Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 12/2/2011

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Men News

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ABA

Standings

ABA Standings

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

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ARGENTINA

Atenas land Sam Clancy and Delonte Holland - by Eurobasket News
Atenas de Cordoba bolstered their roster with addition of two import players. They agreed on terms of contract with Sam Clancy (202-C/F-80, college: USC) and Delonte Holland (201-F-82, college: De Paul).
Sam Clancy started the season with the Southeast Hoopers in the UBA. Last season the centre spent in Israel. He averaged 12.9 points and 5.9 rebounds per EuroCup game with Hapoel Jerusalem. In Israeli League his stats read 7.7 points, 5.3 boards and 1.1 assists per appearance. Sam Clancy used to play in Puerto Rico, Russia, France, South Korea, Spain, Greece, CBA, Venezuela and NBDA. The centre was named All-CBA Player of the Year in 2005.
Delonte Holland started the season in Argentina. He appeared in just one game for Club 9 before getting cut from the roster. Last season Delonte Holland started the season in San Severo in Italy. The forward posted 14.3 points, 3.5 boards and 1.8 steals per game in LegaDue. Later he moved to Ukraine to join DniproAzot. His stats read 18.8 points, 5.3 boards and 2.0 steals per appearance. The forward had stints in Serbia, Italy, D-League and France during his career. Delonte Holland was named Eurobasket.com All-Serbia and Montenegro League Import Player of the Year in 2005.

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AUSTRALIA

Ben Madgen claims NBL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Former international swingman Ben Madgen (193-G/F-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for Kings and that's him to receive a Australiabasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8.
The 26-year old swingman had the game-high 26 points adding four rebounds and four assists for Kings in his team's victory, helping them to beat Tigers (#3, 6-4) 89-80. Kings maintains the 6th position in NBL. Kings is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 4-6 record. In the team's last game Madgen had a remarkable 60.0% from 2-point range. It was one of impressive evenings for him as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Ben Madgen averages this season 11.7ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was another Kings' star - young American power forward Jerai Grant (203-F/C-89). Grant impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Kings lost that game 92-103 to the higher-ranked Wildcats (#1, 7-3). Kings managed to keep the same 6th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-6 record. Grant is a newcomer at Kings and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was former international Cameron Tragardh (209-C/F-83) of Tigers (#3). Tragardh scored 28 points and grabbed five rebounds. Despite Tragardh's great performance Tigers lost 80-89 to the lower-ranked Kings (#6, 4-6). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Tigers needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 6 victories and 4 lost games. Tragardh has a great season in Australia. After 10 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.8ppg (best scorer).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Daniel Johnson (212-C-88) of 36ers - 19 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Diamon Simpson (201-F-87) of 36ers - 14 points and 13 rebounds
6. Cedric Jackson (191-G-86) of Breakers - 11 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists
7. Mark Worthington (202-F-83) of Blaze - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Anatoly Bose (200-G/F-88) of Kings - 22 points and 7 rebounds
9. Jerai Grant (203-F/C-89) of Kings - 19 points and 5 rebounds
10. Peter Crawford (193-G/F-79) of Crocodiles - 17 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists

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

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AUSTRIA

Traiskirchen Lions bring back reigning ABL MVP Fabricio Vay - by Stefan Prager
The Traiskirchen Lions bring back the reigning ABL MVP Fabricio Vay (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances). After the departure of the teams topscorer Tiras Wade the Lions were forced to add some firepower to their roster. Vay was voted MVP last season and was hoping to advance to a better league in summer. Vay stayed with the Lions as a practice player and is expected to have his debut on Saturday when the Lions play the Gussing Knights on the road. The 6'9'' native of Argentina has an opt out clause in case of a better offer. In this case Croatian youngster Alex Percan is expcted to advance to the Lions roster as their fifth import player. The days of Adam Leonard who is also a practice player in Traiskirchen are expected to be over.

UBC St. Poelten adds Nenad Milosevic - by Stefan Prager
The UBC St. Poelten reacted on the injury of their playmaker Roy Booker and signed Nenad Milosevic (190-G-83). The Serbian guard started his season with Inter Bratislava where he replaced an injured player as well. The experienced 28 year old Milosevic almost spent his entire career in Slovakia. He also played in Greece in 2006/07. Milosevic won the Slovakian Cup in 2005 & 2010, was an All Star in 2009 and won the championshiph in 2010 while playing for Pezinok. As the UBC is expecting Roy Booker to return by the end of January and the UBC is forcing young Austrians to get more minutes forward Ivan Kuprijanov had to leave the club.

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BALKAN LEAGUE

Round 4: Galil Gilboa hands first loss to undefeated Rilski Sportist - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (3-1) on the court of top-ranked Israeli Galil Gilboa on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Galil Gilboa 76-67. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 3-0 record before this meeting. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 43-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Galil Gilboa dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Rilski Sportist's 34. They outrebounded Rilski Sportist 37-20 including 25 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Joseph Jones (204-86, college: Texas A&M) who helped to win the game recording 32 points (on 14-of-15 shooting from the field). The other American import Romeo Travis (200-84, college: Akron) contributed with 14 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 10 points and 7 assists for Rilski Sportist. Galil Gilboa have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Levski Sofia. Rilski Sportist at the other side keeps the second place with one game lost. They share the position with Hapoel T-A and Feni Indistrija. Galil Gilboa is looking forward to face Torus Skopje (#4) at home in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against OKK Beograd and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Important game to mention about took place in Sofia. Top-ranked Bulgarian Levski Sofia (4-0) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th ranked Serbian Napredak Rubin (1-3) 74-72 on Wednesday evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Hall (185-85, college: Colorado) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds and Hrisimir Dimitrov who added 16 points during the contest. At the losing side power forward Aco Mandic (204-84) responded with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Levski Sofia have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Galil Gilboa. Napredak Rubin at the other side keeps the fourth place with three games lost. They share the position with Timisoara and Ulcinj. Levski Sofia will play against Feni Indistrija (#3) in Kavadarci in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Napredak Rubin will play at home against Ulcinj in Ulcijn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (3-1) which played road game in Skopje against 4th ranked FYR Macedonian Torus Skopje (1-2). Second ranked Rilski Sportist managed to get a 5-point victory 85-80. The winners were led by Branko Mirkovic who scored that evening 19 points and 6 assists. Even 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists by Dimitar Karadzovski did not help to save the game for Torus Skopje. Rilski Sportist maintains second position with 3-1 record behind leader Levski Sofia, which they share with Hapoel T-A and Feni Indistrija. Loser Torus Skopje keeps the fourth place with two games lost. Rilski Sportist will meet OKK Beograd (#6) on the road in the next round. Torus Skopje will play against the league's leader Galil Gilboa.
Balkan League top team - Israeli Galil Gilboa (4-0) added another victory to their record. This time they beat fifth ranked Romanian Timisoara (1-3) 83-76. Ido Kozikaro fired 17 points and 6 rebounds (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!) for the winners. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Galil Gilboa have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Levski Sofia. Timisoara at the other side dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Galil Gilboa's next round opponent will be Torus Skopje (#4) at home. Timisoara will play against Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Balkan League top team - Israeli Hapoel Tel-Aviv (3-1) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat fifth ranked Montenegrin Ulcinj (1-3) 75-68. It was a very good performance for Matan Naor who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 5 rebounds. Hapoel Tel-Aviv have a solid three-game winning streak. Despite that victory Hapoel Tel-Aviv went down to second position due to points difference, which they share with Feni Indistrija and Rilski Sportist. Loser Ulcinj dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will face Zrinjski HT (#6) in Mostar in the next round. Ulcinj will play on the road against Napredak Rubin in Krusevac and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 4 Mornar Bar beat OKK Beograd on the road 89-82. Winless Zrinjski HT lost to FYR Macedonian defending champion Feni Indistrija on its own court 68-76.

Group A

Torus Skopje - Rilski Sportist 80-85

An interesting game for Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (3-1) which played road game in Skopje against 4th ranked FYR Macedonian Torus Skopje (1-2). Second ranked Rilski Sportist managed to get a 5-point victory 85-80. The guests trailed by 14 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 5 points. Strangely Torus Skopje outrebounded Rilski Sportist 42-29 including 29 on the defensive glass. The winners were led by Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who scored that evening 19 points and 6 assists and Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-83) supported him with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Four Rilski Sportist players scored in double figures. Even 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists by FYR Macedonian-Bulgarian guard Dimitar Karadzovski (190-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) did not help to save the game for Torus Skopje. American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-88, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) added 17 points and 12 rebounds for lost side. Rilski Sportist maintains second position with 3-1 record behind leader Levski Sofia, which they share with Hapoel T-A and Feni Indistrija. Loser Torus Skopje keeps the fourth place with two games lost. Rilski Sportist will meet OKK Beograd (#6) on the road in the next round. Torus Skopje will play against the league's leader Galil Gilboa.
Top scorers:
Torus Skopje: D.Karadzovski 20+7reb+4ast, J.Reynolds 17+12reb, P.Blazevski 13+3reb+2ast, G.Markovski 9+4reb+2ast, B.Krstevski 7+8reb, N.Karakolev 6+4reb+1ast
Rilski Sportist: B.Mirkovic 19+4reb+6ast, F.Vukosavljevic 18+7reb, M.Marinov 17+6reb+1ast, A.Bilobrk 15+4reb+1ast, S.Vaklinov 9+1reb, B.Boev 5+2reb+2ast

Timisoara - Galil Gilboa 76-83

Balkan League top team - Israeli Galil Gilboa (4-0) added another victory to their record. This time they beat fifth ranked Romanian Timisoara (1-3) 83-76. The guests were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 18-14 Timisoara's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 83-76 at the end of the game. Galil Gilboa dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Timisoara's 34. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. Center Ido Kozikaro (203-78) fired 17 points and 6 rebounds (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!) for the winners. American Romeo Travis (200-84, college: Akron) chipped in 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Croatian swingman Ivan Siriscevic (198-87) produced 24 points and 6 rebounds and American forward Dominique Archie (200-87, college: S.Carolina) added 16 points and 11 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five Galil Gilboa and four Timisoara players scored in double figures. Galil Gilboa have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Levski Sofia. Timisoara at the other side dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Galil Gilboa's next round opponent will be Torus Skopje (#4) at home. Timisoara will play against Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Timisoara: I.Siriscevic 24+6reb, D.Archie 16+11reb+1ast, B.Popescu 14+5reb+2ast, Z.Jovanovic 10+2reb+1ast, D.Paltinisanu 6+4reb+1ast, B.Cuic 3+3reb+6ast
Galil Gilboa: I.Kozikaro 17+6reb, J.Jones 12+1reb+1ast, R.Travis 12+6reb+4ast, C.Allen 11+1reb+5ast, C.Thomas 10+5reb+4ast, A.Gordon 9

OKK Beograd - Mornar Bar 82-89

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Montenegrin Mornar Bar (2-2) beat on the road bottom-ranked Serbian OKK Beograd (0-3) 89-82 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 57-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Mornar Bar made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. OKK Beograd was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for Serbian Ivan Jelenic (190-85, agency: BeoExcell) who helped to win the game recording 28 points. Jamaican-American point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 19 points for the winners. Scott is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Stanoje Knezevic (202-89) replied with 19 points and 7 rebounds and center Nenad Misanovic (217-84) added 20 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for OKK Beograd. Four OKK Beograd players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Mornar Bar moved-up to third place. Loser OKK Beograd still closes the standings with three games lost. Mornar Bar will face Timisoara (#5) at home in the next round. OKK Beograd will play against the league's second-placed Rilski Sportist in Samokov and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
OKK Beograd: N.Misanovic 20+5reb, S.Knezevic 19+7reb, D.Mitrovic 11+5reb+6ast, J.Koprivica 10+2reb+2ast, M.Kovac 6+2reb+2ast, A.Djurica 6+1reb
Mornar Bar: I.Jelenic 28+2reb+3ast, A.Scott 19+2reb, F.Barovic 11+7reb+1ast, M.Sarajlija 8+1reb+1ast, N.Ivanovic 8+1reb, L.Radosavljevic 7+6reb

Group B

Hapoel T-A - Ulcinj 75-68

Balkan League top team - Israeli Hapoel Tel-Aviv (3-1) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat fifth ranked Montenegrin Ulcinj (1-3) 75-68. Ulcinj trailed by 17 points after 3 quarters before a 23-13 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 68-75 at the end of the game. Hapoel Tel-Aviv dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Ulcinj's 30. It was a very good performance for Matan Naor (195-80) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Aviram Zelkovits (193-89) contributed with 10 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Serbian guard Marko Milatovic (194-88) replied with 22 points and 6 rebounds and forward Boban Medenica (204-87, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Ulcinj. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Hapoel Tel-Aviv have a solid three-game winning streak. Despite that victory Hapoel Tel-Aviv went down to second position due to points difference, which they share with Feni Indistrija and Rilski Sportist. Loser Ulcinj dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Hapoel Tel-Aviv will face Zrinjski HT (#6) in Mostar in the next round. Ulcinj will play on the road against Napredak Rubin in Krusevac and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ulcinj: M.Milatovic 22+6reb+3ast, B.Medenica 16+8reb+2ast, D.Marojevic 13+5reb, M.Djurisic 11+9reb+3ast, M.Latkovic 2+2reb, V.Lalovic 2+5reb
Hapoel T-A: M.Naor 18+5reb, C.Carr 10+2reb+5ast, J.Skjoldebrand 10+5reb+2ast, A.Zelkovits 10+7reb+1ast, G.Eytan 9+2reb+1ast, D.Stitt 8+3reb+2ast

Zrinjski HT - Feni Indistrija 68-76

Rather expected game when bottom-ranked Bosnian Zrinjski HT (0-4) lost to third ranked FYR Macedonian Feni Indistrija (3-1) in Mostar 68-76 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 44-31 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Quite impressive performance for American swingman Jarrid Frye (194-85, college: Sacred Heart) who helped to win the game recording 17 points. Bulgarian swingman Ivan Lilov (196-88) contributed with 14 points for the winners. American forward Marcel Jones (203-85, college: Oregon St., agency: David Lee services) replied with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 16 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and Luka Klarica (192-89) added 17 points and 5 assists in the effort for Zrinjski HT. Four Zrinjski HT players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Defending FYR Macedonian champion moved-up to second place, which they share with Hapoel T-A and Rilski Sportist. Loser Zrinjski HT still closes the standings with four games lost. Feni Indistrija will face league's leader Levski Sofia on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Zrinjski HT will play against the league's second-placed Hapoel Tel-Aviv (#2) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Zrinjski HT: L.Klarica 17+5ast, M.Jones 15+16reb, D.Kapelan 14+5reb+3ast, A.Radulovic 12+9reb, M.Han 5+2reb+1ast, A.Avdibegovic 3+1reb+5ast
Feni Indistrija: J.Frye 17+3reb+1ast, I.Lilov 14+3reb+1ast, G.Samardziev 9+1reb+2ast, V.Brckov 8+2reb, S.Ocokoljic 8+2reb+1ast, K.Nikolovski 6+7reb+1ast

Levski Sofia - Napredak 74-72

Important game to mention about took place in Sofia. Top-ranked Bulgarian Levski Sofia (4-0) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th ranked Serbian Napredak Rubin (1-3) 74-72 on Wednesday evening. Napredak Rubin cut a 14-point halftime deficit to two at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Hall (185-85, college: Colorado) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds and swingman Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-74) who added 16 points during the contest. At the losing side power forward Aco Mandic (204-84) responded with 24 points and 7 rebounds and Slaven Cupkovic (205-88) scored 19 points and 9 rebounds. Levski Sofia have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Galil Gilboa. Napredak Rubin at the other side keeps the fourth place with three games lost. They share the position with Timisoara and Ulcinj. Levski Sofia will play against Feni Indistrija (#3) in Kavadarci in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Napredak Rubin will play at home against Ulcinj in Ulcijn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Napredak: A.Mandic 24+7reb, S.Cupkovic 19+9reb+1ast, M.Radonjic 11+5reb+6ast, M.Puzic 6+4reb+2ast, V.Radmanovac 5+10reb+3ast, A.Lekic 5+3ast
Levski Sofia: M.Hall 22+7reb+2ast, H.Dimitrov 16+4reb+3ast, Z.Georgiev 15+1reb+3ast, D.Anguelov 7+2reb+1ast, J.Bozov 5+3reb+3ast, P.Ivanov 5+3reb+3ast

Round 1

Galil Gilboa - Rilski Sportist 76-67

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated Bulgarian Rilski Sportist (3-1) on the court of top-ranked Israeli Galil Gilboa on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Galil Gilboa 76-67. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 3-0 record before this meeting. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 43-32 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Galil Gilboa dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Rilski Sportist's 34. They outrebounded Rilski Sportist 37-20 including 25 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Joseph Jones (204-86, college: Texas A&M) who helped to win the game recording 32 points (on 14-of-15 shooting from the field). The other American import Romeo Travis (200-84, college: Akron) contributed with 14 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) replied with 10 points and 7 assists and Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-83) added 16 points (made all of his eight free throws) in the effort for Rilski Sportist. Galil Gilboa have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Levski Sofia. Rilski Sportist at the other side keeps the second place with one game lost. They share the position with Hapoel T-A and Feni Indistrija. Galil Gilboa is looking forward to face Torus Skopje (#4) at home in the next round. Rilski Sportist will play against OKK Beograd and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Rilski Sportist: F.Vukosavljevic 16+2reb+1ast, A.Velikov 13+3reb+1ast, B.Mirkovic 10+2reb+7ast, M.Marinov 8+2reb+2ast, A.Bilobrk 6+2reb+2ast, G.Jovanovic 4+4reb
Galil Gilboa: J.Jones 32+4reb+2ast, R.Travis 14+9reb+2ast, C.Thomas 8+3reb+9ast, N.Tishman 7+1reb+3ast, A.Gordon 6+7reb+2ast, J.Martin 5+6reb+1ast

Jones' 32-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old Joseph Jones (204-C/F-86) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Galil Gilboa and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4.
He had the game-high 32 points adding four rebounds and two assists for Galil Gilboa in his team's victory, helping them to beat Rilski Sportist (#2, 3-1) 76-67. It allowed Galil Gilboa to consolidate first place in the Round 1. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. The season is still on an early stage, but Galil Gilboa already had a very good start winning all 4 without losing a single one. Jones turned to be Galil Gilboa's top player in his first season with the team. Texas A&M University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Jones. Jones is in league's top in points (4th best: 18.7ppg) and averages solid 83.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Marcel Jones (203-F-85, agency: David Lee services) of Zrinjski HT. He is American forward in his first season at Zrinjski HT. In the last game Jones recorded impressive double-double of 15 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Zrinjski HT lost that game 68-76 to the higher-ranked Feni Indistrija (#3, 3-1). Zrinjski HT managed to keep the same 6th spot in group B. 4 lost games are too many considering they did not win any game. Jones is a newcomer at Zrinjski HT and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 12.0ppg (#4). He also registered 12.5 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Marcus Hall (185-G-85) of league's leader Levski Sofia. Hall scored 22 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was a key player of Levski Sofia, leading his team to a 74-72 win against #4 ranked Napredak in a game of the week. Levski Sofia started extremely well this year. They recorded 4 victories without losing a single game in group B. Hall turns to be one of the very best players in the league while he is also a leader of the top team having his eyes on the championship title. Hall has a great season in Balkan League. After only 2 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 5.0apg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88) of Torus Skopje - 17 points and 12 rebounds
5. Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82) of Rilski Sportist - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Romeo Travis (200-PF-84) of Galil Gilboa - 14 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Aco Mandic (204-C/F-84) of Napredak - 24 points and 7 rebounds
8. Ivan Jelenic (190-SG-85) of Mornar Bar - 28 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Stanoje Knezevic (202-PF-89) of OKK Beograd - 19 points and 7 rebounds
10. Ido Kozikaro (203-C-78) of Galil Gilboa - 17 points and 6 rebounds

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

Standings

Balkan League Standings

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

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

BALTIC LEAGUE

Round 8: Siauliai keeps a leadership position in their group - by Eurobasket News
There were many interesting games last round. The round ended with few extra overtimes, derby games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Lithuanian Siauliai as it allowed them to take a leadership position in Elite. Siauliai defeated 5th ranked Russian Triumph Lyubertsy at home 101-94. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Triumph Lyubertsy. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Triumph Lyubertsy won third quarter 22-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Siauliai looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Triumph Lyubertsy helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American-Samoan point guard Rashaun Broadus (183-84, college: BYU) who scored 24 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. American power forward Denzel Bowles (208-89, college: JMU) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. Canadian power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona) produced 19 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists for the guests. Triumph Lyubertsy's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Undefeated Siauliai (7-0) have an impressive seven-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Triumph Lyubertsy at the other side keeps the fifth place with two games lost. Triumph Lyubertsy will play next round against strong Ventspils trying to get back on the winning streak. Siauliai will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Tartu Ulikool on the road.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Prienai. Second ranked Lithuanian Rudupis faced 3rd ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo. Host Rudupis (7-1) defeated guests from Tallinn (5-3) 72-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Kalev/Cramo. Forward Simas Buterlevicius (200-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points. Saulius Kuzminskas contributed with 8 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Rudupis' coach Virginijus Seskus used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Latvian guard Armands Skele (192-83) replied with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Kalev/Cramo. Rudupis have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain second position in Elite with 7-1 record having just -1 point less than leader Siauliai. Defending Estonian champion Kalev/Cramo dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Rudupis will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Kalev/Cramo will play at home against the league's leader Siauliai (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Eleventh-ranked Lithuanian Baltai Kaunas (1-7) made lots of trouble for fourth ranked Latvian Ventspils (5-2) on Saturday. Ventspils managed to secure only five-point victory 82-77. However their fans expected much easier game. Worth to mention a great performance of Arturs Berzins who helped to win the game recording 13 points and 7 rebounds. Sarunas Vasiliauskas responded with 24 points. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Ventspils moved-up to third place in Elite. Baltai Kaunas lost seventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with seven games lost. Ventspils will meet Triumph Lyubertsy (#5) in the next round. Baltai Kaunas will play against Kedainiai (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Pasvalys was also worth to mention about. 6th ranked Estonian Tartu Ulikool (3-6) played at the court of eighth ranked Lithuanian Pieno Zvaigzdes (3-3). Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to secure a 9-point victory 82-73. The winners were led by TreVon Hughes who scored that evening 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Roberts Stelmahers allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Pieno Zvaigzdes moved-up to sixth place in Elite. Tartu Ulikool at the other side dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes' next round opponent will be Kedainiai (#9) at home. Tartu Ulikool will play against the league's leader Siauliai.

Rest of the games of round 8 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
In Group A Neptunas lost to undefeated Naglis Palangos in Palanga 79-82. Winless Jelgava were beaten by Tarvas at home 63-80.
In Group B TTU/Kalev won against Rapla on the opponent's court 69-65. Turiba was outscored by Sakalai in a home game 67-89.
In Elite Triumph managed to beat Liepaja on the road 70-62.
The best stats of 8th round was 14 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists by Augustas Peciukevicius of Sakalai.

Challenge

Jelgava - Barsy Atyrau 91-93 OT

Top scorers:
Jelgava: E.Krumins 43+10reb, K.Kanbergs 13+5reb+6ast, A.Justovics 12+4reb+1ast, K.Nelson 9+13reb, A.Duselis 5+6reb+1ast, A.Ausejs 5+2reb
Barsy Atyrau: M.Laksa 32+6reb, M.Evstigneev 18+10reb+2ast, D.Gavrilov 16+11reb, P.Tsyopych 13+4reb+6ast, E.Isakov 8+4reb+1ast, D.Dyatlovsky 3+2reb+3ast

Naglis Palangos - Neptunas 82-79

The game between closely ranked teams ended with second-ranked Neptunas' (3-2) road loss to top-ranked Naglis Palangos (5-0) 79-82 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 47-40 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Naglis Palangos forced 19 Neptunas turnovers. The best player for the winners was Russian forward Nikita Barinov (200-91) who had a double-double by scoring 29 points and 10 rebounds. point guard Tomas Rinkevicius (178-78) chipped in 11 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Guard Martynas Mazeika (193-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) produced 21 points and forward Simas Galdikas (203-87) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Neptunas' coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Naglis Palangos maintains first position in Group A with 5-0 record. Loser Neptunas keep the second place with two games lost. Naglis Palangos will face Barsy Atyrau (#4) at home in the next round.
Top scorers:
Neptunas: M.Mazeika 21+4reb+2ast, M.Ruikis 13+1reb+2ast, S.Galdikas 12+5reb+1ast, M.Runkaukas 9+1reb+3ast, E.Dainys 8+1reb+1ast, A.Valeika 6+3reb+3ast
Naglis Palangos: N.Barinov 29+10reb+1ast, D.Johnson 13+3reb+1ast, T.Rinkevicius 11+7reb+6ast, B.Benn 8+7reb+1ast, P.Kleiza 8+2reb+2ast, M.Reminas 8+1ast

Jelgava - Tarvas 63-80

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Estonian BC Rakvere (2-2) defeated on the road bottom-ranked Latvian Jelgava (0-5) 80-63 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 80-63. BC Rakvere outrebounded Jelgava 41-28 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was center Reinar Hallik (208-84) who scored 19 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Latvian center Kaspars Cipruss (210-82, agency: Interperformances) chipped in a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. Four BC Rakvere players scored in double figures. Swingman Edgars Krumins (194-86) produced 19 points and 9 rebounds and American forward Kyle Nelson (203-89, college: Augustana, IL, agency: N.E.T.) added 14 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. BC Rakvere maintains third position in Group A with 2-2 record having four points less than leader Naglis Palangos. Loser Jelgava still closes the standings with five games lost. BC Rakvere will have a break next round. Jelgava will play at home against Barsy Atyrau (#4) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Jelgava: E.Krumins 19+9reb+2ast, K.Nelson 14+9reb, K.Krumins 12+2reb+2ast, A.Duselis 7+5reb+1ast, A.Ausejs 5, A.Justovics 4+2reb+1ast
Tarvas: R.Hallik 19+6reb+7ast, K.Cipruss 18+12reb+1ast, T.Oja 18+3reb+3ast, J.Umbrasko 14+6reb+1ast, V.Kriisa 5+6reb+3ast, V.Veski 4+7reb

Rapla - TTU/Kalev 65-69

The game between closely ranked teams ended with bottom-ranked Rapla's (0-6) home loss to fifth ranked TTU/Kalev (2-4) 65-69 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 19-11 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was forward Kiur Akenparg (190-88) who scored 20 points and 5 steals. Forward Illimar Pilk (195-88) chipped in 18 points. Power forward Raido Ringmets (206-83) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds and point guard Rait-Riivo Laane (180-93) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the hosts. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Rapla's coach Indrek Ruut tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. TTU/Kalev moved-up to fourth place in Group B. Loser Rapla still closes the standings with six games lost. TTU/Kalev will face higher ranked Valmiera (#3) at home in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Rapla will play against Valmiera and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Rapla: R.Ringmets 14+12reb+2ast, A.Parn 13+2reb+1ast, J.Soo 12+4reb+2ast, R.Laane 11+5reb+5ast, H.Erm 8+3reb+2ast, S.Kaldre 3+2reb+1ast
TTU/Kalev: K.Akenparg 20+3reb+3ast, I.Pilk 18+4reb+2ast, A.Arnold 10+13reb+1ast, K.Keres 10+1reb+3ast, E.Keedus 8+4reb+3ast, S.Raudla 2

Turiba - Sakalai 67-89

The game between closely ranked teams ended with third ranked Lithuanian Sakalai's (5-2) road victory over 4th ranked Latvian Turiba (2-5) 89-67 on Saturday. The game without a history. Sakalai led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Sakalai outrebounded Turiba 43-28 including a 29-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Turiba was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was guard Augustas Peciukevicius (191-91) who scored 14 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists. Center Paulius Joneliunas (211-84, college: American) chipped in 17 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Four Sakalai players scored in double figures. Center Roberts Mednis (204-89) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds and forward Kristaps Mediss (188-89, agency: FCM) added 17 points respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Sakalai moved-up to second place in Group B. Loser Turiba dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Sakalai will face league's leader Techasas in Panevezys in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Turiba will play on the road against Rapla (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Turiba: K.Mediss 17+1reb+2ast, R.Mednis 17+12reb+2ast, M.Steinbergs 9+4reb+1ast, J.Dilevka 7+3reb+1ast, E.Kikuts 7+1reb+2ast, M.Sokolovs 5+4ast
Sakalai: P.Joneliunas 17+7reb, A.Peciukevicius 14+8reb+9ast, A.Gydra 13+5reb+2ast, M.Kadzevicius 10+5reb+2ast, D.Pukis 8+2reb+2ast, J.Gintvainis 7

Elite

Pieno Zvaigzdes - Tartu Ulikool 82-73

The game in Pasvalys was also worth to mention about. 6th ranked Estonian Tartu Ulikool (3-6) played at the court of eighth ranked Lithuanian Pieno Zvaigzdes (3-3). Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to secure a 9-point victory 82-73. It looked good early as Tartu Ulikool took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Pieno Zvaigzdes had a 20-7 second period charge getting the lead and Tartu Ulikool was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 73-82. Pieno Zvaigzdes dominated on the defensive end, holding Tartu Ulikool to just 7 points in second quarter. Pieno Zvaigzdes forced 19 Tartu Ulikool turnovers and outrebounded them 38-27 including 24 on the defensive glass. 24 personal fouls committed by Tartu Ulikool helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The winners were led by American-Puerto Rican point guard TreVon Hughes (183-87, college: Wisconsin, agency: Edge Sports) who scored that evening 22 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and American swingman Leroy Nobles (195-87, college: IUPUI) supported him with 17 points. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Roberts Stelmahers allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 14 points and 4 assists by Greek-Estonian guard Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-89) did not help to save the game for Tartu Ulikool. American forward Bill Amis (205-87, college: Hawaii) added 15 points and 7 rebounds for the guests. Pieno Zvaigzdes moved-up to sixth place in Elite. Tartu Ulikool at the other side dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes' next round opponent will be Kedainiai (#9) at home. Tartu Ulikool will play against the league's leader Siauliai.
Top scorers:
Tartu Ulikool: B.Amis 15+7reb, S.Sokk 14+4reb+4ast, T.Kurbas 10+1reb+1ast, S.Leppik 9+1reb+2ast, R.Veideman 9+2reb+1ast, K.Saage 7+5reb+2ast
Pieno Zvaigzdes: T.Hughes 22+5reb+4ast, L.Nobles 17+4reb, Z.Kelys 16+3reb, A.Kieza 9+3reb+2ast, E.Bendzius 8+3reb+1ast, E.Kairys 6+5reb+1ast

Rudupis - Kalev/Cramo 72-64

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Prienai. Second ranked Lithuanian Rudupis faced 3rd ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo. Host Rudupis (7-1) defeated guests from Tallinn (5-3) 72-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Kalev/Cramo. Kalev/Cramo was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Rudupis players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Kalev/Cramo's players. Forward Simas Buterlevicius (200-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points. Power forward Saulius Kuzminskas (210-82, college: California) contributed with 8 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Rudupis' coach Virginijus Seskus used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Latvian guard Armands Skele (192-83) replied with 15 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Gregor Arbet (194-83) added 15 points in the effort for Kalev/Cramo. Rudupis have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain second position in Elite with 7-1 record having just -1 point less than leader Siauliai. Defending Estonian champion Kalev/Cramo dropped to the fourth place with three games lost. Rudupis will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Kalev/Cramo will play at home against the league's leader Siauliai (#1) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Kalev/Cramo: G.Arbet 15+3reb, A.Skele 15+8reb+2ast, N.Varbanov 10+3reb+2ast, T.Sokk 9+2reb+2ast, G.Dorbek 6+1reb, J.Toome 5+7reb+1ast
Rudupis: S.Buterlevicius 15+2reb+2ast, A.Juskevicius 13+1reb+1ast, S.Kuzminskas 8+7reb+1ast, E.Zelionis 8+3reb+1ast, P.Butkevicius 7+7reb, G.Orelikas 6+7reb+3ast

Ventspils - Baltai Kaunas 82-77 OT

Eleventh-ranked Lithuanian Baltai Kaunas (1-7) made lots of trouble for fourth ranked Latvian Ventspils (5-2) on Saturday. Ventspils managed to secure only five-point victory 82-77. However their fans expected much easier game. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime then Baltai Kaunas managed to tie the game at the end of regular time. However that was Ventspils who were better in overtime eventually winning that period 11-6. They made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of center Arturs Berzins (204-88, agency: FCM) who helped to win the game recording 13 points and 7 rebounds and American guard Todd Abernethy (185-84, college: Mississippi) who added 15 points and 4 assists during the contest. Five Ventspils players scored in double figures. Guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-89, agency: Alti Sport) responded with 24 points and center Mindaugas Kupsas (214-91) scored 14 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Ventspils moved-up to third place in Elite. Baltai Kaunas lost seventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with seven games lost. Ventspils will meet Triumph Lyubertsy (#5) in the next round. Baltai Kaunas will play against Kedainiai (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Baltai Kaunas: S.Vasiliauskas 24+2reb+1ast, S.Vene 15+6reb, M.Kupsas 14+8reb+1ast, V.Cepukaitis 6+2reb+1ast, E.Ulanovas 5+3reb, M.Delas 5+5reb+1ast
Ventspils: T.Abernethy 15+3reb+4ast, J.Young 14+2reb+3ast, A.Berzins 13+7reb+2ast, S.Gray 11+1reb, B.Bakic 10+5reb+2ast, M.Meiers 10+7reb+1ast

Liepaja - Triumph 62-70

Not a big story in a game when 10th ranked Latvian Liepaja (2-7) was defeated at home by fifth ranked Russian Triumph Lyubertsy (3-2) 70-62 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 40-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Triumph Lyubertsy made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Liepaja turnovers. The best player for the winners was power forward Ivan Lazarev (209-91) who scored 16 points and 6 rebounds. Guard Dmitry Kulagin (195-92) chipped in 9 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. American guard Josh Mayo (182-87, college: Ill.-Chicago, agency: RIZO) produced a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds and guard Artis Ate (193-89) added 10 points respectively for the hosts. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Triumph Lyubertsy maintains fifth position in Elite with 3-2 record. Loser Liepaja keeps the tenth place with seven games lost. Triumph Lyubertsy will face higher ranked Ventspils (#3) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Liepaja will play against Juventus (#7) in Utena.
Top scorers:
Liepaja: J.Mayo 25+10reb+1ast, A.Ate 10+4reb+2ast, K.Miglinieks 7+1reb, M.Kravcenko 7+2reb+1ast, J.Timma 6+2reb, A.Helmanis 4+2reb
Triumph: I.Lazarev 16+6reb, S.Karasev 12+5reb+1ast, D.Kulagin 9+5reb+4ast, V.Zvarykin 8+4reb, E.Valiev 7+5reb+1ast, A.Vikhrov 6+1reb+1ast

Siauliai - Triumph 101-94

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Lithuanian Siauliai as it allowed them to take a leadership position in Elite. Siauliai defeated 5th ranked Russian Triumph Lyubertsy at home 101-94. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Triumph Lyubertsy. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Triumph Lyubertsy won third quarter 22-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Siauliai looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Triumph Lyubertsy helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American-Samoan point guard Rashaun Broadus (183-84, college: BYU) who scored 24 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. American power forward Denzel Bowles (208-89, college: JMU) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. Canadian power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona) produced 19 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists and American forward Davon Jefferson (204-86, college: USC) added 22 points and 11 rebounds respectively for the guests. Five Siauliai and four Triumph Lyubertsy players scored in double figures. Triumph Lyubertsy's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Siauliai (7-0) have an impressive seven-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Triumph Lyubertsy at the other side keeps the fifth place with two games lost. Triumph Lyubertsy will play next round against strong Ventspils trying to get back on the winning streak. Siauliai will try to continue on its current victory against eighth ranked Tartu Ulikool on the road.
Top scorers:
Triumph: D.Jefferson 22+11reb+1ast, K.Landry 19+9reb+6ast, V.Zvarykin 14+2reb+3ast, D.Kulagin 13+1reb+3ast, T.McKee 9+3ast, I.Lazarev 8+1reb
Siauliai: R.Broadus 24+5reb+8ast, D.Bowles 19+5reb+1ast, V.Vasylius 13+7reb+3ast, D.Gvezdauskas 13+6reb+2ast, A.Siksnius 12+4reb+1ast, M.Zukauskas 10+2reb+5ast

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Edgars KRUMINS
  Jelgava
  (194-G/F-86)
  Avg: 21.6

1. Krumins, Jelgava	21.6
2. Laksa, Barsy Atyr.	21.3
3. Bowles, Siauliai	20.0
4. Barinov, Naglis P.	18.6
5. Kalve, Valmiera	18.6
6. Pilk, TT.	17.5
7. Hallik, Tarvas	17.0
8. Soo, Rapla	16.5
9. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	16.2
10. Mayo, Liepaja	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Andrew ARNOLD
  TT.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 8.7

1. Arnold, TT.	8.7
2. Nelson, Jelgava	8.7
3. Mednis, Turiba	8.7
4. Galdikas, Neptunas	8.6
5. Johnson, Naglis P.	8.4
6. Ringmets, Rapla	8.3
7. McClure, Kedainiai	7.9
8. Willard, Ventspils	7.7
9. Benn, Naglis Palan.	7.6
10. Barinov, Naglis P.	7.4

Assists Per Game

Mindaugas STASYS
  Neptunas
  (180-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Stasys, Neptunas	6.7
2. Maceina, Juventus	6.5
3. Broadus, Siauliai	6.3
4. Rinkevicius, Nagli.	5.5
5. Dainys, Neptunas	4.8
6. Dorbek, Tarvas	4.8
7. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	4.3
8. Peciukeviciu., Sak.	4.3
9. Sokk, Tartu Ulikool	4.2
10. Lucas, Valmiera	4.1

Steals Per Game

Erik KEEDUS
  TT.
  (194-F-90)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Keedus, TT.	2.3
2. Peciukas, Kedainiai	2.3
3. Virsis, Valmiera	2.3
4. Salenga, Rudupis	2.1
5. McKee, Triumph	2.0
6. Krumins, Jelgava	2.0
7. Hughes, Pieno Z.	2.0
8. Oja, Tarvas	2.0
9. Kriisa, Tarvas	1.8
10. Rinkevicius, Nagl.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Johnson, Naglis P.	2.4
2. Gumeniuk, Juventus	2.3
3. Rozitis, Valmiera	2.1
4. Staniulis, Techasas	1.4
5. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	1.3
6. Keedus, TT.	1.0
7. Petrukonis, Juven.	1.0
8. Siksnius, Siauliai	0.9
9. Bowles, Siauliai	0.9
10. Amis, Tartu Uliko.	0.8

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

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

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

BELGIUM

BRAZIL

Rodrigo Silva signs with Texas Tech - by Paulo Freire
Power forward Rodrigo Silva has signed a national letter of intent with Texas Tech University for the 2012-13 season. The 6-foot-10, 225-pound native of Sao Paulo, Brazil, plans to enroll at the Lubbock, Texas, school after graduating from Laramie County Community College this spring.

Texas Tech has been looking at Silva for several months. Other schools showing interest included the University of Alabama-Birmingham, Wichita State University, Washington State University, the University of Hawaii and the University of Utah.
Silva visited the Texas Tech campus last month and decided it was the right fit for him.

I believe I can play for this team and help this team be better, he says. Its the best school for me.

Last season, Silva averaged 13.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.8 blocks per game. His blocks per game average ranked second in the NJCAA. He was named to the All-Region IX Team last year, and was honored as the NJCAA Division I Player of the Week on Feb. 8.

Since LCCC basketball coach Jason Ficca and assistant coach DeWayne Saulsberry took over the program in 2007, three players, including Silva, have gone on to continue their basketball careers at NCAA Division I schools. Colby Batiste transferred to Louisiana-Lafayette in 2008, and Romaric Lasme went to Morehead State in Kentucky in 2010.

Rodrigo Silva signs with Texas Tech - by Paulo Freire
Power forward Rodrigo Silva (203-F-90) has signed a national letter of intent with Texas Tech University for the 2012-13 season. The 6-foot-10, 225-pound native of Sao Paulo, Brazil, plans to enroll at the Lubbock, Texas, school after graduating from Laramie County Community College this spring.

Texas Tech has been looking at Silva for several months. Other schools showing interest included the University of Alabama-Birmingham, Wichita State University, Washington State University, the University of Hawaii and the University of Utah.
Silva visited the Texas Tech campus last month and decided it was the right fit for him.

I believe I can play for this team and help this team be better, he says. Its the best school for me.

Last season, Silva averaged 13.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.8 blocks per game. His blocks per game average ranked second in the NJCAA. He was named to the All-Region IX Team last year, and was honored as the NJCAA Division I Player of the Week on Feb. 8.

Since LCCC basketball coach Jason Ficca and assistant coach DeWayne Saulsberry took over the program in 2007, three players, including Silva, have gone on to continue their basketball careers at NCAA Division I schools. Colby Batiste transferred to Louisiana-Lafayette in 2008, and Romaric Lasme went to Morehead State in Kentucky in 2010.

Nene wants out; six teams in hunt - by Eurobasket News
One of the surest bets of the soon-to-begin 2011 NBA free-agent period is that Hilario Nene (6'10''-C-82) wants out of Denver. Where he winds up, and how, will be among the most intriguing storylines when the floodgates open around Dec. 9.

The Nuggets are operating under the firm belief that Nene will test the market as an unrestricted free agent, according to a person familiar with the team's thinking. Six teams have registered interest, the source said: Golden State, New Jersey, Indiana, Miami, Dallas and Houston.

Nene, the top unrestricted free agent on the market in the view of many team executives, will have a say over where he winds up -- though not as much as free agents did under the previous system since free agents can no longer get max deals when leaving their teams via sign-and-trades.

Nene, 29, has long coveted Miami and Dallas as landing spots, but would have to force his way to one of those teams via a sign-and-trade since both are well over the cap. And whereas LeBron James was able to get a max deal through a sign-and-trade when he went from Cleveland to Miami, Nene would have to settle for a four-year deal with 4.5 percent raises under the new system in such an arrangement.

If the Golden State used the amnesty provision on Andris Biedrins, the Warriors would have enough room to sign Nene outright for close to the max -- but again, that would be a four-year deal with non-Bird raises as opposed to the five-year deal with 7.5 percent raises he'd get by re-signing with Denver. There's no incentive under the new rules for Nene to push for a sign-and-trade as opposed to an outright signing with another team, unless there was a clear preference for a team that didn't have room to sign him.

There is incentive, however, for the Nuggets to accommodate his wishes in the hopes of getting significant assets back through a sign-and-trade. For the Nuggets, the most advantageous scenario would be if Nene wanted to be in Miami, Dallas or Houston enough to be willing to accept less money to get there.

UPDATE: The Nets would have room sign Nene to a max deal starting at 30 percent of the cap -- $17.4 million -- if they used amnesty on Travis Outlaw. The Pacers have enough room regardless, while the Rockets are close. They would either do a sign-and-trade or trade a player to create cap space or a trade exception. A source indicated the Rockets have no plans to use the amnesty clause on Terrence Williams.

Courtesy of http://ken-berger.blogs.cbssports.com

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

BULGARIA

Rilski Sportist gets bigger with Sasa Mijajlovic - by Eurobasket News
Sasa Mijajlovic (211-C-80, college: Hutchinson CC) will continue his career in Bulgaria. The Serbian big guy signed a deal with Rilski Sportist for rest of the season. Mijajlovic started it with Sloga Kraljevo. He appeared 8 times in Serbian league averaging 15.1 points and 6.8 rebounds. Last season, Sasa Mijajlovic changed three teams. He started with Slovenian Zlatorog Lasko, but they parted ways in December. Soon after that Mijajlovic joined Sloga Kraljevo and later signed with Montenegrin Ulcinj. He helped Ulcinj reach the Playoff Semifinals in Montenegro and Quarterfinals in BIBL. In the past, Mijajlovic played on Cyprus and in Romania. He also has experience from Slovenian and Bosnian leagues.

Rilski grabs victory in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
BIBL, Round 4: Torus Skopje - Rilski Sportist 80-85

Rilski Sportist did a great job in Balkan league last night. The Bulgarian squad grabbed 80-85 road victory against Torus improving to 3-1 record in Group A of the regular season. At the same time, Torus dropped to 1-2 in this pool. The guests trailed by 14 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 5 points. Strangely Torus Skopje outrebounded Rilski Sportist 42-29 including 29 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 6 assists and Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) who added 18 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Four Rilski Sportist players scored in double figures. At the losing side FYR Macedonian-Bulgarian guard Dimitar Karadzovski (190-G-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded with 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. Rilski Sportist will meet OKK Beograd on the road in the next round. Torus Skopje will play against the league's leader Galil Gilboa.

Torus Skopje: D.Karadzovski 20+7reb+4ast, J.Reynolds 17+12reb, P.Blazevski 13+3reb+2ast, G.Markovski 9+4reb+2ast, B.Krstevski 7+8reb, N.Karakolev 6+4reb+1ast
Rilski Sportist: B.Mirkovic 19+4reb+6ast, F.Vukosavljevic 18+7reb, M.Marinov 17+6reb+1ast, A.Bilobrk 15+4reb+1ast, S.Vaklinov 9+1reb, B.Boev 5+2reb+2ast

Levski Sofia jumps to 4-0 in BIBL - by Eurobasket News
BIBL, Round 4: Levski Sofia - Napredak 74-72

Another Bulgarian team celebrated in Round Four of the Balkan league. It is Levski who escaped with 74-72 home win against Napredak. The Sophia team jumped to 4-0 after this meeting and kept the first place in Group B. Napredak faced with third loss this season. Visitors cut a 14-point halftime deficit to two at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Hall (185-G-85, college: Colorado) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Power forward Aco Mandic (204-C/F-84) replied with 24 points and 7 rebounds and Slaven Cupkovic (205-PF-88) added 19 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Napredak Rubin. Levski Sofia have a solid four-game winning streak. Levski Sofia will play against Feni Indistrija (#3) in Kavadarci in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Napredak Rubin will play at home against Ulcinj in Ulcijn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Napredak: A.Mandic 24+7reb, S.Cupkovic 19+9reb+1ast, M.Radonjic 11+5reb+6ast, M.Puzic 6+4reb+2ast, V.Radmanovac 5+10reb+3ast, A.Lekic 5+3ast
Levski Sofia: M.Hall 22+7reb+2ast, H.Dimitrov 16+4reb+3ast, Z.Georgiev 15+1reb+3ast, D.Anguelov 7+2reb+1ast, J.Bozov 5+3reb+3ast, P.Ivanov 5+3reb+3ast

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

CHINA

Standings - CBA

CBA Standings

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

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 35.4

1. Hudson, Qingdao DS	35.4
2. Chandler, Guangsha.	32.0
3. Martin, Jilin N.	28.4
4. Williams, Shanxi Z.	27.0
5. Green, Foshan	26.5
6. Boone, Zhejiang C.	25.3
7. Mills, Xinjiang.	24.0
8. Marbury, Beijing	23.8
9. Roberson, Fujian XX	23.8
10. Harris, Shanghai	23.3

Rebounds Per Game

Othello HUNTER
  Shandong FB
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 16.2

1. Hunter, Shandong	16.2
2. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	15.3
3. Harris, Shanghai S.	15.3
4. Martin, Xinjiang.	14.0
5. Harrison, TianJ.	13.4
6. Abbas, Fujian XX	13.3
7. Chandler, Guangsha.	12.6
8. Gadzuric, Jiang.	12.4
9. McDonald, Fujian X.	12.0
10. Randolph, DongGu.	11.6

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 9

1. Daghles, Jilin N.	9.0
2. Marbury, Beijing	5.6
3. Hudson, Qingdao DS	5.4
4. Collins, Jiangsu D.	5.3
5. Smith, Zhejiang C.	5.0
6. Fahed, TianJin R.	4.6
7. Mills, Xinjiang.	4.5
8. Maadanly, Foshan	4.5
9. Liu, Shanghai S.	4.0
10. Brooks, Guandong	4.0

Steals Per Game

XueFeng HU
  Jiangsu D.
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Hu, Jiangsu D.	3.6
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	3.2
3. Collins, Jiangsu D.	2.8
4. Lee, Beijing Ducks	2.8
5. Wei, Jiangsu D.	2.5
6. Wang, Guandong ST	2.4
7. Akognon, DongGuan.	2.4
8. Marbury, Beijing	2.4
9. Anderson, Shandon.	2.4
10. Zhang, Bayi Fuba.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

ZhaoXu ZHANG
  Shanghai S.
  (221-C-87)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Zhang, Shanghai S.	2.8
2. Xu, Bayi Fubang	2.0
3. Li, Liaoning H.	1.8
4. Gadzuric, Jiang.	1.8
5. Boone, Zhejiang C.	1.5
6. Abbas, Fujian XX	1.5
7. Douthit, Foshan	1.5
8. Morris, Beijing Du.	1.4
9. Martin, Xinjiang.	1.3
10. Yi, Guandong ST	1.3

Imports Change - by Robert Wang
Today, CBA Fo Shan team officially announces they decide to release former NBA forward Gerald Green. Because Gerald Green
could not meet team's whole play system and made team lost some games. And team would sign another former NBA. Player
Marcus Haislip. Marcus played in China with Guang Dong tiger team last year and got CBA champion, this made Fo Shan team
showed much more interested in him than other imports.
Meantime, another team Jiang Su decided to cut their current guard Mardy Collins. Because of his personal skill, team decided to
release him from the second game when CBA started. Now team signed with Marcus Williams who played for the NBA NETS team.
NBA. Lockout, gave lots jobs to former or current NBA players and caused lots non NBA players lose their jobs. But from the team's
releasing the imports situation, we may tell that not all NBA players ALL fit CBA. CBA teams need overall good players. If you are a
NBA player, then you must have ability to score, rebound, block, assist. Steal, etc. They need super good players!!! CBA is not that
easy to play!

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

CROATIA

Ivan Sunara takes over Zlatorog Lasko - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Sunara is back to Slovenia. Zlatorog Lasko hired Croatian specialist and he will replace Rado Trifunovic. Slovenians currently have poor 1-8 record in Adriatic league. They also have 5-3 in Slovenian championships. Zlatorog management expected better results and decided to change a Head Coach. Ivan Sunara worked with Helios in 2009/10 season. A year before that he was coaching Krka Novo Mesto. In the past, Sunara also worked with Cibona, Frankfurt, Siroki, Geoplin Slovan and Zrinjevac. He won the Slovenian league title with Krka in 1999/2000 season. In 2004 and 2008, Ivan Sunara led Slovenian U20 NT. In 2007, he was a HC of Team Croatia.

Cibona promotes Danijel Lutz as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Despite yesterday's reports in Croatian media that Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency) is close to take over the team as Head Coach, that will not happen. Cibona officially announced that they negotiated with Repesa, but were not able to agree a deal. At the same time, Cibona promotes Daniel Lutz as the new Head Coach. Lutz worked as Assistant Coach so far. Cibona will play against Cedevita next Saturday. After that, they will host Donestk in EuroCup. Two days ago, Cibona faced with huge defeat in Donetsk. Lutz led the team from the bench as interim HC. He will make debut as new HC against Cedevita. Yesterday, Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency ) was also linked with the Croatian NT.

Panathinaikos beats Zagreb once again - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos - KK Zagreb CO 94-76

Panathinaikos jumped to 5-2 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. The defending champion was too strong for Zagreb once again, 94-76. Croatian champ dropped to 2-5 in this pool. Visitors managed to resists during the first 20 minutes, actually having plus one at the HT, but PAO took control on them after that celebrating comfortable win at the end. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) dominated under the basket collecting 18 points and 9 rebounds. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) and Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) scored 13 pts each, and Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) (5 rebs) added one less. In the loosing squad, Damir Mulaomerovic (195-G-74, agency: FCM) netted 18 points. Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85) had 15 points and 6 rebs, and Sean May (203-F/C-84, college: N.Carolina) had double-double of 12 points and 10 rebs. NBAer T.J. Ford (178-PG-83, college: Texas) scored 12 pts for Zagreb and he was their most valuable player with valuation 17. Quarters: 24-22, 24-27, 23-13, 23-14. PAO goes to Kaunas next week. Zagreb will meet CSKA in Moscow.

Panathinaikos: Mike Batiste 18+9 boards, David Logan 13, Nick Calathes 13, Romain Sato 12+5 boards
Zagreb: Damir Mulaomerovic 18, Krunoslav Simon 15+6 boards, Sean May 12+10 boards, T.J. Ford 12

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

A Changing of the Guard (s) Between Ostrava and Chomutov - by Surujh Roopnarine
In an unusual series of events, seventh-place NH Ostrava (6-9) and 11th-place Levharti Chomutov (5-10) have new starting point-guards. Veteran guard Derek Wright (175-G-86, college: Austin Peay St.) has moved to Ostrava, while the player he was replacing, second-year guard Darren Duncan (180-G-88, college: Merrimack), was brought in by Chomutov for an extended test-period. Over the last week Derek Wright was approached by the management of Ostrava about the possibility of joining them. Ostrava had begun the season with Semaj Inge (193-G-87, college: Temple), but then brought in Darren Duncan after not being satisfied with Inges performance. Derek Wright viewed the opportunity in Ostrava as being more beneficial and as his contract was structured, could leave for a better financial offer. Caught unawares, and dealing with a lack of depth due to aninjury to Rob Lowery (188-G-87, college: Dayton), Chomutov made the next reasonable step and brought in the now well-traveled Duncan. Derek Wright had been having an outstanding season statistically for Chomutov after being a major off-season coup for the club. In 14 games he averaged 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2.4 steals, while shooting 49.0% on tw-point field goals and 26.6% from three. After spending two successful seasons in Pardubice, the former Austin Peay State star will now lace up for his fourth Czech club during his three-year professional career. Duncan, a New York native, was an assist machine at NCAA Division II Merrimack, finishing in the top-two nationally each of his four seasons. He acquitted himself well during his four-game run at Ostrava, averaging 9.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.3 steals while shooting 44.4% on two-point shots, 18.2% from three and 77.3% from the line. Both players should be in uniform for their new clubs in time for this weekends Round 16 action.

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

DENMARK

SISU adds young talent. - by Thomas Soltau
SISU have added a new young guard. Yaw Gyamfi (184-G-92) will add another young body to the SISU backcourt.

The player started the season with the newcomer Falcon, but left after 11 games.

Gyamfi averaged 4,3 points and 0,9 assist in 12min per game. The young player should be able to contribute right away, once he becomes allegeable to play.

SISU guard Mickey Dennis recently suffered a smaller injury to his back, so should this keep the veteran player out for a longer period, picking up Gyamfi could be nice for head coach Almir Zeco.

Chris Nielsen claims Ligaen weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
International swingman Chris Nielsen (192-G/F-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Bakken and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 26-year old swingman had the game-high 31 points adding seven rebounds for Bakken in his team's victory, helping them to crush Aabyhoj (#4, 6-7) with 25-point margin 80-55. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Bakken maintains the 2nd position in Ligaen. Bakken has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 11-1. In the team's last game Nielsen had a remarkable nine three-pointers out of 14 attempts. It's his second year at Bakken and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Chris Nielsen averages this season 15.3ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old American forward Donald Rutherford (198-F-87) of SISU. Rutherford impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 21 points and 14 rebounds. Of course SISU cruised to a 74-66 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Horsholm (#6, 5-8). SISU's 5th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-7 record. Rutherford is well-known by SISU fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.6ppg (#5). He also registered 7.9 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Ryan White (177-PG-88) of Aalborg (#7). White showcased his all-around game by recording 23 points, twelve rebounds (!!!) and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of Aalborg, leading his team to a 78-72 win against the lower-ranked Falcon (#10, 3-10). The chances of Aalborg not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 8 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, White could try to bring Aalborg's a little bit higher in the standings. White has individually a great season in Denmark. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 25.8ppg (2nd best) and assists with 4.6apg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Will Harris (198-F-86) of Horsens IC - 22 points and 10 rebounds
5. Mike St.John (203-F/C-84) of Horsens IC - 20 points and 10 rebounds
6. Jordan Glynn (200-F-89) of Naestved - 17 points and 11 rebounds
7. Durell Vinson (201-F-85) of Svendborg - 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Bonell Colas (205-F-82) of Horsholm - 14 points and 13 rebounds
9. Chanan Colman (191-G-84) of Svendborg - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Soren Sorensen (196-F-88) of Aalborg - 14 points, 10 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 - Basketligaen

Ligaen Standings

1. Svendborg		14-0
2. Bakken		11-1
3. Naestved		8-5
4. Aabyhoj		6-7
5. SISU		6-7
6. Aalborg		5-8
7. Horsholm		5-9
8. Horsens IC		4-9
9. Vaerlose		4-10
10. Falcon		3-10

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Will HARRIS
  Horsens IC
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 25.9

1. Harris, Horsens IC	25.9
2. White, Aalborg	25.5
3. Kingsley, Svendborg	21.2
4. Henry, Naestved	20.9
5. Rutherford, SISU	20.6
6. Rasmussen, Vaerl.	19.8
7. Bishop, Aalborg	19.0
8. Curry, Aabyhoj	18.3
9. Bak, Horsholm	17.2
10. Colman, Svendborg	17.1

Rebounds Per Game

Tony BISHOP
  Aalborg
  (201-F-89)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Bishop, Aalborg	10.9
2. Glynn, Naestved	10.3
3. St.John, Horsens	10.2
4. Benjamin, Horsholm	9.5
5. Colas, Horsholm	9.2
6. Curry, Aabyhoj	9.1
7. Phillips, Aabyhoj	8.8
8. Harris, Horsens IC	8.7
9. Ba, Falcon	8.2
10. Johansen, Naestv.	8.0

Assists Per Game

Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Henry, Naestved	5.1
2. White, Aalborg	4.8
3. McFarlane, Falcon	4.2
4. Sattler, Horsens IC	4.1
5. Colman, Svendborg	4.1
6. Elgmork, Aalborg	4.0
7. Sakne, Horsens IC	3.9
8. Curry, Aabyhoj	3.6
9. Iversen, Bakken	3.3
10. Plannthin, Svend.	3.1

Steals Per Game

Corin HENRY
  Naestved
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Henry, Naestved	4.8
2. Wire, Vaerlose	3.0
3. Dennis, SISU	2.5
4. White, Aalborg	2.5
5. Bishop, Aalborg	2.2
6. McFarlane, Falcon	2.1
7. Sattler, Horsens IC	1.9
8. Plannthin, Svend.	1.9
9. Curry, Aabyhoj	1.8
10. Kristiansen, Aalb.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Jenard HARRISON
  SISU
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Harrison, SISU	2.4
2. Phillips, Aabyhoj	1.8
3. Bishop, Aalborg	1.8
4. Colas, Horsholm	1.7
5. Christoffers., Bak.	1.7
6. Curry, Aabyhoj	1.6
7. Marinkovic, Horsho.	1.4
8. Eleraky, Aalborg	1.2
9. Larsen, Vaerlose	0.9
10. Vinson, Svendborg	0.9

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

D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Ft.Wayne MA		1-0
2. Springfield A.		1-0
3. Dakota W.		1-1
4. Sioux Falls S.		1-1
5. Iowa E.		1-2
6. Canton C.		0-1
7. Maine RC		0-1
8. Erie Bay H.		0-2
West Conference
1. Rio Grande VV		3-0
2. Tulsa 66ers		3-0
3. Bakersfield J.		2-0
4. Los Angeles D.		2-2
5. Austin T.		1-0
6. Reno B.		1-3
7. Idaho S.		0-2
8. Texas L.		0-2

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Charles GARCIA
  Sioux F.
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 28

1. Garcia, Sioux F.	28.0
2. Dentmon, Austin T.	28.0
3. Butch, Bakersfi.	27.5
4. Sloan, Erie Bay H.	27.5
5. Thomas, Austin T.	25.0
6. Johnson, Austin T.	25.0
7. Franklin, Canton C.	25.0
8. Ahearn, Reno B.	24.8
9. Famous, Iowa E.	24.7
10. Pruitt, Sioux F.	22.5

Rebounds Per Game

Jamal SAMPSON
  Texas L.
  (210-F/C-83)
  Avg: 15

1. Sampson, Texas L.	15.0
2. Butch, Bakersfi.	13.5
3. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers	13.3
4. Famous, Iowa E.	12.7
5. Lazare, Ft.Wayne.	12.0
6. Stiemsma, Sioux F.	12.0
7. Daniels, Erie B.	11.5
8. Goldcamp, Erie B.	11.0
9. Horner, Springfi.	10.0
10. Wright, Maine RC	10.0

Assists Per Game

Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 12

1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	12.0
2. Sloan, Erie Bay H.	11.0
3. Cooksey, Texas L.	8.5
4. Farrakhan, Bakers.	8.0
5. Ahearn, Reno B.	7.3
6. Tinsley, Los A.	7.3
7. Dentmon, Austin T.	7.0
8. Galloway, Idaho S.	7.0
9. Bozeman, Reno B.	6.5
10. Baker, Dakota W.	6.0

Steals Per Game

Travis FRANKLIN
  Canton C.
  (200-F-88)
  Avg: 5

1. Franklin, Canton C.	5.0
2. Hurdle, Springfi.	3.0
3. Millsap, Los A.	3.0
4. Jackson, Ft.Wayne.	3.0
5. Spates, Springfi.	3.0
6. Fortson, Los A.	2.8
7. Hamilton, Los A.	2.8
8. Stiemsma, Sioux F.	2.5
9. Tinsley, Los A.	2.5
10. Ubiles, Dakota W.	2.5

Blocks Per Game

Will FOSTER
  Idaho S.
  (226-C-88)
  Avg: 6

1. Foster, Idaho S.	6.0
2. Stiemsma, Sioux F.	5.0
3. Major, Bakersfi.	3.0
4. Thompson, Erie B.	3.0
5. Goldcamp, Erie B.	2.5
6. Coleman, Rio G.	2.3
7. Koch, Bakersfi.	2.0
8. Wright, Maine RC	2.0
9. Anderson, Dakota	2.0
10. Franklin, Canton	2.0

Dontell Jefferson returns to Idaho Stampede - by Eurobasket News
Idaho Stampede bolstered their backcourt. They signed contract with Dontell Jefferson (6'5''-G-83, college: Arkansas). The guard started the season in Canada. He played for the Quebec Kebs in NBL. Dontell Jefferson tallied 4.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. Last season the guard started in the Utah Flash in D-League. His stats read 6.5 points and 1.0 steal. In December Dontell Jefferson moved to the Idaho Stampede. There the guard notched 10.3 points, 3.6 boards, 3.4 assists and 1.4 steals. Previously Dontell Jefferson had stints in the NBA, Latvia and D-League. The player participated at 2010 D-League All-Star Game.

Tulsa 66ers claim Ladustin Williams - by Eurobasket News
The Tulsa 66ers, proud affiliate of the Oklahoma City Thunder, announced today they have claimed guard Ladustin Williams (6'1''-G). Tulsa's roster now stands at 11 heading into tonight's road game against the Texas Legends at 7 p.m.

Williams attended Tulsa's local player tryouts in October and participated in the 66ers training camp in November. Williams played collegiately for Arkansas-Fort Smith where he averaged 14.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.6 steals during his senior year.

Williams will wear jersey No. 7.

The 66ers home opener is scheduled for this Saturday, Dec. 3, at 7 p.m. against the Austin Toros inside the Tulsa Convention Center.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Skyforce reacquires McShepard - by Eurobasket News
The Sioux Falls Skyforce announced today that that the team has reacquired forward Billy McShepard (6'10''-F, college: Valdosta St.). He was originally selected in the fourth round (60th overall) of the 2011 NBA Development League Draft before being waived due to injury on Nov. 22. The active roster now stands at 11 players.

McShepard averaged 7.9 points and 6.5 rebounds in two seasons (57 games) at Valdosta State University (D2). He averaged 15.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 17 games at Louisburg Community College in 2008-09. The 6-10, 220-pound forward averaged 4.6 points in 11 games as a freshman at Christopher Newport University.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Jam adds center Aguilar to roster - by Eurobasket News
The Bakersfield Jam has re-acquired 7-foot-1, 244-pound center Ronnie Aguilar (7'0''-C, college: Colorado St.).

Aguilar earned a training camp invitation from the Jam after a local tryout. He played for Colorado State, averaging 3.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in 27 games his final season.

NBA D-League teams are permitted to carry a maximum of 12 players until one week after the commencement of NBA training camps, at which point they will be required to return to no more than 10 NBA D-League players.

The current roster has 11 players.

Courtesy of www.bakersfield.com

Canton Charge waive Anthony Newell - by Eurobasket News
The Canton Charge waived guard-forward Anthony Newell (6'5''-F-86, college: Ball St.) today because of an injury.

The 6-5, 205-pound Newell played in Cantons only game last Friday, recording two points, six rebounds and two steals in 27 minutes.

Newell suffered a stress fracture in his lower right leg. He thinks the injury happened in a Nov. 19 scrimmage. It began bothering him prior to last Fridays opener. A bone scan Monday revealed the fracture.

Newell signed with the Charge as a free agent Nov. 4 after competing in the teams open tryout in Canton.

Courtesy of www.cantonrep.com

Vipers shut down Energy, 134-108 - by Eurobasket News
It was a simple question that had no easy solution.

Thats the kind of challenge Rio Grande Valley Vipers guard, Terrell Harris (6'5''-G-87, college: Oklahoma St.), loves and he delivered in a big way after coach Nick Nurse asked him:

You want to take him?

The subject in question was Iowa Energy's Ehambe Moses Randall (6'6''-G/F-86, college: ORU), who helped engineer a comeback after his team had fallen behind by 16 points in the first half. Ehambe had 17 points on 7 of 15 shooting and the Vipers didnt have an answer for him at the time.

Harris began locking down on Ehambe with about two minutes left in the first half. Ehambe finished with 18 points and missed all three of his shots in the second half, and that was one of the reasons why the Vipers were able to run away with a 134-108 victory over Iowa on Wednesday at State Farm Arena.

It was a personal challenge, Harris said. (Nurse) challenged everybody on the team to step up on him. He was scoring at will. It was a personal-slash-team challenge for us.

Ehambe, along with the Energys Jarrid Famous (6'11''-F/C-88, college: S.Florida), teamed for Iowas big comeback.

The Vipers (3-0) led 32-16 at the 2:59 mark of the first quarter. Ehambe and Famous combined for 25 points over the next 13 minutes that helped the Energy (1-2) take a 56-55 lead with 1:50 left in the second quarter. Famous scored 13 points and had several big rebounds during that span.

I challenged our big guys to keep Famous off the glass because he was killing us, and four of our wing guys on (Ehambe) to say, you guys have to take this personally because they are killing us. They good a good job, led by Terrel.

Ehambe hit a 3-pointer with 2:23 left in the second quarter that pulled the Energy to 55-54. Shortly after, Nurse issued his request to Harris.

No space, Harris said of how he defended Ehambe. Focus a little more on him instead of help-side defense. Whenever he catches it, dont let him shoot it. Make him drive. He was feeling comfortable. Hes a shooter. Im a shooter, so I know you have to get him out of his comfort zone.

Nurse, who coached at Iowa the previous four seasons before coming to the Valley, was certainly familiar with Ehambe. It was no mystery that he was hurting the Vipers in the first half.

I went into the game hoping he wouldnt get any shots, and then he had 15 shots in the first half, Nurse said of Ehambe. Hes as good a shooter in this league as there is because of all the different dimensions that he brings.

The game remained tight until the middle of the third quarter. The Vipers went on a 20-7 run in the final 6:30 of the third quarter to take a 96-82 lead heading into the final quarter. The Energy never got closer than 12 after that.

Harris and Kelvin Lewis (6'4''-G-88, college: Houston) led the Vipers with 21 points apiece. Tyren Johnson, the Vipers first-round pick had 20 points. It was the second solid outing for Johnson, who was the target of some criticism by Nurse in the preseason for getting off to a slow start. With his 20 points Wednesday and 18 against Erie on Saturday, he seems be catching up.

I was feeling good, Johnson said. Im getting comfortable, and Im still getting adjusted after playing European basketball. Im taking it step by step. I just want to let the game come to me and not force stuff.

Famous had game highs 33 points and 15 rebounds for the Energy. Nick Murphy had 18 points.

The Vipers and Energy play at 7 oclock Thursday. The Vipers begin a three-game road trip beginning Sunday at Bakersfield.

Courtesy of www.themonitor.com

66ers cruise past Texas - by Eurobasket News
Marcus Lewis (6'8''-F/C-86, college: ORU) scored a game-high 19 points, Dwight Buycks (6'3''-PG-89, college: Marquette) added 13 points and a team-high four assists and the Tulsa 66ers downed the Texas Legends 97-84 Wednesday at Dr Pepper Arena in Frisco, Texas.

In the first of six matchups between the Western Conference foes this season, Tulsa (3-0) led Texas by as many as 23 points.

Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) added 16 points for Tulsa, and Brady Morningstar scored a season-high 11.

Keys: Tulsa held Texas to 31-of-82 (.378) shooting overall, including 1-of-15 (.067) from beyond the arc. The 66ers also forced 19 Legends turnovers and recorded a season-high six blocked shots.

Notes: Tulsa held its third straight opponent to under 90 points. ... Texas fell to 0-2.

Up next: At Austin, 8 p.m. Friday.

Next home game: 7 p.m. Saturday vs. Austin.

Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

Bighorns win first game of the season - by Eurobasket News
The Reno Bighorns took a 99-95 victory over the Los Angeles D-Fenders on Wednesay in Los Angeles for their first win of the season.

Zach Graham (6'6''-G-89, college: Mississippi) led the Bighorns with 22 points and nine rebounds off the bench and Blake Ahearn (6'2''-PG-84, college: Missouri St.) added 19 points, five assists and four rebounds. Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, agency: Interperformances, college: UAB) led all players with 23 points for the D-Fenders. The win was the first for head coach Paul Mokeski with the Bighorns and the first under the ownership of Bighorns Basketball, LLC.

Nick Fazekas (6'11''-F-85, college: Nevada) shot the ball effectively, going 4-for-4 from the field and 3-for-3 from the free throw line for 11 points and grabbing five rebounds. McCullough returned to the starting lineup for the Bighorns, scoring 15 points on 6-of-8 shooting.

Five Bighorns finished in double figures.

'We had a great practice yesterday and fixed some things for tonight's game,' Fazekas said. 'Congratulations to Coach Mokeski for his first win. It feels good to get this monkey off of our backs.'

The Bighorns were down 44-47 at halftime, but outscored the D-Fenders 28-14 in the third quarter to take a commanding lead. Los Angeles would cut the lead to one point in the final minute, but the Bighorns used careful clock management and ball control to finish out the game.

The Bighorns will play their first home game in Reno on Friday against the Bakersfield Jam at 7 p.m. The first 1,000 fans in the door will receive a free long-sleeve Bighorns t-shirts.

Courtesy of www.rgj.com

Erie Bay Hawks bring in B.J. Jenkins - by Eurobasket News
Erie Bay Hawks strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with B.J. Jenkins (6'0''-G-88, college: Murray St.). The guard will enter his first pro season with the Bay Hawks. B.J. Jenkins graduated from Murray State University in 2011. He tallied 11.0 points, 3.5 boards, 3.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game in his senior season. B.J. Jenkins made it onto All-OVC 2nd Team. He was also named into NABC Division I All-District 19 1st Team.

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

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

La Matica tied the finals in la vega 1-1 to la Villa - by Kerwin Abreu
La Vega: Regional League is on the Finals now, La Matica defeated La Villa 98-95 and now the series is tied 1-1. La Matica maintained the early lead the got in the first quarter, losing the third and fourth was not a deep problem.

Jose Guitian (207-F-87, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Lasell) and Alejandro Salas Flores (204-F-81, college: E.Oklahoma St. JC) nettled 4 free trows and that was all.

The best in the winning cause was Joel Ramirez with 24 points and 8 asists. Jose Guitian 21 points and 11 rebounds. Alex Salas 20 points and 11 rebounds. Edison Esquea 20 points and 10 rebounds.

In the lost: Ollie Bailey (201-F-85, college: Oklahoma City) 27 points and 7 rebounds. Jose Olivero (186-G-85, college: Lehigh) 28 points and 6 asists. Jack M. Martinez 23 points and 13 rebounds.

La Matica outrebounded la Villa 44-34. Also la Matica was better in assists with 10 to 9.

Now the series is tied 1-1 and it will continue this Friday at 8:00 p.m. at Fernando Teruel Arena in la Vega.

For more: Log on www.masterdeportes.com

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

EUROCHALLENGE

Dagli's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old power forward Ersin Dagli (204-F/C-81, agency: Interperformances) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Besiktas and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4.
He had a double-double of 20 points and 14 rebounds, while his team beat Leiden (#3, 1-3) 76-69. It allowed Besiktas to consolidate first place in the group B. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. The season is still on an early stage, but Besiktas already had a very good start winning all 4 without losing a single one. Dagli turned to be Besiktas' top player in his first season with the team. Ersin Dagli averages this season 12.3ppg and 7.0rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-C-83) of league's second-best BK Prostejov. He is American center in his 2nd season at BK Prostejov. In the last game Gadri-Nicholson recorded impressive double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds. Of course he lead BK Prostejov to another comfortable win 78-64 over Hoverla (#4, 0-4) being unquestionably team leader. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the top position in group C. BK Prostejov consolidated its place in top 2 of the standings. His team's 3-1 record is not bad at all. Gadri-Nicholson is well-known at BK Prostejov and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to forward David Lawrence (200-F-85) of U.Mobitel.CN (#3). Lawrence showcased his all-around game by recording 14 points, ten rebounds and four assists in the last round. Despite Lawrence's great performance U.Mobitel.CN lost 74-83 to #2 ranked Chalon. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. U.Mobitel.CN can only dream about fighting for top spots in group E. They have rather bad season and 1-3 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Lawrence he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Lawrence has a very solid season. In 4 games in EuroChallenge he scored 9.3ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Mouhamed Sene (213-C-86) of Fuenlabrada - 22 points and 2 rebounds
5. Michal Ignerski (207-F-80) of N.Novgorod - 22 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Shawn Ray (194-SF-80) of Etha - 19 points and 10 rebounds
7. Javier Vega (205-C-88) of Fuenlabrada - 25 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Zvonko Buljan (206-F-87) of Telekom Baskets - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Teddy Gipson (193-G-80) of Pau-Lacq-Orthez - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Denis Clemente (185-PG-86) of Nitra - 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists

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

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

EUROCUP

Cibona promotes Danijel Lutz as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Despite yesterday's reports in Croatian media that Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency) is close to take over the team as Head Coach, that will not happen. Cibona officially announced that they negotiated with Repesa, but were not able to agree a deal. At the same time, Cibona promotes Daniel Lutz as the new Head Coach. Lutz worked as Assistant Coach so far. Cibona will play against Cedevita next Saturday. After that, they will host Donestk in EuroCup. Two days ago, Cibona faced with huge defeat in Donetsk. Lutz led the team from the bench as interim HC. He will make debut as new HC against Cedevita. Yesterday, Jasmin Repesa (agency: World Sport Agency ) was also linked with the Croatian NT.

Nik Caner-Medley gets MVP of the Week award for - by Eurobasket News
American Nik Caner-Medley (203-F-83, agency: Priority Sports) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Valencia and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 3.
The 28-year old forward had the game-high 27 points adding four rebounds for Valencia in his team's victory, helping them to beat Lukoil Academik (2-1) 72-64. Valencia is placed at 2nd position in Eurocup group D. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost that single game earlier this season. Valencia will need more victories to improve their 2-1 record. In the team's last game Caner-Medley had a remarkable 80.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Valencia's top player in his first season with the team. University of Maryland graduate has very impressive stats this year. Caner-Medley is in league's top in points (6th best: 18.7ppg) and averages solid 70.4% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 29-year old American swingman Ricky Minard (196-F/G-82) of Azovmash. Minard impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Azovmash lost that game 66-71 to Krka (2-1). The season is still at the very beginning and this lost game may not be such crucial, of course if they start win the games. Let's wait for the next round. Minard is a newcomer at Azovmash and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.2ppg (#5). He also registered 4.6 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was former international forward Miro Bilan (212-F-89) of second-ranked Cedevita. Bilan scored 19 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite Bilan's great performance Cedevita lost 86-87in overtime to #4 ranked Benetton TV. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The chances of Cedevita not to end season at such low position in group G, however are less than slim as they have already lost 2 games, recording just one victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Bilan could try to bring Cedevita's a little bit higher in the standings. Bilan has a very solid season. In 5 games in Eurocup he scored 6.4ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ali Traore (207-C-85) of Lokomotiv - 17 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Ramel Curry (192-G-80) of BC Donetsk - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78) of PAOK - 18 points and 4 assists
7. Jason Dourisseau (196-G-83) of Groningen - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) of Khimky - 20 points and 6 rebounds
9. J.R. Giddens (196-G-85) of PAOK - 10 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Viacheslav Kravtsov (211-C-87) of BC Donetsk - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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

EUROLEAGUE

Round Seven: Exciting Wednesday - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A

Gescrap BB - Nancy 97-75
Valuable home win for Bilbao in Round Seven of the Eurolegaue regular season. The Spanish team celebrated 97-75 victory joining Nancy with 3-4 record in Group A. Nancy was better than Bilbao in Round Two with 'only' 87-73. Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) led the hosts in scoring with 15 points. Janis Blums (190-G-82) and Marko Banic (205-F-84) helped with 12 points each. On the other side, Jamal Shuler (191-G-86) had 19 and Adrien Moerman (203-F/C-88) netted 16 pts. Third scorer in Nancy was Akinlolu Akingbala (208-C-83, college: Clemson) with 9 points (5 rebs). There was no Nicolas Batum in Nancy's roster as the NBA lockout is over. Bilbao shined in the second half to win this game with comfortable 97-75. Quarters: 22-22, 18-17, 29-23, 28-13. In the next round, Bilbao will host Cantu. Nancy will meet Fenerbahce Ulker also at home.

Bilbao: Alex Mumbru 15, Janis Blums 12, Marko Banic 12
Nancy: Jamal Shuler 19, Adrien Moerman 16, Akinlolu Akingbala 9+5 boards

GROUP B

Brose Baskets - CSKA 78-81
CSKA Moscow kept the perfect score after seven games of the Euroleague regular season. The Russian powerhouse grabbed 78-81 victory in Bamberg on Wednesday night thanks to buzzer beater triple by Milos Teodosic (195-G-87). Of course, the Moscow team stays No.1 in Group B and they already booked a spot for Top 16. Brose Baskets slipped to 2-5 after this meeting. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) top-scored in CSKA with 20 points, while Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Alexey Shved (5 rebs) and a game hero Milos Teodosic (5 as) had 14 and 12 points respectively. For the hosts, Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, college: San Diego St.) netted 21 points. Anthony Leon Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) (6 rebs) and Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) had 11 and 10 points. Quarters: 18-25, 19-19, 25-23, 16-14. CSKA Moscow waits Zagreb next week, while Brose Baskets will travel to Malaga.

Brose Baskets: Marcus Slaughter 21, Anthony Leon Tucker 11+6 boards, Anton Gavel 10
CSKA: Nenad Krstic 20, Viktor Khryapa 19+7 boards+5 as, Alexey Shved 14+5 boards, Milos Teodosic 12+5 as

Zalgiris - Unicaja 67-65
Zalgiris is alive. They grabbed 67-65 home victory against Unicaja on Wednesday night joining Brose Baskets and Zagreb with 2-5 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. At the same time, Unicaja dropped to 3-4 record in this pool. Free throws by Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and a dunk by Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) allowed Zalgiris to win the game, as Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) missed a shot in the game's final possession. His driving shot hit the rim seconds before the final buzzer. Weems led the hosts with double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Marko Popovic and Ty Lawson (180-PG-87, college: N.Carolina) helped with 11 and 10 points respectively. In Unicaja, Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) collected 15 points and 6 rebs. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) (9 rebs) and Kristaps Valters (6 as) stopped to 12 points each. Quarters: 19-11, 16-13, 15-18, 17-23. Zalgiris waits Panathinaikos in the next round. Unicaja will host Brose Baskets.

Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 18+11 boards, Marko Popovic 11, Ty Lawson 10
Unicaja: Gerald Fitch 15+6 boards, Joel Freeland 12+9 boards, Kristaps Valters 12+6 as

Panathinaikos - KK Zagreb CO 94-76
Panathinaikos jumped to 5-2 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. The defending champion was too strong for Zagreb once again, 94-76. Croatian champ dropped to 2-5 in this pool. Visitors managed to resists during the first 20 minutes, actually having plus one at the HT, but PAO took control on them after that celebrating comfortable win at the end. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) dominated under the basket collecting 18 points and 9 rebounds. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) and Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) scored 13 pts each, and Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) (5 rebs) added one less. In the loosing squad, Damir Mulaomerovic (195-G-74, agency: FCM) netted 18 points. Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85) had 15 points and 6 rebs, and Sean May (203-F/C-84, college: N.Carolina) had double-double of 12 points and 10 rebs. NBAer T.J. Ford (178-PG-83, college: Texas) scored 12 pts for Zagreb and he was their most valuable player with valuation 17. Quarters: 24-22, 24-27, 23-13, 23-14. PAO goes to Kaunas next week. Zagreb will meet CSKA in Moscow.

Panathinaikos: Mike Batiste 18+9 boards, David Logan 13, Nick Calathes 13, Romain Sato 12+5 boards
Zagreb: Damir Mulaomerovic 18, Krunoslav Simon 15+6 boards, Sean May 12+10 boards, T.J. Ford 12

GROUP C

Spirou Charleroi - Anadolu Efes 62-66
Anadolu Efes did a great job in Charleroi on Wednesday night. The Turkish squad grabbed 62-66 victory against the Belgian champ for 4-3 record in Group C of the Euroleague regular season. With this victory, Efes drastically increased its changes to reach the Top 16. On the other side, Charleroi dropped to 1-6 and still closes the standings in this pool. Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) paced Anadolu Efes to this important win collecting 16 points and 10 rebounds. He was the MVP with valuation 22. Stanko Barac (217-C-86) had 12 points and 5 rebs, while Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) netted 10 pts. In defeat, Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) delivered 21 points. Their second scorers were Andre Riddick (208-C-73, college: Kentucky) (10 rebs) and Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.) with 9 points each. Charleroi came to minus 5 with 34 seconds to go, but a ball-handling violation on Green doomed the home teams chances. And Vujacic iced the win from the line. Quarters: 14-18, 8-19, 21-15, 19-14. Anadolu Efes will host Armani Jeans Milano in the next round. Charleroi will play against Partizan in another home game.

Charleroi: Demond Mallet 21, Andre Riddick 9+10 boards, Christopher Hill 9
Anadolu Efes: Dusko Savanovic 16+10 boards, Stanko Barac 12+5 boards, Sasha Vujacic 10

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mirza TELETOVIC
  Caja L.
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 22

1. Teletovic, Caja L.	22.0
2. Spanoulis, Olympia.	19.3
3. McCalebb, Montepa.	17.9
4. Weems, Zalgiris	17.9
5. Domercant, Unics	17.4
6. Carroll, Real Madr.	16.9
7. Gallinari, Armani	16.4
8. Mallet, Spirou	16.4
9. Macvan, Partizan	16.3
10. Banic, Gescrap BB	16.1

Rebounds Per Game

Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 9

1. Kirilenko, CSKA	9.0
2. Macvan, Partizan	7.9
3. May, KK.	7.8
4. Freeland, Unicaja	7.1
5. Akingbala, Nancy	6.8
6. Batum, Nancy	6.7
7. Motiejunas, Asseco	6.7
8. Heytvelt, KK Za.	6.6
9. Moerman, Nancy	6.6
10. Slaughter, Brose	6.4

Assists Per Game

Marcelinho HUERTAS
  FCB Regal
  (191-PG-83)
  Avg: 5.6

1. Huertas, FCB Regal	5.6
2. Rodriguez, Real M.	5.6
3. Rice, Lietuvos.	5.3
4. Diamantidis, Panat.	5.3
5. Batum, Nancy	5.2
6. Teodosic, CSKA	5.1
7. Spanoulis, Olympia.	4.9
8. Blassingame, Assec.	4.9
9. Linehan, Nancy	4.6
10. Prigioni, Caja L.	4.4

Steals Per Game

Tarence KINSEY
  Anadolu .
  (200-G-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Kinsey, Anadolu	2.7
2. Prigioni, Caja L.	2.3
3. Kirilenko, CSKA	2.2
4. Sefolosha, Fener.U.	2.1
5. Eidson, FCB Regal	2.0
6. Pumprla, CEZ N.	2.0
7. Lafayette, Asseco	1.9
8. Slaughter, Brose B.	1.9
9. Batum, Nancy	1.7
10. Diamantidis, Pana.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Kirilenko, CSKA	3.2
2. Ibaka, Real Madrid	2.0
3. Riddick, Spirou	1.9
4. Vazquez, FCB Regal	1.6
5. Perovic, FCB Regal	1.5
6. Zoric, Unicaja	1.3
7. Slaughter, Brose B.	1.3
8. Kinsey, Anadolu	1.3
9. Valanciunas, Lietu.	1.3
10. Begic, Real Madrid	1.2

Standings

Euroleague Standings

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

Real Madrid officially signs Kyle Singler - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid officially announced signing of Kyle Singler (203-F-88, college: Duke) for rest of the season. The rookie forward arrives from Alicante. Singler decided to stay in Spain this season, despite the NBA lockout is over. He appeared 9 times in Liga Endesa with Alicante averaging 15 points and 3.6 rebounds. Kyle Singler is a product of Duke University, where he graduated this year. He had 16.9 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.6 apg for his school as a senior. Singler helped Duke to win the NCAA title in 2010. He had 17.7 ppg, 7 rpg and 2.4 apg in 40 games that season. The Detroit Pistons selected Singler as 33rd overall pick at the latest NBA draft. Singler will play his last game with Alicante in the Spanish League this weekend and he will move to Madrid starting next week.

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

FINLAND

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Kataja		12-3
2. Nilan Bisons		10-3
3. Kauhajoki		10-5
4. Pyrinto		8-4
5. ToPo		8-6
6. Kouvot		7-7
7. LrNMKY		6-8
8. Korihait		6-9
9. Salon Vilpas		5-10
10. KTP		4-10
11. Namika Lahti		2-13

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Martin ZENO
  Nilan Bisons
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 23

1. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	23.0
2. Blue, KTP	21.1
3. Holloway, Salon V.	20.7
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	19.5
5. Williams, Pyrinto	19.3
6. Newson, Kataja	19.2
7. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	18.8
8. Brooks, Namika L.	18.8
9. Tiedeman, LrNM.	17.6
10. Griffin, ToPo	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 14.1

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	14.1
2. Blue, KTP	11.0
3. Beidler, Kauhajoki	9.2
4. Newson, Kataja	8.9
5. McDade, Nilan B.	8.8
6. Hairston, Salon V.	8.7
7. Williams, Pyrinto	8.6
8. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	8.5
9. Nikkila, Pyrinto	8.2
10. Heard, ToPo	7.5

Assists Per Game

Petri VIRTANEN
  Kataja
  (183-G-80)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Virtanen, Kataja	5.1
2. Williams, Pyrinto	4.9
3. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	4.5
4. Haynes, LrNM.	4.1
5. Walker, Kataja	4.0
6. Sarcevic, KTP	3.9
7. Hannah, Kauhajoki	3.9
8. Nikkarinen, Kouvot	3.4
9. Vuori, Kauhajoki	3.2
10. Holloway, Salon V.	3.1

Steals Per Game

Antwine WILLIAMS
  Pyrinto
  (192-F-75)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Williams, Pyrinto	2.8
2. Sten, Kataja	2.5
3. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.5
4. Moore, Korihait	2.4
5. Newson, Kataja	2.2
6. Sarcevic, KTP	2.0
7. Haynes, LrNM.	1.9
8. Holloway, Salon V.	1.7
9. Jordan, Kouvot	1.7
10. Brooks, Namika L.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	2.7
2. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.0
3. Hairston, Salon V.	1.3
4. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	1.1
5. Blue, KTP	0.9
6. Jones, Nilan Bisons	0.9
7. Nikkila, Pyrinto	0.8
8. Price, Kataja	0.8
9. McDade, Nilan B.	0.8
10. Bell, KTP	0.7

KORISLIIGA: Jared Newson The Player of November - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Finnish Basketball Association has named American Jared Newson (195-G/F-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Tenn-Martin) The Player of November. Newson led his team Kataja (Joensuu) into 7-0 record last month averaging 21,0 ppg - 10,4 rpg - 2,3 spg - 1,7 apg in 38,7 mpg. Newson was shooting with high accuracy: 1 - 79,4%, 2 - 53,2% and 3 - 54,5%. Newson is playing his second season in Finland and Kataja. Last season Newson averaged 17,6 ppg - 6,9 rpg in 35:08 mpg and 55 games. Kataja is on the top of the league right now with 12-3 record. The Player of October was American sharpshooter Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.) (Bisons, Loimaa).

KORISLIIGA: Amal McCaskill next to Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga (Top League) oldest and tallest player will be soon American Center Amal McCaskill. McCaskill and KTP Basket (Kotka) have agreed and signed a contract for the rest of this season. McCaskill, 38, 211 cm, 107 kg, will join soon KTP roster, where Americans Tim Blue and Tony Crocker have recently been the key players. After college years at Marquette University McCaskill was drafted by Orlando Magic (NBA) in 1996 (Round 2, pick 49). McCaskill played four seasons and 114 games in four NBA teams (Orlando, San Antonio, Atlanta and Philadelphia) averaging 1,8 ppg - 1,9 rpg. McCaskill has played pro basketball also in Greece, Spain, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Italy, Lebanon, Philippines and in South Korea.

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

FRANCE

Bilbao hands 97-75 loss to Nancy - by Eurobasket News
Gescrap BB - Nancy 97-75

Valuable home win for Bilbao in Round Seven of the Eurolegaue regular season. The Spanish team celebrated 97-75 victory joining Nancy with 3-4 record in Group A. Nancy was better than Bilbao in Round Two with 'only' 87-73. Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) led the hosts in scoring with 15 points. Janis Blums (190-G-82) and Marko Banic (205-F-84) helped with 12 points each. On the other side, Jamal Shuler (191-G-86) had 19 and Adrien Moerman (203-F/C-88) netted 16 pts. Third scorer in Nancy was Akinlolu Akingbala (208-C-83, college: Clemson) with 9 points (5 rebs). There was no Nicolas Batum in Nancy's roster as the NBA lockout is over. Bilbao shined in the second half to win this game with comfortable 97-75. Quarters: 22-22, 18-17, 29-23, 28-13. In the next round, Bilbao will host Cantu. Nancy will meet Fenerbahce Ulker also at home.

Bilbao: Alex Mumbru 15, Janis Blums 12, Marko Banic 12
Nancy: Jamal Shuler 19, Adrien Moerman 16, Akinlolu Akingbala 9+5 boards

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

FYR MACEDONIA

Rilski grabs victory in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
BIBL, Round 4: Torus Skopje - Rilski Sportist 80-85

Rilski Sportist did a great job in Balkan league last night. The Bulgarian squad grabbed 80-85 road victory against Torus improving to 3-1 record in Group A of the regular season. At the same time, Torus dropped to 1-2 in this pool. The guests trailed by 14 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 5 points. Strangely Torus Skopje outrebounded Rilski Sportist 42-29 including 29 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 6 assists and Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-F/C-83) who added 18 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. Four Rilski Sportist players scored in double figures. At the losing side FYR Macedonian-Bulgarian guard Dimitar Karadzovski (190-G-84, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded with 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and American power forward Justin Reynolds (204-F/C-88, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. Rilski Sportist will meet OKK Beograd on the road in the next round. Torus Skopje will play against the league's leader Galil Gilboa.

Torus Skopje: D.Karadzovski 20+7reb+4ast, J.Reynolds 17+12reb, P.Blazevski 13+3reb+2ast, G.Markovski 9+4reb+2ast, B.Krstevski 7+8reb, N.Karakolev 6+4reb+1ast
Rilski Sportist: B.Mirkovic 19+4reb+6ast, F.Vukosavljevic 18+7reb, M.Marinov 17+6reb+1ast, A.Bilobrk 15+4reb+1ast, S.Vaklinov 9+1reb, B.Boev 5+2reb+2ast

A Lot to catch up on... - by Brandon Cole
Wats up Eurobasket world!? Maaaaaaaaan, a whole lot has changed since my last blog entry at the beginning o the season, so I've got a lot to catch everybody up on, so I will get right into it. The last time I left you all, me and my team, KK Fersped-Rabotnicki Skopje, were riding high. We we were undefeated through the entire preseason schedule and defeated our rival Feni Indistrija Kavadarci for the prestigious SuperCup Championship. We were rolling and everything was in line as were had our eyes set on 2 things for this upcoming season: Another National Cup Championship and a record 15th Superleague Championship. Needless to say that since then, we have hit a few major bumps in the road and our road to championship glory so far hasn't gone as smoothly as planned.

The regular season action tipped off for us on October 15th and we were all set to kick off the year with a big win over KK Vardar Skopje at home. That didn;t happen however due to a monkey wrench in the plans. We apparently owed a hefty fine to the federation and some miscommunication was involved and we paid the penalty but it was right before the game appaerently. We paid the penalty in cash just hours before the game, but the KK Vardar Skopje team president caught wind of it, and during warmups before the televised game, he started raising hell, saying that we didn't go through the proper channels in regards to paying the fine etc, and he and his team walked out! The Federation reviewed it, and judged that WE technically didn't pay the penalty in the correct manner (bank transaction) and held up the decision as a forfeit for us! WOOOOOOOOOOOW!!! THE CASE IS CURRENTLY UNDER APPEAL AS WE SPEAK AND i AM BEING TOLD THAT There is a chance that WE WILL replay the game at a later date and the decision will be reversed. Time will tell. Thats just the beginning of our troubles however.

So after that initial debacle, we have a home game in against the defending League champs (whom KK Fersped-Rabotnicki Skopje lost to in the finals last season) Feni, whom we just beat for the SuperCup title. This was a huge game that we definitely needed to get the taste out of our mouths from the KK Vardar Skopje situation. Bad thing is, our FANS, who our like our 6th man) were suspended from the first 2 home games due to some incidents that occured late last season so we have to play 1 of our 2 biggest rivals in front of an empty arena: HOW IN THE HELL DO YOU SUSPEND THE FANS!? LOL, that is crazy. So we are playing and making a run after getting down early, and things just keep getting worse. Our National Team Point guard/Captain Dimitar Mirakovski goes down right before halftime with an ACL injury! Are u serious!? After he went down, guys could not quite focus because we were all worried about if Dimitar was going to be ok. We tied the game up a few times and even got the lead for a slight second, but couldn't hold on and Feni pulled away in the 4th quarter to get the big win. After that things just wouldn't get right for us....We then played MZT at their gym (in front of an empty arena AGAIN, because THEIR fans were suspended for some incidents as well) and we made a true game effort and should've won the game but once again, let them pull away at the end with our own silly mistakes and get the win. The losses just kept piling up after that, with only a 3 point home win against ABA Strumica to stop the bleeding (but it didn't feel like a win at all because we played terribly and should've beaten that team by at least 20 points). We lost a tough road game against Kumanovo in front of a packed house of 6000 plus fans, the place was definitely rockin, and the refs must've have felt the pressure from those crazy fans ( who were starting bon fires in the stands etc) because they just straight up CHEATED us out of soooooo many obvious calls it was ridiculous. Then after that followed 2 more losses to Torus and Liria. It was definitely time for a change.

The entire season I had really felt under used in my role. Despite me already showing my dominance in this league 2 years ago, the coach here was determined to make me a role player on offense basically and just wanted me to do pick and rolls and wasn't really calling a lot of plays for me. The President ( whom I am very close with and played for 2 seasons ago with another team here in Macedonia), my agent and myself were all dissatisfied with the way that i was being used. The schemes we were using on offense and defense were'nt working and our coacc was probably the most negative coach i've played for (next to my first coach in China). All he would do everyday in practice was yell at the Macedonian guys and tear them down and would do the same in games. Always throwing stuff, breaking stuff, and constanttly screaming and it really affected the teams morale. Given our situation and how the season started with the forfeit, the injury and not to mention the influx of about 5 new players through out the season so far joining the team, the last thing we needed was somebody steady stressing us out all the time and creating negative energy around us. I had voiced my opinion somewhat on my situation, but the home game against Liria was the last strwa. After we got a few new quality players added to the team, we lost again to Torus. The next game against Liria, the coach decided to take ME, of all people out of teh starting lineup!, LOL, i couldn't believe it. Even though i was being underused i felt, doesn't mean i was playing bad. I was playing great and all my shooting percentages were high and my defense and rebounding were always solid. So instead of making changes somewhere else, he decides to blame the American (which is quite common overseas). I was shocked, but not as much as the President. He was upset that he had invested so much in me to come here and was not being used properly....keep in mind he KNOWS what i can do because i played for him before. Of course we are down 20 at halftime, and he pulled me aside in the hallway and asks me what is going on and why I wasn't starting? I replied, ' Your guess is as good as mine, this coach is crazy! I can't play for him any more man, and the rest of the guys feel the same, we need a change if we're gonna get outta this situation.' Needless to say we lost that game, even though we came all the way back with me coming off the bench making a major defensive contribution to our comeback, and he was fired after the game.

Now in comes the new coach, who is like night and day from the previous one. He is calm, cool, positive and an all around Players coach. He gives us freedom to make mistakes and confidence to do our thing. Our first game with him at the helm, we go on the road against Kozuv Gergelija and their INSANE gym of 3500 plus screaming fans. We are down 20 points in the 3rd quarter. The refs are cheating us like never before, and trust me I am not being biased or imagining things...they were blatantly ignoring 24 shot clock violations, travels, fouls etc from the other team, and if we even BREATHED on them it was a foul and if we even looked at the ball on offense they called a travel. It was one of the most frustrating games i had ever been a part of and it reached its boiling point late in the 3rd quarter. I had pulled a ref aside and asked him, ' Could you PLEASE stop cheating us!? They are already up 18-20 points, could you please just call the game fair? You don't have to give us special treatment, just call it fair is all i ask, they are hammering us every time down court and you are calling nothing. The foul differential speaks for itself, just be fair is all i ask.' He looked at me with a smug face and replied, ' I think we have a good staff here today, we are doing all we can.' That really ticked me off but i let it go. 2 minutes after that conversation, i get the ball on the low block and go to make my move, and get elbowed right in my forehead by one defender and get my arm pulled by another. I throw up a wild hook shot and fall down, blood is pouring from my head all onto the floor.......NO FOUL CALLED!!! Are you serious? I ran directly to the ref whom i had just spoken to and start going off! Cussing at him, yelling at him, pointing to the gash on my forehead with blood leaking all on my face etc. I can't even repeat the stuff that i was saying, but i was in his face for about a minute straight yelling at him and honestly was THIS CLOSE to doing something stupid and putting hands on him, thats how angry i was! To his credit, he didn't compound the mistake he made by giving me a tech and let me get my point across. He seemed almost scared and seemed like he realized his mistake and that he and his crew had taken this 'cheating' entirely too far. The crowd was going nuts, i couldn't even hear myself anymore. My teammate Boban got 2 technicals from the bench and was thrown out of the game coming to my defense. Our President came out of the stands 4 separate times and had to be held back from getting onto the court to state his case, the place was out of control. I had come to the bench for a minute to get treatment and ran back on the court to berate another ref who had looked at me the wrong way ( he was the main one cheating us really and was really getting under my skin) and i received a tech FINALLY, LOL! The game was delayed at least 7-8 mins with all the chaos going on. At the end we were down 20 points to start the 4th quarter with no hope in sight.

But something happened....the calm demeanor of coach got us refocused on the task at hand, we started to play some real defense, shots started to fall....and we came back down 20 points in the 4th quarter, on the road, through all the cheating and chaos, to win the game by 1! One of the most satisfying wins I've been a part of in my entire career and i had to sit most of the 4th due to my injury. Their fans were NOT pleased at all...the riot squad was out in full force and we needed them. They started throwing beer bottles, pop bottles, lighters, coins etc at us as soon as the buzzer sounded. 1 pop bottle flew right by my face and i couldn't believe it! We then had to be rushed back to the locker rooms in fear of the crowd rushing the court, it was crazy, and exciting at the same time. We couldn't leave for our bus for over an hour because the police had to try to clear the outside perimeter so the fans wouldn't attack us going to the bus. We finally made it out and onto the bus where the fans were waiting for us down the road and threw rocks at the bus and yelled obscenities etc, but it didn't matter, we were off to the sunset with a much needed win and a newfound swagg! Since then we won a hard fought overtime road game to KK Vardar Skopje and lost a close road game to Feni. We have been playing a lot better and the team morale and psyche has done a complete 180. Next up this weekend is the big derby rematch against MZT in front of our home fans and the place is gonna be crazy this sunday, i can't wait. We need this win bad and if we cut down on our silly mistakes and not dig ourselves an early hole like we have been prone to do, we should be fine. We will find out this weekend. Well, glad i got everybody caught up on everything and thanks for reading as always. Until next time, be safe, be cool, and be easy ya'll.

p.s. Wanna send a special R.I.P. message to my former teammate and friend Sam Carey (203-F-84) who died a couple of weeks back in a car accident. My prayers are with you and your family bro, and we all are gonna miss ya fam!

Also wanna shout out my guys Justin Griffin (194-G/F-83, college: Hawaii-Hilo) and Porter Troupe (196-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Portland), get at me fools! TRINITY!!!

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

GERMANY

Michael Meeks New Head Coach For BG Goettingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Before the season started, it was apparent that nothing would come easy for BG Goettingen after the departure of John Patrick and many players, but few would have thought that BG Goettingen would start so slow at 1-9. Today the club announced that head coach Stefan Mienack had been relieved of his duties and replaced with assistant coach Michael Meeks (207-C/F-72, agency: Interperformances, college: Canisius). Meeks can look back at a long playing career that ended last season with BG Goettingen and now he jumps on a sinking ship trying to save everything. 'We didnt have any other option with the current situation. Our goal is staying in the league and we cant lose that focus. Stefan Mienack was our wish candidate before the season and this wasnt any easy decision. We want to thank him for everything since he has done a lot for Goettingen basketball. We wish him the best for the future', stressed manager MarcFranz. ' Stefan Mienack achieved a lot for our long term goal. However a coach is measured by his success. We cant say much positive with one win in 14 games. Stefan worked very hard and if everyone had worked as hard as him, then the club wouldnt be in this position', stressed BG Goettingen sport director Jan Schiecke. Mienack had been assistant coach with BG Goettingen since 2008 before coming head coach in 2011. Meeks played at Canisius from 1992-1996. He played professional basketball from 1996-2011 playing in countries like Italy, Turkey, Germany, France, Russia, Croatia, Czech Republic and Belgium. He was a member of the Canadian national team taking part at the 2000 summer Olympics in Sydney and being the fifth best scorer in the tournament. He also played at the 2002 World championships in Indianapolis and won the 2010 Eurochallenge with BG Goettingen.

Source: BG Goettingen

CSKA Moscow stays unbeaten in Euroleague - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets - CSKA 78-81

CSKA Moscow kept the perfect score after seven games of the Euroleague regular season. The Russian powerhouse grabbed 78-81 victory in Bamberg on Wednesday night thanks to buzzer beater triple by Milos Teodosic (195-G-87). Of course, the Moscow team stays No.1 in Group B and they already booked a spot for Top 16. Brose Baskets slipped to 2-5 after this meeting. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) top-scored in CSKA with 20 points, while Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Alexey Shved (5 rebs) and a game hero Milos Teodosic (5 as) had 14 and 12 points respectively. For the hosts, Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, college: San Diego St.) netted 21 points. Anthony Leon Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) (6 rebs) and Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) had 11 and 10 points. Quarters: 18-25, 19-19, 25-23, 16-14. CSKA Moscow waits Zagreb next week, while Brose Baskets will travel to Malaga.

Brose Baskets: Marcus Slaughter 21, Anthony Leon Tucker 11+6 boards, Anton Gavel 10
CSKA: Nenad Krstic 20, Viktor Khryapa 19+7 boards+5 as, Alexey Shved 14+5 boards, Milos Teodosic 12+5 as

Ilian Evtimov (There Are Always Difficult Moments In Sports, But It Is Never Too Late To Turn It Around For The Fraport Skyliners) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) is a 28 year old 201 cm forward playing his second season in France for Chalon. He has the French-Bulgarian citzenships and played at North Carolina State from 2001-2006. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 10.4ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.2spg, FG: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT. After a short stint with Estudiantes Madrid in 2006, he played at VidiVici Bologna in the 2006-2007 season. He played FIBA EuroCup playing 15 games averaging 6.3ppg, 2.4rpg, 2FGP: 65.4%, 3FGP: 47.1%, FT: 72.2%; and playing15 games in the Italian league averaging 3.1ppg, 2.1rpg. In 2007-2008, he moved to The Deutsche Bank Skyliners playing 10 ULEB Cup games averaging 14.5ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 85%; and in the German League playing 44 games averaging 13.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.1apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 41.4%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 86.2%. In 2008-2009, he continued playing in Frankfurt playing 10 EuroChallenge: games averaging 8.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 70.0%; and in the German League playing 34 games averaging 8.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 74.6%. In 2009-2010, he played for BC Levski Sophia (Bulgaria-NBL): 1 game: 6pts, 5reb, 2ast, 3steals; Balkan League: 1 game: 3pts, 1reb, 1ast, 2steals; in Oct.'09 moved to Proteas EKA AEL Limassol (Cyprus-Division EuroChallenge: 13 games: 10.9ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 45.6%, FT: 83.3%: FT-2 (90.9%). Last season, he played for Chalon playing 33 games: 11.6ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 50.5%, 3PT: 39.8%, FT: 84.2%. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.

What was your impression recently of ex Skyliner Eric Chadfield who is leading the French PRO A in scoring?

He is a good player that can shoot and really knows basketball. You notice that he is a real player and has been around for a while.

How did you experience the NBA lockout in France?

The NBA lockout was a good thing French for basketball. So many guys came back to play here from the NBA like Tony Parker and Nicolas Batum. This really helped bring media interest for basketball to a new level as it was more in the news.

How comfortable are you in Chalon?

I am very comfortable. I signed a three year deal last summer. We kept many guys and want to continue to build a successful team. We want to win titles.

What has been the key to success with Chalon?

Each guy knows its role and with 90% of the team back, all understand the mechanism of the offense.

You played against Asvel and Tony Parker losing by 23 points. Is Parker playing at 100%, or holding back a bit?

He was holding back a bit at the start, because he was trying to incorporate himself into the team. But now he is the Tony Parker that you see with the Spurs. We were leading by two points at halftime, but our defense slowed down in the second half, and its hard to play catchup against a Tony Parker.

What does Malcom Delaney bring to the table?

He is a great player with NBA potential. He has to learn that in Europe the best quality to have is winning games.

Is your role the same as last year?

Yes it is. Nothing has changed much. I am on the court to shoot the ball and play defense and hit my open looks.

Your ex teammate Greg Jenkins is also playing in France with Le Havre. What is going to be the first thing that you will say when you see him?

I will tell him who is going to win this game old Frankfurt boy.

What will you never forget from your ex teammate Marquez Haynes?

He is a great guy and was always a confident talker in the locker room. He was always cracking jokes. I read your interview with him and how he talked about my dunk against Roanne. We used to call him shorty, which he didnt like. He always got mad.

Haynes said you never dunk?

I just dunk at the big moments.

Who has been your best opponent in the French PRO A the last two years?

Dylan Page of Roanne. He is a position four player and is a great shooter. When he is hot, he is hard to stop and he can make all kinds of different shots.

How tough is it seeing your ex team Fraport Skyliners at 17th place?

There are always difficult moments in sports, but it is never too late to turn it around for the Fraport Skyliners. They have to stay positive and get on a winning streak.

Have you talked to Jimmy Mckinney about the situation?

Unfortunately I havent spoken to Jimmy in a while.

Your ex teammate Dominik Bahiense De Mello is playing for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg. What do you remember most about him?

He is a great and funny guy. I will always remember how I called him J.J Redick, because he has the same shot and when he gets hot, its hard to stop him.

Last summer you became a dad. Do you change the diapers?

I dont really change the diapers. I let my wife do it, but sometimes I do and I have no problem with it. Having a child is special and everything changes. He is watching my every step. He had his first shooting clinic, a day after his birth.

How will North Carolina State do this year in the NCAA?

They have a good team and will do well. They changed the coach and I am a big supporter of my school.

You are known as a movie buff. What movie tips do you have?

I recently saw Hang Over 2 and thought it was pretty funny. I recently saw Immortals which is a type of 300 or Gladiator movie. There is a lot of fighting and super powers theme in it.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Assassinating Games. It is with Jean Claude Van Damme. He is hired to kill people. He will be in a Sly Stallone movie soon.

Thanks Evti for the chat.

Update of first season overseas - by Corey Hassan
Whats up everyone. Christmas is right around the corner which means we are about halfway through the season. Right now we are struggling a bit with getting wins, but we are making steps in the right direction. It is tough for our team who has moved up 3 leagues in the past 4 years and we are constantly playing against teams with a full roster of professional players with years of experience. Coming into this season we had zero players with playing experience in Pro A. Lately we have been making steps in the right direction and hopefully we can pull together a few extra wins in the following weeks before break.
Although losing is never fun, especially being as competitive as I am, I am definitely enjoying my time over here. I love the fact that I am playing basketball for a living and honestly could not be more thankful. I definitely am putting in the extra work also trying to always improve while I am here. I feel like I have finally adjusted to the style of play and am starting to find my rythm. Taking a full year off from basketball last year it also took me a little bit to get back into the game flow. I am feeling confident with my game lately and I would loveeee to get a few more wins.
With Christmas time nearby a lot of Christmas markets have opened in the area and they are definitely something to see. We went to the Augsburg Christmas market this past week and it was amazing. It's impossible not to get excited for Christmas when strolling around there. Also a new Justin Bieber christmas song came out so on the radio over here it plays about 50000 times a day. Its all good though because the song is great. We're also going to check out the Friedburg and Neusas Christmas market on Saturday and than the Nordlingen Christmas Market next week. It should be a good time before heading back home for a week during Christmas. Kerri heads home on the 15th so were trying to get some last minute sight-seeing in before she heads out. I am looking forward to getting back to New Hampshire for a week to see my family and friends. It will be a good time for sure.
With all the free time we have over here I definitely have become a movie/TV buff and Kevin James is quickly becoming my all time favorite sitcom actor. I am also soooo thankful we get some college hoops on over here. Watched a bit of the Purdue Miami game last night.
Finally the big news, I got engaged this weekend! Kerri and I have been together for over 3 years now and i asked her to marry me in Landsberg, Germany. Easily one of the most nerve-wracking moments of my life! She said yesss and we're very excited. She has been looking at venues and researching non-stop this whole week. We are setting up appointments to see places when we get home during christmas break also. That's it for now though. Until next time, Merry Christmas!!

-Corey Hassan

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GREECE

A2 round 9 best performance: Vaggelis Sklavos - by Eurobasket News
Forward Vaggelis Sklavos (202-F-77) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for AEK, receiving a Eurobasket.com A2 Player of the Week award for round 9.
The 34-year old player had a double-double of 25 points and 11 rebounds, while his team edged out Periko/Arhelaos (#15, 3-6) 66-62. AEK maintains the 4th position in A2. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. AEK will need more victories to improve their 6-3 record. In the team's last game Sklavos had a remarkable three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be AEK's top player in his first season with the team. Vaggelis Sklavos has solid league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 8.3rpg) and averages impressive 40.9% from behind 3-point line.

The second best player in last round's games was 33-year old Irish Bryan Bracey (201-F-78, agency: Priority Sports) of Pagrati. Bracey had a very good evening with 26 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Bad luck as Pagrati lost that game 79-89 to the higher-ranked Lavrio (#5, 6-3). This loss caused Pagrati to drop to 13th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-6 record. Bracey is a newcomer at Pagrati, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was former international forward Andronikos Gizogiannis (200-F/C-83, agency: FCM) of Arkadikos (#8). Gizogiannis scored 29 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Gizogiannis' great performance Arkadikos lost 94-95in overtime to the higher-ranked Panelefsiniakos (#3, 7-2). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Arkadikos ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 5 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Gizogiannis could help Arkadikos to bring them higher in the standings. Gizogiannis has a great season in Greece. After only 9 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.6ppg (5th best) and rebounds with 7.3rpg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Dimitris Lolas (203-F-86) of Amyntas Dafnis - 11 points and 11 rebounds
5. Marko Pekovic (193-G-81) of Doxa Lefkadas - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Thomas Nikou (185-G-79) of Panelefsiniakos - 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Nikos Psileas (200-F-80) of Lavrio - 19 points and 7 rebounds
8. Spyros Magounis (200-G-85) of Panelefsiniakos - 25 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Filipp Simeonidis (204-F-80) of Ikaroi Serron - 18 points and 10 rebounds
10. Kostas Maglos (208-F/C-75) of AEK/Argous - 11 points and 14 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)

Panathinaikos beats Zagreb once again - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos - KK Zagreb CO 94-76

Panathinaikos jumped to 5-2 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. The defending champion was too strong for Zagreb once again, 94-76. Croatian champ dropped to 2-5 in this pool. Visitors managed to resists during the first 20 minutes, actually having plus one at the HT, but PAO took control on them after that celebrating comfortable win at the end. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) dominated under the basket collecting 18 points and 9 rebounds. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) and Nick Calathes (198-G-89, college: Florida) scored 13 pts each, and Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) (5 rebs) added one less. In the loosing squad, Damir Mulaomerovic (195-G-74, agency: FCM) netted 18 points. Krunoslav Simon (197-F-85) had 15 points and 6 rebs, and Sean May (203-F/C-84, college: N.Carolina) had double-double of 12 points and 10 rebs. NBAer T.J. Ford (178-PG-83, college: Texas) scored 12 pts for Zagreb and he was their most valuable player with valuation 17. Quarters: 24-22, 24-27, 23-13, 23-14. PAO goes to Kaunas next week. Zagreb will meet CSKA in Moscow.

Panathinaikos: Mike Batiste 18+9 boards, David Logan 13, Nick Calathes 13, Romain Sato 12+5 boards
Zagreb: Damir Mulaomerovic 18, Krunoslav Simon 15+6 boards, Sean May 12+10 boards, T.J. Ford 12

Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
Nikos Hatzivrettas (195-G-77) becomes the fourth player to agree financial terms with the (probably) new adition in the A1 league team of Panellinios as the team is allready proceeding with documents which are 'clearing' the old situation. The Basketball Federation of Greece will soon announce the official results of the new situation which according to our data and research will be positive for the team of Panellinios to start combeting in the A1 league for the season 2011-2012 with 7-8 games to play in the short term future. It is worth mentioend the other three players currently in the roster of Panellinios, are Dimitrios Kalaitzidis (198-F/G-85), Christos Papanikolaou (195-G-85) and Manolis Koukoulas (211-C-91)

AS Apollon Patras agreed financial terms with the experienced guard/forward Vladimir Petrovic-Stergiou (198-F/G-77) for the remaining of the season. The experienced player spent last season with Iraklis Thessaloniki in A1 being one of the top performers of the team. Apollon Patras with thsi addition becomes the number one favorite team for the promotion inn A1 after quite some seasons in B and A2 leagues.

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

HUNGARY

Ingram's 46-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
26-year old point guard Justin Ingram (185-PG-85) put on an amazing game in the last round for FS Debrecen and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8.
He had the game-high 46 points adding seven rebounds and seven assists for FS Debrecen in his team's victory, helping them to beat Jaszberenyi (2-6) 100-94. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. FS Debrecen is placed at 11th position in league. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 6 games and recorded just two victories. In the team's last game Ingram had a remarkable 87.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be FS Debrecen's top player in his first season with the team. The University of Toledo graduate has very impressive stats this year. Ingram is league's best scorer averaging so far 25.4ppg. Ingram is in league's top in assists (8th best: 4.6apg) and averages solid 2.3spg and 57.6% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Jara Doyne (193-G/F-84) of PVSK Pannon. He is American swingman in his first season at PVSK Pannon. In the last game Doyne recorded impressive 31 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Of course PVSK Pannon cruised to a 82-71 relatively comfortable win over ZTE KK (#14, 0-8). This victory allowed PVSK Pannon to move up to 7th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-5 record. Doyne is a newcomer at PVSK Pannon and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.3ppg (#2). His other stats are also decent: 7.3rpg and 4.3apg.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Rashad Bell (201-F-82) of Kormend (#3). Bell showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, nine rebounds and six assists in the last round. He was a key player of Kormend, leading his team to a 104-76 easy win against the lower-ranked Szedeak (#12, 2-6). Kormend is closer and closer to the top of the standings. They will still need more victories. But 7-1 record is not that bad... Bell has a very solid season. In 8 games in Hungary he scored 18.9ppg. He also has 6.9rpg, 2.1spg and FGP: 56.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jonathan Jones (211-C-79) of Jaszberenyi - 26 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Chad Timberlake (194-G-84) of Falco-Szova - 24 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Kejuan Johnson (193-G-85) of Jaszberenyi - 26 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists
7. Laszlo Kalman (186-G-72) of Falco-Szova - 29 points and 9 assists
8. Wayne Chism (206-F-87) of Albacomp - 22 points and 16 rebounds
9. Darian Townes (208-F/C-84) of Kormend - 16 points and 9 rebounds
10. Stefan Fekete (188-G-86) of Marso NYKK - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists

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

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IRELAND

Standings - EBS Superleague

SuperLeague Standings

North Conference
1. DCU Saints		9-2
2. 11890 Killester		6-3
3. UCD Marian		4-5
4. Belfast Star		1-9
South Conference
1. B.Gais Neptune		6-3
2. UCC Demons		5-3
3. UL Eagles		5-6
4. Moycullen		3-8

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Ronald THOMPSON
  B.Gais N.
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 25.4

1. Thompson, B.Gais N.	25.4
2. Atupem, UCC Demons	24.6
3. Enos, Moycullen	23.5
4. Johnson, Belfast	23.0
5. Turner, 11890 K.	20.5
6. Cummins, Belfast	17.8
7. Stith, UCD Marian	17.5
8. Jefferson, UL Ea.	17.4
9. Glover, DCU Saints	15.9
10. Killeen, UL Eagles	15.2

Rebounds Per Game

Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 18.1

1. Turner, 11890 K.	18.1
2. Thompson, B.Gais N.	15.1
3. Provizors, DCU S.	12.7
4. Killeen, UL Eagles	11.9
5. Enos, Moycullen	11.7
6. Stith, UCD Marian	10.3
7. Atupem, UCC Demons	9.9
8. Tummon, Moycullen	8.7
9. Johnson, Belfast	8.7
10. O''Reilly, UCC D.	8.2

Assists Per Game

Scott KINEVANE
  UL Eagles
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 4.6

1. Kinevane, UL Eagl.	4.6
2. Coughlan, UCC D.	4.6
3. Turner, 11890 K.	4.3
4. Noonan, B.Gais N.	4.1
5. Clarke, 11890 K.	4.1
6. Dowd, Moycullen	3.9
7. Cunningham, Moycul.	3.6
8. Meany, UCD Marian	3.5
9. Donnelly, DCU S.	3.3
10. Hall, UL Eagles	3.2

Steals Per Game

Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Turner, 11890 K.	3.8
2. Thompson, B.Gais N.	3.7
3. McGinn, B.Gais N.	3.0
4. Stith, UCD Marian	2.8
5. Taylor, B.Gais N.	2.3
6. Noonan, B.Gais N.	2.3
7. Jefferson, UL Ea.	2.1
8. Madsen, 11890 K.	2.0
9. Clarke, 11890 K.	2.0
10. Donnelly, DCU S.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Turner, 11890 K.	3.3
2. Killeen, UL Eagles	2.6
3. Thompson, B.Gais N.	2.3
4. Stith, UCD Marian	1.9
5. Trimmer, DCU S.	1.4
6. Enos, Moycullen	1.3
7. O''Brien, 11890 K.	1.3
8. Taylor, B.Gais N.	1.1
9. Casey, 11890 K.	0.9
10. Provizors, DCU S.	0.8

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

ISRAEL

Loto League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Sylven LANDESBERG
  Maccab.
  (198-F/G-90)
  Avg: 24.7

1. Landesberg, Macca.	24.7
2. Duncan, Maccabi	21.0
3. Banks, Elitzur	20.8
4. Carter, Bnei H.	20.5
5. Delaney, B.C. H.	19.8
6. Bradley, Maccabi	19.8
7. Crawford, Maccab.	19.7
8. Dunn, Bnei Hashar.	19.3
9. Lewis, Hapoel Holon	18.9
10. Powell, Maccabi H.	18.4

Rebounds Per Game

Josh DUNCAN
  Maccabi .
  (203-C/F-86)
  Avg: 11

1. Duncan, Maccabi	11.0
2. Dunston, Hapoel H.	10.7
3. Dowell, B.C. H.	8.8
4. Kitchen, Maccabi	8.7
5. Freeman, B.C. H.	8.7
6. Tyus, Maccabi	8.5
7. Williams, Maccabi	8.1
8. Mitchell, Ironi A.	7.9
9. Bowman, Maccabi	7.8
10. Morgan, Ironi A.	7.4

Assists Per Game

Moran ROTH
  Hapoel Holon
  (183-PG-82)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Roth, Hapoel Holon	7.9
2. Tapiro, Maccabi	7.5
3. Randle, Elitzur	7.0
4. Carter, Bnei H.	5.8
5. Thomas, Galil Gilb.	5.8
6. Papaloukas, Macca.	5.5
7. Mitchell, Ironi A.	5.4
8. Ohayon, Maccabi	5.0
9. Jackson, Maccabi	5.0
10. Powell, Maccabi H.	4.7

Steals Per Game

Raviv LIMONAD
  Ironi A.
  (192-G-84)
  Avg: 3

1. Limonad, Ironi A.	3.0
2. Pinnock, B.C. H.	2.8
3. Ben-Chimol, Maccab.	2.4
4. Delaney, B.C. H.	2.3
5. Ohayon, Maccabi	2.3
6. Yavzuri, Galil Gil.	2.0
7. Burns, Elitzur	2.0
8. Kitchen, Maccabi	2.0
9. Berkowitz, Ironi A.	2.0
10. Harush, Hapoel H.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Sean WILLIAMS
  Maccabi .
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 4.1

1. Williams, Maccabi	4.1
2. Uter, Maccabi	2.7
3. Varnado, Hapoel J.	1.7
4. Dunston, Hapoel H.	1.7
5. Hendrix, Maccabi	1.6
6. Powell, Maccabi Ha.	1.3
7. Sullivan, Hapoel H.	1.3
8. Dowell, B.C. H.	1.2
9. James, Maccabi T-A	1.2
10. Tyus, Maccabi	1.2

Standings - BSL

Premier League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A		5-1
2. Galil Gilboa		5-2
3. Ironi Ashkelon		5-2
4. B.C. Habikaa		4-2
5. Hapoel J-M		4-2
6. Hapoel Holon		4-3
7. Maccabi Rishon		3-3
8. Maccabi Haifa		3-4
9. Bnei Hasharon		1-5
10. Maccabi Ashdod		1-5
11. Elitzur Netanya		0-6

Galil Gilboa stays perfect in BIBL - by Eurobasket News
BIBL, Round 4: Timisoara - Galil Gilboa 76-83

Galil Gilboa demonstrated another great performance in Balkan league. This time the Israeli squad handed 76-83 home loss to Romanian Timisoara. Galil Gilboa stays on top of Group A with perfect 4-0 record. On the other side Timisoara dropped to 1-3. The guests were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 18-14 Timisoara's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 83-76 at the end of the game. Galil Gilboa dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Timisoara's 34. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. The winners were led by center Ido Kozikaro (203-C-78) who scored that evening 17 points and 6 rebounds (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!) and American Romeo Travis (200-PF-84, college: Akron) supported him with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin (189-G-77) allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 24 points and 6 rebounds by Croatian swingman Ivan Siriscevic (198-G/F-87) did not help to save the game for Timisoara. American forward Dominique Archie (200-F-87, college: S.Carolina) added 16 points and 11 rebounds for lost side. Five Galil Gilboa and four Timisoara players scored in double figures. Galil Gilboa's next round opponent will be Torus Skopje (#4) at home. Timisoara will play against Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Timisoara: I.Siriscevic 24+6reb, D.Archie 16+11reb+1ast, B.Popescu 14+5reb+2ast, Z.Jovanovic 10+2reb+1ast, D.Paltinisanu 6+4reb+1ast, B.Cuic 3+3reb+6ast
Galil Gilboa: I.Kozikaro 17+6reb, J.Jones 12+1reb+1ast, R.Travis 12+6reb+4ast, C.Allen 11+1reb+5ast, C.Thomas 10+5reb+4ast, A.Gordon 9

Chris Watson joins Maccabi Beer Ya'akov - by Netanel Dahan
The Israeli/American veteran player Chris Watson (200-C/F-75, college: Niagara), decided to leave Netaniya and joins the Israeli National League team Maccabi Beer Ya'akov.

Watson had an o.k season so far as he posted up in Netaniya 2.5 ppg, and 2.7 rpg on 13 mpg.
Watson's last apperence on the National league was on 2003-04 in Migdal Ha'amek there he had 20 ppg.

Beer Ya'akov is the National League shocker as they suprised most likely the top team in the league Hapoel Tel Aviv at their home court Hadar Yosef, and now Beer Ya'akov is ranked at the 1st place in the league. Watson should be a good addition to the team.

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

ITALY

Mustafa First Blog! - by Mustafa Shakur
Welcome me for the FIRST time readers and fellow bloggers!!!! For those that dont know me Im a former University of Arizona
Wildcat PG ( not to be confused with a Sun Devil) born in West Philadelphia, but raised in
Uptown Philly. Almost sounds like the Fresh Prince of Bel - Air opening song West
Philadelphia born and raised.... HA....

When I started out playing the game of basketball, I had no idea it would take me all over the world. When I was younger, all I knew about bball was playing in my neighborhood and traveling to surrounding areas to compete. My ﬁrst memorable moment was having my uncle lift me up to score a basketfelt like a dunk back then! But now that I think about it, my uncle is only 510 so how did he ever lift me up on a regulation basket?!?!?! Something seems sketchy, either my uncle or my memory LOLwell at least for my memorys sake, I now have my own blog to accurately capture my memorable moments, but now they cant be fabricated LOL When I was your age I could grab a silver dollar off the backboard and place a collect call before I came down Guess that would never fly now

Well anyway, now here I stand in my 5th year out of college, a professional athlete, and enjoying every minute of it. Every job has its ups and downs but how can I complain? Ive played in 5 countrys (Poland, Spain, Greece, France, and
currently Italy) and got my ﬁrst true NBA shot last year with the Washington Wizards. I was called up and
signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder from the NBAs developmental league in 2009-10 season also; but
didnt log one minute of game action. None the less it was also a great experience being a part of a class act
organization spearheaded by owner Clay Bennett and GM Sam Presti. Facing the Lakers in the playoffs and
being a part of the preparation and mindset has certainly helped me.

I must say, my funniest experiences or most interesting moments being a professional athlete has been living abroad. Always on the communication side like when Im ordering food , I have the most hilarious dialogues, its like Im playing Pictionary to describe what dish I want. Somehow I
make it work.. I arrived in Casale Monferatto, Italy 2 weeks ago and its been everything Ive been looking for
as far as an opportunity to play my game. Coach Marco is a big part of why I am happy to be here. The biggest thing I admire about our coach Marco Crespi is his ability and passion to help
players improve. His attention to detail is exactly what I need. I was making small mistakes that he was
able to quickly help me change and after my ﬁrst two outings Im above 50 percent in FGs and 3pt
percentage. In my ﬁrst game I had my overseas career high of 30pts and got the win. Nothing better than
winning and seeing hard work pay off. Outside of that I have awesome teammates that have accepted me and given
me the confidence to be myself. Its not always easy when the new guy arrives but its been an easy transition
with great guys.. Cant forget how important it is having former Rio Grande Valley (D-league) teammates Garrett Temple and Matt Janning here. Familiar faces with like experiences are truly helpful on and off the court. Follow me on twitter (@stafshakur) for more updates...

Alright its time for my official NapUntil next time CIAO!!!!

Staf

Announced the dates of All Star Game and Coppa Italia - by Andrea Centenari
Legabasket has announced the dates of the 2012 Serie A All Star Game and Coppa Italia. The italian All Star Game will take place in Trieste on the next 11 of March between Italian National Team and a selection of the best foreign players of the league.
The Coppa Italia's Final Eight will take place in Torino the weekend of the 16-19 of February.
LegaDue will play his own Coppa Italia's Final Four (3-4 of March) in Bari.

Two more games for Danilo Gallinari with Olimpia Milano - by Andrea Centenari
In an interview, Milano's coach Sergio Scariolo (agency: Alti Sport ) revealed the future plans of Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group): 'He's gonna play tonight in Euroleague against Real Madrid and also on sunday against Cremona in the Italian League, I think'. The Denver Nuggets forward is expected to be on his NBA team training camp on December 9.
Gallinari, this year, has played 7 games in the Italian League with Milano averaging 10,4 points and 5,3 rebounds per game. In Euroleague (6 games) he had 17 points and 4,2 rebounds per game.

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JAPAN

Jerald Honeycutt is a newcomer at Toyota Alvark - by Eurobasket Center
Toyota Alvark added to their roster 37-year old American forward Jerald Honeycutt (205-F-120kg-74, college: Tulane). Honeycutt played most recently at Panasonic Trians (JBL). While playing 34 games for Panasonic last season he averaged 8.9ppg, 6.4rpg and 1.2apg. He helped them to end the regular season as a second best team in the league.. Honeycutt is a very experienced player. He graduated from Tulane University in 1997 and then played pro basketball in Greece, Korea, Lebanon, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Russia and Venezuela.

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JUCO

3 Former Juco Players to Lead the Cleveland Hotcards ABA Travel Team - by Vance Marbury
The Cleveland Hotcards ABA travel team will embark on its first regular season game this weekend vs the Chicago Steam. The Cleveland Hotcards ABA Travel Team will be made up of several players from the Cleveland Ohio area looking to get some positive exposure and progress to playing overseas, or with other minor league teams.

The Cleveland Hotcards will be led by former Juco Players William Jones Spoonriver CC, Vince Maxwell Spoonriver CC, and Darvel Harris Lakelannd CC (Mentor Oh).
William Jones one of Cleveland, Ohio best kept secret is a 6'7' 220 lb Small Forward that can handle the ball, finish above the rim, block shots, and guard multiple positions.
Vincent Maxwell a 6'4' 210 lb Small Forward, who loves to play with his back to the basket, shoot the mid-range jumper and play good post defense is a great talent as well. Darvel Harris a 5'5' dynamo, is quick, great floor leader, and creative shot maker.

William Jones really should be playing overseas right now, he is a pure talent that the world is about to be introduce to. Vince Maxwell is the perfect compliment to Jones and there cohesiveness is going to be a big factor in the Cleveland Hotcards success for the 2011-12 season.

The Cleveland Hotcards, will also feature several other players that will have tons of upside, and they hope that the core of there players will not be around long, as the hope is they will move on to higher minor leagues, or european professional teams!!

All participants for the Cleveland Hotcards team, participated in the 2011 Hotcards.com Cleveland Am Pro Basketball League!!!

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KOSOVO

Bashkimi arrives to victory, harder then they imagined - by Dren Shporta
Oranges from Prizren thought that they will easily pass Kolegji Univers. After a good start in the first quarter, 27:19, Arben Nixhas boys had real problems of stopping unsuitable college boys which showed what an organized game could do.

The only shining light in Bashkimi team was Samir Shaptahovic (174-G-81) who did everything to stop his teammates errors. Bashkimis 30 year old playmaker scored 30 points and made some very good assists to finish a hard job against Kolegji Univers.

C.J. Webster scored 26 points and Rodrick Stewart added 15 more, while in Kolegji Universs team there were five players who scored more than 10 points. Ngadhnjim Dragusha scored 18, Besart Shatri 14 and Hekuran Binxhia added 13 points to show that college boys are not undeservedly in the fourth position of BKT Superliga.

After ten matches played Bashkimi has a positive record of 6-4, with 16 points collected. Next round they visit Drita. Kolegji Univers visits Kosova in the next round and they have a chance to keep their fourth position, in front of favorites, Peja!

Valdrin Haxhiu shines, while Trepca wins over Kosova - by Dren Shporta
League leaders, Trepca, have experimented in their last nights game against Kosova. Coach, Ilir Selmani, gave the chance to its bench to show themselves and they did it perfectly, the final score 91:75. Valdrin Haxhiu (191-G/F-88) and Arian Tahiri scored 23 respectively 13 points in the night to gain a confident victory, before the big match against Sigal Prishtina.

Greens were helped by Jaleel Nelson with his 26 points and Gazmend Asllani, who added 18 more. Besnik Azemi and Prekazi were among the main resisters from Kosovas side, but they could only made possible for Vushtrrian boys to win two quarters, the first (20:21) and the third (19:20).

Trepca now has a perfect 10-0 record and faces the champions as a visitor in a Round 11 match, which also will be a first and main test for their new player from Croatia, Denis Vrsaljko. Trepca has won against Sigal Prishtina 77:67 in their first clash.

Standings - Superleague

SuperLeague Standings

1. Trepca		10-0
2. Sigal Prishtina		9-1
3. Bashkimi		6-4
4. Kolegji Univer.		5-5
5. Peja		4-5
6. Drita		2-7
7. Kosova		2-7
8. Futura		0-9

Champions pass easily Futura - by Dren Shporta
In the last nights game against Futura, Arben Krasniqis boys have showed that they are the only candidates that could stop actual leaders Trepca. Ulug Kacaniku (202-G/F-85), Alban Veseli and Fahri Breca where trio of the night for Sigal Prishtina, which registered the ninth win of the season.

Sigal Prishtina during the entire match was in advantage and opened the scoring nonstop. In Jeton Nixhas team, Kujtim Lepaja and Kreshnik Juniku were the ones who made more and kept their team on the track. Futura is eager to its first victory in BKT Superliga, and now they have to search it somewhere else, in next rounds.

Sigal Prishtina, in the next round plays against Trepca. The champions want to show to the Mitrovican boys that they can be beaten. With in-form Ulug Kacaniku (scored 25 points at night), and always good Edo, plus largest bench in the league, champions are capable to do that. For more, we will have to wait the great clash.

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LATVIA

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings

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

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LITHUANIA

Zalgiris grabs 67-65 thriller win against Unicaja - by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris - Unicaja 67-65

Zalgiris is alive. They grabbed 67-65 home victory against Unicaja on Wednesday night joining Brose Baskets and Zagreb with 2-5 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. At the same time, Unicaja dropped to 3-4 record in this pool. Free throws by Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and a dunk by Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) allowed Zalgiris to win the game, as Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) missed a shot in the game's final possession. His driving shot hit the rim seconds before the final buzzer. Weems led the hosts with double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Marko Popovic and Ty Lawson (180-PG-87, college: N.Carolina) helped with 11 and 10 points respectively. In Unicaja, Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) collected 15 points and 6 rebs. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) (9 rebs) and Kristaps Valters (6 as) stopped to 12 points each. Quarters: 19-11, 16-13, 15-18, 17-23. Zalgiris waits Panathinaikos in the next round. Unicaja will host Brose Baskets.

Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 18+11 boards, Marko Popovic 11, Ty Lawson 10
Unicaja: Gerald Fitch 15+6 boards, Joel Freeland 12+9 boards, Kristaps Valters 12+6 as

Techasas adds three players from KK Baltai Kaunas - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Panevezys Techasas is consolidating their roster. They have added guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-G-89, agency: Alti Sport), center Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-C-89, agency: Interperformances) and center Adomas Drungilas (203-C-90). These three players will be playing on loan from KK Baltai Kaunas.
Sarunas Vasiliauskas was the second high scoring player in Baltai in this season's BEKO-Lithuanian Basketball League, averaging 11.8 points, 2.8 boards and 2.5 assists in 24 minutes. Vaidas Cepukaitis averaged 18 minutes, 7.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 0.4 blocks per game while Adomas Drungilas added 2.7 points and 2.8 rebounds in 13 minutes per match.

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LUXEMBOURG

Watsup World! - by Philip Perre
Hello world Im back. Its a been a frustrating 2 weeks for us as a team, after dropping 2 games. especially losing these games in the last minutes, think we have to stay focused for the whole 40 minutes, playing Confident and Resilient. we have been unlucky also, so now it's our time to receive some of that luck on our side. Go Pikes!

As the Xmas break is rapidly around the corner, every team in the Diekirch League is fighting for good position. Our team the Musel Pikes currently hold a 4-6 record, and are concentrated on getting back on the winning path. Especially our up coming cup game, which if we win see's us to the Final Four in Luxembourg. It's a great opportunity for the team and we are in a good position to do good things, we just have to take care of business. Let's get it fellas

On another note, very excited that the NBA is back, and both sides have come to a deal to have a 2011-2012 season, not only is it good for the players and owners to start making money. It's good for the economy from which allot of people relies on the NBA, from workers in and around the arena's, to communities or cities around the many NBA arena's. But most importantly it brings back these many NBA players playing in Europe/Asia/Oceania wherever they might be, and opens up jobs for those guys who have played overseas or wanting to play overseas. It's tough times right now in the basketball world and in the world in general so we all have to be grateful for having jobs and being in the position to do something you love.

Till next time people, stay healthy and be safe wherever you are.

Handwork always beats Talent, if talent doesn't work hard..
Philip Perre (198-F-79, college: N.Alabama)

Philip blog! - by Philip Perre
Hello basketball world: my name is Philip Perre, and I am a professional basketball for the Musel Pikes, here in Luxembourg. I attended the University of North Alabama, and before that played Juco ball in the great Texas NJCAA conference. Ive playing professional ball for many years now, in places like England, France, Czech Republic, Greece, Iceland, and have gained allot of experience under my belt. My favourite memories have to be winning the BBL championship with the Scottish Rocks then winning the playoffs last season with Valur in Iceland.

Firstly so happy for being able to have a blog, to share my thoughts and experiences as a professional basketball player overseas. Currently in Luxembourg, playing for Musel Pikes and we are standing at a 4-5 record. Our record really doesnt show how improved we have got as a team, and how hard we work, the many battles we have been in, where we have come up on the losing end. But our team as a whole has improved and we are focused and determined to get a playoff spot, so we can do some damage in the playoffs.

As far as me being in Luxembourg the country, its been great, very small country but a nice country. One thing I like being here is the fact that Luxembourg is close to allot of European countries like Holland, Belgium, Germany, France. So il do allot of travelling when I can. People are great and have been treating myself and my teammate Brandon Gary good. Things are extremely hard right now on the professional world, I feel extremely blessed and motivated to have a great season and do some winning. Please stay tuned and ill give you guys updates on how our season is going. God Bless

Handwork always beats Talent, if talent doesnt work hard..

Philip Perre (198-F-79, college: N.Alabama)

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MALTA

Athleta and Siggiewi reach Louis Borg Cup Final - by Eurobasket News
Athleta and Siggiewi will play in Louis Borg Cup Finals. They held off Loyola and Depiro respectively.
Siggiewi claimed a 108:100 win over Depiro on aggregate. Siggiewi celebrated a 57:51 win in the first leg encounter. Depiro led 30:27 at halftime of the second encounter. They were still up by two points 42:40 at the start of the final frame but Siggiewi did not allow their opponents to boost the margin. Moreover Alan Borg (196-G/F-80) hit six free throws in a row late in regulation to seal the victory for Siggiewi.
Athleta enjoyed a 68:64 lead after the opening leg of their clash versus Loyola. Athleta also stayed in charge in the second game. They built a 29:21 lead at the interval and controlled the situation in the second half. Eventually they posted a 70:54 win to set up an exciting battle against Siggiewi in the Louis Borg Cup Finals.

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NBA

Clippers open talks with Gordon, Jordan - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Clippers reached out to the representatives of guard Eric Gordon (6'4''-G-88, college: Indiana) and center DeAndre Jordan (7'0''-C-88, college: Texas A&M) early Wednesday morning to discuss a contract extension for Gordon and a new contract for Jordan, who is a restricted free agent, general manager Neil Olshey told ESPNLosAngeles.com.

'The first phone calls from our organization today were in regard to our own players,' Olshey said. 'We're committed to the core group we have. We've been building slowly and we're in a great position to capitalize on that now with our cap flexibility. But we know that our existing players are a priority.'

Under the expected terms of the new collective bargaining agreement, which has yet to be ratified, Gordon would be eligible for a four-year extension on his rookie contract. Previously those type of extensions had to be completed by the beginning of the season, but because of the lockout, it's unknown when that deadline will be. If Gordon and the Clippers cannot come to an agreement on an extension, he would become a restricted free agent after this season, giving him the right to sign an offer sheet elsewhere that the Clippers could match.

The fourth-year guard from Indiana had his best season as a professional last year, averaging 22.3 points and 4.4 assists.

Jordan was a second-round draft pick in 2008, which made him eligible for restricted free agency this year. He is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agent centers on the free agent market, although the Clippers would have the right to match any offer sheet he signs elsewhere.

A league source said Jordan's preference is to remain with the Clippers, but that he will entertain other offers and wouldn't hesitate to sign elsewhere.

Re-signing Jordan is also seen as an important to the Clippers longterm future because of his close relationship with forward Blake Griffin.

'If we put the pieces around Blake and DeAndre Jordan and Eric Gordon and the rest of the talent we have, that can win at a high level, that's what's going to impress everybody,' Olshey said.

'We've made no secret that keeping this core group together and then building upon it, through free agency, through trades, through the draft, is how we're going to have sustainable success.'

The Clippers also intend to upgrade at the small forward position this season after getting minimal production from veteran Ryan Gomes and rookie Al-Farouq Aminu last year. Both those players should still be in the mix, but the Clippers are expected to look for an upgrade on either the free agent market or via a trade.

'When you look at our roster in a vacuum, position-by-position, clearly the biggest question mark is how do we increase the production at the small forward position,' Olshey said. 'We still think Farouq has an incredibly high ceiling. He's a young player learning a new position. He showed flashes of brilliance last year but in order to ensure we're a playoff team this year, that's clearly a position we need to create more production out of.

'We've contacted the agents for all the top small forward candidates and we've taken conversations as far as we can take them within the criteria we're allowed to discuss now.'

The top free agent small forwards in this free agent class include Tayshaun Prince, Grant Hill, Caron Butler, Shane Battier and restricted free agents Thaddeus Young and Jeff Green.

The Clippers are approximately $13 million under the projected $58 million salary cap. The question going forward is whether they commit that room to a long-term contract now, or use it on a short-term contract for a veteran player this season so they will be far enough under the cap in 2012 to make a maximum offer to a player in the free agent class which could include Chris Paul, Dwight Howard and Deron Williams.

Courtesy of ESPN

Tyson Chandler expecting to leave Dallas Mavericks - by Eurobasket News
Dallas Mavericks forward Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) said Wednesday that he is exploring other options because he does not expect to return to the Mavs, according to ESPN.com.

I really think Im going to be on a new team come training camp, Chandler told ESPN.com. Im really taking a hard look at all of my options, trying to see what best suits me.

Many teams around the NBA have assumed that Chandler is a lock to return to Dallas, but he insists that is not accurate. Chandler told ESPN that he would like to stay in Dallas, but he admitted that he was upset that the team did not offer him a contract extension.

Chandler added that he hopes to be with a team soon.

I would like this to be settled by early next week, Chandler said. I want to be in camp with my new teammates as soon as possible.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com

Top priority for Chicago Bulls: Ink Rose to new deal - by Eurobasket News
Yes, the Bulls need to give some consideration to a two guard (Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) is the perfect fit but Denver won't let him go) and some depth up front.

But those are not the biggest priority.

Job No. 1 - keep Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) happy. He is the franchise cornerstone, the MVP, the guy who fills the seats and who sponsors pay to be associated with. Hes the meal ticket.

Which is why the Bulls are working on the framework for a new maximum extension for Rose, according to ESPNChicago.com.

Roses new deal will start at $17.4 million (next season), a figure he gets thanks to the Derrick Rose rule. As part of the new labor agreement, the rule lets rookies heading into their second contract who have made two All-NBA teams or won the MVP (as Rose did) get up to 30 percent of the salary cap (other rookies can get no more than 25 percent, meaning Rose gets about $3 million a year more).

Rose told CSNChicago.com he is flattered by and likes the rule. Ya think?

No real drama here, the Bulls will offer the deal and Rose will sign it. As it should be. There are a handful of cornerstone NBA players and when you have one you do whatever it takes to keep them.

Courtesy of http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com

Nets GM denies Dwight Howard trade talks - by Eurobasket News
Nets general manager Billy King vehemently denied rumors Wednesday that he was in trade discussions with the Orlando Magic regarding All-Star center Dwight Howard (6'11''-C-85).

Ill go on the record that I havent talked to Orlando about a trade since February, right before the trade deadline, King said at a press conference at the teams practice facility. I have not had any conversations at all with my good friend Otis (Smith, the Magic general manager).

So, I dont know where that is coming from.

There were published reports which stated the Nets were in talks with the Magic about trading two first-round draft picks and center Brook Lopez in return for Howard, who is in the final year of his contract and will be a free agent next June.

King also promised that if a trade does happen involving any Nets, it wont be a long, drawn-out process like the three-month pursuit of Carmelo Anthony was last season. Several Nets were subjected to daily rumors throughout the early part of last season and Anthony eventually ended up landing with the Knicks.

Courtest of The Associated Press via www.insidehoops.com

Suns want to re-sign Grant Hill - by Eurobasket News
More than most NBA executives, Suns President of Basketball Operations Lon Babby knows the importance of the impression that this morning's calls to agents gave.

Babby was an agent. He was Grant Hill's (6'8''-F-72, college: Duke) agent. But Wednesday, his Suns were the ones sending out a message to Hill's current agent about how badly Phoenix wants to re-sign him.

At 7 a.m. Phoenix time, the Suns began talking to agents of players. That meant checking in on some of their own guys but the first calls needed to go to the agents of free-agent players to show the Suns' interest. The Suns will be feeling out the market for a scoring wing player and a backup point guard but there will be no spending that disrupts the salary-cap space they have set up for the summer of 2012. The free agent priority is getting an agreement with Hill, who is still represented by Babby's former firm with Jim Tanner acting as Hill's agent.

'Grant is an absolute first order of business and top priority,' Babby said of Hill. 'I can't contemplate him not being here. He represents everything we want the franchise to stand for -- on and off the court. He's our ballast.'

Lots of things work in the favor of a re-signing:

Both sides want it to happen.

Babby and Hill go back 18 years. Alvin Gentry and Hill go back 15 years.

Hill and Nash can be content in Phoenix, as long as they still have each other.

Hill and his wife, Tamia, returned to the Valley in August when it was time for their daughters to start school again.

Phoenix is a place where Hill could have a role beyond his playing career.

In a quest to improve defensively, the Suns can't afford to lose their best, most-versatile defender.

Hill, 39, will be the league's second-oldest player (by a day, assuming Kurt Thomas returns) but he proved to be one of the best defenders in the league last season and is the professional influence, like Steve Nash, that the Suns want their younger players to see during this franchise transition. Any concerns about his age can be countered by how he has missed only three games in the past three seasons because of how he trains and diets. Hill has shown an interest in playing until he is 40 and a third two-year contract with Phoenix would do that.

The Suns were in this same spot in 2009 and it got dicey before Hill re-signed. The Suns tried to aim low with an offer and Hill flirted with Boston and New York seriously before he signed an improved offer ($6.24 million over two years) to stay in Phoenix.

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

Nene wants out; six teams in hunt - by Eurobasket News
One of the surest bets of the soon-to-begin 2011 NBA free-agent period is that Hilario Nene (6'10''-C-82) wants out of Denver. Where he winds up, and how, will be among the most intriguing storylines when the floodgates open around Dec. 9.

The Nuggets are operating under the firm belief that Nene will test the market as an unrestricted free agent, according to a person familiar with the team's thinking. Six teams have registered interest, the source said: Golden State, New Jersey, Indiana, Miami, Dallas and Houston.

Nene, the top unrestricted free agent on the market in the view of many team executives, will have a say over where he winds up -- though not as much as free agents did under the previous system since free agents can no longer get max deals when leaving their teams via sign-and-trades.

Nene, 29, has long coveted Miami and Dallas as landing spots, but would have to force his way to one of those teams via a sign-and-trade since both are well over the cap. And whereas LeBron James was able to get a max deal through a sign-and-trade when he went from Cleveland to Miami, Nene would have to settle for a four-year deal with 4.5 percent raises under the new system in such an arrangement.

If the Golden State used the amnesty provision on Andris Biedrins, the Warriors would have enough room to sign Nene outright for close to the max -- but again, that would be a four-year deal with non-Bird raises as opposed to the five-year deal with 7.5 percent raises he'd get by re-signing with Denver. There's no incentive under the new rules for Nene to push for a sign-and-trade as opposed to an outright signing with another team, unless there was a clear preference for a team that didn't have room to sign him.

There is incentive, however, for the Nuggets to accommodate his wishes in the hopes of getting significant assets back through a sign-and-trade. For the Nuggets, the most advantageous scenario would be if Nene wanted to be in Miami, Dallas or Houston enough to be willing to accept less money to get there.

UPDATE: The Nets would have room sign Nene to a max deal starting at 30 percent of the cap -- $17.4 million -- if they used amnesty on Travis Outlaw. The Pacers have enough room regardless, while the Rockets are close. They would either do a sign-and-trade or trade a player to create cap space or a trade exception. A source indicated the Rockets have no plans to use the amnesty clause on Terrence Williams.

Courtesy of http://ken-berger.blogs.cbssports.com

Las Vegas NBA odds say Heat will win 2012 championship - by Eurobasket News
The Las Vegas oddsmakers are banking on LeBron James (6'8''-F-84), Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) and the Miami Heat to get back to the NBA Finals in 2011-12, and once again the folks in Sin City view the Heat as the favorites to win it all.

Miamis Big Three, runners-up a year ago, are listed at 2-to-1 to take home the title in the truncated NBA season.

There was very heavy betting on the Heat at the start of last season because you have LeBron and Chris Bosh and theyre saying that theyll win seven championships, Benjamin Lee Eckstein of AmericasLine.com said. Once again this year theyre the immediate favorites.

The Dallas Mavericks - who actually won the title last year and will host the Heat on Dec. 25 - are at 8-to-1 odds to take home the championship again, behind the Bulls (6-to-1) and Lakers (5-to-1).

Maybe the Bulls arent as good as the Mavericks, but theyre not facing the free agency questions that Dallas is, Eckstein said.

From a local perspective, the Knicks are at 20-to-1 odds to win the Larry OBrien Trophy while the Nets are 60-to-1 longshots.

These are pre-free agency and pre-training camp numbers, Eckstein said. We could have the Knicks do a sign-and-trade for Chris Paul and the Knicks would jump from 20-to-1 up to 3- or 4-to-1.

The Toronto Raptors are the longest of longshots coming in at 150-to-1.

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com

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NCAA1

Top 25 - Men

TOP25 Standings

1. Kentucky		0-0 (6-0)
2. Ohio St.		0-0 (7-0)
3. Duke		0-0 (7-0)
4. Syracuse		0-0 (6-0)
5. N.Carolina		0-0 (6-1)
6. Louisville		0-0 (5-0)
7. Baylor		0-0 (5-0)
8. Connecticut		0-0 (6-1)
9. Wisconsin		0-0 (6-1)
10. Florida		0-0 (4-1)
11. Xavier		0-0 (4-0)
12. Alabama		0-0 (7-0)
13. Missouri		0-0 (6-0)
14. Michigan		0-0 (5-1)
15. Kansas		0-0 (4-2)
16. Marquette		0-0 (5-0)
17. Pittsburgh		0-0 (6-1)
18. UNLV		0-0 (8-0)
19. Gonzaga		0-0 (5-0)
20. Vanderbilt		0-0 (5-1)
21. California		0-0 (6-1)
22. Mississippi St.		0-0 (7-1)
23. Memphis		0-0 (2-2)
24. St.Louis		0-0 (6-0)
25. Texas A&M		0-0 (5-1)

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Ryne SMITH
  Purdue
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 26

1. Smith, Purdue	26.0
2. Wattad, Chattano.	24.0
3. Smith, NC-Wilmi.	23.0
4. Stoglin, Maryland	22.0
5. Oladipo, Indiana	21.0
6. McDougald, Jackso.	21.0
7. Harris, Wake F.	20.0
8. Howell, N.Caroli.	19.5
9. Swansey, Tenn Tech	19.0
10. McKie, Wake Fore.	19.0

Rebounds Per Game

Draymond GREEN
  Michigan.
  (200-F-90)
  Avg: 18

1. Green, Michigan.	18.0
2. Finney-Smith, Virg.	16.0
3. Smith, Clemson	14.0
4. Shannon, Florida	12.0
5. Howell, N.Caroli.	11.5
6. Plumlee, Duke	11.0
7. Zlovaric, Chattano.	10.0
8. Desrosiers, Wake F.	10.0
9. Henson, N.Carolina	9.5
10. Drummond, Loyol.	9.0

Assists Per Game

Kendall MARSHALL
  N.Carolina
  (190-G-91)
  Avg: 10

1. Marshall, N.Caroli.	10.0
2. Smith, Clemson	8.0
3. Brown, N.Caroli.	7.5
4. Bell, Chattanooga	7.0
5. Loucks, Florida St.	6.0
6. Udofia, Georgia	6.0
7. Johnson, Belmont	6.0
8. Finney-Smith, Virg.	5.0
9. Jackson, Purdue	5.0
10. Scott, Miami, FL	5.0

Steals Per Game

Cody ZELLER
  Indiana
  (210-F-)
  Avg: 6

1. Zeller, Indiana	6.0
2. Smith, Clemson	5.0
3. Brown, N.Caroli.	4.5
4. Jones III, Indiana	4.0
5. Kennings, Florida	3.0
6. Moore, Florida A&M	3.0
7. Raines, Virginia T.	3.0
8. Cooley, E.Tenn.St.	3.0
9. Swoope, Miami, FL	3.0
10. Faust, Maryland	3.0

Blocks Per Game

Carson DESROSIERS
  Wake F.
  (213-C-)
  Avg: 8

1. Desrosiers, Wake F.	8.0
2. Henson, N.Carolina	5.5
3. Finney-Smith, Virg.	4.0
4. Mosley, Maryland	3.0
5. Inameti, Tenn Tech	3.0
6. Elston, Indiana	2.0
7. Jennings, Clemson	2.0
8. Plumlee, Duke	2.0
9. Lawson, Purdue	2.0
10. Akpejiori, Miami,	2.0

Moser leads No. 18 UNLV over UCSB 94-88 in 2 OTs - by Eurobasket News
UC Santa Barbara has had some recent success against UNLV and the Gauchos almost had their fifth straight win over the Runnin' Rebels.

Despite 36 points and 10 rebounds from 6-foot-5 senior guard Orlando Johnson (6'5''-G/F-89), No. 18 UNLV was able to beat the Gauchos 94-88 in double overtime Wednesday night.

Both teams made big shots late in the game, the Gauchos' biggest coming off a missed free throw.

UCSB tied the score 71-71 at the end of regulation when Johnson purposely missed a free throw and 7-foot-3 center Greg Somogyi picked up the rebound and scored.

'It looked like a pretty good move,' Gauchos coach Bob Williams of his decision to insert Somogyi into the game. 'We had some clutch things happen.'

The Gauchos, who trail 30-8 in the all-time series with UNLV, were the first team to outrebound the Rebels this season finishing with a 46-44 advantage.

First-year coach David Rice knew UNLV would be in for a tough game after moving into the Top 25 for the first time this season.

Mike Moser (6'8''-F-90) scored 34 points and Chace Stanback (6'8''-G/F-89) had all 19 of his after halftime, none more important than his 3-pointer with 1.7 seconds left in the first overtime to tie it at 81-81.

'Being ranked for the first time this year, we knew we'd come in here with a bull's eye on our backs, and that UCSB would put forth a great effort,' Rice said. 'There were so many plays on both sides. We answered every challenge.'

The Rebels (8-0) were coming off a 90-80 victory over then-No. 1 North Carolina in the finals of the Las Vegas Invitational.

Moser came into the game as the nation's leading rebounder, but he did most of the damage against UCSB from behind the arc. He made six 3-pointers, including five in the second half. The sophomore forward, whose previous career-high was 23 points, had 10 rebounds.

'Mike Moser works hard to be a versatile player,' Rice said. 'He's the first in the gym for practice and the last to leave.'

It was second consecutive overtime defeat for UCSB (4-2), which lost 76-75 to San Diego State in its previous game.

'He and Moser put on quite a show,' Williams said of Johnson. 'Orlando was a warrior, an absolute warrior.'

After UCSB took an 81-78 lead with 13 seconds remaining in the first overtime on three free throws by James Nunnally, Stanback nailed his big 3-pointer.

'If he doesn't make that shot, we're going home with a loss,' Rice said. 'He's a senior, and he's been in a lot of big games.'

The Rebels scored the first four points of the second overtime, including a three-point play by Stanback, and led the rest of the way.

'I've got to give UNLV a lot of credit. They were outstanding defensively. That's the best defensive team we've played by far.'

Anthony Marshall had 13 points and eight assists for the Rebels, while Oscar Bellfield scored 11 points.

Johnson scored 12 points in the first half and his 3-pointer gave the Gauchos their largest lead at 27-20. UNLV finished the half on a 7-1 run to trail 28-27.

Moser scored the Rebels' first 11 points of the second half as they took a 38-34 lead. They extended it to 40-34 on a layup by Stanback but consecutive buckets by Johnson triggered a rally by the Gauchos, who went ahead 47-45 on a breakaway layup by T.J. Taylor.

Moser followed with consecutive 3-pointers, and UNLV took its biggest lead at 69-59 on another 3 by Moser with 2 minutes remaining. Johnson scored eight points in UCSB's 12-2 run at the end of regulation.

Nunnally scored 14 points for the Gauchos and Jaime Serna added 13.

Rice was no stranger to upsets in Santa Barbara. The first former UNLV player to be the team's head coach, he was a reserve guard on Jerry Tarkanian's 1990 national championship team that lost 78-70 to the Gauchos, the Rebels' last defeat before a 45-game winning streak.

Courtesy of www.chron.com

Agents search office of former Syracuse coach, source says - by Eurobasket News
Federal agents have searched the office of former Syracuse University assistant basketball coach Bernie Fine , accused of fondling ballboys working with the highly ranked college team, a law enforcement source said on Wednesday.

Agents executed the warrant on Tuesday at the university athletic office where Fine worked until Sunday, when he was fired, said the source, who works closely with the law enforcement investigation but did not want to be named.

Three men have accused Fine of sexually abusing them when they were juveniles. Fine has called the accusations against him 'patently false in every aspect.'

Fine was fired after ESPN aired audio of what it said was a telephone call between Fine's wife Laurie and an alleged victim in which she appeared to admit knowledge of the alleged abuse.

The Syracuse allegations have been compared to the Penn State scandal, in which an assistant football coach was charged with sexually abusing eight boys over 15 years. The Penn State scandal led to the dismissal of the university president and legendary coach Joe Paterno for failure to tell police about the alleged abuse.

But no charges have been filed against the former Syracuse assistant coach, and a grand jury has just begun looking into the accusations. There is no evidence so far that head Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim knew of the alleged abuse.

Boeheim had initially defended his assistant coach but reversed his stance on Sunday, saying he supported the firing of Fine.

GRAND JURY INVESTIGATION

Federal records showed that Steven Clymer, an assistant U.S. Attorney working on the Fine investigation, was granted a sealed search warrant on Tuesday, but it was unclear if that was related to the abuse allegations.

Assistant U.S. Attorney William Pericak of the Northern District of New York declined to comment on the search.

'Search warrants are part of the investigation, and we don't comment on that,' he said. 'If the search warrant is fruitful and we find evidence, then we are going to charge someone. That's when we'd make an announcement.'

A grand jury is investigating accusations that Fine molested a former ball boy, Bobby Davis, 39, and Davis's stepbrother Mike Lang, 45, when they were juveniles.

Lang has said in a CNN interview that Fine touched him inappropriately as a child at least 30-40 times.

Police in Pittsburgh said they were also working with the U.S. Attorney's office in Northern New York regarding allegations by a third accuser, Zach Tomaselli, who said in a televised interview that Fine tried to fondle him in a hotel in 2002.

Federal authorities took the lead in the Fine investigation after questions were raised about how vigorously the Syracuse police pursued a tip nine years ago.

Pericak said it was not uncommon for federal authorities to handle investigations into crimes such as sex with underage minors or child pornography.

'Those are federal offenses,' he said. 'They're very common to be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's office.'

Syracuse police have released a timeline of their knowledge of the allegations, showing the police chief knew in 2002 that a former team ball boy had accused Fine but never started an investigation.

Syracuse Chief of Police Frank Fowler said the decision not to pursue an investigation was made by his predecessor, Chief Dennis DuVal, a former Syracuse basketball player from 1971-1974 who later played for two seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Courtesy of www.reuters.com

No. 15 Jayhawks cruise past Florida Atlantic 77-54 - by Eurobasket News
Thomas Robinson (6'9''-F) had 19 points and 17 rebounds for his sixth straight double-double, and No. 15 Kansas overcame some sloppiness on offense to rout Florida Atlantic 77-54 on Wednesday night.

Playing their first home game in nearly three weeks, the Jayhawks (4-2) committed 17 turnovers that turned into several easy baskets for the Owls (4-4). But the play underneath by Robinson, the reigning Big 12 player of the week, was enough to carry them to victory.

Tyshawn Taylor (6'3''-G-90) added 18 points, Travis Releford (6'5''-G-90) had 11 and Jeff Withey 10 for Kansas, which hadn't played at Allen Fieldhouse since a season-opening win over Towson on Nov. 11.

Since then, the Jayhawks lost to top-ranked Kentucky at Madison Square Garden, beat Georgetown and UCLA in the Maui Invitational, and then lost to No. 3 Duke in the championship game.

Much of the Jayhawks' success against Florida Atlantic came from the free throw line, where they were 24 of 31 -- it certainly didn't come from the 3-point arc, where they were just 4 of 13.

Elijah Johnson, the team's top outside shooter, missed all three of his attempts. He also committed seven turnovers and at times looked completely lost on offense, just over a week after he scored a career-high 23 points against UCLA.

Dennis Mavin and Pablo Bertone scored points 17 each for the Owls, who have lost nine straight against ranked teams. Their last win against a ranked team came against No. 11 Oklahoma State on Dec. 1, 1998.

The defending Sun Belt regular-season champions started well, building a 9-3 lead and forcing Kansas coach Bill Self to call a timeout less than 4 minutes into the game.

It served as a wake-up call for the Jayhawks.

Withey scored their first field goal of the game out of the timeout, starting an 11-2 run that Taylor capped with his first basket with 11:29 remaining in the half.

Raymond Taylor hit a deep 3 for the Owls, but it hardly slowed the Jayhawks' momentum. Connor Teahan hit the first of his three first-half 3-pointers, Justin Wesley scored his first basket and Teahan knocked down another 3 as the Jayhawks extended the lead to 29-16 with 6:08 left.

Tyshawn Taylor added a circus-like scoop layup after Florida Atlantic snapped a 4-minute drought, and his deep 3-pointer from the top of the key pushed the lead to 16, the Jayhawks' biggest of the first half. Taylor hit two foul shots with 1.2 seconds left for a 42-26 lead.

The Jayhawks briefly extended the lead to 19 when Robinson converted a three-point play early in the second half, but their sloppiness nearly allowed Florida Atlantic back in the game.

On consecutive trips, Johnson threw the ball away, Kevin Young was stripped under the basket and Tyshawn Taylor was stripped by Mavin, who had 12 points in the second half.

The Owls got the lead down to 13 on a 3-pointer by Raymond Taylor with 7:14 left, but Withey scored at the other end and added another basket moments later to extend the lead, and Kansas cruised over the final 5 minutes to its 53rd nonconference home win in its last 54 games.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Duquesne falls to No. 17 Pittsburgh 80-69 - by Eurobasket News
Duquesne guard T.J. McConnell (6'1''-G) said before Wednesday night's game against No. 17 Pittsburgh that if the Dukes couldn't rebound against the bigger Panthers, they couldn't win.

He was more right than he even he imagined.

Despite shooting 52 percent from the field and forcing 23 turnovers, the Dukes fell 80-69 to their crosstown rivals in the annual City Game by getting crushed on the glass.

The Panthers outrebounded Dukes 39-15, pulled down 16 offensive rebounds and scored 18 second-chance points to win their 11th straight in the series.

'If you told me before the game that we'd come in here and force 23 turnovers and shoot 52 percent, I'd be convinced we had a great chance to win this game,' Duquesne coach Ron Everhart said. 'Obviously, we had to rebound a little better and force them to shoot a little more poorly from the 3-point line.'

Sean Johnson (6'2''-G-90) led Duquesne (4-3) with 19 points and McConnell had 15 points, four steals and three assists but the Dukes struggled against the bigger, stronger, deeper Panthers.

Ashton Gibbs (6'2''-G-90) scored 18 points, Dante Taylor added 15 points and Lamar Patterson had 10 for the Panthers, who never trailed over the game's final 30 minutes.

McConnell said one rebound in particular brought the Dukes' momentum to a screeching halt. Mamadou Datt's jumper with 12:44 left in the game cut Pitt's lead to 50-46. But Pitt's Nasir Robinson was fouled on a made layup and missed the free throw. The Panthers pulled down the rebound and Travon Woodall kicked it to Ashton Gibbs for a 3-pointer that extended Pitt's lead to 55-46.

'We were clicking on all cylinders,' McConnell said. 'But we gave them that rebound for the 3 and that really just killed us. We fought hard and did everything we needed to do.'

Each time the Dukes drew close, Gibbs would answer with a big shot, including consecutive 3-pointers during a 14-6 run midway through the second half that gave Pitt some needed breathing room.

Taylor had missed the previous two games with migraine headaches and lost his starting job to freshman Khem Birch. Yet he made up for lost time, making all six of his shots from the field and adding 11 rebounds, playing so well Birch spent most of the second half on the bench.

'It definitely was a confidence builder, just piggybacking off the last game I played before the two I missed,' Taylor said. 'I was able to come out and play with energy.'

The Dukes hoped to overcome their distinct size disadvantage by pushing the tempo against a Pitt team that has lacked the defensive tenacity that's become the hallmark of the program under coach Jamie Dixon.

'I think our fast-paced game really makes teams uncomfortable,' McConnell said. 'To force Pitt into 23 turnovers just shows you how fast we can really be and how fast we can push teams. We started to trap them, they were throwing the ball back and forth and we got into the passing lanes.'

It worked, for a couple of minutes anyway.

Duquesne's first three baskets were layups as the Dukes had little trouble beating the Panthers down the court, breathing life into a record Consol Energy Center crowd of 15,880 that appeared to have more Duquesne red in the stands than Pitt gold.

Pitt steadied itself behind the play of their big guys and their depth. Taylor, Birch, Patterson, Nasir Robinson and Talib Zanna cut off the lane and swallowed up miss after miss.

The Panthers took control with an 8-0 run early in the first half and slowly extended it to 38-27, with Zanna's dunk at the halftime horn a perfect example of Pitt's dominance around the rim.

The Dukes didn't let Pitt run away as Johnson and McConnell kept pestering Gibbs and backcourt mate Travon Woodall into sloppy mistakes.

Woodall finished with nine points and seven assists but also gave it away six times. Gibbs had four turnovers, but made up for it with clutch shooting.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

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

NCAA2

Barkdoll Makes Pro Debut - by Sanjey Noriega
From: gnacsports.com

Former Northwest Nazarene standout Brian Barkdoll (6'10''-C-89, college: NW Nazarene) recently made his professional debut with the Tulsa 66ers of the National Basketball Association's Developmental League.

Barkdoll, a 2011 graduate of NNU, was drafted in the sixth round on in the 2011 NBA D-League Draft. He reported to camp Nov. 11.

It was pretty intense from the start, Barkdoll said. We started with two-a-days and it was tough. I made it through the first practice and was pretty nervous and I felt like my legs were glued to the floor.

'But after the second practice I was fine and as the workouts went on I have just felt more and more natural.

We went down to Texas to play four scrimmages and I felt like I played pretty well. They told me I was picking up things nice and fast and I really think because of thatand my work ethicthat's why they kept me.

Barkdoll made a familiar trip to play in his first professional game as the 66ers opened with an 89-76 victory against the Idaho Stampede in Boise.

I feel like I did fairly well, Barkdoll said about his debut effort. While I didn't score any points the main focus on this team is all defense and if I can do my job defensively, I will be fine.

'I wasn't as nervous as I thought I would be, but it was still pretty weird to be headed out there (in Boise) on the court.

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

PBL

Rochester RazorSharks re-sign four - by Eurobasket News
The Rochester RazorSharks have re-signed guards Melvin Council (6'3''-G-82, college: Robert Morris), Jerice Crouch, Keith Friel (6'4''-G-77, college: Virginia) and forward Eric Walton (6'9''-F/C-79, college: San Jose St.), four out of their top six scorers from the 2011 season.

Council was last year's playoff MVP. Crouch won three league championships with the team. Friel has won four league championships with the RazorSharks and is the Premier Basketball League's all-time leading scorer. Walton played for the RazorSharks in their inaugural season of 2006, then spent time playing in Japan and Mexico before returning in 2010.

Courtesy of www.democratandchronicle.com

Preds tab Keathley - by Eurobasket News
It didnt take long for the Sauk Valley Predators to find their man.

Mere days after Greg Ktistou resigned as the Premier Basketball League teams head coach because of medical reasons, the Preds announced the hiring of Kevin Keathley on Wednesday.

We got lucky to find such a great man so fast, Predators owner Brad Grenoble said. Hes a great basketball mind, but he also believes that the community comes first. That couldnt be a better fit for our mission statement.

Keathley was most recently the associate coach and advisor to the general manager of the South East Texas Mavericks in Beaumont, Texas. The Mavs won the 2010 All American Basketball Association championship with an overall record of 27-4. Keathley was named the 2010 ABA Associate Coach of the Year.

Keathley, who never posted a losing record during 10 seasons as a coach on either the college or professional level, has helped 32 players play overseas and has placed upwards of 10 players in the NBA D-League, according to Grenoble.

What Keathley is best known for is his teams run-and-gun style of play.

He says hell run, run, and then hell run some more, Grenoble said. Hell bring an exciting style of play that folks havent seen around here.

Thats exactly how our team was built when the organization was bringing guys in, said Predators guard Jeremiah Box, who played two seasons at Sauk Valley Community College before two seasons at Emporia State University and another overseas in Lebanon. Were going to be fast from the 1 to 5 position. Thats how I like to play get up and down the floor.

Grenoble says the Predators received 32 applications for the position. They expect Keathley to arrive by the time the teams practices begin in two weeks.

The Predators open their season Jan. 6 against the Indiana Diesel at 6:30 p.m. at Sterling High School.

Courtesy of www.saukvalley.com

Gunners finalizing roster as season approaches - by Eurobasket News
The final roster is being prepared by Coach Wayne Casey and his staff in preparation for the Charleston Gunners' 2012 season opener on Jan. 6.

A number of players have already signed by the Gunners following the team 'Vet Camp' on Nov. 19.

Leading the way is shooting guard, and former West Virginia Mountaineer, Lionel Armstead. During his four-year career in Morgantown, spanning from 1999-2002, the 5-foot-11 Toledo, Ohio native averaged nearly 11 points per game and was one of the top 3-point shooters in Mountaineer history, ranking seventh all-time.

Other shooting guards who have already signed are 6-3 Chuka Iloegbu (6'3''-G-87, college: Coppin St.), a native of Brentwood, N.Y. that played his college ball at Coppin State, and former 6-2 West Virginia State guard and South Charleston native Will Collins.

At point guard, a couple of players have been signed -- Iloegbu's former Coppin State teammate Vince Goldsberry, a 6-0 Newark, Del. native, and 6-1 Kwan Waller, who played at Kentucky Wesleyan and is originally from Rockford, Ill.

The lone small forward signed thus far is 6-6 James Helton (6'6''-G/F-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: W.Virginia St.), a West Virginia State alum who hails from Columbus, Ohio.

At the other forward spot are an array of big men, some of whom could also see some time at the three-spot.

At 6-11, Lester Ferguson (6'10''-F, college: Robert Morris), from Baton Rouge, La., is the biggest of those big men to sign so far. Ferguson played college ball at Arkansas-Fort Smith, and later at NAIA power Robert Morris in the Chicago suburbs.

Joining him is 6-7 Jejuan Brown (6'7''-F-86, college: Arkansas St.) of Biloxi, Miss., who competed at Vanderbilt and Arkansas State, and Jamaal Caterina, who played at American University and New Hampshire before returning to his hometown of Portland to play at Southern Maine.

Ibrahim Marone (6'6''-C), 6-9 from Troutwood, Ohio and formerly of the University of Charleston, will also be fighting for time at power forward along with 6-10 James Stewart from Delaware.

Additional players are expected to sign in the coming days.

The Gunners tip-off their regular season at Dayton on Jan. 6 before playing their home opener Jan. 8 against those same Dayton Air Strikers at St. Albans High School. The team is currently working on scheduling preseason games.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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

POLAND

Bogavac number one in PLK for round 13 - by Eurobasket News
Serbian swingman Slavisa Bogavac (200-G/F-80, agency: BeoExcell) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Slask Wroclaw, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 31-year old player was the main contributor (37 points, eight rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat PBG Basket (#11, 3-9) in overtime 106-101. Slask Wroclaw is placed at 7th position in Polish PLK. Slask Wroclaw is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 6-6 record. In the team's last game Bogavac had a remarkable 76.9% from 2-point range. It was one of impressive evenings for him as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Slavisa Bogavac averages this season 10.0ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old Ivorian point guard Walter Hodge (183-PG-86) of Zastal ZG. Hodge had a very good evening with 26 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists. Bad luck as Zastal ZG was edged by slightly higher-ranked Trefl Sopot (#4, 8-4) 89-87. This loss caused Zastal ZG to drop to 5th position in Round 10. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 7-4 record is not bad and everything may still change. Hodge is a newcomer at Zastal ZG, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.2ppg (#3). He also recorded 6.0 assists per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was Serbian guard Djordje Micic (195-G-83) of PBG Basket (#11). Micic scored 25 points and passed eight assists. Despite Micic's great performance PBG Basket lost 101-106in overtime to the higher-ranked Slask Wroclaw (#7, 6-6). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. PBG Basket can only dream about fighting for top spots in . They have rather bad season and 3-9 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Micic he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Micic has individually a great season in Poland. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 5.1apg (9th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lukasz Koszarek (187-G-84) of Trefl Sopot - 29 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Walter Hodge (183-PG-86) of Zastal ZG - 23 points, 8 rebounds and 10 assists
6. Jessie Sapp (191-G-86) of Kotwica - 22 points, 2 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Krzysztof Sulima (202-C-90) of LKS Lodz - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Krzysztof Szubarga (182-G-84) of Anwil - 17 points, 2 rebounds and 7 assists
9. Damian Kulig (205-F/C-87) of PBG Basket - 23 points and 6 rebounds
10. Stefhon Hannah (185-G-85) of AZS Koszalin - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists

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

Standings - DBE

PLK Standings

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

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Lukasz KOSZAREK
  Trefl S.
  (187-G-84)
  Avg: 18.8

1. Koszarek, Trefl S.	18.8
2. Edwards, Anwil	18.3
3. Hodge, Zastal ZG	17.2
4. Archibeque, LKS L.	16.7
5. Montgomery, AZS K.	16.6
6. Lawal, Zastal ZG	16.5
7. Miller, Siarka J.	16.4
8. Kulig, PBG Basket	16.0
9. Reese, AZS Koszal.	15.9
10. Hannah, AZS K.	15.9

Rebounds Per Game

Gani LAWAL
  Zastal ZG
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 11.7

1. Lawal, Zastal ZG	11.7
2. Harris, Kotwica	10.7
3. Archibeque, LKS L.	10.2
4. Burgess, Trefl S.	9.6
5. Edwards, Anwil	7.8
6. Bigus, AZS Koszalin	7.6
7. Doaks, Siarka J.	7.0
8. Turek, Trefl Sopot	6.5
9. Leonczyk, Energa	6.2
10. Mladenovic, Slask	6.1

Assists Per Game

Robert SKIBNIEWSKI
  Slask W.
  (182-G-83)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Skibniewski, Slask	6.8
2. Szubarga, Anwil	6.0
3. Hodge, Zastal ZG	6.0
4. Wilczek, AZS P.	5.8
5. Miller, Siarka J.	5.7
6. Sapp, Kotwica	5.5
7. Koszarek, Trefl S.	5.4
8. Moore, PGE Turow	5.2
9. Micic, PBG Basket	5.1
10. Milicic, AZS K.	5.1

Steals Per Game

Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Szubarga, Anwil	2.2
2. Cesnauskis, Energa	1.8
3. Skibniewski, Slask	1.8
4. Koszarek, Trefl S.	1.7
5. Moore, PGE Turow	1.5
6. Hinson, Energa C.	1.4
7. Smorawinski, PBG B.	1.3
8. Mokros, AZS P.	1.3
9. Hodge, Zastal ZG	1.3
10. Sapp, Kotwica	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Chris BURGESS
  Trefl S.
  (209-C-79)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Burgess, Trefl S.	1.7
2. Harris, Kotwica	1.5
3. Lawal, Zastal ZG	1.4
4. Morrison, Energa C.	1.4
5. Barycz, Siarka J.	1.4
6. Lauderdale, PGE T.	1.3
7. Kesicki, Kotwica	1.3
8. Mladenovic, Slask	1.2
9. Edwards, Anwil	1.0
10. Lichodzijews., PB.	0.8

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

PORTUGAL

Interview with Anthonio Herrera - Barreirense CEPSA - by Hugo Carvalho
Interview with the new coach of FC Barreirense, Antonio Herrera, who has left a mark in the Portuguese League with a magnificent start.

You said at the beginning being in the Portuguese league was a step forward in your coaching career. You still feel the same now?
A.H: I think so. I am a young coach who still has a lot to learn. For me to be in Portugal is a great professional and personal experience.

Although we are still at an early stage of the competition, what is your opinion about the quality of the league? What surprised by the positive and negative?
AH: For me it was important to have more teams in the LPB and was also important to have more portuguese players playing in their teams.

Are you satisfied with the conditions that you found in Barreirense?
AH: Barreirense is a great team. I'm pleasantly surprised with the ability to work and knowledge of the directors and all coaches working in the club from the professional team to the training of youngs.

You said also that one of your goals in Barreirense Cepsa is to help young people to grow. Do you feel that you have achieved it?
AH: Before coming to Barreirense I saw every games of the senior team and some of the SUB20 from last season. In my opinion, our young people have improved in many aspects, for this was essentially his great attitude and desire to grow.

Barreirense is the youngest team in the league. You feel that you are able to guide athletes with flights higher than the Portuguese League?
AH: We have a young team with an average age below 22 years. They know they have excellent qualities to reach as high as they want but it must be willing to work every day and believe the work we are developing it and I know they are.

Several players have said that Barreirense Cepsa is the hardest working team. Are you pleased with the response of the squad at your job requirement?
AH: Actually I do not know if we are the hardest working team but I believe that no one works harder than us. The players have adapted quickly to new methods of work and I'm very happy with the response they are giving in their daily work.

Antonio Tavares is the most experienced player in the team. It has been the reference model and ideal for the growth of younger players?
AH: Antonio is the key to our young people can grow and improve is a great privilege for everyone to have a player like Tavares in the team.

In Portugal the games have few public. Do you believe that winning will bring more people to the Pavilion Luis de Carvalho?
AH: I think our fans like our style of play because they see that every game the players left everything, played with great intensity and seeking to make the show. I am convinced that people who have watched the Barreirense games have enjoyed our basketball. It is important that our fans watch the games when they enjoy the show but also understand that our team is young and needs time to achieve certain goals.

And the level of training of the young, there are large differences between work that is done in Spain and Portugal?
A.H: I did not find major differences.

Barreirense CEPSA

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

ROMANIA

Galil Gilboa stays perfect in BIBL - by Eurobasket News
BIBL, Round 4: Timisoara - Galil Gilboa 76-83

Galil Gilboa demonstrated another great performance in Balkan league. This time the Israeli squad handed 76-83 home loss to Romanian Timisoara. Galil Gilboa stays on top of Group A with perfect 4-0 record. On the other side Timisoara dropped to 1-3. The guests were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 18-14 Timisoara's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 83-76 at the end of the game. Galil Gilboa dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Timisoara's 34. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. The winners were led by center Ido Kozikaro (203-C-78) who scored that evening 17 points and 6 rebounds (perfect from the field making all seven shots !!!) and American Romeo Travis (200-PF-84, college: Akron) supported him with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin (189-G-77) allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 24 points and 6 rebounds by Croatian swingman Ivan Siriscevic (198-G/F-87) did not help to save the game for Timisoara. American forward Dominique Archie (200-F-87, college: S.Carolina) added 16 points and 11 rebounds for lost side. Five Galil Gilboa and four Timisoara players scored in double figures. Galil Gilboa's next round opponent will be Torus Skopje (#4) at home. Timisoara will play against Mornar Bar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Timisoara: I.Siriscevic 24+6reb, D.Archie 16+11reb+1ast, B.Popescu 14+5reb+2ast, Z.Jovanovic 10+2reb+1ast, D.Paltinisanu 6+4reb+1ast, B.Cuic 3+3reb+6ast
Galil Gilboa: I.Kozikaro 17+6reb, J.Jones 12+1reb+1ast, R.Travis 12+6reb+4ast, C.Allen 11+1reb+5ast, C.Thomas 10+5reb+4ast, A.Gordon 9

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

RUSSIA

Dramir Zibirov gets MVP of the Week award for Superleague - by Eurobasket News
Former international point guard Dramir Zibirov (187-PG-86) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Ataman and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Superleague Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 25-year old playmaker had the game-high 26 points adding five rebounds and four assists for Ataman in his team's victory, helping them to beat Sojuz Zaretchny (#9, 1-8) 74-68. Ataman is placed at 2nd position in Superleague. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Ataman will need more victories to improve their 7-2 record. In the team's last game Zibirov had a remarkable 55.6% from 2-point range. He turned to be Ataman's top player in his first season with the team. Zibirov has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (4th best: 14.1ppg), assists (3rd best: 4.4apg) and averages solid 3.1spg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old former international forward Oleg Bartunov (197-F-85, agency: RIZO) of Rjazan. Bartunov impressed basketball fans with 25 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. It was enough for Rjazan to edge slightly lower-ranked Ruskon-Mord. (#7, 3-6) by 3 points 72-69. Rjazan's 6th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-5 record. Bartunov is a newcomer at Rjazan and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was former international forward Dmitri Nikolaev (200-F-83) of top-ranked Ural Ekaterinb.. Nikolaev scored 18 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Ural Ekaterinb., leading his team to a 76-70 win against the lower-ranked Severstal (#5, 5-7). Ural Ekaterinb. confirms their top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 11 victories and 3 lost games. Nikolaev has a great season in Russia. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.1rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Yaroslav Grebelnyy (185-PG-86) of Severstal - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Nikola Lepojevic (199-F-82) of Ural Ekaterinb. - 27 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Dmitriy Ponosov (220-C-84) of Sojuz Zaretchny - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Anatoliy Goritskov (211-C/F-83) of Severstal - 9 points and 11 rebounds
8. Anton Glazunov (182-G-86) of Ural Ekaterinb. - 13 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Aleksei Vzdykhalkin (190-G-85) of Rjazan - 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Roman Semerninov (200-F-81) of Ruskon-Mord. - 8 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists

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

CSKA Moscow stays unbeaten in Euroleague - by Eurobasket News
Brose Baskets - CSKA 78-81

CSKA Moscow kept the perfect score after seven games of the Euroleague regular season. The Russian powerhouse grabbed 78-81 victory in Bamberg on Wednesday night thanks to buzzer beater triple by Milos Teodosic (195-G-87). Of course, the Moscow team stays No.1 in Group B and they already booked a spot for Top 16. Brose Baskets slipped to 2-5 after this meeting. Nenad Krstic (213-C-83, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) top-scored in CSKA with 20 points, while Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) added 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Alexey Shved (5 rebs) and a game hero Milos Teodosic (5 as) had 14 and 12 points respectively. For the hosts, Marcus Slaughter (204-C/F-85, college: San Diego St.) netted 21 points. Anthony Leon Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) (6 rebs) and Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) had 11 and 10 points. Quarters: 18-25, 19-19, 25-23, 16-14. CSKA Moscow waits Zagreb next week, while Brose Baskets will travel to Malaga.

Brose Baskets: Marcus Slaughter 21, Anthony Leon Tucker 11+6 boards, Anton Gavel 10
CSKA: Nenad Krstic 20, Viktor Khryapa 19+7 boards+5 as, Alexey Shved 14+5 boards, Milos Teodosic 12+5 as

Standings - Superleague B

Superleague Standings

1. Ural Ekaterinb.		11-3
2. Ataman		8-2
3. Univ.Surgut		7-3
4. TEMP-SUMZ		6-4
5. Rjazan		5-5
6. Severstal		5-7
7. Ruskon-Mord.		3-7
8. Spartak V.		2-8
9. Sojuz Zaretchny		1-9

Stats Leaders - Superleague B

Points Per Game

Nikola LEPOJEVIC
  Ural E.
  (199-F-82)
  Avg: 22

1. Lepojevic, Ural E.	22.0
2. Ageev, Ruskon-M.	16.1
3. Gordon, Ural E.	15.9
4. Pushkin, Sojuz Z.	13.8
5. Zibirov, Ataman	13.8
6. Kuznetsov, Ruskon.	13.0
7. Lekavicius, Univ.S.	12.7
8. Vzdykhalkin, Rjazan	11.7
9. Vorotnikov, Ataman	11.6
10. Sotnikov, TE.	11.5

Rebounds Per Game

Andrey PETUKHOV
  Spart.
  (204-F-86)
  Avg: 8.6

1. Petukhov, Spart.	8.6
2. Ivlev, Rjazan	7.7
3. Ponosov, Sojuz Z.	7.6
4. Trushkin, Spart.	6.5
5. Semerninov, Ruskon.	6.2
6. Nikolaev, Ural E.	6.1
7. Lekavicius, Univ.S.	5.9
8. Zaykin, TE.	5.8
9. Kuznetsov, Ruskon.	5.6
10. Goritskov, Sever.	5.6

Assists Per Game

Linas LEKAVICIUS
  Univ.Sur.
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Lekavicius, Univ.S.	5.5
2. Zibirov, Ataman	5.0
3. Glazunov, Ural E.	4.4
4. Vokhmianine, TEMP-.	4.1
5. Slepukha, Sojuz Z.	4.1
6. Bartunov, Rjazan	4.1
7. Aleksandrov, Sojuz	3.4
8. Hloponin, Univ.Sur.	2.9
9. Isakov, Ural E.	2.8
10. Korchagin, Rjazan	2.8

Steals Per Game

Dramir ZIBIROV
  Ataman
  (187-PG-86)
  Avg: 3

1. Zibirov, Ataman	3.0
2. Lekavicius, Univ.S.	2.7
3. Bartunov, Rjazan	1.8
4. Ageev, Ruskon-M.	1.8
5. Semerninov, Ruskon.	1.7
6. Aleksandrov, Sojuz	1.6
7. Glazunov, Ural E.	1.6
8. Krivko, Ruskon-M.	1.5
9. Smygin, Ataman	1.5
10. Babitchev, Spart.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Dmitriy PONOSOV
  Sojuz Z.
  (220-C-84)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Ponosov, Sojuz Z.	1.8
2. Gresev, Ataman	1.5
3. Varlamov, Ural E.	1.4
4. Goritskov, Sever.	1.3
5. Tsvetkov, Severst.	1.2
6. Beliaev, Univ.Surg.	1.0
7. Ekimov, Univ.Sur.	0.9
8. Petukhov, Spart.	0.9
9. Babitchev, Spart.	0.8
10. Polyakov, Severst.	0.8

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

SERBIA

BKK Radnicki adds G Nikola Knezevic - by Eurobasket News
Nikola Knezevic (190-G-90, college: California) is a new member of BKK Radnicki. The 21-year-old guard signed a deal for rest of the season. Knezevic spent the last one with Hemofarm Vrsac. He appeared 13 times for them in Serbian league averaging something less then 2 ppg. He also got a chance in few Adriatic league and EuroCup games. Nikola Knezevic graduated at the University of California in 2010. He had limited playing time with the school. In the past, Nikola Knezevic played for Beovuk. BKK Radnicki currently has 7-2 record in A League. They are alone on the second place.

Rilski Sportist gets bigger with Sasa Mijajlovic - by Eurobasket News
Sasa Mijajlovic (211-C-80, college: Hutchinson CC) will continue his career in Bulgaria. The Serbian big guy signed a deal with Rilski Sportist for rest of the season. Mijajlovic started it with Sloga Kraljevo. He appeared 8 times in Serbian league averaging 15.1 points and 6.8 rebounds. Last season, Sasa Mijajlovic changed three teams. He started with Slovenian Zlatorog Lasko, but they parted ways in December. Soon after that Mijajlovic joined Sloga Kraljevo and later signed with Montenegrin Ulcinj. He helped Ulcinj reach the Playoff Semifinals in Montenegro and Quarterfinals in BIBL. In the past, Mijajlovic played on Cyprus and in Romania. He also has experience from Slovenian and Bosnian leagues.

Levski Sofia jumps to 4-0 in BIBL - by Eurobasket News
BIBL, Round 4: Levski Sofia - Napredak 74-72

Another Bulgarian team celebrated in Round Four of the Balkan league. It is Levski who escaped with 74-72 home win against Napredak. The Sophia team jumped to 4-0 after this meeting and kept the first place in Group B. Napredak faced with third loss this season. Visitors cut a 14-point halftime deficit to two at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Hall (185-G-85, college: Colorado) who helped to win the game recording 22 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74) contributed with 16 points for the winners. Power forward Aco Mandic (204-C/F-84) replied with 24 points and 7 rebounds and Slaven Cupkovic (205-PF-88) added 19 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Napredak Rubin. Levski Sofia have a solid four-game winning streak. Levski Sofia will play against Feni Indistrija (#3) in Kavadarci in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Napredak Rubin will play at home against Ulcinj in Ulcijn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Napredak: A.Mandic 24+7reb, S.Cupkovic 19+9reb+1ast, M.Radonjic 11+5reb+6ast, M.Puzic 6+4reb+2ast, V.Radmanovac 5+10reb+3ast, A.Lekic 5+3ast
Levski Sofia: M.Hall 22+7reb+2ast, H.Dimitrov 16+4reb+3ast, Z.Georgiev 15+1reb+3ast, D.Anguelov 7+2reb+1ast, J.Bozov 5+3reb+3ast, P.Ivanov 5+3reb+3ast

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

SINGAPORE

Singapore Slingers ink three players - by Eurobasket News
Singapore Slingers renewed contracts with three local players. Lim ShengYu (190-F-90), Wei Jie Oh Desmond and Wong Wei Long (172-G-88) signed new deals with the team.
Lim ShengYu will enter his second season with the Slingers. Last season the forward averaged 0.9 points per game in ASEAN League. Lim ShengYu is the member of Singapore National Team. He participated at SEA Games in Jakarta. His stats read 6.0 points and 4.3 rebounds per game in Indonesia.
Wei Jie Oh Desmond will start his third consecutive season with the Slingers. The forward delivered 3.8 points and 1.4 rebounds per game last season. He also played for Singapore at 2011 SEA Games. Wei Jie Oh Desmond posted 5.0 points, 2.0 boards and 1.3 assists in Jakarta.
Wong Wei Long tallied 1.1 points per appearance last season. The guard shone bring for Singapore at 2011 SEA Games. His stats read 17.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 steal per appearance.

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

SLOVENIA

Standings - 1A

Telemach Standings

1. Helios		8-0
2. Elektra		6-1
3. Zlatorog		5-3
4. Sentjur		5-3
5. Maribor Messer		3-4
6. Rogaska		3-4
7. Geoplin Slovan		3-4
8. Polzela		3-5
9. Parklji		1-6
10. LTHcast Mercator		0-7
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, Zlatorog	17.7
2. Maric, Sentjur	16.6
3. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.	16.4
4. Prepelic, Helios	16.3
5. Nelson, Sentjur	16.0
6. Rizvic, Parklji	15.6
7. Drzic, Sentjur	15.0
8. Pasalic, Helios	14.4
9. Rembert, Sentjur	14.4
10. Mahkovic, LTHcas.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Milos MILJKOVIC
  Rogaska
  (204-F/C-84)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Miljkovic, Rogaska	9.6
2. Pajic, Geoplin Slo.	9.6
3. Rizvic, Parklji	8.6
4. Djugum, Geoplin	8.4
5. Nuhanovic, Elektra	7.9
6. Pasalic, Helios	7.1
7. Nelson, Sentjur	6.9
8. Mucic, Maribor	6.7
9. Maric, Sentjur	6.4
10. Soldo, LTHcast	5.6

Assists Per Game

Luka RUPNIK
  Geoplin .
  (184-PG-93)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Rupnik, Geoplin	6.7
2. Rembert, Sentjur	5.5
3. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	4.9
4. Jovanovic, Maribo.	4.4
5. Gay, Helios	4.0
6. Hohler, Polzela	3.7
7. Tomic, Rogaska	3.6
8. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	3.5
9. Prepelic, Helios	3.4
10. Panic, Zlatorog	3.3

Steals Per Game

Nejc KOBAL
  Parklji
  (183-PG-91)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Kobal, Parklji	2.9
2. Mezek, LTHcast	2.9
3. Lelic, Elektra	2.4
4. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	2.3
5. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	2.0
6. Maric, Sentjur	1.8
7. Rembert, Sentjur	1.8
8. Panic, Zlatorog	1.7
9. Zagorc, Elektra	1.7
10. Podvrsnik, Polzela	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Nuhanovic, Elektra	1.6
2. Djugum, Geoplin	1.1
3. Nelson, Sentjur	1.1
4. Sviridov, Polzela	1.1
5. Sebic, Sentjur	1.1
6. Guna, Elektra	1.0
7. Omic, Zlatorog	0.9
8. Cresnar, Helios	0.9
9. Primorac, Sentjur	0.9
10. Dobravec, Geopli.	0.7

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

SOUTH KOREA

Bensons huge night lifts Promy over Thunders - by Kevin Campigotto

While the Wonju Dongbu Promy continued their bad habit of playing to the level of their competition, center Rod Benson (207-F/C-84, college: California) had a fantastic night putting up 40 points and 11 rebounds in a 86-76 win over the Seoul Samsung Thunders.

Wonju led for the entire game and appeared to be several times during the game but continued to let Soul back in it. Seoul was only down six points with a few minutes remaining in the game when Wonju took control again and went on another run. Eric Sandrin who had 22 points, and six rebounds and 8 assists led Seoul. Wonjus Kim Joo-Sung played the role of facilitator, picking up 7 rebounds but also netting 20 points. Seouls new import Ira Clark had 22 points, 6 rebounds and played well despite the many errors made by his teammates. Seoul recently changed foreigners, ousting Peter John Ramos but if this game is any indication the play of the foreigners is the least of Seouls problems.
Seoul committed 16 turnovers, and Wonju had 6 more assists and rebounds than the Thunder. Both teams shot 4 of 14 from 3-point range.
Next up for Wonju is a Saturday showdown with rivals KCC.

Seoul Samsung Thunder's Ira Clark Defies His Age to Succeed - by Jeff Liebsch
When the Seoul Samsung Thunders planned to replace Peter John Ramos (222-C-85), many analysts had figured Jasper Johnson (201-C-83, college: Delta St.), or perhaps another big man to replace him. Few, if any, had pegged Ira Clark (203-C/F-75, college: Texas).

The uber-athletic, 36-year-old Clark, returned to the league, after last playing for the Daegu Orions in 2005/06. He has been a part of three Turkish team champions: with 2002-03 Turkish Basketball League Champions Efes Pilsen, in 2005-06 with lkerspor, and finally in 2006-07 with Fenerbahe, as well as stints in the Philippines, Japan, Greece, Russia, Italy, and the Middle East.

He last played in Australia for the Gold Coast Blaze, where he finished the season averaging 17 points and seven rebounds in 24 appearances, winning the teams Most Valuable Player, and receiving All-NBL second team honors.

But as Clark notes, basketball is a business, and things didn't work out the way he hoped, even though he enjoyed his time in the NBL, and Australia, where his family is also from.

'That league is a very competitive league and it fits my style of play. It's a run and gun type of game and very physical. I really enjoyed playing under my friend and coach Joey Wright. I just think that when it comes to signing imports maybe they should change the rules because I was unable to get the type of contract I hoped for especially after receiving MVP honors,' he said.

But what is the NBL's loss, is the KBL's gain.

Clark has averaged 21.5 points, 12.5 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, though theyve lost all four games since his return to the KBL. Teammate Eric Sandrin (206-F/C-78, college: Seattle Pacific) attributes that though to youth and changing players midway through the season.

'We got a really young team. We need a lot of work in a lot of areas. We changed the import, and it took us a long time to get used to our old one, and now we got to get used to the new one,' said Sandrin. (206-F/C-78, college: Seattle Pacific)

Clark's ability as a scorer and the ability to penetrate the basket have always been strong points, but his athleticism, even at age 36, is what makes him a special player to watch. And as for his second go-around in the league, he's happy to be back.

'Being back in the KBL has been great. I love playing here, this is one of the most professional leagues I have played in. Especially for a player like myself, who takes pride in professionalism. Everything you need to be at the top of your game is here,' he said. 'The teams in Korea really give you the support you need to be great. I am very familiar with the culture and my son was born here, so it was exciting for me to return to his birth place. I can't wait for my family to arrive so he will have the chance to return also.'

After signing, questions abounded about his age and fitness, as many of the imports are much younger, and play a physical style of play.

'If you know me, my history and the type of player I am, then you know that I am one of the hardest working players in the game,' he said. 'I am consistently working on my game and my body. Although most guys my age and younger are breaking down or broken down, I am not. I still feel really good and feel if a player keeps a certain work ethic and takes care of their body they can go as long as they want to.'

Clark takes inspiration from NBA stars Jason Kidd and Grant Hill as good examples.

'These guys go through a grueling 82 game season plus the playoffs and against the very best in the world. How do they do it? The same way I intend to - hard work,' he said. 'Many people are very surprised when playing with me or against me to find out my age. And I feel I can set an example for any young player that if you can do the right things you too can play as long as I have and hope to.'

Though Samsung is currently sitting in ninth place, Clark feels that there is a chance for the season to turn around.

'I think that this team is a very good team, just in an unfortunate situation of trying to get chemistry. There is still a lot of season left to go and with the youth of this team, I think we will be great once everyone buys into what the coach is teaching. Hopefully, the Samsung team and I can turn this season around and get some big wins so we can make it to the playoffs. I know I will continue to give my all,' he said.

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

SPAIN

Aloysius Anagonye on try-out with Valladolid - by Eurobasket News
Valladolid invited Aloysius Anagonye (203-F-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Michigan St.) for a try-out period. The forward is meant to replace injured Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca. Aloysius Anagonye spent the last season in Slovenia. The forward played for Union Olimpija. He tallied 3.7 points and 2.0 rebounds per game in Adriatic League. In Euroleague his stats read 2.4 points and 2.2 rebounds per appearance. Aloysius Anagonye delivered 6.1 points and 3.2 rebounds in Slovenian League. Aloysius Anagonye is not new to Spain. The forward used to play for Joventut Badalona and Ford Burgos. He also had stints in Italy, D-League, France and Israel. Aloysius Anagonye was the member of Nigerian National Team back in 2006-09 seasons.

Bilbao hands 97-75 loss to Nancy - by Eurobasket News
Gescrap BB - Nancy 97-75

Valuable home win for Bilbao in Round Seven of the Eurolegaue regular season. The Spanish team celebrated 97-75 victory joining Nancy with 3-4 record in Group A. Nancy was better than Bilbao in Round Two with 'only' 87-73. Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) led the hosts in scoring with 15 points. Janis Blums (190-G-82) and Marko Banic (205-F-84) helped with 12 points each. On the other side, Jamal Shuler (191-G-86) had 19 and Adrien Moerman (203-F/C-88) netted 16 pts. Third scorer in Nancy was Akinlolu Akingbala (208-C-83, college: Clemson) with 9 points (5 rebs). There was no Nicolas Batum in Nancy's roster as the NBA lockout is over. Bilbao shined in the second half to win this game with comfortable 97-75. Quarters: 22-22, 18-17, 29-23, 28-13. In the next round, Bilbao will host Cantu. Nancy will meet Fenerbahce Ulker also at home.

Bilbao: Alex Mumbru 15, Janis Blums 12, Marko Banic 12
Nancy: Jamal Shuler 19, Adrien Moerman 16, Akinlolu Akingbala 9+5 boards

Real Madrid officially signs Kyle Singler - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid officially announced signing of Kyle Singler (203-F-88, college: Duke) for rest of the season. The rookie forward arrives from Alicante. Singler decided to stay in Spain this season, despite the NBA lockout is over. He appeared 9 times in Liga Endesa with Alicante averaging 15 points and 3.6 rebounds. Kyle Singler is a product of Duke University, where he graduated this year. He had 16.9 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.6 apg for his school as a senior. Singler helped Duke to win the NCAA title in 2010. He had 17.7 ppg, 7 rpg and 2.4 apg in 40 games that season. The Detroit Pistons selected Singler as 33rd overall pick at the latest NBA draft. Singler will play his last game with Alicante in the Spanish League this weekend and he will move to Madrid starting next week.

Zalgiris grabs 67-65 thriller win against Unicaja - by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris - Unicaja 67-65

Zalgiris is alive. They grabbed 67-65 home victory against Unicaja on Wednesday night joining Brose Baskets and Zagreb with 2-5 record in Group B of the Euroleague regular season. At the same time, Unicaja dropped to 3-4 record in this pool. Free throws by Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) and a dunk by Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) allowed Zalgiris to win the game, as Kristaps Valters (190-G-81) missed a shot in the game's final possession. His driving shot hit the rim seconds before the final buzzer. Weems led the hosts with double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Marko Popovic and Ty Lawson (180-PG-87, college: N.Carolina) helped with 11 and 10 points respectively. In Unicaja, Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) collected 15 points and 6 rebs. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) (9 rebs) and Kristaps Valters (6 as) stopped to 12 points each. Quarters: 19-11, 16-13, 15-18, 17-23. Zalgiris waits Panathinaikos in the next round. Unicaja will host Brose Baskets.

Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 18+11 boards, Marko Popovic 11, Ty Lawson 10
Unicaja: Gerald Fitch 15+6 boards, Joel Freeland 12+9 boards, Kristaps Valters 12+6 as

Torres' 21 points give him LEB Silver Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
32-year old center Ismael Torres (202-C-79) put on an amazing game in the last round for Andorra and receives a Eurobasket.com LEB Silver Player of the Week award for round 8.
He had the game-high 21 points adding two rebounds for Andorra in his team's victory, helping them to outclass Ourense (5-2) with 38-point margin 91-53. Andorra is placed at 3rd position in LEB Silver. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Andorra will need more victories to improve their 5-2 record. Torres turned to be Andorra's top player in his first season with the team. Torres has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (9th best: 14.9ppg) and averages solid 64.1% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Olasumbo Atoyebi (203-C/F-88) of Lan Mobel ISB. He is Nigerian in his first season at Lan Mobel ISB. In the last game Atoyebi recorded impressive double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Lan Mobel ISB lost that game 70-82 to slightly higher-ranked Prat Juventud (#7, 4-4). This loss caused Lan Mobel ISB to drop to 8th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-4 record. Atoyebi is a newcomer at Lan Mobel ISB and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.4ppg (#3). He also registered 8.4 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Georvys Elias (199-F-81) of Tenerife (#10). Elias scored 23 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Tenerife, leading his team to a 81-55 easy win against slightly lower-ranked Gandia Basquet (#12, 2-6). The chances of Tenerife not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 5 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Elias could try to bring Tenerife's a little bit higher in the standings. Elias has individually a great season in Spain. After only 8 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.9ppg (5th best) and rebounds with 8.5rpg (3rd best). He also has 1.3bpg and FGP: 55.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Sammy Monroe (198-F-85) of Tenerife - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Ignacio Guigou (186-PG-91) of Tenerife - 15 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists
6. Albert Ventura (196-F-92) of Prat Juventud - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Pablo Sanchez (197-G/F-81) of Andorra - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Luis Parejo (196-G-89) of Avila - 26 points and 4 rebounds
9. Edward Cage (203-F/C-78) of Andorra - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Andrais Thornton (203-C-85) of Plasencia - 13 points and 9 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)

Darren Phillip claims LEB Gold weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced British-American Darren Phillip (201-F-78) had an amazing evening in the last round for Burgos and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com LEB Gold Player of the Week award for round 11.
The 33-year old forward had the game-high 26 points adding eight rebounds for Burgos in his team's victory, helping them to beat La Palma (#4, 7-4) 97-85. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Burgos maintains the 3rd position in Spanish LEB Gold. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Burgos will need more victories to improve their 8-3 record. Phillip turned to be Burgos' top player in his first season with the team. Fairfield University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Phillip is in league's top in points (8th best: 16.9ppg), rebounds (5th best: 8.5rpg) and averages solid 58.4% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 29-year old American power forward Cristopher Mortellaro (206-F/C-82) of Leon. Mortellaro impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds. It was enough for Leon to edge the higher-ranked Palencia (#6, 6-4) by 1 point 88-87. Leon's 13th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-6 record. Mortellaro is a newcomer at Leon and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Ignacio Ordin (183-PG-78) of Girona (#9). Ordin got into 30-points club by scoring exactly 30 points in the last round. He was a key player of Girona, leading his team to a 88-86overtime win against the lower-ranked CB Tarragona (#16, 4-7). The chances of Girona ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 6 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Ordin could help Girona to bring them higher in the standings. Ordin has a very solid season. In 11 games in Spain he scored 14.7ppg. He also has FGP: 50.8% and 3PT: 45.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lucas Sikma (203-F-89) of La Palma - 21 points and 8 rebounds
5. Oliver Arteaga (211-C-83) of Menorca - 13 points and 10 rebounds
6. Rolands Freimanis (207-C/F-88) of Girona - 20 points and 11 rebounds
7. Juan Aguilar (188-G-88) of Burgos - 12 points, 3 rebounds and 12 assists
8. Shaun Green (203-F-87) of Mallorca - 19 points and 8 rebounds
9. Thomas Coleman (205-F/C-88) of Girona - 15 points and 11 rebounds
10. Nicolas Richotti (181-PG-86) of Canarias - 14 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists

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

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

SWEDEN

Stats Leaders - BasketEttan

Points Per Game

Binyam FEGHADU
  Jarva D.
  (195-G-89)
  Avg: 26.3

1. Feghadu, Jarva D.	26.3
2. Fitzgerald, Malbas	25.8
3. Banks, Taby	21.9
4. Nilsson, Orongo	20.3
5. Thorangen, Sanda	20.1
6. Sundstrom, Talje	19.1
7. Isaksson, Hogsbo	18.6
8. Rawlins, Up.	18.5
9. Bergstrom, Black.	18.1
10. Vukovic, Helsingb.	18.0

Rebounds Per Game

Andre NILSSON
  Orongo
  (204-F/C-84)
  Avg: 13

1. Nilsson, Orongo	13.0
2. Petkovski, Srbija	12.9
3. Rawlins, Up.	12.8
4. Hartmann, Akropol	11.4
5. Damjanovic, Nassjo	11.1
6. Flink, Helsingborg	10.0
7. Ali Hussein, LF Fu.	9.8
8. Urban, Eskilstuna	9.7
9. Eliassson, Solna B.	9.6
10. Vukovic, Helsingb.	9.6

Assists Per Game

John FITZGERALD
  Malbas
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 6

1. Fitzgerald, Malbas	6.0
2. Kovacek, Talje	5.5
3. Nouri, Blackeberg	5.5
4. Ghebremeskel, Eag.	5.3
5. Lundin, Taby	5.3
6. Wazzi, Nassjo	4.6
7. Panghulan, Black.	4.4
8. Masabe, Solna B.	4.3
9. Henriks, Brahe B.	4.3
10. Cedermarker, Srb.	4.1

Steals Per Game

John FITZGERALD
  Malbas
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Fitzgerald, Malbas	3.8
2. Feghadu, Jarva D.	3.4
3. Taylor, Eagles	3.3
4. Karovic, Eos	2.9
5. Hultman-Boye, Hag.	2.9
6. Wazzi, Nassjo	2.8
7. Strazdauskas, Hog.	2.7
8. Dawit, Fryshuset	2.7
9. Bankhead Ba., Ho.	2.6
10. Dilek, Fryshuset	2.6

Blocks Per Game

Andre NILSSON
  Orongo
  (204-F/C-84)
  Avg: 3

1. Nilsson, Orongo	3.0
2. Taylor, Eagles	2.5
3. Robinson, Brahe B.	2.1
4. Flink, Helsingborg	2.0
5. Bergstrom, Black.	1.5
6. Sinani, Malbas	1.4
7. Neffati, Norrkopi.	1.3
8. Hartmann, Akropol	1.3
9. Urban, Eskilstuna	1.3
10. Rawlins, Up.	1.3

Standings - BasketEttan

Basketettan Standings

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

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

TURKEY

Savanovic paces Anadolu Efes to valuable win in Charleroi - by Eurobasket News
Spirou Charleroi - Anadolu Efes 62-66

Anadolu Efes did a great job in Charleroi on Wednesday night. The Turkish squad grabbed 62-66 victory against the Belgian champ for 4-3 record in Group C of the Euroleague regular season. With this victory, Efes drastically increased its changes to reach the Top 16. On the other side, Charleroi dropped to 1-6 and still closes the standings in this pool. Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) paced Anadolu Efes to this important win collecting 16 points and 10 rebounds. He was the MVP with valuation 22. Stanko Barac (217-C-86) had 12 points and 5 rebs, while Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) netted 10 pts. In defeat, Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) delivered 21 points. Their second scorers were Andre Riddick (208-C-73, college: Kentucky) (10 rebs) and Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.) with 9 points each. Charleroi came to minus 5 with 34 seconds to go, but a ball-handling violation on Green doomed the home teams chances. And Vujacic iced the win from the line. Quarters: 14-18, 8-19, 21-15, 19-14. Anadolu Efes will host Armani Jeans Milano in the next round. Charleroi will play against Partizan in another home game.

Charleroi: Demond Mallet 21, Andre Riddick 9+10 boards, Christopher Hill 9
Anadolu Efes: Dusko Savanovic 16+10 boards, Stanko Barac 12+5 boards, Sasha Vujacic 10

Nelson's double-double lands him TB2L Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
26-year old forward Tyrone Nelson (206-F-85) put on an amazing game in the last round for Akhisar Bld and receives a Eurobasket.com TB2L Player of the Week award for round 11.
He had a double-double of 30 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Tire Gucu (#20, 2-8) 76-64. Akhisar Bld maintains the 3rd position in TB2L. They are still close to the very top. Akhisar Bld would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 8-2 record. It's Nelson's second year at Akhisar Bld and it's hard to imagine this team without him. New Mexico State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Nelson is league's best scorer averaging so far 24.6ppg. Nelson is in league's top in rebounds (5th best: 10.8rpg) and averages solid 2.1spg and 60.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Troy Barnies (200-F-89) of Istanbulspor. He is American forward in his first season at Istanbulspor. In the last game Barnies recorded impressive double-double of 23 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Istanbulspor was edged by the higher-ranked Pertevniyal (#14, 4-6) 89-88. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Istanbulspor keeps 17th position. 8 lost games are too many comparing to just two victories Istanbulspor managed to get this year. Barnies is a newcomer at Istanbulspor and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to center Marquise Gray (206-C-86) of Baskent Genclik (#16). Gray showcased his all-around game by recording 18 points, fourteen rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. Despite Gray's great performance Baskent Genclik lost 61-72 to the higher-ranked Istanbul B.B. (#11, 5-5). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Baskent Genclik can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-8 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Gray he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Gray has individually a great season in Turkey. After 10 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.4ppg (5th best) and rebounds with 11.0rpg (4th best). He also has 1.1bpg and FGP: 63.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Bruce Brown (213-C-83) of TED Istanbul - 20 points and 13 rebounds
5. Marko Kolaric (213-F/C-84) of Istanbul B.B. - 14 points and 14 rebounds
6. De Vaughn Washington (202-F-89) of Gelisim - 10 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Erdem Turetken (199-F-79) of Selcuk Univ. - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Arthur Johnson (206-F/C-81) of Maliye Milli - 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Cyrus Tate (203-F/C-85) of Final Genclik - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Osman Sirin (207-F-90) of Pertevniyal - 15 points and 7 rebounds

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

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

UKRAINE

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Randy CULPEPPER
  Fe.
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 19.6

1. Culpepper, Fe.	19.6
2. Solomon, Cherkasy	19.5
3. Burtt, Dnipro	19.4
4. King, BC Odessa	18.7
5. Guinn, Fe.	18.6
6. Deane, BC Odessa	18.1
7. Thomas, Dnipro	17.9
8. Green, Mykolaiv	17.6
9. Stojanovski, Cherk.	17.0
10. Davis, Kryvbasb.	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Vladan VUKOSAVLJEVIC
  Halych.
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.8

1. Vukosavljevi., Hal.	11.8
2. King, BC Odessa	10.3
3. Korniyenko, Dnipro	9.6
4. Davis, Kryvbasb.	9.3
5. Fraser, DniproAzot	8.9
6. Goodridge, BC Kyiv	8.4
7. Pecherov, Azovmash	8.2
8. Odufuwa, Halychyna	8.0
9. Coleman, Hoverla	7.8
10. Davis, Fe.	7.8

Assists Per Game

Derrick ZIMMERMAN
  BC Kyiv
  (191-G-81)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Zimmerman, BC Kyiv	6.4
2. Burtt, Dnipro	5.5
3. Mitchell, Khimik	5.4
4. Deane, BC Odessa	5.2
5. Ewing, Azovmash	5.1
6. Solomon, Cherkasy	4.9
7. Florence, Kryvbasb.	4.8
8. Butskyy, Fe.	4.8
9. Morovic, Halychyna	4.7
10. Ervin, BC Kyiv	4.7

Steals Per Game

Frederick HOUSE
  Dnipro
  (195-F-78)
  Avg: 2

1. House, Dnipro	2.0
2. Sirsnins, DniproAz.	1.9
3. Tiggs, Hoverla	1.8
4. Ewing, Azovmash	1.8
5. Curry, BC Donetsk	1.7
6. Chappell, Fe.	1.7
7. Miletic, Khimik	1.6
8. Nelson, BC Donetsk	1.6
9. Deane, BC Odessa	1.6
10. Mitchell, Khimik	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Daniel MCCLINTOCK
  Mykolaiv
  (212-C-77)
  Avg: 2.7

1. McClintock, Mykola.	2.7
2. King, BC Odessa	2.6
3. Goodridge, BC Kyiv	2.6
4. Davis, Kryvbasb.	2.3
5. Gorbenko, Dnipr.	1.9
6. Korniyenko, Dnipro	1.9
7. Coleman, Hoverla	1.5
8. Rizvic, Azovmash	1.5
9. Wallace, Halychyna	1.4
10. Hunter, Mykolaiv	1.4

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

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

Standings - Higher League

Higher League Standings

1. VolinBasket		11-1
2. Avantazh-Pol.		10-2
3. Musson		9-3
4. Pulsar		8-4
5. Aviastar		7-3
6. BK Kremen		6-6
7. Koksokh-Stal		4-8
8. Sportlitsey		2-10
9. Vinnitsky Zubry		1-9
10. Ternopil		0-12

Culpepper's 32-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
22-year old guard Randy Culpepper (182-G-89) put on an amazing game in the last round for Ferro-ZNTU and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
He had the game-high 32 points adding three assists for Ferro-ZNTU in his team's victory, helping them to crush Budivelnyk (#1, 11-3) with 21-point margin 99-78. Ferro-ZNTU maintains the 9th position in league. Ferro-ZNTU is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 7-7 record. In the team's last game Culpepper had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range and got four three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be Ferro-ZNTU's top player in his first season with the team. The Univ.of Texas at El Paso graduate has very impressive stats this year. Culpepper is league's best scorer averaging so far 19.6ppg. Culpepper is in league's top in and averages solid 56.6% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84) of BC Kyiv. He is American forward in his first season at BC Kyiv. In the last game Goodridge recorded impressive double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds. It was enough for BC Kyiv to edge the lower-ranked Halychyna (#13, 2-12) by 3 points 80-77. BC Kyiv's 8th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 8-6 record is not bad and everything may still change. Goodridge is a newcomer at BC Kyiv and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. Former La Salle University star Goodridge is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market.

Third place about best performers goes to center Shawn King (208-C-82) of BC Odessa (#6). King scored 18 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of BC Odessa, leading his team to a 97-79 easy win against the lower-ranked DniproAzot (#12, 2-12). BC Odessa needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 9 victories and 5 lost games. King has a great season in Ukraine. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.7ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 10.3rpg (2nd best). He also has 2.6bpg and FGP: 62.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84) of Halychyna - 26 points and 14 rebounds
5. Jeremy Chappell (191-G-87) of Ferro-ZNTU - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Willie Deane (188-PG-80) of BC Odessa - 18 points and 5 assists
7. Igor Zaytsev (210-F/C-89) of Azovmash - 19 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87) of Budivelnyk - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Maxym Korniyenko (205-F/C-87) of Dnipro - 15 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Derrick Low (188-PG-86) of Dnipro - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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

UNITED KINGDOM

Super Seven League Games Compliment BBL Cup Semi - by Paul Nilsen
While all eyes will be on tonights BBL Cup semi-final, there are also seven super BBL Championship games to savour.

Amidst the Cup fever, it has almost went unnoticed that both Newcastle Eagles and Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders face have an uphill struggle to emerge from an intense weekend with their unbeaten league records still intact.

They are the only two clubs in the league yet to lose a game and the Eagles must make the trip north of the border on Sunday to face old foes Glasgow Rocks and in-form Molten BBL Player Of The Month For November, Mychal Green who so nearly denied Fab Flournoy and his team a place in the last four of the Cup with a stunning quarter-final performance.

The last time the Eagles visited Kelvin Hall they lost in the BBL Trophy and no doubt they will want to extract revenge and rack up a seventh straight BBL Championship success. As for Rocks who currently lie in second place, a victory would take them to within just one loss of the Eagles and really put them in the thick of the title race.

Riders have just as difficult a task as they head to Devon to face UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders who will be eager to improve their slightly disappointing 2-2 record. Molten BBL Coach Of The Month Rob Paternostro will know Riders must contain the dangerous Jeremy Bell who is beginning to make Raiders tick and can really pour in the points while Paul Williams is averaging great numbers inside.

Two teams looking to make a push for the play-offs and overcome a tricky first couple of months or so of the season are Mersey Tigers and Durham Wildcats who locked horns recently with Tigers just coming out on top.

Tigers host Cheshire Jets in a north-west derby game tonight before heading to Worcester Wolves tomorrow who were left stunned midweek after crashing heavily at Prestige Homes MK Lions.

Perhaps BBL rookies Durham Wildcats have most reason to be hopeful they can improve their record since they have found themselves in some great positions this season but have not been able to quite seal the deal a fact not lost on coach Dave Elderkin .

He said, I think we're through phase one - I believe the guys now think they are a genuine BBL outfit, and they should think this because they are.
Twice we've been 10 points up on a serious contender and twice we've lost. We just need to make sure we know how to play and what to use when we next get into that position.

Wildcats host One Health Sharks Sheffield at Newton Aycliffe tomorrow and then head to Northgate on Sunday to face the Jets.
Last but by no means least, a refreshed and re-focused Guilford Heat will try to turn their season around after their nightmare 0-5 start in the BBL Championship with Worcester Wolves the first club to face their new look team at Surrey Sports Park.

Riders Sign Great Britain Captain Until Season End - by Paul Nilsen
Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders have finally got their man.

Great Britain captain Drew Sullivan (203-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Villanova) committed pen to paper to sign for the duration of the BBL season with the Riders, after being on a week by week contract with the Riders since mid October.

During that time the Riders are undefeated, and Sullivan has been averaging 15 points and 7 rebounds a game.

But he brings much more to the Riders, as Head Coach Rob Paternostro was quick to acknowledge, 'Drew is hugely experienced and is a winner, and he knows the BBL. We have a relatively young team with 3 BBL rookies in key positions, and I know they all appreciate the experience and insights Sullivan provides. He is very unselfish and makes big contributions at both ends of the court. We were very fortunate to pick him up.'

Riders fans have had to be patient though, as the Riders needed to find a package to keep Sullivan in the BBL.

That was the job of General Manager Russell Levenston, with a little help from the Chairman of Leicester Rider's Community Interest Company, Steve White.

'We needed to find support from Leicester's business community, and we are really pleased with how they responded. I have had a lot of support from a number of people, and the Club is very appreciative of all the help and support we are getting,' said Levenston.

'So the Club would like to give thanks and recognition to Jamie Lewis of Jamie Lewis Residential, Vic Sethi of Anand Daewoo International, Romail Gulzar of Pukaar News and Paul Levenston of Laurick Jewellery for stepping forward and helping make this signing happen. And the continued support of Jelson Homes. It has taken time, but it is definitely worth the effort. I know all the Riders fans will be particularly pleased - they talked to me about nothing else since mid October!' said Levenston.

Green Grabs Molten BBL Player Of The Month - by Paul Nilsen

Mychal Green (193-G-83, college: Ohio) is the Molten BBL Player Of The Month For November after exploding into red-hot form for Glasgow Rocks.

After an encouraging start to his first season in the BBL during September and October, the guard has done a phenomenal job in stepping up for his team ever since backcourt partner EJ Harrison got injured.

Green led the league in scoring and three-point shooting during the period with 25.8 points per game and a superb 57% accuracy from downtown. He also showcased his combo abilities by dishing up 4.6 assists per game.

Perhaps mot impressively of all and underlining his all-round influence on the Rocks, Green also did the dirty work on the glass by pulling down 6.8 rebounds per game which despite his guard status, made him the joint sixth best defensive rebounder in the BBL during the month.

All of the above contributed to Green having by far the most impressive performance valuation of any other player during November,

Green just pipped Jeremy Bell of UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders and Bill Cole of Cheshire Jets in the scoring stakes who recorded 23.2 and 20.5 points per game respectively.

The leading rebounder was Matt Schneck of the Jets who actually averaged a double-double of 16.3 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. The same feat was also achieved by Paul Williams of the Raiders who averaged 11 points and 10.8 rebounds. One real eye opener was the veteran playmaker Ralph Bucci also joining this exclusive list with the Wildcats guard averaging a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds,

It was a great month for Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders and that is evidenced by the fact that four players feature in the top six spots for field goal percentage with Drew Sullivan leading the way with a stunning 71.9%.

Meanwhile Fab Flournoy is known as a great leader and he led the Eagles team in more ways than one during November with the player-coach leading the BBL in assists with 5.4 per game.

Defensively, Prestige Homes MK Lions duo Demarius Bolds and Daniel Northern led the way with the former claiming 3.2 steals per game and the latter blocking 1.6 shots per game, a number shared with Raiders center Paul Williams.

Paternostro Crowned Molten BBL Coach Of The Month - by Paul Nilsen

It has been a terrific start to the new season for Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders and adding to the exciting buzz surrounding the club, Rob Paternostro has been named as Molten BBL Coach Of The Month For November.

The play-caller never lost a game during the month with five wins and that truly magnificent tie last weekend with Newcastle Eagles in the BBL Cup semi-final first leg when Riders came back from the dead to preserve their unbeaten status.

Paternostro guided his team to three vital BBL Championship wins during November and they are yet to lose in the league although they had to really work hard to emerge victorious in tight games on the road at Guildford Heat and One Health Sharks Sheffield. Things were a little easier against defending champions Mersey Tigers as they cruised to a home floor success.

Having also comfortable won at London Leopards in the BBL Trophy, perhaps the most important result was a superb 95-74 success at Cheshire Jets in the BBL Cup quarter-finals.

Paternostro has really had his team firing on all cylinders and playing some exciting basketball. The likes of Ayron Hardy, Cameron Rundles and Drew Sullivan have all featured regularly in the BBL Team Of The Week line-up and more recently Brett Royster also booked a spot.

Paternostro will now try to further enhance his reputation by coaching his team to a win at Sport Central against Newcastle Eagles which would punch their ticket for the BBL Cup Final at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham next month.

He will once again pit his wits against Eagles player-coach Fab Flournoy, the winner of the October accolade who just like Paternostro, ensured his team were also unbeaten during November.

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VTB UNITED LEAGUE

Standings

VTB United League Standings

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

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Suzy Batkovic-Brown claims WNBL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced naturalized Croatian center Suzy Batkovic-Brown (193-C-80) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Adelaide and that's her to receive a Australiabasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8.
The 31-year old center had a double-double of 25 points and sixteen rebounds, while her team edged out Sydney UF (#2, 7-2) 77-74. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Adelaide to jump to the first place in the Croatian WNBL. Adelaide have a solid 8-2 record. Batkovic-Brown turned to be Adelaide's top player in her first season with the team. Suzy Batkovic-Brown averages just after two games 24.5ppg and 14.0rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old former international guard Kathleen Macleod (167-G-86) of Dandenong R.. Macleod impressed basketball fans with 36 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists. Of course Dandenong R. cruised to a 85-76 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Bendigo S. (#7, 4-5). This victory allowed Dandenong R. to move up to 5th position in the standings. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-4 record is not bad and everything may still change. Macleod is well-known by Dandenong R. fans and she already established her position as one of team's most reliable players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.5ppg (#3). She also recorded 7.5 assists per game.

The third best performed player last round was another Adelaide's star - former international center Abby Bishop (189-C-88). Bishop showcased her all-around game by recording 22 points, thirteen rebounds (!!!) and six assists in the last round. She was another key player of Adelaide, helping her team with a 77-74 win against #2 ranked Sydney UF in a game of the week. Adelaide confirms their top position in the standings Bishop has a great season in Australia. After only 2 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.5rpg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Belinda Snell (181-F-81) of Sydney UF - 20 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Olivia Thompson (185-F-93) of AIS - 21 points and 9 rebounds
6. Cayla Francis (192-C-89) of Logan T. - 20 points and 11 rebounds
7. Rohanee Cox (182-F-80) of Waves - 21 points and 9 rebounds
8. Shanavia Dowdell (188-F-87) of Townsville F. - 17 points and 12 rebounds
9. Samantha Norwood (188-F/C-89) of Waves - 18 points and 10 rebounds
10. Alicia Poto (166-G-78) of Sydney UF - 19 points and 9 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)

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AUSTRIA - Women

Flying Foxes hand first loss to Union Hainaut - by Eurobasket News
Flying Foxes - Union Hainaut 62-53

Flying Foxes managed to beat Union Hainaut on Wednesday 62-53 handing them first EuroCup loss this season. However, the French squad already booked a spot for the next stage and this game was not so important for them. The Foxes improved to 2-3 in Group D, while Union Hainaut slipped to 4-1. Nikol Soulis (190-C-85, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) stepped up for the hosts with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton (188-PF-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Purdue) (10 rebs) and Petra Steger (177-SG-87) helped with 13 points each. On the other side, visitors got 18 points and 14 rebs from Petra Stampalija (189-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas). Amisha Carter (186-PF-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Louisiana Tech) also scored 18 pts, but to go with 5 rebs. Quarters: 21-15, 17-8, 8-16, 16-14. Next week, Flying Foxes will meet Lemminkainen in another home game. Union Hainaut will host Granca for the first place in this group.

Flying Foxes: Nikol Soulis 18+5 boards, Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton 13+10 boards, Petra Steger 13
Union Hainaut: Petra Stampalija 18+14 boards, Amisha Carter 18+5 boards

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BELGIUM - Women

Dexia Namur hands 86-76 loss to Nantes - by Eurobasket News
Dexia Namur - Nantes 86-76

Dexia Namur was better than Nantes 86-76 on Wednesday evening. It was a Round Five of the EuroCup regular season and Dexia joined Nantes now with 3-2 record in Group C. There is one more round to go and two best teams from this pool will book a spot for the next stage. Ify Ibekwe (187-PF-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Arizona) led the hosts with 26 points and 10 rebounds (valuation 30!). Laurence VanMalderen (192-C-81, agency: LBM Management) had 21 pts and 7 rebs, while Chandrea Jones (175-SF-87, agency: LBM Management, college: Syracuse) added 15 pts. In defeat, Johanne Gomis (178-SG-85) (7 rebs) and Lenae Williams (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: De Paul) netted 12 points each. Aminata Diop (196-C-83, college: Georgetown) had 11 points and 6 rebs. Quarters: 20-16, 16-15, 20-18, 30-27. Next week, Dexia will meet AD Vagos in Portugal. Nantes will play against Optimum TED also on the road.

Dexia Namur: Ify Ibekwe 26+10 boards, Laurence VanMalderen 21+7 boards, Chandrea Jones 15
Nantes: Johanne Gomis 12+7 boards, Lenae Williams 12, Aminata Diop 11+6 boards

Young Cats grab valuable win against Dynamo-GUVD - by Eurobasket News
Young Cats - Dynamo-GUVD 64-61

Young Cats made a huge step forward to the next stage of EuroCup. The Belgian squad grabbed 64-61 victory against Dynamo-GUVD on Wednesday evening. Both teams had 2-2 record in Group B before this meeting. Jana Raman (186-PF-91) led the scorer in victory with 15 points and she grabbed 6 rebounds beside that. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) was their best player with 10 points, 14 rebs and 5 assists (valuation 26), while Antonia Delaere (175-SG-94) also scored 10 pts. In Dynamo, Ksenia Kolosovskaia (180-G-82) was better than the others with 22 points. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) followed with 12 points and 7 rebs, while Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) added 11 pts and 16 boards. Quarters: 9-20, 10-15, 24-10, 21-16. In the last round of the regular season, Young Cats will meet Telge on the road. Dynamo goes to Istanbul for a game vs Besiktas.

Young Cats: Jana Raman 15+6 boards, Emma Meesseman 10+14 boards+5 as, Antonia Delaere 10
Dynamo-GUVD: Ksenia Kolosovskaia 22, Tatiana Petrushina 12+7 boards, Natalia Myasoedova 11+16 boards

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EUROCUP - Women

Round Five: Wednesday's games - by Eurobasket News
GROUP B

Young Cats - Dynamo-GUVD 64-61
Young Cats made a huge step forward to the next stage of EuroCup. The Belgian squad grabbed 64-61 victory against Dynamo-GUVD on Wednesday evening. Both teams had 2-2 record in Group B before this meeting. Jana Raman (186-PF-91) led the scorer in victory with 15 points and she grabbed 6 rebounds beside that. Emma Meesseman (192-C-93) was their best player with 10 points, 14 rebs and 5 assists (valuation 26), while Antonia Delaere (175-SG-94) also scored 10 pts. In Dynamo, Ksenia Kolosovskaia (180-G-82) was better than the others with 22 points. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) followed with 12 points and 7 rebs, while Natalia Myasoedova (193-C-87) added 11 pts and 16 boards. Quarters: 9-20, 10-15, 24-10, 21-16. In the last round of the regular season, Young Cats will meet Telge on the road. Dynamo goes to Istanbul for a game vs Besiktas.

Young Cats: Jana Raman 15+6 boards, Emma Meesseman 10+14 boards+5 as, Antonia Delaere 10
Dynamo-GUVD: Ksenia Kolosovskaia 22, Tatiana Petrushina 12+7 boards, Natalia Myasoedova 11+16 boards

GROUP C

Dexia Namur - Nantes 86-76
Dexia Namur was better than Nantes 86-76 on Wednesday evening. It was a Round Five of the EuroCup regular season and Dexia joined Nantes now with 3-2 record in Group C. There is one more round to go and two best teams from this pool will book a spot for the next stage. Ify Ibekwe (187-PF-89, agency: LBM Management, college: Arizona) led the hosts with 26 points and 10 rebounds (valuation 30!). Laurence VanMalderen (192-C-81, agency: LBM Management) had 21 pts and 7 rebs, while Chandrea Jones (175-SF-87, agency: LBM Management, college: Syracuse) added 15 pts. In defeat, Johanne Gomis (178-SG-85) (7 rebs) and Lenae Williams (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: De Paul) netted 12 points each. Aminata Diop (196-C-83, college: Georgetown) had 11 points and 6 rebs. Quarters: 20-16, 16-15, 20-18, 30-27. Next week, Dexia will meet AD Vagos in Portugal. Nantes will play against Optimum TED also on the road.

Dexia Namur: Ify Ibekwe 26+10 boards, Laurence VanMalderen 21+7 boards, Chandrea Jones 15
Nantes: Johanne Gomis 12+7 boards, Lenae Williams 12, Aminata Diop 11+6 boards

GROUP D

Lemminkainen - Gran Canaria 64-69
Gran Canaria jumped to 4-1 in Group D of the EuroCup regular season. Even a week ago Granca already booked a spot for the next stage. Lemminkainen closes the standings in this pool with 0-5. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) exploded with 26 points and 16 rebounds for the hosts (valuation 31!). D'andra Moss (178-SG-88, college: VCU) had 14 pts, 7 boards and 5 assists, while Leticia Romero (174-G-95) helped with 12 points. In defeat, Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) top-scored with 14 points and she grabbed 7 rebounds. Lina Aglinskaite (182-G/F-87) stopped to 10 pts for the hosts. Quarters: 14-20, 19-15, 13-13, 18-21. In the last round of the regular season, Granca will meet Union Hainaut on the road and the winner will end as No.1 in Group D. Lemminkainen goes to Austria.

Lemminkainen: Monika Grigalauskyte 14+7 boards, Lina Aglinskaite 10
Gran Canaria: Astou Ndour 26+16 boards, D'andra Moss 14+7 boards+5 as, Leticia Romero 12

Flying Foxes - Union Hainaut 62-53
Flying Foxes managed to beat Union Hainaut on Wednesday 62-53 handing them first EuroCup loss this season. However, the French squad already booked a spot for the next stage and this game was not so important for them. The Foxes improved to 2-3 in Group D, while Union Hainaut slipped to 4-1. Nikol Soulis (190-C-85, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) stepped up for the hosts with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton (188-PF-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Purdue) (10 rebs) and Petra Steger (177-SG-87) helped with 13 points each. On the other side, visitors got 18 points and 14 rebs from Petra Stampalija (189-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas). Amisha Carter (186-PF-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Louisiana Tech) also scored 18 pts, but to go with 5 rebs. Quarters: 21-15, 17-8, 8-16, 16-14. Next week, Flying Foxes will meet Lemminkainen in another home game. Union Hainaut will host Granca for the first place in this group.

Flying Foxes: Nikol Soulis 18+5 boards, Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton 13+10 boards, Petra Steger 13
Union Hainaut: Petra Stampalija 18+14 boards, Amisha Carter 18+5 boards

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Ashley SHIELDS
  Maccabi .
  (180-SG-85)
  Avg: 22

1. Shields, Maccabi	22.0
2. Guzman, MBK R.	21.6
3. Ibekwe, Dexia N.	21.4
4. Ely, Helios	20.8
5. Anufryienka, Goriz.	20.7
6. Marginean, Arras	20.6
7. Petrakova, Dynamo	20.5
8. Williams, Nantes	20.4
9. Moss, Gran Canaria	19.3
10. Ndour, Gran Canar.	19.0

Rebounds Per Game

Natalia MYASOEDOVA
  Dynam.
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Myasoedova, Dynam.	11.4
2. Alyoshkina, Olimpia	11.3
3. Zahui, Telge	11.0
4. Paris, Botas	10.8
5. Kamba, Mondeville	10.7
6. Ndour, Gran Canaria	10.6
7. Grishaeva, Arras	10.4
8. Grigalauskyt., Lem.	10.2
9. Ibekwe, Dexia N.	10.0
10. Coulibaly, Mondev.	10.0

Assists Per Game

Nilay KARTALTEPE YIGIT
  Bot.
  (172-PG-79)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Kartaltepe Y., Bot.	7.4
2. Aubert, Nantes	6.8
3. Guzman, MBK R.	6.4
4. Manic, Landes	5.4
5. Boddie, Helios	5.2
6. Alexander, Fl.Foxes	5.0
7. Johnson, Dynamo K.	4.8
8. Bimbaite, Dynamo K.	4.6
9. Vandersloot, Besik.	4.6
10. Keyru, Chevakata	4.5

Steals Per Game

Amisha CARTER
  Union H.
  (186-PF-82)
  Avg: 4

1. Carter, Union H.	4.0
2. Kolosovskaia, Dyna.	3.4
3. Houts, Union H.	3.4
4. Shields, Maccabi	3.2
5. Arseneva, Dynamo	3.0
6. Solopova, Union H.	3.0
7. Keyru, Chevakata	2.8
8. Mitchell, Arras	2.8
9. Selwyn, Elitzur Ra.	2.7
10. Bimbaite, Dynamo	2.6

Blocks Per Game

Natalia MYASOEDOVA
  Dynam.
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Myasoedova, Dynam.	2.4
2. Pierson, Maccabi	2.4
3. Kiseleva, Chevaka.	2.0
4. Meesseman, Young	2.0
5. Khomenchuk, Goriz.	1.8
6. Alyoshkina, Olimpia	1.7
7. Murauskaya, Olimpia	1.6
8. Lopes, AD Vagos	1.5
9. Sanders, Kayseri	1.4
10. Zahui, Telge	1.2

Standings

Eurocup Standings

Group A
1. Botas			5-0
2. Dynamo M.			2-3
3. Gorizont			2-4
4. Lombos Quinta			2-4
Group B
1. Besiktas			4-1
2. Young Cats			3-2
3. Dynamo-GUVD			2-3
4. Telge			1-4
Group C
1. Optimum TED			3-1
2. Dexia Namur			3-2
3. Nantes			3-2
4. AD Vagos			0-4
Group D
1. Union Hainaut			4-1
2. Gran Canaria			4-1
3. Fl.Foxes			2-3
4. Lemminkainen			0-5
Group E
1. Chevakata			4-0
2. Arras			4-1
3. Sint Kateline			1-3
4. SISU			0-5
Group F
1. Dynamo K.			5-0
2. Kayseri			3-2
3. Maccabi Ashdod			1-4
4. Olimpia			1-4
Group G
1. MBK Ruzomb.			3-2
2. Landes			3-2
3. Partizan			2-3
4. Helios			2-3
Group H
1. Elitzur Ramla			3-0
2. Mondeville			2-1
3. Spartak N.			0-4

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EUROLEAGUE - Women

Euroleague Round: 8 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News

Group A

USK Praha - Bourges 73-69
USK Praha prevail against Bourges for 5-3 record in Group A of EuroLeague. The team from Czech Republic needed 73:69 tough win to send the opponents to 3-5 record. The hosts scored the first five points in the game, while Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) tied the game at 6:6. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) later brought 18:12, while the guests replied with a 7-0 run for 19:18 lead. Ieva Kublina and Catherine Joens increased to 36:29 and Katerina Elhotova sent the teams to the lockers at 36:33. The damage was done from the very outset in the second half as the hosts won the third and the last periods. They needed 17-13 in the third quarter and finished the game with 23-20 in the last stanza. Katerina Elhotova top-scored for the winners with15 points and Delisha Milton-Jones posted 14. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) netted 11, while Eva Viteckova added 10. Catherine Joens ended up with 16 points in the losing effort and Jennifer Digbeu produced 13. Ieva Kublina scored 11 and Nwal-Endene Miyem chipped in with 10.

VICI-Aistes - Galatasaray 66-84
Galatasaray earned the seventh win in Euroleague Group A. Epiphanny Prince (175-G-88, college: Rutgers) scored 16 points as the Turkish powerhouse overcame VICI Kaunas in Lithuania. Galatasaray improved at 7-1 record, while VICI slipped at 1-7 record in the ladder. Galatasaray entered the game aggressively limiting the hosts to 13 points in the opening quarter and taking a 6-point lead. The visitors dominated in the second quarter. Galatasaray poured in 26 points to establish a 45:29 halftime lead. VICI failed to change the complexion of the game after the big break. Galatasaray stayed comfortably ahead posting a 22-point lead with one quarter remaining. VICI outgunned their opponents in the final frame but never threatened the margin. Isil Alben had 15 points, while Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) added 14 points in the winning effort. Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-G/F-88, agency: LBM Management) delivered 17 points for VICI. Amanda Kemezys nailed 10 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the loss.

UMMC - Lotos Gdynia 79-56
UMMC earned the sixth Euroleague win this season. They fired past Lotos Gdynia at home court in Group A tonight. Sandrine Gruda nailed 15 points and collected 8 rebounds to lead the winners. Lotos fell at 2-6 record after the loss. UMMC dominated from the opening minutes. The hosts posted a 22:14 lead ten minutes into the game. UMMC continued to enlarge the margin in the second quarter. They recorded a 46:25 halftime advantage. Lotos stopped the bleeding in the third term. The Polish team cut the deficit to 17 points with one quarter remaining. But UMMC outgunned their opponents 16:10 in the final period to celebrate a comfortable win. Olga Arteshina finished with 12 points, while Cappie Pondexter (175-G-83, college: Rutgers) and Candace Parker added 11 points each in the win. Aneika Henry (193-C-86, college: Florida) answered with 14 points and 6 boards for Lotos. Jolene Anderson provided 12 points in the loss.

Ros Casares - UNI SEAT 80-43
Ros Casares gained the seventh Euroleague victory. They held off Gyor at home court on Wednesday. Ann Wauters (194-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) posted 18 points and 6 rebounds to pace the winners. The winners improved at 7-1 record, while Gyor fell at 1-7 record after the loss. Ros Casares silenced their opponents in the opening quarter. They went on a 29:7 run to build a comfortable lead. Ros Casares maintained the pressure in the second quarter. Well-balanced offence helped the hosts to take a 52:22 halftime lead. Gyor struggled to pick up the tempo after the big break. Ros Casares secured a 32-point lead before the final quarter and never looked back en route to the victory. Laia Palau (178-G-79) and Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston) nailed 12 points each for the winners. Quanitra Hollingsworth (196-C-88, college: VCU) responded with 13 points for Gyor. Zsofia Simon had 10 points in the losing effort.

Group B

Nadezhda O. - Familia Schio 70-63
Nadezhda accounted for the fourth win in Euroleague season. They toppled visiting Schio in Orenburg tonight. Natalia Zhedik (182-G-88) scored 19 points to pace the hosts. Schio fell at 3-4 record after the loss. Schio looked more aggressive and determined in the first period. The visitors ensured a 9-point lead after ten minutes. But Nadezhda gradually picked up the slack. The hosts trimmed the deficit to 4 points at halftime 30:34. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) scored 8 points in the third term to help Nadezhda gain a 52:50 lead with ten minutes remaining. Erkic put Schio back in front 55:54 early in the final quarter but Natalia Zhedik and Katie Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) triggered an 8:3 run that gave the hosts an 8-point lead with under three minutes to go in regulation. Nadezhda hung on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Anastasiya Veremeenko provided 17 points, while Katie Douglas added 14 points in the win. Laura Macchi answered with 20 points for Schio. Raffaella Masciadri finished with 11 points in the loss.

Tarbes - UNIQA Eurol. 67-76
UNIQA Euroleasing continues Tarbes downfall as the latter is still unable to win any game. This time they could not use their home court advantage losing their seventh consecutive match to fifth ranked Hungarian MKB Euroleasing 76:67 on Wednesday evening. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Ukrainian forward Olexandra Kurasova (186-F-86) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points. Serbian center Sara Sara Krnjic contributed with 13 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four MKB Euroleasing players scored in double figures. Alex Montgomery (185-G/F-89, college: Georgia Tech) replied with 14 points and 6 rebounds and forward Naura El Gargati added 14 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Tarbes. MKB Euroleasing will face higher ranked Nadezhda Orenburg on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.

Perfumerias - CCC Polkowice 78-85
CCC Polkowice shock the defending champions in Spain on Wednesday night. Host Perfumerias Avenida was defeated by CCC Polkowice in a tough game in Salamanca 78:85. It looked good early as Perfumerias Avenida took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then CCC Polkowice had a 26-11 second period charge getting the lead and Perfumerias Avenida was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 78-85. 24 personal fouls committed by Perfumerias Avenida helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Greek forward Evanthia Maltsi who scored 28 points and 6 rebounds. Montenegrin power forward Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds. Brazilian center Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) produced 22 points and 8 rebounds and American guard DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. CCC Polkowice's next round opponent will be league's leader Fenerbahce in Istanbul and it may be the game of the week. Perfumerias Avenida will play on the road against Familia Schio.

Group C

Spartak V MR - Frisco Sika 97-62
Spartak Moscow Region registered the sixth win in Euroleague Group C. They fired past Frisco Sika at home court to remain on top of the standings at 6-2 record. Candice Dupree (188-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) unloaded 25 points to pace the hosts. Frisco Sika fell at 1-7 record after the loss. The first frame doomed the visitors. Spartak went on a stunning 33:7 rally to gain a comfortable 26-point lead. Spartak maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a a 54:27 halftime advantage. Spartak never allowed Frisco Sika any close in the third term. The hosts piled up a comprehensive 30-point advantage heading into the final quarter and never looked back en route to the victory. Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) delivered 15 points, while Seimone Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) had 10 points in the win. Romana Hejdova (183-F-88) answered with 19 points for Frisco Sika. Jasmine Thomas provided 12 points in the loss.

Dobri Anjeli - Wisla Can-Pak 69-72
Wisla celebrated the sixth win in Euroleague Group C. They eked out a narrow vicotry over Dobri Anjeli in Slovakia. Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford) posted 25 points in the winning effort. Dobri Anjeli fell at 4-4 record after the defeat. Nicole Powell and Erin Phillips capped the regulation with four points in a row to bring win for Wisla. Wisla took off early in this one. They unloaded 27 points in the starting quarter to take an 8-point lead. Dobri Anjeli narrowed the gap in the second quarter. The hosts got within 3 points at the interval 38:41. But Wisla enlarged their lead once again in the third quarter. The visitors scored 22 points in the third term to establish a 9-point advantage with ten minutes remaining. Dobri Anjeli opened the final quarter with 7 points in a row to trim the deficit. Natalia Vieru (197-C-89) and Danielle McCray (180-G/F-87, college: Kansas) put the hosts in charge but a late rally from the visitors sealed the victory for Wisla. Erin Phillips nailed 18 points, while Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) had 12 points in the win. Natalia Vieru answered with 19 points and 12 rebounds for Dobri Anjeli. Danielle McCray had 14 points in defeat.

Gospic - Rivas Ecopolis 67-52
Gospic kept their Euroleague hopes alive with a home win over Rivas Ecopolis. Sandra Mandir (177-G-77) scored 16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds as the Croatian team improved at 3-5 record in Group C. Rivas Ecopolis in the meantime fell at 5-3 record after the loss. Gospic did not waste time surging ahead for a 20:13 lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the pressure throughout the second quarter. They recorded a 38:25 halftime advantage. Rivas Ecopolis could not get closer in the third quarter. Gospic entered the final frame up by 14 points 57:43. Rivas Ecopolis managed only 9 points in the final term and had to surrender at the end. Jelena Ivezic posted 15 points, while Julie McBride (165-G-82, college: Syracuse) and Marija Vrsaljko contributed 13 points apiece in the win. Asjha Jones (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) answered with 17 points and 9 rebounds for Rivas Ecopolis. Jelena Dubljevic netted 14 points in the loss.

Taranto - Lattes Montp. 71-65
Taranto closed Round 8 with the win over Lattes Montpellier. The Italian team improved to 3-5 record after the home 71:65 victory on Thursday. Lattes Montpellier trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 17-10 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 65-71 at the end of the game. Taranto forced 24 Lattes Montpellier turnovers. Kia Vaughn (193-C-87, college: Rutgers) orchestrated the victory by scoring 14 points and 9 rebounds. Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) contributed with 16 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Taranto players scored in double figures. Ana Lelas replied with 21 points and Stephany Skrba (188-F-87, college: Michigan) added 16 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Lattes Montpellier. Taranto will face Gospic on the road in the next round. Lattes Montpellier will play against Frisco Sika in Brno.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

DeWanna BONNER
  Perfumer.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 21.4

1. Bonner, Perfumer.	21.4
2. De Souza, Perfumer.	19.8
3. McCoughtry, Fener.	18.7
4. Taurasi, Galatasa.	18.5
5. Jones, Rivas Ecopo.	18.3
6. Augustus, Spartak	17.8
7. Taylor, Fenerbahce	17.3
8. Charles, Galatasa.	16.9
9. McCray, Dobri A.	16.6
10. Wauters, Ros C.	16.5

Rebounds Per Game

Cheryl FORD
  Familia Schio
  (191-F/C-81)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Ford, Familia Schio	10.4
2. Henry, Lotos Gdyn.	9.9
3. De Souza, Perfumer.	9.3
4. Charles, Galatasa.	9.3
5. Jones, Rivas Ecopo.	9.0
6. Hollingswort., UNI	9.0
7. Bjelica, Wisla C.	8.9
8. Wauters, Ros C.	8.9
9. Vaughn, Taranto	8.4
10. Brunson, Nadezhd.	8.3

Assists Per Game

Sharnee ZOLL
  CCC P.
  (170-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Zoll, CCC P.	6.7
2. Palau, Ros Casares	6.3
3. Lawson-Wade, Latt.	6.1
4. Penicheiro, USK P.	6.0
5. McBride, Gospic	5.1
6. Ciglar, UNI S.	4.5
7. Dominguez, Ros C.	4.1
8. Fegyverneky, UNIQ.	4.0
9. Bojovic, Dobri Anj.	3.9
10. Linkeviciene, VIC.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Sandra LINKEVICIENE
  VICI-.
  (176-G-82)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Linkeviciene, VICI.	3.3
2. Skrela, Lattes M.	2.9
3. Bonner, Perfumer.	2.7
4. Penicheiro, USK P.	2.5
5. Lyttle, Ros Casar.	2.5
6. Palau, Ros Casares	2.4
7. Alben, Galatasaray	2.4
8. Robert, Lotos G.	2.4
9. Bojovic, Dobri Anj.	2.4
10. Brown, Bourges	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Agnieszka MAJEWSKA
  CCC P.
  (195-C-82)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Majewska, CCC P.	1.6
2. Kulichova, USK P.	1.5
3. Veremeenko, Nadez.	1.4
4. Gruda, UMMC	1.1
5. Lyttle, Ros Casar.	1.0
6. Vrsaljko, Gospic	1.0
7. Osipova, Spartak	1.0
8. Parker, UMMC	1.0
9. Robinson, Frisco S.	0.9
10. Burgrova, USK Pra.	0.8

Standings (Women)

Euroleague Standings

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

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FRANCE - Women

NF1 is finishing the first round of the season - by Juliane Hoehne
This weekend, the NF1 teams will play their last game of the first round of the regular season. Meanwhile in Group A, Elan Bearnais Pau Lacq Orthez is at the top of the table without any losses. Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 sits right behind with one game lost, while any other team behind has at least 3 more losses. Due to the loss of Poitiers against Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 last weekend, they had to give up their third spot in the table, and are now equally with Le Poire-sur-Vie and Alpc Moulin Nantes Basket. All of those teams have currently 6 victories, and 4 losses, and are followed by U.S. Colomiers Basket and Avenir de Rennes, who are 5-5.
In Group B, Saint Etienne Case B is still undefeated after securing a 68-65 win over Basket Club La Tronche Meylan last weekend. Basket Club de Chenove and AS Villeurbanne have 8 victories and 2 losses, and are currently 2nd and 3rd place. Next in the table are Charnay Basket Bourgogne SUD and Basket Club La Tronche Meylan, who are 5-5, and will face each other this upcoming weekend.

NF2 Standings - by Juliane Hoehne

NF1 Standings

Group A
1. Pau Orthez		10-0
2. Angers		9-1
3. Le Poire-sur-Vie		6-4
4. Stade Poitevin		6-4
5. Reze		6-4
6. Colomiers		5-5
7. Rennes		5-5
8. D'Ifs		4-6
9. La Couronne		3-7
10. Mondeville II		2-8
11. Feytiat		2-8
12. Thouars		2-8
Group B
1. St Etienne		10-0
2. Chenove		8-2
3. Villeurbanne		8-2
4. Charnay		6-4
5. La Tronche		6-4
6. Wasquehal		5-5
7. Avenir		4-5
8. Aulnoye		4-6
9. Franconville		4-6
10. Geispolsheim		3-7
11. Aubervilliers		2-8
12. CFBB II		0-10

Petra Stampalija claims LFB weekly honour (by BasketStore) - by Eurobasket News

Experienced Croatian center Petra Stampalija (189-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) had an amazing evening in the last round for Union Hainaut and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 10.
The 31-year old center had a double-double of 17 points and fourteen rebounds, while her team beat Charleville (#12, 3-7) 65-58. Union Hainaut maintains the 8th position in French LFB. Union Hainaut is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 5-5 record. Stampalija turned to be Union Hainaut's top player in her first season with the team. Petra Stampalija averages this season 13.7ppg and 7.9rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 29-year old DR Congolese power forward Pauline Akonga Nsimbo (188-F/C-82, agency: LBM Management) of Arras. Akonga Nsimbo impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 22 points and 15 rebounds. Bad luck as Arras was edged by the lower-ranked Aix-en-Provence (#10, 3-7) 60-57. This loss caused Arras to drop to 7th position in the standings. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 5-5 record is not bad and everything may still change. Akonga Nsimbo is one of the most experienced players at Arras and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Jennifer Humphrey (191-C-84, agency: Josep and Nicolas) of Landes (#3). Humphrey scored 18 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Humphrey's great performance Landes lost 51-55 to the lower-ranked Lyon (#13, 3-7). But her team cannot count on just a single player as she also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Landes needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 6 victories and 4 lost games. Humphrey has a great season in France. After 10 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 13.8rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Emilie Gomis (180-G/F-83) of Villeneuve - 27 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Naura El Gargati (192-F-80) of Tarbes - 18 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Audrey Sauret Gillespie (179-G/F-76) of Lyon - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Anael Lardy (170-G-87) of Challes - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Johanne Gomis (178-SG-85) of Nantes - 14 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Ana-Maria Cata-Chitiga (195-C-89) of Tarbes - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Mistie Mims (191-C-83) of Challes - 14 points and 5 rebounds

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

Taranto closed Round 8 with the win over Lattes Montpellier - by Eurobasket News
Taranto - Lattes Montpellier 71:65

Taranto closed Round 8 with the win over Lattes Montpellier. The Italian team improved to 3-5 record after the home 71:65 victory on Thursday.
Lattes Montpellier trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 17-10 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 65-71 at the end of the game. Taranto forced 24 Lattes Montpellier turnovers. Kia Kia Vaughn (193-C-87, college: Rutgers) orchestrated the victory by scoring 14 points and 9 rebounds. Simona Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) contributed with 16 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Taranto players scored in double figures. Ana Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) replied with 21 points and Stephany Stephany Skrba (188-F-87, college: Michigan) added 16 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Lattes Montpellier.
Taranto will face Gospic on the road in the next round. Lattes Montpellier will play against Frisco Sika in Brno.

Taranto: Simona Ballardini 16, Kia Vaughn 14+9rebs, Elodie Godin (190-C-85) 12
Lattes Montpellier: Ana Lelas 21, Stephany Skrba 16, Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) 11

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HUNGARY - Women

Standings - Women

A Standings

1. UNIQA Eurol.		11-0
2. UNI SEAT		9-1
3. Pecs 2010		9-1
4. ZTE		7-3
5. Nanette FTC		6-4
6. Bajai NKK		5-5
7. Vasas		4-6
8. DKSK		3-7
9. Cegledi EKK		3-7
10. Atomeromu		2-8
11. ELTE-BEAC		1-9
12. BSE-FCSM		1-10

Best players of A round 10 - by Eurobasket News
Talented former international forward Tijana Krivacevic (194-F-90) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader UNIQA Eurol. and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 10.
The 21-year old forward had a double-double of 17 points and twelve rebounds, while her team crushed BSE-FCSM (#12, 1-10) with 24-point margin 77-53. It allowed UNIQA Eurol. to consolidate first place in the A. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. The season is already in a full swing and UNIQA Eurol. still have not lost a single game, getting all 11 victories. Krivacevic has many years of experience at UNIQA Eurol., through which he has constantly improved. Tijana Krivacevic averages this season 9.5ppg and 5.4rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old Montenegrin center Milica Cvetanovic (195-C-86) of Atomeromu. Cvetanovic impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds. Bad luck as Atomeromu was edged by slightly lower-ranked ELTE-BEAC (#11, 1-9) 68-67. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Atomeromu dropped in the standings to 10th position. 8 lost games are too many comparing to just two victories Atomeromu managed to get this year. Cvetanovic is a newcomer at Atomeromu and it seems she did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 13.4ppg (#9). She also registered 8.8 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Croatian guard Iva Ciglar (170-G-85, agency: Data Plus Group) of second-ranked SEAT-SZESE. Ciglar scored 25 points and passed eight assists. She was a key player of SEAT-SZESE, leading her team to a 84-67 easy win against #3 ranked Pecs 2010 in a game of the week. Many experts and fans count SEAT-SZESE as a contender for championship title. Another victory and another confirmation that they may be right. Just look at their record: 9 victories and only one lost games.. Ciglar has a great season in Hungary. After 10 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 4.8apg (best passer).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Katinka Orban (176-G-89) of Cegledi EKK - 28 points and 3 rebounds
5. Nikoletta Turoczi (187-F/C-80) of Nanette FTC - 16 points and 10 rebounds
6. Maja Skoric (184-F-89) of DKSK - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Judit Zsamar (179-F-89) of ELTE-BEAC - 13 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Rita Rasheed (180-F-89) of SEAT-SZESE - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Anita Teilane (196-C-85) of Vasas - 15 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Brankica Hadzovic (175-G-81) of DKSK - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists

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

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ICELAND - Women

Standings - Women

Express L. Standings

1. Keflavik		9-1
2. Njardvik		7-3
3. KR		6-3
4. Haukar		6-4
5. Snaefell		5-4
6. Fjolnir		2-8
7. Hamar		2-8
8. Valur		2-8

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ITALY - Women

Best players of A1 round 7 - by Eurobasket News
Jamaican Vanessa Gidden (193-C/F-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for Alcamo and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7.
The 26-year old had a double-double of 14 points and twenty rebounds, while her team beat Priolo (1-6) 59-51. The game was not the highest importance and did not have significant influence on the top of the standings. Alcamo is placed at 10th position in Italian A1. The season is still in it's early stage, so the team may have a chance to improve their current position in the standings. They lost 6 games and had just one victory. It was one of impressive evenings for Gidden as usually she does not deliver so high stats. Hofstra University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Gidden is in league's top in rebounds (2nd best: 11.3rpg).

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 30-year old American power forward Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas) of Familia Schio. Ford impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 16 points and 13 rebounds. Of course she lead Familia Schio to another comfortable win 78-64 over the lower-ranked Basket Parma (#8, 3-4) being unquestionably team leader. Familia Schio's 4th position in the standings has not changed. Her team's 5-2 record is not bad at all. Ford is a newcomer at Familia Schio and it seems she did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 13.2ppg (#7). She also registered 15.6 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Portuguese forward Mery Andrade (181-F-75) of second-ranked Lucca. Andrade showcased her all-around game by recording 10 points, eight rebounds and seven assists in the last round. She was a key player of Lucca, leading her team to a 80-37 easy win against the lower-ranked Faenza (#6, 4-3). Lucca is closer and closer to the top of the standings. They will still need more victories. But 6-1 record is not that bad... Andrade has a great season in Italy. After only 7 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 2.3apg (9th best). She also has 3.6spg and FGP: 51.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Shamela Hampton (191-C-87) of Lucca - 18 points and 5 rebounds
5. Courtney Willis (188-F/C-82) of Lucca - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Daliborka Vilipic (196-C-75) of Pozzuoli - 11 points and 10 rebounds
7. Kelly Mazzante (183-G-82) of Pozzuoli - 23 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Sabrina Cinili (190-F-89) of Umbertide - 17 points and 5 rebounds
9. Laura Summerton (191-C-83) of Bracco Geas - 9 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Francesca Zara (177-G-76) of Umbertide - 7 points, 7 rebounds and 6 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)

Nadezhda tame Schio in Orenburg - by Eurobasket News
Nadezhda - Schio 70:63

Nadezhda accounted for the fourth win in Euroleague season. They toppled visiting Schio in Orenburg tonight. Natalia Zhedik (182-G-88) scored 19 points to pace the hosts. Schio fell at 3-4 record after the loss.
Schio looked more aggressive and determined in the first period. The visitors ensured a 9-point lead after ten minutes. But Nadezhda gradually picked up the slack. The hosts trimmed the deficit to 4 points at halftime 30:34. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) scored 8 points in the third term to help Nadezhda gain a 52:50 lead with ten minutes remaining. Erkic put Schio back in front 55:54 early in the final quarter but Natalia Zhedik and Katie Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) triggered an 8:3 run that gave the hosts an 8-point lead with under three minutes to go in regulation. Nadezhda hung on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Anastasiya Veremeenko provided 17 points, while Katie Douglas added 14 points in the win. Laura Macchi (187-F-79) answered with 20 points for Schio. Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80) finished with 11 points in the loss.

Nadezhda: Natalia Zhedik 19, Anastasiya Veremeenko 17, Katie Douglas 14
Schio: Laura Macchi 20, Raffaella Masciadri 11

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LITHUANIA - Women

Granca keeps Lemminkainen winless in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Lemminkainen - Gran Canaria 64-69

Gran Canaria jumped to 4-1 in Group D of the EuroCup regular season. Even a week ago Granca already booked a spot for the next stage. Lemminkainen closes the standings in this pool with 0-5. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) exploded with 26 points and 16 rebounds for the hosts (valuation 31!). D'andra Moss (178-SG-88, college: VCU) had 14 pts, 7 boards and 5 assists, while Leticia Romero (174-G-95) helped with 12 points. In defeat, Monika Grigalauskyte (190-PF-92) top-scored with 14 points and she grabbed 7 rebounds. Lina Aglinskaite (182-G/F-87) stopped to 10 pts for the hosts. Quarters: 14-20, 19-15, 13-13, 18-21. In the last round of the regular season, Granca will meet Union Hainaut on the road and the winner will end as No.1 in Group D. Lemminkainen goes to Austria.

Lemminkainen: Monika Grigalauskyte 14+7 boards, Lina Aglinskaite 10
Gran Canaria: Astou Ndour 26+16 boards, D'andra Moss 14+7 boards+5 as, Leticia Romero 12

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MALTA - Women

Hibs and Depiro reach KO Final - by Eurobasket News
Hibs and Depiro will play in KO competition Final. They overcame Loyola and Luxol in respective semifinals.
Hibernians claimed a comprehensive 55:25 win over Loyola. Lena Gipson (182-F) scored 14 points to pace the winners. Loyola led 8:4 early in the game but Hibs quickly bounced back taking a 27:19 lead at the interval. Hibs limited their opponents to just 6 points in the second half and cruised to the victory at the end.
Depiro outscored Luxol 63:55 in another semifinal. Samantha Brincat (177-G/F-79) orchestrated the victory scoring 30 points for Depiro. Depiro led by just four points 32:28 at halftime. Luxol leveled things up at 47 in the final quarter but Depiro reacted with seven points in a row and never looked back again.

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NCAA1 - Women

No. 5 Stanford women beat UC Davis 93-44 - by Eurobasket News
Jennifer Gross played for former UC Davis coach Sandy Simpson and coached under him for seven seasons.

Needless to say, her philosophy for the Aggies hasn't changed much since she took over when Simpson retired. The mantra now: Get back to the NCAA tournament.

UC Davis, minus many of the stars who led the program to its first NCAA berth last spring, showed positive signs in the early minutes of a 93-44 loss to No. 5 Stanford on Wednesday night.

'We lost a number of really great players from last year,' Gross said. 'Kids had to step into different roles. The gals are doing everything we're asking of them. They're doing it with confidence and doing it with a lot of pride - with the goal to get back there. They're determined to have another trip (to the NCAAs).'

But the outsized Aggies couldn't do much about Stanford's Nnemkadi Ogwumike and her younger sister, Chiney Ogwumike (6'3''-F-92), on either end.

Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2''-F-90) scored 18 of her 20 points in the first half and also grabbed nine rebounds, while Chiney Ogwumike added 18 points and nine boards. Reserve Joslyn Tinkle (6'3''-F-90) had a career-high 19 points on 8-for-9 shooting and nine rebounds as the Cardinal (5-1) got their 66th straight home win at Maples Pavilion. The game was a rematch of last season's NCAA tournament first-round game won 86-59 by Stanford.

The Cardinal returned from a tough road trip to Connecticut and Xavier and took it to UC Davis.

'We set the tone in Monday's practice, coming back from a long road trip,' Tinkle said. 'We knew they were going to be scrappy, obviously shorter, but they're quicker. We knew their offense pretty well and were not going to let them trick us backdoor.'

Hannah Stephens (5'7''-G) scored 19 points for the Aggies, who were scrappy and aggressive going to the basket early to stay close before Stanford took control. Stephens had 14 points before halftime, when Stanford already led 51-23.

UC Davis (5-2) has lost consecutive games after starting 5-0 under Gross.

'We're not focused on wins and losses right now,' she said.

Freshman Bonnie Samuelson, a 6-foot-3 forward, came off the bench to score 15 points for Stanford in her best game yet. The Cardinal play again Sunday at Fresno State but will not be at home again until Dec. 17 after a two-week break for final exams.

Stanford's only loss came at No. 2 Conn on Nov. 21. Tara VanDerveer's young team faces another daunting non-conference schedule this season with a home date against Tennessee coming up Dec. 20.

The Cardinal, who have been to four straight Final Fours but haven't won an NCAA title since 1992, outscored the Aggies 38-10 over the final 12:31 of the first half to pull away behind Nnemkadi Ogwumike and her sophomore sister.

On two occasions in the first half, Chiney Ogwumike Ogwumike missed twice on the same possession only to see Nneka convert the putback. That helped Stanford to a commanding 47-16 advantage on the boards. Stanford pulled down 17 offensive rebounds to none for UC Davis.

Stephens hit back-to-back 3-pointers to keep the Aggies close early, tying the game at 13 at the 12:31 mark of the first half.

'I thought we came out with tremendous energy and a lot of confidence,' Gross said. 'We try really hard as coaches to keep the energy high with our team. That's the way we have to play.'

The Aggies were 7 for 28 from long range overall, struggling to get clear looks against the taller Cardinal. Stanford has won the last five meetings between the schools, who renewed their series in 2007 after a 28-year gap.

Stephens was whistled for her third foul with 16:10 left in the game.

Stanford - the 11-time defending conference champion favored to capture the inaugural Pac-12 title in Hall of Fame coach VanDerveer's 26th year on The Farm - began the game 4 for 10 but warmed up to shoot 52.9 percent in the first half and 54.7 overall. The Ogwumikes combined to go 14 for 22 from the floor.

The Cardinal have six freshmen who are still working to find their way in VanDerveer's system.

'The upperclassmen did a really good job of showing us the ropes,' Samuelson said.

Stanford senior guard Lindy La Rocque did not dress because of an injured right foot.

Courtesy of The Associated Press

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POLAND - Women

CCC Polkowice shock the defending champions in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Perfumerias - CCC Polkowice 78:85

CCC Polkowice shock the defending champions in Spain on Wednesday night. Host Perfumerias Avenida was defeated by CCC Polkowice in a tough game in Salamanca 78:85.
It looked good early as Perfumerias Avenida took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then CCC Polkowice had a 26-11 second period charge getting the lead and Perfumerias Avenida was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 78-85. 24 personal fouls committed by Perfumerias Avenida helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Evanthia Maltsi (180-F-78, agency: Josep and Nicolas) who scored 28 points and 6 rebounds. Montenegrin power forward Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds. Brazilian center Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) produced 22 points and 8 rebounds and American guard DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts.
CCC Polkowice's next round opponent will be league's leader Fenerbahce in Istanbul and it may be the game of the week. Perfumerias Avenida will play on the road against Familia Schio.

CCC Polkowice: Evanthia Maltsi 28, Iva Perovanovic 15+9rebs, Zoll 14+10ast, Megan Frazee (191-G/F-87, college: Liberty) 9, Agata Gajda (175-PG-80) 9
Perfumerias: Erika De Souza 22, DeWanna Bonner 16, Sanchez 14

Wisla escape with narrow win in Kosice - by Eurobasket News
Dobri Anjeli - Wisla 69:72

Wisla celebrated the sixth win in Euroleague Group C. They eked out a narrow vicotry over Dobri Anjeli in Slovakia. Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford) posted 25 points in the winning effort. Dobri Anjeli fell at 4-4 record after the defeat. Nicole Powell and Erin Phillips (173-G-85) capped the regulation with four points in a row to bring win for Wisla.
Wisla took off early in this one. They unloaded 27 points in the starting quarter to take an 8-point lead. Dobri Anjeli narrowed the gap in the second quarter. The hosts got within 3 points at the interval 38:41. But Wisla enlarged their lead once again in the third quarter. The visitors scored 22 points in the third term to establish a 9-point advantage with ten minutes remaining. Dobri Anjeli opened the final quarter with 7 points in a row to trim the deficit. Natalia Vieru (197-C-89) and Danielle McCray (180-G/F-87, college: Kansas) put the hosts in charge but a late rally from the visitors sealed the victory for Wisla. Erin Phillips nailed 18 points, while Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) had 12 points in the win. Natalia Vieru answered with 19 points and 12 rebounds for Dobri Anjeli. Danielle McCray had 14 points in defeat.

Dobri Anjeli: Natalia Vieru 19+12 boards, Danielle McCray 14
Wisla: Nicole Powell 25, Erin Phillips 18, Anke De Mondt 12

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RUSSIA - Women

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SERBIA - Women

Jela Vidacic's triple-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
Former international center Jela Vidacic (190-C-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for Proleter and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
The 26-year old center recorded a triple-double of 17 points and addedeighteen rebounds and ten assists, while her team beat Beocin (#9, 3-6) in overtime 87-77. Proleter is placed at 6th position in A League. Proleter is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 4-5 record. It's Vidacic's second year at Proleter and it's hard to imagine this team without her. Vidacic has impressive league stats. She is league's best scorer averaging so far 26.8ppg and leads league in rebounds with 14.1rpg. Vidacic is in league's top in assists (5th best: 3.9apg) and averages solid 1.1bpg,2.8spg and 52.9% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was young Bosnia and Herzegovina forward Ana Niksic (181-F-91) of second-ranked Crvena Zvezda. Niksic impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 28 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Crvena Zvezda was edged by slightly higher-ranked Jagodina 2001 (8-1) 85-83. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Crvena Zvezda still maintains its place in the top 2 of the standings, even despite this loss. It was just her team's 1st loss this season, while they won 8 other games. Niksic is well-known by Crvena Zvezda fans and she already established her position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was international Aleksandra Crvendakic (187-C/F-96) of Loznica (#11). Crvendakic scored 20 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Crvendakic's great performance Loznica lost 63-83 to the higher-ranked Radnicki KG (#8, 3-6). But her team cannot count on just a single player as she also needs help of the other teammates. Loznica can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-7 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Crvendakic she does not play for a better team. But maybe if she did, her season stats would not be that high. Crvendakic has individually a great season in Serbia. After only 9 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 12.0rpg (2nd best) and assists with 3.9apg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Maja Golubovic) of Beocin - 31 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Marija Ilic (190-C-85) of Student - 27 points and 12 rebounds
6. Sonja Maric (185-F-85) of Celarevo - 26 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Aleksandra Katic (172-G-87) of Radnicki KG - 24 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Marija Kovacic (197-C-78) of Jagodina 2001 - 26 points and 8 rebounds
9. Tamara Miskovic) of Vrbas - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Dusanka Cirkovic (190-C-76) of Loznica - 15 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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SLOVAKIA - Women

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SLOVENIA - Women

Standings - Women

SKL Standings

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

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Kristina BALTIC
  AJM M.
  (187-F/C-90)
  Avg: 19.3

1. Baltic, AJM M.	19.3
2. Rupnik, Jezica	19.0
3. Kuzma, Pomurje	18.5
4. Jevtovic, Grosuplje	16.7
5. Trebec, Athlete	15.5
6. Hatic, Jezica	15.3
7. Oblak, Athlete Cel.	15.2
8. Zdolsek, Triglav	15.1
9. Radulovic, Triglav	15.0
10. Lesjak, Rogaska	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Kristina BALTIC
  AJM M.
  (187-F/C-90)
  Avg: 11.1

1. Baltic, AJM M.	11.1
2. Jevtovic, Grosuplje	9.9
3. Pavli, Domzale	9.3
4. Pirsic, Triglav	9.3
5. Skof, Ilrija	9.3
6. Gajic, Athlete Cel.	8.8
7. Drozg, AJM Maribor	8.8
8. Rupnik, Jezica	8.3
9. Orozovic, Athlete	7.8
10. Vukovic, Domzale	7.5

Assists Per Game

Teja OBLAK
  Athlete Celje
  (171-G-90)
  Avg: 5

1. Oblak, Athlete Cel.	5.0
2. Gabrovsek, Athlet.	4.8
3. Zupancic, Grosuplje	4.4
4. Drozg, AJM Maribor	3.0
5. Jurse, Rogaska	3.0
6. Hatic, Jezica	2.7
7. Rupnik, Jezica	2.7
8. Meden, Ilrija	2.6
9. Kuzma, Pomurje	2.5
10. Radulovic, Triglav	2.5

Steals Per Game

Klara ZUPANCIC
  Grosuplje
  (170-PG-95)
  Avg: 3

1. Zupancic, Grosuplje	3.0
2. Rupnik, Jezica	3.0
3. Jakovina, Grosuplje	2.9
4. Meden, Ilrija	2.9
5. Pavli, Domzale	2.7
6. Lesjak, Rogaska	2.7
7. Gjerkes, Grosuplje	2.6
8. Svetic, Rogaska	2.5
9. Skof, Ilrija	2.4
10. Bajrektarevi., Il.	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Sanja OROZOVIC
  Athlete .
  (184-G-90)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Orozovic, Athlete	1.7
2. Drozg, AJM Maribor	1.0
3. Lisec, Grosuplje	0.9
4. Trebec, Athlete	0.8
5. Dora, Pomurje	0.7
6. Rozman, Grosuplje	0.7
7. Pavli, Domzale	0.7
8. Baltic, AJM M.	0.7
9. Duric, Triglav	0.6
10. Lesnjak, Ilrija	0.6

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SPAIN - Women

Yacoubou-Dehoui's double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old center Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui (190-C-86) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Ros Casares and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7.
She had a double-double of 19 points and 15 rebounds, while her team outclassed Hondar.-Irun (#11, 2-5) with 37-point margin 89-52. Ros Casares maintains the 2nd position in LFB. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. It's already very far into the season and Ros Casares keeps perfect 7 -0 record. Yacoubou-Dehoui turned to be Ros Casares' top player in her first season with the team. Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui averages this season 16.7ppg and 8.2rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Gisela Vega (187-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) of Girona. She is Argentinian center in her first season at Girona. In the last game Vega recorded impressive double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Girona lost that game 61-73 to the lower-ranked Mann Filter (#9, 3-4). Girona managed to keep the same 5th spot in the standings. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 4-3 record is not bad and everything may still change. Vega is a newcomer at Girona and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Adrianne Ross (173-G-84, agency: Merit Sports) of Cadi la Seu (#7). Ross scored 24 points and grabbed six rebounds. She was a key player of Cadi la Seu, leading her team to a 86-80 win against slightly lower-ranked Burgos (#8, 3-4). Cadi la Seu needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 4 victories and 3 lost games. Ross has a very solid season. In 7 games in Spain she scored 15.9ppg. She also has 4.7rpg and 2.7spg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Damiris Dantas (192-C-92) of Real C.Vigo - 22 points and 11 rebounds
5. Astou Ndour (196-C-94) of Gran Canaria - 24 points and 10 rebounds
6. Kristine Karklina (175-G-83) of Cadi la Seu - 26 points and 2 assists
7. Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83) of Ros Casares - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Ann Wauters (194-C-80) of Ros Casares - 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Cristina Ouvina (174-G-90) of Mann Filter - 16 points, 2 rebounds and 7 assists
10. Erika De Souza (197-C-82) of Perfumerias - 18 points and 11 rebounds

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

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SWITZERLAND - Women

Standings - LNF

LNA Standings

1. Helios		8-0
2. Fribourg		7-1
3. Riva Basket		6-2
4. Basel		4-3
5. Hope-GBA		3-5
6. Nyon		3-5
7. Pully		3-6
8. Highflyers		1-6
9. Ovronnaz-Mart.		1-8

Vanessa Dorestant joins Fribourg - by Eurobasket News
Fribourg announced the arrival of Vanessa Dorestant (169-G-92). The 19-year-old guard will don Fribourg jersey at the weekend. Vanessa Dorestant started the season with Highfliers Luzern. She appeared in just one game scoring 33 points and pulling down 5 rebounds. Last season Vanessa Dorestant posted 12.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 3.1 steals per game for Highfliers. The guard earned Eurobasket.com All-Swiss LNA Honourable Mention. Vanessa Dorestant participated at Swiss Talents All-Star Game. The guard became the member of Swiss National Team this year. Previously she played for U16, U18 National Teams. Vanessa Dorestant posted 6.0 points, 3.1 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game at 2010 U18 European Championship in Division B in Romania.

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TURKEY - Women

LaToya Sanders gets MVP of the Week award for TKBL - by Eurobasket News
American LaToya Sanders (191-PF-86) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Kayseri and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 6.
The 25-year old power forward had a double-double of 20 points and eleven rebounds, while her team beat Samsun (#6, 3-3) 86-73. Kayseri is placed at 2nd position in Turkish TKBL. They are still close to the very top. Kayseri would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 5-1 record. Sanders turned to be Kayseri's top player in her first season with the team. University of North Carolina graduate has very impressive stats this year. Sanders is in league's top in rebounds (3rd best: 11.2rpg) and averages solid 2.3bpg.

The second mo