EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 11/25/2011

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


Men News

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


Dalibor Bagaric leaves Valladolid for Cedevita - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Dalibor Bagaric (217-C-80, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) is no longer a member of Valladolid. Two sides agreed to terminate a deal and the player immediately joined Cedevita Zagreb. A week ago Bagaric verbally agreed terms with Cedevita. He appeared four times in Liga Endesa this season with Valladolid averaging 5 points and 3.8 rebounds. Dalibor Bagaric split last season between Dubrava and Marousi. With the Greek squad he had 12.2 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.6 apg and 1.9 bpg for 23 games in A1. He was named Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Bosmans Team -11. In 2009/10, Bagaric played for Cibona. Before that, he was a member of GMAC Bologna and Girona. Bagaric played for the Croatian NT from 1998 to 2005.

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


Interclube Versus ASA Highlight of Basketball Championship Opening Round - by Eurobasket News
Luanda The game between Interclube and Atltico Sport Aviao (ASA) is the main highlight of the opening round of the 2011/2012 first division male basketball championship, which will start on Friday at 06.00 pm, in 28 de Fevereiro Pavilion, in Luanda.

The start of the top division championship, dubbed BAI-Basket, is being awaited with much expectation by the public, who will be watching the dispute between the third and sixth placed teams in the last championship.

Still on the same day, the round also includes the games Clube Desportivo da Universidade Agostinho Neto versus Vila do Estoril, plus Vila Clotilde versus Sporting Clube de Luanda.

Another much awaited game will be played on 13 January 2012 between the defending champions, Petro de Luanda, and the holder of the Angola League Cup, Recreativo do Libolo.

This game was rescheduled due to the fact that the two teams were involved in the preliminary round of access to the African Champions Clubs Cup.
Courtesy of: Angola Press

1 De Agosto Fail to Defend Continental Basketball Title - by Eurobasket News
Luanda The senior males basketball team of 1 de Agosto, last Sunday in South Africa finished the preliminary stage of the tournament of access to the African Clubs Champions Cup in the third position, thus missing the opportunity to defend the title which the Angolan team holds for the past three editions.

With a team full of 'stars', 1 de Agosto did not manage to overcome their compatriots, Petro de Luanda (1st place), and Libolo (2nd) in the Zona VI tournament.




The final stage of the African Clubs Champions Cup will be disputed in December, in Morocco, and Angola's representatives will be Petro de Luanda and Recreativo do Libolo.
Courtesy of: Angola Press

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


Super 8: day 1 - by Facundo Iatzky
Libertad 72 - Quimsa 68

Libertad is on fire. Won their 7th straight game and advanced to semifinals of prestigious Super 8 tournament, that brings together the best 8 teams of the first stage of Liga a. the game was very even until the last minutes, but Libertad reacted with a terrific performance of Robert Battle (204-C-81, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Drexel).
Libertad: Robert Battle 19 points, 17 rebounds; Joshua Pittman (197-F-76, agency: Dream Team Management, college: NC-Asheville) 14 points, Jonatan Treise (182-G-85) 10 points, 4 ass
Quimsa: Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78) 17 points, Damian Tintorelli (204-C-81, agency: Players Group) 16 pts, 7 reb

Penarol 75- Weber BB Estudiantes 74

A game highly expected due to the presence of Andres Nocioni (199-F-79) in Mar del Plata. and the game did not disappoint. It was exciting until the last second, when Pepe Sanchez had the chance to win the game with a three point shoot. Penarol won by 18 in the first quarter, but Estudiantes showed all their potential to even the game again, and come to that dramatic end of the game. Nocioni was outstanding.
Penarol: Andres Nocioni 24 pts, 15 reb; Derrick Roland (193-G-88, college: Texas A&M) 14 pts; Facundo Campazzo (180-G-91) 8 pts, 6 ass
WBB Estudiantes: Juan Ignacio Sanchez (193-G-77, college: Temple) 24 pts, Javier Mojica (190-G-84, agency: Alti Sport, college: Cent.Conn.St.) 14 pts

Torneo Federal 2011/12 rosters: Santa Fe Zone - by Facundo Iatzky
Argentino Firmat

Nicolas Morales (201-C-89)
Jorge Banegas (192-G)
Juan Castellano (194-F)
Alejandro fabrini (180-G)
Juan Pascual (198-C-91)
Joaquin del pozo (193-G)
Emanuel Oliveri (198-F)
Diego Cordera (193-F)
Aldo Gonzalez (180-G-88)
Diego Cogliati (202-C)
Omar Zanocco (194-F/C-75)

Coach: Mario Fogolin

Union Santa Fe

Hernan Tetamantti (198-F-79)
Jaime Cabre (186-G-83)
Matias Missio (173-G-87)
Mauro Cosolito (195-F)
Juan Gandoy (184-G-82)
Rodrigo Salaberry (186-F-89)
Rodrigo Sanchez (200-F-89)
Brian Stanford (82)
Sebastian Godoy (184-G-73)
Mariano Gomez (185-G)
Luciano Copello (183-G)

Coach: Juan Siemienczuck

Alma Juniors:

Leonardo Strack (188-G)
Adolfo Garcia (193-F-84)
Emiliano Basabe (190-G-92)
Andres Horst (197-G-81, college: Brescia (KY))
Francisco Tolisso (182-G-86)
Roy Melchiorre (180-G-72)
Nahuel Melian (184-G)
Emiliano Roh (176-G-81)
Cristian Melgarejo (200-F)
Sebastian Porta (204-C-79)

Coach: Maximiliano Rubio

Maria Juana:

Nicolas Galleano (196-F)
Cesar Bailone (177-G)
Matias Fontanessi (175-G)
Adrian Almeida (200-F-86)
Jose Dalmasso (190-F)
Diego Cornalis (201-C)
Gaston Cornalis (188-G)
Nicolas Greco (198-F-86)
Nicanor aguilera (G)
Gabriel Rosom (190-G)
Leonardo Laurenti (186-G)

COach: fernando Cornalis

Brown San Vicente:

Federico Mateo (198-F/C-84)
Ezequiel Gaido (182-G-88)
Matias Ruger (200-F/C-91)
Genaro Priotti (182-G-92)
German Abasto (190-G-90)
Gustavo Acosta (198-C-89)
Sebastian Punet (188-G-89)
Jonatan Morero (200-F/C-89)
Matias Bonfiglio (190-G-86)
Mauro Ambrosino (180-G-92)
Alejo Britos

Coach: Sergio Britos

Adelante Reconquista:

Ignacio Aguirre (184-G-87)
Sebastian Uranga (200-F/C-89)
Facundo Zarate (190-G-89)
Alejandro Mansur (185-G)
Marcelo Piuma (196-F-83)
Juan Ignacio Frigeri (192-G)
Emanuel Arevalo (198-F/C-87)
Emanuel Vallejos (190-G-85)
Leandro Gonzalez (203-C-79)
Francisco Rasio (182-G-81, college: Miami Dade CC)

Coach: Sebastian Uranga



*****************************************************
  BAHRAIN   


Standings
Premier League Standings
 1. Al Manama 4-0 
 2. Muharraq 4-0 
 3. Al Ahli 3-0 
 4. Al Hala 3-0 
 5. Bahrain Club 2-2 
 6. Nuwaidrat 2-2 
 7. Al Ittihad 1-2 
 8. Issa Town 0-3 
 9. Samaheej 0-3 
 10. Sitra 0-3 
 11. Al Najma 0-4 


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


Standings
Balkan League Standings
Group A
 1. Galil Gilboa 3-0 
 2. Rilski Sportist 2-1 
 3. Torus Skopje 1-1 
 4. Mornar Bar 1-2 
 5. Timisoara 1-2 
 6. OKK Beograd 0-2 
Group B
 1. Hapoel T-A 2-0 
 2. Levski Sofia 2-0 
 3. Feni Indistrija 2-1 
 4. Napredak 1-2 
 5. Ulcinj 1-2 
 6. Zrinjski HT 0-3 


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


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


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


Rafael Castellon and Ralfi Ansaloni join Sorocaba - by Paulo Freire
The Liga Sorocabana de Basquete basketball team have add two new pieces to their roster.
Head coach Rinaldo Rodrigues now can count with guard Rafael Castellon (85), who played the Paulista State for Rio Claro, and the last NBB season was with the Bauru squad.
To help the game inside the basket, the team now has the big man Ralfi Ansaloni (211-C-87), the former Vila Velha player will give more powerfull and size to the team. Ansaloni played the Mineiro State for the Olympico team.
Both players are already with the team, practicing and getting ready for their first game.

*****************************************************
  BULGARIA   


Galil Gilboa beats Rilski Sportist in BIBL, 76-67 - by Eurobasket News
Galil Gilboa - Rilski Sportist 76-67

Galil Gilboa and Rilski Sportist met last night in their postponed Round One game of the Balkan league. The Israeli squad was better celebrating 76-67 home victory. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Rilski. Both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting, so Galil Gilboa is on top of Group A now with the perfect score (3-0). The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 43-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Galil Gilboa dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Rilski Sportist's 34. They outrebounded Rilski Sportist 37-20 including 25 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Joseph Jones (204-C/F-86, college: Texas A&M) who helped to win the game recording 32 points (on 14-of-15 shooting from the field). The other American import Romeo Travis (200-PF-84, college: Akron) contributed with 14 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 10 points and 7 assists and Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) added 16 points (made all of his eight free throws) in the effort for Rilski Sportist. Galil Gilboa is looking forward to face Torus Skopje (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Rilski Sportist will play against OKK Beograd and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.

Galil Gilboa: J.Jones 32+4reb+2ast, R.Travis 14+9reb+2ast, C.Thomas 8+3reb+9ast, N.Tishman 7+1reb+3ast, A.Gordon 6+7reb+2ast, J.Martin 5+6reb+1ast
Rilski Sportist: F.Vukosavljevic 16+2reb+1ast, A.Velikov 13+3reb+1ast, B.Mirkovic 10+2reb+7ast, M.Marinov 8+2reb+2ast, A.Bilobrk 6+2reb+2ast, S.Vaklinov 4+1reb

*****************************************************
  CANADA   


Lightning get ready to bolt for the road - by Eurobasket News
The London Lightning will get a pretty good idea of how good a road team they are after Thursday's home game at the John Labatt Centre.

There aren't many more chances to watch the Lightning at home until the calendar changes.

After their game against the Moncton Miracles, the Lightning will only have one more John Labatt Centre game in 2011, that on Dec. 10 against the Oshawa Power.

The Lightning play seven of their next nine games away from the JLC. They've accumulated a 6-2 record to lead the National Basketball League of Canada, but six of their first nine games have been at home.

London is 2-1 on the road.

'All the teams were supposed to hand in 50 potential dates for 18 games because of arena availability. Oshawa only handed in 26 so we had to work around their schedule,' Lightning general manager Taylor Brown said.

Brown said the situation isn't all bad.

'December is a time when there are a lot of parties and people have a lot to do,' he said. 'But only playing one game at home in December, our job is to keep the buzz going.'

The Miracles come to London still looking for their first win. They are 0-6.

The Lightning have made a roster change after their win Saturday over the Power. Returning is forward Albert White, who was with the team before the season began but had some issues with immigration paperwork. He had to go home to Michigan while his work visa was straightened out.

Brandon Dean was moved to the injury list to make room for White, a 6-foot-6 forward/guard who began his collegiate career at the Michigan. He left the Wolverines after his freshman year, transferring to the University of Missouri.

His freshman year (1998) was the year Michigan was implicated in a basketball scandal when a gambler was giving loans to players in order to launder gambling money. Four players, the best known being Chris Webber, were implicated.

White left the team the year after the scandal and although he was questioned, he was never implicated. His leaving Michigan had nothing to do with the scandal.

'He can play,' Taylor said. 'He's a hard-nosed guy who is really tough.'

White left Missouri in his junior year to enter the NBA draft, but was not picked. His short stay at Missouri, however, was impressive.

He was a first team all-Big 12 Conference player and CNN/Sports Illustrated Big 12 player of the year. White led the Tigers to their best season in the Big 12 era in 1998-99.

The Lightning are still tinkering with their roster. Getting bigger down low is still a priority and the team is expected to bring in one more player next week.

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com

Storm announces roster moves - by Eurobasket News
The Summerside Storm announced two roster moves on Wednesday afternoon.

A media release issued by the National Basketball League of Canada team says that player Dwight Brewington (6'5''-G-84, college: Liberty) has been released due to personal issues, and Troy Gottselig (6'8''-F-87) has been activated from the injured reserve list.

'It's unfortunate we had to let Dwight go, said Storm head coach Joe Salerno. He is an extremely talented player, and I felt he could have helped our team this season.

Unfortunately, he has some off-the-court issues back home in Boston that he needed to deal with. We wish Dwight the best of luck, and I believe he still has a bright future on the court.'

Brewington, a six-foot-five, 210-pound small forward, came to the Storm from Providence College. Brewington was 14-for-33 in shooting from the floor, and ranked 46th overall in the league stats for shooting.

Courtesy of www.journalpioneer.com

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


Dimayor: victories for Liceo, Espanol and Concepcion - by Daniel Valencia
On tuesday and wednesday night were played games from round 5 and 6 of Dimayor 2011. Liceo Mixto won both games on the road against Municipal Curacavi and stays at the top of the standings with a 6-0 record. Espanol de Talca travelled to Santiago and won both games on the road against Universidad Catolica, that now has a 4 game losing streak. In Santiago, in a game between undefeated teams, CD Universidad de Concepcion defeated to Union Espanola and for now is in the second place with a 5-0 record. These are the complete results.

Round 5

Municipal Curacavi 54 - Liceo Mixto 95
Cur: Adrian Aravena 11 pts. Diego Rojas 10 pts.
Lic: Marcus Elliott 29 pts. Patricio Briones 15 pts.

CD Universidad Catolica 74 - Espanol de Talca 76
Uc: Tarrie Monroe 32 pts. Jorge Schuler 13 pts.
Esp: Bayo Arigbon (197-F-86, college: San Diego Chr.) 19 pts. Sebastian Saez 18 pts.

Union Espanola 76 - CD Universidad de Concepcion 87
Uni: Decorey Young 30 pts. Jeremiah Wilson 23 pts.
Ucon: Alain Laroche 26 pts. Jason Keep 25 pts.

Round 6

Municipal Curacavi 69 - Liceo Mixto 93
Cur: Felipe Fernandez 18 pts. Diego Rojas 17 pts.
Lic: Patricio Briones 20 pts. Howard Wilkerson 19 pts.

CD Universidad Catolica 57 - Espanol de Talca 93
Uc: Tarrie Monroe 23 pts. Felipe Contreras 11 pts.
Esp: Bayo Arigbon 22 pts. David Gonzalez 17 pts.

Standings - LIBSUR
DIMAYOR Standings
 1. Liceo Mixto 6-0 
 2. U.Concepcion 5-0 
 3. U.Espanola 4-1 
 4. Dep.Espanol 4-2 
 5. U.Catolica 2-4 
 6. San Luis 0-4 
 7. Sokol de Antof. 0-4 
 8. Munic.Curacavi 0-6 


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


Standings - CBA
CBA Standings
 1. Bayi Fubang 2-0 
 2. Beijing Ducks 2-0 
 3. Guandong ST 2-0 
 4. Guangsha L. 2-0 
 5. Shandong FB 2-0 
 6. Fujian XX 1-1 
 7. Liaoning H. 1-1 
 8. Qingdao DS 1-1 
 9. TianJin R. 1-1 
 10. Zhejiang C. 1-1 
 11. Shanxi Zh. 1-1 
 12. Foshan 0-1 
 13. Xinjiang F.T. 0-1 
 14. DongGuan L. 0-2 
 15. Jiangsu D. 0-2 
 16. Jilin NE T. 0-2 
 17. Shanghai S. 0-2 


CBA round 2 best performance: Mike Harris - by Eurobasket News
Puerto Rican forward Mike Harris (198-F-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Shanghai S., receiving a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 2.
The 28-year old player had a double-double of 39 points and 18 rebounds, while his team Shanghai S. moved-up to the 17th position in the Chinese CBA. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked at the very bottom. They already lost 2 games and recorded no victories. Harris turned to be Shanghai S.'s top player in his first season with the team. Former Rice University star has very solid stats this year. Harris is in league's top in rebounds (8th best: 12.0rpg) and averages impressive 61.5% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old former international power forward Jianlian Yi (213-F/C-87) of Guandong ST. Yi had a very good evening with a double-double of 30 points and 17 rebounds. Of course he lead Guandong ST to another comfortable win 105-90 over Jiangsu D. (0-2) being unquestionably team leader. His team has extremely good start of the season. They won both games so far. However the season is at the beginning, so everything can happen. They still may lose their high position in the standings. Yi is a newcomer at Guandong ST, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American center Will McDonald (211-C-79) of Fujian XX (#6). McDonald got into 30-points club by scoring 32 points in the last round. He went also for sixteen rebounds . Despite McDonald's great performance Fujian XX lost 106-111 to Bayi Fubang (#1, 2-0). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Fujian XX needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 1 victories and 1 lost games. The season just started for McDonald as he played only first game. But it already looks like he can be team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82) of Shandong FB - 32 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Lester Hudson (191-G-84) of Qingdao DS - 37 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Charles Gaines (201-F-81) of Shanxi Zh. - 25 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Wilson Chandler (203-F-87) of Guangsha L. - 28 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Josh Boone (208-F/C-84) of Zhejiang C. - 24 points and 13 rebounds
9. Stephon Marbury (187-G-77) of Beijing Ducks - 30 points and 11 rebounds
10. Nan Zhang (197-F-81) of TianJin R. - 30 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists

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

*****************************************************
  COLOMBIA   


FEDERATION CUP FINALS 2011, GAME 5 - by Victor Garcia
Orgullo Paisa took the lead in the final playoff, defeating Bukaros in the third straight game in Medellin, the game was a copy of the formerly played, with the teams changing the lead, and with several claims to the referees.
One more tiem the duo of Guillent and Ortiz took the offensive load in Orgullo Paisa, but also Felipe Barrios is getting a very important role always fighting the offensive rebounds and scoring important points, Bukaros had an answer in the hands of Dermarr Johnson who awaked after two bad games.
In the last quarter Bukaros had a 6 points lead the miss due turnovers and for two back to back Ortizthree pointers, in the end of the game Bukaros has one point lead but a three pointer with 4 seconds left give the victory to the Orgullo Paisa.
The series moves now to Bucaramanga for the game 6 and 7 if necessary.

ORGULLO PAISA 78 S.Ortiz 30 pts, H. Guillent 23 pts.
BUKAROS 76 D. Johnson 25 pts.

ORGULLO PAISA LEADS 3-2

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


Standings - Division A
Division A Standings
 1. Keravnos 6-0 
 2. Etha 5-1 
 3. APOEL 4-1 
 4. Apollon 4-1 
 5. Omonia 3-3 
 6. AEK 1-4 
 7. AEL 1-4 
 8. ENAD 0-5 


*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Head Coach Frantisek Ron and Guard Tadej Kostomej Out at Astrum Levice - by Surujh Roopnarine
Astrum Levice, losers of five in a row, including too bottom-dwellers Inter Bratislava and BK Opava, have announced the release of Head Coach Frantisek Ron and point guard Tadej Kostomaj (186-G-87). The club announced that the changes were made due to a lack of performance and the need for a new voice in the locker room. Tadej Kostamaj was a member of last season's Extraliga Championship squad, but this season had seen his level of play slip as he yo-yoed between Astrum and their sister team Onyx which competed in Slovakia .In 12 games he averaged 4.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.1 steals, but was shooting just 38.5% on two-point field goals and 1-15 from three. Frantisek Ron , 51, who also heads the Slovakian National Team, is very experienced in both Slovakia as well as the Czech Republic.

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


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


Rosters set for 2011-12 NBA Development League regular season - by Eurobasket News
The 2011-12 opening day rosters for all 16 NBA Development League Teams was announced today. The NBA D-League's 11th season begins Friday, Nov. 25, when the defending champion Iowa Energy visit the Canton Charge. The game airs live at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV.

NBA TV is scheduled to air 34 regular-season games during the 2011-12, including four live telecasts featuring Iowa at Canton (Friday, Nov. 25), the Los Angeles D-Fenders at the Sioux Falls Skyforce (Friday, Dec. 2), Sioux Falls at Iowa (Friday, Dec. 9), and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers at the Austin Toros (Friday, Dec. 16). Additionally, more than 80 NBA D-League games will air across seven Comcast regional sports networks. Any games not available on NBA TV will stream on NBA FUTURECAST at nbadleague.com.

2011-12 NBA D-LEAGUE OPENING NIGHT ROSTERS:



AUSTIN TOROS

Solomon Bozeman

Justin Dentmon

Carldell Johnson

Myles McKay

Omar Reed

Lance Thomas

Tristan Thompson

Dan Vandervieren

Terrance Woodbury

Luke Zeller (6'11''-F/C-87, college: Notre Dame)



BAKERSFIELD JAM

Brian Butch

Osiris Eldridge

Mustapha Farrakhan

Justin Graham

Damian Johnson

Adam Koch

Renaldo Major

David Palmer

Juan Pattillo

Adrian Thomas


CANTON CHARGE

Tyrell Biggs

Jonathan Blake

TJ Campbell

Travis Franklin

Antonio Graves

Tyrone Kent

Keith McLeod

Anthony Newell

Jamine Peterson

Marcus Relphorde



DAKOTA WIZARDS

Mike Anderson

Maurice Baker

Marcus Dove

Shy Ely

Mickell Gladness

Anthony Goods

Joe Harden

Edwin Ubiles

Travis Walton

Curtis Withers



ERIE BAYHAWKS

Tirrell Baines

Chris Daniels

Kyle Goldcamp

Jeff Graves

Cory Higgins

Jamael Lynch

Chaz McCrommon

Donald Sloan

Kyle Spain

Mychel Thompson



FORT WAYNE MAD ANTS

Corey Allmond

Ron Howard

Tory Jackson

Cameron Jones

Darnell Lazare

Justin Neuhaus

Marvin Phillips

Sadiel Rojas

Walker Russell

Antonio Smith



IDAHO STAMPEDE

Mildon Ambres

Tony Bobbitt

Eric Devendorf

Jason Ellis

Will Foster

Cheyne Gadson

Kevin Galloway

Willie Jenkins

Reginald Larry

Seth Tarver



IOWA ENERGY

Jake Anderson

Thomas Baudinet

Andrew Drevo

Moses Ehambe

Brandon Ewing

Jarrid Famous

Nick Murphy

Stanley Robinson

Ben Strong

Michael Tveidt



LOS ANGELES D-FENDERS

Zach Andrews

Jordan Brady

Brandon Costner

Courtney Fortson

Otis George

Brian Hamilton

Eniel Polynice

Terrence Roberts

Franklin Session

Jamaal Tinsley



MAINE RED CLAWS

Jamar Abrams

Justin Brownlee

Darren Cooper

Kenny Hayes

Anthony Kent

J.R. Reynolds

Tyc Snow

Durrell Summers

Mike Tisdale

Chris Wright



RENO BIGHORNS

Blake Ahearn

Chris Ayer

Cedric Bozeman

Reuben Clayton

Nick Fazekas

Zach Graham

Chris Matthews

Taj McCullough

Donald Sims

Doug Thomas



RIO GRANDE VALLEY VIPERS

Stanley Asumnu

Marshall Brown

Sam Coleman

Terrel Harris

Lee Humphrey

Tyren Johnson

Kelvin Lewis

Charles Okwandu

Jay-R Strowbridge

Josh Tarver



SIOUX FALLS SKYFORCE

Dominique Coleman

Brian Evans

Charles Garcia

Anthony Mason Jr.

Casey Mitchell

Anthony Moody

Will Pratt

Gabe Pruitt

Dominique Scales

Greg Stiemsma



SPRINGFIELD ARMOR

David Akinyooye

Jamar Brown

Travis Cohn

JamesOn Curry

Dennis Horner

Lance Hurdle

Jerry Smith

Eugene Spates

Jonathan Thomas

L.D. Williams



TEXAS LEGENDS

Ron Allen

Vance Cooksey

Ramon Dyer

Lawrence Hill

Dominique Johnson

Matt Rogers

Jamal Sampson

Anthony Vereen

Derek Williams

Booker Woodfox


TULSA 66ERS

Xavier Alexander

Brian Barkdoll

Dwight Buycks

Benjamin Colon

Jerome Dyson

Marcus Lewis

Brady Morningstar

Ryan Reid

Billy Rush

Curtis Sumpter
Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com




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


Kaspars Cipruss claims KML weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Latvian center Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82, agency: Interperformances) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Tarvas and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
The 29-year old center had the game-high 20 points adding seven rebounds for Tarvas in his team's victory, helping them to crush Parnu (#7, 1-6) with 23-point margin 103-80. Tarvas is placed at 2nd position in Estonian KML. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Tarvas will need more victories to improve their 6-3 record. Cipruss turned to be Tarvas' top player in his first season with the team. Cipruss has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (8th best: 14.4ppg) and averages solid 67.2% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was young former international point guard Rait-Riivo Laane (180-PG-93) of Rapla. Laane impressed basketball fans with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. It was enough for Rapla to edge the lower-ranked Valga/CKE (#8, 1-9) by 5 points 63-58. Rapla's 4th position in the standings has not changed. His team's 5-3 record is not bad at all. Laane is well-known by Rapla fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Matt Shaw (203-F-88) of Tln Kalev (#6). Shaw scored 28 points. Despite Shaw's great performance Tln Kalev lost 79-93 to slightly higher-ranked TTU/Kalev (#5, 4-5). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Tln Kalev not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 5 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Shaw could try to bring Tln Kalev's a little bit higher in the standings. Shaw has a very solid season. In 6 games in Estonia he scored 8.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Andrew Arnold (208-C-86) of TTU/Kalev - 16 points, 15 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Brandis Raley-Ross (188-G-87) of Tln Kalev - 25 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Illimar Pilk (195-F-88) of TTU/Kalev - 22 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Andre Parn (200-F-77) of Rapla - 19 points and 6 rebounds
8. Kristjan Makke (205-F/C-81) of TTU/Kalev - 13 points and 10 rebounds
9. Ando Tagamets (200-F-79) of Valga/CKE - 17 points and 8 rebounds
10. Timo Oja (186-G-87) of Tarvas - 17 points and 7 rebounds

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

*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   


Deron Williams claims weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American Deron Williams (191-PG-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Besiktas and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 3.
The 27-year old playmaker had the game-high 50 points adding three rebounds for Besiktas in his team's victory, helping them to beat Goettingen (#4, 0-3), the league's bottom-ranked team 105-94. It allowed Besiktas to consolidate first place in the EuroChallenge group B. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. The season is still on an early stage, but Besiktas already had a very good start winning all 3 without losing a single one. In the team's last game Williams had a remarkable 76.9% from 2-point range and got seven three-pointers out of 10 attempts. He turned to be Besiktas' top player in his first season with the team. University of Illinois graduate has very impressive stats this year. Williams is league's best scorer averaging so far 33.7ppg. Williams is in league's top in rebounds (7th best: 3.0rpg) and averages solid 62.5% FGP and 64.0% from behind 3-point line.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old former international center Marton Bader (212-C-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) of Szolnok. Bader impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 23 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Szolnok lost that game 81-93 to Keravnos (2-1). The season is still at the very beginning and this lost game may not be such crucial, of course if they start win the games. Let's wait for the next round. Bader is well-known by Szolnok fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American swingman John Holland (195-G/F-88) of Roanne (#3). Holland scored 29 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of Roanne, leading his team to a 87-85 win against #1 ranked BK Prostejov in a game of the week. Roanne needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in group C. Their record at this point is 2 victories and 1 lost games. Holland has a great season in EuroChallenge. After only 3 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 22.7ppg (5th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lorenzo Williams (191-G-84) of Atomeromu - 28 points, 2 rebounds and 9 assists
5. Sergey Karasev (200-F-93) of Triumph - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Winsome Frazier (193-G/F-82) of Keravnos - 27 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Michael Roll (196-G-87) of Antwerp - 25 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Raymond Sykes (206-F/C-86) of Goettingen - 25 points and 8 rebounds
9. Darius Washington (188-G-85) of Turk Telekom - 28 points, 2 rebounds and 6 assists
10. David Hawkins (194-G-82) of Besiktas - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists

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

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


Round Six: Wednesday's games - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

CSKA - Zalgiris 95-82
CSKA Moscow is the first team who booked a ticket for the Euroleague Top 16. The Russian powerhouse handed 95-82 loss to Zalgiris jumping to 6-0 record in Group A. Of course, they stay alone on top of this pool. On the other side, Zalgiris closes the standings with 1-5. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) led the hosts with 21 points and 7 rebounds (valuation 33). Alexey Shved had 16 points, 5 boards and 5 assists, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) (7 as) and Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) (6 rebs) netted 14 pts each. In Zalgiris, Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) delivered 22 points. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) stopped to 12 pts apiece. Zalgiris was 24-25 ahead after ten minutes of play, but CSKA responded with 27-20 until the halftime for 6-point lead. The hosts jumped to 56-45 at the beginning of Q3, but Zalgiris came to 73-66 for rest of the period. Mini 6-2 run brought plus 11 to CSKA again and there were 7 minutes remaining. It was too much for the guests and CSKA celebrated its sixth straight Euroleague win this season. In the next round, CSKA will meet Brose Baskets on the road, while Zalgiris wait Unicaja.

CSKA: Nenad Krstic 21+7 boards, Alexey Shved 16+5 boards+5 as, Milos Teodosic 14+7 boards, Andrey Vorontsevich 14+6 boards
Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 22, Marko Popovic 12, Tomas Delininkaitis 12


GROUP B

Olympiakos - Bizkaia Bilbao 88-81
Olympiakos registered valuable 88-81 home win against Bizkaia Bilbao in Round Six of the Euroleague regular season. The Reds improved to 3-3 in Group A and increased their chance to reach the next stage. Bilbao dropped to 2-4. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket) paced the home squad to victory collecting 29 points and 6 assists (valuation 34). Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) had 18 points and 7 rebounds, while Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) helped with 13 pts and 5 rebs. Visitors got 17 points from Alex Mumbru (202-F-79). Marko Banic (205-F-84) and Janis Blums (190-G-82) scored 15 and 14 pts respectively. Olympiakos opened the game with 19-9 lead, but Bilbao came to 27-24 for rest of the first quarter. Later, Olympiakos had 45-42 at the HT and Bilbao grabbed 60-61 lead with 10:00 to go. Vassilis Spanoulis and his teammates exploded with 19-9 run for the next five resolving question about the winner. Actually, Alex Mumbru helped guests to cut the margin at 84-81, but Spanoulis immediately responded from the FT line. Quarters: 27-24, 18-18, 15-19, 28-20. In the next round, Olympiakos will meet Fenerbahce Ulker in Istanbul. Bilbao waits Nancy.

Olympiakos: Vassilis Spanoulis 29+6 as, Kyle Hines 18+7 boards, Pero Antic 13+5 boards
Bilbao: Alex Mumbru 17, Marko Banic 15, Janis Blums 14


GROUP C

Anadolu Efes - Partizan 67-58
Third Euroleague win for Anadolu Efes this season and at the same time second victory against Partizan. The Turkish giant celebrated 67-58 in Istanbul last night. Both teams have 3-3 record now in Group C. Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) stepped up for the hosts with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) also was great scoring 16, while center Stanko Barac (217-C-86) helped with 10 points for 17 minutes on the court. In Partizan, Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) was better than the others with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) and Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) had 10 points each. Third quarter was the crucial one in this game. Before that, Partizan made 15-17 in the first ten minutes and Efes answered with 15-11 in Q2. Sasha Vujacic and his teammates jumped to 39-28 at the halfway of third period (9-0 run included). It was plus 13 for Efes with 10 minutes to go and Partizan was not able to relpy. Quarters: 15-17, 15-11, 19-8, 18-22. Anadolu Efes goes to Charleroi in the next round. Partizan waits Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Anadolu Efes: Sasha Vujacic 21+5 boards, Dusko Savanovic 16, Stanko Barac 10
Partizan: Milan Macvan 15+5 boards, Acie Law 10, Danilo Andjusic 10


GROUP D

Montepaschi - Unics 73-79
Unics did a great job in Siena on Wednesday night. The Euroleague newcomer grabbed 73-79 road win against the Italian powerhouse Montepaschi. Thanks to this surprising victory Unics joined Montepaschi with 4-2 record in Group D and they share the second place now. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) shined with 24 points and 5 rebounds for Unics. He made 6 of 8 attempts from behind the arc. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) had double-double of 21 points and 10 rebs, while Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) netted 12 pts. For the hosts, Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) delivered 22 points. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) had 13 points and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) stopped to 8. Unics exploded at the beginning of the last period making 6-18 run for 67-75 lead. There were four minutes remaining and Montepaschi was not able to reply. Quarters: 16-21, 25-20, 20-16, 12-22. Unics waits Galatasaray in the next round. Montepaschi goes to Ljubljana.

Montepaschi: Bo McCalebb 22, Rimantas Kaukenas 13, Ksistof Lavrinovic 8
Unics: Henry Domercant 24+5 boards, Vladimir Veremeenko 21+10 boards, Lynn Greer 12



3D did it again!! - by Chris Mammides
Unicaja - Panathinaikos 76-77

In a game which just ended in Palacio de los Deportes J.M Martin Carpena, the home court of Unicaja and in front of nearly 10.000 Spaniards, Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) did it again, for another one time he took by hand his team and drove it all the way to the victory over Unikaja Malaga locking the second spot of the group and the total advantage for the Green team of Coach Zeljko Obradovic in the next round!
The simple question is what did he (the 3D) do? He scored 8 points and one amazing block shot in the last 2.04' of the game and basecally gave the victory to a 'lost' game for Panathinaikos. Only the 3D can do that, nobody else. There are many great players in the Euroleague this season but the 3D is one and only one!

The game was an absolute derby with the two teams fighting until the very end and with an amazing Zoric from the one hand against the 3D on the other. The greens took an early lead of ten mainly due to Sato and Smith who scored 8 points each in a first period which ended with 17-27 for Panathinaikos.

In the 2nd period though the home team witht he help of their 10.000 fans and with Zoric, Valters and Garbajosa closed the gap by the end of the first half to the basket (43-45) by succeeding an awesome 26-18 over the European champions from Athens.

The 3rd period was dramatic as the score was going basket by basket with the visiting site of Panathinaikos having a slight deficit and with both teams playing with the nerves of the basketball fans as they were quite 'down' in performance (both the teams) and with many turnovers. The 3rd period ended with 57-58 (14-13) with Zoric allready scoring 15 points and being by far the top performer for the Spaniards, while from Panathinaikos 3D had also 15 points followed by Sato who had 12 and Smith (in his best game in the Euroleague) with 10 points.

The 4th and final quarter was amazing as Unicaja balanced the score initially with 8.45' before the end of the game to 60-60 and the 5.48' to 64-64 and then 2.47' to 67-67 and got the lead for the first time since the beggining of the game with 68-67 with the second free throw by Rodriguez in his first points in the game. The last two minutes were 3D show time as Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) increase the deficit for his team with 1.17' to go, to 72-69 and then with just 15 seconds left Valters scored his 3rd three pointer to increase the deficit for his team to 75-71 and that was it, 3d took the ball (assist from Calathes) scored his first three pointer with 11 seconds to go, then he fouled sarden Tremmel who scored only the one of two free throws to reshape the score to 76-74 and then with less than 2 seconds to the end 3D scored another difficult three pointer with half the Spanish team overplaying him defense he was able to get the ball and throw it all the way to the Spanish net giving to his team the crucial road win with 76-77!

The scorers:
Unicaja: Zoric 21 points and 6 rebounds, Darden 13 points and 7 rebounds and Valters 11 points and 5 assists.
Panathinaikos: Dimitris Diamantidis 23 points with 7/11 three pointers, 3 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 block shot, Smith 13 and 6 rebounds and Sato 13, 6 rebounds and 2 assists.





Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Caja Laboral 4-2 
 2. Olympiakos 3-3 
 3. Bennet Cantu 3-3 
 4. Fener.Ulker 3-3 
 5. Nancy 3-3 
 6. Bizkaia Bilbao 2-4 
Group B
 1. CSKA 6-0 
 2. Panathinaikos 4-2 
 3. Unicaja 3-3 
 4. Brose Baskets 2-4 
 5. KK Zagreb CO 2-4 
 6. Zalgiris 1-5 
Group C
 1. Maccabi T-A 5-1 
 2. Real Madrid 4-2 
 3. Anadolu Efes 3-3 
 4. Partizan 3-3 
 5. Armani MI 2-4 
 6. Charleroi 1-5 
Group D
 1. FCB Regal 6-0 
 2. Montepaschi 4-2 
 3. Unics 4-2 
 4. Galatasaray 3-3 
 5. Union Olimpija 1-5 
 6. Asseco Prokom 0-6 


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


Vichy's Josiah James six month out - by Eurobasket News
Bad luck for Vichy and its player Josiah James (203-F/C-81, college: Birmingham Souther). The 30-year-old PF/C tore his Achilles tendon during the practice and he will undergo surgery next week. James will miss at least six months. He joined Vichy recently. He appeared twice in ProB averaging 9 points and 7 rebounds. James already played in Vichy in 2009/10 season. He joined them in November of 2009 averaging 6.8 points and 3.9 rebounds in 24 games. Last season, Josiah James started with Bourg. He had 11 ppg and 6.8 rpg for them in five games, after what they split. James joined Nantes soon after that. He had 8.3 ppg and 5.1 rpg in 24 ProB games. In the past, James played for Boulazac and Saint-Etienne. He also has experience from Belgian Pepinster and German Leverkusen.

*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Superleague Round 10 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Fersped-Rabotnicki (3-6) survived in overtime against Vardar (3-6) by two points 88-86 on Wednesday night. The game took place in Skopje. But the guests were better at the end. Dime Tasovski (200-F-80) fired 20 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Fersped-Rabotnicki moved-up to sixth place, which they share with defeated Vardar. Fersped-Rabotnicki will face league's leader Feni Indistrija in Kavadarci in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

The best stats of 10th round was 29 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists by Darko Radulovic of Vardar.

Lirija - MZT Skopje 83-89

The game between closely ranked teams ended with one of their biggest challengers Lirija's (4-5) home loss to third ranked MZT Skopje (7-2) 83-89 on Wednesday. Lirija trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 21-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 83-89 at the end of the game. They outrebounded Lirija 41-27 including 28 on the defensive glass. The former international power forward Gjorgi Cekovski (203-79) fired 11 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Cade Davis (196-88, college: Oklahoma) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. American power forward Dustin Mitchell (206, college: WiscKing.-Whitew.) produced 23 points and 6 rebounds and naturalized Serbian center Toni Simic (210-76) added 17 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. MZT Skopje maintains third position with 7-2 record having just two points less than leader Feni Indistrija. Lirija at the other side keeps the fourth place with five games lost. MZT Skopje will face bottom-ranked Kozuv (#9) in Gergelija in the next round where they are favorite. Lirija will play on the road against ABA Strumica (#8).
Top scorers:
Lirija: D.Mitchell 23+6reb+3ast, N.Zivcevic 18+2reb+2ast, T.Simic 17+7reb+1ast, C.Morban 16+5reb+4ast, V.Filipovic 7+3reb+2ast, B.Stajic 1+1reb
MZT Skopje: C.Davis 18+5reb+1ast, N.Gajdadjiev 13+2reb, N.Dahlman 13+8reb+2ast, O.Stojanovski 12+3reb+2ast, G.Cekovski 11+9reb+4ast, I.Mijajlovic 9+1reb+4ast
gschID: 151647


Torus Skopje - ABA Strumica 68-56

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Torus Skopje (8-1) defeated at home 8th ranked ABA Strumica (2-7) 68-56 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Torus Skopje. ABA Strumica was better in second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Torus Skopje had a 36-23 advantage in offensive rebounds. American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-88, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points and 19 rebounds for the winners. Guard Goran Markovski (195-92) chipped in 11 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. American center John Chappell (208, college: S.Carolina) produced 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks and forward Mario Hasanov (198-86) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Torus Skopje maintains second position with 8-1 record behind leader Feni Indistrija. ABA Strumica at the other side keeps the eighth place with seven games lost. Torus Skopje will face Kumanovo 2009 (#5) on the road in the next round. ABA Strumica will play against Lirija in Skopje.
Top scorers:
ABA Strumica: J.Chappell 15+8reb, M.Hasanov 12+5reb, Z.Delev 7+3reb, J.Kurciev 6+5reb+1ast, K.Karamanolev 6+2reb+3ast, A.Ilasev 4+2reb
Torus Skopje: J.Reynolds 21+19reb, G.Markovski 11+8reb+6ast, B.Krstevski 10+5reb, N.Karakolev 9+4reb+1ast, I.Dimcevski 7+2reb+3ast, D.Karadzovski 6+5reb+1ast
gschID: 151648


Vardar - Rabotnicki 86-88 OT

Fersped-Rabotnicki (3-6) survived in overtime against Vardar (3-6) by two points 88-86 on Wednesday night. The game took place in Skopje. But the guests were better at the end. Vardar was tied after three quarters and then recorded another tie at the end of regular time. They were eventually defeated in overtime 14-16s. Fersped-Rabotnicki made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. Vardar was plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. The former international forward Dime Tasovski (200-80) fired 20 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Guard Enes Hadzibulic (196-81) chipped in 25 points. Guard Darko Radulovic (194-80) produced 29 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists (made all of his eleven free throws !!!) and center Aleksandar Shterjov (206-86) added 22 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Fersped-Rabotnicki moved-up to sixth place, which they share with defeated Vardar. Fersped-Rabotnicki will face league's leader Feni Indistrija in Kavadarci in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Vardar: D.Radulovic 29+6reb+5ast, A.Shterjov 22+7reb+2ast, F.Kralevski 11+3reb, V.Georgievski 8+8reb+1ast, A.Stefanovski 5+3reb, A.Tasevski 5+2reb
Rabotnicki: E.Hadzibulic 25+3reb, D.Tasovski 20+7reb+2ast, B.Cole 19+5reb, M.Pavlovic 8+5reb, J.Petrovski 5+3reb+8ast, E.Bogoev 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 151645


Kozuv - Feni Indistrija 57-86

Very expected game in Gergelija where 9th ranked Kozuv (1-8) was rolled over by top-ranked Feni Indistrija (9-0) 86-57 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Feni Indistrija led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Kozuv's 34. Serbian center Dusan Knezevic (207-80, agency: BeoExcell) fired 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American swingman Jarrid Frye (194-85, college: Sacred Heart) chipped in 14 points. Five Feni Indistrija players scored in double figures. Guard Aleksandar Dimitrovski (193-80) produced 11 points and 4 assists and guard Viktor Eftimov (180-83) added 10 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Feni Indistrija have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 9-0 record. Kozuv lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom place with eight games lost. Feni Indistrija will face Fersped-Rabotnicki (#6) in Skopje in the next round where they are favorite. Kozuv will play on the road against MZT Skopje.
Top scorers:
Kozuv: A.Dimitrovski 11+2reb+4ast, V.Eftimov 10+3reb+1ast, V.Buha 8+4reb+1ast, P.Marik 6+6reb, D.Vegov 6+1reb+2ast, B.Tomasevic 5+1reb
Feni Indistrija: D.Knezevic 16+8reb+4ast, J.Frye 14+4reb+2ast, D.Sokolov 13+1reb+1ast, S.Ocokoljic 13+2reb, K.Nikolovski 11+5reb+1ast, I.Lilov 10+3reb
gschID: 151646




Best players of Superleague round 10 - by Eurobasket News
American Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Torus Skopje and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 10.
The 23-year old power forward had a double-double of 21 points and nineteen rebounds, while his team beat ABA Strumica (#8, 2-7) 68-56. Torus Skopje maintains the 2nd position in FYR Macedonian Superleague. They are still close to the very top. Torus Skopje would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 8-1 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Reynolds as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Texas A&M - Corpus Christi graduate has very impressive stats this year. Reynolds is in league's top in rebounds (7th best: 6.5rpg) and averages solid 56.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old guard Darko Radulovic (194-G-80) of Vardar. Radulovic impressed basketball fans with 29 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Bad luck as Vardar was edged in overtime by slightly higher-ranked Rabotnicki (3-6) 88-86. This loss caused Vardar to drop to 7th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-6 record. Radulovic is well-known by Vardar fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.7ppg (#7). He also recorded 3.3 assists per game.

The third best performed player last round was American John Chappell (208-C) of ABA Strumica (#8). Chappell scored 15 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Chappell's great performance ABA Strumica lost 56-68 to the higher-ranked Torus Skopje (#2, 8-1). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. ABA Strumica can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-7 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Chappell he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Chappell has a very solid season. In 7 games in FYR Macedonia he scored 4.6ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Aleksandar Shterjov (206-C-86) of Vardar - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Enes Hadzibulic (196-G-81) of Rabotnicki - 25 points and 3 rebounds
6. Dime Tasovski (200-F-80) of Rabotnicki - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Carlos Morban (187-G-82) of Lirija - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Noah Dahlman (200-F-89) of MZT Skopje - 13 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Dustin Mitchell (206-F/C) of Lirija - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Brandon Cole (203-F/C-84) of Rabotnicki - 19 points and 5 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)

D1 Standings
Superleague Standings
 1. Feni Indistrija 9-0 
 2. Torus Skopje 8-1 
 3. MZT Skopje 7-2 
 4. Lirija 4-5 
 5. Kumanovo 3-5 
 6. Rabotnicki 3-6 
 7. Vardar 3-6 
 8. ABA Strumica 2-7 
 9. Kozuv 1-8 


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


Justin Gray (Fraport Skyliners) Konrad Wysocki Was A Great Locker Room Guy - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Justin Gray (188-G-84, college: Wake Forest) is a 27 year old 188cm guard from Charlotte, North Carolina that is playing his firstseason with the Fraport Skyliners. He is versatile enough to excel at point guard as well as big guard. An enthusiastic, high-energy guard who brings a swagger to the team. Gray is one of the teams vocal leaders, possesses great quickness, and is an exceptional perimeter shooter. He started his basketball career at Wake Forest where he played with NBA superstar Chris Paul. Gray played at wake Forest from 2002-2006 and in his senior year played 33 games: ScoreACC-4 (18.2ppg), 3.6rpg, AssistsACC-5 (4.3apg), 1.0spg, FGP: 36.7%, 3PTACC-4 (36.1%), FTACC-5 (83.4%): Finished career ranked 8th in Wake Forest history in scoring (1,946 points), 1st in three-point attempts (860), 2nd in three-point field goals (319) and 8th in assists (382). His 319 career three-point field goals are 7th best in ACC history. In 2006-2007, he started his professional basketball career for Verviers-Pepinster (Belgium-D1): 32 games: 14.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.9apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 51.0%. In 2007-2008, he played for Dexia Mons-Hainaut (Belgium-D1, starting five): 36 games: 15.1ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.8apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 46.0%, FT: 89.0%. In 2008-2009, he played for CEZ Basketball Nymburk (Czech Rep.-NBL): Eurocup: 6 games: 15.5ppg, 1.3rpg, 3.8apg; Czech Rep. League: 43 games: 10.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 77.2%. In 2009-2010, he played for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-PLK, starting five): EuroCup: 6 games: 9.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 23.8%, 3PT: 31.1%, FT: 85.7%; Polish League: 30 games: 14.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 34.2%, FT: 89.3%. Last season, he played for PAOK Thessaloniki (Greece-A1, starting five): Greek League: 18 games: 11.8ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.8apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 31.4%, FT: 81.3%; EuroCup: 6 games: 11.5ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 40.7%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 79.3%, left in March'11, in Apr.'11 moved to BC Donetsk (Ukraine-Superleague): 16 games: 6.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 70.4%2011: Guangzhou Free Man (China-NBL, starting five): 9 games: 24.4ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.0apg, 2.1spg, FGP: 37.8%, 3PT: 41.8%, FT: 85.4%. He reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2004, was Czech Rep. League Champion -09, Czech Rep. Cup Winner -09, and played at the Polish League All-Star Game in 2010. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.

You have played against Chevon Troutman in your career. Does he belong to the top centers in the beko BBL?

When he is at his best yes. He is a big key for the success of FC Bayern Munich. I would put John Bryant at the top with him.

How much of a factor was Muli Katzurin for you coming to the Fraport Skyliners?

He was very key for me coming to Frankfurt. I had played for him at Nymburk and know he coaches. Another important reason was that Frankfurt is a great organization and I heard only good things.

Does the Frankfurt skyline remind you a bit of home in Charlotte?

Yes the Frankfurt buildings remind me of there. However the weather is colder since I live in Florida now.

The Fraport Skyliners had a strong preseason, but why has the team struggled then?

I think injuries and losing close games are the main part why we have struggled. The important thing Is that we havent lost confidence and have been playing better. We have to continue to fight for victories and get healthy again.

What is the biggest strength of Muli Katzurin?

I think that it is his experience and he has coached good teams. He also has done a good job working with the young players, but also the more experienced players. He and coach Perwass always have us prepared well for games.

How important is getting steals for the team defense. Frankfurt is averaging less than three a game which is low.

We dont stress steals so much. Important for us is that we keep our man in front of us and contest shots. We have given up too many easy lay ups this season. Nobody is perfect and it is important that the team stick together and when a mistake is made that another guy comes to help.

How happy have you been with your playmaking this season?

I have had good and bad games. I feel fine with coaches offense, but we are still seeing where each guy fits exactly. I always try my best. The most important thing is to win and I hope that I can continue to help the team win games the best way that I can.

What is a hidden strength in your game that isnt always recognized right away?

I dont really like to comment about what I do good or bad on the court, but if I had to chose one I would say my basketball knowledge.

Michael Thompson has lauded you a lot this season for your help. How do you help him best?

I try to talk to him during practice with different game situations. He is young and I just want him to do well. He has the tools to be a great point guard. He is getting a lot of confidence now with his extended playing time with my injury.

How much has the self confidence of German national player Tim Ohlbrecht risen?

It has risen and one saw in Munich that he wanted the ball. I keep telling him that he runs the floor so well that he should yell more for the ball in the low post. He and Joe Herber were a good connection in Munich, but also other players should find him more down low.

You are from Charlotte, North Carolina. What was your childhood like?

It wasnt too bad, but I grew up in poverty. I was a single child. There were lonely days of me playing basketball alone. Sometimes I would play from sun up to sun down. I always dreamed of playing in the NBA, but, I never dreamed of traveling the world the last years. The experience has been priceless.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

Michael Jordan and Penny Hardaway whose number I wore in college.

You played at Wake Forest together with NBA superstar Chris Paul. What are your fondest memories with him at college?

We were roommates and just spent a lot of time together. From worrying about what we would eat at night to working out together and making each other better. We did so much together.I have lived my NBA dream through him. We still talk today and he is happy for my career in Europe.

You also played together with Braunschweig center Kyle Visser. He seems like he still has a lot of talent that hasnt been shown. What do you remember from him from Wake Forest?

I havent seen him play since college. Back then he was a big body, that could run the floor well, had a nice touch, was active and could block shots. I always wish him the best.

You played together with ex Skyliner Konrad Wysocki in Poland at Turow. What fascinated you most about his game?

He was a great guy on and off the court. He was a great locker room guy. He always played hard and worked hard in practice what rubbed off on his teammates. He was a great teammate.

You scored 49 points in China last summer. Was there no defense played in that game?

I made a lot of shots in that game. We were losing in that game, but ended up winning at the end. One has to remember that China has different rules and 48 minutes are played. It is more an up tempo game. Teams count on you to do a lot in games.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row in college?

I made 50 in a row all the time.

What was your most crazy shot that you made in a game?

I broke my jaw against Duke and came back and played against them and in that game I hit a three pointer from the left wing and we won in over time.

Who wins a one on one you or Chris Paul?

In college I won my share of games, but he really has brought his game to a new level in the NBA. He is so quick now. We work out together in the summers and I might win some now, but he is the best point guard in the world. I dont mind losing to him. He is a competitor and like a brother for me.

How many times has your little son watched your Wurzburg buzzer beater?

He saw it a few times after it happened, but now he will watch anything that has to do with basketball.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Cars. My son woke up and said Daddy cars!

Thanks Justin for the chat.



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


Spanoulis lifts Olympiakos to 88-81 win against Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos - Bizkaia Bilbao 88-81

Olympiakos registered valuable 88-81 home win against Bizkaia Bilbao in Round Six of the Euroleague regular season. The Reds improved to 3-3 in Group A and increased their chance to reach the next stage. Bilbao dropped to 2-4. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket) paced the home squad to victory collecting 29 points and 6 assists (valuation 34). Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) had 18 points and 7 rebounds, while Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) helped with 13 pts and 5 rebs. Visitors got 17 points from Alex Mumbru (202-F-79). Marko Banic (205-F-84) and Janis Blums (190-G-82) scored 15 and 14 pts respectively. Olympiakos opened the game with 19-9 lead, but Bilbao came to 27-24 for rest of the first quarter. Later, Olympiakos had 45-42 at the HT and Bilbao grabbed 60-61 lead with 10:00 to go. Vassilis Spanoulis and his teammates exploded with 19-9 run for the next five resolving question about the winner. Actually, Alex Mumbru helped guests to cut the margin at 84-81, but Spanoulis immediately responded from the FT line. Quarters: 27-24, 18-18, 15-19, 28-20. In the next round, Olympiakos will meet Fenerbahce Ulker in Istanbul. Bilbao waits Nancy.

Olympiakos: Vassilis Spanoulis 29+6 as, Kyle Hines 18+7 boards, Pero Antic 13+5 boards
Bilbao: Alex Mumbru 17, Marko Banic 15, Janis Blums 14

*****************************************************
  HUNGARY   


Damian Saunders joins FS Debrecen - by Levente Szabo
Factum Sport Debrecen announced today the signing of rookie American forward Damian Saunders (200-F-88, college: Duquesne). Damian will join the team after leaving BG Goettingen and is expected to step on court with his new team this weekend against Jaszbereny.

The American forward played college ball at Duquesne where he was a starter since his sophomore year. The all-around forward was a key player for the Dukes averaging 12.6ppg, 7.9rpg, 2.5apg, 2.3spg, 2.7bpg in his senior year. Damian started his professional career this year in Germany with BG Goettingen where he averaged in the German Bundesliga 4.3ppg and 5.7rpg in 23 minutes of action and played 2 games in the EuroChallenge recording 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg and 3apg.

With the signing of the versatile forward the roster of Factum Sport Debrecen is complete.


*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


IR ink deal with Robert Jarvis - by Eurobasket News
IR strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Robert Jarvis (180-G-87, college: ORU). The 24-year-old guard started the previous season in Hungarian Salgotarjan. He averaged 25.0 points, 2.6 assists and 2.4 rebounds per game. In November 2010 Robert Jarvis moved to Soproni KC. His stats read then 12.3 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per appearance. Robert Jarvis is not new to IR. He played for the team back in 2009/10 season. The guard posted 25.7 points, 6.3 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game then. Robert Jarvis also played for ISS Sportino in Poland.

Standings - Iceland Express League
Express L. Standings
 1. Grindavik 7-0 
 2. Stjarnan 5-1 
 3. Keflavik 4-2 
 4. IR 4-3 
 5. KR 4-3 
 6. Snaefell 3-3 
 7. Thor Thorl 3-3 
 8. Fjolnir 3-3 
 9. Njardvik 3-3 
 10. Tindastoll 2-5 
 11. Haukar 1-6 
 12. Valur 0-7 


Standings - 1 Division
D1 Standings
 1. KFI 6-0 
 2. Skallagrimur 5-2 
 3. Hottur 4-1 
 4. Breidablik 4-2 
 5. IG 4-3 
 6. Hamar 3-3 
 7. IA 2-3 
 8. FSU 1-4 
 9. Armann 1-5 
 10. Thor AK 0-7 


*****************************************************
  IRAN   


Standings - Superleague
Superleague Standings
 1. Mahram 8-0 
 2. Zob Ahan 8-0 
 3. Azad 6-2 
 4. Foolad Mahan 5-2 
 5. Petrochimi 5-3 
 6. Sanaye Petrochimi 4-4 
 7. M.H.Ahvaz 3-5 
 8. Saman Bank 3-5 
 9. Shiraz a.s Pipe 2-6 
 10. Zanjan 2-6 
 11. Gorgan 1-6 
 12. Jahesh 0-8 


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


Galil Gilboa beats Rilski Sportist in BIBL, 76-67 - by Eurobasket News
Galil Gilboa - Rilski Sportist 76-67

Galil Gilboa and Rilski Sportist met last night in their postponed Round One game of the Balkan league. The Israeli squad was better celebrating 76-67 home victory. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Rilski. Both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting, so Galil Gilboa is on top of Group A now with the perfect score (3-0). The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 43-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Galil Gilboa dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Rilski Sportist's 34. They outrebounded Rilski Sportist 37-20 including 25 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Joseph Jones (204-C/F-86, college: Texas A&M) who helped to win the game recording 32 points (on 14-of-15 shooting from the field). The other American import Romeo Travis (200-PF-84, college: Akron) contributed with 14 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 10 points and 7 assists and Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) added 16 points (made all of his eight free throws) in the effort for Rilski Sportist. Galil Gilboa is looking forward to face Torus Skopje (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Rilski Sportist will play against OKK Beograd and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.

Galil Gilboa: J.Jones 32+4reb+2ast, R.Travis 14+9reb+2ast, C.Thomas 8+3reb+9ast, N.Tishman 7+1reb+3ast, A.Gordon 6+7reb+2ast, J.Martin 5+6reb+1ast
Rilski Sportist: F.Vukosavljevic 16+2reb+1ast, A.Velikov 13+3reb+1ast, B.Mirkovic 10+2reb+7ast, M.Marinov 8+2reb+2ast, A.Bilobrk 6+2reb+2ast, S.Vaklinov 4+1reb

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


Unics shocks Montepaschi in Siena - by Eurobasket News
Montepaschi - Unics 73-79

Unics did a great job in Siena on Wednesday night. The Euroleague newcomer grabbed 73-79 road win against the Italian powerhouse Montepaschi. Thanks to this surprising victory Unics joined Montepaschi with 4-2 record in Group D and they share the second place now. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) shined with 24 points and 5 rebounds for Unics. He made 6 of 8 attempts from behind the arc. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) had double-double of 21 points and 10 rebs, while Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) netted 12 pts. For the hosts, Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) delivered 22 points. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) had 13 points and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) stopped to 8. Unics exploded at the beginning of the last period making 6-18 run for 67-75 lead. There were four minutes remaining and Montepaschi was not able to reply. Quarters: 16-21, 25-20, 20-16, 12-22. Unics waits Galatasaray in the next round. Montepaschi goes to Ljubljana.

Montepaschi: Bo McCalebb 22, Rimantas Kaukenas 13, Ksistof Lavrinovic 8
Unics: Henry Domercant 24+5 boards, Vladimir Veremeenko 21+10 boards, Lynn Greer 12

Terrell McIntyre retires - by Eurobasket News
Terrell McIntyre (175-G-77, college: Clemson) officially retired as a professional basketball player. The American point guard will undergo hip injury and he doesnt want to take risk to play pro ball again. McIntyre played seven games for Canadian Solar Bologna this season averaging 10.6 points, 3.9 assists and 1.9 rebounds. Terrell McIntyre played for Montepaschi Siena from 2006 to 2010. He won four SerieA titles with them and two Italian Cup trophies. McIntyre and Montepaschi also celebrated tree times in SuperCup. The American was named Eurobasket.com All-Italian SerieA Player of the Year -09. Four years before that he was Eurobasket.com All-Italian Lega2 Guard of the Year -05. That season McIntyre won the LegaDue title and Cup with Upea Capo D'Orlando. In his career, Terrell McIntyre also played for Unicaja Malaga, Reggio Emmilia and Ferrara. He graduated at the University of Clemson 12 years ago.

Lottomatica Roma add Tyreke Evans - by Eurobasket News
Lottomatica Roma bolstered their roster. They landed Tyreke Evans (198-PG-89, college: Memphis). The deal is meant till the end of NBA lockout. The point guard spent the last season in the Sacramento Kings. He averaged 17.8 points, 5.6 assists, 4.8 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game in the NBA. It was the second pro season for the player. Tyreke Evans was named All-NBA Rookie of the Year in 2010. Tyreke Evans graduated from the University of Memphis in 2009. He was trumped C-USA Freshman of the Year in 2009. The guard the member of Adidas U18 Selected Team that participated at 2008 Adidas World Junior Tournament in Douai.

Teramo add Charles Jenkins - by Eurobasket News
Banca Yercas Teramo strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Charles Jenkins (190-G-89). The guard will start his pro career in Italy. He graduated from Hofstra University in 2011. Charles Jenkins was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the second round of the NBA Draft. Charles Jenkins tallied 22.6 points, 4.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game in his senior season. The guard was named into CAA All-Tournament 1st Team. He was trumped All-CAA Player of the Year for the second season in a row. Charles Jenkins also made it onto NABC Division I All-District 10 1st Team. Charles Jenkins may appear on court for Teramo next week.

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


Standings - BJ League
BJ Standings
Eastern
 1. Akita NH 10-2 
 2. Sendai 89ers 8-4 
 3. Chiba Jets 7-5 
 4. Hamamatsu P. 7-5 
 5. Shinshu BW 7-7 
 6. Toyama Grouses 5-7 
 7. Saitama Bron. 5-7 
 8. Yokohama BC 5-7 
 9. Niigata Albirex 4-6 
 10. Iwate Big Bulls 1-11 
Western
 1. Osaka Evessa 11-1 
 2. Okinawa GK 9-3 
 3. Shiga L-Stars 7-5 
 4. Shimane SM 7-5 
 5. Fukuoka Rizing 7-5 
 6. Kyoto Hannar. 7-5 
 7. Miyazaki SS 4-8 
 8. Oita H.Devils 3-9 
 9. Takamatsu FA 0-12 


BJ League Round 14: Shiga L-Stars lose to Okinawa GK in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
The game between Top Four teams took place in Okinawa. Second ranked host Okinawa GK (9-3) defeated one of their biggest challengers Shiga L-Stars (7-5) 82-73. Shiga L-Stars trailed by 17 points after 3 quarters before a 27-19 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 73-82 at the end of the game. British power forward Dzaflo Larkai (203-81, college: Bellarmine) had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and Nigerian-American power forward Reggie Okosa (208-80, college: La Salle, agency: VVG Sports) chipped in 21 points and 15 rebounds during the contest. American forward Ray Nixon (203-84, college: Wisconsin) responded with 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Okinawa GK maintains second position with 9-3 record having just two points less than leader Akita NH. Shiga L-Stars at the other side keep the third place with five games lost. They share the position with 5 other teams. Okinawa GK are looking forward to face Oita Heat Devils (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Shiga L-Stars will play against Takamatsu FA (#9) and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
BJ League top team - Osaka Evessa (11-1) added another victory to their record. This time they beat eighth ranked Oita Heat Devils (3-9) 74-66. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Lawrence Blackledge (206-86, college: Marquette) notched 4 points, 14 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the effort and Lynn Washington supported him with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Osaka Evessa's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 23 points and 9 rebounds by forward T.J. Cummings (205-81, college: UCLA) did not help to save the game for Oita Heat Devils. Osaka Evessa have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-1 record. Oita Heat Devils lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with nine games lost. Osaka Evessa will play against Miyazaki Shining Suns (#7) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Oita Heat Devils will play against the league's second-placed Okinawa GK and hope to get back on the winning track.
BJ League top team - Akita Happinets (10-2) had no problems winning another game on Sunday. This time they beat seventh ranked Niigata Albirex (4-6) 105-89. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was Ricky Woods who scored 28 points and 7 rebounds. Nile Murry produced a double-double by scoring 30 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Akita Happinets have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-2 record. Loser Niigata Albirex dropped to the ninth place with six games lost. Akita Happinets will meet at home Hamamatsu Phoenix (#4) in the next round. Niigata Albirex will play against Iwate Big Bulls (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Takamatsu FA (0-12) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their 12th consecutive match to fifth ranked Kyoto Hannar. (7-5) 77-67. Lance Allred orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds. Kyoto Hannar.'s coach Honoo Hamaguchi used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Kyoto Hannar. moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams. Takamatsu FA at the other side still closes the standings with 12 games lost. Kyoto Hannar.'s next round opponent will be Shimane Magic (#4) at home. Takamatsu FA will play against Shiga L-Stars (#3) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
The game in Shimane was also quite interesting. One of their biggest challengers Fukuoka Rizing (7-5) played at the court of sixth ranked Shimane Magic (7-5). Shimane Magic defeated Fukuoka Rizing 90-78 on Sunday. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Fukuoka Rizing. The game was dominated by American players. Michael Parker scored 27 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Shimane Magic moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams including defeated Fukuoka Rizing. Shimane Magic will face Kyoto Hannar. (#6) on the road in the next round. Fukuoka Rizing will play against the league's second-placed Sendai 89ers and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 14: Shinshu BW were destroyed by Yokohama BC on the opponent's court 86-58. Yokohama BC unfortunately lost to Shinshu BW in a home game 66-81. Toyama Grouses was rolled over Saitama Bron. on the road 74-93. Iwate Big Bulls lost to defending champion Hamamatsu P. on its own court 82-91.


Oita H.Devils - Osaka Evessa 66-74

BJ League top team - Osaka Evessa (11-1) added another victory to their record. This time they beat eighth ranked Oita Heat Devils (3-9) 74-66. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Oita Heat Devils won fourth quarter 19-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Lawrence Blackledge (206-86, college: Marquette) notched 4 points, 14 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the effort and forward Lynn Washington (200-78, college: Indiana) supported him with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Blackledge is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Osaka Evessa's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 23 points and 9 rebounds by forward T.J. Cummings (205-81, college: UCLA) did not help to save the game for Oita Heat Devils. Guard Wendell White (198-84, college: UNLV) added 13 points for the hosts. Four Oita Heat Devils players scored in double figures. Osaka Evessa have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-1 record. Oita Heat Devils lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with nine games lost. Osaka Evessa will play against Miyazaki Shining Suns (#7) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Oita Heat Devils will play against the league's second-placed Okinawa GK and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Oita H.Devils: T.Cummings 23+9reb+2ast, K.Mitomo 14+4ast, W.White 13+4reb+2ast, Z.Atkinson 10+8reb+1ast, M.Lottich 4+6reb+2ast, M.Ohara 2+1ast
Osaka Evessa: L.Washington 14+6reb+2ast, W.Marshall 13+4reb+1ast, C.Aoki 11+4reb+2ast, D.Tamura 8+1reb, S.Konno 8+1reb, S.Takeda 6+4reb
gschID: 141956


Okinawa GK - Shiga L-Stars 82-73

The game between Top Four teams took place in Okinawa. Second ranked host Okinawa GK (9-3) defeated one of their biggest challengers Shiga L-Stars (7-5) 82-73. Shiga L-Stars trailed by 17 points after 3 quarters before a 27-19 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 73-82 at the end of the game. British power forward Dzaflo Larkai (203-81, college: Bellarmine) had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and Nigerian-American power forward Reggie Okosa (208-80, college: La Salle, agency: VVG Sports) chipped in 21 points and 15 rebounds during the contest. American forward Ray Nixon (203-84, college: Wisconsin) responded with 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and Panamanian forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas) scored 10 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Shiga L-Stars players scored in double figures. Okinawa GK maintains second position with 9-3 record having just two points less than leader Akita NH. Shiga L-Stars at the other side keep the third place with five games lost. They share the position with 5 other teams. Okinawa GK are looking forward to face Oita Heat Devils (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Shiga L-Stars will play against Takamatsu FA (#9) and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Shiga L-Stars: R.Nixon 24+9reb+4ast, J.Peppers 11+5reb+2ast, D.Gomez Camargo 10+9reb+4ast, J.Ashby 10+5reb, S.Ogawa 6+2reb+1ast, Y.Okada 5+3reb+3ast
Okinawa GK: D.Larkai 26+15reb, R.Okosa 21+15reb+3ast, N.Namizato 17+1reb+6ast, A.McHenry 9+1reb, M.Yamauchi 4+1reb+1ast, N.Kosuge 3
gschID: 141957


Yokohama BC - Shinshu BW 86-58

There was an upset when higher ranked Shinshu BW (7-7) was crushed on the road by ninth ranked Yokohama BC (5-7) 86-58 on Tuesday. The game without a history. Yokohama BC led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Shinshu BW's 28. They outrebounded Shinshu BW 44-28 including a 31-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. The game was dominated by American players. Forward Justin Burrell (235-88, college: St.John's) scored 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and center Chas McFarland (213-86, college: Wake Forest) chipped in 13 points and 16 rebounds during the contest. Five Yokohama BC players scored in double figures. Yokohama BC's coach Reggie Geary felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay, OH) responded with 15 points and power forward Edward Morris (205-84, college: Pittsburg St.) scored 9 points and 5 rebounds. Yokohama BC moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Saitama Bron. and Toyama Grouses. Loser Shinshu BW keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Shinshu BW: L.Roberts 15+3reb+1ast, S.Yosuke 10+1reb+3ast, E.Morris 9+5reb+2ast, Y.Suzuki 8+3reb+2ast, D.Raivio 7+4ast, T.Saito 5+5reb+3ast
Yokohama BC: J.Burrell 25+7reb+1ast, K.Yamada 14+1reb+3ast, C.McFarland 13+16reb+2ast, M.Kabaya 12+1reb+5ast, P.Faye 10+8reb, O.Kimura 5+3reb
gschID: 141958


Yokohama BC - Shinshu BW 66-81

Rather predictable result when fifth ranked Shinshu BW (7-7) defeated on the road 9th ranked Yokohama BC (5-7) 81-66 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Shinshu BW led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Yokohama BC's players. The game was dominated by American players. Power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay, OH) had a double-double by scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and power forward Edward Morris (205-84, college: Pittsburg St.) chipped in 18 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) during the contest. Four Shinshu BW players scored in double figures. Forward Justin Burrell (235-88, college: St.John's) responded with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 14 rebounds and center Chas McFarland (213-86, college: Wake Forest) scored 8 points and 6 rebounds. Shinshu BW maintains fifth position with 7-7 record. Loser Yokohama BC dropped to the sixth place with seven games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Yokohama BC: J.Burrell 25+14reb+3ast, G.Shey 8+2ast, C.McFarland 8+6reb+3ast, M.Kabaya 7+1ast, O.Kimura 7+1ast, K.Yamada 6+2reb+1ast
Shinshu BW: E.Morris 18+10reb+1ast, D.Raivio 17+4reb+6ast, L.Roberts 15+10reb+5ast, Y.Suzuki 11+2reb+1ast, T.Hughes 8+3ast, S.Yosuke 8+4ast
gschID: 141959


Niigata Albirex - Akita NH 89-105

BJ League top team - Akita Happinets (10-2) had no problems winning another game on Sunday. This time they beat seventh ranked Niigata Albirex (4-6) 105-89. The game without a history. Akita Happinets led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was swingman Ricky Woods (194-84, college: SE Louisiana) who scored 28 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Michael Gardener (182-81, college: SE Louisiana) chipped in 20 points and 9 assists. Five Akita Happinets players scored in double figures. Guard Nile Murry (193-83, college: TCU) produced a double-double by scoring 30 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and forward Erron Maxey (198-78, college: Providence) added 15 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Akita Happinets have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 10-2 record. Loser Niigata Albirex dropped to the ninth place with six games lost. Akita Happinets will meet at home Hamamatsu Phoenix (#4) in the next round. Niigata Albirex will play against Iwate Big Bulls (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Niigata Albirex: N.Murry 30+11reb+5ast, E.Maxey 15+8reb, Y.Ikeda 15+1reb, K.Sato 6+4ast, H.Kondo 6+1reb, S.Komatsu 5+2reb+1ast
Akita NH: R.Woods 28+7reb, M.Gardener 20+9ast, D.Sweetney 16+9reb+1ast, S.Ocitti 11+6reb, Y.Kikuchi 11+2reb+2ast, K.Shoji 6+5reb+1ast
gschID: 141952


Saitama Bron. - Toyama Grouses 93-74

There was a minor upset when 6th ranked Toyama Grouses (5-7) were rolled over on the road by ninth ranked Saitama Broncos (5-7) 93-74 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Saitama Broncos. Toyama Grouses was better in third quarter 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Saitama Broncos forced 24 Toyama Grouses turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The game was dominated by American players. Swingman John Humphrey (188-80, college: Middle Tenn.St., agency: Court Side) scored 27 points and 6 steals to lead the charge for the winners and forward John Flowers (200-89, college: W.Virginia, agency: KMG Sports Management) chipped in 22 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Four Saitama Broncos players scored in double figures. Swingman Brian Harper (206-85, college: Paine, agency: Pro One Sports) responded with 15 points and 9 rebounds and power forward Devin Searcy (208-89, college: Dayton, agency: Pro One Sports) scored 17 points and 5 rebounds. Toyama Grouses' coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Saitama Broncos moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Toyama Grouses and Yokohama BC. Saitama Broncos will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Toyama Grouses: D.Searcy 17+5reb+1ast, B.Harper 15+9reb+1ast, I.Brown 14+1ast, H.Johnson 7+5reb+3ast, M.Joho 6+6reb+6ast, T.Mito 5+3reb+3ast
Saitama Bron.: J.Humphrey 27+4reb+2ast, J.Flowers 22+6reb+1ast, Y.Kitamuki 11+2reb+2ast, D.Terashita 10+3reb+1ast, K.Satterfield 8+5reb+12ast, G.Hughes 6+4reb
gschID: 141953


Shimane SM - Fukuoka Rizing 90-78

The game in Shimane was also quite interesting. One of their biggest challengers Fukuoka Rizing (7-5) played at the court of sixth ranked Shimane Magic (7-5). Shimane Magic defeated Fukuoka Rizing 90-78 on Sunday. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Fukuoka Rizing. The game was mostly controlled by Shimane Magic. Fukuoka Rizing was better in third quarter 15-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Shimane Magic made 17-of-18 free shots (94.4 percent) during the game. The game was dominated by American players. Forward Michael Parker (202-81, college: Evergreen St.) scored 27 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Reggie Golson (201-81, college: SE Missouri St., agency: Court Side) chipped in 16 points during the contest. Swingman Carlos Dixon (201-81, college: Virginia Tech) responded with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists and swingman Kevin Palmer (198-87, college: Texas A&M - C.C., agency: VVG Sports) scored 18 points and 5 steals (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Shimane Magic moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams including defeated Fukuoka Rizing. Shimane Magic will face Kyoto Hannar. (#6) on the road in the next round. Fukuoka Rizing will play against the league's second-placed Sendai 89ers and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fukuoka Rizing: G.Hamilton 19+2reb+1ast, K.Palmer 18+4reb+1ast, C.Dixon 15+7reb+6ast, J.Nakanishi 11+2reb+2ast, G.Inman 8+7reb, A.Takeno 7
Shimane SM: M.Parker 27+7reb+3ast, R.Golson 16+4reb+3ast, B.Puckett 14+4reb+3ast, E.Yamamoto 10+6reb+6ast, J.Davis 8+7reb, T.Yokoo 6+2reb
gschID: 141954


Takamatsu FA - Kyoto Hannar. 67-77

Bottom-ranked Takamatsu FA (0-12) is still winless. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their 12th consecutive match to fifth ranked Kyoto Hannar. (7-5) 77-67. The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Kyoto Hannar. made 20-of-23 charity shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Kyoto Hannar. had a 28-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. American center Lance Allred (211-81, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds. The other American import guard Jermaine Boyette (188-78, college: Weber St., agency: SportsTalent) contributed with 17 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Kyoto Hannar.'s coach Honoo Hamaguchi used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. STVn center Nyika Williams (203-87, college: Pacific) replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds and American forward Michael Nunnally (203-86, college: Pacific) added 9 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Takamatsu FA. Kyoto Hannar. moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams. Takamatsu FA at the other side still closes the standings with 12 games lost. Kyoto Hannar.'s next round opponent will be Shimane Magic (#4) at home. Takamatsu FA will play against Shiga L-Stars (#3) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Takamatsu FA: N.Williams 16+12reb, P.Butorac 13+1reb, H.Kikuchi 11+5reb+1ast, M.Nunnally 9+8reb+2ast, M.Suzuki 8+3reb+2ast, S.Takada 7+3reb+3ast
Kyoto Hannar.: L.Allred 18+15reb, J.Boyette 17+9reb+4ast, T.Kawabe 12+2reb, R.Rickert 9+4reb, Y.Inoue 7+1reb, L.Cummard 7+2reb+3ast
gschID: 141955


Iwate Big Bulls - Hamamatsu P. 82-91

Everything went according to plan when fourth ranked Hamamatsu Phoenix (7-5) beat on the road 10th ranked Iwate Big Bulls (1-11) 91-82 on Sunday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Iwate Big Bulls won third quarter 27-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Hamamatsu Phoenix won last quarter 27-20. Iwate Big Bulls were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Jermaine Dixon (191-87, college: Pittsburgh, agency: VVG Sports) scored 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Ivorian-French power forward Mamadou Lamizana (207-81, college: Rutgers, agency: VVG Sports) chipped in 14 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Hamamatsu Phoenix's coach Ryuji Kawai used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to get some rest. American forward Thomas Kennedy (201-87, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded with 31 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward LaShawn Malloy (209-84, college: New Orleans) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 13 rebounds. Four Iwate Big Bulls players scored in double figures. Defending champion moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams. Iwate Big Bulls lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with 11 games lost. Hamamatsu Phoenix will face league's leader Akita Happinets on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Iwate Big Bulls will play against Niigata Albirex (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Iwate Big Bulls: T.Kennedy 31+6reb+2ast, S.Coleman 12+7reb+2ast, L.Malloy 11+13reb+1ast, M.Sawaguchi 10+1reb, H.Kantake 7+1reb, Y.Yamamoto 5+1reb+8ast
Hamamatsu P.: J.Dixon 21+8reb+3ast, W.Arnold 15+2reb+1ast, M.Lamizana 14+9reb+2ast, Y.Yamaguchi 10+1reb, A.Ohta 8+2reb, L.Pomare 8+5reb+2ast
gschID: 141951




*****************************************************
  KOSOVO   


Standings - Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
 1. Trepca 8-0 
 2. Sigal Prishtina 7-1 
 3. Kolegji Univer. 5-3 
 4. Peja 4-4 
 5. Bashkimi 4-4 
 6. Drita 2-6 
 7. Kosova 1-6 
 8. Futura 0-7 


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


CSKA Moscow jumps to 6-0, books ticket for Euroleague Top 16 - by Eurobasket News
CSKA - Zalgiris 95-82

CSKA Moscow is the first team who booked a ticket for the Euroleague Top 16. The Russian powerhouse handed 95-82 loss to Zalgiris jumping to 6-0 record in Group A. Of course, they stay alone on top of this pool. On the other side, Zalgiris closes the standings with 1-5. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) led the hosts with 21 points and 7 rebounds (valuation 33). Alexey Shved had 16 points, 5 boards and 5 assists, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) (7 as) and Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) (6 rebs) netted 14 pts each. In Zalgiris, Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) delivered 22 points. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) stopped to 12 pts apiece. Zalgiris was 24-25 ahead after ten minutes of play, but CSKA responded with 27-20 until the halftime for 6-point lead. The hosts jumped to 56-45 at the beginning of Q3, but Zalgiris came to 73-66 for rest of the period. Mini 6-2 run brought plus 11 to CSKA again and there were 7 minutes remaining. It was too much for the guests and CSKA celebrated its sixth straight Euroleague win this season. In the next round, CSKA will meet Brose Baskets on the road, while Zalgiris wait Unicaja.

CSKA: Nenad Krstic 21+7 boards, Alexey Shved 16+5 boards+5 as, Milos Teodosic 14+7 boards, Andrey Vorontsevich 14+6 boards
Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 22, Marko Popovic 12, Tomas Delininkaitis 12

*****************************************************
  MALTA   


Athleta and Loyola advance into Louis Borg Cup semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Athleta and Loyola will play in the Louis Borg Cup semifinals. Athleta will now take on Loyola, while Siggiewi will face Depiro in another semifinal battle next weekend.
Athleta overcame Luxol 140:120 on aggregate. Athleta enjoyed a 7-point buffer after the opening game. They gave little chance for Luxol in the return leg. Athleta took a 38:33 halftime lead. They maintained the advantage throughout the second half registering a well-deserved win at the end 72:59.
Loyola enjoyed a 15-point buffer entering the second game against Floriana. But Floriana put all sorts of pressure on their opponents in Game 2. They grabbed a 32:26 halftime lead with Brad Williams (203-G-75) orchestrating comeback rally. Floriana extended their lead but Loyola stopped the rot late in the regulation with the help of Rashanti Harris (203-F) and lost by just 8 points 66:74 winning the series on aggregate.

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


1/4 Final MNE CUP : Easy job for Mornar,Teodo and Lovcen - by Dragan Scepanovic
Mornar, Lovcen, Teodo, Sutjeska and Jedinstvo won a place in the quarter-finals of Montenegro. Ranking among the top eight on Tuesday provided a Mogren, duel Zeta vs Ulcinj has been delayed, and Buducnost was free at this stage of the competition.Mornar win against Kotor 109:59 (32:16, 23:16, 22:14, 27:13), and justified the role of favorites, once again best player in team of Mornar was Filip Barovic (208-F/C-90) , and Lovcen, which is titled Danilovgrad beat the home team 86:77 (20:16 , 26:25, 17:13, 23:23).Teodo had no problems and achieved a resounding victory in the away team Pljevlja 105:68 (21:21, 29:21, 31:13, 24:13), Sutjeska on his floor was better than ABS Primorje 73:67 (17: 20, 22:17, 10:16, 14:14), while the Jedinstvo win against Center away 80:72 (22:18, 20:14, 21:16, 17:24).Reach the quarterfinals and won the Mogren, who beat away team Podgorica 82:81.



Basketball team of Montenegro will be in the third hat - by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball team of Montenegro will be in the third hat for qualify for the European Championship that will be the 2013th with Latvia, Belgium, Portugal, Hungary and Sweden. Draw will be held on 4 December in Germany Freising, a qualifier for the European Championship will be played from 15 August to 11 September next year.
In the first Serbian, Germany, Turkey, Finland, Georgia and Croatia. Ukraine, Poland, Bulgaria, Bosnia, Israel and Italy are the second and the Czech Republic, Estonia, Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria and Azerbaijan districts. In the fifth hat, Belarus, Slovakia, Romania, Albania, Luxembourg and Cyprus, while the Island in the sixth hat.

*****************************************************
  MOROCCO   


Fairley inks with Rabat - by Kristian Santiago
American forward/center Thomas Fairley (206-F/C-82, college: Lamar), who stayed in Germany after the last season with Licher Basket Baeren, signed this week with Fath US de Rabat in Morocco.
The forward tallied 8,1 ppg and 5,9 rpg for Lich in the Pro B and recently supported a German amateur-league team to stay in shape.

Standings - Men
D1 Standings
 1. ASS Sale 5-1 
 2. RSB Berkane 4-1 
 3. PCS Plazza C. 4-2 
 4. MAF Fez 4-2 
 5. WAC Casabl. 3-2 
 6. FUS Rabat 2-3 
 7. KAC 2-4 
 8. CRA Hoceima 1-3 
 9. RCA Casabl. 1-4 
 10. IRT Tanger 1-5 


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


Kenyon Martin spoils CBA debut, Marbury takes 2nd victory - by Eurobasket News
Former NBA top draft Martin Kenyon (6'9''-F-77, college: Cincinnati) failed to live up expectations in his CBA debut as Xinjiang Guanghui lost 102-90 away to Shangxi Zhongyu in the Chinese Basketball Association league (CBA) on Tuesday.

The recruitment of Martin has boosted Xinjiang's hopes of winning their first ever CBA league title this season. However, the former NBA finals starter disappointed Chinese fans as he scored just 16 points and grabbed nine rebounds in his first CBA game.

The absence of injured Quincy Douby, the top scorer for Xinjiang, was clearly felt on the court as the three-time CBA runners-up could not find their rhythm against Zhongyu.

Douby averaged 29.8 points and 4.57 assists per match last season.

Shanxi, a team mainly consisted of young players, fired up themselves on the offensive side with five players reaching double figures.

Charles Gaines, top scorer of the CBA league last season, wrapped up game-high 25 points and 14 rebounds. Guard Marcus Williams contributed 20 points.

Duan Jiangpeng, 21, became the biggest discovery of the team this season. He made five of his six three-point attempts, scoring 20 points.

Xinjiang new signing forward Meng Duo topped the team with 19 points. Local star centers Tang Zhengdong and Bater has six and 12 points respectively.

Xinjiang went off to a slow start in the game and Shanxi made full use of their energy and speed to deliver a 21-8 run.

Xinjang shooter Xu Guochong buried a couple of three pointers to trim the gap to eight, but Duan responded with his accurate attack to keep Shanxi eight points ahead Xinjiang at the end of the first half.

Xinjiang failed to rejuvinate in the second half, allowing Shanxi to extend the lead as large as 21 points in the final quarter. The visitors lost their spirit afterward, swallowing the 22-point defeat.

Another former NBA star Marbury Stephon (6'2''-G-77, college: Georgia Tech) got better luck. He pocketed his second straight victory with the Beijing Ducks.

Beijing survived a fierce battle, beating Liaoning Hengye 102-101 with a last-minute thriller.

Marbury had a game-high 30 points. Star center Randolph Morris grabbed 24 points and nine rebounds.

Defending champion Guangdong Hongyuan, inspired by Chinese NBA big man Yi Jianlian, defeated Jiangsu Dragons 105-90 at home. Yi topped the game with 30 points and 17 rebounds.

In other games on Wednesday, Shandong Gold beat Shanghai Sharks 98-95, Zhejiang Guangsha beat Qingdao Doublestar 111-94, Bayi Fubang beat Fujian SBS 111-106, Tianjin Ronggang beat Jilin Northeast Tigers 117-114.

Courtesy of www.chinadaily.com.cn

Sources: Sides hope to resolve lawsuits - by Eurobasket News
Representatives for the league and the locked-out players in the NBA's ongoing labor dispute, which reached its 146th day Wednesday, have re-opened negotiations to make one last run at trying to start the season on Christmas Day.

The two sides agreed Monday to resume talks for the first time in nearly two weeks, according to sources close to the situation, with discussions commencing Tuesday aimed at resolving lawsuits recently filed by the players. Talks are expected to resume Friday after a break for Thanksgiving, with almost no wiggle room left to get a deal done in time for Christmas.

The primary push for the talks, according to The New York Times, is a desire to try to finally end to the five-month impasse in time to start the season on Dec. 25, which has historically marked the start of the NBA's annual introduction to the national network TV schedule. But the latest talks are considered part of settlement talks relating to the litigation as opposed to outright negotiations, according to the Times.

The Times also reported Wednesday that the league has a 66-game season lined up if the sides can agree to the outline of a new labor deal in time for Christmas Day games. NBA commissioner David Stern has said on numerous occasions that the league needs a month after the sides shake hands to finish putting a new labor deal in writing and allow for a compressed training camp and free agency period before the regular season begins.

NBA Players Association attorney Jonathan Schiller, in a statement issued Wednesday night, confirmed the scheduling of 'preliminary settlement discussions with the NBA immediately after Thanksgiving.'

Yet there were sources on both sides late Wednesday preaching caution, noting that the talks have collapsed several times when a deal appeared to be within reach.

Sources identified Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, Boston and the Los Angeles Lakers as the teams pushing hardest behind the scenes for a deal in principle by the end of the weekend to ensure that a 'representative' season can be staged.

And at least three teams that requested anonymity, according to interviews conducted Wednesday by ESPN.com, are highly optimistic that the framework of a deal can be struck by Monday.

But one source close to talks, referring to those aforementioned collapses when a deal seemed imminent at various points during the past two months, said Wednesday night: 'Are the parties talking again? Yes. Have they done anything [significant]? No.'

Sources told ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard that, in addition to the lawyers on both sides that have joined proceedings, many of the negotiators involved in this week's talks are the same ones who were negotiating before the union filed a 'disclaimer of interest' last week: Stern and deputy commissioner Adam Silver on the league side; Players Association executive director Billy Hunter and Ron Klempner on the players' side. Hunter and his team are prevented from negotiating a new labor agreement now that the union has disbanded, but settlement talks could lead to the reforming of the union, which could then ratify a new collective bargaining agreement.

The Times, meanwhile, reported that Hunter has hired Jim Quinn, formerly the union's chief outside counsel, to replace union lawyer Jeffrey Kessler and help Hunter complete the deal. Kessler has had a combustible relationship with Stern and other owners during the past few months of negotiations; Quinn played a similar closer's role in the 1998-99 lockout and is said to have good relationships with both Hunter and Stern after years of participating in such talks.

One source told Broussard that it was Quinn -- a litigation lwyer with a long history of representing player organizations in the NFL, Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer and the NHL in addition to the NBA -- who brought the parties back together Monday.

Yahoo! Sports, which first reported the resumption of talks Wednesday, reported that union president Derek Fisher has not been part of this week's negotiations. The union filed the disclaimer last week to dissolve itself and file a series of antitrust suits against the NBA in Minnesota following the latest breakdown in talks, but those legal machinations could prevent Fisher from rejoining the talks so as to ensure that the league can't accuse the union of dissolving itself as a mere negotiating ploy and continuing to operate with same basic structure as before.

The NBA said Wednesday that 'it remains in favor of a negotiated resolution (to the lockout)' but declined to comment further.

A 66-game game season, with the playoffs pushed back at least a week later than normal, would be 16 games shorter than the usual 82-game regular season and six shorter than the 72-game season with a Dec. 15 start date that Stern offered to the union before it disbanded.

There were three games on the league's original Christmas schedule -- Boston at New York on ESPN, followed by an ABC doubleheader featuring an NBA Finals rematch pitting Miami at Dallas and Chicago visiting the Los Angeles Lakers -- but league officials are expected to draft an entirely new schedule if a deal can be struck to save the season.

Sources close to the situation told ESPN.com that Stern has privately surveyed a handful of owners about their willingness to ease the restrictions on the proposed mid-level exception in a new labor agreement, one of the biggest areas of contention on the players' side.

The players continue to push for the full mid-level exception to be made available to all teams -- not just teams under the luxury-tax threshold -- and sources say league officials have discussed whether to make that concession in their next proposal to the players.

Based on the league's most recent proposal rejected by the union on Nov. 13, teams that stay out of luxury-tax territory would be able to offer free agents the full mid-level exception, worth $5 million annually for a maximum of four years. But tax teams would be restricted to offer a so-called 'mini' mid-level worth a maximum of $3 million annually over three seasons.

It is believed the league's next proposal to the players will contain tweaks to some of the 'system' issues that the players have strongly objected to in recent negotiations. The players have long insisted -- in exchange for accepting a 50/50 split of annual basketball-related income after earning a 57-percent share of BRI in the final year of the previous labor deal -- that the league's proposed restrictions against luxury-tax teams must be relaxed.

The Times reported that the two sides have essentially resumed talks from where they were Nov. 10, working from a league-issued proposal that features a 50-50 split of revenues, shorter contracts and various restrictions on the league's biggest spenders.

Neither side, according to The Times, has yet attempted to back away from previously negotiated 'system' specifics, keeping alive hope that the owners and players can reach an agreement on the five or so system issues that prompted the players -- complaining that the rules would too severely restrict player movement -- to reject the NBA's offer and dissolve the union.

David Boies, one of the attorneys representing the players, has repeatedly said he hopes that the NBA will be moved to settle out of court rather than risk a potentially lengthy trial that could end with players being awarded roughly $6 billion in damages.

Courtesy of ESPN

NBA stars on board for 'Obama Classic' - by Eurobasket News
Lakers legend Magic Johnson (6'10''-G-59, college: Michigan St.) has joined the list of past and present basketball superstars who will play in an exhibition game in Washington, D.C., next month to raise funds for President Barack Obama's re-election campaign.

An invitation was sent out to supporters Wednesday offering an 'MVP' package priced at $35,800 per ticket to the 'Obama Classic,' the Los Angeles Times reported. The package includes the chance to shoot around with the players beforehand, watch the game courtside and then eat dinner with them afterward.

There are other packages available, including $20,000 for the same privileges minus dinner and $5,000 for courtside seats.

'Please feel free to pass this invitation along to others whom you believe may be interested in joining us for a very fun, once-in-a-lifetime and unforgettable experience in support of President Obama!' wrote Shefali Razdan Duggal, national finance chairman for the president's re-election campaign, in the invitation.

Republican National Committee spokesman Sean Spicer said, 'We need less of a focus on his job and more focus on getting the millions of Americans who can't even make $38,500 some help.'

Players who have confirmed they will play in the Obama Classic Basketball Game include Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, Blake Griffin, John Wall, Chris Paul and Ray Allen.

Former women's greats Cheryl Miller and Tina Thompson and retired big men Alonzo Mourning, Dikembe Mutombo and Patrick Ewing will also play in the game on Dec. 12. The exact location of the event is yet to be announced.

Funds raised at the game will go to the Obama Victory Fund, an account managed by the Democratic Party and Obama's re-election campaign.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com

After two days of talks, sides break until Friday - by Eurobasket News
After two days of meetings, NBA officials and players will resume talks on Friday to try to end the lockout and resume play on Christmas Day, league sources told Yahoo! Sports.

Representatives of the owners and players met in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday, as Y! Sports first reported, and discussed the possible settlement of the players recent antitrust lawsuits which would essentially be an agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement. These are no longer considered collective bargaining talks but rather a settlement of pending litigation.

While the two sides have enough time to negotiate a deal for a shortened schedule for the 2011-12 season, they likely would have to reach agreement no later than this weekend if the league also hopes to save its showcase games scheduled for Christmas. NBA commissioner David Stern has repeatedly said the league would need about 30 days after an agreement is reached before the season could start. The league could still find a way to start on shorter than 30 days notice, but not more than several days, sources said.

Negotiations between the two sides broke off on Nov. 14 after the union decided to disband. Players Association president Derek Fisher (notes) wasnt in New York for the meetings this week, but could return as soon as Friday, sources said.

The NBA wants to play a 66-game regular season, as reported by the New York Times, and would need an agreement in place by early next week to make that possible.

The two sides will meet again Friday, and theres a push within the league office and from Players Association executive director Billy Hunter to have Fisher in the room, league sources said. Nevertheless, Fisher hasnt committed to attending the meeting, perhaps because of legal concerns about how a judge in the federal suit could view his participation. Theres still a sense the owners could be setting up a trap for the Players Association, perhaps leading them on in talks now only to pull the plug and make a case to the judge that Hunters and Fishers involvement in the meetings shows theyre still acting as a union and that the disclaimer of interest and subsequent lawsuits were nothing more than negotiating tactics.

They felt they needed Derek there to continue, one high-ranking league official told Yahoo! Sports.

Several ownership sources were enthusiastic over the removal of polarizing Players Association counsel, Jeffrey Kessler.

As one ownership source said recently, Remember, the NFL got its deal done when [Kessler] finally was out of the room.

If the two sides agree on the framework of a deal, Fisher can resume an active role because the players can simply reinstate themselves back from a trade association into a union.

When asked if the two sides had made much progress on a settlement to the lockout, the source said, Not yet, no.

Hunter didnt inform the Players Associations executive committee of the meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday in a call on Wednesday morning, and those players didnt learn about the secret meetings until Yahoo! Sports reported them on Wednesday afternoon.

Several league sources say there isnt significant ownership support for a regular season that consists of less than 60 games, but few see a scenario where Stern cancels the season before Jan. 1, 2012. In the 1998-99 lockout, a deal wasnt reached until early January, and the league played a 50-game regular season.

CBSSports.com reported on Tuesday that Jim Quinn had been contacted recently by both sides to act as a mediator in resuming talks. Quinn was previously an outside counsel for the Players Association and played a part in cutting a deal to end the 1998-99 lockout.

In their last round of negotiations as a union, the players had agreed to accept a 50-50 revenue split with the owners, provided they resolved some of the system issues that could limit player movement. Stern had repeatedly said the owners were done negotiating and that the players must accept the leagues proposal or risk a worse offer.

The players rejected the deal and hired antitrust attorney David Boies to help represent them. Boies has repeatedly said the goal of the players litigation is to spur the owners to start settlement talks.

Lawyers representing the players initially filed two antitrust suits against the league that have since been consolidated into one in Minneapolis. Hunter told reporters on Tuesday he thought a magistrate could be appointed in the case to begin settlement talks early next week.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports

Second round pick Charles Jenkins signs in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Charles Jenkins (6'3''-G-89) will continue his career in Italy. The NBA second round pick penned a deal with Banca Tercas Teramo. They compete in SerieA. Jenkins was selected as 44th overall pick at the latest NBA draft. The Golden State Warriors selected the player, but he will made pro debut overseas. Charles Jenkins is a product of the Hofstra University, where he graduated this year. He had 22.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 4.8 apg for his school as a senior. Jenkings played great in all four years with Hofstra. He was named All-CAA Player of the Year -10, 11. In 2008, Jenkins was awarded with All-CAA Freshman of the Year.

NBA, players resumed negotiations on Tuesday - by Eurobasket News
In an effort to end the lockout this week so that the season can begin by Christmas Day, the NBA and players restarted negotiations on Tuesday, two sources said.

Discussions were expected to continue Wednesday.

'We should know more by later this evening,' one source said.

Settling the players' antitrust lawsuit against the owners would now need to be part of a resolution of the dispute, but any deal the parties' attorneys were able to reach would lead to a new collective bargaining agreement.

Derek Fisher (6'1''-PG-74, agency: Priority Sports, college: UALR) is no longer a part of discussions, sources said, which is consistent with the disclaimer of interest that disbanded the union. While Billy Hunter remains as a member of the players' legal team, Fisher's only role was as union president.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com via Adrian Wojnarowski/Yahoo! Sports (via Twitter)

*****************************************************
  NBLCANADA   


Lightning get ready to bolt for the road - by Eurobasket News
The London Lightning will get a pretty good idea of how good a road team they are after Thursday's home game at the John Labatt Centre.

There aren't many more chances to watch the Lightning at home until the calendar changes.

After their game against the Moncton Miracles, the Lightning will only have one more John Labatt Centre game in 2011, that on Dec. 10 against the Oshawa Power.

The Lightning play seven of their next nine games away from the JLC. They've accumulated a 6-2 record to lead the National Basketball League of Canada, but six of their first nine games have been at home.

London is 2-1 on the road.

'All the teams were supposed to hand in 50 potential dates for 18 games because of arena availability. Oshawa only handed in 26 so we had to work around their schedule,' Lightning general manager Taylor Brown said.

Brown said the situation isn't all bad.

'December is a time when there are a lot of parties and people have a lot to do,' he said. 'But only playing one game at home in December, our job is to keep the buzz going.'

The Miracles come to London still looking for their first win. They are 0-6.

The Lightning have made a roster change after their win Saturday over the Power. Returning is forward Albert White, who was with the team before the season began but had some issues with immigration paperwork. He had to go home to Michigan while his work visa was straightened out.

Brandon Dean was moved to the injury list to make room for White, a 6-foot-6 forward/guard who began his collegiate career at the Michigan. He left the Wolverines after his freshman year, transferring to the University of Missouri.

His freshman year (1998) was the year Michigan was implicated in a basketball scandal when a gambler was giving loans to players in order to launder gambling money. Four players, the best known being Chris Webber, were implicated.

White left the team the year after the scandal and although he was questioned, he was never implicated. His leaving Michigan had nothing to do with the scandal.

'He can play,' Taylor said. 'He's a hard-nosed guy who is really tough.'

White left Missouri in his junior year to enter the NBA draft, but was not picked. His short stay at Missouri, however, was impressive.

He was a first team all-Big 12 Conference player and CNN/Sports Illustrated Big 12 player of the year. White led the Tigers to their best season in the Big 12 era in 1998-99.

The Lightning are still tinkering with their roster. Getting bigger down low is still a priority and the team is expected to bring in one more player next week.

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com

Storm announces roster moves - by Eurobasket News
The Summerside Storm announced two roster moves on Wednesday afternoon.

A media release issued by the National Basketball League of Canada team says that player Dwight Brewington (6'5''-G-84, college: Liberty) has been released due to personal issues, and Troy Gottselig (6'8''-F-87) has been activated from the injured reserve list.

'It's unfortunate we had to let Dwight go, said Storm head coach Joe Salerno. He is an extremely talented player, and I felt he could have helped our team this season.

Unfortunately, he has some off-the-court issues back home in Boston that he needed to deal with. We wish Dwight the best of luck, and I believe he still has a bright future on the court.'

Brewington, a six-foot-five, 210-pound small forward, came to the Storm from Providence College. Brewington was 14-for-33 in shooting from the floor, and ranked 46th overall in the league stats for shooting.

Courtesy of www.journalpioneer.com

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


Top 25 - Men
ACC Ranking
 1. Duke (6) 0-0 (7-0)
 2. Virginia Tech 0-0 (3-1)
 3. Florida St. (22) 0-0 (4-0)
 4. Miami, FL 0-0 (4-0)
 5. N.Carolina (1) 0-0 (4-0)
 6. N.Carolina St. 0-0 (4-1)
 7. Virginia 0-0 (4-1)
 8. Georgia Tech 0-0 (4-2)
 9. Wake Forest 0-0 (3-0)
 10. Clemson 0-0 (2-2)
 11. Maryland 0-0 (2-2)
 12. Boston Coll. 0-0 (1-2)


Stats Leaders - NCAA1
Points Per Game
 Ryne SMITH
  Purdue
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 26
 1. Smith, Purdue26.0 
 2. Wattad, Chattano.24.0 
 3. Smith, NC-Wilmi.23.0 
 4. Stoglin, Maryland22.0 
 5. Oladipo, Indiana21.0 
 6. McDougald, Jackso.21.0 
 7. Harris, Wake F.20.0 
 8. Howell, N.Caroli.19.5 
 9. Swansey, Tennesse.19.0 
 10. McKie, Wake Fore.19.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Draymond GREEN
  Michigan.
  (200-F-90)
  Avg: 18
 1. Green, Michigan.18.0 
 2. Finney-Smith, Virg.16.0 
 3. Smith, Clemson14.0 
 4. Shannon, Florida12.0 
 5. Howell, N.Caroli.11.5 
 6. Plumlee, Duke11.0 
 7. Zlovaric, Chattano.10.0 
 8. Desrosiers, Wake F.10.0 
 9. Henson, N.Carolina9.5 
 10. Drummond, Loyol.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Kendall MARSHALL
  N.Carolina
  (190-G-91)
  Avg: 10
 1. Marshall, N.Caroli.10.0 
 2. Smith, Clemson8.0 
 3. Brown, N.Caroli.7.5 
 4. Bell, Chattanooga7.0 
 5. Loucks, Florida St.6.0 
 6. Udofia, Georgia6.0 
 7. Johnson, Belmont6.0 
 8. Finney-Smith, Virg.5.0 
 9. Jackson, Purdue5.0 
 10. Scott, Miami, FL5.0 
Steals Per Game
 Cody ZELLER
  Indiana
  (210-F-)
  Avg: 6
 1. Zeller, Indiana6.0 
 2. Smith, Clemson5.0 
 3. Brown, N.Caroli.4.5 
 4. Jones III, Indiana4.0 
 5. Kennings, Florida3.0 
 6. Moore, Florida A&M3.0 
 7. Raines, Virginia T.3.0 
 8. Cooley, E.Tenn.St.3.0 
 9. Swoope, Miami, FL3.0 
 10. Faust, Maryland3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Carson DESROSIERS
  Wake F.
  (213-C-)
  Avg: 8
 1. Desrosiers, Wake F.8.0 
 2. Henson, N.Carolina5.5 
 3. Finney-Smith, Virg.4.0 
 4. Mosley, Maryland3.0 
 5. Inameti, Tennesse.3.0 
 6. Elston, Indiana2.0 
 7. Jennings, Clemson2.0 
 8. Plumlee, Duke2.0 
 9. Lawson, Purdue2.0 
 10. Akpejiori, Miami,2.0 


Second round pick Charles Jenkins signs in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Charles Jenkins (6'3''-G-89) will continue his career in Italy. The NBA second round pick penned a deal with Banca Tercas Teramo. They compete in SerieA. Jenkins was selected as 44th overall pick at the latest NBA draft. The Golden State Warriors selected the player, but he will made pro debut overseas. Charles Jenkins is a product of the Hofstra University, where he graduated this year. He had 22.6 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 4.8 apg for his school as a senior. Jenkings played great in all four years with Hofstra. He was named All-CAA Player of the Year -10, 11. In 2008, Jenkins was awarded with All-CAA Freshman of the Year.

Duke beats Kansas for fifth Maui title - by Eurobasket News
The lead was two, shot clock winding down. Seemingly every Kansas player in his face, Tyler Thornton let a 3-pointer fly.

Barely able to see the rim through the sea of arms in front of him, Thornton knocked it down, keeping Duke on the throne as the kings of Maui.

Thornton capped a thrilling game between basketball behemoths, hitting an off-balance three-pointer with 20 seconds left to give the sixth-ranked Blue Devils enough cushion to finish off a 68-61 win over No. 14 Kansas for its fifth Maui Invitational title.

'It's a dream shot,' Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said. 'People will say it's a lucky shot, but I'll say I'm lucky to have him on my team. Sometimes you're on a bus with a guy who deserves and for that moment we were on his bus. Thank goodness he knew how to drive it.'

Thornton hit one three-pointer with 1:10 left and put the Blue Devils ahead for good with his second, sending the crowd into a frenzy and Duke (7-0) to another title.

A player who had taken nine shots all season hit the two biggest to keep the Blue Devils undefeated in Maui Invitational at 15-0.

'I saw the rim, but it was a tough shot,' said Thornton, who had just one other point.

The Blue Devils and Jayhawks went toe-to-toe from the start, electrifying the crowd with the kind of compelling counterpunching you'd expect from blue blood programs.

Unleashing an array of alley-oops, three-pointers and teeth-jarring picks, they never let the other get too far ahead, with 16 lead changes and 12 ties.

Ryan Kelly (6'11''-F-91) hurt Kansas with his inside-outside game, scoring 17 points to earn MVP honors. Mason Plumlee (6'10''-F-90) gave the Jayhawks fits inside with 17 points and 12 rebounds.

Kansas was led by Thomas Robinson (6'9''-F), who had 16 points and 15 rebounds. Jeff Withey (7'0''-C) provided an unexpected lift with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Tyshawn Taylor had a solid first half on his way 17 points, but tired down the stretch to finish with 11 of Kansas' 17 turnovers.

Fittingly, it came down to a thrilling finish.

Eljiah Johnson hit a three-pointer with 1:33 left to put Kansas (3-2) up 61-60. Thornton answered 23 seconds later, surprising the Jayhawks with a three of his own.

Thornton then put the punctuation on this classic in paradise, dropping in his did-he-just-do-that 3 after Taylor had his 11th turnover at the other end.

'We couldn't have guarded him any better,' Kansas coach Bill Self said. 'That was unbelievable.'

This rare early matchup of college basketball powers had the potential to be one of the most exciting in the 28-year history of the Maui Invitational.

Duke's resume includes four national titles, the winningest coach in Division I history Krzyzewski passed mentor Bobby Knight last week and as strong a following as any team in the country.

Kansas has three national titles, a coach who's won 83 percent of his games in Self and is right up there with the Blue Devils as a fan favorite.

Duke lost its top three scorers from last season, reloaded with another stellar recruiting class, headed by Austin Rivers. Big, versatile and athletic, the Blue Devils outlasted Tennessee to win their Maui opener, then shot past No. 15 Michigan in the semifinals.

Kansas lost a good chunk of its top end, too, not to mention half of its heralded recruiting class because of eligibility issues.

Still, the Jayhawks have Robinson, Taylor and three of those talented freshmen.

Kansas opened the Maui Invitational by bumping off gritty Georgetown, then outlasted UCLA in the semifinals after nearly blowing all of a 20-point lead.

By getting through one of the toughest brackets ever at the Maui Invitational, these two elite teams set up a championship game that figured to be as sparkling as the Pacific Ocean just outside.

The atmosphere inside quaint Lahaina Civic Center fit the matchup, with the rowdy fans from each team trading chants, cheers and boos.

'This is what the Maui Invitational is all about,' Krzyewski said.

The show lived up to the billing, starting with Rivers' deep, leg-splaying three-pointer for the game's first points and an alley-oop by Miles Plumlee.

Robinson shook off a shot to the face in the first 15 seconds to throw down a pose-after-it dunk and Taylor had a surprising three-point play on his way to 13 first-half points, asking his teammates with an incredulous look if the shot went in.

Kansas also got a lift from Withey, who had 10 points after averaging 6.3 the first four games, to take a 35-31 lead at halftime.

The highlights continued in the second half.

Withey scored on an alley-oop from Taylor, who had an up-and-under reverse layup the next trip. Seth Curry opened with a three-pointer, Kelly followed with one of his own.

It kept going like that until Thornton provided the knockout blow in a memorable Maui finale.

'Give him credit; I don't know if he even saw the rim when he took the shot,' Self said. 'It was a great shot and that was the ballgame. That was game.'

An amazing one at that.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Novack's 22 points leads No. 15 Michigan to win over UCLA for third place at Maui Invitational - by Eurobasket News
Zack Novak (6'4''-G-90) scored a career-high 22 points, Tim Hardaway Jr. (6'5''-G-92) added 20 and No. 15 Michigan rolled over UCLA 79-63 on Wednesday for third place in the Maui Invitational.

Michigan (5-1) played well at both ends to build a modest lead in the first half and ran away with it in the second. The Wolverines made 15 of 23 shots in the second half and hit 62 percent overall to bounce back from a tough loss to No. 6 Duke in the semifinals.

Jon Horford (6'9''-F) scored all 12 of his points in the first half for Michigan.

UCLA (1-4) came to Maui with two embarrassing losses and headed back home two tough ones to continue one of its worst starts in years.

Travis Wear (6'10''-F-90) had 16 points, Joshua Smith and Jerime Anderson 12 each and UCLA shot just 4 of 17 from 3-point range.

The Wolverines and Bruins each followed encouraging wins with disappointing losses in Maui.

Michigan handled No. 8 Memphis pressure in the opener, playing with poise down the stretch in a 73-61 win.

The Wolverines struggled early against Duke in the semifinals to fall behind by 16 and tried to fight back by hitting 11 of their first 12 shots to get within five. Michigan couldnt slow down Dukes offensive show, though, allowing the Blue Devils to hit 11 3-pointers and shoot 56 percent in the seven-point loss.

The Bruins opened the season with two embarrassing losses and avoided another in the opener by turning a two-point halftime lead against Division II Chaminade into a 92-60 rout.

UCLA staggered at the start of its game against No. 14 Kansas in the semfinals and fought its way back in the second half before fading down the stretch in a 72-56 loss.

The Bruins got off to another slow start against Michigan, missing six of their first eight shots and turning it over four times in the first 8 minutes to fall behind by seven.

It only got marginally better for UCLA the rest of the half.

The Bruins struggled against Michigans patient offense, allowing the Wolverines to hit 14 of 24 shots.

UCLA also struggled shooting from the perimeter, hitting 4 of 11 from 3-point range to trail 38-31 at halftime. Horford made all five of his shots in the half.

Michigan didnt give the Bruins much a chance to try another comeback, dropping in 3-pointers, dunks and scoring on backdoor cuts to push the lead to double digits.

Hardaway had a highlight-reel play by going down the lane for a one-handed dunk and had a scowl for the crowd on his way back then hit a long 3-pointer that put the Wolverines up 63-47.

Michigan kept pushing, getting a layup from Hardaway on a nice rebound tip from Trey Burke, then a 3-pointer and a layup by Evan Smotrycz to go up 72-53 with 4 minutes left.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Kentucky basketball beats Radford 88-40 - by Eurobasket News
Ho-hum, the University of Kentucky basketball team won another game by almost half a hundred. Unlike Sundays scare against Old Dominion, which halted a series of easy victories, the second-ranked Wildcats were back to being the superior squad by a large margin against Radford on Wednesday night.

The teams freshman point guard, Marquis Teague, broke out of a slump, while forwards Terrence Jones (6'9''-F-85) and Anthony Davis (6'10''-F-93) put on an aerial display , and even one of the walk-ons got in on the crowd-pleasing show, as UK rolled to an 88-40 victory at Rupp Arena.

You had a lot of players in there wondering if they were any good and if our team was any good after narrowly escaping that game against the Monarchs, Cats coach John Calipari said. You go, What is wrong with me? So you want them to play well.

Wednesdays visitors obliged. Even when Kentucky (5-0) got off to an ugly start, at one point missing six straight shots and turning the ball over five times in six minutes, the Highlanders were much uglier. They were scoreless for more than nine minutes to start the game and missed their first 12 shots.

The Wildcats led 14-0 with 11:15 to go in the first half, at which point the two teams had hit a combined 6 of 26 shots and coughed up a dozen turnovers. Once Kentucky settled in, though, there was no recovering for Radford (3-4), which finished the first half 6 of 34 from the field and missed all 13 of its three-point tries.

The rest of the game turned into a dunk contest for Kentucky, led by the freshman Davis and sophomore Jones. After the Highlanders first bucket, Davis had a dunk, steal and another dunk, and a tip-in to key a Cat-quick, 8-0 run. There were lots of those.

UK led 22-2, then 38-12 with 2:04 left in the first half, after sophomore guard Doron Lamb splashed three consecutive jumpers. Jones, who had earlier volleyball-spiked a Radford shot into the crowd, punctuated the pull-away with a dunk destined for SportsCenter.

With 33.5 seconds left in the first half, Teague lobbed a pass to Jones, who leaped from outside the lane and extended both arms over Highlanders guard Javonte Green to catch it. Then Jones powered through Green and thundered the ball through the rim.

I think thats just pretty much as easy as its going to get him or Anthony, throwing lobs to them, Teague said.

The mostly full house at Rupp erupted and the Wildcats led 45-14 at halftime.

Jones finished with 17 points, eight rebounds and three blocked shots. Davis had 12 points, six rebounds and four blocked shots. Teague, who had more turnovers than assists in each of the three previous games, played perhaps his best game of his young career.

He hit 6 of 8 shots, scored 13 points, dished five assists, had two steals and only turned it over twice. Before Wednesday, Teague had 18 turnovers and just 11 assists for the season.

It feels good to just come out and play good one game, said the freshman, who said that while trying to learn Caliparis dribble-drive motion offense hes been just over-thinking, trying to make the hardest play instead of the easiest play. Coach Cal was telling me all these things he wanted me to do. I just wanted to make sure I went out there and did it to perfection. I didnt want to mess up, but that was causing me to mess up.

There were still plenty of errors to go around Wednesday Kentucky had 16 turnovers but there was more than enough talent gap to make up the difference. Freshman swingman Michael Gilchrist (6'7''-F-93) had 15 points, nine rebounds and three steals. Lamb scored 10 points, all in the first half.

Ugly on offense early, the Wildcats were smothering on defense all night. They forced Radford into 18 turnovers and blocked 10 shots, making the mismatch easily apparent. Despite new coach Mike Jones, who was an assistant on last years giant-killing Virginia Commonwealth team that made the Final Four, the Highlanders have struggled so far.
They lost by 16 to a Penn State team that UK beat by 38 points and fell to a Marist team that lost to the Wildcats by 50 earlier this season. So any excitement over Wednesday nights win must be tempered.

Even so, after the ODU game, any win would be great, Davis said. We needed it to get our confidence back up.
Things got so out of hand, Kentucky walk-on Sam Malone froze a defender on a fast break and knifed into the lane for a crowd-pleasing bucket in the final minute. The Wildcats and their fans got the feel-good game they were looking for.

Up next: Portland on Saturday night at Rupp, the last tune-up before a tough stretch against St. Johns, top-ranked North Carolina and Indiana starting Dec. 1.

Courtesy of www.courier-journal.com

Syracuse rallies past Virginia Tech in NIT semifinals - by Eurobasket News
It took the Syracuse Orange about five minutes to turn a potential upset loss into a victory.

The Orange trailed for the first 27 minutes of its game against Virginia Tech in the semifinals of the NIT Season Tip-Off at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.

But the Syracuse offense woke up just in time as the Orange used a 15-to-4 rally to take the lead and go onto a 69-58 win over the Hokies.

The problem was on offense, Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim said. We just didnt get anything going on offense.

Virginia Tech's methodical offense and tight defense kept Syracuses high-octane offense in check for the first half. Syracuse, which had been averaging 90 points per game, managed just 27 points in the first half.

And then the Orange erupted for 15 points in a 5-minute span that ended Virginia Techs hopes for an upset of the nations 5th-ranked team.

We had one 4- or 5-minute stretch where we got soft, Virginia Tech coach Seth Greenberg said. We got soft defensively.

Syracuse (5-0) will face Stanford in the NITs championship game on Friday at the Garden. Stanford defeated Oklahoma State in Wednesday's first game. Friday's game will start at 5 p.m.

Kris Joseph (6'7''-F-88) led Syracuse with 20 points, while Brandon Triche (6'4''-G-91) added 18. C.J. Fair (6'8''-F) and Dion Waiters (6'4''-G) came off the bench for 12 and 11 points, respectively. Waiters scored all 11 of his points in the second half, sparking Syracuses comeback win. Joseph and Fair both pulled down 10 rebounds.

Syracuse center Fab Melo dominated the paint at times, finishing with six points and five blocked shots.

For the second straight game, Syracuse played without longtime assistant Bernie Fine on the bench. Fine is currently on administrative leave in the wake of allegations that he sexually assaulted two former ball-boys in the 1980s and 1990s.

In the first half of Wednesdays game, it appeared that the cloud of the Fine allegations had enveloped the Orange. But Triche said the Orange has tried to keep things normal while the scandal swirls around the team.

I think were always comfortable, Triche said. Were doing the same things. We are trying to make it as normal as possible.

Syracuse had cruised to victory in each of its first four games, but on Wednesday the Orange proved that it could survive a difficult game against a quality opponent.

Weve had four easy games and when you get that first tough game its going to be difficult, Boeheim said. We went with the veterans in the second half, guys that have been there, and I thought they did a tremendous job.

Syracuse never led in the first half. The Orange trailed by as many as seven points, but cut Virginia Techs lead down to 29-27 at the halftime break.

It was frustrating offensively, Triche said. We couldnt get our offense going. We struggled during the offense. The thing that got us going was our defense.

Syracuse turned a 38-35 deficit into a 50-42 lead in the span of just five minutes. While Virginia Tech had led for the games first 27 minutes, Syracuses game-changing rally gave it a lead bigger than any Tech margin to the point.

Syracuse trailed the entire way before C.J. Fairs slam off a feed from Dion Waivers put the Orange ahead 44-42 with 12:10 remaining in the game.

Fairs two-handed dunk the pro-Syracuse crowd in the Garden what it had been waiting all night for the chance to really cheer.

Joseph started the run with a shake-and-bake move for a 17-foot jumper. Virginia Tech hit two free throws, but Triche came back with a drive and dunk. Virginia Tech scored again, but this time Triche tied the game at 42 with a 3-pointer from the wing.

Then came Fairs dunk and Syracuse had the lead.

After a Tech turnover and a timeout, Fair pushed SUs advantage to 47-42 with a 3-pointer. Then the Orange turned another Tech turnover into a Waiters trey and the Orange led 50-42 with 10:48 remaining.

Waiters 3-pointer gave him his first points of the game. He proceeded to go on a 9-point run, leading to a 56-45 Syracuse lead with 7:49 left.

Kris got going and then Dion, Boeheim said. I thought Brandon really got us going. I thought C.J. Fair was really good in the second half.

I think Virginia Tech is a pretty darn good basketball team, Boeheim added. Were happy to get this win.

Courtesy of http://blog.syracuse.com

Buford, Sullinger help No. 3 OSU rip VMI by 33 - by Eurobasket News
William Buford (6'6''-G) couldn't have been happier that No. 3 Ohio State was playing against VMI, a team that liked to press and run and gun.

Buford scored 23 points and Jared Sullinger (6'9''-F) added 17 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Buckeyes past the Keydets 107-74 on Wednesday night.

'I liked it. I don't know about everybody else, but I did,' Buford said of VMI's uptempo style. 'We just stayed with it and we were making shots on offense and getting rebounds and pushing it.'

Aaron Craft (6'2''-G) had 13 points and eight assists, Deshaun Thomas (6'7''-F) 11 points and J.D. Weatherspoon 10 points for the Buckeyes (5-0), who shot 68 percent from the field.

'I told our guys after the game Monday night, I said, 'Hey, this (VMI) is going to be a fun game for you,'' Ohio State coach Thad Matta said.

Buford, the only senior on Ohio State's roster, had hit just 8 of 23 field-goal attempts in Ohio State's last two games and was shooting just 41.7 percent from the field on the season. But he made 10 of 16 shots from the field, including both 3-point attempts and his only foul shot.

He blamed it on the bad shots he was taking in previous games.

'That's just something that I don't need to do, to be honest,' he said. 'I'm just trying to find the way to take good shots. And Craft's getting me the ball and Sully's setting good screens. Tonight I was just fortunate to knock them down.'

Keith Gabriel led VMI (3-2) with 21 points, with Ron Burks adding 19 and Stan Okoye 12. The Keydets were playing their first ranked opponent since a 107-69 loss to then-No. 4 Ohio State on Nov. 10, 2006. That Buckeyes team went on to the national championship game before falling to defending NCAA champion Florida, 84-75.

'They are as advertised,' coach Duggar Baucom said of the current Buckeyes. 'Sullinger's a load inside and did a great job and we knew he and Buford were the two main guys. We didn't know that Deshaun Thomas could shoot 3s like that.'

The 6-foot-7 Thomas opened things up by hitting 3 of 4 shots behind the arc in the opening half.

The Keydets came in averaging 88.2 points a game (allowing 82) while pumping up a shot every 34 seconds. Early on, the Buckeyes beat them at their own game by hurrying back against the press for easy baskets. Sullinger made all four first-half field-goals, all from within a step of the basket.

'Throughout this week coach has really been on us to make more shots,' Craft said. 'That's definitely one of the things that we needed to do better was to knock down good shots. One of the greatest ways to help us to do so is to get the ball inside to Jared and Deshaun and allow them to get some easy buckets. That just opens it up more for everyone else.'

The Buckeyes ran their home winning streak to 27 in a row, and can tie the third-longest streak in school history when they host Valparaiso on Friday night. They play their first eight games at home before visiting No. 14 Kansas on Dec. 10.

Ohio State led by 13 at the half after shooting 70 percent from the field in the opening 20 minutes. Sullinger then scored on three easy baskets inside to open the second half and the Buckeyes later went on a 23-3 run to put the game out of reach.

'The difference in the game, it was 13 at the half and they came out and pounded it into Jared and he got some baskets,' Baucom said. 'Then, uncharacteristically, we turned it over, which turned into transition (baskets).'

Matta went to his bench for most of the last 12 minutes.

Ohio State has won all three meetings with the Keydets, all at home.

The Buckeyes have been busy this week, but that hasn't seemed to be a problem.

'This is a college player's dream week right now,' Sullinger said with a laugh. 'Three games in five days, that means less practice.'

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


Murray State Beats Anchrage In Shootout Opener - by Sanjey Noriega
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)

Isaiah Canaan (6'0''-G) scored 19 points to lead Murray State to a 64-62 win over Alaska-Anchorage in the opening game of the Great Alaska Shootout on Wednesday night.

Ivan Aska (6'7''-F-90) had 13 points, including a pair of free throws with 5 seconds to play to give the Racers (5-0) a five-point lead. Donte Poole (6'3''-G-89) also had 13 points for Murray State, and Stacy Wilson scored 12 in 17 minutes off the bench.

Canaan had four steals, three assists and was 7 for 10 from the floor.

Alaska-Anchorage, a Division II school, was led by Taylor Rohde (6'9''-F/C) with 19 points. Steve White scored 14 for the Seawolves, who led 24-23 at the half. Abebe Demissie (6'6''-F-89) made a 3-pointer at the buzzer for the game's final margin.


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


Stay-In school championship enter final-8 playoffs - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The first edition of the Stay-In School with Basketball sponsored by First Deepwater Discovery Limited owner of First Deepwater Basketball Club will be rounded off this weekend at the Sports Centre of the University of Lagos.

The championship which enters its final-8 playoffs phase saw thirty-seven schools in the boys cadre and thirty-five in the girls category battling for the One million naira library equipments jackpot at stake.

The eight schools that made it from the four zones that the schools were grouped into were grouped into two groups of four schools each with the University of Lagos International School being seeded in the boys and girls categories.

The qualified schools are Boys cadre; ISL, Indian Language school, Honeyland and Dansol High school in group-A and in group-B we have Doregos Private Academy, Chrisland College, ST Gregory College and Ilupeju Grammar School.

In the girls category are in group-A; ISL, Ilupeju Grammar School, Doregos Private Academy and Dansol High Schhol, while in group-B are Indian Language school, Lagoon International school, Chrisland College and Holychild.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Deepwater Discovery Limited, Babatunde Babalola says the competition is meant to keep the students in school and to also combine academics with sport.

Babalola further informed the media during the draw that aside the winners getting Library equipments, the competition most valuable player in both categories will be awarded full scholarship through secondary while the second and third placed teams in the two categories will be win cash prizes of N500, 000 and N250, 000 respectively.


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


Standings - BLNO
BLNO Standings
 1. Froya Basket 8-1 
 2. Baerum Basket 7-1 
 3. Asker Aliens 7-3 
 4. Gimle BBK 6-4 
 5. Tromso 4-4 
 6. Centrum 4-5 
 7. Ammerud Bskt 2-8 
 8. Langhus 0-12 


*****************************************************
  PANAMA   


Danilo Pinnock released by Israeli Habikaa - by Eurobasket News
Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Geo.Washington) is no longer a member of Habikaa. The Israeli team released him last night. Pinnock joined Habikaa during the pre-season. He appeared five times in Israeli National League averaging 14.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists. Before Habikaa, Danilo Pinnock played in Puerto Rico. He was a member of Arecibo de Capitanes. Pinnock played for the same club in 2010 and helped them win the BSN title. Danilo Pinnock is active member of the Puerto Rican National Team. He had 13.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 2.6 apg for 7 games at the latest FIBA Americas in Mar del Plata.

More info about this case (by David Pick)
B.C. Habikaa dazzled the Israeli basketball fans tonight (Wednesday) addressing the media with an aggressive email message revealing, 'Panamanian guard Danilo Pinnock was released after marijuana was found in his apartment during a Friday night party.' The letter continued accusing Pinnock of keeping valuable information from the team as police authorities informed the club of what happened.
However, Pinnock and other members of the festivity indeed were arrested and taken to custody, but were released the very same night with no charges, without paying any bails or bonds and without a court hearing date. Pinnock told Eurobasket via cellular phone 'I didn't use any drugs, I never failed a drug test in my life and I'm happy to take any test to prove so before I leave.'
Yesterday during practice, Pinnock found out he wouldn't be getting a Christmas break, resulting into him not seeing his three young children for nearly 10 months. Pinnock who's going through a divorce sent the team's owner an email saying he can't stay in Israel a full season without seeing his kids and that it's important to him to be with them during the holidays. The owner responded to his email with an 'OK' and a promise to arrange a flight ticket to Panama. Yet, literally hours later, the team released its official letter accusing Pinnock of marijuana possession. When asked why he didn't inform the team, Pinnock said 'the team did know about what happened. The night we played Galil (Sunday) I got hit in the head and went to the hospital with the team's GM (Effi Shemesh) and we talked about the situation for a little while. I wanted to leave the team to see my kids so it hurts me that they did this. If I were to stay here, none of this would have happened and they would have covered it all up.'
Now that his reputation both as a person and a player is in jeopardy, Pinnock tries to stay positive, 'I know I was in a situation I shouldn't have been in. Obviously I would love to come back and play in Israel, but I doubt that will ever happen because I'll be looked at as a drug user and unfortunately, it will haunt me anywhere I go now.' Pinnock leaves Israel after playing five games with Habikaa, posting averages of 14.2ppg, 6.6rpg and 2.4aspg and 2.8spg, including a crucial game winning buzzer-beater against Bnei Hasharon helping his former team hold a 3-2 record.

*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


SINAG-PILIPINAS SHINES - by Enzo Flojo
It wasn't really a big surprise that Team Sinag-Pilipinas swept the opposition on the way to claiming the basketball gold medal at the 26th Southeast Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia last week. Despite not having all the available aces of Philippine amateur basketball in tow, coach Norman Black still steered the Filipino five to a resounding romp of the competition. (coach Black would've preferred some other players like Calvin Abueva and Ronald Pascual available)

As a team, Sinag blasted its opponents out of the water. The Pinoys won all 5 of their games, and how! Sinag beat its foes by an average of a little over 40 points per game. With the exception of their last elimination round game, which was against the Thais, the Pinoys outrebounded their older, and at times taller, opponents by a considerable margin. Sinag also outshot the opposing squad in every single game, and they won almost all quarters.

Almost.

Malaysia outscored Sinag in the 2nd period of their semifinal game, 22-21, while Thailand kept in step with them, 17-all, in the 3rd frame of the championship match.

What does this tell us? Is it even significant?

It tells us that, though overwhelmingly ahead in terms of sheer talent and athleticism, the Pinoys weren't always fantastic. There were times, in fact, when they seemed tentative or tried to do too much. A quick look at their age, however, could reveal a satisfactory explanation for this. With the exception of skipper Chris Tiu, nobody on the Sinag roster is a day over 24. This is an extremely young team, which means they're hungry to prove themselves, and that they have a tendency to make several unforced errors despite the aforementioned gap in skill compared with their ASEAN neighbors.

Is this significant? Absolutely. There have been several articles expressing how the second major iteration of the Smart-Gilas senior men's national team will be formed primarily by players from Sinag-Pilipinas. This is intriguing. Judging from the squad's performance in Jakarta, my bet is that only three guys on the present Sinag lineup have a great shot at making Gilas 2.0.

These are Kiefer Isaac Ravena (181-G/F-93), Bobby Parks (193-G-92) and Greg Slaughter (211-C-88). The first two guys will make it because, given the fact they're just 18 years old, they possess the basketball IQ that many other older players still don't have. And coupled with their innate talent? Wow.

Slaughter, on the other hand, has the best chance of making Gilas 2.0 because of two things. The first, and most apparent, reason is his height. At just a shade under 7'0', he was the tallest player in the SEA Games, and he has shown that he is way better than another Pinoy 7-footer we all know and love (to criticize) -- EJ Feihl. Slaughter has shown an affinity for running the floor, passing out of the post and occasionally nailing the mid-rang J ala Rabeh Al-Hussaini. We have his college coaches (from Ateneo and UV) to thank for that enviable skill-set. Of course, it would be even more awesome if he could really show a consistent low-post and back-to-the-basket game (some Marcus Douthit tutorials perhaps?). Needless to say, Slaughter will be one of the NT's premier big men for years to come.

As for the other guys on the team, the jury's out. Chris Tiu might make Gilas 2.0, but it'll be because of his experience and IQ more than anything else. It seems he has regressed as a shooter, and his height is a weakness at the 2 or 3 position. But given his leadership, he'll still probably make it.

The other guys might not be as fortunate. Nico Salva, Jake Pascual and Dave Marcelo are all at least 3 inches away from the size we need in the frontcourt, while big wingmen Cliff Hodge and Chris Ellis have shown little beyond their hops and hustle to really seize our imagination. If either or both of them had the skills of the early-2000s Danny Seigle, then they'd be shoo-ins. Sadly, that's just not the case.

As for the guards, the only way Emman Monfort, RR Garcia and Garvo Lanete will get nods for Gilas 2.0 is if they resemble Jimmy Alapag's game. At this point, though, it doesn't look like any of them can approximate the Mighty Mouse's MVP-worthy stature.

Despite all those things, however, Sinag still lived up to its name and gave Filipino hoops fans a ray of hope for the future. Like what coach Norman Black said after nailing the gold, Sinag is a very young team. The upside is just mind-boggling for these guys. Who knows? Maybe a couple of tweaks here and there -- Marcus Douthit's return (or Javale McGee's naturalization?), Japeth Aguilar finally meeting his potential, the emergence of Cebuano center Junmar Fajardo, Arwind Santos and Alex Cabagnot being allowed to don the national colors by the SMB Corporation -- might just make the future Gilas five strong enough to finally upend China and Korea in the 2013 FIBA-Asia Championships.

And then a ticket to the 2014 World Championships.

Free to dream, eh?

All thanks to Sinag-Pilipinas.

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference
PBA Standings
 1. Talk N Text 8-1 
 2. Petron Blaze 7-3 
 3. Rain or Shine 7-3 
 4. Meralco Bolts 7-4 
 5. B-Meg Llam. 6-4 
 6. Barako Bull 5-5 
 7. Ginebra Kings 5-5 
 8. Powerade T. 3-7 
 9. Alaska Aces 3-8 
 10. Shopinas.com C. 0-11 


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


CSKA Moscow jumps to 6-0, books ticket for Euroleague Top 16 - by Eurobasket News
CSKA - Zalgiris 95-82

CSKA Moscow is the first team who booked a ticket for the Euroleague Top 16. The Russian powerhouse handed 95-82 loss to Zalgiris jumping to 6-0 record in Group A. Of course, they stay alone on top of this pool. On the other side, Zalgiris closes the standings with 1-5. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) led the hosts with 21 points and 7 rebounds (valuation 33). Alexey Shved had 16 points, 5 boards and 5 assists, while Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) (7 as) and Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) (6 rebs) netted 14 pts each. In Zalgiris, Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) delivered 22 points. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) stopped to 12 pts apiece. Zalgiris was 24-25 ahead after ten minutes of play, but CSKA responded with 27-20 until the halftime for 6-point lead. The hosts jumped to 56-45 at the beginning of Q3, but Zalgiris came to 73-66 for rest of the period. Mini 6-2 run brought plus 11 to CSKA again and there were 7 minutes remaining. It was too much for the guests and CSKA celebrated its sixth straight Euroleague win this season. In the next round, CSKA will meet Brose Baskets on the road, while Zalgiris wait Unicaja.

CSKA: Nenad Krstic 21+7 boards, Alexey Shved 16+5 boards+5 as, Milos Teodosic 14+7 boards, Andrey Vorontsevich 14+6 boards
Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 22, Marko Popovic 12, Tomas Delininkaitis 12

Unics shocks Montepaschi in Siena - by Eurobasket News
Montepaschi - Unics 73-79

Unics did a great job in Siena on Wednesday night. The Euroleague newcomer grabbed 73-79 road win against the Italian powerhouse Montepaschi. Thanks to this surprising victory Unics joined Montepaschi with 4-2 record in Group D and they share the second place now. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) shined with 24 points and 5 rebounds for Unics. He made 6 of 8 attempts from behind the arc. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) had double-double of 21 points and 10 rebs, while Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) netted 12 pts. For the hosts, Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) delivered 22 points. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) had 13 points and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) stopped to 8. Unics exploded at the beginning of the last period making 6-18 run for 67-75 lead. There were four minutes remaining and Montepaschi was not able to reply. Quarters: 16-21, 25-20, 20-16, 12-22. Unics waits Galatasaray in the next round. Montepaschi goes to Ljubljana.

Montepaschi: Bo McCalebb 22, Rimantas Kaukenas 13, Ksistof Lavrinovic 8
Unics: Henry Domercant 24+5 boards, Vladimir Veremeenko 21+10 boards, Lynn Greer 12

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


Anadolu Efes too strong for Partizan again - by Eurobasket News
Anadolu Efes - Partizan 67-58

Third Euroleague win for Anadolu Efes this season and at the same time second victory against Partizan. The Turkish giant celebrated 67-58 in Istanbul last night. Both teams have 3-3 record now in Group C. Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) stepped up for the hosts with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) also was great scoring 16, while center Stanko Barac (217-C-86) helped with 10 points for 17 minutes on the court. In Partizan, Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) was better than the others with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) and Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) had 10 points each. Third quarter was the crucial one in this game. Before that, Partizan made 15-17 in the first ten minutes and Efes answered with 15-11 in Q2. Sasha Vujacic and his teammates jumped to 39-28 at the halfway of third period (9-0 run included). It was plus 13 for Efes with 10 minutes to go and Partizan was not able to relpy. Quarters: 15-17, 15-11, 19-8, 18-22. Anadolu Efes goes to Charleroi in the next round. Partizan waits Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Anadolu Efes: Sasha Vujacic 21+5 boards, Dusko Savanovic 16, Stanko Barac 10
Partizan: Milan Macvan 15+5 boards, Acie Law 10, Danilo Andjusic 10

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


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


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


Standings - 1A
Telemach Standings
 1. Helios 6-0 
 2. Elektra 6-1 
 3. Zlatorog 4-2 
 4. Sentjur 4-2 
 5. Geoplin Slovan 3-3 
 6. Rogaska 3-4 
 7. Polzela 2-4 
 8. Maribor Messer 2-4 
 9. Parklji 1-5 
 10. LTHcast Mercator 0-6 
Play in international cups:
 1. Krka - 
 2. Union Olimpija - 


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


Johnson's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old forward Alexander Johnson (208-F-83) put on an amazing game in the last round for SK Knights and receives a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
He had a double-double of 30 points and 18 rebounds, while his team crushed KCC Egis (#4, 10-7) with 17-point margin 87-70. SK Knights maintains the 6th position in league. SK Knights is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 8-9 record. Johnson turned to be SK Knights' top player in his first season with the team. Florida State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Johnson is league's best scorer averaging so far 29.4ppg. Johnson is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 14.1rpg) and averages solid 1.4bpg and 60.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was DeShawn Sims (203-F-88) of KCC Egis. He is American forward in his first season at KCC Egis. In the last game Sims recorded impressive double-double of 38 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as KCC Egis lost that game 70-87 to slightly lower-ranked SK Knights (#6, 8-9). KCC Egis managed to keep the same 4th spot in the standings. His team's 10-7 record is not bad at all. Sims is a newcomer at KCC Egis and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 25.0ppg (#3). He also registered 9.4 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to center Malcolm Thomas (206-C-88) of Mobis Phoebus (#7). Thomas showcased his all-around game by recording 28 points, twelve rebounds (!!!) and six assists in the last round. He was a key player of Mobis Phoebus, leading his team to a 94-75 easy win against LG Sakers (7-10). The chances of Mobis Phoebus ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 10 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Thomas could help Mobis Phoebus to bring them higher in the standings. Thomas has a great season in South Korea. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.9ppg (7th best) and rebounds with 10.3rpg (7th best). He also has 3.0bpg and FGP: 55.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Aaron Haynes (201-F-81) of LG Sakers - 28 points and 13 rebounds
5. Hee-Jung Joo (181-G-77) of SK Knights - 10 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists
6. Ho-Young Yoon (198-F-84) of Dongbu Promy - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Chang-Yong Song (192-SF-87) of Mobis Phoebus - 23 points and 5 rebounds
8. Gregory Stevenson (198-F-78) of LG Sakers - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Rodrique Benson (207-F/C-84) of Dongbu Promy - 16 points and 9 rebounds
10. Charles Rhodes (203-F/C-85) of Sonic Boom KT - 17 points and 7 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)

Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Dongbu Promy 14-3 
 2. Anyang KGC 12-5 
 3. Sonic Boom KT 12-6 
 4. KCC Egis 10-7 
 5. ET Land 9-8 
 6. SK Knights 8-9 
 7. Mobis Phoebus 7-10 
 8. LG Sakers 7-10 
 9. Samsung Th. 4-14 
 10. Daegu Orions 3-14 


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


Dalibor Bagaric leaves Valladolid for Cedevita - by Eurobasket News
As expected, Dalibor Bagaric (217-C-80, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) is no longer a member of Valladolid. Two sides agreed to terminate a deal and the player immediately joined Cedevita Zagreb. A week ago Bagaric verbally agreed terms with Cedevita. He appeared four times in Liga Endesa this season with Valladolid averaging 5 points and 3.8 rebounds. Dalibor Bagaric split last season between Dubrava and Marousi. With the Greek squad he had 12.2 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.6 apg and 1.9 bpg for 23 games in A1. He was named Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Bosmans Team -11. In 2009/10, Bagaric played for Cibona. Before that, he was a member of GMAC Bologna and Girona. Bagaric played for the Croatian NT from 1998 to 2005.

Spanoulis lifts Olympiakos to 88-81 win against Bilbao - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos - Bizkaia Bilbao 88-81

Olympiakos registered valuable 88-81 home win against Bizkaia Bilbao in Round Six of the Euroleague regular season. The Reds improved to 3-3 in Group A and increased their chance to reach the next stage. Bilbao dropped to 2-4. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket) paced the home squad to victory collecting 29 points and 6 assists (valuation 34). Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) had 18 points and 7 rebounds, while Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) helped with 13 pts and 5 rebs. Visitors got 17 points from Alex Mumbru (202-F-79). Marko Banic (205-F-84) and Janis Blums (190-G-82) scored 15 and 14 pts respectively. Olympiakos opened the game with 19-9 lead, but Bilbao came to 27-24 for rest of the first quarter. Later, Olympiakos had 45-42 at the HT and Bilbao grabbed 60-61 lead with 10:00 to go. Vassilis Spanoulis and his teammates exploded with 19-9 run for the next five resolving question about the winner. Actually, Alex Mumbru helped guests to cut the margin at 84-81, but Spanoulis immediately responded from the FT line. Quarters: 27-24, 18-18, 15-19, 28-20. In the next round, Olympiakos will meet Fenerbahce Ulker in Istanbul. Bilbao waits Nancy.

Olympiakos: Vassilis Spanoulis 29+6 as, Kyle Hines 18+7 boards, Pero Antic 13+5 boards
Bilbao: Alex Mumbru 17, Marko Banic 15, Janis Blums 14

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


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


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


Standings - LNB
LNB Standings
 1. Neuchatel 10-0 
 2. Bern 7-2 
 3. Vevey 7-3 
 4. Meyrin Geneve 6-2 
 5. BC AKA 6-3 
 6. Bernex 5-4 
 7. Nyon U23 5-4 
 8. Zurich Wildcats 5-5 
 9. Blonay Basket 3-6 
 10. Villars 3-6 
 11. Pully 2-7 
 12. Swiss Central 2-7 
 13. Acad.Fribourg 2-8 
 14. DDV Lugano 1-7 


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


Anadolu Efes too strong for Partizan again - by Eurobasket News
Anadolu Efes - Partizan 67-58

Third Euroleague win for Anadolu Efes this season and at the same time second victory against Partizan. The Turkish giant celebrated 67-58 in Istanbul last night. Both teams have 3-3 record now in Group C. Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) stepped up for the hosts with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) also was great scoring 16, while center Stanko Barac (217-C-86) helped with 10 points for 17 minutes on the court. In Partizan, Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) was better than the others with 15 points and 5 rebounds. Acie Law (190-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas A&M) and Danilo Andjusic (197-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) had 10 points each. Third quarter was the crucial one in this game. Before that, Partizan made 15-17 in the first ten minutes and Efes answered with 15-11 in Q2. Sasha Vujacic and his teammates jumped to 39-28 at the halfway of third period (9-0 run included). It was plus 13 for Efes with 10 minutes to go and Partizan was not able to relpy. Quarters: 15-17, 15-11, 19-8, 18-22. Anadolu Efes goes to Charleroi in the next round. Partizan waits Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Anadolu Efes: Sasha Vujacic 21+5 boards, Dusko Savanovic 16, Stanko Barac 10
Partizan: Milan Macvan 15+5 boards, Acie Law 10, Danilo Andjusic 10

400th Assist by Kerem Tunceri - by Orhan Suer
Anadolu Efes Istanbul captain and point guard Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) made his 400th assist in his Euro League career during the game against BC Partizan MT:S Beograd in Istanbul. Kerem became the 12th player who ever passed 400 Assist mark in Euro League. Kerem has 2 points 2 rebounds 8 assists in the game and ran his team like a maestro. Efes won the game with a great defensive play 67-58 against BC Partizan MT:S Beograd. Anadolu Efes Istanbul had their first win at home and reached to 3-3 record. Sasha Vujacic had an important role in the win with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Dusko Savanovic had 15 points with some critical baskets in the 4th quarter.

TB2L Round 10 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Seventh-ranked Vestel (5-4) made lots of trouble for top-ranked Genc Telekom (9-0) in Ankara on Wednesday. Genc Telekom managed to secure only two-point victory 81-79. However their fans expected much easier game. Nenad Delic (210-F/C-84, agency: TSS Management) fired 28 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Undefeated Genc Telekom have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-0 record. Vestel at the other side dropped to the ninth place with four games lost. Genc Telekom will face TED Istanbul (#19) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Vestel will play against Gaziantep (#4).

Rest of the games of round 10 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Final Genclik was defeated by Darussafaka in Istanbul 80-62. Gaziantep smashed Istanbul B.B. at home 75-48. Gelisim won against Akhisar Bld on the opponent's court 54-50. Balikesir unfortunately lost to Optimum TED in a home game 55-70. Istanbulspor recorded a loss to Pamukkale on the road 86-92. Baskent Genclik was crushed by Selcuk Univ. on its own court 56-82. TED Istanbul was smashed by Orman Genc in Ankara 88-67. Pertevniyal destroyed Tire Gucu at home 71-50. Maliye Milli managed to outperform Usak on the opponent's court 92-89.
The best stats of 10th round was 24 points and 7 rebounds by Olumuyiwa Famutimi of Optimum TED.

Darussafaka - Final Genclik 80-62

There was a minor upset in Istanbul where one of their biggest challengers Final Genclik (6-3) was defeated by eighth ranked Darussafaka (6-3) 80-62 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Darussafaka. Final Genclik was better in second period 15-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Darussafaka made 21-of-23 free shots (91.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Final Genclik turnovers. American guard Jawan Carter (180-87, college: Delaware, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) fired 28 points (made all of his eight free throws) for the winners. Guard Can Korkmaz (187-92, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 10 points and 7 assists (made all of his seven free throws). American power forward Cyrus Tate (203-85, college: Iowa, agency: Edge Sports) produced 17 points and 6 rebounds and forward Orcun Okkali (201-87) added 13 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Darussafaka have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Final Genclik. Darussafaka will face Maliye Milli (#7) in the next round. Final Genclik will play against Orman Genc in Ankara.
Top scorers:
Final Genclik: C.Tate 17+6reb, U.Yilmaz 14+3reb, O.Okkali 13+8reb+1ast, E.Ilter 7+6reb+3ast, O.Kaan Goegus 4+1reb, O.Aksoy 3
Darussafaka: J.Carter 28+3reb, B.Selen 10+4reb, C.Korkmaz 10+2reb+7ast, G.Sunter 8+3reb+1ast, T.Gedikli 8+1reb, Y.Sonsirma 4+2reb+2ast
gschID: 148588


Gaziantep - Istanbul B.B. 75-48

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked Gaziantep (6-3) smashed at home 12th ranked Istanbul B.B. (4-5) 75-48 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 14-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-48. Guard Erden Eryuz (188-80) fired 5 points and 13 assists for the winners. Guard Serhat Ugur (192-85) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds. Serbian power forward Marko Kolaric (213-84, college: Chaminade) produced 4 points and 12 rebounds and guard Sezgin Eris (185-85) added 9 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Gaziantep have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Istanbul B.B. at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with five games lost. Gaziantep will face Vestel (#10) in Manisa in the next round where they are favorite. Istanbul B.B. will play at home against Baskent Genclik in Ankara.
Top scorers:
Istanbul B.B.: R.Dogrusoez 9+1reb+3ast, S.Eris 9+3reb+2ast, E.Hacioglu 7+3reb, E.Ismailoglu 5+4reb+1ast, U.Yanar 5, S.Derinbay 5+6reb+1ast
Gaziantep: S.Ugur 16+5reb, A.Waller 14+6reb+1ast, S.Ugrasan 11+3reb, G.Karamahmut 9+2reb+1ast, A.Kaplan 6+5reb+1ast, U.Durmus 6+11reb
gschID: 148589


Akhisar Bld - Gelisim 50-54

There was an upset when much higher ranked Akhisar Bld (7-2) was defeated at home by fifteenth ranked Gelisim (3-6) 54-50 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 29-21 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Akhisar Bld was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Center Kaan Isbilen (205-83) fired 10 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American forward De Vaughn Washington (202-89, college: Ohio, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) chipped in 10 points and 8 rebounds. American forward Tyrone Nelson (206-85, college: N.Mexico St.) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Mert Eken (193-87) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. Akhisar Bld's coach Zafer Aktas rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Gelisim moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Balikesir and Pertevniyal. Akhisar Bld at the other side keeps the second position with two games lost. Gelisim will face Balikesir (#14) at home in the next round. Akhisar Bld will play against Tire Gucu (#20).
Top scorers:
Akhisar Bld: T.Nelson 10+10reb+4ast, M.Eken 10+6reb+2ast, O.Bugra Dag 9+6reb, L.Demirci 6+1reb+1ast, G.Esmer 6+6reb, E.Yenice 3+1reb
Gelisim: D.Vaughn Washington 10+8reb, K.Isbilen 10+8reb+1ast, E.Ozpulat 9+4reb, O.Onver 7+4reb, S.Gursu 7+6reb+1ast, O.Akis 7+6reb+1ast
gschID: 148590


Balikesir - Optimum TED 55-70

Very predictable result when fourth ranked Optimum TED (7-2) beat on the road 13th ranked Balikesir (3-6) 70-55 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Optimum TED led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Optimum TED had a 30-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Nigerian-Canadian swingman Olumuyiwa Famutimi (198-84, college: Arkansas) fired 24 points and 7 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winners. Forward Cihad Sahin (203-83) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. American forward Charles Jackson (203-87, college: Hawaii-Pacific, agency: Court Side) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and guard Selaattin Akyol (180-86) added 9 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Balikesir's coach Ismail Dogrutekin rotated eleven players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Optimum TED have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Akhisar Bld. Newly promoted Balikesir keeps the thirteenth position with six games lost. Optimum TED will face Usak (#12) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Balikesir will play against Gelisim in Izmir and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Balikesir: C.Jackson 22+10reb+1ast, S.Akyol 9+5reb+3ast, Y.Akcay 7+2reb+2ast, A.Uruk 7+3reb+2ast, G.Tokatli 4+1reb, D.Tokmak 3+1reb
Optimum TED: O.Famutimi 24+7reb+1ast, C.Sahin 13+11reb+3ast, I.Turel 8+4ast, N.Ozbakir 6+3reb, B.Erol 6+1reb, C.Amasyali 5+2ast
gschID: 148584


Pamukkale - Istanbulspor 92-86

Not a big story in a game when 16th ranked Istanbulspor (2-7) was defeated on the road by sixth ranked Pamukkale (6-3) 92-86 on Wednesday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 25-16. But Istanbulspor won third quarter 22-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Istanbulspor was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Matthew Pilgrim (203-87, college: Oklahoma St., agency: KMG Sports Management) fired a double-double by scoring 24 points and 14 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Guard Goekhan Senol (183-84) chipped in 22 points and 7 assists. Pamukkale's coach Firat Eser used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guard Admir Kan (185-83) produced 13 points and 8 assists and guard Onur Sonsirma (190-85) added 17 points respectively for lost side. Four Pamukkale and five Istanbulspor players scored in double figures. Pamukkale have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Istanbulspor at the other side keeps the sixteenth position with seven games lost. Pamukkale will face Selcuk Universitesi (#9) in Konya in the next round where they are favorite. Istanbulspor will play at home against Pertevniyal (#15) in Istanbul and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Istanbulspor: O.Sonsirma 17+2reb+3ast, O.Surucu 16+3reb, T.Barnies 15+6reb+1ast, A.Kan 13+2reb+8ast, S.Gunes 12+6reb, G.Naldoeven 11+5reb
Pamukkale: M.Pilgrim 24+14reb+1ast, G.Senol 22+3reb+7ast, B.Sasmaz 12+1reb+4ast, F.Celebioglu 11+2reb+4ast, I.Esmeray 9+2reb, E.Gul 6+5reb
gschID: 148585


Baskent Genclik - Selcuk Univ. 56-82

Everything went according to plan in Ankara where tenth ranked Selcuk Universitesi (5-4) outleveled 14th ranked Baskent Genclik (2-7) 82-56 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Selcuk Universitesi. Baskent Genclik was better in fourth quarter 22-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Selcuk Universitesi dominated on the defensive end, holding Baskent Genclik to just 5 points in third quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Baskent Genclik's 30 and made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Baskent Genclik 41-29 including 31 on the defensive glass. Forward Erdem Turetken (199-79, agency: Interperformances) fired 20 points for the winners. American guard Henry Antwan Dobie (183-78, college: LIU Brooklyn) chipped in 12 points, 7 assists and 5 steals. American center Marquise Gray (206-86, college: Michigan St.) produced 22 points and 8 rebounds and forward Recai Ozturk (198-82) added 8 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Selcuk Universitesi moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Vestel. Baskent Genclik at the other side dropped to the sixteenth position with seven games lost. Selcuk Universitesi will face higher ranked Pamukkale (#6) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Baskent Genclik will play against Istanbul B.B. (#11).
Top scorers:
Baskent Genclik: M.Gray 22+8reb+1ast, R.Ozturk 8+3reb+2ast, B.Demirci 5+1ast, T.Orge 4+4reb+1ast, M.Sevda 4+1reb+2ast, E.Ozseven 4+2reb
Selcuk Univ.: E.Turetken 20+4reb+2ast, H.Antwan Dobie 12+4reb+7ast, M.Okay 12+2reb, O.Aydin 8+3reb, M.Ufuk Kacar 8+5ast, H.Berk Uner 8+3reb
gschID: 148586


Orman Genc - TED Istanbul 88-67

There was a minor upset in Ankara where 18th ranked TED Istanbul (2-7) was crushed by twentiethth ranked Orman Genc (2-7) 88-67 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Orman Genc. TED Istanbul was better in third quarter 20-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Orman Genc forced 20 TED Istanbul turnovers. They shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 54.5 percentage. American guard Mikhail Torrance (196-88, college: Alabama) fired 28 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Forward Arif Erhan Kocamis (196-86, agency: 1x1 Sports) chipped in 7 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Forward Sercan Tulek (201-88) produced 19 points and 8 rebounds and American forward Tony Davis (206-88, college: Newberry) added 15 points and 10 rebounds respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Orman Genc moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated TED Istanbul. TED Istanbul lost fifth consecutive game. Orman Genc will face higher ranked Final Genclik (#8) in Bursa in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
TED Istanbul: S.Tulek 19+8reb+2ast, T.Davis 15+10reb, A.Demirhan 8+3reb+3ast, C.Uzun 7+2reb, M.Baras 7+2reb+2ast, D.Deniz Yigit 5+3reb+1ast
Orman Genc: M.Torrance 28+3reb, M.Alemdar 12+3reb+3ast, U.Aksoy 10+3reb+1ast, T.Yener 9+1ast, A.Erhan Kocamis 7+6reb+6ast, H.Karabulut 7+7reb+1ast
gschID: 148587


Pertevniyal - Tire Gucu 71-50

Everything could happen in Istanbul at the game between two tied teams. Both nineteenth ranked Pertevniyal and 17th ranked Tire Gucu had identical 2-6 record. This time Pertevniyal used a home court advantage and smashed the opponent from 71-50 on Wednesday night. The game without a history. Pertevniyal led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Tire Gucu to just 7 points in fourth quarter. Tire Gucu was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Point guard Soykan Yikilmaz (185-92) fired 21 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Center Ramazan Tekin (212-93) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 14 rebounds. Four Pertevniyal players scored in double figures. Power forward Tyrus Boswell (202-78, college: Ky Wesleyan, agency: EM-PA) produced 10 points and 9 rebounds and guard Cemal Bayraktar (184-82, agency: 1x1 Sports) added 11 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Pertevniyal (3-6) moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Balikesir and Gelisim. Tire Gucu lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom position with seven games lost. Pertevniyal's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Istanbul to the arena Istanbulspor.
Top scorers:
Tire Gucu: C.Bayraktar 11+2reb+2ast, T.Boswell 10+9reb+2ast, A.Cetinkaya 8+5reb, U.Oguz 6+3reb+1ast, R.Hepsarsar 5+3reb, O.Yildirim 4+4reb
Pertevniyal: S.Yikilmaz 21+5reb+6ast, R.Tekin 13+14reb, B.Can 12+8reb+1ast, A.Baran 12+2reb, C.Osman 5+3reb+1ast, O.Sancakli 3+2ast
gschID: 148581


Genc Telekom - Vestel 81-79 OT

Seventh-ranked Vestel (5-4) made lots of trouble for top-ranked Genc Telekom (9-0) in Ankara on Wednesday. Genc Telekom managed to secure only two-point victory 81-79. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 24-19 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 2-point victory in overtime. Genc Telekom dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Vestel's 28. Croatian power forward Nenad Delic (210-84, agency: TSS Management) fired 28 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Forward Sahin Ekmen (203-89) chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds. Forward Hadi Ozdemir (203-83) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and center Umut Yenice (209-79, agency: EM-PA) added 15 points respectively for lost side. Four Vestel players scored in double figures. Genc Telekom have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 9-0 record. Vestel at the other side dropped to the ninth place with four games lost. Genc Telekom will face TED Istanbul (#19) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Vestel will play against Gaziantep (#4).
Top scorers:
Vestel: H.Ozdemir 20+12reb, U.Yenice 15+2reb+2ast, S.Topcu 13+3reb+3ast, H.Erol 10+5reb+1ast, J.Carter 8+3reb+2ast, A.Ozdemir 7+7reb
Genc Telekom: N.Delic 28+9reb+1ast, I.Goekalp 19+3reb+3ast, S.Ekmen 18+9reb+2ast, H.Avci 5+2reb, R.Rizvanoglu 4+6reb+8ast, M.Goerur 3+2reb
gschID: 148582


Usak - Maliye Milli 89-92

Rather expected game when 11th ranked Usak (4-5) was edged at home by ninth ranked Maliye Milli (6-3) 92-89 on Wednesday. Usak was trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 19-12 charge of Maliye Milli, which allowed them to win the game. They made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Strangely Usak outrebounded Maliye Milli 41-29 including 27 on the defensive glass. Guard Caner Erdeniz (188-87) fired 22 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. The former international center Umit Turkoglu (211-81, agency: 1x1 Sports) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Nikolay Pastal (202-83) produced a double-double by scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds and American guard Dijuan Harris (175-86, college: Charlotte, agency: ARN Sports and Entertainment) added 19 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Maliye Milli moved-up to fourth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Usak lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh position with five games lost. Maliye Milli will face Darussafaka (#5) in Istanbul in the next round. Usak will play on the road against the league's second-placed Optimum TED (#2) in Ankara.
Top scorers:
Usak: N.Pastal 26+11reb+1ast, D.Harris 19+5reb+4ast, A.Turgut 16+4reb, C.Karabulut 9+8reb+3ast, E.Algin 8+1ast, M.Erol 6+5reb+5ast
Maliye Milli: C.Erdeniz 22+2reb+3ast, U.Turkoglu 20+6reb, F.Celik 9+2reb, K.Tutuncu 9+3reb+4ast, M.Kabakci 7+3reb+1ast, S.Mustafa Karamanlier 7+3reb
gschID: 148583




Olumuyiwa Famutimi gets MVP of the Week award for TB2L - by Eurobasket News
Nigerian-Canadian swingman Olumuyiwa Famutimi (198-F/G-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Optimum TED and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com TB2L Player of the Week award for round 10.
The 27-year old swingman had the game-high 24 points adding seven rebounds for Optimum TED in his team's victory, helping them to beat Balikesir (#14, 3-6) 70-55. Optimum TED is placed at 2nd position in Turkish TB2L. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Optimum TED will need more victories to improve their 7-2 record. In the team's last game Famutimi had a remarkable 80.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Optimum TED's top player in his first season with the team. Olumuyiwa Famutimi averages this season 13.3ppg and 7.4rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old American forward Matthew Pilgrim (203-F-87, agency: KMG Sports Management) of Pamukkale. Pilgrim impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 24 points and 14 rebounds. It was enough for Pamukkale to edge the lower-ranked Istanbulspor (#17, 2-7) by 6 points 92-86. Pamukkale's 6th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-3 record is not bad and everything may still change. Pilgrim is a newcomer at Pamukkale and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.4ppg (#3). He also registered 12.0 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Charles Jackson (203-F-87, agency: Court Side) of Balikesir (#14). Jackson scored 22 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Jackson's great performance Balikesir lost 55-70 to the higher-ranked Optimum TED (#2, 7-2). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Balikesir not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 6 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Jackson could try to bring Balikesir's a little bit higher in the standings. Jackson has individually a great season in Turkey. After only 8 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.0ppg (6th best) and rebounds with 10.5rpg (5th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Nenad Delic (210-F/C-84) of Genc Telekom - 28 points and 9 rebounds
5. Nikolay Pastal (202-F-83) of Usak - 26 points and 11 rebounds
6. Tony Davis (206-F-88) of TED Istanbul - 15 points and 10 rebounds
7. Mikhail Torrance (196-G-88) of Orman Genc - 28 points and 3 rebounds
8. Cihad Sahin (203-F-83) of Optimum TED - 13 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Hadi Ozdemir (203-F-83) of Vestel - 20 points and 12 rebounds
10. Jawan Carter (180-G-87) of Darussafaka - 28 points and 3 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)

Standings - TB2L
TB2L Standings
 1. Genc Telekom 9-0 
 2. Optimum TED 7-2 
 3. Akhisar Bld 7-2 
 4. Gaziantep 6-3 
 5. Darussafaka 6-3 
 6. Pamukkale 6-3 
 7. Maliye Milli 6-3 
 8. Final Genclik 6-3 
 9. Selcuk Univ. 5-4 
 10. Vestel 5-4 
 11. Istanbul B.B. 4-5 
 12. Usak 4-5 
 13. Gelisim 3-6 
 14. Balikesir 3-6 
 15. Pertevniyal 3-6 
 16. Baskent Genclik 2-7 
 17. Istanbulspor 2-7 
 18. Orman Genc 2-7 
 19. TED Istanbul 2-7 
 20. Tire Gucu 2-7 


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


Duncans new shoe set for Black Friday offering - by David Edole
Want another reason to set a mental note for another present to think about buying on Black Friday?

Forget about snuggies for your mother-in-law or that new HD television set at Best Buy that youll have to stay up all night to acquire.

Tim Duncan (208-C/F-76, college: Wake Forest) s new black Foamposite Max shoes will be released on Friday. His silver ones earned rave reviews among the pumps cognescenti when they were released back in September. The new black ones are expected to be just as stylish.

For more information on Duncans shoe release, check out the perimeters at getsetnyc.com.

And its for a good cause, Spurs Nation. Duncans bank account needs a boost, considering hes losing about $1.638 million per paycheck. Maybe selling a few extra shoes will help cut into that negative cashflow a little.

by Tim Griffin

*****************************************************
  UGANDA   


Lugogo Evokes Memories of a 'Zephar' - by Eurobasket News
Just as the heavens started holding up for basketball playoffs to go ahead unhindered, the anger about the continued closure of Lugogo Indoor Stadium is a thing of the past.

Last Friday, fury filled the outdoor YMCA court over Lugogo grew as soon as the Game One of Warriors-UCU was abandoned. Many outdoor sports have been affected by this prolonged rainy season. Rage is bound to return when another game faces the same fate. Local basketball body Fuba was so lucky with the weather last year. Lightning never strikes the same spot twice. Two years ago, a dilapidated Lugogo was closed to undergo renovation at a widely reported Shs1.7bn.

Today, Lugogo, whose repair costs were met by MTN, through National Council of Sports (NCS), is closed with no reopening in sight. It can easily be equated to a car with a fresh coat of paint and an old engine.

The roof looks good, the entrance is colourful, the compound green and the lavatories more reliable than before. The beautiful 'Zephar' is parked in the corner, not fit enough for a Friday night drive. A concrete surface and unrecognisable work is nothing to be pleased with. Following a near 12-month construction, it was briefly opened for last year's seven-game final series.


The surface looked horrible, undulating to say the least. Prior to the third game between DMark Power and Warriors, it was closed again to sort out the shortfalls in the initial overhaul. YMCA, an eternal partner, offered an escape route.Another 12 months on and it remains closed with only registration for the marathon taking place in its vicinity. No one offers any kind of explanation. NCS general secretary Jasper Aligawesa has often pushed the reopening from August to September to October to no date in particular.

It's becoming an illusion. Rumour has it that the latest reason is the unavailability of funds to fly in Dutch engineers to fix the floor. Something is definitely not right with the way the Lugogo issue has been handled. Companies want their projects to be done with perfection and a sports venue should be no exception. Cleanliness is wanted but I guess its time Fuba find the guts to build a permanent home.

For now, Aligawesa will find himself definitely taking the blame but it's mainly because not even half the truth can be found.
Courtesy of: The Monitor

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


Ryan Wright leaves Cherkasy - by Eurobasket News
Cherkasy parted ways with Ryan Wright (206-C/F-87, college: Oklahoma). The sides have reached mutual agreement on terms of contract termination. The Canadian centre joined the team at the start of the season. He appeared in 12 Superleague games averaging 6.1 points and 4.9 rebounds. Last season Ryan Wright played for Sichuan in Chinese NBL. His stats read 19.9 points, 13.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists per appearance. Ryan Wright received Asia-Basket.com All-Chinese NBL Honourable Mention. He also had stints in Venezuela and Turkey. Cherkasy have already started the search for a new centre. The name may be announced soon.

Oleksiy Pecherov gets MVP of the Week award for Superleague - by Eurobasket News
Former international center Oleksiy Pecherov (213-C-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Azovmash and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 26-year old center had a double-double of 27 points and twelve rebounds, while his team beat DniproAzot (#12, 2-11) 93-85. Azovmash is placed at 2nd position in Superleague. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Azovmash will need more victories to improve their 9-3 record. In the team's last game Pecherov had a remarkable 72.7% from 2-point range. He turned to be Azovmash's top player in his first season with the team. Pecherov has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (5th best: 8.2rpg) and averages solid 1.1bpg,56.6% FGP and 40.8% from behind 3-point line.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 27-year old American swingman Kevin Tiggs (196-G/F-84) of Hoverla. Tiggs impressed basketball fans with 26 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists. It was enough for Hoverla to edge the lower-ranked Halychyna (#13, 2-11) by 5 points 80-75. This victory allowed Hoverla to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 8-5 record is not bad and everything may still change. Tiggs is a newcomer at Hoverla and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Vincentian Shawn King (208-C-82) of BC Odessa (#7). King showcased his all-around game by recording 22 points, eight rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of BC Odessa, leading his team to a 102-99 win against slightly lower-ranked Ferro-ZNTU (#9, 6-7). BC Odessa needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 8 victories and 5 lost games. King has a great season in Ukraine. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.8ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 10.3rpg (#1 in league). He also has 2.6bpg and FGP: 61.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84) of BC Kyiv - 22 points and 10 rebounds
5. Willie Deane (188-PG-80) of BC Odessa - 29 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84) of Halychyna - 20 points, 16 rebounds and 3 assists
7. R.T. Guinn (208-C-81) of Ferro-ZNTU - 22 points and 11 rebounds
8. Eric Coleman (200-C-85) of Hoverla - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Charles Thomas (203-F-86) of Dnipro - 30 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84) of BC Kyiv - 17 points and 10 rebounds

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

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


Cherkasy bring in Trent Plaisted - by Eurobasket News
Cherkasy bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Trent Plaisted (211-F/C-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: BYU). The centre is meant to replace Ryan Wright (206-C/F-87, college: Oklahoma) who left the team. Trent Plaisted started the previous season in Croatia. He played for Cedevita Zagreb. His stats read 5.2 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. In EuroCup the centre notched 9.1 points and 3.9 rebounds. In February Trent Plaisted moved to Zalgiris Kaunas. His stats read 5.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.0 assist per LKL game. Trent Plaisted posted 6.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game in Euroleague. In Baltic League the player averaged 4.5 points and 4.0 rebounds. Trent Plaisted also played for Zadar and Angelico Biella.

DniproAzot confirm Michael Dunigan, add Leonid Stefanishin - by Eurobasket News
DniproAzot confirmed the signing of Michael Dunigan (208-C-89, agency: N.E.T., college: Oregon). The centre started the season in Casale Monferrato. He tallied 2.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game in SeriaA. Last season Michael Dunigan spent in Estonia. He played for Kalev/Cramo. The centre posted 11.1 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game in EKML. In Baltic League Michael Dunigan delivered 12.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.9 blocks. The player also notched 10.3 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game in VTB League. Eurobasket.com named Michael Dunigan into Baltic League All-Imports Team. He was also trumped All-Estonian League Centre of the Year.
The team also agreed on terms of contract with Leonid Stefanishin (199-F-85). The forward started the season with Budivelnyk. He averaged 1.2 rebounds per game. Last season Leonid Stefanishin posted 1.3 points per game in EuroCup with Budivelnyk. In Superleague his stats read 3.0 points and 1.2 rebounds per appearance. He was the member of Ukrainian U16, U20, U21 and University National Teams.

*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


Nilsen Meets: Carlos Fernandez - by Paul Nilsen
Its been the best ever start to a BBL season for the new look Worcester Wolves and Carlos Fernandez (197-F-87, college: IlIinois Tech).

The Spaniard has been an integral part of Paul James team which is on quite a roll right now and still unbeaten in the BBL Championship.

Its a situation which means Fernandez is absolutely thrilled with his first few months of British Basketball action.

Everything has been great so far he explains.

We have a great group of guys and great chemistry off the court too which translates into the games. I didnt get too much playing time during the last two years, so now Im really enjoying being an important part of the team.

I knew it was going to take me a few games to get my full confidence back. But, I feel like I am helping the team and getting better with every game.

Meanwhile off the court, there is nothing I can complain about. I love Worcester as a city and I love the Wolves fans!

And, as if to emphasise the fact he genuinely loves life in Worcester he adds,

Im even starting to get used to the weather!

Its a big difference from home for the unassuming Fernandez who like most Spanish kids, found his way into the sport at an early age and was pushed hard by his folks to make it as a pro.

Im from Leon and my family is the most important thing I have in the world. My parents have always been loving but also demanding. They have always supported me in whatever I decided to do.

Im just a regular 24-year-old guy that really enjoys playing basketball. I started playing at school when I was eight and year after year, basketball became more and more important in my life.

Basketball has given me not only great moments, but also a lot of friends and important values in life.

Fernandez only had a fleeting experience at College, he attended Illinois Tech having started studying at the University of Leon.

It was a great opportunity for me. Moving overseas and living in a city like Chicago when I was only 20 toughened me up as a person.

Basketball-wise, I got to learn a different style of play, which helped me to grow up as a player.

On his return to Spain, he was then handed the chance to play in the second tier of Spanish basketball, a league still widely accepted as being better than most top flight leagues elsewhere in Europe.

While it was a great grounding at the start of his life as a pro-player, Fernandez couldnt resist answering the call from Wolves when it arrived.

He said, Right after college, LEB Gold was my first professional basketball experience. It is a really tough league, full of very experienced players.

Having the chance of playing with some of them was great for me. I matured as a player and it made me understand the game a little bit better.

At one point during last season I felt like a needed a change. Although being involved in a top competition like LEB Gold was great, I wasnt getting as much playing time as I wanted. I felt like this was stopping my progression as a player.

Thats when I heard from the Wolves.

Coach James showed a lot of interest and I felt like it was the right thing to do. I wanted to feel important in a team and enjoy playing basketball again. The opportunity to take my Masters degree was also decisive.

My studies have always been an important part in my life. Between basketball and classes, I have never have too much free time!

Since leaving his homeland and life in LEB Gold, Fernandez has watched some of his friends make it to the European big league.

I am not friends with Gasol or Calderon but I do have some friends playing in ACB (the top Spanish League)!

Some of my former team-mates took the big step to what is considered the second best league in the world. Now they tell me how it is to play among great players like Rudy Fernandez or Juan Carlos Navarro in front of 15,000 fans.

There has never been a better time to be a Spanish athlete, Spanish sports fan or in the case of Fernandez, both.

These are heady days for Spanish sport and as I desperately try to convince him of how boring winning everything in basketball and football must be, he refuses to take the bait.

Ha, ha, not a bit! laughs the forward.

We have to love and enjoy the Golden Age of Spanish sports that we are living. And, its not only the national teams winning everything in basketball and football.

Sensing an opportunity to hammer home the point and perhaps educate me that Spain are seemingly out for world sporting dominance, he gleefully adds,

It is also Rafa Nadal winning tennis tournaments all around the world, Pau Gasol winning NBA Championships for the Lakers, Alberto Contador dominating in cycling, Fernando Alonso in F1 racing, and so on.

I think this is indicative of how important sport is in Spanish society.

While Fernandez winning some silverware this season in Worcester isnt likely to add his name to such an A-list of Spanish sporting accomplishments, it would still be celebrated with the same kind of passion and vigour by Wolves fans and make one proud family from Leon joyously happy.


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


Chris Jeffries scored 92.6% from the field - by Hector Lopez
Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) scored 92.6% of his shots leading Malvin to beat Cader 93-79 for the Uruguayan League. Jeffries netted 1/1 for the three points line and 12/11 for two points shots. Also for Malvin Anthony Myles (208-F/C-82, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Xavier) netted 15 points and grabbed 6 rebounds, while Reque Newsome (204-C-81, college: S.Indiana) scored 11 points with 9 rebounds. For Cader Willard Crews (203-F-88, college: Bowie St.) scored 21 points with 8 rebounds and Terry Evans (196-F-86, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) added 11 points and 4 rebounds.

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




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

Women News

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


Gorizont grabs valuable win in Moscow - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo Moscow - Gorizont 67-73

Great win for Gorizont in Round Four of the EuroCup regular season. The Belarusian squad outplayed Dynamo in Moscow 67-73 for 2-3 record in Group A. At the same time, Dynamo dropped to 2-2. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) led Gorizont with 22 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Viktoriya Hasper (193-C-88) and Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) added 17 and 16 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Svetlana Maksimenko (183-PF-82, agency: LBM Management) had 15 points and 6 rebs. Anna Leshovceva (182-PF-87) and Elena Kharchenko (194-C-83, agency: LBM Management) (7 rebs) had 14 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 14-22, 24-16, 14-20, 15-15. In the next round, Gorizont will host Botas. Dynamo will meet Lobos Quinta on the road.

Dynamo Moscow: Svetlana Maksimenko 15+6 boards, Anna Leshovceva 14, Elena Kharchenko 12+7 boards
Gorizont: Tatyana Troina 22+9 boards+5 as, Viktoriya Hasper 17, Natalia Anufryienka 16

*****************************************************
  BELGIUM - Women  


Arras destroys Sint Kateline, 73-37 - by Eurobasket News
Arras - Sint Kateline 73-37

Arras jumped to 3-1 record in Group E of the EuroCup regular season. They blasted Sint Kateline at home and most probably already booked a spot for the next stage. On the other side, Sint Kateline slipped to 1-3 record in this pool. Nadezhda Grishaeva (195-PF-89) had double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) scored 17 points and Joyce Cousseins-Smith (165-PG-88) had 9 pts. In Sint Kateline, Sara Leemans (178-SF-88) was the leading scorer with just 9 points (5 rebs). Miete Celus (175-G-91) had one less. Quarters: 16-10, 23-8, 14-2, 20-17. Arras goes to Denmark in the next round, where they will meet SISU. Sint Kateline will host Russian Chevakata.

Arras: Nadezhda Grishaeva 18+12 boards, Gabriela Marginean 17, Joyce Cousseins-Smith 9
Sint Kateline: Sara Leemans 9+5 boards, Miete Celus 8

*****************************************************
  BULGARIA - Women  


Standings - Women
NBL Standings
 1. Dunav 8806 7-0 
 2. Beroe 07 5-1 
 3. Neftochimic 4-2 
 4. Levski 3-4 
 5. Montana 2003 2-4 
 6. Rilski Sportist 2-5 
 7. Slavia 0-7 


*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Four teams still unbeaten (A2 League) - by Zeljko Zule
Pescenica Zitnjak, Gospic II, Tresnjevka 2009 and Ragusa all remained unbeaten in A2 League with wins over the weekend.
West - Round 4:
Jabuka-Otocac 37-63 (Pevec 5, Basic 7, Cizic 16, Vuckovic, Kovacic 2, Milosevic 5, Mahmic 2 - Bizanovic 4, V.Delac 15, Gauric 19, I.Delac 3, Markovic 2, Stilinovic 12, Ladisic 8)
Rijecanka-Radost 62-43 (Marosevic 16, Grce 9, Polic 18, Grkovic 3, Slavica 16 - Tkalec 4, Hlebec 4, Balog 18, Smitran 2, Kucek 9, Zivkovic 2)
Pescenica Zitnjak-Vindi 68-25 (Bilbija 11, Valjevac 6, Pintaric 11, Grudic 2, Badalic 16, Lesnjak 4, Mihaljevic 2, Lisica 3, Belosevic 2, Mlinar 4, Dumbovic 7 - Snidaric 18, Karabegovic 5, Roskaric 2)
Gospic II bye
Standings: Pescenica Zitanjak 3-0, Gospic II 3-0, Rijecanka 2-1, Radost 2-2, Otocac 1-2, Vindi 1-3, Jabuka 0-4.
North-East - Round 4:
Brod-Pozega 55-71 (Pehar 17, Stojsavljevic 10, Pracuk 9, Katavic, Alar 11, Cipar 8 - M.Lovric 19, Zanic 8, Budim 10, K.Soldo 21, Mihelic 13)
Tresnjevka 2009-Podravac 63-60 (Lelas 2, Slosnjak 13, Ignjatic 5, Bacic 9, Racki 6, Bura 13, Kotur 4, Mlinaric 11 - Drljanovcan 15, Di.Bukovcan 7, Golubic 2, Krizic 5, E.Simunic 8, P.Simunic 13, Da.Bukovcan 10)
Novi Zagreb II-Mursa postoponed, Brod na Savi bye.
Standings: Tresnjevka 2009 3-0, Pozega 3-1, Mursa 2-1, Podravac 2-2, Novi Zagreb II 1-1, Brod 0-3, Brod na Savi 0-3.
South - Round 3:
Salona-Ragusa 52-56 (D.Fredotovic 16, Z.Fredotovic 12, Gabela 2, Plazibat 8, Brdar 10, Lucin 4 - Petrovic 10, Babun 16, Tosic 8, Tomicic 8, Ercegovic 14)
Split-Vodice 73-41 (Mestrovic 10, Goles 11, Bogdanovic 10, Babic 7, Biocic 9, Roje 17, Krajnovic 3 - Silov 16, Mihaljevic 7, Juricevic-Grgin 2, Krizanac 16)
Standings: Ragusa 3-0, Split 2-1, Salona 1-2, Vodice 0-3.

*****************************************************
  EUROCUP - Women  


Round 4: Wednesday's games - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

Dynamo Moscow - Gorizont 67-73
Great win for Gorizont in Round Four of the EuroCup regular season. The Belarusian squad outplayed Dynamo in Moscow 67-73 for 2-3 record in Group A. At the same time, Dynamo dropped to 2-2. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) led Gorizont with 22 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Viktoriya Hasper (193-C-88) and Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) added 17 and 16 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Svetlana Maksimenko (183-PF-82, agency: LBM Management) had 15 points and 6 rebs. Anna Leshovceva (182-PF-87) and Elena Kharchenko (194-C-83, agency: LBM Management) (7 rebs) had 14 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 14-22, 24-16, 14-20, 15-15. In the next round, Gorizont will host Botas. Dynamo will meet Lobos Quinta on the road.

Dynamo Moscow: Svetlana Maksimenko 15+6 boards, Anna Leshovceva 14, Elena Kharchenko 12+7 boards
Gorizont: Tatyana Troina 22+9 boards+5 as, Viktoriya Hasper 17, Natalia Anufryienka 16


GROUP C

Nantes - AD Vagos 66-54
Nantes registered third victory in EuroCup regular season. The French squad handed 66-54 loss to AD Vagos for 3-1 record in Group C (1st place). On the other side, the Portuguese team stays winless after four games. Doriane Tahane (191-C-89) led the hosts with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Johanne Gomis (178-SG-85) scored 14 points, while Lenae Williams (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: De Paul) (8 rebs, 6 as) and Caroline Aubert (168-PG-80, college: Colorado) (6 rebs, 7 as) had 10 points each. In AD Vagos, Flavia Santos (187-C-82) collected 19 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Lilian Goncalves (186-F-79) with 12 pts. Quarters: 25-13, 15-15, 17-16, 9-10. In the next round, Nantes will meet Dexia Namur on the road. AD Vagos waits Optimum TED.

Nantes: Doriane Tahane 18+6 boards, Johanne Gomis 14, Lenae Williams 10+8 boards+6 as, Caroline Aubert 10+6 boards+7 as
AD Vagos: Flavia Santos 19+7 boards, Lilian Goncalves 12


GROUP D

Union Hainaut - Lemminkainen 79-64
Union Hainaut secured a ticket for the second stage of EuroCup. The French team outplayed Lemminkainen on Wednesday night 79-64 for perfect 4-0 record in Group D. On the other side, Lithuanians dropped to 0-4. Emilie Silbande (178-SG-81) came up with 24 points for the winners. Amanda Houts (168-PG-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) scored 18, while Petra Stampalija (189-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 17 pts, 11 rebs and 8 assists. In Lemminkainen, Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) had double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Rita Milieskiene (175-PG-78) and Gabriele Gutkauskaite (172-PG-90) scored 12 and 11 points respectively. Quarters: 20-17, 20-12, 15-14, 24-21. Union Hainaut goes to Austria in the next round. Lemminkainen waits Gran Canaria.

Union Hainaut: Emilie Silbande 24, Amanda Houts 18, Petra Stampalija 17+11 boards+8 as
Lemminkainen: Monika Grigalauskyte 14+15 boards, Rita Milieskiene 12, Gabriele Gutkauskaite 11


GROUP E

Arras - Sint Kateline 73-37
Arras jumped to 3-1 record in Group E of the EuroCup regular season. They blasted Sint Kateline at home and most probably already booked a spot for the next stage. On the other side, Sint Kateline slipped to 1-3 record in this pool. Nadezhda Grishaeva (195-PF-89) had double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) scored 17 points and Joyce Cousseins-Smith (165-PG-88) had 9 pts. In Sint Kateline, Sara Leemans (178-SF-88) was the leading scorer with just 9 points (5 rebs). Miete Celus (175-G-91) had one less. Quarters: 16-10, 23-8, 14-2, 20-17. Arras goes to Denmark in the next round, where they will meet SISU. Sint Kateline will host Russian Chevakata.

Arras: Nadezhda Grishaeva 18+12 boards, Gabriela Marginean 17, Joyce Cousseins-Smith 9
Sint Kateline: Sara Leemans 9+5 boards, Miete Celus 8


GROUP D

MBK Ruzomberok - Partizan 71-66 OT
MBK Ruzomberok celebrated crucial 71-66 OT win against Partizan in Round Four of the EuroCup regular season. Both teams had 2-1 record before this meeting, so Ruza stays alone on top of this pool. Partizan slipped to second place. Carmen Guzman (172-SG-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) paced the home squad to victory with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Kamila Stepanova (191-C-88) had 12 points and 6 rebs, while Ann Andersson (185-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: Minnesota) and Lucia Laskova (187-F/C-80) (5 rebs) netted 10 points each. In Partizan, Milica Dabovic (175-PG-82) delivered 21 points. Alicia Gladden (178-F-85, college: Florida St.) (7 rebs) and Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) (5 rebs) netted 15 and 11 pts. Quarters: 10-15, 18-17, 9-15, 21-11, 13-8 OT. Ruzomberok will meet Helios on the road in Round Five. Partizan will host Landes.

MBK Ruzomberok: Carmen Guzman 21+7 boards+5 as, Kamila Stepanova 12+6 boards, Lucia Laskova 10+5 boards, Ann Andersson 10
Partizan: Milica Dabovic 21, Alicia Gladden 15+7 boards, Tamara Radocaj 11+5 boards



Standings
Eurocup Standings
Group A
 1. Botas 4-0 
 2. Dynamo M. 2-2 
 3. Gorizont 2-3 
 4. Lombos Quinta 1-4 
Group B
 1. Besiktas 3-1 
 2. Young Cats 2-2 
 3. Dynamo-GUVD 2-2 
 4. Telge 1-3 
Group C
 1. Nantes 3-1 
 2. Optimum TED 3-1 
 3. Dexia Namur 2-2 
 4. AD Vagos 0-4 
Group D
 1. Union Hainaut 4-0 
 2. Gran Canaria 3-1 
 3. Fl.Foxes 1-3 
 4. Lemminkainen 0-4 
Group E
 1. Chevakata 4-0 
 2. Arras 3-1 
 3. Sint Kateline 1-3 
 4. SISU 0-4 
Group F
 1. Dynamo K. 4-0 
 2. Kayseri 3-1 
 3. Maccabi Ashdod 1-3 
 4. Olimpia 0-4 
Group G
 1. MBK Ruzomb. 3-1 
 2. Landes 2-2 
 3. Partizan 2-2 
 4. Helios 1-3 
Group H
 1. Elitzur Ramla 3-0 
 2. Mondeville 1-1 
 3. Spartak N. 0-3 


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


Standings (Women)
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Ros Casares 6-1 
 2. Galatasaray 6-1 
 3. UMMC 5-2 
 4. USK Praha 4-3 
 5. Bourges 3-4 
 6. Lotos Gdynia 2-5 
 7. VICI-Aistes 1-6 
 8. SEAT-SZESE 1-6 
Group B
 1. Fenerbahce 6-0 
 2. Perfumerias 5-1 
 3. Familia Schio 3-3 
 4. Nadezhda O. 3-3 
 5. UNIQA Eurol. 2-4 
 6. CCC Polkowice 2-4 
 7. Tarbes 0-6 
Group C
 1. Rivas Ecopolis 5-2 
 2. Wisla Can-Pak 5-2 
 3. Spartak V MR 5-2 
 4. Lattes Montp. 4-3 
 5. Dobri Anjeli 4-3 
 6. Taranto 2-5 
 7. Gospic 2-5 
 8. Frisco Sika 1-6 


Euroleague Round: 7 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Galatasaray - Ros Casares 46-76
Ros Casares demolish Galatasaray in Istanbul to hand them their first loss in EuroLeague. The undefeated Turkish Galatasaray was rolled over by Spanish Ros Casares 46:76. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Galatasaray. Ros Casares led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Galatasaray to just 6 points in second quarter. They outrebounded Galatasaray 46-28 including a 18-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston) fired 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Laia Palau (178-G-79) chipped in 20 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) produced 9 points and 10 rebounds and Diana Taurasi added 14 points respectively for lost side. Ros Casares have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending Spanish champion keeps a position of Group A leader, which they share with defeated Galatasaray. Ros Casares is looking forward to face bottom-ranked SEAT-SZESE in Gyor in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Galatasaray will play on the road against VICI-Aistes in Kaunas and is hoping to win this game.

USK Praha - Lotos Gdynia 82-77
USK Prague outleveled Lotos in the capital for 4-3 record in Group A of EuroLeague. The team from Czech Republic needed a strong finish to celebrate the victory. After Jolene Anderson (175-SG-86, college: Wisconsin) split two free-throws for Gdynia, Anna Montanana (186-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) went to the line and sank two and Prague ended up winning by five to leapfrog Bourges back into fourth place in Group A. Geraldine Robert gave the guests 17:11 as they grabbed 21:20 after the first 10 minutes. Aneika Henry (193-C-86, college: Florida) made it 25:22, while the hosts created a 9-0 run for 31:25. USK Prague led 5 points with a minute in the first half but could take only 37:36 deficit as Geraldine Robert and Zurowska closed the second period. Moreover Aneika Henry and Jalcova scored for 57:54 late in the third. Ines Ajanovic gave the Polish side 65:61 and Anderson remained them in front at 71:69. Penicheiro, Anna Montanana and Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) however delivered the victory for the hoists from the free throw line. Eva Viteckova top-scored for the winners with 24 points. Anna Montanana notched 16 and Petra Kulichova posted 11. Jolene Anderson replied with 26 points in the losing effort and Ines Ajanovic netted 12. Geraldine Robert posted 11, whilst Aneika Henry delivered 10.

UMMC - SEAT-SZESE 97-60
UMMC registered the fifth win in Euroleague regular season. They toppled visiting Gyor behind 19 points from Candace Parker (193-F/C-86, college: Tennessee). UMMC improved at 5-2 record, while Gyor dropped at 1-6 in Group A. Gyor opened the game with four points in a row but UMMC quickly erased the deficit. The hosts erupted for 31 points in the starting frame to take a 15-point lead after ten minutes. UMMC opened the second quarter with 13 points in a row to stay in charge. They established a comfortable 58:29 halftime advantage. The hosts kept their opponents at safe distance throughout the third period. UMMC secured a 76:52 lead heading into the fourth frame and never looked back en route to the win. Seven UMMC players scored in double figures. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) provided 15 points, while Cappie Pondexter (175-G-83, college: Rutgers) finished with 13 points in the win. Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) answered with 16 points for Gyor. Iva Ciglar had 15 points in defeat.

VICI-Aistes - Bourges 67-69
Bourges Basket claimed the third Euroleague victory this season. They overcame VICI Aistes in Kaunas tonight. Styliani Kaltsidou (188-C/F-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead the effort. Bourges surprised VICI Aistes in the opening frame. The French team fired 28 points in the starting quarter to take a 10-point lead. VICI got back to life in the second term. They narrowed the deficit at 9-point mark at halftime 33:42. But Bourges did not allow VICI to dictate the tempo in the third quarter. The visitors kept VICI Aistes at bay posting a 9-point advantage at the final break. VICI Aistes did not say die and went on a 14:2 rally that put them ahead 67:66 with 49 seconds remaining. But Styliani Kaltsidou nailed two free throws and Kiesha Brown (179-G-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) followed with one to seal the victory for Bourges. Nwal-Endene Miyem finished with 16 points, while Kiesha Brown added 14 points in the victory. Tatsiana Likhtarovich answered with 13 points for Bourges. Amanda Kemezys (192-C-87, college: St.Louis) netted 12 points in the loss.

Group B
Tarbes - Familia Schio 66-75
Familia Schio overcame Tarbes for 3-3 record in Group B of EuroLeague. The French Tarbes were defeated at home by fourth ranked Italian Familia Schio 75-66 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 44-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Tarbes were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Louisiana Tech) fired a double-double by scoring 18 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) chipped in 13 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Serbian guard Maja Miljkovic (175-G-88) produced 12 points and 5 rebounds and Romanian-French center Ana-Maria Cata-Chitiga (195-C-89) added 9 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Familia Schio moved-up to third place in Group B, which they share with Nadezhda O. Tarbes lost their sixth game in a row.

Nadezhda O. - CCC Polkowice 74-71
Nadezhda withheld a furious comeback effort from CCC to take the third win in Euroleague season. Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) provided 19 points to lead the hosts as they climbed at 3-3 record in Group B. CCC fell at 2-4 record after the loss. Nadezhda looked cruising to the victory in the first frame. They dominated throughout the quarter taking a 27:13 lead ten minutes into the encounter. But CCC stopped the rot in the second term. The Polish team cut the deficit to 11 points at the interval 21:32. CCC got even closer in the third term. They trailed by 10 points heading into the final period. Brunson stretched the lead back to 14 points midway through the fourth period but CCC Polkowice went on a 10:2 run to narrow the gap. Sharnee Zoll (170-PG-86, college: Virginia) hit a three-pointer to put the visitors within three points 71:74 with 39 seconds remaining. Brunson committed a turnover but CCC failed to capitalize as Sharnee Zoll missed an attempt from behind the arc. Elena Danilochkina (185-G-86) posted 17 points, while Katie Douglas added 16 points for the winners. Iva Perovanovic responded with 16 points for CCC. Sharnee Zoll finished with 15 points in the loss.

Perfumerias - Fenerbahce 69-77
Fenerbahce became the only undefeated team in EuroLeague 2011/2012. The Turksih favorites rolled over the defending champions in Spain, 77:69. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Perfumerias Avenida. It was a key game for the top position in Group B. Perfumerias Avenida was ahead by 4 points at the halftime before a 43-31 second half run of Fenerbahce. Fenerbahce had a 28-13 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Angel McCoughtry (185-F-86, college: Louisville) who helped to win the game recording 28 points and 6 rebounds. Australian forward Penny Taylor (185-F-81) contributed with 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) answered with 24 points and 7 rebounds and Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 15 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Perfumerias Avenida. Fenerbahce have an impressive series of six victories in a row. Defending Turkish champion maintains first place in Group B with 6-0 record. Perfumerias Avenida at the other side keeps the second position with one game lost.

Group C
Gospic - Wisla Can-Pak 65-73
Wisla Can-Pack is victorious in Croatia as the team grabbed 73:65 win over Gospic. The Polish team took the fifth victory in seventh games for the top position to share with Spartak. Paulina Pawlak (170-PG-84, agency: Data Plus Group) gave her team from the perimeter and Bjelica increased to 7:2. The hosts were too far to give up from the start and Komplet brought 16:15 for them. Moreover her three-pointer closed the first period at 23:19 but then Phillips tied the game early in the second frame. Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford) made the same at 33:33 and she was the last to post in the half for 41:39. She also closed the third period for the minimum advantage of the opponent side at 53:52. The last quarter became decisive in the game as Wisla erupted with 21-12 for the final success. Nicole Powell stepped up with 22 points and Phillips nailed 15. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Paulina Pawlak delivered 7. McBride and Vrsaljko ended up with 16 points apiece and Keane added 10.

Rivas Ecopolis - Taranto 74-70
Rivas Ecopolis closed Round 7 with the win over Taranto to join Saprtak and Wisla on top of the group. Rivas Ecopolis defeated 6th ranked Italian Taranto at home 74:70. Taranto was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 30-22 charge of Rivas Ecopolis, which allowed them to win the game. Rivas Ecopolis have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Taranto lost fourth consecutive game. Defending Italian champion keeps the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Gospic. Taranto will play next round against strong Lattes Montpellier trying to get back on the winning streak. Rivas Ecopolis will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Gospic on the road. Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) stepped up with 15 points for the winners and Cruz as well as Nicholls posted 13 each. Megan Mahoney (183-F-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas St.) replied with 21 points in the losing effort. Sottana notched 16, whilst Ballardini added 11.

Spartak V MR - Lattes Montp. 72-70
Spartak Moscow Region celebrated the fourth win in Euroleague season. They held off Montpellier at home court to catch up with their opponents at 4-2 record in Group C ladder. Seimone Augustus and Candice Dupree (188-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) scored 19 points each to pace the hosts. Montpellier got to a slightly better start. The visitors grabbed a 21:19 lead after ten minutes. Spartak erased the deficit in the second quarter. The hosts drew things level at 39 at halftime. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the third quarter before Spartak made it 54:49 with one quarter remaining. The teams went neck and neck throughout the fourth frame. Mann gave the French team a 70:67 lead with 51 seconds remaining. But Seimone Augustus drained a triple and Candice Dupree followed with a pair of free throws to seal the victory for the home team. Nika Baric and Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) accounted for 11 points each in the win. Stephany Skrba and Fatimatou Sacko (183-F-85) posted 12 points each in the loss.

Dobri Anjeli - Frisco Sika 71-54
Dobri Anjeli celebrated the fourth Euroleague win. They held off Frisco Sika in Kosice to improve at 4-3 record in Group C. Danielle McCray (180-G/F-87, college: Kansas) nailed 19 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to lead the effort. Dobri Anjeli stormed into the game. They limited Frisco Sika to just 8 points in the opening quarter take a 10-point lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the second term as Dobri Anjeli stayed in control. They posted a 37:27 halftime advantage. Frisco Sika however revived the intrigue in the third term. The visitors opened the second half on a 6:0 run to narrow the gap. Frisco Sika got as close as 4 points at the final break 45:49. Romana Hejdova (183-F-88) put the Czech team within three points midway through the final quarter but the hosts reacted with a 16:0 run and cruised to the victory at the end. Natalia Vieru posted 16 points and 14 rebounds, while Bernadett Nemeth (173-G-80) and Lucia Kupcikova provided 8 points each in the win. Romana Hejdova answered with 16 points for Frisco Sika. Ashley Robinson had 10 points in the loss.



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


Catz tamed PeKa - by Elina Koskinen
Catz took a victory as they beat PeKa 75-90 in Kotka yesterday evening. This victory meant that Catz have won all their ten games and that they are steadily in the first position in the league. Wednesday night game was even for the first half. In the first quarter Catz was sharper in the beginning while PeKa was missing the shots. Before the period ended PeKa had found the trick and taken the lead. They won the first quarter 22-20. The second period went on more evenly than the first and numbers were 18-19 for Catz. Half-time score 40-39 promised to be an exciting second half. However Catz wanted to end the game in the third period. Lead was changed after three minutes and visitors started to add point-difference little by little. Finally Catz took the quarter 15-34. Last period went again for PeKa by numbers 20-17, but Catz kept the lead and won the match 75-90. One reason for the victory was that Catz nailed two-point-shots much better as the accuracy was 58% against PeKas 39%. Also the visitors won the rebounds 35-48. Kirby Copeland (182-G-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia Tech) and Alexandria Anderson (185-G/F-86, college: Chattanooga) were the main stars as they netted 31 and 28 points respectively. They were assisted by Elena Reshetko (184-C/F-86) and Dionne Pounds (174-F-84, college: Lamar) who both scored 13 points. In addition Copeland, Reshetko and Pounds all gathered 10 rebounds. Rashada McCants (185-G/F-86, agency: LBM Management, college: N.Carolina) and Kamela Gissendanner (185-G-85, college: Penn St.) were the most efficient from PeKa. McCants finished 17 points and 7 rebounds while Gissendanner scored 13 points and 10 rebounds.

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


Union Hainaut jumps to 4-0 in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Union Hainaut - Lemminkainen 79-64

Union Hainaut secured a ticket for the second stage of EuroCup. The French team outplayed Lemminkainen on Wednesday night 79-64 for perfect 4-0 record in Group D. On the other side, Lithuanians dropped to 0-4. Emilie Silbande (178-SG-81) came up with 24 points for the winners. Amanda Houts (168-PG-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) scored 18, while Petra Stampalija (189-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 17 pts, 11 rebs and 8 assists. In Lemminkainen, Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) had double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Rita Milieskiene (175-PG-78) and Gabriele Gutkauskaite (172-PG-90) scored 12 and 11 points respectively. Quarters: 20-17, 20-12, 15-14, 24-21. Union Hainaut goes to Austria in the next round. Lemminkainen waits Gran Canaria.

Union Hainaut: Emilie Silbande 24, Amanda Houts 18, Petra Stampalija 17+11 boards+8 as
Lemminkainen: Monika Grigalauskyte 14+15 boards, Rita Milieskiene 12, Gabriele Gutkauskaite 11

Arras destroys Sint Kateline, 73-37 - by Eurobasket News
Arras - Sint Kateline 73-37

Arras jumped to 3-1 record in Group E of the EuroCup regular season. They blasted Sint Kateline at home and most probably already booked a spot for the next stage. On the other side, Sint Kateline slipped to 1-3 record in this pool. Nadezhda Grishaeva (195-PF-89) had double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) scored 17 points and Joyce Cousseins-Smith (165-PG-88) had 9 pts. In Sint Kateline, Sara Leemans (178-SF-88) was the leading scorer with just 9 points (5 rebs). Miete Celus (175-G-91) had one less. Quarters: 16-10, 23-8, 14-2, 20-17. Arras goes to Denmark in the next round, where they will meet SISU. Sint Kateline will host Russian Chevakata.

Arras: Nadezhda Grishaeva 18+12 boards, Gabriela Marginean 17, Joyce Cousseins-Smith 9
Sint Kateline: Sara Leemans 9+5 boards, Miete Celus 8

Nantes keeps AD Vagos winless in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Nantes - AD Vagos 66-54

Nantes registered third victory in EuroCup regular season. The French squad handed 66-54 loss to AD Vagos for 3-1 record in Group C (1st place). On the other side, the Portuguese team stays winless after four games. Doriane Tahane (191-C-89) led the hosts with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Johanne Gomis (178-SG-85) scored 14 points, while Lenae Williams (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: De Paul) (8 rebs, 6 as) and Caroline Aubert (168-PG-80, college: Colorado) (6 rebs, 7 as) had 10 points each. In AD Vagos, Flavia Santos (187-C-82) collected 19 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Lilian Goncalves (186-F-79) with 12 pts. Quarters: 25-13, 15-15, 17-16, 9-10. In the next round, Nantes will meet Dexia Namur on the road. AD Vagos waits Optimum TED.

Nantes: Doriane Tahane 18+6 boards, Johanne Gomis 14, Lenae Williams 10+8 boards+6 as, Caroline Aubert 10+6 boards+7 as
AD Vagos: Flavia Santos 19+7 boards, Lilian Goncalves 12

*****************************************************
  GERMANY - Women  


Lomax's double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
23-year old forward Judie Lomax (180-F-88) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Freiburg and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
She had a double-double of 23 points and 18 rebounds, while her team crushed Oberhausen (#8, 4-5) with 20-point margin 85-65. It allowed Freiburg to consolidate first place in the DBBL. Freiburg have a solid 8-1 record. Lomax turned to be Freiburg's top player in her first season with the team. Columbia University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Lomax is in league's top in points (3rd best: 19.0ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 12.1rpg) and averages solid 56.0% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Krystal Vaughn (185-G-86, agency: LBM Management) of Wasserburg. She is American guard in her first season at Wasserburg. In the last game Vaughn recorded impressive double-double of 25 points and 11 rebounds. Of course Wasserburg cruised to a 92-84 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Saarlouis (#12, 1-8). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Wasserburg keeps 9th position. Her team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-5 record. Vaughn is a newcomer at Wasserburg and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.9ppg (#6). She also registered 7.4 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Tamara Tatham (187-F-85) of Halle (#10). Tatham scored 20 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). She was a key player of Halle, leading her team to a 79-72 win against slightly lower-ranked Chemnitz (#11, 2-7). The chances of Halle not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 6 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Tatham could try to bring Halle's a little bit higher in the standings. Tatham has individually a great season in Germany. After only 7 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.6ppg (8th best) and rebounds with 10.0rpg (3rd best). She also has 3.6spg and FGP: 59.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Angela Pace (178-G-87) of OKE Panthers - 15 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Sharon Beld (184-F-88) of Oberhausen - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Ieva Kulite (191-C-88) of Wolfenbuettel - 10 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Amanda Rego (170-G-86) of Heli Girls - 8 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Jahzinga Tracey (185-G/F) of Freiburg - 16 points and 4 rebounds
9. Kim Sitzmann (178-G-88) of BG 89 Avides - 25 points and 4 rebounds
10. Baendu Lowenthal (183-F-88) of Rhein MB - 14 points and 8 rebounds

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

Standings - Women
DBBL Standings
 1. Freiburg 8-1 
 2. Wolfenbuettel 7-2 
 3. BG 89 Avides 6-3 
 4. OKE Panthers 5-4 
 5. Rhein MB 5-4 
 6. Marburg 5-4 
 7. Heli Girls 4-5 
 8. Oberhausen 4-5 
 9. Wasserburg 4-5 
 10. Halle 3-6 
 11. Chemnitz 2-7 
 12. Saarlouis 1-8 


*****************************************************
  ICELAND - Women  


Standings - Women
Express L. Standings
 1. Keflavik 8-1 
 2. Njardvik 6-3 
 3. KR 5-3 
 4. Haukar 5-4 
 5. Snaefell 5-4 
 6. Hamar 2-6 
 7. Fjolnir 2-7 
 8. Valur 2-7 


Express L. Round 9: Njardvik defeats KR in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
An interesting game for Njardvik (6-3) which played road game in Reykjavik against second-best KR (5-3). Third ranked Njardvik managed to get a 11-point victory 84-73. It was a key game for the second position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Njardvik. KR managed to win fourth quarter 18-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-29 free shots (79.3 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American swingman Lele Hardy (178-G/F-88, agency: Merit Sports, college: Clemson) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 13 rebounds. Her fellow American import guard Shanae Baker-Brice (168-87, college: Towson) contributed with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. The former international power forward Sigrun Amundadottir (183-88, agency: Promotex) answered with 23 points and 9 rebounds for KR. Njardvik moved-up to second place. KR lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the third position with three games lost. Njardvik are looking forward to face Hamar (#6) at home in the next round. KR will play against Snaefell in Stykkisholmur and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Valur managed to get a second victory, breaking the series of six consecutive loses. This time newly promoted Valur outleveled seventh-ranked Fjolnir in Reykjavik 89-64. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 25-point difference suggests that Valur is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. Guard Gudbjorg Sverrisdottir (175-92) stepped up and scored 20 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners and Melissa Lechlitner chipped in 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Valur's coach Agust Bjorgvinsson felt very confident using entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American guard Britney Jones (170-87, college: UAB) with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Valur (2-7) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with defeated Fjolnir. Fjolnir lost sixth consecutive game. Valur will play against league's leader Keflavik on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fjolnir will play against Haukar (#4) in Hafnarfjordur and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Express L. top team - Keflavik (8-1) managed to deliver another win on Wednesday. This time they beat sixth ranked Hamar (2-6) 65-54. Birna Valgardsdottir nailed a double-double by scoring 25 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side. Keflavik's coach used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Samantha Murphy came up with 26 points and 6 rebounds for Hamar in the defeat. Keflavik have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 8-1 record. Hamar at the other side keeps the sixth position with six games lost. Keflavik will meet at home bottom-ranked Valur (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hamar will play against the league's second-placed Njardvik and hope to secure a win.
The game in Hafnarfjordur supposed to be also worth to mention about. 4th placed Snaefell (5-4) played at the court of fifth ranked Haukar (5-4). Haukar smashed Snaefell 80-55. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Snaefell. The best player for the winners was Jence Rhoads who had a double-double by scoring 20 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Haukar. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with defeated Snaefell. Haukar's next round opponent will be Fjolnir (#7) on the road. Snaefell will play against KR in Reykjavik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.


Valur - Fjolnir 89-64

Bottom-ranked Valur managed to get a second victory, breaking the series of six consecutive loses. This time newly promoted Valur outleveled seventh-ranked Fjolnir in Reykjavik 89-64. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 25-point difference suggests that Valur is in a good shape to leave the bottom place. The game without a history. Valur led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 18-of-22 charity shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Valur forced 19 Fjolnir turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 6 passes made by Fjolnir's players. Guard Gudbjorg Sverrisdottir (175-92) stepped up and scored 20 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners and American guard Melissa Lechlitner (170-88, college: Notre Dame) chipped in 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Four Valur players scored in double figures. Valur's coach Agust Bjorgvinsson felt very confident using entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American guard Britney Jones (170-87, college: UAB) with 20 points and 9 rebounds and forward Birna Eiriksdottir (-80) scored 20 points. Valur (2-7) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with defeated Fjolnir. Fjolnir lost sixth consecutive game. Valur will play against league's leader Keflavik on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fjolnir will play against Haukar (#4) in Hafnarfjordur and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Valur: G.Sverrisdottir 20+6reb+6ast, M.Lechlitner 19+5reb+7ast, T.Bjarnadottir 13+6reb+3ast, K.Sigurjonsdottir 11+5reb+1ast, B.Ingvarsdottir 9+2reb+1ast, M.Ben Erlingsdottir 8+11reb+3ast
Fjolnir: B.Eiriksdottir 20+4reb, B.Jones 20+9reb+2ast, K.Mandylaris 7+15reb+1ast, E.Emilsdottir 6+2reb+1ast, B.Ragnarsdottir 5+4reb, E.Kristinsdottir 4+4reb+1ast
gschID: 142472


Haukar - Snaefell 80-55

The game in Hafnarfjordur supposed to be also worth to mention about. 4th placed Snaefell (5-4) played at the court of fifth ranked Haukar (5-4). Haukar smashed Snaefell 80-55. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Snaefell. The game without a history. Haukar led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 21 Snaefell turnovers. Haukar players were unselfish on offense dishing 25 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Snaefell's players. The best player for the winners was American guard Jence Rhoads (180-88, college: Vanderbilt) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists. Forward Iris Sverrisdottir (175-90) chipped in 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Haukar players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Kieraah Marlow (178-85) who recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points and 17 rebounds and guard Hildur Kjartansdottir (170-94) added 17 points and 11 rebounds respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Haukar. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with defeated Snaefell. Haukar's next round opponent will be Fjolnir (#7) on the road. Snaefell will play against KR in Reykjavik and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Haukar: J.Rhoads 20+5reb+10ast, I.Sverrisdottir 19+9reb+4ast, H.Elam 14+12reb+4ast, G.Osk Amundardottir 11+4reb, A.Olafsdottir 6+3reb, M.Halfdanardottir 5+4reb+1ast
Snaefell: K.Marlow 21+17reb+1ast, H.Kjartansdottir 17+11reb+1ast, R.Indridadottir 3+5reb, E.Hognadottir 3, B.Einarsdottir 3+3reb+1ast, H.Bjorgvinsdottir 2+2reb
gschID: 142473


Hamar - Keflavik 54-65

Express L. top team - Keflavik (8-1) managed to deliver another win on Wednesday. This time they beat sixth ranked Hamar (2-6) 65-54. The game was mostly controlled by Keflavik. Hamar managed to win fourth quarter 20-7. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Keflavik forced 19 Hamar turnovers and outrebounded them 48-32 including a 21-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. The former international forward Birna Valgardsdottir (181-76) nailed a double-double by scoring 25 points and 13 rebounds for the winning side and American forward Jaleesa Butler (183-87, college: Georgetown) accounted for 6 points and 14 rebounds. Keflavik's coach used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American guard Samantha Murphy (172, college: Grand Canyon) came up with 26 points and 6 rebounds and Marin Laufey Davidsdottir added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Hamar in the defeat. Keflavik have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 8-1 record. Hamar at the other side keeps the sixth position with six games lost. Keflavik will meet at home bottom-ranked Valur (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hamar will play against the league's second-placed Njardvik and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Keflavik: B.Valgardsdottir 25+13reb+1ast, P.Gunnlaugsdottir 9+3reb+7ast, S.Lind Thrastardottir 7+4reb, S.Run Hinriksdottir 7+3reb+1ast, J.Butler 6+14reb+2ast, L.Falsdottir 5+4reb
Hamar: S.Murphy 26+6reb+1ast, M.Laufey Davidsdottir 12+7reb+1ast, J.Hardardottir 9+7reb+1ast, K.Eik Ossurardottir 3+1reb, B.Sif Jonsdottir 3+1ast, K.Antonsdottir 1+3reb+1ast
gschID: 142474


KR - Njardvik 73-84

An interesting game for Njardvik (6-3) which played road game in Reykjavik against second-best KR (5-3). Third ranked Njardvik managed to get a 11-point victory 84-73. It was a key game for the second position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Njardvik. KR managed to win fourth quarter 18-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-29 free shots (79.3 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American swingman Lele Hardy (178-88, college: Clemson, agency: Merit Sports) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 13 rebounds. Her fellow American import guard Shanae Baker-Brice (168-87, college: Towson) contributed with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. The former international power forward Sigrun Amundadottir (183-88, agency: Promotex) answered with 23 points and 9 rebounds and American guard Erica Prosser (170, college: Lehigh) added 20 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for KR. Four KR players scored in double figures. Njardvik moved-up to second place. KR lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the third position with three games lost. Njardvik are looking forward to face Hamar (#6) at home in the next round. KR will play against Snaefell in Stykkisholmur and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Njardvik: L.Hardy 30+13reb+2ast, S.Baker-Brice 18+8reb+8ast, E.Hakonardottir 15, E.Lif Sigurdardottir 7+1reb+3ast, S.Saevarsdottir 4+6reb+1ast, S.Margeirsdottir 4+1reb
KR: S.Amundadottir 23+9reb+3ast, E.Prosser 20+5reb+5ast, H.Einarsdottir 13+10reb+2ast, B.Gudmundsdottir 10+8reb+6ast, M.Sturludottir 7+5reb+1ast, H.Saevarsdottir 0
gschID: 142471




Hardy's double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
23-year old swingman Lele Hardy (178-G/F-88, agency: Merit Sports) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Njardvik and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
She had a double-double of 30 points and 13 rebounds, while her team beat KR (#3, 5-3) 84-73. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Njardvik is placed at 2nd position in Express L.. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Njardvik will need more victories to improve their 6-3 record. Hardy turned to be Njardvik's top player in her first season with the team. Clemson University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Hardy. Hardy is in league's top in points (3rd best: 26.0ppg), assists (9th best: 4.6apg) and averages solid 4.0spg.

Second best performed player last round was Birna Valgardsdottir (181-F-76) of top-ranked Keflavik. She is former international forward in her 7th season at Keflavik. In the last game Valgardsdottir recorded impressive double-double of 25 points and 13 rebounds. Of course Keflavik cruised to a 65-54 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Hamar (#6, 2-6). Of course Keflavik still keep the league's top spot. Her team lost just one game this season, while they won 8 matches. Valgardsdottir is one of the most experienced players at Keflavik and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Jence Rhoads (180-G-88) of Haukar (#4). Rhoads showcased her all-around game by recording 20 points, five rebounds and ten assists (!!!) in the last round. She was a key player of Haukar, leading her team to a 80-55 easy win against Snaefell (5-4). Haukar needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 5 victories and 4 lost games. Rhoads has a great season in Iceland. After only 8 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 7.1apg (best passer). She also has 2.9spg and 1.9bpg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kieraah Marlow (178-F-85) of Snaefell - 21 points and 17 rebounds
5. Shanae Baker-Brice (168-G-87) of Njardvik - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Hildur Kjartansdottir (170-G-94) of Snaefell - 17 points and 11 rebounds
7. Gudbjorg Sverrisdottir (175-G-92) of Valur - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Melissa Lechlitner (170-G-88) of Valur - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists
9. Sigrun Amundadottir (183-C/F-88) of KR - 23 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Iris Sverrisdottir (175-F-90) of Haukar - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists

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

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


Rivas Ecopolis closed Round 7 with the win over Taranto - by Eurobasket News
Rivas Ecopolis - Taranto 74:70

Rivas Ecopolis closed Round 7 with the win over Taranto to join Saprtak and Wisla on top of the group. Rivas Ecopolis defeated 6th ranked Italian Taranto at home 74:70. Taranto was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 30-22 charge of Rivas Ecopolis, which allowed them to win the game. Rivas Ecopolis have an impressive series of five victories in a row.
Taranto lost fourth consecutive game. Defending Italian champion keeps the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Gospic. Taranto will play next round against strong Lattes Montpellier trying to get back on the winning streak. Rivas Ecopolis will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Gospic on the road.
Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) stepped up with 15 points for the winners and Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) as well as Laura Nicholls (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) posted 13 each. Megan Mahoney (183-F-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas St.) replied with 21 points in the losing effort. Giorgia Sottana (177-G-88) notched 16, whilst Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) added 11.

Rivas Ecopolis: Essence Carson 15, Anna Cruz 13, Laura Nicholls 13
Taranto: Megan Mahoney 21, Giorgia Sottana 16, Simona Ballardini 11


*****************************************************
  KENYA - Women  


MSC Basketball Champs - by Eurobasket News
Mombasa Sports Club's women's basketball team won the Coast Basketball League at the weekend by thrashing Mombasa Polytechnic University College 71-17 at the Mombasa Baptist High School.

While Mombasa Sports Club were celebrating the title they last won in 2009, Makupa Lakers maintained a tight grip on the men's trophy by beating hard-fighting Mombasa Baptist High School 65-58 in a tension-charged match which could have gone either way.




The ladies final as expected was once again a one sided affair as Mombasa Sports club, mostly comprising of players from Unicef sponsored Shimba Hills Secondary School ladies basketball team, dominated the final from the word go and never looked back.

MSC started well with Primrose Asurra, Margaret Ndirangu and Evelyn Atieno combining well for a huge 19 - 00 first quarter lead but made changes in the second quarter allowing the polytechnic students back into the game for 9-4 score to lead 28-04 at the break.

Backed by 18ts from Ndirangu and 10 points from Mercy Jerotich, M.S.C exploded in the third quarter.
Courtesy of: Daily Nation

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


Standings - LSBL
LSBL Standings
 1. TTT Riga 9-0 
 2. Cesis 5-2 
 3. DU 5-3 
 4. TTT Juniores 5-4 
 5. RTU-Merks 4-4 
 6. Liepajas 3-4 
 7. LU 1-7 
 8. Kolibri/U-16 0-8 


*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA - Women  


Union Hainaut jumps to 4-0 in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Union Hainaut - Lemminkainen 79-64

Union Hainaut secured a ticket for the second stage of EuroCup. The French team outplayed Lemminkainen on Wednesday night 79-64 for perfect 4-0 record in Group D. On the other side, Lithuanians dropped to 0-4. Emilie Silbande (178-SG-81) came up with 24 points for the winners. Amanda Houts (168-PG-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) scored 18, while Petra Stampalija (189-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 17 pts, 11 rebs and 8 assists. In Lemminkainen, Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) had double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds. Rita Milieskiene (175-PG-78) and Gabriele Gutkauskaite (172-PG-90) scored 12 and 11 points respectively. Quarters: 20-17, 20-12, 15-14, 24-21. Union Hainaut goes to Austria in the next round. Lemminkainen waits Gran Canaria.

Union Hainaut: Emilie Silbande 24, Amanda Houts 18, Petra Stampalija 17+11 boards+8 as
Lemminkainen: Monika Grigalauskyte 14+15 boards, Rita Milieskiene 12, Gabriele Gutkauskaite 11

*****************************************************
  MALTA - Women  


Loyola and Depiro enter BOV Knock-Out semis - by Eurobasket News
Loyola and Depiro will play in BOV Knock-Out semifinals. They overcame Qormi Phoenix and Athleta respectively.
Loyola dominated in their clash against Qormi. The recent MBA Shield winners took a 17:6 lead after ten minutes. Loyola boosted the margin to 20 points 30:10. Loyola maintained the lead and sealed the winning outcome at 50:25.
Depiro in the meantime held off Athleta 63:53. Athleta opened the game with six points in a row but Depiro bounced back taking a 12:10 advantage after ten minutes. They established a 32:14 halftime advantage. Athleta refused to give up and eventually pulled ahead 47:46 midway through the final quarter. But Depiro went on a 9:0 run that sealed the win for them.

*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO - Women  


Standings - Women League
Prve A ZCKL Standings
 1. Buducnost 3-0 
 2. Rudar 3-0 
 3. Roling Niksic 3-1 
 4. Primorje 2-2 
 5. Lovcen 1-3 
 6. Antivari Bar 0-3 
 7. Kotor 0-3 


Round 4: Buducnost and Rudar stay perfect - by Eurobasket News
Round Four of the Montenegrin top division is completed last night. Buducnost cruised past Lovcen in Cetinje celebrating easy 52-83 victory. The Podgorica team jumped to 3-0 record sharing the first place with Rudar. On the other side, Lovcen dropped to 1-3. Also in this round, Rudar hosted Primorje. The home squad registered 57-49 victory to keep the perfect score. Visitors dropped to 2-2. Roling did a good job against Antivari as a guest. The team from Niksic celebrated 48-75 victory in this round for 3-1 record. Antivari stays winless after three games played. Round Five is scheduled for the next weekend.

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


Mathies' strong game lifts No. 14 Kentucky - by Eurobasket News
A'Dia Mathies (5'9''-G) flirted with a triple-double finishing with 11 points, seven rebounds and eight steals in No. 14 Kentucky's 81-48 win over Nebraska Omaha on Wednesday.

The Wildcats (5-0) struggled early to separate themselves from Nebraska Omaha, consistently holding a one-possession lead well into the first half. With a 15-12 advantage, the Cats' full-court press came alive and forced turnovers on five straight Mavericks possessions and scored 11 points on those opportunities.

After giving up a basket to Nebraska Omaha, the Wildcats then ran off another 15 straight points.

Kentucky forced the Mavericks into 42 turnovers Wednesday. The Wildcats' opponents have committed at least 30 turnovers in every game this season.

Paige Frauendorfer led the Mavericks (2-2) with 12 points.

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

No. 9 Miami beats Alaska-Anchorage 72-55 - by Eurobasket News
Shenise Johnson (5'11''-G-90) scored 18 points and No. 9 Miami beat Alaska-Anchorage 72-55 on Wednesday in the opening round of the Carrs-Safeway Great Alaska Shootout.

The Hurricanes (3-1) shot just 27 percent in the first half against the Division II Seawolves (4-1). Johnson's 3-pointer just before the first-half buzzer gave Miami a 28-26 lead.

Miami cranked up the defensive pressure after halftime, forcing 18 second-half turnovers with a full-court press.

Maria Brown completed a three-point play with 12:43 remaining to give the Hurricanes a 45-35 lead. The Seawolves closed to 45-40 with 10:49 to go but could not get any closer.

Morgan Stroman (6'1''-F) and Riquna Williams (5'7''-G) each added 14 points for Miami.

Hanna Johansson, Kaylie Robison, Hallie Holmstead and Tijera Mathews had 10 points apiece for Alaska-Anchorage

Courtesy of www.boston.com

*****************************************************
  NIGERIA - Women  


17th ACCW: We are happy to host the final round - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The 2011 edition of the final round of the FIBA Africa Champions Club for Women earlier schedule for Cameroon will now hold in Nigeria with the FIBA Africa Zone-3 nation domestic league champion, First Deepwater basketball club as the host club.

In a media briefing hosted by the club at the corporate headquarter of it parent company First Deepwater Discovery Limited in Surulere, Lagos on Wednesday, club chairman, Babatunde Babalola told journalists that the club is proud to associate itself with programmes of the continental ruling body FIBA Africa.

The Oil & Gas mogul says, the notice for hosting the final round of the continent biggest women club championship came rather late but the club cannot afford to allow the competition suffer as a responsible corporate organisation who is committed to the development of basketball across Africa.

Babalola, however appealed to the media to continue to play its leading role of giving maximum publicity to basketball programmes in Nigeria in particular and Africa in general.

'I want to state that we are pleased to be part of the ongoing effort of pushing basketball up the ladder in Africa and to be considered worthy to stage the final round of the 2011 17th FIBA Africa Champions Club for Women.

'Due to the shortness of the notice we are providing the needed fund to the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) for the smooth organisation of the championship.

'The club and management of its parent company will continue to do its best to contribute its quota to the development and promotion of basketball across Africa, concluded Babalola.

Eight clubs will take part in the December 4 to 10 17th ACCW with the sports hall of the national stadium, Lagos as venue.

The teams include hosting club First Deepwater basketball club defending champion Interclube of Angola, First Bank basketball club of Nigeria, I.N.J.S basketball club of Cameroon,

Arc-en-Ciel of Democratic Republic of Congo; Maculosso of Angola; Ports Authority of Kenya and O.C.E of Algeria.

*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL - Women  


Nantes keeps AD Vagos winless in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Nantes - AD Vagos 66-54

Nantes registered third victory in EuroCup regular season. The French squad handed 66-54 loss to AD Vagos for 3-1 record in Group C (1st place). On the other side, the Portuguese team stays winless after four games. Doriane Tahane (191-C-89) led the hosts with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Johanne Gomis (178-SG-85) scored 14 points, while Lenae Williams (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: De Paul) (8 rebs, 6 as) and Caroline Aubert (168-PG-80, college: Colorado) (6 rebs, 7 as) had 10 points each. In AD Vagos, Flavia Santos (187-C-82) collected 19 points and 7 rebs. Their second scorer was Lilian Goncalves (186-F-79) with 12 pts. Quarters: 25-13, 15-15, 17-16, 9-10. In the next round, Nantes will meet Dexia Namur on the road. AD Vagos waits Optimum TED.

Nantes: Doriane Tahane 18+6 boards, Johanne Gomis 14, Lenae Williams 10+8 boards+6 as, Caroline Aubert 10+6 boards+7 as
AD Vagos: Flavia Santos 19+7 boards, Lilian Goncalves 12

*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO - Women  


Carolina defeats BSNF title, Yolanda Jones is Finals MVP - by Eurobasket News
BSNF Finals, Game 7: Morovis - Carolina 84-92 OT

Carolina defended BSNF title. They managed to beat Morovis in crucial Game Seven of the finals series. It was 84-92 road victory and Carolina needed an overtime to make it. Yolanda Jones (184-F-84, college: La-Lafayette) was named MVP of the series. She had 23 points and 18 rebounds last night. Lindsay Laur (182-F, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) also was great adding 21 points and 11 rebs, while Jordan Murphree (183-G-87, agency: Merit Sports, college: Texas Tech) helped with 16 pts. Cynthia Valentin (174-SG-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Indiana) and Angiely Morales (180-SG-87) scored 12 points each. For the hosts, Brittainey Raven (183-G-88, college: Texas) shined with 24 points and 13 rebs. Pamela Rosado (166-PG-86) and Angelina Williams (183-F-83, college: Illinois) had 22 and 14 points respectively. Carolina was No.3 in the regular season with 15-9 record. They eliminated Ponce in QFinals and Juncos in the Semis.

Morovis: Brittainey Raven 24+13 boards, Pamela Rosado 22, Angelina Williams 14
Carolina: Yolanda Jones 23+18 boards, Lindsay Laur 21+11 boards, Jordan Murphree 16, Cynthia Valentin 12, Angiely Morales 12

Standings - Women
BSNF Standings
 1. Morovis M. 19-3 
 2. Juncos V. 18-5 
 3. Carolina G. 15-9 
 4. San German 13-10 
 5. Ponce L. 10-14 
 6. Guaynabo M. 9-13 
 7. San Juan W. 5-17 
 8. Aguas B.T. 2-20 


*****************************************************
  RUSSIA - Women  


Gorizont grabs valuable win in Moscow - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo Moscow - Gorizont 67-73

Great win for Gorizont in Round Four of the EuroCup regular season. The Belarusian squad outplayed Dynamo in Moscow 67-73 for 2-3 record in Group A. At the same time, Dynamo dropped to 2-2. Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) led Gorizont with 22 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Viktoriya Hasper (193-C-88) and Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) added 17 and 16 points respectively. In the loosing squad, Svetlana Maksimenko (183-PF-82, agency: LBM Management) had 15 points and 6 rebs. Anna Leshovceva (182-PF-87) and Elena Kharchenko (194-C-83, agency: LBM Management) (7 rebs) had 14 and 12 points respectively. Quarters: 14-22, 24-16, 14-20, 15-15. In the next round, Gorizont will host Botas. Dynamo will meet Lobos Quinta on the road.

Dynamo Moscow: Svetlana Maksimenko 15+6 boards, Anna Leshovceva 14, Elena Kharchenko 12+7 boards
Gorizont: Tatyana Troina 22+9 boards+5 as, Viktoriya Hasper 17, Natalia Anufryienka 16

*****************************************************
  SERBIA - Women  


MBK Ruzomberok beats Partizan in OT - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok - Partizan 71-66 OT

MBK Ruzomberok celebrated crucial 71-66 OT win against Partizan in Round Four of the EuroCup regular season. Both teams had 2-1 record before this meeting, so Ruza stays alone on top of this pool. Partizan slipped to second place. Carmen Guzman (172-SG-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) paced the home squad to victory with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Kamila Stepanova (191-C-88) had 12 points and 6 rebs, while Ann Andersson (185-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: Minnesota) and Lucia Laskova (187-F/C-80) (5 rebs) netted 10 points each. In Partizan, Milica Dabovic (175-PG-82) delivered 21 points. Alicia Gladden (178-F-85, college: Florida St.) (7 rebs) and Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) (5 rebs) netted 15 and 11 pts. Quarters: 10-15, 18-17, 9-15, 21-11, 13-8 OT. Ruzomberok will meet Helios on the road in Round Five. Partizan will host Landes.

MBK Ruzomberok: Carmen Guzman 21+7 boards+5 as, Kamila Stepanova 12+6 boards, Lucia Laskova 10+5 boards, Ann Andersson 10
Partizan: Milica Dabovic 21, Alicia Gladden 15+7 boards, Tamara Radocaj 11+5 boards

*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA - Women  


MBK Ruzomberok beats Partizan in OT - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok - Partizan 71-66 OT

MBK Ruzomberok celebrated crucial 71-66 OT win against Partizan in Round Four of the EuroCup regular season. Both teams had 2-1 record before this meeting, so Ruza stays alone on top of this pool. Partizan slipped to second place. Carmen Guzman (172-SG-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UAB) paced the home squad to victory with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Kamila Stepanova (191-C-88) had 12 points and 6 rebs, while Ann Andersson (185-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: Minnesota) and Lucia Laskova (187-F/C-80) (5 rebs) netted 10 points each. In Partizan, Milica Dabovic (175-PG-82) delivered 21 points. Alicia Gladden (178-F-85, college: Florida St.) (7 rebs) and Tamara Radocaj (170-PG-87) (5 rebs) netted 15 and 11 pts. Quarters: 10-15, 18-17, 9-15, 21-11, 13-8 OT. Ruzomberok will meet Helios on the road in Round Five. Partizan will host Landes.

MBK Ruzomberok: Carmen Guzman 21+7 boards+5 as, Kamila Stepanova 12+6 boards, Lucia Laskova 10+5 boards, Ann Andersson 10
Partizan: Milica Dabovic 21, Alicia Gladden 15+7 boards, Tamara Radocaj 11+5 boards

*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA - Women  


Standings - Women
SKL Standings
 1. Triglav 6-0 
 2. Athlete Celje 5-1 
 3. Grosuplje 5-1 
 4. AJM Maribor 4-2 
 5. Jezica 4-2 
 6. Ilrija 3-3 
 7. Pomurje 2-5 
 8. Rogaska 1-5 
 9. Odeja KED 0-5 
 10. Domzale 0-6 
Play in international cups:
 1. Hit K.Gora 0-0 


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA - Women  


Standings - WKBL
WKBL Standings
 1. S-Birds 10-2 
 2. Winnus 8-4 
 3. KB Stars 7-5 
 4. Bichumi 6-6 
 5. Cool Cats 4-8 
 6. Woori Hansae 1-11 


*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Rivas Ecopolis closed Round 7 with the win over Taranto - by Eurobasket News
Rivas Ecopolis - Taranto 74:70

Rivas Ecopolis closed Round 7 with the win over Taranto to join Saprtak and Wisla on top of the group. Rivas Ecopolis defeated 6th ranked Italian Taranto at home 74:70. Taranto was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 30-22 charge of Rivas Ecopolis, which allowed them to win the game. Rivas Ecopolis have an impressive series of five victories in a row.
Taranto lost fourth consecutive game. Defending Italian champion keeps the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Gospic. Taranto will play next round against strong Lattes Montpellier trying to get back on the winning streak. Rivas Ecopolis will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Gospic on the road.
Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) stepped up with 15 points for the winners and Anna Cruz (173-PG-86, agency: Josep and Nicolas) as well as Laura Nicholls (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) posted 13 each. Megan Mahoney (183-F-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas St.) replied with 21 points in the losing effort. Giorgia Sottana (177-G-88) notched 16, whilst Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) added 11.

Rivas Ecopolis: Essence Carson 15, Anna Cruz 13, Laura Nicholls 13
Taranto: Megan Mahoney 21, Giorgia Sottana 16, Simona Ballardini 11


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND - Women  


Trahan number one in LNA for round 8 - by Eurobasket News
American center Celeste Trahan (184-C-85, agency: LBM Management) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Fribourg, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8.
The 26-year old player had a double-double of 37 points and 13 rebounds, while her team outclassed Highflyers (#8, 1-6) with 31-point margin 84-53. Fribourg maintains the 2nd position in Swiss LNA. They are still close to the very top. Fribourg would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 6-1 record. Trahan has many years of experience at Fribourg, through which he has constantly improved. Former Elizabeth City State University star has very solid stats this year. Trahan is league's best scorer averaging so far 32.4ppg. Trahan is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 14.4rpg) and averages impressive 1.6bpg,3.6spg and 65.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Shyra Ely (188-F-83, agency: Merit Sports) of league's leader Helios. Ely had a very good evening with 32 points and 4 rebounds. Of course she lead Helios to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Hope-GBA (#5, 3-4) 88-40. Of course Helios still keep the league's top spot. She plays for the best team in the league and Helios managed to win all 7 games keeping perfect record. Ely is a newcomer at Helios, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Shannon McCallum (177-G-87) of Riva Basket (#3). McCallum got into 30-points club by scoring 41 points in the last round. She went also for five assists. She was a key player of Riva Basket, leading her team to a 76-53 easy win against the lower-ranked Ovronnaz-Mart. (#9, 1-6). Riva Basket needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 5 victories and 2 lost games. McCallum has a great season in Switzerland. After only 8 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.6ppg (4th best). She also has 3.0spg and FGP: 52.8%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Diodio Diouf (170-G-84) of Pully - 21 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Eva Moldovanyi (183-F/C-87) of Basel - 23 points and 17 rebounds
6. Colleen Hart (163-G-88) of Basel - 23 points and 9 rebounds
7. Jamila Griffith (183-G/F-82) of Ovronnaz-Mart. - 17 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Pamela Palamar (183-F/C-92) of Highflyers - 17 points and 6 rebounds
9. Whitney Boddie (173-G-87) of Helios - 14 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Alendra Brown (191-F/C-86) of Pully - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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


Antakya lands Shannon Bobbitt - by Eurobasket News
Shannon Bobbitt (157-G-85, college: Tennessee) will continue her career in Turkey. The American point guard penned a deal with Homend Antakya Belediyesi for rest of the season. Bobbitt played for the WNBA team Indiana Fever this year. She had 3.6 ppg, 1.3 rpg and 1.8 apg in 36 games. In 2010/11 season, Shannon Bobbitt played in Israel. She started it with Raanana Haerzeliya and in November of 2010 moved to Elitzur Maclaren Holon. She had 16.9 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 4.9 apg in 14 games with the Holon team. In the past, Bobbitt played for Maccabi Ramat Hen and Polish Polkowice. She already played in Turkey in 2008/09 season. At that time, Bobbitt was a member of Botas.

*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


Women's National Cup - favourites progress - by Eurobasket News
Sheffield Hatters were close to suffering their second consecutive loss of the weekend, but hung on to beat Barking Abbey 70-67 and progress to the semi-finals of the National Cup.

A day after losing to Sevenoaks in the league, Hatters lost the first quarter but appeared to take control of the game with a 25-10 second quarter to lead 46-34 at half-time. A stellar defensive effort by the your Leopards in the third quarter limited Sheffield to six points and had them within two after three quarters.

A nip and tuck final quarter ensued with Hatters eventually coming out on top in the closing moments. Stehpanie Gandy led Sheffield with 20 points, matched by Barking's Harriett Yea.

Nottingham Wildcats held Team Northumbria to just 11 points in the final quarter to secure a 67-59 win as their season appears to be getting back on track.

One day after pickiing up their first league win of the season Nottingham scored 19 points of their own in the final quarter to win after being tied at 48 after three quarters.

Siobhan Prior (178-G-87, college: Loyola, MD) led Nottingham with 25 points. Catherine Carr (183-F, college: Holy Family) was Northumbria's leading scorer with 21.

UWIC Archers had no trouble dispatching Manchester Mystics 86-36 in the quarter-finals led by Rose Anderson's 22 points. Manchester scored only 6 points in the opneing quarter and just 4 points in the closing quarter and none of their players got into double figures.

UWIC coach Damian Jennings was positive about his team's performance: 'Manchester are one of the stronger Division 2 teams so we knew it would not be an easy game. It was good for us to see improvements in our performance from the previous weekend. I thought we transitioned well and although we were a bit sloppy in the 3rd quarter the players responded well to poor decisions and form with some very solid play at both ends.'

The final semi-final spot was booked by Sevenoaks Suns as they backed up their league win over Sheffield with a comfortable 82-39 win at Division 2 Bromsgrove Bears.

The result was never in doubt after a 20-10 opening quarter. Sevenoaks' young players were given a chance to shine by coach Len Busch with Cheridene Green leading the way on 19 points, closely followed by Ashleigh Munns (174-PG-94) on 17.

The draw for the semi-finals sees Nottingham host Sheffield in a repeat of the last two cup finals and UWIC face the trip to Kent to match-up with Sevenoaks.

Quarter Final
Nov 20 2011
5.00pm		 Nottingham Wildcats 67 v 59 Team Northumbria Nottingham Wildcats Arena
Nov 20 2011
1.00pm		 Bromsgrove Bears 39 v 82 Sevenoaks Suns South Bromsgrove High School
Nov 20 2011
2.00pm		 City Of Sheffield Hatters 70 v 67 Barking Abbey Leopards All Saints RC School
Nov 20 2011
1.30pm		 UWIC Archers 86 v 36 Manchester Mystics UWIC Sports Hall
Semi Final
Dec 11 2011
Time: TBC		 Nottingham Wildcats v City Of Sheffield Hatters Nottingham Wildcats Arena
Dec 11 2011
Time: TBC		 Sevenoaks Suns v UWIC Archers Sevenoaks School Sports Centre

Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk



Division 1 Women preview - by Eurobasket News
Five games are scheduled in the Women's top division this weekend including back to back games for Leeds and Sevenoaks.

Nottingham Wildcats v UWIC Archers
26 November, 5.30pm, Nottingham Wildcats Arena
Nottingham Wildcats won their first game of the season last weekend but to continue their streak they must defeat the current league leaders UWIC Archers on Saturday.
Wildcats were defeated in their opening three league games but looked more like the 15-6 team they were in 2010/11 against Durham, beating the northern team by 32 points.
UWIC coach Damian Jennings realizes the threat Nottingham pose:
'We know how tough this game will be as Nottingham at their place has always been a testing road trip. I think we can pretty much forget their start to the season at this point as a measure of them given their last few results, the calibre of the starting group and the quality of coach Burton - it was only a matter of time before they found their rhythm,' he said.
UWIC are 4-0 so far this season and, along with Wildcats, are through to the National Cup semi finals.
Jennings, who is also the Great Britain Under 20 Women's head coach and Senior Women assistant coach, continued by saying:
'We are hungry to prove ourselves on the road with not just wins but performances that have us moving forward. There are some key match-ups in this game but ultimately, like always, we will look to get it done across the depth of the roster and not just rely on individual performances.'
City of Sheffield Hatters v Durham Wildcats
26 November, 4pm, All Saints
After suffering a shock loss to Sevenoaks Suns last weekend, Hatters will look to get back on track in the league when they host the struggling Durham Wildcats Saturday afternoon. Sheffield dropped their first game in a year last weekend at Sevenoaks, while Durham's pummelling at the hands of Nottingham pushed them to 1-4 this season.
Despite their lowly start, Durham do have the league's current leader in scoring and rebounds, Rachel Baker (183-G, college: William Woods). The American is also leading the league in three-point shooting percentage (60%).
Barking Abbey Leopards v Leeds Carnegie
26 November, 8pm, Barking Abbey LC
Leeds Carnegie will hope to lift themselves off the foot of the table with two games this weekend, first of which against Barking Abbey on the road.
The 8pm tip in London means coach Nick Dawson and Leeds will be returning late for their Sunday home game and a win would be welcome for the Yorkshire club, who are 0-3.
Barking Abbey look strong at this early stage of the season, with a couple of league wins and Hatters only scraped by them in the National Cup quarter finals last weekend.
In Harriett Yea, Sarah McKay and Kashmere Joseph they three solid players with national teams experience and fans will likely see them as playoff contenders this season.
Team Northumbria v Sevenoaks Suns
26 November, 4pm, Sport Central
Coach Len Busch and Sevenoaks Suns' reward for beating one of the league's top teams is a two-game road trip in the north, starting with Team Northumbria on Saturday afternoon.
Suns' defeat of Hatters was amongst a few EBL upsets last weekend, that also saw Derby and Reading eliminated from the Men's National Cup. Sevenoaks also advanced to the semis of the National Cup.
Team Northumbria are 2-2 so far this season and scored at least 90 points in the games they've won, backed by their high-scoring import Ta'Yani Clark. Clark is the league's second-best scorer and rebounder and leads Division 1 in assists per game so far this season.
Leeds Carnegie v Sevenoaks Suns
27 November, 2pm, Leeds Met University
Sevenoaks travel a couple of hours south for Sunday's game against Leeds Carnegie as both teams look to refresh from their Saturday road trips.
A pair of wins for either of these clubs would be welcome this weekend. Sevenoaks could push themselves to 4-1, joining Sheffield and UWIC near the table top, and wins for Leeds would obviously be their first of the season.Courtesy of: http://www.englandbasketball.co.uk


Standings - Women
EBL Standings
 1. UWIC Archers 4-0 
 2. Sheffield Hatters 3-1 
 3. Barking Abbey 2-1 
 4. Sevenoaks Suns 2-1 
 5. Northumbria 2-2 
 6. Nottingham 1-3 
 7. Durham W. 1-4 
 8. Leeds Carnegie 0-3