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In front of 2500 fans at the Sleuyter Arena in Oostende, the local team Telenet Oostende defeated the Spanish leader of EuroCup Group D Valencia Basket of Stefan Markovic (194-G-88), Nando De Colo (202-G-87) and Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) 87-83.

The Belgian team of Coach Dario Gjergja (agency: Beo Basket ) finishes the EuroCup campaign with two wins in a row (77-83 against Lukoil Academik Sofia in Bulgaria last week) and a 2-4 record.

Score evolution: 20-22, 40-38, 62-60 and 87-83.

Best scorers:

Telenet Oostende: Kennedy Winston 19, Chris Booker 13, Dusan Sakota 16, Dusan Djordjevic 19, Quentin Serron 5.
Valencia Basket: Serhiy Lishchuk 13, Rafa Martinez 23, Zarko Rakocevic 20, Rihards Kuksiks 15.



EuroCup: Dexia hold off PGE Turow in double-overtime drama - by Eurobasket News
Dexia - PGE Turow 98:97 (2OT)

Dexia wrapped up their EuroCup campaign with a double-overtime win over PGE Turow. Warren Carter (205-F/C-85, college: Illinois) notched 24 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Both teams finished at 2-4 record outside of Last 16 qualifying zone.
PGE Turow stayed well in control throughout the first half. The Polish team posted a 45:32 lead at the interval. The Belgian side struck right back after the big break. Dexia cut the deficit to 7 points heading into the fourth frame. Dexia managed to erase the deficit and even pulled in front in the fourth stanza. However Ronald Moore (183-G-88, college: Siena) tied things up and sent the game into overtime. PGE Turow surged ahead in the first extra period but A.J. Slaughter helped Dexia to stay in the game and force the second overtime. The hosts finally pulled their noses in front and hung on to celebrate a thrilling victory at the end. Sebastien Bellin (205-C-78, agency: Court Side, college: Oakland) accounted for 17 points, while Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) had 15 points in the win. Ronald Moore answered with 16 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for PGE Turow. Daniel Kickert (208-C-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) top-scored for the visitors with 19 points.

Dexia: Warren Carter 24+10 boards, Sebastien Bellin 17, Quincy Taylor 15
PGE Turow: Daniel Kickert 19, Ronald Moore 16


EuroCup: Base Oostende overcame Valencia Basket - by Eurobasket News
Oostende - Valencia 87:83

Base Oostende overcame Valencia Basket but it was not enough to secure the place in Last 16 of EuroCup. The Belgian team won 87:83 to get the second win. Oostende finished third in Group D with a 2-4 record due to its tie-break advantage with Lukoil Academic. Valencia was second in Group B with a 4-2 record, as Asvel had the tie-break advantage against the Spanish powerhouse.
The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87:83.
The best player for the winners was Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Kennedy Winston (198-F-84, college: Alabama) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Zarko Rakocevic (204-F-84) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds and 4 blocks and Rafael Martinez (191-G-82) added 23 points and 4 assists respectively.

Valencia: Rafael Martinez 23, Zarko Rakocevic 20+13rebs, Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88, college: Arizona St.) 15, Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) 13
Oostende: Kennedy Winston 19, Dusan Djordjevic 19, Dusan Sakota (208-PF-86, agency: Beo Basket) 16, Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, college: Purdue) 13


Gembo ends 2011 on top of D2 - by Eurobasket News
Round 14 of the Belgian second division was played last weekend. Gembo registered its twelfth victory to end this part of the season as No.1. They handed 81-99 home loss to No.2 Waregem for 12-2 record. The home squad dropped to 10-3, what is still enough for the second place in the league. Third ranked Fleurus celebrated against Kangaroes-Boom in this round. It was a 74-66 home victory for 10-4 score. Visitors slipped to 8-5. In the other games, Mons Hainaut II was better than St-Niklasse 97-93, while Spirmont grabbed 88-86 home win against Essor Charleroi. Excalsior, Melsele and Sint-Jan also won in this round. Round 15 is scheduled for January 6/7 of the 2012.

Regular Season - Round 14
Dec. 16, 2011 Fleurus-Kangar.-Boom 74-66
Dec. 16, 2011 M.Hainaut II-St-Niklase 97-93
Dec. 16, 2011 Sprimont-Essor Charleroi 88-86
Dec. 17, 2011 Waregem-Gembo 81-99
Dec. 18, 2011 Excelsior-De Westhoek 94-74
Dec. 18, 2011 Melsele-Liege II 94-81
Dec. 18, 2011 Gistel-Sint-Jan Ant. 67-95

D2 Standings
1. Gembo 12-2
2. Waregem 10-3
3. Fleurus 10-4
4. Excelsior 9-5
5. Kangar.-Boom 8-5
6. Essor Charleroi 8-5
7. St-Niklase 7-6
8. Liege II 7-7
9. Sprimont 7-7
10. Sint-Jan Ant. 7-7
11. M.Hainaut II 5-9
12. De Westhoek 2-12
13. Gistel 2-12
14. Melsele 2-12

Former Kansas Jayhawk Tyrel Reed leaves Verviers-Pepinster - by Bert Larsimont
The local press reveals today that Tyrel Reed (190-G-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Kansas), US forward of VOO Verviers-Pepinster, has not returned to Belgium for the practice and training sessions. Reed, who is the winningest player in Kansas University's history (132-17 record in his four seasons with the KU Jayhawks in NCAA) has decided to leave the Southeastern Belgium's club. According to the daily newspaper La Nouvelles Gazette, the club is not currently thinking about replacing Reed.

Last August, the former Kansas combo guard had agreed to a one-year contract with VOO Verviers-Pepinster, a member of the Ethias League in Verviers, Belgium. Terms had not been disclosed. See following article which announced Reed's signing with VOO Verviers-Pepinster last summer: http://www2.kusports.com/news/2011/aug/18/tyrel-reed-signs-belgian-team/?mens_basketball.

Tyrel Reed averaged 18.9 minutes of play, 4.2 points, 1.9 rebounds and 0.8 assist per game in the Ethias League. He played 11 games with VOO Verviers-Pepinster, currently ranked last in the Ethias League.


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Union Olympia Ljubljana a team built around Bosnians, twice this season! - by Chris Mathieu
Union Olympia Ljubljana a team built around Bosnians, twice this season! Union Olympia has been a storied European team throughout its history. This season they team has fallen on hard times and have had problems with non-payment of players and turnover on the team.
Regardless of the adversity the team has faced this season, one fact is without a doubt, the team has built itself around Bosnians both times it has been constructed. Starting with the opening team of Ratko Varda, Damir Markota and Aleksandar Capin the team had three starters who were born in Bosnia. Both Markota and Capin were born in Sarajevo and Varda came from Bosanka Gradiska.
All three were starters on the team at the beginning of the season. Varda was the first to leave after going unpaid through the first ten games of the season moved to Ukraine Super league. Both Capin and Markota were linked to Turk Telecom in the Turkish league. Capin joined the team but it is unsure what is going on with Markota, he has denied signing in Turkey but hasnt been with Union Olympia for weeks.
The new look Union Olympia is being built around young talents who are less expensive. With Robert Rothbart starting at center for the team the last few games. Rothbart was another player born in Sarajevo who has moved all over the globe but seems to be getting consistent minutes for the first time in his career the last few weeks. His talent was never in question, but his commitment and desire to play at the highest level was.
Bosnian Djordje Micic was recently brought back to the club as well. Djordje is a very young, talented Bosnian who seems like he has been playing for years since he first got mentioned at the age of 15. Still only 18, Djordje has a lot of talent but so far lacks the shooting touch to be a high level player. It appears that Union Olympia will finally give him a shot to get into the rotation near the end of the bench for the team. He has great all around talent and is a good athlete, it remains to be seen if he can shoot well enough to have a long career at a high level.
Dino Muric gets a mention as well, even though he was born in Slovenia it was to Bosnian parents and so, much like Sani Becirovic, Mirza Sarajlija, Salih Nuhanovic and so many other Slovenian basketball talents Dino and his brother Edo have roots that lead back to BiH.
It will be interesting to see what some of these youngsters along with prospects Sasu Salin and Davis Bertrans can do with a lot of minutes against quality competition.


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BULGARIA

EuroCup: ASVEL finished off its Group C campaign in strong fashion - by Eurobasket News
ASVEL - Lukoil Academik 69:68 OT

ASVEL finished off its Group C campaign in strong fashion. Kim Kim Tillie (210-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Utah)'s jumper with three-tenths of a second left in overtime lifted Asvel Basket to a thrilling 69:68 victory over visiting Lukoil Academic
Lukoil Academik was ahead by 7 points at the halftime before a 15-5 third quarter run of ASVEL. They tied the game at the end of regular time. Then they were better in overtime eventually winning that period 13-12. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Lukoil Academik to just 5 points in third quarter. With 13-12 the French side won the overtime and secure the top place in the group.
It was a good game for Dijon Thompson (201-G/F-83, college: UCLA) who saved his team from a defeat with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Kim Tillie contributed with 19 points for the winners. Andre Owens (193-G-80, college: Houston) replied with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) added 14 points and 5 assists in the effort for Lukoil Academik.

Lukoil Academik: Todor Stoykov (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances) 14, Brandon Heath 14+3reb+5ast, Andre Owens 11, Bruno Sundov (221-C-80, agency: Alti Sport) 10
ASVEL: D.Dijon Thompson 21, Kim Tillie 19, Phil Goss (186-G-83, college: Drexel) 10


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BURUNDI

26th ACCM: 9-12 Classification Al Ahly, Urunani sees off opponents - by Olusegun Ikuesan
AL Ahly basketball club of Libya and Urunani basketball club of Burundi today (Monday) sees of their respective opponents in the race for position 9-12 of the 26th edition of the Africa Champions Cup for Men at the Salle Athallah Bouazzaoui gymnasium, Sale Morocco.

AL Ahly basketball club handed down a 96-85 points (16-27, 22-19, 30-12 and 28-27) defeat of Nigeria Royal Hoopers basketball club while Urunani had the better of Malabo Kings basketball club of Equatorial Guinea by 67-50 points (18-15, 19-09, 16-10 and 14-16).

AL Ahly will now square up against Urunani in the battle for the 9-10 position while Royal Hoopers will take on Malabo Kings in the race for 11-12 position of the championship on Tuesday at the same venue.


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CANADA

Storm make more roster changes - by Eurobasket News
It was announced earlier today that the Summerside Storm have released 2nd overall pick Justin Garris (6'4''-F-89, agency: ICRH, college: Ashland) and signed guard Troy Jackson (6'4''-F-84, college: Alcorn St.).

The 63 200lbs, Jackson comes to the Storm from Philadelphia. In College, he played for Alcorn State, which is part of the SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference). He was the lead scorer in the SWAC in his senior year with 21 points per game. Jackson went on to play under Coach Salerno in 2009 for the Vermont Frost Heaves; here he led the PBL in scoring at 19 points per game. Jackson also averaged five rebounds and four assists per game. He was a 78% free throw shooter, shot 47% from the floor and 41% from behind the arch. Jackson also played in the Dominican Republic and professionally in Europe.

Coach Salerno commented on the signing.

We are extremely excited to have Troy in Summerside. He is one of the fiercest competitors Ive ever known. Not only will he bring another scorer, but also a very good on ball defender, which is something we need.

Courtesy of http://summersidestorm.net

Miracles produce first home court win - by Eurobasket News
Darrell Wonge (6'7''-F-86, college: Winston Salem) was the man of the hour.

The small forward delivered a sparkling performance and came through in clutch situations to lead the Moncton Miracles to their first home win with a thrilling 103-95 decision over the Oshawa Power in National Basketball League of Canada action last night at the Moncton Coliseum.

The crowd of 1,342 was engaged from start to finish, creating a noisy atmosphere in the building. Wonge provided plenty of reason to cheer as he established a Miracles record for most points in a game with 31 and that included draining eight three-point shots.

'We had a great crowd tonight, the fans were really into the game and it feels great that we were able to give them a win,' said Wonge. 'It's an early Christmas gift to all the Miracles fans.

'The people in this city have shown so much loyalty towards us. They could've jumped off the bandwagon when we got off to an 0-11 start, but they stuck with us and kept coming to the games to support us. We have amazing fans and they've helped us keep our heads up through everything.'

Wonge was named yesterday as the NBL Canada Player of the Week, the first Moncton player to receive this honour. He averaged 20 points in three games and poured in 30 points in the club's 111-102 road win over the Summerside Storm last Friday.

He followed that up with another great display last night in the Moncton's final game before Christmas. Tied 88-88 with 5:15 remaining, he nailed two straight three-point shots to put the Miracles ahead 94-88 and it was a lead they never relinquished.

The Miracles broke the 88-88 tie by going on a 15-7 run down the stretch and improved to 1-4 at home. They're last in the league at 2-12, but have two wins in the past three games.

'We kept our turnovers down so that was a big factor,' said Wonge. 'We hit the glass hard (with a good job of rebounding) and we keyed in on their main scorers. We had guys on our team that sacrificed their bodies and played great defensively.

'We showed in this game that we're a balanced team and it doesn't matter who's the high scorer. There's a lot of guys who contributed and did things that may not show up on the game sheet. I'm happy about being named NBL Canada Player of the Week, but I'm much more happy about the fact we won two of our last three games.'

Moncton will return to action on the road against Oshawa on Dec. 29. The Miracles will play their next home game against the Saint John Mill Rats on Jan. 3 at 7 p.m. at the Moncton Coliseum.

Moncton suffered a 107-80 loss against Oshawa in the second game of the season, its most lopsided loss. The Miracles bounced back to even the season series between these clubs at one win each.

'We're working hard and getting better every day,' said Miracles point guard Jazzmar Ferguson. 'We really wanted to give our fans an early Christmas gift with a home win tonight. Merry Christmas to all our fans. Hopefully, there's lots more wins to come.

'That was our loudest and most energetic home crowd yet. They were into it right from the start and it was a great atmosphere. It's an adrenalin rush when you have the crowd behind you like that. The fans are our sixth man and we feed off them.'

Moncton had six players reach double digits in scoring. Wonge was joined in this group by Trayvon Lathan (6'7''-G-84, college: Chowan) with 17 points, Ferguson with 14, George Fudge with 11 and Boubacar Coly and Sylvania Watkins both with 10. Coly led the club with 11 rebounds.

Omari Johnson (6'9''-F, college: Oregon St.) had 19 points to lead Oshawa, which is fifth in the seven-team league at 6-11. Marcus Johnson (6'3''-G-87, college: Dayton) and Brandon Robinson both had 18 points.

Moncton was 35-for-79 (.443) in field goals and 10-for-25 (.400) in three-point shots.

Oshawa was 31-for-72 (.430) in field goals and 7-for-18 (.388) in three-point shots. It struggled at 26-for-39 (.666) in free throws.

The game had a terrific tempo from the get-go with entertaining back-and-forth action. The lead changed hands several times in the first quarter with the biggest gap on the scoreboard being six points.

Ferguson and Wonge both scored nine points to spark the Miracles to a 31-29 lead after the first quarter. The crowd was engaged early with loud cheering and breaking into chants of 'Let's Go Miracles'' and 'Defence! Defence!'' when the visitors had the ball.

Moncton held a 45-39 lead five minutes into the second quarter, the biggest lead for either club in that frame. Oshawa rallied and went on a 16-8 run over the final seven minutes to take a 55-53 lead into halftime.

Wonge and Ferguson combined for 26 points in the first half. The Miracles drained seven three-point shots in the first half and Wonge had five of them.

Moncton was ahead for most of the third quarter, its biggest lead being 67-59 with seven minutes remaining. Oshawa struck back with a 22-12 run down the stretch and held an 81-79 lead after the third quarter.

Moncton won the first quarter by two points, lost the second quarter by four points and it was even on the scoreboard in the third quarter. The Miracles outscored their opponent 24-14 in the fourth quarter.

Tied 88-88 with 5:15 remaining, the crowd broke into a loud chant of 'Defence! Defence!'' The Miracles were much sharper under pressure down the stretch and made sure to send fans home in a festive mood.

'Rebounding and free throws hurt us in this game,' said Oshawa head coach Mark Strickland. 'Wonge is a good shooter, that's his job, and he also had a big impact. He got a lot of baskets at key times.

'Moncton played hard tonight. They played like they wanted to win and we didn't. They showed lots of energy and will to win. We can't be thinking that we're playing the last-place so we can just turn it on when we want. Basketball doesn't work that way. You've got to play hard for 48 minutes and if you don't then you lose.'

Moncton is 2-5 since Mike Evans took over as head coach.

'This win is a Christmas present for both ourselves and our fans,' he said. 'We really wanted the fans to enjoy this game and go into Christmas excited about the direction in which this team is headed.

'When you get a loud and enthusiastic crowd like we had in this game they become your sixth man. When the fans are into the game they can help get you through tough situations. I definitely think they had an impact tonight.'

The head coach offered a comment on Wonge's performance.

'Sometimes you have to be like a scorpion and strike at the right time,' said Evans. 'That's what Darrell Wonge did tonight. He was there with key baskets when we needed them to change the momentum of the game.

'Boubacar Coly, George Fudge ... we got great contributions from lots of guys in this game. Sylvania Watkins' defence was outstanding. You have to identify who you are as a team and we're striving to become better defensively every day. We want to be known as a team that's solid defensively.'

Courtesy of http://timestrancript.canadaeast.com

Darrell Wonge named NBL Player of the Week - by Eurobasket News
The Moncton Miracles have had a disappointing start to this season with an 0-11 start. But with a new coach in Mike Evans and a few roster changes, the Moncton Miracles were able to get the monkey off of their backs last week. Darrell Wonge (6'7''-F-86, college: Winston Salem), a 6'6' forward for Moncton, helped the Miracles make that happen. The Winston-Salem State alum averaged 20 ppg in his last three games for Moncton including a 30-point performance in Moncton's first win of the season against the Summerside Storm.

Wonge has been averaging 16.5 ppg for Moncton and leads the league in 3-pt % at 48.4%. The New York native continued his stellar play this week, putting up a season-high 31 points in the Miracles' win over the Oshawa Power on Monday night. The Miracles are now 2-12 on the season.

Darrell Wonge - Last Week's Performances:
12/13 vs SJ - 16 pts, 3 threes, 5 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl
12/16 @ SUMM - 30 pts (8-11), 5 threes, 4 reb
12/17 @ SJ - 14 pts, 4 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl

Upcoming for the Miracles: @ London (1/1), vs Saint John (1/3)

Courtesy of www.hiphoopjunkies.com

San Antonio Spurs sign guard Cory Joseph - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs announced Friday that they had signed guard Cory Joseph (190-PG-91, college: Texas) (Pickering, Ont.).

The Spurs selected Joseph, a member of Canada's Senior Men's National Team (SMNT), with the 29th overall pick in the first round of the 2011 NBA Draft.

Details of the contract were not released.

Joseph (6-3, 185), an early entry candidate in this years draft, played his lone collegiate season last year at the University of Texas. He was named to the Big 12 All-Rookie Team and earned All-Big 12 honourable mention.

Joseph averaged 10.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 32.4 minutes while shooting .422 (136-322) from the field, .413 (52-126) from three-point range and .699 (51-73) from the foul line. He scored in double figures 21 times, including a season-high 21 points and the game-winner at North Carolina on Dec. 18, 2010.

Joseph also played for the SMNT at the 2011 FIBA Americas Championship in Mar Del Plata, Argentina.

He will wear No. 5 for the Spurs, the same number he wore at Texas and for the national team.

Courtesy of www.basketball.ca

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CHINA

Zhejiang Beats Shanghai 89-86 - by Arthur Volbert
Smith J.R. (198-G-85) scored 35 points and grabbed 11 rebounds as Zhejiang defeated Shanghai 89-86. Josh Boone had 13 points, 14 rebounds and 6 blocks. Cao Fei had 12 points and 6 rebounds. Ding Jinhui had 7 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals. Zhang Chunjun had 9 points, 8 rebounds and 5 steals.

Ryan Forehan-Kelly had 24 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists for Shanghai. Michael Harris had 15 points and 15 rebounds. Zhang Zhaoxu had 13 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks and played relatively even with Boone, demonstrating his progress as a center. Wang Yong had 8 points and 5 rebounds. Meng Lingyuan had 5 points and 8 rebounds. Feng Tian had 7 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals.

Coach BOB DONEWALD NO more head coach - by Robert Wang
Xinjiang team won 7 games and lost 4 games from the season started. And this result made team have a serious decision today, they fire their current head coach BOB DONEWALD. And coach Jiang Xing Quan comes back to his head coach seat again. And team put coach Bob as the team consultant. Coach Bob coached Shanghai team in the last two years and was the head coach of China national team.
Jiang Su team changed their head coach mr. Xu Qiang and put former CBA star Hu Wei Dong as the head coach position.
Tonight, the game between Zhe Jiang and Shang hai just finished at 89:86. JR Smith missed the last shot and tied game 77:77. And the two teams played 1 overtime and gave Shang Hai another lost game.

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CROATIA

EuroCup: Bayern edge Cedevita in Munich - by Eurobasket News
Bayern - Cedevita 80:65

Bayern finished their EuroCup campaign with victory. They beat Cedevita at home court to sweeten the pill of Group G unsuccessful journey. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) and Jonathan Wallace (187-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgetown) posted 14 points to pace the hosts.
Bayern marked their ambitions early in the game. They outgunned Cedevita 25:17 in the opening frame. Bayern consolidated the lead in the second period. The hosts stretched the gap to as many as 19 points at halftime 46:27. Cedevita showed character in the third stanza. They narrowed the deficit and got within 16 points with one quarter remaining. But Bayern wisely kept the Croatian team at distance throughout the fourth term and earned an easy win at the end. Chevon Troutman (202-F-81, agency: ACMT, college: Pittsburgh) accounted for 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Bayern. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) responded with 15 points for Cedevita. Vedran Vukusic (206-F-82, college: Northwestern) had 13 points in the loss.

Bayern: Robin Benzing 14, Jonathan Wallace 14, Chevon Troutman 13
Cedevita: Dontaye Draper 15, Vedran Vukusic 13


EuroCup: Hapoel J-M kept Cibona winless - by Eurobasket News
Cibona - Hapoel J-M 78:86

Hapoel J-M kept Cibona winless in EuroCup 2011/2012 season. The Israeli team celebrated 86:78 win in Croatia in the last game for both teams.
Antwain Barbour (196-G/F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Kentucky) and Jure Lalic (212-C-86) raced Cibona out to a quick 8-2 advantage before Jerusalem tied thanks to a couple layups by Dan Grunfeld (198-F/G-84, college: Stanford). Cibona trailed 18:19 at the end of the first period and 36:45 at the halftime. The fell at 14 points after 3 quarters before a 22-16 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 78:86 at the end of the game. Cibona was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Brian Randle (203-F-85) who scored 17 points. Dan Grunfeld chipped in 13 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Brian Chase (178-G-81, college: Virginia Tech) who recorded 15 points. Davor Kus (191-G-78, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points and Jure Lalic brought 12.

Cibona: Brian Chase 15, Davor Kus 13, Jure Lalic 12, Antwain Barbour 11
Hapoel J-M: Brian Randle 17, Dan Grunfeld 13, Luke Jackson (201-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Oregon) 13, Jarvis Varnado (206-F-88, college: Mississippi St.) 11


Alen Trepalovac signs with BC Vienna - by Eurobasket News
Alen Trepalovac (214-C-85, agency: World Sport Agency) will continue his career in Austria. The Croatian big guy penned a deal with BC Vienna for rest of the season. Actually, Trepalovac already made his debut with Vienna. He had 27 points and 6 rebounds in a game against Arkadia. Vienna lost that game on the road 91-101. Alen Trepalovac finished last season with Vienna as well. He joined them in January averaging 14 points and 7.8 rebounds in 13 games. In 2009/10, he played for Cypriot AEK Larnaca and French Clermont. In the past, Trepalovac spent few years with Cibona Zagreb. He also played for Croatian youth National Teams. Trepalovac replaced Zarko Rakocevic at BC Vienna . The team currently has 6-7 record in Austrian Superleague.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

EuroCup: CEZ Nymburk advanced to Last 16 winning Group C - by Eurobasket News
Groningen - CEZ Nymburk 75:92

CEZ Nymburk advanced to Last 16 winning Group C of EuroCup. The Czech champions beat on the road bottom-ranked Dutch Groningen 92:75 on Tuesday. The latter finished with no victories in the tournament.
CEZ Nymburk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Nymburk jumped ahead 0-9 before David Bell (186-G-81) scored 7 straight points for GasTerra to make it 9:7. GasTerra closed the first half on a roll with eight straight points to trail just 48:36 at the break. It was a great shooting night for CEZ Nymburk especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 62.5 percentage. Groningen was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch.
The best player for the winners was Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, college: St.John's) who scored 14 points and 8 assists. A.J. Abrams (180-G-86, college: Texas) chipped in 17 points. At the other side the best for losing team was David Bell who recorded 15 points and Alex Wesby added 7 points and 5 rebounds respectively.

Groningen: David Bell 15, Jason Dourisseau (196-G-83, college: Nebraska) 9, Avis Wyatt (211-F/C-84, college: Virginia St.) 9
CEZ Nymburk: A.J. Abrams 17, Eugene Lawrence 14, Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Washington) 14, Andrew Naymick (211-C-85, agency: Warren Sports International) 14


BK Prostejov Claims 71-54 Victory over Turi Svitavy - by Surujh Roopnarine
BK Prostejov improved to 15-3 on the season as they defeated visiting Turi Basketbal Svitavy (7-12) 71-54 last night at home.
Travis Peterson (208-C-85, college: Samford) and Arvydas Eitutavicius (188-G-82, college: American) paced the winners with 15 points apiece. Turi Basketbal Svitavy, shorthanded with the departure of American import Ravone George plus injuries to Pavel Mroz and Tomas Teply, was led by Boris Meno (203-F-83, college: Davidson)s 21 point, 17 rebound effort. Despite an early 13-4 run by Prostejov to start the game, Svitavy pulled close and kept it competitive for three-quarters, before being outscored 21-8 in the fourth.
PROSTEJOV: Arvydas Eitutavicius (15pts+8reb), Travis Peterson (15pts+9reb), Jamar Smith (13pts), Bertengeh Cadri-Nicholson (7pts+9reb)
SVITAVY: Boris Meno (21pts+17reb), Ladislav Horak (9pts+8reb), Lukas Sindelar (6pts), Pavel Milos (2pts+8reb)


Ravone George and Turi Svitavy Part Ways - by Surujh Roopnarine
Fourth-year guard Ravone George (193-G-83, college: Alabama) and the management of Turi Basketbal Svitavy have mutually agreed to part ways after the player requested his release for personal reasons.
This season the 28-year old George appeared in 15 games averaging 14.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.1 steals while shooting 56.5% on two-point field goals and 31.7% from three. He joined Turi Basketbal Svitavy for the end of the 2010-11 season, playing in eight games before returning for a second year. George, 6-4, finished his collegiate career at Murray State and has played professionally in Austria, Estonia and Slovakia in addition to the Czech Republic.

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D-LEAGUE

Vipers Asumnu named D-League Player of the Week - by Eurobasket News
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers and the NBA Development League (NBA D-League) announced today that Stanley Asumnu (6'5''-G/F-82, college: Tennessee) of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers was today named D-League Performer of the Week for games played Dec 12-18.This is the first Performer of the Week honor for Asumnu in his five year D-League career.

For the week, the 6-5, 220-pound forward out of Tennessee averaged an NBA D-League-high 26.0 points to go along with a team-high 12.0 rebounds per contest, as theVipers went 1-1.

In helping Rio Grande Valley snap the Austin Toros' three-game home win streak Friday, Dec. 16, Asumnu posted a career high 28 points and team best 10 rebounds, in the Vipers 19-108 victory. The following night, in a 124-114 loss on the road against the Texas Legends, Asumnu recorded another double-double, scoring 24 points and pulling down a game-high 14 rebounds. On the season, Asumnu is averaging career bests in points per game (20.0) points, rebounds per game (8.9) rebounds and shooting percentage (58.2%) .

Other top performers considered include the Tulsa 66ers' Xavier Alexander, who averaged 17.0 points and 5.5 rebounds; the Reno Bighorns' Christopher Ayer, who averaged 23.5 points and 10.0 rebounds; the Erie BayHawks' Tirrell Baines, who averaged 25.0 points and 7.5 rebounds; the Dakota Wizards' Maurice Baker, who averaged 22.0 points and 8.5 rebounds; the Los Angeles D-Fenders' Brandon Costner, who averaged 25.0 points and 8.0 rebounds; the Austin Toros' Eric Dawson, who averaged 14.7 points and 8.0 rebounds; the Bakersfield Jam's Osiris Eldridge, who averaged 24.3 points; the Maine Red Claws' Paul Harris, who averaged 22.0 points and 12.5 rebounds; the Fort Wayne Mad Ants' Cameron Jones, who averaged 23.0 points and 4.0 rebounds; the Idaho Stampede's Reginald Larry, 15.3 points and 10.3 rebounds; the Sioux Falls Skyforce's Billy McShepard, who averaged 15.7 points and 12.0 rebounds; and the Iowa Energy's Michael Tveidt, who averaged 19.5 points and 4.5 rebounds.

The Vipers return to action on Thursday night at State Farm Arena when they play host to the Bakersfield Jam. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Fazekas parts ways with Bighorns - by Eurobasket News
Nick Fazekas (6'11''-F-85, college: Nevada) played in just 12 games for the Reno Bighorns last season before an ankle injury ended his season.

That proved to be a bit longer than this season.

Fazekas, the 6-foot-11 former Wolf Pack star who played one season in the NBA and has also played in Europe, signed with the NBA Development League team again this season but is moving on, Bighorns owner Herb Santos Jr. said Monday. Fazekas played in six games with the Bighorns (3-5), averaging 18.2 points per game and 8.2 rebounds per game.

Santos said the Bighorns game Wednesday against Idaho (7 p.m., Reno Events Center) will be Farewell to Nick Fazekas Night. Santos said he could not disclose why Fazekas was leaving the Bighorns because of a confidentiality agreement.

Fazekas did not return a message seeking comment.

In October, Fazekas said he was weighing his options and said re-signing with the Bighorns was among them.

Were hoping all of his fans, while he was a Bighorn and while he was a University of Nevada player, will come out and send him off, Santos said. We are so fortunate to have him last year and this year, and we continue to wish him the best. He is and always will be a member of the Reno Bighorns family.

Fazekas was not with the Bighorns when they played at Tulsa on Friday and at Iowa on Saturday. He was at Lawlor Events Center on Saturday watching the Wolf Packs game against UC Riverside.

Santos said hes not sure if Fazekas would play Wednesday.

He will be there on the bench one way or another, Santos said. It will probably be his last day as a member of the Bighorns. I think Nick is very happy here. He loved Coach (Paul) Mokeski and he loved the fans. Thats why he came back to Reno.

Courtesy of www.rgj.com

Wizards release F Rico Cunningham - by Eurobasket News
The Dakota Wizards announced today that they have waived forward Larriques Cunningham (6'6''-F, college: Lee) to make room for the return of forward Marcus Dove.

Cunningham was acquired by Dakota on December 9th from the available player pool. He appeared in two games for the Wizards averaging two minutes and two rebounds per game.

Dove returns to the Wizards after appearing in NBA Training Camp with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Prior to Dove reporting to the Thunder, he averaged 7.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.0 assists in four games for the Wizards.

The current roster stands at 10 players.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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EGYPT

Pan Arab Games: Egypt won Group E of the Second Stage in Doha - by Eurobasket News
Egypt-Kuwait 79:63

Egypt won Group E of the Second Stage in Doha at the Pan Arab Games. The team needed 76:63 to take the first spot and advanced to the Semifinals.
Egypt took the lead at the very beginning and reached 22-9 after the first period. Kuwait however replied with 18-10 to trail 5 points at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive as Egypt produced 32-19 to seal the victory.
Amr El Gandy stepped up with 16 points and Ibrahim ElGamal (188-G-88) netted 9. Moamen AbdouElLanin (199-F-86) and Haytham Kamal (207-C/F-87) delivered 8 points apiece. Abdulaziz Mohammad (186-G/F-87) replied with 26 points in the losing effort and Nayef AlRashidi (185-SF-89) scored 12. Rashed AlRabah (189-G/F-87) and Abdullah AlShammari (201-F-89) notched 8 points each in defeat.
Tomorrow Egypt will face Qatar in the Semifinal game. In another one Jordan will take on Tunisia.

Egypt: Amr El Gandy (202-F/C-88) 16, Ibrahim ElGamal 9, Moamen AbdouElLanin 8, Haytham Kamal 8
Kuwait: Abdulaziz Mohammad 26, Nayef AlRashidi 12, Rashed AlRabah 8, Abdullah AlShammari 8

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EUROCUP

Last Day of Eurocup Regular Season: Go on or the end? - by Philip Mulryne
There are 3 important matches at Eurocup tonight where the last team that will join the last 16 stage will be determined. At Bandırma, Banvit will play host Lokomotiv Kuban. Banvit has to win the game in order to advance. Lokomotiv has already guaranteed that. According to latest injury report, Serkan Erdogan will not be able to play for the hosts.

The second decider will be played at Astroballe, Lyon, France. ASVEL will welcome Bulgarian Lukoil and the winner of this game will be the one who advances. According to gong.bg, Damjan Stonajevic will is injured and will not play. French team, still mourning for the unexpected death of ex-national team player Ronnie Smith is on a three game losing streak and need to recover.

At Group C, where Cez Nymburk has already guaranteed to qualify, Aris will host Lithuanian Eurocup debutants Rudupis and if the visitors want to advance, they need to win at Thessalonika by a margin more than 9 points. Hard task to do but Rudupis already have surprised many by having at 3-2 count. Aris would have guaranteed to get through Last 16, whether they were more careful at the last seconds at Nymburk.

The End of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News

Group A

BC Donetsk - Gravelines 80-69
BCM Gravelines became Eurocup regular season Group A champion despite an 80:69 road loss against BC Donetsk in Ukraine. The latter however handed the French side their first loss in the tournament. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter. A layup by Dmytro Gliebov ignited a 9-0 run in which Curry had 5 points to put Donetsk back ahead, 28-24. Ramel Curry , Ivan Radenovic and Vule Avdalovic (189-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) led a game-breaking 20-0 run that gave Donetsk a 63:46 margin late in the third quarter. BC Donetsk dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Gravelines-Dunkerque's 26. Ramel Curry scored 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Ivan Radenovic chipped in 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest and Jackson netted 13. The best for the losing side was J.R. J.R. Reynolds with 17 points and 6 rebounds. J.K. Edwards (202-C/F-82, agency: Hoops Ambassadors, college: UNLV) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds, while Rudy Jomby (197-G/F-88) and Yannick Bokolo (190-G-85) notched 9 apiece.

Cibona - Hapoel J-M 78-86
Hapoel J-M kept Cibona winless in EuroCup 2011/2012 season. The Israeli team celebrated 86:78 win in Croatia in the last game for both teams. Antwain Barbour and Jure Lalic raced Cibona out to a quick 8-2 advantage before Jerusalem tied thanks to a couple layups by Dan Grunfeld (198-F/G-84, college: Stanford). Cibona trailed 18:19 at the end of the first period and 36:45 at the halftime. The fell at 14 points after 3 quarters before a 22-16 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 78:86 at the end of the game. Cibona was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Brian Randle who scored 17 points. Dan Grunfeld chipped in 13 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Brian Chase (178-G-81, college: Virginia Tech) who recorded 15 points. Davor Kus (191-G-78, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points and Jure Lalic brought 12.

Group B

VEF Riga - Khimky 68-79
Khimky dominated Group B in EuroCup to win it with 6-0 record. The Russian team grabbed 79:68 win over VEF Riga as both teams advanced to the next stage. The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. VEF Riga was better in second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Khimky forced 24 VEF Riga turnovers. VEF Riga was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86, agency: Alti Sport) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) chipped in 12 points, 8 assists and 5 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was Curtis Millage (185-G-81, college: Arizona St.) who recorded 19 points and 5 rebounds and Tyler Cain (203-F-88, college: S.Dakota) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively.

Cholet - PAOK 69-66
Cholet overcame PAOK but both teams farewell to EuroCup season. Even after 69:66 win, the French side allowed Khimky and VEF Riga to enter the next stage. Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked French Cholet and one of their biggest challengers Greek PAOK had identical 1-4 record. This time Cholet used a home court advantage and edged the opponent from Thessaloniki 69:66 on Tuesday night. PAOK was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. PAOK was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Fabien Causeur who scored 27 points and 4 assists. Patrick Christopher chipped in 17 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78, agency: FCM) who recorded 18 points and 7 rebounds and J.R. Giddens (196-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively.

Group C

Groningen - CEZ Nymburk 75-92
CEZ Nymburk advanced to Last 16 winning Group C of EuroCup. The Czech champions beat on the road bottom-ranked Dutch Groningen 92:75 on Tuesday. The latter finished with no victories in the tournament. CEZ Nymburk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Nymburk jumped ahead 0-9 before David Bell (186-G-81) scored 7 straight points for GasTerra to make it 9:7. GasTerra closed the first half on a roll with eight straight points to trail just 48:36 at the break. It was a great shooting night for CEZ Nymburk especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 62.5 percentage. Groningen was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, college: St.John's) who scored 14 points and 8 assists. A.J. Abrams (180-G-86, college: Texas) chipped in 17 points. At the other side the best for losing team was David Bell who recorded 15 points and Alex Wesby (196-G-80, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Temple) added 7 points and 5 rebounds respectively.

Aris - Rudupis 96-86 OT
Aris secure second place in Group C after an overtime thriller over Rudupis. The Greek side advanced to the next stage after 96:86 win and improved to 4-2 record. The Lithuanian team dropped at 3-3 to finish third. Both teams nailed 20 points in the opening period, while the home side needed 22-16 in the second quarter to take 42:36 halftime advantage. Moreover they led 65:60 but allowed them guests to tie the score at 78:78 after four quarters. Aris reclaimed the lead on Dominic James (180-PG-86, college: Marquette)'s three-point play and Sergio Kerusch and Ronald Davis (190-G-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) also scored to finish up a 9-0 run. The Greek side grabbed the necessary win and advanced to the next stage. Dominic James top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Ronald Davis netted 19. Christos Tapoutos collected 18 points and 11rebounds, while Sergio Kerusch and Dimitrios Tsaldaris netted 13 each. Arminas Urbutis (205-C/F-86, college: Hofstra) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Dainius Salenga posted 14. Gintaras Kadziulis scored 12 and Simas Buterlevicius as well as Adas Juskevicius had 10 each.

Group D

Oostende - Valencia 87-83
Base Oostende overcame Valencia Basket but it was not enough to secure the place in Last 16 of EuroCup. The Belgian team won 87:83 to get the second win. Oostende finished third in Group D with a 2-4 record due to its tie-break advantage with Lukoil Academic. Valencia was second in Group B with a 4-2 record, as Asvel had the tie-break advantage against the Spanish powerhouse. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87:83. The best player for the winners was Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Kennedy Winston (198-F-84, college: Alabama) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Zarko Rakocevic (204-F-84) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds and 4 blocks and Rafael Martinez (191-G-82) added 23 points and 4 assists respectively.

ASVEL - Lukoil Academik 69-68 OT
ASVEL finished off its Group C campaign in strong fashion. Kim Tillie (210-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Utah)'s jumper with three-tenths of a second left in overtime lifted Asvel Basket to a thrilling 69:68 victory over visiting Lukoil Academic. Lukoil Academik was ahead by 7 points at the halftime before a 15-5 third quarter run of ASVEL. They tied the game at the end of regular time. Then they were better in overtime eventually winning that period 13-12. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Lukoil Academik to just 5 points in third quarter. With 13-12 the French side won the overtime and secure the top place in the group. It was a good game for Dijon Thompson (201-G/F-83, college: UCLA) who saved his team from a defeat with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Kim Tillie contributed with 19 points for the winners. Andre Owens (193-G-80, college: Houston) replied with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) added 14 points and 5 assists in the effort for Lukoil Academik.

Group E

GC 2014 - Fraport SKY 71-58
Gran Canaria finished their EuroCup regular season campaign with the win. They held off visiting Skyliners but it did not help the Spaniards to reach the next round. Banvit beat Lokomotiv Kuban in another game in Group E as both teams advanced into the next round leaving Gran Canaria without EuroCup Last 16. Skyliners in the meantime suffered the sixth loss in a row. The German team secured a brave start as they led by five points after ten minutes of action. But Gran Canaria managed to erase the deficit and recorded a 30:28 halftime lead. Gran Canaria maintained a defensive pressure in the third term and cleared off to an 8-point lead with one quarter remaining 49:41. Skyliners never threatened the margin in the final frame as the hosts cruised to the victory. Spencer Nelson (203-F-80, college: Utah St.) posted 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for Gran Canaria. Marquez Haynes and Javier Beiran had 9 points each for the winners. Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) answered with 27 points for Skyliners. Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) netted 16 points and grabbed 16 boards in defeat.

Banvit BK - Lokomotiv 79-55
Banvit overcame Lokomotiv Kuban at home court in the sixth round of EuroCup regular season. The victory allowed the hosts to clinch the top position in Group E. Charles Davis notched 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists to pace the winners. Lokomotiv Kuban finished in the second place after the loss. Banvit grabbed the initiative right from the start. The Turkish team posted a 22:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Banvit maintained the lead throughout the second frame posting a 42:29 halftime advantage. Things did not change after the big break. Banvit boosted the gap taking a 19-point buffer and stayed on the winning track till the final buzzer. Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81) accounted for 14 points, while Lance Williams finished with 11 points for the winners. Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) answered with 12 points for Lokomotiv. Maxim Grigoryev, Jeremiah Massey and Lionel Chalmers (184-G-80, college: Xavier) knocked down 9 points each in the loss.

Group F

Krka - Le Mans 68-65
Krka finished their EuroCup regular season campaign on a high note. They defeated Le Mans to improve at 4-2 record in the second place in Group F. Krka advanced into the next round, while Le Mans got eliminated with 1-5 record. Krka stunned their opponents in the starting frame. The Slovenian side went on a 25:10 run to clear off. Le Mans stopped the rot in the second quarter. They narrowed the gap to 12 points at the interval 28:40. The French team got even closer in the third period. Led by Taylor Rochestie (185-PG-85, college: Washington St.) the visitors got within 8 points with ten minutes remaining 46:54. Le Mans drew things level at 60 late in regulation however Edo Muric and Jure Balazic came up with timely buckets to seal the win for Krka. Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80) posted 13 points, while Jure Balazic had 11 points for Krka. Taylor Rochestie responded with 13 points for Le Mans. Charles Kahudi and Travon Bryant had 10 points each in the loss.

Azovmash - Lietuvos rytas 67-74
Lietuvos Rytas finished the EuroCup regular season undefeated. They overcame Azovmash on the road to finish on top of the ladder at 6-0 record. Azovmash suffered the fifth loss in six games played. Lietuvos Rytas led by a single point at the first break 20:19. Azovmash bounced back in the second frame erasing the deficit. The Ukrainian team surged ahead to post a 36:33 lead at the interval. Lietuvos Rytas shifted the gear after the big break. The Lithuanian side erupted for 28 points in the third quarter to gain a 61:56 advantage with one quarter remaining. Azovmash scored just 11 points in the final stanza and had to surrender at the end. Renaldas Seibutis accounted for 17 points, while Tyrese Rice contributed 16 points and 7 assists for the winners. Artur Drozdov (199-G-80) answered with 18 points for Azovmash. Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) had 24 points in the loss.

Group G

Spartak SP - Benetton TV 97-77
Spartak Saint Petersburg clinched the sixth consecutive win at EuroCup regular season. They outgunned Benetton to reach Last 16. Vladimir Dragicevic (205-C/F-86) accounted for 21 points as Spartak won Group G. Benetton finished in the second position at 3-3 record. Spartak ensured a quick start to the game. They grabbed the lead and posted a 23:14 cushion after ten minutes. Benetton narrowed the gap by a single point at halftime 39:47. Spartak stepped on the gas in the third term. The Russian powerhouse erupted for 30 points to enter the final period up by as many as 19 points 77:58. Benetton never recovered afterwards allowing their opponents to cruise to the victory. Loukas Mavrokefalidis had 14 points, while Miha Zupan had 12 points in the win. Jobey Thomas (194-G-80, college: Charlotte) answered with 22 points for Benetton. Sani Becirovic (196-G-81) posted 16 points in the loss.

B.Muenchen - Cedevita 80-65
Bayern finished their EuroCup campaign with victory. They beat Cedevita at home court to sweeten the pill of Group G unsuccessful journey. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) and Jonathan Wallace posted 14 points to pace the hosts. Bayern marked their ambitions early in the game. They outgunned Cedevita 25:17 in the opening frame. Bayern consolidated the lead in the second period. The hosts stretched the gap to as many as 19 points at halftime 46:27. Cedevita showed character in the third stanza. They narrowed the deficit and got within 16 points with one quarter remaining. But Bayern wisely kept the Croatian team at distance throughout the fourth term and earned an easy win at the end. Chevon Troutman accounted for 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Bayern. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) responded with 15 points for Cedevita. Vedran Vukusic (206-F-82, college: Northwestern) had 13 points in the loss.

Group H

M.Hainaut - PGE Turow 98-97 2OT
Dexia wrapped up their EuroCup campaign with a double-overtime win over PGE Turow. Warren Carter notched 24 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Both teams finished at 2-4 record outside of Last 16 qualifying zone. PGE Turow stayed well in control throughout the first half. The Polish team posted a 45:32 lead at the interval. The Belgian side struck right back after the big break. Dexia cut the deficit to 7 points heading into the fourth frame. Dexia managed to erase the deficit and even pulled in front in the fourth stanza. However Ronald Moore (183-G-88, college: Siena) tied things up and sent the game into overtime. PGE Turow surged ahead in the first extra period but A.J. Slaughter helped Dexia to stay in the game and force the second overtime. The hosts finally pulled their noses in front and hung on to celebrate a thrilling victory at the end. Sebastien Bellin (205-C-78, agency: Court Side, college: Oakland) accounted for 17 points, while Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) had 15 points in the win. Ronald Moore answered with 16 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for PGE Turow. Daniel Kickert top-scored for the visitors with 19 points.

Buducnost - ALBA 57-72
ALBA Berlin registered the fifth win in EuroCup regular season. They toppled Buducnost on the road to take 5-1 record on top of Group H. Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds for ALBA. Buducnost fell at 3-3 record but still made it into the Last 16 round. ALBA enjoyed almost a perfect start. They built a 20:10 lead after ten minutes of action. Buducnost came back to life in the second period. The hosts trimmed the deficit to 6 points 28:34 at halftime. But ALBA once again increased the tempo in the third term and established a 13-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. Buducnost had no answers in the final part of the encounter and surrendered at the end. Marko Simonovic posted 14 points, while Heiko Schaffartzik nailed 10 points in the win. Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) answered with 12 points for Buducnost. Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in the loss.



Stats Leaders

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Fabien CAUSEUR   Cholet   (193-G-87)   Avg: 21.8

1. Causeur, Cholet 21.8   2. Caner-Medley, Vale. 17.0   3. Vucevic, Buducnost 16.8   4. Minard, Azovmash 16.4   5. Curry, BC Donetsk 16.3   6. Massey, Lokomotiv 15.7   7. James, Aris 15.3   8. Bell, Groningen 15.0   9. Gentile, Benetton. 15.0   10. McKinney, Fr. 14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Jeremiah MASSEY   Lokomotiv   (202-F-82)   Avg: 9.3

1. Massey, Lokomotiv 9.3   2. Lee, BC Donetsk 8.4   3. Traore, Lokomotiv 8.4   4. Adrien, Benetton 8.4   5. Davidson, Fraport 8.2   6. Booker, Oostende 8.0   7. Giddens, PAOK 7.8   8. Roberts, Lietuvos. 7.8   9. Lishchuk, Valencia 7.5   10. Jordan, Krka 7.3

Assists Per Game

Deron WILLIAMS   Besiktas   (191-PG-84)   Avg: 8

1. Williams, Besiktas 8.0   2. Wood, ALBA 6.7   3. Planinic, Khimky 5.5   4. Halperin, Spart. 5.3   5. Moore, PGE Turow 5.2   6. Rice, Lietuvos. 5.0   7. Becirovic, Benetto. 4.8   8. Markovic, Valencia 4.5   9. Lawrence, CEZ N. 4.5   10. Rochestie, Le Ma. 4.4

Steals Per Game

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

1. Ray, Etha 4.5   2. Massey, Lokomotiv 2.8   3. Wyatt, Groningen 2.5   4. Minard, Azovmash 2.3   5. Beverley, Spart. 2.3   6. Taylor, M.Hainaut 2.3   7. Draper, Cedevita 2.0   8. Randle, Hapoel J-M 2.0   9. Pumprla, CEZ N. 2.0   10. Goree, PAOK 2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sam MULDROW   Aris   (205-F-)   Avg: 3

1. Muldrow, Aris 3.0   2. Fofana, AS. 2.3   3. Varnado, Hapoel J. 2.2   4. Wyatt, Groningen 2.0   5. Naymick, CEZ N. 2.0   6. Kravtsov, BC Do. 1.8   7. Scalabrine, Benett. 1.7   8. Randle, Hapoel J-M 1.5   9. Jean-B., Chalon 1.5   10. Gadri-N., BK Pros. 1.5

Standings

Eurocup Standings

Group A  1. Gravelines 5-1   2. BC Donetsk 5-1   3. Hapoel J-M 2-4   4. Cibona 0-6  Group B  1. Khimky 6-0   2. VEF Riga 3-3   3. Cholet 2-4   4. PAOK 1-5  Group C  1. CEZ Nymburk 5-1   2. Aris 4-2   3. Rudupis 3-3   4. Groningen 0-6  Group D  1. ASVEL 4-2   2. Valencia 4-2   3. Oostende 2-4   4. Lukoil Academik 2-4  Group E  1. Banvit BK 4-2   2. Lokomotiv 4-2   3. GC 2014 4-2   4. Fraport SKY 0-6  Group F  1. Lietuvos rytas 6-0   2. Krka 4-2   3. Le Mans 1-5   4. Azovmash 1-5  Group G  1. Spartak SP 6-0   2. Benetton TV 3-3   3. B.Muenchen 2-4   4. Cedevita 1-5  Group H  1. ALBA 5-1   2. Buducnost 3-3   3. PGE Turow 2-4   4. M.Hainaut 2-4

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EUROLEAGUE

JC Navarro to miss a month - by Eurobasket News
Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) will be out of action for one month. The Barcelonas superstar struggles with foot injury (plantar fasciitis) and he was able to play just 8 minutes last weekend against Caja Laboral (Liga Endesa). If the recovery goes as expected, Navarro should be fit to play when Barcelona begins Top 16 action on January 18. Juan Carlos Navarro averages 12.1 points and 3.1 assists in 8 Eurolegaue games this season. He has almost the same numbers for 12 games in Spain. Navarro recently extended contract with Barca until 2016. Juan Carlos Navarro is also a former world champion with the Spanish national team, an achievement he picked up in 2006. Additionally Navarro won two European championships gold medals and was the MVP this past summer at EuroBasket 2011. Navarro spent all but one season with his hometown club with whom he has won the Euroleague twice as well as six Spanish League titles, five Spanish Kings Cups and the 1999 Korac Cup. On an individual note, he was the 2008-09 Euroleague MVP, the 2010 Euroleague Final Four MVP and been named to the All-Euroleague First Team a record five times. Regal Barca will host Galatasaray tomorrow.

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FINLAND

INTERNATIONAL: Samuel Haanpaa after new challenges - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Finnish NT G-F Samuel Haanpaa (203-G/F-86) has left Cyprus and returned back to Finland for Christmas. Haanpaa played four games on Keravnos Strovolou roster averaging 5,0 ppg - 2,8 rpg in 12,5 mpg. Keravnos record is 9-0 right now and team is leading Cyprus Top League. Haanpaa has been replaced already by Serbian Feliks Kojadinovic (197-G-79). Haanpaa himself is after new challenges. He has played pro basketball also in France and in Spain.
Finnish PF Sami Lehtoranta (205-C/F-79) has extended his contract with Kataja (Joensuu) lasting to spring 2014. Lehtoranta is playing his seventh season on Kataja roster and season # 16 in Korisliiga (Finnish Top League). He is averaging right now 14,6 ppg - 6,2 rpg - 1,9 apg in 29:52 mpg and his team is on the top of the League with 16-3 record, when the Christmas break just got started.

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FRANCE

EuroCup: Cholet overcame PAOK but both teams farewell to the tournament - by Eurobasket News
Cholet - PAOK 69:66

Cholet overcame PAOK but both teams farewell to EuroCup season. Even after 69:66 win, the French side allowed Khimky and VEF Riga to enter the next stage.
Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked French Cholet and one of their biggest challengers Greek PAOK had identical 1-4 record. This time Cholet used a home court advantage and edged the opponent from Thessaloniki 69:66 on Tuesday night. PAOK was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. PAOK was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Fabien Causeur (193-G-87) who scored 27 points and 4 assists. Patrick Christopher (196-G-88, college: California) chipped in 17 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78, agency: FCM) who recorded 18 points and 7 rebounds and J.R. Giddens (196-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively.

PAOK: Giannis Kalambokis 18, J.R. Giddens 17, Nikos Kalles (211-F/C-87) 13
Cholet: Fabien Causeur 27, Patrick Christopher 17, Robert Hite (188-G-84, college: Miami, FL) 7


EuroCup: Krka overcome Le Mans - by Eurobasket News
Krka - Le Mans 68:65

Krka finished their EuroCup regular season campaign on a high note. They defeated Le Mans to improve at 4-2 record in the second place in Group F. Krka advanced into the next round, while Le Mans got eliminated with 1-5 record.
Krka stunned their opponents in the starting frame. The Slovenian side went on a 25:10 run to clear off. Le Mans stopped the rot in the second quarter. They narrowed the gap to 12 points at the interval 28:40. The French team got even closer in the third period. Led by Taylor Taylor Rochestie (185-PG-85, college: Washington St.) the visitors got within 8 points with ten minutes remaining 46:54. Le Mans drew things level at 60 late in regulation however Edo Muric (202-F-91) and Jure Balazic (204-F-80) came up with timely buckets to seal the win for Krka. Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80) posted 13 points, while Jure Balazic had 11 points for Krka. Taylor Taylor Rochestie responded with 13 points for Le Mans. Charles Kahudi (197-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Travon Bryant (206-F-83, college: Missouri) had 10 points each in the loss.

Krka: Smiljan Pavic 13, Jure Balazic 11, Mustafa Abdul-Hamid 10, Edo Muric 10
Le Mans: Taylor Rochestie 13, Charles Kahudi 10, Travon Bryant 10


EuroCup: ASVEL finished off its Group C campaign in strong fashion - by Eurobasket News
ASVEL - Lukoil Academik 69:68 OT

ASVEL finished off its Group C campaign in strong fashion. Kim Kim Tillie (210-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Utah)'s jumper with three-tenths of a second left in overtime lifted Asvel Basket to a thrilling 69:68 victory over visiting Lukoil Academic
Lukoil Academik was ahead by 7 points at the halftime before a 15-5 third quarter run of ASVEL. They tied the game at the end of regular time. Then they were better in overtime eventually winning that period 13-12. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Lukoil Academik to just 5 points in third quarter. With 13-12 the French side won the overtime and secure the top place in the group.
It was a good game for Dijon Thompson (201-G/F-83, college: UCLA) who saved his team from a defeat with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Kim Tillie contributed with 19 points for the winners. Andre Owens (193-G-80, college: Houston) replied with 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Brandon Heath (193-G-84, college: San Diego St.) added 14 points and 5 assists in the effort for Lukoil Academik.

Lukoil Academik: Todor Stoykov (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances) 14, Brandon Heath 14+3reb+5ast, Andre Owens 11, Bruno Sundov (221-C-80, agency: Alti Sport) 10
ASVEL: D.Dijon Thompson 21, Kim Tillie 19, Phil Goss (186-G-83, college: Drexel) 10


EuroCup: BCM Gravelines wins Group A despite the loss in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk - Gravelines 80:69

BCM Gravelines became Eurocup regular season Group A champion despite an 80:69 road loss against BC Donetsk in Ukraine. The latter however handed the French side their first loss in the tournament.
The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter. A layup by Dmytro Gliebov ignited a 9-0 run in which Curry had 5 points to put Donetsk back ahead, 28-24. Ramel Curry , Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) and Vule Avdalovic (189-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) led a game-breaking 20-0 run that gave Donetsk a 63:46 margin late in the third quarter
BC Donetsk dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Gravelines-Dunkerque's 26. Ramel Curry (192-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) scored 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Ivan Radenovic chipped in 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest and Jackson netted 13. The best for the losing side was J.R. J.R. Reynolds (188-G-84, agency: SportsTalent, college: Virginia) with 17 points and 6 rebounds. J.K. Edwards (202-C/F-82, agency: Hoops Ambassadors, college: UNLV) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds, while Rudy Jomby (197-G/F-88) and Yannick Bokolo (190-G-85) notched 9 apiece.

Gravelines: J.R. Reynolds 17, J.K. Edwards 13, Rudy Jomby 9, Yannick Bokolo 9
BC Donetsk: Ramel Curry 21, Ivan Radenovic 15, Jackson 13, Vule Avdalovic 11


Ali Traore wins POW in VTB United League - by Eurobasket News
Ali Traore (207-C-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: S.Idaho JC) demonstrated wonderful performance in Round 12 of the VTB United League. The French big guy was the main contributor (23 points, nine rebounds and five assists) to Lokomotiv Kuban's victory, helping them to beat Azovmash (#6, 3-4) 84-76. Lokomotiv is placed at 4th position in VTB United League. They need more victories to improve their 4-4 record. Ali Traore joined Lokomotiv during the pre-season. He appeared five times in EuroCup so far averaging 13 points and 8.4 rebounds. He has slightly lower numbers in Russian league and VTB United. Ali Traore spent last season with Lottomatica Virtus Roma. He played for ASVEL, Le Havre and Roanne in the past. Traore is active member of the French National Team. He had 7.1 ppg and 2.2 rpg for 10 games at the EuroBasket in Lithuania helping France to win the Silver.

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GERMANY

Steffen Harvey to join BG Dorsten - by Moritz Korff
BG Dorsten (2. Bundesliga Pro B) has completed the signing of Steffen Harvey (188-G, college: Warner Pacific). The 25-year-old point guard will join the BG team in the second half of the season. By adding Harvey to the roster, coach Torsten Schierenbeck hopes to make up for the loss of Deon McDuffie (188-G-93), who left the team recently.
Harvey hails from Gresham, Oregon, but also holds a German passport. He is a 2009 graduate of NAIA D2 school Warner Pacific and has had two stints in German basketball so far. During the 2009-10 campaign Harvey averaged 10.7 points per contest (10 games) for BG Magdeburg in the 1. Regionalliga North. He then joined the UBC Hannover Tigers for the following season and appeared in nine Pro A encounters (4.6ppg, 2.1apg, 2.0rpg) until January 2011. After returning to the US he joined the Portland Chinooks of the IBL.

2012 Beko BBL All Star Rosters Complete - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The rosters for the 2012 Beko BBL Allstar game in Ludwigsburg on January 21st are set. After naming the starters last week, German national side coach Henrik Rodl has named Philipp Schwethelm (FC Bayern Mnchen), Johannes Lischka (EnBW Ludwigsburg), Karsten Tadda (Brose Baskets), Johannes Strasser (Artland Dragons), Chris McNaughton (Eisbren Bremerhaven) and Maik Zirbes (TBB Trier).International side coach Chris Fleming who has won 5 German titles has named David Holston (Artland Dragons), Isaiah Swann (ratiopharm ulm), John Bryant (ratiopharm ulm), Chevon Troutman (FC Bayern Mnchen), Marcus Slaughter (Brose Baskets), Anthony Leon Tucker (Brose Baskets) and Chris Ensminger (209-C-73, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Valparaiso) (Telekom Baskets Bonn). For Ensminger it will be his 9th All Star appearance and he seems like he could return a few more times in the next years the way he has been playing.

Starters German National Players
Heiko Schaffartzik (ALBA BERLIN, PG)
Robin Benzing (FC Bayern Mnchen, SF)
Tibor Pleiss (Brose Baskets, C)
Yassin Idbihi (ALBA BERLIN, C)
Philip Zwiener (TBB Trier, SF)

Bench German National Players
Per Gunther (ratiopharm ulm, PG)
Johannes Strasser (Artland Dragons, PG)
Karsten Tadda (Brose Baskets, SG)
Philipp Schwethelm (FC Bayern Mnchen, SF)
Johannes Lischka (EnBW Ludwigsburg, SF)
Chris McNaughton (Eisbren Bremerhaven, C)
Maik Zirbes (TBB Trier, C)

Starters International Players
DaShaun Wood (ALBA BERLIN, PG)
Rickey Paulding (EWE Baskets Oldenburg, SF)
JeKel Foster (FC Bayern Mnchen, SG)
Derrick Allen (ALBA BERLIN, PF)
Bobby Brown (EWE Baskets Oldenburg, PG)

Bench International Players
David Holston (Artland Dragons, PG)
Isaiah Swann (ratiopharm ulm, SG)
Anthony Leon Tucker (Brose Baskets, SF)
Marcus Slaughter (Brose Baskets, PF)
John Bryant (ratiopharm ulm, C)
Chevon Troutman (FC Bayern Mnchen, C)
Chris Ensminger (209-C-73, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Valparaiso) (Telekom Baskets Bonn, C)


EuroCup: Gran Canaria edge Skyliners, unable to reach Last 16 - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria - Skyliners 71:58

Gran Canaria finished their EuroCup regular season campaign with the win. They held off visiting Skyliners but it did not help the Spaniards to reach the next round. Banvit beat Lokomotiv Kuban in another game in Group E as both teams advanced into the next round leaving Gran Canaria without EuroCup Last 16. Skyliners in the meantime suffered the sixth loss in a row.
The German team secured a brave start as they led by five points after ten minutes of action. But Gran Canaria managed to erase the deficit and recorded a 30:28 halftime lead. Gran Canaria maintained a defensive pressure in the third term and cleared off to an 8-point lead with one quarter remaining 49:41. Skyliners never threatened the margin in the final frame as the hosts cruised to the victory. Spencer Nelson (203-F-80, college: Utah St.) posted 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for Gran Canaria. Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) and Javier Beiran (200-F-87) had 9 points each for the winners. Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) answered with 27 points for Skyliners. Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) netted 16 points and grabbed 16 boards in defeat.

Gran Canaria: Spencer Nelson 15, Marquez Haynes 9, Javier Beiran 9
Skyliners: Jimmy McKinney 27, Jermareo Davidson 16+16 boards


BSV Wulfen Sign Rodriguez Sherman - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO B team BSV Wulfen have signed Rodriguez Sherman (188-G-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) who goes by the name Rod to help strengthen the guad position. Sherman is a 24 year old 188cm guard from Indianapolis, Indiana who will be making his professional basketball debut in Germany. He played at Kent St. (NCAA) from 2006-2011 and in his senior year played 36 games: 12.6ppg, 3.8rpg, 2.9apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 37.1%, FT: 75.2%. Sherman will give us the needed stability at the guard position. He comes from a good college and showed team play. We hope he will do the same here and give Steve Briggs a rest so he can play in the last minutes and have full energy', stressed BSV Wulfen head coach Sebatian Borgmann.Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been MAC All-Freshman Team -07, MAC East Division Regular Season Runner-Up -07, MAC Tournament Semifinals -07, MAC Tournament Winner -08, MAC East Division Regular Season Champion -08, 10, 11, MAC Tournament Finalist -11, All-MAC 2nd Team -11, and NIT Elite Eight -11

Source: BSV Wulfen


Saar-Pfalz Braves part ways with leading scorer Robert McKiver - by Moritz Korff
The Saar-Pfalz Braves and their leading scorer Robert McKiver (191-G-84, college: Houston) have parted company by mutual consent, the club announced today. The termination of the contract is effective already, thus the Braves will have to hold their own without McKiver in their last game prior to the christmas break against Essen on Wednesday. McKiver had 13 appearances on the Saar-Pfalz squad this season, scoring a team high 20.2 points per outing. The 26-year-old also led the Braves in total three pointers made (35) and free throw shooting (89.6%)

EuroCup: ALBA upset Buducnost in Montenegro - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost - ALBA 57:72

ALBA Berlin registered the fifth win in EuroCup regular season. They toppled Buducnost on the road to take 5-1 record on top of Group H. Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds for ALBA. Buducnost fell at 3-3 record but still made it into the Last 16 round.
ALBA enjoyed almost a perfect start. They built a 20:10 lead after ten minutes of action. Buducnost came back to life in the second period. The hosts trimmed the deficit to 6 points 28:34 at halftime. But ALBA once again increased the tempo in the third term and established a 13-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. Buducnost had no answers in the final part of the encounter and surrendered at the end. Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) posted 14 points, while Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) nailed 10 points in the win. Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) answered with 12 points for Buducnost. Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in the loss.

Buducnost: Aleksa Popovic 12, Cedomir Vitkovac 11
ALBA: Yassin Idbihi 21, Marko Simonovic 14, Heiko Schaffartzik 10


Steffen Harvey Joins BG Dorsten - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO B team BG Dorsten has gotten help at the point guard position bringing in Steffen Harvey. Harvey is a 25 year old 183cm point guard who was born in Portland,Oregon that also has the German citzenship and will replace Deon Mcduffie who recently left the team.Harvey is no stranger to the style of German basketball as he played there the last two years. In 2009-2010, he played for BG Magdeburg (Germany-Regionalliga): 10 games: 10.7ppg. Last season, he played for UBC Hannover Tigers (Germany-ProA), left in Jan.'11: 9 games: 4.6ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.1apg. he also has gained experience in the States playing for Warner Pacific (NAIA) from 2007-2009. In his last year, he played 30 games: 4.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 45.8%, 3Pts: 32.7%, FT: 76.9%. Harvey will join the team on December 28th.



EnBW Ludwigsburg Ax Markus Jochum - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

After seven loses in the last eight games and the bitter loss last weekend to the Telekom Baskets Bonn, Beko BBL team EnBW Ludwigsburg have reacted by axing head coach Markus Jochum . Jochum came to Ludwigsburg in the summer of 2010 and after a very slow start where the team started 2-6, he the led the team to a 16-10 record just missing the playoffs. This season, he kept seven players and brought in strong players like Mark Dorris, Kurt Looby and Jeff Greer and it seemed like reaching the promised land this season could be accomplished. The team started off well with wins against teams like Oldenburg and Bremerhaven, but in last weeks remained below their expectations.Currently the team is in 14th place and will hand over the regions to assistant coach Steven Key who coached the LTi Giessen 46ers last season. 'We regret having to take this step especially since Markus Jochum has achieved so much for this organization, but the current situation forced us to take this step', added Alexander Reil.

Source: EnBW Ludwigsburg




2012 NBBL Allstars Named - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The NBBL German Allstars were named to day to take part at the Beko BBL festivities in January 2011. The players were chosen by all the coaches in the NBBL and coaching the north team will be Sebastian Steinmller (Bramfelder SV) and Falk Mller (Phoenix Hagen Juniors). Coaching the south team will be Frank Moeller (Science City Jena) and Rene Ullrich (Basket-College Rhein-Neckar).

North Roster:

Marc Nagora
(05.10.1993, 2,03 Meter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Bramfelder SV, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Leon Tolksdorf
(27.11.1993, 1,98 Meter, Small Forward/Power Forward, ALBA Berlin, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Dennis Schrder
(15.09.1993, 1,81 Meter, Point Guard, Junior Phantoms Braunschweig/Wolfenbttel, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Greg Onwegbuzie
(09.03.1993, 1,90 Meter, Shooting Guard, BBT Gttingen, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Ismet Akpinar
(22.05.1995, 1,95 Meter, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Piraten Hamburg, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Fabian Bleck
(19.03.1993, 1,98 Meter, Shooting Guard/ Small Forward, Phoenix Hagen Juniors, 2. ALLSTAR game)

Till Gloger
(26.01.1993, 2,04 Meter, Power Forward/Center, Paderborn Baskets, 1. ALLSTAR game

Isaiah Omamogho
(21.06.1993, 1,83 Meter, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Young Dragons Quakenbrck, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Jonathan Malu
(19.03.1993, 1,98 Meter, Power Forward/Center, Eisbren Bremerhaven, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Jan Knig
(06.06.1993, 2,01 Meter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Baskets Akademie Weser-Ems, 1. ALLSTAR game)

South Roster

Julius Seither
(04.03.1994, 2,02 Meter, Power Forward/Center, Basket-College Rhein-Neckar, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Paul Zipser
(18.02.1994, 1,96 Meter, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Basket-College Rhein-Neckar, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Moritz Tielemann
(19.02.1994, 1,96 Meter, Small Forward, TBB Junior Team, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Josip Peric
(04.01.1993, 1,82 Meter, Point Guard, Science City Jena, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93)
(11.07.1993, 2,13 Meter, Center, FC Bayern Mnchen, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Malik Mller
(24.01.1994, 1,88 Meter, Shooting Guard, Team ALBA Urspring, 1. ALLSTAR game)

David Taylor
(09.01.1995, 1,86 Meter, Shooting Guard, CYBEX Bayreuth, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Maximilian Ugrai
(28.07.1995, 1,98 Meter, Small Forward/Power Forward, s.Oliver Baskets Akademie, 1. ALLSTAR game)
.

Johannes Richter
(06.12.1993, 2,05 Meter, Power Forward/Center, TSV Trster Breitengbach, 1. ALLSTAR game)

Andreas Wenzl
(07.02.1993, 2,10 Meter, Center, ratiopharm akademie, 2. ALLSTAR game)

Source: www.nbbl-basketball.de



Marquez Haynes (Gran Canaria) Quantez Robertson Is Relentless How He Attacks The Basket - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) is a 24 year old 191 cm guard from Irving Texas that is playing his first season in the ACB for Gran Canara as is their current leading scorer. He played at Boston College from 2005-2007 before transferring to Texas Arlington (NCAA) where he played from 2008-2010. In his senior year he was the third best scorer in the NCAA averaging (22.6ppg), 4.3rpg, 3.7apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 48.3%, 3PT: 40.9%, FT: 74.6%. Last season, he started his professional basketball career for ES Chalon-Sur-Saone (France-ProA, starting five): 33 games: 14.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 38.3%, FT: 73.1%. Currently he is averaging 12,1ppg, 1,8rpg and 2,4apg. He played at the 2011 European championships for Georgia playing 8 games: 8.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 53.3%. He reached the NCAA Sweet 16 with Boston College in 2006 and won the French Cup with Chalon in 2011. Eurobasket spoke with the American before the Eurocup game against the Fraport Skyliners December 20th.

Congrats on the 89-70 win against Blancos de Rueda. What was key for getting this big win?

The key for the win was our rebounding and good shooting. We got off to a hot start shooting and jumped out on them early. It was nice to play with a lead throughout the game.


The team is slowly climbing the ladder back up the ACB standings and are currently at 12th place. What have been the main reasons for the turnaround in the ACB in the last weeks?

The main reasons for the turnaround is that I think we are simply starting to get better. Some teams have perfect chemistry from the get go and we are still searching for ours. We have made some good offensive adjustments also and we are playing faster and with more confidence.

You exploded for 35 points. When was the last time that you were in the zone like that?

I don't really even think i was in the zone to be honest. I shot 10-18... thats not really in the zone. But I made some shots early and got to the free throw line. Then I got a couple of easy baskets so it made for a big night. Last time I was truly in the zone was 2 years ago in my senior year in college. I scored 38. 30 in the 2nd half and at one point I had 19 points in a 4 minute stretch. It was insane


The last Eurocup game of the season against the Fraport Skyliners Tuesday. What is your memory of the first game in Frankfurt some weeks ago?

The first memory was that Jon Leuer was killing us lol. They are a talented team though. We must take care of business at home to have any chance.


If Banvit wins against Lok Kuban, they advance and if they lose and Gran Canaria wins you will move ahead. Will the Fraport Skyliners see an intensity of Gran Canaria that they have never seen before?

I think the game will be intense but we try to always play that way. They have not played in our arena. Our fans get wild. It will be a fun game.


If you could take one quality of Quantez Robertsons game and put it into your game what would you take?

It would be the way he attacks the basket. He is relentless.


What kind of new dimension will Baron Davis give the New York Knicks?

Baron Davis will give the knicks a dangerous outside weapon. He is a big strong guard who still has good basketball left in him. I think that is a good situation for him.


What is your fondest Christmas memory as a kid?

Fondest Christmas memory was when my dad bought me this Michael Jordan lettermen's jacket. I lost it the next month and got a pretty good whooping for it lol. That thing cost a lot of money.


What is the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD I saw was Thor. It was pretty good. Lot of action. I like superhero movies.

Thanks Marquez for the chat.


EuroCup: Bayern edge Cedevita in Munich - by Eurobasket News
Bayern - Cedevita 80:65

Bayern finished their EuroCup campaign with victory. They beat Cedevita at home court to sweeten the pill of Group G unsuccessful journey. Robin Benzing (208-F-89) and Jonathan Wallace (187-G-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgetown) posted 14 points to pace the hosts.
Bayern marked their ambitions early in the game. They outgunned Cedevita 25:17 in the opening frame. Bayern consolidated the lead in the second period. The hosts stretched the gap to as many as 19 points at halftime 46:27. Cedevita showed character in the third stanza. They narrowed the deficit and got within 16 points with one quarter remaining. But Bayern wisely kept the Croatian team at distance throughout the fourth term and earned an easy win at the end. Chevon Troutman (202-F-81, agency: ACMT, college: Pittsburgh) accounted for 13 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for Bayern. Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) responded with 15 points for Cedevita. Vedran Vukusic (206-F-82, college: Northwestern) had 13 points in the loss.

Bayern: Robin Benzing 14, Jonathan Wallace 14, Chevon Troutman 13
Cedevita: Dontaye Draper 15, Vedran Vukusic 13


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GREECE

Greek A2 round 12 best performance: Fotis Vasilopoulos - by Eurobasket News
Guard Fotis Vasilopoulos (187-G-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked AEK, receiving a Eurobasket.com A2 Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 25-year old player was the main contributor (32 points, three rebounds and six assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush Lavrio (#6, 7-5) with 16-point margin 97-81. AEK is placed at 2nd position in Greek 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 9-3 record. In the team's last game Vasilopoulos had a remarkable 57.1% from 2-point range and got eight three-pointers out of 12 attempts. He turned to be AEK's top player in his first season with the team. Fotis Vasilopoulos has solid league stats. He is in league's top in points (3rd best: 20.0ppg), assists (7th best: 4.8apg) and averages impressive 55.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 32-year old former international guard Savvas Iliadis (192-G-79) of Ermis Lagkada. Iliadis had a very good evening with 30 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Of course he lead Ermis Lagkada to another comfortable win outscoring AEK/Argous (#16, 0-12) 85-64. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. But Ermis Lagkada managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 9th place. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-6 record is not bad and everything may still change. Iliadis is a newcomer at Ermis Lagkada, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.7ppg (#1). His other stats are also decent: 4.9rpg and 3.8apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was center Nikos Libaris-Psomas (210-C-84) of Doxa Lefkadas (#12). Libaris-Psomas scored 16 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). Despite Libaris-Psomas' great performance Doxa Lefkadas lost 53-54 to Periko/Arhelaos (5-7). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Doxa Lefkadas ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 7 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Libaris-Psomas could help Doxa Lefkadas to bring them higher in the standings. Libaris-Psomas has a very solid season. In 12 games in Greece he scored 8.7ppg. He also has 6.0rpg and FGP: 55.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vaggelis Sklavos (202-F-77) of AEK - 23 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Dimitris Katiakos (205-C/F-87) of OFI - 21 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Dimitris Lolas (203-F-86) of Amyntas Dafnis - 7 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Giannis Rodostoglou (197-G-83) of Panerythraikos - 29 points and 7 rebounds
8. Nikolaos Kourtis) of AEK - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Giorgos Anagnostopoulos (207-C-80) of Ermis Lagkada - 14 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Christos Petrodimopoulos (209-C/F-80) of Nea Kifisia - 22 points, 8 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)

Greeks of Diaspora - by Chris Mammides
Eurobasket.com is launchign a new article in regards to the Greeks playing abroad.

The first article is an award won by the Greek American player Michael Bizoukas (187-G-90)

Michael Bizoukas Earns Second MVC Newcomer of the Week Honor - Michael Bizoukas is MVC Newcomer of the Week

After setting the JQH Arena assists record against Kennesaw State on Dec. 17, Michael Michael Bizoukas (Sr., G, Munster, Ind.) was named MVC Newcomer of the Week on Monday (Dec. 19).

This is Michael Bizoukas' second MVC Newcomer of the Week honor this season. He is the fourth MSU player to be honored as the leagues top newcomer in 2011-12.

His 11 assists against KSU on Saturday was a career-high for Michael Bizoukas, a transfer from DePaul University who is averaging 8.7 assists with just three turnovers in the last three contests. He also has 14 rebounds in that span. In the Bears' only game last week, a 78-55 win over KSU in the opening round of the Continental Tire Las Vegas Classic, Michael Bizoukas also knocked down a pair of three-pointers and blocked two shots.

Missouri State has landed four MVC Newcomer of the Week honors in six weeks. In addition to this week's award, Michael Bizoukas also claimed the honor on Nov. 21. Anthony Downing (Jr., G, Atchison, Kan., Independence [Kan.] CC) earned the award on Nov. 14, while Jarmar Gulley (Jr., G/F, Beaumont, Texas, Highland [Kan.] CC) was presented the laurels on Dec. 12.

Since the inception of the league award in 2003-04, three or more players from the same school have won the honor in the same season just three times previously -- 5 by Creighton in 2007-08, 4 by Illinois State in 2006-07, and 4 by Bradley in 2004-05). The MVC record for most Newcomers of the Week in a single season by one school is 10 by Creighton in 2007-08.

The Bears (6-3) continue the Las Vegas Classic at JQH Arena tonight

News taken by the official site: http://www.missouristatebears.com/



Greek A1 round 9 best performance: Nestoras Kommatos - by Eurobasket News
Former international forward Nestoras Kommatos (203-F-77) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Marousi, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
The 34-year old player was the main contributor (36 points, eight rebounds and three assists) to as his team Marousi maintains the 13th position in Greek A1. They are still not able to win a single game in the league yet. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked at the very bottom. They already lost 9 games and recorded no victories. In the team's last game Kommatos had a remarkable 100.0% from 2-point range and got six three-pointers out of 11 attempts. He turned to be Marousi's top player in his first season with the team. Nestoras Kommatos has solid league stats. He is in league's top in points (3rd best: 17.9ppg), rebounds (7th best: 6.4rpg) and averages impressive 52.4% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Dionte Christmas (196-G-86) of AGOR. Christmas had a very good evening with 24 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. Of course he lead AGOR to another comfortable win 75-62 over Peristeri GS (5-3) being unquestionably team leader. This victory allowed AGOR to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 5-3 record is not bad and everything may still change. Christmas is a newcomer at AGOR, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.1ppg (#2).

Third on the list of top players last round was Cameroonian forward Harding NaNa (203-F-81) of Ilysiakos (#10). NaNa scored 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Despite NaNa's great performance Ilysiakos lost 67-83 to slightly higher-ranked Aris (#8, 3-5). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Ilysiakos not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 6 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, NaNa could try to bring Ilysiakos' a little bit higher in the standings. NaNa has a very solid season. In 9 games in Greece he scored 9.4ppg. He also has 4.6rpg and FGP: 58.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Angelos Tsamis (192-G-81) of Kolossos - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Kosta Charalampidis (189-G-76) of KAOD - 25 points and 3 assists
6. Dimos Dikoudis (206-F/C-77) of PAOK - 21 points and 4 rebounds
7. Marcus Goree (201-F-77) of PAOK - 12 points and 10 rebounds
8. Steven Smith (203-F-83) of Panathinaikos - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Sergio Kerusch (195-F) of Aris - 16 points and 8 rebounds
10. Brent Petway (204-F-85) of AGOR - 21 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)

Stats Leaders - A1

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Kosta CHARALAMPIDIS   KAO.   (189-G-76)   Avg: 20

1. Charalampidi., KAO. 20.0   2. Christmas, AGOR 19.1   3. Kommatos, Marousi 17.9   4. Tapoutos, Aris 17.0   5. Roby, Peristeri GS 16.4   6. Baynes, Ikaros 14.6   7. Taylor, Kavala 14.0   8. Tsamis, Kolossos 13.9   9. Gagaloudis, Marousi 13.6   10. James, Aris 13.3

Rebounds Per Game

Aron BAYNES   Ikaros   (208-C-86)   Avg: 8.7

1. Baynes, Ikaros 8.7   2. Stepheson, Panio. 8.5   3. Haritopoulos, Maro. 8.0   4. Goree, PAOK 7.0   5. Flowers, KAOD 6.7   6. Tapoutos, Aris 6.5   7. Kommatos, Marousi 6.4   8. Giddens, PAOK 6.3   9. Charissis, Kolossos 6.1   10. Scott, Peristeri 5.8

Assists Per Game

Vasilis XANTHOPOULOS   Panio.   (187-G-84)   Avg: 5.8

1. Xanthopoulos, Pani. 5.8   2. Gagaloudis, Marousi 5.3   3. Spanoulis, Olympia. 5.1   4. Diamantidis, Panat. 4.9   5. James, Aris 4.3   6. Charalampidi., KAO. 4.3   7. Thompson, Ilysi. 4.2   8. Petroulas, Periste. 3.9   9. Wright, AGOR 3.9   10. Tsaldaris, Aris 3.3

Steals Per Game

Zack WRIGHT   AGOR   (188-G-85)   Avg: 2.3

1. Wright, AGOR 2.3   2. Thompson, Ilysi. 2.2   3. Christmas, AGOR 1.9   4. Tsamis, Kolossos 1.6   5. Tsaldaris, Aris 1.5   6. Hatten, Kolossos 1.4   7. James, Aris 1.4   8. Logan, Panathin. 1.4   9. Diamantidis, Panat. 1.4   10. Calathes, Panathi. 1.4

Blocks Per Game

Patrick O''BRYANT   Kavala   (213-C-86)   Avg: 1.6

1. O''Bryant, Kavala 1.6   2. Muldrow, Aris 1.6   3. Flowers, KAOD 1.3   4. Hines, Olympiakos 1.3   5. Giddens, PAOK 1.1   6. Johnson, Ikaros 1.0   7. Scott, Peristeri GS 1.0   8. Michel, KAOD 0.9   9. Vougioukas, Panat. 0.9   10. Stepheson, Panio. 0.8

Stats Leaders - A2

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Savvas ILIADIS   Ermis L.   (192-G-79)   Avg: 20.7

1. Iliadis, Ermis L. 20.7   2. Argyropoylos, Apol. 20.1   3. Vasilopoulos, AEK 20.0   4. Gizogiannis, Arkad. 18.0   5. Psileas, Lavrio 17.5   6. Totsios, Ikaroi S. 17.3   7. Sinadinovic, AEK/A. 16.4   8. Magounis, Panele. 16.3   9. Pettas, Doxa L. 16.1   10. Sklavos, AEK 16.0

Rebounds Per Game

Dimitris LOLAS   Amyntas .   (203-F-86)   Avg: 9.1

1. Lolas, Amyntas 9.1   2. Krolo, Apollon Pat. 8.6   3. Gizogiannis, Arkad. 8.3   4. Toutziarakis, OFI 8.2   5. Macheras, Panery. 7.8   6. Sklavos, AEK 7.8   7. Maglos, AE. 7.7   8. Margaritis, Ikaroi 7.2   9. Kakiouzis, Lavrio 6.9   10. Paschalis, Perama 6.8

Assists Per Game

Miron PAPADAKIS   Arkad.   (183-G-88)   Avg: 7.7

1. Papadakis, Arkad. 7.7   2. Zoupas, Amyntas 5.8   3. Koronidis, Perama 5.2   4. Nikou, Panelefs. 4.9   5. Kaberidis, Ikaroi 4.9   6. Vasilopoulos, AEK 4.8   7. Makris, Pagrati 4.6   8. Kekelis, Ermis L. 4.4   9. Panagakis, OFI 4.1   10. Argyropoylos, Apo. 3.9

Steals Per Game

Evaggelis MARGARITIS   Ikaroi S.   (202-F/C-82)   Avg: 2.1

1. Margaritis, Ikaroi 2.1   2. Vasilopoulos, AEK 1.9   3. Nikitakis, Nea K. 1.7   4. Magounis, Panele. 1.7   5. Pettas, Doxa L. 1.6   6. Tsiotras, Arkadikos 1.6   7. Kallianotis, Paner. 1.5   8. Iliadis, Ermis L. 1.5   9. Totsios, Ikaroi S. 1.5   10. Sinnis, Lavrio 1.5

Blocks Per Game

Nikos LIBARIS-PSOMAS   Doxa L.   (210-C-84)   Avg: 1

1. Libaris-P., Doxa L. 1.0   2. Toutziarakis, OFI 1.0   3. Bracey, Pagrati 1.0   4. Krolo, Apollon Pat. 0.9   5. Vagenas, Doxa L. 0.8   6. Petrodimopou., Nea 0.8   7. Katoufas, Panery. 0.8   8. Anagnostopou., Erm. 0.7   9. Voivatopoulo., Ika. 0.6   10. Michalopoulo., Ne. 0.6

Standings - A2

A2 Standings

1. Panelefsiniakos 10-2   2. AEK 9-3   3. Apollon Patras 8-4   4. Ikaroi Serron 7-5   5. OFI 7-5   6. Lavrio 7-5   7. Arkadikos 6-6   8. Panerythraikos 6-6   9. Ermis Lagkada 6-6   10. Perama Ermis 6-6   11. Pagrati 5-7   12. Doxa Lefkadas 5-7   13. Nea Kifisia 5-7   14. Periko/Arhelaos 5-7   15. Amyntas Dafnis 4-8   16. AEK/Argous 0-12

Standings - A1

A1 Standings

1. Olympiakos 8-1   2. Kolossos 7-1   3. Panathinaikos 7-1   4. Panionios 6-2   5. AGOR 5-3   6. Peristeri GS 5-3   7. Kavala 4-5   8. Aris 3-5   9. PAOK 3-6   10. Ilysiakos 3-6   11. KAOD 2-6   12. Ikaros 1-7   13. Marousi 0-9

EuroCup: Aris secure second place in Group C - by Eurobasket News
Aris - Rudupis 96:86 OT

Aris secure second place in Group C after an overtime thriller over Rudupis. The Greek side advanced to the next stage after 96:86 win and improved to 4-2 record. The Lithuanian team dropped at 3-3 to finish third.
Both teams nailed 20 points in the opening period, while the home side needed 22-16 in the second quarter to take 42:36 halftime advantage. Moreover they led 65:60 but allowed them guests to tie the score at 78:78 after four quarters. Aris reclaimed the lead on Dominic James (180-PG-86, college: Marquette)s three-point play and Sergio Kerusch (195-F, college: W.Kentucky) and Ronald Davis (190-G-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) also scored to finish up a 9-0 run. The Greek side grabbed the necessary win and advanced to the next stage.
Dominic James top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Ronald Davis netted 19. Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82) collected 18 points and 11rebounds, while Sergio Kerusch and Dimitrios Tsaldaris (196-G/F-80) netted 13 each. Arminas Urbutis (205-C/F-86, college: Hofstra) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) posted 14. Gintaras Kadziulis (193-G-80) scored 12 and Simas Buterlevicius (200-F-89) as well as Adas Juskevicius (194-G/F-89) had 10 each.

Rudupis: Arminas Urbutis 20, Dainius Salenga 14, Gintaras Kadziulis 12, Simas Buterlevicius 10, Adas Juskevicius 10
Aris: Dominic James 22, Ronald Davis 19, Christos Tapoutos 18+11rebs, Sergio Kerusch 13, Dimitrios Tsaldaris 13



EuroCup: Cholet overcame PAOK but both teams farewell to the tournament - by Eurobasket News
Cholet - PAOK 69:66

Cholet overcame PAOK but both teams farewell to EuroCup season. Even after 69:66 win, the French side allowed Khimky and VEF Riga to enter the next stage.
Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked French Cholet and one of their biggest challengers Greek PAOK had identical 1-4 record. This time Cholet used a home court advantage and edged the opponent from Thessaloniki 69:66 on Tuesday night. PAOK was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. PAOK was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Fabien Causeur (193-G-87) who scored 27 points and 4 assists. Patrick Christopher (196-G-88, college: California) chipped in 17 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78, agency: FCM) who recorded 18 points and 7 rebounds and J.R. Giddens (196-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively.

PAOK: Giannis Kalambokis 18, J.R. Giddens 17, Nikos Kalles (211-F/C-87) 13
Cholet: Fabien Causeur 27, Patrick Christopher 17, Robert Hite (188-G-84, college: Miami, FL) 7


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

HOLLAND

EuroCup: CEZ Nymburk advanced to Last 16 winning Group C - by Eurobasket News
Groningen - CEZ Nymburk 75:92

CEZ Nymburk advanced to Last 16 winning Group C of EuroCup. The Czech champions beat on the road bottom-ranked Dutch Groningen 92:75 on Tuesday. The latter finished with no victories in the tournament.
CEZ Nymburk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Nymburk jumped ahead 0-9 before David Bell (186-G-81) scored 7 straight points for GasTerra to make it 9:7. GasTerra closed the first half on a roll with eight straight points to trail just 48:36 at the break. It was a great shooting night for CEZ Nymburk especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 62.5 percentage. Groningen was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch.
The best player for the winners was Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, college: St.John's) who scored 14 points and 8 assists. A.J. Abrams (180-G-86, college: Texas) chipped in 17 points. At the other side the best for losing team was David Bell who recorded 15 points and Alex Wesby added 7 points and 5 rebounds respectively.

Groningen: David Bell 15, Jason Dourisseau (196-G-83, college: Nebraska) 9, Avis Wyatt (211-F/C-84, college: Virginia St.) 9
CEZ Nymburk: A.J. Abrams 17, Eugene Lawrence 14, Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices, college: Washington) 14, Andrew Naymick (211-C-85, agency: Warren Sports International) 14


Happy Holidays - by Tyrone Sally
Whats going on world? Its me again, blogging live from the clouds, literally. I'm on my way back home for the holidays.

Being up here gives you time to think. It gives you the chance to get away from reality for a little bit.to think, listen to music, watch movies or whatever it is you do during this time. I, myself, choose to use some of this 8 hour flight to reflect and touch on a few things if yall don't mind. Of course yall don't mind, you don't have a choice..lol. Nah, all jokes asides first and for most, I want to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday this year. Enjoy your time with family and friends. Spending this time with your loved ones is priceless. In my profession, a lot of guys I know personally won't have that chance this year because of the sacrifice they're willing to make in order to provide for their families and they get a big salute from me! Things like that are what you sign up for with overseas basketball or any sport.

Looking from the outside in, a lot people think they can handle a situation like that but in actuality, we all know a lot of them wouldn't last. This year, I'm one of a few players I know that get the chance to come home, which I'm grateful for. It gives me time to recover before heading into the second half of the season which will be well needed but Ill go more into that in my next blog entry. This blog is more of a shout out to all the players that wont be able to go home and will be away from their families during the holidays. I want to wish you fellas and ladies a personal happy holidays and a safe new year wherever you're spending it.

For the rookies and first time players overseas use this time to learn how to cook. If you don' know how this is the perfect time to start learning. Don't eat McDonald's for Christmas dinner! I'm not mad at that though, overseas life lol. Seriously though, everybody take care and take your time out there, thanks for reading and keeping up with the blog. Ty Sal


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

HUNGARY

A Division Stats Leaders

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Justin INGRAM   FS Debre.   (185-PG-85)   Avg: 25.5

1. Ingram, FS Debre. 25.5   2. Ivosev, Szedeak 23.9   3. Raivio, Kaposvari 23.1   4. Timberlake, Falco-. 23.0   5. Ciric, PVSK P. 21.4   6. Doyne, PVSK P. 20.7   7. Jones, Jaszberenyi 20.2   8. Townes, Kormend 19.0   9. Bell, Kormend 18.9   10. Wilson, Kaposvari 18.5

Rebounds Per Game

Jonathan JONES   Jaszberenyi   (211-C-79)   Avg: 12.6

1. Jones, Jaszberenyi 12.6   2. Szabo, FS Debrecen 10.6   3. Miskovic, Marso N. 10.0   4. Ivosev, Szedeak 8.9   5. Townes, Kormend 8.8   6. Pantelic, Falco-Sz. 8.8   7. Raivio, Kaposvari 8.4   8. Fey, Kaposvari 8.3   9. Egemonye, Soproni 8.1   10. Hines, ZTE K. 7.9

Assists Per Game

Laszlo KALMAN   Falco-Sz.   (186-G-72)   Avg: 7.3

1. Kalman, Falco-Sz. 7.3   2. Wilson, Kaposvari 6.2   3. Simon, Albacomp 5.5   4. Fekete, Marso N. 5.5   5. Williams, Atomeromu 5.5   6. Trotter, Szolnok 5.4   7. Ingram, FS Debre. 5.1   8. Doyne, PVSK P. 4.8   9. Drahos, Szedeak 4.5   10. El Amin, Albacomp 4.1

Steals Per Game

Stefan FEKETE   Marso N.   (188-G-86)   Avg: 3.3

1. Fekete, Marso N. 3.3   2. Drahos, Szedeak 3.2   3. Ivosev, Szedeak 2.9   4. Kelley, Kecskemeti 2.5   5. Raivio, Kaposvari 2.5   6. Trotter, Szolnok 2.5   7. Wilson, Kaposvari 2.4   8. Wittmann, Kecsk. 2.4   9. Doyne, PVSK P. 2.3   10. Ingram, FS Debre. 2.3

Blocks Per Game

Darian TOWNES   Kormend   (208-F/C-84)   Avg: 2.2

1. Townes, Kormend 2.2   2. Pantelic, Falco-Sz. 2.0   3. Jones, Jaszberenyi 1.4   4. Morgen, Atomeromu 1.2   5. Ivosev, Szedeak 1.1   6. Chism, Albacomp 1.1   7. Levy, Szedeak 1.1   8. Egemonye, Soproni 1.1   9. Fey, Kaposvari 1.0   10. Cole, Atomeromu 1.0

Standings - A Division

A Division Standings

1. Albacomp 10-1   2. Kormend 10-1   3. Falco-Szova 10-2   4. Szolnok 8-3   5. Atomeromu 7-4   6. Kaposvari 6-5   7. Kecskemeti 6-5   8. PVSK Pannon 5-6   9. Szedeak 4-7   10. Soproni 4-7   11. FS Debrecen 3-8   12. Marso NYKK 3-9   13. Jaszberenyi 2-9   14. ZTE KK 0-11

A Division Round 11: Top-ranked Albacomp wins another game - by Eurobasket News
A Division top team - Albacomp (10-1) managed to deliver another win on Saturday. This time they beat fourteenth ranked ZTE KK (0-11) in Zalaegerszeg 71-59. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 37-24 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. 24 personal fouls committed by ZTE KK helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 7 rebounds. The former international point guard Balazs Simon (188-80, agency: Court Side) contributed with 22 points and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. American forward Chris Hines (203, college: Alabama, agency: Court Side) answered with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds for ZTE KK. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Albacomp have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-1 record, which they share with Kormend. Defending champion ZTE KK still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Albacomp is looking forward to face Atomeromu (#5) in Paks in the next round. ZTE KK will play on the road against FS Debrecen (#11) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Soproni (#9) forced the game against Kaposvari (#7) into an overtime, but lost by six points 91-97. The game took place in Sopron. But the guests from Kaposvar were better at the end. It was a great evening for American point guard Josh Wilson (188-87, college: N.Arizona, agency: Hightower Law Firm) who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!), 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field). Nik Raivio helped adding 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Nigerian center Benson Egemonye (207-83, college: Niagara) responded with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 18 rebounds. The victory was the third consecutive win for Kaposvari. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Kecskemeti. Soproni at the other side keeps the ninth position with seven games lost. They share it with Szedeak. Kaposvari will play against higher ranked Falco-Szova (#3) in Szombathely in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Soproni will play on the road against Marso NYKK (#12) in Nyiregyhaza and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Kecskemet was also quite interesting. Second ranked Kormend (10-1) played at the court of 5th ranked Kecskemeti (6-5). Kormend did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 89-71 on Saturday. It was an exceptional evening for Darian Townes who led the winners and scored 24 points and 9 rebounds. Kormend's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Ivan Vukadinov came up with 19 points for Kecskemeti in the defeat. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Kormend. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Albacomp. Kecskemeti lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Kaposvari. Kormend will meet at home Szolnok (#4) in the next round. Kecskemeti will play against Jaszberenyi and hope to secure a win.
The game between third ranked Falco-Szova (10-2) and 12th ranked Marso NYKK (3-9) in Szombathely ended with biggest points difference. Falco-Szova outscored guests from Nyiregyhaza 105-67. The best player for the winners was Chad Timberlake who scored 23 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Falco-Szova maintains third place with 10-2 record having just -1 point less than leader Albacomp. Marso NYKK lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with nine games lost. Falco-Szova's next round opponent will be Kaposvari (#6) on the road. Marso NYKK will play against Soproni (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 11: Szedeak beat Marso NYKK on the road 80-76. Szolnok was destroyed by Atomeromu on its own court 68-96. Jaszberenyi unfortunately lost to Falco-Szova in Szombathely 74-92. PVSK Pannon managed to beat FS Debrecen at home 90-83.


Soproni - Kaposvari 91-97 OT

Soproni (#9) forced the game against Kaposvari (#7) into an overtime, but lost by six points 91-97. The game took place in Sopron. But the guests from Kaposvar were better at the end. Soproni was ahead by 6 points after three quarters before a 23-17 charge of Kaposvari, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 18-12. Kaposvari made 20-of-26 charity shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Soproni was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for American point guard Josh Wilson (188-87, college: N.Arizona, agency: Hightower Law Firm) who led his team to a victory scoring 33 points (!!!), 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field). His fellow American import guard Nik Raivio (192-86, college: Portland, agency: Priority Sports) helped adding 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Wilson is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Kaposvari players scored in double figures. Nigerian center Benson Egemonye (207-83, college: Niagara) responded with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 18 rebounds and American guard Dontay Thomas (186-84, college: La Salle) scored 25 points and 5 assists. The victory was the third consecutive win for Kaposvari. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Kecskemeti. Soproni at the other side keeps the ninth position with seven games lost. They share it with Szedeak. Kaposvari will play against higher ranked Falco-Szova (#3) in Szombathely in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Soproni will play on the road against Marso NYKK (#12) in Nyiregyhaza and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Kaposvari: J.Wilson 33+5reb+6ast, N.Raivio 26+5reb+4ast, M.Fey 17+10reb, B.Szoke 16+5reb+1ast, J.Lekli 5+9reb, B.Biro 0
Soproni: B.Egemonye 29+18reb, D.Thomas 25+1reb+5ast, A.Molnar 11+8reb+3ast, J.Rubin 9+4reb+4ast, G.Gombas 7+4reb+1ast, Z.Vesztergom 5+1reb+2ast

gschID: 146687

Marso NYKK - Szedeak 76-80

No shocking result in a game when tenth ranked Szedeak (4-7) beat 12th ranked Marso NYKK (3-9) in Nyiregyhaza 80-76. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Marso NYKK won fourth quarter 17-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Szedeak forced 19 Marso NYKK turnovers. The best player for the winners was Serbian Tomislav Ivosev who scored 21 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Gabor Drahos (185-79) chipped in 19 points and 7 rebounds. The former international center Erno Sitku (208-72, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) produced 21 points and 4 steals and Serbian guard Stefan Fekete (188-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the hosts. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Szedeak moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Soproni. Marso NYKK lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with nine games lost. Szedeak's next round opponent will be higher ranked PVSK Pannon (#8) in Pecs and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Marso NYKK will play at home against Soproni (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Szedeak: T.Ivosev 21+8reb+2ast, G.Drahos 19+7reb+2ast, J.Levy 15+9reb+3ast, N.Dukic 15+4reb+2ast, M.Vida 4+1reb+2ast, M.Molnar 3
Marso NYKK: E.Sitku 21+3reb+2ast, M.Mohacsi 18+3reb+2ast, R.Laszlo 15+2reb, S.Fekete 14+7reb+5ast, D.Djogo 5+4reb+1ast, I.Miskovic 2+4reb

gschID: 146688

ZTE KK - Albacomp 59-71

A Division top team - Albacomp (10-1) managed to deliver another win on Saturday. This time they beat fourteenth ranked ZTE KK (0-11) in Zalaegerszeg 71-59. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 37-24 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. 24 personal fouls committed by ZTE KK helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 7 rebounds. The former international point guard Balazs Simon (188-80, agency: Court Side) contributed with 22 points and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. American forward Chris Hines (203, college: Alabama, agency: Court Side) answered with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 13 rebounds and the other American import swingman Tim Whitworth (198-81, college: Drexel, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 11 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for ZTE KK. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Albacomp have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 10-1 record, which they share with Kormend. Defending champion ZTE KK still closes the standings with 11 games lost. Albacomp is looking forward to face Atomeromu (#5) in Paks in the next round. ZTE KK will play on the road against FS Debrecen (#11) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Albacomp: M.El Amin 23+7reb+2ast, B.Simon 22+4reb+4ast, A.Keller 9+8reb, W.Chism 8+5reb, D.Hollis 4+4reb, R.Hendlein 3+3reb
ZTE KK: C.Hines 21+13reb+3ast, T.Whitworth 11+6reb+2ast, B.Perine 9+1reb, A.Vertetics 8+2reb+4ast, G.Kinter 4+1reb+1ast, G.Toth 2+3reb+2ast

gschID: 146689

Falco-Szova - Marso NYKK 105-67

The game between third ranked Falco-Szova (10-2) and 12th ranked Marso NYKK (3-9) in Szombathely ended with biggest points difference. Falco-Szova outscored guests from Nyiregyhaza 105-67. The game was mostly controlled by Falco-Szova. Marso NYKK was better in third quarter 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Falco-Szova forced 26 Marso NYKK turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. The best player for the winners was American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) who scored 23 points and 5 rebounds. International forward Zsolt Szabo (202-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) chipped in 16 points and 9 rebounds. Four Falco-Szova players scored in double figures. Serbian power forward Ivan Miskovic (203-84, college: Alaska-Fairb.) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds and Serbian guard Stefan Fekete (188-86, agency: Beo Basket) added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Falco-Szova maintains third place with 10-2 record having just -1 point less than leader Albacomp. Marso NYKK lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with nine games lost. Falco-Szova's next round opponent will be Kaposvari (#6) on the road. Marso NYKK will play against Soproni (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Falco-Szova: C.Timberlake 23+5reb+1ast, Z.Szabo 16+9reb+1ast, B.Jancikin 15+3reb+1ast, T.Will 12+1reb+1ast, D.Pantelic 11+7reb+2ast, L.Kalman 8+1reb+6ast
Marso NYKK: I.Miskovic 22+11reb+2ast, S.Fekete 10+6reb+5ast, M.Mohacsi 9+3reb+1ast, E.Sitku 9+2reb, R.Laszlo 7+1reb+1ast, I.Pap 6+1reb+1ast

gschID: 146682

Szolnok - Atomeromu 68-96

There was a minor upset when 4th placed Szolnok (8-3) was smashed at home by sixth ranked Atomeromu (7-4) 96-68. The game was mostly controlled by Atomeromu. Szolnok was better in fourth quarter 29-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Szolnok to just 6 points in third quarter. They outrebounded Szolnok 39-22 including a 30-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Atomeromu especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.0 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. The best player for the winners was American center Donald Cole (204-81, college: Sam Houston St., agency: Edge Sports) who scored 24 points and 8 rebounds. Power forward Ferdinand Morgen (206-90) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds. Four Atomeromu players scored in double figures. Atomeromu's coach Peter Volgyi felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. International guard Obie Trotter (186-84, college: Alabama A&M, agency: Court Side) produced 8 points, 11 assists and 5 steals and Bulgarian forward Hristo Nikolov (200-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Atomeromu moved-up to fifth place. Szolnok at the other side keeps the fourth position with three games lost. Atomeromu's next round opponent will be league's leader Albacomp in Szekesfehervar and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Szolnok will play on the road against the league's second-placed Kormend and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Atomeromu: D.Cole 24+8reb+3ast, F.Morgen 15+11reb, L.Williams 14+2reb+5ast, D.Vojvoda 10+6reb+4ast, N.Williams 10+3reb+3ast, T.Kaman 9+7reb+1ast
Szolnok: P.Grebenar 16+2reb+2ast, H.Nikolov 13+5reb+2ast, Z.Trepak 11+3reb+1ast, J.Mills 9+5reb+3ast, O.Trotter 8+2reb+11ast, B.Gay 5+2reb

gschID: 146683

Kecskemeti - Kormend 71-89

The game in Kecskemet was also quite interesting. Second ranked Kormend (10-1) played at the court of 5th ranked Kecskemeti (6-5). Kormend did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 89-71 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Kormend. Kecskemeti managed to win fourth quarter 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Kecskemeti 32-21 including 24 on the defensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for American power forward Darian Townes (208-84) who led the winners and scored 24 points and 9 rebounds. His fellow American import forward Rashad Bell (201-82, college: Boston U.) accounted for 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. Kormend's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Serbian guard Ivan Vukadinov (193-81) came up with 19 points and the former international forward Gabor Denes (197-82, agency: TSS Management) added 15 points respectively for Kecskemeti in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Kormend. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Albacomp. Kecskemeti lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the sixth place with five games lost. They share the position with Kaposvari. Kormend will meet at home Szolnok (#4) in the next round. Kecskemeti will play against Jaszberenyi and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Kormend: D.Townes 24+9reb, R.Bell 20+6reb+1ast, I.Nemeth 16+3reb+4ast, K.Powell 11+4reb+3ast, A.Rujak 7+6reb+3ast, C.Ferencz 6+2reb
Kecskemeti: I.Vukadinov 19+2reb+1ast, G.Denes 15+4reb, K.Wittmann 11+3reb+1ast, T.Kelley 10+2reb+2ast, M.Csorvasi 7+6reb, Z.Bencze 7+2reb+1ast

gschID: 146684

Falco-Szova - Jaszberenyi 92-74

Very predictable result when third ranked Falco-Szova (10-2) won against 13th ranked Jaszberenyi (2-9) in Szombathely 92-74. It looked good early as Jaszberenyi took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Falco-Szova had a 26-21 second period charge getting the lead and Jaszberenyi was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 74-92. Falco-Szova forced 19 Jaszberenyi turnovers and outrebounded them 39-25 including 26 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) who scored 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Swingman Tamas Will (196-87, agency: TSS Management) chipped in 17 points and 6 rebounds. Five Falco-Szova players scored in double figures. American guard Jibril Hodges (188-84, college: Long Beach St.) produced 25 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import forward Kyle Austin (203-88, college: Cal-Riverside) added 15 points and 4 steals respectively for the guests. Falco-Szova maintains third place with 10-2 record having just -1 point less than leader Albacomp. Jaszberenyi lost their sixth game in a row. Newly promoted team keeps the thirteenth position with nine games lost. Falco-Szova's next round opponent will be Kaposvari (#6) on the road. Jaszberenyi will play against Kecskemeti (#7).
Top scorers:
Falco-Szova: C.Timberlake 22+5reb+5ast, T.Will 17+6reb+2ast, T.Harazin 14+5reb+2ast, D.Pantelic 11+7reb+1ast, Z.Szabo 11+8reb, L.Simon 8+1reb+4ast
Jaszberenyi: J.Hodges 25+9reb+3ast, K.Austin 15+4reb+2ast, A.Helmeczi 10+1reb+1ast, B.Horti 7+1reb+2ast, G.Fulop 6+7reb, M.Medve 5+1reb+2ast

gschID: 146685

PVSK Pannon - FS Debrecen 90-83

Not a big story in a game when 10th ranked FS Debrecen (3-8) lost to eighth ranked PVSK Pannon (5-6) in Pecs 83-90. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But FS Debrecen won third quarter 25-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. PVSK Pannon shot 24 for 36 from the free-throw line, while FS Debrecen only scored eight points from the stripe. 28 personal fouls committed by FS Debrecen helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American swingman Jara Doyne (193-84, college: Mississippi) who scored 22 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Serbian guard Andrija Ciric (199-80, agency: BeoExcell) chipped in 30 points. Four PVSK Pannon players scored in double figures. Power forward Miklos Szabo (206-86, college: Hofstra) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points, 16 rebounds and 4 assists and American point guard Justin Ingram (185-85, college: Toledo) added 20 points and 7 assists respectively for the guests. FS Debrecen's coach Raul Jimenez rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. PVSK Pannon maintains eighth place with 5-6 record. FS Debrecen at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with eight games lost. PVSK Pannon's next round opponent will be Szedeak (#9) in Szeged. FS Debrecen will play at home against ZTE KK in Zalaegerszeg.
Top scorers:
PVSK Pannon: A.Ciric 30+4reb+2ast, J.Doyne 22+9reb+6ast, N.Toth 13+5reb+3ast, J.Eilingsfeld 12+6reb+1ast, N.Vasojevic 7+1reb+6ast, A.Lepsenyi 4+3reb+1ast
FS Debrecen: M.Szabo 20+16reb+4ast, J.Ingram 20+3reb+7ast, I.Kovacs 13+4reb+2ast, V.Vas 8+9reb, C.Kaluha 8+1reb, T.Papp 6+2reb

gschID: 146686

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ICELAND

Euro news - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Update on Icelandic Pro players in Europe. some good news and others that that good.
GERMANY.
MBC lost to Ehingen 89-77. Hordur Vilhjalmsson scoreless in that game but took 2 rebounds and dish out 4 assist.
SPAIN.
Real Madrid 83 Assignia Manresa 61. Haukur Palsson 1 rebounds and 2 steals in 15 minutes played.
SWEDEN.
Norrkoping 87 08 Stockholm 76. Helgi Magnusson 11 points, 8 boards & 3 assist in the loss.
08 Stockholm 75 Sodertalje 79. Helgi magnusson 14 pts, 4 rebs.
Jamtland 88 Uppsala 92. Brynjar Bjornsson 16 points & 3 rebs.
Boras 118 Solna 99. Logi Gunnarsson 15 pts. 2 boards & 3 assist for Solna.
Sundsvall 87 Norrkoping 79 Jakob Sigurdarson (192-G-82, college: Birm.Southern) 20 points, 7 rebounds & 7 assist. Pavel Ermolinskij 15 pts. 6 boards and 8 assist.
Hlynur Baeringsson 13 points, 15 boards & 2 assist

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ISRAEL

EuroCup: Hapoel J-M kept Cibona winless - by Eurobasket News
Cibona - Hapoel J-M 78:86

Hapoel J-M kept Cibona winless in EuroCup 2011/2012 season. The Israeli team celebrated 86:78 win in Croatia in the last game for both teams.
Antwain Barbour (196-G/F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Kentucky) and Jure Lalic (212-C-86) raced Cibona out to a quick 8-2 advantage before Jerusalem tied thanks to a couple layups by Dan Grunfeld (198-F/G-84, college: Stanford). Cibona trailed 18:19 at the end of the first period and 36:45 at the halftime. The fell at 14 points after 3 quarters before a 22-16 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 78:86 at the end of the game. Cibona was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Brian Randle (203-F-85) who scored 17 points. Dan Grunfeld chipped in 13 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Brian Chase (178-G-81, college: Virginia Tech) who recorded 15 points. Davor Kus (191-G-78, agency: Interperformances) added 13 points and Jure Lalic brought 12.

Cibona: Brian Chase 15, Davor Kus 13, Jure Lalic 12, Antwain Barbour 11
Hapoel J-M: Brian Randle 17, Dan Grunfeld 13, Luke Jackson (201-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Oregon) 13, Jarvis Varnado (206-F-88, college: Mississippi St.) 11


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ITALY

EuroCup: Spartak too good for Benetton in Saint Petersburg - by Eurobasket News
Spartak SP - Benetton 97:77

Spartak Saint Petersburg clinched the sixth consecutive win at EuroCup regular season. They outgunned Benetton to reach Last 16. Vladimir Dragicevic (205-C/F-86) accounted for 21 points as Spartak won Group G. Benetton finished in the second position at 3-3 record.
Spartak ensured a quick start to the game. They grabbed the lead and posted a 23:14 cushion after ten minutes. Benetton narrowed the gap by a single point at halftime 39:47. Spartak stepped on the gas in the third term. The Russian powerhouse erupted for 30 points to enter the final period up by as many as 19 points 77:58. Benetton never recovered afterwards allowing their opponents to cruise to the victory. Loukas Mavrokefalidis (208-C-84) had 14 points, while Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) had 12 points in the win. Jobey Thomas (194-G-80, college: Charlotte) answered with 22 points for Benetton. Sani Becirovic (196-G-81) posted 16 points in the loss.

Spartak SP: Vladimir Dragicevic 21, Loukas Mavrokefalidis 14, Miha Zupan 12
Benetton: Jobey Thomas 22, Sani Becirovic 16


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KUWAIT

Pan Arab Games: Egypt won Group E of the Second Stage in Doha - by Eurobasket News
Egypt-Kuwait 79:63

Egypt won Group E of the Second Stage in Doha at the Pan Arab Games. The team needed 76:63 to take the first spot and advanced to the Semifinals.
Egypt took the lead at the very beginning and reached 22-9 after the first period. Kuwait however replied with 18-10 to trail 5 points at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive as Egypt produced 32-19 to seal the victory.
Amr El Gandy stepped up with 16 points and Ibrahim ElGamal (188-G-88) netted 9. Moamen AbdouElLanin (199-F-86) and Haytham Kamal (207-C/F-87) delivered 8 points apiece. Abdulaziz Mohammad (186-G/F-87) replied with 26 points in the losing effort and Nayef AlRashidi (185-SF-89) scored 12. Rashed AlRabah (189-G/F-87) and Abdullah AlShammari (201-F-89) notched 8 points each in defeat.
Tomorrow Egypt will face Qatar in the Semifinal game. In another one Jordan will take on Tunisia.

Egypt: Amr El Gandy (202-F/C-88) 16, Ibrahim ElGamal 9, Moamen AbdouElLanin 8, Haytham Kamal 8
Kuwait: Abdulaziz Mohammad 26, Nayef AlRashidi 12, Rashed AlRabah 8, Abdullah AlShammari 8

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LATVIA

EuroCup: Khimky dominated Group B - by Eurobasket News
VEF Riga - Khimky 68:79

Khimky dominated Group B in EuroCup to win it with 6-0 record. The Russian team grabbed 79:68 win over VEF Riga as both teams advanced to the next stage,
The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. VEF Riga was better in second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Khimky forced 24 VEF Riga turnovers. VEF Riga was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86, agency: Alti Sport) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) chipped in 12 points, 8 assists and 5 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was Curtis Millage (185-G-81, college: Arizona St.) who recorded 19 points and 5 rebounds and Tyler Cain (203-F-88, college: S.Dakota) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively.

VEF Riga: Curtis Millage 19, Tyler Cain 17+6reb, Courtney Sims (211-C-83, college: Michigan) 10
Khimky: Alexey Zhukanenko 19, .Zoran Planinic 12,Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83, agency: Alti Sport) 12


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LEBANON

Coughter and Fahed together again but this time in China (CBA) - by Rabih Khoury
After they were in Lebanon for several seasons together in Blue Stars and the Lebanese NT, coach Paul Coughter and Fahed Rony (184-G-81) will be together again like the old days, but this time in China. After being from Mouttahed, coach Paul Coughter agreed on terms with TianJin Rongcheng in China CBA where Fahed Rony plays as an Asian player there. TianJin Rongcheng (2-10) will have for sure a better team with Coughter and will advance more in more in the CBA standings.

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LITHUANIA

EuroCup: Aris secure second place in Group C - by Eurobasket News
Aris - Rudupis 96:86 OT

Aris secure second place in Group C after an overtime thriller over Rudupis. The Greek side advanced to the next stage after 96:86 win and improved to 4-2 record. The Lithuanian team dropped at 3-3 to finish third.
Both teams nailed 20 points in the opening period, while the home side needed 22-16 in the second quarter to take 42:36 halftime advantage. Moreover they led 65:60 but allowed them guests to tie the score at 78:78 after four quarters. Aris reclaimed the lead on Dominic James (180-PG-86, college: Marquette)s three-point play and Sergio Kerusch (195-F, college: W.Kentucky) and Ronald Davis (190-G-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) also scored to finish up a 9-0 run. The Greek side grabbed the necessary win and advanced to the next stage.
Dominic James top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Ronald Davis netted 19. Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82) collected 18 points and 11rebounds, while Sergio Kerusch and Dimitrios Tsaldaris (196-G/F-80) netted 13 each. Arminas Urbutis (205-C/F-86, college: Hofstra) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) posted 14. Gintaras Kadziulis (193-G-80) scored 12 and Simas Buterlevicius (200-F-89) as well as Adas Juskevicius (194-G/F-89) had 10 each.

Rudupis: Arminas Urbutis 20, Dainius Salenga 14, Gintaras Kadziulis 12, Simas Buterlevicius 10, Adas Juskevicius 10
Aris: Dominic James 22, Ronald Davis 19, Christos Tapoutos 18+11rebs, Sergio Kerusch 13, Dimitrios Tsaldaris 13



EuroCup: Lietuvos Rytas earn sixth straight win - by Eurobasket News
Azovmash - Lietuvos Rytas 67:74

Lietuvos Rytas finished the EuroCup regular season undefeated. They overcame Azovmash on the road to finish on top of the ladder at 6-0 record. Azovmash suffered the fifth loss in six games played.
Lietuvos Rytas led by a single point at the first break 20:19. Azovmash bounced back in the second frame erasing the deficit. The Ukrainian team surged ahead to post a 36:33 lead at the interval. Lietuvos Rytas shifted the gear after the big break. The Lithuanian side erupted for 28 points in the third quarter to gain a 61:56 advantage with one quarter remaining. Azovmash scored just 11 points in the final stanza and had to surrender at the end. Renaldas Seibutis (196-G-85) accounted for 17 points, while Tyrese Rice (185-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) contributed 16 points and 7 assists for the winners. Artur Drozdov (199-G-80) answered with 18 points for Azovmash. Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) had 24 points in the loss.

Azovmash: Radoslav Rancik 24, Artur Drozdov 16
Lietuvos Rytas: Renaldas Seibutis 17, Tyrese Rice 16, Lawrence Roberts (205-F/C-82, college: Mississippi St.) 15


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MEXICO

Dorsey's 42-point game gives him LNBP Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
30-year old point guard Daryl Dorsey (185-PG-81) put on an amazing game in the last round for Aguilas Rojas and receives a Latinbasket.com LNBP Player of the Week award for round 38.
He had the game-high 42 points adding six rebounds and four assists for Aguilas Rojas as his team lost the game against Abejas (#10, 14-22) 105-128. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Aguilas Rojas maintains the 13th position in Mexican LNBP. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 31 games and recorded just six victories. In the team's last game Dorsey had a remarkable 77.8% from 2-point range. He turned to be Aguilas Rojas' top player in his first season with the team. University of Southern Indiana graduate has very impressive stats this year. Dorsey is league's best scorer averaging so far 29.7ppg. Dorsey is in league's top in assists (2nd best: 7.9apg) and averages solid 53.3% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74) of Lechugueros. He is Bahamas forward in his first season at Lechugueros. In the last game Moss recorded impressive double-double of 21 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Lechugueros lost that game 86-94 to the higher-ranked Soles (#4, 25-13). Lechugueros is still in a red zone at 11th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-23 record. Moss is a newcomer at Lechugueros and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward DeVaughn Lamont (208-F-84) of Corr.Victoria (#8). Lamont scored 27 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of Corr.Victoria, leading his team to a 94-88 win against slightly higher-ranked Halc.Xalapa (#7, 22-11). The chances of Corr.Victoria ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 20 games, recording just sixteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Lamont could help Corr.Victoria to bring them higher in the standings. Lamont has a very solid season. In 30 games in Mexico he scored 6.7ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jesus Lopez (205-F-83) of Toros - 25 points and 10 rebounds
5. Mitchell Johnson (196-F-85) of Panteras - 23 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Mattis McHugh (198-F-84) of Abejas - 20 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Mike Mitchell (181-PG-83) of Fuerza Regia - 15 points, 4 rebounds and 11 assists
8. Lorrenzo Wade (198-F-85) of Abejas - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists
9. Robert Brown (195-F-80) of Corr.Victoria - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Mike English (194-F/G-82) of Corr.Victoria - 21 points, 8 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)

Standings - LNBP

LNBP Standings

1. Fuerza Regia 29-6   2. Halc.Rojos 27-5   3. Toros 26-10   4. Soles 25-13   5. Pioneros 23-13   6. Huracanes 23-14   7. Halc.Xalapa 22-11   8. Corr.Victoria 16-20   9. Barreteros 16-20   10. Abejas 14-22   11. Lechugueros 11-23   12. Panteras 9-27   13. Aguilas Rojas 6-31   14. Volcanes 0-32

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MONTENEGRO

Standings - 1A

1A Standings

1. Mornar Bar 8-2   2. Sutjeska 7-3   3. Mogren 6-3   4. Lovcen 5-4   5. Ulcinj 4-4   6. Teodo Tivat 4-5   7. KK Podgorica 4-5   8. Jedinstvo 3-6   9. ABS Primorje 2-7   10. Danilovgrad 2-7  Play in international cups:  1. Buducnost -

EuroCup: ALBA upset Buducnost in Montenegro - by Eurobasket News
Buducnost - ALBA 57:72

ALBA Berlin registered the fifth win in EuroCup regular season. They toppled Buducnost on the road to take 5-1 record on top of Group H. Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo) came up with 21 points and 7 rebounds for ALBA. Buducnost fell at 3-3 record but still made it into the Last 16 round.
ALBA enjoyed almost a perfect start. They built a 20:10 lead after ten minutes of action. Buducnost came back to life in the second period. The hosts trimmed the deficit to 6 points 28:34 at halftime. But ALBA once again increased the tempo in the third term and established a 13-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. Buducnost had no answers in the final part of the encounter and surrendered at the end. Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) posted 14 points, while Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) nailed 10 points in the win. Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) answered with 12 points for Buducnost. Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 points in the loss.

Buducnost: Aleksa Popovic 12, Cedomir Vitkovac 11
ALBA: Yassin Idbihi 21, Marko Simonovic 14, Heiko Schaffartzik 10


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MOROCCO

26th ACCM: CR AL-Hoceima bundle out by AS Sale 51-88 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Chabab Rif AL-Hoceima basketball club of Morocco today (Monday) lost to fellow Moroccan Association Sportive du Sale basketball club in the third quarter-final of the final round of the 26th Africa Champions Cup for Men by 51-88 points.

CR AL-Hoceima failed to live up to expectation as it lost all four quarters by 18-23, 09-21, 11-13 and 13-31 thereby dashing the hope of it fans of seeing it contend for the title as it has to settle for position 5-8.

CR AL-Hoceima poor run in the game showed in all department of the game with a total of 26 rebound to AS Sale 39, 9-26 assist; 13-14 turn-over; 4-6 steal and 0-3 block-shot.

CR AL-Hoceima also failed in field-goal attempt and free-throw as it could only made 18 of 38 two-point field-goal to AS Sale 28 from 45 attempt, both side had a poor showing in three-point attempt with CR AL-Hoceima being the worst culprit making 4 of 23 attempt and 3 of 10 free-throw with AS Sale making 7 of 25 three-point attempt but showed lots of improvement in free-throw with 11 of 18 attempt made.

AS Sale forward Abdelhakim Zouta led the floor with a double double effort of 20 points 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steal, Cameroon import Christian Bayang had 19 points and 6 rebounds while the duo of Zakaria Masbahi and Youness Iddrissi added 16 points each to ensure their side goes through to the last-four.


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NAIA

Northwood back on top in NAIA Division II men's basketball coaches' Top 25 poll - by Eurobasket News
It took Northwood (Fla.) two regular-season polls to jump back into the No. 1 ranking. The Seahawks, who corralled 372 total points and 11 first-place votes, replace former No. 1 Indiana Wesleyan in the third edition of the 2011 12 NAIA Division II Mens Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll, announced Monday by the national office. Northwood held the top spot in the Preseason Top 25, announced on Oct. 24.

Despite already suffering one loss, Northwood has been ranked No. 1 in four of the last seven polls dating back to last season. The one setback was a one-point loss at NCAA Division II Northwood (Mich.) on Nov. 14.

Improving two positions, No. 2 Dordt (Iowa) captured 359 total points and two first-place nods. Since Division II was created prior to the 1991 92 season, this is the highest ranking for the Defenders. Sitting at 13-0, Dordt hosts 22nd-ranked Morningside (Iowa) on Tuesday.

No. 3 Oregon Tech improves two positions with 344 points. No. 4 Davenport (Mich.) dropped one spot and fifth-ranked McPherson (Kan.) moved up two slots. The Bulldogs garnered the remaining first-place nod with a 14-1 record.

No. 11 Cardinal Stritch (Wis.) was rewarded for a Dec. 9 victory over then-No. 3 Davenport with a seven-spot jump. The Wolves currently stand at 9-2 and are riding a seven-game win streak. Falling the farthest within the poll was No. 14 Northwestern (Iowa) as the Red Raiders have lost three of their last five games.

Indiana Tech is the lone newcomer and pushes out St. Mary (Kan.). The Warriors, who were seventh in the Nov. 28 edition, land in the 25th spot.

With four ranked teams apiece, the Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) and Mid-Central College Conference (MCC) lead all conferences and independents with the highest amount. Oregon Tech, No. 10 Northwest (Wash.), No. 17 Warner Pacific (Ore.) and No. 23 Eastern Oregon all hail from the CCC. Representing the MCC are: No. 6 Indiana Wesleyan, No. 7 Grace (Ind.), No. 12 Goshen (Ind.) and No. 19 Taylor (Ind.). Overall, 11 conferences/independents/unaffiliated groups are represented in the Top 25.

The poll was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each of the conferences and independents. The fourth regular-season Division II Mens Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll will be announced on Jan. 9, 2012.

NOTES: (All information dates back to 1999 2000) There have been 38 different teams to be ranked at least once this season No. 2 Dordt (Iowa) and No. 10 Northwest (Wash.) are the only undefeated programs remaining No. 3 Oregon Tech has spent 12-straight polls ranked in the top five With two road losses last week by Indiana Wesleyan, the former No. 1-ranked team fell to sixth Embry-Riddle (Fla.) owns the most No. 1 rankings since 2000 with 17; No. 3 Oregon Tech, Oklahoma Wesleyan and former NAIA member Walsh (Ohio) have posted 12 mentions at No. 1 Oregon Tech is listed with the longest active streak in the Top 25 at 79-straight weeks -- the last time the Hustlin Owls were not ranked was on Jan. 11, 2005 In second place is No. 1 Northwood (Fla.) with 44-consecutive mentions.


RANK LAST WEEK SCHOOL (1ST PLACE VOTES) 2011-12 RECORD TOTAL POINTS
1 2 Northwood (Fla.) (11) 6-1 372
2 4 Dordt (Iowa) (2) 13-0 359
3 5 Oregon Tech 12-1 344
4 3 Davenport (Mich.) 13-1 338
5 7 McPherson (Kan.) (1) 14-1 321
6 1 Indiana Wesleyan 9-2 320
7 6 Grace (Ind.) 10-1 305
8 10 Indiana East 11-1 293
9 9 Bellevue (Neb.) 7-3 271
10 11 Northwest (Wash.) 11-0 268
11 18 Cardinal Stritch (Wis.) 9-2 254
12 12 Goshen (Ind.) 10-1 245
13 14 Jamestown (N.D.) 10-3 222
14 8 Northwestern (Iowa) 9-3 209
15 16 Southeastern (Fla.) 9-4 202
16 22 Mount Mercy (Iowa) 10-2 196
17 13 Warner Pacific (Ore.) 8-3 187
18 17 Warner (Fla.) 6-2 172
19 21 Taylor (Ind.) 10-2 156
20 15 Grand View (Iowa) 7-3 145
21 23 Madonna (Mich.) 8-4 134
22 19 Morningside (Iowa) 7-4 109
23 24 Eastern Oregon 8-3 105
24 20 Indiana Southeast 9-5 101
25 RV Indiana Tech 10-2 87

Others receiving votes: Southwestern (Kan.) 52; Spring Arbor (Mich.) 41; Valley City State (N.D.) 26; Briar Cliff (Iowa) 25; Iowa Wesleyan 21; Southern Oregon 20; Embry-Riddle (Fla.) 10; Clarke (Iowa) 7; Daemen (N.Y.) 7; Cornerstone (Mich.) 6; Central Christian (Kan.) 5; Midland (Neb.) 5; Point Park (Pa.) 3; Saint Mary (Kan.) 3; St. Thomas (Fla.) 1; Tennessee Wesleyan 1; Alice Lloyd (Ky.) 1; Dakota State (S.D.) 1; Holy Names (Calif.) 1; Milligan (Tenn.) 1; Brescia (Ky.) 1; Saint Francis (Ind.) 1

Courtesy of http://naia.cstv.com



D2: No. 12 Goshen extends winning streak with victory over No. 8 Indiana East - by Eurobasket News
Goshen (Ind.) snapped No. 8 Indiana East's 11-game winning streak on Tuesday, coming from behind for a 76-74 victory.

In the process, the 12th-ranked Maple Leafs (11-1) extended their own winning streak to 11 games. They will look to continue the hot start to the season as they travel to the Madonna University Crusader Classic in Michigan Friday and Saturday.

It feels great to get this win, head coach Gary Chupp said. They are a really good team with so many weapons and they are going to win a lot of games this year.

In handing the Red Wolves their first defeat in nearly a month-and-a-half, the Maple Leafs needed a late rally. After a 5-0 run gave the visitors a 72-68 lead with under three to go, Goshen closed the game on a 8-2 spurt to complete a comeback after seeing themselves down by as many as 11 in the second half.

I was really pleased with how we closed out the game on defense, Chupp said. We played through a lot of adversity, buckled down, and played with a lot of composure.

Despite committing nine turnovers and shooting 4-of-14 from beyond the arc in the first half, the Leafs only trailed by three (37-34) at the break. The Red Wolves hit 6-of-11 (.545) 3-pointers in the half, including one by Matt Trimnell with just seconds on the clock as they led by as many as eight early on.

A quick 9-0 spurt by Indiana East five minutes into the second half increased its lead to double digits (55-45) when Marcus Isaac hit two of his five 3-pointers (game-high 27 points).

All night, though, Goshen had an answer. Just past the midway point of the final period, the Leafs exploded for a 10-0 spurt behind 3s from Geoffry Gilot and Garner Small to cut the deficit to one (63-62). Then came what could have been the turning point as Goshen was whistled for an intentional foul and IU East made them pay, stretching their lead back to five in the matter of 20 seconds.

Again, the Leafs had an answer. This time it was junior Casey Pratt who struck from 3-point territory before classmates Mike Betcher and Matthew Martin combined on a pair of interior passes and baskets leaving Goshen up 74-72 with less than a minute to go. The Maple Leafs hit just 7-of-14 from the line overall, but made enough when it counted to hold on for the thrilling victory.

The guys got the ball into the post late, which is something we really emphasized and it paid off, Chupp said. Casey was really good tonight running the offense and hitting a couple big threes. Geoffry was aggressive offensively and Garner hit some big shots for us off the bench.

Betcher hit a perfect 7-of-7 from the field for a team-high 17 points. He also grabbed a game-high 10 rebounds and had four blocks, racking up his fourth double-double of the season. Small hit four 3-pointers for 16 points, while Gilot had 14, Martin 12 in his 2011-12 debut, and Pratt had six points to go with eight assists.

Isaac led four Red Wolves (11-2) with 27 points, while Trimnell added 16 and David Sanders had 13 and eight assists.

Courtesy of http://naia.cstv.com

D1: No. 2 Robert Morris hands top-ranked Concordia first loss of season - by Eurobasket News
The No. 2-ranked Robert Morris (Ill.) men's basketball team knocked off top ranked Concordia (Calif.), 99-92, in overtime on Saturday (Dec. 17) in a battle of the NAIAs two top teams. The Eagles are now a perfect 11-0 on the season.

The first half belonged to the Eagles as they jumped out to a 9-1 lead on six points from junior guard Brian Bradley and a 3-pointer from senior Tremell Adam. Concordia would momentarily cut the Eagles first half lead down to three before the Eagles opened up a lead as large as seventeen points and then closed the half up 42-28.

The Eagles started the second half the same way they started the game and stretched their lead over #1 ranked Concordia to 57-36 as senior All-American guard Diante Watkins, senior Kenny Ogbuokiri, junior Tori Boyd and Bradley all scored points. However, Concordia would not go away as it made a run to cut the lead down to nine points with just over eleven minutes left. But, Boyd and Watkins stretched the Eagles lead back to fifteen.

Once again Concordia showed why they are the top ranked team and a perennial national title contender as they climbed back into the game and trailed by two points with 1:13 left in the game. Boyd was then fouled and hit his first free throw but missed the second for an 81-78 Eagles lead. Concordia drew a foul with twenty-five seconds remaining and made the first shot but missed the second. However, they grabbed the rebound and scored on the put back to stun the crowd and tie the game at, 81-81, with twenty-three seconds left. Watkins had a chance for some last second heroics but his 3-pointer hit off the rim and Boyds put back fell short to force overtime.

Overtime turned into the Brian Bradley show as he scored the first ten points to give the Eagles a 91-81 lead. From there, the Eagles opened up a thirteen point lead and held on for a 99-92 thrilling victory.

Bradley and Watkins led all scorers with 31 points each while Boyd chipped in with 16 and Aubrey McAlpine grabbed 12 rebounds.

This was an exciting game with two really good teams going at it and we were fortunate to be the ones that came out on top, stated Robert Morris head coach Al Bruehl. We controlled the first half but Concordia never gave up and showed how tough they are by coming back and forcing overtime. This game had all that is expected from two top teams.

The Eagles travel to Westville, Ind., on Thursday to take on Purdue University North Central. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 P.M. and fans can listen to the game live on the Eagles Sports Network.

Courtesy of http://naia.cstv.com

D1 Top 25 ranking

Top 25 Ranking

1. Concordia Irvine  2. Robert Morris  3. Oklah.Baptist  4. Shorter  5. Rogers St.  6. Georgetown, KY  7. Texas Wesleyan  8. Martin Methodist  9. Azusa Pacific  10. Westminster  11. Mountain St.  12. Cumberlands  13. So.Poly State  14. Evangel  15. Biola, CA  16. S.Nazarene  17. Freed-Hardeman  18. Lindsey Wilson  19. Montana St.-Northern  20. John Brown  21. Xavier, LA  22. St.Xavier  23. Oklah.Christian  24. Fresno Pacific  25. Campbellsville

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NBA

Nick Young signs one-year deal with Wizards - by Eurobasket News
Update: The Wizards announced on Monday morning that Nick Young (6'6''-G/F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: USC) has re-signed with the team. He attended Mondays practice at Verizon Center. Check Wizards Insider soon for more details.

Original post: Restricted free agent shooting guard Nick Young is in the process of catching a red-eye flight from Los Angeles to Washington and is expected to sign his one-year, $3.7 million qualifying offer with the Wizards on Monday, according to people with knowledge of the situation.

Young is coming off a career year with the Wizards, finishing as the teams leading scorer at 17.4 point per game. But he found a rushed free agent market that was unfavorable to players at his position - and restricted free agents in general. Most teams around the league anticipated that the Wizards would match any offer for Young and few had the resources or willingness to give him a lucrative offer sheet.

The Wizards had hoped to sign Young to a long-term deal but were in different neighborhoods during negotiations. Three high-ranking NBA executives said Young was seeking a contract starting around $9 million per season, while the Wizards were willing to give him something closer to the mid-level exception of $5 million, according to people with knowledge of the negotiations.

Among other available shooting guards, Rodney Stuckey agreed to sign a three-year deal with Detroit worth $25 million; Marcus Thornton signed with Sacramento for four years and $33 million; and Jason Richardson agreed to a four-year deal worth $25 million to stay in Orlando. But veterans Jamal Crawford and Richard Hamilton both agreed to short-term deals that will pay them $5 million this season. Denver restricted free agent guard Arron Afflalo remains unsigned.

By signing his qualifying offer, Young will become an unrestricted free agent next season, when the market is expected to be better. Several teams are expected to have considerable salary cap room and few young guards will be available.

Young missed all of training camp and the Wizards first preseason game, a 103-78 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, and didnt want to miss more time.

The Wizards will play the 76ers in their next and final preseason game on Tuesday. Young isnt expected to be available for that game, but he has been working out on his own in Los Angeles, according to sources.

The Wizards will open the season on Dec. 26 at home against the New Jersey Nets.

Young becomes the 12th player and third this year to sign his qualifying tender since rookie scale contracts were established in 1995. Spencer Hawes signed his one-year, $4.1 qualifying offer from Philadelphia and Marco Belinelli signed a one-year, $3.4 million qualifying offer from the New Orleans Hornets.

Ben Gordon, Raymond Felton, Michael Olowokandi, Stromile Swift, Robert Swift, Mickael Pietrus, Melvin Ely, Vladimir Radmanovic and Rasho Nesterovic are the other players who decided to sign qualifying offers to become unrestricted free agents a year later.

None of those players wound up re-signing with their teams, but the Wizards remain optimistic about keeping Young since the team can pay him more money. The Wizards could offer Young five years with 7.5 percent annual raises, while other teams can only give him a four-year deal with 4.5 percent raises.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Bobcats edge Hawks 79-77 - by Eurobasket News
Kemba Walker (6'1''-PG-90, college: Connecticut) opened his NBA career with a solid performance, shaking off a slow start to score a game-high 18 points -- including the go-ahead layup -- to lift the Bobcats to a 79-77 win over the Hawks in the preseason opener for both teams.

After missing eight of his first 10 shots, including a dunk on a fastbreak, Walker made a 17-footer and a driving layup over two defenders in the closing 90 seconds. He used his quickness to draw fouls in the lane and shot 9 for 11 from the line.

Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) and Alfred Horford (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Florida) each scored 11 points to lead the Hawks.

The Bobcats got a strong effort from Boris Diaw (6'8''-PF-82), making his first start at center since the departure of Kwame Brown. Playing well away from the basket, Diaw shot 5 for 8 from the field and finished with 12 points

Courtesy of www.kolotv.com

Utah Jazz stumble against Blazers, fall 110-90 in preseason opener - by Eurobasket News
It's just the preseason. Exhibition games don't count. The slate will be wiped clean by the time the real stuff starts next week.

But still.

Despite its overall insignificance to the standings, this is not the kind of start the Jazz envisioned or wanted.

In the first of its two preseason contests, Utah trailed the Portland Trail Blazers 54-42 at halftime.

Second-year power forward Derrick Favors (6'10''-F-91, college: Georgia Tech) leads the Jazz with a strong 11-point, eight-rebound performance off the bench. Utah has also received six points apiece from rookie Enes Kanter (6'10''-C-92, college: Kentucky) (five boards) and Jeremy Evans.

Other than that, well, just be thankful it's the preseason.

Paul Millsap (right quad tendinitis) is unavailable, so coach Tyrone Corbin went with an interesting starting lineup that included a frontcourt of Mehmet Okur and Al Jefferson along with C.J. Miles, Raja Bell and Devin Harris.

That group struggled, falling behind 18-6 before Corbin turned to the bench. The five starters combined only scored 11 points.

Led by ex-Jazzman Wesley Matthews' (6'5''-G-86, college: Marquette) 13 points, the Blazers raced out to a huge lead that blossomed to 20 before a late Utah run trimmed it to 12.

Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

Knicks officially sign free agent G Baron Davis - by Eurobasket News
The New York Knicks signed free- agent point guard Baron Davis (6'3''-PG-79, college: UCLA), the National Basketball Association team said in a statement.

The Knicks have been seeking depth at the point guard position since releasing Chauncey Billups on Dec. 10. New York signed Mike Bibby to a one-year contract last week at the veterans minimum of $1.4 million to join Toney Douglas at the position.

The 32-year-old Davis, a two-time All-Star, averaged 13.1 points and 6.7 assists last season while playing in 58 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers. He may miss eight to 10 weeks with a herniated disc in his back, the New York Post reported last week.

Courtesy of www.bloomberg.com

Kings void Chuck Hayes' contract after he fails physical exam - by Eurobasket News
The Sacramento Kings voided Chuck Hayes (6'6''-F-83, college: Kentucky) $21.3 million, four-year contract Monday, saying the forward-center failed a team physical that forced his release.

Kings general manager Geoff Petrie said in a statement Monday that informing Hayes, a former University of Kentucky star, that his deal had been voided was one of the most heartbreaking moments of my professional or personal life. He said Hayes asked the team to refrain from any further comment.

The team announced last week that a heart exam on the new Kings big man showed an abnormality that would require further testing. That

came days after the former Houston Rockets forward-center signed a contract with Sacramento.

Hayes, now 28, averaged 3.4 points and 4.7 rebounds in 17 minutes per game in six seasons with the Rockets. He attended Sacramentos media day Thursday and appeared fine, joking around with several teammates, but was held out of the teams preseason opener at Golden State on Saturday night.

Hayes situation is the second time in the last week that a medical exam on an NBA player revealed cause for concern.

Boston Celtics forward Jeff Green will have surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm and will miss the entire season. Green was scheduled for an operation on Monday at the Cleveland Clinic. Doctors told him the operation should completely repair Greens condition and that he can expect to resume his NBA career next season, the Celtics said in a news release Saturday.

The Kings only announced last week that a stress echocardiogram test on Hayes revealed an abnormality.

Courtesy of www.courier-journal.com

Peja Stojakovic says he is retiring - by Eurobasket News
Predrag Stojakovic (6'10''-F-77) is going out on top.

One of the greatest shooters in NBA history, Stojakovic, 34, announced he will retire after 13 seasons in the NBA which finished with him winning his first ever championship with the Mavericks last season.

'When you start competing against your body more than you're preparing for the actual game,' Stojakovic said, 'it's a wakeup call.'

Stojakovic said he was battling through neck and back issues and because of the physical demand of an NBA season, he just saw it as time to hang it up.

'I feel so blessed to have been given the athletic gifts to play professional basketball,' Stojakovic said in a release. 'I have always loved the game, and have great respect for it, and I know the time is right to step away. I promised myself a long time ago, if it came to the point where my heart and body were not 100% committed, I would step away. I have reached that point and I know the time is right to retire.

Stojakovic, a three-time All-Star, played for the Kings, Pacers, Hornets and Mavericks. He averaged 17 points per game for his career, 40 percent from 3-point range and fourth all-time with 1,760 3-pointers made.

So with Stojakovic being one of the greatest shooters ever, it has to be asked: Is he Hall of Fame material?

He will be, at least in terms of the international Hall of Fame committee. He was a star in Greece for a number of years and was a major part of the Serbian national team winning the 2001 Eurobasket tournament and the 2002 World Championship. As for NBA Hall of Famer, probably not.

Though Peja did have some incredible years in Sacramento. Look at his run from 2000-2005. He averaged better than 20 ppg on 48 percent shooting and 40 percent shooting from 3. His 2003-04 season was outstanding: 24.2 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 48 percent from the field and 43.3 percent from 3. That's incredible.

After he finished in Sacramento, he had difficulty staying healthy, missing about 30 games on average every season after that.

He's an all-time great shooter and after multiple years of being so close in Sacramento, Stojakovic got his title in Dallas last season. Always a good way to go out.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

San Antonio Spurs waive Steve Novak and Antonio McDyess - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs today announced that forward Steve Novak (6'10''-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Marquette) has been placed on waivers. He originally signed with the Spurs on March 4, 2011. In 23 games in San Antonio, during the 2010-11 season, he averaged 4.0 points in 8.6 minutes. Novak re-signed with the Spurs on December 15, 2011.

At the same time the team announced that, due to the structure of his contract, Antonio McDyess (6'9''-F-74, college: Alabama) has also been placed on waivers. McDyess signed with the Spurs on July 10, 2009. He spent the last two NBA seasons in San Antonio and, in April, McDyess announced his plans to retire at the end of the 2010-11 campaign.

Antonio McDyess is the ultimate pro, said Spurs General Manager RC Buford. It was truly a pleasure to have him in San Antonio the last two seasons. Antonio and his wife, Liara, are an important part of the Spurs family and will always be welcome.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Pacers deal Brandon Rush to Warriors for Lou Amundson - by Eurobasket News
The Indiana Pacers have agreed to send shooting guard Brandon Rush (6'6''-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Kansas) to Golden State in exchange for forward Louis Amundson (6'9''-F/C-82, college: UNLV), sources confirmed to SI.com.

The trade, which is expected to be finalized on Monday and was first reported by the Bay Area News Group, would give the Warriors some badly needed veteran depth behind guards Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry, while giving the Pacers the kind of hard-working forward they were looking for. The Pacers recently signed two-time All-Star David West as well as second-year bruiser Jeff Pendergraph to play with incumbent forward Tyler Hansbrough. But Pendergraph -- who was drafted 31st overall by Sacramento in 2009 but missed all of last season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee -- recently sprained the same knee and is still on the mend.

Amundson -- who will be playing for his sixth team in six seasons -- played just 46 games last season due to injury, averaging 4.4 points and four rebounds in 15 minutes. He was expected to play a significant role in the rotation of first-year Warriors coach Mark Jackson, but will now use his defensive-minded ways for second-year Pacers coach Frank Vogel. Rush is a capable defender who should be able to add some offense for the Warriors as well, as the fourth-year player who was taken 13th overall by Portland in 2008 out of Kansas averaged 9.1 points and 26.1 minutes in 67 games last season while shooting just 42.1 percent.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Bobcats acquire C Mullens from Thunder - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte Bobcats President of Basketball Operations Rod Higgins announced today that the team has acquired center Byron Mullens (7'0''-C-89, college: Ohio St.) from the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for a 2013 second-round draft pick.

The 7-0 Mullens was originally selected by Dallas with the 24th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft before having his rights traded to Oklahoma City, where he has appeared in 26 career NBA games in two seasons.

He has also played in 41 games for the Thunders D-League affiliate, the Tulsa 66ers, over the last two seasons, averaging 15.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.1 blocks.

Mullens played just one season at Ohio State, with averages of 8.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in 20.3 minutes as a freshman.

He led the Big Ten in field goal percentage (.703) and posted 12 double-doubles in his final 17 games.

Courtesy of www.wcnc.com

Sources: Denver Nuggets re-sign Arron Afflalo on five-year deal - by Eurobasket News
The Denver Nuggets are close to finalizing a deal to re-sign restricted free agent Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA), according to sources close to the process.

Sources told ESPN.com that the sides have reached terms on a deal that, with bonuses, would pay out in excess of $43 million over five years to Afflalo, who was coveted by numerous top teams that generally presumed that the Nuggets would match any offer sheet to the 26-year-old.

The deal with Afflalo ensures that the Nuggets have retained their top two free agents. Last week, Denver and center Nene Hilario -- widely regarded as the top available free agent -- reached terms on a five-year, $67 million deal.

The Nuggets also acquired swingmen Rudy Fernandez and Corey Brewer in a trade with Dallas last week as they continue to re-shape their roster in the wake of last February's deal sending Carmelo Anthony to New York.

ESPN.com reported earlier this month that the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers were among the playoff teams trying unsuccessfully to engage the Nuggets in sign-and-trade discussions.

Rival bidders have long been pessimistic about their chances of stealing Afflalo away from the Nuggets. After restricted free agent Wilson Chandler and unrestricted free agents Kenyon Martin and J.R. Smith all bolted to China, Afflalo's future was the rare roster issue in Denver that the home team has control of.

Afflalo, Danilo Gallinari and Ty Lawson are generally regarded as the most valued players, along with Nene, in the Nuggets' post-Anthony world.

Courtesy of ESPN

Clippers open preseason with 114-95 win vs. Lakers - by Eurobasket News
Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) had 17 points, nine assists and seven rebounds in his Los Angeles Clippers debut and Chauncey Billups made an equally impressive first impression with his new club, scoring 23 points in a 114-95 victory over the Lakers on Monday night.

The first of two preseason games between the teams followed a dizzying two-week media frenzy in both camps, during which time the Clippers acquired Paul from New Orleans right after the league squashed a proposed three-way deal that would have sent him to the Lakers.

Paul's arrival came immediately after the Clippers' acquisitions of former Laker Caron Butler as a free agent, and Billups from the New York Knicks in a waiver auction. Lamar Odom, whom the Lakers tried to peddle to New Orleans in the squashed deal, angrily demanded to be traded and was sent to the defending champion Dallas Mavericks who swept the Lakers out of the playoffs last spring. And to top it all off, Kobe Bryant's (6'6''-G-78) wife Vanessa filed for divorce on Friday.

Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) had 12 points for the Clippers in a foul-plagued 25 minutes. Last season's rookie of the year picked up his third foul with 5:44 left in the second quarter, then received a technical foul about 2 minutes later for hanging on the rim too long after converting Billups' pass to him off the glass into a fast-break slam dunk.

Bryant had 22 points in about 30 minutes, Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) scored 16 and Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) added 15 points and 12 rebounds.

Rookie point guard Darius Morris, a second-round draft pick out of Michigan and the first player off the Lakers' bench, beat the first-quarter buzzer with a 20-footer that tied the score at 28. He pulled them even again at 35 with a 3-pointer and finished with 11 points in about 24 minutes.

Bryant was sent crashing to the floor by Clippers center DeAndre Jordan on a blocked layup with 7:23 left in the third quarter and came up holding his right wrist the one he shoots with. He stayed in the game for another 3 minutes, then went to the bench for a good stretch after the Clippers extended an eight-point lead to 80-62 on Billups' 3-pointer with 4:08 left in the period.

Paul and Billups sat out the fourth quarter. Mo Williams, beginning his first full season with the Clippers after joining them in last season at the trading deadline for Baron Davis, had nine points in 22 minutes on his 29th birthday.

Billups had 12 points as the Clippers led 55-50 at halftime.

Steve Blake started at point guard for new Lakers coach Mike Brown in place of Derek Fisher, who continued his conditioning program following weeks of inactivity while representing the players' association during the 149-day lockout.

Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

Bismack Biyombo pays off Spanish club Fuenlabrada, signs with Charlotte Bobcats - by Eurobasket News
Forward Bismack Biyombo (6'10''-C-92) signed a rookie contract with the Charlotte Bobcats hours after agreeing to pay a buyout clause to release him from his contract with Spanish club Fuenlabrada.

Coach Paul Silas said Biyombo would begin to practice Tuesday and would play in Thursday night's game at Atlanta.

Fuenlabrada said Monday that Biyombo had agreed to pay the $1.5 million clause that will free him from the remaining two years of his contract. The Bobcats agreed to pay $525,000 of that - the most allowed by international rules - according to Rod Higgins, the Bobcats' director of basketball operations.

Bobcats owner Michael Jordan had agreed to pay that before the team drafted Biyombo.

Knicks sign veteran guard Davis: Baron Davis' desire to play in New York outweighed the chance to play with Kobe Bryant or LeBron James.

The veteran point guard signed with the Knicks on Monday, passing up a chance to join stronger teams because he said he always saw himself playing at Madison Square Garden.

'I always kind of rise to the occasion when I'm playing against the Knicks and playing in the Garden,' Davis said. 'It's just an unbelievable opportunity, and I'm ready to accept the challenge.'

Not yet, however. A herniated disc in his back has sidelined Davis all preseason, an injury he's heard could keep him out eight to 10 weeks. But Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni said the team is willing to wait for the chance to add a veteran to an inexperienced starting backcourt.

'The first order of business is just get him healthy and make sure that when he is able to play, he's ready to go,' D'Antoni said. 'If we get to that point, which hopefully we will, we've got one of the better point guards in the league, just adds another weapon to already a pretty good group.'

Nuggets agree to 5-year deal with Afflalo: The Denver Nuggets have agreed to a five-year deal with restricted free agent Arron Afflalo.

The Denver Post first reported Monday night the guard had agreed to a contract that could be worth up to $43 million.

Nuggets coach George Karl was preaching the importance of bringing back Afflalo, the player he considered the 'glue guy' of the team.

Pacers send Rush to Golden State for Amundson: The Golden State Warriors have completed a trade sending forward Lou Amundson to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for guard Brandon Rush.

The teams announced the trade Monday.

Kings void Hayes' contract after failed physical: The Sacramento Kings have voided Chuck Hayes' $21.3 million, four-year contract after they say he failed a physical.

The team announced last week that a heart exam on the new Kings big man showed an abnormality that would require further testing. That came days after the former Houston Rockets forward-center signed a contract with Sacramento.

Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

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

NBLCANADA

NBLC Standings

NBL Canada Standings

1. London L. 11-3   2. Quebec K. 11-5   3. Halifax R. 8-4   4. St.John M.R. 8-7   5. Oshawa P. 6-11   6. Summerside S. 5-9   7. Moncton M. 2-12

Miracles produce first home court win - by Eurobasket News
Darrell Wonge (6'7''-F-86, college: Winston Salem) was the man of the hour.

The small forward delivered a sparkling performance and came through in clutch situations to lead the Moncton Miracles to their first home win with a thrilling 103-95 decision over the Oshawa Power in National Basketball League of Canada action last night at the Moncton Coliseum.

The crowd of 1,342 was engaged from start to finish, creating a noisy atmosphere in the building. Wonge provided plenty of reason to cheer as he established a Miracles record for most points in a game with 31 and that included draining eight three-point shots.

'We had a great crowd tonight, the fans were really into the game and it feels great that we were able to give them a win,' said Wonge. 'It's an early Christmas gift to all the Miracles fans.

'The people in this city have shown so much loyalty towards us. They could've jumped off the bandwagon when we got off to an 0-11 start, but they stuck with us and kept coming to the games to support us. We have amazing fans and they've helped us keep our heads up through everything.'

Wonge was named yesterday as the NBL Canada Player of the Week, the first Moncton player to receive this honour. He averaged 20 points in three games and poured in 30 points in the club's 111-102 road win over the Summerside Storm last Friday.

He followed that up with another great display last night in the Moncton's final game before Christmas. Tied 88-88 with 5:15 remaining, he nailed two straight three-point shots to put the Miracles ahead 94-88 and it was a lead they never relinquished.

The Miracles broke the 88-88 tie by going on a 15-7 run down the stretch and improved to 1-4 at home. They're last in the league at 2-12, but have two wins in the past three games.

'We kept our turnovers down so that was a big factor,' said Wonge. 'We hit the glass hard (with a good job of rebounding) and we keyed in on their main scorers. We had guys on our team that sacrificed their bodies and played great defensively.

'We showed in this game that we're a balanced team and it doesn't matter who's the high scorer. There's a lot of guys who contributed and did things that may not show up on the game sheet. I'm happy about being named NBL Canada Player of the Week, but I'm much more happy about the fact we won two of our last three games.'

Moncton will return to action on the road against Oshawa on Dec. 29. The Miracles will play their next home game against the Saint John Mill Rats on Jan. 3 at 7 p.m. at the Moncton Coliseum.

Moncton suffered a 107-80 loss against Oshawa in the second game of the season, its most lopsided loss. The Miracles bounced back to even the season series between these clubs at one win each.

'We're working hard and getting better every day,' said Miracles point guard Jazzmar Ferguson. 'We really wanted to give our fans an early Christmas gift with a home win tonight. Merry Christmas to all our fans. Hopefully, there's lots more wins to come.

'That was our loudest and most energetic home crowd yet. They were into it right from the start and it was a great atmosphere. It's an adrenalin rush when you have the crowd behind you like that. The fans are our sixth man and we feed off them.'

Moncton had six players reach double digits in scoring. Wonge was joined in this group by Trayvon Lathan (6'7''-G-84, college: Chowan) with 17 points, Ferguson with 14, George Fudge with 11 and Boubacar Coly and Sylvania Watkins both with 10. Coly led the club with 11 rebounds.

Omari Johnson (6'9''-F, college: Oregon St.) had 19 points to lead Oshawa, which is fifth in the seven-team league at 6-11. Marcus Johnson (6'3''-G-87, college: Dayton) and Brandon Robinson both had 18 points.

Moncton was 35-for-79 (.443) in field goals and 10-for-25 (.400) in three-point shots.

Oshawa was 31-for-72 (.430) in field goals and 7-for-18 (.388) in three-point shots. It struggled at 26-for-39 (.666) in free throws.

The game had a terrific tempo from the get-go with entertaining back-and-forth action. The lead changed hands several times in the first quarter with the biggest gap on the scoreboard being six points.

Ferguson and Wonge both scored nine points to spark the Miracles to a 31-29 lead after the first quarter. The crowd was engaged early with loud cheering and breaking into chants of 'Let's Go Miracles'' and 'Defence! Defence!'' when the visitors had the ball.

Moncton held a 45-39 lead five minutes into the second quarter, the biggest lead for either club in that frame. Oshawa rallied and went on a 16-8 run over the final seven minutes to take a 55-53 lead into halftime.

Wonge and Ferguson combined for 26 points in the first half. The Miracles drained seven three-point shots in the first half and Wonge had five of them.

Moncton was ahead for most of the third quarter, its biggest lead being 67-59 with seven minutes remaining. Oshawa struck back with a 22-12 run down the stretch and held an 81-79 lead after the third quarter.

Moncton won the first quarter by two points, lost the second quarter by four points and it was even on the scoreboard in the third quarter. The Miracles outscored their opponent 24-14 in the fourth quarter.

Tied 88-88 with 5:15 remaining, the crowd broke into a loud chant of 'Defence! Defence!'' The Miracles were much sharper under pressure down the stretch and made sure to send fans home in a festive mood.

'Rebounding and free throws hurt us in this game,' said Oshawa head coach Mark Strickland. 'Wonge is a good shooter, that's his job, and he also had a big impact. He got a lot of baskets at key times.

'Moncton played hard tonight. They played like they wanted to win and we didn't. They showed lots of energy and will to win. We can't be thinking that we're playing the last-place so we can just turn it on when we want. Basketball doesn't work that way. You've got to play hard for 48 minutes and if you don't then you lose.'

Moncton is 2-5 since Mike Evans took over as head coach.

'This win is a Christmas present for both ourselves and our fans,' he said. 'We really wanted the fans to enjoy this game and go into Christmas excited about the direction in which this team is headed.

'When you get a loud and enthusiastic crowd like we had in this game they become your sixth man. When the fans are into the game they can help get you through tough situations. I definitely think they had an impact tonight.'

The head coach offered a comment on Wonge's performance.

'Sometimes you have to be like a scorpion and strike at the right time,' said Evans. 'That's what Darrell Wonge did tonight. He was there with key baskets when we needed them to change the momentum of the game.

'Boubacar Coly, George Fudge ... we got great contributions from lots of guys in this game. Sylvania Watkins' defence was outstanding. You have to identify who you are as a team and we're striving to become better defensively every day. We want to be known as a team that's solid defensively.'

Courtesy of http://timestrancript.canadaeast.com

Storm make more roster changes - by Eurobasket News
It was announced earlier today that the Summerside Storm have released 2nd overall pick Justin Garris (6'4''-F-89, agency: ICRH, college: Ashland) and signed guard Troy Jackson (6'4''-F-84, college: Alcorn St.).

The 63 200lbs, Jackson comes to the Storm from Philadelphia. In College, he played for Alcorn State, which is part of the SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference). He was the lead scorer in the SWAC in his senior year with 21 points per game. Jackson went on to play under Coach Salerno in 2009 for the Vermont Frost Heaves; here he led the PBL in scoring at 19 points per game. Jackson also averaged five rebounds and four assists per game. He was a 78% free throw shooter, shot 47% from the floor and 41% from behind the arch. Jackson also played in the Dominican Republic and professionally in Europe.

Coach Salerno commented on the signing.

We are extremely excited to have Troy in Summerside. He is one of the fiercest competitors Ive ever known. Not only will he bring another scorer, but also a very good on ball defender, which is something we need.

Courtesy of http://summersidestorm.net

Darrell Wonge named NBL Player of the Week - by Eurobasket News
The Moncton Miracles have had a disappointing start to this season with an 0-11 start. But with a new coach in Mike Evans and a few roster changes, the Moncton Miracles were able to get the monkey off of their backs last week. Darrell Wonge (6'7''-F-86, college: Winston Salem), a 6'6' forward for Moncton, helped the Miracles make that happen. The Winston-Salem State alum averaged 20 ppg in his last three games for Moncton including a 30-point performance in Moncton's first win of the season against the Summerside Storm.

Wonge has been averaging 16.5 ppg for Moncton and leads the league in 3-pt % at 48.4%. The New York native continued his stellar play this week, putting up a season-high 31 points in the Miracles' win over the Oshawa Power on Monday night. The Miracles are now 2-12 on the season.

Darrell Wonge - Last Week's Performances:
12/13 vs SJ - 16 pts, 3 threes, 5 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl
12/16 @ SUMM - 30 pts (8-11), 5 threes, 4 reb
12/17 @ SJ - 14 pts, 4 reb, 1 blk, 1 stl

Upcoming for the Miracles: @ London (1/1), vs Saint John (1/3)

Courtesy of www.hiphoopjunkies.com

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

NCAA1

LSU's late run helps hands Marquette its first loss - by Eurobasket News
The Marquette University mens basketball team asked itself one important question Monday night after its 67-59 loss to Louisiana State at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

How would the Golden Eagles respond to their first loss of the season?

'Its to be continued,' said senior Jae Crowder (6'6''-F). 'Well see. We can grow from it and it can help us late in Big East play when we are on the road against some of the tougher teams like Syracuse.

'It was a good crowd tonight for our guys to realize what basketball is all about. We played a good neutral site game in New York but this was our first road test besides Wisconsin. Were 1-1 on those road tests and well grow from it for sure.'

Marquette (10-1) scored the games first 13 points but trailed at halftime, 26-23. Marquette went eight minutes without a basket late in the half and shot 28.6 percent in the first half.

LSU (8-3) scored 10 straight to take a 63-54 lead with 42 seconds left in the game.

Crowder led Marquette with 22 points and nine rebounds while Darius Johnson-Odom (6'2''-G-89) added 16 points. Leading LSU was guard Ralston Turner (6'6''-G) with 22 points.

Marquette shot 36.2 percent while LSU shot 53.5 percent.

LSU has now won five straight and seven of eight. Coach Trent Johnsons Tigers were without sophomore guard Andre Stringer (5'9''-G), their leading scorer (12.1 points per game), who is out indefinitely after experiencing a fainting spell earlier this month.

'As good as winning at Wisconsin was and as good as beating Washington in New York was, losing in the manner that we lost today as a mature team, which I believe that we are, we can learn just as much from this loss as we can from those wins,' said Marquette coach Buzz Williams. 'We have to learn from this, digest it and respond accordingly.

'As good as we were in the first four minutes of each half, I thought in the last 15 minutes of the first half, we were just as bad.'

LSU turned the ball over five times in the first three minutes of the second half, and Marquette ran off eight straight points to take a 31-29 lead.

After five ties, Crowder was fouled on a fast break after coming up with a steal and made one free throw. A layup by center Justin Hamilton put LSU back in front, but Johnson-Odom sank a three for the Golden Eagles. Hamilton then scored on an offensive rebound to tie the game, 45-45, with 6:43 left.

A jumper by Crowder broke that tie but LSU then scored five straight. Crowder sank two free throws and Johnson-Odom made a three and Marquette led, 52-50 with 3:58 left.

The lead changed hands before a three by Turner gave LSU a 56-54 lead. Marquettes Junior Cadougan turned the ball over, John Isaac hit a jumper and LSU led, 58-54, with 1:32 left. Johnson-Odom turned the ball over and Turner made two free throws to give LSU a six-point lead with 1:19 left.

Hamilton then made three free throws to complete the 10-0 run and give LSU a 63-54 lead with 42 seconds left.

'We didnt get enough stops to give ourselves a chance,' said Crowder. 'We had a chance but we didnt get enough stops to win the game. We just got away from what we do. We did a lot of things out of character.'

Crowder said he liked the teams energy when it scored the games first 13 points.

'But we didnt handle it very well,' he said. 'We took our foot off the gas and let them back in it.'

The Golden Eagles had expected to be tested by LSU as Williams had indicated in his pre-game scouting report.

'Theyre good,' said Williams. 'Athletically, theyre similar to Ole Miss. Their collection of bigs are the best that weve played against. Two undersized guards (including Stringer) that can really score. Unbelievable on the glass. Simple in how they approach the game. Superb in their execution of their simplicity. I think Trent Johnson is an outstanding coach. What hes done speaks for itself and I really like the complexion of their roster.'

Courtesy of www.bostonherald.com

McDermott, Creighton, sink Tulsa 83-64 - by Eurobasket News
Creighton's Doug McDermott (6'7''-F-92) highlighted a lot of dismal milestones for Tulsa's basketball program.

The Golden Hurricane were manhandled 83-64 by No. 23 Creighton on Monday night, for their seventh loss in nine games. Sophomore guard Jordan Clarkson (6'4''-G-92) scored 14 to lead Tulsa.

It was also the second-worst home loss in Doug Wojcik's seven years and dropped to 0-3 this season against old Missouri Valley Conference rivals.

McDermott scored a career-high 35 points and 'singlehandedly broke the spirit of my team, particularly my post defenders,' Wojcik said.

Fans of the once-proud program are staying away in droves. The announced crowd of 4,228 was easily double the actual attendance.

McDermott's 35 points tied for the most points by an opponent in the 13-year history of the Reynolds Center. The previous best was 35 points by Appalachian State's Omar Carter last year on Nov. 12, 2010.

The 6-foot-7 McDermott made 16 of 23 field goals as Tulsa elected not to double-team the nation's second-leading scorer. The Bluejays, 9-1, trailed 20-19, but went on an 8-0 run spurred by three baskets by Antoine Young. McDermott took over from there, scoring the Bluejays final 11 points of the half giving Creighton a 42-34 lead.

McDermot made 16 of 23 field goals.

'That was one impressive performance by Doug McDermott,' Wojcik said. 'We really wanted to defend the three-point line because they make 10 a game, but I was surprised at just how good he was in the post. His size, his strength, his stamina, his feet and just how good his hands are. He was shooting jump hooks over Kodi Maduka (6-11), who is long, and I don't think he even saw the basket and they were going in.'

Tulsa (5-7) has exceeded 70 points in two games, one of those in overtime. The Hurricane did not have the offensive firepower to keep pace with the Bluejays

'This is the first time we've had a ranked team in here in a long time and this one is just as hard to swallow as they have been all year,' said Tulsa guard Tim Peete, who scored 12 points. 'We just have to get move on and try to get better and figure out the answer really quick before conference starts.

'Coach coaches, but it's up to us as players to produce. We have to make free throws, hit the open shots and do what it takes.'

On this night, the Huricane had no answers for McDermott. Tulsa used a variety of defenders but did not double team often out of respect for the Bluejays 3-point shooters.

'Doug is very versatile in the post,' said Creighton coach Brad McDermott, Doug's father. 'He can go around you and loop it under if you guard him with a tall guy. Obviously Tulsa was wanting to take away the 3-pointer and you've got to pick your poison. Tonight we were able to get it inside and we executed as well as we have all year.'

Center Gregory Echenique, who played just two minutes in the first half, scored nine points in the first 2:52 of the second half before picking up his third foul as Creighton pulled out to a 51-34 advantage.

McDermott hit a 27-footer with a second on the shot clock to push the lead to 60-40, then added another trey on the next possession. The Bluejays made 34 of 58 field goals for 58.6 percent. Young had 14 points, four assists, four rebounds and five steals.

'Young is a senior guard who really controls the floor for them, uses ball screens well and gets the ball inside,' Wojcik said.

McDermott tied his career high of 31 on a floater with 7:30 left then ripped an offensive rebound from three Tulsa players on the next possession and laid it in to set a new personal best.

'It was just one of those games, Doug McDermott said. 'I had the touch around the basket early and my teammates did a great job of finding me. Tulsa is the probably the most physical team we've played.'

Courtesy of www.boston.com

No. 5 North Carolina beats Nicholls State 99-49 - by Eurobasket News
Nicholls State coach J.P. Piper knew his players were giving up plenty of size to No. 5 North Carolina. He just hoped the Colonels could hit enough 3-pointers to hang around a while.

Instead, the Tar Heels more than doubled the Colonels on the boards while Nicholls State made two 3s in a 99-49 loss Monday night.

The Tar Heels finished with a 72-35 rebounding advantage, including 31 on the offensive glass that led to 36 second-chance points. The Colonels missed 20 of 22 tries from 3-point range, while the Tar Heels blocked nine shots after halftime when the Colonels tried attacking the paint.

'I don't know if (the 3-point shooting) was a function of us having to work so hard to get to open spots because of their size, quickness and athleticism, or if we were just a little off tonight,' Piper said. 'I kept telling our guys to shoot it. They got reluctant in the second half to shoot it and started attacking the rim, and that was really a disaster. ... When you can't make 3s and can't lay the ball up, you're in trouble.'

As for the rebounding, Nicholls State didn't start anyone taller than 6-foot-7 against a front line of Harrison Barnes (6'8''-F-92) (6-8), John Henson (6'11''-F-90) (6-11) and Tyler Zeller (7'0''-F-90) (7-0).

'I don't think we necessarily competed as hard as we needed to early for some of those rebounds,' Piper said. 'There were times, however, when I felt like we put a body on a guy and had good position, and they were just superior.'

For North Carolina, Dexter Strickland (6'3''-G-90) scored 14 points and freshman reserve James Michael McAdoo (6'9''-F-93) added a season-high 14 for the Tar Heels (10-2), who dominated the undersized and overmatched Colonels for their fourth straight victory.

UNC's 31 offensive boards were second-most in program history. The Tar Heels had 39 rebounds by halftime to match or exceed their total for six games this season, and their 72 for the game were tied for second in school history and the program's most since 1956.

Bryan Hammond scored 15 to lead Nicholls State (4-8), which didn't manage a point for the first 5 1/2 minutes and shot just 31 percent for the game.

The Tar Heels are midway through a nine-game home stand that will keep them at the Smith Center through their first two Atlantic Coast Conference games in January. The next game comes Wednesday night against Texas - which beat North Carolina in Greensboro on a last-second shot last season - so Monday night's game offered the Tar Heels a chance to fine-tune their game before facing the Longhorns.

North Carolina had a 30-7 rebounding advantage in the first 12 1/2 minutes, including 18-0 on the offensive boards. North Carolina's first seven baskets were second-chance points, including a stickback from Reggie Bullock that capped a six-shot possession.

North Carolina led 20-9 on a jumper from Strickland, then ran off seven straight points to push the lead to 18 on a pair of baskets from Barnes. The lead grew to 28 by late in the half, then increased to as many as 52 points in the final minutes.

Freshman P.J. Hairston (6'6''-G) added 13 points for UNC, while Bullock finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Henson and Zeller each pulled down 11 rebounds, while Henson also had seven blocked shots.

But the Tar Heels made just 7 of 21 free throws in the first half before warming up to finish at 21 for 41 for the game.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Howard gets run over by No. 17 Indiana 107-50 - by Eurobasket News
Howard coach Kevin Nickelberry had hoped No. 17 Indiana might overlook his team.

There was no way it was going to happen Monday night.

Six Hoosiers scored in double figures, they shot 67.3 percent from the field and matched a season-high with 11 3-pointers, blasting Howard 107-50 for the second-most lopsided victory in school history.

'Tom must have gave his team one heck of a speech because they were coming of a good Kentucky game, a good Notre Dame game and we were hoping that would be underestimating us,' Nickelberry said of his old pal, Indiana coach Tom Crean. 'They came out as hungry as I have ever seen them.'

The Bison (3-9) simply could keep up with Indiana's intensity, focus, depth or shooters.

Howard shot just 30.6 percent from the field, finished with the same number of baskets (19) as turnovers and had only player score more than nine points. Simuel Frazier (5'11''-G) wound up with 13 points thanks to a late 3-pointer.

Scoring wasn't the only problem for Howard.

They gave up 43 points in less than 16 minutes and yielded the second- and third-most points scored in a half by any of Crean's teams in Bloomington 52 in the first half, 55 in the second.

It was that kind of night for the undermanned Bison, who didn't have leading scorer Calvin Thompson (groin).

'If I wasn't coaching against them, I would have been impressed,' Nickelberry said. 'It was unbelievable to see how hungry this team came out from the beginning.'

The result: Indiana produced its largest victory margin since Bob Knight's team beat Notre Dame 94-29 on Dec. 18, 1971, his sixth game as the Hoosiers coach.

It's also the fourth Indiana team to go 11-0, joining teams from 1942-43, 1974-75 and the last undefeated national champs of 1975-76.

The 107 points were the most in 13 years, dating to a 108-88 victory over George Washington in March 1999, and all that came on the same day Indiana celebrated its 500th all-time appearance in The Associated Press Top 25.

Jordan Hulls (6'0''-G) scored 16 points; Jones, Cody Zeller (6'11''-F) and Will Sheehey (6'6''-G/F) all had 12 and Christian Watford (6'9''-F-91) finished with 10. The Hoosiers tied a season-high with 11 3-pointers, including a left-handed, shot clock-beating 3 from the right-handed shooting Hulls.

'That was pretty cool,' Sheehey said.

Jones added: 'When we're shooting around (Hulls) always does stuff like that and we wonder what he's doing. But what he's doing is practicing for games like this, trick shots.'

Indiana shot 67.3 percent from the field.

Crean couldn't quibble with the defensive effort, either. Howard needed 25 minutes to crack the 20-point mark and by then, they already trailed 64-21.

Howard never had a chance.

Watford wiped out Howard's only lead when his 3-pointer bounced through the net for Indiana's first basket. After making it 17-10 with 12:40 to go in the first half, the Hoosiers delivered their knockout punch, a 16-0 spurt that ended with two 3s from Jones and a third from Hulls.

Dadrian Collins ended that run with a driving layup, which was merely a speed bump for the Hoosiers.

Indiana answered with 10 more points to make it 43-12. By halftime, the lead was 52-15, and the lead grew to as many as 60 points twice in the second half. So much for any worries.

'I think it shows a sign of maturity and staying focused,' Jones said. 'We know with Christmas coming up, this was a game we could have lost focus, but we came out and attacked and did all the things we had to win.'

Putting themselves in some elite company at Indiana.

'I was far more concerned with this game than I was Notre Dame, in the sense of being locked in,' Crean said. 'I had no doubt they would be ready to play Notre Dame, but this was the one that was concerning maybe but they locked in. They erased those coaching fears that you have, and it's only natural, but they erased those right away.'

Courtesy of www.chron.com

Syracuse still on top of Top 25; OSU comes in second - by Eurobasket News
Syracuse is on top of The Associated Press' college basketball poll for a second week and UNLV and Virginia are newcomers to the Top 25.

The Orange (11-0) received 53 first-place votes Monday from the 64-member national media panel. The next six places remained the same from last week: Ohio State, Kentucky, Louisville, North Carolina, Baylor and Duke. Ohio State had five first-place votes, while Kentucky had four and Louisville two.

Connecticut, Missouri and Marquette all move up one place to round out the top 10.

UNLV, out of the poll the last two weeks, and Virginia, which was last in the rankings for one week early in 2007-08, move in, replacing Texas A&M, which was No. 22; Alabama, which was 23rd; and Vanderbilt, which was tied for 25th.

Xavier, which lost 64-42 to Oral Roberts on Sunday to fall from the undefeated ranks, dropped from No. 8 to 14th. The Musketeers played without three starters who were suspended for their part in the brawl against Cincinnati the previous weekend.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Chase SIMON   Detroit .   (198-G-89)   Avg: 16.3

1. Simon, Detroit 16.3   2. Broekhoff, Valpa. 15.5   3. Perry, Youngsto. 15.5   4. van Wijk, Valparai. 15.2   5. McCallum, Detroit 14.8   6. Averkamp, Loyol. 14.8   7. Brown, Wisc.-Gr. 14.7   8. Gibler, Loyola, IL 13.7   9. Allen, Youngsto. 13.6   10. Williams, Wisc.-. 12.6

Rebounds Per Game

Ryan BROEKHOFF   Valpa.   (200-G/F-90)   Avg: 9.3

1. Broekhoff, Valpa. 9.3   2. Brown, Wisc.-Gr. 7.8   3. Eargle, Youngsto. 7.5   4. Haarsma, Wisc.-. 7.3   5. Averkamp, Loyol. 7.2   6. van Wijk, Valparai. 6.9   7. Williams, Ill.-Chi. 6.7   8. Smith, Butler 6.3   9. Humes, Ill.-Chicago 6.0   10. Cougill, Wisc.-. 6.0

Assists Per Game

Kaylon WILLIAMS   Wisc.-.   (190-G-89)   Avg: 6

1. Williams, Wisc.-. 6.0   2. Nored, Butler 4.9   3. Perry, Youngsto. 4.3   4. Brito, Loyola, IL 4.2   5. McCallum, Detroit 3.5   6. Talton, Ill.-Chica. 3.3   7. Montgomery, Clevel. 3.2   8. Travis, Ill.-Chica. 2.9   9. Broekhoff, Valpa. 2.7   10. Mays, Wright St. 2.7

Steals Per Game

Daundray BROWN   Clevelan.   (193-G-88)   Avg: 3

1. Brown, Clevelan. 3.0   2. Nored, Butler 2.5   3. Perry, Youngsto. 2.2   4. McCallum, Wisc.-. 1.7   5. Barnes, Ill.-Chica. 1.6   6. Harmon, Clevelan. 1.6   7. Williams, Wisc.-. 1.5   8. Mays, Wright St. 1.4   9. Crisman, Loyol. 1.4   10. Montgomery, Cleve. 1.4

Blocks Per Game

Damian EARGLE   Youngsto.   (200-F-89)   Avg: 4.2

1. Eargle, Youngsto. 4.2   2. Brown, Wisc.-Gr. 2.9   3. Lowe, Detroit 2.6   4. Grady, Clevelan. 1.6   5. Williams, Ill.-Chi. 1.3   6. Allen, Wisc.-Mi. 1.1   7. Woods, Butler 1.0   8. Smith, Butler 0.9   9. Broekhoff, Valpa. 0.9   10. Brooks, Youngsto. 0.9

Former Morehead State Star, Cordaryl Ballard Leads Hidden Gems Past Cambridge 138-123! - by Lucius Jones
Former Morehead St. star Cordaryl Ballard (6'5''-G/F-87, college: USC Aiken) led the Ohio Hidden Gems to a 138-123 victory in Cambridge with 34points, 8rebounds, 2assists, 4steals. Ballard is a prime OverSeas recruit who plays both ends of the floor and is one of the most passionate, competitive players around. From Mifflin H.S. to All Ohio Red AAU, to college ball, and even into almost every SemiPro League in the Midwest, he has been a dominating defender and now consistently scores 20+ppg versus quality competition.



Another D1 alum, Hampton Star Isaac Jefferson (6'5''-G/F-81, college: Hampton), turned in yet another triple double with 17points, 16rebounds, 11assists, 3steals, and 1block. The crafty veteran Captain played 1-4 in the win and played each position very well.



One of the best shooters around in Lee Sims (6'1''-G) scored 32points and had several high flying dunks putting his deceptive athleticism on display.



Newcomer to the team, Auston Young scored 24points and also passed out 6assists. Auston also was instrumental in a 19-0 3minute run that blew the highly competitive, close game wide open to start the 3rd quarter with 4 of his game-high 7 steals. In the first game it was Young who started the game off with a self-imposed 12-0 run to begin the contest.



Shaun Ballard (6'5''-G/F, college: Wisc.-Parkside) ended with 16points and almost as many (14) rebounds. His defense of positions 3-5 has been a key to the Ohio Hidden Gems pressure packages.



Lance Leslie added 4points and 5assists to the victory.

The win also marked the initial presentation of female Head Coach Lorrie Poindexter, college: Central State) who is also Head Coach of Walnut Ridge H.S. & Hidden Gems AAU 13u as well as a former D2 and Professional player at Central State and in Puerto Rico.

For Cambridge, Antonio Davis (6'6''-F-82, college: Urbana) scored 29 points on an array of moves and shots and Calvin Swann scored 22 points with several 3's from the top of the key. The 3rd installment of the rivalry begins at 7pm on January 8th.




Top 25 - Men

HorizL Standings

1. Cleveland St. 2-0 (10-2)   2. Wisc.-Milwaukee 2-0 (9-3)   3. Wisc.-Green Bay 2-0 (5-5)   4. Valparaiso 1-0 (7-4)   5. Wright St. 1-1 (4-8)   6. Youngstown St. 1-1 (6-5)   7. Butler 0-1 (5-6)   8. Detroit Mercy 0-2 (5-8)   9. Ill.-Chicago 0-2 (4-7)   10. Loyola, IL 0-2 (4-7)

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NCAA2

Clayton State wins nail bitter - by Eurobasket News
The contest between division rivals No. 17 Georgia Southwestern and Clayton State would be a barnburner as the Lakers (7-1, 1-0 PBC) would edge out the Hurricanes 85-84 in double overtime.

Evan Mobley led all scorers with 26 points, which included numerous clutch three-pointers and lay-ups in both overtimes. He also tallied six rebounds and three assists in addition to his 26 points. Phillip Brown would post 21 points, 19 rebounds and two blocks in the loss.

In the losing effort, GSW shot 42.2 percent from the field and won the rebounding margin by 16 rebounds. They would be plagued by 21 turnovers in the game, which translated into 24 Laker points.

Teondre Williams (6'4''-G-89) led the Laker offense with 20 points. He was supported by Andrew Bachanov (6'9''-F-87) (16 points and eight rebounds) and Anthony Salter (5'11''-G) (15 points).

The game featured a Williams versus GSW pace early as the transfer from Oregon scored CSU's first nine points. His three 3-pointers gave the Lakers the early 9-8 lead going into the game's first media timeout.

Early offensive execution for GSW was spotty, but Phillip Brown made up for it with his hard work on the boards. He cleaned the offensive glass, made free throws and blocked shots to keep the game close in the first 10 minutes.

Clayton State would ride hot 3-point shooting to their 36-28 halftime lead. The Lakers shot 6-12 from beyond the arc. The home team was led by Williams with 11 first-half points despite sitting much of the time with two fouls.

Teammate Andrew Bachanov would chip in nine points of his own while grabbing four rebounds.

Brown had nine points, 10 rebounds and two blocks in the first frame. Mobley and Jamon Hawkins each scored five points in the half.

GSW trailed by eight at half despite out-rebounding the Lakers 24-16 and converting 9-13 foul shots. This was stymied by shooting 8-28 and committing 10 turnovers in the first half.

A 9-4 Clayton State run in the first five minutes of the second half capitalized on mediocre GSW defense. This pushed the Laker lead to 13 points.

Brown would continue to carry the load offensively and on the glass to keep the game from getting out of hand. The one-man offensive show would be supported by Colin Slotter. The duo would cut the Clayton State lead to two points with eight minutes to play.

The Georgia Southwestern offense wouldn't be able to take control of the game. Its turnover plagued offense would give CSU a 10-point lead with 3:13 left to play. Back-to-back 3-pointers from Will Kenimer and Mobley would cut the lead to four points in less than 90 seconds.

Georgia Southwestern would grind the game down as Clayton State missed a late free throw. Kenimer would catch a pass, pump fake and fire a jump shot to tie the game. Kenimer's foot was just inside the arc, which forced the game into overtime.

The overtime period would see-saw back and forth as both teams. Williams would tie the game at 76 with his 16th and 17th points with 37 seconds remaining. GSW would turn it over on the following in-bound pass.

Williams would later miss a contested 3-point shot. Mobley would rebound and miss a half court heave as time expired to send the game to double overtime.

The back and forth pace of play would continue in the second overtime as Salter answered a Mobley lay-up with one of his own with 2.2 seconds left in the second overtime period. Mobley would toss a desperation half court shot that would miss as time expired.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

W. Washington downs No. 10 Rollins - by Eurobasket News
Forward Zach Henifin (6'5''-F) 18 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and four steals, leading Western Washington to a 80-61 victory against previously unbeaten No. 10 Rollins in first-round action at the sixth annual Great Western Shootout.

Guard John Allen (6'0''-G-89) had game-highs of 20 points and five assists for WWU, which won its ninth consecutive game and improved to 11-1.

Rollins fell to 7-1 and were led by the 14 points of forward Dave Diakite (6'6''-G/F).

The Vikings broke away from a 5-5 tie with a 17-2 charge in a five-minute span that gave them a 22-7 advantage with 12:22 left in the first half. Henifin and Allen each had six points in the run, Henifin igniting it with a driving dunk and Allen capping it with back-to-back three-pointers.

WWU, which hit seven of its first 13 three-point attempts, held a 38-28 lead at halftime.

The Vikings then broke the game completely open early in the second half, running off 10 straight points for a 62-38 lead with 12:26 to play. The margin was never less than 15 points after that.

Forward Rory Blanche (6'6''-F) had 12 points for WWU, which had a 39-30 advantage in rebounds and shot 50.0 percent from three-point range.

The triumph was third for the Vikings against a nationally ranked opponent this season, having already notched victories against BYU-Hawaii and Seattle Pacific.

The 80 WWU points were the most allowed by Rollins this season and the 61 points scored by the Tars were just one better than its previous low.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

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NCAA3

No. 4 MIT off to best start in program history - by Eurobasket News
Senior Jamie Karraker (6'4''-G) became MIT's all-time leading three-point shooter as the No. 4 Engineers improved to 12-0, the best start in program history, with a 71-47 victory against Wheelock on Wednesday night. Karraker hit his 232nd career three-pointer with 4:45 remaining to break the Institute mark previously held by Jimmy Bartolotta.

The Cardinal and Gray raced out to an early lead against the Wildcats (3-7), scoring 13 of the game's first 15 points, to take an 11-point advantage just under five minutes in. Wheelock battled back to keep things close throughout most of the half, thanks in part to Bashir Hudson's 11 first-half points.

Hudson's free throw capped a 7-3 spurt to bring Wheelock back within eight at 25-17 with 3:19 left in the period. The Engineers answered by scoring the final eight points of the half to take a 17-point advantage into the break. Karraker and senior Billy Bender canned back-to-back trifectas and junior Mitchell Kates found freshman Dennis Levene for a layup in the final seconds.

Tech continued to stretch its lead in the second half, outscoring the Wildcats 11-3 at one point midway through the second, thanks to a pair of three-pointers by Karraker surrounding a dunk by freshman Matt Redfield.

Karraker finished with a game-high 23 points on seven-of-17 shooting from long distance. Senior Noel Hollingsworth pitched in 18 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Bender was also in double figures, with 15 points to go along with six boards, three assists and three steals. Junior Will Tashman had a game-high 10 rebounds for the Engineers.

MIT shot 51.7 percent from the field and made 11-of-26 shots from long range while holding Wheelock to just 22.2 percent shooting (18-57).

Hudson led Wheelock with 13 points and nine rebounds, while Eric Rice added six points and Adam Russo hauled in six rebounds for the Wildcats.

Courtesy of NCAA (www.ncaa.com)

No. 6 Amherst rebounds from first loss, tops Anna Maria - by Eurobasket News
Jeff Holmes (6'7''-F) and Peter Kaasila (6'9''-C) combined for 17 boards and had 14 points apiece, as sixth-ranked Amherst rebounded from its first loss of the season with a 76-57 win against Anna Maria on Tuesday evening in LeFrak Gymnasium.

Anna Maria (2-5) came out of the gate as the quicker and more explosive team, but Amherst (9-1) found its rhythm and used its size advantage to maintain a comfortable lead throughout the majority of the game. Holmes and Kaasila each had five offensive rebounds and were a combined 12-for-17 from the floor, with Holmes adding four blocks on the night.

Also chipping in with 14 points for the Lord Jeffs was senior captain Taylor Barrise, who knocked down all four of his teams 3-pointers. Barrise was 4-for-10 from beyond the arc, but the rest of the Amherst squad was 0-for-17.

Junior guard Anthony Click used a 10-for-15 performance from the line to lead Anna Maria with 20 points, six rebounds and two blocks, but the Amcats were only 3-for-17 from long range and were out-rebounded by a 54-34 margin.

Click used a 3-pointer and a free throw to help the visitors hold a 6-5 lead after six minutes, but the Lord Jeffs took the lead for good on a Holmes layup that began a 10-point run. Barrise then knocked down a pair of 3-pointers during a 13-4 spurt that helped Amherst carry a 37-23 lead into halftime.

Javier Bristol threw down a one-handed dunk that brought the Anna Maria bench to its feet and made it a 48-40 game with 13:28 remaining in regulation, but Amherst point guard Aaron Toomey came right back and buried a jumper that allowed the Jeffs to lead by double digits the rest of the way.

Toomeys pull-up jumper was followed by a three-point play from Kaasila, who accounted for all 10 of Amhersts points during a stretch of nearly three minutes. The Amcats kept their deficit below 15 points until Barrise made it a 65-50 game with another 3-pointer, as the Jeffs led by at least 15 for the final 7:25.

Holmes was 5-for-5 with three blocks in the first half, while Kaasila was 4-for-4 with 10 points and six boards in the second. The Jeffs were 7-for-10 from the line in each period and shot 42.6 percent from the floor overall.

In addition to Clicks 20 points, Anna Maria got 10 apiece from Bristol and senior Brad Peterson, who each added six rebounds and combined for six steals. The Amcats shot only 28.6 percent in the first half but improved that mark to 40 percent in the second.

Courtesy of NCAA (www.ncaa.com)

Top 25 Ranking

Top 25 Ranking

1. Middlebury  2. Va.Wesleyan  3. Augustana, IL  4. MIT  5. Emory  6. Amherst  7. Williams  8. Whitworth  9. Marietta  10. Franklin & Marshall  11. Cabrini  12. Mary Hardin Baylor  13. WiscKing.-Whitew.  14. St.Thomas  15. Puget Sound  16. Birm.Southern  17. Wabash  18. Hope, MI  19. Wooster  20. Worcester Poly.  21. Buffalo St.  22. Claremont-Mudd  23. Rochester  24. Oswego St.  25. Wisc.-Stevens Point

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PAN ARAB GAMES

Standings

Standings

Group D 1. Jordan 2-0 2. Qatar 1-1 3. Algeria 0-2 Group E 1. Egypt 2-0 2. Tunisia 1-1 3. Kuwait 0-2 Group F 1. Iraq 2-0 2. Morocco 1-1 3. Saudi Arab. 0-2 Group G 1. Lebanon 2-0 2. Palestine 1-1 3. Sudan 0-2

Semifinalists become known in Doha - by Eurobasket News
Algeria - Qatar 56-67
Qatar completed the semifinal picture at Pan Arab Games. The hosts overcame Algeria today to clinch the second place in Group D. Erfan Ali (198-PF-83) posted 17 points to lead the effort. Algeria fell at 0-2 record and finished in the third position in the group. Qatar will take on Egypt tomorrow. Algeria will face Kuwait in the game for the 5th place. Qatar aggressively opened the game taking a 17:8 lead after ten minutes. Qatar maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 29:23 halftime lead. Algeria went on a rescue rally in the third term. The margin was cut to just four points with one quarter remaining 40:44. But Qatar proved the difference in the money time. The home team stayed confident and stole a key win at the end. Ndiaye posted 15 points, while Ali Turki (201-F/C-82) and Targuy Alban had 10 points each in the victory. Mounir Benzegala (178-PG-87, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Tampa) delivered 12 points for Algeria. Nabil Saidi netted 10 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Palestine - Sudan 87-67
Palestine registered the first win at the second stage of Pan Arab Games. They held off Sudan in Group G to improve at 1-1 record. Jamal Abu-Shamala (196-G/F-87, college: Minnesota) fired 32 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Sudan fell at 0-2 record after the loss. Sudan stayed competitive in the starting quarter. They earned a narrow 26:25 lead after ten minutes of action. But Palestine opened the second quarter on a 17:3 run to surge ahead. Palestine ensured a 51:36 halftime advantage. They maintained the lead throughout the third frame. They built a 69:55 advantage at the final intermission. Palestine never allowed Sudan closer throughout the final frame and rolled to a comfortable win at the end. Nicola Fadayel (191-F-87) posted 22 points, while Yahya AlKhatib had 12 points for the winning side. Kamal Elfadel (F/C) notched 30 points and 13 rebounds for Sudan. Alaa Eldin and Orsd Hamend chipped in 9 points each in defeat.

Saudi Arabia - Iraq 79-85
Iraq celebrated the second straight win at the second stage of Pan Arab Games in Doha. They held off Saudi Arabia to improve at 2-0 record in Group F. Iraq will now take on Lebanon for the 7th-8th place at the tournament. Saudi Arabia fell at 0-2 record and would face Sudan for the 11th-12th position. Iraq managed to build a narrow 21:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Saudi Arabia pulled ahead early in the second quarter but Iraq bounced back and secured a 41:33 halftime lead. The teams went neck and neck throughout the third quarter. Iraq entered the final frame up by a single point 59:58. They were able to clear off early in the final stanza to take an 8-point lead. Saudi Arabia fought till the final seconds but Iraq wisely kept their opponents at bay and earned a hard-fought win at the end. Mohammed Mahdi (203-F/C-91) notched 21 points and 15 rebounds. Ali Ismael (201-PF-94) added 14 points for the winners. Fahad Belal (181-G-91) replied with 25 points for Saudi Arabia. Ahmed Samater delivered 19 points and 8 rebounds in the losing case.

Egypt - Kuwait 79-63
Egypt won Group E of the Second Stage in Doha at the Pan Arab Games. The team needed 76:63 to take the first spot and advanced to the Semifinals. Egypt took the lead at the very beginning and reached 22-9 after the first period. Kuwait however replied with 18-10 to trail 5 points at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive as Egypt produced 32-19 to seal the victory. Amr El Gandy (202-F/C-88) stepped up with 16 points and Ibrahim ElGamal netted 9. Moamen AbdouElLanin and Haytham Kamal delivered 8 points apiece. Abdulaziz Mohammad (186-G/F-87) replied with 26 points in the losing effort and Nayef AlRashidi scored 12. Rashed AlRabah and Abdullah AlShammari (201-F-89) notched 8 points each in defeat. Tomorrow Egypt will face Qatar in the Semifinal game. In another one Jordan will take on Tunisia.



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POLAND

EuroCup: Dexia hold off PGE Turow in double-overtime drama - by Eurobasket News
Dexia - PGE Turow 98:97 (2OT)

Dexia wrapped up their EuroCup campaign with a double-overtime win over PGE Turow. Warren Carter (205-F/C-85, college: Illinois) notched 24 points and 10 rebounds to pace the hosts. Both teams finished at 2-4 record outside of Last 16 qualifying zone.
PGE Turow stayed well in control throughout the first half. The Polish team posted a 45:32 lead at the interval. The Belgian side struck right back after the big break. Dexia cut the deficit to 7 points heading into the fourth frame. Dexia managed to erase the deficit and even pulled in front in the fourth stanza. However Ronald Moore (183-G-88, college: Siena) tied things up and sent the game into overtime. PGE Turow surged ahead in the first extra period but A.J. Slaughter helped Dexia to stay in the game and force the second overtime. The hosts finally pulled their noses in front and hung on to celebrate a thrilling victory at the end. Sebastien Bellin (205-C-78, agency: Court Side, college: Oakland) accounted for 17 points, while Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) had 15 points in the win. Ronald Moore answered with 16 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for PGE Turow. Daniel Kickert (208-C-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) top-scored for the visitors with 19 points.

Dexia: Warren Carter 24+10 boards, Sebastien Bellin 17, Quincy Taylor 15
PGE Turow: Daniel Kickert 19, Ronald Moore 16


Standings - DBE

PLK Standings

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

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QATAR

Pan Arab Games: Qatar tame Algeria, enter semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Qatar - Algeria 67:56

Qatar completed the semifinal picture at Pan Arab Games. The hosts overcame Algeria today to clinch the second place in Group D. Erfan Ali (198-PF-83) posted 17 points to lead the effort. Algeria fell at 0-2 record and finished in the third position in the group. Qatar will take on Egypt tomorrow. Algeria will face Kuwait in the game for the 5th place.
Qatar aggressively opened the game taking a 17:8 lead after ten minutes. Qatar maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 29:23 halftime lead. Algeria went on a rescue rally in the third term. The margin was cut to just four points with one quarter remaining 40:44. But Qatar proved the difference in the money time. The home team stayed confident and stole a key win at the end. Ndiaye posted 15 points, while Ali Turki (201-F/C-82) and Targuy Alban (197-F-84) had 10 points each in the victory. Mounir Benzegala (178-PG-87, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Tampa) delivered 12 points for Algeria. Nabil Saidi (200-F/C-80) netted 10 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.

Qatar: Erfan Ali 17, Ousseynou Ndiaye 15, Ali Turki 10, Targuy Alban 10
Algeria: Mounir Benzegala 12, Nabil Saidi 10+10 boards


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RUSSIA

EuroCup: Banvit edge Lokomotiv, both enter Last 16 - by Eurobasket News
Banvit - Lokomotiv Kuban 79:55

Banvit overcame Lokomotiv Kuban at home court in the sixth round of EuroCup regular season. The victory allowed the hosts to clinch the top position in Group E. Charles Davis (202-F-84, college: Alabama) notched 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists to pace the winners. Lokomotiv Kuban finished in the second place after the loss.
Banvit grabbed the initiative right from the start. The Turkish team posted a 22:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Banvit maintained the lead throughout the second frame posting a 42:29 halftime advantage. Things did not change after the big break. Banvit boosted the gap taking a 19-point buffer and stayed on the winning track till the final buzzer. Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81) accounted for 14 points, while Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) finished with 11 points for the winners. Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) answered with 12 points for Lokomotiv. Maxim Grigoryev (195-G-90), Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) and Lionel Chalmers (184-G-80, college: Xavier) knocked down 9 points each in the loss.

Banvit: Charles Davis 15, Kenan Bajramovic 14, Lance Williams 11
Lokomotiv Kuban: Roderick Blakney 12, Jeremiah Massey 9, Lionel Chalmers 9, Maxim Grigoryev 9


EuroCup: Spartak too good for Benetton in Saint Petersburg - by Eurobasket News
Spartak SP - Benetton 97:77

Spartak Saint Petersburg clinched the sixth consecutive win at EuroCup regular season. They outgunned Benetton to reach Last 16. Vladimir Dragicevic (205-C/F-86) accounted for 21 points as Spartak won Group G. Benetton finished in the second position at 3-3 record.
Spartak ensured a quick start to the game. They grabbed the lead and posted a 23:14 cushion after ten minutes. Benetton narrowed the gap by a single point at halftime 39:47. Spartak stepped on the gas in the third term. The Russian powerhouse erupted for 30 points to enter the final period up by as many as 19 points 77:58. Benetton never recovered afterwards allowing their opponents to cruise to the victory. Loukas Mavrokefalidis (208-C-84) had 14 points, while Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) had 12 points in the win. Jobey Thomas (194-G-80, college: Charlotte) answered with 22 points for Benetton. Sani Becirovic (196-G-81) posted 16 points in the loss.

Spartak SP: Vladimir Dragicevic 21, Loukas Mavrokefalidis 14, Miha Zupan 12
Benetton: Jobey Thomas 22, Sani Becirovic 16


EuroCup: Khimky dominated Group B - by Eurobasket News
VEF Riga - Khimky 68:79

Khimky dominated Group B in EuroCup to win it with 6-0 record. The Russian team grabbed 79:68 win over VEF Riga as both teams advanced to the next stage,
The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. VEF Riga was better in second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Khimky forced 24 VEF Riga turnovers. VEF Riga was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86, agency: Alti Sport) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) chipped in 12 points, 8 assists and 5 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was Curtis Millage (185-G-81, college: Arizona St.) who recorded 19 points and 5 rebounds and Tyler Cain (203-F-88, college: S.Dakota) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively.

VEF Riga: Curtis Millage 19, Tyler Cain 17+6reb, Courtney Sims (211-C-83, college: Michigan) 10
Khimky: Alexey Zhukanenko 19, .Zoran Planinic 12,Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83, agency: Alti Sport) 12


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

SERBIA

Maksim Kovacevic signs in Austria - by Eurobasket News
Maksim Kovacevic (199-G/F-87) got a deal in Austria. The Serbian guard/small forward will spend rest of the season with BC Vienna. Kovacevic already made debut for his new team. He had 23 points and 7 rebounds against Arkadia. Vienna lost that game on the road 91-101. Kovacevic started the season with APOEL Nicosia, but they parted ways recently. Maksim Kovacevic played for Superfund BP in 2010/11. He averaged 16.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.9 assists for 17 games. From 2007 to 2010 he was a member of Novi Sad. In the past, Maksim Kovacevic played for Partizan Belgrade youth teams. He also played for U20 Serbia in 2007.

Standings - A Liga

A Standings

1. Vojvodina 11-2   2. BKK Radnicki 9-4   3. Mega Vizura 9-4   4. Sloga 9-4   5. Borac 8-5   6. Smederevo 8-5   7. Tamis 8-5   8. OKK Beograd 6-5   9. Radnicki Basket 6-6   10. Sloboda Uzice 4-9   11. Metalac 4-9   12. Zeleznicar 3-9   13. Napredak 2-11   14. Proleter Naftagas 2-11  Play in international cups:  1. Crvena Zvezda -   2. Hemofarm -   3. Partizan -   4. Radnicki K. -

Stats Leaders - 1A

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Milos BOJOVIC   Zeleznicar   (198-G-81)   Avg: 22.8

1. Bojovic, Zeleznicar 22.8   2. Milisavljevi., Meg. 22.2   3. Popovic, Sloga 21.1   4. Dimic, Radnicki. 20.3   5. Zigeranovic, Borac 20.2   6. Balaban, Smederevo 19.0   7. Bozovic, Sloga 18.0   8. Pekovic, Prolet. 16.9   9. Micic, Mega Vizura 15.9   10. Dramicanin, Borac 15.2

Rebounds Per Game

Bosko BALABAN   Smederevo   (--)   Avg: 9.3

1. Balaban, Smederevo 9.3   2. Cantekin, Mega V. 8.4   3. Zigeranovic, Borac 8.1   4. Smiljanic, Radnic. 7.5   5. Misanovic, OKK B. 7.5   6. Mijajlovic, Sloga 6.8   7. Petrovic, BKK R. 6.8   8. Majkic, Prolet. 6.5   9. Kuburovic, Slobod. 6.3   10. Jovic, Sloga 6.1

Assists Per Game

Marko POPOVIC   Sloga   (193-G-84)   Avg: 6

1. Popovic, Sloga 6.0   2. Jovic, Sloga 5.6   3. Dundjerski, Vojvo. 5.3   4. Milisavljevi., Meg. 5.0   5. Radulovic, Zelezni. 5.0   6. Micic, Mega Vizura 5.0   7. Stefanovic, Smede. 4.8   8. Boltic, BKK R. 4.8   9. Mitrovic, OKK B. 4.3   10. Rakic, Sloboda Uz. 4.0

Steals Per Game

Negoslav GACIC   BKK Radnicki   (--)   Avg: 3.4

1. Gacic, BKK Radnicki 3.4   2. Jovic, Sloga 2.8   3. Boltic, BKK R. 2.7   4. Micic, Mega Vizura 2.5   5. Vulin, Prolet. 2.5   6. Dundjerski, Vojvo. 2.3   7. Vasilic, Radnic. 2.3   8. Kuzeta, Vojvodina 2.2   9. Jereminov, Tamis 2.1   10. Kuburovic, Slobod. 1.9

Blocks Per Game

Nenad MISANOVIC   OKK B.   (217-C-84)   Avg: 1.8

1. Misanovic, OKK B. 1.8   2. Zigeranovic, Borac 1.3   3. Balaban, Smederevo 1.2   4. Bojic, Mega Vizura 0.9   5. Zekovic, Vojvodina 0.8   6. Tubak, Radnicki. 0.8   7. Petronic, BKK R. 0.8   8. Cantekin, Mega V. 0.8   9. Jevtovic, Sloboda 0.8   10. Bjegovic, Prolet. 0.8

A League Round 13: Sloga is upset by Tamis - by Eurobasket News
A League is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 13 rounds left. Host teams show no mercy winning all games.

The game between third ranked Sloga (9-4) and seventh ranked Tamis (8-5) was the most important one in the last round on Saturday night. Sloga was crushed by Tamis in Pancevo 90-62. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Sloga. The game was mostly controlled by Tamis. Sloga managed to win fourth quarter 22-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Sloga to just 7 points in second quarter. Tamis forced 23 Sloga turnovers. Bosnian power forward Vuk Ivanovic (208-83, college: BYU, agency: Interperformances) fired 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Bosnian forward Nemanja Stanimirovic (203-85) chipped in 20 points. Power forward Slobodan Bozovic (207-79, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Tamis moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Borac and Smederevo. Sloga at the other side dropped to the second position with four games lost. They share it with Mega Vizura and BKK Radnicki. Tamis is looking forward to face Borac (#5) in Cacak in the next round. Sloga will play on the road against the league's second-placed BKK Radnicki in Beograd and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Mega Vizura (9-4) against fourth ranked BKK Radnicki (9-4) on Sunday night. Visiting Mega Vizura was defeated by BKK Radnicki in a tough game in Beograd 69-75. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mega Vizura. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Marko Boltic (193-87) who helped to win the game recording 29 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals. Aleksandar Petrovic contributed with 19 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Guard Stefan Matovic (203-91) answered with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds for Mega Vizura. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BKK Radnicki moved-up to second place, which they share with Sloga and Mega Vizura. BKK Radnicki will play against Sloga (#4) in Kraljevo in the next round. Mega Vizura will play on the road against Sloboda in Uzice and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Bottom-ranked Napredak Rubin managed to get a second victory, breaking the series of three consecutive loses on Saturday night. This time they won against thirteenth-ranked Proleter Naftagas in Krusevac 81-69. Slaven Cupkovic (205-PF-88) stepped up and scored 22 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Napredak Rubin's coach Bratislav Knezevic used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side Miladin Pekovic responded with 22 points. Napredak Rubin (2-11) moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with defeated Proleter Naftagas. Proleter Naftagas lost fourth consecutive game. Napredak Rubin will meet at home higher ranked OKK Beograd (#8) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Proleter Naftagas will play against the league's leader Vojvodina (#1) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Leader Vojvodina delivered the eleventh victory. This time they crushed 5th ranked Smederevo Vizura (8-5) 93-67 in Novi Sad. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Smederevo Vizura. Slobodan Dundjerski nailed 14 points and 7 assists for the winning side. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Vojvodina have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 11-2 record. Newly promoted Smederevo Vizura keeps the fifth position with five games lost. Vojvodina's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Proleter Naftagas (#14) in Zrenjanin which should be another easy win for them. Smederevo Vizura will play on the road against Zeleznicar (#12) in Indjija.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Beograd, where 6th ranked Borac (8-5) lost to ninth ranked Radnicki Basket (6-6) in a road game 71-84 on Saturday. Milos Dimic fired 19 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Newly promoted Radnicki Basket maintains ninth place with 6-6 record. Loser Borac dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Radnicki Basket will face Metalac (#11) in Valjevo in the next round. Borac will play on the road against Tamis (#7) in Pancevo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 13 Sloboda Uzice was defeated by OKK Beograd in a road game 86-70. Zeleznicar smashed Metalac at home 78-57.

Tamis - Sloga 90-62

The game between third ranked Sloga (9-4) and seventh ranked Tamis (8-5) was the most important one in the last round on Saturday night. Sloga was crushed by Tamis in Pancevo 90-62. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Sloga. The game was mostly controlled by Tamis. Sloga managed to win fourth quarter 22-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Sloga to just 7 points in second quarter. Tamis forced 23 Sloga turnovers. Bosnian power forward Vuk Ivanovic (208-83, college: BYU, agency: Interperformances) fired 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Bosnian forward Nemanja Stanimirovic (203-85) chipped in 20 points. Power forward Slobodan Bozovic (207-79, agency: Kotnik Sports Agency) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds and guard Sasa Djordjevic (190-85) added 11 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Tamis moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Borac and Smederevo. Sloga at the other side dropped to the second position with four games lost. They share it with Mega Vizura and BKK Radnicki. Tamis is looking forward to face Borac (#5) in Cacak in the next round. Sloga will play on the road against the league's second-placed BKK Radnicki in Beograd and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Tamis: V.Ivanovic 21+7reb+1ast, N.Stanimirovic 20+4reb, B.Jereminov 13+2reb+3ast, M.Popadic 12+5reb+5ast, B.Stanojevic 5+2reb, M.Radenkovic 5+4reb+2ast
Sloga: A.Jevdjic 13+4reb+4ast, V.Jacovic 13+1ast, S.Bozovic 12+10reb+1ast, S.Djordjevic 11+8reb+3ast, D.Vuletic 4+3reb, A.Marelja 4

gschID: 147920

BKK Radnicki - Mega Vizura 75-69

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Mega Vizura (9-4) against fourth ranked BKK Radnicki (9-4) on Sunday night. Visiting Mega Vizura was defeated by BKK Radnicki in a tough game in Beograd 69-75. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mega Vizura. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 25-18. But Mega Vizura won second period 21-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when BKK Radnicki won last quarter 18-13. They made 21-of-27 charity shots (77.8 percent) during the game. BKK Radnicki forced 21 Mega Vizura turnovers. Mega Vizura was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Marko Boltic (193-87) who helped to win the game recording 29 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals. Center Aleksandar Petrovic (206-72) contributed with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Guard Stefan Matovic (203-91) answered with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds and guard Branko Milisavljevic (193-76, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points and 5 assists in the effort for Mega Vizura. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BKK Radnicki moved-up to second place, which they share with Sloga and Mega Vizura. BKK Radnicki will play against Sloga (#4) in Kraljevo in the next round. Mega Vizura will play on the road against Sloboda in Uzice and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
BKK Radnicki: M.Boltic 29+5reb+4ast, A.Petrovic 19+12reb+2ast, D.Kitanovic 11+3reb, Z.Osmokrovic 4+3reb+6ast, S.Lalic 4+7reb, N.Gacic 3+1reb
Mega Vizura: B.Milisavljevic 16+3reb+5ast, S.Matovic 13+12reb+1ast, U.Duvnjak 11+3reb+2ast, D.Cvetkovic 9+5reb+3ast, M.Lukovic 9+5reb+1ast, N.Maravic 7+5reb+1ast

gschID: 147921

OKK Beograd - Sloboda Uzice 86-70

There was no surprise when 10th ranked Sloboda (4-9) was defeated on the road by eighth ranked OKK Beograd (6-5) 86-70 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by OKK Beograd. Sloboda was better in fourth quarter 20-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. OKK Beograd shot 60.8 percent from the field. Sloboda was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Swingman Jovan Koprivica (198-82) fired 13 points and 4 assists for the winners. point guard Luka Drca (195-87, college: Utah, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 12 points and 5 assists. Guard Miljan Rakic (195-86, agency: BeoExcell) produced 15 points and 5 assists and center Novak Popovic (207-81) added 16 points respectively for lost side. Five OKK Beograd and four Sloboda players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. OKK Beograd maintains eighth place with 6-5 record. Loser Sloboda keeps the tenth position with nine games lost. OKK Beograd will face Napredak Rubin (#13) in Krusevac in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Sloboda will play at home against Mega Vizura.
Top scorers:
OKK Beograd: F.Sepa 17+1reb, J.Koprivica 13+3reb+4ast, S.Knezevic 12+7reb, L.Drca 12+2reb+5ast, D.Mitrovic 12+1reb+1ast, N.Bezbradica 5
Sloboda Uzice: N.Popovic 16+4reb+2ast, M.Rakic 15+3reb+5ast, N.Jevtovic 13+6reb+1ast, I.Kuburovic 10+5reb+3ast, N.Marinkovic 6+1reb, N.Vucicevic 3+2reb+1ast

gschID: 147915

Napredak - Proleter Naftagas 81-69

Bottom-ranked Napredak Rubin managed to get a second victory, breaking the series of three consecutive loses on Saturday night. This time they won against thirteenth-ranked Proleter Naftagas in Krusevac 81-69. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Napredak Rubin forced 19 Proleter Naftagas turnovers. Slaven Cupkovic (205-88) stepped up and scored 22 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and power forward Aco Mandic (204-84) chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds. Four Napredak Rubin players scored in double figures. Napredak Rubin's coach Bratislav Knezevic used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side swingman Miladin Pekovic (196-83, agency: BeoExcell) responded with 22 points and center Zoran Majkic (207-78, agency: Court Side) scored 8 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists. Napredak Rubin (2-11) moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with defeated Proleter Naftagas. Proleter Naftagas lost fourth consecutive game. Napredak Rubin will meet at home higher ranked OKK Beograd (#8) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Proleter Naftagas will play against the league's leader Vojvodina (#1) having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Napredak: S.Cupkovic 22+5reb, A.Mandic 15+8reb+1ast, V.Radmanovac 13+3reb+1ast, K.Jones 12+2ast, M.Puzic 9+4reb+1ast, S.Mihajlovic 6+3reb
Proleter Naftagas: M.Pekovic 22+3reb+2ast, L.Igrutinovic 20+6reb, B.Obrenovic 12+2reb+1ast, Z.Majkic 8+12reb+6ast, M.Martinovic 2+2reb, P.Peterson 2

gschID: 147916

Vojvodina - Smederevo 93-67

Leader Vojvodina delivered the eleventh victory. This time they crushed 5th ranked Smederevo Vizura (8-5) 93-67 in Novi Sad. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Smederevo Vizura. The game was mostly controlled by Vojvodina. Smederevo Vizura was better in third quarter 10-2. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Vojvodina won last quarter 69-44. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Smederevo Vizura to just 2 points in second quarter and to 13 points in first half. Vojvodina dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Smederevo Vizura's 36. Vojvodina forced 20 Smederevo Vizura turnovers. Guard Slobodan Dundjerski (190-88, agency: Alti Sport) nailed 14 points and 7 assists for the winning side and power forward Dragan Zekovic (210-87, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 13 points and 5 rebounds. Four Vojvodina players scored in double figures. Bosko Balaban came up with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds and guard Vojin Svilar (188-86, college: W.Georgia) added 15 points respectively for Smederevo Vizura in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Vojvodina have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 11-2 record. Newly promoted Smederevo Vizura keeps the fifth position with five games lost. Vojvodina's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Proleter Naftagas (#14) in Zrenjanin which should be another easy win for them. Smederevo Vizura will play on the road against Zeleznicar (#12) in Indjija.
Top scorers:
Vojvodina: S.Dundjerski 14+3reb+7ast, D.Zekovic 13+5reb+1ast, D.Bunic 13+1reb+1ast, R.Markovic 12+2reb+1ast, S.Stojacic 8, S.Milosevic 8+2reb+1ast
Smederevo: B.Balaban 19+11reb, V.Svilar 15+3reb, D.Majstorovic 11+2reb, B.Jovovic 9+5reb+1ast, V.Popovic 6+2reb, N.Vukasovic 4+2reb

gschID: 147917

Zeleznicar - Metalac 78-57

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams in Indjija where twelfth ranked Zeleznicar (3-9) smashed 11th ranked Metalac (4-9) 78-57 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-57. Zeleznicar made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Metalac turnovers. Metalac was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Nenad Canak (204-76, agency: Beo Basket) fired 23 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Guard Aleksandar Radulovic (190-88, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 10 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Guard Nikola Micevic (196-82) produced 13 points and swingman Dragan Kruscic (198-86) added 12 points respectively for lost side. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Newly promoted Zeleznicar maintains twelfth place with 3-9 record. Loser Metalac dropped to the tenth position with nine games lost. Zeleznicar will face higher ranked Smederevo Vizura (#6) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Zeleznicar: N.Canak 23+5reb+2ast, M.Bojovic 18+1reb+1ast, A.Radulovic 10+5reb+8ast, D.Djordjic 9+7reb+1ast, S.Gugleta 7+1reb, G.Bajic 4+3reb
Metalac: N.Micevic 13+3reb+3ast, D.Kruscic 12+3reb+2ast, D.Djukanovic 9+1reb+1ast, R.Marojevic 6+1reb+1ast, M.Savic 5+1reb, M.Trtic 4+2reb

gschID: 147918

Radnicki Basket - Borac 84-71

We should mention about the upset which took place in Beograd, where 6th ranked Borac (8-5) lost to ninth ranked Radnicki Basket (6-6) in a road game 71-84 on Saturday. Radnicki Basket made 22-of-29 free shots (75.9 percent) during the game. Borac was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Milos Dimic (195-89) fired 19 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Milan Milovanovic (205-91) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. Five Radnicki Basket players scored in double figures. Center Rastko Dramicanin (207-86, agency: BeoExcell) produced 27 points and 5 rebounds and center Ivan Zigeranovic (212-84, agency: BeoExcell) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Newly promoted Radnicki Basket maintains ninth place with 6-6 record. Loser Borac dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Radnicki Basket will face Metalac (#11) in Valjevo in the next round. Borac will play on the road against Tamis (#7) in Pancevo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Radnicki Basket: M.Dimic 19+7reb+2ast, M.Milovanovic 16+6reb, D.Tubak 14+6reb, I.Smiljanic 11+9reb+1ast, A.Dzakovic 10+3reb+5ast, N.Siladji 6+1reb+1ast
Borac: R.Dramicanin 27+5reb, M.Maksimovic 12+7reb, I.Zigeranovic 11+5reb+4ast, F.Pajevic 9+2reb+3ast, I.Cvetkovic 6+5reb, D.Radovic 4+1ast

gschID: 147919

OKK Beograd signs young prospect Nemanja Bezbradica - by Eurobasket News
OKK Beograd announced signing of young power forward Nemanja Bezbradica (205-F/C-93, agency: Beo Basket). The 18-year-old player already made his pro debut. He played two games for OKK Beograd so far averaging 4.5 points. Bezbradica spent last few years with FMP youth teams. He played for U18 Serbian National Team last summer. Bezbradica helped them win the Silver at the European Championships U18 in Wroclaw. He had 8.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 8 games at this event. In 2010, Nemanja Bezbradica played for U17 Serbia at the U17 World Championship. In 2009, he won the Bronze with U16 Serbia at U16 EuroBasket in Kaunas. He had 10.6 ppg, 6.7 rpg and 1.8 bpg for 9 games.

Peja Stojakovic says he is retiring - by Eurobasket News
Predrag Stojakovic (6'10''-F-77) is going out on top.

One of the greatest shooters in NBA history, Stojakovic, 34, announced he will retire after 13 seasons in the NBA which finished with him winning his first ever championship with the Mavericks last season.

'When you start competing against your body more than you're preparing for the actual game,' Stojakovic said, 'it's a wakeup call.'

Stojakovic said he was battling through neck and back issues and because of the physical demand of an NBA season, he just saw it as time to hang it up.

'I feel so blessed to have been given the athletic gifts to play professional basketball,' Stojakovic said in a release. 'I have always loved the game, and have great respect for it, and I know the time is right to step away. I promised myself a long time ago, if it came to the point where my heart and body were not 100% committed, I would step away. I have reached that point and I know the time is right to retire.

Stojakovic, a three-time All-Star, played for the Kings, Pacers, Hornets and Mavericks. He averaged 17 points per game for his career, 40 percent from 3-point range and fourth all-time with 1,760 3-pointers made.

So with Stojakovic being one of the greatest shooters ever, it has to be asked: Is he Hall of Fame material?

He will be, at least in terms of the international Hall of Fame committee. He was a star in Greece for a number of years and was a major part of the Serbian national team winning the 2001 Eurobasket tournament and the 2002 World Championship. As for NBA Hall of Famer, probably not.

Though Peja did have some incredible years in Sacramento. Look at his run from 2000-2005. He averaged better than 20 ppg on 48 percent shooting and 40 percent shooting from 3. His 2003-04 season was outstanding: 24.2 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 48 percent from the field and 43.3 percent from 3. That's incredible.

After he finished in Sacramento, he had difficulty staying healthy, missing about 30 games on average every season after that.

He's an all-time great shooter and after multiple years of being so close in Sacramento, Stojakovic got his title in Dallas last season. Always a good way to go out.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

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SLOVENIA

EuroCup: Krka overcome Le Mans - by Eurobasket News
Krka - Le Mans 68:65

Krka finished their EuroCup regular season campaign on a high note. They defeated Le Mans to improve at 4-2 record in the second place in Group F. Krka advanced into the next round, while Le Mans got eliminated with 1-5 record.
Krka stunned their opponents in the starting frame. The Slovenian side went on a 25:10 run to clear off. Le Mans stopped the rot in the second quarter. They narrowed the gap to 12 points at the interval 28:40. The French team got even closer in the third period. Led by Taylor Taylor Rochestie (185-PG-85, college: Washington St.) the visitors got within 8 points with ten minutes remaining 46:54. Le Mans drew things level at 60 late in regulation however Edo Muric (202-F-91) and Jure Balazic (204-F-80) came up with timely buckets to seal the win for Krka. Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80) posted 13 points, while Jure Balazic had 11 points for Krka. Taylor Taylor Rochestie responded with 13 points for Le Mans. Charles Kahudi (197-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Travon Bryant (206-F-83, college: Missouri) had 10 points each in the loss.

Krka: Smiljan Pavic 13, Jure Balazic 11, Mustafa Abdul-Hamid 10, Edo Muric 10
Le Mans: Taylor Rochestie 13, Charles Kahudi 10, Travon Bryant 10


Helios, Zlatorog wins - by Zeljko Zule
Helios and Zlatorog both won their games of Telemach League Round 11.
Helios-Slovan 73-66: The home team trailed for only one possession, 0-2, and had their largest lead of the game at 33-17 early in the second quarter. Slovan cut the deficit to 36-38 and they were three points behind in the third quarter. Helios scored seven straight points to go ahead 53-43 and it lead never dipped below five points the rest of the way. Drago Pasalic posted 19 points, Klemen Prepelic added 17 points and Drazen Bubnic finished with 10 points. Slovan was led by Ande Djugum with 17 points, Maj Kovacevic came off the bench for 12 points and Luka Rupnik had 10 points and 7 assists.
Sentjur-Zlatorog 86-94: The game saw just four lead changes and five ties before Zlatorog took control. They grabbed a 39-35 edge in the second quarter and never looked back from there. Zlatorog had their largest lead of the game at 78-63 in the final period. Zlatorog used 11 players and all scored. Its bench players outscored Sentjur's reserves 32-13. Jure Skific finished with 17 points, Alen Omic had 14 points, Grega Mali adeed 13 points and Daniel Vujasinovic scored 11 points. All five Sentjur starters scored in double figures. Travis Nelson (211-C-87, college: Minnesota St.) scored 18 of his 23 points in the first half and grabbed 11 rebounds, Patrick Rembert posted 15 points, Igor Maric added 12 points and Mladen Primorac and Tadej Ferme both netted 10 points.


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SPAIN

EuroCup: Base Oostende overcame Valencia Basket - by Eurobasket News
Oostende - Valencia 87:83

Base Oostende overcame Valencia Basket but it was not enough to secure the place in Last 16 of EuroCup. The Belgian team won 87:83 to get the second win. Oostende finished third in Group D with a 2-4 record due to its tie-break advantage with Lukoil Academic. Valencia was second in Group B with a 4-2 record, as Asvel had the tie-break advantage against the Spanish powerhouse.
The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87:83.
The best player for the winners was Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Kennedy Winston (198-F-84, college: Alabama) chipped in 19 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Zarko Rakocevic (204-F-84) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds and 4 blocks and Rafael Martinez (191-G-82) added 23 points and 4 assists respectively.

Valencia: Rafael Martinez 23, Zarko Rakocevic 20+13rebs, Rihards Kuksiks (198-G/F-88, college: Arizona St.) 15, Serhiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) 13
Oostende: Kennedy Winston 19, Dusan Djordjevic 19, Dusan Sakota (208-PF-86, agency: Beo Basket) 16, Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, college: Purdue) 13


Stats Leaders-LEB Silver

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Marko TODOROVIC   Prat J.   (203-F-92)   Avg: 20.2

1. Todorovic, Prat J. 20.2   2. Monroe, Tenerife 17.9   3. Ott, Lan M. 17.3   4. Atoyebi, Lan M. 16.2   5. Elias, Tenerife 15.7   6. Balmon, Las Rozas 15.3   7. Eriksson, Barca R. 15.3   8. Ausina, Aurtenec. 15.1   9. Salson, Las Rozas 15.0   10. Smith, Coruna 13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Jose BALMON   Las Rozas   (204-C-81)   Avg: 10

1. Balmon, Las Rozas 10.0   2. Elias, Tenerife 9.0   3. Todorovic, Prat J. 9.0   4. Atoyebi, Lan M. 8.5   5. Thompson, Aurtene. 8.4   6. Mbaye, Barca R. 8.3   7. Monroe, Tenerife 8.0   8. Miller, Gandia B. 7.7   9. Ausina, Aurtenec. 7.2   10. LeDuc, Oviedo CB 7.1

Assists Per Game

Federico BAVOSI   Andorra   (184-PG-81)   Avg: 4.5

1. Bavosi, Andorra 4.5   2. Llorente, Avila 4.0   3. Bassas, Prat J. 3.8   4. Ibargutxi, Lan M. 3.6   5. Alvarado, Gandia B. 3.6   6. Creus, Barca R. 3.5   7. Ugrinoski, Las R. 3.4   8. Vilanova, Prat J. 3.3   9. Carrera, Aurtenec. 3.1   10. Guigou, Tenerife 3.0

Steals Per Game

Joan FANER   Plasencia   (176-PG-90)   Avg: 3.7

1. Faner, Plasencia 3.7   2. Ott, Lan M. 3.4   3. Arcelus, Aurtenec. 2.3   4. Lazaro, Coruna 2.1   5. Smith, Coruna 2.0   6. Perez, Barca R. 1.9   7. Guigou, Tenerife 1.9   8. Alvarado, Gandia B. 1.8   9. Bavosi, Andorra 1.7   10. Torres, Andorra 1.6

Blocks Per Game

Papa MBAYE   Barca R.   (209-C-90)   Avg: 1.7

1. Mbaye, Barca R. 1.7   2. Thompson, Aurtene. 1.5   3. Todorovic, Prat J. 1.4   4. Joseph, Avila 1.3   5. Elias, Tenerife 1.3   6. Marti, Prat J. 1.3   7. Pantin, Ourense 1.2   8. Miller, Gandia B. 1.1   9. Diarra, Oviedo CB 1.0   10. Olaizola, Lan M. 1.0

Standings - LEB Silver

LEB Silver Standings

1. Andorra 8-2   2. Aurteneche M. 8-3   3. Barca Regal II 7-3   4. Ourense 7-3   5. Coruna 7-3   6. Prat Juventud 6-5   7. Las Rozas 5-5   8. Avila 5-5   9. Oviedo CB 3-7   10. Tenerife 3-7   11. Lan Mobel ISB 3-7   12. Gandia Basquet 2-8   13. Plasencia 2-8

EuroCup: Gran Canaria edge Skyliners, unable to reach Last 16 - by Eurobasket News
Gran Canaria - Skyliners 71:58

Gran Canaria finished their EuroCup regular season campaign with the win. They held off visiting Skyliners but it did not help the Spaniards to reach the next round. Banvit beat Lokomotiv Kuban in another game in Group E as both teams advanced into the next round leaving Gran Canaria without EuroCup Last 16. Skyliners in the meantime suffered the sixth loss in a row.
The German team secured a brave start as they led by five points after ten minutes of action. But Gran Canaria managed to erase the deficit and recorded a 30:28 halftime lead. Gran Canaria maintained a defensive pressure in the third term and cleared off to an 8-point lead with one quarter remaining 49:41. Skyliners never threatened the margin in the final frame as the hosts cruised to the victory. Spencer Nelson (203-F-80, college: Utah St.) posted 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for Gran Canaria. Marquez Haynes (191-G-86, college: Texas Arlington) and Javier Beiran (200-F-87) had 9 points each for the winners. Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) answered with 27 points for Skyliners. Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) netted 16 points and grabbed 16 boards in defeat.

Gran Canaria: Spencer Nelson 15, Marquez Haynes 9, Javier Beiran 9
Skyliners: Jimmy McKinney 27, Jermareo Davidson 16+16 boards


JC Navarro to miss a month - by Eurobasket News
Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) will be out of action for one month. The Barcelonas superstar struggles with foot injury (plantar fasciitis) and he was able to play just 8 minutes last weekend against Caja Laboral (Liga Endesa). If the recovery goes as expected, Navarro should be fit to play when Barcelona begins Top 16 action on January 18. Juan Carlos Navarro averages 12.1 points and 3.1 assists in 8 Eurolegaue games this season. He has almost the same numbers for 12 games in Spain. Navarro recently extended contract with Barca until 2016. Juan Carlos Navarro is also a former world champion with the Spanish national team, an achievement he picked up in 2006. Additionally Navarro won two European championships gold medals and was the MVP this past summer at EuroBasket 2011. Navarro spent all but one season with his hometown club with whom he has won the Euroleague twice as well as six Spanish League titles, five Spanish Kings Cups and the 1999 Korac Cup. On an individual note, he was the 2008-09 Euroleague MVP, the 2010 Euroleague Final Four MVP and been named to the All-Euroleague First Team a record five times. Regal Barca will host Galatasaray tomorrow.

Bismack Biyombo pays off Spanish club Fuenlabrada, signs with Charlotte Bobcats - by Eurobasket News
Forward Bismack Biyombo (6'10''-C-92) signed a rookie contract with the Charlotte Bobcats hours after agreeing to pay a buyout clause to release him from his contract with Spanish club Fuenlabrada.

Coach Paul Silas said Biyombo would begin to practice Tuesday and would play in Thursday night's game at Atlanta.

Fuenlabrada said Monday that Biyombo had agreed to pay the $1.5 million clause that will free him from the remaining two years of his contract. The Bobcats agreed to pay $525,000 of that - the most allowed by international rules - according to Rod Higgins, the Bobcats' director of basketball operations.

Bobcats owner Michael Jordan had agreed to pay that before the team drafted Biyombo.

Knicks sign veteran guard Davis: Baron Davis' desire to play in New York outweighed the chance to play with Kobe Bryant or LeBron James.

The veteran point guard signed with the Knicks on Monday, passing up a chance to join stronger teams because he said he always saw himself playing at Madison Square Garden.

'I always kind of rise to the occasion when I'm playing against the Knicks and playing in the Garden,' Davis said. 'It's just an unbelievable opportunity, and I'm ready to accept the challenge.'

Not yet, however. A herniated disc in his back has sidelined Davis all preseason, an injury he's heard could keep him out eight to 10 weeks. But Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni said the team is willing to wait for the chance to add a veteran to an inexperienced starting backcourt.

'The first order of business is just get him healthy and make sure that when he is able to play, he's ready to go,' D'Antoni said. 'If we get to that point, which hopefully we will, we've got one of the better point guards in the league, just adds another weapon to already a pretty good group.'

Nuggets agree to 5-year deal with Afflalo: The Denver Nuggets have agreed to a five-year deal with restricted free agent Arron Afflalo.

The Denver Post first reported Monday night the guard had agreed to a contract that could be worth up to $43 million.

Nuggets coach George Karl was preaching the importance of bringing back Afflalo, the player he considered the 'glue guy' of the team.

Pacers send Rush to Golden State for Amundson: The Golden State Warriors have completed a trade sending forward Lou Amundson to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for guard Brandon Rush.

The teams announced the trade Monday.

Kings void Hayes' contract after failed physical: The Sacramento Kings have voided Chuck Hayes' $21.3 million, four-year contract after they say he failed a physical.

The team announced last week that a heart exam on the new Kings big man showed an abnormality that would require further testing. That came days after the former Houston Rockets forward-center signed a contract with Sacramento.

Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

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TUNISIA

26th ACCM: Union Bank lost woefully to Etoile du Sahel 69-113 - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria last hope of making progress in the final round of the 26th Africa Champions Cup for Men Union Bank basketball club was roundly beaten by Etoile Sportive du Sahel basketball club of Tunisia by 69-113.

The scandalous lost saw Union Bank losing in all four quarters by 15-24, 21-35, 17-29 and 16-25 was the worst defeat the Nigerian side has suffered in any competition.

Union Bank who out-rebounded the Tunisian were punished in other department of the game as they could only muster 13 assists to Etoile 22 while they gave away 24 points through 12 turn-over to Etoile 6 turn-over.

The Stallion Boys as the Nigerian side are often referred to also trailed their opponent in field-goals and free-throw two-point field goal 24/51-28/41; three-point field goal 2/14-14/26; and in free throw where they had good performance with 15 of 19 free throw attempt made to Etoile 15 of 17 made.

Etoile Omar Mouhli led the floor with 20 points and 6 assists, Macram Ben Romdhane also scored 20 points and grabbed 4 rebounds Ersid Ljuca had 14 points and 3 rebounds while the trio of Willie Kemp, Radhouane Slimane and Mahmoud Toumi contributing 14, 13 and 12 points respectively to see their goes through to the semi-finals.


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TURKEY

EuroCup: Banvit edge Lokomotiv, both enter Last 16 - by Eurobasket News
Banvit - Lokomotiv Kuban 79:55

Banvit overcame Lokomotiv Kuban at home court in the sixth round of EuroCup regular season. The victory allowed the hosts to clinch the top position in Group E. Charles Davis (202-F-84, college: Alabama) notched 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists to pace the winners. Lokomotiv Kuban finished in the second place after the loss.
Banvit grabbed the initiative right from the start. The Turkish team posted a 22:14 lead ten minutes into the game. Banvit maintained the lead throughout the second frame posting a 42:29 halftime advantage. Things did not change after the big break. Banvit boosted the gap taking a 19-point buffer and stayed on the winning track till the final buzzer. Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81) accounted for 14 points, while Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) finished with 11 points for the winners. Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) answered with 12 points for Lokomotiv. Maxim Grigoryev (195-G-90), Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) and Lionel Chalmers (184-G-80, college: Xavier) knocked down 9 points each in the loss.

Banvit: Charles Davis 15, Kenan Bajramovic 14, Lance Williams 11
Lokomotiv Kuban: Roderick Blakney 12, Jeremiah Massey 9, Lionel Chalmers 9, Maxim Grigoryev 9


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UBA

URBL Stats Leaders

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Jermaine BARNES   (194-G/F-82)   Avg: 29.5

1. Barnes, GIE M. 29.5   2. Canady Jr., Atlan. 25.0   3. Williams, GIE M. 24.0   4. Blackmon, Houst. 23.5   5. Sims, Georgia L. 23.0   6. Williams, Georgia 23.0   7. Jennings, Atlan. 22.5   8. Baker, Cleveland H. 20.7   9. Cantrell, GIE M. 20.5   10. Levy, Cleveland H. 20.0

Rebounds Per Game

Jermaine DAILEY   USA   (203-F-86)   Avg: 17

1. Dailey, Georgia L. 17.0   2. White, Tennesse. 13.5   3. Corpening, S.Gen. 13.0   4. Green, GIE M. 12.5   5. Morning, C.Tex. 12.0   6. Hampton, Tennesse. 11.8   7. Joseph, S.Generals 11.0   8. Canady Jr., Atlan. 11.0   9. Eichelberger, GIE 9.5   10. Henderson, Houst. 8.5

Assists Per Game

DeAndre BRAY   (168-G-85)   Avg: 13

1. Bray, S.Generals 13.0   2. Belton, Atlanta A. 8.5   3. Cantrell, GIE M. 8.0   4. Barnes, GIE M. 7.0   5. Sims, Georgia L. 6.5   6. Bryant, Austin K. 6.0   7. Ragsdale, GIE M. 5.7   8. Glover, C.Texas C. 5.5   9. Baker, Cleveland H. 5.3   10. Brown, Houston E. 5.0

Steals Per Game

Freddie WILLIAMS   (188-G-87)   Avg: 5.3

1. Williams, GIE M. 5.3   2. Bray, S.Generals 5.0   3. Barnes, GIE M. 3.8   4. Jennings, Atlan. 2.5   5. Glover, C.Texas C. 2.5   6. Blackmon, Houst. 2.0   7. Morning, C.Tex. 2.0   8. Davis, Atlanta A. 2.0   9. Antoine, Atlanta A. 2.0   10. Ragsdale, GIE M. 2.0

Blocks Per Game

Chad EICHELBERGER   (206-F-82)   Avg: 0

1. Eichelberger, GIE 0.0   2. Adkins, Austin K. 0.0   3. Edwards, Clevelan. 0.0   4. Russell, Georgia L. 0.0   5. Eastland, Austin K. 0.0   6. Ragsdale, GIE M. 0.0   7. Davis, Atlanta A. 0.0   8. Omotayo, Georg. 0.0   9. Danzey, Georgia L. 0.0   10. Mayshack, Atlan. 0.0

Standings

UBA Standings

Eastern  1. Buckeye B. 3-0   2. Cincinnati S. 2-0   3. S.Ohio K. 2-1   4. SE Hoopstars 2-1   5. Cleveland R. 1-3   6. Louisville S. 0-0   7. Ohio R. 0-1   8. Midwest M. 0-3  Southern  1. GIE Morrow D. 5-0   2. Tennessee D. 3-2   3. Georgia L. 2-2   4. Atlanta A. 2-2   5. S.Generals 1-1  Western  1. C.Texas C. 1-1   2. Cleveland H. 1-2   3. DFW Warriors 0-0   4. Austin K. 0-1   5. Houston E. 0-2  D-League  1. Queen City G. 0-0   2. Nashville M. 0-2  Traveling Teams  1. Team Japan 0-0   2. Dallas Stars 0-1

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UKRAINE

EuroCup: BCM Gravelines wins Group A despite the loss in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
BC Donetsk - Gravelines 80:69

BCM Gravelines became Eurocup regular season Group A champion despite an 80:69 road loss against BC Donetsk in Ukraine. The latter however handed the French side their first loss in the tournament.
The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter. A layup by Dmytro Gliebov ignited a 9-0 run in which Curry had 5 points to put Donetsk back ahead, 28-24. Ramel Curry , Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) and Vule Avdalovic (189-PG-81, agency: Beo Basket) led a game-breaking 20-0 run that gave Donetsk a 63:46 margin late in the third quarter
BC Donetsk dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Gravelines-Dunkerque's 26. Ramel Curry (192-G-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) scored 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Ivan Radenovic chipped in 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest and Jackson netted 13. The best for the losing side was J.R. J.R. Reynolds (188-G-84, agency: SportsTalent, college: Virginia) with 17 points and 6 rebounds. J.K. Edwards (202-C/F-82, agency: Hoops Ambassadors, college: UNLV) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds, while Rudy Jomby (197-G/F-88) and Yannick Bokolo (190-G-85) notched 9 apiece.

Gravelines: J.R. Reynolds 17, J.K. Edwards 13, Rudy Jomby 9, Yannick Bokolo 9
BC Donetsk: Ramel Curry 21, Ivan Radenovic 15, Jackson 13, Vule Avdalovic 11


EuroCup: Lietuvos Rytas earn sixth straight win - by Eurobasket News
Azovmash - Lietuvos Rytas 67:74

Lietuvos Rytas finished the EuroCup regular season undefeated. They overcame Azovmash on the road to finish on top of the ladder at 6-0 record. Azovmash suffered the fifth loss in six games played.
Lietuvos Rytas led by a single point at the first break 20:19. Azovmash bounced back in the second frame erasing the deficit. The Ukrainian team surged ahead to post a 36:33 lead at the interval. Lietuvos Rytas shifted the gear after the big break. The Lithuanian side erupted for 28 points in the third quarter to gain a 61:56 advantage with one quarter remaining. Azovmash scored just 11 points in the final stanza and had to surrender at the end. Renaldas Seibutis (196-G-85) accounted for 17 points, while Tyrese Rice (185-PG-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Boston Coll.) contributed 16 points and 7 assists for the winners. Artur Drozdov (199-G-80) answered with 18 points for Azovmash. Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) had 24 points in the loss.

Azovmash: Radoslav Rancik 24, Artur Drozdov 16
Lietuvos Rytas: Renaldas Seibutis 17, Tyrese Rice 16, Lawrence Roberts (205-F/C-82, college: Mississippi St.) 15


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UNITED KINGDOM

Happy Holidays! - by Jeremy Bell
Wuz Good World, We've made it to our Christmas Break. Im so excited to go back to the states and see all my family. Having a week that will be filled with love, laughter and joy. Its my favorite time of the year, it allows all of us to come together and celebrate Christ 'caring and sharing'. Aside from that, Basketball has been great!!! My team and I have made plenty improvements as this season moves along. Chemistry has been developing nicely and we enjoying playing together for the completion of our mission 'The Trophies'. Its exciting being on a team where its only one goal, and thats to win. There have been bumps and bruises, but we stay together and pick each other up to keep fighting as a team. We all have similar backgrounds which enable us to relate and get along well on and off the court. Its noticable in our unselfish play and things are starting to click at the right time. After a dreadful road trip game up north to Newcastle, we learn a valuable lesson to seize the moments. And thats just what we've been doing since then! We defeated 3 top teams by 20+ points in Leicester, Glasgow and more importantly Worcester to advance to the BBL Cup Final in January. It will be a rematch game against a great Newcastle team, only we'll be ready to take on this challenge...WE Look Forward 2 It...
Til next time, wishing everyone safe travels over the Holidays & Merry Christmas.
Go Raiders!!! Jeremy Bell



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Women News

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

AUSTRALIA - Women

Round 11 review - by Eurobasket News
The final round of 2011 saw the Canberra Capitals and Townsville Fire finish Round 11 on a high, while the Thunder, Rangers and Boomers will be looking for redemption when 2012 action begins.

The Capitals recorded wins over the AIS and Bulleen, while the Fire defeated Logan and Sydney Uni on the road this weekend.

Bendigo finished their year on a positive note against the Rangers, while the Lightning rolled on overcoming the Waves with ease.


Results/scorers

Canberra Capitals 87 (Marianna Tolo (196-C-89) 21, Jess Bibby 17, Nicole Hunt 15) defeated AIS 69 (Casey Samuels 19, Carley Mijovic 14, Sara Blicavs 7)

Bulleen Boomers 86 (Liz Cambage 23, Alice Kunek 20, Samantha Richards 18) defeated Dandenong Rangers 76 (Steph Cumming 18, Krista Phillips 15, Alison Downie 13)

Townsville Fire 69 (Shanavia Dowdell 15, Micaela Cocks 15, Jess Foley 14) defeated Logan Thunder 61 (Cayla Francis 20, Renae Camino 15, Emma Randall 7)

Townsville Fire 85 (Shanavia Dowdell 26, Jess Foley 17, Rachael Flanagan 14) defeated Sydney Uni Flames 79 (Amy Denson 34, Lauren King 15, Alicia Poto 15)

Bendigo Spirit 92 (Tess Madgen 28, Kelly Wilson 25, Deanna Smith 14) defeated Dandenong Rangers 63 (Krista Phillips 12, Kathleen MacLeod 10)

Adelaide Lightning 78 (Suzy Batkovic 20, Abby Bishop 15, Angela Marino 15) defeated West Coast Waves 57 (Melissa Marsh 12, Rohanee Cox 11, Nikita-Lee Martin 9)

Canberra Capitals 85 (Marianna Tolo 22, Brigitte Ardossi 18, Nicole Hunt 14) defeated Bulleen Boomers 78 (Liz Cambage 21, Sam Richards 21, Rachel Jarry 18)

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

Shanavia Dowdell claims Round 11 Player of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Shanavia Dowdell (188-F-87, agency: LBM Management, college: Louisiana Tech) of the Townsville Fire has been named WNBL Player of the Week for Round 11 of the 2011/12 WNBL season.

In her first WNBL season, the import forward was instrumental in helping her side record two road victories to finish 2011 full of momentum, against Queensland rival the Logan Thunder on Friday, then just 24 hours later against the Sydney Uni Flames in Sydney.

This week Dowdell narrowly edged out Marianna Tolo of the Canberra Capitals for the award.

In the Fires 69-61 victory over the Logan Thunder, despite being hampered throughout by foul trouble, Dowdell recorded a double-double of 15 points and ten rebounds.

Then on Saturday night, Dowdell put on an outstanding performance in her sides 85-79 victory against the Sydney Uni Flames in Sydney.

The 24-year-old put together a near-perfect shooting performance connecting on ten of her 11 field goal attempts, at 91 per cent accuracy, and all six of her free-throw attempts to finish with a season-high 26 points.

It was also her second-consecutive double-double of the weekend, pulling down 13 rebounds in the contest.

Dowdell is currently equal-third in the league in rebounding, averaging ten per game, while also sitting sixth overall in the league in scoring, averaging 17.7 points per game for a Fire side that currently sits fourth on the ladder with a record of 10-5.

Canberras Marianna Tolo also led her side to two Round 11 victories, against both the AIS, and Bulleen Boomers in a re-match of last years Grand Final. Tolo scored 21 points at 70 per cent field goal accuracy against the AIS, before backing up with 22 points, ten rebound and five blocks against the Boomers.

Other Player of the Week contenders included Kelly Wilson (Bendigo Spirit), Liz Cambage (Bulleen Boomers), Suzy Batkovic (Adelaide Lightning), Amy Denson (Sydney Uni Flames) and Tess Madgen (Bendigo Spirit).


2011/12 WNBL Player of the Week Winners

Round 1 Samantha Richards (Bulleen Boomers)

Round 2 Amy Denson (Sydney Uni Flames)

Round 3 Belinda Snell (Sydney Uni Flames)

Round 4 Amy Denson (Sydney Uni Flames)

Round 5 Kathleen MacLeod (Dandenong Rangers)

Round 6 Suzy Batkovic (Adelaide Lightning)

Round 7 Liz Cambage (Bulleen Boomers)

Round 8 Suzy Batkovic (Adelaide Lightning) and Kathleen MacLeod (Dandenong Rangers)

Round 9 Belinda Snell (Sydney Uni Flames)

Round 10 Rachel Jarry (Bulleen Boomers)

Round 11 Shanavia Dowdell (Townsville Fire)

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

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CROATIA - Women

Gambiraza returns to Zadar - by Zeljko Zule
A-1 League, Round 10: Sibenik Jolly-Medvescak 53-61: The visiting team never trailed and led by as many as 15 points at the halfime. The had their largest lead of the game at 45-25 early in the third quarter. Ivana Tikvic scored 19 points and Iva Borovic added 16 points. Ana Semren led Sibenik with 19 points and Antonija Misura socred 15 points.
(Cigic 4, Chiabov 1, Benic 4, Misura 15, Semren 19, Ivankovic 7, Vrsaljko 3 Begic 2, Tikvic 19, Borovic 16, Seda 5, Todoric 8, Majstorovic 6, Rados 5).
Zadar-Pleter 89-73: Zadar trailed by one point at the halftime, but they pulled away 67-58 going into the final quarter. Martina Gambiraza (176-G-82) scored 20 points in her debut, Lara Nikpalj added 20 points too and Lara Majstorovic finished with 11 points. Pleter had five scorers in double digits. Aldijana Iriskic posted 20 points, Katarina Mrcela scored 15 points, Ana Jerkic and Mirela Barac both had 11 points and Martina Tomic finished with 10 points.
(Sesar 5, Gambiraza 20, Perica 16, Balic 7, Nikpalj 20, Erslan 6, Majstorovic 11, Bilic 4 Iriskic 20, Tomic 10, Jerkic 11, Mrcela 15, Masic 5, Serdar 7, Jazic 4, Barac 11)
Rockwool Pula-Novi Zagreb 63-68: With the game tied at 59-59, Pula lost the ball and Mirna Mazic made six straight free trows for Zagreb. She finished with 31 points, Ana Cacic added 13 points and national team member Anda Jelavic scored 6 points in her debut before she fouled out. Pula was led by Tijana Valentic with 20 points, Martina Zubak posted 16 points, Tea Dikic scored 10 points and Maja Ramljak grabbed 8 rebounds in just 11 minutes before she injured.
(Dikic 10, Cvjetkovic 4, Zubak 16, Valentic 20, Ramljak 2, Jakelic 11 Juric 5, Cacic 13, Jelavic 6, Matic 7, Mazic 31, Krajacic 4, Brkljacic 2)
Agram-Studenac Omis 53-72: After trailing 28-36 at the break, Studenac outscored the home team 28-9 in the third quarter. Both teams had only five scorers. Katarina Puljic posted 22 points, Ivana Seric scored 16 points, Ivana Vrvilo added 15 points and Ana Parunov had 13 points for Omis. Agram was led by Nina Premasunac with 17 points and Ema Mestrovic and Vera Saric-Alatovic netted 13 points each.
(Garic 5, Vukicevic 5, Mestrovic 13, Saric-Alatovic 13, Premasunac 17 Puljic 22, Vrvilo 15, Seric 16, Parunov 13, Dilber 6)
Croatia 2006-Dubrava 98-52: Croatia won in all four quarters. Ruzica Dzankic finished with 20 points, Alja Butina had 18 points, Nikolina Ilijanic added 13 points and Anja Skara posted 12 points. Winless Dubrava was led by Anja Resetar with 19 points and Ana Karaga scored 17 points.
(Butina 18, Giljanovic 2, Vukadin 9, Dzankic 20, Ilijanic 13, Mamic 4, Nizic 6, Kelava 6, Skara 12 Ples 2, Suster 4, Karaga 17, Vukovic 4, Raguz 2, Resetar 19, Borenovic 4)

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HUNGARY - Women

Standings - Women

A Standings

1. UNIQA Eurol. 14-0   2. UNI SEAT 12-1   3. Pecs 2010 11-2   4. ZTE 10-4   5. Nanette FTC 9-4   6. Bajai NKK 6-7   7. DKSK 5-8   8. Vasas 4-9   9. Cegledi EKK 4-9   10. Atomeromu 3-10   11. BSE-FCSM 1-13   12. ELTE-BEAC 1-13

Stats Leaders - Women

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Maja SCEKIC   Bajai NKK   (170-G-87)   Avg: 17.6

1. Scekic, Bajai NKK 17.6   2. Hadzovic, DKSK 17.2   3. Quigley, Pecs 2010 16.5   4. Murphy, Pecs 2010 16.1   5. Teilane, Vasas 14.7   6. Skoric, DKSK 14.6   7. Orban, Cegledi EKK 14.4   8. Rasheed, UNI S. 14.1   9. Cvetanovic, Atome. 13.8   10. Vida, Nanette FTC 12.8

Rebounds Per Game

Milica CVETANOVIC   Atome.   (195-C-86)   Avg: 8.4

1. Cvetanovic, Atome. 8.4   2. Farkasinszki, DKSK 8.2   3. Teilane, Vasas 8.0   4. Nagy, UNI S. 8.0   5. Krnjic, UNIQA E. 7.9   6. Murphy, Pecs 2010 7.5   7. Turoczi, Nanette 7.5   8. Horvath, Pecs 2010 6.4   9. Hollingswort., UNI 6.3   10. Szabo, Bajai NKK 6.3

Assists Per Game

Iva CIGLAR   UNI S.   (170-G-85)   Avg: 4.5

1. Ciglar, UNI S. 4.5   2. Cymmer, Cegledi 4.0   3. Englert, Nanette 3.8   4. Fegyverneky, UNIQ. 3.8   5. Nagy, UNI S. 3.6   6. Szlimak, Nanette 3.6   7. Torok, Pecs 2010 3.6   8. Medgyessy, Atome. 3.2   9. Bukovszki, ZTE 3.2   10. Quigley, Pecs 20. 3.2

Steals Per Game

Maja SCEKIC   Bajai NKK   (170-G-87)   Avg: 3.9

1. Scekic, Bajai NKK 3.9   2. Csicsai, EL. 3.8   3. Szabo, Bajai NKK 3.7   4. Theodoran, Bajai N. 3.5   5. Horvath, Pecs 2010 3.0   6. Cymmer, Cegledi 3.0   7. Pal, Vasas 2.8   8. Orso, BSE-. 2.7   9. Bukovszki, ZTE 2.7   10. Englert, Nanette 2.7

Blocks Per Game

Anita TEILANE   Vasas   (196-C-85)   Avg: 3.5

1. Teilane, Vasas 3.5   2. Bagi, BSE-. 1.1   3. Cvetanovic, Atome. 1.0   4. Czukor, ZTE 0.9   5. Zavecz, UNIQA E. 0.9   6. Fejes, Atomeromu 0.9   7. Fegyverneky, UNIQ. 0.7   8. Nagy, UNI S. 0.6   9. Sujanova, UNI S. 0.6   10. Horvath, EL. 0.6

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NAIA - Women

Indiana Wesleyan tops NAIA Division II women's basketball coaches' Top 25 poll - by Eurobasket News
For the third time in as many weeks, Indiana Wesleyan unanimously topped the NAIA Division II Women's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll, the national office announced Monday. The Wildcats, who are off to an 11-0 start, racked up 14 first-place votes for 374 points.

College of the Ozarks (Mo.) took over at No. 2 with 355 points after spending last week at No. 4. Following an 89-87 setback to seventh-ranked Concordia (Neb.), Briar Cliff (Iowa) dropped back to third with 350 points. Davenport (Mich.) shifted up to fourth with 342 points to separate itself from Morningside (Iowa), who is listed fifth with 320 points.

Nine teams retained their position among the Top 25, four of which were in the top 10: Indiana Wesleyan, Morningside, Concordia and No. 8 Hastings (Neb.). Seven squads improved their rank, highlighted by a three-spot jump by Saint Mary (Neb.) from 19th to 16th. Indiana Southeast took the biggest tumble backwards, dropping from No. 20 to 25.

Corban (Ore.) and St. Thomas (Fla.) return to the poll at Nos. 22 and 23 (tie), respectively, while No. 23 (tie) Daemen (N.Y.) makes its debut on the poll this season. The trio of newcomers replaces previously listed No. 22 Cornerstone (Mich.), No. 24 Warner Pacific (Ore.) and No. 25 Southwestern (Kan.).

The Great Plains Athletic Conference placed the most teams of any league in the poll with five: Briar Cliff, Morningside, Concordia, Hastings and No. 20 Northwestern (Iowa). The Mid-Central College Conference was second with four ranked teams: Indiana Wesleyan, No. 10 Bethel (Ind.), No. 17 Grace (Ind.) and No. 23 Marian (Ind.).

The poll was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each of the conferences and independents. The next poll will be announced on Jan. 9, 2012.

Notes: (All information as of the 1999 2000 season) Indiana Wesleyan has now appeared at the top of the poll on 17 occasions, ranking second all-time to Morningsides (Iowa) 19 No. 1 rankings Hastings (Neb.) has appeared at No. 1 a total of 13 times, followed by Saint Francis (Ind.) and Davenport (Mich.), who have both made a dozen No. 1 appearances There have been 14 different teams to garner the No. 1 ranking all-time.


RANK LAST WEEK SCHOOL (1ST PLACE VOTES) 2011 RECORD TOTAL POINTS
1 1 Indiana Wesleyan (14) 11-0 374
2 4 College of the Ozarks (Mo.) 9-1 355
3 2 Briar Cliff (Iowa) 10-2 350
4 5 Davenport (Mich.) 9-2 342
5 5 Morningside (Iowa) 9-3 320
6 3 Concordia (Mich.) 11-1 319
7 7 Concordia (Neb.) 10-1 305
8 8 Hastings (Neb.) 9-2 280
9 10 Eastern Oregon 9-2 271
10 9 Bethel (Ind.) 11-2 263
11 11 Mount Mercy (Iowa) 8-4 258
12 12 Kansas Wesleyan 8-4 237
13 13 Montreat (N.C.) 9-2 227
14 14 Grand View (Iowa) 9-4 215
15 16 Jamestown (N.D.) 13-1 177
16 19 Saint Mary (Neb.) 11-3 165
16 17 Grace (Ind.) 9-4 165
18 15 Cardinal Stritch (Wis.) 8-4 162
19 18 Union (Ky.) 9-2 157
20 20 Northwestern (Iowa) 7-4 154
21 23 Marian (Ind.) 9-2 125
22 RV Corban (Ore.) 6-4 123
23 RV Daemen (N.Y.) 9-1 81
23 RV St. Thomas (Fla.) 7-2 81
25 20 Indiana Southeast 8-4 66

Others receiving votes: Tennessee Wesleyan 60; Oregon Tech 56; Friends (Kan.) 52; Siena Heights (Mich.) 52; Saint Francis (Ind.) 52; Ave Maria (Fla.) 17; Cornerstone (Mich.) 16; Southwestern (Kan.) 15; Taylor (Ind.) 7; Roberts Wesleyan (N.Y.) 6; Warner Pacific (Ore.) 6; Milligan (Tenn.) 4; Southern Oregon 3; Aquinas (Mich.) 1; Mayville State (N.D.) 1; Huntington (Ind.) 1; Mount Vernon Nazarene (Ohio) 1; Cal State San Marcos 1; Doane (Neb.) 1.

*Courtesy of http://naia.cstv.com

Oklahoma City unanimous No. 1 in NAIA Division I women's basketball coaches' Top 25 poll - by Eurobasket News
Oklahoma City was unanimously selected as the No. 1 team in the second edition of the 2011 - 12 NAIA Division I Women's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll, the national office announced Monday. The 7-0 Stars occupy the top spot for the second time in as many weeks thanks to 11 first-place votes for 281 points.

Union (Tenn.) remained in the No. 2 spot for the third-straight poll with 272 points. The remainder of the top five shuffled in rank as then-No. 3 Azusa Pacific (Calif.) was handed back-to-back losses. Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) jumped up to third with 263 points, followed by No. 4 Lewis-Clark State (Idaho) with 252 points and No. 5 Westmont (Calif.) with 243 points.

Campbellsville (Ky.) and Lindsey Wilson (Ky.) were the victors over the defending national champion Cougars at the Citizens Bank and Trust Holiday Hoops Classic held over the weekend and were rewarded by moving up the poll. The Lady Tigers improved from 14th to 12th, while the Blue Raiders slid from 25th to 22nd. Azusa Pacific plummeted eight spots, the most suffered by any team among the Top 25, to No. 11.

Lindsey Wilson's three-spot jump was matched by No. 10 Saint Xavier (Ill.) as the best moves up in the poll. Ninth-ranked Lee (Tenn.) No. 18 Shorter (Ga.) and No. 24 Rocky Mountain (Mont.) all maintained their previous rank.

Checking in at No. 25, Rogers State (Okla.) returns to the poll after being unlisted in the first regular-season edition. The Hillcats replace Belhaven (Miss.), who occupied the No. 23 spot a week ago.

Ten of the 12 Division I women's basketball conferences and independents are represented throughout the Top 25, led by five squads from the Mid-South Conference: No. 6 Shawnee State (Ohio), Campbellsville, No. 14 Cumberlands (Ky.), No. 20 Georgetown (Ky.) and Lindsey Wilson (Ky.). The Sooner Athletic Conference boasted four ranked squads.

The poll was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each of the conferences and independents. The next regular-season Top 25 poll will be announced on Jan. 9.

Notes: (All information dates back to 1999 - 2000 season) Oklahoma City earned its 37th No. 1-ranking, which ranks second all-time behind Union's (Tenn.) 53 ... Oklahoma City joins Azusa Pacific (Calif.) and Vanguard (Calif.) as the only other teams that have owned the No. 1 spot in the last five years outside of Union's 48- reign on top that lasted from Oct. 31, 2007 - March 9, 2011 ... Four programs have topped the poll 10-or more times: Union (53), Oklahoma City (37), Vanguard (27) and Southern Nazarene (Okla.) (15) ... There have been six preseason No. 1s that have gone on to win the national championship with the last happening in 2010 ... Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.), Oklahoma City and Union have been listed in all 143 polls since the start of the 1999 - 2000 season ... Vanguard has appeared in 109-consecutive polls ... Union and Vanguard are the only programs that have spent an entire season ranked No. 1 (Union: 2007 - 08, 2008 - 09, 2009 - 10, 2010 - 11) (Vanguard: 2005 - 06, 2006 - 07).


RANK LAST WEEK SCHOOL (1ST PLACE VOTES) 2011 RECORD TOTAL POINTS
1 1 Oklahoma City (11) 7-0 281
2 2 Union (Tenn.) 11-1 272
3 4 Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) 9-2 263
4 5 Lewis-Clark State (Idaho) 9-1 252
5 6 Westmont (Calif.) 10-1 243
6 7 Shawnee State (Ohio) 10-2 233
7 8 Langston (Okla.) 9-0 226
8 10 Vanguard (Calif.) 6-1 215
9 9 Lee (Tenn.) 9-1 207
10 13 Saint Xavier (Ill.) 9-2 195
11 3 Azusa Pacific (Calif.) 5-3 192
12 14 Campbellsville (Ky.) 9-3 188
13 11 Olivet Nazarene (Ill.) 10-2 170
14 15 Cumberlands (Ky.) 10-1 169
15 16 Southern Nazarene (Okla.) 6-3 156
16 17 Xavier (La.) 7-3 143
17 19 Lubbock Christian (Texas) 6-3 136
18 18 Shorter (Ga.) 9-1 128
19 12 Bethel (Tenn.) 6-4 112
20 21 Georgetown (Ky.) 10-3 102
21 22 Robert Morris (Ill.) 9-1 100
22 25 Lindsey Wilson (Ky.) 8-3 89
23 20 Columbia (Mo.) 8-4 86
24 24 Rocky Mountain (Mont.) 10-2 68
25 RV Rogers State (Okla.) 9-3 52

Others receiving votes: William Woods (Mo.) 46; Biola (Calif.) 39; Loyola (La.) 32; Avila (Mo.) 22; Belhaven (Miss.) 19; LSU Shreveport (La.) 12; Lyon (Ark.) 6; Park (Mo.) 5; Westminster (Utah) 4; Benedictine (Kan.) 3; St. Gregory's (Okla.) 3; Montana Western 1; The Master's (Calif.) 1; St. Francis (Ill.) 1; St. Catharine (Ky.) 1.

Courtesy of http://naia.cstv.com

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NCAA1 - Women

Gonzaga women upset No. 13 Georgia 71-68 - by Eurobasket News
Haiden Palmer's (5'8''-G) 3-pointer with two-tenths of a second left gave Gonzaga a 71-68 victory over No. 13 Georgia in a Las Vegas Holiday Hoops Classic game Monday night.
The Bulldogs never led in the game until Palmer pulled up just behind the top of the key and made her 3-pointer to cap a 22-4 run that ended the game. Palmer had 13 of her 22 points during the closing run.

'She's had a great year,' Gonzaga coach Kelly Graves said. 'She's been our most consistent player up to this point. In fact, (Palmer) was announced today as the WCC Player of the Week for her performance last week. So this wasn't anything new but, boy, she did it on a big stage and I'm really proud of her, happy for her.'

The Lady Bulldogs built an eight-point halftime lead to 64-49 before Gonzaga went on its game-ending run.

'The problem tonight was just execution coming down the stretch,' said Georgia coach Andy Landers. 'I thought we played weak and passive; just got careless the last six minutes of the basketball game and Gonzaga stepped up and took advantage of us. '

Gonzaga scored the first 10 points of the burst, which began with Palmer's jumper. She had eight of the run's first 10 points and allowed Gonzaga to erode Georgia's lead to single digits.

Taelor Karr's 3-pointer with 30 seconds left made it 68-66 Georgia. The Zags tied the game moments later on Palmer's basket.

The Lady Bulldogs had a chance to take the lead with 9 seconds left, but James missed both of her free-throw attempts and Gonzaga then grabbed a rebound that led to Palmer's game-winning basket.

'Like I told them after the game, sometimes tough times reveal character, and that's what happened today,' Graves said. 'I thought we showed a lot of character. We could've quit, thinking it's not our game. We had a couple players that didn't play like they typically do, but they didn't (give up). They were resilient, hung in there and defensively made some plays.'

Katelan Redmon (6'1''-G/F-88) led Gonzaga (9-2) with 23 points and 10 rebounds. She hit 10 of her 14 shot attempts.

Georgia (8-2) was led by Jasmine Hassell (6'2''-F-91) with 21 points while Anne Marie Armstrong (6'3''-G/F-91) had 15 and Jasmine James scored 13 points.

'It was a game we played extremely well in for 33 minutes; I mean very well, we had the game where we wanted it,' Landers said. 'We played a very good basketball game and then we started turning the basketball over, giving up lay-ups, letting them get to the offensive boards. And we got passive offensively as they got aggressive and bam, you lose when you do that.'

Courtesy of www.mercurynews.com

Baylor women still No. 1 in AP poll after key win - by Eurobasket News
Baylor is still the unanimous choice as the No. 1 team in The Associated Press women's college basketball poll after winning its showdown with No. 2 Connecticut.

The Lady Bears received all 40 first-place votes Monday after edging UConn 66-61 on Sunday night. The Huskies remain second, with Notre Dame, Stanford and Maryland following. The Cardinal host No. 6 Tennessee on Tuesday night, putting their 67-game home winning streak on the line.

Miami, Kentucky, Duke and Texas A&M round out the Top 10. The Hurricanes visit No. 17 Georgetown on Wednesday.

North Carolina had the biggest fall, dropping five places to No. 23 after a 31-point loss to South Carolina.

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

Dyer helps Louisville women beat Washington St - by Eurobasket News
Shawnta Dyer (6'1''-F) scored 16 points and Shoni Schimmel (5'10''-G) added 14 to help No. 14 Louisville beat Washington State 75-71 on Monday night.

Schimmel had eight of her points in the last 2 minutes to help the Cardinals (11-2) secure the victory. Becky Burke (5'11''-G-89) also had 14 points for Louisville, which has won four straight.

'I was really impressed with how Shoni held it together and came through down the stretch for us,' Louisville coach Jeff Walz said.

Ireti Amojo (5'10''-G/F-90) had 22 points to lead Washington State (6-5).

After being down by nine points in the second half, Louisville came back to tie the game at 57 on Cierra Warren's lay-up with 6:16 left. That began a 10-0 run that put the Cardinal up 65-57.

Washington State's Sage Romberg hit a 3-pointer with 12 seconds to cut the lead to two, but a technical foul called on coach June Daugherty for excessive timeouts sealed the win for Louisville.

'We were close, we needed to do the simple things and keep our focus on Schimmel and Becky Burke, and we didn't, and you see what Shoni did to us in the end.' Daugherty said.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Saint Mary's women defeat Oregon State 81-61 - by Eurobasket News
Jackie Nared (6'1''-G) scored 26 points and Jasmine Smith (5'8''-G) added 22 as Saint Mary's endured a second half letdown, but still managed to roll past Oregon State 81-61 Monday night.

Saint Mary's (8-4) shot a blistering 63.6 percent (14 for 22) from 3-point range, including a combined 10 for 17 from Nared and Smith. Saint Mary's erupted for a 10-0 run in the game's first 3 1/2 minutes, propelled by three 3-pointers. Saint Mary's took a 41-21 lead into halftime, but Oregon State began to chip away once the second half began, narrowing the lead 43-32 at the 16:52 mark. The Beavers would not get closer the rest of the way.

Oregon State (9-2) was hampered by 10 for 17 from the free-throw line and outrebounded by Saint Mary's 46-22. Ali Gibson (5'11''-G) led the Beavers with 14 points and added five assists.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com

Penny and Martin lead No. 21 DePaul women past Illinois State - by Eurobasket News
Sophomore Jasmine Penny (6'1''-F) scored a career-high 20 points to help No. 21 DePaul beat Illinois State 73-54 on Monday night.

Anna Martin (5'9''-G) also scored 20 points while Megan Rogowski (5'9''-G) added 11 for DePaul (11-2), which played again without starting forward Keisha Hampton. The senior has been sidelined the last two games with a leg injury.

She also missed Friday's game against Arizona State, ending a run of 113 consecutive starts.

Marley Hall (6'2''-F) scored 14 points and Katie Broadway added 11 for Illinois State (5-5).

DePaul led 36-22 at the half after a lackluster start that saw ISU pull within five with 14:21 left. Two consecutive 3-pointers by Rogowski sparked a DePaul 8-0 run that helped seal the victory.

The Blue Demons will meet Southern Illinois at home on Thursday.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Top 25 - Women

Top 25 Ranking

1. Baylor  2. Connecticut  3. Notre Dame  4. Stanford  5. Maryland  6. Tennessee  7. Miami, FL  8. Kentucky  9. Duke  10. Texas A&M  11. Ohio St.  12. Rutgers  13. Georgia  14. Louisville  15. Texas Tech  16. Penn St.  17. Georgetown  18. Wisc.-Green Bay  19. Delaware  20. Purdue  21. De Paul  22. Texas  23. N.Carolina  24. Nebraska  25. Vanderbilt

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NCAA2 - Women

Clayton State hangs on in win - by Eurobasket News
No. 5 Clayton State (9-1, 1-0 PBC) weathered an early Georgia Southwestern run in the first half and counter punch in the second half before taking home the victory, 66-62.

GSW gave Clayton State everything it could handle during the opening 20 minutes. The Blue & Gold would lead by as many as 10 points before losing a six-point halftime lead. The Lady 'Canes would recover in the second half erasing a 14-point Laker lead.

The Lady 'Canes would tie the game with a minute remaining before dropping the game on Clayton State free throws.

Clayton State had three players score in double figures. Drameka Griggs (5'5''-G-90) (13 points), Brittany Hall (5'9''-G-88) (12 points) and Kayla Mobley (6'0''-C) (12 points) led the Laker attack.

Georgia Southwestern was led by Tania Walters (5'0''-G-87) who had nine points, 11 rebounds and six assists. Terra Branch would lead all Hurricane scorers with 13 points. Forwards Jessica Jones and Adrian Randall both recorded near double-doubles as they tallied 10 points and eight rebounds and 12 points and seven rebounds respectively.

The game's first five minutes were a sloppy affair for both squads as the two combined for 10 turnovers during that span. The Blue & Gold would right the ship after the game's first media time out.

Back-to-back baskets from Randall and Briana Walker (6'0''-F) would give GSW the 9-6 lead with 12 minutes remaining in the half. The GSW defense would hold out as the 'Canes built a lead as big as 10 points.

A 10-point Georgia Southwestern became two points before the Hurricanes pushed it to six points by the end of the first half (32-26).

Defensively, the Hurricanes forced 11 Clayton State turnovers in the half. They also held the Lady Lakers to 10-28 shooting from the field and held a +13 rebounding margin.

It was a balanced attack for the GSW offense in the game's first 20 minutes. Six different Lady Canes scored, and they were led by Jessica Bivins (5'5''-G) with nine points. Walker scored seven points and Jessica Jones six points to round out the first-half scoring.

The Lady Lakers responded with a 15-2 run in the second half's first 5:11 to take a 41-34 lead on 6-8 shooting. The haymaker from Clayton State was weathered by the Lady 'Canes, which saw GSW cut a ten-point Laker lead in half going into the under 10 minute media timeout.

The Lady Lakers would answer the run with one of their own that raised their advantage to 14 points as the visiting team was unable to string together consecutive stops.

GSW would cut the lead to three late in the game before tying it with one minute remaining. Clutch free throw shooting by CSU in the final minute would give the Lady Lakers the victory.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

Wayne State (Mich.) rolls to victory - by Eurobasket News
Stefani Munro (5'7''-G-88) finished with a triple-double as Wayne State (Mich.) (6-3, 2-2 GLIAC) remained unbeaten at home following a 74-56 victory against Ohio Dominican (5-4, 1-4 GLIAC) on Thursday night.

One of four Warriors to score in double figures, Munro totaled 11 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists, achieving career-highs in the latter two figures. She has reached double-digit point totals in six consecutive games.

Phaebre Colbert tied her career-best with 25 points, shooting 12-16 from the field. Juanita Cochran had 14 points, as she and Colbert narrowly missed double-doubles with nine rebounds apiece. Cochran also had five blocks

A 3-pointer by Katy Rasor, who led ODU with 15 points, gave the Panthers their only lead of the contest at 5-4 nearly four minutes into the game. Wayne State then went on a seven-point run and led by as many as 15 in the first half.

The Panthers went on a 10-point run from the end of the half through the beginning of the second to cut into the lead, 34-29 with 18:38 to play.

The Warriors soon regained their double-digit advantage and never led by fewer than five points the rest of the way.

Wayne State (49.2 percent) nearly doubled ODU's shooting percentage (26.3) despite an 0-for-8 showing from 3-point range.

Paige Sickmiller finished with 10 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Deanna Crumpton chipped in seven points and six rebounds.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

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NCAA3 - Women

No. 7 UW-Stevens Point gets easy win - by Eurobasket News
Four players scored in double figures during No. 7 Wisconsin-Stevens Points 71-50 rout of Wisconsin-Whitewater on Wednesday evening.

The Pointers came out of the gates with a 23-2 run through the first 10:34 of the first half, and carried that momentum into halftime with a 38-18 lead.

UW-Whitewhater opened the second half with a 7-1 run through the first 4:20, but the Warhawks could not keep pace, as the Pointers held them to just 32.7 percent from the field for the game.

The Pointers connected on 50 percent of their 3-point attempts. Cassie Brandow and Brooke Allen (5'9''-G) shot 3-4 from behind the arc. Brandow finished with 13 points and Allen added 11. Sam Barber (5'9''-G) led the Pointers in scoring with 17 points on 10-12 shooting from the field. Alyssa Olp chipped in with 10 points.

Emily Bestor (5'7''-G) was the only player to score in double-digits for the Warhawks on the evening, scoring 17.

Courtesy of NCAA (www.ncaa.com)

No. 1 Amherst rolls against Springfield - by Eurobasket News
No. 1 Amherst held Springfield to only eight first-half points, while four of the Lord Jeffs' five starters scored in double figures during Tuesday's 69-26 win over the Pride.

Amherst (8-0) bumped its overall win streak to 27 games and has now won six in a row against Springfield (4-5), as the Jeffs will head into their winter break undefeated for the fifth consecutive year.

Springfields Kelly Slattery opened the game with a layup that gave the Pride their only lead of the night. The Jeffs than used a 17-0 run during a 7:44 stretch to take a commanding 25-4 lead. A driving lay-up by Jackie Renner with less than a minute to play helped Amherst carry a 38-8 advantage into the locker room.

Point guard Shannon Finucane (5'3''-G) buried three early three-pointers and recorded all 11 of her points in the first 6:30. Springfield was 3-for-26 in the first half (.115), including 0-for-6 from long range.

Amherst held a 55-14 lead midway through the second half and held the Pride scoreless during a 4:49 stretch late in the game, but Springfield accounted for the final four points of the night to mark the 69-26 final score.

The Jeffs held a 47-33 rebounding edge and took advantage of 22 Springfield turnovers, while the Pride shot 19.6 percent overall on the night. Tuesday marked the fewest points Amherst had allowed in a game since a 73-23 win against Mount Holyoke in 2010.

Kim Fiorentino (5'8''-G) had 13 points and three steals for Amherst, while Lem Atanga Mccormick (6'0''-F/C) added 13 points and 10 rebounds for her first double double of the season. Caroline Stedman matched Finucanes 11 points along with seven rebounds, two assists and a pair of steals. Forwards Megan Robertson and Bridget Crowley combined for 17 points and had six rebounds apiece.

Courtesy of NCAA (www.ncaa.com)

Top 25 Ranking

Top 25 Ranking

1. Amherst  2. Chicago Univ.  3. George Fox  4. William Pater.  5. Calvin  6. Washington  7. Babson  8. Rochester  9. DePauw  10. Wisc.-Stevens Point  11. Bowdoin  12. Lebanon Valley  13. Illinois Wesleyan  14. Mt.Union  15. Hope, MI  16. Denison  17. Greensboro  18. Thomas More  19. Muhlenberg  20. Colby  21. Wisc.-Whitew.  22. Howard Payne  23. Messiah  24. Kean  25. Wheaton, IL

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PORTUGAL - Women

Jheri Booker: My goal at all times is to win! - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Jheri Booker (183-F, college: Tennessee St.) has the best Scoring Average in the Women Portuguese League and she's imposing respect in every game she plays.
Eurobasket talked with her, trying to understand her ideas about Portuguese Basketball.


Eurobasket: What do you think of the level of Portuguese Basketball?
Jheri Booker: I believe the level of play here in Portugal is good. You have teams with great players and on any given night any team could be victorious.

E: Are you satisfied with your individual results until now?
JB: Statistically I believe that I can improve in all areas. I need to better my rebounding, the number of fouls I receive a game, and remaining consistent across the board.

E: What are your expectations for the rest of the season?
JB: I plan for our team to continue building our chemistry and bettering ourselves on the court. I see CAB Madeira winning continually and playing for the league Cup!

E: Who do you think are the best team and the best player in the league?
JB: I believe there are players that stand out and are dominant (Carla Freitas, Kenyata Shelton, Jennifer Risper, Ty'Myra Davis) there may be others, but I haven't had the opportunity to play against all the teams as of yet.

E: What do you want to fulfill in 2012?
JB: My goal at all times is to win! To do what it takes to help better my teammates and fulfil the wishes of my Coach! I desire to play for the League Cup and am going to do my best to make it happen for my teammates and Coaches! I also plan to continue bettering my game and reach higher heights in my career!

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TURKEY - Women

Besiktas sign Candice Wiggins - by Serkan Ozdemir
Having a nightmare season, Besiktas CT Istanbul started to shuffle things up. Club announced the signing of Candice Wiggins (180-G-87, college: Stanford).

Wiggins participated in the USA Basketball Women's National Team May Training Camp in Las Vegas. She's a part of Minnesota Lynx roster in the WNBA.

In her last Europe season, 24 year old star was in Greece. She helped Sony Athinaikos claim three championships: FIBA EuroCup, Greek Cup and Greek A1 League.

Candice Wiggins passed her medical, and shes expected to play Besiktas CT Istanbul game against Optimum TED Ankara Kolejliler.

Standings - TBBL

TKBL Standings

1. Fenerbahce 8-1   2. Galatasaray 8-1   3. Ceyhan Bld 6-3   4. Kayseri 6-3   5. Samsun 6-3   6. Mersin 4-5   7. Botas 4-5   8. Tarsus Bld 3-6   9. Antakya 3-6   10. Optimum TED 3-6   11. Besiktas 2-7   12. Istanbul Univ. 1-8

Stats Leaders - Women

• PPG
• RPG
• APG
• SPG
• BPG

Points Per Game

Diana TAURASI   Galatasa.   (182-F/G-82)   Avg: 24.1

1. Taurasi, Galatasa. 24.1   2. Lavender, Besiktas 22.7   3. McCoughtry, Fener. 20.9   4. Miller, Samsun 20.9   5. Lacy, Ceyhan Bld 20.6   6. Walker, Ceyhan Bld 20.4   7. Wright, Botas 20.2   8. Smith, Tarsus Bld 20.2   9. Zellous, Mersin 18.8   10. Hodges, Istanbul. 18.6

Rebounds Per Game

Courtney PARIS   Botas   (193-C-87)   Avg: 14.2

1. Paris, Botas 14.2   2. Jackson, Ceyhan B. 11.6   3. Larkins, Mersin 11.3   4. Charles, Galatasa. 10.4   5. Sanders, Kayseri 10.1   6. Appel, Samsun 9.9   7. Walker, Ceyhan Bld 9.4   8. Horasan, Besiktas 9.1   9. Harper, Antakya 9.1   10. Smith, Tarsus Bld 9.0

Assists Per Game

Natasha LACY   Ceyhan Bld   (178-G-85)   Avg: 7.7

1. Lacy, Ceyhan Bld 7.7   2. Kartaltepe Y., Bot. 5.9   3. Vardarli, Fener. 5.4   4. Vandersloot, Besik. 5.2   5. Hodges-Lewis, Kay. 5.0   6. Taylor, Fenerbahce 3.6   7. Torrens, Galatasa. 3.6   8. Miller, Samsun 3.6   9. Bakircioglu, Samsun 3.6   10. Larkins, Mersin 3.5

Steals Per Game

Angel MCCOUGHTRY   Fener.   (185-F-86)   Avg: 2.9

1. McCoughtry, Fener. 2.9   2. Lacy, Ceyhan Bld 2.9   3. Walker, Ceyhan Bld 2.8   4. Bobbitt, Antakya 2.7   5. Robbins, Samsun 2.4   6. Taylor, Fenerbahce 2.4   7. Young, Istanbul. 2.2   8. Jackson, Ceyhan B. 2.1   9. Kartaltepe Y., Bot. 2.0   10. Ajavon, Optimum 1.9

Blocks Per Game

LaToya SANDERS   Kayseri   (191-PF-86)   Avg: 2.1

1. Sanders, Kayseri 2.1   2. Tamane, Fenerbahce 1.4   3. Adair, Tarsus Bld 1.3   4. Appel, Samsun 1.2   5. Smith, Tarsus Bld 1.1   6. Harris, Besiktas 1.0   7. Fowles, Galatasa. 1.0   8. Walker, Ceyhan Bld 0.9   9. Charles, Galatasa. 0.9   10. Ayim, Istanbul Un. 0.9

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UBA - Women

BCF Elfic Fribourg (Switzerland) signs Lakeia Stokes - by UBA media

Lakeia Stokes (6'0''-G-82, college: Clemson) has reportedly agreed on terms of contract with BCF Elfic Fribourg Basket (Switzerland).

The American guard is currently playing with the Metro Atlanta Sparks of the WUBA. Shes averaged 22.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game with the Sparks.

Stokes is currently 1st the WUBA in scoring (6.5) and blocks (3.0).

Stokes was the fouth selection of the 2011 WUBA draft. Prior to joining the WUBA Stokes was a standout at Clemson University were she was named All-ACC as a senior with an average of 18.0ppg.