EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 12/17/2011

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ABA   


Gwizzlies roster unveiled - by Gianni Pascucci
Usbasket.com is happy to finally publish the Georgia Gwizzlies, 2011-12 full roster, as just received from the team's headquarters. Desmond Blue (6'11''-C-88, college: Lee) is the starting center, Ramar Smith (6'3''-G-87, college: Tennessee) the go-to mam. The complete teamlist is as follows:

Ramar Smth G, 6-2
Adam Yeoman F/C, 6-8
Chidi Okoli G/F, 6-6
Chris Mark F, 6-7
Desmond Blue C, 6-11
Carl-Jean Bart G, 5-10
Heru Kandioani F, 6-6
Kelmondra Pack G, 6-2
Marcus Jordan G, 6-3
David Erickson C, 7-0 (on injury reserve list until Jan.'12)

Head Coach/GM: Embry Malone

Explosion wins home opener - by Gianni Pascucci
On Sunday, Dec 11, the Lima Explosion defeated the Michiana Monarchs, 128-117 at the Elida Fieldhouse in Elida, Ohio. The Explosion (now 3-0) beat the visiting Monarchs thanks to a spirited comeback in the second half that saw them erase a 90-80 deficit late in the third quarter. Lima went on a 20-2 run over the end of the third quarter and early into the fourth to grab a 100-92 lead they did not relinquish. Jamar Butler (6'1''-PG-85, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Ohio St.) paced Lima with 24 points and was joined by Kyle Meyer (6'5''-F) with 20, Willie Tisdale (5'8''-G) with 19 and Bryant Austin (6'6''-F) with 17.
The Monarchs fell behind early and trailed 29-15 late in the first quarter before they regrouped and went on a 39-17 spurt to grab a 54-46 lead but the Explosion bounced back to go to the half tied at 57 each. The Monarchs rode a strong inside game by Donnie Parker as they fought back against the early Lima lead. Parker finished with a game-high 31 points. The two teams fought to a 35-35 stand-still in the third period and entered the final quarter tied at 92-92. Meyer helped put the game away when he scored 13 fourth quarter points and Deangelo Jordan (6'7''-G, college: Tiffin) put an exclamation point on the victory with a huge slam dunk on a feed from Butler.
It feels great to start the season with three wins, Explosion coach Quincy Simpson said. We were a little sluggish after last nights game, but we played hard and got some stops when we needed them.
The Explosion are in their first season of competition in the league so there is a steep learning curve.
We are still trying different rotations and trying to find out which players complement each other, Simpson said. The best thing about this job is the winning. Lima will play host to Gem City in its next home game at 4 p.m. Sunday 18 at the Elida Fieldhouse. See here down the full 2011-12 roster of the Explosion team

Bryant AUSTIN F 6-6 Indiana Tech
Jamar BUTLER G 6-1 Ohio State
Kyle GILLETTE C 6-8 Northwestern Ohio
James HICKS F 6-7 Indiana Tech
DeAngelo JORDAN G/F 6-7 Tiffin
Clyde McKINNEY G 5-11 Indiana Tech
Kyle MEYER F 6-6 Ohio Northern
B.J. REED F/C 6-7 Ashland
Geoff REEDER F 6-7 Northwestern Ohio
Adam STOLLY G 5-11 Capital
Willie TISDALE G 5-8 Cameron
Greg TYSON G 6-5 Heidelberg

Team President/GM: John Bell
Vice President: John Baylor
Head Coach: Quincy Simpson

Standings
ABA Standings
 1. ABA-Canada 0-0
Atlantic South
 1. Athens R. 4-0
 2. Atlanta E. 3-0
 3. Heartland H. 2-0
 4. Atlanta Aliens 1-0
 5. Georgia G. 1-0
 6. Florida T. 0-0
 7. Orlando Kings 0-0
 8. Savannah Storm 0-0
 9. Seminole A. 0-0
 10. Tampa 0-0
 11. Columbus R. 0-1
 12. Jacksonville 0-1
 13. E.Point Jaguars 0-7
California NW
 1. Central Valley T. 5-2
 2. Seattle M. 4-0
 3. S.Francisco R. 4-1
 4. Bay Area M. 2-0
 5. Port City P. 2-0
 6. Richmond R. 2-3
 7. Modesto H. 1-0
 8. Alaska Q. 1-2
 9. California SK 0-0
 10. Chico Rage 0-0
 11. E.Bay Pitbulls 0-0
 12. Washington R. 0-0
 13. Sacramento H. 0-5
California South
 1. Arizona S. 9-2
 2. San Diego Sol 6-1
 3. San Diego S. 3-1
 4. LA Slam 2-6
 5. Riverside R. 1-1
 6. Las Vegas A. 0-2
 7. SoCal Swish 0-2
 8. Shizuoka G. 0-5
Colonial
 1. NoVa Wonders 4-4
 2. Richmond E. 3-1
 3. Lynchburg L. 1-0
 4. W.Virginia B. 1-1
 5. E.Kentucky En. 0-0
 6. Norfolk Sh. 0-0
 7. Seven Cities 0-0
 8. Portsmouth C. 0-2
Great Lake
 1. Chicago Steam 5-0
 2. Milwaukee B. 3-0
 3. Chi-Town B. 0-0
 4. Indy S. 0-0
 5. Midwest Flames 0-0
 6. Oshkosh 0-0
 7. Porter County P. 0-2
 8. Cleveland H. 0-3
Mid Atlantic
 1. Carolina C. 6-2
 2. Carolina Ch. 4-2
 3. East Carolina T. 4-4
 4. Nashville S. 3-0
 5. South Calif. W. 2-0
 6. Tennessee MH 1-4
 7. Fayetteville F. 1-6
 8. Clarksville C. 0-2
 9. Carolina J. 0-3
Mid Central
 1. Lima Explosion 3-0
 2. Greencastle GK 2-0
 3. Indianapolis 2-0
 4. Dayton G. 0-0
 5. Detroit Hoops 0-0
 6. Flint Fire 0-0
 7. Lansing L. 0-0
 8. Michiana M. 0-2
Northeast
 1. Connecticut T. 3-0
 2. Jersey Expr. 2-2
 3. Island Vipers 1-2
 4. Conn. Chill 0-0
 5. NY Red Riders 0-0
 6. Rochester 0-0
 7. Syracuse SW 0-0
 8. New York Ch. 0-1
 9. NYC Thunder 0-1
Panhandle
 1. Gulf Coast F. 3-1
 2. Louisiana U.P. 0-0
 3. Mobile Bay H. 0-0
 4. Panama City D. 0-1
Rocky Mountain
 1. Colorado K. 10-0
 2. Colorado C. 4-4
 3. Crusaders 2-4
 4. Wyoming R. 0-4
South Central
 1. Bluff City R. 7-0
 2. Conway C. 7-2
 3. Little Rock L. 4-2
 4. St.Louis P. 0-0
 5. Missouri R. 0-3
 6. Delta S. 0-5
 7. N.E. Arkansas 0-5
South West
 1. North Dallas 6-1
 2. Texas Fuel 6-1
 3. Dallas Impact 1-3
 4. Oklahoma 1-4
 5. Houston R.S. 0-0
 6. N.Texas F. 0-0
 7. Team Havok 0-0
 8. West Texas W. 0-3
Touring Team
 1. Rocky Mountain S. 0-0
 2. Team Haiti 0-1
 3. West Virginia B. 0-1
 4. Appalachian R. 0-2
 5. Calgary C. 0-2
 6. Chicago F. 0-2


*****************************************************
  ACPBL   


Hartford Lightning roster - by Gianni Pascucci
See here down the full roster of the Hartford Lightning, currently leading the ACPBL North Division:

Charles EASTERLING G/F 6-2 Kilgore JC
Mike EVANOVICH F 6-8 Fairfield
Jeremy FREEMAN F/C 6-10 Rockvile HS (CT)
Corriche GASKIN G 6-3 Suffolk CC
Benjamin GRATE F 6-4 Weaver HS (CT)
Fred GRATE G 6-0 Columbia Coll.
John GREEN F 6-8 Northeastern
Aaron HALL G/F 6-3 C.W.Post
Diedrick KING F 6-6 ASA JC
Garrett KISSELL C 6-9 Vermont
Brian McKENZIE G/F 6-4 Providence
Jermel ROUNDTREE G 6-2 Barton County CC
Doug WIGGINS G 6-1 Mountain State
Nick WINBUSH F 6-7 Miami (OH)

Head Coach: Izzy Caro
Associate Head Coach: Malcolm Yelling



Doug Wiggins named ACPBL Player of the Week - by Gianni Pascucci
Doug Wiggins (6'1''-G-88), the former University of Connecticut guard and current Hartford Lightning point guard, has been named Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League player of the week.
He led his Hartford Lightning to a 140-119 win over the Toms River Shooters with 24 points, 10 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals while draining three long 3-point shots from well behind the NBA 3-point line.
Doug Wiggins will next be in action on Saturday December 17th in a Hartford Lightning home game vs. the Manhattan Pride, tip-off is slated for 7:00pm from the Sports and Medical Sciences Academy in the heart of Hartford.
For complete player stats league wide fans may visit www.acpbl.com and view box scores under the stats section of the website


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


Standings
Adriatic League Standings
 1. Maccabi T-A 9-1 
 2. Cedevita 9-2 
 3. Partizan 8-3 
 4. Buducnost 7-4 
 5. Cibona 7-4 
 6. Union Olimpija 7-4 
 7. KK Zagreb CO 6-5 
 8. Radnicki K. 5-6 
 9. Siroki WWin 5-7 
 10. Hemofarm 4-6 
 11. Krka 3-8 
 12. Crvena Zvezda 3-9 
 13. Helios 2-9 
 14. Zlatorog 2-9 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 David SIMON
  Radnicki K.
  (207-C-82)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Simon, Radnicki K.20.3 
 2. Scott, Radnicki K.18.1 
 3. Panic, Zlatorog17.5 
 4. Vucevic, Buducnost16.9 
 5. Pilepic, Siroki W.16.7 
 6. Simon, KK.16.0 
 7. Pavkovic, Radnicki15.5 
 8. Morrison, Crvena Z.15.5 
 9. Kasun, KK.15.3 
 10. Prepelic, Helios15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Boris SAVOVIC
  Hemofarm
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 13
 1. Savovic, Hemofarm13.0 
 2. Vucevic, Buducnost9.7 
 3. Simon, Radnicki K.8.0 
 4. Pasalic, Helios6.7 
 5. Scott, Radnicki K.6.0 
 6. Kasun, KK.6.0 
 7. Popovic, Crvena Z.5.6 
 8. Pavic, Krka5.6 
 9. May, KK.5.6 
 10. Simon, KK.5.5 
Assists Per Game
 Miljan PAVKOVIC
  Radnicki K.
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Pavkovic, Radnicki8.2 
 2. Markovic, Radnicki8.2 
 3. Farmar, Maccabi6.2 
 4. Vladovic, Siroki W.4.7 
 5. Stinson, Krka4.5 
 6. Vujasinovic, Zlato.4.5 
 7. Mulaomerovic, KK Z.4.4 
 8. Draper, Cedevita4.3 
 9. Papaloukas, Macca.4.0 
 10. Covic, Crvena Z.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Zoran DRAGIC
  Krka
  (196-F/G-89)
  Avg: 2
 1. Dragic, Krka2.0 
 2. Gay, Helios1.9 
 3. Ohayon, Maccabi1.8 
 4. Zubcic, Cibona1.8 
 5. Pilepic, Siroki W.1.7 
 6. Lucic, Partizan1.6 
 7. Salin, Union Olimp.1.5 
 8. Simon, KK.1.5 
 9. Markovic, Radnicki1.5 
 10. Draper, Cedevita1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 David SIMON
  Radnicki K.
  (207-C-82)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Simon, Radnicki K.1.2 
 2. Vucevic, Buducnost1.1 
 3. James, Maccabi T-A1.1 
 4. Scott, Radnicki K.1.0 
 5. Pekovic, Partizan0.8 
 6. Savovic, Hemofarm0.8 
 7. Hendrix, Maccabi0.8 
 8. Ilic, Crvena Zvezda0.7 
 9. Owens, Cedevita0.7 
 10. Jordan, Krka0.7 


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


LigaA Round 7 (second stage): Obras beat Penarol in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with derby games and favorites losing the games.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Buenos Aires. First ranked Obras faced 3rd placed Penarol. Host Obras (6-1) smashed guests from Mar del Plata (5-2) 96-73. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Penarol. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Obras. Penarol managed to win third quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Penarol's 32 and made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. 30 personal fouls committed by Penarol helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Guard Alejandro Konsztatd (190-G-89) fired 22 points, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. The former international power forward Tyler Field (206-78, college: San Diego) chipped in 16 points and 9 rebounds. International forward Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) produced 16 points for lost side. Penarol's coach Sergio Hernandez gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Obras maintains first place with 6-1 record, which they share with Sionista. Defending champion Penarol keeps the third position with two games lost. They share it with Libertad S.. Obras is looking forward to face Wuber-Est.Bahia (#7) in Bahia Blanca in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Penarol will play on the road against Club 9 (#12) in Rio Tercero and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Bottom-ranked San Martin Corrientes managed to get a second victory, breaking the series of two consecutive loses. This time newly promoted San Martin Corrientes won against eighth-ranked La Union 93-79. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Venezuelan forward Clarence Matthews (201-83, college: Tennessee St.) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 7 rebounds. William McFarlan contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. Naturalized Italian swingman Anibal Marin (199-82) answered with 19 points for La Union. San Martin Corrientes (2-5) moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with GECR Indalo. La Union at the other side keeps the eighth position with four games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. San Martin Corrientes' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Corrientes Regatas Corrientes.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Rio Tercero, where higher ranked Wuber-Est.Bahia (3-3) lost to thirteenth ranked Club 9 (3-4) in a road game 71-78 on Wednesday. It was a great evening for Jazwin Cowan who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side Jerome Meyinsse responded with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Club 9 moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Loser Wuber-Est.Bahia dropped to the seventh position with three games lost. Club 9 will meet at home higher ranked Penarol (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Wuber-Est.Bahia will play against the league's leader Obras (#1) having rather not much hope for a victory.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Parana. Local Sionista (6-1) outscored 9th ranked Regatas Corrientes (3-4) 90-59. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Regatas Corrientes. It was a quality performance for Matias Sandes who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Sionista keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Obras. Regatas Corrientes at the other side dropped to the eighth place with four games lost. Sionista's next round opponent will be La Union (#10) in Formosa and are hoping to win another game. Regatas Corrientes' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Corrientes to the arena San Martin Corrientes.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Buenos Aires: Lanus (#6) and Boca Juniors (#10). Boca Juniors was defeated at home 71-76 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Mariano Byro fired 17 points for the winners. Lanus' coach Silvio Jose Santander used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Lanus have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Quimsa. Loser Boca Juniors dropped to the eighth position with four games lost. Lanus will face Atenas (#11) in Cordoba in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Boca Juniors will play on the road against Libertad Sunchales.

Other games of round 7 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Olimpico LB was defeated by Lanus in Buenos Aires 77-71. Libertad S. beat GECR Indalo at home 89-73. Atenas won against Quilmes MP on the opponent's court 80-67. Quimsa outscored Boca Jrs in a home game 101-72.
The best stats of 7th round was 22 points and 8 assists by Maximiliano Stanic of Boca Jrs.

San Mart.C. - La Union 93-79

Bottom-ranked San Martin Corrientes managed to get a second victory, breaking the series of two consecutive loses. This time newly promoted San Martin Corrientes won against eighth-ranked La Union 93-79. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when San Martin Corrientes's pressure prevailed and they won that period 24-14 extending their advantage to 14 points. They made 21-of-26 charity shots (80.8 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Venezuelan forward Clarence Matthews (201-83, college: Tennessee St.) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 7 rebounds. American forward William McFarlan (201-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas, agency: Dream Team Management) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. Five San Martin Corrientes players scored in double figures. Naturalized Italian swingman Anibal Marin (199-82) answered with 19 points and guard Ariel Pau (186-84) added 21 points in the effort for La Union. San Martin Corrientes (2-5) moved-up to fourteenth place, which they share with GECR Indalo. La Union at the other side keeps the eighth position with four games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. San Martin Corrientes' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Corrientes Regatas Corrientes.
Top scorers:
La Union: A.Pau 21+1reb, A.Marin 19+3reb+2ast, G.Lewis 16+5reb+1ast, R.Wolkowyski 8+6reb+1ast, G.Mikulas 8+2reb+2ast, J.Smith 7+4reb+5ast
San Mart.C.: C.Matthews 25+7reb, W.McFarlan 18+6reb+1ast, A.Carabajal 13+2reb, A.Eslava 11+8reb+2ast, P.Albertinazzi 11+1reb+2ast, F.Ramirez 8+2reb+1ast
gschID: 141181


Lanus - Olimpico LB 77-71

There was no surprise in Buenos Aires where 11th ranked Olimpico de La Banda (2-4) was defeated by sixth ranked Lanus (4-3) 77-71 on Wednesday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Olimpico de La Banda trailed by 14 points after 3 quarters before a 26-18 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 71-77 at the end of the game. Lanus made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. The former international guard Mariano Byro (195-82) fired 15 points for the winners. Panamanian power forward Jamaal Levy (206-83, college: Wake Forest, agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 10 points and 8 rebounds. Five Lanus players scored in double figures. American forward John DeGroat (198-85, college: Pittsburgh) produced 27 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) and Panamanian power forward Jose Lloreda (201-80, college: LSU, agency: Paris Global Sports) added 11 points respectively for lost side. Lanus have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Quimsa. Loser Olimpico de La Banda dropped to the thirteenth position with four games lost. Lanus will face Atenas (#11) in Cordoba in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Olimpico de La Banda will play on the road against Quilmes MP in Mar del Plata.
Top scorers:
Olimpico LB: J.DeGroat 27+7reb, J.Lloreda 11+3reb+2ast, C.Romero 10+2reb+1ast, E.Villares 7, D.Brown 6+2reb, C.Amicucci 6+3reb
Lanus: M.Byro 15+1reb+2ast, N.Laprovittola 14+3ast, A.Boccia 12+2reb+2ast, J.Levy 10+8reb, T.Taylor 10+7reb+1ast, D.Guaita 6+2reb+2ast
gschID: 141182


Libertad S. - GECR Indalo 89-73

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Libertad Sunchales (5-2) defeated at home 12th ranked GECR Indalo (2-5) 89-73 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 48-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. American center Robert Battle (204-81, college: Drexel, agency: Dream Team Management) fired 16 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Guard Jonatan Treise (182-85) chipped in 13 points and 5 assists. Four Libertad Sunchales players scored in double figures. American forward Edward Nelson (203-82, college: Connecticut, agency: Dream Team Management) produced 18 points and 8 rebounds and the other American import forward Calvin Warner (201-80, college: Jacksonville) added 12 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. GECR Indalo's coach Marcelo Richotti rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Libertad Sunchales moved-up to third place, which they share with Penarol. Loser GECR Indalo dropped to the fourteenth position with five games lost. Libertad Sunchales will face Boca Juniors (#8) in Buenos Aires in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. GECR Indalo will play on the road against Quimsa (#5) in Santiado Estero.
Top scorers:
GECR Indalo: E.Nelson 18+8reb+1ast, C.McGowan 17+2reb, C.Warner 12+8reb, R.Gabini 9+1reb+1ast, D.Ciorciari 9+2reb+4ast, F.Mansilla 4+3reb
Libertad S.: R.Battle 16+7reb+2ast, J.Treise 13+2reb+5ast, A.Alloatti 12+6reb+1ast, S.Ginobili 11+2ast, J.Bucknor 11+3reb+2ast, J.Pittman 8+1ast
gschID: 141183


Club 9 - Wuber-Est.Bahia 78-71

We should mention about the upset which took place in Rio Tercero, where higher ranked Wuber-Est.Bahia (3-3) lost to thirteenth ranked Club 9 (3-4) in a road game 71-78 on Wednesday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-14. But Wuber-Est.Bahia won third quarter 27-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great evening for American power forward Jazwin Cowan (205-83, college: Hampton, agency: Dream Team Management) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 7 rebounds. The former international guard Diego Gerbaudo (182-89) helped adding 12 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Cowan is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Club 9 players scored in double figures. At the losing side American power forward Jerome Meyinsse (206-88, college: Virginia) responded with 20 points and 8 rebounds and American-Puerto Rican guard Javier Mojica (190-84, college: Cent.Conn.St., agency: Alti Sport) scored 22 points and 5 rebounds. Club 9 moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Loser Wuber-Est.Bahia dropped to the seventh position with three games lost. Club 9 will meet at home higher ranked Penarol (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Wuber-Est.Bahia will play against the league's leader Obras (#1) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Wuber-Est.Bahia: J.Mojica 22+5reb+1ast, J.Meyinsse 20+8reb+1ast, R.Sanchez 17+4reb+1ast, J.Espil 7+1reb, L.Faggiano 3+3reb, F.Aguerre 2+3reb
Club 9: J.Cowan 20+7reb+1ast, J.Ayarza 18+2reb, G.Luchino 15+5reb, D.Gerbaudo 12+7reb+6ast, P.Orlietti 5+5reb, K.Gamble 5+6reb
gschID: 141176


Sionista - Regatas C. 90-59

The game with biggest result difference took place in Parana. Local Sionista (6-1) outscored 9th ranked Regatas Corrientes (3-4) 90-59. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Regatas Corrientes. The game without a history. Sionista led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They outrebounded Regatas Corrientes 40-21 including a 29-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Sionista shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 60.0 percentage. It was a quality performance for the former international swingman Matias Sandes (201-84) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Puerto Rican guard Johwen Villegas (193-85, college: FIU) accounted for 23 points for the winning side. American center Djibril Kante (201-80, college: Indiana St.) came up with 14 points and naturalized Paraguayan guard Javier Martinez (189-78, agency: Dream Team Management) added 6 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Regatas Corrientes in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Sionista keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Obras. Regatas Corrientes at the other side dropped to the eighth place with four games lost. Sionista's next round opponent will be La Union (#10) in Formosa and are hoping to win another game. Regatas Corrientes' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Corrientes to the arena San Martin Corrientes.
Top scorers:
Regatas C.: D.Kante 14+3reb+1ast, P.Quinteros 9+1reb+4ast, J.Aprea 8+3reb, N.Romano 7+2reb, J.Martinez 6+5reb+3ast, R.Stanton 6+1reb+1ast
Sionista: J.Villegas 23+2reb+1ast, D.Hure 16+5reb, M.Sandes 14+11reb+2ast, N.Agasse 12+4ast, R.Iglesias 9+6reb+6ast, H.Rollins 8+9reb
gschID: 141177


Quilmes MP - Atenas 67-80

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 15th ranked Quilmes MP's (1-6) home loss to fourteenth ranked Atenas (3-4) 67-80 on Wednesday. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Atenas's pressure prevailed and they won that period 23-13 extending their advantage to 13 points. International guard Miguel Gerlero (192-88) fired 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. The former international guard Bruno Labaque (183-77, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. American swingman James Maye (201-81, college: NC-Greensboro) produced 14 points and 5 rebounds and naturalized American guard Phillip McHopson (188-87, college: Idaho) added 17 points respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Quilmes MP's coach Roberto Martinez rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Atenas have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Quilmes MP lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the bottom position with six games lost. Atenas will face higher ranked Lanus (#6) in Buenos Aires in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Quilmes MP will play at home against Olimpico de La Banda (#13).
Top scorers:
Quilmes MP: P.McHopson 17+4reb, J.Maye 14+5reb+3ast, A.Weigand 14+2reb, G.Sciutto 10+3reb+1ast, L.Truscott 8+10reb+1ast, N.Ferreyra 4+5ast
Atenas: M.Gerlero 17+6reb+5ast, B.Labaque 15+2reb+5ast, M.Melvin 14+5reb+1ast, M.Lescano 11+1reb+1ast, S.Clancy 8+9reb, J.Manuel Rivero 7+1reb
gschID: 141178


Quimsa - Boca Jrs 101-72

Everything could happen in Santiado Estero at the game between two tied teams. Both seventh ranked Quimsa and 10th ranked Boca Juniors had identical 3-3 record. This time Quimsa used a home court advantage and outscored the opponent from Buenos Aires 101-72 on Wednesday night. The game was mostly controlled by Quimsa. Boca Juniors was better in second period 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Quimsa dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Boca Juniors' 40. They outrebounded Boca Juniors 36-21 including 23 on the defensive glass. American power forward James Williams (204-79, college: Brown Mackie, agency: Dream Team Management) fired a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. American-Puerto Rican guard Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-84, college: VCU, agency: Paris Global Sports) chipped in 22 points. Five Quimsa players scored in double figures. American guard Larry OBannon (194-83, college: Louisville, agency: Interperformances) produced 16 points and 5 assists (made all of his eight free throws) and the other American import power forward Derrick Alston (208-72, college: Duquesne, agency: Priority Sports) added 13 points respectively for lost side. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Quimsa (4-3) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Lanus. Loser Boca Juniors dropped to the eighth position with four games lost. Quimsa will face GECR Indalo (#15) in Comodoro R. in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Boca Juniors will play on the road against Libertad Sunchales (#4).
Top scorers:
Boca Jrs: L.OBannon 16+2reb+5ast, D.Alston 13+4reb+1ast, J.Brussino 10+1reb, F.Martina 9+3reb, W.Graves 9+2reb, M.Fierro 5+5reb
Quimsa: J.Pellot-Rosa 22+4reb+2ast, J.Williams 15+12reb+2ast, D.Lo Grippo 15+2reb+2ast, D.Tintorelli 15+6reb, B.Robinson 13+6reb+3ast, C.Schattmann 9+3reb+1ast
gschID: 141179


Obras - Penarol 96-73

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Buenos Aires. First ranked Obras faced 3rd placed Penarol. Host Obras (6-1) smashed guests from Mar del Plata (5-2) 96-73. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Penarol. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Obras. Penarol managed to win third quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Penarol's 32 and made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. 30 personal fouls committed by Penarol helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Guard Alejandro Konsztatd (190-89) fired 22 points, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. The former international power forward Tyler Field (206-78, college: San Diego) chipped in 16 points and 9 rebounds. Four Obras players scored in double figures. International forward Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) produced 16 points and American guard Kyle Lamonte (191-84, college: William Carey) added 16 points respectively for lost side. Penarol's coach Sergio Hernandez gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Obras maintains first place with 6-1 record, which they share with Sionista. Defending champion Penarol keeps the third position with two games lost. They share it with Libertad S.. Obras is looking forward to face Wuber-Est.Bahia (#7) in Bahia Blanca in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. Penarol will play on the road against Club 9 (#12) in Rio Tercero and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Penarol: L.Gutierrez 16+4reb+3ast, K.Lamonte 16+4reb, M.Leiva 10+1reb, S.Safar 8+1reb+3ast, M.Mata 8+7reb+1ast, F.Campazzo 6+1reb
Obras: A.Konsztatd 22+6ast, T.Washam 19+4reb, T.Field 16+9reb+3ast, A.Elsener 11+9reb, J.Gutierrez 9+6reb+3ast, P.Espinoza 7+3reb+1ast
gschID: 141180


Round 6
Boca Jrs - Lanus 71-76

Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Buenos Aires: Lanus (#6) and Boca Juniors (#10). Boca Juniors was defeated at home 71-76 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 18-15. But Boca Juniors won second period 23-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Lanus won last quarter 23-19. The former international guard Mariano Byro (195-82) fired 17 points for the winners. International guard Nicolas Laprovittola (189-90) chipped in 16 points. Four Lanus players scored in double figures. Lanus' coach Silvio Jose Santander used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American power forward Derrick Alston (208-72, college: Duquesne, agency: Priority Sports) produced 19 points and 9 rebounds and the former international guard Maximiliano Stanic (178-78, agency: Players Group) added 19 points respectively for lost side. Lanus have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Quimsa. Loser Boca Juniors dropped to the eighth position with four games lost. Lanus will face Atenas (#11) in Cordoba in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Boca Juniors will play on the road against Libertad Sunchales.
Top scorers:
Boca Jrs: D.Alston 19+9reb+2ast, M.Stanic 19+3reb+3ast, L.OBannon 10+2reb+3ast, J.Brussino 9+1reb+1ast, W.Graves 7+6reb+1ast, F.Martina 3+3reb
Lanus: M.Byro 17+2reb+1ast, N.Laprovittola 16+2reb+1ast, C.Hayes 12+3reb, T.Taylor 11+7reb, J.Levy 8+8reb, A.Boccia 5+3reb+4ast
gschID: 165287




Tyler Field claims LigaA weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced naturalized American power forward Tyler Field (206-F/C-78) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Obras and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7 (Second Stage).
The 33-year old power forward had the game-high 16 points adding nine rebounds and three assists for Obras in his team's victory, helping them to crush Penarol (#3, 5-2) with 23-point margin 96-73. It allowed Obras to consolidate first place in the American LigaA. Obras have a solid 6-1 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Field as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Tyler Field averages this season 7.1ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 23-year old former international guard Miguel Gerlero (192-G-88) of Atenas. Gerlero impressed basketball fans with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Of course he lead Atenas to another comfortable win 80-67 over the lower-ranked Quilmes MP (#16, 1-6) being unquestionably team leader. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the top position in . But Atenas managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 11th place. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-4 record. Gerlero is well-known by Atenas fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American John DeGroat (198-F-85) of Olimpico LB (#13). DeGroat scored 27 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Despite DeGroat's great performance Olimpico LB lost 71-77 to the higher-ranked Lanus (#6, 4-3). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Olimpico LB not to end season at such low position in , however are less than slim as they have already lost 4 games, recording just two victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, DeGroat could try to bring Olimpico LB's a little bit higher in the standings. DeGroat has a very solid season. In 6 games in Argentina he scored 17.2ppg. He also has 6.5rpg, FGP: 55.3% and 3PT: 50.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Clarence Matthews (201-F-83) of San Mart.C. - 25 points and 7 rebounds
5. James Williams (204-F/C-79) of Quimsa - 15 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Matias Sandes (201-F/G-84) of Sionista - 14 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Jerome Meyinsse (206-F/C-88) of Wuber-Est.Bahia - 20 points and 8 rebounds
8. Derrick Alston (208-C/F-72) of Boca Jrs - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Alejandro Konsztatd (190-G-89) of Obras - 22 points and 6 assists
10. Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-G-84) of Quimsa - 22 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists

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

Standings - LigaA
LigaA Standings
 1. Obras 6-1 
 2. Sionista 6-1 
 3. Penarol 5-2 
 4. Libertad S. 5-2 
 5. Quimsa 4-3 
 6. Lanus 4-3 
 7. Wuber-Est.Bahia 3-3 
 8. Boca Jrs 3-4 
 9. Regatas C. 3-4 
 10. La Union 3-4 
 11. Atenas 3-4 
 12. Club 9 3-4 
 13. Olimpico LB 2-4 
 14. San Mart.C. 2-5 
 15. GECR Indalo 2-5 
 16. Quilmes MP 1-6 


Stats Leaders - LigaA
Points Per Game
 Joe SMITH
  La Union
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Smith, La Union18.8 
 2. McHopson, Quilm.18.3 
 3. Meyinsse, Wuber-.18.2 
 4. Villegas, Sionista17.5 
 5. Gutierrez, Obras17.4 
 6. OBannon, Boca Jrs16.1 
 7. Mojica, Wuber-Es.16.1 
 8. Quinteros, Regat.15.9 
 9. Gutierrez, Penarol15.8 
 10. Roe, Regatas C.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Matias SANDES
  Sionista
  (201-F/G-84)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Sandes, Sionista9.7 
 2. Garces, Atenas9.4 
 3. Gutierrez, Obras9.0 
 4. Lloreda, Olimpico.8.9 
 5. Battle, Libertad S.8.6 
 6. Truscott, Quilm.8.4 
 7. Meyinsse, Wuber-.7.6 
 8. Mikulas, La Union7.6 
 9. McFarlan, San M.7.3 
 10. Williams, Quimsa7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Facundo CAMPAZZO
  Penarol
  (180-G-91)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Campazzo, Penarol6.8 
 2. Sanchez, Wuber-.6.7 
 3. Stanic, Boca Jrs5.9 
 4. Martinez, Regat.5.6 
 5. Cequeira, Sionista5.5 
 6. Sucatzky, Atenas4.2 
 7. Victoriano, San M.4.2 
 8. Smith, La Union3.7 
 9. Quinteros, Regat.3.4 
 10. McHopson, Quilm.3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Matias LESCANO
  Atenas
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Lescano, Atenas2.1 
 2. McHopson, Quilm.2.1 
 3. Campazzo, Penarol2.0 
 4. Sanchez, Wuber-.1.8 
 5. Beitzel, San M.1.6 
 6. Funes, GECR I.1.5 
 7. Stanic, Boca Jrs1.5 
 8. Washam, Obras1.5 
 9. Mojica, Wuber-Es.1.5 
 10. Battle, Libertad1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Josimar AYARZA
  Club 9
  (205-F-87)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Ayarza, Club 91.2 
 2. Roe, Regatas C.1.2 
 3. Battle, Libertad S.1.2 
 4. Gutierrez, Obras1.0 
 5. Rollins, San M.0.9 
 6. Garces, Atenas0.9 
 7. Meyinsse, Wuber-.0.8 
 8. Sanchez, Wuber-.0.8 
 9. Williams, Quimsa0.7 
 10. Aguerre, Wuber-.0.7 


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


Life Down Under! - by Jamar Wilson
Whadup basketball world. My name is Jamar Wilson and i will blog as much as possible on the ins and out of my life down under. I am currently playing for the Skytrans Cairns Taipans in the lovely tropics. Im playing in one of the smaller markets in Australia in a people stand point, but i believe we have the most loyal fans. Shouts to the OrangeArmy for the support. Cairns is a beautiful place. Its a tourism hot spot with the Great Barrier Reef in its back yard. The weather is hot all year round and the people seem to be real kind and keen on helping when they can. The Skytrans Cairns Taipans is a community driven team. The community as a whole owns the club (similar to the Green Bay Packers). It is a great thing in sports because it shows a little more stability economically. Community driven clubs seems to be more passionate about the team thats being prortrayed as a whole instead of thinking of the profits and losses. Our team often gets out in the community to give back to the hand that feeds us.
The league has been great to be apart of also. It is a professional league that does everything by the book. Apart from having to fly to every away game, i enjoy being able to live out my bucket-list by traveling to many major cities in Australia and Auckland, New Zealand.
The only thing i cant get use too is a hot Christmas. I am struggling being away from the Family and not having a white Christmas. Im from New York, im use to walking the streets and having people bump into me as they trot by to get their Christmas shopping done. This year i went Christmas shopping in swimming trunks and tried to get it done as quick as possible because its so hot you cant think.
If anyone is looking to travel down here it would be wise to bring an Australian Dictionary. Aussies talk in Fast Forward, they also have a nickname for everything. I still dont understand how some people nicknames are longer than their actual names lol. Makes no sense but thats the Aussie way MATE!
Thats all i have for now, keep a look out for them Taipans. We trying to show people how Five fingers working simultaneously on one hand is better than using one index finger to do the pointing!

Jamar
@jaydubbs5


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Breakers 10-3 
 2. Wildcats 8-4 
 3. Tigers 6-6 
 4. Taipans 6-6 
 5. Kings 6-7 
 6. Crocodiles 5-4 
 7. Blaze 4-5 
 8. 36ers 4-8 
 9. Hawks 3-9 


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Cameron TRAGARDH
  Tigers
  (209-C/F-83)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Tragardh, Tigers19.3 
 2. Khazzouh, Kings18.6 
 3. Mills, Tigers18.6 
 4. Wilkinson, Breakers17.2 
 5. Lisch, Wildcats17.2 
 6. Wilson, Taipans16.9 
 7. Deleon, Blaze16.8 
 8. Warren, 36ers16.4 
 9. Johnson, 36ers16.3 
 10. Simpsons, 36ers16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Khazzouh, Kings11.0 
 2. Holmes, Crocodiles9.7 
 3. Simpsons, 36ers8.7 
 4. Crosswhite, Taipa.8.4 
 5. Grant, Kings7.9 
 6. Johnson, 36ers7.6 
 7. Rychart, Taipans7.5 
 8. Greer, Tigers6.8 
 9. Vukona, Breakers6.8 
 10. Worthington, Blaze6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Jackson, Breakers6.1 
 2. Gibson, Blaze5.0 
 3. Bruce, Kings5.0 
 4. Mills, Tigers5.0 
 5. Crosswell, 36ers4.7 
 6. Gill, Crocodiles4.2 
 7. Martin, Wildcats4.0 
 8. Martin, Hawks3.9 
 9. Redhage, Wildcats3.4 
 10. Warren, 36ers3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Jackson, Breakers2.5 
 2. Martin, Wildcats2.3 
 3. Robbins, Wildcats2.0 
 4. Mims, Crocodiles1.8 
 5. Gibson, Blaze1.6 
 6. Tovey, Wildcats1.4 
 7. Gill, Crocodiles1.3 
 8. Worthington, Blaze1.2 
 9. Lisch, Wildcats1.2 
 10. Deleon, Blaze1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Khazzouh, Kings2.1 
 2. Grant, Kings1.5 
 3. Simpsons, 36ers1.5 
 4. Worthington, Blaze1.4 
 5. Johnson, 36ers1.4 
 6. Martin, Wildcats1.3 
 7. Knight, Wildcats1.0 
 8. Crosswhite, Taipa.0.9 
 9. Nevill, Wildcats0.9 
 10. Abercrombie, Brea.0.9 


*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


Standings - A Bundesliga
A Bundesliga Standings
 1. Gmunden 10-2 
 2. Klosterneub. 10-2 
 3. Wels 8-3 
 4. Oberwart 8-4 
 5. Kapfenberg 8-4 
 6. Gussing 6-7 
 7. BC Vienna 5-7 
 8. Furstenfeld 4-8 
 9. UBSC Graz 4-9 
 10. Arkadia 3-9 
 11. St.Polten 0-11 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.7
 1. Stazic, BC Vienna26.7 
 2. Wade, Arkadia24.4 
 3. Booker, St.Polten23.0 
 4. Reed, Oberwart21.9 
 5. Shavies, Furstenf.19.0 
 6. Djuric, Gussing19.0 
 7. Drenovac, Arkadia18.9 
 8. Bobb, Klosterneub.18.1 
 9. Rakocevic, BC Vi.17.6 
 10. Brown, Wels17.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.8
 1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.13.8 
 2. Werner, Wels9.2 
 3. Skurdauskas, Arkad.7.8 
 4. Reed, Oberwart7.8 
 5. Oppland, Gmunden7.7 
 6. Suljanovic, Kloste.7.3 
 7. Ware, Furstenfeld6.8 
 8. Nelson, Kapfenberg6.5 
 9. Trmal, St.Polten6.4 
 10. Bakovic, St.Polten6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Fears, Kapfenberg5.8 
 2. Schreiner, Kapfe.5.2 
 3. Klepeisz, Gussing5.1 
 4. Danek, Arkadia5.0 
 5. Lanegger, Klostern.4.9 
 6. Shavies, Furstenf.4.8 
 7. Stazic, BC Vienna4.8 
 8. Rakocevic, BC Vi.4.6 
 9. Curry, Gmunden4.4 
 10. Schaal, UBSC G.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Quentin PRYOR
  Wels
  (193-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Pryor, Wels2.5 
 2. Shavies, Furstenf.2.3 
 3. Fears, Kapfenberg2.3 
 4. Schreiner, Kapfe.1.9 
 5. Brown, Wels1.9 
 6. Scott, Gussing1.7 
 7. Arnold, Gmunden1.6 
 8. Koch, Gussing1.6 
 9. Wade, Arkadia1.5 
 10. Stazic, BC Vienna1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.3.2 
 2. Ware, Furstenfeld1.2 
 3. Skurdauskas, Arkad.0.8 
 4. Brown, Wels0.8 
 5. Scott, Gussing0.7 
 6. Francois, BC Vienna0.7 
 7. Greimeister, Klost.0.6 
 8. Shaw, Oberwart0.6 
 9. Sallomon, Klostern.0.5 
 10. Werner, Wels0.5 


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


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


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


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


*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Fifth straight loss for Zrinjski in BIBL - by Eurobasket News
Zrinjski HT - Hapoel T-A 67-85

First games of the Balkan league - Round Five - were played this week. Bosnian team Zrinjski HT stay winless as they faced with the fifth straight loss. This time Zrinjski failed against Hapoel Tel-Aviv at home 67-85. The game was mostly controlled by Hapoel Tel-Aviv. Zrinjski HT was better in second period 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hapoel Tel-Aviv dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Zrinjski HT's 36. American point guard Demontez Stitt (186-PG-89, college: Clemson) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. His fellow American import Curtis Kelly (205-PF-88, college: Kansas St.) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Almir Hasandic (190-SG-90) answered with 26 points (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) and American forward Marcel Jones (203-F-85, agency: David Lee services, college: Oregon St.) added 10 points and 16 rebounds in the effort for Zrinjski HT. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Hapoel Tel-Aviv maintains second place in Group B with 4-1 record behind leader Galil Gilboa. Zrinjski HT lost their fifth game in a row. They still close the standings with five games lost. Hapoel Tel-Aviv's next round opponent will be Napredak Rubin (#4) in Krusevac. Zrinjski HT will play at home against the league's leader Levski Sofia and hopes to get finally their first victory. Both teams will take a rest until January 18.

Zrinjski HT: A.Hasandic 26+2reb, A.Avdibegovic 14+1reb+4ast, A.Radulovic 13+8reb+1ast, M.Jones 10+16reb+2ast, L.Klarica 2+4reb+3ast, D.Kapelan 2+2reb+2ast
Hapoel T-A: C.Kelly 18+6reb, D.Stitt 15+7reb+7ast, M.Naor 12+6reb+3ast, C.Carr 11+7reb+1ast, B.Timor 9+1reb+1ast, J.Skjoldebrand 8+5reb

Nedzad Sinanovic will play for BIH! - by Nedzad Kladusak
It s sounds incredible but KSBIH and Nedzad Sinanovic (221-C-83) both confirmed that Nedzad Sinanovic will reinforce the BIH NT!
He is one of the most sounding names that has been on the shortlist of KSBIH and after the recent EC in Lithuania it became evident how much BIH needs such a player like the Zavidovici native Sinanovic.
Over the last couple of years Sinanovic evolved not only to a intimidating asset on the defensive end but added only a nice offensive skillset which make of him him one on the best center in Europe.
Sinanovic started his career in Zenica Celik and played since then for Pepinster, Cologne 99ers and Unicaja Malaga.

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


Pinheiros/Sky climb on top of NBB ladder - by Eurobasket News
Pinheiros/Sky recorded their seventh win in the NBB season. They overcame Uniceub/BRB 70:68 at home court to climb on top of the ladder at 7-1 record. The Paulista League champions trailed for the bigger part of the game before igniting a 23:12 run in the fourth period and claiming the victory. Bruno Fiorotto (208-C-84) and Shamell Stallworth (196-SG-80, agency: Interperformances, college: USF) nailed 12 points each to lead the winners. Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) added 10 points in the win. Alex Ribeiro (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) responded with 16 points for Uniceub/BRB. Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) accounted for 18 points in the fourth loss for the visitors. Itabom/Bauru returned to winning ways beating Winner/Limeira 75:69 on the road. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) provided 19 points to lead the charge. Douglas Nunes (201-C-87) added 18 points for the visitors. Arlindo Neto (187-G-86) had 14 points in the loss.
Uberlandia registered the seventh win as they overcame Sao Jose/Vinac 97:94 at home court. Sao Jose/Vinac led by two points 53:51 at halftime but Uberlandia turned things around in the fourth period triggering a 25:16 run and celebrating a comfortable win at the end. Robby Collum (185-G-81, college: W.Michigan) notched 23 points for Uberlandia. Robert Day (197-F-82, college: W.Oregon) added 19 points in the victory. Murilo Becker (210-C/F-83) responded with 29 points for Sao Jose/Vinac.


Standings - BNL
NBB Standings
 1. Pinheiros/Sky 7-1 
 2. Flamengo 7-1 
 3. Unitri/Universo 7-2 
 4. Itabom/Bauru 6-2 
 5. Paulistano 6-2 
 6. S.Jose/Unimed 5-3 
 7. Uniceub/BRB 5-4 
 8. Liga Sorocaba 4-4 
 9. Cia do Terno 3-5 
 10. Winner/Limeira 3-5 
 11. Tijuca TC 3-6 
 12. Minas 3-6 
 13. Vivo/Franca 3-6 
 14. Vila Velha 1-8 
 15. Araraquara 0-8 


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


No further signings for Lukoil, injured Stojanovski to miss ASVEL clash - by Maria Mitzova
There wont be new arrivals in Lukoil Academik Sofia before the last Eurocup Regular Season game at ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket. Head coach Jovica Arsic stated that he has all the players he need, to get a win in France. Those players already showed they can get the job done, so I believe they can do it again, said Arsic after his team won 10th game in a row in Bulgarian National Basketball League 91:67 to Rilski Sportist Samokov.
We learnt from our mistakes and we know that we need to play better defense, for 40 minutes, if we want that Top 16 spot.
I can assure you, there will be no new players on the team until Tuesday. We will see what happens next and maybe then will search for something else.
Macedonian guard Damjan Stojanovski (197-F-87) will not play in France, kept out of todays game with eye injury from Oostende clash last Tuesday. Best case scenario, he will be out for a fortnight.
Good news for Arsic were the good plays by his team vs Rilski Sportist Samokov, sharp three-point shooting, and nice performance by the Bulgarians on his roster Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90, agency: Interperformances) and Veselin Veselinov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Virginia St.) coming in with 15 and 12 points in the game respectively.
Lukoil Academik Sofia leaves for France on Monday, at noon.


Aaron Harper: I just want to win - by Maria Mitzova
Aaron Harper (199-G/F-81, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Mississippi) is the Player of the month for November in Bulgarian National Basketball, having the highest rating amongst his opponents on the court. Third year in the team of Levski Sofia, the guard spoke about the long road ahead this season, his only desire to win, and the critics.
I want to thank God, my teammates and my coach, for putting me in a position to win this award. We are playing OK basketball so far this season. We are experienced; we just need to find our identity. We have ambitions and want to win. We are not still on the right track, but we will get there, and play better.
Lukoil is doing what it has to do. They won in Pravets, but it was a shocking loss here in Sofia. They are a good team, with quality players. Their advantage is playing in the Eurocup.
I came back to Bulgaria, to win a championship. Its still December, and everything is still ahead in time.
Some people might say I am not the same player any more, but I look at things the same way as before. We have completely different team now, and we just need to find our way through that. I am not bothered to score less, because the only thing that matters, is winning.


Harper's stats so far in the season with Levski



Levski downs BIBL champions in thriller - by Eurobasket News
Levski Sofia - Feni Indistrija 67-66

Levski Sofia did a great job against the reigning BIBL champion Feni Industri on Thursday night. The Bulgarian squad grabbed 67-66 thriller win and it ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Feni Indistrija. Levski outrebounded Feni Indistrija 42-30 including 30 rebs on the defensive glass. Marcus Hall (185-G-85, college: Colorado) scored 20 points for the winners, while Vasil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) added 9 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists. Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) responded with 21 points and power forward Kiril Nikolovski (210-C/F-88) scored 10 points and 9 rebounds. Feni Indistrija's coach Emil Rajkovic tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
*In thriller finish, Vasil Evtimov was fouled and made only one free-throw - 65:62, before Sasa Ocokoljic (183-PG-76, agency: BeoExcell) made both attempts, reducing the difference to one point - 65:64. Marcus Hall was perfect - 2/2 from the charity stripe 11 second before the end - 67:64, but Ocokoljic once again was faultless on the other side - 67:66. Marcus Hall missed two free-throws after that, but Ivan Lilov also missed a three-point shot and the final score was settled at 67:66. *Courtesy of BIBL
Levski Sofia have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place in Group B with 5-0 record. Defending FYR Macedonian champion Feni Indistrija keeps the third position with two games lost. Levski Sofia are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Zrinjski HT (#6) in Mostar in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Feni Indistrija will play at home against Ulcinj and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Both teams will take a rest until January 18.

Feni Indistrija: I.Lilov 21+4reb+1ast, K.Nikolovski 10+9reb, J.Frye 9+4reb+2ast, D.Knezevic 6+4reb, D.Sokolov 4+1reb, M.Gjurov 4+1reb+1ast
Levski Sofia: M.Hall 20+2reb+3ast, H.Dimitrov 15+5reb+1ast, A.Harper 11+6reb+2ast, V.Evtimov 9+15reb+4ast, D.Anguelov 9+4reb+1ast, J.Eller 3+6reb

Standings A1
NBL Standings
 1. Lukoil Academik 10-0 
 2. Levski Sofia 7-2 
 3. Rilski Sportist 6-4 
 4. Cherno More 5-4 
 5. Tundja Yambol 4-5 
 6. Balkan 3-6 
 7. Chernomorets 1-8 
 8. Spartak Pleven 1-8 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Martin DURCHEV
  Tundja Y.
  (200-G-87)
  Avg: 20.6
 1. Durchev, Tundja Y.20.6 
 2. Harper, Levski S.18.8 
 3. Yanev, Cherno More18.1 
 4. Vukosavljevi., Ril.16.3 
 5. Stankov, Spartak14.9 
 6. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.14.9 
 7. Hall, Levski Sofia14.8 
 8. Tsenov, Spartak14.3 
 9. Slaveykov, Sparta.14.3 
 10. Dunovic, Chernomo.14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Vasil EVTIMOV
  Levski Sofia
  (207-C/F-77)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Evtimov, Levski So.10.6 
 2. Yanev, Cherno More10.1 
 3. Pavlovski, Chernom.9.2 
 4. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.8.2 
 5. Vukosavljevi., Ril.7.3 
 6. Slaveykov, Sparta.7.2 
 7. Petkov, Tundja Y.6.8 
 8. Todorov, Spartak6.2 
 9. Crawford, Balkan6.2 
 10. Stankov, Spartak5.5 
Assists Per Game
 Julian RADIONOV
  Tundja Y.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Radionov, Tundja Y.6.2 
 2. Heath, Lukoil A.5.2 
 3. Dyakovski, Sparta.5.0 
 4. Mirkovic, Rilski S.4.9 
 5. Filipov, Balkan3.9 
 6. Aleksiev, Cherno M.3.9 
 7. Zhelev, Cherno M.3.2 
 8. Govedarov, Tundja3.2 
 9. Gruev, Levski Sofia3.0 
 10. Dunovic, Chernomo.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Julian RADIONOV
  Tundja Y.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 3
 1. Radionov, Tundja Y.3.0 
 2. Roshmanov, Cherno.2.7 
 3. Heath, Lukoil A.2.7 
 4. Durchev, Tundja Y.2.0 
 5. Dimitrov, Levski S.1.9 
 6. Zhelev, Cherno M.1.9 
 7. Mirkovic, Rilski S.1.9 
 8. Dunovic, Chernomo.1.9 
 9. Velikov, Rilski S.1.8 
 10. Boev, Rilski Spor.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Josh CRAWFORD
  Balkan
  (211-C-88)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Crawford, Balkan1.4 
 2. Mijajlovic, Rilski1.3 
 3. Pavlovski, Chernom.1.1 
 4. Martin, Balkan0.9 
 5. Ofoegbu, Tundja Y.0.9 
 6. Banev, Lukoil A.0.9 
 7. Petkov, Tundja Y.0.7 
 8. Gocevski, Tundja Y.0.7 
 9. Eller, Levski Sofia0.5 
 10. Sundov, Lukoil A.0.5 


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


Morgan Lewis return set for December 22 - by Eurobasket News
The Oshawa Power are excited to announce that NBL Canada number one overall draft pick Morgan Lewis (6'4''-F-87, college: Findlay, OH) has been cleared to play and will be back in the lineup on Thursday December 22 at the GM Centre for a warm welcome celebration when the Power take on the Summerside Storm. 10 lucky Power fans will receive a large autographed poster of Lewis in action.

'We're really happy to have Morgan back,' said Gary Durrant, President of Basketball Operations. 'He's been a true leader for us on and off the court.'

Lewis was injured in a hard fall suffered against the London Lighting on November 18.

He suffered some serious injuries including broken teeth, broken bones and needed stitches. Lewis was under the care of team physician Dr. Joel Kerr and also saw outside medical specialists who gave the green light for him to resume action next Thursday.

Next up for the Power is a game vs. the Quebec Kebs at 7:30 p.m. tonight at Laval University. The Power will battle the Halifax Rainmen on Sunday December 18 at 2:00 p.m. and then the Moncton Miracles on Monday December 19 at 7:00 p.m. to conclude the team's three-game road trip.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Canton Charge sign Trent Strickland, waive Tyrone Kent - by Eurobasket News
Trent Strickland (6'5''-G-84, college: Wake Forest), a 6-foot-5 veteran of the Belgian League, has been signed by the Canton Charge of the NBA Development League.

The Charge have waived guard/forward Tyrone Kent (6'5''-G/F-86, college: Toledo).

Strickland, 27, spent the last two seasons playing for the Antwerp Giants of the Belgian League. During the 2010-11 season, he played in 15 games and averaged 7.5 points on .440 shooting, 3.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.1 steals in 22.3 minutes per game. In 2009-10 with Antwerp, he played in 15 games and averaged 22.6 minutes, 9.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, 0.5 assists and 1.3 steals.

Prior to joining Antwerp, Strickland spent two seasons with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA Development League. During the 2008-09 season, he started 50 games, averaging 17.5 points on .446 shooting, 6.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.0 steal in 31.1 minutes per game.

During the 2007-08 season, Strickland played in 47 games (29 starts) for the Vipers, averaging 12.9 points on .431 shooting, 5.7 rebounds, 0.7 assists and 0.7 steals in 26.1 minutes per game.

While at Wake Forest University, Strickland played in 126 games. In hiis senior season in 2006, he played in 33 games (31 starts), averaging 11.6 points on .482 shooting, 6.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 0.7 steals in 32.3 minutes per game.

The 6-5 Kent appeared in seven games for the Charge this season, averaging 5.0 points, 2.3 rebounds and 0.6 assists. He was drafted by Canton in the fifth round (78th overall) of the 2011 NBA Development League Draft.

Courtesy of www.cantonrep.com

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  CHINA   


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


Stats Leaders - CBA
Points Per Game
 Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 35.7
 1. Hudson, Qingdao DS35.7 
 2. Smith, Zhejiang C.34.1 
 3. Chandler, Guangsha.28.4 
 4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.27.9 
 5. Mills, Xinjiang.27.9 
 6. Williams, Shanxi Z.27.9 
 7. Green, Foshan26.5 
 8. McDonald, Fujian X.26.3 
 9. Akognon, DongGuan.25.2 
 10. Martin, Jilin N.25.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Zaid ABBAS
  Fujian XX
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 15.6
 1. Abbas, Fujian XX15.6 
 2. Hunter, Shandong13.9 
 3. Ramos, Guangsha L.13.3 
 4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.13.3 
 5. Harvey, TianJin R.13.2 
 6. Gadzuric, Jiang.13.1 
 7. Chandler, Guangsha.12.9 
 8. Randolph, DongGua.12.7 
 9. Harris, Shanghai S.12.5 
 10. Harrison, TianJ.11.3 
Assists Per Game
 Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Daghles, Jilin N.8.1 
 2. Mengke, Xinjiang.6.6 
 3. Hudson, Qingdao DS5.9 
 4. Marbury, Beijing5.6 
 5. Brooks, Guandong5.4 
 6. Collins, Jiangsu D.5.3 
 7. Anderson, Shandon.5.3 
 8. Zhang, Liaoning H.5.0 
 9. Williams, Shanxi Z.4.8 
 10. Lee, Beijing Ducks4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Hudson, Qingdao DS3.4 
 2. Hu, Jiangsu D.3.2 
 3. Daghles, Jilin N.3.0 
 4. Lee, Beijing Ducks2.9 
 5. Smith, Zhejiang C.2.8 
 6. Collins, Jiangsu D.2.8 
 7. Mills, Xinjiang.2.6 
 8. Zhang, Bayi Fubang2.5 
 9. Marbury, Beijing2.4 
 10. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Dan GADZURIC
  Jiang.
  (211-C-78)
  Avg: 2
 1. Gadzuric, Jiang.2.0 
 2. Zhang, Shanghai S.2.0 
 3. Xu, Bayi Fubang1.9 
 4. Douthit, Foshan1.8 
 5. Randolph, DongGua.1.7 
 6. Boone, Zhejiang C.1.5 
 7. Carney, Liaoning H.1.5 
 8. Li, Liaoning H.1.4 
 9. Ramos, Guangsha L.1.3 
 10. Han, Liaoning H.1.2 


Beijing Wins Eleventh Straight - by Arthur Volbert
Marbury Stephon (187-G-77, college: Georgia Tech) had 35 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists as Beijing won its eleventh straight game, defeating Tianjin 107-101. 209 cm rookie Zhu Yanxi, returning from injury, had a stellar perfomance with 26 points on 12 of 14 shooting and 11 rebounds. Randolph Morris had 21 points and 10 rebounds. Zhai Xiaochuan had 6 points and 9 rebounds. Donnell Harvey had 26 points and 15 rebounds for Tianjin. David Harrison had 20 points and 13 rebounds. Rony Fahed had 13 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Zhang Nan and Zhang Zhihan each scored 12.

Guangdong had a bye this round, and the next three teams in the league Zhejiang, Xinjiang and Shanxi, all lost.

Shandong blasted Zhejiang 107-94. Allan Anderson had 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Othello Hunter had 25 points and 10 rebounds. Wu Ke had 17 points and 5 rebounds. Wang Ruheng had 14 points and 4 rebounds. Sun Jie had 9 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists. Liu Jiulong scored 8. Sui Ran did not play. J. R. Smith had 41 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for Zhejiang. Josh Boone had 16 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Ding Jinhui had 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Ju Peng had 9 points and 3 rebounds. Cao Fei had 7 points and 3 rebounds.

Wilson Chandler had 31 points and 13 rebounds as Zhejiang Guangsha beat Xinjiang 102-92. Peter John Ramos had 14 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. Jin Lipeng had 18 points and 4 rebounds. Wang Bo had 11 points and 4 rebounds. Zhang Yongpeng and Lin Chih-Chieh each scored 10. Patrick Mills had 39 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 6 steals for Xinjiang. But Kenyon Martin had another disappointing performance with 8 points on 4 of 11 shooting along with 7 rebounds and 1 assist. Xu Guozhong scored 17. Xirelijiang had 10 points and 6 rebounds. Mengke Bateer had 8 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists.

Michael Harris had 30 points and 11 rebounds as Shanghai edged Shanxi 92-90. Zhang Zhaoxu, who appears to be developing into a true national team caliber center, had 15 points and 11 rebounds. Ryan Forehan-Kelly and Meng Lingyuan each scored 10. Feng Tian had 9 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Marcus Williams had 31 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for Shanxi. Charles Gaines had 21 points and 13 rebounds. Duan Jiangpeng had 11 points and 4 rebounds. Lv Xiaoming had 9 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. U-19 star Yan Pengfei had 6 points and 5 rebounds in 18 minutes.

Dongguan blew out Liaoning 117-95. Shavlik Randolph had 32 points and 10 rebounds. Josh Akognon had 28 points and 6 assists. Qiu Biao scored 21 and Zhang Kai had 13. Feng Qi had 9 points and 4 rebounds. Rodney Carney had 21 points for Liaoning. Josh Powell had 20 points and 10 rebounds. He Tianju had 14 points and 5 rebounds. Yang Ming had 10 points and 11 assists. Li Xiaoxu had 7 points and 9 rebounds.

Delehei had 25 points and 5 rebounds as Bayi edged Foshan 101-96. Wang Zhizhi had 22 points and 8 rebounds. Mo Ke had 17 points and 5 rebounds. Cao Yan scored 14 and Wang Zhongguan scored 8. Marcus Douthit had 28 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for Foshan. University graduate Zheng Lingxu scored 23. Marcus Haislip had 17 points and 5 rebounds. Zheng Zhun had 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Qingdao beat Jiangsu 103-86. Lester Hudson had 26 points and 8 assists. Sani Sakakini had 18 points and 11 rebounds. Liu Mingtao scored 18. Olumide Oyedeji had 15 points and 17 rebounds. Cai Liang had 8 points and 3 rebounds. Jackson Vroman had 27 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists for Jiangsu. Meng Da scored 23 and Yi Li scored 10. Liu Yahui had 7 points and 3 rebounds. Marcus Williams had 4 points on 1 of 10 shooting in 25 minutes.

Jilin defeated Fujian 90-82. Osama Daghlas had 27 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists and 6 steals. Jameel Watkins had 20 points and 7 rebounds. Cartier Martin had 20 points and 6 rebounds. Lu Wei had 8 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Yu Shulong had 6 points and 5 assists. Will McDonald had 28 points and 9 rebounds for Fujian. Zaid Abbas had 20 points and 26 rebounds. Zhou Qixin scored 13. Luo Yiting had 5 points and 6 rebounds. Anthony Roberson had 8 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists, missing all 10 three-pointers he attempted.


CBA Round 12: Shanxi Zhongyu is upset by Shanghai Sharks - by Eurobasket News
The most important game in the last round took place in Shanghai between third ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (6-4) and fifteenth ranked Shanghai Sharks (4-7) on Friday night. Shanxi Zhongyu was edged by Shanghai Sharks in a tough game on the road 90-92. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Shanxi Zhongyu. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 29-20. But Shanxi Zhongyu won third quarter 24-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who had a double-double by scoring 30 points and 11 rebounds. International center ZhaoXu Zhang (221-87, college: California) chipped in 15 points and 11 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American swingman Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) who recorded 31 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Shanghai Sharks moved-up to thirteenth place. Shanxi Zhongyu at the other side dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Shanghai Sharks are looking forward to face higher ranked Bayi Fubang (#8) in Ningbo in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Shanxi Zhongyu will play on the road against Zhejiang Guangsha Lions where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Undefeated leader Beijing Ducks delivered the eleventh consecutive victory. This time they beat 17th ranked TianJin Rongcheng (2-10) 107-101 in Tianjin. It was a good game for American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) who led his team to a victory with 35 points (!!!), 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. YanXi Zhu contributed with 26 points and 11 rebounds (on 12-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners. American power forward Donnell Harvey (203-80, college: Florida) replied with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds for TianJin Rongcheng. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Undefeated Beijing Ducks (11-0) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They maintain first position with a perfect record of 11 victories in a row. TianJin Rongcheng lost ninth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with ten games lost. Beijing Ducks will play against Qingdao Double Star (#14) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. TianJin Rongcheng will have a break next round.
The game in Hangzhou was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (6-4) played at the court of sixth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (7-4). Zhejiang Guangsha Lions defeated Xinjiang Flying Tige 102-92 on Friday. Worth to mention a great performance of Wilson Chandler who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 31 points and 13 rebounds. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions' coach Jim Cleamons used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was Patrick Mills with 39 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions moved-up to third place. Loser Xinjiang Flying Tige keeps the fifth position with four games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will meet at home Shanxi Zhongyu (#6) in the next round. Xinjiang Flying Tige will play against Jilin Tigers in Changchun and hope to secure a win.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Hangzhou, where higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (6-4) lost at home to twelfth ranked Shandong Bulls (5-7) 94-107. The winners were led by Alan Anderson who scored that evening 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Shandong Bulls' coach Bob Weiss allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Shandong Bulls moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Fujian XX. Zhejiang Cyclones at the other side dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. Shandong Bulls' next round opponent will be Jiangsu Dragons (#16) in Nanjing where they are favorite. Zhejiang Cyclones will play at home against Foshan (#15).
The game with biggest result difference took place in Yingkou. Local Liaoning Hunters (5-6) were outscored by seventh ranked DongGuan Leopards (7-5) 117-95 on Friday night. The best player for the winners was Shavlik Randolph who had a double-double by scoring 32 points and 10 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. DongGuan Leopards moved-up to fourth place. Loser Liaoning Hunters keep the ninth position with six games lost. DongGuan Leopards will face league's second-placed Guandong Tigers in Dongguan in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Liaoning Hunters will play at home against Fujian SBS XunXin (#11) in Jinjiang and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Rest of the games of round 12 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Fujian XX were defeated by Jilin NE T. in Changchun 90-82. Bayi Fubang beat Foshan at home 101-96. Jiangsu D. lost to Qingdao DS on the opponent's court 86-103.
The best stats of 12th round was 27 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists and 6 steals by Osama Daghles of Jilin NE T..


TianJin R. - Beijing Ducks 101-107

Undefeated leader Beijing Ducks delivered the eleventh consecutive victory. This time they beat 17th ranked TianJin Rongcheng (2-10) 107-101 in Tianjin. TianJin Rongcheng was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 56-48 second half run of Beijing Ducks. They also forced 19 TianJin Rongcheng turnovers. TianJin Rongcheng was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) who led his team to a victory with 35 points (!!!), 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Center YanXi Zhu (209-90) contributed with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 11 rebounds (on 12-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners. American power forward Donnell Harvey (203-80, college: Florida) replied with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds and his fellow American import center David Harrison (213-82, college: Colorado) added 20 points and 13 rebounds in the effort for TianJin Rongcheng. Five TianJin Rongcheng players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Beijing Ducks (11-0) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They maintain first position with a perfect record of 11 victories in a row. TianJin Rongcheng lost ninth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with ten games lost. Beijing Ducks will play against Qingdao Double Star (#14) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. TianJin Rongcheng will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Beijing Ducks: M.Stephon 35+5reb+5ast, Z.YanXi 26+11reb+1ast, M.Randolph 21+10reb+3ast, J.Zhe 7+3reb, Z.Xiaochuan 6+9reb, W.Xiaohui 6+2reb+1ast
TianJin R.: H.Donnell 26+15reb+3ast, H.David 20+13reb+1ast, F.Rony 13+4reb+3ast, Z.Zhihan 12, Z.Nan 12+2reb+2ast, M.XiangLong 8+1reb+1ast
gschID: 158098


Jilin NE T. - Fujian XX 90-82

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Changchun where 10th ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (5-7) was defeated by eleventh ranked Jilin Tigers (5-6) 90-82 on Friday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 28-20. But Fujian SBS XunXin won second period 23-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Fujian SBS XunXin outrebounded Jilin Tigers 54-38 including 39 on the defensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Fujian SBS XunXin was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Jordanian guard Osama Daghles (198-79, college: Midwestern St.) who had a triple-double by scoring 27 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists and 6 steals. American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) chipped in 20 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Jordanian forward Zaid Abbas (203-83) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 26 rebounds and American center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) added 28 points and 9 rebounds respectively. Jilin Tigers moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Liaoning H. Loser Fujian SBS XunXin dropped to the eleventh position with seven games lost. Jilin Tigers will face higher ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (#7) in Urumqi in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Fujian SBS XunXin will play on the road against Liaoning Hunters (#9) in Yingkou and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Jilin NE T.: D.Osama 27+11reb+10ast, W.Jameel 20+7reb+1ast, M.Cartier 19+6reb+1ast, L.Wei 8+3reb+3ast, Z.Biao 6+5reb+2ast, Y.Shulong 6+1reb+5ast
Fujian XX: M.Will 28+9reb+2ast, A.Zaid 20+26reb+2ast, Z.Qixin 13+2reb, R.Anthony 8+5reb+5ast, Z.TaiLong 6+3reb, L.Yi Ting 5+7reb+1ast
gschID: 158099


Liaoning H. - DongGuan L. 95-117

The game with biggest result difference took place in Yingkou. Local Liaoning Hunters (5-6) were outscored by seventh ranked DongGuan Leopards (7-5) 117-95 on Friday night. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 117-95. The best player for the winners was American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) who had a double-double by scoring 32 points and 10 rebounds. Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) chipped in 28 points and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Josh Powell (206-83, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Rodney Carney (201-84, college: Memphis) added 21 points respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. DongGuan Leopards moved-up to fourth place. Loser Liaoning Hunters keep the ninth position with six games lost. DongGuan Leopards will face league's second-placed Guandong Tigers in Dongguan in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Liaoning Hunters will play at home against Fujian SBS XunXin (#11) in Jinjiang and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
DongGuan L.: R.Shavlik 32+10reb+1ast, A.Josh-Emmanuel 28+3reb+6ast, Q.Biao 21+4reb+2ast, Z.Kai 13+3reb+1ast, F.Qi 9+4reb+1ast, S.TongLin 6+4reb+3ast
Liaoning H.: C.Rodney 21+4reb+2ast, P.Josh 20+10reb, H.Tian-ju 14+5reb, Y.Ming 10+3reb+11ast, L.Xiaoxu 7+9reb+1ast, L.Shunan 7+1reb+2ast
gschID: 158100


Bayi Fubang - Foshan 101-96

No shocking result in a game in Ningbo where eighth ranked Bayi Fubang (6-4) defeated 13th ranked Foshan (3-8) 101-96 on Friday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Foshan trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 29-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 96-101 at the end of the game. Strangely Foshan outrebounded Bayi Fubang 43-28 including a 17-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was international forward Lehei De (208-87) who scored 25 points and 5 rebounds. The former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-77) chipped in 22 points and 8 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). At the other side the best for losing team was American-Filipino power forward Marcus Douthit (210-80, college: Providence, agency: Edge Sports) who recorded a double-double by scoring 28 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and guard Lingxu Zeng (193-87) added 23 points respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Bayi Fubang moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Foshan lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifteenth position with eight games lost. Bayi Fubang will face Shanghai Sharks (#13) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Foshan will play against Zhejiang Cyclones in Hangzhou.
Top scorers:
Bayi Fubang: D.Lehei 25+5reb+1ast, W.ZhiZhi 22+8reb+1ast, M.Ke 17+5reb+2ast, Y.Cao 14+1reb+2ast, W.ZhongGuang 8+3ast, X.ZhongHao 7+4reb+2ast
Foshan: D.Marcus 28+12reb+5ast, Z.Lingxu 23+3reb+3ast, H.Marcus 17+5reb, Z.Zhun 12+10reb+2ast, L.Zhi 5+4reb+1ast, H.Ben 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 158096


Guangsha L. - Xinjiang F.T. 102-92

The game in Hangzhou was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (6-4) played at the court of sixth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (7-4). Zhejiang Guangsha Lions defeated Xinjiang Flying Tige 102-92 on Friday. The game without a history. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 31 points and 13 rebounds and American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) who added 14 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Five Zhejiang Guangsha Lions players scored in double figures. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions' coach Jim Cleamons used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The best for the losing side was Australian point guard Patrick Mills (183-88, college: St.Mary's, CA) with 39 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds and the former international center Bateer Mengke (210-75) scored 8 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions moved-up to third place. Loser Xinjiang Flying Tige keeps the fifth position with four games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will meet at home Shanxi Zhongyu (#6) in the next round. Xinjiang Flying Tige will play against Jilin Tigers in Changchun and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Guangsha L.: C.Wilson 31+13reb+1ast, J.Lipeng 18+4reb, R.Peter John 14+12reb+4ast, W.Bo 11+4reb, Z.Yongpeng 10+2reb+2ast, L.Chih-Chieh 10+3reb+1ast
Xinjiang F.T.: M.Patrick 39+6reb+3ast, X.GuoChong 17+3reb+1ast, C.Tal 10+6reb, M.Kenyon 8+7reb+1ast, M.Bateer 8+13reb+11ast, P.Duo 6+1ast
gschID: 158097


Zhejiang C. - Shandong FB 94-107

We should mention about the upset which took place in Hangzhou, where higher ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (6-4) lost at home to twelfth ranked Shandong Bulls (5-7) 94-107. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Shandong Bulls's pressure prevailed and they won that period 28-22 extending their advantage to 13 points. The winners were led by American swingman Alan Anderson (198-82, college: Michigan St., agency: Priority Sports) who scored that evening 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists and Liberian-American forward Othello Hunter (203-86, college: Ohio St., agency: David Lee services) supported him with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Four Shandong Bulls players scored in double figures. Shandong Bulls' coach Bob Weiss allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 41 points (!!!), 5 rebounds and 4 assists by American guard J.R. Smith (198-85) did not help to save the game for Zhejiang Cyclones. His fellow American import power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) added 16 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Shandong Bulls moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Fujian XX. Zhejiang Cyclones at the other side dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. Shandong Bulls' next round opponent will be Jiangsu Dragons (#16) in Nanjing where they are favorite. Zhejiang Cyclones will play at home against Foshan (#15).
Top scorers:
Shandong FB: A.Alan 28+8reb+7ast, H.Othello 25+10reb+2ast, W.Ke 17+5reb+2ast, W.Ruheng 14+4reb, S.Jie 9+3reb+4ast, L.JiuLong 8+2reb+1ast
Zhejiang C.: S.J.R. 41+5reb+4ast, B.Josh 16+11reb+4ast, D.Jinhui 11+5reb+4ast, J.Peng 9+3reb, C.Fei 7+3reb, Z.ChunJun 4+3reb+3ast
gschID: 158094


Shanghai S. - Shanxi Zh. 92-90

The most important game in the last round took place in Shanghai between third ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (6-4) and fifteenth ranked Shanghai Sharks (4-7) on Friday night. Shanxi Zhongyu was edged by Shanghai Sharks in a tough game on the road 90-92. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Shanxi Zhongyu. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 29-20. But Shanxi Zhongyu won third quarter 24-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who had a double-double by scoring 30 points and 11 rebounds. International center ZhaoXu Zhang (221-87, college: California) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds. Four Shanghai Sharks players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American swingman Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) who recorded 31 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!) and his fellow American import forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) added 21 points and 13 rebounds respectively. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Shanghai Sharks moved-up to thirteenth place. Shanxi Zhongyu at the other side dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Shanghai Sharks are looking forward to face higher ranked Bayi Fubang (#8) in Ningbo in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Shanxi Zhongyu will play on the road against Zhejiang Guangsha Lions where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Shanghai S.: H.Mike 30+11reb+1ast, Z.ZhaoXu 15+11reb+1ast, M.Lingyuan 10+5reb+3ast, F.Ryan 10+1reb+1ast, F.Tian 9+5reb+4ast, W.Yong-Liang 7+2reb
Shanxi Zh.: W.Marcus 31+6reb+6ast, G.Charles 21+13reb, D.JiangPeng 11+4reb, L.XiaoMing 9+3reb+3ast, Y.PengFei 6+5reb, P.Jiang 6+2reb
gschID: 158087


Qingdao DS - Jiangsu D. 103-86

There was a minor upset when 14th ranked Jiangsu Dragons (3-8) were defeated on the road by sixteenth ranked Qingdao Double Star (4-8) 103-86 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Qingdao Double Star. Jiangsu Dragons was better in fourth quarter 26-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Jiangsu Dragons 43-28 including 33 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tenn-Martin) who scored 26 points and 8 assists. Nigerian-British power forward Olumide Oyedeji (208-81) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 17 rebounds. Four Qingdao Double Star players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) who recorded a double-double by scoring 27 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international swingman Da Meng (196-82) added 23 points respectively. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Qingdao Double Star moved-up to fourteenth place. Loser Jiangsu Dragons dropped to the fifteenth position with eight games lost. Qingdao Double Star will face league's leader Beijing Ducks on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Jiangsu Dragons will play against Shandong Bulls (#12) in Jinan.
Top scorers:
Qingdao DS: H.Lester 26+2reb+8ast, S.Sani 18+11reb, L.Mingtao 18+3reb+2ast, O.Olumide 15+17reb+1ast, C.Liang 8+3reb+1ast, L.Gen 6
Jiangsu D.: V.Jackson 27+12reb+4ast, M.Da 23+3reb+1ast, Y.Li 10+1reb, L.Yahui 7+3reb, H.XueFeng 4+3ast, W.Marcus 4+1reb+1ast
gschID: 158088




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


Week 9: CytaVision Apoel - Papa Johns Pizza Omonia 95-85 - by Chris Mammides
The opener of the 9th Round of the Mini Cyprus league of teh First Division found the team of the newcomer Head Coach Linos Gavriel to succeed a crucial win over the team of Kiraikou Adamou Omonia with the veteran Lewis Lewis Sims (203-F/C-73, agency: Strategic Sports, college: New Orleans) being unstoppable the 22 minutes he played.
The players of APOEL were much better that their opponnets, playing a solid game after the 15th minute and having a solid team with atleast 7-8 players ready to assist the leading figures in scoring at any given point while Omonoia was expecting everythign from its two Americans Gordon Watt (198-F-86, college: Houston Baptist) and Devron Bostick (196-G-88, college: Minnesota) who scored nearly the 65% of their team's total points. (54 out of 85)

The first period was a real derby bwtween the two teams with the visitors being more accurate and with the American duet Devron Bostick and Gordon Watt scring nearly all the points for their team while APOEL enter to the game with a bit of stress and the fresh start from a new Head Coach, the result in this first period was 14-17 for Omonoia.

The second period which was the best for the veteran Lewis Sims, the home team with the American as a leading figure overscored the visitors by 31-22 and an overall score to 45-39. It is worth mentioend that the game was balanced three minutes before the end of half time.

The 3rd period sarted even more aggresively for the hoem team, with Cuffee and Ogooluwa Adegboye (182-PG-87, college: St.Bonaventure) assisting the performance of Lewis Sims, APOEL locked a double digit deficit and went to the 4th quarter with a period's score being more than double as the 25-12 reshaped the overal score to 70-51 and put an early end to the 'supposed to be derby' between the two Nicosia teams.

The 4th period was simply a procedure for teh home teamwhile the visitors gave a big 'fight' mainly with Gordon Watt and Devron Bostick to cut the deficit as low as possible and they fianlly manage to cut the difference to 10 points by the end of the game.
MVP of the game was the 38 years old forward Lewis Sims in an amazing game, his best this season with the team of APOEL
Top scorers:
APOEL: Lewis Sims 21 points and 8 rebounds in 21 minutes!!, Ogooluwa Adegboye 16 points and 3 assists, Mandic 13 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists, Cuffee 11 points and 4 rebounds.
Omonoia: Devron Bostick 31 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals, Gordon Watt 23 points & 9 rebounds, Papadopoulos 12 points with 1/6 three pointers and Konstantinou 9 points with 3/4 three pointers,



2nd blog - by Kevin Houston
Its been awhile since I got up with y'all.. Still the same stance over here; giving all the Glory to God !!!
Besides that a lot has changed since I last wrote on this blog.
We went on a terrible losing streak, dropping 3 games in a row. We also changed our coach.It hurts just writing that. I'm not dwelling on the past but I do believe that we all can definitely learn from our mistakes and losses. We learned to be responsible on defense, to get off to a good start, and to work hard until the end. Along with a lot of other things. This is fundamental stuff I know, but those are things we were missing.For the start of the second half if th season,
We intend to do this with Coach Linos.

This next game, which is today against Omonia, will be a perfect way to prove we learned. If you live in Cyprus then you know how deep the rivalry goes between Apoel and Omonia. Their gym and our gym is in the same parking lot. The teams even have different political views. This rivalry is major in the city of Nicosia. Walking around in my Apoel sweater or jacket really attracts a lot of attention either from fans or Omonia foes. This game is going to be exciting, I live for games like this!
I have been meaning to write y'all but I've been busy with the fam preparing for Christmas. My wife and I have been discussing if we should tell our daughter the truth about Santa Claus. 'Why does Santa Claus get the credit??'
Anyways that conversation is for a different blog site lol
Time for me to rest up for the match tonight. God Bless!!!
Oh and a big shout out to all my Cali friends and family. And all my TX family, love you all.

If you like my blog postyou can check out my blog site http://a-playersperspective.blogspot.com/
Guest Featuring Johnny Dukes. My boi since way back.
Follow me on twitter @khouston2020

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


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


Standings - D2
1Liga Standings
 1. J.Hradec 15-0 
 2. Sparta Praha 11-3 
 3. Opava B 11-3 
 4. Proton Zlin 10-4 
 5. Sokol H.Kralove 9-5 
 6. Trutnov 8-6 
 7. Sokol Prazsky 7-7 
 8. Liberec 7-7 
 9. Benesov 6-8 
 10. Vysehrad 5-9 
 11. Litomerice 4-10 
 12. Prostejov B 4-10 
 13. Mlada Boleslav 1-13 
 14. Kladno 1-14 


*****************************************************
  DENMARK   


Standings - Basketligaen
Ligaen Standings
 1. Svendborg 15-1 
 2. Bakken 14-1 
 3. Naestved 10-6 
 4. SISU 7-9 
 5. Aalborg 6-9 
 6. Horsholm 6-10 
 7. Horsens IC 6-10 
 8. Aabyhoj 6-10 
 9. Vaerlose 6-10 
 10. Falcon 3-13 


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Ryan WHITE
  Aalborg
  (177-PG-88)
  Avg: 25.7
 1. White, Aalborg25.7 
 2. Harris, Horsens IC24.1 
 3. Henry, Naestved22.2 
 4. Rutherford, SISU20.7 
 5. Kingsley, Svendborg20.2 
 6. Rasmussen, Vaerl.19.7 
 7. Curry, Aabyhoj19.5 
 8. Bishop, Aalborg19.0 
 9. Bak, Horsholm16.6 
 10. Dennis, SISU16.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jordan GLYNN
  Naestved
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Glynn, Naestved10.8 
 2. Bishop, Aalborg10.7 
 3. St.John, Horsens10.7 
 4. Benjamin, Horsholm9.6 
 5. Curry, Aabyhoj9.3 
 6. Phillips, Aabyhoj8.5 
 7. Colas, Horsholm8.5 
 8. Osgood-R., Vaerlose8.4 
 9. Johansen, Naestved8.2 
 10. Harris, Horsens IC8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Henry, Naestved5.1 
 2. White, Aalborg4.6 
 3. Elgmork, Aalborg4.0 
 4. Sattler, Horsens IC3.9 
 5. McFarlane, Falcon3.9 
 6. Colman, Svendborg3.8 
 7. Curry, Aabyhoj3.5 
 8. Sakne, Horsens IC3.3 
 9. Nielsen, SISU3.3 
 10. Plannthin, Svend.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Henry, Naestved4.8 
 2. Wire, Vaerlose2.9 
 3. White, Aalborg2.7 
 4. Dennis, SISU2.3 
 5. Bishop, Aalborg2.3 
 6. McFarlane, Falcon1.9 
 7. Plannthin, Svend.1.8 
 8. Sattler, Horsens IC1.8 
 9. Kristiansen, Aalbo.1.7 
 10. Nielsen, SISU1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jenard HARRISON
  SISU
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Harrison, SISU2.3 
 2. Phillips, Aabyhoj2.1 
 3. Colas, Horsholm1.9 
 4. Christoffers., Bak.1.9 
 5. Bishop, Aalborg1.7 
 6. Curry, Aabyhoj1.7 
 7. Marinkovic, Horsho.1.4 
 8. Eleraky, Aalborg1.1 
 9. Larsen, Vaerlose1.0 
 10. Vinson, Svendborg0.8 


Ligaen Round 16: Naestved is upset by Vaerlose - by Eurobasket News
The most important game in the last round took place in Vaerlose between third ranked Naestved (10-6) and ninth ranked Vaerlose (6-10) on Wednesday night. Naestved was defeated by Vaerlose on the road 86-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Naestved. The game was mostly controlled by Vaerlose. Naestved managed to win second period 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American forward Aaron Osgood-Richardson (205, college: Cornell) fired a double-double by scoring 24 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) chipped in 23 points and 5 assists. American forward Jordan Glynn (200-89, college: SF Austin, agency: I.D.S. Law) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds for lost side. Vaerlose moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Naestved at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Vaerlose is looking forward to face Horsholm (#6) on the road in the next round. Naestved will play against the league's second-placed Bakken in Aarhus and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Leader Svendborg delivered the fifteenth victory. This time they crushed 5th ranked Horsholm (6-10) 89-60. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Mikkel Plannthin (195-88) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 4 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Durell Vinson contributed with 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Svendborg's coach Craig Pedersen felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American power forward Joe Benjamin (201-83, college: W.Virginia St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds for Horsholm. Svendborg maintains first position with 15-1 record. Horsholm at the other side dropped to the sixth place with ten games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Svendborg will play against SISU (#4) in Copenhagen in the next round. Horsholm will play at home against Vaerlose and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Rest of the games of round 16 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Horsens IC was defeated by Bakken in Aarhus 85-70. Aabyhoj was beaten by Aalborg at home 69-78. Bottom-ranked Falcon lost to SISU on the opponent's court 77-88.

Svendborg - Horsholm 89-60

Leader Svendborg delivered the fifteenth victory. This time they crushed 5th ranked Horsholm (6-10) 89-60. The game without a history. Svendborg led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Horsholm to just 7 points in third quarter. Svendborg dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Horsholm's 36. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Mikkel Plannthin (195-88) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 4 assists (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). American forward Durell Vinson (201-85, college: Wagner) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Five Svendborg players scored in double figures. Svendborg's coach Craig Pedersen felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American power forward Joe Benjamin (201-83, college: W.Virginia St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Bonell Colas (205-82, college: Florida) added 13 points in the effort for Horsholm. Svendborg maintains first position with 15-1 record. Horsholm at the other side dropped to the sixth place with ten games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Svendborg will play against SISU (#4) in Copenhagen in the next round. Horsholm will play at home against Vaerlose and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: M.Plannthin 20+3reb+4ast, D.Vinson 16+10reb+1ast, C.Magaard 15+4reb, M.Kingsley 12+5reb+1ast, C.Colman 10+5reb+3ast, A.Darboe 8+3reb+2ast
Horsholm: J.Benjamin 20+11reb, B.Colas 13+4reb+1ast, A.Bak 9+2reb+4ast, P.Hertz 6+1reb+2ast, V.Aleksic 5+4reb+1ast, Z.Jukic 3+1ast
gschID: 136164


Bakken - Horsens IC 85-70

There was no surprise in Aarhus where 5th ranked Horsens IC (6-10) was defeated by second ranked Bakken (14-1) 85-70. The game was mostly controlled by Bakken. Horsens IC was better in fourth quarter 19-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Bakken forced 20 Horsens IC turnovers. It was a very good performance for the former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC) who helped to win the game recording 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. International swingman Chris Nielsen (192-85) contributed with 20 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Bakken players scored in double figures. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American power forward Mike St.John (203-84, college: La Salle) replied with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists and his fellow American import forward Will Harris (198-86, college: Albany) added 23 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Horsens IC. Bakken have an impressive ten-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 14-1 record behind leader Svendborg. Horsens IC at the other side dropped to the sixth place with ten games lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. Bakken will play against Naestved (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Horsens IC will play against Aalborg and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bakken: C.Nielsen 20+4reb+2ast, N.Iversen 18+6reb+4ast, J.Alexander 15+4reb+2ast, A.Jakobsen 12+1reb, F.Nielsen 7+5reb+2ast, M.Dejworek 6+6reb
Horsens IC: W.Harris 23+8reb+1ast, M.St.John 14+14reb+5ast, H.Schur 12+7reb+2ast, M.Sakne 9, S.Einarsson 4+2reb+1ast, D.Sattler 3+2reb+2ast
gschID: 136165


Aabyhoj - Aalborg 69-78

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when eighth ranked Aalborg (6-9) defeated on the road 7th ranked Aabyhoj (6-10) 78-69. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Aabyhoj won fourth quarter 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Aalborg made 20-of-24 charity shots (83.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Aabyhoj turnovers. It was a very good performance for American point guard Ryan White (177-88, college: Texas St.) who helped to win the game recording 35 points (!!!), 5 assists and 6 steals. The other American import forward Tony Bishop (201-89, college: Texas St.) contributed with 18 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American forward D'Mario Curry (201-85, college: Lincoln Memorial) replied with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists and international guard Darko Jukic (199-90) added 15 points and 4 assists in the effort for Aabyhoj. Four Aabyhoj players scored in double figures. Aalborg moved-up to fifth place. Aabyhoj lost sixth consecutive game. They dropped to the sixth position with ten games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Aalborg will play against Horsens IC (#7) in Horsens in the next round. Aabyhoj will play on the road against Falcon and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Aalborg: R.White 35+3reb+5ast, T.Bishop 18+8reb, M.Christensen 8+3reb, S.Eleraky 5+6reb, M.Rasmussen 4+4reb, S.Sorensen 4+7reb
Aabyhoj: D.Jukic 15+4reb+4ast, D.Curry 14+10reb+4ast, D.Phillips 13+9reb+1ast, O.Sigurdsson 10+1reb+1ast, R.Soby Dalboge 6, J.Wang 5+2reb+2ast
gschID: 165369


SISU - Falcon 88-77

Very expected game in Copenhagen where 10th ranked Falcon (3-13) was defeated by fourth ranked SISU (7-9) 88-77. Falcon was ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 31-16 third quarter run of SISU. Falcon was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for American forward Donald Rutherford (198-87, college: Catawba) who helped to win the game recording 23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. The other American import swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) contributed with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Forward Christian Nielsen (201-86, college: Wagner) replied with 14 points and the former international swingman Henrik Thomsen (203-84, college: Cal-Riverside) added 11 points in the effort for Falcon. Five SISU and four Falcon players scored in double figures. Falcon's coach Henrik Koll rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. SISU maintains fourth position with 7-9 record. Falcon lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom place with 13 games lost. SISU will play against league's leader Svendborg on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Falcon will play against Aabyhoj (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
SISU: D.Rutherford 23+7reb+4ast, M.Dennis 20+6reb+1ast, J.Harrison 16+8reb+1ast, M.Glahn 15+4reb+3ast, D.Harder 10+5reb+1ast, Y.Gyamfi 2+1reb
Falcon: C.Nielsen 14+4reb+1ast, J.Rottgardt 13+2ast, H.Thomsen 11+4reb+2ast, P.Ba 10+5reb, P.Christiansen 9+1reb, C.Thomsen 8+2reb
gschID: 136162


Vaerlose - Naestved 86-75

The most important game in the last round took place in Vaerlose between third ranked Naestved (10-6) and ninth ranked Vaerlose (6-10) on Wednesday night. Naestved was defeated by Vaerlose on the road 86-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Naestved. The game was mostly controlled by Vaerlose. Naestved managed to win second period 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American forward Aaron Osgood-Richardson (205, college: Cornell) fired a double-double by scoring 24 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) chipped in 23 points and 5 assists. American forward Jordan Glynn (200-89, college: SF Austin, agency: I.D.S. Law) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds and his fellow American import point guard Corin Henry (180-88, college: Tarleton St.) added 21 points, 6 assists and 5 steals respectively for lost side. Four Naestved players scored in double figures. Vaerlose moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Naestved at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Vaerlose is looking forward to face Horsholm (#6) on the road in the next round. Naestved will play against the league's second-placed Bakken in Aarhus and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Vaerlose: A.Osgood-Richardson 24+14reb, M.Rasmussen 23+3reb+5ast, P.Moller 14+1reb+2ast, P.Simonsen 8+3ast, S.Jensen 6+1reb+2ast, A.Wire 6+9reb+2ast
Naestved: J.Glynn 21+14reb+1ast, C.Henry 21+1reb+6ast, N.Brasas 12+3reb+4ast, P.Johansen 11+8reb+2ast, M.Creppy 6+1reb, P.Christensen 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 136163




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


Dawson is back at Austin Toros - by Eurobasket Center
Austin Toros agreed terms with 27-year old forward Eric Dawson (208-F-116kg-84, college: Midwestern St.). Its actually Dawsons comeback to Austin T. as he played here before. In his first game he scored 25 points, grabbed 12 rebounds and 4 assists helping his new team beat Texas L. 118-115. Dawson played most recently at Union Monaco (Eurobasket). While playing 3 games for Monaco last season his stats were: 23.0ppg, 11.3rpg, 3.7apg, 2.3spg and 2.0bpg. He is a very experienced player. Dawson played also pro basketball in Dominican Rep., Japan and Korea. He graduated Midwestern State University in 2007 and actually missed last season. It will be his fifth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Tulsa 66ers sign Nolan Richardson - by Eurobasket News
The Tulsa 66ers, proud affiliate of the Oklahoma City Thunder, announced today that they have signed guard Nolan Richardson (6'2''-G, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Midwestern St.).

Richardson attended Tulsa local tryouts in October and competed at 66ers training camp in November. He played collegiately at Midwestern State and was named to the Division II All-America Third Team as a senior after averaging 21.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game.

Richardson will be in uniform tonight wearing No. 9 when Tulsa hosts Reno at 7 p.m. inside the Tulsa Convention Center.

With the acquisition, the 66ers roster now stands at nine.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Austin Toros adds Sanders to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Austin Toros agreed terms with 23-year old guard Jamarr Sanders (193-G-95kg-88, college: UAB). In his first game he scored 6 points helping his new team beat Texas L. 118-115. Sanders played most recently at KAO Dramas (Greece). While playing 6 games for KAOD this season he averaged 7.0ppg, 2.8rpg and 1.7apg. Sanders just graduated University of Alabama at Birmingham and actually missed last season. It will be his first season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Austin T. - Texas L. 118-115
The Legends produced a number of personal season highs, but it wasn't enough as the Austin Toros survived a tight match-up 118-115. Vance Cooksey (6'0''-PG-87, college: Pikeville) was sensational delivering 16 assists at the point guard position while pouring in 24 points. Booker Woodfox (6'1''-PG-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Creighton) scored 20+ points for the fifth game in row, registering a season high 29 points against the Toros. Bench play proved to be the difference in the game as the Legends were outscored 51-24 by the reserves. Eric Dawson (6'10''-F-84, college: Midwestern St.) for the Toros was the hot hand, making 10 of 15 shots for a team high 25 points off the bench. Texas controlled the boards 49-42, in thanks to Ronald Allen who ripped down 16 rebounds for his season high while contributing 14 points and two blocks. The Toros made the best of the charity stripe connecting on 90.6% of their free throws for 29 points on the night. Texas managed only 69.9% from the stripe, connecting on 16 of 23 attempts. Texas loses their fifth straight to fall to 1-7 on the season, while the Toros improve to 5-2. The Legends now return to Frisco where they'll face the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (5-4) on Saturday the 17th. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Springfield A. - Erie Bay H. 114-107
Tirrell Baines (6'6''-F-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Marshall) tied a game-high 31 points as the Erie BayHawks scored more than 100 points for the fifth time this season in a 114-107 loss to the Springfield Armor Wednesday at the MassMutual Center. Baines, who shot 48 percent from the field and made 7-of-9 from the free-throw line, recorded a double-double as he pulled down 10 boards for the BayHawks (2-6). The 6-foot 6-inch forward averages nearly 16 points and eight rebounds per game for Erie. After finding themselves down by as many as 23 points in the second half, the BayHawks used a 15-5 run over a 7-minute stretch to bring the score to 109-104. However, the Armor (5-1) hit their free throws in the final minutes, putting the game out of reach for Erie. The BayHawks' effort comes against an Eastern Conference-leading Springfield team that lost four of its players to NBA training camps earlier in the week. B.J. Jenkins (6'0''-G-88, college: Murray St.) also added 22 points. He and Baines were two of six BayHawks to score in double digits. Lance Hurdle (6'2''-G-87, college: Miami, FL) led Springfield in scoring with 31 points while Jamar Brown added 18 points, 11 rebounds and three blocked shots for the Armor. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Idaho S. - Bakersfield J. 118-98
Seven games into the season, Idaho Stampede coach Randy Livingston has rewarded forward Reginald Larry (6'7''-F-86, college: Boise St.) with a starting role and center Will Foster (7'5''-C-88, college: Gonzaga) with extended playing time. Good moves. Both players figured heavily in the Stampede's 118-98 win over the Bakersfield Jam on Wednesday night at CenturyLink Arena. Larry, a former Boise State standout, went 9-for-12 from the field and tied a game-high with 19 points. Foster, meanwhile, notched 16 points and 11 rebounds. 'It's been a while,' Foster said of his double-double. 'I don't even know what that feels like anymore.' He does now. And Larry knows what it feels like to contribute to a team that he's been following for years. 'I've watched the Stampede and been in this crowd, and I've always wanted a chance to play here,' he said. 'Randy has put me in the position I'm in, and the only thing I can do is play as hard as I can.' Livingston sounds like a proud father when addressing the two. On Larry: 'I've rewarded him and started him, and good things have happened.' As for Foster: 'Every time he comes into the game good things happen. Most big guys can't play in this league because it's so fast. But he can play and protect the rim.' Foster never really found his role in his four years at Gonzaga, which is why Livingston called the big man a project during training camp. 'He's not a project anymore,' Livingston said. 'He's earning his minutes.' The Jam (5-2) came into the game sitting atop the NBA Development League's West Conference. The Stampede (3-4), meanwhile, were several rungs down the conference ladder, but they showed they can now play with the league's elite teams when they're clicking. 'I feel like we're coming into ourselves,' Larry said. 'We're starting to get the feel for each other and we're playing for each other.' Idaho got out to a fast start thanks to guard Cheyne Gadson, who was perfect from the field in the first quarter. He was 3-for-3 from 3-point range and 5-for-5 overall on his way to a 15-point opening frame. He finished with 19 points and five assists. 'He's becoming the leader we need him to be,' Livingston said. *Courtesy of www.idahostatesman.com

Springfield A. - Erie Bay H. 117-123 OT
The Springfield Armor saw it's win streak come to an end Thursday night at the MassMutual Center, in overtime no less. The franchise-record win streak came to an end at four games as the Erie BayHawks won 123-117 in front of 1,769 in the final home game of the calendar year for the Armor. Springfield allowed a season-high in points to the BayHawks (3-5), who snapped a losing streak at three games. 'I thought it was two teams battling hard, I thought it was a great game,'' Armor coach Bob MacKinnon said. 'It was a really good D-League game, they did some good things and we did some good things. 'It came down to overtime and the kid Jenkins, a veteran guy, makes a big three,'' MacKinnon added. 'That happens, we have to deal with it and move on.'' The Armor, who had a season-high 42 free throw attempts, made 30 and missed two, including two inside the final six seconds of regulation with the game tied. A Jonathan Thomas tip in at the buzzer gave the Armor an 83-82 lead after three quarters. They led by as many as four points early in the fourth quarter, then the BayHawks grabbed the upper hand for a spell before reverting back to Springfield. An L.D. Williams (6'4''-G-88, college: Wake Forest) (33 points) jumper with 56 second left gave Springfield a 110-107 lead, but the BayHawks tied the game as D.J. Kennedy (6'6''-G/F-89, agency: Interperformances, college: St.John's) (21 points) made one of two foul shots and B.J. Jenkins (20 points) hit two from the foul line with 12.6 seconds left. Williams went to the line with 5.8 seconds left to put the Armor on top but he missed both shots, leading the Armor to their second overtime of the season. 'He got to the line and I give him credit because he wanted the ball,'' MacKinnon said. 'He wanted the ball to make a play at the end so I'll live and die with that every day.'' It was tied at 112-112 when Jenkins hit the 3-pointer to give Erie the lead for good. Lance Hurdle (16 points, 8 assists, 6 rebounds) scored at the rim to cut it to one, but Mike Gerrity (22 points) drove for a basket then Kyle Spain (18 points) scored on a tip in after an Armor turnover to lock it up for the BayHawks. 'They came to play but we should have closed them out at the end, bottom line,'' Armor forward Jamar Brown said. 'We had numerous chances but we just didn't take advantage of them.'' The dominance displayed in the paint a night ago wasn't present Thursday for the Armor, at least not in the first half. After a short spurt of the Armor getting to the rim on three straight possessions for an 11-7 lead, they suddenly became inept in the lane on both ends of the floor. Erie was getting the second chances on offensive rebounds, limiting the Armor to one shot and that one shot was usually a perimeter attempt from a flat offensive set. With Tirrell Baines (27 points), Kennedy and Spain playing a much tougher interior defense and attacking the glass on the offensive end, the BayHawks played a better interior game with the Armor, and they also shot the ball better from behind the arc to gab a 58-52 halftime lead. The BayHawks were 4 for 5 from behind the arc in the first half and led by as many as 10 points. The Armor got back into the game by attacking the rim once again. They only had two field goals in a 12-2 run that tied the game at 42-42, but forced the issue by getting fouled in the act of driving to the basket, making 8 of 10 foul shots. Tighter defense and better ball movement on the offensive end helped the Armor regained the lead in the third quarter. Down eight, Springfield rolled off a 12-2 run in which all but two points came in the paint while the defense either denied attempts or allowed just one shot. That was the start of multiple lead changes, reaching 12 by the end of regulation. *Courtesy of www.masslive.com

Dakota W. - Tulsa 66ers 93-80
Nkem Ojougboh (6'9''-C-87, agency: David Lee services, college: Northeastern) recorded his second consecutive double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds and Brady Morningstar (6'3''-G-86, college: Kansas) had 14 points and a team-high six assists, but the Tulsa 66ers fell to the Dakota Wizards 93-80 in NBA D-league action Sunday at the Bismarck Civic Center. Keys: The Wizards used a 32-20 scoring advantage in the fourth quarter to claim the victory. Dakota was led by Maurice Baker (6'1''-PG-79, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Oklahoma St.) with 23 points. Curtis Withers added a double-double with 10 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. Tulsa forced 17 Dakota turnovers and nine steals, led by Ladustin Williams with three. In addition to his double-double, Ojougboh posted two blocks. Tulsa's Ryan Reid scored 15 and Billy Rush had 10. Notes: Tulsa fell to 5-3. Dakota improved to 3-3. Up next: 7 p.m. Friday vs. Reno at the Tulsa Convention Center. Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

Los Angeles D. - Texas L. 104-92
Eric Musselman's D-Fenders made late-game defensive adjustments to outscore the Texas Legends 35-15 in the fourth quarter and pull a come-from-behind 104-92 win at the Toyota Sports Center. Los Angeles' (7-3) defense held Texas to 39.8 percent shooting while Eniel Polynice (6'5''-G-88, college: Seton Hall), who recorded his first triple-double of the season (23 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists), fueled the D-Fenders offense. 'I thought he played smart and played harder than he has,' Musselman said of Polynice's Monday night performance. 'He figured out angles tonight and he's a great dribble driver.' Aside from defensive adjustments, the D-Fenders shot 54.9 percent and were led in scoring by Brandon Costner (6'9''-F-87, college: N.Carolina St.) (29 points) for the sixth time this season. Teammate Jordan Brady finished with 16 points (7-12 FG) and five rebounds off the bench, Gerard Anderson tallied 14 points (5-7 FG) and five rebounds, and Otis George registered 13 points (6-7 FG) and six rebounds. Texas (1-6) was paced by Booker Woodfox, who totaled 24 points on 8-of-16 shooting and five assists. Derek Williams scored 16 (4-6 3FG) off the bench and Vance Cooksey finished with 14 points and five assists. With the win, Los Angeles is now 5-1 in its last six games. The D-Fenders next play a home-and-home series, first travelling to Bakersfield for their 7:00 p.m. contest on Dec. 16 before returning home for a game on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Sioux Falls S. - Canton C. 93-74
The Sioux Falls Skyforce defeated the Canton Charge 93-74 Tuesday night at the Sioux Falls Arena. Sioux Falls took its first lead of the game with a layup by Dominique Coleman midway through the first quarter to go ahead 10-9 and never trailed the rest of the game. Sioux Falls (2-5) took advantage of Cantons poor shooting all night and led by as many as 25 points early in the fourth quarter. Ryan Anderson (6'4''-G-87, college: Nebraska) scored 12 of his 20 points in the second quarter as Sioux Falls outscored Canton (3-4) 32-22 in that quarter to take a 48-33 lead at halftime. Both teams got off to sluggish starts as Canton took the early lead with a 7-0 run to start the game. Sioux Falls responded with a 16-4 run taking advantage of Cantons 16.7 percent shooting in the first quarter. Sioux Falls used a balanced scoring effort to build their lead the rest of the game as five players finished in double figures. Anderson had his best game in a Skyforce uniform with a team-high 20 points to go along with nine rebounds. Billy McShepard (6'10''-F, college: Valdosta St.) posted a double-double with 12 points and a season-high 14 rebounds. Dante Milligan (6'9''-F-84, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Massachusetts) led Canton in scoring with 18 points and also grabbed a season-high 18 rebounds. Travis Franklin added 13 points and six rebounds off the bench. Sioux Falls hosts rival Dakota in back-to-back games on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. CT. Canton continues their road trip Friday against Idaho at 9 p.m. ET. Courtesy of www.keloland.com

<<>><<>>

Standings
D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Springfield A. 5-2 
 2. Iowa E. 5-3 
 3. Dakota W. 3-3 
 4. Ft.Wayne MA 3-3 
 5. Canton C. 3-4 
 6. Erie Bay H. 3-6 
 7. Maine RC 2-4 
 8. Sioux Falls S. 2-5 
West Conference
 1. Los Angeles D. 7-3 
 2. Austin T. 5-2 
 3. Bakersfield J. 5-2 
 4. Tulsa 66ers 5-3 
 5. Rio Grande VV 5-4 
 6. Idaho S. 3-4 
 7. Reno B. 2-4 
 8. Texas L. 1-7 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Brandon COSTNER
  Los A.
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 25
 1. Costner, Los A.25.0 
 2. Ahearn, Reno B.25.0 
 3. Garcia, Sioux F.24.8 
 4. Sloan, Erie Bay H.24.8 
 5. Dentmon, Austin T.23.3 
 6. Millsap, Los A.23.2 
 7. Moses Randal., Iow.21.5 
 8. Biggs, Canton C.21.3 
 9. Allmond, Ft.Wayne.21.0 
 10. Famous, Iowa E.21.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 12.7
 1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers12.7 
 2. Butch, Bakersfi.12.5 
 3. Famous, Iowa E.12.2 
 4. Daniels, Erie B.11.4 
 5. Stiemsma, Sioux F.10.8 
 6. Wright, Maine RC10.8 
 7. Milligan, Canton C.10.6 
 8. Thomas, Austin T.10.3 
 9. Dyer, Texas L.9.4 
 10. Withers, Dakota W.9.4 
Assists Per Game
 Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.11.8 
 2. Cooksey, Texas L.9.1 
 3. Sloan, Erie Bay H.8.4 
 4. Tinsley, Los A.7.6 
 5. Ewing, Iowa E.7.4 
 6. Ahearn, Reno B.7.0 
 7. Snow, Maine RC7.0 
 8. Bozeman, Reno B.6.2 
 9. Coleman, Sioux F.6.1 
 10. Baker, Dakota W.6.0 
Steals Per Game
 Elijah MILLSAP
  Los A.
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Millsap, Los A.3.5 
 2. Tinsley, Los A.2.4 
 3. Dentmon, Austin T.2.3 
 4. Baker, Dakota W.2.2 
 5. Harris, Rio G.2.1 
 6. Hamilton, Los A.2.1 
 7. Fortson, Los A.2.1 
 8. Curry, Springfield2.0 
 9. Snow, Maine RC2.0 
 10. Thompson, Erie B.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Gregory STIEMSMA
  Sioux F.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Stiemsma, Sioux F.4.5 
 2. Foster, Idaho S.3.5 
 3. Major, Bakersfi.2.2 
 4. Daniels, Erie B.2.2 
 5. Thompson, Erie B.2.0 
 6. Dove, Dakota W.1.8 
 7. Gladness, Dakota1.8 
 8. Milligan, Canton C.1.6 
 9. Coleman, Rio G.1.6 
 10. Fazekas, Reno B.1.5 


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


LNB NEWS - by Peedu Goldenbeck
In the 2012 version of the LNB, Liga Nacional Baloncesto, the governing body has approved one naturalized player (player having received Dominican nationality) per team, to be accompanied by 3 import players or 'refuerzos' and a Caribbean Community player or 'communitario.'
The Caribbean 'communitario' players can hail from: puerto rico, virgn islands, trinidad y tobago, jamaica, bahamas, venezuela and other locales yet to be named.

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


INTERVIEW WITH EDGARS CUNDA, EMKL ASSIST LEADER - by Ozell Wells
Eurobasket had the pleasure of speaking with Edgars Cunda (196-G-84, agency: Court Side), currently approaching the midway point of his return to Eastern Europe. Playing for Valga/CKE Inkasso in the Estonian EMKL, he is currently leading the EMKL in both assist and steals.

EU: Edga, how have you found playing in Estonia?

EC: I wanted to come back in Europe.Upportunity was given from Valga team and we made a deal.

EU: What did you know about Estonia before coming this season? What compelled you to play in this market this particular year?

EC: I knew about this league cos this is my home country neighbour. And I have good friend Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) who played in Estonia before so I was informated about league. I came here because we won regular season and play offs in Kazakhstan league so I felt like job is done there and it is new challange for me, specially in point guard position here.

EU: Last season, you won the championship in Kazahkstan with Barsy Atyrau You have had tremendous experiences outside of your home of Latvia, please tell us briefly about them and your reasons for returning to the Baltics this season.

EC: Yes I had interesting experience in Kazakhstan. I learned impotant thinks from coach in Barsy team - Vadim Burakov as well as from other players in the court and besides that. We had a vonderfull colective there and I think that it played very importnat role of our success.
I came back to Baltics because as a professional basketball player I have a tendency to push myself for new achievments. So I thought that it would be good step coming back to Europe. So I can see what I capable of here with my new team.

EU: Please outline for us briefly, what has been the path that the team has travelled on this season, and what you see for them in the very near future. We see that you had a rough start to the season. There is a new coach, you are also on a winning streak of sorts. What do u think is on the horizon for in the very near future?

EC: Yes our season start was tuff. Because we came together from different teams and it was hard to feel each other on the floor in begining. The same time other team's main players are playing together for long years. So I think it was the main reason of our bad record. Also we played biggest part of season without 5 position player. But step by step we are improving as a team and as collective. And there is definately one thing that brought us together here - will to win. So I think our wins are infront of us.

EU: With the crucial games looming where do u see valga headed as you prepare for the midseason break? Any key points to improve on for the club? You are only 2 games out of a place in the top 4 teams of the league, with 3 games to play before the holiday break.

EC: I think we have good chances to win one of our last two games. But of course it will not be easy at all. Key point's of our game is that we know each other better now as well as fresh ideas from new coach - Varis Krumins About standings in championship I think what matters the most is the play-offs, so we need to get as much as posible to get better oponent.

EU: It appears that your versatility is posing match-up problesm for for opponents, standing 6'5 or 196cm, you can see over the top of smaller defenders, post up due to your size, & strength, but you are also a good shooter and passer, leading to quite a few double doubles from you this season. Is this going to assist the team as you gear up for the fight for postioning within the EMKL??

EC: Few times I was close to triple double actually.. ha ha ha ;) Of course I will do everything I can to help our team get maximum wins. When I'm on the court I don't think about stats the only thing what I think is to make good decisions in every single situation. So it might be that I don't score to much but give a lot of assists or make good steals and our team win's.. Then I'm really satisfied. Sometimes it might be complitely oposite I score more but have less assists. I'm trying do adjust depending what exact game need's! If I feel that I can use mismatch I do that, if I feel somebody is 'hot' I try to make play's for this player. Also trying to regulate tempo of our team's game. And allways try to go 100% in defence. Only thing what I missing this season is helping guys with offensive rebounds - I like to do that but I can''t do it to much cos I'm point guard here so I allways feel responsibility to be first in defence.

EU: Any thing to share or say to your family in Latvia or fans back in Kazahkstan or Belarus?

EC: I want to say few thing's to young basketball players as well as any young people - never loose faith in your self and work on your weakneses doesn't matter is it on the court or outside basketball court lines. Fallow your dream's by changing things in present and do what ever it takes to come true your dream's. Also I'm sincerely thankfull to my FAMILY my GF- Oksana for support specially in hard moments. Also my friends and all people around me every day who gives me energy to contnue improving and developing as basketball player and as person. And thank's for this nice interview.

WE AT EUROBASKET WOULD LIKE TO WISH EDGARS A STRONG FINISH TO THE 1st HALF OF THE SEASON & WE LOOK TO HEAR MORE GREAT THINGS FROM HIM IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. BEST SWISHES EDGARS!


Standings - KML
KML Standings
 1. Tartu Ulikool 12-1 
 2. Kalev/Cramo 9-1 
 3. Tarvas 7-4 
 4. Rapla 6-6 
 5. TTU/Kalev 6-7 
 6. Tln Kalev 4-8 
 7. Parnu 2-10 
 8. Valga/CKE 2-11 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Illimar PILK
  TT.
  (195-F-88)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Pilk, TT.18.5 
 2. Cipruss, Tarvas16.5 
 3. Raap, Parnu16.0 
 4. Veideman, Tartu U.15.9 
 5. Soo, Rapla15.8 
 6. Raadik, Parnu15.8 
 7. Raley-Ross, Tln K.15.3 
 8. Arnold, TT.14.2 
 9. Hallik, Tarvas13.9 
 10. Sokk, Tartu Uliko.12.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Cipruss, Tarvas10.1 
 2. Arnold, TT.9.3 
 3. Adedeji, Va.8.8 
 4. Ringmets, Rapla8.0 
 5. Cricelli, Va.8.0 
 6. Fedortchuk, Tln K.7.6 
 7. Amis, Tartu Ulikool7.5 
 8. Raadik, Tartu Ulik.7.0 
 9. Keedus, TT.6.8 
 10. Allingu, Tartu U.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Va.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Cunda, Va.4.7 
 2. Pilk, TT.3.8 
 3. Raap, Parnu3.7 
 4. Kriisa, Tarvas3.6 
 5. Dorbek, Tarvas3.6 
 6. Laane, Rapla3.3 
 7. Keedus, TT.3.0 
 8. Skele, Kalev/Cramo3.0 
 9. Saage, Tartu Uliko.2.8 
 10. Veideman, Tartu U.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Edgars CUNDA
  Va.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Cunda, Va.2.5 
 2. Dorbek, Tarvas2.2 
 3. Karner, Parnu2.2 
 4. Leppik, Tartu Ulik.2.2 
 5. Kaldre, Rapla2.1 
 6. Laane, Rapla1.9 
 7. Roos, Tln Kalev1.8 
 8. Saage, Tartu Uliko.1.8 
 9. Cricelli, Va.1.8 
 10. Raley-Ross, Tln K.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo2.1 
 2. Amis, Tartu Ulikool1.5 
 3. Raadik, Parnu1.3 
 4. Fedortchuk, Tln K.1.3 
 5. Adedeji, Va.1.0 
 6. Varbanov, Kalev/Cr.0.9 
 7. Raadik, Tartu Ulik.0.8 
 8. Makke, TT.0.8 
 9. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.7 
 10. Vaino, Tarvas0.6 


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


Jerusalem signs McCamey - by Philip Mulryne
Former Ilinois guard Demetri McCamey (190-G-89, college: Illinois) left Mersin and signed with already eliminated Eurocup team Hapoel Jerusalem. McCamey had 7.0 points on average during his 7 games. The team has a decent run in Israeli league, managed to beat Maccabi Tel Aviv but recently lost to Hapoel Holon and BC Donetsk successively and was looking for a replacement for Avery Bradley. The southern team of Turkey, Mersin had Anthony Grundy and Vincent Grier on scoresheet prominently and McCamey had limited time with 19.6 mins this season.

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


Unics sets defensive record - by Eurobasket News
Unics Kazan set a Euroleague record for the fewest points allowed in one half of a regular season game when it stopped Asseco Prokom Gdynia on 11 in the first half of Thursday's game. The dominant defensive presence of head coach Evgeny Pashutins side also tied a record for fewest points allowed in the second quarter with 5. The previous record for fewest points allowed in one half of a regular season game was 14, set by CSKA Moscow when it limited Krka Novo Mesto to that amount in the second half of an 89-35 victory in November 2003. The record for fewest points allowed in a half of any Euroleague game remains 9, set by Olympiacos against Montepaschi Siena in the opening game of the Playoffs last season.

Courtesy of Euroleague

Regular season: Exciting Round 9 - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Olympiakos - Bennet Cantu 86-61
Olympiakos booked a spot for the Euroleague Top 16 after they blasted already-qualified Bennet Cantu with 25-point margin, 86-61. Both teams have 5-4 record now in Group A. Fenerbahce Ulker and Caja Laboral have the same numbers, but they still fight for the next stage. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up for the hosts with 22 points and 5 assists. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) had 14 points and 5 rebs, while Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80) and Kyle Hines (198-F-86) followed with 12 points each. For the guests, Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 17 points. Their second scorer was Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) with 9 pts. Olympiakos won all four periods in this meeting and 12-0 run between both halves was the crucial one. Quarters: 18-12, 20-17, 25-15, 23-17. Olympiacos goes to Nancy for the last game of the regular season. Cantu waits Fenerbahce Ulker in Fener's do or die game.

Fener.Ulker - Gescrap BB 70-80
Bilbao did a great job in Istanbul on Thursday night. The Spanish squad downed Feberbahce Ulker 70-80 keeping their Top 16 hopes alive. Bilbao has 4-5 record in Group B, while Fener dropped to 5-4. However, Fener still controls its own destiny and can advance to the Top 16 with a win at Bennet Cantu next week. D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia) led visitors with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Roger Grimau (196-G-79, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) scored 13, Aaron Jackson (193-G-86, college: Duquesne) had 11 points and 6 assists, while Marko Banic (205-F-84) helped with 10 points. For the hosts, Emir Preldzic (205-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) shined top-scored with 19 points and 7 rebs. James Gist (205-F-86) (5 rebs), Roko-Leni Ukic (196-G-84) and Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) netted 11 points each. Bilbao made double-digit lead during the first ten minutes and later managed to keep it. Quarters: 14-25, 19-19, 17-23, 20-13. Bilbao will host Caja Laboral next week. As mentioned above, Fener will play against Bennet Cantu as a guest.

Caja Laboral - Nancy 90-55
Caja Laboral made a huge step forward to Top 16 phase. The Vitoria team smashed Nancy 90-55 on Wednesday night for 5-4 record in Group A of the Euroleague regular season. At the other side, the French champion dropped to 3-6 with no chance to reach the next stage. Mirza Teletovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Brad Oleson (191-G-83, agency: Duran International, college: Alaska-Fairb.) and Fernando San Emeterio (198-F/G-84) (5 rebs) followed him with 14 and 13 points respectively. In Nancy, Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) was better than the others with 15 points and 5 rebs. Abdel Kader Sylla (205-C-90) scored 10 points and was the last one with double-digits in this loss. Caja Laboral took control on Nancy from the very beginning and never looked back. Quarters: 22-11, 20-10, 29-9, 19-25. In the last round of the regular season, Caja Laboral goes to Bilbao. Nancy will host Olympiakos.

Group B
CSKA - Panathinaikos 91-75
CSKA Moscow handed another loss to Panathinaikos in the Euroleague regular season. The Russian powerhouse celebrated 91-75 win for 9-0 record in Group B. CSKA already secured the first place in this pool. The reigning Euroleague champion slipped to 6-3 and will finish as No.2. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) dominated in the paint collecting 17 points and 12 rebounds (valuation 31). Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) (7 rebs) and Alexey Shved (5 as) helped the home squad with 16 points each. In PAO, Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) shined with 17 points. Steven Smith (203-F-83, college: La Salle) had 11 and Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) stopped to 9 pts in this meeting. CSKA made crucial 14-0 run at the beginning of the second half and later touched plus 17 during the last period. Quarters: 26-24, 21-25, 28-14, 16-12. Next week, CSKA will go to Malaga. PAO waits Brose Baskets.

KK Zagreb CO - Unicaja 67-82
Unicaja booked a spot for the Euroleague Top 16. The Spanish squad handed 67-82 home loss to Zagreb in crucial game, which was played on Wednesday night. Zagreb dropped to 2-7 in this pool. Unicaja took control on their host in the second and third period, what was enough for them to secure a victory. Unicaja even reached 18-point lead with 3 minutes remaining in the game. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) and Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) stepped up for the guests with 17 and 16 points respectively. Each of them grabbed 8 rebounds in this meeting. Berni Rodriguez (197-F/G-80, agency: Court Side) helped with 11 points. In Zagreb, Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85) shined with 16 points and 7 rebs. Joshua Heytvelt (211-F-86, college: Gonzaga) (5 rebs) and Damir Rancic (199-G-83) scored 12 and 9 pts. Quarters: 22-20, 17-25, 13-20, 15-17. Unicaja waits CSKA in the next round, while Zagreb goes to Kaunas.

Brose Baskets - Zalgiris 68-82
Zalgiris shined when it mattered most and cruised past Brose Baskets in Bamberg 68-82 joining them with 3-6 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. The Lithuanian champions hold a tiebreaker and all they need is a victory at home over KK Zagreb next week to clinch a Top 16 spot. Brose Baskets now needs to win its final regular season game in Athens and hope for a Zalgiris loss. Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) (6 rebs) and Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) scored 14 points each for the winners. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) had 13 and 12 points respectively. For the home squad, Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored with 16 points. Brian Roberts (188-G-85, agency: Interperformances) had 13, and Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, college: San Diego St.) collected 10 points, plus 9 rebs. Zalgiris had amazing first half as they made 14-point lead. Visitors jumped to 34-52 after the breather and Brose Baskets had no chance for rest of the game. Quarters: 13-20, 17-24, 19-14, 19-24. As mentioned above, Zalgiris will host Zagreb next week. Brose Baskets goes to Panathinaikos arena in Athens.

Group C
Maccabi T-A - Anadolu Efes 96-57
Maccabi Electra destroyed Anadolu Efes 96-57 in Round 9 of the Euroleague regular season. The Israeli powerhouse improved to 6-3 record in Group C, while at the same time Efes slipped to third place with 5-4. Both teams already qualified for the Top 16. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) paced the home squad with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists (valuation 25). David Blu (201-F-80, college: USC) top-scored for Maccabi with 18 points, while Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) collected 17 points and 5 rebs. Efes got 12 pts and 5 rebounds from Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84). Their second scorer was Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) (7 as) with just 9 points and Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) (5 rebs) stopped to one less. Maccabi took control on Efes in the second period and smashed them after the breather, especially in the last ten minutes which belonged to Maccabi 31-11. Quarters: 17-20, 19-11, 29-15, 31-11. Maccabi goes to Charleroi in the last round of the regular season. Efes waits Real Madrid.

Armani MI - Spirou 88-53
Emporio Armani demonstrated its power on Wednesday evening. The Milano team blasted Charleroi with huge 88-53 improving to 3-6 record in Group C. It means that Milano still has a chance to reach Top 16 and they will have to beat Partizan next week. The Italians need at least five point win in Belgrade. At the other side, Charleroi closes the standings in this pool with 2-7. Leon Radosevic (208-C-90) netted 17 points for the winners, Malik Hairston (198-G-87, college: Oregon) had 15 and Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) helped with 12 points, plus 13 rebounds. Drew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) (6 as) also scored 12 pts in this meeting. In Charleroi, Andre Riddick (208-C-73, college: Kentucky) (5 rebs) and Jiri Welsch (201-F-80) delivered 12 points each. Amaury Jadin (189-G-86) stopped to one less. Quarters: 23-18, 25-12, 17-16, 23-7. As mentioned above, Milano will play in Belgrade next week, while Charleroi will host Maccabi Electra.

Real Madrid - Partizan 101-83
Real Madrid jumped to 7-2 record in Group C and secured the first place in this pool with one round to go in the Euroleague regular season. Visitors faced with the second straight loss and slipped to 4-5 record. However, Partizan still has a nice chance to reach the Top 16. They need to beat Emporio Armani Milano next weekend in Belgrade, or even to loose with less than 4 points. Jaycee Carroll (188-PG-83, agency: Priority Sports) had 22 points for Real Madrid and Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) added 21 points, 8 rebounds. Mirotic was the MVP of this meeting with valuation 30. Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) added 15 points and 7 rebs. In Partizan, Milan Macvan (206-C-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) top-scored with 16 points and Vladimir Lucic (202-F-89, agency: Beo Basket) had 13. Rasko Katic (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 points. Real Madrid made plus 15 until the halftime, having no troubles to keep their lead for rest of the way. Quarters: 27-15, 25-22, 24-19, 25-27. Real Madrid will meet Anadolu Efes in Istanbul next week. As mentioned above, Partizan waits Milano.

Group D
Unics - Asseco Prokom 68-41
Top 16 qualifier Unics didn't have any problems to blast Asseco Prokom at home on Thursday afternoon by 68-41. The defense of the hosts beat a record in the process as it kept Prokom to 11 points in the first half. The win allows already-qualified Unics to improve its record to 6-3 in Group D while Asseco Prokom who was eliminated before this game, drops to 1-8. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) led the way for the winners with 18 points, Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) added 12 and Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) posted 10. For Prokom, only Jerel Blassingame (175-G-81, college: UNLV) scored in double digits with his 10 points. *Courtesy of Euroleague

Galatasaray - Union Olimpija 80-59
Galatasaray booked a spot for Top 16 in their debut Euroleague season. The Turkish squad had no troubles to beat Union Olimpija on Wednesday night 80-59 for 4-5 record in Group D. Slovenians close the standings in this pool with 1-8. Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) led the scorers in victory with 16 points. Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket) and Furkan Aldemir (207-F-91, agency: Beo Basket) added 11 points and 5 rebounds each. Lakovic and Aldemir reached valuation 21, but Aldemir did it for only 18 minutes on the court. Visitors got 21 points and 7 boards from Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina). Robert Rothbart (217-C-86) had 18 points and 7 rebs, while Erjon Kastrati (197-F/G-94) scored 7 pts. Third period was the crucial one in this meeting as Galatasaray made 20-9 for those ten minutes and later increased its lead even more. Quarters: 18-16, 21-19, 20-9, 21-15. Galatasaray goes to Barcelona next week. Olimpija will host another Euroleague newcomer who already advanced to Top 16 - Unics.

Montepaschi - FCB Regal 77-74
Amazing last quarter helped Montepaschi to beat Regal Barca 77-74 on Thursday night handing the Spanish champion first Euroleague loss of the season. Montepaschi improved its score to 7-2 in Group D, while visitors slipped to 8-1. Barca is the winner of this pool due to great victory against Montepaschi in their first meeting earlier this season. Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) delivered 21 points for Italians and Pietro Aradori (192-G-88) had one less. Nikolaos Zisis (196-G-83) netted 16 points in this victory. In Barca, Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) was way better than the others with 22 points and 5 rebounds (valuation 29). Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina) scored 14 and Pete Mickeal (199-F-78, college: Cincinnati) stopped to 9 pts. With 26 seconds to go in the game, Aradori gave Siena the lead on two foul shots, 75-74, then Rakocevic added more points from the line as the hosts completed a thrilling comeback to take the win 77-74. Quarters: 23-20, 13-15, 11-24, 30-15. In the last round of the regular season Montapeschi will play against Asseco Prokom in Gdynia. Barca will host Galatasaray.

Krstic's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old center Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) put on an amazing game in the last round for CSKA Moscow and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
He had a double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds, while his team crushed Panathinaikos (6-3) with 16-point margin 91-75. CSKA jumped to 9-0 record and secured first place in Group B. Krstic turned to be CSKA's top player in his first season with the team. Krstic has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (9th best: 15.8ppg), rebounds (4th best: 7.2rpg) and averages solid 58.0% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84) of FCB Regal. He is Slovenian forward in his 3rd season at FCB Regal. In the last game Lorbek recorded impressive 22 points and 5 rebounds. Bad luck as FCB Regal was edged by Montepaschi (7-2) 77-74. FCB Regal still maintains its place as the top team in the standings (Group D), even despite this loss. It was just their 1st loss this season, while they won 8 other games. Lorbek is one of the most experienced players at FCB Regal and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Nikola Mirotic (209-F/C-91) of Real Madrid. Mirotic scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of Real Madrid, leading his team to a 101-83 easy win against ranked Partizan. Real Madrid confirms their top position in Group C. Their record at this point is 7 victories and 2 lost games. Mirotic has a very solid season. In 9 games in Euroleague he scored 12.2ppg. He also has 4.7rpg and FGP: 61.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) of CSKA - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
5. D'or Fischer (211-C-81) of Gescrap BB - 16 points and 10 rebounds
6. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85) of Maccabi T-A - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Deon Thompson (203-F-88) of Union Olimpija - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85) of Panathinaikos - 17 points
9. Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) of Real Madrid - 15 points and 7 rebounds
10. Pietro Aradori (192-G-88) of Montepaschi - 20 points and 4 rebounds

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

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mirza TELETOVIC
  Caja L.
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 23.1
 1. Teletovic, Caja L.23.1 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympia.19.8 
 3. McCalebb, Montepa.17.9 
 4. Carroll, Real Madr.17.4 
 5. Weems, Zalgiris17.2 
 6. Mallet, Spirou16.9 
 7. Domercant, Unics16.6 
 8. Gallinari, Armani16.4 
 9. Krstic, CSKA15.8 
 10. Batum, Nancy15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 9
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA9.0 
 2. Motiejunas, Asseco8.2 
 3. Macvan, Partizan7.9 
 4. Krstic, CSKA7.2 
 5. Freeland, Unicaja7.2 
 6. Akingbala, Nancy6.9 
 7. Slaughter, Brose B.6.9 
 8. Bourousis, Armani6.8 
 9. Batum, Nancy6.7 
 10. May, KK.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Sergio RODRIGUEZ
  Real M.
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6
 1. Rodriguez, Real M.6.0 
 2. Teodosic, CSKA5.4 
 3. Huertas, FCB Regal5.2 
 4. Batum, Nancy5.2 
 5. Diamantidis, Panat.5.2 
 6. Spanoulis, Olympia.4.9 
 7. Cook, Armani MI4.8 
 8. Tunceri, Anadolu4.8 
 9. Prigioni, Caja L.4.7 
 10. Blassingame, Asse.4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA2.2 
 2. Prigioni, Caja L.2.2 
 3. Sefolosha, Fener.U.2.1 
 4. Slaughter, Brose B.1.9 
 5. Gordon, Galatasaray1.8 
 6. Eidson, FCB Regal1.7 
 7. Batum, Nancy1.7 
 8. Gist, Fener.Ulker1.7 
 9. Linehan, Nancy1.7 
 10. Lafayette, Assec.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Kirilenko, CSKA3.2 
 2. Ibaka, Real Madrid2.0 
 3. Riddick, Spirou1.8 
 4. Begic, Real Madrid1.6 
 5. Ilyasova, Anadolu1.5 
 6. Vazquez, FCB Regal1.3 
 7. Perovic, FCB Regal1.3 
 8. Slaughter, Brose B.1.1 
 9. Fischer, Gescrap BB1.1 
 10. Veremeenko, Unics1.0 


Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Caja Laboral 5-4 
 2. Olympiakos 5-4 
 3. Fener.Ulker 5-4 
 4. Bennet Cantu 5-4 
 5. Gescrap BB 4-5 
 6. Nancy 3-6 
Group B
 1. CSKA 9-0 
 2. Panathinaikos 6-3 
 3. Unicaja 4-5 
 4. Zalgiris 3-6 
 5. Brose Baskets 3-6 
 6. KK Zagreb CO 2-7 
Group C
 1. Real Madrid 7-2 
 2. Maccabi T-A 6-3 
 3. Anadolu Efes 5-4 
 4. Partizan 4-5 
 5. Armani MI 3-6 
 6. Spirou 2-7 
Group D
 1. FCB Regal 8-1 
 2. Montepaschi 7-2 
 3. Unics 6-3 
 4. Galatasaray 4-5 
 5. Union Olimpija 1-8 
 6. Asseco Prokom 1-8 


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


KORISLIIGA: Bisons and Pyrinto winning - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 18: Two games, no upsets tonight. Bisons (Loimaa) defeating Vilpas (Salo) 88-66 (42-31) and Pyrinto (Tampere) beating YMCA Lappeenranta 82-71 (38-36). At Loimaa Bisons got a slow start, but were ahead by 11 already during the half time. Bisons had four players in double digits. Ryan McDade (201-F-80, college: N.Arizona) led the hosts with 17 pts. Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.) gave 10 assists. Vilpas still missing the third American player. Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86, college: Illinois St.) led Vilpas Vikings with 17 pts. In Tampere Antero Lehto (184-G-84) led local Pyrinto with 21 pts. Antwine Williams (192-F-75, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: N.Colorado) and Kenneth Lowe (192-G-80, college: Purdue) added 19 pts both. Tyler Tiedeman (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Boise St.) scored 19 pts for YMCA LPR. The Christmas break starting on Sunday Dec 18 and lasting 10-11 days.
Bisons - Vilpas 88-66 (42-31). (Ryan Mcdade 17, Jeb Ivey 16/10a, Matti Nuutinen 16/9 - Emmanuel Holloway 17, Roope Ahonen 16, John Fields 11/13. A: 918).
Pyrinto - YMCA LPR 82-71 (38-36). (Antero Lehto 21, Antwine Williams 19/7, Kenneth Lowe 19 - Tyler Tiedeman 19/6a, Lawrence Hamm 18/8, Pasi Riihela 13. A: 958).
1. Division:
BC Jyvaskyla - FoKoPo 80-85 (36-47). (Jarno Nissinen 20/9, Lance Storrs 17/9, Jani Parkkinen 18 - Sami Ikavalko 18, Tracy Robinson 14/17, HL Coleman 14/13).
Tarmo - BC Nokia 55-93 (24-37). (Benzor Simmons 20/8, Shawn Henderson 14, Teemu Hartikainen 9 - Darren Townes 20/11, Timo Riihela 20, Gerald January 15/14).



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


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


Standings - ProB
ProB Standings
 1. Boulazac 10-2 
 2. Limoges 9-3 
 3. Boulogne 8-4 
 4. Chalons-Reims 8-4 
 5. Fos Ouest 8-4 
 6. Bordeaux 7-5 
 7. Maurienne 7-5 
 8. St Vallier 7-6 
 9. Evreux 6-6 
 10. Le Portel 6-7 
 11. Nantes 6-7 
 12. Rouen 5-7 
 13. Bourg 5-8 
 14. Lille 5-8 
 15. Antibes 5-8 
 16. Denain 4-8 
 17. Quimper 4-8 
 18. Vichy 1-11 
 19. St Etienne 0-0 


Standings - N1
NM1 Standings
 1. Charleville 11-2 
 2. St Quentin 10-3 
 3. Sorgues 9-4 
 4. Souffel 9-4 
 5. Cognac 9-5 
 6. Blois 8-5 
 7. Orchy 8-5 
 8. Roche 8-5 
 9. Brest 7-6 
 10. Challans 7-6 
 11. Chartres 7-6 
 12. Lievin 7-7 
 13. Angers BC 49 6-7 
 14. Clermont 4-9 
 15. Le Puy 3-10 
 16. Rueil 3-10 
 17. CFBB 1-12 
 18. Montbrison 1-12 


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Chatfield, Paris-.21.7 
 2. Parker, AS.20.3 
 3. Rochestie, Le Mans20.0 
 4. Morlende, Hyeres-T.19.0 
 5. Cox, Le Havre18.4 
 6. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.18.3 
 7. Nelson, Cholet18.0 
 8. Batum, Nancy17.1 
 9. Schilb, Chalon16.5 
 10. Hamilton, Paris-.16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ian MAHINMI
  Le Havre
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Mahinmi, Le Havre8.8 
 2. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.8.6 
 3. Akingbala, Nancy8.3 
 4. Hamilton, Paris-.8.1 
 5. Sommerville, Le Ma.7.7 
 6. Jackson, Roanne7.6 
 7. Aminu, Chalon7.3 
 8. Allen, Strasbourg7.2 
 9. Krupalija, Hyeres.6.7 
 10. Armstrong, AS.6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon10.8 
 2. Rochestie, Le Mans6.9 
 3. Wise, Le Havre6.4 
 4. Parker, AS.6.3 
 5. Linehan, Nancy5.8 
 6. Barrett, Roanne5.4 
 7. Pellin, Orleans5.3 
 8. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.5.0 
 9. Schilb, Chalon4.7 
 10. Dixon, Dijon4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Alex ACKER
  Le Mans
  (196-G-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Acker, Le Mans2.3 
 2. Albicy, Gravelines2.2 
 3. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.2.2 
 4. Riley, Nanterre2.1 
 5. Batum, Nancy2.1 
 6. Sangare, Orleans2.1 
 7. Wise, Le Havre2.0 
 8. Linehan, Nancy2.0 
 9. Goss, AS.1.9 
 10. Pellin, Orleans1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Ronny TURIAF
  AS.
  (208-C/F-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Turiaf, AS.1.8 
 2. Gobert, Cholet1.6 
 3. Akingbala, Nancy1.3 
 4. Jackson, Roanne1.3 
 5. Williams, Paris-.1.3 
 6. Issa, Gravelines1.2 
 7. Batum, Nancy1.1 
 8. Falker, Cholet1.0 
 9. Nichols, Cholet1.0 
 10. Roberts, Hyeres-T.1.0 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 Chris MCCRAY
  Boulogne
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. McCray, Boulogne20.9 
 2. Davis, Le Portel18.8 
 3. Sonko, Bourg18.5 
 4. Denave, St Vallier18.4 
 5. Gay, Fos Ouest17.2 
 6. Wood, Evreux17.1 
 7. Paelay, Quimper16.8 
 8. Rowland, Evreux15.8 
 9. Barro, Bourg15.8 
 10. Siggers, Rouen15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeremiah WOOD
  Evreux
  (200-C/F-85)
  Avg: 12
 1. Wood, Evreux12.0 
 2. Massie, Limoges11.8 
 3. Monroe, Boulazac9.5 
 4. Rossiter, Denain9.4 
 5. Badiane, Antibes9.3 
 6. Osby, Maurienne9.0 
 7. Allen, Antibes8.8 
 8. Prowell, St Vallier8.8 
 9. Barro, Bourg8.7 
 10. Badiane, Nantes8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Taylor, Le Portel7.5 
 2. Copeland, Bourg5.8 
 3. Rowland, Evreux5.7 
 4. Darnauzan, Mauri.5.6 
 5. Sauret, Lille5.2 
 6. Choquet, Fos Ouest4.9 
 7. Denave, St Vallier4.9 
 8. Mullins, Chalons-.4.9 
 9. Patiejunas, Rouen4.6 
 10. Darrigand, Bordea.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Armand CHARLES
  Nantes
  (193-SF-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Charles, Nantes2.9 
 2. McCray, Boulogne2.6 
 3. Shiloh, St Vallier2.5 
 4. Paelay, Quimper2.5 
 5. James, Denain2.5 
 6. Eito, Vichy2.1 
 7. Flowers, Vichy2.0 
 8. Denave, St Vallier1.9 
 9. Allen, Antibes1.9 
 10. Driss, Bordeaux1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-PF-82)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Gay, Fos Ouest1.9 
 2. Badiane, Antibes1.6 
 3. Daniels, Chalons-.1.3 
 4. Prowell, St Vallier1.2 
 5. Osby, Maurienne1.1 
 6. Massie, Limoges1.1 
 7. James, Denain1.0 
 8. Ford, Bordeaux1.0 
 9. Badiane, Nantes1.0 
 10. Rossiter, Denain0.9 


Stats Leaders - N1
Points Per Game
 Jahsha BLUNTT
  Orchy
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Bluntt, Orchy18.8 
 2. Thomas, Roche18.6 
 3. Almanson, Challans18.0 
 4. Belser, Charleville17.8 
 5. Bigote, Cognac17.6 
 6. Pridotkas, Brest17.5 
 7. Kaunisto, Blois17.1 
 8. Petrovic, Orchy16.5 
 9. Koundjia-S., Le Puy16.5 
 10. St Robert, Montb.16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Kaunisto, Blois11.3 
 2. Caskill, Cognac10.4 
 3. Jaiteh, CFBB10.4 
 4. Sanborn, Lievin9.6 
 5. Pridotkas, Brest9.4 
 6. Pearson, Angers B.8.4 
 7. Mendy, Lievin8.4 
 8. Aubry, Montbrison8.3 
 9. Diame, Rueil7.6 
 10. McClark, Clermont7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Rathieuville, Brest6.7 
 2. Calvez, Charleville5.6 
 3. Brochard, Blois5.5 
 4. Barbry, Orchy5.2 
 5. Daube, Le Puy5.0 
 6. Ball, St Quentin4.4 
 7. Berquier, Chartres4.3 
 8. Godin, Cognac4.3 
 9. Dessart, Lievin4.3 
 10. Cortey, Clermont4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Damien PISTRE
  Charleville
  (190-G-83)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Pistre, Charleville2.4 
 2. Toto N''Kote, Roche2.1 
 3. Bigote, Cognac1.9 
 4. Bassine, Sorgues1.8 
 5. Calvez, Charleville1.8 
 6. Kaunisto, Blois1.8 
 7. Koundjia-S., Le Puy1.8 
 8. Gourari, Rueil1.7 
 9. Godin, Cognac1.6 
 10. Dessart, Lievin1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Abdoulaye N''DIAYE
  Souffel
  (210-C/F-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. N''Diaye, Souffel2.0 
 2. Alingue, Souffel1.8 
 3. Caskill, Cognac1.4 
 4. Morin, CFBB1.2 
 5. Tornato, Blois1.1 
 6. Sanborn, Lievin1.1 
 7. Ipouck, Chartres1.0 
 8. Mendy, Lievin1.0 
 9. Borval, Le Puy0.9 
 10. Jaiteh, CFBB0.9 


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


Defeats for Feni Industri and Torus in Balkan league - by Eurobasket News
Feni Industrija and Torus faced with defeats in Round Five of the Balkan league.
The reigning Macedonian and BIBL champion failed in thriller against Levski in Sofia 67-66. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Feni Indistrija. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 20-17 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. They outrebounded Feni Indistrija 42-30 including 30 on the defensive glass. Big guy Vasil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) stepped up and scored 9 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and American guard Marcus Hall (185-G-85, college: Colorado) chipped in 20 points. Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88) responded with 21 points and power forward Kiril Nikolovski (210-C/F-88) scored 10 points and 9 rebounds. Feni Indistrija's coach Emil Rajkovic tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Levski Sofia have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place in Group B with 5-0 record. Defending FYR Macedonian champion Feni Indistrija keeps the third position with two games lost. Levski Sofia is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Zrinjski HT (#6) in Mostar in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Feni Indistrija will play at home against Ulcinj in Ulcijn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Torus Skopje also failed on the road and its rival was Galil Gilboa in Israel, 85-62. The game was mostly controlled by Galil Gilboa. Torus Skopje managed to win third quarter 24-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Torus Skopje to just 6 points in second quarter. Galil Gilboa shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 57.1 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Dagan Yavzuri (193-G-85) who scored 17 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. American Courtney Fells (198-SF-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) chipped in 17 points. Five Galil Gilboa players scored in double figures. American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M-CC) produced 13 points and 8 rebounds and the other American import guard Jeremiah Boswell (194-G-82) added 17 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) respectively for the guests. 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 fifth consecutive win for Galil Gilboa. They maintain first place in Group A with 5-0 record. Loser Torus Skopje keeps the fourth position with three games lost. Galil Gilboa will meet league's second-placed Rilski Sportist in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Torus Skopje will play against Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
All four teams will take a rest until January 17.

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


Zalgiris takes crucial win in Bamberg - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets - Zalgiris 68-82

Zalgiris shined when it mattered most and cruised past Brose Baskets in Bamberg 68-82 joining them with 3-6 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. The Lithuanian champions hold a tiebreaker and all they need is a victory at home over KK Zagreb next week to clinch a Top 16 spot. Brose Baskets now needs to win its final regular season game in Athens and hope for a Zalgiris loss. Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) (6 rebs) and Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) scored 14 points each for the winners. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) had 13 and 12 points respectively. For the home squad, Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored with 16 points. Brian Roberts (188-G-85, agency: Interperformances) had 13, and Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, college: San Diego St.) collected 10 points, plus 9 rebs. Zalgiris had amazing first half as they made 14-point lead. Visitors jumped to 34-52 after the breather and Brose Baskets had no chance for rest of the game. Quarters: 13-20, 17-24, 19-14, 19-24. As mentioned above, Zalgiris will host Zagreb next week. Brose Baskets goes to Panathinaikos arena in Athens.

Brose Baskets: Predrag Suput 16, Brian Roberts 13, Marcus Slaughter 10+9 boards
Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 14+6 boards, Mantas Kalnietis 14, Marko Popovic 13, Tomas Delininkaitis 12

Can The Fraport Skyliners Ruin The Pre Christmas Feast For The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig December 18? - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
With Christmas only a week away, folks of all ages will be having the holiday season on their mind, like thinking if there will be a white Christmas in New York city, what one can give Miss have it all Paris Hilton for Christmas, can the Miami Dolphins upend Tom terrific Brady and the New England Patriots on Christmas eve, or who would be the perfect substitute for the white bearded Santa Claus, Mickey Rooney, Leslie Nielsen or Tim Allen? However on December 18th, The Fraport Skyliners will have clash with 2011 beko BBL cup finalist New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig and for at least two hours, stockings, eggnog, presents, Christmas caroling, and Rudolph the Reindeer will be secondary. Young fans in the Volkswagon arena in Braunschweig wont be dreaming of presents an dif Santa Claus can really fit through the chimney with his chubby stomach, but will be hoping of athletic and stimulating take offs to the hoop by Quantez Robertson, no look passes from Immanuel Mcelroy who could ask Jermareo Davidson some advice of how to cover your body correctly with additional tattoos, Robert Kulawick three point bombs from the corner, and making bets when Johannes Herber will cut or trim his overwhelming long beard. Fans come into the arenas to enjoy basketball anytime and might forget that players this season wont be in their real home for Christmas dinner, but in their home from home in Germany trying to tell their little children that Santa Claus has to use the balcony to distribute presents. The Beko BBL continues to make it very difficult for the players to find any kind of Christmas spirit. We play in Oldenburg on December 27th and have to practice on the 24th, 25th and 26th. One of my favorite things at Christmas is having home made goose. My mom cooks it and is the best cook in the world, stressed Walter Tigers Tuebingen forward Ruben Spoden. Sure it is tough being away from home during the holiday season but it is part of your job and even if you want to be back at home, you have to still perform and make the best out the situations that you are put in, added TBB Trier guard John Bynum.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig continue to be very solid and consistent as they reached the Beko BBL playoffs the last two years including the 2011 cup final and are looking to reach their third playoffs this year. Last season, the club finished in fifth place with a strong 20-14 record losing a tough and hard fought five game quarterfinal playoff series against The Artland Dragons. After a slow start where they went 3-5 including a four game losing streak, the club rebounded nicely posting a 11-4 record until they met Frankfurt and lost in mid February. 'I do think that Braunschweig was stronger last season, gothen two years a. They had a lot of weapons at the offensive end and played really good basketball, and they were a contender and one of the top teams in the BBL. I think they showed that they were a team that could scare people in the playoffs and be capable of beating top teams as well. They got better and better each week', warned John Bynum. Their three biggest wins this season all came at home and show that they arent scared of any top teams as they defeated Alba Berlin, The Telekom Baskets Bonn and The EWE Baskets Oldenburg 'I think their strength last season was that they had a lot of guys that can score the ball and play really good team basketball. They had great guard play and guys on the perimeter that can play multiple positions. Weaknesses that is a tough one, but if I would say anything it would be depth down low', warned John Bynum. TBB Trier did beat Braunschweig 74-65, but Bynum remembers the game well. 'They really had good guard play and that stood out the most. The guards were always attacking and making plays and Visser and Cain as well as Goree played solid underneath the basket', stressed John Bynum. Braunschweig finished the season with huge wins in Bremerhaven, Goettingen and Bonn.

Despite the big success the last two seasons, the club was unable to hold a core of the players as they did a gigantic hose cleaning letting go nine players. Guys like Kevin Hamilton, Brandon Thomas, Tony Skin Marcus Goree and Jason Cain were the main support of the team as they averaged combined 55 points out of the team 77 points. Despite so many guys leaving, the club still was able to hold onto some important components like Mr New Jersey Lamarr Greer who can score from downtown Jersey city, inside magnate kyle Visser, 221cm tree and biggest player in the Beko BBL Nick Schneiders and mr versatile and captain Nils Mittmann. During the team shopping spree last summer, the club got a beko BBl star and fan magnate Immanuel Mcelroy who has been the top defender in the league before Luka Pavicevic arrived in Berlin in 2007, strong shooter Robert Kulawick, vestaile Branko Jorovic that adds a taste of Serbia to the team, Stephen Dennis who is an interesting and talented point guard who has had inquiries from the NBA and experienced Rich Melzer who gets a second chance in the Beko BBL after having a short stint in 2007 with the Artland Dragons. The team seems not to be as strong as last season on paper and reaching the playoffs this year wont be a cakewalk as the league has gotten stronger each season. If we reach the playoffs, then it is a good season, stressed Braunschweig head coach Sebastian Machowski. Tuebingen Forward Ruben Spoden played against them last season and already this season and is impressed of them. Last season they had many great players like Marcus Goree and two point guards on the court with Hamilton and Skinn, but this years team is different. They have a super team with great players and the mix seems to be rght especially with Immanuel Mcelroy on board, stressed Ruben Spoden. Braunscweig has been up and down but can compete with everyone in the the BBL. They have good guard play and some big men to compliment their style of play, commented John Bynum.

This season, The New Yorker Braunschweig have a 6-5 record and have been up and down. They do have positive records At home 3-2 and on the road 3-3. Their biggest wins were a road win in Oldenburg where it is never easy to exit with a victory and big wins at home against the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg and the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. They also suffered a bitter 72-71 loss at home against the Artland Dragons, a 70-69 win in Ludwigsburg and a total collapse in Tuebingen losing by 31 points. Braunschweig is still far from having found their total potential and as soon as they get their rhythm will add a dynamic spark to the playoff race. Braunschweig is a team that can beat any team in the Beko BBL on a good day. They have a very balanced team. They have a top center with Kyle Visser who has nice moves, two strong shooters with Nils Mittmann and Robert Kulawick, an allrounder with Mcelroy, a super point guard with Stephen Dennis who is quick and takes care of the ball and Rich Melzer who is a very aggressive rebounder, stressed Ruben Spoden. After losing Nick Williams, the club does have a weakness. They dont have a real back up point guard. Dennis Schroeder is a big talent and I am happy that he can play so much, but he is still developing. The team hasnt found their rhythm yet, but they will be atotally different team in the second half of the season, stressed Ruben Spoden. I think their strength is their guards. I really haven't saw them much but I think if there guards play well, then they are tough to beat. I think their weakness is depth down low. If Visser Or Melzer get in foul trouble then you can attack them down low on a more consistent basis, warned John Bynum.

The Fraport Skyliners want to go into Christmas with a win on the road in Braunschweig This will be a huge test for Frankfurt as Braunschweig is one of those teams that will be around the playoff places come May. Both regular season games last season were nail bitters and this could be another game that could be decided in the last minute. Frankfurt has to speed the game up and attack in transition. They also have to pressure the ball on the defensive end and make speed the tempo up like I said before. Braunschweig has to keep it a half court game run their sets and make Frankfurt play defense. Defensively I think you have to make someone else besides Mckinney make plays, warned John Bynum. Frankfurt has to be aggressive and attack their pick and roll defense and try to get Kyle Visser into foul trouble and control the rebounds, added Josh Young. The Fraport Skyliners have lost 13 of the last 14 games and will need for then just their fighting spirit to exit the Volkswagon Halle with a victory. We have to continue to play our style. We have to rebound better and it is always key to have a low number of turnovers. We also need to continue to keep Burtschi involved, stressed Michael Thompson. Mckinney as won most of his games as a Skyliner against Braunschweig and should transform some of his current confidence to his teammates. We have to go into that game and play with confidence and aggressive and control the boards and limit our turnovers, added Jimmy Mckinney. New Skyliner Jacob Burtschi will be playing his first Beko BBL game with Frankfurt and already seems to have done his homework on the plane ride from Spain to Frankfurt. Braunschweig is a top 8 team, are tough and have lost some tough games. We have to play at least 35 minutes of very good basketball, warned Jacob Burtschi (198-F-84, college: Air Force)

The Fraport Skyliners have had very very fond memories of The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig as they have a 12-1 record since March 11th, 2006 as Braunschweig won 81-76 then. The two most memorable games were from the 2008-2009 season. Who could forget the 68-58 win in the cup game which brought Frankfurt to the TOP 4 in Hamburg. That game displayed the best performance by guard Adam Emmenecker who came out of his shell and proved he has no nervous shooting hand as he left captain Pascal Roller on the bench as he had the hot hand leading the team with 13 points. However in the regular season game in Braunschweig, Roller got his revenge as he led the team to a 55-53 win as his last minute clutch jumper paved the way to the win. In 2009-2010, Frankfurt swept the series winning 81-77 as Frankfurt came from behind to win as Aubrey Reese poured in 21 points and prevailed at home 71-62 as Derrick Allen steered 18 points to the triumph. In teh first game this season, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners pulled out a thrilling 94-91 win at home. Frankfurt fought back in the fourth quarter as they came back from being behind 90-87 and close out the game on a 7-0 run as Skyliner captain Pascal Roller hit a huge three pointer and Dashaun Wood a shot. Frankfurt did a fantastic job distributing the ball as seven players scored in double figures led by Pascal Roller and Kimmo Muurinen with 13 points a piece. Frankfurt dominated the boards 38-24. Last season, the Skyliners were 2-1and stretched their winning streak to 12 games as they won two memorable games winning 94-91 at home as they finished the game with a 7-0 run capped by a big three pointer by Pascal Roller. Seven players scored in double figures and nobody scored more than 13 points. In the return date in Braunschweig, Frankfurt pulled out a nail bitter 68-67 as Frankfurt was down 67-65 and Frankfurt won the game on their last possession as Dashaun Wood scored on a penetration and got the free throw to fall. Kimmo Muurinen led Frankfurt with 20 points.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig are led by Rich Melzer who is a 32 year old 203cm power forward that was born in Minneapolis. He played at : Wisconsim-River Falls (NCAA3) from 2001-2004. Despite playing NCAA 3 ball, he has had a very steady professional basketball career. As a rookie, he played at the Washington Wizards (NBA) pre-season camp: waived in Oct.'04, next month signed at Sioux Falls Skyforce (CBA, starting five): 47 games: 9.0ppg, 4.5rpg, FGP: 43%, 3Pts: 39.8%. Since then, he has played in countries like the Dominican Republic, France, Israel and even had a very short stint with the Artland Dragons in 2007. He also has played in countries like new Zealand and Australia. Last season, he played for Hapoel Holon (Israel-Premier League, starting five): 30 games: 16.8ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 48.6%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 75.3%. Kyle Visser is a 26 year old 211cm center from Grand Rapids, Michigan that is returning to Braunschweig for his fourth season and played for The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig from 2007-2009. In 2009-2010, he played for EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 10.7ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT-2 (50.0%), FT: 55.7%. He played at Wake Forest from 2003-2007 and was a teammate with NBA top point guard Chris Paul and Skyliner Justin Gray. He is a center who still hasnt reached his fullest potential and could have his breakthrough year this season. Last season for Braunschweig, he played 38 games: 9.2ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 60.2%, FT: 60.2%.
Lamaar Greer is a 35 year old 196cm guard from New Jersey. Already in high school, he was a known player as he grew up in Cape May Court House and played his high school ball at Middle Township. He was the New Jersey High School Player of the Year in 1994 and led Middle Township to two Group II state titles. As a second team Parade All-American, he scored 13 points in the McDonald's All-Star game and had 16 points and 10 assists in Magic's Roundball Classic. He played at Florida State from 1994-1998. Since turning professional in 1998, he has played in countries like Italy (3 years with teams like Record Napoli (Italy-A2, Media Broker Messina (Italy-Lega2), and Pompea Napoli (Italy-LegaA). He also played in Russia for Uniks Kazan and three years for BC Kyiv (Ukraine-Superleague) from 2004-2007. In the last three years, he played in Greece, Cyprus, Jordan and Israel. In 2009-2010, he played for ASU Sports Club (Jordan-Premier League, starting five), in Dec.'09 moved to Ironi Nahariya (Israel-Premier League): 14 games: 14.9ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.8apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 64.5%. Last season with Braunschweig, he played 36 games: 10.8ppg, 1.7rpg, 1.8apg, FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 78.6% He has played 44 Eurocup games in his career. Stephen Dennis is a 24 year old 198cm point guard from Pennsylvania that is playing his second professional season and first with Braunschweig. He had a strong college career at Kutztown (NCAA2) and in his senior year averaged 26.4ppg, 5.8rpg, 4.5apg, 2.1spg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 48.3%, 3Pts: 32.1%, FT: 75.2%. As a rookie, he knocked on the NBA door with the Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), only pre-season, then moved to Bakersfield Jam (D-League) playing 51 games: 10.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 47.2%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 75.0%.

31 year old 193cm guard Immanuel Mcelroy is playing his first season with the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig after successful years in Cologne and Berlin. He played at Cincinnati (NCAA) and reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2001. He already made a name for himself winning titles with Rhein Energy Cologne His overall quickness, combined with his mental toughness, makes him well-suited as a defender in the attacking defense. He is very athletic, a 40-inch vertical jump and a bench press approaching 300 pounds, ability to break defenders down with his dribble and his explosiveness to the basket makes him an effective scorer. He also possesses good court vision and excellent ball-handling skills, giving him the ability to distribute the ball, particularly in the transition game. He is a natural leader who makes others around him better players. He also has very much experience having won three BBL cups and two BBL league titles. If you want to slow down Mcelroy, you have to deny him the ball and give him the jump shot until he starts to make some, warned Omari Westley. Mcelroy who has never been known as a good shooter has really improved his shooting the last few years. Mcelroy may not score 20 points every night, but he belongs to the top players in the BEKO BBL, because he can really do it all on the court and is also one of the top defenders in the league. The American played at Cologne from 2004-2008 before moving to Alba Berlin in early 2008 as the team had financial difficulties. With Cologne, he was Beko BBL champion in 2006 and won the beko BBL cup in 2005 and 2007. With Alba Berlin, he won the German championship in 2008 and cup in 2009. He is a four time beko BBL Allstar and has played 96 international club games.

Branko Jorovic is a 30 year old 205cm forward from Serbia that is playing his first season in Braunschweig. He is a good forward, who can play in the 3 and 4 positions. Has great rebounding and scoring skills, but his career has been plagued by injuries. He started his basketball career with Borac Cacak in 2000 and played there until 2003. He then played for Reflex Beograd from 2003-2006. In the last years, he also played for teams like KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd and KK Swisslion Takovo Lions Vrsac. Last season, he played for Enosi Kalathosfairisis Kavalas (Greece-A1) playing 27 games: 13.1ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 43.0%, 3PT: 37.0%, FT: 88.4%. 31 year old 201cm German Nils Mittman is playing his seventh season in Braunschweig after having played there from 1998-2001. He is the ultimate team player that will do anything to win. He played two years in Ulm, two years in Wurzburg and three seasons in Ludwigsburg. Last season the team captain played 39 games: 3.2ppg, 1.7rpg. He has reached the beko BBL cup final twice in 2008 with EnBW Ludwigsburg and last season with Braunschweig. 25 year old 191cm guard Robert Kulawick is playing his first season in Braunschweig after having played the last three years in Goettingen. He started his basketball career at TUS Lichterfelde in 2003 and also played for Alba Berlin from 2004-2006 playing 14 BBL games, three ULEB Cup games and winning the BBL cup in 2006. After playing with The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in 2006-2007, he crossed the boarder into Holland and played for Den Helder Seals playing 34 games averaging 7.9ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 42.2%, 3PT: 39.7%, FT: 84.6%. Already in 2008-2009, one could see the confidence of John Patrick in the German letting him average 10 minutes per game, and in 2009-2010 season he increased his minutes to 17 minutes. Last season for BG Goettingen, he played EuroCup: 14 games: 7.5ppg, 2.1rpg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 37.0%; German League: 36 games: 5.4ppg, 1.9rpg, FGP: 30.0%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 78.6%. He has been a member of the German U-18 and U-20 teams the last years and if he keeps developing the way he does, then German National coach Dirk Bauermann will have to invite him to the German National team some day. 27 year old 221cm German giant Nick Schneiders that was born in Bielefeld and grew up in Rietberg is playing his second season in Braunschweig. He has experience having played in the States for S.Carol.Upstate (NCAA2) from 2005-2008 and then transferring to USC Upstate (NCAA) and playing there from 2008-2010. In his senior year, he played 29 games: 12.4ppg, 6.8rpg, 3.0bpg, FGP: 46.3%, FT: 57.6%. He is known as the tallest player in the Beko BBL and last season played 32 games: 2.1ppg, 2.3rpg. The team also has some young talented Germans with Lukas Gertz, Daniel Theis and Dennis Schroeder. Theis is a 19 year old 207cm center that has played for the German U-18 and U-20 national teams and last summer played at the European Championships U20 in Bilbao (Spain) -11: 9 games: 12.7ppg, Reb-4 (8.7rpg), 1.3apg, 1.0spg, 1.3bpg, FGP: 49.4%, FT: 64.0%. Schroeder is an 18 year old 186cm point guard that is very talented and recently played at the European Championships U18 in Wroclaw (Poland) -11: 8 games: 13.5ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-3 (4.9apg), 2.0spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 26.7%, FT: 63.6%.





Jared Reiner (Zach Randolph Was The Hardest To Guard In The NCAA) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jared Reiner (211-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Iowa) is a 29 year old 211cm center from South Dakota. He played for Iowa from 2000-2004. As a rookie, he made the Chicago Bulls roster playing games 19 games averaging 1.1ppg, 2.0rpg; Play-Offs: 3 games: 0pts. In the 2005-2006 season, he was injured and did not play. In 2006-2007, he played for San Antonio Spurs (NBA), only pre-season, in Nov.'06 moved to Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League, starting five): 28 games: 13.8ppg, 8.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 48%, FT: 69.4%; 28 games: 13.9 ppg, 8.8 rpg, 1.5 apg, in Feb.'07 signed at Milwaukee Bucks (NBA): 27 games: 1.2ppg, 2.6rpg. In 2007-2008, he played for Polaris World Murcia (Spain-ACB, starting five): 17 games: 5.5ppg, 4.4rpg, 2FGP: 53.0%, FT: 44.0%, in Feb.'08 moved to Brose Baskets Bamberg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 20 games: 9.4ppg, Reb-5 (6.8rpg), 2FGP: 52.1%, FT: 53.9%. In 2008-2009, he played for the 76ers (NBA), only pre-season, in Dec.'08 moved to Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 12 games: 13.0ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 53.9%, FT: 72.7%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), only pre-season, in Dec.'09 moved to Fort Wayne Mad Ants (D-League): 17 games: 13.1ppg, 9.7rpg, 1.2apg, 1.2bpg, FGP: 45.7%, FT: 72.2%,and then moved to Gallitos de Isabela (Puerto Rico-BSN): 8 games: 12.4ppg, 10.9rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 45.7%, 3PT: 25.0%. Last season, he played for BBC Bayreuth playing 33 games: 12.6ppg, Reb-3 (7.8rpg), 1.2apg, FGP: 49.7%, FT: 63.8%. Jared took some time to talk to eurobasket about basketball.

When was the last time that you spent Thanksgiving at home?

Well I played four years in the NCAA and seven professional basketball seasons so 11 years ago.

Does a normal Jared Reiner (211-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Iowa) Thanksgiving involve a big turkey and NFL football?

Yes it does. I get up early, prepare the food, eat the turkey and then watch football all day long.

You are still without a team. How surprised are you that you still have no team?

I am very surprised since I had a very solid season in Germany. I just have to stay focused and be ready for the phone to ring.

You played in the Beko BBL for the three Bs Bamberg, Bremerhaven and BBC Bayreuth. Was there no interest for the third best rebounder from last season?

There was some interest from German teams, but it just wasnt the right situation for me. It was a hard year and there were a lot of players for jobs and enough players who wanted to play in a situation that I didnt want to play in.

How does a usual work out day look like for Jared Reiner (211-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Iowa)?

I am working together with a trainer where we lift and shoot and with a player from college.

With the NBA lockout over, is it easier finding a team?

I was close signing with some teams, but the teams went other players. I think with the lockout done that teams will be making changes and there will be more jobs.

If you had the chance where would you like to play where you never have played before?

That is a tough question. I really love Germany and would like to play there again. I was close to signing in Russia and the Ukraine, but I am willing to play anywhere.

Where did you like to play the most in Germany?

Each team was a different situation and I liked all places very much. If I could I would like to add a new letter to the Bs where I have already played.

Who was your toughest opponent in the Beko BBL last season?

John Bryant. He is so big and I mean I am already big. He is a good guy.

If you had the chance to return back to BBC Bayreuth would you?

I liked the team, fans and city. Everyone treated me with respect. If the situation was right, I would return.

How did you take in the Kevin Durant rumors with BBC Bayreuth

I read it in the paper and if they can afford to get him why not. You always want to get the best players.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

Magic Johnson. I was a Lakers fan and I grew up watching James Worthy and Kareem Abdul Jaabar.

What NCAA game with Iowa will you never forget?

It was my freshman year and it was the second round of the NCAA tournament and we played Kentucky. We were favored to win, but lost. It was the coming out of NBA player Tayshaun Prince who hit us with 38 points. But its hard to single out just one game, I was involved in many great games.

Who was your toughest opponent in the NCAA?

Zach Randolph from Michigan State. He was the hardest to guard In The NCAA.

You played together with NBA player Reggie Evans at Iowa. What could you learn from his game?

Evans is a good friend of mine. He is one of the most intense guys that I have been around. He really helped my rebounding game and when he left in my junior year, I led the Big 10 in rebounding.

You played in the NBA from 2004-2007. Do you ever pinch your self that you had the chance to play 3 years in the best league in the world?

Of course. As a kid it was my dream to play in the NBA. I am very happy that I stayed around for three years. I showed up to play each day and it was a great experience.

Do you think that you could get an NBA tryout now?

I dont know. I am not really counting on it. I am hoping more to come back to Europe to play.

You were in the Minnesota Timberwolves training camp in 2009. What impressed you most about Kevin Love?

He is very athletic and is the best rebounder that I have ever seen. Even a ball that you dont think he could ever get, he will get. He always finds the right position. I see him in the top 10 at his position. Statistically, he is the best rebounder in the NBA.

If you could have dinner with any NBA player, past or present who would it be?

I would chose Shaq, because he is a funny guy and is loud. I would like to see first hand how goofy he can be. I am still reading the Jerry West book, but his book is next. I started one game with the Bulls against the Miami Heat. He is the best center that ever played. Nobody could stop him. Everyone else is like little kids on the court.

You played together with Chris Ensminger at Bamberg. Who won a one on one back in the day?

He was a great teammate. We didnt really play one on one, but were more concerned about the team. I am happy that he is still playing. It is amazing that he is still playing at such a high level at 38. He really takes care of his body. I am 29 and to think that I will still be playing in ten years isnt realistic.

What was your favorite food in Germany?

You cant live in Germany without beer and sausages.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I watched Dead Wood on HBO. It is a western about gold rush in South Dakota.

Thanks Jared for the chat.

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  GREECE   


Olympiakos too strong for Cantu, secures Top 16 ticket - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos - Bennet Cantu 86-61

Olympiakos booked a spot for the Euroleague Top 16 after they blasted already-qualified Bennet Cantu with 25-point margin, 86-61. Both teams have 5-4 record now in Group A. Fenerbahce Ulker and Caja Laboral have the same numbers, but they still fight for the next stage. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up for the hosts with 22 points and 5 assists. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) had 14 points and 5 rebs, while Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80) and Kyle Hines (198-F-86) followed with 12 points each. For the guests, Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 17 points. Their second scorer was Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) with 9 pts. Olympiakos won all four periods in this meeting and 12-0 run between both halves was the crucial one. Quarters: 18-12, 20-17, 25-15, 23-17. Olympiacos goes to Nancy for the last game of the regular season. Cantu waits Fenerbahce Ulker in Fener's do or die game.

Olympiakos: Vassilis Spanoulis 22+5 as, Georgios Printezis 14+5 board, Lazaros Papadopoulos 12, Kyle Hines 12
Bennet Cantu: Vladimir Micov 17, Maarten Leunen 9

Mihalis Kakiouzis signs with Roma - by Eurobasket News
Mihalis Kakiouzis (206-C-76, agency: Interperformances) will continue his career in Italy. The 35-year-old Greek penned a deal for rest of the season with the option of terminating after a month. Kakiouzis started this season with Vanoli-Braga Cremona. He appeared four times in Serie A averaging 8.5 points and 5.3 rebounds. Mihalis Kakiouzis spent 2010/11 with French Le Mans. Actually, he joined them in December and later collected 9 ppg, plus 4.2 rpg for 21 games in ProA. He also added 7.3 ppg and 3.9 rpg for 8 EuroCup games. In 2009/10, Mihalis Kakiouzis was a member of Aris and he spent one year with Efes Pilsen before that. In the past, he played for Cajasol, Barcelona, Montepaschi and AEK Athens. Mihalis Kakiouzis was a member of the Greek NT from 1995 to 2007.

Mid December's list of Greek Free agents - by Chris Mammides
Nine weeks after the opening of the Greek A1 league, the list of the free agents is still quite long, eurobasket continue the exploitation in regards to the free agents which can offer their valuable assistance immediately at any team in the A1 or the A2 leagues, which might need them. Some of which are still quite hot names in the market. After these nine six weeks and the weakness that some teams face in particular positions, this list could assist them in deciding whether they want to add some assessment and familiarity in their rosters:

Here is the 'fresh' outcome of our little research

In the Guard position:
Georgios Diamantopoulos (195-F-80)
Nikos Hatzivrettas (195-G-77)
Triantafillos Tzakopoulos (187-G-85)
Fotis Lioutas (193-G-80, college: S.New Hampshire)
Dimitrios Kalaitzidis (198-F/G-85)
Nikos Pappas (194-G-90) (he has a frozen contract with Bizkaia Bilbao)
Lazaros Seferidis (192-G-82)*

In the forward position:
Nikos Theodorakos (202-F-89)
Antonis Kesisoglou (206-F-91)
Luke Hristou (195-F-88)
Vasilis Angelakopoulos (203-F-79)
Giorgos Pavlidis (206-F-78)
Milos Sakota (203-F-84)

In the center position:
Jacob Blankenship (207-C-90)
Georgos Tsiakos (205-F/C-82) (205-F/C-82)
Miroslav Raicevic (208-C-81)
Gaios Skordilis (206-C-87)
Giorgos Loupos (208-C-78)*

* For these three players there is some doubts whether are still active players as there are no news for possible retirement



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  HUNGARY   


Kyle Austin moved to Hungary - by Tamas Deri
American all-around forward Kyle Austin (203-F-88, college: Cal-Riverside) left the team of Boras in Sweden and agreed today with the management of the newcomer team of the 1st Division JKSE for the rest of the season. The 203 cm tall Austin graduated on the University of Cal-Riverside in 2010 and had an amazing senior season averaging 17.6ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.7apg in 29 games of the NCAA. He was voted in the All Big West 1st team as a junior and also as a senior. He started his professional carreer with Faymasa Palencia in the LEB Gold of Spain, but left the team after only 8 games and finished the season with Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves Guimaraes in Portugal where he was puting up 17.9ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg. During the summer he agreed with VOO Verviers-Pepinster in Belgium and played 4 games before movin to Sweden where he helped the team of Boras with adding 17.0 points and 5.0 rebounds in 30 minutes on the court.

Kyle Austin on tryout at Jaszbereny - by Levente Szabo
The newcomer team of the Hungarian First Division keeps searching for the right imports. They brought in Kyle Austin (203-F-88, college: Cal-Riverside) this week for a tryout with the hopes that he will perform good enough to be able to offer him a contract for the rest of the season.

The American forward started his college career at USC but he didnt saw much playing time there and transferred to Cal-Riverside where he became a key player of the team. The 6'8' forward averaged 16.2ppg and 6.1rpg as a Junior and 17.6ppg combined with 7.4rpg as a senior for Cal-Riverside.

After graduating in 2010 he started his professional basketball career in Spain for Faymasa Palencia Baloncesto but with 8 games under his belt he moved to Portugal at the beginning of the season. Playing for the Portuguese team Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves Guimaraes he pretty much brought his college stats with him: 17.9ppg, 6.8rpg, 2.5apg and 1.1spg.
This year Kyle was signed by Belgian team VOO Verviers-Pepinster but left after 4 games recording 5 points and 2.8 rebounds a game in 11.5 minutes/contest. Just a few weeks ago he joined Boras Basket (Sweden-Basketligan) where he played only 3 games to leave for Hungary.

Jaszberenyi KSE will decide on Kyles future not later than the 28th of December.


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  ICELAND   


KFI 10-0 - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
KFI is on top of Division 1 with the record 10-0 at Christmas brake. Looks like team will go straith up to top league again.
Tonight KFI beat Skallagrim who is in second place in away game 97-71 Craig Schoen led KFI with 27 and Chris Miller-Williams added 20 & 13 boards on. Dominique Holmes 22 points for home team. Breidablik94 Hottur 90. Good win for Breidablik that move up to third place. Thorsteinn Gunnlaugsson 30 pts & 16 rebs. Aegir Bjarnason 17 Snorri Hrafnkellson 16 for Breidablik. Michael Sloan 27 Bjarki Oddson 21 for Hottur.
IA 106 Armann 84. Terrence Watson (196-F-87, college: Ball St.) (Agent Icebasket) with another big game 37 points and 22 rebounds Hordur Nikulasson 26 for IA. Snorri Pall Sigurdsson 18 for Armann.
FSU 70. Thor Ak 78 Eric Palm 21 for Thor.
Hamar 92 IG 77. Louie Kirkman 17 for Hamar. Gudmundur Bragason 17 for IG


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  ISRAEL   


Galil Gilboa and Hapoel Tel-Aviv celebrate in BIBL - by Eurobasket News
Galil Gilboa and Hapoel Tel-Aviv were too strong for their rivals in Round Five of the Balkan league.
Galil Gilboa celebrated 85-62 victory against the FYR Macedonian team Torus Skopje. The game was mostly controlled by Galil Gilboa. Torus Skopje managed to win third quarter 24-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Torus Skopje to just 6 points in second quarter. Galil Gilboa shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 57.1 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Dagan Yavzuri (193-G-85) who scored 17 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. American Courtney Fells (198-SF-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) chipped in 17 points. Five Galil Gilboa players scored in double figures. American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M-CC) produced 13 points and 8 rebounds and the other American import guard Jeremiah Boswell (194-G-82) added 17 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) respectively for the guests. 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 fifth consecutive win for Galil Gilboa. They maintain first place in Group A with 5-0 record. Loser Torus Skopje keeps the fourth position with three games lost. Galil Gilboa will meet league's second-placed Rilski Sportist in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Torus Skopje will play against Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Hapoel Tel-Aviv did a good job in Mostar as they handed 67-85 home loss to Zrinjski HT. But it was rather predictable considering how strong their opponent was. The game was mostly controlled by Hapoel Tel-Aviv. Zrinjski HT was better in second period 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hapoel Tel-Aviv dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Zrinjski HT's 36. American point guard Demontez Stitt (186-PG-89, college: Clemson) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. His fellow American import Curtis Kelly (205-PF-88, college: Kansas St.) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Almir Hasandic (190-SG-90) answered with 26 points (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) and American forward Marcel Jones (203-F-85, agency: David Lee services, college: Oregon St.) added 10 points and 16 rebounds in the effort for Zrinjski HT. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Hapoel Tel-Aviv maintains second place in Group B with 4-1 record behind leader Galil Gilboa. Zrinjski HT lost their fifth game in a row. They still closes the standings with five games lost. Hapoel Tel-Aviv's next round opponent will be Napredak Rubin (#4) in Krusevac. Zrinjski HT will play at home against the league's leader Levski Sofia and hopes to get finally their first victory.

Maccabi Electra blasts Anadolu Efes, 96-57 - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi T-A - Anadolu Efes 96-57

Maccabi Electra destroyed Anadolu Efes 96-57 in Round 9 of the Euroleague regular season. The Israeli powerhouse improved to 6-3 record in Group C, while at the same time Efes slipped to third place with 5-4. Both teams already qualified for the Top 16. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) paced the home squad with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists (valuation 25). David Blu (201-F-80, college: USC) top-scored for Maccabi with 18 points, while Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) collected 17 points and 5 rebs. Efes got 12 pts and 5 rebounds from Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84). Their second scorer was Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) (7 as) with just 9 points and Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) (5 rebs) stopped to one less. Maccabi took control on Efes in the second period and smashed them after the breather, especially in the last ten minutes which belonged to Maccabi 31-11. Quarters: 17-20, 19-11, 29-15, 31-11. Maccabi goes to Charleroi in the last round of the regular season. Efes waits Real Madrid.

Maccabi: David Blu 18, Lior Eliyahu 16+9 boards+6 as, Sofoklis Schortsanitis 17+5 boards
Anadolu Efes: Sasha Vujacic 12+5 boards, Kerem Tunceri 9+7 as, Dusko Savanovic 8+5 boards

Hapoel Jerusalem bring in Demetri McCamey - by Eurobasket News
Hapoel Jerusalem strengthened their backcourt. They landed Demetri McCamey (190-G-89, college: Illinois). The guard started the season with Mersin. It was the first pro contract for the guard. Demetri McCamey tallied 7.0 points, 1.7 assists and 1.6 boards per game in TBL. The guard graduated from the University of Illinois in 2011. He notched 14.6 points, 6.1 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.0 steal per game in his senior season. Demetri McCamey was named into All-Big Ten 3rd Team.


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


Teramo and Salim Stoudamire part ways - by Eurobasket News
Banca Tercas Teramo and Salim Stoudamire (186-G-82, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Arizona) parted ways after only one day. The American point guard arrived for try-out, but according to local media he is out of shape and the Italian team decided not to keep him. The 29-year-old player is a free agent since he finished last season with the NBA D-League team Reno Bighorns. Stoudamire joined the Bighorns in December of 2010 averaging 8.1 points and 1.5 assists for 38 games. He started last season with Idaho Stampede. There, Stoudemire collected 13.2 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 3.6 apg for 9 games. In the past, Salim Stoudamire spent three years with Atlanta Hawks. It was from 2005 to 2008. He shined as a rookie with 9.7 ppg and 1.9 rpg for 61 games. Salim Stoudamire graduated at the University of Arizona in 2005. He is the cousin of former USA All-American (1992-95) and 1996 NBA Rookie of the Year Damon Stoudamire.

Jeff Adrien leaves Benetton Treviso for Houston Rockets - by Eurobasket News
Jeff Adrien (201-F-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Connecticut) agreed a two-year contract with the Houston Rockets, according to Marc J. Spears of Yahoo! Sports. Reportedly, he already terminated his deal with Benetton Treviso and is expected to sign with the Rockets in the coming days. Adrien played 9 games for Benetton in Serie A averaging 13.3 points and 9 rebounds. He also added 13.6 ppg and 8.4 rpg for 5 EuroCup games. He spent some time with the Golden State Warriors last season. For 22 games with them Adrien registered 2.6 ppg and 2.6 rpg. He also played for the NBA D-League teams Erie BayHawks and Rio Grande Valley Vipers last season. With the Vipers, Jeff Adrien had 19.9 ppg, 12.2 rpg and 1.5 apg. He graduated at the University of Connecticut in 2009. His rookie season Adrien spent with Spanish Leche Rio Breogan Lugo.

Olympiakos too strong for Cantu, secures Top 16 ticket - by Eurobasket News
Olympiakos - Bennet Cantu 86-61

Olympiakos booked a spot for the Euroleague Top 16 after they blasted already-qualified Bennet Cantu with 25-point margin, 86-61. Both teams have 5-4 record now in Group A. Fenerbahce Ulker and Caja Laboral have the same numbers, but they still fight for the next stage. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up for the hosts with 22 points and 5 assists. Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) had 14 points and 5 rebs, while Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80) and Kyle Hines (198-F-86) followed with 12 points each. For the guests, Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 17 points. Their second scorer was Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) with 9 pts. Olympiakos won all four periods in this meeting and 12-0 run between both halves was the crucial one. Quarters: 18-12, 20-17, 25-15, 23-17. Olympiacos goes to Nancy for the last game of the regular season. Cantu waits Fenerbahce Ulker in Fener's do or die game.

Olympiakos: Vassilis Spanoulis 22+5 as, Georgios Printezis 14+5 board, Lazaros Papadopoulos 12, Kyle Hines 12
Bennet Cantu: Vladimir Micov 17, Maarten Leunen 9

Montepaschi hands first loss to Regal Barca - by Eurobasket News
Montepaschi - FCB Regal 77-74

Amazing last quarter helped Montepaschi to beat Regal Barca 77-74 on Thursday night handing the Spanish champion first Euroleague loss of the season. Montepaschi improved its score to 7-2 in Group D, while visitors slipped to 8-1. Barca is the winner of this pool due to great victory against Montepaschi in their first meeting earlier this season. Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) delivered 21 points for Italians and Pietro Aradori (192-G-88) had one less. Nikolaos Zisis (196-G-83) netted 16 points in this victory. In Barca, Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) was way better than the others with 22 points and 5 rebounds (valuation 29). Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina) scored 14 and Pete Mickeal (199-F-78, college: Cincinnati) stopped to 9 pts. With 26 seconds to go in the game, Aradori gave Siena the lead on two foul shots, 75-74, then Rakocevic added more points from the line as the hosts completed a thrilling comeback to take the win 77-74. Quarters: 23-20, 13-15, 11-24, 30-15. In the last round of the regular season Montapeschi will play against Asseco Prokom in Gdynia. Barca will host Galatasaray.

Montepaschi: Igor Rakocevic 21, Pietro Aradori 20, Nikolaos Zisis 16
Regal Barca: Erazem Lorbek 22+5 boards, Chuck Eidson 14, Pete Mickeal 9

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  JAPAN   


Stats Leaders - JBL Superleague
Points Per Game
 Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 19.8
 1. Kawamura, Tochigi19.8 
 2. Sakuragi, Aishin SH17.5 
 3. McFarlin, Tochigi17.1 
 4. Kanamaru, Panasoni.16.5 
 5. Hale, Mitsubis.16.5 
 6. Orimo, Hokkaido L.14.6 
 7. Takeuchi, Hitac.14.6 
 8. Lewis, Hokkaido L.14.3 
 9. Ricci, Toyota Alva.13.4 
 10. Igarashi, Mitsubi.13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 J.R. SAKURAGI
  Aishin SH
  (206-F/C-76)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Sakuragi, Aishin SH11.8 
 2. McFarlin, Tochigi10.3 
 3. Takeuchi, Hitac.9.8 
 4. Moss, Toshiba BT8.0 
 5. Diouf, Hokkaido L.8.0 
 6. O''Bannon, Panason.7.6 
 7. Gibbs, Toyota A.7.3 
 8. Young, Aishin SH7.1 
 9. Allen, Mitsubis.6.8 
 10. Ricci, Toyota Alv.6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Ryota SAKURAI
  Hokkaido.
  (194-G-83)
  Avg: 4.4
 1. Sakurai, Hokkaido.4.4 
 2. Igarashi, Mitsubis.3.7 
 3. Kawamura, Tochigi3.6 
 4. Kashiwakura, Hitac.3.6 
 5. Kashiwagi, Aishin3.1 
 6. Watanabe, Panason.3.0 
 7. Sakuragi, Aishin SH2.9 
 8. Kinoshita, Panason.2.8 
 9. Takeuchi, Hitac.2.8 
 10. Miyanga, Toshi.2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Kawamura, Tochigi1.9 
 2. Kashiwagi, Aishin1.8 
 3. Gibbs, Toyota A.1.7 
 4. Hirose, Panasoni.1.7 
 5. Hale, Mitsubis.1.7 
 6. Sato, Hitachi SR1.6 
 7. Sakuragi, Aishin SH1.4 
 8. Diouf, Hokkaido L.1.3 
 9. Nishimura, Hitac.1.2 
 10. Igarashi, Mitsubi.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Anthony RICHARDSON
  Aishin S.
  (201-F-83)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Richardson, Aishin1.7 
 2. Takeuchi, Hitac.1.6 
 3. McFarlin, Tochigi1.1 
 4. Ricci, Toyota Alva.1.1 
 5. Takeuchi, Toyota1.0 
 6. Diouf, Hokkaido L.1.0 
 7. Hale, Mitsubis.0.8 
 8. Young, Aishin SH0.8 
 9. Moss, Toshiba BT0.8 
 10. Merritt, Toshi.0.8 


Standings - JBL
JBL Standings
 1. Toyota Alvark 17-4 
 2. Aishin SH 16-4 
 3. Hitachi SR 12-8 
 4. Panasonic T. 10-10 
 5. Hokkaido L. 9-12 
 6. Tochigi Brex 8-12 
 7. Mitsubishi DD 7-13 
 8. Toshiba BT 2-18 


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  JORDAN   


Pan Arab Games: Jordan wins the overtime thriller over Lebanon - by Eurobasket News
Jordan-Lebanon 83:72 OT

Jordan wins the overtime thriller over Lebanon to seal the Second Stage birth and remain alive for the top positions. Jordan grabbed the second place in Group B after 83:72 victory.
Lebanon won the first period 15-12 and added 18-6 in the second frame to lead 33:18 at the halftime. Even with 15-point advantage they could not however win the game. Jordan needed 22-15 in the third quarter and 23-15 to tie the game after four quarters. In overtime Jordan produced 20-9 to seal the victory.
Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) paced all the winners with 32 points and Ali Zaghab (205-F/C-88) posted 17. Wesam Al-Sous (189-G-83) netted 13 points and Ayman Idais (205-C-78, agency: Court Side) notched 11. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) collected massive 33 points and 15 rebounds in defeat and Abdel Nour Jean netted 15. Lebanon finished third with 1-2 record.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 32, Ali Zaghab 17, Wesam Al-Sous 13, Ayman Idais 11
Lebanon: Fadi Khatib 33+15 rebs, Abdel Nour Jean 15

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  KAZAKHSTAN   


BC Astana shock Budivelnyk in Kiev - by Eurobasket News
VTB League
Budivelnyk - BC Astana 71:82

BC Astana shock Budivelnyk in Kiev for 4-4 record in VTB League. BC Astana defeated Budivelnyk 82:71.
The game was mostly controlled by BC Astana. Budivelnyk was better in third quarter 25-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-26 charity shots (88.5 percent) during the game. Budivelnyk was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The winners were led by American guard Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: Rider) who scored that evening 17 points and 4 assists and Rawle Marshall (201-G-82, college: Oakland) supported him with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Even 16 points and 5 rebounds by Zach Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) did not help to save the game for Budivelnyk. added 11 points.
BC Astana moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Lokomotiv. Budivelnyk lost third consecutive game. Defending Ukrainian champion dropped to the seventh position with five games lost.

Budivelnyk: Zach Morley 16, Michailis Anisimovas (214-C-84) 11
BC Astana: Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket) 17, Jerry Johnson 17, Rawle Marshall 16


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  KOSOVO   


Bashkimi survived Futura - by Dren Shporta
Oranges from Prizren arrived to their ninth victory of the season and with this win they guaranteed third position of the classification table in the winter pause. Bashkimi beat Futura in Pallati i Rinise with final result of 92:81.

Naser Oskaceks boys showed some good game in first half and created the difference to play more relaxed in the end. But Futura never stopped hoping and until the end they got very close until in the scene came Samir Shaptahovic (174-G-81) to make a disconnection in Futuras great series of scoring.

After Round 13, Bashkimi has nine wins and four lost matches. In the last game of the winter season Bashkimi will host the reigning champions of BKT Superlig, Sigal Prishtina. Futura has two play two more games until the end of the season, against leaders Trepca and their delayed match against Kosova.


Standings - Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
 1. Sigal Prishtina 12-1 
 2. Trepca 12-1 
 3. Bashkimi 9-4 
 4. Peja 7-6 
 5. Kolegji Univer. 5-8 
 6. Kosova 3-9 
 7. Drita 2-11 
 8. Futura 1-11 


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


Standings - LBAL
LBL2 Standings
 1. BK VEF 13-0 
 2. Liepaja-2 13-1 
 3. Saldus 12-3 
 4. Barons/Keizar. 11-1 
 5. RSU 9-4 
 6. Riga 7-6 
 7. VEF Kadeti 6-5 
 8. VA 6-6 
 9. DSN 5-7 
 10. Livani 4-8 
 11. Cesis 3-8 
 12. Valmiera U21 3-10 
 13. Ogres 2-9 
 14. Jelgava/LLU 2-10 
 15. Ridzene 2-10 
 16. Gulbene 1-11 


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  LEBANON   


Pan Arab Games: Jordan wins the overtime thriller over Lebanon - by Eurobasket News
Jordan-Lebanon 83:72 OT

Jordan wins the overtime thriller over Lebanon to seal the Second Stage birth and remain alive for the top positions. Jordan grabbed the second place in Group B after 83:72 victory.
Lebanon won the first period 15-12 and added 18-6 in the second frame to lead 33:18 at the halftime. Even with 15-point advantage they could not however win the game. Jordan needed 22-15 in the third quarter and 23-15 to tie the game after four quarters. In overtime Jordan produced 20-9 to seal the victory.
Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) paced all the winners with 32 points and Ali Zaghab (205-F/C-88) posted 17. Wesam Al-Sous (189-G-83) netted 13 points and Ayman Idais (205-C-78, agency: Court Side) notched 11. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) collected massive 33 points and 15 rebounds in defeat and Abdel Nour Jean netted 15. Lebanon finished third with 1-2 record.

Jordan: Rasheim Wright 32, Ali Zaghab 17, Wesam Al-Sous 13, Ayman Idais 11
Lebanon: Fadi Khatib 33+15 rebs, Abdel Nour Jean 15

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  LITHUANIA   


Standings - NKL
NKL Standings
 1. Delikatesas 14-7 
 2. Radviliskis 14-7 
 3. Nafta Universitetas 14-7 
 4. Zalgiris-Sabonio 13-8 
 5. LKKA-Atletas 12-9 
 6. Statyba 12-9 
 7. Triobet 11-10 
 8. Mazeikiai 11-10 
 9. Matinga-Juod. 11-10 
 10. Perlas-MRU 11-10 
 11. Ezerunas-Karys 10-11 
 12. Silute 9-12 
 13. Meresta 9-12 
 14. S.Marciulionio 7-14 
 15. ABRO-Univ. 5-16 
 16. Gargzdai 5-16 


Stats Leaders - LKL
Points Per Game
 Povilas BUTKEVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Butkevicius, Rudup.18.7 
 2. Valanciunas, Lietu.16.8 
 3. Urbonas, Juventus16.3 
 4. Benn, Naglis Palan.15.1 
 5. Lowe, Kedainiai14.4 
 6. Pakamanis, Juven.14.4 
 7. Hughes, Pieno Z.13.9 
 8. Mazeika, Neptunas13.7 
 9. Baniulis, Sakalai13.4 
 10. Orelikas, Rudupis13.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Johnson, Naglis P.10.5 
 2. Butkevicius, Rudup.9.1 
 3. Petrukonis, Juven.7.6 
 4. Benn, Naglis Palan.7.6 
 5. Adomaitis, Kedaini.7.3 
 6. McClure, Kedainiai7.3 
 7. Pakamanis, Juven.6.8 
 8. Katelynas, Lietuv.6.6 
 9. Matulionis, Techas.6.4 
 10. Javtokas, Zalgiris6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Mantas KALNIETIS
  Zalgiris
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Kalnietis, Zalgiris5.3 
 2. Broadus, Siauliai5.1 
 3. Ezerskis, Techasas4.8 
 4. Rice, Lietuvos.4.8 
 5. Dainys, Neptunas4.6 
 6. Maceina, Juventus4.5 
 7. Peciukeviciu., Sak.4.4 
 8. Janavicius, Baltai3.9 
 9. Rinkevicius, Nagli.3.6 
 10. Orelikas, Rudupis3.4 
Steals Per Game
 TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Hughes, Pieno Z.2.8 
 2. Lowe, Neptunas2.3 
 3. Seibutis, Lietuv.2.1 
 4. Collins, Zalgiris2.0 
 5. Broadus, Siauliai2.0 
 6. Dainys, Neptunas1.9 
 7. Benn, Naglis Palan.1.9 
 8. Kelys, Pieno Z.1.8 
 9. Weems, Zalgiris1.7 
 10. Zukauskas, Siauli.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Valanciunas, Lietu.2.8 
 2. Johnson, Naglis P.1.7 
 3. Staniulis, Techasas1.4 
 4. Samardziski, Lietu.1.3 
 5. Morgan, Pieno Z.1.2 
 6. Petrukonis, Juven.1.1 
 7. Butkevicius, Rudup.1.1 
 8. Kairys, Pieno Z.1.0 
 9. Barnes, Kedainiai1.0 
 10. Matulionis, Techa.0.9 


Stats Leaders - NKL
Points Per Game
 Vidmantas UZKURAITIS
  Delikate.
  (189-G-85)
  Avg: 22.6
 1. Uzkuraitis, Delika.22.6 
 2. Vingelis, LKKA-.22.4 
 3. Rakauskas, Radvili.20.4 
 4. Maneikis, Meresta19.1 
 5. Lengvinas, Nafta17.9 
 6. Jucikas, AB.17.1 
 7. Gudaitis, Gargzdai17.0 
 8. Brown, Mazeikiai16.7 
 9. Sragauskis, LKKA-.16.5 
 10. Pancerevas, Silute16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Arturas GUDAITIS
  Gargzdai
  (208-C-93)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Gudaitis, Gargzdai10.8 
 2. Mineikis, Radvilis.9.4 
 3. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru.9.0 
 4. Urbonas, LK.8.3 
 5. Jogela, Zalgir.7.9 
 6. Ramanauskas, Radvi.7.8 
 7. Jucikas, AB.7.7 
 8. Vaitiekunas, Triob.7.7 
 9. Kumpys, Nafta U.7.5 
 10. Kazakauskas, Naf.7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Paulius MALASAUSKAS
  LKKA-.
  (189-G-91)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Malasauskas, LKKA.5.6 
 2. Razutis, Silute5.3 
 3. Semaska, Perla.4.8 
 4. Vileita, Perla.4.7 
 5. Varanauskas, Stat.4.6 
 6. Kvedaraviciu., Del.4.5 
 7. Vasiliauskas, Trio.4.5 
 8. Kuklierius, Mating.4.4 
 9. Artamonov, Meresta4.3 
 10. Stasys, Mazeikiai4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Tauras JOGELA
  Zalgir.
  (201-F-93)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Jogela, Zalgir.2.6 
 2. Slivka, Meresta2.6 
 3. Razutis, Silute2.5 
 4. Brown, Mazeikiai2.2 
 5. Vileita, Perla.2.1 
 6. Rauktys, Radvilisk.1.9 
 7. Uzkuraitis, Delika.1.9 
 8. Krivonis, Matinga-.1.9 
 9. Paliukenas, S.Marc.1.9 
 10. Sebeziovas, Triob.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Tomas URBONAS
  LK.
  (218-C-92)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Urbonas, LK.3.4 
 2. Gudaitis, Gargzdai1.7 
 3. Jucikas, AB.1.3 
 4. Vaitiekunas, Triob.1.2 
 5. Pupinis, Matinga-.1.1 
 6. Krestinin, S.Marc.1.1 
 7. Gvazdaitis, Mating.1.0 
 8. Ramanauskas, Sil.1.0 
 9. Vorotnikovas, Trio.0.9 
 10. Kymantas, Zalgir.0.9 


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


Zalgiris takes crucial win in Bamberg - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets - Zalgiris 68-82

Zalgiris shined when it mattered most and cruised past Brose Baskets in Bamberg 68-82 joining them with 3-6 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. The Lithuanian champions hold a tiebreaker and all they need is a victory at home over KK Zagreb next week to clinch a Top 16 spot. Brose Baskets now needs to win its final regular season game in Athens and hope for a Zalgiris loss. Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) (6 rebs) and Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) scored 14 points each for the winners. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) had 13 and 12 points respectively. For the home squad, Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored with 16 points. Brian Roberts (188-G-85, agency: Interperformances) had 13, and Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, college: San Diego St.) collected 10 points, plus 9 rebs. Zalgiris had amazing first half as they made 14-point lead. Visitors jumped to 34-52 after the breather and Brose Baskets had no chance for rest of the game. Quarters: 13-20, 17-24, 19-14, 19-24. As mentioned above, Zalgiris will host Zagreb next week. Brose Baskets goes to Panathinaikos arena in Athens.

Brose Baskets: Predrag Suput 16, Brian Roberts 13, Marcus Slaughter 10+9 boards
Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 14+6 boards, Mantas Kalnietis 14, Marko Popovic 13, Tomas Delininkaitis 12

LKL Round 10: Siauliai loses to Baltai Kaunas - by Eurobasket News
The most important game in the last round took place in Siauliai between third ranked Siauliai (7-3) and fifth ranked Baltai Kaunas (6-4) on Friday night. Siauliai was defeated by Baltai Kaunas in a tough game at home 83-87. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Siauliai won fourth quarter 31-27. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Baltai Kaunas made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Siauliai helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Zygimantas Janavicius (192-89, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Croatian power forward Mario Delas (207-90) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American power forward Denzel Bowles (208-89, college: JMU) replied with a double-double by scoring 30 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists for Siauliai. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Baltai Kaunas maintains fifth position with 6-4 record. Siauliai at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. Baltai Kaunas are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Techasas (#12) in Panevezys in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Siauliai will play on the road against Kedainiai (#10) and is hoping to win this game.
Naglis Palangos (#11) forced the game against Pieno Zvaigzdes (#8) into an overtime, but lost by three points 72-75. Forward Eimantas Bendzius (203-90) scored 17 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Evaldas Kairys chipped in 13 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Roberts Stelmahers allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the losing side Russian forward Nikita Barinov (200-91) responded with 13 points and 7 rebounds. Pieno Zvaigzdes (4-5) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Juventus. Naglis Palangos at the other side keeps the eleventh position with eight games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Sakalai (#9) in Vilnius in the next round. Naglis Palangos will play at home against Neptunas in Klaipeda and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Klaipeda between Neptunas and Sakalai. Sixth ranked Neptunas (5-4) got a very close home victory over 9th ranked Sakalai (3-7). Neptunas managed to escape with a 1-point win 96-95 on Friday evening. Martynas Mazeika notched 23 points and 5 assists (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) to lead the effort. Even 26 points and 6 rebounds by Evaldas Baniulis did not help to save the game for Sakalai. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Neptunas maintains sixth position with 5-4 record. Loser Sakalai keeps the ninth place with seven games lost. Neptunas will meet Naglis Palangos (#11) in the next round where they are favorite. Sakalai will play against Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between top-ranked Zalgiris (7-0) and 10th ranked Kedainiai (2-7) in Kaunas ended with biggest points difference. Zalgiris outscored guests from Kedainiai 81-60. Mantas Kalnietis fired 15 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Undefeated Zalgiris have an impressive seven-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to second place. Kedainiai at the other side keeps the tenth position with seven games lost. Zalgiris' next round opponent will be Juventus (#8) in Utena where they are favorite. Kedainiai will play at home against Siauliai.



Siauliai - Baltai Kaunas 83-87

The most important game in the last round took place in Siauliai between third ranked Siauliai (7-3) and fifth ranked Baltai Kaunas (6-4) on Friday night. Siauliai was defeated by Baltai Kaunas in a tough game at home 83-87. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Siauliai won fourth quarter 31-27. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Baltai Kaunas made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Siauliai helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Zygimantas Janavicius (192-89, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Croatian power forward Mario Delas (207-90) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Five Baltai Kaunas players scored in double figures. American power forward Denzel Bowles (208-89, college: JMU) replied with a double-double by scoring 30 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international forward Valdas Vasylius (203-83, college: ODU) added 17 points (made all of his seven free throws) in the effort for Siauliai. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Baltai Kaunas maintains fifth position with 6-4 record. Siauliai at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. Baltai Kaunas are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Techasas (#12) in Panevezys in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Siauliai will play on the road against Kedainiai (#10) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Baltai Kaunas: Z.Janavicius 16+5reb+6ast, M.Delas 15+5reb+1ast, E.Ulanovas 12+2reb+1ast, M.Kupsas 10+3reb, S.Vene 10+4reb+4ast, G.Zyle 9+2reb+1ast
Siauliai: D.Bowles 30+14reb+4ast, V.Vasylius 17+3reb+1ast, C.Long 13+5reb, R.Broadus 8+4reb+2ast, A.Siksnius 8+2reb, E.Ruzgas 4+2reb
gschID: 151940


Zalgiris - Kedainiai 81-60

The game between top-ranked Zalgiris (7-0) and 10th ranked Kedainiai (2-7) in Kaunas ended with biggest points difference. Zalgiris outscored guests from Kedainiai 81-60. It looked good early as Kedainiai took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Zalgiris had a 24-8 second period charge getting the lead and Kedainiai was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 60-81. Zalgiris dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Kedainiai's 28. The former international guard Mantas Kalnietis (196-86, agency: Interperformances) fired 15 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Forward Povilas Butkevicius (203-87) chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds. The former international point guard Vytenis Jasikevicius (187-85) produced 9 points and 4 assists and forward Marius Valukonis (198-88) added 9 points and 4 assists 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. Zalgiris have an impressive seven-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to second place. Kedainiai at the other side keeps the tenth position with seven games lost. Zalgiris' next round opponent will be Juventus (#8) in Utena where they are favorite. Kedainiai will play at home against Siauliai.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris: M.Kalnietis 15+3reb+5ast, T.Delininkaitis 13+1ast, P.Butkevicius 11+6reb+1ast, T.Klimavicius 10+1reb+1ast, M.Rakovic 8+4reb+1ast, P.Jankunas 6+8reb+1ast
Kedainiai: V.Peciukas 10+2reb+2ast, M.Valukonis 9+2reb+4ast, V.Jasikevicius 9+3reb+4ast, V.Sulskis 7+2reb+2ast, A.Masiulis 6+4reb+2ast, A.Adomaitis 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 151937


Pieno Zvaigzdes - Naglis Palangos 75-72 OT

Naglis Palangos (#11) forced the game against Pieno Zvaigzdes (#8) into an overtime, but lost by three points 72-75. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Naglis Palangos won fourth quarter 17-10. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Naglis Palangos used huge pressure winning it 17-10 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 5-8. They outrebounded Naglis Palangos 43-32 including 19 on the offensive glass. Forward Eimantas Bendzius (203-90) scored 17 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and center Evaldas Kairys (207-90) chipped in 13 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Roberts Stelmahers allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the losing side Russian forward Nikita Barinov (200-91) responded with 13 points and 7 rebounds and guard Mindaugas Reminas (190-86) scored 17 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Pieno Zvaigzdes (4-5) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Juventus. Naglis Palangos at the other side keeps the eleventh position with eight games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Sakalai (#9) in Vilnius in the next round. Naglis Palangos will play at home against Neptunas in Klaipeda and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Pieno Zvaigzdes: E.Bendzius 17+8reb, E.Kairys 13+11reb+1ast, P.Morkeliunas 10+6reb, Z.Kelys 10+6reb+8ast, D.Griskenas 9+2reb, S.Kulvietis 7+2reb+2ast
Naglis Palangos: M.Reminas 17+4reb+1ast, T.Rinkevicius 13+1reb+2ast, N.Barinov 13+7reb+2ast, D.Johnson 12+6reb, B.Benn 9+9reb+2ast, P.Davis 4+4reb
gschID: 151938


Neptunas - Sakalai 96-95

A very close game took place in Klaipeda between Neptunas and Sakalai. Sixth ranked Neptunas (5-4) got a very close home victory over 9th ranked Sakalai (3-7). Neptunas managed to escape with a 1-point win 96-95 on Friday evening. Sakalai trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 32-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 95-96 at the end of the game. Neptunas made 23-of-25 free shots (92.0 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Guard Martynas Mazeika (193-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) notched 23 points and 5 assists (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and forward Laurynas Mikalauskas (205-85, college: Virginia) supported him with 24 points. Four Neptunas players scored in double figures. Even 26 points and 6 rebounds by forward Evaldas Baniulis (201-87, college: S.Carolina) did not help to save the game for Sakalai. Swingman Deividas Pukis (194-92, college: High School) added 20 points (made all of his eight free throws) for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Neptunas maintains sixth position with 5-4 record. Loser Sakalai keeps the ninth place with seven games lost. Neptunas will meet Naglis Palangos (#11) in the next round where they are favorite. Sakalai will play against Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Neptunas: L.Mikalauskas 24+4reb+2ast, M.Mazeika 23+3reb+5ast, S.Galdikas 12+5reb, M.Girdziunas 12+3reb+3ast, M.Ruikis 8+4reb+3ast, E.Dainys 8+5reb+2ast
Sakalai: E.Baniulis 26+6reb+2ast, D.Pukis 20+3reb, A.Butkevicius 11+3reb+2ast, L.Samenas 9+1reb+4ast, E.Jezukevicius 8+3reb, P.Joneliunas 6+4reb
gschID: 151939




Naglis invite Paul Davis - by Eurobasket News
Naglis bolstered their roster. They agreed on terms of contract with Paul Davis (205-F-88, college: Winston Salem). The forward started the season in ABA. He signed his first pro contract with the Carolina Cougars this year. Paul Davis graduated from Winston Salem State University this year. He made it into NABC Division II All-Atlantic Region 2nd Team in 2011. Paul Davis has debuted for Naglis tonight. He tallied 4 points and 4 boards in just over 15 minutes on court against Pieno zvaigzdes.


NKL Round 21: #1 Delikatesas are defeated by Ezerunas-Karys - by Eurobasket News
There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with defeat of the leader, derby games, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Delikatesas (14-7) in Moletai on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by eleventh ranked Ezerunas-Karys (10-11) 75-70. Delikatesas was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Forward Andrius Slezas (200-75) stepped up and scored 23 points for the winners and forward Raimondas Ambrulaitis (199-82) chipped in 12 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) with 16 points and 4 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Ezerunas-Karys have a solid series of three victories in a row. Newly promoted Ezerunas-Karys maintains eleventh place with 10-11 record. Delikatesas at the other side still keeps top position with seven games lost. They share it with Radviliskis and Nafta Universitetas. Ezerunas-Karys are looking forward to face ABRO-Universitetas (#15) in Siauliai in the next round. Delikatesas will play at home against Gargzdai-Bremena (#16) and is hoping to win this game.
Very significant was Zalgiris-Sabonio's (#4) just 2-point road victory against 5th ranked LKKA-Atletas 85-83. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of LKKA-Atletas. Forward Tauras Jogela (201-93) nailed 21 points and 9 rebounds for the winning side and Vaidas Kariniauskas accounted for 18 points. point guard Matas Sapiega (179-90) came up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 assists for LKKA-Atletas in the defeat. Zalgiris-Sabonio maintains fourth place with 13-8 record. LKKA-Atletas at the other side keeps the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Statyba. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against Matinga-Juod. (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. LKKA-Atletas will play against the league's second-placed Radviliskis (#2) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Mazeikiai (derby !!!) between Mazeikiai and Triobet. Ninth ranked Mazeikiai (11-10) got a very close home victory over 7th ranked Triobet (11-10). Mazeikiai managed to escape with a 1-point win 78-77 in the game for the seventh place. The best player for the winners was Parrish Brown who scored 21 points and 4 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was Martynas Linkevicius who recorded 19 points and 5 rebounds. Mazeikiai moved-up to seventh place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Triobet. Mazeikiai will meet S.Marciulionio (#14) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Triobet will play against Nafta Universitetas (#3) in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
Fourteenth-ranked S.Marciulionio (7-14) gave a tough game to sixth ranked Statyba (12-9) in Vilnius. Statyba managed to secure only three-point victory 98-95. However their fans expected much easier game. Statyba have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with LKKA-Atletas. S.Marciulionio at the other side keeps the fourteenth position with 14 games lost. Statyba's next round opponent will be Silute (#12) on the road and are hoping to win another game. S.Marciulionio will play against Mazeikiai.
16th ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (5-16) was outscored at home by thirteenth ranked Silute (9-12) with the biggest margin this round 82-66 on Friday night. Arturas Kaubrys stepped up with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Silute moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Meresta. Gargzdai-Bremena lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Silute will face higher ranked Statyba (#6) in Vilnius in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gargzdai-Bremena will play on the road against the league's leader Delikatesas (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 21: Radviliskis won against Meresta on the opponent's court 83-78. Nafta Universitetas managed to outperform Perlas-MRU in a home game 84-76. ABRO-Univ. recorded a loss to Matinga-Juod. on the road 76-65.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 25 points and 14 rebounds by Mindaugas Kalvelis of Matinga-Juod..


Statyba - S.Marciulionio 98-95

Fourteenth-ranked S.Marciulionio (7-14) gave a tough game to sixth ranked Statyba (12-9) in Vilnius. Statyba managed to secure only three-point victory 98-95. However their fans expected much easier game. Statyba have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with LKKA-Atletas. S.Marciulionio at the other side keeps the fourteenth position with 14 games lost. Statyba's next round opponent will be Silute (#12) on the road and are hoping to win another game. S.Marciulionio will play against Mazeikiai.
gschID: 148431


Meresta - Radviliskis 78-83

Very expected game in Pakruojis where 12th ranked Meresta (9-12) was defeated by third ranked Radviliskis (14-7) 83-78 on Friday. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 20-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Guard Tomas Rakauskas (183-81) stepped up and scored 26 points and 4 assists for the winners and guard Rytis Rauktys (187-84) chipped in 15 points and 10 rebounds. The best for the losing side was center Deividas Keburys (202-90) with 14 points and 6 rebounds and guard Liudas Radavicius (188-88) scored 17 points. Four Meresta players scored in double figures. Radviliskis keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Delikatesas and Nafta Universitetas. Meresta lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the twelfth place with 12 games lost. Radviliskis will face LKKA-Atletas (#5) in Kaunas in the next round. Meresta will play on the road against Perlas-MRU (#10) in Vilnius and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Radviliskis: T.Rakauskas 26+3reb+4ast, R.Rauktys 15+10reb+3ast, J.Ramanauskas 12+9reb+1ast, L.Pipiras 9+5reb, A.Mineikis 8+9reb+4ast, R.Grinius 6+2reb
Meresta: L.Radavicius 17+4reb, D.Keburys 14+6reb+2ast, S.Slivka 13+5reb+1ast, K.Artamonov 11+3reb+4ast, B.Bagdonavicius 8+4reb, S.Raziulis 8+3reb+3ast
gschID: 148428


LKKA-Atletas - Zalgiris-Sabonio 83-85

Very significant was Zalgiris-Sabonio's (#4) just 2-point road victory against 5th ranked LKKA-Atletas 85-83. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of LKKA-Atletas. The guests were ahead by 1 point but lost the second period ending it with a 10-point deficit before their 24-12 run, which allowed them to win the game. Forward Tauras Jogela (201-93) nailed 21 points and 9 rebounds for the winning side and forward Vaidas Kariniauskas (198-93) accounted for 18 points. point guard Matas Sapiega (179-90) came up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 assists and guard Taurantas Tamosiunas (190-92) added 18 points respectively for LKKA-Atletas in the defeat. Five Zalgiris-Sabonio and four LKKA-Atletas players scored in double figures. Zalgiris-Sabonio maintains fourth place with 13-8 record. LKKA-Atletas at the other side keeps the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Statyba. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against Matinga-Juod. (#9) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. LKKA-Atletas will play against the league's second-placed Radviliskis (#2) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris-Sabonio: T.Jogela 21+9reb+3ast, V.Kariniauskas 18+3reb+2ast, R.Jakstas 13+8reb+1ast, S.Kymantas 12+7reb+1ast, R.Simanavicius 10+2reb+3ast, M.Grigonis 5+4reb+1ast
LKKA-Atletas: T.Tamosiunas 18+3reb+2ast, V.Sragauskis 15+4reb+1ast, S.Vingelis 14+3reb+5ast, M.Sapiega 13+12ast, E.Tviraga 9+2reb, T.Urbonas 8+8reb
gschID: 148429


Ezerunas-Karys - Delikatesas 75-70

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Delikatesas (14-7) in Moletai on Friday night. Visitors were defeated by eleventh ranked Ezerunas-Karys (10-11) 75-70. Delikatesas was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Forward Andrius Slezas (200-75) stepped up and scored 23 points for the winners and forward Raimondas Ambrulaitis (199-82) chipped in 12 points and 7 rebounds. Four Ezerunas-Karys players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) with 16 points and 4 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) and guard Vidmantas Uzkuraitis (189-85) scored 20 points. Ezerunas-Karys have a solid series of three victories in a row. Newly promoted Ezerunas-Karys maintains eleventh place with 10-11 record. Delikatesas at the other side still keeps top position with seven games lost. They share it with Radviliskis and Nafta Universitetas. Ezerunas-Karys are looking forward to face ABRO-Universitetas (#15) in Siauliai in the next round. Delikatesas will play at home against Gargzdai-Bremena (#16) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Ezerunas-Karys: A.Slezas 23+2reb+2ast, B.Steponenas 15+2reb+1ast, M.Kugauda 12+4reb+4ast, R.Ambrulaitis 12+7reb+3ast, G.Kulbis 8+3reb+3ast, E.Narusis 4+11reb+1ast
Delikatesas: V.Uzkuraitis 20+1reb+2ast, A.Kvedaravicius 16+3reb+4ast, V.Volodko 9+4reb, P.Klemas 9+1reb+1ast, V.Jatulevicius 9+5reb+1ast, V.Pikalavicius 4+11reb+2ast
gschID: 148430


Gargzdai - Silute 66-82

16th ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (5-16) was outscored at home by thirteenth ranked Silute (9-12) with the biggest margin this round 82-66 on Friday night. The game without a history. Silute led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 19 Gargzdai-Bremena turnovers and outrebounded them 47-33 including 18 on the offensive glass. Gargzdai-Bremena was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Center Arturas Kaubrys (205-83) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and guard Ignas Razutis (185-87) chipped in 8 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. The best for the losing side was forward Renatas Jonelis (201-84) with 10 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Paulius Jacikas (195-86) scored 14 points and 8 rebounds. Four Gargzdai-Bremena players scored in double figures. Silute moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Meresta. Gargzdai-Bremena lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Silute will face higher ranked Statyba (#6) in Vilnius in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gargzdai-Bremena will play on the road against the league's leader Delikatesas (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Silute: V.Pancerevas 18+1reb, A.Kaubrys 16+10reb+2ast, E.Jurkus 15+2reb+1ast, R.Brencius 9+10reb+1ast, I.Razutis 8+10reb+6ast, E.Ramanauskas 6+8reb+1ast
Gargzdai: P.Jacikas 14+8reb, M.Martinkus 11+4reb+5ast, D.Matutis 10+2reb+1ast, R.Jonelis 10+9reb+5ast, L.Lucinskas 6+5reb+1ast, T.Mazelis 6+2reb+3ast
gschID: 148425


Mazeikiai - Triobet 78-77

A very close game took place in Mazeikiai (derby !!!) between Mazeikiai and Triobet. Ninth ranked Mazeikiai (11-10) got a very close home victory over 7th ranked Triobet (11-10). Mazeikiai managed to escape with a 1-point win 78-77 in the game for the seventh place. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-77. Mazeikiai dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Triobet's 40. The best player for the winners was American guard Parrish Brown (185-84, college: Maryland, agency: Hightower Law Firm) who scored 21 points and 4 steals. Forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) chipped in 14 points and 8 rebounds. Four Mazeikiai players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Martynas Linkevicius (197-85) who recorded 19 points and 5 rebounds and forward Vytautas Kruzikas (199-89) added 15 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Mazeikiai moved-up to seventh place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Triobet. Mazeikiai will meet S.Marciulionio (#14) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Triobet will play against Nafta Universitetas (#3) in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Mazeikiai: P.Brown 21+3reb+1ast, J.Jurgo 14+8reb+1ast, M.Stasys 13+5ast, M.Norkus 10+7reb+2ast, D.Vaitelis 8+6reb+1ast, R.Trakimas 6+2reb+1ast
Triobet: M.Linkevicius 19+5reb, T.Sebeziovas 18+2ast, V.Kruzikas 15+5reb+2ast, H.Vorotnikovas 7+3reb, A.Urbonas 5+1reb+2ast, R.Juknevicius 5+1ast
gschID: 148426


Nafta Universitetas - Perlas-MRU 84-76

Rather predictable result in Klaipeda where second ranked Nafta Universitetas (14-7) defeated 6th ranked Perlas-MRU (11-10) 84-76 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 51-41 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Nafta Universitetas made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Perlas-MRU turnovers. Perlas-MRU was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) stepped up and scored 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and guard Deivydas Anuzis (182-92) chipped in 13 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was guard Gintautas Vileita (193-75, college: Monmouth) with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists and forward Antanas Udras (203-92) scored 19 points and 6 rebounds. Four Nafta Universitetas and five Perlas-MRU players scored in double figures. Nafta Universitetas have a solid series of four victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Radviliskis and Delikatesas. Loser Perlas-MRU dropped to the seventh place with ten games lost. Nafta Universitetas will face Triobet (#7) in Jonava in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Perlas-MRU will play at home against Meresta in Pakruojis.
Top scorers:
Nafta Universitetas: J.Kazakauskas 15+7reb+3ast, D.Anuzis 13+6reb+2ast, E.Lengvinas 12+4reb+4ast, V.Chodosovskis 10+3reb, D.Norkus 10+7reb+1ast, M.Kumpys 10+3reb
Perlas-MRU: A.Udras 19+6reb+2ast, G.Vileita 15+7reb+6ast, M.Kazonas 11+2reb+2ast, T.Padegimas 10+3reb+2ast, E.Molosciakas 10+4reb+3ast, M.Virbalas 4+4reb+2ast
gschID: 148427


Matinga-Juod. - ABRO-Univ. 76-65

Not a big story in a game when 15th ranked ABRO-Universitetas (5-16) was defeated on the road by tenth ranked Matinga-Juod. (11-10) 76-65 on Friday. The game without a history. Matinga-Juod. led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-80) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 14 rebounds for the winners and guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) chipped in 21 points. The best for the losing side was guard Rokas Giedraitis (195-92) with 24 points and 8 rebounds and center Julius Jucikas (205-89) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Matinga-Juod. moved-up to seventh place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser ABRO-Universitetas keeps the fifteenth position with 16 games lost. Matinga-Juod. will face higher ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (#4) in Kaunas in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. ABRO-Universitetas will play at home against Ezerunas-Karys (#11) in Moletai.
Top scorers:
Matinga-Juod.: M.Kalvelis 25+14reb+2ast, A.Birgelis 21+2ast, L.Chmieliauskas 11+4reb+4ast, Z.Kuklierius 11+3reb+6ast, A.Zibuda 4+1ast, A.Krivonis 3+8reb+4ast
ABRO-Univ.: R.Giedraitis 24+8reb+1ast, J.Jucikas 15+15reb+1ast, N.Mika 11+4reb+3ast, A.Gurklys 10+4reb+1ast, A.Kurauskas 3+3reb+2ast, E.Grikstas 2+3reb+1ast
gschID: 148424




*****************************************************
  MALAYSIA   


Dragons Win over UCBL All Stars - by Abdallah Alomari
The charity game was organized by Dato Saifuddin. The game gave fans their first look at the new Dragons roster for Season 3 of the ABL. Shee Fai and Batumalai Guganeswaran (182-G-82) hit back to back three pointers to start it off. Tiras Wade (200-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: La-Lafayette) showed off his versatility with a behind the head, count the basket, and one, circus flip shot. Tiras Wade also called for several isolation plays and drove to the basket with some fancy dribbling. Williams powered his way for some easy buckets and could be the best big man in the ABL. At the end of the first quarter, a buzzer beating three pointer by Patrick Cabahug (186-G) delighted the cheering fans. At the half, Dragons led 46-32.
In the second half, the Dragons came out strong and scored 17 straight points. Patrick Cabahug had a good second half with several three pointers and strong drives to the basket. At the end, the international experience of the Dragons showed as they easily outmatched the University College Basketball league (UCBL) All Stars, winning by 26 points. Fans of the Dragons will have to wait at least a month to see the team play again. The Westports Malaysia Dragons will open their first game in MABA Stadium against the San Miguel Beermen on 15th January 2012.


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


Bobcats' Najera out 6-8 weeks after knee surgery - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte Bobcats forward Eduardo Najera (6'8''-F-76, college: Oklahoma) is 8 weeks after undergoing surgery on his left knee Friday morning.

Najera had surgery to repair a cartilage tear, which was discovered during an MRI exam earlier this week. Team physician Dr. Glenn Perry performed the procedure at Midtown Medical Plaza in Charlotte.

Najera, 35, appeared in 31 games for the Bobcats last season. He averaged 2.2 points and 1.4 rebounds in 12 minutes per contest.

Courtesy of www.foxnews.com

2012 CIBACOPA Season is approaching - Teams and Coaches set for tournament - by Alejandro Martinez
The CIBACOPA Season is fast approaching as 2011 Champion Mineros de Cananea sets to defend the title. The preseason will kick off with the 2012 CIBACOPA Preseason Tournament presented by Palermo Casinos on February 10th-12th in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. Teams to be in attendance include: Fuerza Guinda de Nogales, Mineros de Cananea, Rayos de Hermosillo, Bomberos de Mexicali, Zonkeys de Tijuana, Ostieneros de Guaymas, Pioneros de Los Mochis, Frayles de Guasave, Caballeros de Culiacan, Caneros de Navolato, Coras de Tepic.

Confirmed Coaches (alphabetical) for the tournament to include:
Sean Cornell is an Overseas Vet that was all-conference 3 consecutive seasons at South Alabama and whose playing career took him to Europe's Ukrainian SuperLeague as League Finalist in 2001. Coach Cornell has since been instrumental in successful programs as a Coach in the WBA and in the ABA

Mel Devonne is a veteran coach with significant experience in South America, the last several seasons in Brazil. Prior to making his mark on the professional levels, Devonne honed his craft at the collegiate levels while at Johnson C. Smith University and Indiana University Northwest

Steve Mergelsberg is a success story at every level. Nevada State Championship Coach, accomplished collegiate coach at Rutgers University and has taken that success to the professional level coaching in the PBL for the Dayton Air Strikers as well as in the USBL. Coach Merk as he's known has worked with many high level euroleague and NBA prospects and looks to make his mark in Mexico this season

Pascual Padilla is the current Head Coach of the Chico Rage and has led programs on the international level including matchups with the Chinese National Team, the Puerto Rican National Team, and the Mexican National Team

Giovanni Rivera is the current Head Coach of Zonkeys de Tijuana and Aguilas Rojas de San Luis. Previous posts include Abejas de Guanatuato and Volcanes de Toluca in Mexico and also has coached abroad in countries such as Bolivia, Syria and Estonia

Marcus Session has seen basketball take him all over the world and back. Playing in China and Korea for much of the early part of his career, Coach Session also played in Spain, Qatar, and Mexico and credits his work in the community and in the Houston area with helping to mold who he is as a person and a Coach today

Chris Terrell is this year's Director of Basketball Operations for the tournament and is the current Head Coach for Fuerza Guinda de Nogales. Terrell and has over the years seen much success at the professional level including posts in China's top division CBA, Mexico's LNBP and CIBACOPA, and the US based NBADL. A career 81% winner, this will mark Terrell's 7th season in Mexico.

Laurian Watkins is a very accomplished coach from leagues all over the world including the Phillipines, China, Syria, and Saudi Arabia in Asia but also experienced in South America in Guatamala and Costa Rica. But Coach Watkins may be best known for his work in the Continental Basketball Association and with the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Summer League

Sharone Wright is a former 1st Rd. NBA Draft pick for the Philadelphia 76er's where he went on to average over 11 points per game in 1994. Wright also experienced success in Europe and Asia as a player and later as a coach with Eiffel Towers Den Bosch in Holland and in China with Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (CBA-China 1)

To get more information about the CIBACOPA League, the Preseason Tournament, clubs, coaches, or players; visit www.cibacopa.org view other information here on www.latinbasket.com or contact tournament director at chrisbterrell@fuerzaguinda.com



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


Nikola Bulatovic arrested - by Darko Pekic
Nikola Bulatovic (212-C-71, agency: Beo Basket), ex National Team member of Yugoslavia and League Champion with Buducnost, was arrested today in Dominican Republic. Bulatovic was charged for sexual abuse of a minor in March of 1998. in Belgrade. The girl came to his apartment to complete an interview for the school newspaper. Bulatovic said to the court that he was not guilty and that the girl had sex with him but it was on voluntarily basis. However, the court convicted him on 5 years in prison in 2003. But in a strange way he continued his basketball career and played in Romania, Bosnia and Cyprus after the conviction. He even won two national titles with CSU-Asesoft Ploiesti (Romania).

Bulatovic started his career in Buducnost. His golden days were the end of the 90s when he was considered one of the best big men in Yugoslavia and won everything with the National Team.

Sutjeska surprised everybody and crashed Mornar at home - by Darko Pekic
KK Sutjeska is getting serious! They are maybe not the best team in the League but they can be proud on their latest achievement- the win against Mornar (80:67), the only undeafeated team until Thursday. And it will be even harder to beat them now because after the signing of experienced big man Vladan Jocovic (211-C-82), they got another reinforcement- Nemanja Vranjes (188-G-88). Actually its a return of Vranjes to Sutjeska where he started his professesional career and where he became U20 NT member. With the new signings and the new coach Dusan Dubljevic , followed everywhere by their great fans Vojvode, Sutjeska has a chance to become the third force in Montenegrin basketball after Buducnost and Mornar.

Few words about the game..From the start Sutjeska pressed hard and Mornar was unable to respond. Their leader Akeem Scott (186-PG-83, agency: Interperformances, college: High Point) had health problems one day before the game and it influenced a lot on Mornar's chances to win the game. On the other side, the newcomer Vranjes proved his talent and led the team from Niksic to an important victory. He scored 30 points. Filip Barovic (208-F/C-90) returned home and played a good game for the guests (20 points), Akeem Scott added 18 but he was not on his usual level.

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


Pan Arab Games: Tunisia keep the perfect record - by Eurobasket News
Morocco-Tunisia 53:64

Tunisia keep the perfect record at Pan Arab Games in Doha. The team won Group B with 3-0 record beating Morocco 64:53.
Morocco started better and took 13-12 after the first 10 minutes in the court. They also dominated in the second quarter and after 12-8 increased to 25:20 at the halftime. Moreover Morocco won the third frame 18-16 but failed at the end of the game. Tunisia needed massive 28-10 in the last stanza to celebrate their third consecutive win and advanced to the Second Stage. Morocco meanwhile suffered their third straight loss.
Amine Maghrebi (196-G/F-84) stepped up with 17 points and El Mabrouk Mourad netted 12. Youssef Gaddour (198-F-90) ended up with 10 points, while Nizar Knioua (189-G-83) added 8. Reda Rhalimi (213-C-82, college: St.Mary's, CA) delivered 12 points in the losing effort, whilst Anouar Grayssi (193-G-88) brought 11.

Morocco: Reda Rhalimi 12, Anouar Grayssi 11
Tunisia: Amine Maghrebi 17, El Mabrouk Mourad 12, Youssef Gaddour 10, Nizar Knioua 8

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


Knicks sign center Jerome Jordan - by Eurobasket News
The New York Knicks signed center Jerome Jordan (7'0''-C-86, college: Tulsa) on Thursday but lost out on two free agent targets.

Jamal Crawford passed on a return to New York to sign in Portland. Shawne Williams, a Knick last season, signed later Thursday with the New Jersey Nets, who upped their offer after a last-ditch effort by the Knicks to keep him.

The Knicks had only the new two-year exception, worth $2.5 million in the first year, left and were outbid for both players, leaving their bench light on scoring.

Jordan, a second-round pick of Milwaukee in 2010 whose rights the Knicks acquired for cash, is the second 7-footer New York added this offseason.

Jordan set the Conference USA career record for blocked shots while playing at Tulsa. He then spent parts of the past two seasons playing in Serbia before a buyout of his contract was arranged.

Jordan took part in his first practice Thursday and hopes for minutes behind newcomer Tyson Chandler, who helped Dallas win the NBA championship last season before agreeing to a four-year deal worth about $56 million in New York.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Nets waive F Travis Outlaw, sign Ime Udoka - by Eurobasket News
The New Jersey Nets have waived veteran forward Travis Outlaw (6'9''-F-84) and signed veteran free agent forward Ime Udoka (6'5''-F/G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Portland St.).

General manager Billy King announced Thursday that Outlaw was released and designated their amnesty player in a move that should take roughly $7 million off the Nets' salary cap. The moves came a day after the Nets' bid to acquire Dwight Howard of Orlando fell apart.

Outlaw was signed to a five-year, $35 million contract last summer and appeared in all 82 games, starting 55. He averaged 9.2 points and 4.0 rebounds. The 8-year veteran has played in 482 NBA regular season games with the Trail Blazers, Clippers and Nets, averaging 9.5 points and 3.5 rebounds.

Udoka is a journeyman who has played for five teams in his seven-year NBA career, with his most recent stop being a 20-game stint in San Antonio last season where he had 14 points and 19 rebounds in 130 minutes of action.

Udoka has career averages of 5.2 points and 2.9 rebounds in 316 games. The undrafted Portland State product also has played for the Lakers, Knicks, Trail Blazers and Kings.

New Jersey posted a 24-48 record last season.

Courtesy of www.nj.com

Lakers unhappy that Clippers got Chris Paul - by Eurobasket News
The Lakers were hit with a two-by-four of bad news Wednesday, Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) heading to the Clippers and Dwight Howard heading nowhere.

The Lakers were privately fuming Wednesday, according to a person with knowledge of their front office, when Paul, the New Orleans point guard, ended up in Los Angeles six days after the NBA vetoed the Lakers trade for him.

Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak declined to comment through a spokesman. However earlier this week said the NBAs blockade was completely unexpected.

We did the best we can to express our displeasure, Kupchak said Monday.

Courtesy of The Los Angeles Times

Carl Landry, Hornets agree to deal - by Eurobasket News
The New Orleans Hornets and power forward Carl Landry (6'7''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Purdue) have agreed to a one-year, $9 million deal.

With the NBA intent on maintaining as much financial flexibility as possible before selling the Hornets, Landry was offered a bigger number on a one-year basis and took it.

Landry's agent, Mark Bartelstein, told The Associated Press that Landry agreed to only a one-year deal because of the Hornets' 'uncertain ownership situation.'

Landry was eager to keep playing for Hornets coach Monty Williams after arriving in New Orleans last season in a trade-deadline deal with Sacramento, sources said.

Landry also spoke seriously with teams such as New Jersey and Portland, but wanted to stay in New Orleans, sources said.

Bartelstein told the AP that Landry likes working with Williams and that general manager Dell Demps did 'a great job' of recruiting his client for another year in New Orleans.

The 6-foot-9 power forward averaged 11.9 points and 4.6 rebounds last season with the Kings and Hornets. He replaced David West as New Orleans' primary power forward late last season after West suffered a season-ending knee injury.

The deal came less than 24 hours after the Hornets traded All-Star guard Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers for shooting guard Eric Gordon, center Chris Kaman and forward Al-Farouq Aminu.

'He understands the system. He really thrived later in the season after the injury to David West,' Demps said of Landry. 'He had some big-time moments for us in the playoffs last year. We want to grow on that. ... He fits our system and we're excited about the agreement.'

Landry was willing to give the Hornets at least one more season and remain open to signing an extension if the ownership situation becomes more stable, Bartelstein said.

'He's going to have a great year and we'll obviously revisit things in a few months from now,' Bartelstein said.

Courtesy of ESPN

Timberwolves sign veteran forward Bonzi Wells, rookie guard Malcolm Lee - by Eurobasket News
The Minnesota Timberwolves have signed veteran Bonzi Wells (6'5''-F-76, college: Ball St.), who hasnt played in the NBA since 2008.

The forward signed his camp contract Thursday, allowing him to try to mount a comeback but not guaranteeing a spot on the team.

The 35-year-old Wells earned a reputation as a hothead during his earlier years with the Portland Trail Blazers. But he connected with new Minnesota coach Rick Adelman during stops in Sacramento and Houston, and the Wolves hope he can add some veteran toughness to a very young team.

They already have a roster of 15 players with contracts for this season, so if they want to keep Wells, they would have to move or waive another player.

Minnesota also completed a three-year deal with second-round pick Malcolm Lee (6'4''-G-90).

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Blazers, guard Jamal Crawford agree to two-year, $10M pact - by Eurobasket News
The Portland Trail Blazers added some veteran help Thursday, signing free-agent guard Crawford Jamal (6'5''-G-80, college: Michigan) to a two-year, $10 million deal.

The Blazers bested the Sacramento Kings (2-year, $6.4 million) and New York (2-year, $5 million), for the service of Crawford, who captured the NBA Sixth man of the Year award in 2010.

Averaging 15.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game, Crawford is expected to fill the void left by recently retired baller Brandon Roy and Rudy Fernandez, now with the Denver Nuggets.

Blazers guard Wesley Matthews believed Crawford is a good fit for a team that needs some scoring spark off the bench.

'I'm excited about it,' Matthews told ESPN Thursday. 'He wants to come and win and that's what we're about.'

Crawford averaged 14.2 points and 3.2 dimes last season for the Atlanta Hawks. The vetergan guard also normed 15.8 points and 2.6 assists in 23 playoff games, all with the Hawks.

Courtesy of www.allheadlinenews.com

Milwaukee Bucks sign second round rookie forward Jon Leuer - by Eurobasket News
The Milwaukee Bucks have signed rookie forward Jon Leuer (6'10''-F-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wisconsin) to a contract, General Manager John Hammond announced today. Leuer was the 40th overall selection in the 2011 NBA Draft.

Prior to signing with Milwaukee, Leuer appeared in 10 games for the Fraport Skyliners Frankfurt team in the German Bundesliga where he averaged 14.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists, while shooting 49.5 percent from the field. He also played in three EuroCup games where he tallied 12.0 points and 4.3 rebounds per contest.

Leuer played four seasons at the University of Wisconsin - Madison with career averages of 11.2 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.1 assists while shooting 48.2 percent from the field. As a senior, Leuer had career-highs in points (18.3 ppg) and rebounds (7.2 rpg) while shooting 47.0 percent from the field. He finished his Badger career ranked 12th in school history in career points (1,376) and was a First-Team All-Big Ten selection as a senior.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Nets sign Shawne Williams - by Eurobasket News
The Nets signed free-agent forward Shawne Williams (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Memphis) away from the rival Knicks on Thursday.

Williams, a 6-9 forward, played in 64 games for New York and posted career-best averages of 7.1 points and 3.7 rebounds in 20.7 minutes per game.

'Shawne is a versatile player who will add a needed dimension to our frontcourt,' Nets general manager Billy King said. 'He can play inside as well as shoot the 3, and is a welcome addition to our roster.'

The Nets also waived veteran forward Travis Outlaw and signed veteran free agent forward Ime Udoka.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Trail Blazers will use amnesty to waive Brandon Roy - by Eurobasket News
After all the injuries, all the comebacks and all the speculation about his future, Brandon Roy (6'6''-G-84, college: Washington) on Thursday found peace.

The Trail Blazers informed his agent, Greg Lawrence, they used the NBA's newly instituted amnesty clause to waive the former three-time All-Star.

The decision to waive Roy allowed the Blazers to have enough free agent money to sign Jamal Crawford, one of Roy's closest friends. Crawford on Thursday was in the process of signing a two year deal worth $10 million, with an option for him to leave after one season.

'This gives some closure,'' Lawrence said. 'Brandon's fully at peace. It makes him happy it allows them to sign a player.''

By signing Crawford, the team would need to have the mid-level exception, which is afforded to teams under the leagues tax threshold. In order to get under the threshold, the Blazers needed to waive Roy and his $15 million salary for this season under the leagues new amnesty clause. Friday was the deadline for teams to use amnesty this season.

Coach Nate McMillan said Roy's official departure from the Blazers after five seasons was tough because the organization was losing 'not only a special person, but a special player.''

'The Closer has closed,'' McMillan said, referring to Roy's knack of hitting game-winning shots. 'He was a guy who in the last few years was one of the best closers in the league. When Brandon had the ball in his hands late in ball games, I was really comfortable. You knew something good was going to happen. He was either going to create a shot for himself, or a shot for his teammate. He had some big moments in a short career.''

Roy ended his Blazers career with averages of 19.0 points, 4.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds in 321 games. He shot 46 percent from the field, 35.2 percent from three-point range, and 80.1 percent from the free-throw line.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com

Warriors sign reserve forward Dominic McGuire - by Eurobasket News
Dominic McGuire (6'9''-F/G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Fresno St.) signed a one-year deal believed to be worth just less than $1 million with the Warriors on Thursday, giving the team its only experienced backup small forward.

Rookie shooting guard Klay Thompson will probably see some minutes behind starting small forward Dorell Wright, and training camp-invitees Edwin Ubiles and Chris Wright are promising. But the Warriors know exactly what they're going to get from McGuire.

McGuire, a 26-year-old who has played for three teams in four NBA seasons, is 6-foot-9 with a wingspan of nearly 7 feet and a propensity to block shots. He had 18 blocks in a game at Lincoln High-San Diego, and he was fifth best in the nation with 3.6 blocks a game as a junior at Fresno State - a year after transferring from Cal.

A poor shooter who has a career field-goal percentage of 40.8 and has attempted only 12 three-pointers in four seasons, McGuire has found a niche on the defensive end. He played 14.6 minutes a game with Charlotte last season, averaging 3.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 0.6 blocks. His 2.08 blocks per 48 minutes ranked 22nd among all forwards.

'He's a solid defender and an excellent athlete,' coach Mark Jackson said. 'We need him to play with reckless abandon and be an energy guy off our bench.'

Limited Kwame: Center Kwame Brown isn't in basketball shape yet and is expected to play a limited role in Saturday's preseason opener against Sacramento.

'I'm going to put demands on him, but I'm not going to be too crazy,' Jackson said. 'The most important thing is that he's ready when it matters.'

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Mavericks waive G Andy Rautins - by Eurobasket News
The Mavericks have waived guard Andrew Rautins (6'4''-PG-86, college: Syracuse) five days after he was acquired in a three-team trade that sent Tyson Chandler to the New York Knicks.

Rautins was acquired along with a 2012 second-round draft pick from Washington, while New York got Chandler and the draft rights to Ahmad Nivins and Giorgos Printezis from Dallas.

Washington received forward Ronny Turiaf, a 2013 second round pick and cash considerations from New York and a 2012 second round pick from Dallas.

Rautins was a second-round pick out of Syracuse by the Knicks in 2010.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Bobcats sign Reggie Williams, bolster 3-point outlook - by Eurobasket News
The Charlotte Bobcats signing Reggie Williams (6'5''-G/F-86, agency: Interperformances, college: VMI) will become an exercise in deferred gratification.

Williams, a 3-point specialist from Golden State, signed a two-year contract with the Bobcats Thursday. Immediately the team announced Williams will need minor surgery on his left knee to repair a meniscus tear.

Williams said he injured his knee while playing in the Spanish League during the lockout. A Spanish doctor prescribed treatment, rather than surgery, but Williams will soon have the procedure. The team projects hell be out 6-8 weeks, though Williams hopes to trim some time from that rehab.

I trusted what they said, so I did it, but it didnt work out so well, Williams said of the medical advice he got in Spain. Now well just go in and clean it up.

At 6-foot-6, Williams can play shooting guard or small forward. The Bobcats were the NBAs second-worst 3-point team last season at 32.7 percent. Williams was top-10 in the league individually last season at 42.3 percent.

Williams spent 1 1/2 seasons at Golden State after stints in Europe and the NBAs Development League. As a Warrior, he worked extensively with now-Bobcats lead assistant Stephen Silas.

Hes an offensive machine, Silas said. He can stretch the floor with his 3-point shooting, but he also has a mid-range game. He didnt really shoot 3s in college (at Virginia Military Institute). He was more of like a slasher and mid-range guy.

Williams said he developed 3-point range in the D-League, then refined it working with two Warriors teammates Charlotteans Stephen Curry and Anthony Morrow.

To have a guy with the capability to come off the bench and give us 20 points, or if someone is down, to come in and start and we wont miss a beat? That will help a whole bunch, Silas said of Williams.

Silas said lacking 3-point shooting had a variety of negative effects last season.

If youre not able to stretch the defense with 3-point shooters, they can just load (defenders) into the paint and make it really, really hard to penetrate or post up, Silas said.

And its tough when youre trying to come back without 3-point range. You cut a deficit to four or five and you need that one (3-point) shot to put it over the top. That gets the crowd into the game.

Courtesy of www.charlotteobserver.com

Magic re-sign free agent Earl Clark - by Eurobasket News
The Magic have announced they have re-signed forward Clark Earl (6'9''-F-88, college: Louisville), hoping to add depth it the front court.

The 6-foot-10 Clark was in the Orlando's practice facility Thursday, but hadn't officially signed his contract or taken his mandatory physical.

Yahoo! Sports reported the deal is for two years.

The Magic are off Friday, but the third-year Clark could be in uniform Saturday for an open scrimmage the Magic are having for fans.

Clark appeared in 33 games for Orlando last season, averaging 4.1 points and 11.9 minutes per game. He was acquired in trade from Phoenix last December that also included Jason Richardson and Hedo Turkoglu.

Magic coach Stan Van Gundy says he envisions the 23-year-old Clark coming off the bench as a defensive stopper at both forward spots.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Denver Nuggets sign forward Michael Ruffin - by Eurobasket News
The Denver Nuggets have signed NBA veteran forward Michael Ruffin (6'8''-F-77, college: Tulsa), bringing their training-camp roster to 16.

Ruffin, 6-8, 248, has averaged 1.7 points and 3.9 rebounds with six teams in nine NBA seasons. He most recently played for the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2008-09 season.

Ruffin, a graduate of Cherry Creek High School in Greenwood Village, Colo., spent part of last season coaching the Colorado Kings of the American Basketball Association before playing for Obradoiro CAB in Spain. More updates on Denver Nuggets are coming.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Memphis Grizzlies waive center Mikki Moore - by Eurobasket News
The Memphis Grizzlies waived center Mikki Moore (6'11''-C-75, agency: Priority Sports, college: Nebraska), Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced Thursday.

Moore (6-11, 225) holds career averages of 5.8 points and 3.9 rebounds in 557 games (181 starts) over a 12-year NBA career (1998-2010) with the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, New Jersey Nets, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Clippers, Seattle SuperSonics, Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors.

The 36-year-old University of Nebraska product was originally signed by Memphis on Dec. 10, 2011.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Kobe Bryant blames owners - by Eurobasket News
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) swears he's moved on from the three-team trade that was nixed by NBA commissioner David Stern last week, ultimately preventing the Los Angeles Lakers from acquiring Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest).

But that doesn't mean Bryant is buying Stern's explanation that he acted independently of the protests of owners and vetoed the trade purely because of 'basketball reasons.'

'I think other owners did not want the Lakers to make significant improvements again,' Bryant said after practice Thursday, hours before Paul's introductory news conference with the Los Angeles Clippers, less than five miles across town.

'We always contended as players that the lockout was really more so about the owners fighting amongst themselves, which is what you just saw [with the vetoed trade],' Bryant said. 'You got Chris Paul coming here and the other owners weren't with that, because you don't want another great player coming to L.A., and all of the sudden Los Angeles has another player that can carry them on well after I retire. So, it's more about the owners bickering amongst themselves.'

Bryant added that the Lakers were 'getting hammered' by the new tenets of the recently ratified collective bargaining agreement, which will include a revenue sharing obligation of $50 million per season by the Lakers, as well as a more punitive luxury tax system that will severely penalize the Lakers unless they cut down their $83 million payroll between now and 2013-14 when the new taxes kick in.

Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss has continued to privately seethe over Stern's decision, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. Buss' anger did not boil over when the crosstown Clippers acquired Paul. But like Bryant, Buss took exception to Stern's characterization of what went on behind the scenes before the trade was vetoed.

Stern told reporters on a conference call Wednesday night that New Orleans Hornets general manager Dell Demps never believed the trade between the Lakers, Houston Rockets and Hornets was finished before Stern stepped in to kill it.

'That's a flat-out lie,' said the source with knowledge of Buss' thinking.

Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak told reporters Monday that the team 'did the best we can to express our displeasure' to the league.

Despite frustration from the Lakers over how the trade went down, especially since Lamar Odom was traded to the Dallas Mavericks because he requested a trade after being hurt by being included in the Paul deal, Bryant shrugged off the outcome.

'My message to the guys is, look: L.O. [Odom] is gone, there's nothing we can do about it,' Bryant said. 'So, other guys have to step up and contribute. Ron [Metta World Peace] has to have more responsibilities, [Devin] Ebanks has to have more responsibilities and that's just the way it goes.'

Added Bryant: 'It's just part of business. Sometimes you get trades done, sometimes you don't. It's as simple as that.'

Lakers center Andrew Bynum isn't fretting the failed trade at all. In fact, he thinks the Lakers are better off with it falling through.

'I'm happy we didn't do it,' Bynum said. 'I don't think you trade two 7-footers for a point guard. Ever.'

With the failed Lakers trade in the past, the Clippers' future looks bright having acquired Paul, Caron Butler and Chauncey Billups this offseason to complement the returning talent in Blake Griffin, Mo Williams and DeAndre Jordan.

'It's a great acquisition,' said Bryant. 'It's tough, Eric Gordon I've always thought extremely high of him and [Chris] Kaman had a year there where he played extremely well, so it's tough to see them go, but Chris is a fantastic player. They made a great addition.'

When asked if the Clippers were a playoff team, Bryant said, 'They should be.'

He also believes they 'could be' a contender to come out of the Western Conference.

'Their roster looks extremely impressive,' Bryant said. 'Chris is a great floor general. I'm sure they'll get after it defensively as well. There will be a lot of energy behind them. I'm sure they'll do more than well.'

Bryant welcomed the shift in the professional basketball landscape in L.A.

'It's about damn time,' Bryant said. 'We had one year there where they were doing something in the playoffs and we weren't [in 2006]. And now it looks like it can be something that's more consistent.'

Griffin's first words about Paul's arrival -- 'Lob city!' he said gleefully to fellow high-flying teammate Jordan on Wednesday -- have already become a Twitter trending topic and a T-shirt in Los Angeles.

Bryant admitted the 'Lob City' Clippers will be exciting.

'I'm definitely going to go watch them,' Bryant said. 'Come on, man. Blake Griffin has like a 60-inch vertical. Chris is vastly entertaining. For sure, I'll definitely check them out. They're a team with a high motor. They're young and they run up and down the floor and this, that and the other.'

But he doesn't think an exciting style of play is necessary to be successful.

'I like jewelry. ... I like winning,' Bryant said. 'If at this stage of our careers we're the boring team, then we're the boring team. As long as we get results.'

Bryant reiterated his stance that the Lakers were good enough to compete for a championship as presently constructed and continued to support the team's front office.

'I don't expect this to be a situation like it was in 2005 when they said, 'You know what? We're just going to cut payroll, we're just going to cut everything and not contend for a championship,'' Bryant said. 'I don't expect that to be the case. I expect them to still try to be aggressive and make moves to build a championship team and if that's the case, I'll stand out of their way and let them do what they do.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Jeff Adrien leaves Benetton Treviso for Houston Rockets - by Eurobasket News
Jeff Adrien (201-F-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Connecticut) agreed a two-year contract with the Houston Rockets, according to Marc J. Spears of Yahoo! Sports. Reportedly, he already terminated his deal with Benetton Treviso and is expected to sign with the Rockets in the coming days. Adrien played 9 games for Benetton in Serie A averaging 13.3 points and 9 rebounds. He also added 13.6 ppg and 8.4 rpg for 5 EuroCup games. He spent some time with the Golden State Warriors last season. For 22 games with them Adrien registered 2.6 ppg and 2.6 rpg. He also played for the NBA D-League teams Erie BayHawks and Rio Grande Valley Vipers last season. With the Vipers, Jeff Adrien had 19.9 ppg, 12.2 rpg and 1.5 apg. He graduated at the University of Connecticut in 2009. His rookie season Adrien spent with Spanish Leche Rio Breogan Lugo.

San Antonio Spurs re-sign Steve Novak - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have re-signed Steve Novak (6'10''-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Marquette). Per club policy details of the contract were not released.

Novak, a 6-10 forward, was signed to two 10-day contracts last season before signing for the remainder of the season on March 4. In 23 games with the Spurs, he averaged 4.0 points and 1.0 rebound in 8.6 minutes while shooting .525 (31-59) from the field, .548 (23-42) from three-point range and 1.000 (8-8) from the free throw line. Novak posted a season-high 19 points (6-10 FG, 5-8 3FG, 2-2 FT) and 4 rebounds in 18 minutes vs. Charlotte on March 19. Prior to signing with the Spurs he appeared in two games with the Reno Bighorns in the NBA Development League, averaging 18.5 points and 6.5 rebounds in 29.5 minutes. Novak started the season with the Dallas Mavericks appearing in seven games, averaging 1.6 points in 2.6 minutes.

Novak has appeared in 225 regular season games with Houston, the L.A. Clippers, Dallas and San Antonio in his five-year NBA career, averaging 4.0 points and 1.1 rebounds in 9.7 minutes per game. For his career he is shooting .443 (320-723) from the field and .417 (214-513) from three-point range.

Courtesy of www.poundingtherock.com

Bobcats' Najera out 6-8 weeks after knee surgery - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte Bobcats forward Eduardo Najera (6'8''-F-76, college: Oklahoma) is 8 weeks after undergoing surgery on his left knee Friday morning.

Najera had surgery to repair a cartilage tear, which was discovered during an MRI exam earlier this week. Team physician Dr. Glenn Perry performed the procedure at Midtown Medical Plaza in Charlotte.

Najera, 35, appeared in 31 games for the Bobcats last season. He averaged 2.2 points and 1.4 rebounds in 12 minutes per contest.

Courtesy of www.foxnews.com

Trail Blazers sign free agent Craig Smith - by Eurobasket News
The Trail Blazers flurry of Thursday activity did not end with the release of Brandon Roy and free agent signing of Jamal Crawford.

Craig Smith (6'7''-F-83, college: Boston Coll.), a 6-foot-7, 265-pound free agent forward, announced on twitter that he was poised to become a Blazer, and a team source later confirmed the signing to The Oregonian.

Portland here I come ... Smith wrote on Twitter, before telling Blazers center and one-time teammate Marcus Camby that he was on my way...

Details of Smith's contract are unknown, but it will feature a guarantee for this season. That means the Blazers will have to release a player before the start of the regular season.

Earl Barron is the most likely candidate to be released, although both he and Chris Johnson feature non-guaranteed contracts.

The Rhino, as smith is nicknamed, will bring a bruisers mentality and add size and depth to the Blazers front court.

The 28 year-old from Boston College has played five seasons for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Clippers. His most successful statistical season came in 2008-09, when Smith averaged 10.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game with the Timberwolves.

Smith has played the last two seasons with the Clippers, averaging 5.4 points and 2.4 rebounds in 48 appearances last season.

Smith's signing comes the same day the Blazers signed free agent guard Jamal Crawford to a two-year contract and used an 'amnesty clause' to waive Brandon Roy.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com

Bulls Defeat Pacers in Preseason Opener - by Daniel Gibson
INDIANAPOLIS,IND.---Last April the eighth seeded Indiana Pacers gave the number one seeded Chicago Bulls all they could handle in the first round of the playoffs. Tonight the Midwest rivals reunited to kick off the preseason.

The Pacers added some new pieces to an already young and talented team. Home town hero, George Hill, came over from the San Antonio Spurs in a draft night trade and David West was picked up via free-agency. Hill received a loud ovation when he entered the game but West did not play.

The Chicago Bulls didnt make many moves but they did attempt to provide the reigning MVP, Derrick Rose, some offensive help. Richard Hamilton was signed and was on the court warming up pregame but didnt play either.

There was more excitement in the air than the usual preseason game would carry after the lengthy lockout was finally lifted. Fans cheered loudly at the tip off and even louder when Rose picked up an offensive foul early on. He picked up another quick one and sat for the majority of the first quarter. The Pacers used that to their advantage and lead 33-22.

Rose was back on the court to start the second quarter off and the Bulls picked it up on both ends of the floor. Pacers coach Frank Vogel used Lance Stephenson at point guard in extended minutes during the second period. Last season Stephenson did see much action on the floor but everybody in the organization is aware of how talented he is, especially the team president Larry Bird. Last year Bird said Stephenson was the 'best player on the Pacers.'

The Pacers free flowing offensive became stagnant through the second quarter and the Bulls used that combined with repeated trips to the foul line as an opportunity to get back into the game. The Bulls outscored them 30-14 to lead 50-47 at the half.

Coming out of the break the teams battled back and forth with the Pacers getting Roy Hibbert involved in the low post and the Bulls penetrating for points in the paint. The entire quarter went back and forth with neither team able to take the momentum and pull away. The Bulls took a 72-71 lead into the fourth.

Both teams had their second unit in to start the fourth quarter. Bulls rookie Jimmy Butler received a rude welcome to the league after Dahntay Jones clobbered him on a fast break. The Pacers couldnt buy a bucket over the first few minutes and the Bulls swarming defense didnt make it any easier to score. One play that captures their offensive struggles was when George Hill missed a wide open jump shot, chased down the rebound and passed to Tyler Hansbrough who missed a wide open layup. He then got his follow attempt blocked too.

The Pacers were never able to get hot and string a couple of baskets together. The Bulls cruised to a 95-86 victory and Rose led the way with 16 points. Most of his points came from the free-throw line as he finished 10-10. They will have a rematch in a couple of days for the final preseason tune-up before the regular season begins on Christmas day.

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  NBLCANADA   


Morgan Lewis return set for December 22 - by Eurobasket News
The Oshawa Power are excited to announce that NBL Canada number one overall draft pick Morgan Lewis (6'4''-F-87, college: Findlay, OH) has been cleared to play and will be back in the lineup on Thursday December 22 at the GM Centre for a warm welcome celebration when the Power take on the Summerside Storm. 10 lucky Power fans will receive a large autographed poster of Lewis in action.

'We're really happy to have Morgan back,' said Gary Durrant, President of Basketball Operations. 'He's been a true leader for us on and off the court.'

Lewis was injured in a hard fall suffered against the London Lighting on November 18.

He suffered some serious injuries including broken teeth, broken bones and needed stitches. Lewis was under the care of team physician Dr. Joel Kerr and also saw outside medical specialists who gave the green light for him to resume action next Thursday.

Next up for the Power is a game vs. the Quebec Kebs at 7:30 p.m. tonight at Laval University. The Power will battle the Halifax Rainmen on Sunday December 18 at 2:00 p.m. and then the Moncton Miracles on Monday December 19 at 7:00 p.m. to conclude the team's three-game road trip.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Canton Charge sign Trent Strickland, waive Tyrone Kent - by Eurobasket News
Trent Strickland (6'5''-G-84, college: Wake Forest), a 6-foot-5 veteran of the Belgian League, has been signed by the Canton Charge of the NBA Development League.

The Charge have waived guard/forward Tyrone Kent (6'5''-G/F-86, college: Toledo).

Strickland, 27, spent the last two seasons playing for the Antwerp Giants of the Belgian League. During the 2010-11 season, he played in 15 games and averaged 7.5 points on .440 shooting, 3.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.1 steals in 22.3 minutes per game. In 2009-10 with Antwerp, he played in 15 games and averaged 22.6 minutes, 9.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, 0.5 assists and 1.3 steals.

Prior to joining Antwerp, Strickland spent two seasons with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the NBA Development League. During the 2008-09 season, he started 50 games, averaging 17.5 points on .446 shooting, 6.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.0 steal in 31.1 minutes per game.

During the 2007-08 season, Strickland played in 47 games (29 starts) for the Vipers, averaging 12.9 points on .431 shooting, 5.7 rebounds, 0.7 assists and 0.7 steals in 26.1 minutes per game.

While at Wake Forest University, Strickland played in 126 games. In hiis senior season in 2006, he played in 33 games (31 starts), averaging 11.6 points on .482 shooting, 6.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 0.7 steals in 32.3 minutes per game.

The 6-5 Kent appeared in seven games for the Charge this season, averaging 5.0 points, 2.3 rebounds and 0.6 assists. He was drafted by Canton in the fifth round (78th overall) of the 2011 NBA Development League Draft.

Courtesy of www.cantonrep.com

Latest games - by Eurobasket News
Summerside S. - Halifax R. 107-122
The Halifax Rainmen defeated the Summerside Storm on Thursday night at the EastLink Arena in front of 1,863 fans. The final score of the game was 122 to 107. The Rainmen displayed a fantastic team effort with eight of eleven players scoring in the double digits. Leading all Rainmen was Lawrence Wright (6'5''-F-84, college: Bradley) with 19 points in only 20 minutes of play. Eric Crookshank (6'7''-F-80, college: Idaho St.) had a double-double with ten rebounds and ten points, shooting five-for-six from the floor. Taliek Brown (6'1''-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Connecticut) also had a double-double with 11 assists and 12 points. Leading the Storm was Mike Williams (6'7''-F-85, college: Cincinnati) with 27 points and 15 rebounds. Eric Gilchrese chipped in with 18 points. The Storm shot a dismal 47 per cent from the charity stripe, while the Rainmen shot 76 per cent. The box score statistics can be found at www.dakstats.com. The Rainmen will play their next game at the Halifax Metro Centre on Sunday at 2 p.m., when they host the Oshawa Power for the first time this season. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

St.John M.R. - Quebec K. 89-91
The Saint John Mill Rats went down in yet another home-court heartbreaker, losing to the Quebec Kebs 91-89 in National Basketball League of Canada action at Harbour Station Sunday afternoon in front of 1,853 fans. With the score 89-86, Mill Rats forward Steve DeLuca (6'6''-G/F, college: Brandeis)'s three-point attempt rattled in out of the rim with just seconds left on the clock. With the hometown squad in desperation mode, Kebs guard Ralphy Holmes (6'4''-G-79, college: CS Fullerton) was fouled and made good on his ensuing free throws. A late three from Saint John's Greg Plummer turned out to be too little too late. Going into the fourth quarter down 74-63, the Mill Rats stormed back in the dying minutes of the final period to knot the game 81-81, thanks to the hot hand of PJ Young who poured in 10 points in the quarter. With Saint John down by just one, 87-86, Mill Rats centre Antoine Tisby (6'9''-F-83, college: S.Carolina) had his pass intercepted. Kebs forward Yannick Anzuluni got fouled on the ensuing play and was perfect on the charity stripe. From there the visitors didn't look back. With the loss the Mill Rats drop to .500 with a record of 6-6, while the Kebs improve to 9-5. For Young, who had his best game of the year, he was frustrated his efforts didn't translate into a win. 'It's tough to take, we didn't have a great start,' said Young. 'We came out a bit slow. But we have some new players and we're still trying to gel so we just have to learn to be more focused all the time.' The Mill Rats once again got off to a slow start and had to dig themselves out of a hole. Newcomer Kevin Francis (6'8''-F-84, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Vincennes Univ.) shouldered most of the scoring load pouring in 11 points in the first quarter. He ended up with a game-high 19 points, including two put-back slams. Holmes also had 19 points to lead Quebec. The Port City squad struggled early on to find a rhythm and contain a quick and athletic Quebec squad. The Mill Rats ended the first quarter trailing 30-21. Sparked by timely threes from Plummer and Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts), the Mill Rats erased a double-digit deficit in the second quarter and took a 40-38 lead with four minutes left in the second. From there the score went back and forth with the game knotted 43-43 at the half. But the visitors took advantage of a flat Saint John squad in the third and went on a 7-0 run to start the period. A three from Holmes gave the visitors an 11-point lead at the midpoint of the quarter, which they maintained, ending the stanza with a 74-63 lead. Like Young, Mill Rats head coach Jaren Jackson attributed the loss to growing pains. With so much new talent he said the team needs a little time to go on a run. But he was impressed by his squad's secondary scoring. 'It's a tough loss,' said Jackson. 'I wish we would have won it for Modibo (Diarra) and the guys off the bench. They played really hard at both ends of the floor.' The Mill Rats will play their next game against the Moncton Miracles (0-10) at the Moncton Coliseum on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Courtesy of http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com

Oshawa P. - London L. 80-87
The Oshawa Power lose the final game of their mini three game series to the London Lightning 87-80 at the GM Centre in Oshawa. The Lightning take the short series two games to one, with both wins coming on the road. The final game of the series began with an Oshawa Power surge, as the Power controlled the first half and took a 46-34 lead into the locker room at halftime. Much like the first meeting Thursday night, it was a big third quarter by the Lightning that put them in position to steal one on the road. The Lightning started off the third frame on a 13-0 run, and with the late game heroics of former NBA player Rodney Buford (6'5''-G-77, college: Creighton) they closed out the seven point victory. Canadian Paul Campbell had his best game in his short time in a Power jersey recording 8 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks. 'Great presence, great energy' said Canadian Point Guard Tut Ruach of Campbell. 'He helped us a lot on defense and gave us some buckets.' His size and athleticism is a welcome sight to Power fans, as he was noticeably active all night long. Marcus Johnson continued his strong play in the absence of first overall draft pick Morgan Lewis (6'4''-F-87, college: Findlay, OH) as he led all scorers with 24 points. Power Forward Omari Johnson (6'9''-F, college: Oregon St.) added a near double-double with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC) added another double-double on the season for the Lightning, recording 20 points and 12 rebounds. Eddie Smith added 19 points in the win.The Power will head to the University of Laval to take on the Quebec Kebs on Friday December 16 at 7:30 p.m. *Courtesy of www.oyetimes.com

Moncton M. - St.John M.R. 99-102
The Moncton Miracles continue to suffer heartbreak. They dropped to 0-11 with a 102-99 loss to the Saint John Mill Rats in National Basketball League of Canada action on Wednesday night in front of 1,136 noisy fans at the Moncton Coliseum. Steve DeLuca snapped a tie and drained a three-point buzzer beater shot to lift Saint John to victory in a hard-fought and highly entertaining game that had all kinds of momentum twists. The Mill Rats moved into third place in the seven-team league at 7-6. Moncton suffered its fifth loss by five points or less. It's 0-2 versus Saint John with both those contests decided by five points or less. Moncton will meet the Summerside Storm on Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Credit Union Place and Saint John on Saturday at 7 p.m. at Harbour Station. The Miracles will then complete the pre-Christmas schedule against the Oshawa Power on Monday at 7 p.m. at the Moncton Coliseum. Anthony Anderson led Saint John with 24 points, followed by Antoine Tisby with 22 and Calvin Cage (6'0''-G-84, agency: VVG Sports, college: Buffalo) with 16. Victor Morris was Moncton's top offensive player with 18 points. Andrew Francis and Darrell Wonge, both with 16 points, were next. Others in double digits were Boubacar Coly with 15, Sylvania Watkins with 13 and Trayvon Lathan with 10. Saint John held a 20-12 lead with 5:33 remaining in the first quarter. Moncton called a timeout at that stage and then went on a 13-5 run down the stretch to create a 25-25 tie at the end of the period. Wonge was the offensive catalyst for the Miracles in the first quarter. He scored 11 points and drained three three-point shots. The Miracles scored the first basket and then went on to trail throughout the first quarter. They pulled into a 25-25 tie when Sylvania Watkins, making his debut with the club, scored a spectacular basket just as time was expiring in the period. The second quarter continued to be evenly played with terrific back and forth action. The lead changed hands several times, neither team mounted any big runs and there was never more than a five-point spread on the scoreboard. It was tied 47-47 with 30 seconds remaining in the second quarter. Tisby drained a basket in the dying seconds of the first half to allow Saint John to take a 49-47 lead into the intermission. Moncton went on a 6-0 run to begin the second half and jumped in front 53-49. Saint John bounced back to outscore it opponent 29-11 over the remainder of the third quarter and opened up a 14-point lead at the end of the period. The Miracles were trailing 67-63 with 4:28 remaining in the third quarter, but the things started to unravel for the hometown squad. The Mill Rats went on an 11-1 run down the stretch to take a 78-64 lead into halftime. Moncton battled back in thrilling fashion by outscoring its opponent 35-24 in the fourth quarter. The lead changed hands a few times with Moncton ahead 85-84 with seven minutes remaining. The Mill Rats always held the lead over the final seven minutes, but never by more than six points. The Miracles rallied to create a 99-99 tie with 12 seconds remaining, all of which set the stage for the Mill Rats to leave the building in complete silence with a game winning three-point shot at the final buzzer. Courtesy of http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com

NBLC Standings
NBL Canada Standings
 1. London L. 11-3 
 2. Quebec K. 9-5 
 3. Halifax R. 7-4 
 4. St.John M.R. 7-6 
 5. Oshawa P. 6-8 
 6. Summerside S. 5-8 
 7. Moncton M. 0-11 


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  NCAA1   


Top 25 - Men
GWC Standings
 1. Utah Valley 0-0 (6-5) 
 2. N.Dakota 0-0 (5-5) 
 3. NJIT 0-0 (4-5) 
 4. Houston Baptist 0-0 (4-6) 
 5. UTPA 0-0 (4-8) 
 6. Chicago St. 0-0 (0-10) 


No. 14 Wisconsin beats Savannah State 66-33 - by Eurobasket News
Savannah State coach Horace Broadnax said his Tigers have the means to be competitive with the likes of No. 14 Wisconsin.

He just needs them to believe it.

The Tigers struggled badly on offense Thursday night in a 66-33 loss to the Badgers, who were led by Jared Berggren's (6'10''-F/C) 13 points.

It was the fifth of six games Savannah State (4-8) is playing on the road to start the season against the likes of Georgetown, Indiana and Georgia Tech. All have been blowout losses.

'We've got the means to be successful and competitive,' Broadnax said, adding his team hasn't quite figured that out yet.

Then again, a lot of teams have struggled against Wisconsin (10-2). Coming into the game giving up a national-best 44.7 points a game, Thursday marked the fourth time Wisconsin has held an opponent to 33 points or less.

'We stuck to our rules,' Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan said simply of the effort of his Badgers, who were largely dominant from start to finish, save for a brief letup to start the second half.

Wisconsin used runs of 11-0 and 11-2 in the first half to push their lead to 30-10 with 4 minutes left. The Tigers (4-8) then looked like they might give Wisconsin a challenge early in the second half. They cut the lead to 15 points twice, the last time at 41-26 with just under 14 minutes to go.

But Wisconsin poured it on from there, reeling off a 23-4 run over the next 12 minutes before Ryan pulled the starters.

Cedric Smith (6'3''-G-91) and Arnold Lewis led the Tigers with eight points each.

Jordan Taylor (6'1''-G) and Ryan Evans (6'6''-G/F) scored 12 points apiece for Wisconsin, while Josh Gasser added 10.

It was the last time the Badgers played before final exams. They return to action Dec. 23 against Mississippi Valley State, and Taylor said the Badgers eased up to start the second half.

'Those are lapses we're not going to be able to afford against other teams,' Taylor said.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, their numerous struggles offensively prevented them from taking advantage of the opening.

Shooting just 33 percent for the game, the lone bright spots for the Tigers were the 12 offensive rebounds that led to 10 second-chance points.

But that was about it. They had no outside presence, going 0 for 3 from 3-point range, even though the Tigers averaged 16 3-point attempts coming into the game. They also got to the free throw line just five times, hitting three.

'I thought we did a pretty good job of taking away what they posed as their threats,' Ryan said. 'Every game you're trying to do that.'

Savannah State regularly saw the Badgers capitalize on their mistakes, turning 16 turnovers into 24 points.

It didn't help the Tigers' cause that leading scorer Rashad Hassan committed his second foul less than 5 minutes into the game and was a nonfactor. He was also pulled early in the second half after missing a layup, not returning until midway through the period. Averaging 13 points a game coming in, he finished with six in just 12 minutes.

Broadnax said he limited Hassan's minutes in the second half to send a message to the redshirt junior, who sat out last season. Rather than taking the layup that he missed early in the second half, Broadnax said he wanted Hassan to go strong to the hoop and try dunking the ball as he preaches in practice.

Likewise, he sat Preston Blackmon for a while to send a message over his failure to chase a loose ball. The guard is third on the team in scoring at 7.5 points a game, but he had just two points in 16 minutes.

'He's going to be all right,' Broadnax said of Hassan. 'We need him to play at a higher level at this level to be competitive. If he's not going to do it, then he just needs to be an assistant coach for a while.'

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Kennesaw State loses 104-67 to No. 10 Missouri - by Eurobasket News
Lewis Preston was determined to not let Delbert Love (6'0''-G) fall through the cracks.

While recruiting another player in Cleveland as an assistant at Penn State, Preston walked away impressed with Love's 24 points for the opposing team.

Kennesaw State's first-year coach watched with pride as Love scored 27 points in a 104-67 loss at No. 10 Missouri on Thursday night.

'You've always got to make sure you'll find the right guys,' Lewis said. 'I think he's a great fit here and he's going to continue to be a great fit here for years to come.'

Markeith Cummings (6'7''-G) added 17 points and six rebounds for the Owls (2-6), who faced a Top 10 team for the second time in school history and have lost four straight.

As Preston's first signee at Kennesaw State, Love has topped 20 points twice in his first eight games as a freshman, scoring 22 points and adding eight assists while playing 46 minutes in a double-overtime loss to South Carolina State.

'Before I even committed here, he just told me to be confident, be patient, and it was going to come,' Love said. 'I just feel comfortable. I know the recruits that are coming in next year, so I feel real comfortable. So we're going to good. It's headed in the right direction.'

Ricardo Ratliffe (6'8''-F) and Michael Dixon (6'1''-G-90) had 18 points each and Missouri shot 60 percent.

Marcus Denmon (6'3''-G-90) added 17 points and Phil Pressey had nine points and 10 assists for the Tigers (10-0), unbeaten after the first 10 games for the first time since an 11-0 start in 1991-92 after running its homecourt non-conference winning streak to 65. It was Pressey's third time in double-figure assists this season.

Frank Haith became the first Missouri coach to win his first 10 games since 1920-21. That's one more than predecessor Mike Anderson, now at Arkansas, who was 9-0 in 2006-07 before consecutive losses to Purdue and Illinois.

Ratliffe was 8 for 10 from the field and Denmon was 8 for 11.

Love had 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting in the first half to keep Kennesaw State somewhat close despite committing 10 turnovers. The Owls made five of their first seven shots and led 15-13 just over 5 1/2 minutes into the game.

Kennesaw State last led at 29-28 with about 7 minutes to go in the first half.

Missouri began the game as one of only nine unbeaten schools, with the first nine victories coming by an average of 25.6 points.

Matt Pressey had 11 points in the first half for Missouri, including a dunk off a turnover after a nice feed from English.

Kennesaw State has beaten one Division I school this season.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

No. 24 Murray State beats Lipscomb 89-65 - by Eurobasket News
Lipscomb coach Scott Sanderson had a big point to make after his team lost to No. 24 Murray State on Thursday night: 'They're as good as advertised.'

Ed Daniel and Ivan Aska both scored 16 points to help Murray State to the 89-65 victory -- the team's first game as a ranked team in 13 years.

'They're very good,' Sanderson said. 'When you turn the ball over as much as we did tonight it's not going to be much of a game and we had a lot of perimeter turnovers and you can't do that against anybody let alone Murray State who are extremely athletic and quick and can get the ball up and down the floor.'

The Racers, who forced Lipscomb into 23 turnovers, had 15 steals and 25 assists.

Malcolm Smith (6'5''-F) led the Bisons (6-6) with 13 points, while Robert Boyd (6'3''-G) added nine.

'Our coach told us this was probably going to be the best defensive-pressing team we're going to see all year,' Smith said. 'They beat Memphis the other day and that's a good high-pressure team too, so we knew they were going to come in and do that. We just have to handle the ball better than that -- we're a better team than that.'

Lipscomb, which is 0-4 on the road, faces an intensifying schedule as the Bisons head to Memphis on Monday to take on the team Murray State beat last Saturday to earn its national ranking.

'Any mistake you make offensively and defensively they are going to turn into baskets at the other end of the floor, they are extremely quick,' Sanderson said. 'They cause you to turn the ball over and make you pay when you do.'

Daniel said the Racers aren't 'too much hyped about being ranked.'

'We like being ranked but we're not trying to focus on that the whole time,' he said. 'We're still going to be the same team that plays hard and goes hard and play everybody like they're ranked No. 1.'

The Racers (10-0) have Steve Prohm off to the best start for a rookie coach in Murray State history.

Isaiah Canaan (6'0''-G) added 13 points for the Racers, who won their 14th straight non-conference game, a streak dating to February 2009.

'Coach Prohm has a great personality and he cares about our team more than anything,' Canaan said, 'and the same way he cares about us we care about him and we try to go out and play as hard as we can for him.'

Daniel scored the first seven points for Murray State who led by 16 points at halftime and pulled away throughout the second half.

'I thought we had some advantage in the post,' Prohm said. 'I said in practice yesterday this is one of the games we want to get the ball inside. We've been playing against 6-foot-9, 6-foot-10 guys for the last month and this was the first time I think we saw guys our size so we wanted to get the ball inside.'

Murray State had five players in double figures as Jewaun Long had 11 points and Stacy Wilson (6'3''-F) 10.

The bench provided 26 points and 15 rebounds for the Racers, who had 12 players on the 13-man roster see action.

As the clock dwindled down the Racers' lead kept going up with the largest margin 34 points on a dunk by Aska with just under 8 minutes remaining.

'We really talk about our game plan and our game plan is real simple,' Prohm said. 'We're not complicated, they just play hard, pressure the ball and deny the wings, fly around and play with great effort.'

With 7:22 to go, the Racers led 81-50 and Lipscomb, a team that took Ohio Valley Conference preseason favorite Tennessee Tech to overtime on Saturday, seemed to lose all fire.

'I'm very excited to get a good win tonight,' Prohm said. 'I've got a lot of respect for Lipscomb and Coach Sanderson, I think they have a really good basketball team. They were 3-1 against our league and really had a chance against Tech. They got up 24-11 against Tech and then Tech had to catch up and they were able to win the game.'

At just under 5 minutes on the clock, both Prohm and Canaan were yelling from the bench as Canaan aggressively interlocked his fingers, reminding the team to stay unified.

Prohm, yelling at the new players so hard his voice gave out, took a seat -- an unlikely scene for the rookie coach who stands or squats through games.

'I want those older guys to teach and coach those older guys,' Prohm said. 'The expectation shouldn't change if we're up 30 or 20 or if we have bench guys in -- you play the way we play on the defense end of the floor by playing hard.'

Fourteen of the Racers' 44 second-half points were dunks.

'It was very exciting,' Daniel said. 'Everybody was playing on the steals and leaking out and it was extremely fun.'

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Stats Leaders - NCAA1
Points Per Game
 Terrell STOGLIN
  Maryland
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 22
 1. Stoglin, Maryland22.0 
 2. Harris, Wake F.20.0 
 3. Howell, N.Caroli.19.5 
 4. McKie, Wake Forest19.0 
 5. Young, Clemson19.0 
 6. Zeller, N.Carolina18.0 
 7. Barnes, N.Carolina17.0 
 8. Dulkys, Florida St.16.0 
 9. Reed, Georgia Tech16.0 
 10. Henson, N.Carolina16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dorian FINNEY-SMITH
  Virgin.
  (203-F-)
  Avg: 16
 1. Finney-Smith, Virg.16.0 
 2. Smith, Clemson14.0 
 3. Shannon, Florida12.0 
 4. Howell, N.Caroli.11.5 
 5. Plumlee, Duke11.0 
 6. Desrosiers, Wake F.10.0 
 7. Henson, N.Carolina9.5 
 8. Painter, N.Caroli.8.5 
 9. Plumlee, Duke8.5 
 10. Pankey, Maryland8.0 
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. Udofia, Georgia6.0 
 5. Loucks, Florida St.6.0 
 6. Finney-Smith, Virg.5.0 
 7. Scott, Miami, FL5.0 
 8. Plumlee, Duke4.0 
 9. Royal, Georgia Tech4.0 
 10. Williams, N.Caro.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Tanner SMITH
  Clemson
  (195-G-90)
  Avg: 5
 1. Smith, Clemson5.0 
 2. Brown, N.Caroli.4.5 
 3. Raines, Virginia T.3.0 
 4. Faust, Maryland3.0 
 5. Swoope, Miami, FL3.0 
 6. McKie, Wake Forest3.0 
 7. Dulkys, Florida St.3.0 
 8. Rivers, Duke2.5 
 9. Strickland, N.Car.2.0 
 10. Garland, Virginia.2.0 
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. White, Florida St.2.0 
 6. Davila, Virginia T.2.0 
 7. Painter, N.Caroli.2.0 
 8. Hicks, Georgia Tech2.0 
 9. Howell, N.Caroli.2.0 
 10. Miller, Georgia T.2.0 


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


Nets waive F Travis Outlaw, sign Ime Udoka - by Eurobasket News
The New Jersey Nets have waived veteran forward Travis Outlaw (6'9''-F-84) and signed veteran free agent forward Ime Udoka (6'5''-F/G-77, agency: Priority Sports, college: Portland St.).

General manager Billy King announced Thursday that Outlaw was released and designated their amnesty player in a move that should take roughly $7 million off the Nets' salary cap. The moves came a day after the Nets' bid to acquire Dwight Howard of Orlando fell apart.

Outlaw was signed to a five-year, $35 million contract last summer and appeared in all 82 games, starting 55. He averaged 9.2 points and 4.0 rebounds. The 8-year veteran has played in 482 NBA regular season games with the Trail Blazers, Clippers and Nets, averaging 9.5 points and 3.5 rebounds.

Udoka is a journeyman who has played for five teams in his seven-year NBA career, with his most recent stop being a 20-game stint in San Antonio last season where he had 14 points and 19 rebounds in 130 minutes of action.

Udoka has career averages of 5.2 points and 2.9 rebounds in 316 games. The undrafted Portland State product also has played for the Lakers, Knicks, Trail Blazers and Kings.

New Jersey posted a 24-48 record last season.

Courtesy of www.nj.com

*****************************************************
  PAN ARAB GAMES   


The End of the First Stage - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Algeria - Egypt 81-73
Algeria continued their winning run at Pan Arab Games in Doha. They defeated Egypt to clinch 3-0 record in Group A. Egypt suffered the first defeat and slipped at 2-1 record. Mohamed Harath (196-F-90) nailed 23 points to pace the winners. Egypt got to the better start. They led by five points at the first break 18:13. Egypt maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They accumulated an 8-point buffer at halftime 48:40. But Algeria managed to revive the intrigue in the third period. They got within just a single point at the final intermission 54:55. Algeria went on a strong rally early in the final period to surge ahead. They held off all comeback efforts from Egypt and ran to the victory at the end. Mohamed Esseghir (208-C/F-85, college: S.Florida) nailed 18 points and collected 19 rebounds, while Mohamed Amine Belhoul added 12 points in the win. Amr El Gandy (202-F/C-88) answered with 16 points for Egypt. Assem Marei (206-C/F-92) produced 10 points in the loss.

Iraq - Sudan 89-60
Iraq celebrated the initial victory at Pan Arab Games tonight. The team won over Sudan 89:60 to finish third in the Group A. Sudan meanwhile lost the third straight game and finished on the fourth position. Sudan enjoyed 9:6 early in the game and won the first period 19:15. They also looked better in the second frame and reached 35:29 at the halftime. The third quarter however completely belonged to the Asian side. With 32-6 Iraq won the third frame and had 61:41 at the end of thirty minutes. Another productive last stanza gave them 29-point victory. Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-G/F-80) paced all the winners with 22 points and Ali Al-Juboori (170-PG-87) scored 20. Ali Ismael nailed 13, while Ahmed Al-Nasrawi (F/G-89) delivered 10. Kamal Elfadel (F/C) finished the game with 21 points in defeat and Alaa Eldin notched 19.

Group B
Jordan - Lebanon 83-72 OT
Jordan wins the overtime thriller over Lebanon to seal the Second Stage birth and remain alive for the top positions. Jordan grabbed the second place in Group B after 83:72 victory. Lebanon won the first period 15-12 and added 18-6 in the second frame to lead 33:18 at the halftime. Even with 15-point advantage they could not however win the game. Jordan needed 22-15 in the third quarter and 23-15 to tie the game after four quarters. In overtime Jordan produced 20-9 to seal the victory. Rasheim Wright (192-G-81, college: District of Col.) paced all the winners with 32 points and Zaghab Ali posted 17. Wesam Al-Sous (189-G-83) netted 13 points and Ayman Idais (205-C-78, agency: Court Side) notched 11. Fadi Khatib (199-F-79) collected massive 33 points and 15 rebounds in defeat and Abdel Nour Jean netted 15.

Morocco - Tunisia 53-64
Tunisia keep the perfect record at Pan Arab Games in Doha. The team won Group B with 3-0 record beating Morocco 64:53. Morocco started better and took 13-12 after the first 10 minutes in the court. They also dominated in the second quarter and after 12-8 increased to 25:20 at the halftime. Moreover Morocco won the third frame 18-16 but failed at the end of the game. Tunisia needed massive 28-10 in the last stanza to celebrate their third consecutive win and advanced to the Second Stage. Morocco meanwhile suffered their third straight loss. Amine Maghrebi (196-G/F-84) stepped up with 17 points and El Mabrouk Mourad netted 12. Youssef Gaddour (198-F-90) ended up with 10 points, while Knioua Nizar added 8. Rhalimi Reda delivered 12 points in the losing effort, whilst Anouar Grayssi (193-G-88) brought 11.

Group C
Kuwait - Palestine 94-86
Kuwait grabbed the second place in Group C of Pan Arab Games after the victory over Palestine. A final push in the last quarter allowed them to taste 94:86 win for 2-1 record. Kuwait only took 9-8 after the first 5 minutes of the game but then increased to 20:15 at the end of the first period. The board showed 43:37 at the halftime, while Palestine erupted for 12-2 run early in the fourth to reduce to 78:72. Kuwait however did not allow them to come closer and won the game. Nayef AlRashidi (185-SF-89) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Abdullah AlMutairi (190-F/G-87) delivered 15. Abdulaziz Mohammad (186-G/F-87) ended up with 14 points and three other teammates added 10 apiece. Jamal Abu-Shamala replied with 30 points in the losing effort and Nicola Fadayel nailed 18. Iyad Yousef notched 11, while Salim Sakakini (F-87) posted 9 for Palestine that lost the third straight game.

Qatar - Saudi Arabia 79-57
Qatar wins Group C with 3-0 record as they overcame Saudi Arabia in their last game of the group stage. The favorites grabbed 79:57 victory to remain undefeated. Qatar took the lead from the very beginning and reached 20-15 at the end of the first period. Moreover they created a 12-4 run early in the second for 32:19 lead. The advantage continued to grow in the entire game as Qatar dominated the court. Yasseen Ismail top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Ousseynou N'Diaye (196-G/F-85, agency: Court Side) posted 13. Erfan Ali ended up with 12, whilst Targuy Alban (197-F-84) netted 10. Fahad Belal (181-G-91) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort, whilst Ahmed Alhosawi (200-C/F-84) and Mohammed Almutairi added 12 apiece. Qatar scored 40 Points in the Paints versus 10 from the opponent. They had also the biggest lead of 30 points.



Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Algeria0-0
2. Jordan0-0
3. Qatar0-0
Group B
1. Egypt0-0
2. Kuwait0-0
3. Tunisia0-0
Group Places 7-12
1. Iraq0-0
2. S.Arabia0-0
3. Lebanon0-0
4. Morocco0-0
5. Palestine0-0
6. Sudan0-0


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


Unics beats Asseco Prokom 68-41 - by Eurobasket News
Unics - Asseco Prokom 68-41

Top 16 qualifier Unics didn't have any problems to blast Asseco Prokom at home on Thursday afternoon by 68-41. The defense of the hosts beat a record in the process as it kept Prokom to 11 points in the first half. The win allows already-qualified Unics to improve its record to 6-3 in Group D while Asseco Prokom who was eliminated before this game, drops to 1-8. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) led the way for the winners with 18 points, Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) added 12 and Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) posted 10. For Prokom, only Jerel Blassingame (175-G-81, college: UNLV) scored in double digits with his 10 points. *Courtesy of Euroleague

Unics: Henry Domercant 18, Terrell Lyday 12, Kelly McCarty 10
Asseco Prokom: Jerel Blassingame 10

Standings - DBE
PLK Standings
 1. Energa Czarni 11-3 
 2. PGE Turow 11-4 
 3. Trefl Sopot 10-4 
 4. Anwil 9-4 
 5. Kotwica 8-6 
 6. Zastal ZG 8-6 
 7. Siarka Jezioro 7-7 
 8. Slask Wroclaw 7-7 
 9. AZS Koszalin 6-8 
 10. PBG Basket 5-9 
 11. Polpharma 4-10 
 12. LKS Lodz 3-11 
 13. AZS PW 2-12 
Play in international cups:
 1. Asseco Prokom - 


DBE Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Corsley EDWARDS
  Anwil
  (205-C/F-79)
  Avg: 18
 1. Edwards, Anwil18.0 
 2. Hodge, Zastal ZG17.5 
 3. Koszarek, Trefl S.17.4 
 4. Kulig, PBG Basket16.9 
 5. Archibeque, LKS L.16.7 
 6. Lawal, Zastal ZG16.5 
 7. Miller, Siarka J.16.0 
 8. Reese, AZS Koszal.15.9 
 9. Corbett, Siarka J.15.7 
 10. Weeden, Polpharma15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gani LAWAL
  Zastal ZG
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Lawal, Zastal ZG11.7 
 2. Harris, Kotwica11.4 
 3. Archibeque, LKS L.10.2 
 4. Burgess, Trefl S.9.5 
 5. Edwards, Anwil7.9 
 6. Bigus, AZS Koszalin7.6 
 7. Doaks, Siarka J.6.8 
 8. Turek, Trefl Sopot6.7 
 9. Morrison, Energa C.6.4 
 10. Mladenovic, Slask6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Robert SKIBNIEWSKI
  Slask W.
  (182-G-83)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Skibniewski, Slask6.8 
 2. Hodge, Zastal ZG6.5 
 3. Szubarga, Anwil5.7 
 4. Koszarek, Trefl S.5.6 
 5. Wilczek, AZS P.5.5 
 6. Miller, Siarka J.5.3 
 7. Sapp, Kotwica5.2 
 8. Moore, PGE Turow5.1 
 9. Micic, PBG Basket5.0 
 10. Burrell, Energa C.4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Szubarga, Anwil2.0 
 2. Cesnauskis, Energa1.7 
 3. Skibniewski, Slask1.6 
 4. Koszarek, Trefl S.1.6 
 5. Hodge, Zastal ZG1.4 
 6. Hinson, Energa C.1.4 
 7. Edwards, Anwil1.4 
 8. Moore, PGE Turow1.2 
 9. Wisniewski, Trefl1.2 
 10. Pamula, AZS P.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Chris BURGESS
  Trefl S.
  (209-C-79)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Burgess, Trefl S.1.7 
 2. Lawal, Zastal ZG1.4 
 3. Morrison, Energa C.1.4 
 4. Harris, Kotwica1.4 
 5. Mladenovic, Slask1.3 
 6. Barycz, Siarka J.1.3 
 7. Lauderdale, PGE T.1.2 
 8. Kesicki, Kotwica1.1 
 9. Edwards, Anwil0.9 
 10. Djuric, Kotwica0.8 


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


Unics beats Asseco Prokom 68-41 - by Eurobasket News
Unics - Asseco Prokom 68-41

Top 16 qualifier Unics didn't have any problems to blast Asseco Prokom at home on Thursday afternoon by 68-41. The defense of the hosts beat a record in the process as it kept Prokom to 11 points in the first half. The win allows already-qualified Unics to improve its record to 6-3 in Group D while Asseco Prokom who was eliminated before this game, drops to 1-8. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) led the way for the winners with 18 points, Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) added 12 and Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) posted 10. For Prokom, only Jerel Blassingame (175-G-81, college: UNLV) scored in double digits with his 10 points. *Courtesy of Euroleague

Unics: Henry Domercant 18, Terrell Lyday 12, Kelly McCarty 10
Asseco Prokom: Jerel Blassingame 10

Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  Spartak-.
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 20.5
 1. Thomas, Spartak-.20.5 
 2. Jefferson, Triumph19.2 
 3. Ignerski, N.Nov.17.5 
 4. Mozgov, Khimky16.2 
 5. Beverley, Spart.16.0 
 6. Domercant, Unics14.5 
 7. Hayes, Krasnie Kri.14.4 
 8. McKee, Triumph14.4 
 9. Victor, Spartak-.13.8 
 10. Halperin, Spart.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cuthbert VICTOR
  Spartak-.
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 9
 1. Victor, Spartak-.9.0 
 2. Landry, Triumph8.6 
 3. McCarty, Unics7.3 
 4. Monya, Khimky7.2 
 5. Savenkov, Spartak.7.0 
 6. Beverley, Spart.6.6 
 7. Khryapa, CSKA6.3 
 8. Baxter, Enisey6.2 
 9. Likholitov, Krasni.6.2 
 10. Massey, Lokomotiv5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Yotam HALPERIN
  Spart.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 6
 1. Halperin, Spart.6.0 
 2. Miles, Krasnie Kri.5.8 
 3. McKee, Triumph4.6 
 4. Beverley, Spart.4.6 
 5. Thomas, Spartak-.4.5 
 6. Bremer, N.Novgorod4.2 
 7. Teodosic, CSKA4.0 
 8. Bykov, Lokomotiv4.0 
 9. Nissim, Enisey3.8 
 10. Samoylenko, Unics3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Cuthbert VICTOR
  Spartak-.
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 3
 1. Victor, Spartak-.3.0 
 2. Jefferson, Triumph2.8 
 3. Thomas, Spartak-.2.5 
 4. Halperin, Spart.2.4 
 5. Beverley, Spart.2.4 
 6. Massey, Lokomotiv2.3 
 7. Chalmers, Lokom.2.2 
 8. Miles, Krasnie Kri.2.0 
 9. Blakney, Lokomotiv2.0 
 10. Planinic, Khimky2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Timofey MOZGOV
  Khimky
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Mozgov, Khimky1.6 
 2. Planinic, Khimky1.3 
 3. Traore, Lokomotiv1.2 
 4. Pushkov, Khimky1.0 
 5. Nesterov, Spartak-.1.0 
 6. Kirilenko, CSKA1.0 
 7. Balashov, Krasni.1.0 
 8. Jefferson, Triumph1.0 
 9. McCarty, Unics1.0 
 10. Shved, CSKA0.8 


Lokomotiv and Unics tasted the latest victories - by Eurobasket News
Unics and Lokomotiv tasted the latest victories in VTB League over their opponents.
Tonight Lokomotiv edged Azovmash 84:76. The game in Kuban was also quite interesting. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84:76. The best player for the winners was Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) who scored 23 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Jeremiah Massey chipped in 25 points and 4 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was Daniel Ewing (191-G-83, agency: Alti Sport, college: Duke) who recorded 17 points and 5 rebounds and Ricky Minard (196-F/G-82, college: Morehead St.) added 18 points respectively.
Earlier Unics Kazan improved to 7-1 record after 73:64 road win on Monday over Kalev/Cramo. The guests trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 73-64. Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) scored 11 points and 6 assists, while Zakhar Pashutin (196-G-74) chipped in 10 points and 6 rebounds.


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


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


Marko Popovic signs in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Marko Popovic (193-G-84) will continue his career in Spain. The Serbian point guard penned a deal with UCAM Murcia. Popovic arrives to Murcia from Sloga, where he started this season. He appeared 12 times in A League averaging 21.1 points and 6 assists. Marko Popovic spent last season with Vojvodina Novi Sad. He joined them in February registering 12.6 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 4.9 apg. He already played for the same club in 2008/09. In the meantime, Popovic split one season between Greek Olimpia Larissa and Napredak Rubin. Marko Popovic played for Sloga in 2007/08 as well. He had 15.8 ppg and 4.5 apg at that time.

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


1B Stats Leaders
D2 Standings
 1. Grosuplje 10-2 
 2. Triglav Strazisce 9-3 
 3. Postojna 8-3 
 4. Splosna plovba 8-4 
 5. Branik 7-4 
 6. Sencur CP 7-4 
 7. Radenska 6-6 
 8. Konjice 5-7 
 9. Hrastnik 4-7 
 10. Terme Olimia 4-7 
 11. Medvode 3-8 
 12. Jance Prit 2-9 
 13. Litija 2-9 


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


Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Panic, Zlatorog17.7 
 2. Rizvic, Parklji16.9 
 3. Maric, Sentjur16.6 
 4. Prepelic, Helios16.2 
 5. Nelson, Sentjur15.8 
 6. Drzic, Sentjur14.6 
 7. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.14.6 
 8. Mahkovic, LTHcas.14.3 
 9. Djugum, Geoplin13.9 
 10. Rembert, Sentjur13.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ante DJUGUM
  Geoplin .
  (211-C-88)
  Avg: 9
 1. Djugum, Geoplin9.0 
 2. Miljkovic, Rogaska8.8 
 3. Rizvic, Parklji8.7 
 4. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.8.7 
 5. Nelson, Sentjur6.8 
 6. Nuhanovic, Elektra6.7 
 7. Pasalic, Helios6.6 
 8. Maric, Sentjur6.4 
 9. Soldo, LTHcast6.1 
 10. Mucic, Maribor6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Luka RUPNIK
  Geoplin .
  (184-PG-93)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Rupnik, Geoplin6.1 
 2. Rembert, Sentjur5.2 
 3. Vujasinovic, Zlato.4.7 
 4. Jovanovic, Maribo.4.2 
 5. Hohler, Polzela3.9 
 6. Tomic, Rogaska3.8 
 7. Prepelic, Helios3.4 
 8. Gay, Helios3.3 
 9. Fon, Geoplin Slovan3.3 
 10. Panic, Zlatorog3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Nejc KOBAL
  Parklji
  (183-PG-91)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Kobal, Parklji2.9 
 2. Mezek, LTHcast2.9 
 3. Fon, Geoplin Slovan2.4 
 4. Vujasinovic, Zlato.2.1 
 5. Vasl, Polzela1.9 
 6. Lelic, Elektra1.9 
 7. Lorbek, Parklji1.7 
 8. Panic, Zlatorog1.7 
 9. Maric, Sentjur1.6 
 10. Rembert, Sentjur1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Travis NELSON
  Sentjur
  (211-C-87)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Nelson, Sentjur1.7 
 2. Nuhanovic, Elektra1.7 
 3. Sviridov, Polzela1.3 
 4. Omic, Zlatorog1.1 
 5. Djugum, Geoplin1.0 
 6. Sebic, Sentjur1.0 
 7. Guna, Elektra1.0 
 8. Primorac, Sentjur0.8 
 9. Hannibal, Polzela0.8 
 10. Cresnar, Helios0.7 


Stats Leaders - 1B
Points Per Game
 Igor SPESIC
  Radenska
  (204-F/C-83)
  Avg: 19.8
 1. Spesic, Radenska19.8 
 2. Mlakar, Jance Prit18.0 
 3. Primc, Postojna17.8 
 4. Jereb, Konjice17.6 
 5. Erzen, Sencur CP17.4 
 6. Djurkovic, Splosn.17.3 
 7. Remus, Branik17.2 
 8. Sivka, Konjice17.2 
 9. Moro, Splosna17.2 
 10. Abramovic, Terme17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Milan KLEPO
  Postojna
  (211-C-80)
  Avg: 9
 1. Klepo, Postojna9.0 
 2. Kavgic, Splosna8.7 
 3. Spesic, Radenska8.5 
 4. Tusek, Hrastnik8.1 
 5. Erzen, Sencur CP7.6 
 6. Sivka, Konjice6.9 
 7. Skornik, Konjice6.8 
 8. Korosec, Trigla.6.4 
 9. Globovnik, Terme O.6.3 
 10. Trampus, Grosuplje6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Rok PERKO
  Splosna .
  (179-G-87)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Perko, Splosna5.8 
 2. Macek, Terme Olimia4.9 
 3. Jereb, Konjice4.6 
 4. Ovnik, Hrastnik4.3 
 5. Suran, Radenska3.9 
 6. Jersin, Trigla.3.9 
 7. Brolih, Branik3.9 
 8. Blazevic, Sencur CP3.6 
 9. Mlakar, Jance Prit3.5 
 10. Panic, Litija3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Dragan PUSIC
  Sencur CP
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Pusic, Sencur CP2.4 
 2. Jereb, Konjice2.1 
 3. Spesic, Radenska1.9 
 4. Ovnik, Hrastnik1.9 
 5. Jersin, Trigla.1.9 
 6. Ribic, Konjice1.7 
 7. Korosec, Trigla.1.7 
 8. Zupanc, Litija1.7 
 9. Percel, Hrastnik1.6 
 10. Kristo, Sencur CP1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Matija TRAMPUS
  Grosuplje
  (203-C-89)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Trampus, Grosuplje1.5 
 2. Kunc, Grosuplje1.4 
 3. Klepo, Postojna1.1 
 4. Lobe, Grosuplje1.0 
 5. Barovic, Branik0.9 
 6. Novak, Radenska0.8 
 7. Dolinar, Medvode0.8 
 8. Spesic, Radenska0.7 
 9. Muha, Postojna0.6 
 10. Globovnik, Terme0.5 


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


KBL Round 28 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Ninth-ranked Daegu Orions (5-21) were very close to win a game against second ranked Anyang KGC (19-7) on Friday. Anyang KGC managed to secure only four-point victory 98-94. However their fans expected much easier game. Worth to mention a great performance of Alan Wiggins who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 9 rebounds. Anyang KGC have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 19-7 record having four points less than leader Dongbu Promy. Daegu Orions at the other side keep the ninth place with 21 games lost. Anyang KGC will face Mobis Phoebus (#7) in Ulsan in the next round where they are favorite. Daegu Orions will play at home against ET Land Elephants in Inchon.

The most impressive performance of 28th round was 37 points (!!!), 16 rebounds and 6 assists by Aaron Haynes of LG Sakers.


Mobis Phoebus - Dongbu Promy 63-79

No shocking result in a game when first ranked Dongbu Promy (22-5) beat 6th ranked Mobis Phoebus (11-15) in Ulsan 79-63 on Friday. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-63. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Ho-Young Yoon (198-84) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 6 rebounds. American power forward Rodrique Benson (207-84, college: California) contributed with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Four Dongbu Promy players scored in double figures. The former international guard Dong-Geun Yang (181-81) replied with 18 points and 7 assists and American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) added 14 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Mobis Phoebus. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Dongbu Promy maintains first position with 22-5 record. Defending champion Mobis Phoebus keep the sixth place with 15 games lost. Dongbu Promy will face Sonic Boom KT (#3) in Busan in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Mobis Phoebus will play at home against the league's second-placed Anyang KGC.
Top scorers:
Dongbu Promy: H.Yoon 20+6reb+3ast, R.Benson 17+10reb+1ast, J.Ahn 12+1reb+1ast, J.Hwang 10+2reb+3ast, Y.Choi 6+1reb, M.Suk 4+1reb
Mobis Phoebus: D.Yang 18+4reb+7ast, T.Leather 14+10reb+1ast, J.Park 13+2reb, D.Kim 9+2ast, G.Park 3+1reb+1ast, D.Ryang Kim 2+7reb
gschID: 145740


Samsung Th. - LG Sakers 71-88

Rather expected game when 10th ranked Samsung Thunders (4-22) lost to eighth ranked LG Sakers (11-15) in Seoul 71-88 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by LG Sakers. Samsung Thunders was better in third quarter 15-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LG Sakers dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Samsung Thunders' 44. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!), 16 rebounds and 6 assists (on 16-of-18 shooting from the field). Guard Hyun-Soo Byun (185-86) contributed with 19 points and 8 assists for the winners. Four LG Sakers players scored in double figures. American power forward Ira Clark (203-75, college: Texas) replied with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 12 rebounds and international power forward Eric Sandrin (206-78, college: Seattle Pacific) added 22 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Samsung Thunders. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. LG Sakers moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Mobis Phoebus and SK Knights. Samsung Thunders lost fourth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 22 lost