EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 2/19/2011

Copyright © 1997-2011 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

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


Mavericks defeat Red Storm - by Gianni Pascucci
The Southeast Texas Mavericks defeated the Houston Red Storm 135-103 at their NJEC Arena on Thursday night. The Mavericks came out slowly in the first quarter as the Red Storm led by Brandon Andrews (6'3''-G-81, college: Gannon), Mike Levy (6'5''-G-82, college: Lamar), and Sam Stelly (6'4''-F-87) built an early 12-2 lead. Alex Sanders (6'7''-F/C-75, college: Louisville) and Desmond Cambridge (6'0''-G-79, college: Alabama A&M) came off the Mavericks bench to lead the Mavericks as Houston only led by a 29-27 score after one period of play.
SETX was dominant in the second quarter as DeSean White (6'8''-F-86, college: Northwood Fl.), Jon Rogers (6'9''-F/C-84, college: Valdosta St.), and Lamar Sanders (6'6''-F-84, college: Lamar) took over the inside for the Mavericks. Cambridge and Myles Thrash (6'0''-G-77, college: Stillman) led the way will the Mavs full court pressure. The Mavs outscored the Red Storm 36-18 to gain control of the game and lead 63-47 at half-time.
The second half was a physical struggle. The Mavericks just proved to be too deep for the Red Storm as seven Mavericks scored in double figures. The Mavericks cruised to another victory 135-103.
Alex Sanders led the way for the Mavericks with 22 points. White and P.J. Couisnard (6'4''-G/F-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services, college: Wichita St.) added 21 points each. Davis chipped in 12 points. Thrash and Mike Crain (6'2''-G-84, college: Valdosta St.) each scored 11 points each respectively. Jon Rogers followed up with 10 points. Stelly led the way for the Red Storm with a game high 23 points. Andrews added 17 point and Levy chipped 16 points.
The SETX Mavericks will get together with the Houston Red Storm again on Saturday night in Houston. TX. Tip-off will be at 7:30 PM.

Standings
ABA Standings
 1. Colorado Kings 15-0 
 2. Arlington B. 2-3 
 3. NY Prime Time 1-4 
 4. Santa Barbara 0-0 
 5. Texas RR 0-1 
 6. Shizuoka Gym. 0-3 
Gulf Coast
 1. SE Texas M. 21-1 
 2. Gulf Coast F. 5-4 
 3. Mobile Bay H. 4-2 
 4. Louisiana U. 1-5 
 5. Cypress 0-0 
 6. Houston R.S. 0-8 
Mid-Atlantic
 1. Seven Cities 13-2 
 2. Atlanta V. 0-0 
 3. Charlotte 0-0 
 4. College Park 0-0 
 5. Fayetteville F. 0-0 
 6. Georgia G. 0-0 
 7. Georgia K. 0-0 
NoCal
 1. E.Bay Pitbulls 14-4 
 2. Bay Area M. 10-6 
 3. Modesto H. 9-8 
 4. California SK 8-6 
 5. Sacramento H. 8-6 
 6. S.Francisco R. 5-3 
 7. Clayton 0-0 
North Central
 1. Chicago Steam 12-3 
 2. Lake Michigan 8-4 
 3. Detroit Hoops 0-0 
 4. Elkhart E. 0-0 
 5. Indianapolis 0-0 
 6. Kansas City S. 0-0 
 7. Pittsburgh P. 0-0 
 8. NWI M.Stars 0-3 
Northeast
 1. Jersey Expr. 3-1 
 2. NY Red Riders 0-0 
 3. NY Thunder 0-0 
 4. S.Jersey 0-0 
 5. Tri-City Suns 0-0 
Northwest
 1. Seattle M. 11-1 
SoCal
 1. San Diego Sol 12-3 
 2. Las Vegas A. 8-1 
 3. LA Slam 8-6 
 4. San Diego S. 7-6 
 5. Compton C. 0-0 
 6. S.Valley Fever 0-0 
 7. Mid-Valley 0-1 
 8. Riverside R. 0-1 
 9. SoCal Swish 0-4 
South Central
 1. E.Kentucky En. 14-1 
 2. Columbus Diesel 7-4 
 3. St. Louis 2-1 
 4. Kentucky B. 0-0 
 5. Kentucky C. 0-0 
 6. W.Virginia B. 0-0 
Southeast
 1. Jacksonville 17-0 
 2. Columbus Life 11-2 
 3. Savannah Storm 10-5 
 4. Bahama PS 0-0 
 5. Florida M. 0-0 
 6. Florida Th. 0-0 
 7. Heartland P. 0-0 
 8. Orlando Kings 0-0 
 9. Team Haiti 0-0 
Southwest
 1. Texas Fuel 13-4 
 2. North Dallas 10-6 
 3. Oklahoma 8-3 
 4. West Texas W. 8-6 
 5. N.Texas F. 1-4 
 6. Dallas Impact 0-0 


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


Standings
ACPBL Standings
 1. Garden St. R. 7-2 
 2. Norfolk TB 7-2 
 3. Buffalo S. 5-3 
 4. New York L. 5-3 
 5. Beltway B. 5-5 
 6. Tri-City Suns 2-6 
 7. Hudson Valley 2-7 
 8. Wildkatz 2-8 


ACPBL Week 10 Recap: Antoinne Morgano named Player of the Week - by Gianni Pascucci
At the end of the tenth week of operations, the Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League front office announced that Antoinne Morgano (6'5''-G/F-86) of the Garden State Rebels has been named ACPBL player of the week. Morgano netted 48 points Saturday night in a 113-106 overtime win against the Westchester Wildkatz, also grabbing 12 rebounds, dishing off 3 assists and picking up 1 blocked shot. It was the seventh consecutive win in season for the Garden State Rebels, now sitting at the 1st place tie in the ACPBL standings with the Tru Hope Trailblazers. The Garden State Rebels and Tru Hope Trailblazers will play each other on March 13th in Chesapeake, VA.
Below is the full recap of week #10 complete with scores and top performers, visiting www.acpbl.com and click on stats you can view the box scores for each game.

HUDSON VALLEY KINGZ (2-7) 102 - BUFFALO STAMPEDE (5-3) 104
Top performers: Buffalo Stampede: Charles Walker (6'4''-G/F, college: D'Youville) 23 points, 4 assists, 1 rebound, 2 steals. Hudson Valley Kingz: Prince Jackson (6'6''-F-84, college: Dominican (NY)) 35 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals.

BELTWAY BOMBERS (5-5) 119 - TRU HOPE TRAILBLAZERS (7-2) 130
Top performers: Beltway Bombers: Rogers Barnes (6'2''-G-86, college: Morgan St.) 32 points, 3 steals. Tru Hope Trailblazers: Donnie Stith (6'7''-F-85, college: Tulane) 29 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks.

HUDSON VALLEY KINGZ (2-7) 100 - NEW YORK LIONS (5-3) 105
Top performers: New York Lions: Corriche Gaskin (6'3''-G) 25 points, 2 rebounds. Hudson Valley Kingz: Doug Herring (6'1''-G, college: Utica) 24 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists.

GARDEN STATE REBELS (7-2) 113 - WESTCHESTER WILDKATZ (2-8) 106
Top performers: Garden State Rebels: Antoinne Morgano 48 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block. Buffalo Stampede: Telron Spell (6'4''-G/F-82, college: Bridgeport) 26 points, 15 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals.

TRU HOPE TRAILBLAZERS (7-2) 116 - TRI-CITY SUNS (2-6) 107



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


Sime Sparlja out for the season? - by Eurobasket News
Bad news for Siroki TT Kabeli as they are set to lose their captain for the rest of the season. Reportedly, Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) is facing a lengthy layoff due to back injury. Spralja helped Siroki beat BC Bosna and win National Cup this past weekend but it seems that he has aggravated back injury which has been bothering him for a while. After initial exams, it is expected that Spralja will have to miss the rest of the season in order to heal properly. This is a major blow for Siroki and it remains to be seen whether they will bring in a replacement. Prior to getting injured, Spralja has 13.2 points and 4.6 rebounds in 20 Adriatic League games played.
Sime Spralja is a long serving team captain who has so far in his career played for the likes of Zadar, Split and Siroki. He started the career off with BC Zadar where he played for 5 seasons. Than in 2005-2006 season he played for BC Split. On season later he moved to Siroki where he was one of the teams main players. Last season, Spralja has averaged 16.1 points and 5.5 rebounds, helping Siroki win the title. In Adriatic League, he was also good as he posted averages of 9.9 points and 3.5 rebounds in 24 games.

Branimir Longin extends his stay with Zadar - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Croatian media, BC Zadar management has decided to offer Branimir Longin (196-G-78) contract until the end of the season. Longing has been with the club since January on a one month deal. He has satisfied the coaching staff with his play and they have decided to offer him a chance to finish the season as they value his experience.
Branimir Longin started his career with BC Zadar in 1996. Since then he has went on to play mainly for Zadar and Cibona in Croatia with whom he has won a host of trophies. He has lifted national Title on two occasions in 2001 and 2002 as member of Cibona. Also with Cibona, he has won three consecutive National Cups in 2001, 2002 and 2003. Longin also possesses great international experience having played for the likes of Caja San Fernando Sevilla and EWE Baskets Oldenburg. In 2008, Longin returned to Cibona with whom he has won another National Cup. At the start of last season he has moved to Jadran who is playing in Croatian A2 League and later on signed with Siroki Eronet. He helped them win the National Title.

Igokea tests Maksim Kovacevic - by Eurobasket News
Igokea has brought in Maksim Kovacevic (199-G/F-87) for try-out. Young Serbian guard has so far been playing his trade as member of Superfund. He will spend next few days with the team and then the club will decide will they sign him for rest of the season. Igokea has been suffering injuries to some of its important players so this has prompted them to look for alternatives. Whether this deal will finalize will be known soon.
Maksim Kovacevic is a product of Partizan youth system. He made his professional debut during 2005-2006 season as member of Partizan II. At the start of 2007-2008 he moved to Novi Sad where in 20 games he has averaged 5.8 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Following year he upped his averages to 12.4 points and 3.8 rebounds in 20 games played. He finished the season as member of Vojvodina Novi Sad. Last season, Kovacevic was a regular member of Novi Sad staring five. He appeared in 24 games and has averaged 13.3 points and 3.6 boards per game. So far in his career he has represented Serbia at the U20 European Championships in Slovenia where he won the gold medal.

*****************************************************
  ALBANIA   


Last place for Tirana at the Tournament of the Independence Day - by Liridon Iberdemaj
The runner-up of the Albanian Championship, Sport Klub Tirana has finished fourth at the Tournament of the Independence Day which was held in Kosovo Selected Team on 16th and 17th of February 2011. The team led by coach Roland Avrami lost the first match against Kosovo Selected Team with the result of 89:80 in the first leg of the tournament.
In the third place match Sport Klub Tirana lost against the team from Macedonia, KK Lirija, by the result of 88:86 after five minutes of over-time were played. The score after the regular 40 minutes was 74:74.
Bruno Daliu (202-C-85, college: Tusculum) was the best man in court for Sport Klub Tirana with 25 points, while Algert Gjonaj (200-F-87) was the second best scorer with 21 points.
The team of KK Zrinjevac Zagreb Zagreb won the Tournament of the Independence Day of Kosovo Selected Team after beating at the final match the Kosovo Selected Team.

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


Standings - LigaA
LigaA Standings
 1. Obras 12-4 
 2. Atenas 11-5 
 3. Gimnasia CR 11-6 
 4. La Union 10-6 
 5. Lanus 10-6 
 6. Penarol 9-6 
 7. Libertad S. 8-7 
 8. Quimsa 8-7 
 9. Monte Hermoso 8-8 
 10. Club 9 7-9 
 11. Regatas C. 7-9 
 12. Argentino 6-10 
 13. Estudiantes 5-9 
 14. Boca Jrs 5-12 
 15. Olimpico LB 4-10 
 16. Sionista 4-11 


Stats Leaders - LigaA
Points Per Game
 David JACKSON
  La Union
  (196-G-82)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Jackson, La Union19.6 
 2. Bunn, Argentino18.9 
 3. Johnson, Monte H.17.8 
 4. Lo Grippo, Quimsa17.1 
 5. Meyinsse, Club 916.0 
 6. Gutierrez, Obras15.9 
 7. Galindo, Libertad S.15.5 
 8. Taylor, Lanus15.5 
 9. Pittman, Obras14.8 
 10. Gutierrez, Penarol14.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Juan GUTIERREZ
  Obras
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Gutierrez, Obras9.7 
 2. Kammerichs, Regat.9.5 
 3. Rollins, Gimnasia.8.9 
 4. Kante, Olimpico LB8.8 
 5. Williams, Atenas8.5 
 6. Battle, Libertad S.8.2 
 7. Johnson, Monte H.8.1 
 8. Leiva, Penarol8.0 
 9. Mikulas, La Union7.6 
 10. Martina, Boca Jrs7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudiantes
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Sanchez, Estudian.6.3 
 2. Martinez, Regat.5.7 
 3. Labaque, Atenas5.1 
 4. Salles, Monte H.4.8 
 5. Ginobili, Libertad S.4.6 
 6. Cequeira, Obras4.5 
 7. Sartorelli, Argentino3.4 
 8. Franco, Sionista3.4 
 9. Victoriano, Lanus3.1 
 10. Laws, Olimpico LB3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudiantes
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Sanchez, Estudian.3.2 
 2. Cequeira, Obras2.6 
 3. Lamonte, Penarol2.5 
 4. Sciutto, Monte H.2.4 
 5. Labaque, Atenas2.4 
 6. Williams, Atenas2.4 
 7. Martinez, Regat.2.3 
 8. Salles, Monte H.2.3 
 9. Moodie, Boca Jrs2.3 
 10. Okosa, Gimnasia CR2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Battle, Libertad S.1.9 
 2. Meyinsse, Club 91.4 
 3. Johnson, Monte H.1.4 
 4. Kammerichs, Regat.1.2 
 5. Gutierrez, Obras1.2 
 6. Williams, Atenas1.0 
 7. Alston, Boca Jrs1.0 
 8. Aguerre, Estudian.0.8 
 9. Levy, Lanus0.7 
 10. Wolkowyski, Libertad.0.7 


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


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Gary ERVIN
  Hawks
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 20.5
 1. Ervin, Hawks20.5 
 2. Penney, Breakers19.5 
 3. Redhage, Wildcats18.0 
 4. Williams, Tigers17.2 
 5. Khazzouh, Sydney K.17.1 
 6. Worthington, Blaze16.8 
 7. Clark, Blaze16.6 
 8. Ballinger, 36ers16.0 
 9. Wilkinson, Breakers15.2 
 10. Ubaka, Taipans15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.10.4 
 2. Davidson, Hawks7.7 
 3. Vukona, Breakers7.5 
 4. Brown, Wildcats7.4 
 5. Nevill, Tigers7.4 
 6. Holmes, 36ers7.1 
 7. Williams, Tigers7.0 
 8. Worthington, Blaze7.0 
 9. Burston, Tigers6.9 
 10. Crosswhite, Taipa.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Corey WILLIAMS
  Tigers
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Williams, Tigers6.1 
 2. Gibson, Blaze5.6 
 3. Carter, 36ers4.6 
 4. Shannon, 36ers4.3 
 5. Saville, Hawks4.2 
 6. Ervin, Hawks4.2 
 7. Braswell, Breakers4.1 
 8. Ubaka, Taipans4.0 
 9. DeVries, 36ers3.4 
 10. Holmes, 36ers3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Martin, Wildcats2.1 
 2. Saville, Hawks1.6 
 3. Crawford, Croco.1.5 
 4. Braswell, Breakers1.4 
 5. Carter, 36ers1.3 
 6. Hill, 36ers1.3 
 7. Williams, Tigers1.2 
 8. Shannon, 36ers1.2 
 9. Ervin, Hawks1.2 
 10. Tovey, Wildcats1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Ater MAJOK
  Blaze
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 2
 1. Majok, Wildcats2.0 
 2. Ballinger, 36ers2.0 
 3. Khazzouh, Sydney K.1.9 
 4. Clark, Blaze1.3 
 5. Nevill, Tigers1.1 
 6. Schenscher, Croco.1.1 
 7. Worthington, Blaze1.1 
 8. Gilder, Sydney K.1.1 
 9. Crosswhite, Taipa.1.1 
 10. Sanders, Sydney K.0.9 


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


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


Opoku is LEB Silver bound and signs at ADT Tarragona - by Stefan Prager
Hermann Opoku (208-F-86, college: George Washington) is leaving the UBC St. Poelten to play in Spains LEB Silver. The 6'10'' big man inked with ADT Tarragona. After starting his career in St. Poelten in 2002 Opoku went to the United States where he played a solid four year stint at George Washington University in the NCAA. With the Colonials he won the Atlantic 10 tournament in 2007 which he considers as the biggest success of his career. After graduating Opoku came back to Austria this season to play for the UBC St. Poelten again. In 22 apperances this season Opoku averaged 9.9ppg along with 6.6rpg while shooting nearly 50% from the field.

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


Hala post stunning win over Manama - by Yousef Ahmed
STRUGGLING Al Hala stunned leaders Manama 97-87 last night to register a winning start to their second round campaign in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League, being played at Zain Arena in Um Al Hassam. Fresh from winning this year's Zain Bahrain Basketball Cup last week, Manama were in high spirits heading into the game. But they were soon brought back down to earth as Hala overcame the odds to register the surprising yet well-deserved result.

American professional Patrick Simpson (206-F-83, college: SMU) spearheaded the victors with a game-high 31 points and 8 rebounds. Bahraini veteran Ahmed Malallah did well to ably assist his frontcourt mate, finishing the game with 23. Hala, coach by Saleh Al Haddad of Bahrain, got off to a good start and took a 26-19 lead at the end of the first half. The victors maintained their fine form in the second, and managed to take a 47-40 lead into the half-time break.

Manama, however, were not going down without a fight, and they managed to claw their way back to within three points, 64-67, with one quarter to play. In the fourth though, Manama could not match Hala's end-game intensity, and the league leaders closed out the contest with a comfortable 10-point victory. Hala also relied on solid play from their supporting cast of Ahmed Ali, Hussain Muratadha, Ahmed Hajji and Ali Abbas in the victory.

Ahmed Al Mutawa (199-F/C-81, agency: Low Country Sports, college: Broward CC) almost had a triple-double with 18 points, 10 rebounds and 8 steals and Mohammed Hassan scored 17 points and lead Manama in the losing effort. US import Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami (FL)) had 14 points and 11 rebounds and guard Ahmed Abdulaziz had 14 points and 4 assists, who are guided by American coach Jason Rabedeaux (agency: Edge Sports ).

With the result, Hala claimed only their third victory in 10 games but have gotten off on the right foot in the league's second round-robin. Manama, on the other hand, suffered only their second defeat after 10 meetings. Despite the loss, they remained in tied-first place on the league table with arch-rivals Muharraq.

League action continues tonight with defending league champions Al Ahli locking horns with Al Ettihad.



Source GDN by PATRICK SALOMON. Posted on Friday, February 18, 2011



Standings
Premier League Stage Two Standings
 1. Muharraq 8-2 
 2. Al Manama 8-2 
 3. Al Ahli 7-2 
 4. Nuwaidrat 6-4 
 5. Sitra 6-4 
 6. Issa Town 5-5 
 7. Al Ittihad 4-5 
 8. Al Hala 3-7 
Stage One Standings


*****************************************************
  BELIZE   


BTL U17 opening at the Delille Academy in Dangriga!!! - by David Magana
To start the season, three U17 games were played this past Saturday, February 12 at the Delille Academy basketball court.

In the first game of the BTL-U17 season Harlem overwhelmed the Cadet Trailblazers 71-14. Harlem featured four players with Dangriga Basketball Association (DBA) U19 tournament experience as well as much anticipated 5-7 point guard Brandon Castillo. Castillo did not disappoint in his DBA debut netting 15 points, 6 steals and 2 assists to power the Harlem attack. While Castillo controlled the perimeter, Dominique Nicholas and Shai Peters dominated the paint with 18 and 12 rebounds respectively, while adding 10 points each. The cadets were out-matched but Francis Noralez did manage to slip in 6 points and 10 rebounds to be the lone bright spot for his team.

Game 2 promised to be a more even measure as the competing teams Hopkins and Back-a-town Warriors seemed to have similar talent level. The Warriors, powered by 6-2 Georgetown Technical Center, Brandon Flowers, and 6-3 Frank Williams, edged out a lead at the end of every quarter to walk away with the 32-24 victory. Flowers imposed his way to 14 points, 16 rebounds and 5 blocked shots, while Williams poured in 8 points to go with 16 rebounds and 3 blocked shots. The defense of the warriors anchored by Flowers and Williams held all Hopkins players in single digits. Hyden Casimiro, of the DBA 2010 U19 championships Hopkins finished with 7 points and 9 rebounds. Joshua Rodriguez contributed 9 points and 5 rebounds, while Adrian Casimiro had 10 rebounds.

The late evening third game featured the Foreshore Spartans with 7 players returning from their DBA 2010 U19 team, which finished that tournament with a 2-5 record. This year, however, the feel like they are the team to beat in this U17 tournament, given their U19 experience. After a slow first quarter start, the Spartans pushed to a 5 point halftime lead. Led by standout point guard Hubert Usher, who tallied in 10 points and 7 steals, the Spartans increased their defensive pressure in the second half to seal the 31-19 win. The Blazin Heats did not seem to be able to mount any sustained run in the second half, but were kept in the game by the poor free throw shooting of the Spartans. Trevon Mitchell had 8 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists for the Spartans, Hasaan Lucas and Highking Roberts, of the Heats, both had 5 points in the loss.

DBA press release.
http://bbfbelize.org/



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


Igokea tests Maksim Kovacevic - by Eurobasket News
Igokea has brought in Maksim Kovacevic (199-G/F-87) for try-out. Young Serbian guard has so far been playing his trade as member of Superfund. He will spend next few days with the team and then the club will decide will they sign him for rest of the season. Igokea has been suffering injuries to some of its important players so this has prompted them to look for alternatives. Whether this deal will finalize will be known soon.
Maksim Kovacevic is a product of Partizan youth system. He made his professional debut during 2005-2006 season as member of Partizan II. At the start of 2007-2008 he moved to Novi Sad where in 20 games he has averaged 5.8 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Following year he upped his averages to 12.4 points and 3.8 rebounds in 20 games played. He finished the season as member of Vojvodina Novi Sad. Last season, Kovacevic was a regular member of Novi Sad staring five. He appeared in 24 games and has averaged 13.3 points and 3.6 boards per game. So far in his career he has represented Serbia at the U20 European Championships in Slovenia where he won the gold medal.

Sime Sparlja out for the season? - by Eurobasket News
Bad news for Siroki TT Kabeli as they are set to lose their captain for the rest of the season. Reportedly, Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) is facing a lengthy layoff due to back injury. Spralja helped Siroki beat BC Bosna and win National Cup this past weekend but it seems that he has aggravated back injury which has been bothering him for a while. After initial exams, it is expected that Spralja will have to miss the rest of the season in order to heal properly. This is a major blow for Siroki and it remains to be seen whether they will bring in a replacement. Prior to getting injured, Spralja has 13.2 points and 4.6 rebounds in 20 Adriatic League games played.
Sime Spralja is a long serving team captain who has so far in his career played for the likes of Zadar, Split and Siroki. He started the career off with BC Zadar where he played for 5 seasons. Than in 2005-2006 season he played for BC Split. On season later he moved to Siroki where he was one of the teams main players. Last season, Spralja has averaged 16.1 points and 5.5 rebounds, helping Siroki win the title. In Adriatic League, he was also good as he posted averages of 9.9 points and 3.5 rebounds in 24 games.

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


Stanislav Vaklinov out for three weeks - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Bulgarian media, Rilski Sportist is set to lose one of its young forwards for several weeks. Reportedly, Stanislav Vaklinov (206-F-89, agency: Interperformances) is facing three weeks on the sidelines due to injury. Vaklinov has been experiencing trouble with his knee, and further examinations revealed that the best course of treatment is rest. So far, Vaklinov has averaged 8.3 points and 5.1 rebounds in 17 games played. In BIBL, he made 7 appearances and has averaged 6.4 points and 5.4 boards.
Stanislav Vaklinov is a product of Rilski Sportist youth system. He has made Senior Team debut in 2007 when he appeared in 22 games and has averaged 2.8 points and 1.6 rebounds. He gradually continued to improve his game and following season he averaged 3.3 points and 1.7 rebounds in 16 games. Last season, Vaklinov improvement stalled somewhat as he averaged 1.6 points and 1.8 rebounds in 23 games played. So far, Vaklinov has represented Bulgaria at U18 and U20 level. In 2009, he played at the U20 European Championship Division B in Macedonia. In 6 games he averaged 7.7 points and 3.0 rebounds per contest.

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


Lions hammer Paladins, clinch fifth in OUA East - by Eurobasket News
Ostap Choliy scored a game-high 27 points and the York University Lions men's basketball team had their first 100-point game of the season in a 122-44 drubbing of the Royal Military College Paladins on Saturday (Feb. 12).

The 78-point win is the largest margin of victory for the Lions this season.

With the win, the Lions will finish no lower than fifth in the OUA East this season, which means they are heading to the playoffs again.

Seven different Lions Choliy (Oakville, Ont.), Aaron Rados (Ottawa), Christian Coldea (201-F) (Toronto), David Tyndale (Mississauga, Ont.), Nick Tufegdzich (Tecumseh, Ont.), Stefan Haynes (North York, Ont.) and Justin Bell (Mississauga, Ont.) all scored in double digits.

Choliy went an incredible 10-for-11 from the field, including a perfect 7-for-7 from beyond the arc, and led all scorers in shooting percentage at 90.0 per cent.

Haynes was second in team scoring with 16 points and had a game-high seven rebounds.

Tyndale added 10 points and is currently 11th in OUA scoring with 16.1 points per game.

Jonathon Wilson (188-G) (Windsor, Ont.) and Nicolas Cooke (206-F-88) (Toronto) both led the Paladins in scoring with 11 points each.

The Lions opened the game with a huge first quarter in which they outscored the Paladins 31-4 and set the tone for the remainder of the game.

The Paladins improved their play through the final three quarters, but they did not have an answer for the Lions' hot offence. The Lions outscored the Paladins 24-13, 39-15 and 28-12 in the second, third and fourth quarters, respectively, en route to the lopsided win.

The Lions (9-12) have 18 points this season and have clinched fifth place in the OUA East regardless of the result in their final game on Friday night. Sixth-place Laurentian is four points back with just one game remaining, while Ryerson holds the tiebreaker for fourth if the two teams finish with the same record.

The Lions will play their final game of the season next Friday (Feb. 18) when they host the Voyageurs at Tait McKenzie Centre. Tip off goes at 8pm.

By Cody Powell, sport writing assistant
Courtesy of: http://www.yorkulions.ca

CIS men's basketball Wednesday roundup - by Eurobasket News
Saint Mary's 62 Dalhousie 84
Guelph 83 Brock 80

St. Catharine's, Ont. The Guelph Gryphon men's basketball team defeated the Brock Badgers 83-80 tonight on the road in St. Catharines. The Gryphons record moves to 9-12 as they keep their playoff hopes alive in the OUA West Division.

The Gryphons outscored Brock 24-27 in the fourth en route to the victory. Jonathan Moscatelli (193-G-86) (Toronto) and Dan McCarthy (Guelph, Ont.) led the Gryphons with 24 and 23 points respectively. McCarthy added 13 rebounds for the double-double. Kareem Malcolm (183-G) (Brampton, Ont.) scored 13 points and grabbed four steals.

Up next the Gryphons will host the Windsor Lancers this Saturday (Feb. 19) in their last regular season game of the season. Tip off will be at 4:00 p.m. at the W.F. Mitchell Athletic Centre.

Source: Guelph Sports Info

Laurier 77 Waterloo 64
WATERLOO, Ont. - Entering the game on a three game losing streak, the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks were finally able to end their slide with a 77-64 win over their cross-town rivals, the Waterloo Warriors.
With the win Laurier moves to 13-8 and locks up third place in the OUA West with only one game remaining in the regular season.

Laurier started strongly, grabbing a 17-14 lead in the first quarter and extended it in the second, outscoring Waterloo 20-18, going into the locker room with a 37-32 lead.

The Hawks continued their strong play in the third quarter outscoring Waterloo 21-17, taking a 58-49 lead into the final quarter of play. The fourth quarter saw more of the same from Laurier, topping Waterloo 19-15 in the final quarter to finish off the Warriors for the easy 77-64 win.

The team outshot Waterloo 42.7% to 36.1%, and out-rebounded the Warriors 48-38. Laurier converted Waterloo's eight turnovers into 10 points.

The OUA's second leading scorer Kale Harrison (Stratford, Ont.) continued his impressive season with a game-high 26 points and seven rebounds. Sharif Wanas (Burlington, Ont.) scored 15 points, thanks in large part to shooting 6-for-6 from the field, he also added nine rebounds. Matthew Buckley (Waterloo, Ont.) had his sixth double-double of the season with 11 points and 14 rebounds. Jamar Forde (191-G) (Mississauga, Ont.) scored eight points and added nine rebounds and Maxwell Allin (Chatham, Ont.) had eight points and five rebounds.

Waterloo was led by Tim Rossy (Winnipeg, MB) who scored 16 points, and Brendan Smith (201-F-89) (Kamloops, Ont,) added 12 points. Mike Wright (180-G-91) (Burlington, Ont.) had 13 points, while Alan Goodhoofd (Oakville, Ont.) had eight points and 11 rebounds.

Laurier (13-8) closes its season out on February 19th at 3p.m. against the Brock Badgers (8-13). Waterloo (8-13) will finish its season off against McMaster (11-10) on February 19th at 2p.m.

Source: Laurier Sports Info


McMaster 73 Windsor 77
WINDSOR, Ont. - The Windsor Lancers Men's Basketball team held off a pesky McMaster Marauders squad 77-73 on Wednesday night at the St. Denis Centre.

With the victory, the Lancers improve to 15-6 in conference play and remain in second place in the OUA West Division.

The Lancers got a strong performance from Lien Phillip who finished with 13 points and 16 rebounds to hold off the Marauders for the win.

Wednesday evening's game was also Senior Night as the Lancers paid tribute to their three graduating seniors Monty Hardware, Andre Smyth and Isaac Kuon.

After a slow start by both teams, Windsor built a slight three-point lead, 17-14 after one quarter of play.

The Marauders responded with a big second quarter as they outscored Windsor 25-15 to take a seven-point halftime lead, 39-32. McMaster's Kenan Etale led the way as he penetrated the Lancer defense for a number of quality baskets.

The third quarter saw both teams go back and forth as McMaster maintained their single digit lead throughout the frame, 56-48.

In the fourth was where the Lancers came to life as they began to work the ball inside to Lien Phillip as well as knock down some open outside shots.

Windsor was able to eliminate the deficit and tie the game at 70-70 with a minute remaining in the contest.

In the final minute, the Lancers converted their free throws and played some tenacious defense to earn the hard fought 77-73 victory.

In addition to Phillip's strong game, the Lancers got 12 points and 4 assists from Josh Collins (186-G-90) and 14 points from Enrico Diloreto. Isaac Kuon also added 20 points.

The Lancers will travel to Guelph on Saturday for their final regular season game of the season against the Gryphons.

From there, they will get a bye through the OUA West Quarter-Finals and will then host the OUA West Semi-Finals on Saturday, February 26th @ 7pm at the St. Denis Centre.

Source: Windsor Sports Info



CIS Standings
CIS Standings
Atlantic
 1. Cape Breton 16-1 
 2. Dalhousie 12-5 
 3. St.Francis X. 11-5 
 4. New Brunsw. 8-9 
 5. UPEI 7-11 
 6. St.Mary's 6-12 
 7. Acadia 4-11 
 8. Memorial 3-13 
CanWest
 1. Trinity West. 21-3 
 2. UBC 20-2 
 3. Saskatchewan 18-4 
 4. Alberta 16-8 
 5. Victoria 15-7 
 6. Regina 12-10 
 7. Manitoba 9-13 
 8. UCFV 8-14 
 9. Calgary 8-14 
 10. Lethbridge 6-16 
 11. Winnipeg 5-17 
 12. Brandon 4-18 
 13. Thompson R. 4-20 
OUA East
 1. Carleton 20-0 
 2. Toronto Univ. 14-6 
 3. Ottawa 11-9 
 4. Ryerson 9-11 
 5. York 9-12 
 6. Laurentian 6-14 
 7. Queen's 5-16 
 8. RMC 0-20 
OUA West
 1. Lakehead 16-4 
 2. Windsor 14-6 
 3. Laurier 13-7 
 4. Western 10-9 
 5. McMaster 10-10 
 6. Guelph 8-12 
 7. Waterloo 8-12 
 8. Brock 8-13 
Quebec League
 1. Laval 10-4 
 2. Concordia 10-4 
 3. McGill 9-5 
 4. UQAM 5-9 
 5. Bishop's 1-13 


*****************************************************
  CHILE   


Basketball preseason update - by Rodrigo Hunrichse
* Basketball preseason update, 20110214

Some teams are starting the preseason before their tournaments in March, we'll try to give you some info if available.

The Copa Chile Tournament was announced to be open to any club, distributed geographically in groups of 4 up to 6, where there is a chance for less known teams to play with a Superior team, a Nacional and a Promotional team. In home and away games. A playoff series then would be played, it all depends on the number of participants.
The calendar is set to follow the FIBA international calendar, so:
* Copa Chile Ends of March until Ends of June
* July is for National teams
* August the start of the Superior League

So far the confirmed teams are:

South Zone
Ancud; Osorno Bsquetbol ; Espaol de Osorno ;Deportes Valdivia ; Universidad Austral ; Alemn de Concepcin ; Universidad de Concepcin ; Espaol de Talca ; Club Las Animas de Valdivia; Club Arabe de Rancagua.

Metropolitan Zone
Boston College ; Municipal Puente Alto ; Universidad Catlica ; Club Providencia ; Universidad de Chile ; Universidad Santiago ; Estadio Italiano ; Estadio Espaol ; Club Palestino ; Club Brisas ; Club El Sabueso ; Club Cefiros ; Estrella de Molinas ; Club Pac ; Club Deportivo Inba ; Club The Shadows de Quilicura ; Club Luis Matte L. de P. Alto; Club Sergio Ceppi.

North Center Zone
Club Los Leones ; SSCC de Via ; Liceo Mixto ; Arturo Prat de San Felipe ; rabe de San Felipe ; Apacemb de Curacav ;Asociacin de Salamanca.

The inscriptions are still open to any eligible team, SO APPLY NOW.


*****************************************************
  CHINA   


Xinjiang, Dongguan, Guangdong Score Big Wins - by Arthur Volbert
First-place Xinjiang defeated Bayi 96-79. Quincy Douby had 26 points and 4 rebounds. Zhang QingPeng (189-G-81) had 25 points and 6 assists. James Singleton had 19 points and 10 rebounds. Xirelijiang (Co Tal) had 10 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Xinjiang held Wang Zhizhi to 9 points and 5 rebounds. Mo Ke led Bayi with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Li Ke had 11 points and 5 rebounds. Xu Zhonghao had 10 points and 4 rebounds. Wang Lei scored 9.

Dongguan defeated Zhejiang 121-104. Josh Akognon had 37 points and 8 rebounds. Jackson Vroman had 23 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals. Qiu Biao scored 20. Zhang Kai had 13 points and 10 rebounds. Chen Hsin-An scored 12 and Meng Duo had 10. Marcus Williams had 31 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for Zhejiang. Josh Boone had 15 points and 9 rebounds. Chen Zhaosheng and Zhang Chunjun each scored 14. Cao Fei had 10 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists.

Not using veterans Zhu Fangyu and Du Feng, Guangdong scored a second straight blowout victory with its younger players by defeating Qingdao 132-100. Lester Hudson had 24 points and 13 rebounds. Marcus Haislip had 20 points and 13 rebounds. Zhou Peng had 19 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Wang Zheng had 16 points and 7 rebounds. Su Wei had 14 points and 6 rebounds. Wang Shipeng scored 12. Dong Hanlin had 11 points and 6 rebounds. Charles Gaines had 52 points and 12 rebounds for Qingdao. Dee Brown had 18 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists.

Led by young stars Han Dejun and Guo Ailun, Liaoning defeated Tianjin 92-82. 7-1 300 pound Han had 22 points and 13 rebounds in 31 minutes. Guo had 21 points, 3 rebounds and 6 steals in 39 minutes. Li Xiaoxu had 10 points and 17 rebounds. Anthony Myles had 10 points and 7 rebounds in 16 minutes. He Tianju had 10 points and 6 rebounds. Donta Smith did not play. Herve Lamizana had 23 points and 13 rebounds for Tianjin. Xu Guijun had 20 points and 9 rebounds. Vernon Hamilton had 12 points and 5 rebounds. Wang Hao scored 11.

Shanxi defeated Jilin 116-94. Leon Rodgers had 24 points and 8 rebounds. Duan Jiangpeng scored 23. Osama Daghlas had 19 points, 9 rebounds and 15 assists. Shang Ping had 15 points and 10 rebounds. Zhang Xuewen scored 16. Tim Pickett had 31 points for Jilin. Jameel Watkins had 21 points and 7 rebounds. Li Tao scored 14. Yu Shulong had 12 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists.

Beijing beat Shanghai 111-98. Randolph Morris had 31 points and 11 rebounds. Zaid Abbas had 23 points and 14 rebounds. Xie Libin scored 14 and Joe Crawford had 13. Men Wei had 12 points and 5 rebounds. Chen Lei and Wang Xiaohui each scored 9. Mike Harris had 29 points and 12 rebounds for Shanghai. Liu Wei had 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. John Lucas had 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Peng Fei and Wang Yong each scored 9.

Hu Xuefeng had 27 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals as Jiangsu edged Shandong 100-95. Jerome Moiso had 17 points and 14 rebounds. Antoine Wright had 19 points and 8 rebounds. Yi Li had 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Liu Yahui scored 11. Sun Jie scored 25 for Shandong. Li Lin scored 22. Rodney White had 17 points, 22 rebounds and 6 assists. Myron Allen had 13 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists.

The Zhejiang Lions defeated Foshan 106-92. Rafer Alston scored 25. Peter John Ramos had 22 points and 11 rebounds. Lin Chih-Chieh had 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Zhang Wei also scored 21. Stephon Marbury had 27 points and 5 assists for Foshan. Zheng Zhun had 17 points and 13 rebounds. Yang Wenbo had 14 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Olumide Oyedeji had 12 points and 12 rebounds. Zhao Yonggang scored 11.


CBA Round 25: Xinjiang Flying Tige beats Bayi Fubang in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Urumqi. First ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige faced 4th placed Bayi Fubang. Host Xinjiang Flying Tige (22-1) defeated guests from Ningbo (13-11) 96-79. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 40-16 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Xinjiang Flying Tige shot the lights out from three sinking 17 long-distance shots on high 51.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) fired 26 points for the winners. International guard QingPeng Zhang (189-81) chipped in 25 points and 6 assists. The former international center Ke Mo (210-82) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for lost side. Bayi Fubang's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Xinjiang Flying Tige have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 22-1 record. Bayi Fubang at the other side dropped to the seventh position with 11 games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige are looking forward to face Shanghai Sharks (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bayi Fubang will play against Shandong Bulls (#9) in Jinan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Qingdao. Local Qingdao Double Star (9-14) was outscored by third ranked Guandong Tigers (17-7) 132-100. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. Marcus Haislip contributed with 20 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) answered with a double-double by scoring 52 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds (on 21-of-26 shooting from the field) for Qingdao Double Star. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Guandong Tigers maintains third place with 17-7 record having four points less than leader Xinjiang. Qingdao Double Star at the other side keeps the twelfth position with 14 games lost. They share it with Shanxi Zh.. Guandong Tigers will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#16) in Jinjiang in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Qingdao Double Star will play on the road against Jiangsu Dragons (#6) in Nanjing and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Other games of round 25 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Shandong were defeated by Jiangsu in Nanjing 100-95. Foshan was beaten by Zhejiang G.L. at home 92-106. Shanghai lost to Beijing on the opponent's court 98-111. Bottom-ranked TianJin R. unfortunately lost to Liaoning in a home game 82-92. Zhejiang C. recorded a loss to DongGuan on the road 104-121. Jilin was crushed by Shanxi Zh. on its own court 94-116.


Jiangsu - Shandong 100-95

There was no surprise in Nanjing where 9th ranked Shandong Bulls (11-12) were defeated by seventh ranked Jiangsu Dragons (13-10) 100-95. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Shandong Bulls won third quarter 25-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely Shandong Bulls outrebounded Jiangsu Dragons 54-41 including a 18-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Shandong Bulls were plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard XueFeng Hu (185-80) who helped to win the game recording 27 points and 4 assists. French power forward Jerome Moiso (208-78, college: UCLA) contributed with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. American forward Rodney White (206-80, college: Charlotte) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points, 22 rebounds and 6 assists and the former international guard Jie Sun (190-86) added 25 points in the effort for Shandong Bulls. Five Jiangsu Dragons and four Shandong Bulls players scored in double figures. Shandong Bulls' coach tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Jiangsu Dragons moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Beijing. Shandong Bulls at the other side keep the ninth position with 12 games lost. Jiangsu Dragons will play against Qingdao Double Star (#12) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Shandong Bulls will play against Bayi Fubang in Ningbo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Shandong: S.Jie 25+3ast, L.Li 22+6reb, W.Rodney 17+22reb+6ast, A.Myron 13+9reb+5ast, W.Ke 6+3reb, Z.Jinshuai 4+3reb
Jiangsu: H.XueFeng 27+4reb+4ast, W.Antoine 19+8reb, M.Jerome 17+14reb+2ast, Y.Li 17+7reb+4ast, L.Yahui 11+4reb+1ast, M.Da 7+3reb+2ast
gschID: 118517


Xinjiang - Bayi 96-79

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Urumqi. First ranked Xinjiang Flying Tige faced 4th placed Bayi Fubang. Host Xinjiang Flying Tige (22-1) defeated guests from Ningbo (13-11) 96-79. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 40-16 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Xinjiang Flying Tige shot the lights out from three sinking 17 long-distance shots on high 51.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) fired 26 points for the winners. International guard QingPeng Zhang (189-81) chipped in 25 points and 6 assists. Four Xinjiang Flying Tige players scored in double figures. The former international center Ke Mo (210-82) produced a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and the former international center Ke Li (207-81) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Bayi Fubang's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Xinjiang Flying Tige have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 22-1 record. Bayi Fubang at the other side dropped to the seventh position with 11 games lost. Xinjiang Flying Tige are looking forward to face Shanghai Sharks (#11) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bayi Fubang will play against Shandong Bulls (#9) in Jinan and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bayi: M.Ke 21+11reb+4ast, L.Ke 11+5reb+2ast, X.ZhongHao 10+4reb, H.Shuo 9+3reb+2ast, W.Lei 9+4reb+2ast, W.ZhiZhi 9+5reb+3ast
Xinjiang: D.Quincy 26+4reb+3ast, Z.QingPeng 25+2reb+6ast, S.James 19+10reb+2ast, C.Tal 10+4reb+3ast, X.GuoChong 6+4reb, M.Lati 4
gschID: 118518


Foshan - Zhejiang G.L. 92-106

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (14-10) defeated on the road 14th ranked Foshan (8-15) 106-92. It looked good early as Foshan took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Zhejiang Guangsha Lions had a 35-19 second period charge getting the lead and Foshan was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 92-106. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds. American guard Tre Kelley (182-85, college: S.Carolina) contributed with 25 points and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Stephon Marbury (187-77, college: Georgia Tech) answered with 27 points and 5 assists and center Zhun Zheng (214-92) added 17 points and 13 rebounds in the effort for Foshan. 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. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions moved-up to fourth place. Foshan lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the fifteenth position with 15 games lost. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions will play against league's second-placed DongGuan Leopards on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Foshan will play against Liaoning Hunters (#10) in Yingkou and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Foshan: M.Stephon 27+5ast, Z.Zhun 17+13reb+1ast, Y.Wenbo 14+6reb+5ast, O.Olumide 12+12reb+1ast, Z.Yong-gang 11+1reb+1ast, H.Ben 8+7reb
Zhejiang G.L.: K.Tre 25+3reb+4ast, R.Peter John 22+11reb, L.Chih-Chieh 21+5reb+5ast, Z.Wei 21+3reb, W.Fei 8+2reb+1ast, L.Meng 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 118519


Qingdao DS - Guandong 100-132

The game with biggest result difference took place in Qingdao. Local Qingdao Double Star (9-14) was outscored by third ranked Guandong Tigers (17-7) 132-100. The game was mostly controlled by Guandong Tigers. Qingdao Double Star was better in third quarter 38-35. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guandong Tigers dominated down low during the game scoring 90 of its points in the paint compared to Qingdao Double Star's 68. They outrebounded Qingdao Double Star 62-36 including a 23-12 advantage in offensive rebounds. Qingdao Double Star was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Marcus Haislip (207-80, college: Tennessee) contributed with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Five Guandong Tigers players scored in double figures. Forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) answered with a double-double by scoring 52 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds (on 21-of-26 shooting from the field) and guard Dee Brown (185-84, college: Illinois) added 18 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists in the effort for Qingdao Double Star. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Guandong Tigers maintains third place with 17-7 record having four points less than leader Xinjiang. Qingdao Double Star at the other side keeps the twelfth position with 14 games lost. They share it with Shanxi Zh.. Guandong Tigers will play against Fujian SBS XunXin (#16) in Jinjiang in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Qingdao Double Star will play on the road against Jiangsu Dragons (#6) in Nanjing and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Qingdao DS: G.Charles 52+10reb+1ast, B.Dee 18+7reb+8ast, L.Gen 8+3reb+1ast, C.Liang 7+7reb, A.Zaid 5+7reb, L.Ke-ming 4
Guandong: H.Lester 24+13reb+4ast, H.Marcus 20+17reb+1ast, Z.Peng 19+4reb+4ast, W.Zheng 16+7reb, S.Wei 14+6reb, W.ShiPeng 12+1reb+1ast
gschID: 118520


Beijing - Shanghai 111-98

Very expected game when 10th ranked Shanghai Sharks (10-14) were defeated on the road by sixth ranked Beijing Ducks (13-10) 111-98. The game was mostly controlled by Beijing Ducks. Shanghai Sharks was better in second period 32-27. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Shanghai Sharks were plagued by 30 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 31 points and 11 rebounds. Jordanian forward Zaid Abbaas (203-83) contributed with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Five Beijing Ducks players scored in double figures. American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) answered with a double-double by scoring 29 points and 12 rebounds and international guard Wei LiuWei (190-80) added 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists in the effort for Shanghai Sharks. Shanghai Sharks' coach tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Beijing Ducks moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Jiangsu. Shanghai Sharks at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 14 games lost. Beijing Ducks will play against Shanxi Zhongyu (#13) in Taiyuan in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Shanghai Sharks will play on the road against the league's leader Xinjiang Flying Tige in Urumqi and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Shanghai: H.Mike 29+12reb+1ast, L.John 18+7reb+4ast, L.Wei 17+7reb+7ast, W.Yong-Liang 9+6reb+1ast, P.Fei 9+4reb+1ast, W.Ligang 6+1reb
Beijing: M.Randolph 31+11reb+2ast, A.Zaid 23+14reb+2ast, X.LiBin 14+2reb+5ast, C.Joe 13+4reb+2ast, M.Wei 12+5reb+1ast, C.Lei 9+2reb+1ast
gschID: 118514


TianJin R. - Liaoning 82-92

Very predictable result in Tianjin where eleventh ranked Liaoning Hunters (11-13) beat bottom-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (4-19) 92-82. It looked good early as TianJin Rongcheng took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Liaoning Hunters had a 31-22 second period charge getting the lead and TianJin Rongcheng was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 82-92. Liaoning Hunters dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to TianJin Rongcheng's 44. They outrebounded TianJin Rongcheng 54-41 including 17 on the offensive glass. It was a very good performance for center Dejun Han (215-89) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds. The former international center Xiaoxu Li (207-90) contributed with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Ivorian-French power forward Herve Lamizana (207-81, college: Rutgers) answered with a triple-double by scoring 23 points, 13 rebounds and 10 blocks and forward GuiJun Xu (202-80) added 20 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for TianJin Rongcheng. Five Liaoning Hunters and four TianJin Rongcheng players scored in double figures. TianJin Rongcheng's coach tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to tenth place. TianJin Rongcheng lost their third game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Liaoning Hunters will play against Foshan (#15) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. TianJin Rongcheng will play against Jilin Tigers in Changchun and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
TianJin R.: L.Herve 23+13reb+2ast, X.GuiJun 20+9reb, H.Vernon 12+5reb+4ast, W.Hao 11+1reb, Z.Nan 7+4reb+2ast, X.Lei 5+2reb+1ast
Liaoning: H.Dejun 22+13reb+1ast, G.Ailun 21+3reb+2ast, L.Xiaoxu 10+17reb+3ast, M.Anthony 10+7reb, H.Tian-ju 10+6reb+2ast, Y.Ming 8+2reb+3ast
gschID: 118515


DongGuan - Zhejiang C. 121-104

Not a big story in a game when 8th ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (12-12) were defeated on the road by second ranked DongGuan Leopards (19-4) 121-104. Zhejiang Cyclones were ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 66-48 second half run of DongGuan Leopards. They dominated down low during the game scoring 78 of its points in the paint compared to Zhejiang Cyclones' 54 and made 22-of-26 charity shots (84.6 percent) during the game. DongGuan Leopards brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was a very good performance for Nigerian guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) who helped to win the game recording 37 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds. American-Lebanese power forward Jackson Vroman (208-81, college: Iowa St.) contributed with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American forward Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: ZAG Advocates) answered with 31 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and the other American import power forward Josh Boone (208-84, college: Connecticut) added 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks in the effort for Zhejiang Cyclones. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Zhejiang Cyclones' coach tested eleven players seeing no chance for a win. DongGuan Leopards maintains second place with 19-4 record having just three points less than leader Xinjiang. Zhejiang Cyclones at the other side keep the eighth position with 12 games lost. DongGuan Leopards will play against Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (#4) in Hangzhou in the next round. Zhejiang Cyclones will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Zhejiang C.: W.Marcus 31+7reb+7ast, B.Josh 15+9reb, Z.Chunjun 14+10reb, C.ZhaoShen 14+6reb, C.Fei 10+3reb+3ast, W.DaYong 8+3reb+1ast
DongGuan: A.Josh-Emmanuel 37+8reb+2ast, V.Jackson 23+5reb+5ast, Q.Biao 20+4reb+1ast, Z.Kai 13+10reb+1ast, C.HsinAn 12+3reb+2ast, P.Duo 10+2reb+1ast
gschID: 118516


Jilin - Shanxi Zh. 94-116

There was a small surprise in Changchun where fifteenth ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (9-14) outleveled 13th ranked Jilin Tigers (9-15) 116-94. The game without a history. Shanxi Zhongyu led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 74 of its points in the paint compared to Jilin Tigers' 48. They outrebounded Jilin Tigers 45-27 including a 32-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. Shanxi Zhongyu players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. It was a very good performance for Jordanian guard Osama Daghlas (199-79, college: Midwestern St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points, 9 rebounds and 15 assists. American forward Leon Rodgers (199-80, college: N.Illinois) contributed with 24 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Tim Pickett (193-81, college: Florida St.) answered with 31 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) added 21 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Jilin Tigers. Five Shanxi Zhongyu and four Jilin Tigers players scored in double figures. Jilin Tigers' coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the third consecutive win for Shanxi Zhongyu. They moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Qingdao DS. Jilin Tigers at the other side dropped to the fourteenth position with 15 games lost. Shanxi Zhongyu will play against higher ranked Beijing Ducks (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Jilin Tigers will play against TianJin Rongcheng (#17) in Tianjin and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Jilin: P.Tim 31+6reb+3ast, W.Jameel 21+7reb+2ast, L.Tao 14, Y.Shulong 12+4reb+3ast, Z.Cheng 7+2reb, L.Wei 6+5reb
Shanxi Zh.: R.Leon 24+8reb+1ast, D.JiangPeng 23+2reb, D.Osama 19+9reb+15ast, Z.XueWen 16+6reb+2ast, P.Shang 15+10reb, Z.Biao 8+3reb
gschID: 118513




Standings - CBA
CBA Standings
 1. Xinjiang 22-1 
 2. DongGuan 19-4 
 3. Guandong 17-7 
 4. Zhejiang G.L. 14-10 
 5. Beijing 13-10 
 6. Jiangsu 13-10 
 7. Bayi 13-11 
 8. Zhejiang C. 12-12 
 9. Shandong 11-12 
 10. Liaoning 11-13 
 11. Shanghai 10-14 
 12. Qingdao DS 9-14 
 13. Shanxi Zh. 9-14 
 14. Jilin 9-15 
 15. Foshan 8-15 
 16. Fujian 5-18 
 17. TianJin R. 4-19 


Stats Leaders - CBA
Points Per Game
 Charles GAINES
  Qingdao DS
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 33.3
 1. Gaines, Qingdao DS33.3 
 2. Morris, Beijing29.4 
 3. Douby, Xinjiang29.0 
 4. Rodgers, Shanxi Zh.28.1 
 5. Emmett, Fujian27.6 
 6. Williams, Zhejiang C.27.6 
 7. Pickett, Jilin26.6 
 8. Akognon, DongGuan26.1 
 9. Harris, Shanghai25.3 
 10. Marbury, Foshan25.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwayne JONES
  Fujian
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 16.3
 1. Jones, Fujian16.3 
 2. Harris, Shanghai14.7 
 3. Benson, TianJin R.14.6 
 4. Gaines, Qingdao DS14.1 
 5. Ramos, Zhejiang.13.7 
 6. Watkins, Jilin13.4 
 7. Oyedeji, Foshan12.7 
 8. Moiso, Jiangsu12.7 
 9. Morris, Beijing11.5 
 10. Taggart, Shanxi Zh.11.5 
Assists Per Game
 Osama DAGHLAS
  Shanxi Zh.
  (199-G-79)
  Avg: 9.4
 1. Daghlas, Shanxi Zh.9.4 
 2. Marbury, Foshan6.5 
 3. Hu, Jiangsu5.6 
 4. Vroman, DongGuan5.2 
 5. Lu, Fujian5.2 
 6. Brown, Qingdao DS5.2 
 7. LiuWei, Shanghai5.0 
 8. Allen, Shandong4.8 
 9. Green, Shanghai4.8 
 10. Jones, Guandong4.6 
Steals Per Game
 XueFeng HU
  Jiangsu
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Hu, Jiangsu4.1 
 2. Douby, Xinjiang3.4 
 3. Hudson, Guandong3.0 
 4. Vroman, DongGuan2.9 
 5. Emmett, Fujian2.6 
 6. Akognon, DongGuan2.5 
 7. Zhong, Jilin2.4 
 8. Gaines, Qingdao DS2.3 
 9. Brown, Qingdao DS2.2 
 10. Smith, Liaoning2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Herve LAMIZANA
  TianJin R.
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Lamizana, TianJ.3.9 
 2. Watkins, Jilin2.1 
 3. Jones, Fujian1.9 
 4. Moiso, Jiangsu1.8 
 5. Boone, Zhejiang C.1.8 
 6. Vroman, DongGuan1.7 
 7. Zhang, Shanghai1.7 
 8. Haislip, Guandong1.6 
 9. Wang, Bayi1.6 
 10. Benson, TianJin R.1.5 


*****************************************************
  CROATIA   


Branimir Longin extends his stay with Zadar - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Croatian media, BC Zadar management has decided to offer Branimir Longin (196-G-78) contract until the end of the season. Longing has been with the club since January on a one month deal. He has satisfied the coaching staff with his play and they have decided to offer him a chance to finish the season as they value his experience.
Branimir Longin started his career with BC Zadar in 1996. Since then he has went on to play mainly for Zadar and Cibona in Croatia with whom he has won a host of trophies. He has lifted national Title on two occasions in 2001 and 2002 as member of Cibona. Also with Cibona, he has won three consecutive National Cups in 2001, 2002 and 2003. Longin also possesses great international experience having played for the likes of Caja San Fernando Sevilla and EWE Baskets Oldenburg. In 2008, Longin returned to Cibona with whom he has won another National Cup. At the start of last season he has moved to Jadran who is playing in Croatian A2 League and later on signed with Siroki Eronet. He helped them win the National Title.

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


Standings - Division A
Division A Standings
 1. APOEL 11-3 
 2. Keravnos 10-4 
 3. Apollon 9-5 
 4. Etha 9-5 
 5. Achilleas 8-7 
 6. AEK 5-10 
 7. Omonia 5-11 
 8. AEL 4-10 
 9. ENAD 4-10 


New signing for Proteas Danoi AEL - by Michael Aristidou
Proteas Danoi AEL has sign Serbian center Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) for the rest of the season. The Serbian player will replace Ivan Hoker who left from the team. Proteas Danoi AEL is looking to strength up their team due to their participation to the cup final against InterCollege Etha Engomis.
Head coach Linos Gavriel seems to be happy with the last addition to his squad having another player in the position of center.


A1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Joel CAMACHO
  Apollon
  (196-G/F-81)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Camacho, Apollon17.7 
 2. Diamantopoul., Achill.17.5 
 3. Dunovic, Omonia17.4 
 4. Aleksic, AEK16.4 
 5. Radunovic, ENAD16.1 
 6. McLain, Omonia16.0 
 7. Hanavan, AP.15.2 
 8. Davis, AP.15.0 
 9. Djikanovic, Achilleas14.8 
 10. King, Etha14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Anthony KING
  Etha
  (206-F/C-85)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. King, Etha10.4 
 2. Djikanovic, Achilleas10.3 
 3. Radunovic, ENAD8.8 
 4. Aleksic, AEK7.8 
 5. McLain, Omonia6.9 
 6. Buljan, AP.6.8 
 7. Johnson, Keravnos6.7 
 8. Camacho, Apollon6.2 
 9. Radojevic, Omonia5.9 
 10. Collins, ENAD5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Miguel Ali BERDIEL
  AEK
  (198-G-83)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Berdiel, AEK4.7 
 2. Stiggers, Apollon4.4 
 3. Kounounis, AEL3.8 
 4. Diamantopoul., Achill.3.5 
 5. Lee, AP.3.5 
 6. Cummings, Keravnos3.4 
 7. Dunovic, Omonia3.4 
 8. Razis, ENAD3.3 
 9. Aleksic, AEK3.2 
 10. Price, ENAD3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Georgios PALALAS
  AEL
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Palalas, AEL2.5 
 2. Tiggs, AP.2.4 
 3. Kent, ENAD1.8 
 4. Hanavan, AP.1.8 
 5. Berdiel, AEK1.6 
 6. Radunovic, ENAD1.6 
 7. Dunovic, Omonia1.6 
 8. Diamantopoul., Achill.1.6 
 9. Price, ENAD1.6 
 10. Johnson, Etha1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Anthony KING
  Etha
  (206-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2
 1. King, Etha2.0 
 2. Wyatt, AEL2.0 
 3. Collins, ENAD1.7 
 4. Radojevic, Omonia1.4 
 5. Johnson, Keravnos1.2 
 6. Collins, AEK1.0 
 7. Dials, Apollon0.8 
 8. Fells, Keravnos0.8 
 9. Englicky, Apollon0.7 
 10. Camacho, Apollon0.6 


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


Rebounding Leader Boris Meno Heads to Svitavy - by Surujh Roopnarine
Coming off a season-best performance against Basketbal Svitavy last weekend, NBL rebounding leader Boris Meno (203-F-83, college: Davidson) decided to join his opponents for the remainder of the season. After Brnos 95-66 thrashing of Basketbal Svitavy in Round 21, Meno, who scored a season high 24 points to go with 17 rebounds, left the South Moravian club to join last place Basketbal Svitavy. Well, last place in the first stage of regular season play, as in the A2 stage set to begin after this weekends final Round 22, Opava, Kolin, Brno, Praha, Pilsen and Svitavy will all start fresh as they play amongst one another for the rest of the season. Meno, the third-year forward out of Davidson leads the league in rebounding with a 10.4 per game average, the only player with double-digit rebounds per game. Though his scoring has dipped from 15.5 points per game last season to 9.7 this season, his field goal percentage has improved and his minutes been reduced. According to Meno, the recent turmoil at the top of Brnos management over this year has taken a toll and he felt that Basketbal Svitavy gave him a better chance to develop as a player while helping groom the young team. Besides a brief stint in France to begin his career, Meno has played exclusively in the NBL, first in Liberec and the past two seasons in Brno. He is expected to make his debut with Basketbal Svitavy tonight as they take on fellow bottom-dwellers Pilsen to kick off Round 22.

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


Danish Ligaen round 23 best performance: Christian Cavanaugh - by Eurobasket News
American center Christian Cavanaugh (207-C-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Svendborg Rabbits, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 24-year old player had a double-double of 21 points and 13 rebounds, while his team outclassed Amager BK (#9, 4-20) with 36-point margin 88-52. Svendborg maintains the 2nd position in Danish Ligaen. Svendborg has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 21-2. It was one of impressive evenings for Cavanaugh as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Christian Cavanaugh averages this season 11.7ppg and 5.1rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 23-year old American Lee Roberts (201-F/C-87) of Team FOG Naestved. Roberts had a very good evening with a double-double of 20 points and 15 rebounds. Of course he lead Naestved to another comfortable win 88-73 over the lower-ranked Aalborg (#10, 3-21) being unquestionably team leader. Naestved's 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 16-7 record is not bad at all. Roberts is a newcomer at Naestved, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.2ppg (#7). He also registered 13.0 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Marquis Hall (183-G-87) of Aalborg (#10). Hall scored 29 points and passed seven assists. He was a key player of Aalborg, leading his team to a 87-73 easy win against the higher-ranked Horsens IC (#5, 12-11). Aalborg can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 3-21 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Hall he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Hall has individually a great season in Denmark. After only 8 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.1ppg (5th best) and assists with 4.9apg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Edward Morris (203-F-84) of Aabyhoj - 25 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Barkley Falkner (203-F/C-86) of Aalborg - 18 points and 12 rebounds
6. Marquis Hall (183-G-87) of Aalborg - 26 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Donald Rutherford (198-F-87) of SISU - 27 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Nicolai Iversen (205-F/C-80) of Svendborg - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Bonell Colas (205-F-82) of Vaerlose - 17 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Alexander Bak (193-F-91) of Horsholm - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists

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

Ligaen Round 23: Horsholm loses to Svendborg in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
The teams have now bigger motivation at this stage of Regular Season. Every game can be crucial and decide about teams' position at the end.

The game between Top Four teams took place in Horsholm. 4th placed host Horsholm (14-9) lost to second ranked Svendborg (21-2) 78-65. The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 24-6 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Svendborg dominated on the defensive end, holding Horsholm to just 6 points in fourth quarter. They made 22-of-24 free shots (91.7 percent) during the game. Svendborg had a 28-14 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for the former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. American center Christian Cavanaugh (207-86, college: Oregon Tech) helped adding 14 points and 7 rebounds. Forward Alexander Bak (193-91) responded with 22 points and 4 assists. Svendborg have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. Defending champion maintains second place with 21-2 record behind leader Bakken. Horsholm at the other side keeps the fourth position with nine games lost. Svendborg are looking forward to face league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Horsholm will play at home against Naestved and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Aalborg managed to get a third victory. This time they won against fifth-ranked Horsens IC 87-73. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) who led the winners and scored 29 points and 7 assists. Barkley Falkner accounted for 18 points and 12 rebounds. The former international guard Alan Voskuil (191-86, college: Texas Tech) came up with 11 points and 7 rebounds for Horsens IC in the defeat. Aalborg maintains tenth place with 3-21 record. Horsens IC lost their third game in a row. They keep the fifth position with 11 games lost. Aalborg will play against higher ranked SISU (#6) in Copenhagen in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Horsens IC will play on the road against Naestved and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Ligaen top team - Bakken (22-1) added another victory to their record on Wednesday. This time they beat eighth ranked Aabyhoj (8-16) 67-60. The best player for the winners was Hristo Petkov who scored 14 points and 8 rebounds. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Edward Morris produced 25 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Bakken. They maintain first place with 22-1 record. Aabyhoj lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the eighth position with 16 games lost. Bakken will meet league's second-placed Svendborg on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Aabyhoj will play against Vaerlose (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Vaerlose was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Horsens IC (12-11) played at the court of 7th ranked Vaerlose (8-15). Horsens IC defeated Vaerlose 80-69. Alan Voskuil orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points and 4 steals. Horsens IC maintains fifth place with 12-11 record. Newly promoted Vaerlose keeps the seventh position with 15 games lost. Horsens IC's next round opponent will be higher ranked Naestved (#3) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Vaerlose will play against Aabyhoj (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Second ranked Svendborg (21-2) crushed at home 9th ranked Amager BK (4-20) by 36 points 88-52, which is the biggest margin this round on Wednesday night. Worth to mention a quality performance of Christian Cavanaugh who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 21 points, 13 rebounds and 4 blocks (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Svendborg's coach Craig Pedersen felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the seventh consecutive win for Svendborg. Defending champion maintains second place with 21-2 record behind leader Bakken. Amager BK lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the ninth position with 20 games lost. Svendborg will face league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Amager BK will play on the road against Horsens IC (#5) in Horsens.

In the last two games of round 23 SISU lost to Horsholm on the opponent's court 83-96. Naestved managed to outperform Aalborg in a home game 88-73.

Horsholm - SISU 96-83

Rather expected game when 6th ranked SISU (9-15) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked Horsholm (14-9) 96-83 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 30-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Horsholm made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for forward Alexander Bak (193-91) who led his team to a victory scoring 24 points and 5 assists. Forward Jonathan Gilling (203-91) helped adding 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. American forward Donald Rutherford (198-87, college: Catawba) responded with 27 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and the other American import swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) scored 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Horsholm maintains fourth place with 14-9 record. Loser SISU keeps the sixth position with 15 games lost. Horsholm will face higher ranked Naestved (#3) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. SISU will play against Aalborg.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: A.Bak 24+3reb+5ast, J.Gilling 20+5reb+4ast, J.Hakanowitz 18+7reb, F.Nielsen 11+5reb+6ast, B.Blackmon 9+4reb+2ast, P.Hertz 6+3reb+3ast
SISU: D.Rutherford 27+3reb+2ast, M.Nielsen 16+5reb+2ast, M.Dennis 15+5reb+5ast, M.Brown 12+8reb+1ast, M.Christensen 5+3reb, D.Harder 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 95197


Horsholm - Svendborg 65-78

The game between Top Four teams took place in Horsholm. 4th placed host Horsholm (14-9) lost to second ranked Svendborg (21-2) 78-65. The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 24-6 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Svendborg dominated on the defensive end, holding Horsholm to just 6 points in fourth quarter. They made 22-of-24 free shots (91.7 percent) during the game. Svendborg had a 28-14 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great evening for the former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. American center Christian Cavanaugh (207-86, college: Oregon Tech) helped adding 14 points and 7 rebounds. Four Svendborg players scored in double figures. Forward Alexander Bak (193-91) responded with 22 points and 4 assists and the former international power forward Jens Hakanowitz (204-80) scored 13 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Svendborg have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. Defending champion maintains second place with 21-2 record behind leader Bakken. Horsholm at the other side keeps the fourth position with nine games lost. Svendborg are looking forward to face league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Horsholm will play at home against Naestved and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: N.Iversen 18+8reb+4ast, A.Darboe 16+4reb+1ast, C.Cavanaugh 14+7reb+1ast, C.Magaard 11+4reb+2ast, M.Plannthin 9+5reb+3ast, N.Degn-Andersen 6
Horsholm: A.Bak 22+3reb+4ast, J.Hakanowitz 13+4reb+1ast, F.Nielsen 10+3reb+2ast, J.Gilling 8+2reb+2ast, P.Hertz 5+4reb+1ast, P.Franck 5+3reb
gschID: 121336


Horsens IC - Aalborg 73-87

Bottom-ranked Aalborg managed to get a third victory. This time they won against fifth-ranked Horsens IC 87-73. The game was mostly controlled by Aalborg. Horsens IC was better in second period 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 26-of-32 charity shots (81.3 percent) during the game, while Horsens IC only scored seven points from the stripe. Horsens IC was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) who led the winners and scored 29 points and 7 assists. His fellow American import power forward Barkley Falkner (203-86, college: Sam Houston St.) accounted for 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. The former international guard Alan Voskuil (191-86, college: Texas Tech) came up with 11 points and 7 rebounds and the former international swingman Alan Madsen (189-78) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Horsens IC in the defeat. Five Aalborg and four Horsens IC players scored in double figures. Aalborg maintains tenth place with 3-21 record. Horsens IC lost their third game in a row. They keep the fifth position with 11 games lost. Aalborg will play against higher ranked SISU (#6) in Copenhagen in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Horsens IC will play on the road against Naestved and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Aalborg: M.Hall 29+3reb+7ast, B.Falkner 18+12reb, H.Falsvig 12+7reb+2ast, C.Thomsen 12+7reb+1ast, S.Sorensen 10+4reb, L.Kristiansen 6+1ast
Horsens IC: A.Voskuil 11+7reb+3ast, M.Sahlertz 11+2reb+2ast, C.Lindberg 11+3reb, A.Madsen 10+6reb+2ast, M.St.John 10+6reb, T.Katholm 8+1reb
gschID: 121337


Vaerlose - Horsens IC 69-80

The game in Vaerlose was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Horsens IC (12-11) played at the court of 7th ranked Vaerlose (8-15). Horsens IC defeated Vaerlose 80-69. The game was mostly controlled by Horsens IC. Vaerlose was better in third quarter 19-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The former international guard Alan Voskuil (191-86, college: Texas Tech) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points and 4 steals. American guard Rickey Claitt (188-87, college: Oregon St.) contributed with 16 points and 7 assists for the winners. American forward Bonell Colas (205-82, college: Florida) answered with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds and forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) added 17 points in the effort for Vaerlose. Five Horsens IC and four Vaerlose players scored in double figures. Horsens IC maintains fifth place with 12-11 record. Newly promoted Vaerlose keeps the seventh position with 15 games lost. Horsens IC's next round opponent will be higher ranked Naestved (#3) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Vaerlose will play against Aabyhoj (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Horsens IC: A.Voskuil 20+4reb+1ast, R.Claitt 16+2reb+7ast, M.St.John 12+9reb, C.Lindberg 11+4reb+2ast, H.Schur 10+9reb+4ast, M.Sahlertz 9+1reb
Vaerlose: M.Rasmussen 17+2reb+3ast, B.Colas 17+12reb+2ast, P.Ba 10+5reb, J.McFarlane 10+3reb+2ast, S.Jensen 9+5reb+4ast, R.Larsen 2+2reb
gschID: 95194


Naestved - Aalborg 88-73

Very predictable result when third ranked Naestved (16-7) defeated at home bottom-ranked Aalborg (3-21) 88-73 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 88-73. Naestved outrebounded Aalborg 51-32 including a 37-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great evening for American power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay (OH)) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds. The former international power forward Peter Johansen (205-80) helped adding 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Naestved players scored in double figures. Naestved's coach Geoff Kotila allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Marquis Hall (183-87, college: Lehigh) responded with 26 points and 6 steals and swingman Henrik Falsvig (192-89) scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Naestved maintains third place with 16-7 record having six points less than leader Bakken. Loser Aalborg stay dead last with 21 lost games. Naestved will face Horsens IC (#5) in Horsens in the next round. Aalborg will play at home against SISU (#6) in Copenhagen.
Top scorers:
Naestved: L.Roberts 20+15reb+2ast, P.Johansen 19+7reb+4ast, M.Kasiulevicius 15+6reb+1ast, L.Hoirup 14+5reb, D.Smedley 10+9reb+7ast, N.Christensen 5+2reb+1ast
Aalborg: M.Hall 26+3reb+3ast, B.Falkner 13+5reb, H.Falsvig 13+8reb+1ast, C.Thomsen 6+4reb+2ast, S.Hansen 5+1reb+1ast, S.Sorensen 4+3reb+3ast
gschID: 95195


Svendborg - Amager BK 88-52

Second ranked Svendborg (21-2) crushed at home 9th ranked Amager BK (4-20) by 36 points 88-52, which is the biggest margin this round on Wednesday night. The game was mostly controlled by Svendborg. Amager BK was better in fourth quarter 21-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Amager BK to just 1 points in third quarter. Svendborg dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Amager BK's 26. They outrebounded Amager BK 45-27 including 32 on the defensive glass. Svendborg looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Amager BK's players. Worth to mention a quality performance of American center Christian Cavanaugh (207-86, college: Oregon Tech) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 21 points, 13 rebounds and 4 blocks (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Guard Martin Mariegaard (183-81) helped adding 16 points and 4 assists. Four Svendborg players scored in double figures. Svendborg's coach Craig Pedersen felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Swingman Peter Simonsen (185-88) responded with 15 points and forward Morten Lisby (198-88) scored 16 points. The victory was the seventh consecutive win for Svendborg. Defending champion maintains second place with 21-2 record behind leader Bakken. Amager BK lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the ninth position with 20 games lost. Svendborg will face league's leader Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Amager BK will play on the road against Horsens IC (#5) in Horsens.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: C.Cavanaugh 21+13reb+2ast, M.Mariegaard 16+1reb+4ast, N.Degn-Andersen 14+4reb, N.Iversen 12+3reb+3ast, A.Darboe 5+3reb+4ast, C.Magaard 5+5reb+1ast
Amager BK: M.Lisby 16+3reb, P.Simonsen 15+4reb+3ast, R.Larsen 9+3reb+3ast, J.Lombo 4+9reb, M.Blom Davidsen 3+1ast, M.Pedersen 3+1reb+1ast
gschID: 95196


Aabyhoj - Bakken 60-67

Ligaen top team - Bakken (22-1) added another victory to their record on Wednesday. This time they beat eighth ranked Aabyhoj (8-16) 67-60. The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 67-60. The best player for the winners was Bulgarian forward Hristo Petkov (200-85, college: Campbellsville) who scored 14 points and 8 rebounds. International swingman Chris Nielsen (192-85) chipped in 13 points. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Edward Morris (203-84, college: Pittsburg St.) produced 25 points and 9 rebounds and British-American guard Anthony Martin (186-80) added 15 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the hosts. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Bakken. They maintain first place with 22-1 record. Aabyhoj lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the eighth position with 16 games lost. Bakken will meet league's second-placed Svendborg on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Aabyhoj will play against Vaerlose (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bakken: H.Petkov 14+8reb, C.Nielsen 13+4reb, A.Jakobsen 11+4reb+1ast, C.Burgess 9+5reb+1ast, J.Jensen 6+6reb, M.Thuesen 4+3reb+1ast
Aabyhoj: E.Morris 25+9reb+2ast, A.Martin 15+6reb+4ast, R.Dalboge 10+3reb+3ast, D.Jukic 8+8reb, M.Draegert 2+1reb, J.Deluran 0
gschID: 95193




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


REST IN PEACE, COACH TONY DISLA! - by Ozell Wells
It is a sad day in the Dominican Republic as we mourn the loss of a GREAT BASKETBALL COACH, TEACHER & DEAR FRIEND. Tony Disla passed from this life last night after a long battle for his health. Having touched the lives of players and friends from the capital of Santo Domingo to as far north as Puerto Plata and everywhere in between, even across the waters into the United States & Europe. He has shaped so many of us as men & women but also has productive members of Dominican society and not only basketball players. We give our sincerest condolences to the Disla family and wish that he rest in the arms of the angels. WE WANT TO SAY THAT WE LOVE HIM & HE WILL FOREVER REMAIN IN OUR HEARTS! descansa en paz Tony...

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


Kaido Saks claims Estonian EMKL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
International forward Kaido Saks (205-F-86) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Kalev/Cramo and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 25.
The 24-year old forward had a double-double of 26 points and fourteen rebounds, while his team outclassed Voru KK (#9, 1-25) with 35-point margin 102-67. It allowed Kalev/Cramo to consolidate first place in the Estonian EMKL. Kalev/Cramo have a solid 23-3 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Saks as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Kaido Saks averages this season 9.0ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old American forward Anthony Brown (203-F-86) of Valga/CKE Inkasso. Brown impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 30 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Valga/CKE lost that game 83-92 to the higher-ranked Kalev/Cramo (#1, 23-3). Valga/CKE managed to keep the same 5th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-13 record. Brown is a newcomer at Valga/CKE and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.6ppg (#5). He also registered 11.9 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was American Curtis Allen (193-G-85) of Voru KK (#9). Allen showcased his all-around game by recording 22 points, thirteen rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. Despite Allen's great performance Voru KK lost 67-102 to the higher-ranked Kalev/Cramo (#1, 23-3). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Voru KK can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 1-25 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Allen he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Allen has a very solid season. In 5 games in Estonia he scored 21.6ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Toomas Raadik (198-F-90) of Parnu - 27 points and 3 rebounds
5. Curtis Allen (193-G-85) of Voru KK - 24 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Rannar Raap (187-G/F-92) of Parnu - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Timo Eichfuss (200-F-88) of TU/Rock - 15 points and 7 rebounds
8. Michael Dunigan (208-C-89) of Kalev/Cramo - 15 points and 7 rebounds
9. Rain Karner (186-G-91) of Parnu - 17 points and 3 rebounds
10. Kaido Saks (205-F-86) of Kalev/Cramo - 14 points and 4 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)

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Thornton, Voru KK18.7 
 2. Saage, Rakvere18.1 
 3. Erm, Rapla17.1 
 4. Raap, Parnu16.6 
 5. Brown, Va.16.6 
 6. Raadik, Parnu15.7 
 7. Arnold, TT.15.1 
 8. Osby, TT.14.8 
 9. Pilk, TT.14.2 
 10. Kuuba, Voru KK14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Thornton, Voru KK12.2 
 2. Brown, Va.11.9 
 3. Arnold, TT.11.1 
 4. Ringmets, Rapla9.8 
 5. Kuuba, Voru KK9.0 
 6. Osby, TT.8.9 
 7. Eziukwu, TU/Rock8.5 
 8. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.7.5 
 9. Pokla, Rakvere7.4 
 10. Raadik, Parnu6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Tanel SOKK
  Kalev/Cramo
  (184-G-85)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.7 
 2. Kriisa, TT.3.7 
 3. Sokk, TU/Rock3.3 
 4. Oja, Va.3.0 
 5. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo2.9 
 6. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock2.8 
 7. Pokla, Rakvere2.7 
 8. Ringmets, Rapla2.6 
 9. Archibald, TT.2.5 
 10. Laane, Rapla2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Rait-Riivo LAANE
  Rapla
  (180-G-93)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Laane, Rapla2.3 
 2. Doronin, TU/Rock2.3 
 3. Karner, Parnu2.2 
 4. Saage, Rakvere2.2 
 5. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 6. Raap, Parnu2.2 
 7. Oja, Va.1.9 
 8. Erm, Rapla1.8 
 9. Dorbek, Rakvere1.8 
 10. Pilk, TT.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock2.0 
 2. Osby, TT.1.4 
 3. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.3 
 4. Raadik, Parnu1.1 
 5. Brown, Va.0.9 
 6. Raadik, TU/Rock0.8 
 7. Talts, TU/Rock0.8 
 8. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.7 
 9. Saarmets, TTU/K.0.7 
 10. Arnold, TT.0.7 


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


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga
Points Per Game
 Jamar WILSON
  Honka
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 23.1
 1. Wilson, Honka23.1 
 2. Lewis, LrNM.21.4 
 3. Heard, Tarmo21.2 
 4. Blanchard, ToPo20.3 
 5. Wood, Karhu20.1 
 6. Bailey, LrNM.19.6 
 7. Walker, Kouvot19.3 
 8. Williamson, Honka19.0 
 9. Williams, Pyrinto19.0 
 10. Moore, LrNM.18.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 13.2
 1. Wood, Karhu13.2 
 2. Kaunisto, Kouvot10.9 
 3. Young, Tarmo10.0 
 4. Mathis, Namika Lahti9.9 
 5. Doaks, Salon Vilpas9.8 
 6. Blanchard, ToPo9.8 
 7. Vinson, Kouvot9.5 
 8. Williams, Pyrinto9.4 
 9. Coleman, LrNM.8.9 
 10. Belser, Honka8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Steffan JOHNSON
  Karhu
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Johnson, Karhu4.8 
 2. Moore, LrNM.4.5 
 3. Williams, Pyrinto4.2 
 4. Wood, Karhu4.1 
 5. Suonio, Namika Lahti3.9 
 6. Okorie, Salon Vilpas3.8 
 7. Virtanen, Kataja3.8 
 8. Sarcevic, Korihait3.6 
 9. Ivey, KTP3.5 
 10. Kataja, Salon Vilpas3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Wood, Karhu2.1 
 2. Fields, KTP2.0 
 3. Newson, Kataja1.9 
 4. Moore, Korihait1.9 
 5. Heard, Tarmo1.9 
 6. Conerly, Tarmo1.8 
 7. Sarcevic, Korihait1.7 
 8. Fells, Kataja1.7 
 9. Richards, ToPo1.6 
 10. Williams, Pyrinto1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 James REAVES
  Korihait
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 1
 1. Reaves, Korihait1.0 
 2. Hendley, Namika Lahti0.8 
 3. Bailey, LrNM.0.7 
 4. Blanchard, ToPo0.7 
 5. Moore, LrNM.0.7 
 6. Heard, Tarmo0.7 
 7. Wilson, Honka0.7 
 8. Latimer, Namika Lahti0.6 
 9. Wood, Karhu0.6 
 10. Belser, Honka0.6 


Wood's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old forward Jeremiah Wood (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) put on an amazing game in the last round for Karhu Kauhajoki and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 35.
He had a double-double of 25 points and 14 rebounds, while his team edged out ToPo (#8, 16-19) 91-89. Karhu is placed at 7th position in Finnish league. Karhu 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 16-18 record. It's Wood's second year at Karhu and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Wood has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (5th best: 20.1ppg), assists (4th best: 4.1apg) and averages solid 2.1spg and 69.2% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Damon Williams (201-F-73) of top-ranked Pyrinto Tampere. He is American forward in his second season at Pyrinto. In the last game Williams recorded impressive 31 points and 6 rebounds. It was enough for Pyrinto to edge the lower-ranked Kouvot (#6, 18-17) by 5 points 88-83. Of course Pyrinto still keep the league's top spot. His team lost just seven games this season, while they won 29 matches. Williams is well-known at Pyrinto and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.0ppg (#8). His other stats are also decent: 9.4rpg and 4.2apg.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Jamar Wilson (185-G-84) of Honka Espoo Playboys (#5). Wilson got into 30-points club by scoring exactly 30 points in the last round. He went also for five rebounds and five assists. He was a key player of Honka, leading his team to a 83-69 easy win against the lower-ranked LrNMKY (#11, 8-27). Honka needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 21 victories and 12 lost games. Wilson has a great season in Finland. After 28 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 23.1ppg (best scorer).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jerrah Young (202-F-85) of Tarmo - 17 points, 17 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Lawrence Wright (195-F-84) of Korihait - 30 points and 6 rebounds
6. Nicchaeus Doaks (202-F-87) of Salon Vilpas - 23 points and 10 rebounds
7. Darren Fells (201-F/C-86) of Kataja - 23 points and 9 rebounds
8. Jerald Fields (201-F-82) of KTP - 24 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Jared Newson (195-G/F-84) of Kataja - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Anthony Vereen (201-F-86) of Namika Lahti - 28 points and 4 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)

KORISLIIGA: Kouvot and KTP winning - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 36: Only two contests tonight. KTP Basket (Kotka) crushed Tarmo (Porvoo) 82-53 and Kouvot (Kouvola) beat on the road YMCA Lappeenranta 78-88.
So, no upsets or OTs this time. # 11 Team YMCA Lappeenranta had energy to fight vs # 6 Team Kouvot, but # 12 Team Tarmo gave up already during the opening quarter vs KTP.
B.A. Walker (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) (Kouvot) scored game high 23 pts at Lappeenranta and Sefton Barrett (196-F-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Michigan) (KTP) was the game MVP in Kotka. Still eight rounds left out of the regular season.
YMCA Lappeenranta - Kouvot 78-88 (40-39). (Malik Moore 20/8a, HL Coleman 19/10, James Lewis 15 - BA Walker 23, Ville Kaunisto 20, Josh Gonner 18).
KTP - Tarmo 82-53 (41-31). (Sefton Barrett 27/11, Jeb Ivey 11, Jussi Eskola 11 - Jerrah Young 22/12, Jonathan Heard 12/10, Jarkko Kyllonen 6).



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


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


Standings - ProB
ProB Standings
 1. Rouen 16-5 
 2. Nanterre 15-6 
 3. Evreux 14-7 
 4. Fos Ouest 14-8 
 5. Boulazac 13-8 
 6. Chalons-Reims 13-8 
 7. Le Portel 13-9 
 8. Dijon 12-9 
 9. Maurienne 12-9 
 10. Bourg 10-11 
 11. Boulogne 10-11 
 12. Lille 10-12 
 13. Nantes 9-13 
 14. Antibes 8-13 
 15. St Vallier 7-14 
 16. Quimper 7-14 
 17. Clermont 5-16 
 18. Charleville 3-18 


Standings - N1
NM1 Standings
 1. Bordeaux 20-3 
 2. Denain 17-5 
 3. Brest 14-8 
 4. Angers BC 49 14-8 
 5. Sorgues 12-10 
 6. St Etienne 12-10 
 7. St Quentin 12-10 
 8. Blois 12-10 
 9. Challans 11-11 
 10. Denek 11-11 
 11. Orchy 11-12 
 12. Souffel 10-12 
 13. Le Puy 10-12 
 14. Lievin 9-13 
 15. St Chamond 9-14 
 16. Get Vosges 8-14 
 17. Roche 5-17 
 18. CFBB 3-20 


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Tremmell DARDEN
  Nancy
  (194-G/F-81)
  Avg: 17.9
 1. Darden, Nancy17.9 
 2. Nichols, Vichy17.8 
 3. Mejia, Cholet17.4 
 4. Jefferson, AS.17.3 
 5. Massie, Limoges17.1 
 6. Woodside, Gravelines16.3 
 7. Bennett, Pau-La.15.8 
 8. King, Le Havre15.8 
 9. Haynes, Chalon15.2 
 10. Hamilton, Paris-.14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rob LEWIN
  Art.Dragons
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Lewin, Vichy9.8 
 2. Massie, Limoges9.2 
 3. Issa, Gravelines8.9 
 4. Krupalija, Hyeres.8.8 
 5. Jones, Le Havre8.7 
 6. Akingbala, Nancy8.3 
 7. Elegar, Vichy7.9 
 8. Jefferson, AS.7.9 
 9. Koffi, Le Mans7.6 
 10. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Rouen
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Reid, Vichy6.3 
 2. King, Le Havre6.2 
 3. Linehan, Nancy6.2 
 4. Wright, Limoges6.1 
 5. Woodside, Gravelines5.9 
 6. Sciarra, Pau-La.5.1 
 7. Diabate, Roanne4.7 
 8. Schilb, Chalon4.7 
 9. Tchicamboud, Cha.4.2 
 10. Houston, Hyeres-T.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Linehan, Nancy3.7 
 2. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.2.6 
 3. Darden, Nancy2.2 
 4. Diot, Le Mans2.0 
 5. Walsh, AS.1.9 
 6. Bennett, Pau-La.1.8 
 7. Diabate, Roanne1.7 
 8. Elegar, Vichy1.7 
 9. Woodside, Gravelines1.6 
 10. Dewar, Le Mans1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Gravelines
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Akpomedah, Grave.1.8 
 2. Issa, Gravelines1.5 
 3. Jefferson, AS.1.4 
 4. Falker, Cholet1.3 
 5. Koffi, Le Mans1.2 
 6. Pasco, Strasbourg1.2 
 7. Badiane, Poitiera.1.1 
 8. Akingbala, Nancy1.1 
 9. Wilkinson, Le Havre1.1 
 10. Fofana, AS.1.1 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 Moses SONKO
  Maurienne
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Sonko, Maurienne18.8 
 2. Harris, Lille18.5 
 3. Siggers, Rouen18.2 
 4. Gay, Fos Ouest17.1 
 5. Carter, Nanterre17.1 
 6. Watson, Evreux15.8 
 7. Dunn, Maurienne15.6 
 8. Labeyrie, Le Portel15.5 
 9. Bouldin, Clermont15.4 
 10. Runkaukas, Quimper15.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chris DANIELS
  Chalons-Reims
  (200-F-82)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Daniels, Chalons-.10.6 
 2. Mathis, Maurienne10.5 
 3. Barber, Nantes10.1 
 4. Monds, Bourg8.7 
 5. Monroe, Boulogne8.7 
 6. Bing, Dijon8.7 
 7. Giles, Rouen8.3 
 8. Rouse, Charleville7.9 
 9. Badiane, Boulazac7.7 
 10. Massot, Antibes7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 8
 1. Da Silva, Evreux8.0 
 2. Rowland, Le Portel6.6 
 3. Downey, Nantes5.7 
 4. Patiejunas, Boulo.5.3 
 5. Williams, Le Portel5.0 
 6. Taylor, Rouen5.0 
 7. Craven, Dijon4.9 
 8. Denave, St Vallier4.8 
 9. Mullins, Chalons-.4.6 
 10. Akono, Nanterre4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Kyle SHILOH
  St Vallier
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Shiloh, St Vallier2.8 
 2. Doyne, Charleville2.6 
 3. Riley, Nanterre2.5 
 4. Daniels, Chalons-.2.5 
 5. Sonko, Maurienne2.4 
 6. Craven, Dijon2.4 
 7. Patiejunas, Boulo.2.2 
 8. Hachad, Fos Ouest2.2 
 9. Mullins, Chalons-.2.1 
 10. Stanley, Boulogne2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 2
 1. Gay, Fos Ouest2.0 
 2. Jefferson, Quimper1.5 
 3. Monds, Bourg1.1 
 4. Barber, Nantes1.0 
 5. Taccoen, Lille0.9 
 6. N''Diaye, Clermont0.9 
 7. Adjiwanou, Boula.0.9 
 8. Daniels, Nanterre0.8 
 9. Davis, Evreux0.8 
 10. Diakite, Chalons-.0.8 


Stats Leaders - N1
Points Per Game
 Larry BLAIR
  Denek
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 24
 1. Blair, Denek24.0 
 2. Kennedy, Orchy18.5 
 3. Petrovic, St Et.18.2 
 4. Pridotkas, Brest17.7 
 5. Blot, Blois17.4 
 6. James, Challans16.6 
 7. Ford, Bordeaux16.3 
 8. Lesieu, St Quentin16.0 
 9. Disy, Roche15.4 
 10. Lalugba, Denain15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lavar SIMMONS
  St Etienne
  (201-F/C-83)
  Avg: 9.4
 1. Simmons, St Et.9.4 
 2. Pasut, Sorgues8.4 
 3. Grimm, Blois8.3 
 4. Hoard, Lievin8.0 
 5. Alingue, Souffel7.8 
 6. Lesieu, St Quentin7.8 
 7. Kennedy, Orchy7.8 
 8. Brocheray, Denain7.7 
 9. Roberts, Brest7.5 
 10. Lopez, Brest7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Pierre BROCHARD
  Blois
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Brochard, Blois6.4 
 2. Cortey, Le Puy5.8 
 3. Ramphort, Angers B.4.8 
 4. Barbry, Orchy4.2 
 5. Darrigand, Bordeaux4.2 
 6. Sauret, Denain4.1 
 7. Rambur, St Quentin4.0 
 8. Thomas, St Etienne3.9 
 9. Driss, Bordeaux3.7 
 10. Tillon, St Chamond3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Larry BLAIR
  Denek
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Blair, Denek2.8 
 2. Pistre, Le Puy2.1 
 3. Neri, Roche2.0 
 4. Sauret, Denain2.0 
 5. Ipouck, Le Puy1.8 
 6. Blot, Blois1.7 
 7. Roberts, Brest1.7 
 8. Driss, Bordeaux1.6 
 9. Ramphort, Angers B.1.6 
 10. Schmieder, Challans1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Jean-Stephane RINNA
  St Chamond
  (205-F-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Rinna, St Chamond1.8 
 2. Alingue, Souffel1.7 
 3. Ford, Bordeaux1.7 
 4. Traore, Angers B.1.6 
 5. Lalugba, Denain1.4 
 6. Pasut, Sorgues1.2 
 7. Gourde, Get Vosges1.0 
 8. Kennedy, Orchy1.0 
 9. Mendy, Angers B.0.9 
 10. Ipouck, Le Puy0.9 


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


John Bynum (TBB Trier) PregameThoughts To Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Game February 19th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
John Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) is a 32 year old 191 cm guard from Visalia California that is playing his first season with TBB Trier. He is a good fighter, fast and good in offensive playing. He is great athlete who can shoot the ball with consistency from 3 and finish with authority on the break. He is a tremendous defender on the ball. He played college basketball at College of the Sequoias Junior College:from 1996-1998 and then transferred to Metropolitan St. (NCAA2): and played there from 1998-2000. He started his professional basketball career in 2001 in the Uk for the Solent Stars (United Kingdom-NBLConf): 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assist. In 2002-2003, came his first tour of duty in Germany for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga): 24.7ppg, 9.2rpg, 6.7apg, 3.5spg. In 2003-2004, he played for the Ulriken Eagles (Norway-BNLO): Regular Season: 14 games: 20,1ppg, 8,1rpg, 2,5apg, 2,9spg, 0,4bpg.In 2004-2005, he was back in Germany playing for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-2.Bundesliga): 30 games: Score-5 (26.0ppg), 7.7rpg, Ast-4 (5.4apg), 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 63.6%. In 2005-2006, he played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-A1): only pre-season, then joined COOCOON Baskets Weiden (Germany-2.Bundesliga, starting five): 8 games: 15.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 51%, left in Jan.'06 and later that month signed at Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 21 games: 7.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 56.5%. In 2006-2007, he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 31 games: 5.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 43.1%, 3FGP: 25.0%, FT: 55.9%. In 2007-2008, he played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 14 games: 14.4ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-5 (4.6apg), 2.3spg, 2FGP: 54%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 58.5%, left in Jan.'08 due to shoulder injury, in Feb.'08 moved to Digibu Baskets Paderborn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 13 games: 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 70.0%. Last season, he played in the PRO A for Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-ProA, starting five): 27 games: 16.9ppg, 7.1rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.8%. He spoke with eurobasket before the next game against The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven February 19th.

TBB Trier is playing good basketball at the moment and on top of that are geting help with last second winning shots. How good does the team feel at the moment concerning getting into the promised land?


Well in reality it has felt good winning some close games and we just have to take it one game at a time, we still have a long ways to go and we must protect our home court and get some help. But we always got to take care of us first and foremost.

What was the most important thing the team took with them from the win against Phoenix Hagen?


We have to find a way to play good for 40 minutes and put together a full game. But we just cant let up and we have to find ways to get through tough times in the game.

The next game is against The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. What has been your impression of the team this season?

They have had an up and down season and have had injuries at times this season and have a different team from when we played them earlier this season. They can compete with anyone and will be a tough game.

What is your memory of the bitter 73-72 loss in Bremerhaven earlier this season?

We let that game get away from us, we played well enough to win on the road and we let them have that game in the last minute. It was a fustrating loss but we are ready and looking to protect our home court.

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven are a very talented team, but havent been playing their best basketball as of late. I feel they may be in a surprise when they face the TBB Trier defense. Where will this game be decided?


I think as far as what we need to do, it starts at the defensive end, if we play solid defense I like our chances but we also have to put points on the board. We just have to play our game and do what we have done in the past couple of games.

Bremerhaven has many great players, but how valuable is John Allen to the team? He can do a little bit of everything?


Yes Allen is a key pick up for them and he has been solid since he has came to Bremerhaven. We have to find a way to slow him down this weekend and make him feel uncomfortable in the things he does well.

How much will Taylor Rochestie be able to help Alba Berlin in the stretch run?


I think he will help them out but it may take him a little bit of time to see what his role is and how he fits in the team, but it is a great pick up for Berlin.

Can the Chicago Bulls reach the eastern Conference final with a healthy Joakim Noah?


Nope... they are having a great season, but I still dont believe in the Bulls.

Thanks John for the chat.

Bryan Bailey (Artland Dragons) We Have To Keep An Eye On John Goldsberry At All Times - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Bryan Bailey (185-G-80, college: Bucknell) is a 30 year old 185cm combo guard that is playing his 9th professional basketball season playing his 4th with The Artland Dragons. He is a true team leader both on and off the court. He possesses a diverse game, with an ability to stroke the long-range jumper, penetrate to the rim or distribute the ball. He is solid on the defensive end of the floor as well. His fierce competitive drive rubs off on his teammates. He started his professional basketball career at Bucknell and player there from 1998-2002 and in his senior year played 17games averaging 18.1ppg,5.3rpg,2.4apg. He made All-Patriot League 1st Team in 2001 and 2002. In 2002-2003, he started his professional basketball season in Germany with DJK S. Oliver Wurzburg (Germany-1Bundesliga, starting five): 26 games, 15.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4spg. In 2003-2004, he played in Holland for Landstede Zwolle (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 35 games: 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, 0.2bpg. He then played with The Artland Dragons from 2004-2007 reaching the league and cup final in 2007. His best statistical season was 2005-2006 playing 33 games and averaging 11.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 25.3%. In 2007-2008, he played with Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 10.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 84.3%. In 2008-2009, he played in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE): Eurocup: 6 games: 7.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg; Polish League: 32 games: 8.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77.0%. Last season, he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg playing Euroleague: 4 games: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg; German League: 6 games: 9.3ppg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.7%. He sat down and spoke with Eurobasket before the game against The Brose Baskets Bamberg February 19th.

The Artland Dragons have won 7 of the 9 last games. What has the team finally understood to do better now than earlier in the season?

Now we don't lose our defensive focus when we aren't scoring on the offensive end. Earlier in the year, when we would miss shots, our defensive intensity would go down. Now we are able to move on to the next play, without thinking about our past mistakes.

The next game is against 2010 BEKO BBL champion Brose Baskets Bamberg. What is your memory of the bitter 60-58 loss in Bamberg earlier this season?

I remember that it was a tough defensive game. We made some mistakes towards the end of the game and Bamberg took advantage of our errors to get the win at the buzzer.

Bamberg is so tough to beat at the moment. How has the team improved in the last months?

Bamberg is tough because they are a very deep team. All the players know their roles and they play together as a team.

What is the biggest challenge playing against point guard John Goldsberry? What do you have to watch most when he is face to face with you and you have the ball?

We have to keep an eye on him at all times. Although he doesn't look to score a lot, he's a good shooter and we must be aware of him. He has very quick hands on defense.

Who is the X factor for Bamberg?

I don't think Bamberg has an X-factor. All their players can step up in a game and lead them.

What will be key in winning this game? Possibly running because they are very strong in the half court defense?

Defense and limiting our turnovers will be key to this game. We can't take any defensive plays off and we must take care of the ball on the offensive end.

How much will Taylor Rochestie be able to help Alba Berlin in the stretch run?

I really don't know much about him as a player. I know he played with Goettingen last season and had a good year.

Can the Chicago Bulls reach the eastern Conference final with a healthy Joakim Noah?

I think it will tough for them to reach the Eastern Conference Finals, but it is possible.


Thanks Bryan for chat.

Dane Watts (Walter Tigers Tuebingen) Pregame Thoughts To EWE Baskets Oldenburg February 19th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dane Watts (203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 24 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg. He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. Lasts eason, he played for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. He returns to Tuebingen for the 2010-2011 BEKO BBL season. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. Watts sat down with eurobasket before the game against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg February 19th.

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen have won three games in a row and looking for their fourth win in a row. This streak reminds a bit of the clubs 6 game winning streak last season. How focused is the team at the moment and how much is playing basketball now?

It does seem a little bit like last year, hopefully we can reach 4 in a row this weekend. We are focused on getting better throughout the week and keeping our momentum going.

You have a tough game against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg on Saturday. What has been your impression of the team this season?

They have been getting better through the season, they picked up some new players that have helped them as of late.

What is your memory from the big 87-68 win in Oldenburg earlier this season?

I remember that we played very aggressive and continued to hit shots in the 2nd half.

The EWE Baskets Oldenburg are very unpredictable and have gotten stronger with Bogdanovic and Gill. Do you think this could be a team that might peak in the playoffs?

Im not as familiar with the new players they have added but I know that they players that they have had are experienced in the playoffs and know how to win a series.

What will be key in getting the fourth win in a row in the Paul Horn arena?

Limiting their transition opportunities and trying to control their guard play with Campbell, Paulding and Lukauskis.

How much will Taylor Rochestie be able to help Alba Berlin in the stretch run?

I think it depends on what role they are looking for him to fill.

Can the Chicago Bulls reach the eastern Conference final with a healthy Joakim Noah?

They definitely have a better shot at it with Noah, Boston, Miami and Orlando are looking good too.

Thanks Dane for the chat.

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.Bank SKY
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 17.8
 1. Wood, Dt.17.8 
 2. Rice, Art.Dragons16.2 
 3. Bell, Phoenix Hagen16.0 
 4. Benzing, ratio.15.6 
 5. Allen, ALBA15.5 
 6. Harris, EnBW L.15.4 
 7. Martin, Bremerha.15.4 
 8. Peacock, LTi 46ers15.4 
 9. Ross, MBC15.3 
 10. Callahan, Bremerha.15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Bryant, ratiopharm10.8 
 2. Reiner, Bayreuth8.1 
 3. Ensminger, Teleko.8.0 
 4. Watts, Walter T.7.9 
 5. Stevic, EWE B.7.4 
 6. Martin, Bremerha.7.1 
 7. Evtimov, MBC7.0 
 8. Ovcina, LTi 46ers6.9 
 9. Peacock, LTi 46ers6.7 
 10. Pleiss, Brose B.6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter Tigers
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 8
 1. Ratkovica, Walter T.8.0 
 2. Wood, Dt.5.5 
 3. Joyce, TBB Trier5.0 
 4. Rice, Art.Dragons4.8 
 5. Jordan, MBC4.3 
 6. Green, EnBW L.4.2 
 7. Goldsberry, Brose B.4.2 
 8. Copeland, Bremerha.4.1 
 9. Gamqrelidze, LTi 4.1 
 10. Hamilton, NY Phant.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Kevin HAMILTON
  NY Phantoms
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Hamilton, NY Phant.2.1 
 2. Burtschi, Phoenix .1.7 
 3. Martin, Bremerha.1.7 
 4. Bailey, Art.Dragons1.6 
 5. Wise, Telekom .1.5 
 6. Campbell, Teleko.1.4 
 7. Pryor, Phoenix .1.4 
 8. Goldsberry, Brose B.1.4 
 9. Skinn, NY Phantoms1.3 
 10. Lukauskis, EWE B.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ekene IBEKWE
  Bayreuth
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.2.4 
 2. Pleiss, Brose B.1.9 
 3. Buechert, Phoenix .1.6 
 4. Bryant, ratiopharm1.5 
 5. Scott, Goettingen1.3 
 6. Brempong, Duesseld.1.2 
 7. Goree, NY Phantoms1.2 
 8. Hines, Brose B.1.0 
 9. Boumtje, Art.Drag.1.0 
 10. Denison, Bremerha.1.0 


USC Heidelberg ties up Bohannon deal - by Moritz Korff
USC Heidelberg (2. Bundesliga Pro A) has completed the signing of Jason Bohannon (190-G-87, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Wisconsin), shortly before the trading deadline will expire.
Bohannon will pay his first visit to European basketball. The 23-year-old Marion, Iowa native spent his entire NCAA career at Division One school University of Wisconsin, averaging 11.6 points per game as a senior. Following graduation Bohannon made his first steps as a professional basketball player in the NBA D-League. He appeared in 10 games for Iowa Energy since December 2010, while scoring 1.7 points per contest.
Meanwhile, Jason Straight (188-G-83, college: Wyoming) has been waived. He played two games for Heidelberg this year, tallying 8 points per outing.

*****************************************************
  GREECE   


Milos Teodosic wins FIBA Europe Player of the Year Award - by George Fragkos
FIBA Europe announced on Friday that Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) of Serbia has been voted European Player of the Year for 2010.

The award winner was chosen by the public and an expert panel vote by media representatives and coaches, following a historically tight race that was only decided on the last day.

Teodosic was deemed second best by the experts, but was the overwhelming winner of the public vote and managed to snatch the award from the hands of 2008 and 2009 Player of the Year, Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) of Spain.

At club level, the 1.95m tall Serbian guard was named Euroleague 2010 Regular Season MVP, having averaged 13.4 points, 4.9 assists and 1.8 steals to lead Olympiacos to the Final Four of the competition.

The 23-year-old Teodosic, who had already been established as the star of his national team in EuroBasket 2009, was the driving force behind Serbia's run to the 2010 FIBA World Championship semi-finals.

His incredible buzzer-beater in the quarter-final victory over Spain achieved instant iconic status among the tournament highlights. He had 11.3 points, 5.6 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game in Turkey.

After congratulating Teodosic on the award, FIBA Europe President Olafur Rafnsson commented: 'A quick glimpse through the names of the other candidates is enough to put the value of this award into perspective. Being voted European Player of the Year means that fans and peers consider you one of the best players in basketball history.'

'In the last eight years, I have seen Milos conquering Gold in the U16 European Championship, being crowned U18 European Champion, walking away with the U20 European Championship Gold Medal and MVP title, and winning the EuroBasket 2009 Silver Medal,' added FIBA Europe Secretary General Nar Zanolin.

'Sometimes I find it hard to keep in mind he is still only 23, so my initial instinctive reaction to the news was surprise that he had only been voted Player of the Year for the first time,' Mr Zanolin concluded.

FIBA Europe Player of the Year voting results:

Player Fan Voting Expert Voting Ranking
Milos Teodosic (SRB) 13160 195 0.169
Pau Gasol (ESP) 6213 203 0.167
Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) (GER) 5118 102 0.086
Linas Kleiza (203-F-85, college: Missouri) (LTU) 6270 96 0.083
Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) (ESP) 2884 98 0.080
Hedo Turkoglu (206-F-79) (TUR) 11369 37 0.043
Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) (TUR) 8523 30 0.034
Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) (GRE) 6103 24 0.026
Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) (GBR) 1773 26 0.023
Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) (ITA) 1730 25 0.022
Goran Dragic (194-G-86) (SLO) 4880 19 0.021
Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88) (ISR) 3111 19 0.019
Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) (FRA) 1597 11 0.011
Timofey Mozgov (216-C-86) (RUS) 3226 6 0.009
Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) (MNE) 4413 2 0.007
TOTAL 80,370 893

Courtesy: FIBA Europe Communications

*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN   


Astana Tigers and Barsy Atyrau post back-to-back wins in Round 12 - by Eurobasket News
Astana Tigers claimed two consecutive wins over BK Almaty in Round 12. Astana prevailed 64:45 in Game 1. Aleksandr Kuznetsov (193-G-84) came up with 16 points to lead the charge. Vilius Gabsys (199-F-79, agency: Court Side) added 13 points for the Tigers. Astana piled up a 36:19 lead at the interval and eased to the victory in the second half. Vladimir Rybakov (203-F-89) responded with 14 points for BK Almaty.
Astana Tigers stayed on the winning track on the next day. They claimed a 76:61 victory to improve at 11-3 record. Vilius Gabsys top-scored with 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. The Tigers outscored their opponents 15:2 in the second term to accumulate a comfortable 34:18 lead at halftime and never looked back en route to the victory. Paulius Morkeliunas (201-F-85, college: LIU Brooklyn) contributed 17 points in the victory. BK Almaty answered with 17 points from Yuriy Kozhanov (194-G-90).
In the meantime the league leading Barsy Atyrau upset Kaspiy twice. The first encounter finished 88:79 in favor of Barsy. Edgar Chunda nailed 15 points to lead the charge. Pavel Ilin (202-F-92) had 13 points in the winning case. Kaspiy led by 5 points after ten minutes but Barsy went on a 27:17 run in the second term and rallied to a confident win in the second half. Dzhanysh Adiev and Konstantin Dvirniy (192-G-88) accounted for 13 points each in the loss.
The next game between the teams turned into a dramatic battle. Barsy got to the better start but Kaspiy recovered in the next two periods and entered the fourth quarter up by three points. But a 20:11 spurt rescued the league leaders and propelled them to the 12th straight win in the season. Endropov unloaded 17 points for the winning team. Dmitriy Klimov (200-F-88) and Edgar Chunda had 12 points each for Barsy. Evgeni Isakov (203-F-82) netted 16 points in defeat.


Standings -D1
D1 Standings
 1. Barsy Atyrau 12-0 
 2. Astana Tigers 11-3 
 3. Tobol 7-7 
 4. Kaspiy Aktau 5-8 
 5. BK Atyrau 3-8 
 6. BK Almaty 1-13 


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


Latvian LBL round 19 best performance: Arturas Valeika - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian forward Arturas Valeika (206-F-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Valmiera, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 19.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds, while his team beat VEF Riga jrs (#5, 11-8) 72-62. Valmiera is placed at 4th position in Latvian LBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Valmiera will need more victories to improve their 11-7 record. Valeika just recently signed at Valmiera, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Former Midland CC star has very solid stats this year. Valeika leads league in rebounds with 8.7rpg. Valeika is in league's top in and averages impressive 53.3% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old Salvis Metra (194-G/F-84) of Zemgale. Metra had a very good evening with a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds. Bad luck as Zemgale was edged by slightly lower-ranked LU (#7, 3-16) 81-79. Zemgale managed to keep the same 6th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-11 record. Metra is well-known at Zemgale and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Zemgale's star - former international forward Arturs Brunins (200-F-82). Brunins scored 23 points and grabbed six rebounds. Despite Brunins' great performance Zemgale lost 79-81 to slightly lower-ranked LU (#7, 3-16). But his team cannot count on just these two top stars as they also need help of the other teammates. The chances of Zemgale not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 11 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Brunins could try to bring Zemgale's a little bit higher in the standings. Brunins has a very solid season. In 10 games in Latvia he scored 9.5ppg. He also has FGP: 54.2% and 3PT: 42.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87) of VEF Riga jrs - 18 points and 8 rebounds
5. Agnis Cavars (198-F-86) of Barons - 14 points and 8 rebounds
6. Kaspars Berzins (213-F/C-85) of VEF Riga jrs - 13 points and 10 rebounds
7. Zanis Peiners (203-G-90) of LU - 27 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Sandis Silavs (194-G-88) of Barons - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Roberts Mednis (204-C-89) of Turiba - 17 points and 10 rebounds
10. Oskars Virsis (191-G-89) of Valmiera - 18 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)

*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA   


Salenga is disqualified for two years - by Aurimas Rimselis
Former Zalgiris Kaunas basketball player Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) is disqualified for half a year by International Basketball Federation Disciplinary Committee. Salenga persuaded FIBA Disciplinary Committee that he mixed all the pills in one bottle, and did not know that there still matter metilhexamin, banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency in 2010. Salenga told to Committee that the material got like a gift for birthday from a friend in 2009. Food supplements arrived from USA. Player informed about these dietary supplements Kaunas Zalgiris club doctors - doctors allowed to use it. Sanctions period began to run from the previous January, so the player will play from 6th of July. For now, Salenga is training with Sakalai.


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


Toros eliminate Halcones Xalapa, advance to LNBP Finals - by Eurobasket News
Toros - Halcones Xalapa 95-79

Toros advanced to the LNBP Finals. They outplayed Halcones Xalapa in Game Five winning the series with almost perfect 4-1. Toros will face Pioneros in the battle for LNBP title.
It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Toros's pressure prevailed and they won that period 26-12 extending their advantage to 16 points. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Halcones UV Xalapa's 34. Toros players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. American-Nigerian forward Ikechukwu Ofoegbu (205-F-85, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: SMU) orchestrated the victory by scoring 26 points and 7 rebounds. American forward Adrian Henning (203-F-82, college: Austin Peay St.) contributed with 25 points for the winners. Lorenzo Real Aguilar answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds and the former international forward Victor Mariscal (198-F-72) added 19 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Halcones UV Xalapa. Five Toros and four Halcones UV Xalapa players scored in double figures.

Toros: I.Ofoegbu 26+7reb+3ast, A.Henning 25+4reb+3ast, A.Gomez 11+4reb+6ast, A.Rougeau 10+11reb+4ast, Q.Joseph 10+5reb+1ast, W.Pagan 6+1reb+4ast
Halc.Xalapa: V.Mariscal 19+6reb+1ast, L.Real Aguilar 18+11reb, L.Garcia Morales 17+5reb+3ast, C.McGowan 10+6reb, O.Mendez-Valdez 9+1reb+4ast, R.Traylor 2+3reb+1ast

*****************************************************
  MOLDOVA   


Standings
D1 Standings
 1. UASM 10-0 
 2. ASEM 8-2 
 3. Fire Ball 8-2 
 4. Ribnita 5-4 
 5. Gamma 5-5 
 6. UTM 3-6 
 7. Donduseni 3-7 
 8. Soroca 2-8 
 9. Patriot 1-9 


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


Standings - 1B
1B Stage Two Standings
 1. KK Podgorica 5-1 
 2. Un.Mediteran 4-2 
 3. Sutjeska 4-2 
 4. Centar BP 3-3 
 5. S.Centar 3-3 
 6. Buducnost II 2-4 
 7. Rudar 2-4 
 8. Ibar Rozaje 1-5 
regular season Standings


*****************************************************
  NAIA   


Simmons and Miller lead Gold Rush to 24th victory - by Emiliano
Anthony Simmons (6'8''-F) scored 14 points and Kevin Miller (6'4''-G) 13 Thursday to lead NAIA No. 13 Xavier (LA) to a 66-57 men's basketball victory against Mobile (AL).
Xavier (24-3) won for the 10th time in 11 games and matched its highest victory total since the 1983-84 season. Five days after surrendering a season-worst 91 points at Tougaloo, Xavier allowed less than 60 points for the 12th time this season.
Simmons scored his most points since Dec. 29, and Miller tied his career high. Both are sophomores.
Miller's 3-point play with 19:37 remaining put the Gold Rush ahead to stay, 30-27. Xavier took its biggest lead, 58-45, after Chris Iles' two free throws at 6:02.
Iles scored 10 points and made 8-of-8 free throws for Xavier, which made 21-of-27 from the line and outshot Mobile (AL) 47.7 to 39.1 percent from the floor.
Donte Walker scored 17 points and Ji Kimbrough 13 for Mobile (AL) (13-12).
The teams were tied at 27 at halftime after nine lead changes.
Xavier swept the two-game season series and leads 28-25 all-time after beating the Rams for the sixth time in seven attempts.
The other times Xavier won 24 games since 1983-84 were in 1992-93, 2000-01, 2004-05 and 2007-08.
The Gold Rush will play Gulf Coast Athletic Conference opponent SUNO at 7 p.m. Saturday at The Barn. After playing four straight on the road, Xavier will close the regular season with two GCAC home games.


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


Nets, Nuggets have a deal in place - will Carmelo agree to extension? - by Eurobasket News
Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports is reporting that the Nets and Nuggets have agreed to terms on a deal that would bring Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) to New Jersey/Brooklyn.

The Nets and Nuggets are discussing a deal that would send Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Melvin Ely, Renaldo Balkman and Shelden Williams to the Nets for Derrick Favors, Devin Harris, Troy Murphy, Ben Uzoh and four first-round draft picks, league sources told Yahoo! Sports on Thursday night.

The Nuggets are expected to move Murphy and his $12 million expiring contract to a third team and sweeten the deal with one or two of the Nets draft picks.

Keep in mind that in addition to Harris and Favors, the Nuggets would get four first round picks from the Nets. Theyre expected to send one or two of those along with Troy Murphy to a third team to get rid of his salary. If theyre successful, theyll shave $20 million off of this years payroll (though most of that money has already been paid to the players).

It will be interesting to see how the Nets come up with four first round picks. They currently own the 6th-worst record in the league, so their own pick could be very valuable, but the Warriors 2011 pick that they acquired as part of the Marcus Williams trade is protected through 2013 before it turns into a pair of second round picks.

This looks like the best deal available for the Nuggets, who apparently covet Favors. The only thing that seems to be standing in the way is Anthony agreeing to sign a three-year extension to play for the Nets. If he does, the Knicks will be out of the running. If he doesnt, then I think the Knicks and Nuggets will get something done before the trade deadline. The Nuggets are truly at Carmelos mercy at the moment.

Courtesy of www.scoresreport.com

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28.9
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.28.9 
 2. James, Miami Heat26.1 
 3. Stoudemire, New Y.26.1 
 4. Wade, Miami Heat25.4 
 5. Ellis, Golde S.25.3 
 6. Anthony, Denver N.25.2 
 7. Bryant, LA Lakers25.0 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.24.9 
 9. Gordon, LA Clippers24.1 
 10. Martin, Houston R.22.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.5
 1. Love, Minnesota T.15.5 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.13.8 
 3. Randolph, Memph.13.2 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.12.6 
 5. Noah, Chicago B.11.7 
 6. Bogut, Milwauke.11.5 
 7. Camby, Portland TB11.3 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers10.3 
 9. Okafor, N.Orlean.10.1 
 10. Boozer, Chicago B.9.9 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Rondo, Boston C.12.2 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.3 
 3. Williams, Utah Jazz9.7 
 4. Paul, N.Orleans H.9.6 
 5. Felton, New Y.9.0 
 6. Calderon, Toron.9.0 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.9 
 8. Westbrook, Oklah..8.6 
 9. Kidd, Dallas M.8.2 
 10. Rose, Chicago B.8.2 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.4 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.2.3 
 3. Ellis, Golde S.2.2 
 4. Allen, Memphis G.1.8 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..1.8 
 6. Felton, New Y.1.8 
 7. Conley, Memphis G.1.8 
 8. Wall, Washington W.1.7 
 9. Curry, Golde S.1.7 
 10. Gay, Memphis G.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Bogut, Milwauke.2.8 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.4 
 3. Milicic, Minnesota T.2.3 
 4. Stoudemire, New Y.2.2 
 5. Howard, Orlando M.2.1 
 6. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.1 
 7. Duncan, San A.2.0 
 8. Camby, Portland TB1.9 
 9. Jefferson, Utah J.1.9 
 10. Okafor, N.Orlean.1.8 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 40-14 
 2. New York K. 28-26 
 3. Philadelph.76 27-29 
 4. New Jersey N. 17-40 
 5. Toronto R. 15-41 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 38-16 
 2. Indiana P. 24-30 
 3. Milwaukee B. 21-34 
 4. Detroit P. 21-36 
 5. Cleveland C. 10-46 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 41-15 
 2. Orlando M. 36-21 
 3. Atlanta H. 34-21 
 4. Charlotte B. 24-32 
 5. Washington W. 15-39 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 35-19 
 2. Portland TB 32-24 
 3. Denver N. 32-25 
 4. Utah Jazz 31-26 
 5. Minnesota T. 13-43 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 38-19 
 2. Phoenix Suns 27-27 
 3. Golde State W. 26-29 
 4. LA Clippers 21-35 
 5. Sacramento K. 13-40 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 46-10 
 2. Dallas M. 40-16 
 3. N.Orleans H. 33-25 
 4. Memphis G. 31-26 
 5. Houston R. 26-31 


Celebrity Game: Pippen still got it - by Carlos Chapa
The 2011 edition of the celebrity game presented a handful of retired NBA players, WNBA players and artists, although a great part of the crowd focused mainly on teenage singer Justin Bieber, many basketball fans had doubts on whether he could show some skills, and he proved them wrong running the point guard position decently.

A surprising comeback came in the hand of Scottie Pippen who shot 6 out of 8 from the field, leading all scorers with 17 points, his eastern team won with a final score of 54-49, but the MVP went to Bieber.

At the end of the evening fans went happy to their homes after watching their idols run the show and after watching an NBA legend in a great shape.

Thursday: Bulls and Mavs win - by Eurobasket News
Chicago B. - San Antonio S. 109-99
Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) had a career-high 42 points and the Chicago Bulls headed into the All-Star break with an impressive 109-99 victory over the NBA-leading San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night. Luol Deng (6'7''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) had 19 points and Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke) finished with 15 for Chicago, which shot 54 percent in its fourth consecutive win. The Bulls improved to 38-16 after winning 41 games last season. Once again hearing 'M-V-P! M-V-P!' chants, Rose was at his best when San Antonio challenged Chicago in the fourth quarter. He had 13 points in the final period, answering Spurs baskets with acrobatic drives and long jumpers. Rose's long jumper as the shot clock expired with 3:21 left gave Chicago a 101-90 lead and took the steam out of one San Antonio rally. He also finished with eight assists and five rebounds. Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) scored 26 points and All-Star Manu Ginobili added 16 for San Antonio, which had won six of seven. Reserve Gary Neal made four 3-pointers and finished with 16 points. *Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Phoenix Suns - Dallas M. 106-112
The Dallas Mavericks won their 40th game of the season, 13 out of 14 in the past month. And Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) seems to be just getting warmed up. Nowitzki, hitting his stride a month after returning from a knee injury, scored 35 points Thursday night to lead the Mavericks past the Phoenix Suns 112-106. 'Dirk's back. He is all the way back,' Dallas coach Rick Carlisle said, 'and it really is great.' Nowitzki missed nine games with a right knee sprain before coming back on Jan. 14. His performance Thursday night was by far his best since his return. 'I felt good,' Nowitzki said. 'I had a good rhythm early and made a couple of shots early, which usually helps. Over the last couple of weeks I haven't really shot the ball well. I hit my first couple of shots and had a good rhythm out there and kept on attacking.' Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) had 12 points and 12 rebounds, including a tip-in with 19 seconds left. Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) scored 16, capped by a pair of free throws with 14.1 seconds to play to give Dallas a 111-106 lead. Shawn Marion added 12 points as the Mavericks improved to 9-0 against Pacific Division foes, including 4-0 on the road. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com



Rookies and Sophomores crash once again - by Carlos Chapa
Rookies and sophomores had a chance to practice and get to know each other before facing once again.

We could expect a very competitive game, taking into account that last years rookie team (actual sophomore team) won the game after losing seven straight contests.

In the sophomore corner we have good defensive players like Serge Ibaka (6'10''-C/F-89) and Taj Gibson (6'9''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: USC), pin-point shooters like Stephen Curry (6'3''-G-88, college: Davidson) and Wesley Matthews (6'5''-G-86, college: Marquette) and last years record setting center DeJuan Blair (6'7''-F-89, college: Pittsburgh), they will be coached by former Nets coach Lawrence Frank , All-Star Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) and NBA analyst Steve Kerr (6'3''-G-65, college: Arizona).

On the other side we have a future franchise player in John Wall (6'4''-G-90, college: Kentucky) and versatile Knicks guard Landry Fields (6'7''-G/F-88, college: Stanford), DeMarcus Cousins (6'11''-F-90, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) and experienced rookie Gary Neal (6'4''-G-84, college: Towson) compliment this team, that will have Mike Budenholzer , Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) and Kevin McHale as coaches.



Both teams took NBA's Jam Session Center Court for a light practice and to meet and greet the press.

Full rosters:
ROOKIE TEAM ROSTER
Eric Bledsoe, L.A. Clippers, G
DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento, C
Derrick Favors, New Jersey, F
Landry Fields, New York, G
Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers, F
Wesley Johnson, Minnesota, G
Greg Monroe, Detroit, C
Gary Neal, San Antonio, G
John Wall, Washington, G

Coaches:
Mike Budenholzer -- San Antonio Spurs
Amar'e Stoudemire -- New York Knicks
Kevin McHale -- NBA TV/ TNT analyst
SOPHOMORE TEAM ROSTER

DeJuan Blair, San Antonio, C
DeMar DeRozan, Toronto, G
Stephen Curry, Golden State, G
* Tyreke Evans, Sacramento, G
Taj Gibson, Chicago, F
James Harden, Oklahoma City, G
Jrue Holiday, Philadelphia, G
Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City, F-C
Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee, G
Wesley Matthews, Portland, G

Coaches:
Lawrence Frank -- Boston Celtics
Carmelo Anthony -- Denver Nuggets
Steve Kerr -- TNT NBA basketball analyst
<<>><<>>



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


Omorogbe Jr. Confident of Immigration BC survival - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Newly promoted Kano-based Nigeria Immigration basketball club may have put all foot wrong in the Savannah conference of the DStv Premier Basketball league as it is yet to win any game losing both at home and away forcing speculation that it might not survive the heat of the big league in Nigeria but one it player, Nosa Omorogbe Junior is sure that though the club might be going through trying moment in the league but it will survive relegation at the end of the regular season.

Speaking with our correspondent recently, Omorogbe Jr. said its too early to write off the club as there are still over ten regular season games to be played as the players and coaching crew of the team have resolve to put in extra effort to make sure the club survive the tough terrain of the Nigeria DStv Premier which he described as one of the toughest in Africa.

The point guard want his teammates to see what the club is going through at the moment as its first baptism of fire in the big league after gaining promotion from the National Division-One in Kaduna last year.

The 21-year-old who played a prominent role in Immigration qualification to the Premier league has promised to put in extra effort to see that the team losing streak stopped.

Omorogbe Jr. had had stinct with such notable clubs in the Nigeria league clubs like Dodan Warriors basketball club, (2000-2003) (16ppg, 3rpg, 1.8spg, 0.2bpg, 29mpg, 5apg); Kano Pillars, Nigeria 2003-2006 (13ppg,4.1rpg,1.6spg,1.2bpg,22mpg,3apg); Dodan Warriors Nigeria 2006-2008 (19ppg,3rpg,0.8spg,0.7bpg,31mpg,3.8apg) and CSKA Sofia Bulgarian Pro A1 2008-2009 ( 9ppg,5rpg,2apg,0.4bpg,16mpg,3apg); Nigeria Customs BC 2009-2010. (21ppg,6rpg,7apg,4spg,32mpg,4.5apg).

The Nigeria Immigration team currently occupy the bottom of the table with 0-3 record in the Savannah conference of the DStv Premier League and only a concerted effort could see it survive the tough league from being relegated as it travel to Bauchi to keep a date with Yelwa Hawks basketball club of Bauchi in a week-4 pairing on Sunday.


*****************************************************
  PBL   


Rice number one in PBL for round 11 - by Eurobasket News
Guard Dwuan Rice (180-G) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Saint John M.R., receiving a Usbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 11.
The -year old player was the main contributor (23 points, eight rebounds and five assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Halifax R. (#2, 7-3) 83-78. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Saint John M.R. maintains the 4th position in PBL PBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Saint John M.R. will need more victories to improve their 5-4 record. Rice just recently signed at Saint John M.R. and just after two games he already turned to be a very valuable addition to the team. Former Cal State - Bakersfield star has very solid stats this year. Rice is league's best passer with 5.5apg. Rice

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old Sammy Monroe (198-F-85, agency: Prossin Sports Management) of Rochester R.. Monroe had a very good evening with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists. It was enough for Rochester R. to edge slightly higher-ranked Kentucky S. (#5, 4-7) 103-99. This victory allowed Rochester R. to move up to 6th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-6 record. Monroe is one of the most experienced players at Rochester R. and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. Former Newberry College star Monroe is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Saint John M.R.'s star - Dutch forward Stanley Ocitti (203-F/C-80). Ocitti scored 17 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). He was another key player of Saint John M.R., helping his team with a 119-99 easy win against the lower-ranked Dayton A. (#8, 2-9). Saint John M.R. needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 5 victories and 4 lost games. Ocitti has a very solid season. In 7 games in PBL he scored 6.9ppg. He also has 6.7rpg and 1.3bpg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kenny Jones (198-F-84) of Kentucky S. - 18 points and 10 rebounds
5. Terry Martin (198-G-87) of Saint John M.R. - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Everett Spencer (198-G/F-85) of Dayton A. - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
7. DeAnthony Bowden (186-G-80) of Lawton Ft.SC - 19 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Brandon Dean (188-G-79) of Lawton Ft.SC - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Kenny Langhorne (196-F/G-81) of Dayton A. - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Todd Sowell (201-F-86) of Dayton A. - 14 points and 10 rebounds

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

Round 11: Halifax Rainmen is defeated by Saint John Mill Rats - by Eurobasket News
The game between second ranked Halifax Rainmen (7-3) and fourth ranked Saint John Mill Rats (5-4) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Halifax Rainmen was defeated by Saint John Mill Rats in a tough game in Halifax 78-83. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Halifax Rainmen. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-78. Saint John Mill Rats made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for guard Dwuan Rice (5'11''-G, college: CSU Bakersfield) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Forward Ross DeMasi (203-86, college: SW Minnesota St.) helped adding 14 points and 10 rebounds. American forward Joshua Dollard (203-86, college: USC Aiken) responded with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. Saint John Mill Rats have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 5-4 record. Halifax Rainmen at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. Saint John Mill Rats will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Halifax Rainmen will play on the road against Rochester RazorSharks and is hoping to win this game.
PBL top team - Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry (9-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed eighth ranked Dayton Air Strikers (2-9) in Kettering 118-98. It was a quality performance for guard Brandon Dean (188-79, college: Arkansas) who led the winners and scored 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. DeAnthony Bowden accounted for 19 points. Swingman Kenny Langhorne (196-81, college: S.Arkansas, agency: ProSportsCareers) came up with 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for Dayton Air Strikers in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry maintains first place with 9-1 record. Dayton Air Strikers lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry will play against Kentucky Stallions (#5) in Lexington in the next round. Dayton Air Strikers will have a break next round.
The game in Kettering supposed to be also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Saint John Mill Rats (5-4) played at the court of 8th ranked Dayton Air Strikers (2-9). Saint John Mill Rats did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 119-99 on Wednesday. The best player for the winners was Stanley Ocitti who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds. Philip Mickey Perry produced 20 points and 6 rebounds (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) for the hosts. Dayton Air Strikers' coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Saint John Mill Rats have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 5-4 record. Dayton Air Strikers lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The game in Rochester was also worth to mention about. 5th ranked Kentucky Stallions (4-7) played at the court of seventh ranked Rochester RazorSharks (3-6). Rochester RazorSharks managed to secure a 4-point victory 103-99. Sammy Monroe orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Rochester RazorSharks moved-up to sixth place. Kentucky Stallions lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with seven games lost. Rochester RazorSharks' next round opponent will be league's second-placed Halifax Rainmen at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Kentucky Stallions will play against the league's leader Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry.


Dayton A. - Lawton Ft.SC 98-118

PBL top team - Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry (9-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed eighth ranked Dayton Air Strikers (2-9) in Kettering 118-98. The game was mostly controlled by Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry. Dayton Air Strikers was better in third quarter 26-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was a quality performance for guard Brandon Dean (188-79, college: Arkansas) who led the winners and scored 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Guard DeAnthony Bowden (186-80, college: Creighton) accounted for 19 points for the winning side. Swingman Kenny Langhorne (196-81, college: S.Arkansas, agency: ProSportsCareers) came up with 23 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and swingman Everett Spencer (198-85, college: S.Carolina St.) added 19 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Dayton Air Strikers in the defeat. Five Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry and four Dayton Air Strikers players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry maintains first place with 9-1 record. Dayton Air Strikers lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry will play against Kentucky Stallions (#5) in Lexington in the next round. Dayton Air Strikers will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Lawton Ft.SC: D.Bowden 19+3reb+3ast, B.Dean 18+8reb+6ast, E.Smith 14+4reb+3ast, J.Blackburn 14+3reb+1ast, S.Daniels 13+5reb+1ast, J.Davis 11+7reb+1ast
Dayton A.: K.Langhorne 23+6reb+4ast, E.Spencer 19+5reb+3ast, Q.Milum 16+7reb+1ast, B.Hassell 11+7reb+2ast, P.Mickey Perry 6+2reb+2ast, T.Sowell 6+8reb+1ast
gschID: 116057


Dayton A. - Saint John M.R. 99-119

The game in Kettering supposed to be also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Saint John Mill Rats (5-4) played at the court of 8th ranked Dayton Air Strikers (2-9). Saint John Mill Rats did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 119-99 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Saint John Mill Rats. Dayton Air Strikers managed to win fourth quarter 35-28. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Dayton Air Strikers 53-42 including 39 on the defensive glass. Saint John Mill Rats looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. The best player for the winners was Dutch-American power forward Stanley Ocitti (203-80, college: Binghamton) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds. Guard Terry Martin (198-87, college: LSU) chipped in 20 points and 5 assists. Guard Philip Mickey Perry (188, college: Dayton) produced 20 points and 6 rebounds (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!) and guard Tayloe Taylor (191-86, college: Livingstone) added 18 points and 6 assists respectively for the hosts. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Dayton Air Strikers' coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Saint John Mill Rats have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 5-4 record. Dayton Air Strikers lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Saint John M.R.: T.Martin 20+4reb+5ast, J.Ferguson 19+8reb+1ast, M.Egerson 18+6reb+4ast, S.Ocitti 17+14reb, A.Anderson 14+4reb+3ast, S.DeLuca 11+4reb+2ast
Dayton A.: P.Philip Mickey 20+6reb+3ast, P.Mickey Perry 19+3reb+2ast, T.Taylor 18+4reb+6ast, T.Sowell 14+10reb, E.Spencer 11+4reb+5ast, D.Grifin 7+6reb
gschID: 116058


Halifax R. - Saint John M.R. 78-83

The game between second ranked Halifax Rainmen (7-3) and fourth ranked Saint John Mill Rats (5-4) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Halifax Rainmen was defeated by Saint John Mill Rats in a tough game in Halifax 78-83. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Halifax Rainmen. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-78. Saint John Mill Rats made 24-of-31 free shots (77.4 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for guard Dwuan Rice (180, college: CSU Bakersfield) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Forward Ross DeMasi (203-86, college: SW Minnesota St.) helped adding 14 points and 10 rebounds. Four Saint John Mill Rats players scored in double figures. American forward Joshua Dollard (203-86, college: USC Aiken) responded with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import guard Mike Mercer (193-86, college: S.Florida) scored 12 points and 6 rebounds. Saint John Mill Rats have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 5-4 record. Halifax Rainmen at the other side keeps the second position with three games lost. Saint John Mill Rats will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Halifax Rainmen will play on the road against Rochester RazorSharks and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Saint John M.R.: D.Rice 23+8reb+5ast, M.Egerson 15+6reb+2ast, R.DeMasi 14+10reb+1ast, A.Anderson 11+4reb+5ast, T.Martin 9+3reb+3ast, R.Diggs 4+4reb
Halifax R.: J.Dollard 14+12reb+2ast, M.Mercer 12+6reb+2ast, E.Crookshank 9+9reb, T.Brown 9+1reb+6ast, K.Jones 9+3reb+2ast, M.Brown 8+6reb+4ast
gschID: 121713


Rochester R. - Kentucky S. 103-99

The game in Rochester was also worth to mention about. 5th ranked Kentucky Stallions (4-7) played at the court of seventh ranked Rochester RazorSharks (3-6). Rochester RazorSharks managed to secure a 4-point victory 103-99. The hosts were ahead by 5 points but lost the second period ending it with a 9-point deficit before their 31-18 run, which allowed them to win the game. Rochester RazorSharks forced 32 Kentucky Stallions turnovers. Strangely Kentucky Stallions outrebounded Rochester RazorSharks 54-32 including a 39-23 advantage in defensive rebounds. 35 personal fouls committed by Kentucky Stallions helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Sammy Monroe (198-85, college: Newberry, agency: Prossin Sports Management) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points and 5 rebounds. Power forward Eric Walton (204-79, college: San Jose St.) contributed with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Monroe is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Guard Justin Taylor (191-85, college: Georgetown, KY) answered with 20 points and 9 rebounds and forward Kenny Jones (198-84, college: Kentucky St.) added 18 points and 10 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) in the effort for Kentucky Stallions. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Rochester RazorSharks moved-up to sixth place. Kentucky Stallions lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with seven games lost. Rochester RazorSharks' next round opponent will be league's second-placed Halifax Rainmen at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Kentucky Stallions will play against the league's leader Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry.
Top scorers:
Rochester R.: S.Monroe 22+5reb+2ast, M.Williams 14+6reb, J.Crouch 14+1reb+3ast, E.Walton 13+10reb+2ast, M.Council 12+1reb+2ast, F.Durr 12+2reb
Kentucky S.: J.Taylor 20+9reb+1ast, K.Jones 18+10reb+1ast, G.Baker 13+2reb+5ast, D.Guions 11+6reb+2ast, J.McLeish 10+4reb, B.Harris 10+4reb
gschID: 116055




Rainmen welcome Kenneth Cooper - by Eurobasket News
The Halifax Rainmen are pleased to announce the arrival of 6-foot-10, 260-pound centre, Kenneth Cooper (6'10''-C-87, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: UAB).

Cooper played for Oklahoma State University during the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 seasons, and then moved on play for Louisiana Tech and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

After college, Cooper played professionally in Portugal, where he was a starting five player.

'Kenneth gives us a player who has a bigger post presence, can make the mid-range jumpshot, and can help secure the ability to rebound the basketball,' said Head Coach Mike Evans.

Cooper will join the team for their weekend road game in Rochester, and will make his Metro Centre debut on Saturday, March 5 against the Quebec Kebs.

Tickets for the March 5 game can be purchased at any Ticket Atlantic location or at the Metro Centre Box Office. For group rate inquiries, please visit www.rainmenbasketball.ca.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Standings
PBL Standings
 1. Lawton Ft.SC 10-1 
 2. Halifax R. 7-3 
 3. Quebec K. 7-4 
 4. Saint John M.R. 5-4 
 5. Kentucky S. 4-8 
 6. Rochester R. 3-6 
 7. Vermont FH 2-5 
 8. Dayton A. 2-9 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mike WILLIAMS
  Rochester R.
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Williams, Vermo.20.9 
 2. Brown, Quebec K.19.8 
 3. Jones, Kentucky S.18.5 
 4. Miles, Dayton A.17.5 
 5. Anderson, Saint J.17.3 
 6. Parran, Quebec K.17.2 
 7. Martin, Saint J.17.2 
 8. Crouch, Rocheste.17.0 
 9. Allen, Vermont FH16.7 
 10. Egerson, Saint J.16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Eric CROOKSHANK
  Halifax R.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Crookshank, Halif.11.3 
 2. Williams, Vermo.10.3 
 3. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC9.2 
 4. Walton, Rocheste.8.4 
 5. Dollard, Halifax R.8.2 
 6. DeMasi, Vermont FH8.0 
 7. Jones, Kentucky S.7.8 
 8. Harris, Kentucky S.7.7 
 9. Jones, Halifax R.7.7 
 10. Ocitti, Saint J.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Dwuan RICE
  Saint John M.R.
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Rice, Vermont FH7.6 
 2. Parran, Quebec K.6.1 
 3. Brown, Halifax R.6.1 
 4. Anderson, Saint J.5.7 
 5. Egerson, Saint J.5.1 
 6. Bowden, Lawton F.4.0 
 7. Acker, Quebec K.3.8 
 8. Brown, Quebec K.3.7 
 9. Hill, Dayton A.3.7 
 10. Fountain, Lawton F.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Dwuan RICE
  Saint John M.R.
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 3
 1. Rice, Vermont FH3.0 
 2. Parran, Quebec K.2.9 
 3. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC2.5 
 4. Brown, Quebec K.2.3 
 5. Anderson, Saint J.2.2 
 6. Austin, Vermont FH2.0 
 7. Gilchrese, Saint J.1.8 
 8. Miles, Dayton A.1.8 
 9. Martin, Saint J.1.6 
 10. McCroskey, Quebec K.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Perry STEVENSON
  Rochester R.
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Stevenson, Rocheste.1.5 
 2. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC1.4 
 3. George, Dayton A.1.3 
 4. Carter, Rocheste.1.3 
 5. Ocitti, Saint J.1.3 
 6. Daniels, Lawton F.1.2 
 7. Dollard, Halifax R.1.0 
 8. Williams, Vermo.0.9 
 9. Delk, Kentucky S.0.8 
 10. DeMasi, Vermont FH0.8 


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


Sebastian Balcerzak back to AZS Koszalin - by Eurobasket News
Sebastian Balcerzak (195-F-80, agency: Promotex) is coming back to AZS Koszalin. The forward played for AZS Koszalin from 1996 through 2007 season. In 2008/09 season Sebastian Balcerzak moved to Resovia Rzeszow. He returned to AZS Koszalin in 2009/10 season and tallied 4.7 points and 2.0 rebounds per game. This season the player started in Asseco Prokom. He however did not appear in a single official game with the Polish champions. So the forward returned to AZS Koszalin and has already signed a new deal. He will not strengthen the team in the upcoming game against Prokom as his contract does not allow playing against the Gdynia outfit this season.


DBE Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ted SCOTT
  SKK Kotwica
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 26.7
 1. Scott, SKK Kotwica26.7 
 2. Hinson, Polonia Azbud17.5 
 3. Reese, AZS Koszalin16.4 
 4. Frazier, AZS K.16.4 
 5. Hodge, Zastal16.1 
 6. Miller, PBG Basket15.7 
 7. Burgess, Zastal15.5 
 8. Bennerman, Energa C.15.4 
 9. Goffney, Siarka14.5 
 10. Jovanovic, Anwil14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Harris, SKK K.10.9 
 2. Truscott, Siarka10.9 
 3. Burgess, Zastal10.5 
 4. NaNa, Polonia Azbud8.7 
 5. Easley, Polonia Azbud7.3 
 6. Wysocki, PGE Turow7.3 
 7. Palmer, Polonia Azbud6.5 
 8. Dylewicz, Trefl Sopot6.4 
 9. Kinloch, AZS K.6.4 
 10. Ceranic, Trefl S.6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Jerel BLASSINGAME
  Energa Czarni
  (177-G-81)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Blassingame, Energa C.6.5 
 2. Milicic, AZS K.6.1 
 3. Thomas, PGE Turow5.1 
 4. Skibniewski, Polph.5.0 
 5. Hodge, Zastal4.6 
 6. Hawkins, PBG B.4.5 
 7. Ewing, Asseco P.3.7 
 8. Vaughn, Polpharma3.4 
 9. Thompson, Anwil3.2 
 10. Thomas, Anwil3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Walter HODGE
  Zastal
  (183-G-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Hodge, Zastal2.8 
 2. Hinson, Polonia Azbud2.4 
 3. Ewing, Asseco P.2.2 
 4. Skibniewski, Polph.2.1 
 5. Pringle, Siarka2.1 
 6. Blassingame, Energa C.2.1 
 7. Thomas, PGE Turow1.9 
 8. Hawkins, PBG B.1.8 
 9. Milicic, AZS K.1.8 
 10. Bialek, Energa Czarni1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Harris, SKK K.2.0 
 2. Lapeta, Asseco P.1.5 
 3. Easley, Polonia Azbud1.5 
 4. Burgess, Zastal1.3 
 5. Hicks, Anwil1.3 
 6. Reese, AZS Koszalin1.0 
 7. Davis, Energa C.0.9 
 8. Mirkovic, Polpharma0.8 
 9. Miller, Anwil0.8 
 10. Kesicki, Zastal0.8 


*****************************************************
  ROMANIA   


Romanian Cup quarterfinal results - by Eurobasket News
Romanian Cup Final Four participants became known. Gaz Metan, Ploiesti, Targu Mures and Steaua Turabo will fight for the trophy this year.
Gaz Metan overcame Otopeni in two games. The second game finished with Gaz Metan claiming an 80:65 win (Gaz Metan won the first encounter 112:70). Uros Velickovic (190-G-83, agency: BeoExcell) nailed 20 points to pace the effort. Damien Kinloch (203-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Tennessee Tech) contributed 16 points in the winning effort. Brian Burell (191-G-84, college: UTPA) responded with 23 points and 9 rebounds for Otopeni.
Ploiesti entered the second clash with Pitesti having a 22-point cushion after a home game. Ploiesti dominated this one as well. They rallied to a 77:73 win at the end. Vlad Dogaru (184-G-85) and Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77, agency: Court Side) paced well-balanced effort with 12 points each. Adrian Tudor added 11 points in the victory. Alexandru Negut (192-F-89) accounted for 19 points in the loss.
Steaua Turabo thrashed visiting Timisoara 96:63 to advance. Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Alabama) tallied 26 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists to pace the winners. Bogdan Popescu (201-F-78, college: Alaska-Fairb.) contributed 22 points and 9 boards in the victory. Timisoara responded with 14 points from Nenad Markovic (199-F-80).
Targu Mures won both games against Craiova. Mures claimed a 66:63 win in Game 2. Craiova led by 10 points after three quarters but failed to capitalize. Targu Mures went on a strong fourth-quarter rally to eke out the victory. JuJuan Cooley (175-G-82, agency: Agency No 10, college: Indiana Tech) and Aleksandar Mladenovic (207-F/C-84, agency: BeoExcell) contributed 20 points each for Targu Mures. Jermont Horton (198-G-83, college: Rutgers-Newark) and Kenneth Simms (203-C, college: Cumberland) replied with 19 points apiece in the loss.


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


Mijajlovic number one in Serbia for round 21 - by Eurobasket News
Center Sasa Mijajlovic (211-C-80) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Sloga, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds, while his team edged out Proleter Naftagas (#11, 9-12) 77-74. Sloga maintains the 7th position in Serbian A League. Sloga 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 10-11 record. Mijajlovic just recently signed at Sloga and just after two games he already turned to be a very valuable addition to the team. Sasa Mijajlovic averages just after two games 21.0ppg and 11.0rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was young Nikola Pesakovic (193-G-91) of KK Borac Cacak. Pesakovic had a very good evening with 28 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. It was enough for Borac to edge the higher-ranked FMP (#1, 19-2) 85-83. This victory allowed Borac to move up to 10th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 9-12 record. Pesakovic is well-known at Borac and is a proven leader in his second season with the team.

Third on the list of top players last round was guard Milijan Bocka (186-G-82, agency: 011 Sports) of KK Crnokosa Kosjeric (#13). Bocka showcased his all-around game by recording 23 points, five rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of Crnokosa, leading his team to a 89-75 easy win against slightly higher-ranked Napredak (#12, 8-13). The chances of Crnokosa not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 14 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Bocka could try to bring Crnokosa's a little bit higher in the standings. Bocka has a very solid season. In 15 games in Serbia he scored 15.3ppg. He also has 4.1rpg, 3.1apg and FGP: 55.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Nemanja Karalic (207-C-88) of Crnokosa - 20 points and 5 rebounds
5. Maksim Kovacevic (199-G/F-87) of Superfund - 27 points, 2 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Stefan Sinovec (195-G-88) of Metalac - 32 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Sanel Mukanovic (192-G-83) of Crnokosa - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Nikola Micevic (196-G-82) of Sloboda Uzice - 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Marko Ljubicic (197-F-87) of Metalac - 9 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Vedran Borovcanin (201-F-85) of Sloga - 20 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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


Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Sonic Boom KT 30-13 
 2. Elephants 30-13 
 3. Dongbu Promy 28-16 
 4. KCC Egis 25-18 
 5. Samsung Th. 24-19 
 6. SK Knights 20-23 
 7. LG Sakers 18-25 
 8. Mobis Phoebus 15-28 
 9. Anyang KGC 14-29 
 10. Daegu Orions 12-32 


*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


CB Granada inks Hector Manzano - by Eurobasket News
Hector Manzano (205-C/F-80) is a new player of CB Granada. He signed deal for rest of the season. Manzano already was a member of Granada in the past and it was from 2001 to 2003. He had 3.8 ppg and 1.7 rpg in their second season together.
Hector Manzano started this season with LEB Gold team Lleida. He appeared 23 times for them averaging 10 points and 4.9 rebounds. Last season, Manzano spent with Xacobeo BS. He had 5.1 ppg and 2.1 rpg for 22 games, but his team faced with relegation from ACB. In the past, Manzano also played for Vic, La Palma and Gandia. He was a member of Spanish U21 National Team back in 2001.

Vitor Faverani claims Spanish LEB Gold weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Brazilian Vitor Faverani (211-C-88) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best CB Murcia and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com LEB Gold Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 22-year old center had the game-high 23 points adding five rebounds and two assists for CB Murcia in his team's victory, helping them to crush Leon (#5, 15-8) with 19-point margin 102-83. CB Murcia maintains the 2nd position in Spanish LEB Gold. They are still close to the very top. CB Murcia would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 20-3 record. In the team's last game Faverani had a remarkable 80.0% from 2-point range. It's his second year at CB Murcia and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Faverani has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (7th best: 15.1ppg) and averages solid 1.2bpg and 71.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 27-year old center Oliver Arteaga (211-C-83) of Leche Rio Breogan Lugo. Arteaga impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Breogan was edged in overtime by the higher-ranked Burgos (#3, 18-5) 83-82. Breogan managed to keep the same 12th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 9-14 record. Arteaga is a newcomer at Breogan and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Roger Fornas (202-F-82) of CB Tarragona (#15). Fornas showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, nine rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of CB Tarragona, leading his team to a 80-78 win against slightly higher-ranked Clinicas Rincon (#13, 9-14). The chances of CB Tarragona not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 15 games, recording just eight victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Fornas could try to bring CB Tarragona's a little bit higher in the standings. Fornas has a very solid season. In 23 games in Spain he scored 10.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Adrian Moss (204-C/F-81) of Palencia - 20 points and 7 rebounds
5. Christopher Lee (206-C) of Navarra - 27 points and 8 rebounds
6. Oriol Junyent (207-C-76) of Obradoiro - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Miguel Montanana (206-F/C-80) of Melilla - 18 points and 6 rebounds
8. Ryan Humphrey (203-F-79) of Caceres - 15 points and 10 rebounds
9. Ondrej Starosta (215-C-79) of Ourense - 17 points and 8 rebounds
10. Jeff Foote (213-C-88) of Melilla - 16 points and 7 rebounds

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

Standings - LEB Silver
LEB Silver Standings
 1. Clavijo 16-3 
 2. Andorra 16-4 
 3. Mallorca 15-4 
 4. Promobys 12-6 
 5. Plasencia 11-8 
 6. ADT Tarragona 10-9 
 7. Prat Juventud 9-10 
 8. Oviedo Feve 8-11 
 9. Avila 7-11 
 10. Regal FC II 7-11 
 11. Santurtzi 7-12 
 12. Illescas 6-13 
 13. Guadalajara 6-13 
 14. Coruna 6-13 
 15. Lan Mobel ISB 6-14 


Stats Leaders-LEB Silver
Points Per Game
 Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 16.4
 1. Witt, Clavijo16.4 
 2. Ratzsch, Oviedo F.15.6 
 3. Barcelo, Plasencia15.2 
 4. Mortellaro, Lan M.15.2 
 5. Bivia, Mallorca15.1 
 6. Ramsdell, Avila14.7 
 7. Bratton, Lan M.14.7 
 8. Justo, Avila14.6 
 9. O''Leary, Oviedo F.14.6 
 10. Garcia, Illescas14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Olaseni LAWAL
  Guadalajara
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Lawal, Guadalajara10.8 
 2. O''Leary, Oviedo F.9.3 
 3. Chubrevich, Illescas8.3 
 4. De Santana, Clavijo7.8 
 5. Larry, Regal F.7.8 
 6. Mortellaro, Lan M.7.7 
 7. Mesa, Clavijo7.6 
 8. Ramsdell, Avila7.3 
 9. Howard, Andorra7.2 
 10. Todorovic, Prat J.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Witt, Clavijo5.7 
 2. Uriz, Santurtzi5.2 
 3. Lopez, Coruna5.1 
 4. Ibargutxi, Lan M.4.4 
 5. Marco, ADT T.4.2 
 6. Bivia, Mallorca4.0 
 7. Rufian, Promobys3.8 
 8. Bavosi, Promobys3.5 
 9. Machuca, Illescas3.3 
 10. Zamora, Andorra3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jonathan BARCELO
  Plasencia
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Barcelo, Plasencia2.1 
 2. Uriz, Santurtzi2.0 
 3. Martinez, Plasencia1.9 
 4. Guirao, ADT T.1.8 
 5. Larry, Regal F.1.7 
 6. Ramsey, Promobys1.7 
 7. Witt, Clavijo1.7 
 8. Casado, Santurtzi1.6 
 9. Bratton, Lan M.1.6 
 10. Alonso, Mallorca1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Bismack BIYOMBO
  Fuenlabrada
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Biyombo, Illescas1.9 
 2. Mbaye, Regal F.1.8 
 3. Lawal, Guadalajara1.3 
 4. Todorovic, Prat J.1.3 
 5. Cage, ADT Tarragona1.1 
 6. Conde, Avila1.1 
 7. De Santana, Clavijo1.1 
 8. Johnson, Andorra0.9 
 9. Hampl, Santurtzi0.8 
 10. Aramburu, ADT T.0.8 


Earl Calloway returns from injury - by Eurobasket News
Good news for Cajasol Sevilla. American guard Earl Calloway (191-G-83, college: Indiana) recovered from right foot injury, which kept him out of the court for almost three months. He got 3 minutes in the latest EuroCup game against ALBA Berlin.
Earl Calloway was one of the best Cajasol players last season. He appeared 36 times in ACB averaging 9.4 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.2 assists. This season, he played 7 games in ACB before the injury. Last time he appeared in November against Granada. Calloway had 10 ppg and 2.7 apg for these seven games. Before Cajasol, he spent one season with Cibona Zagreb. He helped them to win the Croatian title and was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Adriatic League Import Player of the Year -09. In 2007/08, Calloway played for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants.

*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings
 1. Sundsvall 24-5 
 2. LF Basket 20-9 
 3. Sodertalje 19-11 
 4. Norrkoping 18-8 
 5. Uppsala 14-13 
 6. Solna 13-16 
 7. Boras 11-18 
 8. Jamtland 11-19 
 9. 08 8-20 
 10. Eco Orebro 5-24 


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Darius HARGROVE
  Jamtland
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Hargrove, Jamtland21.9 
 2. Brown, 0821.7 
 3. Smith, Uppsala20.2 
 4. Smith, Sodertalje20.0 
 5. Rush, Sundsvall19.9 
 6. Wesby, Sundsvall18.8 
 7. McCoy, Boras18.8 
 8. Palm, Boras18.4 
 9. Gunnarsson, Solna18.1 
 10. Kjellbom, Norrkoping16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Hlynur BAERINGSSON
  Sundsvall
  (200-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Baeringsson, Sunds.10.6 
 2. Palm, Boras9.1 
 3. McKnight, Boras9.1 
 4. Brown, 088.8 
 5. Kosmalski, Solna8.6 
 6. Constantine, Solna8.1 
 7. Kjellbom, Norrkoping7.9 
 8. Walker, Solna7.5 
 9. Kohlmaier, Uppsala7.2 
 10. Cipriano, Eco O.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Mbemba, LF Basket6.5 
 2. Pleick, Eco Orebro5.6 
 3. Beck, 085.0 
 4. Mitchell, Norrkoping4.7 
 5. Smith, Uppsala4.5 
 6. McCoy, Boras4.4 
 7. Hellgren, Jamtland4.4 
 8. Gaidamaviciu., Norrko.4.3 
 9. Smith, Sodertalje4.1 
 10. Chuk, Sodertalje4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Smith, Sodertalje3.6 
 2. Mbemba, LF Basket3.3 
 3. Rush, Sundsvall2.1 
 4. Smith, Uppsala2.0 
 5. Hellgren, Jamtland1.9 
 6. McCoy, Boras1.9 
 7. Wesby, Sundsvall1.7 
 8. Brown, 081.7 
 9. Hargrove, Jamtland1.7 
 10. Baeringsson, Sunds.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Bilal SALAAM
  Jamtland
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Salaam, Jamtland2.0 
 2. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.7 
 3. Rosendahl, LF Ba.1.7 
 4. Palm, Boras1.6 
 5. Kohlmaier, Uppsala1.2 
 6. Ayuba, Norrkoping1.2 
 7. Cipriano, Eco O.1.1 
 8. Constantine, Solna1.1 
 9. Walker, Solna1.0 
 10. Mosley, Eco Orebro0.9 


*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


SBL Week 7 MVP: Shawn Hawkins - by Chris Wang
KKL import Hawkins Shawn (198-G/F-82, college: Long Beach St.) was named SBL Week 7 MVP after a brilliant week during which he averaged an astonishing 45.7 points and 14.3 rebounds in three games.

Hawkins scored 137 points in three nights, including 43 points in the game vs. Taiwan Beer, 31 points against Taiwan Mobile and a SBL single game record 63 points against Yulon.

The American forward, who join KKL in mid season, said he would trade the scoring record for more wins. KKL head coach Lo Tien-ching said he gave Hawkins the green lights to showcase his offensive skills on the court since the team has been plagued by injuries this season.

Despite Hawkins' awesome performance, KKL ranked last in the seven-team league as of Saturday.

2010-11 SBL Weekly MVPs:
Week 7: Hawkins Shawn (KKL)
Week 6: Hong Chih-shan (PY)
Week 5: Yang Ching-min (TB)
Week 4: Rashad Jones-Jennings (PY)
Week 3: Rashad Jones-Jennings (PY)
Week 2: Yang Ching-min (TB)
Week 1: Tseng Wen-ting (Yulon)


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


Standings - BBL
BBL Standings
 1. Newcastle 15-4 
 2. Liverpool MT 14-4 
 3. Glasgow Rocks 13-6 
 4. Cheshire Jets 13-7 
 5. Sheffield Sharks 12-5 
 6. Leicester Riders 10-9 
 7. Plymouth 10-10 
 8. Guildford Heat 10-10 
 9. Worcester 9-13 
 10. MK Lions 8-9 
 11. Worthing 1-18 
 12. Essex Pirates 0-20 


Stats Leaders - BBL
Points Per Game
 Jeremy BELL
  Cheshire Jets
  (183-G-83)
  Avg: 23.4
 1. Bell, Cheshire Jets23.4 
 2. Moore, Newcastle23.0 
 3. Smith, Newcastle20.9 
 4. Zabas, Plymouth20.5 
 5. Dagostino, Sheffi.20.4 
 6. Gilbert, Worcester20.3 
 7. Nelson, MK Lions20.3 
 8. Chapman, Newcastle19.8 
 9. Blount, Leices.19.6 
 10. Stout, Sheffiel.19.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shaun DURANT
  Worthing
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 9.9
 1. Durant, Worthing9.9 
 2. Rowe, Plymouth9.4 
 3. Nottley, Worthing9.3 
 4. Myers, MK Lions9.2 
 5. Missere, Leices.9.0 
 6. Tuck, Sheffiel.8.8 
 7. Polk, Plymouth8.6 
 8. Williams, Sheffi.8.5 
 9. Greer, Cheshire.8.4 
 10. Toney, Liverpoo.8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Trey MOORE
  Newcastle
  (192-G-75)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Moore, Newcastle6.2 
 2. Clark, MK Lions5.8 
 3. Zabas, Plymouth5.4 
 4. Bolds, MK Lions5.1 
 5. Middleton, Worce.4.5 
 6. Blount, Leices.4.4 
 7. Patton, Sheffi.4.2 
 8. Bell, Cheshire Jets3.9 
 9. Harrison, Glasgow .3.9 
 10. Missere, Leices.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Demarius BOLDS
  MK Lions
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Bolds, MK Lions3.1 
 2. Middleton, Worce.2.5 
 3. Bell, Cheshire Jets2.2 
 4. Clark, MK Lions2.1 
 5. Moore, Newcastle2.1 
 6. Gumbs, Plymouth2.0 
 7. Harrison, Glasgow .2.0 
 8. Greer, Cheshire.1.9 
 9. Prezzie-Blue, Worth.1.9 
 10. Livas, Glasgow .1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Otis POLK
  Plymouth
  (206-C-88)
  Avg: 2
 1. Polk, Plymouth2.0 
 2. Missere, Leices.1.8 
 3. Richard, Newcastle1.5 
 4. Potter, Leices.1.1 
 5. Sturt, Essex P.1.1 
 6. Dobbins, Worcester1.0 
 7. Williams, Sheffi.0.9 
 8. Toney, Liverpoo.0.8 
 9. Nelson, MK Lions0.7 
 10. Tuck, Sheffiel.0.6 


BBL Weekend Preview - by Paul Nilsen

Prestige Homes MK Lions are one of the in-form teams in the BBL Championship right now but will have their recent good run put to the test this weekend when they match-up against title chasing duo Glasgow Rocks and Cheshire Jets.

Having had a slow start to the season, the Lions have come alive during the last month and certainly wont be fearful of what lies in wait with two wins over Mersey Tigers already under their belt. The Lions host Jets at Winterhill tonight before making the long trip North to Kelvin Hall on Sunday.

Coach Michael New (206-F/C-68, college: N.Mexico St.) isnt surprised as everyone else with the red-hot form of his team, insisting it was always a matter of time before things finally turned good.

We have known all along that we weren't far off from getting the W's! explained the play-caller.

If you look at our overall losses, five of them have been by 5 points or less and four more were by less than 10 points. So when you know that you are close, it's just a matter of developing more continuity, working hard to understand our philosophies and not getting discouraged after a tough start.

It is also a huge benefit that as much potential as a number of players on our team have, they are all very coachable and want to become a better team.

As well as the Lions being put to the test, the Rocks certainly have a tough couple of games. For not only do they host the dangerous Lions on Sunday, they also host high flying Mersey Tigers this evening as they look to get their title bid back on track by bouncing back from letting Newcastle Eagles come back from a 16 point deficit last time out.

The Eagles themselves managed to escape from last weekends tough double headers against Jets and Rocks unscathed in terms of their title ambitions but not so in terms of injury after losing the services of the free-scoring Joe Chapman. Their win in Glasgow was one of the performances of the season but they will really have to dig deep one more when they host One Health Sharks Sheffield tonight at Spots Central and then travel to Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders tomorrow.

The Sharks will arrive on Tyneside out for revenge after being crushed at the turn of the year while Riders were also demolished by the defending champions last month. After their trip to the North-East, Sharks will then head to Worcester to face a Wolves team who almost sprung a surprise a couple of weeks ago with victory in Sheffield. Paul James and his players harvested two wins last weekend and their new found confidence could pose problems for the Sharks who certainly dodged a bullet in their last meeting with Wolves.

One of the biggest clashed of the weekend will take place on the South Coast where the bottom two clubs who still only have one win between them will come together to fight it out for a precious victory. Worthing Thunder will host Essex Pirates tomorrow night with the visitors hoping they can get a win this time having blown a major opportunity the last time the team met.Certainly the visit to Worthing looks much more of a realistic prospect for a win than their visit to UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders on Sunday.

Two teams looking to bounce back from recent poor runs are Guildford Heat and Cheshire Jets. The Heat host the Jets looking to erase the memory of their horrific performance and defeat at Riders last weekend while whatever happens in Milton Keynes, Paul Smith and his Jets team cant afford another dent in their title bid with a loss at Guildford - especially having lost twice last weekend.


*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Bigua took a 1-0 lead for the LUB semifinals - by Hector Lopez
Bigua beat Aguadsa 88-82 to take a 1-0 lead over Aguada for the best of five LUB semifinals. Emilio Taboada (191-F-82) nettd 22 points, including 5/10 three points shots, while Michael Sweetney (203-F-82, college: Georgetown) added 18 with 11 rebounds and Elgrace Wilborn (203-F-83, college: W.Kentucky) netted 15 with 13 rebounds. For Aguada Alejandro Muro (187-G-74, agency: Players Group) scored 20, Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 12 with 7 rebounds and Benjamin Puckett (205-F-83, college: Clayton St.) netted 9 and grabbed 6 rebounds. Aguada took a 10 point lead (31-21) during the second quarter. During the third quarter Bigua took the lead with a 19-6 run and in the next quarter lead the game by 16 (79-63). All the games are played in a neutral stadium and the next game is scheduled for Monday 21.

*****************************************************
  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19   


Groups Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Brazil0-0
2. Poland0-0
3. Russia0-0
4. Tunisia0-0
Group B
1. Argentina0-0
2. Australia0-0
3. Latvia0-0
4. Taiwan0-0
Group C
1. Canada0-0
2. Croatia0-0
3. S.Korea0-0
4. Lithuania0-0
Group D
1. China0-0
2. Egypt0-0
3. Serbia0-0
4. USA0-0




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

Women News

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE - Women  


SIbenik secure Final-Four spot - by Zeljko Zule
Sibenik Jolly JBS have secured themselves a spot in the Final-Four, following their 70-59 victory over a direct rival Jedinstvo tonight in the postponed game of Week 13. Ahead by 1 points at the break, 29-28, Sibenik outscored the Montenegrin team 25-11 in the third period. Neda Lokas (182-F-85) had 16 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists, Luca Ivankovic scored 18 points and Marta Cakic added 12. Jedinstvo played without injured top scorers Jasmina Bigovic and Brankica Hadzovic. Sanja Knezevic had 17 points and 10 rebounds, Natasa Popovic collected 14 points and 9 rebounds and Zivana Jankovic scored 14 points.

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Standings - WNBL
WNBL Standings
 1. Bulleen B. 18-3 
 2. Canberra C. 17-4 
 3. Bendigo S. 15-7 
 4. Dandenong R. 12-9 
 5. Logan T. 11-10 
 6. Sydney UF 10-10 
 7. Townsville F. 9-11 
 8. Waves 7-14 
 9. Adelaide 3-18 
 10. AIS 3-19 


Stats Leaders - WNBL
Points Per Game
 Elizabeth CAMBAGE
  Bulleen B.
  (203-C-91)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Cambage, Bulle.22.1 
 2. Denson, Sydney UF18.9 
 3. Madgen, Bendigo S.15.7 
 4. Ebzery, Sydney UF15.6 
 5. Macleod, Dandenon.15.5 
 6. Bishop, Dandenon.15.0 
 7. Marino, Adelaide14.5 
 8. Batkovic-B., Canber.14.4 
 9. Walker, Adelaide14.3 
 10. Graham, Logan T.14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cayla FRANCIS
  Logan T.
  (192-C-89)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Francis, Logan T.9.3 
 2. Tolo, Canberra C.8.8 
 3. Cambage, Bulle.8.1 
 4. Gahan, Dandenong R.7.6 
 5. Evans, Townsville F.7.3 
 6. Bishop, Dandenon.7.2 
 7. Penaluna, Bulleen B.7.2 
 8. Denson, Sydney UF7.0 
 9. Richards, Bendi.7.0 
 10. Veal, Logan T.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Kristen VEAL
  Logan T.
  (176-G-81)
  Avg: 6
 1. Veal, Logan T.6.0 
 2. Macleod, Dandenon.5.4 
 3. O''Hea, Bulleen B.5.2 
 4. Harrower, Bendi.5.2 
 5. Bevilaqua, Waves4.7 
 6. Flanagan, Townsvil.4.6 
 7. Marino, Adelaide3.9 
 8. Walker, Adelaide3.3 
 9. Milner, Bulleen B.2.9 
 10. Hunt, Canberra C.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Kristen VEAL
  Logan T.
  (176-G-81)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Veal, Logan T.2.5 
 2. Bevilaqua, Waves2.2 
 3. Batkovic-B., Canber.2.1 
 4. Walker, Adelaide1.9 
 5. Cole, AIS1.8 
 6. Zavecz, Bulleen B.1.5 
 7. Cosier, Canberra C.1.5 
 8. Allen, AIS1.4 
 9. Hill, Townsville F.1.4 
 10. Langford, Adelaide1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Elizabeth CAMBAGE
  Bulleen B.
  (203-C-91)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Cambage, Bulle.2.9 
 2. Tolo, Canberra C.2.7 
 3. Walker, Adelaide1.9 
 4. Robinson, Dandenon.1.6 
 5. Penaluna, Bulleen B.1.3 
 6. Francis, Logan T.1.3 
 7. Newley, Adelaide1.3 
 8. Harper, Waves1.1 
 9. Batkovic-B., Canber.1.1 
 10. Evans, Townsville F.1.1 


*****************************************************
  CANADA - Women  


CIS Standings
CIS Standings
AUS
 1. Cape Breton 11-3 
 2. New Brunsw. 8-3 
 3. St.Francis X. 7-4 
 4. Memorial 7-5 
 5. St.Mary's 7-7 
 6. Acadia 5-6 
 7. Dalhousie 3-8 
 8. UPEI 0-12 
Canada West
 1. Saskatchewan 14-2 
 2. Alberta 14-4 
 3. Regina 13-3 
 4. Winnipeg 13-3 
 5. UBC 13-5 
 6. Victoria 13-5 
 7. UFV 8-8 
 8. Thompson R. 7-11 
 9. Calgary 6-10 
 10. Manitoba 4-12 
 11. Lethbridge 4-14 
 12. Trinity West. 1-17 
 13. Brandon 0-16 
QSSF
 1. McGill 8-1 
 2. UQAM 5-4 
 3. Concordia 5-5 
 4. Laval 3-6 
 5. Bishop's 2-7 
UOA East
 1. Carleton 12-2 
 2. Toronto Univ. 11-4 
 3. Ottawa 9-5 
 4. Ryerson 6-9 
 5. York 5-10 
 6. Laurentian 4-11 
 7. Queen's 3-12 
 8. RMC 1-14 
UOA West
 1. Western 12-2 
 2. Windsor 11-2 
 3. Lakehead 10-4 
 4. Laurier 10-4 
 5. Brock 9-5 
 6. Guelph 8-6 
 7. McMaster 3-10 
 8. Waterloo 0-14 


*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Standings - ZBL (W)
ZBL Standings
A1
 1. USK Praha 17-1 
 2. Frisco Sika 16-1 
 3. Slovanka MB 12-6 
 4. Trutnov 10-8 
A2
 1. Strakonice 8-10 
 2. Valosun Brno 7-10 
 3. Hradec Kralove 6-11 
 4. Karlovy Vary 6-12 
 5. VS Praha 6-13 
 6. Pardubice 1-17 


1Liga Standings - by Eurobasket
1Liga Standings
 1. BA Sparta 16-2 
 2. VSE Praha 13-5 
 3. Kralupy-Jr. 11-7 
 4. Benesov 10-8 
 5. Karlin 9-9 
 6. Sparta Praha 9-9 
 7. Valosun B 9-9 
 8. Frisco Sika B 7-11 
 9. Ostrava 7-11 
 10. Sokol Pecky 7-11 
 11. Olomouc 6-12 
 12. Aritma Praha 4-14 


*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN - Women  


Astana Tigers clear off on top - by Eurobasket News
Astana Tigers stand alone on top of D1 standings. The Tigers claimed two victories in the latest games. They upset Taraz in back-to-back games. The first game ended with Astana recording a 69:55 win. Astana stormed into this one claiming a 40:20 halftime lead. Taraz came back to life winning the second half but they never seriously threatened the margin. Maria Malynovska (188-F-83) scored 14 points and collected 7 rebounds for Astana. Irina Romanova (185-G/F-88) contributed 10 points in the victory. Zarina Ibraimova (175-G-88) answered with 13 points for Taraz.
The next game turned into a one-way traffic as Astana dominated from start to finish. Viktoriya Pazyuk (186-F-85) and Maria Malynovska came up with 15 points each to lead the Tigers to a 109:51 success. Astana thus climbed at 16-3 record on top of the ladder. Taraz suffered the 17th straight defeat despite 11 points from Y Kolesnikova.


Standings - Women
D1 Standings
 1. Astana Tigers 16-3 
 2. Irtysh 13-3 
 3. Okzhetpes 9-9 
 4. BK Almaty 5-11 
 5. Taraz 0-17 


*****************************************************
  LATVIA - Women  


Latvian LSBL round 17 best performance: Karline Nimane - by Eurobasket News
Forward Karline Nimane (188-F-90) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked TTT Riga, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.
The 20-year old player had a double-double of 22 points and 14 rebounds, while her team outclassed Daugavpils (#6, 5-15) with 63-point margin 94-31. It allowed TTT Riga to consolidate first place in the Latvian LSBL. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. It's already very far into the season and TTT Riga keeps perfect 20 -0 record. Nimane turned to be TTT Riga's top player in her first season with the team. Karline Nimane averages this season 12.4ppg and 7.7rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was young Guna Lagzdina (182-C-93) of TTT Riga - Juniores. Lagzdina had a very good evening with a double-double of 21 points and 19 rebounds. Of course TTT Juniores cruised to a 69-59 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked LU (#2, 15-4). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. TTT Juniores consolidated its place in top 4 of the standings. Her team's 11-7 record is not bad at all. Lagzdina is one of the most experienced players at TTT Juniores and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was another TTT Riga - Juniores' star - center Liga Surkusa (192-C-91). Surkusa scored 22 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). She was another key player of TTT Juniores, helping her team with a 69-59 win against #2 ranked LU. TTT Juniores needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 11 victories and 7 lost games. Surkusa has a great season in Latvia. After 16 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.3ppg (8th best) and rebounds with 12.0rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Dita Krumberga (183-F-84) of TTT Riga - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Dita Krumberga (183-F-84) of TTT Riga - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Karline Nimane (188-F-90) of TTT Riga - 20 points and 7 rebounds
7. Ieva Veinberga (180-F-84) of TTT Riga - 18 points and 5 rebounds
8. Anda Eibele (170-G-84) of TTT Riga - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Daina Lazdeniece (187-C-89) of RTU-Merks - 16 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists

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

*****************************************************
  NCAA2 - Women  


Clayton State stay on top of Division II rankings - by Eurobasket News
Clayton State stays on top of National Division II rankings. The Lakers enjoy an impressive record of 25 victories in a row. They stay at perfect 25-0 record. Lately Clayton State drove past Columbus State 64:54. The Lakers got to a strong start as they piled up a 30:12 lead midway through the first half. But Columbus State got as close as 11 points at halftime 24:35. Columbus State narrowed the deficit at just six points in the second half but the Lakers reacted with a deadly 15:0 run and rolled to the victory at the end. Teshymia Tillman (5'9''-F/G-86) came up with 22 points and 8 rebounds for Clayton State. Tanisha Woodard (5'10''-G/F-90) contributed 9 points and 10 rebounds in the victory. Columbus State answered with 15 points from Chatil Bradford.
The second-ranked Lander University recorded their 24th win. They held off Francis Marion 78:65 to climb at 24-1 record. Shannon McKever (6'0''-C) stepped up with 21 points and 15 rebounds to pace the Senators. Jasmine Judge (5'6''-G) added 18 points in the winning effort. The Lady Bearcats enjoyed a narrow 35:33 lead at halftime. Jasmine Judge helped the Lady Bearcats to surge in front early in the second half. Lander grabbed a 60:46 lead and never looked back en route to the victory. Mukia Myrick (5'5''-G) accounted for 14 points. Shannon Singleton-Bates (5'10''-G) answered with 16 points for the Patriots.


*****************************************************
  NCAA3 - Women  


Mount Union claim OAC regular season title - by Eurobasket News
Mount Union clinched the OAC regular season title. They toppled Baldwin-Wallace for the trophy 67:60. Lauren Forquer (5'10''-C) scored career-high 21 points to pace the Purple Raiders. Baldwin-Wallace led 35:29 midway through the encounter but could not capitalize. Mount Union went on a 7:0 run to surge ahead. The Purple Raiders gained a 56:44 lead minutes later and hung on to win this one. Amanda Rose nailed 11 points, while Katie Crider (5'5''-G) and Rosa LaMattina (5'6''-G) provided 8 points each in the victory. Amanda Schroeder answered with 10 points and 7 rebounds for Baldwin-Wallace.
In the meantime the top-ranked Thomas More recorded a 74:49 victory over Thiel College. The victory meant the Saints celebrated the PAC regular season title. Chelsea Tolliver (5'6''-G-91) provided 13 points for the Saints. Nicole Dickman (6'0''-C-88) added 12 points in the victory.
The fifth-ranked Babson overcame Clark 79:48. Kathleen King (6'0''-F) erupted for 36 points and 15 boards to lead the effort. Nicole Wurdeman (6'1''-F/C) added 28 points in the winning case. Clark University answered with 17 points from Lily Colley. Babson are now at 24-0 record, while Clark University slipped at 9-15.


*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA - Women  


Ana Turcinovic gets MVP of the Week award for Slovenian SKL - by Eurobasket News
Talented Montenegrin Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader ZKK Merkur Celje and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 19.
The 17-year old center had a double-double of 28 points and thirteen rebounds, while her team outclassed Kozmetika Afr. (#10, 2-16) with 65-point margin 119-54. It allowed Merkur Celje to consolidate first place in the Slovenian SKL. Merkur Celje has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 18-2. It's Turcinovic's second year at Merkur Celje and it's hard to imagine this team without her. Turcinovic has impressive league stats. She is in league's top in points (3rd best: 18.0ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 11.9rpg) and averages solid 2.6spg and 59.9% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 22-year old former international forward Martina Osterman (188-F-88) of second-ranked Hit Kranjska Gora. Osterman impressed basketball fans with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Of course she lead Hit K.Gora to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Odeja KED (#9, 5-12) 85-39. Hit K.Gora's second position in the standings has not changed. She plays for the best team in the league and Hit K.Gora managed to win all 16 games keeping perfect record. Osterman is well-known by Hit K.Gora fans and she already established her position as one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was another Hit Kranjska Gora's star - international guard Teja Oblak (172-G-90). Oblak scored 16 points. She was another key player of Hit K.Gora, helping her team with a 85-39 easy win against the lower-ranked Odeja KED (#9, 5-12). Hit K.Gora have amazing season winning all 16 games without a single defeat. Oblak turns to be one of the very best players in the league while he is also a leader of the top team having his eyes on the championship title. Oblak has a great season in Slovenia. After 15 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.0ppg (best scorer) and assists with 3.5apg (5th best). She also has 2.8spg, FGP: 56.3% and 3PT: 46.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Nika Baric (169-G-92) of Merkur Celje - 15 points, 3 rebounds and 9 assists
5. Sandra Jevtovic (187-F-93) of Merkur Celje - 14 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Anja Klavzar (177-F-90) of Merkur Celje - 13 points and 6 rebounds
7. Lea Jagodic (182-F-91) of Merkur Celje - 15 points
8. Maaike Klein (177-G-90) of Merkur Celje - 14 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Jasmina Hatic (176-F-89) of Jezica - 17 points
10. Tjasa Muhovic (188-C-91) of Kozmetika Afr. - 12 points and 5 rebounds

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

Standings - Women
SKL Standings
 1. Merkur Celje 18-2 
 2. Hit K.Gora 16-0 
 3. AJM Maribor 12-5 
 4. Ilrija 10-5 
 5. Triglav 9-7 
 6. Jezica 9-8 
 7. GVT Konjice 6-10 
 8. Grosuplje 6-12 
 9. Odeja KED 5-12 
 10. Kozmetika Afr. 2-16 
 11. Domzale 0-16 


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Teja OBLAK
  Hit K.Gora
  (172-G-90)
  Avg: 21
 1. Oblak, Hit K.Gora21.0 
 2. Kure, AJM Maribor19.2 
 3. Turcinovic, Merkur C.18.0 
 4. Komplet, Hit K.18.0 
 5. Mikic, Grosuplje17.4 
 6. Baric, Merkur C.16.8 
 7. Baltic, AJM M.14.7 
 8. Dover, AJM Maribor14.3 
 9. Oblak, Odeja KED14.3 
 10. Skof, Ilrija14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ajda GABROVSEK
  Odeja KED
  (188-C-84)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Gabrovsek, Odeja K.12.6 
 2. Turcinovic, Merkur C.11.9 
 3. Skof, Ilrija9.6 
 4. Macura, Jezica8.5 
 5. Ljubenovic, Triglav8.0 
 6. Klancnik, GVT K.7.7 
 7. Zdolsek, Triglav7.7 
 8. Vene, Ilrija7.6 
 9. Baltic, AJM M.7.6 
 10. Furman, AJM M.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Nika BARIC
  Merkur Celje
  (169-G-92)
  Avg: 6
 1. Baric, Merkur C.6.0 
 2. Oberc, Ilrija4.4 
 3. Panic, Hit K.Gora4.3 
 4. Jurse, Kozmetik.4.1 
 5. Oblak, Hit K.Gora3.5 
 6. Kolman, Grosuplje3.2 
 7. Duric, Triglav3.1 
 8. Baltic, AJM M.3.0 
 9. Abramovic, Merkur C.2.8 
 10. Zdolsek, Triglav2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Klavdija OBLAK
  Odeja KED
  (170-G-88)
  Avg: 4
 1. Oblak, Odeja KED4.0 
 2. Abramovic, Merkur C.3.1 
 3. Gabrovsek, Jezica2.9 
 4. Oblak, Hit K.Gora2.8 
 5. Zalar, Ilrija2.6 
 6. Turcinovic, Merkur C.2.6 
 7. Oberc, Ilrija2.6 
 8. Dover, AJM Maribor2.5 
 9. Zupancic, Grosuplje2.5 
 10. Bosilj, Merkur Celje2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Ajda GABROVSEK
  Odeja KED
  (188-C-84)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Gabrovsek, Odeja K.1.2 
 2. Pavli, Jezica0.8 
 3. Klancnik, GVT K.0.7 
 4. Baltic, AJM M.0.7 
 5. Srot, GVT Konjice0.6 
 6. Gjerkes, Grosuplje0.5 
 7. Furman, AJM M.0.5 
 8. Zdovc, GVT Konjice0.4 
 9. Macura, Jezica0.4 
 10. Vene, Ilrija0.4 


*****************************************************
  SWEDEN - Women  


Stats Leaders - Damligan
Points Per Game
 Pamela ROSANIO
  Umea
  (178-G/F-86)
  Avg: 26
 1. Rosanio, Umea26.0 
 2. Smart, Kvarnby24.5 
 3. Saunders, Visby22.4 
 4. Key, Marbo Basket20.0 
 5. Abdi, 0818.5 
 6. Ferm, Eos18.0 
 7. Zahui, Telge17.3 
 8. Glaser, Kvarnby17.0 
 9. Frieson, Kvarnby15.4 
 10. Andersson, Solna V.14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Amanda ZAHUI
  Telge
  (191-C-93)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Zahui, Telge10.7 
 2. Tattersdill, Sallen10.0 
 3. Frieson, Kvarnby9.8 
 4. Brown, Visby8.8 
 5. Scott, Lulea BBK8.8 
 6. Forsman-Goga, Tel.8.6 
 7. Smart, Kvarnby8.4 
 8. Bacon, Solna Vikings8.3 
 9. Gustavsson, Brahe8.1 
 10. Rosanio, Umea7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Leah METCALF
  Telge
  (173-G-83)
  Avg: 4.6
 1. Metcalf, Telge4.6 
 2. Smart, Kvarnby4.1 
 3. Johansen, Sallen4.1 
 4. Kabengano, Telge3.8 
 5. Kucukkaya, Telge3.8 
 6. Saunders, Visby3.6 
 7. Rivero, Kvarnby3.4 
 8. Persson, Brahe3.2 
 9. Key, Marbo Basket3.1 
 10. Gultekin, Solna V.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Anette JOHANSEN
  08
  (176-F-82)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Johansen, Sallen4.3 
 2. Metcalf, Telge3.3 
 3. Brooks, Solna Vikings3.3 
 4. Key, Marbo Basket2.9 
 5. Abdi, 082.5 
 6. Otamiri, Eos2.5 
 7. Nekmouche, Sallen2.4 
 8. Rivero, Kvarnby2.4 
 9. Ausmann, Eos2.2 
 10. Forsman-Goga, Tel.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Katarina ANDERSSON
  Solna Vikings
  (191-C-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Andersson, Solna V.2.1 
 2. Cesnaviciute, Visby1.8 
 3. Zahui, Telge1.7 
 4. Frieson, Kvarnby1.5 
 5. Stjarnstroem, Norrko.0.9 
 6. Smart, Kvarnby0.9 
 7. Lidgren, 080.7 
 8. Forsman-Goga, Tel.0.7 
 9. Scott, Lulea BBK0.7 
 10. Glaser, Kvarnby0.7 


Standings - Damligan
Damligan Standings
 1. Lulea BBK 20-2 
 2. Solna Vikings 17-5 
 3. Telge 16-5 
 4. Norrkoping 13-8 
 5. Visby 13-8 
 6. Marbo Basket 12-9 
 7. 08 11-11 
 8. Kvarnby 8-13 
 9. Sallen 8-13 
 10. Eos 6-15 
 11. Umea 3-19 
 12. Brahe 1-20 


*****************************************************
  TURKEY - Women  


Standings - TBBL
TKBL Standings
 1. Fenerbahce 17-2 
 2. Galatasaray 16-2 
 3. Tarsus Bld 12-6 
 4. TED Kayseri 12-6 
 5. Besiktas 11-7 
 6. Botas 11-7 
 7. Mersin 8-11 
 8. Samsun 7-11 
 9. Istanbul Univ. 5-13 
 10. Ceyhan Bld 5-13 
 11. Burhaniye Bld 3-15 
 12. Alanya BLD 2-16 


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Jolene ANDERSON
  Botas
  (173-G-86)
  Avg: 23.5
 1. Anderson, Botas23.5 
 2. Taylor, Fenerbahce18.7 
 3. Pierson, Tarsus Bld18.6 
 4. Castro Marqu., Besik.18.3 
 5. Frazee, Botas17.7 
 6. Smith, Alanya BLD17.5 
 7. Sales, Besiktas17.2 
 8. McBride, Ceyhan B.16.9 
 9. Ajavon, Istanbul.16.8 
 10. Fowles, Galatasa.16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aisha MOHAMMED
  Ceyhan Bld
  (191-C-85)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Mohammed, Ceyhan B.11.3 
 2. Thomas, Burhaniy.10.9 
 3. Paris, Istanbul Univ.10.7 
 4. Larkins, Mersin10.5 
 5. Adair, Samsun10.4 
 6. Fowles, Galatasa.8.7 
 7. Pierson, Tarsus Bld8.2 
 8. Terry, Alanya BLD8.0 
 9. Hornbuckle, Tarsus B.8.0 
 10. Anderson, Botas7.9 
Assists Per Game
 Julie MCBRIDE
  Ceyhan Bld
  (165-G-82)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. McBride, Ceyhan B.5.8 
 2. Hardy, Burhaniy.4.6 
 3. Ajavon, Istanbul.4.2 
 4. Boz, Samsun4.2 
 5. Taurasi, Fenerbahce4.1 
 6. Alben, Galatasaray3.8 
 7. Vardarli, Fener.3.7 
 8. Kartaltepe Y., Besik.3.6 
 9. Canty, Tarsus Bld3.4 
 10. Johnson, TED K.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 La Tanya WHITE
  Burhaniye Bld
  (170-G-82)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. White, Burhaniye Bld2.8 
 2. Smith, Alanya BLD2.6 
 3. Jackson, Alanya BLD2.4 
 4. Hardy, Burhaniy.2.3 
 5. Anderson, Botas2.3 
 6. McCoughtry, Fener.2.3 
 7. Ajavon, Istanbul.2.3 
 8. Alben, Galatasaray2.2 
 9. Currie, Galatasaray2.2 
 10. Larkins, Mersin2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 LaToya PRINGLE
  TED Kayseri
  (191-F/C-86)
  Avg: 2
 1. Pringle, TED K.2.0 
 2. Ayim, Alanya BLD1.5 
 3. Fowles, Galatasa.1.5 
 4. Mokango, Mersin1.4 
 5. Pierson, Tarsus Bld1.1 
 6. Kraayeveld, Tarsus B.1.1 
 7. Adair, Samsun1.1 
 8. Gezer, Istanbul.1.0 
 9. Paris, Istanbul Univ.0.8 
 10. Engin, Mersin0.7 


Diana Taurasi cleared of doping charge, Turkey lifts provisional ban - by Eurobasket News
The Turkish basketball federation says it has lifted a provisional doping suspension on American player Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) after a lab retracted a report that she tested positive for performance-enhancing substances.

The basketball federation says Taurasi is free to continue playing in the Turkish league.

The former UConn star has maintained her innocence ever since testing positive for modafinil in December. She said in an interview with The Associated Press last month that 'there's no way I've ever taken anything. ... Only thing that I'm guilty of is taking too many jump shots.'

Taurasi intends to return to the WNBA when the season begins in June. The Phoenix guard has led the league in scoring the last four seasons and signed a multiyear extension last August.

Courtesy of www.azfamily.com

McCoughtry's double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
24-year old forward Angel McCoughtry (185-F-86) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Fenerbahce and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
She had a double-double of 17 points and 13 rebounds, while her team outclassed Alanya BLD (#12, 2-16) with 64-point margin 128-64. Fenerbahce maintains the 2nd position in Turkish TKBL. They are still close to the very top. Fenerbahce would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 16-2 record. McCoughtry just recently signed at Fenerbahce, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Angel McCoughtry averages this season 12.7ppg and 7.0rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Sylvia Fowles (198-C-85) of top-ranked Galatasaray Istanbul. She is American center in her first season at Galatasaray. In the last game Fowles recorded impressive 22 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. Bad luck as Galatasaray lost that game 62-68 to slightly lower-ranked Tarsus Bld (#3, 12-6). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Galatasaray still maintains its place as the top team in the standings, even despite this loss. It was just her team's 2nd loss this season, while they won 16 other games. Fowles is a newcomer at Galatasaray and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to center Nevin Nevlin (195-C-85) of league's second-best Fenerbahce Istanbul. Nevlin scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds. She was a key player of Fenerbahce, leading her team to a 128-64 easy win against the lower-ranked Alanya BLD (#12, 2-16). Fenerbahce is closer and closer to the top of the standings. They will still need more victories. But 16-2 record is not that bad... Nevlin has a very solid season. In 16 games in Turkey she scored 7.7ppg. Nevin Nevlin has also Turkish passport and can play in the league with a status of domestic player.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Iveta Salkauske (196-F/C-82) of Besiktas - 20 points and 14 rebounds
5. Erlana Larkins (185-F-86) of Mersin - 8 points, 15 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Jolene Anderson (173-G-86) of Botas - 26 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Jessica Adair (193-C-86) of Samsun - 15 points and 14 rebounds
8. Chanelle Mokango (196-F-88) of Mersin - 15 points and 13 rebounds
9. Saziye Ivegin (182-F-82) of Fenerbahce - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Birsel Vardarli (175-G-80) of Fenerbahce - 12 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists

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

*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Lynx add six-time All-Star McWilliams-Franklin - by Eurobasket News
The Lynx signed six-time All-Star Tay McWilliams-Franklin (6'3''-F/C-70, college: St.Edward's) on Friday. Terms were not disclosed.

The 6-2 forward has played for five teams.

'Taj has proven herself to be one of the more durable players to play in the WNBA over the course of her 12 seasons in the league,' Lynx executive vice president Roger Griffith said in a release. 'She will provide a physical inside presence, veteran leadership and a tough defensive mindset to our team.'

McWilliams-Franklin is second in NBA history in rebounds, seventh in field goals, seventh in steals, seventh in blocked shots and 12th in scoring. She has played in 47 playoff games and been to the WNBA Finals three times. She won a league title with Detroit in 2008, when Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was an assistant for the Shock.

'The signing of Tay McWilliams-Franklin is a special one for the Lynx,' said Reeve. 'Taj has been one of the most versatile post players the WNBA has seen. She takes great pride in her defense, sets great screens, makes clutch shots and most importantly, she's a great leader. I think the world of Taj as she is the ultimate professional.'

McWilliams-Franklin began her professional career in 1996 when she was drafted by the Philadelphia Rage of the American Basketball League (ABL) and competed for three seasons.

The Lynx have the No. 1 and No. 4 picks in the 2011 WNBA draft. Connecticut All-America Maya Moore is the likely No. 1 pick.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Diana Taurasi cleared of doping charge, Turkey lifts provisional ban - by Eurobasket News
The Turkish basketball federation says it has lifted a provisional doping suspension on American player Diana Taurasi (6'0''-F/G-82, college: Connecticut) after a lab retracted a report that she tested positive for performance-enhancing substances.

The basketball federation says Taurasi is free to continue playing in the Turkish league.

The former UConn star has maintained her innocence ever since testing positive for modafinil in December. She said in an interview with The Associated Press last month that 'there's no way I've ever taken anything. ... Only thing that I'm guilty of is taking too many jump shots.'

Taurasi intends to return to the WNBA when the season begins in June. The Phoenix guard has led the league in scoring the last four seasons and signed a multiyear extension last August.

Courtesy of www.azfamily.com