Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/26/2011

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Men News

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ABA

San Diego Surf defeat Los Angeles Slam - by Gianni Pascucci
After dropping last month's contest to the Los Angeles Slam, the The San Diego Surf returned the favor Saturday evening with a 111-108 victory over last year's SoCal Division Champions of the ABA. The Surf jumped out to a 12-point advantage in the first quarter and never looked back despite several efforts by the Slam to narrow the margin. 'I thought Aaron (Hands) got us started on the right foot,' said Surf head coach Terry Mason . 'He hit some shots early and the rest of the guys jumped on his back.' Hands finished with 12 points and 11 rebounds.
The Slam made a valiant effort in the 4th quarter to cut the deficit, but San Diego guards Tim Denson (6'1''-G-86, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) and Maurice Clady (5'8''-G, college: Long Beach St.) continued to push the ball and control the pace of the game. The Surf got a huge fourth quarter out of their newest edition, Gene Shipley (6'9''-C-79, agency: Elleby Sports, college: Brandon), who finished with 18 points and 16 rebounds and made several key free throws in the final minutes to secure the victory. Swingman Cornel Williams (6'4''-F-84, college: Long Beach St.) had arguably his best outing of the season, knocking down five three-pointers as part of his 23 points. Coach Mason was very pleased with the improved defensive effort and the contributions he got from the team as a whole, evidenced by the 45-point output from the bench. 'Everybody contributed and got a chance to be a part of the win,' said Mason. 'I'm very proud of the effort from our bench. The starters got a lot of support.' With the victory, the Surf moved to 20th in the ABA Power Rankings and the Slam dropped to 22nd.
The Surf (6-5) return to action this weekend with two home games at the HourGlass Arena at Miramar College. The Surf face off against the 24th ranked Modesto Hawks (7-6) this Saturday, January 29th at 7 p.m and follow-up with a contest with the California Swish from Hawthorne this Sunday, January 30th at 7 p.m.

Kings tame Gymrats, remain undefeated - by Gianni Pascucci
The Colorado Kings (10-0) remain undefeated after a 106-91 victory over the Shizuoka Gymrats, at Bear Creek High School Sunday night. The Gymrats, led by Jun Iwasa (6'2''-G-80) who scored 21 of his 35 points in third quarter, took a 77-76 lead going into the fourth. The Kings proved to be too much and outscored the Gymrats 30-14 in the fourth quarter to close out the game. The Colorado Kings were led by Robert Frazier (6'7''-F, college: Tuskegee) who scored 23 points followed by Donald Whitfield (6'4''-G-82)'s 21 points and Jermaine Mason (6'0''-G-79, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) who contributed 16 points 8 rebounds and 7 assists. The Kings shot a remarkable 54% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc.
The Colorado Kings, ranked fifth in the American Basketball Association, attempt to sweep the three game series against the Shizuoka Gymrats Tuesday night at Bear Creek High School. Tip-off is set at 7:15 PM.

Standings

ABA Standings

1. Colorado Kings		9-0
2. Arlington B.		2-3
3. NY Prime Time		1-4
4. Santa Barbara		0-0
5. Shizuoka Gym.		0-0
6. Texas RR		0-1
Gulf Coast
1. SE Texas M.		16-1
2. Gulf Coast F.		5-3
3. Mobile Bay H.		4-2
4. Louisiana U.		1-4
5. Cypress		0-0
6. Houston R.S.		0-5
Mid-Atlantic
1. Seven Cities		11-0
2. Atlanta V.		0-0
3. Charlotte		0-0
4. College Park		0-0
5. Fayetteville F.		0-0
6. Georgia G.		0-0
7. Georgia K.		0-0
NoCal
1. E.Bay Pitbulls		9-3
2. Bay Area M.		9-4
3. Sacramento H.		7-4
4. Modesto H.		7-6
5. S.Francisco R.		5-3
6. California SK		0-0
7. Clayton		0-0
North Central
1. Chicago Steam		9-3
2. Lake Michigan		6-3
3. Detroit Hoops		0-0
4. Elkhart E.		0-0
5. Indianapolis		0-0
6. Kansas City S.		0-0
7. Pittsburgh P.		0-0
8. NWI M.Stars		0-3
Northeast
1. Jersey Expr.		3-1
2. NY Red Riders		0-0
3. NY Thunder		0-0
4. S.Jersey		0-0
5. Tri-City Suns		0-0
Northwest
1. Seattle M.		9-1
SoCal
1. Las Vegas A.		9-0
2. San Diego Sol		8-3
3. San Diego S.		6-5
4. LA Slam		5-3
5. Compton C.		0-0
6. Mid-Valley		0-0
7. S.Valley Fever		0-0
8. Riverside R.		0-1
9. SoCal Swish		0-3
South Central
1. E.Kentucky En.		11-0
2. St. Louis		2-1
3. Kentucky B.		0-0
4. Kentucky C.		0-0
5. W.Virginia B.		0-0
6. Indiana Diesel		0-1
Southeast
1. Jacksonville		13-0
2. Savannah Storm		9-3
3. Columbus Life		4-0
4. Bahama PS		0-0
5. Florida M.		0-0
6. Florida Th.		0-0
7. Heartland P.		0-0
8. Orlando Kings		0-0
9. Team Haiti		0-0
Southwest
1. Texas Fuel		12-4
2. North Dallas		9-5
3. Oklahoma		8-2
4. West Texas W.		8-5
5. N.Texas F.		1-4
6. Dallas Impact		0-0
7. Piedmont		0-0

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ACPBL

Bombers Add Fab-Five! - by Justin Moore
The Bombers Have added a new Fab-Five full of Pro experience in similar fashion of the NBA's Miami heat the bombers are now a legit contender for the ACPBL Title!

Fab Five
G/F Hugh Jones (6'3''-F-80)
F Derick Payne (6'6''-F-83, college: Bowie St.)
G/F Marcus Fisher (6'4''-G/F-83)
PG Camontae Griffin (5'9''-G-86, college: St.Mary's (MD))
PG Joseph Flegler (6'0''-G-85, college: Savannah St.)

The Beltway Bombers have adjusted their roster and are in the midst of a 3 game winning streak in the ACPBL. They have added 5-10 PG Joseph Flegler, 5-10 PG Camontae Griffin, 6-5 Swing Hugh Jones, 6-7 F Derick Payne, and 6-5 Swing Marcus Fisher. They now join an existing talented roster of 6-3 G Steven Miles (6'2''-G-81, college: American), 6-3 G Angelo Hernandez (6'3''-G, college: N.Carolina A&T), 6-4 G Rogers Barnes (6'2''-G-86, college: Morgan St.), 6-4 G Darrian Lee (6'5''-G-78, college: Goucher), 6-7 F Ed Jones (6'7''-F, college: N.Carolina A&T), 6-6 F Jamaal Wise (6'5''-F-83, college: Rhode Island), 6-8 PF Keith Gray (6'8''-C-80, college: American), 6-8 F Dallas Crawley (6'6''-F/C-80, college: Marymount) and 6-9 F Chris Darnell (6'9''-F/C-86, college: William & Mary).

With six {6} games remaining, four {4} at home, Coach Chaz's focus is on winning that next game on the schedule, along with getting the new players familiar to the offensive and defensive sets. When asked how will he mesh all of this top flight talent, Coach Chaz says 'I'm confident that there will be a very small adjustment period. These are five pros joining existing pros. My agenda, is now their agenda; which is aggressive defense, speed, attacking and unselfishness. We play with swagger, and with the sole mindset of winning the game. They understand clearly that more can be accomplished by utilizing each others talents'.

The five new players shared their thoughts on playing for the Bombers...

Hugh 'Baby Shaq' Jones: 'I chose the Bombers because of the coaching. People said I can't be coached, but it's showing in the stats and in our record winning streak, that it was a false statement. I have a great coach in Coach Chaz, and a great team. The expectations are high for me and the team'.

Derick Payne: 'I decided to play for the Bombers because they play a team oriented, unselfish style that exploits matchups. Coach Chaz is a very insightful man, and I think playing with them will help my game tremendously and further my career'.

Marcus Fisher: 'after parting ways with Tru Hope, playing for the Bombers was by far the best fit for me. Running the up-tempo style of game was perfect. Getting in the open court and making plays is the type of style the Bombers play. With all the talent we have, anything less than the chip will be a huge letdown. Coach Chaz allows all his players to play their game. Miss shot or turnover, he encourages you to just keep on playing. When your coach does that, it makes it easier and less stressful, and it allows you to just go out and execute. With a few more games of all of us playing together, I think it's safe to say that the Bombers will be a powerhouse in the ACPBL'.

Jo Jo Flegler:'when the opportunity presented itself to play with an elite group of players and for an outstanding coach, I couldn't pass it up'.

Camontae Griffin: 'I love to be challenged, and Coach Chaz, along with this loaded roster of talent, definitely challenges me. The aggressive, attacking style on offense and defense is tailored to my game. Winning is expected on the Bombers'.

The Beltway Bombers next game is on the road Saturday night, February 5th against the Tri City Suns in Upper Marlboro MD.

ACPBL Week #7 Recap: Doug Herring named Player of the Week - by Gianni Pascucci
The Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League completed its seventh week, and the ACPBL front office announced that Hudson Valley Kingz shooting guard Doug Herring (6'1''-G, college: Utica) has been named Player of the Week. Doug scored a Hudson Valley Kingz franchise record 49 points (2nd highest in ACPBL history) in a four point road loss against the Westchester Wildkatz on Friday January 21, 2011. He followed that effort up with following night with 24 points scored in a thirteen-point road loss against the Garden State Rebels. For the weekend Herring averaged 36.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.5 steals.
Below is the full recap of week #7 complete with scores and top performers, fans may visit www.acpbl.com and click on stats to view the box scores for each game.

HUDSON VALLEY KINGZ (2-4) 116 - WESTCHESTER WILDKATZ (1-6) 120
Top performers: Westchester Wildkatz: Telron Spell (6'4''-G/F-82, college: Bridgeport) 27 points, 17 rebounds, 4 assists, 8 steals, 1 block. Hudson Valley Kingz: Doug Herring 49 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal.

HUDSON VALLEY KINGZ (2-4) 80 - GARDEN STATE REBELS (4-2) 93
Top performers: Garden State Rebels: Derryck Alexander (6'5''-F-85, college: Rutgers-Newark) 18 points, 16 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal. Hudson Valley Kingz: Doug Herring 24 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals.

BUFFALO STAMPEDE (4-2) 114 - WESTCHESTER WILDKATZ (1-6) 104
Top performers: Buffalo Stampede: Ajay Rutledge (6'2''-G-87, college: Daemen) 25 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block. Westchester Wildkatz: John Jacob 27 points, 3 rebounds, 6 steals.

BELTWAY BOMBERS (4-4) 139 - TRI-CITY SUNS (2-3) 99
Top performers: Tri-City Suns: Derick Payne (6'6''-F-83, college: Bowie St.) 28 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 1 block. Beltway Bombers: Hugh Jones (6'3''-F-80) 33 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals.

BELTWAY BOMBERS (4-4) 117 - TRU HOPE TRAILBLAZERS (4-2) 110
Top performers: Tru Hope Trailblazers: Brian Graves (6'2''-G-85, college: Catawba) 31 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals, Beltway Bombers: Marcus Fisher (6'4''-G/F-83) 28 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals

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AUSTRALIA

Clark's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
35-year old Ira Clark (203-C/F-75) put on an amazing game in the last round for Gold Coast Blaze and receives a Australiabasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15.
He had a double-double of 29 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Taipans (#3, 10-6) 90-85. Blaze maintains the 7th position in Australian league. Blaze 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 7-10 record. In the team's last game Clark had a remarkable 69.2% from 2-point range. He turned to be Blaze's top player in his first season with the team. The University of Texas graduate has very impressive stats this year. Clark is in league's top in points (7th best: 16.1ppg) and averages solid 1.4bpg and 57.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports) of Townsville Crocodiles. He is former international center in his first season at Crocodiles. In the last game Schenscher recorded impressive double-double of 25 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Crocodiles lost that game 68-88 to slightly higher-ranked Wildcats (#2, 12-6). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Crocodiles still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 10-8 record is not bad at all. Schenscher is a newcomer at Crocodiles and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Ayinde Ubaka (193-G-85) of Taipans (#3). Ubaka got into 30-points club by scoring 32 points in the last round. He went also for four assists. Despite Ubaka's great performance Taipans lost 76-83 to the lower-ranked Tigers (#8, 6-11). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Taipans needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 10 victories and 6 lost games. Ubaka has a great season in Australia. After 16 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.4ppg (6th best) and assists with 4.1apg (8th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ben Madgen (193-G-85) of Sydney Kings - 19 points and 12 rebounds
5. Adam Ballinger (205-F-79) of 36ers - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Luke Nevill (218-C-86) of Tigers - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Adam Gibson (188-G-86) of Blaze - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists
8. Mark Worthington (202-F-83) of Blaze - 10 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Adam Ballinger (205-F-79) of 36ers - 26 points and 7 rebounds
10. Corey Williams (191-G-77) of Tigers - 14 points, 7 rebounds and 9 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)

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Standings - Men

Baltic League Stage Two Standings

Elite Division
1. VEF Riga			12-2
2. TU/Rock			11-5
3. Ventspils			10-4
4. Rudupis			10-6
5. Kalev/Cramo			9-5
6. Nevezis			9-5
7. Siauliai			9-7
8. Norrkoping			6-8
9. Perlas			6-10
10. Liepaja			5-10
11. TTU/Kalev			3-13
12. Valmiera			1-16
Challenge Cup
13. Aiscai Kaunas			0-0
14. Alytus Alita			0-0
15. Juventus			0-0
16. Neptunas			0-0
17. Techasas			0-0
18. Zemgale			0-0

Stage One Standings

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BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

1. Charleroi		10-1
2. Aalstar		12-2
3. M.Hainaut		10-4
4. Antwerp		7-6
5. Oostende		7-8
6. Liege		5-8
7. Leuven		4-9
8. Verviers-Pep.		3-10
9. Gent		2-11

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BOSNIA

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Boris LALOVIC
  Hercegovac
  (206-C-81)
  Avg: 19.1

1. Lalovic, Hercegovac	19.1
2. Kahrimanovic, Kak.	18.9
3. Albijanic, Sloboda .	17.1
4. Kahrimanovic, Zrinjs.	16.6
5. Opacak, Celik	16.5
6. Stanic, Slavija	16.2
7. Zdravkovic, Capljina	15.9
8. Rahimic, Bosna	15.6
9. Gajovic, Hercegovac	15.5
10. Lesko, Brotnjo	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Andrija PEJOVIC
  Hercegovac
  (205-C-83)
  Avg: 8.2

1. Pejovic, Hercegovac	8.2
2. Sakic, Zrinjski HT	7.2
3. Hajric, Zrinjski HT	7.2
4. Ljuca, Kakanj	6.8
5. Kuzmic, Celik	6.3
6. Lalovic, Hercegovac	6.3
7. Jagodic Kuri., Borac N.	6.3
8. Vukovic, Slavija	6.2
9. Albijanic, Sloboda .	5.9
10. Jocovic, Borac N.	5.6

Assists Per Game

Vladimir RADOVANOVIC
  Radnik B.
  (194-G-81)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Radovanovic, Herce.	6.1
2. Pasalic, Bosna	4.8
3. Jovanovic, Borac N.	4.4
4. Boljkovac, Slavija	3.6
5. Zdravkovic, Capljina	3.5
6. Stanic, Slavija	3.4
7. Ahmetbasic, Kakanj	3.3
8. Mulic, Kakanj	3.3
9. Bijelica, Capljina	3.2
10. Jovanovic, SL IAT L.	3.1

Steals Per Game

Srdjan STANIC
  Slavija
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Stanic, Slavija	3.5
2. Radovanovic, Herce.	2.4
3. Savovic, Slavija	2.1
4. Komatina, Mladost	1.9
5. Gajovic, Hercegovac	1.9
6. Vranjes, Borac N.	1.9
7. Lalovic, Hercegovac	1.7
8. Bijelica, Capljina	1.7
9. Pasalic, Bosna	1.5
10. Crnobrnja, Varda HE	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Ognjen KUZMIC
  Celik
  (215-C-90)
  Avg: 2

1. Kuzmic, Celik	2.0
2. Zimic, Bosna	1.9
3. Ljuca, Kakanj	1.6
4. Durasovic, SL IAT L.	0.8
5. Jocovic, Borac N.	0.8
6. Brkic, Capljina	0.8
7. Duranovic, Mladost	0.8
8. Pejovic, Hercegovac	0.8
9. Albijanic, Sloboda .	0.8
10. Suljagic, Kakanj	0.7

Bosnia and Herzegovina D1 round 17 best performance: Dzenan Rahimic - by Eurobasket News
Naturalized Croatian Dzenan Rahimic (204-C/F-74) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Bosna, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 36-year old player was the main contributor (32 points, nine rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Kakanj (#9, 6-9) 90-85. It allowed Bosna to consolidate first place in the Croatian D1. Bosna have a solid 14-2 record. Rahimic turned to be Bosna's top player in his first season with the team. Dzenan Rahimic has solid league stats. He is in league's top in points (8th best: 15.6ppg) and averages impressive 60.4% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old Montenegrin Milos Komatina (204-C-84) of Mladost. Komatina had a very good evening with 28 points and 7 rebounds. Bad luck as Mladost was edged by slightly higher-ranked Capljina (#3, 11-5) 85-83. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Mladost still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 10-5 record is not bad at all. Komatina is a newcomer at Mladost, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Mirza Hrncic (203-F/C-86) of Sloboda Dita (#7). Hrncic scored 24 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite Hrncic's great performance Sloboda Dita lost 75-81 to the lower-ranked Brotnjo (#12, 4-12). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Sloboda Dita needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 8 victories and 8 lost games. Hrncic has a very solid season. In 16 games in Bosnia he scored 9.3ppg. He also has 4.8rpg and FGP: 54.5%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Sasa Stefanovic (188-G-75) of Brotnjo - 28 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Mato Peraica (203-C-81) of Zrinjski HT - 21 points and 12 rebounds
6. Darko Damjanovic (203-F/C-91) of Slavija - 17 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Sinisa Kovacevic (200-F-78) of Borac Nektar - 21 points and 8 rebounds
8. Goran Gajovic (199-G/F-88) of Hercegovac - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Krsto Bijelica (192-G-88) of Capljina - 24 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Krunoslav Rimac (195-G-84) of Capljina - 21 points, 4 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)

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BRAZIL

Sao Jose dos Campos acquires Fischer - by Paulo Freire
The basketball team of Sao Jose dos Campos wants to ratchet up the 2010-2011 season of the NBB (New Basketball Brazil). After a troubled Paulista State Championship where the results did not come, the directors of the team have moved in search of reinforcements.

The first move was bringing in the swingman Joseph Delano Shipp wich gives the team some American offensive power. The team's new acquisition is the young point guard Ricardo Fischer (185-G-91), one of the top prospects who was playing for Barueri in the last Paulista State Championship and average 13.5 ppg, 2.3apg and 2.8rpg.

Although he still very young, Ricardo who was born on May 6, 1991 has a role international experience, he had played in Italy (Fortitudo Bologna) and Switzerland (Sion Herens Basket and Martigny Herens Basket), also work-out in Turkey (Besiktas) and USA. In Brazil, the athlete was formed in Hebraica Club and Circulo Militar, both clubs from Sao Paulo.

Basketball is in his blood, Ricardo whos nick name is 'The Killer' is the younger brother of the shootinguard of Bauru, Fernando Fischer. In San Jose dos Campos he will have a hard competition on the PG spot, since head coach Regis Marreli already have in the roster Fulvio and Alexandre Pinheiro, Matheus (injured), besides Jimmy and Paulo Nery, who also can get some minutes at the PG position.

For the NBB it is a great acquisition, is one more young talent playing his first NBB season.

Piracicaba Team has new manager and players - by Paulo Freire
The basketball team XV de Piracicaba / Cosan / Good Fish / Unimed / Selam basketball team announced the hiring of smallforward Feliz Baeta (195-G/F-84), 26 years old, former Olympico (MG), and the point guard Mauro Savani (190-G-85), 25 years old, who was playing for METODISTA/SAO BERNARDO DO CAMPO and average 7.0 ppg, 2.1apg and 2.0 rpg in the Paulista State Championship.

Apart from the two acquisitions, the board directors hit the permanence of 7 players from the last season roster:

Caio Ranches (192-F-87)

Fransergio Marques (190-F-81)

Marcao Vinicius (205-C-84)

Luciano Machado (198-F-85)

Telmo Oliveira (200-C-71)

Leo Messias (90)

Diego Mina (89)

The team also has his first reinforcements out of court.

The president of the Piracicaba team, Andre Gustavo Bandeira, officially announce this week, the integration of a former national player Marco Aurelio dos Santos Pegolo, more knowing as Chui as a manager of the team.

Chui as a player had four Brazilian titles playing for Franca (1993, 1997, 1998 and 1999) and was champion of Brazil Cup defending the Sirio Club (1989). Defending the Brazilian National team, Chui was twice champion of South America (1989 and 1993), bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Mar del Plata, Argentina (1995) and participated in the World Championships in Greece (1998). After his retirement he had work as Head Coach at Franca and Araraquara, he also was the coach of the Brazilian National University Team in 2010.

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BULGARIA

Spartak Saint-Petersburg needed 7-0 run at the end to silence Lukoil - by Eurobasket News
Lukoil Academic-Spartak Saint-Petersburg 63:71

Spartak Saint-Petersburg became the only leader in Group I and the only undefeated team. The team from Russian Federation grabbed 71:63 win over Lukoil Academic in EuroChallenge.
The opening quarter saw both teams trading baskets and leads throughout the period. Popovic and Patrick Beverley (185-G-88, college: Arkansas) gave the guests a slender four-point advantage at the end of the first. The second quarter however completely belonged to the Bulgarian team that had 19-7 in it. Damjan Stojanovski (197-F-87) made a free throw for 35:25 and Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) closed the half at 35:27. Although Spartak won the third period 21-14, Damjan Stojanovski's last shot allowed the hosts to take 49:48 lead after three periods. He also nailed three to open the last frame but Henry Domercant tied the game at 55:55. Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) scored for 63:64 and as it became known later those points were the last for Lukoil. Spartak finished the game with 7-0 run for the second win in the group.
Henry Domercant stepped up with 23 points for the winners and Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86) added 21. Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) collected 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Patrick Beverley posted 9. Damjan Stojanovski replied with 16 points in the losing effort as Lukoil is 1-1 in the group. Brandon Heath netted 15, whilst Green scored 10.

Lukoil Academic: Damjan Stojanovski 16, Brandon Heath 15, Green 10

Spartak Saint-Petersburg: Henry Domercant 23, Anton Ponkrashov 21, Miha Zupan 11+10 rebs, Patrick Beverley 9

Nikolay Varbanov claims Bulgarian NBL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Former international center Nikolay Varbanov (209-C-85, agency: Interperformances) had an amazing evening in the last round for Tundja Yambol and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15.
The 25-year old center had a double-double of 27 points and sixteen rebounds, while his team was edged out by Balkan (#3, 9-7) 70-66. Tundja maintains the 6th position in Bulgarian NBL. Tundja is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. But it was their 11th lost game this season out of 16 games. Varbanov turned to be Tundja's top player in his first season with the team. Varbanov has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 11.1rpg) and averages solid 54.7% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 36-year old former international swingman Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74) of Spartak. Dimitrov impressed basketball fans with 29 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Bad luck as Spartak lost that game 84-101 to league's leader Lukoil Academik (#1, 16-0). Spartak are still at the very bottom. 13 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Spartak managed to get this year. Dimitrov is a newcomer at Spartak and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.3ppg (#4). His other stats are also decent: 7.5rpg and 3.4apg.

The third best performed player last round was Bosnia and Herzegovina Aleksandar Radojevic (220-C-76) of Rilski Sportist (#4). Radojevic scored 16 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of Rilski Sportist, leading his team to a 102-94 win against slightly lower-ranked Cherno More (#5, 6-10). Rilski Sportist needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 8 victories and 8 lost games. Radojevic has a very solid season. In 3 games in Bulgaria he scored 7.7ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Simeon Iliev (202-F-89) of Cherno More - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Donald Cole (204-C-81) of Levski - 15 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Brandon Heath (193-G-84) of Lukoil Academik - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Stefan Georgiev (206-C/F-78) of Levski - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Aleksandar Yanev (203-F-90) of Cherno More - 22 points and 9 rebounds
9. Nikola Traykov (197-G/F-85) of Spartak - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Gjorgi Cekovski (202-F/C-79) of Levski - 6 points, 11 rebounds and 4 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)

Brandon Bowman moves to France - by Eurobasket News
Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown) is a new player of Le Mans. He signed a six-month deal to replace injured Alain Koffi (207-C-83, agency: Beo Basket).
Brandon Bowman started this season with Bulgarian Lukoil Akademik. He played 15 games in the league averaging 10.1 points and 6.1 rebounds. In EuroChallenge, he added 8.9 ppg and 4.1 rpg for 7 games, while in EuroCup Bowman had 16 ppg and 8 rpg for two games. Last season he spent in Turkey as a member of Tofas. For 25 games in TBL he registered 14.9 ppg, 7.3 rpg and 2.2 apg. He participated at the Turkish League All-Star Game. Bowman also has experience from Telekom Baskets Bonn and Italian Novara. He played for NBA D-League team Bakersfield Jam from 2006 to 2008.

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CANADA

Berry resigns as Rainmen head coach - by Eurobasket News
Three jobs was one too many for Les Berry .

The Halifax native resigned on Monday as head coach of the Halifax Rainmen, almost two years after taking the job, to focus on his off-court employment and a new career opportunity.

Berry has worked in sales with GBS Communications for the past three years while coaching the Rainmen, but recently added to that by starting the training process to become a station attendant with Air Canada.

If I could work it out where I could keep coaching the Rainmen, I would, but doing what Im doing outside of basketball, its really taken precedent for my (job) security, to make sure Im doing the right thing for my family, Berry said. I like the Rainmen, I would keep doing it, but I just cant continue to do them all.

Berry, a long-time university coach who resigned at Acadia after taking the Axemen to a national final in 2008, replaced the Rainmens first head coach, Rick Lewis, in February 2009.

He went 22-11 over parts of three seasons and guided the team to its first ever playoff appearance in 2010. He had a 3-1 record this season before staying home from the clubs most recent road trip.

Berry said it came to the point where continuing to coach the Rainmen would mean giving up one of his off-court opportunities, and he wasnt willing to do that. The insecurity of minor-league basketball was part of it.

As much as Id like to coach basketball, I just cant risk it, Berry said. Because you know, at any point, you could lose three games and be out, or two teams could fold, and you just never know.

Even owner Andre Levingston recognized there are no guarantees at this level.

We discussed it and we thought it would be best for everybody, Levingston said. I told him, I totally respect you have to do whats best for your family and I have to make sure that our organization is your No. 1 focus. So we just kind of came to a mutual agreement.

Levingston said Berry actually made the decision before the teams recent two-game road trip, but a decision was made not to tell the players or announce it until Monday.

We were going on an important road trip and didnt want things to be in disarray, Levingston said. We thought it would be the best way to handle it.

A new head coach will be named on Wednesday morning, and Levingston said he is finalizing things with someone he has his eyes on.

We always want to raise the bar and get better as an organization and were looking for someone who can come in and provide that, Levingston said.

Berry said the Rainmen have the player personnel to make a really good run at a championship this year, saying they can compete with the defending champion Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry.

If I could physically and mentally find a way to keep doing it, I would have tried, Berry said. But I always have to do whats best for my family, and at this stage, continuing to coach the Rainmen and passing up these other opportunities, is not what would be best for my family.

Courtesy of www.metronews.ca

Raptors sign Gaines to second 10-day deal - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors have signed guard Sundiata Gaines (6'1''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia) to a second 10-day contract.

He inked his original 10-day deal on January 13 and has since appeared in five games, averaging 5.8 points and 2.0 assists in 14 1/2 minutes per contest.

The 24-year-old appeared in eight games for Minnesota this season before being released on January 4. In his time with the Timberwolves, Gaines registered 21 points and six assists in 65 minutes of action.

In 45 career NBA contests, the University of Georgia product has posted per- game averages of 3.5 points and 1.2 assists in 7.9 minutes with the Raptors, Utah Jazz and Timberwolves.

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

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CROATIA

BC Zadar celebrated the initial victory in Group L of EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
BC Zadar-BK Prostejov 96:90

BC Zadar celebrated the initial victory in Group L of EuroChallenge as they beat BK Prostejov at home. The Croatian team needed 96:90 for 1-1 record, while BK Prostejov fell at 0-2.
Four times the teams were tied in the first period, while BC Zadar took 27:20 after the first 10 minutes. Chester Mason (192-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: Miami (OH)) increased to 29:21 and Brown made it 33:24. Later Kyle Landry (206-F-86, college: N.Arizona) sent the teams to the lockers for 55:42 as the hosts won the frame 28:22. The second half however belonged to the guests that started to catch up with the opponents. At first they reduced to 10 points midway through the third period and Kyle Landry scored for 85:78 with 3 minutes remaining. Jurica Zuza (207-C-78) and Marko Car (188-G/F-85) increased to 92:78 and it seemed the easy win was in the hosts' hands. BK Prostejov meanwhile produced a 9-0 run for 92:87 with 1 minute to go. Only due to the free throws of Marko Car and Olivari Zadar won the game.
Marko Car erupted with 25 points for the winners for the home win over the opponent. Brown and Jurica Zuza netted 14 each, whilst Chester Mason scored 10. Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, college: St.John's) delivered massive 37 points for the guests and Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) added 17. Kyle Landry chipped in 16 and Andrius Slezas (200-F-75) poured in 11.

BC Zadar: Marko Car 25, Brown 14, Jurica Zuza 14, Chester Mason 10
BK Prostejov: Eugene Lawrence 37, Benas Veikalas 17, Kyle Landry 16, Andrius Slezas 11

Hapless Cedevita yield to Unics - by Eurobasket News
Cedevita - Unics 76:94

Unics taught a good basketball lesson to Cedevita in Croatia tonight. The Russian powerhouse led from start to finish to post the second straight win in EuroCup Last 16 round. They topped Group I, while Cedevita slipped at 0-2 record. Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) scored 22 points to lead the winners.
The game had little story in it. Unics grabbed the lead from the start and never surrendered it. The visitors led by three points after a high-flying first quarter 26:23. The teams traded baskets in the second term as Unics were able to post a 41:38 lead at halftime. Unics used a massive rally in the third term to clear off. The visitors arrived at the final intermission up by 19 points. Cedevita had little to answer with in the fourth period and suffered a heavy loss at the end.
Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) had 20 points, 6 assists and 5 boards for Unics. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) tallied 17 points and 8 rebounds in the victory. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) responded with 16 points and 6 assists for Cedevita. Vedran Vukusic (206-F-82, college: Northwestern) netted 13 points in the defeat.

Cedevita: Dontaye Draper 16, Vedran Vukusic 13
Unics: Kelly McCarty 22, Terrell Lyday 20, Maciej Lampe 17

Alen Trepalovac moves to Austria - by Eurobasket News
Alen Trepalovac (214-C-85, agency: KMG Sports Management) has continued his career in Austria. After finishing last season in France, young Croatian center has been without the club. Austrian outfit Vienna, which is currently in 9th place in Austrian league offered a deal to Trepalovac. So far, he has played 2 matches for Vienna and the team has won both games. On his debut he played 29 minutes and has scored 11 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. He is expected to be great reinforcement for Austrian outfit.
Alen Trepalovac is a product of Bosna youth system but in 2000 he moved to Cibona Zagreb where he also played for junior team. After loan stints with Zabok and Sanac Karlovac, Trepalovac made his debut for Cibona during 2003-2004 season. Following year he played for Dubrava where he averaged 14.9 points and 8.0 rebounds in 17 league games. He then returned to Cibona next season and has won the National title in 2006. In October of 2006, Trepalovac moved to Gravelines in France where he averaged 3.3 points and 2.4 rebounds in 14 games. He also had stints with Proteras AEK Limasol, AEK Larnacas and InterCollege Etha Engomis in Cyprus. Last season he started the year at AEK Larnacas but in March of 2010 he moved to Stade Clermontois Basket Auvergne where in 7 games he averaged 6.7 points and 2.4 rebounds per game. Trepalovac has so far represented Croatia at youth levels.

Branimir Longin close to signing with Zadar - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Croatian media, Zadar is set to bring in an experienced reinforcement in attempt to reshape their roster. Croatian outfit is struggling in Adriatic league where they are currently in last place. So reportedly, they are looking to bring in Branimir Longin (196-G-78) in hopes of trying to move from the bottom and secure Adriatic league participation next season. Longing is seen as replacement for Jakov Vladovic who is out with injury. It remains to be seen in the next couple of day whether the deal will materialize.
Branimir Longin started his career with BC Zadar in 1996. Since then he has went on to play mainly for Zadar and BC Cibona in Croatia with whom he has won a host of trophies. He has lifted national Title on two occasions in 2001 and 2002 as member of Cibona. Also with Cibona, he has won three consecutive National Cups in 2001, 2002 and 2003. Longin also possesses great international experience having played for the likes of Caja San Fernando Sevilla and EWE Baskets Oldenburg. During 2008-2009, Longin returned to BC Cibona with whom he has won another National Cup. At the start of last season he has moved to Jadran who is playing in Croatian A2 League. Then in March of 2010, Longin signed a deal with BC Siroki. He helped the team win the National Title as important part of the rotation.

Nikola Prkacin returns to Cibona as Director of youth development - by Eurobasket News
Nikola Prkacin (208-C-75) returned to BC Cibona, but this time not as a player. According to the reports from Croatian media, Prkacin has been offered position of Director of youth development with one of Croatias most successful teams. Reportedly, Prkacin will also be involved in making decisions regarding the reinforcements of the senior roster. Former Croatian International is expected to assume his new position in the upcoming days.
Nikola Prkacin has started his career with Split in 1995. He has played for host of clubs across Europe and won host of trophies. After Split, Prkacin signed with Cibona in 1998 and has also played for the likes of Efes Pilsen Istanbul, Dynamo Moscow and Panathanaikos. In 2008 he returned to Cibona where he signed 2-year contract. That season, 35 year old forward was one of the teams best players averaging 10.8 points and 3.9 rebounds per game in 16 games in Croatian League helping the team win the title. Prkacin is also a regular member of Croatia National team since 1997. He then played for Croatia at the EuroBasket in Poland and has helped them qualify for 2010 World Championships in Turkey. Last season, Prkacin made a shock move to Zagreb. He averaged 6.8 points and 3.2 rebounds per game in 13 EuroChallenge games. In Croatian League, Prkacin played in 12 games and has averaged 5.1 points and 1.6 rebounds per contest.

A1 Standings

A1 Standings

1. KK Split		8-3
2. Alkar Sinj		8-4
3. Borik		7-5
4. Svjetlost		6-6
5. Dubrovnik		6-6
6. Kvarner 2010		6-6
7. Zabok		5-6
8. Darda		5-7
9. Dubrava		4-8
10. Trogir		4-8
Play in international cups:
1. Cedevita		-
2. Cibona		-
3. KK Zagreb CO		-
4. Zadar		-

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Ivan BAKOVIC
  Darda
  (197-G-81)
  Avg: 19.5

1. Bakovic, Darda	19.5
2. Zitko, Trogir	18.3
3. Krapic, Zabok	17.6
4. Sobin, KK Split	17.3
5. Saric, Dubrava	16.0
6. Ridl, Darda	15.4
7. Helbich, Svjetlost	15.0
8. Ceskovic, Trogir	14.9
9. Kamaldin, Darda	14.8
10. Krolo, Darda	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Dalibor BAGARIC
  Marousi
  (217-C-80)
  Avg: 11.6

1. Bagaric, Dubrava	11.6
2. Krapic, Zabok	9.4
3. Radic, Alkar Sinj	8.9
4. Krolo, Darda	8.8
5. Saric, Dubrava	8.5
6. Sobin, KK Split	7.4
7. Ridl, Darda	6.4
8. Grgurevic, KK Split	6.3
9. Vukicevic, Svjetlost	6.2
10. Ragsdale, Kvarner .	6.0

Assists Per Game

Ozren MISIC
  Svjetlost
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Misic, Svjetlost	4.5
2. Blajic, Trogir	4.3
3. Jugo, Kvarner 2010	4.2
4. Tomeljak, Zabok	3.9
5. Delas, Alkar Sinj	3.8
6. Sarac, Svjetlost	3.4
7. Primorac, Dubrava	3.4
8. Peric, Dubrovnik	3.1
9. Dosen, Dubrovnik	3.0
10. Katic, KK Split	2.9

Steals Per Game

Ozren MISIC
  Svjetlost
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Misic, Svjetlost	2.5
2. Petani, Borik	2.4
3. Anzulovic, Alkar Sinj	2.3
4. Swift, Darda	1.9
5. Skific, Borik	1.9
6. Tomeljak, Zabok	1.8
7. Blajic, Trogir	1.8
8. Saric, Dubrava	1.7
9. Kamaldin, Darda	1.7
10. Zitko, Trogir	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Toni VITALI
  Trogir
  (201-F-91)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Vitali, Trogir	1.7
2. Bagaric, Dubrava	1.6
3. Ragsdale, Kvarner .	1.2
4. Sobin, KK Split	1.2
5. Sarlija, Borik	1.1
6. Kraljevic, Zabok	1.0
7. Karac, Dubrovnik	0.9
8. Krolo, Darda	0.9
9. Saric, Dubrava	0.8
10. Rikic, Dubrava	0.7

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CYPRUS

Fells is history! - by Chris Mammides
The American player of Keravnos Strovolou, Courtney Fells (198-G-86, college: N.Carolina St.) split ways with the team of Keravnos Strovolou Strovolou and he will continue his career most probably in the Israeli league. The American shooting guard was not as good and solid in the Strovolos team as he was in his first season in Cyprus with AEL's jersey. There are many excuses why the player is so different this season that his premier one, he had a different role in a different team with good backups and of course different culture team, all these elements brought the American player to be among the players who basically are doing a favor to the Strovolos team with their transfer to another league. There are rumors (especially after the fourth defeat from APOEL) that the Management of the Strovolos team will strengthen the team even more and not only with one player. Keravnos Strovolou and Memos Ioannou started this season with high hopes but after the elimination in the Cyprus Cup from the team of Achilleas Kaimakliou, and then the defeats from AEL and Apoel for the league (in less than three weeks the Strovolos team lost four games) the team is now definitely on a position between the second and the fifth after the 2 negative results against the very strong team (especially now with the addition of Arthur Lee (185-G-77, college: Stanford) of Cytavision Apoel Nicosia So, unless very critical decision will take place in the Strovolos team another season will be lost and this time not even with the slightest trophy as last season with the cup. An early elimination from the European courts, an early elimination from the Cyprus Cup and now after the second defeat from APOEL the first place in the regular season and together the absolute advantage of the home court is lost.

In some other behind the scene news, the team of Pizza Express Apollon seems to having some discussion with the ex Head Coach of Keravnos Strovolou Strovolou, Vassilis Fragias. This is not official yet but it seems that the new Head Coach of the Limassol team will be the Greek Coach

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CZECH REPUBLIC

D-LEAGUE

Bighorns trade Patrick Ewing, Jr. for former NBA draft pick Danny Green - by Eurobasket News
The Reno Bighorns traded forward Patrick Ewing (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown), Jr. to the Sioux Falls Skyforce in exchange for G/F Danny Green (6'6''-F/G-87, college: N.Carolina), a 2009 NBA Draft second round pick (46th overall) of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Green, who was a member of the 2009 NCAA-champion North Carolina Tar Heels, is the winningest player in UNC history. He is also the only player in ACC history with 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 250 assists, 150 three-pointers, 150 blocks and 150 steals.

The Bighorns completed the trade with the Skyforce after Sioux Falls claimed Green from the available player pool.

Ewing, Jr. had started Reno's first 25 games before coming off the bench Sunday at Iowa. He was averaging 15.8 points per game and 8.4 rebounds per game with Reno. He also had recorded eight double-doubles this season, good for 10th in the league.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Curtis Stinson is D-League Performer of week - by Eurobasket News
Curtis Stinson (6'2''-G-83, college: Iowa St.) of the Iowa Energy today was named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played the week of April 6, 2009. Stinson is the second Energy player to earn the honor this season.

Stinston led Iowa to a 2-0 record last week as the team clinched the Central Division title with averages of 21.5 points, 15.0 assists, 9.0 rebounds and 2.5 steals. His two 15-assist games marked the 19th and 20th time he has reached double-figures in assists this season.

This season, Stinson ranked third in the NBA D-league with 8.4 assists while also adding 16.1 points in 50 games, all starts for the Energy. The 6-2 guard from Iowa State is playing his third season in the NBA D-League.

Other top performers last week included Albuquerques Will Conroy, who averaged 31.0 points and 7.8 assists in four games for the Thunderbirds; Colorados Trey Gilder, who averaged 23.3 points and 8.5 rebounds in four games for the 14ers; Austins Malik Hairston, who averaged 38.0 points in three games for the Toros; Austins Dwayne Jones, who averaged 22.0 points and 18.5 rebounds in four games for the Toros; and Eries Maureece Rice, who averaged 28.0 points and 8.0 assists in two wins for the BayHawks.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Maine uses huge fourth quarter to snap losing skid - by Eurobasket News
Texas L. - Maine RC 89-95
The Maine Red Claws snapped a five-game losing streak on Monday night by defeating the Texas Legends 95-89 on Monday night at HP Court inside Dr Pepper Arena. After trailing 15-14, the Legends finished the first quarter on an 8-0 to take a seven point lead into the second. Texas would lead by as many as 11 points in the first half, but Maine would end the half on a 17-6 run to head into the break knotted up at 42. The teams would remain tied at 61 with under three minutes to go in the third. However, the Legends would finish the period on a 10-0 run and on top by ten. Maine would answer right back with a 17-1 run to start the fourth quarter and give the Red Claws a six-point lead. Down by nine with just 2:49 left in the game, Texas would go on a 7-0 run to get back within two at 87-85. Up by two with 42.6 seconds left, the Red Claws' DeShawn Sims (6'8''-F-88, college: Michigan) nailed a 3-pointer to put the game out of reach for the Legends. Texas was outscored 34-18 in the fourth quarter, sending Maine home with the victory. Matt Rogers (6'11''-C-87, college: SW Baptist) led the Legends with 18 points and eight rebounds. Joe Alexander (6'8''-F-86, college: W.Virginia) finished with 14 points and 12 boards, while Antonio Daniels added 10 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds. Jamar Smith (6'3''-G-87, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: S.Indiana) led five double-digit scorers for Maine with a team-high 17 points. The Legends are back in action on Wednesday night with the first meeting in franchise history against the Utah Flash. Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. at HP Court inside Dr Pepper Arena. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Standings

D-League Standings

Central Division
1. Iowa E.		19-7
2. Erie Bay H.		17-9
3. Ft.Wayne MA		12-14
4. Dakota W.		7-20
5. Sioux Falls S.		3-19
Southwest Division
1. Tulsa 66ers		20-6
2. Rio Grande		17-7
3. New Mexico		12-13
4. Texas L.		11-13
5. Maine RC		11-16
6. Austin T.		10-13
West Division
1. Bakersfield J.		16-10
2. Reno Bighorns		15-11
3. Utah F.		12-10
4. Idaho S.		9-16
5. Springfield A.		9-16

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 26

1. Johnson, Bakersfi.	26.0
2. Jeffers, Iowa E.	21.1
3. Alexander, Texas L.	20.2
4. Johnson, Erie B.	20.2
5. Dentmon, Texas L.	19.8
6. Edwards, New M.	19.4
7. Greene, Utah F.	19.0
8. Tucker, New Mexico	18.5
9. Stinson, Iowa E.	18.0
10. Sims, Maine RC	18.0

Rebounds Per Game

Jeff ADRIEN
  Rio Grande
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 11.9

1. Adrien, Rio Grande	11.9
2. Sims, Iowa E.	10.3
3. Patterson, Rio G.	10.3
4. Alexander, Texas L.	10.2
5. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	10.0
6. Johnson, Dakota W.	9.7
7. Williams, Texas L.	9.7
8. Davidson, Idaho S.	9.6
9. Jeffers, Iowa E.	9.6
10. Williams, Tulsa 66ers	8.8

Assists Per Game

Aaron MILES
  Reno Bighorns
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 8.7

1. Miles, Reno Bighorns	8.7
2. Stinson, Iowa E.	8.5
3. Jackson, Idaho S.	8.4
4. Daniels, Texas L.	8.3
5. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	7.6
6. Ahearn, Erie Bay H.	6.9
7. Jackson, Erie B.	6.6
8. Johnson, Austin T.	6.1
9. Bailey, Sioux F.	5.8
10. Wise, Bakersfield J.	5.7

Steals Per Game

Zabian DOWDELL
  Phoenix Suns
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers	2.5
2. Miles, Reno Bighorns	2.5
3. Jackson, Idaho S.	2.4
4. Lin, Reno Bighorns	2.3
5. Jeffers, Iowa E.	2.2
6. Linhart, Erie B.	2.2
7. Jackson, Erie B.	2.1
8. Lofton, Iowa E.	2.1
9. Hubbard, New M.	2.1
10. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sean WILLIAMS
  Texas L.
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Williams, Texas L.	3.3
2. Johnson, Dakota W.	3.1
3. N''Diaye, Dakota W.	2.7
4. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers	2.5
5. Alabi, Erie Bay H.	2.5
6. Naymick, Bakersfi.	2.3
7. Sykes, Sioux F.	2.3
8. Whiteside, Reno B.	2.2
9. Adrien, Rio Grande	1.8
10. Pittman, Sioux F.	1.8

Iowa Energy get two players in trades - by Eurobasket News
The Iowa Energy secured a replacement for injured guard Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86, college: Washington St.) and dealt post player Connor Atchley (6'10''-F/C-85, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Texas) in trades Monday.

The Energy picked up Marqus Blakely (6'5''-F-89, college: Vermont) from Bakersfield in exchange for their 2011 first-round draft pick. Blakely, a 6-foot-6 forward out of Vermont, averaged 13 points and 6.1 rebounds for Bakersfield.

Atchley netted the Energy Stanley Robinson (6'9''-F-88, college: Connecticut) from Rio Grande Valley. Robinson is a 6-8 forward who played at Connecticut before becoming a second-round 2010 NBA draft choice by Orlando. He played three games for the Vipers before suffering an injury.

Courtesy of www.desmoinesregister.com

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EBA

Metro All-stars Roster - by Justin Moore
The Lady Metropolitan Allstars are 3-0 and looking to lay claim to the 2011 EBA chip the Allstars have a goood combo of speed;size and lethal scorer Owner Calvin brown is really excited about the way this season is unfolding here is a look of this years roster.

Metropolitan all-stars roster 2011 (3-0)

Elyon Bush (6'7''-F-85, college: Delaware St.)
eric butler
cedric steward
Eric Wilkins (5'11-G)
Antwon Hawkins (6'5''-G, college: District of Col.)
Bryan Davidson (6'2''-G-87)
Andrew Harding (5'10''-G-82, college: Glenville St.)
Darnell Evans (6'3''-G, college: St.Francis, PA)
donald fleming
Curtis Crews (6'5''-G/F-84, college: Montgomery CC)
Terrance Carter (6'5''-F-84, college: JMU)
Calvin Brown (6'9''-C-83, college: Norfolk St.)
Burgess Williams (6'10''-C-82, college: W.Virginia St.)
Eric Poole (6'9''-F/C-76, college: Richmond)

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ESTONIA

Eziukwu's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old power forward Callistus Eziukwu (208-F/C-85) 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 20.
He had a double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat Kalev/Cramo (#2, 17-3) 81-71. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. 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 19-1. It was one of impressive evenings for Eziukwu as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Grand Valley State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Eziukwu is in league's top in rebounds (5th best: 9.1rpg) and averages solid 2.2bpg and 62.8% FGP.

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 28 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Rapla lost that game 75-89 to the higher-ranked TU/Rock (#1, 19-1). Rapla managed to keep the same 6th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-12 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 - center Vallo Allingu (206-C-78). Allingu scored 26 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was another key player of TU/Rock, helping his team with a 81-71 win against #2 ranked Kalev/Cramo in a game of the week. 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: 19 victories and only one lost games. They are currently at the very top of the standings. Allingu has a very solid season. In 15 games in Estonia he scored 11.0ppg. He also has 4.9rpg and FGP: 63.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Reimo Tamm (185-G-84) of Kalev/Cramo - 21 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) of TU/Rock - 15 points and 5 rebounds
6. Joosep Toome (202-F-85) of Kalev/Cramo - 13 points and 6 rebounds
7. Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) of TU/Rock - 11 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Timo Eichfuss (200-F-88) of TU/Rock - 12 points and 4 rebounds
9. Michael Dunigan (208-C-89) of Kalev/Cramo - 10 points and 4 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)

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EUROCHALLENGE

Standings

EuroChallenge Standings

Group I
1. Spartak SP			2-0
2. Lukoil Academik			1-1
3. Maccabi Haifa			1-1
4. Elitzur Netanya			0-2
Group J
1. Karsiyaka			2-0
2. Krka			1-1
3. M.Hainaut			1-1
4. Antwerp			0-2
Group K
1. Gravelines			1-0
2. Norrkoping			1-1
3. Ventspils			1-1
4. Benfica			0-1
Group L
1. Oostende			2-0
2. Lokomotiv			1-1
3. Zadar			1-1
4. BK Prostejov			0-2

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EUROCUP

Standings

Eurocup Standings

Group I
1. Unics			2-0
2. Gran Canaria			1-1
3. Hemofarm			1-1
4. Cedevita			0-2
Group J
1. Le Mans			1-1
2. Aris			1-1
3. Budivelnyk			1-1
4. Goettingen			1-1
Group K
1. Pepsi Caserta			2-0
2. Estudiantes			2-0
3. Galatasaray			0-2
4. CEZ Nymburk			0-2
Group L
1. Cajasol			2-0
2. Benetton TV			1-1
3. ALBA			0-1
4. Panellinios			0-1

Le Mans land Brandon Bowman - by Eurobasket News
Le Mans signed a short-term contract with Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown). The deal is meant for six weeks. The 26-year-old forward will replace injured Alain Koffe on the squad. Brandon Bowman started the season in Bulgaria. The forward played for Lukoil Academik averaging 10.1 points, 6.1 boards and 1.6 steals per game in NBL. In EuroChallenge his stats read 8.9 points, 4.1 boards per appearance. Earlier Brandon Bowman played in D-League, Italy, Germany and Turkey. The forward made it into Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team in 2009. Brandon Bowman will pass all the medical tests on Thursday. He is expected to strengthen Le Mans at the weekend when the team faces Strasbourg.

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EUROLEAGUE

Unicaja lands Gerald Fitch - by Eurobasket News
Unicaja came up with important signing. The Spanish outfit inked a deal for rest of the season with American Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky). He arrives to Malaga from Aliaga Petkim, where he averaged 18.8 points, 8.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists for six games in Turkish league. His best performance came against Turk Telekom: 30 points and 9 rebs.
Gerald Fitch started this season with Fuenlabrada, but they parted ways in October. Last season with Fuenla, Fitch had 17.9 ppg, 5 rpg and 2.7 apg. He ended the season as the second scorer of ACB. Eurobasket awarded Fitch with Spanish ACB All-Imports Team -10. In 2009, Fitch was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Player of the Year -09. He was a member of Kepez averaging 28.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5 assists and 2.1 steals in 14 TBL games. In the past, Fitch played for Cantu, Galatasaray, Austin Toros, Khimik Yuzhny and Cibona.

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FINLAND

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Jamar WILSON
  Honka
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.4

1. Wilson, Honka	22.4
2. Heard, Tarmo	21.6
3. Heard, Tarmo	21.6
4. Lewis, LrNM.	20.3
5. Walker, Kouvot	20.1
6. Blanchard, ToPo	20.0
7. Blanchard, ToPo	20.0
8. Wood, Karhu	19.6
9. Bailey, LrNM.	19.6
10. Williamson, Honka	19.2

Rebounds Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 13.7

1. Wood, Karhu	13.7
2. Kaunisto, Kouvot	10.6
3. Doaks, Salon Vilpas	10.1
4. Young, Tarmo	10.0
5. Young, Tarmo	10.0
6. Blanchard, ToPo	9.9
7. Mathis, Namika Lahti	9.9
8. Blanchard, ToPo	9.9
9. Vinson, Kouvot	9.7
10. Williams, Pyrinto	9.4

Assists Per Game

Dijuan HARRIS
  Salon Vilpas
  (175-G-86)
  Avg: 4.4

1. Harris, Salon Vilpas	4.4
2. Moore, LrNM.	4.4
3. Williams, Pyrinto	4.4
4. Okorie, Salon Vilpas	4.0
5. Suonio, Namika Lahti	3.9
6. Wood, Karhu	3.9
7. Sarcevic, Korihait	3.7
8. Virtanen, Kataja	3.7
9. Ivey, KTP	3.4
10. Kataja, Salon Vilpas	3.4

Steals Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Wood, Karhu	2.1
2. Newson, Kataja	2.0
3. Fields, KTP	1.9
4. Fells, Kataja	1.8
5. Conerly, Tarmo	1.8
6. Heard, Tarmo	1.8
7. Sarcevic, Korihait	1.8
8. Conerly, Tarmo	1.8
9. Heard, Tarmo	1.8
10. Moore, Korihait	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Todd HENDLEY
  Namika Lahti
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 0.9

1. Hendley, Namika Lahti	0.9
2. Reaves, Korihait	0.9
3. Heard, Tarmo	0.8
4. Heard, Tarmo	0.8
5. Bailey, LrNM.	0.7
6. Wood, Karhu	0.7
7. Moore, LrNM.	0.7
8. Wilson, Honka	0.6
9. Blanchard, ToPo	0.6
10. Belser, Honka	0.6

Ronald Douglas joins Salon Vilpas - by Eurobasket News
Ronald Douglas (201-C-87, college: S.Alabama) joins Salon Vilpas and already debuted for his new team. On January 23rd Salon Vilpas overcame Kouvot 77:71. Trailing 12-19 after the opening period, the hosts needed 24-16 in the last one to win the game.
In 2006-2007 Ronald Douglas started for Missis.Gulf Coast CC (JUCO) and the next two years spent for S.Alabama (NCAA). In 2009-2010 moved to Kaarinan Ura Basket (Finland-1st Division, starting five) and after 20 games averaged massive 15.6ppg, 10.9rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 42.6%. The season 2010-2011 started for Bohemios (Uruguay-LUB) but in January moved to Finland.
In Uruguay Ronald Douglas recorded 17 points and 17 rebounds as Bohemios overcame Trouville 77-67. He averaged 9.0 points per game for his previous team.
Over the last few years Douglas was mentioned as Sun Belt East Division Regular Season Champion -08, Sun Belt Tournament Semifinals -08, Sun Belt Tournament Finalist -09 and Eurobasket.com All-Finnish 1st Division Honorable Mention -10.

Benny Valentine claims Finnish 1st Division weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American Benny Valentine (170-G-87) had an amazing evening in the last round for Lapuan Korikobrat and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com 1st Division Player of the Week award for round 15.
The 23-year old guard had the game-high 27 points adding four rebounds and four assists for Lapua in his team's victory, helping them to outclass, the league's bottom-ranked team Namika II (#12, 0-15) with 33-point margin 88-55. Lapua maintains the 3rd position in Finnish 1st Division. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Lapua will need more victories to improve their 10-5 record. In the team's last game Valentine had a remarkable 87.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be Lapua's top player in his first season with the team. Eastern Washington University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Valentine is in league's top in points (8th best: 18.6ppg), assists (7th best: 3.0apg) and averages solid 2.9spg and 55.7% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old American guard Maurice Horton (183-G-84) of LoKoKo. Horton impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 18 points and 15 rebounds. Of course he lead LoKoKo to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked TomPo II (#10, 6-9) 83-62. This victory allowed LoKoKo to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 8-6 record is not bad and everything may still change. Horton is a newcomer at LoKoKo and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Bahamas Jamal Douglas (201-F-85) of Huima (#7). Douglas scored 28 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Douglas' great performance Huima lost 79-93 to the higher-ranked FoKoPo (#1, 12-3). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Huima 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, Douglas could help Huima to bring them higher in the standings. Douglas has a great season in Finland. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.4ppg (9th best) and rebounds with 14.2rpg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Derick Nelson (196-F-86) of Lapua - 31 points and 11 rebounds
5. Zach Ramey (191-F/G-81) of Ura Basket - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Samuli Vanttaja (210-F/C-91) of Honka - 21 points and 12 rebounds
7. J'son Stamper (200-F/C-85) of LoKoKo - 21 points and 16 rebounds
8. Timo Riihela (193-G-80) of BC Nokia - 19 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Andre Foreman (198-F/G-69) of FoKoPo - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Sakari Salminen (200-F-87) of Ura Basket - 12 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)

Salon Vilpas Vikings adds Douglas to their roster - by Eurobasket
Salon Vilpas Vikings added to their roster 24-year old American center Ronald Douglas (201-C-87, college: S.Alabama). Douglas played most recently at Bohemios (Uruguay). While playing 17 games for Bohemios this season he averaged 9.0ppg, 8.8rpg and 0.8bpg.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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FRANCE

Raptors acquire center Ajinca from Dallas - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors have acquired seven-foot-two centre Alexis Ajinca (7'1''-C-88), a future second-round draft pick and cash considerations from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for the draft rights to forward Giorgos Printezis.

Toronto also reacquired the second-round selection they sent to Dallas in June for the draft rights to Solomon Alabi.

Having cleared our a roster spot, the Mavericks announced the signing of free agent Peja Stojakovic who was bought out by Toronto last Thursday.

Acquired from New Orleans in November, the former all-star played just two games for the Raptors before being sidelined with a knee injury.

Ajinca, 22, averaged 2.9 points, 1.7 rebounds and 7.5 minutes in 10 games with the Mavericks. He was acquired from Charlotte on July 13, 2010.

The Bobcats drafted Ajinca in the first round, 20th overall, in 2008.

Ajinca played two seasons in his native France before joining Charlotte.

The Raptors acquired the rights to Printezis (selected 58th overall) in the 2007 draft from San Antonio for a future second-round pick.

Ajinca is scheduled to join the Raptors for Wednesday's game against Philadelphia.

Courtesy of www.cbc.ca

Orleans parts ways with Troy Bell and Zach Moss - by Eurobasket News
Troy Bell (186-G-80, college: Boston Coll.) and Zach Moss (201-F-81, college: Mountain St.) are no longer members of Orleans. The French outfit parted ways with the players yesterday.
Troy Bell arrived to the club last summer from Vanoli Cremona. He played 15 games in ProA averaging 14.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists. For five games in EuroChallenge, Bell added 11.6 ppg and 3.6 rpg. He also appeared twice in Euro Cup registering 15 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 3 apg.
Zach Moss also joined the club last summer, but from JA Vichy Val d'Allier Auvergne. He had 6.8 ppg and 3.9 rpg for Orleans in ProA this season. His numbers in EuroChallenge increased to 8.8 ppg and 4.8 rpg for five games. Moss won the ProB championship in 2007 with JA Vichy.

Le Mans tame visiting Aris - by Eurobasket News
Le Mans - Aris 85:70

Le Mans opened EuroCup Last 16 round win count. They held off visiting Aris to catch up with Aris at 1-1 record in Group J. Alex Acker (196-G-83, college: Pepperdine) stepped up with 19 points and 6 assists to pace Le Mans.
Le Mans cleared off to a 7-point lead midway through the opening quarter. But Aris responded with eight points in a row to surge ahead. The hosts however capped the period with a bucket to take a 19:18 lead. Aris and Le Mans traded baskets throughout a close second stanza. A seesaw action resulted in Le Mans leading by a single point at halftime 43:42. The hosts started to run away in the third term. They limited Aris to 12 points in the period and posted a comfortable 13-point lead with one quarter to go. Le Mans never loosened the grasp and drove to the victory in the final stanza. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) came up with 15 points, while Mihalis Kakiouzis (206-C-76) netted 14 points for the winners. Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82) responded with 14 points and 8 rebounds for Aris. P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) had 13 points in the loss.

Le Mans: Alex Acker 19, Joao Paulo Batista 15, Mihalis Kakiouzis 14
Aris: Christos Tapoutos 14, P.J. Tucker 13

Le Mans land Brandon Bowman - by Eurobasket News
Le Mans signed a short-term contract with Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown). The deal is meant for six weeks. The 26-year-old forward will replace injured Alain Koffe on the squad. Brandon Bowman started the season in Bulgaria. The forward played for Lukoil Academik averaging 10.1 points, 6.1 boards and 1.6 steals per game in NBL. In EuroChallenge his stats read 8.9 points, 4.1 boards per appearance. Earlier Brandon Bowman played in D-League, Italy, Germany and Turkey. The forward made it into Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga 2nd Team in 2009. Brandon Bowman will pass all the medical tests on Thursday. He is expected to strengthen Le Mans at the weekend when the team faces Strasbourg.

Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game

Larry BLAIR
  Denek
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 24.8

1. Blair, Denek	24.8
2. Pridotkas, Brest	17.8
3. Kennedy, Orchy	17.6
4. Petrovic, St Et.	17.0
5. Blot, Blois	17.0
6. Lalugba, Denain	16.6
7. Lesieu, St Quentin	16.2
8. Ford, Bordeaux	15.8
9. Disy, Roche	15.8
10. Laroche, St Ch.	15.7

Rebounds Per Game

Lavar SIMMONS
  St Etienne
  (201-F/C-83)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Simmons, St Et.	9.2
2. Grimm, Blois	8.3
3. Lesieu, St Quentin	8.3
4. Pasut, Sorgues	8.2
5. Alingue, Souffel	8.2
6. Boutry, Challans	8.0
7. Griffin, Angers B.	7.9
8. Roberts, Brest	7.8
9. Hoard, Lievin	7.8
10. Kennedy, Orchy	7.7

Assists Per Game

Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.2

1. Rathieuville, Brest	6.2
2. Cortey, Le Puy	6.0
3. Brochard, Blois	5.8
4. Ramphort, Angers B.	4.9
5. Barbry, Orchy	4.5
6. Thomas, St Etienne	4.2
7. Darrigand, Bordeaux	4.2
8. Driss, Bordeaux	4.1
9. Sauret, Denain	4.1
10. Rambur, St Quentin	3.8

Steals Per Game

Larry BLAIR
  Denek
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 3

1. Blair, Denek	3.0
2. Neri, Roche	2.2
3. Ipouck, Le Puy	2.1
4. Sauret, Denain	2.1
5. Pistre, Le Puy	2.0
6. Driss, Bordeaux	1.8
7. Blot, Blois	1.7
8. Roberts, Brest	1.6
9. Barbry, Orchy	1.6
10. Dessart, Lievin	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Jean-Stephane RINNA
  St Chamond
  (205-F-83)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Rinna, St Chamond	1.9
2. Traore, Angers B.	1.8
3. Ford, Bordeaux	1.8
4. Alingue, Souffel	1.8
5. Lalugba, Denain	1.3
6. Pasut, Sorgues	1.1
7. Ipouck, Le Puy	1.1
8. Kennedy, Orchy	1.1
9. Gourde, Get Vosges	1.0
10. Kolb, Blois	1.0

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GERMANY

A Conversation With Derrick Allen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) is a 203cm forward that grew up in Gadsen Alabama and is playing his first season with Alba Berlin. He is a rugged inside player who attacks the glass, will provide help on the boards, is a solid defender in the post, a competitor and hard worker that can score facing the basket and has shooting range to the foul line. He started his career at Southern Union State from 1998-2000. He then transferred to Mississippi and played there from 2000-2003. He then started his professional basketball career in Iceland playing for Keflavikur ripping up the FIBA Europe Cup playing 8 games and averaging 26.6ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.8spg and playing 22 games in the Iceland league averaging 23,4ppg, 10.5rpg. He won the Icelandic league and cup title in his rookie season. In 2004, he ventured to Germany and has played there ever since with two years in Karlsruhe, one year in Leverkusen and played with The Deutsche Bank Skyliners from 2007-2010 playing 148 games for them. In 2006-2007, he led Leverksuen into the playoffs and led the BBL in scoring playing 38 games and averaging 16.5ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 50.6%, 3FGP: 32.3%, FT: 72.2%. In 2007-2008, he was second best scorer in the BBL for Frankfurt playing 43 games and averaging 18.1ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 75.6%; and playing 10 ULEB Cup games finishing as the third best scorer averaging 19.9ppg, 7.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 54%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 72.9%. He has reached four BBL playoffs in five seasons and played in the four BEKO BBL Allstar games He spoke to eurobasket at the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game.

What do you like most about the BEKO BBL Allstar day? You have been a part of these festivities four times?

It is nice seeing the different players from all the teams and seeing the fans taking pictures and having so much fun.

What was your impression of AJ Moye? He seems to keep getting better each day.

AJ is in great spirits. He is a funny guy and I am happy that he has had such a great recovery. I hope he is playing on the court again soon, but the most important thing is that he gets healthy and then the next step is for him to play games. It was just really great to see him and I will embrace him after the game and have fun.

You must have been surprised about Alba Berlin coach Luka Pavicevic having to step down?

This was a big surprise for me. It was a shock for me. He is a great coach with a great basketball mind. He has a lot of success with alba Berlin winning the title reaching the Euroleague top 16 and Eurocup final. It is tough in Berlin, because you have to win. I wish him all the best.

There have been rumours about Pini Gershon and the father of Marko Pesic becoming coach. what do you know?

I have no idea who will be our new coach. I was told that a decision will be made on Monday.

How do you like playing in Berlin?

I love playing in Berlin. I knew Frankfurt pretty well, but Berlin is a lot bigger and there is always something new to see. There are many tourists there and the team is doing great so I am happy.

What has been your impression of The Deutsche Bank Skyliners this season?

Frankfurt accomplished a lot last season and then changed their team. Management did a great job getting good new players and they have made a statement this season ending in second place at The Allstar break. Wood is a great player and was a big steal for them. Mckinney and Powell have helped with scoring and Chris Moss has been a good addition under the boards. I see them reaching the BEKO BBL cup top 4 and playoffs.

Who will win the 2011 BEKO BBL three point shooting contest?

I have to go with Jacob Burtschi. He is a great shooter with great range.

Who will win the 2011 BEKO BBL slam dunk contest?

I hope that Tez will win after getting robbed last season. He will get good competition from Torrell Martin.

Who will reach the 2011 Superbowl and who will win it?

The New York Jets will face the Chicago Bears with the Bears winning.

Thanks Derrick for the chat.

Face To Face With Derrick Allen (Alba Berlin) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) is a 203cm forward that grew up in Gadsen Alabama and is playing his first season with Alba Berlin. He is a rugged inside player who attacks the glass, will provide help on the boards, is a solid defender in the post, a competitor and hard worker that can score facing the basket and has shooting range to the foul line. He started his career at Southern Union State from 1998-2000. He then transferred to Mississippi and played there from 2000-2003. He then started his professional basketball career in Iceland playing for Keflavikur ripping up the FIBA Europe Cup playing 8 games and averaging 26.6ppg, 9.4rpg, 2.5apg, 1.8spg and playing 22 games in the Iceland league averaging 23,4ppg, 10.5rpg. He won the Icelandic league and cup title in his rookie season. In 2004, he ventured to Germany and has played there ever since with two years in Karlsruhe, one year in Leverkusen and played with The Deutsche Bank Skyliners from 2007-2010 playing 148 games for them. In 2006-2007, he led Leverksuen into the playoffs and led the BBL in scoring playing 38 games and averaging 16.5ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 50.6%, 3FGP: 32.3%, FT: 72.2%. In 2007-2008, he was second best scorer in the BBL for Frankfurt playing 43 games and averaging 18.1ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 50.4%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 75.6%; and playing 10 ULEB Cup games finishing as the third best scorer averaging 19.9ppg, 7.9rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 54%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 72.9%. He has reached four BBL playoffs in five seasons and played in the four BEKO BBL Allstar games He spoke to eurobasket at the 2011 BEKO BBL Allstar game in Trier.

What do you like most about the BEKO BBL Allstar day? You have been a part of these festivities four times?

It is nice seeing the different players from all the teams and seeing the fans taking pictures and having so much fun.

What was your impression of AJ Moye? He seems to keep getting better each day.

AJ is in great spirits. He is a funny guy and I am happy that he has had such a great recovery. I hope he is playing on the court again soon, but the most important thing is that he gets healthy and then the next step is for him to play games. It was just really great to see him and I will embrace him after the game and have fun.

You must have been surprised about Alba Berlin coach Luka Pavicevic having to step down?

This was a big surprise for me. It was a shock for me. He is a great coach with a great basketball mind. He has a lot of success with alba Berlin winning the title reaching the Euroleague top 16 and Eurocup final. It is tough in Berlin, because you have to win. I wish him all the best.

There have been rumours about Pini Gershon and the father of Marko Pesic becoming coach. what do you know?

I have no idea who will be our new coach. I was told that a decision will be made on Monday.

How do you like playing in Berlin?

I love playing in Berlin. I knew Frankfurt pretty well, but Berlin is a lot bigger and there is always something new to see. There are many tourists there and the team is doing great so I am happy.

What has been your impression of The Deutsche Bank Skyliners this season?

Frankfurt accomplished a lot last season and then changed their team. Management did a great job getting good new players and they have made a statement this season ending in second place at The Allstar break. Wood is a great player and was a big steal for them. Mckinney and Powell have helped with scoring and Chris Moss has been a good addition under the boards. I see them reaching the BEKO BBL cup top 4 and playoffs.

Who will win the 2011 BEKO BBL three point shooting contest?

I have to go with Jacob Burtschi. He is a great shooter with great range.

Who will win the 2011 BEKO BBL slam dunk contest?

I hope that Tez will win after getting robbed last season. He will get good competition from Torrell Martin.

Who will reach the 2011 Superbowl and who will win it?

The New York Jets will face the Chicago Bears with the Bears winning.

Thanks Derrick for the chat.

Budivelnyk outscore Goettingen in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Budivelnyk - Goettingen 68:56

Budivelnyk record the first win in EuroCup Last 16. They overcame Goettingen in Ukraine to improve at 1-1 record. Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) scored 19 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the effort. Goettingen slipped at 1-1 record after the loss.
Goettingen got to the better start as they led for some time in the opening quarter. But Budivelnyk recovered and pulled ahead for a 19:17 lead at the first intermission. Goettingen struggled offensively in the second period. The visitors accounted for just 9 points in the period and the hosts capitalized stretching the lead to as many as 8 points at halftime. The hosts mounted the pressure in the third term. Budivelnyk cleared off to a double-digit lead and entered the fourth quarter up by 21 points 56:35. Goettingen did not surrender as they trimmed the deficit to 10 points late in regulation. But the Ukrainian team survived the test and rolled to the victory at the end. Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) provided 14 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts. Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points in the win. John Little (180-G-84, college: N.Iowa) responded with 14 points for Goettingen. Trenton Meacham (188-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Illinois) had 13 points in defeat.

Budivelnyk: Lamayne Wilson 19, Zach Morley 14, Andriy Agafonov 13
Goettingen: John Little 14, Trenton Meacham 13

Brandon Johnson Joins BG Karlsruhe - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO A club BG Karlsruhe got active on the transfer market obtaining Brandon Johnson (185-G-86, college: ODU) Johnson is a 25 year old 185cm point guard from Orlando Florida who BG Karlsruhe hopes will help the back court. Last season, he played for CSU Atlassib Sibiu (Romania-Div.A, starting five): 34 games: 10.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.4apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 17.0%, FT: 64.9%. He started his basketball career in 2005 for Old Dominion (NCAA). In his senior year 2007-2008, he played 34 games: 7.5ppg, 4.1rpg, 4.6apg, 2.7spg, FGP: 40.3%, 3Pts: 26.0%, FT: 71.2%. He started his rookie season as a professional in 2008-2009 for CSU Atlassib Sibiu (Romania-Div.A, starting five): EuroChallenge: 2 games: 11.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 2.0apg, 1.5spg; Romanian League: 35 games: 10.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 3.5apg, Steals-2 (2.9spg), FGP: 48.9%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 53.1%. Some Awards/Achievements that Johnson has obtained in his young career has been, NIT Final Four -06, CAA Regular Season Runner-Up -07, CAA All-Defensive Team -07, 08, All-CAA Defensive Player of the Year -08, Romanian League Semifinals -09, Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League Honorable Mention -09, and Eurobasket.com Romanian League All-Defensive Team -09, 10.

Source: BG Karlsruhe

German ProA round 17 best performance: Achmadschah Zazai - by Eurobasket News
Naturalized Afghani guard Achmadschah Zazai (177-G-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Chemnitz, receiving a Eurobasket.com ProA Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 24-year old player got a double-double of 14 points and 10 assists, while his team outclassed Kirchheim (#4, 11-6) with 26-point margin 98-72. Chemnitz is placed at 3rd position in Afghani ProA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Chemnitz will need more victories to improve their 12-5 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Zazai as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Achmadschah Zazai has solid league stats. He is in league's top in assists (3rd best: 5.5apg) and averages impressive 2.1spg and 56.1% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Kameron Gray (186-G-82) of Crailsheim Merlins. Gray had a very good evening with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Of course he lead Crailsheim to another comfortable win 92-73 over the lower-ranked Dragons (#13, 5-12) being unquestionably team leader. Crailsheim's 6th position in has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 10-7 record is not bad and everything may still change. Gray is a newcomer at Crailsheim, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.3ppg (#6). He also recorded 6.0 assists per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Chemnitz's star - American guard Gary Johnson (188-G-82). Johnson scored 25 points and grabbed six rebounds. He was another key player of Chemnitz, helping his team with a 98-72 easy win against #4 ranked Kirchheim in a game of the week. Chemnitz needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in . Their record at this point is 12 victories and 5 lost games. Johnson has a great season in Germany. After 17 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.7ppg (best scorer) and assists with 2.4apg (6th best). He also has 2.5spg and FGP: 53.3%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Deilvez Yearby (198-F-87) of Cuxhaven - 19 points, 16 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Jamar Nutter (188-G-84) of Freiburg - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Marcus Smallwood (198-F-82) of Kirchheim - 13 points and 13 rebounds
7. Timothy Burnette (188-G-82) of Osnabrueck - 8 points, 4 rebounds and 11 assists
8. Kejuan Johnson (193-G-85) of Webmoebel - 29 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Jeremy Black (203-F-85) of Karlsruhe - 12 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann (207-C-90) of Dragons - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 2 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)

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

GREECE

Le Mans tame visiting Aris - by Eurobasket News
Le Mans - Aris 85:70

Le Mans opened EuroCup Last 16 round win count. They held off visiting Aris to catch up with Aris at 1-1 record in Group J. Alex Acker (196-G-83, college: Pepperdine) stepped up with 19 points and 6 assists to pace Le Mans.
Le Mans cleared off to a 7-point lead midway through the opening quarter. But Aris responded with eight points in a row to surge ahead. The hosts however capped the period with a bucket to take a 19:18 lead. Aris and Le Mans traded baskets throughout a close second stanza. A seesaw action resulted in Le Mans leading by a single point at halftime 43:42. The hosts started to run away in the third term. They limited Aris to 12 points in the period and posted a comfortable 13-point lead with one quarter to go. Le Mans never loosened the grasp and drove to the victory in the final stanza. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) came up with 15 points, while Mihalis Kakiouzis (206-C-76) netted 14 points for the winners. Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82) responded with 14 points and 8 rebounds for Aris. P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) had 13 points in the loss.

Le Mans: Alex Acker 19, Joao Paulo Batista 15, Mihalis Kakiouzis 14
Aris: Christos Tapoutos 14, P.J. Tucker 13

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HOLLAND

McDermott's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
23-year old forward Geoff McDermott (203-F-87, agency: Interperformances) put on an amazing game in the last round for Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 22.
He had a double-double of 21 points and 16 rebounds, while his team beat Giants (#8, 7-15) 84-75. Magixx maintains the 4th position in Dutch league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Magixx will need more victories to improve their 13-9 record. It was one of impressive evenings for McDermott as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Providence College graduate has very impressive stats this year. McDermott is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 9.5rpg) and averages solid 2.3spg.

Second best performed player last round was Brandon Griffin (202-F-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy) of WCAA Giants Bergen op Zoom. He is American forward in his 3rd season at Giants. In the last game Griffin recorded impressive double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds. Bad luck as Giants lost that game 75-84 to the higher-ranked Magixx (#4, 13-9). Giants 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 7-15 record. Griffin is one of the most experienced players at Giants and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Patrick Hilliman (206-F/C-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy) of Rotterdam Challengers (#10). Hilliman scored 24 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Despite Hilliman's great performance Rotterdam lost 63-83 to slightly higher-ranked Landstede (#9, 6-16). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Rotterdam can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-21 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Hilliman he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Hilliman has individually a great season in Holland. After 22 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.8ppg (7th best) and rebounds with 9.8rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Matt Haryasz (210-C-84) of GasTerra - 18 points and 12 rebounds
5. Ross Bekkering (203-F-85) of ZZ Leiden - 18 points and 10 rebounds
6. Markel Humphrey (198-F-87) of Magixx - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Lawrence Borha (191-G-84) of Landstede - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Robbie Sihota (198-F-87) of Rotterdam - 13 points and 12 rebounds
9. Arno Bunnig (197-F-85) of Landstede - 11 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Rein Van der Kamp (202-F-79) of Landstede - 21 points, 4 rebounds and 3 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)

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

IRELAND

SuperLeague Round 14: Dart Killester edges Neptune by one point - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 14 in the SuperLeague took place in Cork. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of 3rd ranked Neptune (7-6) to first ranked Dart Killester (11-2) 63-62 on Saturday evening. Defending champion maintains first position with 11-2 record, which they share with UL Eagles. Neptune at the other side keeps the third place with six games lost. Dart Killester is looking forward to face UCD Marian (#3) in Dublin in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Neptune will play on the road against the league's leader UL Eagles in Limerick and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Belfast. First ranked UL Eagles faced 4th ranked Belfast Star. Guests from Limerick (11-2) smashed host Belfast Star (5-7) 91-55. American power forward Cameron Mitchell (201-88, college: Willamette, agency: N.E.T.) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 32 points and 13 rebounds. Matthew Hall contributed with 23 points and 6 assists for the winners. American forward Clayton Longmire (201-84, college: St.Rose (NY)) replied with 16 points for Belfast Star. Belfast Star's coach Danny Fulton gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. UL Eagles have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-2 record, which they share with Killester. Belfast Star at the other side keeps the fourth place with seven games lost. UL Eagles will play against Neptune (#3) in Cork in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Belfast Star will play on the road against the league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Moycullen. Third ranked UCD Marian faced 4th ranked Moycullen. Guests from Dublin (7-7) defeated host Moycullen (1-13) 91-73. James Crowder had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners. Mason Ambler responded with a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds (on 16-of-21 shooting from the field). Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. UCD Marian moved-up to second place, which they share with DCU Saints. Moycullen lost eighth consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with 13 games lost. UCD Marian will meet league's leader Dart Killester in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play against Ulster Elks and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Dublin. Third ranked DCU Saints faced second-ranked UCC Demons. Host DCU Saints (7-7) smashed guests from Cork (8-4) 94-73. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of UCC Demons. Patrick Crean notched a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds to lead the effort. DCU Saints moved-up to second place, which they share with UCD Marian. UCC Demons at the other side keep the second position with four games lost. DCU Saints' next round opponent will be UCD Marian (#3) in Dublin, which may be the game of the day. UCC Demons will play at home against Belfast Star and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Ulster was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Belfast Star (5-7) played at the court of 5th ranked Ulster Elks (2-11). Belfast Star defeated Ulster Elks 93-80 on Sunday. The best player for the winners was Clayton Longmire who had a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds. Belfast Star's coach Danny Fulton used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Belfast Star maintains fourth position with 5-7 record. Ulster Elks lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth place with 11 games lost. Belfast Star will face league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Ulster Elks will play at home against Moycullen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Belfast Star - UL Eagles 55-91

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Belfast. First ranked UL Eagles faced 4th ranked Belfast Star. Guests from Limerick (11-2) smashed host Belfast Star (5-7) 91-55. They outrebounded Belfast Star 33-21 including 24 on the defensive glass. It was a great shooting night for UL Eagles especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 29 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Belfast Star's players. American power forward Cameron Mitchell (201-88, college: Willamette, agency: N.E.T.) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 32 points and 13 rebounds. American-Welsh guard Matthew Hall (186-75, college: Earlham) contributed with 23 points and 6 assists for the winners. American forward Clayton Longmire (201-84, college: St.Rose (NY)) replied with 16 points and his fellow American import guard Matthew Jackson (191-90, college: Humboldt St.) added 13 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) in the effort for Belfast Star. Belfast Star's coach Danny Fulton gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. UL Eagles have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-2 record, which they share with Killester. Belfast Star at the other side keeps the fourth place with seven games lost. UL Eagles will play against Neptune (#3) in Cork in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Belfast Star will play on the road against the league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Belfast Star: C.Longmire 16+1reb+3ast, M.Jackson 13+4reb, C.Johnston 7+4reb+2ast, J.Burns 6+4reb+1ast, S.Dawson 5, N.McCotter 4
UL Eagles: C.Mitchell 32+13reb+3ast, M.Hall 23+1reb+6ast, S.King 13+6reb+3ast, C.Cuffe 11+1reb, R.Lynch 6+7reb+3ast, S.Kinevane 6+5reb+14ast

Moycullen - UCD Marian 73-91

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Moycullen. Third ranked UCD Marian faced 4th ranked Moycullen. Guests from Dublin (7-7) defeated host Moycullen (1-13) 91-73. They outrebounded Moycullen 39-27 including a 32-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. UCD Marian looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Moycullen's players. American forward James Crowder (201-86, college: Pfeiffer, agency: Agency No 10) had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Neil Baynes (198-87) chipped in 30 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks during the contest. American forward Mason Ambler (198-85, college: Coker, agency: R.H.Consultancy) responded with a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds (on 16-of-21 shooting from the field) and forward Stephen Tummon (197-90) scored 16 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. UCD Marian moved-up to second place, which they share with DCU Saints. Moycullen lost eighth consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with 13 games lost. UCD Marian will meet league's leader Dart Killester in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play against Ulster Elks and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Moycullen: M.Ambler 37+12reb, S.Tummon 16+4reb+2ast, P.O'Brien 6, J.Loughnane 6+1reb+1ast, D.Cunningham 4+4reb+2ast, J.O'Brien 3+1reb+1ast
UCD Marian: N.Baynes 30+6reb+2ast, D.James 21+5reb+3ast, J.Crowder 21+12reb+8ast, C.Meany 9+3reb+6ast, M.Higgins 4+2reb+1ast, N.Meany 4+4reb+2ast

Ulster Elks - Belfast Star 80-93

The game in Ulster was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Belfast Star (5-7) played at the court of 5th ranked Ulster Elks (2-11). Belfast Star defeated Ulster Elks 93-80 on Sunday. Belfast Star forced 20 Ulster Elks turnovers. The best player for the winners was American forward Clayton Longmire (201-84, college: St.Rose (NY)) who had a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 18 rebounds. British guard Scott Summersgill (173-71) chipped in 30 points. Belfast Star's coach Danny Fulton used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Benjamin De La Cruz produced a double-double by scoring 30 points and 15 rebounds (on 14-of-16 shooting from the field) and swingman Kevin Foley (193-83) added 35 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Belfast Star maintains fourth position with 5-7 record. Ulster Elks lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth place with 11 games lost. Belfast Star will face league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Ulster Elks will play at home against Moycullen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ulster Elks: K.Foley 35+5reb+2ast, B.De La Cruz 30+15reb, G.Connolly 10+3reb+4ast, C.McEvilly 4+3reb+10ast, P.McGaharan 2+3reb+5ast, L.Conor 0
Belfast Star: C.Longmire 36+18reb+2ast, S.Summersgill 30+3reb+3ast, F.Toner 7+2reb+1ast, M.Jackson 6+2reb, M.McKillop 6+3reb+2ast, S.Dawson 4+4reb+1ast

DCU Saints - UCC Demons 94-73

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Dublin. Third ranked DCU Saints faced second-ranked UCC Demons. Host DCU Saints (7-7) smashed guests from Cork (8-4) 94-73. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of UCC Demons. DCU Saints forced 19 UCC Demons turnovers. American forward Patrick Crean (193, college: Springfield) notched a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds to lead the effort and the former international guard Emmett Donnelly (186-78) supported him with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Five DCU Saints players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 26 points and 15 rebounds by American power forward Marcus Van (201-85, college: Cent.Michigan) did not help to save the game for UCC Demons. Guard Ciaran O'Sullivan (193-90) added 18 points for the guests. DCU Saints moved-up to second place, which they share with UCD Marian. UCC Demons at the other side keep the second position with four games lost. DCU Saints' next round opponent will be UCD Marian (#3) in Dublin, which may be the game of the day. UCC Demons will play at home against Belfast Star and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
UCC Demons: M.Van 26+15reb+2ast, C.O'Sullivan 18+2reb+1ast, S.Duggan 13+1reb+1ast, K.Hosford 9+3reb+2ast, S.Coughlan 5+4reb+2ast, D.O'Sullivan 2+1reb+2ast
DCU Saints: P.Crean 26+10reb+1ast, E.Donnelly 20+8reb+3ast, E.Darling 17+4reb+1ast, M.Provizors 10+8reb+2ast, M.Chubb 10+2reb+2ast, J.Donnelly 6+1ast

Neptune - Killester 62-63

The most exciting game of round 14 in the SuperLeague took place in Cork. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of 3rd ranked Neptune (7-6) to first ranked Dart Killester (11-2) 63-62 on Saturday evening. Defending champion maintains first position with 11-2 record, which they share with UL Eagles. Neptune at the other side keeps the third place with six games lost. Dart Killester is looking forward to face UCD Marian (#3) in Dublin in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Neptune will play on the road against the league's leader UL Eagles in Limerick and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Clayton LONGMIRE
  Belfast Star
  (201-F-84)
  Avg: 29.9

1. Longmire, Belfast .	29.9
2. Bonaparte, Neptune	29.3
3. Foley, Ulster Elks	24.3
4. Mitchell, UL Ea.	24.2
5. Van, UCC Demons	24.0
6. Turner, Killester	22.8
7. Crowder, UCD M.	22.8
8. De La Cruz, Ulster E.	22.5
9. Ambler, Moycullen	21.4
10. O''Reilly, UCC D.	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Cameron MITCHELL
  UL Eagles
  (201-F/C-88)
  Avg: 14.7

1. Mitchell, UL Ea.	14.7
2. Van, UCC Demons	13.8
3. Ambler, Moycullen	13.3
4. De La Cruz, Ulster E.	12.8
5. Crowder, UCD M.	10.9
6. Turner, Killester	10.7
7. Provizors, DCU S.	9.9
8. Bonaparte, Neptune	9.8
9. Longmire, Belfast .	9.2
10. Trimmer, DCU S.	8.8

Assists Per Game

Scott KINEVANE
  UL Eagles
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Kinevane, UL Eagles	7.4
2. Donnelly, DCU S.	5.6
3. Meany, UCD Marian	5.4
4. Drumm, Ulster Elks	4.4
5. Noonan, Neptune	4.2
6. Westbrooks, Killester	3.3
7. Turner, Killester	3.3
8. Clarke, Killester	3.3
9. Foley, Ulster Elks	3.2
10. Crowder, UCD M.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Michael MCGINN
  Neptune
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 3.4

1. McGinn, Neptune	3.4
2. Donnelly, DCU S.	2.6
3. Westbrooks, Killester	2.5
4. Noonan, Neptune	2.4
5. Darling, DCU Saints	2.3
6. Turner, Killester	2.3
7. Nihill, Moycullen	2.3
8. Crowder, UCD M.	2.3
9. Dowd, Moycullen	2.1
10. Lacey, DCU Saints	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Marcus VAN
  UCC Demons
  (201-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Van, UCC Demons	2.5
2. Bonaparte, Neptune	2.4
3. Baynes, UCD Marian	2.4
4. Turner, Killester	2.1
5. Trimmer, DCU S.	2.0
6. Longmire, Belfast .	1.9
7. De La Cruz, Ulster E.	1.3
8. Ambler, Moycullen	1.1
9. Crowder, UCD M.	1.0
10. Duggan, UCC Demons	0.8

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ISRAEL

Two Israeli teams met in the second day of the EuroChallenge Group I - by Eurobasket News
Barak Netanya-Maccabi Haifa 73:80

Two Israeli teams met in the second day of the EuroChallenge Group I. Maccabi Haifa stole 80:73 win over Barak in Netanya for 1-1 record, while another Israeli team fell at 0-2.
The opening quarter saw both teams trading baskets and leads throughout the period. The hosts looked better and enjoyed 21:18 lead after 10 minutes in the court. The second period saw Maccabi Haifa begin to stamp their authority on the game as they edged ahead of their hosts. After 21-14 in it Boris Rothbart (218-C-86, agency: Avi Zilberman) sent the teams to the lockers for 39:35 lead. Robinson scored for 44:37, while the hosts took 1-point lead after thirty minutes. Romeo Travis (201-F-84, college: Akron) gave them 56:53 and Washam followed him for 65:61. Maccabi Haifa however played better at the very end to seal the victory.
Killingsworth top-scored for the winners with 21 points for the initial win. Boris Rothbart followed him with 17 points and Sylven Landesberg (198-G-90, college: Virginia) added 10.

Barak Netanya: Elton Brown (206-F/C-83, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Virginia) 26, Adrian Banks (191-G-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) 15, Romeo Travis 14, Brenner 8
Maccabi Haifa: Killingsworth 21, Boris Rothbart 17, Sylven Landesberg 10

Standings - BSL

Premier League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A		14-1
2. Hapoel J-M		10-5
3. Bnei Hasharon		9-6
4. Maccabi Ashdod		8-7
5. Galil Gilboa		8-7
6. Maccabi Rishon		7-7
7. Hapoel Holon		5-9
8. Elitzur Netanya		5-10
9. Ironi Ashkelon		4-11
10. Maccabi Haifa		3-10

Premier League Round 15 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets.

Round 15 most important game was a victory of Bnei Hasharon over 3rd placed Maccabi Ashdod 81-78 on Sunday night. Bnei Hasharon has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Newly promoted Maccabi Ashdod dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Galil Gilboa. Bnei Hasharon are looking forward to face league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Maccabi Ashdod will play on the road against Maccabi Haifa and is hoping to win this game.
Premier League top team - Maccabi T-A (14-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat eighth ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-10) 85-71. It was a great evening for American guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) who led his team to a victory scoring 28 points, 5 assists and 4 steals (went 12 for 12 at the free throw line !!!). Lior Eliyahu helped adding 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The best for the losing side was American forward Romeo Travis (201-84, college: Akron) with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Maccabi T-A have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 14-1 record. Elitzur Netanya at the other side keeps the eighth position with ten games lost. Maccabi T-A will play against Bnei Hasharon (#3) in Hod Hasharon in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Elitzur Netanya will play at home against Galil Gilboa (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Ashkelon between Maccabi Rishon and Ironi Ashkelon. Sixth ranked Maccabi Rishon (7-7) got a very close victory on the road over 9th ranked Ironi Ashkelon (4-11). Maccabi Rishon managed to escape with a 1-point win 89-88 on Sunday evening. It was an exceptional evening for Dwayne Mitchell who led the winners and scored 19 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Desmon Farmer came up with 22 points for Ironi Ashkelon in the defeat. Maccabi Rishon maintains sixth place with 7-7 record. Loser Ironi Ashkelon keeps the ninth position with 11 games lost. Maccabi Rishon will meet at home league's second-placed Hapoel J-M in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ironi Ashkelon will play against Hapoel Holon (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 15 Hapoel Holon was beaten by Galil Gilboa on the road 74-69. Hapoel J-M won against Maccabi Haifa on its own court 95-90.

Ironi Ashkelon - Maccabi Rishon 88-89

A very close game took place in Ashkelon between Maccabi Rishon and Ironi Ashkelon. Sixth ranked Maccabi Rishon (7-7) got a very close victory on the road over 9th ranked Ironi Ashkelon (4-11). Maccabi Rishon managed to escape with a 1-point win 89-88 on Sunday evening. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 24-16 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Maccabi Rishon looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Dwayne Mitchell (194-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) who led the winners and scored 19 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Nizan Hanochi (194-86) accounted for 22 points and 4 assists (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winning side. American guard Desmon Farmer (195-81, college: USC) came up with 22 points and the other American import guard Jonathan Gibson (183-88, college: N.Mexico St.) added 20 points respectively for Ironi Ashkelon in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Maccabi Rishon maintains sixth place with 7-7 record. Loser Ironi Ashkelon keeps the ninth position with 11 games lost. Maccabi Rishon will meet at home league's second-placed Hapoel J-M in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ironi Ashkelon will play against Hapoel Holon (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Maccabi Rishon: N.Hanochi 22+1reb+4ast, D.Mitchell 19+8reb+5ast, A.McGhee 19+6reb+1ast, Y.Orland 10+1reb+1ast, R.Morgan 9+2reb, I.Swann 5+4reb+6ast
Ironi Ashkelon: D.Farmer 22+2reb+3ast, J.Gibson 20+3reb+1ast, D.Hagag 15+4reb+3ast, T.Terrell 13+6reb+1ast, R.Turner 7+9reb+3ast, G.Porat 7+3reb+2ast

Galil Gilboa - Hapoel Holon 74-69

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked Galil Gilboa (8-7) beat at home 7th ranked Hapoel Holon (5-9) 74-69 on Sunday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 26-20. But Hapoel Holon won second period 17-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was an exceptional evening for international power forward Ido Kozikaro (203-78) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds. American forward Warren Carter (206-85, college: Illinois) accounted for 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. American guard Robert Hite (188-84, college: Miami (FL)) came up with 22 points and 4 steals and the other American import forward Rich Melzer (203-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal., agency: Court Side) added 17 points respectively for Hapoel Holon in the defeat. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Maccabi Ashdod. Hapoel Holon lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with nine games lost. Galil Gilboa will meet Elitzur Netanya (#8) on the road in the next round. Hapoel Holon will play against Maccabi Haifa and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Galil Gilboa: D.Yavzuri 21+2reb+1ast, W.Carter 16+7reb+1ast, I.Kozikaro 13+10reb+1ast, R.Green 9+5reb+2ast, G.Mekel 7+5reb+7ast, T.Wilkerson 4+7reb
Hapoel Holon: R.Hite 22+4reb+2ast, R.Melzer 17+4reb+1ast, K.Powell 14+4reb+1ast, A.Ben David 8+6reb+2ast, E.Campbell 4+7reb+1ast, N.Cohen 3+1reb+1ast

Hapoel J-M - Maccabi Haifa 95-90

Very expected game when 10th ranked Maccabi Haifa (3-10) lost to second ranked Hapoel J-M (10-5) in Jerusalem 90-95 on Sunday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 36-21 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Hapoel J-M shot the lights out from three sinking 16 long-distance shots on high 55.2 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. It was an exceptional evening for international guard Yogev Ohayon (189-87, agency: Interperformances) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 assists. American guard Dion Dowell (198-85, college: Houston) accounted for 18 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Hapoel J-M's coach Oded Katash used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. International forward Elishay Kadir (202-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) came up with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and naturalized American guard Sylven Landesberg (198-90, college: Virginia) added 21 points respectively for Maccabi Haifa in the defeat. Five Hapoel J-M and four Maccabi Haifa players scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for Hapoel J-M. They maintain second place with 10-5 record having four points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Haifa lost their third game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with ten games lost. Hapoel J-M will meet Maccabi Rishon (#6) in the next round. Maccabi Haifa will play against Hapoel Holon (#7) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Hapoel J-M: D.Dowell 18+5reb+1ast, W.Solomon 17+2reb+3ast, Y.Ohayon 16+2reb+11ast, M.Mizrahi 13+2reb, S.Clancy 12+6reb+5ast, J.Rich 10+1reb+2ast
Maccabi Haifa: S.Landesberg 21+4reb+2ast, E.Kadir 17+8reb+4ast, F.Robinson 16+2reb+2ast, M.Killingsworth 13+2reb+1ast, G.Jackson 8+3reb+7ast, A.Ben-Chimol 8+1ast

Maccabi Ashdod - Bnei Hasharon 78-81

Round 15 most important game was a victory of Bnei Hasharon over 3rd placed Maccabi Ashdod 81-78 on Sunday night. Bnei Hasharon has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Newly promoted Maccabi Ashdod dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. They share it with Galil Gilboa. Bnei Hasharon are looking forward to face league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Maccabi Ashdod will play on the road against Maccabi Haifa and is hoping to win this game.

Elitzur Netanya - Maccabi T-A 71-85

Premier League top team - Maccabi T-A (14-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat eighth ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-10) 85-71. It looked good early as Elitzur Netanya took an 8-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Maccabi T-A took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 14 points. Elitzur Netanya was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for American guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) who led his team to a victory scoring 28 points, 5 assists and 4 steals (went 12 for 12 at the free throw line !!!). International forward Lior Eliyahu (207-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) helped adding 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The best for the losing side was American forward Romeo Travis (201-84, college: Akron) with 19 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import swingman Tony Washam (198-82, college: St.Vincent) scored 15 points and 6 rebounds. Four Elitzur Netanya players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Maccabi T-A have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 14-1 record. Elitzur Netanya at the other side keeps the eighth position with ten games lost. Maccabi T-A will play against Bnei Hasharon (#3) in Hod Hasharon in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Elitzur Netanya will play at home against Galil Gilboa (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Maccabi T-A: D.Perkins 28+4reb+5ast, S.Schortsanitis 17+5reb, L.Eliyahu 13+6reb+5ast, J.Pargo 8+2reb+4ast, G.Pnini 6+2reb+2ast, C.Eidson 5+6reb+3ast
Elitzur Netanya: R.Travis 19+9reb, T.Washam 15+6reb+1ast, E.Brown 10+7reb+2ast, A.Banks 10+1reb+3ast, C.Watson 7+3reb, E.Gueta 3+1reb

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ITALY

Pepsi Caserta record second straight win in EuroCup Last 16 - by Eurobasket News
Nymburk - Pepsi Caserta 68:74

Pepsi Caserta continued their winning streak in Europe. They posted the second win in a row in EuroCup Last 16 round. Pepsi Caserta stay at 2-0 record, while Nymburk slipped at 0-2 in Group K. Eric Williams (206-C-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest) paced the winners with 18 points.
Nymburk got to the better start. Led by Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington) the Czech champions posted an 18:13 lead after ten minutes. But Pepsi Caserta improved their offense in the second quarter. The Italian team unleashed 28 points in the quarter and knotted things up at 41 at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout the third stanza. Pepsi Caserta proved more accurate as they eked out a 58:56 lead into the final stanza. Pepsi Caserta came up with nearly perfect defensive performance in the fourth term. They held the hosts to 12 points and rolled to the victory at the end. Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) nailed 15 points, while Timothy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) added 13 points in the winning case. Chester Simmons responded with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for Nymburk. Pavel Pumprla (196-G-86) added 14 points in the loss.

Nymburk: Chester Simmons 21, Pavel Pumprla 14
Pepsi Caserta: Eric Williams 18, Ebi Ere 15, Timothy Bowers 13

stats leader

Points Per Game

Davide REATI
  Treviglio
  (193-G-88)
  Avg: 18.1

1. Reati, Treviglio	18.1
2. Vico, Matera	17.9
3. Evangelisti, Trapani	17.7
4. Ricciardi, Palestrina	17.4
5. Masper, Moncalieri	16.4
6. Rugolo, Molfetta	16.4
7. Tassinari, Moncalieri	16.4
8. Casadei, Comsum.i.	16.2
9. Becerra, Rieti	16.1
10. Musso, Perugia	15.9

Rebounds Per Game

Simone BAGNOLI
  Potenza
  (206-F/C-81)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Bagnoli, Potenza	10.3
2. Corral, Molfetta	9.8
3. Zambon, Rieti	9.6
4. Rosignoli, Bisceglie	9.3
5. Basei, Ostuni	9.2
6. Zerini, Ruvo	9.2
7. Capitanelli, Pales.	9.0
8. Facenda, Senigallia	8.4
9. Chiaramello, Recanati	8.3
10. De Min, Treviglio	8.2

Assists Per Game

Simone FERRARESE
  Trento
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Ferrarese, Trento	4.8
2. Marino, Treviglio	4.8
3. Virgilio, Rieti	3.9
4. Marcante, ASD P.	3.7
5. Gnaccarini, Senig.	3.6
6. Tomasiello, Comsum.	3.6
7. Lenardon, Massafra	3.3
8. Bushati, Brescia	3.2
9. Parente, Moncalieri	3.2
10. Bolzonella, Piacenza	3.1

Steals Per Game

Francesco GUARINO
  Trapani
  (182-G-79)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Guarino, Trapani	3.6
2. Gullo, Patti	3.2
3. Marcante, ASD P.	3.2
4. Bonamente, Perugia	3.1
5. Bushati, Brescia	3.1
6. De Nicolao, Castelle.	2.9
7. Pozzi, Molfetta	2.9
8. Malamov, Ruvo	2.9
9. Casadei, Comsum.i.	2.8
10. Valentini, S.Antimo	2.8

Blocks Per Game

Andrea ZERINI
  Ruvo
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Zerini, Ruvo	1.9
2. Ancellotti, Patti	1.5
3. Corral, Molfetta	1.3
4. Capitanelli, Pales.	1.2
5. Candido, Ferentino	1.1
6. Biligha, ASD Pavia	1.1
7. Pozzi, Molfetta	1.0
8. Raminelli, Castelle.	1.0
9. Basei, Ostuni	1.0
10. Spippoli, Palestrina	0.8

Cajasol stay perfect in EuroCup Last 16 - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol - Benetton 66:55

Cajasol recorded the second straight win in EuroCup Last 16 round. They defeated Benetton for 2-0 record in Group L. Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) nailed 22 points and collected 11 rebounds to lead the charge. Benetton in the meantime suffered the first defeat at the tournament this season.
Cajasol took over early in the encounter. They tried to stay in charge and posted a 21:18 lead after ten minutes. Benetton however stiffened their defense in the second term and it paid off. The Spanish team managed just 10 points and led by a single point at halftime 31:30. Cajasol however tuned back into this one after the main break. Mindaugas Katelynas (205-F-83, college: Chattanooga) and Louis Bullock (185-G-76, college: Michigan) paced the hosts as they arrived at the final intermission up by 4 points. Benetton failed to answer adequately in the final period. The visitors scored only 9 points in ten minutes and had to surrender at the end. Mindaugas Katelynas and Louis Bullock provided 11 points each for the Seville team. Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) and Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia) finished with 8 points each for Benetton. Ryan Toolson (193-G-85, college: Utah Valley St.), Donatas Motiejunas (213-C-90, agency: Interperformances) and Stefan Markovic (194-G-88) netted 7 points in defeat.

Cajasol: Paul Davis 22+11 boards, Mindaugas Katelynas 11, Louis Bullock 11
Benetton: Hrvoje Peric 8, Devin Smith 8

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LATVIA

Standings - LBAL

LBL D2 Standings

1. Jurmala		11-2
2. Ventspils Aug.		11-3
3. Ogre		10-2
4. Saldus		9-4
5. Zemgale/Jun.		8-5
6. Gulbene		8-6
7. Daugava		6-7
8. BAA Riga		6-7
9. Liepaja-2		5-8
10. Ridzene		2-11
11. Livani		1-11
12. VEF Kadeti		1-12

Norrkoping Dolphins needed a narrow win over BK Ventspils to tie both records - by Eurobasket News
Norrkoping Dolphins-BK Ventspils 77:75

Norrkoping Dolphins needed 77:75 narrow win over BK Ventspils to tie both records at 1-1 in Group K of EuroChallenge. The Swedish side grabbed the valuable win in the Last 16 stage to remain alive for the next round.
The guests looked a bit more accurate in the first minutes and grabbed 23:22 lead after the first 10 minutes. Kuzminskas made it 24:22 and Andrew Mitchell (181-G-79, college: Kent St.) tied the game in the start of the second frame. Andrew Mitchell also closed the period at 46:41 as the hosts won the quarter 24-18. Arturs Berzins (204-C-88, agency: FCM) and Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) shocked the hosts from the perimeter for 49:46 as BK Ventspils opened the third period with 8-0 run. Janis Strelnieks also was the last to score in the frame but Norrkoping Dolphins enjoyed 61:56 after three quarters. The home side tried to continue to maintain their advantage throughout the remainder of the game but the Baltic side were too late to give up. At first Ingus Bankevics (195-G/F-85, agency: Alti Sport) gave them 66:65 lead and then he brought 75:73 on the board. Andrew Mitchell and Fred Drains (195-F-71, college: Kean) however delivered the win for the home side.
Andrew Mitchell paced all the winners with 21 points and Fred Drains added 14. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79, college: N.Arizona) scored 11, while Anton Saks (200-G-89) and Povilas Sakinis (199-F-80) added 8 apiece. Janis Strelnieks ended up with 14 points in the losing effort, while Anderson, Ingus Bankevics, Lauris Blaus (204-C-90, agency: FCM) and Arturs Berzins scored 10 each.

Norrkoping Dolphins: Andrew Mitchell 21, Fred Drains 14, Joakim Kjellbom 11, Anton Saks 8, Povilas Sakinis 8
BK Ventspils: Janis Strelnieks 14, Anderson 10, Ingus Bankevics 10, Lauris Blaus 10, Arturs Berzins 10

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LITHUANIA

Become a volunteer at EuroBasket 2011! - by Simas Baranauskas
Do you love basketball? Would you love to see EuroBasket 2011 in Lithuania from up close and witness history as it is being made by Europes greatest basketball players? All of that is within a hands reach, as all you need to do is to register to become a volunteer for the biggest ever sports event to be held in Lithuania.

The estimated number of volunteers is around 2000 and you can be one of them. Everyone, willing to become a volunteer at EuroBasket 2011, has to fill out a form, available at http://www.eurodesk.lt from January 25 until March 25, 2011. A special commission will approve the best of the applicants, which will be chosen to help out in the tournament.

* First Round cities (Alytus, Siauliai, Panevezys, Klaipeda) will require about 250 volunteers each;
* The Second Round in Vilnius will require about 350 volunteers;
* The Final Round in Kaunas will require about 450 volunteers.

If you have any questions about volunteering at EuroBasket 2011, you can the basic information on http://www.eurodesk.com and if you need further information feel free to contact Ignas Dirma, the LOC Volunteer manager at i.dirma@eurobasket2011.com.

Courtesy of LithuaniaBasketball.com

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LUXEMBOURG

1//2 Final Draw - Cup of Luxembourg - by John Thomas
January 22, 2011
The 1/2 Finals matchups of the Cup of Luxembourg were drawn last Saturday in Bettembourg just before the National 2 match BBC Nitia vs Heffingen. Amicale and Basket Esch must play tomorrow night (Wednesday, January 26th. The winner of that game will face off with T71. National ll representative Heffingen will play Etzella. T71-Amicale/Basket Esch will be on Saturday, February 12th and Etzella-Heffingen (+10) will be on Sunday, February 13th. Games will be held at 'The Coque' in Kirchberg.

Luxembourg Diekirch League round 16 best performance: Lamonte Ulmer - by Eurobasket News
American forward Lamonte Ulmer (198-F-86, agency: Impact Basketball) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Soleuvre, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 16.
The 24-year old player had a double-double of 38 points and 16 rebounds, while his team Soleuvre maintains the 9th position in Luxembourg Diekirch League. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 12 games and recorded just four victories. In the team's last game Ulmer had a remarkable 72.2% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Soleuvre and just after two games he already turned to be a very valuable addition to the team. Lamonte Ulmer averages just after two games 30.0ppg and 14.0rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Brandon Gary (202-F-83) of Contern. Gary had a very good evening with a double-double of 38 points and 15 rebounds. It was enough for Contern to edge the higher-ranked Amicale (#4, 10-6) 70-69. Contern's 8th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-10 record. Gary is one of the most experienced players at Contern and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.1ppg (#7). He also registered 12.8 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Dustin Scott (203-F/C-85) of league's second-best Etzella Ettelbruck. Scott showcased his all-around game by recording 23 points, fourteen rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of Etzella, leading his team to a 84-82 win against the lower-ranked Soleuvre (#9, 4-12). Etzella needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 12 victories and 5 lost games. Scott has a great season in Luxembourg. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 10.7rpg (8th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Trenton Wurtz (203-F-83) of Musel Pikes - 20 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Larrie Smith (197-F-75) of Sparta - 26 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Marcus Kennedy (193-F-84) of Residence - 29 points and 11 rebounds
7. Denell Stephens (192-G-86) of T71 - 18 points and 13 rebounds
8. Billy McDaniel (201-F/C-84) of Black Star - 32 points and 8 rebounds
9. Nelson Delgado (186-G/F-80) of Etzella - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Laurent Schwartz (177-G-89) of Musel Pikes - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 6 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)

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MALDIVES

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. DSC		0-0
2. Hurricane BC		0-0
3. R.L.C		0-0
4. T-REX		0-0

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

MALTA

Athleta retain Detur Super Cup - by Eurobasket News
Siggiewi Derby 50
Athleta A-Z Electronics 62
(6-13, 15-12, 19-16, 10-21)

Athleta A to Z Electronics excellent season continued yesterday when they retained the Detur Super Cup following a 62-50 win over Siggiewi in the final.

Joe Galeas men, who had had the better of Siggiewi in the Detur Shield final in November, enjoyed a slight edge in the opening two quarters which were characterised by inaccurate shooting from both teams.

Athleta ended the first quarter 13-6 ahead but Siggiewi, inspired by Marko Matijevic (200-F-78) and Adrian Micallef, rallied in the second to narrow the gap to just four points, 25-21.

A balanced third quarter was shaded by Siggiewi who started the final 10 minutes only one point in arrears, 41-40.

Siggiewis improved performance in the third session raised the prospect of a thrilling climax. Peter Farrugias team went four points ahead early in the last session only to fade thereafter.

Athleta profited from their opponents shooting woes as they staged a stirring fightback to win the game 62-50, thus maintaining their unbeaten run in all competitions this season.

Siggiewis Marko Matijevic was the games top scorer with 18 points while Steve Schembri (187-F-79) was Athletas leading contributor with 17 points.

Siggiewi: P. Shoults 4, K. Borg, J. Doughty, E. Xuereb 2, A. Borg 5, A. Micallef 16, L. Ross 5, J. Jetsen, Marko Matijevic 18.

Athleta: M. Naudi 16, J. Zammit, C. Galea, E. Bezzina, D. Schembri 3, O. Said 9, C. Calleja, A. Bonnici 9, K. Baldacchino 8, A. Ryan, S. Schembri 17.

Referees: J.P. Sammut, A. Carbonaro, C. Terribile.
Courtesy of: http://www.timesofmalta.com

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MEXICO

LNBP semis - by Harold Valenzuela
The LNBP semis starts next thrusday win the series between Fuerza Regia Monterrey vs Pioneros de Cancun, and in the other semifinal Toros Nuevo Laredo is waiting the winner of Halcones Rojos de Veracruz vs Halcones UV Xalapa, this serie is tie at 1 a piece, Halcones UV Xalapa/Halcones Rojos de Veracruz serie is playing until now because the American tournament, but Fuerza Regia Monterrey and Pioneros de Cancun are ready to begin the first semis in cancun this thrusday.

Fuerza Regia Monterrey add Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) for this series, they need a true scorer and bimbo is that player. This series will be much disputed and can go the final game to decided who advanced to the Final.

It seems that the champion of the LNBP will be the winner of this serie.

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MOROCCO

D1 Round 8: Sale solid leader - by Marek Krala
AS Sal became solid leader of the national first division , thanks to his victory on the outside before the Fath US de Rabat (86-99) and the defeat of his former co-leader, Chabab Rif Al Hoceima on the ground Wydad Casablanca (77-75).Abdelhakim Zouita (201-F-86) added 22 points 16 rebounds and 4 steals for the winner and Karim Nesba (188-G-86, agency: Promotex, college: Auburn-Montgomery) the new addition guard of Al-Hoceima did a great game on playing almost the all game.For his second game on the Moroccan league he scored 14 points and 5 assists.

The Slaoui, who have one game in hand, totaled 14 points after winning all their games and will further widen the gap next Wednesday's game late in the 5th day, against Sports Plaza.

Second place is now occupied, to a point behind leaders by Wydad Casablanca (13 pts), followed by Raja, winner at home to the Maghreb Fes (85 - 75) and Shabab Al Hoceima, which have the same number points.

This day marked the first win of the season Amal Essaouira, home to Ittihad Tanger (70-68).

By this success, the representatives of the City Trade winds up leaving the red lantern, now occupied by the club from the city of Detroit.

Results:

Amal Essaouira - Ittihad Tanger 70 - 68.

Wydad Casablanca - Chabab Rif Al Hoceima 77 - 75.

Raja Casablanca - Moghreb Fs 85 - 75.

Renaissance Berkane - Sport Plaza 72 - 66.

Fath US de Rabat - ASS Sal 86 - 99.

Promotion to the center of meetings between officials and FRMBB FFBB - by Marek Krala
Promoting the National Basketball has been the focus of meetings between officials of the Moroccan Royal Federation of Basketball (FRMBB) and Vice-President of the French Federation of Basketball (FFBB), Jean Marc Janot during the latter's visit to Morocco (21-24 January).

During this visit, which is part of the cooperation between the Moroccan and French federation, M. Janot met with President FRMBB, Mr. Mohamed Dini as well as members of commissions federation including the national teams.

Among the objectives are FRMBB including increasing the number of licensees, the extension of Basketball and the signing of partnership agreements with local communities and the establishment of a training program at regional and national The promotion of women's basketball, and the organization of training sessions for the benefit of coaches.

In addition, the Vice President FFBB attended Saturday's meeting that the opposite at FUS AS Sal (86-99) at Rabat, as part of the 8th day of the first division national championship basketball .

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NAIA

Gold Rush line up to beat Mobile, improve to 19- - by Emiliano
Jeremy Lee (6'6''-F), scoring in double figures for the first time in 10 games, had a career-high-tying 15 points Monday to help NAIA No. 11 Xavier (LA) defeat Mobile (AL) 69-63 in a game filled with fouls and free throws.
The victory was the fifth in a row for Xavier (19-2) and its 17th straight at The Barn. The Gold Rush have Louisiana's longest current win streak in men's basketball.
Anthony Simmons added 13 points for Xavier, which took the lead for good in the fourth minute and led 36-26 at halftime. Lee scored 11 points and Simmons eight in the first half.
Donte Walker scored 22 points, 18 in the second half, and Matthew Turner had 13 for Mobile (AL) (9-9).
There were 63 personal fouls called, 33 on Xavier. Mobile (AL) made 31-of-43 free throws Walker was 15-of-16 and Xavier made 26-of-38. Both teams shot 26 free throws in the second half.
The Gold Rush outshot the Rams 54.1 to 33.3 percent from the floor. It was the third time in four games and the 11th time this season that Xavier shot 50 percent or better.
Mobile (AL), down 55-42 with 10:35 remaining, closed to 63-60 on Brock Dockery's basket with 1:10 to play. But Xavier sealed the victory by making 6-of-11 free throws thereafter.
Xavier exceeded its victory total of last season, when the Gold Rush were 18-13. This is the first Gold Rush team to start 19-2 since 2003-04. Including a 4-1 finish last season, Xavier has won 23 of its last 26 games.
Xavier will travel to city rival SUNO for a 7 p.m. Gulf Coast Athletic Conference game on Saturday.

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NBA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28.1

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	28.1
2. Stoudemire, New Y.	26.1
3. James, Miami Heat	25.9
4. Ellis, Golde S.	25.8
5. Wade, Miami Heat	25.1
6. Bryant, LA Lakers	25.0
7. Rose, Chicago B.	24.6
8. Gordon, LA Clippers	24.1
9. Anthony, Denver N.	23.8
10. Martin, Houston R.	23.5

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.6

1. Love, Minnesota T.	15.6
2. Howard, Orlando M.	13.3
3. Randolph, Memph.	13.1
4. Griffin, LA Clipp.	12.9
5. Noah, Chicago B.	11.7
6. Bogut, Milwauke.	11.6
7. Camby, Portland TB	11.3
8. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.6
9. Okafor, N.Orlean.	10.4
10. Boozer, Chicago B.	10.0

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 13

1. Rondo, Boston C.	13.0
2. Nash, Phoenix Suns	10.9
3. Paul, N.Orleans H.	9.6
4. Williams, Utah Jazz	9.5
5. Wall, Washington W.	9.2
6. Felton, New Y.	8.9
7. Calderon, Toron.	8.4
8. Westbrook, Oklah..	8.4
9. Kidd, Dallas M.	8.4
10. Rose, Chicago B.	8.1

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Paul, N.Orleans H.	2.7
2. Ellis, Golde S.	2.3
3. Rondo, Boston C.	2.3
4. Evans, Sacramen.	1.9
5. Felton, New Y.	1.9
6. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.9
7. Curry, Golde S.	1.9
8. Wall, Washington W.	1.8
9. Brewer, Minnesot.	1.8
10. Ginobili, San A.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.7
2. McGee, Washingt.	2.6
3. Milicic, Minnesota T.	2.4
4. Stoudemire, New Y.	2.3
5. Howard, Orlando M.	2.2
6. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.1
7. Duncan, San A.	2.0
8. Camby, Portland TB	1.9
9. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
10. Gasol, LA Lakers	1.9

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Boston C.		33-10
2. New York K.		23-21
3. Philadelph.76		19-25
4. Toronto R.		13-32
5. New Jersey N.		13-32
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		31-14
2. Detroit P.		17-28
3. Indiana P.		16-25
4. Milwaukee B.		16-26
5. Cleveland C.		8-36
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		31-13
2. Atlanta H.		29-16
3. Orlando M.		29-16
4. Charlotte B.		17-25
5. Washington W.		13-30
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		28-16
2. Utah Jazz		27-17
3. Denver N.		25-18
4. Portland TB		25-21
5. Minnesota T.		10-34
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		32-13
2. Phoenix Suns		20-23
3. Golde State W.		19-25
4. LA Clippers		17-26
5. Sacramento K.		10-32
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		38-7
2. N.Orleans H.		30-16
3. Dallas M.		28-15
4. Memphis G.		22-23
5. Houston R.		21-25

Monday's games (10) review - by Eurobasket News
Portland TB - Sacramento K. 81-96
Tyreke Evans (6'6''-G-89, college: Memphis) scored 26 points and the Sacramento Kings earned a 96-81 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night. Evans was one of five Kings to score in double figures as Sacramento (10-32) won its fourth road game of the season. Evans, who shot 9 of 16, had six rebounds and six assists. The loss ended a five-game winning streak for Portland (25-21). Carl Landry (6'7''-F-83, college: Purdue) had 16 points and eight rebounds for Sacramento. Beno Udrih and DeMarcus Cousins scored 14 points each. Omri Casspi scored 12 points, all in the second half. Wesley Matthews led Portland with 21 points. Andre Miller added 18 points for the Blazers. Sacramento held Portland's LaMarcus Aldridge to nine points, ending a streak of 25 consecutive double-digit scoring games for the Blazers' forward. *Courtesy of www.kolotv.com

Golde State W. - San Antonio S. 102-113
Manu Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) had 20 points and seven assists, and the San Antonio Spurs endured Tim Duncan's brief injury scare before beating the Golden State Warriors 113-102 on Monday night. Duncan went down with a left knee injury in the second quarter that had the entire Spurs bench stunned and shaken. He returned to finish with 16 points and seven rebounds, helping San Antonio rebound from a loss to New Orleans and calm any nerves about what initially appeared to be a serious fall. Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) added 18 points and 11 assists, Antonio McDyess had 14 points and 10 rebounds and the NBA-best Spurs (38-7) cruised to an otherwise stress-free victory. *Courtesy of www.desertnews.com

N.Orleans H. - Oklah.City T. 91-89
Chris Paul (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) made a critical steal with just more than 10 seconds left, David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) swished a 17-foot fadeaway with 0.5 on the clock and the New Orleans Hornets pulled out their ninth straight victory, 91-89 over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night. Paul finished with 24 points, nine assists and three steals. West had 20 points for New Orleans, which overcame a 15-point first-half hole and then held Oklahoma City to one basket during the final 4:19. Kevin Durant scored 22 points for the Thunder but missed all five of his shots in the fourth quarter, including several in the final minutes as the Hornets erased a late four-point deficit with a couple of jumpers by West, who hit New Orleans' final four baskets on jumpers of 16 feet or more. Emeka Okafor added 11 points and nine rebounds for the Hornets (30-16), who opened the season with an eight-game winning streak. Now, they have their longest winning streak of the season and the longest active streak in the NBA. The victory also moved the Hornets ahead of Oklahoma City and Dallas in the standings and all the way up to third in the Western Conference. *Courtesy of www.coco.com

Chicago B. - Milwaukee B. 92-83
Kurt Thomas (6'9''-F-72, college: TCU) scored 22 points and Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) added 21 points and 10 assists to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 92-83 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday night. Thomas scored his most points since Jan. 25, 2005. He also had nine rebounds and five assists in the win. Chris Douglas-Roberts scored a season-high 30 points, one shy of his career high, for the Bucks. Andrew Bogut had eight points and 18 rebounds and Ersan Ilyasova added 17 points. *Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

Minnesota T. - Houston R. 125-129
Scorers such as Kevin Martin (6'7''-G/F-83, college: W.Carolina) dream about nights against a 'defense' like the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Wolves have a hard enough time guarding spot-up shooters on the perimeter. When they're facing a guy who can blow by them on the way to the rim and also get a 3-pointer off in the blink of an eye, they don't stand a chance. Martin scored 34 points and Shane Battier (6'8''-F-78, college: Duke) added a season-high 19 to lead the Houston Rockets to a 129-125 victory over the Timberwolves on Monday night. 'We made it interesting, that's what we do as a team,' said Martin, who topped 30 points for the third time in five games. 'There's no easy win for us, ever. We fought with it, stayed with it, fought through a rough stretch and came out with a win.' Luis Scola added 20 points and 12 rebounds for the Rockets, who beat a Western Conference team for the first time in their last eight tries. Houston's 13 straight wins over Minnesota tie the franchise record for longest winning streak against one opponent. Kevin Love had 24 points, 17 rebounds and seven assists and Wes Johnson added 19 points for the Timberwolves, who lost their fourth straight overall. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Orlando M. - Detroit P. 96-103
Tracy McGrady (6'8''-G/F-79), Tayshaun Prince (6'9''-F-80, college: Kentucky) and Austin Daye each scored 20 points to help the Detroit Pistons to a 103-96 victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday night. The Pistons scored 26 points off 16 Orlando turnovers and shot 50 percent from 3-point range to earn their first victory of the season over the Magic. Rodney Stuckey and Ben Gordon added 16 points apiece for Detroit. Orlando got 21 points off the bench from Ryan Anderson and 20 points and 16 rebounds from Dwight Howard. But the Magic shot poorly from beyond the arc, connecting on just seven of 27 attempts. *Courtesy of www.cfnews13.com

Philadelph.76 - Phoenix Suns 105-95
Thaddeus Young (6'8''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech) scored 24 points, Elton Brand (6'8''-F-79, college: Duke) had 22 points and nine rebounds and the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Phoenix Suns 105-95 on Monday night. Evan Turner and Lou Williams each scored 14 points for a Sixers team that was hot from the beginning. The Sixers shot nearly 60 percent for most of the game and built a 22-point lead in the third quarter. The Sixers won their 14th home game, two more than last season. Coach Doug Collins and the rest of the team are openly talking about catching New York for the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. More nights like this one and they might get there. Brand scored nine points in the third quarter as the Sixers started to pull away as part of an energetic effort. Jared Dudley led the Suns with 23 points, and Steve Nash had 17 points and nine assists. *Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

Toronto R. - Memphis G. 98-100
Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) hit a tiebreaking jump shot with less than a second to play, Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) had 17 points and 12 rebounds and the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Toronto Raptors 100-98 on Monday night. Gay scored 21 points, Marc Gasol had 17, O.J. Mayo had 15 and Mike Conley 13 for the Grizzlies, who won their third straight, a season high. Andrea Bargnani scored 29 points and DeMar DeRozan had 25 for the Raptors, whose season-high losing streak reached eight games. The Raptors have dropped five in a row to the Grizzlies. Toronto's losing streak is its longest since a 10-game slide from March 26 to April 12, 2006. Jerryd Bayless had 15 points and set career highs with 11 assists and eight rebounds for the short-handed Raptors. Julian Wright had 11 points and nine rebounds and Amir Johnson added 10 points. Randolph extended his team-record streak of double-doubles to 11 games. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

New York K. - Washington W. 115-106
Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) scored 30 points and the New York Knicks pulled away in the closing stages to end a six-game losing steak with a 115-106 victory over the Washington Wizards today. With the game tied at 95-95 in the fourth, New York scored six straight points then quickly pushed their lead to 11 on jump shots from Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) and Wilson Chandler. Chandler finished with 25 points while Knicks point guard Raymond Felton had 17 and 15 assists to keep Washington winless on the road this season at 0-21. Nick Young led the Wizards with 22 points and 2010 number one draft pick John Wall put up 18 points, nine assists and seven rebounds in the defeat. *Courtesy of www.tvnz.co.nz

New Jersey N. - Cleveland C. 103-101
Brook Lopez (7'0''-F/C-88, college: Stanford) had a hard time remembering his last game-winning shot. ''I don't know, it might have been Stanford - but it feels good,'' the New Jersey Nets center said. ''We ran the play exactly the way we wanted to.'' Lopez scored the tiebreaking basket on a turnaround jumper from 6 feet out with 1.4 seconds remaining and the Nets beat Cleveland 103-101 on Monday night, handing the Cavaliers their 17th straight defeat. Lopez led the Nets with 28 points and Anthony Morrow scored 16 off the bench. Cleveland's losing streak is its longest since dropping 19 in a row to close the 1981-82 season. The Cavaliers have lost 21 straight road games, matching the team record set from Jan. 13 to April 14, 2003. Their last road win came in New Jersey on Nov. 9. ''It's tough to take the loss because I thought our guys played hard enough to get the win,'' Cleveland coach Byron Scott said. ''We have to keep playing hard and applying all the things we talked about at both ends of the floor. We have to know it's going to work out for us, we're going to have a breakout game. Right now we're losing some of these battles but in the long run we'll hopefully win the war.'' The final basket by Lopez capped a back-and-forth battle down the stretch between two last-place teams. The Nets have won three of four since owner Mikhail Prokhorov ended trade talks to acquire Carmelo Anthony from Denver. Devin Harris (6'3''-G-83, college: Wisconsin) had 14 points and 10 assists for New Jersey while Jordan Farmar and Kris Humphries each scored 11. Humphries led the Nets with 11 rebounds. Antawn Jamison scored 26 points to pace the Cavaliers. Daniel Gibson had 19 and Ramon Sessions added 16. Cleveland also got 14 points from Joey Graham and 12 from J.J. Hickson. *Courtesy of www.comcast.com

Predrag Stojakovic officially signs with Mavs - by Eurobasket News
The NBA formally approved the Alexis Ajinca trade to the Toronto Raptors Monday afternoon, which allowed the Dallas Mavericks to quickly sign forward Predrag Stojakovic (6'10''-F-77).

Mavs president Donnie Nelson confirmed that Stojakovic, released by the Raptors on Thursday, has been signed.

Owner Mark Cuban welcomed Stojakovic to the team via his Twitter account: 'Peja is now a Mav ! Time to let him drop some of those 3s on the bad guys.'

Dallas sends Ajinca to Toronto and will pay the remainder of his $1.5 million salary for the season and return a future second-round pick that Toronto had sent Dallas during the 2010 draft last June, as well as cash considerations. In return, Dallas would receive the rights to 2007 second-round pick Georgios Printezis (who plays in Spain and is no longer considered an NBA prospect) and create a trade exception equal to Ajinca's $1.5 millon salary along with the open roster spot needed to sign Stojakovic.

The trade appeared to be a done deal Thursday night when the Mavs played at Chicago. Ajinca was even sent from the United Center back to the team hotel. However, the process became delayed when some teams lodged complaints that the Mavs and Raptors arranged the deal to circumvent the salary cap.

Stojakovic will take a physical to officially join the team. After Monday's practice, coach Rick Carlisle said Stojakovic will not play Tuesday night when the Mavs open a four-game homestand against the Los Angeles Clippers, and possibly would not be ready for Thursday's game against Houston.

Stojakovic has been bothered by a knee issue and has played just eight games this season for the New Orleans Hornets and Raptors. He hasn't played in a game since Nov. 26.

'He's coming off a situation where he's missed some time due to a minor knee injury,' Carlisle said. 'There's going to be a period where we have to make sure his conditioning and health is right before we put him on the floor. I don't know what that period of time is going to be, but I think it's important to understand that this is not just simply a turn-key thing and now you've got a starter.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Mavericks Trade Alexis Ajinca; Acquire Rights To Georgios Printezis - by Matthew Man
The Dallas Mavericks anounced today that they have traded center Alexis Ajinca (7'1''-C-88), a second round draft pick and cash considerations to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for the draft rights to forward Georgios Printezis.

Ajinca (7-0, 248) played in 10 games with two starts for Dallas this season. He averaged 2.9 points, 1.7 rebounds and 7.5 minutes per game as a Maverick. Ajinca was originally acquired via trade from Charlotte on July 13, 2010.

Printezis (6-9, 230) was the 58th pick of the 2007 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs before Toronto acquired his rights from San Antonio for a future second round pick. Printezis is a native of Athens, Greece and plays professionally in Spain.

The Mavericks roster currently stands at 14 players.

Bucks sign Garrett Temple to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The Milwaukee Bucks have signed guard Garrett Temple (6'6''-G-86, college: LSU) to a 10-day contract, General Manager John Hammond announced today.

Temple, 24, has appeared in 30 NBA games (four starts) in stints with San Antonio, Houston and Sacramento over the last two seasons with career averages of 4.6 points and 1.1 rebounds in 11.8 minutes. He appeared in three games earlier this season with San Antonio.

Undrafted out of Louisiana State University, Temple has appeared in 48 games (41 stats) the last two seasons in the NBAs Development League (D-League) and averaged 14.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.2 steals while knocking down 37.5 percent of his 3-pointers. He has split the 2010-11 D-League season between Erie and Rio Grande Valley and averaged 13.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.0 steal and shot 38.7 percent from three in 18 games (11 starts).
The Bucks roster is now at 15 players.

Courtesy of www.sportando.net

Miami Heat's Chris Bosh could miss one or two weeks - by Eurobasket News
Heat forward Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) indicated Monday that he could be sidelined for an extended period of time due to his high ankle sprain.

Bosh injured his ankle more than a week ago when Omer Asik of the Chicago Bulls fell on his leg while diving for a loose ball. A week after the sprain, Bosh was still experiencing too much pain to run on a treadmill. On Monday, Bosh sat out another practice. Guard Eddie House also did not practice due to an ankle sprain.

Its quite boring to be me right now at work, Bosh said. Im still just trying to feel it out. Its a different situation. Ive never had a high ankle sprain. I dont really know how to gauge anything.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said Bosh isnt ready for anything full speed, or side-to-side or with contact. The coach also didnt refute questions that Bosh could be out one or two more weeks.

Its different than an ankle sprain when you sprain your ankle and land on somebodys foot, Spoelstra said. He had somebody land on his leg and it twisted it awkwardly, so its a little bit different than that. Those ankle sprains could take a lot longer, but there was some damage to it.

The Heat (31-13), which is 1-4 in its last five games, has played four consecutive games with at least one of its Big Three Bosh, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James out due to injury. The team travels to New York on Thursday for a game against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. If Bosh is unavailable, Spoelstra could use James again as a power forward. James scored 38 points at the position Saturday, a 120-103 victory against the Toronto Raptors.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Raptors sign Gaines to second 10-day deal - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors have signed guard Sundiata Gaines (6'1''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia) to a second 10-day contract.

He inked his original 10-day deal on January 13 and has since appeared in five games, averaging 5.8 points and 2.0 assists in 14 1/2 minutes per contest.

The 24-year-old appeared in eight games for Minnesota this season before being released on January 4. In his time with the Timberwolves, Gaines registered 21 points and six assists in 65 minutes of action.

In 45 career NBA contests, the University of Georgia product has posted per- game averages of 3.5 points and 1.2 assists in 7.9 minutes with the Raptors, Utah Jazz and Timberwolves.

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

Shaquille O'Neal expected to miss next two games - by Eurobasket News
Doc Rivers knew the O'Neal veterans - Shaquille and Jermaine - would miss time with injuries after the Celtics signed them to plug the hole left by another ailment.

Boston's coach just didn't think the two free agent centers would miss as much time as they have.

Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) sat out practice on Monday and will be sidelined for the second straight game with a sore right hip when the Celtics try to bounce back from a loss to the lowly Washington Wizards with a win Tuesday night against the team with the worst record in the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers.

'It's not a serious injury,' Rivers said, 'but he's also 38 years old and we're going to be very cautious.'

The Celtics start a four-game West Coast trip in Portland on Thursday night, and Rivers said he thinks O'Neal will play in at least one or two of those games.

Both O'Neals were signed in the offseason as free agents to fill in for Kendrick Perkins, who hurt his knee in Game 6 of the NBA finals and missed the Los Angeles Lakers title-clinching 83-79 win in Game 7. Perkins has targeted the game against the Dallas Mavericks on Feb. 4 for his return.

'He looks great,' Rivers said after Monday's practice. 'He went through the entire practice because we needed him.'

That's because the O'Neals didn't participate.

Shaquille has played on 33 of the Celtics' 43 games, averaging 9.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 21.3 minutes per game.

Jermaine, 32, has played in only 17 games with averages of 5.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 18 minutes. He sat out 19 games, then played in the next 10 before missing the last six with a knee injury. But he's out for four weeks, hoping rest and rehabilitation will get him back on the court.

Rivers said he didn't know when the team signed them how much they'd be able to play.

'We knew with Shaq and J.O., we would have injuries,' he said. 'The history told you that. We just didn't know it would be this amount right now, but we'll get through it.'

Despite their absence, the Celtics are 33-10, tops in the Eastern Conference. But for now, their healthy centers are rookie Semih Erden and Glen Davis, normally a forward. Davis has played all 43 games with nine starts and is averaging 30.8 minutes per game. He's played more than that in 11 of his last 16 games.

'I feel like I can be in better shape,' he said. 'I need to be a guy who's in shape for 48 minutes instead of 35. Those little minutes count.'

Davis prefers to come off the bench, and Erden did start Saturday night's game when Shaquille O'Neal was sidelined. The Celtics led by 16 in the first half, then began settling for outside shots, giving the Wizards a chance to come back. It didn't help the Celtics that they scored just 11 in the fourth quarter, a season-low for any period.

They missed 18 of 23 shots in that quarter.

'You get a lead and you kind of let your guard down. I thought that happened the other night and then you get the other team excited. Then it's tough to turn it back on,' Rivers said. 'It's been a terrific season so far, but in that terrific season we've had some bad losses, too, and I tell our guys that. Some of the teams that have beaten us are under .500 and those are tough losses for a team that shouldn't lose those games.'

They certainly shouldn't lose Tuesday night. But they've already lost to the Cavaliers, 95-87, in Cleveland. Despite the results, though, Rivers said the Celtics don't overlook weak opponents.

'If we do, then we'll lose,' he said. 'I don't think our team does that. I just think we come out and we assume wins and sometimes they don't happen. You have to go out and earn them.'

Swingman Marquis Daniels also missed practice Monday because of a family issue and has a 50-50 chance of playing Tuesday, Rivers said.

Ray Allen will have a chance to get closer to Reggie Miller's NBA record for 3-point field goals. Allen has made 2,537 in his 15-year career and needs 24 to pass Miller.

'He's such a pro. He prepares every night like it's the biggest game of the year,' Rivers said of Allen. 'He'll eventually get there. I hope he gets there in the next three or four games. That means he's had a hell of a roll.'

Courtesy of www.sportingnews.com

Howard, Aldridge earn NBA Player of the Week honors - by Eurobasket News
Orlando center Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85) and Portland forward LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-C-85, college: Texas) were named Eastern and Western Conference players of the week, respectively, for games played between January 17-23.

Howard posted averages of 26 points, 13.3 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in helping the Magic go 3-1 during the week. In three of those contests he compiled at least 20 points and 10 boards.

His best game came on Friday when he went for 31 points and 19 rebounds in a 112-72 demolishing of Toronto.

Aldridge was instrumental in the Trail Blazers garnering a 4-0 record during the period by averaging 28.3 points, 10.3 boards and 2.3 assists.

Aldridge registered a career-best 37 points to go with 12 rebounds in a 113-102 victory over Minnesota last Monday.

Other nominees for the weekly honors were Atlanta's Joe Johnson, Charlotte's D.J. Augustin, Denver's Carmelo Anthony, Los Angeles Clippers' Blake Griffin, and New Orleans' David West.

Courtesy of www.newsobserver.com

Gregg Popovich will be head coach of NBA 2011 West All-Star team - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich will coach the Western Conference All-Stars for the 2011 NBA All-Star Game, to be played on Sunday, Feb. 20, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

With San Antonios 113-102 win over the Golden State Warriors Monday, the Spurs (38-7, .844) have clinched the best record in the conference through games played Feb. 6.

This season, Popovich has guided the Spurs to the leagues best record, earning consecutive Western Conference Coach of the Month honors for games played in October/November and December. The Spurs have enjoyed double-digit winning streaks of 12 and 10 games this season.

In his 15th season as head coach, Popovich has led the Spurs to four NBA titles (1999, 2003, 2005 and 2007) and is one of only five coaches in NBA history to have guided his teams to at least four championships. Popovich entered the season with a career mark of 736-362 and a winning percentage of .670, which ranked fourth in NBA history. His playoff career winning percentage of .618 (102-63) is the eighth best in NBA annals, while his 106 playoff wins are the third most in league history.

Popovich coached the West team during the 2005 All-Star Game in Denver, which the East won 125-115.

The coach of the East All-Stars will be determined by the team with the best record in the conference through games played Feb. 6. The Orlando Magics Stan Van Gundy, who coached last years East squad, is not eligible to coach this years All-Star Game.

The 2011 NBA All-Star Game will air live on TNT and ESPN Radio in the U.S., and reach fans in more than 200 countries and territories in more than 40 languages.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

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PALESTINE

D1 Standing

D1 Standings

1. Abna' AlQuds		0-0
2. Ahli Qalqilya		0-0
3. AlAroob YC		0-0
4. AlBireh		0-0
5. AlSileh		0-0
6. Beita SC		0-0
7. Huwara		0-0
8. Jensafot		0-0
9. Orthodox BJ		0-0
10. RaI AlSaleh		0-0
11. Samaritan YC		0-0
12. Terrasanta		0-0
13. Thaqafi T.		0-0
14. Toubas		0-0

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PBL

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Quinnel BROWN
  Quebec K.
  (198-G/F-83)
  Avg: 20.8

1. Brown, Quebec K.	20.8
2. Williams, Vermo.	20.5
3. Crouch, Rocheste.	20.0
4. Jones, Kentucky S.	19.2
5. Anderson, Saint J.	18.6
6. Martin, Saint J.	17.8
7. Miles, Dayton A.	17.3
8. Grifin, Dayton A.	17.2
9. Mercer, Halifax R.	17.2
10. Egerson, Saint J.	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Eric CROOKSHANK
  Halifax R.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 11.5

1. Crookshank, Halif.	11.5
2. Jackson, Halifax R.	11.0
3. Williams, Vermo.	9.7
4. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC	9.3
5. Brown, Quebec K.	8.8
6. Jones, Halifax R.	8.8
7. Harris, Kentucky S.	8.0
8. DeMasi, Vermont FH	8.0
9. Ocitti, Saint J.	7.8
10. Dollard, Halifax R.	7.6

Assists Per Game

Dwuan RICE
  Vermont FH
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Rice, Vermont FH	7.5
2. Egerson, Saint J.	6.8
3. Parran, Quebec K.	5.7
4. Brown, Halifax R.	5.2
5. Anderson, Saint J.	5.0
6. Bowden, Lawton F.	4.5
7. Acker, Quebec K.	4.5
8. Daniels, Lawton F.	4.3
9. Brown, Quebec K.	4.3
10. Fountain, Lawton F.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Dwuan RICE
  Vermont FH
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 3

1. Rice, Vermont FH	3.0
2. Anderson, Saint J.	2.8
3. Parran, Quebec K.	2.8
4. Brown, Quebec K.	2.8
5. Perry, Dayton A.	2.0
6. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC	2.0
7. Gilchrese, Saint J.	1.8
8. Martin, Saint J.	1.8
9. Austin, Vermont FH	1.7
10. Miles, Dayton A.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Jared CARTER
  Rochester R.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Carter, Rocheste.	1.6
2. Stevenson, Rocheste.	1.6
3. Ocitti, Saint J.	1.5
4. Daniels, Lawton F.	1.3
5. Dollard, Halifax R.	1.2
6. George, Dayton A.	1.2
7. Delk, Kentucky S.	1.0
8. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC	1.0
9. Austin, Vermont FH	0.8
10. Farley, Rocheste.	0.8

Berry resigns as Rainmen head coach - by Eurobasket News
Three jobs was one too many for Les Berry .

The Halifax native resigned on Monday as head coach of the Halifax Rainmen, almost two years after taking the job, to focus on his off-court employment and a new career opportunity.

Berry has worked in sales with GBS Communications for the past three years while coaching the Rainmen, but recently added to that by starting the training process to become a station attendant with Air Canada.

If I could work it out where I could keep coaching the Rainmen, I would, but doing what Im doing outside of basketball, its really taken precedent for my (job) security, to make sure Im doing the right thing for my family, Berry said. I like the Rainmen, I would keep doing it, but I just cant continue to do them all.

Berry, a long-time university coach who resigned at Acadia after taking the Axemen to a national final in 2008, replaced the Rainmens first head coach, Rick Lewis, in February 2009.

He went 22-11 over parts of three seasons and guided the team to its first ever playoff appearance in 2010. He had a 3-1 record this season before staying home from the clubs most recent road trip.

Berry said it came to the point where continuing to coach the Rainmen would mean giving up one of his off-court opportunities, and he wasnt willing to do that. The insecurity of minor-league basketball was part of it.

As much as Id like to coach basketball, I just cant risk it, Berry said. Because you know, at any point, you could lose three games and be out, or two teams could fold, and you just never know.

Even owner Andre Levingston recognized there are no guarantees at this level.

We discussed it and we thought it would be best for everybody, Levingston said. I told him, I totally respect you have to do whats best for your family and I have to make sure that our organization is your No. 1 focus. So we just kind of came to a mutual agreement.

Levingston said Berry actually made the decision before the teams recent two-game road trip, but a decision was made not to tell the players or announce it until Monday.

We were going on an important road trip and didnt want things to be in disarray, Levingston said. We thought it would be the best way to handle it.

A new head coach will be named on Wednesday morning, and Levingston said he is finalizing things with someone he has his eyes on.

We always want to raise the bar and get better as an organization and were looking for someone who can come in and provide that, Levingston said.

Berry said the Rainmen have the player personnel to make a really good run at a championship this year, saying they can compete with the defending champion Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry.

If I could physically and mentally find a way to keep doing it, I would have tried, Berry said. But I always have to do whats best for my family, and at this stage, continuing to coach the Rainmen and passing up these other opportunities, is not what would be best for my family.

Courtesy of www.metronews.ca

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POLAND

Mujo Tuljkovic moves to Poznan - by Eurobasket News
Mujo Tuljkovic (203-F-79, agency: Beo Basket) found his new team. The 31-year-old forward has agreed on terms of contract with PBG Basket. The Bosnian forward spent the previous season in Poland. He played for Anwil Wloclawek. His stats read 10.7 points, 5.1 boards and 1.1 steal per game. Mujo Tuljkovic was named Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Bosman Player of the Year in 2010. Mujo Tuljkovic has a long history of playing in Poland. He had stints with Wisla Krakow, Anwil, Polonia, Turow, Polpak Swiecie, BPS Kwidzyn and Polpharma. The forward also played in Slovenia, Bosnia and Croatia. Mujo Tuljkovic is the member of Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team since 2002.

Zastal Zielona Gora adds two players - by Eurobasket News
Zastal Zielona Gora signed two new players for rest of the season. The Polish outfit brought in David Burgess (210-C-86, college: Azusa Pacific) and James Maye (201-G/F-81, college: NC-Greensboro).
David Burgess spent last season in Bulgaria as a member of Rilski Sportist Samokov. He played 26 games in domestic championship averaging 8.5 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1 assist. He also appeared nine times in Balkan League adding 9.3 ppg and 6.2 rpg. Burgess played for the Gonzaga University in the past.
James Maye started this season in Australia with the Gold Coast Blaze. He played two games for them registering 7.5 ppg and 3 rpg. The team released him in November because of injury. Maye is not a new face in Poland as he spent last season in PBG Basket Poznan. He shined with 15.3 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 1.6 apg for 8 games in PLK.

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

PUERTO RICO

Bayamon add Robert Traylor - by Eurobasket News
Vaqueros de Bayamon bolstered their frontcourt. They have agreed on terms of contract with Robert Traylor (204-F/C-77, college: Michigan). Bayamon tipped off their first training session prior to the start of the new season yesterday. Robert Traylor is actually returning to Bayamon. The 33-year-old centre played for the team last season. He averaged 9.9 points, 10.1 boards, 2.4 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.0 block per BSN game. Robert Traylor helped Bayamon reach BSN Finals. The centre was named into Latinbasket.com All-Puerto Rican BSN 2nd Team. This season Robert Traylor started in Mexico. He averages 12.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per LNBP game for Halcones Xalapa. The centre also notched 4.3 points, 6.0 boards and 1.7 blocks per Liga Americas appearance this season.

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

RUSSIA

Hapless Cedevita yield to Unics - by Eurobasket News
Cedevita - Unics 76:94

Unics taught a good basketball lesson to Cedevita in Croatia tonight. The Russian powerhouse led from start to finish to post the second straight win in EuroCup Last 16 round. They topped Group I, while Cedevita slipped at 0-2 record. Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) scored 22 points to lead the winners.
The game had little story in it. Unics grabbed the lead from the start and never surrendered it. The visitors led by three points after a high-flying first quarter 26:23. The teams traded baskets in the second term as Unics were able to post a 41:38 lead at halftime. Unics used a massive rally in the third term to clear off. The visitors arrived at the final intermission up by 19 points. Cedevita had little to answer with in the fourth period and suffered a heavy loss at the end.
Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) had 20 points, 6 assists and 5 boards for Unics. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) tallied 17 points and 8 rebounds in the victory. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) responded with 16 points and 6 assists for Cedevita. Vedran Vukusic (206-F-82, college: Northwestern) netted 13 points in the defeat.

Cedevita: Dontaye Draper 16, Vedran Vukusic 13
Unics: Kelly McCarty 22, Terrell Lyday 20, Maciej Lampe 17

Spartak Saint-Petersburg needed 7-0 run at the end to silence Lukoil - by Eurobasket News
Lukoil Academic-Spartak Saint-Petersburg 63:71

Spartak Saint-Petersburg became the only leader in Group I and the only undefeated team. The team from Russian Federation grabbed 71:63 win over Lukoil Academic in EuroChallenge.
The opening quarter saw both teams trading baskets and leads throughout the period. Popovic and Patrick Beverley (185-G-88, college: Arkansas) gave the guests a slender four-point advantage at the end of the first. The second quarter however completely belonged to the Bulgarian team that had 19-7 in it. Damjan Stojanovski (197-F-87) made a free throw for 35:25 and Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) closed the half at 35:27. Although Spartak won the third period 21-14, Damjan Stojanovski's last shot allowed the hosts to take 49:48 lead after three periods. He also nailed three to open the last frame but Henry Domercant tied the game at 55:55. Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) scored for 63:64 and as it became known later those points were the last for Lukoil. Spartak finished the game with 7-0 run for the second win in the group.
Henry Domercant stepped up with 23 points for the winners and Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86) added 21. Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) collected 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Patrick Beverley posted 9. Damjan Stojanovski replied with 16 points in the losing effort as Lukoil is 1-1 in the group. Brandon Heath netted 15, whilst Green scored 10.

Lukoil Academic: Damjan Stojanovski 16, Brandon Heath 15, Green 10

Spartak Saint-Petersburg: Henry Domercant 23, Anton Ponkrashov 21, Miha Zupan 11+10 rebs, Patrick Beverley 9

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

SERBIA

Predrag Stojakovic officially signs with Mavs - by Eurobasket News
The NBA formally approved the Alexis Ajinca trade to the Toronto Raptors Monday afternoon, which allowed the Dallas Mavericks to quickly sign forward Predrag Stojakovic (6'10''-F-77).

Mavs president Donnie Nelson confirmed that Stojakovic, released by the Raptors on Thursday, has been signed.

Owner Mark Cuban welcomed Stojakovic to the team via his Twitter account: 'Peja is now a Mav ! Time to let him drop some of those 3s on the bad guys.'

Dallas sends Ajinca to Toronto and will pay the remainder of his $1.5 million salary for the season and return a future second-round pick that Toronto had sent Dallas during the 2010 draft last June, as well as cash considerations. In return, Dallas would receive the rights to 2007 second-round pick Georgios Printezis (who plays in Spain and is no longer considered an NBA prospect) and create a trade exception equal to Ajinca's $1.5 millon salary along with the open roster spot needed to sign Stojakovic.

The trade appeared to be a done deal Thursday night when the Mavs played at Chicago. Ajinca was even sent from the United Center back to the team hotel. However, the process became delayed when some teams lodged complaints that the Mavs and Raptors arranged the deal to circumvent the salary cap.

Stojakovic will take a physical to officially join the team. After Monday's practice, coach Rick Carlisle said Stojakovic will not play Tuesday night when the Mavs open a four-game homestand against the Los Angeles Clippers, and possibly would not be ready for Thursday's game against Houston.

Stojakovic has been bothered by a knee issue and has played just eight games this season for the New Orleans Hornets and Raptors. He hasn't played in a game since Nov. 26.

'He's coming off a situation where he's missed some time due to a minor knee injury,' Carlisle said. 'There's going to be a period where we have to make sure his conditioning and health is right before we put him on the floor. I don't know what that period of time is going to be, but I think it's important to understand that this is not just simply a turn-key thing and now you've got a starter.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Stats Leaders - 1B

Points Per Game

Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 27

1. Bjelica, Viva Basket	27.0
2. Dukanac, Mladost .	20.6
3. Svilar, Smederevo	20.1
4. Trailovic, Sindje.	19.4
5. Radic, Spartak	18.5
6. Samailovic, Student	18.4
7. Ivosev, Vojvodina	17.4
8. Blagojevic, KG 06	17.3
9. Tesanovic, KK Nis	15.9
10. Vranic, Smederevo	15.7

Rebounds Per Game

Aleksandar VULETIC
  Viva Basket
  (203-F/C-)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Vuletic, Viva Basket	9.5
2. Knezevic, Vojvodina	9.4
3. Ivosev, Vojvodina	8.8
4. Despotovic, KG 06	7.6
5. Petrovic, Viva B.	7.3
6. Gugleta, Zeleznicar	7.1
7. Koprivica, Radnicki.	7.0
8. Dukanac, Mladost .	6.9
9. Zivanovic, Smede.	6.8
10. Boricic, Radnicki.	6.7

Assists Per Game

Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Bjelica, Viva Basket	6.9
2. Karic, Radnicki BG	6.2
3. Kasabasic, Zeleznicar	5.8
4. Boltic, Radnicki BG	4.8
5. Mijovic, Radnicki.	4.2
6. Dinic, Spartak	4.2
7. Tanasijevic, Stude.	3.9
8. Vukasovic, Radnic.	3.9
9. Stanisavljev., Jagod.	3.6
10. Sparovic, Smede.	3.6

Steals Per Game

Negoslav GACIC
  Radnicki BG
  (--)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Gacic, Radnicki BG	2.7
2. Kuntic, Spartak	2.5
3. Karic, Radnicki BG	2.5
4. Ivosev, Vojvodina	2.4
5. Tanasijevic, Stude.	2.1
6. Zivanovic, Smede.	2.0
7. Kasabasic, Zeleznicar	2.0
8. Tomasevic, Vojvo.	2.0
9. Radic, Spartak	1.9
10. Sparovic, Smede.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Slobodan GUGLETA
  Zeleznicar
  (--83)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Gugleta, Zeleznicar	2.4
2. Knezevic, Vojvodina	1.5
3. Karahodzic, Spartak	1.4
4. Markovic, Sindjeli.	1.1
5. Marelja, KG 06	1.0
6. Savic, Student	1.0
7. Vucic, Student	1.0
8. Kovac, Zeleznicar	0.9
9. Vasilic, Radnic.	0.9
10. Mirkovic, KG 06	0.9

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SLOVAKIA

Dont Ride the Rollercoaster - by Corey Hallett
Life can be so hard at times and so easy at others. Sometimes calls go your way and sometimes they dont. If I could give one word of advice to all the players out there who are thinking about crossing the ocean and making a living playing basketball is, do not get to high with the highs and too low with the lows. If you treat your game and the season like a rollercoaster you stand no chance in making it to the end. By no means am I a self proclaimed expert at this, I myself at times have mood swings like a teenage girl but for the most part I try to keep a level head and see the bigger picture. There are so many deciding factors in a basketball game and season that are out of your control so there is no need to worry about them. I pride myself on working hard and controling what I can and let the other things fall in place as they may.
Now that I am off my Dr. Phil word of advice for the day we here in Prievidza picked up a much needed home win Saturday after dropping some close and tough road games. Once again our fans were great and supported us well. We now go into an important stretch for us in our push to achieve the best possible playoff position. This includes 2 derby (rival) games against Handlova. We will see how things go but I am confident that we will be alright.
Once again feel free to contact via coreyhallett@gmail.com for any questions and why does Eurobasket Slovakia update only once every 2 weeks? Can someone help me out so I dont have to answer that question from everyone back home ten times a week?
And dont forget stay off the rollercoaster.................

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SLOVENIA

Stats Leaders - 1B

Points Per Game

Uros IVANOVIC
  Radovljica
  (204-F/C-74)
  Avg: 20.8

1. Ivanovic, Radovljica	20.8
2. Husic, Kraski Zidar	18.6
3. Lobe, Grosuplje	18.3
4. Petrovic, Nova G.	18.3
5. Blazevic, Litija	18.1
6. Pusic, Litija	17.7
7. Marcetic, Nova G.	17.6
8. Markus, Triglav .	17.2
9. Primc, Radovljica	17.0
10. Jotic, Rogaska	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Mirnes HUSIC
  Kraski Zidar
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Husic, Kraski Zidar	10.3
2. Jakhel, KD Postojna	9.7
3. Spesic, Rogaska	8.6
4. Barovic, Primor.	8.5
5. Ivanovic, Radovljica	8.3
6. Hocevar, Triglav .	8.1
7. Buda, Kraski Zidar	7.5
8. Klepo, Radovljica	7.3
9. Sivka, Konjice	7.1
10. Lobe, Grosuplje	7.1

Assists Per Game

Boban TOMIC
  Rogaska
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 6

1. Tomic, Rogaska	6.0
2. Perko, Splosna .	5.6
3. Tratnik, Primor.	5.3
4. Zalar, Kraski Zidar	4.3
5. Glavas, KD Postojna	4.2
6. Milasinovic, Sencur C.	4.1
7. Blazevic, Litija	4.0
8. Milovic, Splosna .	3.5
9. Jereb, Konjice	3.3
10. Pusic, Litija	3.2

Steals Per Game

Boban TOMIC
  Rogaska
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Tomic, Rogaska	2.9
2. Lobe, Grosuplje	2.6
3. Jereb, Konjice	2.4
4. Bratina, Primor.	2.1
5. Jotic, Rogaska	2.0
6. Milovic, Splosna .	1.9
7. Zalar, Kraski Zidar	1.8
8. Erculj, Grosuplje	1.8
9. Glavas, KD Postojna	1.7
10. Gavric, Primorac.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Gregor JAKHEL
  KD Postojna
  (206-F/C-88)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Jakhel, KD Postojna	1.9
2. Husic, Kraski Zidar	1.4
3. Lobe, Grosuplje	1.2
4. Trampus, Grosuplje	1.1
5. Barovic, Primor.	1.1
6. Hren, Litija	1.0
7. Kosec, Sencur CP	1.0
8. Klepo, Radovljica	0.7
9. Ilic, KD Postojna	0.7
10. Smaka, Primorac.	0.7

Pinar Karsiyaka conquer EuroChallenge Group G - by Eurobasket News
Pinar Karsiyaka-Krka 94:74

Pinar Karsiyaka conquer EuroChallenge Group G after the home win over Krka. The Turkish side produced a 94:74 win for 2-0 record on top.
The first quarter provided few clues of what was to come as the teams could barely be separated in the early exchanges. Krka even took 24:19 lead after the first 10 minutes and looked better in the court. The picture dramatically had changed however in the second frame as the hosts needed 21-10 for 40:34 lead. Another 19-18 in the third period brought 59:52 when Petrov closed the third frame. Bayav made it 61:52 and Smith increased to 65:54 early in the fourth. The lead continued to grow and the hosts managed to grab 20-point success. Bayav was the last to score in the game for the final result.
Jovo Stanojevic (208-C-77, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 23 points and 12 rebounds for the hosts and David Holston (170-G-86, college: Chicago St.) scored 22. Osiris Eldridge (191-G-88, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) netted 16, whilst Smith posted 9. Jure Balazic (204-F-80) ended up with 15 points in the losing effort and Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) netted 13. Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80) posted 12, whilst Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Purdue) added 10.

Pinar Karsiyaka: Jovo Stanojevic 23+12 rebs, David Holston 22, Osiris Eldridge 16, Smith 9
Krka: Jure Balazic 15, Dusan Djordjevic 13, Smiljan Pavic 12, Christopher Booker 10

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SPAIN

Estudiantes upset Galatasaray in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray - Estudiantes 57:68

Estudiantes registered the second consecutive EuroCup Last 16 stage win. They overcame Galatasaray in Istanbul to improve at 2-0 record in Group K. They share the top position with Pepsi Caserta. Galatasaray fell at 0-2 record.
Galatasaray needed a win badly in this one and they surged ahead early in the encounter. But the Spaniards withstood the challenge and kept it close in the opening stanza. Estudiantes trailed by just a single point after ten minutes. Things got better for Estudiantes in the second period. They put their noses in front and rallied to a 41:39 halftime lead. Estudiantes dominated in the third frame. Galatasaray managed just 9 points in the period and faced a 5-point deficit at the final break. The hosts stayed hopeful till the final minutes but Granger and Daniel Clark (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) scored five points in a row late in regulation and the visitors ran away for good in this one. Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan) provided 16 points for Estudiantes. Daniel Clark had 10 points in the victory. Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 14 points for Galatasaray. Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider) chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Galatasaray: Luksa Andric 14, Jerry Johnson 11
Estudiantes: Josh Asselin 16, Daniel Clark 10, Sergio Sanchez (190-G-81) 9, Marc Blanch (195-F-82) 9

JR Giddens left Valencia - by Jaime Plaza Aparicio
The former NBA player ( New York and Boston) who have played this Season for Asseco Prokom left the East Spanish Team Power Electronics Valencia whitout playing any minute. The Player was not even registered for the TOP 16 of the Euroleague. He didnt get a chance despite of his good games with Asseco in the Euroleague in which he averaged 9. points, 5,2 rebounds and a ranking of 9.6.
Valencia has signed him the 7th of January and today, 17 days later, Valencia has cancelled his contract.

Spanish EBA round 17 best performance: Steve Edwards - by Mariano Galindo
Veteran forward Steve Edwards (196-F-73, college: Miami (FL)) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Dominicas Santa Cruz La Palma receiving ahis second in a row Eurobasket.com EBA of the Week award. Edwards signed 35 points, with a perfect 19/19 in free throwns, nailed 5 boards, gave 6 assists and got 47 index rating!. The 37-year old player could not help to his team in spite of his big performance. Sergio Rodriguez, Ibon Carreto, Jose Antonio Lopez, Marc Pico, Eduard Villacampa...made good games as well.

Home is Where I Keep My Mac - by Charles Ramsdell

Dear Friends and Strangers,

Home has become where my clothes and laptop are. Ive become expert at walking into a bare apartment with two large roller duffel bags and a carry-on and turning it into a home. Maybe it isnt what my mother would call a home and it is still pretty bare after I move in but I make it comfortable enough for my needs. The only things that ever gets put up on the walls are newspaper clippings and pages of my book. In every new city and thus new apartment I am ever buying the same kitchen and household utensils over and over again. Its not like I can pack them up and mail them to the next city and team. At the end of the season I am unemployed for a couple months until I sign a new contract and find out where I will be living and playing for the next eight or nine months.

The American basketball players lifeline, Holy Grail, and best friend when he is overseas is his laptop. It connects us back to the States and our friends and family. It gives us English language television and movies. It lets us see our girlfriends faces from back home and get complained to much more directly about how far away we are. The laptop is the device that helps us fill the crazy amount of down time we have. I am perhaps a bit peculiar because I use mine for writing as well.

A major feature is Spanish apartments I find are incredibly sub-par beds. They are too short, well all beds are too short for me, I tend to sleep corner to corner. Sometimes youll get an apartment that tries to pass off two twin sized beds pushed together as a legit double bed. Newsflash, it isnt when the mattresses arent connected in any way and you fall between the gap at four in the morning. The mattresses are also very thin and tortuously hard and Spaniards, while up to date on all the latest technologies and advances, somehow missed the memo on box springs. Now, Im not sure on the measurable improvement of comfort that a box spring provides but I do know that my bed doesnt have one and it is damn uncomfortable.

Time for my biggest complaint. I havent seen a clothes dryer or dishwasher since I got here. I have dreams, wonderful dreams, of quickly transferring my practice gear from the washer to the dryer and in the morning having very un-moist clothing to go practice in. I have even better dreams, dreams on the level of things I wont mention, of finishing a meal I cooked for myself and placing the plates, silverware, pots, pans, and cups used during the meal into their specifically designed positions in a dishwasher, adding soap, and then simply pressing a cute little button. Im not sure if Americans are too lazy to hand wash dishes and hang dry clothes or if Spaniards are too lazy to bring the heavy machines up to their apartments.

These are the things that make some strange rooms into my home. Ive grown accustomed to having few things around the house that serve to decorate or take up empty spaces on shelves, walls, or tables. I even feel a bit overwhelmed when I go back to my Moms house and take in all that makes up her home. She is the Queen of nick-nacks and shelf fillers. No Mother, that isnt an insult. Ive even trained myself to stay on top of the dishes so they dont pile up and turn my kitchen into a war zone. And if timed correctly you only need to sets of practice gear when you have two-a-days all week, even with hang drying. I will never grow accustomed to the beds. Spaniards have accomplished many great things in their long history that dwarfs the history of the United States, but they need to get a clue and figure out how to make a proper bed like civilized human beings. They built and assembled the Spanish Armada consisting of a hundred and fifty ships over four hundred years ago but they still dont have a bed that doesnt make me feel like two dwarfs spent the whole night throwing oranges at me.

Unicaja lands Gerald Fitch - by Eurobasket News
Unicaja came up with important signing. The Spanish outfit inked a deal for rest of the season with American Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky). He arrives to Malaga from Aliaga Petkim, where he averaged 18.8 points, 8.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists for six games in Turkish league. His best performance came against Turk Telekom: 30 points and 9 rebs.
Gerald Fitch started this season with Fuenlabrada, but they parted ways in October. Last season with Fuenla, Fitch had 17.9 ppg, 5 rpg and 2.7 apg. He ended the season as the second scorer of ACB. Eurobasket awarded Fitch with Spanish ACB All-Imports Team -10. In 2009, Fitch was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Player of the Year -09. He was a member of Kepez averaging 28.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5 assists and 2.1 steals in 14 TBL games. In the past, Fitch played for Cantu, Galatasaray, Austin Toros, Khimik Yuzhny and Cibona.

Spanish EBA round 17 best performance: Steve Edwards - by Mariano Galindo
Veteran forward Steve Edwards (196-F-73, college: Miami (FL)) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Dominicas Santa Cruz La Palma, receiving his second Eurobasket.com EBA of the Week award in a row. Edwards signed 35 points, with a perfect 19/19 in free throws, nailed 5 boards, gave 6 assists and got 47 index rating!. The 37-year old player could not help to his team in spite of his big performance. Sergio Rodriguez, Ibon Carreto, Jose Antonio Lopez, Marc Pico, Eduard Villacampa...made good games as well.

Cajasol stay perfect in EuroCup Last 16 - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol - Benetton 66:55

Cajasol recorded the second straight win in EuroCup Last 16 round. They defeated Benetton for 2-0 record in Group L. Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) nailed 22 points and collected 11 rebounds to lead the charge. Benetton in the meantime suffered the first defeat at the tournament this season.
Cajasol took over early in the encounter. They tried to stay in charge and posted a 21:18 lead after ten minutes. Benetton however stiffened their defense in the second term and it paid off. The Spanish team managed just 10 points and led by a single point at halftime 31:30. Cajasol however tuned back into this one after the main break. Mindaugas Katelynas (205-F-83, college: Chattanooga) and Louis Bullock (185-G-76, college: Michigan) paced the hosts as they arrived at the final intermission up by 4 points. Benetton failed to answer adequately in the final period. The visitors scored only 9 points in ten minutes and had to surrender at the end. Mindaugas Katelynas and Louis Bullock provided 11 points each for the Seville team. Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) and Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia) finished with 8 points each for Benetton. Ryan Toolson (193-G-85, college: Utah Valley St.), Donatas Motiejunas (213-C-90, agency: Interperformances) and Stefan Markovic (194-G-88) netted 7 points in defeat.

Cajasol: Paul Davis 22+11 boards, Mindaugas Katelynas 11, Louis Bullock 11
Benetton: Hrvoje Peric 8, Devin Smith 8

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SWEDEN

Michael Palm gets MVP of the Week award for Swedish Basketligan - by Eurobasket News
Experienced naturalized American center Michael Palm (208-C-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy) had an amazing evening in the last round for Boras Basket and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
The 31-year old center had a double-double of 27 points and thirteen rebounds, while his team beat Eco Orebro (#10, 4-19) 107-98. Boras maintains the 7th position in American Basketligan. Boras is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 9-15 record. In the team's last game Palm had a remarkable 69.2% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Boras and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Western Washington graduate has very impressive stats this year. Palm is in league's top in points (9th best: 17.5ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 9.3rpg) and averages solid 1.7bpg and 57.2% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was young forward Johan Roenstrom (202-F-89) of KFUM Jamtland Basket. Roenstrom impressed basketball fans with 26 points and 9 rebounds. Bad luck as Jamtland lost that overtime game 101-106 to the higher-ranked Norrkoping (#4, 14-6). Jamtland 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 7-16 record. Roenstrom is a newcomer at Jamtland and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was another Boras Basket's star - Swedish Christopher Ryan (196-G-90). Ryan showcased his all-around game by recording 26 points, five rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was another key player of Boras, helping his team with a 107-98 win against the lower-ranked Eco Orebro (#10, 4-19). The chances of Boras not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 15 games, recording just nine victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Ryan could try to bring Boras' a little bit higher in the standings. Ryan has a very solid season. In 20 games in Sweden he scored 15.1ppg. He also has 4.4rpg and FGP: 50.3%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lesli Myrthil (200-F-77) of Solna - 14 points and 10 rebounds
5. Tyrone Levett (195-G/F-80) of LF Basket - 22 points and 6 rebounds
6. Kellen McCoy (168-G-87) of Boras - 17 points, 4 rebounds and 10 assists
7. Dino Pita (192-G-88) of Sodertalje - 27 points and 2 rebounds
8. Oladapo Ayuba (198-F-86) of Norrkoping - 14 points and 13 rebounds
9. Fred Drains (195-F-71) of Norrkoping - 11 points and 11 rebounds
10. Sean Smith (198-G-87) of Eco Orebro - 22 points and 3 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)

Norrkoping Dolphins needed a narrow win over BK Ventspils to tie both records - by Eurobasket News
Norrkoping Dolphins-BK Ventspils 77:75

Norrkoping Dolphins needed 77:75 narrow win over BK Ventspils to tie both records at 1-1 in Group K of EuroChallenge. The Swedish side grabbed the valuable win in the Last 16 stage to remain alive for the next round.
The guests looked a bit more accurate in the first minutes and grabbed 23:22 lead after the first 10 minutes. Kuzminskas made it 24:22 and Andrew Mitchell (181-G-79, college: Kent St.) tied the game in the start of the second frame. Andrew Mitchell also closed the period at 46:41 as the hosts won the quarter 24-18. Arturs Berzins (204-C-88, agency: FCM) and Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) shocked the hosts from the perimeter for 49:46 as BK Ventspils opened the third period with 8-0 run. Janis Strelnieks also was the last to score in the frame but Norrkoping Dolphins enjoyed 61:56 after three quarters. The home side tried to continue to maintain their advantage throughout the remainder of the game but the Baltic side were too late to give up. At first Ingus Bankevics (195-G/F-85, agency: Alti Sport) gave them 66:65 lead and then he brought 75:73 on the board. Andrew Mitchell and Fred Drains (195-F-71, college: Kean) however delivered the win for the home side.
Andrew Mitchell paced all the winners with 21 points and Fred Drains added 14. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79, college: N.Arizona) scored 11, while Anton Saks (200-G-89) and Povilas Sakinis (199-F-80) added 8 apiece. Janis Strelnieks ended up with 14 points in the losing effort, while Anderson, Ingus Bankevics, Lauris Blaus (204-C-90, agency: FCM) and Arturs Berzins scored 10 each.

Norrkoping Dolphins: Andrew Mitchell 21, Fred Drains 14, Joakim Kjellbom 11, Anton Saks 8, Povilas Sakinis 8
BK Ventspils: Janis Strelnieks 14, Anderson 10, Ingus Bankevics 10, Lauris Blaus 10, Arturs Berzins 10

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SWITZERLAND

Standings - LNB

LNB Standings

1. Neuchatel		15-2
2. Bernex		15-3
3. Vevey		14-4
4. Momo Basket		10-5
5. Martigny		9-8
6. Swiss Central		8-9
7. DDV Lugano		7-11
8. Pully		7-11
9. Chene		6-11
10. Villars		6-11
11. Bern		5-11
12. Vernier		5-11
13. Acad.Fribourg		4-14

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

TAIWAN

Rashad Jennings gets MVP of the Week award for Taiwanese SBL - by Eurobasket News
American Rashad Jennings (203-F-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Pure Youth and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 5.
The 26-year old forward had a double-double of 22 points and twenty five rebounds, while his team edged out Dacin Tigers (#3, 6-5) 74-71. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Pure Youth maintains the 2nd position in Taiwanese SBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Pure Youth will need more victories to improve their 9-4 record. Jennings turned to be Pure Youth's top player in his first season with the team. University of Arkansas at Little Rock graduate has very impressive stats this year. Jennings. Jennings is in league's top in points (2nd best: 17.8ppg) and averages solid 1.1bpg and 50.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old American forward Emmanuel Jones (200-F-85) of league's best team Taiwan Beer. Jones impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 25 points and 23 rebounds. Of course Taiwan Beer cruised to a 102-94 overtime win over the lower-ranked KKL (#6, 4-8). Of course Taiwan Beer still keep the league's top spot. His team belongs to top of the standings with 12-1 record and is considered one of the main candidates for the league title. Jones is a newcomer at Taiwan Beer and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.4ppg (#4). He also registered 11.6 boards per game. University of Texas-Pan American alumni Jones played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas.

The third best performed player last round was American Marcus Dove (206-G/F-85) of Taiwan Mobile (#7). Dove scored 25 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Taiwan Mobile, leading his team to a 84-78 win against the higher-ranked Pure Youth (#2, 9-4). Taiwan Mobile can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 3-9 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Dove he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Dove has individually a great season in Taiwan. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.9ppg (5th best) and rebounds with 11.8rpg (4th best). He also has 2.4spg and 2.1bpg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ching-Hwan Chen (190-F-86) of KKL - 28 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Shawn Hawkins (198-G/F-82) of KKL - 32 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Emmanuel Jones (200-F-85) of Taiwan Beer - 21 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Ching-Hwan Chen (190-F-86) of KKL - 22 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Chia-Hong Chien (197-F-87) of Pure Youth - 24 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Emmanuel Jones (200-F-85) of Taiwan Beer - 21 points and 10 rebounds
10. Alexus Foyle (198-F-78) of Dacin Tigers - 19 points and 10 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)

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

TANZANIA

JKT and Pazi set pace in RBA League - by Carlos Pereira
By Brown Msyani
http://www.thecitizen.co.tz

Dar es Salaam. JKT had a field day on Sunday following their impressive victory over Hooplife in the ongoing Regional Basketball League (RBA).
JKTs dominance in the game was obvious from the first whistle as they annihilated the newly promoted outfit 146-38 at the National Indoor Stadium.
Charles Makene was at his best for the former champions after burying 46 points while his teammate Francis Mlewa added 29 to put the score beyond Hooplifes reach.
The game, which looked more of a training session, saw JKT finish the first quarter with a convincing 28-5 lead.
Hooplife came into the game in the second quarter and pressed forward, but they lacked muscles to unsettle the JKT defence manned by Neville Sita, Mkumbo Mgendi and Frank Simkoko. JKT swooped in the final minutes of the second quarter to make the scoreboard read 69-12 in their favour.
The winners added 25 points in the third quarter, leaving the inexperienced opponents thinking about how to overturn the deficit.

Basketball fans who turned up at the venue also witnessed a closely fought match pitting Pazi against Oilers. The equally contested match saw Pazi rally to edge out Oilers 81-78.
Oilers, who led 40-38 until the breather, lost steam in the second half to allow their opponents claim the victory.
Pazi notched 20 points in the third quarter compared to 14 chalked by Oilers. The former champions held on to seal a wafer thin win.
Ladislaus Ikunguru buried 19 points for Pazi before Daniel Muya added 13 points. Oilers ace Lusajo Samuel scored 24 points.

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TURKEY

TB2L Standings

Group A
1. Genc Banvit		11-3
2. Vestel		11-3
3. Orman Genc		10-4
4. Genc Telekom		9-5
5. Usak		9-5
6. Final Genclik		7-7
7. Istanbul B.B.		7-7
8. Darussafaka		6-8
9. Pertevniyal		6-8
10. Adanaspor		4-10
11. FMV Isikspor		3-11
12. Izmir B.B.		1-13
Group B
1. Optimum TED		13-1
2. Kepez Bld		10-4
3. Hacettepe Univ.		10-4
4. Gaziantep		9-5
5. Selcuk Univ.		8-6
6. Gelisim		8-6
7. Istanbulspor		7-7
8. Akhisar Bld		6-8
9. Beykoz		4-10
10. Basaksehir		4-10
11. TED Istanbul		3-11
12. ITU		2-12

Mersin lands Anthony Grundy - by Eurobasket News
Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) is a new player of Mersin. The American guard signed a deal for rest of the season. Grundy supposed to join Tezenis Verona last week, but he failed to pass the medical tests.
Anthony Grundy started this season in Greece as a member of AEK Athens. He appeared in 10 league games averaging 14.5 points and 3.1 assists. Grundy played in Italy two years ago and he was the second scorer of SerieA with 17.9 ppg. He was a member of Carife Ferrara at that time. From 2007 to 2009, Grundy played for Panellinios Athens and was the top scorer in Greek league in their first season together. He had 21.4 ppg for 26 games. In the past, Grundy also played for Teramo, Ramat Hasharon and Oldenburg. He is a product of the North Carolina State University.

Antalya adds Gerrod Henderson and Bradley Buckman - by Eurobasket News
Antalya announced signing of Gerrod Henderson (192-G-78, college: Louisiana Tech) and Bradley Buckman (203-F-84, college: Texas) for rest of the season.
Gerrod Henderson spent 2009/10 in Ukraine as a member of Budivelnyk Kyiv. He appeared 21 times in the league averaging 13.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and 3.1 assists. They were the regular season champions and Henderson participated at the Ukrainian All-Star Game. Before Budivelnyk, Henderson was a member of Politekhnika-Halychyna Lviv, Anwil, Azovmash, Hapoel Ironi Nahariya, Kolossos Rhodes, Panionios and Hemofarm.
Bradley Buckman started this season with Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt, but they parted ways in October. He played six games in German league registering 8.3 ppg and 5.3 rpg. Buckman is not a new face in Turkey as he spent last season with Kepez. He had 10.3 ppg and 6 rpg for 25 games.

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UBA

URBL Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jermaine BARNES
(194-G/F-82)
Avg: 26

1. Barnes, GIE M.	26.0
2. Sloan, S.Generals	25.6
3. Perkins, Austin K.	23.0
4. Kearse, Dallas S.	22.8
5. Hill, DFW Warriors	22.2
6. Grismore, C.Tex.	21.6
7. Clark, St.Mount.	20.3
8. James, DFW W.	19.8
9. Webb, Tennessee D.	19.3
10. Davis, Dallas Stars	19.0

Rebounds Per Game

Jermaine DAILEY
  USA
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Dailey, GIE M.	12.2
2. Hall, St.Mount.	10.5
3. Hill, DFW Warriors	10.1
4. Stroud, GIE M.	9.7
5. Davis, Dallas Stars	9.6
6. Anderson, DFW W.	9.3
7. Wilson, Tennesse.	9.3
8. Kelly, S.Generals	9.1
9. Moore, S.Generals	9.0
10. Akpele, S.Generals	9.0

Assists Per Game

Will DE LA CRUZ
  DOM
  (188-G-80)
  Avg: 9.1

1. De La Cruz, S.Gen.	9.1
2. Beaulah, GIE M.	7.9
3. Haskins, C.Texas C.	7.9
4. Belton, GIE M.	7.9
5. Williams, GIE M.	7.8
6. Douglas, DFW W.	7.2
7. Brown, Norman E.	6.5
8. Taylor, Tennesse.	6.0
9. Barnes, GIE M.	5.5
10. Snell, Atlanta A.	5.2

Steals Per Game

Mychal KEARSE
(194-G-83)
Avg: 3.5

1. Kearse, Dallas S.	3.5
2. Williams, S.Generals	3.2
3. Taylor, Tennesse.	3.1
4. Williams, GIE M.	3.1
5. Haskins, C.Texas C.	2.6
6. Brown, Norman E.	2.5
7. Snell, Atlanta A.	2.4
8. Barnes, GIE M.	2.3
9. Sloan, S.Generals	2.2
10. Clark, St.Mount.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Demario WILLIAMS
(216-C-85)
Avg: 6.2

1. Williams, GIE M.	6.2
2. Moore, S.Generals	5.5
3. Davis, Dallas Stars	3.2
4. Hall, St.Mount.	2.8
5. Wilson, Tennesse.	2.8
6. Dailey, GIE M.	2.5
7. Stokes, Dallas S.	2.4
8. Hill, DFW Warriors	2.3
9. Anderson, DFW W.	1.9
10. Stroud, GIE M.	1.8

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

UKRAINE

Chris Owens gets MVP of the Week award for Ukrainian Superleague - by Eurobasket News
Experienced American Chris Owens (204-F-79, agency: Pro One Sports) had an amazing evening in the last round for Azovmash Mariupol and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 30.
The 31-year old forward had the game-high 24 points adding nine rebounds and seven assists for Azovmash in his team's victory, helping them to beat BC Odessa (#9, 12-16) 92-85. Azovmash maintains the 4th position in Ukrainian Superleague. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Azovmash will need more victories to improve their 16-11 record. In the team's last game Owens had a remarkable 71.4% from 2-point range. He turned to be Azovmash's top player in his first season with the team. The University of Texas graduate has very impressive stats this year. Owens is in league's top in rebounds (7th best: 7.0rpg) and averages solid 50.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 29-year old American guard Derrick Zimmerman (189-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports) of Hoverla Ivano-Frankivsk. Zimmerman impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 12 points and 14 assists. Bad luck as Hoverla was edged by the lower-ranked DniproAzot (#10, 11-16) 82-80. Hoverla managed to keep the same 3rd spot in the standings. His team's 17-10 record is not bad at all. Zimmerman is a newcomer at Hoverla and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was American Keddric Mays (183-G-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) of Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye (#7). Mays scored 24 points and passed four assists. He was a key player of Ferro-ZNTU, leading his team to a 95-78 easy win against slightly higher-ranked Kryvbasbasket (#5, 15-12). Ferro-ZNTU needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 14 victories and 14 lost games. Mays has a very solid season. In 27 games in Ukraine he scored 13.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Fred House (195-F-78) of Azovmash - 20 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Christian Burns (203-F-85) of Ferro-ZNTU - 24 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Steve Burtt (185-G-84) of Dnipro - 27 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Denham Brown (198-F-83) of Dnipro - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Michael Fraser (203-C/F-84) of DniproAzot - 18 points and 11 rebounds
9. Ramel Curry (191-G-80) of Azovmash - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Mario Austin (206-F/C-82) of Dnipro - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 2 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)

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 23.3

1. Burtt, Dnipro	23.3
2. Burns, Fe.	19.2
3. Curry, Azovmash	17.7
4. Washington, BC Od.	16.2
5. Flores, BC Donetsk	16.2
6. Williams, Halychyna	15.3
7. Efejuku, Fe.	15.2
8. Karim, DniproAzot	15.0
9. DeGroat, BC Odessa	14.9
10. Wiggins, Halychyna	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Michael FRASER
  DniproAzot
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Fraser, DniproAzot	10.9
2. Wiggins, Halychyna	9.0
3. Burns, Fe.	8.3
4. Morrison, Halyc.	7.9
5. Saltovets, BC Kyiv	7.4
6. Austin, Dnipro	7.1
7. Owens, Azovmash	7.0
8. Thomas, Azovmash	6.8
9. Chappell, Hoverla	6.6
10. Hunter, Fe.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Todd ABERNETHY
  Halychyna
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Abernethy, Halyc.	5.5
2. Zimmerman, Hoverla	5.4
3. Millage, Khimik	4.8
4. Sirsnins, DniproAzot	4.7
5. Funn, Halychyna	4.7
6. Vasiljevic, BC Do.	4.7
7. Burtt, Dnipro	4.6
8. Brewer, BC Odessa	4.5
9. Curry, Azovmash	4.0
10. Swanson, Hoverla	3.9

Steals Per Game

Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Millage, Khimik	2.6
2. Love, Mykolaiv	1.7
3. House, Azovmash	1.6
4. Burns, Fe.	1.6
5. Greene, Mykolaiv	1.5
6. Protic, Khimik	1.5
7. Mazutis, Mykolaiv	1.5
8. Funn, Halychyna	1.4
9. Riabchuk, BC Kyiv	1.4
10. Rybalko, Fe.	1.3

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Hughes, Mykolaiv	2.6
2. Kravtsov, BC Do.	2.1
3. Hunter, Fe.	1.7
4. Agafonov, Budiv.	1.6
5. Pettway, Dnipro	1.6
6. Turner, BC Odessa	1.3
7. Onufriyev, Mykolaiv	1.3
8. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.	1.3
9. Morrison, Halyc.	1.3
10. Shvets, BC Odessa	1.1

Budivelnyk outscore Goettingen in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Budivelnyk - Goettingen 68:56

Budivelnyk record the first win in EuroCup Last 16. They overcame Goettingen in Ukraine to improve at 1-1 record. Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) scored 19 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the effort. Goettingen slipped at 1-1 record after the loss.
Goettingen got to the better start as they led for some time in the opening quarter. But Budivelnyk recovered and pulled ahead for a 19:17 lead at the first intermission. Goettingen struggled offensively in the second period. The visitors accounted for just 9 points in the period and the hosts capitalized stretching the lead to as many as 8 points at halftime. The hosts mounted the pressure in the third term. Budivelnyk cleared off to a double-digit lead and entered the fourth quarter up by 21 points 56:35. Goettingen did not surrender as they trimmed the deficit to 10 points late in regulation. But the Ukrainian team survived the test and rolled to the victory at the end. Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) provided 14 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts. Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points in the win. John Little (180-G-84, college: N.Iowa) responded with 14 points for Goettingen. Trenton Meacham (188-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Illinois) had 13 points in defeat.

Budivelnyk: Lamayne Wilson 19, Zach Morley 14, Andriy Agafonov 13
Goettingen: John Little 14, Trenton Meacham 13

Superleague cup "Final four" in Dnepropetrovsk - by Alexei Revenko
Today Superleague office announced that this year 'Final four' of the Superleague cup will take place in Dnepropetrovsk. There were two candidates to organize this final - Mariupol
and Dnepropetrovsk. Superleague office asked all clubs and decided to choose Dnepropetrovsk.
This 'Final four' will play in 12-13 February in Sport Palace 'Meteor'.
In semi-finals will play
BC Donetsk - Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk
Azovmash Mariupol - Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye

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UNITED KINGDOM

BBL Team Of The Week - Week 18 - by Paul Nilsen
They are the form team of the new calendar year and most definitely turning the screw in their pursuit to successfully defend their BBL Championship title. With this in mind, maybe its not too surprising the red-hot form of Newcastle Eagles means their players dominate our line-up this week as the Tyneside team grab three spots in our fabulous five.

Trey Moore (192-G-75, college: Mississippi St.) (Newcastle Eagles)

Moore still leads all other players as he makes his seventh appearance of the season and that 1 in 2.6 ratio remains the standard to beat. Not for the first time in recent weeks, the playmaker underlined his enormous influence by falling not too far short of a triple double to further explain why the Eagles fans still refer to him in their chants courtside as Treymendous. He led the Eagles to a crucial away success at Prestige Homes MK Lions with 27 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists in a typically all-action display!

Daniel Gilbert (198-G-83, college: Buffalo) (Worcester Wolves)

While its been an up and down season for Wolves, Gilbert has remained as consistent as anybody and the guard makes our starting five for successive weeks after a super effort against Guildford Heat. In fact, it was the best performance of the week bar none as he claimed a valuation score of 30 having really lit it up from outside with six triples in a 34 point haul while also adding 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals to his total.

Joe Chapman (193-G-84, college: Marquette) (Newcastle Eagles)

Shooting ace Chapman returns for a fifth time this season as he tries to keep pace and catch up with his backcourt partner Moore. He was pivotal in the second win of the weekend for the Eagles at Worthing Thunder when the guard recorded 27 points and as with the Eagles team in general of late, stepped it up defensively too with 4 steals. It is an ominous sign for everyone in the title race since the form of Chapman during the post-Christmas period last season was arguably one of the key drivers in his his team finishing top of the podium.

Drew Sullivan (203-F-80, college: Villanova) (Mersey Tigers)

Its not been the best of times for Tigers recently and having endured a miserable time at the BBL Cup Final followed by a loss at home against Cheshire Jets, things were potentially heading even further downhill for the BBL Championship leaders. Tigers allowed their 17 point half time lead to evaporate during the second derby game of last weekend against Jets. However just when his team needed him, Sullivan stopped the rot and led by example with some big shots from the perimeter proving decisive and one of the most abiding memories of a classy performance. He was 5 of 7 from downtown and like Joe Chapman (193-G-84, college: Marquette), produced four steals to ensure he also makes our line-up for a fifth time.

Kadiri Richard (203-F-80, college: Virginia Union) (Newcastle Eagles).

It been a fantastic week or two for Kadiri Richard (203-F-80, college: Virginia Union). The high flying dunker had endured a slow start to his career on Tyneside but has exploded since the festive period after being handed more minutes and responsibility. His run of form has coincided with the Eagles strengthening their bid to defend their BBL Championship crown while he was also named Dunk Champion at the BBL Cup Final. Richard then returned to former club Worthing Thunder last weekend and claimed a double-double of 12 points and 14 rebounds while also blocking 2 shots and grabbing 3 steals. All of which helped him get a first appearance in our BBL Team Of The Week for 2010-11!

BBL Team Of The Week

Trey Moore (192-G-75, college: Mississippi St.) (Newcastle Eagles)
Danny Gilbert (Worcester Wolves)
Joe Chapman (193-G-84, college: Marquette) (Newcastle Eagles)
Andrew Sullivan (Mersey Tigers)
Kadiri Richard (203-F-80, college: Virginia Union) (Newcastle Eagles).

Off The Bench

Jeremy Bell (Cheshire Jets), Joseph Harris (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders), Shawn Myers (Prestige Homes MK Lions), Colin OReilly (Cheshire Jets), Anthony Rowe (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders), Justin Dobbins (Worcester Wolves)

Stats Leaders - BBL

Points Per Game

Jeremy BELL
  Cheshire Jets
  (183-G-83)
  Avg: 24.3

1. Bell, Cheshire Jets	24.3
2. Schneck, Cheshire.	21.8
3. Moore, Newcastle	21.6
4. Smith, Newcastle	20.7
5. Gilbert, Worcester	20.3
6. Stout, Sheffiel.	20.2
7. Zabas, Plymouth	19.9
8. Chapman, Newcastle	19.6
9. Dagostino, Sheffi.	19.5
10. Nelson, MK Lions	19.3

Rebounds Per Game

Shaun DURANT
  Worthing
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 10

1. Durant, Worthing	10.0
2. Schneck, Cheshire.	9.4
3. Nottley, Worthing	9.3
4. Myers, MK Lions	9.0
5. Missere, Leices.	9.0
6. Polk, Plymouth	8.7
7. Williams, Sheffi.	8.5
8. Tuck, Sheffiel.	8.4
9. Dobbins, Worcester	8.1
10. Rowe, Plymouth	8.0

Assists Per Game

Trey MOORE
  Newcastle
  (192-G-75)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Moore, Newcastle	6.8
2. Clark, MK Lions	5.3
3. Middleton, Worce.	5.1
4. Zabas, Plymouth	5.1
5. Patton, Sheffi.	4.8
6. Bell, Cheshire Jets	4.0
7. Blount, Leices.	4.0
8. Missere, Leices.	3.9
9. Marks, Plymouth	3.8
10. Dagostino, Sheffi.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Roderick MIDDLETON
  Worcester
  (186-G/F-82)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Middleton, Worce.	2.9
2. Clark, MK Lions	2.5
3. Prezzie-Blue, Worth.	2.2
4. Moore, Newcastle	2.2
5. Bell, Cheshire Jets	2.1
6. Harrison, Glasgow .	2.1
7. Greer, Cheshire.	2.0
8. Livas, Glasgow .	1.9
9. Schneck, Cheshire.	1.8
10. Murray, Cheshire.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Otis POLK
  Plymouth
  (206-C-88)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Polk, Plymouth	2.2
2. Missere, Leices.	1.8
3. Williams, Sheffi.	1.3
4. Richard, Newcastle	1.2
5. Sturt, Essex P.	1.1
6. Dobbins, Worcester	1.1
7. Toney, Liverpoo.	0.9
8. Harris, Leices.	0.8
9. Nelson, MK Lions	0.7
10. Janusauskas, Guildf.	0.6

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VENEZUELA

Venezuelans in Mexico - Guevara, Sucre, Vargas and coaches finish amazing season with Puebla - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan players Diego Guevara (184-G-77), Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) and Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) and coaches Nelson Solorzano and Carl Herrera finished an amazing season as members of Angeles de Puebla in Mexico's 2010-2011 LNBP, as they were able to take their team to the second round of the playoffs prior to being taken down by Pioneros de Quintana Roo, 3-1.

They lost the last game 72-71 at their own court, Miguel Hidalgo Arena of Puebla. Vargas netted 17 points with 6 rebounds and 6 assists while Guevara added 15 points, but it wasn't enough.

The team finished up with a 24-12 regular season record and in the first round of the playoffs they swept Lechugueros de Leon, 3-0 to round up one of the greatest seasons the franchise has ever had.

Another Venezuelan, Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86), played during the regular season but returned home due to family related issues back in December 2010.

Other Venezuelans who participated in this edition of LNBP were Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82) with Potros ITSON, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) with Fuerza Regia Monterrey and Ola Verde de Poza Rica and Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) with Lobos Grises de Durango.

Venezuelans in USA - Jose Hernandez shines in Southland's victory - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan Jose Hernandez (191-G-92) scored 16 of his 19 points during the first half and teammate Jake Hood made a key basket with less than a minute to go, providing a crucial victory for Southland Raiders over Mount De Sales, 49-47, according to Chris Withaker's report in the Americus Time Recorder.

Anthony Dunning netted 15 points and the Raiders got their third straight victory. Coach Ernest Scott praised Hernandez's role in the match. Jose did a good job in the first half, keeping us in the ball game. In the second half, the other guys picked up their play and helped us out a whole lot'

Hernandez is a Carabobo-born talent and one of several Venezuelan players making their way through the collegiate level in the United States.

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Cambage's 33-point game gives her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
19-year old center Elizabeth Cambage (203-C-91) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Bulleen Melbourne Boomers and receives a Australiabasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
She had the game-high 33 points adding nine rebounds for Bulleen Melbourne Boomers in her team's victory, helping them to crush Dandenong R. (#5, 9-8) with 17-point margin 88-71. Bulleen Melbourne Boomers maintains the 2nd position in Australian WNBL. They are still close to the very top. Bulleen Melbourne Boomers would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 14-2 record. It's Cambage's second year at Bulleen Melbourne Boomers and it's hard to imagine this team without her. Cambage has impressive league stats. She is league's best scorer averaging so far 22.4ppg. Cambage is in league's top in rebounds (3rd best: 8.0rpg) and averages solid 2.7bpg and 59.8% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Kristen Veal (176-G-81) of Logan Thunder. She is former international guard in her 3rd season at Logan Thunder. In the last game Veal recorded impressive 23 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. Bad luck as Logan Thunder was edged in overtime by the lower-ranked Sydney UF (#6, 9-9) 88-87. Logan Thunder managed to keep the same 3rd spot in the standings. Her team's 10-7 record is not bad at all. Veal is one of the most experienced players at Logan Thunder and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Logan Thunder's star - center Cayla Francis (192-C-89). Francis scored 19 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). She was another key player of Logan Thunder, helping her team with a 85-83 win against the lower-ranked Adelaide (#10, 2-14). Logan Thunder needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 10 victories and 7 lost games. Francis has a great season in Australia. After 15 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.3rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Cayla Francis (192-C-89) of Logan Thunder - 18 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Joanne Hill (182-F/G-73) of Townsville Fire - 17 points and 11 rebounds
6. Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) of Canberra C. - 27 points and 2 assists
7. Tully Bevilaqua (164-G-72) of Waves - 17 points and 7 rebounds
8. Tracy Gahan (188-F-80) of Dandenong R. - 12 points and 10 rebounds
9. DeMya Walker (191-F/C-77) of Adelaide - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Tayla Roberts (191-F/C-93) of AIS - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 4 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)

Tom Maher claims second-straight Coach of the Month Award - by Eurobasket News
After another perfect month on the floor, Bulleen Boomers head coach Tom Maher has snatched his second-straight Coach of the Month Award with the Boomers spending the month of December closing in on the Canberra Capitals in their race to take a strangle-hold of top spot.

After a slow start to the 2010/11 WNBL season, the Boomers havent faulted, as Maher has continued to expect the most from his charges, the likes of Cambage, Jenna OHea and Rachel Jarry slowly growing into some fine form as opposing teams continue to struggle to find weaknesses in the deep Boomers line-up.

Despite December being a shortened month, with the Christmas break giving the players and coaches a well-earned reprieve for a couple of weeks, the Boomers still had five games during their December fixture, four of them against sides still in the hunt for finals action.

They were flawless, handling Dandenong at home, Bendigo, Logan and Townsville on the road, before breaking records with a mammoth 56 point win over the AIS in Canberra.

Its not about the score its about how were playing, said Maher. Were not going to sit back with a cigar and play our bench if were well in front, he said.

Its very important that we promote our product Australians will watch a game if they see the things that they want to see in that game which is the good Aussie go, the one percenters, the second efforts, the persistence, the striving to do your best if those things are there theyll stay and watch it and theyll enjoy it.

With top-spot secured for now, Maher looks ahead to the coming contest with the Capitals with great poise, as he maintains that the approach hasnt changed for the side since theyve taken the top spot on the ladder.

It wasnt like, well were on top now, he said. Because if we lose to Canberra, it wouldnt have mattered.

Whats happened is were in a position where Dandenong took the margin out of the equation for us. So now we dont have to beat Canberra by a margin, we only have to beat them. So its who wins that game which determines who is going to be on top, and if were on top with three games to go, were a big chance to stay there.

With the Boomers now undoubtedly the in-form side of the WNBL with 13 straight wins to their name, Coach Maher believes that the side is in good place with finals looming, culminating from a great deal of hard work, injured players returning and finding their form again, and a little luck along the way.

I was impressed that we were able to beat Dandenong by 17 because they played some good basketball, he said.

Weve got to a stage now that weve got our game set and weve got to try to do that as well as we can. Were not going to reinvent the wheel now. Were further ahead by quite a margin when compared to where we were this time last year. Weve worked hard and were in a position now where were playing a style of game that we want to play. Weve just got to do some of those things better.

Other worthy recipients:

Bernie Harrower Bendigo went 3-1 in the month of December behind head coach Bernie Harrower, losing only to Bulleen who havent been touched since round 2. They took wins against West Coast, Adelaide and Townsville as they looked to reach their goal of a home final.

Carrie Graf The Capitals are another team that had a busy schedule throughout the month of December. With coach Graf at the helm, they were looking the goods to get through unscathed with wins over Adelaide, West Coast and AIS but the fell to Townsville in the final clash of the season.

Karen Dalton December might be remembered as the month Sydney Uni got their mojo back, as the Flames accounted for Townsville, the AIS and Dandenong as they slowly put their group back together again, after some injury worries earlier in the season. Daltons side could re-open the finals discussions again.

Courtesy of WNBL (www.wnbl.com.au)

Two WNBL Player of the Month Awards in a row for Liz Cambage - by Eurobasket News
After another big month for the Bulleen Boomers, their centre-piece Elizabeth Cambage (203-C-91) has claimed her second consecutive Womens National Basketball League Player of the Month Award, winning the Award for the month of December.

The 203cm centre was dominant before the Christmas break, playing a major role in the sides quest for the top spot on the WNBL Ladder.

Liz averaged 24.6 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.4 blocks throughout the month of December as the Boomers went 5-0 against Dandenong, Logan, Townsville, Bendigo and the AIS.

We were looking to reclaim our number one spot on the ladder and we were just working hard at training and going out and playing hard, she said.

We want to win thats what we do at Bulleen. Well do whatever it takes to win. Were looking to get a home Grand Final again and win it. Thats our main objective at the moment and were going to do whatever it takes to win it.

The Boomers face the Canberra Capitals this Friday night in a first-versus-second showdown. The highly anticipated game has much at stake, with the winning side claiming top spot. And although there is a long way to go before finals arrive, neither team will deny that winning this week is an important game.

Its been there in our minds of course, but you need to take each game, day by day, she said. You cant really get ahead of yourself.

Head coach of the Bulleen Boomers, Tom Maher, said he wasnt surprised to hear that she had picked up her second straight Player of the Month Award, predicting that she will be a runaway winner in this years MVP Award.

Shes had just a dominating season. Against Dandenong she took another step, she was ill and she was sewn up at half time and twelve months ago she would never have been able to perform like that. So I think theres another side to her and hats off to her, he said.

Ive been trying really hard to work on my defense, said Cambage of her focus in season 2010/11, ...not letting people score on me, playing better in a mismatch situation and being able to take a guard on a switch.

And its been these improvements that have helped place the Boomers in the box-seat heading into the finals, and as the side gets ready for their finals campaign, Cambage can think about what she might bring to the table post-season to help the team take the next step.

Other worth performances:

Marianna Tolo Averaging 13.5 points, 12 rebounds and 2.75 blocks, Tolo has been a major player in Canberras success in season 2010/11.

Tully Bevilaqua She averaged 14.75 points and 4.25 assists per game throughout the month of December, but her ability to accumulate points and lead the team has seen the Waves be competitive all season.

Renae Camino Logan have been in some good form recently but Renae Camino has been solid all season. In December, she delivered 17.5 points and 4 rebounds per game.

Kristi Harrower The Opals playmaker was a big part of the reason the Spirit peaked at third on the WNBL ladder. She averaged 15.5 points and 6.25 assists in December.

Amy Denson She was the October Player of the Month but she enjoyed a solid December as well, averaging 18 points and more than 5 rebounds over three games.

Courtesy of WNBL (www.wnbl.com.au)

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BELARUS - Women

Stats Leaders

Premier League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1. Kapylova, Sozh 21.8
2. Kozun, Olimpia 18,8
3. Bohdan, Victoria 17,3
4. Filonchyk, Olimpia16,5
5. Iordan, Olimpia 15,3

Rebounds Per Game

1. Kopylova, Sozh 12,4
2. Stelmakh, Sozh 11,5
3. Bohdan, Victoria 9,5
4. Avdeychuk, BRGU 9,4
5. Kozun, Olimpia 8,3

Assists Per Game

1. Kashlei, Olimpia 5,5
2. Anufryienka, Gorizont 3,6
3. Likhtarovich, Gorizont 3,2
4. Kapylova, Sozh 2,9
5. Zuzkova, Sozh 2,9

Steals Per Game

1. Givens, Minsk-2006 3,1
2. Anufryienka, Gorizont 3
3. Podshyvalava, Victoria 2,6
4. Kochubei, Gorizont 2,3
5. Dashkevich, Victoria 2,1

Blocks Per Game

1. Filonchyk, Olimpia 1,4
2. Kapylova, Sozh 1,4
3. Stelmakh, Sozh 1,3
4. Hasper, Gorizont 0,9
5. Kalenta, Berezina 0,9

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BRAZIL - Women

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Palmira MARCAL
  Acucar
  (178-G-84)
  Avg: 20

1. Marcal, Acucar	20.0
2. Mares Burian, Acu.	15.0
3. Gattei, Acucar	15.0
4. Santos Luz, Acucar	14.0
5. de Sousa, Joinville	14.0
6. Amaral, Joinville	13.0
7. de Souza, Acucar	10.0
8. Santos, Acucar	10.0
9. Teixeira Rib., Joinvi.	10.0
10. de Souza, Joinville	9.0

Rebounds Per Game

Clarissa SANTOS
  Acucar
  (182-C-88)
  Avg: 10

1. Santos, Acucar	10.0
2. Gustavo, Acucar	7.0
3. de Souza, Acucar	5.0
4. Santos Luz, Acucar	5.0
5. Marcal, Acucar	4.0
6. de Souza, Joinville	4.0
7. Barthold, Acucar	3.0
8. Amaral, Joinville	3.0
9. de Melo, Joinville	3.0
10. de Assis, Joinville	3.0

Assists Per Game

Natalia MARES BURIAN
  Acucar
  (168-G-84)
  Avg: 9

1. Mares Burian, Acu.	9.0
2. Santos Luz, Acucar	9.0
3. de Souza, Joinville	4.0
4. Gattei, Acucar	4.0
5. de Melo, Joinville	3.0
6. Gustavo, Acucar	3.0
7. Amaral, Joinville	2.0
8. Marcal, Acucar	1.0
9. de Sousa, Joinville	1.0
10. Teixeira Rib., Join.	1.0

Steals Per Game

Vanessa GATTEI
  Acucar
  (169-G-80)
  Avg: 4

1. Gattei, Acucar	4.0
2. Gustavo, Acucar	2.0
3. de Souza, Joinville	2.0
4. Santos, Acucar	2.0
5. Mares Burian, Acu.	2.0
6. Barthold, Acucar	2.0
7. Rodriguez, Acucar	1.0
8. da Silva, Joinville	1.0
9. Santos Luz, Acucar	1.0
10. de Sousa, Joinville	1.0

Blocks Per Game

Fabiana RADO
  Acucar
  (183-F/C-89)
  Avg: 1

1. Rado, Acucar	1.0
2. de Melo, Joinville	0.0
3. Silveira, Joinville	0.0
4. Barthold, Acucar	0.0
5. da Silva, Joinville	0.0
6. de Souza, Acucar	0.0
7. de Assis, Joinville	0.0
8. Santos Luz, Acucar	0.0
9. Angeloni, Joinville	0.0
10. Gattei, Acucar	0.0

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

Anna Vajda pens deal with USK Prague - by Eurobasket News
Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) pens deal with USK Prague leaving Fenerbahce in the end of January. Next month in EuroLeague the team from Czech Republic will take on Group A winners Cras Basket Taranto in the Eighth-Final Play-offs.
For almost her whole career Anna Vajda spent with MiZo Pecs 2010. The Hungarian National Player averaged 14.8ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 57.0%, 3PT: 24.5%, FT: 62.5% in her last season there in EuroLeague and in Hungarian League became the second top-scorer with 15.6ppg, Reb-3 (7.3rpg), 2.1apg, Steals-5 (2.9spg), FGP: 60.3%, 3PT: 34.1%, FT: 64.7%. This season the player started with Fenerbahce Istanbul (Turkey-TKBL) and had 2.7 points per game in EuroLeague and 7.3 points in Turkish League. Anna Vajda recorded 17 points and 9 rebounds in her top game as however Fenerbahce lost to Pankup Sekerspor Kayseri 60:61 in the start of the Regular Season Round 1 in Turkish league. In regular time game finished 56-56. Bahar Ozturk erupted with 18 points, while Latoya Pringle chipped in 16. Anna Vajda replied with 17 points for the guest side.

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EUROLEAGUE - Women

Loud changes in Dobri Anjeli - by Eurobasket News
Dobri Anjeli announced few changes before the start of EuroLeague 1/8 Finals against French Bourges. Bad news is that according to few sources Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) heads to UMMC. The Slovakian 175cm player leaves Dobri Anjeli and will sign with the Russian Champions.
Dobri Anjeli meanwhile added well-known Crystal Langhorne (188-F/C-86, college: Maryland) and Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) to the roster. Crystal Langhorne started the season for UMMC Ekaterinburg (Russia-PBL) but due to the deal before left the team in December. In eight games with UMMC Ekaterinburg before the winter break, the 24-year-old Crystal Langhorne averaged 12.4 points and 4.8 rebounds.In Russian League she recorded 18 points as UMMC Ekaterinburg had a 29-point road victory against second-best Spartak Vidnoye 82-53. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Spartak Vidnoye. UMMC Ekaterinburg led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Marina Solopova started 2010-2011 for VICI Aistes Kaunas (LMKL, starting five) and after 10 games in EuroLeague averaged 11.5 points per game. In her top game VICI Aistes grabbed valuable victory over Tarbes GB in the last day of the Qualifying Round 72:71 but Galatasaray took their place in 1/8 Finlas. Solopova stepped up with 28 points and Pilypaitis added 13. Kemezys netted 12, whilst Kuktiene added 8. Thorn responded with 20 points for the French side that finished the group with 3-7 record. Matic notched 14, whilst Dubljevic posted 10.

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FRANCE - Women

LFB Round 15: Tarbes defeat Challes-les-Eaux in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
An interesting game for Tarbes (11-3) which hosted 3rd placed Challes-les-Eaux (9-5). Second ranked Tarbes managed to get a 7-point victory 75-68. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-68. It was a good game for Montenegrin center Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) who led her team to a victory with 26 points and 7 assists. American guard Erin Thorn (178-81, college: BYU) contributed with 18 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American center Mistie Bass-Williams (191-83, college: Duke) answered with 31 points and 7 rebounds for Challes-les-Eaux. Defending champion maintains second place with 11-3 record having four points less than leader Bourges. Challes-les-Eaux at the other side dropped to the fourth position with five games lost. Tarbes are looking forward to face Mondeville (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Challes-les-Eaux will play against the league's leader Bourges and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
LFB top team - Bourges (14-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed seventh ranked Charleville-Mezieres (7-8) 75-50. It was a great evening for American guard Catherine Joens (180-82) who led her team to a victory scoring 9 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Styliani Kaltsidou helped adding 11 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American forward Kristen Mann (188-83, college: UCSB) with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Bourges maintains first place with 14-1 record. Newly promoted Charleville-Mezieres dropped to the ninth position with eight games lost. Bourges will play against Challes-les-Eaux (#4) on the road in the next round. Charleville-Mezieres will play against Nantes Reze (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Mont de Marsan was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Mondeville (8-7) played at the court of eighth ranked Basket Landes (8-7). Basket Landes defeated Mondeville 71-57 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Mondeville. It was an exceptional evening for Tamera Young who led the winners and scored 18 points. Lenae Williams came up with 15 points for Mondeville in the defeat. Basket Landes moved-up to sixth place, which they share with defeated Mondeville. Basket Landes will meet COB Calais (#13) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Mondeville will play against the league's second-placed Tarbes (#2) and hope to secure a win.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 15: Union Hainaut was smashed by Nantes on the road 69-48. COB Calais destroyed Villeneuve on its own court 72-53. Aix-en-Provence unfortunately lost to Arras in a road game 65-72. Bottom-ranked Toulouse was rolled over Lattes Montp. at home 47-67.

Nantes - Union Hainaut 69-48

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both ninth ranked Nantes Reze and 10th ranked Union Hainaut had identical 6-7 record. This time Nantes Reze used a home court advantage and crushed the opponent from Saint-Amand 69-48 on Sunday night. The game was mostly controlled by Nantes Reze. Union Hainaut managed to win second period 12-8. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was an exceptional evening for naturalized Senegalese forward Mame-Marie Sy-Diop (185-85) who led the winners and scored 13 points and 7 rebounds. The former international guard Caroline Aubert (168-80, college: Colorado) accounted for 8 points and 9 assists for the winning side. Nantes Reze's coach Laurent Buffard felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American center Alison Bales (201-85, college: Duke) came up with 6 points and 15 rebounds and the other American import forward Arhonda Covington (185-85, college: Louisville) added 13 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Union Hainaut in the defeat. Nantes Reze (7-7) moved-up to eighth place. Newly promoted Union Hainaut keeps the tenth position with eight games lost. Nantes Reze will meet Charleville-Mezieres (#9) on the road in the next round. Union Hainaut will play against Arras and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Union Hainaut: A.Covington 13+6reb, C.Beikes 13+4reb+1ast, E.Duvivier 9+4reb+3ast, A.Bales 6+15reb+3ast, L.Kamba 5+5reb, E.Silbande 2+1reb
Nantes: A.Hightowner 15+1reb+1ast, M.Sy-Diop 13+7reb+1ast, S.Kireta 11+5reb+1ast, Y.Andreyeva 10+1reb, C.Aubert 8+2reb+9ast, M.Plust 8+3reb+3ast

Bourges - Charleville 75-50

LFB top team - Bourges (14-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed seventh ranked Charleville-Mezieres (7-8) 75-50. The game was mostly controlled by Bourges. Charleville-Mezieres managed to win third quarter 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Charleville-Mezieres to just 7 points in fourth quarter. It was a great evening for American guard Catherine Joens (180-82) who led her team to a victory scoring 9 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Greek power forward Styliani Kaltsidou (188-83) helped adding 11 points and 7 rebounds. Four Bourges players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Kristen Mann (188-83, college: UCSB) with 13 points and 8 rebounds and Mali center Djene Diawara (192-85) scored 12 points and 9 rebounds. Bourges maintains first place with 14-1 record. Newly promoted Charleville-Mezieres dropped to the ninth position with eight games lost. Bourges will play against Challes-les-Eaux (#4) on the road in the next round. Charleville-Mezieres will play against Nantes Reze (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Charleville: K.Mann 13+8reb+1ast, D.Diawara 12+9reb+1ast, A.Bouderra 10+1reb+3ast, E.Dimitrova 8+1reb, P.Gulak-Lipka 4+3reb, A.Kusion 3+2reb+1ast
Bourges: P.Salagnac 15+2reb+1ast, I.Burgrova 12+5reb, E.Miyem 12+4reb, S.Kaltsidou 11+7reb, M.Miljkovic 9+1reb+3ast, C.Joens 9+5reb+4ast

Tarbes - Challes 75-68

An interesting game for Tarbes (11-3) which hosted in Tarbes 3rd placed Challes-les-Eaux (9-5). Second ranked Tarbes managed to get a 7-point victory 75-68. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-68. It was a good game for Montenegrin center Jelena Dubljevic (192-87) who led her team to a victory with 26 points and 7 assists. American guard Erin Thorn (178-81, college: BYU) contributed with 18 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American center Mistie Bass-Williams (191-83, college: Duke) answered with 31 points and 7 rebounds and the former international forward Magali Lacroix (186-75) added 10 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Challes-les-Eaux. Defending champion maintains second place with 11-3 record having four points less than leader Bourges. Challes-les-Eaux at the other side dropped to the fourth position with five games lost. Tarbes are looking forward to face Mondeville (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Challes-les-Eaux will play against the league's leader Bourges and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Challes: M.Bass-Williams 31+7reb+1ast, M.Lacroix 10+5reb+1ast, S.Palie 7+1reb+2ast, B.Thomas 6+2reb, C.Costaz 4+2reb+4ast, R.Bar 4+1reb+2ast
Tarbes: J.Dubljevic 26+2reb+7ast, E.Thorn 18+8reb+2ast, I.Matic 16+3reb, A.Cata-Chitiga 6+9reb, F.Lepron 4+1reb+4ast, N.El Gargati 3+4reb+2ast

COB Calais - Villeneuve 72-53

There was a minor upset when 11th ranked Villeneuve D'Asco (5-10) was smashed on the road by thirteenth ranked COB Calais (4-11) 72-53 on Sunday. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when COB Calais's pressure prevailed and they won that period 23-11 extending their advantage to 19 points. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Villeneuve D'Asco's 36. It was an exceptional evening for Senegalese center Ndeye Ndiaye (191-79, college: S.Nazarene) who led the winners and scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Sylvie Gruszczynski (171-86) accounted for 9 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side. Four COB Calais players scored in double figures. Nigerian center Olayinka Sanni (188-86, college: W.Virginia) came up with 23 points and 9 rebounds and American swingman Bridgette Mitchell (183-87, college: Duke) added 8 points respectively for Villeneuve D'Asco in the defeat. COB Calais maintains thirteenth place with 4-11 record. Loser Villeneuve D'Asco keeps the eleventh position with ten games lost. COB Calais will meet at home higher ranked Basket Landes (#6) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Villeneuve D'Asco will play against Toulouse (#14) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Villeneuve: O.Sanni 23+9reb, L.Datchy 8+2ast, B.Mitchell 8+4reb+2ast, C.Thomas 7+6reb, I.Tanqueray 6+1reb+3ast, M.Carpreaux 1+1reb+1ast
COB Calais: B.Ardossi 16+4reb, N.Ndiaye 15+8reb, M.Sinico 13+1reb+1ast, P.Papamichail 10+5reb, S.Gruszczynski 9+8reb+6ast, M.Arnaud 6+4reb

Landes - Mondeville 71-57

The game in Mont de Marsan was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Mondeville (8-7) played at the court of eighth ranked Basket Landes (8-7). Basket Landes defeated Mondeville 71-57 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Mondeville. The game was mostly controlled by Basket Landes. Mondeville managed to win fourth quarter 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Tamera Young (188-86, college: JMU) who led the winners and scored 18 points. Forward Julie Barennes (183-86) accounted for 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. Four Basket Landes players scored in double figures. American forward Lenae Williams (186-79, college: DePaul) came up with 15 points and the other American import guard Kristen Sharp (175-81, college: Cincinnati) added 13 points respectively for Mondeville in the defeat. Basket Landes moved-up to sixth place, which they share with defeated Mondeville. Basket Landes will meet COB Calais (#13) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Mondeville will play against the league's second-placed Tarbes (#2) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Mondeville: L.Williams 15+1reb+2ast, K.Sharp 13+2reb+2ast, V.Berezhynska 9+4reb+2ast, A.Brumermane 9+2reb, Y.Sene 6+4reb+2ast, A.Bonnan 3+7reb+2ast
Landes: T.Young 18+4reb+2ast, M.Laborde 17+3reb+1ast, J.Barennes 13+8reb+1ast, J.Humphrey 12+5reb, B.Diouf 7+5reb+1ast, A.Le Gluher 2+1reb+1ast

Arras - Aix-en-Provence 72-65

Very predictable result when seventh ranked Arras (8-6) won against at home 12th ranked Aix-en-Provence (4-10) 72-65 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-65. It was an exceptional evening for DR Congolese power forward Pauline Akonga Nsimbo (187-82, agency: LBM Management) who led the winners and scored 21 points and 6 rebounds. International guard Johanne Gomis (177-85) accounted for 22 points and 8 steals for the winning side. Australian guard Natalie Hurst (163-83) came up with 22 points and the former international forward Sabrina Reghaissia (188-83) added 12 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Aix-en-Provence in the defeat. Arras moved-up to fifth place. Loser Aix-en-Provence keeps the twelfth position with ten games lost. Arras will meet Union Hainaut (#10) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Aix-en-Provence will play against Lattes Montpellier and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Aix-en-Provence: N.Hurst 22+3reb+2ast, Z.Dimitrakou 12+5reb+3ast, S.Reghaissia 12+10reb+1ast, C.Gay 7+6reb+3ast, I.Strunc 5+4reb+2ast, H.Grima 5+3reb+5ast
Arras: J.Gomis 22+2reb, P.Akonga Nsimbo 21+6reb, O.Malashenko 9+9reb+3ast, M.Amant 8+8reb+1ast, L.Mitchell 6+6ast, A.Konteh 2

Toulouse - Lattes Montp. 47-67

Not a big story in a game when 14th ranked Toulouse (1-14) was outscored at home by fourth ranked Lattes Montpellier (10-5) 67-47 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Lattes Montpellier. Toulouse managed to win fourth quarter 19-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Toulouse to just 7 points in second quarter. Lattes Montpellier forced 22 Toulouse turnovers and outrebounded them 39-28 including 28 on the defensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Fatimatou Sacko (183-85) who led the winners and scored 11 points and 9 rebounds. Guard Gaelle Skrela (177-83) accounted for 13 points and 5 steals for the winning side. American guard Chandrea Jones (175-87, college: Syracuse, agency: LBM Management) came up with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds and Serbian forward Suzana Milovanovic (185-79, agency: LBM Management) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Toulouse in the defeat. Lattes Montpellier has a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Toulouse lost tenth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Lattes Montpellier will meet at home Aix-en-Provence (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Toulouse will play against Villeneuve D'Asco.
Top scorers:
Toulouse: C.Jones 12+10reb, S.Milovanovic 11+5reb+2ast, S.Dowdell 10+6reb, E.Maurice 6+2reb+1ast, C.Aubert 5+1reb+5ast, L.De Angelis 2+2reb+1ast
Lattes Montp.: G.Skrela 13+4reb+2ast, F.Sacko 11+9reb+3ast, I.Ajanovic 11+3reb+2ast, I.Perovanovic 8+6reb, A.Lelas 6+8reb+4ast, S.Dijon 6+7reb

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HUNGARY - Women

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Danielle PAGE
  ZTE
  (188-F-86)
  Avg: 18.7

1. Page, ZTE	18.7
2. Holt, MKB Eurol.	15.8
3. Tamane, MKB Eurol.	15.4
4. Carson, SEAT L.	15.3
5. Cvetanovic, Szolnok	14.7
6. Rasheed, Szeged	14.3
7. Nemeth, Szeged	14.1
8. Szlimak, Nanette .	13.8
9. Kublina, SEAT L.	13.7
10. Griffin, Pecs 2010	13.5

Rebounds Per Game

Danielle PAGE
  ZTE
  (188-F-86)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Page, ZTE	9.5
2. Tamane, MKB Eurol.	7.7
3. Krnjic, Pecs 2010	7.4
4. Olajuwon, SEAT L.	7.2
5. Cvetanovic, Szolnok	7.1
6. Pal, Vasas-Csata	7.0
7. Kublina, SEAT L.	6.1
8. Balla, Vasas-Csata	5.9
9. Griffin, Pecs 2010	5.9
10. Balint, Bajai NKK	5.8

Assists Per Game

Dora MEDGYESSY
  Atomeromu
  (174-G-86)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Medgyessy, Atome.	4.5
2. Bukovszki, ZTE	4.3
3. Ivanyi, Pecs 2010	4.3
4. Nemeth, Szeged	4.2
5. Honti, MKB Eurol.	4.1
6. Boskovic, Szolnok	4.0
7. Laczi, Szeged	3.9
8. Darida, Nanette FTC	3.9
9. Ristic, Szolnok	3.9
10. Eordogh, Vasas-Cs.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Gina SZEPSI
  Bajai NKK
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Szepsi, Bajai NKK	3.6
2. Bukovszki, ZTE	3.2
3. Laczi, Szeged	3.1
4. Darida, Nanette FTC	3.0
5. Szelesy, ZTE	2.9
6. Nemeth, Szeged	2.8
7. Demeter, Atomeromu	2.8
8. Medgyessy, Atome.	2.7
9. Szabo, Bajai NKK	2.7
10. Csicsai, BEAC	2.7

Blocks Per Game

Danielle PAGE
  ZTE
  (188-F-86)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Page, ZTE	2.2
2. Tamane, MKB Eurol.	1.4
3. Cvetanovic, Szolnok	1.4
4. McCoughtry, MKB E.	1.4
5. Ievtushenko, Atome.	1.3
6. Griffin, Pecs 2010	1.0
7. Pap, Cegledi EKK	0.9
8. Bagi, BEAC	0.9
9. Czukor, ZTE	0.8
10. Kublina, SEAT L.	0.8

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IRELAND - Women

Standings - Women

Superleague Standings

1. Montenotte		7-0
2. UL Aughinish		4-1
3. Mercy		4-3
4. Wildcats		3-2
5. Dynamos		3-3
6. Killester		1-7
7. Meteors		0-6

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ISRAEL - Women

Standings (W)

D1 Standings

1. Elitzur Ramla		14-1
2. Electra Ramat		11-4
3. Maccabi Ashdod		10-5
4. Ramat Hen		10-5
5. H.R. Le-Zion		9-6
6. Raanana Her.		8-7
7. Elitzur Netanya		6-8
8. Elitzur Holon		3-12
9. Elitzur R.Le-Zion		3-12
10. Hapoel T-A		0-14

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LATVIA - Women

Standings - LSBL

LSBL Standings

1. TTT Riga		15-0
2. LU		13-3
3. RTU-Merks		12-4
4. TTT Juniores		8-7
5. TTT Kadetes		8-9
6. Daugavpils		4-12
7. Liepajas		2-13
8. Cesis		1-15

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 21

1. Krastina, LU	21.0
2. Hollingswort., TTT R.	18.4
3. Krumberga, TTT R.	17.6
4. Jakobsone, Cesis	17.1
5. Lisnere, Cesis	16.4
6. Teilane, RTU-Merks	15.4
7. Surkusa, TTT J.	15.1
8. Butler, TTT Riga	14.5
9. Egle, Daugavpils	14.0
10. Karklina, TTT Riga	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Anita TEILANE
  Satu Mare
  (196-C-85)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Teilane, RTU-Merks	11.3
2. Surkusa, TTT J.	11.3
3. Lisnere, Cesis	10.4
4. Hollingswort., TTT R.	10.2
5. Butler, TTT Riga	9.5
6. Lagzdina, TTT J.	9.4
7. Veidere, TTT K.	8.7
8. Pavlovska, RTU-M.	8.3
9. Zarina, LU	8.1
10. Zdanovska, Liepajas	8.0

Assists Per Game

Anda EIBELE
  TTT Riga
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 6.2

1. Eibele, TTT Riga	6.2
2. Zellous, TTT Riga	4.7
3. Krastina, LU	4.1
4. Jevsejeva, Dauga.	3.9
5. Karklina, TTT Riga	3.3
6. Neimane, TTT J.	3.0
7. Butler, TTT Riga	3.0
8. Kazakevica, Dauga.	2.9
9. Staugaitiene, TTT R.	2.8
10. Bridina, TTT K.	2.8

Steals Per Game

Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Krastina, LU	4.3
2. Karklina, TTT Riga	3.0
3. Zellous, TTT Riga	3.0
4. Eibele, TTT Riga	2.9
5. Butler, TTT Riga	2.9
6. Kazakevica, Dauga.	2.6
7. Zeltina, Cesis	2.6
8. Bridina, TTT K.	2.6
9. Krumberga, TTT R.	2.5
10. Briede, Cesis	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Ruta VEIDERE
  TTT Kadetes
  (188-C-94)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Veidere, TTT K.	3.4
2. Teilane, RTU-Merks	3.4
3. Surkusa, TTT J.	2.1
4. Hollingswort., TTT R.	1.7
5. Zellous, TTT Riga	1.3
6. Teilane, TTT J.	1.0
7. Egle, Daugavpils	0.9
8. Lisnere, Cesis	0.9
9. Nimane, TTT Riga	0.9
10. Butler, TTT Riga	0.7

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MALTA - Women

Standings - Women

Div.1 Standings

1. Depiro		8-1
2. Luxol		8-1
3. Hibs Medsea		7-2
4. Loyola		5-4
5. Athleta		4-5
6. St.Andrews		3-6
7. Starlites		2-7
8. Guzelpinar		0-9

Top trio march on in womens league - by Eurobasket News
Depiro McDonalds softened the disappointment of their loss to Alyssa Ashley Loyola in the Detur Shield semi-finals when they had the better of the same opponents in a league match last weekend.

Luxol are level with Depiro on 13 points at the top after an easy win over Starlites Sports Experience and Hibs Medsea stayed in touch with the leaders after beating Athleta.

Taking advantage of the absence of Loyolas best player, Christine Grima, Depiro were in control from the jumpball. They all but made sure of victory in the first quarter as they took a 25-point lead, 32-7.

After changing ends 47-13 in front, Depiro strolled to a comfortable 93-37 victory.

The gulf between the leading three teams and the rest was reflected by Luxols 71-42 defeat of Starlites. Luxol were on top from the first quarter. With Steffi Demartino in fine form, Luxol led 36-15 at half-time. They continued to dictate matters after the interval to win at a canter.

Boosted by the return of pivot Maria Desira, Hibs were never troubled by Athleta. The game had a slow start as the score at half-time testifies... 14-8 in Hibs favour.

But, champions Hibs upped their tempo in the third to put the game beyond Athleta as they coasted to a 47-28 win.

Meanwhile, St Andrews left Mtarfa still searching for their first victory.

The opening two quarters were somewhat balanced with the Saints changing ends 28-21 ahead.

They continued to hold a slight edge to increase their advantage to 48-32 for the last quarter. Hard as they tried, Mtarfa could not close the gap as St Andrews won with an 18-point margin, 60-42.

Standings: Depiro 13 (6-1); Luxol 13 (6-1); Hibs 12 (5-2); Loyola 10 (3-4); Athleta 9 (2-5); Starlites 8 (1-6); Mtarfa 7 (0-7).

Top scorers: Kaila Agius (183-C-84) (Depiro) 186; Lucienne Bezzina (174-F-79) (Hibs) 163; Leanne Sciberras (189-F-90) (Athleta) 140.

Next fixture: Sunday, Detur Shield final 16.15 Loyola vs Hibs.
Courtesy of: http://www.timesofmalta.com

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MONTENEGRO - Women

WABA - Important wiin for Jedinstvo in derby game - by Dragan Scepanovic
JEDINSTVO B.Polje - PARTIZAN GALENIKA Belgrade 83:63 (17:10, 15:16, 26:19, 15:18)
B.Polje.SC 'Nikoljac. Spectators: around 1,000. Judges: Sutulovic, Savovic, Radinovic (Montenegro).
JEDINSTVO : Knezevic 14, Bigovic 2, Burdzovic, Popovic 9 (1-1), Lazovic, Zlajic, Garcevic 11, Djordjevic 21 (8-8), Mujovic, Brankica Hadzovic (175-G-81) 23 (3-2), Zivana Jankovic (174-G-83) 3 (2-1) ,Rakovic.
PARTIZAN GALENIKA: Beronja 2, Vuckovic 1 (2-1), Stoun, Bucevac, Dajana Butulija (175-G-86) 18 (5-2), Radic 2, Prcic, Dangubic 4, Karakasevic 7 (2-1), Jankovic 8 (4-4), Mur 2, Milica Dabovic (175-G-82) 19 (4-3).

WMNE1A 6 Round : easy win for Buducnost and Roling - by Dragan Scepanovic
Primorje - Buducnost Podgorica 24:73 (7:15, 9:18, 4:20, 4:20)
H.Novi .SC in Igalo. Spectators: 50 Judges: Predrag Kovacevic (Podgorica), Suzana Vujicic (Herceg Novi).
PRIMORJE : Jovanov, S. Dabovic, Bigovic , Novak, J. Dabovic, Kekic 3 (6-3), Gardasevic 3, Ratkovic 10 (3-2), Kozic , Varezic, Milinic 8 (3-2), Roganovic.
PODGORICA: Grnovic 4, Caricic, Perunovic 6, Raickovic, Marija Vujadinovic (175-G-90) 20 (7-7), Mugosa, Sofranac, A. Dabovic 14 (10-5), Katnic 14 (5-3), Milica Milosev (185-F-93) 13 (4-3) , Franovic 2, Sekulic.
Guests from Podgorica with ease have mastered the local Primorje.

Rolling - Rudar 51:41 (18:10, 12:7, 12:8, 9:16)
Niksic.Hall Sports Centre. Spectators: around 50 Judges: Pantovic and G. Vojinovic (both from Niksic).
ROLING : Music, Cabarkapa, Masa Stanisic (172-G-91) 5, Baletic, Vucic 11 (2-1), Subotic, Krivokapic 9 (3-1), Orbovic 13 (2-1), Kalac 13 (3-3).
RUDAR: Perunicic, Draskovic 7 (2-1), Potparic 4 (2-2), Gajevic 7 (2-1), Lazarevic, Beljkas 2 (1-0), Stijepovic, Sokovic 5 (2-0), Puric , Spajic 6 (2-2), Sljukic 10 (2-2).

Standings - Women League

Superleague Standings

1. Buducnost		5-1
2. Heceg Novi		4-1
3. Jedinstvo II		4-1
4. Roling Niksic		2-4
5. Rudar		2-4
6. Primorje		0-6
Play in international cups:
1. Jedinstvo BP		-

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NAIA - Women

Union and Oklahoma City remain undefeated - by Eurobasket News
The top-ranked Union stayed perfect in the season. They recorded the 20th win at the weekend. The Lady Bulldogs outscored Blue Mountain 79:43. Union recorded a 51:23 halftime lead and never looked back en route to another victory. Sarah Chan came up with 26 points and 13 boards to lead the Lady Bulldogs. Kayla Hudson (5'8''-G) delivered 14 points in the victory. Joy Pierce responded with 17 points for Blue Mountain as they slipped at 4-13 record.
The third-ranked Campbellsville prevailed against 20th-ranked Cumberlands 73:60 in another exciting weekend clash. Whitney Ballinger (6'1''-G-89) knocked down 19 points to lead the effort. The Lady Tigers improved at 15-2 record on the season. Courtney Danis contributed 15 points for the winners. Cumberlands responded with 16 points from Lauren Wombles (6'0''-G/F).
Westminster held off Lewis-Clark State 88:59 in another game between Top 20 sides. Brooke Larsen (5'11''-F) stepped up with 15 points to lead the 13th-ranked Westminster to the 17th win in the season. Nicole Yazzie added 14 points for the Griffins. Alyssa Fierro responded with 14 points, 12 boards and 7 blocks for the Warriors.
Oklahoma City posted their 17th straight win as they trounced St. Gregorys 95:35. Lauren Gober (6'1''-F) notched 24 points to pace the effort. Starr Fairbanks (6'2''-C) added 13 points in the win.

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NCAA1 - Women

Kirsten Jeter's impressive performance rewarded - by George Fragkos
Stony Brook University senior forward Kirsten Jeter (5'10''-F-89) (Elmont, N.Y/Elmont), a unanimous preseason all-America East selection, has garnered her first America East Player of the Week of the season after a strong three-game span in which she filled up the stat sheet. Picking up the Rookie of the Week award again is freshman guard Ashleigh Roberts (5'9''-G) (Wilmington, Del./Concord) from Maine, her fourth such honor of the season.

In a three-game week, Jeter averaged a league-high 22.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.0 steals and 2.7 assists per game while shooting .587 (27-of-46) from the field. Her best effort of the week came in the finale on Sunday at Maine where she recorded her third double-double of the season with a career-high 28 points and 10 rebounds to go along with four assists and four steals.

Earlier in the week against Albany, Jeter scored 23 points with 9-of-16 field-goal shooting and 2-of-3 shooting from beyond the arc. In a midweek game against first-place Boston U., Jeter finished with 17 points, six rebounds and three steals. She has now scored 20 or more points in three of her last four games.

Jeter continues to lead all active America East players in career points, rebounds and steals, while averaging 13.6 ppg, 6.9 rpg and 2.9 spg during her senior campaign.

Roberts garners her fourth rookie award of the season with a two-game week in which she averaged 15.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. She extended her double-digit scoring streak to eleven games, and notched her 200th career point on Sunday against Stony Brook.

At Vermont on Thursday, Roberts finished with 17 points, eight rebounds and two steals with 8-for-14 shooting from the field. Back at home on Sunday against the Seawolves, the rookie was one board shy of a double-double with 14 points and nine rebounds. Roberts went 10-for-13 from the line against Stony Brook.

Roberts is 12th in the league averaging 10.7 ppg this season and is the only freshman in the league's top 20. She also ranks 10th in America East with .689 free-throw shooting on the season.

Courtesy: America East Communications

MEAC Weekly Honors announced - by George Fragkos
Florida A&M forward Antonia Bennett (6'1''-G/F) was named the MEAC Player of the Week, the conference announced Monday. Hampton's Nicole Hamilton-Carter (6'2''-C-92) received Rookie of the Week honors, while Delaware St.'s Brittany Washington (6'1''-F/C-89) earned Defensive Player of the Week accolades.

Bennett (Guard/Forward, 6-0, Jr. Lakeland, Florida) averaged 21.0 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists to aid her team to a 2-0 record last week. In an 80-75 win over Howard, Bennett tied her career-mark of 27 points while shooting 4-of-9 from the 3-point range. She recorded a double-double (15 points, 11 rebounds) against Delaware St. adding three assists, three steals and one block in the 66-56 victory.

Hamilton (Guard, 5-8, Fr., Hampton, Virginia) averaged 20.0 points for the Lady Pirates last week as they went 1-1 against North Carolina A&T and Bethune-Cookman. She recorded a career-high 23 points went 7-for-16 from the floor and 6-of-8 from the free-throw line against North Carolina A&T. Hamilton also grabbed five rebounds and stole five passes in the victory. She finished the week with 40 points, 10 rebounds, six steals and one block.

Washington (Forward/Center, 6-2, Sr., Upper Marlboro, Maryland) totaled 22 rebounds, four blocks, two steals and one assist in two games for the Lady Hornets. Against Florida A&M Washington grabbed 13 boards, blocked two shots and stole one pass. Following her FAMU performance, she recorded nine rebounds, two blocks and one steal against Delaware St..

Other Top Performers:

Jasmine Daniels (5'6''-G-89) (B-CU) posted 11 points, four rebounds, four assists and added one steal in a 55-51 conference win over Hampton.

Jasmine Grice (5'9''-G) (FAMU) averaged 12.0 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.0 assists in two games for the Lady Rattlers.

Saadia Doyle (5'11''-F) (How) recorded 26 points and 13 rebounds against Florida A&M.

Casey Morton (5'9''-G-89) (UMES) scored a career-high 26 points in a 66-56 win against Coppin State.

Kwinnyata Mercer (5'8''-G/F) (UMES) combined for 29 points and 10 rebounds in three games for the Lady Hawks.

Jaquayla Berry (5'11''-G) (NCAT) posted 31 points and 10 steals in a 94-71 win over South Carolina State.

Courtesy: MEAC Media Relations

Britni Martin wins her second Soutland Weekly Award - by George Fragkos
Sam Houston St. junior forward Britni Martin (6'0''-F) was named the Southland women's basketball player of the week by vote of the league's sports information directors the conference announced Monday. The award marks Martin's second of the season, joining Lamar sophomore Kalis Loyd and Central Arkansas sophomore Megan Herbert as the only Southland players with two weekly awards this year.

A native of Conroe, Texas, Martin led the Bearkats in two home wins over Texas State and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Playing in 72 of a possible 80 minutes, Martin scored 45 points and hit 10 three-pointers with 14 rebounds and 12 assists. The win over A&M-Corpus Christi is the first against the Islanders since they joined the Southland in 2006. In the win over Texas State, Sam Houston extended its conference start to 5-0 for just the second time in the school's 24 years in the Southland.

Honorable mention this week goes to Stephen F. Austin senior forward Jordan Ford (5'10''-F-89) and UTSA junior guard/forward Ashley Gardner (6'0''-G/F). To receive honorable mention, a player must receive votes from 25 percent of the Southland women's basketball sports information directors.

Each school's SID nominates and votes for the players of the week, though is not permitted to vote for his or her own player.

Courtesy: Southland.org

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PORTUGAL - Women

Standings - Women

Liga Feminina Standings

1. Quinta		14-2
2. CAB Madeira		14-2
3. AD Vagos		12-3
4. Boa Viagem		10-7
5. Alges		9-7
6. Olivais		8-7
7. CDTN		7-9
8. GDESSA		5-11
9. Academico		5-11
10. Barcelos		3-13
11. Uniao Micaelense		1-16

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RUSSIA - Women

Marina Kuzina gets MVP of the Week award for Russian PBL - by Eurobasket News
Former international center Marina Kuzina (195-C-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for Dynamo Moscow and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 25-year old center had the game-high 35 points adding nine rebounds and three assists for Dynamo Moscow in her team's victory, helping them to edge out Dynamo-GUVD (#7, 5-8) in overtime 72-68. Dynamo Moscow is placed at 6th position in Russian PBL. Dynamo Moscow 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 Kuzina had a remarkable four three-pointers out of 8 attempts. She has many years of experience at Dynamo Moscow, through which he has constantly improved. Kuzina has impressive league stats. She is in league's top in points (8th best: 15.0ppg) and averages solid 1.4bpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old forward Olga Ovcharenko (184-F-79) of Nadezhda Orenburg. Ovcharenko impressed basketball fans with 27 points and 3 rebounds. Bad luck as Nadezhda Orenburg was edged in overtime by slightly higher-ranked Spartak V MR (#2, 10-2) 81-80. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Nadezhda Orenburg still maintains its place in the top 3 of the standings, even despite this loss. Her team's 9-4 record is not bad at all. Ovcharenko is one of the most experienced players at Nadezhda Orenburg and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was Tatiana Sergeeva (197-C-82) of Spartak Noginsk (#10). Sergeeva scored 14 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Sergeeva's great performance Spartak Noginsk lost 69-81 to the higher-ranked Dynamo K. (#4, 8-5). But her team cannot count on just a single player as she also needs help of the other teammates. Spartak Noginsk can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-12 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Sergeeva she does not play for a better team. But maybe if she did, her season stats would not be that high. Sergeeva has a very solid season. In 13 games in Russia she scored 6.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jennifer Lacy (191-F/C-83) of Spartak SP - 23 points and 15 rebounds
5. Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82) of Dynamo Kursk - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Natalya Myasoedova (192-C-87) of Dynamo-GUVD - 14 points and 15 rebounds
7. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) of Dynamo-GUVD - 18 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists
8. Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) of UMMC - 17 points and 8 rebounds
9. Deanna Nolan (180-G/F-79) of UMMC - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Tina Charles (193-C-88) of Nadezhda O. - 20 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)

Zuzana Zirkova heads to UMMC - by Eurobasket News
According to few sources Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) heads to UMMC. The Slovakian 175cm player leaves Dobri Anjeli and will sign with the Russian Champions.
Zuzana Zirkova is a well-known name in Slovakia and around the world. This year she recorded 29 points in the start of EuroLeague campaign when Cras Basket Taranto grabbed the first victory at the EuroLeague season this year as they edged Good Angels Kosice at home. The Italian side needed a 74:59 win for 1-0 record. Zirkova ended up with 29 points in the losing effort and Dupree had 7 points and 12 rebounds.
Almost for the whole career Zuzana Zirkova played for Gambrinus Sika Brno. Together with the team she reached Euroleague Quarterfinals -07, Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 1st Team -07, Eurobasket.com Czech Rep. D1 All-Imports Team -07, Eurobasket.com Czech Rep. D1 All-Bosmans Team -07, 09, Eurobasket.com All-Europe Honorable Mention 2007, Eurobasket.com All-Europeans 2nd Team 2007, Czech Rep. D1 Finalist -09, Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 Honorable Mention -09. Moreover for the National team she averaged massive 15.1ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.6apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 39.3%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 100.0% during Qualifications to European Championships 2009. At the European Championships in Latvia -09 after 9 games she had 15.2ppg, 3.9rpg, 3.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 83.3%. This year she became Slovakian Extraliga Cup Winner -11. Her Dobri anjeli Kosice won the Cup as the team was better than any other team in Final Eight. In the Final game the favorites overcame Whirlpool Poprad 96:55 taking 27-10 lead after the first 10 minutes. In the next three quarters Anjeli proved the difference and clinched the victory to start year 2011 with the trophy.

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SLOVAKIA - Women

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SLOVENIA - Women

Standings - Women

SKL Standings

1. Merkur Celje		15-2
2. Hit K.Gora		14-0
3. AJM Maribor		11-4
4. Ilrija		10-4
5. Jezica		8-7
6. Triglav		7-7
7. GVT Konjice		6-8
8. Odeja KED		4-10
9. Grosuplje		4-11
10. Kozmetika Afr.		1-14
11. Domzale		0-13

Jezica close on League Play-Off spot - by Zeljko Zule
Jezica moved a major step closer to clinching a League PlayOff spot tonight, beating GVT Konjice for the second time this season with a 70-59 home victory in the last game of Week 15. Jasmina Hatic (176-F-89) scored game-high 23 points, Ajda Gabrovsek added 13, Eva Rupnik 11 and Kristina Pavli 10. Jezica outscored the visiting team by 11 points in the third quarter to go ahead 53-39. Jezica was 7-of-14 on 3-point attempts, while Konjice hit just 1-of-11. Ziva Bozicevic finished with 14 points, Nina Srot added 13 and Katja Klancnik 12.

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SWEDEN - Women

Stats Leaders - Damligan

Points Per Game

Brittany SMART
  Kvarnby
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 24.5

1. Smart, Kvarnby	24.5
2. Saunders, Visby	21.5
3. Key, Marbo Basket	19.2
4. Ferm, Eos	19.1
5. Zahui, Telge	16.9
6. Glaser, Kvarnby	16.9
7. Abdi, 08	15.8
8. Frieson, Kvarnby	15.6
9. Tattersdill, Sallen	15.4
10. Andersson, Solna V.	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

Amanda ZAHUI
  Telge
  (191-C-93)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Zahui, Telge	10.6
2. Tattersdill, Sallen	9.9
3. Frieson, Kvarnby	9.2
4. Brown, Visby	8.7
5. Smart, Kvarnby	8.4
6. Scott, Lulea BBK	8.3
7. Bacon, Solna Vikings	8.2
8. Gustavsson, Brahe	8.1
9. Forsman-Goga, Tel.	8.0
10. Glaser, Kvarnby	7.4

Assists Per Game

Brittany SMART
  Kvarnby
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 4.1

1. Smart, Kvarnby	4.1
2. Johansen, Sallen	4.1
3. Kucukkaya, Telge	3.9
4. Kabengano, Telge	3.9
5. Rivero, Kvarnby	3.6
6. Persson, Brahe	3.4
7. Saunders, Visby	3.3
8. Kjelsson, 08	3.2
9. Brooks, Solna Vikings	3.1
10. Gultekin, Solna V.	3.0

Steals Per Game

Anette JOHANSEN
  08
  (176-F-82)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Johansen, Sallen	4.3
2. Brooks, Solna Vikings	3.5
3. Key, Marbo Basket	2.9
4. Aili, Lulea BBK	2.5
5. Nekmouche, Sallen	2.5
6. Forsman-Goga, Tel.	2.4
7. Otamiri, Eos	2.3
8. Rivero, Kvarnby	2.3
9. Ausmann, Eos	2.2
10. Abdi, 08	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Katarina ANDERSSON
  Solna Vikings
  (191-C-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Andersson, Solna V.	2.1
2. Cesnaviciute, Visby	1.8
3. Zahui, Telge	1.5
4. Frieson, Kvarnby	1.2
5. Stjarnstroem, Norrko.	1.1
6. Scott, Lulea BBK	0.9
7. Smart, Kvarnby	0.9
8. Forsman-Goga, Tel.	0.8
9. Grahn, Lulea BBK	0.7
10. Glaser, Kvarnby	0.7

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SWITZERLAND - Women

LNSA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mariesa GREENE
  Pully
  (183-F-)
  Avg: 32.6

1. Greene, Pully	32.6
2. Trahan, Fribourg	28.3
3. Diouf, Pully	26.9
4. Villarroel, Helios	25.9
5. Edwards, Riva B.	25.4
6. Bowman, Riva B.	25.1
7. Sissoko, Helios	24.1
8. Yanni, Basel	19.6
9. Griffith, Highflyers	18.9
10. Skouby, Basel	18.6

Rebounds Per Game

Mariesa GREENE
  Pully
  (183-F-)
  Avg: 18.4

1. Greene, Pully	18.4
2. Trahan, Fribourg	15.5
3. Sissoko, Helios	12.2
4. Klimowicz, Nyon	11.3
5. Hamlin, Highflyers	10.7
6. Bowman, Riva B.	10.6
7. Skouby, Basel	10.5
8. Edwards, Riva B.	10.4
9. Griffith, Highflyers	9.1
10. Villarroel, Helios	7.1

Assists Per Game

Diodio DIOUF
  Pully
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Diouf, Pully	6.4
2. Villarroel, Helios	4.8
3. Yanni, Basel	3.8
4. Heckendorn, Basel	3.7
5. Greene, Pully	3.6
6. Dorestand, Highf.	3.1
7. Annibale, Riva Basket	3.0
8. Gur, Nyon	2.9
9. Sakica, Highflyers	2.7
10. Martin, Pully	2.5

Steals Per Game

Mariesa GREENE
  Pully
  (183-F-)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Greene, Pully	4.7
2. Diouf, Pully	4.4
3. Villarroel, Helios	4.1
4. Gur, Nyon	3.6
5. Trahan, Fribourg	3.4
6. Kershaw, Helios	3.3
7. Edwards, Riva B.	3.2
8. Sissoko, Helios	3.1
9. Klimowicz, Nyon	3.1
10. Mazzocchi, Fribo.	3.1

Blocks Per Game

Hillary KLIMOWICZ
  Nyon
  (191-F/C-87)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Klimowicz, Nyon	4.3
2. Bowman, Riva B.	1.7
3. Hamlin, Highflyers	1.7
4. Edwards, Riva B.	1.6
5. Skouby, Basel	1.3
6. Favre, Nyon	1.2
7. Trahan, Fribourg	1.1
8. Yanni, Basel	1.0
9. Griffith, Highflyers	0.8
10. Greene, Pully	0.8

LNA Round 14: No surprise as #1 Helios defeat Highflyers - by Eurobasket News
LNA top team - Helios (14-0) had no problems winning another game on Sunday. This time they crushed sixth ranked Highflyers (4-10) in Luzern 96-41. The game was mostly controlled by Helios. Highflyers managed to win second period 13-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Highflyers to just 3 points in third and fourth quarters. Helios dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Highflyers' 26 and made 21-of-24 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game. Helios forced 32 Highflyers turnovers. Venezuelan guard Maria Villarroel (174-78, college: Oklahoma, agency: LBM Management) scored 28 points and 8 rebounds (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and Mali power forward Djenebou Sissoko (190-82, college: Union (TN)) chipped in 25 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Barbados swingman Jamila Griffith (183-82, college: Md-Eastern Shore) responded with 17 points and 5 rebounds. Highflyers' coach Christoph Lotscher gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Undefeated Helios have an impressive fourteen-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 14-0 record. Newly promoted Highflyers keep the sixth place with ten games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The game in Bernex supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Riva Basket (9-5) played at the court of 8th ranked Hope-GBA (1-13). Riva Basket smashed Hope-GBA 70-46. American power forward Traci Edwards (188-87, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee, agency: LBM Management) notched a double-double by scoring 39 points (!!!), 16 rebounds and 4 blocks to lead the effort and Brittany Wilkins supported her with 18 points and 16 rebounds. Even 16 points and 4 steals by guard Dorothee Studer (168-92) did not help to save the game for Hope-GBA. Hope-GBA's coach Billy Karageorgakis already knew that her team would not have a big chance, so allowed to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Riva Basket has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 9-5 record having five points less than leader Helios, which they share with Pully. Hope-GBA lost eighth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom place with 13 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

In the last two games of round 14 Nyon was destroyed by Fribourg on the opponent's court 74-48. Pully managed to outperform Basel in a home game 85-80.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 37 points (!!!), 32 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals by Mariesa Greene of Pully.

Highflyers - Helios 41-96

LNA top team - Helios (14-0) had no problems winning another game on Sunday. This time they crushed sixth ranked Highflyers (4-10) in Luzern 96-41. The game was mostly controlled by Helios. Highflyers managed to win second period 13-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Highflyers to just 3 points in third and fourth quarters. Helios dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Highflyers' 26 and made 21-of-24 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game. Helios forced 32 Highflyers turnovers. Venezuelan guard Maria Villarroel (174-78, college: Oklahoma, agency: LBM Management) scored 28 points and 8 rebounds (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and Mali power forward Djenebou Sissoko (190-82, college: Union (TN)) chipped in 25 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Helios players scored in double figures. Barbados swingman Jamila Griffith (183-82, college: Md-Eastern Shore) responded with 17 points and 5 rebounds and American power forward JoAnn Hamlin (191-86, college: Iowa) scored 6 points and 8 rebounds. Highflyers' coach Christoph Lotscher gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Helios have an impressive fourteen-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 14-0 record. Newly promoted Highflyers keep the sixth place with ten games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Helios: M.Villarroel 28+8reb+3ast, D.Sissoko 25+8reb+2ast, C.Turin 22+2reb+4ast, F.Cochand 11+3reb+1ast, J.Michaux 8+1reb+1ast, S.Kershaw 2+3reb+3ast
Highflyers: J.Griffith 17+5reb, V.Dorestand 8+2reb+1ast, J.Hamlin 6+8reb+2ast, L.Marie Lavanchy 4, V.Sakica 3+8reb+1ast, V.Sakica 3+3reb+5ast

Fribourg - Nyon 74-48

Very expected game when 7th ranked Nyon (2-12) was crushed on the road by second ranked Fribourg (11-3) 74-48. The game was mostly controlled by Fribourg. Nyon managed to win fourth quarter 17-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Nyon to just 7 points in third quarter. Fribourg dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Nyon's 30. Fribourg forced 37 Nyon turnovers. American center Celeste Trahan (184-85, college: Elizabeth City, agency: LBM Management) notched a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds to lead the effort and guard Lara Thalmann (172-88) supported her with 13 points and 6 steals. Four Fribourg players scored in double figures. Fribourg's coach Romain Gaspoz felt very confident using entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even a double-double of 27 points, 19 rebounds and 6 blocks by American power forward Hillary Klimowicz (191-87, college: TCNJ) did not help to save the game for Nyon. Guard Natacha Berrut-Marechaud (165-91) added 9 points for the guests. Fribourg maintains second position with 11-3 record having just three points less than leader Helios. Nyon at the other side keeps the seventh place with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Fribourg: C.Trahan 18+13reb, L.Thalmann 13+3reb+1ast, P.Winkler 10+2reb+1ast, L.Mazzocchi 10+2reb, L.Diederich 9+4reb, M.Milenkovic 4+2ast
Nyon: H.Klimowicz 27+19reb, N.Berrut-Marechaud 9+2reb+3ast, J.Mullauer 4+2reb, M.Favre 4+1ast, R.Durand 2+3reb, A.Girardet 2+1reb+1ast

Hope-GBA - Riva Basket 46-70

The game in Bernex supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Riva Basket (9-5) played at the court of 8th ranked Hope-GBA (1-13). Riva Basket smashed Hope-GBA 70-46. The game was mostly controlled by Riva Basket. Hope-GBA managed to win third quarter 18-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Hope-GBA to just 7 points in first quarter. Riva Basket dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Hope-GBA's 32. Riva Basket forced 25 Hope-GBA turnovers and outrebounded them 39-26 including 25 on the defensive glass. American power forward Traci Edwards (188-87, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee, agency: LBM Management) notched a double-double by scoring 39 points (!!!), 16 rebounds and 4 blocks to lead the effort and the other American import power forward Brittany Wilkins (191-83, college: Iowa St., agency: LBM Management) supported her with 18 points and 16 rebounds. Even 16 points and 4 steals by guard Dorothee Studer (168-92) did not help to save the game for Hope-GBA. Power forward Anissa Toumi (182-92) added 8 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts. Hope-GBA's coach Billy Karageorgakis already knew that her team would not have a big chance, so allowed to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Riva Basket has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 9-5 record having five points less than leader Helios, which they share with Pully. Hope-GBA lost eighth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom place with 13 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Riva Basket: T.Edwards 39+16reb+1ast, B.Wilkins 18+16reb+2ast, E.Himaj 9+1reb+2ast, L.Bordoli 2, L.Travaini 2+2reb, J.Jakab 0+3reb+1ast
Hope-GBA: D.Studer 16+4reb+3ast, A.Toumi 8+6reb+1ast, A.Rieder 7+4reb+1ast, E.Broch 5+2reb+1ast, N.Kane 4+1reb, S.Cavin 3+3reb+2ast

Pully - Basel 85-80

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fourth ranked Pully's (9-5) home victory over 5th ranked Basel (6-8) 85-80. Basel was ahead by 19 points after three quarters before a 33-9 charge of Pully, which allowed them to win the game. They outrebounded Basel 58-43 including 23 on the offensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists. American forward Mariesa Greene (183, college: Barry) notched a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!), 32 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals to lead the effort and Senegalese guard Diodio Diouf (170-84) supported her with 29 points and 10 assists. Pully's coach Jean Fernandez allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Even a double-double of 24 points and 14 rebounds by American center Megan Skouby (193-86, college: Iowa) did not help to save the game for Basel. Her fellow American import forward Aminata-Imgrueth Yanni (183-82, college: Illinois) added 20 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the guests. Four Basel players scored in double figures. Pully moved-up to third place, which they share with Riva Basket. Basel lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Pully: M.Greene 37+32reb+7ast, D.Diouf 29+4reb+10ast, L.Martin 7+4reb+3ast, M.Schmied 6+10reb+2ast, T.Pajunovic 2+2reb, C.Michaux 2+2reb
Basel: M.Skouby 24+14reb+1ast, A.Yanni 20+7reb+6ast, J.Campo 12+3reb+4ast, M.Heckendorn 12+9reb+4ast, E.Moldovanyi 5+6reb, N.Girod 3+3reb+2ast

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WNBA - Women

Dream signs coach-GM Meadors to contract extension - by Eurobasket News
The Atlanta Dream have signed coach and general manager Marynell Meadors to a contract extension through 2013 after she guided the team to a spot in the WNBA finals last season.

The Dream also announced Monday that assistant coaches Carol Ross and Fred Williams will be returning to the team. They signed extensions through 2012.

Team president Toby Wyman says it was ''one of our top priorities'' to keep the coaching staff together after they led the Dream to a second straight playoff appearance. Atlanta was swept in the final by Seattle.

Courtesy of www.accessnorthga.com