Mayaguez can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 7-21 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Carmona he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Carmona has individually a great season in Puerto Rico. After 22 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.2ppg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Shawn Redhage (203-F-81) of Quebradillas - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Matt Freije (206-F-81) of Guaynabo - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Johwen Villegas (193-G-85) of San German - 26 points and 6 rebounds
7. Michael Sweetney (203-F-82) of Santurce - 21 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Filiberto Rivera (187-G-82) of Isabela - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists

BSN: Latest games with stats (May 16 - May 22) - by Eurobasket News
San German - Ponce 82-89
It has been 2 full season without the Lions being able to post a win against the San German Athletics, but the Lions playing with their full roster for the very first time this season finally got the best of the Athletics, as they beat San German, 89-82. It was more of a moral victory than anything else as the Lions seemed destined to finish either in 4th position if they win tonight against the Santurce Crabbers, or 5th if they lose, either way they will match up against the Santurce Crabbers to start postseason play. The Athletics opened up the game with a 10-0 run in the 1st quarter as the Lions looked lost in their offense, but a 3 pointer from Leon Rodgers (199-F-80, college: N.Illinois) finally got the Lions on the board. The Athletics showed some quickness in this quarter and with 3:20 to play in the quarter were leading by 7 points, 17-10. A 3pointer from Bobby Joe Hatton from half court as the clock ran out put the score 24-18 with the Athletics in the lead. In the 2nd quarter the Lions battled back and got into the game with Rick Apodaca providing some strong defense on Johwen Villegas (193-G-85, college: Florida Intern.) who was making shots at will until Apodaca stopped in that quarter. The 1st half came to an end with the Athletics still in the lead 41-39. In the 3rd quarter it was the Lions who went on to score at will and claimed the lead early in the quarter with a 3 pointer from Carlos Rivera to put the score 42-41 with 9:15 to go in the quarter. The quarter came to an end with the Lions in the lead, 61-53. In the 4th quarter the Lions extended their lead and frustration started to show on the Athletics as head coach gave instructions to foul repeatedly trying to reach the over the limit foul to stop the clock and thus try to have Johwen Villegas shoot bombs from 3 point range to try to get back into the game. The strategy backfired as the Lions made their free throws and sealed the win. For Ponce, White Rodney (206-F-80, college: Charlotte) scored 24 points and grabbed 9 rebounds followed by Leon Rodgers with 21 points. For San German, Johwen Villegas finished the night with 24 points while Bryant Lassiter (178-G-87, college: NYIT) scored 16 points. *by Luis Ramirez

Isabela - Guaynabo 80-88
The Guaynabo Mets defeated the Isabela Gallitos to assure themselves of at least a tie in the regular season which would assure them of at least a sudden death game as the regular season comes to an end. The Mets won 88-80 and they put the Gallitos into a possible elimination from post season play. The Mets took the 1st quarter 23-13, but the Gallitos battled back in the 2nd quarter to cut into the Mets lead as the 1st half came to an end 40-33. In the 3rd quarter the Mets were able to extend their lead to 9 points, 67-58. The Gallitos would not be able to make up the difference in the 4th quarter and thus face a possible elimination from post season play. For Guaynabo, Matt Freije (206-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) scored 24 points while Luis Damian Morales scored 18 points. For Isabela, Filiberto Rivera

(187-G-82, college: UTEP) and Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82, agency: Paris Global Sports) both scored 20 points; Rivera also had 8 assists in the game. *by Luis Ramirez

Bayamon - San German 67-70
San German Athletics beat the leading Bayamon Cowboys with a last second bomb from Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) who made the 3 pointer with just 1 second left in the game. The game was hard fought from the opening whistle as the 1st quarter ended tied at 23 points. The Athletics took a 1 point lead as the 1st half ended 38-37. The Cowboys came back in the 3rd quarter to tie the game once again at 56-56. In the 4th quarter once again the game was up for grabs and it seemed that it would go into overtime, but it was Pellots bomb that put the game away with a dramatic win for the local team. *by Luis Ramirez

Santurce - Quebradillas 80-99
Quebradillas Pirates assured their 3rd place position in the standings as they beat the Santurce Crabbers 99-80. The Crabbers took the 1st quarter 25-22 but the Pirates tied the game as the 1st half came to an end at 42 points each. In the 3rd quarter the Pirates exploded for 33 points while they kept the Crabbers at just 12 point during that quarter to take a commanding lead as the quarter came to a close, 75-54. The Crabbers were never a threat during the 4th quarter and thus the Pirates will meet the San German Athletics in opening post season play. For Quebradillas, David Huertas (196-G-87, college: Mississippi) scored 26 points followed by Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) with 19 points and 12 rebounds. For Santurce, Walter Hodge (183-G-86, college: Florida) scored 22 points, while Michael Sweetney (203-F-82, college: Georgetown) scored 14 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. *by Luis Ramirez

Capitanes - Mayaguez 83-88
Mayaguez had Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) in a game mood with 18 points and 8 rebounds. James Maye (201-G/F-81, college: NC-Greensboro) and Steven Ramirez helped with 14 points each. For the Arecibo Capitanes, David Cortes (7 rebs) and Larry Ayuso

(190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) (5 rebs) netted 15 points each.

Guaynabo - Capitanes 68-87
Arecibo Captains crushed the Guaynabo Mets, 87-68. The Captains took the lead from the get go, as the 1st quarter ended 18-12 for the Captains and from there on it was all Captains. The 1st half ended 41-28 with the Captains comfortably in the lead. The 2nd half didnt get any better for the Mets as they would get an offensive push in the 4th quarter but it would be too little too late for the Mets. For Arecibo, Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami (FL)) scored 28 points followed by Larry Ayuso

(190-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: USC) with 15 points. For Guaynabo, Christopher Vega (182-G-84) scored 19 points while Luis Damian Morales (191-F-88) scored 10 points. *by Luis Ramirez

Quebradillas - Humacao 89-85
Quebradillas Pirates consolidated their 3rd place position as they beat the Humacao Caciques 89-85. The Pirates took the 1st quarter by the minimum 30-29 but the Caciques got a big offense quarter in the 2nd quarter to end on top as the 1st half ended, 49-39. In the 3rd quarter it was the Pirates who had an explosive scoring run and the quarter ended with the Pirates taking the lead, 68-60. In the 4th quarter the Caciques made an effort put came up short in their efforts. For Quebradillas, Shawn Redhage (203-F-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Arizona St.) scored 24 points while Peter John Ramos followed up with 20 points and 7 rebounds. For Humacao, James Mays (206-F-86, college: Clemson) scored 24 points followed by Corsley Edwards with 23 points. *by Luis Ramirez

Guaynabo - Quebradillas 88-96
Quebradillas was too strong for Guaynabo mostly owing to C.J. Bruton (188-G-75, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Indian Hills CC), who scored 24 points and pulled down 7 assists. Shawn Redhage followed him with 19 points, 9 boards and 5 assists. In defeat, Matt Freije collected 24 points and 6 rebs.

Ponce - Santurce 76-81
Santurce cruised past Ponce getting 21 points and 10 rebounds from Michael Sweetney. Ricky Sanchez (212-C/F-87) helped with 16 points. In the loosing squad, Rodney White shined with 29 points and 9 boards.

Santurce - Capitanes 83-84
Arecibo Captains once again squeezed out a victory as they beat the Santurce Crabbers 84-83. The Crabbers took the 1st half with a score of 43-35, but the Captains managed to make up the difference in the 3rd quarter to take a 1 point lead, 64-63 which was sufficient to eventually win the game by the minimum. For Arecibo, Larry Ayuso scored 21 points while Angelo Reyes scored 16 points with 13 rebounds. For Santurce, Michael Sweetney scored 21 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, followed by Ricky Sanchez with 15 points. *by Luis Ramirez

San German - Isabela 78-86
Reggie Okosa (206-F/C-80, agency: Lanshire Group, college: La Salle) stepped up for the winners with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Filiberto Rivera had 21 points and 9 boards, while Rafael Perez added 20 pts and 5 rebs. In San German, Mario Austin (206-F/C-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Mississippi St.) nailed 23 points.

Quebradillas - Capitanes 89-90 OT
You could have had a hard time picking a hero in last night game where the Arecibo Captains beat the Quebradillas Pirates in overtime, 90-89. It could have been Larry Ayuso with 29 points, or maybe Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) making a 3 pointer in the crucial overtime period or maybe it could have been David Cortes as he made a field goal with just 3 seconds left in the overtime period to give the Arecibo the lead, yet again it could have been Andres Rodriguez

(182-G-81, college: American) 3 pointer which brought back the Captains from what seemed a possible defeat. In summary it was a real team effort which gave the Captains the win in a jammed pack Arecibo Coliseum, a win which sent a message to the Pirates if these two teams meet in the playoffs. The game started off with the Pirates taking a 7 point lead in the first quarter 22-15, and then in the second quarter both teams could simply not make a basket, the Pirates could only score 9 points in this quarter while the Captains would do no better by scoring just 7 points to end the half trailing the Pirates, 31-22. In the 2nd half the Captains got their offense going and came back late to take the lead and then it was the Pirates who made a late surge to send the game into overtime. For Arecibo, Larry Ayuso scored 28 points followed by Andres Rodriguez and Daniel Santiago with 16 points each. For Quebradillas, Shawn Redhage scored 28 points while Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Sacramento St.) scored 18 points. *by Luis Ramirez

Humacao - Guaynabo 76-68
Humacao grabbed this one mostly owing to Ali Berdiel (198-G-83, college: Valparaiso), who had 20 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Kleon Penn (211-C-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: McNeese St.) followed him with 13 points and 7 boards. In the loosing squad, Ansel Guzman (174-G-84, agency: Paris Global Sports) collected 19 points and 5 assists.

Mayaguez - Ponce 81-97
The Lions got their 3rd win in a row last night as they beat the Mayaguez Indians, 97-81. With this victory the Lions entered into a 3 way tie with the Quebradillas Pirates and the Santurce Crabbers. At this moment the Lions hold 3rd place based on goal average as they bet the Pirates twice and are currently winning their series against the Crabbers. With a fast start the Lions took the 1st quarter, 23-19, and by the middle of the 2nd quarter were leading by 10 points, 41-31. The 1st half ended with the Lions in control of the game 51-38. In the 2nd half the Indians would not seriously threat the Lions, the 3rd quarter ended with the Lions leading by 8 points 70-62. In the 4th quarter the Lions the Lions quickly went into an offensive run to put the game out of reach of the Indians. For Ponce, Leon Rodgers scored 23 points with 8 rebounds followed by Lee Nailon (204-F-75, college: TCU) with 17 points. For Mayaguez, Alejandro Carmona scored 30 points and had 10 rebounds while both Alex Galindo and James Maye scored 10 points. *by Luis Ramirez

Mayaguez - San German 87-80
Mayaguez Indians served as spoilers as they beat the San German Athletics who were playing at home, 87-80. The Athletics took the 1st half, 39-33, but the Indians played a tight defense in the 2nd half to take the win. For Mayaguez, Keenan Jourdon (202-F-74, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Boston Coll.) scored 20 points with 10 rebounds while Paul Graham (196-G-85, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Florida Atlantic) and James Mays both scored 14 points. For San German, Mario Austin scored 19 points followed by LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) who scored 18 points. *by Luis Ramirez

Humacao- Bayamon 75-80
The box-score will be available soon.

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

1. Bayamon		23-6
2. Capitanes		22-7
3. Quebradillas		17-12
4. Ponce		16-13
5. Santurce		15-14
6. San German		13-16
7. Guaynabo		11-18
8. Isabela		11-18
9. Humacao		10-19
10. Mayaguez		7-22

Latest transactions in BSN - by Eurobasket News
BSN teams were pretty active last week.
Humacao announced signing of James Life (194-G-83, college: Massachusetts), who finished the season few days ago in FYROM. He helped Feni Industri to win the double: Championship Title and National Cup.
At the same time, Humacao agreed terms with Corsley Edwards (206-C/F-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Cent.Conn.St.). The 31-year old PF/C spent this season in China, D-League and Egypt.
Ponce signed contract with two players. The first is White Rodney (206-F-80, college: Charlotte), who is coming from Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (China). The second newcomer to Ponce is Rick Apodaca

(192-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Hofstra). Most recently Apodaca played for Scafati Basket (Italian Lega Due).
Arecibo Capitanes inked Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami (FL)) for rest of the season. Rice is coming from Hungarian team Szolnoki Olajbanyasz.
Mayaguez landed Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross), who spent this season in Germany with New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig.
San German agreed a deal with Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) and Rod Benson

(208-F/C-84, college: California). Pellot is coming to San German from Maccabi Haifa Heat (Israel-Premier League). Benson played for the Reno Bighorns (D-League).

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RUSSIA

Stats Leaders - Superleague A

Points Per Game

Lionel CHALMERS
  Enisey
  (183-G-80)
  Avg: 19

1. Chalmers, Enisey	19.0
2. Rush, Triumph	18.8
3. Bykov, Dynamo M.	18.8
4. Green, Lokomoti.	16.3
5. Rakovic, Spartak SP	15.2
6. Flores, Krasnie .	15.2
7. White, Spartak SP	14.8
8. Popovic, Unics	14.7
9. Kambala, Enisey	14.5
10. Bremer, Krasnie .	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Viktor KHRYAPA
  CSKA
  (204-F/G-82)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Khryapa, CSKA	8.4
2. Monya, Dynamo M.	8.0
3. Trushkin, Krasni.	7.0
4. Lampe, Unics	6.4
5. Rakovic, Spartak SP	6.4
6. Kambala, Enisey	6.1
7. Kaun, CSKA	5.8
8. Javtokas, Khimky	5.7
9. McCarty, Khimky	5.7
10. Mensah-Bonsu, CS.	5.3

Assists Per Game

Ernest BREMER
  Krasnie Krilya
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Bremer, Krasnie .	5.7
2. Khryapa, CSKA	4.0
3. Shved, Dynamo M.	3.6
4. Rush, Triumph	3.6
5. Popovic, Unics	3.6
6. Bykov, Dynamo M.	3.6
7. Fields, Spartak SP	3.5
8. Planinic, CSKA	3.4
9. Vyaltsev, Triumph	3.3
10. Cabezas, Khimky	3.3

Steals Per Game

Sergey BYKOV
  Dynamo M.
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Bykov, Dynamo M.	2.1
2. Khryapa, CSKA	2.1
3. Rush, Triumph	2.0
4. Bremer, Krasnie .	1.7
5. Lyday, Unics	1.7
6. Surovtsev, Lokomoti.	1.6
7. McCarty, Khimky	1.6
8. Monya, Dynamo M.	1.6
9. Chalmers, Enisey	1.6
10. Pashutin, Spart.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

James GIST
  Lokomotiv K.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 1.2

1. Gist, Lokomotiv K.	1.2
2. Mozgov, Khimky	1.2
3. Khryapa, CSKA	1.0
4. Monya, Dynamo M.	1.0
5. Savenkov, Lokomoti.	0.9
6. Douthit, Krasnie .	0.8
7. Vasilyev, Dynamo M.	0.8
8. Javtokas, Khimky	0.7
9. Kaun, CSKA	0.7
10. Lampe, Unics	0.6

A Superleague Semi-Finals: Khimky and CSKA win the second games - by Eurobasket News
Khimky - Unics 98-73
Trailing 21-26 after the opening quarter, Khimky bounced back with 31-7 in the third quarter to win Game 2 over Unics. Ricky Minard (194-G/F-82, college: Morehead St.) stepped up with 23 points for the hosts and Javtokas Robertas followed him with 18. McCarty Kelly netted 18 and Fridzon Vitaly added 14. Zvarykin Victor responded with 20 points in the losing case.

CSKA - Dynamo M. 85-60
CSKA overcame Dynamo Moscow 85:60 in the Semifinal Game 2 for 2-0 lead. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) top-scored for the winners with 17 points, Langdon Trajan scored 15 and Planinic Zoran added 14. Zhukanenko Alexey delivered 21 points in the losing effort.

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SAUDI ARABIA

SERBIA

Cakarevic number one in Serbian Super Liga for round 10 - by Eurobasket News
Swingman Marko Cakarevic (200-F/G-88, agency: Interperformances) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Radnicki Kragujevac, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 10 (Second Stage).
The 22-year old player was the main contributor (18 points, nine rebounds and six assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush Tamis (#6, 2-8) with 21-point margin 86-65. Radnicki Kragujevac maintains the 3rd position in Serbian A League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. Radnicki Kragujevac will need more victories to improve their 7-3 record. Cakarevic turned to be Radnicki Kragujevac's top player in his first season with the team. Marko Cakarevic averages this season 8.8ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old Montenegrin Milos Borisov (201-F-85) of league's second-best KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac. Borisov had a very good evening with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Bad luck as Hemofarm lost that game 69-74 to slightly higher-ranked Partizan (#1, 9-1). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Hemofarm still maintains its place in the top 2 of the standings, even despite this loss. It was just his team's 2nd loss in Second Stage, while they won 8 other games. Borisov is one of the most experienced players at Hemofarm and has a reputation of the team's most reliable player.

Third on the list of top players last round was international center Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88, agency: Buck Andre) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd (#5). Raduljica scored 23 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was a key player of FMP, leading his team to a 71-65 win against the lower-ranked Metalac (#8, 1-9). FMP needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 6 victories and 4 lost games. Raduljica has a very solid season. In 10 games in Serbia he scored 20.7ppg. He also has 8.0rpg and FGP: 55.3%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Aleks Maric (211-C-84) of Partizan - 19 points and 6 rebounds
5. Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80) of FMP - 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Lawrence Roberts (205-F/C-82) of Partizan - 13 points, 15 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Milan Macvan (205-F-89) of Hemofarm - 11 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Mile Ilic (215-C-84) of Metalac - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Vuk Radivojevic (197-G-83) of Crvena Zvez. - 10 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists
10. Lester McCalebb (183-G-85) of Partizan - 14 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists

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SLOVENIA

Barovic receives Slovenian citizenship - by Zeljko Zule
Slovenian U-20 NT head coach Radomir Mijanovic has invited 16 players for a training camp in Rogla. Following the completion of the camp and the games, Mijanovic will announce the roster for a 2010 U-20 European Championship in Croatia.
Montengrin-born Davor Barovic (210-C-90) is eligible to play for Slovenia after he was granted full Slovenian citizenship while Bosnian Simo Atanackovic (205-F-90) is waiting to secure citizenship to be able to play for Slovenia.
GUARDS: Mirza Sarajlija (183-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) of Bosna, Uros Zadnik (187-G-90) of Geoplin Slovan, Maj Kovacevic

(190-G-90) of Krka, Nejc Kobal (183-G-91) of Parklji, Jure Pelko (190-G-90) of Zlatorog.
FORWARDS: Dino Muric

(199-F-90) of Parklji, Jakob Cebasek (198-G/F-91) of Parklji, Edo Muric (202-F-91) of Parklji, Marko Vranjkovic

(204-F/C-90) of MFC.2 Branik Primorac, Blaz Mahkovic

(194-F-90) of LTHcast Mercator, Simo Atanackovic (205-F-90) of Zlatorog.
CENTERS: Brane Lekic

(206-F/C-90) of Elektra Esotech, Aldin Delic (204-C-90) of Parklji, Davor Barovic of Branik Primorac, Nejc Buda (210-C-91) of Union Olimpija, Luka Dimec

(207-F/C-90) of Zlatorog.
Coach: Radomir Mijanovic . Assistant: Dalibor Damjanovic .

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SPAIN

SYRIA

VENEZUELA

Guaiqueries add Benson and Carmona, Orta gets nationality and joins Marinos - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Guaiqueries de Margarita decided to change things around and bring in the heavy machinery for the remainder of their LPB 2010 Semifinals series against Marinos de Anzoategui, as they signed PF and C Lee Benson (208-F/C-73) and SG and SF Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) from Puerto Rico, while Marinos de Anzoategui added Puerto Rican Raul Orta (196-G-85) to their roster as Orta was finally granted his Venezuelan passport.

Benson and Carmona had been playing in Puerto Rico's BSN. Benson has played before in the country for Guaros de Lara and Marinos de Anzoategui and will be replacing Evan Brock (204-F-84) in the active roster. Brock will remain in the country. Brock's numbers had been dropping, specially in the offensive end and that's why coach Tony Ruiz justified his decision of bringing Benson in. Meanwhile, Carmona, a solid scorer, will replace Kelvin Pena (193-G-81), who's been battling with a left knee injury that's made him play with pain.

Guaiqueries's chances of making it to the Finals for the first time since 2007 have dramatically decreased due to the fact that their PG, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85), has a right biceps injury that will keep him off the court.

Orta had trained with Marinos in the preseason but his Venezuelan documents had not been confirmed yet by the legal authorities and he was unable to play in the regular season. He's now officially both Venezuelan and Puerto Rican so he was assigned #10 in the active roster.

LPB 2010 - Semifinals (May 21st): Marinos gets ahead against Guaiqueries - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Marinos de Anzoategui began its quest for a spot in its second consecutive LPB Finals series by taking down Guaiqueries de Margarita with full strength as hosts at Luis Ramos Arena of Puerto La Cruz. The other series between Cocodrilos de Caracas will being next Saturday.

SEMIFINALS B (Marinos leads 1-0)
Marinos de Anzoategui 104 - Guaiqueries de Margarita 82
Ciudad de La Asuncion Arena - La Asuncion, Nueva Esparta

Quarter by quarter
MAR: 20-25-28-31= 104
GUAI: 21-15-26-20= 82

Scorers
MAR: Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 17 points and 11 rebounds, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 16 points and 6 assists, Hatila Passos (211-C-86) 15 points and 6 rebounds, Hector Romero (202-F-80) 14 points, Donta Smith (201-G-83) 14 points, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 11 points and 5 assists, Raul Orta (196-G-85) 7 points, Orien Greene (193-G-82) 4 points, Adan Reyes (183-G-83) 4 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 2 points, Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) 0 points, Leonardo Cappare (186-G-80) 0 points
GUAI: Christopher Jackson (208-C-81) 28 points, 13 rebounds and 3 blocks, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 11 points, Kelvin Pena (193-G-81) 10 points, Evan Brock (204-F-84) 6 points and 2 blocks, Cesar Silva (187-G/F-81) 5 points, Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) 5 points, Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) 4 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 4 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 4 points, Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) 3 points, Rene Farias (188-G-86) 2 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 0 points

LPB 2010 - Semifinals (May 23rd): Cocodrilos climbs to 2-0 with home rout - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas were able to get a comfortable 2-0 lead in their LPB 2010 Semifinals series by enjoying a big Sunday afternoon as hosts of Gaiteros del Zulia in a 20-plus points rout.

SEMIFINALS A (Cocodrilos leads 2-0)
Cocodrilos de Caracas 97 - Gaiteros del Zulia 75
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
COC: 18-24-26-29= 97
GAI: 8-19-23-25= 75

Scorers
COC: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 17 points and 12 rebounds, Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80) 16 points, Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84) 12 points and 2 blocks, Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 11 points and 2 blocks, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 9 points, Carl Elliott (193-G-83) 8 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 7 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 6 points, Jhoyfer Diaz (196-F-87) 5 points, Windy Graterol (204-C-86) 4 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 2 points, Robert Palacios 0 points
GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 12 points, Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) 12 points, TomJim Colina (186-G-77) 12 points, Kervin Bracho (204-F/C-78) 10 points and 6 rebounds, Ronnie Fields (193-G-77) 7 points, Johan Pinero (183-G-76) 7 points, Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81) 6 points and 8 rebounds, Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85) 4 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 3 points, Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-82) 2 points

LPB 2010 - Semifinals (May 22nd): Marinos up 2-0, Cocodrilos wins Game 1 against Gaiteros - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Marinos de Anzoategui continued its hot streak and won their second straight home match against Guaiqueries de Margarita with another comfortable margin, while Cocodrilos de Caracas had to sweat a little bit, but was still able to take down Gaiteros del Zulia as hosts in Game 1 of their LPB 2010 Semifinals series..

SEMIFINALS A (Cocodrilos leads 1-0)
Cocodrilos de Caracas 94 - Gaiteros del Zulia 87
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
COC: 22-26-21-25= 94
GAI: 22-14-26-25= 87

Scorers
COC: Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 26 points and 8 rebounds, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 20 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists, Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80) 15 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 13 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 10 points, Carl Elliott (193-G-83) 10 points, Windy Graterol (204-C-86) 0 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 0 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 0 points, Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84) 0 points, Derson Santos (197-F-84) 0 points, Jhoyfer Diaz (196-F-87) 0 points
GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 28 points and 6 steals, Ronnie Fields (193-G-77) 16 points and 8 rebounds, Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) 13 points and 7 rebounds, Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85) 10 points, Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81) 8 points and 6 rebounds, Kervin Bracho (204-F/C-78) 7 points, Johan Pinero (183-G-76) 5 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 0 points, Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-82) 0 points, TomJim Colina (186-G-77) 0 points

SEMIFINALS B (Marinos leads 2-0)
Marinos de Anzoategui 99 - Guaiqueries de Margarita 71
Ciudad de La Asuncion Arena - La Asuncion, Nueva Esparta

Quarter by quarter
MAR: 29-20-19-31= 99
GUAI: 21-11-18-21= 71

Scorers
MAR: Hector Romero (202-F-80) 19 points and 12 rebounds, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 16 points, Orien Greene (193-G-82) 13 points, Donta Smith (201-G-83) 11 points, Raul Orta (196-G-85) 10 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 8 points and 6 rebounds, Hatila Passos (211-C-86) 6 points, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 6 points and 5 assists, Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) 5 points, Leonardo Cappare (186-G-80) 3 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 2 points and 6 rebounds, Adan Reyes (183-G-83) 0 points
GUAI: Kelvin Pena (193-G-81) 18 points, Cesar Silva (187-G/F-81) 12 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 10 points, Christopher Jackson (208-C-81) 8 points and 9 rebounds, Evan Brock (204-F-84) 7 points, Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) 6 points, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 5 points, Rene Farias (188-G-86) 3 points, Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) 2 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 0 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 0 points, Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) 0 points

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Women News

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

BELARUS - Women

Berezina ties the Final series again - by Eurobasket News
Berezina and Minsk-2006 are tied again after 4 games played in the Final. The decisive Game 5 will name the winner of the country and should bring even more interest than 4 previous games.
In game 4 Berezina won over Minsk 2006 79:67. The hosts opened the game with 18-9 lead and lost only two points at the second period. Both teams went to the lockers for 36:28 as the hosts controlled the game. In the third period Berezina even pushed the tempo as they produced 23-10 in it. Minsk managed to win the last period 29-18, however could not catch up with the opponent. Alla Muravskaya (185-F-85) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Viktoria Hasper (193-C-88) nailed 17. Volha Isteletsova (188-F/C-88) brought her team 12, while Nadzeya Yakovits (182-F-90) followed them with 11. Viktoryia Pankova (184-F-93) produced 10, Antonina Annenkova (178-G-87) delivered 5 and Kalento scored 3. Volha Padabed (174-G-79) responded with 14 points in the losing effort. Anzhela Duboiskaya (187-F-73) and Yuliya Scharbakova (172-G-85) followed her with 13 points each, while Harelchyk Viktoryia scored 12.
Actually the score was tied three times in the game. The biggest lead was plus 25 for the hosts.

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

BELGIUM - Women

BC Namur-Capitale build up roster - by Eurobasket News
BC Namur-Capitale started to fill in roster spots for the upcoming season. The team has already agreed on terms of contract with five players.
Oksana Agabalova (186-F-73) will play for the team in the next season. The veteran forward played for Dexia in the previous season. She tallied 14.2 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game in D1. In EuroCup Agabalova averaged 12.1 points, 5.9 rebounds and 3.0 assists.
BC Namur-Capitale also ensured the services of Stephanie Dubuc (175-F/G-85, agency: LBM Management). The 25-year-old guard/forward had a solid season with Dexia. She notched 13.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.1 steals per appearance. In EuroCup her stats read 10.1 points, 2.5 boards, 2.0 assists and 1.9 steals.
Sarah Deneil (168-G-90) has renewed her contract with the team. Last season the 20-year-old guard scored 7.6 points, grabbed 1.9 rebounds and made 2.1 steals per game.
Sarah Dochez (181-F-89) also prolonged her relationship with BC Namur-Capitale. Dochez accounted for 8.2 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.8 blocks last season.
BC Namur-Capitale also extended the contract of Sophie Bottriaux.

Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Dennett

Deyaert

Meeseman

Hendrickx

Moore

Player of the Year: Melissa Dennett (188-F-83) of Sint Kateline
Guard of the Year: Julie Vanloo (174-G-93) of Waregem
Forward of the Year: Melissa Dennett (188-F-83) of Sint Kateline
Center of the Year: Sofie Hendrickx (186-F/C-86) of Sint Kateline * plays at both power forward and center positions
Bosman Player of the Year: Emmelie Geraedts (190-F/C-85) of Houthalen
Import Player of the Year: Melissa Dennett (188-F-83) of Sint Kateline
Domestic Player of the Year: Sofie Hendrickx (186-F/C-86) of Sint Kateline
Defensive Player of the Year: Jana Raman (183-F-91) of Waregem
Coach of the Year: Arvid Diels of Sint Kateline

1st Team
F: Melissa Dennett (188-83) of Sint Kateline
F: Nele Deyaert (186-79) of Waregem
C/F: Emma Meeseman (188-93) of Ieper
F/C: Sofie Hendrickx (186-86) of Sint Kateline
C: Keisha Moore (189-83) of R.Spirou M.

2nd Team
G: Julie Vanloo (174-93) of Waregem
F: Jana Raman (183-91) of Waregem
C: Corina Arts (184-76) of BBC Boom
C: Tamara Van Respaille (186-77) of Waregem
C: Jennifer Fleischer (195-84) of Dexia

Honorable Mention
Eveline Decroos (184-F-84) of BBC Boom
Lakisha Freeman (185-F-86) of Point Chaud
Lieselot Malfait (190-C-87) of Jeugd Gentson
Oksana Agabalova (186-F-73) of Dexia
Romina Ciappina (180-F/G-88) of Dexia
Emmelie Geraedts (190-F/C-85) of Houthalen
Miete Celus (175-G/F-91) of Sint Kateline
Nina Crelot (170-G/F-87) of Point Chaud

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Julie Vanloo (174-93) of Waregem
F/G: Romina Ciappina (180-88) of Dexia
F: Nele Deyaert (186-79) of Waregem
F/C: Sofie Hendrickx (186-86) of Sint Kateline
C/F: Emma Meeseman (188-93) of Ieper

All-Imports Team * includes also Bosman players
F: Melissa Dennett (188-83) of Sint Kateline
F: Lakisha Freeman (185-86) of Point Chaud
F/C: Emmelie Geraedts (190-85) of Houthalen
C: Jennifer Fleischer (195-84) of Dexia
C: Keisha Moore (189-83) of R.Spirou M.

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BULGARIA - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket

Perostiyska

Likhtarovich

Byears

Mihalkova

Doychinova

Player of the Year: Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82) of Lukoil
Guard of the Year: Tatsiana Likhtarovich (180-F/G-88) of Lukoil * plays at both shooting guard and small forward positions
Forward of the Year: Latasha Byears (184-F-73) of Beroe 2007
Center of the Year: Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82) of Lukoil
Bosman Player of the Year: Tatsiana Likhtarovich (180-F/G-88) of Lukoil
Import Player of the Year: Latasha Byears (184-F-73) of Beroe 2007
Domestic Player of the Year: Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82) of Lukoil
Defensive Player of the Year: Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82) of Lukoil
Coach of the Year: Peter Marinov of Lukoil

1st Team
F/G: Tatsiana Likhtarovich (180-88) of Lukoil
F: Latasha Byears (184-73) of Beroe 2007
F: Kamelia Mihalkova (182-80) of Minor
F: Agnesa Doychinova (188-73) of Montana 2003
C: Vera Perostiyska (196-82) of Lukoil

2nd Team
G: Radmila Nesheva (172-81) of Minor
G: Angela Tisdale (170-85) of Lukoil
G: Charel Allen (181-86) of Dunav
F: Zhaneta Zhelyova (182-75) of Montana 2003
F/C: Danielle Burgin (196-87) of Dunav

Honorable Mention
Ivelina Vrancheva (175-G-80) of Montana 2003
Daniela Peteva (179-F-89) of Dunav
Svetlana Asenova (190-F-74) of Minor
Ralitsa Naneva (178-F-86) of Beroe 2007
Elena Yolovska (183-F-74) of Dunav
Frida Aili (179-G-88) of Lukoil
Zoia Stanoeva (182-F-76) of Montana 2003

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Radmila Nesheva (172-81) of Minor
G: Ivelina Vrancheva (175-80) of Montana 2003
F: Kamelia Mihalkova (182-80) of Minor
F: Agnesa Doychinova (188-73) of Montana 2003
C: Vera Perostiyska (196-82) of Lukoil

All-Imports Team
G: Angela Tisdale (170-85) of Lukoil
G: Charel Allen (181-86) of Dunav
F: Latasha Byears (184-73) of Beroe 2007
F/C: Danielle Burgin (196-87) of Dunav

All-Bosmans Team
G: Frida Aili (179-88) of Lukoil
G: Natalia Anufryienka (174-85) of Dunav
G: Anna Sokolan (178-84) of Lukoil
F/G: Tatsiana Likhtarovich (180-88) of Lukoil

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FYR MACEDONIA - Women

Mladinec takes the championship title from Vigor! - by Eurobasket News
Playoff Finals, Game 3: Vigor - Mladinec 50-60 (1-3)

Mladinec finished the season in style. They managed to beat Vigor third consecutive time and to win the championship title in FYROM. In third game, which was played at the Vigors home court, Mladinec celebrated 50-60 victory for 1-3 victory in the Finals. It means that Vigors domination in the country is stopped. They won last three titles, but this time Mladinec will keep this trophy for at least a year.
Vigor was the regular season champion with perfect 15-0 record. They eliminated Naronkon in the Semifinals (2-0) and entered to Finals series with 1-0. Mladinec on the other hand finished the regular season as No.2 with 11-4 score. In the Semis they outplayed Biljana after three games (2-1). Despite they entered to Finals series with 0-1, Mladinec managed to beat Vigor on the road in Game One 53-64 and to tie the score to 1-1. That was a surprise and it was expected that Vigor will recover and show why they came to Finals undefeated. But that did not happen. Mladinec celebrated in Game two at home 60-59 and Vigor was in trouble. Still, they had Game Three on their own court and it was a chance for the first win in the Finals, but Mladinec was on the other side. Mladinec stopped the hosts to 50 points for the game, scoring ten more on the other side. This is the first title for Mladinec in recent history.

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GERMANY - Women

Wolfenbuettel bring in new coach - by Eurobasket News
Wolfenbuettel have hired a new head coach. Vlastibor Klimes will guide the Wildcats in the upcoming season. The 57-yearold specialist has already worked with Wolfenbuettel back in 2003-04 season. However it was the Dukes team from mens 2Bundesliga. Later Vlastibor Klimes moved to Goettingen. He was at the helm of the DBBL side during three straight seasons.

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IRELAND - Women

IRISH U-18'S SET FOR US TOUR - by Jolie Niland
By Shane Whelan

Irelands Under-18 Womens squad return to the USA this summer to participate in a number of AAU tournaments following the successful trip of 2009.

The Irish will once again be in good hands with vastly experienced Coach Bill Cardarelli taking charge of the squad for the two week tour.

Cardarellis impressive CV includes a Head Coaching role at the famous St Josephs College, while he was assistant to the mens team at the University of Connecticut. Bill has a long association with Ireland and is a former assistant coach for the senior womens national team. In 2004, he was an Inductee into the New England Basketball Hall of Fame.
In 2009, he marshaled the Irish Under-18s for their last visit to the US, and he believes their latest excursion to Penn State will provide invaluable experience.

If it is anything like 2009 then the team is in for a special experience, said Cardarelli. The players get exposure to playing in AAU tournaments and a chance to work with American coaches. The trip also gives the squad a chance to bond. The opportunity is similar to playing in the Europeans with so many games in such a short space of time.

The schedule is very tough and players will be pretty tired but they get so much out of the experience, he added. I have seen players last year improving and they are responding to playing and training to a strict schedule.

On top of the basketball, the players are proving quite a hit with the locals with the Irish American relationship proving as strong as ever.

They are treated like rock stars. Everyone wanted to talk to the Irish kids last year, which I suppose is no surprise given they estimate that around 50 million Americans have Irish heritage. One of the main reasons I am involved is down to how well the players represent themselves and their country when they are abroad.

The AAU Tournament was established in 1888 and now caters to over 30,000 age division events. AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) is one of the largest, non-profit, volunteer, sports organizations in the United States. The Under 18 Womens squad can be followed on Twitter and Facebook as well as YouTube for updates during the Tournament.

IRISH UNDER 18 WOMENS SQUAD
U18 Girls Coaching Staff
Head Coach; Bill Carderelli
Assistant Coach; Jenny Coady
Assistant Coach; Lisa Kenny

Squad
Emma Tarbett Meteors
Clodagh Scannell Glanmire
Rebecca OKeeffe Tolka Rovers
Eimear Browne Meteors
Siobhain Power Waterford Wildcats
Casey Grace Glanmire
Stephaine O' Sullivan Glanmire
Leah Cunningham Moycullen
Ciara Newell Claregalway
Catriona Foley Maree
Rheanne O'Shea St Paul's Killarney
Laura Moloney St Paul's Killarney
Karen Meany Meteors
Caoimhe Colgan Tyrone Towers
Tessa Solan Meteors
Helena Rohan Waterford Wildcats
Reserve: Alison Keech Drimnagh Dynamos
Coach in Training Programme - Jade Daly (Killester)

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ITALY - Women

Other market news - Umbertide signs a big trio - by Carlo Grilli
Ambitious Umbertide announced Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) from Venezia, Francesca Zara (177-G-76, agency: Players Group) from Parma and Tamera Young (188-G-86, college: JMU) as renforces for next season.
Anyway, the Italian Serie A1 next season will lose two relevant players, both destinated to Ros Casares Valencia: Nuria Martinez Prat (176-G-84) form Geas Sesto San Giovanni and Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) from Taranto.
Parma returns on the overseas market signing Nyeshia Stevenson (175-G/F, college: Oklahoma), while Faenza (where coach Paolo Rossi renounced to the bench, replaced by Nino Molino ) agreed terms with Lauren Ervin (191-F-85, college: Arkansas).

Clarisse Machanguana signs with Basket Parma - by Eurobasket News
Mozambican Clarisse Machanguana (194-C/F-73, college: ODU) signs with Parma and will play for the next next season. The player arrives from Bracco Geas Sesto San Giovanni where she was the key player last season.
In 1998 Clarisse Machanguana started in NCAA and then moved to Charlotte Sting in WNBA. She has also experience in Korea and France. In year 2007 played for Fiera di Roma basket Pomezia and became the 5th top-scorer in the league. She averaged 16.0ppg ,Reb-4 (8.6rpg), 2.0spg, FGP: 55.0%, FT: 76.0%
IN 2008-2009 played for Geas Sesto San Giovanni and showed 11.4ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.1spg, FGP: 51.2%, FT: 72.3%. last season Bracco Geas Sesto San Giovanni enjoyed 24 games from the player as she averaged 15.3ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.2apg, 3.7spg, FGP: 51.0%, FT: 66.3%.
Clarisse Machanguana played last two games for her previous team versus Faenza in the 1-4 Finals. The latter celebrated 68-56 win against Bracco Geas in Game 1 of Serie A Quarterfinals. Geraldine Robert was the leading player in victory with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Adriana Pinto added 10 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Clarisse Machanguana replied with 15 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Faenza had to work very hard in order to beat Bracco Geas and to book a spot for the Playoff Semifinals. Adriana Pinto was a key player for Faenza with 23 points and 5 rebounds. Clarisse Machanguana delivered 19 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.

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KOSOVO - Women

Standings - Women

A1 Standings

1. Bashkimi		10-0
2. Penza		7-3
3. Trepca Mitr.		5-5
4. Drita		5-7
5. Sigal Prishtine		4-4
6. Vellaznimi		1-9

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MOZAMBIQUE - Women

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SLOVAKIA - Women

Katarina Tetemondova joins Ruzomberok - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok ensured the first big signing in the off-season. They agreed on terms of contract with Katarina Tetemondova (185-F-88). The 21-year-old forward spent the previous season in Poprad. Tetemondova averaged 13.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.3 steals and 1.6 assists per game. Katarina Tetemondova played for the Slovakian U18, U19 and U20 selections. She also travelled to Latvia to take part at the 2009 EuroBasket.

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WBCBL - Women

Lady Diesel Shift Gears from 20 points down to Win Home Openers - by Willie McCray
Dallas, TX

Women's Blue Chip Basketball League (www.wbcbl.com)
Lady Diesel (1-1)
91
Arkansas Starz (1-1)
89

The Lady Diesel overcame a 18 deficit late in the 3rd quarter to rally back for the win. Lady Diesel veteran 'Chantoya Hawkins' (5'5 Guard - Oklahoma State University) and newcomer 'Chelesa Palmer' (5'8 Guard - Collin County Community College), both scored 22 points each, to led the Lady Diesel.

For Game Schedule and other details, please visit www.DallasDiesel.com
Game Photos are available upon request.

Dallas Diesel Shift Gears from 20 points down to Win Home Openers - by Willie McCray
United Men's Basketball League (www.umbl.org)
Dallas Diesel (1-0)
94
Eldorado Allstars (0-1)
87

Dallas Diesel Highlights:
After being down 22 points at halftime, the Dallas Diesel shifted gears and went on a 30 - 8 run in the 3rd quarter to make up for a 1st-half shooting slump. The Diesel's Mario Simmons' 25 and Quinton Taylor's 22 points, led the charge to help capture the victory.

Note:
The next home game will be June 19th at 1p and 2:30p against the Shreveport Sting. All Dallas Diesel 'Home' games are played at the First Baptist Church of Richardson - 1001 North Central Expressway, (at 75 & Arapaho Rd) in Richardson.

For Game Schedule and other details, please visit www.DallasDiesel.com
Game Photos are available upon request.

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WNBA - Women

Sunday's games (4) review - by Eurobasket News
Washington M. - Connecticut S. 65-80
The transgressions of the Connecticut Sun were so bad Friday in Atlanta that coach Mike Thibault said he hadn't seen anything so bad in 40 years of basketball. That's a lot of missed assignments and turnovers to sift through. If nothing else, the Sun needed to make peace with their coach Sunday against the Washington Mystics by piecing things back together. And that's what they did. The Sun used an 18-1 run beginning late in the third quarter to pound the previously unbeaten Mystics, 80-65. Connecticut was led by Tan White (5'7''-G-82, college: Mississippi St.), who scored 15 points (4 of 5 on three-pointers), Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (5'10''-G-83) had 14 points and Kara Lawson (5'8''-G-81, college: Tennessee) and Kelsey Griffin (6'2''-F-87, college: Nebraska) 11 each. Tina Charles had 10 points and eight rebounds. Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) led the Mystics with 16 points and eight rebounds. The Sun play again Thursday at the Mohegan Sun Arena, facing former teammate Lindsay Whalen and the Minnesota Lynx. It is possible Ashja Jones, out since late last season with a sore left Achilles', will be available for the Sun. Courtesy of www.courant.com

Tulsa S. - Minnesota L. 94-82
Tulsa coach Nolan Richardson's vaunted pressure defense might finally be catching on with the Shock. Plenette Pierson (6'2''-F/C-81, college: Texas Tech) and Shavonte Zellous (5'10''-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) each scored 14 points to help Tulsa earn its first victory of the season with a 94-82 win over the Minnesota Lynx on Sunday night. Chante Black had 10 points and 17 rebounds for the Shock, which led by as many as 21 in the third quarter en route to the franchise's first win since relocating to Tulsa in the offseason. Scholanda Robinson (5'10''-G-83, college: LSU) and Amber Holt each scored 12 points for the Shock (1-2). Minnesota's Charde Houston (6'1''-F-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 23 points to lead four Lynx players in double figures. Lindsay Whalen finished with 16 points. Nicky Anosike (6'3''-C-86, college: Tennessee) added 15 and Monica Wright scored 11. *Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Atlanta D. - New York L. 86-77
Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) scored 21 points, Erika DeSouza (6'6''-C-82) had 15 points and 10 rebounds, and the Atlanta Dream remained undefeated with an 86-77 victory over the host New York Liberty on Sunday. Iziane Castro Marques (6'0''-G/F-82) scored nine of her 13 points in the final 5 minutes for Atlanta (4-0), which is off to the best start in the franchise's three-year history. Alison Bales also had 10 rebounds to help the Dream remain one of two unbeaten teams left, along with Seattle (3-0). Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) scored 21 points to lead New York (1-2), which has lost consecutive games after winning its opener. *Courtesy of www.vcstar.com

Chicago S. - Indiana F. 61-69
Shaya Murphy (5'11''-G/F-85, college: USC) had 16 points and nine rebounds to lead the Indiana Fever to a 69-61 victory over the Chicago Sky on Sunday night. Tamika Catchings finished with 13 points and Jene Morris (5'9''-G-87, college: San Diego St.) and Briann January (5'8''-G-87, college: Arizona St.) each scored 12 for the Fever, who beat Chicago for the second straight day to improve to 2-2. Indiana is 13-4 all-time against the Sky and 8-1 at Conseco Fieldhouse. Cathrine Kraayeveld (6'4''-F-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon) had 11 points and Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) added 10 points and nine rebounds for the Sky (0-4), who have lost their four games by a combined 30 points. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com