EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/31/2010

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Men News

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  ABI   


ABI news from League Commisioner - by Gianni Pascucci
According with an official release from Anthony Toney , the Americas Basketball International Commisioner, the 2010 League Pre- Draft Camp will be held August 19-21, 2010 in Birmingham, Alabama. At that time the ABI officials will evaluate players for the whole league and not just for the teams in United States.
The officials for the league in Central and South America will be in attendance.
At the Pre-Draft Camp, the League will announce the Season schedule and the new South America teams coming into the league. LPB of Guatemala and Liga Elite de Baloncesto de El Salvador with have join the ABI with at least six team from each league playing this season. They will also be at the pre-draft camp looking at players.


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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Cibona brings in Karlo Vragovic - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Croatian media, BC Cibona has agreed a transfer of Karlo Vragovic (192-G-89) from BC Dubrava. Reportedly, Vragovic has put signature to a three-year deal with an option to extend it for one more season. Vragovic is expected to bring his scoring abilities to Croatian champion while Dubrava is set to receive compensation for the player who had one more year on his contract. Vragovic is the third reinforcement for Cibona as they have previously brought in Pasalic and Lalic.
Karlo Vragovic is a product of BC Dubrava system. He has made his senior debut in 2005. Following season he played in 22 games and has posted averages of 7.6 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Each season, Vragovic improved his game at Dubrava becoming a starting guard. Last season, he simply exploded as he averaged 20.7 points and 3.7 assists per game in 22 league matches. So far, Vragovic has represented Croatia at youth levels. In 2007, he was a member of U18 Croatia which played at the U18 European Championships in Spain. Vragovic appeared in 8 games and has averaged 14.9 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. In 2009, he played at the U20 European Championships in Greece. There in 5 games he has scored 16.0 points and has grabbed 2.9 rebounds per match.

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Angola1-0
2. Egypt1-0
3. Senegal0-0
4. Tunisia0-1
5. Kenya0-1
Group B
1. Nigeria1-0
2. DRCongo0-0
3. Ivory Coas.0-0
4. Mali0-0
5. Mozambique.0-1


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  AUSTRALIA   


2010 Stankovic Cup: Boomers Defeat Slovenia - by Ian Moss
The Golden Star Australian Boomers have defeated European strongmen Slovenia 77-63 in their second game of the Stankovic Continental Cup on Thursday night to remain undefeated in the tournament.


A night after they upset their Chinese hosts, 64-63, in their opening game, the Boomers returned to the Liugang Gymnasium in Liuzhou to face the world number 20.

The Australians led for most of the match and comfortably held off every Slovenian challenge to score a 14-point win.

Patrick Mills and Adam Gibson led the Australians in scoring with 15 points apiece. Brad Newley added 14 and Joe Ingles 12.

For Slovenia Sani Becirovic led the way with 15 points, Jaka Klobucar added 13 and Uros Slokar had 10.

Boomers head coach Brett Brown was happy with his teams defence against Slovenia.

We played a very good team and I was happy with the way we guarded them as a group, Brown said. They have an excellent scoring team, and some dynamic perimeter shooters including NBA guard Goran Dragic and an NBA centre in Primoz Brezec. To hold Slovenia to 64 points for the game and 12 in the last quarter was a terrific effort. This area must not waiver.

Slowly there is a comfort level with each other emerging and a recognition of our system. Theres just nothing like playing games to expedite both improvement and recognition of weaknesses'

Brown was particularly happy with the effort of Gold Coast Blaze guard Gibson.

The win was all the more impressive because Boomers big man Matt Nielsen suffered a corked left thigh in the third quarter and did not play for the remainder of the game.

For full video of the match visit http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/8582540

For match photos visit http://pic.bscup.tom.com/vw/211265-11.html#picchange

Australian Boomers 77 defeated Slovenia 63
Stankovic Continental Cup Game 2
Liugang Gymnasium, Liuzhou, China

Quarter-by-Quarter
1st Quarter AUS 16, SLO 17
2nd Quarter AUS 24, SLO 17
3rd Quarter AUS 21, SLO 17
4th Quarter AUS 16, SLO 12

Top scorers
AUS P. Mills 15, A. Gibson 15, B. Newley 14, J. Ingles 12
SLO S. Becirovic 15, J. Klobucar 13, U. Slokar 10

Courtesy Basketball Australia
(basketball.net.au)

West Adelaide Bearcats won Central ABL Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
West Adelaide Bearcats won Central ABL Regular Season. The team finished on top with 15-3 record. In the last game of the Regular Season the team lost to Southern Tigers 82:86. Tristan Braithwaite (184-G-85) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Matthew Williams nailed 18. Shane Boal (G-86) collected 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Joel Goodenough added 13 points. Kurtis Phillips (198-G/F-90) and Christopher Molitor ended up with 21 points in the losing effort.
Sturt Sabres are second with 13-5 record as well as Norwood Flames on the third place. Sturt Sabres won over North Adelaide Rockets 91:71 as Darren Ng exploded with 30 points. Jacob Holmes finished the night with 18 points and 12 boards, while Thomas Daly (184-G-91) scored 13. Tom Rowe produced 20 points and Pero Vasilijevic ended up with 19 points and 16 rebounds.
Norwood Flames lost the second spot to Sabres as they lost to Forestville Eagles 83:85. Riley Luettgerodt (196-G/F-85, college: Hawaii) paced all the winners with 38 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Brad Sullivan notched 13. Todd Matthews delivered 17 points in the losing effort.
Forestville Eagles will face North Adelaide Rockets in the Elimination Final (4 v 5) on the last day of July. Sturt Sabres will play versus Norwood Flames at the Qualifying Final (2 v 3).


Boomers down feisty Iran - by Eurobasket News
The Golden Star Australian Boomers have survived against a determined Iran team to record a 69-60 victory and remain undefeated at the Stankovic Continental Cup in China, advancing to the Final of the prestigious tournament.

Playing at the Liugang Gymnasium in Liuzhou against the 21st-ranked team in the world, the Boomers (ranked 11th globally) were troubled by Iran but still improved to a perfect 3-0 record to qualify for the tournaments Final on Sunday night as the highest-ranked team.

Australia will now play Slovenia in the Championship Game at 7:30PM local time (9:30PM AEDT) on Sunday, after the Slovenians defeated China in Friday nights other game to improve to 2-1 for the tournament. Australia defeated Slovenia, 77-63, on Thursday night and will head into the final as the hot favourites to win their second Stankovic Continental Cup in two years.

Patrick Mills again led the Australian scoring effort with a team-high 16 points, while David Andersen (212-C-80) added 13 and Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) 12.

Boomers head coach Brett Brown said his team underestimated the Iranians.

'We came out too complacent, said Brown. Thats something that cannot happen again. There is no margin for error at the World Championships. It was a good lesson to learn for the team.

Youve got to give Iran credit. They forced us to go small. I dont like doing that but we ended the game with four perimeter guys and David Andersen. Their guards hurt us, our bigs got in foul trouble and we were having a difficult time defending them, so we decided to go small. We were lucky to pull away at that stage with some Joe Ingles threes and Patty Mills layups.

Australian veteran forward Matt Nielsen did not play due to a corked left thigh suffered the night before in the Boomers win over Slovenia.

The Stankovic Continental Cup is an integral part of the Boomers preparations for the 2010 FIBA World Championships in Turkey from 28 August to 12 September.

Video highlights of the match can be found at: http://bscup.tom.com/

Action photos can be found at: http://bscup.tom.com/2010-07-30/0PRP/34442142_12.html

The official English-version event website is at: http://bscup.tom.com/english/index.html

RESULT
Australian Boomers 69 defeated Iran 60
Stankovic Continental Cup Game 3
Liugang Gymnasium, Liuzhou, China

Quarter-by-Quarter
1st Quarter AUS 20, SLO 13
2nd Quarter AUS 14, SLO 13
3rd Quarter AUS 18, SLO 23
4th Quarter AUS 17, SLO 11

Top scorers
AUS P. Mills 16, D. Andersen 13, J. Ingles 12
SLO O. Sahakian 16, Bahrami 14, A. Kardoust 10
Courtesy of: http://www.basketball.net.au

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  BELGIUM   


Oostende Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Base Oostende has announced the signing of US/Belgian forward Marcus Faison (196-G-78, college: Siena). Faison has plenty of experience in the Belgian League since he started his overseas career in 2000 playing for Verviers-Pepinster. He then moved to Charleroi where he played the next 4 seasons from 2002 till 2006. During his career in Belgium he earned several Eurobasket awards such as Import Player of the Year and Playoff MVP.
He split the past season between Peristeri in Greece and Dnipro in Ukraine. In 21 games in Greece he averaged 12.5 ppg and 3.2 rpg. His stats in Ukraine were 16.2 ppg and 4.7 rpg.

Mons Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Dexia Mons-Hainaut has announced the signing of American forward Shan Foster (198-G/F-86, college: Vanderbilt) for the 2010-2011 season.
Foster left Vanderbilt in 2008 as the school's all time leading scorer and 3pt shooter. He was voted SEC player of the year after his senior year when he led the conference in scoring with 20.3 ppg. His great senior year got him drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2nd round of the 2008 NBA draft.
He then went to Italy where he played for Caserta. This season he played 14 games for Antalya in Turkey. In those 14 games he averaged 9.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg.

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  BOSNIA   


Bosnia finally beats Montenegro - by Eurobasket News
Friendly: Bosnia and Herzegovina - Montenegro 80-76

Bosnia has finally managed to beat Montenegro in a friendly match. After suffering three losses, Bosnian players were finally able to record the win in second friendly duel in Sarajevo. The game started off as a closely contested matchup with teams trading basket for basket. After initial 10 minutes of play it was Montenegro who was up 16-17. Than in the second period Bosnian players went on a scoring blitz as they simply could not miss. In a high scoring quarter they were able to build 12 point lead with a series of runs. So at the halftime break the score stood at 50-38. Second quarter proved to be decisive, as Montenegrin players could not recover from this deficit in the third period. They slowly melted away the deficit but still it was Bosnian players who were in control. In the final period, Bosnia was able to counter every attempt by Montenegrin players to make a comeback. In the end they managed to prevail to record 80-76 win.
Five players reached double digits for Bosnia with Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90) leading the way with 16 points. He was closely followed by Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) and Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) who added 14 points apiece. Feliks Kojadinovic (197-G-79, agency: BeoExcell) and Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) were also good as they have finished the game with 11 points each. For Montenegro, Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) led the way with 19 points. Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points, while Milos Borisov (201-F-85) chipped in 15.

Bosnia: Nihad Djedovic 16, Henry Domercant 14, Edin Bavcic 14, Feliks Kojadinovic 11, Kenan Bajramovic 11
Montenegro: Nikola Pekovic 19, Goran Jeretin 16, Milos Borisov 15

Montenegro beats Bosnia in a friendly 86-81 - by Eurobasket News
Friendly: Montenegro - Bosnia and Herzegovina 86- 81

One more time Montenegro NT was able to beat Bosnia in a friendly game. Teams squared off in Sarajevo and this time the game definitely had more intense than previous as several minor incidents occurred during the match. Even with tempers flaring, it was Montenegro who had more composure on their way to 86-81 win. It was Montenegro who opened the game better, taking the initial lead. After 10 minutes of play the score stood at 20-16. In the second period, teams spent most of the time trading basket for basket. Bosnians managed to cut the deficit by 2 points by the halftime. Teams went for HT break with scoreboard showing 42-40 Montenegro lead. After that, Montenegrin players increased intensity again. They managed to make a run which gave them their biggest lead of the match. Game entered final period with Montenegro holding 67-60 lead. In the final 10 minutes, Bosnia players tried to cut the deficit and to make a comeback. However, their opponents showed composure and were able to routinely close the game out for the final score 86-81.
Once again Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) led Montenegro with 21 points after he dominated in the paint. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points, while Omar Cook (186-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) chipped in 14 points of his own. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) and Sead Sehovic (201-C/F-89) also reached double digits, finishing the game with 11 and 10 points respectively. On the other side, Bosnia was led by Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) who had 16 points. Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) followed with 15, while Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) added 14 points.

Montenegro: Nikola Pekovic 21, Vladimir Dasic 16, Omar Cook 14, Vladimir Dragicevic 11, Sead Sehovic 10
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Edin Bavcic 16, Kenan Bajramovic 15, Henry Domercant 14

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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Jamaica beats IVB in overtime - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Places 5-7: JAMAICA - BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 75-68 OT

Jamaica made a first step forward to fifth place in Mayaguez. Jamaicans were better than IVB in overtime and will have to beat Panama in order to win position No.5. On the other side, IVB ended the championship as the last ranked team. Akeem Scott (186-G-83, college: High Point) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds in victory. Ricardo Alliman (201-F/C-87) was the MVP of this game with valuation 29. He spent 41 minutes on court collecting 13 points and 26 rebounds. Michael Rogers (198-G-88) helped with 11 pts. In IVB, Chaurbin Smith (178-G-80, college: Sauk Valley CC) was the leading scorer with 16 points. Kennedy Bass (196-F-81, college: Anderson) (8 rebs), Kilven Samuel (8 rebs) and Avery Percival (198-F-85) (5 rebs) netted 14 points each.
Jamaica opened the game with nice 16-10 lead, but IVB replied in the second frame with 16-19. Still, Jamaica was 3 pts up ahead of the second half. Chaurbin Smith and his teammates created 20-23 in third quarter and teams started from zero again. We saw basket after basket game for the rest of regular time, which ended with 65-65 tie. In extra five minutes Jamaica totally took control on their rivals, what resulted with nice 10-3 for 75-68 OT win.
On Friday, Jamaica will meet Panama.

Jamaica: Akeem Scott 21+7 boards, Ricardo Alliman 13+26 boards, Michael Rogers 11
British Virgin Islands: Chaurbin Smith 16, Kennedy Bass 14+8 boards, Kilven Samuel 14+8 boards, Avery Percival 14+5 boards

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  BULGARIA   


Bulgaria surprise Sweden in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U18 - Sweden U18 73:70

Bulgaria posted the first win at the classification round of the U18 European Championship in Lithuania. They toppled Sweden in Group G today. Bulgaria thus improved at 1-3 record, dropping the Scandinavians to 2-2. Dimitar Dimitrov (203-F-93) accounted for 20 points to pace Bulgaria.
Dimitar Dimitrov scored 7 points in the opening frame as Bulgaria surged ahead. They posted a 15:12 lead at the first intermission. Sirakov, Simeonov and Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93) drained triples to ensure a 25:14 lead midway through the second term. However Sweden used a 12:1 run late in the half to take a 32:31 lead. The lead changed hands throughout the third stanza. Tencho Tenchev capped it with three free throws to give Bulgaria a 52:48 lead. Magarity and Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) drew things level at the start of the fourth period but Bulgaria immediately replied with a 10:2 spurt. Sweden trailed by only one point 67:68 with 42 seconds remaining however Dimitar Dimitrov and Dafinov helped Bulgaria to a 4-point lead and they hung on to win the game.
Tencho Tenchev accounted for 18 points and 8 rebounds for Bulgaria. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) netted 11 points in the victory. Marcus Eriksson (196-G-93) replied with 21 points for Sweden. Jonathan Person notched 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the loss.

Bulgaria U18: Dimitar Dimitrov 20, Tencho Tenchev 18, Pavlin Ivanov 11
Sweden U18: Marcus Eriksson 21, Jonathan Person 14


Atanas Radev close to joining Rilski Sportist - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Bulgarian media, Rilski Sportist is close to adding a fresh face to its roster. Reportedly the club is close to signing BC Balkan captain Atanas Radev (200-F-81). The player himself recently confirmed there is a possibility he may be leaving Balkan with Rilski Sportist as his next destination. Rilski has reportedly offered Radev a two-year deal but the financial details were not disclosed. Next couple of days will show whether this deal will materialize, but the chances are good that Radev will be Rilski player very soon.
Atanas Radev started his career during 2000-2001 season as member of Cherno More. He played for 3 seasons with the club averaging 13.6 ppg in his last one. In 2004, he moved to Spartak Evronis MVR and year later he signed with Yambol. There he averaged 7.9 points in 15 games. At the start of 2006-2007 season, Radev returned to Cherno More where he played in 34 games, posting averages of 5.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. In 2007, he moved to Balkan, helping the team gain promotion to NBL in three seasons he played there. Last season, Radev averaged 12.9 points and 7.3 rebounds in 32 NBL games. His outing enabled him personal recognition as he was voted Bulgarian League All-Domestic Player team. Radev has also received call to the Bulgaria National Team.

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  CAC GAMES   


Puerto Rico wins the Gold in Mayaguez - by Eurobasket News
FINAL
Mexico - Puerto Rico 77-82
Puerto Rico won the Gold in Mayaguez. The host of CAC Games was better than Mexico in the Big Final to finish as No.1. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: Florida Intern.) (6 as) and Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Miami (OH)) scored 16 points each for the winners, while Renaldo Balkman (201-F-84, agency: Buck Andre, college: S.Carolina) added 14 pts and 16 boards. Jovan Harris (191-G/F-81, college: USF) replied with 25 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for Mexico, who won the Silver at this event.

Places 3-4
Dominican Republic - U.S. Virgin Islands 79-69
The Bronze belongs to Dominicans. They outplayed ISV in the last day of competition to finish as No.3. Kelvin Pena (193-G-80, college: Southeastern CC) was the leading player in victory with 26 points. ISV god 24 points from Walter Hodge (183-G-86, college: Florida) and stays without the medal in Mayaguez.

Places 5-6
Panama - Jamaica 64-83
Jamaica ended as No.5, while Panama is the sixth ranked team in Mayaguez. Andre Smith (188-G-80, college: NC-Asheville) paced Jamaica to this victory with 28 points. Josimar Ayarza (203-F-87) had 26 pts and 6 boards in defeat.

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  CANADA   


Jermaine Anderson to play in Russia - by Eurobasket News
Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham) will play in Russia in the upcoming season. The 27-year-old guard signed a deal with Triumph. Last season Jermaine Anderson played for Cedevita in Croatia. He averaged 9.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game in the Croatian league. In EuroChallenge his stats read 13.2 points, 3.5 boards and 3.3 assists per appearance. In Adriatic League Jermaine Anderson stepped up with 12.3 points, 4.4 assists and 3.6 boards. The guard played for the Canadian National Team at the FIBA Americas Championship in Puerto Rico in 2009. He notched 8.7 points and 4.2 assists per game in San Juan.


Toronto Raptors trade for Aussie centre David Andersen - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors added Australian big man David Andersen (7'0''-C-80) in a trade with the Houston Rockets.

The 6ft 11in centre began his professional career at the Wollongong Hawks before moving to Virtus Bologna in 1999. After 10 years in Europe, including spells at CSKA Moscow and FC Barcelona, Andersen was snapped up by the Rockets last season.

The 30-year-old, a decent three-point shooter and strong rebounder, scored 5.8 points per game last season for the Rockets but with star centre Yao Ming set to return after a year injured on the sidelines, Houston traded Andersen to the Raptors for a second-round pick.

Elsewhere the Miami Heat re-signed power forward Shavlik Randolph and the Los Angeles Clippers re-signed the sharp-shooting small forward Rasual Butler.

Courtesy of www.mirror.co.uk

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  CAPE VERDE   


NBA and WNBA Stars Bring Basketball to Cape Verde - by Pedro Gomes
Current Philadelphia Sixer Willie Green (193-G-81, college: Detroit Mercy) and former WNBA player Nykesha Sales will visit Praia, Cape Verde August 1-4, 2010
where they will serve as Sports Envoys. During their trip, Willie and Nykesha will visit Praia, Tarrafal and Assomada. They will conduct five basketball clinics for
350 boys and girls, visit a childrens center, and meet with Cape Verde President Pedro Pires. The NBA and the Cape Verde Basketball Federation are cooperating
with the programs implementation.


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  CHINA   


Straits Cup: TB beats Fujian in OT - by Chris Wang
Chen Shih-Nian (181-G-84) scored 10 of Taiwan Beer's 12 points in the overtime as TB beat Fujian SBS 92-88 Friday in the 2010 Straits Cup invitational tournament. Lin Chih-chieh had 4 three-pointers in the 4th period for TB, which led by as many as 12 points earlier in the game.

The fifth edition of a cross-Taiwan Strait tournament is being held in Taiwan with four teams participating. The four teams are: Taiwan Beer, Fujian SBS Xunxin from Chinese League CBA, Hong Kong champion Nam Wah and Macau Fukien basketball team. The tourney is played at Taipei Municiple Arena and National Yilan University Stadium.
Hong Kong's Nam Wah routed Macau Fukien basketball team 104-56 Friday.

China Loses to Slovenia in Stankovic Cup - by Arthur Volbert
In a game that confirmed that this tournament is merely practice for the World Championship, Slovenia defeated China 75-71 in the Stankovic Cup. Yi Jianlian scored 11 points in the first quarter, then was pulled for the remainder of the game. Wang Zhizhi scored 17 points, but only played 25 minutes.

Liu Wei, Sun Yue and Wang Shipeng each got about 30 minutes of playing team. It appears confirmed that Zhu FangYu (201-F-83) will not recover from injury in time for the world tournament. So Liu, Sun and Wang will be playing the bulk of the time on the perimeter and have to learn how to work together.

Liu had 15 points and 6 rebounds, though he only hit 1 of 6 three-pointers. Wang had 8 points on 2 of 7 shooting. Sun had 4 points on 2 of 7 shooting. Zhou Peng played 27 minutes and scored 8 points. Zhou will be the primary backup at shooting guard and small forward with Zhu out.

Goran Drajic led Slovenia with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Samo Udrih had 13 points and 4 rebounds.



Link to Chinese Box Score:

http://cba.sports.sina.com.cn/look_scores.php?m_id=4698




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  CROATIA   


Luka Pesut signs with Zabok - by Eurobasket News
BC Zabok is set to announce new reinforcement at the guard position. Reportedly the club has struck a deal with Luka Pesut (193-G-91), a young Croatian player. Last season, Pesut spent most of his time at A2 outfit Zrinjevac where he was one of the team`s best players. Now he will have a chance to continue to develop his skills in stronger competition as Zabok is playing in A1 league. Player himself stated that he was delighted to be offered an opportunity to sign with Zabok. He hopes he will be able to further develop his game, while at the same time repaying for the faith shown in him. It remains to be seen what are further plans for BC Zabok management and if any new players will be brought in ahead of new season.
Luka Pesut is a product of BC Zagreb junior team. He has made his professional debut at the start of this season as member of BC Zrinjevac. In November of 2009 he has moved to BC Zagreb where he mostly played for the junior team. However, he did get the taste of senior action when he made 1 EuroChallenge appearance. He has also played in 4 Adriatic Leagues games and has averaged 1.3 points per game. Pesut has so far represented Croatia at U16 level. In 2007, he took participation at the U16 European Championships which were held in Greece. In 8 games, Pesut has averaged 4.1 points and 3.4 rebounds.

Toni Bizaca moves to Khimik Yuzny - by Eurobasket News
Toni Bizaca (202-F-82) will continue his career in Ukraine. The Croatian scoring machine has agreed a deal with Khimik-OPZ Yuzny at the request of their Head Coach Zoran Kalpic . Bizaca is the third signing for Khimik as they have previously landed Luka Drezga (196-G-87) and Curtis Millage (185-G-81, college: Arizona St.). Bizaca is expected to offer Khimik another viable scoring threat. Last season he was voted as MVP of Croatian A1 league after he averaged 21.0 points per match. Bizaca himself confirmed that he was delighted to be offered a chance to play for Khimik.
Toni Bizaca started his career in 2001 as member of A2 outfit Plastik Solin. Following season, Bizaca split time between Split and Focus Varazdin. In his career he has also played for the likes of Triglav Livno, Zagorje and Trogir before signing with Grude in 2005. In his second season with BC Grude, Bizaca averaged 15.4 points in 21 games played. At the start of 2007-2008 season, Bizaca returned for his second stint with Trogir. In three seasons with the club, he has helped Trogir reach A1 league. Last season, Bizaca played in 31 league games where he averaged 21.0 points and 1.9 rebounds. His displays earned him All-Croatian A1 League Bosman Player of the Year as well as All-Croatian A1 League Honourable Mention.

Latvia march past Croatia into semis - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Croatia U18 78:56

Latvia reached the semifinal stage of the U18 European Championship. They fired past Croatia in the quarterfinal battle today. Davis Bertans (200-F-92) led balanced effort with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Latvia will now take on Russia in the semis. Croatia will play versus France in the classification games for the 5th-8th place.
Edmunds Dukulis (201-C-92, agency: Players Group) and Davis Bertans teamed up for nine points in a row as Latvia posted a 21:11 lead late in the starting quarter. Latvia ensured a 23:17 advantage at the first break. Vecvagars opened the second term with a three-pointer as Latvia stretched the gap. Back-to-back three-pointers from Vecvagars and Janis Timma (198-F-92) gave Latvia a 40:26 advantage midway through the second quarter. The Baltic team entered the second half up by 15 points 47:32. Latvia tipped off the third term with six points in a row to boost the lead. They rallied confidently posting a 60:41 lead into the fourth quarter. Boris Barac (204-F-92) notched five points in a row to drag Croatia within 15 points early in the fourth stanza. But Latvia quickly restored a safe cushion and drove to the victory at the end.
Janis Timma came up with 16 points for Latvia. Edmunds Dukulis added 14 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. Boris Barac replied with 15 points and 10 caroms for Croatia. Roko Rogic (187-G-92) nailed 12 points in the loss.

Latvia U18: Davis Bertans 17+10 boards, Janis Timma 16, Edmunds Dukulis 14+10 boards
Croatia U18: Boris Barac 15+10 boards, Roko Rogic 12


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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


CAC Games: Mexico outsmarts Dominican Republic in the Semis - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Semifinals: DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - MEXICO 82-85

Mexico handed the first loss to Dominicans advancing to Big Final in Mayaguez. There, Mexico will take on powerful Puerto Rico. Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 5 rebounds. Jovan Harris (191-G/F-81, college: USF) helped with 13, while Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) and Omar Quintero (183-G-81, agency: DR. Carlos Sifuentes, college: S.Nazarene) added 12 points and 5 rebounds each. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) shined in defeat with 25 points and 11 boards. Cristian Arias (191-G-81) had 14 points and 5 boards. Dominicans will meet ISV for the Bronze.
Mexicans made quick 10-15 lead at the beginning, but were able to keep just 22-24 for the rest of Q1. Orlando Mendez-Valdez and his teammates were better in the second frame as well. This time they drained 24 points, while limiting Dominicans to 17 for 39-48 lead at the halftime. Dominicans replied after the breather making 20-15 in Q3 and everything was open again. In very exciting finish Mexicans were focused and they managed to end this game with 82-85 and to reach the Big Final.
Friday is the last day of the competition. Gold: Mexico - Puerto Rico; Bronze: Dominican Republic - ISV.

Dominican Republic: Jack Michael Martinez 25+11 boards, Cristian Arias 14+5 boards
Mexico: Orlando Mendez-Valdez 19+5 boards, Jovan Harris 13, Hector Hernandez 12+5 boards, Omar Quintero 12+5 boards

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  EUROCUP   


VEF Riga add Patrick Sanders - by Eurobasket News
VEF Riga signed the first import player for the upcoming season. The Latvian powerhouse added Patrick Sanders (198-F-85, college: Cal-Irvine) to the roster. The 24-year-old forward spent the previous season in Netherlands. Patrick Sanders played for MyGuide Amsterdam. He notched 14.8 points, 4.6 boards, 2.1 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks per appearance.


Gran Canaria 2014 signs Judson Wallace - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria 2014 announced another new player for the next season. The Spanish outfit has signed a deal with American Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Princeton). The 27-year old power forward is coming to the island from Benetton Treviso, where he played last season. He appeared 30 times in SerieA averaging 9.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists. Benetton ended as No.8 in regular season and later faced with elimination in the Quarterfinals. The team also competed in EuroCup, where Wallace added 9.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.5 apg. He joined Benetton in 2008 having slightly better numbers than this season.
Before Benetton Treviso, Judson Wallace spent one year with Capo dOrlando. He shined in SerieA with 14.5 ppg, 10.4 rpg and 1.9 apg. Wallace ended championship as the leading rebounder. From 2005 to 2007 Wallace was a member of the German team Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, where he also was once of the leading players.
Meanwhile, Louis Bullock (186-G-76, college: Michigan) and Real Madrid officially parted ways. The veteran guard has reached an agreement with the Whites to terminate his contract, which was valid until the end of 2010/11 season. According to some sources, Bullock already has offers from Cajasol and Maccabi Tel-Aviv.

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  EUROLEAGUE   


Lietuvos Rytas inks Petras Balocka - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas improved its frontcourt for the upcoming season by inking Petras Balocka (203-C-86). The Lithuanian power forward signed a two-year deal on Thursday.
Petras Balocka arrived to Rytas from University of Hawaii, where he graduated few months ago. In his senior season Balocka collected 7.9 ppg, 8 rpg and 1.8 apg for 28 games. He transferred to Hawaii from East Tennessee State University in 2008. In his first year with Hawaii he collected 8.7 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 1.5 apg. With East Tennessee he had 1.8 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 13 games on season 2006/07.

Cibona brings in Karlo Vragovic - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Croatian media, BC Cibona has agreed a transfer of Karlo Vragovic (192-G-89) from BC Dubrava. Reportedly, Vragovic has put signature to a three-year deal with an option to extend it for one more season. Vragovic is expected to bring his scoring abilities to Croatian champion while Dubrava is set to receive compensation for the player who had one more year on his contract. Vragovic is the third reinforcement for Cibona as they have previously brought in Pasalic and Lalic.
Karlo Vragovic is a product of BC Dubrava system. He has made his senior debut in 2005. Following season he played in 22 games and has posted averages of 7.6 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Each season, Vragovic improved his game at Dubrava becoming a starting guard. Last season, he simply exploded as he averaged 20.7 points and 3.7 assists per game in 22 league matches. So far, Vragovic has represented Croatia at youth levels. In 2007, he was a member of U18 Croatia which played at the U18 European Championships in Spain. Vragovic appeared in 8 games and has averaged 14.9 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. In 2009, he played at the U20 European Championships in Greece. There in 5 games he has scored 16.0 points and has grabbed 2.9 rebounds per match.

Power Electronics Valencia takes James Augustine - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup champion Power Electronics Valencia improved its frontcourt for its Turkish Airlines Euroleague Basketball return in the 2010-11 season by inking rebounding ace James Augustine (208-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) to a one-year deal, the club announced Friday. Augustine arrives from Gran Canaria 2014, where he played in each of the last two seasons. He was the Eurocup's best rebounder last season, pulling down 7.4 boards per game. He also averaged 9.1 points on 88.2% free throws in 14 games, helping Gran Canaria to reach the Eurocup Quarterfinals. Augustine has also played for Orlando in the NBA and Anaheim in the D-League since finishing his college career at the University of Illinois (NCAA). He helped Illinois to reach the NCAA Tournament final and win the Big Ten tournament - earning MVP honors - in 2005. Augustine was chosen to the All-Big Ten first team in 2006. As such, Augustine completes Valencia's frontcourt for the upcoming season along with Robertas Javtokas (211-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona), Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) and Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket).

Courtesy of Euroleague

Greens land Aleks Maric for the next two years - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos made very important signing for the next season. The Greek powerhouse and former Euroleague champion officially announced arrival of Aleks Maric (211-C-84) for the next two years. The 25-year old center is coming to Athens from Partizan Belgrade, where he spent last season. Maric exploded in Euroleague averaging 14.6 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists for 18 games. He helped Partizan to reach the Final Four in Paris and was named Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Center of the Year -10. Maric dominated in other competitions as well. He led Partizan to Adriatic league crown with 11.5 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 22 games. In Serbian championship, Partizan defended the title and Maric had 12.1 ppg, plus 6 rpg for 17 games. The Serbian powerhouse grabbed another trophy last season and it was the National Cup.
Aleks Maric arrived to Partizan last summer from Granada. He played 32 games in Spain that season registering 4.6 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Maric is a product of Nebraska University, where he graduated in 2008. In his senior season he collected 15.7 ppg, 10.2 rpg and 1.9 apg for 33 games. In 2006 and 2009 Maric was a member of the Australian National Team. In 2003, he helped U18 Australia to win the U18 World Championship in Greece.

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   


Division C. Day 4 in Andorra - by Eurobasket News
Classification Games (5-8 place)

Wales U16 - Gibraltar U16 89:43
Welsh U16 selection will fight for the fifth place at the European Championship in Division C. They toppled Gibraltar yesterday in Andorra. Wales will now take on Malta on Saturday. Gibraltar will face Monaco in the battle for the seventh overall place.
The lead changed hands for several times throughout the opening quarter. The teams were tied at 15 ten minutes into the game. Wales however went on a stunning 21:0 run in the second term to accumulate a 36:17 lead. They finished the first half up by 22 points 44:22. Wales unloaded as many as 29 points in the third term to consolidate their lead. They entered the fourth quarter up by 44 points. The teams slowed down in the final period trading baskets as Wales coasted to the win.
Jacob Lloyd netted 22 points for Wales. Sumiullah Khan added 21 points and 13 rebounds in the victory. Adrian Bado replied with 15 points for Gibraltar. Jensen Balestrino accounted for 6 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Wales U16: Jacob Lloyd 22, Sumiullah Khan 21+13 boards, Aiden Reyonolds 8
Gibraltar U16: Adrian Bado 15, Jensen Balestrino 6

Malta U16 - Monaco U16 62:37
Malta will play for the fifth overall position at the U16 European Championship in Andorra. They held off Monaco yesterday in the classification round. Aaron Falzon exploded with 32 points and 24 rebounds to pace Malta.
Malta started the game strongly. They recorded a 21:7 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Malta limited Monaco to just 7 points in the second term and earned a 23-point mark at halftime. Things hardly changed after the big break. Malta kept on mounting the pressure. They built a 31-point buffer before the fourth quarter. Monaco managed to prevail in the fourth stanza but it had little impact on the final outcome. Robert Bonnici produced 15 points for Malta. Christopher Cordina netted 8 points and collected 9 rebounds in the victory. Jules Ba answered with 10 points and 17 rebounds for Monaco. Manuel Robinaud had 9 points in the loss.
Malta will now take on Wales, while Monaco will fight against Gibraltar for the seventh position.

Malta U16: Aaron Falzon 32+24 boards, Robert Bonnici 15, Christopher Cordina 8
Monaco U16: Jules Ba 10+17 boards, Manuel Robinaud 9


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


Standings Division A
Standings
Group E
1. Lithuania5-0
2. Latvia3-2
3. Poland2-3
4. France2-3
5. Spain2-3
6. Slovenia1-4
Group F
1. Russia4-1
2. Serbia3-2
3. Croatia3-2
4. Greece3-2
5. Italy1-4
6. Turkey1-4
Group G (Classif.)
1. Germany3-1
2. Sweden2-2
3. Ukraine2-2
4. Bulgaria1-3


Stats Leaders Div. A
Points Per Game
 Alessandro GENTILE
  (198-G/F-92)
  Avg: 23
 1. Gentile, ITA23.0 
 2. Valanciunas, LTU19.4 
 3. Chrysikopoul., GRE17.7 
 4. Dukulis, LAT16.1 
 5. Artamonov, UKR15.7 
 6. Pukis, LTU15.6 
 7. Ceron, ITA15.6 
 8. Len, UKR15.0 
 9. Bertans, LAT13.9 
 10. Omic, SLO13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 12.7
 1. Valanciunas, LTU12.7 
 2. Len, UKR11.1 
 3. Gospodinov, BUL10.0 
 4. Pajic, SLO9.9 
 5. Gobert, FRA8.7 
 6. Chrysikopoul., GRE8.3 
 7. Dukulis, LAT8.3 
 8. Neumann, GER7.7 
 9. Bertans, LAT7.6 
 10. Marchenko, UKR7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Vytenis CIZAUSKAS
  (189-G-92)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Cizauskas, LTU6.3 
 2. Varnakov, RUS5.4 
 3. Kulagin, RUS4.6 
 4. Person, SWE4.3 
 5. Artamonov, UKR4.1 
 6. Kwiatkowski, POL4.0 
 7. Dafinov, BUL3.9 
 8. Vecvagars, LAT3.9 
 9. Rupnik, SLO3.9 
 10. Grochowski, POL3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Dmitry KULAGIN
  (195-G-92)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Kulagin, RUS2.6 
 2. Marchenko, UKR2.4 
 3. Varnakov, RUS2.4 
 4. Rupnik, SLO2.3 
 5. Trushkin, RUS2.1 
 6. Leon, FRA2.0 
 7. Redikas, LTU2.0 
 8. Vujosevic, SRB2.0 
 9. Ponitka, POL1.9 
 10. Wendt, GER1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Olexiy LEN
  (210-C-93)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Len, UKR4.9 
 2. Chrysikopoul., GRE3.0 
 3. Valanciunas, LTU2.4 
 4. Gobert, FRA1.9 
 5. Najev, CRO1.4 
 6. Niedzwiedzki, POL1.4 
 7. Bertans, LAT1.4 
 8. Trushkin, RUS1.3 
 9. Bobrov, UKR1.3 
 10. Dumic, SRB1.3 


Day: 7 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News
QUARTERFINAL
Lithuania - Greece 84-51
Lithuania became the third semifinalists at the U18 European Championship in Vilnius today. They cruised past Greece to make into Final Four. Dovydas Redikas knocked down 19 points to pace the hosts. The teams traded baskets throughout close first quarter. Lithuania pulled ahead late in the frame posting a 19:16 lead ten minutes into the clash. Edgaras Ulanovas came up with six points early in the second term to give Lithuania a 26:19 advantage. The hosts used a 9:2 run to build a 35:22 lead midway through the second stanza. Cizauskas capped the half with a lay-up to ensure a 42:26 lead for Lithuania. The hosts continued their dominance in the third quarter. Deividas Pukis clinched a 19-point lead with a jumper late in the stanza. Lithuania built a comfortable 25-point advantage with ten minutes to go. Mavrogianis sparked a 7:0 run from the Hellenes in the final term but it did not help them too much as Lithuania steamrolled to the victory. Deividas Pukis notched 15 points and 7 rebounds for Lithuania. Zygimantas Skucas (200-F-92) added 12 points in the winning effort. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos accounted for 21 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Sokratis Psaropoulos netted 9 points in the loss.

Latvia - Croatia 78-56
Latvia reached the semifinal stage of the U18 European Championship. They fired past Croatia in the quarterfinal battle today. Davis Bertans led balanced effort with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Latvia will now take on Russia in the semis. Croatia will play versus France in the classification games for the 5th-8th place. Edmunds Dukulis (201-C-92, agency: Players Group) and Davis Bertans teamed up for nine points in a row as Latvia posted a 21:11 lead late in the starting quarter. Latvia ensured a 23:17 advantage at the first break. Vecvagars opened the second term with a three-pointer as Latvia stretched the gap. Back-to-back three-pointers from Vecvagars and Janis Timma gave Latvia a 40:26 advantage midway through the second quarter. The Baltic team entered the second half up by 15 points 47:32. Latvia tipped off the third term with six points in a row to boost the lead. They rallied confidently posting a 60:41 lead into the fourth quarter. Boris Barac notched five points in a row to drag Croatia within 15 points early in the fourth stanza. But Latvia quickly restored a safe cushion and drove to the victory at the end. Janis Timma came up with 16 points for Latvia. Edmunds Dukulis added 14 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. Boris Barac replied with 15 points and 10 caroms for Croatia. Roko Rogic nailed 12 points in the loss.

Russia - France 73-68 OT
Russia became the first semifinalists of the U18 European Championship. They held off France in a dramatic overtime clash. Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) knocked down 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the effort. Vladislav Trushkin and Alexander Varnakov ensure a quick start for Russia. However France capped the period on a 6:2 run to draw things level at 12. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second quarter. Hugo Invernizzi crowned the first half with a lay-up to ensure a 30:26 lead for France. Karasev tipped off the second half with five points in a row as Russia retained the advantage. The Russian team rallied to a 42:38 lead with ten minutes to go. Diacono and Hugo Invernizzi returned the lead back to Les Bleus. Russia first knotted things up and then Goldyrev ensured a 59:54 lead for Russia with just over two minutes to go. France reacted with five points in a row to level things up at 59. Later Gobert missed both free throws, while Ceci's three-pointer rimmed off as the teams went into extra period. Gobert opened the scoring in overtime however Russia answered with ten consecutive points to pull ahead for good. Dmitry Kulagin netted 15 points for Russia. Alexander Varnakov added 13 points in the winning effort. Hugo Invernizzi accounted for 20 points for France. Mathis Keita had 12 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds in the loss.

Serbia - Poland 75-57
Serbia became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship. The defending champions rolled over Poland U18 75:57 in the last Quarterfinal clash. Gujanicic gave the defending champions 2:0 and Dumic made a jump shot for 10:5. Ponitka tied the game at 14:14, while Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-G-92) closed the first period at 22:18. Michalak tied it all again at 26:26 and Michalak gave Poland 33:32 advantage. Vujosevic sent the teams to the lockers for 38:35. In the third period Serbia started to increase the lead and reached 47:35 as Vujosevic made a jump shot with 8 minutes in the frame. Bogdan Bogdanovic kept the double-digit lead at 53:43 and Siladi scored for 55:46. Vujosevic closed the quarter at 57:47 as Serbia won the frame with 19-12. Petkovic brought plus 18 in the game and Dumic made it 72:55. Bogdan Bogdanovic nailed three at the very end for the final success. Bogdan Bogdanovic paced all the winners with 14 points. Petkovic netted 13, while Vujosevic scored 12. Ponitka ended up with 20 points in the losing effort as Poland will play for the 5th-8th places. Michalak nailed 11, while Gielo added 10.



9-12 places
Spain - Turkey 60-66
Turkey snapped their three-game losing skid at the U18 European Championship in Lithuania. They toppled Spain to earn the right to fight for the ninth overall position at the tournament. Turkey will next face the winner of Italy vs. Slovenia clash. Safak Edge came up with 17 points, 5 boards and 3 assists for Turkey. Turkey marked their ambitions at the start of the game. They opened it with a 12:0 run to take the lead. Spain came back to live late in the quarter to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark 11:16. Turkey began the second frame strongly and grabbed an 11-point advantage. Turkey maintained the lead and ensured a 9-point buffer at halftime 28:37. Eroglu and Safak Edge helped Turkey to a 16-point lead early in the third quarter. The Turkish team headed into the fourth period up by 12 points but Spain managed to spark the intrigue. Joan Creus triggered a 7:0 run that put Spain within five points with 40 seconds to go. Korkmaz knocked down a free throw in the dying seconds, while Servera and Joan Creus missed from downtown to give the win away to Turkey. Muhammed Baygul netted 15 points for Turkey. Burak Yildizli added 12 points and 7 rebounds in the victory. Alejandro Barrera (199-F/C-92) had 14 points for Spain. Joan Tomas netted 9 points in the loss.

Italy - Slovenia 91-96 OT
Slovenia needed overtime to beat the Italian team at the last game of the U18 European Championship on Friday. Slovenia U18 won 96:91 after massive 20-15 in overtime in the game for 5-8 places. Marko Pajic (204-F-92) scored the first five points for Slovenia and Omic gave them 11:2. Italy responded with 13-0 run for 16:13 advantage as Mian made a jump shot. Prepelic closed the first period at 21:19 bringing the last six points for the winners. Slovenia was in front for the whole second period but managed to keep only 37:34 at the halftime. Marco Ceron tied the game at 37:37 and Mian gave Italy 44:43. After 21-20 for Slovenia in the third frame they enjoyed 58:54 lead after three quarters. Dimec scored for the biggest 69:59 lead, while Italy managed to tie the game at the end of the fourth period. Marco Ceron made two free throws for 76:76, but Span gave already Slovenia 90:83 midway through overtime. Rupnik made two free throws for the winners at the end and Marco Ceron closed the game from the perimeter. Marko Pajic top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 20 rebounds. Rupnik nailed 15, while Prepelic posted 13. Marco Ceron erupted with 34 points in the losing case. Mian netted 14, while Monaldi scored 13.

Group G

Bulgaria - Sweden 73-70
Bulgaria posted the first win at the classification round of the U18 European Championship in Lithuania. They toppled Sweden in Group G today. Bulgaria thus improved at 1-3 record, dropping the Scandinavians to 2-2. Dimitar Dimitrov accounted for 20 points to pace Bulgaria. Dimitar Dimitrov scored 7 points in the opening frame as Bulgaria surged ahead. They posted a 15:12 lead at the first intermission. Sirakov, Simeonov and Tencho Tenchev drained triples to ensure a 25:14 lead midway through the second term. However Sweden used a 12:1 run late in the half to take a 32:31 lead. The lead changed hands throughout the third stanza. Tencho Tenchev capped it with three free throws to give Bulgaria a 52:48 lead. Magarity and Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) drew things level at the start of the fourth period but Bulgaria immediately replied with a 10:2 spurt. Sweden trailed by only one point 67:68 with 42 seconds remaining however Dimitar Dimitrov and Dafinov helped Bulgaria to a 4-point lead and they hung on to win the game. Tencho Tenchev accounted for 18 points and 8 rebounds for Bulgaria. Pavlin Ivanov netted 11 points in the victory. Marcus Eriksson replied with 21 points for Sweden. Jonathan Person notched 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the loss.

Germany - Ukraine 59-74
Ukraine outscored Germany in the do-or-die game of the Classification Round to remain alive for remaining in Division A. The Ukrainian team produced 74:59 to improve to 2-2 record. Germany suffered their first loss to drop to 3-1. In case of victory Germany would claim Division A stay for the next year. It was also the last chance for Ukraine and the latter managed to reach the goal. Prokopenko gave Ukraine 7:4, while Klym Artamonov (176-G-93) tied it later at 12:12. He also made it equal at the end of the period for 15:15. Ukraine started the second frame with 7-0 run and Prokopenko nailed three for 22:15. Len scored fro 26:18, while Ney reduced for 30:28. Ukraine won the second stanza 20-18 as Prokopenko closed the half at 35:33. The third quarter became decisive in the game as Ukraine limited Germany to just 8 points. Bobrov made a lay-up at the end of the third frame for 53:40. Wendt remained Germany alive for 58:47 and Breunig scored for 60:54 Ukrainian team however played better at the very end and finished with 15-point advantage. Klym Artamonov nailed three for the final success. Klym Artamonov paced all the winners with 25 points and Prokopenko notched 17. Neumann collected 17 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort. Monninghoff nailed 13, while Wendt scored 8.


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  FRANCE   


Milos Bojovic to Antibes - by Eurobasket News
Milos Bojovic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in France. He has agreed on terms of one-year contract with ProB team Antibes. The 28-year-old guard spent the previous season in Ukraine. Milos Bojovic played for Politekhnika-Halychyna. He notched 7.6 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game. Previously Milos Bojovic had spells for Novi Beograd, Kraljevo, Vojvodina and Buducnost.


France U16 is second in Gijon - by Eurobasket News
France U16 is second in Gijon at the International Tournamnet in Spain. The team had a preparation tournament before U16 European Championship.
In Day 1 Turkey U16 overcame France U16 71:65 in the start. In Day 2 Spain U16 rolled over France U16 53:46. Turkey U16 celebrated the second victory as they beat Greece U16 66:53. Turkey opened the game with 26-17 and added 17-16 in the second period. Moreover they stun the opponents with 14-9 in the third frame, while Greece won the last frame 11-9. Talat Altunbey (94) exploded with 23 points for the winners and Tayfun Erulku (188-G-94) posted 11. Zafer Sezer Alp nailed 10 and Oguzhan Bayrak had 8 points and 7 rebounds. In Day 3 France U16 stun Greece U16 76:67 for the second place.

Monaco post first win in Andorra, finish seventh - by Eurobasket News
Monaco U16 - Gibraltar U16 49:36

Monaco recorded the first win at the U16 European Championship in Division C. They wrapped up their campaign in Andorra with victory over Gibraltar. Daniel Pieper knocked down 13 points to pace Monaco as they occupied the seventh overall position.
Monaco opened the game with a 15:1 run to clear off. They recorded an 18:4 lead ten minutes into the game. Gibraltar pulled within eight minutes midway through the second term. But Monaco struck back and posted a 29:16 lead at the interval. Gibraltar worked hard to deny the deficit in the third term. Bado helped the team to narrow the distance to just four points 29:33 late in the quarter. But Monaco capped the period with six points in a row to earn a 39:29 lead. Monaco stretched the gap to 15 points at the start of the fourth term and never looked back en route to the win.
Jules Ba produced 11 points and 12 rebounds for Monaco. Manuel Robinaud had 10 points in the victory. Adrian Bado accounted for 11 points and 12 rebounds for Gibraltar. Jensen Balestrino had 13 rebounds and 7 blocks to his tally.

Monaco U16: Daniel Pieper 13, Jules Ba 11+12 boards, Manuel Robinaud 10
Gibraltar U16: Adrian Bado 11+12 boards, Thomas Yome 7, James Quigley 7


Russia tame France in thriller - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18 - France U18 73:68

Russia became the first semifinalists of the U18 European Championship. They held off France in a dramatic overtime clash. Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) knocked down 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the effort.
Vladislav Trushkin and Alexander Varnakov (185-G-92) ensure a quick start for Russia. However France capped the period on a 6:2 run to draw things level at 12. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second quarter. Hugo Invernizzi (196-F/G-93) crowned the first half with a lay-up to ensure a 30:26 lead for France. Karasev tipped off the second half with five points in a row as Russia retained the advantage. The Russian team rallied to a 42:38 lead with ten minutes to go. Diacono and Hugo Invernizzi returned the lead back to Les Bleus. Russia first knotted things up and then Goldyrev ensured a 59:54 lead for Russia with just over two minutes to go. France reacted with five points in a row to level things up at 59. Later Gobert missed both free throws, while Ceci's three-pointer rimmed off as the teams went into extra period. Gobert opened the scoring in overtime however Russia answered with ten consecutive points to pull ahead for good.
Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) netted 15 points for Russia. Alexander Varnakov added 13 points in the winning effort. Hugo Invernizzi accounted for 20 points for France. Mathis Keita (192-G-92) had 12 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds in the loss.

Russia U18: Vladislav Trushkin 22, Dmitry Kulagin 15, Alexander Varnakov 13
France U18: Hugo Invernizzi 20, Mathis Keita 12


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


FYROM rolls over Qatar in friendly game - by Eurobasket News
Friendly: FYROM - Qatar 88-60

FYROM NT hosted Qatar in a friendly match and was able to record comfortable 88-60 win. Hosts displayed great shooting ability from behind the arc and that proved to be the crucial thing in this game. Macedonian players opened it with more energy as they took an early lead. They slowly built their advantage throughout the period, so at the end of Q1 they were up 23-17. In the second frame, Qatar players regained their composure and were able to put up better effort. Still it was FYROM who controlled flow of the game. By halftime, they have managed to extend their lead by 3 points as the scoreboard showed 42-33. Third quarter proved to be decisive in this game as FYROM players increased their defensive pressure. They also started shooting the ball well from downtown and this has enabled them to win the third period by 11 points. As result, they entered final period with a comfortable 68-48 lead. In the last quarter, hosts routinely maintained and even extended their lead. In the end they celebrated deserved 88-60 win.
Todor Gecevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) and Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) led the winning side with 17 and 16 points respectively. Gjorgji Cekovski (202-F/C-81, agency: Arik Krayn Services) and Darko Sokolov (190-G-86) also had a good game as they added 13 and 10 points. For Qatar, Alban was the best scorer as he poured in 21 points. However he received little help as only other player to reach double digits was Abdelkar who chipped in 12 points.

Macedonia: Todor Gecevski 17, Vojdan Stojanovski 16, Gjorgji Cekovski 13, Darko Sokolov 10
Qatar: Alban 21, Abdekar 12

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  GERMANY   


MBC Wolves Make It Official: Michael Hakim Jordan New Point Guard - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


The MBC Wolves will start the 2010-2011 BEKO BBL season with an interesting point guard duo with Michael hakim Jordan and Radenko Pilcevic. Jordan recieved a one year contracr and will start his seventh season in Germany. Jordan is a 33 year old 183 cm guard from the city of brotherly love Philidelphia. Last season, he was a big reason for Phoenix Hagen being saved from demotion to the PRO A. Jordan played 16 games: 8.9ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-5 (5.3apg), FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 73.3%. Jordan will play his first time in the east of Germany and his big gergarious smile will surely infect the fans with joy there as well. Coach Bjoern Harmsen is happy about getting the experienced Jordan. 'We have an important component in our team with Jordan in that he has experience. he has played at a high level and will bring our team to the next level', stressed MBC head coach Bjoern Harmsen . Jordan is thrilled about remaining in Germany. 'I am happy and honoured to be able to play for MBC. I will do everything each day for the team and fans. I am excited to be a wolf. It has been a while since I was so excited about a new role', stated Michael Jordan (183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania)

Jordan played at Pennsylvania. He played most of his professional basketball career in Germany. He started at TSV Quackenbruck in 2002-2003 playing 30 games and averaging 21.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 6.9 apg and helping the club reach the BEKO BBL. He played with The Artland Dragons from 2003-2005 helpingv the team reach the playoffs in their second season. In 2005-2006, he won the German championship with Rhein Energie Cologne playing 33 games: 9.8ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-4 (4.1apg), 1.0spg, 2FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 52.2%; FIBA Europe Cup: 6 games: 15.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 5.0apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 63.6%, 3FGP: 40%, FT: 84%. In 2006-2007, he got experience playing in Italy for 37 games: 13.8ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-1 (5.2apg), 2.0spg, 2FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 74.0%. In 2007-2008, he played in Belgium and Greece for TEC Spirou Charleroi (Belgium-D1): Belgian League: 15 games: 9.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.6apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 90.0%; ULEB Cup: 6 games: 5.0ppg, 1.0rpg, 2.7apg, in March '08 moved to PAOK Marfin Thessaloniki (Greece-A1, starting five): 5 games: 7.4ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.6apg, 1.4spg. In 2008-2009, he returned to Germany and played for Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga): German League: 10 games: 6.3ppg, 1.1rpg, 3.5apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 88.9%; Eurocup: 6 games: 2.8ppg, 1.0rpg, 3.0apg, in Jan.'09 signed at Koeln 99ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 17 games: 10.5ppg, 2.4rpg, Assists-1 (6.2apg), Steals-5 (1.5spg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 26.0%, FT: 85.4%.



Source: www.mitteldeutscherbc.de


Alex King Remains With the Telekom Baskets Bonn - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The Telekom Baskets Bonn have been known for years for liking to keep a core of German players for a long time, but this summer the team said goodbye to fan favorite Artur Kolodziejski to the glitz of Munich and Johannes Strasser to the beautiful pastures of Artland, but have done a fine deed by keeping German Alex King (200-F/G-85, agency: Pro One Sports). King is a 25 year old 200 cm shooting guard/small forward that will be playing his third season in Bonn. Last season, he played EuroCup 6 games: 4.5ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.0apg; German League: 36 games: 4.4ppg, 1.9rpg. He has been able to improve his stats each season on the Rhein. 'Alex always gives 100% and is a role model for the whole tem. His role will surely get more important this season', stressed Bonn head coach Michael Koch

King started his basketball career for Eintract Frankfurt in 2002. He then played for The Opel Skyliners/Deutsche Bank Skyliners from 2003-2008. In this time, he played 125 BEKO BBL games and 30 International games. He reached the BEKO BBL semi finals in 2008 losing in five games to The Telekom Baskets Bonn. He also played for the German U-18 and U-20 National teams. In 2005, he played at the European Championships U20 in Moscow 8 games: 4.9ppg, 3.3rpg, 0.6apg, 1.1spg. He was shortly a member of the German national team in 2005.
Sourde: www.telekom-baskets-bonn.de


SSV Lok Bernau Sign Dreshawn Vance And Tim Beck - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

SSV Lok Bernau have finished their search for the 2010-2011 PRO B season by signing Dreshawn Vance (203-F/C-85, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Cal Poly - SLO) and Tim Beck. Vance is a 25 year old 203cm power forward/center that was born in Los Angeles. This will be his third professional basketball season after having played in Denmark the last two seasons. He played for Aalborg Vikings (Denmark-Basketligaen, starting five): playing 28 games: 18.6ppg, Reb-4 (9.0rpg), 2.3apg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 60.2%, 3PT: 12.5%, FT: 59.6%. He is content about coming to Germany. 'I am ready to help the team and fight for success. It is nice that I can take responsobility in Bernau and I can hardly wait to get to know my teammates', said Dreswawn Vance. Vance played at Portland (NCAA) from 2003-2005 and then transfered to Cal Poly - SLO (NCAA) playing there from 2005-2008 and in his senior year played 30 games: 7.5ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 56.8%, 3Pts: 25.0%, FT: 60.0%. Coach Torsten Schierenbeck is happy about getting the American. 'He is a good rebounder and scorer. He is a good ball handler and fits perfect to our team', stressed Bernau coach Torsten Schierenbeck . Last season Vance won the Danish title and was on Allstar in Denmark.The team also signed 20 year old German Tim Beck who played for the Berlin baskets last season. The 20 year old 198cm forrwad will have a license to play for SSV Lok Bernau in the PRO B and for teh Berlin baskets in the Regionaliga.
Source: www.ssv-lok-bernau.de


Jonathan Levy Returns To Germany To Play For The Wurzburg Baskets - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Jonathan Levy (193-G-82, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) will start his seventh season as a professional basketball player and for some reason has found most happiness in Austria (Two seasons) and in Germany (four years) as he will start his fifth season there taking a step back to play in the PRO A joining the Wurzburg Baskets. Levy played two seasons for Ratiopharm Ulm and two seasons for The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig in the BEKO BBL. Last season, Levy played in Austria for Oberwart Gunners (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 34 games: 15.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 17.9%, FT: 60.0%. 'We would have liked to have gotten Jonathan Levy last season for MBC and now I am so much more happy that we could get him for my new team. He is a great defender and stopper. He uses his whole energy to stop the opponents best scorer. I am sure that with his good attitude, he will play a big role for us. I think that he will build the best guard rotation in one of the best guard rotations in the league with Lee jeka and Ahmad Smith', stated Baskets manager Stephan Frost.

Levy started his basketball career for Cal State-Los Angeles (NCAA2) in 2000 and transfered to Cal.St.-San Bernardino in 2002 and finished there in 2004. In 2004, he came overseas to play professional basketball in Austria for BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers (Austria-A Bundesliga): Stage 1: 22 games: 21.6ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, Blocks-3 (1.2bpg), 2FGP: 51.4%, 3FGP: 36.3%; Stage 2: 14 games: 20.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.9apg, 1.9spg, 1.5bpg, 2FGP: 58.8%, 3FGP: 36.5%. He then played in Germany for Ratiopharm Ulm from 2005-2007. He helped the club reach the BEKO BBL in 2006 and had a very strong statistical season in his first year in the top German league in 2006 averaging 14.9ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 52.5%, 3FGP: 28.1%, FT: 62.4% in 33 games. He then played for The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig from 2007-2009. His best statistical season in Braunschweig was 2007-2008 playing 34 games averaging 10.4ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 54.9%, 3PT: 24.4%, FT: 50.0%.







Source: www.wuerzburg-baskets.de


Ukraine U18 handed Germany U18 their first loss at the Classification Round - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18-Ukraine U18 59:74

Ukraine outscored Germany in the do-or-die game of the Classification Round to remain alive for remaining in Division A of the U18 European Championship. The Ukrainian team produced 74:59 to improve to 2-2 record. Germany suffered their first loss to drop to 3-1.
In case of victory Germany would claim Division A stay for the next year. It was also the last chance for Ukraine and the latter managed to reach the goal. Prokopenko gave Ukraine 7:4, while Klym Artamonov (176-G-93) tied it later at 12:12. He also made it equal at the end of the period for 15:15. Ukraine started the second frame with 7-0 run and Prokopenko nailed three for 22:15. Len scored fro 26:18, while Ney reduced for 30:28. Ukraine won the second stanza 20-18 as Prokopenko closed the half at 35:33. The third quarter became decisive in the game as Ukraine limited Germany to just 8 points. Bobrov made a lay-up at the end of the third frame for 53:40. Lars Wendt (190-G-92) remained Germany alive for 58:47 and Breunig scored for 60:54 Ukrainian team however played better at the very end and finished with 15-point advantage. Klym Artamonov nailed three for the final success.
Klym Artamonov paced all the winners with 25 points and Prokopenko notched 17. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort. Mathis Monninghoff (199-G-92) nailed 13, while Lars Wendt scored 8.

Germany U18: Philipp Neumann 17+10 rebs, Mathis Monninghoff 13, Lars Wendt 8
Ukraine U18: Klym Artamonov 25, Prokopenko 17

Dejan Mijatovic New Assistant Coach And Mauricio Parra New Youth Coach for Alba Berlin - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


In the NBA, it seems like some teams like to work with a second starting five coaching staff while in the BEKO BBL, it isnt as much, as Alba Berlin work with three assistant coaches. Alba Berlin have named Dejan Mijatovic (agency: Beo Basket ) as new assistant coach who will replace Umberto Badioli who didnt get a contract extension. Mijatovic will join the coaching staff with Konstantin Lwowsky and Mihajlo Svraka. Last season, Mijatovic was head coach in Poland for Pozan. Alba Berlin chef Luka Pavicevic is confident that the experience of the 41 year old Serb will pay dividends for the 8 time BEKO BBL champion. 'We decided to strengthen our coaching staff. With Dejan Mijatovic (agency: Beo Basket ), we have found a guy who has had much experience with head coaching jobs. He coached for big clubs like OKK Belgrad or Vrsac . He also led the Serb U-18 National team to the gold medal at th 2007 European Championships. He will be in charge with scouting and get assistnace from Mauricio Parra who will also help the youth program', stressed Alba Berlin coach Luka Pavicevic (agency: Beo Basket ) Mijatovic was active as a player from 1986-1998.

Alba Berlin also announced that Mauricio Parra will coach the Alba Berlin youth programa s well as assist with the scouting for Alba Berlin. The 37 year old Parra was born in Zweibruecken, Germany. he grew up in South Africa and Spain. He started his coaching career in 1996 in Austria for St.Polten and became head coach in 2001. He then came to Germany and was assistnat coach for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen until 2008. He had a short stint as coach in Chemnitz. Since 2008, he was head coach of the NBBL team of Bayern Munich as well as assistant coach of the PRO A team.
Source: www.alba-berlin.de


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  GREECE   


Greens land Aleks Maric for the next two years - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos made very important signing for the next season. The Greek powerhouse and former Euroleague champion officially announced arrival of Aleks Maric (211-C-84) for the next two years. The 25-year old center is coming to Athens from Partizan Belgrade, where he spent last season. Maric exploded in Euroleague averaging 14.6 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.2 assists for 18 games. He helped Partizan to reach the Final Four in Paris and was named Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Center of the Year -10. Maric dominated in other competitions as well. He led Partizan to Adriatic league crown with 11.5 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 22 games. In Serbian championship, Partizan defended the title and Maric had 12.1 ppg, plus 6 rpg for 17 games. The Serbian powerhouse grabbed another trophy last season and it was the National Cup.
Aleks Maric arrived to Partizan last summer from Granada. He played 32 games in Spain that season registering 4.6 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Maric is a product of Nebraska University, where he graduated in 2008. In his senior season he collected 15.7 ppg, 10.2 rpg and 1.9 apg for 33 games. In 2006 and 2009 Maric was a member of the Australian National Team. In 2003, he helped U18 Australia to win the U18 World Championship in Greece.

Lithuania ease into semifinal in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Greece U18 84:51
Lithuania became the third semifinalists at the U18 European Championship in Vilnius today. They cruised past Greece to make into Final Four. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) knocked down 19 points to pace the hosts.
The teams traded baskets throughout close first quarter. Lithuania pulled ahead late in the frame posting a 19:16 lead ten minutes into the clash. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-F-92) came up with six points early in the second term to give Lithuania a 26:19 advantage. The hosts used a 9:2 run to build a 35:22 lead midway through the second stanza. Cizauskas capped the half with a lay-up to ensure a 42:26 lead for Lithuania. The hosts continued their dominance in the third quarter. Deividas Pukis (193-G/F-92) clinched a 19-point lead with a jumper late in the stanza. Lithuania built a comfortable 25-point advantage with ten minutes to go. Mavrogianis sparked a 7:0 run from the Hellenes in the final term but it did not help them too much as Lithuania steamrolled to the victory.
Deividas Pukis notched 15 points and 7 rebounds for Lithuania. Zygimantas Skucas (200-F-92) added 12 points in the winning effort. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (205-F-92) accounted for 21 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Sokratis Psaropoulos (191-G-92) netted 9 points in the loss.

Lithuania U18: Dovydas Redikas 19, Deividas Pukis 15, Zygimantas Skucas 12
Greece U18: Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 21, Sokratis Psaropoulos 9


Kalambokis in Ikaros Kallitheas - by George Fragkos
Newly promoted Ikaros Neas Smyrnis has announced Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78, agency: FCM) as their new signing surprising the Greek basketball society. The team of Athens managed to convince the former guard of the Greek National Team, who signed a contract that will keep him at Kallithea for the next two years.

Speaking about this new chapter in his career, Giannis Kalambokis pointed at the fact that the people of the club have great ambition and they want to make Ikaros Neas Smyrnis a strong team:
'I am really satisfied with this. The people here seem to take basketball seriously and they spoke to me with honesty. Their proposal was very good and I am glad to have joined a club that is constantly improving'.

The 32-year-old guard didnt forget his previous club Panionios ON Telecoms Athens:
'I was in Panionios ON Telecoms Athens for three years and I will always remember them. I may not be a member of them anymore, but I wish them the best'.


Greece U16 comes back from Spain - by Eurobasket News
Greece U16 comes back from Spain as the team lost all three games at the International tournament.
In Day 1 Spain U16 overcame Greece U16 78:55. The Spanish outfit started with 20:9 in the opening quarter and never looked behind after. The winners added 21-16 in the second frame and won also two periods in the second frame. Spain produced 19-16 in the third quarter and celebrated the victory in the last stanza 18-14. Albert Homs and Sans stepped up with 12 points each, while Vicedo nailed 9. Brizuela and Diaz followed them with 8 points apiece. Alexandros Mitsialos (202-F-94), Diamantis Slaftsakis (193-G-94) and Dimitrios Agravanis (203-F-94) answered with 10 points each in the losing effort. Kyprianos Maragkos (205-C-94) and Siologkas scored 7 each in defeat.
Turkey U16 celebrated the second victory as they beat Greece U16 66:53. Turkey opened the game with 26-17 and added 17-16 int he second period. Moreover they stun the opponents with 14-9 in the third frame, while Greece won the last frame 11-9. Talat Altunbey (94) exploded with 23 points for the winners and Tayfun Erulku (188-G-94) posted 11. Zafer Sezer Alp nailed 10 and Oguzhan Bayrak had 8 points and 7 rebounds.
France U16 stun Greece U16 76:67 for the second place. Albert Homs was named MVP of the U16 tournament.


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


Kieran Celaire returns to Magixx - by Fred Roggen
Kyran Celaire (201-F) play also his second season in the Netherlands for Magixx playing for Kids Rights in Nijmegen. The 19-year-old forward Celaire of Aruban origin played last season for the Magixx U20 team and was also part of the first team, where he played three games for. Coach Michael Schuurs is pleased that Kyran Celaire returns in Nijmegen. 'We started last season with him and he has made good progress'.

Frank Turner, new point guard Eiffel Towers - by Fred Roggen
Eiffel Towers has a new point guard, Frank Turner (178-G-88, agency: Court Side, college: Canisius) signed a contract for one year. Turner replaces Dean Oliver in the selection of EiffelTowers.
Turner played four years for Canisius Golden Griffins and averaged 16.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game. Frank Turner has had an outstanding college career in the US and is joining EiffelTowers to fulfill his life-long dream of playing professional basketball. The 5'10' guard, who just turn 22, is known for his hard work and his ability to run a team.


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


Boomers down feisty Iran - by Eurobasket News
The Golden Star Australian Boomers have survived against a determined Iran team to record a 69-60 victory and remain undefeated at the Stankovic Continental Cup in China, advancing to the Final of the prestigious tournament.

Playing at the Liugang Gymnasium in Liuzhou against the 21st-ranked team in the world, the Boomers (ranked 11th globally) were troubled by Iran but still improved to a perfect 3-0 record to qualify for the tournaments Final on Sunday night as the highest-ranked team.

Australia will now play Slovenia in the Championship Game at 7:30PM local time (9:30PM AEDT) on Sunday, after the Slovenians defeated China in Friday nights other game to improve to 2-1 for the tournament. Australia defeated Slovenia, 77-63, on Thursday night and will head into the final as the hot favourites to win their second Stankovic Continental Cup in two years.

Patrick Mills again led the Australian scoring effort with a team-high 16 points, while David Andersen (212-C-80) added 13 and Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) 12.

Boomers head coach Brett Brown said his team underestimated the Iranians.

'We came out too complacent, said Brown. Thats something that cannot happen again. There is no margin for error at the World Championships. It was a good lesson to learn for the team.

Youve got to give Iran credit. They forced us to go small. I dont like doing that but we ended the game with four perimeter guys and David Andersen. Their guards hurt us, our bigs got in foul trouble and we were having a difficult time defending them, so we decided to go small. We were lucky to pull away at that stage with some Joe Ingles threes and Patty Mills layups.

Australian veteran forward Matt Nielsen did not play due to a corked left thigh suffered the night before in the Boomers win over Slovenia.

The Stankovic Continental Cup is an integral part of the Boomers preparations for the 2010 FIBA World Championships in Turkey from 28 August to 12 September.

Video highlights of the match can be found at: http://bscup.tom.com/

Action photos can be found at: http://bscup.tom.com/2010-07-30/0PRP/34442142_12.html

The official English-version event website is at: http://bscup.tom.com/english/index.html

RESULT
Australian Boomers 69 defeated Iran 60
Stankovic Continental Cup Game 3
Liugang Gymnasium, Liuzhou, China

Quarter-by-Quarter
1st Quarter AUS 20, SLO 13
2nd Quarter AUS 14, SLO 13
3rd Quarter AUS 18, SLO 23
4th Quarter AUS 17, SLO 11

Top scorers
AUS P. Mills 16, D. Andersen 13, J. Ingles 12
SLO O. Sahakian 16, Bahrami 14, A. Kardoust 10
Courtesy of: http://www.basketball.net.au

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  ITALY   


Scotland topple San Marino, enter Final in Andorra - by Eurobasket News
Scotland U16 - San Marino U16 71:52

Scotland ensured the spot in the championship game at the U16 European Championship in Division C. They held off San Marino in the starting semifinal in Andorra today. Matthew Wilcox scored 18 points to lead Scotland to the victory.
Jack Nicholson opened the scoring for Scotland. San Marino however quickly rebounded and posted a 10:7 lead midway through the frame. Scotland capped the term with an 8:1 run to take a 15:11 lead at the first intermission. Scott Rooney knocked down 6 points in the second period as Scotland boosted the lead. They established a 29:18 buffer at the main break. Matthew Wilcox helped the Scottish team to a 15-point advantage at the start of the third period. Scotland opened a 20-point margin late in the third quarter. San Marino nevertheless tried to stay competitive as they entered the fourth stanza trailing by 12 points 41:53. Jack Nicholson fired 5 points in a row at the beginning of the fourth quarter and Scotland never looked back en route to the win. Nicholson delivered 14 points for the winners. Scott Rooney added 12 points and 9 rebounds for Scotland. Julian Gualtieri accounted for game-high 25 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for San Marino. Lorenzo Guerra provided 16 points in defeat.

Scotland U16: Matthew Wilcox 18, Jack Nicholson 14, Scott Rooney 12
San Marino U16: Julian Gualtieri 25, Lorenzo Guerra 16


Slovenia needed overtime to beat the Italian team at the last game of the U18 European Championship on Friday - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18-Slovenia U18 91:96 OT

Slovenia needed overtime to beat the Italian team at the last game of the U18 European Championship on Friday. Slovenia U18 won 96:91 after massive 20-15 in overtime in the game for 5-8 places.
Marko Pajic (204-F-92) scored the first five points for Slovenia and Omic gave them 11:2. Italy responded with 13-0 run for 16:13 advantage as Fabio Mian (195-F-92) made a jump shot. Klemen Prepelic (190-G-92) closed the first period at 21:19 bringing the last six points for the winners. Slovenia was in front for the whole second period but managed to keep only 37:34 at the halftime. Marco Ceron (192-G-92) tied the game at 37:37 and Fabio Mian gave Italy 44:43. After 21-20 for Slovenia in the third frame they enjoyed 58:54 lead after three quarters. Dimec scored for the biggest 69:59 lead, while Italy managed to tie the game at the end of the fourth period. Marco Ceron made two free throws for 76:76, but Span gave already Slovenia 90:83 midway through overtime. Luka Rupnik (184-G-93) made two free throws for the winners at the end and Marco Ceron closed the game from the perimeter.
Marko Pajic top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 20 rebounds. Luka Rupnik nailed 15, while Klemen Prepelic posted 13. Marco Ceron erupted with 34 points in the losing case. Fabio Fabio Mian netted 14, while Diego Monaldi (185-G-93) scored 13.

Italy U18: Marco Ceron 34, Fabio Mian 14, Diego Monaldi 13
Slovenia U18: Marko Pajic 20+20 rebs, Luka Rupnik 15, Klemen Prepelic 13

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  JAMAICA   


Jamaica beats IVB in overtime - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Places 5-7: JAMAICA - BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 75-68 OT

Jamaica made a first step forward to fifth place in Mayaguez. Jamaicans were better than IVB in overtime and will have to beat Panama in order to win position No.5. On the other side, IVB ended the championship as the last ranked team. Akeem Scott (186-G-83, college: High Point) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds in victory. Ricardo Alliman (201-F/C-87) was the MVP of this game with valuation 29. He spent 41 minutes on court collecting 13 points and 26 rebounds. Michael Rogers (198-G-88) helped with 11 pts. In IVB, Chaurbin Smith (178-G-80, college: Sauk Valley CC) was the leading scorer with 16 points. Kennedy Bass (196-F-81, college: Anderson) (8 rebs), Kilven Samuel (8 rebs) and Avery Percival (198-F-85) (5 rebs) netted 14 points each.
Jamaica opened the game with nice 16-10 lead, but IVB replied in the second frame with 16-19. Still, Jamaica was 3 pts up ahead of the second half. Chaurbin Smith and his teammates created 20-23 in third quarter and teams started from zero again. We saw basket after basket game for the rest of regular time, which ended with 65-65 tie. In extra five minutes Jamaica totally took control on their rivals, what resulted with nice 10-3 for 75-68 OT win.
On Friday, Jamaica will meet Panama.

Jamaica: Akeem Scott 21+7 boards, Ricardo Alliman 13+26 boards, Michael Rogers 11
British Virgin Islands: Chaurbin Smith 16, Kennedy Bass 14+8 boards, Kilven Samuel 14+8 boards, Avery Percival 14+5 boards

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  LATVIA   


VEF Riga add Patrick Sanders - by Eurobasket News
VEF Riga signed the first import player for the upcoming season. The Latvian powerhouse added Patrick Sanders (198-F-85, college: Cal-Irvine) to the roster. The 24-year-old forward spent the previous season in Netherlands. Patrick Sanders played for MyGuide Amsterdam. He notched 14.8 points, 4.6 boards, 2.1 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks per appearance.


Russia cruise past Latvia in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Latvia 89:68

Russia posted a comprehensive win over Latvia in the friendly clash in Moscow. David Blatt team led from start to finish and posted a well-deserved victory at the end. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85) led the effort with 13 points.
The hosts scored 24 points in the opening frame to roll to a 7-point advantage. Latvia adjusted their defense and pulled closer in the second quarter. They outgunned the hosts 17:13 to trail by just three points at halftime. However the third term proved deadly for the visitors. Russia went on a stunning 27:10 rally to clear off. The home team entered the final period enjoying a comfortable 21-point lead. Latvia never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86) accounted for 11 points. Nikita Kurbanov (202-F-86) added 10 points, while Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) nailed 9 for the winners. Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) replied with 13 points for Latvia. Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88) netted 12 points in the loss.
Latvia will tip off their 2011 EuroBasket Qualifying campaign against Montenegro on the road on Monday. Russia will travel to Cyprus to take part at the international tournament on August 6-8.

Russia: Vitaly Fridzon 13, Alexey Zhukanenko 11, Nikita Kurbanov 10
Latvia: Janis Strelnieks 13, Rihards Kuksiks 12


Latvia march past Croatia into semis - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Croatia U18 78:56

Latvia reached the semifinal stage of the U18 European Championship. They fired past Croatia in the quarterfinal battle today. Davis Bertans (200-F-92) led balanced effort with 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Latvia will now take on Russia in the semis. Croatia will play versus France in the classification games for the 5th-8th place.
Edmunds Dukulis (201-C-92, agency: Players Group) and Davis Bertans teamed up for nine points in a row as Latvia posted a 21:11 lead late in the starting quarter. Latvia ensured a 23:17 advantage at the first break. Vecvagars opened the second term with a three-pointer as Latvia stretched the gap. Back-to-back three-pointers from Vecvagars and Janis Timma (198-F-92) gave Latvia a 40:26 advantage midway through the second quarter. The Baltic team entered the second half up by 15 points 47:32. Latvia tipped off the third term with six points in a row to boost the lead. They rallied confidently posting a 60:41 lead into the fourth quarter. Boris Barac (204-F-92) notched five points in a row to drag Croatia within 15 points early in the fourth stanza. But Latvia quickly restored a safe cushion and drove to the victory at the end.
Janis Timma came up with 16 points for Latvia. Edmunds Dukulis added 14 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. Boris Barac replied with 15 points and 10 caroms for Croatia. Roko Rogic (187-G-92) nailed 12 points in the loss.

Latvia U18: Davis Bertans 17+10 boards, Janis Timma 16, Edmunds Dukulis 14+10 boards
Croatia U18: Boris Barac 15+10 boards, Roko Rogic 12


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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuania ease into semifinal in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Greece U18 84:51
Lithuania became the third semifinalists at the U18 European Championship in Vilnius today. They cruised past Greece to make into Final Four. Dovydas Redikas (193-G-92) knocked down 19 points to pace the hosts.
The teams traded baskets throughout close first quarter. Lithuania pulled ahead late in the frame posting a 19:16 lead ten minutes into the clash. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-F-92) came up with six points early in the second term to give Lithuania a 26:19 advantage. The hosts used a 9:2 run to build a 35:22 lead midway through the second stanza. Cizauskas capped the half with a lay-up to ensure a 42:26 lead for Lithuania. The hosts continued their dominance in the third quarter. Deividas Pukis (193-G/F-92) clinched a 19-point lead with a jumper late in the stanza. Lithuania built a comfortable 25-point advantage with ten minutes to go. Mavrogianis sparked a 7:0 run from the Hellenes in the final term but it did not help them too much as Lithuania steamrolled to the victory.
Deividas Pukis notched 15 points and 7 rebounds for Lithuania. Zygimantas Skucas (200-F-92) added 12 points in the winning effort. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (205-F-92) accounted for 21 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Sokratis Psaropoulos (191-G-92) netted 9 points in the loss.

Lithuania U18: Dovydas Redikas 19, Deividas Pukis 15, Zygimantas Skucas 12
Greece U18: Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 21, Sokratis Psaropoulos 9


Lietuvos Rytas inks Petras Balocka - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas improved its frontcourt for the upcoming season by inking Petras Balocka (203-C-86). The Lithuanian power forward signed a two-year deal on Thursday.
Petras Balocka arrived to Rytas from University of Hawaii, where he graduated few months ago. In his senior season Balocka collected 7.9 ppg, 8 rpg and 1.8 apg for 28 games. He transferred to Hawaii from East Tennessee State University in 2008. In his first year with Hawaii he collected 8.7 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 1.5 apg. With East Tennessee he had 1.8 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 13 games on season 2006/07.

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  MEXICO   


Mineros sweep Madereros to claim their first title - by Carlos Chapa
Meeting with the mission of gathering a team that supports local talent, while developing young players and with valuable help from two great foreigners, team Mineros de Fresnillo won the first edition of the CIBANE circuit, beating Madereros de Durango with a score of 93-81, and therefore sweeping the series with 3 straight wins.

From the opening tip one could figure out that the main purpose of Madereros was to slow down guard Glenn Stokes, who averaged 38 points in the first two games of the finals, coach Jesus Quintero appointed Nicholas Jones to perform a full court press on Stokes, the performance from Nick Jones was impressive, limiting the offense generated by Stokes; the problem now was to stop the dominance set by Jermaine Johnson inside the paint, in the first period he had 8 points.

The second quarter worked out differently, Jones was benched after having 8 points and the Glenn Stokes show started, the point guard from American University could not be stopped by the defense, his quickness helped him make two three-point shots, record important assists when he precisely found teammates Jose de Jesus Ortiz and Sergio Escobar open, and complete all his layups efficiently; all this factors contributed to set a 44-35 score.

Having the crowd involved in the game could not help Madereros de Durango, their defense scrambled in the mid third quarter allowing Mineros to increase their lead and please the more than 50 (loud) fans that traveled from the city of Fresnillo to Durango's Auditorio del Pueblo to watch their favorite team show a great display of basketball.

A scary situation happened in the third quarter, when Sandrell Spann had a 'somersault-like' fall, he was paralyzed for a few minutes and then taken to the hospital with the help of the team doctor and some teammates to rule out the possibility of an injury; according to the front office of Madereros de Durango, nothing serious happened.

In the final quarter, Victor 'Fredy' Chavez had two straight three point shots that made local fans think in the possibility of having a comeback, Nick Jones continued shooting well and kept the score 92-76, however, to put an exclamation point on his brilliant night, Glenn Stokes found Sergio Escobar with a flashy connection to end the game.

The championship trophy was handed by the President of the league Harold Valenzuela, who directed some words at the fans, the winning team and to the runner-up.

The leading scorers from Durango were Nicholas Jones with 23 points, 'Fredy' Chavez with 13 units and Erick Hare with 11; for Mineros, Jermaine Johnson and Sergio Escobar finished with 18 points each, Glenn Stokes had 15, Gerardo Arroyos ended with 12 and Marcos Dorado and Jesus Ortiz Barron recorded 10 each.


CAC Games: Mexico outsmarts Dominican Republic in the Semis - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Semifinals: DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - MEXICO 82-85

Mexico handed the first loss to Dominicans advancing to Big Final in Mayaguez. There, Mexico will take on powerful Puerto Rico. Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) was the leading player in victory with 19 points and 5 rebounds. Jovan Harris (191-G/F-81, college: USF) helped with 13, while Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, college: Fresno St.) and Omar Quintero (183-G-81, agency: DR. Carlos Sifuentes, college: S.Nazarene) added 12 points and 5 rebounds each. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) shined in defeat with 25 points and 11 boards. Cristian Arias (191-G-81) had 14 points and 5 boards. Dominicans will meet ISV for the Bronze.
Mexicans made quick 10-15 lead at the beginning, but were able to keep just 22-24 for the rest of Q1. Orlando Mendez-Valdez and his teammates were better in the second frame as well. This time they drained 24 points, while limiting Dominicans to 17 for 39-48 lead at the halftime. Dominicans replied after the breather making 20-15 in Q3 and everything was open again. In very exciting finish Mexicans were focused and they managed to end this game with 82-85 and to reach the Big Final.
Friday is the last day of the competition. Gold: Mexico - Puerto Rico; Bronze: Dominican Republic - ISV.

Dominican Republic: Jack Michael Martinez 25+11 boards, Cristian Arias 14+5 boards
Mexico: Orlando Mendez-Valdez 19+5 boards, Jovan Harris 13, Hector Hernandez 12+5 boards, Omar Quintero 12+5 boards

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  MONTENEGRO   


Gaz Metan Medias brings in Ivan Ivanovic - by Eurobasket News
Gaz Metan Medias announced signing of Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) on a one-year deal. The Montenegrin power forward is coming to Romania from Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo. He appeared 7 times in Adriatic league averaging 9.7 points and 4.6 rebounds. Ivanovic struggled with injury which he suffered in November last year and missed couple of months.
Ivan Ivanovic joined Bosna ASA BHT in 2008. In his first season with the club Ivanovic shined with 14.7 ppg, 4 rp and 1.4 apg for 24 games in Adriatic league. He helped the team to win the National Cup in Bosnia and was named MVP. From 2005 to 2008 Ivan Ivanovic played for Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad. In their last season he had 13.5 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 24 Adriatic league games. In Serbian Superleague he added 11.1 ppg, 3 rpg and 1.7 apg in 14 games. In the past, Ivanovic also was a member of Lovcen Cetinje.
In 2008, Ivan Ivanovic was a member of the Montenegrin National Team. He also played for the Serbia and Montenegro University National Team in 2005.
Gaz Metan Medias reached the Semifinals last season in Romania. There, Asesoft Ploiesti eliminated them with 3-0.

Bosnia finally beats Montenegro - by Eurobasket News
Friendly: Bosnia and Herzegovina - Montenegro 80-76

Bosnia has finally managed to beat Montenegro in a friendly match. After suffering three losses, Bosnian players were finally able to record the win in second friendly duel in Sarajevo. The game started off as a closely contested matchup with teams trading basket for basket. After initial 10 minutes of play it was Montenegro who was up 16-17. Than in the second period Bosnian players went on a scoring blitz as they simply could not miss. In a high scoring quarter they were able to build 12 point lead with a series of runs. So at the halftime break the score stood at 50-38. Second quarter proved to be decisive, as Montenegrin players could not recover from this deficit in the third period. They slowly melted away the deficit but still it was Bosnian players who were in control. In the final period, Bosnia was able to counter every attempt by Montenegrin players to make a comeback. In the end they managed to prevail to record 80-76 win.
Five players reached double digits for Bosnia with Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90) leading the way with 16 points. He was closely followed by Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) and Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) who added 14 points apiece. Feliks Kojadinovic (197-G-79, agency: BeoExcell) and Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) were also good as they have finished the game with 11 points each. For Montenegro, Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) led the way with 19 points. Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points, while Milos Borisov (201-F-85) chipped in 15.

Bosnia: Nihad Djedovic 16, Henry Domercant 14, Edin Bavcic 14, Feliks Kojadinovic 11, Kenan Bajramovic 11
Montenegro: Nikola Pekovic 19, Goran Jeretin 16, Milos Borisov 15

Vladimir Golubovic signs with Banvit - by Eurobasket News
Vladimir Golubovic (213-C-86) is set to continue his career in Turkey. The Montenegrin center has agreed to a one-year deal with Turkish outfit Banvit. Golubovic spent last season as member of Olimpija Ljubljana and Caja Laboral, with whom he has won the ACB title. He is expected to provide toughness and rebounding under the basket for Banvit. He is expected to join his new squad when he returns from preparations with Montenegro NT.
Vladimir Golubovic is a product of BC Vojvodina youth system. He made his senior debut during 2003-2004 season. In next 5 seasons with the club, Golubovic has developed in one of the best centers in the league. In 2007, his least year with the club, Golubovic played in 26 Adriatic league matches and has posted averages of 13.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. After attending NBA Summer League in 2008, Golubovic signed a deal with Olimpija Ljubljana. In his first season with the club, he has averaged 13.4 points and 7.6 rebounds in 17 league games. He has helped the team win both National title and Cup while he was voted All-Slovenian League Center of the Year. Last season, Golubovic started of as member of Olimpija where he played in 21 Adriatic league games and has averaged 8.0 points and 4.8 rebounds. He has won another National Cup with them. In February 2010, he was signed by Spanish outfit Caja Laboral where he played in 16 league matches and has averaged 2.0 points and 1.3 rebounds. With Caja, Golubovic has won ACB League title. Golubovic is a regular member of Montenegro National Team.

Montenegro beats Bosnia in a friendly 86-81 - by Eurobasket News
Friendly: Montenegro - Bosnia and Herzegovina 86- 81

One more time Montenegro NT was able to beat Bosnia in a friendly game. Teams squared off in Sarajevo and this time the game definitely had more intense than previous as several minor incidents occurred during the match. Even with tempers flaring, it was Montenegro who had more composure on their way to 86-81 win. It was Montenegro who opened the game better, taking the initial lead. After 10 minutes of play the score stood at 20-16. In the second period, teams spent most of the time trading basket for basket. Bosnians managed to cut the deficit by 2 points by the halftime. Teams went for HT break with scoreboard showing 42-40 Montenegro lead. After that, Montenegrin players increased intensity again. They managed to make a run which gave them their biggest lead of the match. Game entered final period with Montenegro holding 67-60 lead. In the final 10 minutes, Bosnia players tried to cut the deficit and to make a comeback. However, their opponents showed composure and were able to routinely close the game out for the final score 86-81.
Once again Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) led Montenegro with 21 points after he dominated in the paint. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points, while Omar Cook (186-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) chipped in 14 points of his own. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) and Sead Sehovic (201-C/F-89) also reached double digits, finishing the game with 11 and 10 points respectively. On the other side, Bosnia was led by Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) who had 16 points. Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) followed with 15, while Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) added 14 points.

Montenegro: Nikola Pekovic 21, Vladimir Dasic 16, Omar Cook 14, Vladimir Dragicevic 11, Sead Sehovic 10
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Edin Bavcic 16, Kenan Bajramovic 15, Henry Domercant 14

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  NBA   


Kings hire Otis Hughley as assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
The Sacramento Kings Head Coach Paul Westphal today announced an addition to his coaching staff, reaching an agreement with Otis Hughley to join the team as an assistant coach.

Otis has a wealth of experience working with young players and is ready to jump to the NBA, said Westphal. Were very excited to add him to our staff to replace Bryan Gates.

Its an exciting time, Hughley said. Im looking forward to being with an organization thats proven and thats exhibited class. Im really looking forward to working with Coach Westphal and his staff.

Hughley had coached at LeFlore High School in Mobile, Ala. for seven years (2004-2010), guiding the Rattlers to six straight regional appearances and a 6A state title in 2007. While at LeFlore, he coached current Kings center Demarcus Cousins. Before coaching at LeFlore, Hughley was an assistant coach at several universities, including Wright State, Liberty, and Southern. Hughleys experience also includes coaching for the leagues NBA China program and working over 10 years at Pete Newells Big Man Camp.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Hairston receives release from Spurs - by Eurobasket News
With an opportunity to make guaranteed money for two seasons with the Italian Leagues defending champion, Spurs swingman Malik Hairston (6'6''-G-87, college: Oregon) asked the team to release him from the final, non-guaranteed season of his contract.

Having signed free-agent swingman Gary Neal to a three-year contract last week, the Spurs on Thursday complied with the request.

We valued Malik and had invested a lot in him, but this is an excellent opportunity for him and we were happy to honor his request, said Spurs general manager R.C. Buford.

Hairston must clear NBA waivers before he can sign a two-year deal with Montepaschi Siena, winner of the past four Italian League titles.

Acquired on draft night 2008 in a swap of second-round picks with the Phoenix Suns the Spurs sent the draft rights to point guard Goran Dragic to Phoenix Hairston appeared in 62 Spurs games over the past two seasons. He split most of his time between the Spurs, where he averaged 2.4 points a game, and the clubs NBA Development League team in Austin, where he averaged 24.9 points.

Weve enjoyed having Malik in our organization, Buford said. He is a hard worker, a talented basketball player and an outstanding young man.

The Spurs have 14 players under contract for the 2010-11 season, but only 11 with fully guaranteed contracts.

Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

Hawks re-sign backup center Jason Collins - by Eurobasket News
Jason Collins (6'10''-C-78, college: Stanford), who saw little action at the end of Atlanta's bench under Mike Woodson last season, is returning as a backup center for the Hawks under new coach Larry Drew.

The Hawks re-signed Collins on Thursday.

Collins appeared in only 24 games last season, scoring 16 points and grabbing 14 rebounds while averaging only 4.7 minutes.

Drew says the 7-foot Collins, a nine-year veteran, gives the team inside depth and a veteran presence in the locker room.

Collins previously played with New Jersey, Memphis and Minnesota. He has career averages of 4.1 points and 4.2 rebounds. His scoring averages have declined in five straight seasons.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

Toronto Raptors trade for Aussie centre David Andersen - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors added Australian big man David Andersen (7'0''-C-80) in a trade with the Houston Rockets.

The 6ft 11in centre began his professional career at the Wollongong Hawks before moving to Virtus Bologna in 1999. After 10 years in Europe, including spells at CSKA Moscow and FC Barcelona, Andersen was snapped up by the Rockets last season.

The 30-year-old, a decent three-point shooter and strong rebounder, scored 5.8 points per game last season for the Rockets but with star centre Yao Ming set to return after a year injured on the sidelines, Houston traded Andersen to the Raptors for a second-round pick.

Elsewhere the Miami Heat re-signed power forward Shavlik Randolph and the Los Angeles Clippers re-signed the sharp-shooting small forward Rasual Butler.

Courtesy of www.mirror.co.uk

Boston Celtics sign Von Wafer to a one-year contract - by Eurobasket News
The Boston Celtics have signed Von Wafer (6'5''-G-85, college: Florida St.) to a one-year contract, according to sources close to the situation. The deal will be fully guaranteed and worth the veteran's minimum.

The Celtics had spent the past week looking for a guard to replace Tony Allen. Eddie House, Roger Mason, and Jarvis Hayes were mentioned as options, but the team ultimately went with Wafer because of his ability to score off of the bench.

Wafer had also received offers from the Cleveland Cavaliers, who he worked out for on Tuesday, and several teams overseas before deciding to join the Celtics. Prior to a stint with Olympiacos in Greece, Wafer last averaged 9.7 points per game for the Houston Rockets in 2008.

Courtesy of www.hoopsworld.com


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  NCAA1   


Lowe has alma mater poised for breakout - by Rick Ross
Courtesy of SI

Sidney Lowe has his best recruiting class,
which may wind up being as much a curse as it
is a blessing if N.C. State doesn't make the NCAA Tournament.
The Wolfpack signed guards Ryan Harrow and Lorenzo Brown
both Atlanta-area natives -- in the early signing period,
but they didn't land C.J. Leslie until late April.

Leslie, a 6-foot-7 power forward from Raleigh, N.C.
committed to NC State as sophomore, but Leslie
a high school teammate of John Wall
backed off from the Wolfpack to consider Kentucky.

Lowe kept on Leslie and eventually added the final
piece to a top-five class. The signing class will
team with All-ACC second-team forward Tracy Smith to give Lowe
(20-44 in the ACC) his best chance to reach the
NCAA tournament since he arrived in Raleigh.
If Lowe can't lead NC State to the tournament with this crew,
his days at his alma mater are numbered.


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  POLAND   


Serbia became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18-Poland U18 75:57

Serbia became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship. The defending champions rolled over Poland U18 75:57 in the last Quarterfinal clash.
Gujanicic gave the defending champions 2:0 and Dumic made a jump shot for 10:5. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) tied the game at 14:14, while Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-G-92) closed the first period at 22:18. Michal Michalak (194-G-93) tied it all again at 26:26 and Michal Michalak gave Poland 33:32 advantage. Bogic Vujosevic (189-G-92) sent the teams to the lockers for 38:35. In the third period Serbia started to increase the lead and reached 47:35 as Bogic Vujosevic made a jump shot with 8 minutes in the frame. Bogdan Bogdanovic kept the double-digit lead at 53:43 and Siladi scored for 55:46. Bogic Vujosevic closed the quarter at 57:47 as Serbia won the frame with 19-12. Petkovic brought plus 18 in the game and Dumic made it 72:55. Bogdan Bogdanovic nailed three at the very end for the final success.
Bogdan Bogdanovic paced all the winners with 14 points. Petkovic netted 13, while Bogic Vujosevic scored 12. Mateusz Ponitka ended up with 20 points in the losing effort as Poland will play for the 5th-8th places. Michal Michalak nailed 11, while Tomasz Gielo (204-F-93) added 10. Serbia will face now Lithuania that became the third semifinalists at the U18 European Championship in Vilnius today. They cruised past Greece to make into Final Four.

Serbia U18: Bogdan Bogdanovic 14, Petkovic 13, Bogic Vujosevic 12
Poland U18: Mateusz Ponitka 20, Michal Michalak 11, Tomasz Gielo 10

News around PLK - by Eurobasket News
PGE Turow Zgorzelec landed Ivan Zigeranovic (212-C-84, agency: BeoExcell). The 25-year-old centre spent the previous season in Gaz Metan Medias in Romania. Ivan Zigeranovic tallied 11.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game in the Romanian league. In Balkan league the centre notched 12.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance.
Paul Miller (208-C/F-82, college: Wichita St.) is coming back to Anwil Wloclawek. The 27-year-old centre played for the Polish team back in 2008/09 season. Last season Paul Miller moved to Russia to join Triumph Lyubertsy. He averaged 7.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.2 steals per EuroCup game. In Russian Superleague his stats read 9.6 points and 4.0 boards. Paul Miller also played for Polpak Swiecie and Polpharma in Poland.
In the meantime Polpharma Starogard Gdansk inked a deal with Deonta Vaughn (185-G-86). The 23-year-old guard signed his first pro contract. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati. Deonta Vaughn tallied 11.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game in his senior season.


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  PUERTO RICO   


Puerto Rico to play for the Gold - by Luis Ramirez
Puerto Rico defeated the Virgin Islands 89-69 to go against Mexico for the Centro American Gold.

Puerto Rico National squad returned to the court on Thursday night after a couple of days of rest. The team had two easy outings beating, Mexico and Jamaica prior to tonights match. The first game of the PR squad saw Carlos Arroyo get suspended for 1 game as he and Omar Quintero of the Mexican squad went at each other in the late stages of their match. In Arroyos absence, Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) shined scoring 27 points in the win against the Jamaica team.

The next opponent was the U.S. Virgin Islands. The fans came to life as local star Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) walked up into the court to take his practice shots. The crowd had come to see their favorite players.
Earlier in the day the Mexican team defeated the Dominican team by a score of 85-82.

In the 1st quarter, Puerto Rico opened up with, Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern), Carlos Arroyo, Daniel Santiago, Carmelo Lee and Ricky Sanchez.
Barea opened up the scoring with a layup; he then scored another layup to put PR up 4-0 with 8:14 to go in the quarter. It was Barea against the VI as he scored again at will this time from long distance and with another fast break basket, it was a 9-0 run for the PR squad. The VI immediately called for a time out. The VI finally scored with 7:20 left in the quarter, the score was 9-2 at that point. The VI had a run of their own and with 5:33 had cut the lead to 3 points 9-6. With 4:24 left in the quarter, Puerto Rico held a 1 point lead, 12-11. After a lull in scoring it was Barea once again from long distance to put the score 16-11 with 2:47 left in the quarter. Puerto Rico got a 3 pointer from Carlos Arroyo but the VI answered back and with 54 seconds to go it was Puerto Rico leading by 4 points, 21-17.
In the 2nd quarter, VI opened with a basket but PR immediately answered back with one of their own.
With 7:12 left in the quarter, the score was 30-23, Puerto Rico leading by 7 points. Peavy scored from long range to put Puerto Rico up by 14 points 37-23 with 6:03 to go in the half. It was VI with another run to put the score 39-30 with 2:34 left. Puerto Rico used their speed in the last couple of minutes to simply overpower the VI; the score was 45-32 with 42 seconds of play. The half ended with Puerto Rico in the lead by 16 points, 48-32.
The leaders during this first half were Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) with 14 points and Angel Vasallo with 13 points for Puerto Rico. For the Virgin Islands, both Walter Hodge and Jason Edwin had scored 9 points.
In the 3rd quarter, VI opened up with a 7 point run to cut the lead to single digits, 48-39. Puerto Rico called for a time out with 8:03 on the clock. A double foul was called on Ja Ja Richards and Danny Santiago as they came out of the time out. The VI applied pressure but Ricky Sanchez made a 3pointer to put up the first points in the quarter for the PR squad. Seconds later Richards committed his 4th team fouls and was sent to the bench for VI.
Puerto Rico looked more determined and again spread their lead to 15 points, 56-41 with 5:13 to go in the quarter. With 2:42 left the score was 60-48. Arroyo tried to make some fancy passes on two occasions and both resulted in turnovers for the PR squad, with 2:00 left in the quarter. The quarter ended with Puerto Rico up by 10 points, 63-53.
In the 4th quarter, Puerto Rico immediately took command of the game using their speed and penetration to the basket. The score was 72-56 with 7:59 left in the game. With 7:24 left, Puerto Rico head coach Manolo Cintron, took both Carlos Arroyo and Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) to the bench to give them a needed rest, Filiberto Rivera and Christian Dalmau came in to the game.
With 4:12 left in the game Nathan Peavy slammed dunk to put the score 81-60 and the crowd was roaring, enthusiasm was so great that even some of the players made the wave with the crowd. Puerto Rico seemed to lose some focus on the game as the VI made consecutive baskets but by then it was too little too late for the VI. Puerto Rico was going for the Gold.

For Puerto Rico, Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) scored 19 points while Angel Vasallo scored 17 points.

For Virgin Islands, Jerome Gumbs socred 16 points followed by Walter Hodges with 14 points.


Puerto Rico advances to Big Final of CAC Games - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Semifinals: PUERTO RICO - U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS 89-72

Puerto Rico advanced to Big Final in Mayaguez. The host of this event outplayed ISV 89-72 and will meet Mexico in the battle for Gold. ISV will play against Dominican Republic for third place. Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) shined for the winners with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Angel Vasallo (196-G/F-86, college: Virginia Tech) and Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Miami (OH)) scored 17 and 16 points respectively. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: Florida Intern.) helped his team with 14 pts. In ISV, Jerome Gumbs (194-F-82, college: USF) delivered 16 points. Walter Hodge (183-G-86, college: Florida) (5 as) and Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81, college: Kent St.) netted 14 and 12 pts.
Except of third, Puerto Rico won all other quarters in this game. They started with 21-17 in Q1 and continued with impressive 27-15 for the next ten minutes. It means that Jose Juan Barea and his teammates were 48-32 up at the halftime and were looking great. ISV improved after the breather and managed to cut the margin to 10 pts before the last frame. That was all from them as Puerto Ricans shined in the last ten minutes (26-19) for 89-72 victory and a spot for the Big Final in Mayaguez.
Friday is the last day of the competition.

Puerto Rico: Jose Juan Barea 19+5 boards+7 as, Angel Vasallo 17, Nathan Peavy 16, Carlos Arroyo 14
U.S. Virgin Islands: Jerome Gumbs 16, Walter Hodge 14+5 as, Jason Edwin 12

Puerto Rico Takes the Gold - by Luis Ramirez
Puerto Rico defeated Mexico to capture the Gold at the Centro American games being held at Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

The crowds started arriving very early to see the PR National team go for the gold. With as much as 3 hours before game time the Mayaguez Arena was jammed packed. Local fans had great anticipation in seeing how the rematch with Mexico would turnout. If any additional incentive were necessary , there was always the run in between playmakers, Carlos Arroyo and Omar Quintero who were both ejected when these two teams last met a couple of days ago.

The starting lineup for the Puerto Rico team was, Danny Santiago, Carlos Arroyo, Carmelo Lee, Ricky Sanchez and Jose Juan Barea.

In the 1st quarter, Danny Santiago opened the scoring for Puerto Rico with a dunk in the opening seconds of the game. Jose Juan Barea followed up with a lay up to put the score 4-0 with 8:06 left in the quarter. Puerto Ricos defense made it difficult for Mexico to score in the opening minutes, but Mexico was able to score with 7:40 on the clock for their first basket. With 6:45 Barea made a 3 pointer but Mexico answered back with a 3 pointer of their own. With 6:08 the score was tied at 9 points. Mexico took the lead with a layup to put the score 11-9 with 5:40 on the clock. Danny Santiago committed his 2nd foul early in the quarter and was sent to the bench. With 4:41 left in the quarter it was Mexico leading by 5 points 14-9. On two consecutive occasions Mexico looked to dish the ball to the outside perimeter and scored 3 pointers on both occasions. Another 3 pointer by Mexico and the score was 20-11 with 3:17 on the clock. Puerto Rico called an urgent time out. Puerto Rico was able to deliver a 3 pointer coming out of the time out to cut the lead to 6 points 20-14 with 2:20 left. Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Miami (OH)) brought the house down when with just seconds on the clock, was able to dunk to put Puerto Rico in the lead by one 21-20 as the quarter came to an end.

In the 2nd quarter, Mexico opened with a 3 pointer to reclaim the lead, 23-21, Renaldo Balkman tied the game and seconds later it was Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Miami (OH)) once again making a layup to put Puerto Rico once again in the lead 26-23. Balkman made the Arena explode as he went up for a dunk. Another break away seconds later and it was Balkman once again going for a dunk, the score was 32-23 as Mexico immediately called for a time out. With 6:13 it was Puerto Rico leading by 9 points. Play had to be stopped with 5:46 on the clock as one of the baskets fixtures came loose and the officials had to halt the action. Play resumed and Puerto Rico did not seem affected by the short layoff, Christian Dalmau fired a bomb and scored to put the score 39-27 with 2:30 left in the half. The half ended 42-29 with Puerto Rico well in control of the 1st half.

In the 3rd quarter, Puerto Rico opened up flat and Mexico scored 4 points in a row. Arroyo broke the ice for Puerto Rico with a layup; the score was 44-33 with 7:35 in the quarter. With the game 48-37, Mexico started playing aggressively and would not let Puerto Rico score an easy basket. With 3:29 left in the quarter it was Puerto Rico leading by 13, 52-39. The quarter ended 56-47 with PR in the lead.

Just before the start of the 4th quarter, the crowd came alive once again as over the loudspeakers it was announced that Carmelo Anthony was present watching the game. Puerto Rico opened up with a fast break to start the 4th quarter. With 8:11 left in the game the score was 60-50 with PR still in the lead. Mexico made a 3 pointer with 7:10 on the clock to cut the lead to 7 points, 62-55. Just when Mexico was feeling it, it was Carmelo Lee with a basket to bring Puerto Rico up by 10 points 66-55 with 5:19 left. Puerto Rico started pulling away as Carlos Arroyo drained a 3 pointer to put the score 72-58 with 4:00 minutes left in the game. Mexico pulled within 2 points, 79-77 with 4 seconds left in the game and that would be the closest they would get. Jose Juan Barea secured the win with 2 free throws. The final score was 82-77.

For Puerto Rico, Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Miami (OH)) and Carlos Arroyo both scored 16 points, while Renaldo Balkman captured a total of 16 rebounds.

For Mexico, Jovan Harris, scored 25 points, while Orlando Mendez scored 16 points .


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  ROMANIA   


Gaz Metan Medias brings in Ivan Ivanovic - by Eurobasket News
Gaz Metan Medias announced signing of Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) on a one-year deal. The Montenegrin power forward is coming to Romania from Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo. He appeared 7 times in Adriatic league averaging 9.7 points and 4.6 rebounds. Ivanovic struggled with injury which he suffered in November last year and missed couple of months.
Ivan Ivanovic joined Bosna ASA BHT in 2008. In his first season with the club Ivanovic shined with 14.7 ppg, 4 rp and 1.4 apg for 24 games in Adriatic league. He helped the team to win the National Cup in Bosnia and was named MVP. From 2005 to 2008 Ivan Ivanovic played for Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad. In their last season he had 13.5 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 24 Adriatic league games. In Serbian Superleague he added 11.1 ppg, 3 rpg and 1.7 apg in 14 games. In the past, Ivanovic also was a member of Lovcen Cetinje.
In 2008, Ivan Ivanovic was a member of the Montenegrin National Team. He also played for the Serbia and Montenegro University National Team in 2005.
Gaz Metan Medias reached the Semifinals last season in Romania. There, Asesoft Ploiesti eliminated them with 3-0.

Targu Mures adds bug guy Aleksandar Mladenovic - by Eurobasket News
Targu Mures continues with signings this summer. Their latest addition is Serbian center Aleksandar Mladenovic (207-F/C-84, agency: BeoExcell). The 25-year old player is coming to Targu Mures from Ergonom Nis, where he spent last two years. Mladenovic shined last season in Serbian league with 17.8 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 1 spg and 1.2 bpg for 25 games. He ended the contest as third best scorer and second rebounder. However, his team finished as No.10 and was far away from the second stage.
Season 2008/09 Aleksandar Mladenovic also spent with Ergonom. At that time he had 16.4 ppg and 5 rpg. He is a product of Ergonom, where he started as teenager in 2002. He left them in March of 2007 and joined Mega Ishrana. Next season Mladenovic played for Swisslion Takovo Vrsac averaging 8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 11 games in Serbian A League. They advanced to second stage, where Mladenovics number decreased to 2.8 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 11 games.
Targu Mures ended last season in Romania as No.8. They failed in the Playoff Quarterfinals against Mobitelco Cluj. Few days ago, the team signed contract with Jason Forte (196-F-81, college: S.Mississippi).

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  RUSSIA   


Russia tame France in thriller - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18 - France U18 73:68

Russia became the first semifinalists of the U18 European Championship. They held off France in a dramatic overtime clash. Vladislav Trushkin (200-F-93) knocked down 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to pace the effort.
Vladislav Trushkin and Alexander Varnakov (185-G-92) ensure a quick start for Russia. However France capped the period on a 6:2 run to draw things level at 12. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second quarter. Hugo Invernizzi (196-F/G-93) crowned the first half with a lay-up to ensure a 30:26 lead for France. Karasev tipped off the second half with five points in a row as Russia retained the advantage. The Russian team rallied to a 42:38 lead with ten minutes to go. Diacono and Hugo Invernizzi returned the lead back to Les Bleus. Russia first knotted things up and then Goldyrev ensured a 59:54 lead for Russia with just over two minutes to go. France reacted with five points in a row to level things up at 59. Later Gobert missed both free throws, while Ceci's three-pointer rimmed off as the teams went into extra period. Gobert opened the scoring in overtime however Russia answered with ten consecutive points to pull ahead for good.
Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) netted 15 points for Russia. Alexander Varnakov added 13 points in the winning effort. Hugo Invernizzi accounted for 20 points for France. Mathis Keita (192-G-92) had 12 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds in the loss.

Russia U18: Vladislav Trushkin 22, Dmitry Kulagin 15, Alexander Varnakov 13
France U18: Hugo Invernizzi 20, Mathis Keita 12


Russia cruise past Latvia in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Latvia 89:68

Russia posted a comprehensive win over Latvia in the friendly clash in Moscow. David Blatt team led from start to finish and posted a well-deserved victory at the end. Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85) led the effort with 13 points.
The hosts scored 24 points in the opening frame to roll to a 7-point advantage. Latvia adjusted their defense and pulled closer in the second quarter. They outgunned the hosts 17:13 to trail by just three points at halftime. However the third term proved deadly for the visitors. Russia went on a stunning 27:10 rally to clear off. The home team entered the final period enjoying a comfortable 21-point lead. Latvia never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86) accounted for 11 points. Nikita Kurbanov (202-F-86) added 10 points, while Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) nailed 9 for the winners. Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) replied with 13 points for Latvia. Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88) netted 12 points in the loss.
Latvia will tip off their 2011 EuroBasket Qualifying campaign against Montenegro on the road on Monday. Russia will travel to Cyprus to take part at the international tournament on August 6-8.

Russia: Vitaly Fridzon 13, Alexey Zhukanenko 11, Nikita Kurbanov 10
Latvia: Janis Strelnieks 13, Rihards Kuksiks 12


Jermaine Anderson to play in Russia - by Eurobasket News
Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham) will play in Russia in the upcoming season. The 27-year-old guard signed a deal with Triumph. Last season Jermaine Anderson played for Cedevita in Croatia. He averaged 9.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game in the Croatian league. In EuroChallenge his stats read 13.2 points, 3.5 boards and 3.3 assists per appearance. In Adriatic League Jermaine Anderson stepped up with 12.3 points, 4.4 assists and 3.6 boards. The guard played for the Canadian National Team at the FIBA Americas Championship in Puerto Rico in 2009. He notched 8.7 points and 4.2 assists per game in San Juan.


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  SCOTLAND   


Scotland topple San Marino, enter Final in Andorra - by Eurobasket News
Scotland U16 - San Marino U16 71:52

Scotland ensured the spot in the championship game at the U16 European Championship in Division C. They held off San Marino in the starting semifinal in Andorra today. Matthew Wilcox scored 18 points to lead Scotland to the victory.
Jack Nicholson opened the scoring for Scotland. San Marino however quickly rebounded and posted a 10:7 lead midway through the frame. Scotland capped the term with an 8:1 run to take a 15:11 lead at the first intermission. Scott Rooney knocked down 6 points in the second period as Scotland boosted the lead. They established a 29:18 buffer at the main break. Matthew Wilcox helped the Scottish team to a 15-point advantage at the start of the third period. Scotland opened a 20-point margin late in the third quarter. San Marino nevertheless tried to stay competitive as they entered the fourth stanza trailing by 12 points 41:53. Jack Nicholson fired 5 points in a row at the beginning of the fourth quarter and Scotland never looked back en route to the win. Nicholson delivered 14 points for the winners. Scott Rooney added 12 points and 9 rebounds for Scotland. Julian Gualtieri accounted for game-high 25 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for San Marino. Lorenzo Guerra provided 16 points in defeat.

Scotland U16: Matthew Wilcox 18, Jack Nicholson 14, Scott Rooney 12
San Marino U16: Julian Gualtieri 25, Lorenzo Guerra 16


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  SERBIA   


Targu Mures adds bug guy Aleksandar Mladenovic - by Eurobasket News
Targu Mures continues with signings this summer. Their latest addition is Serbian center Aleksandar Mladenovic (207-F/C-84, agency: BeoExcell). The 25-year old player is coming to Targu Mures from Ergonom Nis, where he spent last two years. Mladenovic shined last season in Serbian league with 17.8 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 1 spg and 1.2 bpg for 25 games. He ended the contest as third best scorer and second rebounder. However, his team finished as No.10 and was far away from the second stage.
Season 2008/09 Aleksandar Mladenovic also spent with Ergonom. At that time he had 16.4 ppg and 5 rpg. He is a product of Ergonom, where he started as teenager in 2002. He left them in March of 2007 and joined Mega Ishrana. Next season Mladenovic played for Swisslion Takovo Vrsac averaging 8 ppg and 3.8 rpg for 11 games in Serbian A League. They advanced to second stage, where Mladenovics number decreased to 2.8 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 11 games.
Targu Mures ended last season in Romania as No.8. They failed in the Playoff Quarterfinals against Mobitelco Cluj. Few days ago, the team signed contract with Jason Forte (196-F-81, college: S.Mississippi).

Serbia became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18-Poland U18 75:57

Serbia became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship. The defending champions rolled over Poland U18 75:57 in the last Quarterfinal clash.
Gujanicic gave the defending champions 2:0 and Dumic made a jump shot for 10:5. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) tied the game at 14:14, while Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-G-92) closed the first period at 22:18. Michal Michalak (194-G-93) tied it all again at 26:26 and Michal Michalak gave Poland 33:32 advantage. Bogic Vujosevic (189-G-92) sent the teams to the lockers for 38:35. In the third period Serbia started to increase the lead and reached 47:35 as Bogic Vujosevic made a jump shot with 8 minutes in the frame. Bogdan Bogdanovic kept the double-digit lead at 53:43 and Siladi scored for 55:46. Bogic Vujosevic closed the quarter at 57:47 as Serbia won the frame with 19-12. Petkovic brought plus 18 in the game and Dumic made it 72:55. Bogdan Bogdanovic nailed three at the very end for the final success.
Bogdan Bogdanovic paced all the winners with 14 points. Petkovic netted 13, while Bogic Vujosevic scored 12. Mateusz Ponitka ended up with 20 points in the losing effort as Poland will play for the 5th-8th places. Michal Michalak nailed 11, while Tomasz Gielo (204-F-93) added 10. Serbia will face now Lithuania that became the third semifinalists at the U18 European Championship in Vilnius today. They cruised past Greece to make into Final Four.

Serbia U18: Bogdan Bogdanovic 14, Petkovic 13, Bogic Vujosevic 12
Poland U18: Mateusz Ponitka 20, Michal Michalak 11, Tomasz Gielo 10

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  SLOVENIA   


Dragic's triple-double too much for China - by Zeljko Zule
Goran Dragic (194-G-86, agency: Interperformances) recoreded a triple-double, 15 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, to lead Slovenia past China, 75-71, on Day 3 of Bora Stankovic Cup.
SLOVENIA 75 (22+22+18+13): *Slokar 2, Krusic DNP, *Udrih 13, *Becirovic 13, Klobucar 12, *G.Dragic 15, Zupan 3, Rizvic 4, Z.Dragic, Vidmar 4, *Brezec 10, Muric DNP.
CHINA 71 (18+23+14+16): Ding Jinhui 3, *Liu Wei 15, *Wang Shipeng 8, *Sun Yue 4, Li Xiaoxu 5, *Yi Jianlian 11, *Su Wei, Wang Zhizhi 17, Zhou Peng 8, Yu Shulong DNP, Jin Lipeng, Guo Ailun DNP:


Slovenia needed overtime to beat the Italian team at the last game of the U18 European Championship on Friday - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18-Slovenia U18 91:96 OT

Slovenia needed overtime to beat the Italian team at the last game of the U18 European Championship on Friday. Slovenia U18 won 96:91 after massive 20-15 in overtime in the game for 5-8 places.
Marko Pajic (204-F-92) scored the first five points for Slovenia and Omic gave them 11:2. Italy responded with 13-0 run for 16:13 advantage as Fabio Mian (195-F-92) made a jump shot. Klemen Prepelic (190-G-92) closed the first period at 21:19 bringing the last six points for the winners. Slovenia was in front for the whole second period but managed to keep only 37:34 at the halftime. Marco Ceron (192-G-92) tied the game at 37:37 and Fabio Mian gave Italy 44:43. After 21-20 for Slovenia in the third frame they enjoyed 58:54 lead after three quarters. Dimec scored for the biggest 69:59 lead, while Italy managed to tie the game at the end of the fourth period. Marco Ceron made two free throws for 76:76, but Span gave already Slovenia 90:83 midway through overtime. Luka Rupnik (184-G-93) made two free throws for the winners at the end and Marco Ceron closed the game from the perimeter.
Marko Pajic top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 20 rebounds. Luka Rupnik nailed 15, while Klemen Prepelic posted 13. Marco Ceron erupted with 34 points in the losing case. Fabio Fabio Mian netted 14, while Diego Monaldi (185-G-93) scored 13.

Italy U18: Marco Ceron 34, Fabio Mian 14, Diego Monaldi 13
Slovenia U18: Marko Pajic 20+20 rebs, Luka Rupnik 15, Klemen Prepelic 13

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  SOUTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Brazil and Argentina to fight for the Gold - by Eurobasket News
SEMIFINALS

Brazil - Venezuela 79-67
Brazil stretched its winning streak in Mayaguez and at the same time advanced to the Big Final. There Brazilians will meet Argentina. Murilo da Rosa (210-C/F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) top-scored in this game with 25 points and he pulled down 7 rebounds beside that. Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82, agency: Paris Global Sports) had 22 points for Venezuela, who will play against Uruguay for third place.

Uruguay - Argentina 73-79
Argentina outplayed Uruguay 73-79 advancing to Big Final in Neiva. Leonardo Mainoldi (204-F-85) (7 rebs) and Luis Cequeira (180-G-85) (5 rebs) stepped up for the winners with 17 points each. Uruguay got 24 points from Mauricio Aguiar (199-F-83, agency: Players Group) and will play for the Bronze at this event.

Places 5-8
Colombia - Chile 78-71
Colombia was too strong for Chile 78-71 and will meet Paraguay for the fifth place in Neiva. Stalin Ortiz (191-G-81, college: Valparaiso) shined for the winners with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Patricio Briones (213-C-72, college: Dade CC) delivered 17 points and grabbed 7 rebs in defeat.

Ecuador - Paraguay 45-89
Paraguay had an easy job against Ecuador and will play vs Colombia for the fifth place. Jose Fabio (198-F-77) came up with 19 points and 13 rebounds for Paraguay. In the loosing squad, Jose Vicente Diaz (196-F-75) had 11 points.

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  SPAIN   


Blancos de Rueda Valladolid signs Nacho Martin - by Mariano Galindo
Blancos de Rueda Valladolid has officially announced the signing to a one-year contract of Jose Ignacio Martin (205-F-83). The 27-years old power-forward played last season in Adecco Gold with CAI Zaragoza. Martin and his new coach, Porfirio Fisac, will work together again, after being in Guipuzkoa Basket Club, where both got the ACB place after 2005-06 season. Now, Martin comes back to the ACB. Previously he played for CB Granada.

Turkey snap three-game losing skid in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Spain U18 66:60
Turkey snapped their three-game losing skid at the U18 European Championship in Lithuania. They toppled Spain to earn the right to fight for the ninth overall position at the tournament. Turkey will next face the winner of Italy vs. Slovenia clash. Safak Edge (188-G-92) came up with 17 points, 5 boards and 3 assists for Turkey.
Turkey marked their ambitions at the start of the game. They opened it with a 12:0 run to take the lead. Spain came back to live late in the quarter to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark 11:16. Turkey began the second frame strongly and grabbed an 11-point advantage. Turkey maintained the lead and ensured a 9-point buffer at halftime 28:37. Eroglu and Safak Edge helped Turkey to a 16-point lead early in the third quarter. The Turkish team headed into the fourth period up by 12 points but Spain managed to spark the intrigue. Joan Creus (185-G-92) triggered a 7:0 run that put Spain within five points with 40 seconds to go. Korkmaz knocked down a free throw in the dying seconds, while Servera and Joan Creus missed from downtown to give the win away to Turkey.
Muhammed Baygul (191-G-92) netted 15 points for Turkey. Burak Yildizli (200-F-94) added 12 points and 7 rebounds in the victory. Alejandro Barrera (199-F/C-92) had 14 points for Spain. Joan Tomas (201-F-92) netted 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U18: Safak Edge 17, Muhammed Baygul 15, Burak Yildizli 12
Spain U18: Alejandro Barrera 14, Joan Tomas 9


James Augustine bolsters Power Electronics Valencia - by JC Ruiz
Power Electronics Valencia has officially announced the signing to a one-year contract of James Augustine (208-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois). The 26-year-old center spent the previous two season in ACB league. James Augustine played for C.B. Gran Canaria 2014 averaging 9 points, 7 rebounds and 1 assists per ACB league game. In EuroCup the american-center tallied 9.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 0.9 assists per appearance. Earlier James Augustine had spells for Orlando Magic in NBA, and Anaheim Arsenal in NBDL.


Gran Canaria 2014 signs Judson Wallace - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria 2014 announced another new player for the next season. The Spanish outfit has signed a deal with American Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Princeton). The 27-year old power forward is coming to the island from Benetton Treviso, where he played last season. He appeared 30 times in SerieA averaging 9.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists. Benetton ended as No.8 in regular season and later faced with elimination in the Quarterfinals. The team also competed in EuroCup, where Wallace added 9.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 1.5 apg. He joined Benetton in 2008 having slightly better numbers than this season.
Before Benetton Treviso, Judson Wallace spent one year with Capo dOrlando. He shined in SerieA with 14.5 ppg, 10.4 rpg and 1.9 apg. Wallace ended championship as the leading rebounder. From 2005 to 2007 Wallace was a member of the German team Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, where he also was once of the leading players.
Meanwhile, Louis Bullock (186-G-76, college: Michigan) and Real Madrid officially parted ways. The veteran guard has reached an agreement with the Whites to terminate his contract, which was valid until the end of 2010/11 season. According to some sources, Bullock already has offers from Cajasol and Maccabi Tel-Aviv.

Monaco post first win in Andorra, finish seventh - by Eurobasket News
Monaco U16 - Gibraltar U16 49:36

Monaco recorded the first win at the U16 European Championship in Division C. They wrapped up their campaign in Andorra with victory over Gibraltar. Daniel Pieper knocked down 13 points to pace Monaco as they occupied the seventh overall position.
Monaco opened the game with a 15:1 run to clear off. They recorded an 18:4 lead ten minutes into the game. Gibraltar pulled within eight minutes midway through the second term. But Monaco struck back and posted a 29:16 lead at the interval. Gibraltar worked hard to deny the deficit in the third term. Bado helped the team to narrow the distance to just four points 29:33 late in the quarter. But Monaco capped the period with six points in a row to earn a 39:29 lead. Monaco stretched the gap to 15 points at the start of the fourth term and never looked back en route to the win.
Jules Ba produced 11 points and 12 rebounds for Monaco. Manuel Robinaud had 10 points in the victory. Adrian Bado accounted for 11 points and 12 rebounds for Gibraltar. Jensen Balestrino had 13 rebounds and 7 blocks to his tally.

Monaco U16: Daniel Pieper 13, Jules Ba 11+12 boards, Manuel Robinaud 10
Gibraltar U16: Adrian Bado 11+12 boards, Thomas Yome 7, James Quigley 7


Albert Homs names MVP of the U16 tournament - by Eurobasket News
Gijon held the International Tournament with 4 teams participating. Turkey won all the games to triumph in it.
In Day 1 Spain U16 overcame Greece U16 78:55. The Spanish outfit started with 20:9 int he opening quarter and never looked behind after. The winners added 21-16 in the second frame and won also two periods in the second frame. Spain produced 19-16 in the third quarter and celebrated the victory in the last stanza 18-14. Albert Homs (197-F-94) and Agusti Sans Valls (95) stepped up with 12 points each, while Vicedo nailed 9. Dario Brizuela (94) and Diaz followed them with 8 points apiece. Alexandros Mitsialos (202-F-94), Slaftsakis and Agravanis answered with 10 points each in the losing effort. Maragkos and Siologkas scored 7 each in defeat.
Turkey U16 overcame France U16 71:65 in the start.
In Day 2 Spain U16 rolled over France U16 53:46. Turkey U16 celebrated the second victory as they beat Greece U16 66:53. Turkey opened the game with 26-17 and added 17-16 int he second period. Moreover they stun the opponents with 14-9 in the third frame, while Greece won the last frame 11-9. Talat Alp Altunbey exploded with 23 points for the winners and Tayfun Erulku (188-G-94) posted 11. Zafer Sezer Alp nailed 10 and Oguzhan Bayrak had 8 points and 7 rebounds.
In Day 3 Turkey U16 triumphed with 58:48 win over Spain U16. The latter won the opening quarter 18-17, but Turkey needed 18-13 in the second frame to take the lead at the halftime. In the defensive third quarter Turkey grabbed 12-5 score, while Spain won the last quarter 12-11. Burak Haciismail top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Tayfun Erulku netted 13. Zafer Sezer Alp scored 9, while Kenan Sipahi (189-G-95) and Efekan Cosar added 6 each.
France U16 stun Greece U16 76:67 for the second place.

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  SWEDEN   


Bulgaria surprise Sweden in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U18 - Sweden U18 73:70

Bulgaria posted the first win at the classification round of the U18 European Championship in Lithuania. They toppled Sweden in Group G today. Bulgaria thus improved at 1-3 record, dropping the Scandinavians to 2-2. Dimitar Dimitrov (203-F-93) accounted for 20 points to pace Bulgaria.
Dimitar Dimitrov scored 7 points in the opening frame as Bulgaria surged ahead. They posted a 15:12 lead at the first intermission. Sirakov, Simeonov and Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93) drained triples to ensure a 25:14 lead midway through the second term. However Sweden used a 12:1 run late in the half to take a 32:31 lead. The lead changed hands throughout the third stanza. Tencho Tenchev capped it with three free throws to give Bulgaria a 52:48 lead. Magarity and Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) drew things level at the start of the fourth period but Bulgaria immediately replied with a 10:2 spurt. Sweden trailed by only one point 67:68 with 42 seconds remaining however Dimitar Dimitrov and Dafinov helped Bulgaria to a 4-point lead and they hung on to win the game.
Tencho Tenchev accounted for 18 points and 8 rebounds for Bulgaria. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) netted 11 points in the victory. Marcus Eriksson (196-G-93) replied with 21 points for Sweden. Jonathan Person notched 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the loss.

Bulgaria U18: Dimitar Dimitrov 20, Tencho Tenchev 18, Pavlin Ivanov 11
Sweden U18: Marcus Eriksson 21, Jonathan Person 14


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  TAIWAN   


Straits Cup: TB beats Fujian in OT - by Chris Wang
Chen Shih-Nian (181-G-84) scored 10 of Taiwan Beer's 12 points in the overtime as TB beat Fujian SBS 92-88 Friday in the 2010 Straits Cup invitational tournament. Lin Chih-chieh had 4 three-pointers in the 4th period for TB, which led by as many as 12 points earlier in the game.

The fifth edition of a cross-Taiwan Strait tournament is being held in Taiwan with four teams participating. The four teams are: Taiwan Beer, Fujian SBS Xunxin from Chinese League CBA, Hong Kong champion Nam Wah and Macau Fukien basketball team. The tourney is played at Taipei Municiple Arena and National Yilan University Stadium.
Hong Kong's Nam Wah routed Macau Fukien basketball team 104-56 Friday.

Taiwan's final roster for FIBA Asia Stankovic Cup - by Chris Wang
20 years-old forward Chou Po-chen was added to replace Chen Tsu-wei, who has to skip the tournament due to personal matters.

Taiwan is scheduled to meet Japan, Kazakhstan, Iraq and Iran in its Group A preliminary games from Aug. 7-11.

The 10-team tournament will be held in Beiruit, Lebanon from Aug. 7-15.

Po., Name, Ht., Age
G Lee Hsueh-lin, Yulon, 175cm, 26
G Chen Shih-nian, Taiwan Beer, 180cm, 26
G Yang Ching-min, TB, 188cm, 25
G Hong Chih-shan, Pure Youth, 176cm, 24
G Chen Shun-hsiang, BOT, 190cm, 25
G Jet Chang, BYU Hawaii, 190cm, 21
F Chien Chia-hong, Pure Youth, 196cm, 22
F James Mao, Pure Youth, 196cm, 27
F Lu Cheng-ju, Yulon, 192cm, 23
F Cheng jen-wei, KKL, 194cm, 23
F Chou Po-Chen, College, 196cm, 20
C Tseng Wen-ting, Yulon, 204cm, 26
Head Coach: Zhang Xuelei
Assistants: Chiu Tsun-chih, Chiu Chi-yi

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  TURKEY   


Vladimir Golubovic signs with Banvit - by Eurobasket News
Vladimir Golubovic (213-C-86) is set to continue his career in Turkey. The Montenegrin center has agreed to a one-year deal with Turkish outfit Banvit. Golubovic spent last season as member of Olimpija Ljubljana and Caja Laboral, with whom he has won the ACB title. He is expected to provide toughness and rebounding under the basket for Banvit. He is expected to join his new squad when he returns from preparations with Montenegro NT.
Vladimir Golubovic is a product of BC Vojvodina youth system. He made his senior debut during 2003-2004 season. In next 5 seasons with the club, Golubovic has developed in one of the best centers in the league. In 2007, his least year with the club, Golubovic played in 26 Adriatic league matches and has posted averages of 13.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. After attending NBA Summer League in 2008, Golubovic signed a deal with Olimpija Ljubljana. In his first season with the club, he has averaged 13.4 points and 7.6 rebounds in 17 league games. He has helped the team win both National title and Cup while he was voted All-Slovenian League Center of the Year. Last season, Golubovic started of as member of Olimpija where he played in 21 Adriatic league games and has averaged 8.0 points and 4.8 rebounds. He has won another National Cup with them. In February 2010, he was signed by Spanish outfit Caja Laboral where he played in 16 league matches and has averaged 2.0 points and 1.3 rebounds. With Caja, Golubovic has won ACB League title. Golubovic is a regular member of Montenegro National Team.

Turkey snap three-game losing skid in Vilnius - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Spain U18 66:60
Turkey snapped their three-game losing skid at the U18 European Championship in Lithuania. They toppled Spain to earn the right to fight for the ninth overall position at the tournament. Turkey will next face the winner of Italy vs. Slovenia clash. Safak Edge (188-G-92) came up with 17 points, 5 boards and 3 assists for Turkey.
Turkey marked their ambitions at the start of the game. They opened it with a 12:0 run to take the lead. Spain came back to live late in the quarter to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark 11:16. Turkey began the second frame strongly and grabbed an 11-point advantage. Turkey maintained the lead and ensured a 9-point buffer at halftime 28:37. Eroglu and Safak Edge helped Turkey to a 16-point lead early in the third quarter. The Turkish team headed into the fourth period up by 12 points but Spain managed to spark the intrigue. Joan Creus (185-G-92) triggered a 7:0 run that put Spain within five points with 40 seconds to go. Korkmaz knocked down a free throw in the dying seconds, while Servera and Joan Creus missed from downtown to give the win away to Turkey.
Muhammed Baygul (191-G-92) netted 15 points for Turkey. Burak Yildizli (200-F-94) added 12 points and 7 rebounds in the victory. Alejandro Barrera (199-F/C-92) had 14 points for Spain. Joan Tomas (201-F-92) netted 9 points in the loss.

Turkey U18: Safak Edge 17, Muhammed Baygul 15, Burak Yildizli 12
Spain U18: Alejandro Barrera 14, Joan Tomas 9


Turkey U16 won the International Tournament in Gijon - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16 won the International Tournament in Gijon. Turkey U16 overcame France U16 71:65 in the start.
In Day 2 Turkey U16 celebrated the second victory as they beat Greece U16 66:53. Turkey opened the game with 26-17 and added 17-16 in the second period. Moreover they stun the opponents with 14-9 in the third frame, while Greece won the last frame 11-9. Talat Altunbey (94) exploded with 23 points for the winners and Tayfun Erulku (188-G-94) posted 11. Zafer Sezer Alp nailed 10 and Oguzhan Bayrak had 8 points and 7 rebounds.
In Day 3 Turkey U16 triumphed with 58:48 win over Spain U16. The latter won the opening quarter 18-17, but Turkey needed 18-13 in the second frame to take the lead at the halftime. In the defensive third quarter Turkey grabbed 12-5 score, while Spain won the last quarter 12-11. Burak Haciismail top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Tayfun Erulku netted 13. Zafer Sezer Alp scored 9, while Kenan Sipahi (189-G-95) and Efekan Cosar added 6 each. Talat Altunbey was named the best scorer of the tournament.


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Puerto Rico advances to Big Final of CAC Games - by Eurobasket News
CAC Games, Semifinals: PUERTO RICO - U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS 89-72

Puerto Rico advanced to Big Final in Mayaguez. The host of this event outplayed ISV 89-72 and will meet Mexico in the battle for Gold. ISV will play against Dominican Republic for third place. Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, college: Northeastern) shined for the winners with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Angel Vasallo (196-G/F-86, college: Virginia Tech) and Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Miami (OH)) scored 17 and 16 points respectively. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: Florida Intern.) helped his team with 14 pts. In ISV, Jerome Gumbs (194-F-82, college: USF) delivered 16 points. Walter Hodge (183-G-86, college: Florida) (5 as) and Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81, college: Kent St.) netted 14 and 12 pts.
Except of third, Puerto Rico won all other quarters in this game. They started with 21-17 in Q1 and continued with impressive 27-15 for the next ten minutes. It means that Jose Juan Barea and his teammates were 48-32 up at the halftime and were looking great. ISV improved after the breather and managed to cut the margin to 10 pts before the last frame. That was all from them as Puerto Ricans shined in the last ten minutes (26-19) for 89-72 victory and a spot for the Big Final in Mayaguez.
Friday is the last day of the competition.

Puerto Rico: Jose Juan Barea 19+5 boards+7 as, Angel Vasallo 17, Nathan Peavy 16, Carlos Arroyo 14
U.S. Virgin Islands: Jerome Gumbs 16, Walter Hodge 14+5 as, Jason Edwin 12

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


Sasa Vasiljevic joins BC Donetsk - by Eurobasket News
Sasa Vasiljevic (183-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) became the first import player in BC Donetsk. The 31-year-old guard spent the previous season in Greece. He played for Kolossos averaging 11.1 points, 3.6 assists and 2.0 rebounds per game. Earlier Sasa Vasiljevic had stints with Hemofarm, Bosna Sarajevo, AEK Athens and Vive Menorca.


Ukraine U18 handed Germany U18 their first loss at the Classification Round - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18-Ukraine U18 59:74

Ukraine outscored Germany in the do-or-die game of the Classification Round to remain alive for remaining in Division A of the U18 European Championship. The Ukrainian team produced 74:59 to improve to 2-2 record. Germany suffered their first loss to drop to 3-1.
In case of victory Germany would claim Division A stay for the next year. It was also the last chance for Ukraine and the latter managed to reach the goal. Prokopenko gave Ukraine 7:4, while Klym Artamonov (176-G-93) tied it later at 12:12. He also made it equal at the end of the period for 15:15. Ukraine started the second frame with 7-0 run and Prokopenko nailed three for 22:15. Len scored fro 26:18, while Ney reduced for 30:28. Ukraine won the second stanza 20-18 as Prokopenko closed the half at 35:33. The third quarter became decisive in the game as Ukraine limited Germany to just 8 points. Bobrov made a lay-up at the end of the third frame for 53:40. Lars Wendt (190-G-92) remained Germany alive for 58:47 and Breunig scored for 60:54 Ukrainian team however played better at the very end and finished with 15-point advantage. Klym Artamonov nailed three for the final success.
Klym Artamonov paced all the winners with 25 points and Prokopenko notched 17. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds in the losing effort. Mathis Monninghoff (199-G-92) nailed 13, while Lars Wendt scored 8.

Germany U18: Philipp Neumann 17+10 rebs, Mathis Monninghoff 13, Lars Wendt 8
Ukraine U18: Klym Artamonov 25, Prokopenko 17

MBC Mykolaiv re-sign Justin Love - by Eurobasket
MBC Mykolaiv confirmed the signature of 32-year old American guard Justin Love (188-G-78, college: St.Louis). Love played two years ago at BC Odessa (Superleague). Last season while playing in Mykolaiv he averaged 13.0ppg, 4.3rpg and 4.5apg. Love is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in China, France, Germany, Italy and Latvia. It will be his 3rd season in Ukraine and in total 11th year in pro basketball.
By Eurobasket Data Center

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


Raiders Sign England International Guymon - by Andy Webb
The UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have announced the signing of their second senior England International. Point guard Matthew Guymon (193-G-87) has put pen to paper for the Raiders for the 2010/11 season.

Guymon has a rich history of international representative basketball. He has represented England Juniors at the U16 & U18 European championships. He has also made the 2007 & 2008 Great Britain's Mens squads. Most recently, he was selected by Team GB coach Chris Finch for the GB Futures u23 team. Just 2 weeks ago, he was selected for the England team that played in a tournament against Belgium, Luxembourg, Tunisia and Ivory Coast.

The 64, 23 year old is excited about the opportunity of moving to Plymouth. I am really looking forward to playing for the Raiders next year, with best supporters and game day atmosphere in the BBL. I think we have the players and coaches in place to have a great year.

Guymon left England to complete his high school studies in Oklahoma, before enrolling at Oklahoma City University, where he won two NAIA National Championships.

Hes got some great experience under his belt, said Raiders Head Coach, Gavin Love. Matts a young player, a pure point guard and has had success at international level with the England and Team GB squads. He is a pass first point guard, handles the ball well and shoots the ball well from the outside.


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


Larre Borges took a 1-0 lead to win a place for the LUB - by Hector Lopez
Larre Borges, with 28 points by Marcos Cabot (178-G-89), beat Larranaga 76-73 at the beginning for the best of three games to qualify another team for the Uruguayan League 2011. For Larranaga Elgrace Wilborn (203-F-83, agency: Liman Sports, college: W.Kentucky), the only imported player on the game netted 12 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) had 16 points. Waston, the Metro league champion, already won a spot for the 2011 Uruguayan League.



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Women News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Angola1-0
2. Egypt1-0
3. Senegal0-0
4. Tunisia0-1
5. Kenya0-1
Group B
1. Nigeria1-0
2. DRCongo0-0
3. Ivory Coast0-0
4. Mali0-0
5. Mozambique0-1


Day One in Cairo - by Eurobasket News
The 11th Championship of Africa of Nations U18 Women began well and truly on Thursday, July 30th, 2010 in Cairo (Egypt). Nigeria widely beat Mozambique (66 - 48) then Egypt perfectly assumed its status of organizing country by annihilating Kenya (87 - 40). Angola, as for her, assured the main part against Tunisia (55 48).

Day 1 results
Nigeria 66 - 48 Mozambique
Kenya 40 - 87 Egypt
Angola 55 - 48 Tunisia

Day 2 program
16h00: Match A3 - Angola vs Kenya
18h00: Match A4 - Senegal vs Egypt
20h00: Match B3 - Mali vs Nigeria

Courtesy of FIBA Africa

Ivory Coast U18 National Team 2010 - by Kasia
Desire Kouassi OBC Ivory Coast
Djeneba Samake ASEC Ivory Coast
Fanta Dafe ASEC Ivory Coast
Aminata Baradji ASEC Ivory Coast
Faty Ouattara BIAFFRA Ivory Coast
Marie Koffi SOA Ivory Coast
Sockna Traore DCA Ivory Coast
Tuho Camara DCA Ivory Coast
Juste Kouassi Djigui Ivory Coast
Florence Ouattara ABC Ivory Coast
Mamikan N'Dri ABC Ivory Coast
Massita Dembele ABC Ivory Coast
Aicha Koueita ABC Ivory Coast
Karidja Traore CSA Ivory Coast
Yvonne Bognini CSA Ivory Coast

Kouakou N'Dri coach
N'Da Thoms Hilaire coach
Lazare Bouabre Assistant TBC Ermess Ivory Coast


Mali U18 National Team 2010 - by Kasia
Aissata Maiga 92
Aminata Coulibaly
Fatoumata Konate
Rakiatou Maiga
Aminata Dante
Aminata Konate
Farima Toure
Aminata Sissoko
Fatou Coco Diakite
Mariam Konate
Fanta Diakite
Mariam Kone

Amara Traore Head Coach


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  BELARUS - Women  


Belarusian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Karalina Padshyvalava
Padshyvalava
Maryia Filonchyk
Filonchyk
Nadzeya Bohdan
Bohdan
Darya Lipinskaya
Lipinskaya
Aliaksandra Musatava
Musatava
#e#5
4 Valiansina Sivaplias 170-G-92
5 Karalina Padshyvalava 165-G-89 Victoria Belarus
7 Katsiaryna Nialepka 178-G-93 RGUOR Belarus
8 Maryia Filonchyk 189-C-92 Victoria Belarus
9 Nadzeya Bohdan 184-C-93 Victoria Belarus
10 Darya Lipinskaya 178-G-93 Horizon Belarus
11 Krystsina Novikava 183-F-92 Horizon Belarus
12 Natallia Baklaha 172-G-93 Horizon Belarus
13 Aliaksandra Musatava 174-G-92 Victoria Belarus
14 Veranika Yakkanen 180-F-92 Victoria Belarus
15 Maryna Ivashchanka 188-C-93 RGUOR Belarus

Viktoriya Datsun Head Coach Olimpia Belarus
Alaksandr Shymkaviak Assistant


BK Minsk-2006 signed Brooke Queenan - by Timur Tolokh
Lasi season Brooke played in Aris Thessalonikis (Greece)
Born: April 10, 1984 in Abington, Pennsylvania
Daughter of Dorothy Queenan
Full name: QUENNAN Brooke Christine
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Career:
West Chester, PA/West Chester
2005-2006: Boston Coll. (NCAA): 33 games: 15.1ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.6apg, 0.7spg, 0.7bpg, FG: 49.9%
2006: Drafted by New York Liberty (WNBA,2rd (23))
2006 April: New York Liberty (WNBA) summer camp
2006: Connecticut Sun (WNBA): Regular Season: 4 games: 0.5ppg
2006-2007: Aris Holargos (Greece-A1, starting five)
2007-2008: Panionios Athens (Greece-A1, starting five): EuroCup: 10 games: 13.1ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 78.9%; Greek League: 26 games: 15.8ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 85.0%
2008: Chicago Sky (WNBA): 8 games: 0.3ppg
2008-2009: MiZo Pecs 2010 (Hungary-A): Euroleague: 13 games: 6.8ppg, 4.2rpg, FGP: 39.7%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 73.1%; Hungarian League: 11 games: 14.5ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 64.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 73.3%
2009-2010: In Dec.'09 signed at Brooke Queenan (Greece-A1, starting five): 14 games: 16.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 71.0%
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Awards/Achievements:
All-ACC 2nd Team -06
NCAA Sweet 16 -06
WNBA Eastern Conference Regular Season Champion -06
Greek League All-Star Game -07, 08
Greek League Runner-Up -08
Eurobasket.com All-Greek League 1st Team -08
Eurobasket.com Greek League All-Imports Team -08
Euroleague Quarterfinals -09
Hungarian League Semifinals -09
Hungarian League Regular Season Runner-Up -09
Brooke Queenan (188-F-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Boston Coll.)

U18 Belarus too much for U18 Israel - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: BELARUS - ISRAEL 91-41

U18 EuroBasket Division B started on Thursday afternoon. Belarus played against Israel in Day One and registered impressive 91-41 win. These two teams are together with Montenegro and Holland placed to Preliminary Group B. Currently Belarus and Holland share the first place. Aliaksandra Musatava (174-G-92) was the leading player in victory with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Maryna Ivashchanka (188-C-93) had 17 pts and 7 boards, while Darya Lipinskaya (178-G-93) added 13 pts and 6 rebs. In Israel, Chen Weisbort (165-G-93) delivered 12 points. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring.
Belarus dominated in all segments of this game. They started with nice 24-10 in the first quarter and jumped to plus 18 until the half time. Israel was not able to resist and they faced with 27-16 in third frame. There was ten minutes left in the game and question about the winner was already resolved. Despite that fact, Aliaksandra Musatava continued to dominate making 23-2 in the last quarter for 91-41 at the end.
Belarus will meet Holland on Saturday. Israel will try to grab the first win and their rival will be Montenegro.

Belarus: Aliaksandra Musatava 20+6 boards, Maryna Ivashchanka 17+7 boards, Darya Lipinskaya 13+6 boards
Israel: Chen Weisbort 12

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  BELGIUM - Women  


U18 EuroBasket: Russia celebrates in Day One against Belgium - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: RUSSIA - BELGIUM 66-58

Russia had a joyful Day One in Poprad. They celebrated 66-58 win against Belgium for 1-0 in Preliminary Group B (same as Sweden). Yulia Stepanova (188-C-92) came up with 15 points and 7 rebounds in this victory. She reached valuation 19 and grabbed MVP title for this meeting. Svetlana Efimova (187-F-92) had 13 points and 8 rebounds, while Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) added 10 pts and 5 rebs. In the loosing squad, Hanne Mestdagh (179-F-93) collected 13 points and 7 rebs. Ann Schyvens (160-G-93) followed her with 10 points.
Everything started good for Belgium, who opened this game with 5-10 and later 7-13 lead. Hanne Mestdagh and her teammates managed to keep plus six for rest of the Q1, 12-18. Russia players woke up after that and replied with 15-11 in the second frame for 27-29 deficit at the halftime. They took full control on Belgium in third quarter. Russia intensified defense limiting their rivals to 9 pts, while they drained 18 on the other side. When Russia reached 50-38 with 9:21 to go it was clear that the game winner is already known. Belgium was not able to reply and faced with 66-58 defeat in Day One.
In Day Two, Russia will play against Slovenia. Belgium will take on Sweden.

Russia: Yulia Stepanova 15+7 boards, Svetlana Efimova 13+8 boards, Alexandra Stolyar 10+5 boards
Belgium: Hanne Mestdagh 13+7 boards, Ann Schyvens 10

Belgian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Lien Delmulle
Delmulle
Inge Meylemans
Meylemans
Hanne Mestdagh
Mestdagh
Emmanuella Mayombo
Mayombo
Jenny Mayinga
Mayinga
#e#5
4 Ann Schyvens 160-G-93 Sint Kateline Belgium
5 Lien Delmulle 179-F-93 Waregem Belgium
6 Inge Meylemans 168-G-92 Sint Kateline Belgium
7 Sien Devliegher 174-G-93 Ieper Belgium
8 Silke Storme 170-G/F-92
9 Hanne Mestdagh 179-F-93 Ieper Belgium
10 Caroline Bourlioux 182-C-92 Point Chaud Belgium
11 Emmanuella Mayombo 170-G-92
12 Jaleesa Maes 185-C-92
13 Lut De Meyer 180-F-92 Sint Kateline Belgium
14 Laura Van Lembergen 186-C-93 Waregem Belgium
15 Jenny Mayinga 185-C-92 Point Chaud Belgium

Sven Van Camp Head Coach BBC Boom Belgium
Stephane Baczai Assistant R.Spirou M. Belgium


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  BOSNIA - Women  


Bosnia and Herzegovina U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Miljana Dzombeta
Dzombeta
Tijana Buha
Buha
Ema Sosic
Sosic
Marina Dzinic
Dzinic
Nikolina Milic
Milic
#e#5
4 Vesna Lukic 165-G-92 Banovici Bosnia
5 Marica Gajic 175-G-95
6 Miljana Dzombeta 178-G-94 Borac ML-IEFK Bosnia
7 Tijana Buha 175-F-92 Trebinje Bosnia
9 Kristina Skocajic 183-F-94 Trebinje Bosnia
10 Ema Sosic 182-G-93 Zeljeznicar Bosnia
11 Aldina Trumic 200-C-94 Jedinstvo Bosnia
12 Marina Dzinic 189-C-92 Zeljeznicar Bosnia
13 Nikolina Milic 195-C-94 Borac ML-IEFK Bosnia
14 Natasa Tomasovic 186-F-93 Borac ML-IEFK Bosnia
15 Nikolina Dzebo 189-F-95

Milorad Nadazdin Head Coach
Josip Dugandzic Assistant Brotnjo 94 Bosnia


U18 Germany dominates against U18 Bosnia in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: GERMANY - BOSNIA 75-38

Germany demonstrated their power and registered first victory in Timisioara. It was a 75-38 blowout win against Bosnia for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Except of Germany and Bosnia, participants of the same pool are also Denmark and Croatia. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) top-scored in Germany with 14 points (5 as). Christina Schnorr (187-F-92) and Julia Gaudermann (165-G-92) netted 11 points each. In the loosing squad, Marina Dzinic (189-C-92) shined with 15 points and 6 rebounds. She was the only Bosnian player with double-digit in scoring.
Germany won every single quarter in this game and dominated in all segments. Finja Schaake and her teammates drained 22 points in the first ten minutes, while limiting Bosnians to 8. They made 14-7 in the second frame for nice 36-15 lead at the halftime. Nothing has change after the breather, despite Germany slowed down a bit and already had victory in their pocket. Third quarter ended with 16-10 and the last one with 23-13 for the final 75-38 by Germany.
On Saturday, Germany will play against Denmark. Bosnia will take on Croatia.

Germany: Finja Schaake 14+5 as, Christina Schnorr 11, Julia Gaudermann 11
Bosnia: Marina Dzinic 15+6 boards

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  BULGARIA - Women  


U18 Estonia hands 70-46 loss to U18 Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: BULGARIA - ESTONIA 46-70

Estonia was too strong for Bulgaria registering the first win in Timisoara. It was a Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. Estonia and Bulgaria are together with Finland, Scotland and England placed to Preliminary Group C. Maaja Bratka (186-C-92) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 6 rebounds. Nele Laurimaa (179-F-93) (5 rebs) and Rosemary Rits (180-F-92) delivered 16 points each. In Bulgaria, Nora Georgieva (174-F-92) collected 12 points and 5 rebs. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring.
Estonia won every single quarter of this game. They created 13-19 in the first ten minutes and continued with 11-17 in Q2. It means that Estonia was nice 12-points up at the halftime and was looking good. Bulgaria was not able to respond and they faced with minus 20 after the breather. The last quarter ended 11-16 for the final 46-70 victory by Estonia.
On Saturday, Estonia will meet Scotland. Bulgaria will have two days off.

Bulgaria: Nora Georgieva 12+5 boards
Estonia: Maaja Bratka 17+6 boards, Nele Laurimaa 16+5 boards, Rosemary Rits 16

Georgieva heads to Spedizioni Ragusa - by Eurobasket News
Bulgarian Dimana Georgieva (190-C-88) heads to Virtus Eirene Passalacqua Spedizioni Ragusa. In 2008-2009 she appeared for Fortitudo Pomezia (Italy-A2), while the last season played for RomaSistemi So.Se.Pharm Pomezia (Italy-A2, starting five). She is a member of Bulgarian U20 National Team -05-08, Bulgarian U18 National Team -05-06, European Championships U18 -05, Bulgarian National Team -06, 10. In 2008 she participated at the European Championships U20 in Chieti (Italy).

Bulgarian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Nora Georgieva
Georgieva
Nadezhda Spasova
Spasova
Kalina Marinova
Marinova
Hristina Tyutyundzhieva
Tyutyundzhieva
Viktoriya Stoycheva
Stoycheva
#e#5
4 Nora Georgieva 174-F-92
5 Dora Sevova 168-G-93 Slavia Bulgaria
6 Yana Kozhuharova 183-F-93 Cherno More Bulgaria
7 Bisera Peshkova 180-F-93 Barking Abbey United Kingdom
8 Vesela Kovacheva 170-G-92 Slavia Bulgaria
9 Nadezhda Spasova 189-F-93 Cherno More Bulgaria
10 Pamela Decheva 185-F-92 Tony 7 Bulgaria
11 Mariya Svetoslavova 178-F-93
12 Kalina Marinova 180-F/C-92 Cherno More Bulgaria
13 Hristina Tyutyundzhieva 189-C-93
14 Viktoriya Stoycheva 172-G-92
15 Stela Boneva 190-C-93

Stefan Stefanov Head Coach Dunav Bulgaria
Margarita Gecheva Assistant Cherno More Bulgaria


*****************************************************
  CANADA - Women  


Canada steamroll past Sweden in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Sweden 66:39

Canada swept the exhibition series against Sweden. The North American side celebrated a comfortable 66:39 win in the second game of the test series. Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) notched 21 points to pace Canada. Sweden got to the better start. They recorded a 15:12 lead ten minutes into the game. But Canada quickly took over. They limited their European opponents to only 4 points in the second frame. Canada piled up a 25:19 lead at halftime. The hosts went on a 12:0 run at the start of the third quarter to clear off. Canada posted a 15-point advantage at the final break. Canada continued their dominance in the fourth quarter. They outgunned Sweden 23:11 to record a clinical victory at the end.
Jordan Adams (191-F-81, college: N.Mexico) finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Natalie Achonwa (189-F-92) contributed 7 points for the winners. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) answered with 14 points for Sweden. Kadidja Andersson (183-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: Minnesota) accounted for 8 points in the loss.

Canada: Kimberley Smith 21, Jordan Adams 11, Natalie Achonwa 7
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 14, Kadidja Andersson 8


*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Croatian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Katarina Puljic
Puljic
Iva Todoric
Todoric
Marija Rados
Rados
Ema Mestrovic
Mestrovic
Nina Premasunac
Premasunac
#e#5
4 Katarina Puljic 173-G-92
5 Josipa Sesar 180-C-92
6 Sanja Kovacevic 176-C-93
7 Petra Devcic 169-G-93
8 Glorija Sikiric 165-G-95 Zadar Croatia
9 Rahela Mikulic 177-G-92
10 Iva Todoric 174-G-93
11 Marija Rados 181-C-93 Lupa Promot. Croatia
12 Marijana Mamic 181-C-93 Tresnjevka Croatia
13 Ema Mestrovic 168-F-93
14 Nina Premasunac 184-F-92 Biska Pula Croatia
15 Jovana Mandic 174-F-92

Tina Perisa Head Coach Agram Croatia
Dean Nemec Assistant Tresnjevka Croatia


U18 Croatia easily beats U18 Denmark - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: CROATIA - DENMARK 73-52

Croatia cruised past Denmark in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. Ema Mestrovic (168-F-93) was a key player in victory with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Nina Premasunac (184-F-92) scored 16 points and grabbed 8 boards, while Iva Todoric (174-G-93) collected 13 points and 13 rebs. In Denmark, Mathilde Fogelstrom (184-F-93) came up with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Gritt Ryder (177-G-92) also scored 13 pts, but to go with 5 assists. Beside Croatia and Denmark, other participants of Group B are Germany and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Second and last quarter were the crucial ones in this game. Before that, Croatia made 19-16 lead in the first ten minutes. They took full control on Denmark in the second frame taking 43-24 HT lead. Denmark improved after the breather. They made 8-18 in Q3 and the game was close to become interesting again. However, Croatia didnt want that and they blasted Denmark with 22-10 in the last ten minutes finishing this game with comfortable 73-52 win.
In Day Two, Croatia will meet Bosnia. Denmark will play against Germany.

Croatia: Ema Mestrovic 17+12 boards, Nina Premasunac 16+8 boards, Iva Todoric 13+13 boards
Denmark: Mathilde Fogelstrom 13+8 boards, Gritt Ryder 13+5 as

*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Czech Republic U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Karolina Elhotova
Elhotova
Tereza Vyoralova
Vyoralova
Jana Hausknechtova
Hausknechtova
Monika Satoranska
Satoranska
Martina Cepelkova
Cepelkova
#e#5
4 Monika Kusova 164-G-92
5 Barbora Kasparkova 182-C-92 Frisco Sika Czech Republic
6 Karolina Elhotova 182-F-92 VS Praha Czech Republic
7 Michaela Horakova 177-F-92
8 Tereza Vyoralova 175-G-94
9 Barbora Zoubkova 176-G-93
10 Jana Hausknechtova 178-G-92
11 Monika Satoranska 185-C-93
12 Barbora Vechtova 186-C-92
13 Beata Adamcova 172-F-93
14 Tereza Sedlackova 183-F-92 Frisco Sika Czech Republic
15 Martina Cepelkova 183-F-92 Hradec Kralove Czech Republic

Romana Ptackova Head Coach
Vladimira Behalova Assistant


U18 Turkey destroys U18 Czech Republic in Poprad - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: CZECH REPUBLIC - TURKEY 68-86

Turkey demonstrated their power in Day One in Poprad. They registered excellent 68-86 win against Czech Republic to make 1-0 in Preliminary Group D. At the same day, France was better than Ukraine, meaning that Turkey and France now share the first place in this pool. Aysegul Gunay (172-G-92) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Azge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) shined with 21 points and 13 rebounds to grab the MVP title for this game. Nihan Demirkol (172-G-92) helped with 16 points, 9 boards and 5 assists. In defeat, Martina Cepelkova (183-F-92) was good with 21 points. Tereza Vyoralova (175-G-94) scored 11 pts.
Second and third quarter were the crucial ones in this game. Turkey made tiny 18-19 lead in the first ten minutes, but they took full control on their rivals in Q2 to reach 37-44 HT lead. Everything was resolved after the breather. Azge Kavurmacioglu and her teammates exploded offensively once again as they scored 26 points. This time, Turkey intensified defense as well as and Czech Republic was in trouble. They were limited to just 10 points in third quarter and faced with 47-70 deficit with 10 minutes remaining. Of course, last quarter was just the formality and Turkey celebrated comfortable win.
On Friday in Poprad, Turkey will play against France. Czech Republic will meet Ukraine.

Czech Republic: Martina Cepelkova 21, Tereza Vyoralova 11
Turkey: Aysegul Gunay 22, Azge Kavurmacioglu 21+13 boards, Nihan Demirkol 16+9 boards+5 as

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


Danish U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Julie Ravn
Ravn
Nikoline Ostergaard
Ostergaard
Gritt Ryder
Ryder
Marie Blyme
Blyme
Mathilde Fogelstrom
Fogelstrom
#e#5
4 Josefine Vincents 164-G-92
5 Julie Ravn 174-G-93 Horsens Denmark
6 Emilie Fogelstrom 166-G-92 TTT Jun. Latvia
7 Nikoline Ostergaard 179-G-92 Virum Denmark
8 Anna Seilund 172-G-93
9 Hanna Sheikh 180-G-92 Vaerlose Denmark
10 Mikala Damm 177-F-93
11 Gritt Ryder 177-G-92 Horsholm Denmark
12 Tone Heiberg 181-C-92 Falcon Denmark
13 Marie Blyme 173-F-93
14 Rikke Fabricius 183-C-92 Vaerlose Denmark
15 Mathilde Fogelstrom 184-F-93 TTT Jun. Latvia

Tommy Nielsen Head Coach
Mogenh Tygesen coach


U18 Croatia easily beats U18 Denmark - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: CROATIA - DENMARK 73-52

Croatia cruised past Denmark in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. Ema Mestrovic (168-F-93) was a key player in victory with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Nina Premasunac (184-F-92) scored 16 points and grabbed 8 boards, while Iva Todoric (174-G-93) collected 13 points and 13 rebs. In Denmark, Mathilde Fogelstrom (184-F-93) came up with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Gritt Ryder (177-G-92) also scored 13 pts, but to go with 5 assists. Beside Croatia and Denmark, other participants of Group B are Germany and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Second and last quarter were the crucial ones in this game. Before that, Croatia made 19-16 lead in the first ten minutes. They took full control on Denmark in the second frame taking 43-24 HT lead. Denmark improved after the breather. They made 8-18 in Q3 and the game was close to become interesting again. However, Croatia didnt want that and they blasted Denmark with 22-10 in the last ten minutes finishing this game with comfortable 73-52 win.
In Day Two, Croatia will meet Bosnia. Denmark will play against Germany.

Croatia: Ema Mestrovic 17+12 boards, Nina Premasunac 16+8 boards, Iva Todoric 13+13 boards
Denmark: Mathilde Fogelstrom 13+8 boards, Gritt Ryder 13+5 as

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


U18 Estonia hands 70-46 loss to U18 Bulgaria - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: BULGARIA - ESTONIA 46-70

Estonia was too strong for Bulgaria registering the first win in Timisoara. It was a Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. Estonia and Bulgaria are together with Finland, Scotland and England placed to Preliminary Group C. Maaja Bratka (186-C-92) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 6 rebounds. Nele Laurimaa (179-F-93) (5 rebs) and Rosemary Rits (180-F-92) delivered 16 points each. In Bulgaria, Nora Georgieva (174-F-92) collected 12 points and 5 rebs. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring.
Estonia won every single quarter of this game. They created 13-19 in the first ten minutes and continued with 11-17 in Q2. It means that Estonia was nice 12-points up at the halftime and was looking good. Bulgaria was not able to respond and they faced with minus 20 after the breather. The last quarter ended 11-16 for the final 46-70 victory by Estonia.
On Saturday, Estonia will meet Scotland. Bulgaria will have two days off.

Bulgaria: Nora Georgieva 12+5 boards
Estonia: Maaja Bratka 17+6 boards, Nele Laurimaa 16+5 boards, Rosemary Rits 16

Estonian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Nele Laurimaa
Laurimaa
Marii Pilv
Pilv
Maaja Bratka
Bratka
Annika Koster
Koster
Rosemary Rits
Rits
#e#5
4 Berta Murk 176-G-92
5 Kadri Kruusimagi 169-G-92
6 Nele Laurimaa 179-F-93 TLU Estonia
7 Marii Pilv 169-G-92 Audentes Estonia
8 Maaja Bratka 186-C-92 Eclex Tallinn Estonia
9 Maia Bratka 185-F-92
10 Birgit Piibur 160-G-94 Audentes Estonia
11 Janeli Lilleallik 168-G-94
12 Trine Kasemagi 190-C-95
13 Annika Koster 185-F/C-92 TLU Estonia
14 Rosemary Rits 180-F-92 TLU Estonia
15 Greeta Uprus 175-G-94

Janne Rits Head Coach TLU Estonia
Marek Koitla Assistant
Maria Dorbek Assistant


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


Division B: Day One in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Greece - Luxembourg 81-38
Greece opened the U18 EuroBasket Division B in style. They destroyed Luxemburg 81-38 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) was the best ranked player in victory with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (185-F-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds, while Grigoria Pateraki (185-F-93) added 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Sandie Lorsche (160-F-92) had 9 pts and Nadia Marcus (173-F-93) scored one less. Of course, Luxemburg dropped to 0-1. Beside the above mentioned teams, participants of Group A are also Romania, Switzerland and Portugal. Greece dominated from the beginning. In the first ten minutes Artemis Spanou and her teammates made 22-15 lead. Nothing had changed in Q2 and Greece jumped plus 15 at the half time. Luxembourg was not able to resists and the only question was how big difference it will be at the end. Greece made impressive 24-8 in third and 18-8 in the last quarter to finish this game. In Day Two, Greece will meet Switzerland. Luxembourg will have a day-off.

Romania - Switzerland 80-38
The host of U18 EuroBasket Division B had a joyful Day One in Timisoara. Romania had no troubles to beat Switzerland and to reach the first win in Group A. Their leading player was Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Sonia Ursu (175-F-93) shined with 11 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists, while Oana Baluta (184-C-93) added 11 pts and 5 boards. In Switzerland, Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) delivered 11 points. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring. Romania demonstrated their power in the first quarter sending a clear signal that Switzerland will not have a chance. Cristina Bigica and her teammates limited their rivals to just 2 points for ten minutes, while they drained 18 on the other side. Switzerland somehow recovered from this shock, but still faced with 27-11 deficit at the half time. Romania had another great period after the breather. They smashed Switzerland with 29-11 and all after that was just the formality. In Day Two in Timisoara, Romania will meet Portugal. Switzerland will take on Greece.

Group B
Croatia - Denmark 73-52
Croatia cruised past Denmark in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. Ema Mestrovic (168-F-93) was a key player in victory with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Nina Premasunac (184-F-92) scored 16 points and grabbed 8 boards, while Iva Todoric (174-G-93) collected 13 points and 13 rebs. In Denmark, Mathilde Fogelstrom (184-F-93) came up with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Gritt Ryder (177-G-92) also scored 13 pts, but to go with 5 assists. Beside Croatia and Denmark, other participants of Group B are Germany and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Second and last quarter were the crucial ones in this game. Before that, Croatia made 19-16 lead in the first ten minutes. They took full control on Denmark in the second frame taking 43-24 HT lead. Denmark improved after the breather. They made 8-18 in Q3 and the game was close to become interesting again. However, Croatia didn't want that and they blasted Denmark with 22-10 in the last ten minutes finishing this game with comfortable 73-52 win. In Day Two, Croatia will meet Bosnia. Denmark will play against Germany.

Germany - Bosnia 75-38
Germany demonstrated their power and registered first victory in Timisioara. It was a 75-38 blowout win against Bosnia for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Except of Germany and Bosnia, participants of the same pool are also Denmark and Croatia. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) top-scored in Germany with 14 points (5 as). Christina Schnorr (187-F-92) and Julia Gaudermann (165-G-92) netted 11 points each. In the loosing squad, Marina Dzinic (189-C-92) shined with 15 points and 6 rebounds. She was the only Bosnian player with double-digit in scoring. Germany won every single quarter in this game and dominated in all segments. Finja Schaake and her teammates drained 22 points in the first ten minutes, while limiting Bosnians to 8. They made 14-7 in the second frame for nice 36-15 lead at the halftime. Nothing has change after the breather, despite Germany slowed down a bit and already had victory in their pocket. Third quarter ended with 16-10 and the last one with 23-13 for the final 75-38 by Germany. On Saturday, Germany will play against Denmark. Bosnia will take on Croatia.

Group C
Finland - Scotland 91-29
Finland destroyed Scotland in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. It was a game where Finland dominated in all basketball segments and celebrated 91-29 win. Both teams are together with Estonia, Bulgaria and England placed to Preliminary Group C. Evita Iiskola (181-F-93) led Finland in this game with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) (5 rebs) and Laura Juhola (172-F-92) added 12 points each. Laura Saarinen (184-F-92) helped the winners with 10 pts and 8 rebs. Scotland got 9 points and 5 rebs from Erin McGarrachan (182-F-92). Their second scorer was Lauren McKinlay (188-C-92) (5 rebs) with 8 pts. Finland was simply better in all basketball elements against Scotland. They made 23-10 in the first quarter and that was just the beginning. Than something extraordinary happened. Scotland was not able to score any point for the entire second frame. On the other side, Finland drained 20 for 43-13 HT lead. Finland made 10-8 in third and huge 38-8 in the last quarter for 91-29 win at the end. On Saturday, Finland will play against England. Scotland will meet Estonia.

Bulgaria - Estonia 46-70
Estonia was too strong for Bulgaria registering the first win in Timisoara. It was a Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. Estonia and Bulgaria are together with Finland, Scotland and England placed to Preliminary Group C. Maaja Bratka (186-C-92) stepped up for the winners with 17 points and 6 rebounds. Nele Laurimaa (179-F-93) (5 rebs) and Rosemary Rits (180-F-92) delivered 16 points each. In Bulgaria, Nora Georgieva (174-F-92) collected 12 points and 5 rebs. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring. Estonia won every single quarter of this game. They created 13-19 in the first ten minutes and continued with 11-17 in Q2. It means that Estonia was nice 12-points up at the halftime and was looking good. Bulgaria was not able to respond and they faced with minus 20 after the breather. The last quarter ended 11-16 for the final 46-70 victory by Estonia. On Saturday, Estonia will meet Scotland. Bulgaria will have two days off.

Group D
Montenegro - Holland 29-84
Holland exploded in the opening day of U18 EuroBasket, Division B. They demonstrated wonderful performance and blasted Montenegro with huge 29-84. These two teams are together with Belarus and Israel placed to Preliminary Group D. Holland had seven players with double-digits in scoring in this victory. Richelle Van Der Keijl (191-C-93) and Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) had 13 points each and also grabbed 12 and 6 rebounds respectively. Zera Butter (177-G-92) helped Holland with 11 pts. Montenegro did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Jovana Vucevic (181-F-93) was their best player with just 8 pts. Holland was way better team during the all 40 minutes of this game. They started with 9-21 in the first and continued with 4-15 in the second quarter. Montenegro was in big trouble, but they couldn't do anything about that. Holland was even better in the second half. They made 5-34 in third frame and 11-24 in the last one for 29-84 win at the end. On Saturday, Holland will meet Belarus. Montenegro will play against Israel.

Belarus - Israel 91-41
U18 EuroBasket Division B started on Thursday afternoon. Belarus played against Israel in Day One and registered impressive 91-41 win. These two teams are together with Montenegro and Holland placed to Preliminary Group B. Currently Belarus and Holland share the first place. Aliaksandra Musatava (174-G-92) was the leading player in victory with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Maryna Ivashchanka (188-C-93) had 17 pts and 7 boards, while Darya Lipinskaya (178-G-93) added 13 pts and 6 rebs. In Israel, Chen Weisbort (165-G-93) delivered 12 points. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring. Belarus dominated in all segments of this game. They started with nice 24-10 in the first quarter and jumped to plus 18 until the half time. Israel was not able to resist and they faced with 27-16 in third frame. There was ten minutes left in the game and question about the winner was already resolved. Despite that fact, Aliaksandra Musatava continued to dominate making 23-2 in the last quarter for 91-41 at the end. Belarus will meet Holland on Saturday. Israel will try to grab the first win and their rival will be Montenegro.

Div.A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (179-G-92)
  Avg: 37.5
 1. Iagupova, UKR37.5 
 2. Zahui, SWE23.0 
 3. Okockyte, LTU22.5 
 4. Baric, SLO21.0 
 5. Gortnar, SLO19.5 
 6. Zietara, POL17.0 
 7. Colic, SRB17.0 
 8. Cepelkova, CZE16.5 
 9. Stancic, SRB16.5 
 10. Kavurmaciogl., TUR16.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Azge KAVURMACIOGLU
  (187-F-93)
  Avg: 13.5
 1. Kavurmaciogl., TUR13.5 
 2. Zahui, SWE12.5 
 3. Brajkovic, SRB12.5 
 4. Naumenko, UKR12.0 
 5. Zaveckaite, LTU11.5 
 6. Svaryte, LTU11.0 
 7. Barba, FRA11.0 
 8. Gortnar, SLO8.5 
 9. Chek, UKR8.0 
 10. Druskyte, LTU7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Beatrice CARTA
  (170-G-92)
  Avg: 6
 1. Carta, ITA6.0 
 2. Kabengano, SWE5.0 
 3. Baric, SLO4.0 
 4. Iagupova, UKR4.0 
 5. Pasynkova, RUS3.5 
 6. Kuras, POL3.5 
 7. Maksimova, RUS3.5 
 8. Barba, FRA3.5 
 9. Stankovic, SRB3.5 
 10. Gorini, ITA3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Snezana COLIC
  (176-G-92)
  Avg: 7
 1. Colic, SRB7.0 
 2. Carta, ITA6.0 
 3. Iagupova, UKR5.5 
 4. Adamcova, CZE4.0 
 5. Vyoralova, CZE3.5 
 6. Bradnanska, SVK3.5 
 7. Jakovina, SLO3.5 
 8. Cora, TUR3.0 
 9. Druskyte, LTU3.0 
 10. Maksimova, RUS3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Barbora VECHTOVA
  (186-C-92)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Vechtova, CZE3.5 
 2. Zahui, SWE3.0 
 3. Svaryte, LTU2.5 
 4. Lagzdina, LAT2.0 
 5. Iagupova, UKR1.5 
 6. Stepanova, RUS1.5 
 7. Gortnar, SLO1.5 
 8. Kissova, SVK1.5 
 9. Grigalauskyt., LTU1.5 
 10. Hasahya Ngoi., SWE1.5 


Div.B Stats Leaders - by Eurobasket
Points Per Game
 Jessica HURD
  (185-F/C-92)
  Avg: 21
 1. Hurd, ENG21.0 
 2. Spanou, GRE21.0 
 3. Musatava, BLR20.0 
 4. Bigica, ROM19.5 
 5. Domingues, POR19.0 
 6. Mestrovic, CRO17.0 
 7. Ivashchanka, BLR17.0 
 8. Premasunac, CRO16.0 
 9. Dzinic, BIH15.0 
 10. Schaake, GER14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Temitope FAGBENLE
  (191-F-92)
  Avg: 15
 1. Fagbenle, ENG15.0 
 2. Pacheco, POR13.0 
 3. Todoric, CRO13.0 
 4. Ursu, ROM12.5 
 5. Van Der Keij., NED12.0 
 6. Mestrovic, CRO12.0 
 7. Bohdan, BLR11.0 
 8. Saarinen, FIN10.5 
 9. Ostergaard, DEN10.0 
 10. Hamilton, ENG9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Daniela DOMINGUES
  (176-F/G-92)
  Avg: 6
 1. Domingues, POR6.0 
 2. Ryder, DEN5.0 
 3. Bullard, ENG5.0 
 4. Cursaru, ROM4.5 
 5. Iiskola, FIN4.5 
 6. Hamilton, ENG4.0 
 7. Puljic, CRO4.0 
 8. Premasunac, CRO4.0 
 9. Slouka, GRE3.5 
 10. Giampani, GRE3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Chen WEISBORT
  (165-G-93)
  Avg: 5
 1. Weisbort, ISR5.0 
 2. Puljic, CRO5.0 
 3. Kallenberg, NED5.0 
 4. Essenstam, NED5.0 
 5. Todoric, CRO5.0 
 6. Saarinen, FIN4.0 
 7. Koster, EST4.0 
 8. Gaudermann, GER4.0 
 9. Domingues, POR4.0 
 10. Rodgers, ENG4.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Nina PREMASUNAC
  (184-F-92)
  Avg: 3
 1. Premasunac, CRO3.0 
 2. Murray, SCO3.0 
 3. Thompson, ENG3.0 
 4. Blanaru, ROM3.0 
 5. Fagbenle, ENG2.0 
 6. Dzinic, BIH2.0 
 7. McGarrachan, SCO2.0 
 8. Mozes, ISR1.0 
 9. Lazovic, MNT1.0 
 10. Fogelstrom, DEN1.0 


Division A: Day Two in Poprad - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Slovakia - Serbia 67-52
Slovakia outplayed Serbia in Day Two so both teams have 1-1 record now. Martina Kissova (185-F-93) shined for the hosts with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Dijana Stancic (180-G/F-93) top-scored in defeat with 13 points.

Hungary - Spain 40-72
Spain stays perfect after two days in Poprad. They blasted Hungary today getting 14 points and 7 rebounds from Elena Diaz (188-F/C-92). Flora Szabo (186-F-92) had 10 points in loss and her team dropped to 0-2.

Group B
Slovenia - Russia 70-57
Slovenia registered the first win in Poprad and joined Russia on the second place in Group B. Nika Baric (169-G-92) was a key player in victory with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Russia got 16 points from Svetlana Efimova (187-F-92).

Belgium - Sweden 45-56
2-0 for Sweden and 0-2 for Belgium after this game. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) stepped up in victory with 19 points and 15 rebounds. Silke Storme (170-G/F-92) had 9 points in defeat.

Group C
Latvia - Lithuania 51-79
Lithuania improved to 2-0 and will meet Italy for the first place in Group C. They already secured passage for the next stage. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) shined in Lithuania with 20 points. Kristiana Stauere (194-C-92) had 10 points in Latvia, who dropped to 0-2.

Poland - Italy 50-70
Easy one for Italy, who got 14 points and 8 rebounds from Lucia Morsiani (186-C-92). Gaia Gorini (182-G-92) added 13 pts and 7 boards. In defeat, Magdalena Zietara (177-G/F-92) shined with 16 pts. Italy 2-0, Poland 0-2.

Group D
Ukraine - Czech Republic 76-75
Ukraine grabbed 76-75 thriller win against Czech Republic for 1-1 record in Preliminary Group D. Alina Iagupova (179-G-92) exploded with 34 points for Ukraine. Karolina Elhotova (182-F-92) had 20 pts and 7 rebounds for Czech Republic.

Turkey - France 55-57
France jumped to 2-0 after another thriller win in Poprad. They got 12 points from Melanie Devaux (171-G-92). Turkey (1-1) had Nihan Demirkol (172-G-92) with 16 points in this meeting.

Division B: Day Two in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Portugal - Romania 58-64
Romania made a huge step forward to the next stage after they outplayed Portugal for 2-0 in Group A. Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) stepped up for the hosts once again scoring 17 points. Alina Craciun (194-C-93) added 16 points and 14 rebs. In Portugal (0-1), Daniela Domingues (176-F/G-92) collected 19 points, 7 boards and 6 assists.

Switzerland - Greece 41-82
Greece jumped to 2-0 sharing the first place in Group A with Romania. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) paced the winners with 22 points and 8 rebounds. Dorothee Studer (168-G-92) collected 13 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.

Group C
United Kingdom - Bulgaria 67-52
United Kingdom appeared for the first time in Timisoara and they registered the first win. Jessica Hurd (185-F/C-92) came up with 21 points in this victory. Nadezhda Spasova (189-F-93) collected 12 points and 6 boards.

Estonia - Finland 55-56
Thriller win for Finland, who stays alone on top of Group C with 2-0 record. Laura Saarinen (184-F-92) colleted 12 points and 13 rebounds in this game for Finland. Marii Pilv (169-G-92) delivered 13 points in defeat.

W-Standings - Group A
Standings
Group A
1. Spain2-0
2. Serbia1-1
3. Slovakia1-1
4. Hungary0-2
Group B
1. Sweden2-0
2. Russia1-1
3. Slovenia1-1
4. Belgium0-2
Group C
1. Italy2-0
2. Lithuania2-0
3. Poland0-2
4. Latvia0-2
Group D
1. France2-0
2. Turkey1-1
3. Ukraine1-1
4. Czech Repu.0-2


Standings - Division B - by Eurobasket News
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Greece2-0
2. Romania2-0
3. Luxembourg.0-1
4. Portugal0-1
5. Switzerlan.0-2
Group B
1. Croatia1-0
2. Germany1-0
3. Denmark0-1
4. Bosnia0-1
Group C
1. Finland2-0
2. U.Kingdom1-0
3. Estonia1-1
4. Scotland0-1
5. Bulgaria0-2
Group D
1. Belarus1-0
2. Holland1-0
3. Israel0-1
4. Montenegro.0-1


*****************************************************
  FINLAND - Women  


Finnish U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Laura Juhola
Juhola
Anette Juvonen
Juvonen
Evita Iiskola
Iiskola
Laura Saarinen
Saarinen
Annika Holopainen
Holopainen
#e#5
4 Laura Juhola 172-F-92
5 Meral Bedretdin 174-G-93
6 Sophie Weckstrom 167-G-93
7 Anette Juvonen 170-G-93 ToPo Finland
8 Evita Iiskola 181-F-93 Espoo Team Finland
9 Emma Nikula 181-F-92 HoNsU Finland
10 Rita Haukkovaara 176-G-92 Espoo Team Finland
11 Ellen Nurmi 182-F-93
12 Roosa Lukkarinen 174-F-92 Catz Finland
13 Laura Saarinen 184-F-92 Espoo Team Finland
14 Annika Holopainen 186-F/C-93 Espoo Team Finland
15 Sofia Pelander 186-C-92

Miikka Sopanen Head Coach Catz Finland
Jussi Raikka Assistant
Mirka Dettmann Assistant Espoo Team Finland


U18 Finland devastates U18 Scotland in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: FINLAND - SCOTLAND 91-29

Finland destroyed Scotland in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. It was a game where Finland dominated in all basketball segments and celebrated 91-29 win. Both teams are together with Estonia, Bulgaria and England placed to Preliminary Group C. Evita Iiskola (181-F-93) led Finland in this game with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) (5 rebs) and Laura Juhola (172-F-92) added 12 points each. Laura Saarinen (184-F-92) helped the winners with 10 pts and 8 rebs. Scotland got 9 points and 5 rebs from Erin McGarrachan (182-F-92). Their second scorer was Lauren McKinlay (188-C-92) (5 rebs) with 8 pts.
Finland was simply better in all basketball elements against Scotland. They made 23-10 in the first quarter and that was just the beginning. Than something extraordinary happened. Scotland was not able to score any point for the entire second frame. On the other side, Finland drained 20 for 43-13 HT lead. Finland made 10-8 in third and huge 38-8 in the last quarter for 91-29 win at the end.
On Saturday, Finland will play against England. Scotland will meet Estonia.

Finland: Evita Iiskola 14+6 boards+7 as, Annika Holopainen 12+5 boards, Laura Juhola 12, Laura Saarinen 10+8 boards
Scotland: Erin McGarrachan 9+5 boards, Lauren McKinlay 8+5 boards

*****************************************************
  FRANCE - Women  


U18 France grabs 62-61 thriller win against U18 Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: FRANCE - UKRAINE 62-61

In the last game of Day One in Poprad, France grabbed thriller win against Ukraine. It means that France joined Turkey on top of Preliminary Group D with 1-0 record. Ukraine dropped to 0-1 having the same score as Czech Republic. Florine Basque (184-F-92) shined for France with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Eleonore Grossemy (184-F-92) scored 12, while Lucie Barba (185-F-92) added 11 points, 10 boards and 5 assists. In Ukraine, Alina Iagupova (179-G-92) exploded with 41 points and 11 rebounds. She was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 35. Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) had 8 pts and 7 boards in this defeat.
This game is decided in the finish. France entered to last 4:48 with decent 60-53 lead. Alina Iagupova and her teammates didnt give up and they closed the gap to 60-59 with 1:57 to go. Eleonore Grossemy scored on free throw for France and Iagupova replied with two for Ukraine. In the last 90 seconds Ukraine missed three jump shots and two free throws. On the other side, committed two mistakes but they had the last possession in this game. Lucie Barba was sent to the line with 8 seconds to go. She made the first FT and missed the second one. Demchenko tried for 2 at the buzzer, but she missed and France grabbed 62-61 win.
In Day Two in Poprad, France will meet Turkey. Ukraine will play against Czech Republic.

France: Florine Basque 17+5 boards, Eleonore Grossemy 12, Lucie Barba 11+10 boards+5 as
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 41+11 boards, Anna Kiriyenko 8+7 boards

French U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Sabrine Bouzenna
Bouzenna
Helena Akmouche
Akmouche
Lucie Barba
Barba
Florine Basque
Basque
Eleonore Grossemy
Grossemy
#e#5
4 Maissa Radjati 170-G-92 Landes France
5 Sabrine Bouzenna 169-G-93 CFBB France
6 Baleta Mukoko 165-G-92
7 Margaux Galliou-Loko 184-F-93 Bourges France
8 Melanie Devaux 171-G-92 COB Calais France
9 Helena Akmouche 174-G-92 CFBB France
10 Johanna Joseph 185-F-92 CFBB France
11 Lucie Barba 185-F-92
12 Florine Basque 184-F-92 Nantes France
13 Eleonore Grossemy 184-F-92 Charleville France
14 Awa Diallo 192-C-92 Bourges France
15 Christelle Diallo 193-C-93 CFBB France

Gregory Halin Head Coach CFBB France
Alban Le Bigot Assistant
Vincent Bourdeau Assistant


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


German U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Julia Gaudermann
Gaudermann
Finja Schaake
Schaake
Laura Hebecker
Hebecker
Christina Schnorr
Schnorr
Sonja Greinacher
Greinacher
#e#5
4 Mary Mihalyi 162-C-94 Chemnitz Germany
5 Julia Gaudermann 165-G-92 Marburg Germany
6 Sophie Eder 178-F-93 Donau-Ries Germany
7 Judith Schmidt 185-F/C-92 Chemnitz Germany
8 Finja Schaake 179-G/F-92 Marburg Germany
9 Julia Kohlmann 171-G-92 Halle Germany
10 Sabrina Ochs 175-G-92 Rist Scala Germany
11 Laura Hebecker 181-F-93 Halle Germany
12 Christina Schnorr 187-F-92 Chemnitz Germany
13 Laura Masek 186-F-92 Jena Germany
14 Sonja Greinacher 190-F-92 Oberhausen Germany
15 Anna Heise 190-C-93 Halle Germany

Alexandra Maerz Head Coach
Oliver Mayer Assistant Freiburg Germany


U18 Germany dominates against U18 Bosnia in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: GERMANY - BOSNIA 75-38

Germany demonstrated their power and registered first victory in Timisioara. It was a 75-38 blowout win against Bosnia for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group B. Except of Germany and Bosnia, participants of the same pool are also Denmark and Croatia. Finja Schaake (179-G/F-92) top-scored in Germany with 14 points (5 as). Christina Schnorr (187-F-92) and Julia Gaudermann (165-G-92) netted 11 points each. In the loosing squad, Marina Dzinic (189-C-92) shined with 15 points and 6 rebounds. She was the only Bosnian player with double-digit in scoring.
Germany won every single quarter in this game and dominated in all segments. Finja Schaake and her teammates drained 22 points in the first ten minutes, while limiting Bosnians to 8. They made 14-7 in the second frame for nice 36-15 lead at the halftime. Nothing has change after the breather, despite Germany slowed down a bit and already had victory in their pocket. Third quarter ended with 16-10 and the last one with 23-13 for the final 75-38 by Germany.
On Saturday, Germany will play against Denmark. Bosnia will take on Croatia.

Germany: Finja Schaake 14+5 as, Christina Schnorr 11, Julia Gaudermann 11
Bosnia: Marina Dzinic 15+6 boards

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  GREECE - Women  


Greek U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Georgia Kantara
Kantara
Anastasia Slouka
Slouka
Grigoria Pateraki
Pateraki
Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi
Chatzigiakoumi
Artemis Spanou
Spanou
#e#5
4 Dimitra Kampouraki 164-G-93 DAS Ano Liosa Greece
5 Eleni Voulgaraki 184-G/F-92
6 Elisavet Politopoulou 164-G-93
7 Georgia Kantara 176-G-93 Pylaia Greece
8 Zafeira Giampani 185-C-92 Panionios Greece
9 Panagiota-Valeria Sella 174-G-92
10 Evgenia Loukatou 184-F-92 Esperides Greece
11 Anastasia Slouka 182-G-93 Aris Thessal. Greece
12 Grigoria Pateraki 185-F-93 DAS Ano Liosa Greece
13 Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 185-F-93 Esperides Greece
14 Maria Sartzetaki 170-G-93
15 Artemis Spanou 185-F-93 Panionios Greece

Dimitris Bakogeorgos Head Coach Marousi BC Greece
Sofia Kligopoulou Assistant Panionios Greece


U18 Greece smashes U18 Luxembourg in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: GREECE - LUXEMBOURG 81-38

Greece opened the U18 EuroBasket Division B in style. They destroyed Luxemburg 81-38 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) was the best ranked player in victory with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (185-F-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds, while Grigoria Pateraki (185-F-93) added 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Sandie Lorsche (160-F-92) had 9 pts and Nadia Marcus (173-F-93) scored one less. Of course, Luxemburg dropped to 0-1. Beside the above mentioned teams, participants of Group A are also Romania, Switzerland and Portugal.
Greece dominated from the beginning. In the first ten minutes Artemis Spanou and her teammates made 22-15 lead. Nothing had changed in Q2 and Greece jumped plus 15 at the half time. Luxembourg was not able to resists and the only question was how big difference it will be at the end. Greece made impressive 24-8 in third and 18-8 in the last quarter to finish this game.
In Day Two, Greece will meet Switzerland. Luxembourg will have a day-off.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 20+9 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 12+8 boards, Grigoria Pateraki 11
Luxembourg: Sandie Lorsche 9, Nadia Marcus 8

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  HOLLAND - Women  


Dutch U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Willemijn Kallenberg
Kallenberg
Zera Butter
Butter
Marlou De Kleijn
De Kleijn
Maxime Essenstam
Essenstam
Petronella Kraaijenoord
Kraaijenoord
#e#5
4 Willemijn Kallenberg 176-G-93 Binnenland Holland
5 Zera Butter 177-G-92 Wereldtickets.nl Holland
6 Dyan Jakupovic 171-F-92 BV Lely Holland
7 Rosanne Kruithof 176-F-93 Wereldtickets.nl Holland
8 Jamailah Adams 179-G-93 Binnenland Holland
9 Loyce Bettonvil 185-F-93
10 Marlou De Kleijn 181-F-92
11 Gabrielle Van Den Bosch 170-G-93 HLB Account. Holland
12 Maxime Essenstam 189-C-93 Wereldtickets.nl Holland
13 Petronella Kraaijenoord 187-C-93
14 Jill Bettonvil 188-F-92
15 Richelle Van Der Keijl 191-C-93 Wereldtickets.nl Holland

Ria Broring Head Coach
Remy de Wit Assistant Den Helder Holland


U18 Holland shines in Day One in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: MONTENEGRO - HOLLAND 29-84

Holland exploded in the opening day of U18 EuroBasket, Division B. They demonstrated wonderful performance and blasted Montenegro with huge 29-84. These two teams are together with Belarus and Israel placed to Preliminary Group D. Holland had seven players with double-digits in scoring in this victory. Richelle Van Der Keijl (191-C-93) and Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) had 13 points each and also grabbed 12 and 6 rebounds respectively. Zera Butter (177-G-92) helped Holland with 11 pts. Montenegro did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Jovana Vucevic (181-F-93) was their best player with just 8 pts.
Holland was way better team during the all 40 minutes of this game. They started with 9-21 in the first and continued with 4-15 in the second quarter. Montenegro was in big trouble, but they couldnt do anything about that. Holland was even better in the second half. They made 5-34 in third frame and 11-24 in the last one for 29-84 win at the end.
On Saturday, Holland will meet Belarus. Montenegro will play against Israel.

Montenegro: Jovana Vucevic 8
Holland: Richelle Van Der Keijl 13+12 boards, Maxime Essenstam 13+6 rebs, Zera Butter 11

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


Hungarian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Bettina Szabo
Szabo
Bettina Baksa
Baksa
Flora Szabo
Szabo
Lilla Adamecz
Adamecz
Alma Nemeth
Nemeth
#e#5
4 Bettina Szabo 166-G-92 Cegledi EKK Hungary
5 Noemi Czirjak 172-G-93 MiZo Pecs Hungary
6 Bettina Baksa 173-G-92 Cegledi EKK Hungary
7 Flora Szabo 186-F-92 MiZo Pecs Hungary
8 Dorina Zele 185-F-92 Szolnok Hungary
9 Szidonia Katona 182-F-93 BEAC Hungary
10 Viktoria Fuisz 175-G/F-93 Kanizsa Hungary
11 Brigitta Barta 182-F-93 Vasas-Csata Hungary
12 Anna Mansare 188-F/C-92 Vasas-Csata Hungary
13 Lilla Adamecz 181-F-92 Vasas-Csata Hungary
14 Alma Nemeth 184-F-92 MKB Eurol. Hungary
15 Judit Manyoky 171-G-92 Vasas-Csata Hungary

Judit Balogh Head Coach BEAC Hungary
Gergely Magyar Assistant


U18 Serbia beats U18 Hungary in overtime - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: SERBIA - HUNGARY 63-54

Serbia opened the championship in Poprad with victory. They registered 63-54 overtime win against Hungary for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Serbias leading player in this meeting was Dijana Stancic (180-G/F-93) with 20 points. Snezana Colic (176-G-92) also was great as she collected 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped her team with double-double of 15 points and 18 rebs. On the other side, Hungary got 18 points from Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92). Their second scorer was Brigitta Barta (182-F-93) with 13 pts (6 rebs).
Serbia was slightly better in the first quarter (11-10), while Hungary replied with the same numbers in the next ten minutes. Hungary made plus 3 at the beginning of the second half, but Dijana Stancic and her teammates immediately replied setting the score to 34-30 after 30 minutes of play. Hungary shined in the last quarter and mostly owing to Lilla Adamecz grabbed 44-46 lead with 1:47 seconds to go. The last basket in regular time was made by Stankovic, who brought extra five minutes for Serbia. There, Serbia blasted Hungary with 17-8 for the first win in Poprad.
In Day Two, Serbia will meet Slovakia. Hungary will play against Spain.

Serbia: Dijana Stancic 20, Snezana Colic 17+6 boards, Ivana Brajkovic 15+18 boards
Hungary: Lilla Adamecz 18, Brigitta Barta 13+6 boards

*****************************************************
  ISRAEL - Women  


Israeli U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Yael Shafir
Shafir
Adva Krupik
Krupik
Inbar Lev Ron
Lev Ron
Keren Mozes
Mozes
Elite Cohen
Cohen
#e#5
4 Yael Shafir 166-G-92
5 Michal Gilat 157-G-93
6 Sapir Tirosh 172-F-93
7 Adva Krupik 180-F-92
8 Hadas Shaham 168-G-92
9 Shany Zer Aviv 172-G-92
10 Daniel Hagag 165-G-92
11 Inbar Lev Ron 174-G-92
12 Amit Gur 168-G-93
13 Keren Mozes 176-F-93
14 Elite Cohen 182-F-92
15 Chen Weisbort 165-G-93

Roi Aizenberg Head Coach B.Yehuda Israel
Shira Haelion Assistant H.R. Le-Zion Israel


U18 Belarus too much for U18 Israel - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: BELARUS - ISRAEL 91-41

U18 EuroBasket Division B started on Thursday afternoon. Belarus played against Israel in Day One and registered impressive 91-41 win. These two teams are together with Montenegro and Holland placed to Preliminary Group B. Currently Belarus and Holland share the first place. Aliaksandra Musatava (174-G-92) was the leading player in victory with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Maryna Ivashchanka (188-C-93) had 17 pts and 7 boards, while Darya Lipinskaya (178-G-93) added 13 pts and 6 rebs. In Israel, Chen Weisbort (165-G-93) delivered 12 points. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring.
Belarus dominated in all segments of this game. They started with nice 24-10 in the first quarter and jumped to plus 18 until the half time. Israel was not able to resist and they faced with 27-16 in third frame. There was ten minutes left in the game and question about the winner was already resolved. Despite that fact, Aliaksandra Musatava continued to dominate making 23-2 in the last quarter for 91-41 at the end.
Belarus will meet Holland on Saturday. Israel will try to grab the first win and their rival will be Montenegro.

Belarus: Aliaksandra Musatava 20+6 boards, Maryna Ivashchanka 17+7 boards, Darya Lipinskaya 13+6 boards
Israel: Chen Weisbort 12

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


Geraldine Robert signs with Liomatic Umbertide - by Eurobasket News
Geraldine Robert (184-F-80) signs with Liomatic Umbertide for the next season. The Gabonese-French player will be a great addition to the new roster. In 2004-2005 she started for Rhonnda Rebels Tylorstown ENG- (WAL, starting five) and in Europe Cup after 6 games averaged 14.5ppg, 9.7rpg, 1.2apg, 2.5spg, 0.7bpg, 2FGP: 48.7%, 3FGP: 41.9%. In 2005-2006 she moved to Racing Club Strasbourg (France-LFB) and after 26 games showed 15.4ppg, Reb-2 (9.6rpg), 1.2apg, Steals-1 (2.5spg), 2FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 6.3%, FT: 53.0%. In 2006-2007 moved to Villeneuve D'Asco ESB (France-LFB) and in French League became the fifth top-scorer recording 15.5ppg, 6.1rpg, 2.0apg, 2.2spg, 2FGP-1 (60%), 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 63.0%. In EuroCup after 9 games her stats read 14.6ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.4apg, 2.2spg, FGP-1 (71.8%), FT: 54.3%. In 2007-2008 for Villeneuve D'Asco ESB (France-LFB) debuted in Euroleague and after 12 games Geraldine Robert averaged 12.3ppg, 7.0rpg, 0.9apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.4%, FT: 56%. In French League after 27 games her stats read 13.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.6apg, 2.1spg, 2FGP: 58.1%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 64.1%. In her last season for Villeneuve D'Asco ESB Lille Metropole (France-LFB, starting five) she showed 13.5ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 48.7%, FT: 70.0% in Euroleague, while in French League after 23 games here stats read 15.2ppg, Reb-2 (10.5ppg), 2.3apg, 2.6spg, FGP-3 (61.4%), 3PT: 11.1%, FT: 65.7%. In 2009-2010 she played for Club Atletico Faenza (Italy-A1, starting five) and in 26 games became the second top-scorer averaging 16.7ppg, Reb-3 (8.7rpg), 1.1apg, 3.6spg, FGP: 51.3%, FT: 75.5%. Geraldine Robert became Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Player of The Year -10, Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Bosman Player of The Year -10, Eurobasket.com Italian A1 All-Imports Team -10, Eurobasket.com Italian A1 All-Bosmans Team -10.
Meanwhile Bulgarian Dimana Georgieva (190-C-88) heads to Virtus Eirene Passalacqua Spedizioni Ragusa. In 2008-2009 she appeared for Fortitudo Pomezia (Italy-A2), while the last season played for RomaSistemi So.Se.Pharm Pomezia (Italy-A2, starting five). She is a member of Bulgarian U20 National Team -05-08, Bulgarian U18 National Team -05-06, European Championships U18 -05, Bulgarian National Team -06, 10. In 2008 she participated at the European Championships U20 in Chieti (Italy).


U18 Italy has joyful Day One in Poprad - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: ITALY - LATVIA 65-53

Nice win for Italy in Day One in Poprad. They celebrated 65-53 against Latvia for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group C. Beside Italy and Latvia, participants of the same pool are also Lithuania and Poland. Lucia Morsiani (186-C-92) was the leading scorer in Italy with 13 points (5 rebs). Gaia Gorini (182-G-92) (5 rebs, 5 as), Francesca Dotto (169-G-93) and Marta Masoni (184-F-93) followed her with 10 points each. In the loosing squad, Linda Pagrode (172-G-92) shined with 16 points and 10 boards. Guna Lagzdina (187-C-93) (7 rebs) and Anete Kirsteine (176-G/F-92) (8 rebs) added 11 and 9 points respectively.
Italy took control on Latvia from the early beginning. Lucia Morsiani and her teammates made quick 9-3 and later finished first quarter with 24-14 lead. Latvia was slightly better in the next ten minutes (12-13), but that was enough just for 36-27 at the halftime. Latvia came to minus five at the halfway of third quarter, but Italy quickly replied and jumped to double-digit lead. After 30 minutes of play it was comfortable 52-40 for Italy. Latvia was not able to treat in the last frame and Italy celebrated 65-53 win.
In Day Two in Poprad, Italy will play against Poland. Latvia will take on Lithuania in Baltic derby.

Italy: Lucia Morsiani 13+5 boards, Gaia Gorini 10+5 boards+5 as, Francesca Dotto 10, Marta Masoni 10
Latvia: Linda Pagrode 16+10 boards, Guna Lagzdina 11+7 boards, Anete Kirsteine 9+8 boards

Italian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Debora Carangelo
Carangelo
Lucia Morsiani
Morsiani
Beatrice Carta
Carta
Nene Diene
Diene
Marta Masoni
Masoni
#e#5
4 Francesca Dotto 169-G-93 Roma Italy
5 Debora Carangelo 167-G-92 Cervia Italy
6 Lucia Morsiani 186-C-92 Faenza Italy
7 Gaia Gorini 182-G-92 Umbertide Italy
8 Chiara Zanin 175-G-92 Marghera Italy
9 Beatrice Carta 170-G-92 Cagliari V. Italy
10 Nene Diene 182-F-92 Livorno Italy
11 Marta Masoni 184-F-93 Roma Italy
12 Lucia Di Costanzo 185-C-92 Roma Italy
13 Irene Cigliani 177-G-92
14 Veronica Dell'Olio 190-F-93
15 Clara Salvini 180-C-92

Giovanni Lucchesi Head Coach
Giovanni Alliom Assistant


*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST - Women  


Ivory Coast U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Desire Kouassi OBC Ivory Coast
Djeneba Samake ASEC Ivory Coast
Fanta Dafe ASEC Ivory Coast
Aminata Baradji ASEC Ivory Coast
Faty Ouattara BIAFFRA Ivory Coast
Marie Koffi SOA Ivory Coast
Sockna Traore DCA Ivory Coast
Tuho Camara DCA Ivory Coast
Juste Kouassi Djigui Ivory Coast
Florence Ouattara ABC Ivory Coast
Mamikan N'Dri ABC Ivory Coast
Massita Dembele ABC Ivory Coast
Aicha Koueita ABC Ivory Coast
Karidja Traore CSA Ivory Coast
Yvonne Bognini CSA Ivory Coast

Kouakou N'Dri coach
N'Da Thoms Hilaire coach
Lazare Bouabre Assistant TBC Ermess Ivory Coast


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


U18 Italy has joyful Day One in Poprad - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: ITALY - LATVIA 65-53

Nice win for Italy in Day One in Poprad. They celebrated 65-53 against Latvia for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group C. Beside Italy and Latvia, participants of the same pool are also Lithuania and Poland. Lucia Morsiani (186-C-92) was the leading scorer in Italy with 13 points (5 rebs). Gaia Gorini (182-G-92) (5 rebs, 5 as), Francesca Dotto (169-G-93) and Marta Masoni (184-F-93) followed her with 10 points each. In the loosing squad, Linda Pagrode (172-G-92) shined with 16 points and 10 boards. Guna Lagzdina (187-C-93) (7 rebs) and Anete Kirsteine (176-G/F-92) (8 rebs) added 11 and 9 points respectively.
Italy took control on Latvia from the early beginning. Lucia Morsiani and her teammates made quick 9-3 and later finished first quarter with 24-14 lead. Latvia was slightly better in the next ten minutes (12-13), but that was enough just for 36-27 at the halftime. Latvia came to minus five at the halfway of third quarter, but Italy quickly replied and jumped to double-digit lead. After 30 minutes of play it was comfortable 52-40 for Italy. Latvia was not able to treat in the last frame and Italy celebrated 65-53 win.
In Day Two in Poprad, Italy will play against Poland. Latvia will take on Lithuania in Baltic derby.

Italy: Lucia Morsiani 13+5 boards, Gaia Gorini 10+5 boards+5 as, Francesca Dotto 10, Marta Masoni 10
Latvia: Linda Pagrode 16+10 boards, Guna Lagzdina 11+7 boards, Anete Kirsteine 9+8 boards

Latvian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Sabine Dukate
Dukate
Linda Pagrode
Pagrode
Anete Kirsteine
Kirsteine
Kristiana Stauere
Stauere
Guna Lagzdina
Lagzdina
#e#5
4 Dita Rozenberga 181-F-92
5 Sabine Dukate 176-F-93 TTT Jun. Latvia
6 Ieva Eida 182-G/F-92 TTT Jun. Latvia
7 Linda Pagrode 172-G-92 TTT Riga Latvia
8 Kristiana Pumpure 170-G-92 TTT Jun. Latvia
9 Anete Kirsteine 176-G/F-92 LU Latvia
10 Agate Geka 169-G-93 TTT Jun. Latvia
11 Katrina Epnere 179-G-93
12 Madara Saleniece 188-C-82
13 Daiga Kuzmane 183-F-93
14 Kristiana Stauere 194-C-92 RTU-Merks Latvia
15 Guna Lagzdina 187-C-93 TTT Jun. Latvia

Aigars Nerips Head Coach TTT Riga Latvia
Nikolajs Romanenko Assistant DU/Swedbank Latvia


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


U18 Lithuania outplays U18 Poland thanks to 9-2 run in the finish - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: LITHUANIA - POLAND 62-55

Lithuania opened the U18 EuroBasket in Poprad with victory. Lithuanians were better than Poland 62-55 for 1-0 in Group C. Other participants of this pool are Italy and Latvia. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) top-scored in this victory with 25 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. However, Okockyte had pretty bad shot percentage in this meeting. Laura Svaryte (190-C-92) shined with 10 points and 11 rebounds, while Kriste Druskyte (181-F-92) added 10 pts and 8 rebounds. Poland got 18 points from Magdalena Zietara (177-G/F-92). Kinga Bandyk (186-F/C-92) collected 12 pts and 5 rebs.
Poland opened this game in style. They drained 21 points in the first ten minutes, while stopping their rivals to 12. Lithuania improved after that and mostly owing to Santa Okockyte closed the gap to 27-31 until the halftime. Third frame totally belonged to Lithuania, who made 33-31 turn at the beginning of it. Later they jumped to 43-39 and there was ten minutes left in the game. Poland tied the score to 46-46 with 8:04 remaining and everything was open again. Three minutes later it was 53-53, but then Lithuanians exploded making 9-2 run for rest of the way.
In Day Two in Poprad, Lithuania will play against Latvia. Poland will meet Italy.

Lithuania: Santa Okockyte 25, Laura Svaryte 10+11 boards, Kriste Druskyte 10+8 boards
Poland: Magdalena Zietara 18, Kinga Bandyk 12+5 boards

Lithuanian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Santa Okockyte
Okockyte
Neringa Skadaite
Skadaite
Laura Svaryte
Svaryte
Paulina Zaveckaite
Zaveckaite
Kriste Druskyte
Druskyte
#e#5
4 Vitalija Kaminskyte 182-G/F-92 Ruta Siauliai Lithuania
5 Dovile Saurazaite 170-G-92
6 Greta Tamasuskaite 173-G-92
7 Santa Okockyte 176-G-92 LKKA-Aistes Lithuania
8 Monika Grigalauskyte 187-F-92 Lemminkain. Lithuania
9 Neringa Skadaite 184-F-92 LKKA-Aistes Lithuania
10 Monika Petrauskaite 183-F-92 LKKA-Aistes Lithuania
11 Laura Svaryte 190-C-92 Ruta Siauliai Lithuania
12 Paulina Zaveckaite 186-F-92 Lintel 118 Lithuania
13 Kriste Druskyte 181-F-92 LKKA-Aistes Lithuania
14 Eivile Steikunaite 188-F/C-92 LKKA-Aistes Lithuania
15 Gabija Morkunaite 174-G-93

Aurimas Jasilionis Head Coach LKKA-Aistes Lithuania
Romanas Brazdauskis Assistant


*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


U18 Greece smashes U18 Luxembourg in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: GREECE - LUXEMBOURG 81-38

Greece opened the U18 EuroBasket Division B in style. They destroyed Luxemburg 81-38 for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) was the best ranked player in victory with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (185-F-93) had 12 points and 8 rebounds, while Grigoria Pateraki (185-F-93) added 11 pts. In the loosing squad, Sandie Lorsche (160-F-92) had 9 pts and Nadia Marcus (173-F-93) scored one less. Of course, Luxemburg dropped to 0-1. Beside the above mentioned teams, participants of Group A are also Romania, Switzerland and Portugal.
Greece dominated from the beginning. In the first ten minutes Artemis Spanou and her teammates made 22-15 lead. Nothing had changed in Q2 and Greece jumped plus 15 at the half time. Luxembourg was not able to resists and the only question was how big difference it will be at the end. Greece made impressive 24-8 in third and 18-8 in the last quarter to finish this game.
In Day Two, Greece will meet Switzerland. Luxembourg will have a day-off.

Greece: Artemis Spanou 20+9 boards, Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi 12+8 boards, Grigoria Pateraki 11
Luxembourg: Sandie Lorsche 9, Nadia Marcus 8

Luxembourg U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Laura Wilwert
Wilwert
Nadia Marcus
Marcus
Sandie Lorsche
Lorsche
Jana Putz
Putz
Lena Hetto
Hetto
#e#5
4 Kim Schintgen 172-G-93
6 Paulina Scheuren 162-G-93 Residence Luxembourg
7 Laura Wilwert 168-G-82 Musel Pikes Luxembourg
8 Nadia Marcus 173-F-93
9 Sandie Lorsche 160-F-92 T71 Dudelange Luxembourg
11 Julie Zovile 176-F-92 AB Contern Luxembourg
12 Jana Putz 169-F-93
13 Lena Hetto 184-F-93
14 Sophie Scheider 166-G-92

Ben Rush Head Coach
Thierry Kremer Assistant


*****************************************************
  MALI - Women  


Mali U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Aissata Maiga 92
Aminata Coulibaly
Fatoumata Konate
Rakiatou Maiga
Aminata Dante
Aminata Konate
Farima Toure
Aminata Sissoko
Fatou Coco Diakite
Mariam Konate
Fanta Diakite
Mariam Kone

Amara Traore Head Coach


*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO - Women  


U18 Holland shines in Day One in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: MONTENEGRO - HOLLAND 29-84

Holland exploded in the opening day of U18 EuroBasket, Division B. They demonstrated wonderful performance and blasted Montenegro with huge 29-84. These two teams are together with Belarus and Israel placed to Preliminary Group D. Holland had seven players with double-digits in scoring in this victory. Richelle Van Der Keijl (191-C-93) and Maxime Essenstam (189-C-93) had 13 points each and also grabbed 12 and 6 rebounds respectively. Zera Butter (177-G-92) helped Holland with 11 pts. Montenegro did not have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Jovana Vucevic (181-F-93) was their best player with just 8 pts.
Holland was way better team during the all 40 minutes of this game. They started with 9-21 in the first and continued with 4-15 in the second quarter. Montenegro was in big trouble, but they couldnt do anything about that. Holland was even better in the second half. They made 5-34 in third frame and 11-24 in the last one for 29-84 win at the end.
On Saturday, Holland will meet Belarus. Montenegro will play against Israel.

Montenegro: Jovana Vucevic 8
Holland: Richelle Van Der Keijl 13+12 boards, Maxime Essenstam 13+6 rebs, Zera Butter 11

Montenegrin U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Jovana Pasic
Pasic
Jelena Nikpaljevic
Nikpaljevic
Aleksandra Dobrovic
Dobrovic
Jelena Vucetic
Vucetic
Kristina Rakovic
Rakovic
#e#5
4 Ivana Jovic 185-C-92 BC Ada Montenegro
5 Jovana Pasic 178-G-92 Antivari Bar Montenegro
6 Jelena Nikpaljevic 175-G-94 Antivari Bar Montenegro
7 Snezana Lazovic 170-G-92 Jedinstvo BP Montenegro
8 Marija Perunovic 171-G-92 Buducnost Montenegro
9 Milica Grnovic 180-G-93 Buducnost Montenegro
10 Aleksandra Dobrovic 184-C-93 Buducnost Montenegro
11 Bozica Mujovic 178-G-96
12 Anja Stijepovic 185-C-92 Rudar Montenegro
13 Jelena Vucetic 178-G-93 Antivari Bar Montenegro
14 Jovana Vucevic 181-F-93
15 Kristina Rakovic 177-G-94 Jedinstvo BP Montenegro

Drazen Sekularac Head Coach
Nikola Cosovic Assistant


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


Polish U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Magdalena Zietara
Zietara
Paulina Kuras
Kuras
Aldona Morawiec
Morawiec
Kinga Bandyk
Bandyk
Martyna Stelmach
Stelmach
#e#5
4 Magdalena Zietara 177-G/F-92 MUKS Poznan Poland
5 Anna Tanasiejczuk 174-G-92 Lomianki Poland
6 Katarzyna Trzeciak 173-G-92 AZS UMCS Poland
7 Magdalena Idziorek 175-G-92 MUKS Poznan Poland
8 Monika Jasnowska 182-G/F-92 Lomianki Poland
9 Karolina Wilk 185-F-93 Lomianki Poland
10 Paulina Kuras 170-G-92 Lomianki Poland
11 Aldona Morawiec 183-F-92 Lomianki Poland
12 Monika Bieniek 180-G-92 Lomianki Poland
13 Kinga Bandyk 186-F/C-92 Lomianki Poland
14 Agata Szczepanik 194-F/C-92 Lomianki Poland
15 Martyna Stelmach 187-F/C-92

Nikolaj Tanasejczuk Head Coach Lotos Gdynia Poland
Rafal Czyszpak Assistant Lomianki Poland


U18 Lithuania outplays U18 Poland thanks to 9-2 run in the finish - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: LITHUANIA - POLAND 62-55

Lithuania opened the U18 EuroBasket in Poprad with victory. Lithuanians were better than Poland 62-55 for 1-0 in Group C. Other participants of this pool are Italy and Latvia. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) top-scored in this victory with 25 points and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. However, Okockyte had pretty bad shot percentage in this meeting. Laura Svaryte (190-C-92) shined with 10 points and 11 rebounds, while Kriste Druskyte (181-F-92) added 10 pts and 8 rebounds. Poland got 18 points from Magdalena Zietara (177-G/F-92). Kinga Bandyk (186-F/C-92) collected 12 pts and 5 rebs.
Poland opened this game in style. They drained 21 points in the first ten minutes, while stopping their rivals to 12. Lithuania improved after that and mostly owing to Santa Okockyte closed the gap to 27-31 until the halftime. Third frame totally belonged to Lithuania, who made 33-31 turn at the beginning of it. Later they jumped to 43-39 and there was ten minutes left in the game. Poland tied the score to 46-46 with 8:04 remaining and everything was open again. Three minutes later it was 53-53, but then Lithuanians exploded making 9-2 run for rest of the way.
In Day Two in Poprad, Lithuania will play against Latvia. Poland will meet Italy.

Lithuania: Santa Okockyte 25, Laura Svaryte 10+11 boards, Kriste Druskyte 10+8 boards
Poland: Magdalena Zietara 18, Kinga Bandyk 12+5 boards

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  PORTUGAL - Women  


Portuguese U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Jessica Almeida
Almeida
Maria Joao Andrade
Andrade
Filipa Bernardeco
Bernardeco
Susana Cardoso
Cardoso
Paula Couto
Couto
#e#5
Jessica Almeida 172-G-93 Olivais Portugal
Maria Joao Andrade 186-F/C-92 Olivais Portugal
Filipa Bernardeco 173-G-92
Susana Cardoso 174-F-92
Paula Couto 180-F-93
Daniela Domingues 176-F/G-92 BCBarcelos Portugal
Ines Faustino 167-G-92 AD Vagos Portugal
Joana Jesus 169-G-93
Luzia Lampreia 173-G-92 Barreiro Portugal
Victoria Pacheco 179-C-92 Uniao Madeira Portugal
Ines Pinto 174-F-93
Vania Torres 184-C-93

Mariyana Kostourkova Head Coach
Ana Paula Oliveira Assistant


*****************************************************
  ROMANIA - Women  


Romanian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Gabriela Cursaru
Cursaru
Sonia Ursu
Ursu
Iulia Olaru
Olaru
Alexandra Florea
Florea
Oana Baluta
Baluta
#e#5
4 Gabriela Cursaru 169-G-92 Olimpia Romania
5 Alexandra Ionescu 175-G-92 Sp.Studentesc Romania
6 Sonia Ursu 175-F-93 Olimpia Romania
7 Iulia Olaru 181-F-92 Sp.Studentesc Romania
8 Stefana Rotarescu 188-C-92 Olimpia Romania
9 Cristina Bigica 182-F-92 Olimpia Romania
10 Ruxandra Mitroi 179-F-92 Sp.Studentesc Romania
11 Elena Usurelu 172-F-92
12 Bianca Blanaru 192-C-95 Timisoara Romania
13 Alexandra Florea 187-C-92 Olimpia Romania
14 Alina Craciun 194-C-93 Olimpia Romania
15 Oana Baluta 184-C-93 Sp.Studentesc Romania

Dan Fleseriu Head Coach Satu Mare Romania
Stefania Bors Assistant Sp.Studentesc Romania


U18 Romania shines in Day One in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: ROMANIA - SWITZERLAND 80-38

The host of U18 EuroBasket Division B had a joyful Day One in Timisoara. Romania had no troubles to beat Switzerland and to reach the first win in Group A. Their leading player was Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Sonia Ursu (175-F-93) shined with 11 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists, while Oana Baluta (184-C-93) added 11 pts and 5 boards. In Switzerland, Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) delivered 11 points. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring.
Romania demonstrated their power in the first quarter sending a clear signal that Switzerland will not have a chance. Cristina Bigica and her teammates limited their rivals to just 2 points for ten minutes, while they drained 18 on the other side. Switzerland somehow recovered from this shock, but still faced with 27-11 deficit at the half time. Romania had another great period after the breather. They smashed Switzerland with 29-11 and all after that was just the formality.
In Day Two in Timisoara, Romania will meet Portugal. Switzerland will take on Greece.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 22+6 boards, Sonia Ursu 11+15 boards+6 assists, Oana Baluta 11+5 boards
Switzerland: Vanessa Dorestant 11

*****************************************************
  RUSSIA - Women  


Russian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Yulia Stepanova
Stepanova
Anastasia Pasynkova
Pasynkova
Anastasiya Maksimova
Maksimova
Svetlana Efimova
Efimova
Alexandra Stolyar
Stolyar
#e#5
4 Alina Zamaraeva 180-G-93 Chevakata Russia
5 Mariya-Margarita Davydova 189-F/C-93 Trinta Russia
6 Yulia Stepanova 188-C-92 Spartak SP Russia
7 Ekaterina Kubynina 168-G-92 Gloria M. Russia
8 Anastasia Pasynkova 168-G-92
9 Ekaterina Fedorenkova 177-G-93 Dynamo M. Russia
10 Anastasiya Maksimova 182-F-92 Spartak SP Russia
11 Yulia Poluyanova 187-F-92 Nadezhda O. Russia
12 Nina Gumennaya 178-G-92
13 Svetlana Efimova 187-F-92
14 Dorina Varzar 192-C-92
15 Alexandra Stolyar 178-G-92 Dynamo M. Russia

Olga Shuneykina Head Coach UMMC-Junior Russia
Evgeniya Nikonova Assistant Moscow-2 Russia
Sergey Mukhaev Assistant


U18 EuroBasket: Russia celebrates in Day One against Belgium - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: RUSSIA - BELGIUM 66-58

Russia had a joyful Day One in Poprad. They celebrated 66-58 win against Belgium for 1-0 in Preliminary Group B (same as Sweden). Yulia Stepanova (188-C-92) came up with 15 points and 7 rebounds in this victory. She reached valuation 19 and grabbed MVP title for this meeting. Svetlana Efimova (187-F-92) had 13 points and 8 rebounds, while Alexandra Stolyar (178-G-92) added 10 pts and 5 rebs. In the loosing squad, Hanne Mestdagh (179-F-93) collected 13 points and 7 rebs. Ann Schyvens (160-G-93) followed her with 10 points.
Everything started good for Belgium, who opened this game with 5-10 and later 7-13 lead. Hanne Mestdagh and her teammates managed to keep plus six for rest of the Q1, 12-18. Russia players woke up after that and replied with 15-11 in the second frame for 27-29 deficit at the halftime. They took full control on Belgium in third quarter. Russia intensified defense limiting their rivals to 9 pts, while they drained 18 on the other side. When Russia reached 50-38 with 9:21 to go it was clear that the game winner is already known. Belgium was not able to reply and faced with 66-58 defeat in Day One.
In Day Two, Russia will play against Slovenia. Belgium will take on Sweden.

Russia: Yulia Stepanova 15+7 boards, Svetlana Efimova 13+8 boards, Alexandra Stolyar 10+5 boards
Belgium: Hanne Mestdagh 13+7 boards, Ann Schyvens 10

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  SCOTLAND - Women  


Scottish U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Gemma Black
Black
Jennifer Lynn
Lynn
Hannah Murray
Murray
Erin Mc Garrachan
Mc Garrachan
Lauren McKinlay
McKinlay
#e#5
4 Gemma Black 164-G-92 St.Mirren RKC Scotland
5 Claire Straiton 178-G-93
6 Erin Gilbride 163-G-93 Glasgow R. Scotland
7 Emilia Rossi 175-F-92
8 Jennifer Lynn 180-F-93
9 Chloe Lodge 164-G-93 Edinburgh KK Scotland
10 Kerri Marshall 170-G-93
11 Katrina Laidlaw 180-C-93 Clark Erikss. Scotland
12 Hannah Murray 182-C-93
13 Jenna Beattie 180-F-93 Clark Erikss. Scotland
14 Erin Mc Garrachan 182-F-92 Glasgow R. Scotland
15 Lauren McKinlay 188-C-92

Donna Finnie Head Coach
Jen Gallacher Assistant


U18 Finland devastates U18 Scotland in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: FINLAND - SCOTLAND 91-29

Finland destroyed Scotland in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket, Division B. It was a game where Finland dominated in all basketball segments and celebrated 91-29 win. Both teams are together with Estonia, Bulgaria and England placed to Preliminary Group C. Evita Iiskola (181-F-93) led Finland in this game with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Annika Holopainen (186-F/C-93) (5 rebs) and Laura Juhola (172-F-92) added 12 points each. Laura Saarinen (184-F-92) helped the winners with 10 pts and 8 rebs. Scotland got 9 points and 5 rebs from Erin McGarrachan (182-F-92). Their second scorer was Lauren McKinlay (188-C-92) (5 rebs) with 8 pts.
Finland was simply better in all basketball elements against Scotland. They made 23-10 in the first quarter and that was just the beginning. Than something extraordinary happened. Scotland was not able to score any point for the entire second frame. On the other side, Finland drained 20 for 43-13 HT lead. Finland made 10-8 in third and huge 38-8 in the last quarter for 91-29 win at the end.
On Saturday, Finland will play against England. Scotland will meet Estonia.

Finland: Evita Iiskola 14+6 boards+7 as, Annika Holopainen 12+5 boards, Laura Juhola 12, Laura Saarinen 10+8 boards
Scotland: Erin McGarrachan 9+5 boards, Lauren McKinlay 8+5 boards

*****************************************************
  SERBIA - Women  


U18 Serbia beats U18 Hungary in overtime - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: SERBIA - HUNGARY 63-54

Serbia opened the championship in Poprad with victory. They registered 63-54 overtime win against Hungary for 1-0 record in Preliminary Group A. Serbias leading player in this meeting was Dijana Stancic (180-G/F-93) with 20 points. Snezana Colic (176-G-92) also was great as she collected 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Ivana Brajkovic (195-C-93) helped her team with double-double of 15 points and 18 rebs. On the other side, Hungary got 18 points from Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92). Their second scorer was Brigitta Barta (182-F-93) with 13 pts (6 rebs).
Serbia was slightly better in the first quarter (11-10), while Hungary replied with the same numbers in the next ten minutes. Hungary made plus 3 at the beginning of the second half, but Dijana Stancic and her teammates immediately replied setting the score to 34-30 after 30 minutes of play. Hungary shined in the last quarter and mostly owing to Lilla Adamecz grabbed 44-46 lead with 1:47 seconds to go. The last basket in regular time was made by Stankovic, who brought extra five minutes for Serbia. There, Serbia blasted Hungary with 17-8 for the first win in Poprad.
In Day Two, Serbia will meet Slovakia. Hungary will play against Spain.

Serbia: Dijana Stancic 20, Snezana Colic 17+6 boards, Ivana Brajkovic 15+18 boards
Hungary: Lilla Adamecz 18, Brigitta Barta 13+6 boards

Serbian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Snezana Colic
Colic
Kaja Stankovic
Stankovic
Jelena Repic
Repic
Dijana Stancic
Stancic
Ivana Brajkovic
Brajkovic
#e#5
4 Snezana Colic 176-G-92 Radivoj Korac Serbia
5 Zorana Nikolic 168-G-92 Hemofarm Serbia
6 Jelena Stankovic 182-F-93 Celarevo Serbia
7 Tijana Dijan 174-G-92 Radivoj Korac Serbia
8 Jelena Stulic 180-G/F-93
9 Kaja Stankovic 173-G-92 Radivoj Korac Serbia
10 Jelena Repic 185-F-92 Loznica Serbia
11 Milica Toskovic 184-F-93
12 Dijana Stancic 180-G/F-93 Radivoj Korac Serbia
13 Jovana Karakasevic 190-C/F-92 Vojvodina Serbia
14 Ivana Brajkovic 195-C-93 Radivoj Korac Serbia
15 Jovana Dordevic 185-F-93 Radivoj Korac Serbia

Zoran Kovacic Head Coach
Dragan Vukovic Assistant Radivoj Korac Serbia


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Slovakian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Martina Kissova
Kissova
Zofia Hruscakova
Hruscakova
Marta Palenikova
Palenikova
Gabriela Nagyova
Nagyova
Denisa Domiterova
Domiterova
#e#5
4 Martina Letkova 189-F-92 Banska Bystrica Slovakia
5 Martina Kissova 185-F-93 Dobri Anjeli Slovakia
6 Zofia Hruscakova 190-C-95
7 Noema Bradnanska 176-G/F-93
8 Petra Bartanusova 172-G-92
9 Marta Palenikova 184-G/F-92
10 Sabina Oroszova 187-F-93
11 Gabriela Nagyova 174-G-92 Dobri Anjeli Slovakia
12 Adriana Firkalova 179-F-92 Cassovia K. Slovakia
13 Denisa Domiterova 178-G-92 Banska Bystrica Slovakia
14 Martina Matejcikova 179-F-92 Banska Bystrica Slovakia
15 Zuzana Stevove 189-F/C-92 Banska Bystrica Slovakia

Martin Pospisil Head Coach
Miloslav Michalik Assistant Banska Bystrica Slovakia


U18 Spain too strong for U18 Slovakia in Day One in Poprad - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: SPAIN - SLOVAKIA 63-53

Spain demonstrated nice performance in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket in Poprad. They outplayed the hosts of this event 63-53 for 1-0 in Preliminary Group A. Of course, Slovakia dropped to 0-1. Laura Gil Collado (190-C-92) stepped up for the winners with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Mariona Ortiz (183-G-92) was their second scorer with 12 points and she had 5 rebounds beside that. In the loosing squad, Martina Kissova (185-F-93) and Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) had 8 points and 5 rebounds each.
Spain was slightly better team making 11-8 in the first ten minutes. Both squads improved offensively after that, but still Spain won that period as well (19-17). Third quarter was the low scoring one as both teams made many mistakes and missed many wide open shots. That resulted with 10-8 and Spain was 40-33 up before the last ten minutes. Slovakia desperately needed a turn, but they were not able to make it. Spain closed this game with 23-20 for the final 63-53 victory.
In Day Two in Poprad, Spain will play against Hungary. Slovakia will meet Serbia.

Spain: Laura Gil Collado 15+10 boards, Mariona Ortiz 12+5 boards
Slovakia: Martina Kissova 8+5 boards, Zofia Hruscakova 8+5 boards

*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA - Women  


U18 Sweden explodes in the last 15 minutes, grabs 70-67 win against U18 Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: SWEDEN - SLOVENIA 70-67

Sweden grabbed tiny 70-67 win against Slovenia on Thursday evening. It was a Day One of U18 EuroBasket in Poprad. These two teams are together with Russia and Belgium placed to Preliminary Group B. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) was a key player in Belgium as she collected 27 points and 10 rebounds. Zahui reached valuation 28 and was the MVP of this game. Salome Kabengano (177-G-92) helped the winners with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. In Slovenia, Rebeka Abramovic (170-G-93) shined with 19 points. Nika Baric (169-G-92) (5 as) and Tjasa Gortnar (185-F-92) (8 rebs) had 18 and 16 points respectively.
Sweden started this game with nice 12-4 run. Slovenia replied with 3-6 for rest of the first quarter to close the gap to 5 pts. Rebeka Abramovic and her teammates had nice second frame (18-22) and teams were almost tied at the halftime, 33-32. Slovenia exploded after the breather and looked great at both sides of the court. They created impressive 4-20 run for comfortable 37-52 advantage. However, Sweden didnt panic and they came to 46-54 until the end of Q3. Sweden blasted their rivals in the last ten minutes with 24-13, what was enough for the win in Day One in Poprad.
On Friday, Sweden will meet Belgium. Slovenia will play against Spain.

Sweden: Amanda Zahui 27+10 boards, Salome Kabengano 14+8 boards+5 as
Slovenia: Rebeka Abramovic 19, Nika Baric 18+5 as, Tjasa Gortnar 16+8 boards

Slovenian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Bojana Adamovic
Adamovic
Tjasa Gortnar
Gortnar
Nika Baric
Baric
Tina Jakovina
Jakovina
Rebeka Abramovic
Abramovic
#e#5
4 Ziva Macura 185-F-95
5 Ursa Svetic 173-G-93
6 Bojana Adamovic 176-G-92 Triglav Slovenia
7 Tjasa Gortnar 185-F-92 Merkur Celje Slovenia
8 Alja Samec 167-G-93
9 Nika Baric 169-G-92 Merkur Celje Slovenia
10 Tina Jakovina 182-G-92
11 Eva Rupnik 177-G-92 Jezica Slovenia
12 Sandra Jevtovic 187-F-93 Merkur Celje Slovenia
13 Tjasa Kopusar 179-G-92 Merkur Celje Slovenia
14 Rebeka Abramovic 170-G-93 Merkur Celje Slovenia
15 Tjasa Unverdorben 177-F-93 Kozmetika Afr. Slovenia

Damir Grgic Head Coach Merkur Celje Slovenia
Saso Rebernik Assistant NT U16 Slovenia


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


Spanish U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Mariona Ortiz
Ortiz
Queralt Casas
Casas
Claudia Calvelo
Calvelo
Elena Diaz
Diaz
Elisabet Vivas
Vivas
#e#5
4 Marina Delgado 171-G-92 Real C.Vigo Spain
5 Marta Claret 185-C-92 Mataro Spain
6 Inmaculada Zanoguera 177-G-93 Mariana Spain
7 Maria Espana 175-F-92 Mariana Spain
8 Mariona Ortiz 183-G-92 Mataro Spain
9 Queralt Casas 180-G-92 Mann Filter Spain
10 Yurena Diaz 176-G-93 Gran Canaria Spain
11 Claudia Calvelo 190-C-92
12 Elena Diaz 188-F/C-92 Estudiantes Spain
13 Elisabet Vivas 177-F-92 Cajacanarias Spain
14 Laura Gil Collado 190-C-92 Perfumerias Spain
15 Andrea Vilaro 179-F-93 Segle XXI Spain

Miguel Mendez Head Coach Real C.Vigo Spain
Jose Luis Alberola Assistant


Allison Feaster-Strong and Aitana Cuevas stay in their squads - by Eurobasket News
Allison Feaster-Strong (181-F-76, college: Harvard) will stay with Mann Filter for another season. The American player appeared for the team last year and proved her ambitions for the top player. In EuroCup after 8 games she averaged 12.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 44.0%, FT: 71.4%. She recorded 30 points in Round 24 as Mann Filter handed fourth loss of the season to Rivas Ecopolis, who despite that stays third ranked team in the league. Mann Filter was led by Allison Feaster-Strong, who drained impressive 30 points. Clara Bermejo answered with 14 points for the guests.
Deborah Rodriguez (89) return to Celta Indepo. Born in 1989 she started for Celat in 2008. Last season she spent for Codigalco Carmelitas Ourense (LF2), while now comes back to her previous team.
Aitana Cuevas (187-F-86) will continue in Cajarural Verona Norte where she started in 2007. In her first season after 29 games she averaged 11.9ppg, 6.5rpg, 2FGP: 43.0%, FT: 38.0%. In 2008-2009 for Cajarural Verona Norte (LF2, starting five) after 32 games her stats read 11.5ppg, 5.9rpg, 2FGP: 48.0%, FT: 67.0%. In 2009-2010 she stayed with Caja Rural Valbusenda and next year it will be her fourth season there. Aitana Cuevas participated at the World Championships U21 in Moscow Region (Russia) -07 and in 7 games averaged 2.9ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.0spg.


U18 Spain too strong for U18 Slovakia in Day One in Poprad - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: SPAIN - SLOVAKIA 63-53

Spain demonstrated nice performance in Day One of the U18 EuroBasket in Poprad. They outplayed the hosts of this event 63-53 for 1-0 in Preliminary Group A. Of course, Slovakia dropped to 0-1. Laura Gil Collado (190-C-92) stepped up for the winners with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Mariona Ortiz (183-G-92) was their second scorer with 12 points and she had 5 rebounds beside that. In the loosing squad, Martina Kissova (185-F-93) and Zofia Hruscakova (190-C-95) had 8 points and 5 rebounds each.
Spain was slightly better team making 11-8 in the first ten minutes. Both squads improved offensively after that, but still Spain won that period as well (19-17). Third quarter was the low scoring one as both teams made many mistakes and missed many wide open shots. That resulted with 10-8 and Spain was 40-33 up before the last ten minutes. Slovakia desperately needed a turn, but they were not able to make it. Spain closed this game with 23-20 for the final 63-53 victory.
In Day Two in Poprad, Spain will play against Hungary. Slovakia will meet Serbia.

Spain: Laura Gil Collado 15+10 boards, Mariona Ortiz 12+5 boards
Slovakia: Martina Kissova 8+5 boards, Zofia Hruscakova 8+5 boards

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  SWEDEN - Women  


U18 Sweden explodes in the last 15 minutes, grabs 70-67 win against U18 Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: SWEDEN - SLOVENIA 70-67

Sweden grabbed tiny 70-67 win against Slovenia on Thursday evening. It was a Day One of U18 EuroBasket in Poprad. These two teams are together with Russia and Belgium placed to Preliminary Group B. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) was a key player in Belgium as she collected 27 points and 10 rebounds. Zahui reached valuation 28 and was the MVP of this game. Salome Kabengano (177-G-92) helped the winners with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. In Slovenia, Rebeka Abramovic (170-G-93) shined with 19 points. Nika Baric (169-G-92) (5 as) and Tjasa Gortnar (185-F-92) (8 rebs) had 18 and 16 points respectively.
Sweden started this game with nice 12-4 run. Slovenia replied with 3-6 for rest of the first quarter to close the gap to 5 pts. Rebeka Abramovic and her teammates had nice second frame (18-22) and teams were almost tied at the halftime, 33-32. Slovenia exploded after the breather and looked great at both sides of the court. They created impressive 4-20 run for comfortable 37-52 advantage. However, Sweden didnt panic and they came to 46-54 until the end of Q3. Sweden blasted their rivals in the last ten minutes with 24-13, what was enough for the win in Day One in Poprad.
On Friday, Sweden will meet Belgium. Slovenia will play against Spain.

Sweden: Amanda Zahui 27+10 boards, Salome Kabengano 14+8 boards+5 as
Slovenia: Rebeka Abramovic 19, Nika Baric 18+5 as, Tjasa Gortnar 16+8 boards

Swedish U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Nathalie Fontaine
Fontaine
Mia Hakim
Hakim
Salome Kabengano
Kabengano
Sandra Hasahya Ngoie
Hasahya Ngoie
Amanda Zahui
Zahui
#e#5
4 Nathalie Fontaine 183-F-93 08 Sweden
5 Mia Hakim 163-G-92 Eos Sweden
6 Marie Persson 180-F-93
7 Linnea Brandholm 175-G-92 Orebro Sweden
8 Ellen Nystrom 180-G-93
9 Salome Kabengano 177-G-92 Telge Sweden
10 Sandra Hasahya Ngoie 184-F/C-92 08 Sweden
11 Alice Nystrom 183-F-93
12 Elin Gustavsson 185-F-93
13 Farhiya Abdi 187-F-92
14 Josefin Vesterberg 187-F-93
15 Amanda Zahui 191-C-93 Telge Sweden

Fredrik Joulamo Head Coach Eos Sweden
Mikael Johansson Assistant
Maria Nasstrom Assistant Solna Vikings Sweden


Canada steamroll past Sweden in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Sweden 66:39

Canada swept the exhibition series against Sweden. The North American side celebrated a comfortable 66:39 win in the second game of the test series. Kimberley Smith (187-F-84, college: Utah) notched 21 points to pace Canada. Sweden got to the better start. They recorded a 15:12 lead ten minutes into the game. But Canada quickly took over. They limited their European opponents to only 4 points in the second frame. Canada piled up a 25:19 lead at halftime. The hosts went on a 12:0 run at the start of the third quarter to clear off. Canada posted a 15-point advantage at the final break. Canada continued their dominance in the fourth quarter. They outgunned Sweden 23:11 to record a clinical victory at the end.
Jordan Adams (191-F-81, college: N.Mexico) finished with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Natalie Achonwa (189-F-92) contributed 7 points for the winners. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) answered with 14 points for Sweden. Kadidja Andersson (183-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: Minnesota) accounted for 8 points in the loss.

Canada: Kimberley Smith 21, Jordan Adams 11, Natalie Achonwa 7
Sweden: Frida Eldebrink 14, Kadidja Andersson 8


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  SWITZERLAND - Women  


Swiss U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Alix Rieder
Rieder
Vanessa Dorestant
Dorestant
Dorothee Studer
Studer
Giulia Simioni
Simioni
Rosalie Grobet
Grobet
#e#5
4 Melissa Favre 182-F-92
5 Nadege Clement 184-C-93 BBC Switzerland
6 Sarah Cavin 178-F-92
7 Alix Rieder 168-G-93
8 Vanessa Dorestant 170-G-92
9 Martina Bracelli 178-F-93
10 Anne Sophie Gavin 168-G-92 BBC Switzerland
11 Dorothee Studer 168-G-92 Nyon Switzerland
12 Dana Bozovic 180-F-93 Fribourg Switzerland
13 Giulia Simioni 169-G-93
14 Rosalie Grobet 185-F-92
15 Anissa Toumi 182-C/F-92

Billy Karageorgakis Head Coach
Corinne Saudan Assistant Martigny Switzerland


U18 Romania shines in Day One in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket (Division B), Day One: ROMANIA - SWITZERLAND 80-38

The host of U18 EuroBasket Division B had a joyful Day One in Timisoara. Romania had no troubles to beat Switzerland and to reach the first win in Group A. Their leading player was Cristina Bigica (182-F-92) with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Sonia Ursu (175-F-93) shined with 11 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists, while Oana Baluta (184-C-93) added 11 pts and 5 boards. In Switzerland, Vanessa Dorestant (170-G-92) delivered 11 points. She was their only player with double-digits in scoring.
Romania demonstrated their power in the first quarter sending a clear signal that Switzerland will not have a chance. Cristina Bigica and her teammates limited their rivals to just 2 points for ten minutes, while they drained 18 on the other side. Switzerland somehow recovered from this shock, but still faced with 27-11 deficit at the half time. Romania had another great period after the breather. They smashed Switzerland with 29-11 and all after that was just the formality.
In Day Two in Timisoara, Romania will meet Portugal. Switzerland will take on Greece.

Romania: Cristina Bigica 22+6 boards, Sonia Ursu 11+15 boards+6 assists, Oana Baluta 11+5 boards
Switzerland: Vanessa Dorestant 11

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  TURKEY - Women  


Turkish U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Nihan Demirkol
Demirkol
Ozlem Ozturk
Ozturk
Aysegul Gunay
Gunay
Emel Guler
Guler
Ozge Kavurmacioglu
Kavurmacioglu
#e#5
4 Nihan Demirkol 172-G-92
5 Ozlem Ozturk 174-F-92
6 Aysegul Gunay 172-G-92 Fenerbahce Turkey
7 Rana Derin 175-G/F-92 Istanbul Univ. Turkey
8 Ayse Cora 175-G/F-93 Besiktas Turkey
9 Ozge Turmus 188-C-92
10 Cansu Yetis 168-G-93 Botas Turkey
11 Olcay Cakir 180-G-93 Pamukspor Turkey
12 Emel Guler 188-F-92 Fenerbahce Turkey
13 Melike Yalcinkaya 189-C-93 Ceyhan Bld Turkey
14 Emel Turkyilmaz 196-F/C-92 Antalya Koleji Turkey
15 Ozge Kavurmacioglu 187-F-93 Pamukspor Turkey

Ayhan Avci Head Coach TED Kayseri Turkey
Yasin Akinci Assistant
Halil Demirbilek Assistant Botas Turkey


U18 Turkey destroys U18 Czech Republic in Poprad - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: CZECH REPUBLIC - TURKEY 68-86

Turkey demonstrated their power in Day One in Poprad. They registered excellent 68-86 win against Czech Republic to make 1-0 in Preliminary Group D. At the same day, France was better than Ukraine, meaning that Turkey and France now share the first place in this pool. Aysegul Gunay (172-G-92) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Azge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) shined with 21 points and 13 rebounds to grab the MVP title for this game. Nihan Demirkol (172-G-92) helped with 16 points, 9 boards and 5 assists. In defeat, Martina Cepelkova (183-F-92) was good with 21 points. Tereza Vyoralova (175-G-94) scored 11 pts.
Second and third quarter were the crucial ones in this game. Turkey made tiny 18-19 lead in the first ten minutes, but they took full control on their rivals in Q2 to reach 37-44 HT lead. Everything was resolved after the breather. Azge Kavurmacioglu and her teammates exploded offensively once again as they scored 26 points. This time, Turkey intensified defense as well as and Czech Republic was in trouble. They were limited to just 10 points in third quarter and faced with 47-70 deficit with 10 minutes remaining. Of course, last quarter was just the formality and Turkey celebrated comfortable win.
On Friday in Poprad, Turkey will play against France. Czech Republic will meet Ukraine.

Czech Republic: Martina Cepelkova 21, Tereza Vyoralova 11
Turkey: Aysegul Gunay 22, Azge Kavurmacioglu 21+13 boards, Nihan Demirkol 16+9 boards+5 as

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  UKRAINE - Women  


Ukrainian U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
Starting five
#s#
Oxana Rysina
Rysina
Alina Iagupova
Iagupova
Anastasiya Yablonska
Yablonska
Viktoriya Skubiy
Skubiy
Anna Kiriyenko
Kiriyenko
#e#5
4 Oxana Rysina 172-G-93
5 Nataliya Pokrovenko 174-G-93
6 Alina Iagupova 179-G-92 Dnipro Ukraine
7 Ganna Voynalovych 176-G-93
8 Anastasiya Yablonska 173-G-93
9 Kateryna Demchenko 178-F-93
10 Viktoriya Karyeva 187-F-92 Tim-Scuf Ukraine
11 Mariya Tkach 175-G-92 Tim-Scuf Ukraine
12 Viktoriya Skubiy 185-F-92 Tim-Scuf Ukraine
13 Anna Kiriyenko 190-C-93 Dnipro Ukraine
14 Oleksandra Chek 190-C-93
15 Lyudmyla Naumenko 177-F-93

Iryna Nagorna Head Coach
Larysa Yeshchenko Assistant


U18 France grabs 62-61 thriller win against U18 Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
U18 EuroBasket, Day One: FRANCE - UKRAINE 62-61

In the last game of Day One in Poprad, France grabbed thriller win against Ukraine. It means that France joined Turkey on top of Preliminary Group D with 1-0 record. Ukraine dropped to 0-1 having the same score as Czech Republic. Florine Basque (184-F-92) shined for France with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Eleonore Grossemy (184-F-92) scored 12, while Lucie Barba (185-F-92) added 11 points, 10 boards and 5 assists. In Ukraine, Alina Iagupova (179-G-92) exploded with 41 points and 11 rebounds. She was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 35. Anna Kiriyenko (190-C-93) had 8 pts and 7 boards in this defeat.
This game is decided in the finish. France entered to last 4:48 with decent 60-53 lead. Alina Iagupova and her teammates didnt give up and they closed the gap to 60-59 with 1:57 to go. Eleonore Grossemy scored on free throw for France and Iagupova replied with two for Ukraine. In the last 90 seconds Ukraine missed three jump shots and two free throws. On the other side, committed two mistakes but they had the last possession in this game. Lucie Barba was sent to the line with 8 seconds to go. She made the first FT and missed the second one. Demchenko tried for 2 at the buzzer, but she missed and France grabbed 62-61 win.
In Day Two in Poprad, France will meet Turkey. Ukraine will play against Czech Republic.

France: Florine Basque 17+5 boards, Eleonore Grossemy 12, Lucie Barba 11+10 boards+5 as
Ukraine: Alina Iagupova 41+11 boards, Anna Kiriyenko 8+7 boards

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  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


English U18 National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket
#s#
Rheanne Bailey
Bailey
Gemma Bullard
Bullard
Renee E. Busch
Busch
Maisie Elston
Elston
Temitope Fagbenle
Fagbenle
#e#5
Rheanne Bailey 174-G/F-92
Gemma Bullard 177-G-92
Renee E. Busch 174-G-92 Sevenoaks S. United Kingdom
Maisie Elston 177-F-93 Sevenoaks S. United Kingdom
Temitope Fagbenle 191-F-92
Christina Gaskins 185-C-93 Barking Abbey United Kingdom
Olufemi Hamilton 170-G-93
Jessica Hurd 185-F/C-92 Nottingham W. United Kingdom
Rosie Hynes 172-G-93 Barking Abbey United Kingdom
Oritsetimeyin Oritsesan 178-F-92
Jennie Rodgers 181-G-92
Jamila Thompson 190-C-92 Barking Abbey United Kingdom

Michael Ball Head Coach Solent S. United Kingdom
Lee Ryan Assistant Solent S. United Kingdom


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  WNBA - Women  


Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Atlanta D. 9-4 
 2. Connecticut S. 8-4 
 3. Indiana F. 8-4 
 4. Washington M. 7-4 
 5. Chicago S. 5-8 
 6. New York L. 4-7 
Western
 1. Seattle S. 11-2 
 2. Phoenix M. 5-7 
 3. Minnesota L. 5-9 
 4. S.Antonio SS 4-7 
 5. Tulsa S. 3-8 
 6. L.Angeles S. 3-8 


Latest WNBA games - by Eurobasket News
FRIDAY

S.Antonio SS - Tulsa S. 101-85
Becky Hammon (5'6''-G-77, college: Colorado St.) scored 22 points to lead the San Antonio Silvers to a 101-85 victory over the Tulsa Shock on Friday night. Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) and Edwige Lawson-Wade (5'6''-G-79) each had 17 points, Michelle Snow (6'5''-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee) added 14, Chamique Holdsclaw (6'2''-F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee) 12 and Roneeka Hodges 11 for the Silver Stars (9-17), who won their second straight. Ivory Latta scored 19 points and Scholanda Robinson (5'10''-G-83, college: LSU) added 17 for the Shock (4-21), losers of six straight and 18 of their last 19. Young scored six points in an 8-0 run that gave the Silver Stars a 47-39 lead at halftime. *Courtesy of www.taragana.com

Chicago S. - Seattle S. 60-80
Swin Cash (6'2''-F-79, college: Connecticut) had 16 points to lead five players in double figures as the Seattle Storm beat the Chicago Sky 80-60 Friday night for their 13th consecutive win. Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) added 14 points, Svetlana Abrosimova (6'1''-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 13, Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) 11 and Camille Little 10 for Seattle (22-2). Bird also had eight assists as the Storm, who have already clinched the Western Conference title, improved to 13-0 at home. Sylvia Fowles scored 13 points to lead Chicago (12-14), which has lost three of four to drop to last place in the Eastern Conference. Courtesy of www.thenewstribune.com

Washington M. - Indiana F. 77-73
Lindsey Harding (5'8''-G-84, college: Duke) isn't showing any signs of her lingering hip injury. The Washington guard scored a career-high 33 points, including the team's final 13 of the game, to lead the Mystics to a 77-73 victory over the Indiana Fever on Friday night, snapping their three-game losing streak. Harding, slowed recently by the hip injury suffered earlier this month, averaged 7.6 points in the past six games entering Friday. Nakia Sanford (6'4''-F/C-76, college: Kansas) had 11 points and Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) added nine points and 11 rebounds for the Mystics (14-10), who took the season series from Indiana 3-1. Tamika Catchings and Katie Douglas both scored 16 for the Fever, and Tammy Sutton-Brown had 14 points to reach double figures for the first time since June 19. Indiana had its season-high five-game winning streak snapped. *Courtesy of www.msn.foxsports.com

L.Angeles S. - New York L. 79-88
Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) scored 20 points and the New York Liberty beat the struggling Los Angeles Sparks 88-79 Friday night. Janel McCarville (6'2''-C-82, college: Minnesota) had 15 points, Tay McWilliams-Franklin (6'3''-F/C-70, college: St.Edward's) added 14 points and nine rebounds and Plenette Pierson (6'2''-F/C-81, college: Texas Tech) also scored 14 to help New York (13-11) win for the fourth time in five games. The Liberty also moved into a tie with Connecticut for fourth place in the Eastern Conference, three games behind first-place Indiana. Tina Thompson scored 18 points and Marie Ferdinand-Harris added 17 for Los Angeles (8-17), which snapped a two-game winning streak. *Courtesy of www.newsvine.com

Atlanta D. - Connecticut S. 94-62
Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) scored 20 points and the Atlanta Dream used a 25-0 run bridging halftime to beat the Connecticut Sun 94-62 Friday night. Iziane Castro Marques (6'0''-G/F-82) had 17 points and Erika DeSouza (6'6''-C-82) added 13 points and 13 rebounds to help the Dream (17-9) hand the Sun the worst home loss in franchise history. Atlanta also moved percentage points behind first-place Indiana in the Eastern Conference. Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) scored 16 points and Sandrine Gruda added 10 for Connecticut (13-11), which dropped into a fourth-place tie with New York. The Sun's previous low-mark at home was a 75-46 loss to Indiana on May 27, 2008. *Courtesy of www.kxnet.com


THURSDAY

S.Antonio SS - Washington M. 79-75
Becky Hammon scored all of her 16 points in the second half and Chamique Holdsclaw added 17 points and 11 rebounds as the San Antonio Silver Stars beat the slumping Washington Mystics 79-75 on Thursday night. Sophia Young scored 16 points for the Silver Stars (9-15) who entered the game having lost eight of 11 overall and six of seven on the road, but have now won four in a row in Washington. Monique Currie (6'0''-G/F-83, college: Duke) scored seven of her 22 points in the second half for the Mystics (13-10), who have lost three consecutive and five of six since the All-Star break. *Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Minnesota L. - Phoenix M. 92-110
They're starting to cement their place. It's now clear that the Mercury are the second-best team in the Western Conference. For now, that's good enough. The Mercury handled the Minnesota Lynx 110-92 Thursday night in front of 7,037 at US Airways Center. The Mercury (11-13) have won six of their past eight games. The two losses were to the conference-leading Seattle Storm. The Mercury beat every Western Conference team in July except the only one they didn't play - San Antonio. On Thursday night, the Mercury scored a league-record 69 first-half points, had a season-high 78 points in the paint and six players who scored in double figures. Penelope Taylor (6'1''-F-81) scored 22 points to pace the Mercury, who also got double-figure scoring from Candice Dupree (6'2''-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) (18), Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) (16), Tangela Smith (11), DeWanna Bonner (14) and Kara Braxton (a season-high 20). Braxton was playing in her first game with the Mercury since being acquired in a trade last week. Charde Houston (6'1''-F-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) led the Lynx (7-16) with 26 points. *Courtesy of www.azcentral.com