EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/8/2011 1:00:00 AM

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ABA

Aces defeat the SLAM - by Gianni Pascucci
The game was between the two top teams in the So Cal Division, the #7 Las Vegas Aces and #20 Los Angeles Slam squared off for what turned out to be an exciting and rememberable match so far this season. The LA Slam jump out to a 39-26 lead after the 1st qt, led by veterans Tony Farmer (6'10''-F/C-70, college: Nebraska) and Tracy Murray (6'8''-F-71, college: UCLA). The lead continue to grow after the second intermission and at half time #20 Slam led 71-55.
The 3rd qt was still the same as the two teams traded baskets and after the end of the 3rd quarter the score was 101-85. The 4th quarter was a different story: led by Lou Kelly (6'5''-G/F-79, college: UNLV), Patrick Savoy (6'9''-F/C-72, college: UNLV) and Michael Johnson (6'0''-G-76, college: Oklahoma), the Aces, outscored the Slam 37-19, coming back well and finally claiming a 122-120 victory.
The Slam was led by Tony Farmer who scored 23 pts and Tracy Murray, who added 18. The Aces were led in scoring by Michael Johnson with 30 points, Patrick Savoy added 24 pts and Lou Kelly chipped in win 20 pts, 10 of them in the 4th quarter.

Humphrey joins the Pioneers - by Gianni Pascucci
The St. Louis Pioneers announced the signing of former AND1Mixtape player John 'Helicopter' Humphrey (6'2''-G/F-80, college: Middle Tenn.St.).. Humphrey has arrived in St.Louis and has began to practice with the team. He is scheduled to suit up and play in the home opener on Saturday, Jan.8 night at Meremac College. Hump will be a huge addition to the squad as he brings great experience, athleticism and leadership to the organization. Negotiations have been in the works for the last week or so and we are happy to finally have him on board. The Pioneers are currently 2-1 on the season. Additional information can be found on their website at www.stlpioneers.com

Mavericks win on the road - by Gianni Pascucci
The Southeast Texas Mavericks (13-1) won their 5th game on the road this season with a 122-98 hard fought victory against North Dallas Vandals, improving their road record this season to 5-1.
SETX came out hot early with perimeter bombs from Currye Todd (6'4''-G-85, college: Lamar), who started in place of injured Josh Pace (6'6''-G-83, college: Syracuse). Todd hit two 3s in the early going to give the Mavs the early lead. North Dallas battled back with Jonathan Walker (6'3''-G-86, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: McMurry) taking center stage. Walker leveled the score at 15 with a basket at the seven minute mark. From there the Mavericks gained control led by rookie point guard Hollis Giles (6'3''-G, college: Georgetown, KY). The Mavs led 31-19 after one period of play.
In the second quarter Walker continued his onslaught from both the inside and outside on the Mavericks. Devon Pearson (6'6''-F, college: SMU) also got into the mix with key baskets and rebounds. But the Mavericks bench came up big and the SETX took at 57-40 half-time lead into the locker-room.
The Vandals came out of the locker-room at half-time blazing and cut a 21 point Mavericks lead to just 6 with two minutes to go in the 3rd period. Walker and Pearson led the way for North Dallas as they trailed only 79-75 after three periods of play.
The 4th quarter belonged totally to the Mavericks as Desmond Cambridge (6'0''-G-79, college: Alabama A&M) and Myles Thrash (6'0''-G-77, college: Stillman) hit key baskets! Jon Rogers (6'9''-F/C-84, college: Valdosta St.) and Lamar Sanders (6'6''-F-84, college: Lamar) controlled the paint as the Mavs opened the game up and regained it twenty point lead. SETX finished strong and went on to gain the road win 122-98.
SETX was led in scoring by Cambridge with 31 points. Thrash added 24 points and Odell Bradley (6'4''-F/G-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: IUPUI) chipped in 22 points. Walker scored a game high 41 points for North Dallas. Pearson followed up with 25 points and a game high 12 rebounds.
The SETX Mavericks will host the Texas Rimrockers on Saturday night, January 8th at Nutty Jerrys Entertainment Center in Winnie, TX. Tip-off will be at 7:30 PM.

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ASEAN LEAGUE

ASEAN League round 13 best performance: Kyle Jeffers - by Eurobasket News
American center Kyle Jeffers (206-C-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Singapore Slingers, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 23 points and 16 rebounds, while his team edged out KL Dragons (#3, 7-6) 93-90. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Singapore Slingers maintains the 4th position in ASEAN League . Singapore Slingers is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 6-7 record. Jeffers turned to be Singapore Slingers' top player in his first season with the team. Former Oregon State University star has very solid stats this year. Jeffers is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 13.5rpg) and averages impressive 2.1spg.

The second best player in last round's games was 30-year old American Justin Leith (201-F-81) of KL Dragons. Leith had a very good evening with a double-double of 31 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as KL Dragons was edged by slightly lower-ranked Singapore S. (#4, 6-7) 93-90. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. KL Dragons still maintains its place in the top 3 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 7-6 record is not bad at all. Leith is one of the most experienced players at KL Dragons and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Singapore Slingers' star - Filipino guard Leonidez Avenido (186-G). Avenido showcased his all-around game by recording 28 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the last round. He was another key player of Singapore Slingers, helping his team with a 93-90 win against #3 ranked KL Dragons. The chances of Singapore Slingers ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 7 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Avenido could help Singapore Slingers to bring them higher in the standings. Avenido has a great season in ASEAN League. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.9ppg (4th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Steve Thomas (203-F-81) of Philip.Patriots - 14 points, 22 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Jason Dixon (205-C-73) of Thailand Slammers - 19 points and 15 rebounds
6. Christopher Garnett (211-C-80) of Barracudas - 22 points and 12 rebounds
7. Francis Adriano (188-F-75) of Satria Muda - 12 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Nakiea Miller (205-C-79) of KL Dragons - 17 points and 21 rebounds
9. Antoine Broxsie (209-F-79) of Satria Muda - 14 points and 12 rebounds
10. Chris Commons (204-F-84) of Barracudas - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists

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

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AUSTRIA

A Bundesliga Round 18: Furstenfeld Panthers are upset by Arkadia Lions - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in A Bundesliga is slowly approaching the end. But there may be still some important changes in the final standings in the last 4 rounds. There were many interesting games last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most important game in the last round took place in Traiskirchen between second ranked Furstenfeld Panthers (11-7) and fifth ranked Arkadia Lions (11-7) on Thursday night. Furstenfeld Panthers were defeated by Arkadia Lions on the road 83-70. The game was mostly controlled by Arkadia Lions. Furstenfeld Panthers managed to win fourth quarter 21-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Arkadia Lions dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Furstenfeld Panthers' 28. Arkadia Lions outrebounded Furstenfeld Panthers 42-27 including a 32-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was Argentinian-Italian forward Fabricio Vay (206-86, agency: Interperformances) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists. Serbian forward Djordje Drenovac (197-92, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard De'Angelo Alexander (198-84, college: Charlotte) who recorded 21 points and 6 rebounds. Arkadia Lions has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Furstenfeld Panthers. Arkadia Lions is looking forward to face Raiffeisen Wels (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Furstenfeld Panthers will play against UBSC Graz (#7) and are hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Kapfenberg Bulls (11-7) against sixth ranked Oberwart Gunners (11-7) on Thursday night. Visiting Kapfenberg Bulls were crushed by sixth ranked Oberwart Gunners (11-7) in Oberwart 79-57. It was a good game for the former international center Bernd Volcic (205-76, college: New Orleans, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Kelvin Parker contributed with 20 points for the winners. American forward Daniel Horace (200-83, college: Miami (OH)) replied with 12 points and 7 rebounds for Kapfenberg Bulls. Oberwart Gunners moved-up to second place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Kapfenberg Bulls. Kapfenberg Bulls lost third consecutive game. Oberwart Gunners will play against bottom-ranked Worthersee Piraten (#12) in Klagenfurt in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kapfenberg Bulls will play at home against Xion Dukes (#6) in Klosterneuburg and hope to get back on the winning track.
Leader Gmunden Swans delivered the fourteenth victory on Thursday night. This time they crushed 11th ranked St.Polten (5-13) 97-72. Deteri Mayes scored 20 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Gmunden Swans' coach Matthias Fischer felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was Tomislav Gaspar with 20 points. Defending champion maintains first position with 14-4 record. St.Polten lost third consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with 13 games lost. Gmunden Swans will meet at home BC Vienna (#10) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. St.Polten will play against Gussing Knights and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Ninth-ranked Gussing Knights (7-11) made lots of trouble for sixth ranked Xion Dukes (11-7) in Klosterneuburg. Xion Dukes managed to secure only two-point victory 58-56. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Gussing Knights. Ramiz Suljanovic notched a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds to lead the effort. Xion Dukes has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with 4 other teams. Gussing Knights at the other side keep the ninth position with 11 games lost. Xion Dukes' next round opponent will be Kapfenberg Bulls (#4) on the road. Gussing Knights will play against St.Polten (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Tenth-ranked BC Vienna (6-12) made lots of trouble for eighth ranked Raiffeisen Wels (10-8) on Thursday. Raiffeisen Wels managed to secure only two-point victory 73-71. However their fans expected easier game. The best player for the winners was Rasheed Brokenborough who scored 19 points. Raiffeisen Wels have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to seventh place, which they share with UBSC Graz. Loser BC Vienna keeps the tenth position with 12 games lost. Raiffeisen Wels will face higher ranked Arkadia Lions (#3) in Traiskirchen in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. BC Vienna will play on the road against the league's leader Gmunden Swans (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.

In the last game of round 18 bottom-ranked Worthersee was crushed by UBSC Graz in a road game 94-75.
The best stats of 18th round was 22 points and 11 rebounds by Louis Graham of UBSC Graz.

Arkadia - Furstenfeld 83-70

The most important game in the last round took place in Traiskirchen between second ranked Furstenfeld Panthers (11-7) and fifth ranked Arkadia Lions (11-7) on Thursday night. Furstenfeld Panthers were defeated by Arkadia Lions on the road 83-70. The game was mostly controlled by Arkadia Lions. Furstenfeld Panthers managed to win fourth quarter 21-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Arkadia Lions dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Furstenfeld Panthers' 28. Arkadia Lions outrebounded Furstenfeld Panthers 42-27 including a 32-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was Argentinian-Italian forward Fabricio Vay (206-86, agency: Interperformances) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists. Serbian forward Djordje Drenovac (197-92, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard De'Angelo Alexander (198-84, college: Charlotte) who recorded 21 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Anthony Shavies (191-83, college: Missouri St., agency: Court Side) added 15 points and 6 assists respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Arkadia Lions has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Furstenfeld Panthers. Arkadia Lions is looking forward to face Raiffeisen Wels (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Furstenfeld Panthers will play against UBSC Graz (#7) and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Arkadia: F.Vay 17+16reb+5ast, M.Bralovic 14+9reb+1ast, K.Houston 14+7reb+1ast, K.Payton 12+3ast, D.Drenovac 11+7reb+6ast, B.Danek 6+2reb+7ast
Furstenfeld: D.Alexander 21+6reb+3ast, A.Shavies 15+4reb+6ast, D.Hasenburger 14+3reb+1ast, L.O'Neal 13+3reb+1ast, D.Carr 4+8reb+1ast, C.Krammer 3+2reb

UBSC Graz - Worthersee 94-75

There was no surprise when 12th ranked Worthersee Piraten (1-17) was crushed on the road by seventh ranked UBSC Graz (10-8) 94-75 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by UBSC Graz. Worthersee Piraten managed to win third quarter 23-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. UBSC Graz looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was American forward Louis Graham (205-84, agency: ZAG Advocates) who had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds. Slovenian guard Dragan Miletic (195-82) chipped in a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Thomas Kennedy (201-87, college: Detroit Mercy) who recorded 25 points and 8 rebounds and guard Samuel Bachlechner (180-88) added 10 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists respectively. Four UBSC Graz and five Worthersee Piraten players scored in double figures. Worthersee Piraten's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. UBSC Graz maintains seventh position with 10-8 record, which they share with Wels. Worthersee Piraten lost eighth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 17 lost games. UBSC Graz will face higher ranked Furstenfeld Panthers (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Worthersee Piraten will play against the league's second-placed Oberwart Gunners (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
UBSC Graz: L.Graham 22+11reb+1ast, D.Miletic 20+3reb+10ast, S.Grum 17+5reb+3ast, C.Knor 15+2reb+2ast, R.Lanegger 8+4reb+1ast, A.Heuberger 7+3reb+1ast
Worthersee: T.Kennedy 25+8reb+2ast, G.Zajic 14+3reb+3ast, B.Weber 10+2reb, S.Bachlechner 10+10reb+5ast, E.Rhinehart 10+5reb, M.Breithuber 4+1reb+1ast

St.Polten - Gmunden 72-97

Leader Gmunden Swans delivered the fourteenth victory on Thursday night. This time they crushed 11th ranked St.Polten (5-13) 97-72. The game was mostly controlled by Gmunden Swans. St.Polten managed to win second period 20-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Gmunden Swans dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to St.Polten's 30 and made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. Gmunden Swans forced 23 St.Polten turnovers and outrebounded them 27-16 including 20 on the defensive glass. The former international guard Deteri Mayes (189-74, college: Murray St., agency: Court Side) scored 20 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American swingman Ian Boylan (197-83, college: Cal.St. Northridge, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) chipped in 17 points, 5 assists and 6 steals during the contest. Five Gmunden Swans players scored in double figures. Gmunden Swans' coach Matthias Fischer felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was forward Tomislav Gaspar (198-83) with 20 points and international guard Thomas Schreiner (195-87) scored 9 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Defending champion maintains first position with 14-4 record. St.Polten lost third consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with 13 games lost. Gmunden Swans will meet at home BC Vienna (#10) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. St.Polten will play against Gussing Knights and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Gmunden: D.Mayes 20+5reb+3ast, I.Boylan 17+2reb+5ast, D.Oppland 14+5reb, A.Slack 14+5reb+1ast, P.Hutter 11+3reb+3ast, M.Mayer 9+5reb+1ast
St.Polten: T.Gaspar 20+2reb+3ast, N.Kapic 15, D.Jandl 11+3reb+3ast, T.Schreiner 9+5reb+8ast, A.Worenz 7+2reb+2ast, M.Gunka 6

Klosterneub. - Gussing 58-56

Ninth-ranked Gussing Knights (7-11) made lots of trouble for sixth ranked Xion Dukes (11-7) in Klosterneuburg. Xion Dukes managed to secure only two-point victory 58-56. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Gussing Knights. Gussing Knights were ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 14-9 charge of Xion Dukes, which allowed them to win the game. Bosnian power forward Ramiz Suljanovic (206-79) notched a double-double by scoring 26 points and 10 rebounds to lead the effort and guard Anton Maresch (188-91) supported him with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Even a double-double of 10 points and 13 rebounds by American forward Marcus Heard (201-84, college: De Paul) did not help to save the game for Gussing Knights. Naturalized Serbian power forward Aleksandar Djuric (210-82) added 11 points and 5 rebounds. Xion Dukes has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with 4 other teams. Gussing Knights at the other side keep the ninth position with 11 games lost. Xion Dukes' next round opponent will be Kapfenberg Bulls (#4) on the road. Gussing Knights will play against St.Polten (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Klosterneub.: R.Suljanovic 26+10reb, A.Maresch 16+5reb+1ast, C.Bobb 6+5reb, J.Chappell 4+6reb+2ast, D.Hamidovic 3+2reb, H.Obermann 2+3ast
Gussing: A.Nunner 14+1reb+1ast, A.Djuric 11+5reb+1ast, M.Heard 10+13reb+1ast, Y.Schaefer-tsahe 6+2reb, M.Jandrasits 5+1reb+2ast, C.Astl 4+1reb+1ast

Oberwart - Kapfenberg 79-57

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Kapfenberg Bulls (11-7) against sixth ranked Oberwart Gunners (11-7) on Thursday night. Visiting Kapfenberg Bulls were crushed by sixth ranked Oberwart Gunners (11-7) in Oberwart 79-57. The game was mostly controlled by Oberwart Gunners. Kapfenberg Bulls managed to win second period 16-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Oberwart Gunners made 22-of-26 charity shots (84.6 percent) during the game. It was a good game for the former international center Bernd Volcic (205-76, college: New Orleans, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. American guard Kelvin Parker (183-82, college: NW Missouri St.) contributed with 20 points for the winners. Four Oberwart Gunners players scored in double figures. American forward Daniel Horace (200-83, college: Miami (OH)) replied with 12 points and 7 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Larry Gordon (196-87, college: Cal Poly Pomona, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) added 8 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Kapfenberg Bulls. Oberwart Gunners moved-up to second place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Kapfenberg Bulls. Kapfenberg Bulls lost third consecutive game. Oberwart Gunners will play against bottom-ranked Worthersee Piraten (#12) in Klagenfurt in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Kapfenberg Bulls will play at home against Xion Dukes (#6) in Klosterneuburg and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Oberwart: K.Parker 20+1reb+2ast, B.Volcic 16+10reb+3ast, J.Johnson 10+10reb, H.Ochsenhofer 10+1reb+2ast, H.Artner 9+3reb, J.Dean Shawn 8+3reb+4ast
Kapfenberg: D.Horace 12+7reb, D.Nelson 11+4reb+2ast, S.Knabl 8+2reb+1ast, L.Gordon 8+7reb+2ast, A.Woschank 7+2reb+1ast, L.Jordan 6+5reb+2ast

Wels - BC Vienna 73-71

Tenth-ranked BC Vienna (6-12) made lots of trouble for eighth ranked Raiffeisen Wels (10-8) on Thursday. Raiffeisen Wels managed to secure only two-point victory 73-71. However their fans expected easier game. BC Vienna was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. The best player for the winners was American guard Rasheed Brokenborough (191-76, college: Temple, agency: Impact Basketball) who scored 19 points. The other American import forward Bruce Fields (197-80, college: Gardner-Webb, agency: Rasmussen Services) chipped in 16 points. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international guard Stjepan Stazic (199-78, agency: World Sport Agency) who recorded a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds and Canadian center Russell Hicks (213-85, college: Florida Intern.) added 14 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Five Raiffeisen Wels and four BC Vienna players scored in double figures. Raiffeisen Wels have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to seventh place, which they share with UBSC Graz. Loser BC Vienna keeps the tenth position with 12 games lost. Raiffeisen Wels will face higher ranked Arkadia Lions (#3) in Traiskirchen in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. BC Vienna will play on the road against the league's leader Gmunden Swans (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Wels: R.Brokenborough 19+3reb+2ast, B.Fields 16+4reb+3ast, T.Klette 10+6reb, R.Holcomb Faye 10+5reb+5ast, J.Smith 10+8reb, J.Francois 6+6reb
BC Vienna: R.Hicks 14+10reb, S.Pekovic 14+6reb+1ast, M.Carr 12+1reb+6ast, S.Stazic 12+11reb+1ast, M.Graf 7+2reb+1ast, S.Rhynes 5+3reb

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Baltic League round 13 best performance: Aurimas Kieza - by Eurobasket News
Forward Aurimas Kieza (202-F-82, agency: Players Group) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Juventus-LKSK Utenos, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 29-year old player had a double-double of 25 points and 12 rebounds, while his team edged out Neptunas (#2, 6-3) 86-84. It allowed Juventus to consolidate first place in the Baltic League Challenge. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Juventus has a very solid 7-2 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. Kieza turned to be Juventus' top player in his first season with the team. Former Hofstra University star has very solid stats this year. Kieza is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 9.9rpg) and averages impressive 58.6% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 32-year old Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79) of Norrkoping Dolphins. Kjellbom had a very good evening with a double-double of 19 points and 13 rebounds. Bad luck as Norrkoping lost that game 86-92 to the higher-ranked Rudupis (#1, 10-4). Norrkoping managed to keep the same 8th spot in Elite. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-7 record. Kjellbom is one of the most experienced players at Norrkoping and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.9ppg (#4). He also registered 7.0 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Bambale Osby (203-F-86) of TTU/Kalev Tallinn (#11). Osby scored 23 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Osby's great performance TTU/Kalev lost 70-83 to the higher-ranked Nevezis (#3, 9-3). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. TTU/Kalev can only dream about fighting for top spots in Elite. They have rather bad season and 3-10 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Osby he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Osby has individually a great season in Baltic League. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.6ppg (3rd best) and rebounds with 11.5rpg (#1 in league). Osby attended one of camps at Eurobasket Summer League on his way to pro basketball.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79) of Norrkoping - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Vytenis Lipkevicius (198-F-89) of Rudupis - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) of Nevezis - 19 points and 11 rebounds
7. Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83) of Neptunas - 18 points and 13 rebounds
8. Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82) of Ventspils - 13 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Adas Juskevicius (194-G/F-89) of Rudupis - 14 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Rolandas Alijevas (192-G-85) of Nevezis - 11 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists

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

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BOSNIA

KSBIH reveals names of most NT candidates for Lithuania - by Nedzad Kladusak

In an interview for the bosnian tabloid 'Dnevni Avaz' Harun Mahmutovic, sports director of KSBIH revealed some names of the preliminary roster. Namely coach Hadzic wants to naturalize a classy center. It s a kind of a surprise since BIH has got a wide range of EL-proven centers and power forwards and it has been more than evident that the team lacks a true floor general.
Nihad Djedovic who is about to become the best U-20 player in the Euroleague is a pure slasher with good handles, a very quick first step and decent assist skills who has got not developed a solid perimeter shooting and still gets his man out of sight while playing defense. Nemanja Gordic proved several times that he is a true patriot but he seems not to become a PG. It is obvious that BIH needs urgently a first class PG and it is interesting that FYROM that acquired Washington, McCalebb became one of the major surprises of the past EC.
There are further question marks in the preliminary roster like for instance Adin Vrabac, a very young kid competing in the second bosnian division. Despite he is very talented and the future belongs to him his nomination becomes ridiculous if you leave out players like Damir Krupalija and Elvir Ovcina who have won championships and played All-Star Games in serious European leagues.
Milan Milosevic and Elmedin Kikanovic (suspended) are both free-agents and under normal circumstances they have no chance to join the expedition to Lithuania.
Other players like Marko Scekic and Goran Suton have been invited several times but they either turned down the offer or even didn t consider the offer. Nedzad Sinanovic who had serious chances to get precious minutes from the bench obviously decided to apply for a Spanish passport. Ermin Jazvin who recently joined Iraklis and Drasko Albijanic who is steadily developing will support Varda under the paints. Adnan Hodzic, who is a leading scorer in the NCAA has been invited and brings raw power and a nice range of low post moves. He has got no previous experiences in Europe but he has some chances to get his shot.
KSBIH is has got no funds but managed somehow to get the organization of the U20EC. Not only the infamous bosnian trinity of a serb, croatian and bosniak official but also functional redundancies like for example Konakovic-Duskaj ask for insane amounts to finance the organisation. Despite they have marketing experts in their rows there is still no full TV coverage of the domestic league, no Allstar game, no livescores. There have been several offers of Bosnians living out of BIH to organize matches against teams of their host nations. The bosnian sports portal sportsport.ba wanted to distribute a statistical software to all teams for free to provide a better transparency and coverage of the bosnian basketball championship. All these offers have been ignored by officials displaying a lack of professionalism, passion and a surplus of criminal conduct. A basketball association can be run with a minimum of paid employees but not without a minimum of devotion to that sport and a nation.

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BRAZIL

Paraiso Basketball Team sign two new players - by Paulo Freire
Paraiso Basketball Team, just sign two new players for the 2011 season. Looking forward to play on the Brazil Cup, the team is bringing the young, Irving Andr Proni Pereira he was born in 07/12/1989, with 22 years old he is a powerforward, with 2m02 tall. He had played for a small club call Jacara Basketball.

Looking for more presence on the pain the team also sign with a Brazilian center who just got back from U.S. College experience, and played last season at Rio Claro basketball on the Paulista State, Gabe Garcia (211-F/C-86, agency: GOTathletes, college: Ashland).

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CHINA

Shanxi replace Ernest Brown with Shawn Taggart - by Eurobasket News
Shanxi Zhongyu made a change in the roster. The team released Brown Ernest (213-C-79, agency: Team Quest Inc., college: Indian Hills CC). The 31-year-old centre joined Shanxi back in December. He appeared in five games tallying 4.6 points, 3.8 rebounds per game. Shanxi found the replacement as they penned the deal with Shawn Taggart

(207-F-85, college: Memphis). The 25-year-old forward spent the preseason with Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk in Ukraine. Shawn Taggart signed with CB Murcia in LEB Gold in October. The forward tallied 6.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. It is not the first contract in China for Taggart. The forward played for Henan Jiyuan Iron and Steel in the Chinese NBL last season. He produced 29.5 points, 11.8 boards, 1.0 assist per game then.

Xinjiang Blows Out Dongguan to Lead CBA - by Arthur Volbert
Xinjiang outscored Dongguan 30-11 in the second quarter en route to a 103-68 blowout. Xinjiang remains undefeated and is in first place in the CBA at 11-0 while Dongguan slips to 10-1. Singleton James

(203-F-81, college: Murray St.) led Xinjiang with 28 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 blocks. Quincy Douby had 22 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals in this game dominated by Xinjiang's imports. Xu Guozhong had 17 points and 4 rebounds. Zhang Qingpeng scored 11. Former Dongguan center Song Kangming had his first impact in any game this year with 8 points and 2 rebounds in 11 minutes. Mengke Bateer was scoreless but had 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Josh Akognon had 23 points for Dongguan which hit 22 of 59 shots and was outrebounded 44-32. Jackson Vroman had 14 points in 21 minutes. Gu Quan scored 8 and He Zhongmian had 7. Sun Zhe had 7 points and 7 rebounds. Native stars Zhang Kai and Qiu Biao did not play. Taiwanese star Chen Hsin-An, who has played little this year, showed why with 1 point and 2 rebounds in 41 minutes, missing all 4 of his shots.

Third place Guangdong, with an 8-3 record, beat Shanghai 112-81. Dong Hanlin had 19 points and 7 rebounds. Du Feng scored 13. Wang Zheng had 12 points, 17 rebounds and 8 blocks in 23 minutes, a very impressive performance though 7-3 Zhang Zhaoxu missed his second straight game for Shanghai. Zhou Peng scored 12 and Liu Xiaoyu had 9 points, 3 assists and 5 steals. Fred Jones had 8 points and 5 rebounds. Su Wei also scored 8. Shanghai was also missing National Team guard Liu Wei. Michael Harris had 24 points and 13 rebounds. Devin Green had 2 points and 5 rebounds in 18 minutes. Peng Fei had 22 points and 5 rebounds. Wang Ligang scored 12.

Beijing reached 8-4 by defeating Foshan 108-94. The game was not as close as it looks as Foshan outscored Beijing 33-9 in the fourth quarter when the game was already decided. Beijing outscored Foshan 72-37 in the first half. Lee Hsueh-Lin had 24 points and 7 assists for Beijing. Zaid Abbas had 21 points and 14 rebounds. Randolph Morris had 19 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. Chen Lei scored 17 and Ji Zhe scored 10.

Stephon Marbury had 51 points for Foshan but this is a meaningless statistic in this type of game. Jin Jiming, with 13 points, was the only other Foshan player in double figures. Olumide Oyedeji had 9 points and 14 rebounds and, like Marbury, does not seem to be the player that he used to be. Young 214 cm Zheng Zhun had 4 points and 2 rebounds, hitting 2 of 9 shots.

Jiangsu reached 8-4 with a 106-94 win over Fujian. Antoine Wright had 33 points and 9 rebounds. Tang Zhengdong had 24 points and 8 rebounds. Jerome Moiso had 15 points and 9 rebounds. Meng Da scored 16. Hu Xuefeng had 9 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists. Andre Emmett had 24 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals for Fujian. Gong Songlin scored 16 and Li Hang had 12. Dwayne Jones had 11 points and 8 rebounds. Gou Lei and Zhou Qixin each scored 11.

The Zhejiang Lions defeated Liaoning 99-95, outscoring Liaoning 27-20 in the fourth quarter. Peter John Ramos had 35 points and 14 rebounds. Tre Kelley had 15 points and 4 assists. Lin Chih-Chieh had 17 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Deng Li and Zhang Wei each had 9 points and 7 rebounds. Yang Ming scored 22 points for Liaoning. Li Xiaoxu had 17 points and 16 rebounds. Donta Smith had 15 points and 5 rebounds. Liu Shunan scored 12. Chris Richard had 6 points and 6 rebounds in 24 minutes. 7-1 Han Dejun had 9 points and 5 rebounds in 24 minutes.

Qingdao beat Tianjin 99-85. Dee Brown had 39 points, 5 assists and 5 steals. Charles Gaines had 28 points and 13 rebounds. Li Gen scored 18. Herve Lamizana had 31 points and 7 rebounds for Tianjin. Lee Benson had 17 points and 12 rebounds. Li Gangfeng and Xu Guijun each scored 10.

Ding Jinhui had 24 points and 12 rebounds as Zhejiang defeated Jilin 89-80. Young point guard Wang Dayong had his third straight over-20 point game with 21 points and 7 rebounds since he replaced discarded import Mike James in the lineup. New import Marcus Williams had 21 points and 11 rebounds. Josh Boone had 12 points and 9 rebounds. Jameel Watkins had 15 points and 8 rebounds for Jilin. Lu Wei had 15 points and 5 rebounds. Yu Shulong had 14 points, 4 rebounds and 5 steals. David Young scored 12 as did Li Tao. Zhong Cheng had 8 points, 16 rebounds and 4 assists.

Shandong defeated Shanxi Zhongyu 91-78. Rodney White had 30 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Sun Jie scored 14. Li Lin had 12. Wu Ke had 8 points and 6 rebounds. Myron Allen had 7 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Leon Rogers had 21 points and 10 rebounds for Shanxi Zhongyu. Duan Jiangpeng scored 15. Wei Mingliang had 14 points and 6 rebounds. Shawn Taggart, a new import, had 13 points and 10 rebounds. Hou Bing scored 8.

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DENMARK

Ligaen Round 16: No surprise as #1 Bakken defeats Horsholm - by Eurobasket News
Ligaen top team - Bakken (16-0) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat fifth ranked Horsholm (7-7) 70-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Horsholm. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Bakken shot 24 for 33 from the free-throw line, while Horsholm only scored six points from the stripe. 29 personal fouls committed by Horsholm helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a quality performance of American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-84, college: Texas Tech) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists and the former international center Chris Christoffersen (218-79, college: Oregon) who added 16 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side forward Alexander Bak (193-91) responded with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Undefeated Bakken have an impressive 16-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 16-0 record. Horsholm at the other side keeps the fifth place with seven games lost. Bakken are looking forward to face league's second-placed Svendborg at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Horsholm will play against SISU in Copenhagen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Aabyhoj was quite interesting. Second ranked Svendborg (14-1) played at the court of 6th ranked Aabyhoj (7-10). Svendborg defeated Aabyhoj 75-63. The winners were led by the former international forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) who scored that evening 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and Christian Cavanaugh supported him with 14 points and 5 rebounds (perfect from the field making all six shots). Even a double-double of 21 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks by American forward Edward Morris (203-84, college: Pittsburg St.) did not help to save the game for Aabyhoj. Svendborg have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 14-1 record having just three points less than leader Bakken. Aabyhoj lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with ten games lost. They share the position with SISU. Svendborg will play against league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Aabyhoj will play on the road against Aalborg (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Third ranked Naestved (12-5) crushed at home 10th ranked Aalborg (1-15) by 25 points 95-70, which is the biggest margin this round on Wednesday night. Marius Kasiulevicius fired 27 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Naestved's coach Geoff Kotila felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Barkley Falkner produced 20 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. Naestved have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 12-5 record having three points less than leader Bakken. Loser Aalborg stay at the bottom place with 15 games lost. Naestved will meet Vaerlose (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Aalborg will play against Aabyhoj.

In the last game of round 16 SISU lost to Horsens IC on the opponent's court 66-70.

Horsens IC - SISU 70-66

Rather expected game when 6th ranked SISU (7-10) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked Horsens IC (9-8) 70-66 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 22-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The former international power forward Hans Schur (203-83, college: Lynn) fired 19 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) for the winners. American guard Rickey Claitt (188-87, college: Oregon St.) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists. Four Horsens IC players scored in double figures. American forward Donald Rutherford (198, college: Catawba) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 10 rebounds and his fellow American import swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) added 21 points respectively for lost side. Horsens IC maintains fourth position with 9-8 record. SISU lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with ten games lost. They share the position with Aabyhoj. Horsens IC will meet Amager BK (#9) in the next round where they are favorite. SISU will play against Horsholm and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Horsens IC: H.Schur 19+7reb+2ast, R.Claitt 15+2reb+6ast, C.Lindberg 12+1reb+1ast, A.Madsen 10+8reb, M.Sahlertz 7+4reb+1ast, N.Stankovic 4+8reb
SISU: M.Dennis 21+4reb+2ast, D.Rutherford 21+10reb+1ast, M.Nielsen 9+5reb+2ast, M.Brown 8+7reb+1ast, K.Nielsen 6+2reb+1ast, D.Harder 1+2reb+3ast

Aabyhoj - Svendborg 63-75

The game in Aabyhoj was quite interesting. Second ranked Svendborg (14-1) played at the court of 6th ranked Aabyhoj (7-10). Svendborg defeated Aabyhoj 75-63. The game without a history. Svendborg led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a great shooting night for Svendborg especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. The winners were led by the former international forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) who scored that evening 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and American power forward Christian Cavanaugh (207-86, college: Oregon Tech) supported him with 14 points and 5 rebounds (perfect from the field making all six shots). Four Svendborg players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 21 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks by American forward Edward Morris (203-84, college: Pittsburg St.) did not help to save the game for Aabyhoj. International guard Rasmus Dalboge (191-89) added 8 points and 4 assists for lost side. Svendborg have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 14-1 record having just three points less than leader Bakken. Aabyhoj lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with ten games lost. They share the position with SISU. Svendborg will play against league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Aabyhoj will play on the road against Aalborg (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: N.Iversen 18+6reb+4ast, C.Cavanaugh 14+5reb+1ast, A.Darboe 10+5reb+4ast, M.Williams 10+6reb+1ast, N.Degn-Andersen 9, M.Plannthin 7+2reb+1ast
Aabyhoj: E.Morris 21+13reb+4ast, A.Martin 10+2reb+3ast, R.Dalboge 8+3reb+4ast, M.Frandsen 7+2reb, R.Laier 7+1reb, D.Jukic 6+4reb+2ast

Naestved - Aalborg 95-70

Third ranked Naestved (12-5) crushed at home 10th ranked Aalborg (1-15) by 25 points 95-70, which is the biggest margin this round on Wednesday night. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 17-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 95-70. Naestved outrebounded Aalborg 49-28 including a 22-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Aalborg's players. Lithuanian swingman Marius Kasiulevicius (198-82, college: Trinity Valley JC) fired 27 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay (OH)) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. Naestved's coach Geoff Kotila felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American power forward Barkley Falkner (203-86, college: Sam Houston St.) produced 20 points and 7 rebounds and swingman Henrik Falsvig (192-89) added 19 points respectively for lost side. Naestved have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 12-5 record having three points less than leader Bakken. Loser Aalborg stay at the bottom place with 15 games lost. Naestved will meet Vaerlose (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Aalborg will play against Aabyhoj.
Top scorers:
Naestved: M.Kasiulevicius 27+6reb+3ast, L.Hoirup 24+3reb+2ast, L.Roberts 15+12reb+3ast, P.Johansen 7+13reb+2ast, R.Norgaard 6+5reb, P.Christensen 5+2ast
Aalborg: B.Falkner 20+7reb, H.Falsvig 19+3reb+3ast, S.Sorensen 12+3reb, B.Sorensen 6+2reb+1ast, R.Lauridsen 6+5reb+2ast, C.Thomsen 6+3reb+1ast

Horsholm - Bakken 64-70

Ligaen top team - Bakken (16-0) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat fifth ranked Horsholm (7-7) 70-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Horsholm. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Bakken shot 24 for 33 from the free-throw line, while Horsholm only scored six points from the stripe. 29 personal fouls committed by Horsholm helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a quality performance of American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-84, college: Texas Tech) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists and the former international center Chris Christoffersen (218-79, college: Oregon) who added 16 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side forward Alexander Bak (193-91) responded with 16 points and 6 rebounds and the former international power forward Jens Hakanowitz (204-80) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds. Four Horsholm players scored in double figures. Bakken have an impressive 16-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 16-0 record. Horsholm at the other side keeps the fifth place with seven games lost. Bakken are looking forward to face league's second-placed Svendborg at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Horsholm will play against SISU in Copenhagen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bakken: C.Nielsen 19+1reb, C.Christoffersen 16+7reb, C.Burgess 12+10reb+6ast, J.Thorpe 9+4reb+4ast, M.Thuesen 6+1reb, J.Jensen 4+2reb+2ast
Horsholm: A.Bak 16+6reb+1ast, A.Montrimavicius 13+5reb+1ast, J.Hakanowitz 11+10reb+1ast, F.Nielsen 11+5reb+3ast, J.Gilling 4+4reb+7ast, D.Balaton 4+1reb+1ast

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D-LEAGUE

Dexter Pittman is back to SkyForce - by Matthew Man
The Miami HEAT announced today that Dexter Pittman (6'10''-C-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas) has been re-assigned to the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA Development League. The Skyforce are the HEATs NBA D-League affiliate.
Pittman was previously assigned to the Skyforce on November 26 and was re-called on December 20 after appearing in eight games (all starts) and averaging 16.6 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.63 blocks and 30.6 minutes while shooting 60.2 percent from the field. He recorded four double-doubles after posting 18 points and a team-high 10 rebounds at Iowa on December 1, 18 points and a game-high 15 rebounds vs. Iowa on December 3, 15 points and a team-high 10 rebounds vs. Austin on December 7 and then a game-high 27 points and a game-high 10 rebounds vs. Utah on December 17.
Pittman, the 32nd overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, blocked a Sioux Falls season-high six shots vs. Utah on December 17, his third multi-block game. Additionally, during his stint he led the team in points three times, rebounds six times and in blocks on three occasions.
The Miami HEAT is proud to have ASSIST-CARD as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2010-11 season.

Thursday: Claws get the victory, and that's bottom line - by Eurobasket News
Maine RC - Dakota W. 99-95 OT
On a scale of 1 to 10, Austin Ainge gave it a 2. 'It wasn't pretty,' said the Maine Red Claws' coach. Didn't matter. The Red Claws won Thursday night, overcoming a 14-point third-quarter deficit to beat the Dakota Wizards 99-95 in overtime at the Portland Expo. On a cold-shooting night -- caused by the shot-blocking of the Wizards (14 blocks, eight by Chris Johnson) and the absence of 3-point shooter Jamar Smith (calf injury) -- the Red Claws relied on defense in the second half and overtime to win their sixth consecutive home game. 'It was a fight,' said center Tiny Gallon (6'9''-F-91, college: Oklahoma), who played sparingly in the first half after getting poked in the right eye, but finished with 13 points and a game-high 16 rebounds. The Red Claws (9-9) snapped a two-game losing skid, while Dakota (4-14) endured its fifth consecutive loss. 'In the past, when we shot 5 for 21, 23 percent from the 3-point line, we lose because we're a perimeter-oriented small-ball team right now,' Ainge said. 'So I was happy our defense picked up in the second half. 'We gutted one out. Sometimes the shots aren't falling, sometimes we don't play our best. We were able to get a win.' The Wizards didn't get a basket in overtime, scoring three points at the foul line. The Red Claws, meanwhile, got two huge hoops. Leading 94-93, Matt Janning (starting for Smith at the point) drove the middle and flicked a shot over the outstretched hand of Johnson, the ball dropping onto the front rim, then in. After Darren Cooper

(6'3''-G-83, college: Portland) hit two foul shots to bring the Wizards within one with 45 seconds left, Mario West knocked down a huge shot. DeShawn Sims, who scored a game-high 26 points, missed from the left baseline but the Red Claws fought for the rebound, which Sims eventually grabbed. He ended at the top of the key and drove the middle, pitching out to West on the right wing. West's jumper was a swish with 14.1 seconds left, giving the Red Claws a 98-95 lead. After a timeout, Gallon then stole the inbounds pass at midcourt, leading to a foul shot by Sims with 10 seconds left. 'It was ugly, ugly, but we found a way to get it done,' said West, who had nine points on Mario West bobblehead night (and also had a monstrous spinning one-handed dunk). 'The team stuck together and that's really what it's all about.' Janning, who had 17 points and committed only one turnover after the first quarter, agreed. 'It wasn't the best we could play,' he said. 'I think we've proved that before. It's the same thing with this team, we go through stretches when we play real good, then we go through stretches where we don't make shots offensively and play lackadaisical on defense. We've got to find a way to play a full game.' Maine had the early advantage but the Wizards went on a 16-4 run, sparked by Renaldo Major

(6'7''-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Fresno St.) (19 points) and Anthony Goods (6'3''-G-87, college: Stanford) (18), to start the second quarter and led 54-42 at the half, blocking 11 shots. But Maine went on a 12-0 run early in the third. It was 69-69 heading into the fourth. *Courtesy of www.pressherald.com

Toronto Raptors sent back Solomon Alabi to D-League - by Matthew Man
The Toronto Raptors announced Thursday they have re-assigned rookie centre Solomon Alabi (7'1''-C-88, college: Florida St.) to the Erie Bay Hawks of the NBA Development League. Alabi will continue to be included on the Raptors roster and will be placed on the teams inactive list.
Alabi was with the BayHawks from November 15 December 9. He appeared in seven games with Erie, averaging 8.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.0 blocks and 22.7 minutes. He had 12 points and 11 rebounds in the Bayhawks 102-82 victory over the Utah Flash.   Alabi has appeared in five games with the Raptors, totaling five rebounds in 15 minutes.   A native of Nigeria, Alabi, was named All-ACC Defensive Team in his two full seasons at FSU. He started all 67 games, leading the Seminoles to the NCAA Tournament twice and the ACC Tournament Championship Game as a redshirt freshman. He averaged a school record 2.1 blocked shots per game for his career. He also shot .534 per cent from the field in his two-plus seasons with the Seminoles.   The club acquired the draft rights to Alabi from the Dallas Mavericks on June 24. He was the 50th overall selection in the 2010 NBA Draft. Alabi is the fifth Raptor to be assigned to the D-League. Ed Davis was also assigned to Erie in December. Nathan Jawai was designated on two occasions in the 2008-09 season to the Idaho Stampede. P.J. Tucker was assigned twice to the Colorado 14ers during the 2006-07 season and Pape Sow was assigned to the Arkansas Rimrockers in the 2005-06 campaign. Erie, which is led by head coach Jay Larranaga, has been appointed as Torontos D-League affiliate for the 2010-11 season.

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ESTONIA

Curtis Allen arrives in Voru - by Eurobasket News
Curtis Allen (193-G-85, college: ORU) arrives in Voru to help the team to do their best in Estonian League. The American Guard started his career in 2004-2005 for Kansas St. (NCAA) and after 21 games averaged 1.5ppg, 17reb, 4ast. In 2005-2006 for Kansas St. (NCAA) improved to 2.4ppg, 1.8rpg. In 2006-2008 moved to ORU (NCAA) and in the last season had 3.7ppg, 1.8rpg. In 2009-2010 appeared for Music City Stars (ABA), while the last season spent in Long Beach Lights Out (WCBL). He is MCC Regular Season Champion -07, MCC Tournament Winner -07, Summit League Regular Season Champion -08 and Summit League Tournament Winner -08.
In his first game of the Regular Season Round 17 Voru KK lost to the favorites TU/Rock 62:134. Curtis Allen collected 8 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds. He showed 3/11 from the field and 0/2 from the arc. TU/Rock looked much better in all the aspects. They won all the quarters and nailed 41 points in the last frame. Veideman Rain brought 40 points for the winning side.

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EUROCUP

ALBA Berlin officially adds Heiko Schaffartzik - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Heiko Schaffartzik

(182-G-84) officially became a member of ALBA Berlin. He arrives from Turk Telekom, where he started this season.
Heiko Schaffartzik joined Turk Telekom last summer from the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. He appeared 10 times in TBL averaging 3.8 points, 1.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists. In EuroChallenge, Schaffartzik added 5.7 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 1.8 apg. Last season with Braunschweig he collected 10.5 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 3.4 apg in 40 Bundesliga games. Before Turk Telekom and Braunschweig, Schaffartzik was a member of LTi Giessen 46ers, EnBW Ludwigsburg and Central Hoops Berlin. He also has experience from Oldenburg, Nuernberg and Lichterfelde Berlin. Schaffartzik was a member of the German National Team at the latest FIBA World Championship in Turkey. He played 5 games for his country collecting 9.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 2.8 apg. In 2009, he had 12.7 ppg, 2 rpg and 2.8 apg at the EuroBasket in Poland. At the same year Schaffartzik was named Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Domestic Player of the Year.
Heiko Schaffartzik signed a deal until the end of the next season.

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EUROLEAGUE

A1: Week 10 - Panathinaikos - Panionios 109-55! - by Chris Mammides
In an amazing game where many records have been broken, Zeljko Obradovic 's team thrashed (double score minus one point) the team of Coach Giorgos Bartzokas with 54 points difference! In a game where seven Green players had double digits (Tepic 10, Batiste 12, Fotsis 10, Sato 10, Vougioukas 12, Nick Calathes

(198-G-89, college: Florida) 13 and Kaimakoglou 11) and in a game where 3D - Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) broke the Hellenic record of the assists (Angelos Koronios (185-G-69) record which was valid for more than seven years). Dimitris is now leading the specific category (of all times) with his six assists in the game against Panionios and with a total of 1.267 assists in his career, is the new leading figure in the category and only Spanoulis (who is far behind) can actually be a thread for him. The 54 points of difference is teh second best record for the team of Panathinaikos Athens after the 60 points difference over Makedonikos some years ago.

The other records that Panathinaikos Athens broke tonight are the number of points as the 109 is the highest number this year (in the opener of this seazons league PAO scored 108), while the difference of the 54 points is the biggest against Panionios and the seventh bigger in the history of Panathinaikos Athens. At the same time the 51 rebounds is this seazon's record in the division while the 7 block shots and the 18 assists for the Greens are the top numbers this seazon. Panionios achieved also one record as the 10 steals that Coach Giorgos Bartzokas players succeeded over Panathinaikos Athens players is among the top numbers of Panionios this seazon.

Cholet and Claude Marquis part ways - by Eurobasket News
Claude Marquis

FINLAND

Finnish U18 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Starting five

Puotila

Kauppinen

Caven

Herbert

Dolenc

Ville Puotila

180-G-93

Honka

Mikko Jamsa

181-G-93

TomPo II

Niko Mattila

185-G-94

Pyrinto

Ilari Seppala

188-G-93

Kouvot

Sebastian Booker

188-G-93

Namika Lahti Finland

Samuli Oja

190-F-93

Namika Lahti Finland

Juuso Kauppinen

188-F-94

ToPo

Tommi Huolila

197-F-93

Salon Vilpas Finland

Joonas Caven

203-F-93

Pyrinto

Mikael Herbert

201-F-93

Kouvot

Mika Nuolivirta

205-C-94

Daniel Dolenc

204-C-93

Honka

Pieti Poikola

Head Coach

Pyrinto

Ray Ailus

Assistant

KTP

Korisliiga Round 25: Joensuun Kataja beats Torpan Pojat by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
Seventh-ranked Torpan Pojat (12-13) used its home court advantage to challenge third ranked Joensuun Kataja (17-8) in Helsinki on Friday. The visitors from Joensuu managed to secure only two-point victory 92-90. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Torpan Pojat. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Torpan Pojat won third quarter 22-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 7 rebounds. Power forward Darren Fells (201-86, agency: Court Side) contributed with 21 points for the winners. Guard Frank Richards (188-82, college: Kansas St.) answered with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for Torpan Pojat. Joensuun Kataja maintains third place with 17-8 record having four points less than leader KTP. Torpan Pojat at the other side keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Joensuun Kataja is looking forward to face league's second-placed Tampereen Pyrinto at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Torpan Pojat will play against Salon Vilpas (#10) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Korisliiga top team - KTP-Basket (21-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat twelfth ranked Porvoon Tarmo (4-21) 87-78. American players dominated also this game. Forward Jerald Fields (201-82, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Lanshire Group) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and Jeb Ivey chipped in 24 points. At the losing side swingman Jonathan Heard (198-86) responded with 16 points. KTP-Basket has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 21-4 record. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo stay dead last with 21 lost games. KTP-Basket will play against Namika Lahti (#8) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Porvoon Tarmo will play against Espoo Honka (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Uusikaupunki supposed to be quite interesting. 4th placed Espoo Honka (14-10) played at the court of fifth ranked UU-Korihait (15-10). UU-Korihait did not have too big problems ending evening with a very confident victory 84-66 on Friday. James Reaves nailed a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds for the winning side. John Williamson came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds for Espoo Honka in the defeat. UU-Korihait moved-up to fourth place. Loser Espoo Honka dropped to the fifth position with ten games lost. UU-Korihait will meet LrNMKY (#11) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Espoo Honka will play against Porvoon_Tarmo (#12) and hope to secure a win.
The game between sixth ranked Kouvot (14-11) and 11th ranked LrNMKY (6-19) in Kouvola ended with biggest points difference. Kouvot outscored guests from Lappeenranta 92-67. Americans were the main players on the court. B.A. Walker fired 26 points for the winners. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Kouvot maintains sixth place with 14-11 record. LrNMKY lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 19 games lost. Kouvot's next round opponent will be Kauhajoen Karhu (#9) in Kauhajoki. LrNMKY will play at home against UU-Korihait in Uusikaupunki.

In the last two games of round 25 Karhu was beaten by Pyrinto on the road 95-81. Namika Lahti lost to Salon Vilpas on its own court 82-95.
The most impressive performance of 25th round was 25 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists by Jeremiah Wood of Karhu.

ToPo - Kataja 90-92

Seventh-ranked Torpan Pojat (12-13) used its home court advantage to challenge third ranked Joensuun Kataja (17-8) in Helsinki on Friday. The visitors from Joensuu managed to secure only two-point victory 92-90. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Torpan Pojat. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Torpan Pojat won third quarter 22-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a great performance of swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 7 rebounds. Power forward Darren Fells (201-86, agency: Court Side) contributed with 21 points for the winners. Guard Frank Richards (188-82, college: Kansas St.) answered with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and forward LaVell Blanchard (201-81, college: Michigan, agency: Beo Basket) added 20 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Torpan Pojat. Five Joensuun Kataja and four Torpan Pojat players scored in double figures. Joensuun Kataja maintains third place with 17-8 record having four points less than leader KTP. Torpan Pojat at the other side keeps the seventh position with 13 games lost. Joensuun Kataja is looking forward to face league's second-placed Tampereen Pyrinto at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Torpan Pojat will play against Salon Vilpas (#10) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
ToPo: L.Blanchard 20+8reb, F.Richards 19+7reb+4ast, H.Mottola 17+4reb+2ast, T.Heinonen 16+6reb, E.Lehtinen 8+1reb, M.Pounds 5+2reb
Kataja: D.Fells 21+3reb+3ast, J.Newson 20+7reb+1ast, P.Virtanen 19+5reb+1ast, J.Sten 15+1reb+4ast, A.Kanervo 10+4reb, M.Ojala 4+3reb

Pyrinto - Karhu 95-81

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Tampereen Pyrinto (19-6) beat at home 9th ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (9-16) 95-81. The game was mostly controlled by Tampereen Pyrinto. Kauhajoen Karhu managed to win second period 29-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Tampereen Pyrinto dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Kauhajoen Karhu's 44 and made 26-of-34 charity shots (76.5 percent) during the game, while Kauhajoen Karhu only scored ten points from the stripe. 29 personal fouls committed by Kauhajoen Karhu helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) fired a double-double by scoring 17 points, 12 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals for the winners. His fellow American import guard Kenneth Lowe (192-80, college: Purdue, agency: Warren Sports International) chipped in 28 points and 8 rebounds (made all of his sixteen free throws !!!). Four Tampereen Pyrinto players scored in double figures. American forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) produced a double-double by scoring 25 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) and guard Aleksi Huuskonen (188-88) added 16 points respectively for lost side. Tampereen Pyrinto have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Defending champion maintains second place with 19-6 record having just two points less than leader KTP. Kauhajoen Karhu lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 16 games lost. Tampereen Pyrinto's next round opponent will be Joensuun_Kataja (#3) on the road, which may be the game of the day. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola.
Top scorers:
Karhu: J.Wood 25+13reb+4ast, A.Huuskonen 16+3reb+1ast, E.Skamo 11+4reb+2ast, W.Baxley 9+4reb+2ast, S.Johnson 8+3reb+3ast, S.Niskanen 5+1ast
Pyrinto: K.Lowe 28+8reb+1ast, A.Williams 20+7reb+4ast, D.Williams 17+12reb+8ast, A.Nikkila 15+2reb+1ast, O.Ahvenniemi 8+8reb+1ast, J.Niemi 7+1reb

Kouvot - LrNMKY 92-67

The game between sixth ranked Kouvot (14-11) and 11th ranked LrNMKY (6-19) in Kouvola ended with biggest points difference. Kouvot outscored guests from Lappeenranta 92-67. The game was mostly controlled by Kouvot. LrNMKY managed to win fourth quarter 15-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kouvot dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to LrNMKY's 26. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard B.A. Walker (188-84, college: Va Commonwealth, agency: Pro One Sports) fired 26 points for the winners. Guard Josh Gonner (188-82, college: S.Carolina) chipped in 21 points. Forward HL Coleman (202-74, college: Wyoming) produced 16 points and 7 rebounds and guard James Lewis (191-86, college: Fresno Pacific) added 14 points respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Kouvot maintains sixth place with 14-11 record. LrNMKY lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with 19 games lost. Kouvot's next round opponent will be Kauhajoen Karhu (#9) in Kauhajoki. LrNMKY will play at home against UU-Korihait in Uusikaupunki.
Top scorers:
LrNMKY: H.Coleman 16+7reb+1ast, J.Lewis 14+2reb+1ast, A.Tapio 10+4reb, M.Moore 10+5reb+2ast, V.Vanjoki 7+1reb, A.Kankaanpaa 4+2reb
Kouvot: B.Walker 26+4reb+2ast, J.Gonner 21+4reb+3ast, D.Vinson 12+6reb+1ast, V.Kaunisto 11+10reb+4ast, A.Nikkarinen 10+1ast, L.Toivonen 6+5reb+1ast

Namika Lahti - Salon Vilpas 82-95

There was a minor upset when 8th ranked Namika Lahti (10-14) lost at home to tenth ranked Salon Vilpas (8-17) 95-82. It looked good early as Namika Lahti took an 5-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Salon Vilpas had a 27-21 second period charge getting the lead and Namika Lahti was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 82-95. It was a great shooting night for Salon Vilpas especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. American forward Nicchaeus Doaks (202-87, college: Chattanooga, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) fired a double-double by scoring 29 points and 14 rebounds (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field) for the winners. The former international forward Jukka Kataja (197-82) chipped in 12 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. American forward Anthony Vereen (201-86, college: Texas Arlington) produced 21 points and guard Roope Suonio (176-82) added 15 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Salon Vilpas has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain tenth place with 8-17 record. Namika Lahti lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 14 games lost. Salon Vilpas' next round opponent will be higher ranked Torpan Pojat (#7) in Helsinki and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Namika Lahti: A.Vereen 21+4reb+1ast, R.Ayers 19+3reb, R.Suonio 15+3reb+4ast, T.Hendley 12+8reb, C.Latimer 10+9reb+2ast, V.Heinonen 3
Salon Vilpas: N.Doaks 29+14reb+1ast, S.Kaaresvirta 19+2reb+2ast, R.Ahonen 16+1reb+1ast, N.Okorie 14+6reb+4ast, J.Kataja 12+5reb+7ast, R.Thompson 5+6reb

Tarmo - KTP 78-87

Korisliiga top team - KTP-Basket (21-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat twelfth ranked Porvoon Tarmo (4-21) 87-78. Porvoon Tarmo was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 27-16 charge of KTP-Basket, which allowed them to win the game. American players dominated also this game. Forward Jerald Fields (201-82, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Lanshire Group) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and guard Jeb Ivey (190-80, college: Portland St.) chipped in 24 points. At the losing side swingman Jonathan Heard (198-86) responded with 16 points and forward Jerrah Young (202-85, college: Toledo) scored 13 points and 7 rebounds. Four KTP-Basket and five Porvoon Tarmo players scored in double figures. KTP-Basket has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 21-4 record. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo stay dead last with 21 lost games. KTP-Basket will play against Namika Lahti (#8) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Porvoon Tarmo will play against Espoo Honka (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Tarmo: J.Kyllonen 16+3reb+1ast, J.Heard 16+3reb+3ast, E.Maki-Tulokas 13+2reb+1ast, J.Young 13+7reb+1ast, C.Toney 11+2reb, L.Trice Little 3+4reb
KTP: J.Ivey 24+2reb+1ast, J.Fields 17+11reb+2ast, M.Holme 12+3reb, S.Barrett 11+5reb+1ast, J.Lehtoranta 9+3reb+1ast, C.Jones 8+4reb+1ast

Korihait - Honka 84-66

The game in Uusikaupunki supposed to be quite interesting. 4th placed Espoo Honka (14-10) played at the court of fifth ranked UU-Korihait (15-10). UU-Korihait did not have too big problems ending evening with a very confident victory 84-66 on Friday. The game without a history. UU-Korihait led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. UU-Korihait outrebounded Espoo Honka 43-29 including 17 on the offensive glass. nailed a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds for the winning side and American swingman Nigel Moore (195-81, college: Alabama A&M) accounted for 16 points and 11 rebounds. Five UU-Korihait players scored in double figures. American center John Williamson (198-86, college: Cincinnati) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds and the other American import forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) added 17 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Espoo Honka in the defeat. UU-Korihait moved-up to fourth place. Loser Espoo Honka dropped to the fifth position with ten games lost. UU-Korihait will meet LrNMKY (#11) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Espoo Honka will play against Porvoon_Tarmo (#12) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Honka: C.Belser 17+5reb+1ast, J.Williamson 14+11reb+1ast, T.Iisalo 10+1reb+1ast, A.Vanjoki 7+2reb, J.Matinen 6+4reb+1ast, V.Makalainen 6+3reb+1ast
Korihait: J.Reaves 17+15reb+2ast, N.Moore 16+11reb+3ast, B.Sarcevic 15+2reb+3ast, P.Heinonen 13+6reb+1ast, L.Wright 12+2reb+1ast, M.Jalonen 11+2reb+3ast

From California to Finland - by Corey Belser
Sure! Well, please allow me to informally introduce myself. My name is Corey Belser (200-F-82, college: San Diego) (200-F-82, college: San Diego) (200-F-82, college: San Diego), I am a graduate of the University of San Diego located in sunny and beautiful Southern California. I am a product of Spanaway, Washington's Bethel High School coached by Pat Mullen. Spanaway aka 253 is located about an hour South of Seattle. Including the Belser family there is a large population of military families located in Spanaway. Much respect to my parents and all the troops around the world especially those stationed at Fort Lewis Army and McChord Air Force Base! I owe a lot of my success to Soldiers Field house pick-up games!

I am currently living and playing in Helsinki, Finland playing for the Honka Espoo Playboys, unfortunately no connection Mr. Hugh Hefner, just the mobile giant Nokia! For those not familiar with Helsinki, I would summarize it as a truest Scandinavian Western European country, most of the people speak perfect fluent english. Not that speaking english categorizes it as Western but it's a very thriving modern city! It gets extremely cold and my car sitting in about 3ft of snow right now!

As a team we have a lot talent John Williamson

(198-C-86, college: Cincinnati) and Jamar Wilson

(185-G-84, college: Albany) along with 3 Finnish National team players Jukka Matinen

(203-F-78), Tuomas Iisalo (195-G-82, agency: Court Side) and Ville Makalainen

(194-F-85, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management). We are on the road this week. It's funny though, we are headed today to play the current worst team in Finland then to Moscow to play one of the best teams and best history in European history CSKA Moscow in the VTB United League. I asked Steve Burtt

(185-G-84, college: Iona) currently playing for Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk in Ukraine, what's the scouting report for CSKA since he just played them a week ago. He gave me some great adive 'Don't get blown out' realistically though, he's right......right? There budget trumps us by a Million plus, but I am never afraid to take on a Goliath. Stay tuned Corey Belser singing out............

Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk

Ramey's double-double lands him 1st Division Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old swingman Zach Ramey (191-F/G-81) put on an amazing game in the last round for Ura Basket and receives a Eurobasket.com 1st Division Player of the Week award for round 12.
He had a double-double of 32 points and 11 rebounds, while his team edged out LoKoKo (#6, 6-5) 76-74. Ura Basket maintains the 8th position in Finnish 1st Division. Ura Basket is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 6-7 record. In the team's last game Ramey had a remarkable 66.7% from 2-point range and got four three-pointers out of 9 attempts. He turned to be Ura Basket's top player in his first season with the team. Benedictine College graduate has very impressive stats this year. Ramey is in league's top in assists (4th best: 4.7apg). Worth to mention Ramey played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

Second best performed player last round was Arsene Towa (191-F-81) of Kerava ET. He is Cameroonian forward in his second season at Kerava ET. In the last game Towa recorded impressive double-double of 19 points and 22 rebounds. Bad luck as Kerava ET lost that game 71-94 to the higher-ranked Honka (#3, 8-4). Despite lost game Kerava ET moved up to 10th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-9 record. Towa is well-known at Kerava ET and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.4ppg (#8). He also registered 14.5 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Carlton Brown (198-F-79) of Namika II (#12). Brown scored 25 points and grabbed seventeen rebounds (!!!). Despite Brown's great performance Namika II lost 64-75 to the higher-ranked TomPo II (#9, 5-8). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Namika II can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have awful season losing so far all 12 games. Too bad for Brown he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Brown has individually a great season in Finland. After only 6 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 16.0rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tracy Robinson (201-F-86) of Jyvaskyla - 26 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
5. De Marcus Hall (201-F-85) of SayRi - 28 points and 11 rebounds
6. Derick Nelson (196-F-86) of Lapua - 29 points and 15 rebounds
7. Jamal Douglas (201-F-85) of Huima - 21 points and 17 rebounds
8. Jarno Nissinen (194-F-77) of Jyvaskyla - 27 points and 6 rebounds
9. Pyry Rainamaa (194-G-90) of TomPo II - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Baboucarr Bojang (204-F-80) of BC Nokia - 21 points and 16 rebounds

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

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FRANCE

Cholet and Claude Marquis part ways - by Eurobasket News
Claude Marquis

(204-F/C-80, agency: Lanshire Group) is no longer a member of Cholet. The reigning French champion and Marquis parted ways yesterday. He appeared 10 times in Euroleague this season averaging 6.5 points and 3.6 rebounds. In ProA, Marquis added 4.3 ppg and 3.3 rpg for 12 games.
Claude Marquis is a product of Cholet, where he started as teenager. He played for them until 2006, when he moved to Strasbourg IG. Next year, Marquis moved back to Cholet where he started until November of 2009. Than, he was sent on loan to Italian Pepsi JuveCaserta. Marquis played 26 games in SerieA averaging 5.5 points and 3.5 rebounds. He was a member of the French National Team in 2004, 2005 and 2008. It remains to be seen will Cholet bring in a replacement for Marquis.

Kareem Reid and Rob Lewin out of JA Vichy - by Eurobasket News
JA Vichy parted ways with Kareem Reid (178-G-75, college: Arkansas) and Rob Lewin (201-F-80, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Troy).
Kareem Reid appeared 12 times for the club in ProA registering 6.5 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 6.3 apg. He also played for Vichy last season, when he had much better stats. For 30 games at that time Reid had 11.5 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 7.8 assists. He finished the season as the ProA top assistant and he won the same award on season 2008/09. Eurobasket named Reid All-French ProA Honorable Mention -10. Before JA Vichy, Reid was a member of Bourg.
Rob Lewin collected 11.5 ppg and 9.8 rpg for 6 games this season. He moved to Artland Dragons for a tryout until the end of January. Lewin played for Strasbourg, Boulazac and Bruesa in the past.

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

GERMANY

Steffen Harvey left UBC Hannover - by Moritz Korff
The UBC Hannover Tigers (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have parted company with Steffen Harvey (188-G, college: Warner Pacific), the club announced on its website. The 24-year-old German-American guard played ten games for Hannover this season, while averaging 4.3 points, 1.9 assists and 1.9 rebounds per contest. With Harvey's exit the UBC Tigers are slowly but surely running out of domestic players and have only five Germans left on their current roster.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners PRO B Team Add Ryan Staudacher - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The new year didnt start well with the Deutsche Bank Skyliners PRO B team as they have injury woes concerning American Christopher Rojik

(200-F-74, college: Holy Cross) who is out between 3-5 weeks and German Filmore Beck

(189-G-91) will not return again this season after sustaining a foot injury. The team responded by bringing in American Ryan Staudacher (193-G-87, college: Montana) to fill the hole on the wing left by Filmore Beck

(189-G-91). Staudacher is a 23 year old 193cm guard from Kirkland, Washington. He is starting his professional basketball career in Germany after playing at Montana (NCAA) from 2006-2010. In his four years, he played a total of 119 NCAA games and in his senior year, he played 32 games: 8.6ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 45.6%, 3PT: 45.5%, FT: 80.0%. He fits perfectly to our club with his qualities.The whole team will help integrate Ryan quickly into the team so he can use his excellent qualities', stressed coach Klaus-Gunther Mewes . He is supposed to play the wing, but can also help out at the point guard position.

Source: DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS Frankfurt e.V.

Ronald Ross (MBC Wolves) Pregame Thoughts To 8 Time BEKO BBL Champion Alba Berlin Game January 8th - 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 before the game against Alba Berlin January 8th.

A tough 75-60 loss against Alba Berlin in the O2 World arena. MBC started with a 4-0 run and stayed well with Alba Berlin, but they broke away in the second quarter. What chnaged in the game that allowed the opponent to break away?

We just didn't play good defense and we couldn't keep our offense rolling like we needed too.

Despite the loss was there anything that the team did well besides winning the rebounding?

We weren't really pleased with our performance. We kind of got away from the things that elevate our performance such as running the floor and moving the ball.

How strange is it having to play Alba Berlin 72 hours later again?

It's not too strange. I guess you can say it's like being in the playoffs or something.

Is this an advantage to be able to play them so soon again? What will MBC have to do better at home to come away with a victory?

Honestly, we just need to play good defense, not give up easy buckets, and execute our offense. We'll have a chance anywhere if can make those 3 things our focal points throughout the duration of the game.

There are rumours that Heiko Schaffartzik is on his way to Alba Berlin. Does Alba Berlin have a point guard problem?

I'm not sure about Alba's point guard situation, but obviously Heiko is there, so you can be the judge of that.

Is this another lost season for Dirk Nowitzki in winning his first NBA title since Caron Butler is lost for the season?

Haha, that's funny. I'm all for people having success and far from a hater, but did honestly think the Mavs had a chance to win it all this year. I didn't even know it was a topic. 't or die, I'm a Lakers fan my man.

What is your prediction for the game Deutsche Bank Sklyiners (home) against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg?

Man, I'm not sure...I don't know much about Oldenburg and I know the Skyliners are dangerous. Where are they playing?

They are playing in Frankfurt Ron. Thanks for the chat.

Bryan Bailey (Artland Dragons) Pregame Thoughts To EnBW Ludwigsburg Game January 8th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Bryan Bailey (185-G-80, college: Bucknell) is a 30 year old 185cm combo guard that will be starting his 9th professional basketball season playing with The Artland Dragons. He is a true team leader both on and off the court. He possesses a diverse game, with an ability to stroke the long-range jumper, penetrate to the rim or distribute the ball. He is solid on the defensive end of the floor as well. His fierce competitive drive rubs off on his teammates. He started his professional basketball career at Bucknell and player there from 1998-2002 and in his senior year played 17games averaging 18.1ppg,5.3rpg,2.4apg. He made All-Patriot League 1st Team in 2001 and 2002. In 2002-2003, he started his professional basketball season in Germany with DJK S. Oliver Wurzburg (Germany-1Bundesliga, starting five): 26 games, 15.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4spg. In 2003-2004, he played in Holland for Landstede Zwolle (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 35 games: 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, 0.2bpg. He then played with The Artland Dragons from 2004-2007 reaching the league and cup final in 2007. His best statistical season was 2005-2006 playing 33 games and averaging 11.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 25.3%. In 2007-2008, he played with Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 10.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 84.3%. In 2008-2009, he played in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE): Eurocup: 6 games: 7.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg; Polish League: 32 games: 8.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77.0%. Last season, he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg playing Euroleague: 4 games: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg; German League: 6 games: 9.3ppg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.7%. He sat down and spoke with Eurobasket before the game with EnBW Ludwigsburg January 8th.

The Artland Dragons have had a 10 day rest between games. How important has this off time been for the team?

I think the rest was good for us. It especially helps the guys who have been banged up with injuries and gives them time to recover.

The Artland Dragons are playing very good basketball having won four of the last five games. What has changed in the play of the game in the last weeks?

I think we are playing a lot more freely and with more confidence. We are staying aggressive even when things are not going our way. Earlier in the season, when things weren't going our way, we became passive on offense and defense.

What is your memory of the 70-55 win in Ludwigsburg in the first game of the season?

It was a tough game for us, because we played without Tyrese and I was just coming back from an injury. I believe it was a close game at halftime, and we pulled off the win in the last quarter.

What has been your impression of the EnBW Ludwigsburg since that first game?

They have improved as a team and are playing better basketball. In our first game Zavackas didn't play and he is a very important player for them.

The Artland Dragons did a pretty good job limiting Jerry Green and Alex Harris to 7/27 shooting. EnBW Ludwigsburg have many very good individual players. Ludwigsburg has gotten better. What will be key in keeping them under 60 points again?

The key will just to stay focused on defense for 40 mins. We will try to make their players take difficult and always contested shots.

How have The Artland Dragons been compensating the loss of Ebekwe on offense and defense?

It's been tough for us, but different players have stepped up to compensate for him. He was a high energy guy who did many things. But, we have to move forward and continue to play good basketball.

Does the season ending injury to Caron Butler mean another lost season for Dirk Nowitski and his first NBA title?

I think it would have been tough for Dallas to win the NBA title with Butler. Without him, I don't think they have a chance to win it at all.

What was the last DVD that you saw?

The Hurt Locker

Thanks Bryan for the chat.

Kevin Hamilton (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) Pregame Thoughts To BBC Bayreuth Game January 8th - 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 before the game against BBC Bayreuth January 8th.

The New Yorker Phnatoms Braunschweig are playing very solid basketball at the moment. Despite the good results what is the team still focusing on on improving on?

We could be a lot better defensively, and we could be a much better passing team as well. We are taking a lot of tough shots right now but luckily we are making them.

What is your memory of the 68-61 win in the first game against BBC Bayreuth?

I remember there being a lot of energy in the gym being that it was the first game. I also remember Osvaldo getting real hot against us.

What can we expect from this game in Bayreuth? Both teams have improved, but how dangerous is BBC Bayreuth? You saw them play and they very well could be the strongest 17th placed BEKO BBL team ever.

They are a real tough team, and I heard they have a great home atmosphere. I think they are very dangerous and we are going to have to be ready to play this weekend.

Jared Reiner wont be playing. Does that mean that Braunschweig will most likely go inside a good majority?

We always try to go inside.

Now with Reienr not being able to play, what things will Braunschweig have to be most alert about?

We will have to watch out for their shooters, and keep them out of transition.

What is the biggest challenge about defending Danny Gibson?

He is a good player in a good situation for him. The team depends on him and he does a good job of creating and shooting the ball.

How much does the season ending injury to Caron Butler hurt the Dallas Mavericks? Does that ruin another title win chance for Dirk Nowitzki?

I wasn't sure if they were going to be able to make a run for the title anyway.

It will be spring like weather on the weekend. What have you missed the most in the last month due to the cold weather?

Being able to take my daughter to the park.

Thanks Kev for the chat.

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

GREECE

A1 Round 10: Olympiakos defeat VAP Kolossos in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with derby games and favorites losing the games.

A1 round 10 most interesting game took place in Rodou between Olympiakos and VAP Kolossos. Top-ranked Olympiakos (10-0) got a very close victory on the road over 4th ranked VAP Kolossos (6-4). Olympiakos managed to escape with a 3-point win 71-68 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of VAP Kolossos. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 71-68. International guard Vassilis Spanoulis (193-82, agency: Beo Basket) scored 30 points and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Serbian power forward Zoran Erceg (210-85) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side swingman Pat Kalathis (208-85, college: St.Joseph's) responded with 23 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Undefeated Olympiakos have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-0 record, which they share with Panathinaikos. VAP Kolossos at the other side dropped to the third place with four games lost. They share the position with Aris and Kavala. Olympiakos is looking forward to face Kavala (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. VAP Kolossos will play against Panellinios in Athens and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked Kavala (6-4) against ninth ranked Ikaros (5-5) on Wednesday night. Host Kavala was edged by ninth ranked Ikaros (5-5) in a tough game in Kavala 66-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Kavala. The former international guard Giannis Kalambokis (195-78, agency: FCM) notched 13 points and 4 assists to lead the effort and Deon Thompson supported him with 10 points and 8 rebounds. Even 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists by Belizean guard Milton Palacio (190-78, college: Colorado St.) did not help to save the game for Kavala. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Ikaros moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Kavala at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. They share it with Aris and VAP Kolossos. Ikaros will play against league's second-placed Panathinaikos in Athens in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Kavala will play on the road against the league's leader Olympiakos in Athens and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Panellinios managed to get a second victory, breaking the six-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time they edged fifth-ranked Peristeri GS in Athens 60-57. Joseph Krabbenhoft fired 13 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Michael King produced 15 points for lost side. Peristeri GS's coach Argiris Pedoulakis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Panellinios (2-8) moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Iraklis. Loser Peristeri GS dropped to the sixth position with five games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Panellinios will meet at home higher ranked VAP Kolossos (#4) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Peristeri GS will play against PAOK in Thessaloniki and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Thessaloniki supposed to be quite interesting. 6th ranked Marousi (5-5) played at the court of seventh ranked Aris (6-4). Aris smashed Marousi 86-63. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Marousi. Worth to mention a great performance of P.J. Tucker who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Aris moved-up to third place, which they share with VAP Kolossos and Kavala. Marousi at the other side keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Aris' next round opponent will be AEK (#10) in Athens and are hoping to win another game. Marousi will play at home against Ilysiakos (#14) in Athens.
Top-ranked Panathinaikos (10-0) crushed at home 11th ranked Panionios (3-7) by 54 points 109-55, which is the biggest margin this round on Thursday night. Milenko Tepic scored 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Undefeated Panathinaikos have an impressive ten-game winning streak. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Olympiakos. Panionios lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with seven games lost. Panathinaikos will face Ikaros (#9) in Kalitheas in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Panionios will play at home against Iraklis in Thessaloniki and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 10 AEK won against Iraklis on the opponent's court 72-68. Ilysiakos unfortunately lost to PAOK in a home game 66-77.

Panathinaikos - Panionios 109-55

Top-ranked Panathinaikos (10-0) crushed at home 11th ranked Panionios (3-7) by 54 points 109-55, which is the biggest margin this round on Thursday night. The game without a history. Panathinaikos led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Panionios' 32 and made 36-of-42 free shots (85.7 percent) during the game, while Panionios only scored eleven points from the stripe. Panathinaikos outrebounded Panionios 47-17 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Panathinaikos made 7 blocks. Panionios was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. Serbian guard Milenko Tepic (198-87, agency: Beo Basket) scored 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and international guard Nick Calathes (198-89, college: Florida) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists during the contest. Five Panathinaikos players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Keith McLeod (190-79, college: Bowling Green) responded with 23 points and 5 steals and Serbian guard Milos Vujanic (192-80) scored 4 points. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Panathinaikos have an impressive ten-game winning streak. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Olympiakos. Panionios lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with seven games lost. Panathinaikos will face Ikaros (#9) in Kalitheas in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Panionios will play at home against Iraklis in Thessaloniki and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Panionios: K.McLeod 23+1reb, G.Tsiaras 6+1reb+1ast, C.Elonu 4+1reb, V.Kavvadas 4+2reb, M.Vujanic 4+2reb+2ast, M.Batis 2
Panathinaikos: R.Sato 16+2reb, N.Calathes 13+2reb+4ast, I.Vougioukas 12+7reb, M.Batiste 12+3reb, K.Kaimakoglou 11+7reb, M.Tepic 10+6reb+4ast

Iraklis - AEK 68-72

Rather expected game in Thessaloniki where 12th ranked Iraklis (2-8) was defeated by tenth ranked AEK (4-6) 72-68 on Wednesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-15. But Iraklis won second period 20-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. AEK made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Iraklis was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The former international power forward Dimos Dikoudis (207-77) scored 21 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American-Bosnian guard Terell Castle (182-72, college: Nicholls St., agency: Court Side) chipped in 15 points during the contest. Four AEK players scored in double figures. At the losing side forward Fotis Lambropoulos (206-83) responded with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds and forward Giannis Demertzis (194-83) scored 7 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. AEK maintains tenth position with 4-6 record. Iraklis lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the twelfth place with eight games lost. AEK will face higher ranked Aris (#5) in Thessaloniki in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Iraklis will play on the road against Panionios (#11) in Athens and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Iraklis: N.Papanikolopoulos 13+3reb, F.Lambropoulos 10+10reb+3ast, V.Petrovic-Stergiou 10+5reb+2ast, E.Jazvin 9+5reb+1ast, M.Bouldin 9+4reb+2ast, G.Demertzis 7+6reb+5ast
AEK: D.Dikoudis 21+9reb, T.Castle 15+4reb+3ast, P.Dorkofikis 12+8reb+1ast, P.Nikolaidis 11+3reb+6ast, P.Sparks 6+2reb+3ast, L.Mack 4+2reb

Aris - Marousi 86-63

The game in Thessaloniki supposed to be quite interesting. 6th ranked Marousi (5-5) played at the court of seventh ranked Aris (6-4). Aris smashed Marousi 86-63. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Marousi. The game was mostly controlled by Aris. Marousi managed to win second period 19-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Marousi's 32. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward P.J. Tucker (198-85, college: Texas) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. The other American import guard Pierre Pierce (193-83, college: Iowa, agency: Lanshire Group) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Four Aris players scored in double figures. Puerto Rican guard David Huertas (196-87, college: Mississippi) replied with 12 points and 5 rebounds and Serbian-Bosnian guard Feliks Kojadinovic (197-79, agency: BeoExcell) added 8 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Marousi. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Aris moved-up to third place, which they share with VAP Kolossos and Kavala. Marousi at the other side keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Aris' next round opponent will be AEK (#10) in Athens and are hoping to win another game. Marousi will play at home against Ilysiakos (#14) in Athens.
Top scorers:
Marousi: D.Huertas 12+5reb+2ast, D.Bagaric 10+7reb+1ast, D.Clemente 8+2reb+3ast, F.Kojadinovic 8+5reb+5ast, D.Haritopoulos 6+8reb, P.Noeas 6+1ast
Aris: P.Tucker 18+13reb+2ast, P.Pierce 16+3reb+3ast, C.Tapoutos 13+6reb+1ast, D.Borovnjak 12+6reb+1ast, K.Charalampidis 8+3reb+2ast, K.Sloukas 7+1ast

Kavala - Ikaros 66-69

Very important is a home loss of third ranked Kavala (6-4) against ninth ranked Ikaros (5-5) on Wednesday night. Host Kavala was edged by ninth ranked Ikaros (5-5) in a tough game in Kavala 66-69. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Kavala. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 17-10. But Kavala won second period 22-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The former international guard Giannis Kalambokis (195-78, agency: FCM) notched 13 points and 4 assists to lead the effort and American forward Deon Thompson (203-88, college: N.Carolina) supported him with 10 points and 8 rebounds. Even 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists by Belizean guard Milton Palacio (190-78, college: Colorado St.) did not help to save the game for Kavala. Serbian forward Branko Jorovic (205-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points and 10 rebounds for lost side. Four Kavala players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Ikaros moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Kavala at the other side keeps the third position with four games lost. They share it with Aris and VAP Kolossos. Ikaros will play against league's second-placed Panathinaikos in Athens in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Kavala will play on the road against the league's leader Olympiakos in Athens and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kavala: M.Palacio 16+5reb+6ast, S.Karapostolou 15+1reb+1ast, B.Jorovic 14+10reb, C.Simmons 11, N.Aggelopoulos 4, C.Kostov 4+5reb
Ikaros: K.McAlarney 13+1reb+1ast, G.Kalambokis 13+2reb+4ast, D.Thompson 10+8reb, L.Harris 9+2reb+1ast, S.Katoufas 8+5reb+1ast, C.Petrodimopoulos 7+6reb+1ast

VAP Kolossos - Olympiakos 68-71

A1 round 10 most interesting game took place in Rodou (derby !!!) between Olympiakos and VAP Kolossos. Top-ranked Olympiakos (10-0) got a very close victory on the road over 4th ranked VAP Kolossos (6-4). Olympiakos managed to escape with a 3-point win 71-68 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of VAP Kolossos. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 71-68. International guard Vassilis Spanoulis (193-82, agency: Beo Basket) scored 30 points and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Serbian power forward Zoran Erceg (210-85) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side naturalized American swingman Pat Kalathis (208-85, college: St.Joseph's) responded with 23 points and 6 rebounds and guard Angelos Tsamis (192-81) scored 13 points. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Olympiakos have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-0 record, which they share with Panathinaikos. VAP Kolossos at the other side dropped to the third place with four games lost. They share the position with Aris and Kavala. Olympiakos is looking forward to face Kavala (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. VAP Kolossos will play against Panellinios in Athens and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
VAP Kolossos: P.Kalathis 23+6reb+3ast, A.Tsamis 13+3reb+3ast, J.Golemac 9+4reb, C.Harissis 8+7reb+1ast, P.Kafkis 5+2reb+2ast, A.Asimakopoulos 4+1reb
Olympiakos: V.Spanoulis 30+2reb+4ast, A.Glyniadakis 11, Z.Erceg 11+5reb+1ast, M.Teodosic 7+1reb+3ast, K.Papanikolaou 4+1reb, G.Jamon Lukas 3+1reb

Peristeri GS - Panellinios 57-60

Bottom-ranked Panellinios managed to get a second victory, breaking the six-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time they edged fifth-ranked Peristeri GS in Athens 60-57. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 60-57. American swingman Joseph Krabbenhoft (201-87, college: Wisconsin, agency: N.E.T.) fired 13 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American-Jamaican guard Maurice Bailey (183-81, college: Sacred Heart) chipped in 17 points. American guard Michael King (193-78, college: George Washington, agency: Strategic Sports) produced 15 points and Antiguan-American power forward Kurt Looby (208-84, college: Iowa) added 7 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Peristeri GS's coach Argiris Pedoulakis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Panellinios (2-8) moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Iraklis. Loser Peristeri GS dropped to the sixth position with five games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Panellinios will meet at home higher ranked VAP Kolossos (#4) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Peristeri GS will play against PAOK in Thessaloniki and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Peristeri GS: M.King 15+2reb+2ast, D.Papanikolaou 9+1reb+1ast, E.Scott 9+4reb, J.Sensley 7+2reb, K.Looby 7+8reb, E.Mantzaris 4+2ast
Panellinios: M.Bailey 17+2reb, J.Krabbenhoft 13+6reb+2ast, D.Ostojic 10+6reb, S.Smith 7+7reb+2ast, D.Kompodietas 3, M.Kolokas 3+1reb

Ilysiakos - PAOK 66-77

Very predictable result in Athens where eighth ranked PAOK (5-5) defeated bottom-ranked Ilysiakos (1-9) 77-66 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 77-66. PAOK forced 21 Ilysiakos turnovers. American-Guyanese guard Rawle Marshall (201-82, college: Oakland) scored 19 points and 9 steals to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Justin Gray (188-84, college: Wake Forest) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Four PAOK players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Jimmy Baxter (198-80, college: S.Florida) responded with 13 points and 5 assists and guard Alexis Kiritsis (198-82) scored 14 points. Ilysiakos' coach Kostas Flevarakis let to play eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. PAOK moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Ilysiakos dropped to the bottom position with nine games lost. PAOK will face Peristeri GS (#6) in Athens in the next round. Ilysiakos will play on the road against Marousi (#8).
Top scorers:
Ilysiakos: A.Kiritsis 14+2reb+2ast, J.Baxter 13+4reb+5ast, E.Webb 11+2reb+4ast, N.Chatzis 9+2reb+3ast, L.Prowell 8+2reb, L.Kaselakis 4+3reb+2ast
PAOK: R.Marshall 19+3reb+3ast, J.Gray 16+5reb+3ast, G.Dedas 14+3reb+2ast, L.Papadopoulos 10+5reb+1ast, T.Gechevski 7+7reb, G.Apostolidis 7+1reb+7ast

Big changes at relegation battling Iraklis - by George Fragkos
Iraklis Thessaloniki undergoes big changes in order to stay away from relegation from the A1. After the resignation of Darko Russo (agency: Beo Basket ), the people of the club decided to rely their hopes on an experienced Greek coach, Giorgos Kalafatakis (agency: Interperformances ), who is considered to be one of the best choices in situations like that. Kalafatakis will start working immediately and it will not be a surprise if he is on the bench at Sundays game against Panionios.

Moreover, Iraklis Thessaloniki are very close to signing William Avery (188-G-79, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Duke), the 31-year-old American guard, who has played for a lot of years in Greece with the jersey of Panionios, AEK, Trikala and PAOK. The only slightly concerning issue about him is that he has not played for a club for more than a whole year and his current condition is something unknown to everyone.

A1: Week 10 - Panathinaikos - Panionios 109-55! - by Chris Mammides
In an amazing game where many records have been broken, Zeljko Obradovic 's team thrashed (double score minus one point) the team of Coach Giorgos Bartzokas with 54 points difference! In a game where seven Green players had double digits (Tepic 10, Batiste 12, Fotsis 10, Sato 10, Vougioukas 12, Nick Calathes

(198-G-89, college: Florida) 13 and Kaimakoglou 11) and in a game where 3D - Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) broke the Hellenic record of the assists (Angelos Koronios (185-G-69) record was valid for more than seven years) and is now leading the specific category of all times with his six assists today and the total of 1.267 assit in his career. The 54 points of difference is teh second best record for the team of Panathinaikos Athens after the 60 points difference over Makedonikos some years ago.

The other records that Panathinaikos Athens broke tonight are the number of points as the 109 is the highest number this year (in the opener of this seazons league PAO scored 108), while the difference of the 54 points is the biggest against Panionios and the seventh bigger in the history of Panathinaikos Athens. At the same time the 51 rebounds is this seazon's record in the division while the 7 block shots and the 18 assists for the Greens are the top numbers this seazon. Panionios achieved also one record as the 10 steals that Coach Giorgos Bartzokas players succeeded over Panathinaikos Athens players is among the top numbers of Panionios this seazon.

PAOK punished for four games - by Giorgos Diploidis
PAOK Thessaloniki yesterday (05/01) was punished for the behavior of its fans in the game against Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus in the Greek Cup . The team of Soulis Markopoulos will have to play four games without its audience and it will pay 23.400 as fine.

This means that will have to play without people in the games against Kavala, Panathinaikos, Aris and Panionios. However the next game vs Peristeri this Saturday will be available for the supporters of the club. This decision was an economical 'hit' for the team of Thessaloniki because the two of four are derbies against Panathinaikos, Aris and the board was expecting a lot of money to get in from the tickets.

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HOLLAND

DBL Round 19: Giants defeat DeFriesland in overtime - by Eurobasket News
6th ranked DeFriesland (9-10) fell to eighth ranked Giants (6-13) in overtime by nine points 80-89 on Thursday night. The game took place in Leeuwarden. But the guests from Bergen op Zoom were better at the end. The guests were tied at the half and again at the end of regular time. But they managed to win overtime period 16-7. 27 personal fouls committed by DeFriesland helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Tim Blue (205-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who helped to win the game recording 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. His fellow American import guard Jesse Kimbrough (183-82, college: Jacksonville) contributed with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Giants' coach Weird Goedee used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American-Mexican forward Mark Sanchez (201-87, college: Boise St.) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists for DeFriesland. Giants maintains eighth place with 6-13 record. DeFriesland at the other side keeps the sixth position with ten games lost. Giants are looking forward to face league's leader GasTerra in Groningen in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. DeFriesland will play on the road against Magixx (#4) in Nijmegen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for ZZ Leiden (15-3) which hosted in Leiden 4th placed Magixx (11-8). Second ranked ZZ Leiden had an easy win 69-52. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Magixx. It was a great evening for American power forward Jesse Smith (211-82, college: Idaho St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. Worthy de Jong helped adding 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. At the losing side American forward Markel Humphrey (198-87, college: Marshall) responded with 16 points and 9 rebounds. ZZ Leiden have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain second place with 15-3 record behind leader GasTerra. Magixx at the other side keeps the fourth position with eight games lost. ZZ Leiden will play against BS Weert (#5) on the road in the next round. Magixx will play against DeFriesland in Leeuwarden and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
DBL top team - GasTerra (16-2) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat tenth ranked Rotterdam (1-18) in Groningen 75-71. It was a quality performance for Jason Dourisseau who led the winners and scored 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Patrick Hilliman came up with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds for Rotterdam in the defeat. Defending champion maintains first place with 16-2 record. Rotterdam lost their fifth game in a row. They stay dead last with 18 lost games. GasTerra will meet at home Giants (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Rotterdam will play against ABC in Amsterdam.
The game in Amsterdam supposed to be quite interesting. Third ranked Eiffel Towers (14-5) played at the court of 7th ranked ABC (7-12). Eiffel Towers smashed ABC 87-66. Julien Mills fired 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. ABC's coach Hakim Salem gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Eiffel Towers. They maintain third place with 14-5 record having just one points less than leader GasTerra. ABC lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 12 games lost. Eiffel Towers' next round opponent will be Landstede (#9) in Zwolle which should be theoretically another easy game. ABC will play on the road against Rotterdam.

In the last game of round 19 BS Weert beat Landstede on the road 64-60.

Landstede - BS Weert 60-64

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked BS Weert (10-9) beat 9th ranked Landstede (5-14) in Zwolle 64-60. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-13. But Landstede won second period 14-11. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. BS Weert made 17-of-22 charity shots (77.3 percent) during the game. American players dominated the game. Forward Lawrence Hamm (198-84, college: Towson, agency: Court Side) fired a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Guard Trey McDowell (188-85, college: Louisiana Tech) chipped in 15 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Howard Crawford (203-88, college: UAB, agency: Interperformances) produced 16 points and 7 rebounds and guard Lawrence Borha (191-84, college: Utah, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 15 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. BS Weert maintains fifth place with 10-9 record. Landstede lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the ninth position with 14 games lost. BS Weert's next round opponent will be league's second-placed ZZ Leiden at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Landstede will play against Eiffel Towers (#3) in Den Bosch.
Top scorers:
Landstede: H.Crawford 16+7reb, L.Borha 15+6reb+2ast, H.Marshall 13+3reb+3ast, N.Hulzebos 8+6reb, R.Van der Kamp 2+1reb+2ast, A.Bunnig 2+6reb
BS Weert: L.Hamm 17+10reb+1ast, T.McDowell 15+6reb+4ast, K.van Kempen 10+7reb+1ast, G.Stokes 8+3reb+2ast, J.Hairston 6+5reb+2ast, D.Minter 6+2reb+1ast

GasTerra - Rotterdam 75-71

DBL top team - GasTerra (16-2) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat tenth ranked Rotterdam (1-18) in Groningen 75-71. Rotterdam was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 7-point lead after three quarters before a 24-13 charge of GasTerra, which allowed them to win the game. GasTerra outrebounded Rotterdam 58-31 including a 29-11 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a quality performance for American guard Jason Dourisseau (196-83, college: Nebraska) who led the winners and scored 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Canadian swingman Steve Ross (201-80, college: Santa Clara, agency: Court Side) accounted for 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. International power forward Patrick Hilliman (206-82, college: High Point, agency: R.H.Consultancy) came up with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and the former international forward Daniel Jones (200-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 18 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Rotterdam in the defeat. Four Rotterdam players scored in double figures. Defending champion maintains first place with 16-2 record. Rotterdam lost their fifth game in a row. They stay dead last with 18 lost games. GasTerra will meet at home Giants (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Rotterdam will play against ABC in Amsterdam.
Top scorers:
Rotterdam: J.Ormskerk 18+2reb+2ast, D.Jones 18+5reb+1ast, P.Hilliman 16+11reb+3ast, S.Mladenovic 12+3reb+5ast, R.Sihota 5+10reb+1ast, G.Slagter 2+2ast
GasTerra: J.Dourisseau 14+8reb+5ast, S.Ross 13+10reb, A.Roye 11+1reb+2ast, M.Bauscher 9+6reb+5ast, J.Ellis 8+11reb, M.Haryasz 8+8reb+2ast

DeFriesland - Giants 80-89 OT

6th ranked DeFriesland (9-10) fell to eighth ranked Giants (6-13) in overtime by nine points 80-89 on Thursday night. The game took place in Leeuwarden. But the guests from Bergen op Zoom were better at the end. The guests were tied at the half and again at the end of regular time. But they managed to win overtime period 16-7. 27 personal fouls committed by DeFriesland helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Tim Blue (205-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who helped to win the game recording 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. His fellow American import guard Jesse Kimbrough (183-82, college: Jacksonville) contributed with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Giants' coach Weird Goedee used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American-Mexican forward Mark Sanchez (201-87, college: Boise St.) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists and American guard Todd Brown (196-87, college: Wright St.) added 14 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for DeFriesland. Four Giants and five DeFriesland players scored in double figures. Giants maintains eighth place with 6-13 record. DeFriesland at the other side keeps the sixth position with ten games lost. Giants are looking forward to face league's leader GasTerra in Groningen in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. DeFriesland will play on the road against Magixx (#4) in Nijmegen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
DeFriesland: M.Sanchez 18+13reb+4ast, C.Chitwood 15+8reb, J.Williams 15+3reb+2ast, T.Brown 14+9reb+3ast, M.Adako 10+4reb+1ast, B.Rozendaal 6+5reb+1ast
Giants: T.Blue 21+6reb+5ast, B.Griffin 19+9reb+1ast, J.Kimbrough 16+9reb+6ast, T.Theeuwkens 15+5reb+1ast, A.Morgan 7+3reb+3ast, T.Tiedeman 5+2reb

ZZ Leiden - Magixx 69-52

An interesting game for ZZ Leiden (15-3) which hosted in Leiden 4th placed Magixx (11-8). Second ranked ZZ Leiden had an easy win 69-52. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Magixx. It looked good early as Magixx took an 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then ZZ Leiden had a 25-14 second period charge getting the lead and Magixx was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 52-69. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Magixx to just 6 points in third quarter. ZZ Leiden dominated down low during the game scoring 44 of its points in the paint compared to Magixx's 22. ZZ Leiden had a 34-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for American power forward Jesse Smith (211-82, college: Idaho St.) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds. Guard Worthy de Jong (194-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy) helped adding 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. At the losing side American forward Markel Humphrey (198-87, college: Marshall) responded with 16 points and 9 rebounds and the former international power forward Nick Oudendag (210-87) scored 7 points and 10 rebounds. ZZ Leiden have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain second place with 15-3 record behind leader GasTerra. Magixx at the other side keeps the fourth position with eight games lost. ZZ Leiden will play against BS Weert (#5) on the road in the next round. Magixx will play against DeFriesland in Leeuwarden and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Magixx: M.Humphrey 16+9reb+2ast, T.Vermeulen 12+1reb, B.Laing 9+6reb+1ast, N.Oudendag 7+10reb, K.McCleery 3+3reb, J.van Vugt 3+1reb+1ast
ZZ Leiden: J.Smith 19+13reb+1ast, W.de Jong 13+7reb+4ast, M.McGhee 9+4reb+2ast, R.Bekkering 9+6reb+2ast, T.Sas 7+4reb+1ast, A.Slagter 5+2reb+2ast

ABC - Eiffel Towers 66-87

The game in Amsterdam supposed to be quite interesting. Third ranked Eiffel Towers (14-5) played at the court of 7th ranked ABC (7-12). Eiffel Towers smashed ABC 87-66. The game was mostly controlled by Eiffel Towers. ABC managed to win third quarter 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American swingman Julien Mills (193-85, college: Ball St., agency: Warren Sports International) fired 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. His fellow American import guard Frank Turner (178-88, college: Canisius, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Five Eiffel Towers players scored in double figures. Surinamese forward Sergio de Randamie (201-84, college: Houston, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) produced 16 points and 9 rebounds and swingman Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-91, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 14 points respectively for lost side. ABC's coach Hakim Salem gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Eiffel Towers. They maintain third place with 14-5 record having just one points less than leader GasTerra. ABC lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 12 games lost. Eiffel Towers' next round opponent will be Landstede (#9) in Zwolle which should be theoretically another easy game. ABC will play on the road against Rotterdam.
Top scorers:
ABC: S.de Randamie 16+9reb+2ast, D.Van Der Horst 14+3reb+3ast, H.Kherrazi 10+4reb, R.de Pagter 9+6reb+2ast, J.Voorn 7+1reb, R.Siljade 5+4reb
Eiffel Towers: K.Akerboom 19+4reb, R.Jansen 15+2reb+6ast, F.Turner 14+4reb+5ast, D.Steenvoorde 13+6reb, J.Mills 13+6reb+5ast, S.Wessels 9+4reb+2ast

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ICELAND

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings

1. Snaefell		11-1
2. Grindavik		10-2
3. Keflavik		8-4
4. KR		8-4
5. Haukar		6-6
6. Stjarnan		6-6
7. Tindastoll		5-7
8. Hamar		5-7
9. Fjolnir		4-8
10. Njardvik		4-8
11. IR		3-9
12. KFI		2-10

Express League transfer updates - by Eurobasket News
Express League season continued after the Christmas break. There were some changes in the teams rosters.
KFI landed Richard McNutt (203-F-86, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Mount Aloysius). Richard McNutt started the season in the United Kingdom. He tallied 1.3 points and 2.3 boards per game for the Sheffield Sharks.
IR strengthened their roster with addition of Jimmy Bartolotta (193-G-86, college: MIT). The 24-year-old guard graduated from MIT back in 2009. He tallied 27.6 points, 6.2 boards, 2.9 assists and 2.0 steals per game in his senior NCAA3 season.
Thomas Sanders (191-G-85, agency: Duran International, college: Gardner-Webb) inked a deal with Keflavik. The 25-year-old guard recently played for Illescas Urban CLM in Spain. He tallied 9.7 points, 4.6 boards and 1.3 steals per LEB Silver appearance.
Fjolnir added Brandon Springer (188-G) to their roster. The 23-year-old guard graduated from Tennessee-Martin.
Stjarnan also bolstered their squad. They added Renato Lindmets (198-F-84, college: Westfield St.). The US-Estonian forward tipped off the season in Rakvere. The player averaged 10.1 points, 5.3 boards and 1.8 assists per game in EKML. In Baltic League his stats read 8.9 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per appearance.

Express L. Round 12: Leader Snaefell gets another victory - by Eurobasket News
Leader Snaefell delivered the eleventh win on Thursday night. This time they beat 9th ranked Fjolnir (4-8) 97-86 in Stykkisholmur. The game was mostly controlled by Snaefell. Fjolnir managed to win fourth quarter 31-28. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. Snaefell had a 35-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The best player for the winners was American-Italian forward Ryan Amoroso (203-85, college: San Diego St.) who had a double-double by scoring 27 points and 16 rebounds. Forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) chipped in 20 points and 12 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Brandon Springer who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Snaefell (11-1) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Fjolnir lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with eight games lost. They share the position with Njardvik. Snaefell are looking forward to face Keflavik (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Fjolnir will play against Stjarnan (#6) and is hoping to prove to their fans that they can break losing series.
The game in Stjarnan was quite interesting. Fourth ranked KR (8-4) played at the court of 5th ranked Stjarnan (6-6). KR did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 95-76. It was a good game for the former international swingman Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. Brynjar Bjoernsson contributed with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. KR's coach Hrafn Kristjansson allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) replied with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for Stjarnan. KR moved-up to third place, which they share with Keflavik. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Haukar. KR will play against Hamar (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Stjarnan will play against Fjolnir and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Reykjavik. Local IR (3-9) was outscored by third ranked Keflavik (8-4) 112-88 on Thursday night. Worth to mention a quality performance of Axel Vilhjalmsson who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 9 rebounds and 12 assists. The best for the losing side was Kelly Biedler with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Keflavik maintains third position with 8-4 record having just three points less than leader Snaefell, which they share with KR. Loser IR keeps the eleventh place with nine games lost. Keflavik will meet at home league's leader Snaefell in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. IR will play against Njardvik (#10) in Njardvik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Rest of the games of round 12 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
bottom-ranked KFI was defeated by Tindastoll in Sauoarkrokur 85-71. Haukar beat Hamar at home 82-74. Njardvik lost to Grindavik on the opponent's court 78-86.

Tindastoll - KFI 85-71

There was no surprise in Sauoarkrokur where 12th ranked KFI (2-10) was defeated by eighth ranked Tindastoll (5-7) 85-71 on Thursday. Tindastoll forced 21 KFI turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Hayward Fain (196, college: St.Augustine, agency: Strategic Sports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals and guard Friarik Hreinsson (184-81) who added 25 points during the contest. Four Tindastoll players scored in double figures. Tindastoll's coach Borce Ilievski used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was the former international swingman Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87) with 13 points and 8 rebounds and Serbian forward Darco Milosevic (196) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds. Tindastoll moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Hamar. KFI lost ninth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with ten games lost. Tindastoll will meet at home higher ranked Haukar (#5) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. KFI will play against the league's second-placed Grindavik (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Tindastoll: F.Hreinsson 25+1reb, H.Fain 19+14reb+6ast, D.Kitanovic 13+4reb, S.Birgisson 12+3reb+3ast, H.Viggosson 9+10reb+3ast, H.Halldorsson 3+2reb
KFI: D.Milosevic 18+5reb+1ast, C.Josey 14+4reb+2ast, M.Milicevic 13+8reb+3ast, C.Schoen 8+2reb+2ast, R.McNutt 7+6reb, N.Knezevic 7+3reb+1ast

Haukar - Hamar 82-74

Everything could happen in Hafnarfjordur at the game between two tied teams. Both sixth ranked Haukar and 7th ranked Hamar had identical 5-6 record. This time Haukar used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Hamar 82-74 on Thursday night. Hamar trailed by 12 points at halftime and as many as 14 after three quarters before a 30-24 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 74-82 at the end of the game. Haukar made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Haukar had a 41-30 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Haukar made 10 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of Dutch-American forward Gerald Robinson (204-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 29 points and 19 rebounds and American guard Semaj Inge (193-87, college: Temple) who added 15 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 blocks during the contest. Four Haukar players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American guard Andre Dabney (175-83, college: Bloomfield) with 28 points and 8 rebounds and the former international center Ragnar Nathanaelsson (218-91) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points, 19 rebounds and 5 blocks. Haukar has a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Stjarnan. Hamar lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with seven games lost. They share it with Tindastoll. Haukar will meet Tindastoll (#7) in the next round. Hamar will play against KR in Reykjavik and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Haukar: G.Robinson 29+19reb+2ast, S.Inge 15+11reb+6ast, E.Barja 11+9reb+4ast, S.Sveinsson 11+6reb+2ast, H.Askarsson 9+5reb+2ast, S.Haraldsson 3+1reb+4ast
Hamar: A.Dabney 28+8reb+3ast, K.Karason 13+1ast, R.Nathanaelsson 10+19reb, E.Arnarson 9+1reb+6ast, D.Hilmarsson 7+8reb+2ast, S.Thorvaldsson 3

Stjarnan - KR 76-95

The game in Stjarnan was quite interesting. Fourth ranked KR (8-4) played at the court of 5th ranked Stjarnan (6-6). KR did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 95-76. The game was mostly controlled by KR. Stjarnan managed to win second period 31-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 26-of-29 charity shots (89.7 percent) during the game. Stjarnan was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for the former international swingman Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals. The former international guard Brynjar Bjoernsson (191-88, college: Francis Marion) contributed with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. KR's coach Hrafn Kristjansson allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) replied with 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and forward Renato Lindmets added 16 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Stjarnan. Four Stjarnan players scored in double figures. KR moved-up to third place, which they share with Keflavik. Stjarnan at the other side keeps the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with Haukar. KR will play against Hamar (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Stjarnan will play against Fjolnir and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
KR: P.Ermolinskij 24+12reb+6ast, M.Walker 23+1ast, B.Bjoernsson 17+6reb+6ast, F.Magnusson 8+1reb+1ast, J.Kristjansson 7+6reb, F.Alafsson 6+5reb+1ast
Stjarnan: J.Shouse 19+5reb+7ast, F.Helgason 16+2reb+3ast, R.Lindmets 16+10reb+2ast, M.Valdimarsson 12+6reb, D.Guamundsson 7+3reb+3ast, A.Ingvason 3+1reb

Snaefell - Fjolnir 97-86

Leader Snaefell delivered the eleventh win on Thursday night. This time they beat 9th ranked Fjolnir (4-8) 97-86 in Stykkisholmur. The game was mostly controlled by Snaefell. Fjolnir managed to win fourth quarter 31-28. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. Snaefell had a 35-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The best player for the winners was American-Italian forward Ryan Amoroso (203-85, college: San Diego St.) who had a double-double by scoring 27 points and 16 rebounds. Forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) chipped in a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Brandon Springer who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and the former international forward Ingvaldur Hafsteinsson (200-81) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Four Snaefell and five Fjolnir players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Snaefell (11-1) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Fjolnir lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with eight games lost. They share the position with Njardvik. Snaefell are looking forward to face Keflavik (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Fjolnir will play against Stjarnan (#6) and is hoping to prove to their fans that they can break losing series.
Top scorers:
Snaefell: R.Amoroso 27+16reb+1ast, J.Olafur Jonsson 20+12reb+2ast, S.Burton 17+2reb+13ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 16+5reb+5ast, E.Egilsson 5+2reb+1ast, S.Daviasson 5+3reb+1ast
Fjolnir: B.Ja Juan Springer 20+10reb, I.Hafsteinsson 16+7reb, S.Karason 14+7reb, T.Tomasson 14+2reb+2ast, A.Steinarsson 10+2reb+10ast, A.Guamundsson 5

IR - Keflavik 88-112

The game with biggest result difference took place in Reykjavik. Local IR (3-9) was outscored by third ranked Keflavik (8-4) 112-88 on Thursday night. The game without a history. Keflavik led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to IR's 38. Keflavik looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by IR's players. Worth to mention a quality performance of the former international guard Axel Vilhjalmsson (188-88) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 9 rebounds and 12 assists and Sanders who added 24 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was American forward Kelly Biedler (196-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's) with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Keflavik maintains third position with 8-4 record having just three points less than leader Snaefell, which they share with KR. Loser IR keeps the eleventh place with nine games lost. Keflavik will meet at home league's leader Snaefell in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. IR will play against Njardvik (#10) in Njardvik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Keflavik: A.Vilhjalmsson 27+9reb+12ast, T.Sanders 24+5reb+5ast, G.Aorsteinsson 20+6reb+1ast, L.Johannsson 16+4reb+3ast, A.Guabrandsson 6+4reb+1ast, J.Hafsteinsson 6+1ast
IR: J.Bartolotta 26+2reb, E.Onundarson 20+5reb+1ast, K.Biedler 16+16reb+3ast, N.Sovic 15+3reb+1ast, S.Claesson 6+3reb, K.Jonasson 2+3reb+1ast

Grindavik - Njardvik 86-78

Very expected game when 10th ranked Njardvik (4-8) was defeated on the road by second ranked Grindavik (10-2) 86-78 on Thursday. Njardvik was trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 26-15 charge of Grindavik, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international swingman Aorleifur Alafsson (192-84) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists and the former international swingman Pall Axel Vilbergsson (197-78) who added 21 points during the contest. Four Grindavik players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Christopher Smith (198-82, college: St.Edward's) with 24 points and 6 rebounds and forward Hjoertur Einarsson (194-89) scored 14 points. Njardvik's coach Sigurour Ingimundarson rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Grindavik has a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 10-2 record behind leader Snaefell. Loser Njardvik dropped to the ninth place with eight games lost. They share the position with Fjolnir. Grindavik will meet bottom-ranked KFI (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Njardvik will play against IR in Reykjavik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Grindavik: P.Axel Vilbergsson 21+3reb+3ast, A.Alafsson 17+10reb+7ast, G.Eyjolfsson 14+2reb+3ast, A.Savarsson 12+6reb, A.Vilbergsson 9+1reb+1ast, R.Pettinella 6+11reb+1ast
Njardvik: C.Smith 24+6reb+3ast, H.Einarsson 14+4reb+1ast, G.Jonsson 10+5reb+2ast, J.Alafsson 9+4reb+2ast, F.Stefansson 5+7reb, M.Gunnarsson 5+5reb+4ast

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ITALY

A Dilettanti, Round 15 - by Armando Caporaso
Group A

In the first round of the new year Trento wins the big-match of the day against Brescia for 89-75. Thanks this victory and the simultaneous defeat of Perugia the Bitumcalor remains alone on top with 12-3. The hosts start very good but, after a bad second quarter, in the last 10 minutes close the match with a partial of 30-17. The top scorer is Luca Conte (193-G-80, agency: Interperformances) with 19 points and 8/13 at shoot, 17 points and 10 assist for Simone Ferrarese (182-G-87) (but 9 turnovers), double-double also for Andrea Benevelli (202-F-85) with 17 points and 11 rebounds, 14 points of Nicola Natali (198-G-88), 12 points for Diego Zivic (198-F/C-76) with 5 rebounds and 4 assist and only 7 points for Luca Gandini (205-F-85, agency: Interperformances) with 9 rebounds and 20 of ranking. For the Centrale del Latte not enough the performances of Lorenzo Gergati

(188-G-84) with 21 points and 4 steals and of Mario Jose Ghersetti

(200-F-81) with 22 points and 8/11 at shoot (4/4 by 3). For the others 13 points of Nicholas Crow (199-F-89), 9 points and 6 rebounds for Massimo Farioli

(202-F/C-77, agency: Interperformances) and 7 points with 4 assist of Franko Bushati

(188-G-85). With a perfect game Castelletto exceeds Perugia and stops the race of the Liomatic that lose the top of the standing. In the 101-77 final amazing match of the SBS with 29/42 by 2 (69%), 26 steals, 16 assist and 8 blocks! The top scorer is the Argentinian Franco Prelazzi (205-F/C-79) with 22 points adding 8 rebounds and 4 steals helped by Andrea Marusic (196-F-89) that closes with 20 points and Daniele Sandri

(195-F/G-90) that scores 18 points with 5 steals and 4 assist. Good job for Luciano Masieri (200-F-76) with 16 points and 6 rebounds and for Matteo Raminelli

(203-C-83) with 11 points, 3 assist and 5 blocks! For the Liomatic fourth defeat of the season, 24 points of Bernardo Musso (193-G-86) with 3 steals and 8/15 at shoot, 14 points and 6 rebounds of Giovanni Carenza (202-F-88, college: St.Anselm), 12 points for Simone Bonamente (202-C-79) and Marco Pazzi

(203-C-79) (but 6 turnovers) and only 9 points with 4 assist for Mattia Caroldi (185-G-82). The other results:

Garda Riva - Aps Trieste 68-74 (M.Benfatto 19 pts, F.Vidani 5 stl, M.Bastoni 3 ass, D.Magro 5 reb)
PentaG. Ozzano - Paffoni Omegna 59-86 (S.Cortesi 16 pts, L.Zaccariello 9 reb & 4 ass, G.Sanguinetti 4 stl)
Goldengas Senigallia - Fortezza Recanati 68-65 (M.Gnaccarini 18 pts & 9 ass, R.Pederzini 18 pts, O.Chiaramello 15 reb & 6 ass)
Copra Piacenza - P.Mitchell Pavia 80-76 (D.Scodavolpe 22 pts, R.Perego-R.Cazzaniga 9 reb, S.Borgna-M.Passera 20 pts)
Edilcost Osimo - Co.Mark Treviglio 76-79 (V.DiCapua 25 pts, A.Vitale 22 pts & 7 stl, J.Borra 10 reb & 3 blk, T.Marino 4 ass)
Consum.it Siena - Zerouno Moncalieri 65-60 (D.Casadei 20 pts & 9 reb & 5 stl, C.Masper-S.Cotani 9 reb, M.Ibro' 3 ass)

Group B

In the 2011 Ruvo still does not stop and win another game confirming the first place with only 2 defeat. Against Bisceglie the Adriatica controls the match from the first quarter driven by Simone Bonfiglio (181-G-88) with 23 points and 6/11 by 3... but the MVP is certainly Andrea Zerini (201-F-88, agency: Interperformances) that closes with the a double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds adding 4 steals, 3 assist and 3 blocks (32 of ranking)! For the others 10 points and 4 steals+4 assist of Andrea Malamov (196-G-83) (but 2/12 at shoot) and only 9 points of Francesco Ihedioha (196-F-86, agency: Interperformances) but with 7 steals, 6 rebounds and 3 assist. For the Ambrosia 17 points of Francesco Gori (196-G-77) with a perfect 8/8 in the free throws, 10 points and 5 rebounds of Marko Micevic (199-F-89) (starting by bench), 9 points for Carlos Mainoldi (204-F/C-78) with 6 rebounds, 4 steals but also 1/7 by 3 and 7 points of Andrea Raschi (200-G/F-79, agency: Interperformances) with as many steals but 8 turnovers! For the second place Ostuni wins against Potenza (92-82) thanks a great third quarter and the excellent offensive performance of Antonio Ruggiero (190-G-81) that scores 32 points with 10/15 at shoot + 7/8 in the free throws and catches 7 rebounds (34 of ranking). For the other players there are 22 points of Domenico Morena (210-F/C-70) with 5 rebounds and 9/14 at shoot, 16 points for Mario Gigena (198-F-77) with 4 steals and 5 assist and 10 points + 10 rebounds for Francesco Basei

(207-C-83). For the Publisys 18 points of Stefano Scrocco (200-G/F-77, agency: Players Group) and Albano Chiarastella (196-F-85), 14 points with 8 rebounds and 3 assist for Simone Bagnoli

(206-F/C-81) and 15 points with 3 steals for Marco Giuri

(192-G-88). Trapani wins on the court of Molfetta for 84-79 and confirms the third place despite the wins of Anagni and Rieti. Marco Evangelisti (198-G-84) led the team with 24 points and 8/12 at shoot, 22 points and 8/8 in the free throws for Ariel Svoboda (192-G-85, agency: Players Group), 15 points and 8 rebounds of Walter Santarossa

(200-F-78), 10 points for Luca Bisconti (206-F/C-82) and 9 points for Francesco Guarino (182-G-79) with 4 steals and 7 assist. For the hosts ninth defeat, 20 points of Giovanni Rugolo

(196-G/F-81) with 5/12 at shoot and 9/10 in the free throws (10 fouls suffered), 17 points of Jacopo Pozzi (200-F-87) with 6 rebounds and 5 steals and 15 points for Andrea Maggi (185-G/F-80). The other matches:

FMC Ferentino - Ircop Rieti 93-100 (D.Zambon 29 pts & 11 reb, F.Becerra 21 pts, D.Virgilio 8 ass, S.Rabaglietti 3 stl)
Ascom Patti - Moncada Agrigento 64-61 (M.Bonaiuti 22 pts, I.Riva 8 reb, T.Gullo 8 stl, A.Ancellotti 2 blk)
Cisa Massafra - Itop Palestrina 74-81 (S.Lenardon 18 pts & 4 ass, A.Capitanelli 17 pts & 13 reb & 5 blk)
Romana Anagni - Benacquista Latina 64-55 (R.Santolamazza 12 pts & 3 stl, M.Soloperto 10 reb, G.Bruni 3 ass)
AD S.Antimo - Bawer Matera 77-60 (F.Gagliardo 18 pts, S.Gatti 8 reb, C.Cantone 8 ass, J.Valentini 3 stl)

Ruggiero's 32-point game gives him A dilettanti Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old guard Antonio Ruggiero (190-G-81) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Ostuni and receives a Eurobasket.com A dilettanti Player of the Week award for round 15.
He had the game-high 32 points adding seven rebounds and two assists for Ostuni in his team's victory, helping them to beat Potenza (#14, 5-10) 92-82. Ostuni maintains the 2nd position in Italian A dilettanti. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Ostuni will need more victories to improve their 11-4 record. In the team's last game Ruggiero had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range and got five three-pointers out of 7 attempts. It's his second year at Ostuni and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Antonio Ruggiero averages this season 14.9ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Davide Zambon (203-F-78) of Rieti. He is a forward in his first season at Rieti. In the last game Zambon recorded impressive double-double of 29 points and 11 rebounds. Of course Rieti cruised to a 100-93 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Ferentino (#8, 8-7). This victory allowed Rieti to move up to 5th position in group B. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 8-6 record is not bad and everything may still change. Zambon is a newcomer at Rieti and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Andrea Zerini (201-F-88, agency: Interperformances) of league's leader Ruvo. Zerini scored 10 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Ruvo, leading his team to a 65-60 win against the lower-ranked Bisceglie (#6, 8-7). Ruvo confirms their top position in group B Zerini has a great season in Italy. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 8.9rpg (6th best). He also has 2.1spg, 2.1bpg and FGP: 63.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jacopo Borra (212-C-90) of Treviglio - 13 points and 10 rebounds
5. Fernando Becerra (190-F-81) of Rieti - 21 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Andrea Capitanelli (203-C-86) of Palestrina - 17 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Marco Gnaccarini (185-G-81) of Senigallia - 18 points, 3 rebounds and 9 assists
8. Oscar Chiaramello (200-F/C-72) of Recanati - 10 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Matteo Raminelli (203-C-83) of Castelletto - 11 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Andrea Vitale (199-G/F-82) of Treviglio - 22 points and 6 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)

Armani Jeans Milano and Tomas Van Den Spiegel part ways - by Eurobasket News
Armani Jeans Milano decided not to keep Tomas Van Den Spiegel

(214-C-78) for rest of the season. The experienced big guy was signed on a 2-month deal, which expired and Van Den Spiegel already became a free agent. He played five Euroleague games for Milano averaging 2 points and 1.8 rebounds. In SerieA, he had 6 ppg and 3 rpg for five games.

Italian Lega2 round 14 best performance: Ndudi Ebi - by Eurobasket News
Nigerian forward Ndudi Ebi (206-F-84, agency: Priority Sports) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Aget Imola, receiving a Eurobasket.com Lega2 Player of the Week award for round 14.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 34 points and 15 rebounds, while his team edged out Assigeco (#11, 5-9) 78-77. Aget Imola is placed at 7th position in Italian Lega2. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Aget Imola will need more victories to improve their 8-6 record. In the team's last game Ebi had a remarkable 59.1% from 2-point range. He turned to be Aget Imola's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Arizona star has very solid stats this year. Ebi is in league's top in points (5th best: 19.3ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 9.0rpg) and averages impressive 1.2bpg,2.9spg and 58.6% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Jason Williams (197-G/F-83) of league's second-best Snaidero UD. Williams had a very good evening with a double-double of 29 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Snaidero UD cruised to a 73-64 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked N.Ferrara (#9, 6-8). Snaidero UD's second position in the standings has not changed. His team's 11-3 record is not bad at all. Williams is a newcomer at Snaidero UD, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American swingman Terrence Roderick (195-G/F-88, agency: Interperformances) of Immobiliare SR (#4). Roderick scored 29 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was a key player of Immobiliare SR, leading his team to a 82-74 win against the lower-ranked San Severo (#16, 1-13). Immobiliare SR needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 9 victories and 5 lost games. Roderick has a great season in Italy. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.3ppg (8th best). He also has 3.3spg and FGP: 69.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jarrius Jackson (188-G-85) of Prima Veroli - 29 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Luigi Dordei (202-F-81) of Snaidero UD - 19 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Tuukka Kotti (205-F/C-81) of N.Ferrara - 20 points and 9 rebounds
7. Michele Maggioli (212-C-77) of Fileni BPA - 20 points and 5 rebounds
8. Demian Filloy (198-F-82) of Immobiliare SR - 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Jarvis Varnado (206-F-88) of Tuscany PT - 17 points and 5 rebounds
10. Patrick Baldassarre (200-F-86) of Sunrise Scafati - 16 points and 7 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)

Italian SerieA round 13 best performance: James White - by Eurobasket News
American guard James White (198-G-84, agency: Court Side) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Dinamo Sassari, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 19 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Cimberio VA (#12, 6-7) 91-84. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Dinamo Sassari is placed at 13th position in Italian SerieA. Dinamo Sassari is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 5-8 record. White turned to be Dinamo Sassari's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Cincinnati star has very solid stats this year. White is league's best scorer averaging so far 19.8ppg. White is in league's top in and averages impressive 2.6spg and 63.2% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American Sharrod Ford (206-F/C-82, agency: Pro One Sports) of Sutor Montegranaro. Ford had a very good evening with a double-double of 13 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Fabi Shoes lost that game 73-88 to slightly higher-ranked Lottomatica (6-7). This loss caused Fabi Shoes to drop to 10th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-7 record. Ford is a newcomer at Fabi Shoes, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.0ppg (#2). He also registered 10.4 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was Bosnia and Herzegovina forward Nihad Dedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) of Lottomatica Virtus Roma (#8). Dedovic scored 18 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Lottomatica, leading his team to a 88-73 easy win against Fabi Shoes (6-7). The chances of Lottomatica ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 7 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Dedovic could help Lottomatica to bring them higher in the standings. Dedovic has a very solid season. In 13 games in Italy he scored 14.5ppg. He also has 2.7spg and FGP: 70.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Drake Diener (196-G-81) of Banca Tercas - 28 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Oleksiy Pecherov (212-C-85) of Armani MI - 21 points and 14 rebounds
6. Eric Williams (206-C-84) of Pepsi Caserta - 19 points and 8 rebounds
7. Jumaine Jones (201-F-79) of Pepsi Caserta - 18 points and 9 rebounds
8. Donatas Motiejunas (213-C-90) of Benetton TV - 12 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83) of Vanoli CR - 21 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Ali Traore (207-C-85) of Lottomatica - 13 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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LATVIA

Bojan Bakic on his way to VEF Riga - by Emiliano
Bojan Bakic

LEBANON

El Khatib's 42-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
32-year old forward Fadi El Khatib (199-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Champville and receives a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
He had the game-high 42 points adding six rebounds and two assists for Champville in his team's victory, helping them to beat Moutahed (#3, 9-6) 84-74. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Champville to consolidate first place in the Lebanese league. Champville has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 14-1. El Khatib turned to be Champville's top player in his first season with the team. El Khatib has impressive league stats. He is league's best scorer averaging so far 29.7ppg. El Khatib is in league's top in assists (8th best: 3.6apg) and averages solid 58.4% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was William Byrd (201-G/F-85) of Hoops Club. He is American swingman in his first season at Hoops. In the last game Byrd recorded impressive double-double of 21 points and 18 rebounds. Bad luck as Hoops lost that game 68-88 to the higher-ranked Al Riyadi (#2, 12-3). This loss caused Hoops to drop to 7th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 5-10 record. Byrd is a newcomer at Hoops and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.4ppg (#7). He also registered 11.6 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Nathanel Johnson (199-F-77) of league's second-best Al Riyadi. Johnson scored 28 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Al Riyadi, leading his team to a 88-68 easy win against the lower-ranked Hoops (#7, 5-10). Al Riyadi is closer and closer to the top of the standings. They will still need more victories. But 12-3 record is not that bad... Johnson has a great season in Lebanon. After only 4 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 2.5apg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80) of Sagesse - 21 points and 16 rebounds
5. Darnell Cox (211-C-85) of Champville - 16 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Ghaleb Rida (190-G-81) of Sagesse - 22 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists
7. Marc Dawson (206-F/C-83) of Chabab - 22 points and 14 rebounds
8. Loren Woods (218-C-78) of Al Riyadi - 11 points, 17 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Lavell Payne (203-F-85) of Moutahed - 15 points and 14 rebounds
10. Rony Fahed (186-G-81) of Sagesse - 21 points, 6 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)

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LITHUANIA

Dnipro Azot officially adds Gytis Sirutavicius - by Deividas Valiunas
As expected, Gytis Sirutavicius

(195-F-83) officially became a member of SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk. He Arrives from BC Mures Targu-Mures, where he started this season. Sirutavicius joined BC Mures Targu-Mures last summer from the Wamsler SE Salgotarjan. He appeared 12 times in Romania league averaging 9 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.3 assists. In Balkan league he added 9.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 1 apg. Last season with Wamsler SE Salgotarjan he collected 17.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2.6 apg in 16 Hungary league games.

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NAIA

Erves doubles up to lead Gold Rush past Concordia - by Emiliano
Sophomore Denzell Erves (6'7''-F) produced his first collegiate double-double -- career highs of 16 points and 11 rebounds -- to lead NAIA No. 9 Xavier (LA) in a 92-61 men's basketball victory against Concordia (Ala.) on Thursday.
The Gold Rush (14-1), playing for the first time since a 61-58 loss to Dakota Wesleyan in last week's Miami Gardens (Fla.) Classic, had six players score in double figures. Chris Iles had 15 points, Wanto Joseph a season-high 14, Jamaan Kenner and Devin Andrew 12 apiece and Michael Harvey 10.
Wendall Maye scored 17 points and Gabriel Ball 12 for Concordia (2-12), which won at home against Spring Hill on Wednesday.
Xavier got 12 points from Iles and 10 from Erves en route to a 52-31 halftime lead. The final margin was the largest of the game.
Cordell Hadnot also grabbed 11 rebounds for the Gold Rush. Xavier outrebounded the Hornets 52-28 and outshot them 49 to 37 percent from the floor. Xavier made 24-of-35 free throws, and Concordia made 5-of-8.
Iles had six assists and Joseph five, and Joseph had three steals in his first start of the season. Kenner made four of Xavier's season-high-tying eight 3-pointers.
Xavier extended its home win streak to 12 games and won for the 18th time in its last 20 games overall. The Gold Rush will travel to Jackson, Miss., for a 6 p.m. Saturday game against Belhaven, then return to home to play William Carey at 7:30 p.m. Monday.

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NBA

Thursday: Thunder and Kings celebrate - by Eurobasket News
Dallas M. - Oklah.City T. 95-99
The Mavericks couldn't make up for top scorer Dirk Nowitzki's absence again Thursday night, falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder 99-95. Dallas had won the teams' two earlier matchups in Oklahoma City, but this time, without Nowitzki and No. 3 scorer Caron Butler, the Mavericks couldn't keep up. Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 28 points for the Thunder, Russell Westbrook (6'3''-G-88, college: UCLA) had 15 points and nine assists, and Jeff Green had 16 points and nine rebounds. Shawn Marion had a season-high 25 points for the Mavericks, who were without Nowitzki for a career-high sixth straight game with a sprained right knee which he injured in the teams' second meeting Dec. 27. Butler is out for the season with a torn tendon in his right knee. Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) matched a season high with 18 rebounds. Jason Terry had 19 points for Dallas, 2-4 during Nowitzki's absence. Nowitzki is day-to-day and there was speculation that he might try to play Thursday. The nine-time All-Star, averaging 24.1 points, has been shooting at practices. Oklahoma City had a 73-70 advantage heading into the fourth quarter, and Dallas was unable to get closer than four points the rest of the way. *Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Sacramento K. - Denver N. 122-102
Tyreke Evans (6'6''-G-89, college: Memphis) had 27 points and a season-high 12 assists to help the Sacramento Kings rout the Denver Nuggets 122-102 on Thursday night. The Kings had a 23-2 run midway through the second half to build a 21-point lead in their highest-scoring game of the season. They shot 56 percent and gave coach Paul Westphal his 300th career victory. DeMarcus Cousins (6'11''-F-90, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) scored 20 points, Beno Udrih (6'5''-G-82) had 17, Carl Landry 14 and Omri Casspi 13 for the Kings. Carmelo Anthony had 26 points for Denver. The Nuggets, coming off a 106-93 road loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night, committed 23 turnovers. Nene added 17 points for Denver, Chauncey Billips had 16 and Al Harrington 15. Evans, the NBA rookie of the year last season, penetrated on drives to the basket and made 11 of 18 shots, hit all five free throws and added five rebounds. After ending the third quarter on a 12-2 run, the Kings scored the first 11 points of the fourth. A fast-break dunk by Casspi gave Sacramento a 102-81 lead at the 8:50 mark. After squandering their entire 14-point halftime lead and allowing Denver to tie it, the Kings ran off 12 straight points late in the third quarter. Udrih scored eight points and Evans had six in the third to give the Kings a 91-81 lead. Trailing by 14 points at the half, the Nuggets got going in the third quarter behind Anthony. After a subpar first half, Anthony made all five shots and scored 12 points, including a jumper to tie it at 79. *Courtesy of www.csncalifornia.com

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NCAA1

Stanford 55, Arizona St. 41 - by Milord Nikolic
Stanfor recorded a quality win on road. After squandering a double-digit lead in the first half, Stanford put the game away midway through the second half. Leading 30-27, Owens kickstarted a game-clinching 9-2 run with a jumper and capped it with a pair of free throws as Stanford won its third straight game. Josh Owens had 15 points and 11 rebounds. Jarrett Mann was the only other Stanford player to score in double digits. Aside from Owens, the rest of the Cardinal starting five combined to shoot just 8-for-29 on the night.

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ROMANIA

Nick Covington is back to Romania! - by Tamas Deri
Nicholas Covington (188-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Oklahoma City) just signed with BC Mures and will be back to Romania in the next days. The 25 years old, 188 cm tall guard is a well known player in the country as he started this season with Timisoara. Covington played 14 games for the team and averaged 14.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 steals per game. Last season he played for Kalev Tallin in Estonia. He was the 4th best scorer with 16.4 points and added also 3.6 rebounds, 2.2 steals and 1.9 assists per game. He had also 10 games in the Balkan League averaging 16.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.4apg, 2.4spg, FGP: 37.6%, 3PT: 41.0%, FT: 90.9%.
'I am very happy, that Nick decided to come back to Romania and play for our team. He knows our league very well as he played already 14 games with Timisoara and i am sure, that he will be able to help our team to reach our goals in this season' - head coach Csaba Deri .

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SAUDI ARABIA

Allen with Al Ahli - by Ali Ahmed
Allen Byron (201-C-81, college: Northwestern St.) signed with Al Ahli Jeddah for the rest of the season.

Outlook:
Byron possesses a rare blend of power, agility, quickness and athleticism. Relentless rebounder that knows how to position himself. Operates very effectively in the low post and finishes around the basket with authority. Runs the floor very well for a player his size. When he has the ball in the low post, he is practically an immovable force. His excellent footwork allows to better defend smaller, quicker players. Excellent outlet passer and adept at blocking and altering shots. Great passer for a big man with point guard-like vision. Consummate team player that is very coachable and committed to winning

Awards/Achievements:
Southland Conf. Regular Season Champion -05, 06
Southland Conf. Tournament Finalist -05
All-Southland Conf. Honorable Mention -05, 06
Southland Conf. Tournament Winner -06
IBL Regular Season Champion -08
IBL Finalist -08
Taiwanese All-Star Game -09
Taiwanese SBL Champion -09
Asia-Basket.com All-Taiwanese SBL Center of the Year -09
Asia-Basket.com All-Taiwanese SBL Import Player of the Year -09
Asia-Basket.com All-Taiwanese SBL 1st Team -09
Taiwanese SBL Regular Season Champion -09
Taiwanese SBL Regular Season Runner-Up -10
Taiwanese SBL Finalist -10

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SERBIA

Darko Russo leaves Iraklis - by Zoran Popovic
After lost game against AEK Serbian coach Darko Russo (agency: Beo Basket ) decides to resign and leave position of head coach Iraklis Thessaloniki. Two months ago Russo replaced on the bench Kostas Pilafidis. During the career Darko Russo (agency: Beo Basket ) was head coach of Beobanka 1995-2000, Partizan 2000-2001, Hemofarm Vrsac 2001, Buducnost Podgorica 2001, Apollon Patras 2002-2006, Maroussi Athens 2006-2007 and Igokea Aleksandrovac 2008-2009. Darko Russo (agency: Beo Basket ) was head coach of Yugoslavian U20 National team and assistant coach of Yugoslavian National team in period 1996-2000.

Partizan negotiate with Milos Vujanic - by Zoran Popovic
Serbian Champion is close to hire former player Milos Vujanic

(192-G-80). According the Serbian Sports news, Vujanic will join Serbian Champion after January 15 and he will be ready for game against Real Madrid. Milos Vujanic played for Partizan 7 years ago and in season 2002-2003 he was one of top scorers in Euroleague with average 25.5 points per game. During the career Vujanic played for Zvezda Ruma, Crvena Zvezda, Fortitudo Bologna, Barcelona, Panathinaikos Athens, Dynamo Moscow, Efes Pilsen Istanbul, C.B. Murcia and Panionios. Vujanic was drafted by New York Knicks as 36 pick. Milos Vujanic was member of Yugoslavian and Serbian National team.

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SLOVENIA

Fon's 3-pointer and Djapa's free throws give Slovan win - by Zeljko Zule
Geoplin Slovan extended its winning streak to five games with an 85-84 victory over Sentjur, who has now lost four of its past five games, in the opening match of Telemach League Week 11. Miha Fon (194-G-84) drilled a crucial 3-pointer that gave Slovan 79-76 lead with just 15 seconds remaining and finished with 12 points. Dalibor Djapa scored 23 points and made all eight free throws in the final period, Jaka Blazic added 14 points and Marko Pajic had 10 points and 8 rebounds. Dwayne Harmason posted 26 points for Sentjur, Ivan Drzic netted 22 points including four 3-pointers and Teo Simovic earned his third straight double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

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SOUTH KOREA

South Korean KBL round 26 best performance: Laurence Ekperigin - by Eurobasket News
American forward Laurence Ekperigin (201-F) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Mobis Phoebus, receiving a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
The -year old player had a double-double of 22 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Samsung Th. (#4, 16-12) 88-80. Mobis Phoebus maintains the 10th position in South Korean KBL. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked at the very bottom. They already lost 20 games and recorded just eight victories. Ekperigin turned to be Mobis Phoebus' top player in his first season with the team. Former Le Moyne College star has very solid stats this year. Ekperigin is in league's top in rebounds (9th best: 8.3rpg) and averages impressive 1.1bpg and 59.0% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 30-year old American Aaron Haynes (201-F-81) of Seoul Samsung Thunders. Haynes had a very good evening with a double-double of 29 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Seoul Samsung Thunders lost that game 80-88 to the lower-ranked Mobis Phoebus (#10, 8-20). Seoul Samsung Thunders managed to keep the same 4th spot in the standings. His team's 16-12 record is not bad at all. Haynes is a newcomer at Seoul Samsung Thunders, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 26.3ppg (#1). His other stats are also decent: 8.4rpg and 3.2apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Herbert Hill (203-F-84) of league's second-best Inchon ET Land Elephants. Hill scored 20 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Hill's great performance Elephants lost 65-74 to #3 ranked Sonic Boom KT. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing Elephants needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 20 victories and 8 lost games. Hill has a great season in South Korea. After 27 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.0ppg (8th best) and rebounds with 8.9rpg (6th best). He also has 2.5bpg and FGP: 71.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Joo-Sung Kim (205-C-79) of Dongbu Promy - 14 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists
5. Seung-Jin Ha (222-C-85) of KCC Egis - 24 points and 6 rebounds
6. Ho-Young Yoon (198-F-84) of Dongbu Promy - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. T.J. Cummings (204-F-81) of LG Sakers - 19 points and 10 rebounds
8. Sang-Oh Park (196-F-81) of Sonic Boom KT - 20 points and 6 rebounds
9. Eric Sandrin (206-F/C-78) of Samsung Th. - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Hyun-Joong Kim (178-G-81) of LG Sakers - 24 points and 3 assists

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

KBL Round 27: Dongbu Promy loses #1 position - by Eurobasket News
Round 27 in KBL means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Busan where host Sonic Boom KT (20-9) beat league's leader Dongbu Promy (20-9) 71-63 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Dongbu Promy. It was a key game for the second position in the league. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Dongbu Promy helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American center Jasper Johnson (201-83, college: Delta St.) who had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds. Guard Dong-Hyun Cho (188-76) chipped in 17 points and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international center Joo-Sung Kim (205-79) who recorded 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Dongbu Promy's coach Dong Hae Kang rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Sonic Boom KT moved-up to second place, which they share with defeated Dongbu Promy. Dongbu Promy will play next round against Daegu Orions trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Sonic Boom KT will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked SK Knights in Seoul.
Tenth-ranked Mobis Phoebus (8-21) made lots of trouble for fifth ranked KCC Egis (15-14) in Jeonju. KCC Egis managed to secure only three-point victory 76-73. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mobis Phoebus. It was a good game for international center Seung-Jin Ha (222-85) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 27 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocks. Chris Daniels contributed with 14 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Jong-Cheon Park (192-79) answered with 24 points and 6 rebounds for Mobis Phoebus. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. KCC Egis has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 15-14 record. Defending champion Mobis Phoebus stay at the bottom position with 21 games lost. They share it with Anyang KGC. KCC Egis will play against Anyang KGC (#9) on the road in the next round. Mobis Phoebus will play against Samsung Thunders in Seoul and hope to get back on the winning track.
The game in Daegu was quite interesting. Seventh ranked LG Sakers (13-16) played at the court of 8th ranked Daegu Orions (9-20). LG Sakers defeated Daegu Orions 79-64 on Friday. It was a great evening for Greg Stevenson who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists. The best for the losing side was Il-Young Heo with 15 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. LG Sakers maintains seventh place with 13-16 record. Daegu Orions at the other side keep the eighth position with 20 games lost. LG Sakers will meet at home Anyang KGC (#9) in the next round. Daegu Orions will play against the league's second-placed Dongbu Promy where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.

In the last game of round 27 Anyang KGC was defeated by Samsung Th. in Seoul 95-88.

Daegu Orions - LG Sakers 64-79

The game in Daegu was quite interesting. Seventh ranked LG Sakers (13-16) played at the court of 8th ranked Daegu Orions (9-20). LG Sakers defeated Daegu Orions 79-64 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by LG Sakers. Daegu Orions managed to win third quarter 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LG Sakers dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Daegu Orions' 44. It was a great evening for naturalized American forward Greg Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists. Forward Seung-Ho Ki (194-85) helped adding 18 points. Five LG Sakers players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was forward Il-Young Heo (198-85) with 15 points and 6 rebounds and the former international forward Dong Jun Lee (200-80) scored 14 points. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. LG Sakers maintains seventh place with 13-16 record. Daegu Orions at the other side keep the eighth position with 20 games lost. LG Sakers will meet at home Anyang KGC (#9) in the next round. Daegu Orions will play against the league's second-placed Dongbu Promy where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
LG Sakers: G.Stevenson 20+14reb+6ast, S.Ki 18+4reb+1ast, D.Kang 13+1reb+1ast, C.Alexander 11+8reb, H.Byun 10+1reb+1ast, S.Cho 4
Daegu Orions: I.Heo 15+6reb, J.Jung 14+2ast, D.Jun Lee 14+3reb+1ast, J.Park 4+2reb+1ast, K.Kim 4, O.George 4+4reb+1ast

Samsung Th. - Anyang KGC 95-88

There was no surprise in Seoul where 9th ranked Anyang KGC (8-21) was defeated by fourth ranked Samsung Thunders (17-12) 95-88 on Thursday. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Samsung Thunders made 30-of-39 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game, while Anyang KGC only scored thirteen points from the stripe. Samsung Thunders outrebounded Anyang KGC 30-16 including 20 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for international guard Jung-Suk Lee (184-82) who led his team to a victory scoring 26 points and 4 assists (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field). American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) helped adding 19 points and 10 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American center David Simon (207-82, college: IPFW) with 29 points (on 12-of-14 shooting from the field) and international guard Chan-Hee Park (191-87) scored 16 points and 6 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Anyang KGC's coach let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Samsung Thunders maintains fourth place with 17-12 record. Anyang KGC lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 21 games lost. They share it with Mobis Phoebus. Samsung Thunders will meet at home bottom-ranked Mobis Phoebus (#10) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Anyang KGC will play against LG Sakers in Changwon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Samsung Th.: J.Lee 26+4reb+4ast, D.Kim 21+2reb+5ast, A.Haynes 19+10reb, H.Kang 13+2reb+4ast, N.Dixon 9+3reb, J.Cha 7+8reb+1ast
Anyang KGC: D.Simon 29+4reb, C.Park 16+2reb+6ast, J.Lee 15+3reb+4ast, B.Kim 13+1reb+1ast, S.Kim 5+1reb+1ast, S.Park 5+3ast

KCC Egis - Mobis Phoebus 76-73 OT

Tenth-ranked Mobis Phoebus (8-21) made lots of trouble for fifth ranked KCC Egis (15-14) in Jeonju. KCC Egis managed to secure only three-point victory 76-73. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mobis Phoebus. Mobis Phoebus were ahead by 8 points after three quarters before a 17-9 charge of KCC Egis, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 11-8. Mobis Phoebus were plagued by 31 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for international center Seung-Jin Ha (222-85) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 27 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocks. American center Chris Daniels (211-84) contributed with 14 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Jong-Cheon Park (192-79) answered with 24 points and 6 rebounds and the former international guard Dong-Geun Yang (182-81) added 23 points in the effort for Mobis Phoebus. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. KCC Egis has a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 15-14 record. Defending champion Mobis Phoebus stay at the bottom position with 21 games lost. They share it with Anyang KGC. KCC Egis will play against Anyang KGC (#9) on the road in the next round. Mobis Phoebus will play against Samsung Thunders in Seoul and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
KCC Egis: S.Ha 27+15reb, C.Daniels 14+8reb, B.Kang 13+3reb, J.Merrill 6+5reb+3ast, B.Yoo 5+3reb+1ast, T.Chon 5+2reb+6ast
Mobis Phoebus: J.Park 24+6reb, D.Yang 23+3reb+3ast, L.Ekperigin 10+9reb+2ast, J.Ryu 6+1reb, C.Song 3+2reb+1ast, K.No 3+3reb+1ast

Sonic Boom KT - Dongbu Promy 71-63

Round 27 in KBL means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Busan where host Sonic Boom KT (20-9) beat league's leader Dongbu Promy (20-9) 71-63 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Dongbu Promy. It was a key game for the second position in the league. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Dongbu Promy helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American center Jasper Johnson (201-83, college: Delta St.) who had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds. Guard Dong-Hyun Cho (188-76) chipped in 17 points and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international center Joo-Sung Kim (205-79) who recorded 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Jin-Won Hwang (189-78) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Dongbu Promy's coach Dong Hae Kang rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Sonic Boom KT moved-up to second place, which they share with defeated Dongbu Promy. Dongbu Promy will play next round against Daegu Orions trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Sonic Boom KT will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked SK Knights in Seoul.
Top scorers:
Sonic Boom KT: J.Johnson 25+12reb+2ast, D.Cho 17+2reb+4ast, S.Park 9+9reb+2ast, Y.Song 7+3reb+1ast, S.Cho 5+2reb+3ast, W.Yaung 4+3reb+3ast
Dongbu Promy: J.Hwang 14+5reb+2ast, J.Kim 13+7reb+4ast, J.Wook Ahn 9+3ast, H.Yoon 9+5reb+4ast, V.Thomas 5+3reb+1ast, R.Benson 5+6reb+1ast

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SWEDEN

Swedish U18 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Starting five

Borg

Person

Andersson

Erhardt

Asplund

Jacob Magnusson

185-G-94

Tobias Borg

182-G-93

Sodertalje Sweden

Niklas Larsson

196-G/F-94

Solna

Jonathan Person

190-G-93

CS Bologna Italy

Joacim Edlund

195-F-93

Fredrik Andersson

196-G/F-93

Boras

Markus Williams

198-F-93

Sanda

Adnan Kadrispahic

199-F-94

Jesper Eliasson

199-F-94

Hannes Erhardt

203-F/C-94

Sebastian Schultser

201-F/C-94

William Asplund

203-C-93

Olle Lunden

Head Coach

David Leman

Assistant

Sanda

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TANZANIA

Savio start title defence with victory over Pazi - by Carlos Pereira
Oliver Albert
The Citizen Correspondent

Dar es Salaam. The defending champions of the Dar es Salaams RBA League, Savio, got their title defence off to a flying start on Sunday after shoving off Pazi opposition to record a 49-32 win at the National Indoor Stadium.
Savio, who won a treble last season, embarked on the game on a low tempo with their inspirational pointer George Tarimo looking terribly out of sorts.
Tarimo, renowned for burying the baskets, failed to convert three clear-cut chances and struggled to clear rebounds severally.
Both sides finished the first quarter tied at 10-10.
The reigning champions returned into the second quarter strongly with rookie Joas Allen displaying stupendous skills that helped his team take a 19-15 lead.

Having enjoyed a lions share of possession in the second quarter, Savio lost steam in the third quarter, thus allowing Pazi to dictate the pace.
However, despite taking the game to the flamboyant champions, Pazis inept finishing cost them dearly.
Savio guard Jije Makani was the man to lavish all praise on after labouring relentlessly to clear 10 rebounds, which kept his team leading 32-24.

Determined to level the matter in the final quarter, Pazi poured forward deftly, but they only managed to add eight points while their opponents buried 17 to wrap up the victory.
It was a good start to the season, we started the game on a low note, but we managed to reorganise ourselves to post the victory, Savios ace player Mohamed Yusuf said ecstatically.
He added: We are happy that our rookies coped with the pace of the RBA League and I hope that they will get even better with time.

The league will swing back into action on Saturday with ABC facing off Airwing. On the same day, womens teams, Vijana Queens will battle it out against Cargo ladies while Police Dar will entertain CMTU.

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TURKEY

Hard times for Bornova - by Sinan Can
BORNOVA Belediyespor probably facing the hardest days ever in the league. The issue is not only losing four games in a row, Izmir team also fighting against injuries and leavings due to mack of performance. The nightmare of Bornova started with injury of tems star forward Tyler Smith (201-F-86, college: Tennessee) at Galatasaray Cafe Crown game. Smith, who is averaging 18.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists so far, had an injury which would keep him out of action for 4 weeks. Efes Pilsen, Mersin BSB and Turk Telekom defeats followed this as Bornova looked like a plane without wings with the loss of Tyler Smith. Club decided to part ways with American center Torin Francis

(210-F-83, college: Notre Dame) who has been playing below his capacity, and the second shocking news came from rookie guard Michael Roll (196-G-87, college: UCLA) . Roll had a cyst very close to his throat which has been growing up and immediately flied back to USA to see his doctor. So without Smith, Francis and Roll, Bornova who has Tomas Nagys

(209-F/C-80, college: Clemson) as their only foreigner in the roster will face top-flight Banvit on the away game this sunday. If Izmir team would not take an action in transfer market, last years big success of Play-Off will fly away so the relegation danger will come closer.

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UKRAINE

Bojan Bakic on his way to VEF Riga - by Emiliano
Bojan Bakic

(197-G-83, agency: Alti Sport) best player of Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih, which is currently on 3rd spot in Ukrainian league is moving to VEF Riga. Due to the financial problems of Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih player had to move. Bojan Bakic was averaging 14.5ppg 3.6rpg 1.6apg in Ukraine.
At the end of the season 2008/09, while he was with Energa Czarni Slupsk he was selected to the Eurobasket.com Polish League All-Bosmans Team.
Last season with Metalac he averaged 12.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 42.6%, 3PT: 36.2%, FT: 79.4% in 14 games.

Wilson number one in Ukraine for round 26 - by Eurobasket News
American forward Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Budivelnyk Kyiv, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
The 31-year old player was the main contributor (23 points, six rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to crush Halychyna (#11, 7-17) with 19-point margin 73-54. It allowed Budivelnyk to consolidate first place in the Ukrainian Superleague. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Budivelnyk has a very solid 19-5 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Wilson had a remarkable 77.8% from 2-point range. He turned to be Budivelnyk's top player in his first season with the team. Lamayne Wilson averages this season 13.2ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old American Christian Burns (203-F-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) of Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye. Burns had a very good evening with 26 points and 8 rebounds. Of course he lead Ferro-ZNTU to another comfortable win 90-75 over slightly lower-ranked Mykolaiv (#8, 11-13) being unquestionably team leader. This victory allowed Ferro-ZNTU to move up to 7th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 12-12 record is not bad and everything may still change. Burns is a newcomer at Ferro-ZNTU, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.3ppg (#2). He also registered 9.0 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American center Eric Coleman (200-C-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) of Hoverla Ivano-Frankivsk (#4). Coleman scored 17 points and passed five assists. He was a key player of Hoverla, leading his team to a 79-77 win against #1 ranked Budivelnyk in a game of the week. Hoverla needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 9 lost games. Coleman has a very solid season. In 23 games in Ukraine he scored 12.5ppg. He also has 5.6rpg and FGP: 58.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Andrii Kalnichenko (200-G-86) of Khimik - 13 points and 10 rebounds
5. Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) of Hoverla - 26 points
6. Pavel Revzin (194-G-83) of Halychyna - 20 points and 4 rebounds
7. Viacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87) of BC Donetsk - 13 points and 7 rebounds
8. Travis Garrison (203-F-84) of Khimik - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Dante Swanson (178-G-81) of Hoverla - 15 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) of Khimik - 16 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists

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

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UNITED KINGDOM

BBL Team Of The Week - Week 15 - by Paul Nilsen
We have to thank a certain individual player this week for helping us to finish 2010 in real style by posting the highest recorded performance valuation for our BBL Team Of The Week! This former league MVP is in good company and is joined by the Molten Player Of The Month for December plus a BBL rookie who only joined his new team recently and yet grabs a place in our starting five.

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

Yes, playmaker Trey Moore (192-G-75, college: Mississippi St.) leads the way after a simply astonishing performance in the massacre of One Health Sharks Sheffield where he finished one rebound short of a sensational triple-double. Not surprisingly his performance valuation was a whopping 46 thanks to a stellar line of 37 points, 11 assists and 9 rebounds. Not only that, but Moore secures successive appearances and makes the BBL Team Of The Week for the sixth time this season as he opens up some daylight between himself and the rest of the challengers still stuck on 4 appearances or less. Moore shows absolutely no sign of slowing down and is definitely one of the form players heading into this new calendar year.

Cody Toppert (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

After the early season question marks in terms of consistency and the ability to deliver, Toppert is really finding his groove of late and underlining his class as a deadly shooter. It was raining three-pointers on Guildford Heat thanks to the shooter who racked up 27 perimeter points after converting a staggering 9 times from downtown on his way to a superb game and season high 41 points. While Marks and Zabas have been getting a lot of praise for their introduction and role in the upturn of Raiders fortunes, the contribution of Toppert who has made the BBL Team Of The Week previously, shouldnt be overlooked.

Chez Marks (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

There is no stopping the prolific Marks who was crowned Molten Player Of The Month For December in recognition of his devastating form of late. He has certainly had the hot-hand all month and done the job with real efficiency which is the most impressive aspect as he makes the line-up for the third time in the last four weeks. He enjoyed a terrific climax to the calendar year with another 25 points against Guildford Heat, this time going 12 of 14 inside as he continued to find his way to the hoop and make most of his shots. His name will certainly be first on the scouting report for opposing coaches in coming weeks as they look to limit the firepower of the free-scoring Raiders.

Charles Smith (Newcastle Eagles)

Just like his team-mate and fellow veteran Trey Moore (192-G-75, college: Mississippi St.), Smith is rolling back the years and showing he too is a golden-oldie with successive appearances in our fabulous five. He finished last year with a real flourish and opened up 2011 in a similar vein with 26 points in the rout of One Health Sharks Sheffield a club he has always loved putting to the sword and for whom he has always reserved his most swashbuckling performances. Smith was on fire from outside against the Sharks as he buried seven triples.

Michael Kingma (Glasgow Rocks)

The Rocks have really picked up during November and December to get their bid for silverware on track and much of that has coincided with the arrival of center Kingma who has helped to give them one of the biggest and most powerful frontcourts in the league. As an added bonus, the big man is now settling into Glasgow really well and that was highlighted by a great performance against Worcester Wolves as the Rocks grabbed the last BBL win of 2010. Kingma just missed out on a double-double after claiming 21 points of an excellent 10 of 11 floor shooting and pulling down 9 rebounds.

BBL Team Of The Week

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

Cody Toppert (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

Chez Marks (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

Charles Smith (Newcastle Eagles)

Michael Kingma (Glasgow Rocks)

Off The Bench

Anthony Rowe (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders), Otis Polk (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders), Tafari Toney (Mersey Tigers) Mike Martin (Guildford Heat, Shaun Durant (Worthing Thunder), David Watts (Worcester Wolves)

Molten Coach Of The Month December Is Love - by Paul Nilsen
For the second successive month, a BBL rookie coach wins the award with the December accolade being handed to UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders player turned play-caller Gavin Love

Having endured a tough initiation to his fledgling coaching career during the early part of the season, Love has managed to oversee some key changes to personnel to ensure the Raiders are now climbing up the BBL Championship.

They have manoeuvred their way into the play-off spots and are now within touching distance of a bunch of teams challenging for the top four.

Love won three of his four games during December and hence fans in the South-West are now looking with renewed optimism at the rest of the season although the coach will know he still has work to do since his team are yet to realise their potential on the road.

With offence having previously been something of an issue, his team have really exploded offensively of late and looked really slick, especially at the Pavilions where they have still only lost one game all season.

Raiders opened up the month with a 35 point demolition of Worthing Thunder and after going down in a tight affair at Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders, they then managed to emerge victorious in a BBL overtime classic against Worcester Wolves by 115-11.

They then wrapped up a roller-coaster calendar year in style and on a real high with a third win during December courtesy of more prolific offence to secure a festive 116-106 success against Guildford Heat.

Molten Player Of The Month For December Is Marks - by Paul Nilsen
Fans of UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have cause for a double celebration after Chez Marks

(191-G-80, college: Morehead St.) was crowned Molten Player Of The Month For December hot on the heels of the coaching award being handed to Gavin Love the man who brought him to the Pavilions to help provide some additional firepower.

In terms of December at least, its proven to be a case of mission accomplished in that respect with Marks central to the free-scoring performances by the Raiders.

Marks has certainly had the hot-hand all month and done the job with real efficiency which is the most impressive aspect. He averaged 24.25 points per game and he led the league in terms of his performance ranking. This was further highlighted by his appearance in three of the last four BBL Team Of The Week line-ups during weeks 12, 13 and 15.

Typical of his performances during the month was his superb display against Worcester Wolves in a thrilling overtime shoot-out when he not only poured in 29 points but also did it with 9 of 10 shooting inside as well as 5 assists.

That kind of efficient production was the lasting impression he left on a terrific climax to the calendar year as he wrapped up with another 25 points against Guildford Heat, this time going 12 of 14 inside as he continued to find his way to the hoop and make his shots.

Having been drafted in after the start of the season along with playmaker Evaldas Zabas who has also impressed, Raiders fans will be hoping Marks can continue his rich vein of form to help can fire their team to success in 2011.

Gumbs A Raider - by Paul Nilsen
The UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders have announced the signing of Jerome Gumbs. He comes to the Raiders with both a US Virgin Islands and a British passport and played last year with the Everton Tigers. The 63guard set the Pavilions alight on a visit to the Pavilions last season when he scored 30 points and had 7 rebounds.

Gumbs has initially signed a week to week contract with the Raiders. Chairman Bob Widdecombe explained, Theres a lot of interest in Jerome from teams in Venezuela and the Philippines in particular, where he stands to make a substantially higher salary than he would make here in the BBL. These leagues dont start for a while though, so he has signed with us on a week to week basis. Once he gets here, he might decide that he wants to stay for the rest of the season, which obviously would be great. But in the meantime, Coach Love will continue looking for a replacement. The situation needs to be sorted out by the end of February as thats the BBL signing deadline, and we dont want to be left without a player for the crucial run in and post season playoffs.

Gumbs is an athletic player who can play point guard, shooting guard or small forward. He was the Tigers second leading scorer last season in the BBL, but crucially, he is a fantastic defender as well, able to match up with the oppositions best player and shut them down.

Head Coach Gavin Love was delighted to have secured Gumbs signature. Jerome is an experienced player with a winning attitude who will be able to come in and play multiple positions and a give us a defensive presence and a scoring punch! I have signed him on a week to week deal and I hope to keep him as long as I can but will continue to look for an addition player to strengthen our squad.

With Tigers last season, Gumbs averaged 16 points on 60% shooting, and 5 rebounds per game. Over the summer he represented the US Virgin Islands in a series of international games, before signing with Lobos Durango of Mexicos LNBP League, where he played 7 games, averaging 15 points and 3.5 rebounds with a 63% shooting percentage.

Jerome Gumbs said 'From everything I have been told about Plymouth, theyre a top level organization in the BBL. I know there have been big changes there this season but the team is still in great position for the post season. I hope I can come into the team and add that little extra to compete with the top 4 and keep the level of excitement the fans of Plymouth have been used to this season!'

Jets Swoop For Smith - by Paul Nilsen
The Cheshire Jets have released big man Jason Killeen after a short pre Christmas spell at the club to be replaced by American centre Steve Smith (211-C-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Creighton). The 25 year old who hails from Sioux Falls in South Dakota, jetted into Chester ready for his debut at this weekends home game against Milton Keynes Lions.

Smith is signed up for the next six weeks until the return of Jets talisman Matt Schneck who was banned for three months by UKAD for unknowingly ingesting a banned supplement.

The 6ft 11 centre started all 32 games during the 2009/10 season at the University of South Dakota averaging 7.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 1.5 assists in 24 minutes per game. Smith reached double figures in six games, including topping the 20-point mark twice finishing second on the college team with 143 total rebounds.

Coach Smith said;

Im happy that we managed to bring Steve in he brings with him a good offensive and defensive game as his stats show. Steve has come straight out of University and has the hunger to succeed but also the right attitude to be a great team player. We needed someone to come in to replace Matt until he returns in February and I believe Steve is the right player to help keep us on track

Steve joins the rest of the Cheshire Jets on Sunday the 9th of January at the Northgate Arena when they take on Milton Keynes Lions for their first game of 2011. The Cheshire Jets currently sit second in the BBL League table behind local North West rivals Mersey Tigers.

BBL Weekend Preview: Raiders To Show Teeth With Gumbs - by Paul Nilsen
If there is one team heading into the New Year on a roll then surely it is UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders after they not only scooped a Molten Monthly double with coaching and playing awards for December being handed to coach Gavin Love and Chez Marks but then followed that up with the signing of former Tigers man Jerome Gumbs.

However, none of that will matter if they dont get at least one or preferably two wins from their weekend double header at Worthing Thunder and at home to Mersey Tigers.

Their form on the road has been their achilles heel so far and with the addition of Gumbs, red-hot form of Marks, plus Evaldas Zabas no doubt motivated to do well against his former club, they will fancy their chances on the South Coast.

Equally Thunder will be hoping to capitalise on the poor away form of Raiders as they search for a better 2011 having won only one BBL Championship game all season.

Meanwhile the game against Mersey Tigers at the Pavilions on Sunday is the perfect test for Raiders to assess just how much they have improved.

Prestige Homes MK Lions can probably expect a big backlash from Tigers when they travel to the North-West on Saturday night since Mike New and his team inflicted the only league loss to date on the title favourites and that is a fact that wont be lost on Tony Garbelotto and his players.

Its been a difficult period for the Lions with some personnel changes taking place and things dont get any easier this weekend as they stay in the North-West region to play Cheshire Jets who have a great BBL Championship record and especially at Northgate.

Paul Smith and his team have also made a change this week with center Steve Smith coming in for Jason Killeen and ready to debut against the Lions. He isnt likely to make it for tomorrow night when the Jets face a really tough game at Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders in what promises to be another cracking atmosphere at the JSSC.

Riders themselves also have a tough road trip as they head noth of the border and to Kelvin Hall to face Glasgow Rocks who have really been going great of late, especially at home although they will still be smarting from opening 2011 with a loss at Guildford.

The Heat have a weekend double to take care of and tip-off the weekends action at Sports Central in Newcastle looking to inflict a first home-court loss of the season on the Eagles and Creon Raftopoulos is naturally expecting a tough game and trying to work out who to try and stop first!

Moore and Chapman first come to mind with a very talented experienced group Fab has put together both players can shoot and attack the rim so it will be key to contain them.

Charles Smith comes off the bench and is one of the leagues best three point shooters so limiting his good shots will be important.

On the boards Defoe is a rebounding machine so our bigs will have their hands full.

The Heat then host Essex Pirates on Sunday which is a potential banana skin in waiting as the BBL basement club play the second of their weekend double header.

Things dont get any easier for Tim Lewis and his young team their search for a first win of the campaign continues tonight against One Health Sharks Sheffield team no doubt keen to make amends for their capitulation to the Eagles last time out.

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URUGUAY

Sebastian Vazquez will debut next week with Bigua - by Sergio Palay
As it happened days ago with Juan Pablo Silveira (191-G-86, college: Weber St.), Sebastian Vazquez (195-F-85) was authorized by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to play basketball again.

Former Union Atletica player was suspended after testing positive in a antidoping control at last march.

Vazquez has been training in Atletico Bigua since early season. Next week he will revalidate the medical card and will debut in the LUB 2010-2011. Will undoubtedly be an especially valuable contribution to give break to Juan Jose Rovira (180-G-76).

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VENEZUELA

Venezuelans in NCAA - Echenique (Creighton) falls against Missouri State - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan PF Gregory Echenique (205-C-90), coming off the bench, could not avoid the defeat of Creighton Blue Jays against Missouri State, 67-55, in an NCAA's Division 1 match played at Qwest Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Echenique played 23 minutes and ended up with 8 points, 3 rebouds, 2 assists, a turnover and a couple of fouls. He scored 3 for 6 from the two-point stance and 2 for 2 from the free-throw line.

Missouri State's top scorers were Jermaine Mallett (190-G-88) with 15 points, Kyle Weems (198-F-89) with 14, Will Creekmore (205-C-89) with 12 and Nafis Ricks (185-G) with 10. Creighton's best guys were Doug McDermott (200-F) with 17 points, Antoine Young (182-G-89) with 14 and Kenny Lawson (205-C-88) with 10.

Creighton (10-5, 2-1 MVC) will visit Southern Illinois (8-6, 2-1 MVC) in Carbondale, Illinois, next Friday (Jan. 7th).

Venezuelans in the NBA - Greivis Vasquez (Memphis) with 6 assists in win over Oklahoma - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan guard Greivis Vasquez (198-G-87), of the Memphis Grizzlies (16-19), supported his team with 1 point, 2 rebounds and 6 assists in a home victory over Oklahoma City Thunder (23-13), 110-105.

The 'Venezuelan Sensation' played 14:22 minutes, missed a three-point shot and scored 1 of 2 attempts from the free-throw line. He also had three turnovers and 5 fouls during his time on court as the replacement of starting PG Mike Conley (186-G-87).

Vasquez, 23 years old, is playing his first season in the NBA after a very successful 4-year career in the NCAA, playing for the Maryland Terrapins in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Memphis's top scorers were Zach Randolph (206-C-81) with 31 points and 16 rebounds, Rudy Gay (206-F/G-86) with 27, Tony Allen (193-G-82) with 19 and Marc Gasol (212-C-85) with 10 points and 10 rebounds. O.J. Mayo (196-G-87) missed the match with a case of bronchitis and rookie Xavier Henry (198-G-91) continues missing in action due to injury.

The Grizzlies will face Utah Jazz on Friday (Jan. 7th). Vasquez is averaging 3.2 points, 2.0 assists and 1.0 rebounds per game in 29 matches as a weapon coming off the bench.

Venezuelans in Mexico - Diego Guevara helps Puebla get 2-0 lead in LNBP playoffs - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan PG Diego Guevara (184-G-77) has played outstanding basketball in the first two playoff games of LNBP's Angeles de Puebla, both victories over Lechugueros de Leon, 69-64 and 78-74, at Miguel Hidalgo Arena of Puebla.

Angeles is coached by Venezuelan Nelson Solorzano and his assistant, the former two-time NBA champion Carl Herrera . Guevara scored 18 points in the first match with 3 rebounds and 3 assists, a performance he surpassed in his second outing with 24 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan PG Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) contributed with 4 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists in Game 1 and then came up with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists in Game 2. The third Venezuelan player in the roster, PF Axiers Sucre (198-F-78), had a total of 7 points and 12 rebounds in the first game and 8 points and 13 rebounds in the second one.

Other players with good performances were SF Jermaine Walker (198-F-77) with 22 points in Game 1 and 19 points in Game 2, as well as PF-C Curtis Withers (203-F-84) with a couple of double-doubles, 14 points and 12 boards in Game 1 and 14 points and 12 rebounds in the second one.

For Lechugueros, Mike Smith (201-G/F-76) finished up with 20 points and 8 rebounds in Game 1, followed by Ricky Johns (193-G-85) with 14, and then, in Game 2, Johns netted 20 and Smith added 19 with 11 boards, followed by Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74) with 17 and Jamaal Jenkins (191-G) with 12.

LPB 2011 - Cocodrilos de Caracas begin trainings for Liga de las Americas - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas, current title holders of LPB, began training sessions for the upcoming edition of the FIBA Americas League -their group will be played from January 18th till the 20th- and the LPB 2011, set to begin on February 25th with a match against Gigantes de Guayana at Naciones Unidas Park of Caracas.

Head coach Nestor Salazar and assistant coaches Jose Dos Santos, Ibsen Castrillo and Gustavo Maza will work twice a day with the players. 'The LPB will be very competitive, we're the champions but we are set to go out for more', said Salazar through a press release.

The team will travel to San Juan, Puerto Rico, on January 17th, to play in Arecibo against Capitanes de Arecibo (Puerto Rico), Juventud Sionista (Argentina) and Halcones Rojos de Veracruz (Mexico).

Among the players who will report inmediately to trainings are Juan Herrera (197-F-81), Windy Graterol (204-C-86), Robert Palacios (185-G), Enrique Cova (190-G-88), Darwin Matos, Boris Urbina (195-G/F-84) and Derson Santos (197-F-84), though the roster also includes players such as Jesus Centeno (190-G-85), Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86), Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) and Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84), among others.

PG-SG Tayron Thomas (191-G-84) was the first imported player to arrive to the country, while Dominican center Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) will arrive on Saturday (Jan. 8th). It will be Martinez's seventh season in Venezuela, where he's achieved 113 games with at least 10-more points and 10-more rebounds. He played for Panteras de Miranda from 2002 till 2004 and for Cocodrilos since 2008, winning a couple of LPB championship titles and gaining two LPB Finals MVP awards.

Carl Elliott (193-G-83) will complete the imported player staff.

LPB 2011 - Marinos de Anzoategui starts preseason on Saturday (Jan. 8th) - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Marinos de Anzoategui made the date public (January 8th) for the beginning of their official preseason trainings heading towards LPB 2011 season, which will begin on February 25th.

GM Gianni Patino said that 10 players who belong to the franchises's secondary team, TNT Anzoategui of Liga Especial (LEB), will start working out at Luis Ramos Arena alongside veteran PF-C Jose Manuel Briceno (203-C/F-79), while PF-C Luis Julio (202-F-80) and PG-SG Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) will report to the sessions next week.

Assistant coach Henry Paruta will be in charge with physical trainer Luis Mejias, as Patino explained that Argentinian head coach Fernando Duro is expected to travel to Venezuela between January 14th and the 17th.

Former NBA SF Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76), recovering from a season ending knee-injury since last August, will begin his special rehab assignment next week and is expected to play at full capacity the whole season.

Venezuelans overseas - Tezenis Verona (Italy/D2) wants Hector Romero - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Tezenis Verona, a team fighting to avoid demotion in Italy's Lega 2, is interested in bringing in Venezuelan PF Hector Romero (202-F/C-80) to replace American Keith Waleskowski (204-C/F-80) in the active roster, but apparent visa related issues and bureaucratic problems have delayed his signing, according to the team's GM, Andrea Fadini.

Corriere Dello Sport, Sportando.net and Scaligera Basket reported talks between Romero's representatives and Tezenis Verona. Romero has played before in the country for teams such as Legea Scafati, Snaidero Udine and Montepaschi Siena, for which he even took part in the Euroleague's Final Four a couple of years ago.

'We had reached an agreement with an extra communitarian player (Romero) but it hasn't been confirmed due to a personal problem of a legal matter that dates back to two years ago, of which the player did not even have an idea about. It's just a stupid bureaucratic think that has blocked everything so far and that only the player and his lawyers can resolve', said GM Andrea Fadini.

If Romero, current LNB champion with Espartanos de Margarita and who played in both Liga Suramericana and the FIBA Americas League, can't reach an agreement with Verona, he would like stay in the country to play for Marinos de Anzoategui in the upcoming LPB season. If he signs with Verona, he would be busy till April 30th, the date of Lega 2's final games of the regular season.

Venezuelans in Spain - Zamora scores 18 but Clinicas Rincon falls in LEB Gold action - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan SF Jhornan Zamora (194-F-89) scored 18 points with 8 rebounds and 4 assists, but his team, Instituto Clinicas Rincon was defeated in a visit to Leches Rio Breogan Lugo, 76-67, as part of Spain's LEB Gold action, second division basketball.

Zamora played 27:25 minutes and added 2 steals, though he had a turnover and a foul. Lugo's top scorers were James Feldeine (193-G-88) with 22 points, Joao Correia (183-G-88) with 14 and Jose Amador (210-F/C-83) with 12. For Clinicas Rincon, besides Zamora, Nedzad Sinanovic (221-C-83) finished up with 17 points and Angel Garcia (210-F-88) with 11.

Zamora averages 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game in 14 matches.

Roman scores 8
Meanwhile, in LEB Silver action, Venezuelan C Javier Roman (207-F/C-80) scored 8 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and added a steal and 4 fouls in 27:40 minutes, but his team, Feve Oviedo Baloncesto, was taken down by Clavijo, 86-73.

Clavijo took command of the situation thanks to Matt Witt (183-G-84) with 21 points, David Mesa (200-C-80) with 16, Enrique Suarez (185-G-83) with 14 and Kyle Swanston (201-F) with 13. For Oviedo, Kevin Ratzsch (201-F-86) ended up with 16, Ian O'Leary (201-F-86) with 15 and Tony Tate (180-G-82) 11. Roman averages 14.1 points, 6.4 rebounds and 0.7 assists per game.

Blanco on court
Venezuelan PF-C Adolfo Blanco (208-C-89), a prospect who belongs to Autocid Ford Burgos (LEB Gold) and is playing EBA with Universidad de Burgos, played 5:44 minutes with 0 points, 3 rebounds, 3 turnovers and 2 fouls, as his team defeated Tabirako Baque, 86-79.

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VTB UNITED LEAGUE

Curry number one in VTB United League for round 6 - by Eurobasket News
American guard Ramel Curry (191-G-80) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Azovmash Mariupol, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 6.
The 31-year old player was the main contributor (26 points, three rebounds and four assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Asseco Prokom (#4, 3-4) 85-76. Azovmash is placed at 2nd position in VTB United League group B. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Azovmash will need more victories to improve their 4-2 record. Curry turned to be Azovmash's top player in his first season with the team. Former Cal State - Bakersfield star has very solid stats this year. Curry is in league's top in points (5th best: 17.0ppg) and averages impressive 2.7spg,57.5% FGP and 50.0% from behind 3-point line.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Jamar Wilson (185-G-84) of Honka Espoo Playboys. Wilson had a very good evening with 28 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists. Bad luck as Honka lost that game 75-90 to the higher-ranked Lietuvos Rytas (#3, 4-2). Honka managed to keep the same 6th spot in group A. 6 lost games are too many considering they did not win any game. Wilson is a newcomer at Honka, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.3ppg (#2).

Third on the list of top players last round was guard Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) of Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (#3). Gecevicius scored 19 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Lietuvos Rytas, leading his team to a 90-75 easy win against Honka (#6, 0-6). Lietuvos Rytas needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in group A. Their record at this point is 4 victories and 2 lost games. Gecevicius has a very solid season. In 5 games in VTB United League he scored 14.6ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tyler Cain (203-F-88) of VEF Riga - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Kaspars Berzins (213-F/C-85) of VEF Riga - 17 points and 7 rebounds
6. Benjamin Eze (207-C/F-81) of Khimky - 18 points and 6 rebounds
7. Daniel Ewing (191-G-83) of Asseco Prokom - 26 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Shawn King (208-C-82) of Minsk-2006 - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Tywain McKee (188-G-86) of Minsk-2006 - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79) of Unics - 21 points and 2 rebounds

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

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Women News

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AUSTRIA - Women

AWBL Round 13: BC Vienna loses to UBI Graz in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
The game between Top Four teams took place in Wien. 4th placed host BC Vienna (7-6) lost to third ranked UBI Graz (8-4) 53-45. UBI Graz maintains third place with 8-4 record having four points less than leader Fl.Foxes. BC Vienna at the other side keeps the fourth position with six games lost. They share it with UBBC. UBI Graz are looking forward to face league's leader Flying Foxes in Wien in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. BC Vienna will play on the road against SK Kammer in Seewalchen and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
AWBL top team - Flying Foxes (12-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifth ranked UBBC (7-6) in Wien 79-36. Undefeated Flying Foxes have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 12-0 record. Newly promoted UBBC dropped to the fourth position with six games lost. They share it with BC Vienna. Flying Foxes will play against UBI Graz (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. UBBC will have a break next round.

Fl.Foxes - UBBC 79-36

AWBL top team - Flying Foxes (12-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifth ranked UBBC (7-6) in Wien 79-36. Flying Foxes have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 12-0 record. Newly promoted UBBC dropped to the fourth position with six games lost. They share it with BC Vienna. Flying Foxes will play against UBI Graz (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. UBBC will have a break next round.

Round 17

BC Vienna - UBI Graz 45-53

The game between Top Four teams took place in Wien. 4th placed host BC Vienna (7-6) lost to third ranked UBI Graz (8-4) 53-45. UBI Graz maintains third place with 8-4 record having four points less than leader Fl.Foxes. BC Vienna at the other side keeps the fourth position with six games lost. They share it with UBBC. UBI Graz are looking forward to face league's leader Flying Foxes in Wien in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. BC Vienna will play on the road against SK Kammer in Seewalchen and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.

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CHINA - Women

WCBA Round 11: Shenyang Golden Lions edge Henan Elephants by three points - by Eurobasket News
WCBA is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 11 rounds left.

Eleventh-ranked Henan Elephants (2-9) made lots of trouble for first ranked Shenyang Golden Lions (9-2) in Jiyuan on Saturday. The visitors from Dandong managed to secure only three-point victory 82-79. However their fans expected much easier game. Shenyang Golden Lions has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 9-2 record. Henan Elephants lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with nine games lost. Shenyang Golden Lions are looking forward to face Liaoning Hengye (#5) in Anshan in the next round. Henan Elephants will play on the road against Heilongjiang Chenneng (#6) in Harbin and are hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
Another very interesting game took place in Beijing. It ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-ranked Bayi Kylin (8-3) to eighth ranked Beijing Great Wall (5-6) 58-55 on Saturday evening. Beijing Great Wall maintains eighth place with 5-6 record, which they share with Yunnan. Bayi Kylin at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Guangdong. Beijing Great Wall will play against higher ranked Guangdong Dolphins (#3) in Dongguan in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Bayi Kylin will play on the road against Jiangsu Phoenix in Yixing and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game was played in Hangzhou where host Zhejiang Far East (#7) won against 4th placed Jiangsu Phoenix 82-78 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Jiangsu Phoenix. Zhejiang Far East (6-5) moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Heilongjiang. Loser Jiangsu Phoenix keeps the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Liaoning. Zhejiang Far East will meet Shanghai Octopus (#10) on the road in the next round. Jiangsu Phoenix will play against the league's second-placed Bayi Kylin (#2) in Yinzhou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Fujian Nanan (0-11) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 103-74 loss to third ranked Guangdong Dolphins (8-3) in Dongguan. But it was rather predictable considering how strong their opponent was. Guangdong Dolphins moved-up to second place, which they share with Bayi. Fujian Nanan at the other side still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Guangdong Dolphins' next round opponent will be Beijing Great Wall (#8) on the road which should be theoretically another easy game. Fujian Nanan will play against Qujing Yunnan (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Qujing, where 6th ranked Heilongjiang Chenneng (6-5) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked Qujing Yunnan (5-6) 108-78 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Heilongjiang Chenneng. Qujing Yunnan moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Beijing. Loser Heilongjiang Chenneng keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Qujing Yunnan will face bottom-ranked Fujian Nanan (#12) in Putian in the next round.

In the last game of round 11 Liaoning defeated Shanghai in Anshan 73-62.

Shanghai - Liaoning 62-73

There was no surprise when 10th ranked Shanghai Octopus (3-8) were defeated at home by fifth ranked Liaoning Hengye (7-4) 73-62 on Saturday. Liaoning Hengye moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Jiangsu. Loser Shanghai Octopus keep the tenth position with eight games lost. Liaoning Hengye will face league's leader Shenyang Golden Lions in Dandong in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Shanghai Octopus will play at home against Zhejiang Far East (#7) in Hangzhou.

Yunnan - Heilongjiang 108-78

We should mention about the upset which took place in Qujing, where 6th ranked Heilongjiang Chenneng (6-5) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked Qujing Yunnan (5-6) 108-78 on Saturday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Heilongjiang Chenneng. Qujing Yunnan moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Beijing. Loser Heilongjiang Chenneng keeps the sixth position with five games lost. Qujing Yunnan will face bottom-ranked Fujian Nanan (#12) in Putian in the next round.

Henan - Shenyang 79-82

Eleventh-ranked Henan Elephants (2-9) made lots of trouble for first ranked Shenyang Golden Lions (9-2) in Jiyuan on Saturday. The visitors from Dandong managed to secure only three-point victory 82-79. However their fans expected much easier game. Shenyang Golden Lions has a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 9-2 record. Henan Elephants lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with nine games lost. Shenyang Golden Lions are looking forward to face Liaoning Hengye (#5) in Anshan in the next round. Henan Elephants will play on the road against Heilongjiang Chenneng (#6) in Harbin and are hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.

Beijing - Bayi 58-55

Another very interesting game took place in Beijing. It ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-ranked Bayi Kylin (8-3) to eighth ranked Beijing Great Wall (5-6) 58-55 on Saturday evening. Beijing Great Wall maintains eighth place with 5-6 record, which they share with Yunnan. Bayi Kylin at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. They share it with Guangdong. Beijing Great Wall will play against higher ranked Guangdong Dolphins (#3) in Dongguan in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Bayi Kylin will play on the road against Jiangsu Phoenix in Yixing and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Guangdong - Fujian 103-74

Bottom-ranked Fujian Nanan (0-11) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 103-74 loss to third ranked Guangdong Dolphins (8-3) in Dongguan. But it was rather predictable considering how strong their opponent was. Guangdong Dolphins moved-up to second place, which they share with Bayi. Fujian Nanan at the other side still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Guangdong Dolphins' next round opponent will be Beijing Great Wall (#8) on the road which should be theoretically another easy game. Fujian Nanan will play against Qujing Yunnan (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

Zhejiang - Jiangsu 82-78

An interesting game was played in Hangzhou where host Zhejiang Far East (#7) won against 4th placed Jiangsu Phoenix 82-78 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Jiangsu Phoenix. Zhejiang Far East (6-5) moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Heilongjiang. Loser Jiangsu Phoenix keeps the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with Liaoning. Zhejiang Far East will meet Shanghai Octopus (#10) on the road in the next round. Jiangsu Phoenix will play against the league's second-placed Bayi Kylin (#2) in Yinzhou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

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DENMARK - Women

Best Statistic Players till round 13 - by Kasper Lays
Best Statistic Players till round 13

Points Per Game
Beckley (Lemvig Basket) 23.8 tot.310

Rebounds Per Game
Fuller (Falcon) 12.5 tot.129

Assists Per Game
Krogh (Aabyhoj) 4.2 tot.46

Steals Per Game
Blands (Sisu) 3.2 tot.42

Blocks Per Game
Fuller (Falcon) 2.6 tot.29

2 Points Scoring Percentage
Smith (Horsens) 68% 68/105

3 Points Scoring Percentage
Christiansen Houmlle (Horsens) 36.7 11/30

Free Throws Scoring Percentage
Palacios (Lemvig) 100% 28/28
Florencia Palacios (181-G/F-85)

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ESTONIA - Women

Estonian Women U18 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Starting five

Laurimaa

Uprus

Kullamaa

Saat

Lilleallik

Mari-Liis Jogeva

178-F-93

NikeWomen

Ele-Riin Tammik

173-G-94

NikeWomen

Nele Laurimaa

176-F-93

TLU/Volta

Birgit Piibur

160-G-94

Audentes

Greeta Uprus

175-G-94

Audentes

Eliise Pajumets

162-G-94

Audentes

Liis Kullamaa

165-G-94

Audentes

Ellen-Anett Poldmaa

171-G-94

Audentes

Katlin Saat

189-C-93

Audentes

Liis Riis

174-F-93

NikeWomen

Janeli Lilleallik

168-G-94

Tartu Ulikooli Estonia

Ereli Sade

165-G-94

Tartu Ulikooli Estonia

Estonian Women U16 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Sofia Anissimova

176-F-96

Kristina Minski

163-G-95

Audentes

Kristi Tamp

170-G-95

Audentes

Kadri-Ann Lass

175-F-96

Audentes

Eeva-Gloria Kilu

178-F-87

Mariann Adelbert

185-F/C-98

Jane Svilberg

178-F/C-95

Audentes

Marta-Liisa Suitslepp

173-G-95

Audentes

Janne Mutli

169-G-95

Tatjana Razguljaeva

172-G-96

TLU/Volta

Karmel Kurvits

177-F-95

Audentes

Anett Nurm

181-F-96

Marie Roosalu

172-G-96

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FINLAND - Women

Finnish Women U18 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Starting five

Bedretdin

Runsas

Kuisma

Nurmi

Korhonen

Noora Lakaniemi

170-G-93

Meral Bedretdin

174-G-93

Espoo Team Finland

Riikka Riihimaki

181-F-93

Elisa Runsas

179-G-94

Roosa Myllyveraja

174-G-93

Kaisa Kuisma

180-F-94

S-Hameenmaa Finland

Ellen Nurmi

182-F-93

ToPo

Asta Sillanpaa

179-F-93

Noora Jarvikangas

181-F-94

KaPo

Noora Korhonen

182-F-94

Salla Pelkonen

181-F-94

Maija Jantti

185-F-94

HoNsU

Jussi Laakso

Head Coach

Helsinki

Mirka Dettmann

Assistant

Espoo Team Finland

Finnish Women U16 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Starting five

Jamsa

Purhonen

Rantanen

Aijanen

Veera Kesanen

165-G-95

S-Hameenmaa Finland

Anni Jamsa

164-G-95

HyPo

Jasmin Dolivo

165-G-95

Ulriikka Latvala

173-G-95

Petra Noponen

173-G-96

Jenni Rantanen

186-C/F-91

FoA

Elina Koskimies

178-F-96

Veera Valimaa

182-F-96

Tuuli Menna

180-F-96

Vilma Purhonen

183-F-95

Wartti

Moona Hamalainen

194-F/C-95

Anniina Aijanen

186-F/C-95

Pyrinto

Harri Jokela

Head Coach

Ilpo Rantanen

Assistant

Pyrinto

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ISRAEL - Women

D1 Round 12: Maccabi Ashdod beats Elitzur Holon in overtime - by Eurobasket News
Eighth-ranked Elitzur Holon (3-9) made lots of trouble for third ranked Maccabi Ashdod (8-4) on Thursday. Maccabi Ashdod managed to secure only two-point victory 89-87. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 15-13 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 2-point victory in overtime. Maccabi Ashdod looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Ambrosia Anderson (186-84, college: BYU) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points, 19 rebounds and 4 assists. Swingman Tamara James (178-84, college: Miami (FL), agency: 540 Sports) chipped in 22 points and 15 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Kerri Gardin (186-84, college: Virginia Tech) who recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and 18 rebounds. Maccabi Ashdod maintains third position with 8-4 record having just three points less than leader Elitzur Ramla, which they share with Ramat Hen. Elitzur Holon at the other side keeps the eighth place with nine games lost. Maccabi Ashdod is looking forward to face league's leader Elitzur Ramla on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Elitzur Holon will play against Elitzur Netanya (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Electra Ramat (10-2) against seventh ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-7) on Thursday night. Visiting Electra Ramat was defeated by seventh ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-7) in a tough game in Netanya 70-78. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Electra Ramat. It was a good game for American guard Ashley Shields (178-85, college: SW Tenn.St.CC) who led her team to a victory with 33 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds. Ashley Houts contributed with 9 points, 6 assists and 5 steals for the winners. American swingman Camille Little (188-85, college: N.Carolina) replied with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds for Electra Ramat. Elitzur Netanya maintains seventh position with 5-7 record. Defending champion Electra Ramat keeps the second place with two games lost. Elitzur Netanya will play against Elitzur Holon (#8) on the road in the next round. Electra Ramat will play against Raanana Hertzeliya (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Leader Elitzur Ramla delivered the eleventh victory on Thursday night. This time they crushed 9th ranked Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion (2-10) 86-65. The game was also dominated by American players. Worth to mention a quality performance of Le'Coe Willingham who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds. Elitzur Ramla's coach Adan Inbar felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was Jillian Robbins with 26 points and 6 rebounds. Elitzur Ramla (11-1) have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the ninth place with ten games lost. Elitzur Ramla will meet at home Maccabi Ashdod (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion will play against Hapoel Tel-Aviv (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Hapoel Tel-Aviv (0-12) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 94-28 loss to fourth ranked Maccabi Ramat Hen (8-4) in Ramat Hen. The winners were led by Ashley Walker who had that evening a double-double by scoring 16 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. Coach Shiki Falah's team controlled all game and the coach could let to play 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Maccabi Ramat Hen moved-up to third place, which they share with Maccabi Ashdod. Hapoel Tel-Aviv at the other side still closes the standings with 12 games lost. Maccabi Ramat Hen's next round opponent will be Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion (#5) at home. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will play against Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

In the last game of round 12 Raanana Her. defeated H.R. Le-Zion in Hertzeliya 64-55.

Maccabi Ashdod - Elitzur Holon 89-87 OT

Eighth-ranked Elitzur Holon (3-9) made lots of trouble for third ranked Maccabi Ashdod (8-4) on Thursday. Maccabi Ashdod managed to secure only two-point victory 89-87. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 15-13 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 2-point victory in overtime. Maccabi Ashdod looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Ambrosia Anderson (186-84, college: BYU) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points, 19 rebounds and 4 assists. Swingman Tamara James (178-84, college: Miami (FL), agency: 540 Sports) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 15 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Kerri Gardin (186-84, college: Virginia Tech) who recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and 18 rebounds and guard Shannon Bobbitt (157-85, college: Tennessee) added 24 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists respectively. Five Elitzur Holon players scored in double figures. Maccabi Ashdod maintains third position with 8-4 record having just three points less than leader Elitzur Ramla, which they share with Ramat Hen. Elitzur Holon at the other side keeps the eighth place with nine games lost. Maccabi Ashdod is looking forward to face league's leader Elitzur Ramla on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Elitzur Holon will play against Elitzur Netanya (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Holon: K.Gardin 24+18reb+1ast, S.Bobbitt 24+5reb+7ast, C.Shtain 14+2reb+1ast, M.Ovadia 13+4reb+1ast, S.Lynette Sam 10+12reb+4ast, H.Segal 2+1reb
Maccabi Ashdod: K.Levitsky 28+5reb+4ast, A.Anderson 23+19reb+4ast, T.James 22+15reb+2ast, R.Montgomery 8+3reb+7ast, N.Kolodny 5+5reb+5ast, D.Yahalomi 3+2reb

Ramat Hen - Hapoel T-A 94-28

Bottom-ranked Hapoel Tel-Aviv (0-12) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 94-28 loss to fourth ranked Maccabi Ramat Hen (8-4) in Ramat Hen. The game without a history. Maccabi Ramat Hen led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Hapoel Tel-Aviv to just 2 points in second quarter. Maccabi Ramat Hen held Hapoel Tel-Aviv to an opponent 21.3 percent shooting from the field compared to 48.8 percent accuracy of the winners. Maccabi Ramat Hen forced 20 Hapoel Tel-Aviv turnovers and outrebounded them 60-22 including a 23-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Maccabi Ramat Hen players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Hapoel Tel-Aviv's players. The winners were led by American power forward Ashley Walker (185-87, college: California, agency: Merit Sports) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 16 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists and the other American import forward Tiffany Jackson (191-85, college: Texas, agency: 540 Sports) supported her with 14 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. Five Maccabi Ramat Hen players scored in double figures. Coach Shiki Falah's team controlled all game and the coach could let to play 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Even 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists by American guard Rachel Jones (170-87, college: St.Mary's (TX)) did not help to save the game for Hapoel Tel-Aviv. Guard Danielle Dekel (178-86, college: Alaska-Anch.) added 7 points and 7 rebounds. Maccabi Ramat Hen moved-up to third place, which they share with Maccabi Ashdod. Hapoel Tel-Aviv at the other side still closes the standings with 12 games lost. Maccabi Ramat Hen's next round opponent will be Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion (#5) at home. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will play against Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Hapoel T-A: R.Jones 17+6reb+4ast, D.Dekel 7+7reb+3ast, D.Sanford 2+3reb, S.Alterman 0,

Ramat Hen: A.Walker 16+14reb+4ast, T.Jackson 14+13reb+5ast, I.Latta 13+6reb+6ast, S.Gigi 11+3reb+1ast, M.Epstain 10+4reb+4ast, K.Agassi 8+4reb+1ast

Elitzur R.Le-Zion - Elitzur Ramla 65-86

Leader Elitzur Ramla delivered the eleventh victory on Thursday night. This time they crushed 9th ranked Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion (2-10) 86-65. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 86-65. Elitzur Ramla dominated on the defensive end, holding Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion to just 6 points in third quarter. Elitzur Ramla forced 26 Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. The game was also dominated by American players. Worth to mention a quality performance of center Le'Coe Willingham (183-81, college: Auburn) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds and guard Tanisha Wright (180-83, college: Penn St., agency: LBM Management) who added 10 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Elitzur Ramla players scored in double figures. Elitzur Ramla's coach Adan Inbar felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was forward Jillian Robbins (185-84, college: Tulsa, agency: LBM Management) with 26 points and 6 rebounds and guard Ashley Barlow (175-88, college: Notre Dame, agency: Merit Sports) scored 15 points and 9 rebounds. Elitzur Ramla (11-1) have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the ninth place with ten games lost. Elitzur Ramla will meet at home Maccabi Ashdod (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion will play against Hapoel Tel-Aviv (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Elitzur R.Le-Zion: J.Robbins 26+6reb+3ast, A.Barlow 15+9reb+2ast, S.Shabtai 10+3reb+4ast, L.Williams 8+6reb+2ast, E.Yaari 4+1reb+1ast, S.Menashe 2+5reb+5ast
Elitzur Ramla: L.Willingham 22+13reb+3ast, S.Doron 14+2reb+4ast, T.Wright 10+8reb+3ast, O.Shwartz 10+1ast, Vaughn 9+1reb, S.Zairy 7+1reb+2ast

H.R. Le-Zion - Raanana Her. 55-64

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 5th ranked Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion (7-5) was defeated at home by sixth ranked Raanana Hertzeliya (6-6) 64-55. Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion was ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 39-29 second half run of Raanana Hertzeliya. They also forced 25 Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion turnovers. The winners were led by American guard Briann January (173-87, college: Arizona St.) who scored that evening 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and supported her with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Even 15 points and 8 rebounds by American forward Alysha Clark (178-87, college: Middle Tenn.St.) did not help to save the game for Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion. Her fellow American import forward Khadijah Whittington (186-86, college: N.Carolina St.) added 13 points and 7 rebounds. Raanana Hertzeliya maintains sixth position with 6-6 record. Newly promoted Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion keeps the fifth place with five games lost. Raanana Hertzeliya's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Electra Ramat in Hasharon and it may be quite challenging game. Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion will play on the road against Maccabi Ramat Hen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
H.R. Le-Zion: A.Clark 15+8reb, D.McCray 14+4reb+2ast, K.Whittington 13+7reb+2ast, R.Ross 8+3reb+6ast, K.Nechama 4+2reb, I.Mizrachi 1+4reb+1ast
Raanana Her.: J.Morris 22+5reb+1ast, B.January 18+5reb+5ast, B.Elohim 8+3reb, S.Sharon 7+3reb+2ast, C.Thomas 5+11reb+3ast, H.Izhar 4+1reb

Elitzur Netanya - Electra Ramat 78-70

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Electra Ramat (10-2) against seventh ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-7) on Thursday night. Visiting Electra Ramat was defeated by seventh ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-7) in a tough game in Netanya 70-78. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Electra Ramat. The hosts were already 11 points ahead at halftime and as many as 15 after three quarters before a 27-20 last quarter charge of Electra Ramat cut the lead to 78-70 at the end of the game. Elitzur Netanya made 23-of-27 charity shots (85.2 percent) during the game. They also forced 29 Electra Ramat turnovers. Strangely Electra Ramat outrebounded Elitzur Netanya 38-21 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a good game for American guard Ashley Shields (178-85, college: SW Tenn.St.CC) who led her team to a victory with 33 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds. The other American import guard Ashley Houts (168-87, college: Georgia) contributed with 9 points, 6 assists and 5 steals for the winners. American swingman Camille Little (188-85, college: N.Carolina) replied with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and international forward Merav Dori (178-86, agency: Data Plus Group) added 15 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Electra Ramat. Four Electra Ramat players scored in double figures. Elitzur Netanya maintains seventh position with 5-7 record. Defending champion Electra Ramat keeps the second place with two games lost. Elitzur Netanya will play against Elitzur Holon (#8) on the road in the next round. Electra Ramat will play against Raanana Hertzeliya (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Electra Ramat: C.Little 20+10reb+3ast, M.Dori 15+7reb+1ast, L.Wilson 11+5reb+6ast, E.Abramzon 10+5reb, C.Black 7+5reb+1ast, Y.Aharonov 4+2reb+3ast
Elitzur Netanya: A.Shields 33+6reb+2ast, A.Houts 9+3reb+6ast, L.Suez Karni 9+1reb+4ast, R.McCants 8+7reb+3ast, R.Galayda 6+4reb+2ast, O.Oren 6

Kia Vaughn appears in Elitzur Ramla - by Eurobasket News
Kia Vaughn (193-C-87, college: Rutgers) appears in Elitzur Ramla as she scored 9 points in another win of the team.Leader Elitzur Ramla delivered the eleventh victory on Thursday night. This time they crushed 9th ranked Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion (2-10) 86-65. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 86-65. Elitzur Ramla dominated on the defensive end, holding Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion to just 6 points in third quarter. Elitzur Ramla forced 26 Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. The game was also dominated by American players. Worth to mention a quality performance of center Le'Coe Willingham who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds and guard Tanisha Wright who added 10 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Elitzur Ramla players scored in double figures. Elitzur Ramla's coach Adan Inbar felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was forward Jillian Robbins with 26 points and 6 rebounds and guard Ashley Barlow (175-88, college: Notre Dame, agency: Merit Sports) scored 15 points and 9 rebounds. Elitzur Ramla (11-1) have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the ninth place with ten games lost. Elitzur Ramla will meet at home Maccabi Ashdod (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Elitzur Rishon Le-Zion will play against Hapoel Tel-Aviv (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
In 2009-2010 Kia played for A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra (Israel-D1, starting five) and after 28 games averaged 16.1ppg, 8.5rpg, FGP-3 (61.0%), FT: 64.0%. In 2010 she played for New York Liberty (WNBA) and in 35 games had 2.5ppg, 1.6rpg.
Kia Vaughn recorded 13 points and Cappie Pondexter scored 30 points, including a tiebreaking jumper with 28 seconds remaining, to lead the New York Liberty to a 77-74 victory over the Indiana Fever to advance to the Eastern Conference finals. Kia Vaughn took advantage of some extended playing time and scored a season-high 13 points, and Essence Carson added 11 as the Liberty reached the conference finals for the second time in three years.

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ITALY - Women

A1 Round 10: Umana Reyer edges Pool Comense by two points - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 10 in the A1 took place in Como. This derby game ended with only two-point home defeat of one of their biggest challengers Pool Comense (6-4) to seventh ranked Umana Reyer (5-5) 72-70 on Thursday evening. The guests trailed by 12 points after three quarters before their 28-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Giorgia Sottana (177-G-88) produced 22 points and added 11 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Angela Zampella had 18 pts in defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Umana Reyer moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Faenza. Pool Comense at the other side dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. Umana Reyer is looking forward to face higher ranked Bracco Geas (#4) in Sesto S.Giovanni in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Pool Comense will play on the road against Basket Parma and is hoping to win this game.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Schio. First ranked Familia Schio faced their biggest opponent Liomatic Umbertide. Host Familia Schio (9-1) defeated guests from Umbertide (8-2) 67-60. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Laura Macchi (187-79) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui contributed with 10 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. International forward Simona Ballardini (181-81) replied with 12 points and 4 assists for Liomatic Umbertide. Familia Schio has a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-1 record. Liomatic Umbertide at the other side keeps the second place with two games lost. They share the position with Taranto. Familia Schio will play against bottom-ranked Pallacanestro Pozzuoli (#12) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Liomatic Umbertide will play against Acer ERG Priolo (#9) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Priolo, where higher ranked Club Atletico Faenza (5-5) lost to tenth ranked Acer ERG Priolo (3-7) in a road game 69-80 on Thursday. Tanja Cirov scored 24 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners. At the losing side Adriana Moises Pinto responded with 18 points and 7 assists. Acer ERG Priolo moved-up to ninth place. Club Atletico Faenza lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with five games lost. They share it with Umana Reyer. Acer ERG Priolo will meet league's second-placed Liomatic Umbertide on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Club Atletico Faenza will play against Ducato Lucca (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Lucca. Local Ducato Lucca (4-6) outscored 9th ranked Vomero Napoli (2-8) 69-46. Courtney Willis notched 19 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort. Ducato Lucca's coach Mirco Diamanti felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Ducato Lucca has a solid three-game winning streak. Newly promoted Ducato Lucca maintains eighth position with 4-6 record. Vomero Napoli at the other side dropped to the tenth place with eight games lost. Ducato Lucca's next round opponent will be higher ranked Club Atletico Faenza (#6) on the road and it may be quite challenging game. Vomero Napoli will play against Cras Taranto (#3).

In the last two games of round 10 Basket Parma was crushed by Taranto in a road game 79-60. Bracco Geas beat Pozzuoli at home 69-62.
The best stats of 10th round was 24 points and 9 rebounds by Megan Mahoney of Taranto.

Taranto - Basket Parma 79-60

There was no surprise when 11th ranked Basket Parma (2-8) was crushed on the road by third ranked Cras Taranto (8-2) 79-60. It looked good early as Basket Parma took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Cras Taranto had a 19-7 second period charge getting the lead and Basket Parma was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 60-79. Cras Taranto dominated on the defensive end, holding Basket Parma to just 7 points in second quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Basket Parma's 28. Cras Taranto outrebounded Basket Parma 34-20 including a 28-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. American forward Megan Mahoney (183-83, college: Kansas St., agency: LBM Management) notched 24 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and the other American import forward Sophia Young (186-83, college: Baylor) supported her with 15 points. Even 16 points and 6 rebounds by French power forward Nicole Antibe (187-74) did not help to save the game for Basket Parma. The former international guard Valeria Battisodo (177-88) added 13 points for lost side. Cras Taranto has a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to second place, which they share with Umbertide. Basket Parma lost seventh consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with eight games lost. Cras Taranto's next round opponent will be Vomero Napoli (#10) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Basket Parma will play against Pool Comense in Como.
Top scorers:
Taranto: M.Mahoney 24+9reb+2ast, S.Young 15+4reb+2ast, S.Giauro 12+3reb, V.Siccardi 8+2reb+3ast, K.Wambe 7+6reb+7ast, E.Godin 6+6reb+1ast
Basket Parma: N.Antibe 16+6reb, V.Battisodo 13+3reb+3ast, P.Mauriello 11+4reb+1ast, N.Stevenson 6+3reb+2ast, M.Chiara Franchini 6+1reb+4ast, I.Pieropan 5+1reb

Comense - Umana Reyer 70-72

The most exciting game of round 10 in the A1 took place in Como. This derby game ended with only two-point home defeat of one of their biggest challengers Pool Comense (6-4) to seventh ranked Umana Reyer (5-5) 72-70 on Thursday evening. The guests trailed by 12 points after three quarters before their 28-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Giorgia Sottana (177-G-88) produced 22 points and added 11 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Angela Zampella had 18 pts in defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Umana Reyer moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Faenza. Pool Comense at the other side dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. Umana Reyer is looking forward to face higher ranked Bracco Geas (#4) in Sesto S.Giovanni in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Pool Comense will play on the road against Basket Parma and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Umana Reyer: S.Giorgia 22+4reb+2ast, O.Olena 14+6reb, O.Nicole 11+8reb+1ast, J.Daliborka 10+3reb+1ast, D.Ilisaine 9+3reb, M.Masha 5
Comense: Z.Angela 18+1reb+3ast, H.Cameo 16+3reb, D.Valentina 11+7reb+1ast, L.Jansone 10+10reb+1ast, F.Melissa 7, S.Laura 5+3reb

Familia Schio - Umbertide 67-60

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Schio. First ranked Familia Schio faced their biggest opponent Liomatic Umbertide. Host Familia Schio (9-1) defeated guests from Umbertide (8-2) 67-60. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Liomatic Umbertide was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Laura Macchi (187-79) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. French center Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-86) contributed with 10 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. International forward Simona Ballardini (181-81) replied with 12 points and 4 assists and the former international guard Francesca Zara (177-76, agency: Players Group) added 10 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Liomatic Umbertide. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Familia Schio has a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-1 record. Liomatic Umbertide at the other side keeps the second place with two games lost. They share the position with Taranto. Familia Schio will play against bottom-ranked Pallacanestro Pozzuoli (#12) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Liomatic Umbertide will play against Acer ERG Priolo (#9) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Familia Schio: L.Macchi 16+6reb+5ast, M.Erkic 13+2reb+1ast, L.Cohen 10+1reb+5ast, I.Yacoubou-Dehoui 10+7reb, R.Masciadri 6+5reb+2ast, C.Pastore 6+3reb+3ast
Umbertide: S.Ballardini 12+4reb+4ast, F.Zara 10+7reb+2ast, S.Cinili 10+1reb, T.Stansbury 10+5reb, C.Consolini 7+3reb+4ast, M.Jovanovic 4+1reb

Priolo - Faenza 80-69

We should mention about the upset which took place in Priolo, where higher ranked Club Atletico Faenza (5-5) lost to tenth ranked Acer ERG Priolo (3-7) in a road game 69-80 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Acer ERG Priolo. Club Atletico Faenza managed to win third quarter 21-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Acer ERG Priolo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 62.5 percentage. Serbian swingman Tanja Cirov (181-81) scored 24 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and Cuban forward Tania Seino (186-73) chipped in 12 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Four Acer ERG Priolo players scored in double figures. At the losing side Brazilian guard Adriana Moises Pinto (169-78) responded with 18 points and 7 assists and international guard Francesca Modica (177-81) scored 22 points. Acer ERG Priolo moved-up to ninth place. Club Atletico Faenza lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with five games lost. They share it with Umana Reyer. Acer ERG Priolo will meet league's second-placed Liomatic Umbertide on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Club Atletico Faenza will play against Ducato Lucca (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Priolo: T.Cirov 24+5reb, F.Pascalau 21+3reb+1ast, E.Fabbri 12+2reb+1ast, T.Seino 12+13reb, E.Buccianti 6+2reb+4ast, C.Corbani 3+1reb
Faenza: F.Modica 22+2ast, A.Moises Pinto 18+3reb+7ast, L.Ervin 12+11reb, S.Sarni 8+4reb+1ast, A.Breitreiner 7+2reb+1ast, B.Sciacca 2

Lucca - Vomero NA 69-46

The game with biggest result difference took place in Lucca. Local Ducato Lucca (4-6) outscored 9th ranked Vomero Napoli (2-8) 69-46. The game without a history. Ducato Lucca led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Vomero Napoli to just 6 points in fourth quarter. Ducato Lucca dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Vomero Napoli's 26. American power forward Courtney Willis (188-82, college: E.Carolina, agency: LBM Management) notched 19 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort and Portuguese forward Mery Andrade (181-75, college: ODU) supported her with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Four Ducato Lucca players scored in double figures. Ducato Lucca's coach Mirco Diamanti felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 13 points by Jamaican power forward Vanessa Gidden (193-85, college: Hofstra) did not help to save the game for Vomero Napoli. Montenegrin guard Aleksandra Vujovic (182-80, agency: LBM Management) added 11 points for lost side. Ducato Lucca has a solid three-game winning streak. Newly promoted Ducato Lucca maintains eighth position with 4-6 record. Vomero Napoli at the other side dropped to the tenth place with eight games lost. Ducato Lucca's next round opponent will be higher ranked Club Atletico Faenza (#6) on the road and it may be quite challenging game. Vomero Napoli will play against Cras Taranto (#3).
Top scorers:
Lucca: C.Willis 19+6reb+2ast, S.Hampton 16+6reb, B.Bagnara 11+1reb+4ast, M.Andrade 10+5reb+8ast, O.Dubrovina 6+1reb, M.Sandri 4+1reb+1ast
Vomero NA: V.Gidden 13+4reb, A.Vujovic 11+1reb+2ast, E.Callens 7+3reb, M.Micovic 5+6reb+2ast, M.Micovic 5+2reb+2ast, T.Grant 5+3reb

Bracco Geas - Pozzuoli 69-62

No shocking result in a game in Sesto S.Giovanni where fifth ranked Bracco Geas (7-3) defeated bottom-ranked Pallacanestro Pozzuoli (1-9) 69-62. It looked good early as Pallacanestro Pozzuoli took an 15-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Bracco Geas took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 7 points. The former international guard Ilaria Zanoni (180-86) notched 21 points to lead the effort and American guard Kristin Haynie (175-83, college: Michigan St.) supported her with 16 points and 4 assists. Even a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds by American center Marcedes Walker (191-86, college: Pittsburgh, agency: Merit Sports) did not help to save the game for Pallacanestro Pozzuoli. Her fellow American import guard Tamecka Dixon (176-75, college: Kansas, agency: Merit Sports) added 12 points and 9 rebounds for lost side. Bracco Geas have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. Pallacanestro Pozzuoli at the other side stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. Bracco Geas' next round opponent will be Umana Reyer (#7) in Venezia. Pallacanestro Pozzuoli will play at home against the league's leader Familia Schio (#1).
Top scorers:
Bracco Geas: I.Zanoni 21+3reb, K.Haynie 16+3reb+4ast, P.Ujhelyi 10+9reb+3ast, N.Wabara 8+4reb+1ast, G.Arturi 6+4reb+1ast, L.Summerton 4+4reb
Pozzuoli: M.Walker 22+11reb, I.Crasnoscioc 18+3reb, T.Dixon 12+9reb+3ast, A.Grasso 6+2reb, G.Gatti 2+3reb+1ast, L.Benko 2+7reb

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LATVIA - Women

Latvian Women U16 National Team 2011 - by Eurobasket

Elina Berzina

173-G-95

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Sigita Dzarcane

181-F-95

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Arta Fridenberga

Lelde Gulbe

Kate Kreslina

Kitija Laksa

Beate Markane

Marta Miscenko

185-C-95

TTT Kadetes Latvia

175-G-95

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Mudite Zandere

Head Coach

Martins Zibarts

Assistant

Latvian Women U18 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Starting five

Bridina

Aizsila

Geka

Kuzmane

Lagzdina

Krista Bridina

173-G-94

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Kate Aizsila

172-G-94

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Asnate-Marianna Fomina

168-G-94

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Linda Vilde

180-F-93

TTT Juniores Latvia

Renate Reine

176-G-94

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Ance Aizsila

176-G-94

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Agate Geka

169-G-93

TTT Juniores Latvia

Daiga Kuzmane

180-F-93

TTT Juniores Latvia

Paula Langina

179-F-94

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Paula Tomsone

192-C-94

TTT Kadetes Latvia

Anna Ozolina

182-F-93

TTT Juniores Latvia

Guna Lagzdina

182-C-93

TTT Juniores Latvia

Sabine Dukate

174-F-93

TTT Juniores Latvia

Ainars Cukste

Head Coach

TTT Juniores Latvia

Edijs Eglitis

Assistant

TTT Juniores Latvia

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LITHUANIA - Women

LMKL Round 15: Laisve is defeated by VICI Kaunas in a derby game - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Kaunas: VICI Kaunas (#1) and Laisve (#4). VICI Kaunas (13-0) won against visiting Laisve (7-6) 87-74. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Laisve. The game was mostly controlled by VICI Kaunas. Laisve managed to win third quarter 22-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VICI Kaunas outrebounded Laisve 43-32 including a 32-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for American center Amanda Kemezys (192-87, college: Saint Louis) who led her team to a victory scoring 22 points and 8 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). International guard Milda Sauliute (175-81) helped adding 13 points, 11 assists and 4 steals. The best for the losing side was guard Mante Kvederaviciute (180-90) with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Undefeated VICI Kaunas have an impressive series of thirteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 13-0 record. Laisve at the other side keeps the fourth position with six games lost. VICI Kaunas are looking forward to face MRU (#5) in Vilnius in the next round. Laisve will play at home against Utena and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked LKKA-Aistes (7-5) against sixth ranked Ruta Siauliai (3-10) on Friday night. Visiting LKKA-Aistes was defeated by sixth ranked Ruta Siauliai (3-10) in a tough game in Siauliai 70-74. It was an exceptional evening for forward Sandra Baliutaviciute (182-81) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 10 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). Silva Kuodiene accounted for 13 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Santa Okockyte (176-92) came up with 29 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals for LKKA-Aistes in the defeat. LKKA-Aistes' coach Aurimas Jasilionis tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. The victory was the third consecutive win for Ruta Siauliai. They maintain sixth place with 3-10 record. LKKA-Aistes at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. Ruta Siauliai will play against league's second-placed Lemminkainen in Klaipeda in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LKKA-Aistes will have a break next round.
The game in Vilnius supposed to be quite interesting. Second ranked Lemminkainen (8-4) played at the court of 5th ranked MRU (5-8). Lemminkainen smashed MRU 82-59 on Friday. The best player for the winners was Rima Margeviciute who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Diana Zintikaite who recorded 12 points. MRU's coach Algirdas Budenas gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Lemminkainen maintains second place with 8-4 record having six points less than leader VICI Kaunas. MRU lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the fifth position with eight games lost. Lemminkainen will meet at home Ruta Siauliai (#6) in the next round. MRU will play against the league's leader VICI Kaunas and hope to secure a win.

MRU - Lemminkainen 59-82

The game in Vilnius supposed to be quite interesting. Second ranked Lemminkainen (8-4) played at the court of 5th ranked MRU (5-8). Lemminkainen smashed MRU 82-59 on Friday. The game without a history. Lemminkainen led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Lemminkainen outrebounded MRU 40-29 including 26 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Rima Margeviciute (191-81, college: Liberty) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Monika Grigalauskyte (187-92) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. Four Lemminkainen players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Diana Zintikaite (166-91) who recorded 12 points and the former international guard Vaida Pacauskiene (176-79) added 11 points respectively. MRU's coach Algirdas Budenas gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Lemminkainen maintains second place with 8-4 record having six points less than leader VICI Kaunas. MRU lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the fifth position with eight games lost. Lemminkainen will meet at home Ruta Siauliai (#6) in the next round. MRU will play against the league's leader VICI Kaunas and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
MRU: D.Zintikaite 12+3reb+2ast, E.Sniokaite 12+1reb+2ast, V.Pacauskiene 11+4reb+1ast, S.Povilionyte 7+1reb+1ast, N.Bytautaite 7+2reb, G.Sniokaite 4+3reb+1ast
Lemminkainen: L.Povilonyte 17+3reb+2ast, R.Margeviciute 17+10reb+4ast, M.Grigalauskyte 13+11reb+1ast, R.Milieskiene 13+6reb+4ast, I.Visgaudaite 9+2reb+1ast, G.Gutkauskaite 7+4reb+1ast

Ruta Siauliai - LKKA-Aistes 74-70

Very important is a road loss of third ranked LKKA-Aistes (7-5) against sixth ranked Ruta Siauliai (3-10) on Friday night. Visiting LKKA-Aistes was defeated by sixth ranked Ruta Siauliai (3-10) in a tough game in Siauliai 70-74. It was an exceptional evening for forward Sandra Baliutaviciute (182-81) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 10 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). Forward Silva Kuodiene (180-81) accounted for 13 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Guard Santa Okockyte (176-92) came up with 29 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals and forward Jolanta Marmiene (181-79) added 8 points and 8 rebounds respectively for LKKA-Aistes in the defeat. LKKA-Aistes' coach Aurimas Jasilionis tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. The victory was the third consecutive win for Ruta Siauliai. They maintain sixth place with 3-10 record. LKKA-Aistes at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. Ruta Siauliai will play against league's second-placed Lemminkainen in Klaipeda in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LKKA-Aistes will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
LKKA-Aistes: S.Okockyte 29+5reb+7ast, G.Jasiunskaite 16, M.Petrauskaite 9+3reb, L.Svaryte 8+5reb+2ast, J.Marmiene 8+8reb, J.Sarkauskaite 0+2reb
Ruta Siauliai: S.Baliutaviciute 27+10reb+3ast, E.Briedyte 14+3reb+2ast, S.Kuodiene 13+5reb+2ast, B.Dominauskaite 8+7reb+5ast, A.Tamutyte 7+8reb+3ast, I.Kazlauskaite 5+4reb+1ast

VICI Kaunas - Laisve 87-74

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Kaunas: VICI Kaunas (#1) and Laisve (#4). VICI Kaunas (13-0) won against visiting Laisve (7-6) 87-74. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Laisve. The game was mostly controlled by VICI Kaunas. Laisve managed to win third quarter 22-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VICI Kaunas outrebounded Laisve 43-32 including a 32-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a great evening for American center Amanda Kemezys (192-87, college: Saint Louis) who led her team to a victory scoring 22 points and 8 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). International guard Milda Sauliute (175-81) helped adding 13 points, 11 assists and 4 steals. The best for the losing side was guard Mante Kvederaviciute (180-90) with 20 points and 8 rebounds and the former international guard Ligita Kinkeviciene (173-76) scored 9 points and 11 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. VICI Kaunas have an impressive series of thirteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 13-0 record. Laisve at the other side keeps the fourth position with six games lost. VICI Kaunas are looking forward to face MRU (#5) in Vilnius in the next round. Laisve will play at home against Utena and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Laisve: M.Kvederaviciute 20+8reb+3ast, E.Taraseviciute 15+5reb+2ast, E.Sarapaite 13+4reb+3ast, J.Budryte 10+5reb+1ast, L.Kinkeviciene 9+4reb+11ast, E.Steikunaite 7+4reb
VICI Kaunas: A.Kemezys 22+8reb+2ast, M.Solopova 20+5reb+2ast, M.Sauliute 13+3reb+11ast, V.Kuktiene 11+7reb+2ast, A.Kristina 8+10reb, R.Valentiene 7+4reb+4ast

Kristina Vengryte joins VICI - by Eurobasket News
Kristina Vengryte (190-C-81) joins VICI as Lithuanian player comes back home. In 2004-2005 she started for AKRA LEUKA-UNIV. ALICANTE (Spain-LF2) and then in 2005-2006 moved to Cadi la Seu D'urgell (Spain-LFB) and after 17 games averaged 2.8ppg, 1.8rpg. In 2006-2007 she played for Ducato Siena (Italy-A2, starting five) and then for 2 years for Consum.it Siena. In 2009-2010 spent a season for Basket Napoli (Italy-A1, starting five). In 25 games she had 7.4ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.6spg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 31.6%, FT: 65.9%. In Italy she recorded 19 points in the game versus Priolo. The latter closed Round 13 with 85-61 win against the last ranked Vomero NA. Florina Pascalau stepped up for the hosts with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Tanja Cirov and Roberta Meneghel followed with 15 and 13 pts respectively. Visitors got 19 pts from Kristina Vengryte.
In her debut in Lithuanian VICI Kaunas won against visiting Laisve (7-6) 87-74. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Laisve. The game was mostly controlled by VICI Kaunas. Laisve managed to win third quarter 22-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VICI Kaunas outrebounded Laisve 43-32 including a 32-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists.

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NCAA1 - Women

Lady Vols smash Alabama - by George Fragkos
Glory Johnson (6'3''-F-90) scored 19 points off the bench as No. 5 Tennessee cruised to a 110-45 win over Alabama on Thursday night.

The Lady Volunteers (14-2, 2-0 Southeastern Conference) have won 37 consecutive games against the Crimson Tide, their second longest active streak against another team. Tennessee has beaten South Carolina 38 straight times.

Alabama (11-4, 0-2) hit only one of its first 13 shots and went scoreless for seven minutes early in the first half. That allowed Tennessee to take a 24-3 lead with 12:16 before halftime off a jumper by Taber Spani.

The Lady Vols used 59.4 percent shooting in the first half to take a 59-22 lead at halftime. They extended their margin to 67 points in the second half before Alabama's Jasmine Robinson hit a jumper to close the game.

Tierney Jenkins (6'0''-F-89) led the Tide with 11 points.

Courtesy: UTLADYVOLS.COM

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PORTUGAL - Women

Liga Feminina Round 14: CAB Madeira wins overtime game against Olivais - by Eurobasket News
Fourth-ranked Olivais (7-6) gave a tough game to first ranked CAB Madeira (11-2) in Funchal on Saturday. CAB Madeira managed to secure only three-point victory 62-59. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Olivais. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Olivais won fourth quarter 17-9. 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 Olivais used huge preassure winning it 17-9 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 4-7. CAB Madeira made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Olivais turnovers. American forward Utahya Drye (185-88, college: Virginia Tech) had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international guard Carla Freitas (170-80) chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. American forward Earnesia Williams (185-87, college: Texas) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds. CAB Madeira has a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-2 record, which they share with AD Vagos. Olivais at the other side dropped to the fifth place with six games lost. They share the position with Alges. CAB Madeira is looking forward to face league's second-placed AD Vagos at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Olivais will have a break next round.
A very close game took place in Carcavelos between Alges and Quinta. Sixth ranked Alges (7-6) got a very close victory on the road over 3rd ranked Quinta (10-2). Alges managed to escape with a 3-point win 55-52 on Saturday evening. Alges moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Olivais. Quinta at the other side keeps the third position with two games lost. Alges will play against CDTN (#7) in Torres Novas in the next round. Quinta will play at home against GDESSA (#8) in Barreiro and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Another very close game took place in Torres Novas between CDTN and GDESSA. Seventh ranked CDTN (6-8) got a very close home victory over 8th ranked GDESSA (5-9). CDTN managed to escape with a 3-point win 58-55 in the game for the seventh place. Newly promoted CDTN maintains seventh position with 6-8 record. GDESSA lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with nine games lost. CDTN will meet at home higher ranked Alges (#5) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. GDESSA will play against Quinta in Carcavelos and hope to secure a win.
Fourth ranked Boa Viagem (8-5) crushed at home 10th ranked Barcelos (3-11) by 48 points 73-25, which is the biggest margin this round. Chevon Keith orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds. Boa Viagem maintains fourth position with 8-5 record. Barcelos at the other side keep the tenth place with 11 games lost. Boa Viagem's next round opponent will be Academico (#9) in Porto where they are favorite. Barcelos will play on the road against Uniao Micaelense in Ponta Delgada and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 14 Academico destroyed Uniao Micaelense on the opponent's court 60-24.

CAB Madeira - Olivais 62-59 OT

Fourth-ranked Olivais (7-6) gave a tough game to first ranked CAB Madeira (11-2) in Funchal on Saturday. CAB Madeira managed to secure only three-point victory 62-59. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Olivais. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Olivais won fourth quarter 17-9. 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 Olivais used huge preassure winning it 17-9 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 4-7. CAB Madeira made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Olivais turnovers. American forward Utahya Drye (185-88, college: Virginia Tech) had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international guard Carla Freitas (170-80) chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. American forward Earnesia Williams (185-87, college: Texas) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds and her fellow American import forward Kiva Herman (183-87, college: San Diego) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. CAB Madeira has a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-2 record, which they share with AD Vagos. Olivais at the other side dropped to the fifth place with six games lost. They share the position with Alges. CAB Madeira is looking forward to face league's second-placed AD Vagos at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Olivais will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Olivais: E.Williams 15+14reb+1ast, K.Herman 14+12reb+1ast, M.Brandao 9+3reb+1ast, N.Tavares 8+2reb, A.Fonseca 7+2reb+1ast, S.Silva 6+5reb+2ast
CAB Madeira: U.Drye 26+15reb+1ast, C.Freitas 13+6reb+2ast, J.Starling 9+7reb+2ast, M.Correia 6+2reb, V.Pacheco 4+7reb+1ast, M.Goncalves 3

Boa Viagem - Barcelos 73-25

Fourth ranked Boa Viagem (8-5) crushed at home 10th ranked Barcelos (3-11) by 48 points 73-25, which is the biggest margin this round. The game without a history. Boa Viagem led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Barcelos to just 2 points in fourth quarter and to 12 points in first half. Boa Viagem dominated down low during the game scoring 42 of its points in the paint compared to Barcelos' 16. Boa Viagem forced 31 Barcelos turnovers and outrebounded them 36-22 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard Chevon Keith (178-86, college: W.Carolina) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds. The other American import guard Brandie Hoskins (175-85) contributed with 21 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Forward Ana Tendeiro (-82) replied with 8 points and 10 rebounds and Ana Marques (-83) added 4 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Barcelos. Boa Viagem maintains fourth position with 8-5 record. Barcelos at the other side keep the tenth place with 11 games lost. Boa Viagem's next round opponent will be Academico (#9) in Porto where they are favorite. Barcelos will play on the road against Uniao Micaelense in Ponta Delgada and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Barcelos: A.Tendeiro 8+10reb, F.Costa 5+2reb+1ast, A.Marques 4+5reb+1ast, H.Costa 4+3reb+2ast, J.Vilar 4+1reb, B.Anjos 0
Boa Viagem: B.Hoskins 21+9reb+3ast, C.Keith 20+15reb, C.Simoes 9+3reb+4ast, M.Pinheiro 9+4reb+2ast, V.Tavares 6+2reb, E.Furtado 3+1reb

Uniao Micaelense - Academico 24-60

Rather expected game in Ponta Delgada where 11th ranked Uniao Micaelense (1-12) was crushed by ninth ranked Academico (4-10) 60-24. The game without a history. Academico led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Uniao Micaelense to just 3 points in second quarter and to 9 points in first half. Academico held Uniao Micaelense to an opponent 13.3 percent shooting from the field compared to 42.6 percent accuracy of the winners. Academico outrebounded Uniao Micaelense 44-27 including a 33-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. American forward Lauren Gregory (185, college: Vanguard) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds. The other American import guard Jessica Richter (178, college: Vanguard) contributed with 6 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Academico's coach Eugenio Rodrigues felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American power forward Ree Browne (186-84, college: Cal.St.-Dominguez H.) replied with 9 points and 9 rebounds and Brazilian center Andrea Santos (-71) added 4 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Uniao Micaelense. Newly promoted Academico maintains ninth position with 4-10 record. Uniao Micaelense lost twelfth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 12 games lost. Academico's next round opponent will be higher ranked Boa Viagem (#4) in Angra Heroismo and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Uniao Micaelense will play at home against Barcelos (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Uniao Micaelense: R.Browne 9+9reb, A.Ferreira 4, A.Santos 4+8reb, C.Ribeiro 3+3reb+1ast, R.Flor 2+2reb, M.Teixeira 1+2reb+1ast
Academico: L.Gregory 15+11reb+1ast, M.Silva 11+3reb, A.Morais 9+4reb, J.Cruz 7+2reb, J.Richter 6+9reb+1ast, M.Leite 4+3reb

Quinta - Alges 52-55

A very close game took place in Carcavelos between Alges and Quinta. Sixth ranked Alges (7-6) got a very close victory on the road over 3rd ranked Quinta (10-2). Alges managed to escape with a 3-point win 55-52 on Saturday evening. Alges moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Olivais. Quinta at the other side keeps the third position with two games lost. Alges will play against CDTN (#7) in Torres Novas in the next round. Quinta will play at home against GDESSA (#8) in Barreiro and hopes to get back on the winning track.

CDTN - GDESSA 58-55

Another very close game took place in Torres Novas between CDTN and GDESSA. Seventh ranked CDTN (6-8) got a very close home victory over 8th ranked GDESSA (5-9). CDTN managed to escape with a 3-point win 58-55 in the game for the seventh place. Newly promoted CDTN maintains seventh position with 6-8 record. GDESSA lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with nine games lost. CDTN will meet at home higher ranked Alges (#5) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. GDESSA will play against Quinta in Carcavelos and hope to secure a win.

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SWEDEN - Women

Swedish Women U18 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Starting five

Asoro

Nystrom

Vesterberg

Kurt

Unger

Evelina Stromberg

Vasteras

Helena Kurt

165-G-93

Telge

Emma Unger

176-G-93

Louise Noaksson

173-G-93

Kvarnby

Abigail Asoro

177-F-93

Gabriella Frykbo

Sodertalje Sweden

Ida Christensen

173-F-93

Allis Nystrom

183-F-93

Agnes Mellstrom

182-F-94

Alvik Basket Sweden

Josefin Vesterberg

187-F-93

Ulrika Holmqvist

184-C-93

Telge

Mikaela Gustavsson

184-C-93

Telge

Mikael Johansson

Head Coach

Johanna Ericsson

Assistant

Kvarnby

Damligan Round 17: Leader Solna Vikings lose to Lulea BBK - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Solna Vikings (12-2) at the home court on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by Lulea BBK (12-2) 71-66. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 11-2 record before this meeting. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-13. But Solna Vikings won second period 21-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Solna Vikings outrebounded Lulea BBK 39-23 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American center Sabrina Scott (190-81, college: Colorado) who had a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds. International guard Frida Aili (179-88) chipped in 18 points. Lulea BBK's coach Dennis Pihl used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. The former international center Katarina Andersson (191-83) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds for the hosts. Lulea BBK have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They used an opportunity after Solna Vikings lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated Solna Vikings. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Umea Comets can celebrate finally their first win this season after 13 consecutive loses. The victory is especially important as they defeated much higher ranked Sallen (7-7) 80-68. orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds. Janett Perv contributed with 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Norwegian power forward Kristina Tattersdill (186-83) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 18 rebounds for Sallen. It was the only win of host team this round and in all other games visitors recorded victories. Umea Comets maintains twelfth place with 1-13 record. Sallen at the other side keeps the seventh position with seven games lost. Umea Comets will play against higher ranked Visby Ladies (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sallen will play against Marbo Basket (#5) in Kinna and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Umea - Sallen 80-68

Umea Comets can celebrate finally their first win this season after 13 consecutive loses. The victory is especially important as they defeated much higher ranked Sallen (7-7) 80-68. The game was mostly controlled by Umea Comets. Sallen managed to win third quarter 16-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Umea Comets had a 33-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds. Estonian guard Janett Perv (177-91) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Norwegian power forward Kristina Tattersdill (186-83) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 18 rebounds and guard Felicia Nekmouche (175-83, college: Bradley) added 15 points in the effort for Sallen. Four Sallen players scored in double figures. It was the only win of host team this round and in all other games visitors recorded victories. Umea Comets maintains twelfth place with 1-13 record. Sallen at the other side keeps the seventh position with seven games lost. Umea Comets will play against higher ranked Visby Ladies (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sallen will play against Marbo Basket (#5) in Kinna and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Umea: P.Rosanio 16+4reb+3ast, M.Gardler 13+13reb+2ast, J.Perv 12+10reb+2ast, I.Aasa 9, C.Sigefelt 7, J.Hamre 7+2reb+2ast
Sallen: K.Tattersdill 16+18reb+2ast, F.Nekmouche 15+3reb+2ast, Y.Ararya 13+2reb+2ast, J.Alexandersson 12+2reb+1ast, M.Hagglund 6+3reb, S.Hansson 2+3reb

Solna Vikings - Lulea BBK 66-71

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Solna Vikings (12-2) at the home court on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by Lulea BBK (12-2) 71-66. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 11-2 record before this meeting. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-13. But Solna Vikings won second period 21-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Solna Vikings outrebounded Lulea BBK 39-23 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American center Sabrina Scott (190-81, college: Colorado) who had a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds. International guard Frida Aili (179-88) chipped in 18 points. Lulea BBK's coach Dennis Pihl used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. The former international center Katarina Andersson (191-83) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds and American guard Eureka Brooks (170-86, college: Florida) added 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the hosts. Lulea BBK have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They used an opportunity after Solna Vikings lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated Solna Vikings. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Lulea BBK: F.Aili 18+1reb+3ast, S.Scott 12+10reb+2ast, S.Nilsson 9+1reb+1ast, E.Soederstroem 9+4reb, J.Olheim 8+2reb+3ast, E.Nilsson 5+1reb+2ast
Solna Vikings: K.Andersson 19+11reb, E.Brooks 16+6reb+5ast, C.Bacon 10+15reb, J.Nilsson 6+1reb+1ast, M.Gultekin 5, K.Mindell Kidanu 5+2reb+3ast

Swedish Women U16 National Team 2011 - by Greg

Sofia Svensson

175-G/F-95

Michaela Borg

179-F-95

Alice Jernberg

181-F-95

Natalie Kvarnstrom

171-G-95

Cassandra Martinson

175-G-95

Jelena Jakovljevic

175-G/F-95

Ebba Stenman

180-F-95

Elin Johansson

183-F-95

Emelie Dalen

183-F/C-84

Cecilia Israelsson

189-C-95

184-F/C-95

183-F-95

Head Coach

Assistant

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TURKEY - Women

Larkins' double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old forward Erlana Larkins (185-F-86, agency: 540 Sports) put on an amazing game in the last round for Mersin BSH Bld and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 11.
She had a double-double of 21 points and 11 rebounds, while her team edged out Istanbul Univ. (#10, 3-8) 72-68. Mersin maintains the 8th position in Turkish TKBL. Mersin 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 5-6 record. It's Larkins' second year at Mersin and it's hard to imagine this team without her. University of North Carolina graduate has very impressive stats this year. Larkins is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 8.6rpg) and averages solid 52.3% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Jolene Anderson (173-G-86) of Botasspor Adana. She is American guard in her first season at Botas. In the last game Anderson recorded impressive double-double of 32 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Botas lost that game 83-89 to the higher-ranked Fenerbahce (#1, 10-1). This loss caused Botas to drop to 6th position in the standings. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-5 record is not bad and everything may still change. Anderson is a newcomer at Botas and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 23.3ppg (#1). She also registered 8.2 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Julie McBride (165-G-82) of Ceyhan Bld (#9). McBride showcased her all-around game by recording 27 points, six rebounds and seven assists in the last round. She was a key player of Ceyhan Bld, leading her team to a 84-72 win against slightly lower-ranked Alanya BLD (#11, 2-9). The chances of Ceyhan Bld 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 four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, McBride could try to bring Ceyhan Bld's a little bit higher in the standings. McBride has individually a great season in Turkey. After only 7 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 5.9apg (best passer).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Aisha Mohammed (191-C-85) of Ceyhan Bld - 18 points and 10 rebounds
5. Nevriye Yilmaz (195-C-80) of Fenerbahce - 22 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Allyson Hardy (170-G-83) of Burhaniye Bld - 28 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Whitney Boddie (175-G-87) of Botas - 25 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Tatum Brown (193-C-78) of Samsun - 19 points and 16 rebounds
9. Scholanda Robinson (178-G-83) of Mersin - 19 points and 4 rebounds
10. Plenette Pierson (188-F/C-81) of Tarsus Bld - 15 points and 11 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)

Fenerbahce terminate Taurasi contract - by Szilveszter Nagy
Diana Taurasi (182-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) has parted ways with Fenerbahce following an announcement by the Turkish Basketball Federation about the American star's positive doping test.

Taurasi, who has been an outstanding player at Fenerbahce this season and fresh off her world title win with the United States at the FIBA World Championship for Women in the Czech Republic, tested positive for a banned substance after a domestic league game on November 13.

The federation (TBF) announced on their website on Thursday afternoon: '13 November 2010, after the game Fenerbahce against Istanbul, there was a routine doping control. Diana Taurasi had in her urine, Modafinil, which is a forbidden substance by WADA .

'And then she asked for the second test which was analyzed by Hacettepe University Doping Contol Center and the report results were sent to Turkey Basketball Federation.

'In the report, it says that the forbidden substances which were found in the test A were also found in test B.'

Following the statement by the TBF, Fenerbahce announced on their website late Thursday afternoon that Taurasi's contract had been terminated.

Fener are 8-0 in Group B of the EuroLeague Women and remain one of the best teams in the competition, even without Taurasi - the MVP of the last two EuroLeague Women Final Fours when she played with Sparta&K M.R. Vidnoje.

The club, even before the announcement on the doping test, had signed Taurasi's USA teammate Angel McCoughtry on a transfer from MKB Euroleasing Sopron.

The MVPs of the last two FIBA World Championships for Women, Penny Taylor of Australia and Hana Horakova of the Czech Republic, were already on the books of Fenerbahce along with many of Turkey's national team players, and Serbian center Ivana Matovic.

Before Thursday's announcements, Fener coach Laszlo Ratgeber said to Basketball World News: 'Now we have to do something from the beginning. Okay, not from zero, but it's not the same ...

'It will be a new chemistry, and that's the most difficult part. We will see.'

Ratgeber had coached Taurasi at Sparta&K and knows the American well.

'It's not only a big loss for Fener,' he said.

'This is a big loss for the whole basketball world.'