Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 12/29/2011

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Men News

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ABA

Jersey Express sign new coach, take on the Top Ballerz friday - by Gianni Pascucci
On Friday, December 30th, the Jersey Express will host the Connecticut TopBallerz in a Battle of division leaders, in a Pre New Years Eve contest, at the Jersey City Armory at 7:30 pm, located at 678 Montgomery Street.
Ray Ortiz (6'7''-F), who is a former star player from St Marys High School, and current assistant coach in Jersey City, has been added to the Express Coaching Staff, for the remainder of the season. 'I would like to take this opportunity to embrace the great opportunity to assist the Jersey Express Professional Basketball Team. It is with great interest that I will have the opportunity to provide my basketball expertise, which I have a great passion for. I have roots in Jersey City, and I hope to solicit and engage great fan support from the community of Jersey City. I am sincerely thankful for this opportunity;' stated Ortiz.
This will be the 1st visit to Jersey City for the Connecticut TopBallerz, with the teams holding a 1-1 series record. The Express are coming off back-to-back wins over NYC, and Staten Island.
The Express are featuring six players averaging double figures in points per game, and offer one of the most exciting offenses in the ABA, as they average 115.0 points per contest. Individual game tickets are only $10 for adults and $5 for kids.
Tickets are available at the door, or on the team website @ www.jerseyexpress.net

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ACPBL

Standings

ACPBL Standings

Big Apple Division
1. NYC 524		2-0
2. Hudson Valley		1-0
3. Manhattan P.		0-2
4. Toms River S.		0-2
North Division
1. Hartford L.		2-1
2. Buffalo W.		1-1
3. North Jersey P.		0-1
4. Garden St. R.		0-2
South Division
1. The Enterprise		2-0
2. Destroyers		1-0
3. Beltway B.		1-1
4. Center Court		1-1
5. Bay Area Sh.		0-1

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ALBANIA

Standings - A1

A1 Standings

Group A
1. SK Tirana		4-0
2. Kamza Basket		3-1
3. Vllaznia Shk.		3-1
4. Teuta Durres		1-3
5. Flamurtari		1-3
6. U.A.T.		0-4
Group B
1. Apolonia		2-0
2. Partizani Tirana		2-1
3. Pogradeci		0-3

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ALGERIA

Standings

D1 Standings

1. WA Boufarik		7-2
2. Blida		7-2
3. CSMC		6-1
4. GS Petroliers		6-1
5. Arreridj		6-2
6. Skikda		6-2
7. CRB Temouch.		5-5
8. O Batna		4-2
9. CRB Dar El-B.		4-5
10. MS Cherchell		4-6
11. NAH Dey		3-5
12. Staoueli		3-6
13. US Setif		3-6
14. Sidi-bel-Abbes		2-6
15. USM Blida		2-7
16. Annaba		0-9

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ARGENTINA

Atenas invite Tony Williams - by Eurobasket News
Atenas brought in Tony Williams (202-F-78, agency: ACMT, college: Louisville). The veteran forward will join the team for a tryout period. Tony Williams was last seen in action during 2009/10 season. He started the season with Villeurbanne. Tony Williams then moved to Chorale de Roanne. His stats read 5.8 points, 4.0 boards and 1.1 assists per game in ProA. In EuroChallenge the forward delivered 4.3 points and 3.5 boards per appearance. Next season Tony Williams was on tryouts with Al Riyadi and Al Moutahed in Lebanon but never signed a deal. He also had stints in Lebanon, Italy, France, Turkey before. Asia-Basket.com named Tony Williams into All-Lebanese 1st Team back in 2009.

Changes in Olimpico - by Facundo Iatzky
Olimpico La banda is one of the worst teams of Liga A right now. Trying to escape from this bad moment, they make a lot of changes. First they changed their head coach. Now they made some changes in the roster. First they parted away with Matias Ibarra and replaced him with Pablo Moldu (191-G-78). Matias felt not very comfortable in the team. They also released Jaime Lloreda and Denham brown and signed DeVon Hardin (211-C-86) and Gregory Grays (185-PG-79, college: Detroit Mercy).

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AUSTRIA

Standings - A Bundesliga

A Bundesliga Standings

1. Gmunden		12-2
2. Klosterneub.		11-2
3. Wels		10-3
4. Kapfenberg		8-5
5. Oberwart		8-6
6. Gussing		7-7
7. BC Vienna		6-8
8. UBSC Graz		5-9
9. Furstenfeld		4-10
10. Arkadia		3-10
11. St.Polten		0-12

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.4

1. Stazic, BC Vienna	26.4
2. Wade, Arkadia	24.4
3. Booker, St.Polten	23.0
4. Reed, Oberwart	21.3
5. Shavies, Furstenf.	19.2
6. Djuric, Gussing	19.1
7. Drenovac, Arkadia	18.9
8. Bobb, Klosterneub.	18.4
9. Vay, Arkadia	18.3
10. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.8

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	13.8
2. Vay, Arkadia	8.8
3. Werner, Wels	8.8
4. Reed, Oberwart	8.1
5. Oppland, Gmunden	8.0
6. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	7.8
7. Suljanovic, Kloste.	6.9
8. Ware, Furstenfeld	6.9
9. Trmal, St.Polten	6.6
10. Nelson, Kapfenbe.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 6

1. Fears, Kapfenberg	6.0
2. Vay, Arkadia	5.8
3. Danek, Arkadia	5.5
4. Klepeisz, Gussing	5.4
5. Lanegger, Klostern.	4.9
6. Schreiner, Kapfe.	4.9
7. Shavies, Furstenf.	4.6
8. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	4.6
9. Stazic, BC Vienna	4.6
10. Schaal, UBSC G.	4.1

Steals Per Game

Quentin PRYOR
  Wels
  (193-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Pryor, Wels	2.5
2. Vay, Arkadia	2.5
3. Fears, Kapfenberg	2.4
4. Shavies, Furstenf.	2.3
5. Scott, Gussing	1.9
6. Schreiner, Kapfe.	1.9
7. Brown, Wels	1.9
8. Wade, Arkadia	1.5
9. Stazic, BC Vienna	1.5
10. Arnold, Gmunden	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	3.2
2. Ware, Furstenfeld	1.3
3. Scott, Gussing	0.9
4. Brown, Wels	0.8
5. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	0.7
6. Shaw, Oberwart	0.6
7. Francois, BC Vienna	0.6
8. Greimeister, Klost.	0.6
9. Nelson, Kapfenberg	0.5
10. Moric, UBSC G.	0.5

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BAHRAIN

Standings

Premier League Standings

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

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BOSNIA

Bosnian Vladimir Radmanovic had a big game in the NBA for Atlanta Hawks on opening night! - by Chris Mathieu
Bosnian Vladimir Radmanovic had a big game in the NBA for Atlanta Hawks on opening night, a victory over the New Jersey Nets 106-70! Vladimir had a great night scoring 17 points he was 5-9 from the field (3-5 from 3 point land) and 4-4 from the free throw line. He also had 3 rebounds, 5 assists and four steals on the night! Vladimir could provide a vital role coming off the bench for Atlanta since they are missing sixth man of the year Jamal Crawford who signed in Portland.

Vladimir has had a productive, long career in the NBA playing for six teams so far. Vladimir has averaged double figures in scoring four times during his career and is an excellent 3 point shooter. Vladimir is arguably the best Bosnian to play in the NBA along with Predrag Danilovic who came late to the NBA and left after only a few seasons.

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BULGARIA

New Year - new coach for Lukoil: Champs offer the job to Marin Dokuzovski - by Maria Mitzova
Thursday game vs Yambol might be the last in charge for Lukoil Academik Sofia head coach Jovica Arsic .
The New Year might come with new coach for the Bulgarian champion, after the Eurocup disappointment. Lukoil Academik Sofia GM Sasho Vezenkov already got in touch with some coaching names, one of them of the former coach of the team Marin Dokuzovski (agency: Interperformances ).
Dokuzovski contract with Macedonian NT ended after the super-successful Eurobasket 2011, and now he is available, despite the expectations that he will stay in charge of his country.
Dokuzovski is expected to arrive in Sofia for talks in the next hours, and if theres an agreement, he can take the reign in Lukoil Academik Sofia.
If Lukoil Academik Sofia doesnt meet the requirements of Dokuzovski, Jovica Arsic could stay on the job and finish the season in Bulgaria. Arsic is still the person to prepare the team, leading practices after Christmas.
There are also roster changes to be expected, as the first one to leave the champions will be Akida McLain (206-F-86, college: Indiana, PA).

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CANADA

Kebs take win over Lightning - by Eurobasket News
Santa brought the London Lightning a first place standing a third of the way in to the NBL Canada season, but the Lightning should have realized that the Kebs were thinking 'new year' heading into their matchup. A 94-79 loss was not the way that the Lightning wanted to begin their post - Christmas road trip in front of the fans in Quebec.

'We didn't play well and we didn't shoot the ball well,' explained Coach Michael Ray Richardson on his teams performance. 'The five days off really hurt us this game. It was one of those games. We played pretty good early but we couldn't get over the hump.'

In sticking to his usual formula for success, Richardson went very deep into his bench as all 12 players saw action in the game. Gabe Freeman (6'6''-F-85, college: Costa Mesa JC) posted a double double (10 points, 13 boards); however, Quebec distributed the ball more efficiently and outrebounded the Lightning by 19. Ralphy Holmes (6'4''-G-79, college: CS Fullerton) led the winners with 23 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists.

The Lightning now travel to Saint John for a Thursday night game, tipping off at 7:00pm. They return home to take on Moncton for the first game in the New year, January 1st, at 2:00pm.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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CHINA

Beijing Loses Third Straight, Guangdong Ties for CBA Lead - by Arthur Volbert
Beijing lost its third straight game, falling to Zhejiang Guangsha 118-112. Beijing fell into a tie with Guangdong for the CBA lead at 13-3, with Guangsha one game back at 12-4.

Chandler Wilson (203-F-87, college: De Paul) led Guangsha with 44 points, 18 rebounds and 4 assists. Guangsha rallied 39-26 in the fourth quarter to gain the victory. Peter John Ramos had 26 points and 14 rebounds. Lin Chih-Chieh had 15 points and 5 assists. Wang Fei had 11 points and 5 rebounds. Wang Bo had 4 points and 7 rebounds. Stephon Marbury had 34 points, 6 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals for Beijing. Randolph Morris had 19 points and 5 rebounds but fouled out in 17 minutes. Zhu Yanxi had 16 points and 4 rebounds. Chen Lei scored 16 but fouled out in 30 minutes. Zhai Xiaochuan had 14 points and 7 rebounds. Ji Zhe had 4 points and 7 rebounds but fouled out in 28 minutes.

Guangdong edged Bayi 106-105. Aaron Brooks scored 20 in 24 minutes. Wang Shipeng had 18 points and 7 rebounds. James Singleton had 18 points and 13 rebounds. Wang Zheng had 11 points and 6 rebounds. Chen Jianghua also scored 11. Zhu Fangyu had 9 points and 8 rebounds. Dong Hanlin had 7 points and 7 rebounds. Zhang Chengyu scored 20 for Bayi. Xu Zhonghao had 18 points and 13 rebounds but fouled out in 34 minutes. Mo Ke scored 15 and Delehei had 14. Wang Lei had 9 points and 6 rebounds. Wang Zhizhi had 8 points and 9 rebounds.

Liaoning beat Zhejiang 117-95. Rodney Carney scored 33. Josh Powell had 26 points and 13 rebounds. Han Dejun had 15 points and 6 rebounds but is a defensive liability as rebounding specialist Josh Boone scored 36 playing against him. He Tianju scored 13. Yang Ming had 11 points and 6 assists. Guo Ailun had 8 points and 8 assists. Zhang Qingpeng had 7 points and 7 assists. Li Xiaoxu had 5 points and 6 rebounds. Boone had 19 rebounds to go along with his 36 points for Zhejiang. J. R. Smith had 24 points and 7 assists. Cao Fei had 9 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Zhang Chunjun scored 7 and Xia Yobo had 6. National team player Ding Jinhui had 5 points and 3 rebounds in 26 minutes.

Josh Akognon had 35 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists as Dongguan blasted Shanxi 110-91. Qiu Biao scored 25. Sun Tonglin had 20 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists in his best game of the season. Shavlik Randolph had 14 points and 11 rebounds. 7-2 Li Muhao had his first impact this season, scoring only 1 point in 18 minutes but grabbing 8 rebounds and blocking 2 shots. Marcus Williams had 24 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals for Shanxi. Charles Gaines had 23 points and 10 rebounds. Duan Jiangpeng scored 16 but hit only 1 of 6 three-pointers. Shang Ping had 7 points and 7 rebounds.

Fujian beat Xinjiang 115-92. Xinjiang once again used no imports. Will McDonald had 32 points and 14 rebounds. Anthony Roberson scored 21. Zaid Abbas had 17 points and 16 rebounds. Guo Lei had 12 points and Zhao Tailong had 11. Xu Guozhong scored 46 points for Xinjiang, the biggest scoring output for a native player all season. Tang Zhengdong had 16 points and 4 rebounds but fouled out in 28 minutes. Meng Duo and Zhao Yonggang each scored 8. Xirelijiang had 7 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists.

Lester Hudson had 37 points and 12 assists as Qingdao topped Foshan 110-88. Li Gen scored 22. Olumide Oyedeji had 16 points and 10 rebounds. Sani Sakakini had 9 points and 6 rebounds. Marcus Douthit had 25 points and 8 rebounds for Foshan. Zheng Zhun had 16 points and 4 rebounds. Yang Wenbo had 15 points and 6 rebounds. Marcus Haislip had 10 points and 6 rebounds. Luo Zhi scored 10.

Jilin beat Jiangsu 111-105. Jameel Watkins had 33 points and 17 rebounds. Osama Daghlas had 31 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. Cartier Martin did not play. Lu Wei scored 14. 208 cm Li An had 10 points and 7 rebounds. Zhong Cheng had 9 points and 8 rebounds. Jackson Vroman had 37 points and 14 rebounds for Jiangsu. Liu Yahui had 22 points and 6 rebounds. Yi Li had 14 points and 5 rebounds. Marcus Williams had 13 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Yang Li had 10 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists.

Michael Harris had 27 points and 11 rebounds as Shanghai beat Tianjin 103-81. Ryan Forehan-Kelly had 24 points and 5 rebounds. Liu Wei had 12 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists. Wen-Ting Tseng scored 9. Meng Lingyuan had 8 points and 7 rebounds. Zhang Zhaoxu had 4 points and 6 rebounds in 19 minutes. Donnell Harvey had 27 points and 17 rebounds for Tianjin. Zhang Nan scored 21. Zhang Zhihan had 12 points and 7 rebounds. David Harrison had 10 points and 6 rebounds. Rony Fahed had 8 points and 3 assists.

Standings - CBA

CBA Standings

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

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

J.R. SMITH
  Zhejiang C.
  (198-G-85)
  Avg: 35

1. Smith, Zhejiang C.	35.0
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	34.2
3. Chandler, Guangsha.	28.9
4. Williams, Shanxi Z.	28.5
5. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	28.1
6. McDonald, Fujian X.	27.0
7. Mills, Xinjiang.	26.5
8. Akognon, DongGuan.	26.2
9. Martin, Jilin N.	26.2
10. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	25.9

Rebounds Per Game

Zaid ABBAS
  Fujian XX
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 15.6

1. Abbas, Fujian XX	15.6
2. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	15.0
3. Ramos, Guangsha L.	14.5
4. Harvey, TianJin R.	13.7
5. Hunter, Shandong	13.4
6. Gadzuric, Jiang.	13.1
7. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	12.7
8. Chandler, Guangsha.	12.6
9. Boone, Zhejiang C.	12.4
10. Randolph, DongGu.	12.3

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Daghles, Jilin N.	7.9
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	5.9
3. Mengke, Xinjiang.	5.6
4. Marbury, Beijing	5.6
5. Zhang, Liaoning H.	4.9
6. Yang, Liaoning H.	4.9
7. Brooks, Guandong	4.8
8. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	4.7
9. Anderson, Shandon.	4.7
10. Williams, Shanxi	4.6

Steals Per Game

Lester HUDSON
  Qingdao DS
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Hudson, Qingdao DS	3.6
2. Lee, Beijing Ducks	2.9
3. Hu, Jiangsu D.	2.9
4. Smith, Zhejiang C.	2.9
5. Daghles, Jilin N.	2.7
6. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	2.6
7. Marbury, Beijing	2.3
8. Yi, Jiangsu D.	2.3
9. Mills, Xinjiang.	2.3
10. Williams, Shanxi	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Dan GADZURIC
  Jiang.
  (211-C-78)
  Avg: 2

1. Gadzuric, Jiang.	2.0
2. Zhang, Shanghai S.	1.8
3. Xu, Bayi Fubang	1.8
4. Boone, Zhejiang C.	1.7
5. Randolph, DongGua.	1.6
6. Carney, Liaoning H.	1.6
7. Douthit, Foshan	1.6
8. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	1.5
9. Watkins, Jilin N.	1.5
10. Li, Liaoning H.	1.4

CBA Round 17: Guandong ties Beijing Ducks on top - by Eurobasket News
CBA is at the halfway of the Regular Season and there are still another 17 rounds left.

Top ranked Beijing Ducks (13-3) recorded its third loss at the home court on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by third ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (12-4) 118-112. The guests trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 39-26 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions made 31-of-39 free shots (79.5 percent) during the game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions outrebounded Beijing Ducks 52-35 including 38 on the defensive glass. 31 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) who had a double-double by scoring 44 points (!!!), 18 rebounds and 4 assists. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) chipped in 26 points and 14 rebounds. American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) produced 34 points (!!!), 6 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain third place with 12-4 record behind leader Beijing Ducks. Beijing Ducks lost third consecutive game. They still keep top position with three games lost. They share it with Guandong ST. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#15) in Tianjin in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Beijing Ducks will play on the road against Jilin Tigers (#11) in Changchun and are hoping to win this game.
Eleventh-ranked Bayi Fubang (6-9) made lots of trouble for second ranked Guandong Tigers (13-3) in Ningbo. The visitors from Dongguan managed to secure only one-point victory 106-105. However their fans expected much easier game. American forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. ShiPeng Wang contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. International center ZhongHao Xu (212-90) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds for Bayi Fubang. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. The victory was the third consecutive win for Guandong Tigers. They used an opportunity after Beijing Ducks lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position. Bayi Fubang lost their fifth game in a row. They dropped to the twelfth place with nine games lost. Guandong Tigers will play against Zhejiang Cyclones (#4) in Hangzhou in the next round. Bayi Fubang will play on the road against DongGuan Leopards (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game was played in Yingkou where host Liaoning Hunters (#7) rolled over 4th placed Zhejiang Cyclones with 22-point difference 117-95 on Wednesday evening. The game was dominated by American players. Josh Powell stepped up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Josh Boone responded with a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 19 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. The victory was the third consecutive win for Liaoning Hunters. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with DongGuan L. Zhejiang Cyclones at the other side keep the fourth position with six games lost. Liaoning Hunters will meet at home bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#17) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Zhejiang Cyclones will play against the league's second-placed Guandong Tigers (#2) in Dongguan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Jinjiang, where higher ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (8-7) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (8-8) 115-92. Will McDonald nailed a double-double by scoring 32 points and 14 rebounds 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 rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Fujian SBS XunXin. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Shanghai S. Xinjiang Flying Tige lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the seventh position with seven games lost. Fujian SBS XunXin's next round opponent will be Shanxi Zhongyu (#10) in Taiyuan.

Other games of round 17 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
TianJin R. was defeated by Shanghai S. in a road game 93-81. Jilin NE T. beat Jiangsu D. at home 111-105. Foshan was destroyed by Qingdao DS on the opponent's court 110-88. DongGuan L. outscored Shanxi Zh. in a home game 110-91.

Shanghai S. - TianJin R. 93-81

There was no surprise when 14th ranked TianJin Rongcheng (5-11) was defeated on the road by tenth ranked Shanghai Sharks (8-8) 93-81. The game was mostly controlled by Shanghai Sharks. TianJin Rongcheng was better in third quarter 22-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) nailed a double-double by scoring 27 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import forward Ryan Forehan-Kelly (196-80, college: California) accounted for 24 points and 5 rebounds. American power forward Donnell Harvey (203-80, college: Florida) came up with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 17 rebounds and forward Nan Zhang (197-81) added 21 points and 5 rebounds respectively for TianJin Rongcheng in the defeat. Four TianJin Rongcheng players scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Shanghai Sharks. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Fujian XX. TianJin Rongcheng at the other side dropped to the fifteenth position with 11 games lost. Shanghai Sharks' next round opponent will be Qingdao Double Star (#13) at home which should be theoretically an easy game. TianJin Rongcheng will play against Zhejiang Guangsha Lions in Hangzhou.
Top scorers:
Shanghai S.: H.Mike 27+11reb, F.Ryan 24+5reb+1ast, L.Wei 12+3reb+4ast, T.Wen-Ting 9+2reb+1ast, M.Lingyuan 8+7reb+4ast, F.Tian 5+1reb+3ast
TianJin R.: H.Donnell 27+17reb+3ast, Z.Nan 21+5reb+3ast, Z.Zhihan 12+7reb, H.David 10+6reb, F.Rony 8+2reb+3ast, X.Lei 2+5reb

Beijing Ducks - Guangsha L. 112-118

Top ranked Beijing Ducks (13-3) recorded its third loss at the home court on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by third ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (12-4) 118-112. The guests trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 39-26 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions made 31-of-39 free shots (79.5 percent) during the game. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions outrebounded Beijing Ducks 52-35 including 38 on the defensive glass. 31 personal fouls committed by Beijing Ducks helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American forward Wilson Chandler (203-87, college: De Paul) who had a double-double by scoring 44 points (!!!), 18 rebounds and 4 assists. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) chipped in a double-double by scoring 26 points and 14 rebounds. American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) produced 34 points (!!!), 6 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals and the other American import power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) added 19 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 11-for-11 from the free throw line !!!) respectively for the hosts. Four Zhejiang Guangsha Lions and five Beijing Ducks players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain third place with 12-4 record behind leader Beijing Ducks. Beijing Ducks lost third consecutive game. They still keep top position with three games lost. They share it with Guandong ST. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions are looking forward to face TianJin Rongcheng (#15) in Tianjin in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Beijing Ducks will play on the road against Jilin Tigers (#11) in Changchun and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Guangsha L.: C.Wilson 44+18reb+4ast, R.Peter John 26+14reb+1ast, L.Chih-Chieh 15+1reb+5ast, W.Fei 11+5reb, Z.Dapeng 6+3reb+1ast, W.Zirui 4+2reb+1ast
Beijing Ducks: M.Stephon 34+6reb+9ast, M.Randolph 19+5reb+1ast, C.Lei 16+2reb, Z.YanXi 16+4reb+1ast, Z.Xiaochuan 14+7reb+2ast, F.Shuo 5+2reb+1ast

Jilin NE T. - Jiangsu D. 111-105

No shocking result in a game in Changchun where twelfth ranked Jilin Tigers (7-9) defeated bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (3-13) 111-105. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Jiangsu Dragons were ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 36-28 third quarter run of Jilin Tigers. They made 22-of-29 charity shots (75.9 percent) during the game. American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) nailed a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!), 17 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winning side and Jordanian guard Osama Daghles (198-79, college: Midwestern St.) accounted for 31 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists. Jilin Tigers' coach Han Wang allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!), 14 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international forward Yahui Liu (206-88) added 22 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Jiangsu Dragons in the defeat. Four Jilin Tigers and five Jiangsu Dragons players scored in double figures. Jilin Tigers moved-up to eleventh place. Jiangsu Dragons lost their sixth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 13 games lost. Jilin Tigers' next round opponent will be league's leader Beijing Ducks at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jiangsu Dragons will play against Liaoning Hunters (#6) in Yingkou.
Top scorers:
Jilin NE T.: W.Jameel 33+17reb+2ast, D.Osama 31+9reb+8ast, L.Wei 14+1reb, L.Ang 10+7reb, Z.Cheng 9+8reb+3ast, L.Tao 6+2reb+2ast
Jiangsu D.: V.Jackson 37+14reb+4ast, L.Yahui 22+6reb, Y.Li 14+5reb+1ast, W.Marcus 13+7reb+8ast, Y.Li 10+5reb+3ast, H.XueFeng 5+1reb+1ast

Bayi Fubang - Guandong ST 105-106

Eleventh-ranked Bayi Fubang (6-9) made lots of trouble for second ranked Guandong Tigers (13-3) in Ningbo. The visitors from Dongguan managed to secure only one-point victory 106-105. However their fans expected much easier game. Bayi Fubang was ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 25-21 charge of Guandong Tigers, which allowed them to win the game. They outrebounded Bayi Fubang 50-36 including a 23-9 advantage in offensive rebounds. Bayi Fubang was plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) saved the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. International swingman ShiPeng Wang (197-83) contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. International center ZhongHao Xu (212-90) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds and swingman Chengyu Zhang (193-89) added 20 points in the effort for Bayi Fubang. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. The victory was the third consecutive win for Guandong Tigers. They used an opportunity after Beijing Ducks lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position. Bayi Fubang lost their fifth game in a row. They dropped to the twelfth place with nine games lost. Guandong Tigers will play against Zhejiang Cyclones (#4) in Hangzhou in the next round. Bayi Fubang will play on the road against DongGuan Leopards (#5) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Guandong ST: B.Aaron 20+3reb+1ast, W.ShiPeng 18+7reb+1ast, S.James 18+13reb+2ast, W.Zheng 11+6reb+2ast, C.Jianghua 11+1ast, Z.FangYu 9+8reb+2ast
Bayi Fubang: Z.Chengyu 20+2reb+2ast, X.ZhongHao 18+13reb+2ast, M.Ke 15+1reb+2ast, D.Lehei 14+1reb, Z.Bo 12+1reb+3ast, W.Lei 9+6reb

Fujian XX - Xinjiang F.T. 115-92

We should mention about the upset which took place in Jinjiang, where higher ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige (8-7) was outleveled in a road game by ninth ranked Fujian SBS XunXin (8-8) 115-92. The game without a history. Fujian SBS XunXin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Xinjiang Flying Tige's 40. They outrebounded Xinjiang Flying Tige 49-29 including a 21-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. American center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) nailed a double-double by scoring 32 points and 14 rebounds for the winning side and Jordanian forward Zaid Abbas (203-83) accounted for 17 points and 16 rebounds. Five Fujian SBS XunXin players scored in double figures. Swingman GuoChong Xu (198-81) came up with 46 points (!!!) (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and the former international center ZhengDong Tang (213-84) added 16 points respectively for Xinjiang Flying Tige in the defeat. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Fujian SBS XunXin. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Shanghai S. Xinjiang Flying Tige lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the seventh position with seven games lost. Fujian SBS XunXin's next round opponent will be Shanxi Zhongyu (#10) in Taiyuan.
Top scorers:
Fujian XX: M.Will 32+14reb+1ast, R.Anthony 21+2reb+3ast, A.Zaid 17+16reb+3ast, G.Lei 12+3reb+1ast, Z.TaiLong 11+4reb+3ast, Y.Qin 5+1reb+1ast
Xinjiang F.T.: X.GuoChong 46+4reb+3ast, T.ZhengDong 16+4reb, P.Duo 8+2reb, Z.Yong-Gang 8+2reb+1ast, C.Tal 7+4reb+3ast, M.Lati 3+5reb+4ast

Qingdao DS - Foshan 110-88

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fifteenth ranked Qingdao Double Star and 16th ranked Foshan had identical 5-10 record. This time Qingdao Double Star used a home court advantage and rolled over the opponent from Foshan 110-88. It looked good early as Foshan took an 8-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Qingdao Double Star took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 22 points. They also forced 20 Foshan turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Foshan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tenn-Martin) nailed a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!), 6 rebounds, 12 assists and 7 steals for the winning side and Nigerian-British power forward Olumide Oyedeji (208-81) accounted for 16 points and 10 rebounds. Qingdao Double Star's coach felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. American-Filipino power forward Marcus Douthit (210-80, college: Providence, agency: Edge Sports) came up with 25 points and 8 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) and swingman Wenbo Yang (196-90) added 15 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Foshan in the defeat. Four Qingdao Double Star and five Foshan players scored in double figures. Qingdao Double Star (6-10) moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Shandong FB. Foshan at the other side dropped to the fifteenth position with 11 games lost. Qingdao Double Star's next round opponent will be higher ranked Shanghai Sharks (#9) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Foshan will play against Shandong Bulls (#14) in Jinan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Qingdao DS: H.Lester 37+6reb+12ast, L.Gen 22+3reb+1ast, O.Olumide 16+10reb+3ast, X.YuYang 10+3reb, S.Sani 9+6reb+2ast, C.Liang 5+2reb+2ast
Foshan: D.Marcus 25+8reb+2ast, Z.Zhun 16+4reb, Y.Wenbo 15+6reb+1ast, L.Zhi 10+1reb+2ast, H.Marcus 10+6reb+1ast, Z.Lingxu 6+5reb+1ast

DongGuan L. - Shanxi Zh. 110-91

Rather predictable result when sixth ranked DongGuan Leopards (9-7) outscored at home 8th ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (7-8) 110-91. The game was mostly controlled by DongGuan Leopards. Shanxi Zhongyu was better in third quarter 27-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. DongGuan Leopards forced 21 Shanxi Zhongyu turnovers. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) nailed 35 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and power forward TongLin Sun (208-92) accounted for 20 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Four DongGuan Leopards players scored in double figures. American swingman Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) came up with 24 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals and the other American import forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) added 23 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Shanxi Zhongyu in the defeat. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. DongGuan Leopards moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Liaoning H. Shanxi Zhongyu lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the tenth position with eight games lost. DongGuan Leopards' next round opponent will be Bayi Fubang (#12) in Ningbo and are hoping to win another game. Shanxi Zhongyu will play at home against Fujian SBS XunXin in Jinjiang and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
DongGuan L.: A.Josh-Emmanuel 35+6reb+4ast, Q.Biao 25+3reb+1ast, S.TongLin 20+10reb+5ast, R.Shavlik 14+11reb+1ast, H.Chih-Shan 5+3reb+2ast, H.ZhongMian 5+1reb+2ast
Shanxi Zh.: W.Marcus 24+6reb+7ast, G.Charles 23+10reb, D.JiangPeng 15+2reb+2ast, P.Shang 7+7reb, P.Jiang 6, B.ZhaoBao 6+5reb+2ast

Liaoning H. - Zhejiang C. 117-95

An interesting game was played in Yingkou where host Liaoning Hunters (#7) rolled over 4th placed Zhejiang Cyclones with 22-point difference 117-95 on Wednesday evening. The hosts trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 22 points. Liaoning Hunters forced 21 Zhejiang Cyclones turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. The game was dominated by American players. Forward Josh Powell (206-83, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Strategic Sports) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and forward Rodney Carney (201-84, college: Memphis) chipped in 33 points (!!!). Four Liaoning Hunters players scored in double figures. Power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) responded with a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 19 rebounds and guard J.R. Smith (198-85) scored 24 points and 7 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Liaoning Hunters. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with DongGuan L. Zhejiang Cyclones at the other side keep the fourth position with six games lost. Liaoning Hunters will meet at home bottom-ranked Jiangsu Dragons (#17) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Zhejiang Cyclones will play against the league's second-placed Guandong Tigers (#2) in Dongguan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Liaoning H.: C.Rodney 33+3reb, P.Josh 26+13reb+2ast, H.Dejun 14+6reb+1ast, H.Tian-ju 13+2reb, Y.Ming 11+6ast, G.Ailun 8+2reb+8ast
Zhejiang C.: B.Josh 36+19reb, S.J.R. 24+7ast, C.Fei 9+5reb+6ast, Z.ChunJun 7+3reb+1ast, X.Yo Bo 6+2reb+1ast, D.Jinhui 5+3reb

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CROATIA

Reigning champ Zagreb returns PG Vedran Morovic - by Eurobasket News
The reigning Croatian champion and National Cup holder KK Zagreb returned its former player Vedran Morovic (184-PG-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Olney Central CC). The 28-year-old Morovic will help the team at point guard position, together with veteran Damir Mulaomerovic. Vedran Morovic started this season with Ukrainian team Politekhnika-Halychyna. He appeared 16 times in the league averaging 11.6 points, 4.4 assists and 2.9 rebounds. Last season Morovic spent with Siroki TT Kabeli. He helped them win the Bosnian league title with 10.5 ppg and 4 apg for 15 games. Morovic shined in Adriatic league with 15.2 ppg, 4.3 apg and 3.5 rpg for 25 games. He played for Zagreb from January of 2008 until the end of the 2008/09 season. In the past, Morovic was a member of Zadar, Cibona, Union Olimpija, VidiVici Bologna and German EnBW Ludwigsburg. KK Zagreb failed to reach the Euroleague Top 16 and will focus on domestic and regional championships.

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CYPRUS

Standings - Division A

Division A Standings

1. Keravnos		10-0
2. Apollon		8-2
3. Etha		7-3
4. APOEL		6-4
5. AEK		5-5
6. Omonia		4-6
7. ENAD		3-7
8. AEL		1-8

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Robin Matejka is a newcomer at BC Kolin - by Eurobasket Center
BC Kolin added to their roster 18-year old swingman Robin Matejka (190-G/F-93). In In his first game he didnt score any points. Matejka played most recently at BK Breda & Weinstein Opava (NBL).

By Eurobasket Data Center

NBL Round 19 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Levharti Chomutov (6-13) outlasted Levice (5-14) in overtime by two points 100-98 on Wednesday night. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 26-17. But Levice won second period 25-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Levice used huge pressure winning it 23-21 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 11-13. Levharti Chomutov made 26-of-29 free shots (89.7 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Levice helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for power forward Pavel Stanek (203-76, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory scoring 22 points and 6 rebounds. American guard Rob Lowery (188-87, college: Dayton) helped adding 19 points and 8 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Keaton Grant (193-86, college: Purdue) responded with 19 points. Levice's coach Peter Balint rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Levharti Chomutov moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Usti n/Labem. Levice lost tenth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with 14 games lost. They share it with Plzen. Levharti Chomutov is looking forward to face BK Loko Plzen (#12) at home in the next round. Levice will play against BK Decin and is hoping to win this game.
Fifth ranked BK Decin (14-6) crushed at home 13th ranked B&W Opava (3-16) by 36 points 85-49, which is the biggest margin this round. It was a quality performance for international forward Pavel Houska (201-84) who led the winners and scored 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Levell Sanders accounted for 10 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Croatian power forward Milan Kolovrat (207-86) came up with 9 points and 5 rebounds for B&W Opava in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. BK Decin have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 14-6 record. B&W Opava at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with 16 games lost. They share it with Inter Bratislava. BK Decin will play against Levice (#11) at home in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. B&W Opava will play against Basketbal Svitavy and hopes to get back on the winning track.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 19: Svitavy lost to BK Prostejov on the opponent's court 54-71. Bottom-ranked Inter Bratislava unfortunately lost to BK Pardubice in a home game 73-88. USK Praha managed to beat Usti n/Labem on the road 91-81. BC Kolin defeated NH Ostrava on its own court 94-88.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 21 points and 11 rebounds by Savvas Manousos of NH Ostrava.

Chomutov - Levice 100-98 OT

Levharti Chomutov (6-13) outlasted Levice (5-14) in overtime by two points 100-98 on Wednesday night. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 26-17. But Levice won second period 25-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Levice used huge pressure winning it 23-21 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 11-13. Levharti Chomutov made 26-of-29 free shots (89.7 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Levice helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for power forward Pavel Stanek (203-76, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory scoring 22 points and 6 rebounds. American guard Rob Lowery (188-87, college: Dayton) helped adding 19 points and 8 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Keaton Grant (193-86, college: Purdue) responded with 19 points and Canadian power forward Corey Hallett (208-84, college: Monmouth) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Levice's coach Peter Balint rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Levharti Chomutov moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Usti n/Labem. Levice lost tenth consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with 14 games lost. They share it with Plzen. Levharti Chomutov is looking forward to face BK Loko Plzen (#12) at home in the next round. Levice will play against BK Decin and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Chomutov: P.Stanek 22+6reb+1ast, P.Pope 22+2reb+3ast, R.Lowery 19+8reb, Z.Hanzlik 14+2reb+1ast, V.Sucharda 10+3reb, P.Hemmy 6+2ast
Levice: K.Grant 19+4reb, S.Stemberger 17+3reb, C.Hallett 16+5reb+1ast, D.Marek 13+4reb+2ast, M.Sykora 10+5reb+1ast, M.Bernard 9+3reb+1ast

BK Decin - B&W Opava 85-49

Fifth ranked BK Decin (14-6) crushed at home 13th ranked B&W Opava (3-16) by 36 points 85-49, which is the biggest margin this round. The game without a history. BK Decin led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to B&W Opava's 30. BK Decin forced 19 B&W Opava turnovers and outrebounded them 45-31 including 27 on the offensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 31 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by B&W Opava's players. It was a quality performance for international forward Pavel Houska (201-84) who led the winners and scored 16 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. American guard Levell Sanders (189-75, college: Seton Hall, agency: Stanley International) accounted for 10 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winning side. Croatian power forward Milan Kolovrat (207-86) came up with 9 points and 5 rebounds and forward Jakub Blazek (203-80) added 6 points and 6 rebounds respectively for B&W Opava in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. BK Decin have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 14-6 record. B&W Opava at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with 16 games lost. They share it with Inter Bratislava. BK Decin will play against Levice (#11) at home in the next round which should be theoretically another easy game. B&W Opava will play against Basketbal Svitavy and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
BK Decin: P.Houska 16+6reb+5ast, T.Williams 12+3reb, T.Pomikalek 11+2reb+1ast, L.Sanders 10+5reb+6ast, A.Alic 8+6reb+4ast, J.Houska 6+6reb+1ast
B&W Opava: M.Kolovrat 9+5reb, B.Celebija 8+2reb, P.Dokoupil 6+1ast, J.Blazek 6+6reb+1ast, M.Vanak 6+6reb+1ast, J.Sirina 4+2reb+3ast

BK Prostejov - Svitavy 71-54

Very expected game when 8th ranked Basketbal Svitavy (7-12) was defeated on the road by third ranked BK Prostejov (15-3) 71-54. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when BK Prostejov's pressure prevailed and they won that period 21-8 extending their advantage to 17 points. It was an exceptional evening for American center Travis Peterson (208-85, college: Samford, agency: Edge Sports) who led the winners and scored 15 points and 9 rebounds. Lithuanian guard Arvydas Eitutavicius (188-82, college: his fellow American import) accounted for 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. BK Prostejov's coach Zbynek Choleva allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Congolese-French forward Boris Meno (203-83, college: Davidson) came up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 17 rebounds and power forward Ladislav Horak (205-86) added 9 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Basketbal Svitavy in the defeat. BK Prostejov have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain third place with 15-3 record having four points less than leader CEZ Nymburk. Basketbal Svitavy at the other side keeps the eighth position with 12 games lost. BK Prostejov will play against league's second-placed BK Pardubice on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Basketbal Svitavy will play against B&W Opava (#13) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
BK Prostejov: T.Peterson 15+9reb+2ast, A.Eitutavicius 15+8reb+3ast, J.Smith 13+3reb+3ast, D.Pandula 7+7reb, P.Slezak 7+3reb+1ast, B.Gadri-Nicholson 7+9reb+1ast
Svitavy: B.Meno 21+17reb, L.Horak 9+8reb+2ast, P.Harcar 6, L.Sindelar 6+4reb, J.Spacek 6+2reb, L.Moravec 4+2ast

Inter Bratislava - BK Pardubice 73-88

Very predictable result when second ranked BK Pardubice (16-3) defeated on the road bottom-ranked Inter Bratislava (3-16) 88-73. The game was mostly controlled by BK Pardubice. Inter Bratislava was better in fourth quarter 16-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. BK Pardubice dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Inter Bratislava's 30. They outrebounded Inter Bratislava 42-22 including a 27-16 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for American power forward Marcus Arnold (207-84, college: Illinois, agency: Stanley International) who led the winners and scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Canadian-Jamaican forward Corey Muirhead (198-83, college: W.Carolina) accounted for 14 points for the winning side. Arnold is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Puerto Rican-American guard Emanuel Ubilla (188-86, college: Fair Dickinson) came up with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and Slovakian swingman Miroslav Zilik (197-89) added 7 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Inter Bratislava in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. BK Pardubice have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain second place with 16-3 record having just two points less than leader CEZ Nymburk. Inter Bratislava lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. They share it with B&W Opava. BK Pardubice will play against BK Prostejov (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Inter Bratislava will play against USK Praha (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
BK Pardubice: C.Muirhead 14+4reb+2ast, M.Arnold 13+8reb, Z.Pospisil 11+6reb, J.Cernosek 10+3reb+1ast, M.Hampton 9+1reb, P.Bohacik 8+7reb+1ast
Inter Bratislava: E.Ubilla 17+6reb+4ast, A.Kuffa 13+1ast, T.Durana 11+1reb+1ast, M.Williams 9+4reb, M.Pesic 7+3reb+1ast, M.Trivunovic 7+2reb+3ast

Usti n/Labem - USK Praha 81-91

Not a big story in a game when 9th ranked BK Usti nad Labem (6-13) was defeated at home by sixth ranked USK Praha (12-7) 91-81. The guests were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 5-point deficit before their 25-10 run, which allowed them to win the game. USK Praha outrebounded BK Usti nad Labem 38-26 including 28 on the offensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. It was an exceptional evening for Slovakian center Peter Sedmak (207-85) who led the winners and scored 27 points and 6 rebounds. International forward Vojtech Hruban (202-89) accounted for 19 points and 4 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winning side. American guard Thaddeus McFadden (188-87, college: Fairmont St., agency: Stanley International) came up with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists and center Tomas Hruby (206-78) added 15 points and 7 rebounds respectively for BK Usti nad Labem in the defeat. Five BK Usti nad Labem players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. USK Praha have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain sixth place with 12-7 record. BK Usti nad Labem lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the ninth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Chomutov. USK Praha will play against bottom-ranked Inter Bratislava (#14) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. BK Usti nad Labem will play against NH Ostrava (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
USK Praha: P.Sedmak 27+6reb+2ast, V.Hruban 19+4reb+4ast, S.Votroubek 16+8reb, M.Sotnar 9+3reb+6ast, M.Mares 6+4reb+3ast, J.Slavik 6+3reb+1ast
Usti n/Labem: T.McFadden 17+8reb+6ast, T.Hruby 15+7reb+2ast, J.Holanda 14+2ast, V.Hejl 12+2reb+3ast, J.Dollard 12+3reb, A.Pistecky 7+2reb+2ast

BC Kolin - NH Ostrava 94-88

Everything went according to plan when fourth ranked BC Kolin (14-5) beat at home 7th ranked NH Ostrava (9-10) 94-88. The hosts were ahead by 1 point but lost the second period ending it with a 4-point deficit before their 24-14 run, which allowed them to win the game. BC Kolin players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Chadwick-Farrell Barnes (190-83, college: New Orleans) who led the winners and scored 17 points and 8 rebounds. His fellow American import forward Richard Field (196-85, college: Mercyhurst) accounted for 15 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. Greek power forward Savvas Manousos (208-85) came up with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and American swingman Riley Luettgerodt (196-85, college: Hawaii, agency: I.D.S. Law) added 17 points and 5 rebounds respectively for NH Ostrava in the defeat. Five BC Kolin and four NH Ostrava players scored in double figures. NH Ostrava's coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. BC Kolin maintains fourth place with 14-5 record. NH Ostrava at the other side keeps the seventh position with ten games lost. BC Kolin will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. NH Ostrava will play at home against BK Usti nad Labem (#10) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
BC Kolin: C.Barnes 17+8reb+3ast, R.Field 15+10reb+1ast, S.Zuzak 15+5reb+3ast, D.Machac 14+4reb+3ast, R.Marko 12+2reb+5ast, R.Ames 12+5reb+8ast
NH Ostrava: S.Manousos 21+11reb+1ast, J.Stehlik 20+1reb+1ast, R.Luettgerodt 17+5reb+3ast, D.Wright 11+6reb+3ast, J.Aleksejevs 7+6reb+2ast, J.Hughes 6+2reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Keaton GRANT
  Levice
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 20.6

1. Grant, Levice	20.6
2. Sedmak, USK Praha	20.1
3. Henderson, Levice	18.5
4. Wright, Chomutov	17.9
5. Lowery, Chomutov	17.5
6. McFadden, Usti n.	17.2
7. Hruban, USK Praha	16.7
8. Houska, BK Decin	16.1
9. Longmire, Usti n.	15.9
10. Wilson, CEZ N.	15.4

Rebounds Per Game

Stanislav VOTROUBEK
  USK P.
  (212-C-81)
  Avg: 9.4

1. Votroubek, USK P.	9.4
2. Meno, Svitavy	8.5
3. Arnold, BK Pardu.	8.4
4. Gadri-N., BK Prost.	8.3
5. Naymick, CEZ N.	8.0
6. Peterson, BK Prost.	7.1
7. Houska, BK Decin	7.1
8. Hughes, NH Ostrava	6.5
9. Blazek, B&W Opava	6.3
10. Henderson, Levice	6.2

Assists Per Game

Michal SOTNAR
  USK Praha
  (189-PG-92)
  Avg: 4.9

1. Sotnar, USK Praha	4.9
2. Wright, Chomutov	4.6
3. Barnes, BC Kolin	4.6
4. Vrubl, Plzen	4.3
5. Lawrence, CEZ N.	4.1
6. George, Svitavy	3.9
7. Boyer, BK Decin	3.7
8. McFadden, Usti n.	3.6
9. Ames, BC Kolin	3.4
10. Eitutavicius, BK	3.0

Steals Per Game

Pavel PUMPRLA
  CEZ N.
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Pumprla, CEZ N.	2.6
2. Klecka, B&W Opava	2.5
3. Wright, Chomutov	2.4
4. McFadden, Usti n.	2.4
5. Sirina, B&W Opava	2.3
6. Ames, BC Kolin	1.9
7. Lowery, Chomutov	1.8
8. Inge, NH Ostrava	1.8
9. Grant, Levice	1.8
10. Smith, BK Prost.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  NH Ostrava
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Hughes, NH Ostrava	1.6
2. Gadri-N., BK Prost.	1.6
3. Naymick, CEZ N.	1.3
4. Grant, Levice	1.2
5. Meno, Svitavy	1.1
6. Miklosik, B&W O.	1.0
7. Williams, BK Decin	0.9
8. Henderson, Levice	0.8
9. Votroubek, USK P.	0.8
10. Spralja, CEZ N.	0.7

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. CEZ Nymburk		18-1
2. BK Pardubice		16-3
3. BK Prostejov		15-3
4. BC Kolin		14-5
5. BK Decin		14-6
6. USK Praha		12-7
7. NH Ostrava		9-10
8. Svitavy		7-12
9. Chomutov		6-13
10. Usti n/Labem		6-13
11. Levice		5-14
12. Plzen		5-14
13. B&W Opava		3-16
14. Inter Bratislava		3-16

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

D-LEAGUE

Hayes is back at Maine Red Claws - by Eurobasket Center
Maine Red Claws signed 24-year old Kenny Hayes (188-PG-79kg-87, college: Miami, OH). Its actually Hayes comeback to Maine RC as he played here before. In his first game he scored 14 points and grabbed 3 rebounds. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Canton C. 90-106. Hayes played most recently at Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA). He graduated Miami University, Ohio in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

McLeod is back at Canton Charge - by Eurobasket Center
Canton Charge agreed terms with 32-year old Keith McLeod (190-PG-86kg-79, college: Bowling Green). Its actually McLeods comeback to Canton C. as he played here before. In his first game he scored 23 points and added 5 assists helping his new team beat Maine RC 106-90. McLeod played most recently at Canton Charge (D-League). While playing 4 games for Canton C. this season he averaged 13.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 5.8apg and 1.8spg. McLeod played also pro basketball in Greece and Italy. He graduated Bowling Green State University in 2002 and actually missed last season. It will be his tenth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Blakely comes back to Iowa Energy - by Eurobasket Center
Iowa Energy added to their roster 22-year old forward Marqus Blakely (196-F-102kg-89, college: Vermont). Its actually Blakelys comeback to Iowa E. as he played here before. In his first game he scored 22 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and 6 assists helping his new team beat Sioux Falls S. 121-103. Blakely played most recently at Houston Rockets (NBA). He graduated University of Vermont in 2010 and actually missed last season. It will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Former Celtics swingman Ricky Davis to join Maine Red Claws - by Eurobasket News
Ricky Davis (6'7''-G-79, college: Iowa) is probably most known for his time playing in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Throughout his twelve years in the NBA, Davis had stints with six different NBA teams including the Boston Celtics. Employee Number 12 played in one-hundred fifty games for the Celtics over the course of three seasons before being dealt to Minnesota for Wally Sczerbiak.

What many people dont know about me, is that Ricky Davis is one of my favorite athletes of all-time.

No, you did not miss read that. I repeat Ricky Davis is one of my favorite athletes of all-time. As Im writing this Im actually looking at an 810 photo of him wearing a white #12 jersey with the word CELTICS written in green across the front. The photo has been hanging in the same spot since I purchased it at the TD Garden during the 2004-2005 season.

Growing up as a Celtics fan in the 1990s and early 2000s , I did not have the privilege to witness multiple NBA championships like the rest of my family had. Maybe that was payback for the years upon years that they had to suffer through the Red Sox failures? After all, I only had to wait fourteen years to watch the Idiots win the 2004 World Series.

Instead of giving up on the home team, I took the hand I was dealt and loved the Celtics teams of the 90s and early 2000s just as much as I enjoy watching the successful teams we have had recently. Although there was the excitement of the Walker Wiggle and watching the progress made by Paul Pierce, nothing got me more excited than a Ricky Davis dunk.

I was a kid. I loved excitement. I loved Ricky Davis.

After returning home from school one day, my dad informed me of the news that Davis had been traded to the TWolves in exchange for Wally Sczerbiak. I probably used every Kleenex in the house that day. I hated the trade and I still do.

Following the trade, I tried to keep up with Ricky while yelling at the television every time Wally Sczerbiak missed on a three point attempt; however, after he left Boston, it just wasnt the same.

He went on to play for the Heat and Clippers before going overseas after the 2010 season. Every so often his name would come up as a potential target for the Boston Celtics but nothing was ever very serious.

Now, after playing overseas for the past year, Ricky Davis is following in the footsteps of former teammate Antoine Walker by making his NBA comeback attempt through the NBA D-League.

After signing a contract late last week, Davis was claimed off waivers by the Boston Celtics D-League affiliate, the Maine Red Claws, on Tuesday.

Via Ridiculous Upside

Ricky Davis averaged over 20 points per game for the Cleveland Cavlierss nine seasons ago. The 32-year-old swingman with 12 years of NBA experience will now attempt to get back to that point in his career, but his NBA comeback will begin with a stint in the D-League with the Maine Red Claws.

Davis, who bounced around overseas after being cut by the Los Angeles Clippers midway through the 2009-10 NBA season,signed an NBA Development League contract last week and was claimed off of waivers by the Red Claws on Tuesday afternoon.

Due to the fast pace of the NBA D-League, he should fit in perfectly. When players you have never heard of are throwing down amazing dunks, imagine what a former NBA Slam Dunk Contest participant could do?

It is going to be interesting to see what kind of shape Davis is in. Unlike Antoine Walker, the future member of the Maine Red Claws has been active overseas since departing from the league. If he does show up to Maine in good shape, it shouldnt be long before we see him back in the NBA.

Well keep an eye out to see if Danny Ainge is making his way to courtside seats at the Portland Expo anytime soon.

Courtesy of http://clnsradio.com

Former Jazz center Ostertag begins comeback Thursday at Frisco - by Eurobasket News
Greg Ostertag (7'2''-C-73, college: Kansas), one of the best basketball players to come out of Duncanville and an 11-year NBA veteran, will begin a comeback Thursday night with the Texas Legends that he hopes will lead to the NBA.

The National Basketball Development League team based in Frisco came to an agreement with the 7-2 Ostertag this afternoon and he will make his debut Thursday against Rio Grande Valley in a home game at Dr Pepper Arena.

He's also expected to play Friday against Tulsa.

Ostertag spent most of his NBA career with the Utah Jazz and was one of the most the best shot-blockers in the league, swatting a shot every 11.4 minutes of playing time.

'I missed playing,'' Ostertag said. 'I shouldn't have quit when I did and I feel like I got to give it one last shot to see if I can make it happen.

'I know there's a lot of naysayers out there who think I couldn't play when I was younger and how am I going to be able to play now? But I'm going to give myself a month or two to get in really good shape and see what happens.''

Ostertag toyed with the idea of making a comeback a couple of years ago, but after consulting with his family thought better of it.

By joining the Legends, Ostertag is not beholden to the Mavericks, should he show enough ability to earn a call-up to the NBA. Any team could offer him a contract.

However, the Mavericks clearly are looking for another big man. Starting center Brendan Haywood has been erratic in the first two games and the Mavericks lost out on free agent Kyrylo Fesenko, who is expected to sign with Golden State.

Ostertag last played in 2005-06, retiring at age 32. He started 22 games that season for Utah. He was a member of two NBA Finals teams in the '90s while teaming with John Stockton and Karl Malone, losing to Michael Jordan and the Bulls both seasons.

Ostertag averaged 4.2 points and 5.4 rebounds in 89 playoff games.

Courtesy of http://mavsblog.dallasnews.com

Hunter, Lazare back with Mad Ants - by Eurobasket News
The Mad Ants continued retooling their roster today with the return of Chris Hunter (6'11''-F/C-84, college: Michigan) and Darnell Lazare (6'8''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: LSU).

Hunter, Lazare and former player Sean Sonderleiter were added to the active roster. Hunter, a 6-11 center and former NBA D-League all-star with the Ants, was released by the New York Knicks after training camp. Lazare, a 6-8 forward who led the Ants in scoring last season, was in the Indiana Pacers training camp before being released. Sonderleiter, a center/forward, has been working out in Fort Wayne since the summer.

To make room for the new players, the team has released center Antonio Smith and forward Jabril Banks. Rookie forward Sadiel Rojas was also released due to injury.

The Ants now have five players who were in NBA camps: Hunter, Lazare, Ron Howard, Walker Russell Jr. and Cameron Jones.

The Ants (4-6) play at Erie on Wednesday before returning for a home game against Los Angeles at 7:30 p.m. Friday in Memorial Coliseum.

Courtesy of www.news-sentinel.com

Skyforce topped by Energy on road, 121-103 - by Eurobasket News
The 2011 NBA D-League Champion Iowa Energy's bench outscored Sioux Falls' reserves 69-20 on their way to a decisive 121-103 victory Tuesday night.

The night began very ominous for Iowa, as Sioux Falls jumped out to a 13-0 lead behind six early points from guard Casey Mitchell (6'4''-G-88, college: W.Virginia). The Energy battled back quick, as an Andrew Drevo jump shot with 39.6 seconds remaining in the quarter gave Iowa a 26-25 lead. A pair of Energy baskets to close the half put the home team up 30-25.

The 2nd quarter was more of the same for Iowa, as Michael Tveidt (6'7''-F-87, college: N.Dakota St.) scored 10 points in the stanza to help push the Energy lead to 69-50 at the break. Sioux Falls would narrow the gap to nine points in the 4th quarter, but Iowa had an answer every time the Skyforce got close. After Sioux Falls cut the lead to 106-97 with 6:05 left, Energy sharp shooter Moses Ehambe drilled a 3-pointer, and Andrew Drevo and Marqus Blakely (6'5''-F-89, college: Vermont) each scored to put the game out of reach.

Tveidt led Iowa with 24 points, while Ehambe and Blakely added 22 points each. The win extends the Energy's lead in the Eastern Conference to 1.5 games over Springfield with a 9-4 record.

Sioux Falls was led by Mitchell's 29 point effort, while Charles Garcia (6'9''-F-88, college: Seattle) added 27. The loss drops the Skyforce to 5-8 on the season.

Courtesy of www.ksfy.com

Charge put together two runs in rout of Red Claws - by Eurobasket News
A big lead all but evaporated Tuesday night.

The Canton Charge decided the best answer was to build it right back up.

The Charge righted the ship and cruised in the second half to a 106-90 NBA Development League win against Maine in front of 1,934 fans at Memorial Civic Center.

Canton saw a 22-point first-half lead whittled to three, but the Charge

(6-5) didnt panic in winning their third straight game.

'We just kept playing', Charge point guard Keith McLeod (6'3''-PG-79, college: Bowling Green) said. 'That's the thing, man. When teams make their runs, we just have to keep playing. That's how the game goes sometimes.'

McLeod scored 23 points in his first game back with the Charge after attending Utah Jazz training camp. Tyrell Biggs (6'8''-F-86, college: Pittsburgh) scored 10 of his 20 points in the third quarter as the Charge re-established control.

Head coach Alex Jensen was happy to get the win, but wants to avoid some of the hills and valleys that his team is running into. He hopes video of the first quarter, when the Charge held Maine to 21.4 percent shooting and fed offensively off their defense, sets in the consciousness of his players.

The point of it is, This is how good you guys can be. Right here, Jensen said. Its not a fluke. I think we have that capability. The ceiling is high.

McLeod, who scored 10 first-quarter points off the bench, reintroduced himself to Charge fans with a crossover dribble and driving layup that drew oohs from the crowd. He drained a 3-pointer from just over halfcourt at the first-quarter buzzer to put Canton up, 34-15.

The lead grew to 22 on Kyle Gibson (6'5''-G-87, college: Louisiana Tech) 's baseline jumper early in the second quarter. But the Charge went cold from there, making only three of their next 18 shots from the field as Maine steadily chipped away.

I think we had a little letdown with the energy, said Gibson, who scored 15 points on 5-of-7 shooting from the floor in 21 efficient minutes. But we picked it up and ended the half well. Coach talked about getting back on D because thats where they were getting most of their points from. They were getting fast-break points and getting to the free-throw line.

The Red Claws (4-7) got their deficit to three before a Dante Milligan layup and a McLeod 3 from the left wing with four seconds left had the Charge up, 52-44, at the half.

The Charge quickly got their lead back into double digits in the third as they rediscovered their shooting stroke. Gibson, T.J. Campbell and Biggs all made 3s in the frame. Maine never got back within 10 points.

The Charge made 14 of 26 3-pointers (53.8 percent), led by 3-of-3 from Gibson and 3-of-4 from Campbell, who scored 11 points.

The jump shots that come out of our transition or the extra pass when they double the post, those are the ones you want, Jensen said.

Antonio Graves (6'3''-G-85, college: Pittsburgh) scored 11 points in his Charge debut after missing the first month of the season recovering from a wrist injury. Antoine Agudio added 10 points, while Milligan grabbed a game-high 16 rebounds.

Durrell Summers (6'4''-G-89, college: Michigan St.) (Bobcats) scored 15 points and Kenny Hayes (Cavaliers) 14 for Maine in their first games back after attending NBA training camps.

Courtney Pigram, who torched the Charge for 33 points and seven 3-pointers in Maines 103-81 win Dec. 10, was held to six points. He didnt get off a 3-pointer.

Courtesy of www.cantonrep.com

Mason Jr. named D-League Performer of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Anthony Mason Jr. (6'7''-F-87, college: St.John's) of the Sioux Falls Skyforce was today named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played Dec 19-25.

For the week, the 6-7, 205-pound forward out of St. Johns averaged 21.0 points on 51 percent shooting, to go with 7.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists, as the Skyforce went 2-1.

Mason Jr. registered his first double-double of the season, finishing with 22 points and 12 rebounds as the Skyforce defeated Springfield, 103-99 on Sunday, Dec. 25, the teams third game in four nights. Mason tallied 23 points, six rebounds, three assists and three blocks in a 104-95 loss to Canton on Friday, Dec. 23. He opened the week with 19 points on 8-for-13 shooting in a 100-96 win over Fort Wayne on Thursday, Dec. 22. For the season, Mason Jr. is averaging 16.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists.

Courtesy of www.keloland.com

D-Fenders reacquire three NBA training camp participants - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles D-Fenders have reacquired NBA training camp participants Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, agency: Interperformances, college: UAB), Zachary Andrews (6'8''-F/C-85, college: Bradley) and Courtney Fortson (5'11''-SG-88, college: Arkansas), it was announced today. Millsap and Andrews, members of the Los Angeles Lakers preseason roster, were two of a D-League high six D-Fenders players in NBA training camps along with Fortson, a member of the Los Angeles Clippers preseason roster.

Millsap, who was acquired by the D-Fenders in a trade with the Tulsa 66ers earlier this year, averaged a team-high 23.2 points (.510 FG%, .526 3FG%), 7.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 3.50 steals in six D-League games with Los Angeles.

Andrews, who made the D-Fenders' roster earlier this year as D-League local tryout player, averaged 11.1 points (.603 FG%) and 8.9 rebounds in eight games (all starts) with the D-Fenders.

Fortson, selected by the D-Fenders in the fifth round of the 2011 NBA Development League Draft, averaged 17.3 points (.551 FG%, .600 3FG%), 4.4 rebounds and 4.9 assists off the bench in eight D-League games.

In adding Millsap, Andrews and Fortson, the D-Fenders accordingly waived Gerard Anderson (8.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 1.7 APG), Jordan Brady (7.2 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 1.5 APG), Anthony Coleman (1.0 PPG, 0.7 RPG, 0.0 BPG) and Larry Cunningham (0.6 PPG, 1.0 RPG, 0.4 APG). The roster now stands at nine as the team continues its current four-game road trip with the Erie Bayhawks next up on December 29th at 7:00 p.m. CST.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Iowa E.		9-4
2. Springfield A.		7-5
3. Canton C.		6-5
4. Sioux Falls S.		5-8
5. Dakota W.		4-6
6. Ft.Wayne MA		4-6
7. Maine RC		4-7
8. Erie Bay H.		4-8
West Conference
1. Los Angeles D.		8-6
2. Austin T.		7-3
3. Bakersfield J.		7-4
4. Tulsa 66ers		7-4
5. Rio Grande VV		7-6
6. Reno B.		5-6
7. Idaho S.		5-7
8. Texas L.		4-8

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Blake AHEARN
  Reno B.
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 25.9

1. Ahearn, Reno B.	25.9
2. Costner, Los A.	25.1
3. Sloan, Erie Bay H.	24.8
4. Millsap, Los A.	23.2
5. Pigram, Maine RC	22.5
6. Dentmon, Austin T.	22.4
7. Biggs, Canton C.	21.3
8. Garcia, Sioux F.	21.1
9. Jones, Ft.Wayne MA	20.5
10. Mitchell, Sioux F.	20.2

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus LEWIS
  Tulsa 66ers
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 13

1. Lewis, Tulsa 66ers	13.0
2. Butch, Bakersfi.	12.5
3. Milligan, Canton C.	11.6
4. Daniels, Erie B.	11.4
5. Harris, Maine RC	11.2
6. Famous, Iowa E.	11.0
7. Brown, Springfield	9.9
8. Thomas, Reno B.	9.6
9. Ojougboh, Tulsa	9.2
10. Palmer, Bakersfi.	9.0

Assists Per Game

Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne.
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	10.8
2. Sloan, Erie Bay H.	8.4
3. Cooksey, Texas L.	8.0
4. Tinsley, Los A.	7.6
5. Coleman, Sioux F.	7.5
6. Ewing, Iowa E.	7.0
7. Ahearn, Reno B.	6.8
8. Harris, Maine RC	6.2
9. Bozeman, Reno B.	6.2
10. Curry, Springfiel.	6.0

Steals Per Game

Elijah MILLSAP
  Los A.
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Millsap, Los A.	3.5
2. Curry, Springfield	2.8
3. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	2.4
4. Tinsley, Los A.	2.4
5. Fortson, Los A.	2.1
6. Harris, Rio G.	2.1
7. Thompson, Erie B.	2.0
8. Smith, Springfield	2.0
9. Braimoh, Rio G.	2.0
10. Harris, Maine RC	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Gregory STIEMSMA
  Sioux F.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Stiemsma, Sioux F.	4.5
2. Foster, Idaho S.	3.5
3. Daniels, Erie B.	2.2
4. Thompson, Erie B.	2.0
5. Tisdale, Maine RC	1.9
6. Ojougboh, Tulsa	1.8
7. Gladness, Dakota	1.8
8. Dove, Dakota W.	1.7
9. Major, Bakersfi.	1.7
10. Anderson, Dakota	1.6

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

EUROCUP

Hansbrough to Novo Mesto? - by Philip Mulryne
According to talkbasket.net; the American guard Ben Hansbrough, who is recently released from Bayern is close to Slovenian Krka Novo Mesto. Defending Eurochallange champions got through to the Last 16 stage of Eurocup and placed in a difficult group with Spartak, Banvit and Buducnost. Hansbrough did not have much time at Bayern, recorded 5.5 pts. average. He was named as last years' Big East Player of the Year.

Pape Sy return possible for Gravelines - by Philip Mulryne
According to llepharedunkerquois.fr, Pape Sy (201-G-88) will return to BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral if he does not a contract with an NBA team until Jan 13. Sy signed one year contract for the French team with an NBA option. He started the season with BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral and could leave only for an NBA team though, then actually did it after the lock out ended. However, he did not make the cut for Atlanta Hawks, therefore can return to Europe again. The team is having a great season with only one loss in the bag while getting through to Last 16 stage and domestically 11-2 win/loss count. They recently had important an addition:J.R. Reynolds (188-G-84, agency: SportsTalent, college: Virginia). Pape Sy was brought up at the youth ranks of Le Havre and drafted by Atlanta Hawks at 2010. He is also a member of French U20 team at 2008, Slovenia.

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

EUROLEAGUE

Dainius Salenga back to Zalgiris - by Eurobasket News
Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) returned to Zalgiris Kaunas. The veteran forward penned a deal for rest of the season, including the option for 2012/13. Salenga started it with Rupidis averaging 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists for 6 games in EuroCup. He had pretty close numbers in LKL and Baltic league as well. Dainius Salenga played for Zalgiris from 2007 until January this year, when they parted ways, and before that from 2000 to 2005. Last season he averaged 4.8 points and 1.6 rebounds for 10 Euroleague games. In LKL he added 7.2 ppg and 1.8 rpg. Salenga won five LKL and three Baltic league titles with Zalgiris. He played for the Lithuanian NT from 2003 to 2005. He helped them win the EuroBasket Gold in Sweden (2003).

Top 16 Draw results - by Eurobasket News
The 16 teams still alive in the Turkish Airlines Euroleague learned what the road they must travel to fight for European basketballs ultimate prize looks like on Wednesday at the Top 16 Draw in Barcelona, Spain. Representatives for the teams that survived the grueling regular season watched as their clubs were drawn into four groups of four teams that were headed by the regular season group winners: Fenerbahce Ulker, CSKA Moscow, Real Madrid and regal FC Barcelona. And they all have the same goal; Arriving in Istanbul in May with the chance to win two more games and enter the history books as European champions! Every group will feature six games per team in a round-robin setup from January 16 through March 1. The teams with the best two records in each Top 16 group advance to the Playoffs, best-of-five series held between March 21 and April 5. The four Playoffs winners move on to the Final Four, May 11 and 13 at Sinan Erdem Arena in Istanbul, Turkey, where this season's Euroleague champion will be crowned. The draw was attended by representatives from all 16 participating teams as well as by Euroleague Basketball sponsors, representatives of the Turkish Basketball Federation and media members from across Europe. The draw was also broadcast on local TV and via Euroleague.net to audiences around the world.

GROUP E
CSKA Moscow
Olympiacos Piraeus BC
Anadolu Efes
GS Medical Park

GROUP F
Real Madrid
Montepaschi Siena
Unicaja
Gescrap BB

GROUP G
Fenerbahce Ulker
Panathinaikos Athens
Unics Kazan
EA7 Emporio Armani

GROUP H
FC Barcelona Regal
Maccabi Electra
Bennet Cantu
Zalgiris Kaunas

SCHEDULE

Courtesy of Euroleague

Maccabi Electra officially confirms Demond Mallet - by Eurobasket News
Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) officially became a new member of Maccabi Electra. The player signed a deal for rest of the season, including an option for the 2012/13. Mallet played his last game for Charleroi a week ago and their rival was Maccabi. The American scored 13 points in this meeting and Charleroi faced with 69-86 home loss. Demond Mallet appeared 12 times in Euroleague this season (including qualifications) averaging 16.6 points, 3.1 assists and 2.3 rebounds. He also added 16.3 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.8 apg 10 games in Belgian championship. Demond Mallet led Charleroi to Belgian league title last season. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Player of the Year -11. In the past, Mallet played for Turk Telekom, Joventut, Koln and Bamberg. Maccabi Electra is placed to Group H of the Top 16 phase and their rivals will be Barcelona, Cantu and Zalgiris.

Standings

Euroleague Stage Two Standings

Group E
1. Anadolu Efes			0-0
2. CSKA			0-0
3. Galatasaray			0-0
4. Olympiakos			0-0
Group F
1. Gescrap BB			0-0
2. Montepaschi			0-0
3. Real Madrid			0-0
4. Unicaja			0-0
Group G
1. Armani MI			0-0
2. Fener.Ulker			0-0
3. Panathinaikos			0-0
4. Unics			0-0
Group H
1. Bennet Cantu			0-0
2. FCB Regal			0-0
3. Maccabi T-A			0-0
4. Zalgiris			0-0

Stage One Standings

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

FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: YMCA Lahti upset Kataja - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 19-20: The Xmas break is over. But some teams had still thoughts in Christmas. Otherwise it's very difficult to understand for instance this: # 1 Team Kataja (Joensuu), undefeated at home and winning 12 games in a row hosting vs YMCA Lahti (# 11) with 2-16 record and no victories on the road. And what happened? Kataja didn't win a quarter, but YMCA Lahti giving Kataja a lesson they will remember a long time: Visitor Lahti winning 72-94 (40-49)! Brant Bailey (202-F-77, college: Wisc.-Stevens Point) led YMCA Lahti with 27 pts. Malik Moore (192-G-77, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Amer.Internat.) added 20 pts and Ryan Brooks (193-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Temple) 16 pts.
At Kouvola local Kouvot scored 52 points vs Pyrinto (Tampere) during the first half. Kouvot was ahead by 22 pts (52-30). Pyrinto's Head Coach Pieti Poikola didn't save words in the locker room and that helped. Kouvot scored tiny 14 (7+7) points during the second half, but even that was enough, when the clock saved the hosts and Kouvot won 66-63.
Anthony Brown (203-F-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Oklahoma St.) led Kouvot with 18 pts. Josh Gonner (188-G-82, college: S.Carolina) added 17 pts and Atte Perttu (202-C-90) netted his season high 12 pts. Visitor's Antero Lehto (184-G-84) missed his all six shots and Damon Williams (201-F-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) was 2/12 on the field.
At Salo Vilpas and Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) needed an OT before 1340 spectators were more than happy to see Vilpas winning 90-86 (77) (37-43). It was Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86, college: Illinois St.), who helped Vilpas into OT and him + newcomer Allen Durham (198-F-88, college: Grace Bible), who were the game MVPs. Durham's start was impressive: 27pts/19rbs! Korihait (Uusikaupunki) lost at home vs Bisons (Loimaa) 66-74 (39-38) and YMCA Lappeenranta with six players in 10-17 points defeated Karhu (Kauhajoki) 81-72 (44-31). Very interesting evening and round!
Kataja - YMCA Lahti 72-94 (40-49). (Sami Lehtoranta 20, Petri Virtanen 17, Jared Newson 15/11 - Brant Bailey 27, Malik Moore 20, Ryan Brooks 16. A: 953).
Kouvot - Pyrinto 66-63 (52-30). (Anthony Brown 18, Josh Gonner 17, Atte Perttu 12 - Kenneth Lowe 23, Antwine Williams 22/10, Antti Nikkila 9 . A: 1085).
Vilpas - ToPo OT 90-86 (77) (37-43). (Emmanuel Holloway 29, Allen Durham 27/19, John Fields 14/11 - Chase Griffin 24, Corey McIntosh 19/6a, Kimmo Muurinen 14. A: 1340).
Korihait - Bisons 66-74 (39-38). (Shawn Vanzant 19, Cory Johnson 18, Nigel Moore 10 - Martin Zeno 23/11, Jeb Ivey 10, Matti Nuutinen 9. A: 1208).
YMCA Lappeenranta - Karhu 81-72 (44-31). (Tyler Tiedeman 17, Lawrence Hamm 15/13, Matias Ojala 15 - Kelly Beidler 18, Todd Hendley 14, Vesa Makalainen 12. A: 632).

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Kataja		16-4
2. Nilan Bisons		13-4
3. Pyrinto		12-6
4. ToPo		11-8
5. Kauhajoki		11-8
6. Kouvot		9-9
7. LrNMKY		8-11
8. Korihait		8-11
9. Salon Vilpas		7-12
10. KTP		5-14
11. Namika Lahti		3-16

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Martin ZENO
  Nilan Bisons
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 21.8

1. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	21.8
2. Blue, KTP	21.4
3. Crocker, KTP	21.3
4. Holloway, Salon V.	20.8
5. Beidler, Kauhajoki	19.9
6. Newson, Kataja	18.2
7. Brooks, Namika L.	18.1
8. Tiedeman, LrNM.	17.8
9. Hamm, LrNM.	17.6
10. Griffin, ToPo	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	14.1
2. Blue, KTP	11.6
3. Newson, Kataja	9.2
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	9.2
5. Hairston, Salon V.	8.7
6. McDade, Nilan B.	8.6
7. Williams, Pyrinto	8.2
8. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	8.2
9. Nikkila, Pyrinto	8.1
10. Hamm, LrNM.	7.8

Assists Per Game

Jeb IVEY
  Nilan Bisons
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 5

1. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	5.0
2. Williams, Pyrinto	4.3
3. Hannah, Kauhajoki	4.3
4. Sarcevic, KTP	4.1
5. Virtanen, Kataja	3.9
6. Haynes, LrNM.	3.9
7. Moore, Namika L.	3.9
8. McIntosh, ToPo	3.8
9. Walker, Kataja	3.7
10. Nikkarinen, Kouvot	3.3

Steals Per Game

Juha STEN
  Kataja
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Sten, Kataja	2.5
2. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.3
3. Williams, Pyrinto	2.3
4. Moore, Korihait	2.3
5. Crocker, KTP	2.0
6. Newson, Kataja	2.0
7. Moore, Namika L.	1.8
8. Holloway, Salon V.	1.8
9. Haynes, LrNM.	1.8
10. McIntosh, ToPo	1.7

Blocks Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	2.4
2. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.1
3. Hairston, Salon V.	1.3
4. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	1.0
5. Jones, Nilan Bisons	0.9
6. Lehtoranta, Kataja	0.9
7. McDade, Nilan B.	0.8
8. Blue, KTP	0.8
9. Price, Kataja	0.8
10. Bell, KTP	0.7

Korisliiga Round 21: #1 Joensuun Kataja is defeated by Namika Lahti - by Eurobasket News
There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with defeat of the leader, extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Joensuun Kataja (16-4) at the home court on Wednesday night. Hosts were rolled over by eleventh ranked Namika Lahti (3-16) 94-72. It ended at the same time the 12-game winning streak of Joensuun Kataja. The game without a history. Namika Lahti led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American forward Brant Bailey (202-77, college: Wisc.-Stevens Point) stepped up and scored 27 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import guard Malik Moore (192-77, college: Amer.Internat., agency: Prossin Sports Management) chipped in 20 points and 6 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). The best for the losing side was the former international power forward Sami Lehtoranta (205-79) with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Namika Lahti maintains eleventh place with 3-16 record. Joensuun Kataja at the other side still keeps top position with four games lost. Namika Lahti are looking forward to face higher ranked LrNMKY (#7) in Lappeenranta in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Joensuun Kataja will have a break next round.
Important game to mention about took place in Kouvola. Sixth ranked Kouvot (9-9) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 3rd placed Tampereen Pyrinto (12-6) 66-63 on Wednesday evening. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St., agency: KMG Sports Management) nailed 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and Josh Gonner accounted for 17 points. Forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds for Tampereen Pyrinto in the defeat. Tampereen Pyrinto's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kouvot maintains sixth place with 9-9 record. Defending champion Tampereen Pyrinto keeps the third position with six games lost. Kouvot will play against higher ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (#5) in Kauhajoki in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tampereen Pyrinto will play at home against Salon Vilpas and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Kauhajoen Karhu (#5) was upset in Lappeenranta by eighth ranked LrNMKY 81-72. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was Lawrence Hamm who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Kelly Beidler who recorded 18 points and 8 rebounds. LrNMKY (8-11) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Korihait. Loser Kauhajoen Karhu dropped to the fourth position with eight games lost. They share it with ToPo. LrNMKY will meet bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (#11) on the road in the next round. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Salon Vilpas (7-12) outlasted Torpan Pojat (11-8) in overtime by four points 90-86. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Torpan Pojat. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for Allen Durham who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 19 rebounds. Salon Vilpas maintains ninth place with 7-12 record. Torpan Pojat at the other side keeps the fourth position with eight games lost. Salon Vilpas' next round opponent will be higher ranked Tampereen Pyrinto (#3) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Torpan Pojat will play against UU-Korihait in Uusikaupunki.
The game in Uusikaupunki was also quite interesting. Second ranked Loimaan Korikonkarit (13-4) played at the court of 7th ranked UU-Korihait (8-11). Loimaan Korikonkarit managed to secure a 8-point victory 74-66 on Wednesday. The game was also dominated by American players. Martin Zeno stepped up with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Loimaan Korikonkarit have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 13-4 record having 3 victories less than leader Kataja. Loser UU-Korihait keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. Loimaan Korikonkarit will face KTP-Basket (#10) in Kotka in the next round and are hoping to win another game. UU-Korihait will play on the road against Torpan Pojat in Helsinki.

Kouvot - Pyrinto 66-63

Important game to mention about took place in Kouvola. Sixth ranked Kouvot (9-9) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 3rd placed Tampereen Pyrinto (12-6) 66-63 on Wednesday evening. The hosts were already 15 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 19-7 Tampereen Pyrinto's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 66-63 at the end of the game. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St., agency: KMG Sports Management) nailed 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and guard Josh Gonner (188-82, college: S.Carolina) accounted for 17 points. Four Kouvot players scored in double figures. Forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and guard Kenneth Lowe (192-80, college: Purdue) added 23 points (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) respectively for Tampereen Pyrinto in the defeat. Tampereen Pyrinto's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Kouvot maintains sixth place with 9-9 record. Defending champion Tampereen Pyrinto keeps the third position with six games lost. Kouvot will play against higher ranked Kauhajoen Karhu (#5) in Kauhajoki in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tampereen Pyrinto will play at home against Salon Vilpas and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Pyrinto: K.Lowe 23+3reb+2ast, A.Williams 22+10reb+1ast, A.Nikkila 9+7reb+1ast, D.Williams 6+12reb+2ast, N.Mattila 3, O.Heinonen 0
Kouvot: A.Brown 18+7reb+2ast, J.Gonner 17+3reb+2ast, A.Perttu 12+4reb+2ast, A.Akpaso 11+1reb+1ast, A.Nikkarinen 5+6reb+4ast, A.Jordan 3+8reb+1ast

Salon Vilpas - ToPo 90-86 OT

Salon Vilpas (7-12) outlasted Torpan Pojat (11-8) in overtime by four points 90-86. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Torpan Pojat. Torpan Pojat was ahead by 4 points after three quarters before a 23-19 charge of Salon Vilpas, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 13-9. Salon Vilpas dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Torpan Pojat's 48. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for forward Allen Durham (198-88, college: Grace Bible) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 27 points and 19 rebounds. Guard Emmanuel Holloway (188-86, college: Illinois St.) contributed with 29 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Durham is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Guard Corey McIntosh (183-85, college: Iowa St., agency: Court Side) answered with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists and guard Chase Griffin (188-83, college: Pepperdine) added 24 points in the effort for Torpan Pojat. Five Torpan Pojat players scored in double figures. Salon Vilpas maintains ninth place with 7-12 record. Torpan Pojat at the other side keeps the fourth position with eight games lost. Salon Vilpas' next round opponent will be higher ranked Tampereen Pyrinto (#3) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Torpan Pojat will play against UU-Korihait in Uusikaupunki.
Top scorers:
ToPo: C.Griffin 24+3reb+2ast, C.McIntosh 19+7reb+6ast, K.Muurinen 14+5reb, C.Lindbom 11+7reb+1ast, H.Mottola 11+6reb+3ast, T.Heinonen 5+7reb+1ast
Salon Vilpas: E.Holloway 29+6reb+4ast, A.Durham 27+19reb+2ast, J.Fields 14+11reb, A.Vaenerberg 8+3reb+1ast, K.Brace 5, R.Ahonen 3+2reb+4ast

Korihait - Nilan Bisons 66-74

The game in Uusikaupunki was also quite interesting. Second ranked Loimaan Korikonkarit (13-4) played at the court of 7th ranked UU-Korihait (8-11). Loimaan Korikonkarit managed to secure a 8-point victory 74-66 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 36-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. The game was also dominated by American players. Guard Martin Zeno (196-85, college: Texas Tech) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and forward Ryan McDade (201-80, college: N.Arizona) chipped in 8 points and 10 rebounds. The best for the losing side was forward Cory Johnson (200-88, college: Valparaiso, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) with 18 points and 7 rebounds and point guard Shawn Vanzant (183-88, college: Butler) scored 19 points. Loimaan Korikonkarit have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 13-4 record having 3 victories less than leader Kataja. Loser UU-Korihait keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. Loimaan Korikonkarit will face KTP-Basket (#10) in Kotka in the next round and are hoping to win another game. UU-Korihait will play on the road against Torpan Pojat in Helsinki.
Top scorers:
Korihait: S.Vanzant 19+1reb+1ast, C.Johnson 18+7reb+1ast, N.Moore 10+9reb+1ast, P.Heinonen 8+10reb+1ast, P.Rainamaa 7+4reb+2ast, M.Jalonen 4+2reb+2ast
Nilan Bisons: M.Zeno 23+11reb+2ast, J.Ivey 10+3reb+4ast, M.Nuutinen 9+4reb+1ast, M.Koivisto 8+6reb+1ast, R.McDade 8+10reb+1ast, C.Jones 7+4reb+1ast

Kataja - Namika Lahti 72-94

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Joensuun Kataja (16-4) at the home court on Wednesday night. Hosts were rolled over by eleventh ranked Namika Lahti (3-16) 94-72. It ended at the same time the 12-game winning streak of Joensuun Kataja. The game without a history. Namika Lahti led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American forward Brant Bailey (202-77, college: Wisc.-Stevens Point) stepped up and scored 27 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import guard Malik Moore (192-77, college: Amer.Internat., agency: Prossin Sports Management) chipped in 20 points and 6 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Bailey is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. The best for the losing side was the former international power forward Sami Lehtoranta (205-79) with 20 points and 9 rebounds and American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tenn-Martin, agency: Pro One Sports) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Namika Lahti maintains eleventh place with 3-16 record. Joensuun Kataja at the other side still keeps top position with four games lost. Namika Lahti are looking forward to face higher ranked LrNMKY (#7) in Lappeenranta in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Joensuun Kataja will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Kataja: S.Lehtoranta 20+9reb+3ast, P.Virtanen 17+2reb+3ast, J.Newson 15+11reb+1ast, J.Price 11+4reb, B.Walker 5+3reb+1ast, L.Hintsala 2+1reb
Namika Lahti: B.Bailey 27+7reb+2ast, M.Moore 20+4reb+6ast, R.Brooks 16+6reb+4ast, V.Makalainen 13+10reb+7ast, J.Vanttaja 8+3reb, J.Koskinen 5

LrNMKY - Kauhajoki 81-72

Kauhajoen Karhu (#5) was upset in Lappeenranta by eighth ranked LrNMKY 81-72. Kauhajoen Karhu trailed by 13 points at halftime and as many as 15 after three quarters before a 21-15 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 72-81 at the end of the game. LrNMKY outrebounded Kauhajoen Karhu 39-24 including 27 on the defensive glass. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was forward Lawrence Hamm (198-84, college: Towson, agency: Court Side) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds. Guard DeAndre Haynes (187-84, college: Kent St., agency: Court Side) chipped in 13 points and 7 assists. Five LrNMKY players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Kelly Beidler (199-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's, agency: R.H.Consultancy) who recorded 18 points and 8 rebounds and forward Todd Hendley (206-84, college: NC-Wilmington) added 14 points and 6 rebounds respectively. LrNMKY (8-11) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Korihait. Loser Kauhajoen Karhu dropped to the fourth position with eight games lost. They share it with ToPo. LrNMKY will meet bottom-ranked Namika Lahti (#11) on the road in the next round. Kauhajoen Karhu will play against Kouvot (#6) in Kouvola and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kauhajoki: K.Beidler 18+8reb+1ast, T.Hendley 14+6reb+1ast, V.Makalainen 12+2reb+2ast, C.Hannah 9+2reb+5ast, E.Skamo 8+1reb, A.Huuskonen 4+3reb
LrNMKY: T.Tiedeman 17+3reb+3ast, M.Ojala 15+5reb, L.Hamm 15+13reb, D.Haynes 13+4reb+7ast, J.Jarvinen 11+4reb+5ast, P.Riihela 10+10reb+2ast

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

FRANCE

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

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

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

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

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-T.
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 23.2

1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	23.2
2. Chatfield, Paris-.	21.5
3. Rochestie, Le Mans	20.5
4. Parker, AS.	20.3
5. Cox, Le Havre	18.2
6. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	17.5
7. Nelson, Cholet	17.3
8. Batum, Nancy	17.1
9. Morlende, Hyeres-T.	17.1
10. Hamilton, Paris-.	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Chinemelu ELONU
  Pau-Lacq.
  (206-F/C-87)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	8.4
2. Akingbala, Nancy	8.1
3. Hamilton, Paris-.	8.0
4. Aminu, Chalon	7.4
5. Allen, Strasbourg	7.2
6. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.	6.8
7. Sommerville, Le Ma.	6.8
8. Armstrong, AS.	6.8
9. Falker, Cholet	6.8
10. Greer, Strasbourg	6.8

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon	9.5
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	6.8
3. Parker, AS.	6.3
4. Wise, Le Havre	6.2
5. Linehan, Nancy	5.6
6. Pellin, Orleans	5.5
7. Barrett, Roanne	5.1
8. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	4.9
9. Dixon, Dijon	4.8
10. Schilb, Chalon	4.5

Steals Per Game

Mykal RILEY
  Nanterre
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Riley, Nanterre	2.2
2. Batum, Nancy	2.1
3. Linehan, Nancy	2.1
4. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	2.1
5. Acker, Le Mans	2.1
6. Albicy, Gravelines	2.1
7. Wise, Le Havre	2.0
8. Melody, Dijon	2.0
9. Sangare, Orleans	1.8
10. Krupalija, Hyeres.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Ronny TURIAF
  AS.
  (208-C/F-83)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Turiaf, AS.	1.8
2. Gobert, Cholet	1.3
3. Akingbala, Nancy	1.3
4. Issa, Gravelines	1.2
5. Falker, Cholet	1.2
6. Batum, Nancy	1.1
7. Williams, Paris-.	1.1
8. Jackson, Roanne	1.1
9. Nichols, Cholet	1.0
10. Sy, Orleans	0.8

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Chris MCCRAY
  Boulogne
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 19.5

1. McCray, Boulogne	19.5
2. Denave, St Vallier	18.9
3. Sonko, Bourg	18.5
4. Davis, Le Portel	18.3
5. Paelay, Quimper	17.9
6. Siggers, Rouen	16.9
7. Gay, Fos Ouest	16.3
8. Wood, Evreux	15.9
9. Barro, Bourg	15.9
10. McKenzie, Boulaz.	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.5

1. Massie, Limoges	11.5
2. Wood, Evreux	11.4
3. Rossiter, Denain	9.7
4. Monroe, Boulazac	9.5
5. Osby, Maurienne	9.4
6. Badiane, Antibes	9.3
7. Allen, Antibes	9.0
8. Barro, Bourg	9.0
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.7
10. Prowell, St Valli.	8.3

Assists Per Game

Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Taylor, Le Portel	7.4
2. Copeland, Bourg	5.8
3. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.6
4. Denave, St Vallier	5.5
5. Rowland, Evreux	5.4
6. Sauret, Lille	5.1
7. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.1
8. Darrigand, Bordeaux	5.1
9. Patiejunas, Rouen	5.0
10. Mouillard, Quimper	4.8

Steals Per Game

Armand CHARLES
  Nantes
  (193-SF-83)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Charles, Nantes	2.7
2. McCray, Boulogne	2.6
3. Paelay, Quimper	2.5
4. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.3
5. James, Denain	2.2
6. Eito, Vichy	2.1
7. Mullins, Chalons-.	2.0
8. Denave, St Vallier	2.0
9. Prowell, St Vallier	2.0
10. Flowers, Vichy	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-PF-82)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.7
2. Badiane, Antibes	1.6
3. Osby, Maurienne	1.1
4. Daniels, Chalons-.	1.1
5. Massie, Limoges	1.0
6. Prowell, St Vallier	1.0
7. Barro, Bourg	0.9
8. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9
9. Badiane, Nantes	0.9
10. James, Denain	0.9

JL Bourg Basket sign Jamelle Cornley - by Eurobasket Center
JL Bourg Basket (ProB) signed 24-year old American forward Jamelle Cornley (196-F-87, college: Penn St.). In his first game he scored 4 points and grabbed 3 rebounds helping his new team beat Evreux 84-55. Cornley played most recently at Hapoel Lev Hasharon (Israel). While playing 11 games for Lev Hasharon this season he averaged 17.0ppg, 7.3rpg and 1.6apg. Cornley is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Argentina, Israel, Ukraine and Uruguay. Cornley graduated The Pennsylvania State University in 2009 and actually missed last season. It will be his third season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

ProA Round 13: Top-ranked Chalon/Saor wins another game - by Eurobasket News
ProA top team - Chalon/Saor (11-2) added another victory to their record on Tuesday. This time they beat seventh ranked Chorale de Roanne (6-6) 76-69. Chorale de Roanne trailed by 16 points at halftime and as many as 20 after three quarters before a 24-11 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 69-76 at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Steed Tchicamboud (193-81) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 9 rebounds. American guard Malcolm Delaney (191-89, college: Virginia Tech) contributed with 17 points and 5 assists for the winners. Chalon/Saor's coach Gregor Beugnot used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American swingman John Holland (195-88, college: Boston U.) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds (made all of his nine free throws !!!) for Chorale de Roanne. Chalon/Saor have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 11-2 record, which they share with Gravelines. Chorale de Roanne at the other side keeps the seventh position with six games lost. Chalon/Saor is looking forward to face Hyeres-Toulon (#15) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Chorale de Roanne will play against Pau-Lacq-Orthez (#14) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Important game to mention about took place in JDA Dijon. Sixth ranked Entente Orleans 45 (8-5) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging 9th ranked JDA Dijon (6-7) 64-63 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of JDA Dijon. American players dominated the game. Forward David Monds (205-83, college: Oklahoma St.) stepped up and scored 20 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and Brian Greene chipped in 8 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side point guard Bobby Dixon (178-83, college: Troy, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 26 points and 7 rebounds. JDA Dijon's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Entente Orleans 45 maintains sixth place with 8-5 record. Newly promoted JDA Dijon dropped to the eighth position with seven games lost. They share it with ASVEL. Entente Orleans 45 will play against STB Le Havre (#12) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. JDA Dijon will play against ASVEL (#8) in Villeurbanne and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very close game took place in Pau between Pau-Lacq-Orthez and ASVEL. Fourteenth ranked Pau-Lacq-Orthez (4-9) got a very close home victory over higher ranked ASVEL (6-7). Pau-Lacq-Orthez managed to escape with a 1-point win 92-91 on Tuesday evening. Chinemelu Elonu nailed 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Pau-Lacq-Orthez's coach Laurent Vila allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Hilton Armstrong came up with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds for ASVEL in the defeat. Pau-Lacq-Orthez moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Le Havre and Nanterre. Loser ASVEL keeps the eighth position with seven games lost. They share it with Dijon. Pau-Lacq-Orthez will meet higher ranked Chorale de Roanne (#7) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. ASVEL will play against JDA Dijon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between fourth ranked Le Mans (10-3) and 5th ranked Paris-Levallois (9-4) in Le Mans ended with biggest points difference. Le Mans outscored guests from Levallois 99-76. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Paris-Levallois. American players dominated also this game. Taylor Rochestie fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists for the winners. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Le Mans. They maintain fourth place with 10-3 record. Paris-Levallois at the other side keeps the fifth position with four games lost. Le Mans' next round opponent will be Cholet (#11) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Paris-Levallois will play against Poitiers (#16).

Other games in round 13 were not that significant. Le Havre beat Nanterre on the road 86-69. Gravelines destroyed Strasbourg on its own court 74-54. Nancy managed to outperform Hyeres-Toulon in a road game 97-84. Bottom-ranked Poitiers recorded a loss to Cholet at home 69-76.

Nanterre - Le Havre 69-86

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when thirteenth ranked STB Le Havre (4-9) beat on the road 12th ranked JSF Nanterre (4-9) 86-69. The game without a history. STB Le Havre led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 23-of-28 charity shots (82.1 percent) during the game, while JSF Nanterre only scored seven points from the stripe. 25 personal fouls committed by JSF Nanterre helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American-Venezuelan guard John Cox (195-81, college: USF) fired 23 points for the winners. American guard Nic Wise (178-87, college: Arizona) chipped in 21 points and 4 assists (made all of his eight free throws). Five STB Le Havre players scored in double figures. Guard Marc Judith (192-87) produced 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and American forward Mykal Riley (198-85, college: Alabama) added 14 points and 6 assists respectively for lost side. JSF Nanterre's coach tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. STB Le Havre moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Pau-Lacq-Orthez and Nanterre. STB Le Havre's next round opponent will be higher ranked Entente Orleans 45 (#6) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Nanterre: M.Judith 15+5reb+5ast, M.Riley 14+3reb+6ast, W.Daniels 12+2reb+2ast, S.Brun 8+8reb+1ast, L.Akono 7+1reb+4ast, J.Passave-Ducteil 5+6reb+1ast
Le Havre: J.Cox 23+3reb, N.Wise 21+1reb+4ast, G.Jenkins 12+10reb, N.Pope 11+4reb+2ast, B.Boddicker 10+4reb+3ast, C.Leonard 6+10reb

Pau-Lacq-Orthez - ASVEL 92-91

A very close game took place in Pau between Pau-Lacq-Orthez and ASVEL. Fourteenth ranked Pau-Lacq-Orthez (4-9) got a very close home victory over higher ranked ASVEL (6-7). Pau-Lacq-Orthez managed to escape with a 1-point win 92-91 on Tuesday evening. The hosts trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 29-23 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Pau-Lacq-Orthez looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Nigerian power forward Chinemelu Elonu (206-87, college: Texas A&M) nailed 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winning side and American guard Allan Ray (188-84, college: Villanova) accounted for 17 points and 7 assists. Pau-Lacq-Orthez's coach Laurent Vila allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American power forward Hilton Armstrong (208-84, college: Connecticut) came up with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds and international guard Edwin Jackson (191-89) added 19 points respectively for ASVEL in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Pau-Lacq-Orthez moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Le Havre and Nanterre. Loser ASVEL keeps the eighth position with seven games lost. They share it with Dijon. Pau-Lacq-Orthez will meet higher ranked Chorale de Roanne (#7) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. ASVEL will play against JDA Dijon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
ASVEL: P.Goss 21+2ast, E.Jackson 19+2reb+2ast, K.Tillie 13+5reb+2ast, L.Westermann 12+1reb+4ast, H.Armstrong 11+12reb+3ast, D.Thompson 9+7reb+6ast
Pau-Lacq-Orthez: C.Elonu 18+7reb+3ast, T.Gipson 17+5reb+4ast, A.Ray 17+3reb+7ast, M.Maravic 11+2reb+2ast, J.Morency 9+2reb+1ast, C.Marquis 9+5reb

Roanne - Chalon 69-76

ProA top team - Chalon/Saor (11-2) added another victory to their record on Tuesday. This time they beat seventh ranked Chorale de Roanne (6-6) 76-69. Chorale de Roanne trailed by 16 points at halftime and as many as 20 after three quarters before a 24-11 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 69-76 at the end of the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Steed Tchicamboud (193-81) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 9 rebounds. American guard Malcolm Delaney (191-89, college: Virginia Tech) contributed with 17 points and 5 assists for the winners. Five Chalon/Saor players scored in double figures. Chalon/Saor's coach Gregor Beugnot used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American swingman John Holland (195-88, college: Boston U.) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds (made all of his nine free throws !!!) and Nigerian power forward Uche Nsonwu-Amadi (208-78, college: Wyoming, agency: Beo Basket) added 11 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Chorale de Roanne. Chalon/Saor have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 11-2 record, which they share with Gravelines. Chorale de Roanne at the other side keeps the seventh position with six games lost. Chalon/Saor is looking forward to face Hyeres-Toulon (#15) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Chorale de Roanne will play against Pau-Lacq-Orthez (#14) and is hoping to prove to their supporters that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Roanne: J.Holland 22+11reb+3ast, U.Nsonwu-Amadi 11+8reb, P.Braud 8+1reb, M.Diabate 7+1reb+1ast, A.Barrett 6+2ast, D.Page 6+6reb
Chalon: M.Delaney 17+4reb+5ast, S.Tchicamboud 16+9reb+3ast, I.Evtimov 13+5reb+2ast, B.Schilb 11+4reb+2ast, J.Lauvergne 10+7reb, A.Aminu 7+4reb

Gravelines - Strasbourg 74-54

Very expected game when 10th ranked Strasbourg IG (5-8) was smashed on the road by second ranked Gravelines-Dunkerque (11-2) 74-54. Gravelines-Dunkerque dominated on the defensive end, holding Strasbourg IG to just 7 points in fourth quarter. Strangely Strasbourg IG outrebounded Gravelines-Dunkerque 46-29 including a 25-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. The former international Cyril Akpomedah (203-79) fired 17 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. American guard Juby Johnson (196-81, college: Miami, OH) chipped in 17 points. Gravelines-Dunkerque's coach Christian Monschau allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American-Dominican swingman Ricardo Greer (197-78, college: Pittsburgh) produced 8 points and 14 rebounds and naturalized Central African forward Maxime Zianveni (198-79) added 12 points and 8 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws) respectively for lost side. The victory was the third consecutive win for Gravelines-Dunkerque. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Chalon. Strasbourg IG lost their third game in a row. They keep the tenth place with eight games lost. Gravelines-Dunkerque's next round opponent will be Sluc Nancy (#3) on the road, which may be the game of the day. Strasbourg IG will play against JSF Nanterre (#13).
Top scorers:
Strasbourg: M.Zianveni 12+8reb+2ast, C.Oliver 9+10reb+2ast, R.Greer 8+14reb+3ast, K.Anderson 7+3reb+2ast, A.M'Baye 6+3reb, A.Jeanneau 6+1reb+2ast
Gravelines: J.Johnson 17+3reb, C.Akpomedah 17+4reb+1ast, A.Albicy 10+3reb+5ast, L.Vaty 8+3reb, Y.Bokolo 8+2reb+2ast, R.Jomby 6+4reb+2ast

Hyeres-Toulon - Nancy 84-97

Very predictable result when third ranked Sluc Nancy (10-2) won against on the road 15th ranked Hyeres-Toulon (2-11) 97-84. The game was mostly controlled by Sluc Nancy. Hyeres-Toulon was better in fourth quarter 24-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sluc Nancy made 21-of-26 charity shots (80.8 percent) during the game. 25 personal fouls committed by Hyeres-Toulon helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Naturalized Ivorian guard Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-85, agency: Beo Basket) fired 23 points for the winners (made all of his seven free throws). Naturalized Cameroonian forward Victor Samnick (203-79, college: Georgetown) chipped in 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Sluc Nancy players scored in double figures. American power forward Rick Hughes (204-73, college: Thomas More, agency: Interperformances) produced a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds and Senegalese forward Mouhammad Faye (208-85, college: SMU) added 21 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Defending champion maintains third place with 10-2 record behind leader Chalon. Hyeres-Toulon lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the fifteenth position with 11 games lost. Sluc Nancy's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Gravelines-Dunkerque at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Hyeres-Toulon will play against the league's leader Chalon/Saor (#1).
Top scorers:
Hyeres-Toulon: R.Hughes 24+10reb+2ast, M.Faye 21+5reb+2ast, L.Labeyrie 14+7reb+2ast, S.Cisse 8+1reb+1ast, S.Fein 7+4reb+2ast, A.Julien 3+3reb+4ast
Nancy: P.Amagou 23+3reb+2ast, A.Moerman 14+4reb, V.Samnick 14+5reb+4ast, J.Shuler 13+6reb+3ast, A.Akingbala 12+5reb+1ast, J.Linehan 7+2reb+3ast

Le Mans - Paris-Levallois 99-76

The game between fourth ranked Le Mans (10-3) and 5th ranked Paris-Levallois (9-4) in Le Mans ended with biggest points difference. Le Mans outscored guests from Levallois 99-76. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Paris-Levallois. The game without a history. Le Mans led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They outrebounded Paris-Levallois 36-25 including a 14-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Le Mans players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. American players dominated also this game. point guard Taylor Rochestie (185-85, college: Washington St.) fired a double-double by scoring 21 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists for the winners. Forward Travon Bryant (206-83, college: Missouri) chipped in a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. Power forward Lamont Hamilton (208-84, college: St.John's) produced 18 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) and guard Eric Chatfield (191-79, college: N.Mexico) added 15 points respectively for lost side. Five Le Mans and four Paris-Levallois players 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. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Le Mans. They maintain fourth place with 10-3 record. Paris-Levallois at the other side keeps the fifth position with four games lost. Le Mans' next round opponent will be Cholet (#11) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Paris-Levallois will play against Poitiers (#16).
Top scorers:
Paris-Levallois: L.Hamilton 18+7reb+1ast, E.Chatfield 15+3reb+3ast, J.Williams 11+4reb+2ast, T.Meacham 10+1reb+4ast, G.Oniangue 9+2reb, V.Masingue 6+5reb
Le Mans: T.Rochestie 21+5reb+10ast, T.Bryant 17+10reb+3ast, M.Sommerville 17+3reb+2ast, A.Acker 13+3reb+4ast, J.Paulo Batista 10+1reb+1ast, C.Kahudi 10+7reb+1ast

Dijon - Orleans 63-64

Important game to mention about took place in JDA Dijon. Sixth ranked Entente Orleans 45 (8-5) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging 9th ranked JDA Dijon (6-7) 64-63 on Tuesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of JDA Dijon. JDA Dijon cut a 17-point halftime deficit to one at the end of the game. American players dominated the game. Forward David Monds (205-83, college: Oklahoma St.) stepped up and scored 20 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and forward Brian Greene (204-81, college: Colorado St.) chipped in 8 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side point guard Bobby Dixon (178-83, college: Troy, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 26 points and 7 rebounds and forward Zach Moss (201-81, college: Mountain St.) scored 11 points. JDA Dijon's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Entente Orleans 45 maintains sixth place with 8-5 record. Newly promoted JDA Dijon dropped to the eighth position with seven games lost. They share it with ASVEL. Entente Orleans 45 will play against STB Le Havre (#12) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. JDA Dijon will play against ASVEL (#8) in Villeurbanne and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Dijon: B.Dixon 26+7reb+3ast, Z.Moss 11+4reb+1ast, A.Harris 8+4reb+1ast, S.Marshall 8+1reb+2ast, R.Lewin 6+4reb, D.Melody 2+2reb+4ast
Orleans: D.Monds 20+7reb, M.N'Doye 13+3reb, B.Greene 8+7reb+2ast, A.Sy 8+2reb+3ast, C.Banks 6+6reb+4ast, M.Pellin 5+3reb+1ast

Poitiers - Cholet 69-76

Not a big story in a game when 16th ranked Poitiers (2-11) lost at home to eleventh ranked Cholet (5-8) 76-69. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 22-14. But Poitiers won second period 20-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 27 personal fouls committed by Poitiers helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. International guard Fabien Causeur (193-87) fired 24 points for the winners. American guard DeMarcus Nelson (191-85, college: Duke) chipped in 21 points. International swingman Evan Fournier (199-92) produced 17 points and American forward Kenny Younger (203-77, college: Houston, agency: Warren Sports International) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Four Poitiers players scored in double figures. Cholet moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Strasbourg. Poitiers lost their tenth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 11 games lost. Cholet's next round opponent will be higher ranked Le Mans (#4) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Poitiers will play against Paris-Levallois (#5).
Top scorers:
Poitiers: E.Fournier 17+4reb+3ast, K.Younger 16+7reb+1ast, J.J.J. Miller 10+3reb+3ast, P.Badiane 10+9reb+2ast, P.Guillard 8+4reb+1ast, R.Wright 5+2reb+3ast
Cholet: F.Causeur 24+2reb+1ast, D.Nelson 21+4reb+2ast, L.Vebobe 9+11reb+1ast, R.Duport 8+6reb, P.Christopher 5+1reb, C.Ona-Embo 4+2reb+1ast

ProB Round 15: Chalons-Reims lose to Bordeaux - by Eurobasket News
The game between third ranked Chalons-Reims (10-5) and seventh ranked Bordeaux (9-6) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Chalons-Reims was defeated by Bordeaux in a tough game in Bordeaux 70-79. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Chalons-Reims. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. It was a good game for American power forward John Ford (207-78, college: Colorado St.) who led his team to a victory with 21 points. Naturalized Tunisian swingman Sami Driss (194-82) contributed with 10 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American-Irish point guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois) answered with 17 points, 5 assists and 5 steals for Chalons-Reims. Bordeaux moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Chalons-Reims at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. They share it with Fos Ouest. Bordeaux is looking forward to face Quimper UJAP (#17) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Chalons-Reims will play against SO Maritime Boulogne (#8) and is hoping to win this game.
An interesting game for Boulazac Basket (12-3) which played road game in Boulogne against 4th placed SO Maritime Boulogne (9-6). First ranked Boulazac Basket managed to get a 8-point victory 88-80. American players dominated the game. It was a great evening for Amadi McKenzie (201-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 7 rebounds. Darryl Monroe helped adding 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was swingman Chris McCray (196-84, college: Maryland, agency: VVG Sports) with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Boulazac Basket maintains first place with 12-3 record. SO Maritime Boulogne at the other side dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Boulazac Basket will play against JL Bourg (#9) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. SO Maritime Boulogne will play against Chalons-Reims (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very close game took place in Rouen between Saint Vallier and SPO Rouen. Eighth ranked Saint Vallier (9-6) got a very close victory on the road over 15th ranked SPO Rouen (5-10). Saint Vallier managed to escape with a 1-point win 93-92 on Tuesday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. It was an exceptional evening for David Denave who led the winners and scored 34 points (!!!) and 6 assists. Jason Siggers came up with 20 points and 5 rebounds for SPO Rouen in the defeat. Saint Vallier moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. SPO Rouen lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth position with ten games lost. They share it with Antibes. Saint Vallier will meet at home Nantes (#11) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. SPO Rouen will play against Aix-Maurienne (#7) in Aix-les-Bains and hope to secure a win.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Aix-Maurienne (9-6) and Nantes (7-8), which took place in Nantes. Higher ranked Aix-Maurienne lost to eleventh ranked Nantes in a road game 73-78. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Aix-Maurienne. The best player for the winners was David Fergerson who scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Nantes moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Aix-Maurienne at the other side keeps the fifth position with six games lost. Nantes' next round opponent will be higher ranked Saint Vallier (#5) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Aix-Maurienne will play against SPO Rouen.
The game between twelfth ranked JL Bourg (7-8) and 9th ranked ALM Evreux (7-8) in Bourg on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. JL Bourg outscored guests from Evreux 84-55. It was a good game for Jesse Delhomme who led his team to a victory with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. ALM Evreux's coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. JL Bourg moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated ALM Evreux. JL Bourg will face league's leader Boulazac Basket on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 15: Le Portel was smashed by Fos Ouest on the road 93-70. Lille won against Quimper on its own court 82-74. Vichy unfortunately lost to Limoges in a road game 60-70. Denain managed to beat Antibes at home 86-72.

Fos Ouest - Le Portel 93-70

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Fos Ouest (10-5) crushed at home 10th ranked Le Portel (7-8) 93-70 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by Fos Ouest. Le Portel was better in fourth quarter 23-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Fos Ouest dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Le Portel's 38. They outrebounded Le Portel 39-22 including a 29-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for point guard Edouard Choquet (187-88) who led his team to a victory with 17 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Jamaican-American Sherman Gay (201-82, college: Loyola Mary) contributed with 17 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized Senegalese forward Moustapha N'Diaye (202-84) answered with 16 points and Mehdi Labeyrie (202-78) added 17 points in the effort for Le Portel. Five Fos Ouest and four Le Portel players 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. Fos Ouest moved-up to third place, which they share with Chalons-Reims. Loser Le Portel dropped to the ninth position with eight games lost. Fos Ouest will face JA Vichy (#18) on the road in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Le Portel will play against Lille Metropole (#13).
Top scorers:
Fos Ouest: S.Gay 17+6reb+2ast, E.Choquet 17+7reb+3ast, M.Dia 15+5reb, B.Clark 11+3reb+5ast, M.Hachad 10+1reb, S.Giffa 10+7reb+1ast
Le Portel: M.Labeyrie 17+3reb+1ast, M.N'Diaye 16+2reb+3ast, C.Davis 11+2ast, B.Mangin 10+3ast, I.Sy 9+6reb, N.Wyatte 4+6reb

Lille - Quimper 82-74

Very expected game when 17th ranked Quimper UJAP (4-11) lost on the road to thirteenth ranked Lille Metropole (7-8) 82-74 on Tuesday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-15. But Quimper UJAP won second period 16-12. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lille Metropole made 17-of-21 free shots (81.0 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Lille Metropole especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a good game for American swingman Curtis Marshall (196-83, college: Texas Tech, agency: R.H.Consultancy) who led his team to a victory with 22 points and 4 assists. His fellow American import Steve Smith (200-81, college: Iona) contributed with 22 points and 6 rebounds (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) for the winners. Lille Metropole's coach Fabien Romeyer used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Liberian-American Pele Paelay (193-84, college: Co.Carolina) answered with 27 points and 5 rebounds and Nigerian-British power forward Andrew Lovedale (203-85, college: Davidson) added 17 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Quimper UJAP. Lille Metropole have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Quimper UJAP lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventeenth position with 11 games lost. Lille Metropole will face Le Portel (#12) on the road in the next round. Quimper UJAP will play against Bordeaux (#6).
Top scorers:
Lille: S.Smith 22+6reb+2ast, C.Marshall 22+4reb+4ast, N.Taccoen 10+6reb+2ast, M.Tensorer 9+3reb, J.Sauret 8+3reb+6ast, B.Gillet 5+1reb
Quimper: P.Paelay 27+5reb+2ast, A.Lovedale 17+8reb+1ast, V.Mouillard 12+1reb+2ast, A.Salmon 8+4reb, A.Mendy 8+3reb+5ast, B.Doumbe 2+1reb+1ast

Limoges - Vichy 70-60

Very predictable result when second ranked Limoges CSP Elite (11-4) won against at home 18th ranked JA Vichy (1-14) 70-60 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 33-22 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Limoges CSP Elite outrebounded JA Vichy 45-30 including 17 on the offensive glass. It was a good game for American power forward Christophe Massie (206-77, college: Memphis, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 15 rebounds. Raphael Desroses (199-80) contributed with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. American forward Daniel Coleman (206-85, college: Minnesota) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds and point guard Antoine Eito (186-88) added 13 points and 5 assists in the effort for JA Vichy. Four JA Vichy players scored in double figures. Limoges CSP Elite maintains second place with 11-4 record behind leader Boulazac. JA Vichy lost tenth consecutive game. They keep the eighteenth position with 14 games lost. Limoges CSP Elite will face Olympique Antibes (#16) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. JA Vichy will play against Fos Ouest and be promoted back to the ProA just one year after relegation.
Top scorers:
Limoges: C.Massie 16+15reb, R.Desroses 15+10reb+6ast, J.Gomis 12+4reb+5ast, K.McAlarney 8+2reb+6ast, L.Milbourne 8+5reb, S.Traore 6+6reb
Vichy: D.Coleman 17+6reb, W.Aka 14+5reb+1ast, A.Eito 13+3reb+5ast, M.Guichard 10+5reb+4ast, J.Djimrabaye 4+4reb, N.Faye Djobo 2+3reb

Nantes - Maurienne 78-73

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Aix-Maurienne (9-6) and Nantes (7-8), which took place in Nantes. Higher ranked Aix-Maurienne lost to eleventh ranked Nantes in a road game 73-78. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Aix-Maurienne. Nantes dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Aix-Maurienne's 36. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. The best player for the winners was naturalized American guard David Fergerson (185-78, college: St.Louis) who scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Naturalized Swiss power forward David Ramseyer (200-87) chipped in 24 points. At the other side the best for losing team was American-DR Congolese power forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) who recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and 17 rebounds and naturalized Cameroonian Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa (188-77) added 13 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists respectively. Nantes moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Aix-Maurienne at the other side keeps the fifth position with six games lost. Nantes' next round opponent will be higher ranked Saint Vallier (#5) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Aix-Maurienne will play against SPO Rouen.
Top scorers:
Nantes: D.Ramseyer 24+2reb+2ast, M.Badiane 18+5reb+2ast, D.Fergerson 17+7reb+7ast, A.Charles 7+5reb+3ast, N.Gayon 7+2reb+6ast, K.Idomenee 5+3reb+1ast
Maurienne: B.Osby 24+17reb+1ast, J.Ekanga-Ehawa 13+7reb+5ast, W.Brown 11+2reb+1ast, G.Clerc 8+1reb+1ast, D.Tucker 6+3reb+1ast, T.Yvrande 6+2reb

Rouen - St Vallier 92-93

A very close game took place in Rouen between Saint Vallier and SPO Rouen. Eighth ranked Saint Vallier (9-6) got a very close victory on the road over 15th ranked SPO Rouen (5-10). Saint Vallier managed to escape with a 1-point win 93-92 on Tuesday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 93-92. It was an exceptional evening for David Denave (195-85) who led the winners and scored 34 points (!!!) and 6 assists. American point guard Kyle Shiloh (191-85, college: Nevada) accounted for 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. American swingman Jason Siggers (190-85, college: Albany) came up with 20 points and 5 rebounds and guard Pierric Poupet (191-84) added 14 points and 6 assists respectively for SPO Rouen in the defeat. Four SPO Rouen players scored in double figures. Saint Vallier moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. SPO Rouen lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth position with ten games lost. They share it with Antibes. Saint Vallier will meet at home Nantes (#11) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. SPO Rouen will play against Aix-Maurienne (#7) in Aix-les-Bains and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
St Vallier: D.Denave 34+2reb+6ast, K.Shiloh 16+6reb+3ast, L.Prowell 16+6reb+1ast, S.Barrett 8+3reb+1ast, D.Diarra 7, H.Disy 4+2reb+3ast
Rouen: J.Siggers 20+5reb+2ast, T.Maizeroi 14+4reb+1ast, P.Poupet 14+2reb+6ast, L.Chelle 13+1reb+2ast, C.Thioune 8+1reb, A.Dunn 8+6reb+1ast

Denain - Antibes 86-72

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourteenth ranked Denain Voltaire and 16th ranked Olympique Antibes had identical 5-9 record. This time Denain Voltaire used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Antibes 86-72 on Tuesday night. Denain Voltaire made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American power forward Ryan Rossiter (204-89, college: Siena) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Nate Rohnert (197-87, college: Denver) contributed with 15 points and 4 assists for the winners. Denain Voltaire's coach Marc Silvert used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Belgian power forward Sacha Massot (205-83, agency: LBM Management) answered with 16 points and 8 rebounds and American Cecil Brown (193-83, college: UCSB) added 16 points and 4 assists in the effort for Olympique Antibes. Four Denain Voltaire and five Olympique Antibes players scored in double figures. Newly promoted Denain Voltaire maintains fourteenth place with 6-9 record. Loser Olympique Antibes dropped to the fifteenth position with ten games lost. Denain Voltaire will face higher ranked ALM Evreux (#10) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Olympique Antibes will play against the league's second-placed Limoges CSP Elite (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Denain: J.James 16+1reb+2ast, N.Rohnert 15+3reb+4ast, X.Gaillou 13+2reb+4ast, L.Kante 13+1ast, R.Rossiter 10+13reb+2ast, R.Brocheray 8+5reb+1ast
Antibes: S.Massot 16+8reb+3ast, C.Brown 16+3reb+4ast, F.Prenom 12+3reb, J.Allen 12+9reb+1ast, L.Bengaber 10+2reb+3ast, S.Essart 3+1ast

Bordeaux - Chalons-Reims 79-70

The game between third ranked Chalons-Reims (10-5) and seventh ranked Bordeaux (9-6) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Chalons-Reims was defeated by Bordeaux in a tough game in Bordeaux 70-79. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of Chalons-Reims. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. It was a good game for American power forward John Ford (207-78, college: Colorado St.) who led his team to a victory with 21 points. Naturalized Tunisian swingman Sami Driss (194-82) contributed with 10 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American-Irish point guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois) answered with 17 points, 5 assists and 5 steals and American Chris Daniels (200-82, college: Georgia, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 13 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Chalons-Reims. Four Chalons-Reims players scored in double figures. Bordeaux moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Chalons-Reims at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. They share it with Fos Ouest. Bordeaux is looking forward to face Quimper UJAP (#17) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Chalons-Reims will play against SO Maritime Boulogne (#8) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Bordeaux: J.Ford 21+4reb, O.Bassett 11+3reb+1ast, S.Driss 10+5reb+2ast, K.Cunningham 9+4reb, B.Elisabeth-Mesnager 8+1ast, R.Dardaine 7+6reb+3ast
Chalons-Reims: B.Mullins 17+2reb+5ast, G.Chathuant 17+3reb, C.Daniels 13+9reb, K.Corre 13+5reb+1ast, B.King 4+3reb+2ast, K.Joss-Rauze 2

Boulogne - Boulazac 80-88

An interesting game for Boulazac Basket (12-3) which played road game in Boulogne against 4th placed SO Maritime Boulogne (9-6). First ranked Boulazac Basket managed to get a 8-point victory 88-80. SO Maritime Boulogne was ahead by 8 points after three quarters before a 30-14 charge of Boulazac Basket, which allowed them to win the game. They made 17-of-19 charity shots (89.5 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Boulazac Basket especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.0 percentage. American players dominated the game. It was a great evening for Amadi McKenzie (201-86) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 7 rebounds. Power forward Darryl Monroe (202-86, college: George Mason, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) helped adding 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was swingman Chris McCray (196-84, college: Maryland, agency: VVG Sports) with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and power forward James Mathis (200-84, college: Niagara, agency: Court Side) scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Boulazac Basket maintains first place with 12-3 record. SO Maritime Boulogne at the other side dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Boulazac Basket will play against JL Bourg (#9) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. SO Maritime Boulogne will play against Chalons-Reims (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Boulazac: A.McKenzie 20+7reb+1ast, D.Monroe 14+10reb+4ast, I.Soumahoro 14+2reb+1ast, Y.Gaillou 13+1reb+1ast, R.Ayers 12+3reb+1ast, S.Njoya 10+3reb+6ast
Boulogne: J.Mathis 16+8reb, C.Rouse 14+6reb+1ast, C.McCray 12+6reb+6ast, J.Rousselle 10+1reb+5ast, T.Stanley 10+4reb+1ast, F.Raposo Laurencio 9+4reb

Bourg - Evreux 84-55

The game between twelfth ranked JL Bourg (7-8) and 9th ranked ALM Evreux (7-8) in Bourg on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. JL Bourg outscored guests from Evreux 84-55. The game without a history. JL Bourg led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a great shooting night for JL Bourg especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 53.3 percentage. ALM Evreux was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for guard Jesse Delhomme (191-85) who led his team to a victory with 11 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Senegalese power forward Ousmane Barro (208-84, college: Marquette) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four JL Bourg players scored in double figures. American power forward Jeremiah Wood (200-85, agency: Court Side) answered with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds and center Garry Florimont (203-87) added 11 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for ALM Evreux. ALM Evreux's coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. JL Bourg moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated ALM Evreux. JL Bourg will face league's leader Boulazac Basket on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Bourg: I.Koma 17+4reb, O.Barro 15+7reb+1ast, C.Ferchaud 14+4reb, J.Delhomme 11+5reb+8ast, R.Chery 9+4reb+3ast, J.Sanchez 8+2reb+3ast
Evreux: J.Wood 12+10reb+1ast, G.Florimont 11+5reb+1ast, R.Wilmont 10, A.Rowland 8+4reb, S.Ho You Fat 6+3reb, L.Konate 4+2reb+1ast

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

GERMANY

Herten cuts Daugherty and signs Nixon - by Moritz Korff
Pro B team Hertener Loewen bid farewell to Ryan Daugherty (193-G-87, college: Life) and replaced him with Zamal Nixon (185-G-89). According to Herten's press release parting ways with Daugherty happened by mutual consent. Daugherty had 14 appearances on the Lions' team this season, while scoring 10.9 points, grabbing 4.6 boards and dishing out 3.1 assists per contest. The 24-year-old had a season high 24 points against Schwelm in November.
Nixon has not yet played in European basketball. He graduated from the University of Houston (NCAA Division 1) earlier this year. He had averaged 10.3 points, 4.7 assists and 2.6 rebounds (30 games) as a senior and made the 2010-11 Conference USA All-Defensive Team.

Gotha Rockets land Davon Roberts - by Moritz Korff
With just over week to go to the re-start of the Pro B season, the Gotha Rockets strengthened their roster by signing Davon Roberts (197-F-86, college: Azusa Pacific). 'Davon is a very quick player, a strong rebounder and has an outstanding fighting spirit. He will stabilize our team underneath the basket. And of course he will increase our capability, during the games and in practice', Gotha head coach Marko Simic commented.
Roberts is a 25-year-old forward out of Covina, California. He spent his college career at Cal. State Sacramento (NCAA D1) and NAIA school Azusa Pacific. He has three years of professional basketball under his belt, which he spent entirely in Germany. He started at Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig in 2008, followed by a single season with BV Chemnitz. In the 2010-11 campaign Roberts played for Mitteldeutscher BC in the BBL.

Steffen Harvey won't come to Dorsten - by Moritz Korff
Steffen Harvey (188-G, college: Warner Pacific) was supposed to join Pro B outfit BG Dorsten during the christmas break to suit up for the team in 2012, but the German-American guard from Gresham, Oregon will not return to Germany anyway, the club said today. A case of illness in his family forces the former Magdeburg and Hannover player to stay at home and makes it impossible for him to come to Germany at this time, the Dorsten team told in a press release. As a consequence the contract has been terminated and the hunt for a new man to bolster the Dorsten backcourt is on.

David Teague (I Played Until My Wheels Didint Move Anymore) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue) is a 28 year old 196cm guard playing his first season for Ass.Pallacanestro Sant' Antimo (Italy) who is an athletic wing player who possesses an excellent perimeter shot, is a solid penetrator who can get to the basket off the dribble and is a tenacious defender who can shut down dribble penetration. He grew up in Indianapolis and went to Pike high school and at Bridgeton Academy. He played at Purdue from 2002-2007 and In his senior year, he played 34 games averaging 14.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3Pts: 41.2%, FT: 75.4% Purdue from 2002-2007. In his first professional season, he played in Greece for AEL 1964 playing 23 games averaging 9.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 2FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 78.0%. Last season, he played in France for JA Vichy Val d'Allier Auvergne basket playing 4 EuroChallenge games: averaging 8.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.8spg and playing 29 games in the French League averaging 13.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 73.4%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Giessen 46ers where he led the Beko BBL in scoring playing 2009-2010: LTi Giessen 46ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 18 games: Score-1 (20.4ppg), 4.7rpg, Steals-4 (1.5spg), FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 70.0%. Last season, he played for Clube de Regatas do Flamengo (Brazil-NBB, starting five): Liga Americas: 6 games: 16.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 61.1%; Brazilian League: 22 games: 13.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 81.3%. Eurobasket spoke to Teague about his basketball career in Italy.

You are playing your first season in Italy in the Lega 2. How would you compare it to the leagues in Greece, France and Germany where you played previously?

It is lot like the France Pro A. There are a lot of good Americans playing in Italy and in the Lega 2.

You have been scoring nicely in the Lega 2. What is your role? Is it similar to what you had with the LTi Giessen 46ers?

It is a little different. As Campbell got hurt, my role sort of changed. Now it is a lot more like with Giessen where I am required to score more and be more aggressive on offense.

What is it like playing against ex NBA players each weekend. Recently you played against James White who played with the Chicago Bulls.

It is great playing against those guys. It really helps build your confidence. When you do well, you realize that there isnt so much difference between all the players with talent. Each time I go against an ex NBA player it is a test to see where I stand and keeps building up my confidence.

How do you like life in Italy and where is S. Antimo?

It is in the south of Italy at Naples. I recently moved near an US army air base. It makes it a lot easier for my girlfriend and son since all is Americanized. The weather is great as well.

The German fans have you in good memory. What do you miss most from Germany and the Beko BBL?

I miss the fan support. It was amazing all the love I got even on the road. Once I was on the court I got booed, but I always knew that I was respected. I really loved Germany and was in Frankfurt often hanging out at the Sports bars.

You only played 18 games in the 2009-2010 Beko BBL season, but you were top scorer. Many didnt know that you played the season hurt. How did you cope with that and still play well?

I just played with a lot of heart. I just did whatever I could to help my team win. We didnt win many games with Giessen, but I never gave up trying my best. I played until my wheels didnt move anymore. My knee gave out and that was it.

If you had been 100%, what kind of stats do you think you could have had?

I feel that I could of averaged 25-26 points and would of rebounded more. I am a big guard and like to mix it up under the boards. I also think that I would of shot better to.

I will never forget your 35 point game in Giessen against Alba Berlin. Was that your best game as a professional?

It was one of my best games. I remember making 39 points in a game in Greece where I missed only three shots. The game against Alba Berlin was a blessing for me. It was great playing against Julius Jenkins, Immanuel Mcelroy and Rashad Wright. I remember Jenkins telling me after the close loss good game and told me good luck in next games. I felt that he respected my game after the loss.

When will we see you in the Beko BBL again?

I dont know. I hope the league hasnt forgotten me. Me coming back depends on the offers that I get, but I would love to play in the Beko BBL again.

You played in Brasil last season for Regatas Do Flamengo. How was the basketball interest in Brasil where soccer dominates?

The interest and level is not as high in Brasil, but we had many fans because they had a very good soccer team. Our team was one of the top teams in South America.

What was it like as the only American playing with Brasilians?

It was different and a first for me, but the guys accepted me from the first day. Many guys had played in the States and had good English. They made me feel a part of a team which meant a lot for me coming off an injury.

What was your most crazy experience in Brasil?

It was being a part of the carnival which is like the Mardi Gras in the States. The weather wasnt so good when I was there, but all in all it was a very good experience for me.

You were a senior at Purdue when s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg guard Chris Kramer was a freshman. You seemed to be amazed by his play.

Kramer is my boy. He was a tough player. He played injured as a freshman. He was an incredible defender. He was tough and ferocious like a bull dog. He was responsible for a lot of the success that Purdue had which got them back on the map.

What is your cousin Jeff Teague doing during the NBA lockout period?

We have a nice basketball family in Indianapolis. He has been working out and staying in shape and playing a Pro Am tournament. He showed the world last season in the playoffs against the Chicago Bulls and Derrick Rose what he can do. He is a big talent and he should have a bigger role this season with the Atlanta Hawks.

Who wins a one on one game you or Folarian Campbell?

I would win. He is heavy and slow when going laterally. I am sure he hasnt forgotten the 30 points I scored on him and the Artland Dragons.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Paper Chasers a low budget movie about a drug dealer aspiring to become a rapper.

Thanks David for the chat.

David Teague (I Played Until My Wheels Didn't Move Anymore - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
David Teague is a 28 year old 196cm guard playing his first season for Ass.Pallacanestro Sant' Antimo (Italy) who is an athletic wing player who possesses an excellent perimeter shot, is a solid penetrator who can get to the basket off the dribble and is a tenacious defender who can shut down dribble penetration. He grew up in Indianapolis and went to Pike high school and at Bridgeton Academy. He played at Purdue from 2002-2007 and In his senior year, he played 34 games averaging 14.3ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 44.0%, 3Pts: 41.2%, FT: 75.4% Purdue from 2002-2007. In his first professional season, he played in Greece for AEL 1964 playing 23 games averaging 9.7ppg, 3.5rpg, 2FGP: 48.0%, 3PT: 32.0%, FT: 78.0%. Last season, he played in France for JA Vichy Val d'Allier Auvergne basket playing 4 EuroChallenge games: averaging 8.8ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.8spg and playing 29 games in the French League averaging 13.8ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.7%, 3PT: 30.9%, FT: 73.4%. In 2009-2010, he played for the Giessen 46ers where he led the Beko BBL in scoring playing 2009-2010: LTi Giessen 46ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 18 games: Score-1 (20.4ppg), 4.7rpg, Steals-4 (1.5spg), FGP: 47.5%, 3PT: 32.3%, FT: 70.0%. Last season, he played for Clube de Regatas do Flamengo (Brazil-NBB, starting five): Liga Americas: 6 games: 16.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 51.0%, 3PT: 40.6%, FT: 61.1%; Brazilian League: 22 games: 13.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 2FGP: 54.7%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 81.3%. Eurobasket spoke to Teague about his basketball career in Italy.

You are playing your first season in Italy in the Lega 2. How would you compare it to the leagues in Greece, France and Germany where you played previously?

It is lot like the France Pro A. There are a lot of good Americans playing in Italy and in the Lega 2.

You have been scoring nicely in the Lega 2. What is your role? Is it similar to what you had with the LTi Giessen 46ers?

It is a little different. As Campbell got hurt, my role sort of changed. Now it is a lot more like with Giessen where I am required to score more and be more aggressive on offense.

What is it like playing against ex NBA players each weekend. Recently you played against James White who played with the Chicago Bulls.

It is great playing against those guys. It really helps build your confidence. When you do well, you realize that there isnt so much difference between all the players with talent. Each time I go against an ex NBA player it is a test to see where I stand and keeps building up my confidence.

How do you like life in Italy and where is S. Antimo?

It is in the south of Italy at Naples. I recently moved near an US army air base. It makes it a lot easier for my girlfriend and son since all is Americanized. The weather is great as well.

The German fans have you in good memory. What do you miss most from Germany and the Beko BBL?

I miss the fan support. It was amazing all the love I got even on the road. Once I was on the court I got booed, but I always knew that I was respected. I really loved Germany and was in Frankfurt often hanging out at the Sports bars.

You only played 18 games in the 2009-2010 Beko BBL season, but you were top scorer. Many didnt know that you played the season hurt. How did you cope with that and still play well?

I just played with a lot of heart. I just did whatever I could to help my team win. We didnt win many games with Giessen, but I never gave up trying my best. I played until my wheels didnt move anymore. My knee gave out and that was it.

If you had been 100%, what kind of stats do you think you could have had?

I feel that I could of averaged 25-26 points and would of rebounded more. I am a big guard and like to mix it up under the boards. I also think that I would of shot better to.

I will never forget your 35 point game in Giessen against Alba Berlin. Was that your best game as a professional?

It was one of my best games. I remember making 39 points in a game in Greece where I missed only three shots. The game against Alba Berlin was a blessing for me. It was great playing against Julius Jenkins, Immanuel Mcelroy and Rashad Wright. I remember Jenkins telling me after the close loss good game and told me good luck in next games. I felt that he respected my game after the loss.

When will we see you in the Beko BBL again?

I dont know. I hope the league hasnt forgotten me. Me coming back depends on the offers that I get, but I would love to play in the Beko BBL again.

You played in Brasil last season for Regatas Do Flamengo. How was the basketball interest in Brasil where soccer dominates?

The interest and level is not as high in Brasil, but we had many fans because they had a very good soccer team. Our team was one of the top teams in South America.

What was it like as the only American playing with Brasilians?

It was different and a first for me, but the guys accepted me from the first day. Many guys had played in the States and had good English. They made me feel a part of a team which meant a lot for me coming off an injury.

What was your most crazy experience in Brasil?

It was being a part of the carnival which is like the Mardi Gras in the States. The weather wasnt so good when I was there, but all in all it was a very good experience for me.

You were a senior at Purdue when s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg guard Chris Kramer was a freshman. You seemed to be amazed by his play.

Kramer is my boy. He was a tough player. He played injured as a freshman. He was an incredible defender. He was tough and ferocious like a bull dog. He was responsible for a lot of the success that Purdue had which got them back on the map.

What is your cousin Jeff Teague doing during the NBA lockout period?

We have a nice basketball family in Indianapolis. He has been working out and staying in shape and playing a Pro Am tournament. He showed the world last season in the playoffs against the Chicago Bulls and Derrick Rose what he can do. He is a big talent and he should have a bigger role this season with the Atlanta Hawks.

Who wins a one on one game you or Folarian Campbell?

I would win. He is heavy and slow when going laterally. I am sure he hasnt forgotten the 30 points I scored on him and the Artland Dragons.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Paper Chasers a low budget movie about a drug dealer aspiring to become a rapper.

Thanks David for the chat.

Bryant's 21 points and 9 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
24-year old center John Bryant (208-C-87) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Ratiopharm and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
He had the game-high 21 points adding nine rebounds for Ratiopharm in his team's victory, helping them to crush Telekom Baskets (#11, 7-7) with 17-point margin 101-84. Ratiopharm maintains the 2nd position in German league. They are still close to the very top. Ratiopharm would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 11-2 record. It's Bryant's second year at Ratiopharm and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Santa Clara University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Bryant leads league in rebounds with 9.8rpg. Bryant is in league's top in and averages solid 1.2bpg and 56.0% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84) of Fraport SKY. He is American forward in his first season at Fraport SKY. In the last game Davidson recorded impressive double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Of course he lead Fraport SKY to another comfortable win 78-65 over the lower-ranked Goettingen (#18, 2-12) being unquestionably team leader. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. But Fraport SKY managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 12th place. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 5-9 record. Davidson is a newcomer at Fraport SKY and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Fraport SKY's star - forward Jacob Burtschi (198-F-84). Burtschi scored 17 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was another key player of Fraport SKY, helping his team with a 78-65 easy win against the lower-ranked Goettingen (#18, 2-12). The chances of Fraport SKY not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 9 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Burtschi could try to bring Fraport SKY's a little bit higher in the standings. Burtschi has a very solid season. In 2 games in Germany he scored 12.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. David Holston (170-G-86) of Art.Dragons - 25 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Raymond Sykes (206-F/C-86) of Goettingen - 24 points and 4 rebounds
6. Dane Watts (203-F-86) of Ratiopharm - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Tristan Blackwood (183-G-85) of Phoenix Hagen - 27 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Nathan Peavy (203-F-85) of Art.Dragons - 19 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Maik Zirbes (205-C-90) of TBB Trier - 15 points and 13 rebounds
10. Kenny Hasbrouck (191-G-86) of EWE Baskets - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists

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

Standings - 1. Bundesliga

1.Bundesliga Standings

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

Standings - Pro B

ProB Standings

Group North
1. Hannover		11-3
2. Vechta		11-4
3. SU Medien		10-5
4. Schwelm		9-6
5. Stahnsdorf		9-6
6. Herten		8-6
7. Dorsten		8-7
8. Wulfen		7-8
9. Wolfenbuettel		7-8
10. Bayer Giants		5-9
11. Rist Wedel		5-10
12. ALBA Berlin II		4-10
13. Bernau		1-14
Group South
1. Gotha		11-3
2. Noerdlingen		11-3
3. BSW Sixers		10-4
4. Leipzig		10-4
5. Dragons		9-4
6. Langen		8-6
7. Hanau		7-7
8. Licher Baeren		7-7
9. TSV Troester		5-9
10. Fraport SKY II		3-11
11. Giessen		2-12
12. BG Illertal		1-13

Statistical leaders of the 1. Regionalliga West - by Moritz Korff
While the players are enjoying the christmas break and a couple of days of rest, let's take a look at the statistical leaders of the 1. Regionalliga West. Only players who appeared in at least six games so far this season have been listed.

Efficiency per game:
1. Robert Franklin (195-F-81, college: N.Mexico Highlands) - Recklinghausen: 31.2
2. T.J. Smith (188-G, college: Ky Wesleyan) - Dortmund: 27.8
3. Ryon Howard (198-F-84, college: Sacred Heart) - Bochum: 24.7
4. Marcus Ligons (201-F-84, college: Chadron St.) - Hagen-Haspe: 22.9
5. Brett McKnight (198-F, college: Akron) - Schalke: 22.3
6. Marko Samanovic (206-C-85) - Werne: 21.8
7. Antonio Houston (193-G-88, college: Catawba) - Grevenbroich: 20.8
8. Tim Schonborn (191-G-90) - Dortmund: 20.4
9. Marc Sola (185-G-85) - Schalke: 19.2
9. Patrick Schiele (192-F-82) - Grevenbroich: 19.2

Scoring:
1. T.J. Smith - Dortmund: 25.1ppg
2. Dave Boykin (193-G, college: Bridgeport) - Willich: 24.9ppg
3. Brett McKnight - Schalke: 24.8ppg
4. Marcus Ligons (201-F-84) - Hagen-Haspe: 24.7ppg
5. Will Figures (175-PG-87, college: N.Colorado) - Iserlohn: 23.5ppg
6. Marko Samanovic (206-C-85) - Werne: 23.4ppg
7. Antonio Houston (193-G-88, college: Catawba) - Grevenbroich: 22.2ppg
8. Robert Franklin (195-F-81, college: N.Mexico Highlands) - Recklinghausen: 22.0ppg
9. Tim Schonborn (191-G-90) - Dortmund: 21.4ppg
10. Devon Baker (185-G-87, college: Northwestern St.) - Salzkotten: 19.7ppg

Rebounding:
1. Robert Franklin (195-F-81, college: N.Mexico Highlands) - Recklinghausen: 14.4rpg
2. Patrick Schiele (192-F-82) - Grevenbroich: 10.7rpg
3. Marcus Ligons (201-F-84) - Hagen-Haspe: 9.5rpg
4. Ryon Howard (198-F-84, college: Sacred Heart) - Bochum: 8.9rpg
5. David Golembiowski (200-F, college: SUNYIT) - Bonn: 8.6rpg
6. Marko Samanovic (206-C-85) - Werne: 8.4rpg
7. Antonio Houston (193-G-88, college: Catawba) - Grevenbroich: 7.8rpg
8. Marvin Kruchen (208-C-90) - Grevenbroich: 7.7rpg
9. Stefan Fuerst (201-F-81) - Recklinghausen: 7.5rpg
10. Brett McKnight - Schalke: 7.3rpg

Assists:
1. Michael Wasielewski (187-G-82) - Hagen-Haspe: 7.2apg
2. Matthias Finke (183-G-87) - Salzkotten: 5.8apg
3. Marc Sola (185-G-85) - Schalke: 5.2apg
4. T.J. Smith - Dortmund: 5.0apg
5. Thomas Ble (186-G-89) - Grevenbroich: 4.7apg

Steals:
1. Marc Sola (185-G-85) - Schalke: 2.7spg
2. Thomas Ble - Grevenbroich: 2.4spg
2. T.J. Smith - Dortmund - 2.4spg
4. Patrick Schiele (192-F-82) - Grevenbroich: 2.2spg
5. Robert Franklin (195-F-81, college: N.Mexico Highlands) - Recklinghausen: 2.1spg
5. Dave Boykin (193-G, college: Bridgeport) - Willich: 2.1spg

Blocked Shots:
1. David Golembiowski (200-F, college: SUNYIT) - Bonn: 2.0bpg
2. Stefan Fuerst - Recklinghausen: 1.6bpg
3. Robert Franklin (195-F-81, college: N.Mexico Highlands) - Recklinghausen: 1.2bpg
3. Tobias Wuellner (204-C-91) - Schalke: 1.2bpg
5. Steven Smith (211-C-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: S.Dakota) - Hagen: 1.1bpg

Source: www.basketball-bund.net

Brandon Thomas (Artland Dragons) Anthony Hilliard Is Always Making Acrobatic Moves While Getting Fouled And Finishing The Play - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, college: Massachusetts) is a 27 year old 198cm shooting guard from San Antonio, Texas that was born in Bitburg Germany and is playing his second season with The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. He is long and athletic and capable of defending anyone on the floor; ability to accelerate and finish around the basket. Possesses an outstanding basketball IQ. He played at Long island (NCAA) from 2002-2004 and then went to UMASS from 2005-2007. In 2007, he played in Denmark leading the league in scoring for Team FOG Naestved playing 24 games: Score-1 (24.5ppg), 4.6rpg, 3.2apg, 2.0spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 61.2%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 71.0%. He was the Danish player of the year in 2008 and was the 2008 Allstar game MVP. In 2008-2009, he played in Austria for Kraftwerk Wels playing 45 games averaging 20.2ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 66.6%, 3PT: 38.8%, FT: 68.5%. In 2009-2010, he moved to the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig and played 40 games: 10.6ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 34.8%, FT: 74.6%. Last season for Braunschweig, he played 37 games: 14.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.0apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 41.2%, FT: 78.7% . This season, he played with Vanoli-Braga Cremona (Italy-SerieA ) averaging 4,1ppg and 2,7rpg in seven games. Recently, he moved to the Artland Dragons and he took some time to talk to eurobasket.

The Artland Dragons have been winning and winning and have continued since you came aboard. How has the team developed since your short stay?

The Dragons have been accustomed to winning before I got here but I am glad to help in any way possible to continue their winning ways

What has been your secret for getting adjusted to the team so quickly in Quackenbruck?

My teammates, coaches, and the entire organization have helped me feel comfortable on and off the court to make the transition easier

Artland has a deeper roster than Braunschweig. How is your role different than the last years in the Beko BBL?

Im not sure. I really just do whatever is asked of me to help.

What has caught your eye quickest in your new surroundings in the Artland?

The landscape in and around the town is beautiful

Anthony Hilliard is an impresssive rebounder. What has been the most amazing thing that you have seen him do in practice?

He is always making acrobatic moves while getting fouled and finishing the play

What is your favorite childhood Christmas memory?

Seeing presents under the tree in the morning will always be a lasting memory but getting a puppy in the middle of the night is probably my favorite.

Where will the journey of the San Antonio Spurs end this season?

With a trophy.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Contagion

Thanks Brandon for the chat.

Jason Boone (s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg) Jared Homan Is Everything You Look For In A Good Big Man - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) is a 26 year old 198cm power forward/center from Sugar Loaf, New York. He will be playing his first season with the s. Oliver Baskets Wurzburg and his fourth in the Beko BBL. He played three seasons for BG Goettingen. He played at New York University (NCAA 3) from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 28 games averaging 14.1ppg, 9.6rpg, 2.4bpg, 2.9apg, FG: 63.0%, FT: 64.3%. Three seasons ago, he played at Bernau (Regionalliga) before making the jump up three leagues to MEG Goettingen. In 2008-2009, he averaged 4.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FG: 53.7. In 2009-2010, he won the Eurochallenge playing EuroChallenge: 16 games: 10.7ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.6%, FT: 53.8%; German League: 35 games: 9.1ppg, 6.1rpg, FGP: 60.3%, FT: 55.9%. Last season with BG Goettingen he played 37 games: 8.5ppg, 5.9rpg, FGP: 59.8%, FT: 34.9%; EuroCup: 14 games: 9.1ppg, 6.2rpg, Blocks-4 (1.1bpg), FGP: 59.8%, FT: 36.0%. Jason spoke to Eurobasket after the 64-55 win against FC Bayern Munich

A huge 64-55 win against FC Bayern Munich. How did coach John Patrick get the meaning of urgency over to the team best in the last days leading up to this game?

It wasn't very difficult. There are tons of leaders on this team, there was the obvious fact that we had lost three games in a row, we were back home, and it was a Christmas Game televised to the whole country. If we couldn't get excited for this game we shouldn't be playing this game.

How did it feel to see the big FC Bayern Munich letters on the court? Does one feel some little tad of respect for such a famous club even though they have been away from the Beko BBL for so many years?

I didn't start watching soccer until I came to Europe a few years ago, and since I've been here Bayern hasn't been in the first league. So it was just another game. Obviously there is a history they have with Wuerzburg and anytime you play a derby game you need to play with more pride, but all opponents get the same respect.

The first half was a real defensive battle as FC Bayern Munich led 29-26. What did the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg want to do better in the second half?

Put the ball in the basket. We know we are one of the top defensive teams in the league and if we have to grind out a game it's not a bad thing, but we needed to get some easy points. Munich played very sound defense all game long and it wasn't easy, luckily down the stretch we were able to catch some breaks.

The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg buckled down in the fourth quarter outscoring FC Bayern Munich 20-11 and getting the win. What was key for getting the win?

I'd like to credit it to the energy the fans gave us. Both teams were tired and we were able to go a little deeper into the bench, but we definitely got a big shot from our Captain Ben Jacobson, an offensive rebound, and a two critical stops. An all around great effort from my teammates.

How rare is it to shoot 31% from the field and 27% from the three point line and still win? What did the club learn from this win?

We didn't learn anything new, we've known all along that defense gives us the best chance to win games, but this definitely proved that point.

How was it like playing against Jared Homan? What did you like most about his game?

He's good friends with Ben Jacobson so we've actually been keeping tabs on him all year (from Italy to Munich) and I have a ton of respect for his game. Ben spoke very highly of him on and off the court and he was a very solid defender. A sound offensive player that is both crafty and physical. Everything you look for in a good big man.

Your ex teammate Gilbert Brown was waived by the Boston Celtics. What was your fondest memory of him in Wurzburg?

A preseason game against Munich actually. He was getting into it with Sharrod Ford, a pretty big name in Europe, and he didn't back down. That showed us early, that he was a tough kid who loved to compete. He'll find a team somewhere and stick.

What was your favorite thing that you got out of the stocking on Christmas day as a kid?

None of the good gifts were ever in the stockings. Except for the Janet Jackson tickets at Madison Square Garden. I think I was in 7th grade and I had the biggest crush on her. It was great.

Thanks Jason for the chat.

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

GREECE

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

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

1. Charalampidi., KAO.	20.0
2. Christmas, AGOR	17.8
3. Kommatos, Marousi	17.1
4. Tapoutos, Aris	17.0
5. Roby, Peristeri GS	16.4
6. James, Aris	14.9
7. Gagaloudis, Marousi	14.6
8. Baynes, Ikaros	14.6
9. Taylor, Kavala	14.0
10. Dikoudis, PAOK	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Edin BAVCIC
  KAOD
  (210-F/C-84)
  Avg: 8.7

1. Bavcic, KAOD	8.7
2. Baynes, Ikaros	8.7
3. Stepheson, Panio.	8.1
4. Haritopoulos, Maro.	8.1
5. Goree, PAOK	7.1
6. Flowers, KAOD	6.7
7. Giddens, PAOK	6.7
8. Kommatos, Marousi	6.3
9. Tapoutos, Aris	6.2
10. Charissis, Koloss.	6.0

Assists Per Game

Vasilis XANTHOPOULOS
  Panio.
  (187-G-84)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Xanthopoulos, Pani.	5.3
2. Spanoulis, Olympia.	5.1
3. Gagaloudis, Marousi	5.0
4. Diamantidis, Panat.	5.0
5. Charalampidi., KAO.	4.3
6. James, Aris	4.2
7. Thompson, Ilysi.	4.1
8. Petroulas, Periste.	3.9
9. Wright, AGOR	3.8
10. Keys, Panionios	3.4

Steals Per Game

Darryl THOMPSON
  Ilysi.
  (173-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Thompson, Ilysi.	2.3
2. Wright, AGOR	2.3
3. Christmas, AGOR	1.9
4. James, Aris	1.7
5. Calathes, Panathin.	1.6
6. Tsamis, Kolossos	1.6
7. Georgalis, Kolossos	1.4
8. Chatzis, Ilysiakos	1.3
9. Tsaldaris, Aris	1.3
10. Hatten, Kolossos	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Sam MULDROW
  Aris
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Muldrow, Aris	1.9
2. O''Bryant, Kavala	1.6
3. Flowers, KAOD	1.3
4. Hines, Olympiakos	1.3
5. Scott, Peristeri GS	1.0
6. Giddens, PAOK	1.0
7. Johnson, Ikaros	1.0
8. Stepheson, Panio.	0.8
9. Michel, KAOD	0.8
10. Vougioukas, Pana.	0.8

Standings - A1

A1 Standings

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

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

HOLLAND

Standings - Promotie Divisie

Prom.Divisie Standings

1. Binnenland		13-0
2. Amsterdam		11-2
3. Leiden 2		10-3
4. De Hoppers		10-3
5. Cangeroes		9-4
6. Red Giants		7-5
7. Hoofddorp		5-8
8. Goba		5-8
9. Almonte		5-8
10. Akrides		4-8
11. Punch		4-9
12. De Groene		3-10
13. Rotterdam 2		3-10
14. Jugglers		1-12

PromotieDivisie Scores Week 13: It's Halftime!! - by Terry Cooper
Halftime has started for the teams in the 'Promotie' as teams will spend the Christmas and New Year's with family and friends. It is also a time for teams to see where they stand at the mid point of the season for there are thirteen games remaining to determine who will represent the divsion in post season play. So far Binnenland has proven that they are a force to be wreckoned with as remain the undefeated at the break while we have a cluster of teams that are just a few points from each other that could shift the standings at any key moment in the season. Then you have those at the bottom that you tend to wonder if there are here for serious business or just happy to be playing. One thing I can atleast say is that every team has won a game before the break so things are not totally unbalanced. The Red Giants made both a statement by punishing the Jugglers 100-48 to maybe ask Santa or God to reload their team for the New Year to play for pride in the league. Binnenland cruised to a 96-84 victory over De Groene Uilen while Cangaroes won easily over BV Hoofddorp 95-60 on the road. De Hoppers edged VBC Akrides 71-67 while Almonte was able to slip by Punch at home winning 65-61. Jirian Roodheuvel (180-G-88) and BC Amsterdam won over Rotterdam2 72-59 while Z&Z2 jumped on GOBA winning 83-65 finishing league play for 2011. Although there are 13 games left (exclucding Beker Cup for those who are still in) It will be something to see if some teams will use the new year as a new beginning to make business changes on the court to both save their position or their place in the league. It may seem like alot of games remaining but in actuality, the weeks go by fast so stay focused and prepared at all times. Have a Happy and safe holiday and as always Stay Tuned...

Week 13 Scores:

BV Hoofddorp - Cangeroes 60-95
Goba - Z&Z2 65-83
Red Giants - Jugglers 101-48
Almonte - Punch 65-61
De Hoppers - VBC Akrides 71-67
Binnenland - De Groene Uilen 96-84
Rotterdam2 - BC APOLLO A'dam 59-72

A Message 4 da young & gifted - by Terry Cooper
Today I was at the library when I read under Latvian Basket that a MSU player was given a lengthy suspension by the NCAA because he played with or on a professional team in Europe. By NCAA rule basketball players must be of amateur status in order to play on the college level then another player from UM was suspended 10 games for the same situation. MSU said it was shocked on how harsh the NCAA was on the ruling and compared the suspension to a MSU player that took impermissible gifts/funds while or before attending college. Taking gifts and being a professional player are two different avenues. As a player myself in the European region, several kids are practicing on professional teams every day and are labeled as 'bench players' which the team feels doesn't cause the player damage if they have dreams of playing collegiate basketball. I have seen this bit of trickery done several times on many teams in Europe to secure a promising talent for their club and he or she are an investment to the club if the player may blossom into a gifted prospect (e.g. NBA, Real Madrid, FCB, Tel Aviv, etc.). With everything in life there are advantages and disadvantages for the club, the University/College, but mostly to the player. One advantage is that European players at a young age are practicing and sometimes playing against former NBA, D-League, or High European level players that give them a greater advantage than the players in the US. The clubs sign these players to contracts for a certain amount of years as an investment into the player that may pan out for them financially in the future. This is nothing new in business however; players that have pursued to playing college basketball have endowed the consequences of playing for high level teams. So far in the past few years I have been writing for Eurobasket, I have seen and spoken to several players that have been suspended several games and sometimes the entire season because they have played on a team which the NCAA found was a professional team. Of course the players feel that it is unfair that this has happened and want to be given a 'pass' for something they did not know or do on purpose. Well this is a message for da young and gifted players of the European region if you truly want to pursue your dreams of playing in the NCAA and not be penalized by the committee, do yourselves a favor and DO NOT play with a team that are considered a professional team by the NCAA and definitely think twice about signing a contract with a professional team that may hinder your chances of experiencing a college basketball career. I will give you a great example: Werkendam see you as a young/gifted talent and you signed a contract with the team that plays on the highest level in your country and teams all over the European Region. You play with their farm team Werkendam2 and play some games with Werkendam but they have you as a 'bench player'. XX University wants you and gives you a scholarship and sends in the necessary paperwork to the NCAA clearance committee. When they do their research and gets your player's card, it's not going to say Werkendam2 but it will show that you played with WERKENDAM and the stats you played with that top team which by rule may go into: did you receive benefits over the restricted amount?, Where players on your team considered professional players? So on and so forth. This is what can turn your college dreams upside down. Now it's not only players that come from top league teams that have feel victim. Approximately 4 years ago a player in Germany was playing in Bundesliga2 Pro B for a team then he was offered a scholarship to play at a university. The NCAA ruled him ineligible because his team was considered a fully professional team that paid everyone above the restricted amount. He had to sit out the entire season, which the player decided to return back to Germany and continue playing.

As you see from these few examples that the NCAA is for real. ESPN America (In Europe) has shown short stories of scholar athletes that have either slipped through the cracks of the ruling or have been punished because they are considered professionals. On a real note, basketball players here in the US cannot go and play D-League, PBL, ABA, etc. and then decide that they want to play college sports because you are not an amateur athlete anymore. Well the same rule goes for players signing as a young prospect for pro teams. Some players are going to be more advanced than others. We see and know it when it comes to sports. Amateur is amateur no matter how you look at it and I am just passing this message to readers/players in the Dutch League but all over Europe because I am tired of seeing young players dreams crushed because they made a decision by signing with a team and not thinking what may happen if they want to pursue a college career. And for the record, going to a PREP school for 1 year doesnt necessarily put you back in amateur status. The NCAA is buckling down and running a tight ship with the amateur ruling. If you are player for an U16, U18 basketball club or the U16& U18 National basketball team, then do only that to prevent this situation happening to you. Just some advice to pass down so your dreams won't get knocked down.

Stay Tuned...

Results Basketball Days in Zwolle: - by Sanders Jackson

In the first annual Basketball Days tournament in Landstede Sportcentrum, the teams consist of host Landstede Basketball, the Nigerian national team, Brazilian member Gremio Mogi, Kazakhstanian champion Barsy Atyrau, British last season's runnerup Newcastle England, and American developmental team 94fifty All-Stars.
Game #1: Gremio Mogi - 94fifty All Stars 88-78
Game #2: National Team Nigeria - Barsy Atyrau 87-75
Game #3: Barsy Atyrau - Newcastle Eagles 93-84
Game #4: 94fifty All Stars - Landstede Basketball wins over 94 Fifty Stars by the score of 76-66.

In the Landstede- 94 fifty All-Stars matchup, the Landstede team's height advantage and teamwork paid dividends in the end, as Landstede found adjustments to the quickness advantage of their opponents, while also solving the opponents' zone midway in the last quarter, with Landstede winning by the score of 76-66. The leading scorers for Landstede were Cameron Wells (185-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Citadel) with 20 and Gerald Robinson (204-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tenn-Martin) adding 17. Landstede will face Newcastle Eagles today.

For more information on the Basketball Days tournament, go to the website http://www.basketballdays.com/.

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

HUNGARY

Round 13 - by Balazs Radics
PECSI VSK-PANNONPOWER-KIS RABA MENTI TAKAREK SOPRONI KC 74-72 (24-16, 11-19, 20-16, 19-21)
PECS: VASZOJEVICS 17/9, Jara Doyne (193-G/F-84, college: Mississippi) 23/3, CSIRICS 21/12, TOTH N. 9/3, Eilingsfeld 4. sub: Kovacs P., Lepsenyi, Deak. Head Coach: Csirke Ferenc
SOPRON: J. THOMAS 14/9, MOLNAR A. 17/3, RUBIN 22/6, Gombas, Egemonye 12. sub: Vesztergom 3/3, Boldizsar, Lakatos 2, Keresztes 2. HC: Horvath Imre
FORTRESS KORMEND-JASZBERENYI KSE 90-72 (25-19, 15-22, 25-17, 25-14)
KORMEND: Mladenovics 3/3, FERENCZ 20/12, POWELL 13, BELL 27/3, Townes 8. sub: Fodor, DAVID 6, Rujak 5/3, Cseh 2, Sonyak 5/3, Csapai, Smenek 1. HC: Sabali Balazs
JASZBERNY: Sormaz 2, HODGES 18/6, Medve 11/9, AUSTIN 18/9, Horti 12. sub: Borszeki 3/3, Helmeczi 4, Wehner 4, Varga. HC: Horvath Balazs

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ICELAND

Tindastoll add Big British on the roster - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Tindastoll have sign Myles Luttman (210-C) 6'11' British player. Myles Myles Luttman (210-C) played College ball at SMU. Did not post high numbers on scoresheet average 0,5 points per game.
KR have sign 2 new import players instead of Ed Horton and David Tairu. The new signing are Joshua Brown (187-G-88, college: Towson) 6'2' point guard that played College ball at Towson
and as pro in Romania until Christmas for Dinamo Bucurest wher he average 21,5 points, 5,6 rebounds and 4,9 assist.
the other player KR sign is Robert Ferguson (203-F/C-85, college: St.Joseph's) 6'8' from St. Josephs where he average 11,9 points and 4,8 rebounds, started this season at Defenson in Uruguay where he average 22,8 points and 6,3 rebounds

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INDONESIA

Satria Muda finishes Bandung Seri I undefeated - by Eurobasket News
After 9 rounds played we can already see who rules in the NBL and who belongs to weaker ones.

The most interesting game of round 9 was a home defeat of 5th ranked CLS Knights (3-3) by fourth ranked Garuda (4-2) who outscored them by 16 points 64-48 in the game for the fifth place. The game without a history. Garuda led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 22 CLS Knights turnovers. Vinton Nolland (194-82) stepped up and scored 8 points and 8 rebounds for the winners and forward Christ Gideon (188-84) chipped in 13 points. The best for the losing side was international forward Dwi Haryoko (193-85) with 9 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Despite that victory Garuda went down to fifth position due to points difference. CLS Knights at the other side dropped to the sixth place with three games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Bottom-ranked Satya Wacana (0-6) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their sixth consecutive match to tenth ranked Pacific Caesar (2-4) 62-57. Forward Gege Nagata (185-88) nailed 22 points for the winning side and Eko Sasmito accounted for 13 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Respati Pamungkas (180-91) came up with 17 points and 4 steals for Satya Wacana in the defeat. Satya Wacana's coach Danny Kosasih tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Pacific Caesar moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Comfort Mobile. Satya Wacana at the other side still closes the standings with six games lost. Pacific Caesar will play against Comfort Mobile (#9) in Jakarta in the next round. Satya Wacana will have a break next round.
Fifth ranked Pelita Jaya (5-1) crushed at home 8th ranked Bima Sakti (1-4) by 37 points 74-37, which is the biggest margin this round on Sunday night. The best player for the winners was Dimas Aryo Dewanto who scored 22 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro who recorded 16 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. Pelita Jaya have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Defending champion moved-up to second place. Bima Sakti lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with four games lost. They share it with NSH GMC Riau. Pelita Jaya's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Jakarta to the arena Satria Muda.

CLS Knights - Garuda 48-64

The most interesting game of round 9 was a home defeat of 5th ranked CLS Knights (3-3) by fourth ranked Garuda (4-2) who outscored them by 16 points 64-48 in the game for the fifth place. The game without a history. Garuda led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They also forced 22 CLS Knights turnovers. Vinton Nolland (194-82) stepped up and scored 8 points and 8 rebounds for the winners and forward Christ Gideon (188-84) chipped in 13 points. The best for the losing side was international forward Dwi Haryoko (193-85) with 9 points and 8 rebounds and the former international Andrie Ekayana (182-82) scored 10 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Despite that victory Garuda went down to fifth position due to points difference. CLS Knights at the other side dropped to the sixth place with three games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Garuda: C.Gideon 13+2reb+1ast, N.Fritzgerald 9+4reb+1ast, O.Sura 9+2reb+4ast, T.Febyanto 8+2reb+4ast, V.Nolland 8+8reb, W.Wijaya 7+3reb
CLS Knights: A.Ekayana 10+6reb+2ast, D.Haryoko 9+8reb+2ast, H.Sudjana 8, R.Utomo 6+3reb, S.Febiansyakh 5+1reb, T.Agus 3+1reb

Pacific Caesar - Satya Wacana 62-57

Bottom-ranked Satya Wacana (0-6) is still winless. This time they lost on the road their sixth consecutive match to tenth ranked Pacific Caesar (2-4) 62-57. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Satya Wacana won third quarter 24-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Pacific Caesar dominated on the defensive end, holding Satya Wacana to just 3 points in second quarter. Pacific Caesar forced 20 Satya Wacana turnovers. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. Forward Gege Nagata (185-88) nailed 22 points for the winning side and center Eko Sasmito (188-85) accounted for 13 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Respati Pamungkas (180-91) came up with 17 points and 4 steals and guard Musthofa Ramadhan (186-90) added 13 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Satya Wacana in the defeat. Satya Wacana's coach Danny Kosasih tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Pacific Caesar moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Comfort Mobile. Satya Wacana at the other side still closes the standings with six games lost. Pacific Caesar will play against Comfort Mobile (#9) in Jakarta in the next round. Satya Wacana will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Pacific Caesar: G.Nagata 22+4reb+1ast, E.Sasmito 13+7reb+1ast, H.Listiyono 11+5reb, D.Galih 9+3reb, P.King Dhay 3+1reb+3ast, M.Fauzia 2+1reb
Satya Wacana: R.Pamungkas 17+4reb+1ast, M.Ramadhan 13+6reb, E.Wiratama Nasution 7+10reb+1ast, Y.Sua 7+5reb+1ast, J.Lolowang 5, V.Wuwungan 4+7reb+1ast

Pelita Jaya - Bima Sakti 74-37

Fifth ranked Pelita Jaya (5-1) crushed at home 8th ranked Bima Sakti (1-4) by 37 points 74-37, which is the biggest margin this round on Sunday night. The game without a history. Pelita Jaya led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Bima Sakti to just 7 points in third quarter. Pelita Jaya held Bima Sakti to an opponent 21.2 percent shooting from the field compared to 36.3 percent accuracy of the winners. Pelita Jaya forced 22 Bima Sakti turnovers. The best player for the winners was international forward Dimas Aryo Dewanto (180-86) who scored 22 points and 5 rebounds. The former international guard Erick Sebayang (180-83) chipped in 14 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-89) who recorded 16 points and 5 rebounds and Bima Rizky Ardiansyah (182-90) added 6 points and 6 rebounds respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Pelita Jaya have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Defending champion moved-up to second place. Bima Sakti lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with four games lost. They share it with NSH GMC Riau. Pelita Jaya's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Jakarta to the arena Satria Muda.
Top scorers:
Pelita Jaya: D.Aryo Dewanto 22+5reb+1ast, E.Sebayang 14+3reb, F.Dini 8+7reb, Y.Mardiyansyah 7+6reb+1ast, K.Purwanto 6+4reb+1ast, I.Gusti Rustawijaya 5+1ast
Bima Sakti: Y.Dwi Priasmoro 16+5reb+1ast, S.Cahyadi 6+1reb, B.Rizky Ardiansyah 6+6reb+1ast, R.Dwi Purnomo 4+5reb, B.Sugianto 3+6reb+1ast, I.Mu'Ammal 2+3reb

Standings - IBL

NBL Standings

1. Satria Muda		5-0
2. Pelita Jaya		5-1
3. Aspac		4-1
4. Muba Hangtuah		4-1
5. Garuda		4-2
6. CLS Knights		3-3
7. Stadium Jak.		2-3
8. Comfort Mobile		2-4
9. Pacific Caesar		2-4
10. Bima Sakti		1-4
11. NSH GMC Riau		1-4
12. Satya Wacana		0-6

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Ary CHANDRA
  Pelita J.
  (182-F-84)
  Avg: 14.2

1. Chandra, Pelita J.	14.2
2. Nagata, Pacific	14.1
3. Sapto, Muba H.	13.6
4. Wuwungan, Satya W.	13.1
5. Wisnu, Satria Muda	13.0
6. Dwi Priasmor., Bim.	12.9
7. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.	12.9
8. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	12.1
9. Ahmad, Satria Muda	11.3
10. Sebayang, Pelita	11.2

Rebounds Per Game

Galank GUNAWAN
  Satria M.
  (194-PF-87)
  Avg: 12.5

1. Gunawan, Satria M.	12.5
2. Sitepu, Satria M.	10.2
3. Poedjakesuma, Peli.	7.7
4. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	7.5
5. Haryoko, CLS K.	7.3
6. Wuwungan, Satya W.	7.3
7. Indrawan, Pelita J.	7.0
8. Damanik, NSH G.	6.6
9. Heryadi, Muba H.	6.6
10. Sasmito, Pacific	6.3

Assists Per Game

Dirk GERUNGAN
  Aspac
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Gerungan, Aspac	3.6
2. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.6
3. Sartika, Bima Sakti	3.4
4. Widyanto, Pacifi.	3.1
5. Uniputty, Comfor.	3.1
6. Wilopo, Muba H.	2.8
7. Hardianus, Muba H.	2.8
8. Muharri, CLS K.	2.6
9. Dhay, Pacific	2.5
10. Wahyudi, Pacific	2.4

Steals Per Game

Kelly PURWANTO
  Pelita J.
  (177-PG-83)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.2
2. Uniputty, Comfor.	2.8
3. Wijaya, Garuda	2.5
4. Gerungan, Aspac	2.4
5. Muharri, CLS K.	2.3
6. Sura, Garuda	2.2
7. Michel, Satria Muda	2.2
8. Wisnu, Satria Muda	2.2
9. Sartika, Bima Sakti	2.1
10. Ferdiansyah, Stad.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Christian Ronaldo SITEPU
  Satria M.
  (200-C/F-86)
  Avg: 3

1. Sitepu, Satria M.	3.0
2. Teguh, Muba H.	2.4
3. Ruslan, Stadium	2.0
4. Thoyib, Aspac	1.8
5. Damanik, NSH G.	1.6
6. Sitaniapesy, Comfo.	1.6
7. Arizki, Aspac	1.1
8. Gunawan, Satya W.	1.1
9. Indrawan, Pelita J.	1.0
10. Sasmito, Pacific	1.0

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ISRAEL

Clemente's double-double lands him National League Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
26-year old power forward Ramon Clemente (200-PF-85) put on an amazing game in the last round for Kiryat Tivon and receives a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 12.
He had a double-double of 33 points and 22 rebounds, while his team crushed Lev Hasharon (#10, 5-7) with 24-point margin 104-80. Kiryat Tivon is placed at 5th position in Israeli National League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Kiryat Tivon will need more victories to improve their 7-5 record. Clemente turned to be Kiryat Tivon's top player in his first season with the team. Wichita State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Clemente. Clemente is in league's top in points (6th best: 22.0ppg) and averages solid 2.0bpg and 62.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Raviv Pitshon (201-C/F-89) of Ironi Ramat Gan. He is a in his first season at Ironi Ramat Gan. In the last game Pitshon recorded impressive double-double of 21 points and 14 rebounds. Of course Ironi Ramat Gan cruised to a 82-71 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Hapoel K/S (#14, 2-10). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. But Ironi Ramat Gan managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 12th place. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 4-8 record. Pitshon is a newcomer at Ironi Ramat Gan and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

Third place about best performers goes to another Ironi Ramat Gan's star - forward Rodney Webb (200-F-83). Webb scored 25 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was another key player of Ironi Ramat Gan, helping his team with a 82-71 win against slightly lower-ranked Hapoel K/S (#14, 2-10). The chances of Ironi Ramat Gan not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 8 games, recording just four victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Webb could try to bring Ironi Ramat Gan's a little bit higher in the standings. Webb has individually a great season in Israel. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.4rpg (8th best). He also has 1.8bpg and FGP: 56.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Curtis Kelly (205-PF-88) of Hapoel T-A - 26 points and 2 assists
5. Stacey Moragne (195-F-83) of Elitzur Ramla - 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Errick McCollum (185-G-88) of Hapoel K/S - 24 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Bilal Benn (196-G/F-86) of Ironi Nes-Ziona - 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Ryan Bacon (200-F-88) of Elitzur Ramla - 19 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Jermaine Hall (196-F-80) of Macc.B.Yaakov - 25 points and 3 rebounds
10. Yoad Bet-Yosef (182-G-87) of Macc.B.Yaakov - 24 points, 2 rebounds and 13 assists

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

Maccabi Haifa Nearing Deal With Jeremis Smith - by David Pick
Nearly two-weeks after Sean Williams pulled the plug, leaving a hole in Maccabi Haifa's paint; the northern Israeli team seemed to have found a replacement in the likes of Georgia Tech alumnus -- Jeremis Smith.

The hard-nosed athletic 25-year-old big man graduated from college in 2007-2008 recording almost double-double averages of 10.5ppg and 7.1rpg. Smith's European career doesn't include playing in any of the top leagues, rather those in South and North America: Mexico (12.5ppg, 5.3rpg and 1.6apg), Argentina (7.7ppg, 4.3rpg) and Venezuela.

Smith, who began the 2011-2012 season with the Fuerza Regia Monterrey (LNBP) but left shortly after, looks to make a turning point in his career.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @DubiPick

Maccabi Electra officially confirms Demond Mallet - by Eurobasket News
Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: McNeese St.) officially became a new member of Maccabi Electra. The player signed a deal for rest of the season, including an option for the 2012/13. Mallet played his last game for Charleroi a week ago and their rival was Maccabi. The American scored 13 points in this meeting and Charleroi faced with 69-86 home loss. Demond Mallet appeared 12 times in Euroleague this season (including qualifications) averaging 16.6 points, 3.1 assists and 2.3 rebounds. He also added 16.3 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.8 apg 10 games in Belgian championship. Demond Mallet led Charleroi to Belgian league title last season. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Player of the Year -11. In the past, Mallet played for Turk Telekom, Joventut, Koln and Bamberg. Maccabi Electra is placed to Group H of the Top 16 phase and their rivals will be Barcelona, Cantu and Zalgiris.

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ITALY

Malik Hairston to miss next 3 weeks - by Eurobasket News
Malik Hairston (198-G-87, college: Oregon) will miss next three weeks of competition due to injury (Achilles tendon). He should be ready for the beginning of the Euroleague Top 16 phase, which starts on January 18. Hairston appeared in 10 Euroleague games this season averaging 13.9 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists. He also added 12.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg for 8 games in SerieA. Malik Hairston joined Milano during the pre-season. He spent 2010/11 with Montepashi Siena helping them to defend the SerieA title and also to win the Italian Cup. It was his first year in Europe. From 2008 to 2010, Malik Hairston played for the San Antonio Spurs and D-League team Austin Toros. He graduated at the University of Oregon in 2008. In 2005, Hairtson played for the USA U18 National Team.

Poeta's 14 points and 8 assists give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
26-year old guard Giuseppe Poeta (190-G-85) put on an amazing game in the last round for CS Bologna and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
He had the game-high 14 points adding five rebounds and eight assists for CS Bologna in his team's victory, helping them to beat Benetton TV (#11, 5-6) 74-61. CS Bologna maintains the 4th position in Italian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. CS Bologna will need more victories to improve their 7-4 record. It's Poeta's second year at CS Bologna and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Poeta has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in assists (6th best: 4.1apg) and averages solid 2.1spg.

Second best performed player last round was Marques Green (167-PG-82) of Sidigas AV. He is American-FYR Macedonian guard in his 2nd season at Sidigas AV. In the last game Green recorded impressive 23 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course Sidigas AV cruised to a 84-74 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Pepsi Caserta (#10, 6-5). This victory allowed Sidigas AV to move up to 6th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 7-5 record is not bad and everything may still change. Green is well-known at Sidigas AV and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Benjamin Ortner (206-F/C-83) of Benetton TV (#11). Ortner scored 18 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Ortner's great performance Benetton TV lost 61-74 to the higher-ranked CS Bologna (#4, 7-4). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Benetton TV ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 6 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Ortner could help Benetton TV to bring them higher in the standings. The season just started for Ortner as he played only first game. But it already looks like he can be team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79) of Fabi Shoes - 5 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Linton Johnson (203-F-80) of Sidigas AV - 9 points and 13 rebounds
6. Antonio Maestranzi (178-PG-84) of Acea Roma - 16 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Kevin Fletcher (207-C-80) of Pepsi Caserta - 17 points and 10 rebounds
8. Ronald Slay (203-F-81) of Sidigas AV - 14 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Drake Diener (196-G-81) of Banco di Sard. - 27 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Brian Sacchetti (200-F-86) of Banco di Sard. - 12 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists

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

The Euroleague TOP 16 draw from the italian's point of view - by Giovanni Bargna
The TOP 16 draw took place in Barcelona, Spain, early today. Italy gets into this round with three teams thanks to the great exploit of EA7 Armani Milano in the last regular season game at the Pionir Arena. Montepaschi Siena and Bennet Cantu obtained earlier the qualification.

Siena in the 'spanish' group
If a situation in which two teams coming off the same regular season group re-face each other in the top 16 round was forbidden by the draw rules, a new group made up of more than one squad from the same country could not be avoided due to the presence of three italian, three Turkish and even four spanish teams.
That is why Montepaschi got into a very particular group along with Real Madrid, Unicaja and Gescrap Bilbao.
Looking at the first pre-draw seed no-one wanted to share the group with a still unbeaten CSKA but Real Madrid is a very tough opponent. A battle with Fenerbahce could be a little easier for the italian champs.
Unicaja Malaga enters the Top 16 for the seventh consecutive season and has its key players in the paint. It won't be easy for coach Pianigiani's guys to stop the tandem of Joel Freeland (208-F-87) and Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84). In this match Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) (currently injured) could become decisive for Siena. Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) is one of the main offensive weapons for Malaga on the perimeter with 10 ppg.
Out off fourth seed came Gescrap Bilbao. Coach Katsikaris and his players got the ticket to this round by defeating rival Caja Laboral in a do or die game last week.At their first time in eurloeague they reached the TOP 16 phase specially thanks to Marko Banic (205-F-84) (15.7 ppg) and Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) (10.5 ppg).
Considering the Top 16 phase as a tough round in any case, it seems a good draw for Siena.
Calendar : MPS - Bilbao (Jan 18/19), Real M - MPS (Jan 25/26), Unicaja - MPS (Feb 1/2), MPS - Unicaja (Feb 8/9), Bilbao - MPS (Feb 22/23), MPS - Real M (Feb 29/ Mar 1)

GROUP F: Real Madrid, Montepaschi Siena, Unicaja Malaga, Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao

A good deal for EA7 Armani Milano
Milano put its best effort in a very thrilling game at the Pionir Arena last week, downed Partizan Belgrade and entered the TOP 16 phase 'at the buzzer'. The draw held in Barcelona put the italian team in group G along with Fenerbahce, Panathinaikos and Unics Kazan. Considering Milano was coming from the fourth seed coach Scariolo and his guys should be very happy about this draw result.
Though the final four will take place at Istanbul and the Turkish team was built to get there, Fenerbahce Ulker seems to be a good gift from the first seed specially if compared to CSKA Moscow and Barcelona. The Turkish champs return to the TOP-16 for the second consecutive season and will count on a very good roster made up of a bunch of reliable players. Top scorer Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) (11.5 ppg.), Omer Onan (194-G-78) (9.7 ppg.),Roko-Leni Ukic (196-G-84) (9.7 ppg.), Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87, college: Baylor) (9.2 ppg.) and James Gist (205-F-86) (9.1 ppg., 5.1 rpg.). Moreover Mirsad Turkcan (206-F-76) is expected to recover from an injury soon and help the team in this round.
Panathinaikos clinched the second spot in regular season standings because was downed twice by CSKA, but is a great team and looking forward to a ticket for the Istanbul Final 4. Three big names have pushed the team so far this season. Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) (10.8 ppg.), Romain Sato (194-G/F-81, college: Xavier) (10.3 ppg.) and Steven Smith (203-F-83, college: La Salle) (10.2 ppg.)

Unics Kazan got third in regular season group D with a 7-3 record. A great balance so far for the russians even if Union Olimpija and Asseco Prokom seemed not competitive this season. The team coached by Pashutin can count on experienced players such as Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) (16.5 ppg.) and Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) (12.2 ppg.)
Maybe the best draw result possible for Milano that will battle with Pana and Fenerbahce for the first two spots.
Calendar : EA7 - Pana (Jan 18/19), Fenerbahce - EA7 (Jan 25/26), Unics - EA7 (Feb 1/2), EA7 - Unics (Feb 8/9), Pana - EA7 (Feb 22/23), EA7 - Fenerbahce (Feb 29/Mar 1)

GROUP G: Fenerbahce Ulker, Panathinaikos Athens, Unics Kazan, EA7 Emporio Armani

A tough challenge for Bennet Cantu
It was 1982 when Cantu faced Maccabi Tel Aviv at Koln, Germany, for the european title. That game, won for 86-80, put the italian team on the top of europe for the first time (before re-clinching the title in 1983). Almost 30 years far from that game Bennet Cantu finds Maccabi on its way again. This TOP 16 will be a very hard challenge for the team coached by Andrea Trinchieri.
Barcelona completed the regular season with an almost perfect record. 9-1 downed only by Siena in Italy. Coach Pascual's team can count on the best defense of the tournament and on some of the very best players of this competition such as Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) (14.7 ppg), Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) (9.2 ppg) and Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina) (8.8 ppg). Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) (12.1 ppg) became the Euroleague's all-time top scorer a couple of weeks ago.
Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv got second in group C behind Real Madrid. In addition to the 1982 final game another link between Cantu and Maccabi is Sofoklis Schortsanitis. The big man from Greece, drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2003, left his own country in 2003 for the first time and flew to Cantu where he played an entire season. Sofoklis averaged 11.7 ppg in this regular season. Lior Eliyahu (206-F/C-85, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) (11.2 ppg) and the US guard Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) (6.8 ppg) are other two key players of the Israeli team.
Zalgiris qualified as fourth in group B (4-6) thanks to three straight win in the last four games. The lithuanian team has recently added to its roster Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) (who's back to Kaunas) and always gets a great help by Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) (17.5 ppg). Paulius Jankunas (205-F-84, agency: Interperformances) and Robertas Javtokas (211-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) put size under the boards and will be tough opponents for Denis Marconato (212-C-75) and Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89).
Bennet Cantu is required for a great exploit to get to the next phase but this won't be the first time in the last period.
Calendar : Barcelona - Cantu (Jan 18/19), Cantu - Zalgiris (Jan 25/26), Cantu - Maccabi (Feb 1/2), Maccabi - Cantu (Feb 8/9), Cantu - Barcelona (Feb 22/23), Zalgiris - Cantu (Feb 29/Mar 1)

GROUP H: Barcelona Regal, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Bennet Cantu, Zalgiris Kaunas

Standings - SerieA

SerieA Standings

1. Montepaschi		9-2
2. Armani MI		8-3
3. Angelico BI		7-4
4. CS Bologna		7-4
5. Bennet Cantu		7-5
6. Sidigas AV		7-5
7. Umana Venezia		6-5
8. Cimberio VA		6-5
9. Scavolini PS		6-5
10. Pepsi Caserta		6-5
11. Benetton TV		5-6
12. Banco di Sard.		5-6
13. Acea Roma		5-7
14. Fabi Shoes		4-7
15. Novipiu CM		3-8
16. Vanoli CR		3-9
17. Banca Tercas		2-10

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KAZAKHSTAN

BC Astana clinch Cup title - by Eurobasket News
BC Astana claimed the first title in teams history. They celebrated Kazakhstan Cup title. The Cup was held in Astana in round-robin format. Five teams fought for the top place. Two teams BC Astana and Barsy Atyrau arrived at the final day of the competition undefeated and clashed for the title. BC Astana overcame their archrivals 72:68 to celebrate the title. Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 17 points to lead the effort. BC Astana started the game strongly. They ensured a 19:13 lead after ten minutes of action. BC Astana stretched the gap to as many as 7 points at the interval 38:31. Barsy Atyrau cut the deficit to just three points at the final intermission 55:58. But BC Astana limited Barsy to 13 points in the fourth frame and surged for the win at the end. Rawle Marshall (201-G-82, college: Oakland) posted 14 points, while Eric Williams (206-C-84, college: Wake Forest) contributed 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Dmitri Dyatlovsky (195-G-85, agency: Promotex) answered with 12 points for Barsy Atyrau. Dmitriy Gavrilov (203-F-86) finished with 11 points in defeat.
Kaspiy claimed the third position. They overcame BK Atyrau 70:53 in their final game to finish with two wins in four games. Dmitri Dogadin (204-F-81) accounted for 15 points, while Artem Valov (205-F-86, college: Three Rivers CC) produced 14 points in the victory.

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LEBANON

Standings - Division A

Div.A Standings

1. Champville		9-0
2. Al Riyadi		8-1
3. Sagesse		5-5
4. Byblos		5-5
5. Anibal		4-4
6. Hoops		4-5
7. Bejjeh		4-5
8. Moutahed		3-5
9. Antranik		2-7
10. Chabab		0-7

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LITHUANIA

Mockevicius will replace Benn in Naglis - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Naglis Palangos found a replacement for their leader Bilal Benn (196-G/F-86, college: Niagara) who left the team this week. Mantas Mockevicius (186-G-93) joined the team and is registered for tonight's game versus Lietuvos rytas Vilnius.

Last summer Mockevicius played in the Lithuanian U18 team and gathered 4.3 points, 2 rebounds and 1 steal in the European Championship.

Mockevicius played in Naglis before. Last season he averaged 3.8 points in 7 minutes in the LKL and 4.5 points, 2 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 10 minutes in the Baltic Basketball League.

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Povilas BUTKEVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 18.7

1. Butkevicius, Rudup.	18.7
2. Valanciunas, Lietu.	17.1
3. Urbonas, Juventus	16.3
4. Mazeika, Neptunas	14.9
5. Benn, Naglis Palan.	14.5
6. Lowe, Kedainiai	14.4
7. Hughes, Pieno Z.	13.9
8. Orelikas, Rudupis	13.6
9. Pakamanis, Juven.	13.5
10. Johnson, Naglis P.	13.3

Rebounds Per Game

Dane JOHNSON
  Naglis P.
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Johnson, Naglis P.	10.4
2. Butkevicius, Rudup.	9.1
3. McClure, Kedainiai	8.0
4. Petrukonis, Juven.	7.6
5. Valanciunas, Lietu.	7.6
6. Benn, Naglis Palan.	7.5
7. Adomaitis, Kedaini.	7.4
8. Bowles, Siauliai	6.5
9. Matulionis, Techas.	6.4
10. Katelynas, Lietuv.	6.3

Assists Per Game

Mantas KALNIETIS
  Zalgiris
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	5.3
2. Peciukeviciu., Sak.	5.2
3. Broadus, Siauliai	5.0
4. Dainys, Neptunas	4.9
5. Ezerskis, Techasas	4.9
6. Rice, Lietuvos.	4.8
7. Maceina, Juventus	4.4
8. Kelys, Pieno Z.	3.6
9. Janavicius, Baltai	3.5
10. Hughes, Pieno Z.	3.4

Steals Per Game

TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Hughes, Pieno Z.	2.8
2. Lowe, Neptunas	2.3
3. Broadus, Siauliai	2.1
4. Collins, Zalgiris	2.0
5. Seibutis, Lietuv.	2.0
6. Dainys, Neptunas	1.9
7. Kelys, Pieno Z.	1.9
8. Benn, Naglis Palan.	1.7
9. Weems, Zalgiris	1.6
10. Matulionis, Techa.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Jonas VALANCIUNAS
  Lietuv.
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Valanciunas, Lietu.	2.6
2. Johnson, Naglis P.	1.7
3. Petrukonis, Juven.	1.3
4. Staniulis, Techasas	1.3
5. Morgan, Pieno Z.	1.2
6. Samardziski, Lietu.	1.1
7. Butkevicius, Rudup.	1.1
8. Kairys, Pieno Z.	1.1
9. Barnes, Kedainiai	1.0
10. McClure, Kedainiai	1.0

LKL: Lietuvos Rytas leaves no chances to Naglis Palangos - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Lietuvos rytas Vilnius - Naglis Palangos 107:55

Lietuvos rytas Vilnius Vilnius has claimed its 10th victory in 11 matches in the BEKO-LKL tournament and the largest one in terms of the winning margin. They left no hope for Naglis Palangos Palangos (2-9) defeating them 107:55 (22:15, 27:15, 36:11, 22:14). The previous largest winning margin for Lietuvos rytas Vilnius this season was 34 points reached five days ago against Juventus-LKSK Utenos - 102:68.

Palanga managed to stay quite close to Lietuvos rytas Vilnius during the first quarter and their deficit was only six points at the beginning of the second. However, Lietuvos rytas Vilnius then spurted 15:5 and gained a 16 point lead - 39:23. From then on the difference grew rapidly and after another run of 17:0 it reached 46 points - 87:41. Vilnius kept their pace during the remaining time and claimed an easy victory 107:55.

Lietuvos rytas Vilnius will play their next match tomorrow (12.29) versus Sakalai Vilnius.

Lietuvos rytas Vilnius: Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) 22 (11 rebs), Vilmantas Dilys (208-F-87, agency: Interperformances) 16, Lawrence Roberts (205-F/C-82, college: Mississippi St.) and Renaldas Seibutis (196-G-85) 12.

Naglis Palangos: Nikita Barinov (200-F-91) 19, Paulius Kleiza (195-SF-88) 12, Mantas Mockevicius (186-G-93) 10.

Marijonas Petravicius signs in Ukraine, Azovmash - by Eurobasket News
Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) will continue his career in Ukraine. The Lithuanian big guy penned a deal with Azovmash for rest of the season. He will replace Hasan Rizvic. Petravicius spent last season with Armani Jeans Milano. He appeared 18 times with them in SerieA averaging 3.9 points and 2.1 rebounds. For five Euroleague games he collected 8.2 ppg and 3.2 rpg. Petravicius played for the Milano team in 2009/10 as well. Before that, he spent three very successful years with Lietuvos Rytas. He helped them win EuroCup title in 2009. That same year Rytas also celebrated in LKL, Baltic league and Lithuanian Cup. Marijonas Petravicius was named Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LKL Center of the Year -08, 09. In the past, he played for Ventspils, Oostende and Mitteldeutscher. He is active member of the Lithuanian NT. Petravicius played two games at the EuroBasket 2011 registering 4.5 ppg and 1.5 rpg.

Euroleague Draw: Zalgiris will play in group H - by Adomas Kraunevicius
B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas has found out their opponents in the Euroleague Top16 competition: they will play in group H along with Regal FC Barcelona, Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv and Bennet Cantu.

Group E will consist of CSKA Moscow, Olympiakos, Anadolu Efes Istanbul and Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul.

Group F will have Real Madrid, Montepaschi Siena, Unicaja Malaga and Gescrap Bizkaia Bilbao Basket.

Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul, Panathinaikos Athens, Unics Kazan and EA7 Emporio Armani Milano will compete in group G.

According to Euroleague chairman Jordi Bertomeu, this was the last Euroleague Top16 draw and from next season the Euroleague format will be different. The teams will play more matches in the second stage as the number of teams will increase. This wish was expressed by most teams. Top16 will most likely have two groups which will consist of 8 teams each.

Bertomeu also confirmed that next season, Euroleague matches will take place on Thursdays and Fridays in order to avoid clashes with other important sporting events.

Valanciunas and Valentiene voted Lithuanian players of the year - by Adomas Kraunevicius
Lithuanian fans have given their votes on the best Lithuanian players of 2011. They have named Lietuvos rytas Vilnius center Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) and VICI Aistes Kaunas guard Rima Valentiene (170-PG-78) as best male and female players of the year.

Jonas Valanciunas has led the Lithuanian U19 team to gold medals in the U19 World Championships in Riga and was a solid help for the Lithuanian national basketball team in the 2011 Eurobasket. He was selected fifth by the Toronto Raptors in this year's NBA Draft.

Rimantas Kaukenas (192-G-77, college: Seton Hall) came in second in the voting, followed by Donatas Motiejunas (213-F/C-90, agency: Interperformances), Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances).

Guard Rima Valentiene was voted the best female player by 27.5% of the fans. She had solid statistics in the club season however VICI Aistes struggled in the women's Euroleague and Lithuanian women's national team did not qualify for the 2012 Olympic tournament.

Ausra Bimbaite (178-SG-82) came in second, followed by Sandra Linkeviciene (176-G-82), Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) and Lina Pikciute (192-F-90).

The voting was first initiated in 2008 when both men and women competed in the same category. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) was named best played in 2008. In 2009 the voting was split into best male and female players - Linas Kleiza (203-F-85, college: Missouri) and Gintare Petronyte triumphed that year whereas in 2010 Linas Kleiza repeated his success and was joined by Sandra Linkeviciene.

Standings - LKL

LKL Standings

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

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MEXICO

Standings - LNBP

LNBP Standings

1. Fuerza Regia		32-6
2. Halc.Rojos		29-6
3. Toros		28-11
4. Pioneros		26-13
5. Soles		25-13
6. Huracanes		24-15
7. Halc.Xalapa		23-14
8. Corr.Victoria		16-22
9. Barreteros		16-23
10. Abejas		16-23
11. Lechugueros		13-23
12. Panteras		9-29
13. Aguilas Rojas		6-33
14. Volcanes		0-32

Fuerza Regia Monterrey lands Hastings - by Eurobasket Center
Fuerza Regia Monterrey (LNBP) strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old American swingman Jerel Hastings (196-G/F-86, college: Albany). In his first game he scored 13 points and grabbed 4 rebounds helping his new team beat Corr.Victoria 99-98. Hastings played most recently at Asociaci�n Deportiva Naval Marina (ECU). He graduated University at Albany in 2009 and actually missed last season. It will be his third season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Correcaminos UAT Victoria adds Green to their roster - by Eurobasket Center
Correcaminos UAT Victoria (LNBP) added to their roster 31-year old American forward Jermaine Green (203-F-80, college: N.Texas). In his first game he scored 8 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. However his new team lost to Fuerza Regia 98-99. Green played most recently at Ovarense Dolce Vita (Portugal). He is a very experienced player. Green played also pro basketball in Estonia, Finland, Holland, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Portugal and Romania. He graduated University of North Texas in 2003 and actually missed last season. It will be his nineth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun lands Roche - by Eurobasket Center
Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun (LNBP) strengthened their roster with addition of 23-year old American forward Nathaniel Roche (203-F-104kg-88, college: Belhaven). In his first game he scored 2 points helping his new team beat Barreteros 95-76. Roche played most recently at Universitario Salto (Uruguay). He just graduated Belhaven College and actually missed last season. It will be his first season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

LNBP Round 41: Fuerza Regia edges Correcaminos by one point - by Eurobasket News
Eighth-ranked Correcaminos (16-22) made lots of trouble for first ranked Fuerza Regia (32-6) in Ciudad Victoria on Tuesday. The visitors from Monterrey managed to secure only one-point victory 99-98. However their fans expected much easier game. Correcaminos were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Jeremis Smith (203-86, college: Georgia Tech) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 13 rebounds. Guard Donta Smith (201-83, college: SE Illinois JC) chipped in 19 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals. point guard Steve Monreal (180, college: CS Monterey) produced 26 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals for the hosts. Fuerza Regia have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain first place with 32-6 record. Correcaminos at the other side keep the eighth position with 22 games lost. Fuerza Regia are looking forward to face Huracanes (#6) in Tampico in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Correcaminos will play at home against Toros in Nuevo Laredo and are hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Seventh-ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (23-14) made lots of trouble for second ranked Halcones Rojos (29-6). The visitors from Veracruz managed to secure only three-point victory 91-88. However their fans expected much easier game. International forward Noe Alonzo (200-83, college: Grand Canyon) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Luis Bethelmy contributed with 11 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Halcones Rojos' coach Eddie Casiano allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American guard Davin White (186-81, college: CS Northridge) answered with a double-double by scoring 13 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists for Halcones UV Xalapa. Halcones Rojos maintains second place with 29-6 record having 3 victories less than leader Fuerza Regia. Halcones UV Xalapa lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 14 games lost. Halcones Rojos will play against Abejas (#10) in Guanajuato in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Halcones UV Xalapa will play at home against Lechugueros in Leon and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Tampico was also quite interesting. Third ranked Toros (28-11) played at the court of 6th ranked Huracanes (24-15). Toros did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 111-93 on Tuesday. Thomas Gardner stepped up and scored 33 points (!!!) for the winners. Robert Hornsby responded with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Huracanes' coach rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Toros maintains third place with 28-11 record having three points less than leader Fuerza Regia. Loser Huracanes keep the sixth position with 15 games lost. Toros will meet Correcaminos (#8) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Huracanes will play against the league's leader Fuerza Regia in Monterrey and hope to secure a win.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Xalapa. Local Halcones UV Xalapa (23-14) outscored 10th ranked Abejas (16-23) 100-72. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Abejas. Juan Herrera nailed 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winning 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. Halcones UV Xalapa maintains seventh place with 23-14 record. Abejas at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 23 games lost. Halcones UV Xalapa's next round opponent will be Lechugueros (#11) in Leon. Abejas will play on the road against the league's second-placed Halcones Rojos and will have a slim chance for a victory.

In the last game of round 41 Barreteros were crushed by Pioneros in Cancun 95-76.

Corr.Victoria - Fuerza Regia 98-99

Eighth-ranked Correcaminos (16-22) made lots of trouble for first ranked Fuerza Regia (32-6) in Ciudad Victoria on Tuesday. The visitors from Monterrey managed to secure only one-point victory 99-98. However their fans expected much easier game. Correcaminos were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Jeremis Smith (203-86, college: Georgia Tech) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points and 13 rebounds. Guard Donta Smith (201-83, college: SE Illinois JC) chipped in 19 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals. point guard Steve Monreal (180, college: CS Monterey) produced 26 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals and point guard Myron Allen (180-79, college: Lee JC) added 20 points, 8 assists and 4 steals respectively for the hosts. Five Fuerza Regia and four Correcaminos players scored in double figures. Fuerza Regia have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain first place with 32-6 record. Correcaminos at the other side keep the eighth position with 22 games lost. Fuerza Regia are looking forward to face Huracanes (#6) in Tampico in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Correcaminos will play at home against Toros in Nuevo Laredo and are hoping to prove to their supporters that this time they can win.
Top scorers:
Fuerza Regia: J.Smith 26+13reb, D.Smith 19+7reb+4ast, A.Joseph Tyronzic 16+6reb+2ast, J.Hastings 13+4reb, A.Izaguirre 12+5reb+1ast, M.Mitchell 10+4reb+4ast
Corr.Victoria: S.Monreal 26+8reb+6ast, M.Allen 20+4reb+8ast, G.Burris 12+4reb+1ast, D.Lamont 12+3reb+1ast, R.Brown 11+3reb+1ast, A.Ferguson 9+4reb+1ast

Pioneros - Barreteros 95-76

There was no surprise in Cancun where 9th ranked Barreteros (16-23) were crushed by fifth ranked Pioneros (26-13) 95-76. The game was mostly controlled by Pioneros. Barreteros was better in third quarter 26-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was also dominated by American players. Forward John Millsap (198-82, college: UTSA) nailed 27 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and guard LeRoy Hickerson (196-82, college: Cumberlands) accounted for 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Millsap is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) came up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds and forward James Reaves (203-82, college: Niagara, agency: TSS Management) added 22 points respectively for Barreteros in the defeat. Five Pioneros and four Barreteros players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Pioneros. They moved-up to fourth place. Barreteros lost their ninth game in a row. They keep the ninth position with 23 games lost. Pioneros' next round opponent will be again Barreteros (#9) in Zacatecas which should be theoretically an easy game.
Top scorers:
Pioneros: J.Millsap 27+7reb, L.Hickerson 20+7reb+4ast, J.Sanchez 13+1reb+1ast, A.Garcia 12+5reb+1ast, C.Hernandez 11+2reb+3ast, E.Moreno 4+2reb+3ast
Barreteros: J.Reaves 22+3reb+3ast, F.Fisher 13+1reb+2ast, J.Habel 13+13reb+3ast, L.White 13+4reb+1ast, G.Stokes 7+3reb+5ast, R.Loera Almanza 4+1reb

Halc.Xalapa - Abejas 100-72

The game with biggest result difference took place in Xalapa. Local Halcones UV Xalapa (23-14) outscored 10th ranked Abejas (16-23) 100-72. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Abejas. The game was mostly controlled by Halcones UV Xalapa. Abejas was better in third quarter 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Abejas 43-29 including a 28-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. Halcones UV Xalapa players were unselfish on offense dishing 29 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Abejas' players. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. Venezuelan forward Juan Herrera (197-81) nailed 17 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and American point guard Tayron Thomas (191-84, college: Philadelphia) accounted for 16 points and 4 assists. Four Halcones UV Xalapa players scored in double figures. American forward Marcus Jackson (202-82, college: Marquette, agency: Court Side) came up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds and the other American import point guard Kameron Gray (186-82, college: Oklahoma City) added 18 points and 4 assists respectively for Abejas in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Halcones UV Xalapa maintains seventh place with 23-14 record. Abejas at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 23 games lost. Halcones UV Xalapa's next round opponent will be Lechugueros (#11) in Leon. Abejas will play on the road against the league's second-placed Halcones Rojos and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Halc.Xalapa: J.Herrera 17+7reb+3ast, T.Thomas 16+4reb+4ast, H.Hernandez 13+8reb+2ast, A.Joseph 13+1reb+2ast, O.Mendez-Valdez 12+3reb+3ast, G.Brown 11+3reb+3ast
Abejas: K.Gray 18+4reb+4ast, M.Jackson 17+13reb+2ast, L.Wade 15+2reb+2ast, V.Buelna 7+1ast, M.McHugh 5+6reb+1ast, J.Verdejo 4+1reb+1ast

Halc.Xalapa - Halc.Rojos 88-91

Seventh-ranked Halcones UV Xalapa (23-14) made lots of trouble for second ranked Halcones Rojos (29-6). The visitors from Veracruz managed to secure only three-point victory 91-88. However their fans expected much easier game. Halcones Rojos made 17-of-19 charity shots (89.5 percent) during the game. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. International forward Noe Alonzo (200-83, college: Grand Canyon) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Venezuelan power forward Luis Bethelmy (200-86) contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Halcones Rojos' coach Eddie Casiano allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American guard Davin White (186-81, college: CS Northridge) answered with a double-double by scoring 13 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists and international guard Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-86, college: W.Kentucky) added 22 points and 6 assists in the effort for Halcones UV Xalapa. Five Halcones Rojos and four Halcones UV Xalapa players scored in double figures. Halcones Rojos maintains second place with 29-6 record having 3 victories less than leader Fuerza Regia. Halcones UV Xalapa lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 14 games lost. Halcones Rojos will play against Abejas (#10) in Guanajuato in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Halcones UV Xalapa will play at home against Lechugueros in Leon and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Halc.Rojos: N.Alonzo 25+5reb+2ast, A.Solares 12+1reb, D.Cortes 11+2reb+3ast, L.Bethelmy 11+10reb+3ast, P.Stoll 10+3reb+5ast, G.Vargas 10+4reb+5ast
Halc.Xalapa: O.Mendez-Valdez 22+2reb+6ast, V.Mariscal 19+1reb+4ast, J.Herrera 19+8reb+1ast, D.White 13+7reb+10ast, H.Hernandez 9+6reb, T.Thomas 4+5reb+1ast

Huracanes - Toros 93-111

The game in Tampico was also quite interesting. Third ranked Toros (28-11) played at the court of 6th ranked Huracanes (24-15). Toros did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 111-93 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by Toros. Huracanes managed to win fourth quarter 32-29. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Toros shot 63.1 percent from the field. Toros had a 29-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard Thomas Gardner (195-85, college: Missouri) stepped up and scored 33 points (!!!) for the winners and the former international forward Jesus Lopez (205-83, college: SW Baptist) chipped in 24 points and 7 rebounds. American power forward Robert Hornsby (196-82, college: Troy) responded with 21 points and 7 rebounds and Venezuelan forward Nestor Colmenares (203-87, college: Campbellsville) scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Four Toros and five Huracanes players scored in double figures. Huracanes' coach rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Toros maintains third place with 28-11 record having three points less than leader Fuerza Regia. Loser Huracanes keep the sixth position with 15 games lost. Toros will meet Correcaminos (#8) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Huracanes will play against the league's leader Fuerza Regia in Monterrey and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Toros: T.Gardner 33+3reb+1ast, J.Lopez 24+7reb+2ast, W.Pagan 19+3reb+5ast, I.Ofoegbu 15+13reb+3ast, J.Hutchingson Mejia 7+4reb+2ast, E.Manuel Guzman 6+3reb+2ast
Huracanes: R.Hornsby 21+7reb+3ast, N.Colmenares 19+7reb, J.Edwin 17+5reb+3ast, O.Quintero 16+1reb+4ast, E.Medina 11+2reb+1ast, A.Fuqua 5+5reb

Best players of Mexican LNBP round 41 - by Eurobasket News
American Jeremis Smith (203-F-86) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Fuerza Regia and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com LNBP Player of the Week award for round 41.
The 25-year old forward had a double-double of 26 points and thirteen rebounds, while his team edged out Corr.Victoria (#8, 16-22) 99-98. It allowed Fuerza Regia to consolidate first place in the Mexican LNBP. Fuerza Regia have a solid 32-6 record. It's Smith's second year at Fuerza Regia and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Jeremis Smith averages this season 18.5ppg and 6.9rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old American forward Ike Ofoegbu (205-F-85, agency: Paris Global Sports) of Toros. Ofoegbu impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds. Of course he lead Toros to another comfortable win 111-93 over the lower-ranked Huracanes (#6, 24-15) being unquestionably team leader. Toros' 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 28-11 record is not bad at all. Ofoegbu is a newcomer at Toros and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was American John Millsap (198-F-82) of Pioneros (#4). Millsap scored 27 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was a key player of Pioneros, leading his team to a 95-76 easy win against the lower-ranked Barreteros (#9, 16-23). Pioneros needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 26 victories and 13 lost games. Millsap has a great season in Mexico. After 30 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.6ppg (5th best). He also has FGP: 54.8% and 3PT: 41.7%. Millsap attended one of camps at Eurobasket Summer League on his way to pro basketball.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Steve Monreal (180-PG) of Corr.Victoria - 26 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Davin White (186-G-81) of Halc.Xalapa - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists
6. Noe Alonzo (200-F-83) of Halc.Rojos - 25 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82) of Pioneros - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Jesus Lopez (205-F-83) of Toros - 24 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Jerome Habel (208-F-85) of Barreteros - 13 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Juan Herrera (197-F-81) of Halc.Xalapa - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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MONTENEGRO

EBL Junior All-Star: Mikovic MVP - by Darko Pekic
'T-Mobile' Hall in Donji Kokoti and KK Podgorica were the hosts of a great event last week- the match between most talented juniors in Montenegro. The players were divided in two squads: 'the reds' against 'the whites'. The reds won the game although both teams played well and impressed the fans 76:68 (18:22, 10:18, 22:12, 26:16). The MVP of the game was KK Mornar's player Milija Mikovic (205-C-94) who scored 19 points and grabbed 15 reboundes for the winners. He was assisted by Nenad Vukovic (187-G-94) ( 19 points, 4 assists) and his teammate in Mornar- Dusan Perovic (202-F/C-94) (18). For the whites, Masan Vrbica (PG-94) had an outstanding perfomance (17 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists) but it was not good enough to get a win. However, everybody were satisfied after the conclusion of the event and it is another proof that events like this one are very attractive for the fans and scouts.

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NBA

Indiana Pacers defeat theToronto Raptors 90-85 - by Daniel Gibson
TORONTO---The Toronto Raptors got hot late during a furious rally but the Indiana Pacers hit clutch shots to hold them off for the win, 90-83.

Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) led all scorers with 21 and he hit two crucial three-pointers in the last two minutes of the game. All five starters scored in double-figures and two recorded double-doubles. Roy Hibbert (7'2''-C-86, college: Georgetown) had 12 points and 10 rebounds and Darren Collison (6'0''-PG-87, college: UCLA) had 10 points and 12 assists. The win puts the Pacers at 2-0 for the first time since 2007.

The Toronto Raptors were led by Andrea Bargnani's (6'10''-F/C-85) 21 points and Demar DeRozan's (6'7''-F/G-89, college: USC) 22. DeRozan warmed up in the second half and was the catalyst for getting the team back in the game.

Toronto had trailed by double figures for the majority of the game but were able to cut it to five with just over two minutes left when Collison found Granger for a huge three-pointer.

Collison was scrambling for the ball on the floor and spotted Granger for the shot while being hit. Derozan answered back with a big three of his own followed by a free-throw from Bargnani to make it 83-81.

It looked like the Toronto Raptors were poised to take the game over then Granger buried another dagger three to make it 86-81. Jose Manuel Calderon (6'3''-PG-81) answered back for Toronto with a layup before David West knocked down a 14-footer to make it 88-83. Collison iced the game at the free-throw line to secure the Pacers second win of the season.

Jeremy Lin claimed off waivers by NY Knicks - by Eurobasket News
The Knicks offense didn't get a huge boost Tuesday, but their collective GPA sure did.

The Knicks claimed guard Jeremy Lin (6'3''-PG-89, college: Harvard) off waivers from the Houston Rockets Tuesday as insurance for their paper-thin backcourt. Lin, a Bay Area native and Harvard graduate, will join the Knicks in Oakland when they meet Mark Jackson's Golden State Warriors in the first game of a three-game West Coast road trip beginning Wednesday night.

'Yeah we picked up Jeremy Lin off of waivers (as) a backup point (guard) in case,' Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni said. 'We've always liked him as a player so we'll see where we go with it.'

The Knicks are painfully thin at the point after Iman Shumpert injured his knee in the Knicks' Christmas Day win over the Celtics. The recently-signed Baron Davis is also out as he recovers from a back injury.

The 6-3 Lin played in 29 games with the Warriors last season and averaged 2.6 points, 1.4 assists and 1.2 rebounds in becoming the first American-born player of Chinese descent to play in the NBA.

Before Lin the last Asian-American to play in the NBA was University of Utah guard Wataru Misaka who played with the Knicks during the 1947-48 season. Misaka played in three games that season, scoring seven points on 3-of-13 shooting from the field and 1-for-3 from the free-throw line.

Lin is also the 42nd Ivy League player to appear in an NBA game and the first since Chris Dudley and Matt Maloney played in the 2002-03 season.

Asked what he liked most about Lin, D'Antoni said, 'He went to Harvard so he might be the smartest guy we have. But he's very quick, he defends pretty well and he can really get in the lane and distribute the basketball. We haven't seen him for a couple of years but when we worked him out we liked him.'

Lin will arrive as the Knicks third point guard behind Toney Douglas and Mike Bibby, but D'Antoni said he could find some playing time in short order.

'If somebody wakes up with a cold he's playing a lot,' D'Antoni said. 'If not, then we'll see.'

Lin graduated Harvard with a degree in economics and left the Crimson as the all-time leader in games played (115) while finishing fifth in points (1,483), fifth in assists (404) and second in steals (225).

Courtesy of www.nydailynews.com

Celts' Green 'relieved' after heart ailment found - by Eurobasket News
Speaking to reporters for the first time since the heart ailment that will sideline him for the 2011-12 season was disclosed, Boston Celtics forward Jeff Green (6'9''-F-86, college: Georgetown) called the discovery a 'blessing' and said he is 'relieved' because he expects to resume his basketball career next season.

'I'm very relieved,' Green said, 'because I can play basketball again. It's a blessing it was found because you never know what could have happened.'

After Green agreed to a one-year, $9 million contract with the Celtics at the start of the offseason, a routine physical discovered an aortic aneurysm that Green will have surgically repaired next month at the Cleveland Clinic.

The condition ended his season and voided his contract, but Green has remained with the team, attending practices last week and traveling to New York and Miami as part of the season-opening road trip.

'It's like therapy, man -- being around the team. It really helps me relax and takes my mind off it because I don't want to be sitting around the house thinking about the whole thing,' he said. 'You can go crazy doing that. Just being around the team, it really helps.'

Green said he has already reached out to Etan Thomas, who underwent open-heart surgery in October 2007 to repair a leaking aortic valve and returned to the court a little more than a year later. Green said he also plans to get in contact with Ronny Turiaf, who underwent surgery in July 2005 for an enlarged aortic root and debuted on an NBA court in February 2006, little more than six months later. Green said their input will aid him in knowing what lies ahead as he preps for surgery and rehab.

The team stressed to him to take care of his health.

'Take your time, as far as recuperating and at the hospital,' Green said of the team's message. 'And then come back to Boston and start getting back to playing the game.'

The Celtics are expected to retain their rights to Green whenever he's able to resume playing and coach Doc Rivers stressed earlier this week that Green remains part of the Celtics' family.

'He's part of the team,' said Rivers. 'Jeff's hopefully going to get a (championship) ring. He'll be there just like everybody else.

'Jeff doesn't have to be here, but he wants to be here and we want him here. He's part of our culture, he's part of our family. We want to keep him in our family.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Bucks F Gooden suspended 1 game for flagrant foul - by Eurobasket News
Milwaukee Bucks forward Drew Gooden (6'10''-F-81, college: Kansas) was suspended without pay for the team's first home game Tuesday night for his flagrant foul in the season opener.

Gooden was ejected late in the third quarter Monday for clocking Gerald Henderson in the head with his arm as the Bobcats guard attempted to make a driving layup in Charlotte's 96-95 win.

'Once they rule that, it's going to be looked at very carefully in the league office,' Bucks coach Scott Skiles said. 'Those are tough calls, and the league makes them.'

Gooden's suspension leaves the Bucks particularly short-handed for their home opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Carlos Delfino and Tobias Harris will not play Tuesday night because of injuries.

Mbah a Moute has tendinitis in his right knee, Delfino has a sprained right wrist and Harris, a rookie, has been out with dehydration.

Gooden scored four points off the bench before his ejection.

The 10th-year veteran averaged 11.3 points and 6.8 rebounds for the Bucks last season.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Dirk Nowitzki thinks Mavs look old and slow - by Eurobasket News
The question isnt what ails the defending champion Dallas Mavericks, but can they fix it in time to make another run at the playoffs in this 66-game season?

Their offense showed signs of life Monday, then grew anemic after the first quarter, and the defense was uneven throughout the 115-93 loss to the Denver Nuggets.

Denver guard Ty Lawson led all scorers with 27 points. There are a bunch of good players on this team and I knew that we were going to come out strong, Lawson said.

It was the second blowout loss in a row at home for the Mavericks, who fell 105-94 to the Miami Heat on Sunday. In that game, Dallas trailed by as many as 35 points.

'We look old, slow and out of shape', Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) said. 'I still think this team has a lot of potential. We just need to work. We probably needed extra weeks of training camp. But we dont have it so the young teams, the athletic teams, look better right now than we do.'

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Chris Bosh still trying to find his place in new Heat offense - by Eurobasket News
Much was made here and elsewhere of the muscle that Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) added this offseason, especially visible in his upper arms.

And yet, in the second preseason and regular season opener, Bosh hasnt managed to do much in the low post.

Its too early to make too much of this, especially since foul trouble limited Boshs minutes, and hurt his rhythm, in Dallas. But it bears watching. With Erik Spoelstra tailoring much of the offense to the versatile talents of LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, and encouraging them not only to push the pace but also to sometimes set up camp down low, Bosh is the guy who could get left behind.

After Tuesday's shootaround, Bosh acknowledged that it remained a feeling out process.

With this offense, Im going to be trailing a lot, so it takes some getting used to, said Bosh, who was 2-of-9 against the Mavericks. Sometimes, its a race to the post, and those guys are fast. Nine times out of 10, Im not going to beat them there. Its just getting a feeling for where I can post up in the offense, and kind of dictating where the ball goes sometimes. And setting screens and rolling and sealing. And when I can, race down there to that block and get going.

Tuesday, Spoelstra said he realized that Bosh had set a goal of double-digit rebounds per game, but cautioned against anyone expecting that on a team with so much gang rebounding from the other forwards and guards. Bosh called them all fantastic rebounders.

You have to get your hands on them when you can, Bosh said. Tonight, I cant get in foul trouble in order to get that goal. And I am going to have to get in some rhythm because, if I dont, my teammates will beat me to the punch.

Heres a suggestion for Spoelstra, which hes likely already considered:

He might want to create some Bosh time in every contest, as he did at times last season. Thats a segment of the game during which both James and Wade are on the bench, and the Heat can play through him, going inside-out with their shooters. Once Mike Miller and Shane Battier are entirely healthy, Spoelstra should have this option, since he can put both of them on the floor with Udonis Haslem and one of the point guards, and run out a decent unit that can rest the two wing stars while getting Bosh fully engaged in the game.

Courtesy of http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com

Andray Blatche complained about his offensive role and then told those criticizing him to 'shut up' - by Eurobasket News
Andray Blatche (6'11''-F/C-86) entered game one of the NBA season as the Washington Wizards team captain.

He exited the night as the Wizards team headache.

Following 90-84 loss to the New Jersey Nets which included a meltdown after holding a 21-point lead Blatche voiced his displeasure for the teams game plan on Twitter.

'I may have had a bad game but that's cause I need the ball in the post not taking jump shots all game', Blatche tweeted. The game was played on Monday.

Courtesy of http://articles.businessinsider.com

Bobcats' Augustin expected to play vs Heat - by Eurobasket News
If the Bobcats are going to take a step forward this season they're going to need some big plays and strong shooting from point guard D.J. Augustin (5'11''-PG-87, college: Texas).

So far, so good.

Augustin scored a team-high 19 points in the Bobcats' 96-95 win over the Bucks in Monday night's season opener, including a driving layup that put his team ahead for good with 36.5 seconds left.

It was a quality win for the young and rebuilding Bobcats.

But the NBA can be a grind, even in a 66-game season, and Augustin and his teammates know they'll face a much stiffer test when LeBron James and the Miami Heat come to town on Wednesday night.

'I watched them play on Christmas and they look like they have a chip on their shoulder,' Augustin said. 'We know they have a great team, so we have to come in and play hard like we did (against the Bucks).'

Added coach Paul Silas of the Heat: 'They're just so talented it's unbelievable.'

Silas said he expects to have Augustin available for the game.

Augustin sprained his left ankle in the final minute of Monday night's game while chasing after a loose ball near midcourt. He's had problems with the ankle before. He didn't practice Tuesday but Silas said, 'he thinks he might be able to make it (Wednesday) night.'

But the Bobcats have to be careful.

Even with backup Kemba Walker looking like the real deal, the Bobcats need Augustin for the long run.

After a rough start as a rookie, Augustin's turnaround as a player coincided with the arrival Silas last December.

Under former coach Larry Brown, Augustin was timid and often afraid to shoot. Then Silas arrived.

'Playing for coach Brown, I was looking over my shoulder because I didn't want to make a mistake,' Augustin said. 'He's still a great coach and taught me a lot of fundamentals. But with coach Silas, he gives you that chance to be free and make plays.'

That was never more evident than in a game last season against Minnesota.

Augustin was having a horrible night shooting from the field, and Silas noticed he was starting to pass up open shots.

So Silas called a timeout.

When Augustin got the sideline, Silas looked him in the eyes and gave the 6-foot point guard a lesson he's never forgotten.

'I brought him over to the bench and I said, 'Son, if you ever pass up another shot I'm going to take you out of the game and I'm not going to play you at all,'' Silas said. 'I told him, 'Listen, every time you get the ball, I want you to shoot it.''

Augustin did just that, making his next couple of shots.

He's not stopped shooting since.

'The fact that I had some confidence in him just seemed to open up a whole new world for him,' Silas said.

Augustin's average went from 12.6 points to 14.4 at the end of the season.

'Paul gave me a lot of confidence,' Augustin said. 'Paul is such a positive coach, such a positive person that he makes you believe in yourself. When you walk out on the court, you feel like every shot is going in. You're able to learn from your mistakes. You're not going to be perfect and he knows that.'

Augustin thinks there's something about Silas' laid-back demeanor that meshes with his personality.

'I think it is just how he talks and speaks to you,' Augustin said. 'He shows everybody that same respect. He's so positive. If you miss a shot, he'll tell you, 'Hey, it's OK, keep shooting.' That makes you want to keep shooting.'

That includes in big games against the Heat.

Silas said this game will serve as a measuring stick for the Bobcats and just how far they've come and how far they have to go.

'I'd like to see how we do against a team like that,' Silas said. 'Can we stay competitive and not get blown away? I think if we do that we will have a chance to really improve. But it's tough to keep a team like that down.'

Courtesy of www.nj.com

Fesenko to sign with Warriors - by Eurobasket News
Fifth-year center Kyrylo Fesenko (7'0''-C-86) has agreed to a one-year, $1.07 million deal with Golden State, league sources told SI.com.

The Warriors signed veteran big man Kwame Brown to a one-year, $7 million deal recently but are clearly concerned about their frontcourt in the oversized Western Conference. Veteran center Andris Biedrins has been subpar in recent years and Brown was expected to push for the starting center role, but he entered the season out of shape and was off to a slow start before playing well in Monday night's win over Chicago.

Fesenko -- a 7-foot, 280-pound center who spent his first four seasons in Utah -- was reportedly being pursued by Dallas, Miami and Toronto. He has never averaged more than eight minutes in a season but was key for the Jazz during the 2010 playoffs in which they were forced to play without center Mehmet Okur. Fesenko was a second-round pick by Philadelphia in 2007.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Tuesday's games review - by Eurobasket News
Portland TB - Sacramento K. 101-79
Gerald Wallace (6'7''-F-82, college: Alabama) had 25 points, eight rebounds and five assists, leading the Portland Trail Blazers to a 101-79 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night. LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Texas) had 24 points and eight rebounds for the Blazers (2-0). Nicolas Batum added 15 points and five rebounds off the bench. DeMarcus Cousins led the way for Sacramento (1-1) with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Marcus Thornton added 14 points and Jason Thompson had 11. The Kings struggled from the field in the second half and committed 23 fouls and 20 turnovers for the game. Both teams were playing after opening their seasons on Monday. The Kings beat the Los Angeles Lakers 100-91 behind Thornton's 27 points. Portland managed a 107-103 win over Philadelphia. Sacramento's inexperience showed as Portland pulled away in the second half. The Kings made just 9 of 38 shots after halftime. The Blazers took a 76-65 lead on the first basket of the fourth. Batum finished a fast-break with a layup to make it 88-73 with 4:38 remaining. The Kings had just 14 points in the final quarter. The Kings have the youngest opening day roster in the NBA with an average age of 24.347 years. Ten of the Kings have played two seasons or less in the NBA. The Kings were in control early, getting baskets from seven of eight players in the opening quarter and leading by as many as 10 in the second. However, the Blazers erased the gap with a 16-6 run and went into halftime tied at 46. *Courtesy of www.kolotv.com

LA Lakers - Utah Jazz 96-71
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) scored 26 points, Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) added 22 points and nine rebounds, and the Los Angeles Lakers avoided just the fourth 0-3 start in franchise history with a 96-71 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night. Metta World Peace scored 14 points for the Lakers, who had much more life than the Jazz despite playing their third game in three nights to open the season. Los Angeles ran away with a dominant third quarter, making a 27-8 surge out of halftime in the club's first win for new coach Mike Brown. Paul Millsap had 18 points and 10 rebounds for Utah, the last NBA team to open its regular season. Coach Tyrone Corbin scowled throughout the lowest-scoring performance in an opener in franchise history. In the Jazz's first season opener without coach Jerry Sloan running their bench since 1988, Utah made just 20 shots in the first three quarters and shot 20 fewer free throws than the Lakers. Al Jefferson went 2 for 16, C.J. Miles was 1 for 8, and rookie Enes Kanter was 1 for 7 in his NBA debut. At least Utah's 25-point loss was one point better than the biggest blowout loss in Utah opener history. Utah missed 17 of its first 19 shots in the second quarter while the Lakers made a 13-0 run capped by a one-handed dunk by World Peace, the normally ground-bound leader of Los Angeles' second unit. Los Angeles blew out the Jazz after halftime, jumping to a 68-39 lead with a 12-2 run. With a Christmas loss to the Chicago Bulls and another defeat in Sacramento one night later, the Lakers got off to their first 0-2 start since the 2002-03 season. But Los Angeles has started 0-3 just three times in franchise history - just once in the last 50 years (1978-79). The Lakers got their only back-to-back-to-back series of games out of the way immediately, although they still won't even get consecutive days off until mid-January. When the New York Knicks visit Staples Center on Thursday night, Los Angeles still will be without starting center Andrew Bynum, who will finish his four-game suspension for misbehavior in last spring's playoffs. The Lakers already are hurting this season, with Bryant nursing a torn ligament in his right wrist and Gasol wearing extra support for his sprained right shoulder. Veteran Matt Barnes, who's dealing with bursitis in his left hip, didn't play for the second time in three games despite a loud fan chant for him in the fourth quarter. Millsap came off the Utah bench, playing through tendinitis in his right quadriceps that nearly kept him out of uniform. Jazz newcomer Josh Howard had 10 points in 24 minutes. Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

New Jersey N. - Atlanta H. 70-106
The Nets have won more than 50 games only once during their tenure in New Jersey. A 106-70 loss in their final home opener before their move to Brooklyn reminded fans why. A sellout crowd that brought initial electricity to the Prudential Center was quickly quieted by a dominant Atlanta Hawks team playing its first official game since being eliminated in the Eastern Conference semifinals by the Chicago Bulls in May. It did not matter that the Hawks hit traffic and arrived late to the arena; they romped from start to finish. Overwhelmingly positive vibes for Kris Humphries, who was under vocal attack from opposing fans in New York and Washington following the end of his brief marriage to the reality TV star Kim Kardashian, turned negative against the Nets when Jeff Teague buried a 3-pointer to put the Hawks up by 57-30 early in the third quarter. Asked about the energy in the building, Nets Coach Avery Johnson said: 'Oh, man. That's why I feel bad. This was a great crowd. I mean, great crowd. Into the game, holiday season. And we come out with a poor performance. Hopefully they'll give us another chance.' Johnson added, 'I think if our players were in the stands, they probably would have booed us.' Deron Williams (10 points, 1 assist) struggled both shooting the ball and helping his teammates. 'He gets trapped and then we get the ball and hold it,' Johnson said. 'The ball should be moving like a hot potato, but it kind of has that Stickum on it.' Aside from scoring spurts by the rookie MarShon Brooks (17 points), the Nets were overmatched. For the second straight night, the Nets struggled mightily out of the gate and fell behind, 8-0. In what could serve as an early study of the effect of back-to-back games during the lockout-shortened season, they trailed, 28-11, after one quarter. 'We're learning on the fly,' Williams said. 'We still don't have a concept of the offense. We're still making a lot of mistakes on defense, and our flaws are going to show up against teams that have been together and they have been together for years now.' Explaining the Nets' ability to mount a comeback on Monday but not on Tuesday, Williams said, 'That was the Wizards, this is the Hawks, that's pretty much it.' The Hawks looked physically imposing and fresh in their season opener. Six players finished in double figures. Vladimir Radmanovic (6'10''-F-80) led the way with 17 points. Marvin Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) made a case that a 3-pointer early in the first quarter can be a backbreaker. Even though he only finished with 5 points, Josh Smith was loose and engaged, his athleticism a controlled weapon. An ageless Tracy McGrady attacked the rim. And Teague put the Hawks up by 52-30 at halftime by calmly hitting a long, stepback 3-pointer. 'Defensively we were active,' Smith said. 'Everyone was active. Even when the bench came in, they were active.' Humphries got a loud ovation from the crowd during player introductions, perhaps matched only by the ovation given to Deron Williams, and a 'We love Humphries!' chant broke out after he scored his first points of the night. Humphries fielded questions before the game on the strange attention he has been receiving. Mostly joking, he suggested that the home fans might boo him too. 'Maybe if that's what they think motivates me, they'll do it,' he said. Humphries's treatment is the end product of the bizarre spectacles that took place at the Prudential Center last season, when Kardashian, then his girlfriend, often made her presence felt courtside. The Nets last season also capitalized on the reality TV boom by hosting the stars of 'Jersey Shore.' On one bizarrely memorable evening last January, Nicole Polizzi, known as Snooki, the pint-size cultural touchstone of 'Jersey Shore,' sat with Kardashian. But with the way the Hawks controlled the game, the Humphries appreciation party was never more than an appetizer. *Courtesy of www.nytimes.com

Miami Heat - Boston C. 115-107
The Miami Heat beat Boston 115-107 this afternoon (NZT) to maintain their impressive start to the National Basketball Association season and hand the Celtics their second consecutive loss. The Heat dominated for much of the game and led by 15 points at half-time, but the Celtics created some tension late in the fourth quarter and reduced the deficit to three at one point. Miami are 2-0 on the new season after also winning their opener at defending champions Dallas on Christmas Day (Boxing Day NZT). Boston sorely missed the presence of the injured Paul Pierce, who would have guarded LeBron James (6'8''-F-84). Miami, who beat Boston 4-1 in last season's Eastern Conference semi-finals, marched to a 69-54 lead at the break with James, who finished with 26 points, in sharp form. The most impressive performance of the night though belonged to Miami rookie Norris Cole (6'2''-PG-88, college: Cleveland St.), who on his home debut shot 20 points and made four assists and was particularly incisive in the nervy finale. Ray Allen (6'5''-SG-75, college: Connecticut) top scored for the Celtics with 28 points, including six three-pointers. *Courtesy of http://tvnz.co.nz

Milwaukee B. - Minnesota T. 98-95
It's far too early to bestow star status on Milwaukee Bucks rookie Jon Leuer. He's not off to a bad start, though. The second-round pick out of Wisconsin converted a three-point play with 1:17 left, helping the Bucks hold off the Minnesota Timberwolves for a 98-95 victory in their home opener Tuesday night. Leuer was cheered loudly in pregame introductions, and it only got better from there. 'That's the Badger love, I guess, a little bit,' Leuer said. 'They were great fans for me my four years at Wisconsin, so I'm glad I get to keep playing for them.' Leuer finished the game with 14 points on 5 for 7 shooting and had eight rebounds. Bucks center Andrew Bogut joked that he might start losing some minutes. 'Jon was great,' Bucks coach Scott Skiles said. 'I probably should have played him more last night. He's earned his minutes out there.' Brandon Jennings (6'0''-PG-89) scored 24 points and Stephen Jackson (6'8''-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC) added 16 for the Bucks, who were playing without forward Drew Gooden because of a suspension and several other key players because of injuries. Kevin Love had 31 points and 20 rebounds, repeatedly finding his way to the free throw line for the Timberwolves. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. New York K.		1-0
2. Toronto R.		1-0
3. New Jersey N.		1-1
4. Philadelph.76		0-1
5. Boston C.		0-2
Central Div.
1. Indiana P.		1-0
2. Chicago B.		1-1
3. Milwaukee B.		1-1
4. Cleveland C.		0-1
5. Detroit P.		0-1
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		2-0
2. Atlanta H.		1-0
3. Charlotte B.		1-0
4. Orlando M.		1-1
5. Washington W.		0-1
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		2-0
2. Portland TB		2-0
3. Denver N.		1-0
4. Utah Jazz		0-1
5. Minnesota T.		0-2
Pacific Div.
1. LA Clippers		1-0
2. Golde State W.		1-1
3. Sacramento K.		1-1
4. LA Lakers		1-2
5. Phoenix Suns		0-1
Southwest Div.
1. N.Orleans H.		1-0
2. San Antonio S.		1-0
3. Houston R.		0-1
4. Memphis G.		0-1
5. Dallas M.		0-2

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Carmelo ANTHONY
  New Y.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 37

1. Anthony, New Y.	37.0
2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	31.5
3. James, Miami Heat	31.5
4. Bryant, LA Lakers	27.7
5. Lawson, Denver N.	27.0
6. Rondo, Boston C.	26.5
7. Love, Minnesota T.	26.5
8. Wade, Miami Heat	25.0
9. Williams, Philadel.	25.0
10. Aldridge, Portlan.	24.5

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 16

1. Love, Minnesota T.	16.0
2. Hawes, Philadelph..	14.0
3. Hibbert, Indiana P.	14.0
4. Haslem, Miami Heat	13.0
5. Johnson, Toronto	13.0
6. Hansbrough, India.	13.0
7. West, Indiana P.	12.0
8. Diaw, Charlotte B.	11.0
9. Camby, Portland TB	11.0
10. Pachulia, Atlanta	11.0

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 12.5

1. Rondo, Boston C.	12.5
2. Lowry, Houston R.	12.0
3. Nash, Phoenix Suns	12.0
4. Calderon, Toron.	11.0
5. Diaw, Charlotte B.	9.0
6. Paul, LA Clippers	9.0
7. Hawes, Philadelph..	9.0
8. Augustin, Charlott.	8.0
9. Ellis, Golde S.	7.5
10. Felton, Portland	7.0

Steals Per Game

Mario CHALMERS
  Miami Heat
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Chalmers, Miami He.	4.5
2. Radmanovic, Atlan.	4.0
3. Parker, San A.	4.0
4. Curry, Golde S.	4.0
5. Lawson, Denver N.	3.0
6. Ginobili, San A.	3.0
7. Gee, Cleveland C.	3.0
8. Douglas, New Y.	3.0
9. Wall, Washington W.	3.0
10. Fernandez, Denver	3.0

Blocks Per Game

DeAndre JORDAN
  LA Clippers
  (213-C-88)
  Avg: 8

1. Jordan, LA Clippers	8.0
2. Chandler, New Y.	6.0
3. Iguodala, Philadel.	4.0
4. Johnson, Toronto	3.0
5. Wallace, Detroit P.	3.0
6. McGee, Washingt.	3.0
7. Johnson, Toronto	3.0
8. Hibbert, Indiana P.	3.0
9. Dalembert, Houst.	3.0
10. Barnes, LA Lakers	3.0

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

NBLCANADA

NBLC Standings

NBL Canada Standings

1. Quebec K.		13-6
2. London L.		12-4
3. Halifax R.		10-4
4. St.John M.R.		8-8
5. Summerside S.		6-10
6. Oshawa P.		6-13
7. Moncton M.		2-12

NCAA1

Top 25 - Men

TOP25 Standings

1. Syracuse		0-0 (12-0)
2. Ohio St.		0-0 (12-1)
3. Kentucky		0-0 (11-1)
4. Louisville		0-0 (11-2)
5. N.Carolina		0-0 (10-0)
6. Baylor		0-0 (11-0)
7. Duke		0-0 (9-0)
8. Missouri		0-0 (12-0)
9. Connecticut		0-0 (10-1)
10. Florida		0-0 (9-2)
11. Wisconsin		1-0 (12-2)
12. Georgetown		0-0 (12-0)
13. Indiana		0-0 (12-0)
14. Marquette		0-0 (10-1)
15. Mississippi St.		0-0 (12-1)
16. Michigan St.		0-0 (12-2)
17. Kansas		0-0 (8-3)
18. Michigan		0-0 (11-2)
19. UNLV		0-0 (13-2)
20. Murray St.		1-0 (13-0)
21. Creighton		0-0 (10-1)
22. Pittsburgh		0-1 (11-3)
23. Virginia		0-0 (10-1)
24. Harvard		0-0 (9-1)
25. San Diego St.		0-0 (11-2)

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Will BARTON
  Memphis
  (198-G-)
  Avg: 19.9

1. Barton, Memphis	19.9
2. Jordan, Cent.Flo.	17.1
3. Nyakundi, SMU	16.7
4. Kane, Marshall	16.5
5. Clanton, Cent.Flor.	16.4
6. Simmons, Houston	16.0
7. Paul, E.Carolina	15.5
8. Clarkson, Tulsa	15.3
9. Pitts, Marshall	14.8
10. Harris, Houston	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Arsalan KAZEMI
  Rice
  (200-F-90)
  Avg: 12.3

1. Kazemi, Rice	12.3
2. Moore, UAB	10.5
3. Tinnon, Marshall	10.4
4. Davis, Tulane	9.8
5. Clanton, Cent.Flor.	9.4
6. Barton, Memphis	8.8
7. Thomas, Houston	8.0
8. Soko, UAB	7.2
9. Bolden, S.Mississi.	6.8
10. Maduka, Tulsa	6.4

Assists Per Game

Miguel PAUL
  E.Carolina
  (190-G-)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Paul, E.Carolina	5.7
2. Pitts, Marshall	5.3
3. Streeter, UTEP	4.7
4. Crawford, Memphis	4.1
5. Kane, Marshall	3.7
6. Watson, S.Mississi.	3.7
7. Samarrippas, SMU	3.5
8. Jackson, Rice	3.5
9. Johnson, S.Missis.	3.5
10. Young, Houston	3.4

Steals Per Game

Miguel PAUL
  E.Carolina
  (190-G-)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Paul, E.Carolina	2.2
2. Kazemi, Rice	2.1
3. Kane, Marshall	1.9
4. Callahan, Tulane	1.7
5. Crawford, Memphis	1.6
6. Clanton, Cent.Flor.	1.5
7. Kemp, E.Carolina	1.5
8. Pelham, S.Mississi.	1.5
9. Barton, Memphis	1.5
10. Pena, Marshall	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Cameron MOORE
  UAB
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 4

1. Moore, UAB	4.0
2. Thomas, Houston	2.4
3. Maduka, Tulsa	1.7
4. Clanton, Cent.Flor.	1.7
5. Harris, Houston	1.6
6. Bolden, S.Mississi.	1.6
7. Oraby, Rice	1.5
8. Timmons, Tulane	1.5
9. Kazemi, Rice	1.4
10. Morrow, E.Carolina	1.4

Nebraska loses B10 opener 64-40 to No. 11 Badgers - by Eurobasket News
Wisconsin schooled Nebraska in the Cornhuskers' inaugural Big Ten game.

Ryan Evans (6'6''-G/F) scored a career-high 22 points and the No. 11 Badgers used big runs in the first and second halves to win 64-40 Tuesday night.

'That's a heck of a lesson to take,' Sadler said. 'They've got a good basketball team and they do it the right way. They don't get in a hurry. Everybody wants to talk about how fast, slow, whatever you play. The fact of the matter is they're efficient.'

Sadler said the Huskers seemed to forget what league they are in and reverted to the way they played in the up-tempo Big 12.

He said his players didn't use enough of the shot clock.

'The number of shots we took with 15 or more seconds on the shot clock, if we're going to continue to do that, we're going to continue to get our brains beat out because it's not happening,' Sadler said.

'No disrespect, but this league's not going to let you do that. Some of the teams maybe we played in the past, you knew you were going to get enough possessions. You ain't getting possessions in this league, that's one thing I know. You better have some efficiency.'

The Huskers shot 31 percent from the field and got to the free-throw line only nine times, making seven.

'We made some shots early, and so I guess we thought we were going to outscore some people,' Sadler said. 'You better have more shots under 10 seconds than you do over 10 seconds if you're going to win in this league.'

The Huskers (8-4, 0-1) had scored the game's first seven points, but Evans' swirling 3-pointer tied it 10-all -- and the Badgers (12-2, 1-0) were off on a 19-2 run.

Toney McCray (6'6''-G-89) 's steal and layup just before the buzzer pulled the Huskers within 33-26 at the half, and it was a five-point game after he made a couple of free throws early in the second half.

Then the Badgers broke it open again, holding Nebraska to two field goals over 11 minutes with Jordan Taylor, Evans and Josh Gasser combining for three 3s in a 27-5 run.

'I don't think our defense is the problem,' Sadler said. 'Offensively is the problem. You're not going to beat anybody scoring 44 points or 40 points. You ain't going to beat anybody. We've got to find a way to score some points. We held them to 64 points. Our issues are scoring baskets. It ain't going to be stopping people.'

McCray led the Huskers with 16 points and nine rebounds. But like almost everyone else that plays Wisconsin, points were at a premium.

Wisconsin extended its streak of holding opponents to 65 points or less to 18 games. The nation's top defensive team, Wisconsin has held 12 of 14 opponents to season lows in points.

Nebraska's previous low was 51 against Florida Gulf Coast.

Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan said other than the first 3 minutes of the first and second halves, it was the Badgers' best defensive performance of the season. Nebraska's 14 second-half points were its fewest in a half since scoring 11 in the first 20 minutes against Creighton in December 2006.

The season-high crowd of 10,812 at the Devaney Sports Center began filing out with 5 minutes left and the Badgers leading by 23 points.

Nebraska needed, and got, more scoring production from McCray because of injuries that kept two of their top four scorers on the bench.

Center Jorge Brian Diaz sat out with sore feet and guard Dylan Talley missed the game with a thigh bruise. The Huskers also were without 6-11, 310-pound Andre Almeida, who has been limited because of nagging knee problems.

Guard Corey Hilliard returned to action for the first time in five weeks after a sports hernia, and guard Caleb Walker played even though he badly bruised his back last week.

In a pregame ceremony celebrating the first Big Ten game, former Nebraska players were introduced to the crowd and then formed a line between the locker room and arena, welcoming the current Huskers to the court with handshakes and high-fives before tipoff.

Nebraska also played Wisconsin in its Big Ten football opener, losing 48-17 in Madison.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

Georgia controls overtime, beats Winthrop 92-86 - by Eurobasket News
Gerald Robinson (6'1''-G-89) scored 22 points and fellow guard Dustin Ware (5'11''-G-90) 20, and they hit free throws and field goals at clutch times to lead Georgia over Winthrop 92-86 in overtime Tuesday night.

Winthrop (4-9), which beat Georgia 80-60 in 2003, the last time the teams met, got 33 points from Andre Jones (6'2''-G), who became the school's 19th 1,000-point scorer.

The Bulldogs (8-5) trailed for all but the last 2.4 seconds of the final 2 minutes of regulation, but Robinson and Ware combined for all 14 of Georgia's points in the last 41 seconds. At the end, Ware hit a 3-pointer with 9.6 seconds to go and Robinson went coast-to-coast for a layup to tie the game 76-76 and force overtime.

In overtime, Ware hit another 3-pointer early and Georgia built an 86-78 lead after making 5 of 6 free throws and getting a stuff tip from Donte Williams with 2:34 to go. The Eagles never got closer than four points, but the game wasn't decided until Ware and Robinson hit four free throws in the final 22 seconds

Georgia's freshman starters Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Nemanja Djurisic scored 18 and 17 points, respectively.

Winthrop scored the first seven points of the game, including five by Jones, which was enough to give him 1,000 for his career.

The Eagles still led by seven points, 13-6 with 15:11 to go in the first half, when center George Valentine tipped in a missed shot.

The Bulldogs got hot from 3-point range, hitting four during a 13-6 run to tie the score for the first time at 19-19 with 10:37 to play on Caldwell-Pope's 3-pointer.

Georgia's first lead of the half came at the 9:20 mark on a layup by Vince Williams, making it 21-19.

The teams traded the lead seven times before the Bulldogs got late layups in transition from Robinson and Ware to take a 34-30 halftime lead.

Georgia ran out to a 48-35 lead 5 minutes into the second half, but Winthrop's Derrick Henry, who scored 17 points, hit three 3-pointers, and the Eagles tied the game at 48 with 10:35 to play on a spin move by Larry Brown.

A dunk and a 3-pointer by Caldwell-Pope sparked Georgia to a 59-51 lead with 6:57 to go, but the Eagles trimmed the lead to 59-58 when Jones hit three free throws with 5:08 remaining.

Jones hit back-to-back 3-pointers to put Winthrop up 64-62 with 2:29 to play. When Winthrop called a timeout with 1:51 left, Jones appeared to be cramping. But he came back out and hit a long 2-pointer to put Winthrop up 66-62 with 1:35 to go.

The Bulldogs put the game on the free-throw line, and Winthrop hit 10 of 12 down the stretch. But the two misses were just enough for Robinson and Ware to force overtime.

Djurisic started for the first time in place of Georgia's leading rebounder, Marcus Thornton, who underwent knee surgery Tuesday after an injury early in the Furman game Friday night. His return date is uncertain.

Djurisic got nine rebounds for Georgia.

Courtesy of www.govolsxtra.com

Alex Dragicevich scores 22 points to lead Notre Dame over No. 22 Pittsburgh 72-59 in Big East opener - by Eurobasket News
Clinging to a one-point lead at halftime, No. 22 Pittsburgh needed to tighten up its defense against Notre Dame.

Nothing seemed to work against the Irish.

Notre Dame shot 72 percent in the second half and ran away for a 72-59 victory over the Panthers on Tuesday night.

They were just knocking down shots, playing harder than us and wanted it harder, Pittsburgh forward Nasir Robinson (6'5''-F-89) said.

Pittsburgh lost its second-straight for Pittsburgh. It lost at home to Wagner on Dec. 23. In both games, Pittsburgh (11-3, 0-1 Big East) failed to score 50 points.

Pittsburgh coach Jamie Dixon pointed to an inability to make open shots as the downfall of the Panthers.

We havent shot it well, Dixon said. This game I thought we had good looks.

The Panthers shot 1 for 14 from behind the 3-point line.

Travon Woodall (5'11''-G-89) returned to the lineup for Pittsburgh, but did not score in his 18 minutes. After missing the last six games with injuries, Woodall was given the green light to play up to 20 minutes,

Dixon said. Woodall was averaging 14.1 points per game at point guard before his injury.

Woodall refused to use his injured groin and abdomen and long absence from the court as an excuse.

I cant blame it on that, Woodall said. We just didnt play well tonight.

Notre Dame (9-5, 1-0) beat Pittsburgh for the fourth straight time and extended its home winning streak to 28 games.

Irish coach Mike Brey called Notre Dames win one of the best games he coached for the program.

I have been a part of a lot of fun games here, he said. But this one ranks right up there with the best. To see us play with that swagger in the second half, I guess I just wasnt sure this group was ready for that.

Notre Dame missed only seven shots in the final 20 minutesy, hitting 18 of 25, including 5 of 8 from beyond the arc.

Alex Dragicevich (6'6''-G) scored 17 of his game-high 22 points, including a 3-for-3 effort from beyond the arc, in the second half. Jerian Grant (6'5''-G) and Eric Atkins (6'1''-G) scored 15 apiece and Grant had nine assists. Jack Cooley gathered 14 rebounds, including 10 in the first half.

But it was Dragicevich that got the crowd excited.

It was more of a collective effort than anything, Dragicevich said. We all knew we needed this win and my teammates told me they were going to put me into a position to score and they did. I knocked a couple down and it was a great feeling.

Pitt was led by Talib Zanna (6'9''-F-90), who had 13 points and 12 rebounds. Robinson and Ashton Gibbs (6'2''-G-90) each added 12 points.

Brey said that he was pleased with the performance of his three guards, but that he was not satisfied.

Now I need to ask them in practice if they can do that for 40 minutes, he said. Tonight we did it for 20 and now we need more.

Pittsburgh led 26-25 at halftime after a physical first 20 minutes. Holding a 25-16 advantage in rebounding, the Panthers struggled from the field with a 34.5 shooting percentage. Notre Dame struggled just a little bit more at 32 percent.

Pittsburgh led by as many as seven points in the first half after an 8-0 run with 7:46 left in the half. The Irish bounced back with a 10-0, four-minute run of their own to take a 22-19 lead, before

slowing down to end the half.

Notre Dames efficiency in the second half was just too much for the Panthers to overcome.

Give them credit, Dixon said. They were patient and we just had some breakdowns that are pretty hard to recover from.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Tech men down Cal St-Bakersfield, 74-58 - by Eurobasket News
The Red Raiders pushed their way above .500 for the season with a 74-58 win over Cal State-Bakersfield Tuesday night.

Tech was led by Jordan Tolbert's (6'7''-F) team-high 27 points and six rebounds. Javarez Willis (5'11''-G) also added 16 points and three steals for the Red Raiders.

Overall, it was a good shooting day for Tech, who shot 60-percent from the field, on the way to the 16-point win in front of over 10,000 fans at the United Spirit Arena.

Turnovers have been the Red Raiders' main flaw thus far in the season, averaging around 20 per game. However, the team limited their mistakes to 13 turnovers against the Roadrunners, and they forced CSU-Bakersfield into 19 turnovers.

Tech plays Southeastern Louisiana Friday, at home, as their last non-conference game. The Red Raiders travel to Stillwater, Ok., to take on Oklahoma State January 4th.

Courtesy of www.kcbd.com

No. 23 Virginia 69, Maryland-Eastern Shore 42 - by Eurobasket News
Mike Scott (6'8''-F-88) scored 10 of his 17 points during a 12-point spurt early in the second half and No. 23 Virginia overcame a sluggish start and beat Maryland-Eastern Shore 69-42 on Tuesday night.

Darion Atkins (6'8''-F) added 13 points and Joe Harris 10 points for Virginia, off to an 11-1 start for the first time since the 2000-01 season. The Cavaliers were playing their first game since KT Harrell and redshirt freshman James Johnson announced on consecutive days last week they were transferring.

It hardly mattered against the Hawks (3-10), who trailed 30-20 at halftime and saw it quickly get out of hand in the second half.

Hillary Haley (6'6''-G-88) led the Hawks with 11 points.

Haley started the second half with a 3-pointer for UMES, but Scott hit a 12-foot jumper and then a layup off a feed from Sammy Zeglinski (6'0''-G-88). After Jontel Evans' driving layup, Scott had a breakaway dunk, another basket and a layup after some highlight reel passing.

On the play, Zeglinski fed Joe Harris, who made a touch pass to Scott for the easy lay-in, making it 42-23

The big attraction the rest of the game was the play of freshman Paul Jesperson. Virginia planned to redshirt the sharpshooter from Merrill, Wis., but no longer has that luxury after losing Harrell, who had started five games, and Johnson, in the two days before Christmas.

Jesperson was cheered every time he reported to the scorer's table, and drew one of the loudest roars of the night with 10 minutes left when he made a 3-pointer from the right corner off an inbounds pass. Moments later, he was called for charging on a driving layup try.

He finished with five points, and walk-on guard Doug Browman also drew a huge roar when he made a 3-pointer late.

Virginia came out fast, scoring the first nine points. The Cavaliers also had an 11-5 run late in the first half to open the 30-20 lead.

Courtesy of www.csnphilly.com

Rick Pitino plans to quit when contract ends in 2017 - by Eurobasket News
Rick Pitino said Tuesday that he won't coach past the 2016-2017 season when his current contract ends at Louisville.

'When you're 59, you're realistic that you don't have a whole lot of years left,' Pitino said at a news conference before the No. 4 Cardinals play Georgetown on Wednesday. 'My contract's going to run out in 2017. I'm not coaching any more after that.'

The former Providence and Kentucky coach has guided the Cardinals to a 12-0 record so far this season.

Louisville's Athletic Association granted Pitino, the only men's coach to lead three different programs to the Final Four, a four-year contract extension in August. He'll make $3 million in base salary until the end of the 2013 season, followed by $3.9 million a year.

Pitino didn't use the word 'retire,' but has said in the past that Louisville would be his last coaching stop. He's 253-96 in his 11th season at Louisville, which reached the Final Four in 2005.

The Cardinals will host the Hoyas in their Big East Conference opener before traveling to face rival and No. 3 Kentucky on Saturday.

Pitino said Louisville hasn't started preparing for Kentucky.

'One thing I've learned to do with my age, I really don't look ahead,' said Pitino, who went 219-50 in eight seasons at Kentucky and won the 1996 national championship. 'For years, I've been preaching the precious present and having to always subscribe to it.'

Senior guard Chris Smith echoed his coach.

'We haven't talked about Kentucky one time yet, and we're going to keep it like that until we come out with a W tomorrow,' he said.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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

NIGERIA

Lagun Aro GBC signs Nigerian Andy Ogide - by Eurobasket News
Lagun Aro GBC announced signing of a one-month deal with Nigerian big guy Andy Ogide (205-F-87, college: Colorado St.). The team has an option to keep the player for rest of the season. Ogide started it with Leche Rio Breogan in LEB Gold. He appeared 13 times for them averaging 5.7 points and 3.6 rebounds. This is the rookie season for Andy Ogide, who graduated at the Colorado State University earlier this year. He had 17.7 ppg and 7.7 rpg for his school as a senior. Ogide was named All-MWC 1st Team -11. As a junior the player had 11.7 ppg and 6.5 rpg with Colorado State. Andy Ogide started collegiate career with the University of Mississippi in 2006. After one year he transferred to Colorado State.

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

PAN ARAB GAMES

Africabasket.com All-Pan Arab Games Awards 2011 - by Eurobasket

Africabasket.com All-Pan Arab Games 1st Team 2011

Ngombo

Wright

Al-Doori

Khatib

Esseghir

MVP: Tanguy Ngombo (197-F-84) of Qatar
Best Guard: Rasheim Wright (192-G-81) of Jordan
Best Forward: Tanguy Ngombo (197-F-84) of Qatar
Best Center: Mohamed Esseghir (208-C/F-85) of Algeria
Best Coach: Qusay Khalaf of Qatar

1st Team
G: Rasheim Wright (192-81) of Jordan
G/F: Qutaiba Al-Doori (198-80) of Iraq
F: Tanguy Ngombo (197-84) of Qatar
F: Fadi Khatib (199-79) of Lebanon
C/F: Mohamed Esseghir (208-85) of Algeria

2nd Team
G: Mourad El Mabrouk (190-86) of Tunisia
G: Anouar Grayssi (193-88) of Morocco
G/F: Jamal Abu-Shamala (196-87) of Palestine
PF: Erfan Ali (198-83) of Qatar
C: Islam Abbaas (200-80) of Jordan

Honorable Mention
Abdulaziz Mohammad (186-G/F-87) of Kuwait
Mounir Benzegala (178-PG-87) of Algeria
Ahmed Samater (198-F/C-80) of Saudi Arabia
Ousseynou N'Diaye (196-G/F-85) of Qatar
Kamal Elfadel (F/C) of Sudan
Amr El Gandy (202-F/C-88) of Egypt
Mohammed Mahdi (203-F/C-91) of Iraq

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

POLAND

Anwil lent young power foward - by Maciej Paszyn
Wojciech Glabas will complete season 2011 / 2012 in 1 liga team WSGK Polfarmex AZS Kutno. It became possible thanks to the agreement of lending with Anwilu Włocławek. Simultaneously a term of the contract with the Pole lengthened the Anwil club to 2015.

This transfer will enable the development for the young player which in the team from Włocławek off on the floor on average 8 min.
New power foward of AZS Kutno will make his debut today during friendly New Year Tournament in Ostrw Wielkopolski.

Anwil lent young power foward - by Maciej Paszyn
Wojciech Glabas (207-F/C-90) will complete season 2011 / 2012 in 1 liga team AZS Polfarmex Kutno. It became possible thanks to the agreement of lending with Anwil Wloclawek. Simultaneously a term of the contract with the Pole lengthened the Anwil club to 2015.

This transfer will enable the development for the young player which in the team from Wocawek off on the floor on average 8 min.
New power foward of AZS Kutno will make his debut today during friendly New Year Tournament in Ostrw Wielkopolski.

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

PUERTO RICO

Carlos Arroyo signs in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, college: FIU) will continue his career in Turkey. The Puerto Rican superstar penned a deal with Besiktas Milangaz Istanbul for rest of the season. He is expected to join his new team for New Year Eve game against Anadolu Efes. According to some sources, Arroyo will earn about $780k until the end of the season. He will replace NBA star Derron Williams, who returned to the US after the lockout. Carlos Arroyo started last season with Miami Heat averaging 5.6 points and 2 assists in 49 NBA games. In March this year he moved to Boston Celtics adding 2.4 ppg and 1.7 apg for 15 games. Arroyo played for the Heat also in 2009/10. Before that, he spent one season with Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv. In the past Carlos Arroy was a member of Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Utah Jazz, Denver Nuggets and Toronto Raptors. He is active member of the Puerto Rican NT for more than 10 years.

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

SERBIA

Darko Cohadarevic leaves Zlatorog Lasko - by Zoran Popovic
Management of Zlatorog Lasko and Darko Cohadarevic (206-F-86, college: Texas Tech) agreed terms and part away. On 10 games in Slovenian league Serbian power forward Cohadarevic average scored 6.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, on 13 games in Adriatic league average scored 5.8 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.1 assists per game. During the career Cohadarevic played for Radivoj Korac, KK Smederevski put Smedrevo, Seward County CC, Texas Tech and AEK Athens.

Lazar Trifunovic joined Papa Johns Omonoia - by Nenad Ilijev
Power forward Lazar Trifunovic (203-F-87, college: Radford) signed the contract till end of season with Cypriot Division A side Papa Johns Pizza Omonoia Nicosia. The Shamrock are fighting for 4th place in the championship that will bring home advantage to Omonoia in playoffs. Belgrade born Trifunovic attended Binghamton University being nominated to AEC All-Rookie team before he transfered to Radford. After successful college career Lazar Trifunovic went to Iceland just before playoffs dominating the league (23.0ppg, 10.3rpg) in 8 games of regular season.
He had very busy summer working out with Scavolini Pesaro and Benetton Treviso where he spent last month practicing with the team of head coach Aleksandar Djordjevic. Trifunovic already made his debut this night in 89-69 loss to EuroChallenge team Intercollege Etha Engomis. He had 18pts, 9rebs and 3ast.

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

SLOVAKIA

D2 - Standings

League One Stage Two Standings

Places 1-8
1. Inter B		0-0
2. Karlovka		0-0
3. Nova Ves B		0-0
4. Petrzalka		0-0
5. Sabinov		0-0
6. Slavia Kosice		0-0
7. Trnava		0-0
8. Ziar/Hronom		0-0
Places 9-16
1. BKM Svit		0-0
2. BSC Bratislava		0-0
3. Holic		0-0
4. Liptovsky M.		0-0
5. Lucenec		0-0
6. Roznava		0-0
7. Sered		0-0
8. SKP Filozof		0-0

Stage One Standings

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

SOUTH KOREA

Standings

KBL Standings

1. Dongbu Promy		26-6
2. Anyang KGC		23-8
3. Sonic Boom KT		20-11
4. KCC Egis		20-11
5. ET Land		15-15
6. Mobis Phoebus		13-17
7. LG Sakers		13-18
8. SK Knights		11-19
9. Daegu Orions		7-24
10. Samsung Th.		6-25

KBL Round 33: Anyang KGC loses to Daegu Orions - by Eurobasket News
Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

The game between second ranked Anyang KGC (23-8) and ninth ranked Daegu Orions (7-24) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Anyang KGC was defeated by Daegu Orions in a tough game in Daegu 76-85. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Anyang KGC. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 85-76. Daegu Orions made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American swingman Chris Williams (199-80, college: Virginia) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds, 8 assists and 6 steals. Forward Dong-Uk Kim (195-81) contributed with 20 points and 4 assists for the winners. Daegu Orions' coach Il-Seung Choo used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. International center Sek-Eun Oh (200-87) answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Anyang KGC. Daegu Orions maintains ninth place with 7-24 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the second position with eight games lost. Daegu Orions are looking forward to face higher ranked SK Knights (#8) in Seoul in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Anyang KGC will have a break next round.
KBL top team - Dongbu Promy (26-6) added another victory to their record. This time they beat seventh ranked LG Sakers (13-18) in Wonju 76-68. American power forward Rodrique Benson (207-84, college: California) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds for the winners and Jae-Wook Ahn chipped in 17 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). The best for the losing side was American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 18 rebounds. LG Sakers' coach Jin Kim rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Dongbu Promy maintains first place with 26-6 record. LG Sakers lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 18 games lost. Dongbu Promy will play against ET Land Elephants (#5) in Inchon in the next round. LG Sakers will play at home against Sonic Boom KT in Busan and hope to get back on the winning track.

In the last two games of round 33 bottom-ranked Samsung Th. were beaten by Sonic Boom KT on the road 78-72. KCC Egis won against ET Land on its own court 72-68.
The most impressive performance of 33th round was 30 points, 17 rebounds and 5 assists by Herbert Hill of ET Land.

Daegu Orions - Anyang KGC 85-76

The game between second ranked Anyang KGC (23-8) and ninth ranked Daegu Orions (7-24) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Anyang KGC was defeated by Daegu Orions in a tough game in Daegu 76-85. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Anyang KGC. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 85-76. Daegu Orions made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American swingman Chris Williams (199-80, college: Virginia) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 13 rebounds, 8 assists and 6 steals. Forward Dong-Uk Kim (195-81) contributed with 20 points and 4 assists for the winners. Daegu Orions' coach Il-Seung Choo used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. International center Sek-Eun Oh (200-87) answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds and guard Tae-Sool Kim (180-84) added 13 points and 5 assists in the effort for Anyang KGC. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Daegu Orions maintains ninth place with 7-24 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the second position with eight games lost. Daegu Orions are looking forward to face higher ranked SK Knights (#8) in Seoul in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Anyang KGC will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Daegu Orions: C.Williams 20+13reb+8ast, D.Kim 20+1reb+4ast, J.Choi 19+3reb, S.Cho 15+2reb+4ast, M.Kim 6+1reb, K.Kim 3
Anyang KGC: S.Oh 17+8reb+2ast, S.Kim 14+2reb+3ast, T.Kim 13+4reb+5ast, C.Park 12+3reb+3ast, J.Lee 8+3reb+1ast, R.White 7+3reb+1ast

Dongbu Promy - LG Sakers 76-68

KBL top team - Dongbu Promy (26-6) added another victory to their record. This time they beat seventh ranked LG Sakers (13-18) in Wonju 76-68. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-18. But LG Sakers won fourth quarter 20-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American power forward Rodrique Benson (207-84, college: California) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 38 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds for the winners and guard Jae-Wook Ahn (175-87) chipped in 17 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). The best for the losing side was American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 18 rebounds and naturalized American forward Gregory Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds. LG Sakers' coach Jin Kim rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Dongbu Promy maintains first place with 26-6 record. LG Sakers lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 18 games lost. Dongbu Promy will play against ET Land Elephants (#5) in Inchon in the next round. LG Sakers will play at home against Sonic Boom KT in Busan and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Dongbu Promy: R.Benson 38+14reb+1ast, J.Ahn 17+2reb+2ast, H.Yoon 11+2reb+4ast, J.Kim 7+8reb+2ast, J.Hwang 2+4reb+1ast, J.Park 1+1ast
LG Sakers: A.Haynes 30+18reb+3ast, G.Stevenson 13+6reb+3ast, H.Park 10+4ast, H.Kim 6+5ast, J.Seo 5+3reb+1ast, C.Song 4+2reb

Sonic Boom KT - Samsung Th. 78-72

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Sonic Boom KT (20-11) beat bottom-ranked Samsung Thunders (6-25) in Busan 78-72. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Samsung Thunders won third quarter 28-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sonic Boom KT brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) stepped up and scored 20 points, 5 rebounds and 6 blocks for the winners and the former international forward Sung-Min Cho (197-83) chipped in 25 points. The best for the losing side was international power forward Eric Sandrin (206-78, college: Seattle Pacific) with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 14 rebounds and American power forward Ira Clark (203-75, college: Texas) scored 21 points and 9 rebounds. Samsung Thunders' coach tested twelve players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Sonic Boom KT moved-up to third place, which they share with KCC Egis. Samsung Thunders lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 25 lost games. Sonic Boom KT will play against LG Sakers (#7) in Changwon in the next round. Samsung Thunders will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Sonic Boom KT: S.Cho 25+2reb+1ast, C.Rhodes 20+5reb+3ast, Y.Song 19+3reb+2ast, D.Kim 6+3reb+3ast, M.Pyo 4+2reb+3ast, W.Yaung 2+2reb+1ast
Samsung Th.: I.Clark 21+9reb, E.Sandrin 14+14reb+2ast, B.Lee 14+2reb+2ast, W.Lee 8+4reb+6ast, J.Park 6, S.Yoo 4

KCC Egis - ET Land 72-68

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 5th ranked ET Land Elephants' (15-15) road loss to fourth ranked KCC Egis (20-11) in Jeonju 68-72. ET Land Elephants were ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 24-10 third quarter run of KCC Egis. American forward DeShawn Sims (203-88, college: Michigan) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and naturalized American guard Tony Akins (180-80, college: Georgia Tech, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points and 8 assists. Five KCC Egis players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Herbert Hill (208-84, college: Providence) with a double-double by scoring 30 points, 17 rebounds and 5 assists and international forward Tae-Jong Moon (199-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) scored 14 points and 7 rebounds. ET Land Elephants' coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. KCC Egis have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Sonic Boom KT. ET Land Elephants at the other side keep the fifth position with 15 games lost. KCC Egis will play against Mobis Phoebus (#6) in Ulsan in the next round. ET Land Elephants will play on the road against the league's leader Dongbu Promy in Wonju and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
KCC Egis: D.Sims 18+11reb+1ast, T.Kim 15+1reb, T.Akins 14+2reb+8ast, M.Jeong 10+3reb, J.Lim 10+2reb+4ast, S.Choo 5+3reb+1ast
ET Land: H.Hill 30+17reb+5ast, T.Moon 14+7reb+2ast, H.Lee 10+5reb+1ast, B.Chung 6+1reb+2ast, K.Shin 3+1reb+3ast, H.Kang 3+3reb+3ast

Promy Finally Defeat Sakers - by Kevin Campigotto
With a win over the Changwon LG Sakers 76-68, the Wonju Dongbu Promy finally defeated the one team that had bested them in both previous meetings. The Sakers made a huge 4th quarter push but couldnt completely the comeback. Wonju's Rod Benson (207-F/C-84, college: California) had a fantastic night putting up 38 points and 14 rebounds. Changwon's Aaron Haynes (201-F-81, college: Boise St.) had 30 points, 12 of which were in the final quarter, and 18 rebounds in a losing effort.

The Promy led for the whole game and only in the final minutes did it seem as though the Sakers might challenge their lead. Wonju's Kim Joo-Sung had an off night but recent standout Ahn Jae-Wook picked up the slack by scoring 17 points.

With this win the Promy are now on a four game win streak and are 10-2 in the month of December. Next up for them is a Friday night matchup against the Inchon ET Elephants.

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

SPAIN

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game

Andy PANKO
  Lagun A.
  (204-F-77)
  Avg: 18.8

1. Panko, Lagun A.	18.8
2. Teletovic, Caja L.	16.8
3. Wright, CAI Z.	16.3
4. Davis, Cajasol	16.3
5. Fernandez, Real M.	16.1
6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	15.9
7. Penney, Fuenlabra.	15.8
8. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.	14.9
9. Doellman, Assignia	14.6
10. Singler, Lucentum	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Rafael HETTSHEIMER
  CAI Z.
  (206-C-86)
  Avg: 8.4

1. Hettsheimer, CAI Z.	8.4
2. Davis, Cajasol	8.4
3. Augustine, UCAM M.	8.3
4. Ivanov, Lucentum	8.2
5. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	8.1
6. Teletovic, Caja L.	7.8
7. Freeland, Unicaja	7.6
8. Baez, FIATC J.	7.3
9. Reyes, Real Madrid	7.3
10. Mainoldi, Fuenlab.	7.0

Assists Per Game

Javier RODRIGUEZ
  Assignia.
  (189-G-79)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Rodriguez, Assigni.	5.7
2. Markovic, Valencia	4.6
3. Dumas, B.de R.	4.1
4. Oliver, FIATC J.	3.9
5. Llull, Real Madrid	3.8
6. Colom, Fuenlabrada	3.8
7. Cabezas, CAI Z.	3.8
8. Huertas, FCB Regal	3.7
9. Salgado, Lagun A.	3.6
10. Rodriguez, Real M.	3.5

Steals Per Game

Rudy FERNANDEZ
  Real M.
  (197-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Fernandez, Real M.	2.4
2. Barnes, Lucentum	1.8
3. Prigioni, Caja L.	1.8
4. Doellman, Assignia	1.7
5. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	1.6
6. Davis, Cajasol	1.5
7. Rodriguez, Assigni.	1.5
8. Downs, Assignia M.	1.4
9. Markovic, Valencia	1.4
10. Fischer, Gescrap	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Serge IBAKA
  Real Madrid
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 2

1. Ibaka, Real Madrid	2.0
2. Fischer, Gescrap BB	1.8
3. Toure, B.de R.	1.7
4. Lasme, Blusens M.	1.7
5. Sene, Fuenlabrada	1.3
6. Baez, FIATC J.	1.3
7. Begic, Real Madrid	1.2
8. Seraphin, Caja L.	1.2
9. Landry, Assignia.	1.2
10. Asselin, Assignia	1.2

Standings - ACB

ACB Standings

1. FCB Regal		11-2
2. Real Madrid		10-2
3. Unicaja		10-3
4. Caja Laboral		9-3
5. Lucentum		9-3
6. Cajasol		7-6
7. Valencia		6-6
8. Fuenlabrada		6-6
9. CAI Zaragoza		6-6
10. Gescrap BB		5-6
11. GC 2014		5-7
12. Assignia M.		5-8
13. Lagun Aro GBC		4-8
14. FIATC Joventut		4-8
15. Blusens M.		4-9
16. UCAM Murcia		4-9
17. Asefa Estudian.		4-9
18. B.de Rueda V.		2-10

SWEDEN

Standings - Basketligan

Basketligan Standings

1. LF Basket		13-5
2. Boras		12-7
3. Norrkoping		11-7
4. Sodertalje		11-8
5. Sundsvall		11-8
6. 08		10-9
7. Uppsala		10-9
8. Solna		9-10
9. Jamtland		7-12
10. Eco Orebro		0-19

Stats Leaders - Basketligan

Points Per Game

Stephen MCDOWELL
  Solna
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 23

1. McDowell, Solna	23.0
2. Zabas, Jamtland	21.4
3. Krayem, Boras	20.1
4. Palm, Boras	19.4
5. Sigurdarson, Sunds.	19.2
6. Mbemba, LF Basket	18.9
7. Smith, Sodertalje	18.4
8. Klaric, Jamtland	18.4
9. McKnight, Boras	17.5
10. Gunnarsson, Solna	17.3

Rebounds Per Game

Michael PALM
  Boras
  (208-C-79)
  Avg: 11.5

1. Palm, Boras	11.5
2. Baeringsson, Sunds.	11.1
3. Johnson, Uppsala	10.5
4. Toombs, Eco Orebro	10.1
5. Ramsey, LF Basket	9.7
6. Simms, Sodertalje	8.6
7. Lalugba, Jamtland	8.5
8. Ayuba, Norrkoping	8.2
9. Watt, Eco Orebro	8.0
10. McKnight, Boras	7.8

Assists Per Game

Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Mbemba, LF Basket	7.5
2. Krayem, Boras	6.3
3. Pleick, Eco Orebro	5.9
4. Ermolinskij, Sunds.	5.5
5. Carter, Uppsala	5.4
6. Chuk, Sodertalje	5.1
7. Mitchell, Norrkopi.	4.0
8. Zabas, Jamtland	3.9
9. Beck, Solna	3.8
10. Hellgren, Jamtland	3.8

Steals Per Game

Rhys CARTER
  Uppsala
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Carter, Uppsala	2.7
2. Smith, Sodertalje	2.7
3. Mbemba, LF Basket	2.5
4. Mitchell, Norrkopi.	2.5
5. Pleick, Eco Orebro	2.1
6. Krayem, Boras	2.1
7. Ermolinskij, Sunds.	1.9
8. Johnson, Sundsvall	1.9
9. Ramsey, LF Basket	1.9
10. McDowell, Solna	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Keith RAMSEY
  LF Basket
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Ramsey, LF Basket	2.1
2. Johnson, Uppsala	2.0
3. Simms, Sodertalje	1.8
4. Lalugba, Jamtland	1.5
5. Gregory, Sundsvall	1.3
6. Toombs, Eco Orebro	1.2
7. Watt, Eco Orebro	1.2
8. Doychinov, Solna	1.1
9. Akesson, 08	0.8
10. Palm, Boras	0.8

Basketligan Round 19: Norrkoping Dolphins lose to KFUM Jamtland - by Eurobasket News
The game between third ranked Norrkoping Dolphins (11-7) and ninth ranked KFUM Jamtland (7-12) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Norrkoping Dolphins were defeated by KFUM Jamtland in Norrkoping 72-86. The game was mostly controlled by KFUM Jamtland. Norrkoping Dolphins managed to win fourth quarter 20-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Jason Stamper (200-F/C-85, agency: JEMsports, college: Minnesota) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Lithuanian point guard Evaldas Zabas (188-88) contributed with 21 points and 8 assists for the winners. American-British forward Oladapo Ayuba (198-86, college: UMKC) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for Norrkoping Dolphins. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. KFUM Jamtland maintains ninth place with 7-12 record. Defending champion Norrkoping Dolphins keep the third position with seven games lost. KFUM Jamtland are looking forward to face higher ranked Sundsvall Dragons (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Norrkoping Dolphins will play against the league's second-placed Boras Basket having rather not much hope for a victory.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Boras Basket (12-7) against fourth ranked Sodertalje Kings (11-8) on Tuesday night. Visiting Boras Basket was defeated by Sodertalje Kings in Sodertalje 89-76. It was a great evening for American point guard Johnell Smith (186-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. Dino Pita helped adding 20 points and 5 rebounds. Sodertalje Kings' coach Vedran Bosnic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side Lebanese-American guard Omar Krayem (185-86, college: Cal.Baptist) responded with 25 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. Sodertalje Kings have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 11-8 record, which they share with Sundsvall. Boras Basket at the other side keeps the second position with seven games lost. Sodertalje Kings will play against Solna Vikings (#8) on the road in the next round. Boras Basket will play against Norrkoping Dolphins (#3) in Norrkoping and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Basketligan top team - LF Basket (13-5) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed sixth ranked 08 Stockholm (10-9) 83-64. It was a quality performance for Rudy Mbemba who led the winners and scored 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. LF Basket's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Nils Hedstrom came up with 17 points and 4 steals for 08 Stockholm in the defeat. LF Basket have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 13-5 record. 08 Stockholm lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with nine games lost. They share it with Uppsala. LF Basket will meet KFUM Jamtland (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. 08 Stockholm will have a break next round.
Bottom-ranked Eco Orebro is still unable to win any game. This time they lost on the road their 19th consecutive match to fifth ranked Sundsvall Dragons (11-8) 94-84. Jakob Sigurdarson fired 28 points and 4 assists for the winners. Sundsvall Dragons moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Sodertalje. Eco Orebro lost their nineteenth game in a row. They still closes the standings. Sundsvall Dragons' next round opponent will be KFUM Jamtland (#9) at home which should be theoretically an easy game. Eco Orebro will play against Uppsala Basket and hopes to get finally their first victory.
The game between seventh ranked Uppsala Basket (10-9) and 8th ranked Solna Vikings (9-10) in Uppsala on Monday ended with biggest points difference. Uppsala Basket outscored guests from Solna 86-66. It was a very good performance for Rhys Carter who helped to win the game recording 30 points and 7 steals. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Uppsala Basket. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 08. Loser Solna Vikings keep the eighth position with ten games lost. Uppsala Basket will face bottom-ranked Eco Orebro (#10) on the road in the next round. Solna Vikings will play against Sodertalje Kings.

Sundsvall - Eco Orebro 94-84

Bottom-ranked Eco Orebro is still unable to win any game. This time they lost on the road their 19th consecutive match to fifth ranked Sundsvall Dragons (11-8) 94-84. The game without a history. Sundsvall Dragons led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists. Icelandic guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern) fired 28 points and 4 assists for the winners. American forward Dino Gregory (200, college: Maryland) chipped in a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds. American center Bernard Toombs (208-87, college: Troy) produced a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds and Greek power forward Theodoros Georgitsis (205-83) added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Sundsvall Dragons moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Sodertalje. Eco Orebro lost their nineteenth game in a row. They still closes the standings. Sundsvall Dragons' next round opponent will be KFUM Jamtland (#9) at home which should be theoretically an easy game. Eco Orebro will play against Uppsala Basket and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Sundsvall: J.Sigurdarson 28+3reb+4ast, D.Gregory 23+10reb+1ast, H.Baeringsson 17+11reb+4ast, P.Ermolinskij 11+7reb+11ast, T.Oglesby 8+2reb+5ast, T.Liden 5+2ast
Eco Orebro: B.Toombs 26+12reb+1ast, B.Barton 20+1reb+1ast, T.Georgitsis 13+6reb+6ast, S.Licartovsky 12+5reb+3ast, P.Hampton 6+4reb+3ast, A.Pleick 3+1reb+2ast

Norrkoping - Jamtland 72-86

The game between third ranked Norrkoping Dolphins (11-7) and ninth ranked KFUM Jamtland (7-12) was the most important one in the last round on Tuesday night. Norrkoping Dolphins were defeated by KFUM Jamtland in Norrkoping 72-86. The game was mostly controlled by KFUM Jamtland. Norrkoping Dolphins managed to win fourth quarter 20-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Jason Stamper (200-85, college: Minnesota, agency: JEMsports) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Lithuanian point guard Evaldas Zabas (188-88) contributed with 21 points and 8 assists for the winners. Stamper is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American-British forward Oladapo Ayuba (198-86, college: UMKC) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and naturalized American forward Fred Drains (195-71, college: Kean) added 15 points in the effort for Norrkoping Dolphins. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. KFUM Jamtland maintains ninth place with 7-12 record. Defending champion Norrkoping Dolphins keep the third position with seven games lost. KFUM Jamtland are looking forward to face higher ranked Sundsvall Dragons (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Norrkoping Dolphins will play against the league's second-placed Boras Basket having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Jamtland: J.Stamper 24+11reb+3ast, E.Zabas 21+3reb+8ast, D.Klaric 18+2reb+2ast, B.Bjornsson 9+3reb+2ast, B.Lalugba 7+6reb+2ast, F.Rasmusson 4+4reb
Norrkoping: O.Ayuba 18+11reb+4ast, F.Drains 15+4reb+1ast, A.Saks 13+3reb+1ast, M.Lindquist 8+4reb+1ast, A.Mitchell 7+3reb+2ast, E.Jeromanovs 6+3reb+3ast

Sodertalje - Boras 89-76

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Boras Basket (12-7) against fourth ranked Sodertalje Kings (11-8) on Tuesday night. Visiting Boras Basket was defeated by Sodertalje Kings in Sodertalje 89-76. The game was mostly controlled by Sodertalje Kings. Boras Basket was better in third quarter 26-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sodertalje Kings brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. Boras Basket was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for American point guard Johnell Smith (186-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. International guard Dino Pita (192-88) helped adding 20 points and 5 rebounds. Sodertalje Kings' coach Vedran Bosnic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side Lebanese-American guard Omar Krayem (185-86, college: Cal.Baptist) responded with 25 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals and the former international center Michael Palm (208-79, college: W.Washington, agency: R.H.Consultancy) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 16 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Sodertalje Kings have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 11-8 record, which they share with Sundsvall. Boras Basket at the other side keeps the second position with seven games lost. Sodertalje Kings will play against Solna Vikings (#8) on the road in the next round. Boras Basket will play against Norrkoping Dolphins (#3) in Norrkoping and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Sodertalje: D.Pita 20+5reb, J.Smith 17+4reb+6ast, M.Griskenas 13+6reb+1ast, K.Simms 11+9reb, J.Andersson 11+1reb, A.Chuk 6+8reb+6ast
Boras: O.Krayem 25+5reb+8ast, R.Zamroz 19+3reb, M.Palm 12+16reb+1ast, C.McKnight 10+9reb+1ast, J.Thomas 5+3reb, H.Carlsson 3+1ast

08 - LF Basket 64-83

Basketligan top team - LF Basket (13-5) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed sixth ranked 08 Stockholm (10-9) 83-64. The game was mostly controlled by LF Basket. 08 Stockholm managed to win second period 16-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LF Basket dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to 08 Stockholm's 24. They outrebounded 08 Stockholm 43-28 including a 34-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a quality performance for the former international guard Rudy Mbemba (181-87) who led the winners and scored 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. American forward Keith Ramsey (206-87, college: Missouri, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) accounted for 15 points and 11 rebounds for the winning side. Four LF Basket players scored in double figures. LF Basket's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Guard Nils Hedstrom (190-83) came up with 17 points and 4 steals and the former international center Johan Akesson (210-84, agency: Warren Sports International) added 13 points respectively for 08 Stockholm in the defeat. LF Basket have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 13-5 record. 08 Stockholm lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with nine games lost. They share it with Uppsala. LF Basket will meet KFUM Jamtland (#9) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. 08 Stockholm will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
LF Basket: R.Mbemba 20+7reb+4ast, K.Ramsey 15+11reb, J.Safford 12+4reb+8ast, N.Sellin 11+4reb+1ast, M.Pahlmblad 8+4reb+3ast, C.Ryan 7+5reb
08: N.Hedstrom 17+2reb, J.Akesson 13+4reb+1ast, J.Blom 10+3reb+2ast, O.Ilunga 7+2reb+3ast, B.Cvilak 5+3reb+2ast, H.Magnusson 5+4reb+1ast

Uppsala - Solna 86-66

The game between seventh ranked Uppsala Basket (10-9) and 8th ranked Solna Vikings (9-10) in Uppsala on Monday ended with biggest points difference. Uppsala Basket outscored guests from Solna 86-66. The game was mostly controlled by Uppsala Basket. Solna Vikings was better in second period 19-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a very good performance for Australian guard Rhys Carter (190-84) who helped to win the game recording 30 points and 7 steals. The former international swingman Stefan Grundberg (198-82, college: Geneva) contributed with 23 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. The former international forward Lesli Myrthil (200-77, college: Wagner) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds and American forward William Walker (201-87, college: Bethel, IN, agency: Warren Sports International) added 13 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Solna Vikings. Four Solna Vikings players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. The victory was the third consecutive win for Uppsala Basket. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 08. Loser Solna Vikings keep the eighth position with ten games lost. Uppsala Basket will face bottom-ranked Eco Orebro (#10) on the road in the next round. Solna Vikings will play against Sodertalje Kings.
Top scorers:
Uppsala: R.Carter 30+4reb+2ast, S.Grundberg 23+6reb+1ast, R.Eriksson 13+1reb+4ast, A.Nordstrom 9+3reb+3ast, M.Nakos 6+1reb+4ast, O.Jonsson 2
Solna: L.Myrthil 16+9reb+2ast, W.Walker 13+9reb+3ast, W.Beck 12+4reb+4ast, L.Gunnarsson 10+3reb+3ast, A.Miller 5+1reb+1ast, T.Laser 4+3reb+1ast

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TUNISIA

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

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

E.S.Sahel remains undefeated - by Eurobasket News
E.S.Sahel remains undefeated with 7-0 record on top. The league leaders won over Tunisair 94:49. Etoile Sportive Goulettoise, Stade Nabeulien and C.Africain have 6-2 records each. Stade overcame JS Manazeh 65:55, while Etoile Sportive Goulettoise edged ASC Bizerte 74:73. C Africain grabbed valuable win over Ezzahra 78:77.

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TURKEY

Will Caudle is a newcomer at Gamateks Pamukkale Univ. - by Greg
Gamateks Pamukkale Univ. (TB2L) strengthened their roster with addition of 29-year old American center Will Caudle (206-C-115kg-82, college: Xavier). Caudle played most recently at Union Atletica (Uruguay). While playing 10 games for Un.Atletica this season he averaged 14.6ppg, 9.0rpg, 2.1apg and 1.6spg. Caudle is a very experienced player. He played also pro basketball in Dominican Rep., France, Japan, Uruguay and Venezuela. Caudle graduated from Xavier University in 2006 and it will be his sixth season in pro basketball.

The Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 draw - by Pervin Elgin
The Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 draw determined the groups that make up the second phase of the Euroleague which will take place on Wednesday, December 28. The games will be played on Wednesdays and Thursdays between January 18 and March 1, the best two teams from each Top 16 group will move on to the playoffs for a spot in the 2012 Final Four, from May 11 to 13 at Istanbuls Sinan Erdem Arena.

Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 draw is as follow:

GROUP E
CSKA Moscow
Olympiacos Piraeus BC
Anadolu Efes
Galatasara Medical Park

GROUP F
Real Madrid
Montepaschi Siena
Unicaja Malaga
BB Gescrap

GROUP G
Fenerbahce Ulker
Panathinaikos Athens
Unics Kazan
EA7 Emporio Armani

GROUP H
Regal FC Barcelona
Maccabi Electra
Tel Aviv
Bennet Cantu
Zalgiris Kaunas

Trabzon hires Halil Uner as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Trabzon got a new Head Coach just one day after they released Tolga Ongoren. Turkish specialist Halil Uner will lead the team for rest of the season. He worked with Aliaga Petkim most recently. Uner took over Aliaga during the summer of 2009 and worked there until January this year. In 2008/09, Halil Uner was a Head Coach of Kepez. He helped them survive in D1 that season. Before Kepez, Uner spent one year with Darussafaka. In the past, he coached Galatsaray, Fenerbahce, Karsiyaka and Efes Pilsen. Halil Uner was Coach of the Year in Turkey in 1987, 1988, 1991 and last time in 2002. He won two Turkish league titles back in 1984 and 1985 with Galatasaray.

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

UKRAINE

Ramel Curry gets MVP of the Week award for Ukrainian Superleague - by Eurobasket News
Experienced American Ramel Curry (192-G-80) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader BC Donetsk and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
The 31-year old guard had the game-high 21 points adding nine rebounds and seven assists for BC Donetsk in his team's victory, helping them to crush Halychyna (#14, 2-17) with 17-point margin 88-71. It allowed BC Donetsk to jump to the first place in the Ukrainian Superleague. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. BC Donetsk has a very solid 13-4 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Curry had a remarkable four three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be BC Donetsk's top player in his first season with the team. Ramel Curry averages this season 14.1ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 30-year old American center R.T. Guinn (208-C-81) of Ferro-ZNTU. Guinn impressed basketball fans with 33 points and 8 rebounds. Of course he lead Ferro-ZNTU to another comfortable win outscoring slightly higher-ranked Dnipro (#7, 11-7) 96-73. Ferro-ZNTU's 8th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 11-9 record is not bad and everything may still change. Guinn is a newcomer at Ferro-ZNTU and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.5ppg (#5). He also registered 6.3 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Stanley Pringle (184-PG-87) of DniproAzot (#12). Pringle showcased his all-around game by recording 22 points, eight rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of DniproAzot, leading his team to a 71-62 win against slightly higher-ranked Mykolaiv (#10, 7-13). The chances of DniproAzot not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 14 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Pringle could try to bring DniproAzot's a little bit higher in the standings. Pringle has a very solid season. In 20 games in Ukraine he scored 13.9ppg. He also has 3.6apg and and 3PT: 44.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ricky Minard (196-F/G-82) of Azovmash - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Stanley Pringle (184-PG-87) of DniproAzot - 26 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Mike Davis (205-F-88) of Ferro-ZNTU - 11 points, 16 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Michael Dunigan (208-C-89) of DniproAzot - 19 points and 12 rebounds
8. Artur Drozdov (199-G-80) of Azovmash - 18 points and 8 rebounds
9. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87) of Budivelnyk - 17 points and 7 rebounds
10. Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84) of BC Kyiv - 10 points and 15 rebounds

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

Pavlo Burenko joins Budivelnyk - by Eurobasket News
Budivelnyk strengthened their backcourt. They landed Pavlo Burenko (184-PG-90). The guard spent the last season with BC Kyiv. He tallied 10.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game. Pavlo Burenko was named into Eurobasket.com Superleague All-Domestic Players Team. This season the guard notched 0.8 points, 1.1 boards and 0.8 assists per Superleague appearance. Previously Pavlo Burenko played for SK Adzhalyk Yuzny. The guard was the member of Ukrainian U18 National Team. He was also the member of Ukrainian University National Team. Pavlo Burenko participated at 2011 World Universiade. He notched 8.1 points, 4.7 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game in Shenzhen.

Fesenko to sign with Warriors - by Eurobasket News
Fifth-year center Kyrylo Fesenko (7'0''-C-86) has agreed to a one-year, $1.07 million deal with Golden State, league sources told SI.com.

The Warriors signed veteran big man Kwame Brown to a one-year, $7 million deal recently but are clearly concerned about their frontcourt in the oversized Western Conference. Veteran center Andris Biedrins has been subpar in recent years and Brown was expected to push for the starting center role, but he entered the season out of shape and was off to a slow start before playing well in Monday night's win over Chicago.

Fesenko -- a 7-foot, 280-pound center who spent his first four seasons in Utah -- was reportedly being pursued by Dallas, Miami and Toronto. He has never averaged more than eight minutes in a season but was key for the Jazz during the 2010 playoffs in which they were forced to play without center Mehmet Okur. Fesenko was a second-round pick by Philadelphia in 2007.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Budivelnyk		14-5
2. Azovmash		13-5
3. BC Donetsk		13-5
4. Hoverla		13-7
5. Khimik		13-7
6. Dnipro		11-7
7. BC Odessa		11-7
8. Ferro-ZNTU		11-9
9. BC Kyiv		9-10
10. Mykolaiv		7-13
11. Cherkasy		6-13
12. DniproAzot		6-14
13. Kryvbasbasket		5-14
14. Halychyna		2-18

Jerome Moiso is on his way to Dnipro - by Eurobasket News
Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk are closing on the deal with Moiso Jerome (208-C/F-78, college: UCLA). The Ukrainian team hoped to land Kyrylo Fesenko (213-C-86). However after the centre left for the Golden State Warriors Dnipro turned their eyes on Moiso Jerome. The French centre spent the last season in China. He played for Jiangsu Nangang Dragons Nanjing. Moiso Jerome posted 15.3 points, 11.6 boards, 1.8 blocks and 1.2 assists per game in CBA. He received Asia-Basket.com All-Chinese Honourable Mention. Previously the Frenchman had stints in Spain, Russia, Italy and NBA. Moiso Jerome was the member of French National Team in 1997-2003. He also played for French U18 and U22 National Teams.

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Willie SOLOMON
  Cherkasy
  (187-G-78)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Solomon, Cherkasy	20.4
2. Culpepper, Fe.	20.1
3. Burtt, Dnipro	19.1
4. Guinn, Fe.	18.5
5. King, BC Odessa	18.4
6. Deane, BC Odessa	17.8
7. Minard, Azovmash	17.4
8. McClinton, Budivel.	17.0
9. Mitchell, Khimik	16.9
10. Pecherov, Azovma.	16.8

Rebounds Per Game

Shawn KING
  BC Odessa
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 10.6

1. King, BC Odessa	10.6
2. Vukosavljevi., Hal.	10.3
3. Davis, Fe.	9.0
4. Fraser, DniproAzot	8.9
5. Davis, Kryvbasb.	8.8
6. Korniyenko, Dnipro	8.7
7. Dunigan, DniproAzot	8.6
8. Pecherov, Azovmash	8.2
9. Odufuwa, Halychyna	8.1
10. Goodridge, BC Kyiv	8.0

Assists Per Game

Derrick ZIMMERMAN
  BC Kyiv
  (191-G-81)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Zimmerman, BC Kyiv	6.3
2. Mitchell, Khimik	5.8
3. Deane, BC Odessa	5.7
4. Ewing, Azovmash	5.4
5. Burtt, Dnipro	5.3
6. Butskyy, Fe.	5.0
7. Florence, Kryvbasb.	5.0
8. Ervin, BC Kyiv	4.5
9. Vaughn, Mykolaiv	4.4
10. Rybalko, Fe.	4.4

Steals Per Game

James FLORENCE
  Kryvbasb.
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Florence, Kryvbasb.	2.2
2. Chappell, Fe.	2.0
3. House, Dnipro	1.9
4. Ewing, Azovmash	1.8
5. Minard, Azovmash	1.7
6. Curry, BC Donetsk	1.7
7. Tiggs, Hoverla	1.7
8. Sirsnins, DniproAz.	1.6
9. Nelson, BC Donetsk	1.6
10. Davis, Kryvbasb.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Vernon GOODRIDGE
  BC Kyiv
  (206-F-84)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Goodridge, BC Kyiv	2.4
2. King, BC Odessa	2.3
3. McClintock, Mykola.	2.3
4. Davis, Kryvbasb.	2.1
5. Gorbenko, Dnipr.	1.7
6. Korniyenko, Dnipro	1.7
7. Rizvic, Azovmash	1.5
8. Kravtsov, BC Do.	1.4
9. Wallace, Halychyna	1.4
10. Hunter, Mykolaiv	1.4

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UNITED KINGDOM

Director Lewis's New Role - by Jeff King
The Sheffield Sharks have a new-look about them this season and not just on the court. Former GB Under-20s Coach and last year's Head Coach of the Essex Pirates in the BBL, Tim Lewis , has joined them after Essexs demise. Lewis has the title of Director of Basketball and it is a role hes new to and growing in to.

'Yes, definitely new. Still trying to get a shape and a feel for what that is, how it looks and where the programme is. We want to re-introduce a performance programme and pathway throughout, re-aligning the juniors and bringing them through on the boys side.'

'I guess take the ideas we had at Essex Pirates where we never quite got over that final hurdle and put them into practice at a Club that has been established for a considerable time. Im really enjoying it so far. People have been great and I think once you get your feet further under the table and get a real feel for what we can do then well just fly.'

Part of his role is to be Sharks Head Coach Atiba Lyons Assistant Coach and his eyes and ears on the sidelines especially when Lyons is on court. His assessment of Sheffields start is as honest and as informative as you would expect.

'I dont think weve really got out the gates yet. Weve sort of held back a little. Were lacking a spot but I dont think thats the reason we just havent quite found ourselves yet. Theres definitely more to come, I think we can play better and harder than we have done.'

'I think were a capable team, theres experience there but theres also a bit newness too. Atiba Lyons has got a couple of younger guys there now which he needs to figure out and see where they fit so its very much a new team too. Well have to see how it turns out.'

Lewis also believes the BBL and its competitiveness is also something exciting and great to be involved in although he does have some reservations.

'I think the league is moving forward but it continues to have the lack of that commercial aspect which is always going to hold it back and once we get over that hurdle we can move it forward even more. Its great that its back on Sky Sports who do a good job in bringing it people to watch which can only help the exposure.'

'Newcastle continue to be consistently strong and they have a core of players that have been there for a number of years and its not a complete change so its consistent and people know what to expect. You bring in Paul Gause and its one piece to fit in not four or five.'

'I like what Rob Paternostros done at Leicester, hes got people at every position and hes now just moulding and morphing those. I also like Worcester. I think that Paul James has done a good job assembling that team and he seems to have two players at every position including a lot of experience and runs a good system to fit what he has.'

'Overall the level in the league is up despite the fact that like everywhere the financial climate is just hurting everything, the league, the teams and its just a matter of weathering that.'

As for Sheffield and where he and the organisation would like to be as they move forward? Well they went in to the Christmas break with two great wins improving their league record to 5 - 4 but, again, Lewis is realistic whilst acknowledging the history of the Sharks.

'They always set their stall out to be a top four team, definitely to be in the play-offs and feature. Weve got our work cut out the second half of this season. Its going to pick up after Christmas. Weve got to play Newcastle again in the Trophy semi-final and some of the top teams that we havent seen much of yet. But our expectations are a top four play-off team so well see how that goes.'

Director Lewis's New Role - by Jeff King
The Sheffield Sharks have a new-look about them this season and not just on the court. Former GB Under-20s Coach and last years Head Coach of the Essex Pirates in the BBL has joined them after Essexs demise. Lewis has the title of Director of Basketball and it is a role hes new to and growing in to.

Yes, definitely new. Still trying to get a shape and a feel for what that is, how it looks and where the programme is. We want to re-introduce a performance programme and pathway throughout, re-aligning the juniors and bringing them through on the boys side.

I guess take the ideas we had at Essex Pirates where we never quite got over that final hurdle and put them into practice at a Club that has been established for a considerable time.

Im really enjoying it so far. People have been great and I think once you get your feet further under the table and get a real feel for what we can do then well just fly.

Part of his role is to be Sharks Head Coach Atiba Lyons Assistant Coach and his eyes and ears on the sidelines especially when Lyons is on court. His assessment of Sheffields start is as honest and as informative as you would expect.

I dont think weve really got out the gates yet. Weve sort of held back a little. Were lacking a spot but I dont think thats the reason we just havent quite found ourselves yet. Theres definitely more to come, I think we can play better and harder than we have done.

I think were a capable team, theres experience there but theres also a bit newness too. Atiba Lyons has got a couple of younger guys there now which he needs to figure out and see where they fit so its very much a new team too. Well have to see how it turns out.

Lewis also believes the BBL and its competitiveness is also something exciting and great to be involved in although he does have some reservations.

I think the league is moving forward but it continues to have the lack of that commercial aspect which is always going to hold it back and once we get over that hurdle we can move it forward even more. Its great that its back on Sky Sports who do a good job in bringing it people to watch which can only help the exposure.

Newcastle continue to be consistently strong and they have a core of players that have been there for a number of years and its not a complete change so its consistent and people know what to expect. You bring in Paul Gause and its one piece to fit in not four or five.

I like what Rob Paternostros done at Leicester, hes got people at every position and hes now just moulding and morphing those. I also like Worcester. I think that Paul James has done a good job assembling that team and he seems to have two players at every position including a lot of experience and runs a good system to fit what he has.

Overall the level in the league is up despite the fact that like everywhere the financial climate is just hurting everything, the league, the teams and its just a matter of weathering that.

As for Sheffield and where he and the organisation would like to be as they move forward? Again, Lewis is realistic whilst acknowledging the history of the Sharks.

They always set their stall out to be a top four team, definitely to be in the play-offs and feature. Weve got our work cut out the second half of this season. Its going to pick up after Christmas. Weve got to play Newcastle again in the Trophy semi-final and some of the top teams that we havent seen much of yet.

But our expectations are a top four play-off team so well see how that goes.

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

URUGUAY

Jennings comes back to Atletico Cordon - by Eurobasket Center
Atletico Cordon added to their roster 28-year old American guard Timothy Jennings (193-G-88kg-83, college: Gardner-Webb). Its actually Jennings comeback to Cordon as he played here before. In his first game he scored 34 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and 4 assists helping his new team beat Larre Borges 80-78. Jennings played most recently at Sportiva Italiana Valparaiso (Chile). He is a very experienced player. Jennings played also pro basketball in Argentina, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Rep., Germany, Ireland, Mexico and Venezuela. He graduated Gardner-Webb University in 2006 and actually missed last season. It will be his sixth season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Bigua-Hebraica: fans stormed the court - by Hector Lopez
Bigua was defeating Hebraica Macabi, the Lub leader, 89-86 with three seconds to play when fans from both sides stormed the court and the game was suspended. For Bigua Ryan Humphrey (203-C/F-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) netted 39 opoints and Emilio Taboada (191-F-82) added 20. For Hebraica Mauricio Aguiar (197-F-83, agency: Players Group) 36 points, Hatila Passos (211-C-86, college: N.Mexico St.) 8 and Kodi Augustus (203-F-87, college: Mississippi St.) 4. Before the game started was announced that Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80, college: Texas A&M) will not be playing anymore this season for Bigua, due to economical problems in the team. Other results:
Other results:
Union Atletica 72 - Sebastian Izaguirre (207-C/F-85) 18 points 8 rebounds 4 assists, Elgrace Wilborn (203-F-83, college: W.Kentucky) 5 points 9 rebounds 1 block, O'Louis McCullough (198-G/F-82, college: Francis Marion) 8 points 2 rebounds 2 blocks
Aguada 60 - Steffphon Pettigrew (195-F, college: W.Kentucky) 25 points 7 rebounds, Devin Davis (202-F-74, college: Miami, OH) 8 points 16 rebounds 2 blocks, Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 10 points 10 rebounds 3 blocks
- - -
Cordon 80 - Timothy Jennings (193-G-83, college: Gardner-Webb) 34 points 4 rebounds 4 assists, Derrick Miller (202-C/F-78, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Georgetown, KY) 12 points 4 rebounds
Larre Borges 78 - Justin Keenan (201-F/C-88, college: Ferris St.) 30 points 8 rebounds
- - -
Bohemios 79 - Jamaal Douglas (201-F-85, college: E.Kentucky) 23 points 6 rebounds 3 assists, 1 block, Rammel Allen (210-C-79, college: Bridgeport) 19 points 14 rebounds 3 blocks 2 assists
Malvin 72 - Anthony Myles (208-F/C-82, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Xavier) 20 points 11 rebounds, Reque Newsome (204-C-81, college: S.Indiana) 10 points 3 rebounds 2 blocks, Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) 11 points 3 rebounds
- - -
Montevideo 87 - Daniel Rivero (182-PG-77) 27 points 3 rebounds 7 assists, Otis Polk (206-C-88, college: Bowling Green) 11 points 6 rebounds 1 block 4 assists, Daniel Gilbert (198-G-83, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Buffalo) 14 points 5 rebounds 6 assists,
Cader - Willard Crews (203-F-88, college: Bowie St.) 29 points 9 rebounds 2 blocks 2 assists, Terry Evans (196-F-86, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) 20 points 11 rebounds 1 block 7 assists

Standings - LUB

LUB Standings

Capital
1. Hebraica		18-2
2. Malvin		15-6
3. Defensor		15-6
4. Welcome		13-8
5. Aguada		13-9
6. Bigua		12-9
7. Trouville		11-11
8. Larre Borges		11-11
9. Un.Atletica		10-11
10. Cordon		9-12
11. Olimpia		8-13
12. Guruyu Waston		8-13
13. Bohemios		8-13
14. Montevideo		8-14
15. Sayago		6-16
16. Cader		5-16
Littoral
1. Anastasia		4-0
2. Remeros		3-1
3. Wanderers		2-2
4. Universitario S.		1-3
5. Juventus Salto		0-4
South
1. Lagomar		5-0
2. Plaza		3-2
3. Lavalleja		2-2
4. Maldonado		2-3
5. Flores Trinidad		0-5

Stats Lead