Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/6/2011

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Men News

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ABA

Negotiations underway between the Aces and JR Rider - by Gianni Pascucci
This is an official commincation received yesterday by Usbasket.com from LV Aces staff: The Las Vegas Aces gear up for a winning season with an 'A' list roster. Negotiations are underway with Isaiah Isaiah J.R. Rider (6'5''-G-71, college: UNLV), former NBA slam dunk champion, and 2001 NBA Championship Los Angeles Laker. JR is ready to make a serious comeback. Basketball fans young and old can expect Lights,Camera, Action this season in the sin city !

Whirlwinds transactions announced - by Gianni Pascucci
The West Texas Whirlwinds are pleased to announce the signing of two local stars in the West Texas area: John Amron Washington (G) and Jamel Guyton (6'3''-G-88, college: Louisiana Tech). The team is trying to build a strong team for the upcoming 2011-12 season, key returning players for the Whirlwinds are Tim Carter (7'0''-C-86), Nedrie Simmons (5'9''-G, college: Texas-PB), John Hollman (6'3''-G-84, college: Langston), Ira Cross (6'6''-F/C-84, college: E.New Mexico), two time ABA All-star Marlo Saunders (6'5''-F-84, college: Texas-PB), Frankie Wheeler (6'8''-G/F, college: Harris-Stowe St.) and Wyshawn Wade (6'3''-G-83, college: Orange CC). The team is still looking to add a couple of missing pieces to the roster, while is gearing up for our pre-season game Oct 15 vs The Texas Fuel.

Cheetahs name head coach - by Gianni Pascucci
The ABA Carolina Cheetahs are pleased to announce the hiring of Tim Wells as the new head basketball coach. Tim was employed last season as Head Coach at KK Triland, a professional basketball team in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Wells led the Triland team to an undefeated regular season record (10-0) and was named League Coach of the Year after coming back to the triad area with the Championship.
Tommy Stevenson , Owner and President of Basketball Operations for the Carolina CATS Sports and Entertainment Group, the parent organization for The Carolina Cheetahs said, We are extremely fortunate to get Tim Wells as our coach. He is such an impressive young man that any program would welcome with open arms. He was chosen over some very high profile seasoned coaches that interviewed for our vacancy. His attention to detail and presentation was off the chart. It was as if he was interviewing for a CEO of a major corporation.
The Cheetahs will hold 3-Day Training Camp at University of North Carolina at Greensboro in the Gate City from October 7 to 9.
The Cheetahs are one of three teams that are beginning their inaugural season in North Carolina all under the Carolina Cats Sports and Entertainment Group. The other two teams, the Carolina Jaguars and the Carolina Cougars are located in Durham, N.C. and Rocky Mount, N.C.
For more information about the Carolina Cheetahs, including news, video, players, and game schedules, please visit www.carolinacheetahs.com to connect, share and buy tickets online.

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Hemofarm signs Aleksej Nesovic - by Eurobasket News
Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Hemofarm. The 26-year-old guard signed a deal for the next season. He played the last one for Buducnost Pogdorica helping them to win the Montenegrin league title and National Cup. Nesovic also appeared 15 times in Adriatic league with Buducnost averaging 5.6 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists. They reached Semifinals. Aleksej Nesovic already was a member of Hemofarm and it was in 2006/07 season. Actually, he joined them in December and helped to reached Adriatic league and Serbian league Semis. Nesovic also has experience from Borac Cacak, Aliaga, Olimpija, Prokom, Fuenlabrada, Crvena Zvezda etc. He is active member of the Bosnian National Team since 2007. Nesovic appeared once at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.

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ARGENTINA

Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings

North
1. Quimsa		3-1
2. Regatas C.		3-1
3. Atenas		3-1
4. Sionista		3-1
5. Libertad S.		2-2
6. Olimpico LB		1-3
7. La Union		1-3
8. San Mart.C.		0-4
South
1. Boca Jrs		3-0
2. Wuber-Est.Bahia		3-1
3. Obras		3-2
4. GECR Indalo		2-2
5. Penarol		2-2
6. Club 9		1-3
7. Lanus		1-3
8. Quilmes MP		1-3

Standings - TNA

TNA Standings

North
1. Alvear		2-0
2. Obera TC		2-0
3. Union Progr.		1-0
4. Union Sunch		1-1
5. A.Italiana		1-1
6. Estudian.Con.		1-1
7. A.Espanola		0-1
8. San Isidro		0-1
9. Tomas Rocam.		0-1
10. Atl.Echague		0-2
South
1. Alianza Viedma		2-0
2. Argentino		2-0
3. Bragado		2-0
4. MH Basket		2-0
5. Banda Norte		1-0
6. Huracan		1-1
7. San Mart.MJ		0-1
8. Ciclista		0-2
9. Firmat SF		0-2
10. Rosario Cent.		0-2
11. Sport Club		0-2

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AUSTRALIA

Kirk Penney shines in pre-season - by Eurobasket News
Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) is already in great shape. The experienced scorer signed a deal with Spanish team Fuenlabrada during the summer and it is already clear he will be one of their best players this season. In the latest team game Penney exploded with 28 points. They lost it in thriller against Estudiantes, 68-70. Kirk Penney won the Australian NBL title last season with his New Zealand Breakers. He shined with 20 ppg, 4 rpg and 2.3 rpg for 29 games. Penney was second scorer of the competition and was named Australiabasket.com All-Australian NBL Guard of the Year -11. He was the top-scorer of NBL in 2009 and 2010 as well. All four years Penney played for the Breakers. In 2009/10, he spent some time also in NBA D-Legaue.

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Vallo ALLINGU
  Tartu U.
  (206-C-78)
  Avg: 21

1. Allingu, Tartu U.	21.0
2. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	15.0
3. Blaus, Ventspils	14.0
4. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	13.0
5. Janavicius, Baltai	13.0
6. Eichfuss, Tartu U.	12.0
7. Andriukaitis, Liep.	12.0
8. Timma, Liepaja	11.0
9. Willard, Ventspils	11.0
10. Lipkevicius, Balt.	10.5

Rebounds Per Game

Augustinas VITAS
  Liepaja
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 9

1. Vitas, Liepaja	9.0
2. Berzins, Ventspils	8.0
3. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	7.0
4. Allingu, Tartu U.	7.0
5. Lipkevicius, Balta.	6.0
6. Blaus, Ventspils	6.0
7. Vene, Baltai Kaun.	5.5
8. Raadik, Tartu Ulik.	5.0
9. Kupsas, Baltai K.	5.0
10. Eichfuss, Tartu U.	5.0

Assists Per Game

Josh MAYO
  Liepaja
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 4

1. Mayo, Liepaja	4.0
2. Doronin, Tartu U.	4.0
3. Young, Ventspils	3.0
4. Janavicius, Baltai	3.0
5. Berzins, Ventspils	3.0
6. Lejasmeiers, Vents.	3.0
7. Saage, Tartu Uliko.	3.0
8. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	2.0
9. Jakovics, Liepaja	2.0
10. Strelnieks, Vents.	2.0

Steals Per Game

Lauris BLAUS
  Ventspils
  (204-C-90)
  Avg: 3

1. Blaus, Ventspils	3.0
2. Cizauskas, Baltai	2.5
3. Laksa, Ventspils	2.0
4. Janavicius, Baltai	2.0
5. Timma, Liepaja	2.0
6. Vene, Baltai Kaun.	1.5
7. Lipkevicius, Balta.	1.5
8. Andriukaitis, Liep.	1.0
9. Lejasmeiers, Vents.	1.0
10. Meiers, Ventspils	1.0

Blocks Per Game

Arturs STRELNIEKS
  Ventspils
  (196-G/F-85)
  Avg: 1

1. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	1.0
2. Timma, Liepaja	1.0
3. Allingu, Tartu U.	1.0
4. Doronin, Tartu U.	1.0
5. Hicks, Liepaja	1.0
6. Vitas, Liepaja	1.0
7. Meiers, Ventspils	1.0
8. Delas, Baltai Kaun.	0.5
9. Zyle, Baltai Kaunas	0.5
10. Gray, Ventspils	0.0

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Elite Division
1. Tartu Ulikool			1-0
2. Ventspils			1-0
3. Rudupis			1-0
4. Baltai Kaunas			1-1
5. Siauliai			0-0
6. Pieno Zvaigzdes			0-0
7. Juventus			0-0
8. Triumph			0-0
9. Kalev/Cramo			0-1
10. Kedainiai			0-1
11. Liepaja			0-1
Challenge Cup
Group A
1. Jelgava			0-0
2. Neptunas			0-0
3. Tarvas			0-0
4. Naglis Palangos			0-0
5. Barsy Atyrau			0-0
Group B
1. Turiba			0-0
2. Rapla			0-0
3. TTU/Kalev			0-0
4. Valmiera			0-0
5. Techasas			0-0
6. Sakalai			0-0

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BELGIUM

Telenet Oostende clinched EuroCup birth - by Eurobasket News
Telenet Oostende- Norrkoping Dolphins 70:67

Telenet Oostende clinched EuroCup Regular Season birth as they won again over Norrkoping Dolphins. The Belgian team needed 70:67 victory to total for 17-point advantage after two games.
Oostende had 16-point victory in Sweden in the first leg and did not mind starting in their tempo. The first quarter brought the hosts 22-18 and they also added 21-17 in the second period. The Scandinavian team replied with 19-8 as Mitchell gave his side 54:51 after thirty minutes. Povilas Sakinis (199-F-80) increased to 57:51, but the host did not allow the spectators to leave the court upset. After 19-13 in the last frame the board showed 70:67 win for the Belgian squad.
Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Purdue) paced all the winners with 14 points, while Dusan Sakota (208-PF-86, agency: Beo Basket)ta scored 11. Jason Rich (191-G-86) and Veselin Petrovic (196-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket) followed them with 9 points apiece. Oladapo Ayuba (198-F-86, college: UMKC) collected 18 points and 10 rebounds in defeat and Povilas Sakinis notched 17.

Telenet Oostende: Christopher Booker 14, Dusan Sakotata 11, Jason Rich 9, Veselin Petrovic 9
Norrkoping Dolphins: Oladapo Ayuba 18+10 rebs, Povilas Sakinis 17

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BOSNIA

Dino Repesa joins Capljina at the end - by Eurobasket News
Dino Repesa (200-F-92) finally made a decision where he will play next season. The Croatian forward signed a deal with Bosnian squad Capljina. He spent this pre-season wit Dubrovnik. Repesa was a member of Benetton Treviso in 2010/11, but mostly played for their junior team. He helped them win junior league title in Italy. Actually, Repesa was MVP of the Final Tournament. Before Benetton, he played for Zrinjevac Zagreb. Dino Repesa played for U19 Croatian NT this summer. He had 1.2 ppg for 5 games at the World Championships U19 in Latvia. Last year, Repesa played for U18 Croatia and before that he also was a member of U16 NT. Dino is a son of Croatian well respected coach Jasmin Repesa.

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BULGARIA

Division A Standings

1. Academik BL		0-0
2. Academik PL		0-0
3. Balkan 2		0-0
4. Beroe		0-0
5. Chavdar		0-0
6. Cherno More U18		0-0
7. Dunav 2007		0-0
8. Overgas		0-0
9. Shumen		0-0
10. Vidabasket		0-0

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CANADA

Lightning to hold camp at downtown YMCA - by Eurobasket News
With half of the Canadian contingent having London connections, the city's fledgling National Basketball League of Canada team is set to open training camp Thursday at the downtown YMCA.

South grad Pat Sewell, a guard-forward who starred at Fanshawe College, and former Western Mustangs guard Matt Curtis of Hamilton are among the four Canadians trying out for two of the non-import spots in the roster as mandated by league rules. They'll be joined by former Windsor Lancers forward Isaac Kuon and former Winnipeg Wesmen guard Nick Lother.

From Thursday through Oct. 13, the team will practise daily at the Y from 6-8 a.m. and 1:30-3:15 p.m., although sessions will not be open to the public. However, fans will get a chance to see the players in action and meet with them after an intrasquad game Oct. 12 at Fanshawe, which has a 7:30 p.m. tipoff.

Players will still be vying for a spot on head coach Michael Ray Richardson's final roster, which will be trimmed to its 12-player limit the following day. The Lightning open their preseason schedule Oct. 23 against Oshawa and start the regular season at home to Halifax Nov. 3 at the John Labatt Centre at 7 p.m.

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com

Jamario Moon joins NBL's Quebec Kebs - by Eurobasket News
Former Toronto Raptor Jamario Moon (6'8''-F-80, college: Meridian CC) is working with the Quebec Kebs of the National Basketball League.

'To confirm, at this point Jamario Moon will join the Kebs at vet camp to practice with the team, stay in shape, and assist Coach (Robert) Spon,' the league tweeted on Tuesday.

Moon is available to work with the Kebs because the NBA players' association has been locked out by the league's owners as part of an ongoing labour dispute.

Jamario Moon finished last season with the Los Angeles Clippers. He joined them in February averaging 3.5 points and 2.5 rebounds in 19 games. Before the Clippers he had 4.7 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 40 games with Cleveland Cavs. Moon played for the Cavs also in 2009/10 season. From 2007 to 2009, he played for Toronto Raptors and later spent some time with Miami Heat. In 2007/08, Moon registered 8.5 ppg and 6.2 rpg for 78 games with Toronto. In the past, Jamario Moon played in USBL, CBA and NBA D-League.

Quebec Kebs land Dontell Jefferson - by Eurobasket News
Quebec Kebs bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Dontell Jefferson (196-G-83, college: Arkansas). The guard started the previous season in the Utah Flash. He tallied 6.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.0 steal per D-League game. In December Dontell Jefferson moved to the Idaho Stampede. His stats read 10.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.4 steals per appearance. Previously Dontell Jefferson had stints in the NBA, D-League and Latvia. The guard was named into All-D-League 3rd Team in 2009. He also participated at 2010 D-League All-Star Game. The Kebs are scheduled to start their NBL Canada campaign on October 29 against the Moncton Miracles.

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CHILE

Standings - DIMAYOR

Liga Standings

North
1. Boston Coll.		2-0
2. Los Leones		2-0
3. Puente Alto		2-0
4. Sportiva Italiana		1-1
5. San Juan		1-1
6. Stadio Italiano		1-1
7. Providencia		1-1
8. Sagrados		0-2
9. Palestino		0-2
10. Sabuesos		0-2
South
1. Dep.Castro		2-0
2. Dep.Valdivia		2-0
3. Osorno Basq.		2-0
4. Aleman		1-1
5. Dep.Ancud		1-1
6. Dep.Pucon		0-2
7. Las Animas		0-2
8. Temuco Basket		0-2

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COLOMBIA

Standings

Copa Federacion Standings

1. Orgullo Paisa		7-2
2. Patriotas		6-3
3. Guerreros		6-4
4. Bucaros		5-4
5. Cucuta Norte		5-6
6. Caribbean Heat		2-7
7. InderValle		2-7

FEDERATION CUP 2011, DAY 12 RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Orgullo Paisa got another good victory in the day 12 of the 2011 Federation Cup, now with its roster ready the team defeated Caribbean Heat in Medellin and rise its record to 8-2 and is first in the standings.
Orgullo Paisa 102
Caribbean Heat 84

Cucuta Norte blasted the Patriotas in Cucuta, the Patriotas that lost Miller and Lycht , both players leaves the team, had many problems in the paint and it was the key for Cucuta the control of the boards of Graterol and Nolan, plus a great game of Eleuterio Renteria.
Cucuta Norte 107 E. Renteria 30 Pts, W. Graterol 18 pts, N. Nolan 18 pts.
Patriotas 76

Indervalle is getting better, and in the second game the help of Camontae Griffin and the talent of Gerson Garrincha Pena were enough to defeat the powerful Bucaros, beyond the defeat the result is surprising, but Guillermo Moreno did again the job reading the mistakes in the first game and changing for the second, Bucaros is now 5th in the standings with a 4-4 record, while Indervalle reaches its third win in the season, and got a better look for the remainder of the Cup.
Indervalle 107 C. Griffin 31, G. Pena 30.
Bucaros 85

MILLER AND LYTCH LEAVES PATRIOTAS - by Victor Garcia
According some sources close to the team the two Americans that fills the power forward and center spots in the Patriotas, Nakiea Miller and Kavon Lytch leave the team after a delay in the payment.
The information is not confirmed yet for the team officers, but Miller and Lytch did no played the last night defeat against Cucuta, both players were very important in the Patriotas good start of the Cup.

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CROATIA

CYPRUS

NBA Lockout - Transfer Update - by Nima Siar
With the looming NBA lockout and games about to be canceled if no deal is reached by Monday 10/10, many players are signing with teams throughout Europe. Most teams are allowing these players to return to their respective NBA teams if the lockout ends however in China, for example, many big name players have signed but the Chinese basketball governing body is not allowing 'opt-out' contracts so players can return to the NBA. Check out the list of some of the NBA players who have signed internationally and the teams which they will be suiting up for this season:

LaVoy Allen
Philadelphia
Strasbourg (France)

David Andersen
New Orleans
Montepaschi Siena (Italy)

Hilton Armstrong
Atlanta
ASVEL Villeurbanne (France)

Leandro Barbosa
Toronto
Flamengo (Brazil)

Nicolas Batum
Portland
Nancy (France)

Keith Benson
Atlanta
Dinamo Sassari (Italy)

DeJuan Blair
San Antonio
Samara (Russia)

Craig Brackins
Philadelphia
Maccabi Ashdod (Israel)

Wilson Chandler
Denver
Zhejiang Guangsha (China)

Austin Daye
Detroit
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Boris Diaw
Charlotte
JSA Bordeaux (France)

Jon Diebler (198-G-88, college: Ohio St.)
Portland
Panionios (Greece)

Joey Dorsey
Toronto
Baskonia (Spain)

Chris Douglas-Roberts
Milwaukee
Virtus Bologna (Italy)

Semih Erden
Cleveland
Besiktas (Turkey)

Rudy Fernandez
Dallas
Real Madrid (Spain)

Jordan Farmar
New Jersey
Maccabi Tel-Aviv (Israel)

Dan Gadzuric
New Jersey
Jiangsu (China)

Sundiata Gaines
New Jersey
Armia (Georgia)

Danilo Gallinari
Denver
Olimpia Milano (Italy)

Alonzo Gee
Cleveland
Prokom Trefl Sopot (Poland)

Danny Green
San Antonio
Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Justin Harper
Orlando
Strasbourg (France)

Pooh Jeter
Sacramento
Joventut Badalona (Spain)

Ersan Ilyasova
Milwaukee
Anadolu Efes (Turkey)

Andrei Kirilenko
Utah
CSKA Moscow (Russia)

Nenad Krstic
Boston
CSKA Moscow (Russia)

Acie Law
Golden State
Partizan Belgrade (Serbia)

Gani Lawal
Phoenix
Zastal (Poland)

Ty Lawson
Denver
Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania)

Jon Leuer
Milwaukee
Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany)

Kenyon Martin
Denver
Xinjiang Flying Tigers (China)

Patrick Mills
Portland
Melbourne Tigers (Australia)

E'Twaun Moore
Boston
Benetton Treviso (Italy)

Timofey Mozgov
Denver
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Byron Mullens (213-C-89, college: Ohio St.)
Oklahoma City
Panionios (Greece)

Mehmet Okur
Utah
Turk Telekom (Turkey)

Chandler Parsons
Houston
Cholet (France)

Nikola Pekovic
Minnesota
Partizan Belgrade (Serbia)

Josh Powell
Atlanta
Liaoning Panpan (China)

Chris Quinn
San Antonio
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Brian Scalabrine
Chicago
Benetton Treviso (Italy)

Kevin Seraphin
Washington
Caja Laboral (Spain)

Mustafa Shakur
Washington
Pau Orthez (France)

Kyle Singler
Detroit
Lucentum Alicante (Spain)

JR Smith
Denver
Zhejiang Lions (China)

Darius Songaila
Philadelphia
Galatasaray (Turkey)

DaJuan Summers
Detroit
Montepaschi Siena (Italy)

Pape Sy
Atlanta
Gravelines (France)

Garrett Temple
Charlotte
Casale (Italy)

Ben Uzoh
New Jersey
Lokomotiv Kuban (Russia)

Robert Vaden
Oklahoma City
BK Nitra (Slovakia)

Nikola Vucevic
Philadelphia
Buducnost (Montenegro)

Sasha Vujacic
New Jersey
Anadolu Efes (Turkey)

Von Wafer
Boston
Cremona (Italy)

Sonny Weems
Toronto
Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania)

Mario West
New Jersey
Tezenis Verona (Italy)

Deron Williams
New Jersey
Besiktas (Turkey)

Reggie Williams
Golden State
Caja Laboral (Spain)

Standings - Division A

Division A Standings

1. Achilleas		0-0
2. AEK		0-0
3. AEL		0-0
4. APOEL		0-0
5. Apollon		0-0
6. ENAD		0-0
7. Etha		0-0
8. Keravnos		0-0
9. Omonia		0-0

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. BK Decin		3-0
2. BC Kolin		2-0
3. BK Prostejov		2-0
4. BK Pardubice		2-1
5. NH Ostrava		2-1
6. USK Praha		2-1
7. Chomutov		1-1
8. CEZ Nymburk		1-1
9. Svitavy		1-1
10. Plzen		1-2
11. Usti n/Labem		1-2
12. Levice		1-3
13. B&W Opava		0-3
14. Inter Bratislava		0-3

Lukoil Academik reach EuroCup regular season after road win in Prostejov - by Eurobasket News
Prostejov - Lukoil Academik 77:87

Lukoil Academik will play at the EuroCup regular season. They defeated Prostejov on the road to seal their next round appearance.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening frame. Lukoil eked out a 19:16 advantage after ten minutes of action. Lamont Mack (201-F-87, college: Charlotte) and Stojanovski drained triples throughout the second term to keep the visitors in front. However Pandula capped the half with a three-pointer and Prostejov earned a 39:38 lead. The hosts opened a four-point lead early in the third term 46:42. But the Bulgarian team answered with a 19:3 run to take a 61:49 advantage. Lukoil entered the fourth quarter up by 17 points 70:53. Prostejov went on a desperate comeback rally in the fourth quarter. They cut the deficit to just 7 points but Lukoil stayed confident and rallied to the victory at the end. Andre Owens (193-G-80, college: Houston) posted 17 points to pace Lukoil. Lamont Mack added 15 points, while Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) contributed 13 points for the winners. Arvydas Eitutavicius (188-G-82, college: American) answered with 14 points for Lukoil Academik. Matej Venta (187-G-84) and Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) netted 11 points each in the loss.

Prostejov: Arvydas Eitutavicius 14, Matej Venta 11, Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson 11
Lukoil: Andre Owens 17, Lamont Mack 15, Brandon Heath 13

NBL Round 3: BK Decin keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
This is still too early stage of the Regular Season in NBL and we should expect many changes in upcoming rounds.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked BK Decin as it allowed them to take a leadership position. BK Decin smashed 4th placed CEZ Nymburk at home 75-48. The game without a history. BK Decin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a good game for international forward Pavel Houska (201-84) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Lubos Stria (197-81) contributed with 10 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. The former international forward Ladislav Sokolovsky (200-77) answered with 10 points and 7 rebounds for CEZ Nymburk. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. BK Decin have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Defending champion CEZ Nymburk dropped to the seventh place with one game lost. They share the position with Chomutov and Svitavy. CEZ Nymburk will play next round against B&W Opava trying to get back on the winning streak. BK Decin will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Levharti Chomutov on the road.
Undefeated Basketbal Svitavy (1-1) recorded its first loss on the court of eleventh ranked Levharti Chomutov. Visitors were rolled over by Levharti Chomutov 105-83. It was a great evening for power forward Pavel Stanek (203-76, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory scoring 30 points and 8 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Rob Lowery helped adding 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Ravone George (193-83, college: Alabama) with 16 points and 4 assists. 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. Levharti Chomutov left bottom position moving up to seventh place, which they share with CEZ Nymburk and Svitavy. Levharti Chomutov will play against league's leader BK Decin at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Basketbal Svitavy will play against Inter Bratislava (#14) to get more than just one victory in their record.
An interesting game was also a 41-point tough home defeat of 8th ranked BK Loko Plzen in a game versus BK Pardubice (#5) 95-54. It was an exceptional evening for Marcus Arnold who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. Stepan Vrubl came up with 14 points and 4 assists for BK Loko Plzen in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. BK Pardubice (2-1) moved-up to fourth place, which they share with USK Praha and NH Ostrava. BK Loko Plzen at the other side dropped to the tenth position with two games lost. They share it with Usti n/Labem. BK Pardubice will meet league's second-placed BC Kolin on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BK Loko Plzen will play against USK Praha (#6).

There were no big surprises in other games of round 3: winless Inter Bratislava was beaten by Usti n/Labem on the road 93-82. Winless B&W Opava was destroyed by NH Ostrava on its own court 69-100. USK Praha managed to outperform Levice in a road game 80-74.
The most impressive performance of 3rd round was 24 points and 7 assists by Thaddeus McFadden of Usti n/Labem.

Usti n/Labem - Inter Bratislava 93-82

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourteenth ranked BK Usti nad Labem and bottom-ranked Inter Bratislava had identical 0-2 record. This time BK Usti nad Labem used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Bratislava 93-82 on Wednesday night. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 93-82. BK Usti nad Labem made 22-of-29 free shots (75.9 percent) during the game. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Thaddeus McFadden (188-87, college: Fairmont St., agency: Stanley International) who led the winners and scored 24 points and 7 assists (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!). His fellow American import guard Lekendric Longmire (196-87, college: Oregon) accounted for 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. American guard Curtis Allen (193-86, college: ORU) came up with 18 points and 7 rebounds and Bosnian center Stjepan Gavran (206-78) added 20 points (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) respectively for Inter Bratislava in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. BK Usti nad Labem (1-2) left bottom position moving up to tenth place, which they share with Plzen. It was Inter Bratislava's third loss in a row. They still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with B&W Opava. BK Usti nad Labem will meet higher ranked BK Prostejov (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Inter Bratislava will play against Basketbal Svitavy (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Inter Bratislava: S.Gavran 20, C.Allen 18+7reb, K.Beckles 12+4reb, K.Bridgewaters 12+2reb+4ast, A.Kuffa 8+3reb, J.Musil 6+1reb+1ast
Usti n/Labem: T.McFadden 24+2reb+7ast, L.Longmire 15+6reb, J.Tyrna 13+2reb, J.Holanda 10+1reb, V.Hejl 10+2reb+1ast, T.Hruby 9+4reb+1ast

BK Decin - CEZ Nymburk 75-48

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked BK Decin as it allowed them to take a leadership position. BK Decin smashed 4th placed CEZ Nymburk at home 75-48. The game without a history. BK Decin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a good game for international forward Pavel Houska (201-84) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Lubos Stria (197-81) contributed with 10 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four BK Decin players scored in double figures. The former international forward Ladislav Sokolovsky (200-77) answered with 10 points and 7 rebounds and international power forward Petr Benda (203-82, agency: Court Side) added 11 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for CEZ Nymburk. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. BK Decin have a solid series of three victories in a row. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Defending champion CEZ Nymburk dropped to the seventh place with one game lost. They share the position with Chomutov and Svitavy. CEZ Nymburk will play next round against B&W Opava trying to get back on the winning streak. BK Decin will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Levharti Chomutov on the road.
Top scorers:
CEZ Nymburk: P.Benda 11+8reb, L.Sokolovsky 10+7reb+2ast, M.Kremen 8+6reb+2ast, L.Wilson 8+6reb+2ast, T.Vyoral 4+1reb, L.Palyza 2+1reb+1ast
BK Decin: P.Houska 18+7reb+2ast, A.Alic 13+2reb+2ast, R.Landa 12+1reb, L.Stria 10+6reb+1ast, J.Houska 6+3reb+2ast, L.Sanders 5+4reb+6ast

Chomutov - Svitavy 105-83

Undefeated Basketbal Svitavy (1-1) recorded its first loss on the court of eleventh ranked Levharti Chomutov. Visitors were rolled over by Levharti Chomutov 105-83. The game was mostly controlled by Levharti Chomutov. Basketbal Svitavy was better in second period 32-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Levharti Chomutov made 27-of-35 charity shots (77.1 percent) during the game. Basketbal Svitavy was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for power forward Pavel Stanek (203-76, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory scoring 30 points and 8 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). American guard Rob Lowery (188-87, college: Dayton) helped adding 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Ravone George (193-83, college: Alabama) with 16 points and 4 assists and Congolese-French forward Boris Meno (203-83, college: Davidson) scored 10 points and 7 rebounds. Five Levharti Chomutov and four Basketbal Svitavy players scored in double figures. 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. Levharti Chomutov left bottom position moving up to seventh place, which they share with CEZ Nymburk and Svitavy. Levharti Chomutov will play against league's leader BK Decin at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Basketbal Svitavy will play against Inter Bratislava (#14) to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Svitavy: R.George 16+4reb+4ast, T.Macela 12+2reb, L.Horak 12+2reb, B.Meno 10+7reb, L.Sindelar 9+5reb+1ast, J.Spacek 9+1reb+3ast
Chomutov: P.Stanek 30+8reb, R.Lowery 26+5reb+4ast, J.Krakovic 12+7reb, D.Wright 11+3reb+9ast, Z.Hanzlik 10+5reb, J.Stepanek 6+1reb+1ast

B&W Opava - NH Ostrava 69-100

Very expected game when bottom-ranked B&W Opava (0-3) was smashed at home by seventh ranked NH Ostrava (2-1) 100-69 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by NH Ostrava. B&W Opava managed to win second period 26-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding B&W Opava to just 6 points in fourth quarter. NH Ostrava dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to B&W Opava's 44. They outrebounded B&W Opava 43-21 including a 33-16 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for American swingman Riley Luettgerodt (196-85, college: Hawaii, agency: I.D.S. Law) who led the winners and scored 23 points and 8 rebounds. Greek power forward Savvas Manousos (208-85) accounted for 17 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Luettgerodt is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four NH Ostrava players scored in double figures. NH Ostrava's coach felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Guard Radim Klecka (188-90) came up with 22 points and 4 steals and international guard Jakub Sirina (185-87) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively for B&W Opava in the defeat. NH Ostrava moved-up to fourth place, which they share with BK Pardubice and USK Praha. B&W Opava at the other side still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Inter Bratislava. NH Ostrava will meet at home Levice (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. B&W Opava will play against CEZ Nymburk and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
B&W Opava: R.Klecka 22+1reb+2ast, J.Blazek 12+3reb+2ast, J.Sirina 10+6reb+3ast, P.Strnisko 9+2reb, B.Brlit 7+4reb, M.Vanak 6+2reb
NH Ostrava: R.Luettgerodt 23+8reb+3ast, S.Manousos 17+6reb, J.Hughes 14+5reb+1ast, M.Stuchly 12+3reb+1ast, A.Ciz 8+6reb+3ast, L.Jurecka 7+1reb

Levice - USK Praha 74-80

The game between closely ranked teams ended with ninth ranked USK Praha's (2-1) road victory over 10th ranked Levice (1-3) 80-74 on Wednesday. Levice was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 28-18 charge of USK Praha, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for Slovakian center Peter Sedmak (207-85) who led the winners and scored 22 points. The former international center Stanislav Votroubek (212-81) accounted for 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. Four USK Praha players scored in double figures. American guard Keaton Grant (193-86, college: Purdue) came up with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists and the other American import forward Esian Henderson (203-86, college: Cent.Missouri) added 24 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Levice in the defeat. USK Praha moved-up to fourth place, which they share with BK Pardubice and NH Ostrava. Levice at the other side dropped to the twelfth position with three games lost. USK Praha will meet at home BK Loko Plzen (#10) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Levice will play against NH Ostrava.
Top scorers:
Levice: E.Henderson 24+8reb+2ast, K.Grant 18+11reb+5ast, M.Bernard 13+1reb+1ast, S.Stemberger 9+5reb+2ast, T.Kostomaj 5+5reb+5ast, A.Cervenka 3+5reb
USK Praha: P.Sedmak 22+3reb+1ast, M.Vocetka 13+2reb, V.Hruban 13+4reb+2ast, M.Soukup 12+3reb+6ast, S.Votroubek 12+10reb, M.Sotnar 8+2reb+5ast

Plzen - BK Pardubice 54-95

An interesting game was also a 41-point tough home defeat of 8th ranked BK Loko Plzen in a game versus BK Pardubice (#5) 95-54. The game without a history. BK Pardubice led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding BK Loko Plzen to just 6 points in first quarter. BK Pardubice dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to BK Loko Plzen's 34. It was an exceptional evening for American power forward Marcus Arnold (207-84, college: Illinois, agency: Stanley International) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. International forward Petr Bohacik (202-85) accounted for 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. Arnold is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five BK Pardubice players scored in double figures. The former international guard Stepan Vrubl (186-76) came up with 14 points and 4 assists and forward Ladislav Pecka (197-91) added 10 points respectively for BK Loko Plzen in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. BK Pardubice (2-1) moved-up to fourth place, which they share with USK Praha and NH Ostrava. BK Loko Plzen at the other side dropped to the tenth position with two games lost. They share it with Usti n/Labem. BK Pardubice will meet league's second-placed BC Kolin on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BK Loko Plzen will play against USK Praha (#6).
Top scorers:
Plzen: S.Vrubl 14+3reb+4ast, L.Pecka 10+4reb+1ast, F.Smid 9+5reb, M.Kozlik 8+5reb+2ast, L.Toth 3, J.Kovanda 3+2reb
BK Pardubice: M.Arnold 18+11reb, P.Bohacik 13+8reb+2ast, M.Hampton 13+1reb, C.Muirhead 12+6reb+1ast, O.Peterka 10+3reb+4ast, Z.Pospisil 9+1reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Rob LOWERY
  Chomutov
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 28

1. Lowery, Chomutov	28.0
2. Bridgewaters, Inte.	26.5
3. Wright, Chomutov	25.0
4. Pumprla, CEZ N.	23.0
5. Sedmak, USK Praha	20.3
6. Houska, BK Decin	19.5
7. Henderson, Levice	19.5
8. Klecka, B&W Opava	17.5
9. Peterson, BK Prost.	17.5
10. Meno, Svitavy	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Petr BENDA
  CEZ Nymburk
  (203-F/C-82)
  Avg: 12

1. Benda, CEZ Nymburk	12.0
2. Meno, Svitavy	11.0
3. Hruby, Usti n.	9.0
4. Houska, BK Decin	8.5
5. Votroubek, USK P.	8.3
6. Sokolovsky, CEZ N.	8.0
7. Field, BC Kolin	8.0
8. Hughes, NH Ostrava	8.0
9. Toth, Plzen	7.5
10. Luettgerodt, NH	7.5

Assists Per Game

Tomas MACELA
  Svitavy
  (179-PG-88)
  Avg: 7

1. Macela, Svitavy	7.0
2. Sotnar, USK Praha	6.3
3. Soukup, USK Praha	4.0
4. Smith, BK Prost.	4.0
5. Barnes, BC Kolin	3.5
6. Marko, BC Kolin	3.5
7. Ames, BC Kolin	3.0
8. Grant, Levice	3.0
9. Wright, Chomutov	3.0
10. Eitutavicius, BK	3.0

Steals Per Game

Radim KLECKA
  B&W Opava
  (188-G-90)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Klecka, B&W Opava	5.5
2. Pumprla, CEZ N.	4.0
3. Honomichl, Plzen	3.0
4. Lenzly, CEZ N.	3.0
5. Horak, Svitavy	3.0
6. Brlit, B&W Opava	2.5
7. Grant, Levice	2.3
8. Jelinek, BC Kolin	2.0
9. Longmire, Usti n.	2.0
10. Milos, Svitavy	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Bertengeh GADRI-NICHOLSON
  BK Prost.
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Gadri-N., BK Prost.	3.5
2. Kramny, Svitavy	3.0
3. Grant, Levice	1.8
4. Hughes, NH Ostrava	1.5
5. Pumprla, CEZ N.	1.0
6. George, Svitavy	1.0
7. Lawrence, CEZ N.	1.0
8. Benda, CEZ Nymburk	1.0
9. Sokolovsky, CEZ N.	1.0
10. Smith, BK Prost.	1.0

First win for SLUNETA Usti nad Labem - by Levy Nagy
SLUNETA Usti nad Labem got their first win this season playing at home. Perhaps this success was the effect of their local fans and the school band & orchestra in the stands. McFaden and Holanda formed a deadly combination of guards against a weaker Slovak team defense.

SLUNETA Usti nad Labem almost lost their starting shooting guard Jiri Holanda (183-PG-86) at the middle of the first quarter when he was hit hard but the referee didnt see the offensive foul against him; he was replaced with Alexandr Novak (190-G-87) who was inefficient for a few minutes. Holanda came back after 5 minutes and scored 10 points in total but he was a bit shaken for the reminder of the 1st half not being able to dish out any assists to his teammates. He fouled out 8 minutes in the 4th quarter. Thaddeus McFadden (188-G-87, agency: Stanley International, college: Fairmont St.) missed only two shots and scored 24 points had 7 assists and 3 steals. Lekendric Longmire (196-G-87, college: Oregon) was the second highest scorer (15 points, 6 rebounds, 1 block) for his team. Vladimir Hejl (198-F-81) hasn't missed at all and finished with 10 points.

BK Inter Bratislava has everything that needs to win but they seem to be out of luck, their losing streak is now at 3. They started the game very well shooting two long threes signed by Curtis Allen (193-G-86, college: ORU) and Kevin Bridgewaters (175-G-84, college: Chattanooga). The second one also had a great steal in the last seconds of the 1st quarter and finished on a fast break. They went back to back in the first quarter and finished 4 points ahead but then in the 2nd one fell behind by 10 points. Stjepan Gavran (206-C-78) was their highest scorer with 20 points.

Despite the fact this the game was between two teams with only losses this season, it was a very competitive and high scoring game. The final score SLUNETA Usti nad Labem - BK Inter Bratislava 93 - 82. The locals enjoyed every minute of it. The Slovak team has to start rethinking their strategy in order to get a win before it is too late.

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

D-LEAGUE

Leo Lyons, Lance Thomas return for Austin Toros 2011-12 season - by Eurobasket News
The Austin Toros today announced that forwards Leo Lyons (6'9''-F-87, college: Missouri) and Lance Thomas (6'8''-F-88, college: Duke) will be returning to the Toros for the 2011-12 season.

Lyons, 6'9 forward out of Missouri, started in 27 of the 34 games he appeared in for the Toros last season. He scored 48% of his shots while averaging 14.9 points per game and six rebounds. Lyons is known for his versatility on offense, making outside shots with ease and finishing at the basket with either hand.

Thomas, 6'8 forward out of Duke, started in all 46 games he appeared in last season averaging 12.8 points per game and 5.5 rebounds. Thomas was the starting forward on the Duke 2010 National Championship Team and is tenth on Duke's career offensive rebound leader board with 255 rebounds.

Both Thomas and Lyons have accepted invitations to attend the USA basketball team's Pan American Games training camp. With only twelve roster spots available, Thomas and Lyons look to make the most of training camp which is scheduled for Oct. 14-22. The Pan American games are being held in Guadalajara, Mexico from Oct. 26-30.

The Toros home opener is Friday, December 2nd at 8:00 p.m. against the Tulsa 66ers.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Marcus Landry gets deal in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Marcus Landry (6'7''-F-85, college: Wisconsin) will start this season in Spain. The American forward penned a short term deal with Assignia Manresa. He will replace injured Micah Downs, who will be out for at least eight weeks. Marcus Landry spent last season with Reno Bighorns. He appeared 53 times in NBA D-League averaging 17.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2 assists and 1.2 steals. Landry was named Gatorade All-D-League Honorable Mention -11 and played at D-League All-Star Game. The Bighorns reached Playoff Semifinals. Marcus Landry started 2009/10 season with the New York Knicks. He had 2.4 ppg and 1.1 rpg for 16 games with them. That same season he also spent some time with Maine Red Claws and Boston Celtics. Landry graduated at the University of Wisconsin two years ago.

21 Players Invited to USA Basketball Training Camp for Pan American Games - by Surujh Roopnarine
USA Basketball has invited 21 players to the USA Men's Pan American Games team training camp Oct. 14-22 in Tulsa, OK. All 21 players have signed contracts to play in the NBA D-League for the 2011-12 season. This early signing with the D-league helped ensure that they would have a chance to fight for one of the 12 spots on the 2011 Pan-Am Team.
Head Coach Nate Tibbits will choose from among the following 21 players as he looks to build a squad that will compete at the tournament which runs from October 26 30 in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Blake Ahearn (6'2''-G-84, college: Missouri St.) (Guard, Erie BayHawks)
Brian Butch (6'11''-F/C-84, college: Wisconsin) (Center, Injured for 2010-11 season)
Daniels Chris (6'11''-C-84) (C, KCC Egis, South Korea
Justin Dentmon (6'0''-G-85, college: Washington) (G, Texas Legends)
Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) (G, Tulsa 66ers)
Ehambe Moses Randall (6'6''-G/F-86, college: ORU) (F, Iowa Energy)
Anthony Goods (6'3''-G-87, college: Stanford) (G, Dakota Wizards)
Ron Howard (6'5''-G/F-82, college: Valparaiso) (Forward, Fort Wayne Mad Ants)
Marcus Lewis (6'8''-F/C-86, college: ORU) (F, Tulsa 66ers)
Leo Lyons (6'9''-F-87, college: Missouri) (F, Austin Toros)
Renaldo Major (6'7''-F-82, college: Fresno St.) (F, Dakota Wizards)
Anthony Mason (6'7''-F-87, college: St.John's), Jr. (G, Sioux Falls Skyforce)
Matt Rogers (6'11''-C-87, college: SW Baptist) (F/C, Texas Legends)
Walker Russell (6'0''-G-82, college: Jacksonville St.) (G, Ft. Wayne Mad Ants)
Donald Sloan (6'3''-G-88, college: Texas A&M) (G, Reno Bighorns)
Gregory Stiemsma (6'11''-C-85, college: Wisconsin) (C, Sokhumi Tbilisi, Georgia)
Curtis Sumpter (6'7''-F-84, college: Villanova) (F, Maroussi BC, Greece)
Lance Thomas (6'8''-F-88, college: Duke) (F, Austin Toros)
Curtis Withers (6'8''-F-84, college: Charlotte) (F, Angeles de Puebla, Mexico)
Chris Wright (6'8''-F-88) (F, University of Dayton '11)
Luke Zeller (6'11''-F/C-87, college: Notre Dame) (C, Bakersfield Jam)

The USA men were drawn into Group B for the Pan American Games and are joined by national teams from Brazil, Dominican Republic and Uruguay. Competing in Group A are Argentina, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The U.S. men open preliminary round play Oct. 26 facing Dominican Republic (5:30 p.m. CDT), then face defending Pan American Games champion Brazil on Oct. 27 (8 p.m. CDT), and conclude preliminary play versus Uruguay (5:30 p.m. CDT) on Oct. 28. Semifinals action will be played Oct. 29, and the finals will be contested on Oct. 30.

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

ESTONIA

Standings - KML

KML Standings

1. Parnu		1-0
2. Tartu Ulikool		1-0
3. TTU/Kalev		1-0
4. Kalev/Cramo		0-0
5. Tln Kalev		0-0
6. Rapla		0-1
7. Tarvas		0-1
8. Valga/CKE		0-1

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Illimar PILK
  TT.
  (195-F-88)
  Avg: 23

1. Pilk, TT.	23.0
2. Arnold, TT.	22.0
3. Raap, Parnu	18.0
4. Hallik, Tarvas	18.0
5. Cunda, Va.	17.0
6. Karner, Parnu	17.0
7. Raadik, Parnu	16.0
8. Cipruss, Tarvas	16.0
9. Veideman, Tartu U.	16.0
10. Soo, Rapla	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Taavi HAMARSALU
  Parnu
  (199-C/F-89)
  Avg: 12

1. Hamarsalu, Parnu	12.0
2. Ringmets, Rapla	11.0
3. Cunda, Va.	10.0
4. Cipruss, Tarvas	10.0
5. Kajupank, Rapla	10.0
6. Vasar, Va.	9.0
7. Adedeji, Va.	9.0
8. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	8.0
9. Kaja, TT.	7.0
10. Hallik, Tarvas	7.0

Assists Per Game

Rain VEIDEMAN
  Tartu U.
  (192-G-91)
  Avg: 5

1. Veideman, Tartu U.	5.0
2. Karner, Parnu	5.0
3. Dorbek, Tarvas	5.0
4. Doronin, Tartu U.	4.0
5. Kriisa, Tarvas	4.0
6. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	3.0
7. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool	3.0
8. Pilk, TT.	3.0
9. Cunda, Va.	3.0
10. Akenparg, TT.	2.0

Steals Per Game

Rain KARNER
  Parnu
  (186-PG-91)
  Avg: 7

1. Karner, Parnu	7.0
2. Veideman, Tartu U.	4.0
3. Dorbek, Tarvas	4.0
4. Eichfuss, Tartu U.	3.0
5. Cunda, Va.	3.0
6. Laane, Rapla	3.0
7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	2.0
8. Saage, Tartu Uliko.	2.0
9. Cricelli, Va.	2.0
10. Raadik, Parnu	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Bill AMIS
  Tartu Ulikool
  (205-F-87)
  Avg: 4

1. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	4.0
2. Voolaid, Parnu	3.0
3. Eichfuss, Tartu U.	2.0
4. Adedeji, Va.	2.0
5. Hallik, Tarvas	2.0
6. Raadik, Tartu Ulik.	1.0
7. Vares, Va.	1.0
8. Kriisa, Tarvas	1.0
9. Vasar, Va.	1.0
10. Raadik, Parnu	1.0

EUROCHALLENGE

Standings

EuroChallenge Standings

Group I
1. Spartak SP			5-1
2. Lukoil Academik			4-2
3. Maccabi Haifa			2-4
4. Elitzur Netanya			1-5
Group J
1. Krka			5-1
2. Karsiyaka			4-2
3. M.Hainaut			2-4
4. Antwerp			1-5
Group K
1. Gravelines			5-1
2. Ventspils			4-2
3. Norrkoping			2-4
4. Benfica			1-5
Group L
1. Oostende			5-1
2. Lokomotiv			4-2
3. BK Prostejov			2-4
4. Zadar			1-5

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

EUROCUP

Standings

Eurocup Standings

Group A
1. Benetton TV			0-0
2. Valencia			0-0
3. Aris			0-0
4. B.Muenchen			0-0
5. Hapoel J-M			0-0
6. GasTerra			0-0
7. Krka			0-0
8. Fraport SKY			0-0
9. Rudupis			0-0
10. Lokomotiv			0-0
Qualifying Round
1. Lukoil Academik			2-0
2. Gran Canaria			2-0
3. Oostende			2-0
4. Le Mans			2-0
5. Spartak SP			2-0
6. Azovmash			1-1
7. Cedevita			1-1
8. M.Hainaut			1-1
9. Besiktas			1-1
10. Chalon			1-1
11. Ventspils			1-1
12. Art.Dragons			0-2
13. Etha			0-2
14. Norrkoping			0-2
15. Karsiyaka			0-2
16. BK Prostejov			0-2

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jamar SMITH
  BK Prost.
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 22

1. Smith, BK Prost.	22.0
2. Kemp, Besiktas	21.0
3. Young, Ventspils	21.0
4. Minard, Azovmash	20.0
5. Schilb, Chalon	17.5
6. Beverley, Spart.	17.5
7. Chatman, Karsiyaka	17.0
8. Mack, Lukoil Acade.	17.0
9. Rochestie, Le Mans	16.0
10. Ewing, Azovmash	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Sam WILLARD
  Ventspils
  (205-F-)
  Avg: 10

1. Willard, Ventspils	10.0
2. Peterson, BK Prost.	10.0
3. Gadri-N., BK Prost.	9.0
4. Dagli, Besiktas	8.0
5. Chatman, Karsiyaka	7.5
6. Karaman, Karsiyaka	7.5
7. Carter, M.Hainaut	7.5
8. Rancik, Azovmash	7.0
9. Banev, Lukoil A.	7.0
10. Rey, Gran Canaria	7.0

Assists Per Game

Taylor ROCHESTIE
  Le Mans
  (185-PG-85)
  Avg: 8

1. Rochestie, Le Mans	8.0
2. Williams, Besiktas	8.0
3. Draper, Cedevita	6.5
4. Chatman, Karsiyaka	5.5
5. Heath, Lukoil A.	5.0
6. Eitutavicius, BK P.	5.0
7. Taylor, M.Hainaut	4.5
8. Halperin, Spart.	4.5
9. Schilb, Chalon	4.5
10. Holston, Art.Drag.	4.5

Steals Per Game

Shawn RAY
  Etha
  (194-F-80)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Ray, Etha	4.5
2. Draper, Cedevita	3.5
3. Beverley, Spart.	3.0
4. Minard, Azovmash	2.5
5. Rizvic, Azovmash	2.5
6. Morgan, Karsiyaka	2.0
7. Delaney, Chalon	2.0
8. Bratcenkov, BK Pro.	2.0
9. Taylor, M.Hainaut	2.0
10. Stojanovski, Luko.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Bertengeh GADRI-NICHOLSON
  BK Prost.
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 3

1. Gadri-N., BK Prost.	3.0
2. Pecherov, Azovmash	2.0
3. Koffi, Le Mans	1.5
4. Willard, Ventspils	1.5
5. Jean-B., Chalon	1.5
6. Owens, Cedevita	1.5
7. Ewing, Azovmash	1.5
8. Veselinov, Lukoil	1.0
9. Rey, Gran Canaria	1.0
10. Rizvic, Azovmash	1.0

Eurocup Round: 2 (Qualifying Round). Regular Season teams are known - by Eurobasket News
Spartak SP - Etha 83-64
Spartak St. Petersburg will play in EuroCup Regular Season. The Russian team proved it once more time over Etha to beat them at home 83:64. It gave them 143 123 total win. After the minimum victory in the first leg, Spartak started with 24-21 after the first period. Loukas Mavrokefalidis (207-C-84) brought 28:21 and Yotam Halperin delivered two for 35:29. Valery Likhodey nailed three for 47:35, while Patrick Okafor (203-F-79, college: Houston) closed the half at 49:36. The third quarter was decisive in the game and gave the Russian team 21-12. It totaled to 70:48 and it was clear about the winner at that time. Etha meanwhile won the last period 16-13 but lost the game by 19 points. Patrick Beverley stepped up with 26 points for the winners and Valery Likhodey posted 15. Yotam Halperin followed them with 14 points and Loukas Mavrokefalidis netted 10. Patrick Okafor delivered 15 points in defeat, while Thomas Massamba (185-G-85, agency: Lanshire Group) chipped in 11.

Le Mans - Karsiyaka 80-78
Le Mans earned the second victory over Pinar Karsiyaka in the EuroCup Qualifying Round. The French team thus clinched the regular season birth. Alex Acker (196-G-83, college: Pepperdine) stepped up with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists to pace Le Mans. Le Mans grabbed a 12:6 lead midway through the first frame. But the Turkish side went on a 12:2 run to post a 18:14 lead. They finished the first period up by four points 24:20. Morgan gave Pinar Karsiyaka a 36:26 lead midway through the second quarter. Le Mans however stopped the rot and cut the deficit to a single point at halftime 45:46. The hosts pulled in front early in the third term but not for long. Pinar Karsiyaka returned the lead and established a 63:54 advantage with under three minutes to go in the frame. They entered the final stanza up by seven points and full of hopes. Le Mans tipped off the fourth quarter on a 10:0 run and silenced their opponents. Pinar Karsiyaka never came back to life and had to surrender at the end. Marcellus Sommerville (200-F-82, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Bradley) and Joao Paulo Batista posted 14 points each in the victory. Goran Ikonic (196-G-80, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 21 points for Pinar Karsiyaka. Mire Chatman had 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in the loss.

Gran Canaria - Art.Dragons 92-65
Gran Canaria advanced into EuroCup regular season. The Spanish team coasted past Artland Dragons tonight to seal their next stage appearance at the tournament. Gran Canaria enjoyed a five-point buffer after the game in Germany and gave little chance for the Dragons at home court. Xavier Rey (209-C-87, agency: Interperformances) notched 14 points and 6 rebounds to pace Gran Canaria. The hosts unloaded 27 points in the opening frame to clear off. Gran Canaria recorded a 27:20 lead after ten minutes of action. They stayed in charge throughout the second frame. The hosts ensured a comfortable 50:41 halftime lead. Artland Dragons were unable to keep up the tempo in the second half. Gran Canaria limited their opponents to just 14 points in the third term. The home side piled up a 19-point lead at the final intermission and never looked back en route to the victory. Spencer Nelson (203-F-80, college: Utah St.) and Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) delivered 12 points apiece for the winning side. Johannes Strasser (190-G-82, agency: Court Side) responded with 11 points for Artland Dragons. Darren Fenn (208-C-80, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Canisius) delivered 10 points in the loss.

Azovmash - Ventspils 79-65
Azovmash heads to EuroCup Regular Season beating BK Ventspils at home. The Ukrainian team needed 89:65 victory to win by total of 13 points after two games. Ventspils won the first game at home by one point and started better. Strelnieks nailed three at the end of the first period for 16:14. Moreover Jahmar Young (196-G-86, college: N.Mexico St.) gave his side 19:14 early in the second and Bojan Bakic scored for 24:20. Ricky Minard managed to tie the game at 30:30, while he also gave his side 37:32 at the halftime. Hasan Rizvic brought 44:39 and Daniel Ewing (191-G-83, agency: Alti Sport, college: Duke) scored for 49:41 midway through the third period. Azovmash had 14-point advantage in the period, but could keep only 62:56 after thirty minutes. Moreover Strelnieks tied the game at 62:62 and only 7-0 run allowed the Ukrainian team to stay closer to EuroCup. Hasan Rizvic and Ricky Minard ensured the last points for the winners and will play in the Regular Season. Ricky Minard paced all the winners with 24 points and Daniel Ewing added 18. Radoslav Rancik posted 13, while Hasan Rizvic delivered 9. Bojan Bakic ended up with 18 points for the Baltic side and Jahmar Young posted 14.

M.Hainaut - Besiktas 74-63
Dexia Mons-Hainaut reached EuroCup regular season. They stunned ambitious Besiktas at home court overcoming an 8-point deficit after the game in Turkey. A.J. Slaughter delivered 19 points to pace the Belgian side. The game looked to go Besiktas way in the first half. The Turkish team were well in control of their fate opening an 18:8 lead late in the period. Dexia cut the deficit to just four points at the first intermission 14:18. The hosts got within a single point midway through the second quarter 27:28. However Hawkins scored five points in a 7:1 run that gave the visitors a 35:28 lead. Dexia surprised Besiktas in the third term. They went on a 21:2 run to grab a 49:39 lead. The hosts entered the fourth frame up by as many as 8 points 53:45. Erceg drained a triple at the beginning of the final stanza but Dexia answered with 13 points in a row to accumulate an 18-point buffer. Erceg, Deron Williams (191-PG-84, college: Illinois) and Marcelus Kemp (196-G-84, agency: SportsTalent, college: Nevada) dragged Besiktas within 9 points with ten seconds to go 63:72. Ronell Taylor knocked down two free throws but Erceg had a chance to save the visitors. His three-pointer though missed the mark and Besiktas had to surrender at the end. Ahmad Nivins posted 18 points, while Ronell Taylor, Justin Cage and Warren Carter had 9 points each in the victory. Marcelus Kemp answered with 18 points for Besiktas. Ersin Dagli (204-F/C-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Alabama) netted 13 points in the losing effort.

Cedevita - Chalon 84-69
Cedevita advanced to the Regular Season of EuroCup after the confident victory at home over Elan Chalon. The Croatian side celebrated 84:69 and had 157 147 total win after two games. Cedevita opened the game with 20-16 but could not keep the lead. Blake Schilb (200-F/G-83, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Loyola, IL) made it 28:27 for the guests, while Smodis scored for 38:28. Evtimov later tied the game at 44:44 and Blake Schilb gave again the French side 48:47 lead. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) nailed three to close the quarter at 58:54 and the hosts needed another two points to advance. They even erupted with 26-15 and sealed the necessary victory. Dontaye Draper poured in 18 points and Marino Bazdaric scored 12. Levour Warren and Marko Car followed them with 11 points each in a win. Blake Schilb ended up with 21 points in the losing effort, while Alade Aminu (207-C/F-87, college: Georgia Tech) and Malcolm Delaney (191-G-89, college: Virginia Tech) posted 10 apiece.

Telenet Oostende- Norrkoping Dolphins 70:67

Telenet Oostende clinched EuroCup Regular Season birth as they won again over Norrkoping Dolphins. The Belgian team needed 70:67 victory to total for 17-point advantage after two games.
Oostende had 16-point victory in Sweden in the first leg and did not mind starting in their tempo. The first quarter brought the hosts 22-18 and they also added 21-17 in the second period. The Scandinavian team replied with 19-8 as Mitchell gave his side 54:51 after thirty minutes. Povilas Sakinis (199-F-80) increased to 57:51, but the host did not allow the spectators to leave the court upset. After 19-13 in the last frame the board showed 70:67 win for the Belgian squad.
Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Purdue) paced all the winners with 14 points, while Dusan Sakota (208-PF-86, agency: Beo Basket)ta scored 11. Jason Rich (191-G-86) and Veselin Petrovic (196-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket) followed them with 9 points apiece. Oladapo Ayuba (198-F-86, college: UMKC) collected 18 points and 10 rebounds in defeat and Povilas Sakinis notched 17.

Prostejov - Lukoil Academik 77:87

Lukoil Academik will play at the EuroCup regular season. They defeated Prostejov on the road to seal their next round appearance.
The lead changed hands throughout the opening frame. Lukoil eked out a 19:16 advantage after ten minutes of action. Lamont Mack (201-F-87, college: Charlotte) and Stojanovski drained triples throughout the second term to keep the visitors in front. However Pandula capped the half with a three-pointer and Prostejov earned a 39:38 lead. The hosts opened a four-point lead early in the third term 46:42. But the Bulgarian team answered with a 19:3 run to take a 61:49 advantage. Lukoil entered the fourth quarter up by 17 points 70:53. Prostejov went on a desperate comeback rally in the fourth quarter. They cut the deficit to just 7 points but Lukoil stayed confident and rallied to the victory at the end. Andre Owens (193-G-80, college: Houston) posted 17 points to pace Lukoil. Lamont Mack added 15 points, while Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) contributed 13 points for the winners. Arvydas Eitutavicius (188-G-82, college: American) answered with 14 points for Lukoil Academik. Matej Venta (187-G-84) and Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) netted 11 points each in the loss.

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

EUROLEAGUE

Asseco Prokom lands point guard Oliver Lafayette - by Eurobasket News
Its official now. Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston) became a new member of Asseco Prokom. The American point guard signed a deal for the next season. He started the last one with Partizan Belgrade averaging 8.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists in six Euroleague games. Lafayette also added 10.2 ppg, 4 rpg and 4.2 apg for them in six Adriatic league appearances. They parted ways in November and Lafayette immediately joined NBA D-League team Fort Wayne Mad Ants. He shined there with 16.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 3.6 apg for 21 games. In March, Oliver Lafayette finally joined Israeli Maccabi Ashdod, where he finished last season. In the past, he played in Mexico. Oliver Lafayette graduated at the University of Houston four years ago. In his career he played one NBA game with the Boston Celtics.

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

FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Karhu crushed KTP - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, Round 3: Karhu (Kauhajoki) crushed tonight KTP (Kotka) 128-79 (62-43)! Difference 49 points is huge. The fourth quarter digits 40-10 is telling KTP Head Coach Lars Ekstrom let the bench players play more than usually. Karhu was also shooting well. Seven players were in double figures. And the fouls were against KTP: 19-34. So Karhu was given 34 FTs (27 made) and KTP 17 FTs (11 made). Kelly Beidler (199-F-88, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Mt.St.Mary's) and Eldar Skamo (198-F-86) netted 24 points each. Karhu (3-0) is leading the Top League. In Joensuu local Kataja defeated Vilpas (Salo) 91-68 (46-40). Jared Newson (195-G/F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tennessee-Martin) led the hosts with a double-double 32pts/10rbs. In Lahti local YMCA lost vs UU-Korihait (Uusikaupunki) 84-88 (43-39). Ryan Brooks (193-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Temple) led YMCA Lahti with 22 pts. Cory Johnson (200-F-88, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Valparaiso) (Korihait) scored game high 26 pts. And at Lappeenranta hosting YMCA LPR lost vs Kouvot (Kouvola) 82-92 (42-40). Josh Gonner (188-G-82, college: S.Carolina) (Kouvot) knocked down 28 pts. 18-year-old Ilari Seppala (190-G-93) scored his personal best on this level, 15 pts.
Karhu - KTP 128-79 (62-43). (Karhu: Kelly Beidler 24/8, Eldar Skamo 24/6, Todd Hendley 18/7 - KTP: Tim Blue 20/9, Bennett Davis 17, Juho Lehtoranta 12).
Kataja - Vilpas 91-68 (46-40). (Kataja: Jared Newson 32/10, Matt Terwilliger 15/8, B.A.Walker 12 - Vilpas: Junior Hairston 22, John Fields 11/18, Miska Ahokas 10).
YMCA Lahti - UU-Korihait 84-88 (43-39). (YMCA Lahti: Ryan Brooks 22, Steven Wright 21, Keena Young 14/11 - Korihait: Cory Johnson 26, Nigel Moore 17/9, Petri Heinonen 12).
YMCA Lappeenranta - Kouvot 82-92 (42-40). (Lawrence Hamm 20/7, DeAndre Haynes 19/10a, Tyler Tiedeman 15 - Kouvot: Josh Gonner 28, Ilari Seppala 15, Antoine Jordan 14/10).

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Kataja		3-0
2. Kauhajoki		3-0
3. Nilan Bisons		1-0
4. Pyrinto		1-0
5. ToPo		1-1
6. Salon Vilpas		1-2
7. Namika Lahti		1-2
8. Korihait		1-2
9. Kouvot		1-2
10. KTP		0-2
11. LrNMKY		0-2

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

FRANCE

Nancy's Abdel Kader Sylla out at least six weeks - by Eurobasket News
Abdel Kader Sylla (205-C-90) will miss at least six weeks due to left hand injury, informed his team Nancy. The young center got injured during the practice. Sylla is a member of Nancy since 2008. He played mostly for their U21 team so far. Last season Sylla appeared just three times in ProA and three times in EuroCup with limited playing time. He had 2.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 1 bpg in ProA. Before Nancy, Sylla played for Premium Cobras. The player is originally from Seychelles. He played for their National Team this summer. Sylla also participated at the Addidas Eurocamp in Treviso. With Premium Cobras he won two Seychelles league titles in 2005 and 2006.

Alex Gordon replaces Russell Robinson in JSF Nanterre - by Eurobasket News
JSF Nanterre found a replacement for point guard Russell Robinson (185-G-86), who left the club last week. The new player of Nanterre is Alex Gordon (183-G-85, college: Vanderbilt), who spent some time with Hyeres-Toulon this pre-season. Gordon played for Roanne in 2010/11. He had 7.9 ppg, 1.6 rpg and 2.7 apg for 19 games in ProA. Gordon also added 5.2 ppg and 1.2 rpg for 6 games in EuroCup. In 2009/10, he played for Turkish Kepez and Erdemir. A year before that, Gordon exploded with Oyak Renault with 20.9 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 4.4 apg for 30 games in Turkish league. It was his first season as a pro and Gordon was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Honorable Mention -09. He also participated at TBL All-Star Game. Alex Gordon is a product of the Vanderbilt University.

Tony Parker officially joins ASVEL - by Eurobasket News
Tony Parker (183-PG-80) officially signed a deal with ASVEL until the end of the NBA lockout. The French superstar will pay insurance by himself and will play for the minimum salary in ProA (1.500 per month). It is important to mention that Parker is a part owner of ASVEL. Tony Parker paced French National Team to Silver at the EuroBasket in Lithuania this summer. He had impressive 22.1 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 1.6 spg for 10 games at this event. Parker heads to ASVEL from the San Antonio Spurs. He joined the Spurs in 2001 and never left them, until now. Last season Parker had 17.7 ppg, 3 rpg and 6.5 apg in 84 games. He was even better in 2008/09. At that time, Parker collected 22.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 6.9 apg. Tony Parker won three NBA rings with San Antonio. They were champions in 2003, 2005 and 2007.

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

GERMANY

Brandon Chappell (Licher Basket Baeren) If Robin Benzing Wasnt Playing In Germany He Would Be On The And1 Tour Doing Tricks For Fun - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Brandon Chappell (183-G-83, college: Lamar) is a 28 year old 183cm guard from Beaumont, Texas that is playing his first season in the PRO B for the Licher Basket Baeren. He is a up tempo floor general that makes smart decissions on the floor. Can really shoot the three but great at getting to the basket. Played with NBA Champion Kendrick Perkins of the Boston Celtics in High School where they won the Class 4A state championship. He played at Lamar from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 32 games averaging 8.4ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 38.6%, 3Pts: 39.5%, FT: 59.1%. In his first three seasons as a professional he has played in Germany. In 2007-2008, he played for BBC Bayreuth (Germany-ProA): 30 games: 7.7ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 47.3%, 3FGP: 31.1%, FT: 75.0%. In 2008-2009, he moved to TV Langen playing 23 games: 14.5ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 78.3%. In 2009-2010 for TV Langen, he played 29 games: 11.5ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 81.8%. Last season, he played for the Southeast Texas Mavericks (ABA) He spoke to eurobasket recently about basketball.

Brandon, congrats on your new job with the Licher Baskets Baren. How good a feeling is it coming back to Germany?

I feel good about coming back to Germany. This is where i started my career so its a comfortable feeling

You will be playing in the lower division PRO B. You had experience playing in the PRO A with TV Langen. Will you be setting big goals since you performed very well years ago in the German PRO A.

Of course goals will be set for this upcoming season. I am confident that our management, coaches/players, and myself will work together to accomplish what we set.

How do you see your role in Lich? I can imagine you will be relied on doing a lot of scoring and setting up teammates similar to what Dashaun Wood did with the Deutsche Bank Skyliners last season

My role is to be the leader of the team and with that comes alot of responsibility on and off the court. So I am ready to do whatever it takes for Lich to be successful.

What do you know about your new coach Igor Starkevic? I am sure you had dealings with him or met him years ago as you played for TV Langen?

Coach Igor and I have been around each other for years but haven't had the chance to work together until now. He is a former player that is very passionate about the game and he will push us to play at a high level. I am looking forward to it

How has your summer been. Was there anything that you could do this summer that you hadnt been able to do the last years?

The summer has been good. I have been active on and off the court lol. I just played in a big tournment this past weekend. NBA and top level professional players compete in it every year and this was the first summer in a while that i was able to play. Normally I am already gone for the season.

How does a normal off season work out day look like for Brandon Chappell (183-G-83, college: Lamar)ll?

My workouts are like many players workouts. Conditioning and weights in the early morning, individual drills and shooting after, then we play pick up or summer league games in the evening. I am blessed to have other professional players around me that wants to get better, so we all push each other and compete.

What have you been working on the most this summer on your game?

Honestly I have been working on all parts of my game to improve. One thing that I have been doing more of this summer is stretching and agility. I have learned that if your body feels good you play even better. So i will keep that up this season.

What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get recognized right away?

A strength that many may not know about is my defense on and off the ball. I want to make a difference on both sides of the court.

You played last season for the Southeast Texas Mavericks (ABA). What kind of an experience was that for you and how would you compare that level and style to the German PRO A?

The Mavericks are 2time champions so anytime you have the chance to play for winners you gain confidence and you work hard to be on top.

You played for TV Langen from 2008-2009. You played together with Robin Benzing. Were you surprised that he wasnt drafted by an NBA team?

Robin is without a doubt a pro on any level in the basketball world. He will definitely get his chance to play in the NBA, its just a matter of when and where. Maybe since Dirk destroyed the league, Rob aka 'the kid' will get a better look

What was the most amazing thing that you saw Robin Benzing do in a practice?

I have seen Robin do many amazing things but one thing that impressed me the most in practice was how hard he worked. If Robin Benzing wasnt playing in Germany he would be on the And1 tour doing tricks for fun

Will your buddy Kendrick Perkins win an NBA championship with the Thunder in the next years?

I believe they will. I have been around him and his teammates a lot this summer and they are definitely a close team. Perk brings championship experience while the rest of the young team is gaining it. Oh and Kevin Durant!

What was your reaction when you heard that Ron Artest changed his name to world peace?

.Didn't even think twice about it until now...its Ron Artest lol

What was the last DVD movie that you?

I'm saving my Dvds for the season, but I just watched Planet of Apes at the movies. A must see

Thanks Brandon for the chat.

Larry D. Wright Joins FRAPORT SKYLINERS Juniors - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO B team FRAPORT SKYLINERS have brought in American Larry Wright (187-G-87) who will help out on the court with his play and support the coaching staff as well. Wright is a 24 year old 187cm combo guard from Saginaw, Michigan. He comes straight from the NCAA where he played two years for ST Johns and the last two years for Oakland. In his senior year, he played 34 games: 9.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.0apg, FGP: 43.9%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 80.2%. 'In the next weeks there will be many times when our BEKO BBL team and PRO B teams will have overlapping schedules and we wanted to be sure that with Larry Wright we would always have the needed quality no matter which players were being inserted into whichever teams. He played at top college programmes. He is a super guard/wing player with very good fundamentals and a very athletic and intensive style. He will help with his play, but also in practice with forcing the development in the quality of our point guards. He also will support the coaching staff in the individual training as well as the team practices of the NBBL and Regionaliga teams', stressed head coach Harald Stein.Awards/Achievements in the basketball career of Larry D. Wright have been HS: No. 1 AP ranking in the state of Michigan -06, HS: finalist for Mr. Basketball in the state of Michigan -06, Summit League Regular Season Champion -10, 11, Summit League Tournament Winner -10, 11
Summit League All-Newcomer Team -10, and All-Summit League Sixth Man of the Year -11

Source: FRAPORT SKYLINERS e.V.

Can The Dynamic Duo Dashaun Wood And Gordon Herbert Lead Alba Berlin To New Glory? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
There was a time between 1996-2003 that the basketball world of Alba Berlin seemed as perfect as the Michael Jordan run with the Chicago Bulls, the seemingly always flawless face of Cindy Crawford even in her rise in age or the breathless scenery of the lake Geneva. In these 7 years Alba Berlin was able to win 10 German basketball titles, including 7 league titles in a row and three cup wins. Alba Berlin ruled the German basketball world and was on top of the world like Dirk Nowitzki currently is after winning his first NBA title, or 19 year old Borrusia Dortmund German Mario Gotze currently is by invitation of the media. However since 2003, the team that plays in the posh O-2 World arena has seemed to lost that magic touch as they have only been able to win 3 titles in the last seven years with the league title in 2008 and two cup wins 2006 and 2009. What have been the main problems? Did the team loose their hunger in 2003 which somehow has been transferred over to the next teams? The Beko BBL has become more competitive and athletic in the last 5 years, coaches have come and gone, and the player transfers have not always seemed to have fit and team chemistry was lacking as well. Despite being only a game away last season from winning their 9th title, Alba Berlin knows that in order not to get passed this season by a Bamberg and Munich, the club had to react and could have heightened their title chances in 2012 with the arrival of mastermind coach Gordon Herbert

Last season, Alba Berlin rebounded well after not knowing how the coaching change from Luka Pavicevic (agency: Beo Basket ) to Muli Katzurin (agency: Avi Zilberman ) would end, but the club lost on the road to the always very strong Brose Baskets Bamberg in 5 games in the Beko BBL final. Alba Berlin had chances to win game 5, but some small mistakes and missed shots coupled with some big John Goldsberry three pointers washed out their hopes of bringing the championship back to the Spree. Muli Katzurin (agency: Avi Zilberman ) did a wonderful job taking over a squad in mid season changing the Pavicevic style and making the Albatros game more fast and mixing up the defensive sets. He led the team from a come from behind series win against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg and a very satisfying win over the Deutsche Bank Skyliners winning 3 games on the foreign floor of the Ballsporthalle. Katzurin brought new life to guys like Bryce Taylor and Heiko Schaffartzik, but somehow despite him saving the season from a possible nightmare had he not stepped up to the helm in January, Alba Berlin was looking in a new direction with Gordon Herbert

Alba Berlin had had success with Americans Julius Jenkins (187-PG-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) and Immanuel Mcelroy, but there is always a time for a change, just like when you give your apartment a new new look changing the colours of the living room walls. Alba Berlin did a gradual face lift bidding farewell to ex Beko BBL MVP Julius Jenkins (187-PG-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern), the best defensive player in the league Immanuel Mcelroy who had won a combined 5 titles in Berlin, 2010 Eurochallenge winner Taylor Rochestie (185-PG-85, college: Washington St.), Serbs Tadijia Dragcevic, Miroslav Raduljica and Germanys leading title holder Patrick Femmerling. Alba Berlin kept a solid core of players with ballerina dancer Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi), Bryce Taylor whos dunk over Predrag Suput will remain in the heads of many from last seasons final series against Bamberg and a core of Germans including three point sharp shooter Heiko, Mrwhen you need a crazy three point bomb give me the ball please Schaffartzik, Sven Schultze, Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo), and Lucca Staiger (196-G-88, college: Iowa St.).

Alba Berlin didnt waste anytime getting their most important order of business squared away as they hired Gordon Herbert very early this summer. Alba Berlin see Herbert as being the man to get Alba Berlin back on the title road and not getting run over by teams like Bamberg and Munich. This will be Herberts 5th season in the Beko BBL. He led Frankfurt to their first league title in 2004 and reached the cup final that year. In 2010, he was two points away to getting Frankfurt that 2nd league title as the Skyliners lost a bitter game 5 final in Bamberg. Last season, Frankfurt lost in 5 games to Alba Berlin. Herbert is known as getting the best out of his players, but also known in being able to build a strong and successful team even if talent and deepness is lacking. Now Herbert will have a type of new challenge as the talent will be about as abundant this season for the Canadian as there is with top Israel team Macabbi Tel Aviv. Now all eyes will be focused on Herbert to see how he will make an already very talented club even better.
Even after Alba Berlin had kicked out the Deutsche Bank Skyliners from the playoffs in their own living room, they still had no mercy as they stole Mr road runner DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) from the heart of the fans. Despite that Wood had signed a contract to stay with Frankfurt, he did put some clauses in so that he could leave the club. One of those clauses was that he would go where Gordon Herbert would go. A heart of a player can be as big as Mount Everest for a team, but about as often as the sun shines in the Costa De Sol in south Spain, the green numbered paper that rules the world mostly keeps the heart of a player more green than red. Wood who was the leagues MVP in 2011 playing 42 games: Score-1 (19.0ppg), 4.6rpg, Assists-2 (5.9apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 80.3%, will more than likely not be able to post stats like that again with alba Berlin. He will have a different role in Berlin as he will be surrounded by many scorers and not have the burden on his shoulders having to score as he often did in Frankfurt. The question will be how well can his ego get used to his new role, but he has stated that winning is his biggest priority and not scoring 20 points a game.

Alba Berlin then got a versatile 4/5 man with Boston native Torin Francis (210-F-83, college: Notre Dame) who should be a solid complementary player to Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) at the center position. Francis is a 29 year old 210cm American from Boston. He is a a highly-skilled and gifted athlete with game-breaking ability, versatile all-around frontcourt player who plays both ends of the floor extremely well, has a physical offensive and defensive presence on the court and runs the floor extremely well for a player his size. He is explosive in the post, smart decision maker with the ball and an unselfish player who knows how to distribute the ball. This will be his 6th professional season as the Notre Dame alumnist has played in countries like Italy, Israel, Turkey and Greece. Last season, he played for Bornova Bld (Turkey-TBL, starting five): 13 games: 10.2ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 48.2%, FT: 61.1%; and in January 11 moved to Panellinios Athens (Greece-A1, starting five): Greek League: 16 games: 12.6ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 52.7%, FT: 68.8%; EuroCup: 6 games: 15.7ppg, 8.2rpg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 65.0%, FT: 72.7%. His only rap may be that he has never won a title at the professional ranks.

For the departure of Serb Tadijia Dragcevic, the team hauled in another talented Serb with Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) who seem to be around on the basketball block as much as the buses on Madison avenue in New York city. Simonovic is a 24 year old 202cm forward that is a great athlete with enormous jumping ability and an attractive player with great three point shoot. He played for BC Buducnost Podgorica (Montenegro) the last three years and last season played Adriatic League: 27 games: 13.8ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 37.8%, FT: 69.2%; Euroleague Qualifying Round: 2 games: 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.0apg, 2.0spg. He may only be 24, but has vast experience for a player of his age having played for teams like Telindus BC Oostende (Belgium)and KK Hemofarm Vrsac. The Serbs in general for European basketball teams seem to be as exchangeable as the women on the side of George Clooney and with Simonovic it wont be any different as he will help Alba Berlin with his inside out game.
The last player Alba Berlin got was highly touted and exciting Kyle Weaver (198-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington St.) He is a 25 year old 198cm guard/forward from Beloit, Wisconsin. Since graduating from Washington St. (NCAA) in 2008, he has breathed NBA air most of the time except for some short D-league stays and ending last season with TEC Spirou Charleroi (Belgium). In his senior year at Washington State, he played 35 games: 12.2ppg, 5.3rpg, AssistsConf-4 (4.3apg), StealsConf-4 (1.7spg), FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 73.3%: Is the first player in Pac-10 history to record 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, 400 assists, 175 steals and 75 blocked shots in a career. Finished collegiate career ranked second in assists in Washington State history with 465, third in steals with 188, seventh in blocked shots with 93 and 17th in scoring with 1,162 points. In his first three seasons as a professional basketball player he has played a total of 73 NBA games for The Oklahoma Thunder and Utah Jazz. Weaver shins with his great defensive play and anticipation skills and is a guy that does many things well including passing and displaying ferocity of attacking the boards. His perimeter shooting has improved since turning pro. Weaver could be one of the new stars of the Beko BBL this season.

Alba Berlin on paper belongs to the top three teams in the Beko BBl with The Brose Baskets Bamberg and FC Bayern Munich. I might even go as far as saying that Alba Berlin is my top favorite to do serious damage in the hardware department this season. Of course the club is deep, but having Gordon Herbert on board and DaShaun Wood is more than half the rent. The team is very strong at every position and have the one of the top coaches in the league. Bamberg will be going for the triple and once again have more than 80% of their team back and have top class coach Chris Flemming and will be hard to beat. Alba Berlin will have to contest with the Bamberg toughness and feisteness of FC Bayern Munich to establish themselves in the league this season. However Herbert and Wood want to win titles. Wood last season satisfied his ego demonstrating that he was the best player in the Beko BBL and could play in the NBA given the chance. Now he has the chance to win titles and nothing else to worry about. Herbert has shown that he can get the best out of a team despite what is given to him. He will make Alba Berlin play attractive basketball on both ends of the court. His biggest challenge will be getting the egos on the same page, but at the same time his biggest weapon is making his players better no matter the conditions. Wouldnt the start of a new Alba Berlin dynasty only seem logical with a Herbert and Wood? There isnt a better dynamic duo in the league and besides Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) might even retire from his ballerina steps just to win that first Beko BBL title. Allen is one of the hardest workers in the Beko BBL and might even sneak into the arena to practice extra just to be able to do what he can to help his team reach this goal. Alba Berlin has the character to win it all this season and with Herbert the perfect coach to help mesh everything together on the court.

Bremerhaven head coach Douglas Spradley signs contract extension - by Moritz Korff
The 2011-12 season has not yet begun for Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops) and his Eisbaeren Bremerhaven team, but as the BBL club announced, the 46-year-old coach was handed a contract extension that will keep him in Bremerhaven for another year. 'We wanted to provide clarity as far as the coaching position is concerned and we are very happy that Doug Spradley will remain loyal to the Eisbaeren team beyond this current season. He and his staff have done an excellent job in these past two years', general manager Jan Rathjen stated. Spradley made the move from Paderborn to Bremerhaven in 2009 and guided the Eisbaeren team to back to back BBL playoff appearances in these past two years. Spradley's new contract with Bremerhaven will run through 2013.

Standings - 1. Bundesliga

1.Bundesliga Standings

1. Brose Baskets		1-0
2. EnBW L'burg		1-0
3. EWE Baskets		1-0
4. NY Phantoms		1-0
5. Ratiopharm		1-0
6. s.Oliver Baskets		1-0
7. Telekom Baskets		1-0
8. ALBA		0-0
9. Art.Dragons		0-0
10. Bremerhaven		0-0
11. Walter Tigers		0-0
12. B.Muenchen		0-1
13. Bayreuth		0-1
14. Fraport SKY		0-1
15. Goettingen		0-1
16. LTi 46ers		0-1
17. Phoenix Hagen		0-1
18. TBB Trier		0-1

Standings - Pro B

ProB Standings

Group North
1. Vechta		3-0
2. Hannover		2-0
3. Rist Wedel		2-1
4. Schwelm		2-1
5. Wulfen		2-1
6. Dorsten		2-1
7. Herten		1-1
8. SU Medien		1-2
9. Wolfenbuettel		1-2
10. Stahnsdorf		1-2
11. ALBA Berlin II		0-2
12. Bayer Giants		0-2
13. Bernau		0-3
Group South
1. Gotha		3-0
2. Leipzig		3-0
3. Langen		2-1
4. BSW Sixers		2-1
5. Hanau		2-1
6. Licher Baeren		2-1
7. Noerdlingen		2-1
8. Giessen		1-2
9. Fraport SKY II		1-2
10. Dragons		0-2
11. BG Illertal		0-3
12. TSV Troester		0-3

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GREECE

Spartak St.Petersburg overwhelmed Aris in home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Aris-Spartak St.Petersburg 39:68

Spartak St.Petersburg overwhelmed Aris in home tournament. The Russian team grabbed easy 68:36 win at the start of the Kondrashin and Belov Cup.
It was a defensive start and the Russian team grabbed 12-7 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they allowed the guests to score another 7 points in the second quarter, while erupting with 28. In the third quarter Spartak added 17-12 and did not mind 11-13 in the last frame.
Pavel Sergeev (187-G-87, agency: RIZO) stepped up with 13 points and KOTISHEVSKIY Alexey scored 11. Anatoly Kashirov (215-C-87) notched 9, while Yotam Halperin (196-G-84) and Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) added 7 each. Adrian Oliver (193-G-88, college: San Jose St.) finished the game with 12 points and Sergio Kerusch (195-F, college: W.Kentucky) posted 9.
Asseco Prokom Gdynia won the opener of the Kondrashin and Belov Cup. The Polish side overcame Kalev Tallinn 90:64 and will face Spartak in the Final.

Aris: Adrian Oliver 12, Sergio Kerusch 9
Spartak St.-Petersburg: Pavel Sergeev 13, KOTISHEVSKIY Alexey 11, Anatoly Kashirov 9, Yotam Halperin 7, Vladimir Dragicevic 7

KAO Dramas brings in Dragan Ceranic - by Eurobasket News
Dragan Ceranic (212-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) is back to Greece. The Serbian center joined KAO Dramas for the next season and it will be his first time in A2. Ceranic spent last season with Polish Trefl Sopot. He appeared 33 times in PLK averaging 10.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists. He helped them reach Playoff Semifinals. From 2006 to 2010, Dragan Ceranic played in Greece. First he was a member of GS Larissa and later moved to Panellinios Athens. In 2007/08, Ceranic played for AEL 1964 Larissa and next season for Kolossos. In 2009/10 he averaged 5.7 points and 5.1 rebounds for 26 games with Kavala. In the past, Dragan Ceranic played in France, Ukraine, Italy, Hungary, Cyprus, Serbia and Montenegro.

NBA Lockout - Transfer Update - by Nima Siar
With the looming NBA lockout and games about to be canceled if no deal is reached by Monday 10/10, many players are signing with teams throughout Europe. Most teams are allowing these players to return to their respective NBA teams if the lockout ends however in China, for example, many big name players have signed but the Chinese basketball governing body is not allowing 'opt-out' contracts so players can return to the NBA. Check out the list of some of the NBA players who have signed internationally and the teams which they will be suiting up for this season:

LaVoy Allen
Philadelphia
Strasbourg (France)

David Andersen
New Orleans
Montepaschi Siena (Italy)

Hilton Armstrong
Atlanta
ASVEL Villeurbanne (France)

Leandro Barbosa
Toronto
Flamengo (Brazil)

Nicolas Batum
Portland
Nancy (France)

Keith Benson
Atlanta
Dinamo Sassari (Italy)

DeJuan Blair
San Antonio
Samara (Russia)

Craig Brackins
Philadelphia
Maccabi Ashdod (Israel)

Wilson Chandler
Denver
Zhejiang Guangsha (China)

Austin Daye
Detroit
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Boris Diaw
Charlotte
JSA Bordeaux (France)

Jon Diebler (198-G-88, college: Ohio St.)
Portland
Panionios (Greece)

Joey Dorsey
Toronto
Baskonia (Spain)

Chris Douglas-Roberts
Milwaukee
Virtus Bologna (Italy)

Semih Erden
Cleveland
Besiktas (Turkey)

Rudy Fernandez
Dallas
Real Madrid (Spain)

Jordan Farmar
New Jersey
Maccabi Tel-Aviv (Israel)

Dan Gadzuric
New Jersey
Jiangsu (China)

Sundiata Gaines
New Jersey
Armia (Georgia)

Danilo Gallinari
Denver
Olimpia Milano (Italy)

Alonzo Gee
Cleveland
Prokom Trefl Sopot (Poland)

Danny Green
San Antonio
Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Justin Harper
Orlando
Strasbourg (France)

Pooh Jeter
Sacramento
Joventut Badalona (Spain)

Ersan Ilyasova
Milwaukee
Anadolu Efes (Turkey)

Andrei Kirilenko
Utah
CSKA Moscow (Russia)

Nenad Krstic
Boston
CSKA Moscow (Russia)

Acie Law
Golden State
Partizan Belgrade (Serbia)

Gani Lawal
Phoenix
Zastal (Poland)

Ty Lawson
Denver
Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania)

Jon Leuer
Milwaukee
Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany)

Kenyon Martin
Denver
Xinjiang Flying Tigers (China)

Patrick Mills
Portland
Melbourne Tigers (Australia)

E'Twaun Moore
Boston
Benetton Treviso (Italy)

Timofey Mozgov
Denver
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Byron Mullens (213-C-89, college: Ohio St.)
Oklahoma City
Panionios (Greece)

Mehmet Okur
Utah
Turk Telekom (Turkey)

Chandler Parsons
Houston
Cholet (France)

Nikola Pekovic
Minnesota
Partizan Belgrade (Serbia)

Josh Powell
Atlanta
Liaoning Panpan (China)

Chris Quinn
San Antonio
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Brian Scalabrine
Chicago
Benetton Treviso (Italy)

Kevin Seraphin
Washington
Caja Laboral (Spain)

Mustafa Shakur
Washington
Pau Orthez (France)

Kyle Singler
Detroit
Lucentum Alicante (Spain)

JR Smith
Denver
Zhejiang Lions (China)

Darius Songaila
Philadelphia
Galatasaray (Turkey)

DaJuan Summers
Detroit
Montepaschi Siena (Italy)

Pape Sy
Atlanta
Gravelines (France)

Garrett Temple
Charlotte
Casale (Italy)

Ben Uzoh
New Jersey
Lokomotiv Kuban (Russia)

Robert Vaden
Oklahoma City
BK Nitra (Slovakia)

Nikola Vucevic
Philadelphia
Buducnost (Montenegro)

Sasha Vujacic
New Jersey
Anadolu Efes (Turkey)

Von Wafer
Boston
Cremona (Italy)

Sonny Weems
Toronto
Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania)

Mario West
New Jersey
Tezenis Verona (Italy)

Deron Williams
New Jersey
Besiktas (Turkey)

Reggie Williams
Golden State
Caja Laboral (Spain)

NBA Lockout - Transfer Update - by Nima Siar
With the looming NBA lockout approaching and games scheduled to be canceled if no deal is reached by 10/10, many players are signing with teams throughout Europe. Most teams are allowing these players to return to their respective NBA teams if the lockout ends however in China, for example, many big name players have signed but the Chinese basketball governing body is not allowing 'opt-out' contracts so players can return to the NBA. Check out the list of some of the NBA players who have signed internationally and the teams which they will be suiting up for this season:

LaVoy Allen
Philadelphia
Strasbourg (France)

David Andersen
New Orleans
Montepaschi Siena (Italy)

Hilton Armstrong
Atlanta
ASVEL Villeurbanne (France)

Leandro Barbosa
Toronto
Flamengo (Brazil)

Nicolas Batum
Portland
Nancy (France)

Keith Benson
Atlanta
Dinamo Sassari (Italy)

DeJuan Blair
San Antonio
Samara (Russia)

Craig Brackins
Philadelphia
Maccabi Ashdod (Israel)

Wilson Chandler
Denver
Zhejiang Guangsha (China)

Austin Daye
Detroit
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Boris Diaw
Charlotte
JSA Bordeaux (France)

Jon Diebler (198-G-88, college: Ohio St.)
Portland
Panionios (Greece)

Joey Dorsey
Toronto
Baskonia (Spain)

Chris Douglas-Roberts
Milwaukee
Virtus Bologna (Italy)

Semih Erden
Cleveland
Besiktas (Turkey)

Rudy Fernandez
Dallas
Real Madrid (Spain)

Jordan Farmar
New Jersey
Maccabi Tel-Aviv (Israel)

Dan Gadzuric
New Jersey
Jiangsu (China)

Sundiata Gaines
New Jersey
Armia (Georgia)

Danilo Gallinari
Denver
Olimpia Milano (Italy)

Alonzo Gee
Cleveland
Prokom Trefl Sopot (Poland)

Danny Green
San Antonio
Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Justin Harper
Orlando
Strasbourg (France)

Pooh Jeter
Sacramento
Joventut Badalona (Spain)

Ersan Ilyasova
Milwaukee
Anadolu Efes (Turkey)

Andrei Kirilenko
Utah
CSKA Moscow (Russia)

Nenad Krstic
Boston
CSKA Moscow (Russia)

Acie Law
Golden State
Partizan Belgrade (Serbia)

Gani Lawal
Phoenix
Zastal (Poland)

Ty Lawson
Denver
Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania)

Jon Leuer
Milwaukee
Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany)

Kenyon Martin
Denver
Xinjiang Flying Tigers (China)

Patrick Mills
Portland
Melbourne Tigers (Australia)

E'Twaun Moore
Boston
Benetton Treviso (Italy)

Timofey Mozgov
Denver
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Byron Mullens (213-C-89, college: Ohio St.)
Oklahoma City
Panionios (Greece)

Mehmet Okur
Utah
Turk Telekom (Turkey)

Chandler Parsons
Houston
Cholet (France)

Nikola Pekovic
Minnesota
Partizan Belgrade (Serbia)

Josh Powell
Atlanta
Liaoning Panpan (China)

Chris Quinn
San Antonio
Khimki Moscow (Russia)

Brian Scalabrine
Chicago
Benetton Treviso (Italy)

Kevin Seraphin
Washington
Caja Laboral (Spain)

Mustafa Shakur
Washington
Pau Orthez (France)

Kyle Singler
Detroit
Lucentum Alicante (Spain)

JR Smith
Denver
Zhejiang Lions (China)

Darius Songaila
Philadelphia
Galatasaray (Turkey)

DaJuan Summers
Detroit
Montepaschi Siena (Italy)

Pape Sy
Atlanta
Gravelines (France)

Garrett Temple
Charlotte
Casale (Italy)

Ben Uzoh
New Jersey
Lokomotiv Kuban (Russia)

Robert Vaden
Oklahoma City
BK Nitra (Slovakia)

Nikola Vucevic
Philadelphia
Buducnost (Montenegro)

Sasha Vujacic
New Jersey
Anadolu Efes (Turkey)

Von Wafer
Boston
Cremona (Italy)

Sonny Weems
Toronto
Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania)

Mario West
New Jersey
Tezenis Verona (Italy)

Deron Williams
New Jersey
Besiktas (Turkey)

Reggie Williams
Golden State
Caja Laboral (Spain)

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HUNGARY

Kaposvari KFT brings in Andrew Keister - by Interperformances
Ex-Holy Cross power forward Andrew Keister (205-F, agency: Interperformances) has agreed terms for the upcoming season with The Hungarian A division Club Kaposvari KFT. On his Senior Year he collected 12.7 points and 9.0 rebounds per game, netting 50.8 percent (120 of 236) of his field goal attempts. On the season, Keister ranked first in the Patriot League in rebounding, fifth in field goal percentage, 11th in scoring and 11th in blocked shots (0.6). This year Andrew has been named also to the All-Patriot League second team where he averaged 14.1 points and 9.9 rebounds in conference action. He is the 15th player in Patriot League history to earn all-conference honors three times, after being named to the first team in 2008-2009 and the second team in 2009-2010.

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ISRAEL

Avery Bradley joins to Hapoel Jerusalem - by Netanel Dahan
Another NBA player is coming to Israel. After Trevor Booker (Bnei Hasharon), Jordan Farmar (Maccabi Tel Aviv), and Craig Brackins (Maccabi Ashdod)-Avery Bradley (188-G-90, college: Texas) joins the new 'trend' and inks with Hapoel Jerusalem.

Bradley is under contract in the Boston Celtics and will leave Jerusalem if the lock-out will end. Although an Israeli website has wrote that Avery signed a two month contract and might will stay even if the lock-out will end that information didn't confirmed with any source.

Bradley played one year for Texas in the NCAA and was choosen in the 19th pick of the NBA draft on 2010 by the Celtics.
Last season he averaged there 1.9 ppg, he was also assigned to Maine Red Claws from the D-league and played there 9 games he averaged in the D-league 17.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 5.2apg, and 3 spg.

Recently Jeruslaem signed the veteran big-man John Thomas.

Barak Netanya land Christian Burns - by Eurobasket News
Barak Netanya seriously bolstered their frontcourt. The Israeli team has agreed on terms of contract with Christian Burns (203-F-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Philadelphia). The forward had a superb last season. He played for Ferro-ZNTU in Ukrainian Superleague. Christian Burns tallied 16.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. In Superleague the forward posted 16.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.4 assists per appearance. Eurobasket.com named Christian Burns All-Ukrainian Superleague Player of the Year. He also participated at Superleague All-Star Game. Previously the forward had spells in Poland, Portugal and Germany. Christian Burns earned Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese League Honourable Mention in 2009.

John Thomas And Jerusalem Make Things Official - by David Pick
It was up in the air for a while and became official this morning when 36-year-old American center John Thomas who recently played for Aris Thessaloniki (Greece) signed a deal with Hapoel Jerusalem (Walla!).

Thomas will join a very deep front court lineup including Brian Randle, Jarvis Varnado, Elishay Kadir and Uri Kokia. As for Randle who came down hard on his foot yesterday in practice, team and the player wait for his MRI results, where the worst case scenario forces him to miss at least two months of action.

The New York Knicks 1997, 25th NBA draft pick will return to Israel after playing for Hapoel Holon two-seasons ago. Thomas began last year training with the Minnesota Timberwolves but was waived after pre-season try-outs, moving to Aris Thessaloniki where he would record 8.0ppg and 6.1rpg in the domestic league and 5.2ppg, 3.6rpg and 1.0bpg in the Eurochallenge before leaving in April.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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ITALY

Dinamo Sassari awards coach Romeo Sacchetti with extension - by Eurobasket News
Dinamo Sassari announced signing of three-year contract extension with their Head Coach Romeo Sacchetti . It means that the Italian specialist will stay with the team until the end of the 2013/14 season. Sacchetti took over Dinamo Sassari in 2009. He helped them win LegaDue Playoffs in their first season together and of course advanced to SerieA. Last season in SerieA Dinamo reached Playoffs. They finished regular season as No.6. Before Dinamo Sassari, coach Romeo Sacchetti worked with Snaidero Udine. In 2007/08, he was coaching Upea Capo DOrlendo. In the past, Sacchetti also worked with Ticino, Fabriano and Torino. In 2007, he was Assistant Coach of the Italian NT.

Gunobili's agent responds to rumor of Manu to Italy: 'Not true' - by Eurobasket News
Herb Rudoy, Emanuel Ginobili's (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances) Chicago-based agent, said rumors out of Bologna, Italy, that the Spurs star is set to join the Italian team if Lakers star Kobe Bryant declines Bologna's offer are untrue.

Rudoy's text message was emphatic. 'Not true!'

Other sources already had shot down the reports out of Italy that Ginobili was Virtus Bologna's fallback option if Bryant turns down the millions of Euros Virtus is offering. One internet report on Tuesday said Ginobili was committed to Bologna should Bryant turn down Virtus.

We know now for certain that report is not true!

Courtesy of http://blog.mysanantonio.com

EA7 Emporio Armani: General Manager Pascucci also becomes CEO - by Edoardo Tamalio
EA7 Emporio Armani Milano President Livio Proli issued the following note: 'With the greatest pleasure is to communicate that Gianluca Pascucci, as well as holding the post of general manager, has joined the Board of Directors of Olympia Ssrl as CEO. I take this opportunity to thank the great professionalism with he has done so far and will continue his mandate to ensure, in future, in addition to hand him my most sincere good luck for the upcoming season. '

Jurica Golemac joins Avellino - by Giovanni Bargna
Sidigas Avellino has announced Jurica Golemac (209-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) today.
The slovenian (born in Zagreb with Slovenian/Croatian nationality) comes back to Italy after three seasons. He played five games with Lottomatica Virtus Roma in 2008/2009.
Golemac spent the first part of last season with KK Zadar (8.2 ppg and 4.5 rpg in the Adriatic League) and then got a chance in the Greek league with VAP Kolossos Rodou (8.2 ppg and 2.7 rpg).
In his professional career, Golemac has played with the following clubs: Zrinjevac Zagreb, Union Olimpija, Geoplin Slovan, Union Olimpija, Efes Pilsen, Cibona Zagreb, Ural Great, Hapoel Jerusalem, Paris-Levallois, Panellinios, Virtus Roma, Panathinaikos, KK Zadar, VAP Kolossos Rodou and Alba Berlin.

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KOSOVO

Bambi needs help! - by Dren Shporta
The team that ended in the second place of the regular season last year, Bambi, has financial problems and is searching for help so they can make a successful start in BKT Superliga. The team from Mitrovica which lost play-off semifinals to Peja in the last season, can not rearrange the players to play without regular payments.

Club director, Igor Dasic (192-G-89, agency: 011 Sports), said that they are doing everything to find a sponsor or donation from Sports Ministry of Kosova so they could begin the new season which starts this Saturday. We have a small budget and we dont need too much to play, told Dasic to the Sport daily of Prishtina.

They knocked on the Governments door, Ministry of Sports and Basketball Federation for a financial infusion. In their first round match Bambi will go to Bardhosh near Prishtina to play against Kolegji Univers and after that they will host Kosova from Vushtrria.

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LATVIA

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings

1. BK VEF		1-0
2. RSU		1-0
3. Cesis		0-0
4. DSN		0-0
5. Gulbene		0-0
6. Jelgava/LLU		0-0
7. Liepaja-2		0-0
8. Livani		0-0
9. Ogres		0-0
10. Ridzene		0-0
11. Riga		0-0
12. Saldus		0-0
13. VA		0-0
14. VEF Kadeti		0-0
15. Barons/Keizar.		0-1
16. Valmiera U21		0-1

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LITHUANIA

Standings - LKL

LKL Standings

1. Neptunas		1-0
2. Zalgiris		1-0
3. Baltai Kaunas		0-0
4. Juventus		0-0
5. Kedainiai		0-0
6. Lietuvos rytas		0-0
7. Pieno Zvaigzdes		0-0
8. Rudupis		0-0
9. Sakalai		0-0
10. Siauliai		0-0
11. Naglis Palangos		0-1
12. Techasas		0-1

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MEXICO

Standings - LNBP

LNBP Standings

1. Fuerza Regia		10-2
2. Halc.Rojos		9-2
3. Toros		9-3
4. Barreteros		8-3
5. Halc.Xalapa		8-3
6. Pioneros		6-5
7. Abejas		5-6
8. Corr.Victoria		5-6
9. Huracanes		5-6
10. Soles		5-6
11. Lechugueros		3-8
12. Panteras		3-8
13. Aguilas Rojas		2-9
14. Volcanes		0-11

LNBP Round 12: Panteras edge Barreteros by one point - by Eurobasket News
Coincidentally all hosts won their games, including even overtime victory of Soles at home. There were many interesting games last round. The round ended with extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most exciting game of round 12 in the LNBP took place in Aguascalientes. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of second-best Barreteros (8-3) to twelfth ranked Panteras (3-8) 89-88 on Saturday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. Barreteros were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Barreteros helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard Marlyn Bryant (193-82, college: S.Florida) who scored 24 points and 5 rebounds. Puerto Rican point guard Ricardo Melendez (180-83, agency: TSS Management) chipped in 21 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Melvin Council (191-82, college: Robert Morris) who recorded 26 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Panteras moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Lechugueros. Barreteros at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with Halc.Xalapa. Panteras is looking forward to face higher ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (#5) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Barreteros will play against the league's second-placed Halcones Rojos where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Important game to mention about took place in Xalapa. Fifth ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (8-3) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 8th ranked Correcaminos (5-6) 93-90 on Saturday evening. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for guard Demetric Shaw (191-78, college: Kent St.) who led his team to a victory with 28 points and 7 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Davin White contributed with 21 points, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Halcones UV Xalapa's coach Andy Stoglin allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. point guard Myron Allen (180-79, college: Lee JC) replied with 25 points and 7 assists for Correcaminos. Halcones UV Xalapa have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Barreteros. Correcaminos at the other side dropped to the seventh position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Halcones UV Xalapa will play against Panteras (#12) in Aguascalientes in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Correcaminos will play at home against Volcanes (#14) in Toluca and hope to get back on the winning track.
Leader Fuerza Regia delivered the tenth victory on Saturday night. This time they crushed 7th ranked Abejas (5-6) 92-66 in Monterrey. Worth to mention a quality performance of Mike Mitchell who helped to win the game recording 23 points. The best for the losing side was Mattis McHugh with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 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. Fuerza Regia (10-2) have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Abejas lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with six games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Fuerza Regia will meet at home Toros (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Abejas will play against Soles (#10) in Mexicali and hope to secure a win.
Bottom-ranked Volcanes (0-11) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 108-99 loss to thirteenth ranked Aguilas Rojas (2-9) in San Juan. The winners were led by Daryl Dorsey who had that evening a double-double by scoring 19 points and 23 assists. Aguilas Rojas maintains thirteenth position with 2-9 record. Volcanes at the other side still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Aguilas Rojas' next round opponent will be higher ranked Lechugueros (#11) in Leon and it may be quite challenging game. Volcanes will play on the road against Correcaminos in Ciudad Victoria and hope to get finally their first victory.
Soles (5-6) survived in overtime against Pioneros (6-5) by three points 109-106 on Saturday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Pioneros. The best player for the winners was Greg Smith who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds. Soles' coach Ivan Deniz used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Soles moved-up to seventh place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Pioneros keep the sixth position with five games lost. Soles will face Abejas (#7) in Guanajuato in the next round.

In the last two games of round 12 Huracanes were defeated by Halc.Rojos in Veracruz 86-71. Toros beat Lechugueros at home 86-82.
The best stats of 12th round was 37 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds by John Millsap of Pioneros.

Aguilas Rojas - Volcanes 108-99

Bottom-ranked Volcanes (0-11) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 108-99 loss to thirteenth ranked Aguilas Rojas (2-9) in San Juan. Volcanes were ahead by 5 points after three quarters before a 28-14 charge of Aguilas Rojas, which allowed them to win the game. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 33 assists comparing to just 15 passes made by Volcanes' players. 24 personal fouls committed by Volcanes helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The winners were led by American point guard Daryl Dorsey (185-81, college: S.Indiana) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 19 points and 23 assists and the other American import David Mercer supported him with 23 points (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). Even 28 points and 5 assists by American guard Larry Morinia (180-80, college: Montana St., agency: ProSportsCareers) did not help to save the game for Volcanes. Guard Carlos M. Toussaint (190-91) added 23 points and 5 rebounds. Five Aguilas Rojas and four Volcanes players scored in double figures. Aguilas Rojas maintains thirteenth position with 2-9 record. Volcanes at the other side still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Aguilas Rojas' next round opponent will be higher ranked Lechugueros (#11) in Leon and it may be quite challenging game. Volcanes will play on the road against Correcaminos in Ciudad Victoria and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Aguilas Rojas: D.Mercer 23+4reb+2ast, F.Fisher 20+6reb+1ast, D.Dorsey 19+3reb+23ast, C.Silva 16+4reb, J.PORTILLO LOZOYA 13+3reb+2ast, I.Silva 10+7reb+4ast
Volcanes: L.Morinia 28+5ast, C.M. Toussaint 23+5reb+2ast, E.MARTIN 13+9reb+4ast, J.Torres 13+3reb+2ast, J.Rivera 8+3reb+1ast, M.Garcia 5+3reb

Panteras - Barreteros 89-88

The most exciting game of round 12 in the LNBP took place in Aguascalientes. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of second-best Barreteros (8-3) to twelfth ranked Panteras (3-8) 89-88 on Saturday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the guest team. Barreteros were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Barreteros helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American guard Marlyn Bryant (193-82, college: S.Florida) who scored 24 points and 5 rebounds. Puerto Rican point guard Ricardo Melendez (180-83, agency: TSS Management) chipped in 21 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Melvin Council (191-82, college: Robert Morris) who recorded 26 points and 7 rebounds and his fellow American import forward James Reaves (203-82, college: Niagara, agency: TSS Management) added 23 points and 7 rebounds (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) respectively. Four Barreteros players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Panteras moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Lechugueros. Barreteros at the other side dropped to the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with Halc.Xalapa. Panteras is looking forward to face higher ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (#5) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Barreteros will play against the league's second-placed Halcones Rojos where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Panteras: M.Bryant 24+5reb, R.Melendez 21+1reb+3ast, K.Malpica 12+3reb+5ast, S.Bowie 8+9reb+5ast, I.Lopez 7+7reb+1ast, J.Casillas 6+3reb
Barreteros: M.Council 26+7reb+3ast, J.Reaves 23+7reb+1ast, M.Thomas 16+6reb+3ast, R.Navarro 11+1reb+1ast, S.Cuevas 6+1reb+3ast, R.Loera Almanza 4+1reb

Halc.Rojos - Huracanes 86-71

There was no surprise in Veracruz where 9th ranked Huracanes (5-6) were defeated by third ranked Halcones Rojos (9-2) 86-71 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Halcones Rojos. Huracanes was better in fourth quarter 26-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Halcones Rojos looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Huracanes' players. The best player for the winners was international guard Paul Stoll (178-85) who scored 12 points and 8 assists. Venezuelan point guard Gregory Vargas (182-86) chipped in 11 points and 8 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American center Albert Fuqua (211-83, college: UTSA) who recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and 15 rebounds and U.S. Virgin Isl. Swingman Jason Edwin (197-81, college: Kent St.) added 16 points respectively. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Halcones Rojos have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Loser Huracanes dropped to the seventh position with six games lost. Halcones Rojos will face Barreteros (#4) in Zacatecas in the next round. Huracanes will play at home against Pioneros in Cancun and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Halc.Rojos: P.Stoll 12+4reb+8ast, G.Vargas 11+3reb+8ast, N.Alonzo 10+1reb, L.Bethelmy 9+4reb+1ast, S.Pruitt 9+5reb, C.Rivera 8+2reb+2ast
Huracanes: J.Edwin 16+3reb, O.Quintero 11+1reb+1ast, A.Fuqua 11+15reb+2ast, S.Sir 9+3reb, E.Medina 7+1ast, L.Davis 7+2reb

Toros - Lechugueros 86-82

No shocking result in a game in Nuevo Laredo where fourth ranked Toros (9-3) defeated 11th ranked Lechugueros (3-8) 86-82 on Saturday. However just four-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Lechugueros were trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 26-21 charge of Toros, which allowed them to win the game. Lechugueros were plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American guard Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV) who had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. American-Puerto Rican point guard Wilfredo Pagan (184-76, agency: Paris Global Sports) chipped in 17 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Haitian-American swingman Bobby St.Preux (196-80, college: N.Kentucky, agency: KMG Sports Management) who recorded 26 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Deilvez Yearby (198-87, college: IPFW, agency: Pro One Sports) added 15 points and 12 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Toros moved-up to third place. Lechugueros lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with eight games lost. Toros will face league's leader Fuerza Regia in Monterrey in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Lechugueros will play at home against Aguilas Rojas (#13) in San Juan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Toros: R.Rougeau 22+13reb+4ast, W.Pagan 17+6reb+6ast, J.Brownlee 10+8reb+3ast, L.Ellis Vasquez 10+2reb, J.Lopez 8+7reb, D.Pearson 7
Lechugueros: B.St.Preux 26+5reb, D.Yearby 15+12reb+1ast, R.Moss 11+6reb, W.Funn 10+3reb+6ast, E.Cuen 9+4reb+1ast, A.Cristian Montas 7+4reb

Fuerza Regia - Abejas 92-66

Leader Fuerza Regia delivered the tenth victory on Saturday night. This time they crushed 7th ranked Abejas (5-6) 92-66 in Monterrey. The hosts trailed by 11 points at the halftime before their 56-19 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Fuerza Regia dominated on the defensive end, holding Abejas to just 6 points in third quarter. They also forced 19 Abejas turnovers. Fuerza Regia looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Worth to mention a quality performance of American point guard Mike Mitchell (181-83, college: N.Mexico St.) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and Puerto Rican point guard Alvin Cruz (186-82, college: Niagara, agency: Paris Global Sports) who added 9 points and 11 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was American-Jamaican forward Mattis McHugh (198-84, college: S.Florida) with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds and Puerto Rican guard Jesus Verdejo (193-85, college: S.Florida) scored 17 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Fuerza Regia (10-2) have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Abejas lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with six games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Fuerza Regia will meet at home Toros (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Abejas will play against Soles (#10) in Mexicali and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Fuerza Regia: M.Mitchell 23+3reb, J.Smith 18+2reb+1ast, A.Izaguirre 10+3reb+3ast, T.Thomas 10+5reb+2ast, A.Cruz 9+4reb+11ast, C.Roberts 8+9reb+3ast
Abejas: M.McHugh 18+11reb, J.Verdejo 17+2reb+1ast, J.Harris 13+4reb, C.Soto 5+3reb+3ast, M.Jackson 4+8reb+1ast, V.Buelna 4+4reb+2ast

Soles - Pioneros 109-106 OT

Soles (5-6) survived in overtime against Pioneros (6-5) by three points 109-106 on Saturday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Pioneros. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Pioneros won fourth quarter 27-21. 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 Pioneros used huge pressure winning it 27-21 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 11-14. Soles looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was American center Greg Smith (208-91, college: Fresno St., agency: Impact Basketball) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds. Venezuelan point guard David Cubillan (183-87, college: Marquette) chipped in 22 points and 5 assists. Soles' coach Ivan Deniz used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward John Millsap (198-82, college: UTSA) who recorded a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds and the former international swingman Romel Beck (203-82, college: UNLV, agency: Interperformances) added 20 points and 6 assists respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Soles moved-up to seventh place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Pioneros keep the sixth position with five games lost. Soles will face Abejas (#7) in Guanajuato in the next round.
Top scorers:
Soles: G.Smith 24+11reb, D.Cubillan 22+2reb+5ast, C.Edwards 20+6reb+1ast, J.Griffin 19+2reb+2ast, R.Glenn 9+5reb+3ast, P.Meza Rogel 7+1reb+8ast
Pioneros: J.Millsap 37+12reb+1ast, G.Grays 20+3ast, R.Beck 20+4reb+6ast, H.Llamas 12+6reb, A.Esparza 7+3reb+1ast, S.Soriano 7+1reb+1ast

Halc.Xalapa - Corr.Victoria 93-90

Important game to mention about took place in Xalapa. Fifth ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (8-3) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 8th ranked Correcaminos (5-6) 93-90 on Saturday evening. It looked good early as Correcaminos took an 8-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Halcones UV Xalapa took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 3 points. They made 20-of-22 charity shots (90.9 percent) during the game. Halcones UV Xalapa outrebounded Correcaminos 39-28 including 25 on the defensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 27 assists. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for guard Demetric Shaw (191-78, college: Kent St.) who led his team to a victory with 28 points and 7 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) contributed with 21 points, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Halcones UV Xalapa's coach Andy Stoglin allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. point guard Myron Allen (180-79, college: Lee JC) replied with 25 points and 7 assists and forward Ronald Selleaze (197-76, college: CSU Bakersfield, agency: Dream Team Management) added 23 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Correcaminos. Halcones UV Xalapa have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Barreteros. Correcaminos at the other side dropped to the seventh position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Halcones UV Xalapa will play against Panteras (#12) in Aguascalientes in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Correcaminos will play at home against Volcanes (#14) in Toluca and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Halc.Xalapa: D.Shaw 28+4reb+7ast, D.White 21+4reb+5ast, A.Parada 11+5reb, Q.Gonzalez 8+5reb+1ast, L.Real Aguilar 7+7reb, V.Mariscal 5+3reb+3ast
Corr.Victoria: F.Harris 25+1reb+1ast, M.Allen 25+4reb+7ast, R.Selleaze 23+9reb+2ast, S.Monreal 6+2reb+4ast, D.Rose 4+3reb, J.Penny 3+1reb+3ast

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MONTENEGRO

The history of foreign players in Montenegro. Part one - by Darko Pekic
Who remembers Morris Finley (180-G-81, college: UAB)? The undersized guy from Alabama who conquered the hearts of many fans in Bar with his great ball handling and shooting abilities Or his teammate Wayne Wallace (206-C/F-80, college: Virginia Union), the nephew of Pistons Legend Ben Walace, rebounding machine like his cousin? They both played in Montenegro and did well, so well that after the season they got a lot of offers and moved to better leagues. During the last days of summer we can hear numerous rumors about transfers in Montenegro basketball. Some of them were true ( KK Buducnost signed Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham) whiile KK Mornar got Akeem Scott (186-PG-83, agency: Interperformances, college: High Point)). Their managers can only hope that new arrivals will be as good as two guys mentioned above, or like Tony Stanley (194-SG-77, college: Dayton), the high flying scorer from Arlington (TX). But how to know to pick the right player? Probably nobody knows that.. This is the story about the guys who used Montenegro as a first step in their careers and also a story about others who unfortunately didn't make it and got lost in the world of professional basketball.

Let's start with KK Buducnost, the powerhouse from Montenegro. During the 90's they didn't have foreigners and relied mostly on domestic players. There were rumors about some negotiations with Eurelijus Zukauskas (216-C-73) and Ashraf Amaya (201-F-71, college: S.Illinois). Buducnost was a rich team, with influental people around. They had money to buy almost every player available on the market and they played safe- Buducnost formed an All Star team filled with superstars from Serbia. But the situation changed in the season 2000/2001 when they brought directly from the NBA, Mr. Jerome James (216-C-75, college: Florida A&M) himself! Jerome was a raw talent, 216cm tall with long arms, and soon he became fan favorite in whole Montenegro. People went to the games only to see James, the black beast who dunks all the time. He even destoyed a basketball board in our school in Bar,when he dunked during the warming up. James won the League and cup titles and moved to NBA after that season. He even made a name for himself there, earning 6.5 million dollars for only two games played during the season 2008-2009!!! James retired in 2010. However he can be considered the first real foreign player in Montenegro ( obviously, I don't want to count here players from the Balkan region). James was suceeded by Alexander Okunsky (214-C-71, agency: Court Side), the experienced big man from Ukraine. Okunsky was not very mobile and atractive but he knew how to get the job done. He left at the end of the season and moved to Greek side PAOK. Three years later Okunsky retired from professional basketball.. Alongside Okunsky Buducnost had John Brown (205-C-74, college: Marshall), a terrific rebounder who loved to play with his back to the basket. This guy was really more useful to the team than James, he averaged 15.3ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.6apg in Euroleague but Buducnost failed to repeat the results from 2000/2001 season. Brown continued his career in Spain where he retired two years later. He is now part of the clothing industry.

People probably don't remember well Tony Stanley because after the 'golden ages' Buducnost was not unbeatable any more. But he played great. Tony carried the team on his back while averaging 16,1ppg, 5.6rpg in ULEB Cup and 15.8ppg, 3.2rpg in Adriatic League. After the end of the season he returned to France and he still plays there for SO Maritime Boulogne. As I mentioned before the golden ages were past and the dark age began for Buducnost. The players who followed Stanley in 'blue with' jersey will not be remembered as superstars but we should mention them here also. For example, who remembers Acie Earl (208-F/C-70, college: Iowa), the ex Celtic, the second ex NBA player in Podgorica??? Acie was old when he came to Buducnost and lasted only two months but in the meantime he had good numbers: 17.0ppg, 9.8rpg, 1.4apg, 1.6spg, 2.2bpg in Adriatic League! He then signed in Kosovo and won the league title. In 2005 he was released once again from KK Zadar and decided to quit his successful career. Acie Earl is now the freshman coach at Solon High School, a class 2A school in east central Iowa.

And Shannon Crooks (188-G-78, college: Massachusetts)? Who remembers Shannon Crooks??? The strong guard from University of Massachusetts signed a deal with Buducnost for the season 2002/2003 but didn't play a single game! He was released during the preseason. After that he had some small roles in Portugal and even in Angola (?!). Not much from a player who could have been a solid international point guard. The NYC native, Bryan Bailey (185-PG-80, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Bucknell) ,had the same luck in Buducnost. He was signed and released during the same summer. But the difference between him and Crooks is huge. He still plays in Europe for the German side Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck. Bailey even played in the Euroleague for EWE Baskets Oldenburg (2009/2010).

We can say that Buducnost was not lucky at all with foreign point guards that year. the third was Walsh Jordan (187-G-72, college: Oklahoma City), small guy with a famous surname. But he was miles away from Jordan's style of play. In the Euroleague Jordan averaged 3.9ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.2apg, 1.4spg. and was released after a couple of months. A year later he finished his career in France. And this is not the end of the suffer.His countryman, Troy Coleman (192-G-71, college: Lincoln Memorial) was signed during the 2004/2005 season but he lasted not more than a month! For the records- he played 2 games in Adriatic League and averaged 7 points a game... It seems that Buducnost was his last professional experience. Soon after Coleman, Buducnost got Andre Brown (205-F/C-81, college: De Paul), it's third NBA player! Who would have thought that the 205cm big man from DePaul University, who averaged 8.7ppg and 5.2rpg in 7 games ( released in April) was NBA material? Nobody except him probably. Well, he made it and two seasons later signed a contract with Atlanta Hawks. Brown played three seasons in the NBA for the Sonics, Grizzlies and Bobcats..Now he is a free agent. To save the Kingdom from falling apart Buducnost brought Young David (196-G/F-81, agency: Impact Basketball, college: N.C.Central) in April of 2005. The talented strong shooting guard (Pennsylvania High School Player of the Year in 1999) was drafted by the Sonics in the second round of the 2004 draft and at that time was trying to make a career in the League. 'DY' was a scoring first American and very reliable too. He helped Buducnost to finish the season in a decent way, averaging 21.1ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.6apg in 9 games. He spent the last season in China but his skills are recognized at the highest level. Young also played in Italy, France, Greece..

After a couple of bad years, filled with poor foreign pics, Buducnost decided to dedicate to domestic players. Players like Gordic, Bakic, Sekularac took the scene. But during the season 2008/2009 they decided to test another American. His name was Michael Jenkins (191-G-86, college: Winthrop), and he was fresh out of college. Jenkins passed the test and was given a two year contract, first time in Buducnost history!. Unfortunately, he didn't see much playing time and after the end of the season decided to move to Germany. Now he plays in Belgium for Optima Gent and is doing prety well.

For the 2010/2011 season Buducnost brough Lithuanian sharp shooter Gintaras Kadziulis (193-G-80). He played his role well and didn't disappoint. When the season was over he returned home.

Now we have to see what the new point guard, the National Team member of Canada, Jermaine Anderson, is capable to do.

The history of foreign players in Montenegro. Part two - by Darko Pekic
Although Buducnost is considered the most successful team in Montenegro, with most trophies and titles, it doesn't mean that other teams, at some point in their basketball lifes, did not take a chance with foreign players, trying to sign the potential team leader and fan favorite. Some of them got what they wanted, others got regrets. However, only one team, except Buducnost of course, can be proud on it's Euroleague American. We are talking about Morris Finley (180-G-81, college: UAB) from KK Mornar.

Ex Armani Jeans Milano averaged last year in the Euroleague 11.0ppg, 1.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.1spg and led his team in assists. Two years before that he won everything in Italy with Montepaschi Siena ( League title, Cup and Supercup). But probably only a few passionate fans in Italy know that he started his overseas career in a small club called KK Mornar Bar. 'Mo' arrived in Montenegro at the beginning of the season 2004/2005, after a successful college career where he reached NCAA Sweet 16 with his UAB. In his first season in Europe 'Mo' showed what he is capable of: 23.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.2apg, 2.4spg. Extremely smart, quick point guard with long range, he soon became the absolute team leader and earned respect against giants such as Partizan, Buducnost, Crvena Zvezda etc. Finley left the team in April 2005. He is still considered the best foreigner in Mornar.

Finley's teammate Wayne Wallace (206-C/F-80, college: Virginia Union) was also something special. The nephew of Ben Wallace, the Pistons legend did what people with the surname Wallace do best- grab rebounds and defend! Unlike Finley, he already had some pro experience in Belgium and US minor league but only in Montenegro he got the real chance to prove his worth. Fans and opponents will remember his tremendous blocking ability and dunks. He only averaged 9.3ppg, 6.4rpg but was more useful to the team than the numbers show. After the end of the season he moved to Israel. This season Wallace will play in Ukraine Premier League for Politekhnika-Halychyna.

The year later we saw some other Americans, not as successful as Mo and Wayne. Their replacements were players with excellent reputations though. Julius Barnes (186-G-81, college: Stanford) and Wrenn Doug (203-F-80, college: Washington). Barnes was an intelligent point guard , not as flashy as Finley but very useful to the team. He came from the great school (NCAA Final Eight and Pac-10 Conference Champion in 2001 with Stanford), and already had some european experience while Wrenn was a rookie in Europe. Barnes had good numbers 12.7ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.9spg in the domestic league and left Mornar at the end of the season. He is the only Amercan who played for Mornar twice. After six months he signed again and led the team to the Montenegrin League Semifinals. The same years he was honored the Sportsman of the Year in Bar, the first time in history that a foregner won that award. After the end of the season he returned home. Now he works as assistant coach at Stanford basketball program.

On the other side, Wrenn will probably be remember for his afro haircut and amazing dunks, but he didn't last long. Wrenn was an NBA potential (High School national Top 25 prospect and PAC Newcomer of the Year), very athletic but with problematic reputation. After a couple of seasons in US minor league he came to Mornar but was not ready to adapt to the European style of play and left the team after two or three preseason games. Not much from that kind of potential you would agree.. Wrenn continued his career in Asia but his bad reputation followed him like a ghost. In 2009 he finished in prison because after a car accident he pulled a gun on a woman. Wrenn got 12 months

A year later, point guard Julius Barnes was replaced with Chadwick-Farrell Barnes (190-G-83, college: New Orleans) from New Orleans. Barnes was brought to 'feed' with assists former Oklahoma State talent Anthony Brown (203-F-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Oklahoma St.). Barnes was a tall point guard and did a bit of everything but when you sum it, that was not good enough for Mornar squad. He left the team at the beginning of 2010. Worth to mention are his numbers: 8.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.5apg while shooting 53% from the 3 point line. Barnes is now on try-out with BC Kolin in Czech Republic. His fellow teamamate Anthony Brown was very dominant but he left Bar even earlier, after two months because he had a dispute with his club. Actually, he signed a contract in Portugal but he didnt get the letter of clearance from Mornar. FIBA fined the Montenegro Federation with a 10000 CHF (approx. 7000 EUR) penalty. This penalty was later reduced to 5000 CHF due to Montenegro being new in FIBA. Brown was suspended from international games until the issue was solved. This year he signed a contract in Finland and is doing fine.

Playmaker position was filled with Stallings Nick (190-G-83, college: Centenary). The Centenary star got a chance to start his professional career in Mornar but he failed. After only one game in Balkan league he was released. However, his next experience in Macedonia was much better and he is now shining in China. To replace power forward Anthony Brown, another big man arrived in Bar. His name was Chris Hunter (211-F/C-84, college: Michigan), and he had even greater reputation than his countrymen. Hunter came directly from the NBA! He played with the Knicks and the Warriors. In January moved to Mornar because he needed some playing time. However, an NBA call arrived sooner than he expected and he left the team after a couple of weeks. Hunter signed with the Warriors and still plays in NBA D league.

But Mornar didn't wait long. They found even a greater name, the ex Laker Soumaila Samake (215-C-78) signed a contract till the end of the season! The super tall and thin Mali international spent a couple of seasons in the NBA and toured the world (China, Korea, Slovenia) before arriving in Bar. The coaches had their doubts because his knees were damaged but Samake was signed anyway. The quiet guy from West Africa did well, his numbers in Balkan League speak for itself: 15.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.0bpg. He signed to play in Iran for the season 2010/2011 and during this summer rappresented his National Team in Madagascar ( African Championship)

The last season ( 2010/2011) we saw in action Lebaron Weathers (203-F/C, college: Arkansas-Pine Bluff) and Lance Sullivan (185-G, college: Rogers St.). Weathers had a solid college career and good potential while Sullivan, who came from a small school, was very enthusiastic about this experience. Weathers, like many other Americans, had a hard time to get used to the lifestyle in Europe and after a couple of preseason games he returned to the States. He also tried his luck in Slovakia and Portugal 2nd division after that. Now he is a free agent, looking for a club for next season. Sullivan took his opportunity and gave his contribution. He was known for hard defense, steals and good 3 pont % (over 53%). But after the New Year break they told him not to return in Montenegro because the Club management decided to focus on domestic talents such as Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) or Nemanja Radovic (208-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket).

Other teams in Montenegro didn't make a lot of experiments like Buducnost or Mornar. Of course, one of the reasons was the lack of funding. But it doesn't mean that others didn't give a chance to foregners. For example, KK Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje started the 2008/2009 season with two Americans in their roster, big man Daniel Cromwell (213-C-85, college: Le Moyne) and guard David Jackson (193-G-86, college: W.Illinois). Cromwell started the season well but probably was homesick and decided to leave the team in December. And has never returned to Europe.. He now works as Sales Representative for a Pharmaceutical company based in New York. Jackson stayed longer in Montenegro and after a successful career at Western Illinois proved his qualities in Europe. He averaged 16.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 6.0apg and was the leader of the team in almost every cathegory! After a year in Bijelo Polje he moved to Slovakia, and then signed in Poland where he still plays with success. He won a league title in Slovakia.

A year later, Jedinstvo brought Anthony Jones (194-G/F-84, college: Indiana Tech), hoping that he could repeat Jackson' stats and contribution. Jones was a different player though, a good defender and team player. He started great but in the second part of the season he didn't see much playing time so he decided to move to Germany. Now he plays in Slovakia.

An American played for KK Ibon Niksic, a club with great tradition ( but due to financial problems they changed their name and now are known as KK Sutjeska). His name is Gentry Lewis (206-F/C-81, college: Philander Smith). The husband od Doneeka Hodges Lewis (WNBA player) had a brief experience in Niksic during the 2006/2007 season and didn't leave a great impression. After 10 games Lewis left the team. Although very physical Lewis struggled a lot and was not able to dominate at this level. His playing career continued in Slovenia. Last summer he was seen in Houston as a member of the team Okinawa ( Eurobasket Summer League)

KK Mogren signed also tried that experiment in 2006. They brought Eliot Goren (188-G-83, college: Carnegie Mellon), a white boy from a small school, but he failed to impress the coaching staff in Budva and returned home in December. A month later Goren moved to Germany, played till the end of the season and it seems that he was not able to get any other pro contract after that.

Well, here we are. At the end. I tried to collect here as many information as possible about some past stars but also about guys who were considered poor and not worth that kind of money. This list will probably need an update in the years to come because many more Americans and others are eager to try their luck in Podgorica, Budva, Bar and other Montenegrin cities. The question is- who is the ONE? The time will give us ansfer..

Buducnost signed Milosevic - by Darko Pekic
KK Buducnost announced today that forward Milan Milosevic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) will be the new member of the Club. Milosevic was on try-out with the team from Podgorica and it seems he was good enough to convince Dejan Radonjic to take him. The 26 years old Bosnian international saw limited playing time last summer in Lithuania (only 1 game played: 2 points and 2 rebounds) and now will have a chance to feel the taste of ABA League again. He alredy played in the leading regional basketball league for KK Crvena Zvezda and KK Bosna Sarajevo. Milosevic started the last season in Cyprus (Keravnos) but after a couple of games the Club Management decided to release him. Now he is looking to revive his career in Podgorica.

With the latest signing Buducnost completed the team for the following season. Before the arrival of Milosevic, Buducnost signed Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket), Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC), Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham), Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80), Milivoje Bozovic (210-F/C-85, agency: Beo Basket), Nikola Ivanovic (187-G-94, agency: Beo Basket) and Nemanja Radovic (208-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket)

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MOROCCO

Standings - Men

D1 Standings

1. ASS Sale		0-0
2. CRA Hoceima		0-0
3. FUS Rabat		0-0
4. IRT Tanger		0-0
5. KAC		0-0
6. MAF Fez		0-0
7. PCS Plazza C.		0-0
8. RCA Casabl.		0-0
9. RSB Berkane		0-0
10. WAC Casabl.		0-0

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NBA

Devaluating the NBA Player - by Julius Johnson
If the Federal Reserve were the NBA, Chairman Bernanke would likely say the NBA is on the brink of faltering!

The NBA has cancelled pre-season games, estimated to cost the league $200 Milliion. But of greater concern is the declining credibility of the underlying product, the marketability of the players and the game.

NBA 'star' Deron Williams went 6-28 from the field over two games as Besiktas surprisingly failed to qualify for the Eurocup (a step below Euroleague) regular season.
So, let's get this straight. An NBA star pg playing in his prime could not impact a game against a rag-tag team from Belgium?

He and his NBA buddies are fighting over 3% of BRI?

Look, Deron Williams can play basketball. But we may begin to wonder if he is any better than AJ Slaugher, the unknown guard of DEXIA MONS-HAINAUT.

Did Deron Williams make the NBA or did the NBA make Deron Willliams?

I'm sure the two sides at the negotiating table differ on that answer.

At least Anna Kornakova had something else to offer the viewing public as she got destroyed on the court.

Here is where the lockout really hurts.... Deron Williams is a marketing tools, who happens to play basketball. When he attached himself to Besiktas, his domestic marketing value dropped, because he is no longer exclusive to the NBA. Sure, he might pick up a Besiktas Shipyard endorsement in Istanbul, but he, the Nets, and the NBA will suffer for his abandonment of the hand that feeds him.

Unfortunately, Stern cannot simply lower the Fed discount rate. The only solution is the realization that the long term cost of a lockout will far exceed any short term gains made at the negotiating table.

If the two sides do not act soon, Anna Kornakova has my vote as the first scab to cross the picket lines.

Gasol brothers to practice in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Barcelona says Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) and Marc Gasol (7'0''-C-85, agency: Interperformances) will practice with the Spanish basketball club during the NBA lockout.

Grizzlies center Marc Gasol started practice today with his older brother Pau set to join on Thursday.

Barcelona says the Gasols can practice with their former club 'while the NBA lockout lasts.'

The Los Angeles Lakers' Pau Gasol told Catalan radio RAC1 that 'Barca would be my first option to consider' playing for if the NBA season is canceled. We will wait to see what is gonug to happen. We will wait to see what is going to happen.

Courtesy of www.commercialappeal.com

Pistons' Wallace waives hearing in DUI case - by Eurobasket News
Detroit Pistons centre Ben Wallace has waived his right to a preliminary hearing on charges of drunken driving and unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon.

Wallace and his attorney were in 48th District Court in Bloomfield Hills on Monday and they indicated they would waive a hearing to determine whether there was enough evidence for him to stand trial. The case will move to Oakland County Circuit Court.

Defense attorney Steve Fishman said he would look at reports in the case before deciding how to proceed.

Police in nearby Bloomfield Township said the 37-year-old Wallace was arrested during a traffic stop about 3 a.m. Sept. 24 after officers observed a Cadillac Escalade being driven erratically. Police said they found an unloaded pistol in a backpack.

Courtesy of www.cbc.ca

Extended NBA lockout could hasten the retirement of Tim Duncan - by Eurobasket News
Its long been considered the apocalypse scenario in San Antonio: The NBA lockout devours the entire 2011-12 season, and then Tim Duncan (6'10''-C/F-76, college: Wake Forest) retires.

Duncans contact is set to expire after this season. If the NBA labor impasse winds up cancelling the entire schedule, would the Spurs franchise icon simply retire instead of re-upping for another season in 2012-13, when he will be 36?

In May, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich dismissed the notion that Duncan had played his final game in a Spurs uniform. Speaking at a basketball clinic Saturday afternoon in San Antonio, Tony Parker - Duncans point guard for the past 10 seasons - echoed those doubts.

Asked if a wiped-out 2011-12 season would also mean the end of Duncans career, Parker shook his head.

Courtesy of The San Antonio Express-News blog (via www.insidehoops.com)

Tony Parker officially joins ASVEL - by Eurobasket News
Tony Parker (183-PG-80) officially signed a deal with ASVEL until the end of the NBA lockout. The French superstar will pay insurance by himself and will play for the minimum salary in ProA (1.500 per month). It is important to mention that Parker is a part owner of ASVEL. Tony Parker paced French National Team to Silver at the EuroBasket in Lithuania this summer. He had impressive 22.1 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 1.6 spg for 10 games at this event. Parker heads to ASVEL from the San Antonio Spurs. He joined the Spurs in 2001 and never left them, until now. Last season Parker had 17.7 ppg, 3 rpg and 6.5 apg in 84 games. He was even better in 2008/09. At that time, Parker collected 22.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 6.9 apg. Tony Parker won three NBA rings with San Antonio. They were champions in 2003, 2005 and 2007.

NBA talks break down over money, games in jeopardy - by Eurobasket News
Commissioner David Stern floated it as an idea more than a firm proposal: a 50-50 revenue split.

Even so, the unions reply was unequivocal.

'They said, We can't do it'. according to Stern.

And with that, the remainder of the preseason was lost and the first two weeks of the regular season moved to the brink of cancellation.

The NBA shelved the rest of its exhibition schedule Tuesday and will wipe out the first two weeks of the regular season if there is no labor agreement by Monday.

We were not able to make the progress that we hoped we could make and we were not able to continue the negotiations, Stern said after nearly four hours of talks between owners and players ended without gaining ground on a new deal.

No further meetings are scheduled, making it even more likely the league will lose games to a work stoppage for the first time since 1998-99, when the season was reduced to 50 games.

Stern and Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver said owners offered players a 50-50 split of basketball-related income. Thats below the 57 percent that players were guaranteed under the previous collective bargaining agreement, but more than the 47 percent union officials said was formally proposed to them.

The only numbers that matter now, however, are the millions that stand to be lost when arenas go dark.

The damage will be enormous, Silver said.

Players had offered to reduce their BRI guarantee to 53 percent, which they said would have given owners back more than $1 billion over six years. They say they wont cut it further, at least for now.

And they insist the 50-50 concept wasnt an even split, because it would have come after the league had already deducted $350 million off the top.

Today was not the day for us to get this done, players association president Derek Fisher (6'1''-PG-74, agency: Priority Sports, college: UALR) said. We were not able to get close enough to close the gap.

With superstars like Kobe Bryant, Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett standing behind him, union executive director Billy Hunter said the players proposal would have made up at least $200 million per seasona sizable chunk of the $300 million owners said they lost last season.

Our guys have indicated a willingness to lose games, Hunter said.

The sides are also still divided on the salary-cap structure.

Training camps were postponed and 43 preseason games scheduled for Oct. 9-15 were canceled on Sept. 24. Both sides said they felt pressure to work toward a deal with deadlines looming before more cancellations would be necessary.

Stern said the owners had removed their demand for a hard salary cap, were no longer insisting on salary rollbacks, and would have given players the right to opt out of a 10-year agreement after seven years. But the money split was always going to be the biggest hurdle in these negotiations, with owners insistent on the ability to turn a profit after the league said 22 of its 30 teams lost money last season.

We want to and have been willing to negotiate, but we find ourselves at a point today where we in some ways anticipated or expected to be, faced with a lockout that may jeopardize portions if not all of our season, Fisher said.

After hardly budging off their original proposal for 1 1/2 years, owners finally increased their offer to players from 46 to 47 percent of BRI. It was then that the top negotiators discussed the 50-50 concept, and while Stern sounded disappointed that it didnt work, Silver was more frustrated.

I am not going to get a good night sleep, he said. After this afternoons session, I would say Im personally very disappointed. I thought that we should have continued negotiating today and I thought that there was potentially common ground on a 50-50 deal. I think it makes sense, it sounds like a partnership. There still would have been a lot of negotiating to do on the system elements, but Im personally very disappointed.

On what both sides stressed was an important day, the owners entire 11-man labor relations committee came to New York to meet with 11 players. They could still work something out before Mondays deadline, but neither side sounded optimistic.

Right now, we had our committees, we gave it a really good run, and it didnt work, Stern said.

Hunter said the union would hold regional meetings with its players, set up workout centers and help in other ways. And many playersincluding Bryant, who has been in talks with an Italian teamwill have to decide if they want to explore playing overseas.

And without a deal, the battle could go to the courts. Hunter said the union would have to consider decertification, and on Tuesday a federal court judge scheduled a hearing for Nov. 2 to hear arguments in the leagues lawsuit against the players seeking a declaration that the lockout doesnt violate antitrust laws.

All things both sides hoped to avoid Tuesday.

It wasnt to be, and we dont have any plans right now, Stern said.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Gunobili's agent responds to rumor of Manu to Italy: 'Not true' - by Eurobasket News
Herb Rudoy, Emanuel Ginobili's (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances) Chicago-based agent, said rumors out of Bologna, Italy, that the Spurs star is set to join the Italian team if Lakers star Kobe Bryant declines Bologna's offer are untrue.

Rudoy's text message was emphatic. 'Not true!'

Other sources already had shot down the reports out of Italy that Ginobili was Virtus Bologna's fallback option if Bryant turns down the millions of Euros Virtus is offering. One internet report on Tuesday said Ginobili was committed to Bologna should Bryant turn down Virtus.

We know now for certain that report is not true!

Courtesy of http://blog.mysanantonio.com

Remainder of NBA preseason canceled - by Eurobasket News
The NBA has canceled the remainder of the preseason and will wipe out the first two weeks of the regular season if there is no labor agreement by Monday.

That decision will impact the Oct. 19 preseason game at the RBC Center in Raleigh where the Miami Heat were scheduled to play the Charlotte Bobcats.

Commissioner David Stern and Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver made the announcement after owners and players met for about four hours Tuesday but came no closer to an agreement.

Stern said, 'We were not able to make the progress that we hoped we could make and we were not able to continue the negotiations.'

No further meetings are scheduled.

Courtesy of http://www2.nbc17.com

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NBLCANADA

Jamario Moon joins NBL's Quebec Kebs - by Eurobasket News
Former Toronto Raptor Jamario Moon (6'8''-F-80, college: Meridian CC) is working with the Quebec Kebs of the National Basketball League.

'To confirm, at this point Jamario Moon will join the Kebs at vet camp to practice with the team, stay in shape, and assist Coach (Robert) Spon,' the league tweeted on Tuesday.

Moon is available to work with the Kebs because the NBA players' association has been locked out by the league's owners as part of an ongoing labour dispute.

Jamario Moon finished last season with the Los Angeles Clippers. He joined them in February averaging 3.5 points and 2.5 rebounds in 19 games. Before the Clippers he had 4.7 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 40 games with Cleveland Cavs. Moon played for the Cavs also in 2009/10 season. From 2007 to 2009, he played for Toronto Raptors and later spent some time with Miami Heat. In 2007/08, Moon registered 8.5 ppg and 6.2 rpg for 78 games with Toronto. In the past, Jamario Moon played in USBL, CBA and NBA D-League.

Lightning to hold camp at downtown YMCA - by Eurobasket News
With half of the Canadian contingent having London connections, the city's fledgling National Basketball League of Canada team is set to open training camp Thursday at the downtown YMCA.

South grad Pat Sewell, a guard-forward who starred at Fanshawe College, and former Western Mustangs guard Matt Curtis of Hamilton are among the four Canadians trying out for two of the non-import spots in the roster as mandated by league rules. They'll be joined by former Windsor Lancers forward Isaac Kuon and former Winnipeg Wesmen guard Nick Lother.

From Thursday through Oct. 13, the team will practise daily at the Y from 6-8 a.m. and 1:30-3:15 p.m., although sessions will not be open to the public. However, fans will get a chance to see the players in action and meet with them after an intrasquad game Oct. 12 at Fanshawe, which has a 7:30 p.m. tipoff.

Players will still be vying for a spot on head coach Michael Ray Richardson's final roster, which will be trimmed to its 12-player limit the following day. The Lightning open their preseason schedule Oct. 23 against Oshawa and start the regular season at home to Halifax Nov. 3 at the John Labatt Centre at 7 p.m.

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com

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NCAA1

Missouri's Bowers tears ACL - by Eurobasket News
Missouri senior forward Laurence Bowers (6'8''-F) has torn an ACL in one of his knees and won't play this season.

Missouri coach Frank Haith said Bowers, a Memphis native was a prep standout for St. George's, was injured Monday. Bowers had made 27 starts as a junior last season, averaging 11.6 points and 6.1 rebounds. Bowers has a redshirt season available and would be eligible to return next year.

The 6-8 Bowers finished second in the Big 12 last season with 62 blocked shots. He was 14th in the league in rebounding.

Courtesy of www.commercialappeal.com

Missouri gets OK to look outside of Big 12 - by Eurobasket News
University of Missouri curators voted Tuesday to consider leaving the Big 12 instead of committing to the troubled league for the long term.

The governing boards members agreed unanimously after a 4-hour closed meeting at the systems St. Louis campus to give Missouri chancellor Brady Deaton authority to look elsewhere.

Speculation has centered on a possible Missouri move to the Southeastern Conference, which recently agreed to accept Texas A&M from the Big 12 starting next year. The Big 12 has also lost Nebraska and Colorado to other major conferences.

Deaton said Missouri has not been invited to another conference and that there is no timetable for its decision. Conceivably, Missouri could remain in the Big 12, but the Tigers are officially on the market and the SEC could use a 14th member to balance the league.

Missouri has been a Big 12 member since the conference began 15 years ago and was a charter member of the Big Eight, its predecessor.

Courtesy of www.journalgazette.net

Four Tar Heels lead Wooden Award list - by Rick Ross
Curtesy Of CNN SI.COM
LOS ANGELES (AP)Harrison Barnes (6'8''-F) and three of his
North Carolina teammates are among the 50
players on the Wooden Award's preseason list.

John Henson, Kendall Marshall and Tyler Zeller of the
Tar Heels were also selected for the list by the
Los Angeles Athletic Club on Monday.

Ohio State (Jared Sullinger, William Buford, Aaron Craft)
and Vanderbilt (Festus Ezeli, John Jenkins and Jeffery Taylor)
had three players chosen, while California, Connecticut, Memphis, Syracuse and UCLA all had two.

The Big East had 10 players on the list followed by the
Big Ten with nine and the Southeastern Conference with seven players.
The North Carolina players were the only ones from the Atlantic Coast Conference.

The 36th annual Wooden Award will be presented the weekend of April 6-8.

Kaposvari KFT brings in Andrew Keister - by Interperformances
Ex-Holy Cross power forward Andrew Keister (205-F, agency: Interperformances) has agreed terms for the upcoming season with The Hungarian A division Club Kaposvari KFT. On his Senior Year he collected 12.7 points and 9.0 rebounds per game, netting 50.8 percent (120 of 236) of his field goal attempts. On the season, Keister ranked first in the Patriot League in rebounding, fifth in field goal percentage, 11th in scoring and 11th in blocked shots (0.6). This year Andrew has been named also to the All-Patriot League second team where he averaged 14.1 points and 9.9 rebounds in conference action. He is the 15th player in Patriot League history to earn all-conference honors three times, after being named to the first team in 2008-2009 and the second team in 2009-2010.

Juwan Howard Jr. moves from WMU to Detroit Mercy - by Eurobasket News
Basketball player Juwan Howard Jr. (6'6''-F-92) has transferred to the University of Detroit.

The son of NBA player and former Michigan star Juwan Howard Jr. left Western Michigan's basketball program last month. The 6-foot-6-inch Howard averaged 9.3 points last season for the Broncos.

Detroit spokesman Mitch Wigness says Howard has enrolled and will be eligible to play for the school at the start of the 2012-13 season. He will miss the upcoming one.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Ex-Southern Indiana coach loses NCAA appeal - by Eurobasket News
The NCAA has rejected an appeal from former Southern Indiana coach Rick Herdes to overturn its two-year show-cause penalty for infractions committed at the school.

The ruling, released Tuesday, says there is no basis to overturn the original findings. The penalty means a school wanting to hire Herdes would need to explain its decision to the NCAA.

The Division II infractions committee ruled in February that a former Southern Indiana assistant coach arranged for fraudulent academic credit for one player, provided improper benefits to another and gave false or misleading testimony during the investigation.

The committee said Herdes failed to monitor the activities of that assistant and instructed a second assistant coach to provide impermissible transportation to a recruit.

Herdes resigned in 2009. The school has been put on probation for one year.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

PERU

Superior league: First games of the Playoff Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
First games of the Playoff Quarterfinals are played. You can check the results below. There is also schedule for the second games.

Quarterfinals - Game 1
Sep. 30, 2011 Regatas-San Augustin 115-67
Sep. 30, 2011 El Bosque-Inmaculada 79-55
Oct. 3, 2011 Escuela Fap-Centro Naval 104-79
Oct. 3, 2011 Real Club-Ejercito 92-73

Quarterfinals - Game 2
Oct. 5, 2011 San Augustin-Regatas
Oct. 5, 2011 Inmaculada-El Bosque
Oct. 7, 2011 Centro Naval-Escuela Fap
Oct. 7, 2011 Ejercito-Real Club

*Series is best-of-three. If needed, third games will be played on October 10 and October 12.

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

PHILIPPINES

PBA Roundup; October 2-5, 2011 - by Enzo Flojo
RAIN OR SHINE over BGY. GINEBRA KINGS, 94-93
Rain or Shine 94 - Lee 21, Chan 18, Norwood 11, Buenafe 10, Cruz 8, Quinahan 7, Matias 6, Belga 4, Rodriguez 4, Ibanes 4, Arana 1.
Ginebra 93 - Intal 16, Caguioa 16, Helterbrand 11, Tubid 8, Cortez 8, Wilson J. 6, Canaleta 6, Villanueva 6, Labagala 5, Mamaril 5, Wilson W. 4, De Ocampo 2, Cervantes 0.
QS: 20-19, 44-37, 77-62, 94-93

Paul Lee was as good as advertised, helping Rain or Shine get off to a rousing start
and making coach Yeng Guiao recover somewhat from an act of vandalism on his car. With the No. 2 overall pick either scoring or dishing off, the Elasto Painters hurdled the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

Lee wound up with game highs of 21 points and 8 assists in his PBA debut coming off the bench as Rain or Shine managed to escape with the win despite a blown 16-point lead.

Ginebra came roaring back from 16 points down in the fourth period and had the chance to tie it when JC Intal was awarded three free throws off a foul by JR Quinahan, only 1.3 ticks remaining.

Intal and Jayjay Helterbrand were actually the ones who spearheaded Ginebras comeback, combining for 14 points in the fourth canto, with the formers short jumper making it a 91-93 count, still 41 ticks left. After Intal made the first two of his charities, the third rattled out and John Wilsons follow-up before the final buzzer proved a tad long, prompting Guiao to let out a huge sigh of relief.

Intal and Mark Caguioa each had 16 points to pace Ginebra, which played minus Eric Menk, who is suffering from a pulled calf muscle.

Jeff Chan scored 18 points, including 12 in the third period, while Gabe Norwood added five of his 11 and Jervy Cruz four of his eight in the fourth.

POWERADE TIGERS over SHOPINAS CLCKERS, 98-87
Powerade 98 - David 31, Cruz 15, Vanlandingham 14, Lassiter 10, Antonio 8, Lingganay 6, Kramer 6, Anthony 4, Calimag 4, Adducul 0.
Shopinas.com 87 - Ritualo 19, Sena 15, Duncil 11, Mirza 9, Sison 8, Hermida 7, Espiritu 6, Jazul 6, Menor 6, Canlas 0, Canta 0, Se 0.
QS: 37-16, 55-42, 79-71, 98-87

Despite some run-ins with pesky Ogie Menor, Gary David exploded for 31 points as Powerade blew hot and cold and then hot again in bucking JV Casios absence and notching a victory over gritty Shopinas.com.

Celino Cruz, Joshua Vanlandingham and rookie Marcio Lassiter also churned up at least 10 points each as the Tigers regained in the games last 13 minutes the fiery form that had them racing to two early 24-point leads.

Ren-Ren Ritualo led Shopinas with 19 points with rookie James Sena adding 15 and a game-high 12 rebounds and Jojo Duncil 11 markers, the bulk coming at the height of the Clickers most noteworthy assault.

Duncil, on loan to Petron Blaze in the Boosters successful Governors Cup campaign, scattered nine of his points in the third period that enabled Shopinas to close in at 67-69 and kept it within 70-73 going into the last minute of the third period.

Good thing the likes of rookie Rudy Lingganay, Cruz, David and Vanlandingham were there to provide stability in Powerades endgame stance.

Lassiter, tabbed three notches lower than Casio in last Augusts Draft, capped a 10-point, seven-rebound debut with a floater that made it a safe 93-81 count, 5:04 left.

PETRON BLAZE BOOSTERS over B-MEG LLAMADOS, 73-69
Petron 73 Lutz 19, Cabagnot 17, Santos 11, Miranda 8, Sharma 6, Ildefonso 5, Guevarra 3, Agustin 2, Yeo 2, Baclao 0, Hontiveros 0.
B-Meg 69 Simon 21, Yap 10, Raymundo 10, De Vance 9, Yap R. 9, Ferriols 4, Barroca 2, Reavis 2, Maierhofer 1, Pingris 1, Urbiztondo 0.
QS: 13-22, 36-38, 58-54, 73-69

With a crippled lineup, Petron Blaze worked hard during the off-season to improve its defense. It paid off at least in its first game in the season proper versus B-Meg and its new coach Tim Cone.

The Boosters charged back from an early double-digit deficit and beat out B-Meg in an exciting and thrilling battle watched by a near capacity crowd at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Chris Lutz, a product of the Smart Gilas program, acquitted himself with his pro team right away, putting in big help as Petron spoiled Cones debut with his new team. Lutz came through with a team-high 19 points that went with four rebounds, three steals and one block in 37 minutes of play. He played extended minutes with Dondon Hontiveros hurting his foot just six minutes into the game.

Alex Cabagnot and Arwind Santos likewise dished out solid games helping the Boosters pick up from where they left off last season. Cabagnot fired 17 points, including seven of their last nine, while Santos started the season with a double-double performance with 19 rebounds and 11 markers.

It was a good win for the Boosters, who needed to rally from a 10-point deficit, 6-16, early on.

They closed in at the half, 36-38, and stormed ahead, 45-38, at the outset of the third before the Llamados had their counter-chase to the tone of the fierce endgame battle.

Source: PBA.ph

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

POLAND

Standings - 2 Liga

2Liga Standings

Group A
1. GKK Gorzow		2-0
2. Ksiezak Lowicz		2-0
3. Open Florentyna		2-0
4. Zuraw Gniewno		2-0
5. Astoria Bydg.		1-0
6. AZS PP Poznan		1-1
7. AZS UWM Olsz.		1-1
8. Zyrardowianka		1-1
9. KK Swiecie		0-1
10. Korsarz Gdansk		0-2
11. SMS PZKosz		0-2
12. Trefl II Sopot		0-2
13. Wilki Morskie		0-2
Group B
1. AZS AWF K-ce		2-0
2. Pogon Prudnik		2-0
3. Slask II W.		2-0
4. WKK Obiekty		2-0
5. BM Wegiel Stal		1-1
6. Nysa Klodzko		1-1
7. AZS AGH Alstom		1-1
8. MCKiS Jaworz.		1-1
9. HK Zory		1-1
10. Alba Chorzow		1-1
11. GTK Gliwice		0-2
12. Mickiewicz		0-2
13. MKS Skierniew.		0-2
14. UMKS Piotrc.		0-2
Group C
1. Novum Lublin		2-0
2. PWiK Piaseczno		2-0
3. Unia Tarnow		2-0
4. Handlopex AZS		1-0
5. UMKS Kielce		1-1
6. MKS Limbach		1-1
7. Wisla AWF Kr.		1-1
8. Staco MNLK		1-1
9. AZS II Polit.W-wa		1-1
10. Tur Bielsk Pdl.		0-1
11. Pulaski Warka		0-2
12. Rosa II Radom		0-2
13. UKS Siemaszka		0-2

Asseco Prokom Gdynia won the opener of the Kondrashin and Belov Cup - by Eurobasket News
Asseco Prokom Gdynia - Kalev Tallinn 90:64

Asseco Prokom Gdynia won the opener of the Kondrashin and Belov Cup. The Polish side overcame Kalev Tallinn 90:64 and will face Spartak in the Final.
Asseco Prokom Gdynia started with 22-19 in the first period and increased to 8 more points in the second frame. The Polish side enjoyed 46:35 at the halftime. The second half also belonged to Prokom. The Polish team needed 21-10 in the third period and even won the last quarter 23-19 for the massive win.
Donatas Motiejunas (213-F/C-90, agency: Interperformances) and Adam Hrycaniuk (208-C-84, college: Cincinnati) top-scored for the winners with 15 points each, while ZAMOJSKI Przemislaw netted 14. Alonzo Gee (198-G-87, college: Alabama) followed them with 11 points in win. Marko Riis (188-G-85) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort and Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) delivered 11. Nikolay Varbanov (209-C-85, agency: Interperformances) and Armands Skele (192-G-83) scored 10 points each in defeat.

Asseco Prokom Gdynia: Donatas Motiejunas 15, Adam Hrycaniuk 15, ZAMOJSKI Przemislaw 14, Alonzo Gee 11
Kalev Tallinn: Marko Riis 14, Gert Dorbek 11, Nikolay Varbanov 10, Armands Skele 10

Asseco Prokom lands point guard Oliver Lafayette - by Eurobasket News
Its official now. Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston) became a new member of Asseco Prokom. The American point guard signed a deal for the next season. He started the last one with Partizan Belgrade averaging 8.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists in six Euroleague games. Lafayette also added 10.2 ppg, 4 rpg and 4.2 apg for them in six Adriatic league appearances. They parted ways in November and Lafayette immediately joined NBA D-League team Fort Wayne Mad Ants. He shined there with 16.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 3.6 apg for 21 games. In March, Oliver Lafayette finally joined Israeli Maccabi Ashdod, where he finished last season. In the past, he played in Mexico. Oliver Lafayette graduated at the University of Houston four years ago. In his career he played one NBA game with the Boston Celtics.

Trefl Sopot win 2011 Investgas Sopot Cup - by Eurobasket News
Trefl Sopot - Slask Wroclaw 83:73

Trefl Sopot clinched the title at the pre-season 2011 Investgas Sopot Cup. The hosts overcame Slask Wroclaw in the title game. Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) stepped up with 17 points to pace the winners.
Slask got to the better start. The visitors posted a 22:21 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Slask Wroclaw established a 41:39 halftime advantage. But Trefl Sopot turned things around in the third frame. The hosts went on a 24:15 run to post a 7-point cushion heading into the fourth frame. Trefl Sopot kept their opponents at bay throughout the final term and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. John Turek (205-F/C-83, college: Nebraska) accounted for 13 points, while Lukasz Wisniewski (186-G-84, agency: Promotex, college: Barton County CC) added 12 points in the victory. Slavisa Bogavac (200-G/F-80, agency: BeoExcell) answered with 19 points for Slask Wroclaw. Aleksandar Mladenovic (207-F/C-84, agency: BeoExcell) notched 14 points in defeat.

Trefl Sopot: Lukasz Koszarek 17, John Turek 13, Lukasz Wisniewski 12
Slask Wroclaw: Slavisa Bogavac 19, Aleksandar Mladenovic 14

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RUSSIA

Superleague Standings

1. TEMP-SUMZ		2-0
2. Univ.Surgut		2-0
3. Ural Ekaterinb.		2-0
4. Ataman		0-0
5. Metallurg-Univ.		0-0
6. Rjazan		0-0
7. Spojuz Zaretch.		0-0
8. Ruskon-Mord.		0-2
9. Severstal		0-2
10. Spartak V.		0-2

Standings - Superleague A

PBL Standings

1. CSKA		0-0
2. Enisey		0-0
3. Khimky		0-0
4. Krasnie Krilya		0-0
5. Lokomotiv		0-0
6. N.Novgorod		0-0
7. Spartak SP		0-0
8. Spartak-Prim.		0-0
9. Triumph		0-0
10. Unics		0-0

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

RWANDA

Country Pulls Out of 2013 Afrobasket Race - by Eurobasket News
RWANDA have withdrawn their bid to host the next Afrobasket men's championship, Times Sport can establish. The country submitted their bid in August and was odds on favorites to win due to Fiba-Africa's zonal rotational policy.

However, the Secretary General of the national basketball federation (Ferwaba) Jean Lucien Mugabo yesterday revealed that inadequate modern gymnasiums had forced them to reconsider.

'We have good hotels and transport facilities but are still short when it comes to modern gymnasiums,' the official said before promising that, 'We will bid for the 2015 edition because we hope that another modern gymnasium will have been built in Nyanza.'

Rwanda's withdraw means that the race to host the 2013 edition is between Tunisia and Ivory Coast.
Courtesy of: The New Times

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

SERBIA

KAO Dramas brings in Dragan Ceranic - by Eurobasket News
Dragan Ceranic (212-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) is back to Greece. The Serbian center joined KAO Dramas for the next season and it will be his first time in A2. Ceranic spent last season with Polish Trefl Sopot. He appeared 33 times in PLK averaging 10.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists. He helped them reach Playoff Semifinals. From 2006 to 2010, Dragan Ceranic played in Greece. First he was a member of GS Larissa and later moved to Panellinios Athens. In 2007/08, Ceranic played for AEL 1964 Larissa and next season for Kolossos. In 2009/10 he averaged 5.7 points and 5.1 rebounds for 26 games with Kavala. In the past, Dragan Ceranic played in France, Ukraine, Italy, Hungary, Cyprus, Serbia and Montenegro.

Hemofarm signs Aleksej Nesovic - by Eurobasket News
Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Hemofarm. The 26-year-old guard signed a deal for the next season. He played the last one for Buducnost Pogdorica helping them to win the Montenegrin league title and National Cup. Nesovic also appeared 15 times in Adriatic league with Buducnost averaging 5.6 points, 1.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists. They reached Semifinals. Aleksej Nesovic already was a member of Hemofarm and it was in 2006/07 season. Actually, he joined them in December and helped to reached Adriatic league and Serbian league Semis. Nesovic also has experience from Borac Cacak, Aliaga, Olimpija, Prokom, Fuenlabrada, Crvena Zvezda etc. He is active member of the Bosnian National Team since 2007. Nesovic appeared once at the EuroBasket in Lithuania.

Stevan Milosevic signs with Trabzonspor Basketbol - by Interperformances
The Serbian Center Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) has reached an agreement with newly promoted team in Turkish TBL, Trabzonspor Basketbol. Stevan brings in his basketball career experience gained with different European Clubs such as: Buducnost (Serbian A1), Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (Austrian- A.Bundesliga), Red Star (SerbiaS- A League), Koeln (German- 1Bundesliga). In the previous two seasons; Stevan started the 2009/10 season with BC Partizan Igokea Beograd where he played also in Euroleague and won the Serbian Cup. In February he moved in France where he joined JDA Dijon Bourgogne in the Pro A league. In January 2011 he signed at BC Nizhny Novgorod in the Russian PBL, moving one month later to Proteas Danoi AEL,helping the team to qualify for the Cypriot finals averaging during the playoffs: 12.8ppg, 10.3rpg and 1.4apg.

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

SLOVAKIA

Standings - D1

Extraliga Standings

1. Nitra		2-0
2. Nova Ves		2-0
3. Prievidza		2-0
4. Komarno		1-0
5. Svit		1-1
6. Vahostav-Zilina		0-1
7. B.Bystrica		0-2
8. Handlova		0-2
9. Levice		0-2

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

SLOVENIA

Krka clinch SuperCup title - by Eurobasket News
Krka - Union Olimipja 80:72

Krka clinched the first trophy of the season. They overcame Union Olimpija to celebrate SuperCup title. Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, college: S.Florida) stepped up with 20 points to pace the winners.
Krka grabbed the initiative in the opening frame. They registered a 20:13 lead after ten minutes of action. Union Olimpija adjusted their offence in the second frame. The Slovenian powerhouse got within 6 points at the interval 31:37. But Krka did not allow their opponents to take over in the second half. Nenad Trajkovic team controlled the tempo posting a 56:48 lead with ten minutes to go. Krka unloaded 24 points in the fourth frame and rallied to a confident win at the end. Curtis Stinson (187-G-83, college: Iowa St.) posted 18 points, while Jerome Jordan (213-C-86, college: Tulsa) contributed 11 points for the winning team. Danny Green (198-G/F-87, college: N.Carolina) answered with 19 points for Union Olimpija. Aleksandar Capin (186-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket) notched 15 points in the loss.

Krka: Jimmy Baxter 20, Curtis Stinson 18, Jerome Jordan 11
Union Olimpija: Danny Green 19, Aleksandar Capin 15

Dragisa Drobnjak heads to Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in Belgium. The experienced Slovenian player signed a short term deal with Telenet Oostende. He will replace injured Tomas Van den Spiegel, who will be out 6 to 8 weeks. Drobnjak already played for Oostende a year ago. He spent there second half of the 2009/10 season. Drobnjak appeared 26 times for the club that season averaging 6.9 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 steals. Oostende won the Belgian Cup. Dragisa Drobnjak spent last season with Krka Novo Mesto. They won the Slovenian league title, as well as EuroChallenge. Drobnjak averaged 7.5 points and 4 rebounds for 21 games in Slovenia. He also added 4.5 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.2 apg for 17 games in EuroChallenge.

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SOUTH KOREA

KT Sonic Boom Win Twice in Preseason Play - by Jeff Liebsch
The KT KT Sonic Boom are picking up where they left off last season - winning games. They defeated Mobis Phoebus 98-82 in Ulsan Wednesday night, their second win in three days.

Charles Rhodes (203-F/C-85, college: Mississippi St.) was unstoppable, pouring in a game high 36 points and 12 rebounds in 33 minutes. He also blocked two shots. Pyo Myung-Il (182-G-75)l added 13, while Park Sang-Oh (196-F-81) chipped in 11 for KT.

KT jumped out to a 47-35 halftime lead, before putting the game out of reach in the third quarter, outscoring Ulsan 26-17.

Malcolm Thomas (206-F-88, college: San Diego St.) led Ulsan with 30 points, 16 rebounds and 6 assists.

Earlier in the week, in their preseason home opener, they easily ran by the Changwon LG Sakers 93-67.

KT came out running, doubling LG 28-14 by the end of the first quarter, and taking a commanding 48-25 halftime lead. Cho Dong-Hyun (188-G-76) led the attack hitting four 3-pointers for 23 points in the game. The balanced scoring attack by KT had five players with double digit points. Charles Rhodes had 9 points and 6 rebounds in a little under 20 minutes of play.

LG was led by Moon Tae-young, with a game high 26 points.

Standings

KBL Standings

1. Sonic Boom KT		2-0
2. Anyang KGC		1-0
3. Daegu Orions		1-0
4. ET Land		1-0
5. Dongbu Promy		1-1
6. KCC Egis		0-1
7. LG Sakers		0-1
8. Mobis Phoebus		0-1
9. Samsung Th.		0-1
10. SK Knights		0-1

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

SPAIN

Real Mardid wins CAM tournament - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid won the XXVIII edition of 'Torneo de la Comunidad de Madrid'. They handed 79-68 loss to Estudiantes to take this trophy. Sergio Rodriguez (191-G-86) and Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) led Real Madrid with 15 points each. Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) scored 14 points and Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) added four less. On the other side, Antoine Wright (201-F/G-84, college: Texas A&M) responded with 15 points for the Students. Their second scorer was Flores with 10 points.
In the first game on this tournament, Estudiantes grabbed 70-68 win against Fuenlabarda. German Gabriel (207-C-80) stepped up for Estu with 15 points. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) exploded with 28 points in defeat. Real Madrid was placed directly to the Finals.

Another injury for Caja Laboral, Joey Dorsey out 2-3 weeks - by Eurobasket News
Caja Laboral faced with another problem. Their latest addition Joey Dorsey (206-C/F-83, college: Memphis) injured his left hand (thumb dislocation) and will miss 2-3 weeks. It means that he will not be ready for the beginning of ACB and Euroleague. He will miss couple of games for sure. The player joined Cajal Laboral ten days ago.
Joey Dorsey spent the last season in the NBA. He played for the Toronto Raptors. His stats read 3.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per appearance. Previously Joey Dorsey had stints with the Houston Rockets, Sacramento Kings and D-Leagues Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Joey Dorsey was the member of the USA National Team back in 2007. He participated at the PanAmerican Games. The centre posted 3.0 points and 3.4 rebounds per game in Rio de Janeiro.

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

SWEDEN

Lf and Sundsvall favorites to win Gold 11/12 - by Johan Andersson
LF Basket and Sundsvall Dragons favorites to win Gold 11/12

1. LF Basket
2. Sundsvall Dragons
3. Norrkoping Dolphins
4. 08 Stockholm
5. Uppsala Basket
6. Boras Basket
7. Solna Vikings
8. Sodertalje Kings
9. KFUM Jamtland Basket
10.Eco Orebro

Good luck for all teams !!!

TANZANIA

JKT Stars Sweep Aside Tan Blacks - by Eurobasket News
Dar es Salaam The Temeke District Basketball League continued on Sunday with JKT Stars trouncing Tan Blacks 60-26 at TTC Sigara courts.JKT Stars, who flopped in last seasons Kili RBA League, stupefied their opponents with pace and scored points galore in quick succession.

The winners and runners-up of the league organised by Dar es Salaam Basketball (DB), will qualify for the RBA League, one of the biggest basketball events in the country.Despite the defeat, Tan Black played their hearts out, and periodically, gave their highly-fancied opponents a reality check.

The game attended by a handful of fans saw JKT Stars make a bright start to the game and pinned Tan Black to their own half.The army team rattled Tan Black rearguard to take a convincing 27-8 lead until the end of the first quarter.

JKT did not stop to trouble their clueless opponents and the remaining quarters saw them add 33 more points while Tan Black notched 18 only.Frank Simkoko was JKT Stars' hero after burying 20 points, thus emerging the best scorer of the one-sided game.

In another enthralling match played at the same venue Chang'ombe United laboured to edge out hard-fighting PTW Stars 43-42. ABC, who were to play Cargo, earned a walkover after their opponents failed to show up for the match.

In Ilala District, Magone were indeed a class above Airwing after cruising to an emphatic 108-43 win at Don Bosco courts. Magone started the game on a high tempo and managed to take a 28-11 lead in the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Magone scored 23-11 and until the halftime break they were leading 51-22.

The third quarter was no different as Magone scored 37-11 before winding up with the 20-8 win in the last quarter.

Meanwhile, Prisca Melecela reports that Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) has suspended all matches to give the teams room to participate in the Zone V championships opening on Saturday.

The two-week Zone V Championships will feature over 15 teams from East and Central Africa.
Courtesy of: The Citizen (Dar es Salaam)

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

TUNISIA

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. AS Hammamet		0-0
2. ASC Bizerte		0-0
3. C Africain		0-0
4. C Cheminots		0-0
5. CA Bizerte		0-0
6. ES Rades		0-0
7. ES Sahel		0-0
8. ESG		0-0
9. Ezzahra		0-0
10. JS Kairouan		0-0
11. JS Manazeh		0-0
12. Stade Nabeulien		0-0
13. Tunisair		0-0
14. US Monastir		0-0

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

TURKEY

Stevan Milosevic signs with Trabzonspor Basketbol - by Interperformances
The Serbian Center Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) has reached an agreement with newly promoted team in Turkish TBL, Trabzonspor Basketbol. Stevan brings in his basketball career experience gained with different European Clubs such as: Buducnost (Serbian A1), Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions (Austrian- A.Bundesliga), Red Star (SerbiaS- A League), Koeln (German- 1Bundesliga). In the previous two seasons; Stevan started the 2009/10 season with BC Partizan Igokea Beograd where he played also in Euroleague and won the Serbian Cup. In February he moved in France where he joined JDA Dijon Bourgogne in the Pro A league. In January 2011 he signed at BC Nizhny Novgorod in the Russian PBL, moving one month later to Proteas Danoi AEL,helping the team to qualify for the Cypriot finals averaging during the playoffs: 12.8ppg, 10.3rpg and 1.4apg.

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

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

VI SPECIAL OPERATIONS BASKETBALL TEAM MAKES HISTORY!!! (updated) - by David Edole
For the first time in the history of high school basketball, the Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands have joined forces as one team in an effort to conquer all rivals in the Delaware High School Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Youth Basketball Tournament. 12 high profile high school basketball players, all from the VI/BVI but currently residing between Maryland, Delaware and Philadelphia will compete as one unit in the 9 week tournament. The only suitable name for this force to reckon with is VI SPECIAL OPERATION (VISO). Unity, sportsmanship and teamwork are just a few of the core values of the VISO Team. Each week their union strengthens as they take the court where their natural talent of basketball and a knack for winning is displayed. It takes tremendous efforts of planning, organization and coordination each week to get the players to and from the tournament but it is guaranteed that when the VISO Boys takes the court, the VI/BVI presence is fully felt in the Arena each and every week. The team is coached by community activist and mentor, Mr. Sheniko Frett, a VI/BVI native. The players representing this wonderful force are Deon Edwin (Captain), Norville Carey (Captain), Alex 'Ackhel' Basil, Xavier Richards, Agyei Gregory, Javier Martinez, Kahllid Hart, Rasheed Swanston, Shakiel Humphrey, Ryan Alfred, Amadius Der-Weer, and Reavaun Garraway. Honorable Mentor: Judge Roslyn Townson

Video of some of the players:

Javier Martinez

Khallid Hart

Deon Edwin

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UKRAINE

Lans Harris joins Politekhnika-Halychyna - by Eurobasket News
Politekhnika-Halychyna are looking for the ways to improve their performance. The Lviv team started the season with two losses in a row. So they decided to strengthen their backcourt. The team has agreed on terms of contact with Lans Harris (195-G-83, college: Kansas St.). The guard started the previous season in Bosnia. He played for Igokea Aleksandrovac. His stats read 9.8 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game in Adriatic League. Later Lans Harris moved to Ikaros in Greece. The guard notched 13.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in A1 League. Lans Harris finished the season in Italy. He produced 9.8 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals per LegaDue appearance for Umana Reyer. Lans Harris was Greek All-Star Game Slam Dunk Contest winner in 2011.

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Budivelnyk		2-0
2. Khimik		2-0
3. Mykolaiv		2-0
4. Azovmash		1-0
5. Cherkasy		1-0
6. BC Kyiv		1-1
7. Hoverla		1-1
8. Ferro-ZNTU		1-1
9. Dnipro		0-0
10. BC Odessa		0-1
11. Kryvbasbasket		0-1
12. BC Donetsk		0-2
13. DniproAzot		0-2
14. Halychyna		0-2

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Eric COLEMAN
  Hoverla
  (200-C-85)
  Avg: 19.5

1. Coleman, Hoverla	19.5
2. Tiggs, Hoverla	17.5
3. Greene, Hoverla	14.5
4. Minard, Azovmash	14.0
5. Pecherov, Azovmash	14.0
6. Ewing, Azovmash	14.0
7. Walker, Hoverla	13.5
8. Crispin, Azovmash	12.0
9. Rancik, Azovmash	11.0
10. Kolchenko, Azovm.	8.0

Rebounds Per Game

Eric COLEMAN
  Hoverla
  (200-C-85)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Coleman, Hoverla	8.5
2. Rizvic, Azovmash	8.0
3. Ewing, Azovmash	7.0
4. Pecherov, Azovmash	7.0
5. Lemyk, Hoverla	6.5
6. Greene, Hoverla	5.5
7. Swanson, Hoverla	5.0
8. Tiggs, Hoverla	5.0
9. Minard, Azovmash	3.0
10. Rancik, Azovmash	3.0

Assists Per Game

Dante SWANSON
  Hoverla
  (178-PG-81)
  Avg: 6

1. Swanson, Hoverla	6.0
2. Ewing, Azovmash	5.0
3. Walker, Hoverla	5.0
4. Crispin, Azovmash	3.0
5. Pecherov, Azovmash	2.0
6. Minard, Azovmash	2.0
7. Tiggs, Hoverla	1.5
8. Greene, Hoverla	1.5
9. Bayda, Azovmash	1.0
10. Slipenchuk, Azovm.	1.0

Steals Per Game

Kevin TIGGS
  Hoverla
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 3

1. Tiggs, Hoverla	3.0
2. Minard, Azovmash	3.0
3. Kolchenko, Azovm.	2.0
4. Crispin, Azovmash	1.0
5. Ewing, Azovmash	1.0
6. Walker, Hoverla	1.0
7. Coleman, Hoverla	0.5
8. Dubnyuk, Hoverla	0.5
9. Gerasimchuk, Hover.	0.0
10. Rancik, Azovmash	0.0

Blocks Per Game

Hasan RIZVIC
  Azovmash
  (212-C-84)
  Avg: 4

1. Rizvic, Azovmash	4.0
2. Pecherov, Azovmash	2.0
3. Coleman, Hoverla	2.0
4. Ewing, Azovmash	1.0
5. Gerasimchuk, Hover.	0.5
6. Silkovskyy, Hoverla	0.5
7. Greene, Hoverla	0.0
8. Bayda, Azovmash	0.0
9. Rancik, Azovmash	0.0
10. Lemyk, Hoverla	0.0

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UNITED KINGDOM

Standings - BBL

BBL Standings

1. Plymouth R.		1-0
2. Sheffield S.		1-0
3. Durham W.		0-0
4. Glasgow Rocks		0-0
5. Leicester R.		0-0
6. Leopards		0-0
7. Mersey Tigers		0-0
8. MK Lions		0-0
9. Newcastle E.		0-0
10. Worcester W.		0-0
11. Cheshire Jets		0-1
12. Guildford Heat		0-1

BBL Team Of The Week - Week 1 - by Paul Nilsen
BBL players fight it out to make the coveted line-up as Team Of The Week returns at the start of what promises to be another exciting season.

The first weekend of the new campaign was jammed with players either making their debuts for new clubs, their British Basketball League debuts or indeed in some instances, their full debuts as professional players. Our fantastic five includes four such players who were all pulling on their team colours for the first time.

Joe Chapman (193-G-84, agency: I.D.S. Law, college: Marquette) (Newcastle Eagles)

One of the leading players last season in the quest for a regular slot in the BBL Team of The Week before his season was cut short by a serious injury, Chapman picked up where he left off. He was the only returnee to make our starting five after heading back to Tyneside to light-it up and show he is already back somewhere near his best. He poured in a game high 23 points for the Eagles against the Glasgow Rocks at Sport Central. The shooting ace also added six rebounds and three assists.

Cameron Rundles (185-PG-88, college: Wofford) (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)

Playmaker Cameron Rundles is the man entrusted by Riders' Head Coach Rob Paternostro to help pull the strings for his team this year in the backcourt and the play-caller can be satisfied with his first nights work. The guard was excellent as his team collected an opening night win against Prestige Homes MK Lions. He showed his combo skills by claiming 19 points including five successful attempts from downtown as well as a fantastic nine assists in an all-action display to leave home fans desperate to see more.

Ayron Hardy (195-F-88, college: Jacksonville) (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)

Hardy will certainly remember his first game at the pro-level after producing a really energetic and encouraging performance in the victory over the Lions. The Jacksonville graduate finished with 18 points from a highly efficient 9 of 12 floor shooting display and also showed why he is known for his defensive skills with his quick hands helping him to three steals in addition to pulling down six rebounds.

Andy Thomson (Newcastle Eagles)

Having won titles last season with arch rivals Mersey Tigers, Thomson gave the Eagles fans an early glimpse as to why he was one of the difference makers for the BBL Champions. Despite by his own admission, enduring something of a frustrating opening during the early stages against Rocks, the forward still managed to cruise to a stellar contribution of 19 points and 17 rebounds and promised there was even more to come during forthcoming months.

Justin Dobbins (203-C/F-87, agency: I.D.S. Law, college: E.Michigan) (One Health SharksSheffield)

It was a great weekend for One Health Sharks Sheffield who completed a hard fought BBL Trophy win double against Cheshire Jets. It had looked like their trip to Northgate might end up in a loss after a poor third quarter but the efforts on the glass of the former Worcester Wolves big man was pivotal in securing consecutive successes. Dobbins claimed a phenomenal double-double of 21 points and 21 rebounds and it could have been even truly spectacular had it not been for a relatively mediocre shooting performance.

Off The Bench

Charles Smith (Newcastle Eagles), Demarius Bolds (Prestige Homes MK Lions), Paul Williams (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders), Colin O'Reilly (Cheshire Jets), Lehmon Colbert (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

Raftopoulos Remains Positive - by Paul Nilsen
After a weekend that saw his Guildford Heat team suffer two narrow losses, coach Creon Raftopoulos believes there were positive signs for the Surreyclub.

'We only had two full team practices going into the weekends games and also had the unfortunate situation in our big man Herman Opoku not getting his international clearance,' said the Heat play-caller after they lost 93-87 in overtime at Worcester Wolves and 95-91 at home against UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders.

'I felt the guys gave a good account of themselves and Brandon [Shingles] fitted into his role perfectly for his first game with the team. We controlled the Worcester game for most parts and had chances to win it in the last 30 seconds but failed to convert on two tough challenged lay-ups.

'In overtime our free-throw shooting let us down and we that's where we lost the game as Worcester made their free throws and we never. Tayo [Ogedengbe] had had big game playing out of position and Mike Martin, Julius [Joseph] and Martelle [McLemore] were their usual consistent selves. Dean Williams and Albert Magai played some crucial minutes for us with Mike and Brandon fouling out early in the fourth.'

Martelle McLemoreSunday's game against Plymouth saw Heat give up a big lead to narrowly lose against the Raiders, but Raftopoulos wasn't too despondent: 'I strongly feel Raiders have the talent to finish at the top this season with the team they have put together so to lose a game by four points on the second game of a back-to-back weekend gives us plenty to be excited about.

'We ran out of gas in the fourth quarter and Plymouth are an experienced team that took advantage of it. Mike, Martelle and Brandon all fouled out and a couple of untimely missed free throws on a day we shot well from the line let us down. We have to improve our shot selection especially when we have a lead as some bad shot selection lead to easy fast break points for Plymouth. I was happy with the team performance, Brandon ran the the point well, Mike battled down low with [Paul] Williams who had the size advantage and we got spread scoring from Tayo, Julius and Martelle.'

With no game this weekend, Raftopoulos is looking for his side to work hard and prepare for the trip to Newcastle Eagles on October 14: 'Having a week off will help us to work on conditioning and players learning our offences and defensive rotations. It would be nice to get a friendly in but most clubs in EBL 1 who would give us a good game are scheduled to play in their competitions.

'We are always trying to improve on all aspects of our game as individuals and a team. We gave up a number of offensive rebounds this weekend so will look to improve on boxing out and rebounding. Herman Opoku will have his clearance confirmed for our next game which will help us a lot in the post.'

City Of Edinburgh Kings Join BBL Cup Comp - by Paul Nilsen
The BBL have today announced that the City of Edinburgh Kings SM have accepted an invitation to play in the BBL Cup competition this season.

The decision sets up a mouth watering 1st Round clash which will see the Kings take on the Glasgow Rocks, on Sunday 30th October at Kelvin Hall.

The Kings play in the Scottish Basketball League (SBL) and currently sit top of Division One with an unblemished 4-0 record having also won the SBL title in 8 of the last 9 seasons.

Rocks General Manager Daniel Bajwoluk enthused, 'We are genuinely thrilled at the prospect of playing the Edinburgh Kings in the first round of the BBL Cup. The Kings are the team to beat within the Scottish National Basketball League, and it will be interesting to see how the two premier Scottish teams fair against one another come 30th October. It is sure to be a local derby that many Scottish fans will be eager to witness.'

Kings Head Coach Douglas Reilly added, 'We are delighted to have been given this opportunity to play in the BBL Cup. The players and coaching staff are eagerly looking forward to pitting ourselves against the Glasgow Rocks, in a game that will be an excellent test of our abilities.'

The teams have met once in BBL Competition previously, with the Rocks coming out on top when the two sides meet in the pool stages of the 2006-7 BBL Trophy.

Super Six Signings For Tigers - by Paul Nilsen
The Mersey Tigers have today announced the signing of six players to their roster.

The Tigers guard department will be led by up and coming GB Guard Devan Bailey (187-G-89, college: Cent.Conn.St.). The 6'2' 22 year old, a product of the Manchester Magic Junior programme, joins the Tigers following completion of his college career at Central Connecticut State University.

Joining Bailey in Tigers' backcourt will be 29 year old Dutch passport holder, Matthew Otten. The 6'5' guard played in the BBL with the Cheshire Jets back in the 2007-8, before playing the last two seasons in the Dutch League.

The Tigers will have no shortage of experience in the front court with the addition of BBL veteran Calvin Davis. The move sees a return to the Tigers for the prolific 6'8' forward who has also played eight seasons just down the road with the Jets in a BBL career that stems back to 2001.

Rising star Myles Hesson joins the Tigers front line following an injury plagued debut BBL season last term. The 21 year old 6'5' forward started his debut BBL season in explosive form before an injury cruelly prevented him from playing the majority of the of the season.

Another exciting addition to the front line will be 25 year old Canadian Kris Douse (6'6'). Douse comes to the Tigers following completion of a successful college career at Point Park University in the USA.

Former Tigers junior James Griffiths also returns to the club.

Head Coach Tony Garbelotto will lead his new look team into action twice this weekend, commencing their campaign with a home game against One Health Sharks Sheffield on Friday night (7.30pm at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park - Tickets available on the door) before visiting the Cheshire Jets on Sunday (5.30pm @ Northgate Arena).

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URUGUAY

Standings - LUB

LUB Standings

Capital
1. Defensor		4-0
2. Bohemios		3-0
3. Malvin		3-0
4. Hebraica		2-0
5. Aguada		2-1
6. Un.Atletica		2-2
7. Guruyu Waston		2-2
8. Olimpia		2-2
9. Welcome		2-2
10. Montevideo		2-2
11. Cordon		1-2
12. Trouville		1-3
13. Sayago		1-3
14. Bigua		1-3
15. Cader		0-3
16. Larre Borges		0-3
Littoral
1. Anastasia		0-0
2. Juventus Salto		0-0
3. Remeros		0-0
4. Universitario S.		0-0
5. Wanderers		0-0
South
1. Flores Trinidad		0-0
2. Lagomar		0-0
3. Lavalleja		0-0
4. Maldonado		0-0
5. Plaza		0-0

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VTB UNITED LEAGUE

Standings

VTB United League Standings

Group A
1. Enisey			2-1
2. Unics			1-0
3. Zalgiris			1-0
4. Anwil			1-2
5. Budivelnyk			0-0
6. Khimky			0-0
7. N.Novgorod			0-0
8. VEF Riga			0-0
9. BC Astana			0-1
10. Kalev/Cramo			0-1
Group B
1. Krasnie Krilya			3-0
2. Asseco Prokom			0-0
3. Azovmash			0-0
4. CEZ Nymburk			0-0
5. CSKA			0-0
6. Lietuvos rytas			0-0
7. Lokomotiv			0-0
8. Minsk-2006			0-0
9. Spartak SP			0-0
10. Siauliai			0-2

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ZIMBABWE

HBA League Gets Underway - by Eurobasket News
MBARE Heats look to be the team to beat when the Harare Basketball Association League gets underway at Richwood today.

Over the past season the HBA had been turned into a circus with factions fighting for the control of the strongest affiliate to the Basketball Union of Zimbabwe.

But the factions have buried the hatchet and are playing once again under a unified league.

And the financially strong Mbare Heats, known as the Moneybags in the league, showed their strength of character last weekend when they won the Ghetto League Basketball at DZ courts.

The GLB served as a warm-up tournament to the HBL and Mbare Heats have already taken a favorites' tag when they take on Glen View Pistons today.

Another title contender in the HBL will be perennial powerhouse Raiderz, who are still have Norest Shenje in their line-up, while Sigauke can also not be ruled as they have a shrewd coach in Roderick Takawira.

Sigauke were in the wilderness in the last season because of the boardroom squabbles that tainted the league.

Carlos Munda, the spokesperson for the unified HBL, believes the fights are a thing of the past and hopes Harare will reclaim its stake as the strongest league in Zimbabwe.

'We are playing under one unified league called the HBA and the top league has 18 men's teams and an equal number for women.

'There are 12 teams playing in the B- League and we hope to play exciting games until the end of the season some time in March next year.

'Now that we are united, I call upon teams to be serious with their games so that we retain the confidence of the stakeholders like fans and sponsors,' said Munda.
Courtesy of Herald

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Women News

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ANGOLA - Women

Local Mission to United Nations Commends African Champions - by Eurobasket News
New York The Angolan Permanent Diplomatic Mission to the United Nations has commended the country's national senior females basketball team on winning last Sunday the African championship (Afrobasket2011), which took place in Mali.

Angola's first female continental title was won after the country beat Senegal, last Sunday, by 62-54, in the final game played in Bamako City.

The Angolan permanent representative at the UN, in New York, Ismael Gaspar Martins, highlighted the spirit of determination and sacrifice of the players, the wise instructions of the technical team, as well as the good leadership of federation officials and the Youth and Sports Ministry.

The diplomat added that this victory gives more value to Angolan women and prestige to national coaches, as well as contributes to the promotion of Angola's image in the world, thus dignifying the people.
Courtesy of: Angola Press

AMUD Praises Female Basketball Team's Sense of Nationhood - by Eurobasket News
Luanda Angola's winning the first African senior females basketball championship, disputed in Mali, demonstrates the sense of nationhood of Angolans and women in particular.

This comes on a note released by the Angolan Association of Women and Sport (AMUD),

signed by the institution's chairwoman, Teresa Quarta.

The document states that besides sports area, Angolan women have been able to affirm themselves in various domains of the society, with emphasis on sectors like health, education and politics.

On the note it is considered that the conquest of the Afrobasket title, which also qualified the

country for the 2012 London Olympics, clearly shows the potential of Angolans, which stands out more since the country achieved peace in 2002.

'The Angolan Leila Lopes was elected Miss Universe 2011, in September, in So Paulo,

Brazil', reads the note.

The Angolan senior female basketball squad last Sunday in Bamako, Mali, beat Senegal by

62-54, in the final game of the African Nations Cup (Afrobasket2011).

Meanwhile, the Angolan player Nacissela Maurcio was considered Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the competition and was also elected to be among the Ideal Team (five players) alongside her compatriot, Snia Guadalupe.
Courtesy of Angola Press

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Belinda Snell makes her WNBL return this Friday - by Eurobasket News
One of Australian basketball's most decorated international players will return to the WNBL this Friday night when Belinda Snell (181-F-81) takes the floor for Sydney Uni in their season opener against the AIS.

The dual Olympic silver medallist and 2006 World Championship star arrived in Sydney last Friday and jumped straight into training with her Southern Design Flames team-mates.

Ironically, her return to the WNBL will be against the AIS, where she started it all as a promising junior from Mirboo North in regional Victoria.

After forging a brilliant career in the EuroLeague and the WNBA, Snell returns to the WNBL this year as part of preparations for the 2012 London Olympics.

A versatile scorer and underrated defender, the Jayco Opals star has been one of the most successful Australian players to play in Europe with two final four appearances.

Flames coach Karen Dalton said it was a terrific bonus for the team and the WNBL to have the respected Snell back.

'Belinda is respected internationally not only for her ability and talent, but for the way she goes about her basketball, she said.

'She will bring scoring to the table, but most importantly is a winner who will help our young players tremendously.'

Snell will reunite with long time Flames and Opals teammate Alicia Poto in Friday's season opener against some of the rising talent of Australian basketball in the young AIS team.

Poto and Snell both started their careers under the guidance of respected AIS mentor Phil Brown in the 90's.

Tip-off for the big clash at the Sydney Uni Sports and Aquatic Centre is 7pm and tickets are available at the door.

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

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BRAZIL - Women

AD Vagos keep Brazilian Lilian Lopes and bring Flavia de Souza - by Eurobasket News
AD Vagos keep Brazilian Lilian Lopes (184-F-79) and bring Flavia de Souza (187-F-82) for the upcoming season. The latter played for Acucar Cometa/Unimed/Catanduva (LBF, starting five) last season and in 19 games averaged 7.8ppg, 5.1rpg, FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 60.7%. She recorded 19 points at the Regular Season Round 2 when Joinvillelost to Acucar 56-99.
In 2010-2011 Lilian Lopes played in EuroCups 5 games and averaged 14.0ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 35.5%, FT: 76.5%. In Portuguese League after 21 games she showed 13.5ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.5apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 36.6%, FT: 65.8%. She recorded with 26 points at the Qualifying Round Round 5 in EuroCup as AD Vagos lost to Nantes 75-95. Jenna Smith and Yuliya Andreyeva led the winning side with 19 and 14 points respectively. Sabine Niedola and Joyce Coussenis-Smith added 13 points apiece in win. On the other side, Lilian Lopez led the way for Vagos with 26 points.

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

ZBL Round 4: USK Praha keeps a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
There were just four rounds played in Regular Season of ZBL and we can clearly see which teams will fight for top positions and which will try to avoid bottom places. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked USK Praha as it allowed them to take a leadership position. USK Praha smashed bottom-ranked DSK Karlin at home 100-32. The game without a history. USK Praha led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding DSK Karlin to just 6 points in fourth quarter and to 14 points in first half. USK Praha held DSK Karlin to an opponent 20.6 percent shooting from the field compared to 50.7 percent accuracy of the winners and made 24-of-30 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game, while DSK Karlin scored 0 point from the stripe. USK Praha forced 26 DSK Karlin turnovers and outrebounded them 47-36 including a 34-23 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 4 passes made by DSK Karlin's players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when USK Praha made 8 blocks. 24 personal fouls committed by DSK Karlin helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Delisha Milton-Jones (186-74, college: Florida, agency: Josep and Nicolas) who helped to win the game recording 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Spanish forward Anna Montanana (186-80, college: George Washington, agency: Josep and Nicolas) contributed with 17 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Center Irena Spirkova (191-82) replied with 6 points and 16 rebounds for DSK Karlin. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Undefeated USK Praha (5-0) have an impressive five-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Newly promoted DSK Karlin still closes the standings with five games lost. DSK Karlin will play next round against strong VS Praha trying to get back on the winning streak. USK Praha will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked VSE Praha. It will be extra interesting game as VSE Praha is their local rival from Praha.

Other games in round 4 were not that significant. Trutnov beat Valosun Brno on the road 73-59. Strakonice destroyed DSK Karlin on its own court 88-39. Slovanka MB outscored Pardubice in Vodochody 75-48. VSE Praha recorded a loss to Karlovy Vary at home 66-84. Hradec Kralove was defeated by VS Praha on the opponent's court 85-74. Frisco Sika was beaten by VS Praha in a home game 74-77.
The most impressive performance of 4th round was 33 points (!!!) and 13 rebounds by Petra Reisingerova of VS Praha.

Valosun Brno - Trutnov 59-73

No shocking result in a game when top-ranked Kara Trutnov (4-0) beat on the road 9th ranked Valosun Brno (1-3) 73-59 on Monday. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 73-59. Kara Trutnov outrebounded Valosun Brno 47-30 including a 33-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a very good performance for center Lenka Vetrovcova (188-84) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds. The former international forward Hana Snajdrova-Ziklova (183-80) contributed with 9 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Kara Trutnov's coach Martin Petrovicky used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Swingman Veronika Vlkova (176-84) replied with 15 points and 6 rebounds and center Pavla Svdrlkova (185-90) added 9 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Valosun Brno. Kara Trutnov have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 4-0 record behind leader USK Praha. Valosun Brno lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with three games lost. Kara Trutnov will face Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary (#7) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Valosun Brno will play against Aldast Strakonice.
Top scorers:
Valosun Brno: V.Vlkova 15+6reb+2ast, I.Borecka 14+3reb+1ast, P.Svdrlkova 9+8reb+3ast, E.Mrhalkova 9, E.Kmetova 7+3reb+1ast, M.Zatloukalova 3+2reb
Trutnov: L.Vetrovcova 19+10reb+3ast, K.Hindrakova 10+7reb, D.Misurova 10+4reb+1ast, H.Snajdrova-Ziklova 9+12reb+1ast, I.Komzikova 8+4reb, K.Novakova 6+2reb+1ast

Strakonice - DSK Karlin 88-39

Rather expected game when bottom-ranked DSK Karlin (0-5) was smashed on the road by eighth ranked Aldast Strakonice (2-2) 88-39 on Saturday. The game without a history. Aldast Strakonice led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding DSK Karlin to 0 points in third quarter. Aldast Strakonice held DSK Karlin to an opponent 23.1 percent shooting from the field compared to 47.5 percent accuracy of the winners and made 27-of-32 free shots (84.4 percent) during the game, while DSK Karlin only scored seven points from the stripe. They outrebounded DSK Karlin 46-19 including a 32-12 advantage in offensive rebounds. DSK Karlin was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for forward Katerina Krizova (186-80) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds. Power forward Jitka Musilova (185-84) contributed with 16 points and 8 rebounds (made all of her eight free throws) for the winners. Five Aldast Strakonice players scored in double figures. Center Irena Spirkova (191-82) replied with 11 points and 6 rebounds and forward Veronika Rybova (176-91) added 11 points in the effort for DSK Karlin. DSK Karlin's coach Daniel Kurucz gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Aldast Strakonice moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Karlovy Vary and VSE Praha. Newly promoted DSK Karlin still closes the standings with five games lost. Aldast Strakonice will face higher ranked Frisco Sika (#4) in Brno in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. DSK Karlin will play at home against VS Praha (#3) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
DSK Karlin: V.Rybova 11+1reb, I.Spirkova 11+6reb, A.Hunkova 5+1reb, P.Horakova 4+1ast, B.Emmelova 4+1reb, V.Rozhina 2+2reb
Strakonice: K.Krizova 22+7reb+1ast, J.Musilova 16+8reb, Z.Mracnova 11+2reb+1ast, Z.Skrabalova 11+13reb, M.Uhrova 10+3reb+1ast, Z.Paroubkova 6+3reb

Pardubice - Slovanka MB 48-75

Rather predictable result when eighth ranked Basket Slovanka MB (2-1) rolled over bottom-ranked BK Pliska Studanka (0-4) in Pardubice 75-48 on Sunday. The game without a history. Basket Slovanka MB led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding BK Pliska Studanka to just 6 points in second quarter. Basket Slovanka MB forced 25 BK Pliska Studanka turnovers and outrebounded them 44-28 including 30 on the offensive glass. It was a very good performance for center Linda Tesarikova (178-78) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Petra Pospisilova (180-84) contributed with 14 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four Basket Slovanka MB players scored in double figures. Center Renata Brezinova (189-90) replied with 10 points and 8 rebounds and center Marketa Jedlickova (187-94) added 12 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for BK Pliska Studanka. 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. Basket Slovanka MB moved-up to fifth place. BK Pliska Studanka at the other side still closes the standings with four games lost. Basket Slovanka MB will have a break next round. BK Pliska Studanka will play on the road against Sokol Hradec Kralove (#9) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Pardubice: M.Jedlickova 12+5reb, R.Brezinova 10+8reb, H.Kramperova 6+1reb+1ast, B.Habetinkova 5+3reb+1ast, C.Quintana 3+3reb, P.Jirkova 3+1reb
Slovanka MB: L.Tesarikova 16+8reb+1ast, P.Pospisilova 14+8reb+1ast, H.Nezdarilova 11+5reb+6ast, L.Sipova 10+5reb+3ast, E.Dujsikova 6+5reb, M.Satoranska 4+3reb

Frisco Sika - USK Praha 82-86 OT

USK Praha needed overtime to overcome Frisco Sika in Czech classic rivalry. Delisha Milton-Jones stepped up with 23 points and 16 rebounds to pace USK Praha to the victory. USK Praha stayed undefeated after the win, while Frisco Sika suffered the first defeat of the season. The hosts led by as many as 4 points at the interval. However USK Praha stepped on the gas in the second half and eventually levelled things up forcing overtime. The visitors proved strength in the extra period claiming a tough win at the end.
Top scorers:
Frisco Sika: F.Abdi 29+17reb+3ast, T.Peckova 18+7reb, R.Hejdova 16+4reb, A.Hanusova 15+11reb+1ast, M.Palenikova 2+1reb, M.Stalvant 1+1reb
USK Praha: D.Milton-Jones 23+16reb+1ast, A.Montanana 20+10reb, F.Eldebrink 11+7reb, K.Elhotova 11+3reb, E.Viteckova 9+4reb+1ast, M.Zrustova 4+2reb

VSE Praha - Karlovy Vary 66-84

There was a minor upset when one of their biggest challengers VSE Praha (2-2) lost at home to tenth ranked Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary (2-2) 84-66 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 12-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84-66. Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary made 23-of-27 free shots (85.2 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 VSE Praha turnovers. It was a very good performance for forward Sarka Kucerova (181) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 7 rebounds (made all of her nine free throws !!!). Slovakian forward Lucia Krc-Turbova (185-87) contributed with 11 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. International guard Darina Johnova (178-85) replied with 18 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Andrea Sladkova (187-91) added 10 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for VSE Praha. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Strakonice and VSE Praha. Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary will face league's second-placed Kara Trutnov at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.
Top scorers:
VSE Praha: D.Johnova 18+5reb+1ast, A.Sladkova 10+7reb, D.Eshe 9+4reb+1ast, A.Filarova 8+4reb+1ast, J.Krizova 6, P.Kubusova 5+1reb
Karlovy Vary: S.Kucerova 21+7reb+2ast, S.Pospisilova 16+1ast, L.Krc-Turbova 11+6reb+1ast, B.Novocka 8+3reb+2ast, M.Bestagno 8+1reb+1ast, B.Sedlackova 7+1reb+1ast

VS Praha - Hradec Kralove 85-74

Everything went according to plan when fourth ranked VS Praha (3-1) defeated at home 7th ranked Sokol Hradec Kralove (1-3) 85-74 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 44-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. VS Praha outrebounded Sokol Hradec Kralove 40-27 including 29 on the offensive glass. It was a very good performance for center Petra Reisingerova (195-73) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 13 rebounds. Belarusian point guard Alexandra Tarasava (170-88) contributed with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Forward Tereza Kuthanova (180-87) replied with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Klara Rosenbaumova (182-90) added 10 points and 4 assists in the effort for Sokol Hradec Kralove. VS Praha have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place. Sokol Hradec Kralove lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with three games lost. VS Praha will face bottom-ranked DSK Karlin (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Sokol Hradec Kralove will play against BK Pliska Studanka in Pardubice and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hradec Kralove: T.Kuthanova 17+8reb+5ast, K.Rosenbaumova 10+3reb+4ast, K.Zavazalova 10+3ast, L.Bartakova 9+5reb+2ast, M.Hartigova 9+3reb, M.Stara 9+3reb+3ast
VS Praha: P.Reisingerova 33+13reb+2ast, A.Tarasava 15+5reb+4ast, K.Elhotova 11+8reb, T.Vyoralova 8+6reb+1ast, T.Vorlova 7+3reb+2ast, V.Mircheva 7+1reb+2ast

Round 19

Frisco Sika - VS Praha 74-77

Frisco Sika (3-2) was edged by fourth ranked VS Praha (3-1) in Brno 77-74 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 14 points at the halftime before their 41-24 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. VS Praha dominated on the defensive end, holding Frisco Sika to just 7 points in third quarter. They outrebounded Frisco Sika 49-29 including a 31-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for VS Praha especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.9 percentage. It was a very good performance for Ukrainian center Viktoria Mircheva (190-87, agency: LBM Management) who helped to win the game recording 24 points and 9 rebounds (perfect from downtown making all five shots). Center Petra Reisingerova (195-73) contributed with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Swedish forward Farhiya Abdi (188-92) replied with 16 points and 9 rebounds and international power forward Alena Hanusova (189-91) added 19 points in the effort for Frisco Sika. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. VS Praha have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place. Defending champion Frisco Sika dropped to the fourth position with two games lost. VS Praha will face bottom-ranked DSK Karlin (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Frisco Sika will play against Aldast Strakonice (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Frisco Sika: A.Hanusova 19+4reb, F.Abdi 16+9reb, R.Hejdova 13+1ast, J.Thomas 13+7reb+2ast, T.Peckova 9+2reb+3ast, M.Stalvant 4+3reb
VS Praha: V.Mircheva 24+9reb, P.Reisingerova 14+11reb+1ast, K.Elhotova 12+2reb+2ast, A.Tarasava 10+7reb+3ast, T.Vyoralova 9+7reb, H.Smidkova 3+3reb

USK Praha - DSK Karlin 100-32

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked USK Praha as it allowed them to take a leadership position. USK Praha smashed bottom-ranked DSK Karlin at home 100-32. The game without a history. USK Praha led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding DSK Karlin to just 6 points in fourth quarter and to 14 points in first half. USK Praha held DSK Karlin to an opponent 20.6 percent shooting from the field compared to 50.7 percent accuracy of the winners and made 24-of-30 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game, while DSK Karlin only scored 0 point from the stripe. USK Praha forced 26 DSK Karlin turnovers and outrebounded them 47-36 including a 34-23 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 4 passes made by DSK Karlin's players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when USK Praha made 8 blocks. 24 personal fouls committed by DSK Karlin helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Delisha Milton-Jones (186-74, college: Florida, agency: Josep and Nicolas) who helped to win the game recording 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Spanish forward Anna Montanana (186-80, college: George Washington, agency: Josep and Nicolas) contributed with 17 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Center Irena Spirkova (191-82) replied with 6 points and 16 rebounds and forward Katerina Ciperova (180-83) added 9 points in the effort for DSK Karlin. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. USK Praha (5-0) have an impressive five-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Newly promoted DSK Karlin still closes the standings with five games lost. DSK Karlin will play next round against strong VS Praha trying to get back on the winning streak. USK Praha will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked VSE Praha. It will be extra interesting game as VSE Praha is their local rival from Praha.
Top scorers:
DSK Karlin: K.Ciperova 9+3reb, I.Spirkova 6+16reb+2ast, A.Vechtova 4+6reb, P.Horakova 4+4reb+1ast, B.Emmelova 4+5reb+1ast, A.Buldrova 3+2reb
USK Praha: D.Milton-Jones 23+7reb+4ast, A.Montanana 17+3reb+4ast, E.Viteckova 16+5reb+2ast, F.Eldebrink 11+3reb+1ast, P.Kulichova 8+11reb+1ast, I.Burgrova 8+7reb+2ast

Standings - ZBL (W)

ZBL Standings

1. USK Praha		5-0
2. Trutnov		4-0
3. VS Praha		3-1
4. Frisco Sika		3-2
5. Slovanka MB		2-1
6. Strakonice		2-2
7. Karlovy Vary		2-2
8. VSE Praha		2-2
9. Hradec Kralove		1-3
10. Valosun Brno		1-3
11. Pardubice		0-4
12. DSK Karlin		0-5

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ETHIOPIA - Women

Ethiopians Coming for Dar Meet - by Eurobasket News
Dar es Salaam Ethiopia is among eight countries that have so far confirmed participation in this year's East and Central Africa basketball championship opening on Saturday at the National Indoor Stadium.

Basketball Federation of Tanzania (BFT) secretary general, Alexander Msoffe said yesterday that preparations and logistics for the event also called Zone Five tournament were on course.

He said foreign teams would each field two teams in the week-long championship, and Tanzania will enter six teams by virtue of being the hosts.

The BFT secretary named the other countries lined up for the biggest basketball club championship in the region as Somalia, Southern Sudan, Kenya, Burundi, Uganda and Rwanda.

'This year's tournament will involve both men and women's teams,' said Msoffe, adding that foreign teams would start arriving in the country two days before the championship starts.

He named the country's flag bearers in the tournament as Jeshi Stars, Lady Lion and Cargo Ladies (women), Savio, ABC and Vijana (men).

Meanwhile, Minister for Information, Youth, Culture and Sports, Emmanuel Nchimbi (pictyred) has challenged the National Sports Council (NSC) to take keener interest in turning around the country's sports fortunes.

Addressing sports officials from various sports bodies yesterday, Nchimbi voiced concern over the downward trend of the country's sports standard and exhorted the new NSC leadership to arrest it before its three-year term in office ends.

Nchimbi said it was high time the council and national sports associations came up with workable strategies that can pave the way for local teams to fare impressively in international competitions.

Speaking at the same occasion, newly appointed NSC chairman Dioniz Malinzi urged officials of national sports associations to refrain from embezzlement of funds meant for sports development. hii ya michezo,' alisema Malinzi.

Nchimbi appointed Malinzi as the new NSC chairman last month.

The minister also appointed the council's members, who include NSSF director general, Ramadhani Dau, Tanzania Sports Writers Association (TASWA) chairman Juma Pinto and his vice Maulid Kitenge.

Also in list are MPs Jenister Mhagama (Peramiho) and Mkiwa Adam Kimwanga (Special Seat-CUF), Jamal Rwambow, Venance Mwamoto, Jeniffer Mmasi, Alex Mgongolwa, Colonel Eliot Makafu and Cyprian Maro.
Courtesy of: The Citizen (Dar es Salaam)

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EUROLEAGUE - Women

Perfumerias Avenida clinched SuperCup in Salamanca - by Eurobasket News
Perfumerias Avenida- Elitzur Ramla 95:72

Perfumerias Avenida clinched SuperCup in Salamanca in the first title defense of the season. The Spanish outfit rolled over the winner of the EuroCup Elizur ramla 95:72. Perfumerias Avenida, being the Euroleague champion looked better in every aspect and rightfully clinched the victory.
Isabel Sanchez (180-F-76, agency: Josep and Nicolas) gave the Spanish team the first lead from the perimeter and Vajda scored for 19:14. Antoja closed the frame from a long range for 26:20 and Sonja Kireta (198-C-76) increased to 6 more points early in the second. Fernandez brought 40:29 and Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90, agency: Josep and Nicolas) nailed three for 55:31. Shay Doron (175-F-85, college: Maryland) reduced to 72:55 in the third frame, while Katia Levitsky (190-C-85, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Villanova) scored four in a row for 78:64. Fernandez was the last to score in the game to finish as a top-scorer of the game.
Marta Fernandez (178-F-81) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Marta Xargay Casademont followed her with 22. Isabel Sanchez nailed 15, whilst Sonja Kireta added 12. Shay Doron ended up with 19 points in the losing effort and Katia Levitsky posted 15. Laine Selwyn (170-G-81, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Pittsburgh) chipped in 12 and Jackson produced 10.

Perfumerias Avenida: Marta Fernandez 23, Marta Xargay Casademont 22, Isabel Sanchez 15, Sonja Kireta 12
Elitzur Ramla: Shay Doron 19, Katia Levitsky 15, Laine Selwyn 12, Jackson 10

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HUNGARY - Women

Round 1 - best performances - by Adam Patonay
Virag Szalay (172-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group), the guard of ZTE scored 20 points with 4 rebounds and 4 steals on the game away at BSE and take the victory.

Bettina Bozoki (190-F/C-89) helped her team to reach the very important win in Miskolc. The legendary DKSK came back to the league and most probably will be again one of the hardest home court. Bozoki scored 18 points plus added 4 rebounds and 3 assists.

The team of UNIQA Euroleasing Sopron won by 74 points in the capital city against BSE on the season starter day of the federation. Five players - Horti, Krivacevic, Kurasova, Hanecz and Krnjic - scored over 10 points what shows the power of the title holder.

Lilla Horvath (182-F-90, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) and her Pecs officially could sign players and start the season. It was the most important for the fans of the big club. This season they'll not the same roster than the years before but the legendary 'Pecs-Heart' is stayed, what Horvath showed with her play, 14 points, 5 rebound, 6 steals and 7 fouls against her...

Krisztina Kovacs (185-F-80) from FTC scored 24 points with 64% and added 6 rebounds and 4 assists, so FTC also started with easy win.

A league, round 1 best performance: Sara Krnjic - by Eurobasket News
Serbian center Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) put on an extraordinary performance for UNIQA Eurol. receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 1. The 20-year old player had a double-double of 18 points and 17 rebounds, while her team outclassed BSE-FCSM (#11, 0-2) with 76-point margin 101-25.

The second best player in first round games was 31-year old Krisztina Kovacs (185-F-80) of Nanette FTC. Kovacs had a very good evening with 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. She lead Nanette FTC to comfortable win outscoring ELTE-BEAC (0-1) 73-52. Her team has extremely good start of the season. They won their first game. However the season is at the beginning, so everything can happen. They still may lose their high position in the standings. Kovacs is a newcomer at Nanette FTC, but is already one of team's top players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.0ppg (#2). Her other stats are also decent: 6.0rpg and 4.0apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was former international guard Zsofia Simon (180-G-89) of SEAT-SZESE (#5). Simon scored 19 points. She was a key player of SEAT-SZESE, leading her team to a 82-52 easy win against Cegledi EKK (#8, 0-1). SEAT-SZESE has a very good start of the season. But there was just one game played, so it's too early to judge them at this stage. Simon also has a very good start of the season with very strong stats. The season just started for Simon as she played only first game. But it already looks like she can be team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Brankica Hadzovic (175-G-81) of DKSK - 25 points and 7 rebounds
5. Olexandra Kurasova (186-F-86) of UNIQA Eurol. - 16 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Maja Skoric (184-F-89) of DKSK - 17 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Anita Teilane (196-C-85) of Vasas - 14 points and 8 rebounds
8. Hanna Zavecz (182-F/G-85) of UNIQA Eurol. - 13 points and 3 rebounds
9. Dora Horti (195-C-87) of UNIQA Eurol. - 16 points and 5 rebounds
10. Virag Szalay (172-G-84) of ZTE - 20 points and 4 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)

Start of the new season - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in A League just started. Coincidentally all visitors won their games.

DKSK - Bajai NKK 69-71

The guests trailed by 21 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 2 points. Strangely DKSK outrebounded Bajai NKK 38-26 including 23 on the defensive glass. Power forward Bettina Bozoki (190-F/C-89) (190-89) stepped up and scored 18 points for the winners and forward Petra Szabo (183-87) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds. At the losing side Serbian guard Brankica Hadzovic (175-81) responded with 25 points and 7 rebounds and Serbian forward Maja Skoric (184-89) scored 17 points and 5 steals.
Top scorers:
DKSK: B.Hadzovic 25+7reb+1ast, M.Skoric 17+4reb+3ast, O.Farkasinszki 10+13reb, J.Budimir 10+7reb+1ast, N.Czirjak 5+5reb+4ast, B.Ocsenas 2+1reb
Bajai NKK: B.Bozoki 18+4reb+3ast, M.Scekic 15+3reb+2ast, P.Szabo 15+6reb+2ast, G.Szepsi 10+3reb+2ast, A.Zygaite 8+1reb, A.Theodoran 5+6reb+2ast

BSE-FCSM - ZTE 50-65

The game was mostly controlled by ZTE. BSE-FCSM was better in second period 15-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding BSE-FCSM to just 7 points in third quarter. ZTE forced 22 BSE-FCSM turnovers. BSE-FCSM was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Virag Szalay (172-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) stepped up and scored 20 points and 4 steals for the winners and international center Zsofia Horvath (191-82) chipped in 9 points and 10 rebounds. At the losing side guard Viktoria Orso (176-86) responded with 10 points and forward Klara Tiba (193-81) scored 10 points and 5 rebounds.
Top scorers:
BSE-FCSM: K.Tiba 10+5reb+1ast, V.Orso 10+4reb+3ast, D.Szondy 6+4reb, D.Mihaczi 5+1reb+1ast, M.Hegedus 4+2reb, M.Bagi 4+2reb+3ast
ZTE: V.Szalay 20+4reb+1ast, Z.Horvath 9+10reb+1ast, O.Zsovar 9+4reb+1ast, Z.Varga 9+4reb+1ast, T.Czukor 6+5reb, S.Ambrus 5+3reb+1ast

ELTE-BEAC - Nanette FTC 52-73

The game was mostly controlled by Nanette FTC. BEAC-Ujbuda was better in second period 19-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nanette FTC forced 24 BEAC-Ujbuda turnovers and outrebounded them 43-26 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Forward Krisztina Kovacs (185-80) nailed 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and international forward Anna Vida (184-85, agency: TSS Management) accounted for 18 points. Forward Szilvia Horvath (179-86) came up with 8 points and 8 rebounds and guard Emese Szasz (170-88) added 13 points respectively for BEAC-Ujbuda in the defeat.
Top scorers:
ELTE-BEAC: E.Szasz 13+2reb+1ast, K.Csicsai 11+2reb, S.Horvath 8+8reb+2ast, S.Katona 6+1reb+3ast, J.Zsamar 4+8reb+1ast, V.Havasi 4+1reb+2ast
Nanette FTC: K.Kovacs 24+6reb+4ast, A.Vida 18+3reb, O.Englert 9+8reb+4ast, N.Rujak 6+6reb+1ast, J.Barnai 6+3reb, P.Russai 5+6reb+1ast

Vasas - Pecs 2010 37-65

The game without a history. Pecs 2010 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Vasas to just 5 points in second quarter. Pecs 2010 dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Vasas' 22. Pecs 2010 forced 21 Vasas turnovers. Vasas were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Lilla Horvath (182-90, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) stepped up and scored 14 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and Quigley chipped in 12 points. At the losing side forward Lilla Adamecz (181-92) responded with 8 points and 8 rebounds and Latvian center Anita Teilane (196-85) scored 5 points, 6 rebounds and 5 blocks.
Top scorers:
Vasas: L.Adamecz 8+8reb, V.Bajnoczi 7+2reb, A.Teilane 5+6reb+2ast, K.Velkey 5+4reb, S.Pusztai 4+2ast, A.Mansare 4+4reb
Pecs 2010: L.Horvath 14+5reb, Quigley A. 12+2reb+2ast, L.M. 10+5reb, A.Pilav 9+5reb+1ast, K.Raksanyi 9+2reb+2ast, N.Sarok 4+5reb+3ast

Atomeromu - UNIQA Eurol. 44-78

The game without a history. MKB Euroleasing led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Atomeromu to just 5 points in first quarter. MKB Euroleasing dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Atomeromu's 32 and made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. MKB Euroleasing forced 25 Atomeromu turnovers and outrebounded them 40-15 including a 20-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. Australian swingman Hanna Zavecz (182-85) fired 14 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Serbian center Sara Krnjic (193-91) chipped in 7 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Dora Medgyessy (174-86) produced 8 points and international forward Reka Fejes (186-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) added 8 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Atomeromu: D.Medgyessy 8+1reb+3ast, R.Fejes 8+2reb+1ast, M.Cvetanovic 8+2reb+1ast, R.Balint 7+2reb+1ast, T.Licina 5+1reb+1ast, D.Zele 5+1reb
UNIQA Eurol.: H.Zavecz 14+7reb+1ast, T.Krivacevic 13+7reb+1ast, Z.Fegyverneky 10+1reb+4ast, D.Furesz 9+2reb, D.Horti 8+6reb, S.Krnjic 7+9reb+5ast

Cegledi EKK - SEAT-SZESE 52-82

The game without a history. SEAT-SZESE led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 27-of-29 charity shots (93.1 percent) during the game, while Cegledi EKK only scored ten points from the stripe. SEAT-SZESE forced 22 Cegledi EKK turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Zsofia Simon (180-89) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 4 steals (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). The former international forward Nora Bujdosi (185-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) contributed with 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four SEAT-SZESE players scored in double figures. Polish guard Katarzyna Cymmer (172-89) answered with 10 points and 6 rebounds and forward Zsoka Ruttner (184-89) added 11 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Cegledi EKK. Cegledi EKK's coach Gabor Ujhelyi gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Cegledi EKK: Z.Ruttner 11+6reb+1ast, A.Serban 10+1reb, K.Cymmer 10+6reb+3ast, K.Orban 7+1reb+1ast, R.Ruttner 6+3reb, M.Dobrowolska 5+3reb+2ast
SEAT-SZESE: Z.Simon 19+4reb+2ast, N.Bujdosi 12+8reb+1ast, A.Lakloth 11+5reb+2ast, G.Ori 10+4reb, R.Rasheed 10+3reb+1ast, I.Ciglar 8+3reb+4ast

Round 2

Vasas - UNIQA Eurol. 44-66

The game without a history. MKB Euroleasing led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. MKB Euroleasing outrebounded Vasas 49-25 including a 33-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. International center Dora Horti (195-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) stepped up and scored 10 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and Ukrainian forward Olexandra Kurasova (186-86) chipped in 10 points and 8 rebounds. At the losing side Latvian center Anita Teilane (196-85) responded with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 blocks and guard Szandra Pal (175-86, college: SE Missouri St., agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) scored 10 points and 6 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Vasas: A.Teilane 14+8reb, S.Pal 10+6reb+2ast, L.Adamecz 4+5reb+1ast, S.Pusztai 4+1reb+1ast, S.Katona 4, A.Mansare 3+2reb
UNIQA Eurol.: F.Szabo 11+1reb+2ast, D.Horti 10+7reb+1ast, O.Kurasova 10+8reb, S.Krnjic 9+8reb, T.Krivacevic 8+8reb, D.Furesz 7+1reb+2ast

Round 3

BSE-FCSM - UNIQA Eurol. 25-101

The game without a history. MKB Euroleasing led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding BSE-FCSM to just 3 points in third quarter and to 10 points in second half. MKB Euroleasing held BSE-FCSM to an opponent 15.5 percent shooting from the field compared to 52.9 percent accuracy of the winners and made 26-of-33 free shots (78.8 percent) during the game, while BSE-FCSM only scored seven points from the stripe. MKB Euroleasing forced 24 BSE-FCSM turnovers and outrebounded them 55-19 including a 18-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when MKB Euroleasing made 7 blocks. BSE-FCSM was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. Serbian center Sara Krnjic (193-91) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 17 rebounds for the winners and international forward Tijana Krivacevic (194-90) chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds. Five MKB Euroleasing players scored in double figures. At the losing side guard Dora Szondy (173-88) responded with 9 points and forward Szonja Vukov (184-94) scored 3 points and 5 rebounds.
Top scorers:
BSE-FCSM: D.Szondy 9+3reb, K.Tiba 4+1reb+1ast, B.Varga 4+2reb, S.Vukov 3+5reb+1ast, M.Bagi 2+1reb, Z.Sonyak 2+1reb
UNIQA Eurol.: S.Krnjic 18+17reb, O.Kurasova 16+2reb+2ast, D.Horti 16+5reb+1ast, T.Krivacevic 15+8reb, H.Zavecz 13+3reb+1ast, D.Furesz 7+3reb+2ast

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Brankica HADZOVIC
  DKSK
  (175-G-81)
  Avg: 25

1. Hadzovic, DKSK	25.0
2. Kovacs, Nanette F.	24.0
3. Szalay, ZTE	20.0
4. Simon, SE.	19.0
5. Bozoki, Bajai NKK	18.0
6. Vida, Nanette FTC	18.0
7. Skoric, DKSK	17.0
8. Szabo, Bajai NKK	15.0
9. Scekic, Bajai NKK	15.0
10. Horvath, Pecs 20.	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Orsolya FARKASINSZKI
  DKSK
  (185-F/C-86)
  Avg: 13

1. Farkasinszki, DKSK	13.0
2. Krnjic, UNIQA E.	11.3
3. Horvath, ZTE	10.0
4. Englert, Nanette	8.0
5. Zsamar, EL.	8.0
6. Bujdosi, SE.	8.0
7. Horvath, EL.	8.0
8. Krivacevic, UNIQA	7.7
9. Budimir, DKSK	7.0
10. Hadzovic, DKSK	7.0

Assists Per Game

Szilvia TOROK
  Pecs 2010
  (176-G/F-81)
  Avg: 6

1. Torok, Pecs 2010	6.0
2. Czirjak, DKSK	4.0
3. Kovacs, Nanette F.	4.0
4. Englert, Nanette	4.0
5. Ciglar, SE.	4.0
6. Katona, EL.	3.0
7. Fegyverneky, UNIQ.	3.0
8. Bozoki, Bajai NKK	3.0
9. Skoric, DKSK	3.0
10. Sarok, Pecs 2010	3.0

Steals Per Game

Lilla HORVATH
  Pecs 2010
  (182-F-90)
  Avg: 6

1. Horvath, Pecs 2010	6.0
2. Skoric, DKSK	5.0
3. Russai, Nanette F.	4.0
4. Simon, SE.	4.0
5. Szalay, ZTE	4.0
6. Zsovar, ZTE	4.0
7. Englert, Nanette	4.0
8. Horvath, ZTE	4.0
9. Szepsi, Bajai NKK	4.0
10. Szabo, UNIQA E.	4.0

Blocks Per Game

Anita TEILANE
  Vasas
  (196-C-85)
  Avg: 5

1. Teilane, Vasas	5.0
2. Cvetanovic, Atome.	3.0
3. Zavecz, UNIQA E.	1.7
4. Hegedus, BSE-.	1.0
5. Kovacs, Nanette F.	1.0
6. Szabo, Bajai NKK	1.0
7. Kurasova, UNIQA E.	1.0
8. Orban, Cegledi EKK	1.0
9. Serban, Cegledi EKK	1.0
10. Bagi, BSE-.	1.0

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ITALY - Women

Standings A2 Women - by Eurobasket News

A2 Standings

North
1. Bologna		1-0
2. Borgotaro		1-0
3. Cervia		1-0
4. Marghera		1-0
5. O.G. Collegno		1-0
6. San Martino		1-0
7. Vigarano		1-0
8. Alghero		0-1
9. Biassono		0-1
10. Bolzano		0-1
11. Cagliari V.		0-1
12. Milano		0-1
13. Muggia		0-1
14. Udine		0-1
South
1. Chieti		1-0
2. Napoli BK		1-0
3. Napoli S.Dike		1-0
4. Pomezia		1-0
5. Ragusa		1-0
6. S.E.Battipaglia		1-0
7. T. La Spezia		1-0
8. Ancona		0-1
9. Battipaglia		0-1
10. Firenze		0-1
11. Orvieto		0-1
12. S. La Spezia		0-1
13. Siena		0-1
14. Viterbo		0-1

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LITHUANIA - Women

Yevgeniya Sharovka agreed with Lemminkainen - by Eurobasket News
Yevgeniya Sharovka (175-G-88, agency: LBM Management) agreed with Lemminkainen for the upcoming season. The Ukrainian player heads to the Baltic State.
In 2005-2006 she joined Tim-Scuf Kyiv (Higher League) and played for 6 seasons in a row. In the last one she averaged 8.9ppg, 5.3rpg, Assists-2 (5.0apg), Steals-3 (3.1spg), FGP: 45.1%, 3PT: 17.4%, FT: 69.7%.
Last season in Ukraine she was Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian UPBL Honorable mention: -11, became Ukrainian UPBL Regular Season Champion -11 and Ukrainian UPBL Champion -11.
She erupted with 27 points at the Regular Season Round 15. Tim-Scuf overcame Luganski Last. 87:60 in the capital. Together with the team Sharkova won UPBL 2011 as they overcame Dnipro in the Final 88:63. The game was mostly controlled by Tim-Scuf. Dnipro-DVUFK managed to win fourth quarter 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Yevgeniya Sharovka brought 4 points in the last game.

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NCAA1 - Women

Summitt to receive Maggie Dixon Courage award - by Eurobasket News
Coach Pat Summitt will receive the Maggie Dixon Courage award when she brings her Tennessee Lady Vols to the sixth annual Classic that honors the former Army coach.

Summitt surprised the sports world with her announcement in August that she had been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's. She will begin her 38th season when the Lady Vols start practice on Wednesday.

'It is a tremendous honor to receive an award named after Maggie Dixon,' Summitt said through a Tennessee spokesman. 'In her short time as a coach, she was a great role model and a rising star in our profession.'

Tennessee will face DePaul in the second game of the annual doubleheader at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 11. Six-foot-eight Brittney Griner and the Baylor Lady Bears will take on St. John's in the opener.

The winningest coach in college basketball - men's or women's - is the fourth recipient of the award. She joins Rutgers coach C. Vivian Stringer, former Army player Lt. Col. Kim Kawamoto and California's Tierra Rogers.

It's the second time Tennessee has played in the Classic named for the former Army women's coach. The Lady Vols beat Rutgers two years ago. The Scarlet Knights had played in all four of the previous Garden events. Army hosted Ohio State at West Point the first year.

The 28-year-old Dixon died April 6, 2006, of arrhythmia, probably caused by an enlarged heart. Her death came three weeks after she finished her first season as Army coach. She won the admiration of the academy and all of college basketball for leading Army to its first NCAA berth, where the Cadets lost in the first round to Summitt's Lady Vols.

Jamie Dixon, her brother and men's coach at Pittsburgh, started the doubleheader in 2006.

Courtesy of http://sports.sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Iowa State women looking for new leader - by Eurobasket News
Through the years, the Iowa State women's basketball team almost always found a go-to player, someone to serve as the face of the program.

Stacy Frese filled that role. So did players such as Angie Welle, Anne O'Neil, Alison Lacey and, last season, Kelsey Bolte.

But Bolte is gone, taking with her a 17-point scoring average, four seasons of experience in the Big 12 and an understanding of how to play in coach Bill Fennelly's system. So the search is on to find someone else to give the Cyclones their identity.

Could it be center Anna Prins? Or guard Lauren Mansfield? Or forward Hallie Christofferson, who was outstanding as a freshman last season. Maybe Fennelly himself, someone suggested.

'If I'm the face of this program,' he cracked, 'we have a major problem.'

Fennelly was totally serious, though, when he said finding that special player was a major concern.

'We're searching for leaders, we're searching for consistency,' he said Tuesday at the team's media day. 'I'm not going to lie to you, it's the worst offseason we've ever had. We've had more people hurt that we've ever had hurt. So there's great concern that we're not as ready to go at the start of practice as I'd like to be.'

Prins, a 6-foot-7 junior and the team's top returning scorer with a 9.9 average, is among those who missed time this summer. She was out from mid-July until about a week ago, the latest stint of inactivity in a career rife with injuries and illness. Fennelly figures Prins missed at least 60 days in each of her first two seasons.

When healthy, Prins can be a handful for opponents. She can score inside, she knocked down 27 3-pointers last season and made 73 percent of her free throws. She averaged only 20 minutes a game last season, yet just missed a double-figure scoring average in helping the Cyclones to a 22-11 record and their fifth straight NCAA tournament berth.

'Hopefully now that she's a junior all that stuff's behind her,' Fennelly said. 'She's very, very capable of changing the dynamic of our team. That only changes if she's playing and practicing.'

Mansfield, a senior who transferred in from a junior college last season, started all 33 games and spent most of the time at point guard. But in five of her six highest scoring games, she played in the shooting guard spot, where Fennelly wants to use her this season.

Wherever she plays, Mansfield knows more will be expected of her after she averaged 8.8 points and shot a respectable 39 percent from 3-point range.

'I'm definitely ready to be a leader of the team,' she said.

If Mansfield stays on the wing, senior Chassidy Cole or freshman Nikki Moody would play the point. If they falter, Fennelly will move Mansfield back.

Christofferson might be the player with the most potential to improve her game significantly. She's long and athletic at 6-3, shot 52 percent from the field and showed a knack for hitting an occasional 3. She spent part of the summer with her high school coach in her hometown of Exira, a town of about 800 in western Iowa, working on a hook shot and shooting 3s on the move.

Fennelly said she's the team's most complete player and could become one of the program's best players ever.

'I'm feeling a lot more confidence in myself,' Christofferson said. 'Last year everything was hitting you all at one time. You didn't know how to take things. This year, you just have a better sense of what's going to happen.'

Should Christofferson and her teammate need any more incentive, photos of the Iowa State players who have been drafted by WNBA teams hang on one wall of the lounge in the Cyclones' practice facility. It's something they see every day.

'I'm waiting for someone on this team to earn a spot on that wall,' Fennelly said. 'That's the challenge we have to find in practice. If we find that, I think we've got a chance to be a decent team. If we don't find that, there will be moments when we struggle to find an identity and find a way to be successful.'

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

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NIGERIA - Women

Basketball - D' Tigress May Miss Olympics Ticket - by Eurobasket News
Nigeria's senior women national team, D' Tigress are on the verge of missing next year's Olympic Games in London as they face an early exit from the ongoing Women's Afrobasket in Bamako, Mali.

Winners of the ongoing tournament will win the sole ticket available for Africa in the women basketball event of the Olympic Games in London. PM Sports learnt that the Rashidat Sadiq-captained D' Tigress have not been too impressive at the tournament, having won three and lost two of the five matches they have played. Team pairing seemed not to favour the Nigerian women as they were grouped with the tournament's favourites and the defending champions, Senegal and Angola.

D' Tigress lost their first match against Senegal and yesterday, they were defeated by Angola 67-60 points. Nigeria plays Rwanda today in a do-or-die match, while they will also pray that Angola does not only lose their match against Guinea but lose with a wide margin. Angola lost their match against Senegal earlier in the tourney.
Courtesy of: Daily Trust

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POLAND - Women

Standings - PLKK

PLKK Standings

1. CCC Polkowice		2-0
2. Energa Torun		2-0
3. Gorzow		2-0
4. ROW Rybnik		2-0
5. Wisla Can-Pak		2-0
6. Lider Pruszkow		1-1
7. Lotos Gdynia		1-1
8. Tecza Leszno		1-1
9. Widzew		1-1
10. Artego Bydg.		0-2
11. Inea AZS		0-2
12. LKS Siemens		0-2
13. MUKS Poznan		0-2
14. Odra Brzeg		0-2

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PORTUGAL - Women

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PUERTO RICO - Women

Standings - Women

BSNF Standings

1. Morovis M.		11-3
2. Juncos V.		9-3
3. San German		9-6
4. Carolina G.		7-3
5. Ponce L.		7-9
6. Guaynabo M.		4-8
7. San Juan W.		4-9
8. Aguas B.T.		2-12

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SERBIA - Women

Standings - Women

A Standings

1. Beocin		1-0
2. Crvena Zvezda		1-0
3. Jagodina 2001		1-0
4. Stara Pazova		1-0
5. Student		1-0
6. Vrbas		1-0
7. Celarevo		0-1
8. Loznica		0-1
9. Proleter		0-1
10. Radnicki KG		0-1
11. Sabac		0-1
12. Spartak		0-1
Play in international cups:
1. Hemofarm		0-0
2. Partizan		0-0
3. Radivoj Korac		0-0
4. Vojvodina		0-0
5. Vozdovac		0-0

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SEYCHELLES - Women

Will Stars reclaim the womens title? - by Carlos Pereira
The answer will come on Saturday when the former champions will clash head on with outgoing champs HotShots in what promises to be an interesting and mouth-watering affair.
Anse Etoile Stars came closer to reclaiming the title they relinquished to HotShots in 2008 when they steamrollered RA Sisters 69-28 on Monday at Victoria Gymnasium for their ninth win in as many matches.
Stars coach Michel Malbrook was happy with the win and expects his players to go all the way to win the league title.
We have one hand on the title and its up to the players to bring it home at the end of Saturdays clash with HotShots, Malbrook told Sports Nation.
Winners of the first-round clash on a 67-62 score, the Stars can afford to lose Saturdays match by less than five points and still win the title on the head-to-head rule.
But defeat is not what coach Malbrook is thinking about.
They (the players) have to give their best if they want to win and reclaim the title. Theyve proved it in the first-round encounter and I know they will finish the job in style, he added.
Stars last league title win was in 2008 and it was their third consecutive and 15th championship title in 17 years.
HotShots can only retain the title if they beat the Stars by six points or more and coach Philip Arissol is confident his team will deliver in Saturdays decider.
Weve been there before and weve delivered in crunch time. I dont see why we cant do it again this time, said coach Arissol.
Anse Boileau-based HotShots won their third championship win in a row with a 17-point margin 77-60 victory over former champions Stars last year to bring to five their number of triumphs after wresting the title from Stars grasps in 2008. Their past title wins came in 1998, 2002, 2008 and 2009.
Coach Arissol added that he is optimistic in a win and that Saturdays match will be a real title decider.
G. G.

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SPAIN - Women

Gran Canaria add Vanessa Ble and Elina Dillon - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria add Vanessa Ble (190-C/F-91) and Elina Dillon (182-F-85) for the upcoming season.
In 2008-2009 Vanessa Ble played for Gran Canaria La Caja de Canarias (LFB, starting five) and in 15 games averaged 9.5ppg, Reb-3 (9.4ppg), 1.1apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 49.1%, FT: 54.5%. In Dec.'09 signed at EBE Ibiza-PDV Sta Eulalia (LFB, starting five) and in EuroCup had 4.7ppg, 6.5rpg, 1.0apg, 2.0spg. In Spanish League after 17 games her stats read 6.2ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 51.7%, FT: 56.5%.In 2010-2011 she appeared for Cadi la Seu D'urgell (LFB) and averaged 2.9ppg, 2.9rpg
Elina Dillon is a Latvian Player. In 2010-2011 she started for SK Cesis (LSBL) and in 4 games averaged 11.0ppg, 9.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.5spg. In Nov.'10 moved to TTT Riga (LSBL) and in Latvian League had 4.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg. Later she signed at C.B. Olesa Espanyol (Spain-LFB, starting five) and in 8 games her stats read 6.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FGP: 35.7%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 94.1%.

Rivas Ecopolis celebrates in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Rivas Ecopolis played a friendly game last night. They met Caja Rural and celebrated 70-41 victory in this meeting. Laura Nicholls (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and Iva Sliskovic (194-F-84, college: S.Carolina) were the leading scorers in Rivas with 16 points. Vega Gimeno Martinez (183-F-91, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Robert Morris) helped her team with 9 points. On the other side, Caja Rural had only one player with double digits. It was Bernice Mosby (186-F-84, college: Baylor), who scored exactly ten pts. LFB begins in less than ten days and some of the teams will play more friendlies. Rivas will open the season at home against Burgos. Rivas reached Semifinals in last three editions of LFB. Maybe they will be able to make a step forward this year.

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TURKEY - Women

Antakya announces Laura Harper - by Eurobasket News
Homend Antakya Belediyesi announced signing of another player for the upcoming season. The TKBL newcomer penned a deal with American PF/C Laura Harper (193-F/C-86, college: Maryland). She is expected to help the team under the basket. Harper most recently played in Italy as a member of Umana Reyer Venezia. He appeared 16 times in SerieA averaging 9.6 points, 7.6 rebounds and 3.3 steals, season 2009/10. Laura Harper is not a new face in Turkey as she already played there in 2008/09 season. She exploded with 17.6 ppg and 10.4 rpg for 18 games in TBBL. Harper also added impressive 18 ppg and 12 rpg for 10 games in Euroleague. She was named Eurobasket.com Euroleague All-Imports Team -09 and also Eurobasket.com All-Turkish TBBL 1st Team -09. Harper played for the USA National Team in 2008.

Mersin bring back Deniz Boz and sign Ayse Dilek Unuvar - by Eurobasket News
Mersin bring back Deniz Boz (174-G-82) for the upcoming season. In 2005-2006 the Turkish Guard started for Bursa Yildirim Belediye (D1) and in 24 games averaged 7.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 45.0%, 3PT: 27.0%, FT: 55.0%. In
2006-2007 Boz moved to Tarsus Belediyesi (TBBL) and in 13 games showed 5.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 21.6%, 3PT: 26.1%, FT: 68.0%.
In 2007-2008 played for Samsun (TBB2L, starting five) and had 9.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.2apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 50.0%, during the season moved to Cankaya Universitesi (TBBL): 3.5ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.9apg.
In 2008-2009 started for Ceyhan Belediyespor (TBBL, starting five) and in 22 games had 6.5ppg, 2.5rpg, Assists-4 (4.2apg), 1.5spg, 2FGP: 41.5%, 3PT: 34.0%, FT: 64.8%. In 2009-2010 appeared for Mersin BSH Bld (TBBL) and in 24 games had 2.1ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.8apg. The last season played for Samsun Basketbol (TKBL, starting five) and in 24 games averaged 6.2ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-2 (5.5apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 70.8%.
Ayse Dilek Unuvar (178-F-82) comes from Ceyhan Belediyespor (TKBL, starting five). In 15 games last season she averaged 6.9ppg, 3.6rpg, 2.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 34.1%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 73.3%.
The team also confirmed Tugce Inoentepe (173-G-87, agency: 1x1 Sports) and Sanem Zeren (178-F-89).

Pankup Ted Kayseri Kolejspor keep the majority of the squad - by Eurobasket News
Pankup Ted Kayseri Kolejspor keep the majority of the squad for the upcoming season. The Turkish team announced keeping Dila Askin (170-G-87), Tugce Canbaz (166-F-81), Pinar Demirok (180-F-91), Nazli Gokdemir (190-F-91), Esra Ural (198-C-91), Aysun Yararbas (91) and Gizem Yavuz (170-G-88). The team recently signed Ivory Latta (168-G-84, college: N.Carolina). The American Girad is so far the only foreigner in the team.
Gizem Yavuz is one of the top players from the last season. The Turkish Guard averaged 7.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 73.0% last season. She came from Istanbul Universitesi SK after 4 seasons there. Last season she recorded 16 points at the Regular Season Round 10 when TED Kayseri beat Botas 78:72. American players dominated the game. Power forward LaToya Pringle fired 14 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Nakia Sanford chipped in 15 points and 5 rebounds, while the Turkish player added 2 points and 2 rebounds to her team points.

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UKRAINE - Women

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WNBA - Women

MVP Tamika Catchings headlines 2011 All-WNBA First Team - by Eurobasket News
Indiana Fever forward Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee), the 2011 WNBA MVP, headlines the 2011 All-WNBA First Team, the league announced today. Catchings, who has been selected to nine All-WNBA teams, including six First Teams, led all vote-getters with 187 points.
Atlanta Dream forward Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) (172), Phoenix Mercury guard Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) (168), Connecticut Sun center Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) (166), and Minnesota Lynx guard Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-G-82, college: Minnesota) (164) round out the First Team.

Voting for the All-WNBA First and Second Teams was conducted by a panel of national and local sportswriters and broadcasters. Players were selected by position and received five points for each First Team vote and three points for each Second Team designation.

Catchings, named the 2011 WNBA Most Valuable Player of the Year, led the Fever to the top seed in the Eastern Conference, averaging 15.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.0 steals. On Aug. 13, in an 82-71 home win versus New York, Catchings tied her career-high of 32 points, making her the sixth player in WNBA history to reach the 5,000-point mark and the first with 5,000 points, 2,000 rebounds and 1,000 assists.

McCoughtry ranked second in the league in scoring, averaging 21.56 points, to go along with 5.2 rpg and 2.2 spg. Taurasi earned her fourth consecutive and fifth overall Peak Performer award for scoring after averaging 21.63 points in 2011. Charles, the 2010 Rookie of the Year captured her second consecutive rebounding title, averaging 11.0 rpg. Whalen paced the league in assists, averaging 5.9 and handing out five or more assists in a game 26 times.

While this marks the seventh First Team honor for Taurasi and the sixth for Catchings, it is the second such selection for Whalen. McCoughtry and Charles each earned their first appearance on the First Team.

Chicago Sky center Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) (150 points) and Seattle Storm guard Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) (123 points) highlight the 2011 All-WNBA Second Team. New York Liberty guard Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) (94), Phoenix Mercury forward Penny Taylor (6'1''-F-81) (82), and Minnesota Lynx guard Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) (69) round out the Second Team.

In honor of being named to the All-WNBA First and Second Teams, each player will receive a Tiffany & Co. designed trophy. In addition, $10,000 will be awarded to each member of the First Team, while each member of the Second Team will receive $5,000.

Below are the complete results of the 2011 All-WNBA Team voting:

2011 ALL-WNBA FIRST TEAM

Player Team Position Points

Tamika Catchings Indiana Fever Forward 187

Angel McCoughtry Atlanta Dream Forward 172

Tina Charles Connecticut Sun Center 166

Diana Taurasi Phoenix Mercury Guard 168

Lindsay Whalen Minnesota Lynx Guard 164

2011 ALL-WNBA SECOND TEAM

Player Team Position Points

Penny Taylor Phoenix Mercury Forward 82

Seimone Augustus Minnesota Lynx Forward 69

Sylvia Fowles Chicago Sky Center 150

Sue Bird Seattle Storm Guard 123

Cappie Pondexter New York Liberty Guard 94

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Lynx, Dream set for a gold rush - by Eurobasket News
The WNBA Finals has an Olympic flavor.

As many as 10 players who are candidates for the 2012 London Games could be involved when the Lynx meet Atlanta on Wednesday night at Target Center.

'That is why you are going to see such high- quality basketball and such great games,' said Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, whose team has a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five series. 'Olympians have something just a little special about them.'

Five Lynx -- Seimone Augustus, Lindsay Whalen, Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89, college: Connecticut), Rebekkah Brunson and Candice Wiggins -- are in the 24-player U.S. pool for London.

Atlanta has two American candidates in Angel McCoughtry and Lindsey Harding. Erika de Souza and Iziane Castro Marques are on Brazil's national team, and Sancho Lyttle is on Spain's.

De Souza, in fact, missed the Dream's past three playoff games because she was playing for her native country last week in the Americas Championships in Colombia. She was the tournament MVP as Brazil finished first and received an automatic Olympic berth.

Augustus, who won a gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, said it had to be a tough decision for de Souza to leave the Dream in the middle of the playoffs.

'Either way, people are going to look at you in a different light, whether it be good or bad,' Augustus said. 'The WNBA Finals -- this is what we play for. We want to win a championship.

'But at the same time, you want to represent your country as well. It was a great opportunity for her country to make it to the Olympics, which is probably the biggest event for any athlete.'

Augustus still gets chills recalling Beijing. And when the national anthem is played before WNBA games, Augustus always puts one hand on her heart.

'I thought everybody is supposed to do that,' she said.

She learned the proper stance from her grade school teachers and USA Basketball reinforced it.

Augustus was coming off stomach surgery last fall and wasn't picked for the U.S. team in the 2010 World Championships. She was disappointed but understood.

'I wasn't in the best shape, I wasn't where I am now,' Augustus said. 'Other people were playing better.'

Whalen and Moore of the Lynx and McCoughtry of the Dream all were on that gold-medal-winning team. Atlanta coach Marynell Meadors was an assistant coach.

'It was awesome, something you always think and dream about,' Whalen said, but don't ask her about the Summer Olympics yet. 'That's a long ways away. We have a game [Wednesday].'

For Moore, the Olympics seem around the corner.

'Of course, I want to be an Olympian,' she said. 'And it is coming up closer and closer every second. I can't believe it is already the end of the [WNBA] season.'

Moore said the Lynx's high number of candidates for the U.S. teams shows what a special team it is.

'It makes the environment really competitive and that is part of the reason we have been able to be so successful.'

At Atlanta, the approaching Olympics has caused problems for the Dream.

Lyttle left the team in June to play for Spain in the European Women's Championships, another Olympic qualifying tournament. While there she injured her back. So, instead of missing six games, she was out six weeks.

De Souza didn't want to leave the Dream.

'But I knew that Brazil needed me so bad,' she said through an interpreter. 'Without me it could be a really different team [in Colombia]. I know my importance here, too. I am going to give it my best, and my best is rebounding and defending.'

Meadors backed de Souza's decision to play for Brazil.

'I don't know how you can refuse to give a player support. That is the main thing they want to do, they all want to play for their Olympics teams.'

Her issue is with the scheduling of international tournaments.

'I don't think USA Basketball would ever try to have a training camp or whatever' during the WNBA season, she said. 'They will fill [their team] in with other players to keep the championships whole.'

That's what the U.S. women's team is doing now on its tour in Italy.

Without de Souza, Atlanta was outrebounded by 12 in its Sunday loss to the Lynx. But as of 11 p.m. Monday, the Dream are whole again, too. Meadors and a few of her players waited up in a hotel for de Souza. Her trip from Neiva, Colombia, took two days, including a six-hour layover in Miami.

When the 6-5 center finally arrived, Meadors approached her and said, 'I need to hug you.'

'We were all happy to see her,' Meadors said. 'She is a huge part of our team.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com