Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 2/18/2011

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Men News

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ABA

N.W.Indiana Magical Stars defeat Admirals - by Gianni Pascucci
The North West Indiana Magical Stars returned to St. Josephs, Michigan the past weekend to avenge a January 22nd loss, and they did just that by defeating the Lake Michigan Admirals, 117-111. The Stars opened the game on a 28-11 run, but found themselves trailing 62-48 at halftime. They fought back in the 3rd quarter to close the gap to nine, and outscored the Admirals 44-29 in the 4th quarter to complete the amazing comeback.
The Stars were led by Elliot Engelmann (6'6''-F-87, college: Mercyhurst), whose 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists paced the squad. Newly acquired forward Andrew Zimmer (6'6''-F/C-85, college: Wabash) dominated the paint with 31 points and 9 rebounds. The Stars leading scorer on the season, Marcus Hammonds (6'5''-F, college: Texas A&M - C.C.), had a well-rounded game with 16 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Rob Broughton (6'5''-F, college: St.Xavier) added 15 points and 13 rebounds, and former Villanova point guard Bobby Smith chipped in 14 points and 10 assists. 'We played with a lot of heart', stated Hammonds 'To come up here and beat a playoff-caliber team, this win feels good'
While the game was high scoring, it was the Stars second-half defense that got them the victory. 'We really picked up our defensive intensity in the second half', said Engelmann, 'and thats how we were able to get back into this game'.

The Stars road win was even more impressive, as they only dressed eight players. 'We came up here with only eight guys', said Associate Head Coach A.J. McLinn. 'But those eight showed a lot of heart and fought hard to get the win. Im very proud of them'.
The Stars will look to build on this performance next weekend as they travel to St. Louis to take on the Pioneers. 'St. Louis will be another tough road test for us', stated Co-Owner and General Manager Derrick Smith. 'Weve been traveling all over the Midwest this season, playing games in Chicago, Indianapolis, as well as many other cities. Our squad is getting stronger each day, and the future is looking bright'.

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AUSTRALIA

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Gary ERVIN
  Hawks
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 20.9

1. Ervin, Hawks	20.9
2. Penney, Breakers	19.5
3. Redhage, Wildcats	18.0
4. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	17.1
5. Williams, Tigers	17.1
6. Worthington, Blaze	16.8
7. Clark, Blaze	16.6
8. Ballinger, 36ers	15.7
9. Wilkinson, Breakers	15.2
10. Ubaka, Taipans	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	10.6
2. Davidson, Hawks	8.0
3. Vukona, Breakers	7.5
4. Brown, Wildcats	7.4
5. Nevill, Tigers	7.4
6. Holmes, 36ers	7.3
7. Worthington, Blaze	7.0
8. Williams, Tigers	6.9
9. Knight, Wildcats	6.8
10. Crosswhite, Taipa.	6.7

Assists Per Game

Corey WILLIAMS
  Tigers
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 5.8

1. Williams, Tigers	5.8
2. Gibson, Blaze	5.6
3. Saville, Hawks	4.5
4. Carter, 36ers	4.4
5. Shannon, 36ers	4.3
6. Ervin, Hawks	4.2
7. Braswell, Breakers	4.1
8. Ubaka, Taipans	4.1
9. DeVries, 36ers	3.4
10. Holmes, 36ers	3.4

Steals Per Game

Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Martin, Wildcats	2.1
2. Crawford, Croco.	1.5
3. Saville, Hawks	1.5
4. Hill, 36ers	1.4
5. Braswell, Breakers	1.4
6. Williams, Tigers	1.3
7. Shannon, 36ers	1.3
8. Dorsey, Taipans	1.2
9. Carter, 36ers	1.2
10. Tovey, Wildcats	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Ater MAJOK
  Blaze
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 2

1. Majok, Wildcats	2.0
2. Ballinger, 36ers	2.0
3. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	1.9
4. Clark, Blaze	1.3
5. Nevill, Tigers	1.1
6. Worthington, Blaze	1.1
7. Crosswhite, Taipa.	1.1
8. Gilder, Sydney K.	1.1
9. Schenscher, Croco.	1.1
10. Sanders, Sydney K.	0.9

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Breakers		17-3
2. Wildcats		13-10
3. Crocodiles		12-8
4. Taipans		11-8
5. Hawks		10-11
6. Blaze		10-11
7. 36ers		8-12
8. Tigers		7-13
9. Sydney K.		4-16

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BAHRAIN

Standings

Premier League Standings

1. Nuwaidrat		1-0
2. Al Ahli		0-0
3. Al Hala		0-0
4. Al Ittihad		0-0
5. Al Manama		0-0
6. Issa Town		0-0
7. Muharraq		0-0
8. Sitra		0-1

Muharraq edge Isa Town - by Yousef Ahmed
MUHARRAQ overcame Isa Town's challenge with a comprehensive 87-78 victory in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League yesterday.
In their first match in the second round of the competition, which took place at Zain Basketball Arena in Um Al Hassam, both clubs were looking for a morale-boosting victory to remain on track. But it was Muharraq who proved the stronger side yesterday, thanks to Mohammed Abdulmajeed who topped scored yesterday with 25 points. Managed by Argentinean coach Guillermo Vecchio , Muharraq were also spearheaded by former NBA veteran Lamond Murray (201-F-73, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: California) (19 points), who made several defensive rebounds, besides veterans - captain Ahmed Al Doy, Yasser Bunaffoor and group of young players. Among those are Ahmed Al Durazi (19), Jassim Mohammed (10), Essa Ebrahim (11) and Ali Abbas (3).

Under their coach Ahmed Salman, Isa Town were heavily relying on their giant Boris Siakam of the US who made the bulk of scoring with 27 points. Isa Town were comprised besides local talents Ebrahim Al Khabbaz (10), Jehad Ahmed and Ahmed Qahiri (11 each), Sayed Hadi Habib (8), Aziz Qahiri and Ahmed Janahi (3).

League action continues tonight with one match between Manama and Al Hala, which is set to begin at 7.45pm at the same venue. Manama will head into this game with confidence after, having recently won the Bahrain Basketball Cup following a 2-0 victory over bitter rivals Al Ahli in the best-of-three finals. Under their coach Jason Rabedeaux of the US, Manama will be led by American professional Darius Rice who inspired his club to win the Cup for a record 14 times.

Rabiedeaux will also rely on Bahrain's national team trio - Mahmood Ghuloom, Ahmed Al Mutawa and Mohammed Hassan, besides a group of young talents like Hassan Naorooz, Ahmed Abdulaziz, Bader Abdulla and Ahmed Najaf. Al Hala, on the other hand, hope to end their string of poor results in the competition and move back on track in bid to finish in the top six and qualify for the main round. Coached by Saleh Al Haddad, Al Hala are presently seventh among 10 clubs with 13 points, just two ahead of bottom club Al Najma. The team in organise and white jerseys will have big ghopes on their American import Patrick Simpson besides veteran Bahraini Ahmed Malalla. Having back prominent playmaker Ahmed Ali, who recovered recently from injury, Al Hala also comprises a group of juniors playing their first season for the senior team like Hussain Murtada, Abbas Jawadi, Ahmed Hajji and Ali Abbas.

Source GDN By RAMI HULAYYEL , Posted on Thursday, February 17, 2011

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Ilmars BERGMANIS
  Zemgale
  (184-G-81)
  Avg: 19.1

1. Bergmanis, Zemgale	19.1
2. Jurevicus, Liepaja	19.0
3. Osby, TT.	18.6
4. Vasylius, Neptunas	16.8
5. Ilin, Barsy Atyrau	16.5
6. Parakhouski, VEF R.	16.0
7. Mitchell, Liepaja	15.8
8. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	15.6
9. Talts, TU/Rock	15.5
10. Juskevicius, Rudupis	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Bambale OSBY
  TTU/Kalev
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 11.5

1. Osby, TT.	11.5
2. Kieza, Juventus	10.2
3. Valeika, Valmiera	9.2
4. Dumbliauskas, Alytus A.	8.4
5. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	8.4
6. Cipruss, Valmiera	8.3
7. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.	8.2
8. Matulis, Sakalai	8.0
9. Cepukaitis, Juven.	7.8
10. Sarakauskas, Siauliai	7.7

Assists Per Game

Evaldas DAINYS
  Rudupis
  (180-G-82)
  Avg: 5.6

1. Dainys, Rudupis	5.6
2. Ezerskis, Techasas	5.3
3. Broadus, Siauliai	5.0
4. Varanauskas, Sakal.	4.9
5. Kriisa, TT.	4.8
6. Alijevas, Nevezis	4.6
7. Rinkevicius, Techasas	4.5
8. Viskontas, Perlas	4.4
9. Vasiliauskas, Aiscai K.	4.4
10. Gaidamaviciu., Norrko.	4.4

Steals Per Game

Rashaun BROADUS
  Siauliai
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Broadus, Siauliai	2.4
2. Leonavicius, Techa.	2.3
3. Hughes, VEF Riga	2.2
4. Dainys, Rudupis	1.9
5. Saage, Rakvere	1.9
6. Chunda, Barsy A.	1.9
7. Sirvydis, Sakalai	1.8
8. Leppik, TU/Rock	1.8
9. Vasylius, Neptunas	1.8
10. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	2.2
2. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.	1.8
3. Rozitis, Zemgale	1.8
4. Silinskis, Techasas	1.6
5. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	1.6
6. Cresnar, Nevezis	1.4
7. Parakhouski, VEF R.	1.2
8. Cepukaitis, Juven.	1.2
9. Osby, TT.	1.1
10. Cipruss, Valmiera	1.0

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Challenge Cup
1. Sakalai			0-0
2. Rakvere			0-0
3. Barsy Atyrau			0-0
4. Naglis-Adakris			0-0
Elite Division
1. VEF Riga			14-3
2. Ventspils			14-4
3. TU/Rock			12-6
4. Nevezis			12-7
5. Rudupis			12-8
6. Siauliai			12-8
7. Kalev/Cramo			10-8
8. Perlas			8-11
9. Norrkoping			7-11
10. Liepaja			5-12
11. TTU/Kalev			4-15
12. Valmiera			1-18
Challenge Cup
1. Aiscai Kaunas			6-3
2. Juventus			6-3
3. Techasas			5-4
4. Neptunas			5-4
5. Zemgale			4-5
6. Alytus Alita			1-8

Baltic League round 19 best performance: Valdas Vasylius - by Eurobasket News
Forward Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Neptunas Klaipeda, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 19.
The 27-year old player was the main contributor (19 points, eight rebounds and two assists) to his team's victory, helping them to outclass Aiscai Kaunas (#1, 6-3) with 29-point margin 100-71. Neptunas maintains the 4th position in Baltic League Challenge. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Neptunas will need more victories to improve their 5-4 record. Vasylius turned to be Neptunas' top player in his first season with the team. Former Old Dominion University star has very solid stats this year. Vasylius is in league's top in points (4th best: 16.8ppg) and averages impressive 59.8% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old Vytautas Sarakauskas (203-C-82) of Siauliai. Sarakauskas had a very good evening with a double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds. Of course he lead Siauliai to another comfortable win 85-69 over the higher-ranked Nevezis (#3, 12-6) being unquestionably team leader. Siauliai's 6th position in Elite has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 11-8 record is not bad and everything may still change. Sarakauskas is well-known at Siauliai and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was center Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) of Nevezis Kedainiai (#3). Dimsa scored 20 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Despite Dimsa's great performance Nevezis lost 69-85 to the lower-ranked Siauliai (#6, 11-8). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Nevezis needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams in Elite. Their record is 12 victories and 6 lost games. Dimsa has a very solid season. In 18 games in Baltic League he scored 14.8ppg. He also has 6.6rpg and FGP: 59.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) of Nevezis - 19 points and 9 rebounds
5. Ilmars Bergmanis (184-G-81) of Zemgale - 23 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86) of Ventspils - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Adas Juskevicius (194-G/F-89) of Rudupis - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87) of VEF Riga - 22 points and 6 rebounds
9. Mantas Ruikis (198-G/F-85) of Neptunas - 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Marius Valukonis (198-F-88) of Techasas - 24 points and 2 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)

Ventspils land Rob Lewin - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils signed deal with Rob Lewin (201-F-80, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Troy). The 30-year-old forward started the season in France. He tallied 11.5 points, 9.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game for Vichy. In January Rob Lewin moved to Germany. The forward joined Artland Dragons. He appeared in two games notching 6.0 points, 5.0 boards and 1.5 assists per game. Last season Rob Lewin played in France for Gravelines. His stats read 11.0 points and 6.7 boards in EuroChallenge. In ProA Rob Lewin produced 5.9 points and 4.5 boards with Gravelines. Rob Lewis also played in Canada, Sweden, Spain and USBL.

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BRAZIL

NBB Round 19: Change at the top of the standings - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with change at the leadership position, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

NBB round 19 caused change at the leadership position. Fifth defeat of league's leader Pinheiros/Sky (13-5) against tenth ranked Winner/Limeira (8-8) 71-67 was the most important game of the last round. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Pinheiros/Sky. The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 27-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Winner/Limeira moved-up to ninth place, which they share with S.Jose/Vinac. Pinheiros/Sky at the other side still keeps top position with five games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Unitri/Universo who have the same record. Pinheiros/Sky will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest and make it back to the top of the standings. Winner/Limeira will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Vivo/Franca in Sao Paulo.
NBB top team - Pinheiros/Sky (13-5) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifteenth ranked Assis Basket (3-14) 94-81. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Assis Basket. Pinheiros/Sky have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 13-5 record, which they share with Unitri/Universo. Assis Basket at the other side stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Pinheiros/Sky will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Assis Basket will play on the road against Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Sao Paulo was also quite interesting. Second ranked Unitri/Universo (13-5) played at the court of 6th ranked Vivo/Franca (10-6). Unitri/Universo defeated Vivo/Franca 93-83 on Sunday. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Unitri/Universo. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Pinheiros/Sky. Loser Vivo/Franca dropped to the seventh place with six games lost. Unitri/Universo will meet at home Vitoria (#14) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Vivo/Franca will play against Winner/Limeira (#10) and hope to secure a win.
Ninth-ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (8-8) was very close to win a game against fourth ranked Araldite/Univille (12-6) in Joinville. Araldite/Univille managed to secure only one-point victory 68-67. However their fans expected much easier game. Araldite/Univille maintains fourth place with 12-6 record. Sao Jose/Vinac lost their third game in a row. They keep the ninth position with eight games lost. Araldite/Univille's next round opponent will be Paulistano (#11) in Sao Paolo and are hoping to win another game. Sao Jose/Vinac will play at home against Araraquara.
Thirteenth-ranked Vila Velha CETAF (4-14) used its home court advantage to challenge seventh ranked Pitagoras/Minas (11-7) on Sunday. The visitors from Belo Horizonte managed to secure only two-point victory 73-71. However their fans expected much easier game. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Pitagoras/Minas. They moved-up to sixth place. Vila Velha CETAF lost their third game in a row. They keep the thirteenth position with 14 games lost. Pitagoras/Minas will face Itabom/Bauru (#8) in Sao Paulo in the next round. Vila Velha CETAF will play on the road against BRB/Brasilia (#5).

Other games in round 19 were not that significant. Flamengo beat Vitoria on the road 71-62. Itabom/Bauru won against Paulistano on its own court 77-66. Araraquara was outscored by Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro 97-72.

Vila Velha CETAF - Pitagoras/Minas 71-73

Thirteenth-ranked Vila Velha CETAF (4-14) used its home court advantage to challenge seventh ranked Pitagoras/Minas (11-7) on Sunday. The visitors from Belo Horizonte managed to secure only two-point victory 73-71. However their fans expected much easier game. The guests trailed by 9 points after three quarters before their 19-8 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Pitagoras/Minas. They moved-up to sixth place. Vila Velha CETAF lost their third game in a row. They keep the thirteenth position with 14 games lost. Pitagoras/Minas will face Itabom/Bauru (#8) in Sao Paulo in the next round. Vila Velha CETAF will play on the road against BRB/Brasilia (#5).

Vitoria - Flamengo 62-71

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked Flamengo (12-4) beat 14th ranked Vitoria (4-14) in Vit�ria 71-62 on Sunday. Vitoria trailed by 13 points at halftime and as many as 15 after three quarters before a 24-18 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 62-71 at the end of the game. The victory was the third consecutive win for Flamengo. They moved-up to third place. Newly promoted Vitoria dropped to the thirteenth position with 14 games lost. Flamengo will face bottom-ranked Assis Basket (#15) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Vitoria will play against the league's leader Unitri/Universo in Uberlandia.

Assis Basket - Pinheiros/Sky 81-94

NBB top team - Pinheiros/Sky (13-5) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifteenth ranked Assis Basket (3-14) 94-81. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Assis Basket. Assis Basket was ahead by 3 points after three quarters before a 32-16 charge of Pinheiros/Sky, which allowed them to win the game. Pinheiros/Sky have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 13-5 record, which they share with Unitri/Universo. Assis Basket at the other side stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Pinheiros/Sky will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Assis Basket will play on the road against Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Itabom/Bauru - Paulistano 77-66

Rather expected game when 11th ranked Paulistano (5-13) lost to eighth ranked Itabom/Bauru (10-7) in Sao Paulo 66-77 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Itabom/Bauru. Paulistano was better in fourth quarter 22-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Itabom/Bauru maintains eighth place with 10-7 record. Paulistano lost their fifth game in a row. They keep the eleventh position with 13 games lost. Itabom/Bauru will face higher ranked Pitagoras/Minas (#6) in Belo Horizonte in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Paulistano will play at home against Araldite/Univille (#4) in Joinville.

Araldite/Univille - S.Jose/Vinac 68-67

Ninth-ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (8-8) was very close to win a game against fourth ranked Araldite/Univille (12-6) in Joinville. Araldite/Univille managed to secure only one-point victory 68-67. However their fans expected much easier game. Sao Jose/Vinac cut a 13-point halftime deficit to one at the end of the game. Araldite/Univille maintains fourth place with 12-6 record. Sao Jose/Vinac lost their third game in a row. They keep the ninth position with eight games lost. Araldite/Univille's next round opponent will be Paulistano (#11) in Sao Paolo and are hoping to win another game. Sao Jose/Vinac will play at home against Araraquara.

Vivo/Franca - Unitri/Universo 83-93

The game in Sao Paulo was also quite interesting. Second ranked Unitri/Universo (13-5) played at the court of 6th ranked Vivo/Franca (10-6). Unitri/Universo defeated Vivo/Franca 93-83 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 34-11 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Unitri/Universo. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Pinheiros/Sky. Loser Vivo/Franca dropped to the seventh place with six games lost. Unitri/Universo will meet at home Vitoria (#14) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Vivo/Franca will play against Winner/Limeira (#10) and hope to secure a win.

Round 12

Winner/Limeira - Pinheiros/Sky 71-67

NBB round 19 caused change at the leadership position. Fifth defeat of league's leader Pinheiros/Sky (13-5) against tenth ranked Winner/Limeira (8-8) 71-67 was the most important game of the last round. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Pinheiros/Sky. The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 27-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Winner/Limeira moved-up to ninth place, which they share with S.Jose/Vinac. Pinheiros/Sky at the other side still keeps top position with five games lost. They were joined at the leadership position by Unitri/Universo who have the same record. Pinheiros/Sky will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest and make it back to the top of the standings. Winner/Limeira will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Vivo/Franca in Sao Paulo.

Round 17

Flamengo - Araraquara 97-72

Very predictable result when fifth ranked Flamengo (12-4) rolled over 12th ranked Araraquara (4-13) in Rio de Janeiro 97-72 on Wednesday. The victory was the third consecutive win for Flamengo. They moved-up to third place. Araraquara lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the twelfth position with 13 games lost. Flamengo will face bottom-ranked Assis Basket (#15) at home in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Araraquara will play against Sao Jose/Vinac.

Paraiso Basketball sign PF Wanderson Muniz - by Paulo Freire
In order to qualify for the next phase of the Brazil Cup, Paraiso Basketball will debut the new signing player on the next round of the competition.
Wanderson Muniz, best known as B.A. Muniz (202-C-75) a former player of the Metodista/Sao Bernardo, one athlete with a lot of strength in the post and reconize by his hustle.
The 6'8 powerfoward has played for team from Sao Paulo State and from the south of Brazil.
The player arrives at a crunch time in the competition for the team who are now at the sixth place so far and is looking for a better ranking among the four teams to reach the playoffs for this phase of the Brazil Cup.

B.A. only played 17 games for Sao Bernardo on the last Paulista State Championship averaging 1.5 ppg and 0.5 rpg

Sorocaba sign young prospect back - by Paulo Freire
The Sorocaba L.S.B. / Objetivo / Flextronics sign on Wednesday (Feb. 16), the return of shootinguard Alex Marques, 17 years old and 1m98 heigh, who began his career on the club of Sorocaba city, and then moved to S.E. Palmeiras, where he remained for three years and took the Paulista State Championship U-15.

The new reinforcement will play in the Brazil Cup - 2011 and also in the Youth U-18 Championships.

'We are proud to rescue an athlete from the city and most important with a great level to play. I'll use him much, both in the Pro team and in youth basics teams, ' said Head Coach Rinaldo Rodrigues.

'I am very happy that our players who are playing outside in other clubs, want to return, this means that they are seeing a promising future in the Sorocaba Basketball team,' added the coach.

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings

1. Unitri/Universo		13-5
2. Pinheiros/Sky		13-5
3. Flamengo		12-4
4. Araldite/Univille		12-6
5. BRB/Brasilia		11-4
6. Pitagoras/Minas		11-7
7. Vivo/Franca		10-6
8. Itabom/Bauru		10-7
9. S.Jose/Vinac		8-8
10. Winner/Limeira		8-8
11. Paulistano		5-13
12. Araraquara		4-13
13. Vila Velha CETAF		4-14
14. Vitoria		4-14
15. Assis Basket		3-14

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

BULGARIA

Rosen Barchovski is the new head coach of Rilski Sportist - by Christomir Rackov
Rosen Barchovski (agency: Interperformances ) is the new head coach of Rilski Sportist. He will replace Aleksandar Todorov (agency: Global Sports Plaza ) who is leaving the team.
For two and a half years under Todorov Rilski had the best success in its history. The team won the first edition of EUROHOLD Balkan league in 2009 and in 2010 finished second for the Cup of Bulgaria.
Barchovski is currently head coach of Bulgaria Men NT. He will continue to be and also will lead Rilski Sportist until the end of the season. His first game in charge of Rilski will be on tuesday when the team will play Mornar in its last game in Group B of EUROHOLD Balkan league.
Interesting fact is that at the moment Barchovski is in Pravets for a training camp with a few players projected for the national team this summer and on Saturday this players will have a friendly game against Rilski Sportist.

Rilski Sportist and Aleksandar Todorov split up - by Valentin Anguelov
Aleksandar Todorov (agency: Global Sports Plaza ) and Rilski Sportist split up as Macedonian coach will not seat at the bench of Bulgarian team anymore. National team coach Rosen Barchovski replaces Todorov until the end of 2010/11 season. Both, club and coach Todorov agreed on that earlier today as Macedonian will travel for specialization in United States.

Todorov arrived in Samokov in the summer of 2008 and began the most successful era in the history of the Rilski Sportist. In his first season the club won the first edition of Balkan League and in the tournament for the cup of Bulgaria Rilski Sportist completed fourth spot. Past season team from Samokov played for the first time in the final of the Cup, where they finished second behind Levski Sofia.

Under guidance of Todorov Rilski Sportist achieved several victories against Lukoil Academic and Levski, something unthinkable before.

This coming Saturday Rilski Sportist will play against Bulgarian National Team in friendly game and they will be lead by Todorov assistants Bozhidar Gyorev and Borislav Trifonov. On Monday, the team will travell to Montenegro where on Tuesday (February 22) will play against Mornar in very important game from Balkan League.

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

CANADA

Third quarter rally not enough for the Bisons as they fall 103-76 to #4 Trinity Western in men's basketball - by Eurobasket News
Written by: Sean Angus
Despite a valiant third quarter comeback attempt by the Manitoba Bisons mens basketball team, the Bisons still fell to the Trinity Western Spartans 103-76 on Saturday, February 12 at the Investors Group Athletic Centre.

After the loss, the Bisons record falls to 9-13 on the season, still good enough for seventh place in the Canada West conference. Trinity Western, who came into this game first ranked fourth in the country, had their way with the Bisons on Saturday night and move to 21-3, in their final game of the season. They are now first place in the Canada West conference.

These two teams met Friday night in a game that did not go much better for the Bisons. They fell 101-68 to the powerhouse from southern British Columbia.

The first quarter did not treat the Bisons well at all. The Spartans came out storming, grabbing the early lead and never letting go. The Spartans excelled in all facets of the game and by the end of the first quarter, they led 38-9.

The Bisons offense finally got something going in the second quarter. Both teams went stride for stride and each ended up scoring 22 points in the quarter. Even with the surge of offense, the Bisons still trailed by a considerable margin.

While the Spartans were in the midst of wiping out their opponent, Sean Maxwell (197-F) of the Bisons was putting together an incredible performance. The senior forward had an astounding 33 points on the game and did his part in the trenches as well, recording five total rebounds, tied for the most out of any Bisons player. Maxwell was named player of the game.

The third quarter saw shades of a possible comeback. The Bisons, who trailed by 29 going into clawed their way back and cut the Spartan lead to nine at one point in the third quarter. However, the Spartans finished the quarter strong and came out of it with a 78-64 lead.

In the fourth quarter the Bisons watched their comeback hopes dwindle away as the Spartans regained their offensive spark and ended up winning the game 103-76.

After the game Bisons head coach, Kirby Schepp, blamed Saturdays loss on a poor start. The atmosphere on the bench was dead in the first quarter, we didnt come out to play and they blew us out of the water, Shepp said. In the second half we played a lot tougher but against a team like this, we have to put in a full 40 minutes.

For the Spartans, Calvin Westbrook (193-G-88, college: Cal.St.-Stanislaus) and Tristan Smith led the way, each scoring 24 points. The key for Trinity Western was their shooting percentage. They made over half their attempts, going 55.4 per cent.

The Bisons will try to redeem themselves and secure a post-season berth next weekend when they travel to Regina to take on the Cougars in the final regular season games of the 2010-11 season on Feb. 18-19.
Courtesy of: http://gobisons.ca

Brock men's basketball drops 83-80 decision to Guelph - by Eurobasket News
ST. CATHARINES, Ont. - The Brock University men's basketball team (8-13 OUA West) lost for the sixth straight time Wednesday night dropping an 83-80 decision to the Guelph Gryphons.

Brock trailed by five points at the half 40-35.

In the opening five minutes of the third quarter, the Badgers put together a 20-5 run leading 55-45 with 4:27 left. Over the next four minutes, Brock's defense would fall asleep as the Gryphons would answer with a 14-8 run, including back-to-back three pointers in the final 38 seconds, to cut the lead to just four points after thirty minutes 63-59.

In the opening two and a half minutes of the fourth quarter, the Gryphons would go on a 7-2 run to regain the lead 66-65 with 8:34 left in regulation.

With the score tied 69-69, with 7:10 remaining in the final quarter, both teams would go cold from the field as the Gryphons shot a dismal (27.3%) 3-for-11 while Brock was even worse at 23.1% (3-for-13) including 0-for-5 from beyond the arc.

Brock's Andrew Kraus (188-G-86) (Markham, Ont.) would tie the game 80-80 knocking down two free throws with 34 seconds left on the clock. Guelph's Dan McCarthy would answer right back getting the easy lay in at the other end to take an 82-80 lead with 22 seconds left.

With a chance to tie it and send it to overtime, Brock would go for the win, but Kraus' three would fall short right into the hands of McCarthy with 5.3 seconds left.

McCarthy would miss the first free throw and drain the second to make it a three-point game 83-80. Once again with a chance to tie it, Kraus would miss a three-pointer at the buzzer giving the Badgers just one last life left of a possible playoff spot.

Guelph was led by Jonathan Moscatelli (193-G-86) (24 points) and McCarthy (23 points) who combined for 47 of the Gryphons 83 points including the final 19. McCarthy also registered 13 rebounds for the double-double. Kareem Malcolm and Kevin Cameron added 13 and 11 points respectively.

Brock had four players in double figures led by Kraus who recorded 20 points, five rebounds and five assists despite going 0-for-5 from downtown and collecting eight turnovers. Freshman Cedric Kasongo (Welland, Ont.) contributed with 17 points including 5-for-9 from beyond the arc. Senior Mike Cruickshank (Toronto, Ont.) and junior Mark Gibson (Toronto, Ont.) chipped in with 13 and 12 points respectively in the loss.

Brock shot 46.0% (29-for-63) from the field including 37.5% (9-for-24) from three-point range. The Gryphons connected on 41.3% (26-for-63) which included 42.3% (11-for-26) from downtown. Guelph was also 80.0% (20-for-25) from the charity stripe to the Badgers 65.0% (13-for-20).
Courtesy of: http://gobadgers.ca

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

CHINA

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

Charles GAINES
  Qingdao DS
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 32.5

1. Gaines, Qingdao DS	32.5
2. Morris, Beijing	29.3
3. Douby, Xinjiang	29.1
4. Rodgers, Shanxi Zh.	28.3
5. James, Zhejiang C.	27.9
6. Emmett, Fujian	27.6
7. Williams, Zhejiang C.	27.3
8. Akognon, DongGuan	25.6
9. Harris, Shanghai	25.1
10. Marbury, Foshan	24.9

Rebounds Per Game

Dwayne JONES
  Fujian
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 16.3

1. Jones, Fujian	16.3
2. Harris, Shanghai	14.8
3. Benson, TianJin R.	14.6
4. Gaines, Qingdao DS	14.3
5. Ramos, Zhejiang.	13.8
6. Watkins, Jilin	13.7
7. Oyedeji, Foshan	12.7
8. Moiso, Jiangsu	12.6
9. Morris, Beijing	11.5
10. Taggart, Shanxi Zh.	11.5

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLAS
  Shanxi Zh.
  (199-G-79)
  Avg: 9.1

1. Daghlas, Shanxi Zh.	9.1
2. Marbury, Foshan	6.5
3. Hu, Jiangsu	5.7
4. Vroman, DongGuan	5.2
5. Lu, Fujian	5.2
6. Brown, Qingdao DS	5.1
7. Green, Shanghai	4.8
8. Allen, Shandong	4.8
9. LiuWei, Shanghai	4.8
10. Douby, Xinjiang	4.6

Steals Per Game

XueFeng HU
  Jiangsu
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 4.1

1. Hu, Jiangsu	4.1
2. Douby, Xinjiang	3.4
3. Hudson, Guandong	3.3
4. Vroman, DongGuan	2.9
5. Emmett, Fujian	2.6
6. James, Zhejiang C.	2.6
7. Akognon, DongGuan	2.5
8. Zhong, Jilin	2.3
9. Gaines, Qingdao DS	2.3
10. Brown, Qingdao DS	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Herve LAMIZANA
  TianJin R.
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Lamizana, TianJ.	3.6
2. Watkins, Jilin	2.1
3. Jones, Fujian	1.9
4. Moiso, Jiangsu	1.9
5. Haislip, Guandong	1.8
6. Wang, Bayi	1.7
7. Boone, Zhejiang C.	1.7
8. Zhang, Shanghai	1.7
9. Vroman, DongGuan	1.6
10. Singleton, Xinjiang	1.5

Chinese CBA round 24 best performance: Charles Gaines - by Eurobasket News
American forward Charles Gaines (201-F-81, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Qingdao DS, receiving a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
The 29-year old player had a double-double of 42 points and 19 rebounds, while his team edged out Fujian (#16, 5-18) in overtime 110-109. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Qingdao DS is placed at 12th position in Chinese CBA. Qingdao DS is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 9-13 record. Gaines turned to be Qingdao DS's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Southern Mississippi star has very solid stats this year. Gaines is league's best scorer averaging so far 32.5ppg. Gaines is in league's top in rebounds (4th best: 14.3rpg) and averages impressive 2.3spg and 60.8% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old American Quincy Douby (191-G-84) of league's leader Xinjiang. Douby had a very good evening with 49 points and 6 rebounds. Of course Xinjiang cruised to a 113-103 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Jiangsu (#7, 12-10). Of course Xinjiang still keep the league's top spot. His team belongs to top of the standings with 21-1 record and is considered one of the main candidates for the league title. Douby is a newcomer at Xinjiang, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 29.1ppg (#3). His other stats are also decent: 4.3rpg and 4.6apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-C-79) of Bayi (#4). Wang got into 30-points club by scoring 38 points in the last round. He went also for fifteen rebounds . He was a key player of Bayi, leading his team to a 107-104 win against slightly lower-ranked Beijing (#6, 12-10). Bayi needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 10 lost games. Wang has a very solid season. In 22 games in China he scored 22.1ppg. He also has 9.0rpg, 1.7bpg and FGP: 54.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) of Zhejiang G.L. - 35 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Osama Daghlas (199-G-79) of Shanxi Zh. - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 19 assists
6. Andre Emmett (196-G/F-82) of Fujian - 38 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Leon Rodgers (199-F-80) of Shanxi Zh. - 39 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Anthony Myles (208-F/C-82) of Liaoning - 25 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Stephon Marbury (187-G-77) of Foshan - 25 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
10. Mike Harris (198-F-83) of Shanghai - 26 points and 12 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)

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

DENMARK

Naestved Beats Aalborg to Maintain Position in Table - by Armen Rhodes
Team FOG Naestved knocked off the Aalborg Vikings at home today 88-73 to improve their record to 16-7 overall, and maintain their position in third place in the CDL table this year.

Naestved was led by 20 points from top scorer Lee Roberts.

Meanwhile, Aalborg drops to 3-21 on the year, and 0-1 under new head coach John Staudt.

The Vikings were led by a valiant performance from point guard Marquis Hall, who poured in 26 points in a losing effort.

Both teams are back in action this weekend, with Naestved set to clash with Horsholm and Aalborg playing host to SISU Copenhagen.

Standings - Basketligaen

Ligaen Standings

1. Bakken		22-1
2. Svendborg		21-2
3. Naestved		16-7
4. Horsholm		14-9
5. Horsens IC		12-11
6. SISU		9-15
7. Vaerlose		8-15
8. Aabyhoj		8-16
9. Amager BK		4-20
10. Aalborg		3-21

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Thomas SOLTAU
  SISU
  (210-F-82)
  Avg: 22.8

1. Soltau, SISU	22.8
2. Brasas, Amager BK	22.4
3. Morris, Aabyhoj	22.3
4. Johnson, Bakken	21.6
5. Hall, Aalborg	21.1
6. Colas, Vaerlose	19.6
7. Roberts, Naestved	19.2
8. Iversen, Svendborg	18.8
9. Dennis, SISU	17.7
10. Claitt, Horsens IC	16.9

Rebounds Per Game

Lee ROBERTS
  Naestved
  (201-F/C-87)
  Avg: 13

1. Roberts, Naestved	13.0
2. Colas, Vaerlose	10.4
3. Morris, Aabyhoj	10.2
4. Falkner, Aalborg	9.5
5. Johansen, Naestved	9.5
6. St.John, Horsens IC	9.5
7. Soltau, SISU	8.8
8. Williams, Svendborg	7.7
9. Johnson, Bakken	7.1
10. Burgess, Bakken	7.0

Assists Per Game

D.J. SMEDLEY
  Naestved
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Smedley, Naestved	6.3
2. Claitt, Horsens IC	5.6
3. Hall, Aalborg	4.9
4. Dennis, SISU	4.8
5. Nielsen, Horsholm	4.1
6. Burgess, Bakken	4.0
7. Martin, Aabyhoj	3.8
8. Darboe, Svendborg	3.8
9. Jensen, Vaerlose	3.6
10. McFarlane, Vaerl.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Marquis HALL
  Aalborg
  (183-G-87)
  Avg: 4

1. Hall, Aalborg	4.0
2. Kristiansen, Aalborg	2.2
3. Dennis, SISU	2.1
4. Jakobsen, Bakken	2.0
5. Nielsen, Horsholm	2.0
6. Roberts, Naestved	1.9
7. Nielsen, SISU	1.9
8. Smedley, Naestved	1.8
9. Burgess, Bakken	1.8
10. Colman, Svendborg	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Edward MORRIS
  Aabyhoj
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Morris, Aabyhoj	2.3
2. Christoffers., Bak.	1.6
3. Blackmon, Horsholm	1.6
4. Colas, Vaerlose	1.5
5. Roberts, Naestved	1.2
6. St.John, Horsens IC	0.9
7. Johnson, Bakken	0.8
8. Logan, Amager BK	0.8
9. Johansen, Naestved	0.7
10. McGinn, Aalborg	0.7

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

D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

Central Division
1. Iowa E.		25-10
2. Erie Bay H.		23-9
3. Ft.Wayne MA		14-19
4. Dakota W.		11-24
5. Sioux Falls S.		6-25
Southwest Division
1. Tulsa 66ers		24-10
2. Rio Grande		23-11
3. Texas L.		16-18
4. Austin T.		14-19
5. Maine RC		14-21
6. New Mexico		14-21
West Division
1. Reno Bighorns		22-12
2. Bakersfield J.		21-13
3. Utah F.		18-15
4. Idaho S.		14-19
5. Springfield A.		10-23

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Trey JOHNSON
  Toronto R.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 26

1. Johnson, Bakersfi.	26.0
2. Jeffers, Iowa E.	21.4
3. Johnson, Erie B.	20.8
4. Alexander, Texas L.	19.7
5. Adrien, Rio Grande	19.4
6. Dentmon, Texas L.	19.1
7. Byars, Bakersfi.	18.9
8. McNeal, Rio Grande	18.8
9. Sims, Maine RC	18.0
10. Tucker, New Mexico	17.9

Rebounds Per Game

Jeff ADRIEN
  Rio Grande
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Adrien, Rio Grande	12.2
2. Davidson, Idaho S.	10.1
3. Sims, Iowa E.	9.8
4. Johnson, Dakota W.	9.6
5. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	9.5
6. Alexander, Texas L.	9.5
7. Williams, Texas L.	9.5
8. Brackins, Spring.	9.1
9. Jeffers, Iowa E.	8.9
10. Williams, Tulsa 66ers	8.6

Assists Per Game

Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Stinson, Iowa E.	9.2
2. Daniels, Texas L.	8.9
3. Miles, Reno Bighorns	8.7
4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	7.7
5. Jackson, Idaho S.	7.5
6. Jackson, Erie B.	6.6
7. Ahearn, Erie Bay H.	6.4
8. Reynolds, Spring.	6.2
9. Johnson, Austin T.	5.8
10. Wise, Bakersfield J.	5.6

Steals Per Game

Aaron MILES
  Reno Bighorns
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Miles, Reno Bighorns	2.5
2. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers	2.5
3. Lin, Reno Bighorns	2.3
4. Lofton, Iowa E.	2.3
5. Jackson, Erie B.	2.1
6. Jeffers, Iowa E.	2.1
7. Greene, Utah F.	2.1
8. Reynolds, Spring.	2.0
9. Lafayette, Ft.Wayne.	2.0
10. Linhart, Erie B.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sean WILLIAMS
  Texas L.
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Williams, Texas L.	3.1
2. Johnson, Dakota W.	2.8
3. N''Diaye, Dakota W.	2.6
4. Alabi, Erie Bay H.	2.5
5. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers	2.4
6. Whiteside, Reno B.	2.2
7. Naymick, Bakersfi.	2.2
8. Sykes, Sioux F.	1.9
9. Pittman, Sioux F.	1.7
10. O''Bryant, Reno B.	1.7

Wednesday's games - by Eurobasket News
Idaho S. - Bakersfield J. 113-102
Jermareo Davidson (6'10''-F-84, college: Alabama) had 19 points, 20 rebounds and three blocked shots as the Idaho Stampede won their fourth game in a row in a 113-102 victory against the Bakersfield Jam (21-13) on Wednesday night at Qwest Arena. It was the team's fourth straight game notching 113 points or more and brings Idaho to within five games of a .500 record (14-19). The Stampede shot 50.0 percent from the field and collected 53 rebounds in the win. Idaho held the Jam to just 38.6 percent (17-of-44) shooting in the second half, as the home team won the last two quarters 60-51. Armon Johnson (6'3''-G-89, college: Nevada) scored a game-high 27 points on 12-of-20 shooting, while Antoine Walker delivered with 21 points, eight rebounds and two blocks and Sean Banks contributed 19 points and five rebounds. Jeremy Wise led Bakersfield with 25 points, while Willie Warren (eight rebounds, six assists) and Brandon Wallace (7-8 FG) each had 18 points off the bench. Bakersfield made 12-of-27 (44.4 percent) three-pointers, but committed 15 turnovers that led to 26 Stampede points. Tonight's game was the first of five home games in a row against the Jam. They return to Qwest Arena on Feb. 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. Idaho plays in Utah on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. in their first action after the All-Star break. *Courtesy of www.kboi2.com

Utah F. - Dakota W. 103-93
So this is how Utah Flash coach Kevin Young imagined it would be like. Kevin Kruger running the point, knocking down clutch free throws. Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, college: La-Lafayette) slicing and dicing his way inside. Brandon Costner doing a little of everything. It's taken awhile, but the Utah Flash are starting to come together. The Flash extended their winning streak to four games with a 103-93, win over the Dakota Wizards on Wednesday night in Orem. Between injuries and NBA call-ups, the Flash have written their lineup in pencil, but now that Utah begins the stretch run for the season, the Flash are clicking at the right time. Costner matched his season-high with 23 points and Kruger made four straight free throws in the final minute and Greene capped off the win with a breakaway dunk that finished off Dakota. Kruger had been out for 14 games with an ankle injury and Greene was called up by the New Jersey Nets, but since both players returned, the Flash haven't lost. 'The last four games is the first time we've had the first time we've had this group that we've had in its entirety,' said Flash coach Kevin Young. 'We had two huge road wins at Tulsa, who was at the time was the No.1 team in the league and now winning these two at home. I do like this group a lot as we move forward.' Utah led just 76-72 early in the fourth quarter when Andre Ingram sank a 3-pointer. Mike Anderson spun down the key and hammered down a dunk for Dakota the keep the Wizards close. Costner answered for Utah. He hit a 3-pointer and Ingram knocked down another three to give Utah a 92-80 lead with 4:30 left in the game, but Dakota rallied behind Javaris Crittenton (6'5''-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) 's 25 points. Dakota cut the lead to 96-93 with 1:15 left in the game. But that's when Kruger stepped up to make four straight free throws to help Utah's winning streak continue. Kruger and Ingram each finished with 16 points. Greene had 13 and Brian Hamilton added 10 points. Jordan Brady scored eight points in 15 minutes of work. Utah is on 18-15 on the year. 'This is the team that we thought we would have. The funny thing about our league is we're content with the team we have right now, but someone could get a call-up tomorrow and that could change that dynamics,' Young said. 'If we can keep this team and keep improving and keep our chemistry, I like our chances down the stretch.' The Flash will be back in action again on Monday against Idaho in the UCCU Center. *Courtesy of www.heraldextra.com

Sioux Falls S. - Tulsa 66ers 98-121
The Tulsa 66ers defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 121-98 at the Sioux Falls Arena on Wednesday night. Tulsa shot 56.1 percent (46-of-82) from the field and had eight players in double figures in a game that was rescheduled from Dec. 11 due to inclement weather. Sioux Falls (6-25) held a one-point lead (29-28) after the opening quarter but Tulsa outscored Sioux Falls 37-20 in the second quarter to take a 65-49 halftime lead. Latavious Williams (6'8''-F-91) and Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) came of the bench to score 11 and 10 points, respectively. Tulsa (24-10) pushed the lead to as many as 22 points in the third quarter and Sioux Falls would get no closer than 18 points (103-85) in the final quarter to remain winless against the 66ers in three tries. Robert Vaden scored 20 points on 6-of-9 shooting (3-of-4 3-pointers) to pace the 66ers. He was joined in double figures by Tweety Carter (15), Williams (15), Elijah Millsap (14), Dyson (12), Marcus Lewis (12), Byron Mullens (12) and NBA Development League All-Star Larry Owens (10). NBA D-League All-Star Patrick Ewing, Jr. posted his sixth straight double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds. Sean Marshall scored 19 points while Maureece Rice added 18. Both teams are off this weekend for the 2011 NBA D-League All-Star Game in Los Angeles on Saturday at 4 p.m. CT on NBA TV. Sioux Falls visits Iowa on Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m. CT. Tulsa hosts Erie on the same night at 7 p.m. CT. *Courtesy of www.keloland.com

Rio Grande - Austin T. 99-111
James Anderson (6'6''-G-89, college: Oklahoma St.) scored 23 points and the Austin Toros downed the Rio Grande Valley Vipers 111-99 on Wednesday night. The Vipers (23-11) lost a second straight game for the first time since Dec. 26-27, despite Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette) 's 25 points and Jeff Adrien's 16 points and career-high 18 rebounds. The Toros (14-19) led by as many as 12 points in the second quarter, but the Vipers closed the second quarter on a 16-7 run. The Vipers took a 90-89 lead when Adrien hit a jumper with 7:10 to go in the fourth quarter, but an Anderson basket gave the lead back to the Toros, then Carldell Johnson hit a pair of free throws to make it 93-90. Adrien brought the Vipers within one with a slam, but Lance Thomas and Anderson hit jumpers to make it 97-92. *Courtesy of www.statesman.com

Bighorns trade Alton Ford to Erie for 2011 draft pick - by Eurobasket News
The Reno Bighorns signed and traded Alton Ford (6'10''-C-81, college: Houston) to the Erie Bayhawks yesterday for a 2011 7th round draft pick.

Ford, a 6-9, 275-pound forward from the University of Houston, last played for Reno during the 2008-09 season. In 36 games between Reno and Rio Grande Valley that season, Ford averaged 9.6 points and 6.9 rebounds per game.

The draft pick now gives Reno a full complement of eight picks in the 2011 D-League Draft.

The Bighorns are currently enjoying the All-Star break. Fans can watch Bighorns forward Marcus Landry compete in the Three-Point Contest during the 2011 Dream Factory Friday Night presented by Haier, which will stream live online at 8 p.m. PT this Friday night at nba.com/dleague.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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ESTONIA

Juan Wyatt travels to Estonia - by Eurobasket News
Voru KK decided to strengthen their frontcourt. The Estonian team signed a deal with Juan Wyatt (203-F-84, college: Alcorn St.). The 26-year-old forward spent pre-season with Wolk Pack in ABI. He never signed a deal. In 2008/09 season Juan Wyatt played in Portugal. The forward averaged 10.8 points and 1.6 assists per game for Sampaense. Juan Wyatt participated in Portuguese All-Star Game. Juan Wyatt was named Post Player of the Year in 2005 and 2007 when playing for Alcorn State University basketball team. Juan Wyatt has already debuted for Voru KK. He grabbed 2 rebounds in just three minutes of action against Parnu.

EMKL Round 25: Leader Kalev/Cramo gets another victory - by Eurobasket News
Leader Kalev/Cramo delivered the twentieth third win on Sunday night. This time they beat 5th ranked Valga/CKE (10-13) 92-83. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Valga/CKE. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Valga/CKE won third quarter 25-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kalev/Cramo dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Valga/CKE's 34. Kalev/Cramo forced 19 Valga/CKE turnovers. American center Michael Dunigan (208-89, college: Oregon, agency: N.E.T.) fired 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. International forward Kaido Saks (205-86) chipped in 14 points. American forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) produced a double-double by scoring 30 points and 10 rebounds for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Kalev/Cramo (23-3) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place. Valga/CKE at the other side keeps the fifth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Rapla. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn TTU/Kalev II.
Leader Kalev/Cramo recorded the twentieth third victory. This time they crushed 9th ranked Voru KK (1-25) 102-67. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Kaido Saks (205-86) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 26 points and 14 rebounds. Mihkel Schleicher contributed with 11 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Kalev/Cramo's coach Aivar Kuusmaa felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. American guard Curtis Allen (193-85, college: ORU) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists for Voru KK. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Kalev/Cramo. They maintain first place with 23-3 record. Voru KK lost their twelfth game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 25 lost games. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn TTU/Kalev II.

In the last two games of round 25 Parnu defeated Voru KK in a road game 84-75. TU/Rock smashed TTU/Kalev II at home 100-74.

Voru KK - Parnu 75-84

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 9th ranked Voru KK's (1-25) home loss to eighth ranked KK Parnu (6-19) 75-84. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Voru KK won third quarter 23-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. KK Parnu forced 25 Voru KK turnovers. Strangely Voru KK outrebounded KK Parnu 48-28 including a 22-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. Voru KK was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Toomas Raadik (198-90) who helped to win the game recording 27 points. Swingman Rannar Raap (187-92) contributed with 20 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. American guard Curtis Allen (193-85, college: ORU) answered with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Silver Kuuba (198-74) added 12 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Voru KK. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. KK Parnu maintains eighth place with 6-19 record. Voru KK lost their twelfth game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 25 lost games. KK Parnu will play against higher ranked TTU/Kalev (#3) in Tallinn in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Voru KK will play at home against TTU/Kalev (#3) in Tallinn to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Parnu: T.Raadik 27+3reb+1ast, R.Raap 20+7reb+3ast, R.Karner 17+3reb, T.Hamarsalu 13+5reb+1ast, M.Paasoja 6+4reb, J.Larionov 1+1reb
Voru KK: C.Allen 24+12reb+4ast, S.Kuuba 12+6reb+1ast, A.Velleramm 12+7reb, T.Kimask 10+5reb, M.Niklus 9+6reb+1ast, R.Raudsepp 4+3reb+1ast

Valga/CKE - Kalev/Cramo 83-92

Leader Kalev/Cramo delivered the twentieth third win on Sunday night. This time they beat 5th ranked Valga/CKE (10-13) 92-83. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Valga/CKE. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Valga/CKE won third quarter 25-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kalev/Cramo dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Valga/CKE's 34. Kalev/Cramo forced 19 Valga/CKE turnovers. American center Michael Dunigan (208-89, college: Oregon, agency: N.E.T.) fired 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. International forward Kaido Saks (205-86) chipped in 14 points. American forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) produced a double-double by scoring 30 points and 10 rebounds and guard Timo Oja (182-87) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Kalev/Cramo (23-3) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place. Valga/CKE at the other side keeps the fifth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Rapla. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn TTU/Kalev II.
Top scorers:
Kalev/Cramo: M.Dunigan 15+7reb, M.Riis 14+5reb, K.Saks 14+4reb+1ast, A.Skele 11+1reb+3ast, G.Arbet 8+2reb+2ast, K.Orula 8
Valga/CKE: A.Brown 30+10reb+2ast, T.Oja 10+6reb+1ast, R.Petersonig 10+1reb+3ast, K.Koolman 10+4reb, D.Winston 8+2ast, A.Vasar 7+2reb+2ast

Voru KK - Kalev/Cramo 67-102

Leader Kalev/Cramo recorded the twentieth third victory. This time they crushed 9th ranked Voru KK (1-25) 102-67. The game without a history. Kalev/Cramo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Kalev/Cramo forced 27 Voru KK turnovers and had a 22-10 advantage in offensive rebounds. Voru KK was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Kaido Saks (205-86) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 26 points and 14 rebounds. Center Mihkel Schleicher (201-93) contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Four Kalev/Cramo players scored in double figures. Kalev/Cramo's coach Aivar Kuusmaa felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. American guard Curtis Allen (193-85, college: ORU) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Silver Kuuba (198-74) added 8 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Voru KK. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Kalev/Cramo. They maintain first place with 23-3 record. Voru KK lost their twelfth game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 25 lost games. Kalev/Cramo's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Tallinn TTU/Kalev II.
Top scorers:
Kalev/Cramo: K.Saks 26+14reb, K.Kitsing 17+3reb, K.Orula 12+2reb+1ast, M.Schleicher 11+13reb, A.Skele 8+2reb, T.Sokk 8+2reb+8ast
Voru KK: C.Allen 22+13reb+4ast, M.Niklus 12+4reb, T.Kimask 10+2reb+1ast, V.Feliks 8+3reb+1ast, S.Kuuba 8+10reb, A.Velleramm 7+2reb+3ast

TU/Rock - TTU/Kalev II 100-74

No shocking result in a game in Tartu where second ranked TU/Rock (22-2) smashed 7th ranked TTU/Kalev II (8-16) 100-74. The game was mostly controlled by TU/Rock. TTU/Kalev II was better in third quarter 22-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. TU/Rock forced 22 TTU/Kalev II turnovers. It was a very good performance for naturalized Greek guard Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-89) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 6 assists. Forward Timo Eichfuss (200-88) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Guard Mihkel Kurg (191-87) answered with 14 points and 8 rebounds and American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) added 16 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for TTU/Kalev II. Five TU/Rock and four TTU/Kalev II 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. Defending champion maintains second place with 22-2 record behind leader Kalev/Cramo. TTU/Kalev II lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with 16 games lost. TU/Rock will play against Valga/CKE (#5) on the road in the next round. TTU/Kalev II's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Tallinn to the arena Kalev/Cramo.
Top scorers:
TU/Rock: S.Leppik 16+4reb, T.Eichfuss 15+7reb+1ast, S.Sokk 14+4reb+6ast, R.Veideman 10+1reb+2ast, T.Kurbas 10+3reb+2ast, V.Allingu 8+1reb
TTU/Kalev II: A.Arnold 16+6reb+1ast, M.Kurg 14+8reb+3ast, M.Kaja 13+6reb+1ast, S.Raudla 10+3reb+1ast, K.Akenparg 8+3reb+2ast, K.Keres 4+3reb+1ast

Standings - KML

EMKL Standings

1. Kalev/Cramo		23-3
2. TU/Rock		22-2
3. TTU/Kalev		16-5
4. Rakvere		12-12
5. Valga/CKE		10-13
6. Rapla		10-13
7. TTU/Kalev II		8-16
8. Parnu		6-19
9. Voru KK		1-25

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 18.7

1. Thornton, Voru KK	18.7
2. Saage, Rakvere	18.1
3. Erm, Rapla	17.1
4. Raap, Parnu	16.6
5. Brown, Va.	16.6
6. Raadik, Parnu	15.7
7. Arnold, TT.	15.1
8. Osby, TT.	14.8
9. Tagamets, Va.	14.2
10. Kuuba, Voru KK	14.2

Rebounds Per Game

Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Thornton, Voru KK	12.2
2. Brown, Va.	11.9
3. Arnold, TT.	11.1
4. Ringmets, Rapla	9.8
5. Kuuba, Voru KK	9.0
6. Osby, TT.	8.9
7. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	8.5
8. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.	7.5
9. Pokla, Rakvere	7.4
10. Raadik, Parnu	6.5

Assists Per Game

Valmo KRIISA
  TTU/Kalev
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Kriisa, TT.	3.7
2. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo	3.7
3. Sokk, TU/Rock	3.3
4. Oja, Va.	3.0
5. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo	2.9
6. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock	2.8
7. Pokla, Rakvere	2.7
8. Ringmets, Rapla	2.6
9. Archibald, TT.	2.5
10. Laane, Rapla	2.4

Steals Per Game

Rait-Riivo LAANE
  Rapla
  (180-G-93)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Laane, Rapla	2.3
2. Doronin, TU/Rock	2.3
3. Karner, Parnu	2.2
4. Leppik, TU/Rock	2.2
5. Saage, Rakvere	2.2
6. Raap, Parnu	2.2
7. Oja, Va.	1.9
8. Erm, Rapla	1.8
9. Pilk, TT.	1.8
10. Dorbek, Rakvere	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2

1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	2.0
2. Osby, TT.	1.4
3. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.	1.3
4. Raadik, Parnu	1.1
5. Brown, Va.	0.9
6. Raadik, TU/Rock	0.8
7. Talts, TU/Rock	0.8
8. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	0.7
9. Saarmets, TTU/K.	0.7
10. Arnold, TT.	0.7

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EUROCHALLENGE

Massey's 22 points and 8 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old forward Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Lokomotiv Kuban and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4 (Top 16).
He had the game-high 22 points adding eight rebounds and two assists for Lokomotiv in his team's victory, helping them to beat Zadar (#4, 1-3) 81-71. Lokomotiv is placed at 2nd position in EuroChallenge group L. Lokomotiv is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 2nd lost game this season out of 4 games. In the team's last game Massey had a remarkable 53.8% from 2-point range. He turned to be Lokomotiv's top player in his first season with the team. Kansas State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Massey is in league's top in rebounds (8th best: 8.5rpg) and averages solid 53.9% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79) of Norrkoping Dolphins. He is a in his 3rd season at Norrkoping. In the last game Kjellbom recorded impressive double-double of 27 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Norrkoping lost that game 87-94 to group K's leader Gravelines (#1, 4-0). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the top position in group K. Norrkoping still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. 3 lost games are too many comparing to just one victory Norrkoping managed to get this Top 16. Kjellbom is one of the most experienced players at Norrkoping and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Andre Smith (203-F-85) of league's leader Pinar Karsiyaka SK Izmir. Smith scored 26 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Smith's great performance Karsiyaka lost 80-86 to #4 ranked Antwerp. But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing Karsiyaka needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams in group J. Their record is 3 victories and 1 lost games. Smith has a great season in EuroChallenge. After only 8 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.0rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86) of Ventspils - 27 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Graham Brown (205-C-84) of Antwerp - 22 points and 5 rebounds
6. Elton Brown (206-F/C-83) of Elitzur Netanya - 19 points and 11 rebounds
7. Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81) of Krka - 14 points and 13 rebounds
8. Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81) of Lokomotiv - 20 points and 7 rebounds
9. Marco Killingsworth (203-F-82) of Maccabi Haifa - 20 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Devin Green (201-G/F-82) of Lukoil Academik - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 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)

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EUROCUP

Rudez's 23 points and 5 assists give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
24-year old forward Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Cedevita Zagreb and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4 (Top 16).
He had the game-high 23 points adding four rebounds and five assists for Cedevita in his team's victory, helping them to edge out Gran Canaria (#3, 1-3) 89-86. Cedevita maintains the 2nd position in Eurocup group I. Cedevita is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 2nd lost game this season out of 4 games. In the team's last game Rudez had a remarkable five three-pointers out of 7 attempts. It's his second year at Cedevita and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Damjan Rudez averages this season 13.0ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Paul Davis (211-C-84) of top-ranked Cajasol Sevilla. He is American center in his first season at Cajasol. In the last game Davis recorded impressive 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course he lead Cajasol to another comfortable win 95-81 over slightly lower-ranked ALBA (#3, 1-3) being unquestionably team leader. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the top position in group L. Cajasol consolidated its place in the very top position of the standings. A very good start of the Top 16 for his team, which won so far all 4 games without any defeat. Davis is a newcomer at Cajasol and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Alex Acker (196-G-83) of Le Mans Sarthe Basket (#3). Acker scored 24 points and passed five assists. Despite Acker's great performance Le Mans lost 72-77 to #1 ranked Budivelnyk. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. Le Mans can only dream about fighting for top spots in group J. They have rather bad season and 1-3 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Acker he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Acker has a very solid season. In 10 games in Eurocup he scored 13.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) of Unics - 19 points and 6 rebounds
5. Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83) of Gran Canaria - 27 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Jason Boone (198-F/C-85) of Goettingen - 14 points and 11 rebounds
7. Bracey Wright (191-G-84) of Cedevita - 23 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Timothy Bowers (188-G-82) of Pepsi Caserta - 22 points and 4 rebounds
9. Devin Smith (196-G/F-81) of Benetton TV - 24 points and 4 rebounds
10. Immanuel McElroy (193-G-80) of ALBA - 16 points, 4 rebounds and 5 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)

ALBA Berlin brings in Taylor Rochestie - by Eurobasket News
Taylor Rochestie (185-G-85, college: Washington St.) is a new member of ALBA Berlin. The American guard signed a deal for rest of the season. Rochestie was released by Galatasaray few days ago. He played 16 games for them in TBL collecting 7.9 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists. In EuroCup he added 6 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 2.5 apg for 11 games.
Taylor Rochestie is not a new face in Germany as he spent last season with MEG Goettingen. He ended as third best scorer of the league with 15.1 ppg for 38 games. Rochestie also added 2.8 rpg and 3.2 apg. In EuroChallenge he had 14.7 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 2.7 apg for 16 appearances. It was his first season as a pro. Rochestie is a product of the Washington State University, where he graduated in 2009. He had 13.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 4.5 apg for 33 games as a senior.

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EUROLEAGUE

Top 16: Round Four review - by Eurobasket News

Group E

Lietuvos Rytas - Unicaja 70-65
Valuable home win for Lietuvos Rytas, who jumped to 2-2 in Group E sharing the second place with Caja Laboral. The good thing for Rytas is that they outplayed the Spanish champion in their first meeting so the second game in Vilnius will most probably be crucial for both teams. Unicaja dropped to 1-3 and closes the standings in this group. Khalid El-Amin (178-G-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: Connecticut) stepped up for the hosts with 18 points. Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) had 17 points and 6 rebounds, while Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 12 points and 7 rebs. In Unicaja, Joel Freeland (208-F-87) collected 19 points and 8 boards. Robert Archibald (212-C/F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) (8 rebs) and Berni Rodriguez (197-F/G-80) added 12 points each. Teams were tied to 17-17 after one quarter and Rytas managed to take 39-35 for the next ten minutes. The hosts dominated after the breather and after triple by Newley they grabbed 10-points lead. Berni Rodriguez and Joel Freeland saved Unicaja in the finish of Q3 closing the gap to 53-48. With five minutes left Rytas jumped to 64-56 and Unicaja was in trouble. All they managed to do until the end was 68-65, but Khalid El-Amin had no mercy from the line securing the valuable victory for his team. Rytas will travel next week to play Panathinaikos in Athens, while Unicaja will face a tough challenge in their visit of Caja Laboral's Fernando Buesa Arena.

Panathinaikos - Caja Laboral 76-74
Panathinaikos managed to beat Caja Laboral in Athens 76-74 improving to 3-1 record. Thanks to this win, the Greens are alone on top of Group E again. Caja Laboral dropped to 2-2 and they share the second place with Lietuvos Rytas, who beat them in Vitoria earlier in Top 16. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) was a key player in PAO with 22 points and 11 rebounds. He reached valuation 40 with just two missed shots for 34 minutes. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) (6 rebs) and Drew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) netted 12 points each. In the loosing squad, David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) delivered 21 points and Fernando San Emeterio (198-G/F-84) had two less. Question about the winner is resolved in the finish. Before that, PAO made 21-18 in the first quarter and Caja Laboral cut the margin to 40-39 in the second period. Visitors grabbed 45-46 lead after the breather, but the hosts replied with quick 10-0 run. Fernando San Emeterio hit a jumper in the paint but free throws by Diamantidis and Antonis Fotsis made it a double-digit game, 59-48. Sow scored down low to get the guests within 59-50 after 30 minutes. Caja Laboral completed 0-10 run at the beginning of Q4 and everything was open again. PAO jumped to plus six, but Teletovic and Batiste made two bombs for 72-72 tie with 38 seconds to go. Mike Batiste scored inside the paint and Huertas tied the game once again. Batiste was sent to the line and he made both attempts to give the hosts a 76-74 edge with 4.2 seconds left. Fernando San Emeterio drew a foul with 0.2 seconds remaining but missed both free throws and PAO grabbed valuable home win. In the next round, PAO will host Lietuvos Rytas, Caja Laboral waits Unicaja.

Group F

Lottomatica - Regal Barca 65-74
Regal Barca booked a spot for the Euroleague Quarterfinals. Despite there is two more rounds to go in Top 16, the reigning Euroleague champion already secured the ticket for the next stage. They have perfect 4-0 record staying the top-ranked team in Group F. Lottomatica Roma closes the standings with 0-4 and they have no chance to advance. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) came up with 19 points for the winners. Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) helped with 15, while Ricky Rubio (192-G-90) (8 rebs) and Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) netted 9 points each. Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) scored 15 points for the hosts and Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) had 12. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) stopped to 10 pts. First period ended with 14-14 tie and Lottomatica Roma grabbed 27-25 lead for the next ten minutes. The hosts scored six three-pointers in the third period and managed to build a 13-point lead, 43-30. Visitors finally replied and cut the margin to 51-46 until the end of Q3. Barca took control on Roma in the last period. Led by Ricky Rubio, they stepped up in defense and as such, offense started to work as well to the point of completing the comeback and winning the game in the last two minutes. Barca had 7-22 run during the period. Barca goes to Tel-Aviv next week. Lottomatica will meet Union Olimpija also on the road.

Union Olimpija - Maccabi T-A 65-83
Maccabi Electra did a great job at Stozice Arena tonight. The Israeli powerhouse managed to beat Union Olimpija 65-83 jumping to 3-1 record in Group F. With this victory Maccabi already booked a ticked for the Euroleague Quarterfinals. Olimpija on the other side lost all chances to do the same. They dropped to 1-3. Jeremy Pargo (188-G-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) was the leading player in victory with valuation 28 (16 pts, 7 as). Doron Perkins (188-G-83, college: Santa Clara) (5 rebs, 7 as) and Lior Eliyahu (207-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) also scored 16 points each. David Blu (202-F-80, college: USC) helped with one less. For the hosts, Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) collected 13 points and 7 rebounds. Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) had 11 pts and 5 rebs. Despite nice 14-9 beginning by Union Olimpija, Maccabi managed to take 19-22 lead after first ten minutes. The hosts replied with 10-0 run after that and they later made 33-24. Lior Eliyahu sank an off-balance shot and David Blu nailed a corner triple to give Maccabi some fresh air at 33-29. Jeremy Pargo downed a step-back jumper and matched Shermadini's dunk with free throws for a 35-33 Maccabi deficit. Gergory and Shermadini saved Olimpija in the finish of this period setting the score to 41-33. Visitors exploded in Q3 and thanks to 0-13 run during it, they made 49-56 lead with 10:00 to go. Maccabi smashed Olimpija in the last quarter, including impressive 0-16 run for 23-point lead (51-74). Everything was said and done so the last moments were just the formality. In the next round, Maccabi will host Regal Barca. Union Olimpija will play another home game and this time against Lottomatica.

Group G

Efes Pilsen - Real Madrid 60-77
Real Madrid is the second Spanish team who already booked a spot for the Euroleague Quarterfinals. Regal Barca also did it today. After four rounds in Top 16, the Whites have perfect 4-0 record and of course they stay No.1 of Group G. Efes Pilsen dropped to 2-2 but still has a chance to reach the Quarterfinals as there is two more rounds to go. Sergio Llull (190-G-87) had 17 points and 5 assists for the guests, while Ante Tomic (217-C-87) scored 14 pts and grabbed 6 rebounds. Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) helped with 10 points. In Efes Pilsen, Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) delivered 14 points. Marvis Thornton (194-G-77, college: St.John's) had 10 pts and 7 rebs. The Whites had minimum lead (12-13) after first ten minutes and they jumped to 24-35 until the halftime. That includes 2-11 run in the finish of the second quarter. Nothing has changed after the breather as there was only one team playing on the court and it was Real Madrid. Visitors reached 25-40 and few moments later they were already 20-points up. The game winner was known and last quarter was just the formality. In Round Five, Real Madrid will travel to Belgrade. Efes Pilsen will go to Siena and it will be crucial game for both teams.

Montepaschi - Partizan 77-74
Montepaschi had to work very hard tonight to beat Partizan 77-74. Two teams defended Cup titles in their countries last weekend and today they met in very important Euroleague game. Montepaschi celebrated and moved up to 2-2 in Group G. On the other side, Partizan dropped to 0-4 and its slim playoff hopes come to an end. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) stepped up for the hosts with 17 points. Shaun Stonerook (203-F/C-77, college: Ohio) and David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) helped with 10 points apiece. For the guests, Jan Vesely (211-F-90) had 17 points and 7 rebounds. Curtis Jerrells (185-G-87, college: Baylor) collected 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists, but he had poor 0-6 from behind the arc. Partizan opened the game in style making 12-20 lead after ten minutes. However, it was a sign for the home players to wake up, what they immediately did and created 38-37 turn until the halftime. Partizan was up by 8 after the breather, but Rakovic, Stonerook and Hairston saved Montepaschi tying the score to 53-53 before the last period. Montepaschi made 9-1 run at the halfway of Q4, but Partizan came to 69-68 with something more than a minute to go. Moss scored twice from the line and Jawai answered with a layup. David Moss was sent to the line once again and outcome was the same. The game came down to the closing minute and Partizan had the ball down three, but after Curtis Jerrells missed a 3-pointer and Jan Vesely made just 1 free throw, Nikos Zisis iced the victory with 4 free throws in the final 12.4 seconds. In the next round, Montepaschi will host Efes Pilsen. Partizan waits Real Madrid.

Group H

Zalgiris - Fener.Ulker 85-84 OT
Zalgiris (1-3) grabbed the first victory in Top 16, Group H. At the same time, it was the first loss for Fenerbahce Ulker who has 3-1 record now. The home squad managed to beat Fener 85-84 in OT. A three-pointer by Tadas Klimavicius (204-F-82, agency: Interperformances) and free throws by Kalnietis, Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) and Tomas Delininkaitis (192-G-82, agency: Interperformances) allowed Zalgiris to seal an unbelievable win down the stretch. Delininkaitis and Pocius were the leading scorers in Zalgiris with 13 points each. Trent Plaisted (211-F/C-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: BYU) helped with one less. In the loosing squad, Omer Onan (194-G-78) shined with 23 points. Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) had 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists, while Oguz Savas stopped to 10 pts and 6 rebs. Zalgiris made 15-11 after opening ten minutes and Fenerbahce Ulker replied with 15-20 in the next quarter. Teams exchanged in lead after the breather and later were tied to 49-49 with 10:00 to go. Zalgiris was down by six in the last quarter, but they managed to make a comeback. Jankunas completed it for 67-66, with 57 seconds to go. May stepped up with a key three-point play, but a driving basket by Kalnietis tied it at 69-69. Zalgiris collected a steal, but Jankunas missed from downtown at the end of regulation. In overtime, Zalgiris jumped to 81-78 with 1:09 to go. Omer Onan hit a jumper and Pocius split free throws, but Preldzic missed a critical shot for the guests. In the finish, Delininkaitis and Kalnietis were solid from the line making 3 of 4 attempts, but Preldzic responded in transition twice. There was 1.8 second left and Delininkaitis was sent to the line. He intentionally missed his second free throw and there was not enough time for Fener to respond. In the next round, Zalgiris will host Valencia. Fenerbahce Ulker will play at home against Olympiakos.

Valencia - Olympiakos 79-85
Excellent performance by Olympiakos in Valencia. The Reds managed to win 79-85 for 3-1 record in Group H, so they are just one step away from the Quarterfinals. On the other side, Valencia dropped to 1-3 and now faces an uphill battle to make it to the Playoffs. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) shined for the Greeks with 18 points, while Radoslav Nesterovic (212-C-76) added 16 points and 6 rebounds. Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) (6 rebs) and Zoran Erceg (210-C/F-85) secured a great help with 12 points each. For the hosts, Victor Claver (207-F/C-88) (6 rebs) and Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) netted 16 points apiece. Rafael Martinez (191-G-82) scored 12. Valencia grabbed 12-9 lead at the beginning, but Olympiakos replied with 5-11 for rest of the first quarter. Teams exchanged in lead in the second period, including the 8-0 run by the home squad. Visitors didn't panic and set the score to 37-37 at the HT. Neither of two teams was able to take a serious lead after the breather. Thanks to free throws by Augustine, Valencia held 55-53 with one quarter left. They were still ahead by two with three minutes left and it was 69-67. Radoslav Nesterovic made 0-4 run on his own and Victor Claver scored on the other side. Erceg and Nesterovic made baskets for 73-77 with 90 seconds left. As the game went down to the wire, Cook and Vassilis Spanoulis traded big-time triples to set the table for a Game-of-the-Week-worthy finish at 76-80 with 31 seconds to go. Victor Claver was sent to the line, but he made just one, while on the other side Erceg had no mercy scoring both of his free throws. The victory was sealed and Olympiakos came very close to Euroleague Quarterfinals. In Round Five, Olympiakos will meet Fenerbahce Ulker in Istanbul. Valencia goes to Kaunas.

Antonis Fotsis claims Euroleague weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) had an amazing evening in the last round for Panathinaikos Athens and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4 (Top 16).
The 29-year old forward had a double-double of 22 points and eleven rebounds, while his team edged out Caja Laboral (2-2) 76-74. It allowed Panathinaikos to keep the first place in Group E. They have almost perfect 3-1 record. Fotsis has many years of experience at Panathinaikos, through which he has constantly improved. Antonis Fotsis averages 8.7ppg and 5.3rpg this season.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old American guard Jeremy Pargo (188-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) of Maccabi T-A. Pargo impressed basketball fans with 16 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists. Of course he lead Maccabi T-A (3-1) to another comfortable win 83-65 over Union Olimpija (1-3) being unquestionably team leader. Pargo is a newcomer at Maccabi T-A and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. Maccabi already booked a spot for the Quarterfinals.

The third best performed player last round was British Joel Freeland (208-F-87) of Unicaja Malaga. Freeland scored 19 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Freeland's great performance Unicaja lost 65-70 to Lietuvos Rytas. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. Unicaja can only dream about fighting for top spots in group E. They have 1-3 record and closes the standings in Group E. Freeland has individually a great season in Euroleague. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.4rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) of Lietuvos Rytas - 17 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Radoslav Nesterovic (212-C-76) of Olympiakos - 16 points and 6 rebounds
6. Omer Onan (194-G-78) of Fener.Ulker - 23 points and 2 rebounds
7. Victor Claver (207-F/C-88) of Valencia - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) of Union Olimpija - 13 points and 7 rebounds
9. Robert Archibald (212-C/F-80) of Unicaja - 12 points and 8 rebounds
10. Doron Perkins (188-G-83) of Maccabi T-A - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 7 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

Euroleague Standings

Group E
1. Panathinaikos			3-1
2. Lietuvos Rytas			2-2
3. Caja Laboral			2-2
4. Unicaja			1-3
Group F
1. Regal Barca			4-0
2. Maccabi T-A			3-1
3. Union Olimpija			1-3
4. Lottomatica			0-4
Group G
1. Real Madrid			4-0
2. Efes Pilsen			2-2
3. Montepaschi			2-2
4. Partizan			0-4
Group H
1. Fener.Ulker			3-1
2. Olympiakos			3-1
3. Valencia			1-3
4. Zalgiris			1-3

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Bojan BOGDANOVIC
  Cibona
  (202-G/F-89)
  Avg: 18

1. Bogdanovic, Cibona	18.0
2. Langford, Khimky	17.8
3. Rakocevic, Efes P.	16.5
4. Teletovic, Caja L.	16.1
5. McCalebb, Montepas.	15.5
6. Spanoulis, Olympiakos	15.5
7. Mejia, Cholet	15.1
8. Navarro, Regal B.	14.6
9. San Emeterio, Caja L.	14.3
10. Freeland, Unicaja	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Mirsad TURKCAN
  Fener.Ulker
  (206-F-76)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Turkcan, Fener.Ul.	7.3
2. Fischer, Real Madrid	7.1
3. Gist, Partizan	7.0
4. Jankunas, Zalgiris	7.0
5. Bourousis, Olympiakos	6.5
6. Freeland, Unicaja	6.4
7. Pleiss, Brose B.	6.3
8. Radosevic, Cibona	6.3
9. Gregory, Union O.	6.1
10. Wright, Charleroi	5.9

Assists Per Game

Dimitris DIAMANTIDIS
  Panathinaikos
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 6

1. Diamantidis, Panath.	6.0
2. Huertas, Caja L.	5.6
3. Eidson, Maccabi .	4.4
4. Cook, Valencia	4.4
5. Spanoulis, Olympiakos	4.4
6. Jasikevicius, Lietuv.	4.3
7. Pellin, Le Mans	4.2
8. Rubio, Regal Barca	4.1
9. Stipcevic, Cibona	4.1
10. Ilievski, Union O.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Chuck EIDSON
  Maccabi T-A
  (201-F/G-80)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Eidson, Maccabi .	3.1
2. McCalebb, Montepas.	2.4
3. Diot, Le Mans	2.2
4. Perkins, Maccabi .	2.1
5. Diamantidis, Panath.	1.9
6. Goldsberry, Brose B.	1.9
7. Stonerook, Montepas.	1.9
8. Smith, Lottomatica	1.9
9. Rubio, Regal Barca	1.9
10. Ozbolt, Union O.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Mirza BEGIC
  Real Madrid
  (216-C-85)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Begic, Zalgiris	2.3
2. Fischer, Real Madrid	1.9
3. Riddick, Charleroi	1.7
4. Pleiss, Brose B.	1.5
5. Falker, Cholet	1.3
6. Bourousis, Olympiakos	1.3
7. Eze, Khimky	1.3
8. Barac, Caja Laboral	1.2
9. Hines, Brose B.	1.1
10. Lishchuk, Valencia	1.1

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

FINLAND

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Pyrinto		29-7
2. KTP		24-10
3. Kataja		24-11
4. Korihait		22-13
5. Honka		21-12
6. Kouvot		18-17
7. Karhu		16-18
8. ToPo		16-19
9. Namika Lahti		13-21
10. Salon Vilpas		12-23
11. LrNMKY		8-27
12. Tarmo		5-30

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Jamar WILSON
  Honka
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 23.1

1. Wilson, Honka	23.1
2. Lewis, LrNM.	21.4
3. Heard, Tarmo	21.2
4. Blanchard, ToPo	20.3
5. Wood, Karhu	20.1
6. Bailey, LrNM.	19.6
7. Walker, Kouvot	19.3
8. Williamson, Honka	19.0
9. Williams, Pyrinto	19.0
10. Moore, LrNM.	18.7

Rebounds Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 13.2

1. Wood, Karhu	13.2
2. Kaunisto, Kouvot	10.9
3. Young, Tarmo	10.0
4. Mathis, Namika Lahti	9.9
5. Doaks, Salon Vilpas	9.8
6. Blanchard, ToPo	9.8
7. Vinson, Kouvot	9.5
8. Williams, Pyrinto	9.4
9. Coleman, LrNM.	8.9
10. Belser, Honka	8.6

Assists Per Game

Steffan JOHNSON
  Karhu
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Johnson, Karhu	4.8
2. Moore, LrNM.	4.5
3. Williams, Pyrinto	4.2
4. Wood, Karhu	4.1
5. Suonio, Namika Lahti	3.9
6. Okorie, Salon Vilpas	3.8
7. Virtanen, Kataja	3.8
8. Sarcevic, Korihait	3.6
9. Ivey, KTP	3.5
10. Kataja, Salon Vilpas	3.4

Steals Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Wood, Karhu	2.1
2. Fields, KTP	2.0
3. Newson, Kataja	1.9
4. Moore, Korihait	1.9
5. Heard, Tarmo	1.9
6. Conerly, Tarmo	1.8
7. Sarcevic, Korihait	1.7
8. Fells, Kataja	1.7
9. Richards, ToPo	1.6
10. Wilson, Salon Vilpas	1.6

Blocks Per Game

James REAVES
  Korihait
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 1

1. Reaves, Korihait	1.0
2. Hendley, Namika Lahti	0.8
3. Bailey, LrNM.	0.7
4. Heard, Tarmo	0.7
5. Moore, LrNM.	0.7
6. Blanchard, ToPo	0.7
7. Wilson, Honka	0.7
8. Belser, Honka	0.6
9. Young, Tarmo	0.6
10. Wood, Karhu	0.6

@Basketball and Beyond - by Corey Belser

It's about that time for a another blog! Even though I am starting think nobody really reads these. I guess what I am trying to say is leave a reply good or bad, or even better give me some questions to talk about in my next blog! Things here in Finland are really starting to heat up, on the Basketball Court that is! God knows it's not getting any warmer outside! It's currently -15 degrees celsius and rumor has it, that it's been close to -40c in some places! It's odd, because this past week it's been really sunny and it's been getting colder! I think it has something to do with the lack of moisture in the air, but what do I know? I just hope it starts to heat up off the court soon, summer's almost here!

There's currently 9 games left in the regular season and we are currently on a 5 game winning streak! We have a tough and important match this Saturday, and with these last 9 games we have a great opportunity to move into the 2nd place in league so ever game is crucial. 2nd place would mean that we would play vs the 7th seed in the first round of the playoffs and have home court advantage. As for the VTB League, our first year in the league has been a learning experience. Last week we lost in Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk Ukraine. In a match we should won. We still have two more games left against very good clubs in CSKA Moscow and Unics Kazan. We are still looking to capture our first win in the league, even though these next two matches we will be huge underdogs, I have hope we will. Speaking of the UNDERDOGS! I am a proud University of San Diego alumni today, we upset the Nations 23rd ranked Saint Mary's Gales! We have a young team and it's been a tough year for the team, but last night we showed our potential against a solid SMC squad! I hope that this win will give us the confidence and hunger to work even harder. Congrats to the entire SD organization especially the two seniors, Devin Ginty (187-G-89)y and Matt Dorr (193-G-88) make it a special senior year fellas! Fight On Toreros!!!

I want encourage all the professional athletes out there, to give back to the youth in your communities! I feel like there a lot of youth today who could use a mentor, role model, or friend! John Wooden said it best 'Young people need models not critics.' There are so many distractions now days. I can't imagine the stress parents have raising children in a world where, any and everything is right at their fingertips! I have started The Academy of Future College Athletes www.afcathletes.org. AFCA is a non-profit organization that strives to help athletes not just be better players but better people. As an organization we are still young, less then a year old but it's been going well and have been getting a lot of positive feedback. I am really excited for AFCA's future and the lives it will change along the way. It's always great to speak with other professional athletes giving back and working with youth in their off time. I feel it's our obligation to give back and provide the same support and assistance we received, if not more!
Please check us out, on our website www.afcathletes.org, you can even support us on Facebook www.facebook.com/afcathletes, Youtube www.youtube.com/afcabasketball or Twitter twitter.com/afcathletes. As a non-profit organization we need all the support and exposure we can get. It truly never goes unnoticed, so thank you for your needed support!

Life always seems to throw a curve ball when we least expect, it can really put things into perspective. I want to send my condolences to a great friend Nick Lewis (207-F/C-83, agency: Impact Basketball, college: San Diego) and his family. They recently lost an incredible woman and beautiful spirit, to a long battle with Cancer! RIP Melodie Lewis!! It's been over 5 years since college, when Melodie's Cancer first surfaced. It was her battle then, that gave us the courage and motivation to overcome anything that we experienced in basketball or life. I remember how we all shaved our heads in support of her fight, and how she helped to unite our team! We went from a team of individuals, to a family of brothers! She will be truly missed but always remembered!

Before I close this out, I just want to send an alley oop pass to my cousin the sexy7footer as he tells it aka Michael Fey (213-F/C-83, college: UCLA) and his Wife Gia out in Japan balling!! Kon'nichiwa fam!

Life is short! Enjoy every second of it...............Corey Belser (200-F-82, college: San Diego) singing out!