EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/5/2011 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ANGOLA   


Sergio Correia joins Alges - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Correia (197-F-85) joins Alges to help the team to better their position in the standings. The Angolan player erupted with 13 points and 18 rebounds but it was not enough as the gguests from Torres Vedras outscored Alges 68-40. Fisica dominated on the defensive end, holding Alges to just 6 points in second quarter. They held Alges to an opponent 23.5 percent shooting from the field compared to 39.7 percent accuracy of the winners. Fisica forced 24 Alges turnovers and outrebounded them 42-31 including 31 on the defensive glass. Alges will play against Terceira Basket (#8) in Angra Heroismo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Before that Sergio Correia started for Alges/Tecnitema (Proliga) in 2004 and after 27 games had 11.3ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.1apg,2FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 28.0%. Later his teams were Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves (Portugal-Proliga): 35 games: 10.8ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.4spg, FG: 44.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.6%, Casino Figueira Ginasio (Portugal-UZO Liga): 20 games: 4.6ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0spg, 2008-2009: Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves (Portugal-UZO Liga, starting five): 21 games: 7.6ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 14.5%, FT: 75.0%, Inter-Clube de Luanda (D1, starting five)



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


Worthington's 33-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old forward Mark Worthington (202-F-83) 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 12.
He had the game-high 33 points adding eight rebounds for Blaze as his team was edged out by Wildcats (#2, 10-4) 96-93. Blaze moved-up to the 7th position in the Australian league. Blaze is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. But it was their 8th lost game this season out of 13 games. In the team's last game Worthington had a remarkable 83.3% from 2-point range. He turned to be Blaze's top player in his first season with the team. Metropolitan State College of Denver graduate has very impressive stats this year. Worthington is in league's top in points (4th best: 17.4ppg) and averages solid 51.4% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Corey Williams (191-G-77) of Tigers. He is Jamaican-American guard in his first season at Tigers. In the last game Williams recorded impressive triple-double of 12 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists. Of course he lead Tigers to another comfortable win outscoring slightly higher-ranked 36ers (#6, 5-8) 87-66. Tigers' 8th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-9 record. Williams is a newcomer at Tigers and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.8ppg (#5). His other stats are also decent: 7.6rpg and 5.1apg.

Third place about best performers goes to center Julian Khazzouh (211-C-86) of Sydney Kings (#9). Khazzouh scored 16 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Khazzouh's great performance Sydney Kings lost 78-91 to the higher-ranked Wildcats (#2, 10-4). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Sydney Kings can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-13 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Khazzouh he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Khazzouh has individually a great season in Australia. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.2ppg (6th best) and rebounds with 10.8rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Luke Nevill (218-C-86) of Tigers - 23 points and 5 rebounds
5. Russell Hinder (208-F/C-79) of Crocodiles - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Ira Clark (203-C/F-75) of Blaze - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Brad Hill (198-G/F-86) of 36ers - 15 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Eddie Shannon (180-G-77) of 36ers - 23 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Kevin Braswell (188-G-79) of Breakers - 32 points and 2 assists
10. Luke Schenscher (216-C-82) of Crocodiles - 13 points, 9 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)

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Gary ERVIN
  Hawks
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 22.7
 1. Ervin, Hawks22.7 
 2. Redhage, Wildcats19.1 
 3. Penney, Breakers18.5 
 4. Worthington, Blaze17.4 
 5. Williams, Tigers16.8 
 6. Khazzouh, Sydney K.16.2 
 7. Ubaka, Taipans15.6 
 8. Clark, Blaze14.9 
 9. Devendorf, Tigers14.8 
 10. Sanders, Sydney K.14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.10.8 
 2. Holmes, 36ers8.2 
 3. Nevill, Tigers7.9 
 4. Davidson, Hawks7.8 
 5. Williams, Tigers7.6 
 6. Vukona, Breakers7.3 
 7. Knight, Wildcats7.1 
 8. Forman, Hawks6.9 
 9. Schenscher, Croco.6.5 
 10. Freeman, Croco.6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Corey WILLIAMS
  Tigers
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Williams, Tigers5.1 
 2. Carter, 36ers4.9 
 3. Ervin, Hawks4.9 
 4. Gibson, Blaze4.8 
 5. Saville, Hawks4.7 
 6. Shannon, 36ers4.6 
 7. Braswell, Breakers4.0 
 8. Ubaka, Taipans3.8 
 9. DeVries, 36ers3.4 
 10. Blalock, Crocodiles2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Martin, Wildcats1.8 
 2. Saville, Hawks1.7 
 3. Penney, Breakers1.6 
 4. Crawford, Croco.1.6 
 5. Gilder, Sydney K.1.5 
 6. Gibson, Blaze1.3 
 7. Khazzouh, Sydney K.1.3 
 8. Williams, Tigers1.3 
 9. Shannon, 36ers1.2 
 10. Tovey, Wildcats1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Gary ERVIN
  Hawks
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 1.1
 1. Ervin, Hawks1.1 
 2. Williams, Tigers1.0 
 3. Khazzouh, Sydney K.0.9 
 4. Devendorf, Tigers0.9 
 5. Redhage, Wildcats0.9 
 6. Weigh, Wildcats0.9 
 7. Penney, Breakers0.8 
 8. Hudson, Blaze0.8 
 9. Knight, Wildcats0.8 
 10. Sanders, Sydney K.0.8 


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  AUSTRIA   


Austrian A Bundesliga round 17 best performance: Marcus Heard - by Eurobasket News
American forward Marcus Heard (201-F-84) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for UBC okoStadt Gussing Knights, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Oberwart (#5, 10-7) 81-67. Gussing maintains the 9th position in Austrian A Bundesliga. Gussing 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. It's Heard's second year at Gussing and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Former De Paul University star has very solid stats this year. Heard is in league's top in points (8th best: 17.9ppg), rebounds (3rd best: 8.6rpg) and averages impressive 51.1% FGP. Worth to mention Heard played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Demetrius Nelson (203-F/C-86, agency: Court Side) of Kapfenberg Bulls. Nelson had a very good evening with a double-double of 21 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Kapfenberg was edged by the lower-ranked UBSC Graz (#7, 9-8) 71-69. Kapfenberg managed to keep the same 3rd spot in the standings. His team's 11-6 record is not bad at all. Nelson is a newcomer at Kapfenberg 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.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Thomas Kennedy (201-F-87) of Worthersee (#12). Kennedy got into 30-points club by scoring 33 points in the last round. He went also for eight rebounds . Despite Kennedy's great performance Worthersee lost 85-101 to the higher-ranked Arkadia (#4, 10-7). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Worthersee can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-16 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Kennedy he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Kennedy has individually a great season in Austria. After 17 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.6ppg (3rd best). He also has FGP: 52.3% and 3PT: 49.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Romke Hampton (206-F-88) of Furstenfeld - 22 points and 13 rebounds
5. Curtis Bobb (198-G/F-78) of Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg - 26 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Fabricio Vay (206-F-86) of Arkadia - 31 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Rasheed Brokenborough (191-G-76) of Wels - 26 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Kevin Payton (196-G-86) of Arkadia - 21 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Aleksandar Djuric (210-F/C-82) of Gussing - 15 points and 15 rebounds
10. Shawn Ray (194-F-80) of Furstenfeld - 17 points and 8 rebounds

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

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


Mons Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Dexia Mons-Hainaut has signed American forward Ahmad Nivins (206-F-87, college: St.Joseph's) for the rest of the season. Main reason for this addition is the fact that Justin Cage is out with pneumonia for the moment.
At the end of his senior year at Saint Joseph's he was voted Atlantic 10 Player of the Year. That season he led his team with a double double for the season, scoring 19.2 ppg and 11.8 rpg. He also received all conference honors for his 3 last years in college.
His excellent senior year resulted in being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2009 NBA draft.
Played 13 games for Manresa in the Spanish ACB league before he suffered a knee injury which kept him on the sidelines for the rest of the season.
In those 13 games he had averages of 7.8 ppg and 4.2 rpg.



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  BRAZIL   


Slam Dunk Tournament of the NBB 2010 - 2011 - by Paulo Freire
The All-Star Game weekend, had a great Slam Dunk contest last season on the NBB 09/10 in the city of Uberlandia. It was full of surprises, first the elimination of the champion, Julio Toledo (former Araraquara), in the first round of the competition. A major change was also noticed in terms of creativity, who can not remember the former Flamengo player Vitor Boccardo dunking with a sunglasses during his performace and the american Brewer former Pinheiros putting some money in the basketball glass, jumping and grabbing the note.

In this edition of the Slam Dunk Contest on the All-Star weekend, we will have a leaner version of the Slam Dunk Tournament, will be only five participants, the center Rafael Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) (Sao Jose dos Campos), defending champion, plus four athletes that will come from a a pre-list of 15 players.

Check below the pre-selectable list of the Slam Dunk contest of NBB 2010 / 2011:

Renato Scholz (197-F-88, agency: Garra Sports Marketing)
Roberto Ferreira (196-F/C-79)
Ricardo Probst (200-F/C-76, agency: Interperformances)
Lucas Tischer (208-C-83, agency: Interperformances)
Ricardo Gaspar (202-F-84, agency: Garra Sports Marketing)
Caue Borges dos Santos (180-G-91)
Jordan Burger (203-F-91)
Chandler Chaves (202-F-92)
Guilherme Teichmann (204-F/C-83, college: Tulsa)
Guilherme Gui (190-F-91)
Lucas Cipolini (206-F/C-86, college: BYU-Hawaii)
Jhonatan Luz dos Santos (196-F/G-87)
Jimmy de Oliveira (189-F/G-90)
Cicero Gonzaga (202-F-86, college: NE Oklahoma A&M CC, agency: Garra Sports Marketing)


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  CROATIA   


Borik brings in Jurica Ruzic - by Eurobasket News
Borik Puntamika came up with very important signing. The team inked a deal with experienced forward Jurica Ruzic (199-F-77) for rest of the season. The 33-year-old player spent last season with Siroki TT Kabeli helping them to defend the Bosnian title. He was a member of the same team in 2008/09 and they celebrated in domestic championship as well.
Jurica Ruzic already was a member of Borik Puntamika. It was on season 2007/08, but he played just two games for the club before his move to Zagreb. Ruzic changed many teams in the past. He started basketball career with Zadar and later played for Trieste and Pepinster. From 2003 to 2006, Ruzic was a member of Le Mans and was one of their best players in this period. He also spent one season with Besancon in ProA.
Borik Puntamika currently has 6-3 record in Croatian league.

*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD defeat B.M.C. AEK - by Michael Aristidou
Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD Agios Dometios won for second time this year B.M.C. AEK Larnacas in a dramatic game 76-75. The game was decided 4, 7 seconds before time due to a successful free throw by American-Bosnian Bruce Price (191-G-83, college: Tennessee St.). (16p). Vukosavljevic Filip missed the final shot.
Balsa Radunovic (206-F-80) had 19 points while Aleksandar Smiljanic (195-G-76, agency: Beo Basket) added another 14. From the defeated team Miguel Ali Berdiel (198-G-83, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Valparaiso) had a great game having 20 points (2), and 7 assist.

Quarters 16-19, 43-37, 58-57, 76-75


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  D-LEAGUE   


Monday: Wins for Utah Flash and Iowa Energy - by Eurobasket News
Utah F. - Bakersfield J. 103-94
The Utah Flash (8-6) regained their series lead against the Bakersfield Jam (10-7) in tonight's home game with a 103-94 win. The Flash are now 2-1 this season against the Jam. The Flash's rally led them to outscore the Jam for the first three quarters, despite a late push by the Jam. The Flash finished the first quarter with a ten point lead. Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, college: La-Lafayette) was the Flash's first quarter high-scorer with 12 points. The Flash shot an impressive .800 from the field. The Jam's high scorer was Devin Ebanks with seven points. The Jam made a good attempt to catch up to the Flash in the second quarter with 19 points, but the Flash held on to the lead with a 21-point quarter. The first half ended with Utah leading 50-38. The second half of the game remained quick and exciting. The Jam inched their way in an attempt to catch up to the Flash, outscoring them 35-25 in the fourth quarter, but the first three quarters solidified the Flash's lead. The largest lead of the game (22 points) belonged to the Flash in the fourth quarter. Greene was the game's high-scorer with 30 points, his season second highest. Lance Allred (6'11''-C-81, agency: SportsTalent, college: Weber St.) had the Flash's only double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. The Jam were led Brandon Wallace (6'9''-F-85, college: S.Carolina) with 18 points, also one of two players with a double-double for the Jam (10 rebounds). Devin Ebanks, on assignment from the Los Angeles Lakers, earned the Jam's other double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. The Flash are back at home against the Reno Bighorns on Friday at 7 p.m. at the UCCU Events Center in Orem. *Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

Dakota W. - Iowa E. 91-94
Center Courtney Sims (6'11''-C-83, college: Michigan) scored and was fouled with 6.6 seconds left to break a tie game as the Iowa Energy defeated the Dakota Wizards 94-91 Monday night. Dakota led 75-69 early in the 4th quarter before Iowa scored six straight points to tie the game. The teams traded the lead several times and were tied at 91-91 with 29.7 seconds left after Wizard guard Anthony Goods (6'3''-G-87, college: Stanford) drilled two free throws. After a timeout, Energy guard Curtis Stinson missed a contested layup that was rebounded by Sims. The Energy big man made the shot and the free throw that resulted from the Mike Hall foul to put Iowa up by three. Hall's 3-point shot at the buzzer was off, giving Iowa its 13th win of the season. Sims and Stinson had 26 points each to lead Iowa (13-5). Forward Renaldo Major (6'7''-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Fresno St.) led Dakota with 28 points and 8 rebounds. The loss drops the Wizards to 4-13 on the season. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com



Bighorns acquire Anthony Richardson in trade with New Mexico - by Eurobasket News
The Reno Bighorns acquired F Anthony Richardson (6'7''-F-83, college: Florida St.) from the New Mexico Thunderbirds in exchange for F Gerard Anderson (6'6''-F-87, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) today, bringing another veteran to the Bighorns front court.

Richardson, a 6-8, 225 pound forward from Florida State, is averaging 11.5 points and 7.4 rebounds per game in 13 games with New Mexico. Richardson has recorded four double-doubles this season, including three straight to open the 2010-11 season.

In New Mexico's two home wins against Reno earlier this season, Richardson averaged 13.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, including a season-high 19-point effort in New Mexico's 115-107 win over Reno on Dec. 15.

Richardson is a former McDonald's All-American while playing at Leesville Road High School in North Carolina. While at Florida State, he earned All-ACC Freshman Team Honorable Mention honors in 2002. During his professional career, he has played in the USBL, CBA, and overseas in Germany and the Netherlands.

Anderson, a rookie out of Cal State-Fullerton, had appeared in seven games with the 'Horns, averaging 0.6 ppg and 1.1 rpg.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Othyus Jeffers named D-League Player Of The Week - by Eurobasket News
Othyus Jeffers (6'5''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Robert Morris) of the Iowa Energy was today named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played during the week of Dec. 27, his second such honor this season.

Jeffers, a 6-5, 200-pound guard/forward who earned a GATORADE Call-Up and played in 20 games last season with the Utah Jazz, led the Energy to a 2-0 record last week, averaging 22.5 points, 12.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.0 steals. Jeffers was also named Performer of the Week for the week of Nov. 21.

In Iowas 111-100 win at Fort Wayne on Tuesday, Jeffers had a team-leading 24 points and 14 rebounds, and added five assists and two steals. On Friday, Jeffers recorded 21 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two steals in the Energys 103-91 win over Dakota.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

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  ESTONIA   


"You shouldn't have left us in 1989!" - by Matthew Hall
A lot has transpired from the time of my last blog, and Ive been reluctant to write simply because I havent had any fresh material, so I'll do my best to give you the recent highlights. Richard Anderson prepared a nice Christmas dinner for a few of us, every person wishes to be with family on Christmas, so my first year being away was difficult but it was nice to share it with some good friends. I briefly spoke with some of my family back home on Christmas Eve, and seeing that all of their spirits were high and everyone was healthy was the best gift for me this Christmas. I heard my nephew, Jack Hall, got the new Wii system, and I hope hes practicing because when I return I will enjoy destroying him at his own game.

We had a two-day retreat at the resort in Haapsalu in preparation for our Cup Games tournament. We had two practices there on Sunday and on Monday, the overall trip was good for our team chemistry, after a string of losses I think the retreat was the best solution for us. After our last practice Martin Dorbek, Joosep Pokla, and myself used the sauna in the gymnasium, once the heat became unbearable we instantly ran outside and jumped into a giant mound of snow, it was a refreshing way to end our two-day camp. Once we arrived back to Rakvere we beat Kalev/Cramo in the semi-finals of the Cup Games, however, the next day we lost in the finals to a tough Tartu Rock team. Both teams we look forward to playing again in the second half of the season.

An interesting topic of a recent discussion I had was about Estonian history. Martin Dorbek, Joosep Pokla, and Viljar Veski (215-C-86) shed some light on the events that unfolded in the late 1980's that influenced the gaining of Estonian independence in 1991. The Baltic Way or Chain of Freedom between Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia was something I had never heard about, and the fact that over 2 million people held hands across the three Baltic states (370 miles) as a peaceful act of protest is just remarkable. Renato had a question about cultural differences that sparked the history lesson, he was asking why his Estonian friends view him as an American, but yet his American friends view him as an Estonia, in both instances he is viewed as a foreigner. Villu argued that he is an Estonian because he was born here, but Martin argued that he is not Estonian because his process of thought is in English. After a few minutes of debating which country Renatos loyalty should belong to Vilu humorously interjected by saying, 'You shouldnt have left us in 1989!'

Renato has numerous stories about his earlier years in Estonia. His Grandfather experienced both Soviet and Nazi German occupation, he said that some of his family and closest friends were members of the forest brothers, a large group that congregated in the woods of Estonia refusing deportation to Siberia, some for nearly fifteen years! These men fought independently and also with German soldiers against the Soviet Army. One article I read stated that, 'By international standards, the Estonian guerrilla movement was extensive. It has been estimated that as many as 30,000 forest brothers were active in the resistance between 1944 and 1956'. Renatos aunt talked with him at great lengths about the difficulties for her family during these periods of oppression. There were limited options of food at grocery markets, and in order to purchase a car and other necessities you needed specific stamps that werent easily accessible. When I learn about this history my own frustrations seem so incredibly minute, these are the stories that keep you modest at the end of the day. I asked Villu about the current situation today in Estonia in comparison with the time when his grandparents were growing up, and he said, 'Yes, it is hard for my generation to complain, todays Estonia is like paradise.' I think the perseverance within the people to achieve democracy and protect both their language and identity is admirable and impressive. Another article I read refers to the countries progression as the 'Estonian miracle'. Our team is currently dealing with some adversity, and sometimes the places you find motivation might be a bit farfetched, but helpful nonetheless. For those who dont know, two of our top players are leaving, Kristo Saage and Renato Lindmets are taking their talents to Lithuania and Iceland. We wish them the best of luck, and will miss them a great deal. Ultimately what is most essential for Rakvere Tarvas is to keep fighting and not make excuses. I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year, God Bless!

http://www.martlaar.ee/eng/crimes-of-communism/






Standings - KML
EMKL Standings
 1. TU/Rock 15-1 
 2. Kalev/Cramo 15-2 
 3. TTU/Kalev 12-5 
 4. Rakvere 9-7 
 5. Valga/CKE 6-10 
 6. Rapla 6-10 
 7. TTU/Kalev II 5-11 
 8. Parnu 4-12 
 9. Voru KK 1-15 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Voru KK
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Thornton, Voru KK18.9 
 2. Saage, Rakvere18.1 
 3. Raap, Parnu17.4 
 4. Erm, Rapla16.7 
 5. Brown, Va.16.6 
 6. Vares, Va.15.8 
 7. Kuuba, Voru KK15.7 
 8. Arnold, TT.15.2 
 9. Pokla, Rakvere14.6 
 10. Tagamets, Va.14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Anthony BROWN
  Valga/CKE
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.7
 1. Brown, Va.12.7 
 2. Thornton, Voru KK12.3 
 3. Arnold, TT.10.4 
 4. Eziukwu, TU/Rock9.4 
 5. Osby, TT.9.2 
 6. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.8.7 
 7. Kuuba, Voru KK8.6 
 8. Ringmets, Rapla8.4 
 9. Pokla, Rakvere8.1 
 10. Hughes, TT.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Tanel SOKK
  Kalev/Cramo
  (184-G-85)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.9 
 2. Kriisa, TT.3.6 
 3. Sokk, TU/Rock3.4 
 4. Oja, Va.3.3 
 5. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock3.2 
 6. Karner, Parnu3.1 
 7. Winston, Va.3.1 
 8. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo2.9 
 9. Dorbek, Rakvere2.8 
 10. Pokla, Rakvere2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Rait-Riivo LAANE
  Rapla
  (180-G-93)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Laane, Rapla2.3 
 2. Doronin, TU/Rock2.2 
 3. Saage, Rakvere2.2 
 4. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 5. Dorbek, Rakvere2.1 
 6. Veideman, TU/Rock2.1 
 7. Pokla, Rakvere2.0 
 8. Archibald, TT.1.9 
 9. Erm, Rapla1.9 
 10. Oja, Va.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock2.4 
 2. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.9 
 3. Osby, TT.1.4 
 4. Brown, Va.1.0 
 5. Raadik, Parnu1.0 
 6. Arnold, TT.0.9 
 7. Saarmets, TTU/K.0.8 
 8. Talts, TU/Rock0.8 
 9. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.7 
 10. McGee, Rakvere0.7 


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Primoz BREZEC
  Krasnie Krilya
  (216-F/C-79)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Brezec, Krasnie .20.8 
 2. Janicenoks, VEF R.20.3 
 3. Tucker, Aris19.1 
 4. Dragicevic, Buduc.19.0 
 5. Popovic, Unics18.5 
 6. Solomon, Hapoel J.18.0 
 7. Walsh, AS.17.7 
 8. Macvan, Hemofarm17.0 
 9. Chatman, Besiktas16.8 
 10. Draper, Cedevita16.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lazaros PAPADOPOULOS
  PAOK
  (210-C-80)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Papadopoulos, PAOK12.2 
 2. Brezec, Krasnie .9.7 
 3. Tucker, Aris8.6 
 4. Walsh, AS.8.3 
 5. Lampe, Unics8.0 
 6. Macvan, Hemofarm8.0 
 7. Ellis, GasTerra7.7 
 8. Owens, Azovmash7.5 
 9. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.7.5 
 10. Anderson, Goett.7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Ernest BREMER
  Krasnie Krilya
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Bremer, Krasnie .8.3 
 2. Popovic, Unics7.0 
 3. Draper, Cedevita6.6 
 4. James, Lukoil A.6.5 
 5. Mekel, Galil Gilboa6.3 
 6. Meacham, Goett.6.2 
 7. Walsh, AS.6.0 
 8. Thomas, Anwil5.3 
 9. Markovic, Benetton.5.1 
 10. Lukauskis, EWE B.4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Dontaye DRAPER
  Cedevita
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Draper, Cedevita2.6 
 2. Janicenoks, VEF R.2.5 
 3. Popovic, Unics2.5 
 4. Lukauskis, EWE B.2.5 
 5. House, Azovmash2.5 
 6. Diabate, Roanne2.3 
 7. Markovic, Benetton.2.3 
 8. Bostain, GasTerra2.3 
 9. Dourisseau, GasTe.2.3 
 10. Jasen, Estudiantes2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Brian RANDLE
  Hapoel J-M
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Randle, Hapoel J-M2.1 
 2. Dunston, Aris2.0 
 3. Berzins, VEF Riga1.8 
 4. Muurinen, Dt.1.5 
 5. Moss, Orleans1.5 
 6. Sy, Orleans1.5 
 7. Thompson, Spart.1.5 
 8. Bowman, Lukoil A.1.5 
 9. Rupert, Le Mans1.3 
 10. Chan, CEZ Nymburk1.2 


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


Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group E
 1. Caja Laboral 0-0 
 2. Lietuvos Rytas 0-0 
 3. Panathinaikos 0-0 
 4. Unicaja 0-0 
Group F
 1. Lottomatica 0-0 
 2. Maccabi T-A 0-0 
 3. Regal Barca 0-0 
 4. Union Olimpija 0-0 
Group G
 1. Efes Pilsen 0-0 
 2. Montepaschi 0-0 
 3. Partizan 0-0 
 4. Real Madrid 0-0 
Group H
 1. Fener.Ulker 0-0 
 2. Olympiakos 0-0 
 3. Valencia 0-0 
 4. Zalgiris 0-0 


Esteban Batista joins Caja Laboral - by Eurobasket News
Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) will play for Caja Laboral in the reminder of the season. The player has agreed on terms of three-year contract with the team. The Uruguayan centre started the season in Fuenlabrada. He tallied 12.7 points, 8.4 boards and 1.8 steals per game with the team. He is the second best rebounder in the ACB at the moment. It was the second season with Fuenlabrada for the 27-year-old player after he moved to Spain from Argentina. Esteban Batista played for Uruguay at the South American Championship in 2010. He tallied 10.8 points, 11.2 boards, 1.6 blocks and 1.6 assists per game in Colombia. Esteban Batista is expected to join Caja Laboral in the closest fixtures. They visit Lagun Aro on January 9. Fuenlabrada have already started looking for a new centre.


Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 Draw results - by Eurobasket News
The road to the 2011 Turkish Airlines Euroleague Final Four was mapped out for the remaining teams in the competition on Tuesday with the draw for the Top 16 phase, held at the Mediapro Auditorium in Barcelona, Spain. All of the 16 teams that survived a scintillating regular season are hoping to return to Barcelona in just four months for the 2011 Euroleague Basketball Final Four. Following the Top 16 Draw, each knows which opponents they will need to beat in order to make that return trip. Regular season group winners Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv, Olympiacos Piraeus, Montepaschi Siena and Panathinaikos Athens headline the four Top 16 groups of four teams each. Every group will feature six games per team in a round-robin setup between January 19 and March 3. The teams with the best two records in each Top 16 group advance to the Playoffs, best-of-five series held between March 22 and April 6. The four Playoffs winners advance to the Final Four, May 6 to 8 at Palau Sant Jordi, where this season's Euroleague champion will be crowned. Tuesday's draw was attended by representatives from all 16 clubs that advanced from the regular season as well as by Euroleague Basketball sponsors, officials from the Barcelona municipal government, and media members from across Europe. The draw was also broadcast on local TV and via Euroleague.net to audiences around the world.


Group E
Panathinaikos
Caja Laboral
Unicaja
Lietuvos Rytas

Group F
Maccabi Electra
Union Olimpija
Regal Barca
Lottomatica Roma

Group G
Montepaschi Siena
Real Madrid
Efes Pilsen
Partizan

Group H
Olympiacos
Fenerbahce Ulker
Zalgiris
Valencia

Courtesy of Euroleague

*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Fiba regulatory arm now reaching teams and agents - by Greg
Players who have used the correct FIBA Arbitration Clause have recently been able to receive favorable rulings in the FIBA Arbitration Tribunal.

Though Fiba cannot guarantee collection, the threat of FIBA sanctions has aided enforcement.

As a result, players are more willing to sign with economically
distressed teams, the risk being the team may fold completely.

Now Fiba is moving to clean up the Agent business. Fiba has always required all contracts to include the work of certified agents, but never had a good way to enforce this. A recent FIBA memo indicates FIBA will consider sanctions against teams that allow contracts to be completed
by agents who are not the official agent of the player.

Though FIBA is making an effort, teams continue to do business as usual.


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


@2011 Working Overtime - by Corey Belser
6 games in 13 days to start of the New Year! Got to love it. We won our first match of the New Year in the Finland-Korisliiga, and tomorrow play Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius one of the top teams in europe. As a player I love it, I get to do what I love and there isn't a lot of down time. Our coach's Pekka Salminen and Jussi Syrjnen do a great job with scouting and preparation, as professional athletes a lot of our success comes from understanding what the other teams tendencies are. It's a part of the game that most people don't understand, I have 5 pages worth of material on Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius to analyze and study for the game. I spent 2 hours last night watching them beat Regal FC Barcelona and going over the scouting report. Professional basketball and I emphasize Professional isn't just about playing, theres a lot of preparation that goes in to each game.

We play over 50 games this season, so there will be a lot of overtime taking place. It's part of the job. I been doing it since I was in high school so it's second nature. I always laugh when I hear people say 'oh man you guys have it so easy you just play ball for a living' if they understood the commitment and hard work that comes with it, I am not sure they would consider it to be easy. I played in Greece for 3 1/2 years and in the Ukraine, and by far Finland is the most demanding. Sometimes we play 3 or 4 games in one week. It's not only demanding mentally but also physically. Every game is battle and it begins to take a toll on your body, I have already had my fair share this season. In Greece we play once a week sometimes two, when we competed in European play but it was never more then 2. This season our team has already played twice as many games then the majority of teams in Europe. Don't get me wrong I am not complaining, just giving you the facts. I actually love it, but I am sure my body prefers Greece.

Outside of working overtime, things are great! I was out for 2 1/2 weeks with a groin injury and last game was my second game back. I was one point shy from having 20 and 11, that would have been a great way to start out the 2011 New Year! I am excited for our team and how things are going, and just really eager to get back into the swing of things. I want our team to do something great this season, and I think we can and will. I had a great Christmas break with my Fiance in Paris, despite the snow delays and employee strikes at the airport in France, it was really nice. I am sure there a lot of airport horror stories after this holiday season. I wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year and best wishes to the AFCA family. (www.afcathletes.org) Best wishes to Chris Hester (192-G/F-79, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: E.Washington) who recently suffered a season ending injury, and Ajene Moye (193-G-82, college: Indiana) both great players who I know will be back on the court in time. Congratulations to my teammates, as well as Player of the Month John Williamson (198-C-86, college: Cincinnati) 24ppg and 10 rebs for the month of December. Also hello and I love you to my family, I miss you guys see you soon. Corey Belser (200-F-82, college: San Diego) singed out..........
Lithuania Morning
Pekka Salminen
Jussi Syrjnen


KORISLIIGA: The Player of December - John Williamson - by Rauno Hurmalainen
American Forward-Center John Williamson (198-C-86, college: Cincinnati) (Honka, Espoo) has been named The Player of December. Williamson was averaging 24,3 ppg - 10,8 rpg last month as Honka won four out of six games. Honka is now # 4 in Top League with 14-9 record and Williamson has averages 19,0 ppg - 8,0 rpg in 21 contests. The Player of November was Jerald Fields (201-F-82, agency: Lanshire Group, college: E.Tenn.St.) (KTP, Kotka) and The Player of October American Guard B.A. Walker (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) (Kouvot, Kouvola).

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


Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. Roanne 10-2 
 2. Chalon 9-3 
 3. Nancy 9-3 
 4. Cholet 9-3 
 5. Gravelines 8-4 
 6. Hyeres-Toulon 7-5 
 7. ASVEL 6-6 
 8. Le Havre 6-6 
 9. Orleans 5-7 
 10. Strasbourg 5-7 
 11. Pau-Lacq-Orthez 5-7 
 12. Limoges 4-8 
 13. Paris-Levallois 4-8 
 14. Le Mans 4-8 
 15. Poitierarleys 3-9 
 16. Vichy 2-10 


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 18
 1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.18.0 
 2. Darden, Nancy17.4 
 3. Walsh, AS.17.3 
 4. Woodside, Gravelines17.3 
 5. Mejia, Cholet17.0 
 6. Massie, Limoges16.7 
 7. Jefferson, AS.16.1 
 8. King, Le Havre15.8 
 9. Haynes, Chalon15.7 
 10. Bennett, Pau-La.15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rob LEWIN
  Vichy
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Lewin, Vichy9.8 
 2. Krupalija, Hyeres.9.4 
 3. Massie, Limoges9.3 
 4. Issa, Gravelines9.0 
 5. Jones, Le Havre8.4 
 6. Jefferson, AS.8.3 
 7. Koffi, Le Mans7.9 
 8. Akingbala, Nancy7.8 
 9. Darden, Nancy7.7 
 10. Sommerville, Paris-.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Zack WRIGHT
  Limoges
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Wright, Limoges6.4 
 2. Reid, Vichy6.3 
 3. King, Le Havre6.2 
 4. Linehan, Nancy5.8 
 5. Woodside, Gravelines5.7 
 6. Sciarra, Pau-La.5.4 
 7. Diabate, Roanne5.2 
 8. Walsh, AS.4.7 
 9. Tchicamboud, Cha.4.6 
 10. Pellin, Le Mans4.6 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Linehan, Nancy3.5 
 2. Walsh, AS.2.4 
 3. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.2.1 
 4. Darden, Nancy2.1 
 5. Diot, Le Mans2.1 
 6. Bennett, Pau-La.2.1 
 7. Causeur, Cholet2.0 
 8. Sangare, Le Havre1.9 
 9. Woodside, Gravelines1.9 
 10. Bokolo, Gravelines1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Gravelines
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Akpomedah, Grave.1.7 
 2. Elegar, Vichy1.6 
 3. Jefferson, AS.1.3 
 4. Issa, Gravelines1.3 
 5. Badiane, Poitiera.1.3 
 6. Koffi, Le Mans1.3 
 7. Wilkinson, Le Havre1.2 
 8. Pasco, Strasbourg1.1 
 9. Fofana, AS.1.1 
 10. Akingbala, Nancy1.0 


ProA Round 12: Cholet loses to Chalon/Saor - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with extra overtimes and favorites losing the games.

The most important game in the last round took place in Chalon between second ranked Cholet (9-3) and fourth ranked Chalon/Saor (9-3) on Tuesday night. Cholet was crushed by Chalon/Saor on the road 69-92. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Cholet. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 60-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Chalon/Saor made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Cholet helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for the former international guard Steed Tchicamboud (193-81) who led his team to a victory with 21 points and 6 assists. American guard Blake Schilb (201-83, college: Loyola (IL), agency: ZAG Advocates) contributed with 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Chalon/Saor's coach Gregor Beugnot felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Antywane Robinson (203-84, college: Temple, agency: Priority Sports) replied with 19 points and 6 rebounds for Cholet. Chalon/Saor has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Cholet and Nancy. Chalon/Saor is looking forward to face Poitiers (#15) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Cholet will play against Limoges CSP Elite (#12) and is hoping to win this game.
ProA top team - Chorale de Roanne (10-2) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat ninth ranked Pau-Lacq-Orthez (5-7) 88-78. Worth to mention a quality performance of American swingman K.C. Rivers (196-87, college: Clemson, agency: Lanshire Group) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and Dylan Page who added 17 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American forward Travon Bryant (206-83, college: Missouri) with 9 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Chorale de Roanne have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-2 record. Newly promoted Pau-Lacq-Orthez keeps the ninth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Strasbourg and Orleans. Chorale de Roanne will play against ASVEL (#7) in Villeurbanne in the next round where they are favorite. Pau-Lacq-Orthez will play at home against STB Le Havre and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Thirteenth-ranked Limoges CSP Elite (4-8) used its home court advantage to challenge third ranked Sluc Nancy (9-3) on Sunday. The visitors from Nancy managed to secure only one-point victory 78-77. However their fans expected much easier game. The winners were led by Tremmell Darden who scored that evening 23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Even 26 points and 8 rebounds by Aurelien Salmon did not help to save the game for Limoges CSP Elite. Sluc Nancy have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Cholet and Chalon. Newly promoted Limoges CSP Elite dropped to the twelfth position with eight games lost. They share it with Paris-Levallois and Le Mans. Sluc Nancy will meet at home Hyeres-Toulon (#6) in the next round. Limoges CSP Elite will play against Cholet (#4) and hope to secure a win.
Important game to mention about took place in Strasbourg. Tenth ranked Strasbourg IG (5-7) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 15th ranked Poitiers (3-9) 64-62 on Sunday evening slightly avoiding a big embarassment. The best player for the winners was John McCord who had a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds. Strasbourg IG's coach Frederic Sarre allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Strasbourg IG moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Orleans. Poitiers at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with nine games lost. Strasbourg IG's next round opponent will be Entente Orleans 45 (#9) on the road. Poitiers will play against the league's second-placed Chalon/Saor (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
The game between 6th ranked STB Le Havre (6-6) and eighth ranked ASVEL (6-6) in Le Havre on Sunday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Villeurbanne outscored STB Le Havre 87-63. It was a good game for Davon Jefferson who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 5 rebounds. ASVEL moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Le Havre. ASVEL will face league's leader Chorale de Roanne at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 12: Gravelines smashed Paris-Levallois on the road 76-55. Hyeres-Toulon won against Vichy on its own court 76-68. Orleans managed to outperform Le Mans in a road game 70-59.


Strasbourg - Poitierarleys 64-62

Important game to mention about took place in Strasbourg. Tenth ranked Strasbourg IG (5-7) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 15th ranked Poitiers (3-9) 64-62 on Sunday evening slightly avoiding a big embarassment. The hosts were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 1-point deficit before their 18-15 run, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American-British forward John McCord (201-73, college: Cornell) who had a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds. American forward Justin Hawkins (201-85, college: N.Mexico St.) chipped in 15 points and 7 rebounds. Strasbourg IG's coach Frederic Sarre allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Antonio Grant (198-76, college: S.Carolina) who recorded 14 points and 7 rebounds and forward Pierre-Yves Guillard (201-84) added 6 points and 12 rebounds respectively. Strasbourg IG moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Orleans. Poitiers at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with nine games lost. Strasbourg IG's next round opponent will be Entente Orleans 45 (#9) on the road. Poitiers will play against the league's second-placed Chalon/Saor (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Poitierarleys: A.Grant 14+7reb+3ast, R.Wright 11, C.Ona-Embo 9+4reb+3ast, P.Badiane 7+5reb+1ast, P.Guillard 6+12reb, E.Fournier 5+1reb+1ast
Strasbourg: J.Hawkins 15+7reb, J.McCord 12+10reb+1ast, A.MBaye 10+2reb, A.Jeanneau 9, A.Digbeu 6+2reb, P.Pasco 6+10reb+2ast
gschID: 100185


Limoges - Nancy 77-78 OT

Thirteenth-ranked Limoges CSP Elite (4-8) used its home court advantage to challenge third ranked Sluc Nancy (9-3) on Sunday. The visitors from Nancy managed to secure only one-point victory 78-77. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Limoges CSP Elite won third quarter 20-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Limoges CSP Elite used huge preassure winning it 20-17 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 7-8. Sluc Nancy dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to Limoges CSP Elite's 24. Sluc Nancy forced 25 Limoges CSP Elite turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The winners were led by American swingman Tremmell Darden (194-81, college: Niagara) who scored that evening 23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and American-Bulgarian guard Willie Deane (186-80, college: Purdue, agency: Higher Vision Sports) supported him with 13 points and 5 assists. Even 26 points and 8 rebounds by forward Aurelien Salmon (205-87) did not help to save the game for Limoges CSP Elite. American power forward Christophe Massie (206-77, college: Memphis, agency: Court Side) added 18 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. Four Limoges CSP Elite players scored in double figures. Sluc Nancy have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Cholet and Chalon. Newly promoted Limoges CSP Elite dropped to the twelfth position with eight games lost. They share it with Paris-Levallois and Le Mans. Sluc Nancy will meet at home Hyeres-Toulon (#6) in the next round. Limoges CSP Elite will play against Cholet (#4) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Limoges: A.Salmon 26+8reb+2ast, C.Massie 18+11reb+6ast, T.Adams 15+1reb, R.Biggs 11+5reb+2ast, X.D'Almeida 4+7reb+2ast, K.Souchu 3+2reb+1ast
Nancy: T.Darden 23+7reb+4ast, W.Deane 13+5ast, A.Akingbala 9+7reb+1ast, J.Linehan 9+1reb+6ast, M.Badiane 8+4reb, V.Samnick 7+5reb
gschID: 100182


Paris-Levallois - Gravelines 55-76

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked Gravelines-Dunkerque (8-4) crushed on the road 14th ranked Paris-Levallois (4-8) 76-55 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 47-25 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for American guard Ben Woodside (180-85, college: N.Dakota St., agency: Priority Sports) who led his team to a victory with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. American-Dominican swingman Jeff Greer (196-79, college: Rutgers) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Four Gravelines-Dunkerque players scored in double figures. Coach Christian Monschau's team controlled all game and the coach could let to play 10 players saving starting five for next games. Naturalized American guard Jimmal Ball (178-78, college: Akron) replied with 12 points and 7 rebounds and American forward Marcellus Sommerville (200-82, college: Bradley, agency: Lanshire Group) added 7 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Paris-Levallois. Gravelines-Dunkerque maintains fifth position with 8-4 record. Paris-Levallois lost seventh consecutive game. They dropped to the twelfth place with eight games lost. Gravelines-Dunkerque will face Le Mans (#14) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Paris-Levallois will play against JA Vichy.
Top scorers:
Paris-Levallois: B.Wright 13+2reb+1ast, J.Ball 12+7reb+3ast, L.Hamilton 8+7reb+2ast, M.Sommerville 7+9reb+2ast, M.Morandais 6+7reb+2ast, G.Yango 4+2reb
Gravelines: B.Woodside 18+6reb+8ast, J.Greer 16+4reb+2ast, C.Akpomedah 10+9reb+2ast, Y.Bokolo 10+3reb+3ast, R.Jomby 9+4reb+2ast, D.Issa 6+12reb+1ast
gschID: 100183


Roanne - Pau-Lacq-Orthez 88-78

ProA top team - Chorale de Roanne (10-2) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat ninth ranked Pau-Lacq-Orthez (5-7) 88-78. Chorale de Roanne players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Worth to mention a quality performance of American swingman K.C. Rivers (196-87, college: Clemson, agency: Lanshire Group) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and the other American import forward Dylan Page (204-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) who added 17 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Five Chorale de Roanne players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Travon Bryant (206-83, college: Missouri) with 9 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists and guard Teddy Gipson (193-80, college: Arkansas) scored 14 points and 4 assists. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Chorale de Roanne have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-2 record. Newly promoted Pau-Lacq-Orthez keeps the ninth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Strasbourg and Orleans. Chorale de Roanne will play against ASVEL (#7) in Villeurbanne in the next round where they are favorite. Pau-Lacq-Orthez will play at home against STB Le Havre and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pau-Lacq-Orthez: S.Rimac 14+2reb+1ast, T.Gipson 14+3reb+4ast, J.Morency 11+2reb, A.Mendy 10+9reb+1ast, D.Bennett 9+6reb+3ast, T.Bryant 9+11reb+6ast
Roanne: K.Rivers 19+4reb+3ast, D.Page 17+6reb+2ast, P.Braud 12+2ast, P.Amagou 11+1reb+2ast, U.Nsonwu-Amadi 10+7reb+5ast, A.Gordon 8+2ast
gschID: 100184


Chalon - Cholet 92-69

The most important game in the last round took place in Chalon between second ranked Cholet (9-3) and fourth ranked Chalon/Saor (9-3) on Tuesday night. Cholet was crushed by Chalon/Saor on the road 69-92. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Cholet. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 60-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Chalon/Saor made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Cholet helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for the former international guard Steed Tchicamboud (193-81) who led his team to a victory with 21 points and 6 assists. American guard Blake Schilb (201-83, college: Loyola (IL), agency: ZAG Advocates) contributed with 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Four Chalon/Saor players scored in double figures. Chalon/Saor's coach Gregor Beugnot felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Antywane Robinson (203-84, college: Temple, agency: Priority Sports) replied with 19 points and 6 rebounds and forward Luc-Arthur Vebobe (203-80, college: Hawaii) added 9 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Cholet. Chalon/Saor has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Cholet and Nancy. Chalon/Saor is looking forward to face Poitiers (#15) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Cholet will play against Limoges CSP Elite (#12) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Cholet: A.Robinson 19+6reb+1ast, S.Mejia 15+2reb+1ast, L.Vebobe 9+9reb+2ast, D.Nelson 7+2reb+7ast, M.Diarra 6+2reb+1ast, C.Leonard 5+4reb+1ast
Chalon: S.Tchicamboud 21+3reb+6ast, I.Evtimov 15+5reb+4ast, A.Aminu 13+2reb+1ast, B.Schilb 13+8reb+5ast, M.Haynes 12+4reb+2ast, A.Michel Jean-Baptiste 8+10reb+1ast
gschID: 100178


Hyeres-Toulon - Vichy 76-68

Very expected game when 16th ranked JA Vichy (2-10) lost on the road to seventh ranked Hyeres-Toulon (7-5) 76-68 on Sunday. JA Vichy trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 19-11 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 68-76 at the end of the game. Hyeres-Toulon outrebounded JA Vichy 48-25 including a 34-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for Bosnian power forward Damir Krupalija (205-79, college: Illinois) who led his team to a victory with a triple-double by scoring 10 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists. American guard Kevin Houston (179-85, college: Long Beach St.) contributed with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Four Hyeres-Toulon players scored in double figures. Hyeres-Toulon's coach Alain Weisz used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. American forward Demetris Nichols (205-84, college: Syracuse) replied with 28 points and 5 rebounds and forward Jonathan Aka (203-86) added 6 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for JA Vichy. Hyeres-Toulon moved-up to sixth place. Loser JA Vichy stay at the bottom position with ten games lost. Hyeres-Toulon will face higher ranked Sluc Nancy (#3) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. JA Vichy will play against Paris-Levallois (#13).
Top scorers:
Vichy: D.Nichols 28+5reb+1ast, J.Shuler 14, J.Aka 6+7reb+1ast, K.Reid 5+1reb+2ast, R.Gaines 5+2reb, F.Elegar 4+6reb+1ast
Hyeres-Toulon: K.Houston 16+5reb+4ast, N.Boungou Colo 15+5reb, S.Fein 14+2reb, D.Krupalija 10+12reb+10ast, V.Masingue 8+10reb, J.Flowers 6+2reb
gschID: 100179


Le Havre - ASVEL 63-87

The game between 6th ranked STB Le Havre (6-6) and eighth ranked ASVEL (6-6) in Le Havre on Sunday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Villeurbanne outscored STB Le Havre 87-63. The game was mostly controlled by ASVEL. STB Le Havre managed to win second period 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. ASVEL dominated down low during the game scoring 72 of its points in the paint compared to STB Le Havre's 38. It was a good game for American forward Davon Jefferson (203-86, college: USC) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 5 rebounds. The former international forward Mickael Gelabale (201-83) contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four ASVEL players scored in double figures. American forward Wes Wilkinson (207-84, college: Nebraska) replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward Joseph Jones (206-86, college: Texas A&M) added 9 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for STB Le Havre. ASVEL moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Le Havre. ASVEL will face league's leader Chorale de Roanne at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Le Havre: W.Wilkinson 16+10reb+2ast, N.Pope 10+1reb, M.Zianveni 9+9reb, J.Jones 9+9reb+2ast, B.King 9+4reb+7ast, J.Cox 8+4reb+1ast
ASVEL: D.Jefferson 20+5reb+3ast, M.Gelabale 18+7reb+1ast, M.Walsh 13+3reb+7ast, C.Hammonds 10+4reb+4ast, P.Lacombe 9+3reb+2ast, B.Fofana 6+3reb+1ast
gschID: 100180


Le Mans - Orleans 59-70

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both twelfth ranked Entente Orleans 45 and 11th ranked Le Mans had identical 4-7 record. But Le Mans was not able to use a home court advantage and was defeated by the opponent from Orleans 70-59 on Sunday night. The game was mostly controlled by Entente Orleans 45. Le Mans managed to win third quarter 19-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Le Mans to just 4 points in second quarter. Entente Orleans 45 forced 20 Le Mans turnovers. It was a good game for international guard Aldo Curti (180-87) who led his team to a victory with 10 points and 5 assists. American power forward Jamar Smith (206-80, college: Maryland) contributed with 12 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four Entente Orleans 45 players scored in double figures. Entente Orleans 45's coach Philippe Herve used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. Brazilian power forward Joao Paulo Batista (207-81, college: Gonzaga) replied with 12 points and 5 rebounds and international guard Antoine Diot (191-89) added 9 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Le Mans. Entente Orleans 45 (5-7) moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Strasbourg. Loser Le Mans dropped to the twelfth position with eight games lost. Entente Orleans 45 will face Strasbourg IG (#10) at home in the next round. Le Mans will play against Gravelines-Dunkerque.
Top scorers:
Le Mans: A.Acker 13+2reb, J.Paulo Batista 12+5reb+3ast, A.Koffi 10+6reb, B.Dewar 9+2reb+3ast, A.Diot 9+5reb+3ast, M.Kakiouzis 4+4reb+2ast
Orleans: J.Smith 12+5reb+1ast, A.Moerman 11+2reb, T.Bell 11+3reb+1ast, M.NDoye 10+4reb, A.Curti 10+4reb+5ast, L.Vaty 8+6reb
gschID: 100181




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


Kevin Hamilton (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) Postgame Thoughts To 75-73 Win Against The Telekom Baskets Bonn - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York. This season, he is playing for The New York Phantoms Braunschweig. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1 (6.4apg), Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. In tue summer of 2009, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing 35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3 (6.3apg), Steals-2 (1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. Last season, he played his first season in Braunschweig playing 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. He spoke to eurobasket following the 75-73 win against The Telekom Baskets Bonn.


Congrats on the 75-73 win at home against the strong Telekom Baskets Bonn. Braunschweig continues to play very strong basketball. How much of a challenge was it pulling this close game out at home?


It was tough, Bonn is a really good team and they had a big lead early on so it feels good to have battled back.


Bonn had the 39-26 lead at halftime. Why was Braunschweig only able to muster 26 points in the first 20 minutes?

Bonn played really good defense and we weren't able to get good looks at the basket.

What did coach Sebastian Machowski tell the team do better in the third quarter?

Bring more energy

In the third quarter, The New Yorker Phnatoms Braunschweig responded with a 22-10 run to come back. How were you able to contain the Bonn wings better in this quarter?


We made some adjustments on defense and were doing a good job of contesting their shots

In the fourth quarter, Bonn led by 7 points, but Braunschweig rallied back and took the lead with a Lamaar Greer three pointer and never looked back? What was key in the stretch run to pull out the win?

We were playing together offensively and were able to get Lamar and Brandon some shots because they were the hot hands.

Folarin Campbell had 26 points. How has his game chnaged from last season at Artland. He has exploded this season while last season he seemed lost in the Artland rotation?

He is playing great right now. I do not think his game has changed much, I just think he is in a situation where he is much more comfortable. He has always been a really good player.

How much will Brandon Roy sidelined 'indefinitely'hurt the Portland Trailblaziers?

It hurts them a lot. They may not make the playoffs.

What is your favorite part in the movie Coming To America?


Probably when Samuel L Jackson trys to rob the McDowells. Some of the scenes in the Barber shop are funny too lol.



Thanks Kev for the chat.

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.Bank SKY
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 17.4
 1. Wood, Dt.17.4 
 2. Martin, Bremerha.16.7 
 3. Peacock, LTi 46ers16.0 
 4. Rice, Art.Dragons15.8 
 5. Benzing, ratio.15.6 
 6. Callahan, Bremerha.15.2 
 7. Bryant, ratiopharm15.2 
 8. Campbell, Teleko.15.1 
 9. Bell, Phoenix Hagen14.3 
 10. Burtschi, Phoenix .14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Bryant, ratiopharm10.9 
 2. Ensminger, Teleko.8.0 
 3. Reiner, Bayreuth8.0 
 4. Stevic, EWE B.7.8 
 5. Watts, Walter T.7.7 
 6. Ovcina, LTi 46ers7.5 
 7. Martin, Bremerha.7.4 
 8. Peacock, LTi 46ers7.1 
 9. Pleiss, Brose B.7.0 
 10. Evtimov, MBC7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter Tigers
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Ratkovica, Walter T.7.4 
 2. Wood, Dt.4.9 
 3. Jordan, MBC4.7 
 4. Rice, Art.Dragons4.5 
 5. McElroy, AL.4.5 
 6. Gamqrelidze, LTi 4.5 
 7. Joyce, TBB Trier4.4 
 8. Campbell, EWE B.4.2 
 9. Green, EnBW L.4.2 
 10. Copeland, Bremerha.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Kevin HAMILTON
  NY Phantoms
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Hamilton, NY Phant.2.1 
 2. Martin, Bremerha.1.8 
 3. Dorris, Phoenix .1.7 
 4. Trice, ratiopharm1.6 
 5. Burtschi, Phoenix .1.6 
 6. Wise, Telekom .1.5 
 7. Campbell, Teleko.1.4 
 8. Stevic, EWE B.1.4 
 9. Goldsberry, Brose B.1.4 
 10. Bailey, Art.Dragons1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Ekene IBEKWE
  Ironi Ashkelon
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.2.4 
 2. Pleiss, Brose B.2.1 
 3. Bryant, ratiopharm1.3 
 4. Brempong, Duesseld.1.1 
 5. Goree, NY Phantoms1.1 
 6. Boumtje, Art.Drag.1.1 
 7. Scott, Goettingen1.1 
 8. Baynes, EWE B.1.0 
 9. Hines, Brose B.0.9 
 10. Femerling, ALBA0.9 


Ronald Ross (MBC Wolves) Pregame Thoughts To Alba Berlin Game January 5th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Ronald Ross (188-G-83, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Texas Tech) is a 27 year old 18 8cm guard playing his first season for MBC. He is originally from Hobbs New Mexico and played at Texas Tech from 2001-2005. In his senior year, he averaged 17.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.0apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3Pts: 43% and reached the NCA Sweet 16. He started his professional career with Univer Castelletto Ticino (Italy-Lega2) and then moved on to the CBA in 2006-2007 for Butte Daredevils playing 48 games averaging 15.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.4spg), FGP: 49%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 74.2% and in 2007 for the Albany Patroons (USBL, starting five) playing 21 games: Score-3 (17.4ppg), 3.0rpg, Assists-4 (4.0apg), Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 47.6%, 3FGP: 41.4%, FT: 84.2%. In 2007-2008, he played for ENBW Ludwigsburg playing 34 games and averaging 14.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.3apg, Steals-2 (1.7spg), 2FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.9% reaching the cup final in 2008. In 2008-2009 he started in Israel before moving on to the Artland Dragons playing 12 games and averaging 15.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 70.0%. Last season for the Artland Dragons, he played 12 games: 10.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 83.0%; German League: 32 games: 11.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 75.7%. He spoke to eurobasket.

MBC only scored 46 points in Goettingen. Is Goettingen slowly getting back to the level that they were at last season?

Goettingen has been pretty good for a couple of years now. It's normal for a team have ups and downs, you just want to make sure you have more ups than downs.

What was your impression of Cornell player Louis Dale (180-G-88, college: Cornell) who is a rookie this season?


Honestly, he played hard, but I really don't know much about him and didn't get to see him display his talent in our game against them.

The next game is against 8 time BEKO BBL champion Alba Berlin. They are coming off a close loss in Tuebingen. What can we expect from this game?


We have to be ready. Any team that is used to success and loses when they are not supposed to always comes back in the next trying to prove something. I think it will be a good game. I know our team is hungry for a win and without a doubt, they are too.

What has been your best memory playing against Alba Berlin in the last years?


Well, we lost to them both times last year in Artland so I can't say there is much worth remembering.

Who is tougher to guard Julius Jenkins or Immanuel Mcelroy?

Jenkins, you can't fall asleep on defense with him and you always have to be alert because he can be gone in no time shooting a shot. With Mcelroy, you have to have good positioning and try to get him in a uncomfortable zone. He's a stronger guard too so have to be ready to be physical as well.

What will be key in winning this game for MBC?

Take it one possession at a time and continue to play at a high pace even through our mistakes.


What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


Haha, Ice Age 2...and no I was not watching it with kids, I just have my share of Disney movies I like.

Thanks Ron for the chat.

Leibenath appointed Osnabrueck head coach - by Moritz Korff
Thorsten Leibenath has been hired as the new coach for 2. Bundesliga Pro A side GiroLive-Ballers Osnabrueck. The 35-year-old signed a deal that runs through the end of the 2011-12 season. Leibenath worked as a coach assistant for Giessen from 2000 to 2006, followed by a stint in the British Basketball League: In 2006-07 he was standing at the helm of the Scottish Rocks, then returned to Giessen to take over head coaching duties for a single season. In 2008 he accepted an offer from the Artland Dragons and had a two year tenure in Lower Saxony.
Oddly enough the previous coach Marko Simic wasn't even mentioned in the club's press release. Rumors had it he may continue as an assistant to Leibenath. According to local paper Neue OZ however, Simic rejected that offer. The talented coach, still only 23 years of age, led the Ballers to a 8-5 record this season. The Osnabrueck team is currently sitting in 9th place of the Pro A standings.

Walt Baxley will continue his career in Finland - by Moritz Korff
Walt Baxley (191-G-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: Mars Hill) has ended his stint with ratiopharm Ulm (1. Bundesliga) and is headed to Finland. The 26-year-old shooting guard has already joined Korisliiga team Kauhajoki Karhu Basket. Baxley made his way from the Saar-Pfalz Braves to Ulm during the summer break. With an outstanding Pro A season under his belt he was hoping to make an impact in the BBL as well, but never really broke through in Ulm. He appeared in eight regular season games for the club, averaging just over 7 minutes per contest, while scoring 1.5 points a game.

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


Igor Milosevic officially in Trabzonspor - by Eurobasket News
Igor Milosevic (193-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) is officially a new member of Trabzonspor. He signed a contract with the Turkish outfit for rest of the season.
Igor Milosevic arrives to Trabzon from Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius, where he started this season. He appeared six times in Euroleague averaging 4.5 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.2 assists. He had almost the same numbers in Lithuanian championship. Milosevic split last season between Marousi and Lietuvos Rytas. With the Greek squad he had 3 ppg and 1.9 apg for 9 Euroleague games. In 2008/09, Milosevic was a member of Olympiakos but he had very limited playing time. In the past, he also played for Crvena Zvezda Belgrade and Iraklis Thessaloniki.
Igor Milosevic was a member of the Greek B National Team in 2009 and he also played for their U18 and U20 National Teams in the past.

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


Standings - EBS Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
North Conference
 1. Killester 10-1 
 2. DCU Saints 6-6 
 3. UCD Marian 5-7 
 4. Belfast Star 3-6 
 5. Ulster Elks 2-9 
South Conference
 1. UL Eagles 9-2 
 2. UCC Demons 7-3 
 3. Neptune 7-5 
 4. Moycullen 1-11 


SuperLeague Round 12: DCU Saints hand first loss to Dart Killester - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Dart Killester (10-1) in Dublin on Sunday night. Visitors were defeated by second ranked DCU Saints (6-6) 88-81. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Dart Killester. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. DCU Saints forced 22 Dart Killester turnovers and outrebounded them 46-30 including a 22-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for DCU Saints especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 62.5 percentage. It was a good game for Latvian center Martins Provizors (202-87) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international guard Emmett Donnelly (186-78) contributed with 15 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals for the winners. Naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) replied with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds for Dart Killester. DCU Saints maintains second position with 6-6 record having three points less than leader UL Eagles. Defending champion Dart Killester still keeps top place with one game lost. DCU Saints are looking forward to face league's leader UL Eagles in Limerick in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Dart Killester will play at home against Belfast Star and is hoping to win this game.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Cork: UCC Demons (#2) and Neptune (#3). UCC Demons (7-3) smashed visiting Neptune (7-5) by 18 points 86-68. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Marcus Van (201-85, college: Cent.Michigan) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 15 rebounds and Kyle Hosford who added 17 points during the contest. UCC Demons' coach Paul Kelleher allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was Grenadian forward Michael Bonaparte (196-82, college: Coll.of the Ozarks) with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 15 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). UCC Demons maintains second position with 7-3 record having four points less than leader UL Eagles. Neptune at the other side keeps the third place with five games lost. UCC Demons will play against Moycullen (#4) at home in the next round. Neptune will have a break next round.
An interesting game for UL Eagles (9-2) which played road game in Moycullen against 4th ranked Moycullen (1-11). First ranked UL Eagles had an easy win 79-45. The winners were led by Cameron Mitchell who had that evening a double-double by scoring 30 points and 18 rebounds. Even 16 points and 6 rebounds by Mason Ambler did not help to save the game for Moycullen. Moycullen's coach Enda Byrt gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. UL Eagles has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-2 record. Moycullen lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with 11 games lost. UL Eagles will meet league's second-placed DCU Saints in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play against the league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for UCC Demons (7-3) which hosted in Cork one of their biggest challengers UCD Marian (5-7). Second ranked UCC Demons managed to get a 11-point victory 80-69. UCC Demons maintains second position with 7-3 record having four points less than leader UL Eagles. UCD Marian lost third consecutive game. They keep the third place with seven games lost. UCC Demons' next round opponent will be Moycullen (#4) at home. UCD Marian will play against Ulster Elks and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 12 Ulster Elks was beaten by Neptune on the road 74-56.

Moycullen - UL Eagles 45-79

An interesting game for UL Eagles (9-2) which played road game in Moycullen against 4th ranked Moycullen (1-11). First ranked UL Eagles had an easy win 79-45. UL Eagles dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Moycullen's 30. UL Eagles outrebounded Moycullen 41-26 including a 30-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. The winners were led by American power forward Cameron Mitchell (201-88, college: Willamette, agency: N.E.T.) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 30 points and 18 rebounds and the former international forward Stephen King (196-86) supported him with 10 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. Even 16 points and 6 rebounds by American forward Mason Ambler (198-85, college: Coker, agency: R.H.Consultancy) did not help to save the game for Moycullen. Guard Michael Dowd (178-87) added 9 points and 6 rebounds. Moycullen's coach Enda Byrt gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. UL Eagles has a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-2 record. Moycullen lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with 11 games lost. UL Eagles will meet league's second-placed DCU Saints in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Moycullen will play against the league's second-placed UCC Demons in Cork and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
UL Eagles: C.Mitchell 30+18reb+3ast, M.Hall 16+1reb, S.King 10+7reb+7ast, R.Lynch 8+2reb, C.White 7+4reb+1ast, C.Cuffe 4+4reb+1ast
Moycullen: M.Ambler 16+6reb+2ast, M.Dowd 9+6reb+2ast, D.Cunningham 6+1reb+1ast, J.Loughnane 4+1ast, J.Cunningham 3+3reb+2ast, C.Nihill 3+1reb
gschID: 107962


Neptune - Ulster Elks 74-56

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Neptune (7-5) beat 5th ranked Ulster Elks (2-9) in Cork 74-56. Neptune forced 26 Ulster Elks turnovers and outrebounded them 43-27 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. They brought some defensive toughness making 9 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Gerard Noonan (180-82) who scored 20 points and 6 rebounds. Swingman Philip Taylor (196-86, college: Genesee CC) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Four Neptune players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was swingman Kevin Foley (193-83) who recorded 24 points and Benjamin De La Cruz added 11 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. Neptune maintains third position with 7-5 record having just two points less than leader UL Eagles. Ulster Elks at the other side keep the fifth place with nine games lost. Neptune will have a break next round. Ulster Elks will play on the road against UCD Marian (#3) in Dublin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Neptune: G.Noonan 20+6reb+3ast, P.Taylor 12+11reb+2ast, J.Kamara 11+10reb, G.Walsh 11+2reb+4ast, M.Bonaparte 9+4reb, J.Wilkinson 5+1reb
Ulster Elks: K.Foley 24+3reb+3ast, B.De La Cruz 11+9reb+4ast, C.McEvilly 9+5reb+2ast, C.O'Dornan 5+2reb+2ast, P.McGaharan 4+5reb+2ast, S.Crothers 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 107963


DCU Saints - Killester 88-81

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Dart Killester (10-1) in Dublin on Sunday night. Visitors were defeated by second ranked DCU Saints (6-6) 88-81. It ended at the same time the ten-game winning streak of Dart Killester. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. DCU Saints forced 22 Dart Killester turnovers and outrebounded them 46-30 including a 22-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for DCU Saints especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 62.5 percentage. It was a good game for Latvian center Martins Provizors (202-87) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international guard Emmett Donnelly (186-78) contributed with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals for the winners. Naturalized American forward Jermaine Turner (195-74, college: Dowling) replied with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds and the former international guard Issac Westbrooks (190-85) added 20 points in the effort for Dart Killester. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. DCU Saints maintains second position with 6-6 record having three points less than leader UL Eagles. Defending champion Dart Killester still keeps top place with one game lost. DCU Saints are looking forward to face league's leader UL Eagles in Limerick in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Dart Killester will play at home against Belfast Star and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
DCU Saints: M.Nagle 19+3reb+1ast, M.Provizors 19+14reb+5ast, E.Donnelly 15+12reb+6ast, E.Darling 15+4reb+1ast, J.Donnelly 9+3reb+3ast, P.Glover 6+4reb+2ast
Killester: J.Turner 23+10reb+3ast, I.Westbrooks 20+3reb+3ast, P.Madsen 12+4reb, M.Goj 10+1reb, D.Sealy 8+2reb, K.O'Brien 7+4reb+1ast
gschID: 107964


UCC Demons - UCD Marian 80-69

An interesting game for UCC Demons (7-3) which hosted in Cork one of their biggest challengers UCD Marian (5-7). Second ranked UCC Demons managed to get a 11-point victory 80-69. UCC Demons maintains second position with 7-3 record having four points less than leader UL Eagles. UCD Marian lost third consecutive game. They keep the third place with seven games lost. UCC Demons' next round opponent will be Moycullen (#4) at home. UCD Marian will play against Ulster Elks and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 107965


UCC Demons - Neptune 86-68

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Cork: UCC Demons (#2) and Neptune (#3). UCC Demons (7-3) smashed visiting Neptune (7-5) by 18 points 86-68. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Marcus Van (201-85, college: Cent.Michigan) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 15 rebounds and Kyle Hosford (-89) who added 17 points during the contest. UCC Demons' coach Paul Kelleher allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was Grenadian forward Michael Bonaparte (196-82, college: Coll.of the Ozarks) with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 15 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) and swingman Philip Taylor (196-86, college: Genesee CC) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds. UCC Demons maintains second position with 7-3 record having four points less than leader UL Eagles. Neptune at the other side keeps the third place with five games lost. UCC Demons will play against Moycullen (#4) at home in the next round. Neptune will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
UCC Demons: M.Van 24+15reb, K.Hosford 17+2reb+3ast, C.O'Sullivan 16+1reb+4ast, N.Murphy 9+3reb, D.O'Sullivan 6+2reb, S.Coughlan 6+6reb+2ast
Neptune: M.Bonaparte 29+15reb+1ast, P.Taylor 19+12reb+1ast, G.Walsh 8+2ast, G.Noonan 7+7reb+2ast, J.Kamara 2+3reb, D.Cronin 2+2reb+2ast
gschID: 119426




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


Israeli Premier League round 12 best performance: Doron Perkins - by Eurobasket News
American guard Doron Perkins (188-G-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Maccabi T-A, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 28-year old player was the main contributor (22 points, eight rebounds and three assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Hapoel J-M (#3, 7-5) 84-73. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Maccabi T-A to consolidate first place in the Israeli Premier League. Maccabi T-A has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 11-1. In the team's last game Perkins had a remarkable three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. It's his second year at Maccabi T-A and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Doron Perkins averages this season 13.6ppg and 4.3apg.

The second best player in last round's games was 36-year old American Rahshon Turner (201-F-75, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) of Ironi Ashkelon. Turner had a very good evening with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists. Bad luck as Ironi Ashkelon was edged by the higher-ranked Galil Gilboa (#4, 7-5) 80-76. Ironi Ashkelon are still at the very bottom. 9 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Ironi Ashkelon managed to get this year. Turner is a newcomer at Ironi Ashkelon, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.6ppg (#4). He also registered 7.4 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Frank Robinson (193-G-84, agency: Priority Sports) of Maccabi Haifa (#9). Robinson showcased his all-around game by recording 25 points, six rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of Maccabi Haifa, leading his team to a 91-83 win against slightly higher-ranked Elitzur Netanya (#8, 4-8). The chances of Maccabi Haifa not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 7 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Robinson could try to bring Maccabi Haifa's a little bit higher in the standings. Robinson has a very solid season. In 9 games in Israel he scored 12.9ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Romeo Travis (201-F-84) of Elitzur Netanya - 24 points and 7 rebounds
5. Dwayne Mitchell (194-G-82) of Maccabi Rishon - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Josh Duncan (204-F/C-86) of Maccabi Ashdod - 22 points and 9 rebounds
7. Robert Hite (188-G-84) of Hapoel Holon - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Kasib Powell (201-F-81) of Hapoel Holon - 17 points and 9 rebounds
9. Meir Tapiro (194-G-75) of Maccabi Ashdod - 12 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Marco Killingsworth (203-F-82) of Maccabi Haifa - 19 points and 5 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)

Maccabi T"A, Barcelona, Olimpija Ljubljana & Lottomatica Roma in Bracket F - by David Pick
It was an enjoyable afternoon in down town Tel-Aviv as the Maccabi T'A players and team organization watched the Euroleague Top16 draw live, on a big screen at the Nike center. Smiles were seen everywhere and the main question was which former Maccabi player was to return to NOKIA arena. The concluded answer was Chrystal clear the former stars that will stand in the way of David Blatt's troops are Alan Anderson and Terence Morris, of the Euroleague defending champs Regal FC Barcelona, who will host Maccabi for the first game January 20th. Other contenders in bracket F include Union Olimpija Ljubljana and Lottomatica Virtus Roma.

Barcelona are favorites of winning back to back championships, and some people even have an interest of seeing them play in the Finals because they are the hosts of this years Final4, which makes things even tougher for us to compete against, said Maccabi head coach David Blatt after the lottery.
'To get a team like Barcelona now in the Top16 isn't the best thing for us; however, we wont have to meet them in the next round. As a team their very competitive and have a deep roster'.

Maccabi's coach also shared his thoughts about meeting Ljubljana: Every year there are teams like Partizan or Ljubljana who go above and beyond expectations and excel at surprising. Last year, no one would have believed that Partizan would make it to Final Four, now its the same story with Ljubljana. They have a great team and showed it when they beat Panathinaikos. At this level of competition, every game is difficult.

Maccabi's leading guard Doron Perkins, who will play the second Top 16 round of his career said: Its not going to be easy at all, but I think we got a fair draw and it will be a new challenge for us. Were going to take the good things from the last round and learn from them. Personally, I learned a lot this last season, and I know that every bit of experience helps in the Top 16.

Stats Leaders - National League
Points Per Game
 Brian ASBURY
  Hapoel T-A
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 28
 1. Asbury, Hapoel T-A28.0 
 2. Hall, Beer Yaakov25.1 
 3. Miller, Megido/Y.24.3 
 4. Gomez, Beer Yaakov23.3 
 5. Webb, Hapoel Tivon22.7 
 6. Tramiel, Kohav Yair22.6 
 7. Johnson, Ironi N.22.0 
 8. Clemente, Megido.21.9 
 9. Young, Hod Hasharon21.3 
 10. Dobie, Lev Hasharon21.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason JOHNSON
  Ironi Nahariya
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 13.6
 1. Johnson, Ironi N.13.6 
 2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.11.8 
 3. Brandy, Hod H.11.0 
 4. Clemente, Megido.10.2 
 5. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.9.6 
 6. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne9.6 
 7. Tramiel, Kohav Yair9.3 
 8. Webb, Hapoel Tivon9.0 
 9. McFarlin, Lev H.9.0 
 10. Paris, Hapoel Beeri8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Yoad BET-YOSEF
  Beer Yaakov
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Bet-Yosef, Beer Y.8.5 
 2. Lahat, Hapoel T-A8.0 
 3. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula6.2 
 4. Dobie, Lev Hasharon5.8 
 5. Farhi, Beer Yaakov5.5 
 6. Harush, Kohav Yair5.5 
 7. Timor, Hapoel Tivon5.3 
 8. Housman, Hapoel T.5.2 
 9. Berkowitz, Elitzu.5.1 
 10. Delaney, Maccabi .4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Nate MILLER
  Megido/Yokneam
  (193-F-87)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Miller, Megido/Y.3.4 
 2. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula3.2 
 3. Bet-Yosef, Beer Y.2.8 
 4. Naor, Hapoel T-A2.6 
 5. Bassett, Ironi R.2.5 
 6. Harush, Kohav Yair2.4 
 7. Stevens, Hapoel T.2.3 
 8. Shtarkman, Megido.2.3 
 9. Webb, Hapoel Tivon2.2 
 10. Hofman, Elitzur .2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Rodney WEBB
  Maccabi Haifa
  (200-F-83)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Webb, Hapoel Tivon2.2 
 2. Aidan, Hapoel Beeri2.2 
 3. Utter, Hapoel T-A1.9 
 4. Rosefelt, Ironi R.1.9 
 5. Hugee, Hapoel Afula1.8 
 6. Johnson, Ironi N.1.6 
 7. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne1.5 
 8. Brandy, Hod H.1.5 
 9. Lewis, Ironi R.1.3 
 10. Asbury, Hapoel T-A1.2 


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


Gallinari out 2-3 weeks with sprained knee - by Eurobasket News
The New York Knicks say forward Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) is expected to miss two to three weeks with a sprained left knee.

Gallinari was hurt Sunday during the fourth quarter of a 98-92 victory over Indiana when Pacers swingman Brandon Rush lost his balance after driving for a layup and his right shoulder collided with Gallinari's knee.

Gallinari said after the game he didn't think the injury was much to worry about, and an MRI exam on Monday confirmed it was only a mild sprain.

The forward from Italy is fourth on the team with 15.3 points per game.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Milano changes coach - by Gianni Pascucci
The loss suffered to Bennet Cantu and the bad performing of the last weeks forced Armani Jeans Milano team officials to fire coach Pier Luigi Bucchi yesterday. The name of the man chosen to replace him on one of the most 'pressured' benches of Italian basketball is a true surprise: Dan Peterson , who will turn 75 on next sunday, but who should accept the position in few hours. Peteson is one of the most succesful coaches in Italian basketball, but had retired from active coaching in 1987. He was working as TV commentator in Milano, where he lives.

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


BJ League Round 23: Fukuoka Rizing defeats Oita Heat Devils in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
Sixth-ranked Oita Heat Devils (9-13) gave a tough game to fourth ranked Fukuoka Rizing (15-9) on Sunday. Fukuoka Rizing managed to secure only three-point victory 66-63. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Oita Heat Devils. The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 45-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely Oita Heat Devils outrebounded Fukuoka Rizing 46-26 including a 17-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for guard Nile Murry (193-83, college: TCU) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Swingman Michael Parker (200-81, college: Evergreen St.) helped adding 17 points and 9 rebounds. Forward Damian Johnson (201-87, college: Minnesota, agency: Edge Sports) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists. Fukuoka Rizing moved-up to second place. Oita Heat Devils at the other side keep the sixth position with 13 games lost. Fukuoka Rizing are looking forward to face league's second-placed Sendai 89ers on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Oita Heat Devils will play against Tokyo Apache (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked Okinawa GK (14-10) against fifth ranked Kyoto Hannaryz (12-12) on Monday night. Host Okinawa GK was defeated by fifth ranked Kyoto Hannaryz (12-12) in a tough game in Okinawa 76-82. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. It was an exceptional evening for guard Wendell White (198-84, college: UNLV) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds. Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf accounted for 24 points. Swingman Carlos Dixon (202-81, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Strategic Sports) came up with 26 points and 6 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) for Okinawa GK in the defeat. Okinawa GK's coach Dai Oketani rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kyoto Hannaryz maintains fifth place with 12-12 record. Okinawa GK at the other side dropped to the fourth position with ten games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Third ranked Okinawa GK (14-10) beat at home 5th ranked Kyoto Hannaryz (12-12) by 9 points 88-79, which is the biggest margin this round on Sunday night. The best player for the winners was David Palmer who scored 22 points and 7 rebounds. Okinawa GK's coach Dai Oketani used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Wendell White produced a double-double by scoring 23 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for the guests. Despite that victory Okinawa GK went down to fourth position due to points difference. Loser Kyoto Hannaryz keeps the fifth place with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

In the last game of round 23 Oita H.Devils lost to Fukuoka Rizing on the opponent's court 88-93.

Fukuoka Rizing - Oita H.Devils 66-63

Sixth-ranked Oita Heat Devils (9-13) gave a tough game to fourth ranked Fukuoka Rizing (15-9) on Sunday. Fukuoka Rizing managed to secure only three-point victory 66-63. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Oita Heat Devils. The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 45-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely Oita Heat Devils outrebounded Fukuoka Rizing 46-26 including a 17-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for guard Nile Murry (193-83, college: TCU) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Swingman Michael Parker (200-81, college: Evergreen St.) helped adding 17 points and 9 rebounds. Four Fukuoka Rizing players scored in double figures. Forward Damian Johnson (201-87, college: Minnesota, agency: Edge Sports) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Matt Lottich (193-82, college: Stanford) scored 15 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Fukuoka Rizing moved-up to second place. Oita Heat Devils at the other side keep the sixth position with 13 games lost. Fukuoka Rizing are looking forward to face league's second-placed Sendai 89ers on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Oita Heat Devils will play against Tokyo Apache (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fukuoka Rizing: N.Murry 17+8reb+7ast, M.Parker 17+9reb, T.Cordeiro 12+1reb+1ast, A.Takeno 10+2reb+2ast, M.Kano 4+1reb+2ast, J.Nakanishi 3+1reb+2ast
Oita H.Devils: D.Johnson 17+15reb+5ast, M.Lottich 15+6reb+4ast, H.Sato 10+5reb+3ast, T.Finger 8+8reb+1ast, K.Sato 6+1reb+1ast, R.Howell 5+8reb
gschID: 105892


Okinawa GK - Kyoto Hannaryz 88-79

Third ranked Okinawa GK (14-10) beat at home 5th ranked Kyoto Hannaryz (12-12) by 9 points 88-79, which is the biggest margin this round on Sunday night. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 28-13. But Kyoto Hannaryz won second period 23-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Okinawa GK made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American forward David Palmer (201-82, college: S.Utah) who scored 22 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Tsubasa Yonamine (173-83) chipped in 8 points, 9 rebounds and 9 assists. Four Okinawa GK players scored in double figures. Okinawa GK's coach Dai Oketani used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Wendell White (198-84, college: UNLV) produced a double-double by scoring 23 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and Trinidad and Tobago power forward Kibwe Trim (208-84, college: Sacred Heart) added 22 points and 12 rebounds respectively for the guests. Despite that victory Okinawa GK went down to fourth position due to points difference. Loser Kyoto Hannaryz keeps the fifth place with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Okinawa GK: D.Palmer 22+7reb, J.Newton 14+10reb+1ast, S.Kinjo 13+2reb+2ast, A.McHenry 12+7reb+3ast, T.Yonamine 8+9reb+9ast, A.Kuso 6+5reb+1ast
Kyoto Hannaryz: W.White 23+11reb+4ast, K.Trim 22+12reb, M.Abdul-Rauf 16+3reb+1ast, T.Kawabe 6+2reb, K.Setoyama 5+3reb+1ast, T.Murakami 4+1ast
gschID: 105893


Fukuoka Rizing - Oita H.Devils 93-88

Rather expected game when 6th ranked Oita Heat Devils (9-13) were defeated on the road by fourth ranked Fukuoka Rizing (15-9) 93-88 on Monday. Oita Heat Devils trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 28-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 88-93 at the end of the game. Fukuoka Rizing forced 20 Oita Heat Devils turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was swingman Michael Parker (200-81, college: Evergreen St.) who scored 30 points. Guard Nile Murry (193-83, college: TCU) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. Guard Matt Lottich (193-82, college: Stanford) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists and forward Damian Johnson (201-87, college: Minnesota, agency: Edge Sports) added 17 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals respectively for the guests. Five Fukuoka Rizing and four Oita Heat Devils players scored in double figures. Fukuoka Rizing moved-up to second place. Loser Oita Heat Devils keep the sixth position with 13 games lost. Fukuoka Rizing will meet league's second-placed Sendai 89ers on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Oita Heat Devils will play against Tokyo Apache (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fukuoka Rizing: M.Parker 30+4reb+2ast, D.Kimizuka 16+5reb+1ast, N.Murry 14+10reb+6ast, J.Nakanishi 11+1reb+3ast, J.Henderson 11+6reb+4ast, A.Takeno 11+3reb+7ast
Oita H.Devils: K.Sato 23+2reb, M.Lottich 21+5reb+11ast, D.Johnson 17+10reb+4ast, T.Finger 13+7reb+1ast, Y.Suzuki 8+2reb+1ast, H.Sato 6+2ast
gschID: 105894


Okinawa GK - Kyoto Hannaryz 76-82

Very important is a home loss of third ranked Okinawa GK (14-10) against fifth ranked Kyoto Hannaryz (12-12) on Monday night. Host Okinawa GK was defeated by fifth ranked Kyoto Hannaryz (12-12) in a tough game in Okinawa 76-82. The guests were already 14 points ahead at halftime and as many as 18 after three quarters before a 32-20 last quarter charge of Okinawa GK cut the lead to 82-76 at the end of the game. Kyoto Hannaryz made 26-of-34 charity shots (76.5 percent) during the game. Strangely Okinawa GK outrebounded Kyoto Hannaryz 54-41 including 18 on the offensive glass. Okinawa GK was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. It was an exceptional evening for guard Wendell White (198-84, college: UNLV) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf (186-69, college: LSU) accounted for 24 points for the winning side. Four Kyoto Hannaryz players scored in double figures. Swingman Carlos Dixon (202-81, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Strategic Sports) came up with 26 points and 6 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) and forward David Palmer (201-82, college: S.Utah) added 12 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Okinawa GK in the defeat. Okinawa GK's coach Dai Oketani rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kyoto Hannaryz maintains fifth place with 12-12 record. Okinawa GK at the other side dropped to the fourth position with ten games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Kyoto Hannaryz: M.Abdul-Rauf 24+4reb+1ast, W.White 23+11reb+3ast, K.Trim 14+11reb+1ast, T.Kawabe 10+4reb+2ast, N.Nakamura 5+4reb+1ast, T.Murakami 4
Okinawa GK: C.Dixon 26+6reb, S.Kinjo 19+1reb, D.Palmer 12+8reb+1ast, N.Kosuge 6+2reb, A.McHenry 4+8reb+1ast, A.Kuso 4+8reb+1ast
gschID: 105895




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


Back To Business - by Nashid Beard
First off, I hope you all had a safe and happy holiday. December was a great month for our team, not only did we go on a 6 game winning streak, we also took top position in LBL. Going 7-0 during December was a challenge handed to us players by our coach at the beginning of the month, I mean we didn't achieve it but 6-1 isn't too bad either. This month is going to be a tough one because we have 9 games with at most 2 days rest in between but our will to win is strong and it shows in our practices. Bruised bones, blood, yelling, and a whole lot of sh*t talking! Sorry for the language but you know how it is when you start to compete, no one wants to lose! We have a couple new additions to our team also, they're going to help us a lot, especially inside. That's all for now, I'll holla....

Latvia U18 record second straight win in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Sweden U18 78:66

Latvia U18 posted the second consecutive victory at the Baltic Sea Cup in Tallinn. They held off their Swedish counterparts for 2-0 record. Ojars Silins (198-F-93) delivered 22 points to lead the charge. Sweden in the meantime fell at 1-1 record.
Sweden got to a slightly better start. They jumped to a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. But Latvia did not allow their opponents to clear off in the second term. Moreover Sweden held just a one-point lead at the interval 36:35. Latvia shocked their opponents in the third term. They outgunned Sweden 26:10 to surge ahead for good. Janis Berzins (194-F-93) produced 15 points for Latvia. Roberts Krumins (194-G-93) added 10 points in the victory. Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) answered with 17 points and 10 rebounds for Sweden. Fredrik Andersson (196-G/F-93) finished with 9 points in the loss.

Latvia U18: Ojars Silins 22, Janis Berzins 15, Roberts Krumins 10
Sweden U18: Jonathan Person 17+10 boards, Fredrik Andersson 9


Latvia U16 open win count at Baltic Sea Cup - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16 - Sweden U16 87:57

Latvian U16 selection recorded their first win at the annual Baltic Sea Cup in Tallinn. They toppled Sweden for 1-1 record. Rolands Smits exploded with 19 points and 12 rebounds to propel Latvia to a cruising victory. Sweden on the other hand suffered the second straight defeat.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening stanza. Latvia snatched a narrow 19:13 lead after ten minutes. But they stepped on the gas in the second quarter. Latvia limited their Scandinavian opponents to just 11 points in the quarter building a comfortable 43:27 lead. Sweden stopped the bleeding in the third frame. They outscored Latvia to get within 13 points at the final intermission. But Latvia went on another massive rally in the fourth quarter to leave Sweden far behind. Ivars Rihards Zvigurs (187-G-95) had 18 points for Latvia. Davis Geks (182-G-95) accounted for 12 points in the victory. Jacob Johansson answered with 14 points for Sweden. Johan Lofberg netted 9 points.

Latvia U16: Ronalds Smits 19+12 boards, Ivars Rihards Zvigurs 18, Davis Geks 12
Sweden U16: Jacob Johansson 14, Johan Lofberg 9


*****************************************************
  MEXICO   


Cedric McGowan joins Halcones Xalapa - by Eurobasket News
Halcones Xalapa signed the contract with Cedric McGowan (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati). The 25-year-old forward is meant to replace Louis Roe (200-F-72, college: Massachusetts) on the roster. Louis Roe injured his knee and would not be able to help Halcones Xalapa in the LNBP playoffs.
Cedric McGowan started the season in Uruguay. He first signed for Marne but then moved to Sayago. The forward averaged 24.7 points, 9.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game in LUB League. Cedric McGowan can fill in both power forward and small forward spots. He used to play in Finland, Holland and Colombia after graduating from the University of Cincinnati. He was named the Defensive Player of the Year while playing for Kilgori CC back in 2004. Cedric McGowan is expected to debut for Xalcones against Soles de Mexicali tonight.


*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


Gran Canaria hold off Buducnost, complete EuroCup Last 16 picture - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria 2014 - Buducnost 62:60

EuroCup regular season came to an end. Gran Canaria ended it with a narrow home win over Buducnost. The Spanish team thus sealed the top spot in Group C. Buducnost finished in the third position just outside the tournaments Last 16 round.
Buducnost started the game strong. Led by Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) the Montenegrin team put their noses in front. Buducnost earned a narrow 17:16 lead after ten minutes. But Gran Canaria turned the tables in the second quarter. The hosts took over as Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) stepped up for Gran Canaria. The home team limited Buducnost to 9 points in the quarter posting a 38:26 lead at the interval. But Buducnost refused to surrender despite their chances to stay alive in EuroCup were getting slim. The visitors held Gran Canaria to only 13 points and cut the deficit at 6-point mark with ten minutes to go. The Montenegrin champions opened the final stanza on a 7:2 run to get even closer. Buducnost finally surged ahead 60:59 but not for too long. Gran Canaria went deadly from the stripe in the final seconds and stole a narrow win at the end.
Jaycee Carroll provided 21 points for the winners. Xavier Rey (209-C-87, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points for Gran Canaria. Bojan Dubljevic answered with 12 points for Buducnost. Marko Scekic (207-F-81) had 11 points in the losing effort.

Gran Canaria 2014: Jaycee Carroll 21, Xavier Rey 11, Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Princeton) 10
Buducnost: Bojan Dubljevic 12, Marko Scekic 11


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


Wade, Billups earn NBA Player of the Week honors - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) and Denver Nuggets guard Chauncey Billups (6'3''-G-76, college: Colorado) were named the Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for the week ending January 2.

Wade led the Heat to a 3-0 record during the week by posting per-game averages of 36.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.0 steals. He turned in a 40- point, nine-rebound effort in Tuesday's 106-98 win over the New York Knicks. Then registered a season-high 45 points the next night in a victory at Houston.

Billups averaged 25.3 points, 6.3 assists and 3.3 boards in helping the Nuggets go 3-0. He shot an NBA-best .846 from three-point range, hitting on 11-of-13 from beyond the arc. Billups' best game came Wednesday when he netted 36 points in a 119-113 decision at Minnesota.

Other nominees for the weekly honors were Chicago's Derrick Rose, Golden State's Dorell Wright, New Orleans' Chris Paul and Orlando's Dwight Howard.

Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Monday's games (6) review - by Eurobasket News
Utah Jazz - Detroit P. 102-97
Deron Williams (6'3''-G-84, college: Illinois) scored 22 points, including a pair of late free throws, as the Utah Jazz beat Detroit 102-97 on Monday night for their 11th straight victory over the Pistons. Raja Bell (6'5''-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) hit a 3-pointer and sank two free throws to give the Jazz a 100-97 lead with 17.9 seconds left. Tracy McGrady, starting in place of Rodney Stuckey, missed a 3-pointer and Al Jefferson grabbed the rebound to seal the victory. Tayshaun Prince led Detroit with 26 points on 11-of-19 shooting and McGrady came within one rebound of a triple double. He had 11 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds. The game was tied 15 times with 11 lead changes. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Charlotte B. - Miami Heat 82-96
On a day when LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) and Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) split the Eastern Conference player of the month award, the duo delivered yet another road victory and reached a new achievement. Yes, the Miami Heat superstars can put up big numbers together. James scored 38 points for his 10th game of 30 or more and Wade added 31 for his ninth. But Monday night's 96-82 victory over the short-handed Charlotte Bobcats marked the first time they each topped 30 in the same game. 'To look at us in the Boston game earlier this year, we didn't know what each other was thinking,' Wade said. 'Now we're on the same page. Us not being able to play together is not a conversation anymore. I think we do a good job of playing off each other. 'This is what we envisioned and it's starting to come true,' he said. The memories of the terrible opening-night loss to the Celtics and the 9-8 start are fading fast as the Heat cruised to their 18th win in 19 games and 11th straight on the road. Playing for the first time against Paul Silas, his first NBA coach in Cleveland, James scored 26 points in the second half and added nine rebounds. Wade had 18 points in the first half and grabbed 11 boards. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Boston C. - Minnesota T. 96-93
Paul Pierce (6'7''-F-77, college: Kansas) was content to set up his teammates while passing up his own shots. At halftime, Celtics coach Doc Rivers took him aside to remind him of his role on the team. 'I forgot we had Rondo out there,' Pierce said. The Celtics captain scored 15 of his 23 points in the third quarter to help Boston overcome a double-digit deficit - and another double-digit rebounding performance by Kevin Love (6'10''-C-88, college: UCLA) - and beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 96-93 on Monday night. Pierce scored 11 straight Boston points in the third quarter to cut a 10-point deficit in half, then added a jumper to make it 73-70 heading into the fourth. Rondo, who missed seven games last month with a sprained ankle, had 16 assists, and when the Timberwolves played him to pass he made a pair of key baskets down the stretch. 'I thought Paul in the first half tried way too hard to get everybody involved,' Rivers said. 'I told Paul, ‘You don't need to be the playmaker. We need you to score.'' Love had 24 rebounds and 12 points, but he airballed a jumper with a little more than a minute left and Minnesota trailing by one. *Courtesy of www.masslive.com

N.Orleans H. - Philadelph.76 84-77
David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) and Chris Paul (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) have the Hornets on their first three-game winning streak since before Thanksgiving. West scored 17 points and New Orleans held on for an 84-77 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. Paul scored 15 points, using a speedy left-to-right dribble on a clutch driving layup off the glass with just under 20 seconds left to give the Hornets an 82-77 lead. Emeka Okafor had 13 points and former Sixer Willie Green added 11 for New Orleans, which saw a lead as large as 13 in the fourth quarter trimmed to three, at 78-75, on Elton Brand's layup with 3:09 to go. However, the Sixers then missed six straight shots from the field. Brand led Philadelphia with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Andres Nocioni had 13 points and Jrue Holiday and Marreese Speights each had 12 points. *Courtesy of www.signonsandiego.com

Denver N. - Houston R. 113-106
Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) scored 33 points and the Denver Nuggets pulled ahead late in the fourth quarter to beat the Houston Rockets 113-106 Monday night for their fourth consecutive win. Anthony had 11 rebounds and made 13 of 14 free throws to help the Nuggets fend off the Rockets with his eighth game of 30 or more points this season. Nene added 16 points and 11 rebounds and Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) scored 15 points for Denver. Houston was led by Luis Scola with 24 points. Kyle Lowry had 21 points and Brad Miller had 11 rebounds and 10 points. The Rockets took 30 shots from 3-point range, one fewer than their season high, and made 13, topped by four for Lowry. The Nuggets put up only eight shots from beyond the arc, relying on medium range jumpers and lay-ups to outscore the Rockets 46-28 in the paint. *Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Orlando M. - Golde State W. 110-90
Hedo Turkoglu (6'9''-F-79) had 10 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists and Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85) added 22 points and 17 rebounds, leading the Orlando Magic to a 110-90 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Monday night. Jason Richardson scored 20 points for the Magic, who had 66 points in the second half after trailing 53-44 at halftime. Monta Ellis led Golden State with 20 points and Dorell Wright added 17 points. The Warriors played without starting center David Lee, who bruised his back in a loss at Miami and is day to day. The Magic, who were just 3 of 11 on 3-pointers in the first half, hit a flurry of 3s in the third quarter and early in the fourth to easily erase the nine-point halftime deficit. Orlando was 12 of 21 on 3-pointers in the second half. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com



Los Angeles Clippers waive center Jarron Collins - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Clippers have waived center Jarron Collins (6'10''-F-78, college: Stanford).

The team cut the nine-year NBA veteran Monday.

Collins was signed by the Clippers on Sept. 27 and appeared in 19 games this season. He averaged 0.8 points and 0.7 rebounds while playing 7.5 minutes a game.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Bobcats center DeSagana Diop out for season - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte Bobcats center De Sagana Diop (7'0''-C-83) will miss the rest of the NBA season with an injury to his right Achilles tendon, the team said on Monday.

Diop suffered the injury during Friday's 96-95 loss to Golden State and an MRI test performed Monday confirmed the Achilles rupture, the team said in a statement.

The seven-foot (2.13-metre) center, in his 10th season in the NBA, was averaging 1.3 points and 2.5 rebounds in 16 games this season.

Courtesy of http://in.reuters.com

Gallinari out 2-3 weeks with sprained knee - by Eurobasket News
The New York Knicks say forward Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) is expected to miss two to three weeks with a sprained left knee.

Gallinari was hurt Sunday during the fourth quarter of a 98-92 victory over Indiana when Pacers swingman Brandon Rush lost his balance after driving for a layup and his right shoulder collided with Gallinari's knee.

Gallinari said after the game he didn't think the injury was much to worry about, and an MRI exam on Monday confirmed it was only a mild sprain.

The forward from Italy is fourth on the team with 15.3 points per game.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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


VLAD MOLDOVEANU earns the Patriot League Player of the Week award - by Gregory Primus
From the official site of the Patriot League

Vlad Moldoveanu (6'9''-F-American University) earns the Patriot League/Anaconda Player of the Week award after winning Cable Car Classic Tournament MVP honors for averaging 24.0 points and 5.5 rebounds to lead the Eagles to the title with victories over Fordham and Delaware last week. He scored 16 points and pulled in four rebounds in a 73-57 victory over Fordham in the opening round Wednesday, then took over the championship contest the next night with a season-high 32 points and seven rebounds in an 83-71 victory over Delaware. Moldoveanu hit 12-of-20 shots from the field and 3-of-5 from three-point range while also making all five of his free throw attempts in the win over Delaware. He made 56.3 percent (18-of-32) from the field, 5-of-10 from long range and all seven of his foul shots in the two games. Moldoveanu also averaged 2.5 assists in the tournament. He is second in the Patriot League with 20.3 points per game for the season, a mark that is good for a spot in the top 30 of the nation. Moldoveanu earns his third Player of the Week award this season and sixth of his two-year career at American.

source: http://www.patriotleague.org/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/010311aah.html


SJU ambushes No. 13 G'town, now 3-0 in Big East - by Rick Ross
Courtesy of SI.COM

NEW YORK (AP) -- St. John's has been doing some impressive streak-ending lately.
The Red Storm snapped a long losing streak at West Virginia to open the Big East
season and they became the first conference team to reach 3-0 this season when they
beat No. 13 Georgetown 61-58 on Monday night at Madison Square Garden.

That win, St. John's fifth straight overall, ended a 14-game losing streak to ranked teams.
The Red Storm's last win over a ranked team was two years ago to the day over Notre Dame.

This is what I came to St. John's for,' said Justin Browlee, whose rebound basket with
10 seconds to play gave the Red Storm the lead for good. When you get a rebound like that,
a big play, it makes you feel like you were right. Any win over
a ranked team is great but we know we still have work to do.'

Dwight Hardy had 20 points to lead the Red Storm (10-3, 3-0), who are off to their
best Big East start since 1999-2000 when they opened 4-0. They came into this game
off two conference road wins and came up with another solid effort,
especially on the defensive end.

The Red Storm's constantly changing defenses, with a tendency toward zones most
of the time, were so effective that Georgetown's three guards and leading scorers
Austin Freeman, Chris Wright and Jason Clark - were a combined 7 of 25 from the field
2 of 13 on 3s - and had a total of 20 points, 26.1 below their combined averages coming in.

It was Georgetown's second-lowest point total of the season.
The Hoyas had 55 points in losing the Big East opener last week to Notre Dame.
We need Chris, Austin and Jason to score points. That's not a secret,
Georgetown coach John Thompson III said. 'Do we have to find other
ways when they're not putting the ball in the basket? Yes. Do I feel
confident that on nights like this that we can do that? Yes.
I don't think this game was lost because of them not scoring points.
It's plays at the other end of the court that we had to make that we didn't make.

Clark, who scored five of his seven points in the final 55 seconds,
made two free throws gave the Hoyas a 58-57 lead with 23 seconds to play.
The Red Storm called and a timeout and first-year coach Steve Lavin knew what he wanted.

The play was for Hardy,' Lavin said of the senior guard
he says is the best shooter he ever coached, 'to give him space.
Hardy said he had his mind made up to get to the basket
but if the defense collapsed I would have had no problem
giving it up to one of the open players.'

The play never got that far.
Hardy got by Freeman with a move to his right, then left,
but he missed the shot underneath. Brownlee was there to
clean up with his 14th and 15th points of the game.
I seen him driving and I saw three defenders go to block it,
Brownlee said. 'I knew if it was going off it was coming off the rim because Dwight has a soft shot.
I seen it come right to me and I feel like I was in the right spot at the right time.'

After Freeman's short jumper was partially blocked and the rebound was caught out of bounds by Clark,
St. John's inbounded the ball to Hardy, who made two free throws with 2.8 seconds left.
A final heave from just past midcourt by Wright was way off and the Red Storm had a win over the Hoyas,
who had won three of the last four games played here.

I don't think I'm forcing shots. I don't think I'm doing anything uncharacteristic,
just missed shots,' said Wright who missed six of his seven 3-point attempts.
I believe in myself. I believe in my shot.'

Hollis Thompson had 16 points for the Hoyas (12-3, 1-2), who had won four of
their last five and came into this game as the Big East's best 3-point shooting team
(40.3 percent) but were just 4 of 17 against St. John's, including missing seven of eight in the second half.
The nine-man senior class, which has never come close to playing in the NCAA tournament,
is playing like they want to make something special of their last chance.

It would break my heart if I never got a chance to play in the NCAA and put
St. John's where it deserves to be,' Justin Burrell said. 'So to actually see
that game come down, and to see Dwight make that play and Brownlee get the
offensive rebound and we go up to kind of seal the deal for us, it was a dream-come-true kind of thing.



Wisconsin-Milwaukee stops Butler's streak 76-52 - by Eurobasket News
Kaylon Williams (6'3''-G-89) recorded his first career triple-double and Wisconsin-Milwaukee ended Butler's Horizon League record 22-game winning streak 76-52 Monday night.

Williams finished with 10 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists for the school's first triple-double since 1993. Anthony Hill (6'7''-F) scored 22 points, Tony Meier (6'8''-F) added 20 and Tone Boyle had 15 for the Panthers (8-8, 3-2).

Matt Howard (6'8''-F) scored 14 points to lead the Bulldogs (10-5, 2-1), whose last regular season loss in league play came at Milwaukee on Feb. 18, 2009.

The Panthers led 37-29 at halftime before taking command with a 15-2 run midway through the second half. Boyle scored eight points during the spurt and by the end Milwaukee was up 59-38 with 11:11 to play.

Butler, which had won six straight overall, never got closer than 18 the rest of the way and shot just 38.9 percent.

Courtesy of www.cbs58.com

St. John's 5th straight win is over No.13 Hoyas - by Eurobasket News
St. John's has been doing some impressive streak-ending lately.

The Red Storm snapped a long losing streak at West Virginia to open the Big East season and they became the first conference team to reach 3-0 this season when they beat No. 13 Georgetown 61-58 on Monday night at Madison Square Garden.

That win, St. John's fifth straight overall, ended a 14-game losing streak to ranked teams. The Red Storm's last win over a ranked team was two years ago to the day over Notre Dame.

'This is what I came to St. John's for,' said Justin Browlee, whose rebound basket with 10 seconds to play gave the Red Storm the lead for good. 'When you get a rebound like that, a big play, it makes you feel like you were right. Any win over a ranked team is great but we know we still have work to do.'

Dwight Hardy (6'2''-G) had 20 points to lead the Red Storm (10-3, 3-0), who are off to their best Big East start since 1999-2000 when they opened 4-0. They came into this game off two conference road wins and came up with another solid effort, especially on the defensive end.

The Red Storm's constantly changing defenses, with a tendency toward zones most of the time, were so effective that Georgetown's three guards and leading scorers Austin Freeman, Chris Wright (6'1''-G-89) and Jason Clark (6'2''-G) were a combined 7 of 25 from the field 2 of 13 on 3s and had a total of 20 points, 26.1 below their combined averages coming in.

It was Georgetown's second-lowest point total of the season. The Hoyas had 55 points in losing the Big East opener last week to Notre Dame.

'We need Chris, Austin and Jason to score points. That's not a secret,' Georgetown coach John Thompson III said. 'Do we have to find other ways when they're not putting the ball in the basket? Yes. Do I feel confident that on nights like this that we can do that? Yes. I don't think this game was lost because of them not scoring points. It's plays at the other end of the court that we had to make that we didn't make.'

Clark, who scored five of his seven points in the final 55 seconds, made two free throws gave the Hoyas a 58-57 lead with 23 seconds to play. The Red Storm called and a timeout and first-year coach Steve Lavin knew what he wanted.

'The play was for Hardy,' Lavin said of the senior guard he says is the best shooter he ever coached, 'to give him space.'

Hardy said he had his mind made up to get to the basket 'but if the defense collapsed I would have had no problem giving it up to one of the open players.'

The play never got that far.

Hardy got by Freeman with a move to his right, then left, but he missed the shot underneath. Brownlee was there to clean up with his 14th and 15th points of the game.

'I seen him driving and I saw three defenders go to block it,' Brownlee said. 'I knew if it was going off it was coming off the rim because Dwight has a soft shot. I seen it come right to me and I feel like I was in the right spot at the right time.'

After Freeman's short jumper was partially blocked and the rebound was caught out of bounds by Clark, St. John's inbounded the ball to Hardy, who made two free throws with 2.8 seconds left. A final heave from just past midcourt by Wright was way off and the Red Storm had a win over the Hoyas, who had won three of the last four games played here.

'I don't think I'm forcing shots. I don't think I'm doing anything uncharacteristic, just missed shots,' said Wright who missed six of his seven 3-point attempts. 'I believe in myself. I believe in my shot.'

Hollis Thompson (6'7''-F) had 16 points for the Hoyas (12-3, 1-2), who had won four of their last five and came into this game as the Big East's best 3-point shooting team (40.3 percent) but were just 4 of 17 against St. John's, including missing seven of eight in the second half.

The nine-man senior class, which has never come close to playing in the NCAA tournament, is playing like they want to make something special of their last chance.

'It would break my heart if I never got a chance to play in the NCAA and put St. John's where it deserves to be,' Justin Burrell said. 'So to actually see that game come down, and to see Dwight make that play and Brownlee get the offensive rebound and we go up to kind of seal the deal for us, it was a dream-come-true kind of thing.'

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

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


Kano State applaud Kano Pillars BC - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The Kano State government has commended the state owned basketball club, Kano Pillars for doing the state proud over the years.

Speaking recently, the state Commissioner for Information, Internal Affairs, Sports and Culture, Barrister Haruna Isa Dederi reiterated the state commitement to the continuous support for the Pillars who has won the domestic league three times.

The Commissioner though pained that Pillars could not get past the quarter-final stage of the 2010 FIBA Africa Champions Cup for Men in Cotonou, Republic of Benin but still applauded the performance of the side for putting up great performance.

Barr. Dederi thanked Governor Ibrahim Shekarau for his support for the state football and basketball clubs since coming to power and hoped that the next governor that will take over the mantle of leadership come May 29 this will continue with the good work of the Mallam Shekarau administration.

Dederi urged Kano Pillars basketball club to remain steadfast in the coming season of the Nigeria DStv Premier League by defending the title it won in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Pillars finished fifth in the continent biggest club competition and will begin its DStv Premier League title defense later this month.


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


Rainmen sign NBA veteran - by Eurobasket News
The Halifax Rainmen are pleased to announce the arrival of 6'9 245 pound Fresno California native, Torraye Braggs (6'8''-F/C-76, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Xavier).

Since his college career at Xavier University, the Forward/Centre star has enjoyed a seasoned career playing in the top leagues across the globe.

In 1998, Braggs was selected in the second round of the NBA draft by the Utah Jazz, and later went on to play for the Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards and the Detroit Pistons.

More recently, Braggs played for Malvin in Uruguay and for the ASK Riga in the Latvian Basketball League, where he averaged 13 points a game.

'Torraye is a highly skilled basketball player and is a beast in the paint,' said Halifax Rainmen President & CEO, Andre Levingston. 'He is our missing piece, and with him I like our chances with any team in the league.'

Braggs will join the Rainmen's winning roster before the team travels to Quebec for a January 6 match up against the Kebs. Levingston expects Braggs to make his Metro Centre debut against the Lawton-Fort Sill Calvary on Sunday, January 9.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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


Millrats drop opener to the Kebs - by Eurobasket News
The Saint John Mill Rats opened the season with a narrowly fought loss against the Quebec Kebs 100-93 on their home court at Harbour Station before a packed house.After leading 46-44 at the half, the Mill Rats found the Kebs a worthy adversary in a grueling back and forth towards the end of the 4th quarter, with the Kebs prevailing down the stretch.

Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Massachusetts) led the way with 20 points, Marc Egerson (6'6''-G-86, college: Delaware) had 19 and 2 rebounds and Terry Martin scored 18 . Local boy Mike Anderson scored his first 2 points in the PBL in the 3rd quarter. Quinnel Brown (6'6''-G/F-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Auburn) led Quebec with 28.The next game for the Mill Rats is January 6th at 7:00pm versus the Dayton Airstrikers at Harbour Station.

Courtesy of www.millratsbasketball.ca

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


DBE Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ted SCOTT
  SKK Kotwica
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 26
 1. Scott, SKK Kotwica26.0 
 2. Brown, Asseco P.23.8 
 3. Hinson, Polonia Azbud17.8 
 4. Bennerman, Energa C.16.7 
 5. Goffney, Siarka15.7 
 6. Burgess, Zastal15.6 
 7. Hodge, Zastal15.4 
 8. Frazier, AZS K.15.2 
 9. Jovanovic, Anwil15.0 
 10. Kinloch, AZS K.14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Harris, SKK K.10.8 
 2. Burgess, Zastal10.3 
 3. Truscott, Siarka9.6 
 4. NaNa, Polonia Azbud8.4 
 5. Wysocki, PGE Turow7.6 
 6. Easley, Polonia Azbud7.1 
 7. Dylewicz, Trefl Sopot6.7 
 8. Miller, Anwil6.5 
 9. Archibeque, Polph.6.5 
 10. Ceranic, Trefl S.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Jerel BLASSINGAME
  Energa Czarni
  (177-G-81)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Blassingame, Energa C.6.2 
 2. Thomas, PGE Turow5.8 
 3. Milicic, AZS K.5.6 
 4. Skibniewski, Polph.4.8 
 5. Hodge, Zastal4.3 
 6. Brown, Asseco P.4.3 
 7. Thomas, Anwil3.9 
 8. Vaughn, Polpharma3.9 
 9. Hawkins, PBG B.3.4 
 10. Fisher, SKK K.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  PGE Turow
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Thomas, PGE Turow2.1 
 2. Hinson, Polonia Azbud2.1 
 3. Blassingame, Energa C.2.1 
 4. Ewing, Asseco P.2.0 
 5. Harrington, Trefl S.1.9 
 6. Brown, Asseco P.1.8 
 7. Bialek, Energa Czarni1.8 
 8. Thomas, Anwil1.7 
 9. Hodge, Zastal1.7 
 10. Kinloch, AZS K.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Tony EASLEY
  Polonia Azbud
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Easley, Polonia Azbud1.8 
 2. Harris, SKK K.1.7 
 3. Lapeta, Asseco P.1.5 
 4. Giddens, Asseco P.1.3 
 5. Burgess, Zastal1.3 
 6. Hicks, Anwil1.3 
 7. Frazier, AZS K.1.1 
 8. Davis, Energa C.1.0 
 9. Palmer, Polonia Azbud0.9 
 10. Kinnard, Trefl S.0.8 


*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL   


Stats Leaders - UZO Liga
Points Per Game
 Kyle AUSTIN
  Vitoria SC
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 22.6
 1. Austin, Vitoria SC22.6 
 2. Jackson, Sampaense21.6 
 3. Oruche, Ginasio20.6 
 4. Luettgerodt, Sampa.20.1 
 5. Curnell, Barreirense19.5 
 6. Webster, Ovarense18.8 
 7. Shaw, Academica18.3 
 8. Goode, Penafiel17.6 
 9. Brown, Vitoria SC17.4 
 10. Hundley, Lusitania17.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin MARTIN
  Vitoria SC
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Martin, Vitoria SC10.6 
 2. Brown, Vitoria SC9.8 
 3. Momplasir, Lusitania9.8 
 4. Jackson, Sampaense9.8 
 5. Cortez, Ovarense9.7 
 6. Terrell, Porto F.9.3 
 7. Eddie, Academica9.3 
 8. Harris, Illiabum9.2 
 9. Nolen, Penafiel8.4 
 10. Shaw, Academica8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Joao REVELES
  Ginasio
  (187-G-80)
  Avg: 6
 1. Reveles, Ginasio6.0 
 2. Manarte, Ovarense5.9 
 3. Simoes, Academica5.3 
 4. Monteiro, Lusitania5.0 
 5. Minhava, Benfica4.7 
 6. Fernandes, CAB4.7 
 7. Sing, Sampaense4.4 
 8. Felix, Illiabum4.3 
 9. Andrade, Porto F.4.1 
 10. Ogirri, Porto F.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Bobby MADISON
  CAB
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Madison, CAB3.6 
 2. Curnell, Barreirense3.5 
 3. Goode, Penafiel3.3 
 4. Eddie, Academica2.9 
 5. Cortez, Ovarense2.8 
 6. Barroso, Ginasio2.7 
 7. Terrell, Porto F.2.2 
 8. Silva, Barreirense2.2 
 9. Ramos, Benfica2.0 
 10. Gentry, CAB2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Marcel MOMPLASIR
  Lusitania
  (205-C-81)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Momplasir, Lusitania4.2 
 2. Brown, Vitoria SC1.8 
 3. Austin, Vitoria SC1.6 
 4. Jackson, Sampaense1.6 
 5. Coelho, CAB1.4 
 6. Gentry, CAB1.3 
 7. Gray, Sampaense1.2 
 8. Nolen, Penafiel1.2 
 9. Harris, Illiabum1.1 
 10. Stempin, Porto F.1.0 


Barreirense (Portugal) signs Garrison Johnson - by Emiliano
Barreirense/Cidade do Barreiro added to their roster 22-year old American guard Garrison Johnson (6'5''-G-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Jackson St.). Johnson was selected most recently played for the Southern Generals of the (UBA). 'We are very excited for Garrison, said Generals coach John White . Although we wish we could keep him, it feels great to see another guy move on to the next level. In Johnson debut game he posted a game high 25 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assist and 4 steals for Barreirense/Cidade do Barreiro.

In 2010, Johnson was also named SWAC Player of the Year, HM All-American and was selected in the 7th round of the NBA-DLeague Draft. For the Generals he average 12.0ppg and 5.0 rebounds in just 25 minutes of action.

Johnson is now the 25th player from the UBA selected by a international team in the last two season. For more information on the signing of Johnson see link below.....................

http://basket.fcbarreirense.pt/01_Noticias.asp?Noticia=1003


Sergio Correia joins Alges - by Eurobasket News
Sergio Correia (197-F-85) joins Alges to help the team to better their position in the standings. The Angolan player erupted with 13 points and 18 rebounds but it was not enough as the gguests from Torres Vedras outscored Alges 68-40. Fisica dominated on the defensive end, holding Alges to just 6 points in second quarter. They held Alges to an opponent 23.5 percent shooting from the field compared to 39.7 percent accuracy of the winners. Fisica forced 24 Alges turnovers and outrebounded them 42-31 including 31 on the defensive glass. Alges will play against Terceira Basket (#8) in Angra Heroismo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Before that Sergio Correia started for Alges/Tecnitema (Proliga) in 2004 and after 27 games had 11.3ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.1apg,2FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 28.0%. Later his teams were Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves (Portugal-Proliga): 35 games: 10.8ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.4spg, FG: 44.2%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.6%, Casino Figueira Ginasio (Portugal-UZO Liga): 20 games: 4.6ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0spg, 2008-2009: Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves (Portugal-UZO Liga, starting five): 21 games: 7.6ppg, 3.7rpg, FGP: 47.1%, 3PT: 14.5%, FT: 75.0%, Inter-Clube de Luanda (D1, starting five)



*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   


Standings - Superleague A
PBL Standings
 1. Unics 5-2 
 2. CSKA 5-2 
 3. Lokomotiv 5-2 
 4. Khimky 4-2 
 5. Spartak SP 4-3 
 6. Enisey 4-3 
 7. Triumph 2-4 
 8. Dynamo 2-5 
 9. Krasnie Krilya 2-5 
 10. N.Novgorod 1-6 


Stevan Milosevic joins Nizhny Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
Nizhny Novgorod announced signing of Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) for rest of the season. The Russian outfit currently has 1-5 record in the league.
Stevan Milosevic spent last season in France with JDA Dijon Bourgogne. Actually, he played for Partizan Belgrade in January of 2010 and next month moved to Dijon. With the French outfit Milosevic had 11.3 ppg, 9.1 rpg and 1.6 apg for 10 games in ProA. With Partizan he averaged 1.3 points and 2.3 rebounds for three Euroleague games.
Before Dijon and Partizan, Stevan Milosevic split 2008/09 season between Crvena Zvezda and Koeln 99ers. In 2007/08, he was a member of Arkadia averaging 10.6 points and 6.3 rebounds in Austrian league. Milosevic is a product of Buducnost Podgorica, where he spent few years in the past. He will make his debut in Russian league next weekend.

*****************************************************
  SENEGAL   


Bobcats center DeSagana Diop out for season - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte Bobcats center De Sagana Diop (7'0''-C-83) will miss the rest of the NBA season with an injury to his right Achilles tendon, the team said on Monday.

Diop suffered the injury during Friday's 96-95 loss to Golden State and an MRI test performed Monday confirmed the Achilles rupture, the team said in a statement.

The seven-foot (2.13-metre) center, in his 10th season in the NBA, was averaging 1.3 points and 2.5 rebounds in 16 games this season.

Courtesy of http://in.reuters.com

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


Stevan Milosevic joins Nizhny Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
Nizhny Novgorod announced signing of Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) for rest of the season. The Russian outfit currently has 1-5 record in the league.
Stevan Milosevic spent last season in France with JDA Dijon Bourgogne. Actually, he played for Partizan Belgrade in January of 2010 and next month moved to Dijon. With the French outfit Milosevic had 11.3 ppg, 9.1 rpg and 1.6 apg for 10 games in ProA. With Partizan he averaged 1.3 points and 2.3 rebounds for three Euroleague games.
Before Dijon and Partizan, Stevan Milosevic split 2008/09 season between Crvena Zvezda and Koeln 99ers. In 2007/08, he was a member of Arkadia averaging 10.6 points and 6.3 rebounds in Austrian league. Milosevic is a product of Buducnost Podgorica, where he spent few years in the past. He will make his debut in Russian league next weekend.

Igor Milosevic officially in Trabzonspor - by Eurobasket News
Igor Milosevic (193-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) is officially a new member of Trabzonspor. He signed a contract with the Turkish outfit for rest of the season.
Igor Milosevic arrives to Trabzon from Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius, where he started this season. He appeared six times in Euroleague averaging 4.5 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.2 assists. He had almost the same numbers in Lithuanian championship. Milosevic split last season between Marousi and Lietuvos Rytas. With the Greek squad he had 3 ppg and 1.9 apg for 9 Euroleague games. In 2008/09, Milosevic was a member of Olympiakos but he had very limited playing time. In the past, he also played for Crvena Zvezda Belgrade and Iraklis Thessaloniki.
Igor Milosevic was a member of the Greek B National Team in 2009 and he also played for their U18 and U20 National Teams in the past.

Vule Avdalovic wins 3-pts shootout contest in France - by Eurobasket News
Former Serbian National Team player Vule Avdalovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) shined at the French All-Star game which was played last Thursday in Paris. The 29-year-old point guard participated at the All-Star 3-point Shootout Contest and managed to win the first place. Avdalovic smashed his rivals with 21 points in the Semifinals and 19 points in the Final Round. He made 12 consecutive shots in the Semis.
Vule Avdalovic moved to France last summer signing a deal with Cholet. He appeared 10 times for the reigning champion in ProA averaging 11.4 points, 1.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists. His team shares the first place with Roanne. In Euroleague, Avdalovic appeared 10 times registering 8.5 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 3.6 apg. Cholet failed to reach the Top16. They were very close to make it, but Lietuvos Rytas surprisingly beat Regal Barca in Round 9 and it was a crucial game for the Lithuanian squad and at the same time for Cholet.
Before Cholet, Vule Avdalovic spent one season in Meridiano Alicante. From 2005 to 2009 he was a member of Valencia and before that spent many years with Partizan Belgrade. Avdalovic played for the Serbian National Team from 2003 to 2006.

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


Pezinok checked out of the league - by Tomas Kottra
Rumored came true and Basketbal Pezinok is out! Probably because of lack of money, probably because of decreasing interest in basketball amond the city. It was a big surprise for everybody because Basketbal Pezinok is one of the most successful teams in history of Basketball in Slovakia counting in title clinched last season!
Rumors have firstly apeeared in early december 2010 but after that first flash just disappeared leaving calm and peace during Christmas break. Team manager Justin Sedlak have announced just few days ago, that there is no true in news brought by media or fans. Honestly, nobody bieleved in his story.
Jessie Sapp, one of the team leaders has never come back from USA after Christmas holiday but also the rest of the team have to find their employer somewhere else. Reducing the league to ten teams, all the matches Basketbal Pezinok has played will be canceled not causing big changes in standings. The biggest dissappointment may come from Prievidza, because they have won on the hot court in Pezinok just two round ago as the last team in standings. On the other hand, Nitra lost all their three duels so they will come on top of the table lighter by three loses.


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


Happy New Year Eurobasket! - by Aaron Haynes
What's up Eurobasket, Happy New Year!! Its Haynes Aaron (201-F-81, college: Boise St.) back with you after what I have to say was a very blessed 2010 for me. I hope all of you had a great 2010 and that 2011 will be even better for you. In this blog I wanted to talk about the differences in how people and fans view me here in Korea and in the United States. I always get asked that question, so I figured it would be interesting to talk about the contrast between the two.

Here in Korea I guess you could say I'm considered a star. It's pretty cool because almost everywhere I go people know me and want to take pictures or have me sign an autograph for them. Just recently, Dixon Nigel (205-C/F-80, college: W.Kentucky) and I were in the mall here and a man came up to me to tell me that his wife was a big fan and ask me for a picture with her. That expression of approval of what I do for a living may seem small to many but it means a lot to me. For 7 months while I am in Korea, I am recognized for my talents and acknowledged for the tireless hours that I spend in a gym working on my game. I may put a smile on the fan's face but honestly they put a smile on mine as well. Fans here are just like fans at home for the NBA, they are die hard for their team and their team players. That being said, it is kind of an unwritten rule as to how a fan should act when he/she sees one of their favorite players. Some are very outgoing and some are very shy. An example of shy would be when Scot (my translator) and I went to eat at an Italian restaurant. The fan was our waiter for the entire meal and it wasn't until after we had walked out the door of the restaurant that he asked me for my autograph. Those are the type of gestures that we are privileged to as a professional athlete overseas. I dont know about all players' experiences but it is a blessing to me and very much appreciated.

However, how I am seen in Korea is very different then when I'm at home in California. At home I am just Aaron. Most people in the states dont even know the degree to which I play while I am gone and it actually provides me a nice balance between star Aaron and laid back, chillin' Aaron. I enjoy both roles. But for the 3-4 months that I am home, I prefer to be able to just be with my family with no expectation and no required etiquette. I can enjoy life as every normal person does and summer is my favorite season, so I get to enjoy it in a very relaxed manner. When my sisters or mom look at me, they dont see Aaron the athlete...they see Aaron their tall brother who is finally home to hang out. I believe I really have the best of both worlds and it helps me to stay grounded and hungry for more success. To that point, I'm hoping my 2011 is even brighter and I hope that 2011 brings all of you success, good health and happiness. Until next time, take care. AH32

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


English's 33-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old guard Carl English (192-G-81) put on an amazing game in the last round for DKV Joventut Badalona and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
He had the game-high 33 points adding eight rebounds for DKV Joventut in his team's victory, helping them to edge out Unicaja (#10, 7-7) 89-85. DKV Joventut is placed at 7th position in Spanish league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. DKV Joventut will need more victories to improve their 8-6 record. In the team's last game English had a remarkable 55.6% from 2-point range. He turned to be DKV Joventut's top player in his first season with the team. Carl English averages this season 13.1ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Paul Davis (211-C-84) of Cajasol Sevilla. He is American center in his first season at Cajasol. In the last game Davis recorded impressive double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Cajasol lost that game 73-78 to the higher-ranked Valencia (#6, 8-6). This loss caused Cajasol to drop to 12th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 7-7 record is not bad and everything may still change. Davis is a newcomer at Cajasol and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another DKV Joventut Badalona's star - guard Russell Robinson (185-G-86). Robinson scored 16 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was another key player of DKV Joventut, helping his team with a 89-85 win against the lower-ranked Unicaja (#10, 7-7). DKV Joventut needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 8 victories and 6 lost games. Robinson has a very solid season. In 14 games in Spain he scored 10.4ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Justin Doellman (206-F-85) of Meridiano - 17 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Raviv Limonad (192-G-84) of Menorca - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Federico Van Lacke (191-G-80) of Valladolid - 16 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Albert Miralles (208-C-82) of Lagun Aro GBC - 15 points and 11 rebounds
8. Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85) of Valladolid - 10 points and 10 rebounds
9. Cuthbert Victor (196-G/F-83) of Menorca - 15 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Nikola Mirotic (208-F/C-91) of Real Madrid - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists

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

Esteban Batista joins Caja Laboral - by Eurobasket News
Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) will play for Caja Laboral in the reminder of the season. The player has agreed on terms of three-year contract with the team. The Uruguayan centre started the season in Fuenlabrada. He tallied 12.7 points, 8.4 boards and 1.8 steals per game with the team. He is the second best rebounder in the ACB at the moment. It was the second season with Fuenlabrada for the 27-year-old player after he moved to Spain from Argentina. Esteban Batista played for Uruguay at the South American Championship in 2010. He tallied 10.8 points, 11.2 boards, 1.6 blocks and 1.6 assists per game in Colombia. Esteban Batista is expected to join Caja Laboral in the closest fixtures. They visit Lagun Aro on January 9. Fuenlabrada have already started looking for a new centre.


Gran Canaria hold off Buducnost, complete EuroCup Last 16 picture - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria 2014 - Buducnost 62:60

EuroCup regular season came to an end. Gran Canaria ended it with a narrow home win over Buducnost. The Spanish team thus sealed the top spot in Group C. Buducnost finished in the third position just outside the tournaments Last 16 round.
Buducnost started the game strong. Led by Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91, agency: Beo Basket) the Montenegrin team put their noses in front. Buducnost earned a narrow 17:16 lead after ten minutes. But Gran Canaria turned the tables in the second quarter. The hosts took over as Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) stepped up for Gran Canaria. The home team limited Buducnost to 9 points in the quarter posting a 38:26 lead at the interval. But Buducnost refused to surrender despite their chances to stay alive in EuroCup were getting slim. The visitors held Gran Canaria to only 13 points and cut the deficit at 6-point mark with ten minutes to go. The Montenegrin champions opened the final stanza on a 7:2 run to get even closer. Buducnost finally surged ahead 60:59 but not for too long. Gran Canaria went deadly from the stripe in the final seconds and stole a narrow win at the end.
Jaycee Carroll provided 21 points for the winners. Xavier Rey (209-C-87, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points for Gran Canaria. Bojan Dubljevic answered with 12 points for Buducnost. Marko Scekic (207-F-81) had 11 points in the losing effort.

Gran Canaria 2014: Jaycee Carroll 21, Xavier Rey 11, Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Princeton) 10
Buducnost: Bojan Dubljevic 12, Marko Scekic 11


Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Jaycee CARROLL
  Gran Canaria
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Carroll, Gran Canaria17.7 
 2. Baron, Lagun A.16.2 
 3. Martinez, Valencia15.9 
 4. Teletovic, Caja L.15.8 
 5. Mickeal, Regal Barca15.4 
 6. McDonald, DKV J.15.1 
 7. Navarro, Regal B.14.2 
 8. Kurz, Granada13.7 
 9. San Emeterio, Caja L.13.6 
 10. English, DKV J.13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Robert KURZ
  Granada
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Kurz, Granada9.6 
 2. Batista, Fuenlabr.8.4 
 3. Barac, Caja Laboral7.7 
 4. Donaldson, Menorca6.9 
 5. Trias, DKV Joventut6.9 
 6. Doellman, Meridiano6.6 
 7. Miralles, Lagun A.6.5 
 8. Davis, Cajasol6.4 
 9. Wallace, Gran Canaria6.4 
 10. Caner-Medley, Estudi.6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja Laboral
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Huertas, Caja L.5.9 
 2. Rubio, Regal Barca5.4 
 3. Cook, Valencia4.6 
 4. McIntyre, Unicaja4.2 
 5. Ciorciari, Menorca4.1 
 6. Green, Gran Canaria4.1 
 7. Ingles, Granada3.9 
 8. Valters, Fuenlabr.3.9 
 9. Dumas, Valladolid3.9 
 10. Uriz, Lagun A.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Tariq KIRKSAY
  Cajasol
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Kirksay, Cajasol2.4 
 2. Ingles, Granada2.3 
 3. Calloway, Cajasol2.1 
 4. Robinson, DKV J.2.0 
 5. Mickeal, Regal Barca2.0 
 6. Davis, Cajasol1.9 
 7. Victor, Menorca1.9 
 8. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.8 
 9. Rubio, Regal Barca1.8 
 10. Jasen, Estudiantes1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 D''or FISCHER
  Real Madrid
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Fischer, Real Madrid1.9 
 2. Vazquez, Regal B.1.9 
 3. Barnes, Valladolid1.4 
 4. Kurz, Granada1.4 
 5. Andriuskevic., Meridi.1.2 
 6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada1.2 
 7. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.1 
 8. Barac, Caja Laboral1.1 
 9. Majstorovic, Manre.1.1 
 10. Savane, Gran C.1.0 


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


Latvia U16 open win count at Baltic Sea Cup - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16 - Sweden U16 87:57

Latvian U16 selection recorded their first win at the annual Baltic Sea Cup in Tallinn. They toppled Sweden for 1-1 record. Rolands Smits exploded with 19 points and 12 rebounds to propel Latvia to a cruising victory. Sweden on the other hand suffered the second straight defeat.
The teams stayed close throughout the opening stanza. Latvia snatched a narrow 19:13 lead after ten minutes. But they stepped on the gas in the second quarter. Latvia limited their Scandinavian opponents to just 11 points in the quarter building a comfortable 43:27 lead. Sweden stopped the bleeding in the third frame. They outscored Latvia to get within 13 points at the final intermission. But Latvia went on another massive rally in the fourth quarter to leave Sweden far behind. Ivars Rihards Zvigurs (187-G-95) had 18 points for Latvia. Davis Geks (182-G-95) accounted for 12 points in the victory. Jacob Johansson answered with 14 points for Sweden. Johan Lofberg netted 9 points.

Latvia U16: Ronalds Smits 19+12 boards, Ivars Rihards Zvigurs 18, Davis Geks 12
Sweden U16: Jacob Johansson 14, Johan Lofberg 9


Latvia U18 record second straight win in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18 - Sweden U18 78:66

Latvia U18 posted the second consecutive victory at the Baltic Sea Cup in Tallinn. They held off their Swedish counterparts for 2-0 record. Ojars Silins (198-F-93) delivered 22 points to lead the charge. Sweden in the meantime fell at 1-1 record.
Sweden got to a slightly better start. They jumped to a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. But Latvia did not allow their opponents to clear off in the second term. Moreover Sweden held just a one-point lead at the interval 36:35. Latvia shocked their opponents in the third term. They outgunned Sweden 26:10 to surge ahead for good. Janis Berzins (194-F-93) produced 15 points for Latvia. Roberts Krumins (194-G-93) added 10 points in the victory. Jonathan Person (190-G-93, agency: JEMsports) answered with 17 points and 10 rebounds for Sweden. Fredrik Andersson (196-G/F-93) finished with 9 points in the loss.

Latvia U18: Ojars Silins 22, Janis Berzins 15, Roberts Krumins 10
Sweden U18: Jonathan Person 17+10 boards, Fredrik Andersson 9


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jung-Hsuan CHANG
  KKL
  (194-F-87)
  Avg: 23
 1. Chang, KKL23.0 
 2. Tien, Dacin Tigers16.7 
 3. Jones, Taiwan Beer16.5 
 4. Mao, Pure Youth16.0 
 5. Su, Taiwan Mobile16.0 
 6. Gayden, Dacin T.15.3 
 7. Yang, Taiwan Beer15.3 
 8. Chen, Bank o.15.0 
 9. Chien, Pure Youth14.5 
 10. Tseng, Yulon Luxgen14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rashad JENNINGS
  Pure Youth
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Jennings, Pure Y.18.3 
 2. Gayden, Dacin T.13.3 
 3. Jones, Taiwan Beer12.3 
 4. Dove, Taiwan Mobile12.0 
 5. Wu, Yulon Luxgen11.3 
 6. Bailey, KKL11.0 
 7. Tien, Dacin Tigers10.7 
 8. Tseng, Yulon Luxgen9.0 
 9. Faulknor, Bank o.9.0 
 10. Chien, Pure Youth7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Yung-Jen WU
  Taiwan Mobile
  (177-G-82)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Wu, Taiwan Mobile4.8 
 2. Chen, Bank o.3.7 
 3. Kao, KKL3.5 
 4. Chen, Yulon Luxgen3.3 
 5. Hung, Pure Youth3.0 
 6. Chen, Taiwan Beer3.0 
 7. Chen, KKL3.0 
 8. Yang, Yulon Luxgen2.8 
 9. Tseng, Yulon Luxgen2.8 
 10. Su, Taiwan Mobile2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus DOVE
  Taiwan Mobile
  (206-G/F-85)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Dove, Taiwan Mobile3.3 
 2. Chen, KKL2.0 
 3. Bailey, KKL2.0 
 4. Su, Taiwan Mobile2.0 
 5. Chou, Yulon Luxgen2.0 
 6. Mao, Pure Youth1.7 
 7. Lin, Bank o.1.7 
 8. Tien, Dacin Tigers1.7 
 9. Wu, Taiwan Beer1.5 
 10. Jennings, Pure Y.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Wen-Ting TSENG
  Yulon Luxgen
  (202-C/F-84)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Tseng, Yulon Luxgen5.8 
 2. Wu, Taiwan Beer2.3 
 3. Chen, Bank o.2.3 
 4. Bailey, KKL2.0 
 5. Tien, Dacin Tigers1.3 
 6. Gayden, Dacin T.1.3 
 7. Hsu, Taiwan Mobile1.0 
 8. Chen, Bank o.1.0 
 9. Cheng, Taiwan Beer1.0 
 10. Jennings, Pure Y.1.0 


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


Smith's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
26-year old forward Andre Smith (203-F-85) put on an amazing game in the last round for Karsiyaka and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
He had a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat Antalya (8-5) 94-82. Karsiyaka is placed at 5th position in Turkish league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Karsiyaka will need more victories to improve their 8-5 record. In the team's last game Smith had a remarkable 71.4% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Karsiyaka and it's hard to imagine this team without him. North Dakota State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Smith is in league's top in points (8th best: 18.4ppg), rebounds (6th best: 8.2rpg) and averages solid 56.3% FGP and 44.4% from behind 3-point line.

Second best performed player last round was James Mays (206-F-86) of Oyak Renault Bursa. He is American forward in his first season at Oyak Renault. In the last game Mays recorded impressive double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds. Bad luck as Oyak Renault lost that game 65-72 to slightly higher-ranked Mersin (#15, 3-10). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Oyak Renault is still at the dead bottom 16th position. 11 lost games are too many comparing to just two victories Oyak Renault managed to get this year. Mays is a newcomer at Oyak Renault and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.3ppg (#6). He also registered 10.2 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent) of Aliaga (#13). Fitch showcased his all-around game by recording 26 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in the last round. Despite Fitch's great performance Aliaga lost 91-96 to the higher-ranked Banvit (#3, 11-2). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Aliaga not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 9 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Fitch could try to bring Aliaga's a little bit higher in the standings. Fitch has a very solid season. In 3 games in Turkey he scored 23.7ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Gregory Stiemsma (211-C-85) of Turk Telekom - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Baris Ermis (194-G-85) of Banvit - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists
6. James Thomas (203-F/C-80) of Erdemir - 14 points and 16 rebounds
7. Alvin Snow (188-G-81) of Trabzonspor - 27 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Kerem Gonlum (208-C/F-77) of Efes Pilsen - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Ermal Kurtoglu (208-C-80) of Galatasaray - 22 points and 6 rebounds
10. Kaya Peker (207-C/F-80) of Fener.Ulker - 16 points, 8 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)

Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Ali KARADENIZ
  Trabzonspor
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Karadeniz, Trabzons.20.7 
 2. Barbour, Erdemir19.4 
 3. Christopher, Antal.18.9 
 4. Scales, Mersin18.8 
 5. Randle, Aliaga18.8 
 6. Mays, Oyak Renault18.3 
 7. Seibutis, Olin Edirne18.3 
 8. Smith, Bornova18.2 
 9. Gibson, Oyak R.18.1 
 10. Coleman, Aliaga16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nedim YUCEL
  Mersin
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Yucel, Mersin11.3 
 2. Thomas, Erdemir11.0 
 3. Mays, Oyak Renault10.2 
 4. Samardjiski, Olin E.10.0 
 5. Aldemir, Karsiyaka9.3 
 6. Smith, Bornova8.8 
 7. Wesson, Turk T.8.7 
 8. Karadeniz, Trabzons.8.3 
 9. Smith, Karsiyaka8.2 
 10. Ruzic, Tofas8.2 
Assists Per Game
 David HOLSTON
  Karsiyaka
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Holston, Karsiyaka5.9 
 2. Rasic, Trabzonspor5.4 
 3. Chatman, Besiktas5.3 
 4. Ermis, Banvit5.1 
 5. Seibutis, Olin Edirne4.7 
 6. Rowe, Tofas4.6 
 7. Acik, Galatasaray4.4 
 8. Senturk, Bornova4.3 
 9. Iverson, Besiktas4.2 
 10. Akin, Olin Edirne4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Aliaga
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Coleman, Aliaga3.1 
 2. Mays, Oyak Renault2.7 
 3. Waller, Oyak Renault2.5 
 4. Holston, Karsiyaka2.4 
 5. Gibson, Oyak R.2.0 
 6. Iverson, Besiktas2.0 
 7. Rowe, Tofas2.0 
 8. Scales, Mersin1.9 
 9. Chatman, Besiktas1.9 
 10. Shipp, Galatasaray1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Predrag SAMARDJISKI
  Olin Edirne
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Samardjiski, Olin E.2.4 
 2. Stiemsma, Turk T.2.0 
 3. Simpsons, Turk T.1.5 
 4. Likholitov, Besiktas1.4 
 5. Francis, Bornova1.3 
 6. Johnson, Erdemir1.3 
 7. Ruzic, Tofas1.2 
 8. Aldemir, Karsiyaka1.2 
 9. Ogilvy, Besiktas1.1 
 10. Davis, Banvit0.9 


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Utah Jazz saved by Raja Bell against Pistons - by David Edole
By Jody Genessy, Deseret News
SALT LAKE CITY Ryan Seacrest, seated on the front row next to Utah-born star dancer and country singer Julianne Hough, attended Monday's Utah Jazz game.

It might be a good thing for the Jazz that his former 'American Idol' co-star didn't tag along. Simon Cowell might've ripped Utah to shreds for its less-than-inspiring performance against a subpar Detroit Pistons team.

It's also too bad one of Hollywood's hottest new couples didn't stick around for the second half when the Jazz salvaged a sluggish showing by edging the Pistons, 102-97 at EnergySolutions Arena.

The Jazz, with six players in double-figure scoring, made staying until the final buzzer worth it for those of the 19,911 fans who gutted this one out.

'I'm glad that (fans) loved it,' Jazz guard Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) said. 'I don't think any of us were too concerned. We're a team that's been in a lot of tight games this year and we've found ways to do it, so we just kept plugging away.'

Especially in crunch time, when the Jazz have so often shined this season.

Bell, with family in attendance from Miami, had the key bucket in the final minute as he nailed a clutch go-ahead 3-pointer with 50.7 seconds left.

'It was huge,' said Jazz point guard Deron Williams, who led Utah with 22 points and 10 assists. 'It was a big shot, a timely shot that we needed.'

The play was intended to be a pick-and-roll for Paul Millsap, who had 15 points and 10 boards, but the power forward set Bell up as the Detroit defense collapsed in on him. Bell's eyes widened as Rip Hamilton wandered away to help.

'Paul just made a really good pass. . . . I was just hoping he found me because I was wide open and he did,' Bell said. 'He put it on my hands. I've played for many years now. I' ve shot a lot of shots. I like to shoot those. They're fun to shoot.'

Hitting in front of his dad, who gave him some helpful shooting advice a couple of weeks ago, made it all the sweeter.

'It's always fun to make it when pops is here,' Bell said. 'I've got to hear about it on the ride home.'

Better than hearing about a miss, of course.

But the Jazz who also got 16 points from Al Jefferson, 15 from Andrei Kirilenko and a welcome-back 12 from C.J. Miles needed four more clutch shots to wrap this win up.

Following a Greg Monroe dunk that made it a one-point game with 27.1 seconds to go, Bell and Williams then each sank a pair of free throws to clinch the close-call victory.

And somewhere in Utah, Seacrest smiled, no doubt.



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  UBA   


Sloan, Taylor earn UBA Player of the Month honors - by UBA media

Southern Generals guard Michael Sloan (6'5''-G/F-84, college: Clayton St.) and Tennessee Dragons guard T.J. Taylor (6'1''-G-86, college: Erskine) were named the Southern and Western Conference Players of the Month, respectively, for the month of December.

Sloan led the Generals to a 3-0 record during the month by posting per-game averages of 25.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.0 steals. He turned in a 27- point, 7 rebound effort in a 91-81 win over the GIE Morrow Disciples. Then registered a season-high 32 points the next night in a victory at Metro Atlanta.

Taylor averaged 18.7 points, 7.0 assists and 4.0 steals in helping the Dragons go 3-1. He averaging an UBA-best 3.8 steals per game. Taylor's best game came against the VOF Hawks when he netted 20 points and 8 assist in a 89-85 victory.

Other nominees for the monthly honors were GIE Morrow's Jermaine Barnes (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Atlanta Christian), DFW Warrior's Brian Carlyle (6'8''-F-85, college: Montevallo), Central Texas' Daniel Thomas (6'7''-F-85, college: Langston) and Norman's Brayon Brown (6'3''-G-86, college: Oklahoma).

Barreirense (Portugal) signs Garrison Johnson - by Griselle Martis
Barreirense/Cidade do Barreiro added to their roster 22-year old American guard Garrison Johnson (6'5''-G-88, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Jackson St.). Johnson was selected most recently played for the Southern Generals of the (UBA). 'We are very excited for Garrison, said Generals coach John White . Although we wish we could keep him, it feels great to see another guy move on to the next level. In Johnson debut game he posted a game high 25 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assist and 4 steals for Barreirense/Cidade do Barreiro.

In 2010, Johnson was also named SWAC Player of the Year, HM All-American and was selected in the 7th round of the NBA-DLeague Draft. For the Generals he average 12.0ppg and 5.0 rebounds in just 25 minutes of action.

Johnson is now the 25th player from the UBA selected by a international team in the last two season. For more information on the signing of Johnson see link below.....................

http://basket.fcbarreirense.pt/01_Noticias.asp?Noticia=1003


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  UKRAINE   


BC Kyiv parts ways with Antonets - by Alexei Revenko
BC Kyiv waived Dmitro Antonets (197-F-88). In this season he played 19 games in regular season, scored only 1.5 points per 4.5 minutes in the game. Dmitro start his professional career in Khimik-OPZ Yuzny. Last season he played in BC-93 Pulsar Rovno - 12 games. He scored 5.9 points and 1.4 asissts. In the second half of the 2009/2010 season he played in Gryfony Symferopil. Dmitro played 11 games and scored 4.1 points, added 1.5 rebounds and 1.0 asisst.

MBC Mykolaiv parts ways with Igor Loktionov - by Eurobasket News
Igor Loktionov (194-G-86) is no longer a member of MBC Mykolaiv. The 24-year-old Ukrainian guard leaves the club after just four games. He averaged less than a point and one rebound. Loktionov started the season with Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih. With them he had 1.8 ppg and 1.8 rpg for five games.
Igor Loktionov is a product of Azovmash Mariupol, where he played until 2008. Than he moved to Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye registering 3.4 ppg and 1.7 rpg for them in 36 UBL games. Last season, actually in March, Loktionov inked a deal with Odessa. He played 9 games for the club averaging 6.6 points and 1.1 assists.
MBC Mykolaiv currently has 11-12 record in Superleague.

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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Standings - BBL
BBL Standings
 1. Liverpool MT 11-1 
 2. Cheshire Jets 8-3 
 3. Newcastle 7-3 
 4. Guildford Heat 7-4 
 5. Glasgow Rocks 7-4 
 6. Leicester Riders 6-4 
 7. Sheffield Sharks 6-4 
 8. Plymouth 5-5 
 9. Worcester 5-9 
 10. MK Lions 2-4 
 11. Worthing 1-12 
 12. Essex Pirates 0-12 


Stats Leaders - BBL
Points Per Game
 Trey MOORE
  Newcastle
  (192-G-75)
  Avg: 23.3
 1. Moore, Newcastle23.3 
 2. Bell, Cheshire Jets22.5 
 3. Schneck, Cheshire.21.8 
 4. Zabas, Plymouth20.4 
 5. Nelson, MK Lions20.0 
 6. Stout, Sheffiel.19.8 
 7. Harris, Leices.19.8 
 8. Dagostino, Sheffi.19.4 
 9. Smith, Newcastle19.4 
 10. Marks, Plymouth18.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Otis POLK
  Plymouth
  (206-C-88)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Polk, Plymouth10.1 
 2. Durant, Worthing10.1 
 3. Schneck, Cheshire.9.4 
 4. Nottley, Worthing9.3 
 5. Williams, Sheffi.9.1 
 6. Missere, Leices.9.0 
 7. Myers, MK Lions8.5 
 8. Tuck, Sheffiel.8.5 
 9. Rowe, Plymouth8.1 
 10. Dobbins, Worcester7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Trey MOORE
  Newcastle
  (192-G-75)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Moore, Newcastle6.2 
 2. Zabas, Plymouth6.0 
 3. Clark, MK Lions5.8 
 4. Middleton, Worce.5.4 
 5. Patton, Sheffi.5.1 
 6. Marks, Plymouth4.7 
 7. Chapman, Newcastle4.1 
 8. Blount, Leices.4.1 
 9. Harrison, Glasgow .4.0 
 10. Missere, Leices.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Roderick MIDDLETON
  Worcester
  (186-G/F-82)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Middleton, Worce.3.2 
 2. Bell, Cheshire Jets2.5 
 3. Moore, Newcastle2.2 
 4. Harrison, Glasgow .2.2 
 5. Prezzie-Blue, Worth.1.9 
 6. Normantas, Worce.1.8 
 7. Toney, Liverpoo.1.8 
 8. Schneck, Cheshire.1.8 
 9. Adu, Essex Pirates1.8 
 10. Greer, Cheshire.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Otis POLK
  Plymouth
  (206-C-88)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Polk, Plymouth2.2 
 2. Missere, Leices.1.8 
 3. Nelson, MK Lions1.2 
 4. Williams, Sheffi.1.1 
 5. Sturt, Essex P.1.1 
 6. Dobbins, Worcester1.1 
 7. Richard, Newcastle1.0 
 8. Harris, Leices.1.0 
 9. Martin, Guildfor.0.8 
 10. Toney, Liverpoo.0.8 


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


Juan Pablo Silveira can play again - by Sergio Palay



The Ministry of Tourism and Sport of Uruguay through the FUBB reported that the player Juan Pablo Silveira (191-G-86, college: Weber St.), suspended for doping in the 2009-2010 season, has been authorized to practice basketball in Uruguay.

The national team player was suspended for six months and missed the chance to dispute the last South American Championship.

Silveira is not signed by any Uruguayan team this season, so he should emigrate for start playing soon.

Is expected in the coming hours Sebastian Vazquez (195-F-85) also be authorized

.



Hayes leads Cordon to beat Aguada - by Hector Lopez
Christopher Hayes (206-F-87, college: Detroit Mercy) netted 36 points, incluiding 5 out of 6 free throws in the last two minutes, leading Cordon to beat Aguada 82-78 for the third round of the LUB second stage. The score was tied 75-75 with two minutes to play and Hayes scored two free throws to put Cordon on the lead. Also for Cordon, Austen Powers (203-F-87, college: Seattle) netted 19 points. For Aguada Benjamin Puckett (205-F-83, college: Clayton St.) scored 22 points and Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 5 plus 9 rebounds and two blocks. Defensor, the last LUB champions, beat Welcome 106-83. Brian Woodward (191-G-81, college: Rhode Island) netted 27 points, Sebastian Izaguirre (207-C/F-85) 26 and Clerence Matthews (201-F-83, college: Tennessee St.) added 17. For Welcome Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) 20 points and Scott Cutley (196-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) added 11. <<>><<>>

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

  VENEZUELA   


Marinos is waiting for Fernando Duro - by Jonathan Leon
Marinos de Anzotegui announced its new head coach Fernando Duro few months ago, but Mr. Duro has not reported his arrival day to Venezuela yet. Fernando Duro is taking over the head coach position instead Sergio Rouco whom last season took the team to the championship game. There is nothing for sure about Marinos pre-season games due its import players haven't agrees yet with the team, Fernando Duro is still in Argentina and Diego Guevara and Axier Sucre are both in Mexico.




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Women News

*****************************************************
  CHINA - Women  


WCBA Round 9: All hosts won their games - by Eurobasket News
Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

Round 9 in WCBA means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Anshan where host Liaoning Hengye (6-3) beat league's leader Bayi Kylin (7-2) 72-67 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Bayi Kylin. Liaoning Hengye has a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu. Bayi Kylin at the other side still keeps top position with two games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Shenyang who have the same record. Bayi Kylin will play next round against Zhejiang Far East trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Liaoning Hengye will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked Jiangsu Phoenix in Yixing.
The game had a very big importance for third-ranked Shenyang Golden Lions as it allowed them to take a leadership position after previous leader's (Bayi Kylin) loss. Shenyang Golden Lions defeated second-best Guangdong Dolphins in Dandong 83-77. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Guangdong Dolphins. It was a key game for the top position in the league. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Bayi and Guangdong. Guangdong Dolphins will play next round against Heilongjiang Chenneng trying to get back on the winning streak. Shenyang Golden Lions will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Qujing Yunnan at home.
A very interesting game took place in Hangzhou. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Beijing Great Wall (3-6) to seventh ranked Zhejiang Far East (5-4) 58-56 on Saturday evening. Zhejiang Far East moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Heilongjiang. Beijing Great Wall lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with six games lost. Zhejiang Far East will meet league's second-placed Bayi Kylin in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Beijing Great Wall will play against Fujian Nanan (#12) in Putian and hope to secure a win.
Bottom-ranked Fujian Nanan (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 98-77 loss to sixth ranked Heilongjiang Chenneng (5-4) in Harbin. Heilongjiang Chenneng has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 5-4 record, which they share with Zhejiang. Fujian Nanan at the other side with nine games lost. Heilongjiang Chenneng's next round opponent will be higher ranked Guangdong Dolphins (#3) in Dongguan and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fujian Nanan will play at home against Beijing Great Wall (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

In the last two games of round 9 Henan were defeated by Jiangsu in Yixing 88-81. Yunnan beat Shanghai at home 81-65.

Zhejiang - Beijing 58-56

A very interesting game took place in Hangzhou. It ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Beijing Great Wall (3-6) to seventh ranked Zhejiang Far East (5-4) 58-56 on Saturday evening. Zhejiang Far East moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Heilongjiang. Beijing Great Wall lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with six games lost. Zhejiang Far East will meet league's second-placed Bayi Kylin in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Beijing Great Wall will play against Fujian Nanan (#12) in Putian and hope to secure a win.
gschID: 118908


Heilongjiang - Fujian 98-77

Bottom-ranked Fujian Nanan (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 98-77 loss to sixth ranked Heilongjiang Chenneng (5-4) in Harbin. Heilongjiang Chenneng has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 5-4 record, which they share with Zhejiang. Fujian Nanan at the other side with nine games lost. Heilongjiang Chenneng's next round opponent will be higher ranked Guangdong Dolphins (#3) in Dongguan and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fujian Nanan will play at home against Beijing Great Wall (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
gschID: 118909


Liaoning - Bayi 72-67

Round 9 in WCBA means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Anshan where host Liaoning Hengye (6-3) beat league's leader Bayi Kylin (7-2) 72-67 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Bayi Kylin. Liaoning Hengye has a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu. Bayi Kylin at the other side still keeps top position with two games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Shenyang who have the same record. Bayi Kylin will play next round against Zhejiang Far East trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Liaoning Hengye will try to continue on its current victory against fourth ranked Jiangsu Phoenix in Yixing.
gschID: 118910


Shenyang - Guangdong 83-77

The game had a very big importance for third-ranked Shenyang Golden Lions as it allowed them to take a leadership position after previous leader's (Bayi Kylin) loss. Shenyang Golden Lions defeated second-best Guangdong Dolphins in Dandong 83-77. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Guangdong Dolphins. It was a key game for the top position in the league. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Bayi and Guangdong. Guangdong Dolphins will play next round against Heilongjiang Chenneng trying to get back on the winning streak. Shenyang Golden Lions will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Qujing Yunnan at home.
gschID: 118911


Jiangsu - Henan 88-81

There was no surprise in Yixing where 10th ranked Henan Elephants (2-7) were defeated by fourth ranked Jiangsu Phoenix (6-3) 88-81. Jiangsu Phoenix maintains fourth place with 6-3 record, which they share with Liaoning. Henan Elephants lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with seven games lost. Jiangsu Phoenix's next round opponent will be Liaoning Hengye (#5) in Anshan. Henan Elephants will play on the road against Shanghai Octopus (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 118906


Yunnan - Shanghai 81-65

No shocking result in a game when ninth ranked Qujing Yunnan (4-5) defeated at home 11th ranked Shanghai Octopus (2-7) 81-65. Qujing Yunnan moved-up to eighth place. Shanghai Octopus at the other side dropped to the tenth position with seven games lost. Qujing Yunnan's next round opponent will be league's leader Shenyang Golden Lions in Dandong and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Shanghai Octopus will play at home against Henan Elephants (#10) in Jiyuan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 118907




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  ESTONIA - Women  


Sweden U16 needed two overtimes to win the opener - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16-Estonia U16 83:78

One of the most interesting game of Day 1 of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup was between Sweden U16 and Estonia U16. The Scandinavian team needed two overtimes to beat the hosts 83:78 in Tallinn.
The hosts went on a 18-14 lead after the opening quarter and even after 16-17 in the second had 3-point advantage at the halftime. Sweden meanwhile erupted with 14-5 in the third period to grab 6 points lead. The hosts were too far to give up and with 23-17 in the last period they tied the game after 4 quarters. The first overtime brought 9-9 on the board, while in the second Sweden celebrated the win due to 12-7.
Jelena Jakovljevic erupted with 31 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and Sofia Svensson collected 21 points and 14 rebounds. Veronika Mirkovic posted 8, whilst Natalie Kvarnstrom and Cassandra Martinson had 6 apiece. Kristi Tamp ended up with 20 points in the losing case and Tatjana Razguljaeva (172-G-96) had 17. Kadri-Ann Lass scored 16, while Jane Svilberg (178-F/C-95) netted 13.

Sweden U16: Jelena Jakovljevic 31+9 rebs, Sofia Svensson 21+14 rebs, Veronika Mirkovic 8, Natalie Kvarnstrom 6, Cassandra Martinson 6
Estonia U16: Kristi Tamp 20, Tatjana Razguljaeva 17, Kadri-Ann Lass 16, Jane Svilberg 13


Finland U18 rout Estonia U18 in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Finland U18 55:78

Finland U18 rout Estonia U18 in Tallinn in Day 2 of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. Finland celebrated the initial victory 78:55 to improve to 1-1 record.
The guests grabbed 23-10 after the first period and never looked behind in the game. Finland added 26-12 in the second period to take 49:22 halftime advantage. In the second half the hossts played much better and won two frames. At first they produced 17-14 in the third frame and then cut it to the final result after 16-15 in the last stanza.
Ellen Nurmi (182-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Noora Korhonen (182-F-94) notched 15. Meral Bedretdin (174-G-93) posted 14, whilst Elisa Runsas (179-G-94) followed her with 10. Greeta Uprus (175-G-94) ended up with 16 points in defeat, Nele Laurimae had 15 and Ereli Sparks chipped in 7.
Tomorrow Latvia U18 will face Estonia U18, while Sweden U18 will play with Finland U18.

Estonia U18: Greeta Uprus 16, Nele Laurimae 15, Ereli Sparks 7
Finland U18: Ellen Nurmi 17, Noora Korhonen 15, Meral Bedretdin 14, Elisa Runsas 10


Sweden U18 beat the hosts in SK Audentes - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Sweden U18 66:69 (23:20, 10:9, 18:19, 15:21)

Sweden U18 won their opener of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup as they outscored the hosts. The Scandinavian team produced a 69:66 over Estonia U18 for the first win.
Estonian squad started better and reached 23-20 margin after the first 10 minutes in the court. Moreover they added 10-9 to take 33:29 halftime advantage. In the second half the picture had changed and the guests dominated the court. They won the third quarter 19-18 and then erupted with 21-15 for the total win.
Ulrica Holmqvist (184-C-93) stepped up with 22 points and Abigail Asoro (177-F-93) nailed 19. Liis Kundan replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Nele Laurimae scored 16. Janeli Lilleallik (168-G-94) followed them with 12, while Katlin Saat (189-C-93) added 9.
In Day 2 Sweden U18 will face Latvia U18, while Estonia U18 will take on Finland U18.

Estonia U18: Liis Kundan 18, Nele Laurimae 16, Janeli Lilleallik 12, Katlin Saat 9
Sweden U18: Ulrica Holmqvist 22, Abigail Asoro 19


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


Wisla lose Janell Burse, sign Nicolle Powell - by Eurobasket News
Wisla Krakow went through a major change on the roster. They lost Janell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) because of the injury. The centre tallied 10.9 points, 6.1 boards and 1.8 steals per game in PLKK. In Euroleague Janell Burse notched 10.8 points, 7.6 boards and 1.5 steals per appearance. Janell Burse was named the Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Centre of the Year last season.
Wisla however quickly found the replacement. They inked a deal with Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford). Last season the forward played for Fenerbahce in Turkey. She tallied 15.8 points, 4.1 boards and 2.1 steals per game. In Turkish league her stats read 10.8 points, 3.9 boards and 1.6 assists. She also played for the New York Liberty in 2010 season averaging 9.1 points, 4.0 boards and 2.2 assists per appearance.


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


Finland U18 rout Estonia U18 in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Finland U18 55:78

Finland U18 rout Estonia U18 in Tallinn in Day 2 of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. Finland celebrated the initial victory 78:55 to improve to 1-1 record.
The guests grabbed 23-10 after the first period and never looked behind in the game. Finland added 26-12 in the second period to take 49:22 halftime advantage. In the second half the hossts played much better and won two frames. At first they produced 17-14 in the third frame and then cut it to the final result after 16-15 in the last stanza.
Ellen Nurmi (182-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Noora Korhonen (182-F-94) notched 15. Meral Bedretdin (174-G-93) posted 14, whilst Elisa Runsas (179-G-94) followed her with 10. Greeta Uprus (175-G-94) ended up with 16 points in defeat, Nele Laurimae had 15 and Ereli Sparks chipped in 7.
Tomorrow Latvia U18 will face Estonia U18, while Sweden U18 will play with Finland U18.

Estonia U18: Greeta Uprus 16, Nele Laurimae 15, Ereli Sparks 7
Finland U18: Ellen Nurmi 17, Noora Korhonen 15, Meral Bedretdin 14, Elisa Runsas 10


Spigule paced Latvia U16 over the Finnish team - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16- Finland U16 68:56

Latvia U16 celebrated the victory in the opener of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The team rout Finnish U16 squad 68:56 trailing after the first quarter.
It was a tough start as both teams did their best to step in front. Finland grabbed 18:15 after the first 10 minutes, but Latvia enjoyed 35:29 halftime advantage. In the third quarter the winners pushed the tempo for good and reached 47:38 after three quarters. They managed to win also the last period and won the first game.
Ieva Spigule paced all the winners with 19 points and Kitija Laksa netted 14. Vilma Purhonen (183-F-95) finished the game with 16 points, while Ulriikka Latvala netted 10. Veera Kesanen (165-G-95) and Veera Valimaa followed them with 6 points each in defeat.
In Day 2 Finland U16 will face Estonia U16, while Latvia U16 will take on Sweden U16.

Latvia U16: Ieva Spigule 19, Kitija Laksa 14
Finland U16: Vilma Purhonen 16, Ulriikka Latvala 10, Veera Kesanen 6, Veera Valimaa 6


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


Priolo and Faenza rosters moved on - by Carlo Grilli
After Taranto move (Sophia Young (186-F-83, college: Baylor) replaced Brooke Smith), also Priolo and Faenza made recent changes in their rosters. Priolo cut both Zorica Mitov (189-C-87) and Gergana Slavcheva (186-F-79) and signed Sidney Spencer (191-F-85, college: Tennessee), former New York Liberty in WNBA, while Faenza cut Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) and signed Vaida Sipaviciute (193-C-85, college: Syracuse), former Tarbes, Szeged and Arras.
Priolo and Faenza will meet on Thursday, January 6th when the Italian Serie A1 resume after Christmas break.


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


Latvia U18 grabs the second win in Audentese SK - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Latvia U18 64:65

Latvia U18 grabs the second win in Audentese SK of the Baltic Sea basketball Cup. The team improved to 2-0 record after a thriller 65:64 win over Sweden U18.
Latvia started with 18-15 after the first 10 minutes, but did not keep the score for good. The Swedish side responded with 19-13 to take the lead at the halftime. Latvia reduced the gap to 2 points after 12-11 in the third period and won the game due to 22-19 in the last stanza.
Krista Bridina (173-G-94) led the way with 18 points and Agate Geka (169-G-93) nailed 14. Guna Lagzdina (182-C-93) scored 10, while Ance Aizsila (176-G-94) added 8. Allis Nystrom replied with 12 points in the losing effort as Sweden U18 suffered their first loss. Helena Kurt (165-G-93), Ulrica Holmqvist (184-C-93) and Evelina Stromberg (G) all posted 8 each.
Tomorrow Latvia U18 will face Estonia U18, while Sweden U18 will play with Finland U18.

Sweden U18: Allis Nystrom 12, Helena Kurt 8, Ulrica Holmqvist 8, Evelina Stromberg 8
Latvia U18: Krista Bridina 18, Agate Geka 14, Guna Lagzdina 10, Ance Aizsila 8


Spigule paced Latvia U16 over the Finnish team - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16- Finland U16 68:56

Latvia U16 celebrated the victory in the opener of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup. The team rout Finnish U16 squad 68:56 trailing after the first quarter.
It was a tough start as both teams did their best to step in front. Finland grabbed 18:15 after the first 10 minutes, but Latvia enjoyed 35:29 halftime advantage. In the third quarter the winners pushed the tempo for good and reached 47:38 after three quarters. They managed to win also the last period and won the first game.
Ieva Spigule paced all the winners with 19 points and Kitija Laksa netted 14. Vilma Purhonen (183-F-95) finished the game with 16 points, while Ulriikka Latvala netted 10. Veera Kesanen (165-G-95) and Veera Valimaa followed them with 6 points each in defeat.
In Day 2 Finland U16 will face Estonia U16, while Latvia U16 will take on Sweden U16.

Latvia U16: Ieva Spigule 19, Kitija Laksa 14
Finland U16: Vilma Purhonen 16, Ulriikka Latvala 10, Veera Kesanen 6, Veera Valimaa 6


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


Participants for the All-Star Day 2011 announced - by Liz Schmitz
The Federation Luxembourgeoise de Basket-Ball announced the rosters for the North and South Teams for the All-Star Day 2011, that will be held on Sunday, 9th January in Bertrange. Team North will be coached by Roumen Galabov (Etzella Ettelbruck) and Luois Wennig (Rsidence Walferdange) and consists of players from Etzella Ettelbruck (Lisy Hetting (173-G-90), Annick Neiertz (183-F-92), Lynn Schreiner (165-G-91) and Katie Donovan (183-F-82)), AB Contern (Julie Zovile (176-F-92), Stephanie Hinger (167-G-82) and Stephanie Geehan (191-F-88, college: Fairfield)), Rsidence Walferdange (Jill Bausch (176-G-87) and Julie Kremer (177-F/C-87)) and US Heffingen (Lena Hetto (184-F-93) and Christine Spencer (185-G-87, college: UCSB)). Furthermore Stephisha Walton (180-G/F-87, college: Portland St.) from Black Star Mersch will join the team. Team South encloses six people from the team Musel Pikes (Cathy Schmit (169-G-90), Carine Cigrang (175-F-85), Magaly Meynadier (170-G-91), Christine Fisher (183-F-83), Sandra Bertrand (185-F/C-85) and Irina Mazjoukhina (181-F-76)), three players from T71 Dudelange (Carole Sitz (175-G-85, college: Elon), Alexandra Kugener (180-F-83) and Rachel Wagener (168-G-86)), Andrea Haris (169-G-78) from Basket Esch and Romi Meintz (170-G-88) from Amicale Steinsel. Additionally, Ani Petrova (173-G-82) from Black Star Mersch and the american player Rachele Fitz (183-F-87, college: Marist) from Basket Esch join the team. Team South will be coached by Erny Gruskovnjak from Musel Pikes and Jacques Sitz from T71 Dudelange. The squads are still provisional as some last-minute injuries or absences may push the people in charge to change the rosters.

*****************************************************
  NCAA1 - Women  


Kelli Riles receives Week Honour - by George Fragkos
NC-Asheville's Kelli Riles (6'1''-F) has been named the Big South Conference Womens Basketball Choice Hotels Player of the Week, while Emily Frazier (5'7''-G) of Liberty was tabbed The Crons Brand Freshman of the Week for games played Dec. 13-20, the League announced today.

Riles, a red shirt sophomore from Ellenwood, Ga., shot 72 percent from the floor and posted two 20-point outings to lead Asheville to a 2-1 record over the holiday break. She got things going with 22 points on 11-of-13 from the floor and chipped in nine boards and a steal as the Bulldogs downed Mercer on Dec. 22. On Dec. 29, Riles scored 12 points on 44 percent from the field as Asheville dropped North Carolina Central, 67-56. She also ripped down nine rebounds and dished out two helpers in the contest. Five days later in Ashevilles Conference opener against Radford, Riles poured in 20 points on 80 percent shooting and 4-of-4 from the line to go along with 11 boards.

Frazier, a guard from Magnolia, Texas, averaged 10 points on 52 percent from the floor to help the Lady Flames to a 3-1 record over the holiday season, including a win over Big South foe High Point. She notched a career-high 12 points on 50 percent from the floor in a Dec. 21 win over Virginia Commonwealth. Frazier then put in seven points against No. 18 St. Johns on Dec. 28. The next day against La Salle, she reset her career-best as she finished with 14 on 4-of-6 from the floor, 2-of-2 from long range and 4-of-6 from the line as Liberty downed the Explorers, 73-53. She closed the four-game span out with seven points and eight assists as Liberty picked up its first Big South win of the 2010-11 campaign. She finished the holiday break with 10 rebounds, 15 assists and an 86 percent clip from the line.

Also nominated for womens basketball Player of the Week for Week 7: Kelsey Wasmer (5'10''-G-87) (Charleston Southern), Kira Carter (5'7''-G) (Coastal Carolina), Dominique Hudson (5'5''-G-89) (Gardner-Webb), Devon Brown (5'10''-G/F) (Liberty), Brooke McElroy (6'0''-G/F-88) (Radford) and Dequesha McClanahan (5'8''-G) (Winthrop).

Also nominated for womens basketball Freshman of the Week for Week 7: Anicia Dotson (Charleston Southern) and Catrina Green (Gardner-Webb).

Courtesy: UNCABulldogs.com

Baylor overtakes UConn as women's No. 1 - by Eurobasket News
UConn's run at No. 1 is over.

The Huskies' NCAA-record 90-game winning streak ended Thursday night with a loss to Stanford. Their nearly three-year hold on the top ranking ended Monday when they were overtaken by Baylor and dropped to No. 2 in The Associated Press poll. Connecticut had been the top team for a record 51 straight weeks, beginning Feb. 18, 2008.

Baylor, which lost 65-64 at Connecticut in mid-November, is No. 1 for the first time. Star Brittney Griner and the Lady Bears, who received 23 first place votes, next play on Saturday when they host No. 17 Iowa State in their Big 12 opener.

'It's great, positive recognition for our program and Baylor University,' Baylor coach Kim Mulkey said. 'We welcome it as every coach in America does, but we'll keep it in perspective. At this point in the season what does it really mean.'

The Lady Bears are only the second Big 12 team to ascend to No. 1, joining Texas. The Longhorns have done it numerous times, including for two weeks in the middle of February 2004.

'It's just going to be business as usual for us,' Mulkey said. 'It won't matter to this class as they've never won a Big 12 championship or national championship. No. 1, No. 5 or not ranked at all, they're confident in what they want to do.'

UConn, which had been a unanimous No. 1 for all but one of the last 40 weeks, was second, receiving 14 first place ballots. The Huskies host Villanova on Wednesday.

Duke, Stanford and Tennessee round out the first five. The Cardinal moved up five places after routing then-No. 4 Xavier and beating UConn.

The Blue Devils will play No. 10 Kentucky on Tuesday. Duke is one of four unbeaten teams left along with No. 6 West Virginia, eighth-ranked North Carolina and unranked Florida Gulf Coast.

Texas A&M was seventh and Xavier was ninth. The Musketeers dropped five spots after getting blown out at Stanford.

Michigan State was 11th followed by UCLA, Notre Dame, Maryland, and Georgetown.

DePaul moved up five places to 16th despite not playing this week. The Blue Demons' game against NJIT had been postponed because of the major snow storm that hit the East Coast. DePaul hosts Providence before visiting No. 18 St. John's on Saturday. Oklahoma fell four spots to 19th after losing at TCU on Sunday.

Ohio State and Iowa had the biggest drop in the poll, each falling seven spots. The Buckeyes lost to Duquesne and Michigan while the Hawkeyes were beaten by Penn State and the Wolverines.

Texas, Syracuse, Florida State and Arkansas rounded out the poll as no team dropped out of the Top 25 this week.


AP Women's Top 25 (Rank, Team, Record, Pts, Pvs)
1. Baylor (23) 13-1 978 2
2. Connecticut (14) 12-1 967 1
3. Duke (1) 13-0 911 3
4. Stanford (2) 10-2 881 9
5. Tennessee 13-2 827 5
6. West Virginia 14-0 789 6
7. Texas A&M 11-1 778 7
8. North Carolina 13-0 703 10
9. Xavier 10-2 670 4
10. Kentucky 11-1 633 11
11. Michigan St. 13-1 598 12
12. UCLA 12-1 565 8
13. Notre Dame 12-3 486 16
14. Maryland 13-1 470 18
15. Georgetown 12-3 360 19
16. DePaul 13-2 300 21
17. Iowa St. 11-2 297 20
18. St. John's 12-2 287 17
19. Oklahoma 10-3 279 15
20. Ohio St. 9-4 191 13
21. Iowa 12-3 189 14
22. Texas 11-3 162 23
23. Syracuse 12-1 122 24
24. Florida St. 12-3 107 25
25. Arkansas 12-1 72 22

Others receiving votes: Wis.-Green Bay 69, Miami 64, Boston College 54, Arizona St. 38, Southern Cal 29, Georgia 27, Michigan 24, Duquesne 19, Bowling Green 15, Oklahoma St. 13, Kansas 11, Northwestern 6, Texas Tech 4, Marist 3, Florida 1, Florida Gulf Coast 1.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com



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


Dikaioulakos takes Lotos under control - by Eurobasket News
Georgios Dikaioulakos takes Lotos under control as he became the Head Coah of the Polish side. The Greek 41-year old coach will finish the season with Lotos.
Over the last few years he was a Coach Assistant of Panellinios (A1), Apollon Patras (A1) and Panellinios Athens (A1). Since 2008 he was a Head Coach of Athinaikos (A1) women team, but left in May.
Before that in 2006 he went to the States at the training camps of Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks from the N.B.A., and De Paul, Marquette, Northwestern, S. Francis from N.C.A.A. He teaches in many international clinics in Greece and abroad. He teaches scouting in Basketball to the University of physical education in Athens, and to the school of basketball coaches in Greece.
He has written many articles to basketball magazines and newspapers. He has worked at the side of many experienced coaches (Slobodan Subotic, Dirk Bauerman, Kostas Missas, Giorgos Kalafatakis etc). With some of these teams he has participate at the Euroleague, Uleb cup, Fiba cup and with the womens national team of Greece he has participate at the Eurobasket 2007 in Italy.
Lotos meanwhile is 7th with only 8-7 record. The task for Georgios Dikaioulakos is to bring the 'loud-named team' in the top positions.


Wisla lose Janell Burse, sign Nicolle Powell - by Eurobasket News
Wisla Krakow went through a major change on the roster. They lost Janell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) because of the injury. The centre tallied 10.9 points, 6.1 boards and 1.8 steals per game in PLKK. In Euroleague Janell Burse notched 10.8 points, 7.6 boards and 1.5 steals per appearance. Janell Burse was named the Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague Centre of the Year last season.
Wisla however quickly found the replacement. They inked a deal with Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford). Last season the forward played for Fenerbahce in Turkey. She tallied 15.8 points, 4.1 boards and 2.1 steals per game. In Turkish league her stats read 10.8 points, 3.9 boards and 1.6 assists. She also played for the New York Liberty in 2010 season averaging 9.1 points, 4.0 boards and 2.2 assists per appearance.


Stats Leaders - PLKK
Points Per Game
 Laurie KOEHN
  Utex Row
  (173-G-82)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Koehn, Utex Row18.2 
 2. Champion, Inea AZS16.9 
 3. Harris, Utex Row16.3 
 4. Leuchanka, Gorzow14.4 
 5. Kobryn, Wisla C.14.3 
 6. Szott, Artego14.3 
 7. Ross, Lider P.13.8 
 8. Carter, CCC P.13.8 
 9. Cheek, Super-Pol13.7 
 10. Jankowska, LKS S.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ugochukwu OHA
  LKS Siemens
  (193-C-82)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Oha, LKS Siemens9.8 
 2. Leuchanka, Gorzow9.7 
 3. Carter, CCC P.9.1 
 4. Cheek, Super-Pol8.4 
 5. Denson, Lider P.8.2 
 6. Alexander, Odra B.8.1 
 7. Zytomirska, Widzew7.9 
 8. Bjelica, Lotos Gdynia7.7 
 9. McLean, Utex Row7.6 
 10. Jankowska, LKS S.7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Sharnee ZOLL
  CCC Polkowice
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Zoll, CCC P.5.9 
 2. Kulaga, Super-Pol5.4 
 3. Idczak, Inea AZS4.3 
 4. Phillips, Wisla C.4.3 
 5. Richards, Gorzow4.1 
 6. Raymond, Artego3.8 
 7. Jelavic, Wisla C.3.7 
 8. Fox-Griffin, Super.3.7 
 9. Bortelova, Energa T.3.7 
 10. Gawronska, Odra B.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Lidia KOPCZYK
  Widzew
  (171-G-88)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Kopczyk, Widzew2.8 
 2. Ross, Lider P.2.4 
 3. Jelavic, Wisla C.2.4 
 4. Fox-Griffin, Super.2.3 
 5. Phillips, Wisla C.2.3 
 6. Gajda, Energa Torun2.2 
 7. Bednarek, Lider P.2.2 
 8. Carter, CCC P.2.2 
 9. Leedham, Gorzow2.2 
 10. Raymond, Artego2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Agnieszka MAJEWSKA
  CCC Polkowice
  (195-C-82)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Majewska, CCC P.1.9 
 2. Denson, Lider P.1.8 
 3. Perostiyska, Energa T.1.7 
 4. Jankowska, LKS S.1.4 
 5. Irvin, Lotos Gdynia1.4 
 6. Burse, Wisla C.1.3 
 7. Goff, Super-Pol0.9 
 8. McLean, Utex Row0.8 
 9. Cheek, Super-Pol0.8 
 10. Carter, CCC P.0.8 


*****************************************************
  SWEDEN - Women  


Sweden U16 needed two overtimes to win the opener - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16-Estonia U16 83:78

One of the most interesting game of Day 1 of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup was between Sweden U16 and Estonia U16. The Scandinavian team needed two overtimes to beat the hosts 83:78 in Tallinn.
The hosts went on a 18-14 lead after the opening quarter and even after 16-17 in the second had 3-point advantage at the halftime. Sweden meanwhile erupted with 14-5 in the third period to grab 6 points lead. The hosts were too far to give up and with 23-17 in the last period they tied the game after 4 quarters. The first overtime brought 9-9 on the board, while in the second Sweden celebrated the win due to 12-7.
Jelena Jakovljevic erupted with 31 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and Sofia Svensson collected 21 points and 14 rebounds. Veronika Mirkovic posted 8, whilst Natalie Kvarnstrom and Cassandra Martinson had 6 apiece. Kristi Tamp ended up with 20 points in the losing case and Tatjana Razguljaeva (172-G-96) had 17. Kadri-Ann Lass scored 16, while Jane Svilberg (178-F/C-95) netted 13.

Sweden U16: Jelena Jakovljevic 31+9 rebs, Sofia Svensson 21+14 rebs, Veronika Mirkovic 8, Natalie Kvarnstrom 6, Cassandra Martinson 6
Estonia U16: Kristi Tamp 20, Tatjana Razguljaeva 17, Kadri-Ann Lass 16, Jane Svilberg 13


Latvia U18 grabs the second win in Audentese SK - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U18-Latvia U18 64:65

Latvia U18 grabs the second win in Audentese SK of the Baltic Sea basketball Cup. The team improved to 2-0 record after a thriller 65:64 win over Sweden U18.
Latvia started with 18-15 after the first 10 minutes, but did not keep the score for good. The Swedish side responded with 19-13 to take the lead at the halftime. Latvia reduced the gap to 2 points after 12-11 in the third period and won the game due to 22-19 in the last stanza.
Krista Bridina (173-G-94) led the way with 18 points and Agate Geka (169-G-93) nailed 14. Guna Lagzdina (182-C-93) scored 10, while Ance Aizsila (176-G-94) added 8. Allis Nystrom replied with 12 points in the losing effort as Sweden U18 suffered their first loss. Helena Kurt (165-G-93), Ulrica Holmqvist (184-C-93) and Evelina Stromberg (G) all posted 8 each.
Tomorrow Latvia U18 will face Estonia U18, while Sweden U18 will play with Finland U18.

Sweden U18: Allis Nystrom 12, Helena Kurt 8, Ulrica Holmqvist 8, Evelina Stromberg 8
Latvia U18: Krista Bridina 18, Agate Geka 14, Guna Lagzdina 10, Ance Aizsila 8


Sweden U18 beat the hosts in SK Audentes - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U18-Sweden U18 66:69 (23:20, 10:9, 18:19, 15:21)

Sweden U18 won their opener of the Baltic Sea Basketball Cup as they outscored the hosts. The Scandinavian team produced a 69:66 over Estonia U18 for the first win.
Estonian squad started better and reached 23-20 margin after the first 10 minutes in the court. Moreover they added 10-9 to take 33:29 halftime advantage. In the second half the picture had changed and the guests dominated the court. They won the third quarter 19-18 and then erupted with 21-15 for the total win.
Ulrica Holmqvist (184-C-93) stepped up with 22 points and Abigail Asoro (177-F-93) nailed 19. Liis Kundan replied with 18 points in the losing effort and Nele Laurimae scored 16. Janeli Lilleallik (168-G-94) followed them with 12, while Katlin Saat (189-C-93) added 9.
In Day 2 Sweden U18 will face Latvia U18, while Estonia U18 will take on Finland U18.

Estonia U18: Liis Kundan 18, Nele Laurimae 16, Janeli Lilleallik 12, Katlin Saat 9
Sweden U18: Ulrica Holmqvist 22, Abigail Asoro 19


*****************************************************
  TURKEY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Jolene ANDERSON
  Botas
  (173-G-86)
  Avg: 22.4
 1. Anderson, Botas22.4 
 2. Castro Marqu., Besik.20.9 
 3. Ajavon, Istanbul.20.7 
 4. Sales, Besiktas19.0 
 5. Frazee, Botas18.8 
 6. Pierson, Tarsus Bld17.6 
 7. Smith, Alanya BLD17.4 
 8. Akkaya, Samsun17.3 
 9. Augustus, Galatasa.17.1 
 10. Taylor, Fenerbahce17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jessica ADAIR
  Samsun
  (193-C-86)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Adair, Samsun11.2 
 2. Mohammed, Ceyhan B.10.8 
 3. Paris, Istanbul Univ.10.0 
 4. Fowles, Galatasa.8.4 
 5. Larkins, Mersin8.3 
 6. Terry, Alanya BLD8.3 
 7. Pierson, Tarsus Bld8.3 
 8. Anderson, Botas8.0 
 9. Pringle, TED K.7.7 
 10. Sanford, TED K.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Julie MCBRIDE
  Ceyhan Bld
  (165-G-82)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. McBride, Ceyhan B.5.7 
 2. Ajavon, Istanbul.5.3 
 3. Hardy, Burhaniy.4.6 
 4. Boz, Samsun4.1 
 5. Taurasi, Fenerbahce4.1 
 6. Kartaltepe Y., Besik.4.0 
 7. Boddie, Botas3.9 
 8. Canty, Tarsus Bld3.4 
 9. Vardarli, Fener.3.3 
 10. Alben, Galatasaray3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Allyson HARDY
  Burhaniye Bld
  (170-G-83)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Hardy, Burhaniy.3.2 
 2. Ajavon, Istanbul.3.0 
 3. Smith, Alanya BLD2.5 
 4. Jackson, Alanya BLD2.4 
 5. Anderson, Botas2.4 
 6. Sales, Besiktas2.3 
 7. Kartaltepe Y., Besik.2.2 
 8. Currie, Galatasaray2.2 
 9. Alben, Galatasaray1.9 
 10. Vardarli, Fener.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 LaToya PRINGLE
  TED Kayseri
  (191-F/C-86)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Pringle, TED K.2.2 
 2. Ayim, Alanya BLD1.9 
 3. Mokango, Mersin1.6 
 4. Adair, Samsun1.4 
 5. Kraayeveld, Tarsus B.1.1 
 6. Fowles, Galatasa.1.0 
 7. Gezer, Istanbul.1.0 
 8. Coker, Ceyhan Bld0.8 
 9. Pierson, Tarsus Bld0.8 
 10. Engin, Mersin0.8 


Galatasaray returns WNBA star Tamika Catchings - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray came up with very important signing for rest of the season. The Turkish outfit inked a deal with its former player Tamika Catchings (186-F-79, college: Tennessee). The WNBA star spent second half of the last season with Galata pacing them to trophy in Turkish National Cup. In TBBL, Cathcings also was great as she averaged 14.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.7 steals for 18 games.
Last summer, Tamika Catchings had impressive 18.2 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 2.9 apg and 2.3 spg for 37 WNBA games with her Indiana Fever. She also helped the USA NT to win the Gold at the World Championships in Czech Republic. For 9 games at this event, Catchings had 8.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg.
In the past, Tamika Catchings spent couple of seasons with Indiana Fever. In Europe, she was a member of Lotos Gdynia and Spartak Moscow Region. Her Galatasaray currently has 9-1 record in Turkey sharing the first place with Fenerbahce Ulker.

Diana Taurasi's B sample also reportedly positive for doping - by Eurobasket News
WNBA star Diana Taurasi's (182-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) backup doping sample came back positive and she faces a possible two-year ban, Turkish news reports said Monday.

The Turkish basketball federation did not immediately confirm the reports by the Dogan News agency and private NTV news channel. Neither news outlet cited a source. The Phoenix Mercury standout and former Connecticut star tested positive for the banned stimulant modafinil while playing in Turkey's professional league.

An official at Taurasi's Turkish club, Fenerbahce, also would not confirm the report and said the team had not been notified of the result.

' (We've) seen those reports, but there is no official report,' Taurasi's lawyer Howard Jacobs told The Associated Press. 'It's disconcerting that it would come out before they finished the process. The earliest we would know would be tomorrow.'

Taurasi was tested following a league game Nov. 13 and the positive result was confirmed last month.

Taurasi had been provisionally suspended by Fenerbahce pending the result of her 'B' sample test, which was analyzed at the doping lab at Hacettepe University in Ankara.

Modafinil is used to counter excessive sleepiness due to narcolepsy, shift-work sleep disorder or sleep apnea, according to drug manufacturers.

Taurasi led the WNBA in scoring for a league-record fourth straight year, averaging 22.6 points. The five-time All-Star and two-time WNBA champion signed a multiyear contract extension with Phoenix in August.

She played in Russia for four years for powerhouse Spartak before joining the Turkish League this season. Taurasi was leading the league in scoring with 24.6 points a game.

Taurasi is one of many American stars who play overseas in the winter because salaries are significantly higher than the WNBA's summer league.

If the positive 'B' sample finding is confirmed by Turkey's basketball federation, it could lead to a ban of up to two years for Taurasi. It could also put Taurasi's 2012 Olympics standing with the U.S. national basketball team in jeopardy.

The International Olympic Committee bars any athlete given a doping penalty of six months or more from competing in the next games. She has helped the team win gold medals at the past two Olympics and was the leading scorer at the world championships, which the Americans won in October.

'We have not received any word or confirmation on the 'B' test, we're still monitoring it,' USA Basketball spokesman Craig Miller said.

The WNBA is also watching the process.

'We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds and as additional facts become available but feel it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,' WNBA spokesman Ron Howard said in a statement.

Meanwhile, two of Taurasi's teammates at Fenerbahce resisted doping tests in Turkey because they do not trust the lab that tested her samples, Turkey's Haberturk newspaper said.

Penny Taylor of Australia and Hana Horakova of the Czech Republic provided samples only after the Turkish federation agreed to send them to Germany for testing at a lab in Cologne.

The two players were tested after Fenerbahce's Turkish league game against Besiktas on Sunday. A Fenerbahce official confirmed the report.

Modafinil has been involved in several major doping cases, including that of U.S. sprinter Kelli White, and is on the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of banned substances.

White won the 100- and 200-meter races at the 2003 world championships in Paris, but both her medals were stripped after she tested positive for the stimulant.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

*****************************************************
  USBA - Women  


WUSBA prepares for 2011 basketball season - by USBA Media
Atlanta, Ga. (January 4, 2011) ----The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) has announced the preparation for the 2011 season is under way. Over the next six months, the league has set the venue to properly conduct a successful 2011 basketball season.

WUSBA President and Chief Executive Officer Duane Allen Jenkins issued the following statement:

'Every professional sports league owes its very existence to the fans of their respected community. Everyone associated with the Women's United States Basketball Association has the fans and their community first and foremost on their agenda. We will accomplish all that is necessary to maintain the trust and the loyalty of all our fans. We are truly grateful to be accepted in these great cities and towns.'

'In the beginning, I stated that the WUSBA would assist female basketball players to continue their careers. We have created a system that will bring our league right underneath the WNBA. We plan to utilize former WNBA players as coaches and league staff. We will begin our inaugural season with 20 teams that are united in their dedication to bring top quality basketball to our team cities. The teams, coaches and players will share a common objective and a commitment to our fans' satisfaction; we will work together as community partners with our team cities.'

The following is a list of teams for the WUSBA 2011 basketball season:

The Piedmont Division consists of the Raleigh Road Runners, the Charlotte Blue Wave, the Columbia Breeze, the Augusta Raging River, and the Winston Salem Cardinals.

The Appalachian Division houses the Kentucky Plateau, the Chattanooga Royal, the Knoxville Reign, the Nashville Thunder and the West Virginia Capitals.

The Atlantic Division has the Norfolk Blaze, the Richmond Colonials, the Jacksonville Surf, the Savannah Seahawks and the Charleston Cadets

The Southern Division fields the Atlanta Platinum, the Macon Storm, the Birmingham Starz the Montgomery Spirit and the Tallahassee Cypress

'We are devoting a feverous pace to complete everything it takes to run a twenty team league in the pursuit of our original goals. Today, I can tell you that our determination remains as strong as ever before. When we made the decision to open the WUSBA, our goals are to secure the most qualified coaches and players available. This commitment will ensure the success of the WUSBA. This ongoing policy would benefit the city, the towns, the teams, the sponsors, and the fans we serve.'

'When I announced the continuation of the WUSBA for 2011, in late June 2010, I said each WUSBA team would play a full schedule and we would offer viable employment opportunities to the people in our team communities, along with offering secure jobs to our coaches and players. We now have everything in place to complete the upcoming season, venues are in the process of being secured; uniforms are ordered, Golden Corral meal cards secured, lodging reserved for the players and coaches and league sponsorships committed.' 'Regardless of what the pundants say we believe the WUSBA can offer the best in minor league basketball'.

'As I stand before you today, it is my pleasure to announce our march to the opening day of our 2011 basketball season; it is our goal to conduct proper preparation for the season.

Accordingly, I am pleased to announce the final formation of the for mentioned twenty teams that will compete in the 2011 Women's United States Basketball Association basketball season. We will conduct our player acquisition in a manner consistent with major professional women's basketball.'

'As I also said in June 2010, we will present a great competitive product that will be entertaining to our fans, our team cities and the profession of basketball as a whole. We are extremely excited about future of our league and our 20 teams. We now have the time to do it right and I stand here today to assure that everything will be ready for our 2011 basketball season.'

'We'll see you, your family and your friends courtside in June 2011.'

'The Women's United States Basketball Association was formed in late March 2010, but the WUSBA concept was originally founded in July 2007. Through the months and years, we have faced a variety of challenges -- some of which seemed insurmountable at the time. The WUSBA will persevere through the tough economic adversities our country has faced and the WUSBA will persevere through this one, as well -- to emerge with a framework for the future, one that everyone will be proud to be associated with -- where our players and coaches have an opportunity to achieve their goals.'



*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Galatasaray returns WNBA star Tamika Catchings - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray came up with very important signing for rest of the season. The Turkish outfit inked a deal with its former player Tamika Catchings (186-F-79, college: Tennessee). The WNBA star spent second half of the last season with Galata pacing them to trophy in Turkish National Cup. In TBBL, Cathcings also was great as she averaged 14.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.7 steals for 18 games.
Last summer, Tamika Catchings had impressive 18.2 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 2.9 apg and 2.3 spg for 37 WNBA games with her Indiana Fever. She also helped the USA NT to win the Gold at the World Championships in Czech Republic. For 9 games at this event, Catchings had 8.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg.
In the past, Tamika Catchings spent couple of seasons with Indiana Fever. In Europe, she was a member of Lotos Gdynia and Spartak Moscow Region. Her Galatasaray currently has 9-1 record in Turkey sharing the first place with Fenerbahce Ulker.

Diana Taurasi's B sample also reportedly positive for doping - by Eurobasket News
WNBA star Diana Taurasi's (182-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) backup doping sample came back positive and she faces a possible two-year ban, Turkish news reports said Monday.

The Turkish basketball federation did not immediately confirm the reports by the Dogan News agency and private NTV news channel. Neither news outlet cited a source. The Phoenix Mercury standout and former Connecticut star tested positive for the banned stimulant modafinil while playing in Turkey's professional league.

An official at Taurasi's Turkish club, Fenerbahce, also would not confirm the report and said the team had not been notified of the result.

' (We've) seen those reports, but there is no official report,' Taurasi's lawyer Howard Jacobs told The Associated Press. 'It's disconcerting that it would come out before they finished the process. The earliest we would know would be tomorrow.'

Taurasi was tested following a league game Nov. 13 and the positive result was confirmed last month.

Taurasi had been provisionally suspended by Fenerbahce pending the result of her 'B' sample test, which was analyzed at the doping lab at Hacettepe University in Ankara.

Modafinil is used to counter excessive sleepiness due to narcolepsy, shift-work sleep disorder or sleep apnea, according to drug manufacturers.

Taurasi led the WNBA in scoring for a league-record fourth straight year, averaging 22.6 points. The five-time All-Star and two-time WNBA champion signed a multiyear contract extension with Phoenix in August.

She played in Russia for four years for powerhouse Spartak before joining the Turkish League this season. Taurasi was leading the league in scoring with 24.6 points a game.

Taurasi is one of many American stars who play overseas in the winter because salaries are significantly higher than the WNBA's summer league.

If the positive 'B' sample finding is confirmed by Turkey's basketball federation, it could lead to a ban of up to two years for Taurasi. It could also put Taurasi's 2012 Olympics standing with the U.S. national basketball team in jeopardy.

The International Olympic Committee bars any athlete given a doping penalty of six months or more from competing in the next games. She has helped the team win gold medals at the past two Olympics and was the leading scorer at the world championships, which the Americans won in October.

'We have not received any word or confirmation on the 'B' test, we're still monitoring it,' USA Basketball spokesman Craig Miller said.

The WNBA is also watching the process.

'We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds and as additional facts become available but feel it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,' WNBA spokesman Ron Howard said in a statement.

Meanwhile, two of Taurasi's teammates at Fenerbahce resisted doping tests in Turkey because they do not trust the lab that tested her samples, Turkey's Haberturk newspaper said.

Penny Taylor of Australia and Hana Horakova of the Czech Republic provided samples only after the Turkish federation agreed to send them to Germany for testing at a lab in Cologne.

The two players were tested after Fenerbahce's Turkish league game against Besiktas on Sunday. A Fenerbahce official confirmed the report.

Modafinil has been involved in several major doping cases, including that of U.S. sprinter Kelli White, and is on the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of banned substances.

White won the 100- and 200-meter races at the 2003 world championships in Paris, but both her medals were stripped after she tested positive for the stimulant.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com