EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/4/2010

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Igokea lands center Mladen Pantic - by Eurobasket News
Igokea continues with squad strengthening for the upcoming season. After hiring of new Head Coach Slobodan Klipa, the Adriatic league newcomer inked a one-year deal with the big guy Mladen Pantic (210-C-82, agency: Beo Basket). The 28-year-old Serbian is coming to Igokea from Radnicki Kragujevac. He appeared 22 times in Adriatic league last season averaging 9.3 points and 3.4 rebounds. He also played 13 games in Serbian league adding 10.1 ppg and 3.1 rpg. He helped Radnicki Kragujevac to reach the Playoff Semifinals.
Before Radnicki Kragujevac, Mladen Pantic changed three teams in 2008/09. He started with Greek Kavala, where he had 4.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 7 games in A1. During the season he moved to Mega Hypo Leasing Belgrade, where he added 10.3 ppg and 5.3 rpg in four games. In March of 2009, Pantic signed a short term deal with Keravnos Nicosia. Season 2006/07 Mladen Pantic spent with ALBA Berlin. He helped them to win the championship title with 2.7 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 25 games. In ULEB Cup, Pantic added 3 ppg and 2.7 rpg. Mladen Pantic is a product of FMP Zeleznik, where he played from 1999 to 2007.
Igokea also announced signing of contract extension with Marko Djerasimovic (200-F/G-84).

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  AUSTRALIA   


Central ABL Play-offs - by Eurobasket News
In the Elimination Final (4 v 5) Forestville Eagles overcame North Adelaide Rockets 86:76 and will face now Norwood Flames in the Semifinal. In another one West Adelaide Bearcats will play versus Sturt Sabres. The latter beat Norwood Flames 86:74.
The first Semifinals are set for August 7th.

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  AUSTRIA   


Austria edge Switzerland twice in Bernex - by Eurobasket News
Austria and Switzerland played two exhibition encounters in Bernex. Austria celebrated back-to-back victories.
Austria opened the series confidently. They quickly grabbed the initiative in the first game and recorded a 22:16 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 23-point distance at halftime. Austria did not loosen the grasp after the main break. They stayed in charge and posted a well-deserved 90:54 victory at the end. Stjepan Stazic (199-G-78, agency: World Sport Agency) came up with 21 points for Austria. Rasid Mahalbasic (210-F/C-90) produced 18 points, while Christoph Nagler (194-G-84) delivered 17 points for the winners. Oliver Vogt (209-C-80) answered with 17 points for the hosts.
Austria followed the same scenario in the second game of the series. The visitors grabbed a 7-point lead at the first break. Austria maintained the lead throughout the second quarter to pile up a 12-point buffer at halftime. Switzerland tried to revive the intrigue as they narrowed the gap at just 8 points with ten minutes to go. But Austria quickly picked up the slack and sealed the winning outcome at the end 85:70. Stjepan Stazic poured in 35 points to lead the effort. Matthias Mayer (205-C/F-81) had 13 points, while Jason Detrick (198-G-80, agency: BrezoPro, college: Oklahoma) netted 10 in the victory. Stefan Petkovic (186-G-92) dropped 12 points for Switzerland.


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  BELGIUM   


Mons Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Another day, another new player for Dexia Mons-Hainaut. This time they did not go far to find their player, the new player who signed a one year deal with the team is Dutch center Peter Van Paassen (211-C/F-78, St.Bonaventure) who played the previous season for Eiffel Towers Den Bosch. During his time in Amsterdam where he played 4 seasons, Shivek was his coach for 2 of those.
Won 2 titles with Amsterdam in 2008 and 2009 and was voted Player of the Year in both years. He previously played in Belgium for Oostende between 2001 and 2003.
This past season at Den Bosch he averaged 11.3 ppg and 6.0 rpg.


Belgium prevail against Netherlands in Leiden - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands - Belgium 59:82
Belgium celebrated the first win at the Nations Cup international tournament in Leiden, Netherlands. The impressive second half rally propelled them past hosts on the final day of action. Belgium thus improved at 1-2 record and wrapped up the tournament campaign in the third position. Jonathan Tabu (190-G-85) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Netherlands got to the better start. The hosts dominated in the starting quarter to enjoy a 22:13 lead ten minutes into the game. Netherlands kept their opponents at distance in the second frame. The Dutch team established a 14-point advantage at the interval. But the Lions changed the complexion of the game drastically after the big break. Belgium went on a 22:9 run to narrow the deficit to minimum. The visitors shocked Netherlands with a 29:6 surge in the final period to escape with a comfortable victory at the end.
Sam Van Rossom (188-G-86) scored 17 points for the winners. Jeff VanderJonckheyd (203-F-82, agency: Court Side) had 13 points for Belgium. Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) produced 12 points for Netherlands. Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, college: Portland) finished with 10 points in the loss.

Netherlands: Kees Akerboom 12, Robin Smeulders 10
Belgium: Jonathan Tabu 19, Sam Van Rossom 17, Jeff VanderJonckheyd 13


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  BOSNIA   


Bosna ASA BHT signs Marko Batina and Dino Hodzic - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Bosnian media, BC Bosna ASA BHT has announced signing of two young guards. Reportedly the club has reached agreements with Marko Batina (198-G-86) and Dino Hodzic (190-G-90). Both Batina and Hodzic are coming off a successful season in Croatian A1 league. Batina has played for BC Split while Hodzic was a member of Kastela. Both players are expected to be good reinforcements for Bosna and will join their new team in the coming days.
Marko Batina started his career with Bosna in 2003. Following season he was loaned to Hermes Analitica Zagreb where he appeared in 16 league games and has averaged 3.6 points and 1.3 rebounds per game. Following two years, Batina remained as loaned player at Hermes. At the beginning of 2007-2008 he signed a three year deal with Bosna. But in November of 2008, he has moved to BC Split. In his debut season, he appeared in 18 games averaging 4.2 points per game. Last season, he steadily improved, playing in 25 Adriatic League games and averaging 5.6 points and 1.9 rebounds. This season was statistically best for Batina as he appeared in 26 league matches and has posted averages of 11.9 points and 1.9 boards per contest.
Dino Hodzic appeared 25 times in Croatian league last season averaging 9.3 points, 3 rebounds and 1.8 assists. He started basketball career with Kenguri Zenica and in 2006 moved to Cibona youth selections. Dino Hodzic was a member of the Bosnian U16 and U18 National Team.

Igokea lands center Mladen Pantic - by Eurobasket News
Igokea continues with squad strengthening for the upcoming season. After hiring of new Head Coach Slobodan Klipa, the Adriatic league newcomer inked a one-year deal with the big guy Mladen Pantic (210-C-82, agency: Beo Basket). The 28-year-old Serbian is coming to Igokea from Radnicki Kragujevac. He appeared 22 times in Adriatic league last season averaging 9.3 points and 3.4 rebounds. He also played 13 games in Serbian league adding 10.1 ppg and 3.1 rpg. He helped Radnicki Kragujevac to reach the Playoff Semifinals.
Before Radnicki Kragujevac, Mladen Pantic changed three teams in 2008/09. He started with Greek Kavala, where he had 4.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 7 games in A1. During the season he moved to Mega Hypo Leasing Belgrade, where he added 10.3 ppg and 5.3 rpg in four games. In March of 2009, Pantic signed a short term deal with Keravnos Nicosia. Season 2006/07 Mladen Pantic spent with ALBA Berlin. He helped them to win the championship title with 2.7 ppg and 1.4 rpg for 25 games. In ULEB Cup, Pantic added 3 ppg and 2.7 rpg. Mladen Pantic is a product of FMP Zeleznik, where he played from 1999 to 2007.
Igokea also announced signing of contract extension with Marko Djerasimovic (200-F/G-84).

Buducnost brings in Marko Scekic - by Eurobasket News
The Montenegrin powerhouse Buducnost Podgorica signed Bosnian Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) for the upcoming season. The 29-year old power forward arrives to Buducnost from EWE Baskets Oldenburg, where he spent last two years. In 2009/10 he appeared 36 times in the German league averaging 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds. They also competed in Euroleague, where Scekic added 8.2 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 10 games. EWE Baskets Oldenburg was the German champion for season 2008/09. At that time Scekic helped them with 6.9 ppg and 3.7 rpg in 46 games. In EuroChallenge he added 6.5 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 16 appearances.
Before Oldenburg, Marko Scekic played one season in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec. He had 6.1 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 38 games in Polish league helping Turow to reach the Finals. In ULEB Cup Scekic added 7.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 15 games. From 2004 to 2007, Marko Scekic was a member of Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad. Before that he played few years for Borac Nektar Banja Luka. Scekic started basketball career with Drina Osiguranje Zvornik. He was a member of the Bosnian National Team in 2004.

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  BRAZIL   


Palmeiras will have their own team - by Paulo Freire
The Palmeiras club will no longer be a partner with the Lupo / Araraquara. The direct board of the club, that has the soccer as their main sport, has decided to manage their own basketball team.
Wihout having an franchise for the next NBB (National Basketball League), the men's basketball team of Palmeiras closed ther roster for the Paulista State Championship.
Before putting together the new roster, the club had already closed with coach Jos Alves Neto for the coaching job. Besides the 'Verdo' team commander, he is the assistant coach of Brazilian Nation Team, for coach Ruben Magnano.
The new players of the team are:
Thomas Melazzo (202-F-88, college: N.Mexico JC) who was playing in Sao Caetano and average 14.0 ppg in the last Novo Milênio Tournament.
Leo Crucillo (F-85) was playing for Sao Bernardo average 5.0 ppg in the last Novo Milênio Tournament. He also played for Santo Andre and Sao Joao.
Marcos Hubner (204-F/C-82, college: Abil.Christian) was playing for Sorocaba and average 10.0 ppg in the last Novo Milenio Tournament.
Mudo dos Santos (194-F-77) in the last NBB playing for Sao Jose dos Campos, average 5.8 ppg and 1.7 rpg.
Carlos Ferro (198-F-84)
Gustavo Rocha (193-G-84)
Elijah Ingram (185-G, agency: Jose Medalha EC, college: N.Mexico St.)



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  CANADA   


Carl English joins Joventut - by Eurobasket News
Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) will play for Joventut in the upcoming season. The 29-year-old guard spent the previous season in Caja Laboral. He tallied 8.2 points, 2.6 boards and 1.1 assists per game in EuroCup. In ACB Carl English notched 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. The guard participated at the 2009 FIBA Americas tournament in Puerto Rico. Carl English averaged 12.5 points, 3.6 boards and 2.5 assists per game in San Juan.


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  CHINA   


Chinese NBL round 17 best performance: Terrell Taylor - by Eurobasket News
American center Terrell Taylor (203-C-81, agency: Liman Sports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Guangzhou Liu Sui Whampoa, receiving a Asia-basket.com NBL Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 29-year old player had a double-double of 40 points and 18 rebounds, while his team beat W.Liaoning (#7, 7-10) 117-108. Whampoa maintains the 6th position in Chinese NBL. Whampoa is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 8-10 record. In the team's last game Taylor had a remarkable 58.3% from 2-point range. He turned to be Whampoa's top player in his first season with the team. Former Virginia Tech star has very solid stats this year. Taylor is in league's top in points (6th best: 27.2ppg), rebounds (7th best: 14.5rpg) and averages impressive 59.8% FGP.
The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old American Dante Milligan (206-F-84, agency: ZAG Advocates) of Heilongjiang Zhaozhou Feng Shen. Milligan had a very good evening with a double-double of 33 points and 15 rebounds. Bad luck as Heilongjiang lost that game 92-113 to the higher-ranked Guangzhou FM (#3, 10-7). Heilongjiang managed to keep the same 9th spot in the standings. 13 lost games is too many comparing to just four victories Heilongjiang managed to get this year. Milligan is a newcomer at Heilongjiang, but is already the team's top player. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 30.0ppg (#1). He also registered 16.1 boards per game.
Third on the list of top players last round was U.S. Virgin Isl. guard Julius Hodge (201-G-83) of Guangzhou Free Man (#3). Hodge showcased his all-around game by recording 28 points, nine rebounds and eleven assists (!!!) in the last round. He was a key player of Guangzhou FM, leading his team to a 113-92 easy win against the lower-ranked Heilongjiang (#9, 4-13). Guangzhou FM needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 10 victories and 7 lost games. The season just started for Hodge as he played only first game. But it already looks like he can be team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Edward Basden (196-G/F-83) of W.Liaoning - 33 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Quincy Davis (206-F/C-83) of Jiangsu - 29 points and 16 rebounds
6. Marc Dawson (206-F/C-83) of Guangzhou FM - 28 points, 20 rebounds and 2 assists
7. T.J. Bannister (180-G-84) of Sichuan - 32 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Shawn Taggart (207-F-85) of Jiyuan - 27 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Austen Powers (203-F-87) of Hangzhou - 22 points and 17 rebounds
10. Justin Johnson (198-G-86) of Jiangsu - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists

Adidas Nations Camp in USA - by Robert Wang
Adidas Nations in Chicago, Illinois. Ten players that come from China will be members of Team Asia during the event: Yang Jinmeng, Li Qingxiang, Zhou Qi, Ge Zhaobao, Xing Zhiqiang, Heng Yifeng, Wei Zhengxian, Si Yuheng, Hu Yihan and Liu Zhixuan.Head Coach: Frank Johnson: 14 -year NBA veteran; Former Head Coach, Phoenix Suns
Assistant Coaches: Chris Rivers and Li Ren,NBA Mentor: Robin Lopez (Phoenix Suns).Adidas Nations brings together the top 18 and under basketball players to compete in an international exhibition under the guidance of highly esteemed NBA veterans, coaches and players.


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  CROATIA   


Mario Kasun to sign with BC Zagreb? - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from various Croatian media, BC Zagreb is set to bring in a great reinforcement. Reportedly the club has reached one-year agreement with Mario Kasun (213-C-80) with an option for 2011/12 season. Kasun, spent previous two years with Efes Pilsen and would represent a great reinforcement under the basket. Kasuns signing will definitely put Zagreb as one of the contenders for the National Title next season. It remains to be seen in the coming days if the transfer will really go through or it will end just as a rumour.
Mario Kasun started his career with Zrinjevac Zagreb, and has also played for Rhein Energy Cologne and Frankfurt Opel Skyliners in Germany before heading to the NBA. In 2002 he was drafted by Los Angeles Clippers as 41st pick in 2nd round but he did not play a single game. In 2004, he signed with Orlando Magic, but after failing to impress in 2 seasons there he returned to Winterthur F.C. Barcelona in 2006. After 2 years at Barcelona, Kasun signed with Efes Pilsen at the start of 2008/2009. He missed big part of the season due to the injury making one appearance in Euroleague with 8 points. Last season however, Kasun has been a valuable member of the team. He has averaged 8.0 points and 5.8 rebounds in 16 Euroleague matches. He has also helped Efes win the National Cup, while in the Turkish league he has posted averages of 8.2 points and 4.2 rebounds in 32 appearances. He is a member of Croatian National Team with whom he participated in European Championships in 2005, 2007 and 2009.

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  CYPRUS   


Will Christopoulos be back? - by Dr. Nasios Orinos
Coach Giannis Christopoulos has joined his name with wining the 2009-2010 basketball championship as a head coach of Madisons Apoel Nicosia.
It seems that Apoel and Christopoulos have reached a financial agreement and there is a strong possibility that the Greek coach will lead Apoel next year.

Love Cyprus Basketball Tournament:
Between the 6th-8th of August Cypriot basketball fans have the chance to enjoy the Greek National Team with all its stars.
Schedule:
6th- Greece vs Germany at 'Tassos Papadopoulos-Eleftheria' Nicosia
7th- Greece vs Russia at 'Spyros Kyprianou' Limassol
8th- Greece vs Coatia at 'Tassos Papadopoulos-Eleftheria' Nicosia
The Greek national team will also confont the Cypriot national team on Wednesday the 4th of August, at 'Tassos Papadopoulos-Eleftheria' Nicosia.
Game begins at 19:30.



Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD Agios Dometios:
The Agios Dhometios team after signing the Head Coach Marios Argyrou proceeded in the following transactions. David Fox will be the new Assistant Coach of the Cypriot Head Coach while the Veteran player Panagiotis Serdaris (195-G/F-74) after one year off courts is returning back to Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD Agios Dometios after signing an one years cotnract.
At the same time the two local players Loizos Hatzivasileiou (202-C-83) and Stelios Filippou have renewed their contracts for another one seazon
Achilleas Kaimakliou:
The ex international Cypriot guard Grigoris Pantouris (190-G/F-82, agency: High Post Agency) agreed financial terms with the Kaimali team for the next two years
Keravnos Strovolou:
The Strovolos team together with ETHA have the most updated rosters, last week Memos Ioannou and Keravnos Management agreed to join forces with another Serb, this time it was Miladin Pekovic (196-G/F-83) to wear the red/yellow jersey of the Strovolos team.
Proteas EKA AEL Limassol:
The Limassol team agreed financial terms after long discussions with Giorgos Palalas (185-G-81), the Cyprus guard will be wearing the yellow jersey of AEL for the coming three years
Behind the scenes news
Madisons Apoel Nicosia is ready to sign the ex AEL's player Alexis Liatsos (200-F-80, college: Ohio)
Keravnos is very close to sign a well known American center



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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Former Nymburk Guard Ron Lewis Lands in Belgium - by Surujh Roopnarine
Fourth-year guard Ron Lewis (193-G-84, college: Ohio St.), a member of CEZ Nymburk's 2009-10 NBL Championship squad has signed to play with Dexia Mons Hainut this upcoming season. Lewis, a 6-5 guard out of Ohio State had a terrific season in the Czech Republic., helping Nymburk to the Eurocup quarterfinals while capturing their unprecedented seventh-consecutive League Championship. In 54 games (including playoffs) Lewis averaged 12.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting 56.4% (2FGP), 35.8% from three and 82.3% from the free-throw line. In 14 contests during Eurocup play, he averaged 11.4 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 50.7% from the field.
Lewis returns to Belgium where he began his pro career in 2007 with Spotter Leuven. Mons Hainut finished in sixth position last season (15-17), but by qualifying for the Belgian league play-offs will take part in the Eurochallenge competition.


Lithuania hold off Czech Republic in friendly - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Czech Republic 93:84 (OT)
Lithuania overcame Czech Republic in the exhibition clash in Panevezys. Paulius Jankunas (203-F-84, agency: Interperformances) tallied 25 points and 12 rebounds to pace the hosts.
The teams eagerly traded baskets in the opening frame. They teamed up for 29 points in ten minutes as Lithuania earned a narrow 25:24 lead. The hosts gradually took over in the second term. Lithuania cleared off to a 7-point halftime advantage. Czech Republic bounced back in the third stanza. They limited the home team to just 11 points in the frame and surged ahead. The visitors ensured a one-point advantage with ten minutes to go 61:60. Lithuania erased the deficit in the fourth quarter. They drew things level at 75 at the end of regulation. The teams went into overtime. Lithuania stepped on the gas in the extra frame. They poured in 18 points to celebrate the victory at the end. Renaldas Seibutis (196-G-85) and Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) scored 10 points each for Lithuania. Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) had 9 points for the winners. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) replied with 18 points for Czech Republic. Pavel Slezak (185-G-84) netted 15 points in defeat.

Lithuania: Paulius Jankunas 25+12 boards, Renaldas Seibutis 10, Jonas Maciulis 10
Czech Republic: Pavel Houska 18, Pavel Slezak 15


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  D-LEAGUE   


Ex-D-Leaguers Poised to Play Important Roles at Eurobasket 2011 Qualifying - by Surujh Roopnarine
Yesterday began the quest of 15 nations as they try to advance and qualify for five available spots for the 2011 European Championships (Eurobasket 2011) in Lithuania next summer. Here we will look at the NBA D-League alum that, either through birth or nationalization, will be playing in these qualifying rounds with the hope of moving their country closer to Lithuania.
Bulgaria
Earl Calloway (6'3''-G-83, college: Indiana) (Ft. Wayne Mad Ants, 07-08): 6-3 point guard played 27 minutes in 67-59 victory over Portugal yesterday. A Georgia native, Calloway finished his collegiate career at Indiana after beginning at New Mexico State. Solid as a Hoosier, his breakout performance came in the D-League where he was fourth in the league in scoring (19.0ppg) and assists (5.8apg) for the Mad Ants. The rest of his career has seen Calloway progressing up the European league hierarchy. First in Croatia with perennial Adriatic League powers Cibona and then last season in the ACB of Spain with Sevilla. A do-everything type of guard, Calloway is not a lights out scorer at the European level, but can run a team as well as most and has excellent court-vision and a reliable jump-shot.
Georgia
Taurean Green (6'0''-G-85, college: Florida) (Colorado 14ers, 07-08): Starting point guard for Floridas back-to-back NCAA champion squads, Green scored nine points in 28 minutes as Georgia upset Poland. Was drafted #52 in the 2007 NBA Draft, but saw limited action in rookie season split between Denver in the NBA and Colorado of the D-League. Least season Green averaged a career high 15.1 points while playing for AEK Athens in Greece, earning him All-Star status. Recently granted a Georgian passport, Green is not the main focus of the national team, with NBA veteran Zaza Pachulia and forward Viktor Sanikidze leading the way. However, his ability to penetrate and dish or score will be relied upon, especially if he can set up sweet-shooting big Nikoloz Tskitishvili for three.
Great Britain
Pops Mensah-Bonsu (6'9''-F-83, college: George Washington) (Ft. Worth Flyers, 06-07 / Austin Toros, 08-09): Probably the former D-Leaguer with the greatest influence on his teams chances of qualifying, the super-charged Mensah-Bonsu is in his third year of British National Team duty. Born in London, his game was refined at George Washington University and then the D-League where he was the 2007 All-Star Game MVP while with Ft. Worth. The 6-9, 240 pound power forward holds NBA career averages of 3.3 points and 3.1 rebounds over three seasons split between Dallas, San Antonio, Toronto and Houston. In addition to his dominating the D-League (34 games: 18.4ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.6bpg, 57.5% FGP), Pops has played in Europe for Benetton Treviso (Italy), DKV Joventut Badalona (Spain) and most recently CSKA Moscow (Russia). In Britains opening game victory over Hungary, Pops was brilliant on the boards, collecting a game high 18 to go along with 14 points on 6-9 shooting from the field.
Montenegro
Omar Cook (6'1''-G-82, college: St.John's) (Fayetteville Patriots, 01-02, 02-03, 03-04, 04-05): 153 career D-League games; third all-time in assists (1135), second in steals (286), 10th in minutes played (4862). The New York born and bred Cook, still only 28, has been at this a long time. After leaving the D-League (and NBA) for good after the 04-05 season, Cook has established himself as one of the true floor-generals of elite European basketball. After dominating in Belgium, Russia and Serbia, Cook spent the last two seasons with Spanish powerhouse Unicaja Malaga, where he finished in the top-two in assists in Euroleague play both years. Joining the Montenegrin National Team in 2008, he helped them advance from Division B in 2009 and now, competing for a place in Eurobasket 20111, dished out six assists to go along with 11 points as the crushed Latvia 96-66 in their opening contest. While he may not have lived up to the hype coming out of High School and St. Johns in terms of NBA stardom, Cook has had and will continue to have a fine career playing in, and staring in some of the top competitions Europe has to offer. Teamed with possibly the best front-line in the competition; all-Europe bog man Nikola Pekovic, former Knicks draft pick Slavko Vranes and ex-NBA center Pedrag Drobnjak, Montenegro may shock traditional powers as they roll forward in their continued development.

Poland
Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84) (Anaheim Arsenal, 07-08): Though his stay in the D-League (5 games: 9.8ppg, 6.8rpg) was brief, Gortat has become one of the more prominent international big men over the last two seasons. Through a heated contract negation after the 2008-09 season, which essentially made him an extremely highly paid backup to Dwight Howard, to his emerged presence as arguably the most important player on Polands National Team, Gortat has ascended the basketball world. On his countrys home soil at Eurobasket 2009, Gortat had a strong performance, averaging 14.3 points, 10.8 rebounds and 2.0 blocks though Poland struggled to a disappointing 10th place finish. In their opening round upset loss to Georgia, the Orlando Magic big man was limited to 10 points and 3 rebounds in 28 minutes.

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  EGYPT   


Darren kelly joins Ithad and Mada Abd El Hameed signes for Gezira - by Sherif Soliman
It seems that competition will start very early between Itthad and Gezira .Amr abo elkhier Itthad coach couldnt forget what happened in Alexandria during the semi -final game in the Arab league when Darren kelly punished Itthad by not letting his team to reah the final game, scoring more than 40 points,Amr Abo Elkhier worked to join Darren for 170K contract which is considered the highest contract in the league till now.Also Ahmed Marie searched all this summer to cover his team weakness under the rim, he signed Kerdany,Alexander macclean and he got Mada Abd El hameed (EGY-Newzealand) forward. However, everyone is waiting for the new league regulations from the EBF to add more Intertament to the game Mada Abdelhamid (198-C)

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  FRANCE   


Paris-Levallois signs Marcellus Sommerville to a one-year deal - by Eurobasket News
Paris-Levallois continues with signings this summer. Their latest addition is the American forward Marcellus Sommerville (200-F-82, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Bradley). The 28-year-old player is coming to Paris-Levallois from Cholet Basket, where he arrived in December last year. He helped Cholet to win the title with 7.4 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 19 games. Sommerville started last season with Chalon. For 8 games with them he added 9.9 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 1.3 spg.
It was not the first season for Marcellus Sommerville in France. He arrived for the first time in January of 2007 signing a contract with Angers BC 49. In 2007/09 Somerville was a member of STB Le Havre. At that time he shined with 14.1 ppg, 6 rpg and 1.7 apg for 30 games in ProA. Roanne grabbed the player after that and Somerville also was great averaging 15.1 ppg and 4.6 rpg. However, he got injured during the season and missed few months, after what he joined Dexia Mons-Hainaut (March 2009). He helped them to reach the Playoff Finals in Belgium with 9.6 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 8 games.
Marcellus Sommerville is a product of Bradley, where he graduated in 2006.

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  GERMANY   


Germany knock down Sweden in Leiden - by Eurobasket News
Germany - Sweden 82:66
Germany finished the Nations Cup international tournament in Leiden on a high note. They fired past Sweden for 2-1 record. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) scored 16 points to lead Germany.
The German team confidently opened the encounter. They accounted for as many as 28 points in the starting quarter. Germany thus built a 5-point lead at the first break. They kept their opponents at bay throughout the second period. Germany cleared off to an 18-point distance but Sweden stopped the bleeding. They pulled within 7 at halftime 39:46. Germany gave little chance for their opponents in the third quarter. They dominated almost every facet of the game and recorded 60:51 advantage with ten minutes remaining. The gap quickly grew at 15-point mark and Germany did not look back en route to the victory.
Konrad Wysocki (202-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) finished with 11 points for Germany. Lucca Staiger (196-G-88, college: Iowa St.) and Tim Ohlbrecht (211-C/F-88) provided 9 points each for the winners. Jonathan Skjoldebrand (203-C/F-83) answered with 14 points for Sweden. Martin Pahlmblad (193-G-86) delivered 12 points in the losing effort.

Germany: Robin Benzing 16, Konrad Wysocki 11, Lucca Staiger 9, Tim Ohlbrecht 9
Sweden: Jonathan Skjoldebrand 14, Martin Pahlmblad 12


Stahnsdorf brings in Mychal Green - by Moritz Korff
RSV Eintracht Stahnsdorf (2. Bundesliga Pro B) has bolstered its backcourt by adding Mychal Green (193-G-83, college: Ohio) to the roster. The 27-year-old combo guard joins RSV from Licher Basket Baeren. The former student athlete of Ohio University (NCAA1) appeared in 15 games for the Bears in this past season, registering 20.1 points, 5.8 boards, 2.5 assist and 2 steals per contest. Prior to his stint in Lich, Green garnered international experience playing in New Zealand.

Marko Scekic Departs From The EWE Baskets Oldenburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

29 year old 207cm Serbian forward Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) will not be playing for 2009 BEKO BBL champion EWE Baskets Oldenburg in the upcoming season. He has signed a contract with Euroleague qualifying team BC Buducnost. Scekic played for Oldenburg from 2008-2010 and was an importnant role player for the club. In the 2008-2009 season, he played 46 games: 6.9ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 61.8%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 59.8%; EuroChallenge: 16 games: 6.5ppg, 2.9rpg, FGP-3 (75.6%), 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 63.2%. Last season, he played Euroleague: 10 games: 8.2ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 52.9%; German League: 36 games: 8.7ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.1apg, FGP-1 (69.8%), 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 68.0%. Oldenburg Predrag Krunic had only positive words for Scekic. 'I thank Marko for two great years here. He always worked hard and showed his worth for the team. I wish him a lot of success with his new team and hope that he can play Euroleague', stressed Oldenburg coach Predrag Krunic

Source: www.ewe-baskets.de



Herzoege Wolfenbuettel adding size for 2010-2011 season - by Moritz Korff
2. Bundesliga Pro B team Herzoege Wolfenbuettel has signed 7-2 center Michael Boone (218-C-86, college: Cal-Davis). The Chicago, Ill. native stands as the tallest player in the history of the UC Davis (NCAA1) basketball program. Though Boone produced only low stats for the Aggies through the years (20 games: 2.1ppg, 1.3rpg as a senior during 2008-09), the Wolfenbuettel team hopes to benefit from Boone's tremendous size on both ends of the floor. Competing in several United States minor leagues Boone gained some professional experience following his graduation from UC-Davis.

Regionaliga Transfer News - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

ASC 46 Goettingen have announced that two very important players from last season with Timo Bode (205-C) and Johannes Sandloff (195-F-85) will play another season in the university season. Bode is a 205cm center that played 18 games last season averaging 19,3ppg and Sandloff is a 25 year old 195cm forward that played 18 games last season averaging 6.2ppg. 'Timo gives us a lot of stability under the basket. It is very important that he stays. Sandloff always gives 120%', stressed assistant coach Miroslav Vorkapic.

BG DEK/Fichte Hagen have announced that Dennis Shirvan (185-G-83) will be playing for the club this season. Shirvan is a 27 year old 185cm guard that played for the NOMA Iserlohn Kangaroos since 2007.'Dennis Shirvan fits perfect to the team and knows the league. We are happy that he ahd interest to coming back to play here', stressed BG DEK/Fichte Hagen CEO Fredi Rissmann. Shirvan played in Hagen from 2002-2006.
'Ich



Basketball World Traveller Lamarr Greer Joins The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig have brought in basketball globetrotter LaMarr Greer (196-G-76, agency: Buck Andre, college: Florida St.) for the 2010-2011 basketball season. Greer is a 34 year old 196cm guard from Cape May Court House New Jersey. He is starting his 13th professional basketball season and Germany will be his ninth country where he has laced up the sneakers. Last season, the American played in Jordan and Israel for ASU Sports Club (Jordan-Premier League, starting five), in Dec.'09 moved to Ironi Nahariya (Israel-Premier League): 14 games: 14.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 64.5%. Phantoms head coach Sebastian Machowski is sure that Greer will help move his club in the right direction. 'Lamarr has proved for many top teams that he can play. I am sure that he will help us right away. He has good hands and a good shot. He is an improvement for us and the league', stressed Sebastian Machowski (agency: Limelight Hoops )
Greer grew up in Cape May Court House and played his high school ball at Middle Township. He was the New Jersey High School Player of the Year in 1994 and ed Middle Township to two Group II state titles. he is a second team Parade All-American and he scored 13 points in the McDonald's All-Star game and had 16 points and 10 assists in Magic's Roundball Classic. He played at Florida St from 1994-1998 and in his senior year played 32 games averaging 11.1ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 39.6%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 75.0%. He started his professional basketball career in the States playing in the USBL and IBl from 1998-2000. He then crossed the pond in 2000 and played in Italy for Record Napoli (Italy-A2): 21games: 18ppg, 4rpg, 3.4apg. In 2001-2002, he stayed in Italy playing for Media Broker Messina (Italy-Lega2): 42 games: 19.4ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.1apg, 2.5spg. In 2002, he continued playing in Italy for Pompea Napoli (Italy-LegaA): 40 games: 16.6ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.9apg, 2.0spg, 2FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 82.3%. In 2003-2004, he played in Russia for Uniks Kazan (Russia-A Superleague): released just before season ended: FIBA Europe League: 15 games: 12.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg; Russian A Superleague: 34 games: 11,9ppg, 3.1rpg, 4.1apg, 1.2spg. In 2004-2005, he played for BC Kyiv (Ukraine-Superleague): FIBA Europe League: 19 games: 17.8ppg, 4.1rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 55.3%, 3Pts: 31.7%; Ukrainian Superleague: 38 games: 17.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 5.6apg, 1.3spg, 0.0bpg, 2FGP: 60,3%, 3FGP: 42,3%, FTP: 53,7%. In 2005-2006, he continued to play for BC Kyiv (Ukraine-Superleague), injured in Oct.'05 and was sidelined for two months: FIBA Europe Cup: 11 games: 14.8ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 47.6%, 3FGP: 37.7%, FT: 84.3%; Ukrainian Superleague: 29 games: 13.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.7apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 32.7%, FT: 84.6%. In 2006-2007, he played another season for BC Kyiv (Ukraine-Superleague, starting five): FIBA EuroCup: 4 games: 16.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 4.5apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 53.5%, 3FGP: 25%, FT: 70%. In 2007-2008, he played in Greece for Olimpia GE Larissa (Greece-A1, starting five): got injured in Dec.'07 and missed rest of season: 5 games: 10.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.3apg; FIBA EuroCup: 2 games: 20.0ppg, 1.5rpg, 3.5apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 50%, 3PT: 53.8%, FT: 81.3% In 2008-2009 he played in Cyprus for Keravnos Strovolou EuroChallenge: 6 games: 17.0ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.7apg, 1.2spg; Cypriot League: Score-2 (16.0ppg), 3.2rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 46.8%, FT: 76.1%.
Source: www.newyorkerphantoms.de



Brose Baskets Bamberg Give 2010 NBA Draft Pick Tibor Pleiss Contract Extension - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Some players might of jumped out of Bamberg as quickly as a frog might escaping an oncoming snake to get to play in the NBA, but not Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) who has decided to stay in the bavarian city and further develop his unique basketball craft. Pleiss is a 20 year old 214cm power forward/center who recently was drafted at position #1 in the second round of the 2010 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets and later traded to the Oklahoma Thunder who have the rights to the young German for the next three years. Pleiss has developed nicely in Bamberg and last season won the BEKO BBL league title and cup against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners and played EuroCup: 14 games: 8.1ppg, 5.4rpg, FGP: 54.4%, FT: 77.1%; German League: 45 games: 8.0ppg, 5.9rpg, Blocks-2 (1.3bpg), FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 70.8%. Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming is pleased that the big man decided to stay in Bamberg for now. 'I think that playing time and development is the most important thing now for Tibor. I am sure that there are many players that would of taken the offers in Madrid and Rome. That he decided to stay in Bamberg speaks for the charachter of Tibor. Now he needs to learn to get used to the high expectations. He may not have the status of a very young player, but we cant forget that he is only 20 years old. I think the World Championships soon will help him a lot', stressed bamberg head coach Chris Fleming
Pleiss started his professional basketball career with Rhein Energie Cologne in 2006 and played there until 2009. He won the German cup in 2007. He also has had expereince playing for the German U-18 and U-20 national teams and played for The German National team at the 2009 European Championships playing 3 games: 1.3ppg, 1.0rpg. He also won numerous eurobasket awards for the 2009-2010 season including Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Most Improved Player of the Year, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Domestic Player of the Year, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team and Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team .
Source: www.brose-baskets-bamberg.de



Steven Clauss New Assitant Coach In Ludwigsburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

After losing assistnan coach Tyrone Mccoy to the Artland Dragons, it didnt take EnBW Ludwigsburg long to find a replacement as they got Steven Clauss . Clauss is not unknown to German basketball as he has years of rich basketball experience. His last job was as sport director of the DDB (deutscher Basketball Bund). 'I am looking forward to the basketball in Ludwigsburg and bringing my expereince to the team', stated Steven clauss. 'I am looking forward to working with Steven. We have found a guy that has experience and is competent', stated Ludwigsburg CEO Alexander Reil . New Ludwigsburg coach Markus Jochum knows Clauss since many years. 'I am looking forward to working with him and he will be a big help to the team with his basketball know how and contacts', stated EnBW Ludwigsburg coach Markus Jochum. Clauss started his coaching career with 23 years coaching the Kronberg womens team. He also worked as the German womens National coach from 1999-2001, as assistant coach in Bamberg and was assistant coach with The Deutsche Bank Skyliners and helped build the basketball academy Rhein-Main.
Source: www.enbw-ludwigsburg.de



The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Haul In Jermaine Thomas - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven continue to build their roster for the upcoming season signing Jermaine Thomas (186-G-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: La Salle) to a one year contract. Thomas is a 26 year old 186cm guard from Frederick, Maryland. Last season, Thomas played in Hungary for Polaroid Lami-Ved Kormend playing 33 games averaging 15.7ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.4apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 43.4%, FT: 86.3%. Bremerhaven coach Doug Spradley is confident with his hunch that Thomas will help his team. 'I got to know Jermaine this past summer at a camp in North Carolina. He should give us stabilty at the guard position. He knows what he has to do to have success. He can be a player that takes control and can play the position two', stressed Eisbaeren coach Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops )

Thomas started his basketball career at La Salle and played there from 2002-2006. In his senior year, he played 28 games: 12.3ppg, 4.3rpg, 3.9apg, 1.3spg, FG: 41.5%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 82.1%. In the 2006-2007 season, he turned professional and went to Europe to Hungary to Gunaras KC Dombvr playing 22 games and averaging 16.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.5apg, 2.0spg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 78.0%. In 2007-2008, he played for MAFC Budapest (Hungary-A Division, starting five): 11 games: 13.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.1apg, 2.1spg, 2FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 86.1%, in Dec.`07 moved to BC Lami-Ved Kormend (Hungary-A Division, starting five): 13 games: 15.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.4apg, 2.3spg, 2FGP: 67.3%, 3PT: 39%, FT: 81.1%. In 2008-2009, he gained expereince playing in Austria for UBC koStadt Gussing Knights (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 30 games: 17.8ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.0apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 64.3%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 79.8%.
Source: www.eisbaeren-bremerhaven.de



Ryan Appleby Joins Phoenix Hagen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Phoenix Hagen had no problems last season shooting, but had difficulty with their aim and won no prizes with shutting out the lights of opponents, but hope that Ryan Appleby (188-G-84, college: Washington) can help with the field goal percentag this season from outside giving him a contract. Appleby is a 26 year old 188cm guard from Stanwood, Washington.Last season, he played for the Seattle Aviators (NABL) and now gets his first shot of raising eyebrows with his shooting in Europe. Despite no experience in Europe, Phoenix Hagen coach Ingo Freyer has been a fan of the Washington native for some time. 'We already had contact to Ryan last season, but we were unable to get him. We are counting on him to improve our poor shooting from last season. He is a guard, but has the mentality of a scorer. That will help us. WithZygimantas Jonusas and Ryan Appleby, we have two very good shooters', warned Phoenix Hagen head coach Ingo Freyer

Appleby played at Stanwood high school where he averaged 24ppg. His role model as a player was the famous snipper Pistol Pete Maravich. He played in the NCAA for Washington from 2005-2008. In his senior year, he played ): 26 games: 11.2ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 39.2%, 3Pts: 38.5%, FT: 85.2%. He reached the NACC Sweet 16 in 2006 and 2008.
Source: www.phoenix-hagen.de



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  HOLLAND   


Peter Van Paassen loaned to Dexia Mons-Hainault - by Fred Roggen
The Dutch center is loaned for one year to the Belgian team of Dexia Mons-Hainault. Peter Van Paassen (211-C/F-78, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure) played the previous season for Eiffel Towers Den Bosch. During his time in Amsterdam where he played 4 seasons, Shivek was two years his coach. He won 2 titles with Amsterdam in 2008 and 2009 and was voted Player of the Year in both years. He previously played in Belgium for Oostende between 2001 and 2003. This past season at Den Bosch he averaged 11.3 ppg and 6.0 rpg.


Belgium prevail against Netherlands in Leiden - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands - Belgium 59:82
Belgium celebrated the first win at the Nations Cup international tournament in Leiden, Netherlands. The impressive second half rally propelled them past hosts on the final day of action. Belgium thus improved at 1-2 record and wrapped up the tournament campaign in the third position. Jonathan Tabu (190-G-85) stepped up with 19 points to lead the winners.
Netherlands got to the better start. The hosts dominated in the starting quarter to enjoy a 22:13 lead ten minutes into the game. Netherlands kept their opponents at distance in the second frame. The Dutch team established a 14-point advantage at the interval. But the Lions changed the complexion of the game drastically after the big break. Belgium went on a 22:9 run to narrow the deficit to minimum. The visitors shocked Netherlands with a 29:6 surge in the final period to escape with a comfortable victory at the end.
Sam Van Rossom (188-G-86) scored 17 points for the winners. Jeff VanderJonckheyd (203-F-82, agency: Court Side) had 13 points for Belgium. Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) produced 12 points for Netherlands. Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, college: Portland) finished with 10 points in the loss.

Netherlands: Kees Akerboom 12, Robin Smeulders 10
Belgium: Jonathan Tabu 19, Sam Van Rossom 17, Jeff VanderJonckheyd 13


Craig Osaikhwuwuomwam signs contract with ABC Amsterdam - by Fred Roggen
Dutch U-20 center Craig Osaikhwuwuomwam (196-F-90) signed today an agreement with ABC Amsterdam. Craig Osaikhwuwuomwam is 19 years and played this summer with the Dutch U-20 team at the European Championship in Croatia. He played an average of fifteen minutes per game and came up with 6.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 0.4 blocked shots per game.
Head coach Hakim Salem welcomes the arrival of Craig Osaikhwuwuomwam: 'Last season, Craig has gained experience in Italy by Snaidero Udinese'.


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  ISRAEL   


Marco Killingsworth heads to Haifa - by Eurobasket News
Marco Killingsworth will play for Maccabi Haifa in the next season. The 28-year-old forward played for Netanya in the previous championship. He tallied 17.4 points, 7.4 boards, 1.9 assists and 1.5 steals per appearance. Earlier Marco Killingsworth had spells for Durassafaka in Turkey, KCC Egis in South Korea, Brindisi and Scafati in Italy.


Maccabi Haifa signed Marco Killingworth - by Ofer Shamur
This evening (Tuesday), Maccabi Haifa announced the signing of Marco Killingworth (203-f-27) for one season. Last season Killingworth played for Maccabi Netanya, and led the team to the Israeli final four while averaging 17.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game. Last season Marco was one of the leading players in the Israeli league, and we are very excited about his coming said Jeff Rosen, Haifas owner.
Killingworth is the 9th player to be signed in Haifa, after Derrek Glasser , Sasa Bartic, Sylvan Landasberg , Frank Robinson, Jonhatan Nir , Ben-Chimol Avi , Robert Rothbart and Derrick Low.


Maccabi Haifa Signed Marco Killingsworth - by Ofer Shamur
This evening (Tuesday), Maccabi Haifa Heat announced the signing of Marco Killingsworth for one season. Last season Killingsworth played for Elizur Natanya, and led the team to the Israeli final four while averaging 17.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game. Last season Marco was one of the leading players in the Israeli league, and we are very excited about his coming', said Jeff Rosen, Haifa's owner.
Killingsworth is the 9th player to be signed in Haifa, after Derrek Glasser , Sylvan Landasberg , Frank Robinson, Jonhatan Nir , Ben-Chimol Avi , Robert Rothbart and Derrick Low.


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  ITALY   


Enel Brindisi tab Edin Bavcic - by Eurobasket News
The newly promoted Seria A side Enel Brindisi strengthened their frontcourt. They signed a deal with Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket). The 26-year-old centre played in Slovenia in the previous season. The Bosnian player averaged 5.2 points and 4.0 rebounds per Euroleague game for Union Olimpija. In Adriatic League Edin Bavcic tallied 5.7 points and 2.6 rebounds. In Slovenian League his stats read 11.4 points and 6.3 boards per game.


Air Avellino signs Reyshawn Terry, Vanoli Cremona adds Joel Zacchetti - by Eurobasket News
Air Avellino signed Reyshawn Terry (203-F-84, college: N.Carolina) for the next season. The American forward returns to Italy after one year. He spent 2009/10 season in Spain with Xacobeo BS averaging 12.1 points and 4.9 rebounds for 34 games. His team faced with relegation and will compete in LEB Gold next season. Terry arrived to Italy for the first time in December of 2008 signing a contract with Vanoli Soresina. He played 8 games for them in LegaDue registering 16.5 ppg and 8.3 rpg. In January he moved to La Forteza Bologna adding 5.8 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 16 SerieA games. In the past, Terry also played for Aris Thessaloniki. He graduated at the North Carolina University in 2007.
Vanoli Cremona has announced signing of Joel Zacchetti (209-C/F-82). The 28-year old big guy is coming from Snaidero Udine, where he played last season. His numbers were 7.8 ppg and 3.5 rpg in 32 games. Season 2008/09 Zacchetti played for NGC Cantu in SerieA. At that time he collected 2.9 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 27 games.

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  JAMAICA   


Interview with Akeem Scott, Team Jamaica - by Eurobasket
Before the Centrobasket Tournament, you mentioned that you weren't going to be scoring much in your role with Team Jamaica. Fast forward to the CAC Games and you're second on the team in scoring. Did the coaching staff adjust their strategy or did that happen more informally?

You know I came into this summer with a point guard mentality, pass first pass second, and if that don't work pull out my Scoring Game from my Pumpa backpack!! My team was in trouble. We didn't have a full roster and players got hurt. There was only one option left, play the PG position with the intentions to score!

Has playing for a national team felt any different from playing for a professional team? What have you learned in your first run with Team Jamaica?

Playing with the national team is very different than with a professional team. On the NT there are 12 of your country's best players trying to represent their nation as best as possible. It made me love basketball a little more than I did!! I've learn with my Jamaican NT no task is too big no matter who get hurt sick or just can't show up.

Is Team Jamaica done for the summer? When do you start transitioning back to the professional side?

Yes, Team Jamaica is done for the summer, 4-4 overall without any of our NBA PLAYERS, I would say that's not bad! And now its time for me to start talking to my agent Paul Kevin and see what Euro team I can help to a CHAMPIONSHIP.

Any other thoughts?
Last but not least I just want to thank everybody who supported team JAMROCK in both Centro Basket and C.A.C games. To all National Teams Players out there it was good battling you guys and I wish the best for yal this upcoming season.
P.S just stay out my WAY! LOL 2008 MVP and Finnish national Champ said so! Hahaaaa. God bless guys and keep working hard.


Interview of Akeem Scott (186-G-83, college: High Point) was made by made by Seth Johnston



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  JORDAN   


Jamal Abu-Shamala shines in ESL Las Vegas event - by Eurobasket News
As Darryl Reshaw described Jamal was a surprise in the ESL Las Vegas event. This former Big Ten player came to the ESL known to be a shooter which he does well.However he is very athletic and had some nice all around skills that were very impressive at the ESL Las Vegas event. He took the ball to the basket extremely well and his turn around jump shot and mid range game was really smooth.
He currently plays for the Jordan National Team but is a big time prospect for international teams. He showed his talent at the ESL Las Vegas event.
Jamal Abu-Shamala (196-G/F-87) started in 2005 for Minnesota (NCAA) and in 30 games averaged 5.0ppg, 2.0rpg. In 2006-2007 for Minnesota (NCAA) after 31 games he averaged 6.5ppg, 3.1rpg, FGP: 40.0%, 3Pts: 43.1%, FT: 81.3%. In 2007-2008 after 34 games he had 3.4ppg, 1.8rpg, while in the last season after 33 games averaged 3.8ppg, 1.6rpg.
Jamal Abu-Shamala is a member of Jordanian National Team -08-09, participant of William Jones Cup Tournament -08 and a member of Jordanian U23 National Team -09.

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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuania hold off Czech Republic in friendly - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Czech Republic 93:84 (OT)
Lithuania overcame Czech Republic in the exhibition clash in Panevezys. Paulius Jankunas (203-F-84, agency: Interperformances) tallied 25 points and 12 rebounds to pace the hosts.
The teams eagerly traded baskets in the opening frame. They teamed up for 29 points in ten minutes as Lithuania earned a narrow 25:24 lead. The hosts gradually took over in the second term. Lithuania cleared off to a 7-point halftime advantage. Czech Republic bounced back in the third stanza. They limited the home team to just 11 points in the frame and surged ahead. The visitors ensured a one-point advantage with ten minutes to go 61:60. Lithuania erased the deficit in the fourth quarter. They drew things level at 75 at the end of regulation. The teams went into overtime. Lithuania stepped on the gas in the extra frame. They poured in 18 points to celebrate the victory at the end. Renaldas Seibutis (196-G-85) and Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) scored 10 points each for Lithuania. Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) had 9 points for the winners. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) replied with 18 points for Czech Republic. Pavel Slezak (185-G-84) netted 15 points in defeat.

Lithuania: Paulius Jankunas 25+12 boards, Renaldas Seibutis 10, Jonas Maciulis 10
Czech Republic: Pavel Houska 18, Pavel Slezak 15


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  LUXEMBOURG   


Racing add Brett Spiker - by Eurobasket News
Racing announced the new signing for the upcoming season. The Nationale II team inked a deal with Brett Spiker (201-F-86, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement). The 23-year-old forward will replace Cory Largent. Brett Spiker signed the first pro contract. The forward just graduated from Wayne State University. Spiker averaged 12.7 points and 9.9 rebounds per game in his senior season.



Brett Spiker: From Wayne State to Racing Luxemburg - by Daniel Poerschke
Another NCAA 2 big man product signed his first professional european pro contract today: Brett Spiker (201-F-86, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) out of Wayne St., NE agreed terms with Racing Luxembourg in Luxemburg National 2 league. The 23year old Power Forward averaged 12.7ppg and 9.9rpg last season in the NSIC and therefore was voted to the All-Conference 1st Team in 2010. Spiker is an aggressive inside player, who has strong moves around the basket and knows how to collect the offensive rebound for an extra two points for his team.

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  MICRONESIA   


Northern Mariana Islands lose Micronesian Games opener - by Eurobasket News
CNMI - Pohnpei 67:71
Northern Mariana Islands got to a slow start of the 7th Micronesian Games in Palau. They lost the opener to Pohnpei. Northern Mariana Islands got to a slow start. They were down by 7 points 11:18 at the first break. But the strong second quarter helped them take a 34:29 advantage at the interval. Pohnpei stressed the game inside the paint and it paid off. They went on an 8:2 run to surge ahead. Pohnpei maintained the lead throughout the third term. The fourth quarter brought little relief for Northern Mariana Islands. They were down by 11 points but showed character. CNMI almost denied the deficit before falling just short of victory at the end.
William Hawley unloaded 19 points to pace Pohnpei. Yaingelvo produced 14 points, while Roby finished with 12 for the winners. Jericho Cruz answered with 26 points for Northern Mariana Islands. Danandro Barcinas provided 15 points in the loss.

CNMI: Jericho Cruz 26, Danandro Barcinas 15
Pohnpei: William Hawley 19, Yaingelvo 14, Roby 12


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  MONTENEGRO   


Buducnost brings in Marko Scekic - by Eurobasket News
The Montenegrin powerhouse Buducnost Podgorica signed Bosnian Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) for the upcoming season. The 29-year old power forward arrives to Buducnost from EWE Baskets Oldenburg, where he spent last two years. In 2009/10 he appeared 36 times in the German league averaging 8.7 points and 5.1 rebounds. They also competed in Euroleague, where Scekic added 8.2 ppg and 4.7 rpg for 10 games. EWE Baskets Oldenburg was the German champion for season 2008/09. At that time Scekic helped them with 6.9 ppg and 3.7 rpg in 46 games. In EuroChallenge he added 6.5 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 16 appearances.
Before Oldenburg, Marko Scekic played one season in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec. He had 6.1 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 38 games in Polish league helping Turow to reach the Finals. In ULEB Cup Scekic added 7.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 15 games. From 2004 to 2007, Marko Scekic was a member of Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad. Before that he played few years for Borac Nektar Banja Luka. Scekic started basketball career with Drina Osiguranje Zvornik. He was a member of the Bosnian National Team in 2004.

Montenegro win against Latvia - by Dragan Scepanovic
Senior men`s basketball team of Montenegro made up of a victory at the start of qualifying for the European Championship 2011th year. Montenegrin basketball team defeated the evening in Podgorica, in a group, the selection of Latvia 96:66 (30:13, 23:25, 21:14 and 22:14). The most efficient in selection of Montenegro was Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) with 26, while Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) with 13 points. The selection of Latvia pointed to Janis Strelinks with 13 points. In another Group A match against Italy in Bari lost to Israel 79:71


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  NBA   


Portland Trail Blazers sign Armon Johnson - by Eurobasket News
The Portland Trail Blazers have signed second-round pick Armon Johnson (6'3''-G-89).

Terms of the deal were not immediately disclosed Monday.

Portland selected the six-foot-three guard out of Nevada with the 34th overall pick in the June draft.

Following the draft, Johnson averaged 11.6 points and 4.2 assists while starting all five games for Portland's Las Vegas Summer League squad.

Courtesy of www.metronews.ca



Miami Heat sign Patrick Beverley - by Eurobasket News
The Miami Heat continued to fill out their roster, signing guard Patrick Beverley (6'1''-G-88, college: Arkansas) to a contract Monday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Beverley appeared in four games, including three starts, on the Heat's summer league team. He averaged 5.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.25 steals, 1.8 assists and 24.8 minutes, while shooting 34.8 percent from the field and 70 percent from the free-throw line.
Beverley was drafted in the second round (42nd overall) by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009. His draft rights were traded to the Heat in exchange for a 2011 second-round draft pick and cash considerations.
Beverley spent last season in Greece, playing for Olympiakos Pireus, helping the team to a 23-3 record and a Greek League Championship Finals appearance. He averaged 4.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, while shooting 58.1 percent from the field.
In 2008-09, he played for Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk of the Ukrainian Basketball Super League, and averaged 16.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.15 steals in 35.8 minutes per game.

Courtesy of www.palmbeachpost.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


Brett Spiker: From Wayne State to Racing Luxemburg - by Daniel Poerschke
Another NCAA 2 big man product signed his first professional european pro contract today: Brett Spiker (201-F-86, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) out of Wayne St., NE agreed terms with Racing Luxembourg in Luxemburg National 2 league. The 23year old Power Forward averaged 12.7ppg and 9.9rpg last season in the NSIC and therefore was voted to the All-Conference 1st Team in 2010. Spiker is an aggressive inside player, who has strong moves around the basket and knows how to collect the offensive rebound for an extra two points for his team.

*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


RAPTORS OF LAGOS COACH - by Enoma Ugheghe
COACH OF RAPTORS BASKETBALL CLUB OF LAGOS,CHARLES IBEZIAKOR HAS URGED NIGERIAN REPRESENTATIVES IN THE ZONE 111 AFRICA NATIONS CUP QULIFIERS HOLDING IN LOME ,THE CAPITAL OF TOGO FROM AUGUST 7-17 TO FINISH AS WINNERS
THE GRADUATE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE FROM TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY,USA SAYS THAT HE BELIEVES THE TEAM IS GOOD ENOUGH TO COME OUT TOPS
THE NIGERIAN BASKETBALL FEDERATION (NBBF)SUSPENDED THE LEAGUE UNTIL THE END OF THE QUALIFIERS AS SOME CLUB PLAYERS WERE IN THE NATIONAL TEAM

Shane Lawal and Lawrence Nwevo were named in All Big Man Team - by Eurobasket News
Shane Lawal (206-F/C-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Wayne St., MI) and Lawrence Nwevo (203-F/C-85) were named the ESL Las Vegas All Big Man Team. Shane Lawal is a quality all around big guy who was an excellent defender. He blocked a lot of shots and rebounded extremely well during the ESL event. He is a great athlete who runs the floor like a deer. Having a Contonu passport makes his a big time asset for the right team in Spain. He played his first three seasons for Oakland (NCAA) and then moved to Wayne St., MI (NCAA2, starting five). After 27 games he averaged 11.7ppg, 8.5rpg, 2.6bpg, FGP: 53.7%, FT: 50.0%, while in 2009-2010 moved to Club (Qatar-D1, starting five) and in 11 games showed 15.1ppg, 13.2rpg, 1.9bpg, 1.6spg.
Lawrence Nwevo was the hardest working big guy in Las Vegas. He is an excellent defensive player and rebounder. He has a great attitude and is a winner. Lawrence also has a Contonu passport and would be a nice asset to a team in Europe. In 2003-2004 he apparead for Ebun Comets and averaged 17.3ppg, (1)-11.1rpg, 2FGP: 59.1%, ft-70.7%. In 2004-2005 he played for Towson Catholic H.S and then for Lamar University (NCAA). Nwewo stayaed with the team for 5 years and averaged 4.1ppg, 2.9rpg in the last season.



Hope For Girls Camp Ends - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The second edition of Hope for Girls Basketball Clinic for players that falls within 20 years age bracket ended Sunday at the Rowe Park, Yaba, Lagos.
The annual programme which is the brain child of former Nigerian international basketball player, Mobolaji Akiode, began last Wednesday with over 50 players drawn from secondary schools across the country and neighbouring countries such as Benin Republic and Mali.
Hope for Girls was set up primarily by Akiode to empower girls, who are from poor background through playing basketball.
Her goal was both simple and grand: to use sports, particularly basketball camps, to inspire and empower impoverished young women, first in Nigeria and then throughout the African continent. Women are treated as second-class citizens, says Akiode, not just in Nigeria, but in Africa in general.
Akiode began noticing the disparities during visits to Nigeria during her national assignment with the Nigeria Senior Women National team, DTigress. I just was heartbroken that the things that helped me as a young girl, I didnt see that in place now (in Nigeria), she says.
Rowe Park, which served as venue for the camp for about one week camp was a beehive of activities all through the event with three sessions daily in the mornings and evenings for campers and secondary school kids. This included seminars and self defense class.
A motivational speaker, Saheed Kekere Ekun was on hand to talk to the girls. So also was an educationist, Catherine Bickerseth of Strategic Educational Advisory Group.
At the end of the event, participants expressed appreciation to Akiode and wished other Nigerians will join hands with her in giving hope to a lot of girls who are on the streets.
Akiode, who left her job as an accountant with ESPN to set up a foundation, has appealed to well meaning Nigerians, the corporate world and Non Government Organisation (NGO) as well as the government to come to her aid to keep her pet project alive.
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The last day of the camp last Sunday was a combination of the Hope for Girls body and the Basketball Without Border Stop-Over Camp in Nigeria led by Amadou Gallo Fall, Masai Ujiri, Godwin Onwinje, Ugo Udeze among others.
 Mobolaji Akiode (190-F-82)

Standings - Premier L.
Premier L. Regular Season Standings
Atlantic Conf.
 1. Royal H. 9-2 
 2. D. Warriors 6-4 
 3. Union Bank 6-4 
 4. Delta Force 5-5 
 5. Ebun Comets 5-5 
 6. Islanders 5-5 
 7. Police B. 5-5 
 8. Customs 0-11 
Savannah Conf.
 1. Kano Pillars 8-1 
 2. Kadda Stars 8-2 
 3. Bauchi Nets 6-4 
 4. Niger Potters 5-5 
 5. Plateau Peaks 4-7 
 6. Yelwa Hawks 4-7 
 7. Rockets 3-6 
 8. AHIP Giants 2-9 


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  NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS   


Northern Mariana Islands lose Micronesian Games opener - by Eurobasket News
CNMI - Pohnpei 67:71
Northern Mariana Islands got to a slow start of the 7th Micronesian Games in Palau. They lost the opener to Pohnpei. Northern Mariana Islands got to a slow start. They were down by 7 points 11:18 at the first break. But the strong second quarter helped them take a 34:29 advantage at the interval. Pohnpei stressed the game inside the paint and it paid off. They went on an 8:2 run to surge ahead. Pohnpei maintained the lead throughout the third term. The fourth quarter brought little relief for Northern Mariana Islands. They were down by 11 points but showed character. CNMI almost denied the deficit before falling just short of victory at the end.
William Hawley unloaded 19 points to pace Pohnpei. Yaingelvo produced 14 points, while Roby finished with 12 for the winners. Jericho Cruz answered with 26 points for Northern Mariana Islands. Danandro Barcinas provided 15 points in the loss.

CNMI: Jericho Cruz 26, Danandro Barcinas 15
Pohnpei: William Hawley 19, Yaingelvo 14, Roby 12


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  PHILIPPINES   


PBA Fiesta Cup Semifinals: Alaska forces Game Seven against Talk N Text - by Eurobasket News
The Alaska Aces just wouldn't allow Chot Reyes, the Talk 'N Text coach, to celebrate his birthday at their own expense.
Playing with more focus and energy, the Aces thrashed the Tropang Texters, 94-83, to forge a deciding seventh game in their PBA Fiesta Cup semifinal series.
Alaska played without starting big man Joachim Thoss (203-C-81), who suffered a second-degree sprained left ankle.
His absence hardly bothered the Aces, who led by as many as 18 and then quelled a late rally by the top-seeded team, whose mentor was celebrating his 47th birthday Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.
'We came out with a lot of energy. We established a tone. That kind of surprised them. It really was a good game for us in terms of execution and playing both sides of the court,' said Alaska coach Tim Cone after the Game 6 win.
The best-of-seven series is now tied at 3-game apiece, with the deciding match set on Wednesday also at the Big Dome and marking the third time the two teams are squaring off in a Game 7.
Reyes obviously was disappointed with yet another failure of his team to close out a game.
'There's a reason why we can't win a series when we're up 3-2. And it's because we don't know how to close out games,' said a forlorn Reyes. 'They basically outhustled us. The worst part of the loss is that we got outworked.'
The Tropang Texters' loss was made even worst with the breakdown of key players Mac-Mac Cardona and Ranidel de Ocampo.
Scoreless in Game 5, Cardona again struggled from the floor by finishing with only two points on 1-of-7 shooting. De Ocampo for his part, had seven and missed all of his attempts from the three-point area and ended up 2-of-10 overall from the field.
Diamon Simpson (201-F-87, college: St.Mary's, CA) had another big game for the Aces with 21 points and 18 rebounds while Joe Devance (201-C-82, college: UTEP) had 19.
Cyrus Baguio (188-G-80) rebounded from a measly six-point showing the last time by contributing 14 points, nine rebounds and a key steal off Jimmy Alapag (178-G-77, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.). He completed the heist with a breakaway basket that kept the rallying Tropang Texters at bay in the final two minutes.
Mark Borboran came off the bench and scored eight points on 4-of-4 shooting from the field aside from having two rebounds in 18 minutes.
The Aces led 30-12 in the first half, but hardly panicked when the Tropang Texters came to within 59-57 on a basket by Cardona in the third period.
They closed out the quarter with an 18-6 run, then stretched it to 19 (87-68) on a basket by Reynel Hugnatan.
The closest Talk N Text came to was within 91-83 on a lay-up by Jason Castro with 2:19 left, before Baguio came through with that big steal on Alapag.
Alapag led the Texters with 20 points, all coming in the first half, while Castro contributed 19 points, all in the second half for Talk 'N Text, which was without Ryan Reyes, who suffered a hyper-extended knee.

Courtesy of RCJ, www.GMANews.TV



PBA Fiesta Cup: San Miguel eliminates Derby Ace in the Semis (4-2) - by Eurobasket News
Derby Ace's heart was simply no match to San Miguel's defense and firepower.
The Beermen endured a late Llamados rally down the stretch to score a 91-83 win Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum and earn a return trip to the Finals of the PBA Fiesta Cup.
Gabriel Freeman (198-F-85, agency: Union Sports, college: Costa Mesa JC), the reigning Best Import of the season-ending conference, again proved to be huge for the defending champion on both ends of the floor, coming through with 26 points on 12-of-14 shooting from the foul line, while grabbing 22 rebounds.
But it was the big defensive stops pulled off by Arwind Santos (193-F-81) and Jay Washington (206-C-81, college: Eckerd) in the waning minutes and Dondon Hontiveros' effective shackling of James Yap (191-F/G-82) that spelled the difference in the Game 6 win that allowed the league's winningest franchise to wrap up the series, 4-2, and make it to the Fiesta Cup Finals for the second straight time.
In all, this will be the Beermen's 31st appearance in a championship series.
They will have few precious days to rest and prepare as they await their championship opponent, which will not be known until Wednesday when Alaska and top seeded Talk 'N Text dispute the remaining Finals berth in a deciding Game 7 of the other Final Four pairing.
'We're definitely looking forward to the Finals,' said coach Siot Tanquingcen, unbeaten in all of his three appearances in the Finals, including the 2009 Fiesta Cup when he steered the Beermen to a seven-game series win over Barangay Ginebra.
The Beermen will now try to become the first team to defend a title in the last eight years since Red Bull last did the trick in the 2002 and 2003 Commissioner's Cup.
Washington added 18 points and Santos 14 for the Beermen, who led by as many as 75-61 early in the fourth.
But with import Tony Washam (198-F/G-82, college: St.Vincent) taking charge, the Llamados threatened at 81-75 with 3:14 to play.
Unfortunately, the Llamados just couldn't pull it off together this time the way they did many times in the past when their lives - and season - were on the line.
James Yap bungled it for the Llamados.
Taking the spot for Marc Pingris at the free-throw line after the Derby Ace forward was fouled hard on a flagrant foul by Joseph Yeo, Yap missed the two free throws, and then failed to capitalize in the next possession when his three-pointer came up short.
Washington, then, hit two free throws (83-75), before Washam, whose previous attempt was blocked by Santos, was whistled for an offensive foul off Washington that all but sealed the end of the Llamados' season.
'It starts with defense for us,' Freeman stressed.
Tanquingcen added, 'The glaring difference is our effort. Derby Ace is a proud champion. They're not just going to lie down and give us the win. You have to work.'
Washington added 18 points and 13 rebounds while Santos 14 for the Beermen, winner of 18 league titles, the most in the 35-year history of the PBA.
Washam led the Llamados with 30 points, Roger Yap with 15, while James Yap 14, but was held to 6-of-16 shooting by the daunting defense of Hontiveros.

Courtesy of RCJ, www.GMANews.TV

PBA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Anthony JOHNSON
  Santa Lucia
  (197-G/F-79)
  Avg: 29.2
 1. Johnson, Santa L.29.2 
 2. Monroe, Barako26.0 
 3. Simpson, Alaska25.4 
 4. Nealy, Rain or Shine23.5 
 5. David, Coca-Cola21.5 
 6. Freeman, San M.20.7 
 7. Brown, Derby A.20.1 
 8. Yap, Derby Ace L.18.9 
 9. Mercado, Rain o.17.0 
 10. Lewis, Rain or Shine16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gabriel FREEMAN
  San Miguel
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 17.6
 1. Freeman, San M.17.6 
 2. Simpson, Alaska16.5 
 3. Brown, Derby A.14.8 
 4. Johnson, Santa L.13.4 
 5. Daniels, Talk N.13.3 
 6. Lewis, Rain or Shine12.3 
 7. Nealy, Rain or Shine11.1 
 8. Taulava, Coca-Cola10.9 
 9. Monroe, Barako9.3 
 10. Hatfield, Ginebra7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Jimmy ALAPAG
  Talk N Text
  (178-G-77)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Alapag, Talk N Text7.8 
 2. Cabagnot, San M.5.8 
 3. Mercado, Rain o.4.6 
 4. Tenorio, Alaska4.5 
 5. Helterbrand, Gineb.4.3 
 6. Yap, Derby Ace L.4.2 
 7. Nealy, Rain or Shine4.1 
 8. Monroe, Barako4.1 
 9. Cortez, Air214.1 
 10. Norwood, Rain o.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Shawn DANIELS
  Talk N Text
  (200-C-79)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Daniels, Talk N.1.9 
 2. Baguio, Alaska1.7 
 3. Norwood, Rain o.1.4 
 4. Simpson, Alaska1.4 
 5. Monroe, Barako1.3 
 6. Tenorio, Alaska1.2 
 7. Yap, Derby Ace L.1.2 
 8. Cortez, Air211.2 
 9. Macapagal, Coca-.1.1 
 10. Reyes, Talk N Text1.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Shawn DANIELS
  Talk N Text
  (200-C-79)
  Avg: 2
 1. Daniels, Talk N.2.0 
 2. Simpson, Alaska1.9 
 3. Monroe, Barako1.5 
 4. Johnson, Santa L.1.4 
 5. Freeman, San M.1.2 
 6. Santos, San Miguel1.1 
 7. Reyes, Barako1.0 
 8. Nealy, Rain or Shine1.0 
 9. Lewis, Rain or Shine0.9 
 10. Hrabak, Rain o.0.9 


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


David Jackson lands in Poland - by Michal Falkowski
David Jackson (193-G-86, college: W.Illinois), one of the best American who played last season in Slovakian Extraliga, changes a team. American shooting guard moves to Polish PGE Turow Zgorzelec as he signed a one-year deal with this club. 24-year-old Jackson was a key player of Basketball Pezinok team last time as he averaged 15,5 ppg., 4,4 rpg., and 2,2 apg. while the team became a champion. Jackson will be the third American in Turow. Michael Kuebler (195-G/F-82, college: Hawaii) and Torey Thomas (180-G-85, college: Holy Cross) had joined the club before him.

Jermaine Beal starts his professional career in Poland - by Michal Falkowski
A graduate of the University of Vanderbilt, Jermaine Beal (191-G-87) starts his professional career. 23-year-old American guard signed one-year deal with Trefl Sopot and will play for this team in the following season. Beal arrives to his new team after four seasons in NCAA. In his last season he averaged 14,6 ppg. and 3,1 apg. which opened him a chance to play for Miami Heat in the last NBA Summer League. He didn't receive an offer from Heat so he decided to move to Europe.

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


Puerto Rico beats Paraguay at Super 4 meet - by Luis Ramirez
Dubbed as the Super 4 at Argentina, Puerto Rico, Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina are competing between each other in tune-ups for their Turkey 2010 tournament.
Puerto Rico met Paraguay in the 1st game and with two free throws from Peter John Ramos and a block from Ramos, Puerto Rico prevailed to beat Paraguay 87-85.
Puerto Rico took the 1st quarter, 19-17, but Paraguay came back in the 2nd quarter to take the 1st half 41-34.
In the 3rd quarter, Paraguay extended their lead to 12 points with 5:36 left in the quarter, but Puerto Rico did not lose their cool and continued to work their defense and with 1:40 had taken the lead, 57-56 from Paraguay. The quarter closed with Paraguay once again in the lead 63-59.
In the 4th quarter, Puerto Rico started making long range shots and with several 3 pointers took the lead once again 74-73 with 7:05 left in the game. Puerto Rico would not trail again the rest of the game.
For Puerto Rico, Carmelo Lee (201-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Long Beach St.) scored 24 points followed by Peter John Ramos with 18 points, he also grabbed 12 rebounds.

For Paraguay, Daniel Perez scored 22 points, while Guillermo Araujo scored 20 points.

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  ROMANIA   


Slovak Republic edge Romania for second straight time - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic - Romania 100:60
Slovak Republic celebrated the second consecutive win over Romania. The teams met again in exhibition clash in Prievidza and the hosts celebrated another win. Martin Rancik (204-F/C-78, college: Iowa St.) knocked down 20 points to lead the effort.
The hosts led right from the start. They recorded a 27:13 advantage ten minutes into the game. Slovak Republic did not slow down in the second frame. They fired 27 points and boosted the margin to as many as 22 points at halftime. Romania tried to change things around in the third quarter. The visitors stepped on the gas and outscored Slovak Republic 22:21. But the fourth period doomed the visiting team. Slovak Republic went on a stunning 25:6 run to finalize a comfortable win at the end.
Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) produced 19 points for the winners. Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) added 14 points for Slovak Republic. Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) replied with 13 points for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu (206-F-88) had 11 points in the loss.

Slovak Republic: Martin Rancik 20, Radoslav Rancik 19, Anton Gavel 14
Romania: Mihai Silvasan 13, Vlad Moldoveanu 11



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  RUSSIA   


Gerald Green inks with Krasnie Krilya - by Eurobasket News
Gerald Green (203-G/F-86, agency: Lanshire Group) inks with Krasnie Krilya and will play for the team in 2010/2011 season. The American 203cm player decided to stay in Russia but chose another team.
In 2003-2004 he appeared for Gulf Shores Academy / Houston, TX and in 37 games averaged massive 28.0ppg, 13.0rpg, 2.0apg, 6.0bpg. In 2004-2005 improved to 33.0ppg, 12.0rpg, 7.0apg. In 2005 was drafted by Boston Celtics (NBA,1rd (18)) and in 2005 signed a $1,253,040 deal with the team. After 32 games he averaged 5.2ppg, 1.3rpg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 30%, FT: 78.4%. In 2006-2007 increased to 10.4ppg, 2.6rpg, FGP: 41.9%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 80.5%. In another season in NBA Gerald moved to Minnesota, then Houston Rockets and later Dallas Mavericks. In December 2009 Gerald Green signed at Lokomotiv Kuban (Russia-A Superleague, starting five): and debuted in EuroChallenge. He showed massive 15.0ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0bpg, while in Russian League after 17 games became the fourth top-scorer with 16.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 49.2%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 81.8%.
In his top game last year Lokomotiv Kuban rolled over Triumph 84:74 at the start of the Second Stage Round 2. Gerald Green top-scored for the winners with 36 points, while Gist James added 14. Rush Brion responded with 33 points in defeat.


Enisey keeps three local players - by Eurobasket News
Dmitri Nikolaev (200-F-83), Sergei Demeshkin (200-F-76) and Aleksei Savkov (196-G-79) will stay in Enisey for the next season.
For Aleksei Savkov it will be the third year in Enisey Krasnoyarsk (A Superleague, starting five). In the first one he appeared with 23 games and averaged 4.6ppg, 4.4rpg. In 2009-2010 Savkov played in EuroChallenge's 12 games and showed 5.1ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 80.0%, while in Russian League after 19 games had 5.3ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 80.0%.
Sergei Demeshkin played only one season for Enisey coming from CSK VVS Samara (A Superleague). In his latest season there the Russian player averaged 10.6ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 43.3%, FT: 77.3% in EuroChallenge and in Russian League after 18 games had 10.2ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 41.1%, FT: 82.4%. Last year for Enisey Krasnoyarsk (A Superleague) in Russian League he shined with 8.6ppg, 3.2rpg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 41.4%, FT: 77.4%, while in EuroChallenge after 11 games had 7.5ppg, 3.3rpg, FGP: 64.0%, 3PT: 41.9%, FT-3 (91.7%).
Dmitri Nikolaev came to Enisey Krasnoyarsk in 2008 and in the first season had 4.3ppg, 2.9rpg. In 2009-2010 his stats read 5.1ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 65.0%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 90.9% in EuroChallenge, while in Russian League after 17 games he showed 3.3ppg, 2.6rpg.
Semen Antonov (203-F-89) meanwhile will play for Nizhniy Novgorod. The first three years he played for Avtodor Saratov, while in the last one appeared for TSU-Basket Tambov (B Superleague, starting five). In 36 games he averaged 15.4ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.2apg, 1bpg.


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


Slovak Republic edge Romania for second straight time - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic - Romania 100:60
Slovak Republic celebrated the second consecutive win over Romania. The teams met again in exhibition clash in Prievidza and the hosts celebrated another win. Martin Rancik (204-F/C-78, college: Iowa St.) knocked down 20 points to lead the effort.
The hosts led right from the start. They recorded a 27:13 advantage ten minutes into the game. Slovak Republic did not slow down in the second frame. They fired 27 points and boosted the margin to as many as 22 points at halftime. Romania tried to change things around in the third quarter. The visitors stepped on the gas and outscored Slovak Republic 22:21. But the fourth period doomed the visiting team. Slovak Republic went on a stunning 25:6 run to finalize a comfortable win at the end.
Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) produced 19 points for the winners. Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) added 14 points for Slovak Republic. Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) replied with 13 points for Romania. Vlad Moldoveanu (206-F-88) had 11 points in the loss.

Slovak Republic: Martin Rancik 20, Radoslav Rancik 19, Anton Gavel 14
Romania: Mihai Silvasan 13, Vlad Moldoveanu 11



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


CB Granada inks Rob Kurz - by Eurobasket News
CB Granada landed another new player for the upcoming season. The Spanish outfit inked a one-year deal with American Robert Kurz (206-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame). The 25-year old forward is coming to Granada from NBDL team Fort Wayne Mad Ants. He appeared 38 times in NBDL last season averaging 17.4 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.4 blocks. Kurz was named USBasket.com All-D-League 2nd Team. He spent some time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Chicago Bulls, but didnt appear in any of their NBA games last season.
On season 2008/09, Robert Kurz was a member of the Golden State Warriors. He played 40 NBA games for them collecting 3.9 ppg and 2 rpg. It was his rookie year, after he graduated at the Notre Dame University in 2008. In his senior season there Kurz had 12.5 ppg, 7.1 rpg and 1.9 apg. He appeared at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament after that, but wasnt drafted by any of the NBA teams. The Warriors signed him as a free agent for 2008/09 season.
Granada already landed one player from NBDL this summer. It was Yaroslav Korolev, who played for the Reno Bighorns and Albuquerque Thunderbirds.

Russell Robinson strengthens Joventut - by Eurobasket News
Joventut announced the second signing today. They landed Russell Robinson (185-G-86) for the next season. The 24-year-old guard spent the previous season in D-League. He started it at the Reno Bighorns. Russell Robinson tallied 16.4 points, 3.7 assists, 3.1 boards and 1.9 steals per game. Later the guard moved to the Maine Red Claws. There Russell Robinson notched 16.3 points, 5.6 assists, 3.3 rebounds, 2.0 steals per game.


Carl English joins Joventut - by Eurobasket News
Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) will play for Joventut in the upcoming season. The 29-year-old guard spent the previous season in Caja Laboral. He tallied 8.2 points, 2.6 boards and 1.1 assists per game in EuroCup. In ACB Carl English notched 9.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance. The guard participated at the 2009 FIBA Americas tournament in Puerto Rico. Carl English averaged 12.5 points, 3.6 boards and 2.5 assists per game in San Juan.


CB Granada add Rob Kurz - by JC Ruiz
CB Granada announced the agreement for one season with a very gifted player: Robert Kurz (206-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame).
The young center from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has great offensive skills, as he showed in last D-League season. Kurz arrives to the Spanish tema after playing last season for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, averaging 17.5 points and 10.1 rebounds per game.
He graduated from Notre Dame, averaging 12.8 ppg in his senior year, he was un-drafted but he played for the Golden State Warriors. His best much in NBA, Kurz added 20 points and 7 rebounds against Denver Nuggets.

Market news LEB - by Llorenc Morro

Xacobeo Obradoiro trusts in Moncho Fernandez to back ACB
Mac Koshwal (208-F/C) reinforces Socas Canarias and Airam Marrero (200-F/C-81) left the club.
Antonio Pantin (203-C/F-88) moved to Ourense Aguas de Sousas.
Palencia signed Sergio Olmos (213-C-86, college: Temple) and extended contract with the captain Carles Bravo (192-F/G-79).
Roberto Morentin (206-F/C-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Cent.Florida) and Oscar Gonzalez (183-G-77, agency: Interperformances, college: Pittsburg St.) changed Melilla's challenge for Murcia's one. After a Sant Josep Girona's temptation, Xavi Sastre extended contract in Mallorca for 3 years.
James Feldeine (193-G-88) inked for Breogan. La Palma agreed terms with Joaquin Bonhome (196-F-86) for one year more. Grupo Iruna Navarra gets big man, Tyler Sanborn (208-C-88, agency: Strategic Sports)



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  SWEDEN   


Germany knock down Sweden in Leiden - by Eurobasket News
Germany - Sweden 82:66
Germany finished the Nations Cup international tournament in Leiden on a high note. They fired past Sweden for 2-1 record. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) scored 16 points to lead Germany.
The German team confidently opened the encounter. They accounted for as many as 28 points in the starting quarter. Germany thus built a 5-point lead at the first break. They kept their opponents at bay throughout the second period. Germany cleared off to an 18-point distance but Sweden stopped the bleeding. They pulled within 7 at halftime 39:46. Germany gave little chance for their opponents in the third quarter. They dominated almost every facet of the game and recorded 60:51 advantage with ten minutes remaining. The gap quickly grew at 15-point mark and Germany did not look back en route to the victory.
Konrad Wysocki (202-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) finished with 11 points for Germany. Lucca Staiger (196-G-88, college: Iowa St.) and Tim Ohlbrecht (211-C/F-88) provided 9 points each for the winners. Jonathan Skjoldebrand (203-C/F-83) answered with 14 points for Sweden. Martin Pahlmblad (193-G-86) delivered 12 points in the losing effort.

Germany: Robin Benzing 16, Konrad Wysocki 11, Lucca Staiger 9, Tim Ohlbrecht 9
Sweden: Jonathan Skjoldebrand 14, Martin Pahlmblad 12


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  SWITZERLAND   


Boncourt tabs Showron Glover - by Luca Maffioli
BC Boncourt Red Team tabs Showron Glover (180-G). The Canadian guard sign a one year deal and it's the first pro contract for him. The young guard just played for University of Saskatchewan Huskies in Men's Basketball Canadian University Sport National Champions. He tallied 28.0ppg (Score-1), 5.2rpg, 4.7apg, 3.6spg (Steals-1), 2FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 40.5%, FT: 79.9% per game for Saskatchewan Huskies in his last senior. Glover is a creative playmaker and a dangerous player in open space and he was nominated into All-Canadian 1st Team 2009 and 2010.

Austria topple Switzerland - by Luca Maffioli
Switzerland - Austria 70:85
Austria knocked down Switzerland in exhibition 70:85. Stjepan Stazic (199-G-78, agency: World Sport Agency) scored 37 points to lead the hosts to a nice victory. Switzerland played this game without player like Mladjan, Stockalper, Buscaglia, Dos Santos and the Swiss star Sefolosha. Coach Roduit could test youger NT player and the new Swiss forward/center Greg Brunner (201-F-83, college: Iowa). Brunner plays in Italy with Benetton Treviso and he spent last season in Montegranaro (12.7ppg, Reb-2 (8.4rpg), 1.9spg, FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 19.2%, FT: 62.4%). Mayer scored 11 points and Stazic 37 for Austria. Switzerland replied with 12 points from Stefan Petkovic (186-G-92). Greg Brunner nailed 8 points in the loss.

Austria: Stjepan Stazic 37, Matthias Mayer 11, Jason Detrick 10
Switzerland: Stefan Petkovic 12, Jonathan Kazadi 11, Cedric Mafuta 11

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  SYRIA   


I thought De-Bo from Friday was a beast; Ittihad's Management aint got nothing on him. They do whatever they want at anyone elses expense...*shaking my nappy head*....On to the next one! - by Kenyon Gamble
'I'm Back Like Jordan wearing the 45.'
Last time I spoke to you all. I was sitting in Aleppo, Syria 7 days after my contract was over with Al Ittihad Aleppo. Well, how about this, I sat in Aleppo in a horrible hotel (cockroaches, flies, ants, no internet, no breakfast, no food, no cable) for another 16 days. That's 23 days after my contract was over. Now, if you thinking like I'm thinking, 'What in the world was I still doing in Syria? Why hadn't the management paid my rent which caused me to be evicted from 3 different homes/hotels? Why am I the last professional player left in the country, yet my contract was over 23 days ago?'
At this particular point, I had asked for my ticket home to America EVERY DAY, and EVERY DAY I was told by Al Ittihad Aleppo management that I would have my ticket the following day. During this time, I missed my private workout with the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA, I missed another playing opportunity for the Asian Championship, and I was held hostage in this country as I missed out on other business appointments I had lined up in America. On top of being held hostage, the team DID NOT PAY ME MY EARNED MONEY! I am stranded in a horrible hotel, I am stuck with no money to eat, drink or catch a taxi to work out. I was constantly cajoled into believing I was going to receive all of my EARNED money. I am not asking for any hand outs; this is money that I played for; I fulfilled the contract. I, evidently, played on a high level, as I was awarded 'Asia-Basket.com Defensive Player of the Year Syria 2010' and 'Asia-Basket.com All Defensive Team Syria 2010.' I also was a key factor in the playoffs to propel my team into the final 4, with a viable chance to when a Championship; yet I was not paid my earned income. The same income that I must have so that my family and I can have a place to stay, food to eat, and every other basic need one must have to live. There is still no explanation for why I have not been paid besides 'We just aren't going to pay you KJ (they weren't able to say 'KG')'..... THAT'S IT, THAT'S ALL! UNBELIEVABLE! More details on my salary/contract information coming soon. I don't want to revisit the state of perturbation I was in, nor do I want to re-live the moments when the management lied to my face numerous times, blatantly showed dereliction of their managerial duties with many treacherous acts; used me, and treated me as if I was not a human being. I thought De-Bo from Friday was a beast. Al Ittihad Aleppo Management ain't got nothing on him; they do whatever they want, at ANYONE ELSE'S expense *shaking my nappy head*...On to the next one! I will not be punished for their acts; they will, because God has the final say. I will continue to be a professional player and a humble, honest man, as I continue to reach for the stars.
So, now its summer time Chi, throw your hands up in the sky. My summers consist of a month of rest to heal any minor injuries, a break from the game of basketball to relax my mind, catching up with the time I lost with my family and friends (whom I see as family), eating all the food I missed while being out of the country (Jimmy Gs, Uncle Remus, Home Run Inn, Bella's Pizza, Pete's and any other hood joints I'm feeling) and then BACK TO BUSINESS. If you get caught up in all the hoopla, drinking, partying and hood activity in the Chi, your career will be SHORT, if it ever starts. I understand these things, so I go HARD in the summer. If you are not improving on something in the summer, you are wasting time. Time is the most important thing in my life because its the only thing that goes before you have the chance to use it to your advantage. I value my time, and I refuse to waste it. I play in all the hood tournaments, the Pro AMs, and the neighborhood runs as long as I'm on a wood floor, I'm running. Other than the tournaments, I am in the gym on the daily perfecting my strengths, and improving my weaknesses. Every year, I have gotten better as a Basketball player, and that is my goal every summer.
Just recently, I played in the Louis Saunders Memorial Tournament up in Boston. This is the second year I have participated in this event. We made it to the Championship game last summer (beating Glen Davis (206-F-86, college: LSU) of the Boston Celtics along with other NBA players), had the lead at half time of the Championship game, yet we fail to the defending champs, Mission Hill. This year, we fell in the Elite 8; my team had the talent, but lacked the chemistry. It was intense, competitive, and entertaining. I played with my former team, Manchester Millrats (now the St John Millrats). Ian McCarthy, the GM, called me up, and asked me to run, and I was elated at the chance to compete with Ian and some Millrats. The tournament is filled with NBA guys, Overseas pros, minor league pros, and former D1 players.
The first year, my team consisted of some impressive guys. Al Stewart (178-G-83, agency: Rice and Rice, college: Drake), a speedy guard at 6 ft even. He is ATHLETIC, he rebounds, scores, defends, passes; a true total package guard. He has been destroying the minor league circuit in the States. Al (www.kenyongamble.com/player.html) has yet to be given an opportunity to play abroad yet, but is a very capable player, and one of the best guards I have ever played with.
We also had Desmond Ferguson (201-G/F-77, college: Detroit Mercy), A former NBA ASSASSIN. I have never seen a shooter as accurate and deadly as him. I have seen him shoot 9 for 11 from the NBA 3 pointer, and follow it up shooting 8 for 10 the next night. All on the professional level. He stands at 67 and rarely misses the bottom of the net. His company, Moneyball Sportswear (www.moneyballsportswear.com), is making steady progress in the sportswear industry.
Also on the roster, was Anthony Anderson (180-G-81, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Massachusetts). This guy is one of the best players, hands down, I have ever seen. He is EXPLOSIVE, and unstoppable on the offensive end. He finishes and hangs in the air MJ-like, while only standing at 511. He shoots the 3 as consistent as any professional out there, and if you aren't careful, hell dunk on your head. A certified scorer!
This year at the Louis Sanders Tournament, I played with some very talented players as well. I was reunited with a former CBA All Star, TJ Thompson (177-G-82, college: George Washington). He showed that he is still one of the best PGs doing it, while his game has matured beyond belief. His years in the top Euro Leagues have paid off. Eric Gilchrese (183-G-87, college: New Hampshire), the PBL rookie of the year played very well and showed why he received such an honor; and Keith Friel (192-G-77, college: Virginia) showed why he has dominated the PBL the last few seasons. Garnering MVPs and Championships as the Rochester Razorsharks all time leading scorer. Also gracing the roster was Mark Eggerson, Scott Hazelton (203-F-81, college: Rhode Island), Bilal Abdullah, and David Cooper (203-F-83, college: JMU).
Both teams proved to have tremendous talent, but the biggest difference between this years team, and last years team was chemistry. Last year, most of the guys had played with each other before on the professional level; but this year, no one had any serious chemistry between one another. It proved to be deadly and got us a very early exit from the tournament.
Now, I'm back home competing for Championships in the Chi Town leagues right now. Ill let you know what happens soon. Stay in the gym, stay committed, and stay prayerful!
Til next time people..RIOCI...Thanks for tuning in for another chapter in my basketball book.
This blog is maintained by Kenyon Gamble (212-C-82, college: Tuskegee).
Feel free to comment and/or email me personally at kkg@kenyongamble.com
www.KenyonGamble.com

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  TURKEY   


Mersin agrees with Dionte Christmas - by Sarp Kunter
According to the news of Turkish websites, Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyesi agreed with American shooting guard Dionte Christmas (196-G, agency: Buck Andre, college: Temple). He will be the third foreigner of the team after Aubrey Reese (183-G-78, agency: Interperformances, college: Murray St.) and Vincent Grier (195-G/F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Minnesota) who decided to stay in the team. Christmas played with Israelian side Gilboa Afula last year, and was the 3rd best scorer in the league. His college career is very good also , he played in March Madness in his alst year, as the leader of the Temple team.

Steve Toyloy signs with Istanbulspor - by Mustafa Bozkurt
The newcomer of Turkish D2 Istanbulspor signed with Steve Toyloy. Former Cincinnati player is going to play for black-yellow team. Toyloy has graduated from Cincinnati this summer. Toyloy has known with his powerfull game on inside. Toyloy ll be in Istanbul later on August. Here is a short look to his career:

2008-2009: Cincinnati (NCAA): 32 games: 3.9ppg, 3.8rpg
2009-2010: Cincinnati (NCAA): 35 games: 3.3ppg, 3.3rpg


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  UBA   


GIE Morrow Disciples triumph in the UBA Playoff Classic - Webb Named MVP - by Griselle Martis
GIE Morrow Disciples triumph in UBA Playoff Classic as they prove themselves to be better than any other team of the Classic.
In the Final GIE Morrow Disciples overcame Southern Generals 95:88. The Disciples were led by the amazing play of Antonio Webb (5'10''-G-84, agency: Team Quest Inc., college: Bethune-Cookman). Webb was the games top scorer with 31 points sinking six three pointers. Demetrice Williams (6'3''-G-80, college: S.Alabama) (6'3''-G-80, college: South Alabama) nailed 16 points and dished out a game-high 11 assists. Gerard Devaughn (6'8''-C-87, college: Stillman) responded with 17 points and 15 rebounds in defeat. Will De La Cruz (6'2''-G-80, college: Atlanta Christian) added 15 points and 8 assists.
Antonio Webb was named UBA Finals Most Valuable Player. 'Antonio carried us, with Barnes numbers down we needed someone to step up and carry the team,' said head coach Michael Davis. Gerard Devaughn and Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: Low Country Sports Management, college: Atlanta Christian) were named UBA Playoff Classic Co-MVP.
GIE Morrow Disciples: Leaders:
Points: Antonio Webb 31, Demetrice Williams 16, Jermaine Barnes 15
Rebounds: Thomas Shewmake 10, Derrick Stroud 10, Jermaine Dailey 9
Assists: Demetrice Williams 11, Jermaine Barnes 6, Thomas Shewmake 4

Southern Generals: Leaders:
Points: Gerard Devaughn 17, Will De La Cruz 15, Brandon Wright 15
Rebounds: Gerard Devaughn 11, Carlos White 8, Chris Moore 8, Carlos White 8
Assists: Will De La Cruz 8, Jackie Britt 5, Carlos White 4


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Cricelli Signs with Raiders - by Andy Webb
The UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have signed 67 forward, Samuel Cricelli (201-F, college: Caldwell), who played last season with Raiders BBL rivals the Worthing Thunder. This summer, he won his first England senior international caps, alongside 2 of raiders other new recruits Taner Adu and Matt Guymon.
The 25 year old has been in discussions with Raiders Head Coach Gavin Love for a number of weeks, and over the weekend, agreed to sign with the team for the 2010/11 season. Cricelli becomes the sixth player to be announced by the team all of whom will be new comers to the Raiders.
Cricelli graduated from Caldwell College in the USA last summer, and moved back to the south coast where he originally comes from. He was picked up by former Thunder coach Dave Titmuss, and right away given a starting role with the team. Because of Thunders lack of height last season, Cricelli was forced to play out of position at power forward. A natural small forward, he is best when he is getting out on the fast break, or slashing to the basket creating shots for himself or team mates.
Hell most likely find himself playing small forward or power forward for us this season, said Love. He showed last year what a talented young player he is, with some fantastic performances for the Thunder. Over the last month of the season when the Thunder were making their push for the playoffs, he averaged nearly 15 points and 7 rebounds a game. Thunders games against Everton really stood out in his performances last year against a very good Tigers team who went on to win the BBL playoffs, Sam averaged 20 points and 11 rebounds. Defensively, he really comes into his own. Hes tall, he has long arms and hes very quick. He can guard anyone from shooting guards to power forwards, which gives me a lot of flexibility.

Im really excited about joining the Raiders, said Cricelli. I want to thank Plymouth for recruiting me. I believe weve got great potential to be a winning team and I cant wait to get started. Everything seems to be shaping up really well. Im also really looking forward to moving down to Plymouth and getting acquainted with the city.


Scene set for U16 Men Europeans - by Eurobasket News
By Dave Ryan

European Championship for U16 Men (Division B) - Official website

After finishing third in last season's competition, England's Under 16 Men will look to seal promotion to the European Championship when they travel to Tallinn, Estonia.

After winning all three first round games, and after beating Sweden 81-80 they were able to rest players in the second last eight game. They lost 82-56 in the semi-final to Denmark to miss out on the possibility of promotion to Division A, but they responded with a good win over Slovenia to clinch third.

England open the tournament on Thursday lunchtime when they face Belarus who finished 11th in last summer's 18-team competition. A 100-63 loss against Slovenia set the tone for the first round as their only win in the four games came across an Austrian side who finished bottom. Wins against Slovak Republic and Holland in the first classification stage saw them into the 9th-12th playoffs, and after a defeat against Belgium they sealed 11th place with another victory against the Slovaks. However, with only one of the 12-man squad who played last season eligible for this season, it will be a new-look Belarus team in action against England.

After a day off, Simon Fisher's team face Czech Republic on Saturday and they will be up against a team who were relegated from Division A last summer. They lost all six games in the competition, with only their first stage 70-68 defeat against Croatia being close, but in common with Belarus they will have a different looking squad this year, with only three of last year's team young enough to play.

Old rivals Ireland are England's opponents on Sunday and the Irish will look to bounce back from a disappointing 2009 competition which saw them finish 14th. After three straight losses in the first round, Ireland also lost their first two classification games and they went home with a 1-6 record with that solitary win coming against Luxembourg 87-59.

Fisher's side wrap up the first round on Monday when they face Slovakia, who finished 12th last summer.

The teams also met in last year's competition, and with Joe Hart (22) and Devon Van Oostrum (20) in fine form, England strolled to a 96-62 victory. The Slovaks split their other two first round games, beating Holland but losing to Hungary and an 84-66 victory against Luxembourg in the first classification stage put them into the 9th-12th place playoffs. That was as good as it got, though, as they went down to single digit defeats against both Georgia and Belarus.

The top two teams in the group will progress to the last eight stage where they will be in the section with the leading two from Group A - Switzerland, Portugal, Ukraine, Austria and Sweden. The third and fourth placed teams go into the classification games for 9th-16th place, with the bottom team going into the 17th-20th place playoffs. Assuming they avoid bottom spot in the group, England will play eight games in the competition, with the final set for Sunday August 15.
Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk

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  WBA   


Gwinnett Majic Roll to Second Straight WBA Championship - by Joe Myers
The Gwinnett Majic steamrolled the Frnklin Knights 133-113, Saturday night at Bogan Park in Buford, Ga., to win their second straight World Basketball Association Exposure League (WBA) championship.
Gwinnett held a 33-24 lead after the opening quarter, but Franklin outscored the Majic 43-25 in the second period to take a 67-58 lead into the locker room at halftime. Gwinnett came back in the third quarter to tie the game at 91 heading into the final quarter and the Majic took control from there, outscoring Franklin 42-22 to pull away and win the title.
The Majic were led by Benjamin Puckett (6'9''-F-83, agency: NM Services, college: Clayton St.), who finished with a game-high 37 points and 10 rebounds. Adrien Borders (6'0''-G-83, college: Wofford) had 19 points and six rebounds, Michael Sloan (6'5''-G/F-84, college: Clayton St.) finished with 17 points, seven rebounds and five assists, Marcus Brown pitched in 16 points and seven rebounds and Patrick Shokpeka (6'3''-G-88, college: Armstrong Atlantic) netted 14 points in the victory.
Charles Little (6'6''-F-87, college: Dayton) led Franklin with 27 points. He was followed by Myles Thrash (6'0''-G-77, college: Stillman) (22), Jerrell Houston (6'8''-F-85, college: Tennessee St.) (17) and Maurice Williams (6'2''-G-83, college: Los Medanos JC) (11) as the Knights advanced to the WBA championship game in their first season.
The WBA Exposure League serves as a training ground to develop players on and off the court. Emphasis is placed on exposure, development, community involvement, and most importantly providing an exciting brand of basketball and entertainment. Hundreds of former WBA Players have gone on to play professional basketball all over the world including the D-League and NBA.
The Next Best Thing To The NBA!



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Women News

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  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


Day Four in Cairo - by Eurobasket News
Sunday was the fourth day of U18 AfroBasket in Cairo. Egypt and Nigeria outplayed their rivals and they are currently the leading teams of their groups. As a part of Group A, Egypt outplayed Angola for 3-0 record. Angola dropped to 2-2. In the same pool, Senegal outsmarted Tunisia 63-66 for the first win at this event. Tunisia stays winless after three appearances. In Group B, Nigeria destroyed Ivory Coast 84-34 for 3-0 score. It was the first game of Ivory Coast in Cairo.

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  ALBANIA - Women  


Estonia destroys Albania in Division B action - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Division B: ESTONIA - ALBANIA 127-33

Estonia demonstrated great performance in the first game of Division B action. They destroyed Albania 127-33 for 1-0 record in Group B. Participants of the same pool are also Switzerland, Luxembourg and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Gerly Kostla (180-F-80) scored 23 points in this victory and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. Jana Rannaveski (172-G-87) had 18 and Sandra Andersson netted one point less. Albania didnt have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Their leading player was Rezarta Hoxhaj (F-82) with 7 points and 7 boards.
Estonia dominated in all basketball segments in this game. They exploded in the first ten minutes scoring impressive 41 points. On the other side, Albania had only 3 and everything was already resolved. Estonia was a way better team for rest of the game as well. Second frame ended 24-10 and third 31-8. The only question was how big difference it till be at the end. Last ten minutes ended with 31-12 for the final 127-33 devastation by Estonia.
In the next game Estonia will meet Luxembourg (Wednesday). Albania will also play against Luxembourg, but on August 7.

Estonia: Gerly Kostla 23+5 boards, Jana Rannaveski 18, Sandra Andersson 17
Albania: Rezarta Hoxhaj 7+7 boards



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  BULGARIA - Women  


Lukoil Neftochimik brings in Faye Muller - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Bulgarian media, Lukoil Neftohimik has announced a new signing. Reportedly the club has reached an agreement with 25-year-old American center Faye Muller (191-F-84). Muller will be third summer signing for the club after the deals have previously been agreed with Aneta Miteva (181-G-88) and Maria Zhelyazkova (181-F-86, agency: Promotex). Muller is expected to reinforce the paint for Lukoil and to help on the glass. She is known for her rebounding as she was the leading rebounder for whichever team she has played so far. The player is expected to join her new teammates in the coming days. It remains to be seen what is the next step for Lukoil management and whether any new faces will be brought in.
Faye Muller played collegiate basketball at Division one UNLV. In her final season with UNLV she appeared in 28 games and has averaged 7.5 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. Her first professional team was Munich Basket, with whom Muller signed in January of 2008. She played in 13 games and has averaged 7.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per contest. Following season, she moved to Romania where she became a member of Oradea. She posted averages of 8.2 points and 9.8 boards in 13 games played. She left the club in January of 2009.

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  CROATIA - Women  


Croatia celebrates against Italy in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications: ITALY - CROATIA 69-76

Croatia did a great job in their first game of the EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications. Croatia cruised past Italy on the road for 1-0 in Group A. The game was played in Cagliari on Monday evening. Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) came up with 17 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) had 12 points for 13 minutes, while Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) (5 rebs) and Iva Sliskovic (196-F-84, college: S.Carolina) helped Croatia with 10 points each. For the hosts, Chiara Pastore (171-G-86) collected 16 points and 5 rebounds. Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80) stopped on 14 pts.
Everything started good for Italy, who made 25-16 lead in the first ten minutes. However, Ana Lelas and her teammates woke up after that replying with 18-25. The hosts still had 2-point lead at the half time, but they faced with fiasco in third frame. Croatia came up strong after the breather draining 22 points for ten minutes, while at the same time they limited Italy to 11. It was 54-63 for Croatia and ten minutes remaining in the game. Italy came to minus four in the finish, but they couldnt do anything more.
In the next game Croatia will meet Lithuania. Italy will play against Belgium (August 5).

Italy: Chiara Pastore 16+5 boards, Raffaella Masciadri 14
Croatia: Ana Lelas 17+8 boards, Marija Vrsaljko 12, Sandra Mandir 10+5 boards, Iva Sliskovic 10



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  ESTONIA - Women  


Estonia destroys Albania in Division B action - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Division B: ESTONIA - ALBANIA 127-33

Estonia demonstrated great performance in the first game of Division B action. They destroyed Albania 127-33 for 1-0 record in Group B. Participants of the same pool are also Switzerland, Luxembourg and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Gerly Kostla (180-F-80) scored 23 points in this victory and she grabbed 5 rebounds beside that. Jana Rannaveski (172-G-87) had 18 and Sandra Andersson netted one point less. Albania didnt have anyone with double-digits in scoring. Their leading player was Rezarta Hoxhaj (F-82) with 7 points and 7 boards.
Estonia dominated in all basketball segments in this game. They exploded in the first ten minutes scoring impressive 41 points. On the other side, Albania had only 3 and everything was already resolved. Estonia was a way better team for rest of the game as well. Second frame ended 24-10 and third 31-8. The only question was how big difference it till be at the end. Last ten minutes ended with 31-12 for the final 127-33 devastation by Estonia.
In the next game Estonia will meet Luxembourg (Wednesday). Albania will also play against Luxembourg, but on August 7.

Estonia: Gerly Kostla 23+5 boards, Jana Rannaveski 18, Sandra Andersson 17
Albania: Rezarta Hoxhaj 7+7 boards



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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications: Round One - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Lithuania - Holland 98-52
Lithuania demonstrated their power at the beginning of EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications. Lithuania destroyed Holland 98-52 for 1-0 record in Qualifying Group A. Croatia also celebrated in this pool yesterday. Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) came up with 18 points and 5 rebounds in victory. Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) scored 15, while Egle Stakneviciene (190-F-85) and Agne Abromaite (188-F-79, college: Connecticut) delivered 14 points each. Maaike Klein (177-G-90) answered with 12 points in Holland. Anouk Biesters (182-G/F-86) had two points less than her. Holland and Italy have 0-1 in Group A now. Lithuania dominated in all basketball segments today. They started with 22-17 and continued with 22-13 in the second quarter. At that time it was already clear that Holland will not have a chance. Lithuania exploded offensively after the breather draining 31 points in third and 23 pts in the last quarter. Holland was limited to 16+6 and faced with huge 98-52 loss in Kaunas. Lithuania will meet Croatia on August 5. Holland will meet the same team, but three days later.

Italy - Croatia 69-76
Croatia did a great job in their first game of the EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications. Croatia cruised past Italy on the road for 1-0 in Group A. The game was played in Cagliari on Monday evening. Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) came up with 17 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) had 12 points for 13 minutes, while Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) (5 rebs) and Iva Sliskovic (196-F-84, college: S.Carolina) helped Croatia with 10 points each. For the hosts, Chiara Pastore (171-G-86) collected 16 points and 5 rebounds. Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80) stopped on 14 pts. Everything started good for Italy, who made 25-16 lead in the first ten minutes. However, Ana Lelas and her teammates woke up after that replying with 18-25. The hosts still had 2-point lead at the half time, but they faced with fiasco in third frame. Croatia came up strong after the breather draining 22 points for ten minutes, while at the same time they limited Italy to 11. It was 54-63 for Croatia and ten minutes remaining in the game. Italy came to minus four in the finish, but they couldn't do anything more. In the next game Croatia will meet Lithuania. Italy will play against Belgium (August 5).
Group C
Hungary - Montenegro 65-76
Montenegro opened the EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications in style. They outplayed Hungary on the road 65-76 for 1-0 record in Qualifying Group C. Iva Perovanovic (191-C/F-83) was the leading player in victory with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Ana Baletic (185-G/F-85) also had very important role adding 14 points and 6 boards. Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) and Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) added 11 points each. In the loosing squad, Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) delivered 11 points. Dora Horti (195-C-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) had 15 points and 8 boards, while Tijana Krivacevic (194-F-90) contributed with 11 pts. Hungary dropped to 0-1 in Group C. Everything started good for Hungary, who made 24-16 lead in the first ten minutes. They were slightly better than Montenegro in Q2 (15-14) for plus nine at the halftime. Montenegro was in trouble, but their players didn't panic. Iva Perovanovic and her teammates recovered and started to play much better in third frame. They intensified defense limiting Hungary to 10 pts in ten minutes, while on the other side their drained 20. That was not all as Montenegro dominated in the last quarter as well ending it with impressive 16-26. Of course that was enough for the first win in Group C and step forward to EuroBasket 2011 in Poland. Montenegro will play their next game on August 8 against Bulgaria. Hungary will meet the same rival three days earlier.

Turkey - Bulgaria 76-67
Turkey opened the EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications with victory. They outplayed Bulgaria 76-67 in Konya today making a first step forward to Poland. Turkey and Bulgaria are together with Montenegro, Hungary and Finland placed to Qualifying Group C. Esmeral Tuncluer (175-G-80) top-scored for Turkey with 18 points. Bahar Caglar (188-F-88) had 13 points and 6 rebounds, while Melek Bilge (193-C-89) added 10 pts and 6 rebs. Bulgaria got 19 points and 5 rebounds from Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88). Doneeka Hodges (175-G-82, college: LSU) and Dimana Georgieva (190-C-88) delivered 16 and 14 points respectively. Turkey did a great job in the first quarter. Esmeral Tuncluer and her teammates exploded offensively scoring 24 points in the first ten minutes. Bulgaria was shocked and faced with 14-point deficit before the Q2. Visitors improved after that, but still Turkey ended the second period with 20-18 for plus 16 at the half time. Bulgaria was in trouble, but they tried to mount comeback. However, Turkish players were strong enough to deny their attacks and to close this game with nice 76-67. Turkey will play against Finland on Thursday. Bulgaria will take on Hungary at the same day.

Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)
Points Per Game
 Iva PEROVANOVIC
  MNT
  (191-C/F-83)
  Avg: 22
 1. Perovanovic, MNT22.0 
 2. Fegyverneky, HUN21.0 
 3. Zlatanova, BUL19.0 
 4. Tuncluer, TUR18.0 
 5. Petronyte, LTU18.0 
 6. Lelas, CRO17.0 
 7. Pastore, ITA16.0 
 8. Horti, HUN15.0 
 9. Linkeviciene, LTU15.0 
 10. Masciadri, ITA14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Giedre PAUGAITE
  (192-C-90)
  Avg: 9
 1. Paugaite, LTU9.0 
 2. Lelas, CRO8.0 
 3. Horti, HUN8.0 
 4. Perovanovic, MNT7.0 
 5. Skerovic, MNT7.0 
 6. Baletic, MNT6.0 
 7. Ress, ITA6.0 
 8. Turcinovic, MNT6.0 
 9. Caglar, TUR6.0 
 10. Petronyte, LTU6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Jelena SKEROVIC
  SRB
  (172-G-80)
  Avg: 5
 1. Skerovic, MNT5.0 
 2. Vardarli, TUR5.0 
 3. Linkeviciene, LTU4.0 
 4. Gianolla, ITA4.0 
 5. Staugaitiene, LTU4.0 
 6. Mandir, CRO3.0 
 7. Yigit, TUR3.0 
 8. Fegyverneky, HUN3.0 
 9. Beld, NED3.0 
 10. Siyahdemir, TUR3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Zsofia FEGYVERNEKY
  (178-G-84)
  Avg: 5
 1. Fegyverneky, HUN5.0 
 2. Perovanovic, MNT4.0 
 3. Klein, NED3.0 
 4. Skerovic, MNT3.0 
 5. Peteva, BUL2.0 
 6. Vardarli, TUR2.0 
 7. Ivezic, CRO2.0 
 8. Turcinovic, MNT1.0 
 9. Beld, NED1.0 
 10. Roetgerink, NED1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Kathirin RESS
  (196-C-85)
  Avg: 2
 1. Ress, ITA2.0 
 2. Petronyte, LTU2.0 
 3. Sipaviciute, LTU2.0 
 4. Masciadri, ITA1.0 
 5. Turcinovic, MNT1.0 
 6. Miteva, BUL1.0 
 7. Kraak, NED1.0 
 8. Alexander, ITA1.0 
 9. Paugaite, LTU1.0 
 10. Caglar, TUR1.0 


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


W-Standings - Group A
Standings
Group E
1. Spain4-0
2. Russia3-1
3. Slovenia2-2
4. Sweden2-2
5. Slovakia1-3
6. Serbia0-4
Group F
1. Italy4-0
2. Lithuania3-1
3. France3-1
4. Turkey1-3
5. Ukraine1-3
6. Poland0-4
Group H
1. Belgium1-1
2. Czech Repu.1-1
3. Hungary1-1
4. Latvia1-1


Standings - Division B - by Eurobasket News
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Greece4-0
2. Romania3-1
3. Switzerlan.2-2
4. Portugal1-3
5. Luxembourg.0-4
Group B
1. Croatia3-0
2. Denmark2-1
3. Germany1-2
4. Bosnia0-3
Group C
1. U.Kingdom4-0
2. Finland3-1
3. Estonia2-2
4. Bulgaria1-3
5. Scotland0-4
Group D
1. Belarus3-0
2. Holland2-1
3. Montenegro.1-2
4. Israel0-3


Division A: Day Five in Poprad (Qualifying Round) - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Spain - Slovenia 63-31
Spain destroyed Slovenia to stay unbeaten in Group E with 4-0 record. Laura Gil Collado was the leading player in victory with 8 points and 12 rebounds. Slovenia (2-2) got 10 points from Bojana Adamovic (176-G-92).

Slovakia - Russia 51-68
Russia jumped 3-1 and booked a spot for the Quarterfinals in Poprad. Yulia Poluyanova (187-F-92) was on fire today with 22 points (5 rebounds). Noema Bradnanska (176-G/F-93) delivered 10 points in defeat, while her Slovakia dropped to 1-3.

Sweden - Serbia 61-42
Sweden registered valuable win against Serbia making a huge step forward to Quarterfinals. Serbia dropped to 0-4 with no chance to advance. Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) shined in Sweden with 19 points and 7 rebounds. Snezana Colic (176-G-92) netted 16 points in loss.
Group F
Italy - Ukraine 81-51
Italy stayed perfect in Poprad after this game. Lucia Morsiani (186-C-92) shined with 17 points and 5 rebounds, reaching valuation 19. Ukraine got 13 points and 6 boards from Alina Iagupova (179-G-92) falling to 1-3, but still with a chance to reach the QFinals.

Turkey - Poland 68-64
1-3 for Turkey and 0-4 for Poland after this game. Azge Kavurmacioglu (187-F-93) was a key player in victory with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Paulina Kuras (170-G-92) collected 15 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.

Lithuania - France 69-64
Lithuania outplayed France handing them the first loss at this event. Both teams already booked a spot for the QFinals. Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) exploded with 29 points today. France got 12 pts from Melanie Devaux (171-G-92).
Group G
Czech Republic - Belgium 62-70
Belgium grabbed this one mostly owing to Lut De Meyer (180-F-92), who scored 21 points and pulled down 9 rebounds. Tereza Vyoralova (175-G-94) collected 14 pts and 6 rebounds for Czech Republic. All teams in Group G have 1-1 record now.

Latvia - Hungary 66-70
Hungary was better than Latvia and all teams have 1-1 record now in Group G. Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92) paced Hungary to victory with 17 points. Linda Pagrode (172-G-92) delivered 18 in defeat.

Div.A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Alina IAGUPOVA
  (179-G-92)
  Avg: 31.4
 1. Iagupova, UKR31.4 
 2. Baric, SLO23.8 
 3. Okockyte, LTU19.2 
 4. Gortnar, SLO18.8 
 5. Zahui, SWE16.8 
 6. Efimova, RUS15.8 
 7. Kavurmaciogl., TUR15.4 
 8. Zietara, POL14.8 
 9. Demirkol, TUR14.4 
 10. Poluyanova, RUS14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Azge KAVURMACIOGLU
  (187-F-93)
  Avg: 11
 1. Kavurmaciogl., TUR11.0 
 2. Naumenko, UKR9.8 
 3. Zaveckaite, LTU9.2 
 4. Zahui, SWE9.0 
 5. Svaryte, LTU9.0 
 6. Barba, FRA9.0 
 7. Brajkovic, SRB8.6 
 8. Gortnar, SLO8.5 
 9. Szczepanik, POL7.8 
 10. Iagupova, UKR7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Nika BARIC
  (169-G-92)
  Avg: 6
 1. Baric, SLO6.0 
 2. Carta, ITA4.6 
 3. Palenikova, SVK3.8 
 4. Maksimova, RUS3.8 
 5. Radjati, FRA3.8 
 6. Okockyte, LTU3.6 
 7. Gorini, ITA3.6 
 8. Kabengano, SWE3.2 
 9. Pasynkova, RUS3.2 
 10. Kusova, CZE3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Tereza VYORALOVA
  (175-G-94)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Vyoralova, CZE3.5 
 2. Iagupova, UKR3.4 
 3. Carta, ITA3.4 
 4. Colic, SRB3.0 
 5. Bradnanska, SVK3.0 
 6. Baric, SLO2.8 
 7. Ortiz, ESP2.8 
 8. Okockyte, LTU2.8 
 9. Jakovina, SLO2.5 
 10. Gorini, ITA2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Barbora VECHTOVA
  (186-C-92)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Vechtova, CZE2.2 
 2. Gortnar, SLO1.8 
 3. Svaryte, LTU1.6 
 4. Kissova, SVK1.4 
 5. Iagupova, UKR1.4 
 6. Zahui, SWE1.4 
 7. Szczepanik, POL1.3 
 8. Stauere, LAT1.2 
 9. Zietara, POL1.2 
 10. Lagzdina, LAT1.2 


Div.B Stats Leaders - by Eurobasket
Points Per Game
 Cristina BIGICA
  (182-F-92)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Bigica, ROM19.5 
 2. Spanou, GRE19.0 
 3. Ryder, DEN17.7 
 4. Musatava, BLR16.5 
 5. Bratka, EST16.0 
 6. Fagbenle, ENG14.5 
 7. Premasunac, CRO14.3 
 8. Shafir, ISR14.3 
 9. Todoric, CRO14.3 
 10. Bohdan, BLR14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Temitope FAGBENLE
  (191-F-92)
  Avg: 13.8
 1. Fagbenle, ENG13.8 
 2. Premasunac, CRO11.7 
 3. Filonchyk, BLR11.0 
 4. Greinacher, GER10.3 
 5. Bohdan, BLR9.7 
 6. Saarinen, FIN9.5 
 7. Spanou, GRE9.0 
 8. Ursu, ROM9.0 
 9. Mestrovic, CRO8.7 
 10. Ostergaard, DEN8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Ema MESTROVIC
  (168-F-93)
  Avg: 4
 1. Mestrovic, CRO4.0 
 2. Ryder, DEN3.7 
 3. Musatava, BLR3.5 
 4. Iiskola, FIN3.5 
 5. Dorestant, SUI3.3 
 6. Cursaru, ROM3.3 
 7. Gaudermann, GER3.0 
 8. Vucetic, MNT3.0 
 9. Dzombeta, BIH3.0 
 10. Pilv, EST3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Ema MESTROVIC
  (168-F-93)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Mestrovic, CRO5.3 
 2. Pilv, EST4.8 
 3. Dzombeta, BIH4.0 
 4. Puljic, CRO3.7 
 5. Todoric, CRO3.7 
 6. Zovile, LUX3.5 
 7. Gaudermann, GER3.3 
 8. Koster, EST3.3 
 9. Butter, NED3.0 
 10. Ryder, DEN3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Temitope FAGBENLE
  (191-F-92)
  Avg: 3
 1. Fagbenle, ENG3.0 
 2. Rashchenia, BLR2.7 
 3. Filonchyk, BLR2.0 
 4. Craciun, ROM2.0 
 5. Premasunac, CRO1.7 
 6. Dzinic, BIH1.7 
 7. Ivashchanka, BLR1.5 
 8. Thompson, ENG1.3 
 9. Greinacher, GER1.3 
 10. Milic, BIH1.3 


Division B: Preliminary Round is over in Timisoara - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Luxembourg - Romania 49-75
Romania blasted Luxembourg finishing the first stage as No.2 of Group A with 3-1 record. It means that the host of this event advanced to Qualifying Round, while Luxembourg ended with poor 0-4 and will be transferred to Classification Games. Sonia Ursu (175-F-93) shined for Romania with 17 points. Lena Hetto (184-F-93) collected 19 pts and 7 boards in defeat.

Switzerland - Portugal 79-73
Both teams failed to reach the next stage. Switzerland grabbed win in this game mostly owing to Dana Bozovic (180-F-93), who came up with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Portugal got 20 points and 7 rebs from Maria Joao Andrade (186-F/C-92).
Group C
Scotland - Bulgaria 38-61
Both squads will be transferred to Classification Games for 9th to 18th place. Bulgaria grabbed the first win at this event mostly thanks to Mariya Svetoslavova (178-F-93) (7 rebs) and Nora Georgieva (174-F-92) (5 rebs), who scored 10 pts each. Scotland got 16 pts and 9 rebs from Erin McGarrachan (182-F-92).

Estonia - United Kingdom 68-75
The UK ended this stage with perfect 4-0 record (No.1 of Group C). They got 22 points from Gemma Bullard (177-G-92) in this game. Estonia dropped to 2-2 and failed to reach the next stage. Their leading player was Maaja Bratka (186-C-92) with 25 pts and 11 rebs.

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


A2 transfer news - by Eurobasket News
Laura Fumagalli (178-G-85) heads to Basket Team Crema. The player appeared in 2004-2005 for Terra Sarda Alghero (A1) and in 7 games averaged 6pts. Later she played for PentaMedia Carugate (A2, starting five) and three years at Sea Logistic Systems Crema (A2).
Costanza Giorgi (185-C-89) will play for La Mercede Basket Alghero. In 2007-2008 she sttarted for Castellani Pontedera (A2) and the last season spent in Consum.it Siena (A2).
Calabra Maceri Rende will keep Giulia Zoccali (93), Federica Monaco (165-G-93), Roberta Di Gregorio, Clara Del Monaco, Serena Morrone (92), Giulia Zoccali (93), Francesca Strano, Cristiana Gallo (180-F/C-87), Lidia Castagna (180-F/C-71), Edina Urmos (185-C-86), Sara Lauria (185-F-91) and Michela Citrigno (93).
Libertas Basket Bologna tabs Marcella Barlassina (172-G-91). Italian guard started in 2007-2008 for Gea Magazzini Alcamo (A2) and after two years there moved to Mercede Basket Alghero (A2, starting five).
Elena Riccardi (187-F-82), Marika Zanardi (175-G-81), Valeria Carnemolla (168-G/F-82) and Alejandra Chesta (187-F-82) are the players for Ciplast in 2010/2011 season. Elena Riccardi was the latest signing for the team and will come from Bologna. In 2005-2006 she started for Ducato Siena (A2) and in 2006-2007 moved to New Wash Montigarda (A1). In 2007-2008 appeared for Banco di Sicilia Ribera (A1) and in 29 games averaged 2.0ppg, 2.5rpg. In 2008-2009 continued with the team and debuted in EuroCup. In 2009-2010 started for Famila Wuber Schio (A1): DNP, then moved to Meccanica Nova Bologna (A2, starting five).



Croatia celebrates against Italy in Cagliari - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications: ITALY - CROATIA 69-76

Croatia did a great job in their first game of the EuroBasket 2011 Qualifications. Croatia cruised past Italy on the road for 1-0 in Group A. The game was played in Cagliari on Monday evening. Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) came up with 17 points and 8 rebounds in victory. Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) had 12 points for 13 minutes, while Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) (5 rebs) and Iva Sliskovic (196-F-84, college: S.Carolina) helped Croatia with 10 points each. For the hosts, Chiara Pastore (171-G-86) collected 16 points and 5 rebounds. Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80) stopped on 14 pts.
Everything started good for Italy, who made 25-16 lead in the first ten minutes. However, Ana Lelas and her teammates woke up after that replying with 18-25. The hosts still had 2-point lead at the half time, but they faced with fiasco in third frame. Croatia came up strong after the breather draining 22 points for ten minutes, while at the same time they limited Italy to 11. It was 54-63 for Croatia and ten minutes remaining in the game. Italy came to minus four in the finish, but they couldnt do anything more.
In the next game Croatia will meet Lithuania. Italy will play against Belgium (August 5).

Italy: Chiara Pastore 16+5 boards, Raffaella Masciadri 14
Croatia: Ana Lelas 17+8 boards, Marija Vrsaljko 12, Sandra Mandir 10+5 boards, Iva Sliskovic 10



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


Switzerland beats Luxembourg in Fribourg - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Division B: SWITZERLAND - LUXEMBOURG 66-56

Switzerland opened up their bid to reach Division A with a hard fought 66-56 win over Luxembourg in Fribourg. Marielle Giroud (180-F-87) stepped up for Switzerland with 22 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 27 and was the MVP of this meeting. Karen Twehues (182-G-83, college: Cincinnati) was the second scorer in this victory with 21 points (5 triples). Annie Kassongo (185-F-87) helped with 8 points and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Lisy Hetting (173-G-90) top-scored with 13 points. Tessy Hetting (188-F-86) added 11. Both teams are placed to Qualifying Group B. Participants of the same pool are also Estonia, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Switzerland opened the game with 23-13 and was looking good. Marielle Giroud and her teammates intensified defense in the second frame and they limited Luxembourg to 3 points in ten minutes, while they delivered 13 on the other side. It means that Switzerland held nice 36-17 lead at the halftime. Luxembourg improved after the breather (13-20), but they needed a way more. Swiss players were strong enough to keep the safe distance in the last frame and to celebrate 66-56 win.
In the next game Switzerland will meet Bosnia and Herzegovina (Wednesday). Luxembourg will play against Estonia at the same day.

Switzerland: Marielle Giroud 22+14 boards, Karen Twehues 21, Annie Kassongo 8+9 boards
Luxembourg: Lisy Hetting 13, Tessy Hetting 11



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


Better than Hungary - by Dragan Scepanovic
Montenegro NT successful started in qualifying for Euro 2011th in Poland. Montenegrin basketball players in the first round Group C of Miskolc beat Hungary 75:65 (24:16, 15:14, 10:20, 16:27).In triumph best player are Iva Perovanovic (191-C/F-83) (22 points, 16 in the second part, seven rebounds), Ana Baletic (185-G/F-85) (14 points, six caught the ball), Milka Bjelica (11 points) and Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) (11 points, five rebounds). In the second match of our group, Turkey win in game against Bulgaria 76:67.


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  NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS - Women  


Palau post first win at 7th Micronesian Games - by Eurobasket News
Palau - CNMI 64:47
Palau opened the 7th Micronesian Games campaign with victory. The hosts of the tournament knocked down Northern Mariana Islands. Palau gradually picked up the tempo and ran away for the victory at the end.
Palau and CNMI stayed close throughout the starting quarter. The hosts were up by just two points at the first break. But gradually Palau grabbed the initiative. The second and third terms helped Palau stretch the margin to 8 points. Northern Mariana Islands could not pick up the slack in the fourth quarter. Palau capitalized and cleared off to rally to the victory at the end. Stephanie Calvo knocked down 16 points to pace Palau. Carrissa Trolii provided 15 points for the winners. Connie Comacho responded with 13 points for CNMI. Lia Rangamar had 9 points in the losing effort.
Palau and Northern Mariana Islands will fight against Guam, Chuuk, Marshall Islands for the trophy.

Palau: Stephanie Calvo 16, Carrissa Trolii 15
CNMI: Connie Comacho 13, Lia Rangamar 9


*****************************************************
  PALAU - Women  


Palau post first win at 7th Micronesian Games - by Eurobasket News
Palau - CNMI 64:47
Palau opened the 7th Micronesian Games campaign with victory. The hosts of the tournament knocked down Northern Mariana Islands. Palau gradually picked up the tempo and ran away for the victory at the end.
Palau and CNMI stayed close throughout the starting quarter. The hosts were up by just two points at the first break. But gradually Palau grabbed the initiative. The second and third terms helped Palau stretch the margin to 8 points. Northern Mariana Islands could not pick up the slack in the fourth quarter. Palau capitalized and cleared off to rally to the victory at the end. Stephanie Calvo knocked down 16 points to pace Palau. Carrissa Trolii provided 15 points for the winners. Connie Comacho responded with 13 points for CNMI. Lia Rangamar had 9 points in the losing effort.
Palau and Northern Mariana Islands will fight against Guam, Chuuk, Marshall Islands for the trophy.

Palau: Stephanie Calvo 16, Carrissa Trolii 15
CNMI: Connie Comacho 13, Lia Rangamar 9


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


Russian Women National Team 2010 - by Eurobasket News
Russia announced the wide list for the members of the national team that will play in Eurobasket 2010 in Czech Republic.
Natalia Vieira
Irina Osipova
Nadezhda Grishaeva (193-C/F-89)
Marina Kuzina
Anastasia Logunova
Natalia Myasoedova
Maria Stepanova (203-C-79)
Elena Volkova
Elena Danilochkina
Natalia Zhedik
Ilona Korstine (183-G-80)
Becky Hammon (168-G-77, college: Colorado St.)
Svetlana Abrosimova (185-F-80, college: Connecticut)
Olga Arteshina (182-F-82)
Tatiana Widmer
Katerina Keyru
Tatyana Popova
Anna Petrakova (188-F-84)
Ludmila Sapova
Irina Sokolovskaya
Tatiana Shchegoleva



*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND - Women  


Teams 2010-2011 LNA Championship - by Melanie Nussbaumer
8 Teams will compete in The 2010-2011 LNA Women Championship. Here is the list of the teams: Esperance Sportive Pully, Sdent Nyon Basket Feminin, Hope-GBA, Sdent Helios Basket, BCF Elfic Fribourg Basket, Canti Riva Basket Ceresio, SC Uni Basel Basket, Lu-Town Highflyers. After the decision of the 2009-2010 Swiss Champions Sdent Sierre Basket to retire their team, the league promoted 2 teams from LNB, the champions, SC Uni Basel Basket and the 2nd at the rank Lu-Town Highflyers. Also new comer in the LNA championship, Hope-GBA will make its debut in swiss 1st division. The season opening is on September 25th 2010.

Switzerland beats Luxembourg in Fribourg - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Division B: SWITZERLAND - LUXEMBOURG 66-56

Switzerland opened up their bid to reach Division A with a hard fought 66-56 win over Luxembourg in Fribourg. Marielle Giroud (180-F-87) stepped up for Switzerland with 22 points and 14 rebounds. She reached valuation 27 and was the MVP of this meeting. Karen Twehues (182-G-83, college: Cincinnati) was the second scorer in this victory with 21 points (5 triples). Annie Kassongo (185-F-87) helped with 8 points and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Lisy Hetting (173-G-90) top-scored with 13 points. Tessy Hetting (188-F-86) added 11. Both teams are placed to Qualifying Group B. Participants of the same pool are also Estonia, Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Switzerland opened the game with 23-13 and was looking good. Marielle Giroud and her teammates intensified defense in the second frame and they limited Luxembourg to 3 points in ten minutes, while they delivered 13 on the other side. It means that Switzerland held nice 36-17 lead at the halftime. Luxembourg improved after the breather (13-20), but they needed a way more. Swiss players were strong enough to keep the safe distance in the last frame and to celebrate 66-56 win.
In the next game Switzerland will meet Bosnia and Herzegovina (Wednesday). Luxembourg will play against Estonia at the same day.

Switzerland: Marielle Giroud 22+14 boards, Karen Twehues 21, Annie Kassongo 8+9 boards
Luxembourg: Lisy Hetting 13, Tessy Hetting 11