EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/13/2011

Copyright © 1997-2011 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Michael LEE
  Radnicki
  (207-F-86)
  Avg: 21.4
 1. Lee, Radnicki21.4 
 2. Macvan, Hemofarm19.2 
 3. Zoric, KK.18.8 
 4. Draper, Cedevita18.7 
 5. Bogdanovic, Cibona18.3 
 6. Car, Zadar17.8 
 7. Edwards, Cedevita17.5 
 8. Marsh, Crvena Z.16.8 
 9. Chase, Igokea16.1 
 10. Young, Crvena Z.15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8.9
 1. Zoric, KK.8.9 
 2. Kasun, KK.7.0 
 3. Macvan, Hemofarm6.8 
 4. Necas, CEZ Nymburk6.6 
 5. Dragicevic, Buduc.6.5 
 6. Booker, Krka6.2 
 7. Gist, Partizan6.1 
 8. Lee, Radnicki5.9 
 9. Zubcic, Cibona5.8 
 10. Markota, Union O.5.6 
Assists Per Game
 Dontaye DRAPER
  Cedevita
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Draper, Cedevita5.9 
 2. Markovic, Radnicki4.7 
 3. Pavkovic, Hemofarm4.6 
 4. Lafayette, Partizan4.2 
 5. Morovic, Siroki TT4.2 
 6. Stipcevic, Cibona3.6 
 7. Nissim, CEZ N.3.6 
 8. Ilievski, Union O.3.6 
 9. Vladovic, Zadar3.5 
 10. Bazdaric, Cedevita3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Dontaye DRAPER
  Cedevita
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Draper, Cedevita2.6 
 2. Lee, Radnicki2.3 
 3. Lafayette, Partizan2.2 
 4. Stemberger, Siroki T.2.2 
 5. Pumprla, CEZ N.1.9 
 6. Radosevic, Cibona1.9 
 7. Car, Zadar1.9 
 8. Dragic, Krka1.9 
 9. Ozbolt, Union O.1.8 
 10. Simmons, CEZ N.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Zoric, KK.1.2 
 2. Dragicevic, Buduc.1.0 
 3. Nikolic, Crvena Z.1.0 
 4. Vesely, Partizan0.9 
 5. Radosevic, Cibona0.9 
 6. Booker, Krka0.8 
 7. Shermadini, Union O.0.8 
 8. Chan, CEZ Nymburk0.8 
 9. Macvan, Hemofarm0.7 
 10. Jawai, Partizan0.6 


*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Flamengo off to winning start in Liga Americas - by Eurobasket News
Flamengo - Quimsa 78:72

Flamengo registered the first win at the Liga Americas latest edition. The Brazilian powerhouse knocked down Quimsa in Group C opener. David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue) notched 20 points to lead the effort. Flamengo will take on Mavort, while Quimsa will face Espanol de Talca in the next round.
Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) scored 7 points in the first frame as Flamengo took control. They posted a 23:22 lead after ten minutes. Quimsa however did not allow Flamengo to stretch the margin in the second quarter. Moreover the Argentinean side leveled things up at 36 at halftime. Roman Gonzalez put Quimsa in charge in the third stanza. But not for too long as David Teague and Guilherme Teichmann (204-F/C-83, college: Tulsa) returned Flamengo on top 55:54 with one quarter remaining. Quimsa pulled in front once again but it was David Teague and Fred Santos who notched a pair of three-pointers and Flamengo retuned the lead for good in this one. Marcelinho Machado knocked down 17 points for Flamengo. Guilherme Teichmann added 14 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78) replied with 23 points for Quimsa. Julio Mazzaro (190-G-79) finished with 20 points in the defeat.

Flamengo: David Teague 20, Marcelinho Machado 17, Guilherme Teichmann 14+11 boards
Quimsa: Diego Lo Grippo 23, Julio Mazzaro 20


Liga A update - by Facundo Iatzky
After the first 2 rounds of the 2011, things have changed a little bit. The biggest surprisse of the week was the victory of Boca over Penarol on the road. Boca was the last ranked and Penarol the first one, but in basketball, nothing is predictable, so Boca jrs won and now they shared the last position with sionista, that is in a bad moment, having lost 5 straight games. In the top of the standings, Penarol, despite their lost game, remains in the first position. Obras Sanitarias is the second one, then Atenas, La union and Libertad.
The top performances of the week belong to: Federico Kammerichs, the key of the victory of regatas against atenas, Jerome Meyinsse, the american rookie who is having a great season, Djibril Kante of Olimpico.

Love This Game!!! - by Joshua Pittman
Just having a moment while watching an NBA game on tv. We are soo blessed to be able to play this game and support our families and friends. Sometimes I could be having the worse day of my life but there is something about picking up a basketball that makes all that pain go away. It can be for 5 minutes or 2 hours but there is no trace of pain or ill feelings at all. The game takes it all away within seconds. I thank God daily for blessing me with the opportunities I have had and hopefully the ones I will have in the future. All players please remember to always appreciate this blessing we have knowing it will not be here forever. Until next time peace and love to all!!!

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


Penney named NBL Player of the month, Bevo wins coach award - by Eurobasket News
New Zealand Breakers star shooting guard Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) has been named as the National Basketball Leagues Player of the Month for December, while Perth Wildcats mentor Rob Beveridge has taken out Coach of the Month honours.

Penney took out the award for December after polling 38 votes to finish ahead of Melbourne Tigers guard Corey Homicide Williams (25 votes) and Perths Shawn Redhage (15).

For December, Penney averaged 20.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists over the course of the Breakers five games. He shot the ball at 45% from the field, including a scorching 51% from the perimeter.

Penneys efforts helped the Breakers go 4-1 for the month as they surged to the top of the iiNet NBL Championship table.

Impressive as the Breakers record was for December, the Perth Wildcats had a perfect month with a 5-0 win-loss ratio and their head coach Rob Beveridge was rewarded accordingly with Coach of the Month honours.

Bevo was a clear winner, receiving 46 votes to finish well ahead of New Zealand coach Andrej Lemanis who received 27 votes and Cairns Taipans leader Aaron Fearne on 20.

The Wildcats recorded wins over Townsville, Melbourne, Sydney (twice) and Gold Coast during December.

The NBLs Player and Coach of the Month for December took into account Rounds 8 to 12 of the iiNet NBL Championship inclusive. All NBL Head Coaches and accredited media were eligible to vote for the awards.


Player of the Month
Kirk Penney (New Zealand) - 38
Corey Williams (Melbourne) - 25
Shawn Redhage (Perth) - 15
Julian Khazzouh (Sydney) - 8
Luke Schenscher (Townsville) - 6
Gary Ervin (Wollongong) - 4
Mark Worthington (Gold Coast) - 2
Gary Wilkinson (New Zealand) - 1
Eric Devendorf (Melbourne) - 1
Ayinde Ubaka (Cairns) - 1


Coach of the Month
Rob Beveridge (Perth) - 46
Andrej Lemanis (New Zealand) - 27
Aaron Fearne (Cairns) - 20
Al Westover (Melbourne) - 5
Marty Clarke (Adelaide) - 3
Joey Wright (Gold Coast) - 1

Courtesy of NBL (www.nbl.com.au)



NBL Round 14 Preview - by Duncan Matheson
New Zealand Breakers v Skytrans Cairns Taipans

Top of the table clash between the 11-3 Breakers and 9-3 Taipans, with both teams trying to establish themselves as the leagues best team. The Breakers won comfortably when the two teams met earlier in the season in NZ, and it will be a big test for Cairns who have played just four games on the road for a 1-3 record. Gary Wilkinson (206-F-82, college: Utah St.) was in outstanding form last week with 27 points on 12-16 FG, while Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) will look to bounce back after a couple of sub-par games by his standards. Ian Crosswhite (212-C-82, college: Oregon) with 24 points on 10-15 last week against the Blaze sets up a good battle at the five with Wilkinson, while Ayinde Ubaka (193-G-85, college: California) re-found his touch with 19 points on 5-7 3pt FG and will need to produce a big game to cause an upset. These two teams play very different tempos with the Taipans wanting to slow this one down and grind it out, but the Breakers will look to ensure the game is played at a quick tempo to advantage their explosive offence and should be too strong.

Perth Wildcats v Wollongong Hawks

Perth were shock losers at home last week against the Tigers, while the Hawks lost at the Gold Coast by 1 in OT to make it four straight losses. That sets the scene for a tenacious battle between two hungry teams and last years grand finalists. For the Hawks, it has become evident someone needs to step up and provide some scoring assistance for Gary Ervin (186-G-83, college: Arkansas) as he has been left too often to do it himself. Young Tyson Demos (192-G-88) has been very impressive and other than Ervin looks most likely to create his own shot, highlighting the significance of the loss of Glen Saville (197-G/F-76). The Wildcats will look to bounce back and Damian Martin (188-G-84, college: Loyola Marymount) will have the job of playing the most time on Ervin and knowing that in all likelihood slowing him down means slowing down the Hawks. Ater Majok (208-F-87, college: Connecticut) will also look to have an impact and bother the interior shots of Ervin, while Shawn Redhage (203-F-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Arizona St.) is so consistent and will look to get the Wildcats back on track with a home win.

Townsville Crocodiles v Melbourne Tigers

Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St.) returns to Townsville, part two. The Tigers were smashed 94-66 on their first trip to Townsville this season and after winning their last three will take a lot more confidence into this visit. Williams put the team on his back last week with 26 points and 6 assists and will look to have a similar impact against his former club. After a slow start Eric Devendorf (193-G-87, college: Syracuse) has been in truly outstanding form the last few weeks, forming a dynamic backcourt duo with Williams. Luke Nevill (218-C-86, college: Utah) has also been in strong form for the Tigers, and his battle at the five with Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) will be crucial. Townsville fought out a 80-73 win over the Kings last week. After an incredibly sluggish start to the season, Bradley Williamson (197-F/G-81) has stepped up in a big way for the Crocs, and last week led all scorers with 21 points on 6-11 3pt FG. The Crocs are a very proud team at home, but with the Tigers riding a wave of confidence and Williams hungry to inflict defeat on his old team this one could go either way.

Skytrans Cairns Taipans v Melbourne Tigers

The Taipans will be returning from playing in New Zealand on the Thursday night, but its the Tigers who should be more affected by fatigue playing in Townsville the night before which should give the Taipans the edge. The Taipans are still undefeated at home at 8-0 and will look to keep that record intact. Alexander Loughton (205-F/C-83, college: ODU) has been off the last few weeks and will look to have a strong game to solidify himself as one of the premier forwards of the competition. The Taipans will use a recipe of suffocating half-court defence to set themselves up for a win, knowing that Corey Williams and Eric Devendorf will again be the keys. The Taipans are a very well-balanced outfit and dont have players that jump off the page with their dominance. But they have great depth and the likes of Ronald Dorsey (197-G/F-83, college: McNeese St.) and Dusty Rychart (201-F-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Minnesota) can sneak under the oppositions guard and the Taipans should be too good.

Adelaide 36ers v Gold Coast Blaze

Although only at the half way point of the season, the 36ers loss at home last week almost spelled the end of their season. Having played more games at home than away, and still yet to secure a road win, the 36ers loss to the Breakers was a massive blow to their playoff homes and they must string together a long run of wins starting against the Blaze to be any hope. The Blaze are in a similar position, keeping themselves afloat with a last gasp home win over the Hawks. Adam Ballinger (205-F-79, college: Michigan St.) was outstanding last week with 27 points on 12-18 FG, and that is the number of field goal attempts he is going to need more often for him and Adelaide to succeed. For the Breakers, its been all about Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) who has caught fire in recent weeks. In Cairns last week he had 31 points on 11-17 FG, before having 21 points and 12 rebounds in the win over the Hawks. He is once again going to have to lead from the front for the Blaze for them to get a key road win and keep their finals dreams alive.


*****************************************************
  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Standings
Balkan League Standings
Group A
 1. Levski 5-1 
 2. Beograd 4-1 
 3. Zrinjski HT 3-2 
 4. Ulcijn 2-4 
 5. Svjetlost 0-6 
Group B
 1. Feni Indistrija 5-1 
 2. Mornar Bar 4-2 
 3. Rilski Sportist 2-3 
 4. Mures 1-3 
 5. Balkan 1-4 


Round 7: Zrinjski HT loses to Ulcijn - by Eurobasket News
The game between third ranked Bosnian Zrinjski HT (3-2) and fourth ranked Montenegrin Ulcijn (2-4) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. Zrinjski HT was defeated by Ulcijn in a tough game in Ulcijn 82-89. The game without a history. Ulcijn led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Zrinjski HT's 38 and made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Zrinjski HT helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Radoje Djurkovic (198-C/F-87) who helped to win the game recording 13 points and 9 rebounds. Center Aleksandar Radulovic (209-84) contributed with 17 points and 4 blocks (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winners. Ulcijn's coach Vladimir Tausan used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. answered with 24 points and 9 rebounds for Zrinjski HT. Ulcijn maintains fourth place in Group A with 2-4 record. Zrinjski HT at the other side keeps the third position with two games lost. Ulcijn will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Zrinjski HT will play at home against Svjetlost in Slavonski Brod and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Montenegrin Mornar Bar (4-2) which played road game in Botevgrad against 4th placed Bulgarian Balkan (1-4). Second ranked Mornar Bar managed to get a 8-point victory 78-70. It was a great evening for forward Nikola Ljujic (202-91) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 6 rebounds. Nikola Ivanovic helped adding 17 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals. At the losing side forward Lubomir Lilov (198-87) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Mornar Bar maintains second place in Group B with 4-2 record behind leader Levski. Balkan lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom position with four games lost. Mornar Bar will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Balkan will play on the road against Rilski Sportist (#3) in Samokov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for FYR Macedonian Feni Indistrija (5-1) which hosted in Kavadarci 3rd placed Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (2-3). First ranked Feni Indistrija had an easy win 90-66. It was an exceptional evening for Vojdan Stojanovski who led the winners and scored 24 points and 8 rebounds. Ivan Lilov came up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds for Rilski Sportist in the defeat. Rilski Sportist's coach Aleksandar Todorov gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Feni Indistrija has a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending FYR Macedonian champion maintains first place in Group B with 5-1 record. Loser Rilski Sportist keeps the third position with three games lost. Feni Indistrija will meet Mures (#4) on the road in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against Balkan in Botevgrad and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Second ranked Bulgarian Levski blasted bottom-ranked Croatian Svjetlost (0-6) in Slavonski Brod 107-74. Svjetlost is still unable to win any game. Aaron Harper fired 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Levski has a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of Group A leader. Svjetlost at the other side still closes the standings with six games lost. Levski's next round opponent will be league's second-placed OKK Beograd at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Svjetlost will play against Zrinjski HT in Mostar and hopes to get finally their first victory.


Group A
Svjetlost - Levski 74-107

Second ranked Bulgarian Levski blasted bottom-ranked Croatian Svjetlost (0-6) in Slavonski Brod 107-74. Svjetlost is still unable to win any game. The game was mostly controlled by Levski. Svjetlost managed to win third quarter 27-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Levski dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Svjetlost's 38. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. American swingman Aaron Harper (199-81, college: Mississippi, agency: Strategic Sports) fired 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. His fellow American import center Donald Cole (204-81, college: Sam Houston St., agency: Edge Sports) chipped in 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Forward Igor Maric (196-85) produced 20 points and 8 rebounds and guard Luka Petkovic (190-88) added 14 points and 8 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Levski has a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of Group A leader. Svjetlost at the other side still closes the standings with six games lost. Levski's next round opponent will be league's second-placed OKK Beograd at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Svjetlost will play against Zrinjski HT in Mostar and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Svjetlost: I.Maric 20+8reb+1ast, L.Petkovic 14+4reb+8ast, P.Zivkovic 12+6reb, M.Karlovic 12+6reb+3ast, F.Vukicevic 8+9reb+1ast, L.Panduric 4+1reb
Levski: A.Harper 25+5reb+5ast, D.Cole 15+5reb+5ast, S.Slaveikov 12+3reb+1ast, A.Velikov 11+3reb+4ast, P.Lauderdale 9+4reb+1ast, G.Cekovski 9+2reb+1ast
gschID: 102622


Ulcijn - Zrinjski HT 89-82

The game between third ranked Bosnian Zrinjski HT (3-2) and fourth ranked Montenegrin Ulcijn (2-4) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. Zrinjski HT was defeated by Ulcijn in a tough game in Ulcijn 82-89. The game without a history. Ulcijn led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Zrinjski HT's 38 and made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Zrinjski HT helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Radoje Djurkovic (198-87) who helped to win the game recording 13 points and 9 rebounds. Center Aleksandar1 Radulovic (209-84) contributed with 17 points and 4 blocks (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winners. Ulcijn's coach Vladimir Tausan used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. answered with 24 points and 9 rebounds and Croatian forward Zeljko Sakic (203-88) added 18 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Zrinjski HT. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ulcijn maintains fourth place in Group A with 2-4 record. Zrinjski HT at the other side keeps the third position with two games lost. Ulcijn will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Zrinjski HT will play at home against Svjetlost in Slavonski Brod and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Zrinjski HT: M.Perajica 24+9reb, Z.Sakic 18+9reb+3ast, A.Hasandic 15+2reb+1ast, S.Demic 11+1reb+2ast, L.Simonovic 10+2reb+5ast, A.Kahrimanovic 4+9reb+2ast
Ulcijn: A.Radulovic 17+4reb+2ast, D.Sibalic 16+1reb, R.Djurkovic 13+9reb+2ast, S.Tepavcevic 11+3reb+1ast, M.Djurisic 10+2reb+1ast, D.Milosevic 8+2reb+1ast
gschID: 112002


Group B
Balkan - Mornar Bar 70-78

An interesting game for Montenegrin Mornar Bar (4-2) which played road game in Botevgrad against 4th placed Bulgarian Balkan (1-4). Second ranked Mornar Bar managed to get a 8-point victory 78-70. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 30-13. But Balkan won second period 17-9. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Mornar Bar won last quarter 22-16. They also forced 28 Balkan turnovers. It was a great evening for forward Nikola Ljujic (202-91) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 6 rebounds. Guard Nikola Ivanovic (187-94, agency: Beo Basket) helped adding 17 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals. At the losing side forward Lubomir Lilov (198-87) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds and power forward Georgi Davidov (205-76) scored 11 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Mornar Bar maintains second place in Group B with 4-2 record behind leader Levski. Balkan lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom position with four games lost. Mornar Bar will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Balkan will play on the road against Rilski Sportist (#3) in Samokov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Balkan: L.Lilov 21+6reb+3ast, D.Morton 13+3reb+2ast, G.Davidov 11+8reb+5ast, D.Filipov 10+3reb+4ast, S.Marinov 6+3reb+5ast, K.Raykov 5+2reb+2ast
Mornar Bar: N.Ljujic 23+6reb+1ast, M.Sarajlija 18+3reb, N.Ivanovic 17+6reb+5ast, B.Ljubojevic 14+6reb+1ast, M.Damjanovic 4+1reb, N.Radovic 2+9reb
gschID: 102623


Feni Indistrija - Rilski Sportist 90-66

An interesting game for FYR Macedonian Feni Indistrija (5-1) which hosted in Kavadarci 3rd placed Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (2-3). First ranked Feni Indistrija had an easy win 90-66. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 52-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Feni Indistrija dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Rilski Sportist's 32. Feni Indistrija forced 22 Rilski Sportist turnovers. It was an exceptional evening for guard Vojdan Stojanovski (194-87) who led the winners and scored 24 points and 8 rebounds. American guard Jarrid Frye (194-85, college: Sacred Heart) accounted for 19 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Five Feni Indistrija players scored in double figures. Swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) came up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and Serbian forward Vladimir Mijovic (207-84, agency: Alti Sport) added 10 points and 14 rebounds respectively for Rilski Sportist in the defeat. Rilski Sportist's coach Aleksandar Todorov gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Feni Indistrija has a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending FYR Macedonian champion maintains first place in Group B with 5-1 record. Loser Rilski Sportist keeps the third position with three games lost. Feni Indistrija will meet Mures (#4) on the road in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against Balkan in Botevgrad and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Rilski Sportist: I.Lilov 21+10reb+2ast, A.Gruev 11+1reb+3ast, V.Mijovic 10+14reb+2ast, B.Boev 7+3ast, S.Vaklinov 7+6reb, M.Marinov 3+1ast
Feni Indistrija: V.Stojanovski 24+8reb+2ast, J.Frye 19+5reb+2ast, S.Mihajloski 14+7reb, D.Tasovski 11+7reb, G.Samardziev 10+1reb+9ast, V.Brckov 4+1reb
gschID: 102624




*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Oritseweyinmi Efejuku strengthens Ventspils - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils landed Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence). The 24-year-old guard is coming back to Latvia. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku played for Barons Riga last season. He tallied 18.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.6 steals per game in LBL. This season the guard started in Czech Republic. He notched 9.5 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists per Euroleague game for Nymburk. In Adriatic League his stats read 3.4 points and 1.2 boards per appearance. In November Oritseweyinmi Efejuku signed a deal with Ferro-ZNTU in Ukraine. The guard appeared in 12 games tallying 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.3 assists. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku is the Jamaican National Team player. He helped Jamaica conquer CBC Championship crown in 2009. Efejuku notched 20.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game at the tournament.


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


Belgian D1 round 14 best performance: Matt Lojeski - by Eurobasket News
American guard Matt Lojeski (198-G-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Oostende, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
The 25-year old player was the main contributor (31 points, eight rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Antwerp (#4, 7-6) with 29-point margin 78-49. Oostende maintains the 5th position in Belgian D1. Oostende 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 6-7 record. In the team's last game Lojeski had a remarkable 77.8% from 2-point range and got four three-pointers out of 6 attempts. It's his second year at Oostende and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Former University of Hawaii star has very solid stats this year. Lojeski is in league's top in points (2nd best: 17.5ppg) and averages impressive 62.4% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old Croatian Andrija Stipanovic (208-C-86) of Liege. Stipanovic had a very good evening with a double-double of 26 points and 10 rebounds. Of course he lead Liege to another comfortable win 84-67 over the lower-ranked Gent (#9, 2-9) being unquestionably team leader. Liege's 6th position in has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 5-7 record. Stipanovic is well-known at Liege and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.3ppg (#9). He also registered 7.2 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Stefon Jackson (196-G-85) of VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#8). Jackson scored 26 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of VOO Verviers-Pepinster, leading his team to a 88-83 win against the higher-ranked M.Hainaut (#2, 8-4). VOO Verviers-Pepinster can only dream about fighting for top spots in . They have rather bad season and 3-8 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Jackson he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Jackson has individually a great season in Belgium. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.7rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Michael Jenkins (191-G-86) of Liege - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Ron Lewis (193-G-84) of M.Hainaut - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Ron Lewis (193-G-84) of M.Hainaut - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Christopher Hill (191-G-83) of Charleroi - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Joseph Gomis (180-G-78) of Charleroi - 19 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Darrel Mitchell (180-G-84) of Oostende - 12 points and 8 assists
10. Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86) of M.Hainaut - 10 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

D1 Round 14: Antwerp Giants are defeated by Base Oostende - by Eurobasket News
The most important game in the last round took place in Oostende between third ranked Antwerp Giants (7-6) and fifth ranked Base Oostende (6-7) on Saturday night. Antwerp Giants were crushed by Base Oostende on the road 78-49. Base Oostende forced 19 Antwerp Giants turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Antwerp Giants helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Matt Lojeski (198-85, college: Hawaii) scored 31 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Darrel Mitchell (180-84, college: LSU, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 12 points and 8 assists during the contest. Base Oostende's coach Jean-Marc Jaumin felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Trent Strickland (196-84, college: Wake Forest) responded with 14 points and 5 rebounds. Base Oostende maintains fifth position with 6-7 record. Antwerp Giants at the other side dropped to the fourth place with six games lost. Base Oostende are looking forward to face VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#8) at home in the next round. Antwerp Giants will have a break next round.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Dexia Mons-Hainaut (8-4) against ninth ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (3-8) on Saturday night. Visiting Dexia Mons-Hainaut was defeated by ninth ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (3-8) in a tough game in Verviers 83-88. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. Guard Stefon Jackson (196-85, college: UTEP) notched a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds to lead the effort and Dominic Waters supported him with 16 points and 6 assists. Even 16 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists by guard Ron Lewis (193-84, college: Ohio St.) did not help to save the game for Dexia Mons-Hainaut. VOO Verviers-Pepinster moved-up to eighth place. Dexia Mons-Hainaut at the other side keeps the second position with four games lost. VOO Verviers-Pepinster will play against higher ranked Base Oostende (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Dexia Mons-Hainaut will play against Optima Gent and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Dexia Mons-Hainaut (8-4) against fourth ranked Spirou Charleroi (7-1) on Tuesday night. Visiting Dexia Mons-Hainaut was defeated by fourth ranked Spirou Charleroi (7-1) in Charleroi 79-67. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was Demond Mallet who scored 24 points. Ron Lewis produced 24 points and 6 rebounds for the guests. Spirou Charleroi has a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to third place. Loser Dexia Mons-Hainaut keeps the second position with four games lost. Spirou Charleroi will meet Belgacom Liege (#6) on the road in the next round. Dexia Mons-Hainaut will play against Optima Gent (#9) and hope to secure a win.
The game in Gent was quite interesting. Sixth ranked Belgacom Liege (5-7) played at the court of 8th ranked Optima Gent (2-9). Belgacom Liege did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 84-67. Andrija Stipanovic orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds. Belgacom Liege's coach Dario Gjergja used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Belgacom Liege has a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain sixth position with 5-7 record. Optima Gent lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom place with nine games lost. Belgacom Liege's next round opponent will be higher ranked Spirou Charleroi (#3) at home and it may be quite challenging game. Optima Gent will play against the league's second-placed Dexia Mons-Hainaut (#2) in Quaregnon.



Oostende - Antwerp 78-49

The most important game in the last round took place in Oostende between third ranked Antwerp Giants (7-6) and fifth ranked Base Oostende (6-7) on Saturday night. Antwerp Giants were crushed by Base Oostende on the road 78-49. Base Oostende forced 19 Antwerp Giants turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Antwerp Giants helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Matt Lojeski (198-85, college: Hawaii) scored 31 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Darrel Mitchell (180-84, college: LSU, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 12 points and 8 assists during the contest. Base Oostende's coach Jean-Marc Jaumin felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Trent Strickland (196-84, college: Wake Forest) responded with 14 points and 5 rebounds and forward Darnell Wilson (198-85, college: Canisius, agency: Court Side) scored 9 points and 7 rebounds. Base Oostende maintains fifth position with 6-7 record. Antwerp Giants at the other side dropped to the fourth place with six games lost. Base Oostende are looking forward to face VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#8) at home in the next round. Antwerp Giants will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Antwerp: T.Strickland 14+5reb, D.Wilson 9+7reb, S.Mejri 8+7reb, R.Moors 8+4reb+1ast, J.Mwema 4+6reb, M.Rademakers 3+4reb
Oostende: M.Lojeski 31+8reb+1ast, D.Mitchell 12+1reb+8ast, S.Pelle 7+6reb, Q.Serron 6+2reb, B.Ebong 6+7reb, D.Katnic 6+1reb
gschID: 98616


Verviers-Pep. - M.Hainaut 88-83

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Dexia Mons-Hainaut (8-4) against ninth ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (3-8) on Saturday night. Visiting Dexia Mons-Hainaut was defeated by ninth ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster (3-8) in a tough game in Verviers 83-88. Dexia Mons-Hainaut was ahead by 5 points after three quarters before a 24-24 charge of VOO Verviers-Pepinster, which allowed them to win the game. They made 20-of-23 charity shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. Guard Stefon Jackson (196-85, college: UTEP) notched a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds to lead the effort and guard Dominic Waters (185-86, college: Portland St.) supported him with 16 points and 6 assists. Even 16 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists by guard Ron Lewis (193-84, college: Ohio St.) did not help to save the game for Dexia Mons-Hainaut. Power forward Ben McCauley (206-86, college: N.Carolina St.) added 18 points for the guests. Five VOO Verviers-Pepinster and four Dexia Mons-Hainaut players scored in double figures. VOO Verviers-Pepinster moved-up to eighth place. Dexia Mons-Hainaut at the other side keeps the second position with four games lost. VOO Verviers-Pepinster will play against higher ranked Base Oostende (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Dexia Mons-Hainaut will play against Optima Gent and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
M.Hainaut: B.McCauley 18+3reb+2ast, S.Foster 17+2reb, R.Lewis 16+7reb+6ast, M.Hatten 14+5reb+3ast, R.Taylor 6+3reb+3ast, A.Nivins 6+2reb
Verviers-Pep.: S.Jackson 26+12reb+2ast, R.Freeman 17+5reb, D.Waters 16+3reb+6ast, A.Agudio 12+1reb+4ast, B.Gay 10+4reb, D.Jorssen 4+3reb
gschID: 112089


Gent - Liege 67-84

The game in Gent was quite interesting. Sixth ranked Belgacom Liege (5-7) played at the court of 8th ranked Optima Gent (2-9). Belgacom Liege did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 84-67. The game without a history. Belgacom Liege led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Belgacom Liege had a 24-13 advantage in offensive rebounds. Croatian center Andrija Stipanovic (208-86) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds. American guard Michael Jenkins (191-86, college: Winthrop) contributed with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Belgacom Liege's coach Dario Gjergja used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American power forward Monwell Randle (203-83, college: SE Missouri St., agency: Court Side) replied with 13 points and 8 rebounds and guard Senne Geukens (190-83) added 11 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Optima Gent. Four Optima Gent players scored in double figures. Belgacom Liege has a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain sixth position with 5-7 record. Optima Gent lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom place with nine games lost. Belgacom Liege's next round opponent will be higher ranked Spirou Charleroi (#3) at home and it may be quite challenging game. Optima Gent will play against the league's second-placed Dexia Mons-Hainaut (#2) in Quaregnon.
Top scorers:
Gent: A.Hall 14+2reb, M.Randle 13+8reb, S.Geukens 11+5reb+1ast, D.Emerson 10+3reb, M.Rose 9+1ast, O.Foucart 4+2ast
Liege: A.Stipanovic 26+10reb, M.Jenkins 22+6reb+4ast, L.Matela 12+5reb+3ast, G.Muya 6+3ast, T.Griffin 4+3reb, X.Collette 4+2reb
gschID: 98614


Round 8
Charleroi - M.Hainaut 79-67

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Dexia Mons-Hainaut (8-4) against fourth ranked Spirou Charleroi (7-1) on Tuesday night. Visiting Dexia Mons-Hainaut was defeated by fourth ranked Spirou Charleroi (7-1) in Charleroi 79-67. The hosts trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 12 points. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was guard Demond Mallet (185-78, college: McNeese St., agency: Higher Vision Sports) who scored 24 points. Guard Christopher Hill (191-83, college: Michigan St.) chipped in 16 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Ron Lewis (193-84, college: Ohio St.) produced 24 points and 6 rebounds and power forward Ben McCauley (206-86, college: N.Carolina St.) added 10 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the guests. Spirou Charleroi has a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to third place. Loser Dexia Mons-Hainaut keeps the second position with four games lost. Spirou Charleroi will meet Belgacom Liege (#6) on the road in the next round. Dexia Mons-Hainaut will play against Optima Gent (#9) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
M.Hainaut: R.Lewis 24+6reb+3ast, S.Foster 15+1reb+2ast, B.McCauley 10+10reb+2ast, R.Taylor 6+2reb+1ast, M.Hatten 5+2ast, P.Van Paassen 3+1reb+1ast
Charleroi: D.Mallet 24+3reb+1ast, J.Gomis 19+2reb+2ast, C.Hill 16+8reb+2ast, C.Beghin 6+4reb+2ast, A.Riddick 5+10reb, D.Broyles 4+4reb+3ast
gschID: 116351




Standings - Division I
D1 Standings
 1. Aalstar 9-2 
 2. M.Hainaut 8-4 
 3. Charleroi 7-1 
 4. Antwerp 7-6 
 5. Oostende 6-7 
 6. Liege 5-7 
 7. Leuven 4-7 
 8. Verviers-Pep. 3-8 
 9. Gent 2-9 


Stats Leaders - Division I
Points Per Game
 Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Copeland, Aalstar17.7 
 2. Lojeski, Oostende17.5 
 3. Waters, Verviers.16.9 
 4. Mallet, Charleroi15.9 
 5. Lewis, M.Hainaut15.4 
 6. Gomis, Charleroi15.3 
 7. Miller, Leuven15.3 
 8. Taylor, M.Hainaut15.3 
 9. Stipanovic, Liege15.3 
 10. Dagunduro, Leuven14.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Monwell RANDLE
  Gent
  (203-F/C-83)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Randle, Gent8.5 
 2. Hilliard, Aalstar8.1 
 3. Stipanovic, Liege7.2 
 4. Freeman, Verviers.7.1 
 5. Tofi, Leuven7.0 
 6. Jackson, Verviers.6.7 
 7. Young, Aalstar6.5 
 8. Gay, Verviers-Pep.6.5 
 9. Hill, Charleroi6.4 
 10. Riddick, Charleroi6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Darrel MITCHELL
  Oostende
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Mitchell, Oostende5.3 
 2. Hatten, M.Hainaut4.1 
 3. Waters, Verviers.3.9 
 4. Miller, Leuven3.6 
 5. Mallet, Charleroi3.4 
 6. Hopkins, Antwerp3.3 
 7. Hill, Charleroi3.1 
 8. Lewis, M.Hainaut3.0 
 9. Dagunduro, Leuven2.9 
 10. Steinbach, Aalstar2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus HATTEN
  M.Hainaut
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Hatten, M.Hainaut2.7 
 2. Jenkins, Liege2.5 
 3. Mitchell, Oostende2.5 
 4. Hopkins, Antwerp2.2 
 5. Dagunduro, Leuven2.0 
 6. Black, Antwerp2.0 
 7. Wilson, Antwerp2.0 
 8. Hill, Charleroi1.9 
 9. Mallet, Charleroi1.8 
 10. Greene, Charleroi1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Mejri, Antwerp1.8 
 2. Riddick, Charleroi1.7 
 3. Johnson, Aalstar1.4 
 4. Young, Aalstar0.8 
 5. Santiago, Charleroi0.8 
 6. Randle, Gent0.8 
 7. Tofi, Leuven0.6 
 8. Freeman, Verviers.0.5 
 9. Ebong, Oostende0.4 
 10. Jorssen, Verviers.0.4 


*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Bosnian Junior NT draft - by Nedzad Kladusak
KSBIH (BIH basketball federation) has got no overview of young bosnian prospects playing throughout in Europe or overseas.
BIH has always had young talented boys and girls all around the world.

If you are younger than 21 years and interested in playing for one of Bosnian Junior NT teams please send me your profiles!
We need your full name, birth data, the teams you played for (name, country and league), honours and if available stats and contact data like your e-mail address (it will not be published!!).
You will find my email adress by clicking on my name.
I can t promise you that you will get invited but all interesting candidates will get a profile on the Bosnian section of Eurobasket!

It s your turn!



*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


Pinheiros/Sky stay alive in Paulista League Final - by Eurobasket News
Winner/Limeira - Pinheiros/Sky 84:92

Pinheiros/Sky injected life into their Paulista League championship series campaign. They celebrated the victory in Game 3 of the Final to narrow the deficit 1-2. Olivinha Rodriguez (202-F-83) scored 19 points, grabbed 6 boards and issued 4 assists to lead the visitors.
Winner/Limeira got to a slightly better start. They led by two points 24:22 after ten minutes. But with their backs against the wall Pinheiros/Sky finally showed their class. They limited Winner/Limeira to just 14 points in the second quarter and posted a 41:38 halftime advantage. Winner/Limeira unloaded 30 points in the third term to take the lead back. But Pinheiros/Sky went on a desperate rally in the final quarter and eventually snatched a vital win at the end. Juan Pablo Figueroa (184-G-86, agency: Interperformances) and Shamell Stallworth (196-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: USF) had 18 points each for the visitors. Diego Pinheiro (195-F/G-80) answered with 22 points for Winner/Limeira. Jhonatan Luz dos Santos (196-F/G-87) had 20 points in defeat.

Winner/Limeira: Diego Pinheiro 22, Jhonatan Luz dos Santos 20
Pinheiros/Sky: Olivinha Rodriguez 19, Juan Pablo Figueroa 18, Shamell Stallworth 18


NBB Round 11: BRB/Brasilia loses #1 position - by Eurobasket News
Round 11 in NBB means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Uberlandia where host Unitri/Universo (7-2) beat league's leader BRB/Brasilia (7-3) 94-84 on Tuesday evening. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Unitri/Universo has a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader. Defending champion BRB/Brasilia dropped to the second place with three games lost. They share the position with Araldite/Univille. BRB/Brasilia will play next round against Pitagoras/Minas trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Unitri/Universo will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro.
Bottom-ranked Assis Basket (0-10) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 78-74 loss to eighth ranked Itabom/Bauru (5-4) in Assis. Itabom/Bauru maintains eighth place with 5-4 record. Assis Basket at the other side still closes the standings with ten games lost. Itabom/Bauru's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Sao Paulo to the arena Vivo/Franca.
A very interesting game took place in Vila Velha. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 12th ranked Vitoria (3-8) to fourteenth ranked Vila Velha CETAF (2-9) 85-83 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Vitoria. Vila Velha CETAF maintains fourteenth place with 2-9 record. Newly promoted Vitoria keeps the twelfth position with eight games lost. Vila Velha CETAF will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Vitoria will play against the league's second-placed Araldite/Univille (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Sao Paulo. Local Vivo/Franca (5-2) outscored 13th ranked Araraquara (2-7) 98-79. Vivo/Franca moved-up to sixth place. Araraquara at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with seven games lost. Vivo/Franca's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Sao Paulo Itabom/Bauru.


Assis Basket - Itabom/Bauru 74-78

Bottom-ranked Assis Basket (0-10) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 78-74 loss to eighth ranked Itabom/Bauru (5-4) in Assis. Itabom/Bauru maintains eighth place with 5-4 record. Assis Basket at the other side still closes the standings with ten games lost. Itabom/Bauru's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Sao Paulo to the arena Vivo/Franca.
gschID: 102705


Vila Velha CETAF - Vitoria 85-83

A very interesting game took place in Vila Velha. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 12th ranked Vitoria (3-8) to fourteenth ranked Vila Velha CETAF (2-9) 85-83 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Vitoria. Vila Velha CETAF maintains fourteenth place with 2-9 record. Newly promoted Vitoria keeps the twelfth position with eight games lost. Vila Velha CETAF will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Vitoria will play against the league's second-placed Araldite/Univille (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
gschID: 102706


Vivo/Franca - Araraquara 98-79

The game with biggest result difference took place in Sao Paulo. Local Vivo/Franca (5-2) outscored 13th ranked Araraquara (2-7) 98-79. Vivo/Franca moved-up to sixth place. Araraquara at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with seven games lost. Vivo/Franca's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Sao Paulo Itabom/Bauru.
gschID: 102707


Unitri/Universo - BRB/Brasilia 94-84

Round 11 in NBB means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Uberlandia where host Unitri/Universo (7-2) beat league's leader BRB/Brasilia (7-3) 94-84 on Tuesday evening. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Unitri/Universo has a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader. Defending champion BRB/Brasilia dropped to the second place with three games lost. They share the position with Araldite/Univille. They were replaced at the leadership position by Unitri/Universo. BRB/Brasilia will play next round against Pitagoras/Minas trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Unitri/Universo will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro.
gschID: 102709




Flamengo off to winning start in Liga Americas - by Eurobasket News
Flamengo - Quimsa 78:72

Flamengo registered the first win at the Liga Americas latest edition. The Brazilian powerhouse knocked down Quimsa in Group C opener. David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue) notched 20 points to lead the effort. Flamengo will take on Mavort, while Quimsa will face Espanol de Talca in the next round.
Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) scored 7 points in the first frame as Flamengo took control. They posted a 23:22 lead after ten minutes. Quimsa however did not allow Flamengo to stretch the margin in the second quarter. Moreover the Argentinean side leveled things up at 36 at halftime. Roman Gonzalez put Quimsa in charge in the third stanza. But not for too long as David Teague and Guilherme Teichmann (204-F/C-83, college: Tulsa) returned Flamengo on top 55:54 with one quarter remaining. Quimsa pulled in front once again but it was David Teague and Fred Santos who notched a pair of three-pointers and Flamengo retuned the lead for good in this one. Marcelinho Machado knocked down 17 points for Flamengo. Guilherme Teichmann added 14 points and 11 rebounds in the victory. Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78) replied with 23 points for Quimsa. Julio Mazzaro (190-G-79) finished with 20 points in the defeat.

Flamengo: David Teague 20, Marcelinho Machado 17, Guilherme Teichmann 14+11 boards
Quimsa: Diego Lo Grippo 23, Julio Mazzaro 20


Standings - BNL
NBB Standings
 1. Unitri/Universo 7-2 
 2. Araldite/Univille 7-3 
 3. BRB/Brasilia 7-3 
 4. Flamengo 6-1 
 5. Pinheiros/Sky 6-2 
 6. Vivo/Franca 5-2 
 7. Pitagoras/Minas 5-3 
 8. Itabom/Bauru 5-4 
 9. S.Jose/Vinac 4-4 
 10. Paulistano 4-5 
 11. Winner/Limeira 3-3 
 12. Vitoria 3-8 
 13. Araraquara 2-7 
 14. Vila Velha CETAF 2-9 
 15. Assis Basket 0-10 


*****************************************************
  BRUNEI   


BARRACUDAS IN THE RECORD BOOKS? - by Ozell Wells
Baraccudas land in records

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Brunei outfit to play final game against KL on Jan 15

THE Brunei Barracudas got themselves into the Asean Basketball League (ABL) record books on Sunday for all the wrong reasons.

The Brunei outfit found themselves on the receiving end of another beating against the Singapore Slingers as they went down as the team that allowed the most points scored by an opponent, as well as the team with the largest losing margin.

The Slingers needed a win and it was clear they knew what they had to do never taking their foot off the pedal, humiliating the Barracudas with a 102-61 scoreline, enroute to becoming the first team to break the century mark in the two-year-old league.

The triumph also means that the Barracudas have yet to defeat the Slingers in six meetings since the inaugural season.

The Slingers were relentless on defence and held Brunei's first professional team to without a single field goal in the first quarter.

The game seemed over when the scoreboard read 27-2 at the end of the first stanza with the Barracudas' two points coming via Christopher Garnett (211-C-80, college: Indiana SE) from the charity stripe.

It seemed like there was no way back for the Barracudas with the Slingers leading comfortably at 52-20 at halftime.

The Barracudas were held to a dismal 33 per cent from the field connecting on only 26 of their 80 attempts. They only made one out of their 12 attempts from behind the arc as well.

The Slingers had their full roster of 12 players get on the scoresheet in the match with Filipino Avenido Leonidez (186-G) leading the way with 23 points.

'We came out like a hungry lion and we meant business. We just played hard defence,' said Avenido, during an interview with The Brunei Times, yesterday.

'All of us on the team were happy when (Tan Chin) Hong made a steal to make it 100 points to put us in the history books of the ABL,' he added.

However, the job is far from done for the Slingers as they are yet to secure themselves a spot in the playoffs racing against Satria Muda BritAma.

The Slingers, who hold a one-game lead with a 7-7 win loss record, face a daunting task against the league leaders Thailand Slammers on Saturday at the Nimibutr Indoor Stadium in Bangkok.

On the other hand, Satria Muda, who are on 6-8, will host the Philippine Patriots at the BritAma arena in Jakarta on the same day.

Should Satria Muda win their game, the Slingers will be left with no choice but a must-win situation.

'We need to win our next game to ensure a place in the playoffs. I hope the team's spirit will be kept high and we will continue to do what we do,' said Avenido.

'We'll not rely on them (Satria Muda) and we need to finish off our own assignment,' he added.

Only the Barracudas have nothing left to play for in the final day of the 15-game season and they have confirmed their basement position in the league.

All the Barracudas can do now is seek redemption against the KL Dragons on Jan 15 at 8pm at the Indoor Stadium of the Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex in Berakas.

The Dragons thrashed the Barracudas 87-48 on Oct 30 last year in a game that never reach the final buzzer.

The Brunei Times

*****************************************************
  CHILE   


Espanol de Talca upset Mavort - by Eurobasket News
Mavort - Espanol de Talca 76:85

Espanol de Talca celebrated the first win at the Liga Americas Group C. They shocked hosting Mavort at the Coliseum Luis Leoro Franco in Ibarra. Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82) stepped up with 25 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Chilean powerhouse.
Espanol got to a strong start. The visitors unloaded 23 points in the opening ten minutes and recorded a 3-point lead. Blake Walker (196-G/F-82, college: Portland St.) came up for Mavort in the second stanza. He helped Mavort bounce back as they posted a 38:37 lead at the interval. Espanol shocked the home side at the start of the third term. The Chilean team went on a 10:0 run to surge ahead. They took over from that moments and rallied to the victory at the end. Peter Kvietek (203-C-77) delivered 15 points and 17 rebounds for Espanol de Talca. Blake Walker replied with game-high 31 points for Espanol de Talca.


*****************************************************
  CHINA   


CBA Round 14: No surprise as #1 Xinjiang Flying Tige defeats Zhejiang Guangsha Lions - by Eurobasket News
CBA top team - Xinjiang Flying Tige (13-0) had no problems winning another game on Wednesday. This time they crushed fifth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (8-5) in Hangzhou 92-69. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Zhejiang Guangsha Lions. The guests trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 23 points. Xinjiang Flying Tige made 21-of-25 free shots (84.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Zhejiang Guangsha Lions turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Zhejiang Guangsha Lions helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) scored 36 points (!!!), 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) chipped in 20 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Undefeated Xinjiang Flying Tige have an impressive 13-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 13-0 record. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions at the other side keep the fifth place with five games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige are looking forward to face Zhejiang Cyclones (#10) in Hangzhou in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play on the road against Qingdao Double Star (#12) and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
An interesting game took place in Foshan where 10th ranked Qingdao Double Star (5-8) was upset on the court of thirteenth ranked Foshan (4-9) 111-92. American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) notched 27 points and 9 assists (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and Wenbo Yang supported him with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Even 22 points and 9 rebounds by American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) did not help to save the game for Qingdao Double Star. Qingdao Double Star's coach rotated twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Foshan maintains thirteenth position with 4-9 record. Qingdao Double Star at the other side dropped to the twelfth place with eight games lost. Foshan will play against higher ranked Shandong Bulls (#9) in Jinan in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Qingdao Double Star will play at home against Zhejiang Guangsha Lions in Hangzhou and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game took place in Shanghai where higher ranked Bayi Fubang (7-6) was upset on the court of twelfth ranked Shanghai Sharks (6-8) 116-105 on Wednesday. The best player for the winners was Mike Harris who had a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 24 rebounds. Shanghai Sharks' coach Bob Jr. Donewald used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. ZhiZhi Wang produced a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds for the guests. Shanghai Sharks moved-up to eleventh place. Loser Bayi Fubang dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. Shanghai Sharks will meet at home higher ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#4) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Bayi Fubang will play against Shanxi Zhongyu (#15) in Taiyuan and hope to secure a win.
An interesting game took place in Hangzhou where higher ranked Beijing Ducks (8-6) were upseton the court of eleventh ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (6-7) 94-78. Josh Boone orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 17 rebounds. Beijing Ducks' coach tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Zhejiang Cyclones moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Shandong. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the sixth position with six games lost. Zhejiang Cyclones' next round opponent will be league's leader Xinjiang Flying Tige in Urumqi and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 14: Shandong lost to DongGuan on the opponent's court 101-110. Bottom-ranked TianJin R. unfortunately lost to Guandong in a home game 106-119. Jilin recorded a loss to Liaoning on the road 98-113. Shanxi Zh. defeated Fujian on its own court 126-115.


DongGuan - Shandong 110-101

Very expected game when 9th ranked Shandong Bulls (6-7) were defeated on the road by second ranked DongGuan Leopards (12-1) 110-101. The hosts were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. DongGuan Leopards dominated down low during the game scoring 76 of its points in the paint compared to Shandong Bulls' 54. DongGuan Leopards outrebounded Shandong Bulls 52-36 including 16 on the offensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Shandong Bulls helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!), 14 rebounds and 9 assists (on 16-of-20 shooting from the field). Nigerian guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) contributed with 29 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American forward Rodney White (206-80, college: Charlotte) replied with 26 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import guard Myron Allen (180-79, college: Lee JC) added 18 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Shandong Bulls. Four DongGuan Leopards and five Shandong Bulls players scored in double figures. DongGuan Leopards maintains second position with 12-1 record behind leader Xinjiang. Shandong Bulls at the other side keep the ninth place with seven games lost. DongGuan Leopards' next round opponent will be Guandong Tigers (#3) in Dongguan, which may be the game of the day. Shandong Bulls will play on the road against Foshan (#13).
Top scorers:
DongGuan: V.Jackson 36+14reb+9ast, A.Josh-Emmanuel 29+6reb+4ast, Z.Kai 18+14reb+2ast, G.QuAn 14+3reb, H.ZhongMian 4+3reb+2ast, C.Ya-Song 4+2reb+1ast
Shandong: W.Rodney 26+9reb+4ast, L.JingYu 22+1ast, A.Myron 18+7reb+5ast, W.Gang 14+2reb+3ast, L.Li 12+12reb+1ast, W.Ke 5+5reb
gschID: 118430


Foshan - Qingdao DS 111-92

An interesting game took place in Foshan where 10th ranked Qingdao Double Star (5-8) was upset on the court of thirteenth ranked Foshan (4-9) 111-92. The game without a history. Foshan led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 19-of-25 charity shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Foshan outrebounded Qingdao Double Star 48-32 including a 36-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) notched 27 points and 9 assists (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and swingman Wenbo Yang (196-90) supported him with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Even 22 points and 9 rebounds by American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) did not help to save the game for Qingdao Double Star. His fellow American import guard Dee Brown (185-84, college: Illinois) added 22 points for the guests. Five Foshan and four Qingdao Double Star players scored in double figures. Qingdao Double Star's coach rotated twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Foshan maintains thirteenth position with 4-9 record. Qingdao Double Star at the other side dropped to the twelfth place with eight games lost. Foshan will play against higher ranked Shandong Bulls (#9) in Jinan in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Qingdao Double Star will play at home against Zhejiang Guangsha Lions in Hangzhou and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Foshan: M.Stephon 27+4reb+9ast, Y.Wenbo 24+7reb+4ast, Z.Zhun 18+3reb, H.Ben 18+9reb, Z.Yong-gang 12+5reb+1ast, O.Olumide 10+16reb+2ast
Qingdao DS: G.Charles 22+9reb+1ast, B.Dee 22+3reb+3ast, L.Gen 16+4reb+3ast, C.Kai 14+7reb, L.Yan 5+2reb, A.Zaid 4+2reb
gschID: 118431


Zhejiang G.L. - Xinjiang 69-92

CBA top team - Xinjiang Flying Tige (13-0) had no problems winning another game on Wednesday. This time they crushed fifth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (8-5) in Hangzhou 92-69. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Zhejiang Guangsha Lions. The guests trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 23 points. Xinjiang Flying Tige made 21-of-25 free shots (84.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Zhejiang Guangsha Lions turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Zhejiang Guangsha Lions helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) scored 36 points (!!!), 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) chipped in 20 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds and the former international forward Bo Wang (202-82) scored 14 points and 8 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Xinjiang Flying Tige have an impressive 13-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 13-0 record. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions at the other side keep the fifth place with five games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige are looking forward to face Zhejiang Cyclones (#10) in Hangzhou in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play on the road against Qingdao Double Star (#12) and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Xinjiang: D.Quincy 36+8reb+6ast, C.Tal 23+3reb, S.James 20+10reb+1ast, Z.QingPeng 8, M.Bateer 2+10reb+4ast, M.Lati 2+1reb
Zhejiang G.L.: R.Peter John 21+13reb+3ast, W.Bo 14+8reb+1ast, K.Tre 9+1reb+2ast, L.Chih-Chieh 8+3reb+1ast, X.YuYang 7+4reb+2ast, Z.Wei 4+4reb
gschID: 118432


Shanghai - Bayi 116-105

An interesting game took place in Shanghai where higher ranked Bayi Fubang (7-6) was upset on the court of twelfth ranked Shanghai Sharks (6-8) 116-105 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 63-50 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Shanghai Sharks dominated down low during the game scoring 78 of its points in the paint compared to Bayi Fubang's 38 and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Shanghai Sharks outrebounded Bayi Fubang 56-38 including a 39-28 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who had a double-double by scoring 40 points (!!!) and 24 rebounds. International guard Wei LiuWei (190-80) chipped in a double-double by scoring 20 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists. Five Shanghai Sharks players scored in double figures. Shanghai Sharks' coach Bob Jr. Donewald used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-79) produced a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds and international swingman Bo Zhang (200-89) added 26 points and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Shanghai Sharks moved-up to eleventh place. Loser Bayi Fubang dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. Shanghai Sharks will meet at home higher ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#4) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Bayi Fubang will play against Shanxi Zhongyu (#15) in Taiyuan and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Shanghai: H.Mike 40+24reb, W.Yong-Liang 24+6reb+2ast, L.Wei 20+5reb+10ast, L.Ziqui 14+4reb+3ast, W.Yang 12+7reb+3ast, P.Fei 4+5reb
Bayi: W.ZhiZhi 36+10reb+1ast, Z.Bo 26+4reb+4ast, W.Lei 22+3reb+1ast, W.ZhongGuang 8+5reb+6ast, D.Lehei 7+3reb+1ast, L.Ke 6+5reb+2ast
gschID: 118427


TianJin R. - Guandong 106-119

Very predictable result in Tianjin where third ranked Guandong Tigers (10-3) defeated bottom-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (2-11) 119-106. The game was mostly controlled by Guandong Tigers. TianJin Rongcheng managed to win second period 33-31. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guandong Tigers made 36-of-43 charity shots (83.7 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 TianJin Rongcheng turnovers. 36 personal fouls committed by TianJin Rongcheng helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Center Zheng Wang (216-90) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds. American guard Fred Jones (193-79, college: Oregon) contributed with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American power forward Lee Benson (208-73, college: Brown Mackie, agency: Paris Global Sports) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 20 rebounds and 4 assists and Ivorian-French power forward Herve Lamizana (207-81, college: Rutgers) added 27 points, 6 rebounds and 8 blocks in the effort for TianJin Rongcheng. Five Guandong Tigers and four TianJin Rongcheng players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Guandong Tigers has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 10-3 record having just three points less than leader Xinjiang. TianJin Rongcheng lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 11 games lost. Guandong Tigers' next round opponent will be league's second-placed DongGuan Leopards on the road and it will be for sure the game of the week. TianJin Rongcheng will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#16) in Jinjiang and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guandong: W.ShiPeng 24+4reb+1ast, W.Zheng 19+12reb, J.Fred 19+7reb+4ast, H.Dong 12+6reb, Z.FangYu 12+3reb+1ast, C.Jianghua 12+2reb+1ast
TianJin R.: L.Herve 27+6reb+2ast, Z.Nan 21+2reb+2ast, X.GuiJun 19+1reb+1ast, B.Lee 12+20reb+4ast, L.GangFeng 8+2ast, Z.Ji 8+11reb
gschID: 118428


Liaoning - Jilin 113-98

Not a big story in a game in Yingkou where 14th ranked Jilin Tigers (3-10) were defeated by eighth ranked Liaoning Hunters (8-6) 113-98. It looked good early as Jilin Tigers took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Liaoning Hunters had a 32-22 second period charge getting the lead and Jilin Tigers were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 98-113. Liaoning Hunters made 19-of-21 charity shots (90.5 percent) during the game. They also forced 19 Jilin Tigers turnovers and outrebounded them 36-18 including a 22-10 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Liaoning Hunters especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists. The former international center Xiaoxu Li (207-90) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Ming Yang (193-85) contributed with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 assists for the winners. American swingman David Young (196-81, college: N.C.Central, agency: Impact Basketball) replied with 27 points (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) added 21 points in the effort for Jilin Tigers. Five Liaoning Hunters and four Jilin Tigers players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Beijing. Jilin Tigers lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the fourteenth position with ten games lost. Liaoning Hunters will have a break next round. Jilin Tigers will play on the road against Beijing Ducks (#6).
Top scorers:
Liaoning: B.Qiang 23+2reb+1ast, L.Xiaoxu 20+11reb+2ast, S.Donta 20+4reb+4ast, Y.Ming 19+2reb+10ast, H.Dejun 11+9reb+1ast, L.Shunan 11+1reb+2ast
Jilin: Y.David 27+3reb+1ast, W.Jameel 21+4reb+1ast, L.Tao 21+2reb+3ast, Y.Shulong 16+4reb+4ast, L.Yao 6+1reb, Z.Cheng 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 118429


Zhejiang C. - Beijing 94-78

An interesting game took place in Hangzhou where higher ranked Beijing Ducks (8-6) were upseton the court of eleventh ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (6-7) 94-78. The game was mostly controlled by Zhejiang Cyclones. Beijing Ducks managed to win second period 22-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Zhejiang Cyclones made 22-of-25 charity shots (88.0 percent) during the game. Zhejiang Cyclones outrebounded Beijing Ducks 47-35 including 37 on the defensive glass. 26 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 17 rebounds. The other American import forward Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: ZAG Advocates) contributed with 23 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 12-for-12 from the free throw line !!!) for the winners. Four Zhejiang Cyclones players scored in double figures. American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) replied with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds and guard LiBin Xie (190-88) added 20 points in the effort for Beijing Ducks. Beijing Ducks' coach tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Zhejiang Cyclones moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Shandong. Beijing Ducks at the other side keep the sixth position with six games lost. Zhejiang Cyclones' next round opponent will be league's leader Xinjiang Flying Tige in Urumqi and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Zhejiang C.: B.Josh 26+17reb+1ast, W.Marcus 23+5reb+1ast, W.DaYong 18+3reb+2ast, D.Jinhui 15+9reb+3ast, Z.Chunjun 6+2reb, Z.Dayu 4+5reb
Beijing: M.Randolph 22+14reb, X.LiBin 20+4reb+2ast, C.Shidong 9+1reb+4ast, J.Zhe 8+3reb, C.Lei 6+3reb+3ast, W.Xiaohui 5+3reb
gschID: 118425


Shanxi Zh. - Fujian 126-115

Everything could happen in Taiyuan at the game between two tied teams. Both fifteenth ranked Shanxi Zhongyu and 16th ranked Fujian SBS XunXin had identical 2-10 record. This time Shanxi Zhongyu used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Jinjiang 126-115. The game was mostly controlled by Shanxi Zhongyu. Fujian SBS XunXin managed to win fourth quarter 35-27. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Shanxi Zhongyu shot 62.7 percent from the field and made 20-of-24 charity shots (83.3 percent) during the game. Shanxi Zhongyu had a 26-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 54.5 percentage. 25 personal fouls committed by Fujian SBS XunXin helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Shawn Taggart (207-85, college: Memphis) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 13 rebounds. Forward XueWen Zhang (201-86) contributed with 32 points and 7 assists for the winners. American center Dwayne Jones (211-83, college: St.Joseph's) replied with a double-double by scoring 30 points, 18 rebounds and 4 blocks (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import swingman Andre Emmett (196-82, college: Texas Tech) added 44 points (!!!) in the effort for Fujian SBS XunXin. Five Shanxi Zhongyu and four Fujian SBS XunXin players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Shanxi Zhongyu (3-10) moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with Jilin. Fujian SBS XunXin at the other side keeps the sixteenth position with 11 games lost. Shanxi Zhongyu's next round opponent will be higher ranked Bayi Fubang (#8) in Ningbo and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Fujian SBS XunXin will play on the road against TianJin Rongcheng (#17) in Tianjin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Shanxi Zh.: Z.XueWen 32+4reb+7ast, T.Shawn 30+13reb+1ast, D.JiangPeng 21+1reb+2ast, R.Leon 13+6reb+3ast, H.Bing 12+7reb+2ast, Z.Biao 8+5reb+1ast
Fujian: E.Andre 44+4reb, J.Dwayne 30+18reb+1ast, L.Hang 11+6reb+1ast, Z.TaiLong 11, G.Lei 6+2reb, Y.Qin 4+1reb
gschID: 118426




Xinjiang, Dongguan, Guangdong Keep on Rolling - by Arthur Volbert
Xinjiang defeated the Zhejiang Lions 92-69 to remain undefeated at 13-0. Douby Quincy (191-G-84, college: Rutgers) had 36 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals and 2 blocks. Xirelijiang (Co Tal) scored 23. James Singleton had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Zhang Qingpeng scored 8. Mengke Bateer had only 2 points, but had 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Peter John Ramos had 21 points and 13 rebounds for Zhejiang. Wang Bo had 14 points and 8 rebounds. Tre Kelley scored 9.

Dongguan defeated Shandong 110-101 and is in second place in the CBA at 12-1. Jackson Vroman had 36 points, 14 rebounds and 9 assists. Josh Akognon had 29 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Zhang Kai had 18 points and 14 rebounds. Gu Quan, listed as born in 1992, had 14 points, 3 rebounds and 2 blocks, continuing his recent outstanding performances. Rodney White had 26 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for Shandong. Li Jingyu had 22 points and 5 steals. Myron Allen had 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Veteran guard Wang Gang scored 14 and Li Lin had 12 points and 12 rebounds.

Third place Guangdong defeated Tianjin 119-106. Wang Shipeng scored 24. 7-1 Wang Zheng, listed as born in 1990, scored 19 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in 31 minutes and is increasingly appearing to be China's best young center. Fred Jones had 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Dong Hanlin had 12 points and 6 rebounds. Chen Jianghua and Zhu Fangyu each scored 12 and Zhou Peng had 11. Herve Lamizana had 27 points, 6 rebounds and 8 blocks for Tianjin. Zhang Nan scored 21. Xu Guijun scored 19. Lee Benson had 12 points, 20 rebounds and 4 assists. Zhang Ji had 8 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks.

Zhejiang smashed Beijing 94-78. Josh Boone had 26 points and 17 rebounds. Marcus Williams had 23 points and 5 rebounds. Wang Dayong is beginning to look like one of the best young guards in the league. He had 18 points, 3 rebounds and 4 steals, playing all 48 minutes. Wang was developed in the guard factory at Liaoning and was once the most valuable player in China's university league. Ding Jinhui had 15 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Randolph Morris had 22 points and 14 rebounds for Beijing. Xie Libin had 20 points and 4 rebounds. Chen Shidong scored 9. Zaid Abbas, recovering from injury, had 4 points and 4 rebounds in 13 minutes. New import Joe Crawford has not yet joined the team.

Zhang Xuewen had 32 points and 7 assists as Shanxi Zhongyu beat Fujian 126-115. Shawn Taggart had 30 points and 13 rebounds. Young Duan Jiangpeng scored 21. Leon Rogers had 13 points and 6 rebounds. Hou Bing had 12 points and 7 rebounds. Zhang Biao had 8 points and 5 rebounds. Andre Emmett, last year's leading scorer in the CBA, amassed 44 points for Fujian. Dwayne Jones had 30 points, 18 rebounds and 4 blocks. Zhao Tailong and Li Hang each had 11.

Liaoning defeated Jilin 113-98. Bian Qiang scored 23. Donta Smith had 20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals. Li Xiaoxu had 20 points and 11 rebounds. Yang Ming had 19 points and 10 assists. 7-1 300 Han Dejun had 11 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks in 24 minutes. Liu Shunan scored 11. Chris Richard had 9 points and 6 rebounds in 24 minutes. David Young, soon to be replaced by Tim Pickett, had 27 points for Jilin. Jameel Watkins and Li Tao each scored 21. Yu Shulong had 16 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists.

Michael Harris (196-F-76) had 40 points and 24 rebounds as Shanghai defeated Bayi 116-105. Wang Yong, in his first good game this year, had 24 points and 6 rebounds. Liu Wei had 20 points and 10 assists. Liu Xiqui scored 14. Wu Yang had 12 points and 7 rebounds. John Lucas has not yet joined the team though Devin Green has departed. Wang Zhizhi had 36 points and 10 rebounds for Bayi. Zhang Bo had 26 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Wang Lei scored 22. Wang Zhongguang had 8 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists. Delehei scored 7.

Foshan defeated Qingdao 111-92. Stephon Marbury had 27 points and 9 assists. Yang Wenbo had 24 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. 7-1 Zheng Zhun scored 18. He Ben had 18 points and 9 rebounds. Zhao Yonggang scored 12. Olumide Oyedeji had 10 points, 16 rebounds and 4 blocks. Charles Gaines and Dee Brown each scored 22 for Qingdao. Gaines added 9 rebounds. Li Gen scored 16. Chen Kai had 14 points and 7 rebounds.


Standings - CBA
CBA Standings
 1. Xinjiang 13-0 
 2. DongGuan 12-1 
 3. Guandong 10-3 
 4. Jiangsu 9-4 
 5. Zhejiang G.L. 8-5 
 6. Beijing 8-6 
 7. Liaoning 8-6 
 8. Bayi 7-6 
 9. Shandong 6-7 
 10. Zhejiang C. 6-7 
 11. Shanghai 6-8 
 12. Qingdao DS 5-8 
 13. Foshan 4-9 
 14. Jilin 3-10 
 15. Shanxi Zh. 3-10 
 16. Fujian 2-11 
 17. TianJin R. 2-11 


Stats Leaders - CBA
Points Per Game
 Charles GAINES
  Qingdao DS
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 31.8
 1. Gaines, Qingdao DS31.8 
 2. Morris, Beijing29.1 
 3. Douby, Xinjiang28.9 
 4. Emmett, Fujian28.8 
 5. Lamizana, TianJ.28.2 
 6. James, Zhejiang C.27.9 
 7. Akognon, DongGuan26.8 
 8. Brown, Qingdao DS26.8 
 9. Kelley, Zhejiang.26.0 
 10. Crittenton, Zhejia.25.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwayne JONES
  Fujian
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 17.9
 1. Jones, Fujian17.9 
 2. Benson, TianJin R.15.2 
 3. Oyedeji, Foshan14.5 
 4. Gaines, Qingdao DS13.9 
 5. Ramos, Zhejiang.13.6 
 6. Watkins, Jilin13.5 
 7. Harris, Shanghai13.4 
 8. Moiso, Jiangsu12.7 
 9. Morris, Beijing12.5 
 10. Abbaas, Beijing12.3 
Assists Per Game
 Osama DAGHLAS
  Shanxi Zh.
  (199-G-79)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Daghlas, Shanxi Zh.8.7 
 2. Hu, Jiangsu6.3 
 3. Marbury, Foshan5.5 
 4. Vroman, DongGuan5.4 
 5. Lu, Fujian5.3 
 6. Douby, Xinjiang4.9 
 7. Green, Shanghai4.8 
 8. Jones, Guandong4.8 
 9. Allen, Shandong4.7 
 10. Crittenton, Zhejia.4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Javaris CRITTENTON
  Zhejiang G.L.
  (196-G-87)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Crittenton, Zhejia.3.6 
 2. Douby, Xinjiang3.6 
 3. Hu, Jiangsu3.4 
 4. Emmett, Fujian3.2 
 5. Vroman, DongGuan3.2 
 6. Daghlas, Shanxi Zh.2.9 
 7. Akognon, DongGuan2.8 
 8. Smith, Liaoning2.7 
 9. Zhong, Jilin2.6 
 10. James, Zhejiang C.2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Herve LAMIZANA
  TianJin R.
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Lamizana, TianJ.3.9 
 2. Jones, Fujian2.7 
 3. Vroman, DongGuan2.2 
 4. Watkins, Jilin2.1 
 5. Wang, Bayi1.8 
 6. Moiso, Jiangsu1.8 
 7. Morris, Beijing1.8 
 8. Zhang, Shanghai1.7 
 9. Boone, Zhejiang C.1.6 
 10. Benson, TianJin R.1.5 


*****************************************************
  CROATIA   


Cedevita officially signs Bracey Wright - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Cedevita officially signed a deal with American guard Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana). The team has learned that Marino Bazdaric will be out for at least one more month and they immediately decided to sign Wright. He inked a two-month contract with an option to extend it for the rest of the season.
Bracey Wright arrives to Cedevita from Paris-Levallois, where he started this season. He appeared 11 times in ProA averaging 9.2 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists. Last season, Wright played in Belgium. He joined Oostende in January and helped them to win the Belgian Cup. In the league he had 12.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.6 apg for 19 games. Wright also has experience from Aris, Joventut and Minnesota Timberwolves. In the past, he was a member of U18 and U21 USA National Team.

*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


Tuesday's games (4) review - by Eurobasket News
Idaho S. - Erie Bay H. 74-79
The surging Erie BayHawks scored the final seven points of the game to overtake the Idaho Stampede 79-74 Tuesday night in the NBA D-League Showcase at the South Padre Island Convention Center. With Erie trailing 74-72, forward Nate Linhart (6'7''-F-86, college: Akron) sank a 3-pointer with 2 minutes, 6 seconds remaining to give the BayHawks (14-6) a 75-74 lead. Point guard Blake Ahearn made four foul shots in the final 63 seconds to clinch their fifth straight win and eighth victory in the past nine games. The Stampede missed five 3-pointers and a layup and had a turnover in the final two minutes. Erie outscored Idaho (5-14) 21-11 in the fourth quarter. Ahearn led the BayHawks with 16 points and five assists. Linhart had all 12 of his points on four 3-pointers, and guard Garrett Temple (6'6''-G-86, college: LSU) had 13 points. Power forward Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, agency: Union Sports, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.), the club's leading scorer, had nine points, six steals and 13 rebounds. The Stampede led 46-45 at the half. Point guard Cedric Jackson (6'3''-G-86, college: Cleveland St.), traded to Idaho from Erie on Dec. 29, led the Stampede with 20 points and seven assists. Former NBA All-Star forward Antoine Walker, who was averaging 17.3 points per game and 6.5 rebounds, had a disastrous night for the Stampede. Walker scored seven points on 2-of-13 shooting from the floor, including 1-of-6 3-pointers, and committed 10 turnovers. Forward Carlos Wheeler had his sixth double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds. The BayHawks face Rio Grande Valley at the Showcase today at 8 p.m. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Utah F. - Springfield A. 89-95
Andre Ingram (6'3''-G-85, college: American) had a clear look from behind the arc with his team down three points with 15 seconds left on the clock. Utah couldn't really ask for more, having trailed most of the way to that point. Ingram, shooting a robust 47 percent from three-point range and slated to take part in tomorrow's Three-Point Shooting Contest, took aim and missed, allowing Springfield to squeeze out a 95-89 victory. Jameson Curry (6'4''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Oklahoma St.), L.D. Williams, Chas McFarland and Jerry Smith each scored 12 points for the Armor (6-14). Scottie Reynolds added eight points, four assists and a game-high four steals for Springfield. Ronald Dupree led Utah (9-9) with 19 points. Orien Greene had another strong all-around game for the Flash, finishing with 17 points on 8-for-11 shooting, to go with four assists and three steals. *Courtesy of D-League

Maine RC - New Mexico 98-97
Tiny Gallon (6'9''-F-91, college: Oklahoma) scored 19 points to lead five players in double-digits and played a pivotal role in the closing 90 seconds as the Maine Red Claws edged the New Mexico Thunderbirds 98-97 in the NBA Development League Showcase series at the South Padre Island Convention Center on Tuesday night. Gallon tied it at 97 on a free throw with 1:26 left, gave the Red Claws (10-11) their final lead with another free throw with 45.1 seconds left and stole the ball in his team's defensive end on the last play to prevent any chance at a winning shot by the Thunderbirds (11-10). After eight lead changes and three ties in the fourth quarter, New Mexico went up 96-91 on a 3-point play by Josh Bostic with 4:07 left. Maine's Jamar Smith (6'3''-G-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: S.Indiana) then hit a 3-pointer and Champ Oguchi made a jumper following a Jamine Peterson free throw for New Mexico to pull the Red Claws to within one, 97-96. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Austin T. - Dakota W. 119-97
Marcus Cousin (6'11''-C-86, college: Houston) scored 16 points and the Toros beat the Dakota Wizards Tuesday at South Padre Island Convention Centre, on the second day of the NBA D-League Showcase. Eric Dawson (6'9''-F-84, agency: Union Sports, college: Midwestern St.) had 16 points, and Lance Thomas had 12 points and nine rebounds for the Toros (8-11), who had eight players score in double figures. Anthony Goods led the Wizards (6-15) with 20 points and Chris Johnson added 17 points and 12 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.statesman.com



Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Iowa E. 16-6 
 2. Erie Bay H. 14-6 
 3. Ft.Wayne MA 12-8 
 4. Dakota W. 6-15 
 5. Sioux Falls S. 2-15 
Southwest Division
 1. Tulsa 66ers 15-6 
 2. Rio Grande 12-7 
 3. New Mexico 11-10 
 4. Maine RC 10-11 
 5. Texas L. 9-9 
 6. Austin T. 8-11 
West Division
 1. Reno Bighorns 11-8 
 2. Bakersfield J. 11-8 
 3. Utah F. 9-9 
 4. Springfield A. 6-14 
 5. Idaho S. 5-14 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 25.3
 1. Johnson, Bakersfi.25.3 
 2. Anderson, New M.21.1 
 3. Jeffers, Iowa E.20.6 
 4. Alexander, Texas L.20.1 
 5. Greene, Utah F.19.9 
 6. Edwards, New M.19.4 
 7. Dentmon, Texas L.18.8 
 8. Jones, Texas L.18.7 
 9. Sims, Maine RC18.1 
 10. Sims, Iowa E.17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Joe ALEXANDER
  Texas L.
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Alexander, Texas L.10.6 
 2. Patterson, Rio G.10.3 
 3. Sims, Iowa E.10.2 
 4. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.10.0 
 5. Williams, Texas L.9.9 
 6. Wheeler, Idaho S.9.6 
 7. Johnson, Dakota W.9.5 
 8. Jeffers, Iowa E.9.3 
 9. Pittman, Sioux F.8.9 
 10. Gallon, Maine RC8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Aaron MILES
  Reno Bighorns
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Miles, Reno Bighorns8.7 
 2. Stinson, Iowa E.8.4 
 3. Daniels, Texas L.7.9 
 4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.7.6 
 5. Jackson, Erie B.6.6 
 6. Johnson, Austin T.5.9 
 7. Wise, Bakersfield J.5.8 
 8. Cooper, Dakota W.5.3 
 9. Smith, Maine RC5.1 
 10. Jones, Texas L.5.0 
Steals Per Game
 Zabian DOWDELL
  Phoenix Suns
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers2.5 
 2. Miles, Reno Bighorns2.5 
 3. Blakely, Bakersfi.2.2 
 4. Wilmont, Ft.Wayne.2.1 
 5. Jackson, Erie B.2.1 
 6. Lofton, Iowa E.2.1 
 7. Hubbard, New M.2.1 
 8. Linhart, Erie B.2.1 
 9. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.2.0 
 10. Jeffers, Iowa E.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Chris JOHNSON
  Dakota W.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Johnson, Dakota W.3.1 
 2. Williams, Texas L.2.8 
 3. Alabi, Erie Bay H.2.7 
 4. Whiteside, Reno B.2.2 
 5. Sykes, Sioux F.2.1 
 6. Naymick, Bakersfi.1.9 
 7. Goodridge, Spring.1.8 
 8. Alexander, Texas L.1.7 
 9. Wallace, Bakersfi.1.7 
 10. VanderMeer, Iowa E.1.7 


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


DOMINICANS ABROAD: ESTRELLA DOES IT AGAIN! - by Ozell Wells
Willi Estrella (200-C-86) posted a double-double, the third of his career, with 18 points on a perfect 6 of 6 from the field and grabbed 10 rebounds.

Julian Sanders hit five 3-pointers including one with 19 seconds remaining in the game to preserve a 74-68 win over Kutztown in PSAC crossover action Sunday afternoon at Memorial Field House.

Sanders moved up to second on the all-time list with 198 3-pointers passing Geoff Evans. He is 89 behind Jason Bullock for the top spot. Sanders finished the game with 15 points.

Estrella also recorded a double-double in the last meeting between the two teams in last seasons PSAC championship game.

Ashton Smith tallied 13 points, pulled down eight boards and dished out five assists. The five helpers tied Smith with Bullock for 11th in school history with 293.

Kevin Stewart chipped in 13 points off the bench and added five assists including the pass to Sanders on the game clinching 3-pointer. Scooter Renkin also reached double figures for the Crimson Hawks with 10 points and three dimes.

Darryl Webb scored only five points, but he grabbed 11 rebounds to make him the first player in school-history to reach 1,000. He also contributed a career-high six assists and blocked four shots adding to his school record.

The Crimson Hawks built their largest lead of the game 54-41, at the 13:15 mark, after starting the second half on a 20-10 run.

The Golden Bears answered with an 18-6 run that started at 12:11 on a 3-pointer by Devin McBride, who scored all eight of his points in the run, and cut the IUP lead to 60-59 with just 5:40 left on the clock.

IUP trailed 31-25 at the 5:46 mark in the first half after Eric Brennan hit a runner in the lane. The Crimson Hawks scored the next seven points to take a 34-31 lead into the half.

Tamir Johnson paced Kutztown with a game-high 25 points and nine rebounds.

IUP is now 10-2 in crossover games in the past three seasons and 3-1 in crossover action this year. They have won 38 of their last 40 games at Memorial Field House including the current 28 game winning streak.

courtesy of iup athletics

*****************************************************
  EBA   


Horizon Sign Guinness Book of World Records Vertical Jump Champion - by EBA Media
Harrisburg Horizon, who open their season this Sunday, January 16, have added World Class Slam Dunk champion, Wayne Clark to their roster.

The 64 guard from Allentown, holds the Guinness World Record for Highest Vertical Slam Dunk set in 2006 at 70 inches.

Clark has played world-wide in Italy, Mexico, Germany and Romania and has traveled with The Harlem Globetrotters.


Horizon Sign Guinness Book of World Records Vertical Jump Champion - by EBA Media
Harrisburg Horizon, who open their season this Sunday, January 16, have added World Class Slam Dunk champion, Wayne Clark to their roster.

The 64 guard from Allentown, holds the Guinness World Record for Highest Vertical Slam Dunk set in 2006 at 70 inches. Even to this day, no athlete has been able to match Waynes world records, as the competition around the world grows stronger every day. Wayne is a master of the game of basketball with the ability to score success from anywhere on the court, whether by himself, or as a part of the team.

Clark has played world-wide in Italy, Mexico, Germany and Romania and has traveled with The Harlem Globetrotters.



*****************************************************
  ECUADOR   


Espanol de Talca upset Mavort - by Eurobasket News
Mavort - Espanol de Talca 76:85

Espanol de Talca celebrated the first win at the Liga Americas Group C. They shocked hosting Mavort at the Coliseum Luis Leoro Franco in Ibarra. Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82) stepped up with 25 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Chilean powerhouse.
Espanol got to a strong start. The visitors unloaded 23 points in the opening ten minutes and recorded a 3-point lead. Blake Walker (196-G/F-82, college: Portland St.) came up for Mavort in the second stanza. He helped Mavort bounce back as they posted a 38:37 lead at the interval. Espanol shocked the home side at the start of the third term. The Chilean team went on a 10:0 run to surge ahead. They took over from that moments and rallied to the victory at the end. Peter Kvietek (203-C-77) delivered 15 points and 17 rebounds for Espanol de Talca. Blake Walker replied with game-high 31 points for Espanol de Talca.


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


Veideman's 40-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
19-year old guard Rain Veideman (192-G-91) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team TU/Rock and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
He had the game-high 40 points adding three rebounds and seven assists for TU/Rock in his team's victory, helping them to outclass Voru KK (#9, 1-17) with 72-point margin 134-62. It allowed TU/Rock to consolidate first place in the Estonian league. TU/Rock has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 17-1. In the team's last game Veideman had a remarkable 82.4% from 2-point range and got three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be TU/Rock's top player in his first season with the team. Rain Veideman averages this season 13.6ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Raido Ringmets (204-C/F-83) of Rapla. He is a in his first season at Rapla. In the last game Ringmets recorded impressive double-double of 29 points and 23 rebounds. Of course Rapla cruised to a 75-65 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Parnu (#8, 4-13). This victory allowed Rapla to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-10 record. Ringmets is a newcomer at Rapla and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another TU/Rock's star - forward Tanel Kurbas (197-F-88). Kurbas scored 28 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was another key player of TU/Rock, helping his team with a 134-62 easy win against the lower-ranked Voru KK (#9, 1-17). Many experts and fans count TU/Rock as a contender for championship title. Another victory and another confirmation that they may be right. Just look at their record: 17 victories and only one lost games. They are currently at the very top of the standings. Kurbas has a very solid season. In 13 games in Estonia he scored 7.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kaarel Koolman (204-F-88) of Valga/CKE - 26 points and 6 rebounds
5. Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) of Kalev/Cramo - 25 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Silver Kuuba (198-F-74) of Voru KK - 11 points and 14 rebounds
7. Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) of TU/Rock - 11 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Matthew Hall (191-G-86) of Rakvere - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Andrew Arnold (208-C-86) of TTU/Kalev II - 9 points and 21 rebounds
10. Tanel Kurbas (197-F-88) of TU/Rock - 17 points and 2 rebounds

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Cedevita officially signs Bracey Wright - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Cedevita officially signed a deal with American guard Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana). The team has learned that Marino Bazdaric will be out for at least one more month and they immediately decided to sign Wright. He inked a two-month contract with an option to extend it for the rest of the season.
Bracey Wright arrives to Cedevita from Paris-Levallois, where he started this season. He appeared 11 times in ProA averaging 9.2 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists. Last season, Wright played in Belgium. He joined Oostende in January and helped them to win the Belgian Cup. In the league he had 12.8 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.6 apg for 19 games. Wright also has experience from Aris, Joventut and Minnesota Timberwolves. In the past, he was a member of U18 and U21 USA National Team.

*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE   


Montepaschi loses McCalebb indefinitely - by Eurobasket News
Montepaschi Sienas All-Euroleague point guard Bo Lester McCalebb (183-G-85, college: New Orleans) will miss the start of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 with a broken toe, the club revealed on Tuesday. McCalebb will miss several weeks after suffering the injury during Sundays Italian League game against Dinamo Sassari. Further examination confirmed that McCalebb has a broken bone in the fifth metatarsus of his left foot. Montepaschi and the player have yet to decide confirm if he will undergo surgery and how much time he will be sidelined, but even in a best-case scenario McCalebb is not expected to rejoin the team by the start of the Top 16 and he may miss the Italian Cup final eight early next month, too. In his first season with the perennial Italian League champs, McCalebb was among the Euroleagues top five in scoring (15.5 ppg.), index ranking (18.1 ppg.) and steals (2.4 spg.), while leading his team to an 8-2 record and first place in Group C.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Lottomatica Roma and Matteo Boniciolli agree to part ways - by Eurobasket News
Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) is no longer a Head Coach of Lottomatica Roma. Two sides agreed to terminate the contract yesterday. Assistant coach Drasko Prodanovic (agency: Interperformances ) will coach the team on an interim basis with a new head coach expected to be named soon.

'I would like to thank team president Toti for giving me the opportunity to coach a club as important as Roma,' said Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ). 'I wish good luck to the team and the club. I am sure that Virtus will bounce back from this difficult period.'

'After 25 years of friendship and cooperation with Boniciolli, I am very sorry,' Bogdan Tanjevic said. 'But it is a decision we made together after the game in Bologna. This does not detract from our friendship. Matteo has done great things in his career and with the teams he has coached he has always done well, often making miracles, like winning the Italian Cup with Avellino. We reached the Euroleague Top 16, which was an important milestone for us and for this reason in particular he should be thanked. Unfortunately for a number of causes, including injuries, the team has not done as well in the Italian League, so we took this painful decision, together with Matteo and with the club.' (Courtesy of Euroleague)

Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) took over Lottomatica Roma in December of 2009. This season they registered 5-5 record in Euroleague and booked a spot for Top 16, while in Italian league Roma had just six wins in 14 games. The latest defeat against CS Bologna was the crucial one and both sides agreed to terminate the deal signed year and a half ago.

Saso Filipovski is the new Head Coach of Virtus Roma - by Antonello Varallo
The 37 years old coach Saso Filipovski has been named as new head coach of Lottomatica Roma after Matteo Boniciolli has been fired.
Filipovski began his career as coach assistant of Olimpija Lubiana, that was also his first team as head coach.
Then, he moved to Turow Zgorzelec (Poland - DBL), (he was Polish League Coach of the Year -07) leaving the team after 2 and 1 half seasons, and he joined Lokomotiv Rostov (Russia A- Superleague), where he coached until Nov.'10. During this season, he has been coach assistant of CSKA Moskow (Russia -PBL).

It was painted Red - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Olympiacos took the first big game of the season against its big rival Panathinaikos. Taking many points from its tall guys and enforcing its tempo at the game, Ivcovic players made a big win which gives them a significant lead in the way to the championship.
The game started with the two teams being very nervous, missing a lot of their shots, taking though many offensive rebounds. Olympiacos was hitting from close to the basket while Panathinaikos couldnt find a rhythym, finding many difficulties in shooting and executing its plays (2 baskets in the buzzer). Vougioukas contribution, coming from the bench was remarkable both in the two sides of the field, as well as Bourousis one. The period ended at a draw (18-18) with the two teams having 6/18 and 7/21 shots respectively.
At the second period, Olympiacos entered more strongly with Radoslav Nesterovic (212-C-76) scoring 5 consecutive points. However, Kalathis 3p shot made the 25-25. None team managed to take a significant difference, with Papaloukas being in a good mood while at the same time Spanoulis was very anxious (1/5 shots). Panathinaikos couldnt find easy ways for free shots, meanwhile it couldnt create plays from inside the racket as well. Only Sato seemed in a good day, scoring 11 points (taking 5 rebs as well). Olympiacos had a good circulation playing with three guards, having Bourousis (8 points and 5 rebs) and Erceg in a very good day (especially the Serb played very well in defense also). The first half ended at 34-36 with a buzzer from Halperin, in a low tempo game, where Olympiacos enforced his rhythym, making a very good work at its defence as well, without letting the Greens run.
At the third period, Olympiacos entered more desively, taking a 5p lead (36-41). However, the period was a battle between Nicholas and the Reds. The American shooting guard took his gun, scoring 11 points of the 15 of his team, keeping his team alive. On the other hand Olympiacos still kept the tempo low, but its mistakes didnt let him take a good lead. Halperin 3p successful buzzer again, made the final 49-51.
The final period started with Spanoulis at the first fives for the Reds. However, the whole climate seemed to have influenced him since he missed shots and made crucial mistakes. Both teams were very nervous and after 5.40 minutes only 7 points were made. At that time, Papaloukas was hit by a firework and the game was interrupted by the referees, who went at the lockers along with the players of Olympiacos for six minutes until the fans calm. The game was though continued after giving a last chance to the Green fans for a successful end of the game. Fotsis made a 2p shot and Radoslav Nesterovic responded with a goal-foul for the draw (58-58). Batiste missed a shot, Radoslav Nesterovic made a mistake and after successive missed shots from the Greens, two beautiful plays from Papaloukas and Radoslav Nesterovic gave the Reds a 4p lead (58-62). Nicholas made a mistake again and the game seemed to return to Red after another 2p lay-up from Papaloukas. At the rest time, Panathinaikos missed almost all his shots (only Fotsis succeeded at a 3p shot), but the game has been decided and Olympiacos took the first big game of the season (61-65).
Panathinaikos: Tepic 2, Perperoglou 6, Batiste 6, Fotsis 9, Sato 13, Nicholas 15, Tsartsaris, Diamantidis 2, Vougioukas 5, Calathes 3, Kaimakoglou

Olympiacos: Papaloukas 9, Nesterovic 17, Gordon, Spanoulis 4, Vasilopoulos, Bourousis 8, Mavrokefalidis 2, Halperin 5, Papanikolaou, Erceg 10, Teodosic 10



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


Korisliiga Round 27: Leader KTP-Basket loses to Torpan Pojat - by Eurobasket News
The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with defeat of the leader, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Top ranked KTP-Basket (22-5) recorded its fifth loss in Helsinki on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by seventh ranked Torpan Pojat (13-14) 94-85. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of KTP-Basket. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 23-18. But KTP-Basket won second period 22-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Torpan Pojat made 27-of-35 free shots (77.1 percent) during the game. 31 personal fouls committed by KTP-Basket helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward LaVell Blanchard (201-81, college: Michigan, agency: Beo Basket) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 15 rebounds. The former international power forward Hanno Mottola (209-76, college: Utah) chipped in 9 points and 9 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Jerald Fields (201-82, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Lanshire Group) who recorded 20 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Torpan Pojat maintains seventh place with 13-14 record. KTP-Basket at the other side still keeps top position with five games lost. Torpan Pojat are looking forward to face higher ranked Espoo Honka (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KTP-Basket will play against the league's second-placed Tampereen Pyrinto (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Joensuun Kataja (17-10) against ninth ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (11-16) on Wednesday night. Visiting Joensuun Kataja was defeated by ninth ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (11-16) in a tough game in Kauhajoki 94-103. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Walt Baxley contributed with 21 points for the winners. Guard Jason Conley (196-81, college: Missouri, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds for Joensuun Kataja. Kauhajoen Karhu moved-up to eighth place. Joensuun Kataja at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Korihait. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against Salon Vilpas (#10) on the road in the next round. Joensuun Kataja will play against Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Kouvola was quite interesting. Fourth ranked UU-Korihait (17-10) played at the court of 6th ranked Kouvot (14-13). UU-Korihait managed to secure a 7-point victory 84-77 on Wednesday. It was a great evening for Petri Heinonen who led his team to a victory scoring 24 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was Ville Kaunisto with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 19 rebounds and 4 assists. UU-Korihait has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Kataja. Loser Kouvot keeps the sixth position with 13 games lost. UU-Korihait will meet at home bottom-ranked Porvoon Tarmo (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kouvot will play against Joensuun Kataja (#3) and hope to secure a win.
The game in Lahti was quite interesting. Fifth ranked Espoo Honka (16-10) played at the court of 8th ranked Namika Lahti (10-16). Espoo Honka managed to secure a 5-point victory 96-91. It was an exceptional evening for Jamar Wilson who led the winners and scored 45 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds. Espoo Honka's coach Pekka Salminen allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Espoo Honka maintains fifth place with 16-10 record. Namika Lahti lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with 16 games lost. Espoo Honka's next round opponent will be Torpan Pojat (#7) in Helsinki. Namika Lahti will play on the road against LrNMKY in Lappeenranta and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very interesting game took place in Porvoo. It ended with only two-point home defeat of 12th ranked Porvoon Tarmo (4-23) to eleventh ranked LrNMKY (7-20) 75-73 in the game for the eleventh place. The game was also dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was Malik Moore who scored 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. LrNMKY maintains eleventh place with 7-20 record. Porvoon Tarmo lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo stay dead last with 23 lost games. LrNMKY will face higher ranked Namika Lahti (#9) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Porvoon Tarmo will play against UU-Korihait where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.

In the last game of round 27 Salon Vilpas was crushed by Pyrinto in Tampere 101-65.

Pyrinto - Salon Vilpas 101-65

There was no surprise when 10th ranked Salon Vilpas (9-18) was crushed on the road by second ranked Tampereen Pyrinto (21-6) 101-65 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Tampereen Pyrinto led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. Salon Vilpas was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) who scored 13 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. The former international power forward Antti Nikkila (210-78, college: Valparaiso) chipped in 16 points and 9 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Nigerian guard Nick Okorie (185-88, college: Texas Tech) who recorded 12 points and 5 assists and the former international forward Jukka Kataja (197-82) added 14 points respectively. Five Tampereen Pyrinto and four Salon Vilpas players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Tampereen Pyrinto have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. Defending champion maintains second place with 21-6 record behind leader KTP. Loser Salon Vilpas keeps the tenth position with 18 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto will face league's leader KTP-Basket in Kotka in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Salon Vilpas will play at home against Kauhajoen Karhu (#8) in Kauhajoki and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Salon Vilpas: J.Kataja 14+3reb+2ast, N.Okorie 12+4reb+5ast, N.Doaks 12+7reb, R.Ahonen 11+3ast, R.Thompson 8+5reb+3ast, M.Nuutinen 7+5reb
Pyrinto: K.Lowe 19+1reb+3ast, A.Nikkila 16+9reb, A.Williams 14+5reb+5ast, D.Williams 13+7reb+7ast, A.Lehto 12+2reb+2ast, O.Ahvenniemi 9+5reb
gschID: 106545


Karhu - Kataja 103-94

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Joensuun Kataja (17-10) against ninth ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (11-16) on Wednesday night. Visiting Joensuun Kataja was defeated by ninth ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (11-16) in a tough game in Kauhajoki 94-103. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 30-20. But Joensuun Kataja won second period 26-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kauhajoen Karhu shot 60.3 percent from the field and made 27-of-31 charity shots (87.1 percent) during the game, while Joensuun Kataja only scored ten points from the stripe. Kauhajoen Karhu outrebounded Joensuun Kataja 32-20 including 23 on the defensive glass. Joensuun Kataja was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Guard Walt Baxley (191-84, college: Mars Hill, agency: 540 Sports) contributed with 21 points for the winners. Guard Jason Conley (196-81, college: Missouri, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds and swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) added 21 points and 5 steals in the effort for Joensuun Kataja. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Kauhajoen Karhu moved-up to eighth place. Joensuun Kataja at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Korihait. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against Salon Vilpas (#10) on the road in the next round. Joensuun Kataja will play against Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Kataja: J.Newson 21+3reb+1ast, A.Kanervo 19+3reb+2ast, J.Conley 17+6reb+3ast, D.Fells 13+1reb+3ast, S.Lehtoranta 13+2reb+3ast, J.Nenonen 7+1reb
Karhu: J.Wood 24+10reb+3ast, W.Baxley 21+3reb+3ast, A.Huuskonen 19+3reb, V.Makalainen 13+6reb+3ast, S.Niskanen 11+3reb+1ast, E.Skamo 8+1reb
gschID: 106546


Kouvot - Korihait 77-84

The game in Kouvola was quite interesting. Fourth ranked UU-Korihait (17-10) played at the court of 6th ranked Kouvot (14-13). UU-Korihait managed to secure a 7-point victory 84-77 on Wednesday. Kouvot trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 21-13 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 77-84 at the end of the game. It was a great evening for international power forward Petri Heinonen (207-88) who led his team to a victory scoring 24 points and 7 rebounds. American forward Lawrence Wright (195-84, college: Bradley) helped adding 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 19 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Antto Nikkarinen (185-91) scored 25 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. UU-Korihait has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Kataja. Loser Kouvot keeps the sixth position with 13 games lost. UU-Korihait will meet at home bottom-ranked Porvoon Tarmo (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kouvot will play against Joensuun Kataja (#3) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Kouvot: A.Nikkarinen 25+2reb+1ast, J.Gonner 22+2ast, B.Walker 12+3reb+4ast, V.Kaunisto 10+19reb+4ast, D.Vinson 8+7reb+2ast, J.Maenpaa 0
Korihait: P.Heinonen 24+7reb+1ast, L.Wright 17+5reb+4ast, J.Reaves 13+7reb, B.Sarcevic 11+8reb+4ast, N.Moore 7+6reb+7ast, M.Jalonen 6+1reb
gschID: 106547


Namika Lahti - Honka 91-96

The game in Lahti was quite interesting. Fifth ranked Espoo Honka (16-10) played at the court of 8th ranked Namika Lahti (10-16). Espoo Honka managed to secure a 5-point victory 96-91. The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Espoo Honka made 18-of-22 charity shots (81.8 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Namika Lahti helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Jamar Wilson (185-84, college: Albany) who led the winners and scored 45 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds. The former international guard Tuomas Iisalo (195-82, agency: Court Side) accounted for 20 points for the winning side. Espoo Honka's coach Pekka Salminen allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American forward Anthony Vereen (201-86, college: Texas Arlington) came up with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists and forward Cedric Latimer (198-87, college: St.Francis, PA) added 22 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Namika Lahti in the defeat. Four Namika Lahti players scored in double figures. Espoo Honka maintains fifth place with 16-10 record. Namika Lahti lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with 16 games lost. Espoo Honka's next round opponent will be Torpan Pojat (#7) in Helsinki. Namika Lahti will play on the road against LrNMKY in Lappeenranta and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Namika Lahti: C.Latimer 22+10reb+1ast, T.Hendley 21+9reb+2ast, A.Vereen 21+13reb+6ast, R.Ayers 16+6reb+1ast, R.Suonio 7+4ast, V.Heinonen 4+1reb
Honka: J.Wilson 45+5reb+3ast, T.Iisalo 20+4reb+1ast, V.Kopio 18+5reb+1ast, C.Belser 9+6reb, S.Vanttaja 3+2reb, J.Helenius 1+1reb
gschID: 106548


Tarmo - LrNMKY 73-75

A very interesting game took place in Porvoo. It ended with only two-point home defeat of 12th ranked Porvoon Tarmo (4-23) to eleventh ranked LrNMKY (7-20) 75-73 in the game for the eleventh place. Porvoon Tarmo cut a 14-point halftime deficit to two at the end of the game. LrNMKY made 20-of-24 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. The game was also dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was guard Malik Moore (192-77, college: Amer.Internat., agency: Prossin Sports Management) who scored 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward HL Coleman (202-74, college: Wyoming) chipped in 19 points and 7 rebounds. Five LrNMKY players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was swingman Jonathan Heard (198-86) who recorded 23 points and 6 rebounds and forward Jerrah Young (202-85, college: Toledo) added 9 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists respectively. LrNMKY maintains eleventh place with 7-20 record. Porvoon Tarmo lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo stay dead last with 23 lost games. LrNMKY will face higher ranked Namika Lahti (#9) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Porvoon Tarmo will play against UU-Korihait where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Tarmo: J.Heard 23+6reb+1ast, A.Conerly 18+1reb+3ast, E.Maki-Tulokas 13+5reb, J.Young 9+15reb+5ast, L.Trice Little 5+1reb, J.Kyllonen 5+3reb+4ast
LrNMKY: M.Moore 21+5reb+4ast, H.Coleman 19+7reb, J.Lewis 14+5reb+3ast, P.Riihela 11+8reb+1ast, V.Vanjoki 10+5reb+1ast, A.Tapio 0
gschID: 106549


ToPo - KTP 94-85

Top ranked KTP-Basket (22-5) recorded its fifth loss in Helsinki on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by seventh ranked Torpan Pojat (13-14) 94-85. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of KTP-Basket. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 23-18. But KTP-Basket won second period 22-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Torpan Pojat made 27-of-35 free shots (77.1 percent) during the game. 31 personal fouls committed by KTP-Basket helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward LaVell Blanchard (201-81, college: Michigan, agency: Beo Basket) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 15 rebounds. The former international power forward Hanno Mottola (209-76, college: Utah) chipped in 9 points and 9 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Jerald Fields (201-82, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Lanshire Group) who recorded 20 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists and the other American import guard Jeb Ivey (190-80, college: Portland St.) added 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) respectively. Four KTP-Basket players scored in double figures. Torpan Pojat maintains seventh place with 13-14 record. KTP-Basket at the other side still keeps top position with five games lost. Torpan Pojat are looking forward to face higher ranked Espoo Honka (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. KTP-Basket will play against the league's second-placed Tampereen Pyrinto (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
KTP: J.Ivey 22+5reb+4ast, J.Fields 20+9reb+6ast, C.Jones 18+9reb, S.Barrett 10+4reb+2ast, J.Eskola 6+2reb+1ast, M.Dobras 4+3reb
ToPo: L.Blanchard 24+15reb+2ast, M.Koivisto 18+1reb, T.Heinonen 11+6reb, E.Kajander 10+2reb+1ast, H.Mottola 9+9reb+2ast, F.Richards 8+3reb+2ast
gschID: 106544




Standings - Korisliiga
Korisliiga Standings
 1. KTP 22-5 
 2. Pyrinto 21-6 
 3. Kataja 17-10 
 4. Korihait 17-10 
 5. Honka 16-10 
 6. Kouvot 14-13 
 7. ToPo 13-14 
 8. Karhu 11-16 
 9. Namika Lahti 10-16 
 10. Salon Vilpas 9-18 
 11. LrNMKY 7-20 
 12. Tarmo 4-23 


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga
Points Per Game
 Jonathan HEARD
  Tarmo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Heard, Tarmo21.5 
 2. Wilson, Honka21.4 
 3. Lewis, LrNM.21.2 
 4. Blanchard, ToPo20.7 
 5. Walker, Kouvot19.6 
 6. Bailey, LrNM.19.6 
 7. Wood, Karhu19.5 
 8. Williamson, Honka19.3 
 9. Harris, Salon Vilpas19.0 
 10. Moore, LrNM.18.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 14
 1. Wood, Karhu14.0 
 2. Kaunisto, Kouvot10.6 
 3. Young, Tarmo10.2 
 4. Doaks, Salon Vilpas10.0 
 5. Vinson, Kouvot10.0 
 6. Blanchard, ToPo10.0 
 7. Mathis, Namika Lahti9.9 
 8. Williams, Pyrinto9.1 
 9. Belser, Honka8.5 
 10. Williamson, Honka8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Malik MOORE
  LrNMKY
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Moore, LrNM.4.5 
 2. Williams, Pyrinto4.4 
 3. Harris, Salon Vilpas4.4 
 4. Okorie, Salon Vilpas4.4 
 5. Suonio, Namika Lahti3.8 
 6. Wood, Karhu3.8 
 7. Virtanen, Kataja3.8 
 8. Sarcevic, Korihait3.8 
 9. Fields, KTP3.4 
 10. Ivey, KTP3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Jared NEWSON
  Kataja
  (195-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Newson, Kataja2.0 
 2. Fields, KTP2.0 
 3. Wood, Karhu2.0 
 4. Sarcevic, Korihait1.8 
 5. Heard, Tarmo1.8 
 6. Conerly, Tarmo1.8 
 7. Fells, Kataja1.7 
 8. Richards, ToPo1.7 
 9. Williams, Pyrinto1.6 
 10. Pekkola, LrNM.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 James REAVES
  Korihait
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 1
 1. Reaves, Korihait1.0 
 2. Hendley, Namika Lahti0.9 
 3. Lewis, LrNM.0.8 
 4. Moore, LrNM.0.7 
 5. Bailey, LrNM.0.7 
 6. Blanchard, ToPo0.7 
 7. Heard, Tarmo0.7 
 8. Wood, Karhu0.7 
 9. Suonio, Namika Lahti0.6 
 10. Young, Tarmo0.6 


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


Stats Leaders - N1
Points Per Game
 Larry BLAIR
  Denek
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 24.7
 1. Blair, Denek24.7 
 2. Pridotkas, Brest17.8 
 3. Blot, Blois17.8 
 4. Kennedy, Orchy17.6 
 5. Petrovic, St Et.17.0 
 6. Lalugba, Denain16.4 
 7. Lesieu, St Quentin16.2 
 8. Ford, Bordeaux15.9 
 9. Laroche, St Ch.15.8 
 10. Disy, Roche15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christopher GRIMM
  Blois
  (207-F/C-84)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Grimm, Blois9.2 
 2. Simmons, St Et.9.1 
 3. Pasut, Sorgues8.4 
 4. Alingue, Souffel8.3 
 5. Lesieu, St Quentin8.2 
 6. Boutry, Challans8.2 
 7. Roberts, Brest8.1 
 8. Hoard, Lievin7.8 
 9. Griffin, Angers B.7.8 
 10. Kennedy, Orchy7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Rathieuville, Brest6.2 
 2. Cortey, Le Puy5.9 
 3. Brochard, Blois5.9 
 4. Ramphort, Angers B.4.9 
 5. Driss, Bordeaux4.2 
 6. Thomas, St Etienne4.1 
 7. Darrigand, Bordeaux4.1 
 8. Barbry, Orchy4.0 
 9. Sauret, Denain4.0 
 10. Rambur, St Quentin3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Larry BLAIR
  Denek
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 3
 1. Blair, Denek3.0 
 2. Neri, Roche2.2 
 3. Ipouck, Le Puy2.1 
 4. Sauret, Denain2.1 
 5. Driss, Bordeaux1.9 
 6. Pistre, Le Puy1.9 
 7. Barbry, Orchy1.8 
 8. Blot, Blois1.7 
 9. Rinna, St Chamond1.6 
 10. Thinon, Sorgues1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Jean-Stephane RINNA
  St Chamond
  (205-F-83)
  Avg: 2
 1. Rinna, St Chamond2.0 
 2. Traore, Angers B.1.9 
 3. Ford, Bordeaux1.8 
 4. Alingue, Souffel1.8 
 5. Lalugba, Denain1.2 
 6. Pasut, Sorgues1.1 
 7. Kennedy, Orchy1.1 
 8. Gourde, Get Vosges1.0 
 9. Diallo, Roche1.0 
 10. Ipouck, Le Puy1.0 


Paris-Levallois fires Dupraz, promotes Christophe Denis as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Paris-Levallois parted ways with Jean-Marc Dupraz and immediately promoted Christophe Denis as their new Head Coach. The team currently has 4-9 record in ProA (13h place).
Christophe Denis started the season as Assistant Coach. Before Paris-Levallois, Christophe Denis worked with Paris Basket Racing and Antibes.
Jean-Marc Dupraz took over Paris-Levallois in 2008. At the same season he was the regular season champion with them and earned a spot for ProA. Before he took over the team as HC, Dupraz was working one season as an Assistant Coach. In the past, he worked Levallois SCB three year. As a player, Dupraz was a member of Levallois, Saint-Quentin, Maurienne and Limoges.
Next game of Paris-Levallois is scheduled for January 15 against Orleans at home.

JA Vichy adds TJ Thompson - by Eurobasket News
JA Vichy came up with the new signing. The French outfit inked a deal with TJ Thompson (177-G-82, college: George Washington) for rest of the season. The 28-year-old point guard arrives to JA Vichy from Ilysiakos Athens, where he started this season. He appeared 7 times in Greek league averaging 6.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 5 assists.
Before Ilysiakos, TJ Thompson split the season 2008/09 between Turow and Ludwigsburg. Thompson played six games for the Polish squad, before he moved to Germany. For 12 games in 1.Bundesliga he had 12 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 2.8 apg. From 2007 to 2009, Thompson was a member of Le Havre and before that he spent half of the season with Hyeres-Toulon.
TJ Thompson is a product of the George Washington University, where he graduated in 2005. He had 13.6 ppg, 2 rpg and 2.9 apg for them as a senior.

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


German 1.Bundesliga round 18 best performance: Derrick Allen - by Eurobasket News
American forward Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for ALBA Berlin, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
The 31-year old player had a double-double of 28 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat MBC (#15, 5-13) 72-61. ALBA maintains the 3rd position in German 1.Bundesliga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. ALBA will need more victories to improve their 12-5 record. Allen turned to be ALBA's top player in his first season with the team. Derrick Allen averages this season 13.9ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84) of NY Phantoms. Thomas had a very good evening with 27 points and 5 rebounds. Of course NY Phantoms cruised to a 93-82 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Bayreuth (#17, 4-14). This victory allowed NY Phantoms to move up to 5th position in . His team lost some distance to top teams. But 11-7 record is not bad and everything may still change. Thomas is well-known at NY Phantoms and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was American center John Bryant (208-C-87) of ratiopharm Ulm (#12). Bryant scored 22 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of ratiopharm, leading his team to a 87-82 win against the higher-ranked Dt.Bank SKY (#2, 13-5). The chances of ratiopharm ranking at the top of , however are very questionable as they have already lost 10 games, recording just eight victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Bryant could help ratiopharm to bring them higher in the standings. Bryant has a great season in Germany. After 18 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.0ppg (6th best) and rebounds with 10.8rpg (#1 in league). He also has 1.2bpg and FGP: 63.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. DaShaun Wood (185-G-85) of Dt.Bank SKY - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Branislav Ratkovica (193-G-85) of Walter Tigers - 22 points, 4 rebounds and 9 assists
6. Chris Oliver (198-F-85) of Walter Tigers - 22 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Oliver Stevic (204-F/C-84) of EWE Baskets - 23 points and 6 rebounds
8. Alex Harris (196-G-86) of EnBW L'burg - 26 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Bryan Bailey (185-G-80) of Art.Dragons - 23 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Pete Campbell (201-F-84) of Bayreuth - 29 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

The Licher Baskets Baeren (PRO B) Add Mike Buckley - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO B team Licher Baskets Baeren have gone into the second half of the season by adding some strength to the roster by brining in Mike Buckley (196-F). Buckely is a 196cm forward from Philadelphia. He played at Harcum College, before transfereing to Coppin State in 2008. In 2008-2009, he played 21 games: 7.0ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 40.7%, 3Pts: 34.4%, FT: 60.9%. He reached the MEAC Tournament Semifinals in 2009. 'We want that Mike gives us more physical strength under the basket. We have to get an idea first about exactly what he can do since he just arrived a few days ago', stressed Licher Baskets baeren coach Igor Starcevic (201-F-72).

Source: Licher Baskets Baeren

Bryan Bailey (Artland Dragons) Postgame Thoughts To 96-71 Win Against EnBW Ludwigsburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Bryan Bailey (185-G-80, college: Bucknell) is a 30 year old 185cm combo guard playing his 9th professional basketball season and playinghis fourth with The Artland Dragons. He is a true team leader both on and off the court. He possesses a diverse game, with an ability to stroke the long-range jumper, penetrate to the rim or distribute the ball. He is solid on the defensive end of the floor as well. His fierce competitive drive rubs off on his teammates. He started his professional basketball career at Bucknell and player there from 1998-2002 and in his senior year played 17games averaging 18.1ppg,5.3rpg,2.4apg. He made All-Patriot League 1st Team in 2001 and 2002. In 2002-2003, he started his professional basketball season in Germany with DJK S. Oliver Wurzburg (Germany-1Bundesliga, starting five): 26 games, 15.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4spg. In 2003-2004, he played in Holland for Landstede Zwolle (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 35 games: 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, 0.2bpg. He then played with The Artland Dragons from 2004-2007 reaching the league and cup final in 2007. His best statistical season was 2005-2006 playing 33 games and averaging 11.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 25.3%. In 2007-2008, he played with Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 10.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 84.3%. In 2008-2009, he played in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE): Eurocup: 6 games: 7.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg; Polish League: 32 games: 8.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77.0%. Last season, he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg playing Euroleague: 4 games: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg; German League: 6 games: 9.3ppg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.7%. He sat down and spoke with Eurobasket after the 96-71 win against EnBW Ludwigsburg.

Congrats on the 96-71 win against EnBW Ludwigsburg. Was this the real Artland Dragons that the fans saw tonight?

We got it going early and moved the ball well on offense. I think when we do this we are a very dangerous team.

The Artland Dragons had the 56-34 lead at halftime. Were you surprised that you were leading by so much in this game?

We tried to take Ludwigsburg out of their comfort zone and make them take difficult shots. We did this in the first half and that was the reason why we lead by so much at the half.

The Artland Dragons led by as much as 30 after three quarters. What was the strongest asset of the team on this day?

I think are strongest asset was our team defense. We played alert and focused for most of the game.

After winning five in a row, EnBW Ludwigsburg have lost three in a row. What has been the biggest problem with that team?

I don't think they have a big problem. Sometimes your team just gets in a little funk, which you have to work through.

You led Atland with 23 points. Do you remember your 34 point explosion in 2003 with Wurzburg?

Yea. I think the game was also against Ludwigsburg on the road. I played well, but in the end we lost the game.

Alex Harris exploded with 26 points. What makes him so hard to stop?

Al is difficult to guard, because he has a quick first step and is a good shooter. If you play him for the drive he'll shoot the jumper and if you get too close he has the ability to get to the rim.

How will Damien Wilkins help the Atlanta Hawks most?

I think he will help them, because of his experience in the league. He's been around the league for some years so he knows what to expect.

What was your favorite movie in 2010?

Catfish


Thnaks Bryan for the chat.

John Bynum (TBB Trier) BG Goettingen Kept Their Foot On The Gas And Kept Us At A Distance In The Second Half - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

John Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) is a 32 year old 191 cm guard from Visalia California that is playing his first season with TBB Trier. He is a good fighter, fast and good in offensive playing. He is great athlete who can shoot the ball with consistency from 3 and finish with authority on the break. He is a tremendous defender on the ball. He played college basketball at College of the Sequoias Junior College:from 1996-1998 and then transferred to Metropolitan St. (NCAA2): and played there from 1998-2000. He started his professional basketball career in 2001 in the Uk for the Solent Stars (United Kingdom-NBLConf): 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assist. In 2002-2003, came his first tour of duty in Germany for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga): 24.7ppg, 9.2rpg, 6.7apg, 3.5spg. In 2003-2004, he played for the Ulriken Eagles (Norway-BNLO): Regular Season: 14 games: 20,1ppg, 8,1rpg, 2,5apg, 2,9spg, 0,4bpg.In 2004-2005, he was back in Germany playing for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-2.Bundesliga): 30 games: Score-5 (26.0ppg), 7.7rpg, Ast-4 (5.4apg), 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 63.6%. In 2005-2006, he played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-A1): only pre-season, then joined COOCOON Baskets Weiden (Germany-2.Bundesliga, starting five): 8 games: 15.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 51%, left in Jan.'06 and later that month signed at Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 21 games: 7.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 56.5%. In 2006-2007, he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 31 games: 5.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 43.1%, 3FGP: 25.0%, FT: 55.9%. In 2007-2008, he played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 14 games: 14.4ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-5 (4.6apg), 2.3spg, 2FGP: 54%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 58.5%, left in Jan.'08 due to shoulder injury, in Feb.'08 moved to Digibu Baskets Paderborn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 13 games: 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 70.0%. Last season, he played in the PRO A for Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-ProA, starting five): 27 games: 16.9ppg, 7.1rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.8%. He spoke with eurobasket after the 65-53 loss to BG Goettingen.

How quickly was it apparent in the first minutes of the game that the game would be more a defensive battle?


well anytime the score is 11-0 with 3 minutes to go in the first quarter I think we can all do the math and see that it is going to be a low scoring game. It was a good start to the game for us but we couldnt expand our lead and get anything going at the offensive end either.


TBB Trier limited BG Goettingen to only 8 points in the first quarter. Was this the type of defense that you envisioned your club to play to be successful for 40 minutes?


It is tough to play that way against a team like Gottingen for 40 minutes, basketball is a game of runs and just like most teams every team finds a way to score and get back into the game especially with them being at home. They got a lot of second chances and they capatalized as the game went along

However BG Goettingen outscored TBB trier 23-8 in the second quarter. What typ of adjustments did BG Goettingen seem to make?


I think we shot ourselves in the foot. Defensively we were getting the first effort but when the ball came off the rim, they were beating us to the ball, and outworking us and it seemed like they wanted it more in the 2nd quarter. They outworked us in the 2nd quarter point blank period.

In the second half, BG Goettingen was able to keep TBB Trier at bay. What was key in the second half for the opponent to win the game?


I think they came out and continued to do the things that got them the lead in the 2nd quarter. It is tough to come back when you are trailing by double digits on the road and they continue to put their foot on the gas and keep us at a distance.

BG Goettingen was without Kyle Bailey. Louis Dale did a pretty good job despite not always getting that many minutes this season. How important was Dale for the win?



Dale stepped up and made key plays for them. They do miss Kyle but they have a lot of guards who can make plays and Dale showed that tonight.

Mike Scott is a very important player fro BG Goettingen especially on offense. He made five blocks on defense. How dangerous of a defender is he?


Well Mike played great for them, he is a very versatile player and a tough player to match up with at the offensive end as well. On the defensive end he is athletic and was all over the place and he did change a lot of shots and let his presence be known by his blocks.


BG Goettingen get a lot of production from each player. Is BG goettingen going to become a more unpredictable team down the road in terms of how to defend them simply because so many guys there produce.


Well they are a deep team and that is good to have so many different players that can score. I think more than anything is it good to have when you can rotate and keep fresh guys on the court especially with the style that they play.

Samy Picard scored five points in four minutes. How has he been developing and will he be able to increase his minutes in the future?


Samy is a great player and works harder than anyone at the practices. He plays hard everytime he gets in the game and I think if he continues to do what he does when he comes in the game his minutes should increase. He is bringing positive energy when he comes into the game and it rubs off on the players he is in the game with.

How much can Carmelo Anthony help the Nets?


I hate to say this because im a nugget fan but he can help them out a lot but he needs to stay in Denver which in reality will not happen.

Is all the snow gone in Trier? What is more beautiful? A pretty white Trier or a butt naked Trier?


All the snow is off the ground right now in Trier, and I think a butt naked Trier s always good. lol


Thanks John for the chat.

Quantez Robertson (Deutsche Bank Skyliners) I Am Already Working On My Dunks For The Slam Dunk Contest. - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) is a 24 year old 190 cm guard from Cincinnati Ohio. He is playing his second season in Germany in the BEKO BBL for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners. He played at Auburn from 2005-2009. In his senior year he played 36 games averaging 6.0ppg, 3.9rpg, 3.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 39.4%, 3Pts: 23.6%, FT: 62.3%. He reached the NIT elite 8 with Aubrun in 2009.He is seen as an athletic freak with amazing lateral quickness and long arms and is good enough to play in the NBA based off of his defensive skills alone. Last season, he played 48 games: 6.0ppg, 4.0rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 60.0%. This season in Eurochallenge play he played 6 games averaging 6,7ppg, 4,3rpg, 1,2apg and 1,3spg. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.


How was your new years eve in Germany?


It was nice. I celebrated with a couple of teammates and we went out to eat.


What did you like to do the most as a kid in Cincinnati on new years eve?


I remember having a party at my grand mothers place and eating snacks like chicken wings.


The Deutsche Bank Skyliners suffered a bitter 92-89 loss in Bonn. It seems like Frankfurt lost their nerves. What went wrong in the last minutes?


We lost our composure and let them get too many shots. They hit key shots and got to the free throw line. We were unable to execute on offense.


The Deutsche Bank Skyliners gave up 92 points. What were the biggest problems on defense?



We gave up too many open shots. We let them take too many runs which didnt allow us to find our game.


Where do The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have to improve the most in 2011?


It is important that we get back to playing defense the way we did at the start of the season. We did a good job holding teams to fewer points. We have to execute better on offense and make our open shots.

Folarin Campbell is playing very strong and better than he did last season with the Artland Dragons. What has changed in his game?


He is making a lot more open shots. He also is driving very well to the rim and that is hard to check. One has to contest his shots and not let him get to the free throw line.


What do The Deutsche Bank Skyliners have to do to get to the level of The Brose Baskets Bamberg?


We hav eto be able to get easy shots from our big men. He have to be more aggressive, limit them to one shot and beat them in the half court game where they are very strong.


The AJ Moye accident effected every one in the basketball community. How would you describe your personal relationship to AJ Moye?



We have been like brothers from the start. We were the two first guards that got to Frankfurt last summer and worked out together and hung out together. He is like a brother away from home.


How has AJ Moye made the team stronger in his absence?


We have come together more as a team. We depend more on each other and help each other out more.

How would this ending read to the season? AJ Moye returns to the 5th game final against The Brose Baskets Bamberg and shoots The Deutsche Bank Skyliners to the BEKO BBL title?


That would be a great ending. It would be good for the team, city of Frankfurt and AJ.


You have had an up and down season. What have been the biggest problems in your game?


I have to be able to make more open shots and get to the free throw line more. If these things happen then that will help me on the offensive end.


How is your relationship to coach Gordon Herbert?


We have a very good player-coach relationship. He tells me to out and play aggressive, play my game and just help the team win.

Will you win the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game slam dunk contest?


I will win. I am already working on my dunks for the contest.


You will have some formidable competition from your friend Mark Dorris. Do you know what dunks he will do?


I dont know what dunks he will do. I know that he can jump. I havent really seen him make any spectacular dunks since I know him.


What can we expect from your dunks?


You wont see any of the dunks from last year, but new ones.


What will be key in winning against Ratiopharm Ulm on January 6th?



We have to be aggressive on defense and rebound well. We have to limit them to one shot, execute on offense and hit our open shots.


It seems like nobody can stop John Bryant. Will Frankfurt be able to stop him even without Joe Dabbert?


We have enough good big men to check John Bryant. We will have to do some different things on defense. If we can contain Bryant then we will have good chances to win.



Would you like to see Brad Buckman back in Frankfurt?



He was a great player that can play inside and hit the shot from outside. He is also a very good defender. I would love to see him back in Frankfurt.

Who can fly longer in the air you or Ratiopharm Ulm American Rocky Trice?


Me TEZ can.


What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


Inception. I liked the plot and how the movie revolves around dreams.


Thanks Tez for the chat.



*****************************************************
  GREECE   


Div.B Standing
B Standings
 1. OFI 10-2 
 2. Nea Kifisia 9-2 
 3. MENT 9-3 
 4. Doxa Lefkadas 9-3 
 5. Anagennisi 9-3 
 6. Ermis Perama 8-3 
 7. Aiolos Trik. 6-5 
 8. Diagoras 5-6 
 9. Stratoni 5-6 
 10. Aias Evosmou 5-6 
 11. Egaleo 5-7 
 12. Doukas 3-8 
 13. M.Alexandros 2-9 
 14. Apollon KL 1-10 
 15. Filippos Veroias 0-11 


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Milton PALACIO
  Kavala
  (190-G-78)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Palacio, Kavala17.7 
 2. Baxter, Ilysiakos17.0 
 3. Marshall, PAOK16.5 
 4. Dikoudis, AEK15.1 
 5. Tapoutos, Aris14.7 
 6. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos14.6 
 7. Tucker, Aris14.6 
 8. Grundy, AEK14.5 
 9. Everett, Iraklis13.9 
 10. Kalathis, VAP K.13.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Steven SMITH
  Panellinios
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Smith, Panellinios11.3 
 2. Simmons, Kavala9.5 
 3. Thompson, Ikaros9.2 
 4. Bagaric, Marousi8.2 
 5. Looby, Peristeri GS8.1 
 6. Kalathis, VAP K.8.1 
 7. Tucker, Aris7.8 
 8. Papadopoulos, PAOK7.1 
 9. Jazvin, Iraklis7.0 
 10. Kommatos, Marousi6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Vassilis SPANOULIS
  Olympiakos
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 6
 1. Spanoulis, Olympiakos6.0 
 2. Jordan, VAP K.5.2 
 3. Thompson, Ilysi.5.0 
 4. Everett, Iraklis4.4 
 5. Teodosic, Olympiakos4.3 
 6. Palacio, Kavala4.2 
 7. Papamakarios, Panell.3.8 
 8. Diamantidis, Panath.3.8 
 9. Mocnik, Perister.3.5 
 10. Kojadinovic, Marousi3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Rawle MARSHALL
  PAOK
  (201-G-82)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Marshall, PAOK2.4 
 2. Everett, Iraklis2.4 
 3. Papaloukas, Olymp.2.0 
 4. Grundy, AEK1.9 
 5. Xanthopoulos, Panell.1.9 
 6. Kojadinovic, Marousi1.8 
 7. Baxter, Ilysiakos1.8 
 8. Byars, Panellinios1.6 
 9. Jamon Lukas, Olymp.1.6 
 10. Petrovic-S., Iraklis1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Dalibor BAGARIC
  Marousi
  (217-C-80)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Bagaric, Marousi2.6 
 2. Simmons, Kavala2.2 
 3. Elonu, Panionios1.3 
 4. Thompson, Ikaros1.3 
 5. Dunston, Aris0.9 
 6. Looby, Peristeri GS0.8 
 7. Vougioukas, Panath.0.8 
 8. Papadopoulos, PAOK0.7 
 9. Nielsen, Olympiakos0.7 
 10. Harissis, VAP K.0.7 


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Olympiakos 12-0 
 2. Panathinaikos 11-1 
 3. Kavala 7-5 
 4. VAP Kolossos 7-5 
 5. Aris 7-5 
 6. Marousi 6-5 
 7. PAOK 6-6 
 8. Peristeri GS 6-6 
 9. Ikaros 5-7 
 10. Panionios 5-7 
 11. AEK 4-7 
 12. Iraklis 3-9 
 13. Panellinios 3-9 
 14. Ilysiakos 1-11 


It was painted Red - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Olympiacos took the first big game of the season against its big rival Panathinaikos. Taking many points from its tall guys and enforcing its tempo at the game, Ivcovic players made a big win which gives them a significant lead in the way to the championship.
The game started with the two teams being very nervous, missing a lot of their shots, taking though many offensive rebounds. Olympiacos was hitting from close to the basket while Panathinaikos couldnt find a rhythym, finding many difficulties in shooting and executing its plays (2 baskets in the buzzer). Vougioukas contribution, coming from the bench was remarkable both in the two sides of the field, as well as Bourousis one. The period ended at a draw (18-18) with the two teams having 6/18 and 7/21 shots respectively.
At the second period, Olympiacos entered more strongly with Radoslav Nesterovic (212-C-76) scoring 5 consecutive points. However, Kalathis 3p shot made the 25-25. None team managed to take a significant difference, with Papaloukas being in a good mood while at the same time Spanoulis was very anxious (1/5 shots). Panathinaikos couldnt find easy ways for free shots, meanwhile it couldnt create plays from inside the racket as well. Only Sato seemed in a good day, scoring 11 points (taking 5 rebs as well). Olympiacos had a good circulation playing with three guards, having Bourousis (8 points and 5 rebs) and Erceg in a very good day (especially the Serb played very well in defense also). The first half ended at 34-36 with a buzzer from Halperin, in a low tempo game, where Olympiacos enforced his rhythym, making a very good work at its defence as well, without letting the Greens run.
At the third period, Olympiacos entered more desively, taking a 5p lead (36-41). However, the period was a battle between Nicholas and the Reds. The American shooting guard took his gun, scoring 11 points of the 15 of his team, keeping his team alive. On the other hand Olympiacos still kept the tempo low, but its mistakes didnt let him take a good lead. Halperin 3p successful buzzer again, made the final 49-51.
The final period started with Spanoulis at the first fives for the Reds. However, the whole climate seemed to have influenced him since he missed shots and made crucial mistakes. Both teams were very nervous and after 5.40 minutes only 7 points were made. At that time, Papaloukas was hit by a firework and the game was interrupted by the referees, who went at the lockers along with the players of Olympiacos for six minutes until the fans calm. The game was though continued after giving a last chance to the Green fans for a successful end of the game. Fotsis made a 2p shot and Radoslav Nesterovic responded with a goal-foul for the draw (58-58). Batiste missed a shot, Radoslav Nesterovic made a mistake and after successive missed shots from the Greens, two beautiful plays from Papaloukas and Radoslav Nesterovic gave the Reds a 4p lead (58-62). Nicholas made a mistake again and the game seemed to return to Red after another 2p lay-up from Papaloukas. At the rest time, Panathinaikos missed almost all his shots (only Fotsis succeeded at a 3p shot), but the game has been decided and Olympiacos took the first big game of the season (61-65).
Panathinaikos: Tepic 2, Perperoglou 6, Batiste 6, Fotsis 9, Sato 13, Nicholas 15, Tsartsaris, Diamantidis 2, Vougioukas 5, Calathes 3, Kaimakoglou

Olympiacos: Papaloukas 9, Nesterovic 17, Gordon, Spanoulis 4, Vasilopoulos, Bourousis 8, Mavrokefalidis 2, Halperin 5, Papanikolaou, Erceg 10, Teodosic 10



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


Vincent Cairo joined Ammerud - by Eurobasket News
Vincent Cairo (197-F/G-77) joined Ammerud and had 2 points and 6 rebounds in the Regular Season Round 14. His new team however lost to Baerum 53-82. Vincent Cairo made 1/5 from the filed and had 0/2 from the free throw line and from the arc. Armeud meanwhile dropped to 2-9 record, but expects help from a newly signed player. The next game Ammerud will play on January 12th against Asker.
The season 2001-2002 the Dutch player started fro Challengers (Prom.Div.) and then moved to BV Jahn II (Holland-D2). In 2005-2006 played for ASVU (Prom. Div.) tested in preseason but not signed and then in 2005-2006 went to Penne (Italy-C2). In 2007 participated at the European Basketball Free Agent Camp in Luxembourg and in 2006-2007 moved to CariChieti Lanciano Basket (Italy-C2). In 2007-2008 appeared in Emmen Eagles (Prom.Divisie) and in 2008-2009 played for Red Giants Meppel (Prom.Divisie).


Standings - Promotie Divisie
Prom.Divisie Standings
 1. Red Giants 10-3 
 2. Dehoppers 8-2 
 3. Groene 8-3 
 4. Binnenland 8-4 
 5. Almonte 8-5 
 6. Goba 7-4 
 7. Leiden 2 7-4 
 8. Cangeroes 7-6 
 9. Amsterdam 2 5-6 
 10. Hoofddorp 5-6 
 11. Akrides 5-9 
 12. Punch 2-10 
 13. Black Eagles 2-11 
 14. Wildcats 1-10 


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


Olympia Reign Owner Asks for Support To Bring Team Back in 2011 - by John Gary
courtesy oursportscentral.com Mark Felton got the victories he wanted in the Olympia Reigns first full season in the IBL last spring. Now, the Reign owner is hoping to get the fiancial backing he wants as well. Felton said he needs about 50,000 in sponsorship for the Reign to return for another season. 'If we dont get the money were not going too be able to play,' Felton said. Felton said he spent more than 20,000 out of his own pocket last season,neither Felton nor coach Steve Small drew a paycheck from the operation. 'For the last three years Ive been putting my own money into it hoping the following would build up,but it didnt,' Felton said.

*****************************************************
  IRELAND   


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Clayton LONGMIRE
  Belfast Star
  (201-F-84)
  Avg: 31
 1. Longmire, Belfast .31.0 
 2. Bonaparte, Neptune29.3 
 3. Van, UCC Demons24.2 
 4. Mitchell, UL Ea.23.6 
 5. Foley, Ulster Elks23.2 
 6. Crowder, UCD M.22.9 
 7. Turner, Killester22.8 
 8. De La Cruz, Ulster E.21.8 
 9. Ambler, Moycullen21.1 
 10. O''Reilly, UCC D.15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cameron MITCHELL
  UL Eagles
  (201-F/C-88)
  Avg: 14.8
 1. Mitchell, UL Ea.14.8 
 2. Van, UCC Demons13.8 
 3. Ambler, Moycullen13.6 
 4. De La Cruz, Ulster E.12.6 
 5. Crowder, UCD M.10.8 
 6. Turner, Killester10.7 
 7. Provizors, DCU S.10.1 
 8. Bonaparte, Neptune9.8 
 9. Longmire, Belfast .9.1 
 10. Trimmer, DCU S.8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Scott KINEVANE
  UL Eagles
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Kinevane, UL Eagles6.8 
 2. Donnelly, DCU S.5.8 
 3. Meany, UCD Marian5.3 
 4. Drumm, Ulster Elks4.4 
 5. Noonan, Neptune4.2 
 6. McVeigh, Belfast .3.4 
 7. Foley, Ulster Elks3.3 
 8. Turner, Killester3.3 
 9. Westbrooks, Killester3.3 
 10. Clarke, Killester3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Michael MCGINN
  Neptune
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. McGinn, Neptune3.4 
 2. Westbrooks, Killester2.5 
 3. Crowder, UCD M.2.5 
 4. Donnelly, DCU S.2.5 
 5. Noonan, Neptune2.4 
 6. Turner, Killester2.3 
 7. Nihill, Moycullen2.3 
 8. Darling, DCU Saints2.3 
 9. Dowd, Moycullen2.2 
 10. Lacey, DCU Saints2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Marcus VAN
  UCC Demons
  (201-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Van, UCC Demons2.6 
 2. Bonaparte, Neptune2.4 
 3. Baynes, UCD Marian2.3 
 4. Turner, Killester2.1 
 5. Trimmer, DCU S.2.0 
 6. Longmire, Belfast .2.0 
 7. De La Cruz, Ulster E.1.3 
 8. Ambler, Moycullen1.2 
 9. Duggan, UCC Demons1.0 
 10. Crowder, UCD M.1.0 


SuperLeague Round 13: #1 Dart Killester is defeated by Belfast Star - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of top-ranked Dart Killester (10-2) in Dublin on Saturday night. Hosts were defeated by fourth ranked Belfast Star (4-6) 75-67. Belfast Star forced 19 Dart Killester turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Dart Killester helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Clayton Longmire (201-84, college: St.Rose (NY)) stepped up and scored 39 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners and naturalized British guard Stephen Dawson (190-80) chipped in 8 points and 4 assists. At the losing side naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) responded with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Belfast Star maintains fourth place with 4-6 record. Defending champion Dart Killester still keeps top position with two games lost. They share it with UL Eagles. Belfast Star are looking forward to face Ulster Elks (#5) on the road in the next round. Dart Killester will play against Neptune (#3) in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very close game took place in Dublin between UL Eagles and DCU Saints. First ranked UL Eagles (10-2) got a very close victory on the road over their biggest opponent DCU Saints (6-7). UL Eagles managed to escape with a 2-point win 80-78 in the game for the first place. American power forward Cameron Mitchell (201-88, college: Willamette, agency: N.E.T.) nailed a double-double by scoring 23 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and Scott Kinevane accounted for 18 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Latvian center Martins Provizors (202-87) came up with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for DCU Saints in the defeat. UL Eagles has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-2 record, which they share with Killester. DCU Saints at the other side keep the second position with seven games lost. They share it with UCD Marian. UL Eagles will play against Belfast Star (#4) on the road in the next round. DCU Saints will play against the league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Cork. Second ranked host UCC Demons (8-3) smashed 4th placed Moycullen (1-12) 91-55. UCC Demons has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 8-3 record having just three points less than leader UL Eagles. Moycullen lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with 12 games lost. UCC Demons will meet league's second-placed DCU Saints in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play against UCD Marian in Dublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 13 Ulster Elks were destroyed by UCD Marian on the opponent's court 94-72.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 24 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists by James Crowder of UCD Marian.

UCC Demons - Moycullen 91-55

The game between Top Four teams took place in Cork. Second ranked host UCC Demons (8-3) smashed 4th placed Moycullen (1-12) 91-55. UCC Demons has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 8-3 record having just three points less than leader UL Eagles. Moycullen lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with 12 games lost. UCC Demons will meet league's second-placed DCU Saints in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play against UCD Marian in Dublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 107968


DCU Saints - UL Eagles 78-80

A very close game took place in Dublin between UL Eagles and DCU Saints. First ranked UL Eagles (10-2) got a very close victory on the road over their biggest opponent DCU Saints (6-7). UL Eagles managed to escape with a 2-point win 80-78 in the game for the first place. UL Eagles made 16-of-18 charity shots (88.9 percent) during the game. American power forward Cameron Mitchell (201-88, college: Willamette, agency: N.E.T.) nailed a double-double by scoring 23 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and the former international guard Scott Kinevane (175-87) accounted for 18 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Latvian center Martins Provizors (202-87) came up with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and American forward Pat Crean (193, college: Springfield) added 15 points and 12 rebounds respectively for DCU Saints in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. UL Eagles has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-2 record, which they share with Killester. DCU Saints at the other side keep the second position with seven games lost. They share it with UCD Marian. UL Eagles will play against Belfast Star (#4) on the road in the next round. DCU Saints will play against the league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
UL Eagles: C.Mitchell 23+14reb+4ast, S.Kinevane 18+7reb+8ast, S.King 12+2reb+2ast, C.White 11+12reb+2ast, R.Lynch 8+3reb, M.Hall 8+2reb+3ast
DCU Saints: M.Provizors 20+13reb+2ast, E.Darling 15+7reb+1ast, P.Crean 15+12reb, E.Donnelly 11+2reb+4ast, K.Lacey 7+1reb, J.Donnelly 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 107969


UCD Marian - Ulster Elks 94-72

Rather expected game in Dublin where 5th ranked Ulster Elks (2-10) were crushed by third ranked UCD Marian (6-7) 94-72 on Saturday. UCD Marian outrebounded Ulster Elks 36-23 including 28 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists. American forward James Crowder (201-86, college: Pfeiffer, agency: Agency No 10) fired a triple-double by scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists for the winners. Guard Conor Meany (185-86) chipped in 15 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Five UCD Marian players scored in double figures. Benjamin De La Cruz produced a double-double by scoring 27 points and 11 rebounds and swingman Kevin Foley (193-83) added 27 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for lost side. UCD Marian moved-up to second place, which they share with DCU Saints. Loser Ulster Elks keep the fifth position with ten games lost. UCD Marian will meet Moycullen (#4) on the road in the next round. Ulster Elks will play against Belfast Star and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
UCD Marian: J.Crowder 24+12reb+10ast, B.Glover 17+10reb+1ast, C.Meany 15+6reb+8ast, N.Meany 14+4reb+2ast, M.Higgins 10+2reb+1ast, D.James 7+5ast
Ulster Elks: K.Foley 27+6reb+4ast, B.De La Cruz 27+11reb+2ast, P.McGaharan 8+3reb+3ast, C.O'Dornan 6+1ast, G.Connolly 2+1reb+2ast, L.Conor 0+1ast
gschID: 107966


Killester - Belfast Star 67-75

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of top-ranked Dart Killester (10-2) in Dublin on Saturday night. Hosts were defeated by fourth ranked Belfast Star (4-6) 75-67. Belfast Star forced 19 Dart Killester turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Dart Killester helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Clayton Longmire (201-84, college: St.Rose (NY)) stepped up and scored 39 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners and naturalized British guard Stephen Dawson (190-80) chipped in 8 points and 4 assists. At the losing side naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) responded with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds and the former international guard Issac Westbrooks (190-85) scored 22 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Belfast Star maintains fourth place with 4-6 record. Defending champion Dart Killester still keeps top position with two games lost. They share it with UL Eagles. Belfast Star are looking forward to face Ulster Elks (#5) on the road in the next round. Dart Killester will play against Neptune (#3) in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Belfast Star: C.Longmire 39+9reb, F.Toner 10+3reb, S.Dawson 8+1reb+4ast, M.McKillop 5+5reb+1ast, C.McVeigh 5+1reb+4ast, M.Jackson 4+3reb+1ast
Killester: I.Westbrooks 22+3reb+2ast, J.Turner 13+11reb+3ast, P.Madsen 8, J.Behan 6+2reb+1ast, A.Casey 4+1reb, M.Goj 4+1reb
gschID: 107967




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


Ironi Ashkelon inks Jonathan Gibson - by Ofer Shamur
Ironi Ashkelon sign the American combo Guard Jonathan Gibson (183-G-88, college: N.Mexico St.).
The 23-year-old guard started to play this year in Turkey, for Oyak Renault Bursa, averaging 18.1 points and 3.3 assists per game.
The Southern Israeli club decided to sign the player, as Pickett Tim (193-G/F-81, college: Florida St.) and Gabe Pruitt (193-G-86, college: USC) have released, and the team needs to strengthen its roster.
Gibson might participate on Ashkelon's next game, on Monday against Jerusalem.



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


Saso Filipovski is the new Head Coach of Virtus Roma - by Antonello Varallo
The 37 years old coach Saso Filipovski has been named as new head coach of Lottomatica Roma after Matteo Boniciolli has been fired.
Filipovski began his career as coach assistant of Olimpija Lubiana, that was also his first team as head coach.
Then, he moved to Turow Zgorzelec (Poland - DBL), (he was Polish League Coach of the Year -07) leaving the team after 2 and 1 half seasons, and he joined Lokomotiv Rostov (Russia A- Superleague), where he coached until Nov.'10. During this season, he has been coach assistant of CSKA Moskow (Russia -PBL).

Montepaschi loses McCalebb indefinitely - by Eurobasket News
Montepaschi Sienas All-Euroleague point guard Bo Lester McCalebb (183-G-85, college: New Orleans) will miss the start of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 with a broken toe, the club revealed on Tuesday. McCalebb will miss several weeks after suffering the injury during Sundays Italian League game against Dinamo Sassari. Further examination confirmed that McCalebb has a broken bone in the fifth metatarsus of his left foot. Montepaschi and the player have yet to decide confirm if he will undergo surgery and how much time he will be sidelined, but even in a best-case scenario McCalebb is not expected to rejoin the team by the start of the Top 16 and he may miss the Italian Cup final eight early next month, too. In his first season with the perennial Italian League champs, McCalebb was among the Euroleagues top five in scoring (15.5 ppg.), index ranking (18.1 ppg.) and steals (2.4 spg.), while leading his team to an 8-2 record and first place in Group C.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Lottomatica Roma and Matteo Boniciolli agree to part ways - by Eurobasket News
Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) is no longer a Head Coach of Lottomatica Roma. Two sides agreed to terminate the contract yesterday. Assistant coach Drasko Prodanovic (agency: Interperformances ) will coach the team on an interim basis with a new head coach expected to be named soon.

'I would like to thank team president Toti for giving me the opportunity to coach a club as important as Roma,' said Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ). 'I wish good luck to the team and the club. I am sure that Virtus will bounce back from this difficult period.'

'After 25 years of friendship and cooperation with Boniciolli, I am very sorry,' Bogdan Tanjevic said. 'But it is a decision we made together after the game in Bologna. This does not detract from our friendship. Matteo has done great things in his career and with the teams he has coached he has always done well, often making miracles, like winning the Italian Cup with Avellino. We reached the Euroleague Top 16, which was an important milestone for us and for this reason in particular he should be thanked. Unfortunately for a number of causes, including injuries, the team has not done as well in the Italian League, so we took this painful decision, together with Matteo and with the club.' (Courtesy of Euroleague)

Matteo Boniciolli (agency: Beo Basket ) took over Lottomatica Roma in December of 2009. This season they registered 5-5 record in Euroleague and booked a spot for Top 16, while in Italian league Roma had just six wins in 14 games. The latest defeat against CS Bologna was the crucial one and both sides agreed to terminate the deal signed year and a half ago.

*****************************************************
  JAPAN   


Standings - BJ League
BJ Standings
Eastern
 1. Hamamatsu P. 22-2 
 2. Sendai 89ers 14-8 
 3. Niigata Albirex 11-11 
 4. Saitama Bron. 9-15 
 5. Tokyo Apache 8-8 
 6. Akita 8-16 
 7. Toyama Grouses 7-15 
Western
 1. Osaka Evessa 17-7 
 2. Shiga Lakestars 15-9 
 3. Fukuoka Rizing 15-11 
 4. Okinawa GK 14-10 
 5. Kyoto Hannaryz 12-12 
 6. Oita H.Devils 12-14 
 7. Shimane 9-15 
 8. Miyazaki 7-17 
 9. Takamatsu FA 6-16 


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


D1 Round 2: Al Kuwait keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Second Stage in D1.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Al Kuwait as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Al Kuwait edged bottom-ranked Al Jahraa in Kuwait City 86-84. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Al Qadsia and Al Sahel. Al Jahraa at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Al Arabi and Kazma. Al Jahraa will play next round against Kazma trying to get back on the winning streak. Al Kuwait will try to continue on its current victory against third ranked Al Sahel in Abu Halifa.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Kuwait City: Al Qadsia (#1) and Kazma (#5). Al Qadsia (2-0) won against visiting Kazma (0-2) 76-71. Al Qadsia maintains first position with 2-0 record, which they share with Al Kuwait and Al Sahel. Kazma at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Al Jahraa and Al Arabi. Al Qadsia's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Kuwait City to the arena Al Arabi.
An exciting game was played in Abu Halifa. Top-ranked Al Sahel faced 4th ranked Al Arabi. Host Al Sahel (2-0) defeated guests from Kuwait City (0-2) 70-62. Al Sahel keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Al Qadsia and Al Kuwait. Loser Al Arabi still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Al Jahraa and Kazma. Al Sahel will meet at home league's leader Al Kuwait in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Al Arabi's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Kuwait City Al Qadsia.


Al Sahel - Al Arabi 70-62

An exciting game was played in Abu Halifa. Top-ranked Al Sahel faced 4th ranked Al Arabi. Host Al Sahel (2-0) defeated guests from Kuwait City (0-2) 70-62. Al Sahel keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Al Qadsia and Al Kuwait. Loser Al Arabi still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Al Jahraa and Kazma. Al Sahel will meet at home league's leader Al Kuwait in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Al Arabi's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Kuwait City Al Qadsia.
gschID: 120175


Al Kuwait - Al Jahraa 86-84

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Al Kuwait as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Al Kuwait edged bottom-ranked Al Jahraa in Kuwait City 86-84. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Al Qadsia and Al Sahel. Al Jahraa at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Al Arabi and Kazma. Al Jahraa will play next round against Kazma trying to get back on the winning streak. Al Kuwait will try to continue on its current victory against third ranked Al Sahel in Abu Halifa.
gschID: 120176


Al Qadsia - Kazma 76-71

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Kuwait City: Al Qadsia (#1) and Kazma (#5). Al Qadsia (2-0) won against visiting Kazma (0-2) 76-71. Al Qadsia maintains first position with 2-0 record, which they share with Al Kuwait and Al Sahel. Kazma at the other side still closes the standings with two games lost. They share the position with Al Jahraa and Al Arabi. Al Qadsia's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Kuwait City to the arena Al Arabi.
gschID: 120177




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


Latvian U-18 national team wins Baltic Sea Basketball Cup, Janis Berzins MVP - by Arturs Butans

The Baltic Sea Basketball Cup tournament was held in Tallinn in January 3-5 gathering U-18 National teams of Latvia, Estonia, Finland and Sweden. Latvian national team won all three games (Latvia Finland 71:65, Latvia Sweden 78:66, Latvia Estonia 83:76) that resulted in a triumph of the tournament.

The 17 year old and 200cm tall Latvian national team leader Janis Berzins (200-G/F-93) was nominated the most valuable player (MVP) of the tournament playing on average 27 minutes and scoring 16,3 points (the best indicator in tournament) and 5,7 rebounds.

Janis Berzins (200-G/F-93)' comment about the tournament: 'I'm truly happy that after three years' break the Latvian national team took hold of the Baltic Sea cup. I want to thank all the team-mates because the team effort is that made this happen. Team results are more important to me than individual titles. The Coach Peteris Ozolins really motivated the team and gained the maximum out of players. Now we just have to continue working hard so that we can show even better performance in summer when the U-18 European Championship takes place.'

Link to the interview in Eurobasket.com:
http://www.eurobasket.com/Latvia/basketball.asp?NewsID=210275

Oritseweyinmi Efejuku strengthens Ventspils - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils landed Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence). The 24-year-old guard is coming back to Latvia. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku played for Barons Riga last season. He tallied 18.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.6 steals per game in LBL. This season the guard started in Czech Republic. He notched 9.5 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists per Euroleague game for Nymburk. In Adriatic League his stats read 3.4 points and 1.2 boards per appearance. In November Oritseweyinmi Efejuku signed a deal with Ferro-ZNTU in Ukraine. The guard appeared in 12 games tallying 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.3 assists. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku is the Jamaican National Team player. He helped Jamaica conquer CBC Championship crown in 2009. Efejuku notched 20.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game at the tournament.


Standings - LBAL
LBL D2 Standings
 1. BS Ogre 9-2 
 2. Jurmala 9-2 
 3. Ventspils Aug. 8-3 
 4. Saldus 8-4 
 5. ASK/Buki 7-4 
 6. DSN Riga 6-5 
 7. Zemgale/Jun. 6-5 
 8. BS Daugava 5-6 
 9. Liepaja-2 4-7 
 10. Barons/Ridzene 2-9 
 11. Livani 1-9 
 12. VEF Kadeti 1-10 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mareks JUREVICUS
  Tezenis Verona
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Jurevicus, Liepaja22.1 
 2. Laksa, VEF Riga jrs16.9 
 3. Veselovs, Valmiera16.5 
 4. Wilson, Zemgale16.1 
 5. Bergmanis, Zemgale16.1 
 6. Lowe, Barons16.0 
 7. Cipruss, Valmiera15.6 
 8. Bertans, VEF R.15.5 
 9. Nelyubov, VEF R.15.3 
 10. Stimac, Ventspils15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Avila
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Cipruss, Valmiera10.4 
 2. Mednis, Turiba8.2 
 3. Aleksejevs, Liepaja7.9 
 4. Stimac, Ventspils7.7 
 5. Berzins, VEF R.7.5 
 6. Grafs, VEF Riga jrs7.3 
 7. Wilson, Zemgale7.2 
 8. Selakovs, VEF R.6.7 
 9. Veselovs, Valmiera6.6 
 10. Rozitis, Zemgale6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Dairis BERTANS
  VEF Riga
  (192-G/F-89)
  Avg: 5
 1. Bertans, VEF R.5.0 
 2. Jurevicus, Liepaja4.9 
 3. Strelnieks, Ventspils4.7 
 4. Vaikulis, Liepaja4.2 
 5. Mason, Ventspils4.0 
 6. Sirsnins, Barons3.8 
 7. Gailitis, VEF R.3.8 
 8. Bergmanis, Zemgale3.7 
 9. Feldmanis, Barons3.4 
 10. Piternieks, LU3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Mareks JUREVICUS
  Tezenis Verona
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Jurevicus, Liepaja2.6 
 2. Lowe, Barons2.4 
 3. Mitchell, Liepaja2.3 
 4. Gailitis, VEF R.2.2 
 5. Slisans, LU2.1 
 6. Strelnieks, Ventspils2.0 
 7. Bertans, VEF R.1.9 
 8. Cavars, Barons1.9 
 9. Berzins, VEF R.1.7 
 10. Vitols, Barons1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Kaspars BERZINS
  VEF Riga
  (213-F/C-85)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Berzins, VEF R.3.3 
 2. Rozitis, Zemgale2.3 
 3. Cipruss, Valmiera1.6 
 4. Brunins, Zemgale1.2 
 5. Beard, Liepaja1.2 
 6. Bertans, Barons1.0 
 7. Skirmants, Barons1.0 
 8. Aleksejevs, Liepaja0.8 
 9. Selakovs, VEF R.0.7 
 10. Jurevicus, Liepaja0.6 


*****************************************************
  LIBYA   


Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Ahli Benghazi 6-1 
 2. Ahli Tripoli 6-1 
 3. Nasr 6-2 
 4. Ittihad 6-2 
 5. Morog 4-4 
 6. Madina 3-5 
 7. Hilal 3-5 
 8. Shabab 2-5 
 9. Yarmook 1-6 
 10. Jazeera 1-7 


D1 Round 8: Morog defeats Nasr in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
D1 round 8 most interesting game took place in Benghazi (derby !!!) between Morog and Nasr. Sixth ranked Morog (4-4) got a very close victory on the road over 3rd ranked Nasr (6-2). Morog managed to escape with a 1-point win 50-49 on Sunday evening. Morog moved-up to fifth place. Nasr at the other side keeps the third position with two games lost. They share it with Ittihad. Morog are looking forward to face league's second-placed Ahli Tripoli at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Nasr will play against Jazeera in Zwara and is hoping to win this game.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Tripoli: Ittihad (#4) and Madina (#7). Madina was smashed at home by 43 points 68-111 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. Ittihad (6-2) moved-up to third place, which they share with Nasr. Madina at the other side dropped to the sixth position with five games lost. They share it with Hilal. Ittihad's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Tripoli to the arena Yarmook.
D1 top team - Ahli Benghazi (6-1) managed to deliver another win on Thursday. This time they beat ninth ranked Yarmook (1-6) 60-51. Ahli Benghazi have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 6-1 record, which they share with Ahli Tripoli. Yarmook lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with six games lost. Ahli Benghazi's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Benghazi to the arena Hilal.

In the last two games of round 8 Hilal was destroyed by Ahli Tripoli on the opponent's court 74-54. Shabab outscored Jazeera in a home game 71-45.

Nasr - Morog 49-50

D1 round 8 most interesting game took place in Benghazi (derby !!!) between Morog and Nasr. Sixth ranked Morog (4-4) got a very close victory on the road over 3rd ranked Nasr (6-2). Morog managed to escape with a 1-point win 50-49 on Sunday evening. Morog moved-up to fifth place. Nasr at the other side keeps the third position with two games lost. They share it with Ittihad. Morog are looking forward to face league's second-placed Ahli Tripoli at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Nasr will play against Jazeera in Zwara and is hoping to win this game.
gschID: 116399


Madina - Ittihad 68-111

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Tripoli: Ittihad (#4) and Madina (#7). Madina was smashed at home by 43 points 68-111 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. Ittihad (6-2) moved-up to third place, which they share with Nasr. Madina at the other side dropped to the sixth position with five games lost. They share it with Hilal. Ittihad's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Tripoli to the arena Yarmook.
gschID: 116400


Ahli Benghazi - Yarmook 60-51

D1 top team - Ahli Benghazi (6-1) managed to deliver another win on Thursday. This time they beat ninth ranked Yarmook (1-6) 60-51. Ahli Benghazi have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 6-1 record, which they share with Ahli Tripoli. Yarmook lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with six games lost. Ahli Benghazi's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Benghazi to the arena Hilal.
gschID: 116396


Ahli Tripoli - Hilal 74-54

Rather expected game when 5th ranked Hilal (3-5) was crushed on the road by second ranked Ahli Tripoli (6-1) 74-54 on Saturday. Ahli Tripoli keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Ahli Benghazi. Loser Hilal dropped to the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Madina. Ahli Tripoli will meet Morog (#5) in the next round. Hilal's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Benghazi Ahli Benghazi.
gschID: 116397


Shabab - Jazeera 71-45

Rather predictable result in Tripoli where eighth ranked Shabab (2-5) smashed bottom-ranked Jazeera (1-7) 71-45 on Sunday. Shabab maintains eighth position with 2-5 record. Jazeera lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with seven games lost. Shabab's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Tripoli to the arena Madina.
gschID: 116398




*****************************************************
  LIGA AMERICAS   


Standings
Liga Americas Standings
Group A
 1. Regatas C. 3-0 
 2. Penarol 2-1 
 3. Espartanos 1-2 
 4. Toros 0-3 
Group B
 1. Halc.Xalapa 3-0 
 2. BRB/Brasilia 2-1 
 3. Defensor 1-2 
 4. Caneros 0-3 
Group C
 1. Flamengo 1-0 
 2. Mavort 1-0 
 3. Dep.Espanol 0-1 
 4. Quimsa 0-1 
Group D
 1. Capitanes 0-0 
 2. Cocodrilos 0-0 
 3. Halc.Rojos 0-0 
 4. Sionista 0-0 


*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA   


Standings - LKL
LKL Standings
 1. Zalgiris 11-0 
 2. Lietuvos Rytas 10-1 
 3. Rudupis 9-3 
 4. Siauliai 7-4 
 5. Techasas 7-5 
 6. Juventus 6-6 
 7. Nevezis 5-6 
 8. Naglis-Adakris 5-7 
 9. Aiscai Kaunas 5-8 
 10. Neptunas 4-7 
 11. Sakalai 4-8 
 12. Perlas 3-9 
 13. Alytus Alita 0-12 


Elias Zouros would like to work with Zalgiris - by Aurimas Rimselis
Greek coach Elias Zouros (agency: Alti Sport ) received an offer to coach B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas team.
This season he did not work anywhere, but he was in USA to get experience in NBA.
While Rimantas Grigas with team is having a camp in Druskininkai, Elias Zouros (agency: Alti Sport ) was in Kaunas and met
club managers, to talk about opportunity become coach of Zalgiris.
'We discussed about the possibility. Nothing exceptional. Now we're waiting, talking - so far nothing has happened yet' - yesterday said E. Zouros.
Zouros said that he is interested to become coach of Zalgiris.
'Every coach would like to work in a great team like Zalgiris' - Greek said. - 'I can not say anything more, in current situation. This may affect both sides. '
'I'm not a dictator, but the coach is coach. Basketball players can not always do what they want. I'm Serious'

Vilmantas Dilys left Naglis-Adakris - by Aurimas Rimselis
One of the best-performing players in the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL) Vilmantas Dilys (208-F-87) left Naglis-Adakris Palangos club. Vilmantas Dilys should join Perlas Vilnius team with long term contract. V. Dilys had an opportunity to terminate the contract with Naglis-Adakris Palangos, so he made desicion after half LKL season. Forward season is spends an average of 30 minutes, collects 16.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and makes 2.1 assists. Naglis-Adakris Palangos won 5 of 12 LKL games and stands in 8th position in LKL.







*****************************************************
  NAIA   


Gold Rush fall to 13th place in NAIA Division I Top 25 - by Emiliano
Two losses in six games dropped Xavier (LA) four spots to 13th in the NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 announced Monday. It's the fourth poll of 2010-11, the third of the regular season and the first since Dec. 13. The Gold Rush were 20th in the preseason, then climbed to 10th and ninth in consecutive December rankings. After a 13-0 start the first for the Gold Rush since the 1940-41 season Xavier lost 61-58 to Dakota Wesleyan in the Miami Gardens (Fla.) Classic on Dec. 30. Nine days later, Xavier lost 66-55 at Belhaven. But Xavier also had a pair of notable victories between polls 76-66 on Dec. 18 at William Carey, which entered that game with five victories against ranked teams, and 72-58 two days later at Southern, the first XU regular-season victory against an NCAA Division I opponent since 2000. Xavier (15-2) completed a season sweep of William Carey with a 53-50 victory Monday at The Barn. The Rush will continue a five-game home stand with 7 p.m. matchups against Loyola on Saturday and Spring Hill next Monday. NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 (first-place votes in parentheses records through Sunday, Jan. 9) Rank Team Record Points Last 1 LSU-Shreveport (11) 13-0 312 2 2 Robert Morris (Chicago) 13-1 295 1 3 Concordia (Calif.) (1) 14-2 280 5 4 Lindenwood 14-1 269 14 5 Mountain State 12-2 264 8 6 Martin Methodist 13-0 261 11 7 Texas Wesleyan 13-1 259 4 8 St. Catharine 11-2 249 15 9 Azusa Pacific 14-2 234 10 10 Oklahoma Baptist 12-3 230 7 11 Georgetown (Ky.) 15-2 206 3 12 Westminster (Utah) 13-3 197 6 13 Xavier 14-2 194 9 14 Southern Nazarene 12-3 180 12 15 Shorter 13-2 167 13 16 Biola 15-1 164 18 17 Union (Tenn.) 12-4 143 16 18 Park 10-4 132 19 19 William Jewell 13-2 131 17 20 Emmanuel 16-1 120 24 21 Lewis-Clark State 12-3 102 RV 22 Lindsey Wilson 13-3 98 RV 23 Tougaloo 12-3 81 RV 24 Northwestern Oklahoma State 11-5 74 NR 25 Lee (Tenn.) 12-4
69 RV Others receiving votes: Southern Polytechnic 53, St. Francis (Ill.) 47, John Brown 32, Montana State-Northern 28, McKendree 24, Freed-Hardeman 19, Pikeville 13, Columbia (Mo.) 11, Evangel 9, Point Loma Nazarene 7, Life 5, Saint Xavier 4, William Carey 3, Texas College 1, Benedictine (Kan.) 1, Bethel (Tenn.) 1, Fresno Pacific 1, Lubbock Christian 1.


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


Lakers forward Matt Barnes undergoes right knee surgery - by Eurobasket News
Los Angeles Lakers forward Matt Barnes (6'7''-F-80, college: UCLA) has undergone surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus in his right knee.

The team said the surgery was done Tuesday by Lakers physician Steve Lombardo at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles.

Barnes is expected to be out about eight weeks. He was injured Jan. 7 in a game against New Orleans.

He has averaged 7.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 20.8 minutes while playing 37 games this season.

Courtesy of www.tsn.ca

Nuggets threaten Nets with Carmelo trade to Knicks - by Eurobasket News
Not only could the Nets lose out on Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse), if they're not careful, he could wind up with the Knicks, Yahoo! Sports reports.

According to the report, 'The Denver Nuggets delivered a stern warning to the New Jersey Nets: Unless the public nature of these trade discussions becomes private, be warned that we will send Anthony to the New York Knicks.'

A three-team, 14-player trade involving the Nets, Nuggets and Pistons including Anthony, Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton was believed to be close to completion Sunday, but Denver reportedly keeps tweaking the deal.

The process is dragging and the optimism that pervaded the Nets organization has taken a hit, though there is still a belief the deal can get done, despite growing annoyance on both sides, especially with the public posture the talks have assumed.

NBA sources said nothing was imminent, and Nets coach Avery Johnson said he expected his team to remain the same during a four-game west-coast trip that ends next week.

One source who had been optimistic sounded far more doubtful Monday. Reports said the Nuggets were insistent on reworking the framework of players involved, wanting to shed salary by shipping out Al Harrington and his $26 million over four years. Denver also seeks an additional first-round pick.

It is believed the Knicks do not have enough assets to make a deal attractive to the Nuggets.

The Yahoo! report says Knicks president Donnie Walsh has asked Nuggets GM Masai Ujiri for a list of what it would take to complete a deal, 'whether it be draft picks or specific players from other teams, (but) sources said Ujiri has been unresponsive.'

Another plot twist came Monday night with several reports that the Rockets, with chips such as Yao Ming's $17.7 million expiring contract and several first-round picks, have entered the scene for the star forward.

The Nets have been confident all along that if they can get a deal in place, Anthony would agree to a three-year, $65 million contract extension, which the Nuggets have offered since June.

In Denver, Anthony reiterated to reporters that he did not expect a trade to happen this week and said he expects to play tonight against the Suns.

'That's just my feeling,' said Anthony, who is believed to prefer the Knicks over any other team. 'I don't think so. I don't want to elaborate on that anymore. That's just my personal feeling. ... It could go on to the [Feb. 24] trade deadline.'

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Tuesday's games (6) review - by Eurobasket News
LA Lakers - Cleveland C. 112-57
The Los Angeles Lakers humiliated the Cleveland Cavaliers while sending them to their 11th straight loss, rolling to a 112-57 victory on Tuesday night in their best defensive performance in the shot clock era. Ron Artest (6'7''-G-79, college: St.John's) and Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) each scored 15 points, while Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) had 13 points and 14 rebounds. Kobe Bryant, Lamar Odom and Shannon Brown also scored 13 points for the defending NBA champion Lakers, who led the league's worst team by 32 points at halftime on their way to winning their fifth in a row. Reserves Alonzo Gee scored 12 points and Ramon Sessions 10. Cleveland's point total was a record low by a Lakers opponent. The Cavs shot 30 percent, were outscored 52-28 in the paint and committed 19 turnovers in losing for the 21st time in their last 22 games. They fell to 8-30 overall, 3-18 on the road and 1-5 against the Western Conference. Brown hit a 3-pointer from just inside halfcourt to end the third quarter and give Los Angeles a 92-41 lead, the first time an NBA team has led by that many after three since Nov. 8, 2001, when Chicago was ahead of Minnesota. Since LeBron James' offseason departure, the Cavaliers have gone from being a perennial playoff team that went 7-3 against the Lakers in their previous 10 meetings to a team struggling with injuries and mounting losses. *Courtesy of www.wsfa.com

Minnesota T. - San Antonio S. 96-107
Referee Ken Mauer certainly won't be accused of being biased toward his hometown Minnesota Timberwolves anytime soon. Mauer, a cousin of Twins superstar Joe Mauer and a St. Paul native, whistled the Wolves for five technical fouls in a dizzying 10 seconds of the third quarter, allowing the calm and collected San Antonio Spurs to take control of another head-scratchingly tight game between the best team in the NBA and one of the worst. Manu Ginobili had 19 points, making all five of those technical free throws, and the Spurs beat the Timberwolves 107-96 on Tuesday night. ''I've never seen that before,'' said Wolves forward Kevin Love, who picked up the final technical of the spree. ''Five in a row, that had to be a first. That was crazy.'' Richard Jefferson (6'6''-F/G-80, college: Arizona) scored 17 and Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) had 12 points and 13 assists for the Spurs, who beat the Timberwolves for the 16th straight time. Ginobili also had nine rebounds and six assists. Love had 20 points and 20 rebounds for the Timberwolves, his sixth 20-20 game of the season. Orlando's Dwight Howard led the league with three 20-20 games all of last season. But again, it wasn't enough for the Wolves (9-30), who have lost five in a row and came unglued during Mauer's five-technical binge in the third. *Courtesy of www.comcast.com

Denver N. - Phoenix Suns 132-98
Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) scored a career-high 31 points and Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) followed up one of his worst shooting performances with a 28-point effort, helping the Denver Nuggets snap a three-game skid with a 132-98 rout of the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night. Anthony, the subject of trade talks all season, was greeted early by the crowd with a smattering of boos but quickly reversed the mood with his hustle and hanging jumpers. He also grabbed 10 rebounds. That was a sharp contrast to Sunday night, when Anthony scored just eight points and drew jeers like he'd never heard before at Pepsi Center. Ty Lawson scored 16 points and J.R. Smith added 15 to help the Nuggets avoid their first four-game losing streak in nearly four years. They're the only NBA team in that time that hasn't dropped four in a row. Steve Nash hit his first four shots, but didn't make another and spent the fourth quarter on the bench. He finished with 15 points. Vince Carter also chipped in 15. Denver native Chauncey Billups, who finished with seven assists, has been dragged into the most recent trade speculation, a proposed three-team deal involving Detroit and New Jersey and at least 13 players. *COurtesy of www.charlotteobserver.com

Portland TB - New York K. 86-100
Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) had 23 points and eight rebounds, Raymond Felton (6'5''-G-84, college: N.Carolina) added 17 points and 14 assists, and the New York Knicks beat the Portland Trail Blazers 100-86 on Tuesday night. Ronny Turiaf had a season-high 19 points and tied a season best with 10 rebounds for the Knicks, who improved to 12-8 on the road, surpassing their road win total from last season. Wilson Chandler added 17 points. Stoudemire has scored at least 20 points in 22 straight games. LaMarcus Aldridge had 19 points and 10 rebounds for the Blazers. Rudy Fernandez scored 12 of his 18 in the first half for Portland, while Andre Miller had 14 points and Nicolas Batum added 13. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Philadelph.76 - Indiana P. 103-111
The visiting locker room was boisterous and loud following the game. And why not? For the first time since Nov. 30, the Indiana Pacers were able to celebrate a road victory. Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) scored 27 points, Darren Collison (6'0''-G-87, college: UCLA) added 21 points and 13 assists, and the Pacers snapped a nine-game road losing streak with a 111-103 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night. Indiana hadn't won a road game since a 107-98 victory at Sacramento on Nov. 30. 'It was a breath of fresh air for us, particularly on the road,' Granger said. 'We shot the ball well and moved the ball well. It was a great win for us.' Mike Dunleavy contributed 20 points while Tyler Hansbrough had 12 points and nine rebounds for the Pacers, who had dropped three straight and 10 of 13. 'It was really a terrific win,' Pacers coach Jim O'Brien said. 'We played like we practiced. We made big shots when we needed to make them.' Jrue Holiday led the Sixers with 19 points and Elton Brand added 18. Marreese Speights and Evan Turner each had 14, while Jodie Meeks had 13, and Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams 12 apiece. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Washington W. - Sacramento K. 136-133 OT
Nick Young (6'6''-G/F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: USC) scored a career-high 43 points, and Kirk Hinrich (6'3''-G-81, college: Kansas) had six in overtime as the Washington Wizards survived a last-minute regulation meltdown to beat the Sacramento Kings 136-133 Tuesday night. The Wizards blew a six-point lead in the final 14 seconds of the fourth quarter - and nearly blew a five-point lead in the final half-minute of overtime - and finished the game without starters John Wall and Andray Blatche before finally earning a split against a fellow last-place team from across the country. Young went 14 for 22 from the field, including 7 for 10 from 3-point range for the Wizards, who are 10-8 at home but 0-18 on the road. Six Washington players scored in double figures in the team's highest-scoring output of the season, with Blatche tallying 16 points and 13 rebounds and Wall finishing with 22 points, nine assists and six rebounds. Blatche sprained his right shoulder wrestling for the ball and walked to the locker room in the final minute of regulation and is day-to-day. Wall came down with cramps while trying to drive past former Kentucky roommate DeMarcus Cousins with 2:49 left in overtime and did not return. Beno Udrih and Francisco Garcia scored 26 points apiece - a season high for Garcia - and Carl Landry had a season-high 23 for the Kings, who have lost 11 straight on the road and six in a row at the Verizon Center. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

<<>><<>>

Bucks-Hawks game in Atlanta postponed by winter storm, rescheduled for March 15 - by Eurobasket News
Tuesday nights game between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Atlanta Hawks has been postponed due to the winter storm that has locked down much of north Georgia.

The game has been rescheduled for March 15 at Philips Arena.

Several roads are closed in the Atlanta area due to the buildup of snow and ice. The storm hit the region Sunday night.

Hawks spokesman Arthur Triche said one concern for Tuesday night was having enough staff at Philips Arena to work the game.

The Bucks arrived in Atlanta on Monday.

Each teams new challenge is leaving Atlanta for games on Wednesday. The Hawks are scheduled to play at Toronto and Milwaukee has a home game against San Antonio.

Courtesy of www.thespec.com

Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 28-9 
 2. New York K. 22-15 
 3. Philadelph.76 15-23 
 4. Toronto R. 13-24 
 5. New Jersey N. 10-27 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 25-12 
 2. Indiana P. 15-20 
 3. Milwaukee B. 14-21 
 4. Detroit P. 12-25 
 5. Cleveland C. 8-30 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 30-9 
 2. Orlando M. 25-12 
 3. Atlanta H. 25-14 
 4. Charlotte B. 14-21 
 5. Washington W. 10-26 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Utah Jazz 25-13 
 2. Oklah.City T. 25-13 
 3. Denver N. 21-16 
 4. Portland TB 20-19 
 5. Minnesota T. 9-30 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 28-11 
 2. Phoenix Suns 15-21 
 3. Golde State W. 15-22 
 4. LA Clippers 12-24 
 5. Sacramento K. 8-27 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 32-6 
 2. Dallas M. 26-10 
 3. N.Orleans H. 22-16 
 4. Houston R. 17-21 
 5. Memphis G. 17-21 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28.2
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.28.2 
 2. Stoudemire, New Y.26.2 
 3. James, Miami Heat25.3 
 4. Ellis, Golde S.25.2 
 5. Wade, Miami Heat24.9 
 6. Bryant, LA Lakers24.9 
 7. Rose, Chicago B.24.3 
 8. Nowitzki, Dallas M.24.1 
 9. Anthony, Denver N.23.9 
 10. Gordon, LA Clippers23.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.8
 1. Love, Minnesota T.15.8 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.13.1 
 3. Randolph, Memph.12.8 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.12.6 
 5. Noah, Chicago B.11.7 
 6. Bogut, Milwauke.11.7 
 7. Camby, Portland TB11.5 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers10.9 
 9. Boozer, Chicago B.10.1 
 10. Okafor, N.Orlean.10.0 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 13.4
 1. Rondo, Boston C.13.4 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns10.6 
 3. Paul, N.Orleans H.9.7 
 4. Williams, Utah Jazz9.3 
 5. Felton, New Y.8.8 
 6. Wall, Washington W.8.8 
 7. Kidd, Dallas M.8.7 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.8.1 
 9. Westbrook, Oklah..8.0 
 10. Calderon, Toron.7.9 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.7 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.2.4 
 3. Ellis, Golde S.2.3 
 4. Curry, Golde S.2.0 
 5. Gay, Memphis G.1.9 
 6. Conley, Memphis G.1.9 
 7. Westbrook, Oklah..1.9 
 8. Ginobili, San A.1.9 
 9. Felton, New Y.1.9 
 10. Kidd, Dallas M.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Bogut, Milwauke.2.8 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.5 
 3. Milicic, Minnesota T.2.3 
 4. Howard, Orlando M.2.3 
 5. Stoudemire, New Y.2.3 
 6. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.2 
 7. Jefferson, Utah J.2.0 
 8. Duncan, San A.2.0 
 9. Camby, Portland TB1.9 
 10. Smith, Atlanta H.1.9 


*****************************************************
  NCAA1   


Nicholson of Bonnies Sweeps NetScouts Basketball Atlantic 10 Awards - by Carl Berman
Game Recaps (through games of January 9th): Rhode Island got pulverized by the Florida Gators, 84-59, even though the Rams leading scorer Delroy James scored a game high 23 points. The Rams then lost at home to Xavier by 27 points in a listless effort. Richmond beat Charlotte 71-59 behind a season high 27 points from Justin Harper. Cincinnati destroyed Xavier 66-46 in their annual cross town rivalry. Duquesne went 2-0 this week beating Saint Joseph 75-63 and Houston Baptist 81-64. George Washington (9-5) went 2-0 this week as well beating La Salle 72-67 and Saint Joseph 78-71.

Player of the Week and International Player of the Week: St Bonaventure's Andrew Nicholson (6'9''-F-89) sweeps our weekly honors. The junior power forward from Ontario, Canada leads the conference in points scored averaging 22.4 per game this season. Nicholson (pictured on right) averaged 22.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals this week to lead his team to two victories. He boasted a team high 34 points in a 92-88 triple overtime victory over Charlotte.

Game of the Week: St. Bonaventure hosted the Charlotte 49ers on Saturday night. The Bonnies took a 40-28 halftime lead, led by Andrew Nicholson (6'9''-F-89) who scored a game high 34 points. The 49ers led with 12 seconds left when DaQuan Cook buried two free throws to tie to game at 68. In the first overtime, both teams struggled from the field and the score was tied at 75. The 49ers led twice in the second overtime, but both times Nicholson scored to tie the game. In the third overtime, the Bonnies pulled away from Charlotte by going 9-10 from the free throw line. St. Bonaventure won 92-88 improving the Bonnies to 2-0 in 3OT games this year.

Upcoming Games: The Atlantic 10 has some intriguing matchups this upcoming week. On Wednesday night, the Temple Owls host St. Bonaventure in hopes of improving their conference record to a perfect 3-0. On Thursday night, Rhode Island travels to Richmond to face the 13-4 Spiders where they look to end their two game losing streak. On Saturday night, the 13-4 Dayton Flyers travel to Cincinnati, Ohio where they will take on Xavier, a game which is televised on CBS.

2010-11 Players of the Week

(1/4/11) Jerrell Williams and Juan Fernandez

(12/28/10) Chris Gaston and Joseph Katuka

(12/21/10) Tu Holloway and Juan Fernandez

(12/14/10) Delroy James and Nikola Malesevic

(12/7/10) Damian Saunders and Ogo Adegboye

This article was written by Correspondent Evan Howard and Managing Partner Carl Berman of NetScouts Basketball. Information about NetScouts Basketball and other conference recaps can be found at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.

Washington Rolls: Wildcats' Williams Honored - by Carl Berman
AP Top 25: Washington (#17)

Game Recaps (for the week ending 1/9): Washington remained unbeaten in conference play after defeating Oregon 87-69, and Oregon State 103-72. The Huskies were led by Matthew Bryan-Amaning (18.5 points and 11.5 rebounds) and Isaiah Thomas (19.5 points and 8.5 assists). Arizona also had a good week after defeating California 73-71, and Stanford 67-57, moving them into second place in the Pac-10. The Wildcats were led by Derrick Williams (6'8''-F) (22.5 points and 10.5 rebounds). After a difficult 0-2 start in Pac-10 play, Washington State moved to 2-2 with two much needed wins over Oregon State 84-70, and Oregon 77-63. Klay Thompson led the Cougars averaging 22.5 points and 9 rebounds.

Player of the Week: NetScouts Basketball's Player of the Week is Arizona's Derrick Williams (6'8''-F). The 68 sophomore forward from La Mirada, California helped lead the Wildcats to two big wins last week by averaging 22.5 points and 10.5 rebounds. Williams had an exceptional game against California with 31 points and 12 rebounds.

International Player of the Week: NetScouts Basketballs International Player of the Week is Washington's Matthew Bryan-Amaning.The 69 senior forward from London, England helped the Huskies move to 4-0 in conference play. Bryan-Amaning averaged 18.5 points and 11.5 rebounds.

Game of the Week: Arizona defeated California in a game that was decided by missed free throws. With 33.5 seconds to play, and California down only three, the Golden Bears freshman Allen Crabbe was fouled on a three point attempt, but missed one of the three free throws. Final Score: Arizona 73, California 71.

Upcoming Schedule: The Washington schools (UW, WSU) will travel to the Bay Area to take on California and Stanford. The LA schools (UCLA, USC) will travel north to take on the Oregon schools (UO, OSU). And Arizona will match up against in-state rivals Arizona State.

Related Posts/Players of the Week

(1/4/11) Matthew Bryan-Amaning and Nikola Vucevic

(12/26/10) Jio Fontan and Matthew Bryan-Amaning

(12/19/10) Reeves Nelson and Rihards Kuksiks

(12/12/10) Klay Thompson and Jorge Gutierrez

(12/5/10) Tyler Honeycutt and Nikola Vucevic

(11/30/10) Klay Thompson and Nikola Vucevic

This article was written by Correspondent Kris Carlson and Managing Partner Carl Berman of NetScouts Basketball. Information about NetScouts Basketball and other conference recaps can be followed at www.netscoutsbasketball.com.

Minnesota sticking with Mbakwe - by Eurobasket News
This time, an off-the-court matter for Minnesota hasn't led to the loss of a star player.

The Gophers are sticking with leading scorer and rebounder Trevor Mbakwe (6'8''-F-89) despite his arrest for allegedly violating a restraining order filed against the junior forward.

The university released a statement Tuesday from athletics director Joel Maturi and coach Tubby Smith confirming that Mbakwe is still with the team, describing the action as 'a lapse in judgment'' and announcing no punishments.

'I believe his actions were well intended, but misguided, and we have made the decision not to suspend him after looking into the matter further,'' Smith said in the statement. 'We believe this is the appropriate thing for Trevor and the program at this time. We view this as an educational opportunity for all of our players.''

Smith won't be available for further comment until after Wednesday's practice. The Gophers host eighth-ranked Purdue on Thursday.

St. Paul prosecutor Sara Grewing said her office is reviewing Mbakwe's case and will determine whether to bring formal charges in the next day or two. If the decision is made to prosecute the case, Grewing said, Mbakwe faces a Jan. 20 court date.

Mbakwe was taken to jail on Monday night on a misdemeanor citation and later released with bail after authorities said he sent a message on Facebook to a former girlfriend who had filed the no-harrasment order in August 2009. The school said Mbakwe had not been in contact with the woman since that date.

The university also included in the news release the entire message Mbakwe sent:

'I know we haven't talked in forever and trust me I'm not trying to start any drama with nobody in your life or anything. I just wanted to wish u the best with everything and I hope all has been well with you and your family. I am still disappointed how everything played out and I do wish that in the future we could be cool again. Idk how u r going to take this msg hopefully its not bad but I just wanted to wish u a happy new year and send out a congrats for graduating. I've been well I'm finally playin bball again in everything down in miami finally got taken care of thank god. Well idk if u will respond or not but best wishes for 2011.''

Mbakwe leads the Gophers (12-4, 1-3) with 13.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game.

He transferred to Minnesota before last season, but he was not allowed to play while facing a felony battery charge for allegedly punching a woman in the face in Florida when he played for Miami-Dade Community College.

The case dragged on for a year, and he eventually entered a pretrial program in August to keep the process from continuing, though the agreement was not considered an admission of guilt. Mbakwe blamed the charge on mistaken identity.

Gophers players were unavailable to reporters on Tuesday, but Mbakwe took to Twitter on Tuesday to defend himself shortly before the school announced his playing status would not change.

'Boy oh boy this some crazy stuff. I never thought in a million years that me writing an ex of mine a fb msg would cause all this drama,'' Mbakwe tweeted.

He continued: 'Thanks to every1 who has shown their support to my family and me. I guess some ppl just want their 10 minutes of fame. ... I better be careful though don't want the cops popping up at my door for tweeting now but much love to my support group.''

Mbakwe's Twitter account was taken down soon after his comments.

This is the latest in what has been a long line of distractions for Smith and the Gophers the last two years. Just last week, guard Devoe Joseph decided to leave the school and transfer to Oregon. He was suspended earlier for academic issues among unspecified violations of team rules.

Prized recruit Royce White left the program last year and eventually transferred to Iowa State after pleading guilty to theft and disorderly conduct in an incident at the Mall of America. Mbakwe had to sit out the entire 2009-10 season, and starting point guard Al Nolen was suspended last January and ruled ineligible for the remainder of that season.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Fredette scores 47 in No. 11 BYUs win - by Eurobasket News
Jimmer Fredette (6'2''-G) took some razzing Tuesday night for his missed dunk.

That was his only mistake in a game where he scored 47 points as No. 11 BYU cruised to a 104-79 victory over Utah.

When he starts to shoot from 40 feet out you know hes feeling something, Cougars teammate Jackson Emery said of Fredette, who hit a 40-foot buzzer-beater before halftime and a few other 3s that would have been good down the street where the Utah Jazz play.

You kind of wanted to keep giving him the ball.

Fredette finished 6 of 9 on 3-pointers, 9 of 9 on free throws and 16 of 28 overall for BYU (17-1, 3-0 Mountain West).

The BYU fans who made the 50-mile drive from Provo wanted 50 from the preseason All-America guard, and chanted his name when coach Dave Rose pulled him from the game with 5:44 left.

Rose would reinsert Fredette to stop a short Utah run 90 seconds later, and Fredette added two free throws to finish two points shy of the school-record 49 he scored last season at Arizona.

While Rose insisted he didnt know how many points Fredette had, Fredette did.

Of course. I wont lie to you, Fredette said when asked if he wanted 50. It was Coachs decision. The most important thing is that we won. It was a great night anyway.

The game was BYUs last at Utah as members of the Mountain West Conference. Utah jumps to the Pac-12 next year and the Cougars move to the West Coast Conference.

Tonight was very similar to the game at Arizona, Rose said. (Fredette) still had six assists. He was still sharing the ball. He didnt force a lot of things, but he got himself good looks and converted on them.

The buzzer-beater gave Fredette 32 points in the first half and moved him past BYU great Danny Ainge in career 30-point games with 13. He trails only Michael Smith and Devin Durant, who had 17 apiece to top the Cougar record books.

Ainges 30-year-old steals record would fall at the 12:47 mark of the first half when Emery grabbed the ball from Utah freshman J.J. OBrien then passed ahead to Fredette for a layup. He entered the game with 195 steals and tied with Ainge, who set the mark in 1981.

Thats fantastic. Im happy for him, said Ainge, the Boston Celtics general manager who was taping BYUs game while attending Tuesday nights Boston College-North Carolina State matchup.

Emery had two steals Tuesday and has 197.

It feels good to finally get that, said Emery, who finished with 20 points and hit 5 of 7 3-pointers.

That last one seems to have been the hardest one, Rose said of the steals record. Im happy its over and he wont get asked about it any more.

Utah (7-10, 0-3) came out determined to match BYUs intensity in an attempt to halt a six-game losing streak.

The Utes led 15-10 and 23-19, and tried to push the pace. The Cougars got some stops, then followed with a barrage of 3-pointers.

A 3 by Emery pulled BYU within 23-22, and Fredette hit consecutive shots from beyond the arc for a 28-25 BYU lead. Fredettes three-point play with 5:12 left in the half gave BYU a 38-29 lead.

He hit a 3-pointer from 30 feet for a 43-33 lead, and scored BYUs final 13 points of the half.

I just felt good right from the beginning, said Fredette, who scored 39 points in a win at UNLV last week.

I felt like I was able to use the screen effectively and get into the lane and make some shots. Then the basket got a little bigger, especially in that first half. It was just one of those special nights that you have, that our team had, something well never forget.

BYU has won four straight and eight of the last nine against Utah. The Cougars have won seven straight this season.

Heck of a player, Utah coach Jim Boylen told Fredette afterward.

Will Clyburn (6'7''-G/F-90), who led Utah with 23 points, couldnt argue.

Some of those shots we really couldnt do anything about, he said. Were looking forward to the next game at their place. Were going to get them.

The Utes, who outrebounded BYU 45-30, need to finish stronger.

Clyburn pulled Utah within 63-53 with a layup with 12:26 remaining, and two free throws by Josh Watkins, who had 19 points, cut it to nine points with 11:40 remaining.

But Noah Hartsock hit consecutive 3-pointers to give Utah a 72-57 lead with 10:12 left and the Cougars never looked back.

It feels good, said Fredette, who high-fived fans and hugged family members afterward. Thats what you want to do as a basketball player. You want to kill your opponent.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Green, Michigan State outlast No. 20 Wisky in OT - by Rick Ross
COURTESY OF Sportsillustrated.com/

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) Trailing by nine points late in the second
half against a team that seldom makes mistakes,
Michigan State was showing few signs of pulling out of its season-long funk.

Then Kalin Lucas spoke up.
The guys had their heads down,Lucas said. I said,
Hey, there's a lot of time left. We're going to win this game!
We just have to get stops.

The Spartans finished regulation on a 9-0 run, then outlasted No.
20 Wisconsin in overtime for a 64-61 victory Tuesday night.
Draymond Green scored a career-high 26 points for Michigan State,
and Lucas made three free throws in the final minute of
overtime in what might be the game that turns his team's season around.

The Spartans were ranked No. 2 in the preseason poll
but dropped out of the Top 25 entirely after a
loss to Penn State last weekend. This is the first week
Michigan State (11-5, 3-1 Big Ten) isn't ranked since the final poll of 2006-07.
We talk about having a character check,' coach Tom Izzo said.
I've never seen a bunch of guys get knocked down
more times than we got knocked down, and in every
huddle, they still thought they could win.

Green scored Michigan State's first eight points of overtime,
including a free throw that put the Spartans ahead 61-60 with 1:16 left.
Wisconsin's Jordan Taylor tied it with a
free throw with 59.1 seconds left, but Lucas
drew a foul driving along the baseline and made one
free throw to put Michigan State ahead 62-61 with 30.2 seconds remaining.

Taylor then missed from near the top of the key. Lucas,
who finished with 17 points, added two free throws with 2.2 seconds left,
and Taylor missed a desperation shot from midcourt.
Taylor scored 21 points for Wisconsin.
We fell apart,' Taylor said.
They turned us over and did a good job of pressuring us.

Wisconsin (12-4, 2-2) was an unlikely candidate to blow a late lead.
The Badgers rarely turn the ball over
and are terrific from the free throw line
but Michigan State took advantage of some surprising Wisconsin miscues.
Trailing 53-48 with just over a minute remaining in regulation,
the Spartans came up with a steal near midcourt that
led to a breakaway dunk by Keith Appling. Wisconsin
lost the ball again on the following inbounds,
and Korie Lucious made a 3-pointer to tie it with 47.2 seconds to play.

The Badgers looked completely out of sorts on their next possession,
which ended when Tim Jarmusz shot an air ball from the corner
at the end of the shot clock. Lucas had a chance to win it
at the other end, but he decided to go up with his right
hand while driving to the basket,
and Keaton Nankivil was able to block his layup from behind.

After turning the ball over only 13 times in its first three Big Ten games,
Wisconsin gave it away 11 times against the Spartans.
A couple turnovers there that are uncharacteristic for us,
Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan said.
But in the heat of the battle, they happen.

Wisconsin started well, content to allow
Michigan State to settle for outside shots.
The Badgers led 19-7 at one point,
forcing Izzo to call a timeout with 8:51 left in the first half.
Michigan State fought back to a 23-20 deficit at
halftime despite missing all eight of its 3-point attempts.
Appling finally made one to start the second half,
and Green scored from the perimeter to
give the Spartans their first lead at 25-23.

When the game ended, a few fans began chanting
Just like football! Michigan State beat Wisconsin
in football this season, but the Badgers
ended up in the Rose Bowl anyway, much to the Spartans' chagrin.
Michigan State's basketball team is less concerned with
that and more worried about improving before the NCAA tournament.
The Spartans are trying for their third straight Final Four.
This was important, very important,
Green said. A loss could've changed our whole season.


Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/basketball/ncaa/men/gameflash/2011/01/11/65700_recap.html?conf=Top%2025#ixzz1Aota7ybx

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


Vincent Hamilton debuted for Baerum - by Eurobasket News
Vincent Hamilton (196-F-80, college: Wilberforce) debuted for Baerum in the latest round of the Norway League. The American Forward scored 12 points and made 6 rebounds on January 7th.
In 2000-2001 he started his career for Illinois Central Community College (NJCAA) and then in 2001-2002 appeared for Wilberforce (NAIA). In the next year he averaged 13.9ppg 6.1rpg 0.4apg 56.3%fg. In 2003-2004 moved to Dudi Sangalhos (Portugal-1a) and in 2004-2005 played for Diogo Cao (Portugal-CNB1) averaging 22,3ppg and 12,3rpg. The season 2005-2006 Vincent Hamilton started for Galitos/Weber/Novagres (Portugal-Proliga, starting five) and after 22 games his stats read 16.3ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 59.0%, FT: 46.0%. In 2006-2007 moved to Cv.Alianca Sangalhos (Portugal-Proliga, starting five) and avareged 17.9 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.4 spg. In Jan.'08 signed a one month contract with at Ciudad Torrealta Molina (Spain-LEB Bronze, starting five) and then headed to Africa for Maxaquene Maputo (Mozambique-D1, starting five).

Vincent Cairo joined Ammerud - by Eurobasket News
Vincent Cairo (197-F/G-77) joined Ammerud and had 2 points and 6 rebounds in the Regular Season Round 14. His new team however lost to Baerum 53-82. Vincent Cairo made 1/5 from the filed and had 0/2 from the free throw line and from the arc. Armeud meanwhile dropped to 2-9 record, but expects help from a newly signed player. The next game Ammerud will play on January 12th against Asker.
The season 2001-2002 the Dutch player started fro Challengers (Prom.Div.) and then moved to BV Jahn II (Holland-D2). In 2005-2006 played for ASVU (Prom. Div.) tested in preseason but not signed and then in 2005-2006 went to Penne (Italy-C2). In 2007 participated at the European Basketball Free Agent Camp in Luxembourg and in 2006-2007 moved to CariChieti Lanciano Basket (Italy-C2). In 2007-2008 appeared in Emmen Eagles (Prom.Divisie) and in 2008-2009 played for Red Giants Meppel (Prom.Divisie).


BLNO Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Antonio RUSSELL
  Kristiansand
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 27.8
 1. Russell, Kristiansand27.8 
 2. Timus, Tromso26.1 
 3. Bullock, Gimle23.4 
 4. Kombat, Froya23.1 
 5. Ross, Kristiansand23.0 
 6. Karlsen, Asker22.3 
 7. Diomande, Ammerud22.1 
 8. January, Tromso21.4 
 9. Eskeland, Ulriken19.0 
 10. Gabrans, Froya18.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Peter BULLOCK
  Gimle
  (198-F/C-82)
  Avg: 13.1
 1. Bullock, Gimle13.1 
 2. Mullenax, Ulriken12.1 
 3. Oatis, Baerum11.9 
 4. Karlsen, Asker10.0 
 5. Kombat, Froya9.3 
 6. Fivelstad, Ulriken8.5 
 7. Christensen, Tro.8.1 
 8. Djerman, Gimle7.9 
 9. January, Tromso7.5 
 10. Elsafadi, Froya7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Peter BULLOCK
  Gimle
  (198-F/C-82)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Bullock, Gimle4.9 
 2. Eskeland, Ulriken4.5 
 3. Gabrans, Froya4.5 
 4. Mahnin, Asker4.1 
 5. Issalhi, Tromso4.1 
 6. Elgmork, Baerum4.0 
 7. Russell, Kristiansand3.7 
 8. Mihaylov, Tromso3.7 
 9. Timus, Tromso3.7 
 10. Ouakkaha, Ulriken3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Samuel DIOMANDE
  Ammerud
  (191-G-88)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Diomande, Ammerud2.8 
 2. Bullock, Gimle2.5 
 3. Eskeland, Ulriken2.5 
 4. Russell, Kristiansand2.0 
 5. Mahnin, Asker2.0 
 6. Ouakkaha, Ulriken1.9 
 7. Mullenax, Ulriken1.8 
 8. Hinsch, Asker1.7 
 9. Elgmork, Baerum1.6 
 10. Timus, Tromso1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Donald OATIS
  Baerum
  (206-F/C-79)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Oatis, Baerum3.3 
 2. Beqiri, Kristiansand1.8 
 3. January, Tromso1.2 
 4. Mullenax, Ulriken1.1 
 5. Bullock, Gimle1.0 
 6. Christensen, Tro.0.9 
 7. Nevjen, Baerum0.8 
 8. Karlsen, Asker0.7 
 9. Ndiaye, Gimle0.6 
 10. Sorensen, Ammerud0.5 


*****************************************************
  PBL   


Standings
PBL Standings
 1. Lawton Ft.SC 3-0 
 2. Halifax R. 2-1 
 3. Quebec K. 2-1 
 4. Vermont FH 1-2 
 5. Dayton A. 1-2 
 6. Kentucky S. 1-2 
 7. Rochester R. 1-2 
 8. Saint John M.R. 1-2 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kenny JONES
  Kentucky S.
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 21
 1. Jones, Kentucky S.21.0 
 2. Crouch, Rocheste.19.5 
 3. Dumes, Dayton A.19.0 
 4. George, Dayton A.19.0 
 5. Thompson, Kentucky.16.0 
 6. McLeish, Kentucky.15.0 
 7. Walton, Rocheste.14.0 
 8. Logan, Kentucky S.14.0 
 9. Council, Rocheste.12.5 
 10. Durr, Rochester R.12.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kenny JONES
  Kentucky S.
  (198-F-84)
  Avg: 8
 1. Jones, Kentucky S.8.0 
 2. Logan, Kentucky S.8.0 
 3. George, Dayton A.7.0 
 4. Walton, Rocheste.7.0 
 5. Sowell, Dayton A.6.0 
 6. Milum, Dayton A.6.0 
 7. Carter, Rocheste.5.5 
 8. Thompson, Kentucky.4.0 
 9. Crouch, Rocheste.4.0 
 10. Harris, Kentucky S.4.0 
Assists Per Game
 Maurice MICKENS
  Kentucky S.
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 5
 1. Mickens, Kentucky.5.0 
 2. Crouch, Rocheste.4.5 
 3. Council, Rocheste.3.0 
 4. Taylor, Dayton A.3.0 
 5. Friel, Rochester R.2.0 
 6. Baker, Kentucky S.2.0 
 7. Walton, Rocheste.2.0 
 8. Stevenson, Rocheste.1.0 
 9. McLeish, Kentucky.1.0 
 10. Jones, Kentucky S.1.0 
Steals Per Game
 Reo LOGAN
  Kentucky S.
  (213-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Logan, Kentucky S.2.0 
 2. Council, Rocheste.2.0 
 3. Jones, Kentucky S.2.0 
 4. Crouch, Rocheste.1.5 
 5. Mickens, Kentucky.1.0 
 6. McLeish, Kentucky.1.0 
 7. Baker, Kentucky S.1.0 
 8. Dumes, Dayton A.1.0 
 9. Walton, Rocheste.0.5 
 10. Carter, Rocheste.0.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Reo LOGAN
  Kentucky S.
  (213-C-81)
  Avg: 1
 1. Logan, Kentucky S.1.0 
 2. Carter, Rocheste.1.0 
 3. Johnson, Rocheste.1.0 
 4. Farley, Rocheste.1.0 
 5. Stevenson, Rocheste.0.5 
 6. Walton, Rocheste.0.5 
 7. Durr, Rochester R.0.0 
 8. Mickens, Kentucky.0.0 
 9. Baker, Kentucky S.0.0 
 10. Sowell, Dayton A.0.0 


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


Participants for the PLK All-Star Game in Kalisz - by Greg

All-North 1st Team
#s#
Igor Milicic
Milicic
Cameron Bennerman
Bennerman
Slavisa Bogavac
Bogavac
Zbigniew Bialek
Bialek
Ratko Varda
Varda
#e#5
North:

Igor Milicic (194-G-76) of AZS Koszalin
Cameron Bennerman (193-G-84) of Energa Czarni Slupsk
Slavisa Bogavac (200-G/F-80) of AZS Koszalin
Zbigniew Bialek (203-F-82) of Energa Czarni Slupsk
Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79) of Asseco Prokom Gdynia
Daniel Ewing (191-G-83) of Asseco Prokom Gdynia
Mantas Cesnauskis (189-G-81) of Energa Czarni Slupsk
Filip Dylewicz (202-F-80) of Trefl Sopot
Michael Hicks (193-G-83) of SKS Polpharma-Pakmet Starogard Gd.
Bryan Davis (206-F-86) of Energa Czarni Slupsk
Ted Scott (188-G-85) of SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg
Adam Waczynski (199-F-89) of Trefl Sopot
Head Coach: Dainius Adomaitis of Energa Czarni Slupsk

All-South 1st Team
#s#
Walter Hodge
Hodge
Andrzej Pluta
Pluta
Harding NaNa
NaNa
Jakub Dloniak
Dloniak
Chris Burgess
Burgess
#e#5
South:

Walter Hodge (183-G-86) of Intermache Zastal Zielona Gora
Andrzej Pluta (182-G-74) of Anwil Wloclawek
Harding NaNa (203-F-81) of Polonia Azbud Warszawa
Jakub Dloniak (192-F-83) of Intermache Zastal Zielona Gora
Chris Burgess (209-C-79) of Intermache Zastal Zielona Gora
Torey Thomas (180-G-85) of PGE Turow Zgorzelec
Eddie Miller (191-G-85) of PBG Basket Poznan
Darnell Hinson (186-G-80) of Polonia Azbud Warszawa
Kevin Goffney (196-F-86) of ASK KS Siarka Tarnobrzeg
Nikola Jovanovic (203-C/F-81) of Anwil Wloclawek
Marko Brkic (206-F/C-82) of PGE Turow Zgorzelec
Tony Easley (206-F-87) of Polonia Azbud Warszawa
Head Coach: Jacek Winnicki of PGE Turow Zgorzelec

Tissot Slam Dunk Contest:
Cameron Bennerman
Bryan Davis
Eddie Miller
Ted Scott

Spalding Three-Point Shootout:
Eddie Miller
Ivan Koljevic (185-G-84) of PGE Turow Zgorzelec
Mantas Cesnauskis
Andrzej Pluta
Michael Hicks





*****************************************************
  SAUDI ARABIA   


D1 Round 7: Al Shrooq records their first victory - by Eurobasket News
Al Shrooq has finally registered their first victory this season after six consecutive loses. The win is especially important as it came on the road game in Safwa, where they defeated Al Safwa (0-6) 89-85 on Thursday. Al Shrooq (1-6) left bottom position moving up to tenth place, which they share with Al Maseerah. It was Al Safwa's sixth loss in a row. They still closes the standings with six games lost. Al Shrooq is looking forward to face higher ranked Al Fateh (#4) in Al Hasa in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Al Safwa will play on the road against Al Jubail (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
D1 top team - Al Ittihad (7-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed tenth ranked Al Maseerah (1-6) in Jeddah 84-64. Undefeated Al Ittihad have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 7-0 record. Al Maseerah lost third consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with six games lost. They share it with Al Shrooq. Al Ittihad's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Jeddah Al Ahli.
An interesting game took place in Jeddah where 6th ranked Al Ahli (4-3) was upset on its own court by ninth ranked Al Wahda (2-4) 57-47 on Thursday. Al Wahda moved-up to eighth place. Al Ahli at the other side dropped to the fifth position with three games lost. They share it with Al Hilal. Al Wahda will meet higher ranked Al Hilal (#6) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Al Ahli's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Jeddah to the arena Al Ittihad.
Third ranked Ohud (6-1) crushed at home 8th ranked Al Jubail (2-5) by 33 points 78-45, which is the biggest margin this round. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Ohud. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Ansar. Al Jubail at the other side dropped to the ninth position with five games lost. Ohud's next round opponent will be Al Nahda (#7) in Al Khobar which should be theoretically another easy game. Al Jubail will play at home against Al Safwa.

In the last two games of round 7 Al Nahda was destroyed by Al Ansar on the opponent's court 65-45. Al Fateh managed to outperform Al Hilal in a home game 63-52.

Al Ansar - Al Nahda 65-45

Very expected game in Medina where 7th ranked Al Nahda (3-4) was crushed by second ranked Al Ansar (6-1) 65-45. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Al Ansar. They maintain second place with 6-1 record behind leader Al Ittihad, which they share with Ohud. Al Nahda at the other side keeps the seventh position with four games lost. Al Ansar's next round opponent will be Al Maseerah (#10) in Jeddah and are hoping to win another game. Al Nahda will play at home against Ohud in Medina.
gschID: 120345


Al Safwa - Al Shrooq 85-89

Al Shrooq has finally registered their first victory this season after six consecutive loses. The win is especially important as it came on the road game in Safwa, where they defeated Al Safwa (0-6) 89-85 on Thursday. Al Shrooq (1-6) left bottom position moving up to tenth place, which they share with Al Maseerah. It was Al Safwa's sixth loss in a row. They still closes the standings with six games lost. Al Shrooq is looking forward to face higher ranked Al Fateh (#4) in Al Hasa in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Al Safwa will play on the road against Al Jubail (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
gschID: 120346


Ohud - Al Jubail 78-45

Third ranked Ohud (6-1) crushed at home 8th ranked Al Jubail (2-5) by 33 points 78-45, which is the biggest margin this round. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Ohud. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Ansar. Al Jubail at the other side dropped to the ninth position with five games lost. Ohud's next round opponent will be Al Nahda (#7) in Al Khobar which should be theoretically another easy game. Al Jubail will play at home against Al Safwa.
gschID: 120347


Al Ahli - Al Wahda 47-57

An interesting game took place in Jeddah where 6th ranked Al Ahli (4-3) was upset on its own court by ninth ranked Al Wahda (2-4) 57-47 on Thursday. Al Wahda moved-up to eighth place. Al Ahli at the other side dropped to the fifth position with three games lost. They share it with Al Hilal. Al Wahda will meet higher ranked Al Hilal (#6) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Al Ahli's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Jeddah to the arena Al Ittihad.
gschID: 120348


Al Ittihad - Al Maseerah 84-64

D1 top team - Al Ittihad (7-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed tenth ranked Al Maseerah (1-6) in Jeddah 84-64. Al Ittihad have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 7-0 record. Al Maseerah lost third consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with six games lost. They share it with Al Shrooq. Al Ittihad's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Jeddah Al Ahli.
gschID: 120343


Al Fateh - Al Hilal 63-52

Everything could happen in Al Hasa at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked Al Fateh and 5th ranked Al Hilal had identical 4-2 record. This time Al Fateh used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Riyadh 63-52. The victory was the third consecutive win for Al Fateh. They maintain fourth place with 5-2 record. Al Hilal at the other side keeps the fifth position with three games lost. Al Fateh's next round opponent will be Al Shrooq (#11) in Riyadh and are hoping to win another game. Al Hilal will play at home against Al Wahda (#8) in Mecca.
gschID: 120344




D1 Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Al Ittihad 7-0 
 2. Al Ansar 6-1 
 3. Ohud 6-1 
 4. Al Fateh 5-2 
 5. Al Ahli 4-3 
 6. Al Hilal 4-3 
 7. Al Nahda 3-4 
 8. Al Wahda 2-4 
 9. Al Jubail 2-5 
 10. Al Maseerah 1-6 
 11. Al Shrooq 1-6 
 12. Al Safwa 0-6 


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


Standings - A Liga
A Standings
 1. FMP 15-0 
 2. Beograd 11-4 
 3. Metalac 9-6 
 4. Mega Vizura 9-6 
 5. Novi Sad 9-6 
 6. Napredak 8-7 
 7. Sloboda Uzice 8-7 
 8. Tamis 7-8 
 9. Vojvodina 6-9 
 10. Borac 6-9 
 11. Sloga 6-9 
 12. Proleter Naftagas 6-9 
 13. Crnokosa 4-11 
 14. Superfund 1-14 
Play in international cups:
 1. Crvena Zvezda - 
 2. Hemofarm - 
 3. Partizan - 
 4. Radnicki - 


Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Nikola KOPRIVICA
  Iraklis
  (200-F-88)
  Avg: 22.4
 1. Koprivica, Super.22.4 
 2. Milisavljevi., Mega V.19.8 
 3. Janjusevic, Crnok.18.3 
 4. Bunic, Novi Sad17.4 
 5. Bozovic, Sloga16.9 
 6. Vasojevic, Borac16.8 
 7. Sulovic, Napredak16.5 
 8. Majkic, Prolet.16.5 
 9. Tresac, Borac16.1 
 10. Micevic, Sloboda .16.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nikola MARKOVIC
  FMP
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Markovic, FMP8.3 
 2. Jelovac, Mega V.7.8 
 3. Misanovic, Beograd6.9 
 4. Djurovic, Crnokosa6.7 
 5. Borovcanin, Sloga6.7 
 6. Ljubicic, Metalac6.7 
 7. Spica, Superfund6.6 
 8. Dedijer, Borac6.5 
 9. Cubrilo, Sloga6.4 
 10. Bozovic, Sloga6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Vid ZARKOVIC
  Proleter Naftagas
  (189-G-75)
  Avg: 6
 1. Zarkovic, Prolet.6.0 
 2. Vlahovic, Sloga5.6 
 3. Radivojevic, FMP5.2 
 4. Ljubicic, Metalac5.2 
 5. Covic, FMP5.1 
 6. Milisavljevi., Mega V.5.1 
 7. Atanackovic, Prolet.4.3 
 8. Djoric, Superfund4.3 
 9. Radulovic, Crnokosa4.2 
 10. Mitrovic, Beograd3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Vuksan GAGOVIC
  Proleter Naftagas
  (202-F-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Gagovic, Prolet.2.6 
 2. Kuzeta, Novi Sad2.5 
 3. Marjanovic, Vojvo.2.2 
 4. Bocka, Crnokosa2.1 
 5. Ljubicic, Metalac2.1 
 6. Dundjerski, Beograd2.1 
 7. Vujosevic, Novi Sad1.8 
 8. Majkic, Prolet.1.8 
 9. Djoric, Superfund1.8 
 10. Kocergin, Superfund1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Nenad MISANOVIC
  T.E.Kashan
  (217-C-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Misanovic, Beograd1.9 
 2. Ilic, FMP1.5 
 3. Majkic, Prolet.1.4 
 4. Marjanovic, Vojvo.1.2 
 5. Buric, Tamis1.1 
 6. Bircevic, Metalac1.0 
 7. Ljubojevic, Slobod.0.8 
 8. Kalinic, Novi Sad0.8 
 9. Dedijer, Borac0.7 
 10. Dramicanin, Mega V.0.7 


A League Round 15: Mega Vizura is upset by Novi Sad - by Eurobasket News
The game between third ranked Mega Vizura (9-6) and fifth ranked Novi Sad (9-6) was the most important one in the last round on Sunday night. Mega Vizura was defeated by Novi Sad in Belgrade 91-81. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Mega Vizura. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 51-38 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Novi Sad made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was guard Bogic Vujosevic (189-92) who scored 17 points (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). Guard Ognjen Kuzeta (194-87) chipped in 14 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Branko Milisavljevic (193-76, agency: Beo Basket) who recorded 19 points and 7 assists. Novi Sad has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Mega Vizura and Metalac. Novi Sad is looking forward to face Crnokosa (#13) in Kosjeric in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Mega Vizura will play on the road against Sloboda (#7) in Uzice and is hoping to win this game.
Undefeated leader FMP Zeleznik delivered the fifteenth consecutive victory. This time they crushed 14th ranked Superfund BP (1-14) 93-55 in Beograd. It was a good game for guard Filip Covic (180-89) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 assists. Nikola Markovic contributed with 8 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Maksim Kovacevic (199-87) answered with 19 points and 6 rebounds for Superfund BP. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Undefeated FMP Zeleznik (15-0) have an impressive series of fifteen victories in a row. They maintain first place with a perfect record of 15 victories in a row. Superfund BP lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. FMP Zeleznik will play against Metalac (#3) in Valjevo in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Superfund BP will play at home against Borac (#10) in Cacak to get more than just one victory in their record.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Kraljevo, where higher ranked Sloboda (8-7) was outleveled in a road game by twelfth ranked Sloga (6-9) 91-69 on Saturday. It was a great evening for Slobodan Bozovic who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 16 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Sloga's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was Stefan Fekete with 14 points and 7 assists. Sloga moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Sloboda at the other side keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. They share it with Napredak. Sloga will meet higher ranked Tamis (#8) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sloboda will play against Mega Vizura and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games of round 15 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Napredak defeated Vojvodina in Krusevac 79-61. Borac was beaten by Tamis at home 62-77. Metalac won against Proleter Naftagas on the opponent's court 82-73. Crnokosa unfortunately lost to Beograd in a home game 73-83.
The best stats of 15th round was 26 points and 12 rebounds by Borislav Djurovic of Crnokosa.

Vojvodina - Napredak 61-79

There was no surprise in Novi Sad where 9th ranked Vojvodina Srbijagas (6-9) were defeated by seventh ranked Napredak Rubin (8-7) 79-61 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Napredak Rubin. Vojvodina Srbijagas managed to win second period 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Napredak Rubin forced 20 Vojvodina Srbijagas turnovers. It was a great evening for Montenegrin guard Slobodan Pejovic (192-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 25 points (perfect behind the arc making all five shots). Forward Petar Beader (205-85, agency: BeoExcell) helped adding 14 points. The best for the losing side was center Milos Marjanovic (207-81, agency: BeoExcell) with 14 points and 7 steals and guard Svetozar Popovic (195-87) scored 12 points. Four Vojvodina Srbijagas players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Napredak Rubin moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Sloboda Uzice. Vojvodina Srbijagas at the other side keep the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Napredak Rubin will meet at home Proleter Naftagas (#12) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Vojvodina Srbijagas will play against the league's second-placed OKK Beograd and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Vojvodina: M.Marjanovic 14+4reb+1ast, S.Popovic 12+4reb+2ast, D.Kovacevic 11+2reb+1ast, A.Jevdjic 10+6reb, V.Velickovic 6+4reb+3ast, M.Kesic 4+1reb
Napredak: S.Pejovic 25+2reb, P.Beader 14+4reb+2ast, N.Sulovic 10+7reb, A.Lekic 7+2ast, P.Mitic 6+3ast, S.Cupkovic 5+3reb
gschID: 109827


FMP - Superfund 93-55

Undefeated leader FMP Zeleznik delivered the fifteenth consecutive victory. This time they crushed 14th ranked Superfund BP (1-14) 93-55 in Beograd. The game without a history. FMP Zeleznik led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. FMP Zeleznik outrebounded Superfund BP 45-25 including a 35-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Superfund BP's players. FMP Zeleznik brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was a good game for guard Filip Covic (180-89) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 assists. Power forward Nikola Markovic (208-89) contributed with 8 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Four FMP Zeleznik players scored in double figures. Swingman Maksim Kovacevic (199-87) answered with 19 points and 6 rebounds and forward Nikola Rondovic (205-91, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points in the effort for Superfund BP. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. FMP Zeleznik (15-0) have an impressive series of fifteen victories in a row. They maintain first place with a perfect record of 15 victories in a row. Superfund BP lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. FMP Zeleznik will play against Metalac (#3) in Valjevo in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Superfund BP will play at home against Borac (#10) in Cacak to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Superfund: M.Kovacevic 19+6reb+1ast, N.Rondovic 11+3reb+1ast, K.Kocergin 5+1reb+4ast, P.Koprivica 4+4reb, A.Zivkovic 4+3reb, S.Tapuskovic 4+2reb
FMP: D.Jelic 15+4reb, F.Covic 14+2reb+11ast, A.Milutinovic 13+3reb+1ast, S.Zivanovic 10+1reb+2ast, I.Smiljanic 10+4reb+3ast, V.Ivelja 9+2reb
gschID: 109828


Borac - Tamis 62-77

Everything could happen in Cacak at the game between two tied teams. Both ninth ranked Tamis and 10th ranked Borac had identical 6-8 record. But Borac was not able to use a home court advantage and lost to the opponent from Pancevo 77-62 on Saturday night. The game was mostly controlled by Tamis. Borac managed to win third quarter 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 40 of its points in the paint compared to Borac's 18. It was a great shooting night for Tamis especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. It was a great evening for center Dejan Buric (204-81) who led his team to a victory scoring 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 blocks. Guard Branko Jereminov (187-87) helped adding 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was swingman Djordje Tresac (192-87) with 19 points and power forward Filip Dedijer (205-88) scored 9 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Tamis (7-8) moved-up to eighth place. Borac lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Tamis will meet at home Sloga (#11) in the next round. Borac will play against Superfund BP in Beograd and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Borac: D.Tresac 19+2reb+1ast, N.Vasojevic 12+2reb+2ast, F.Dedijer 9+8reb+1ast, N.Dasic 6+2reb+1ast, F.Pajevic 6+4reb+2ast, N.Pesakovic 5+1reb
Tamis: D.Buric 19+7reb+1ast, D.Perak 14+2reb, B.Jereminov 13+6reb+4ast, R.Mihajlovic 8+2ast, D.Djokic 7+2reb+3ast, M.Radenkovic 6+5reb+1ast
gschID: 109829


Proleter Naftagas - Metalac 73-82

Very expected game in Zrenjanin where 11th ranked Proleter Naftagas (6-9) were defeated by fifth ranked Metalac (9-6) 82-73 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 45-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Metalac outrebounded Proleter Naftagas 40-26 including 19 on the offensive glass. It was a great evening for guard Stefan Sinovec (195-88) who led his team to a victory scoring 27 points. Forward Marko Ljubicic (200-87) helped adding 9 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists. The best for the losing side was center Zoran Majkic (207-78, agency: Court Side) with 21 points and 7 rebounds and forward Vuksan Gagovic (202-84) scored 17 points. Four Proleter Naftagas players scored in double figures. Metalac moved-up to third place, which they share with Mega Vizura and Novi Sad. Proleter Naftagas at the other side dropped to the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Metalac will meet at home league's leader FMP Zeleznik in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Proleter Naftagas will play against Napredak Rubin (#6) in Krusevac and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Proleter Naftagas: Z.Majkic 21+7reb, V.Gagovic 17+4reb+1ast, P.Lambic 13+4reb+1ast, M.Vulin 11+4reb+2ast, N.Djoric 9+1reb+4ast, P.Nikolic 2+2reb
Metalac: S.Sinovec 27+1reb+2ast, R.Marojevic 16+8reb, S.Bircevic 14+11reb+1ast, D.Kruscic 9+5reb, M.Ljubicic 9+10reb+9ast, S.Balmazovic 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 109830


Sloga - Sloboda Uzice 91-69

We should mention about the upset which took place in Kraljevo, where higher ranked Sloboda (8-7) was outleveled in a road game by twelfth ranked Sloga (6-9) 91-69 on Saturday. The game without a history. Sloga led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Sloga outrebounded Sloboda 42-28 including 17 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Sloboda's players. It was a great evening for power forward Slobodan Bozovic (207-79) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 16 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Guard Stefan Jovic (190-90) helped adding 13 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Four Sloga players scored in double figures. Sloga's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was guard Stefan Fekete (188-86, agency: Beo Basket) with 14 points and 7 assists and forward Branko Andjic (201-82) scored 19 points (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!). Sloga moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Sloboda at the other side keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. They share it with Napredak. Sloga will meet higher ranked Tamis (#8) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sloboda will play against Mega Vizura and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Sloboda Uzice: B.Andjic 19+4reb+1ast, S.Fekete 14+4reb+7ast, N.Micevic 11+2reb+3ast, M.Petronijevic 8+4reb, N.Jevtovic 6+1reb+1ast, Z.Djuric 5+4reb
Sloga: M.Trivunovic 20+1reb+2ast, S.Bozovic 19+16reb+2ast, B.Popovic 14+4reb+1ast, S.Jovic 13+5reb+6ast, F.Gavranovic 8+3reb+3ast, A.Vlahovic 4+2reb+2ast
gschID: 109831


Mega Vizura - Novi Sad 81-91

The game between third ranked Mega Vizura (9-6) and fifth ranked Novi Sad (9-6) was the most important one in the last round on Sunday night. Mega Vizura was defeated by Novi Sad in Vizura 91-81. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Mega Vizura. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 51-38 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Novi Sad made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was guard Bogic Vujosevic (189-92) who scored 17 points (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). Guard Ognjen Kuzeta (194-87) chipped in 14 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Branko Milisavljevic (193-76, agency: Beo Basket) who recorded 19 points and 7 assists and power forward Stevan Jelovac (208-89, agency: BeoExcell) added 13 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Four Novi Sad and five Mega Vizura players scored in double figures. Novi Sad has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Mega Vizura and Metalac. Novi Sad is looking forward to face Crnokosa (#13) in Kosjeric in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Mega Vizura will play on the road against Sloboda (#7) in Uzice and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Mega Vizura: B.Milisavljevic 19+4reb+7ast, S.Matovic 16+6reb+1ast, S.Jelovac 13+10reb+2ast, V.Micic 11+3reb+1ast, D.Cantekin 11+2reb+1ast, N.Maravic 5+2reb
Novi Sad: B.Vujosevic 17+3reb+3ast, D.Bunic 16+3reb, O.Kuzeta 14+5reb+2ast, N.Subotic 10+4reb, P.Jokic 10+2reb+2ast, N.Kalinic 9+3reb+4ast
gschID: 109832


Crnokosa - Beograd 73-83

Very predictable result in Kosjeric where second ranked OKK Beograd (11-4) beat 13th ranked Crnokosa (4-11) 83-73 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 47-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. OKK Beograd forced 24 Crnokosa turnovers. Strangely Crnokosa outrebounded OKK Beograd 36-18 including a 23-10 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great evening for power forward Dragan Zekovic (210-87, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points. Guard Slobodan Dundjerski (188-88, agency: Interperformances) helped adding 16 points and 5 rebounds. The best for the losing side was power forward Borislav Djurovic (205-80) with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) and power forward Goran Ignjatovic (204-83) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. OKK Beograd maintains second place with 11-4 record having four points less than leader FMP. Newly promoted Crnokosa keeps the thirteenth position with 11 games lost. OKK Beograd will meet at home Vojvodina Srbijagas (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Crnokosa will play against Novi Sad (#5) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Crnokosa: B.Djurovic 26+12reb, G.Ignjatovic 14+5reb, M.Bocka 11+5reb+2ast, M.Masalusic 6+4reb, M.Janjusevic 5, N.Karalic 4+3reb
Beograd: D.Zekovic 20+3reb+1ast, S.Dundjerski 16+5reb, S.Zivkovic 15+1reb, S.Knezevic 9+4reb, D.Mitrovic 8+2reb+3ast, A.Tanaskovic 6+1reb
gschID: 109826




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


Standings - D1
Extraliga Standings
 1. Nitra 16-4 
 2. Nova Ves 14-7 
 3. Komarno 12-10 
 4. Vahostav-Zilina 11-10 
 5. Svit 10-10 
 6. Levice 10-11 
 7. Handlova 10-11 
 8. Prievidza 7-13 
 9. Inter Bratislava 7-13 
 10. B.Bystrica 6-14 


*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Stats Leaders - 1B
Points Per Game
 Uros IVANOVIC
  Radovljica
  (204-F/C-74)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Ivanovic, Radovljica21.7 
 2. Husic, Kraski Zidar19.7 
 3. Primc, Radovljica17.5 
 4. Pusic, Litija17.1 
 5. Jotic, Rogaska17.1 
 6. Blazevic, Litija16.9 
 7. Tomic, Rogaska16.4 
 8. Marcetic, Nova G.16.3 
 9. Lobe, Grosuplje16.3 
 10. Brcina, Hrastnik15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mirnes HUSIC
  Kraski Zidar
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Husic, Kraski Zidar11.2 
 2. Jakhel, KD Postojna9.2 
 3. Ivanovic, Radovljica8.7 
 4. Hocevar, Triglav .8.0 
 5. Barovic, Primor.8.0 
 6. Spesic, Rogaska8.0 
 7. Lobe, Grosuplje7.7 
 8. Kosec, Sencur CP7.4 
 9. Buda, Kraski Zidar6.9 
 10. Prole, Splosna plovba6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Boban TOMIC
  Rogaska
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 6
 1. Tomic, Rogaska6.0 
 2. Tratnik, Primor.5.4 
 3. Perko, Splosna .5.0 
 4. Zalar, Kraski Zidar4.2 
 5. Milasinovic, Sencur C.4.1 
 6. Blazevic, Litija4.0 
 7. Milovic, Splosna .3.9 
 8. Glavas, KD Postojna3.6 
 9. Jereb, Konjice3.3 
 10. Ovnik, Hrastnik3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Tomaz JEREB
  Konjice
  (192-G-91)
  Avg: 3
 1. Jereb, Konjice3.0 
 2. Tomic, Rogaska2.9 
 3. Jotic, Rogaska2.3 
 4. Lobe, Grosuplje2.3 
 5. Bratina, Primor.2.0 
 6. Zalar, Kraski Zidar2.0 
 7. Roser, Medvode1.9 
 8. Podobnik, Medvode1.9 
 9. Glavas, KD Postojna1.8 
 10. Erculj, Grosuplje1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Gregor JAKHEL
  KD Postojna
  (206-F/C-88)
  Avg: 2
 1. Jakhel, KD Postojna2.0 
 2. Lobe, Grosuplje1.4 
 3. Husic, Kraski Zidar1.4 
 4. Barovic, Primor.1.1 
 5. Trampus, Grosuplje1.1 
 6. Hren, Litija0.9 
 7. Kosec, Sencur CP0.9 
 8. Alispahic, Grosuplje0.7 
 9. Klepo, Radovljica0.7 
 10. Jakobcic, Triglav .0.6 


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


Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Elephants 22-8 
 2. Sonic Boom KT 22-9 
 3. Dongbu Promy 21-9 
 4. Samsung Th. 17-14 
 5. KCC Egis 16-15 
 6. SK Knights 15-16 
 7. LG Sakers 14-17 
 8. Mobis Phoebus 9-21 
 9. Daegu Orions 9-22 
 10. Anyang KGC 9-23 


KBL Round 29 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The most interesting game of round 29 in the KBL was a home defeat of 6th ranked SK Knights (15-16) to fifth ranked KCC Egis (16-15) 80-71 in the game for the fifth place. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 40-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. KCC Egis outrebounded SK Knights 34-23 including 28 on the defensive glass. 34 personal fouls committed by SK Knights helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American center Chris Daniels (211-84) stepped up and scored 19 points and 8 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners and international center Seung-Jin Ha (222-85) chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds. American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) responded with 23 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. KCC Egis has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 16-15 record. SK Knights at the other side keep the sixth position with 16 games lost. KCC Egis are looking forward to face higher ranked Samsung Thunders (#4) in Seoul in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SK Knights will play on the road against Mobis Phoebus in Ulsan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Samsung Thunders (#4) were upset in Changwon by seventh ranked LG Sakers 83-70. American center Chris Alexander (216-80, college: Iowa St., agency: Priority Sports) nailed a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and Greg Stevenson accounted for 20 points and 7 rebounds. Naturalized American power forward Eric Sandrin (206-78, college: Seattle Pacific) came up with 20 points and 5 rebounds for Samsung Thunders in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. LG Sakers maintains seventh place with 14-17 record. Samsung Thunders at the other side keep the fourth position with 14 games lost. LG Sakers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Samsung Thunders will play at home against KCC Egis (#5) in Jeonju and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
KBL top team - ET Land Elephants (22-8) managed to deliver another win on Tuesday. This time they beat tenth ranked Anyang KGC (9-23) in Inchon 77-66. The best player for the winners was Jarod Stevenson who scored 21 points and 4 assists. David Simon produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds for the guests. Anyang KGC's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. ET Land Elephants maintains first place with 22-8 record. Loser Anyang KGC stay at the bottom position with 23 games lost. ET Land Elephants will meet Dongbu Promy (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Anyang KGC will play against the league's second-placed Sonic Boom KT (#2) in Busan and hope to secure a win.
The game in Daegu was quite interesting. Third ranked Sonic Boom KT (22-9) played at the court of 8th ranked Daegu Orions (9-22). Sonic Boom KT defeated Daegu Orions 87-73. Sang-Oh Park orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Sonic Boom KT has a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Daegu Orions lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with 22 games lost. Sonic Boom KT's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Anyang KGC (#10) on the road and are hoping to win another game.



SK Knights - KCC Egis 71-80

The most interesting game of round 29 in the KBL was a home defeat of 6th ranked SK Knights (15-16) to fifth ranked KCC Egis (16-15) 80-71 in the game for the fifth place. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 40-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. KCC Egis outrebounded SK Knights 34-23 including 28 on the defensive glass. 34 personal fouls committed by SK Knights helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American center Chris Daniels (211-84) stepped up and scored 19 points and 8 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners and international center Seung-Jin Ha (222-85) chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds. Four KCC Egis players scored in double figures. American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) responded with 23 points and 5 rebounds and the former international guard Hee-Jung Joo (181-77) scored 14 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. KCC Egis has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 16-15 record. SK Knights at the other side keep the sixth position with 16 games lost. KCC Egis are looking forward to face higher ranked Samsung Thunders (#4) in Seoul in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SK Knights will play on the road against Mobis Phoebus in Ulsan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
SK Knights: T.Leather 23+5reb, H.Joo 14+3reb+6ast, K.Hoon Byun 13+1reb, H.Kim 8+4reb+3ast, G.Cline-Heard 6+4reb+1ast, S.Hwang 3+1reb
KCC Egis: C.Daniels 19+8reb, S.Ha 18+9reb, T.Chon 13+5reb+6ast, B.Kang 12+5reb+2ast, S.Choo 8+1reb+2ast, J.Merrill 7
gschID: 114187


Elephants - Anyang KGC 77-66

KBL top team - ET Land Elephants (22-8) managed to deliver another win on Tuesday. This time they beat tenth ranked Anyang KGC (9-23) in Inchon 77-66. The game without a history. ET Land Elephants led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. The best player for the winners was American forward Jarod Stevenson (200-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) who scored 21 points and 4 assists. His fellow American import forward Herbert Hill (203-84, college: Providence) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds. American center David Simon (207-82, college: IPFW) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds and the former international forward Sung-Chul Kim (195-76) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Anyang KGC's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. ET Land Elephants maintains first place with 22-8 record. Loser Anyang KGC stay at the bottom position with 23 games lost. ET Land Elephants will meet Dongbu Promy (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Anyang KGC will play against the league's second-placed Sonic Boom KT (#2) in Busan and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Anyang KGC: D.Simon 14+11reb+1ast, S.Kim 12+5reb+1ast, C.Park 9+3reb+1ast, S.Park 7+1ast, J.Varem 6+3reb, J.Lee 6+1reb
Elephants: J.Stevenson 21+3reb+4ast, J.Seo 15+7reb+1ast, H.Hill 14+13reb+1ast, Y.Jung 8+3reb+3ast, S.Park 6+7ast, H.Lee 5+1reb
gschID: 114188


LG Sakers - Samsung Th. 83-70

Samsung Thunders (#4) were upset in Changwon by seventh ranked LG Sakers 83-70. Samsung Thunders were ahead by 5 points at the halftime before a 42-24 second half run of LG Sakers. American center Chris Alexander (216-80, college: Iowa St., agency: Priority Sports) nailed a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and naturalized American forward Greg Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) accounted for 20 points and 7 rebounds. Four LG Sakers players scored in double figures. Naturalized American power forward Eric Sandrin (206-78, college: Seattle Pacific) came up with 20 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) added 17 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Samsung Thunders in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. LG Sakers maintains seventh place with 14-17 record. Samsung Thunders at the other side keep the fourth position with 14 games lost. LG Sakers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Samsung Thunders will play at home against KCC Egis (#5) in Jeonju and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Samsung Th.: E.Sandrin 20+5reb+2ast, A.Haynes 17+7reb+2ast, N.Dixon 12+6reb, J.Lee 9+2reb+4ast, K.Lee 5+2reb, W.Lee 3+1reb+1ast
LG Sakers: G.Stevenson 20+7reb+3ast, S.Ki 17+1reb, C.Alexander 16+13reb+1ast, H.Byun 12+2reb+4ast, D.Kang 6+2ast, T.Cummings 5+2reb
gschID: 114189


Daegu Orions - Sonic Boom KT 73-87

The game in Daegu was quite interesting. Third ranked Sonic Boom KT (22-9) played at the court of 8th ranked Daegu Orions (9-22). Sonic Boom KT defeated Daegu Orions 87-73. It looked good early as Daegu Orions took an 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Sonic Boom KT had a 23-14 second period charge getting the lead and Daegu Orions were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 73-87. Sonic Boom KT made 19-of-25 charity shots (76.0 percent) during the game. 27 personal fouls committed by Daegu Orions helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Sang-Oh Park (196-81) orchestrated the victory by scoring 24 points and 6 rebounds. American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) contributed with 21 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The former international forward Dong Jun Lee (200-80) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and forward Yong-Jun Oh (193-80) added 16 points in the effort for Daegu Orions. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Sonic Boom KT has a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Daegu Orions lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with 22 games lost. Sonic Boom KT's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Anyang KGC (#10) on the road and are hoping to win another game.
Top scorers:
Daegu Orions: Y.Oh 16+3reb+1ast, D.Jun Lee 16+11reb+2ast, M.Park 13+3reb+3ast, I.Heo 9+3reb+1ast, G.McGowan 8+3reb, O.George 5+6reb+1ast
Sonic Boom KT: S.Park 24+6reb+3ast, C.Rhodes 21+8reb, S.Cho 16+1reb+2ast, Y.Song 8+2reb, S.Park 6+1reb+2ast, J.Johnson 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 114190




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


CB Granada inks Roberto Guerra - by Eurobasket News
Roberto Guerra (195-G/F-83) is a new player of CB Granada. The 27-year-old guard/small forward successfully passed the tryout period and earned a deal for rest of the season.
Roberto Guerra arrives to the club from CAI Zaragoza, where he spent last two years. He had limited playing time in 2009/10 averaging just 1.4 points, 2 rebounds and 1.5 assists. In 2008/09, his numbers were slightly better. Before CAI Zaragoza, Guerra spent ten years with Gran Canaria. In their last season together (07/08) he had 8.9 ppg and 2.3 rpg in ULEB Cup, plus 6.9 ppg and 2.6 rpg in Spain. Roberto Guerra was a member of the Spanish B National Team in 2003. As a youngster, he played for U20 Spain.
CB Granada is currently the last ranked team in ACB with 3-12 record.

Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Jaycee CARROLL
  Gran Canaria
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 17.9
 1. Carroll, Gran Canaria17.9 
 2. Martinez, Valencia16.2 
 3. McDonald, DKV J.15.7 
 4. Teletovic, Caja L.15.6 
 5. Baron, Lagun A.15.6 
 6. Mickeal, Regal Barca15.4 
 7. Navarro, Regal B.15.3 
 8. English, DKV J.14.5 
 9. Kurz, Granada14.4 
 10. San Emeterio, Caja L.13.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Robert KURZ
  Granada
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Kurz, Granada9.5 
 2. Batista, Fuenlabr.8.4 
 3. Barac, Caja Laboral7.3 
 4. Donaldson, Menorca6.8 
 5. Doellman, Meridiano6.7 
 6. Wallace, Gran Canaria6.6 
 7. Trias, DKV Joventut6.5 
 8. Davis, Cajasol6.3 
 9. Miralles, Lagun A.6.3 
 10. Caner-Medley, Estudi.6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja Laboral
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 6
 1. Huertas, Caja L.6.0 
 2. Rubio, Regal Barca5.3 
 3. Cook, Valencia4.5 
 4. Valters, Fuenlabr.4.4 
 5. Ciorciari, Menorca4.3 
 6. Dumas, Valladolid4.1 
 7. Green, Gran Canaria3.9 
 8. Ingles, Granada3.9 
 9. San Miguel, Manre.3.5 
 10. McIntyre, Unicaja3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Joe INGLES
  Regal Barca
  (203-G/F-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Ingles, Granada2.3 
 2. Kirksay, Cajasol2.3 
 3. Calloway, Cajasol2.1 
 4. Mickeal, Regal Barca2.0 
 5. Robinson, DKV J.2.0 
 6. Davis, Cajasol1.9 
 7. Victor, Menorca1.8 
 8. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.8 
 9. Rubio, Regal Barca1.8 
 10. Cook, Valencia1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 D''or FISCHER
  Real Madrid
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Fischer, Real Madrid1.8 
 2. Vazquez, Regal B.1.7 
 3. Kurz, Granada1.4 
 4. Barnes, Valladolid1.3 
 5. Andriuskevic., Meridi.1.3 
 6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada1.1 
 7. Majstorovic, Manre.1.1 
 8. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.1 
 9. Barac, Caja Laboral1.0 
 10. Savane, Gran C.1.0 


Standings - ACB
ACB Standings
 1. Regal Barca 13-3 
 2. Real Madrid 12-3 
 3. Caja Laboral 11-5 
 4. Valladolid 10-6 
 5. Valencia 9-6 
 6. DKV Joventut 9-7 
 7. Fuenlabrada 9-7 
 8. Bizkaia Bilbao 9-7 
 9. Gran Canaria 8-7 
 10. Unicaja 8-8 
 11. Cajasol 7-8 
 12. CAI Zaragoza 7-9 
 13. Lagun Aro GBC 7-9 
 14. Estudiantes 6-9 
 15. Manresa 5-10 
 16. Menorca 4-12 
 17. Meridiano 4-12 
 18. Granada 3-13 


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


Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings
 1. Sundsvall 16-4 
 2. LF Basket 15-6 
 3. Sodertalje 14-6 
 4. Norrkoping 12-6 
 5. Uppsala 11-9 
 6. Solna 9-11 
 7. Jamtland 7-13 
 8. Boras 7-14 
 9. 08 5-15 
 10. Eco Orebro 4-16 


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Smith, Sodertalje22.1 
 2. Hargrove, Jamtland20.5 
 3. Smith, Uppsala20.4 
 4. Rush, Sundsvall20.3 
 5. McCoy, Boras19.6 
 6. Gunnarsson, Solna19.6 
 7. Klaric, Jamtland17.8 
 8. Palm, Boras17.3 
 9. Kjellbom, Norrkoping17.1 
 10. Wesby, Sundsvall16.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Hlynur BAERINGSSON
  Sundsvall
  (200-F/C-82)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Baeringsson, Sunds.11.5 
 2. McKnight, Boras9.3 
 3. Palm, Boras9.3 
 4. Kosmalski, Solna8.6 
 5. Kjellbom, Norrkoping7.8 
 6. Kohlmaier, Uppsala7.6 
 7. Walker, Solna7.5 
 8. Salaam, Jamtland7.2 
 9. Cipriano, Eco O.7.1 
 10. Akesson, LF Basket7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Mbemba, LF Basket6.2 
 2. Pleick, Eco Orebro5.4 
 3. Beck, 085.1 
 4. Frier, Uppsala4.5 
 5. Chuk, Sodertalje4.4 
 6. Smith, Uppsala4.3 
 7. Mitchell, Norrkoping4.3 
 8. Mosley, Eco Orebro4.2 
 9. Hargrove, Jamtland4.2 
 10. Baeringsson, Sunds.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Smith, Sodertalje3.9 
 2. Mbemba, LF Basket3.3 
 3. Rush, Sundsvall2.4 
 4. Hellgren, Jamtland2.2 
 5. Smith, Uppsala2.1 
 6. Baeringsson, Sunds.2.1 
 7. Chuk, Sodertalje1.9 
 8. Frier, Uppsala1.9 
 9. McCoy, Boras1.9 
 10. Mosley, Eco Orebro1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Bilal SALAAM
  Jamtland
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Salaam, Jamtland2.2 
 2. Palm, Boras1.8 
 3. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.7 
 4. Rosendahl, LF Ba.1.5 
 5. Ayuba, Norrkoping1.3 
 6. Kohlmaier, Uppsala1.1 
 7. Galick, Sodertalje1.1 
 8. Cipriano, Eco O.1.1 
 9. Walker, Solna1.0 
 10. Saks, Norrkoping0.9 


Standings - BasketEttan
Basketettan Standings
North
 1. Eagles 12-0 
 2. Taby 12-1 
 3. Haga Haninge 10-2 
 4. Akropol 9-4 
 5. Blackeberg 7-6 
 6. Lulea Steel 6-7 
 7. Orongo 5-8 
 8. Talje 4-8 
 9. Lidingo 4-9 
 10. Uppsala KFUM 3-10 
 11. BG Lulea 2-10 
 12. Hallsta 2-11 
South
 1. Srbija 11-2 
 2. Nassjo 8-3 
 3. Hoganas 8-5 
 4. Helsingborg 6-4 
 5. Malbas 5-5 
 6. Solna Branten 5-5 
 7. Sanda 5-7 
 8. Fryshuset 3-6 
 9. Brahe Basket 3-7 
 10. Eos 3-8 
 11. Norrkoping BK 3-8 
 12. Kvarnby 2-7 


Basketettan Round 13: Srbija edges Hoganas by one point - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 13 in the Basketettan took place in Hoganas. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of their biggest opponent Hoganas (8-5) to first ranked Srbija (11-2) 87-86 on Saturday evening. Srbija have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place in South with 11-2 record. Hoganas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the third position with five games lost. Srbija are looking forward to face Kvarnby (#12) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Hoganas will play against Sanda Basket (#7) in Huskvarna and are hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Spanga. Second ranked Taby Basket faced 4th placed Akropol. Guests from Taby (12-1) defeated host Akropol (9-4) 70-66. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Akropol. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Taby Basket. Newly promoted Taby Basket maintains second place in North with 12-1 record having just -1 point less than leader Srbija. Akropol at the other side keeps the fourth position with four games lost. Taby Basket will play against Orongo Dragons (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Akropol will play against Haga Haninge and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Vallingby was quite interesting. 5th ranked Lulea Steelers (6-7) played at the court of sixth ranked KFUM Blackebergs (7-6). KFUM Blackebergs managed to secure a 5-point victory 66-61 on Saturday. KFUM Blackebergs moved-up to fifth place in North. Loser Lulea Steelers dropped to the sixth position with seven games lost. KFUM Blackebergs will meet Hallsta (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Lulea Steelers will play against Talje BK (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Orongo was quite interesting. 5th ranked Lulea Steelers (6-7) played at the court of seventh ranked Orongo Dragons (5-8). Orongo Dragons managed to secure a 7-point victory 70-63. The victory was the third consecutive win for Orongo Dragons. Newly promoted Orongo Dragons maintains seventh place in North with 5-8 record. Lulea Steelers at the other side dropped to the sixth position with seven games lost. Orongo Dragons' next round opponent will be league's second-placed Taby Basket on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
The game in Malmo supposed to be quite interesting. 4th placed Helsingborg (6-4) played at the court of sixth ranked Malbas (5-5). Malbas smashed Helsingborg 94-68 on Sunday. Malbas moved-up to fifth place in South, which they share with Solna Branten. Helsingborg at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fourth position with four games lost. Malbas will face IK Eos (#10) in Lund in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Helsingborg will play at home against Fryshuset (#8) in Stockholm.

Other games of round 13 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
In North Hallsta was defeated by Lidingo in a road game 67-63. Talje beat Uppsala KFUM at home 97-89.
In South Nassjo destroyed Fryshuset on the opponent's court 50-30. Norrkoping BK unfortunately lost to Sanda in a home game 86-95.


Group North
Lidingo - Hallsta 67-63

There was no surprise when 11th ranked Hallsta (2-11) was defeated on the road by ninth ranked Lidingo (4-9) 67-63 on Sunday. Lidingo maintains ninth place in North with 4-9 record. Hallsta lost their seventh game in a row. They dropped to the twelfth position with 11 games lost. Lidingo will face KFUM Uppsala (#10) on the road in the next round. Hallsta will play against KFUM Blackebergs in Vallingby.
gschID: 108745


Blackeberg - Lulea Steel 66-61

The game in Vallingby was quite interesting. 5th ranked Lulea Steelers (6-7) played at the court of sixth ranked KFUM Blackebergs (7-6). KFUM Blackebergs managed to secure a 5-point victory 66-61 on Saturday. KFUM Blackebergs moved-up to fifth place in North. Loser Lulea Steelers dropped to the sixth position with seven games lost. KFUM Blackebergs will meet Hallsta (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Lulea Steelers will play against Talje BK (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 108741


Talje - Uppsala KFUM 97-89

No shocking result in a game when eighth ranked Talje BK (4-8) defeated at home 10th ranked KFUM Uppsala (3-10) 97-89 on Saturday. Talje BK maintains eighth place in North with 4-8 record. Loser KFUM Uppsala keeps the tenth position with ten games lost. Talje BK will face BG Lulea (#11) on the road in the next round. KFUM Uppsala will play against Lidingo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 108742


Akropol - Taby 66-70

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Spanga. Second ranked Taby Basket faced 4th placed Akropol. Guests from Taby (12-1) defeated host Akropol (9-4) 70-66. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Akropol. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Taby Basket. Newly promoted Taby Basket maintains second place in North with 12-1 record having just -1 point less than leader Srbija. Akropol at the other side keeps the fourth position with four games lost. Taby Basket will play against Orongo Dragons (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Akropol will play against Haga Haninge and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 108743


Orongo - Lulea Steel 70-63

The game in Orongo was quite interesting. 5th ranked Lulea Steelers (6-7) played at the court of seventh ranked Orongo Dragons (5-8). Orongo Dragons managed to secure a 7-point victory 70-63. The victory was the third consecutive win for Orongo Dragons. Newly promoted Orongo Dragons maintains seventh place in North with 5-8 record. Lulea Steelers at the other side dropped to the sixth position with seven games lost. Orongo Dragons' next round opponent will be league's second-placed Taby Basket on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
gschID: 108744


Group South
Malbas - Helsingborg 94-68

The game in Malmo supposed to be quite interesting. 4th placed Helsingborg (6-4) played at the court of sixth ranked Malbas (5-5). Malbas smashed Helsingborg 94-68 on Sunday. Malbas moved-up to fifth place in South, which they share with Solna Branten. Helsingborg at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fourth position with four games lost. Malbas will face IK Eos (#10) in Lund in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Helsingborg will play at home against Fryshuset (#8) in Stockholm.
gschID: 108752


Hoganas - Srbija 86-87

The most exciting game of round 13 in the Basketettan took place in Hoganas. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of their biggest opponent Hoganas (8-5) to first ranked Srbija (11-2) 87-86 on Saturday evening. Srbija have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place in South with 11-2 record. Hoganas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the third position with five games lost. Srbija are looking forward to face Kvarnby (#12) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Hoganas will play against Sanda Basket (#7) in Huskvarna and are hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
gschID: 108747


Fryshuset - Nassjo 30-50

Very expected game in Stockholm where 8th ranked Fryshuset (3-6) was rolled over by third ranked Nassjo (8-3) 50-30 on Saturday. Nassjo moved-up to second place in South. Loser Fryshuset keeps the eighth position with six games lost. Nassjo will face Brahe Basket (#9) in Huskvarna in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Fryshuset will play on the road against Helsingborg.
gschID: 108749


Norrkoping BK - Sanda 86-95

Rather predictable result when seventh ranked Sanda Basket (5-7) beat on the road 9th ranked Norrkoping BK (3-8) 95-86 on Sunday. Sanda Basket maintains seventh place in South with 5-7 record. Norrkoping BK lost their fifth game in a row. They dropped to the tenth position with eight games lost. Sanda Basket will face higher ranked Hoganas (#3) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Norrkoping BK will play against Solna Branten (#6).
gschID: 108751




Johnell Smith gets MVP of the Week award for Swedish Basketligan - by Eurobasket News
Experienced American Johnell Smith (186-G-80, agency: Global Sports Plaza) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Sodertalje Kings and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
The 30-year old guard had the game-high 38 points adding eight rebounds for Sodertalje in his team's victory, helping them to edge out LF Basket (#3, 15-6) 87-84. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Sodertalje is placed at 2nd position in Swedish Basketligan. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Sodertalje will need more victories to improve their 14-6 record. Smith turned to be Sodertalje's top player in his first season with the team. University of New Orleans graduate has very impressive stats this year. Smith is league's best scorer averaging so far 21.2ppg. Smith is in league's top in assists (6th best: 4.0apg) and averages solid 3.9spg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old former international center Johan Akesson (210-C-84, agency: Warren Sports International) of LF Basket. Akesson impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds. Of course he lead LF Basket to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Boras (#8, 7-14) 83-62. Despite this victory LF Basket slide down in the standings to 3rd position. His team's 15-6 record is not bad at all. Akesson is well-known by LF Basket fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Demetrius Brown (201-F-83) of 08 (#9). Brown scored 29 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of 08, leading his team to a 89-82 win against slightly lower-ranked Eco Orebro (#10, 4-16). 08 can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 5-15 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Brown he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Brown has a very solid season. In 3 games in Sweden he scored 22.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Johan Akesson (210-C-84) of LF Basket - 15 points and 10 rebounds
5. Leonard Mosley (196-G-79) of Eco Orebro - 16 points, 4 rebounds and 9 assists
6. Alex Wesby (196-G-80) of Sundsvall - 21 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Tyrone Levett (195-G/F-80) of LF Basket - 20 points and 4 rebounds
8. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79) of Norrkoping - 19 points and 5 rebounds
9. Randall Hanke (211-F/C-84) of Norrkoping - 15 points and 6 rebounds
10. Mikael Lindqvist (193-G-83) of Norrkoping - 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Sodertalje Kings edge LF Basket by three points - by Eurobasket News
Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

The most exciting game of round 21 in the Basketligan took place in Sodertalje. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best LF Basket (15-6) to third ranked Sodertalje Kings (14-6) 87-84 in the game for the second place. It was a key game for the second position in the league. LF Basket was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. The best player for the winners was American guard Johnell Smith (186-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who scored 38 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds. Naturalized Bosnian guard Adnan Chuk (193-81, agency: Court Side) chipped in 9 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Sodertalje Kings' coach Vedran Bosnic used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international center Johan Akesson (210-84, agency: Warren Sports International) who recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Sodertalje Kings has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. LF Basket at the other side dropped to the third position with six games lost. Sodertalje Kings are looking forward to face Boras Basket (#8) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. LF Basket will play against Eco Orebro (#10) and is hoping to win this game.
Leader Sundsvall Dragons delivered the sixteenth victory. This time they beat 5th ranked Uppsala Basket (11-9) 96-84. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Uppsala Basket. It was a good game for Irish-Australian swingman Liam Rush (202-82) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Jakob Sigurdarson contributed with 22 points and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Benjamin Smith (178-87, college: Jacksonville) answered with 22 points and 4 assists for Uppsala Basket. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Sundsvall Dragons (16-4) have an impressive series of twelve victories in a row. They maintain first place. Uppsala Basket at the other side keeps the fifth position with nine games lost. Sundsvall Dragons will play against KFUM Jamtland (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Uppsala Basket will play against Norrkoping Dolphins in Norrkoping and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Norrkoping. Local Norrkoping Dolphins (12-6) outscored 6th ranked Solna Vikings (9-11) 90-69 on Tuesday night. Mikael Lindqvist stepped up and scored 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach Kelly Grant felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was Logi Gunnarsson with 24 points, 5 assists and 5 steals. Defending champion maintains fourth place with 12-6 record. Loser Solna Vikings keep the sixth position with 11 games lost. Norrkoping Dolphins will meet Uppsala Basket (#5) on the road in the next round. Solna Vikings will play against 08 Stockholm and hope to secure a win.

In the last two games of round 21 Boras was crushed by LF Basket in Lulea 83-62. 08 beat Eco Orebro at home 89-82.


Norrkoping - Solna 90-69

The game with biggest result difference took place in Norrkoping. Local Norrkoping Dolphins (12-6) outscored 6th ranked Solna Vikings (9-11) 90-69 on Tuesday night. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 90-69. Norrkoping Dolphins dominated on the defensive end, holding Solna Vikings to just 5 points in fourth quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Solna Vikings' 42 and made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Norrkoping Dolphins had a 32-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. International guard Mikael Lindqvist (193-83, agency: Court Side) stepped up and scored 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners and international power forward Joakim Kjellbom (213-79, college: N.Arizona) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. Five Norrkoping Dolphins players scored in double figures. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach Kelly Grant felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was Icelandic guard Logi Gunnarsson (190-81) with 24 points, 5 assists and 5 steals and American forward Adam Constantine (206-88, college: Elon, agency: Strategic Sports) scored 10 points and 8 rebounds. Defending champion maintains fourth place with 12-6 record. Loser Solna Vikings keep the sixth position with 11 games lost. Norrkoping Dolphins will meet Uppsala Basket (#5) on the road in the next round. Solna Vikings will play against 08 Stockholm and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Norrkoping: J.Kjellbom 19+5reb, G.Gervin 15+4reb+1ast, M.Lindqvist 15+6reb+5ast, R.Hanke 15+6reb, O.Ayuba 10+8reb, F.Drains 6+3reb+2ast
Solna: L.Gunnarsson 24+5ast, D.Hult 16+4reb, A.Constantine 10+8reb+3ast, W.Walker 8+10reb+2ast, Y.Merzoug 7+5reb+1ast, A.Lindqvist 2+2reb+2ast
gschID: 94212


Sundsvall - Uppsala 96-84

Leader Sundsvall Dragons delivered the sixteenth victory. This time they beat 5th ranked Uppsala Basket (11-9) 96-84. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Uppsala Basket. The game without a history. Sundsvall Dragons led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 63.2 percent from the field. Sundsvall Dragons had a 23-12 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Sundsvall Dragons especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Uppsala Basket's players. It was a good game for Irish-Australian swingman Liam Rush (202-82) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Icelandic guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birmingham Souther) contributed with 22 points and 4 assists for the winners. Four Sundsvall Dragons players scored in double figures. American guard Benjamin Smith (178-87, college: Jacksonville) answered with 22 points and 4 assists and guard Rickard Eriksson (190-82, agency: Promotex) added 13 points and 4 steals in the effort for Uppsala Basket. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Sundsvall Dragons (16-4) have an impressive series of twelve victories in a row. They maintain first place. Uppsala Basket at the other side keeps the fifth position with nine games lost. Sundsvall Dragons will play against KFUM Jamtland (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Uppsala Basket will play against Norrkoping Dolphins in Norrkoping and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Sundsvall: J.Sigurdarson 22+3reb+4ast, A.Wesby 21+4reb+2ast, L.Rush 20+7reb+3ast, H.Baeringsson 10+10reb+4ast, J.Jeansson 8+2reb+2ast, J.Pierre 4+4ast
Uppsala: B.Smith 22+2reb+4ast, R.Eriksson 13+2reb+1ast, T.Whitworth 10+3reb+1ast, M.Nakos 9+1reb+1ast, H.Magnusson 9+6reb, M.Kohlmaier 7+4reb
gschID: 94213


Sodertalje - LF Basket 87-84

The most exciting game of round 21 in the Basketligan took place in Sodertalje. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best LF Basket (15-6) to third ranked Sodertalje Kings (14-6) 87-84 in the game for the second place. It was a key game for the second position in the league. LF Basket was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. The best player for the winners was American guard Johnell Smith (186-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who scored 38 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds. Naturalized Bosnian guard Adnan Chuk (193-81, agency: Court Side) chipped in 9 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Sodertalje Kings' coach Vedran Bosnic used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international center Johan Akesson (210-84, agency: Warren Sports International) who recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and American swingman Tyrone Levett (195-80, college: Alabama St.) added 20 points respectively. Four LF Basket players scored in double figures. Sodertalje Kings has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. LF Basket at the other side dropped to the third position with six games lost. Sodertalje Kings are looking forward to face Boras Basket (#8) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. LF Basket will play against Eco Orebro (#10) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Sodertalje: J.Smith 38+8reb+1ast, M.Griskenas 13+3reb, D.Pita 12+3reb+3ast, W.Galick 9+2reb+2ast, A.Chuk 9+5reb+4ast, M.Joseph 4
LF Basket: T.Levett 20+4reb+1ast, T.Woodbury 19+4reb+1ast, J.Akesson 15+10reb, R.Mbemba 13+2reb+7ast, H.Larsson 9+1reb+1ast, G.Nystrom 4+2reb
gschID: 94214


LF Basket - Boras 83-62

There was no surprise in Lulea where 8th ranked Boras Basket (7-14) was crushed by second ranked LF Basket (15-6) 83-62 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by LF Basket. Boras Basket managed to win second period 19-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LF Basket outrebounded Boras Basket 41-30 including 31 on the defensive glass. The former international center Johan Akesson (210-84, agency: Warren Sports International) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 14 rebounds for the winners and American swingman Tyrone Levett (195-80, college: Alabama St.) chipped in 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Kellen McCoy (168-87, college: Weber St.) with 21 points and 4 assists and the other American import forward Christopher McKnight (201-87, college: Akron) produced a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Despite that victory LF Basket went down to third position due to points difference. Loser Boras Basket keeps the eighth place with 14 games lost. LF Basket will meet bottom-ranked Eco Orebro (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Boras Basket will play against the league's second-placed Sodertalje Kings and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
LF Basket: J.Akesson 16+14reb+1ast, M.Pahlmblad 16+1reb+2ast, T.Levett 16+8reb+4ast, J.Rosendahl 8+1reb, T.Woodbury 6+9reb, G.Nystrom 6+2reb
Boras: K.McCoy 21+1reb+4ast, C.McKnight 13+10reb, M.Palm 9+9reb+3ast, H.Carlsson 9+2reb+1ast, M.Neffati 7+4reb, F.Andersson 2+2reb
gschID: 94210


08 - Eco Orebro 89-82

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both ninth ranked 08 Stockholm and 10th ranked Eco Orebro had identical 4-15 record. This time 08 Stockholm used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Orebro 89-82 on Tuesday night. Eco Orebro was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. 08 Stockholm made 31-of-36 free shots (86.1 percent) during the game, while Eco Orebro only scored eleven points from the stripe. American forward Demetrius Brown (201-83, college: San Jose St.) stepped up and scored 29 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and the former international center Joakim Blom (211-76, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Leonard Mosley (196-79, college: Oklahoma Baptist) with 16 points and 9 assists and the former international guard Andrew Pleick (196-80, college: Lafayette) scored 14 points and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. 08 Stockholm maintains ninth place with 5-15 record. Loser Eco Orebro stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. 08 Stockholm will meet higher ranked Solna Vikings (#6) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Eco Orebro will play against LF Basket (#3) in Lulea and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
08: D.Brown 29+9reb+2ast, K.Nagwere 17+4reb+2ast, J.Blom 14+8reb+4ast, W.Beck 13+3reb+5ast, J.Westerlund 9+6reb+2ast, N.Hedstrom 5+10reb+1ast
Eco Orebro: S.Smith 17+3reb, L.Mosley 16+4reb+9ast, A.Pleick 14+4reb+4ast, O.Lindell 12+9reb, E.Saleman 9+1reb+1ast, P.Cipriano 8+8reb
gschID: 94211




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


Yates' double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
27-year old forward Ronald Yates (201-F-83) put on an amazing game in the last round for Monthey and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15.
He had a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds, while his team beat BBC Nyon (#9, 2-13) 90-80. Monthey maintains the 5th position in Swiss league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Monthey will need more victories to improve their 9-6 record. Yates turned to be Monthey's top player in his first season with the team. St.Peter's College graduate has very impressive stats this year. Yates is in league's top in points (8th best: 18.0ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 9.0rpg) and averages solid 56.3% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was John Ofoegbu (206-C-84) of SAM Massagno. He is American center in his first season at SAM Massagno. In the last game Ofoegbu recorded impressive double-double of 21 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as SAM Massagno lost that game 81-87 to slightly higher-ranked Boncourt (#6, 7-8). SAM Massagno is still second from the bottom in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 5-10 record. Ofoegbu is a newcomer at SAM Massagno and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to center Tony Gugino (207-C-86) of Boncourt (#6). Gugino scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of Boncourt, leading his team to a 87-81 win against slightly lower-ranked SAM Massagno (#8, 5-10). The chances of Boncourt ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 8 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Gugino could help Boncourt to bring them higher in the standings. Gugino has a great season in Switzerland. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.3rpg (5th best). He also has 2.7spg, 1.7bpg and FGP: 52.8%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Babacar Toure (205-F/C-85) of Geneve Lions - 18 points and 13 rebounds
5. Byron Sanders (207-C-83) of Lugano Tigers - 12 points and 14 rebounds
6. Arizona Reid (196-F-86) of Monthey - 21 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Lester Hunte (196-G/F-88) of BBC Nyon - 23 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
8. John Sharper (186-G-84) of Monthey - 15 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85) of Lugano Tigers - 24 points and 2 rebounds
10. Marcus Sloan (205-F-82) of Geneve Lions - 9 points and 11 rebounds

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Stats Leaders LNA
Points Per Game
 Shorown GLOVER
  Boncourt
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 22.7
 1. Glover, Boncourt22.7 
 2. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.21.5 
 3. Abukar, Lugano T.21.3 
 4. Brown, Starwings20.1 
 5. Polyblank, Geneve L.20.1 
 6. Popovich, SAV V.19.9 
 7. Smith, Fribourg18.6 
 8. Yates, Starwings18.6 
 9. Martin, BBC Nyon18.6 
 10. Byron, BBC Nyon17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 13.6
 1. Daniels, BBC Nyon13.6 
 2. Yates, Starwings10.0 
 3. Ofoegbu, SAM M.9.9 
 4. Thompson, Starw.9.5 
 5. Gugino, Boncourt9.3 
 6. Sloan, Geneve Lions8.4 
 7. Dos Santos, Bonco.8.3 
 8. Smith, Fribourg8.1 
 9. Finn, Lugano Tigers8.0 
 10. Dacevic, SAV V.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7
 1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo7.0 
 2. Glover, Boncourt6.1 
 3. Draughan, Lugano T.4.7 
 4. Brown, Starwings4.5 
 5. Angley, Lugano T.4.5 
 6. Ross, Geneve Lions4.1 
 7. Petkovic, Fribourg4.1 
 8. Buscaglia, Fribourg4.0 
 9. Louissaint, Month.3.9 
 10. Esterkamp, Fribo.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Shorown GLOVER
  Boncourt
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 4.4
 1. Glover, Boncourt4.4 
 2. Gibson, SAV Vacallo3.4 
 3. Angley, Lugano T.2.9 
 4. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.2.7 
 5. Gugino, Boncourt2.7 
 6. Draughan, Lugano T.2.7 
 7. Sharper, Monthey2.3 
 8. Hawkins, SAM M.2.1 
 9. Louissaint, Month.2.1 
 10. Efevberha, Lugano T.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Daniels, BBC Nyon3.3 
 2. Toure, Geneve Lions2.2 
 3. Gugino, Boncourt1.7 
 4. Lukic, Zurich W.1.7 
 5. Thompson, Starw.1.5 
 6. Sloan, Geneve Lions1.4 
 7. Sanders, Lugano T.1.3 
 8. Moris, Monthey1.2 
 9. Ferguson, Zurich W.0.9 
 10. Hawkins, SAM M.0.9 


*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Emmanuel JONES
  Taiwan Beer
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 20
 1. Jones, Taiwan Beer20.0 
 2. Chang, KKL19.2 
 3. Dove, Taiwan Mobile17.5 
 4. Jennings, Pure Y.17.0 
 5. Chen, Bank o.15.7 
 6. Hawkins, KKL15.0 
 7. Tien, Dacin Tigers14.8 
 8. Gayden, Dacin T.14.7 
 9. Chen, KKL14.6 
 10. Su, Taiwan Mobile14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rashad JENNINGS
  Pure Youth
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 20
 1. Jennings, Pure Y.20.0 
 2. Dove, Taiwan Mobile13.0 
 3. Gayden, Dacin T.12.8 
 4. Hawkins, KKL12.7 
 5. Jones, Taiwan Beer12.6 
 6. Faulknor, Bank o.12.3 
 7. Tseng, Yulon Luxgen9.6 
 8. Wu, Yulon Luxgen9.3 
 9. Tien, Dacin Tigers9.2 
 10. Chien, Pure Youth7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Yung-Jen WU
  Taiwan Mobile
  (177-G-82)
  Avg: 4
 1. Wu, Taiwan Mobile4.0 
 2. Chen, Taiwan Beer3.4 
 3. Su, Taiwan Mobile3.3 
 4. Chen, Bank o.3.2 
 5. Lin, Bank o.3.0 
 6. Chen, Yulon Luxgen2.9 
 7. Hsu, Dacin Tigers2.7 
 8. Lin, KKL2.6 
 9. Chen, KKL2.6 
 10. Mao, Pure Youth2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus DOVE
  Taiwan Mobile
  (206-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Dove, Taiwan Mobile2.3 
 2. Hawkins, KKL2.0 
 3. Chou, Yulon Luxgen2.0 
 4. Mao, Pure Youth1.8 
 5. Lin, Bank o.1.7 
 6. Yang, Taiwan Beer1.6 
 7. Faulknor, Bank o.1.5 
 8. Su, Taiwan Mobile1.5 
 9. Lin, KKL1.4 
 10. Chen, KKL1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Wen-Ting TSENG
  Yulon Luxgen
  (202-C/F-84)
  Avg: 4.6
 1. Tseng, Yulon Luxgen4.6 
 2. Wu, Taiwan Beer2.0 
 3. Tien, Dacin Tigers1.8 
 4. Dove, Taiwan Mobile1.7 
 5. Chen, Bank o.1.3 
 6. Cheng, Taiwan Beer1.0 
 7. Gayden, Dacin T.1.0 
 8. Jennings, Pure Y.1.0 
 9. Lee, KKL0.9 
 10. Jones, Taiwan Beer0.9 


SBL results Jan. 8-12 - by Chris Wang
Quick summary:
-- Yulon has been in a slump, having lost three of its last four games. According to head coach Zhang Xuelei, it probably had to do with the unclear status of starting center Tseng Wen-ting, whose contract with Yulon will expire on Jan. 15. Tseng is said to possibly sign with Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese league CBA.

-- On the other hand, newcomer Wu Chien-lung, who played with PY last season, has fit in well with Yulon in the power forward position. Wu is averaging 8.4 points and 8.6 rebounds per game.

-- Pure Youth import Jennings Rashad (203-F-84, college: UALR) has turned in three straight 20-20s in the last three games, reportedly the first player to accomplish the feat in SBL history. (Although I doubt it. Former PY import Jon Sanders was probably the first one to do that? Anyway, I'm not sure.)

Jones, a former NCAA Division I rebounding champ, is averaging 18.1 points and 20.6 boards per game.

-- TSNA news agency reported that BOT import Jason Faulknor sustained a pretty serious back injury in a game against Dacin last week and is currently in rehab. Faulknor probably needs a surgery and a rehabilitation period of six months. He did not play tonight against league leader Taiwan Beer. According to TSNA, Faulknor is signed through the end of March and has expressed his wish to stay in Taiwan for rehab. However, BOT has started to look for replacement.

Jan. 8
Dacin 84-81 TB
Dacin: K. Gayden 20p+12rb, Lin Yi-hui 15p, Tien Lei 10p+7rb+5a, Hsu Hao-cheng 14p
TB: E. Jones 28p+16rb, Yang Ching-min 14p, Cheng Jen-wei 13p

Yulon 79-72 KKL
Yulon: Wu Chien-lung 16p+11rb, Tseng Wen-ting 15p+10rb, Lu Cheng-ju 13p+7rb
KKL: S. Hawkins 17p+10rb, CHang Jung-hsuan 17p, Chen Ching-huan 15p

PY 81-69 BOT
PY: R. Jones-Jennings 27p+24rb, Hong Chih-shan 14p
BOT: Chen Shun-hsiang 15p, J. Faulknor 9p+11rb, Hsu Chi-chang 13p

Jan. 9
TM 82-70 Dacin
TM: Wu Yong-jen 17p+6rb+4a, Su Yi-chieh 16p, Ouyang Ching-heng 14p, M. Dove 12p+14rb
Dacin: Tien Lei 20p+7rb, K. Gayden 12p+11rb

PY 89-53 KKL
PY: R. Jones-Jennings 23p+25rb, Tsai Wen-cheng 15p, Chang Yu-lin 13p
KKL: Chen Ching-huan 15p, S. Hawkins 12p+12rb

TB 77-52 Yulon
TB: E. Jones 17p+12rb, Yang Ching-min 12p
Yulon: Yang Che-yi 9p, Tseng Wen-ting 6p (2-13 FG)

Jan. 12
TB 71-62 BOT
TB: Yang Ching-min 14p, D. Creighton 11p, Yang Yu-ming 11p
BOT: Chen Shun-hsiang 13p, Chen Jun-chieh 14p

PY 85-72 Yulon
PY: R. Jones-Jennings 26p+25rb, Chien Chia-hong 16p, Tsai Wen-cheng 15p
Yulon: Tseng Wen-ting 15p+11rb+5a, Chen Chih-chun 14p, Lu Cheng-ju 14p

Standings:
TB 7-1
PY 6-2
Yulon 4-4
Dacin 3-3
TM 2-4
BOT 2-5
KKL 1-6



SBL Week 3 MVP: Rashad Jones-Jennings - by Chris Wang
Pure Youth Construction import Jennings Rashad (203-F-84, college: UALR), who averaged 23.6 points and 22.3 rebounds last week, was named SBL Week 3 MVP and became the first foreign player to win the weekly honor this season.

The American player received 38 points in the media poll to beat out Taiwan Beer import Emmanuel Jones, who had 15 points, for the award.

'Jennings has helped the team a lot on the defensive end and in the rebounding department, ' PY head coach Hsu Chin-tse said, adding that Jenning has been in better physical condition and had no problem to keep up with his quicker teammates.

The former NCAA Division I rebounding champion was quoted as saying that he believed that he would be playing a lot better after his injury is fully recovered.

2010-11 SBL Weekly MVPs:
Week 3: Jennings Rashad (PY)
Week 2: Yang Ching-min (TB)
Week 1: Tseng Wen-ting (Yulon)

*****************************************************
  TUNISIA   


D1 Round 18 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
There were many interesting games last round. The round ended with derby games, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The biggest surprise of round 18 was guest Club Africain's (9-9) road victory over U.S. Monastir (#7) 75-62 on Wednesday evening. Club Africain moved-up to fifth place. U.S. Monastir at the other side dropped to the sixth position with ten games lost. They share it with JS Kairouan and C Cheminots.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Nabeul. First ranked Stade Nabeulien faced 4th ranked ES Rades. Host Stade Nabeulien (17-1) defeated guests from Rades (10-8) 70-60. Stade Nabeulien have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-1 record, which they share with ES Sahel. ES Rades at the other side keep the fourth place with eight games lost.
Bottom-ranked E.O.G. Kram managed to get the second consecutive victory on Wednesday night. This time they won against ninth-ranked JS Manazeh 82-69. E.O.G. Kram (4-14) moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with C Tunisair. Loser JS Manazeh keeps the ninth position with 12 games lost.
The game in Kairouan was quite interesting. Second ranked ES Sahel (17-1) played at the court of 5th ranked JS Kairouan (8-10). ES Sahel defeated JS Kairouan 73-63. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of JS Kairouan. ES Sahel have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Stade Nabeulien. JS Kairouan at the other side dropped to the sixth place with ten games lost. A very interesting game took place in Tunis. It ended with only one-point home defeat of 11th ranked C.Tunisair (4-14) to eighth ranked C.S. Cheminots (8-10) 57-56 on Wednesday evening. C.S. Cheminots moved-up to sixth place, which they share with US Monastir and JS Kairouan. C.Tunisair lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 14 games lost. Bo

In the last game of round 18 Ezzahra defeated CA Bizerte in a road game 64-58.

Stade Nabeulien - ES Rades 70-60

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Nabeul. First ranked Stade Nabeulien faced 4th ranked ES Rades. Host Stade Nabeulien (17-1) defeated guests from Rades (10-8) 70-60. Stade Nabeulien have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-1 record, which they share with ES Sahel. ES Rades at the other side keep the fourth place with eight games lost.
gschID: 120235


C Tunisair - C Cheminots 56-57

A very interesting game took place in Tunis. It ended with only one-point home defeat of 11th ranked C.Tunisair (4-14) to eighth ranked C.S. Cheminots (8-10) 57-56 on Wednesday evening. C.S. Cheminots moved-up to sixth place, which they share with US Monastir and JS Kairouan. C.Tunisair lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 14 games lost.

CA Bizerte - Ezzahra 58-64

There was no surprise in Bizertin where 10th ranked CA Bizerte (5-13) was defeated by third ranked Ezzahra (12-6) 64-58 on Wednesday. Ezzahra maintains third position with 12-6 record having five points less than leader ES Sahel. CA Bizerte lost eleventh consecutive game. They keep the tenth place with 13 games lost.
gschID: 120233


US Monastir - C Africain 62-75

The biggest surprise of round 18 was guest Club Africain's (9-9) road victory over U.S. Monastir (#7) 75-62 on Wednesday evening. Club Africain moved-up to fifth place. U.S. Monastir at the other side dropped to the sixth position with ten games lost. They share it with JS Kairouan and C Cheminots.

JS Kairouan - ES Sahel 63-73

The game in Kairouan was quite interesting. Second ranked ES Sahel (17-1) played at the court of 5th ranked JS Kairouan (8-10). ES Sahel defeated JS Kairouan 73-63. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of JS Kairouan. ES Sahel have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Stade Nabeulien. JS Kairouan at the other side dropped to the sixth place with ten games lost.
gschID: 120230


EOG Kram - JS Manazeh 82-69

Bottom-ranked E.O.G. Kram managed to get the second consecutive victory on Wednesday night. This time they won against ninth-ranked JS Manazeh 82-69. E.O.G. Kram (4-14) moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with C Tunisair. Loser JS Manazeh keeps the ninth position with 12 games lost.



Standings - D1
D1 Standings
 1. ES Sahel 18-1 
 2. Stade Nabeulien 17-1 
 3. Ezzahra 12-6 
 4. ES Rades 10-8 
 5. C Africain 10-9 
 6. JS Kairouan 9-10 
 7. C Cheminots 8-10 
 8. US Monastir 8-11 
 9. JS Manazeh 6-13 
 10. CA Bizerte 5-14 
 11. EOG Kram 5-14 
 12. C Tunisair 4-15 


*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Ali KARADENIZ
  Trabzonspor
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 21.1
 1. Karadeniz, Trabzons.21.1 
 2. Scales, Mersin19.2 
 3. Smith, Karsiyaka18.8 
 4. Barbour, Erdemir18.4 
 5. Randle, Aliaga18.3 
 6. Seibutis, Olin Edirne18.3 
 7. Smith, Bornova18.2 
 8. Gibson, Oyak R.18.1 
 9. Mays, Oyak Renault17.9 
 10. Christopher, Antal.17.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nedim YUCEL
  Mersin
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Yucel, Mersin11.2 
 2. Thomas, Erdemir11.1 
 3. Samardjiski, Olin E.9.9 
 4. Mays, Oyak Renault9.7 
 5. Aldemir, Karsiyaka9.3 
 6. Wesson, Turk T.9.1 
 7. Smith, Bornova8.8 
 8. Karadeniz, Trabzons.8.5 
 9. Ruzic, Tofas8.2 
 10. Guler, Antalya7.9 
Assists Per Game
 David HOLSTON
  Karsiyaka
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 6
 1. Holston, Karsiyaka6.0 
 2. Rasic, Trabzonspor5.4 
 3. Ermis, Banvit5.0 
 4. Chatman, Besiktas4.8 
 5. Iverson, Besiktas4.7 
 6. Rowe, Tofas4.7 
 7. Seibutis, Olin Edirne4.6 
 8. Acik, Galatasaray4.5 
 9. Akin, Olin Edirne4.1 
 10. Randle, Aliaga4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Austin T.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Coleman, Aliaga3.1 
 2. Mays, Oyak Renault2.5 
 3. Fitch, Aliaga2.5 
 4. Waller, Oyak Renault2.4 
 5. Holston, Karsiyaka2.4 
 6. Scales, Mersin2.0 
 7. Chatman, Besiktas2.0 
 8. Gibson, Oyak R.2.0 
 9. Rowe, Tofas1.9 
 10. Prince, Antalya1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Predrag SAMARDJISKI
  Olin Edirne
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Samardjiski, Olin E.2.3 
 2. Stiemsma, Turk T.2.1 
 3. Simpsons, Turk T.1.5 
 4. Likholitov, Besiktas1.4 
 5. Francis, Bornova1.3 
 6. Aldemir, Karsiyaka1.2 
 7. Johnson, Erdemir1.2 
 8. Ogilvy, Besiktas1.1 
 9. Ruzic, Tofas1.1 
 10. Koc, Tofas0.9 


TB2L Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Tolga TEKINALP
  ITU
  (202-F-74)
  Avg: 21.1
 1. Tekinalp, ITU21.1 
 2. Johnson, Vestel20.8 
 3. Hall, Kepez Bld19.9 
 4. Gardener, Final G.19.1 
 5. Dearman, Hacett.18.5 
 6. Boswell, Basaksehir18.3 
 7. Wright, Orman Genc18.2 
 8. Nelson, Akhisar Bld17.8 
 9. Kan, TED Istanbul16.4 
 10. Inan, Beykoz16.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gentry LEWIS
  Beykoz
  (206-F/C-81)
  Avg: 13.2
 1. Lewis, Beykoz13.2 
 2. Terell, Adanaspor11.9 
 3. Johnson, Vestel11.5 
 4. Gardener, Final G.11.3 
 5. Isik, Pertevniyal10.5 
 6. Nelson, Akhisar Bld9.5 
 7. Kolaric, Genc Banvit9.4 
 8. Wright, Orman Genc9.3 
 9. Boswell, Basaksehir9.2 
 10. Toyloy, Istanbul.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Can Ugur OGUT
  Turk Telekom
  (178-G-92)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Ogut, Genc Telekom5.7 
 2. Hall, Kepez Bld5.5 
 3. Kan, TED Istanbul5.5 
 4. Kavut, Optimum TED5.5 
 5. Topcu, Gelisim5.1 
 6. Ay, Final Genclik4.8 
 7. Yikilmaz, Pertevniyal4.6 
 8. Topcu, Izmir B.B.4.6 
 9. Bayrak, Usak4.4 
 10. Sinanoglu, Usak4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus HALL
  Kepez Bld
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Hall, Kepez Bld3.1 
 2. Yonder, Genc Banvit2.4 
 3. Akcay, Genc T.2.3 
 4. Korkmaz, Pertevni.2.3 
 5. Karabulut, Orman G.2.3 
 6. Ozdemir, Kepez Bld2.0 
 7. Terzioglu, Gelisim2.0 
 8. Ogut, Genc Telekom1.9 
 9. Demircioglu, Istanb.1.8 
 10. Inan, Beykoz1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Ater MAJOK
  Wildcats
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Majok, FMV I.3.1 
 2. Johnson, Vestel2.2 
 3. Toyloy, Istanbul.1.8 
 4. McGowan, Akhisar .1.8 
 5. Smith, Usak1.5 
 6. Boswell, Basaksehir1.5 
 7. Terell, Adanaspor1.3 
 8. Tekin, Pertevniyal1.2 
 9. Gardener, Final G.1.2 
 10. Clarkson, TED I.1.1 


Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Fener.Ulker 12-2 
 2. Banvit 12-2 
 3. Galatasaray 11-3 
 4. Efes Pilsen 10-4 
 5. Karsiyaka 9-5 
 6. Besiktas 8-6 
 7. Antalya 8-6 
 8. Olin Edirne 8-6 
 9. Turk Telekom 7-7 
 10. Bornova 5-9 
 11. Trabzonspor 5-9 
 12. Tofas 5-9 
 13. Aliaga 4-10 
 14. Erdemir 3-11 
 15. Mersin 3-11 
 16. Oyak Renault 2-12 


Dearman number one in Turkish TB2L for round 12 - by Eurobasket News
American power forward Jermaine Dearman (202-F/C-80) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Hacettepe University, receiving a Eurobasket.com TB2L Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds, while his team crushed Beykoz (#9, 4-8) with 20-point margin 85-65. Hacettepe University maintains the 3rd position in Turkish TB2L. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Hacettepe University will need more victories to improve their 9-3 record. It's Dearman's second year at Hacettepe University and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Former Southern Illinois University star has very solid stats this year. Dearman is in league's top in points (5th best: 18.5ppg) and averages impressive 65.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 32-year old Uzbekistani Deniz Gokay (205-C-78) of Adanaspor. Gokay had a very good evening with a double-double of 21 points and 21 rebounds. Of course Adanaspor cruised to a 83-76 overtime win over Izmir B.B. (#12, 0-12). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the top position in group A. Adanaspor keeps 11th position. 9 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Adanaspor managed to get this year. Gokay is one of the most experienced players at Adanaspor and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was Serbian forward Mesut Ademoglu (207-F/C-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) of league's second-best Kepez Bld Antalya. Ademoglu scored 26 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Ademoglu's great performance Kepez Bld lost 78-84 to the lower-ranked Istanbulspor (#6, 6-6). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Kepez Bld needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams in group B. Their record is 9 victories and 3 lost games. Ademoglu has a very solid season. In 12 games in Turkey he scored 10.8ppg. Mesut Ademoglu has also Turkish passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Cenk Sekeroglu (200-F-91) of Genc Banvit - 20 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Orcun Okkali (192-F-87) of Istanbulspor - 18 points and 14 rebounds
6. Dane Johnson (208-C-86) of Istanbul B.B. - 16 points and 20 rebounds
7. Kristian Clarkson (202-F-84) of TED Istanbul - 19 points and 13 rebounds
8. Erkan Inan (192-G-89) of Beykoz - 32 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Arthur Johnson (206-F/C-81) of Vestel - 20 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Brian Boddicker (204-F-81) of Selcuk Univ. - 20 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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


Inter-Island Basketball League Games Begin Jan. 21 - by David Edole
The Hurricane Basketball League is only days away from kicking-off its inaugural season. With opening night set for Friday, Jan. 21, the anticipation for the first ever inter-island basketball league in the Virgin Islands could not be at a higher level.
The teams representing St. Croix are the Heat, the Lightning and the X-Men. Representing St. Thomas are the Aces, the Magic and the Legends; representing Tortola are the Soldiers and the Dynasty. With rosters set, the coaches are making their final adjustments in preparations for what should be some of the most competitive basketball this territory has witnessed.
Each team will play 16 regular season games. Games will be played at the Central High School Gymnasium on St. Croix, the Charlotte Amalie High School Gymnasium on St. Thomas, and the Multipurpose Sports Complex on Tortola. For up to date and in-depth information, including statistics, schedules and rosters, visit www.hblvi.com.


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


Last transactions news in ukrainian clubs - by Alexei Revenko
Hoverla Ivano-Frankivsk cancel contract with lithuanian forward Aivaras Kiausas (199-F-80). Aivaras join team in 2008. This season he played 22 games scored 3.5 points and 1.6 rebounds. A 31 years old latvian forward Juris Umbrasko (197-G/F-79) on try-out in MBC Mykolaiv. Juris first visit in Ukraine was in 2005. He played in Khimik-OPZ Yuzny. During his career in Ukraine he also played in SK Cherkasy Monkeys, Politekhnika-Halychyna and SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk where he played last season and scored 13.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.9 asissts.

Efejuku leaves Ferro-ZNTU - by Alexei Revenko
Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye cancel contract with 24 years old forward Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence). He join team this season. 2010/2011 he start in CEZ Basketball Nymburk where played 5 games in regular season Adriatic League. Oritseweinmi scored 3.4 points and 1.2 rebounds per game. Also he played 2 games in Euroleague (9.5 points and 2.0 rebounds). After that he moved to ukrainian team where played 12 games and scored 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.3 asissts per game.

Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 23.7
 1. Burtt, Dnipro23.7 
 2. Burns, Fe.19.4 
 3. Curry, Azovmash17.9 
 4. Flores, BC Donetsk16.2 
 5. Washington, BC Od.16.1 
 6. Williams, Halychyna16.1 
 7. DeGroat, BC Odessa15.3 
 8. Efejuku, Fe.15.2 
 9. Wiggins, Halychyna15.0 
 10. Morrison, Halyc.15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alan WIGGINS
  Halychyna
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Wiggins, Halychyna9.2 
 2. Morrison, Halyc.8.6 
 3. Burns, Fe.8.5 
 4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv7.3 
 5. Austin, Dnipro7.2 
 6. Chappell, Hoverla6.8 
 7. Owens, Azovmash6.8 
 8. Thomas, Azovmash6.8 
 9. DeGroat, BC Odessa6.6 
 10. Greene, Mykolaiv6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Millage, Khimik5.1 
 2. Zimmerman, Hoverla5.0 
 3. Vasiljevic, BC Do.4.7 
 4. Funn, Halychyna4.7 
 5. Burtt, Dnipro4.7 
 6. Brewer, BC Odessa4.5 
 7. Sirsnins, DniproAzot4.4 
 8. Curry, Azovmash4.0 
 9. Hinnant, Kryvbasb.3.7 
 10. Swanson, Hoverla3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Millage, Khimik2.6 
 2. Love, Mykolaiv1.8 
 3. House, Azovmash1.7 
 4. Burns, Fe.1.7 
 5. Greene, Mykolaiv1.6 
 6. Riabchuk, BC Kyiv1.5 
 7. Funn, Halychyna1.4 
 8. Zimmerman, Hoverla1.4 
 9. Kolchenko, Khimik1.3 
 10. Chappell, Hoverla1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Hughes, Mykolaiv2.4 
 2. Kravtsov, BC Do.2.2 
 3. Hunter, Fe.1.7 
 4. Pettway, Dnipro1.6 
 5. Agafonov, Budiv.1.4 
 6. Morrison, Halyc.1.3 
 7. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.1.3 
 8. Turner, BC Odessa1.3 
 9. Onufriyev, Mykolaiv1.3 
 10. Gilyevych, Mykolaiv1.1 


Standings - Superleague
Superleague Standings
 1. Budivelnyk 20-5 
 2. BC Donetsk 20-5 
 3. Hoverla 16-9 
 4. Azovmash 15-10 
 5. Kryvbasbasket 15-10 
 6. Dnipro 14-11 
 7. Ferro-ZNTU 12-14 
 8. Mykolaiv 11-13 
 9. BC Odessa 11-14 
 10. DniproAzot 9-15 
 11. Khimik 7-18 
 12. Halychyna 7-18 
 13. BC Kyiv 5-20 


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


Standings - LUB
LUB Standings
 1. Malvin 5-0 
 2. Defensor 4-1 
 3. Trouville 4-1 
 4. Aguada 3-2 
 5. Bigua 2-3 
 6. Hebraica 2-3 
 7. Welcome 2-3 
 8. Olimpia 1-3 
 9. Cordon 1-3 
 10. Bohemios 0-5 


Stats Leaders - LUB
Points Per Game
 Johwen VILLEGAS
  Olimpia
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 28.2
 1. Villegas, Olimpia28.2 
 2. Maxey, Un.Atletica25.0 
 3. Craft, Cordon24.9 
 4. McGowan, Sayago24.7 
 5. Cornley, Cader24.3 
 6. Aguiar, Hebraica23.1 
 7. Taboada, Bigua22.5 
 8. Hayes, Cordon21.3 
 9. Woodward, Defensor20.2 
 10. Martinez, Malvin20.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Terrance GAMBLE
  Cader
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Gamble, Cader12.8 
 2. Shelman, Sayago11.2 
 3. Rogers, Un.Atletica10.6 
 4. Jackson, Anastasia10.2 
 5. McGowan, Sayago9.7 
 6. Dilligard, Olimpia9.6 
 7. Wilborn, Bigua9.4 
 8. Reynolds, Hebraica9.4 
 9. Puckett, Aguada9.2 
 10. Kanis, Trouville9.2 
Assists Per Game
 Mauro TORNARIA
  Trouville
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 6
 1. Tornaria, Trouville6.0 
 2. Martinez, Malvin5.8 
 3. Elliott, Hebraica5.5 
 4. Cambon, Bigua5.2 
 5. Pereyra, Bohemios5.2 
 6. Gonzalez, Defensor5.1 
 7. Vidal, Bigua5.1 
 8. Latham, Anastasia4.8 
 9. Muro, Aguada4.8 
 10. Rivero, Montevideo4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Carl ELLIOTT
  Cocodrilos
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 3
 1. Elliott, Hebraica3.0 
 2. Tornaria, Trouville2.6 
 3. Rivero, Montevideo2.3 
 4. Rovira, Bigua2.2 
 5. Latham, Anastasia2.2 
 6. Shelman, Sayago2.0 
 7. Woodward, Defensor2.0 
 8. Galeano, Olimpia2.0 
 9. Thomas, Cader2.0 
 10. Osimani, Montevideo1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Greg DILLIGARD
  Olimpia
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Dilligard, Olimpia4.2 
 2. Rogers, Un.Atletica2.7 
 3. Wilborn, Bigua2.4 
 4. Newsome, Malvin2.3 
 5. Ferguson, Defensor2.2 
 6. Bortz, Malvin2.1 
 7. Douglas, Bohemios2.0 
 8. Shelman, Sayago1.9 
 9. Gamble, Cader1.9 
 10. Kanis, Trouville1.8 


Defensor, the defending champions, beat Bigua - by Hector Lopez
Diego Castrillon (199-F-75) netted a 2-point shot at the last second and Defensor Sporting, the defending champions, beat Bigua 94-93 for the LUB 5th round 2nd stage. For Defensor Sporting Clerence Matthews (201-F-83, college: Tennessee St.) scored 31 points out of 40 (77.5%) and grabbed 15 rebounds and added two blocks, while Brian Woodward (191-G-81, college: Rhode Island) netted 15 points. For Bigua Emilio Taboada (191-F-82) scored 28 points, Michael Sweetney (203-F-82, college: Georgetown) 16 poiints and 6 rebounds and Elgrace Wilborn (203-F-83, college: W.Kentucky) added 11 points with 3 rebounds and 6 blocks. Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) with 2 seconds to play scored scoerd a 3-point shot when Welcome beat Hebraica Macabi 87-86. The main players for Welcome were Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) 29 points and 4 rebounds, Scott Cutley (196-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) 14 points 9 rebounds and Moglia 16 points and 4 rebounds. For Hebraica Mauricio Aguiar (197-F-83, agency: Players Group) 24 points, Matt Freije (207-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) 22 points 8 rebounds and Antonio Garcia (203-F/C-76, college: Ky Wesleyan) 8 points 12 rebounds..



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

Women News

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE - Women  


Round 14: Merkur Celje is upset by Celik - by Eurobasket News
The most important game in the last round took place in Zenica between second ranked Slovenian Merkur Celje (11-3) and eighth ranked Bosnian Celik (6-7) on Saturday night. Merkur Celje was defeated by Celik on the road 77-66. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Merkur Celje. The game was mostly controlled by Celik. Merkur Celje managed to win second period 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 27 personal fouls committed by Merkur Celje helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was guard Rada Vidovic (177-79) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Center Aida Pilav (187-87) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. Croatian guard Monika Bosilj (178-85, college: Florida Intern.) produced 17 points for the guests. Celik has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Radivoj Korac. Merkur Celje at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Partizan. Celik is looking forward to face higher ranked Partizan (#3) in Beograd in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Merkur Celje will play at home against Jedinstvo BP in Bijelo Polje and is hoping to win this game.
Croatian leader Gospic delivered the twelfth victory. This time they crushed 11th ranked Slovenian AJM Maribor (3-11) 104-59. Guard Jelena Ivezic (184-84) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Sandra Mandir contributed with 17 points for the winners. Gospic's coach felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Martina Dover (177-86) replied with 20 points and 6 rebounds for AJM Maribor. Gospic (12-1) have an impressive 12-game winning streak. Defending Croatian champion maintains first position. AJM Maribor lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with 11 games lost. Gospic will play against Lupa Promotion (#8) in Novi Zagreb in the next round and are hoping to win another game. AJM Maribor will play at home against ZKK Medvescak in Zagreb and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Novi Zagreb was quite interesting. Third ranked Serbian Partizan (11-3) played at the court of 7th ranked Croatian Lupa Promotion (6-8). Partizan defeated Lupa Promotion 75-64 on Saturday. Dajana Butulija scored 15 points and 4 steals to lead the charge for the winners. Partizan's coach Marina Maljkovic used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Britany Miller responded with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds. Defending Serbian champion moved-up to second place, which they share with Merkur Celje. Newly promoted Lupa Promotion dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. Partizan will meet at home Celik (#7) in the next round where they are favorite. Lupa Promotion will play against the league's leader Gospic and hope to secure a win.
The game in Beograd supposed to be quite interesting. Fourth ranked Croatian Jolly (8-4) played at the court of 6th ranked Serbian Radivoj Korac (6-7). Jolly smashed Radivoj Korac 78-54. Luca Ivankovic notched a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort. Radivoj Korac's coach Dragan Vukovic gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Jolly maintains fourth position with 8-4 record. Radivoj Korac at the other side keeps the sixth place with seven games lost. Jolly's next round opponent will be Vojvodina (#9) in Novi Sad where they are favorite. Radivoj Korac's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Beograd to the arena Vozdovac.

In the last two games of round 14 Vojvodina crushed Medvescak in Novi Sad 80-59. Jedinstvo BP smashed Vozdovac at home 73-52.


Lupa Promot. - Partizan 64-75

The game in Novi Zagreb was quite interesting. Third ranked Serbian Partizan (11-3) played at the court of 7th ranked Croatian Lupa Promotion (6-8). Partizan defeated Lupa Promotion 75-64 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 11 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-64. Partizan forced 26 Lupa Promotion turnovers. Guard Dajana Butulija (175-86) scored 15 points and 4 steals to lead the charge for the winners and guard Dunja Prcic (180-87) chipped in 14 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Partizan's coach Marina Maljkovic used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American center Britany Miller (193-87, college: Florida St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds and guard Irena Cuncic (175-86) scored 14 points and 6 assists. Defending Serbian champion moved-up to second place, which they share with Merkur Celje. Newly promoted Lupa Promotion dropped to the eighth position with eight games lost. Partizan will meet at home Celik (#7) in the next round where they are favorite. Lupa Promotion will play against the league's leader Gospic and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Partizan: M.Dabovic 18, D.Butulija 15+4reb+3ast, D.Prcic 14+6reb+2ast, S.Moore 9+2reb+4ast, B.Jankovic 8+4reb, N.Bucevac 5+2reb+1ast
Lupa Promot.: B.Miller 14+13reb, J.Vukoje 14+3reb+2ast, I.Cuncic 14+3reb+6ast, I.Matic 8+8reb+1ast, A.Cacic 6+6reb+1ast, P.Prgomet 6
gschID: 109307


AJM Maribor - Gospic 59-104

Croatian leader Gospic delivered the twelfth victory. This time they crushed 11th ranked Slovenian AJM Maribor (3-11) 104-59. The game without a history. Gospic led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Gospic outrebounded AJM Maribor 45-26 including a 37-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. Guard Jelena Ivezic (184-84) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds. Guard Sandra Mandir (177-77) contributed with 17 points for the winners. Four Gospic players scored in double figures. Gospic's coach felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Martina Dover (177-86) replied with 20 points and 6 rebounds and guard Ljubica Kure (178-81) added 17 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for AJM Maribor. Gospic (12-1) have an impressive 12-game winning streak. Defending Croatian champion maintains first position. AJM Maribor lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with 11 games lost. Gospic will play against Lupa Promotion (#8) in Novi Zagreb in the next round and are hoping to win another game. AJM Maribor will play at home against ZKK Medvescak in Zagreb and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Gospic: S.Mandir 17+4reb+2ast, J.Ivezic 14+10reb+2ast, M.Maslowski 13+4reb, A.Vrsaljko 10+6reb, I.Jurcevic 9+3reb, M.Reid 9+4reb+5ast
AJM Maribor: M.Dover 20+6reb+1ast, L.Kure 17+8reb, K.Ilijev 14+4reb+2ast, M.Furman 8+3reb+1ast, K.Baltic 0, S.Vehovar 0
gschID: 109308


Medvescak - Vojvodina 59-80

There was no surprise in Zagreb where 12th ranked Croatian ZKK Medvescak (1-13) was crushed by tenth ranked Serbian Vojvodina (4-9) 80-59. The game without a history. Vojvodina led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Vojvodina forced 22 ZKK Medvescak turnovers. Forward Sandra Boskovic (171-91) notched 19 points and 5 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and forward Aleksandra Cabarkapa (186-86) supported her with 11 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. Four Vojvodina players scored in double figures. Even 24 points and 9 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) by forward Gordana Bedalov (193-84, college: Florida Intern., agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) did not help to save the game for ZKK Medvescak. Guard Petra Peric (163-85) added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the hosts. Vojvodina moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Vozdovac. ZKK Medvescak lost eleventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 13 games lost. Vojvodina's next round opponent will be higher ranked Jolly (#4) in Sibenik and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. ZKK Medvescak will play on the road against AJM Maribor (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Vojvodina: S.Boskovic 19+5reb+2ast, N.Krnjetin 15+4reb+4ast, A.Cabarkapa 11+7reb+6ast, J.Bura 11+8reb+2ast, M.Zivadinovic 8+6reb+2ast, D.Lukac 8+1ast
Medvescak: G.Bedalov 24+9reb, P.Peric 16+5reb+5ast, I.Meznaric 8+6reb+2ast, A.Begic 4+2reb, I.Tikvic 3+3reb+2ast, A.Majstorovic 2+3reb+2ast
gschID: 109303


Radivoj Korac - Jolly 54-78

The game in Beograd supposed to be quite interesting. Fourth ranked Croatian Jolly (8-4) played at the court of 6th ranked Serbian Radivoj Korac (6-7). Jolly smashed Radivoj Korac 78-54. The game without a history. Jolly led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Jolly outrebounded Radivoj Korac 39-28 including 31 on the defensive glass. Center Luca Ivankovic (200-87) notched a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort and forward Neda Lokas (182-85) supported her with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four Jolly players scored in double figures. Even 12 points by guard Smiljana Ivanovic (176-88) did not help to save the game for Radivoj Korac. Center Biljana Stjepanovic (189-87) added 7 points and 7 rebounds for the hosts. Radivoj Korac's coach Dragan Vukovic gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Jolly maintains fourth position with 8-4 record. Radivoj Korac at the other side keeps the sixth place with seven games lost. Jolly's next round opponent will be Vojvodina (#9) in Novi Sad where they are favorite. Radivoj Korac's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Beograd to the arena Vozdovac.
Top scorers:
Jolly: A.Vasovic 16+2reb+2ast, L.Ivankovic 16+11reb+1ast, N.Lokas 13+6reb+2ast, A.Misura 11+8ast, M.Cakic 9+5reb+1ast, A.Semren 8+7reb+1ast
Radivoj Korac: S.Ivanovic 12+4reb, N.Jovanovic 10+4reb, B.Stjepanovic 7+7reb, T.Jovanovic 6+4reb+1ast, I.Musulin 6+1reb+2ast, S.Colic 5
gschID: 109304


Jedinstvo BP - Vozdovac 73-52

No shocking result in a game in Bijelo Polje where fifth ranked Montenegrin Jedinstvo BP (8-5) smashed 9th ranked Serbian Vozdovac (4-9) 73-52. The game without a history. Jedinstvo BP led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Jedinstvo BP forced 26 Vozdovac turnovers. Guard Jasmina Bigovic (174-79) notched 15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals to lead the effort and power forward Sanja Knezevic (190-84) supported her with 21 points. Even 17 points by guard Marija Prlja (162-87) did not help to save the game for Vozdovac. Center Ana Radovic (190-90) added 14 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Jedinstvo BP have an impressive six-game winning streak. Defending Montenegrin champion maintains fifth position with 8-5 record. Vozdovac lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with nine games lost. Jedinstvo BP's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Merkur Celje on the road and it may be quite challenging game. Vozdovac will play against Radivoj Korac (#6) in Beograd.
Top scorers:
Jedinstvo BP: S.Knezevic 21+1reb+1ast, J.Bigovic 15+8reb+4ast, N.Djordjevic 10+2reb, B.Hadzovic 9+1reb+4ast, N.Popovic 6+9reb, M.Garcevic 6+4reb
Vozdovac: M.Prlja 17+3reb+3ast, A.Radovic 14+5reb+1ast, M.Milutinovic 10+6reb+1ast, A.Krstovic 4+3reb+1ast, M.Papic 3+5reb, T.Zivanovic 2
gschID: 109305


Celik - Merkur Celje 77-66

The most important game in the last round took place in Zenica between second ranked Slovenian Merkur Celje (11-3) and eighth ranked Bosnian Celik (6-7) on Saturday night. Merkur Celje was defeated by Celik on the road 77-66. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Merkur Celje. The game was mostly controlled by Celik. Merkur Celje managed to win second period 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 27 personal fouls committed by Merkur Celje helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was guard Rada Vidovic (177-79) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Center Aida Pilav (187-87) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. Four Celik players scored in double figures. Croatian guard Monika Bosilj (178-85, college: Florida Intern.) produced 17 points and Montenegrin center Ana Turcinovic (190-93) added 13 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the guests. Celik has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Radivoj Korac. Merkur Celje at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Partizan. Celik is looking forward to face higher ranked Partizan (#3) in Beograd in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Merkur Celje will play at home against Jedinstvo BP in Bijelo Polje and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Celik: R.Vidovic 19+7reb+2ast, A.Pilav 18+6reb, A.Iriskic 14+2reb+3ast, M.Ristic 11+5reb+2ast, S.Graham 7+5reb, O.Stupar 4+1reb
Merkur Celje: N.Baric 18+3ast, M.Bosilj 17+4reb+3ast, A.Turcinovic 13+10reb, M.Klein 8+3reb+1ast, L.Jagodic 5+2reb+2ast, R.Abramovic 3+3reb
gschID: 109306




Luca Ivankovic claims Adriatic League weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Luca Ivankovic (200-C-87) had an amazing evening in the last round for ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
The 23-year old center had a double-double of 16 points and eleven rebounds, while her team crushed Radivoj Korac (#6, 6-7) with 24-point margin 78-54. Jolly maintains the 4th position in Adriatic League . They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Jolly will need more victories to improve their 8-4 record. Ivankovic has many years of experience at Jolly, through which he has constantly improved. Ivankovic has impressive league stats. She is in league's top in rebounds (5th best: 7.8rpg) and averages solid 2.1bpg and 61.2% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old forward Gordana Bedalov (193-F-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) of ZKK Medvescak. Bedalov impressed basketball fans with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Bad luck as Medvescak lost that game 59-80 to the higher-ranked Vojvodina (#9, 4-9). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Medvescak is still at the dead bottom 12th position. 13 lost games are too many comparing to just one victory Medvescak managed to get this year. Bedalov is a newcomer at Medvescak and it seems she did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.2ppg (#4). She also registered 7.2 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Natasa Krnjetin (180-G-88) of Vojvodina Nis Novi Sad (#9). Krnjetin scored 15 points and passed four assists. She was a key player of Vojvodina, leading her team to a 80-59 easy win against the lower-ranked Medvescak (#12, 1-13). The chances of Vojvodina not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 9 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Krnjetin could try to bring Vojvodina's a little bit higher in the standings. Krnjetin has a very solid season. In 13 games in Adriatic League she scored 9.1ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Britany Miller (193-C-87) of Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb - 14 points and 13 rebounds
5. Aleksandra Cabarkapa (186-F-86) of Vojvodina - 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Rada Vidovic (177-G-79) of Celik - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Jelena Ivezic (184-G-84) of Gospic - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Sandra Boskovic (171-F-91) of Vojvodina - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) of Gospic - 17 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Aida Pilav (187-C-87) of Celik - 18 points and 6 rebounds

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Vojvodina easily over Medvescak - by Zeljko Zule
In the last game of Week 14, Vojvodina gained an easy road win over Medvescak. 80-59. Sandra Boskovic (171-F-91) scored 19 points, Natasa Krnjetin 15 and Aleksandra Cabarkapa and Josipa Bura added 11apiece. Vojvodina won in all four quarters and commited just 11 turnovers to Medvescak's 11 lost balls. Gordana Bedalov had 24 points and 9 rebounds and Petra Peric posted 16 points for the home team.

Standings
Adriatic League Standings
 1. Gospic 12-1 
 2. Merkur Celje 11-3 
 3. Partizan 11-3 
 4. Sibenik 8-4 
 5. Jedinstvo BP 8-5 
 6. Radivoj Korac 6-7 
 7. Celik 6-7 
 8. Lupa Promot. 6-8 
 9. Vojvodina 4-9 
 10. Vozdovac 4-9 
 11. AJM Maribor 3-11 
 12. Medvescak 1-13 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ljubica KURE
  AJM Maribor
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Kure, AJM Maribor20.8 
 2. Baric, Merkur C.18.5 
 3. Miller, Lupa Promot.16.4 
 4. Bedalov, Medvescak16.2 
 5. Bigovic, Jedinstv.16.1 
 6. Butulija, Partizan16.0 
 7. Ivezic, Gospic15.8 
 8. Turcinovic, Merkur C.15.3 
 9. Pilav, Celik15.2 
 10. Dover, AJM Maribor14.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ana TURCINOVIC
  Merkur Celje
  (190-C-93)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Turcinovic, Merkur C.12.1 
 2. Popovic, Jedinstv.9.5 
 3. Miller, Lupa Promot.8.9 
 4. Stone, Partizan8.9 
 5. Ivankovic, Jolly7.8 
 6. Radovic, Vozdovac7.7 
 7. Vrsaljko, Gospic7.4 
 8. Matic, Lupa P.7.4 
 9. Bedalov, Medvescak7.2 
 10. Krstovic, Vozdovac7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Reid, Gospic5.1 
 2. Baric, Merkur C.4.4 
 3. Mehmedic, Celik3.9 
 4. Peric, Medvescak3.7 
 5. Mandir, Gospic3.2 
 6. Misura, Jolly3.2 
 7. Cuncic, Lupa P.3.0 
 8. Butulija, Partizan3.0 
 9. Cakic, Jolly3.0 
 10. Lokas, Jolly3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Reid, Gospic3.1 
 2. Bigovic, Jedinstv.3.1 
 3. Prlja, Vozdovac2.9 
 4. Butulija, Partizan2.7 
 5. Mehmedic, Celik2.4 
 6. Djuric, Vojvodina2.4 
 7. Klein, Merkur Celje2.4 
 8. Krstovic, Vozdovac2.2 
 9. Dover, AJM Maribor2.2 
 10. Matic, Lupa P.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Natasa POPOVIC
  Jedinstvo BP
  (190-C-82)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Popovic, Jedinstv.3.3 
 2. Ivankovic, Jolly2.1 
 3. Vrsaljko, Gospic1.8 
 4. Bedalov, Medvescak1.4 
 5. Tikvic, Medvescak1.2 
 6. Stone, Partizan0.9 
 7. Miller, Lupa Promot.0.8 
 8. Ajanovic, Radivoj .0.7 
 9. Mazic, Lupa P.0.6 
 10. Jovanovic, Radivo.0.5 


*****************************************************
  BELARUS - Women  


Tatyana Troina joined Gorizont - by Eurobasket News
Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) joined Gorizont and will stay with the team to prove their ambitions for this year. The season 2009-2010 Tatyana Troina started for Municipal MCM Targoviste (Romania-D1), and in EuroCup after 6 games averaged 8.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 28.6%; in Jan.'10 moved to Nadezhda Orenburg (Russia-A Superleague) and in Russian League after 9 games had 5.8ppg, 1.6rpg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 64.3%; EuroCup: 8 games: 2.1ppg, 1.4rpg.
In 2004-2005 Tatyana Troina joined Lotos Gdynia (Poland-PLKK) and in Euroleague after 16 games had 5.1ppg, 3.7rpg, 0.5apg, 0.6spg, 2FGP: 50.9%, 3FGP: 05.9%, 3FGP: 80.6, while in Polish League after 27 games had 8.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 63.6%. In 2005-2006 played for Raanana Herzeliya (Israel-D1, starting five) and after 19 games had 12.6ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 46.2%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 83.3%, played also shortly at Mersin BSH Bld (Turkey-D1): 5 games: 4pts. In Nov.'06 signed at Hapoel Haifa/Motzkin (Israel-D1) and in 6 games had massive 18.2ppg, 7.3rpg, 3.7apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 64.3%, 3PT: 53.6%, FT: 71.4%, in Dec.'06 moved to Lotos Gdynia (Poland-PLKK): Polish League: 22 games: 10.3ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 84.0%; Euroleague: 2 games: 4.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg
In 2007-2008 played for Maccabi Ramat Hen (Israel-D1, starting five), and in Israeli League after 10 games had 17.1ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.8apg, 1.9spg, 2FGP: 58.4%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 84.8%; then moved to Ramat Hasharon (Israel-D1, starting five): Israeli League: 13 games: 12.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.8apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 47.5%, FT: 97.1%; EuroCup: 6 games: 7.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.2apg, FGP: 29.2%, 3PT-2 (47.1%), FT-1 (70%)
In 2008-2009 moved to TTT Riga (Latvia-LSBL, starting five) and became the fifth top-scorer with (18.2ppg), 4.1rpg, Assists-2 (3.7apg), 2.6spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 44.0%, FT: 78.0%; Euroleague: 9 games: 18.0ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg, left in Dec.'08, in Jan.'09 moved to A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra (Israel-D1, starting five): 19 games: 13.3ppg, 4.4rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 54.3%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 94.4%

*****************************************************
  CYPRUS - Women  


Keravnos defeat AEL Limassol in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
Round 10 was played last week-end.

An interesting game for Keravnos (9-0) which hosted in Nicosia 3rd ranked AEL Limassol (6-3). Top-ranked Keravnos had an easy win 86-42. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of AEL Limassol. Undefeated Keravnos have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-0 record. AEL Limassol at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with Achilleas. Keravnos will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. AEL Limassol will play at home against InterCollege Etha in Nicosia and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
The game in Paphou supposed to be quite interesting. Fourth ranked Achilleas (6-3) played at the court of 6th ranked APOP Paphou (3-6). Achilleas smashed APOP Paphou 68-44 on Sunday. Achilleas moved-up to third place, which they share with AEL Limassol. Newly promoted APOP Paphou keeps the sixth position with six games lost. Achilleas will meet at home Anagennises (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. APOP Paphou will play against Akademia in Nicosia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between second ranked AEK Larnaca (8-1) and 7th ranked Akademia (2-7) in Larnaca ended with biggest points difference. AEK Larnaca outscored guests from Nicosia 81-28. AEK Larnaca has a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 8-1 record behind leader Keravnos. Akademia lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the seventh place with seven games lost. AEK Larnaca's next round opponent will be Olympos (#5) in Ayios. Akademia will play at home against APOP Paphou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.


AEK Larnaca - Akademia 81-28

The game between second ranked AEK Larnaca (8-1) and 7th ranked Akademia (2-7) in Larnaca ended with biggest points difference. AEK Larnaca outscored guests from Nicosia 81-28. AEK Larnaca has a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 8-1 record behind leader Keravnos. Akademia lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the seventh place with seven games lost. AEK Larnaca's next round opponent will be Olympos (#5) in Ayios. Akademia will play at home against APOP Paphou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 120
036
Keravnos - AEL Limassol 86-42

An interesting game for Keravnos (9-0) which hosted in Nicosia 3rd ranked AEL Limassol (6-3). Top-ranked Keravnos had an easy win 86-42. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of AEL Limassol. Keravnos have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-0 record. AEL Limassol at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with Achilleas. Keravnos will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. AEL Limassol will play at home against InterCollege Etha in Nicosia and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
gschID: 120361


APOP Paphou - Achilleas 44-68

The game in Paphou supposed to be quite interesting. Fourth ranked Achilleas (6-3) played at the court of 6th ranked APOP Paphou (3-6). Achilleas smashed APOP Paphou 68-44 on Sunday. Achilleas moved-up to third place, which they share with AEL Limassol. Newly promoted APOP Paphou keeps the sixth position with six games lost. Achilleas will meet at home Anagennises (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. APOP Paphou will play against Akademia in Nicosia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 120358

InterColl. Etha - Olympos 0-20



Standings - women
A1 Standings
 1. Keravnos 9-0 
 2. AEK Larnaca 8-1 
 3. AEL Limassol 6-3 
 4. Achilleas 6-3 
 5. Olympos 5-4 
 6. APOP Paphou 3-6 
 7. Akademia 2-7 
 8. Anagennises 1-7 
 9. InterColl. Etha 0-9 


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


Bourges edge Frisco Sika in France - by Eurobasket News
Bourges - Frisco Sika 77:60

Bourges earned Euroleague victory #6 this season. They rallied past visiting Frisco Sika to climb at 6-3 record in Group D.
The teams traded baskets in a close first quarter. Bourges were more accurate as they recorded an 18:17 lead after ten minutes. Miljkovic and Styliani Kaltsidou (188-C/F-83) gave the hosts a 6-point lead midway through the second term. Ndognue knocked down a pair of jumpers late in the half as Bourges recorded a 40:29 lead at the interval. The margin continued to grow in the third quarter. Styliani Kaltsidou and Ndongue gave the home side a 17-point buffer. Bourges enjoyed a comfortable 61:45 lead at the final break. They did not slow down in the fourth quarter. The French side stayed in charge and drove to a confident win at the end. Endene Miyem (188-F-88) knocked down 22 points for Bourges. Catherine Joens (180-G-82) added 17 points in the victory. Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, college: Louisiana Tech) answered with 19 points and 21 boards for Frisco Sika. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) had 14 points in the loss.

Bourges: Endene Miyem 22, Catherine Joens 17, Styliani Kaltsidou 15
Frisco Sika: Cheryl Ford 19+21 boards, Frida Eldebrink 14


One-way traffic as USK Praha rout VICI - by Eurobasket News
USK Praha - VICI Kaunas 87:60

USK Praha cruised past VICI Kaunas in Euroleague regular season Round 9. The Czech champions experienced little problems en route to the fifth win in Group C. They climbed onto the second place in the ladder. VICI Kaunas fell at 3-6 record after the loss. Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89), Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) and Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82, college: Minnesota) came up with 20 points each to lead impressive USK Praha offense.
Valentiene gave VICI Kaunas a 3:2 lead early in the encounter but the hosts quickly proved their strength. They fired 27 points in the starting period to take an 11-point lead. USK Praha opened the second quarter on a 13:2 run to boost the lead. They marched to a comfortable 52:29 lead at the interval. The things stayed almost the same in the second half. USK Praha eased to a 74:42 lead at three-quarter time and never looked back. Eva Viteckova (189-F-82) accounted for 17 points. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) answered with 20 points for VICI Kaunas. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) had 14 points in defeat.

USK Praha: Katerina Elhotova 20, Delisha Milton-Jones 20, Lindsay Whalen 20
VICI Kaunas: Marina Solopova 20, Giedre Paugaite 14


*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Diana TAURASI
  Fenerbahce
  (182-F/G-82)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Taurasi, Fenerbahce24.6 
 2. McCoughtry, MKB E.22.0 
 3. Taylor, Fenerbahce19.6 
 4. Bonner, Rivas E.19.3 
 5. Charles, Nadezhda.18.3 
 6. Reid, Gospic18.1 
 7. Brunson, Ros C.17.7 
 8. Dubljevic, Tarbes17.5 
 9. Prince, Spartak .17.5 
 10. Jackson, Spartak .17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cheryl FORD
  Frisco Sika
  (191-F/C-81)
  Avg: 14.8
 1. Ford, Frisco Sika14.8 
 2. Charles, Nadezhda.12.6 
 3. Lyttle, Perfumer.10.6 
 4. Hollingswort., TTT R.10.5 
 5. Fowles, Galatasa.9.9 
 6. Brunson, Ros C.9.9 
 7. Dupree, Dobri Anjeli9.5 
 8. Bonner, Rivas E.9.4 
 9. Leuchanka, Gorzow9.2 
 10. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Dalma IVANYI
  Pecs 2010
  (178-G-76)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Ivanyi, Pecs 20104.9 
 2. Skerovic, Frisco Sika4.9 
 3. Taurasi, Fenerbahce4.7 
 4. Whalen, USK Praha4.6 
 5. Hammon, Nadezhda.4.6 
 6. Zirkova, Dobri Anjeli4.4 
 7. Reid, Gospic4.4 
 8. Dominguez, Perfumer.4.3 
 9. Cohen, Familia Schio4.1 
 10. Prince, Spartak .4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 4
 1. Reid, Gospic4.0 
 2. Prince, Spartak .2.6 
 3. Phillips, Wisla C.2.5 
 4. Lyttle, Perfumer.2.4 
 5. McCoughtry, MKB E.2.3 
 6. Bimbaite, VICI K.2.3 
 7. Hammon, Nadezhda.2.2 
 8. Brunson, Ros C.2.2 
 9. Leedham, Gorzow2.1 
 10. Hodges, Galatasaray2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  Nadezhda O.
  (192-C-87)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.3.8 
 2. Stepanova, UMMC1.9 
 3. Jackson, Spartak .1.6 
 4. Ndongue, Bourges1.6 
 5. Fowles, Galatasa.1.3 
 6. Kulichova, USK P.1.2 
 7. Hollingswort., TTT R.1.1 
 8. Burse, Wisla C.1.1 
 9. Irvin, Lotos Gdynia1.0 
 10. Tamane, MKB Eurol.1.0 


Standings (Women)
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Taranto 7-1 
 2. Wisla Can-Pak 5-3 
 3. Dobri Anjeli 5-3 
 4. Mondeville 3-5 
 5. Pecs 2010 3-5 
 6. TTT Riga 1-7 
Group B
 1. Fenerbahce 8-0 
 2. UMMC 8-1 
 3. MKB Eurol. 4-5 
 4. Rivas Ecopolis 3-5 
 5. Gospic 1-7 
 6. Lotos Gdynia 1-7 
Group C
 1. Perfumerias 7-2 
 2. Spartak V MR 5-3 
 3. USK Praha 5-4 
 4. Tarbes 3-5 
 5. Galatasaray 3-6 
 6. VICI Kaunas 3-6 
Group D
 1. Ros Casares 7-2 
 2. Bourges 6-3 
 3. Familia Schio 5-3 
 4. Nadezhda O. 4-4 
 5. Frisco Sika 2-7 
 6. Gorzow 2-7 


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


Bourges edge Frisco Sika in France - by Eurobasket News
Bourges - Frisco Sika 77:60

Bourges earned Euroleague victory #6 this season. They rallied past visiting Frisco Sika to climb at 6-3 record in Group D.
The teams traded baskets in a close first quarter. Bourges were more accurate as they recorded an 18:17 lead after ten minutes. Miljkovic and Styliani Kaltsidou (188-C/F-83) gave the hosts a 6-point lead midway through the second term. Ndognue knocked down a pair of jumpers late in the half as Bourges recorded a 40:29 lead at the interval. The margin continued to grow in the third quarter. Styliani Kaltsidou and Ndongue gave the home side a 17-point buffer. Bourges enjoyed a comfortable 61:45 lead at the final break. They did not slow down in the fourth quarter. The French side stayed in charge and drove to a confident win at the end.