At the same time, Crvena Zvezda extended contracts with Dusan Katnic (195-G-89, agency: Beo Basket), Stevan Jelovac (207-F/C-89, agency: BeoExcell), Boris Bakic (194-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Strahinja Dragicevic (203-F-86).


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ABA Standings

Big V  1. Ringwood H. 17-2   2. Diamond V.E. 16-3   3. Waverley F. 11-7   4. Hume City 8-10   5. Melbourne 8-11   6. Bulleen B. 6-13   7. Sherbrooke S. 5-13   8. Eltham W. 3-15  Central ABL  1. W.Adelaide B. 15-2   2. Norwood F. 13-4   3. Sturt S. 12-5   4. Forestville E. 11-6   5. N.Adelaide R. 11-6   6. Eastern M. 8-9   7. Woodville W. 7-10   8. S.Adelaide P. 4-13   9. South.Tigers 3-14   10. C.District L. 1-16  QBL  1. Mackay M. 12-1   2. Rockhampton 12-2   3. Northside W. 11-4   4. SW Metro P. 10-5   5. Townsville H. 10-5   6. Gold Coast G. 9-5   7. Cairns M. 8-6   8. Ipswich F. 7-7   9. Maroochydore 6-9   10. Gladstone P. 5-9   11. Bundaberg B. 5-10   12. Caboolture S. 3-11   13. Brisbane C. 3-12   14. Toowoomba 0-14  SEABL-East  1. Kilsyth C. 17-8   2. Bendigo B. 16-8   3. Brisbane S. 14-12   4. Knox R. 13-11   5. Ballarat M. 11-12   6. Dandenong 11-13   7. AIS 4-11   8. Canberra G. 3-20  SEABL-South  1. Nunawading S. 18-7   2. Sandringham S. 17-8   3. Geelong S. 16-9   4. Hobart C. 16-9   5. NW Tasmania 13-12   6. Mt Gambier 10-14   7. Frankston B. 8-16   8. Albury W.B. 4-20  WARATAH  1. Manly Warr. 15-3   2. Parramatta W. 13-5   3. Maitland M. 11-6   4. Sydney C. 11-7   5. Bankstown B. 11-8   6. Newcastle H. 10-7   7. Norths Bears 8-10   8. Hornsby S. 7-10   9. Hills H. 6-12   10. Sutherland S. 5-12   11. Canberra N. 1-20

Austria U20 - Norway U20 61:56

Austria stayed in the tight race for the semifinal birth at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Tonight the hosts held off pesky Norway to improve at 4-0 record on top of Qualifying Round Group F. Norway in the meantime slipped at 1-3 record after the loss. Moritz Lanegger (188-G-90, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 points to pace Austria.
Norway opened the game with a 7:2 run but Austria quickly bounce back. The hosts denied the deficit and posted an 18:12 lead ten minutes into the game. The low-scoring second term allowed the hosts to enlarge the lead to 7 points as they headed into the dressing room up 27:20. Aksel Bolinz (206-F-90) and Anders Stien (195-G-90) dragged the Scandinavian team within one midway through the third quarter 30:31. Norway trailed by only a single points with ten minutes remaining 39:40. Anders Stien and Mjoes gave Norway a 50:46 advantage midway through the fourth term. The visitors were still up by one 56:55 with 42 seconds to go in regulation. But Moritz Lanegger and Maresch went deadly from the stripe snatching the victory for Austria.
Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) and Erik Fruhwirth (204-C-91) nailed 11 points each for the winners. Anders Stien answered with 21 points for Norway. Aksel Bolinz finished with 10 points in the loss.

Austria U20: Moritz Lanegger 13, Rasid Mahalbasic 11, Erik Fruhwirth 11
Norway U20: Anders Stien 21, Aksel Bolinz 10

Denmark U20 - Belarus U20 71:70

Denmark opened their Qualifying round of U20 European Championship in Division B campaign with victory. Mads Christensen team narrowly defeated Belarus to improve at 1-1 record in Group G. Belarus on the other hand slipped at 1-1. Jonas Bergstedt (207-C-91) and Thomas Laerke (193-F-91) stepped up with 15 points each to lead Denmark.
The teams kept it close in the opening quarter. Mads Frandsen (202-F/C-90) and Wang capped the period with four points as Denmark earned a 24:18 lead. Mathias Seilund (201-F-90) and Elsner helped the Scandinavians to open a double-digit lead early in the second term. Belarus narrowed the distance to just three points late in the half but Denmark crowned it with 6 points in a row to take a 44:35 advantage into the dressing room. Jonas Bergstedt and Mathias Seilund gave Denmark an 11-point lead midway through the third term. Belarus once again revived intrigue as they pulled within 6 points at the final break 51:57. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau (206-F-91) and Ihnatchyk helped Belarus to get in front 68:67 with just 64 seconds to go. Thomas Laerke came up with timely four points to return Denmark into the drivers seat. Mikalai Salauyou (190-G-91) received the chance to force overtime when he went to the line for three free throws. But he made just two and Denmark escaped with a narrow win at the end.
Mathias Seilund notched 14 points and 6 rebounds for Denmark. Mads Frandsen added 11 points and 11 caroms for the winners. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau, Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91), Mikalai Salauyou, Siarhei Hancharonak (204-C-91) and Maksim Dabravolski (198-G-91) nailed 10 points each for Belarus.

Denmark U20: Jonas Bergstedt 15, Thomas Laerke 15, Mathias Seilund 14
Belarus U20: Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau 10, Mikalai Salauyou 10


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BELGIUM

Belgium shoot down Slovak Republic - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U20 - Slovak Republic U20 82:76

Belgium earned the first win at the Qualifying Round of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Thomas De Thaey (197-F-91) scored 20 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead Belgium. Paul Vervaeck team improved at 1-3 record in Group F, while Slovak Republic slipped at 0-4.
Belgium stunned Slovak Republic early in the encounter. They grabbed a 16:5 lead midway through the opening quarter. Slovak Republic however narrowed the gap to just four points 17:21 at the first break. Pierre-Antoine Gillet (200-G-91) helped Belgium to open an 11-point advantage late in the first half. But Andrej Kuffa (203-F-90) drained a triple to cap the half as Slovak Republic trailed by 8 points into the locker rooms. Slovak Republic trimmed the deficit to a single point early in the third term. The teams kept it close but Belgium managed to remain on top as they led by three points with ten minutes to go 62:65. Rademakers and Pierre-Antoine Gillet boosted the margin at 10-point mark early in the fourth period. Slovak Republic stayed hopeful as they cut the distance to four points with under two minutes to go. But Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) exploded with back-to-back three-pointers in the dying seconds to seal the win for Belgium.
Dennis Donkor finished with 19 points for Belgium. Pierre-Antoine Gillet added 18 points in the victory. Andrej Kuffa answered with 16 points for Slovak Republic. Marek Jass (194-G-90) finished with 13 points and 6 rebounds in the loss.

Belgium U20: Thomas De Thaey 20, Dennis Donkor 19, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 18
Slovak Republic U20: Andrej Kuffa 16, Marek Jass 13


Belgium prove strength against Canada - by Eurobasket News
Belgium - Canada 76:67
Belgium celebrated victory over Canada in the exhibition encounter. The teams clashed at the Lotto Arena in Antwerp, Belgium. The hosts claimed a 9-point victory at the end. Yannick Driesen (215-C-88) led the charge with 17 points and 10 rebounds.
Belgium earned a 7:4 lead midway through the opening quarter. But Canada recovered and grabbed a 15:12 advantage at the first intermission. The lead changed hands throughout the second term. Canada turned out winners of the first half 38:35. They stretched the margin to 6 points midway through the third stanza. But the hosts eked out a narrow 51:49 lead with ten minutes to go in the game. The home side stepped on the gas in the final period. Belgium notched 25 points and ran away for the victory at the end. Doum Lauwers produced 15 points for Belgium. Kristof Ongenaet (203-F-85, college: Syracuse) added 13 points in the victory. Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86, college: Michigan) answered with 19 points and 11 rebounds for Canada. Denham Brown (198-F-83, college: Connecticut) accounted for 17 points in the loss.

Belgium: Yannick Driesen 17+10 boards, Doum Lauwers 15, Kristof Ongenaet 13
Canada: Jevohn Shepherd 19+11 boards, Denham Brown 17


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BULGARIA

Lyubomir Minchev is the new head coach of Cherno more - by Maria Mitzova
Lyubomir Minchev is the new head coach for BC Euroins-Cherno More Varna. He signed a two-year deal with the club vice-president Simeon Varchev. Minchev takes the position after Daniel Dimitrov was released couple of weeks ago.
Lyubomir Minchev has good experience, having started his coaching carrier, leading the top two Bulgarian National Team U18 teams PBC Lukoil Akademik Sophia and BC Levski Sophia.
During his carrier he has been a part of the Bulgarian National Team U18 Men national teams, mainly as a scout and assistant coach. Right now, he is a head coach of the Bulgarian National Team U18, and is on the way to the European championship in Lithuania. After his championship, he will join again the Men NT, to be an assistant of Rosen Barchovski in the Euro qualifications.


Cajasol signs Kaloyan Ivanov to a two-year contract - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol announced signing of a two-year deal Kaloyan Ivanov (205-F-86). The Bulgarian National Team player arrives to Seville from Manresa, where he spent last season. Ivanov appeared 33 times in ACB averaging 8.1 points and 6.1 rebounds. His team finished as No.12 with 14-20 record.
Before Manresa, Kaloyan Ivanov spent three years with Vive Menorca. He arrived there in 2006 from Cherno More. In his last with Menorca, Ivanov had 4.8 ppg and 5.8 rpg for 29 games. Unfortunately, the team was relegated to LEB Gold. In the past, Ivanov also was a member of Avtodor Saratov, Levski Sophia and Dunav Russe.
From 2005, Kaloyan Ivanov is active member of the Bulgarian National Team. He appeared five times in Poland last summer collecting 8.2 ppg and 4.4 rpg. Ivanov also shined for Bulgaria during the EuroBasket Qualifications. In the past, Ivanov was a member of U18 and U02 Bulgaria.
Recently, Cajasol has brought in Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.). The player arrived from Xacobeo BS.

Bulgaria U20 needed 22-4 in the last 5 minutes to beat Israel U20 - by Eurobasket News
Israel U20-Bulgaria U20 57:62

Bulgaria U20 proves the ambitions for the top places and beat Israel U20 in the last game of the Group E on Tuesday. Bulgarian team rolled over Israel 62:57 at the European Championship Division B.
Both teams exchanged the baskets int he opening quarter, while Bulgaria took the minimum lead after 10 minutes, 17:15. Kyosev scored for 24:17 but Shiran tied the game at 26:26. Aleksandar Georgiev (203-F-90) remained Bulgaria in front after the first half at 32:27. Cohen brought 36:36, while Israel held off the opponents scoreless for about 7 minutes. Ariely scored for 43:36 as Israel won the quarter 16-4. Shiran made it 53:40 with about 6 minutes in the quarter, but Israel failed in the end. Bulgaria produced 22-4 in the last 5 minutes to remain undefeated. Aleksandar Georgiev made just one free throw out of four but it was enough for 62:57 win.
Hristo Zahariev (197-G/F-90) paced all the winners with 14 points. Aleksandar Georgiev and Tihomir Zhelev (192-G-90) followed him with 12 points each for 4-0 record. Yotam Shiran (198-F-90, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) ended up with 18 points in defeat and Assaf Ohana (182-G-91) scored 10.

Israel U20: Yotam Shiran 18, Assaf Ohana 10
Bulgaria U20: Hristo Zahariev 14, Aleksandar Georgiev 12, Tihomir Zhelev 12

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CANADA

Belgium prove strength against Canada - by Eurobasket News
Belgium - Canada 76:67
Belgium celebrated victory over Canada in the exhibition encounter. The teams clashed at the Lotto Arena in Antwerp, Belgium. The hosts claimed a 9-point victory at the end. Yannick Driesen (215-C-88) led the charge with 17 points and 10 rebounds.
Belgium earned a 7:4 lead midway through the opening quarter. But Canada recovered and grabbed a 15:12 advantage at the first intermission. The lead changed hands throughout the second term. Canada turned out winners of the first half 38:35. They stretched the margin to 6 points midway through the third stanza. But the hosts eked out a narrow 51:49 lead with ten minutes to go in the game. The home side stepped on the gas in the final period. Belgium notched 25 points and ran away for the victory at the end. Doum Lauwers produced 15 points for Belgium. Kristof Ongenaet (203-F-85, college: Syracuse) added 13 points in the victory. Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86, college: Michigan) answered with 19 points and 11 rebounds for Canada. Denham Brown (198-F-83, college: Connecticut) accounted for 17 points in the loss.

Belgium: Yannick Driesen 17+10 boards, Doum Lauwers 15, Kristof Ongenaet 13
Canada: Jevohn Shepherd 19+11 boards, Denham Brown 17


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CHINA

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

Stage Two A  1. Jiangsu 11-2   2. Sichuan 11-2   3. Changan Group 9-4   4. Guangzhou FM 7-6   5. Hangzhou 6-7   6. W.Liaoning 6-8   7. Whampoa 6-8   8. ShenYang 5-9   9. Heilongjiang 3-10   10. Jiyuan 3-11  Stage One  1. Anhui NS 0-0   2. Guangxi 0-0   3. Hebei 0-0   4. Hill 0-0   5. Hong Kong 0-0   6. Hubei 0-0   7. Liaoning 3C 0-0   8. Ningxia Hanas 0-0

China Loses to Lithuania in Third Game of Exhibition Series - by Arthur Volbert
China lost to Lithuania 79-68 in the third game of this exhibition series. China fell behind 27-10 in the first quarter though it outplayed Lithuania the rest of the game. These games must be thought of this way because they are only practice for the FIBA World Championship.

Wang Shipeng led China with 16 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Jin Lipeng (190-G-78), battling for a reserve point guard position, had 14 points and 1 rebound in 21 minutes. Yu Shulong, battling for the same position, had 4 points and 2 rebounds in 14 minutes. Neither player had an assist but Jin had 3 turnovers and Yu had none. We await Guo Ailun's joining this contest.



Su Wei had 8 points and 5 rebounds in 22 minutes and, off his performance in these 3 games, he could see significant minutes in the World Championship. Zhang Xiaoxu, his competition for backup center, did not play. Tang Zhengdong is injured. Wang Zhizhi had 6 points and 3 rebounds in 22 minutes. Ding Jinhui had 7 points and 2 rebounds in 16 minutes and appears to have earned a backup forward spot.

Link to box score:
http://cba.sports.sina.com.cn/look_scores.php?m_id=4699


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COSTA RICA

Standings - D1

LBS Standings

1. Barva 17-1   2. ARBA San Ram. 15-3   3. Escazu 12-6   4. Liceo 11-7   5. UCR 8-10   6. Perez Zeledon 4-14   7. Cartago 3-15   8. San Luis G. 2-16

Barva and ARBA towards the Finals - by Gianni Pascucci
After winning 20-0 over Perez Zeledon due to forfeit, Ferreteria Brenes Barva won on the road, 95-75 over Liceo de Costa Rica, confirming its 2010 supremacy in this 'battle of giants'. The game top performer was Clifford Smith (193-G-80, college: Barry), who scored 25 in losing effort. At this point of the season, Universidad de San Jose ARBA San Ramon is the unanimopus choice for the other team to play the Finals with Barva. In last two games, San Ramon defeated UCR on the road, 62-51 and then destroyed San Luis Gonzaga 100-39. See here down all the results of the last two rounds:
ROUND 17
SAN LUIS GONZAGA 70 - ESCAZU 82
FERRETERIA BRENES BARVA 20 - PEREZ ZELEDON 0 forfeit
CARTAGO 59 - LICEO DE COSTA RICA 74
UNIVERSIDAD DE CR 51 - USJ ARBA 62
ROUND 18
LICEO DE COSTA RICA 75 - FERRETERIA BRENES BARVA 95
PEREZ ZELEDON 54 - UNIVERSIDAD DE CR 65
ESCAZU 104 - CARTAGO 59
USJ ARBA 100 - SAN LUIS GONZAGA 39

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CROATIA

Hrvoje Peric extends with Zadar - by Eurobasket News
BC Zadar has managed to extend one of its best players from the last season. The club has reached an agreement with Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85), who will continue to lead the team next year. Even though, the player has stated he wants to stay with the club, that was not as an easy task for Zadar's management. Reportedly, the player was owed salary for previous season, so that was one of conditions for extension. Club's management was able to fulfill obligations to Peric, so the deal was eventually concluded to both sides satisfaction. Peric, who is currently away with Croatian National Team, has expressed his happiness that he will be staying in Zadar.
Hrvoje Peric started his career in 2000 as member of A2 outfit Dubrovnik. Following season he moved to Plastik Split and that same year he was signed by Croatia Osiguranje. There, Peric continued to develop from year to year and in 5 seasons with the club he has become valuable part of the team. With Split, Peric has won National title in 2003 as well as National cup in 2004. 2007-2008 was Perics last season as member of Split and he has averaged 14.5 points and 5.1 rebounds per game in 22 league games. At the start of 2008-2009, Peric was snapped by BC Zadar on a two-year deal. In his debut season, he averaged 9.1 points and 4.9 rebounds in 13 league games. In Adriatic league, Peric played in 2 games and has averaged 10.2 points and 4.6 boards. This season, Peric averaged 17.5 points and 7.4 rebounds in 22 league games. His performance brought him individual rewards such as All-Croatian A1 League Forward of the Year and All-Croatian A1 League Most Improved Player of the Year.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Nymburk tab Adam Koch - by Eurobasket News
Nymburk have agreed on terms of contract with Adam Koch (203-F-88). The 22-year-old forward signed his first pro contract. Adam Koch just graduated from the Northern Iowa University. The forward tallied 11.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists in his senior season with the Panthers. Adam Koch was named the All-MVC Player of the Year in 2010.


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DENMARK

Denmark pip Belarus - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U20 - Belarus U20 71:70

Denmark opened their Qualifying round of U20 European Championship in Division B campaign with victory. Mads Christensen team narrowly defeated Belarus to improve at 1-1 record in Group G. Belarus on the other hand slipped at 1-1. Jonas Bergstedt (207-C-91) and Thomas Laerke (193-F-91) stepped up with 15 points each to lead Denmark.
The teams kept it close in the opening quarter. Mads Frandsen (202-F/C-90) and Wang capped the period with four points as Denmark earned a 24:18 lead. Mathias Seilund (201-F-90) and Elsner helped the Scandinavians to open a double-digit lead early in the second term. Belarus narrowed the distance to just three points late in the half but Denmark crowned it with 6 points in a row to take a 44:35 advantage into the dressing room. Jonas Bergstedt and Mathias Seilund gave Denmark an 11-point lead midway through the third term. Belarus once again revived intrigue as they pulled within 6 points at the final break 51:57. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau (206-F-91) and Ihnatchyk helped Belarus to get in front 68:67 with just 64 seconds to go. Thomas Laerke came up with timely four points to return Denmark into the drivers seat. Mikalai Salauyou (190-G-91) received the chance to force overtime when he went to the line for three free throws. But he made just two and Denmark escaped with a narrow win at the end.
Mathias Seilund notched 14 points and 6 rebounds for Denmark. Mads Frandsen added 11 points and 11 caroms for the winners. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau, Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91), Mikalai Salauyou, Siarhei Hancharonak (204-C-91) and Maksim Dabravolski (198-G-91) nailed 10 points each for Belarus.

Denmark U20: Jonas Bergstedt 15, Thomas Laerke 15, Mathias Seilund 14
Belarus U20: Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau 10, Mikalai Salauyou 10


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EL SALVADOR

Liga Elite starts this weekend - by Jaime Arevalo
The inaugural game of the first edition of Liga Elite de Baloncesto de El Salvador (LEBES) has been definitively scheduled for Saturday, July 24. The line up of the 2010 season is made of four teams, as follows:
UTEC
SAN MARCOS
LEONES
EXSAL

Each Team will meet all the other ones three times, for a 9 games regular season, then will start the playoffs, with Semifinals and Final Series best of five games

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EUROLEAGUE

Lietuvos Rytas keeps Steponas Babrauskas - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Steponas Babrauskas (196-G/F-84). The 26-year old small forward arrived to the club in 2008 from Legea Scafati Basket. In his first season with the Rytas, Babrauskas averaged 6.7 points and 1.9 rebounds for 15 EuroCup games. They managed to win this competition and to book a spot for Euroleague 2009/10. Babrauskas registered 9 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 26 games in LKL, where Rytas grabbed the title.
This season, Babrauskas had 7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. He also added 9.6 ppg and 3 rpg for 34 games in LKL. Rytas defended the Championship Title and National Cup this year.
Before Lietuvos Rytas, Steponas Babrauskas spent half of the season with Scafati and half with Cimberio Varese. That was 2007/08, when he had 5.8 ppg in LegaDue and 6.3 ppg in SerieA. Season 2006/08 Barbauskas spent with ASK Riga. He had 8.3 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 12 EuroCup games at that time. He also has experience from Belgium as a player of Leuven. Babrauskas played for Lietuvos Rytas for the first time on season 2003/04. Last summer, he played for the Lithuanian 'B' National Team.

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18

U18 European Championship Men 2010 - The Hellenic NT Final Roster - by Chris Mammides
Head Coach Georgios Vlassopoulos finally selected the following player to represent the Hellenic National Team for the European Championship which will be held between 22nd of July until the 1st of August in Vilnius, Lithuania:
Socratis Psaropoulos (191-G-92) Peristeri GS
Georgios Mavrogianis (193-G-92) Niki Volou
Ioannis Molfetas (193-G/F-92) Apolloniada
Spyridon Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) Peramatos
Thomas Tsalkitzis (191-G-92) Iraklis
Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (205-F-92) Aris
Nikolaos Kampouris (201-F/C-92) Olympiakos
Anastasios Antonakis (204-C/F-92) AEK
Petros Melissaratos (202-C/F-93) Alimos
Marios Dermitzakis (199-F-92) Elliniko
Efstathios Papadionysiou (200-F-92) Apollon Smyrnis
Alfa Agkimpou Ntiallo Fasengas 210-F/C-92 Gymnastikos Olympia Larissas


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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20

Div. B Day: 5 (Qualifying Round) - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Sweden - Portugal 87-79
The Scandinavian team improved to 3-1 at the the Qualifying round at the European Championship Division B. Sweden U20 beat Portugal U20 87:79 in Group E opener on Tuesday. Lindqvist nailed a three points in the opening tip, Andreas Person (188-G-91) needed two free throws to give Sweden 12:11. Lindell made a lay-up at the end of 10 minutes for 22:15 advantage. Portugal kept everything under control and did not allow the team from Sweden to go on a bigger lead. Joao Guerreiro (205-F-90) scored 5 points in a row for 24:23. Sweden however pushed the tempo at the end of the half and Zaghden sent the teams to the lockers for 30:37 halftime deficit. Christopher Czerapowicz (197-F-91) nailed three to open the second half and another two shots from the arc gave Sweden 59:39. After 63:44 Portugal created an 11-0 run to reduce the gap to 63:55. Nagwere gave Sweden 70:57 after thirty minutes and his three-pointer in the beginning of the last period brought 73:57. Portugal made a huge comeback as Barroso cut it to 80:77, but Ryan closed the game at 87:79 from the free throw line. Andreas Person poured in 21 points and Christopher Czerapowicz nailed 18. Joao Guerreiro ended up with 20 points in the losing effort. Tomas Barroso (180-G-90) and Diogo Correia (185-G-90) finished with 16 points each as their team dropped at 1-3.

Finland - Hungary 86-59
Finland U20 tied their record at 2-2 at the Qualifying round at the European Championship Division B. The team from Scandinavia overcame Hungary U20 86:59. Hungary started better and had 11:6 lead after the opening tip of the game. Finland replied with 8-0 and took 14:11 advantage. Roope Ahonen (186-G-90) made a jump shot for 26:17 lead. In the second period the team from Scandinavia produced 25-13 and Nuutinen gave Finland 51:30. The third frame also belonged to Finland that after 20-12 had 71:42. Alanen made two free throws at the end of thirty minutes for 71:40 lead. Toivonen score another jump shot at the very end for 73:40, while Mate Mohacsi scored two fro Hungary at 73:42 after three quarters. Sasu Salin (190-G-91) scored a three-pointer for 74:43 and then however Hungary made a comeback. Mate Mohacsi brought his side back to 79:55 with 4 minutes in the game. Malinen brought the last points for the winners as Finland overcame Hungary 86:59. Sasu Salin top-scored for the winners with 26 points as they celebrated the second win. Roope Ahonen and Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) netted 16 points apiece. Ferdinand Morgen (206-F/C-90) ended up with 19 points in the losing case. Takacs and Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) posted 9 points each in defeat.

Israel - Bulgaria 57-62
Bulgaria U20 proves the ambitions for the top places and beat Israel U20 in the last game of the Group E on Tuesday. Bulgarian team rolled over Israel 62:57 at the European Championship Division B. Both teams exchanged the baskets int he opening quarter, while Bulgaria took the minimum lead after 10 minutes, 17:15. Vasil Kyosev (195-G-90) scored for 24:17 but Shiran tied the game at 26:26. Aleksandar Georgiev (203-F-90) remained Bulgaria in front after the first half at 32:27. Cohen brought 36:36, while Israel held off the opponents scoreless for about 7 minutes. Ariely scored for 43:36 as Israel won the quarter 16-4. Shiran made it 53:40 with about 6 minutes in the quarter, but Israel failed in the end. Bulgaria produced 22-4 in the last 5 minutes to remain undefeated. Aleksandar Georgiev made just one free throw out of four but it was enough for 62:57 win. Zahariev Hristo paced all the winners with 14 points. Aleksandar Georgiev and Tihomir Zhelev (192-G-90) followed him with 12 points each for 4-0 record. Yotam Shiran (198-F-90, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) ended up with 18 points in defeat and Assaf Ohana (182-G-91) scored 10.

Group F

Austria - Norway 61-56
Austria stayed in the tight race for the semifinal birth at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Tonight the hosts held off pesky Norway to improve at 4-0 record on top of Qualifying Round Group F. Norway in the meantime slipped at 1-3 record after the loss. Moritz Lanegger (188-G-90, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 points to pace Austria. Norway opened the game with a 7:2 run but Austria quickly bounce back. The hosts denied the deficit and posted an 18:12 lead ten minutes into the game. The low-scoring second term allowed the hosts to enlarge the lead to 7 points as they headed into the dressing room up 27:20. Aksel Bolinz (206-F-90) and Anders Stien (195-G-90) dragged the Scandinavian team within one midway through the third quarter 30:31. Norway trailed by only a single points with ten minutes remaining 39:40. Anders Stien and Mjoes gave Norway a 50:46 advantage midway through the fourth term. The visitors were still up by one 56:55 with 42 seconds to go in regulation. But Moritz Lanegger and Maresch went deadly from the stripe snatching the victory for Austria. Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) and Erik Fruhwirth (204-C-91) nailed 11 points each for the winners. Anders Stien answered with 21 points for Norway. Aksel Bolinz finished with 10 points in the loss.

United Kingdom - Poland 98-89
Great Britain stepped closer to the semifinal stage of the U20 European Championship in Division B. They held off previously undefeated Poland for 3-1 record in Group F. Great Britain thus caught up with Poland in the ladder. Ovie Soko (203-F-91) came up with 29 points and 7 rebounds for Great Britain. Piotr Pamula (195-G-90) notched 9 points in the starting quarter to help Poland to the brave start. Aiming at the fifth straight at the tournament Poland rallied to a 22:20 lead at the first intermission. Sulima and Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91) stretched the lead early in the second term. But Great Britain went on a 13:5 run late in the first half to accumulate a 57:50 lead. The British side boosted the margin to 14 points midway through the third term. Poland got closer but still trailed by 7 points heading into the fourth quarter 71:78. Mokros, Czyz and Wojciechowski drew things level at the start of the fourth term. Great Britain however notched 9 points in a row late in regulation and cleared off for good in this one. William Neighbour (203-F-90) nailed 22 points for Great Britain. Alex Marcotullio (191-G-91) and Andrew Lawrence (185-G-90) contributed 15 points apiece in the win. Piotr Pamula answered with 28 points for Poland. Sebastian Szymanski accounted for 15 points in defeat.

Slovakia - Belgium 76-82
Belgium earned the first win at the Qualifying Round of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Thomas De Thaey (197-F-91) scored 20 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead Belgium. Paul Vervaeck team improved at 1-3 record in Group F, while Slovak Republic slipped at 0-4. Belgium stunned Slovak Republic early in the encounter. They grabbed a 16:5 lead midway through the opening quarter. Slovak Republic however narrowed the gap to just four points 17:21 at the first break. Pierre-Antoine Gillet (200-G-91) helped Belgium to open an 11-point advantage late in the first half. But Andrej Kuffa (203-F-90) drained a triple to cap the half as Slovak Republic trailed by 8 points into the locker rooms. Slovak Republic trimmed the deficit to a single point early in the third term. The teams kept it close but Belgium managed to remain on top as they led by three points with ten minutes to go 62:65. Rademakers and Pierre-Antoine Gillet boosted the margin at 10-point mark early in the fourth period. Slovak Republic stayed hopeful as they cut the distance to four points with under two minutes to go. But Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) exploded with back-to-back three-pointers in the dying seconds to seal the win for Belgium. Dennis Donkor finished with 19 points for Belgium. Pierre-Antoine Gillet added 18 points in the victory. Andrej Kuffa answered with 16 points for Slovak Republic. Marek Jass (194-G-90) finished with 13 points and 6 rebounds in the loss.

Group G

Switzerland - Romania 62-88
Romanian U20 National team opened the win count at the European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Switzerland at the start of the classification round. Rolland Torok (202-C-90) exploded with 28 points and 13 rebounds as Romania improved at 1-1 record in Group G. Switzerland slipped at 0-1 record in the ladder. Romania opened the game with a 10:0 run. They maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter and were up by 15 points into the second term 22:7. Fridel and Peter Ishiodu (196-F-91) dragged Switzerland closer at the start of the second term. But Bogdan Tibirna (208-C-91) completed the first half with 16 points to his tally and helped Romania accumulate a 40:28 halftime advantage. Romania opened the second half with a 10:3 surge to boost the margin. Switzerland had little to answer with as Romania were up by 26 points heading into the fourth quarter. Switzerland never got too close despite a 6:0 start of the final quarter and Romania ran away for the win. Bogdan Tibirna had 26 points and 12 rebounds for Romania. Adrian Gutoaia (195-C-90) added 9 points in the victory. Christophe Varidel (185-G-89) came up with 23 points for Switzerland but committed 10 turnovers. Peter Ishiodu finished with 8 points in the loss.

Belarus - Denmark 70-71
Denmark opened their Qualifying round of U20 European Championship in Division B campaign with victory. Mads Christensen team narrowly defeated Belarus to improve at 1-1 record in Group G. Belarus on the other hand slipped at 1-1. Jonas Bergstedt (207-C-91) and Thomas Laerke (193-F-91) stepped up with 15 points each to lead Denmark. The teams kept it close in the opening quarter. Mads Frandsen (202-F/C-90) and Wang capped the period with four points as Denmark earned a 24:18 lead. Mathias Seilund (201-F-90) and Elsner helped the Scandinavians to open a double-digit lead early in the second term. Belarus narrowed the distance to just three points late in the half but Denmark crowned it with 6 points in a row to take a 44:35 advantage into the dressing room. Jonas Bergstedt and Mathias Seilund gave Denmark an 11-point lead midway through the third term. Belarus once again revived intrigue as they pulled within 6 points at the final break 51:57. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau (206-F-91) and Ihnatchyk helped Belarus to get in front 68:67 with just 64 seconds to go. Thomas Laerke came up with timely four points to return Denmark into the drivers seat. Mikalai Salauyou (190-G-91) received the chance to force overtime when he went to the line for three free throws. But he made just two and Denmark escaped with a narrow win at the end. Mathias Seilund notched 14 points and 6 rebounds for Denmark. Mads Frandsen added 11 points and 11 caroms for the winners. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau, Viktar Ausepian (205-F-91), Mikalai Salauyou, Siarhei Hancharonak (204-C-91) and Maksim Dabravolski (198-G-91) nailed 10 points each for Belarus.


M-Standings - Division B

Standings Div.B

Group E 1. Bulgaria 4-0 2. Sweden 3-1 3. Finland 2-2 4. Israel 2-2 5. Portugal 1-3 6. Hungary 0-4 Group F 1. Austria 4-0 2. U.Kingdom 3-1 3. Poland 3-1 4. Norway 1-3 5. Belgium 1-3 6. Slovakia 0-4 Group G 1. Denmark 1-0 2. Belarus 1-1 3. Romania 1-1 4. Georgia 0-0 5. Switzerlan. 0-1

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FINLAND

Finland U20 tied their record at 2-2 at the Qualifying round - by Eurobasket News
Finland U20-Hungary U20 86:59

Finland U20 tied their record at 2-2 at the Qualifying round at the European Championship Division B. The team from Scandinavia overcame Hungary U20 86:59.
Hungary started better and had 11:6 lead after the opening tip of the game. Finland replied with 8-0 and took 14:11 advantage. Roope Ahonen (186-G-90) made a jump shot for 26:17 lead. In the second period the team from Scandinavia produced 25-13 and Nuutinen gave Finland 51:30. The third frame also belonged to Finland that after 20-12 had 71:42. Alanen made two free throws at the end of thirty minutes for 71:40 lead. Toivonen score another jump shot at the very end for 73:40, while Mate Mohacsi (192-F-90) scored two fro Hungary at 73:42 after three quarters. Sasu Salin (190-G-91) scored a three-pointer for 74:43 and then however Hungary made a comeback. Mate Mohacsi brought his side back to 79:55 with 4 minutes in the game. Malinen brought the last points for the winners as Finland overcame Hungary 86:59.
Sasu Salin top-scored for the winners with 26 points as they celebrated the second win. Roope Ahonen and Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) netted 16 points apiece. Ferdinand Morgen (206-F/C-90) ended up with 19 points in the losing case. Takacs and Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) posted 9 points each in defeat.

Finland U20: Sasu Salin 26, Roope Ahonen 16, Carl Lindbom 16
Hungary U20: Ferdinand Morgen 19, Takacs 9, Janos Eilingsfeld 9


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FRANCE

ALM Evreux Basket sign Drake Reed - by Eurobasket
ALM Evreux Basket (ProB) signed 23-year old American forward Drake Reed (196-F-87, college: Austin Peay St.). Reed played most this summer at Ballarat Miners (Australia). He graduated Austin Peay last year, where he averaged 21.9ppg, 7.5rpg and 2.4apg. He sidelined for a year until he got a contract in Australia earlier this year.
By Eurobasket Data Center

France is second at the U18 International tournament - by Eurobasket News
France is second at the U18 International tournament as they lost just the Final game. Krakow held Future Stars Tournament as six U18 teams participated in it. Poland invited the young players from Spain, Slovenia, Great Britain, Sweden and France.
France overcame Poland 100:44 and later beat Richmond Selection. France advanced to the Semifinals as they rout Slovenia 82:66. Trailing 18-20 after the first period France needed 22-9 in the second frame to take the lead. Moreover France erupted with 23-10 in the third quarter and did not mind losing the last period 19-27. For Slovenia Alen Omic (213-C-92) scored 16 points and Marko Pajic (204-F-92) added 12.
In the Semifinal France stun Sweden 66:64 in a real thriller. Sweden took 19-12 lead, but France was too good in the second period and responded with 29-9. Although Sweden tied the game after three periods, France won the last stanza 16-14 and won the game itself. For Sweden Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) nailed 19 points and Viktor Gaddefors added 14. Samir Ali posted 11, while Marcus Eriksson (196-G-93) netted 10.
In the Final game Spain rolled over France 73:70.


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GERMANY

FC Bayern Muenchen bring in Darius Hall - by Moritz Korff
FC Bayern Muenchen, the early heavy favorite to capture the 2010-2011 2. Bundesliga Pro A championship, has added another veteran to its roster. 37-year-old Darius Hall (201-C/F-73, agency: Stanley International, college: W.Kentucky) signed a one-year contract with the team. The 37-year-old spent the past six seasons with the Artland Dragons of Quakenbrueck. The 1995 Western Kentucky grad has been given the nick name 'Hall the Wall' by the Quakenbrueck fans due to his outstanding physical capabilities during his stint with the Lower Saxony side. Hall appeared in 32 BBL encounters for the Dragons in the 2009-10 season and averaged 7 points as well as 3.3 rebounds per contest. The upcoming campaign is going to be Hall's 16th in overseas basketball.

Dirk Nowitzki to skip 2010 World Championship - by Moritz Korff
The German Men's National Team may not rely upon the services of Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) at the 2010 World Championships in Turkey. He plans to focus on the upcoming NBA season after signing a new deal with the Dallas Mavericks, Nowitzki stated according to the website of the German basketball federation. However, the 31-year-old is heavily considering to attend the 2011 European Championships in Lithuania with the German NT. With Nowitzki ruling himself out of the 2010 German roster, Chris Kaman (213-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan) of the Los Angeles Clippers is probably not going to appear on the German squad this year neither.

Essen swoops for Gabriel Moore - by Moritz Korff
The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have completed the signing of Gabriel Moore (185-G-85, college: Indiana St., agency: Limelight Hoops) as their first American player for the 2010-2011 season. The native of Little Rock, Arkansas did not compete in European basketball during the 2009-2010 season, but has one year of pro experience under his belt, as he spent the 2008-09 campaign with the Rhoendorf Dragons (29 games: 16.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.3apg, 2.1spg in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B). Essen also struck a deal with Dorsten's Philipp Spettmann (200-C-91). The 19-year-old prospect played for BG Dorsten (Regionalliga West) and NBBL squad Metropol Baskets in this past season.

Darius Hall Leaves The Pastures Of The Artland For The Glitz Of FC Bayern Munich - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
FC Bayern Munich continue to show that they want to move up to the BEKO BBL as quickly as possible in 2011-2012 as they got another ex BEKO BBL player with Darius Hall (201-C/F-73, agency: Stanley International, college: W.Kentucky) The big 37 year old 201cm power forward/center 120 kilo player who is from Detroit, Michigan and is known as hall the wall and has been the league fan favorite the last years in the BEKO BBL and now will show his skills in the PRO A. He is a player who loves to make the show. His dunks make the crowd explode.He is a fantastic player who is always at 200%. His athleticism ability is unbelievable, he can dunk on anybody. Great finisher in the paint. Good rebounder (but could improve in this area). A great scorer when the game begins to be hot. Hall gets a one year contract and is happy about the new challenge. 'I am really excited to play in such a big city like Munich and am glad to be able to play with Sascha Nadjfeji. We will have a lot of fun and bring a lot of power to the floor', stressed Darius Hall. Hall played six years with The Artland Dragons and his biggest achievement was winning the BEKO BBL cup in Hamburg in 2008. Nobody will forget how Hall celebrated the first Dragon title with the fans. His best statistical season was 2004-2005 with The Artland Dragons as he played 32 games averaging 12.4ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.1spg, 1.6bpg, 2FGP-1 ( 70.1%). In the six years in the Artland, he played 30 international games. Last season, he averaged 7.0ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 61.9%, FT: 48.8%.

He started his basketball career with Western Kentucky and played there from 1991-1995. He then started a long basketball career in 1995-1996 in Spain with Granada 19.4ppg, 12.3rpg. He then played in France from 1996-2000 for teams like Gravelines, Bensancon and Paris SG. In 2001-2002, he played in Belgium for Racing Basket Antwerp (Belgium): Saporta Cup: 1 game: 14.0ppg, 10.0rpg, 4.0apg, 1.0spg; Belgian League: 18 games: 14.7ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.2apg. In 2002-2003, he played for RBC Go-Pass Pepinster (Belgium-D1): 25 games: 15.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.5apg. In 2003-2004, he played another season Pepinster playing 25 games: 15.5ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.5apg.

Source: www.basketball.fcbayern.de





Felix Schekauski Gets 2 Year Extension With SSV Lok Bernau - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

SSV Bernau of the German PRO B have announced that Felix Schekauski (198-G/F-87) will continue to play for the club as he was rewarded with a two year contract. Schekauski is a 22 year old 198cm shooting guard/small forward that will play his fourth season for SSV Lok Bernau. Last season, he played 17 games averaging 6.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 2FGP: 54.7%, FT: 70.4%. 'Felix has grown into a very important player for us in the last years and I dont see him at the end of his potential yet', stressed SSV Lok Bernau coach Torsten Schierenbeck. Schekauski is happy about the confidence of the club. 'The surrounding in Bernau is great. I feel very comfortable here and would like to stay here longer. I am looking forward to the upcoming season with my team and the great fans', stressed Felix Schekauski. The young German will start his communication studies this fall.
Source: www.ssv-lok-bernau.de


Hoffmann and Eichler to Jena - by Moritz Korff
As Science City Jena (2. Bundesliga Pro A) announced on its website recently, that Christian Hoffmann (184-G-87, agency: Limelight Hoops) and Josef Eichler (200-F-87) have been added to the 2010-11 roster. Hoffmann comes off a season with FC Bayern Muenchen (25 games: 4.8ppg, 1.2apg) in Pro A basketball, while Eichler appeared in 27 Pro A matches for the Giants Noerdlingen (27 games: 3.1ppg, 2.7rpg). Though moving to Jena, Eichler will not be play under his brother, Georg Eichler, who served as the Science City head coach during this past season. Coach Eichler will be replaced by his predecessor Tino Stumpf, who returns to the Jena head coaching job.

Danny Gibson back in Germany, joins BBC Bayreuth - by Moritz Korff
Danny Gibson (180-G-84, college: S.Indiana) heads back to German basketball, after signing with BBC Bayreuth (1. Bundesliga). The 26-year-old guard started his pro career with the NVV Lions Moenchengladbach back in 2006 and totally spent three years playing in Germany thus far. In this past season Gibson, who played college basketball at Olney Central Junior College and NCAA Division Two's school University of Southern Indiana, ran the point for Leiden of Holland. He scored 18.3 points per outing and dished out 4.3 assists a game, while earning 2009-10 Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie First Team.

Paderborn inks Zach Hillesland - by Moritz Korff
The Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn (2. Bundesliga Pro A) added size to their 2010-11 roster when announcing the signing of Zach Hillesland (206-F-86, college: Notre Dame) today. The 23-year-old played 112 games (53 starts) for the University of Notre Dame (NCAA1) through four years, completing his college career in 2009. As a senior during the 2008-09 campaign Hillesland earned 33 starts in the 35 games he played and averaged 4.6 points plus 4.9 rebounds per contest. As one of four captains of the Fighting Irish during his final season at Notre Dame the Toledo, OH native advanced to the 2009 NIT semifinals with his team.

Eye To Eye With Walt Baxley (Ratiopharm Ulm) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Walt Baxley (191-G-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: Mars Hill) is a 25 year old 191cm guard that is playing his first season in The BEKO BBL for Ratiopharm Ulm. He played NCAA 2 ball at Mars Hill from 2003-2006. In the 2005-2006 season, he played 27 games averaging 28.1 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.7 spg, 42.9 FG%, 37 3P%. In 2006-2007, he played in Iran for : Shahrdari Gorgan Municipality. In 2007-2008, he played in Poland for JKKS Gornik Walbrzych (Poland-DBE), but left at the end of Dec.2007: 6 games: 4.7ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.3apg. In 2008-2009, he played for Kaiserslautern Braves (Germany-ProA, starting five), left in pre-season, in Nov.2008 moved to Winston-Salem Storm (ABA). Last season, he played his first full season in Europe for German team Kaiserslautern Braves playing 30 games and averaging 19.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.1%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 77.4%. He took some time to talk basketball with eurobasket.

Thanks for taking some time to talk to Eurobasket. How is your summer going?


My summer is going great! Just getting ready for the upcoming season and getting better as a basketball player.

What has been your best experience this summer?


The coolest experience I had this summer was signing with Ratiopharm ulm. Looking forward to playing in the BBL and to play under Coach Mike Taylor.

How does a normal summer day workout day look like for you?


On a normal summer day workout, well first I start weight training at 8am. Then I go to the gym around 12pm and work on my weaknesses and fundamentals. And to finish the day off, I go play pick-up basketball at Wake Forest University at 5pm.

How disappointed were you landing in third place with the Saar Pfalz Braves?


Well I really wasn't dissapointed about 3rd place with the Braves. We digged ourselves a hole by having a bad start in the first half of the season but fought out of it in the second half to finish 3rd. I think that showed how far we came as a team.

What were the main reasons for the club falling short at the end?


Well the bad first half of the season is the reason we fell short. The games we lost were by 2 or 3 points and it got to us until we did something about it. So us as players put ourselves in that situation.

What was your most memorable experience with the Saar Pfalz Braves in 2009-2010?


The most memorable experience last year was scoring 50 points. It came when our team really needed a win. We were on a 2 game losing streak and I just wanted to do whatever it took to get the win. Still can't believe it happend.

Last season was your first full season playing as a professional basketball player. Why did it take so long for that to happen?


Well last year was my first full season in Europe. After college, I played in Iran for a season and it was a pretty good experience. After that year I played in Poland (Gornik). I ended up leaving the team in the second half of the season because I didn't think it was a good fit for me. I felt I didnt get the chance to show my ability. Then 2 years ago I was playing for the Braves for ended up getting injured so I had to sit out for that year.

How much fun was it playing together with Whit Holcomb-Faye? What did you learn from him on and off the court?


Well playing with Whit Holcomb-Faye last year was an awesome experience! He is a talented player and a great point guard. It was a great thrill because he is one of my best friends and we always talked about playing together and when we had the chance, we jumped all over it! Whit taught me how to be patient. To get what you want, not what the defense gives you.

What was the most valuable thing that you learned from coach Nenad Josipovic?


The most valuable thing I learned from Coach Nenad Josipovic is to always fight! No matter how bad things get, keep fighting and never give up!

You averaged 19.0ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 63.1%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 77.4%. Were you confident after this good season that you might get a call from a BEKO BBL team?

No, I didn't think I would get a call as fast as I did. I'm really looking forward to playing in BEKO BBL league. I know its going be tough and I look forward for the challenge.

How quickly were you able to make the decision about going to Ratiopharm Ulm?


Well once I knew it was a chance for me to play there I was very excited! I knew they were a team in the first league and they were well respected. I also knew they have a great coach in Mike Taylor so I knew this would be a great move for me and my career.

What is your impression of Ratiopharm Ulm? The team still will sign some players, but what is your feeling about what the team and you will be able to do?


What I know about Ulm is that they are a tough team. I believe if we get the right pieces together then we will be exciting to watch. I know they fell short into making the playoffs last season so I will do my best for us to make it this year. From the pictures I've seen of Ulm, the fan support is there and that's very important. I believe I can bring in scoring and anything else the team needs me to do. Whatever it takes to win.

Have you spoken to coach Mike Taylor? He is a players coach. What do you know about him?


Yes, I have talked to Coach Taylor. We've talked several times about the upcoming season and I'm excited to start with him. I know he is an outstanding coach. I've heard nothing but good things about him so I'm excited to start this new experience with him.

What will be your role in the team? A scorer off the bench?



My role on the team will be to score and to be more of a slasher. But I am willing to do anything if it will make us better as a team. If Coach Taylor wants my role to be scorer of the bench then I'm fine with that. I'm just going play my role as best as I can so we can win.

You were a scorer in college at Mars Hill. What is a hidden strength in your game that nobody knows about?


A hidden strength in my game is passing and defense. I enjoy passing and making my teammates better. I also enjoy playing defense. I have worked on my foot speed this summer just to show that I can play on both sides of the court.

How excited are you too be playing with a possible future NBA player with German Robin Benzing?



I'm very excited to be playing with Robin Benzing. He is a well respected player and me and him together can do some great things. Very excited about Ulm basketball!

Do you think it will be a big adjustment for you coming from PRO A to the BEKO BBL?


Well I don't think it will be a big adjustment. I believe it will be more competitive but I am ready for it. I'm confident and I know I can play in the top league and I can't wait.

Who were your NBA idols growing up?



My NBA idol growing up was Michael Jordan. He will always be the greatest player ever!

What was your nicest memory at Mars Hill (NCAA2)?


My nicest memory at Mars Hill was becoming the first All-American basketball player and receiving Athlete of the Year honors in all sports in my conference. It showed that hard work does pay off.

Who won a one on one in practice? You or Whit Holcomb-Faye?


Well it was pretty even. The times we did play against each other in practice were pretty entertaining. We talk trash to each other and who ever that lost had to hear about it all week long. But we got the best of each other.

What was the most crazy shot that you ever took in a practice or game?



The most craziest shot I ever took was an underhand half court shot in practice and made it. We always tried trick shots before and after practice and one day I got lucky.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row?


The most free-throws I made in a row was 42. In one of my college games I went 16 for 16 from the line.

What will the Miami Heat achieve with Lebron James?


The Miami Heat will achieve nothing but greatness with LeBron James. He is the best player in the world right now and with him, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh togther will be very exciting to watch.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


The last DVD movie I saw was 'More than a Game'. The LeBron James story
Thanks Walt for the chat. Good luck with Ratiopharm Ulm in 2010-2011.


Philipp Neumann Gets 3 Year Deal From The Brose Baskets Bamberg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Brose Baskets Bamberg showed their self confidence in Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) by giving him a three year contract. The young 18 year old German that is one of the biggest German basketball talents form the year 1992 is a 210cm center that came last year to Bamberg playing for the Brose Baskets Bamberg junior team: 21.0ppg, 12.8rpg, had also license to play at TSV Troester Breitenguessbach (ProB): 20 games: 8.4ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 56.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 61.0%. Neumann is young, but already knows how to dominate in the paint. Bamberg coach Chris Fleming is happy about getting the big talent for many years. 'Philipp is a guy that has successfully developed through the Bamberg system. He has a lot of potential and will play in the PRO B and Bundesliga this season. He will get most of his playing time in the PRO B, but also minutes in the BEKO BBL. He is a player that could become atop player at the European level, but still has a lot of work ahead of him. I think he will be able to make the jump this season', stressed Bamberg coach Chris Fleming

Neumann started his basketball career in 2007-2008 with SSKC Aschaffenburg / TV Langen U16 team. In 2008-2009, he played for Franken Hexer (ProB): 21 games: 4.5ppg, 4.1rpg, Blocks-5 (1.0bpg). He already has a lot of international experience having played for the U-16 and U-18 German National teams. In 2008, he played at the European Championships U16 Division B in Sarajevo (Bosnia) -08 (Gold) (Gold): 9 games: 13.4ppg, 8.1rpg, 2.6bpg, 2FGP: 74.3%, FT: 45.9%. In 2009, he played at the European Championships U18 in Metz (France) -09: 8 games: Score-5 (16.1ppg), Reb-3 (10.6rpg), Blocks-1 (3.4bpg), FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 9.1%, FT: 62.1%.
Source: www.brose-baskets-bamberg.de


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GREECE

U18 European Championship Men 2010 - The Hellenic NT Final Roster - by Chris Mammides
Head Coach Georgios Vlassopoulos finally selected the following player to represent the Hellenic National Team for the European Championship which will be held between 22nd of July until the 1st of August in Vilnius, Lithuania:
Socratis Psaropoulos (191-G-92) Peristeri GS
Georgios Mavrogianis (193-G-92) Niki Volou
Ioannis Molfetas (193-G/F-92) Apolloniada
Spyridon Motsenigos (194-G/F-92) Peramatos
Thomas Tsalkitzis (191-G-92) Iraklis
Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (205-F-92) Aris
Nikolaos Kampouris (201-F/C-92) Olympiakos
Anastasios Antonakis (204-C/F-92) AEK
Petros Melissaratos (202-C/F-93) Alimos
Marios Dermitzakis (199-F-92) Elliniko
Efstathios Papadionysiou (200-F-92) Apollon Smyrnis
Alfa Agkimpou Ntiallo Fasengas 210-F/C-92 Gymnastikos Olympia Larissas


Aris Thessaloniki brings in Pierre Pierce - by Eurobasket News
Aris Thessaloniki has brought in Pierre Pierce (193-G-83, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Iowa) for the next season. The 27-year old American arrives to Greece from France, where he played for Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket. He appeared in 30 ProA games registering 13.6 points and 4.4 rebounds. Pierce ended the competition as fifth best assistant with 5.1 apg. He played for Toulon on season 2008/09 as well. At that time he had 12 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 3.1 apg. Toulon also competed in EuroChallenge that season, where Pierce added 11.2 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.9 apg for 10 games. Pierre Pierce is a product of Iowa University, where he graduated in 2005.

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HOLLAND

ZZ Leiden attracts Dutch young point guard Terrence Robinson - by Fred Roggen
The 20-year-old Dutch point guard Terrence Robinson (186-G-90) plays next season for Zorg en Zekerheid Leiden. Terrence Robinson previously played in the Eredivisie, in Den Helder for the Bluestream Seals and OmniWorld Almere. Terrence Robinson began playing basketball at Red Stars from Soest and and after a stop at UBALL, he moved to Omniworld Almere.
Robinson has also played a long time in various Dutch national youth teams.

Upstairs Weert inks forward Lawrence Hamm - by Fred Roggen
Upstairs Weert added to its froncourt by signing versatile forward Lawrence Hamm (198-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Towson) for the upcoming season. Hamm arrives from Finnish side Salon Vilpas, where he
averaged 17.9 points and 9.9 rebounds last season.
Hamm is an experienced player in Europe. He played two seasons with Aris DeFriesland in Leeuwarden, one year as a forward for USK Praha in the Czech Republic, 13.3 points and 5.8 rebounds, and last season at Salon Vilpas as power forward in Finland,
'Lawrence is talented and athletic, a quick player who is able to play with his back to the basket and can score from the perimeter,'
Upstairs Weert head coach Terence Stansbury said. His scoring ability, his shot, his rebounds and his team behavior will certainly be of great importance
for the team

Robin Appels opts for CB Gran Canaria - by Fred Roggen
The 16-year-old point guard of BV Lely Amsterdam, Robin Appels chooses to play for the Canarias Basketball Academy next season. Robin Appels played his entire life basketball at BV Lely, last year he was playing in the U-18 Eredivisie League. In Gran Canaria, he will play as a junior in CBA'S U-18 team next season. He will also encounter the Dutch players Geordhy Pantophlet (195-F-90), Ewoud Kloos (185-G/F-89), Roeland Schaftenaar (211-F/C-88, college: Oregon St.) and Kevin van Wijk (204-F-89).

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

HUNGARY

Finland U20 tied their record at 2-2 at the Qualifying round - by Eurobasket News
Finland U20-Hungary U20 86:59

Finland U20 tied their record at 2-2 at the Qualifying round at the European Championship Division B. The team from Scandinavia overcame Hungary U20 86:59.
Hungary started better and had 11:6 lead after the opening tip of the game. Finland replied with 8-0 and took 14:11 advantage. Roope Ahonen (186-G-90) made a jump shot for 26:17 lead. In the second period the team from Scandinavia produced 25-13 and Nuutinen gave Finland 51:30. The third frame also belonged to Finland that after 20-12 had 71:42. Alanen made two free throws at the end of thirty minutes for 71:40 lead. Toivonen score another jump shot at the very end for 73:40, while Mate Mohacsi (192-F-90) scored two fro Hungary at 73:42 after three quarters. Sasu Salin (190-G-91) scored a three-pointer for 74:43 and then however Hungary made a comeback. Mate Mohacsi brought his side back to 79:55 with 4 minutes in the game. Malinen brought the last points for the winners as Finland overcame Hungary 86:59.
Sasu Salin top-scored for the winners with 26 points as they celebrated the second win. Roope Ahonen and Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) netted 16 points apiece. Ferdinand Morgen (206-F/C-90) ended up with 19 points in the losing case. Takacs and Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) posted 9 points each in defeat.

Finland U20: Sasu Salin 26, Roope Ahonen 16, Carl Lindbom 16
Hungary U20: Ferdinand Morgen 19, Takacs 9, Janos Eilingsfeld 9


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

IRAN

Iran triumphs at Williams Jones Cup - by Eurobasket News
Iran triumphs at Williams Jones Cup as the team won all six games. Iran overcame Taiwan 92:82 although trailing in the game. Iranian forward Bahrami was named 2010 William Jones Cup Most valuable Player. He recorded 30 points in the top game versus Lebanon. That time Iran produced a 79:71 victory over Lebanon to remain undefeated.


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

ISRAEL

Derrick Low joins Maccabi Haifa - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Haifa brought in serious reinforcement. The team signed a deal with Derrick Low (188-G-86, college: Washington St.). The 24-year-old guard had an outstanding season in Lithuania. He notched 13.1 points, 5.3 assists, 3.5 rebounds per LKL game for Siauliai. In EuroCup the guard came up with 18.5 points, 3.8 assists and 1.8 rebounds per game. In Baltic League Derrick Low averaged 15.0 points, 4.3 assists, 3.4 boards and 1.5 steals per appearance.


Portugal soar past Israel in friendly - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Israel 85:76

Portugal recorded their first win this summer. They held off Israel in the exhibition clash in Rio Maior. Heshimu Evans (198-F-75, college: Kentucky) knocked down 20 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and issued 5 assists to lead the effort.
Portugal grabbed the lead early in the game. They stayed in charge in the opening frame and recorded a 26:19 lead at the first break. Israel could not deny the deficit in the second period. The hosts stayed put and posted a 43:35 buffer at halftime. Israel finally found the right rhythm in the third quarter. They knocked down 24 points to cut the margin to just 4 points into the fourth quarter. But Portugal stopped their opponents just in time. Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada) and Heshimu Evans came up for the home side and sealed the winning outcome at the end.
Joao Santos top-scored for Portugal with 23 points. Jaime Silva (187-G-80) added 9 points for the winners. Tal Burstein (198-G-80, agency: ZAG Advocates) responded with 16 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists for Israel. Lior Eliyahu (207-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) notched 14 points in the loss.

Portugal: Joao Santos 23, Heshimu Evans 20, Jaime Silva 9
Israel: Tal Burstein 16+11 boards, Lior Eliyahu 14, Yotam Halperin (196-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) 11


Lior Eliyahu to Maccabi ? - by Eurobasket
Israeli newspapers report that Lior Eliyahu (207-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) and Maccabi Tel Aviv are very close to reach an agreement for the next season.
It would be his come back after he played here in 2007-2009.
Eliyahu spent last season at Caja Laboral in Spain and helped them to win Spanish championship (3-0 against Barcelona). He recorded 8.4ppg, 3.4rpg and 1.3apg in the Euroleague, and 5.3ppg, 1.7rpg and 1.0apg in the Spanish ACB.
If Eliyahu joins Maccabi, he will be Maccabi's 5th new player after Richard Hendrix, Tal Burstein, Jeff Foote and Elishay Kadir.

Bulgaria U20 needed 22-4 in the last 5 minutes to beat Israel U20 - by Eurobasket News
Israel U20-Bulgaria U20 57:62

Bulgaria U20 proves the ambitions for the top places and beat Israel U20 in the last game of the Group E on Tuesday. Bulgarian team rolled over Israel 62:57 at the European Championship Division B.
Both teams exchanged the baskets int he opening quarter, while Bulgaria took the minimum lead after 10 minutes, 17:15. Kyosev scored for 24:17 but Shiran tied the game at 26:26. Aleksandar Georgiev (203-F-90) remained Bulgaria in front after the first half at 32:27. Cohen brought 36:36, while Israel held off the opponents scoreless for about 7 minutes. Ariely scored for 43:36 as Israel won the quarter 16-4. Shiran made it 53:40 with about 6 minutes in the quarter, but Israel failed in the end. Bulgaria produced 22-4 in the last 5 minutes to remain undefeated. Aleksandar Georgiev made just one free throw out of four but it was enough for 62:57 win.
Hristo Zahariev (197-G/F-90) paced all the winners with 14 points. Aleksandar Georgiev and Tihomir Zhelev (192-G-90) followed him with 12 points each for 4-0 record. Yotam Shiran (198-F-90, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) ended up with 18 points in defeat and Assaf Ohana (182-G-91) scored 10.

Israel U20: Yotam Shiran 18, Assaf Ohana 10
Bulgaria U20: Hristo Zahariev 14, Aleksandar Georgiev 12, Tihomir Zhelev 12

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

ITALY

Angelico Biella takes Jeff Viggiano and A.J. Slaughter - by Eurobasket News
Angelico Biella has signed two new players. Jeffrey Viggiano (200-F-84, college: Massachusetts) and A.J. Slaughter (191-G) will play for the Italian outfit next season.
Jeffrey Viggiano is coming to Biella from Armani Jeans Milano. He played seven Euroleague games last season averaging 4.3 points and 2 rebounds. It SerieA, Viggiano added 5.1 ppg and 1.4 rpg. Season 2008/09 he spent in LegaDue with Pavia. He shined there with 14.1 ppg and 4.2 rpg for 34 games. In the past, Viggiano also was a member of Hungarian Soproni and Swedish Norrkoping Dolphins. He graduated at University of Massachusetts in 2006.
A.J. Slaughter will play his first season overseas. He came out of the Western Kentucky University few months ago collecting 17.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 4.3 in senior season. It was his best year with the school and Slaughter was named All-Sun Belt 1st Team. Two years ago, Western Kentucky reached the NCAA Sweet 16. At that time, Slaughter had 7.6 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 36 games. His numbers drastically increased as junior. From 7.6 ppg he jumped to 16 ppg for 32 games.

Bennet Cantu brings in Michael Green - by Antonello Varallo
Bennet Cantu announced the name of the new point guard: Michael Green (185-G-85, college: Butler)
The man from Philadelphia graduated from Butler (14.6 ppg and 5.1 apg in the senior year) and after some pre draft workouts joined Antalya Buyuksehir Belediye (Turkey-TBL), where during the season 2008-2009 he played 31 games with 11.6 ppg and 4.4 apg. During last season he was a star of Belgium D1, where he played 37 league games with Belgacom Liege averaging 13.6 ppg (season high of 29 points) and 3.5 apg (high og 8 assists) and reaching the league finals. He also played 12 games in the last Euro Challenge with 13.9 ppg and 4.4 apg.

A Dilettanti Last Transactions - by Armando Caporaso
Mauro Bonaiuti (192-G-78) is a new player of Agrigento, from Ferentino. In the last season 10.0 points (season high against Siena with 19 points) and 1.7 steals in 27 matches. Another player leaves Ferentino and joins with Omegna: Leonardo Zaccariello (190-G/F-82, agency: Players Group), ex Latina, Vigevano and Pistoia, the last year closed with 11.2 points in 32.9 minutes with 13.9 of ranking. Davide Andreaus (202-F-86) remains at Siena for another season after the good things done in the last league (9.3 points and 49% by 3). Confirmation also for Manuel Diomede (188-G-90) (ex Montevarchi) that closed the 2009/2010 with 5.9 points in the regular season and 10.0 points during the play off. Riccardo Casagrande (196-F-88) is the first new player of the Consum.It from Imola. For the ex player of Jesolo (grown at Pesaro) in the last season in LegaA2 3.1 points in 11.6 minutes with 2.3 rebounds. Two new arrivals at Trapani: Luca Bisconti (206-F/C-82) and Francesco Guarino (182-G-79), both from Barcellona, in the last season contributed at the promotion to the LegaA2 of the Sigma with important performances. The center closed with 11.6 points and 5.3 rebounds while for the playmaker 10.0 points and 3.1 assist in 31.1 minutes. Palestrina takes Matteo Spippoli (212-C-81) protagonist of the 'strange' season of Napoli in the last LegaA1 league. For the center, ex Rieti and Montegranaro, first of the cancellation of all the statistics of the NSB Napoli had produced 1.0 points in 7.9 minutes (10 matches).

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

JAPAN

Japan is third at Jones Cup 2010 - by Eurobasket News
Japan is third at Jones Cup 2010 after the latest victory over Taiwan University All-Stars 83:67. Before that Japan beat Philippine team 74:64. A 7-0 run early in the 4th quarter increased Japan's lead to double-digit before the Philippines managed to pull within four, but that's the best they could do. Marcus Douthit led the Philippines with 20 points to go with 21 rebounds. Two players out of five became in the top list of the tournament. Takuya Kawamura (193-G-86) and Yuta Tabuse (173-G-80, college: BYU-Hawaii) were awarded tonight in Taiwan.


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

JORDAN

Jordan complete the fray of 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup - by Omar Shafaamri

BEIRUT, Lebanon (3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup): FIBA Asia champions Iran were drawn in Group A and hosts Lebanon in Group B for the forthcoming 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup to be played in Beirut from Aug 7-15.

The draw was completed at Ghazir Sporting Club, Beirut the venue for the competition on Monday.

Joining Iran in Group A are fellow West Asian team Iraq who will make a comeback to FIBA Asia mens National Team competitions after a gap of almost a quarter of a century. Iraq had last played in the 14th edition of FIBA Asia Championship, when it was hosted by Bangkok in 1987.

East Asian duo Chinese Taipei and Japan and Middle Asias Kazakhstan are the other teams in Group A.

Jordan National Team complete the fray

Group B will witness stiff competition between hosts Lebanon and Jordan National Team who have both qualified to represent FIBA Asia in the 2010 FIBA World Championship to be played in Turkey from Aug 28-Sept 12.

Jordan National Team, who won the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship in Tianjin last year to qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, were given a wildcard entry. Jordan National Team, in fact, will enter the fray as the defending champions of the FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup, having won the gold medal in the 2008 edition at Kuwait.

Former FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup champions and top GCC team Qatar, South East Asias Philippines and West Asias Syria are the other teams in Group B.

Commenting on the draw FIBA Asia Deputy Secretary General Hagop Khajirian, who was present at the draw ceremony said: The fray for the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the most competitive in all the three editions of this event.

My opinion is that the draw, which is rather well balanced, only augurs well for the high-pitched battles basketball fans of Lebanon are expecting from this competition, Khajirian.

Explaining the entry of Jordan National Team into the competition, Khajirian, who is also the Chairman of the FIBA Asia Media and Marketing Committee said: It is logical, isnt it? We had one slot vacant. It was obvious that a team representing FIBA Asia in the FIBA World Championship deserves to get that slot more than any other team. And lets not forget Jordan National Team will defend their title when they play in this competition.

FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani said: Three teams in this competition are heading to Turkey for the 2010 FIBA World Championship. It cant get more exciting for the basketball fans in Asia in general, and Lebanon in particular.

FIBA Asia Secretary General Dato Yeoh Choo Hock said: Along with teams preparing for the FIBA World Championship, this is also the qualifying tournament for next years FIBA Asia Championship, which also will be hosted by Lebanon in Beirut.

Therefore, in more than one sense, the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is a very good dress rehearsal for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship next year, which will qualify FIBA Asias representative to the 2012 London Olympics.

The 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup, incidentally, is the first FIBA Asia event to be hosted by the basketball-crazy Lebanon for senior mens National Teams.

In the past Beirut had hosted the FIBA Asia Champions Cup for club teams, for two back-to-back years 1999-2000.

The 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the qualifying event for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011, incidentally also to be hosted at Beirut, which in turn will be the qualifying event for 2012 London Olympics.

The winners of the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will automatically qualify for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011. The top five teams at the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will earn additional berths for their respective FIBA Asia sub zones.

System of competition

The 10 teams are drawn into two Groups of five each for the Preliminary Round. Each team will play all the others in their respective Groups. The top four from each Group will advance to the knockout Quarterfinals. The teams finishing fifth in the groups will play off for the 9th place.

Groupings for the Preliminary Round

Group A: Chinese Taipei, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Kazakhstan.

Group B: Jordan National Team, Lebanon, Philippines, Qatar, Syria.
FIBA Asia


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

LEBANON

Draw completed for 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup - by Maarouf Mawloud
Fiba Asia....

BEIRUT, Lebanon (3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup): FIBA Asia champions Iran were drawn in Group A and hosts Lebanon in Group B for the forthcoming 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup to be played in Beirut from Aug 7-15.
The draw was completed at Ghazir Sporting Club, Beirut the venue for the competition on Monday.

Joining Iran in Group A are fellow West Asian team Iraq who will make a comeback to FIBA Asia mens National Team competitions after a gap of almost a quarter of a century. Iraq had last played in the 14th edition of FIBA Asia Championship, when it was hosted by Bangkok in 1987.

East Asian duo Chinese Taipei and Japan and Middle Asias Kazakhstan are the other teams in Group A.

Jordan complete the fray

Group B will witness stiff competition between hosts Lebanon and Jordan who have both qualified to represent FIBA Asia in the 2010 FIBA World Championship to be played in Turkey from Aug 28-Sept 12.

Jordan, who won the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship in Tianjin last year to qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, were given a wildcard entry. Jordan, in fact, will enter the fray as the defending champions of the FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup, having won the gold medal in the 2008 edition at Kuwait.

Former FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup champions and top GCC team Qatar, South East Asias Philippines and West Asias Syria are the other teams in Group B.

Commenting on the draw FIBA Asia Deputy Secretary General Hagop Khajirian, who was present at the draw ceremony said: The fray for the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the most competitive in all the three editions of this event.

My opinion is that the draw, which is rather well balanced, only augurs well for the high-pitched battles basketball fans of Lebanon are expecting from this competition, Khajirian.

Explaining the entry of Jordan into the competition, Khajirian, who is also the Chairman of the FIBA Asia Media and Marketing Committee said: It is logical, isnt it? We had one slot vacant. It was obvious that a team representing FIBA Asia in the FIBA World Championship deserves to get that slot more than any other team. And lets not forget Jordan will defend their title when they play in this competition.

FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani said: Three teams in this competition are heading to Turkey for the 2010 FIBA World Championship. It cant get more exciting for the basketball fans in Asia in general, and Lebanon in particular.

FIBA Asia Secretary General Dato Yeoh Choo Hock said: Along with teams preparing for the FIBA World Championship, this is also the qualifying tournament for next years FIBA Asia Championship, which also will be hosted by Lebanon in Beirut.

Therefore, in more than one sense, the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is a very good dress rehearsal for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship next year, which will qualify FIBA Asias representative to the 2012 London Olympics.

About 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup

The 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the qualifying event for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011, incidentally also to be hosted at Beirut, which in turn will be the qualifying event for 2012 London Olympics.

The winners of the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will automatically qualify for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011. The top five teams at the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will earn additional berths for their respective FIBA Asia sub zones.

System of competition

The 10 teams are drawn into two Groups of five each for the Preliminary Round. Each team will play all the others in their respective Groups. The top four from each Group will advance to the knockout Quarterfinals. The teams finishing fifth in the groups will play off for the 9th place.

Group A : Iran,Iraq,Japan,Kazakhstan and Chinese Taipei
Group B : Jordan,Lebanon,philippines,Qatar and Syria



Draw completed for 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup - by Maarouf Mawloud
Fiba Asia....

BEIRUT, Lebanon (3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup): FIBA Asia champions Iran were drawn in Group A and hosts Lebanon in Group B for the forthcoming 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup to be played in Beirut from Aug 7-15.
The draw was completed at Ghazir Sporting Club, Beirut the venue for the competition on Monday.

Joining Iran in Group A are fellow West Asian team Iraq who will make a comeback to FIBA Asia mens National Team competitions after a gap of almost a quarter of a century. Iraq had last played in the 14th edition of FIBA Asia Championship, when it was hosted by Bangkok in 1987.

East Asian duo Chinese Taipei and Japan and Middle Asias Kazakhstan are the other teams in Group A.

Jordan complete the fray

Group B will witness stiff competition between hosts Lebanon and Jordan who have both qualified to represent FIBA Asia in the 2010 FIBA World Championship to be played in Turkey from Aug 28-Sept 12.

Jordan, who won the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship in Tianjin last year to qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, were given a wildcard entry. Jordan, in fact, will enter the fray as the defending champions of the FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup, having won the gold medal in the 2008 edition at Kuwait.

Former FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup champions and top GCC team Qatar, South East Asias Philippines and West Asias Syria are the other teams in Group B.

Commenting on the draw FIBA Asia Deputy Secretary General Hagop Khajirian, who was present at the draw ceremony said: The fray for the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the most competitive in all the three editions of this event.

My opinion is that the draw, which is rather well balanced, only augurs well for the high-pitched battles basketball fans of Lebanon are expecting from this competition, Khajirian.

Explaining the entry of Jordan into the competition, Khajirian, who is also the Chairman of the FIBA Asia Media and Marketing Committee said: It is logical, isnt it? We had one slot vacant. It was obvious that a team representing FIBA Asia in the FIBA World Championship deserves to get that slot more than any other team. And lets not forget Jordan will defend their title when they play in this competition.

FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani said: Three teams in this competition are heading to Turkey for the 2010 FIBA World Championship. It cant get more exciting for the basketball fans in Asia in general, and Lebanon in particular.

FIBA Asia Secretary General Dato Yeoh Choo Hock said: Along with teams preparing for the FIBA World Championship, this is also the qualifying tournament for next years FIBA Asia Championship, which also will be hosted by Lebanon in Beirut.

Therefore, in more than one sense, the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is a very good dress rehearsal for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship next year, which will qualify FIBA Asias representative to the 2012 London Olympics.

About 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup

The 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the qualifying event for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011, incidentally also to be hosted at Beirut, which in turn will be the qualifying event for 2012 London Olympics.

The winners of the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will automatically qualify for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011. The top five teams at the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will earn additional berths for their respective FIBA Asia sub zones.

System of competition

The 10 teams are drawn into two Groups of five each for the Preliminary Round. Each team will play all the others in their respective Groups. The top four from each Group will advance to the knockout Quarterfinals. The teams finishing fifth in the groups will play off for the 9th place.

Group A : Iran,Iraq,Japan,Kazakhstan and Chinese Taipei
Group B : Jordan,Lebanon,philippines,Qatar and Syria


Lebanon ended up with 5-1 record on the second place - by Eurobasket News
Lebanon ended up with 5-1 record on the second place at Williams Jones Cup. Lebanon beat the Philippines 73:62 and finished runner-up with five wins and one loss. On Monday Lebanon routed Crocs 81:52 with Jackson Vroman (208-C/F-81, college: Iowa St.) sitting out the game. Iran that became the only team to upset Lebanon won the tournament with 6-0 record.


A new Board Committee for the LBF - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
On July 18th, 2010 the Lebanese Basketball Family elected a new Board committee for the Lebanese Basketball Federation, the elections were held in the Auditorium of Centrale Club in the presence of 86 clubs from the various divisions.

The new elected Board committee will be composed from:

Georges Barakat (President) Dr. Robert Abou Abdallah ( 1st Vice President ) - Jawdat Chaker ( 2nd Vice President ) Nizar Rawass ( 3rd Vice President ) - Me. Ghassan Fares (Secretary General) Vicken Jerjian ( Treasurer )- Saba Makhlouf ( Accountant) Fadi Tabet ( National Team Manager) - Elie Farhat ( Member) Maroun Gebrael ( Member) Fadi Mahfouz ( Member) Charebel Bakhos ( Member) Hadi Ghamraoui ( Member


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

LITHUANIA

Lietuvos Rytas keeps Steponas Babrauskas - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas announced signing of a one-year contract extension with Steponas Babrauskas (196-G/F-84). The 26-year old small forward arrived to the club in 2008 from Legea Scafati Basket. In his first season with the Rytas, Babrauskas averaged 6.7 points and 1.9 rebounds for 15 EuroCup games. They managed to win this competition and to book a spot for Euroleague 2009/10. Babrauskas registered 9 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 26 games in LKL, where Rytas grabbed the title.
This season, Babrauskas had 7 ppg and 2.6 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. He also added 9.6 ppg and 3 rpg for 34 games in LKL. Rytas defended the Championship Title and National Cup this year.
Before Lietuvos Rytas, Steponas Babrauskas spent half of the season with Scafati and half with Cimberio Varese. That was 2007/08, when he had 5.8 ppg in LegaDue and 6.3 ppg in SerieA. Season 2006/08 Barbauskas spent with ASK Riga. He had 8.3 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 12 EuroCup games at that time. He also has experience from Belgium as a player of Leuven. Babrauskas played for Lietuvos Rytas for the first time on season 2003/04. Last summer, he played for the Lithuanian 'B' National Team.

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

NBA

C.J. Watson to join Chicago Bulls - by Eurobasket News
C.J. Watson (6'2''-G-84, college: Tennessee) has been acquired by the Chicago Bulls from the Warriors in a sign-and-trade transaction. C.J. Watson was acquired in the second-round pick of 2011 sign-and-trade transaction.

A 26-years-old C.J. Watson is a scoring guard whose primary role in the Chicago Bulls will be to back-up Derrick Rose, an All-star point guard. C.J. Watson has averaged 8.7 during his three-season career. Watson has shot 45.9 percent with a 35.1 percent from 3-pointers. 6-feet-2 inches tall C.J. Watson started his basketball career with stints in Development League and with some European teams.

At Chicago Bull, C.J. Watson will be signing a 2-year deal worth $6.5 million. The deal could be extended to a third season but its not guaranteed yet. With the inclusion of C.J. Watson, Bulls is left with a salary cap of about $4.5 million and a roster of 10 players. The team managers are now hunting for a center guard and a shooting guard.

C.J. Watson, a free-agent, had signed a three-season deal of worth $10.2 million with the Warriors, who then traded him to Chicago Bulls. Watson is the sixth player of the Warriors last years roster who has been traded. In return of this trade, Warriors will get a trade exception worth half of C.J. Watsons earning in his first season at Bulls.

With this trade, Warriors have saved one more chip for later use. Previously Warriors acquired an exception by trading Anthony Morrow. Warriors have expiring contracts of three more players of last years roster.

Courtesy of www.buzztab.com

Miami Heat re-sign Jamaal Magloire to a one-year, $1.4 million contract - by Eurobasket News
The Miami HEAT have announced that they have re-signed center Jamaal Magloire (6'10''-F/C-78, college: Kentucky). Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Magloire, who originally signed with the HEAT as a free agent on September 2, 2008, has appeared in 592 career games (313 starts). During his nine-year NBA career, he has averaged 8.0 points, 6.9 rebounds and 23.2 minutes while shooting 48.0 percent from the field and 65.3 percent from the foul line. The former NBA All-Star (2004) has appeared in 42 postseason contests (18 starts) and averaged 7.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 21.1 minutes while shooting 47.6 percent from the field and 68.2 percent from the foul line.

During the 2008-09 season, Magloire appeared in 55 games (12 starts) for Miami and averaged 2.9 points, 4.0 rebounds and 12.9 minutes while shooting 49.6 percent from the field. In his 12 starts, his averages increased to 5.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 16.7 minutes while connecting on 63.6 percent of his shots.

Magloire led the HEAT and finished 28th in the NBA in rebounds per 48 minutes (15.0). He also led the team in rebounds on four separate occasions and in blocks three times. Additionally, he was the HEATs leading scorer off the bench in three games while topping the HEAT reserves in rebounds on 17 occasions, in blocks 13 times, in steals seven times, in assists in three contests and in minutes once.

He drew 13 charges on the season which was the third-best team total. Magloire also appeared in six postseason games and totaled two points, 11 rebounds and one assist while shooting 1-of-3 from the field in 47 minutes.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Bucks ink Keyon Dooling - by Eurobasket News
The Milwaukee Bucks have signed guard Keyon Dooling (6'3''-G-80, college: Missouri) to a contract, General Manager John Hammond announced Monday.

A 10-year NBA veteran, Dooling averaged 6.9 points, 2.5 assists and 1.0 rebound in 53 games (eight starts) for the New Jersey Nets last season. He enjoyed his best statistical season in 2008-09 when he averaged 9.7 points, 3.5 assists and 2.0 rebounds in 77 games for the Nets.

Selected by Orlando with the 10th overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft, Dooling was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers where he played the first four years of his NBA career. After one season with the Miami Heat (2004-05), he signed as a free agent with Orlando and played three seasons (2005-08) with the Magic. Prior to the 2008-09 season, Orlando traded Dooling to the Nets for cash considerations.

Dooling, 30, has played in 595 career NBA games (62 starts) and holds averages of 7.2 points, 2.2 assists and 1.4 rebounds per contest.

Courtesy of www.wkowtv.com

Clippers re-sign Craig Smith - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Clippers and free agent Craig Smith (6'7''-F-83, college: Boston Coll.) have reached a deal for the power forward to return to the team.

Smith averaged 7.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 16.4 minutes in 75 games last season, when he shot 57 percent from the floor.

He was originally acquired by the Clippers last July along with Sebastian Telfair and Mark Madsen from Minnesota in exchange for Quentin Richardson.

Smith joins free agents Randy Foye, Ryan Gomes and Brian Cook, who already signed with the Clippers. The team's three draft picks - Al-Farouq Aminu, Eric Bledsoe and Willie Warren - have secured deals, too.

Courtesy of www.csnphilly.com

Jon Brockman goes to Milwaukee in sign-and-trade - by Eurobasket News
The Sacramento Kings agreed to a sign-and-trade Monday with the Bucks that will send Jon Brockman (6'7''-F-87, college: Washington) to Milwaukee.

In exchange for Brockman, the Kings will receive power forward Darnell Jackson (6'8''-F-85, college: Kansas) and a future second-round pick.

Sacramento's second round pick last year, Brockman quickly carved out a niche on the Kings thanks to his rugged play and strong rebounding ability. But with the offseason additions of Samuel Dalembert, DeMarcus Cousins and Hassan Whiteside, Brockman's return to Sacramento wasn't a sure thing.

In Jackson, the Kings receive a 6'9', 253-pound forward who split time between Cleveland and Milwaukee last season. Jackson, 24, has a partially non-guaranteed contract, meaning he could be cut at little penalty to Sacramento. For the same reason Brockman became expendable, Jackson will have an uphill climb if he hopes to make the Kings roster out of training camp.

Brockman was arguably the Kings best rebounder last year, and he placed among the NBA leaders in offensive rebounding efficiency. He will have to work for playing time in Milwaukee, as the Bucks have Andrew Bogut, Drew Gooden, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute and first-round pick Larry Sanders in the front court.

Courtesy of www.examiner.com

Suns hire agent Babby to replace Steve Kerr - by Eurobasket News
The Phoenix Suns have hired agent Lon Babby to head the team's basketball operations, a person with knowledge of the situation said Monday.

The person, who asked not to be identified because the official announcement has not been made, told The Associated Press that Babby will be introduced at a news conference at US Airways Center on Tuesday.

Until his move to the front office, Babby represented the Suns' newly acquired Hedo Turkoglu and is the former agent of Phoenix's other recent addition, Josh Childress.

Babby emerged in recent days as the leading candidate in Suns owner Robert Sarver's search for a replacement for general manager Steve Kerr (6'3''-G-65, college: Arizona), who stepped down at the end of June and has returned to his previous role of NBA analyst for TNT.

Babby, one of the most respected agents in the business, also represented the Suns' Grant Hill, San Antonio's Tim Duncan and Boston's Ray Allen. He has represented baseball players and served first as club counsel, then as general counsel for the Baltimore Orioles from 1974 to 1989. He also has represented the NFL's Washington Redskins.

A Washington-based attorney, Babby graduated from the Yale law school and is a member of the board of trustees of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Despite the departure of Kerr and his top lieutenant, Dave Griffin, Phoenix made three important personnel moves after All-Star Amare Stoudemire turned down the Suns' final offer and signed with the New York Knicks.

First, Phoenix signed free agent forward Hakim Warrick. After Stoudemire's departure was worked out to be a sign-and-trade agreement, Phoenix acquired the rights to Childress from Atlanta in a sign-and-trade deal, the Hawks getting a 2012 second-round draft pick. The Hawks had the rights to Childress, who had played for a team in Greece the past two years.

Finally, the Suns acquired Turkoglu from Toronto for Leandro Barbosa and Dwayne Jones.

Kerr, the Suns' general manager for three seasons, decided to leave when his contract expired even though he was the architect of a surprising team that had the third-best record in the Western Conference and made it to the conference finals before losing to the eventual NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite several reports that he was unhappy with a new contract offer from Sarver, Kerr insisted he was leaving for personal reasons, mainly to spend more time with his family at their home in San Diego.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Amare Stoudemire to miss world championships because of contract issues - by Eurobasket News
A USA Basketball spokesman says Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) will not play for the United States in the world championships because of problems insuring his contract.

The New York Knicks new forward was expected to be one of the Americans' top players in Turkey, but the team learned it would be without him Tuesday, the day training camp opened.

Stoudemire has had microfracture knee surgery among his injuries, a major reason Phoenix wouldn't offer him a maximum length contract. The Knicks then gave him a five-year deal worth nearly $100 million, even while saying they weren't sure if the contract could be insured.

Without proper insurance, NBA teams can prevent players from taking part in summer events.

Courtesy of www.newser.com

Dallas' superstar Nowitzki to skip World Championships in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) will not play for Germany at next month's world championship in Turkey.

The German basketball federation said Tuesday that the nine-time All-Star would be back for the 2011 European Championship that will also serve as a qualifying tournament for the 2012 Olympics in London.

'Next summer I'd like to try with the team to make our common goal of playing at the Olympics,' Nowitzki said in a statement published by the federation.

The announcement came shortly after the Mavericks signed the 32-year-old Nowitzki to a new contract, a deal reportedly worth over $80 million for four years.

'I signed a new contract in Dallas, where there are new conditions with a new team and I'd like to concentrate 100 percent this summer on the upcoming NBA season,' the German federation quoted Nowitzki as saying.

The 12-year NBA veteran was the league's MVP in 2007. He became the 34th player in league history to reach 20,000 career points on Jan. 13 and ranks 27th among all-time scorers.

Courtesy of http://seattletimes.nwsource.com

Blazers name Thunder assistant GM Cho to replace Pritchard - by Eurobasket News
New Trail Blazers general manager Rich Cho says while he's impressed with Portland's youth and depth, the team is still lacking the piece that will bring the city another championship.

Cho, who spent nine seasons as an assistant general manager with the Oklahoma City Thunder, was introduced as the Blazers' GM on Monday. He replaces Kevin Pritchard, who helped usher the team out of the Jail Blazers era several years ago but was ultimately dismissed last month.

Cho, a Northwest native, said that under his watch the Blazers will be 'process oriented and methodical in our approach.'

'Character, teamwork and accountability will be three of our core values,' he said.

The Blazers also considered former Cleveland GM Danny Ferry and former Miami GM Randy Pfund before settling on Cho, 44, who joined the Thunder as an intern when the franchise was based in Seattle.

Cho interviewed with Blazers owner Paul Allen, the billionaire co-founder of Microsoft, last week in Helsinki, Finland. Allen, still traveling in Europe, said in a statement: 'Rich has depth of character, a foundation in business and legal matters and a knowledge of the game of NBA basketball that will help our team get even better. He is part of the new generation of NBA executives.'

With a law degree and also a background in engineering, Cho has gained a reputation for his expertise with the salary cap and the collective bargaining agreement. He's also got scouting experience.

'Everyone I spoke to about Rich commented not just on his qualifications but on who he is as a person,' Blazers president Larry Miller said in a statement. 'He is well known for his ability to connect genuinely with people. Rich will be a great fit for our organization and for Portland. He is an executive on the rise and we're thrilled to have him as a Trail Blazer.'

Terms of the contract with Cho were not disclosed.

Pritchard, who had been with the Blazers since 2004, was fired by Allen just hours before the NBA draft. It was never made clear what exactly precipitated the dismissal.

Pritchard built a promising young team around guard Brandon Roy, who was chosen the league's rookie of the year before becoming a three-time All-Star. Pritchard was also a staunch supporter of 7-foot center Greg Oden, the top pick in the 2007 draft who has been plagued by injuries.

During Pritchard's tenure the Blazers also returned to the playoffs after a five-year absence, but they were unable to get past the first round for the past two seasons.

Portland, which won the NBA championship in 1977, went 50-32 last season even though the team was dogged by random injuries to several players.

'Portland's definitely come a long way, but I think there's room for improvement,' Cho said.

Michael Born, Portland's director of NBA scouting, and Chad Buchanan, director of college scouting, took over GM duties while the search was on. The Blazers made an offer for Utah restricted free agent Wesley Matthews, but have otherwise been quiet in recent weeks.

Blazers coach Nate McMillan said he got to know Cho when both of them were in Seattle.

'After talking to Rich I called some friends and everyone said pretty much the same thing, that this guy is ready for the opportunity,' McMillan said.

Thunder general manager Sam Presti was certain Cho would be a competent GM.

'He's got a lot of versatility to his skill set. He's going to put in an incredible amount of work and he's going to think things through and be very analytical about how he approaches decisions,' Presti said. 'I just think overall he brings a nice balance and he's going to do wonderful.'

During his time in Seattle, Cho worked closely with Microsoft to develop a comprehensive player evaluation system. A member of the Washington State Bar, he also served as a vice president in charge of legal affairs for the SuperSonics from 2005-07, handling issues including licensing agreements and employment contracts.

Cho, who also has worked at Boeing, received his engineering degree from Washington State. He attended law school at Pepperdine.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

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

NCAA1

Marshall Plumlee will join brothers at Duke - by Eurobasket News
Duke picked up a hat trick of Plumlee Brothers. Marshall Plumlee (6'11''-F/C-92), the younger brother of current Duke players Miles and Mason, committed to the Blue Devils Sunday.

Marshall, a 6-foot-11 center at Christ School in Arden, N.C., told the Asheville Citizen-Times he would follow in his brothers' footsteps, though he characterized the family connection as 'icing on the cake,' rather than a primary reason for choosing Duke.

Perky Plumlee, the brothers' father, told the Citizen-Times that the trio playing at the same college was a happy coincidence for the family, who are originally from Warsaw, Ind.

'We never set out to channel all three boys to the same [college],' he told the paper. 'It just amazes us that things unfolded in this way. It really all began when we decided to send the boys to Christ School.'

If older brothers Miles, a rising junior, and Mason, a rising sophomore, remain at Duke through the 2011-2012 season, it is believed it would be the first time three brothers have played together on an ACC team.

Plumlee is the 40th-ranked player by Scout.com and joins center Tyler Adams and wing Michael Gbinije among Duke's recruiting class of 2011.

The youngest Marshall brother picked Duke over a host of schools, including Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Purdue and N.C. State, according to Rivals.com.

Plumlee can sign a letter of intent to the school in November.

Courtesy of http://ncaabasketball.fanhouse.com

UConn AD named head of NCAA basketball committee - by Eurobasket News
The athletic director at Connecticut, which faces allegations of NCAA violations in its men's basketball program, has been picked to chair the NCAA Division I men's basketball committee.

Jeff Hathaway is working on the school's response to NCAA allegations of eight major rules infractions in the Huskies' men's basketball program. That response is due next month.

Hathaway will serve as chairman for the 2011-12 academic year. His appointment comes as the NCAA works to implement its new $10.8 billion television agreement with Turner Sports and CBS and expand its championship tournament from 65 to 68 teams.

UConn's athletic director since 2003, Hathway's name also had been mentioned in connection with the athletic director's job at Maryland, his alma mater.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Tennessee Tech gets basketball transfer from Marquette - by Eurobasket News
Liam McMorrow (7'0''-C-87) has transferred from Marquette to Tennessee Tech after an undisclosed medical concern ended his career at Marquette.

The Toronto native redshirted during the 2008-09 season after transferring from Durham College in Oshawa, Ontario, where he played as a freshman. McMorrow did not play at Marquette during the 2009-10 season because of his health concerns, and the team never cleared him to play.

Tennessee Tech plans to seek an NCAA waiver that will allow him to play immediately. The team did not comment on McMorrow's medical issues.

Courtesy of www.tennessean.com

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

NORWAY

Austria post important win over Norway - by Eurobasket News
Austria U20 - Norway U20 61:56

Austria stayed in the tight race for the semifinal birth at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Tonight the hosts held off pesky Norway to improve at 4-0 record on top of Qualifying Round Group F. Norway in the meantime slipped at 1-3 record after the loss. Moritz Lanegger (188-G-90, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 points to pace Austria.
Norway opened the game with a 7:2 run but Austria quickly bounce back. The hosts denied the deficit and posted an 18:12 lead ten minutes into the game. The low-scoring second term allowed the hosts to enlarge the lead to 7 points as they headed into the dressing room up 27:20. Aksel Bolinz (206-F-90) and Anders Stien (195-G-90) dragged the Scandinavian team within one midway through the third quarter 30:31. Norway trailed by only a single points with ten minutes remaining 39:40. Anders Stien and Mjoes gave Norway a 50:46 advantage midway through the fourth term. The visitors were still up by one 56:55 with 42 seconds to go in regulation. But Moritz Lanegger and Maresch went deadly from the stripe snatching the victory for Austria.
Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) and Erik Fruhwirth (204-C-91) nailed 11 points each for the winners. Anders Stien answered with 21 points for Norway. Aksel Bolinz finished with 10 points in the loss.

Austria U20: Moritz Lanegger 13, Rasid Mahalbasic 11, Erik Fruhwirth 11
Norway U20: Anders Stien 21, Aksel Bolinz 10


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PHILIPPINES

Philippines finished Williams Jones Cup with 3-3 record - by Eurobasket News
Philippines finished Williams Jones Cup with 3-3 record as Lebanon beat the Philippines 73:62 in the last game. On Monday Japan beat Philippine team 74:64. A 7-0 run early in the 4th quarter increased Japan's lead to double-digit before the Philippines managed to pull within four, but that's the best they could do. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, college: Providence) led the Philippines with 20 points to go with 21 rebounds. Marcus Douthit became one of the best players of the tournament.


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

POLAND

Krakow held Future Stars Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Krakow held Future Stars Tournament as six U18 teams participated in it. Poland invited the young players from Spain, Slovenia, Great Britain, Sweden and France.
Poland beat Slovenia 80:65 as they started with 23-12 and added 23-16 in the second period. Slovenia responded with 22-10 in the third period but could not come closer. Alen Omic (213-C-92)'s 14 points were not enough for the guests, while Prepelic delivered 12 points in the losing case. France smashed Poland 100:43.
After the group round the Spanish outfit reached semifinals. In the Semifinal Spain overcame Poland 89:53. The hosts started with 16-11 lead after the first period, while Spain limited Poland to just 6 points in the second frame. Another 32-20 in the third quarter and 27-11 were too much for the hosts. Fernandez paced all the winners with 19 points and Barrera nailed 14. Acosta scored 9, while Ventura, Tomas and Angel Aparicio (199-F-92) scored 8 each.
In the game for the third place Sweden upset the hosts, Poland 76:72. The team from Scandinavia opened the game with 18-15 and then added 13-12 in the second frame. Poland bounced back with 25-12, but Sweden won due to 27-20 in the last stanza. Marcus Eriksson (196-G-93) poured in 22 points and Charles Barton (188-G-92) added 21. Elias Desport, Sebastian Norman and Stefan Nguyen scored 8 points each.
In the Final game Spain rolled over France 73:70.


Great Britain boost their title ambitions with win over Poland - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20 - Poland U20 98:89

Great Britain stepped closer to the semifinal stage of the U20 European Championship in Division B. They held off previously undefeated Poland for 3-1 record in Group F. Great Britain thus caught up with Poland in the ladder. Ovie Soko (203-F-91) came up with 29 points and 7 rebounds for Great Britain.
Piotr Pamula (195-G-90) notched 9 points in the starting quarter to help Poland to the brave start. Aiming at the fifth straight at the tournament Poland rallied to a 22:20 lead at the first intermission. Sulima and Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91) stretched the lead early in the second term. But Great Britain went on a 13:5 run late in the first half to accumulate a 57:50 lead. The British side boosted the margin to 14 points midway through the third term. Poland got closer but still trailed by 7 points heading into the fourth quarter 71:78. Mokros, Czyz and Wojciechowski drew things level at the start of the fourth term. Great Britain however notched 9 points in a row late in regulation and cleared off for good in this one. William Neighbour (203-F-90) nailed 22 points for Great Britain. Alex Marcotullio (191-G-91) and Andrew Lawrence (185-G-90) contributed 15 points apiece in the win. Piotr Pamula answered with 28 points for Poland. Sebastian Szymanski accounted for 15 points in defeat.

Great Britain U20: Ovie Soko 29, William Neighbour 22, Alex Marcotullio 15, Andrew Lawrence 15
Poland U20: Piotr Pamula 28, Sebastian Szymanski 15


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

PORTUGAL

Portugal soar past Israel in friendly - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Israel 85:76

Portugal recorded their first win this summer. They held off Israel in the exhibition clash in Rio Maior. Heshimu Evans (198-F-75, college: Kentucky) knocked down 20 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and issued 5 assists to lead the effort.
Portugal grabbed the lead early in the game. They stayed in charge in the opening frame and recorded a 26:19 lead at the first break. Israel could not deny the deficit in the second period. The hosts stayed put and posted a 43:35 buffer at halftime. Israel finally found the right rhythm in the third quarter. They knocked down 24 points to cut the margin to just 4 points into the fourth quarter. But Portugal stopped their opponents just in time. Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada) and Heshimu Evans came up for the home side and sealed the winning outcome at the end.
Joao Santos top-scored for Portugal with 23 points. Jaime Silva (187-G-80) added 9 points for the winners. Tal Burstein (198-G-80, agency: ZAG Advocates) responded with 16 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists for Israel. Lior Eliyahu (207-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) notched 14 points in the loss.

Portugal: Joao Santos 23, Heshimu Evans 20, Jaime Silva 9
Israel: Tal Burstein 16+11 boards, Lior Eliyahu 14, Yotam Halperin (196-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) 11


The Scandinavian team improved to 3-1 at the the Qualifying round - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20-Portugal U20 87:79

The Scandinavian team improved to 3-1 at the the Qualifying round at the European Championship Division B. Sweden U20 beat Portugal U20 87:79 in Group E opener on Tuesday.
Lindqvist nailed a three points in the opening tip, Andreas Person (188-G-91) needed two free throws to give Sweden 12:11. Lindell made a lay-up at the end of 10 minutes for 22:15 advantage. Portugal kept everything under control and did not allow the team from Sweden to go on a bigger lead. Joao Guerreiro (205-F-90) scored 5 points in a row for 24:23. Sweden however pushed the tempo at the end of the half and Zaghden sent the teams to the lockers for 30:37 halftime deficit. Christopher Czerapowicz (197-F-91) nailed three to open the second half and another two shots from the arc gave Sweden 59:39. After 63:44 Portugal created an 11-0 run to reduce the gap to 63:55. Nagwere gave Sweden 70:57 after thirty minutes and his three-pointer in the beginning of the last period brought 73:57. Portugal made a huge comeback as Barroso cut it to 80:77, but Ryan closed the game at 87:79 from the free throw line.
Andreas Person poured in 21 points and Christopher Czerapowicz nailed 18. Joao Guerreiro ended up with 20 points in the losing effort. Tomas Barroso (180-G-90) and Diogo Correia (185-G-90) finished with 16 points each as their team dropped at 1-3.

Sweden U20: Andreas Person 21, Christopher Czerapowicz 18
Portugal U20: Joao Guerreiro 20, Tomas Barroso 16, Diogo Correia 16


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QATAR

Draw completed for 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup - by Maarouf Mawloud
Fiba Asia....

BEIRUT, Lebanon (3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup): FIBA Asia champions Iran were drawn in Group A and hosts Lebanon in Group B for the forthcoming 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup to be played in Beirut from Aug 7-15.
The draw was completed at Ghazir Sporting Club, Beirut the venue for the competition on Monday.

Joining Iran in Group A are fellow West Asian team Iraq who will make a comeback to FIBA Asia mens National Team competitions after a gap of almost a quarter of a century. Iraq had last played in the 14th edition of FIBA Asia Championship, when it was hosted by Bangkok in 1987.

East Asian duo Chinese Taipei and Japan and Middle Asias Kazakhstan are the other teams in Group A.

Jordan complete the fray

Group B will witness stiff competition between hosts Lebanon and Jordan who have both qualified to represent FIBA Asia in the 2010 FIBA World Championship to be played in Turkey from Aug 28-Sept 12.

Jordan, who won the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship in Tianjin last year to qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, were given a wildcard entry. Jordan, in fact, will enter the fray as the defending champions of the FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup, having won the gold medal in the 2008 edition at Kuwait.

Former FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup champions and top GCC team Qatar, South East Asias Philippines and West Asias Syria are the other teams in Group B.

Commenting on the draw FIBA Asia Deputy Secretary General Hagop Khajirian, who was present at the draw ceremony said: The fray for the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the most competitive in all the three editions of this event.

My opinion is that the draw, which is rather well balanced, only augurs well for the high-pitched battles basketball fans of Lebanon are expecting from this competition, Khajirian.

Explaining the entry of Jordan into the competition, Khajirian, who is also the Chairman of the FIBA Asia Media and Marketing Committee said: It is logical, isnt it? We had one slot vacant. It was obvious that a team representing FIBA Asia in the FIBA World Championship deserves to get that slot more than any other team. And lets not forget Jordan will defend their title when they play in this competition.

FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani said: Three teams in this competition are heading to Turkey for the 2010 FIBA World Championship. It cant get more exciting for the basketball fans in Asia in general, and Lebanon in particular.

FIBA Asia Secretary General Dato Yeoh Choo Hock said: Along with teams preparing for the FIBA World Championship, this is also the qualifying tournament for next years FIBA Asia Championship, which also will be hosted by Lebanon in Beirut.

Therefore, in more than one sense, the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is a very good dress rehearsal for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship next year, which will qualify FIBA Asias representative to the 2012 London Olympics.

About 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup

The 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the qualifying event for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011, incidentally also to be hosted at Beirut, which in turn will be the qualifying event for 2012 London Olympics.

The winners of the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will automatically qualify for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011. The top five teams at the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will earn additional berths for their respective FIBA Asia sub zones.

System of competition

The 10 teams are drawn into two Groups of five each for the Preliminary Round. Each team will play all the others in their respective Groups. The top four from each Group will advance to the knockout Quarterfinals. The teams finishing fifth in the groups will play off for the 9th place.

Group A : Iran,Iraq,Japan,Kazakhstan and Chinese Taipei
Group B : Jordan,Lebanon,philippines,Qatar and Syria



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ROMANIA

Romania post first win in Austria - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U20 - Romania U20 62:88
Romanian U20 National team opened the win count at the European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Switzerland at the start of the classification round. Rolland Torok (202-C-90) exploded with 28 points and 13 rebounds as Romania improved at 1-1 record in Group G. Switzerland slipped at 0-1 record in the ladder.
Romania opened the game with a 10:0 run. They maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter and were up by 15 points into the second term 22:7. Fridel and Peter Ishiodu (196-F-91) dragged Switzerland closer at the start of the second term. But Bogdan Tibirna (208-C-91) completed the first half with 16 points to his tally and helped Romania accumulate a 40:28 halftime advantage. Romania opened the second half with a 10:3 surge to boost the margin. Switzerland had little to answer with as Romania were up by 26 points heading into the fourth quarter. Switzerland never got too close despite a 6:0 start of the final quarter and Romania ran away for the win. Bogdan Tibirna had 26 points and 12 rebounds for Romania. Adrian Gutoaia (195-C-90) added 9 points in the victory. Christophe Varidel (185-G-89) came up with 23 points for Switzerland but committed 10 turnovers. Peter Ishiodu finished with 8 points in the loss.

Switzerland U20: Christophe Varidel 23, Peter Ishiodu 8
Romania U20: Rolland Torok 28+13 boards, Bogdan Tibirna 26+12 boards, Adrian Gutoaia 9


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SERBIA

Crvena Zvezda lands Uros Nikolic and Nemanja Arnautovic - by Eurobasket News
Crvena Zvezda announced signing of Uros Nikolic (207-F/C-87) and Nemanja Arnautovic (194-G-90, agency: Beo Basket) for the upcoming season.
Uros Nikolic arrives to Crvena Zvezda from Krka Novo Mesto. He appeared 39 times in Slovenian league averaging 10.5 points and 5.6 rebounds. His team managed to win the title by beating Union Olimpija in the Finals. Before Krka Novo Mesto, Nikolic spent thee years with Mega Hypo Leasing. In his last one with the club he had 13.8 ppg and 6 rpg for 24 games in Serbian league. The team also competed in BIBL, where Nikolic added 12.4 ppg and 8.5 rpg for 11 games. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Balkan League Honorable Mention -09. In the past, Nikolic also played for Hemofarm. In 2007, he helped the U20 Serbia to clinch the Gold at U20 EuroBasket in Nova Gorica.
Nemanja Arnautovic is coming to Crvena Zvezda from the Montenegrin powerhouse Buducnost Podgorica. He helped them to defend the championship title in Montenegro. Arnautovic started the season with Serbian outfit Mega Vizura, where he had 9.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg for 24 games. He also played for Hemofarm in the past. This summer he was a member of U20 Serbia and the U20 EuroBasket in Croatia.

At the same time, Crvena Zvezda extended contracts with Dusan Katnic (195-G-89, agency: Beo Basket), Stevan Jelovac (207-F/C-89, agency: BeoExcell), Boris Bakic (194-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Strahinja Dragicevic (203-F-86).


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SLOVAKIA

Slovakian National team beat Georgia in a friendly clash - by Eurobasket News
Slovakia-Georgia 80:72

Slovakian National team beat Georgia in a friendly clash. The home side trailed after the opening quarter but sealed 80:72 victory.
Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) opened the game for Slovakia and then Georgia took control of the first quarter. The latter produced 15:10 to enjoy the first 10 minutes. In the second quarter Slovakia nailed 32 points and in an offensive quarter grabbed 42:39 at the halftime. Moreover the hosts won the third period and had 64:57 after thirty minutes. The last quarter also belonged to the hosts that however added just one more point to the total victory.
Daniel Novak (201-F/G-78, agency: Interperformances) and Marko top-scored for the winners with 16 points each. Peter Sedmak (203-C-85) and Anton Gavel followed them with 10 apiece. Zaza Pachulia, Green and Ckitisvili ended up with 10 points each in the losing effort.
In the whole game Slovakia scored 10 three pointers, while Georgia nailed 6. The hosts also made more fouls than the opponents as they had 25 versus 19.
For Georgia It was the second straight loss as they were outplayed recently by Hungary.

Slovakia: Daniel Novak 16, Marko 16, Peter Sedmak 10, Anton Gavel 10
Georgia: Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) 10, Green 10, Ckitisvili 10

Belgium shoot down Slovak Republic - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U20 - Slovak Republic U20 82:76

Belgium earned the first win at the Qualifying Round of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Thomas De Thaey (197-F-91) scored 20 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead Belgium. Paul Vervaeck team improved at 1-3 record in Group F, while Slovak Republic slipped at 0-4.
Belgium stunned Slovak Republic early in the encounter. They grabbed a 16:5 lead midway through the opening quarter. Slovak Republic however narrowed the gap to just four points 17:21 at the first break. Pierre-Antoine Gillet (200-G-91) helped Belgium to open an 11-point advantage late in the first half. But Andrej Kuffa (203-F-90) drained a triple to cap the half as Slovak Republic trailed by 8 points into the locker rooms. Slovak Republic trimmed the deficit to a single point early in the third term. The teams kept it close but Belgium managed to remain on top as they led by three points with ten minutes to go 62:65. Rademakers and Pierre-Antoine Gillet boosted the margin at 10-point mark early in the fourth period. Slovak Republic stayed hopeful as they cut the distance to four points with under two minutes to go. But Dennis Donkor (194-G/F-91) exploded with back-to-back three-pointers in the dying seconds to seal the win for Belgium.
Dennis Donkor finished with 19 points for Belgium. Pierre-Antoine Gillet added 18 points in the victory. Andrej Kuffa answered with 16 points for Slovak Republic. Marek Jass (194-G-90) finished with 13 points and 6 rebounds in the loss.

Belgium U20: Thomas De Thaey 20, Dennis Donkor 19, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 18
Slovak Republic U20: Andrej Kuffa 16, Marek Jass 13


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SLOVENIA

Slovenia U18 finished 5th in Poland - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U18 finished 5th in Poland at the Future Stars Tournament. Krakow held Future Stars Tournament as six U18 teams participated in it. Poland invited the young players from Spain, Slovenia, Great Britain, Sweden and France.
Poland beat Slovenia 80:65 as they started with 23-12 and added 23-16 in the second period. Slovenia responded with 22-10 in the third period but could not come closer. Alen Omic (213-C-92)'s 14 points were not enough for the guests, while Klemen Prepelic (190-G-92) delivered 12 points in the losing case. Later Slovenia rolled over Richmond 89:61 mostly to the third period that they won 26-6. Slovenia also won the opening quarter 24-16 and never looked behind in the game. Alen Omic top-scored for the winners with 15 points, while Klemen Prepelic nailed 13. Besedic delivered 12 and Hodzic posted 10.
France advanced to the Semifinals as they rout Slovenia 82:66. Trailing 18-20 after the first period France needed 22-9 in the second frame to take the lead. Moreover France erupted with 23-10 in the third quarter and did not mind losing the last period 19-27. For Slovenia Alen Omic scored 16 points and Marko Pajic (204-F-92) added 12.
In the game for the fifth place Slovenia outscored Richmond 47:26 as the game consisted of just two quarters. Slovenia opened the game with 28-13 and added 19-13 in the second period. Hodzic top-scored for the winners with 8 points and Rojc scored 7. Jan Span (189-G-92) and Marko Pajic brought their side 6 points apiece.


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SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Venezuela shortens team to 15 players, hosts exhibition tournament in La Guaira - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The Senior Team of Venezuela saw its 19-men roster shortened to 15 by head coach Nestor Salazar, as they moved from Cumana, Sucre to La Guaira, Vargas, to continue trainings towards the 2010 ABASU South American Championship, to be played in Neiva, Colombia, from July 26th till July 31st and for which the team will host an exhibition tournament in La Guaira against Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina from July 21st til the 23rd.

Salazar cut small forwards Michael Flores (192-G-85) and Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) and power forwards Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) and Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80), leaving the roster with guards Gregory Vargas (182-G-86), Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) and David Cubillan (183-G-87), shooting guards Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) and Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82), small forwards Juan Herrera (197-F-81), Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85), Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) and Luis Valera (201-F-88), power forwards Windy Graterol (204-C-86), Axiers Sucre (198-F-78), Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) and Hector Romero (202-F-80) and centers Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) and Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84).

The team is playing without former star center Richard Lugo (209-C-73), who was not taken into account due to his age (37), and lacks a true center. Guard Greivis Vasquez (198-G-87) could not come due to compromises with the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA, former NBA small forward Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) had surgery in his knee and point guards Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) and Heissler Guillent (186-G-86) were not included due to injuries sustained in the LPB 2010 season. Academic issues held out power forwards Nestor Colmenares (203-F), from the Campbellsville Tigers in the NAIA and Gregory Echenique (206-F-90), from the Creighton Blue Jays in the NCAA 1.

The tournament in Colombia offers three spots for the Panamerican Games in Guadalajara, Mexico (2011) and four spots for the 2011 FIBA Americas Pre Olympic Tournament, to be played in Mar del Plata, Argentina. Venezuela will face Argentina, Colombia and Ecuador in Group B and Group A will host Brazil, Uruguay, Chile and Paraguay.

Venezuela already played four matches against Panama and Belice as visitors with a 3-1 record while those teams were getting ready for the 2010 Centrobasket Tournament, played in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

This time, the 'Vinotinto' team will use Jose Maria Vargas Dome in La Guaira to face Uruguay, Brazil and Argentina for three days prior to the trip to Colombia and Salazar will use the games to determine who stays and who leaves.

While Argentina and Brazil are using 'B' teams, Venezuela and Uruguay have some of their main guns in action. Brazil and Argentina have their 'A' teams set to work for the 2010 FIBA World Cup, to be played in Turkey.


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SPAIN

Spain U18 wins Future Stars Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 wins Future Stars Tournament in Poland. Krakow held Future Stars Tournament as six U18 teams participated in it. Poland invited the young players from Spain, Slovenia, Great Britain, Sweden and France.
Spain U18 became the winner of the tournament as they looked better than any other team. In the group round Spain lost to Sweden 59:70 as the latter started with 28-11 in the first 10 minutes. Spain responded with 18-8 in the second frame, but Sweden again took the bigger lead after 22-18 in the third. Marcus Eriksson (196-G-93) led the way with 17 points and Samir Ali (F) netted 16. Jonatahan Person followed them with 14 points and Charles Barton (188-G-92) nailed 9. Samir Ali had 16 and Tomas responded with 15 points in the losing effort. Fernandez and Miguel Servera (199-G-92) delivered 7 points each in defeat.
Later Spain destroyed Richmond 106:57 with 22-8 in the opening quarter. Spain added 27-16 in the second frame and never looked behind after. Moreover they won the third period 25-19 and the last 32-14. Creus and Angel Aparicio (199-F-92) top-scored for the winners with 15 points each, while Diaz and Alejandro Barrera (199-F/C-92) scored 13 apiece. Johnson answered with 18 points in the losing case and Hanson scored 11. Alfaki and Vaughn produced 5 each, whilst Raptapoulos and McLean netted 4 apiece.
After the group round the Spainish outfit reached semifinals. In the Semifinal Spain overcame Poland 89:53. The hosts started with 16-11 lead after the first period, while Spain limited Poland to just 6 points in the second frame. Another 32-20 in the third quarter and 27-11 were too much for the hosts. Fernandez paced all the winners with 19 points and Alejandro Barrera nailed 14. Acosta scored 9, while Albert Ventura (196-F-92), Tomas and Angel Aparicio scored 8 each.
In the Final game Spain rolled over France 73:70.


Cajasol signs Kaloyan Ivanov to a two-year contract - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol announced signing of a two-year deal Kaloyan Ivanov (205-F-86). The Bulgarian National Team player arrives to Seville from Manresa, where he spent last season. Ivanov appeared 33 times in ACB averaging 8.1 points and 6.1 rebounds. His team finished as No.12 with 14-20 record.
Before Manresa, Kaloyan Ivanov spent three years with Vive Menorca. He arrived there in 2006 from Cherno More. In his last with Menorca, Ivanov had 4.8 ppg and 5.8 rpg for 29 games. Unfortunately, the team was relegated to LEB Gold. In the past, Ivanov also was a member of Avtodor Saratov, Levski Sophia and Dunav Russe.
From 2005, Kaloyan Ivanov is active member of the Bulgarian National Team. He appeared five times in Poland last summer collecting 8.2 ppg and 4.4 rpg. Ivanov also shined for Bulgaria during the EuroBasket Qualifications. In the past, Ivanov was a member of U18 and U02 Bulgaria.
Recently, Cajasol has brought in Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.). The player arrived from Xacobeo BS.

LEB Transactions - by Llorenc Morro
Team Lleida is back to LEB Gold thanks to a FEB's invitation. They will announce new transactions very soon.
Sergio Alonso (182-G-80, college: Celtas de Foz) is a new point guard at Mallorca (LEB Gold).
Former point guard of La Laguna Canarias Enrique Garrido (178-G-82) signed at Palencia (LEB Gold) replacing Salvador Camps (178-G-79), who left the team.
La Laguna Socas Canarias (LEB Gold) added former Girona guard Albert Sabat (187-G-85) to the roster. They also re-signed for another year center Jesus Chagoyen (200-C-78), power forward Ricardo Guillen (205-F/C-76) and guard Iker Urreizti (187-G-75).

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SWEDEN

The Scandinavian team improved to 3-1 at the the Qualifying round - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U20-Portugal U20 87:79

The Scandinavian team improved to 3-1 at the the Qualifying round at the European Championship Division B. Sweden U20 beat Portugal U20 87:79 in Group E opener on Tuesday.
Lindqvist nailed a three points in the opening tip, Andreas Person (188-G-91) needed two free throws to give Sweden 12:11. Lindell made a lay-up at the end of 10 minutes for 22:15 advantage. Portugal kept everything under control and did not allow the team from Sweden to go on a bigger lead. Joao Guerreiro (205-F-90) scored 5 points in a row for 24:23. Sweden however pushed the tempo at the end of the half and Zaghden sent the teams to the lockers for 30:37 halftime deficit. Christopher Czerapowicz (197-F-91) nailed three to open the second half and another two shots from the arc gave Sweden 59:39. After 63:44 Portugal created an 11-0 run to reduce the gap to 63:55. Nagwere gave Sweden 70:57 after thirty minutes and his three-pointer in the beginning of the last period brought 73:57. Portugal made a huge comeback as Barroso cut it to 80:77, but Ryan closed the game at 87:79 from the free throw line.
Andreas Person poured in 21 points and Christopher Czerapowicz nailed 18. Joao Guerreiro ended up with 20 points in the losing effort. Tomas Barroso (180-G-90) and Diogo Correia (185-G-90) finished with 16 points each as their team dropped at 1-3.

Sweden U20: Andreas Person 21, Christopher Czerapowicz 18
Portugal U20: Joao Guerreiro 20, Tomas Barroso 16, Diogo Correia 16


Sweden U18 clinched bronze in Krakow - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18 clinched bronze in Krakow as the participated at the Future Stars Tournament. Krakow held Future Stars Tournament as six U18 teams participated in it. Poland invited the young players from Spain, Slovenia, Great Britain, Sweden and France.
In the opener Spain lost to Sweden 59:70 as the latter started with 28-11 in the first 10 minutes. Spain responded with 18-8 in the second frame, but Sweden again took the bigger lead after 22-18 in the third. Marcus Eriksson (196-G-93) led the way with 17 points and Samir Ali netted 16. Jonathan Person followed them with 14 points and Charles Barton (188-G-92) nailed 9. Samir Ali had 16 and Tomas responded with 15 points in the losing effort. Fernandez and Servera delivered 7 points each in defeat.
Richmond surprised Sweden 68:62 in the last game before the Play-offs. Richmond Selection started with 18-16, but Sweden won the second and the third periods. Richmond Selection needed 26-15 to win their game. Valiant Hed Taqi nailed 14 points for Sweden and Sebastian Norman (206-C-92) scored 11.
In the Semifinal France stun Sweden 66:64 in a real thriller. Sweden took 19-12 lead, but France was too good in the second period and responded with 29-9. Although Sweden tied the game after three periods, France won the last stanza 16-14 and won the game itself. For Sweden Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) nailed 19 points and Viktor Gaddefors added 14. Samir Ali posted 11, while Marcus Eriksson netted 10.
In the game for the third place Sweden upset the hosts, Poland 76:72. The team from Scandinavia opened the game with 18-15 and then added 13-12 in the second frame. Poland bounced back with 25-12, but Sweden won due to 27-20 in the last stanza. Marcus Eriksson poured in 22 points and Charles Barton added 21. Elias Desport, Sebastian Norman and Stefan Nguyen scored 8 points each.


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SWITZERLAND

Romania post first win in Austria - by Eurobasket News
Switzerland U20 - Romania U20 62:88
Romanian U20 National team opened the win count at the European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Switzerland at the start of the classification round. Rolland Torok (202-C-90) exploded with 28 points and 13 rebounds as Romania improved at 1-1 record in Group G. Switzerland slipped at 0-1 record in the ladder.
Romania opened the game with a 10:0 run. They maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter and were up by 15 points into the second term 22:7. Fridel and Peter Ishiodu (196-F-91) dragged Switzerland closer at the start of the second term. But Bogdan Tibirna (208-C-91) completed the first half with 16 points to his tally and helped Romania accumulate a 40:28 halftime advantage. Romania opened the second half with a 10:3 surge to boost the margin. Switzerland had little to answer with as Romania were up by 26 points heading into the fourth quarter. Switzerland never got too close despite a 6:0 start of the final quarter and Romania ran away for the win. Bogdan Tibirna had 26 points and 12 rebounds for Romania. Adrian Gutoaia (195-C-90) added 9 points in the victory. Christophe Varidel (185-G-89) came up with 23 points for Switzerland but committed 10 turnovers. Peter Ishiodu finished with 8 points in the loss.

Switzerland U20: Christophe Varidel 23, Peter Ishiodu 8
Romania U20: Rolland Torok 28+13 boards, Bogdan Tibirna 26+12 boards, Adrian Gutoaia 9


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SYRIA

Draw completed for 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup - by Maarouf Mawloud
Fiba Asia....

BEIRUT, Lebanon (3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup): FIBA Asia champions Iran were drawn in Group A and hosts Lebanon in Group B for the forthcoming 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup to be played in Beirut from Aug 7-15.
The draw was completed at Ghazir Sporting Club, Beirut the venue for the competition on Monday.

Joining Iran in Group A are fellow West Asian team Iraq who will make a comeback to FIBA Asia mens National Team competitions after a gap of almost a quarter of a century. Iraq had last played in the 14th edition of FIBA Asia Championship, when it was hosted by Bangkok in 1987.

East Asian duo Chinese Taipei and Japan and Middle Asias Kazakhstan are the other teams in Group A.

Jordan complete the fray

Group B will witness stiff competition between hosts Lebanon and Jordan who have both qualified to represent FIBA Asia in the 2010 FIBA World Championship to be played in Turkey from Aug 28-Sept 12.

Jordan, who won the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship in Tianjin last year to qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, were given a wildcard entry. Jordan, in fact, will enter the fray as the defending champions of the FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup, having won the gold medal in the 2008 edition at Kuwait.

Former FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup champions and top GCC team Qatar, South East Asias Philippines and West Asias Syria are the other teams in Group B.

Commenting on the draw FIBA Asia Deputy Secretary General Hagop Khajirian, who was present at the draw ceremony said: The fray for the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the most competitive in all the three editions of this event.

My opinion is that the draw, which is rather well balanced, only augurs well for the high-pitched battles basketball fans of Lebanon are expecting from this competition, Khajirian.

Explaining the entry of Jordan into the competition, Khajirian, who is also the Chairman of the FIBA Asia Media and Marketing Committee said: It is logical, isnt it? We had one slot vacant. It was obvious that a team representing FIBA Asia in the FIBA World Championship deserves to get that slot more than any other team. And lets not forget Jordan will defend their title when they play in this competition.

FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani said: Three teams in this competition are heading to Turkey for the 2010 FIBA World Championship. It cant get more exciting for the basketball fans in Asia in general, and Lebanon in particular.

FIBA Asia Secretary General Dato Yeoh Choo Hock said: Along with teams preparing for the FIBA World Championship, this is also the qualifying tournament for next years FIBA Asia Championship, which also will be hosted by Lebanon in Beirut.

Therefore, in more than one sense, the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is a very good dress rehearsal for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship next year, which will qualify FIBA Asias representative to the 2012 London Olympics.

About 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup

The 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the qualifying event for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011, incidentally also to be hosted at Beirut, which in turn will be the qualifying event for 2012 London Olympics.

The winners of the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will automatically qualify for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011. The top five teams at the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will earn additional berths for their respective FIBA Asia sub zones.

System of competition

The 10 teams are drawn into two Groups of five each for the Preliminary Round. Each team will play all the others in their respective Groups. The top four from each Group will advance to the knockout Quarterfinals. The teams finishing fifth in the groups will play off for the 9th place.

Group A : Iran,Iraq,Japan,Kazakhstan and Chinese Taipei
Group B : Jordan,Lebanon,philippines,Qatar and Syria


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TAIWAN

Bahrami named 2010 Jones Cup men's MVP - by Chris Wang
Iranian forward Mohammad Samad Nikkhah Bahrami was named 2010 William Jones Cup Most valuable Player in the men's competition. Bahrami deserves the award for his consistent and explosive scoring for Iran, which has won back-to-back champions in the Jones Cup and the Asian Championship (2007, 2009).

Best Five:
F Marcus Douthit, Philippines
F Mohammad Samad Nikkhah Bahrami, Iran
F Takuya Kawamura, Japan
G Lee Hsueh-lin, Taiwan
G Yuta Tabuse, Japan

Final men's placing:

1. Iran 6-0
2. Lebanon 5-1
3. Japan 4-2
4. Philippines 3-3
5. Taiwan 2-4
6. Taiwan University All-Stars 1-5
7. Australia Crocs 0-6

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TURKEY

Oyak Renault signed Gibson - by Sinan Can
OYAK Renault finallyy made their first action in the market as Bursa side signed one year deal with Jonathan Gibson (188-G, college: N.Mexico St.) . Due to Coach Yucel Platin's report, Oyak Renault management agreed in terms with New Mexico State star. Gibson averaged 17.5 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game on his senior year at Aggies. Gibson will have a leader role on this years Oyak Renault team with his scoring and play-making skills.

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Jazz: Raja Bell makes his return official - by David Edole
They didnt pick up the phone to chat or exchange hugs before games, but Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) said he made a point of expressing his appreciation every time he crossed paths with Jazz coach Jerry Sloan in the five years since he left Utah.

With Bell making his return to the Jazz official Monday, general manager Kevin OConnor said simply, Were really happy to have somebody back thats as competitive and as caring about wins and losses as our head coach is.

More than just Bells 3-point shooting and perimeter defense, the Jazz are counting on the 33-year-old guard to serve as the hard-nosed embodiment of what Sloans teams have been about for the past two decades.

We always missed what he gave us, OConnor said, adding, I dont think we had anybody to accept the challenge over the last [five] years on the perimeter like he did for the two years that he was here.

For his part, Bell said, I think Jerry feels comfortable that if he asks me to try to run through the door that I try to run through it for him.

After leaving for Phoenix as a free agent with the Jazz rebuilding in 2005, Bell now returns to a contender that has made the playoffs four consecutive seasons.

Theres an opportunity to do something really cool, maybe fly under the radar, Bell said, and you always know with Jerry and his staff that hes going to put his team in the best position to utilize what you have.

Asked to compare himself now to during his first stint with the Jazz, Bell said he was a young and emotional player then, determined to prove he belonged in the NBA. The technical fouls come far less frequently now that hes more mature and settled.

'I was really riding a fine line every night I was on the court, Bell said, adding, I think now Im a lot more comfortable in my own skin as a player and able to kind of embrace that and do what a team needs me to do more so than what I want to do every night.

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UBA

URBL Stats Leaders

UBA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1. Hill, Team Japan 33.3 2. Barnes, GIE 26.6 3. Horton, Austin K. 18.0 4. Eichelberger, Aus 16.0 5. DeVaughn, SG 15.6

Rebounds Per Game

1. Hill, Team Japan 17.3 2. DeVaughn, SG 12.0 3. Shewmake, GIE 10.0 4. Eichelberger, Aus 9.0 5. Stroud, GIE 8.6

Assists Per Game

1. Horton, Austin K. 10.0 2. Williams, GIE 9.6 3. De La Cruz, SG 8.0 4. Okayama, Japan 6.1 5. Barnes, GIE 5.0

Steals Per Game

1. Williams, GIE 4.0 2. Horton, Austin K. 3.6 3. Britt, S.Generals 2.5 4. Fujimara, Japan 2.0 5. Barnes, GIE 2.0

Blocks Per Game

1. Moore, S.Generals 5.0 2. Hill, Team Japan 3.6 3. Terrell, GIE 2.0 4. Dodd, Team Japan 1.6 5. Woodyard, GIE 1.0

2FGP

1.Boyd, DFW .913 2.Fisher, Con .750 3.James, Irving .532 4.Cato, Con .500 5.Barnes, DFW .500

3FGP

1.Douglas, DFW 100 2.Harner, Con .700 3.James, Irving .600 4.Tranquier, Texas .500 5.Barnes, DFW .495

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UNITED KINGDOM

Richmond Selection comes back from Poland - by Eurobasket News
Richmond Selection comes back from Poland as the team particpated at the Future Stars Tournament with six U18 teams participated in it. Poland invited the young players from Spain, Slovenia, Great Britain, Sweden and France.
Spain destroyed Richmond 106:57 with 22-8 in the opening quarter. Spain added 27-16 in the second frame and never looked behind after. Moreover they won the third period 25-19 and the last 32-14. Creus and Aparicio top-scored for the winners with 15 points each, while Diaz and Alejandro Barrera (199-F/C-92) scored 13 apiece. Johnson answered with 18 points in the losing case and Anti Hanson (185-G-92) scored 11. Alfaki and Vaughn produced 5 each, whilst Raptapoulos and McLean netted 4 apiece.
Slovenia rolled over Richmond 89:61 mostly to the third period that they won 26-6. Slovenia also won the opening quarter 24-16 and never looked behind in the game. Omic top-scored for the winners with 15 points, while Klemen Prepelic (190-G-92) nailed 13. Besedic delivered 12 and Hodzic posted 10.
Richmond surprised Sweden 68:62 in the last game before the Play-offs. Richmond Selection started with 18-16, but Sweden won the second and the third periods. Richmond Selection needed 26-15 to win their game. Valiant Hed Taqi nailed 14 points for Sweden and Sebastian Norman scored 11.
In the game for the fifth place Slovenia outscored Richmond 47:26 as the game consisted of just two quarters. Slovenia opened the game with 28-13 and added 19-13 in the second period. Hodzic top-scored for the winners with 8 points and Matej Rojc (198-G-93) scored 7. Jan Span (189-G-92) and Pajic brought their side 6 points apiece.


Great Britain boost their title ambitions with win over Poland - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain U20 - Poland U20 98:89

Great Britain stepped closer to the semifinal stage of the U20 European Championship in Division B. They held off previously undefeated Poland for 3-1 record in Group F. Great Britain thus caught up with Poland in the ladder. Ovie Soko (203-F-91) came up with 29 points and 7 rebounds for Great Britain.
Piotr Pamula (195-G-90) notched 9 points in the starting quarter to help Poland to the brave start. Aiming at the fifth straight at the tournament Poland rallied to a 22:20 lead at the first intermission. Sulima and Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91) stretched the lead early in the second term. But Great Britain went on a 13:5 run late in the first half to accumulate a 57:50 lead. The British side boosted the margin to 14 points midway through the third term. Poland got closer but still trailed by 7 points heading into the fourth quarter 71:78. Mokros, Czyz and Wojciechowski drew things level at the start of the fourth term. Great Britain however notched 9 points in a row late in regulation and cleared off for good in this one. William Neighbour (203-F-90) nailed 22 points for Great Britain. Alex Marcotullio (191-G-91) and Andrew Lawrence (185-G-90) contributed 15 points apiece in the win. Piotr Pamula answered with 28 points for Poland. Sebastian Szymanski accounted for 15 points in defeat.

Great Britain U20: Ovie Soko 29, William Neighbour 22, Alex Marcotullio 15, Andrew Lawrence 15
Poland U20: Piotr Pamula 28, Sebastian Szymanski 15


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URUGUAY

The Metro League began playoffs for a second promotion - by Hector Lopez
Larranaga beat Yale 105- 91 and Verdirrojo defeated Larre Borges 95-83, at the opening games for the best of five Metro League semifinal series.. The winner will join Waston, the Metro League champions to play the 2011 Uruguayan League. According the the results during the regular season Larranaga and Larre Borges began the semifinals 1-0.
Larranaga 105 - Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) 18 points, Elgrace Wilborn (203-F-83, agency: Liman Sports, college: W.Kentucky) 12 points 10 rebounds
Yale 91 - Tarrie Monroe (202-F-77, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Lewis) 28 points 10 rebounds 6 assists
- - -
Verdirrojo 95 - Joaquin Osimani (193-F-87) 30 points, Nicolas Delgado (198-F/C-87) 26 points 18 rebounds
Larre Borges 83 - Marcos Cabot (178-G-89) 21 points Roberto Amaro (197-F-69) 12 points 9 rebounds.


Uruguay named the NT for the South American tournament - by Hector Lopez
Uruguay named the NT to play the South American Championship in Neiva (Colombia), from July 26 to July 31. The HC Gerardo Jauri named the following players:
Bruno Fitipaldo (183-G-91)
Fernando Martinez (170-G-79)
Martin Osimani (194-G-81, college: Duquesne)
Joaquin Izuibejeres (184-G-82)
Joaquin Osimani (193-F-87)
Ivan Loriente (184-G-92)
Mauricio Aguiar (199-F-83, agency: Players Group)
Mathias Calfani (199-C-92)
Sebastian Izaguirre (207-C/F-85)
Reque Newsome (203-C-81, college: S.Indiana)
Gaston Paez (206-C/F-79)
Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83)
Uruguay will play Group A, with Brazil, Paraguay and Chile, and Group B will be played by Argentina, Venezuela, Ecuador and Colombia. The two best teams from each group will qualyfor the semifinals. Four teams qualify for the 2011 preolimpic tournament to be played in Mar del Plata, and three teams will qualify for the Panamerican Games (GUdalajara, Mexico, 2011)

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VENEZUELA

Jorge Arrieta won't coach Gaiteros in LPB 2011 - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Head coach Jorge Arrieta decided not to continue in front of Gaiteros del Zulia's coaching staff for the LPB 2011 season, as the general management of that franchise made an insufficient offer to Arrieta for his renovation and they were unable to come to terms.

Arrieta was contacted via phone by Latinbasket.com Venezuela and explained what happened, declaring himself 'available' for any organization that offers him 'a true proyect to work on', though he would not confirm if there's any true in a possible interest by teams such as Marinos de Anzoategui or Bucaneros de La Guaira. Arrieta won two LPB championships with Marinos back in 2003 and 2004.

A native of Maracaibo, Zulia, Arrieta said he was sad about the situation, but could do nothing about it. 'I wanted to stay home with my family, as I feel Gaiteros is kind of like my team, since I started both my playing and coaching career with that franchise. We've always had a good working relationship and in three seasons I led them to two semifinals and ona LPB Finals, though the dream of winning the championship with them hasn't come true yet', he said.

'I had my aspirations since they had asked me to make a sacrifice this season and earn less money due to the team's difficult finantial situation. They promised to reward me in 2011 and they just didn't. What they offered me wasn't in the reality of this league and I didn't think it was satisfactory. It didn't match what other coaches make', he added.

Arrieta would not say who's contacted him, but acknowledged he had been 'tempted' by other teams in the past. 'I always said my first choice was Gaiteros, but now that it isn't so anymore, I'm willing to work for any team with a serious proyect to work on, no matter if the team is in the top 4 or not'.

For now, he'll coach Lanceros de Cojedes in the upcoming Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB 2010), set to begin on August 10th, while he also had offers to go back to Mexico, where he coached Angeles de Puebla in the past couple of seasons. Puebla will now be coached by Venezuelan Nelson Solorzano .

Venezuela shortens team to 15 players, hosts exhibition tournament in La Guaira - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The Senior Team of Venezuela saw its 19-men roster shortened to 15 by head coach Nestor Salazar, as they moved from Cumana, Sucre to La Guaira, Vargas, to continue trainings towards the 2010 ABASU South American Championship, to be played in Neiva, Colombia, from July 26th till July 31st and for which the team will host an exhibition tournament in La Guaira against Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina from July 21st til the 23rd.

Salazar cut small forwards Michael Flores (192-G-85) and Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) and power forwards Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) and Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80), leaving the roster with guards Gregory Vargas (182-G-86), Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) and David Cubillan (183-G-87), shooting guards Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) and Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82), small forwards Juan Herrera (197-F-81), Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85), Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) and Luis Valera (201-F-88), power forwards Windy Graterol (204-C-86), Axiers Sucre (198-F-78), Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) and Hector Romero (202-F-80) and centers Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) and Miguel Marriaga (208-C-84).

The team is playing without former star center Richard Lugo (209-C-73), who was not taken into account due to his age (37), and lacks a true center. Guard Greivis Vasquez (198-G-87) could not come due to compromises with the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA, former NBA small forward Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) had surgery in his knee and point guards Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) and Heissler Guillent (186-G-86) were not included due to injuries sustained in the LPB 2010 season. Academic issues held out power forwards Nestor Colmenares (203-F), from the Campbellsville Tigers in the NAIA and Gregory Echenique (206-F-90), from the Creighton Blue Jays in the NCAA 1.

The tournament in Colombia offers three spots for the Panamerican Games in Guadalajara, Mexico (2011) and four spots for the 2011 FIBA Americas Pre Olympic Tournament, to be played in Mar del Plata, Argentina. Venezuela will face Argentina, Colombia and Ecuador in Group B and Group A will host Brazil, Uruguay, Chile and Paraguay.

Venezuela already played four matches against Panama and Belice as visitors with a 3-1 record while those teams were getting ready for the 2010 Centrobasket Tournament, played in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

This time, the 'Vinotinto' team will use Jose Maria Vargas Dome in La Guaira to face Uruguay, Brazil and Argentina for three days prior to the trip to Colombia and Salazar will use the games to determine who stays and who leaves.

While Argentina and Brazil are using 'B' teams, Venezuela and Uruguay have some of their main guns in action. Brazil and Argentina have their 'A' teams set to work for the 2010 FIBA World Cup, to be played in Turkey.


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WILLIAM JONES CUP

2010 Jones Cup: Iran wins back-to-back men's title - by Chris Wang
Iran beat Taiwan 92-82 Tuesday to go undefeated and retain the championship in the 2010 R. Williams Jones Cup basketball tournament, further solidifying its position as an Asian basketball powerhouse.

The West Asian country also won back-to-back champions in the 2007 and 2009 Asian Men's Basketball Championship, which was in the past traditionally dominated by China and South Korea.

Trailing at one point by as many as 14 points, Iran rallied from 11 points down at half-time and used a 54-33 run in the second half and its height advantage in the paint to turn the game around, finishing the single round robin men's competition with a perfect 6-0 record.

Lebanon beat the Philippines 73-62 and finished runner-up with five wins and one loss, while Japan came third with four wins and two losses after an 83-67 win over the Taiwan University All-Stars.

Taiwan's national team and the Taiwan University All-Stars finished the tournament, Taiwan's most popular annual international competition, 2-4 and 1-5, respectively.

The Philippines (3-3) and the Crocodiles from Australia (0-6) ranked fourth and seventh in the men's group.

South Korea's Sinsegae Coolcats beat the Taiwan women's national team 80-68 to win the women's competition a day earlier.

Bahrami named 2010 Jones Cup men's MVP - by Chris Wang
Iranian forward Mohammad Samad Nikkhah Bahrami was named 2010 William Jones Cup Most valuable Player in the men's competition. Bahrami deserves the award for his consistent and explosive scoring for Iran, which has won back-to-back champions in the Jones Cup and the Asian Championship (2007, 2009).

Best Five:
F Marcus Douthit, Philippines
F Mohammad Samad Nikkhah Bahrami, Iran
F Takuya Kawamura, Japan
G Lee Hsueh-lin, Taiwan
G Yuta Tabuse, Japan

Final men's placing:

1. Iran 6-0
2. Lebanon 5-1
3. Japan 4-2
4. Philippines 3-3
5. Taiwan 2-4
6. Taiwan University All-Stars 1-5
7. Australia Crocs 0-6

Standings

Standings

1. Iran 6-0 2. Lebanon 5-1 3. Japan 4-2 4. Philippines 3-3 5. Taiwan 2-4 6. Taiwan B 1-5 7. Australia 0-6

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WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Draw completed for 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup - by Maarouf Mawloud
Fiba Asia....

BEIRUT, Lebanon (3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup): FIBA Asia champions Iran were drawn in Group A and hosts Lebanon in Group B for the forthcoming 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup to be played in Beirut from Aug 7-15.
The draw was completed at Ghazir Sporting Club, Beirut the venue for the competition on Monday.

Joining Iran in Group A are fellow West Asian team Iraq who will make a comeback to FIBA Asia mens National Team competitions after a gap of almost a quarter of a century. Iraq had last played in the 14th edition of FIBA Asia Championship, when it was hosted by Bangkok in 1987.

East Asian duo Chinese Taipei and Japan and Middle Asias Kazakhstan are the other teams in Group A.

Jordan complete the fray

Group B will witness stiff competition between hosts Lebanon and Jordan who have both qualified to represent FIBA Asia in the 2010 FIBA World Championship to be played in Turkey from Aug 28-Sept 12.

Jordan, who won the bronze medal at the 25th FIBA Asia Championship in Tianjin last year to qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Championship, were given a wildcard entry. Jordan, in fact, will enter the fray as the defending champions of the FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup, having won the gold medal in the 2008 edition at Kuwait.

Former FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup champions and top GCC team Qatar, South East Asias Philippines and West Asias Syria are the other teams in Group B.

Commenting on the draw FIBA Asia Deputy Secretary General Hagop Khajirian, who was present at the draw ceremony said: The fray for the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the most competitive in all the three editions of this event.

My opinion is that the draw, which is rather well balanced, only augurs well for the high-pitched battles basketball fans of Lebanon are expecting from this competition, Khajirian.

Explaining the entry of Jordan into the competition, Khajirian, who is also the Chairman of the FIBA Asia Media and Marketing Committee said: It is logical, isnt it? We had one slot vacant. It was obvious that a team representing FIBA Asia in the FIBA World Championship deserves to get that slot more than any other team. And lets not forget Jordan will defend their title when they play in this competition.

FIBA Asia president Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al-Thani said: Three teams in this competition are heading to Turkey for the 2010 FIBA World Championship. It cant get more exciting for the basketball fans in Asia in general, and Lebanon in particular.

FIBA Asia Secretary General Dato Yeoh Choo Hock said: Along with teams preparing for the FIBA World Championship, this is also the qualifying tournament for next years FIBA Asia Championship, which also will be hosted by Lebanon in Beirut.

Therefore, in more than one sense, the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is a very good dress rehearsal for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship next year, which will qualify FIBA Asias representative to the 2012 London Olympics.

About 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup

The 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup is the qualifying event for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011, incidentally also to be hosted at Beirut, which in turn will be the qualifying event for 2012 London Olympics.

The winners of the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will automatically qualify for the 26th FIBA Asia Championship in 2011. The top five teams at the 3rd FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup will earn additional berths for their respective FIBA Asia sub zones.

System of competition

The 10 teams are drawn into two Groups of five each for the Preliminary Round. Each team will play all the others in their respective Groups. The top four from each Group will advance to the knockout Quarterfinals. The teams finishing fifth in the groups will play off for the 9th place.

Group A : Iran,Iraq,Japan,Kazakhstan and Chinese Taipei
Group B : Jordan,Lebanon,philippines,Qatar and Syria





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Women News

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ARGENTINA - Women

U17 Australia cruises past U17 Argentina in Toulouse - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): AUSTRALIA - ARGENTINA 77-57

Both teams had 1-1 record before this meeting. Australia demonstrated great performance registering 77-57 win and joined Belgium on the second place. Argentina slipped to 1-2 and now has the same score as Spain. Gretel Tippett (190-F-93) was a key player in victory with 21 points and 8 rebounds. She reached valuation 24 and grabbed the MVP title for this meeting. Tayla Roberts (191-F/C-93) also was great adding 20 points and 6 boards. Third scorer in Australia was Lauren Nicholson (182-F-93) with 7 pts. Argentina on the other side did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Julieta Vazquez (173-F-93) was their leading player with 9 points.
Australia had a great beginning as they smashed Argentina in Q1 with 25-8. These ten minutes, together with Q3, were the crucial in this meeting. Argentina slightly improved the second frame, but was not able to avoid 41-27 deficit at the half time. Australia once again demonstrated its power ending Q3 with 23-12 for 25-point lead with ten minutes to go in the game. They slowed down after that and Argentina used that opportunity to cut the margin for five points.
On Tuesday, Australia will play against Mali and another easy win is expected. Argentina will take on Japan, who currently has 2-1 record.

Australia: Gretel Tippett 21+8 boards, Tayla Roberts 20+6 boards, Lauren Nicholson 7
Argentina: Julieta Vazquez 9

Standings - Women

Liga Nacional Standings

1. Lanus 9-1   2. Velez S. 8-2   3. C.Entrerriano 7-3   4. Union Florida 6-4   5. Recreo 3-7   6. Ben Hur 3-8   7. San Agustin 0-11

Velez Sarsfield clinch Liga Nacional title - by Eurobasket News
Velez Sarsfield repeated as Liga Nacional champions. Velez held off Lanus in the final game of Top 4 round to clinch the title. Paula Reggiardo (84) scored 14 points to lead Velez to a 63:51 victory in the decisive game. Velez posted a 17:15 lead at the first break. They stretched the gap to as many as 7 points at halftime. Lanus could not recover in the second half as Velez rallied to the victory. Mariana Cava (168-G-85) nailed 11 points for Velez. Sandra Pavon (175-F-85) and Sofia Castillo (175-G-88) added 10 points each in the victory. Nadia Flores (174-G-90) and Luciana Zinna (85) accounted for 13 points each for Lanus.
Union Florida finished in the second position in the ladder. They wrapped up their campaign with a 63:59 win over Central Enterriano. Marcela Paoletta (170-G-79) notched 18 points to lead the effort. Daniela Benvenutto added 15 points for the winners. Veronica Soberon (177-G/F-77) replied with 11 points. Erica Sanchez (182-F/C-76) had 10 points for Central Enterriano as they occupied the fourth position.
Marcela Paoletta was named the MVP of the championship.

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AUSTRALIA - Women

U17 Australia cruises past U17 Argentina in Toulouse - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): AUSTRALIA - ARGENTINA 77-57

Both teams had 1-1 record before this meeting. Australia demonstrated great performance registering 77-57 win and joined Belgium on the second place. Argentina slipped to 1-2 and now has the same score as Spain. Gretel Tippett (190-F-93) was a key player in victory with 21 points and 8 rebounds. She reached valuation 24 and grabbed the MVP title for this meeting. Tayla Roberts (191-F/C-93) also was great adding 20 points and 6 boards. Third scorer in Australia was Lauren Nicholson (182-F-93) with 7 pts. Argentina on the other side did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Julieta Vazquez (173-F-93) was their leading player with 9 points.
Australia had a great beginning as they smashed Argentina in Q1 with 25-8. These ten minutes, together with Q3, were the crucial in this meeting. Argentina slightly improved the second frame, but was not able to avoid 41-27 deficit at the half time. Australia once again demonstrated its power ending Q3 with 23-12 for 25-point lead with ten minutes to go in the game. They slowed down after that and Argentina used that opportunity to cut the margin for five points.
On Tuesday, Australia will play against Mali and another easy win is expected. Argentina will take on Japan, who currently has 2-1 record.

Australia: Gretel Tippett 21+8 boards, Tayla Roberts 20+6 boards, Lauren Nicholson 7
Argentina: Julieta Vazquez 9

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BELARUS - Women

U20 Spain jumps to 3-0 in Qualifying Group F, secures the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): BELARUS - SPAIN 69-91

Spain blasted Belarus for perfect 3-0 in Qualifying Group F. With this victory Spain already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Belarus on the other hand slipped to 0-3, but still has a chance to advance. Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90) paced Spain with 18 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. She reached valuation 29 and was totally the best player of this game. Cristina Ouvina (173-G-90) (8 as) and Amaya Gastaminza Ganuza (188-F-91) 11 and 9 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Katsiaryna Kashlei (166-G-90) led the scorers with 18 points. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C-92) had 14 points and 11 boards.
Spain took control on their rivals from the beginning. After opening ten minutes Spain was already 17-24 up. They continued in the same rhythm in Q2 grabbing 32-46 lead at the half time. Belarus was in trouble, but they couldnt do anything about that. Spain shined in Q3 as well ending it with 14-24 for huge 46-70. The game was already over for Belarus and last ten minutes were just the formality.
Spain will play against Lithuania on Tuesday and will try to continue its winning streak. Belarus will meet Italy.

Belarus: Katsiaryna Kashlei 18, Maryia Filonchyk 14+11 boards
Spain: Marta Xargay Casademont 18+14 boards+5 as, Cristina Ouvina 11+8 as, Amaya Gastaminza Ganuza 9

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BELGIUM - Women

U17 Belgium smashes U17 Spain in the last quarter for 54-55 thriller win - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): SPAIN - BELGIUM 54-55

Thriller win for Belgium, who shares the second place with Australia now (Group B, 2-1). At the same time, Spain dropped to 1-2 in the same pool. Julie Vanloo (172-G-93) stepped up for Belgium with 16 points. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) had two points less than her, but to go with 8 rebounds. Third scorer in victory was Lien Delmulle (179-F-93) with 8 points (7 rebs). In Spain, Andrea Vilaro (179-F-93) collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Silvia Marcelo (188-C-93) contributed with 10 points and 8 boards.
Belgium grabbed this one thanks to great last quarter. Before that, Spain made 19-11 lead in Q1. Everything started great for them as they looked pretty comfortable. Andrea Vilaro and her teammates finished the second period 17-15 for 10-point lead at the half time. Nothing has changed after the breather, as Spain won another quarter this time with 11-9. When it seemed that the game winner is already known, Belgium started to play. Julie Vanloo and Emma Meesseman were on fire and together with their teammates exploded in the last quarter ending it with impressive 7-20 for 54-55 victory.
Belgium will meet China on Tuesday. Spain will play against Argentina.

Spain: Andrea Vilaro 13+7 boards, Silvia Marcelo 10+8 boards
Belgium: Julie Vanloo 16, Emma Meesseman 14+8 boards, Lien Delmulle 8+7 boards

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BULGARIA - Women

U20 EC: Romania outguns Bulgaria in Liepaja - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): BULGARIA - ROMANIA 51-80

Romania made the first step forward to survival in Division A. They destroyed Bulgaria for 1-0 record in Group G. It was the first appearance for both teams at this stage. Gabriela Munteanu (177-F-88) had 24 pts and 6 rebs. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) also shined for the winners with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) followed with 14 pts and 9 rebs. In Bulgaria, Aleksandra Kancheva (182-F-90) delivered 13 pts and was the only one with double-digits in scoring.
Romania blasted Bulgaria in the first and last quarter. Gabriela Munteanu and her teammates created big 12-25 lead in the first ten minutes. Their rival slightly improved in the second frame, but still it was Romania who increased its lead to 24-39. Third quarter belonged to Bulgaria (13-10), but it was clear they will not be able to treat in this game. Romania smashed them 14-31 in the last ten minutes for the final 51-80 victory.
On Tuesday, Romania will meet Sweden. Bulgaria will take on Germany and will try to grab the first win at this event.

Bulgaria: Aleksandra Kancheva 13
Romania: Gabriela Munteanu 24+6 boards, Cristina Bigica 22+9 boards, Elisabeth Pavel 14+9 boards

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CAC GAMES - Women

Standings

Standings

Group A 1. P.Rico 2-0 2. US Virg.Isl 1-1 3. Trinid/T. 0-1 4. Saint Vince. 0-1 Group B 1. Dominican R. 1-0 2. Mexico 1-0 3. Jamaica 1-1 4. Guatemala 0-2

Day Two in Mayaguez - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

CAC Games, Day Two: Puerto Rico - U.S. Virgins Islands 82-55
Another great performance for Puerto Rico at CAC Games. After 118-24 victory against Saint Vincent in Day One, Puerto Rico blasted ISV 82-55 for 2-0 record in Group A. On the other side, ISV dropped to second place in this pool with 1-1. Sandra Garcia (189-F-90) top-scored for the winners with 16 points. Pamela Rosado (161-G-86) had one point less than her, while Michelle Pacheco (175-G/F-88) added 14 points and 6 assists. Jazmine Sepulveda (177-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: S.Florida) helped the hosts with double-double of 12 points and 10 boards. In the loosing squad, Yanique Javois (176-G-85, college: Saint Louis) shined with 20 points. Natalie Day (183-G/F-90) had 16 pts and 8 boards.
Puerto Rico opened the game in style making 24-9 lead in the first ten minutes. They continued in the same rhythm after that, so after twenty minutes of play the home side was huge 52-28 up. The game winner was already known and second half was just the formality. Third quarter ended with 12-12 tie, while Puerto Rico smashed ISV in the last one with 14-2. At the end totally deserved 82-55 for PUR, who once again proved they will be the main contender for the CAC title.
On Tuesday, Puerto Rico will meet Trinidad and Tobago. ISV will take on Saint Vincent.

Puerto Rico: Sandra Garcia 16, Pamela Rosado 15, Michelle Pacheco 14+6 as, Jazmine Sepulveda 12+10 boards
U.S. Virgins Islands: Yanique Javois 20, Natalie Day 16+8 boards


GROUP B

CAC Games, Day Two: Guatemala - Mexico 65-85
Mexico shined in their first appearances in Mayaguez. They outgunned Guatemala for 1-0 record in Group B, which also includes Jamaica and Dominican Republic. Guatemala dropped to 0-2 as they faced with defeat in Day One as well. Brisa Silva (168-G-84, college: Oklahoma St.) exploded in this victory. She spent 35 minutes on the court and drained 31 points. Silva had 5 triples in this game. Alexis Castro (184-G/F-86, agency: 22ft, college: Vermont) followed her with 12 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists, while Monica Garcia (172-G-86) added 11 points. Alma Lopez (165-G-86) replied with 21 points in defeat. Cynthia Rivera (177-F-82) and Maria Fleischmann (181-F/C-77) scored 12 points each.
Mexico took control on its rival from the beginning. Brisa Silva and her teammates grabbed 16-26 lead in Q1 and for rest of the first half jumped to plus 20. They slowed down after that and never had troubles to keep the safe distance. Third quarter ended 24-24 and the last one 13-13 for the final score of 65-85.
On Tuesday, Mexico will meet Dominican Republic on Tuesday. Guatemala will have a day-off.

Guatemala: Alma Lopez 21, Cynthia Rivera 12, Maria Fleischmann 12
Mexico: Brisa Silva 31, Alexis Castro 12+11 boards+6 as, Monica Garcia 11


CAC Games, Day Two: Dominican Republic - Jamaica 72-62
Dominican Republic had a reason for joy in their first appearance in Mayaguez. They grabbed 72-62 win against Jamaica for 1-0 in Group B. At the same time, it was the second game for Jamaica at this event and they slipped to 1-1. Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) was unstoppable in offense. She played almost the entire match netting 29 points. Sugeiry Monsac (186-F/C-81) secured a nice help for Dominican Republic with 14 points and 7 boards, while Charlenny Frias (177-G-84) added 10 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Simone Edwards (194-C-73, college: Iowa) shined with 19 points and 15 rebs. Vanessa Gidden (193-C/F-85, college: Hofstra) is another player with double-double in defeat (19 pts, 10 rebs), while Nicole Louden (172-G-83, college: Auburn) contributed with 17 points and 8 assists.
Dominican Republic better from the beginning. They had Carmen Guzman on fire which paced er team to 21-15 lead in Q1. They were good in the next ten minutes as well, taking 37-28 at the half time. Jamaica slightly improved after the breather (17-18), but they needed a way more. Jamaica limited Dominican Republic 7 points in the last period, but on the other side they scoredjust 12 and faced with 72-62 defeat.
On Tuesday, Dominican Republic will play against Mexico. Jamaica has a day-off.

Dominican Republic: Carmen Guzman 29, Sugeiry Monsac 14+7 boards, Charlenny Frias 10+5 as
Jamaica: Simone Edwards 19+15 boards, Vanessa Gidden 19+10 boards, Nicole Louden 17+8 as

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CANADA - Women

U17 USA beats U17 Canada to stay perfect in Rodez - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): USA - CANADA 114-57

USA destroyed Canada in North American derby for perfect 3-0 in Group A. It means that USA is currently the leading team of this pool. On the other side, Canada faced with the second loss in Rodez, but still has a chance to reach the Quarterfinals. Kaleena Lewis (6'0''-F-93) stepped up for USA with 21 points. She was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 25. Jewell Loyd (5'9''-G-93) scored 19 points (5 rebs), Bria Smith (5'10''-G-93) had 13, while Morgan Tuck (6'2''-F-94) (7 rebs) and Elizabeth Williams (6'3''-C-93) added 12 points each in this victory. In the loosing squad, Nirra Fields (5'8''-G-93) collected 17 points and 5 boards. Alexandria Kiss-Rusk (6'4''-C-93) has 11 pts and also 5 rebs.
USA won every single quarter in this game. They started with 28-20 in the first ten minutes and continued with 25-15 in the second frame. Nothing has changed after the breather as Canada was unable to resist against the powerful USA team. Kaleena Lewis and her teammates ended third quarter with 25-14 and already were huge 29 points up. They totally destroyed Canada in the last ten minutes (36-8) for the final 114-57 blowout.
On Tuesday, USA will meet Turkey. Canada will play very important game against Russia.

USA: Kaleena Lewis 21, Jewell Loyd 19+5 boards, Bria Smith 13, Morgan Tuck 12+7 boards, Elizabeth Williams 12
Canada: Nirra Fields 17+5 boards, Alexandria Kiss-Rusk 11+5 boards

Canada edge Chile to sweep test series - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Chile 74:38
Canada swept the exhibition series against Chile. The teams met at the Richmond Olympic Oval yesterday. Allison McNeill team claimed a comfortable victory. Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) knocked down 20 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace the effort.
Chile got to the brave start. They were up by one point 10:9 ten minutes into the encounter. But gradually the hosts took over. Kimberley Smith unloaded 10 points in the half dragging the home team in charge. Canada posted a 30:20 lead at halftime. The third term proved decisive. Canada outgunned their opponents 26:6 to boost the lead. Chile could not recover losing the fourth term 12:18 and surrendering at the end.
Natalie Achonwa (189-F-92) produced 12 points for the winners. Ziomara Morrison (193-C-89) accounted for 9 points and 16 rebounds for Chile. Canada will next face Sweden in two-game series. The first game is slated for July 27.

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CHILE - Women

Canada edge Chile to sweep test series - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Chile 74:38
Canada swept the exhibition series against Chile. The teams met at the Richmond Olympic Oval yesterday. Allison McNeill team claimed a comfortable victory. Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) knocked down 20 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace the effort.
Chile got to the brave start. They were up by one point 10:9 ten minutes into the encounter. But gradually the hosts took over. Kimberley Smith unloaded 10 points in the half dragging the home team in charge. Canada posted a 30:20 lead at halftime. The third term proved decisive. Canada outgunned their opponents 26:6 to boost the lead. Chile could not recover losing the fourth term 12:18 and surrendering at the end.
Natalie Achonwa (189-F-92) produced 12 points for the winners. Ziomara Morrison (193-C-89) accounted for 9 points and 16 rebounds for Chile. Canada will next face Sweden in two-game series. The first game is slated for July 27.

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CHINA - Women

U17 China shines once again in Toulouse - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): CHINA - MALI 103-54

Third appearance and third win for China in Toulouse. It means that China stays on top of Group B, while Belgium and Argentina follow them with 2-1 record. Mali faced with third straight loss and they are dead last in this pool. Li Meng (185-G-95) shined once again for China collecting 18 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. He had impressive valuation 30. Yang LiWei (175-G-95) had 16 points, while Yang Xi (184-F-94) added one less. In Mali, Fatoumata Sanou (185-C-93) was good with 15 points. Sadio Konate (180-F/C-94) scored 10.
China dominated during the entire game. They started with impressive 31-13 in the first quarter and continued with 26-13 for the next ten minutes. It means that China was huge 57-26 up at the half time and already resolved question about the winner. Anyway, they didnt stop after that making 20-11 in Q3. Last ten minutes were just the formality, but Li Meng and her teammates won that quarter was well (26-17) for the final 103-54 victory.
China will play against Belgium on Tuesday. Mali will meet Australia.

China: Li Meng 18+7 boards+8 as, Yang LiWei 16, Yang Xi 15
Mali: Fatoumata Sanou 15, Sadio Konate 10

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CROATIA - Women

Croatia U18 continues preparation for Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18 continues preparation for Timisoara, Romania that will host U18 European championship from July 29 through August 8 in Division B. The best two teams of each pool will advance into the Qualifying Round. The best two teams of the tournament will get promotion to Division A. Croatia will play with Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Denmark in Group B.
Recently the team played some friendly games at the tournament of four in Slovenia. In Day 1 the hosts won over Croatia U18 68:64. The latter opened the game with 18-14 and added 16-13 in the second period. Slovenia needed 25-11 in the third frame to win the game. Nika Baric (169-G-92) exploded with 32 points for the winners and Gortnar nailed 16. Abramovic posted 9, while Tina Jakovina (182-G-92) delivered 6.
Croatia stun Hungary 79:57 in Day 2 as the winners sttarted well in the game. Croatia opened the first quarter with 29-10, but then Hungary won the second frame 15-14. In the second half the teams again exchanged the victories in the periods that brought the total success fro Croatia. For Hungary Brigitta Barta (182-F-93) scored 12 points and Zele netted 11. Szidonia Katona (182-F-93) and Szabo B. delivered 8 points each, while Szabo F. posted 5.

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Women

CAC Games: Dominican Republic too strong for Jamaica 72-62 - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Day Two: Dominican Republic - Jamaica 72-62

Dominican Republic had a reason for joy in their first appearance in Mayaguez. They grabbed 72-62 win against Jamaica for 1-0 in Group B. At the same time, it was the second game for Jamaica at this event and they slipped to 1-1. Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) was unstoppable in offense. She played almost the entire match netting 29 points. Sugeiry Monsac (186-F/C-81) secured a nice help for Dominican Republic with 14 points and 7 boards, while Charlenny Frias (177-G-84) added 10 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Simone Edwards (194-C-73, college: Iowa) shined with 19 points and 15 rebs. Vanessa Gidden (193-C/F-85, college: Hofstra) is another player with double-double in defeat (19 pts, 10 rebs), while Nicole Louden (172-G-83, college: Auburn) contributed with 17 points and 8 assists.
Dominican Republic better from the beginning. They had Carmen Guzman on fire which paced er team to 21-15 lead in Q1. They were good in the next ten minutes as well, taking 37-28 at the half time. Jamaica slightly improved after the breather (17-18), but they needed a way more. Jamaica limited Dominican Republic 7 points in the last period, but on the other side they scoredjust 12 and faced with 72-62 defeat.
On Tuesday, Dominican Republic will play against Mexico. Jamaica has a day-off.

Dominican Republic: Carmen Guzman 29, Sugeiry Monsac 14+7 boards, Charlenny Frias 10+5 as
Jamaica: Simone Edwards 19+15 boards, Vanessa Gidden 19+10 boards, Nicole Louden 17+8 as

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20 - Women

W-Standings - Group A

Standings

Group E 1. France 3-1 2. Latvia 3-1 3. Russia 3-1 4. Ukraine 1-3 5. Holland 1-3 6. Poland 1-3 Group F 1. Spain 4-0 2. Turkey 3-1 3. Lithuania 2-2 4. Serbia 2-2 5. Belarus 1-3 6. Italy 0-4 Group G 1. Germany 2-0 2. Romania 2-0 3. Sweden 0-2 4. Bulgaria 0-2

Division B: Day Four in Kavadarci - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Slovakia - Israel 60-53
Slovakia jumped to 2-1 in Group A securing the Quarterfinals in Kavadarci. Klaudia Lukacovicova (193-C-90) stepped up for the winners with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Idit Oryon (182-F-90) replied with 11 points for Israel, who dropped to 2-2. Israel also already qualified for the next stage.

Austria - Greece 51-55
First victory for Greece in Kavadarci, while on the other side Austria faced with third straight loss. It was a do-or-die game for both teams. Angeliki Nikolopoulou (179-G-91) exploded with 24 points for the winners. Julia Koppl (187-F-91) netted 19 pts and grabbed 6 rebounds in defeat.

Group B

Czech Republic - United Kingdom 72-58
Third straight win for Czech Republic, who pretends to win the first place in Group B. They got 22 points from Dana Kuslitova (183-F-90) today. The UK faced with the first loss in Kavadarci (3-1), having only Mairi Buchan (188-F/C-90) with double-digits in scoring (12 pts).

FYR Macedonia - Belgium 63-64
Both teams entered to this game with 0-2. Belgium grabbed maybe the crucial win and they joined Hungary now with 1-2 record. Miete Celus (175-G/F-91) came up with 24 points and 6 rebounds in this victory. Jelena Antik (187-F-91) was great in defeat with 26 pts and 18 boards.

Division A, Qualifying Round: Day Five in Liepaja - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Ukraine - Holland 86-73
Ukraine grabbed valuable win against Holland so there is a three way tie now in Group E, all with 1-3 record (Ukraine, Holland and Poland). Olesia Malashenko (188-F-91, agency: LBM Management) shined in victory with 24 points and 11 rebounds. Holland got 24 points and 8 boards from Natalie Van den Adel (185-G-90).

France - Latvia 67-70
The hosts of this event surprised France handing them the first loss in Liepaja. These two teams are together with Russia on top of Group E now with 3-1 record. Anete Klintsone (175-G-90) was a key player in victory with 19 points. Pauline Thizy (190-C-90) netted 16 points in defeat.

Poland - Russia 62-75
Russia jumped to 3-1, while Poland dropped to 1-3 after this meeting. Anna Ostroukhova (170-G-90) top-scored for Russia with 15 points and they had five more players with double-digit. Olivia Tomialowicz (178-G-90) collected 17 points in defeat.

Group F

Spain - Lithuania 80-68
Perfect 4-0 for Spain in Group F and they already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Lithuania slipped to 2-2 and still has a nice chance to advance. Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90) paced the winners with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) collected 19 pts and 15 rebounds on the other side.

Belarus - Italy 61-60
Belarus grabbed thriller win against Italy and with this one stayed in the race for QFinals. Italy will end as the last ranked team in this group. Katsiaryna Kashlei (166-G-90) led Belarus in scoring with 15 points. Gilda Cerri (185-C/F-90) had 14 pts and 12 boards in Italy.

Serbia - Turkey 75-71
Serbia grabbed valuable 75-71 win against Turkey and joined Lithuania on third place with 2-2 record. Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) exploded with 22 points and 8 rebounds in this victory. Turkey, who faced with the first loss at this event, got 15 pts from Yasemen Saylar (173-G-90).

Places 13-16

Romania - Sweden 67-50
Romania blasted Sweden and secured survival in Division A. On the other side, Sweden will compete in Division B next year as they dropped to 0-2 in Group G. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) was a key player in Romania with double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds. Danielle Hamilton Carter (187-F-90, college: Fayetteville) had 18 pts and 8 rebounds in Sweden.

Germany - Bulgaria 70-58
Germany survived in Division A, while Bulgaria will play in Division B next season. Stephanie Wagner (181-F-90) came up with 18 points and 5 rebounds in this victory. Antonia Zagorova (190-F/C-90) also scored 18 pts (8 rebs), but in defeat.

Standings Div.B (Women) - by Eurobasket News

Standings Div.B

Group A 1. Portugal 3-0 2. Slovakia 2-1 3. Israel 2-2 4. Greece 1-2 5. Austria 0-3 Group B 1. Czech Repu. 3-0 2. U.Kingdom 3-1 3. Hungary 1-2 4. Belgium 1-2 5. FYR Macedo. 0-3

Stats Leaders (Women)

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Marina SOLOPOVA   (180-G/F-90)   Avg: 23.6

1. Solopova, LTU 23.6   2. Malashenko, UKR 17.6   3. Niedola, LAT 16.8   4. Gultekin, SWE 14.6   5. Klein, NED 14.6   6. Canitez, TUR 14.4   7. Hamilton Car., SWE 14.4   8. Munteanu, ROM 14.0   9. Iagupova, UKR 14.0   10. Saylar, TUR 13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Giedre PAUGAITE   (192-C-90)   Avg: 13.8

1. Paugaite, LTU 13.8   2. Canitez, TUR 13.2   3. Manta, ROM 9.4   4. Malashenko, UKR 9.4   5. Siksniute, LTU 8.4   6. Pavel, ROM 8.4   7. Niedola, LAT 7.8   8. Iagupova, UKR 7.8   9. Solopova, LTU 7.8   10. Xargay Casad., ESP 7.6

Assists Per Game

Jovana POPOVIC   (173-G-90)   Avg: 5.2

1. Popovic, SRB 5.2   2. Iagupova, UKR 4.2   3. Ouvina, ESP 4.0   4. Klintsone, LAT 3.8   5. Saylar, TUR 3.6   6. Solopova, LTU 3.6   7. Priede, LAT 3.5   8. Bestagno, ITA 3.4   9. Tomialowicz, POL 3.3   10. Zubrytskaya, BLR 3.3

Steals Per Game

Sabine NIEDOLA   LAT   (184-F-91)   Avg: 3

1. Niedola, LAT 3.0   2. Solopova, LTU 2.4   3. Tchatchouang, FRA 2.4   4. Ouvina, ESP 2.4   5. Minte, FRA 2.0   6. Zubrytskaya, BLR 2.0   7. Gultekin, SWE 2.0   8. Rexroth, GER 2.0   9. Xargay Casad., ESP 2.0   10. Cebulska, POL 1.8

Blocks Per Game

Giedre PAUGAITE   (192-C-90)   Avg: 2.8

1. Paugaite, LTU 2.8   2. Malashenko, UKR 2.0   3. Alminaite, LTU 2.0   4. Tchatchouang, FRA 1.4   5. Filonchyk, BLR 1.4   6. Manta, ROM 1.4   7. Petrushina, RUS 1.4   8. Vitola, LAT 1.3   9. Rashchenia, BLR 1.2   10. Ivashchanka, BLR 1.2

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FRANCE - Women

Sandrine Gruda finds niche with Connecticut Sun - by Eurobasket News
Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) was asked if she was told by her Connecticut Sun coaches to drive to the basket more this season.

'No, I just felt like it,' Gruda said. 'I don't really think so much.'

Gruda laughed and added, 'I just (take the ball to the basket). If I have the shot, I just shoot.'

On a team filled with cutups such as Renee Montgomery and DeMya Walker, Gruda's humor fits right in. The third-year forward from Martinique has comfortably settled in with old and new teammates alike and is one of Connecticut's leading scorers. She'll be needed today when the Sun play host to the New York Liberty at Mohegan Sun Arena (8 p.m., ESPN2).

Gruda is blessed with rare athletic ability. She's 6-foot-4 and 185 pounds, so she can handle herself inside. She can also shoot from outside and has the foot speed to blow past most defenders on her way to the basket.

It's easy to forget, however, that Gruda is still so young. She turned 23 on June 25 and is still learning and maturing on the court.

'Sure, we've tried to get her to (take players off the dribble) against big players, post players, because she's quicker than most of the post players,' Connecticut coach Mike Thibault said. 'When she's played the three (small forward) a little bit, we've tried to post her up against smaller players. She has such a quick first step and a long first step that if she takes care of the basketball, she can be by people in a heartbeat because she's just so fast.'

Gruda twice used her athleticism and skill to convert three-point plays in Saturday's 96-80 win over the Atlanta Dream. Late in the second quarter, she made a shot from behind the free throw line and drew contact from Atlanta Dream center Erika de Souza.

Late in the third quarter, the Sun were leading 52-51 when Gruda blew past Allison Bales for a layup and free throw.

The game was tied at 49 with 5:17 remaining in the third quarter when Connecticut went on a 30-15 run. Gruda had nine of those points and finished with 14 to go with four rebounds.

A big reason why Gruda is so willing to go to the rim is because she's improved her ball-handling and free throw shooting. She shot 55.2 percent from the line her first two seasons. This year, she's shooting 76 percent, including 25 of 26 in the last three games.

'I practice,' Gruda said. 'I had to practice on it because they foul me a lot, and I think I can help the team by being more aggressive and dangerous.

Said Thibault: 'She's mainly simplified her shooting form. She had a lot of extra motion in her shot last year and she's really made it a simple motion and she's confident in it.'

Gruda is second on the team in scoring (13.4 points per game) and rebounding (4.9 per game) and has gradually developed a rapport with Connecticut's six new players, including guard Renee Montogmery.

'Sister 'Drine, it's actually kind of easy,' Montgomery said of playing with the Sun's third-year veteran. 'She's very long, so passing it to her is easier. And she goes and gets all of the passes you throw to her. She also can shoot, so you can pass it to her at any spot. For instance, if you know a post player is not comfortable shooting, you have to keep dribbling until they get to the blocks.

'With her, you can pass it to her on the elbow, the blocks. So it's easy to play with her because all over the court she's effective.'

The Eastern Conference has never been tougher five of its six teams are .500 or better and Connecticut (12-8) needs to win in order to keep pace. It's in fourth place but one game out of first.

Cappie Pondexter (21.1 points, 4.8 assists, 4.7 rebounds), Taj McWilliams-Franklin (10.5 points, 5.3 rebounds) and Janel McCarville (9.4 points, 6.2 rebounds) lead New York (9-10).

Courtesy of www.theday.com

France U18 finishes second in Spain - by Eurobasket News
France U18 finishes second in Spain at the International Tournament in Lanzarote that hosted Spain U18, Russia U18, France U18 and Poland U18. In Day 1 France overcame Russia 80:69. In Day 2 France reached the second victory beating Poland 68:58. Poland however opened the game with 14-10 to take the lead after 10 minutes. France bounced back with 19-11 in the second quarter and never looked behind after. They added 21-10 in the third frame, while Poland managed to win the last stanza 23-18. Kuras's 15 points were not enough in the losing effort. Zietara posted 11, Katarzyna Trzeciak (173-G-92) scored 9 and Bandyk brought 8 points. Agata Szczepanik (194-F/C-92) ended up with 7 points and Idziorek added 5. Spain rolled over Russia 68:54. In Day 3 Spain triumphed with 66:46 win over France.

U20 France beats U20 Ukraine, stretches the winning streak in Liepaja - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): UKRAINE - FRANCE 66-80

France continued its winning streak in Liepaja and stretched it to four. It was a Day Four at this event, the first one in Qualifying Round, and France jumped to 3-0 in newly formed Group E. Ukraine dropped to 0-3, but they still have a chance to reach the Quarterfinals. Diandra Tchatchouang (191-F-91) came up with 16 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Hhadydia Minte (185-F-91) (9 rebs) and Medelome Medenou (188-F-90) (6 rebs) had 13 and 12 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Olesia Malashenko (188-F-91, agency: LBM Management) shined with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91) and Alina Iagupova (179-G-92) (9 rebs) had 13 and 12 pts.
France took control on Ukraine from the early beginning. After opening ten minutes it already was 12-21 for Diandra Tchatchouang and her teammates. Ukraine improved in the second frame, but they needed a way more. They ended Q2 with 20-19 and France was 32-40 up at the HT. They jumped to plus 13 at the halfway of third period and Ukraine was in trouble. They came to minus seven in the last quarter, but France immediately replied and grabbed back the comfortable lead.
On Tuesday, France will play against Latvia. Ukraine will meet Holland.

Ukraine: Olesia Malashenko 22+9 boards, Olga Maznichenko 13, Alina Iagupova 12+9 boards
France: Diandra Tchatchouang 16+8 boards, Hhadydia Minte 13+9 boards, Medelome Medenou 12+6 boards

U17 France grabs the first win in Rodez - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): RUSSIA - FRANCE 53-56

After two straight defeats, France finally grabbed the first win in Rodez. Their rival was Russia and France escaped with tiny 53-56 victory. Now both teams have 1-2 record in Group B (same as Canada and Turkey). Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) shined for the winners with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Olivia Epoupa (163-G-94) secured a nice help adding 13 points and 7 boards, while Claire Stievenard (182-F/G-93) netted 9 pts. In Russia, Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C/F-93) collected 13 points and 10 rebounds. Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) contributed with 12 pts and 6 rebs.
France opened the game better making 10-13 lead in the first ten minutes. Second quarter was pretty leveled, but still it was France who ended it 14-15. Russia was not on high level, but somehow they were always close. Each of two teams scored 18 points in third frame, meaning that France entered to last ten minutes with plus four. Russia didnt give up and they managed to make 53-52 turn with 2:28 remaining in the game. However, the visitors then had defensive lapses and committed questionable fouls which allowed France to edge back in front and hold out until the final buzzer.
On Tuesday, France will meet Japan. Russia will play against Canada.

Russia: Ksenia Tikhonenko 13+10 boards, Galina Kiseleva 12+6 boards
France: Christelle Diallo 14+6 boards, Olivia Epoupa 13+7 boards, Claire Stievenard 9

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GERMANY - Women

EC U20: Germany blasts Sweden for the first win in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): SWEDEN - GERMANY 57-84

Easy one for Germany, who started the Classification Round for 13th to 16th place with 1-0. On the other side, Sweden dropped to 0-1 but they still have a chance to survive in Division A. These two teams are together with Romania and Bulgaria placed to Group G. Anna-lisa Rexroth (174-G-90) paced the Germans to victory with 23 points. Stephanie Wagner (181-F-90) followed with 18 points and 6 boards, while Wiebke Bruns (176-F-90) (6 rebs), Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) (5 rebs) and Pia Mankertz (170-G-90) added 9 points each. In Sweden, Danielle Hamilton Carter (187-F-90, college: Fayetteville) replied with 18 points and 5 boards. Frida Fogdemark (185-F-91) had double-double of 12 points and 11 rebs.
Germany opened the game with 8-13 and later 12-20 lead. They ended the first frame with plus six and continued in the same rhythm in Q2. Anna-lisa Rexroth and her teammates made the first double-digit lead in 15th minute and never looked back after that. At the half time, Germany was 34-45 up. They made 10-18 in Q3 and the game winner was already known. Anyway, Germany shined in the last ten minutes as well finishing this game with huge 57-84.
On Tuesday, Germany will play against Bulgaria. Sweden will meet Romania.

Sweden: Danielle Hamilton Carter 18+5 boards, Frida Fogdemark 12+11 boards
Germany: Anna-lisa Rexroth 23, Stephanie Wagner 18+6 boards, Wiebke Bruns 9+6 boards, Svenja Brunckhorst 9+5 boards, Pia Mankertz 9

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GUATEMALA - Women

CAC Games: Mexico cruises past Guatemala in Mayaguez - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Day Two: Guatemala - Mexico 65-85

Mexico shined in their first appearances in Mayaguez. They outgunned Guatemala for 1-0 record in Group B, which also includes Jamaica and Dominican Republic. Guatemala dropped to 0-2 as they faced with defeat in Day One as well. Brisa Silva (168-G-84, college: Oklahoma St.) exploded in this victory. She spent 35 minutes on the court and drained 31 points. Silva had 5 triples in this game. Alexis Castro (184-G/F-86, agency: 22ft, college: Vermont) followed her with 12 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists, while Monica Garcia (172-G-86) added 11 points. Alma Lopez (165-G-86) replied with 21 points in defeat. Cynthia Rivera (177-F-82) and Maria Fleischmann (181-F/C-77) scored 12 points each.
Mexico took control on its rival from the beginning. Brisa Silva and her teammates grabbed 16-26 lead in Q1 and for rest of the first half jumped to plus 20. They slowed down after that and never had troubles to keep the safe distance. Third quarter ended 24-24 and the last one 13-13 for the final score of 65-85.
On Tuesday, Mexico will meet Dominican Republic on Tuesday. Guatemala will have a day-off.

Guatemala: Alma Lopez 21, Cynthia Rivera 12, Maria Fleischmann 12
Mexico: Brisa Silva 31, Alexis Castro 12+11 boards+6 as, Monica Garcia 11

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HOLLAND - Women

U20 Holland blows U20 Russia out of the court - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): HOLLAND - RUSSIA 74-53

Holland cruised past Russia in Liepaja for the first win in Qualifying Round. It means that Holland currently shares the fourth place in Group E with Poland, who also has 1-2 record. Russia dropped to 2-1 and joined Latvia on position No.2. Maaike Klein (177-G-90) shined in victory with 25 points. Demelza Ten Caat (177-G-90) also was great in this game adding 19 points. They were the only two players with double-digits in scoring for Holland. In Russia, Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) delivered 12 pts. Veronika Dorosheva (188-F-91) had one point less than her, plus 5 rebounds.
Except of third quarter, which belonged to Russia, Holland dominated in all other periods. Maaike Klein and her teammates made 17-14 lead in the first ten minutes and they were even better in the next quarter. Holland intensified defense limiting Russia to just 9 pts in Q2, while they drained 16 on the other side for nice 33-23 lead at the half time. Holland jumped to 15-point lead at the midway of third quarter, but Russia replied with 7-13 run cutting the margin to 9 points before the last ten minutes. Than, Holland smashed their rival with 23-11 for the final 74-53 blowout.
On Tuesday, Holland will meet Ukraine. Russia will take on Poland.

Holland: Maaike Klein 25, Demelza Ten Caat 19
Russia: Tatiana Petrushina 12, Veronika Dorosheva 11+5 boards

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HUNGARY - Women

Hungary U18 comes back from Postojni - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U18 comes back from Pivki and Postojni. In Day 1 Hungary edged Israel 66:49 for the initial victory. Hungary started with 17-12 in the opening quarter, but Israel responded with 15-14 in the second frame. Hungary needed 16-8 in the third quarter to take the bigger lead and won the game after 19-14 in the last quarter. Dorina Zele (185-92) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Mansare netted 12. Adamecz ended up with 9 points, while Czirjak and Alma Nemeth (184-F-92) posted 6 each.
Croatia stun Hungary 79:57 in Day 2 as the winners sttarted well in the game. Croatia opened the first quarter with 29-10, but then Hungary won the second frame 15-14. In the second half the teams again exchanged the victories in the periods that brought the total success fro Croatia. For Hungary Brigitta Barta (182-F-93) scored 12 points and Dorina Zele netted 11. Szidonia Katona (182-F-93) and Szabo B. delivered 8 points each, while Szabo F. posted 5.
In Day 3 Slovenia outscored Hungary 65:57 in Postojna. The hosts opened the game with 19-10 and took another victory in the second quarter with 20-13. Hungary bounced back with 25-15 in the third frame but the hosts won the tournament due to 11-9 in the last quarter. Tjasa Gortnar (185-F-92) paced all the winners with 17 points and Baric added 16. Bojana Adamovic (176-G-92) scored 10, while Jakovina nailed 9.

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ISRAEL - Women

Israel U18 participated at the tournament of four - by Eurobasket News
Israel U18 participated at the tournament of four in Slovenia. In Day 1 Hungary edged Israel 66:49 for the initial victory. Hungary started with 17-12 in the opening quarter, but Israel responded with 15-14 in the second frame. Hungary needed 16-8 in the third quarter to take the bigger lead and won the game after 19-14 in the last quarter. Zele top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Mansare netted 12. Adamecz ended up with 9 points, while Noemi Czirjak (172-G-93) and Nemeth posted 6 each.
In Game 2 Slovenia rolled over Israel 81:43. It was an easy start as the hosts opened the game with 27-10. Moreover they produced 15-10 in the second frame and exploded with 24-7 in the third quarter. Israel managed to win the last quarter 16-15 to reduce a bit the gap in the game. Tina Jakovina (182-G-92) paced all the winners with 19 points and Tjasa Gortnar (185-F-92) followed her with 17. Nika Baric (169-G-92) netted 11 and Adamovic added 9.
Israel continues their preparation for the U18 European championship that will take place in Timisoara, Romania from July 29 through August 8 in Division B. The best two teams of each pool will advance into the Qualifying Round. The best two teams of the tournament will get promotion to Division A. Israel will play in Group D with Montenegro, Belarus, and Netherlands.

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ITALY - Women

U20 Turkey crushes U20 Italy in the last quarter - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): ITALY - TURKEY 58-67

Turkey continues with nice performance in Liepaja. This time they outplayed Italy 58-67 for perfect 3-0 in Group F. Turkey currently shares the first place with Spain and both teams already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Italy has 0-3, but its not too late for them to wake up. Yasemen Saylar (173-G-90) stepped up for Turkey with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Safiye Karaman (180-F-91) netted 14 points in this meeting, while Esra Ural (197-C-91) added 9 points and 10 boards. In Italy, Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) collected 13 points and 9 rebounds. Laura Spreafico (178-G-91) and Oriana Milazzo (170-G-91) had 10 points and 5 rebounds each in this defeat.
Italy was a better team at the beginning as they made 11-18 lead after six minutes. Turkish players woke after that and for rest of the time in Q1 replied with 6-0 run. Than the second frame was almost leveled and actually this one belonged to Italy 20-19. It means that teams went to overtime with 37-37 tie. Turkey made 13-15 in Q3 and there was ten minutes to go. Yasemen Saylar and her teammates opened the last period with crucial 2-9 lead and never looked back after that.
Turkey will meet Serbia on Tuesday. Italy will take on Belarus and it will be maybe the most important game for both teams.

Italy: Federica Tognalini 13+9 boards, Laura Spreafico 10+5 boards, Oriana Milazzo 10+5 boards
Turkey: Yasemen Saylar 21+5 boards+5 as, Safiye Karaman 14, Esra Ural 9+10 boards

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JAMAICA - Women

CAC Games: Dominican Republic too strong for Jamaica 72-62 - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Day Two: Dominican Republic - Jamaica 72-62

Dominican Republic had a reason for joy in their first appearance in Mayaguez. They grabbed 72-62 win against Jamaica for 1-0 in Group B. At the same time, it was the second game for Jamaica at this event and they slipped to 1-1. Carmen Guzman (175-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) was unstoppable in offense. She played almost the entire match netting 29 points. Sugeiry Monsac (186-F/C-81) secured a nice help for Dominican Republic with 14 points and 7 boards, while Charlenny Frias (177-G-84) added 10 points and 5 rebs. In defeat, Simone Edwards (194-C-73, college: Iowa) shined with 19 points and 15 rebs. Vanessa Gidden (193-C/F-85, college: Hofstra) is another player with double-double in defeat (19 pts, 10 rebs), while Nicole Louden (172-G-83, college: Auburn) contributed with 17 points and 8 assists.
Dominican Republic better from the beginning. They had Carmen Guzman on fire which paced er team to 21-15 lead in Q1. They were good in the next ten minutes as well, taking 37-28 at the half time. Jamaica slightly improved after the breather (17-18), but they needed a way more. Jamaica limited Dominican Republic 7 points in the last period, but on the other side they scoredjust 12 and faced with 72-62 defeat.
On Tuesday, Dominican Republic will play against Mexico. Jamaica has a day-off.

Dominican Republic: Carmen Guzman 29, Sugeiry Monsac 14+7 boards, Charlenny Frias 10+5 as
Jamaica: Simone Edwards 19+15 boards, Vanessa Gidden 19+10 boards, Nicole Louden 17+8 as

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JAPAN - Women

U17 Japan celebrates the second win in Rodez - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): JAPAN - TURKEY 80-60

Japan blasted Turkey 80-60 for the second win in Rodez. With this one, Japan jumped to second place in Group A (behind the USA). Turkey on the other hand joined four other teams with 1-2 record. Yuki Miyazawa (181-F-93) came up with 20 points and 9 rebounds for Japan. She reached valuation 23 and grabbed the MVP title for this game. Moeko Nagaoka (180-F-93) also had very important role adding 17 points and 12 rebounds. Rina Hill (168-G-93) helped with 10 pts. In defeat, Olcay Cakir (180-G-93) replied with 16 pts. Ozge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) had double-double of 15 points and 14 rebounds.
Japan won every single quarter in this game. After ten minutes it was 24-21 and for rest of the time in the first half Japan jumped to 46-36. Same picture on the court was seen after the breather. Japan dominated at the both sides finishing Q3 with 19-11. Question about the winner was resolved and Japan closed the game out with 15-13 in the last frame.
On Tuesday, Japan will meet France. Turkey will take on powerful USA.

Japan: Yuki Miyazawa 20+9 boards, Moeko Nagaoka 17+12 boards, Rina Hill 10
Turkey: Olcay Cakir 16, Ozge Kavurmacioglu 15+14 boards

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LITHUANIA - Women

U20 EC in Liepaja: Lithuania grabs 63-57 win against Serbia - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): LITHUANIA - SERBIA 63-57

Valuable win for Lithuania, who jumped to 2-1 in Group F. They are currently on third place in this pool, while Serbia dropped to position No.4 with 1-2 record. Egle Siksniute (196-F/C-91) was the leading scorer in Lithuania with 18 points and she grabbed 7 rebounds beside that. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) had double-double of 17 points and 12 boards, while Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) added 14 points and 17 rebs in this game. Each of them (Solopova, Paugaite) reached valuation 20. In Serbia, Nevena Jovanovic (179-G-90) nailed 15 points. Tijana Ajdukovic (197-C-91) (5 rebs) and Jovana Popovic (173-G-90) netted 10 points apiece.
Lithuania opened the game with quick 6-2 run and they later reached 14-8 lead. Serbia replied with 2-5 mini run for rest of the way in Q1, but still faced with minus three at the end of it. Nevena Jovanovic and her teammates took control on Lithuania in the second frame and managed to take 33-35 lead until the half time. They somehow stopped after the breather and Lithuania was the team who dominated at that time. Trio Egle Siksniute, Marina Solopova and Giedre Paugaite was great offensively pacing their squad to 54-45 lead before the last ten minutes. Serbia ended last quarter with 9-12, but that was not enough.
On Tuesday, Lithuania will play against Spain. Serbia will meet Turkey in very important game for both teams.

Lithuania: Egle Siksniute 18+7 boards, Marina Solopova 17+12 boards, Giedre Paugaite 14+17 boards
Serbia: Nevena Jovanovic 15, Tijana Ajdukovic 10+5 boards, Jovana Popovic 10

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MALI - Women

U17 China shines once again in Toulouse - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): CHINA - MALI 103-54

Third appearance and third win for China in Toulouse. It means that China stays on top of Group B, while Belgium and Argentina follow them with 2-1 record. Mali faced with third straight loss and they are dead last in this pool. Li Meng (185-G-95) shined once again for China collecting 18 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. He had impressive valuation 30. Yang LiWei (175-G-95) had 16 points, while Yang Xi (184-F-94) added one less. In Mali, Fatoumata Sanou (185-C-93) was good with 15 points. Sadio Konate (180-F/C-94) scored 10.
China dominated during the entire game. They started with impressive 31-13 in the first quarter and continued with 26-13 for the next ten minutes. It means that China was huge 57-26 up at the half time and already resolved question about the winner. Anyway, they didnt stop after that making 20-11 in Q3. Last ten minutes were just the formality, but Li Meng and her teammates won that quarter was well (26-17) for the final 103-54 victory.
China will play against Belgium on Tuesday. Mali will meet Australia.

China: Li Meng 18+7 boards+8 as, Yang LiWei 16, Yang Xi 15
Mali: Fatoumata Sanou 15, Sadio Konate 10

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MEXICO - Women

CAC Games: Mexico cruises past Guatemala in Mayaguez - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Day Two: Guatemala - Mexico 65-85

Mexico shined in their first appearances in Mayaguez. They outgunned Guatemala for 1-0 record in Group B, which also includes Jamaica and Dominican Republic. Guatemala dropped to 0-2 as they faced with defeat in Day One as well. Brisa Silva (168-G-84, college: Oklahoma St.) exploded in this victory. She spent 35 minutes on the court and drained 31 points. Silva had 5 triples in this game. Alexis Castro (184-G/F-86, agency: 22ft, college: Vermont) followed her with 12 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists, while Monica Garcia (172-G-86) added 11 points. Alma Lopez (165-G-86) replied with 21 points in defeat. Cynthia Rivera (177-F-82) and Maria Fleischmann (181-F/C-77) scored 12 points each.
Mexico took control on its rival from the beginning. Brisa Silva and her teammates grabbed 16-26 lead in Q1 and for rest of the first half jumped to plus 20. They slowed down after that and never had troubles to keep the safe distance. Third quarter ended 24-24 and the last one 13-13 for the final score of 65-85.
On Tuesday, Mexico will meet Dominican Republic on Tuesday. Guatemala will have a day-off.

Guatemala: Alma Lopez 21, Cynthia Rivera 12, Maria Fleischmann 12
Mexico: Brisa Silva 31, Alexis Castro 12+11 boards+6 as, Monica Garcia 11

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NCAA1 - Women

U17 USA beats U17 Canada to stay perfect in Rodez - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): USA - CANADA 114-57

USA destroyed Canada in North American derby for perfect 3-0 in Group A. It means that USA is currently the leading team of this pool. On the other side, Canada faced with the second loss in Rodez, but still has a chance to reach the Quarterfinals. Kaleena Lewis (6'0''-F-93) stepped up for USA with 21 points. She was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 25. Jewell Loyd (5'9''-G-93) scored 19 points (5 rebs), Bria Smith (5'10''-G-93) had 13, while Morgan Tuck (6'2''-F-94) (7 rebs) and Elizabeth Williams (6'3''-C-93) added 12 points each in this victory. In the loosing squad, Nirra Fields (5'8''-G-93) collected 17 points and 5 boards. Alexandria Kiss-Rusk (6'4''-C-93) has 11 pts and also 5 rebs.
USA won every single quarter in this game. They started with 28-20 in the first ten minutes and continued with 25-15 in the second frame. Nothing has changed after the breather as Canada was unable to resist against the powerful USA team. Kaleena Lewis and her teammates ended third quarter with 25-14 and already were huge 29 points up. They totally destroyed Canada in the last ten minutes (36-8) for the final 114-57 blowout.
On Tuesday, USA will meet Turkey. Canada will play very important game against Russia.

USA: Kaleena Lewis 21, Jewell Loyd 19+5 boards, Bria Smith 13, Morgan Tuck 12+7 boards, Elizabeth Williams 12
Canada: Nirra Fields 17+5 boards, Alexandria Kiss-Rusk 11+5 boards

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POLAND - Women

Poland U18 clinched third place - by Eurobasket News
Poland U18 clinched third place in Lanzarote that hosted Spain U18, Russia U18, France U18 and Poland U18.
Spain overcame Poland 64:47 in the opener. The Spanish outfit started with 21-16 in the opening quarter and added 17-9 in the second frame. Moreover the team produced 13 points in the third and the last periods to seal the victory in the opener. For Poland Bandyk and Paulina Kuras (170-G-92) scored 7 points, while Katarzyna Trzeciak (173-G-92) as well as Agata Szczepanik (194-F/C-92) posted 6 each. Idziorek and Aldona Morawiec (183-F-92) nailed 5 points apiece.
France reached the second victory beating Poland 68:58. Poland however opened the game with 14-10 to take the lead after 10 minutes. France bounced back with 19-11 in the second quarter and never looked behind after. They added 21-10 oin the third frame, while Poland managed to win the last stanza 23-18. Paulina Kuras's 15 points were not enough in the losing effort. Magdalena Zietara (177-G/F-92) posted 11, Katarzyna Trzeciak scored 9 and Bandyk brought 8 points. Agata Szczepanik ended up with 7 points and Idziorek added 5.
Poland won over Russia 58:51 to finish third. Russia started with 16-15, but Poland erupted with 19-7 in the second period. Russia won the third period 20-14, while Poland needed 10-8 in the last frame to seal the victory. Agata Szczepanik top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Magdalena Zietara netted 9. Paulina Kuras delivered 8 and Jasnowska followed them with 7.

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PUERTO RICO - Women

Puerto Rico beats ISV, jumps to 2-0 at CAC Games in Mayaguez - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Day Two: Puerto Rico - U.S. Virgins Islands 82-55

Another great performance for Puerto Rico at CAC Games. After 118-24 victory against Saint Vincent in Day One, Puerto Rico blasted ISV 82-55 for 2-0 record in Group A. On the other side, ISV dropped to second place in this pool with 1-1. Sandra Garcia (189-F-90) top-scored for the winners with 16 points. Pamela Rosado (161-G-86) had one point less than her, while Michelle Pacheco (175-G/F-88) added 14 points and 6 assists. Jazmine Sepulveda (177-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: S.Florida) helped the hosts with double-double of 12 points and 10 boards. In the loosing squad, Yanique Javois (176-G-85, college: Saint Louis) shined with 20 points. Natalie Day (183-G/F-90) had 16 pts and 8 boards.
Puerto Rico opened the game in style making 24-9 lead in the first ten minutes. They continued in the same rhythm after that, so after twenty minutes of play the home side was huge 52-28 up. The game winner was already known and second half was just the formality. Third quarter ended with 12-12 tie, while Puerto Rico smashed ISV in the last one with 14-2. At the end totally deserved 82-55 for PUR, who once again proved they will be the main contender for the CAC title.
On Tuesday, Puerto Rico will meet Trinidad and Tobago. ISV will take on Saint Vincent.

Puerto Rico: Sandra Garcia 16, Pamela Rosado 15, Michelle Pacheco 14+6 as, Jazmine Sepulveda 12+10 boards
U.S. Virgins Islands: Yanique Javois 20, Natalie Day 16+8 boards

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ROMANIA - Women

ICIM Arad preparing for new season - by Eurobasket
BC ICIM Arad is close to complete their roster for upcoming 10-11 season. Monika Boriga (176-G/F-74) and Gabriela Toma (192-C-74) are newcomers from Municipal MCM Targoviste.
They also re-signed power forward Ana Bianca Urban (184-F/C-76), guard Adela Mercea (170-G-85) and American playmaker Cherrisse Graham (171-G-82).

Romanian Cup 2010-11 draw - by Szilveszter Nagy
Here are the results of the Romanian Cup draw

1. round:
CSU Alba Iulia vs. CS Sportul Studentesc Omnilogic Bucuresti
CS Rapid Bucuresti vs. BC Galactica Brasov
CS Universitatea Cluj-Napoca vs. BC ICIM Arad
CSS LMK BC Sepsi Sfantu Gheorghe vs. BC Danzio CSS Bega Timisoara
Municipal MCM Targoviste vs. CS Politehnica National Iasi
CS Olimpia Bucuresti vs. CST CSS Alexandria
CSM Satu Mare vs. CSM U Oradea
SCM CSS Craiova is automatically qualified for the 2. round

The First games will be played at 21st September 2010 and the return games will be played at 25th September 2010.

U20 EC: Romania outguns Bulgaria in Liepaja - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): BULGARIA - ROMANIA 51-80

Romania made the first step forward to survival in Division A. They destroyed Bulgaria for 1-0 record in Group G. It was the first appearance for both teams at this stage. Gabriela Munteanu (177-F-88) had 24 pts and 6 rebs. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) also shined for the winners with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) followed with 14 pts and 9 rebs. In Bulgaria, Aleksandra Kancheva (182-F-90) delivered 13 pts and was the only one with double-digits in scoring.
Romania blasted Bulgaria in the first and last quarter. Gabriela Munteanu and her teammates created big 12-25 lead in the first ten minutes. Their rival slightly improved in the second frame, but still it was Romania who increased its lead to 24-39. Third quarter belonged to Bulgaria (13-10), but it was clear they will not be able to treat in this game. Romania smashed them 14-31 in the last ten minutes for the final 51-80 victory.
On Tuesday, Romania will meet Sweden. Bulgaria will take on Germany and will try to grab the first win at this event.

Bulgaria: Aleksandra Kancheva 13
Romania: Gabriela Munteanu 24+6 boards, Cristina Bigica 22+9 boards, Elisabeth Pavel 14+9 boards

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RUSSIA - Women

U17 France grabs the first win in Rodez - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): RUSSIA - FRANCE 53-56

After two straight defeats, France finally grabbed the first win in Rodez. Their rival was Russia and France escaped with tiny 53-56 victory. Now both teams have 1-2 record in Group B (same as Canada and Turkey). Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) shined for the winners with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Olivia Epoupa (163-G-94) secured a nice help adding 13 points and 7 boards, while Claire Stievenard (182-F/G-93) netted 9 pts. In Russia, Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C/F-93) collected 13 points and 10 rebounds. Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) contributed with 12 pts and 6 rebs.
France opened the game better making 10-13 lead in the first ten minutes. Second quarter was pretty leveled, but still it was France who ended it 14-15. Russia was not on high level, but somehow they were always close. Each of two teams scored 18 points in third frame, meaning that France entered to last ten minutes with plus four. Russia didnt give up and they managed to make 53-52 turn with 2:28 remaining in the game. However, the visitors then had defensive lapses and committed questionable fouls which allowed France to edge back in front and hold out until the final buzzer.
On Tuesday, France will meet Japan. Russia will play against Canada.

Russia: Ksenia Tikhonenko 13+10 boards, Galina Kiseleva 12+6 boards
France: Christelle Diallo 14+6 boards, Olivia Epoupa 13+7 boards, Claire Stievenard 9

Russia U18 lost all three in Lanzarote - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18 lost all three in Lanzarote at the International Tournament with 4 teams participating. Lanzarote hosted Spain U18, Russia U18, France U18 and Poland U18.
In Day 1 France overcame Russia 80:69, while later Spain rolled over Russia 68:54. In Day 3 Poland won over Russia 58:51 to finish third. Russia started with 16-15, but Poland erupted with 19-7 in the second period. Russia won the third period 20-14, while Poland needed 10-8 in the last frame to seal the victory. Agata Szczepanik (194-F/C-92) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Magdalena Zietara (177-G/F-92) netted 9. Kuras delivered 8 and Jasnowska followed them with 7.

U20 Holland blows U20 Russia out of the court - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): HOLLAND - RUSSIA 74-53

Holland cruised past Russia in Liepaja for the first win in Qualifying Round. It means that Holland currently shares the fourth place in Group E with Poland, who also has 1-2 record. Russia dropped to 2-1 and joined Latvia on position No.2. Maaike Klein (177-G-90) shined in victory with 25 points. Demelza Ten Caat (177-G-90) also was great in this game adding 19 points. They were the only two players with double-digits in scoring for Holland. In Russia, Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) delivered 12 pts. Veronika Dorosheva (188-F-91) had one point less than her, plus 5 rebounds.
Except of third quarter, which belonged to Russia, Holland dominated in all other periods. Maaike Klein and her teammates made 17-14 lead in the first ten minutes and they were even better in the next quarter. Holland intensified defense limiting Russia to just 9 pts in Q2, while they drained 16 on the other side for nice 33-23 lead at the half time. Holland jumped to 15-point lead at the midway of third quarter, but Russia replied with 7-13 run cutting the margin to 9 points before the last ten minutes. Than, Holland smashed their rival with 23-11 for the final 74-53 blowout.
On Tuesday, Holland will meet Ukraine. Russia will take on Poland.

Holland: Maaike Klein 25, Demelza Ten Caat 19
Russia: Tatiana Petrushina 12, Veronika Dorosheva 11+5 boards

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SERBIA - Women

U20 EC in Liepaja: Lithuania grabs 63-57 win against Serbia - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): LITHUANIA - SERBIA 63-57

Valuable win for Lithuania, who jumped to 2-1 in Group F. They are currently on third place in this pool, while Serbia dropped to position No.4 with 1-2 record. Egle Siksniute (196-F/C-91) was the leading scorer in Lithuania with 18 points and she grabbed 7 rebounds beside that. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) had double-double of 17 points and 12 boards, while Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) added 14 points and 17 rebs in this game. Each of them (Solopova, Paugaite) reached valuation 20. In Serbia, Nevena Jovanovic (179-G-90) nailed 15 points. Tijana Ajdukovic (197-C-91) (5 rebs) and Jovana Popovic (173-G-90) netted 10 points apiece.
Lithuania opened the game with quick 6-2 run and they later reached 14-8 lead. Serbia replied with 2-5 mini run for rest of the way in Q1, but still faced with minus three at the end of it. Nevena Jovanovic and her teammates took control on Lithuania in the second frame and managed to take 33-35 lead until the half time. They somehow stopped after the breather and Lithuania was the team who dominated at that time. Trio Egle Siksniute, Marina Solopova and Giedre Paugaite was great offensively pacing their squad to 54-45 lead before the last ten minutes. Serbia ended last quarter with 9-12, but that was not enough.
On Tuesday, Lithuania will play against Spain. Serbia will meet Turkey in very important game for both teams.

Lithuania: Egle Siksniute 18+7 boards, Marina Solopova 17+12 boards, Giedre Paugaite 14+17 boards
Serbia: Nevena Jovanovic 15, Tijana Ajdukovic 10+5 boards, Jovana Popovic 10

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SLOVENIA - Women

Slovenia captures the home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U18 became the winner of the home tournament in Pivki and Postojni. In Day 1 the hosts won over Croatia U18 68:64. The latter opened the game with 18-14 and added 16-13 in the second period. Slovenia needed 25-11 in the third frame to win the game. Baroc exploded with 32 points for the winners and Tjasa Gortnar (185-F-92) nailed 16. Abramovic posted 9, while Tina Jakovina (182-G-92) delivered 6.
In Game 2 Slovenia rolled over Israel 81:43. It was an easy start as the hosts opened the game with 27-10. Moreover they produced 15-10 in the second frame and exploded with 24-7 in the third quarter. Isreal managed to win the last quarter 16-15 to reduce a bit the gap in the game. Tina Jakovina paced all the winners with 19 points and Tjasa Gortnar followed her with 17. Nika Baric (169-G-92) netted 11 and Adamovic added 9.
In Day 3 Slovenia outscored Hungary 65:57 in Postojna. The hosts opened the game with 19-10 and took another victory in the second quarter with 20-13. Hungary bounced back with 25-15 in the third frame but the hosts won the tournament due to 11-9 in the last quarter. Tjasa Gortnar paced all the winners with 17 points and Baroc added 16. Adamovic scored 10, while Tina Jakovina nailed 9.

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SPAIN - Women

Spain U18 triumphs at home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 triumphs at home tournament as they won all the games in it. Lanzarote hosted Spain U18, Russia U18, France U18 and Poland U18.

In Day 1 Spain overcame Poland 64:47. The Spanish outfit started with 21-16 in the opening quarter and added 17-9 in the second frame. Moreover the team produced 13 points in the third and the last periods to seal the victory in the opener. For Poland Bandyk and Paulina Kuras (170-G-92) scored 7 points, while Katarzyna Trzeciak (173-G-92) as well as Agata Szczepanik (194-F/C-92) posted 6 each. Magdalena Idziorek (175-G-92) and Morawiec nailed 5 points apiece. France overcame Russia 80:69.
In Day 2 France reached the second victory beating Poland 68:58. Poland however opened the game with 14-10 to take the lead after 10 minutes. France bounced back with 19-11 in the second quarter and never looked behind after. They added 21-10 in the third frame, while Poland managed to win the last stanza 23-18. Paulina Kuras's 15 points were not enough in the losing effort. Magdalena Zietara (177-G/F-92) posted 11, Katarzyna Trzeciak scored 9 and Bandyk brought 8 points. Agata Szczepanik ended up with 7 points and Magdalena Idziorek added 5. Spain rolled over Russia 68:54.
In Day 3 Spain triumphed with 66:46 win over France. Poland won over Russia 58:51 to finish third. Russia started with 16-15, but Poland erupted with 19-7 in the second period. Russia won the third period 20-14, while Poland needed 10-8 in the last frame to seal the victory. Agata Szczepanik top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Magdalena Zietara netted 9. Paulina Kuras delivered 8 and Jasnowska followed them with 7.

U17 Belgium smashes U17 Spain in the last quarter for 54-55 thriller win - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): SPAIN - BELGIUM 54-55

Thriller win for Belgium, who shares the second place with Australia now (Group B, 2-1). At the same time, Spain dropped to 1-2 in the same pool. Julie Vanloo (172-G-93) stepped up for Belgium with 16 points. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) had two points less than her, but to go with 8 rebounds. Third scorer in victory was Lien Delmulle (179-F-93) with 8 points (7 rebs). In Spain, Andrea Vilaro (179-F-93) collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Silvia Marcelo (188-C-93) contributed with 10 points and 8 boards.
Belgium grabbed this one thanks to great last quarter. Before that, Spain made 19-11 lead in Q1. Everything started great for them as they looked pretty comfortable. Andrea Vilaro and her teammates finished the second period 17-15 for 10-point lead at the half time. Nothing has changed after the breather, as Spain won another quarter this time with 11-9. When it seemed that the game winner is already known, Belgium started to play. Julie Vanloo and Emma Meesseman were on fire and together with their teammates exploded in the last quarter ending it with impressive 7-20 for 54-55 victory.
Belgium will meet China on Tuesday. Spain will play against Argentina.

Spain: Andrea Vilaro 13+7 boards, Silvia Marcelo 10+8 boards
Belgium: Julie Vanloo 16, Emma Meesseman 14+8 boards, Lien Delmulle 8+7 boards

U20 Spain jumps to 3-0 in Qualifying Group F, secures the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): BELARUS - SPAIN 69-91

Spain blasted Belarus for perfect 3-0 in Qualifying Group F. With this victory Spain already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Belarus on the other hand slipped to 0-3, but still has a chance to advance. Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90) paced Spain with 18 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. She reached valuation 29 and was totally the best player of this game. Cristina Ouvina (173-G-90) (8 as) and Amaya Gastaminza Ganuza (188-F-91) 11 and 9 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Katsiaryna Kashlei (166-G-90) led the scorers with 18 points. Maryia Filonchyk (189-C-92) had 14 points and 11 boards.
Spain took control on their rivals from the beginning. After opening ten minutes Spain was already 17-24 up. They continued in the same rhythm in Q2 grabbing 32-46 lead at the half time. Belarus was in trouble, but they couldnt do anything about that. Spain shined in Q3 as well ending it with 14-24 for huge 46-70. The game was already over for Belarus and last ten minutes were just the formality.
Spain will play against Lithuania on Tuesday and will try to continue its winning streak. Belarus will meet Italy.

Belarus: Katsiaryna Kashlei 18, Maryia Filonchyk 14+11 boards
Spain: Marta Xargay Casademont 18+14 boards+5 as, Cristina Ouvina 11+8 as, Amaya Gastaminza Ganuza 9

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SWEDEN - Women

EC U20: Germany blasts Sweden for the first win in Group G - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): SWEDEN - GERMANY 57-84

Easy one for Germany, who started the Classification Round for 13th to 16th place with 1-0. On the other side, Sweden dropped to 0-1 but they still have a chance to survive in Division A. These two teams are together with Romania and Bulgaria placed to Group G. Anna-lisa Rexroth (174-G-90) paced the Germans to victory with 23 points. Stephanie Wagner (181-F-90) followed with 18 points and 6 boards, while Wiebke Bruns (176-F-90) (6 rebs), Svenja Brunckhorst (178-G-91) (5 rebs) and Pia Mankertz (170-G-90) added 9 points each. In Sweden, Danielle Hamilton Carter (187-F-90, college: Fayetteville) replied with 18 points and 5 boards. Frida Fogdemark (185-F-91) had double-double of 12 points and 11 rebs.
Germany opened the game with 8-13 and later 12-20 lead. They ended the first frame with plus six and continued in the same rhythm in Q2. Anna-lisa Rexroth and her teammates made the first double-digit lead in 15th minute and never looked back after that. At the half time, Germany was 34-45 up. They made 10-18 in Q3 and the game winner was already known. Anyway, Germany shined in the last ten minutes as well finishing this game with huge 57-84.
On Tuesday, Germany will play against Bulgaria. Sweden will meet Romania.

Sweden: Danielle Hamilton Carter 18+5 boards, Frida Fogdemark 12+11 boards
Germany: Anna-lisa Rexroth 23, Stephanie Wagner 18+6 boards, Wiebke Bruns 9+6 boards, Svenja Brunckhorst 9+5 boards, Pia Mankertz 9

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TURKEY - Women

U17 Japan celebrates the second win in Rodez - by Eurobasket News
U17 World Championship, Preliminary Round (Day Three): JAPAN - TURKEY 80-60

Japan blasted Turkey 80-60 for the second win in Rodez. With this one, Japan jumped to second place in Group A (behind the USA). Turkey on the other hand joined four other teams with 1-2 record. Yuki Miyazawa (181-F-93) came up with 20 points and 9 rebounds for Japan. She reached valuation 23 and grabbed the MVP title for this game. Moeko Nagaoka (180-F-93) also had very important role adding 17 points and 12 rebounds. Rina Hill (168-G-93) helped with 10 pts. In defeat, Olcay Cakir (180-G-93) replied with 16 pts. Ozge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) had double-double of 15 points and 14 rebounds.
Japan won every single quarter in this game. After ten minutes it was 24-21 and for rest of the time in the first half Japan jumped to 46-36. Same picture on the court was seen after the breather. Japan dominated at the both sides finishing Q3 with 19-11. Question about the winner was resolved and Japan closed the game out with 15-13 in the last frame.
On Tuesday, Japan will meet France. Turkey will take on powerful USA.

Japan: Yuki Miyazawa 20+9 boards, Moeko Nagaoka 17+12 boards, Rina Hill 10
Turkey: Olcay Cakir 16, Ozge Kavurmacioglu 15+14 boards

Botasspor Adana sign 200cm Brazilian Alessandra Santos - by Eurobasket
Botasspor Adana strengthened their roster with addition of 37-year old Brazilian center Alessandra Santos (200-C-73). Santos played most recently at CSS LMK BC Sepsi Sfantu Gheorghe (Romania), where was voted Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Center of the Year and selected to the All-Star Game. Santos is a very experienced player. She played also pro basketball in Brazil, France, Italy, Romania, Russia and Spain. She used to play for Brazilian national team. Her best season in pro basketball was three years ago when was voted Eurobasket.com All-Europe Honorable Mention 2007.
By Eurobasket Data Center

Durdane Gumusay moves to Galatasaray Istanbul - by Eurobasket
Galatasaray Istanbul strengthened their roster with addition of 21-year international forward Durdane Gumusay (180-F-89). Gumusay played most recently at Botasspor Adana (TBBL) helping them to make it to the Semifinals. While playing EuroCup for Botas last season her stats were: 8 games: 13.1ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.0rpg and 1.4apg. Her stats in TBBL were 7.3ppg and 3.0rpg. Gumusay played also pro basketball in Poland and Spain.
By Eurobasket Data Center

U20 Turkey crushes U20 Italy in the last quarter - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): ITALY - TURKEY 58-67

Turkey continues with nice performance in Liepaja. This time they outplayed Italy 58-67 for perfect 3-0 in Group F. Turkey currently shares the first place with Spain and both teams already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals. Italy has 0-3, but its not too late for them to wake up. Yasemen Saylar (173-G-90) stepped up for Turkey with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Safiye Karaman (180-F-91) netted 14 points in this meeting, while Esra Ural (197-C-91) added 9 points and 10 boards. In Italy, Federica Tognalini (183-F-91) collected 13 points and 9 rebounds. Laura Spreafico (178-G-91) and Oriana Milazzo (170-G-91) had 10 points and 5 rebounds each in this defeat.
Italy was a better team at the beginning as they made 11-18 lead after six minutes. Turkish players woke after that and for rest of the time in Q1 replied with 6-0 run. Than the second frame was almost leveled and actually this one belonged to Italy 20-19. It means that teams went to overtime with 37-37 tie. Turkey made 13-15 in Q3 and there was ten minutes to go. Yasemen Saylar and her teammates opened the last period with crucial 2-9 lead and never looked back after that.
Turkey will meet Serbia on Tuesday. Italy will take on Belarus and it will be maybe the most important game for both teams.

Italy: Federica Tognalini 13+9 boards, Laura Spreafico 10+5 boards, Oriana Milazzo 10+5 boards
Turkey: Yasemen Saylar 21+5 boards+5 as, Safiye Karaman 14, Esra Ural 9+10 boards

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women

Puerto Rico beats ISV, jumps to 2-0 at CAC Games in Mayaguez - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Day Two: Puerto Rico - U.S. Virgins Islands 82-55

Another great performance for Puerto Rico at CAC Games. After 118-24 victory against Saint Vincent in Day One, Puerto Rico blasted ISV 82-55 for 2-0 record in Group A. On the other side, ISV dropped to second place in this pool with 1-1. Sandra Garcia (189-F-90) top-scored for the winners with 16 points. Pamela Rosado (161-G-86) had one point less than her, while Michelle Pacheco (175-G/F-88) added 14 points and 6 assists. Jazmine Sepulveda (177-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: S.Florida) helped the hosts with double-double of 12 points and 10 boards. In the loosing squad, Yanique Javois (176-G-85, college: Saint Louis) shined with 20 points. Natalie Day (183-G/F-90) had 16 pts and 8 boards.
Puerto Rico opened the game in style making 24-9 lead in the first ten minutes. They continued in the same rhythm after that, so after twenty minutes of play the home side was huge 52-28 up. The game winner was already known and second half was just the formality. Third quarter ended with 12-12 tie, while Puerto Rico smashed ISV in the last one with 14-2. At the end totally deserved 82-55 for PUR, who once again proved they will be the main contender for the CAC title.
On Tuesday, Puerto Rico will meet Trinidad and Tobago. ISV will take on Saint Vincent.

Puerto Rico: Sandra Garcia 16, Pamela Rosado 15, Michelle Pacheco 14+6 as, Jazmine Sepulveda 12+10 boards
U.S. Virgins Islands: Yanique Javois 20, Natalie Day 16+8 boards

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UKRAINE - Women

U20 France beats U20 Ukraine, stretches the winning streak in Liepaja - by Eurobasket News
U20 EuroBasket, Qualifying Round (Day Four): UKRAINE - FRANCE 66-80

France continued its winning streak in Liepaja and stretched it to four. It was a Day Four at this event, the first one in Qualifying Round, and France jumped to 3-0 in newly formed Group E. Ukraine dropped to 0-3, but they still have a chance to reach the Quarterfinals. Diandra Tchatchouang (191-F-91) came up with 16 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Hhadydia Minte (185-F-91) (9 rebs) and Medelome Medenou (188-F-90) (6 rebs) had 13 and 12 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Olesia Malashenko (188-F-91, agency: LBM Management) shined with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91) and Alina Iagupova (179-G-92) (9 rebs) had 13 and 12 pts.
France took control on Ukraine from the early beginning. After opening ten minutes it already was 12-21 for Diandra Tchatchouang and her teammates. Ukraine improved in the second frame, but they needed a way more. They ended Q2 with 20-19 and France was 32-40 up at the HT. They jumped to plus 13 at the halfway of third period and Ukraine was in trouble. They came to minus seven in the last quarter, but France immediately replied and grabbed back the comfortable lead.
On Tuesday, France will play against Latvia. Ukraine will meet Holland.

Ukraine: Olesia Malashenko 22+9 boards, Olga Maznichenko 13, Alina Iagupova 12+9 boards
France: Diandra Tchatchouang 16+8 boards, Hhadydia Minte 13+9 boards, Medelome Medenou 12+6 boards

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VENEZUELA - Women

Venezuela's Senior NT start trainings for 2010 South American Championship - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuela's Senior NT started its training sessions in Barquisimeto, Lara, for the 2010 ABASU South American Championship, to be played in Santiago, Chile, from August 10th till Augusth 14th.

Once again, the team will be coached by Eduardo Gil with assistance of Alecia Landaeta and Oscar Silva. Its top player, Ofelia Villarroel (174-G-78), will report to the team on July 26th due to the fact that she recently got married and is enjoying a longer period of vacations after another successful season as player of Sdent Sierre Basket in Switzerland's Division 1 league, LNA.

Villarroel, a 32 year-old guard with a past in the WNBA's Houston Comets, is the main star of a team that also includes young but experienced players such as Cleider Blanco (C-90), Roselis Silva (G-91), Waleska Perez, Maholy Lovera, Yosimar Corrales (G-90), Endrina Bolivar (F-90), Maria Requena (G-90), Ayalexis Ilarraza (90), Keisy Ford, Iriana Velasquez, Maria Graterol, Marianna Duran, Hernairy Vargas, Mariangel Carrero and Thalia Garcia.

The team will practice twice a day at UCLA Dome and Napoleon Rodriguez Arena in Barquisimeto.

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WNBA - Women

Obama salutes 2009 WNBA champion Phoenix Mercury - by Eurobasket News
President Barack Obama is saluting the champions of women's professional basketball and calling them role models for the nation's girls.

Obama, an avid basketball player, welcomed the Phoenix Mercury to the White House after their second WNBA championship. He thanked the players for setting a good example, saying he lives with 'three tall, good-looking women who are quite competitive and push me around under the boards all the time.'

Some of the players towered over Obama in their heels as he shook their hands and posed for pictures in the State Dining Room.

The president said he wants his daughters, Malia and Sasha, to know there is nothing contradictory about women being beautiful, healthy, athletic and competitive.

The players later conducted a workshop as part of first lady Michele Obama's effort to make American children healthier.

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

Lauren Jackson and Tamika Catchings named WNBA Players of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Two of the WNBA's most tenured superstars shined the brightest this past week as the Seattle Storm's Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) and the Indiana Fever's Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) - the first and third selections of the 2001 Draft, respectively - were named the WNBA's Western and Eastern Conference Players of the Week presented by Kia Motors, respectively, for games played Monday, July 12 through Sunday, July 18.

This marks the first season that Kia Motors - an official WNBA marketing partner - has presented the WNBA Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week award.

By winning the Player of the Week presented by Kia Motors award for the fifth time in the first nine weeks of the 2010 season, Jackson extends her own WNBA record for such honors to 19 and ties her mark for the most Player of the Week awards in a single season. The Australian native also was selected as the Western Conference Player of the Month presented by Kia Motors for both May and June.

Jackson, who ranks second in the WNBA in scoring (22.1 ppg) and sixth in both rebounds (9.4 rpg) and blocks (1.53 bpg) thus far in 2010, led Seattle to a 2-0 mark during the week. The wins, including a triple-overtime thriller at Phoenix, extended the Storm's record to 18-2, equaling the second best start in WNBA history. In the process, the 10th-year WNBA star increased her string of consecutive games scoring 20-or-more points to six.

A two-time winner of the WNBA Most Valuable Player presented by Kia Motors (2003 and 2007), Jackson missed one game after suffering a concussion at Los Angeles July 3, but returned to action with 31 points, 18 rebounds and two blocks in a win over the defending WNBA champion Phoenix Mercury. She followed that up with 26 points, 7 rebounds, and four blocks in a win at Minnesota. For the week, Jackson led the league in rebounds (12.5 rpg) and blocks (3.0 bpg), and finished second in scoring (28.5 ppg) behind only Diana Taurasi.

With her first Player of the Week presented by Kia Motors award of the season, Catchings extends her career total for such honors to 13, third best in WNBA history behind only Jackson (19) and Lisa Leslie (15).

By leading the league in steals (3.0 spg), tying for fourth in rebounds (10.0 rpg), and ranking sixth in scoring (22.3 ppg) during the week, Catchings helped the Fever to a 2-1 mark and into first place in the Eastern Conference with a 13-7 record overall. Her double-doubles in wins over conference rivals Atlanta and New York give her four on the season and 64 in her WNBA career, placing her just one behind Taj McWilliams-Franklin for seventh place on the WNBA's all-time career list.

With her 22 points at New York, Catchings registered 20-or-more points for the fourth straight game and finished as Indiana's leading scorer for the sixth time in as many contests. It was in the game at New York that the University of Tennessee product scored 16 of her points in the final 10:48 of the game, including 9 of the team's 11 points in overtime as Indiana engineered a come-from-behind win.

Other candidates for WNBA Player of the Week presented by Kia Motors were Los Angeles' Tina Thompson, New York's Cappie Pondexter, Phoenix's Candice Dupree, San Antonio's Becky Hammon, Tulsa's Ivory Latta and Washington's Crystal Langhorne.

The WNBA Western and Eastern Conference Player of the Week presented by Kia Motors are part of a series of oncourt performance awards called The WNBA Performance Awards Presented by Kia Motors. The series, currently in its second season, includes four of the WNBA's most prestigious year-end honors: Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, and Sixth Woman of the Year, along with the WNBA Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Month. Kia Motors has been an official WNBA marketing partner since 2008.

For more information on this week's Players of the Week presented by Kia Motors winners, visit www.wnba.com/awards.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Silver Stars forward re-signs - by Eurobasket News
Forward Cristal Kelly (6'3''-F-86, college: W.Kentucky) has been signed to another seven-day contract, the Silver Stars announced. It is the third time in as many weeks that the team has signed the 6-foot-2 Kelly to such a deal. Kelly is averaging 1.3 points, including a season-high four in Sunday's 83-73 victory against Los Angeles. Last season in Europe she spent in Italy with ACP Livorno. She shined there with 10.3 ppg and 5.9 rpg for 27 games. In the past, Kelly was a member of Sacramento Monarchs and Spanish Olesa.

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WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U17 - Women

Preliminary Round: Day Four in Rodez and Toulouse - by Eurobasket News

Group A

France - Japan 70-67
France grabbed tiny 70-67 win against Japan joining them with 2-2 record. Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) came up with 14, while Esther Niamke (163-G-93) added 13 points in this win. Yuki Miyazawa (181-F-93) shined in defeat with 25 points and 7 boards.

Turkey - USA 55-84
Perfect 5-0 for the USA, who already secured the first place in Preliminary Group A and of course a spot for the Quarterfinals. Morgan Tuck (188-F-94) and Jewell Loyd (175-G-93) netted 11 points each for the winners. Ozge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) replied with 13 points for Turkey, who dropped to 1-3.

Canada - Russia 61-76
Russia outplayed Canada joining Japan and France with 2-2 record in Group A. Darya Namok (179-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 13 points, while Marina Ryavkina (169-G-93) had two less than her. Canada (1-3) got 20 points and 6 rebounds from Nirra Fields (173-G-93).

Group B

Argentina - Spain 38-68
Spain destroyed Argentina for the second win in Toulouse (2-2). At the same time, Spain secured a place for the Quarterfinals, while Argentina will face with elimination. Andrea Vilaro (179-F-93) shined in this crucial game with 18 points and 5 assists. Daiana Acosta (180-F-93) netted 8 points in defeat.

Mali - Australia 39-88
3-1 for Australia and 4-0 for Mali after four days in Toulouse. Australia already booked a spot for the QFinals, while Mali lost all chances to do the same as they are dead last in this pool. Tayla Roberts (191-F/C-93) was the leading player in victory with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Mariam Maiga (169-G-96) netted 16 pts for Mali.

Belgium - China 90-80
Belgium handed the first loss to China and they are together on top of Group B now (3-1). Julie Vanloo (172-G-93) exploded in this victory with 31 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Yu Dong (195-C/F-93) replied with 25 points and 9 boards in loss.

Div.A Standings

Standings

Group A 1. USA 4-0 2. France 2-2 3. Japan 2-2 4. Russia 2-2 5. Turkey 1-3 6. Canada 1-3 Group B 1. Australia 3-1 2. Belgium 3-1 3. China 3-1 4. Spain 2-2 5. Argentina 1-3 6. Mali 0-4