EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 2/2/2011

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Men News

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


Texas Fuel big win against Texas Fresh - by Bruno Baltazar
TEXAS FUEL DEFEATS NORTH TEXAS FRESH 144-120.
LEAD BY Kris Collins (6'2''-G-83, college: N.Mexico) WITH 31 POINTS AND 11 ASSISTS AND LEONARD BROWN ALSO WITH 31 POINTS AND 10 ASSISTS.
MAURISCE STEEN HAD 24 POINTS AND 8 AST ON HIS FIRST GAME BACK SECOND WITH THE FUEL AND ALSO OUR BIGS CONTROL THE PAINT LEAD BY BEN CONWELL WITH A TRIPLE DOUBLE WITH 18 PONITS,14 REBOUNDS AND 10 BLOCKS AND ALSO JASON MCNEIL WITH 16 POINTS AND 12 REBOUNDS.
FUEL NEXT GAME IS THIS THURSDAY AGAINST THE HAITI NATIONAL TEAM AT HOME AT 6:30.WHICH WE WILL HAVE OUR ALLSTARS LAMAR WRIGHT AND KEITH SIMPSON AND ALSO OUR SHARP SHOOTER MIKE GALE BACK TO THE ROSTER,WHICH THEY LEFT THE TEAM TO MEXICO FOR THE WEEKEND FOR A TOURNEY.THE FUEL OTHER ALLSTAR KENNY WILSON AND ALSO SMALL FORWARD JOSEPH WORKS WILL RETURN LATE FEBUARY ON LEAVING TO GO PLAY IN AFRICA.



SETX Mavericks hold grip on #1 spot in ABA Power Rankings - by Gianni Pascucci
With an 18-1 record, the Southeast Texas Mavericks held their grip on the number one ranking for the 12th straight week but are being pressed by undefeatede Jacksonville Giants (14-0), East Kentucky Energy (13-0), Colorado Kings (13-0), Seven Cities Knights (12-0). 'There's no doubt that we have some great teams in the ABA,' stated Joe Newman , ABA CEO. 'Something has to give in the next couple of weeks as several of the undefeated teams will be playing one another. And the playoffs should really have a strong field this year.'
The rankings:

1. SETX Mavericks (18-1)
2. Jacksonville Giants (14-0)
3. East Kentucky Energy (12-0)
4. 7-City Knights (12-0)
5. Colorado Kings (13-0)
6. Seattle Mountaineers (11-1)
7. Las Vegas Aces (8-0)
8. Columbus Riverballers (11-3)
9. Savannah Storm (10-3)
10. East Bay Pitbulls (11-4)
11. Chicago Steam (10-3)
12. Texas Fuel (12-4)
13. San Diego Sol (9-3)
14. Oklahoma Stallions (8-3)
15. Bay Area Matrix (9-5)
16. North Dallas Vandals (10-6)
17. Sacramento Heatwave (8-4)
18. West Texas Whirlwind (8-5)
19. Lake Michigan Admirals (7-3)
20. California Seakings (8-5)
21. Columbus Diesels (5-3)
22. Gulf Coast Flash (5-4)
23. Los Angeles Slam (6-6)
24. Modesto Hawks (7-7)

For more information, visit www.abalive.com

Standings
ABA Standings
 1. Colorado Kings 13-0 
 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. 18-1 
 2. Gulf Coast F. 5-4 
 3. Mobile Bay H. 4-2 
 4. Louisiana U. 1-4 
 5. Cypress 0-0 
 6. Houston R.S. 0-5 
Mid-Atlantic
 1. Seven Cities 11-0 
 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 11-4 
 2. Bay Area M. 9-5 
 3. Sacramento H. 8-4 
 4. California SK 8-5 
 5. Modesto H. 7-7 
 6. S.Francisco R. 5-3 
 7. Clayton 0-0 
North Central
 1. Chicago Steam 10-3 
 2. Lake Michigan 7-3 
 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. Las Vegas A. 9-0 
 2. San Diego Sol 9-3 
 3. San Diego S. 8-5 
 4. LA Slam 6-6 
 5. Compton C. 0-0 
 6. Mid-Valley 0-0 
 7. S.Valley Fever 0-0 
 8. Riverside R. 0-1 
 9. SoCal Swish 0-3 
South Central
 1. E.Kentucky En. 12-0 
 2. Columbus Diesel 5-3 
 3. St. Louis 2-1 
 4. Kentucky B. 0-0 
 5. Kentucky C. 0-0 
 6. W.Virginia B. 0-0 
Southeast
 1. Jacksonville 14-0 
 2. Savannah Storm 10-3 
 3. Columbus Life 4-0 
 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 12-4 
 2. North Dallas 10-6 
 3. Oklahoma 8-3 
 4. West Texas W. 8-5 
 5. N.Texas F. 1-4 
 6. Dallas Impact 0-0 


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


Radnicki Kragujevac brings back Vukasin Aleksic - by Zoran Popovic
After half of the season in Russian team BC Nizhny Novgorod Vukasin Aleksic (182-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) came back to Radnicki Kragujevac. On 8 games played in EuroChallenge cup Aleksic average scored 8.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists, on 9 games in Russian league 5.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists. Aleksic started professional career in Hemofarm Vrsac, played for KK Swisslions Takovo Lions Vrsac, Avala Ada, Zdravlje Leskovac, Partizan Beograd and Radnicki Kragujevac. Aleksic was member of Yugoslavian, Serbia and Montenegro U16, U18 National team and Serbian University National team.

*****************************************************
  ASEAN LEAGUE   


INTERVIEW WITH CHRIS GARNETT BRUNEI's PLAYER OF THE WEEK for WEEK 15! - by Ozell Wells
EUROBASKET HAD THE CHANCE TO SIT AND TALK WITH WEEK 15 PLAYER OF THE WEEK, Christopher Garnett (211-C-80, college: Indiana SE), TO GET HIS THOUGHTS ON THIS, THE SECOND SEASON OF THE ABL & ALSO HIS THOUGHTS ON THE FUTURE.

EU: Chris, thank you for sitting down with us. How have you found this past season in SouthEast Asia? It was not too long ago that you left your mark on this part of the world playing in South Korea with the KBL sides SK Knights & the KTF Magic Wings. How has this return to this region been to you?

CHRIS: THE SEASON WAS A BIT SHORTER THAN MOST, BUT OVERALL, IT WAS A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE. THE CULTURE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA IS VERY FAMILY ORIENTED AND MAKES FOR A REALLY FULFILLING BASKETBALL EXPERIENCE--RETURNING TO ASIA WAS FUN. I REALLY LOVE PLAYING ALL THROUGHOUT ASIA, AND I WAS ABLE TO JUMP BACK INTO MY STATISTICAL PROWESS PRETTY QUICKLY AND EASILY.

EU: With SK Knights & KTF, you were annually selected for post season award, signing a contract to play in the Asian Championships in '09, and also going deep into the playoffs in years past, all based o your on-court exploits. What differed this season for you?

CHRIS: WELL, THIS WAS ONE OF THE FEW TIMES WHERE WINNING DIDN'T COME SO EASY, LOL.....ALSO, THERE WERE A LOT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TALENT, BASKETBALL IQ, AND ATHLETICISM ON THE COURT AT THE SAME TIME, AND THAT WAS QUITE AN ADJUSTMENT.

EU: Please detail for us, why u decided to bring your talents to Brunei after such storied successes throughout the globe?

CHRIS: IN A NUT SHELL: I'VE ALWAYS WANTED TO PLAY FOR FIBA EXPERT COACH, Ozell Wells . OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, OUR SCHEDULES NEVER ALLOWED THE OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO WORK TOGETHER UNTIL NOW. SO, I JUMPED AT THE DOOR OF OPPORTUNITY. HE HAS HELPED MY CAREER SO MUCH, AND I HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH FROM HIM ON AND OFF THE COURT THROUGH HIS COACHING, TEACHING, AND GUIDANCE. IT WAS A NO-BRAINER.

EU: How have u found the level of play here in the ASEAN League comparatively? You have played all over the world and excelled everywhere that you have gone. How does the ABL?

CHRIS: OBVIOUSLY, IT'S NOT ON THE LEVEL OF EUROPE OR KOREA, BUT THE LEAGUE IS QUITE NEW AND WILL GET BETTER OVER TIME. HOWEVER, WHAT''S GOOD TO KNOW IS YOU'RE GOING TOE TO TOE WITH ANOTHER AMERICAN WHO IS JUST AS GOOD OR BETTER THAN YOU ARE. THIS PAST SEASON, I HAVE SEEN AND PLAYED AGAINST AMERICAN IMPORTS THAT ARE HEAD AND SHOULDERS BETTER THAN SOME THAT I'VE PLAYED AGAINST IN EUROPE. SO, THERE ARE NO EASY STATS, EASY VICTORIES, OR GUARANTEES.

EU: The season has concluded for the Barracudas, having missed out on the quarterfinals by 3 games. How close do u feel the team was to reaching the playoffs? What if any predictions do u have on the ABL playoffs, as you did face each team and received a very good view of what can do what?

CHRIS: I FEEL THAT WE PLAYED TOUGH GAMES, TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION THAT THE GAMES WE LOST WERE IN OVERTIME, BY 7 OR LESS POINTS. ALSO, ILLNESSES KEPT THE MAJORITY OF OUR TEAM FROM BEING ALLOWED TO PLAY IN AN EASY, WINNABLE GAME. BEING THE ONLY TEAM IN THE LEAGUE TO PLAY ONLY 5 PLAYERS (NO SUBSTITUTES AVAILABLE), WE WERE AT A DISADVANTAGE THE MOMENT FOULS WERE CALLED AGAINST OUR TEAM. I THINK THE PLAYOFFS WILL BE VERY INTERESTING. YOU HAVE SOME REAL GAME CHANGERS IN Avenido Leonidez (186-G), Nakiea Miller (205-C-79, college: Iona), Gabe Pruitt (193-G-86, college: USC), AND Jason Dixon (205-C-73, college: Liberty). SO IF THE GAMES ARE CLOSE, GET YOUR POPCORN READY. MY PREDICTION IS SINGAPORE WILL TOP THE ABL THIS SEASON.

EU: What can we expect from you now that the mid-season transfer period is kicking into high gear?

CHRIS: I'VE RECEIVED OFFERS FROM NUMEROUS COUNTRIES SUCH IN EUROPE & IN DUBAI, MEXICO, JAPAN, CHINA, AND OTHERS. I'M STILL UNDECIDED ABOUT THE COUNTRY OF MY TRANSITION RIGHT NOW. I'M GOING TO PONDER A LITTLE LONGER ON THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO ME.

EU: How has the adjustment been for you, now that you are a seasoned veteran player? Detail the changes that you have had to make from your first years as a European player? What if any are the differences between European Basketball (Bulgaria/Turkey/Romania) and ball here in the Asian Zone (Korea, Brunei, Mid East countries)?

CHRIS: ADJUSTMENTS ARE MOSTLY MENTAL. DURING MY ROOKIE YEAR IN THE FIBA EUROLEAGUE, I PLAYED WITH A LOT OF EMOTION. OVER THE YEARS, I BEGAN PLAYING THE GAME FROM A MENTAL STANDPOINT. IF YOU CAN CONQUER THE GAME MENTALLY, THE PHYSICAL ASPECT CAN BE A BREATHER. I RECOMMEND THAT ALL ATHLETES AND COACHES READ THE BOOK CALLED 'MIND GYM' BY GARY MACK & DAVID CASSTEVENS. IT DELVES INTO THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MIND GAME. SOME DIFFERENCES IN EUROPEAN AND ASIAN STYLE BASKETBALL ARE THE SPEED OF THE GAME AND SOME OF THE RULES. KOREA, CHINA, AND JAPAN ARE VERY FAST, UP-TEMPO LEAGUES; LOTS OF 3-POINTERS; KOREA AND CHINA USE NBA RULES. EUROPE CAN BE A BIT SLOWER THAN ASIA AS FAR AS TEMPO, BUT THE TALENT LEVEL IN EUROPE IS SECOND TO NONE. I THINK THAT EUROPE IS HANDS DOWN THE BEST TALENT OUTSIDE OF THE NBA. ALSO, EUROPE USE FIBA RULES, AND IT'S A BIT OF A DIFFERENCE REGARDING THE 'NO 3-SECOND RULE' ON DEFENSE. SO, YOU RARELY GET ANY 1-ON-1 PLAY. VERY TACTICAL.

EU: What can we expect from you in the future? There is talk of a development program in the US, we have been told?

CHRIS: A LOT MORE BASKETBALL AND, HOPEFULLY, MORE ADDITIONS TO MY PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP COLLECTIONS.

EU: Are there any last words or thoughts to your many fans both in Europe, Asia and the US?

CHRIS: .I would like to give a BIG Thank You from the bottom of my heart to all of the fans around the world for their time, kindness, encouragement, and tremendous support. You, the fans, make my job much more enjoyable when I step out on that court, and I hear the excitement in your voices and read your enthusiastic signs which will forever plant memorable experiences of you deep into my heart and soul. You have said many wonderful things about me, and you are by far some of the greatest fans in the world, and it has been a great privilege indeed to entertain you from the sports arena. Im glad that I have this special opportunity to thank each and every one of you. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You

EU: Chris, thank you so much for taking the time to sit with us!

WE AT EUROBASKET ALSO WANT TO WISH CHRIS CONTINUED SUCCESS & PROSPERITY IN HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS, AS WE LOOK TO HEAR MANY MORE GREAT TINGS FROM HIM & ABOUT HIM IN THE SEASONS TO COME!

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


Oberwart Gunners add Marko Moric - by Stefan Prager
A few weeks after the Oberwart Gunners signed forward Tyrone Sally the club brought in another big man to strengthen the Gunners roster for the upcoming Cup Final Four in Graz. With Marko Moric (207-F-81) Oberwart signed a player who is more than familiar with the club. It's Moric' third stint with the team as he already played in Oberwart in 2005 and 2008. Moric was a member of the 2008 Gunners who fell to the Panthers in a dramatic 5 game series in the finals. Last year Moric played for the Klosterneuburg Dukes but his contract got terminated shorty before the season started.

Standings - A Bundesliga
A Bundesliga Stage Two Standings
Group A
 1. Gmunden 18-4 
 2. Arkadia 14-8 
 3. Furstenfeld 14-8 
 4. Oberwart 13-9 
 5. Kapfenberg 13-9 
 6. Klosterneub. 13-9 
Group B
 1. UBSC Graz 12-10 
 2. Wels 11-11 
 3. BC Vienna 9-13 
 4. Gussing 8-14 
 5. St.Polten 6-16 
 6. Worthersee 1-21 
Stage One Standings


Standings - 2.Bundesliga
2.Bundesliga Standings
East
 1. Mattersb.R. 13-0 
 2. Mistelbach 9-3 
 3. BC Vienna jrs 7-4 
 4. Harreither 7-5 
 5. Fighters 6-8 
 6. Danube City 5-6 
 7. Modling 5-7 
 8. UBBC Enns 3-9 
 9. ATSE Graz 0-13 
West
 1. Dornbirn 13-1 
 2. Schwaz 9-5 
 3. Klagenfurt 8-6 
 4. Salzburg 7-7 
 5. Feldkirch 5-10 
 6. SVO/BRG 0-13 


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


Manama in Cup finals - by Yousef Ahmed
MANAMA maintained their 100 per cent win record last night, defeating reigning champions Muharraq 87-82 in the main round of the Zain Bahrain Basketball Cup at Zain Basketball Arena in Um Al Hassam. An impressive all-round performance by American import Darius Rice inspired Manama to another comprehensive victory, which sealed their place in the best-of-three final.
Rice, who recently for his new club and replacing compatriot John Bailey, was again at peak form scoring 26 points. He scored 40 points in his debut game for Manama last week when they outplayed Sitra 99-71. Also contributing to Manama's victory were national team pair of Mahmood Ghuloom, Ahmed Abdulaziz (20 points each) who scored crucial points yesterday. Coached by new American coach Jason Rabedeaux, Manama also comprise a group of talents like and Ahmed Al Mutawa, Mohammed Hassan (8 each) Hassan Naorooz and Bader Abdulla (2 each).
With one match remaining for each side in this six-team round robin battle, Manama are on top with eight points from four games.
They are one point ahead of Al Ahli and two ahead of joint third-placers Al Hala and Muharraq.
With Manama securing their in the final, the battle for the second and last spot will be battled among Al Ahli, Al Hala and Muharraq.
It was the second straight defeat for Muharraq who stayed fourth with six points. They are behind third-placers Al Hala, also on six points, on points margin difference.
Muharraq, under their Argentinean coach Guillermo Vecchio, were heavily relying on former NBA veteran Lamond Murray who scored 26 points and made several useful assists.
Others spearheading Muharraq last night were Bahraini talents Mohammed Abdulmajeed (15 points), Jassim Mohammed (13), Ahmed Al Durazi (12) and Ali Abbas (8).
Vecchio was also banking on his experienced players Essa Ebrahim (3), Yasser Bunaffoor (1) and skipper Ahmed Al Doy. Muharraq had a good start to the game, taking a 28-20 lead in the first quarter before heading into half-time with a 45-42 advantage with Murray scoring 12 points while Mohammed managed nine points. But Manama, backed by thousands of supporters, roared back in the third quarter, which ended in their favour 70-61 thanks to vital points from Abdulaziz and Rice. There was no stopping Manama who maintained their momentum and never looked behind in the fourth and last quarter to secure a five-point victory.
Cup action continues on Sunday with the fifth and deciding week when Al Hala take on Sitra at 6.30pm.
The final day in the main round is set for the following day when Muharraq face off with Isa Town at 6.30pm, then Manama encounter Al Ahli at 7.45pm.
Meanwhile, the Bahrain Basketball Association's coaching course got underway yesterday at the Zain Basketball Arena.
The course, which concludes tomorrow, is open to beginners and experienced coaches.
Yesterday's opener featured a two-hour session, which was conducted by Dr Hussain Jaffer, who highlighted on ways of preparing youngsters physically before training.

Source GDN By Rami Hulayyel ,Posted on Friday, January 28, 2011


Ahli in Finals - by Yousef Ahmed
AL AHLI booked their berth in the finals of the Zain Bahrain Basketball Cup, following an 86-83 win over Manama last night at Zain Basketball Arena in Um Al Hassam. Manama had no answer for American import Marquis Theos who scored 43 points and guided Al Ahli to a thrilling victory while handling Manama their first-ever cup defeat of the season. Al Ahli, being coached by Kuwaiti Faisal Buressli , had great performances from Maytham Jameel, Mohammed Qurban, Hussain Shaker, and Hashim Habib.

Manama were relying on their American import Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami (FL)), who however, was unable to maintain his outstanding form during the team's previous two games against Sitra and Muharraq averaging +30 points and 14 rebounds. He was Manama's top scorer with 21 points but was dominated by Ahli's professional.

Manama, coached by Jason Rabedeaux (agency: Edge Sports ) of the US, were also banking on experienced local players like Mahmood Ghuloom, Ahmed Abdulaziz, Ahmed Al Mutawa (199-F/C-81, agency: Low Country Sports, college: Broward CC), Mohammed Hassan, Mohammed Najaf, Hassan Naorooz and Bader Abdulla. Having already secured their place in the finals, Manama headed into this game with confidence starting the game on a high note, taking the lead in the early stages of an action-packed encounter.
Al Ahli gradually came back and turned the scores around in the third quarter which ended in their favor 72-73 with Theos and Habib scoring from all over the court at will dominating Manama's defense.

The fourth and deciding quarter saw Manama cut Al Ahli's lead to one point thanks to Bahraini star Ahmed Al Mutawa who single handed brought back Manama scoring 8 consecutive points. ALmutawa had 19 points and 12 rebounds shooting 3 for 3 from beyond the arc.
Excitement mounted later on and with less than three minutes remaining in the game and both teams tied up, Al Manama had 1 flagrant foul and a technical due to poor defense and Ahli took advantage of two free throws from Jameel and one from Habib. Al Ahli won and booked a slot in the finals.

These same teams will face again in the finals next week Ahli being the favorite and defending League champions, Manama might be facing some suspensions due to inappropriate behavior towards the referees at the end of regulation.





*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Standings - Men
Baltic League Standings
Challenge Cup
 1. Sakalai 0-0 
 2. Rakvere 0-0 
 3. Barsy Atyrau 0-0 
 4. Naglis-Adakris 0-0 
Elite Division
 1. VEF Riga 13-2 
 2. Ventspils 12-4 
 3. TU/Rock 11-5 
 4. Nevezis 10-5 
 5. Rudupis 10-7 
 6. Kalev/Cramo 9-6 
 7. Siauliai 9-8 
 8. Perlas 7-10 
 9. Norrkoping 6-9 
 10. Liepaja 5-10 
 11. TTU/Kalev 4-14 
 12. Valmiera 1-17 
Challenge Cup
 1. Aiscai Kaunas 5-2 
 2. Juventus 5-2 
 3. Techasas 4-3 
 4. Zemgale 3-4 
 5. Neptunas 3-4 
 6. Alytus Alita 1-6 


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


Standings - Division II
D2 Standings
 1. Kangar.-Boom 14-2 
 2. Sint-Jan Ant. 11-5 
 3. Pitzemburg 11-5 
 4. Excelsior 10-6 
 5. De Westhoek 10-6 
 6. Waregem 10-6 
 7. Essor Charleroi 9-7 
 8. Oostkamp 7-9 
 9. Gembo 6-10 
 10. Zolder 6-11 
 11. Fleurus 5-10 
 12. Carnieres 4-11 
 13. M.Hainaut II 4-11 
 14. Liege II 4-12 


Krka wins over the Giants in the defensive style - by Eurobasket News
Krka-Antwerp Giants 62:46

Krka wins over the Giants in the defensive style in Eurochallenge Last 16 Day 3. The Slovenian underdogs improved to 2-1 record after 62:46 win.
Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Canisius) opened the game for the guests and he also closed the period at 12:10. Another seven baskets in a row from the player brought 21;16 lead for his team midway through the second period. Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80) and Jure Balazic (204-F-80) meanwhile closed the second frame to taste 28:24 halftime advantage. Antwerp Giants could not score for about minutes in the game, while Novo Mesto went on a 24-0 run bridging the second and third quarters. Drobnjak made it 42:24 and only Roel Moors (190-G-78, agency: Agency No 10) broke the silence for the visitors. Djordjevic closed the period at 46:30 and after 16-16 in the last quarter Krka celebrated the necessary win. Smiljan Pavic made a jump shot to be the last player to score in the game.
Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Purdue) paced all the winners with 17 points and Smiljan Pavic nailed 11. Edo Muric (202-F-91) ended up with 10 points, while Jure Balazic scored 6. Darnell Wilson replied with 23 points in the losing effort, whilst Roel Moors notched 11.

Krka: Christopher Booker 17, Smiljan Pavic 11, Edo Muric 10, Jure Balazic 6
Antwerp Giants: Darnell Wilson 23, Roel Moors 11



BC Telenet Oostende remain perfect in Group L of EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
BC Zadar-BC Oostende 73:85

BC Telenet Oostende remain perfect in Group L of EuroChallenge after a road trip to Croatia. The Belgian Powerhouse overcame BC Zadar 85:73. The Belgian club improved to 3-0 in Last 16 Group L and dropped the Croatia hosts to 1-2.
Both teams nailed 20 points in the opening period as Brandon Brown (202-F-81, college: Tulane) closed 10 minutes in the court. The second quarter saw both teams continue to trade baskets throughout the period and the guests were able to maintain their lead as the sides headed into the locker rooms with the visitors leading 48:36 at the half. In the second half the visitors continued to demonstrate their dominance and after 19-14 had 67:50 after 30 minutes. Faison nailed three to open the last period and Caleb Green (203-F-85, college: ORU) scored for 74:51. Ivanov reduced to 75:55 and Marcinkovic made two free throws for 81:71 closing a 10-0 run. Mitchell and Will Thomas (200-F-86, agency: Interperformances) however scored the free throws for their team to win the game.
Caleb Green was responsible for 26 points and Darrel Mitchell (180-G-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: LSU) netted 23. Will Thomas followed them with 17 points to keep the perfect record. Brandon Brown finished the game with 19 points in defeat, Chester Mason (192-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: Miami (OH)) netted 11 and Miro Bilan (212-F-89) posted 10.

BC Zadar: Brandon Brown 19, Chester Mason 11, Miro Bilan 10
BC Oostende: Caleb Green 26, Darrel Mitchell 23, Will Thomas 17


Pinar Karsiyaka is on top of EuroChallenge Group J - by Eurobasket News
Pinar Karsiyaka-Dexia Mons-Hainaut 94:71

Pinar Karsiyaka is on top of EuroChallenge Group J after another victory in the tournament. This time the Turkish underdogs overcame Dexia Mons-Hainaut 94:71. The Turkish club improved to 3-0 in Group J and dropped Dexia to 1-2.
As the game started, the hosts showed that there were no adverse effects to the long journey as they leapt out to an early lead. Dexia Mons-Hainaut tried to pull themselves back into the game and traded baskets for the remainder of the opening period to trail 17:20. Erdogan and Batuk scored for 25:17 and Saruhan made it 31:23. Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) sent the teams to the lockers at 46:36 making three with a foul. In the third quarter the Turkish representative erupted with 31-15 and took 77:51 after three quarters.Bellin scored four points in a row for his team to cut it to 79:55, while Osiris Eldridge (191-G-88, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) made seven for the home side to give them 87:59. Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Xavier) was the last to score in the game for the final result.
Jovo Stanojevic (208-C-77, agency: Beo Basket) and Smith top-scored for the winners with 19 points each to remain perfect. David Holston (170-G-86, college: Chicago St.) followed them with 15 and Osiris Eldridge netted 14. Ben McCauley replied with 19 points in the losing effort, while Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) netted 14 and Justin Cage posted 11.

Pinar Karsiyaka: Jovo Stanojevic 19, Smith 19, David Holston 15, Osiris Eldridge 14
Dexia Mons-Hainaut: Ben McCauley 19, Ronell Taylor 14, Justin Cage 11


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


Nihad Djedovic continues to impress in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Nihad Djedovic (196-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) continues with great performance in Italian SerieA. The Bosnian international scored 23 points and grabbed 7 steals last weekend helping his Lottomatica Roma to blast Scavolini Pesaro 85-53. Djedovic reached valuation 30 and was the MVP of this meeting. He appeared 17 times in SerieA this season averaging 13.7 points and 3.8 rebounds. Djedovic was also good in Euroleague, where he registered 9.4 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 2.1 apg.
Nihad Djedovic joined Lottomatica Roma last summer. Regal Barca loaned the Bosnian prospect. Djedovic played for Team Bosnia at the Qualifications to European Championships 2011. He shined with 12.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.2 spg for 10 games. He played for Bosnians also at the Qualifications to European Championships 2009. He is member of the Bosnian NT since 2007.

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  BOTSWANA   


G-west youth embrace basketball - by Thomas Fink
Frederick Kebadiretse
Staff Writer

Youth and residents of Gaborone West were on Saturday treated to a humdinger family fun day event by the Botswana Basketball Association (BBA) and Thomas and Thomas Junior (T-n-T Jr.) International Sports at the Mmamasire Youth Centre as they received honours for their dedication and hard work in a basketball life-skills camp they excelled in, in December last year.

A total of 14 youth out of the 89 who attended the holiday camp were awarded prizes for their efforts during the camp. According to founder and Executive Director of T-n-T Jr. Thomas Raglin, the aim of the holiday camp was to impart basketball and life skills to underprivileged children in G-West as a way of keeping them away from social ills and helping them make a living out of sport. The camp attracted youth aged between 8-31 years.

'It is not all about playing basketball. We also want to teach these kids survival skills in life and help them grow to become good, responsible citizens, all through the game of basketball,' Raglin said. He said they want more people to come on board and get involved, especially the parents as they were still lagging behind in supporting their children in the initiative.

T-n-T Jr. International Sports is a non-profit making organisation dedicated to serving the underprivileged youth and communities through sports, especially Basketball. Raglin started the organisation when he first came to Botswana in October last year. The December camp was the first camp to be staged locally and there are plans to spread the initiatives to other parts of the city and country in future. 'We want to spread this initiative.

In the next few weeks, we will be going to the Tsholofelo area and if we get enough resources, we want to make it a countrywide initiative,' said Mothusi Phokoje, another pioneer of the project. For continuity's sake on the initiative, there are regular training sessions conducted by players and officials from BBA at the National Youth Centre (NYC) courts every Friday, Saturdays and Sunday mornings.

The two added that they are still looking for sponsors to come on board as well because they can only survive and continue through donations from the business community. The US-born Raglin told Sport Monitor that he has some long-term goals to see basketball in Botswana turn professional. 'I have connections in the US and I want to see one of these [children] getting education on a full basketball scholarship there.

I know it is possible; in the long term I want to see at least one professional basketball team in the country,' he said. He said he was overly impressed with the outcome of the inaugural camp. Over 150 youth have been trained under the initiative since its inception four months back.

Raglin, who hails from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania has a Degree in Adolescent Psychology and has over 15 years of community service experience and 25 years of organised basketball experience. He has played college basketball and once played at semi-professional level. In Botswana, he is also coaching league champions Troopers and has been roped in to coach the University of Botswana (UB) basketball team for the Inter-varsity Games next month.

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  BRAZIL   


Vitoria sign young PG from rival - by Paulo Freire
The Vitoria Basketball team has just returned another athlete from Espirito Santo State, the point guard Johnnie Silva (186-G-91) who was playing on the basis categories of the Clube Central from Niteroi (RJ).

This season will not be the first NBB in the player career, the athlete played for rival Vila Velha CETAF on the last seasons. Johnnie is 1.86cm height and was born in 1991, Johnnie has to seek for his place on the team who already possess Muoz and Gutt in the point guard position, and Joao Gabriel, who also does the job some times.

Sao Caetano sign seven players from Barueri - by Paulo Freire
The Sao Caetano EC Basketball team, led by head coach Luiz Carlos Gianini hit the signing of seven players for the 2011 season, which begins with the dispute of the New Millennium Tournament, which is the Paulista State qualifier.

The team located on the Grande ABC os Sao Paulo brouth in almost all young prospects who defended the GR Barueri / G-Unit, they are the current Paulista State Champion U-19, as the City of Barueri decided not to keep the professional team this season, Sao Caetano took the opportunity to have a good young talent at their roster.

'It will be nice to continue the work the coach Julio Malfi and Marcel de Souza atart at Barueri, as these winner players deserve to stay together. We will fight in the New Millennium Tournament, and if we get the classification, disputed the Series A-1 of the Paulista State Championship.'explains coach Gianini.

For 2011 season, is comming from Barueri:

Willians da Silva (198-C-91)
Rafael Malfi (188-G-91)
LEONARDO SCETTA DIAS
IGOR GUIMARAES TRACCI
RONAN GONCALVES ELIAS
GABRIEL TARONI ALEO

The team managers will keep the negotiation with the players that played for Sao Caetano on 2010 and annouced later who will be still on the 2011 roster.




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


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  BRUNEI   


INTERVIEW WITH CHRIS GARNETT week 15 Player OF THE WEEK! - by Ozell Wells
EUROBASKET HAD THE CHANCE TO SIT AND TALK WITH WEEK 15 PLAYER OF THE WEEK, Christopher Garnett (211-C-80, college: Indiana SE), TO GET HIS THOUGHTS ON THIS, THE SECOND SEASON OF THE ABL & ALSO HIS THOUGHTS ON THE FUTURE.

EU: Chris, thank you for sitting down with us. How have you found this past season in SouthEast Asia? It was not too long ago that you left your mark on this part of the world playing in South Korea with the KBL sides SK Knights & the KTF Magic Wings. How has this return to this region been to you?

CHRIS: THE SEASON WAS A BIT SHORTER THAN MOST, BUT OVERALL, IT WAS A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE. THE CULTURE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA IS VERY FAMILY ORIENTED AND MAKES FOR A REALLY FULFILLING BASKETBALL EXPERIENCE--RETURNING TO ASIA WAS FUN. I REALLY LOVE PLAYING ALL THROUGHOUT ASIA, AND I WAS ABLE TO JUMP BACK INTO MY STATISTICAL PROWESS PRETTY QUICKLY AND EASILY.

EU: With SK Knights & KTF, you were annually selected for post season award, signing a contract to play in the Asian Championships in '09, and also going deep into the playoffs in years past, all based o your on-court exploits. What differed this season for you?

CHRIS: WELL, THIS WAS ONE OF THE FEW TIMES WHERE WINNING DIDN'T COME SO EASY, LOL.....ALSO, THERE WERE A LOT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TALENT, BASKETBALL IQ, AND ATHLETICISM ON THE COURT AT THE SAME TIME, AND THAT WAS QUITE AN ADJUSTMENT.

EU: Please detail for us, why u decided to bring your talents to Brunei after such storied successes throughout the globe?

CHRIS: IN A NUT SHELL: IVE ALWAYS WANTED TO PLAY FOR FIBA EXPERT COACH, Ozell Wells . OVER THE PAST FEW YEARS, OUR SCHEDULES NEVER ALLOWED THE OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO WORK TOGETHER UNTIL NOW. SO, I JUMPED AT THE DOOR OF OPPORTUNITY. HE HAS HELPED MY CAREER SO MUCH, AND I HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH FROM HIM ON AND OFF THE COURT THROUGH HIS COACHING, TEACHING, AND GUIDANCE. IT WAS A NO-BRAINER.

EU: How have u found the level of play here in the ASEAN League comparatively? You have played all over the world and excelled everywhere that you have gone. How does the ABL?

CHRIS: OBVIOUSLY, IT'S NOT ON THE LEVEL OF EUROPE OR KOREA, BUT THE LEAGUE IS QUITE NEW AND WILL GET BETTER OVER TIME. HOWEVER, WHAT''S GOOD TO KNOW IS YOU'RE GOING TOE TO TOE WITH ANOTHER AMERICAN WHO IS JUST AS GOOD OR BETTER THAN YOU ARE. THIS PAST SEASON, I HAVE SEEN AND PLAYED AGAINST AMERICAN IMPORTS THAT ARE HEAD AND SHOULDERS BETTER THAN SOME THAT I'VE PLAYED AGAINST IN EUROPE. SO, THERE ARE NO EASY STATS, EASY VICTORIES, OR GUARANTEES.

EU: The season has concluded for the Barracudas, having missed out on the quarterfinals by 3 games. How close do u feel the team was to reaching the playoffs? What if any predictions do u have on the ABL playoffs, as you did face each team and received a very good view of what can do what?

CHRIS: I FEEL THAT WE PLAYED TOUGH GAMES, TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION THAT THE GAMES WE LOST WERE IN OVERTIME, BY 7 OR LESS POINTS. ALSO, ILLNESSES KEPT THE MAJORITY OF OUR TEAM FROM BEING ALLOWED TO PLAY IN AN EASY, WINNABLE GAME. BEING THE ONLY TEAM IN THE LEAGUE TO PLAY ONLY 5 PLAYERS (NO SUBSTITUTES AVAILABLE), WE WERE AT A DISADVANTAGE THE MOMENT FOULS WERE CALLED AGAINST OUR TEAM. I THINK THE PLAYOFFS WILL BE VERY INTERESTING. YOU HAVE SOME REAL GAME CHANGERS IN LEO AVENIDO, NIKEA MILLER, GABE PRUITT, AND JASON DIXON. SO IF THE GAMES ARE CLOSE, GET YOUR POPCORN READY. MY PREDICTION IS SINGAPORE WILL TOP THE ABL THIS SEASON.

EU: What can we expect from you now that the mid-season transfer period is kicking into high gear?

CHRIS: I'VE RECEIVED OFFERS FROM NUMEROUS COUNTRIES SUCH AS EUROPE, DUBAI, MEXICO, JAPAN, CHINA, AND OTHERS. I'M STILL UNDECIDED ABOUT THE COUNTRY OF MY TRANSITION RIGHT NOW. I'M GOING TO PONDER A LITTLE LONGER ON THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO ME.

EU: How has the adjustment been for you, now that you are a seasoned veteran player? Detail the changes that you have had to make from your first years as a European player? What if any are the differences between European Basketball (Bulgaria/Turkey/Romania) and ball here in the Asian Zone (Korea, Brunei, Mid East countries)?

CHRIS: ADJUSTMENTS ARE MOSTLY MENTAL. DURING MY ROOKIE YEAR IN THE FIBA EUROLEAGUE, I PLAYED WITH A LOT OF EMOTION. OVER THE YEARS, I BEGAN PLAYING THE GAME FROM A MENTAL STANDPOINT. IF YOU CAN CONQUER THE GAME MENTALLY, THE PHYSICAL ASPECT CAN BE A BREATHER. I RECOMMEND THAT ALL ATHLETES AND COACHES READ THE BOOK CALLED 'MIND GYM' BY GARY MACK & DAVID CASSTEVENS. IT DELVES INTO THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MIND GAME. SOME DIFFERENCES IN EUROPEAN AND ASIAN STYLE BASKETBALL ARE THE SPEED OF THE GAME AND SOME OF THE RULES. KOREA, CHINA, AND JAPAN ARE VERY FAST, UP-TEMPO LEAGUES; LOTS OF 3-POINTERS; KOREA AND CHINA USE NBA RULES. EUROPE CAN BE A BIT SLOWER THAN ASIA AS FAR AS TEMPO, BUT THE TALENT LEVEL IN EUROPE IS SECOND TO NONE. I THINK THAT EUROPE IS HANDS DOWN THE BEST TALENT OUTSIDE OF THE NBA. ALSO, EUROPE USE FIBA RULES, AND IT'S A BIT OF A DIFFERENCE REGARDING THE 'NO 3-SECOND RULE' ON DEFENSE. SO, YOU RARELY GET ANY 1-ON-1 PLAY. VERY TACTICAL.

EU: What can we expect from you in the future? There is talk of a development program in the US, we have been told?

CHRIS: A LOT MORE BASKETBALL AND, HOPEFULLY, MORE ADDITIONS TO MY PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP COLLECTIONS.

EU: Are there any last words or thoughts to your many fans both in Europe, Asia and the US?

CHRIS: .I would like to give a BIG Thank You from the bottom of my heart to all of the fans around the world for their time, kindness, encouragement, and tremendous support. You, the fans, make my job much more enjoyable when I step out on that court, and I hear the excitement in your voices and read your enthusiastic signs which will forever plant memorable experiences of you deep into my heart and soul. You have said many wonderful things about me, and you are by far some of the greatest fans in the world, and it has been a great privilege indeed to entertain you from the sports arena. Im glad that I have this special opportunity to thank each and every one of you. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You

EU: Chris, thank you so much for taking the time to sit with us!

WE AT EUROBASKET ALSO WANT TO WISH CHRIS CONTINUED SUCCESS & PROSPERITY IN HIS FUTURE ENDEAVORS, AS WE LOOK TO HEAR MANY MORE GREAT TINGS FROM HIM & ABOUT HIM IN THE SEASONS TO COME!

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  BULGARIA   


Lukoil Academic sealed a win over Romeo Travis and his team - by Eurobasket News
Lukoil Academic- Barak Netanya 84:76

Lukoil Academic used a team game against Romeo Travis (201-F-84, college: Akron) and his Barak Netanya to seal 84:76 win. The Bulgarian team improved to 2-1 record in Group I of EuroChallenge, while the team from Israel dropped to 0-3 record.
Lukoil Academic opened the game with 7-0 run and kept the advantage until the last minutes of the first period. Romeo Travis however tied the game at 19:19 and Washam gave the guests from Israel the lead at 21:19. Veselinov tied it all again in the start of the second period and Travis Peterson (208-C-85, agency: Edge Sports, college: Samford) erupted for 39:29 home lead. After 28-13 in the frame the hosts enjoyed 48:34 halftime deficit. The tempo was also high in the third period and both teams exchanged 17 points for each basket. It allowed Lukoil to keep 65:51 lead after 30 minutes when Heath closed the period from the free throw line. Chris Watson (200-F-75, college: Niagara) and Travis Peterson exchanged for 67:57, while McCollum and Younger reduced to 67:64. Moreover Romeo Travis cut it to 75:74, but Veselinov and Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90, agency: Interperformances) were perfect from the free throw line and Green made the final basket in the game.
Travis Peterson stepped up with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Damjan Stojanovski (197-F-87) netted 15. Bozhidar Avramov added 13, whilst Bruno Sundov (221-C-80, agency: Alti Sport) collected 11 points and the same number of rebounds. Romeo Travis erupted with 32 points and 14 rebounds in defeat and Chris Watson scored 11.

Lukoil Academic: Travis Peterson 17+10 rebs, Damjan Stojanovski 15, Bozhidar Avramov 13, Bruno Sundov 11+11 rebs
Barak Netanya: Romeo Travis 32+14 rebs, Chris Watson 11


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  CANADA   


Euro Basket highlights Trinity Western University Point Guard 'Tristan Smith' - by Ozell Wells
Tristan Smith (183-G-86), the starting point guard for the Trinity Western University Mens Basketball team has had a long journey to finding a place called home. As a stand out players at Rolling Hills Preparatory school in Palos Verde, California, winners of three CIF championships and host too many NBA prospects, Tristan maintained a solid work ethic on the court while posting a 3.65 GPA. Tristan was not only a solid player on the court, but also the captain of the robotics team and a phenomenal actor in the many highly taunted theatre plays created for both the school and upstanding community.
This year Tristan brings his talents to the highly seasoned Trinity Western University Mens basketball team that failed to reach the CIS playoffs last season. While sitting out a season in 2010 due to transfer rulings, Tristan took that time to establish himself as a great team leader from the sidelines and a committed team player who has always prided himself on paying close attention to details and always being in prime shape for any challenge he is presented. The Spartans are currently ranked number 4 in the country, the highest ranking in the schools history. This past weekend the Spartans split games with defending national champions Saskatchewan University Huskies. Smith poured in 16 points in 16 minutes. He is currently 5th in the country in steals and 8th in assist. Tristans statistics is nothing short of solid in limited minutes playing time. He currently maintains a 3.65 GPA and is a media communications major. Smith has been the needed energy and experience that the Trinity Western Mens Basketball team has needed in order to experience so much success this year. The Spartans boast a 16-3 record and clinched their first playoff spot in a handful of years, while maintaining a schools best number 4 ranking in the country. Euro basket would like to continue to support the outstanding student athletes both nationally and internationally. Euro basket will continue to follow our spot lighted player Tristan Smith as the season plays out and wish him the best of luck both on and off the court throughout his career with the Spartans. I am sure we will be hearing a lot more from Smith both in Canada and in his post collegiate career in the International market.

Best Wishes,

Euro Basket


Winter storm prevents Toronto Raptors from leaving Indianapolis after game - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors are staying in Indianapolis after their game against the Indiana Pacers on Monday night because a huge winter storm developing in the midwest caused their flight to be cancelled.

Team spokesman Jim LaBumbard said the team is checking back into its hotel.

The Raptors, whose 104-93 loss was their 12th straight defeat, are scheduled to play the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday in Atlanta.

The storm took aim at a third of the of the U.S. on Monday, threatening to lay a path of heavy snow and ice from the Rockies to New England. A blizzard watch was in effect for Tuesday and Wednesday for southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois and northwest Indiana.

Courtesy of www.thewesternstar.com

Snyder leaves Rainmen - by Eurobasket News
Kirk Snyder's (6'6''-F-83, college: Nevada) underwhelming stint with the Halifax Rainmen came to an end yesterday when the ex-NBA starter left the team to pursue another opportunity.

The six-foot-six small forward saw 28 minutes of floor time in three games with the Rainmen, recording six points and missing 14 of 16 shots. Snyder hadnt played pro basketball in almost two years because of legal problems.

Rainmen owner Andre Levingston said Snyder has drawn interest (from a team) in China for some substantial money and that the 27-year-old is headed to Houston to train for the opportunity.

In other news, the Rainmens opponent for Fridays home game will be the Quebec Kebs, 6-2, instead of the Dayton Air Strikers, 2-6. Levingston said the Premier Basketball League requested the change, but didnt give a reason.

Courtesy of www.metronews.ca

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  CROATIA   


Brod Svjetlost's major setback for the playoffs - by Ivan Ilakovac


KK Brod Svjetlost lost their most important game for the playoffs in Croatian A-1 league.
The game against KK Zabok showed all weaknesses of Zoran Kalpic's team. They didn't have again enough team play and depended on their best player Luka Petkovic (190-G-88)c (192-PG-88 ) who couldn't win allone against the brave team from Zabok.
Luka Petkovicc opened game with 10 points for the biggest lead of his team 19:6 in 5 th minute. KK Zabok came close to 26:23 in the first quarter but it ended 31:23 for the home team.
In second quarter Dragutin Crnjevic's team decreased the KK Brod-Svjetlost's lead minute by a minute. Sasa Jankovic (204-F-84 ), Filip Kraljevic ( 214-C-89 ) and Robert Lez (200-F-79 ) made crucial points for the guests comeback in the game and for the first lead 39:38 in 17 th minute. The unstopable Luka Petkovicc made 19 points for the lead of his team 48:45 at the end of the first half..
The second half began again with Petkovic and his two 3-pointers for the lead 56:50 in the 23 rd minute. The game was tight the whole 3rd quarter and ended 63:59 for KK Brod-Svjetlost.
At the end of third and the beginning of fourth period KK Zabok's youngsters Toni Brnas (201-F-91) and Roko Rogic ( 185-G-92 ) made 12 points in a row for the guests lead 70:66. After that the game was very tight. Igor Maric (197-SF-85 ) made two free throws for the lead of home team 78:76. Robert Lez made a layup and 40 minutes ended 78:78. The game was going for the overtime.
KK Zabok played better in overtime. The crucial were two 3-pointers from Luka Pesut (193-G-91 ) for the guests lead 88:80 in 43 rd minute. The game ended 99:90 in a favour of KK Zabok.
Luka Petkovicc had a great game scoring tripple-double - 34 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds. Srdjan Helbich added 16 and Igor Maric 14 points.
For KK Zabok the best player was their forward Robert Lez with 24 points, 6 assists and 6 rebounds.
The next challenge for KK Brod-Svjetlost will be guest game against the leader KK Split.

by co-correspondent Kresimir Grcevic


Cedevita outlast Gran Canaria in overtime - by Eurobasket News
Cedevita - Gran Canaria 114:110 (OT)

Cedevita stayed in the race for EuroCup playoffs. They held off Gran Canaria in overtime thriller tonight. The victory gave Cedevita the first win at Last 16 stage. They caught up with Gran Canaria at 1-2 record in Group I. Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) erupted for impressive 35 points in the victory.
Gran Canaria and Cedevita got to a flying start. The buckets were dropping from everywhere in the first quarter as the teams teamed up for 54 points. Gran Canaria proved a bit more accurate as they posted a 28:26 lead after ten minutes. The Spaniards maintained the lead throughout the second stanza. Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) was a usual contributor for the visitors as they recorded a 6-point lead at halftime 49:43. Cedevita started to turn it up in the third quarter. They slowed their opponents down and cut the distance to 4 points. Cedevita exploded with 32 points in the fourth term and eventually drew things level to force overtime. Damjan Rudez continued to drain triples in the extra period and Cedevita finally tamed Gran Canaria for the initial win in Group I. Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana) produced 24 points, while Corsley Edwards (205-C/F-79, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Cent.Conn.St.) had 18 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Jaycee Carroll responded with 28 points for Gran Canaria. Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Cedevita: Damjan Rudez 35, Bracey Wright 24, Corsley Edwards 18
Gran Canaria: Jaycee Carroll 28, Sitapha Savane 16


BC Telenet Oostende remain perfect in Group L of EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
BC Zadar-BC Oostende 73:85

BC Telenet Oostende remain perfect in Group L of EuroChallenge after a road trip to Croatia. The Belgian Powerhouse overcame BC Zadar 85:73. The Belgian club improved to 3-0 in Last 16 Group L and dropped the Croatia hosts to 1-2.
Both teams nailed 20 points in the opening period as Brandon Brown (202-F-81, college: Tulane) closed 10 minutes in the court. The second quarter saw both teams continue to trade baskets throughout the period and the guests were able to maintain their lead as the sides headed into the locker rooms with the visitors leading 48:36 at the half. In the second half the visitors continued to demonstrate their dominance and after 19-14 had 67:50 after 30 minutes. Faison nailed three to open the last period and Caleb Green (203-F-85, college: ORU) scored for 74:51. Ivanov reduced to 75:55 and Marcinkovic made two free throws for 81:71 closing a 10-0 run. Mitchell and Will Thomas (200-F-86, agency: Interperformances) however scored the free throws for their team to win the game.
Caleb Green was responsible for 26 points and Darrel Mitchell (180-G-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: LSU) netted 23. Will Thomas followed them with 17 points to keep the perfect record. Brandon Brown finished the game with 19 points in defeat, Chester Mason (192-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: Miami (OH)) netted 11 and Miro Bilan (212-F-89) posted 10.

BC Zadar: Brandon Brown 19, Chester Mason 11, Miro Bilan 10
BC Oostende: Caleb Green 26, Darrel Mitchell 23, Will Thomas 17


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Joshua Shipp carries Galatasaray past Nymburk - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray - Nymburk 76:75

Galatasaray snatched a vital win against Nymburk in EuroCup Last 16 tonight. Joshua Shipp (196-G/F-86, college: UCLA) hit a buzzer-beater to rescue the home team from a big time embarrassment. The Turkish team improved at 1-2 record, while dropping Nymburk at 0-3 in Group K.
Both teams entered the game in a bad need of a victory. Nymburk looked slightly better in the opening frame. The visitors surprised Galatasaray to record a 17:14 lead after ten minutes. Nymburk improved their performance in the second term and cleared off. The Czech champions arrived at halftime up by 8 points 40:32. Galatasaray and Nymburk traded baskets throughout intense third frame. The hosts fired from all guns in the fourth quarter. The hosts managed to cut the deficit. Joshua Shipp had the last laugh in the clash as his buzzer-beater send the fans on their feet. Joshua Shipp finished with 17 points and 13 boards for Galatasaray. Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) added 14 points in the victory. Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington) answered with 22 points for Nymburk. Pavel Pumprla (196-G-86) had 14 points in the loss.

Galatasaray: Joshua Shipp 17+13 boards, Preston Shumpert 14, Evren Buker (194-F-85) 12
Nymburk: Chester Simmons 22, Pavel Pumprla 14


BK Prostejov surprise Lokomotiv Kuban, tie them at 1-2 - by Eurobasket News
BK Prostejov-Lokomotiv Kuban 67:66

BK Prostejov surprised Lokomotiv Kuban at home to tie them at 1-2 records in Group L of Eurochallenge. The home side upset one of the favorites of the tournament 67:66due to the last period.
In a low scoring first quarter the teams paid too much attention to defense. Bertengeh Cadri-Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) made a jump shot to close the first period at 10-13. The hosts struggled to eat into the Lokomotiv Kuban lead during the second quarter and managed to take the advantage. Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, college: St.John's) nailed three for 20:13 and Zagorac brought 28:21. Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) however closed a 9-0 run for Kuban, while Eugene Lawrence kept the hosts in front at 33:29 at the halftime. Due to 23-11 in the third period Lokomotiv took 52:44 lead after Jeremiah Massey another shot. BK Prostejov however finally got their reward in the last quarter. Trailing 52:60, the team from Czech Republic cut it to 61:62 and then grabbed the lead. Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) tied the game at 66:66 with 30 seconds to go, while Eugene Lawrence made the final basket for the hosts.
Eugene Lawrence top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) added 16. Bertengeh Cadri-Nicholson notched 11, while Kyle Landry (206-F-86, college: N.Arizona) collected 6 points and 13 rebounds. Jeremiah Massey delivered 23points in the losing effort and Michael Wilkinson had 15 points and 10 rebounds.

BK Prostejov: Eugene Lawrence 19, Benas Veikalas 16, Bertengeh Cadri-Nicholson 11, Kyle Landry 6+13 rebs
Lokomotiv Kuban: Jeremiah Massey 23, Michael Wilkinson 15+10 rebs


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  D-LEAGUE   


Springfield Armor sign Tony Bobbitt, waive injured Chas McFarland - by Eurobasket News
The Springfield Armor on Monday signed guard Tony Bobbitt (6'4''-G-79, college: Cincinnati) and waived injured center Chas McFarland.

Bobbitt played seven games with the Armor last season after being traded from Maine. He has also played for Bakersfield and Colorado (now Texas) in the D-League and has made a few stops in Europe and Mexico.

After playing collegiately at Cincinnati, he signed a free agent contract with the Los Angeles Lakers and played a total of nine games between 2004 and 2006.

McFarland suffered a broken right hand in last Thursdays loss to Tulsa. The center averaged 10.7 points and 6.2 rebounds in 18 games with the Armor, which is hoping to have fellow guard L.D. Williams back from injury this week when they start a three-game road swing out west beginning with Reno on Wednesday.

Courtesy of www.masslive.com

With Farmar out, Nets will sign Orien Greene to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, college: La-Lafayette) hasn't played in the NBA since he appeared in seven games with the Sacramento Kings during the 2007-08 season, but he's apparently shown the New Jersey Nets that he deserves another chance as a source has confirmed to FanHouse that Greene has received a 10-day call-up from the team.

The move was first reported by Jonathan Givony of DraftExpres on Twitter.

Greene, a 6-foot-4 guard out of Louisiana-Lafayette, was the 53rd overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. Greene has played in 128 career NBA games, including seven starts, but the defensive stalwart was never able to get his offense going as he averaged just 2.5 points on 39 percent shooting in stints with the Celtics, Kings and Indiana Pacers.

The biggest thing keeping him out of the NBA, however, may have been some off-court mishaps. With the Celtics, he was suspended for driving 90 miles per hour on a city street. Last season, while playing in Venezuela, it was discovered that he failed a drug test while playing in Amsterdam a year earlier.

'It ain't Jerusalem,' Greene told True Hoop's Henry Abbott last month. 'You have to go check out Amsterdam for yourself. Can't really do nothing about that.'

He's worked hard changing that image, however, and has been a seemingly model citizen off the court while playing for the NBA D-League's Utah Flash the past two seasons.

'I ain't getting no younger. More guys coming out, more athletic. More a lot of stuff. But I don't think there's a lot of guys in the league right now who can bring what I bring. I'm 28. Whatever,' Greene told True Hoop. 'A lot of guys in the league that I see right now, don't really play both sides of the ball. Lord willing, lord willing, somebody's going to call me and I can get back in.'

Playing both sides of the ball is something that Greene is doing quite well as he's currently averaging 18.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 2.0 steals while playing a point-forward role for the Flash.

He's also been catching the attention of people in the basketball world, whether it be from opposing D-League teams or NBA scouts.

'I loved his versatility at the showcase. He played point or the wing, and his game never wavered wherever he was playing,' Fort Wayne Mad Ants president Jeff Potter recently wrote on his blog. 'I've heard he is not a great shooter, but I thought he shot well when I saw him, and I loved how active he was on defense.'

An NBA scout said similar things while talking to FanHouse prior to the D-League Showcase when asked which players were interesting.

'Greene's a great athlete with an NBA body,' the scout said. 'He's always been aggressive attacking the basket, he's really improved his outside shooting this year. On defense, he's got a great knack for the ball and active hands. The only thing holding him back right now is he often times comes off as being a little out of control.'

It's not known how much of a chance he'll be given during his initial 10-day contract with the Nets, but it seems like he at least deserved another opportunity to show the NBA that he still has what it takes to play in the big leagues.

Courtesy of http://nba.fanhouse.com

Tulsa's Dyson named D-League Performer of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) of the Tulsa 66ers was named NBA Development League Performer of the Week on Monday for games played during the week of Jan. 24.

Dyson, a guard out of Connecticut who spent the 2010 NBA Summer League with the Cleveland Cavaliers, led the 66ers to a 2-1 record on the week, averaging 28.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.0 steals.

After scoring 21 points in Tulsa's 107-101 win at Springfield on Jan. 27, Dyson shot 6-of-9 from three-point range, scoring a game-high 37 points to go along with four rebounds, two assists and two steals in the 66ers 118-98 victory over the Armor the next day.

He also scored a team-high 27 points in Tulsas 109-106 loss to Maine on Sunday.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

Ants fall to Utah 92-84 - by Eurobasket News
Utah F. - Ft.Wayne MA 92-84
The Mad Ants continue their recent slide losing for the ninth time in ten games as Fort Wayne fell at the Utah Flash 92-84. The Ants led 53-41 at half but came unglued in the third quarter. Fort Wayne was outscored 33-12 in the third frame and never recovered. Walker Russell (6'0''-G-82, college: Jacksonville St.) led the Ants with 24 points. Darnell Lazare (6'8''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: LSU) was the only other Ant in double figures with 20 points. Ronald DuPree (6'7''-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: LSU) led the Flash with 22 points. The Ants return home Thursday night to take on Austin. *Courtesy of www.wane.com



Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Iowa E. 20-8 
 2. Erie Bay H. 18-9 
 3. Ft.Wayne MA 13-16 
 4. Dakota W. 9-20 
 5. Sioux Falls S. 3-21 
Southwest Division
 1. Tulsa 66ers 22-7 
 2. Rio Grande 18-8 
 3. Texas L. 14-13 
 4. New Mexico 13-15 
 5. Austin T. 12-15 
 6. Maine RC 12-17 
West Division
 1. Reno Bighorns 17-12 
 2. Bakersfield J. 16-12 
 3. Utah F. 14-12 
 4. Idaho S. 10-17 
 5. Springfield A. 9-18 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Trey JOHNSON
  Toronto R.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 26
 1. Johnson, Bakersfi.26.0 
 2. Jeffers, Iowa E.20.8 
 3. Johnson, Erie B.19.9 
 4. Dentmon, Texas L.19.7 
 5. Alexander, Texas L.19.6 
 6. Edwards, New M.18.7 
 7. Tucker, New Mexico18.6 
 8. Sims, Maine RC18.2 
 9. Greene, Utah F.18.0 
 10. Stinson, Iowa E.17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeff ADRIEN
  Rio Grande
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Adrien, Rio Grande12.3 
 2. Alexander, Texas L.10.0 
 3. Williams, Texas L.10.0 
 4. Sims, Iowa E.9.9 
 5. Davidson, Idaho S.9.8 
 6. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.9.8 
 7. Johnson, Dakota W.9.7 
 8. Jeffers, Iowa E.9.2 
 9. Williams, Tulsa 66ers8.6 
 10. Wheeler, Idaho S.8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Aaron MILES
  Reno Bighorns
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Miles, Reno Bighorns8.7 
 2. Stinson, Iowa E.8.7 
 3. Daniels, Texas L.8.6 
 4. Jackson, Idaho S.8.0 
 5. Russell, Ft.Wayne.7.4 
 6. Jackson, Erie B.6.6 
 7. Ahearn, Erie Bay H.6.5 
 8. Johnson, Austin T.6.0 
 9. Reynolds, Spring.5.8 
 10. Reynolds, Spring.5.8 
Steals Per Game
 Aaron MILES
  Reno Bighorns
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Miles, Reno Bighorns2.5 
 2. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers2.5 
 3. Jeffers, Iowa E.2.3 
 4. Lin, Reno Bighorns2.3 
 5. Lofton, Iowa E.2.2 
 6. Jackson, Idaho S.2.2 
 7. Linhart, Erie B.2.1 
 8. Jackson, Erie B.2.1 
 9. Hamilton, Utah F.2.0 
 10. Russell, Ft.Wayne.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Sean WILLIAMS
  Texas L.
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Williams, Texas L.3.2 
 2. Johnson, Dakota W.3.1 
 3. N''Diaye, Dakota W.2.6 
 4. Alabi, Erie Bay H.2.5 
 5. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers2.4 
 6. Sykes, Sioux F.2.3 
 7. Naymick, Bakersfi.2.2 
 8. Whiteside, Reno B.2.2 
 9. O''Bryant, Reno B.1.8 
 10. Pittman, Sioux F.1.8 


*****************************************************
  EGYPT   


Al Ittihad clinch Emirates NDB trophy - by Eurobasket
Egypts Al Ittihad Alexandria Club gave their compatriots back home something to cheer about by emerging victorious in the 22nd Dubai International Basketball Championships for the Emirates NBD Cup concluded at Al Ahli Sports Hall in Dubai on Saturday night.

The Egyptian side from Alexandria, who are have been regulars in this competition, rallied in the third quarter to beat the more fancied Smart Gilas from the Philippines 84-73 in the final.
Syrias Al Wahda claimed third place after their opponents from Lebanon Sagesse failed to turn up for the playoff.
The Dubai Duty Free backed Smart Gilas, who defeated Hoops Club of Lebanon 86-69 in the semifinal, were ahead in the opening quarters 23-21 23-15.
But the First Security Group sponsored Ittihad, fought back in the next two quarters 24-11 27-18 to win the title.
UAE and Al Sharjah lost in the group stages.
In group A, UAE lost to Hoops from Lebanon 88-69, Sagesse 90-69 and Al Ittihad Alexandria from Syriya 73-70.
In group B, Al Sharjah lost to El Ettehad El Sakandary 85-77, Syrias Al Wahda 77-70 and Smart Gilas 92-67.
Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Ismail Gergawi, president of the UAE Basketball Association, distributed the awards.

Courtesy of Emirates247.com

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


Standings - KML
EMKL Standings
 1. TU/Rock 20-2 
 2. Kalev/Cramo 18-3 
 3. TTU/Kalev 14-5 
 4. Rakvere 11-11 
 5. Valga/CKE 9-12 
 6. Rapla 8-12 
 7. TTU/Kalev II 8-13 
 8. Parnu 5-15 
 9. Voru KK 1-21 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Voru KK
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Thornton, Voru KK18.7 
 2. Saage, Rakvere18.1 
 3. Raap, Parnu17.5 
 4. Erm, Rapla16.2 
 5. Brown, Va.16.2 
 6. Arnold, TT.15.1 
 7. Raadik, Parnu14.9 
 8. Kuuba, Voru KK14.8 
 9. Osby, TT.14.4 
 10. Tagamets, Va.14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Voru KK
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Thornton, Voru KK12.2 
 2. Brown, Va.11.9 
 3. Arnold, TT.11.2 
 4. Ringmets, Rapla9.7 
 5. Eziukwu, TU/Rock9.1 
 6. Osby, TT.8.9 
 7. Kuuba, Voru KK8.9 
 8. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.8.3 
 9. Pokla, Rakvere7.3 
 10. Raadik, Parnu6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Tanel SOKK
  Kalev/Cramo
  (184-G-85)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.8 
 2. Kriisa, TT.3.5 
 3. Sokk, TU/Rock3.1 
 4. Oja, Va.3.1 
 5. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo2.9 
 6. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock2.8 
 7. Karner, Parnu2.8 
 8. Ringmets, Rapla2.7 
 9. Pokla, Rakvere2.5 
 10. Dorbek, Rakvere2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Silver LEPPIK
  TU/Rock
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 2. Laane, Rapla2.2 
 3. Doronin, TU/Rock2.2 
 4. Saage, Rakvere2.2 
 5. Raap, Parnu1.9 
 6. Veideman, TU/Rock1.9 
 7. Dorbek, Rakvere1.9 
 8. Pilk, TT.1.8 
 9. Oja, Va.1.8 
 10. Archibald, TT.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock2.1 
 2. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.5 
 3. Osby, TT.1.5 
 4. Raadik, Parnu1.1 
 5. Brown, Va.0.9 
 6. Arnold, TT.0.8 
 7. Talts, TU/Rock0.8 
 8. Saarmets, TTU/K.0.7 
 9. Raadik, TU/Rock0.7 
 10. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.7 


*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   


EuroChallenge Round: 3 (Top 16) - by Eurobasket News
Group I
Lukoil Academik - Elitzur Netanya 84-76
Lukoil Academic used a team game against Romeo Travis and his Barak Netanya to seal 84:76 win. The Bulgarian team improved to 2-1 record in Group I of EuroChallenge, while the team from Israel dropped to 0-3 record. Lukoil Academic opened the game with 7-0 run and kept the advantage until the last minutes of the first period. Romeo Travis however tied the game at 19:19 and Washam gave the guests from Israel the lead at 21:19. Veselin Veselinov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Virginia St.) tied it all again in the start of the second period and Travis Peterson (208-C-85, agency: Edge Sports, college: Samford) erupted for 39:29 home lead. After 28-13 in the frame the hosts enjoyed 48:34 halftime deficit. The tempo was also high in the third period and both teams exchanged 17 points for each basket. It allowed Lukoil to keep 65:51 lead after 30 minutes when Heath closed the period from the free throw line. Watson and Travis Peterson exchanged for 67:57, while McCollum and Younger reduced to 67:64. Moreover Romeo Travis cut it to 75:74, but Veselin Veselinov and Avramov were perfect from the free throw line and Green made the final basket in the game. Travis Peterson stepped up with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Stojanovski netted 15. Avramov added 13, whilst Sundov collected 11 points and the same number of rebounds. Romeo Travis erupted with 32 points and 14 rebounds in defeat and Watson scored 11.

Spartak SP - Maccabi Haifa 101-60
Spartak destroy Maccabi Haifa to open EuroChallenge Day 3 in St.Petersburg. An easy start allowed the Russian team celebrate 101:60 win for the perfect record in Group I. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) brought the first three points for the hosts that never looked behind in the game. He also scored the last 7 points in the opening period for hiss die to give them 33:18 advantage. In the second frame however the guests replied with 15-11 as Killingsworth reduced to 42:33. Dragovic opened the third frame from the perimeter and the court belonged later only to the home side. With 30-12 in it Spartak reached 74:45 after three periods. Jackson and Rothbart reduced to 74:49, while Korchagin and Zozulin scored for 95:56. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) gave three digit-number for the home side in the end and Landesberg made the final score in the campaign. Henry Domercant paced all the winners with 21 points, while Ponkrashov and Patrick Beverley (185-G-88, college: Arkansas) delivered 13 points apiece. Killingsworth ended up with 13 points in the losing effort and Rothbart scored 10.

Group J
Krka - Antwerp 62-46
Krka wins over the Giants in the defensive style in Eurochallenge Last 16 Day 3. The Slovenian underdogs improved to 2-1 record after 62:46 win. Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Canisius) opened the game for the guests and he also closed the period at 12:10. Another seven baskets in a row from the player brought 21;16 lead for his team midway through the second period. Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80) and Balazic meanwhile closed the second frame to taste 28:24 halftime advantage. Antwerp Giants could not score for about minutes in the game, while Novo Mesto went on a 24-0 run bridging the second and third quarters. Drobnjak made it 42:24 and only Moors broke the silence for the visitors. Djordjevic closed the period at 46:30 and after 16-16 in the last quarter Krka celebrated the necessary win. Smiljan Pavic made a jump shot to be the last player to score in the game. Christopher Booker paced all the winners with 17 points and Smiljan Pavic nailed 11. Muric ended up with 10 points, while Balazic scored 6. Darnell Wilson replied with 23 points in the losing effort, whilst Moors notched 11.

Karsiyaka - M.Hainaut 94-71
Pinar Karsiyaka is on top of EuroChallenge Group J after another victory in the tournament. This time the Turkish underdogs overcame Dexia Mons-Hainaut 94:71. The Turkish club improved to 3-0 in Group J and dropped Dexia to 1-2. As the game started, the hosts showed that there were no adverse effects to the long journey as they leapt out to an early lead. Dexia Mons-Hainaut tried to pull themselves back into the game and traded baskets for the remainder of the opening period to trail 17:20. Ahmet Ali Erdogan (186-G-86) and Batuk scored for 25:17 and Saruhan made it 31:23. Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) sent the teams to the lockers at 46:36 making three with a foul. In the third quarter the Turkish representative erupted with 31-15 and took 77:51 after three quarters.Bellin scored four points in a row for his team to cut it to 79:55, while Osiris Eldridge (191-G-88, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) made seven for the home side to give them 87:59. Cage was the last to score in the game for the final result. Stanojevic and Smith top-scored for the winners with 19 points each to remain perfect. Holston followed them with 15 and Osiris Eldridge netted 14. Ben McCauley replied with 19 points in the losing effort, while Taylor netted 14 and Cage posted 11.

Group K
Gravelines - Ventspils 74-70
BCM Gravelines Dunkerque conquer Group K of EuroChallenge registering another victory in the tournament. The French team grabbed a home 74:70 victory over BK Ventspils for 3-0 record. It was tough start for both teams and both of them could take the lead after 10 minutes. The hosts however nailed 4 three-pointers at the very end to take 23:21 lead. Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83, college: Connecticut) later gave Ventspils 33:27 and Bankevics brought 45:32. Yannick Bokolo (191-G-85) nailed another three-pointer to send the teams to the lockers at 42:38. BK Ventspils also won the third frame and after 18-14 increased the lead to 60:52. The game however was not over for the French outfit. They started the fourth period with 8-0 run as Johnson tied the game at 60:60. Sene made it equal at 64:64 and later the hosts dominated the court. Cyril Akpomedah (203-F-79) brought the last points for the winners and Berzins made the final result in the game. Woodside erupted with 27 points for the hosts and Sene had 15 points and 10 rebounds. Johnson netted 11, while Cyril Akpomedah scored 10. Rashad Anderson delivered 25 points for the Baltic side that dropped at 1-2 record. Berzins scored 15 and Kuzminskas collected 13 points and 11 rebounds.

Group L
BK Prostejov - Lokomotiv 67-66
BK Prostejov surprised Lokomotiv Kuban at home to tie them at 1-2 records in Group L of Eurochallenge. The home side upset one of the favorites of the tournament 67:66due to the last period. In a low scoring first quarter the teams paid too much attention to defense. Cadri made a jump shot to close the first period at 10-13. The hosts struggled to eat into the Lokomotiv Kuban lead during the second quarter and managed to take the advantage. Lawrence nailed three for 20:13 and Zagorac brought 28:21. Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) however closed a 9-0 run for Kuban, while Lawrence kept the hosts in front at 33:29 at the halftime. Due to 23-11 in the third period Lokomotiv took 52:44 lead after Jeremiah Massey another shot. BK Prostejov however finally got their reward in the last quarter. Trailing 52:60, the team from Czech Republic cut it to 61:62 and then grabbed the lead. Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) tied the game at 66:66 with 30 seconds to go, while Lawrence made the final basket for the hosts. Lawrence top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Veikalas added 16. Cadri notched 11, while Landry collected 6 points and 13 rebounds. Jeremiah Massey delivered 23points in the losing effort and Michael Wilkinson had 15 points and 10 rebounds.

Zadar - Oostende 73-85
BC Telenet Oostende remain perfect in Group L of EuroChallenge after a road trip to Croatia. The Belgian Powerhouse overcame BC Zadar 85:73. The Belgian club improved to 3-0 in Last 16 Group L and dropped the Croatia hosts to 1-2. Both teams nailed 20 points in the opening period as Brandon Brown (202-F-81, college: Tulane) closed 10 minutes in the court. The second quarter saw both teams continue to trade baskets throughout the period and the guests were able to maintain their lead as the sides headed into the locker rooms with the visitors leading 48:36 at the half. In the second half the visitors continued to demonstrate their dominance and after 19-14 had 67:50 after 30 minutes. Faison nailed three to open the last period and Green scored for 74:51. Ivanov reduced to 75:55 and Pavle Marcinkovic (197-G-89) made two free throws for 81:71 closing a 10-0 run. Mitchell and Thomas however scored the free throws for their team to win the game. Green was responsible for 26 points and Darrel Mitchell netted 23. Thomas followed them with 17 points to keep the perfect record. Brandon Brown finished the game with 19 points in defeat, Mason netted 11 and Bilan posted 10.



Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mohammed ABUKAR
  Lugano Tigers
  (208-F-85)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Abukar, Lugano T.20.8 
 2. Trotter, Szolnok19.4 
 3. Anderson, Ventspils17.6 
 4. Hopkins, Antwerp17.4 
 5. Banks, Elitzur .17.4 
 6. Woodside, Gravelines17.3 
 7. Travis, Elitzur .17.3 
 8. Shabalkin, Dynamo17.3 
 9. King, Etha17.0 
 10. Lewis, M.Hainaut17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Furkan ALDEMIR
  Karsiyaka
  (205-F-91)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Aldemir, Karsiyaka11.7 
 2. Landry, BK Prost.10.7 
 3. Eziukwu, TU/Rock10.5 
 4. Clark, Szolnok9.1 
 5. Kjellbom, Norrkoping8.9 
 6. Zoric, KK.8.8 
 7. Massey, Lokomotiv8.6 
 8. Bader, Szolnok8.5 
 9. Travis, Elitzur .8.4 
 10. King, Etha8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Germaine JACKSON
  Maccabi Haifa
  (195-G-76)
  Avg: 6
 1. Jackson, Maccabi .6.0 
 2. Linehan, Nancy5.9 
 3. Millage, Khimik5.9 
 4. Ponkrashov, Spart.5.6 
 5. Brener, Elitzur .5.5 
 6. Trotter, Szolnok5.3 
 7. Wood, Dt.5.2 
 8. Mitchell, Norrkoping5.1 
 9. Strelnieks, Ventspils5.1 
 10. Woodside, Gravelines5.1 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 4
 1. Linehan, Nancy4.0 
 2. Millage, Khimik2.9 
 3. Vladovic, Zadar2.4 
 4. Renfroe, KK.2.3 
 5. Dabkus, Etha2.3 
 6. Holston, Karsiyaka2.2 
 7. Wilson, Antwerp2.2 
 8. Trotter, Szolnok2.1 
 9. Eldridge, Karsiyaka2.1 
 10. Lewis, M.Hainaut2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Gravelines
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Akpomedah, Grave.2.3 
 2. King, Etha2.0 
 3. Sene, Gravelines2.0 
 4. Mejri, Antwerp1.9 
 5. Stiemsma, Turk T.1.8 
 6. Aldemir, Karsiyaka1.7 
 7. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.7 
 8. Clark, Szolnok1.6 
 9. Eziukwu, TU/Rock1.5 
 10. Bader, Szolnok1.4 


Standings
EuroChallenge Standings
Group I
 1. Spartak SP 3-0 
 2. Lukoil Academik 2-1 
 3. Maccabi Haifa 1-2 
 4. Elitzur Netanya 0-3 
Group J
 1. Karsiyaka 3-0 
 2. Krka 2-1 
 3. M.Hainaut 1-2 
 4. Antwerp 0-3 
Group K
 1. Gravelines 3-0 
 2. Norrkoping 1-1 
 3. Ventspils 1-2 
 4. Benfica 0-2 
Group L
 1. Oostende 3-0 
 2. Zadar 1-2 
 3. Lokomotiv 1-2 
 4. BK Prostejov 1-2 


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Primoz BREZEC
  Krasnie Krilya
  (216-F/C-79)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Brezec, Krasnie .20.8 
 2. Janicenoks, VEF R.20.3 
 3. Carroll, Gran Canaria18.5 
 4. Solomon, Hapoel J.18.0 
 5. Walsh, AS.17.7 
 6. Tucker, Aris17.1 
 7. Chatman, Besiktas16.8 
 8. Lyday, Unics16.7 
 9. Simmons, CEZ N.16.7 
 10. Papadopoulos, PAOK16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lazaros PAPADOPOULOS
  PAOK
  (210-C-80)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Papadopoulos, PAOK12.2 
 2. Brezec, Krasnie .9.7 
 3. Walsh, AS.8.3 
 4. Macvan, Hemofarm8.0 
 5. Tucker, Aris7.9 
 6. Ellis, GasTerra7.7 
 7. Owens, Azovmash7.5 
 8. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.7.5 
 9. Lampe, Unics7.4 
 10. Jones, Pepsi C.7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Ernest BREMER
  Krasnie Krilya
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Bremer, Krasnie .8.3 
 2. Popovic, Unics7.0 
 3. Draper, Cedevita6.7 
 4. Mekel, Galil Gilboa6.3 
 5. Walsh, AS.6.0 
 6. Meacham, Goett.5.8 
 7. Thomas, Anwil5.3 
 8. Markovic, Benetton.5.2 
 9. Granger, Estudian.4.9 
 10. Lukauskis, EWE B.4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Mindaugas LUKAUSKIS
  EWE Baskets
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Lukauskis, EWE B.2.5 
 2. Janicenoks, VEF R.2.5 
 3. House, Azovmash2.5 
 4. Popovic, Unics2.5 
 5. Dourisseau, GasTe.2.3 
 6. Draper, Cedevita2.3 
 7. Kirksay, Cajasol2.3 
 8. Diabate, Roanne2.3 
 9. Jasen, Estudiantes2.2 
 10. Pumprla, CEZ N.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Brian RANDLE
  Hapoel J-M
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Randle, Hapoel J-M2.1 
 2. Francis, Panellinios2.0 
 3. Berzins, VEF Riga1.8 
 4. Dunston, Aris1.6 
 5. Skinner, Benetton.1.3 
 6. Chan, CEZ Nymburk1.2 
 7. Rupert, Le Mans1.1 
 8. Edwards, Cedevita1.1 
 9. Owens, Azovmash1.0 
 10. Fofana, AS.1.0 


Standings
Eurocup Standings
Group I
 1. Unics 3-0 
 2. Hemofarm 1-2 
 3. Gran Canaria 1-2 
 4. Cedevita 1-2 
Group J
 1. Budivelnyk 2-1 
 2. Goettingen 2-1 
 3. Le Mans 1-2 
 4. Aris 1-2 
Group K
 1. Pepsi Caserta 3-0 
 2. Estudiantes 2-1 
 3. Galatasaray 1-2 
 4. CEZ Nymburk 0-3 
Group L
 1. Cajasol 3-0 
 2. Benetton TV 2-1 
 3. ALBA 1-2 
 4. Panellinios 0-3 


Eurocup Round: 3 (Top 16) - by Eurobasket News
Group I
Cedevita - Gran Canaria 114-110 OT
Cedevita stayed in the race for EuroCup playoffs. They held off Gran Canaria in overtime thriller tonight. The victory gave Cedevita the first win at Last 16 stage. They caught up with Gran Canaria at 1-2 record in Group I. Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) erupted for impressive 35 points in the victory. Gran Canaria and Cedevita got to a flying start. The buckets were dropping from everywhere in the first quarter as the teams teamed up for 54 points. Gran Canaria proved a bit more accurate as they posted a 28:26 lead after ten minutes. The Spaniards maintained the lead throughout the second stanza. Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) was a usual contributor for the visitors as they recorded a 6-point lead at halftime 49:43. Cedevita started to turn it up in the third quarter. They slowed their opponents down and cut the distance to 4 points. Cedevita exploded with 32 points in the fourth term and eventually drew things level to force overtime. Damjan Rudez continued to drain triples in the extra period and Cedevita finally tamed Gran Canaria for the initial win in Group I. Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana) produced 24 points, while Corsley Edwards (205-C/F-79, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Cent.Conn.St.) had 18 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Jaycee Carroll responded with 28 points for Gran Canaria. Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Hemofarm - Unics 83-84
Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) scored 28 points and Unics celebrated the third straight win at EuroCup Last 16. They upset Hemofarm in Serbia tonight. The victory propelled Unics at 3-0 record on top of Group I. Hemofarm fell at 1-2 record in the ladder. Hemofarm looked dominant in the first quarter. The Serbian team spurred in front to post a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. But Unics quickly bounced back. Led by Terrell Lyday the Russian powerhouse erased the deficit and posted a 38:37 lead at halftime. Unics stayed in front throughout the third term. They accumulated a 59:55 lead at the final break. Hemofarm drew things level late in regulation 83:83 but Unics managed to escape with a narrow one-point win at the end. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) produced 17 points and 11 rebounds for Unics. Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) and Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) added 14 points each in the win. Boris Savovic (206-F-87) answered with 22 points and 8 rebounds for Hemofarm. Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 19 points and 9 assists in defeat.

Group J
Aris - Goettingen 82-84
Goettingen celebrated the second win in EuroCup Last 16 round. They pip Aris in Greece to climb at 2-1 record in Group J. Mike Scott (203-F-86, college: Kent St.) knocked down 18 points to lead the visitors. Aris fell at 1-2 record after the loss. The teams stayed close early in the encounter before Bobby Brown allowed Aris to grab a 22:16 lead after ten minutes. Sloukas and Borovnjak gave the hosts a 9-point buffer midway through the second term. Bobby Brown soon boosted the margin to double figures. Goettingen quickly responded with nine straight points to stay close. Aris entered the second half up by just four points 43:39. Kosta Charalampidis (189-G-76) nailed 5 points as Aris started to take over in the third term. The hosts soon grabbed a massive 70:52 lead looking to cruise to the victory. But the German team stopped the rot. They went on a stunning 19:0 run to eke out a 71:70 lead. The teams exchanged baskets for some time after so it all came down to the final seconds. Kosta Charalampidis and Tapoutos missed key shots for Aris and Goettingen escaped with an important win at the end. Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) netted 16 points and collected 8 rebounds for Geottingen. Robert Kulawick (191-G-86, agency: Court Side) contributed 15 points in the win. Kosta Charalampidis answered with 18 points for Aris. P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) finished with 17 points and 9 boards in the loss.

Budivelnyk - Le Mans 67-61
Budivelnyk clinched the second win in EuroCup Last 16. They outscored Le Mans to improve at 2-1 record on top of Group J. William Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.) came up with 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead the hosts. Le Mans fell at 1-2 record after the loss. The teams traded baskets throughout the opening stanza. Budivelnyk eked out a 16:13 lead after ten minutes. Lukashov and Ikovlev stretched the lead to 8 points in the second quarter. Alex Akcer stepped up for the French team cutting the deficit but Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) gave the home team a 31:27 lead at the interval. Budivelnyk extended the margin to 10 points in the third term. The Ukrainian vice-champions headed into the fourth quarter up by 11 points 52:41. Benjamin Dewar (196-G/F-81, college: L.Superior) fought bravely as he narrowed the margin to 6 points 55:61 midway through the fourth quarter. But William Keys answered from downtown and Budivelnyk hung on to win the game. Zach Morley had 14 points, while Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) added 12 in the win. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) answered with 17 points for Le Mans. Benjamin Dewar had 14 points in the loss.

Group K
Galatasaray - CEZ Nymburk 76-75
Galatasaray snatched a vital win against Nymburk in EuroCup Last 16 tonight. Joshua Shipp (196-G/F-86, college: UCLA) hit a buzzer-beater to rescue the home team from a big time embarrassment. The Turkish team improved at 1-2 record, while dropping Nymburk at 0-3 in Group K. Both teams entered the game in a bad need of a victory. Nymburk looked slightly better in the opening frame. The visitors surprised Galatasaray to record a 17:14 lead after ten minutes. Nymburk improved their performance in the second term and cleared off. The Czech champions arrived at halftime up by 8 points 40:32. Galatasaray and Nymburk traded baskets throughout intense third frame. The hosts fired from all guns in the fourth quarter. The hosts managed to cut the deficit. Joshua Shipp had the last laugh in the clash as his buzzer-beater send the fans on their feet. Joshua Shipp finished with 17 points and 13 boards for Galatasaray. Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) added 14 points in the victory. Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington) answered with 22 points for Nymburk. Pavel Pumprla (196-G-86) had 14 points in the loss.

Pepsi Caserta - Estudiantes 87-85
Pepsi Caserta cleared off on top of EuroCup Last 16 Group K. They held off Estudiantes to improve at 3-0 record worth the top position in the ladder. Estudiantes fell at 2-1 record just behind the Italian side. Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) scored 17 points to lead the winners. It was a close battle from start to finish. The hosts grabbed a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Pepsi Caserta got away midway through the second term. They posted a 44:32 lead but Estudiantes reacted adequately. The visitors sparked a 12:3 run that put them as close as three points at halftime 44:47. Nik Caner-Medley and Welsch put the visitors in front early in the third term. The Spaniards maintained the advantage and headed into the fourth period up by two points 63:61. Pepsi Caserta quickly organized a 10:0 rally to regain the lead. Estudiantes stayed close till the final seconds but Oliver missed a buzzer-beater and Pepsi Caserta sneaked to a narrow victory at the end. Jumaine Jones (202-F-79, college: Georgia) provided 15 points and 8 rebounds, while Timothy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) had 14 in the win. German Gabriel (207-C-80) replied with 20 points and 9 boards for Estudiantes. Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan) chipped in 16 points in defeat.

Group L
Panellinios - Benetton TV 75-83
Benetton posted the second win in EuroCup Last 16 stage. They defeated Panellinios in Greece to improve their position in Group L. Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia) banked 22 points to lead the effort. Panellinios in the meantime fell at 0-3 record at the bottom of the ladder. The visitors quickly jumped in front. They record a 5:0 lead. Benetton led throughout the bigger part of the first quarter and registered a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. Greg Brunner posted a 30:19 lead for Benetton in the second frame. The margin kept on growing in the period. The visitors piled up a 54:40 lead at the interval. Torin Francis (210-F-83, college: Notre Dame) fought hard for Panellinios. He dragged the home team within three points 63:66 in the third quarter. Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) secured a 68:63 lead at the final intermission. Benetton followed with a 7:0 run to take a 75:63 lead. Panellinios never recovered in the final stanza as Benetton rolled to the win at the end. Massimo Bulleri (188-G-77) nailed 12 points for Benetton. Hrvoje Peric had 11 points in the victory. Torin Francis replied with game-high 29 points and 10 rebounds for Panellinios. Steven Smith (203-F-83, college: La Salle) had 16 points in the loss.

Cajasol - ALBA 76-67
Cajasol claimed the third consecutive victory in EuroCup Last 16 round. They defeated visiting ALBA today. The victory gave Cajasol 3-0 record on top of Group L. Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) scored 17 points to lead the hosts. ALBA prevailed in the starting quarter. They outscored the hosts to post a narrow 20:19 lead at the first intermission. Things got even better for the visitors in the second term. ALBA enlarged the gap to 4 points 39:35 at the interval. But Cajasol turned things upside down in the third stanza. The hosts changed the complexion of the game. They limited the Berlin outfit to 13 points registering a comfortable 9-point lead at the final break. Tomas Satoransky (199-G/F-91) and Paul Davis led the hosts in the fourth quarter and Cajasol secured the winning outcome at the end. Tomas Satoransky provided 14 points, while Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79, college: Iona) and Mindaugas Katelynas (205-F-83, college: Chattanooga) added 10 points each in the win. Patrick Femerling (216-C-75, college: Washington) responded with 14 points for ALBA. Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) netted 11 points in defeat.



*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Standings Div.A (Men)
Preliminary Round Standings
Group A
1. U.Kingdom0-0
2. Spain0-0
3. Lithuania0-0
4. Poland0-0
5. Turkey0-0
Group B
1. France0-0
2. Germany0-0
3. Israel0-0
4. Italy0-0
5. Latvia0-0
6. Serbia0-0
Group C
1. Bosnia0-0
2. Croatia0-0
3. Greece0-0
4. FYR Macedon.0-0
5. Montenegro0-0
Group D
1. Belgium0-0
2. Bulgaria0-0
3. Georgia0-0
4. Russia0-0
5. Slovenia0-0
6. Ukraine0-0


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


Jamar Wilson claims Finnish Korisliiga weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American Jamar Wilson (185-G-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for Honka Espoo Playboys and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 31.
The 26-year old guard had the game-high 33 points adding three rebounds and seven assists for Honka in his team's victory, helping them to beat Kataja (#3, 20-11) 86-80. Honka maintains the 5th position in Finnish Korisliiga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Honka will need more victories to improve their 18-12 record. In the team's last game Wilson had a remarkable 53.8% from 2-point range. He turned to be Honka's top player in his first season with the team. University at Albany graduate has very impressive stats this year. Wilson is league's best scorer averaging so far 22.8ppg. Wilson is in league's top in and averages solid 59.4% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 36-year old American forward HL Coleman (202-F-74) of LrNMKY. Coleman impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 20 points and 15 rebounds. Bad luck as LrNMKY lost that game 83-98 to slightly higher-ranked Karhu (#9, 13-17). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. LrNMKY keeps 11th position. 24 lost games are too many comparing to just seven victories LrNMKY managed to get this year. Coleman is one of the most experienced players at LrNMKY and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was Eero Lehtinen (191-G-85) of Torpan Pojat Helsinki (#7). Lehtinen scored 23 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of ToPo, leading his team to a 112-70 easy win against the lower-ranked Tarmo (#12, 4-27). The chances of ToPo ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 16 games, recording just fifteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Lehtinen could help ToPo to bring them higher in the standings. Lehtinen has a very solid season. In 28 games in Finland he scored 8.5ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Todd Hendley (206-F-84) of Namika Lahti - 21 points and 11 rebounds
5. Ville Kaunisto (204-F-82) of Kouvot - 18 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Malik Moore (192-G-77) of LrNMKY - 26 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Jeremiah Wood (200-F-85) of Karhu - 17 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Walt Baxley (191-G-84) of Karhu - 23 points and 8 rebounds
9. Jared Newson (195-G/F-84) of Kataja - 19 points and 13 rebounds
10. Timo Heinonen (198-F-81) of ToPo - 23 points, 9 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)

Nelson's double-double lands him 1st Division Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
24-year old forward Derick Nelson (196-F-86, agency: ACMT) put on an amazing game in the last round for Lapuan Korikobrat and receives a Eurobasket.com 1st Division Player of the Week award for round 16.
He had a double-double of 32 points and 14 rebounds, while his team beat Ura Basket (#11, 6-10) 81-76. Lapua maintains the 3rd position in Finnish 1st Division. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Lapua will need more victories to improve their 11-5 record. In the team's last game Nelson had a remarkable 60.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Lapua's top player in his first season with the team. Oakland University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Nelson is league's best scorer averaging so far 24.6ppg. Nelson is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 12.6rpg) and averages solid 53.5% FGP and 42.3% from behind 3-point line.

Second best performed player last round was Treylon Manning (178-G) of Huima. He is a guard in his first season at Huima. In the last game Manning recorded impressive 35 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists. Of course he lead Huima to another comfortable win outscoring slightly higher-ranked Honka (#5, 9-7) 98-67. Huima's 7th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 8-8 record is not bad and everything may still change. Manning is a newcomer at Huima and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 22.3ppg (#2). He also recorded 6.1 assists per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward J'son Stamper (200-F/C-85, agency: JEMsports) of LoKoKo (#4). Stamper scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was a key player of LoKoKo, leading his team to a 85-74 win against the lower-ranked SayRi (#8, 6-9). LoKoKo needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 9 victories and 6 lost games. Stamper has a great season in Finland. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 21.6ppg (3rd best) and rebounds with 10.8rpg (8th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Pekka Setala (183-G-90) of BC Nokia - 28 points and 11 rebounds
5. Jeremy McCulloch (212-C-82) of FoKoPo - 22 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Tracy Robinson (201-F-86) of Jyvaskyla - 24 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Carlton Brown (198-F-79) of Namika II - 18 points, 15 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Rudolf Tejha Mua (201-G/F-80) of Kerava ET - 19 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Jamal Douglas (201-F-85) of Huima - 22 points and 9 rebounds
10. Sami Mantymaa (192-F-88) of Huima - 22 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists

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

KORISLIIGA: Damon Williams The Player of January - by Rauno Hurmalainen
American F Damon Williams (201-F-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) (Pyrinto, Tampere) has been named The Player of January. Pyrinto (25-6) won all eight contests in January and the key player was all the time D.Williams. He averaged 20,3 ppg - 9,9 rpg - 4,9 apg and 2,0 spg in 34,6 mpg. This season D.Williams has averaged 18,7 ppg and 9,4 rpg in 34:37 mpg and 31 games. He is playing his seventh season in Finland and has been three times the leading scorer in Korisliiga (Top League).

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


BCM Gravelines Dunkerque conquer Group K - by Eurobasket News
BCM Gravelines Dunkerque-BK Ventspils 74:70

BCM Gravelines Dunkerque conquer Group K of EuroChallenge registering another victory in the tournament. The French team grabbed a home 74:70 victory over BK Ventspils for 3-0 record.
It was tough start for both teams and both of them could take the lead after 10 minutes. The hosts however nailed 4 three-pointers at the very end to take 23:21 lead. Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83, college: Connecticut) later gave Ventspils 33:27 and Bankevics brought 45:32. Bokolo nailed another three-pointer to send the teams to the lockers at 42:38. BK Ventspils also won the third frame and after 18-14 increased the lead to 60:52. The game however was not over for the French outfit. They started the fourth period with 8-0 run as Johnson tied the game at 60:60. Mouhamed Sene (213-C-86) made it equal at 64:64 and later the hosts dominated the court. Cyril Akpomedah (203-F-79) brought the last points for the winners and Arturs Berzins (204-C-88, agency: FCM) made the final result in the game.
Ben Woodside (180-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Dakota St.) erupted with 27 points for the hosts and Mouhamed Sene had 15 points and 10 rebounds. Johnson netted 11, while Cyril Akpomedah scored 10. Rashad Anderson delivered 25 points for the Baltic side that dropped at 1-2 record. Arturs Berzins scored 15 and Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds.

BCM Gravelines Dunkerque: Ben Woodside 27, Mouhamed Sene 15+10 rebs, Johnson 11, Cyril Akpomedah 10
BK Ventspils: Rashad Anderson 25, Arturs Berzins 15, Saulius Kuzminskas 13+11 rebs


Budivelnyk hold off Le Mans - by Eurobasket News
Budivelnyk - Le Mans 67:61

Budivelnyk clinched the second win in EuroCup Last 16. They outscored Le Mans to improve at 2-1 record on top of Group J. William Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.) came up with 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead the hosts. Le Mans fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
The teams traded baskets throughout the opening stanza. Budivelnyk eked out a 16:13 lead after ten minutes. Lukashov and Ikovlev stretched the lead to 8 points in the second quarter. Alex Akcer stepped up for the French team cutting the deficit but Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) gave the home team a 31:27 lead at the interval. Budivelnyk extended the margin to 10 points in the third term. The Ukrainian vice-champions headed into the fourth quarter up by 11 points 52:41. Benjamin Dewar (196-G/F-81, college: L.Superior) fought bravely as he narrowed the margin to 6 points 55:61 midway through the fourth quarter. But William Keys answered from downtown and Budivelnyk hung on to win the game.
Zach Morley had 14 points, while Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) added 12 in the win. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) answered with 17 points for Le Mans. Benjamin Dewar had 14 points in the loss.

Budivelnyk: William Keys 16+10 boards, Zach Morley 14, Lamayne Wilson 12
Le Mans: Joao Paulo Batista 17, Benjamin Dewar 14


Limoges CSP hires Zare Markovski as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Limoges CSP officially hired Zare Markovski as the new Head Coach. The Macedonian specialist will lead the team until the end of the season. Limoges parted ways with Eric Girard after 5-11 record in ProA.
Zare Markovski most recently worked with Air Avelino. It was on season 2008/09. A year before that, he started with Armani Jeans Milano but was fired in October. With Virtus Bologna, Markovski reached FIBA EuroCup Semifinals in 2007. At the same season they played in the SerieA Finals. From 2003 to 2005, Markovski worked with Air Avelino and it was his first stint with the club. In the past, Markovski was coaching in Switzerland. He led Lugano Snakes to LNA title and Swiss Cup in 2001. He also has experience from Darussafaka, Kavadarci and Sassari.

Poitiers keeps Antonio Grant - by Eurobasket News
Poitiers announced signing of contract extension with Antonio Grant (198-F-76, college: S.Carolina). The player will stay for rest of the season.
Antonio Grant joined Poitiers in December from the Lithuanian team Neptunas. He appeared five times in ProA averaging 10 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists. Almost the same numbers he had for two Baltic League games with Neptunas. Grant played for JSA Bordeaux Basket last season. Actually, he joined them in February registering 10.4 ppg, 6.3 rpg and 1.6 apg for 13 games. He started last season with Taiwan Mobile Leopards. Antonio Grant spent some time with Nanterre on season 2008/09. In the past, he was a member of Split, Siauliai, Cholet, Cherkasy Monkeys and Spartak St Petersburg.

*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Best players of FYR Macedonian Superleague round 15 - by Eurobasket News
Experienced Serbian Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80, agency: BeoExcell) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Feni Indistrija and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15.
The 30-year old center had the game-high 25 points adding seven rebounds for Feni Indistrija in his team's victory, helping them to outclass Torus Skopje (#4, 9-6) with 27-point margin 98-71. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Feni Indistrija to consolidate first place in the FYR Macedonian Superleague. Feni Indistrija has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 14-1. It's Knezevic's second year at Feni Indistrija and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Knezevic has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (7th best: 7.5rpg) and averages solid 72.7% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 22-year old guard Marjan Mladenovic (180-G-88) of Ultimate Basket. Mladenovic impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 22 points and 10 assists. Bad luck as Ultimate Basket was edged by the higher-ranked ABA Strumica (#6, 6-9) 82-79. Ultimate Basket managed to keep the same 9th spot in the standings. 11 lost games are too many comparing to just four victories Ultimate Basket managed to get this year. Mladenovic is a newcomer at Ultimate Basket and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was Gorge Jovanovic of Lirija (#5). Jovanovic scored 24 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was a key player of Lirija, leading his team to a 82-77 win against slightly lower-ranked Ovce Pole (#7, 5-10). The chances of Lirija ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 9 games, recording just six victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Jovanovic could help Lirija to bring them higher in the standings. The season just started for Jovanovic as he played only first game. But it already looks like he can be team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jove Kurciev (197-F-87) of Ultimate Basket - 21 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Pero Blazevski (200-C-72) of Rabotnicki - 20 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists
6. John Chappell (208-C) of ABA Strumica - 15 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Branko Janeski (203-F-87) of Ultimate Basket - 25 points and 6 rebounds
8. Ivica Dimcevski (192-G-89) of Torus Skopje - 21 points and 6 rebounds
9. Dime Tasovski (200-F-80) of Feni Indistrija - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Vladimir Filipovic (195-G-85) of Ovce Pole - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists

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

Limoges CSP hires Zare Markovski as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
Limoges CSP officially hired Zare Markovski as the new Head Coach. The Macedonian specialist will lead the team until the end of the season. Limoges parted ways with Eric Girard after 5-11 record in ProA.
Zare Markovski most recently worked with Air Avelino. It was on season 2008/09. A year before that, he started with Armani Jeans Milano but was fired in October. With Virtus Bologna, Markovski reached FIBA EuroCup Semifinals in 2007. At the same season they played in the SerieA Finals. From 2003 to 2005, Markovski worked with Air Avelino and it was his first stint with the club. In the past, Markovski was coaching in Switzerland. He led Lugano Snakes to LNA title and Swiss Cup in 2001. He also has experience from Darussafaka, Kavadarci and Sassari.

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


Ronald Ross (MBC Wolves) Postgame Thoughts To 87-79 Win Against Phoenix Hagen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Ronald Ross (188-G-83, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Texas Tech) is a 27 year old 188cm guard playing his first season for MBC. He is originally from Hobbs New Mexico and played at Texas Tech from 2001-2005. In his senior year, he averaged 17.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.0apg, 2.6spg, FGP: 51.9%, 3Pts: 43% and reached the NCA Sweet 16. He started his professional career with Univer Castelletto Ticino (Italy-Lega2) and then moved on to the CBA in 2006-2007 for Butte Daredevils playing 48 games averaging 15.2ppg, 4.2rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.4spg), FGP: 49%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 74.2% and in 2007 for the Albany Patroons (USBL, starting five) playing 21 games: Score-3 (17.4ppg), 3.0rpg, Assists-4 (4.0apg), Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 47.6%, 3FGP: 41.4%, FT: 84.2%. In 2007-2008, he played for ENBW Ludwigsburg playing 34 games and averaging 14.4ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.3apg, Steals-2 (1.7spg), 2FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 77.9% reaching the cup final in 2008. In 2008-2009 he started in Israel before moving on to the Artland Dragons playing 12 games and averaging 15.8ppg, 3.3rpg, 4.0apg, 2.0spg, FGP: 59.0%, 3PT: 57.1%, FT: 70.0%. Last season for the Artland Dragons, he played 12 games: 10.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 56.9%, 3PT: 18.8%, FT: 83.0%; German League: 32 games: 11.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.2apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.4%, 3PT: 27.1%, FT: 75.7%. He spoke to eurobasket after the victory in Hagen.

How good did it feel snapping the MBC 4 game losing streak in Hagen?


It felt good, but even better to see how we stuck together and won in a difficult atmosphere like Hagen.


Michael Jordan left MBC and helped Giessen win and MBC also won. I guess the departure of Jordan didnt really faze the team?

We lost Mike, but we got Radenko and Johnnie back so it's not an issue of did it faze us or not without him. It was more like of an adjustment that was made that turned out beneficial for the team.

MBC had the huge 35-20 lead at halftime. What was giving Phoenix Hagen the biggest problems with the MBC defense?


The coach had a good defensive game plan going into the game and we were able to execute it with a high level of intensity for most of the game.

Phoenix Hagen fought back in the third quarter and was trailing only 59-49. What was giving MBC the biggest problems in their comeback?

We knew they would make a run, but unfortunately it was a little bigger than what we expected. They knocked down some shots and made some big plays to get themselves back into the game.

In OT, MBC went out on a 10-2 run to secure the win. What was key in this run for getting the road win?

We had some players step up and play with poise in OT. They made some big plays on both ends of the court and controlled the momentum until the end.

Richard Schields was top MBC scorer with 21 points. Will he be a new scoring option in the future?


I think he will definitely be an option. Not that he never was though, he hasn't been here long so he just needed a little time to get into his groove.

How was it playing against Mark Dorris who was close to a triple double with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists?

It was cool. He played well and he was a real spark plug for his team throughout the entire game.

It seems that Lebron James and Dwayne Wade at times are playing to much much 2 against 5 instead of involving their teammates. Where will the journey of the Miami Heat end this season?

They are both successful players that have been to the top before so I don't doubt that they will figure it out. It would be different if they were rookies and wet behind the ears, but they're not. (Sorry I'm Country) lol...So long story short, it's their 1st year and they'll be just fine and I'm not even a Heat fan.


What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Sherlock Holmes


Thanks for the chat Ron


John Bynum (TBB Trier) It Seemed Like We Just Couldnt Get Over The Hump Against Alba Berlin - 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 after the 75-69 loss at home.

How much has Alba Berlin improved since the first loss in Berlin in November?


In my eyes they are a better team now, they are completely different team now. They took advantage of our mistakes tonight and showed why they are in the top 4 in the BBL

Alba Berlin had the slim 43-37 lead at halftime. What was giving TBB Trier the biggest problems at halftime?

I dont think we handled their full court pressure well and we turned the ball over too much. Against a team like that we have to take care of the ball and take every posession like it is the last one of the game.

In the second half, Alba Berlin was able to keep the lead at keep TBB Trier at bay. Why was TBB Trier unable to get the lead?

It seemed like we just couldnt get over the hump. Everytime we needed to make a play we didnt and when we didnt they took advantage of it and kept us at a distance.

Alba Berlin kept TBB Trier under 70 points. What was missing in the TBB Trier defense to keep Alba Berlin at around 65 points?

Julius Jenkins stepped up and Derrick Allen played well too. They made plays for them and stepped up. We turned the ball over too much cause everytime we turned over the ball that was one less shot to get up and maybe score as well

German national player Heiko Schaffartzik is fighting to get into the rotation. He scored two points in five minutes. Do you think he will get his minutes with time or sour on the bench like other players?

It will take him time to get into the rotation but at the same time it could happen quicker than usual. It is a new coach and a new system but I think he is a good player and he will be on the court soon enough.

Julius Jenkins was in the zone with 28 points. What was his biggest strength on this day besides his scoring touch?


He made plays for them when they needed a basket or something positive happened for them on the offensive end. He is one of the best in the leauge and he showed why today.

It seems that Lebron James and Dwayne Wade at times are playing to much much 2 against 5 instead of involving their teammates. Where will the journey of the Miami Heat end this season?

I think it is just in their nature to play like this but Lebron is in double digits in assists just about every night, so I dont think that it is about being selfish. I think they are just trying to make plays and they are not playing bad basketball at all. I dont think they will get past Beantown in the playoffs but if they do I think they have a good chance at beating LA in the finals.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?


The last Dvd I saw was half Baked again... lol


Thanks John for chat

Cajasol march on in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol - ALBA 76:67

Cajasol claimed the third consecutive victory in EuroCup Last 16 round. They defeated visiting ALBA today. The victory gave Cajasol 3-0 record on top of Group L. Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) scored 17 points to lead the hosts.
ALBA prevailed in the starting quarter. They outscored the hosts to post a narrow 20:19 lead at the first intermission. Things got even better for the visitors in the second term. ALBA enlarged the gap to 4 points 39:35 at the interval. But Cajasol turned things upside down in the third stanza. The hosts changed the complexion of the game. They limited the Berlin outfit to 13 points registering a comfortable 9-point lead at the final break. Tomas Satoransky (199-G/F-91) and Paul Davis led the hosts in the fourth quarter and Cajasol secured the winning outcome at the end. Tomas Satoransky provided 14 points, while Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79, college: Iona) and Mindaugas Katelynas (205-F-83, college: Chattanooga) added 10 points each in the win. Patrick Femerling (216-C-75, college: Washington) responded with 14 points for ALBA. Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) netted 11 points in defeat.

Cajasol: Paul Davis 17, Tomas Satoransky 14, Tariq Kirksay 10, Mindaugas Katelynas 10
ALBA: Patrick Femerling 14, Derrick Allen 11


Goettingen steal valuable win in Thessaloniki - by Eurobasket News
Aris - Goettingen 82:84

Goettingen celebrated the second win in EuroCup Last 16 round. They pip Aris in Greece to climb at 2-1 record in Group J. Mike Scott (203-F-86, college: Kent St.) knocked down 18 points to lead the visitors. Aris fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
The teams stayed close early in the encounter before Bobby Brown allowed Aris to grab a 22:16 lead after ten minutes. Sloukas and Borovnjak gave the hosts a 9-point buffer midway through the second term. Bobby Brown soon boosted the margin to double figures. Goettingen quickly responded with nine straight points to stay close. Aris entered the second half up by just four points 43:39. Kosta Charalampidis (189-G-76) nailed 5 points as Aris started to take over in the third term. The hosts soon grabbed a massive 70:52 lead looking to cruise to the victory. But the German team stopped the rot. They went on a stunning 19:0 run to eke out a 71:70 lead. The teams exchanged baskets for some time after so it all came down to the final seconds. Kosta Charalampidis and Tapoutos missed key shots for Aris and Goettingen escaped with an important win at the end.
Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) netted 16 points and collected 8 rebounds for Geottingen. Robert Kulawick (191-G-86, agency: Court Side) contributed 15 points in the win. Kosta Charalampidis answered with 18 points for Aris. P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) finished with 17 points and 9 boards in the loss.

Aris: Kosta Charalampidis 18, P.J. Tucker 17
Goettingen: Mike Scott 18, Jason Boone 16, Robert Kulawick 15


Science City Jena Sign Eric Vierneisel - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Science City Jena have reacted to the injury to 24 year old American Jamil Tucker (206-F-87, college: Virginia) who suffered a severe knee injury and wont return this season, by bringing in Eric Vierneisel (201-F-85, college: California) who got a contract until the end of the season. Vierneisel is a 25 year old 201cm forward that was born in Chicago and grew up in Algonquin, Illinois. He played NCAA ball at the university of California from 2004-2008. In his senior year, he played 32 games: 5.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, FGP: 36.8%, 3Pts: 29.8%, FT: 73.1%. He started his professional basketball career in 2009-2010 playing for Taranaki Mountain Airs (New Zealand-NBL): 15 games: 18.3ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 71.4% and USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 29 games: 11.1ppg, 3.6rpg, FGP: 58.6%, 3PT: 43.0%, FT: 76.5%. This season, he played for The Gloria Giants Duesseldorf playing 12 BEKO BBL games averaging 4,4ppg and 1,7rpg. He shot 45% from the three point line.

Source: Science City Jena

Dane Watts (Walter Tigers Tuebingen) Joe Herber Hit Some Big Shots Down The Stretch And Had Big Post Ups To Exploit Mismatches In the Bonn Win - 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 afte rthe 82-70 win on the road against The Telekom Baskets Bonn.

How did you spend the Allstar break? What wa sthe nicest experience that you had in this time?

I was back in the states with my family. I got to go back to my college and watch a game for the first time since I graduated, it was a great experience to go back as an alum. Getting to see all my family in the middle of the year was a real blessing for both sides, glad that I had the opportunity to go home.

Congrats on the 82-70 win in Bonn. How pleased were you with how well Tuebingen performed the game plan from Igor Perovic?

I thought that we did much better in the second half, we gave them too many open shots and transition opportunities in the first quarter and had to battle back.

The Telekom Baskets Bonn had the 30-25 lead at halftime. Why was Tuebingen unable to muster more offensive production?

I think getting back into a game rhythm after the break and seemed like 1/2 our team was sick this week so I was glad that we got it together in the 2nd.

What did coach Perovic tell the team to do better at halftime?

Find Hunt in transition, he made most of his shots early to give them the lead. Also to control our offense to limit their transition.

In the second half The Walter Tigers Tuebingen scored a massive 57 points. What was working better and what adjustments did the club make?

I think the team was more comfortable, its hard to mimic game speed and stay in a rhythm after a lay off. We had missed some shots in the first half that we made down the stretch that helped seal the victory, was good to see our team continue to shoot them and stay confident.

How challenging was it playing against Tim Ohlbrecht? He had no points in 23 minutes?

We both had some early foul trouble, that always makes things different when you know you have 2 fouls in the first quarter. He is a good shooter that is long and active, like I said, tough to get a rhythm with early fouls sometimes.

Johannes Herber was in the starting five and scored 12 points. What is his biggest attribute in the starting lineup when he gets to start?

Joe is a smart player that reads the game well, he has been growing every game this year getting back to basketball again. He hit some big shots down the stretch and also had some big post ups that helped exploit a mismatch.

It seems that Lebron James and Dwayne Wade at times are playing to much much 2 against 5 instead of involving their teammates. Where will the journey of the Miami Heat end this season?

I think that they have shown they can dominate and that they can also struggle mightily when 1 or 2 of them are down. Health will determine a lot it seems and also if the perimeter shooting can get hot in the playoffs. Could be conference finals or early exit.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Sleepers, older movie with Robert De Niro

Thanks Dane for the chat

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


Goettingen steal valuable win in Thessaloniki - by Eurobasket News
Aris - Goettingen 82:84

Goettingen celebrated the second win in EuroCup Last 16 round. They pip Aris in Greece to climb at 2-1 record in Group J. Mike Scott (203-F-86, college: Kent St.) knocked down 18 points to lead the visitors. Aris fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
The teams stayed close early in the encounter before Bobby Brown allowed Aris to grab a 22:16 lead after ten minutes. Sloukas and Borovnjak gave the hosts a 9-point buffer midway through the second term. Bobby Brown soon boosted the margin to double figures. Goettingen quickly responded with nine straight points to stay close. Aris entered the second half up by just four points 43:39. Kosta Charalampidis (189-G-76) nailed 5 points as Aris started to take over in the third term. The hosts soon grabbed a massive 70:52 lead looking to cruise to the victory. But the German team stopped the rot. They went on a stunning 19:0 run to eke out a 71:70 lead. The teams exchanged baskets for some time after so it all came down to the final seconds. Kosta Charalampidis and Tapoutos missed key shots for Aris and Goettingen escaped with an important win at the end.
Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) netted 16 points and collected 8 rebounds for Geottingen. Robert Kulawick (191-G-86, agency: Court Side) contributed 15 points in the win. Kosta Charalampidis answered with 18 points for Aris. P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas) finished with 17 points and 9 boards in the loss.

Aris: Kosta Charalampidis 18, P.J. Tucker 17
Goettingen: Mike Scott 18, Jason Boone 16, Robert Kulawick 15


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Steven SMITH
  Panellinios
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Smith, Panellinios18.7 
 2. Palacio, Kavala16.5 
 3. Baxter, Ilysiakos16.4 
 4. Marshall, PAOK16.0 
 5. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos15.0 
 6. Grundy, AEK14.5 
 7. Dikoudis, AEK14.3 
 8. Kalathis, VAP K.14.1 
 9. Thompson, Ikaros14.0 
 10. Everett, Iraklis13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Steven SMITH
  Panellinios
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Smith, Panellinios10.7 
 2. Simmons, Kavala9.7 
 3. Thompson, Ikaros8.9 
 4. Kalathis, VAP K.8.3 
 5. Tucker, Aris7.9 
 6. Looby, Peristeri GS7.8 
 7. Papadopoulos, PAOK7.4 
 8. Bagaric, Marousi7.2 
 9. Bourousis, Olympiakos6.7 
 10. Elonu, Panionios6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Vassilis SPANOULIS
  Olympiakos
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Spanoulis, Olympiakos6.5 
 2. Jordan, VAP K.5.3 
 3. Thompson, Ilysi.5.0 
 4. Teodosic, Olympiakos4.5 
 5. Diamantidis, Panath.4.5 
 6. Everett, Iraklis4.4 
 7. Palacio, Kavala3.9 
 8. Xanthopoulos, Panell.3.9 
 9. Brown, Aris3.7 
 10. Kojadinovic, Marousi3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Terrell EVERETT
  Cibona
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Everett, Iraklis2.4 
 2. Xanthopoulos, Panell.2.0 
 3. Marshall, PAOK2.0 
 4. Baxter, Ilysiakos2.0 
 5. Grundy, AEK1.9 
 6. Papaloukas, Olymp.1.8 
 7. Diamantidis, Panath.1.7 
 8. Kojadinovic, Marousi1.7 
 9. Jamon Lukas, Olymp.1.6 
 10. Kalathis, VAP K.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Dalibor BAGARIC
  Marousi
  (217-C-80)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Bagaric, Marousi2.1 
 2. Simmons, Kavala1.9 
 3. Elonu, Panionios1.7 
 4. Thompson, Ikaros1.5 
 5. Dunston, Aris0.9 
 6. Nesterovic, Olymp.0.8 
 7. Harissis, VAP K.0.7 
 8. Looby, Peristeri GS0.7 
 9. Vougioukas, Panath.0.7 
 10. Scott, Peristeri GS0.6 


Devin Smith leads Benetton past Panellinios - by Eurobasket News
Panellinios - Benetton 75:83

Benetton posted the second win in EuroCup Last 16 stage. They defeated Panellinios in Greece to improve their position in Group L. Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia) banked 22 points to lead the effort. Panellinios in the meantime fell at 0-3 record at the bottom of the ladder.
The visitors quickly jumped in front. They record a 5:0 lead. Benetton led throughout the bigger part of the first quarter and registered a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. Greg Brunner posted a 30:19 lead for Benetton in the second frame. The margin kept on growing in the period. The visitors piled up a 54:40 lead at the interval. Torin Francis (210-F-83, college: Notre Dame) fought hard for Panellinios. He dragged the home team within three points 63:66 in the third quarter. Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) secured a 68:63 lead at the final intermission. Benetton followed with a 7:0 run to take a 75:63 lead. Panellinios never recovered in the final stanza as Benetton rolled to the win at the end. Massimo Bulleri (188-G-77) nailed 12 points for Benetton. Hrvoje Peric had 11 points in the victory. Torin Francis replied with game-high 29 points and 10 rebounds for Panellinios. Steven Smith (203-F-83, college: La Salle) had 16 points in the loss.

Panellinios: Torin Francis 29+10 boards, Steven Smith 16
Benetton: Devin Smith 22, Massimo Bulleri 12, Hrvoje Peric 11


*****************************************************
  HOLLAND   


One week later - by Glenn Stokes
Hello world and once again welcome to my blog!!!! If this is your first time, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Glenn Stokes (170-G-76, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: American) and I am the point guard for BS Weert, a team in the Dutch basketball League in Holland.

As you all know, I have been dealing wih a groin injury for the past few months... Last week I went to see a specialist for this injury and although the visit was very informative and helpful, I must say the procedure was VERY painful.. The Dr. was very educated about this injury due to the fact that he works with soccer players from Holland and abroad, therefore he knew exactly what the problem was and he had the solution to help speed up my recovery. He explained to me that the problem was I had some torn fibers in my leg/groin area and because some were torn and others were not there was some kind of conflict between them. He said I have been doing the right things as far as getting treatment, resting and stretching because that is the only thing you can do to recover from this kind of injury.

After asking a few questions, explaining the procedure he was going to do, he then asked if it was possible to stay away from making explosive movements for 14 day.... My reply knowing that we have a game the next day and will have a 4 game stretch in 11 days, 'NO, its not possible... I may take it easy in practice but I MUST PLAY'! I told him that I can deal with the pain, my only concern was if by playing and making explosive movements will it negate the treatment... He simply said that the worst case scenerio would be for me to come back after 14 days for another treatment. Finally I lay on the table, while one guy is holding my good leg in place not allowing me to bend or move it the Doctor pulls my bad leg back over my head and over to the side and back to straight ( basically in a SLOW circular motion, breaking or tearing all of the fibers in my leg/groin area).. He did this 4 times until you heard no more cracking. OOOUCH!!! He said by breaking all of the fibers up the healing process will begin with no conflicting...

After playing in two games and finally back to practicing, I'm starting to feel a little more flexibility in my leg which will allow me to make more moves and be more agile....

We have a cup game vs. Bergen Op Zoom.... So stay tuned for an update on my injury and my teams success. Until then I'm signing out... Thanks again for taking the time out to read my blog and please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or topics to be addressed and discussed through my blog.



*****************************************************
  HUNGARY   


A Division Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Robert JARVIS
  Soproni
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 25
 1. Jarvis, Salgotarjani25.0 
 2. Marshall, Marso-Va.21.2 
 3. Bell, Kormend21.1 
 4. Doyne, Falco-Szova21.0 
 5. El-Amin, PVSK P.20.4 
 6. Townes, Soproni19.9 
 7. Wilson, Kaposvari19.8 
 8. Sales, Atomeromu19.5 
 9. Cunningham, Kapos.19.1 
 10. Brooks, Soproni18.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brooks SALES
  Atomeromu
  (208-C/F-80)
  Avg: 11.9
 1. Sales, Atomeromu11.9 
 2. Townes, Soproni11.2 
 3. Werner, Kaposvari10.0 
 4. Egemonye, PVSK P.9.4 
 5. Jones, Albacomp9.3 
 6. Gosa, Falco-Szova9.1 
 7. Bell, Kormend9.0 
 8. Bader, Szolnok8.5 
 9. Cunningham, Kapos.8.4 
 10. Mekongo, FS Debre.8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Lorenzo WILLIAMS
  ZTE KK
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.1
 1. Williams, ZTE K.7.1 
 2. Kelley, Soproni6.5 
 3. Savic, Marso-Vagep6.4 
 4. Trotter, Szolnok6.3 
 5. Simon, Albacomp6.1 
 6. Kalman, Falco-Sz.5.9 
 7. Moore, Kormend5.5 
 8. Glavinic, PVSK P.5.2 
 9. Horvath, Szolnok4.4 
 10. Wilson, Kaposvari4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Brane SAVIC
  Marso-Vagep
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Savic, Marso-Vagep3.6 
 2. Hanga, Albacomp3.0 
 3. Marshall, Marso-Va.2.8 
 4. Trotter, Szolnok2.6 
 5. Clark, Szolnok2.4 
 6. Werner, Kaposvari2.4 
 7. Williams, ZTE K.2.4 
 8. Kaman, ZTE K.2.4 
 9. Sales, Atomeromu2.4 
 10. Singletary, FS Debre.2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ivory CLARK
  Szolnok
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Clark, Szolnok2.6 
 2. Townes, Soproni2.0 
 3. McKenzie, Szedeak1.5 
 4. Egemonye, PVSK P.1.2 
 5. Czigler, Marso-Va.1.2 
 6. Keller, Albacomp1.1 
 7. Langford, FS Debre.1.0 
 8. Sales, Atomeromu0.9 
 9. Orsulic, Kecskemeti0.9 
 10. Morgen, Atomeromu0.8 


*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   


Standings - BSL
Premier League Standings
 1. Maccabi T-A 15-1 
 2. Hapoel J-M 10-6 
 3. Galil Gilboa 9-7 
 4. Bnei Hasharon 9-7 
 5. Maccabi Rishon 8-7 
 6. Maccabi Ashdod 8-8 
 7. Hapoel Holon 7-9 
 8. Elitzur Netanya 5-11 
 9. Maccabi Haifa 4-11 
 10. Ironi Ashkelon 4-12 


Premier League Round 16: Maccabi Rishon defeats Hapoel J-M in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 16 in the Premier League took place in Rishon Le-Zion. This game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of much higher ranked Hapoel J-M (10-6) to sixth ranked Maccabi Rishon (8-7) 83-80 on Sunday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Hapoel J-M. Hapoel J-M trailed by 17 points after 3 quarters before a 28-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 80-83 at the end of the game. Maccabi Rishon had a 29-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Dwayne Mitchell (194-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists and forward Aaron McGhee (202-79, college: Oklahoma) who added 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. At the losing side guard Dion Dowell (198-85, college: Houston) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. Maccabi Rishon have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place. Hapoel J-M at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. Maccabi Rishon are looking forward to face Maccabi Haifa (#9) at home in the next round. Hapoel J-M will play against Hapoel Holon (#7) and is hoping to win this game.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Hod Hasharon. 3rd ranked host Bnei Hasharon (9-7) was smashed by first ranked Maccabi T-A (15-1) 113-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bnei Hasharon. The winners were led by Greek center Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-85) who scored that evening 22 points (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) and Doron Perkins supported him with 18 points and 4 assists. Maccabi T-A's coach David Blatt felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 8 points and 4 assists by Puerto Rican guard Filiberto Rivera (187-82, college: UTEP) did not help to save the game for Bnei Hasharon. Maccabi T-A have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 15-1 record. Bnei Hasharon at the other side keeps the third place with seven games lost. They share the position with Galil Gilboa. Maccabi T-A will play against Maccabi Ashdod (#6) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Bnei Hasharon will play against Galil Gilboa and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Maccabi Haifa managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the four-game losing streak on Sunday night. This time they won against fourth-ranked Maccabi Ashdod 95-81. Germaine Jackson fired 20 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. Maccabi Haifa's coach Ami Nawi used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Meir Tapiro produced 18 points and 9 rebounds for lost side. Maccabi Haifa (4-11) moved-up to ninth place. Maccabi Ashdod lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the sixth position with eight games lost. Maccabi Haifa will meet higher ranked Maccabi Rishon (#5) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Maccabi Ashdod will play against the league's leader Maccabi T-A having rather not much hope for a victory.
The game in Netanya was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Galil Gilboa (9-7) played at the court of 8th ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-11). Galil Gilboa managed to secure a 6-point victory 72-66. It was a very good performance for Gal Mekel who helped to win the game recording 7 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Bnei Hasharon. Elitzur Netanya at the other side keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Galil Gilboa's next round opponent will be Bnei Hasharon (#4) in Hod Hasharon. Elitzur Netanya will play on the road against Ironi Ashkelon (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 16 Hapoel Holon won against Ironi Ashkelon on the opponent's court 89-78. Bottom-ranked Maccabi Haifa unfortunately lost to Hapoel Holon in a home game 73-77.

Ironi Ashkelon - Hapoel Holon 78-89

Rather expected game when 9th ranked Ironi Ashkelon (4-12) was defeated at home by seventh ranked Hapoel Holon (7-9) 89-78. It looked good early as Ironi Ashkelon took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Hapoel Holon had a 16-13 second period charge getting the lead and Ironi Ashkelon was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 78-89. Hapoel Holon dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Ironi Ashkelon's 34. It was a very good performance for power forward Nir Cohen (202-81, college: San Diego, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 9 rebounds. American forward Rich Melzer (203-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal., agency: Court Side) contributed with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Hapoel Holon's coach Danny Franco allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The former international guard Dror Hagag (178-78, agency: Avi Zilberman) replied with 13 points and 7 assists and guard Gur Porat (197-79) added 14 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Ironi Ashkelon. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Hapoel Holon maintains seventh position with 7-9 record. Ironi Ashkelon lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom place with 12 games lost. Hapoel Holon's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Hapoel J-M in Jerusalem and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Ironi Ashkelon will play at home against Elitzur Netanya (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ironi Ashkelon: G.Porat 14+6reb+2ast, D.Hagag 13+4reb+7ast, J.Gibson 13+2ast, E.Ibekwe 12+6reb, D.Farmer 12+2reb+1ast, R.Turner 9+5reb
Hapoel Holon: N.Cohen 18+9reb+3ast, R.Melzer 17+11reb+1ast, R.Hite 15+1reb+1ast, E.Campbell 12+3reb+1ast, M.Roth 11+4reb+5ast, K.Powell 9+3reb+2ast
gschID: 105495


Bnei Hasharon - Maccabi T-A 67-113

The game between Top Four teams took place in Hod Hasharon. 3rd ranked host Bnei Hasharon (9-7) was smashed by first ranked Maccabi T-A (15-1) 113-67. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bnei Hasharon. The game without a history. Maccabi T-A led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 72 of its points in the paint compared to Bnei Hasharon's 34. They outrebounded Bnei Hasharon 34-19 including a 25-11 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Maccabi T-A especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.6 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 32 assists comparing to just 15 passes made by Bnei Hasharon's players. The winners were led by Greek center Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-85) who scored that evening 22 points (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) and American guard Doron Perkins (188-83, college: Santa Clara) supported him with 18 points and 4 assists. Five Maccabi T-A players scored in double figures. Maccabi T-A's coach David Blatt felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 8 points and 4 assists by Puerto Rican guard Filiberto Rivera (187-82, college: UTEP) did not help to save the game for Bnei Hasharon. American forward Lee Nailon (204-75, college: TCU) added 10 points for lost side. Maccabi T-A have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 15-1 record. Bnei Hasharon at the other side keeps the third place with seven games lost. They share the position with Galil Gilboa. Maccabi T-A will play against Maccabi Ashdod (#6) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Bnei Hasharon will play against Galil Gilboa and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bnei Hasharon: D.Grunfeld 11, L.Nailon 10+3reb+2ast, S.Shason 8+1reb+1ast, R.Steele 8+1reb+4ast, F.Rivera 8+4reb+4ast, E.Katz 6+1ast
Maccabi T-A: S.Schortsanitis 22+4reb+2ast, D.Perkins 18+4reb+4ast, L.Eliyahu 15+8reb+3ast, C.Eidson 14+2reb+5ast, R.Hendrix 13+4reb, G.Pnini 12+5ast
gschID: 105496


Maccabi Haifa - Maccabi Ashdod 95-81

Bottom-ranked Maccabi Haifa managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the four-game losing streak on Sunday night. This time they won against fourth-ranked Maccabi Ashdod 95-81. The game was mostly controlled by Maccabi Haifa. Maccabi Ashdod managed to win third quarter 23-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Maccabi Haifa looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Maccabi Ashdod's players. American guard Germaine Jackson (195-76, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Interperformances) fired 20 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. The other American import forward Marco Killingsworth (203-82, college: Indiana) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Maccabi Haifa's coach Ami Nawi used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. The former international guard Meir Tapiro (194-75, agency: Avi Zilberman) produced 18 points and 9 rebounds and American swingman Josh Carter (201-88, college: Texas A&M) added 18 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Maccabi Haifa (4-11) moved-up to ninth place. Maccabi Ashdod lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the sixth position with eight games lost. Maccabi Haifa will meet higher ranked Maccabi Rishon (#5) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Maccabi Ashdod will play against the league's leader Maccabi T-A having rather not much hope for a victory.
Top scorers:
Maccabi Ashdod: R.Bradley 19+4reb+3ast, J.Carter 18+8reb+2ast, M.Tapiro 18+9reb+2ast, J.Duncan 13+5reb+1ast, J.Martin 4+4reb+1ast, D.Johnson 4+2reb
Maccabi Haifa: M.Killingsworth 20+6reb+2ast, G.Jackson 20+5reb+8ast, F.Robinson 17+4reb+5ast, S.Landesberg 15+4ast, E.Kadir 9+7reb+5ast, A.Ben-Chimol 8+4reb+2ast
gschID: 105497


Elitzur Netanya - Galil Gilboa 66-72

The game in Netanya was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Galil Gilboa (9-7) played at the court of 8th ranked Elitzur Netanya (5-11). Galil Gilboa managed to secure a 6-point victory 72-66. The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. It was a very good performance for international guard Gal Mekel (195-88, college: Wichita St.) who helped to win the game recording 7 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. American forward Tyler Wilkerson (203, college: Marshall) contributed with 12 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Galil Gilboa players scored in double figures. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American power forward Elton Brown (206-83, college: Virginia, agency: Impact Basketball) replied with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Romeo Travis (201-84, college: Akron) added 21 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Elitzur Netanya. Defending champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Bnei Hasharon. Elitzur Netanya at the other side keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Galil Gilboa's next round opponent will be Bnei Hasharon (#4) in Hod Hasharon. Elitzur Netanya will play on the road against Ironi Ashkelon (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Netanya: R.Travis 21+8reb, E.Brown 20+12reb, A.Banks 12+1ast, S.Brener 6+7reb+10ast, C.Watson 4+3reb, T.Washam 3+3reb
Galil Gilboa: J.McClinton 13+2ast, W.Carter 13+4reb+2ast, C.Fells 12+3reb, T.Wilkerson 12+6reb+2ast, G.Mekel 7+8reb+6ast, R.Green 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 105493


Maccabi Rishon - Hapoel J-M 83-80

The most exciting game of round 16 in the Premier League took place in Rishon Le-Zion. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of much higher ranked Hapoel J-M (10-6) to sixth ranked Maccabi Rishon (8-7) 83-80 on Sunday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Hapoel J-M. Hapoel J-M trailed by 17 points after 3 quarters before a 28-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 80-83 at the end of the game. Maccabi Rishon had a 29-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Dwayne Mitchell (194-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points, 12 rebounds and 7 assists and forward Aaron McGhee (202-79, college: Oklahoma) who added 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. At the losing side guard Dion Dowell (198-85, college: Houston) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and guard Jason Rich (191-86) scored 17 points and 8 rebounds. Five Maccabi Rishon and four Hapoel J-M players scored in double figures. Maccabi Rishon have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place. Hapoel J-M at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. Maccabi Rishon are looking forward to face Maccabi Haifa (#9) at home in the next round. Hapoel J-M will play against Hapoel Holon (#7) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Hapoel J-M: J.Rich 17+8reb+1ast, D.Dowell 17+10reb+2ast, W.Solomon 12+3reb+1ast, L.Hakmon 10+1reb+2ast, Y.Naimy 9+1reb+2ast, Y.Ohayon 7+3reb+5ast
Maccabi Rishon: A.McGhee 21+7reb+4ast, N.Hanochi 20+3reb+2ast, D.Mitchell 14+12reb+7ast, I.Swann 12+5reb+3ast, R.Morgan 12+4reb+1ast, I.Nesterenko 4+2reb
gschID: 105494


Round 10
Maccabi Haifa - Hapoel Holon 73-77

Rather predictable result when seventh ranked Hapoel Holon (7-9) defeated on the road 10th ranked Maccabi Haifa (4-11) 77-73. It looked good early as Maccabi Haifa took an 5-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Hapoel Holon had a 24-14 second period charge getting the lead and Maccabi Haifa was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 73-77. Hapoel Holon players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Quite impressive performance for American forward Rich Melzer (203-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal., agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 6 rebounds. The other American import forward Eric Campbell (199-76, college: Spring Hill, agency: SportsTalent) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized American guard Sylven Landesberg (198-90, college: Virginia) replied with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and international forward Elishay Kadir (202-87, agency: Avi Zilberman) added 12 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Maccabi Haifa. Four Hapoel Holon and five Maccabi Haifa players scored in double figures. Hapoel Holon maintains seventh position with 7-9 record. Maccabi Haifa lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth place with 11 games lost. Hapoel Holon's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Hapoel J-M in Jerusalem and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Maccabi Haifa will play on the road against Maccabi Rishon (#5) in Rishon Le-Zion.
Top scorers:
Maccabi Haifa: S.Landesberg 19+6reb+5ast, F.Robinson 15+4reb+2ast, M.Killingsworth 13+11reb+2ast, E.Kadir 12+9reb+5ast, G.Jackson 11+1reb+7ast, D.Low 3
Hapoel Holon: R.Melzer 19+6reb+3ast, E.Campbell 15+5reb+2ast, A.Ben David 11+6reb+4ast, M.Roth 10+1reb+5ast, N.Cohen 9+3reb+2ast, L.Segev 7+3reb+4ast
gschID: 119296




Lukoil Academic sealed a win over Romeo Travis and his team - by Eurobasket News
Lukoil Academic- Barak Netanya 84:76

Lukoil Academic used a team game against Romeo Travis (201-F-84, college: Akron) and his Barak Netanya to seal 84:76 win. The Bulgarian team improved to 2-1 record in Group I of EuroChallenge, while the team from Israel dropped to 0-3 record.
Lukoil Academic opened the game with 7-0 run and kept the advantage until the last minutes of the first period. Romeo Travis however tied the game at 19:19 and Washam gave the guests from Israel the lead at 21:19. Veselinov tied it all again in the start of the second period and Travis Peterson (208-C-85, agency: Edge Sports, college: Samford) erupted for 39:29 home lead. After 28-13 in the frame the hosts enjoyed 48:34 halftime deficit. The tempo was also high in the third period and both teams exchanged 17 points for each basket. It allowed Lukoil to keep 65:51 lead after 30 minutes when Heath closed the period from the free throw line. Chris Watson (200-F-75, college: Niagara) and Travis Peterson exchanged for 67:57, while McCollum and Younger reduced to 67:64. Moreover Romeo Travis cut it to 75:74, but Veselinov and Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90, agency: Interperformances) were perfect from the free throw line and Green made the final basket in the game.
Travis Peterson stepped up with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Damjan Stojanovski (197-F-87) netted 15. Bozhidar Avramov added 13, whilst Bruno Sundov (221-C-80, agency: Alti Sport) collected 11 points and the same number of rebounds. Romeo Travis erupted with 32 points and 14 rebounds in defeat and Chris Watson scored 11.

Lukoil Academic: Travis Peterson 17+10 rebs, Damjan Stojanovski 15, Bozhidar Avramov 13, Bruno Sundov 11+11 rebs
Barak Netanya: Romeo Travis 32+14 rebs, Chris Watson 11


Spartak destroy Maccabi Haifa to open EuroChallenge Last 16 Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Spartak-Maccabi Haifa 101:60

Spartak destroy Maccabi Haifa to open EuroChallenge Day 3 in St.Petersburg. An easy start allowed the Russian team celebrate 101:60 win for the perfect record in Group I.
Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) brought the first three points for the hosts that never looked behind in the game. He also scored the last 7 points in the opening period for hiss die to give them 33:18 advantage. In the second frame however the guests replied with 15-11 as Killingsworth reduced to 42:33. Dragovic opened the third frame from the perimeter and the court belonged later only to the home side. With 30-12 in it Spartak reached 74:45 after three periods. Jackson and Boris Rothbart (218-C-86, agency: Avi Zilberman) reduced to 74:49, while Korchagin and Zozulin scored for 95:56. Antic gave three digit-number for the home side in the end and Landesberg made the final score in the campaign.
Henry Domercant paced all the winners with 21 points, while Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86) and Patrick Beverley (185-G-88, college: Arkansas) delivered 13 points apiece. Killingsworth ended up with 13 points in the losing effort and Boris Rothbart scored 10.

Spartak: Henry Domercant 21, Anton Ponkrashov 13, Patrick Beverley 13
Maccabi Haifa: Killingsworth 13, Boris Rothbart 10


*****************************************************
  ITALY   


Italian A dilettanti round 19 best performance: Mattia Soloperto - by Eurobasket News
Center Mattia Soloperto (209-C-80) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Latina Basket, receiving a Eurobasket.com A dilettanti Player of the Week award for round 19.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 25 points and 12 rebounds, while his team edged out Massafra (#8, 9-10) 71-69. Latina Basket maintains the 5th position in Italian A dilettanti. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Latina Basket will need more victories to improve their 11-8 record. Soloperto turned to be Latina Basket's top player in his first season with the team. Mattia Soloperto averages this season 12.4ppg and 7.7rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old former international power forward Simone Bagnoli (206-F/C-81) of Publisys Potenza. Bagnoli had a very good evening with a double-double of 19 points and 18 rebounds. Of course he lead Potenza to another comfortable win 75-60 over Patti (8-11) being unquestionably team leader. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the top position in group B. But Potenza managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 12th place. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 8-11 record. Bagnoli is a newcomer at Potenza, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was center Damiano Verri (206-C-85) of Osimo (#16). Verri scored 27 points and grabbed six rebounds. Despite Verri's great performance Osimo lost 79-94 to slightly higher-ranked Riva del Garda (#15, 4-15). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Osimo can only dream about fighting for top spots in group A. They have rather bad season and 2-17 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Verri he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Verri has a very solid season. In 18 games in Italy he scored 8.6ppg. He also has 4.8rpg and FGP: 61.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Davide Rosignoli (202-F-88) of Bisceglie - 15 points and 12 rebounds
5. Silvio Gigena (200-F-75) of Ostuni - 21 points and 8 rebounds
6. Riccardo Pederzini (198-F-89) of Recanati - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Daniele Ricciardi (185-G-81) of Palestrina - 30 points and 2 rebounds
8. Sebastian Vico (190-G-86) of Matera - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Francesco Basei (207-C-83) of Ostuni - 16 points and 11 rebounds
10. Paolo Mossi (193-G-76) of Agrigento - 26 points and 5 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)

Devin Smith leads Benetton past Panellinios - by Eurobasket News
Panellinios - Benetton 75:83

Benetton posted the second win in EuroCup Last 16 stage. They defeated Panellinios in Greece to improve their position in Group L. Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia) banked 22 points to lead the effort. Panellinios in the meantime fell at 0-3 record at the bottom of the ladder.
The visitors quickly jumped in front. They record a 5:0 lead. Benetton led throughout the bigger part of the first quarter and registered a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. Greg Brunner posted a 30:19 lead for Benetton in the second frame. The margin kept on growing in the period. The visitors piled up a 54:40 lead at the interval. Torin Francis (210-F-83, college: Notre Dame) fought hard for Panellinios. He dragged the home team within three points 63:66 in the third quarter. Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) secured a 68:63 lead at the final intermission. Benetton followed with a 7:0 run to take a 75:63 lead. Panellinios never recovered in the final stanza as Benetton rolled to the win at the end. Massimo Bulleri (188-G-77) nailed 12 points for Benetton. Hrvoje Peric had 11 points in the victory. Torin Francis replied with game-high 29 points and 10 rebounds for Panellinios. Steven Smith (203-F-83, college: La Salle) had 16 points in the loss.

Panellinios: Torin Francis 29+10 boards, Steven Smith 16
Benetton: Devin Smith 22, Massimo Bulleri 12, Hrvoje Peric 11


Pepsi Caserta nip Estudiantes - by Eurobasket News
Pepsi Caserta - Estudiantes 87:85

Pepsi Caserta cleared off on top of EuroCup Last 16 Group K. They held off Estudiantes to improve at 3-0 record worth the top position in the ladder. Estudiantes fell at 2-1 record just behind the Italian side. Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) scored 17 points to lead the winners.
It was a close battle from start to finish. The hosts grabbed a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Pepsi Caserta got away midway through the second term. They posted a 44:32 lead but Estudiantes reacted adequately. The visitors sparked a 12:3 run that put them as close as three points at halftime 44:47. Nik Caner-Medley and Welsch put the visitors in front early in the third term. The Spaniards maintained the advantage and headed into the fourth period up by two points 63:61. Pepsi Caserta quickly organized a 10:0 rally to regain the lead. Estudiantes stayed close till the final seconds but Oliver missed a buzzer-beater and Pepsi Caserta sneaked to a narrow victory at the end. Jumaine Jones (202-F-79, college: Georgia) provided 15 points and 8 rebounds, while Timothy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) had 14 in the win. German Gabriel (207-C-80) replied with 20 points and 9 boards for Estudiantes. Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan) chipped in 16 points in defeat.

Pepsi Caserta: Ebi Ere 17, Jumaine Jones 15, Timothy Bowers 14
Estudiantes: German Gabriel 20, Josh Asselin 16


Attendees of the Italian U20 National Team Camp in January 2011 - by Greg
#s#
Pierluigi Aprea
Aprea
Marco Contento
Contento
Andrea De Nicolao
De Nicolao
Simone Fabiani
Fabiani
Giulio Gazzotti
Gazzotti
#e#5
Pierluigi Aprea 190-G-91 S.Antimo Italy
Marco Contento 180-G-91 Trieste Italy
Andrea De Nicolao 185-G-91 Castelletto Italy
Simone Fabiani 207-F/C-92 CS Bologna Italy
Giulio Gazzotti 202-F-91 Ozzano Italy
Tommaso Ingrosso 205-F-92 Montepaschi Italy
Roberto Marulli 191-G-91 Treviglio Italy
Domenico Marzaioli 175-G-91 Pepsi Caserta Italy
Giacomo Maspero 202-C/F-92 Bennet Cantu Italy
Fabio Mian 195-F-92 Cimberio VA Italy
Salvatore Parrillo 190-F-92 Ferentino Italy
Giovanni Pini 205-F/C-92 Trenkwalder Italy
Nunzio Sabbatino 189-G-92 Agrigento Italy
Giorgio Sgobba 202-F-92 Fabriano Italy
Marco Spanghero 185-G-91 Trento Italy
Gianluca Valesin 193-G-92 Caorle Italy
Gianni Delle Cave 186-G-91 Rieti Italy
Simone Fiorito 200-F/G-91 Trento Italy
Daniele Mastrangelo 187-G-91 Molfetta Italy
Matteo Negri 194-G-91 Ozzano Italy
Bruno Ondo Mengue 193-G-92 Roma S.Azzurra Italy
Giampaolo Ricci 200-F-91 Roma S.Azzurra Italy



stats leader
Points Per Game
 Daniele RICCIARDI
  Palestrina
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Ricciardi, Palestrina18.1 
 2. Reati, Treviglio18.1 
 3. Vico, Matera18.0 
 4. Evangelisti, Trapani17.8 
 5. Rugolo, Molfetta16.7 
 6. Tassinari, Moncalieri16.4 
 7. Masper, Moncalieri16.3 
 8. Casadei, Comsum.i.16.2 
 9. Becerra, Rieti15.9 
 10. Musso, Perugia15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Simone BAGNOLI
  Potenza
  (206-F/C-81)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Bagnoli, Potenza10.7 
 2. Corral, Molfetta9.9 
 3. Zambon, Rieti9.5 
 4. Rosignoli, Bisceglie9.5 
 5. Basei, Ostuni9.3 
 6. Capitanelli, Pales.9.1 
 7. Zerini, Ruvo8.9 
 8. Chiaramello, Recanati8.4 
 9. Facenda, Senigallia8.3 
 10. De Min, Treviglio8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Simone FERRARESE
  Trento
  (182-G-87)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Ferrarese, Trento5.3 
 2. Marino, Treviglio4.7 
 3. Marcante, ASD P.3.7 
 4. Virgilio, Rieti3.6 
 5. Gnaccarini, Senig.3.5 
 6. Lenardon, Massafra3.5 
 7. Tomasiello, Comsum.3.4 
 8. Bolzonella, Piacenza3.1 
 9. Bushati, Brescia3.1 
 10. Basanisi, Massafra3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Francesco GUARINO
  Trapani
  (182-G-79)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Guarino, Trapani3.4 
 2. Marcante, ASD P.3.2 
 3. Gullo, Patti3.1 
 4. Bonamente, Perugia3.0 
 5. De Nicolao, Castelle.3.0 
 6. Bushati, Brescia2.9 
 7. Malamov, Ruvo2.8 
 8. Casadei, Comsum.i.2.8 
 9. Valentini, S.Antimo2.8 
 10. Pozzi, Molfetta2.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrea ZERINI
  Ruvo
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Zerini, Ruvo1.8 
 2. Ancellotti, Patti1.5 
 3. Corral, Molfetta1.3 
 4. Raminelli, Castelle.1.2 
 5. Biligha, ASD Pavia1.1 
 6. Capitanelli, Pales.1.1 
 7. Basei, Ostuni1.0 
 8. Candido, Ferentino1.0 
 9. Pozzi, Molfetta0.9 
 10. Rossi, Omegna0.8 


Standings - B1
A Standings
Group A
 1. Trento 15-4 
 2. Perugia 14-5 
 3. Brescia 13-6 
 4. Piacenza 13-6 
 5. Treviglio 12-7 
 6. Omegna 12-7 
 7. Trieste 11-8 
 8. Castelletto 10-9 
 9. Moncalieri 9-10 
 10. Senigallia 9-10 
 11. ASD Pavia 8-11 
 12. Comsum.it SI 8-11 
 13. Recanati 7-12 
 14. Ozzano 5-14 
 15. Riva del Garda 4-15 
 16. Osimo 2-17 
Group B
 1. Ruvo 15-4 
 2. Trapani 14-5 
 3. Ostuni 13-6 
 4. S.Antimo 12-7 
 5. Latina Basket 11-8 
 6. Matera 10-9 
 7. Rieti 9-9 
 8. Massafra 9-10 
 9. Anagni 9-10 
 10. Ferentino 9-10 
 11. Bisceglie 8-11 
 12. Potenza 8-11 
 13. Molfetta 8-11 
 14. Patti 8-11 
 15. Palestrina 4-14 
 16. Agrigento 4-15 


*****************************************************
  JAPAN   


Japanese BJ League round 29 best performance: Michael Bell - by Eurobasket News
American forward Michael Bell (206-F-82) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Sendai 89ers, receiving a Asia-basket.com BJ League Player of the Week award for round 29.
The 28-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat Osaka Evessa (#2, 18-10) 77-72. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Sendai 89ers maintains the 2nd position in Japanese BJ League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Sendai 89ers will need more victories to improve their 16-10 record. Bell turned to be Sendai 89ers' top player in his first season with the team. Former Florida Atlantic University star has very solid stats this year. Bell is in league's top in points (6th best: 18.5ppg) and averages impressive 1.6bpg and 57.6% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American Kenny Satterfield (188-G-81) of Saitama Broncos. Satterfield had a very good evening with a double-double of 33 points and 10 rebounds. Bad luck as Saitama Broncos lost that game 91-97 to the higher-ranked Shiga Lakestars (#1, 18-10). Saitama Broncos 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 11-17 record. Satterfield is a newcomer at Saitama Broncos, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American swingman William Knight (196-F/G-79) of league's second-best Osaka Evessa. Knight showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, fifteen rebounds (!!!) and seven assists in the last round. Despite Knight's great performance Osaka Evessa lost 72-77 to #2 ranked Sendai 89ers. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing Osaka Evessa needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 18 victories and 10 lost games. Knight has a great season in Japan. After 28 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.3ppg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Anthony McHenry (201-G/F-83) of Okinawa GK - 18 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Chris Holm (212-C/F-84) of Sendai 89ers - 11 points and 22 rebounds
6. Jeral Davis (216-C-84) of Shimane - 11 points and 13 rebounds
7. Mikey Marshall (196-G-81) of Shiga Lakestars - 17 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Ayodokun Akingbade (207-F-84) of Akita - 15 points and 13 rebounds
9. Lamar Rice (203-F-82) of Shiga Lakestars - 25 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Zachary Andrews (203-F/C-85) of Niigata Albirex - 8 points and 19 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)

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


BCM Gravelines Dunkerque conquer Group K - by Eurobasket News
BCM Gravelines Dunkerque-BK Ventspils 74:70

BCM Gravelines Dunkerque conquer Group K of EuroChallenge registering another victory in the tournament. The French team grabbed a home 74:70 victory over BK Ventspils for 3-0 record.
It was tough start for both teams and both of them could take the lead after 10 minutes. The hosts however nailed 4 three-pointers at the very end to take 23:21 lead. Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83, college: Connecticut) later gave Ventspils 33:27 and Bankevics brought 45:32. Bokolo nailed another three-pointer to send the teams to the lockers at 42:38. BK Ventspils also won the third frame and after 18-14 increased the lead to 60:52. The game however was not over for the French outfit. They started the fourth period with 8-0 run as Johnson tied the game at 60:60. Mouhamed Sene (213-C-86) made it equal at 64:64 and later the hosts dominated the court. Cyril Akpomedah (203-F-79) brought the last points for the winners and Arturs Berzins (204-C-88, agency: FCM) made the final result in the game.
Ben Woodside (180-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Dakota St.) erupted with 27 points for the hosts and Mouhamed Sene had 15 points and 10 rebounds. Johnson netted 11, while Cyril Akpomedah scored 10. Rashad Anderson delivered 25 points for the Baltic side that dropped at 1-2 record. Arturs Berzins scored 15 and Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds.

BCM Gravelines Dunkerque: Ben Woodside 27, Mouhamed Sene 15+10 rebs, Johnson 11, Cyril Akpomedah 10
BK Ventspils: Rashad Anderson 25, Arturs Berzins 15, Saulius Kuzminskas 13+11 rebs


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


Salenga is training with Sakalai - by Aurimas Rimselis
Former B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas player Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) joins Sakalai Vilnius only for training, because he was suspended by FIBA with a suspicion of doping. Basketball player for almost a month ago was embroiled in an unpleasant situation, when in his body was found prohibited products. FIBA banned the forward to play official competitions until the situation is finally resolved. A few weeks ago Salenga was sacked by B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas club. While waiting his fate, he decided to maintain sporting form with the capital team. D. Salenga played for Sakalai Vilnius in 1998-2000 seasons.

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


LNBP Semifinals: Fuerza Regia beats Pioneros in Game 3 - by Eurobasket News

Fuerza Regia - Pioneros 96-70

Fuerza Regia celebrated the first victory in LNBP Semifinals. The hosts blasted Pioneros coming to 1-2 in the series. Fuerza Regia will have a chance to tie the score tonight in another home game.
It was a game without a history. Fuerza Regia led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Pioneros' 30. They outrebounded Pioneros 38-25 including 26 on the defensive glass. Fuerza Regia looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Pioneros' players. The best player for the winners was American guard Mike Mitchell (181-83, college: N.Mexico St.) who scored 15 points, 9 assists and 4 steals. His fellow American import forward Jeremis Smith (203-86, college: Georgia Tech) chipped in 19 points and 6 rebounds. Four Fuerza Regia players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international forward Stephen Soriano (201-84, college: Mesa St.) who recorded 17 points and American guard LeRoy Hickerson (196-82, college: Cumberlands) added 10 points respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.

Top scorers:
Fuerza Regia: J.Smith 19+6reb+1ast, M.Mitchell 15+3reb+9ast, A.Joseph Tyronzic 12+3reb+3ast, J.Habel 11+7reb+1ast, A.Carmona 10+3reb+1ast, J.Richards 9+4reb
Pioneros: S.Soriano 17+1reb+1ast, L.Hickerson 10+4reb+1ast, J.Villanueva 9+3reb, J.Sanchez 8+2reb+1ast, R.Allen 7+2reb+2ast, K.Young 6+6reb+1ast

hID: 120891




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


Standings - 1A
1A Standings
 1. Ulcijn 10-2 
 2. Mornar Bar 10-3 
 3. Lovcen 9-4 
 4. Jedinstvo 8-5 
 5. Teodo Tivat 7-5 
 6. Mogren 6-7 
 7. ABS Primorje 5-8 
 8. Danilovgrad 3-10 
 9. Gorstak 3-10 
 10. Ljubovic 3-10 
Play in international cups:
 1. Buducnost - 


Standings - 1B
1B regular season Standings
Group A
 1. KK Podgorica 7-1 
 2. Centar BP 6-2 
 3. Rudar 6-3 
 4. Bonus 5-4 
 5. Buducnost II 3-5 
 6. Novljanin 3-6 
 7. LIM 0-9 
Group B
 1. Sutjeska 8-2 
 2. Ibar Rozaje 7-3 
 3. S.Centar 7-3 
 4. Un.Mediteran 4-7 
 5. Kotor 1-10 
 6. KK Cetinje 0-0 
 7. Zeta 0-0 


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


Gold Rush remain 11th in NAIA Division I Top 25 - by Emiliano
For the second straight week Xavier (LA) is 11th in the NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25. The poll was released Monday.
Xavier (20-2) won twice 69-63 at home againat Mobile and 56-54 at SUNO to increase its win streak to six games. XU's men have won 24 of their last 27 games dating to last season.
Xavier has been ranked in every top 25 this season, with a high of ninth on Dec. 13. For the fourth straight week Xavier is one of two Gulf Coast Athletic Conference teams in the top 25. The other, Tougaloo, held on to its No. 22 rating after winning twice.
The next Gold Rush game will start at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at The Barn against Belhaven, which is responsible for two of Xavier's three losses in the last 27 games. The Blazers beat Xavier 66-55 at Jackson, Miss., on Jan. 8.
Robert Morris (Chicago) is No. 1 for the second straight week, edging Concordia (Calif.) by three points for the top spot. Robert Morris received seven first-place votes, two less than last week, and Concordia collected five.


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


Gortat gets real hot for Sun's - by Eurobasket
Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84), known as the Polish Hammer to his teammates, had career highs in his last two games for the Phoenix Suns. The performances helped Phoenix end a three-game losing streak.
Before their game against the Celtics on Friday, the Suns had previously lost three straight to the likes of the Detroit Pistons, Philadelphia 76ers, and Charlotte Bobcats.
Against the powerhouse Boston Celtics and the New Orleans Hornets, the 7 0 center from Poland erupted for two quality games. The Hornets had recently won 10 games in a row.
The Suns surprised Boston. Led by Gortat, he recorded 19 points and 17 rebounds, both career highs, in a surprising 88-71 blowout over the Celtics. After the game, Gortat said, I just tried to play hard and compete. Ive been thinking of a lot of things over the last couple of days, and I appreciate the opportunity I have here. I have a very good coach who gives me a lot of freedom and a lot of playing time. A lot of teammates trust me, and Im grateful I have this opportunity. Im just trying to be productive. I still believe I can do better.
When asked about the difficulty in defending against Shaquille ONeal, Gortat said the following. In Poland, you have 150 kids at a basketball camp; one will ask you what is it like to be an NBA player and the other 149 want to know what its like playing against Shaq. They ask how big is he. Whats his shoe size? How much does he bench press? It was all about Shaq. If I didnt get to play him this year, the kids would be disappointed.
In the next game Gortat even went better. The 26-year old from Lodz followed that Celtics performance by blowing out his previous high score. Off the bench against New Orleans, Gortat hit 9 of 10 shots from the field and 7-7 from the foul line. It was a new career-high of 25 points to help edge out the red hot Hornets, 104-102. He also added 11 boards.
The Suns nearly blew an eight-point lead in the final 18 seconds, but Grant Hill blocked Marcus Thornton's inside attempt with 3.9 seconds left and Hornets guard Chris Paul's desperation 3-point attempt missed the rim as time expired.
Suns guard Goran Dragic is now listed as day-to-day. He didn't play against the Hornets after stepping on glass at his home Saturday. He received nine stitches in his left foot. Phoenix will play Oklahoma on Friday.


By Raymond Rolak



Monday's games review - by Eurobasket News
LA Clippers - Milwaukee B. 105-98
Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) had 32 points and 11 rebounds for his 39th double-double, and the Los Angeles Clippers withstood a fourth-quarter challenge to beat the Milwaukee Bucks 105-98 Monday night for their ninth straight home win. The Clippers tied the third-longest consecutive home victory streak in franchise history set when the team was known as the Buffalo Braves and won nine in a row from Oct. 22-Nov. 23, 1974. They got another bit of good news, too. Eric Gordon, the Clippers' leading scorer who was expected to be out for a month because of a right wrist injury, is now day-to-day and will join the team for its upcoming 10-game road trip, a team spokesperson said. Randy Foye added 20 points in his fourth consecutive start in place of Gordon, while Baron Davis (6'2''-G-79, college: UCLA) added 18 and DeAndre Jordan had 16. The Clippers were 25 of 27 from the free throw line in a game that featured 18 lead changes. Corey Maggette scored 25 points against his former team as the Bucks' three-game winning streak ended. Ersan Ilyasova added 15 and Andrew Bogut 14 points and 11 rebounds. *Courtesy of www.chron.com

Utah Jazz - Charlotte B. 83-78
Fourteen seconds is all it took for the Utah Jazz to show they came to play Monday night. That's when Andrei Kirilenko (6'9''-F-81) recorded the first of 10 blocked shots on the night for Utah in a hard-fought 83-78 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats. ''I thought we were the aggressor tonight for most of the game,'' said Jazz guard Raja Bell, whose rebound and two free throws down the stretch sealed the win. ''That's the way you have to play.'' When it was over, the Jazz had a 49-36 edge on the boards while holding Charlotte to 35.6 percent shooting. Overall, it was the kind of effort that helped Utah start the season 15-5, rather than the sluggish 13-15 mark since then. ''After the game we had (Sunday night), it felt good to watch them play a little harder,'' Jazz coach Jerry Sloan said of an embarrassing 96-81 loss at Golden State. ''And when you play hard, you always have a chance to win.'' The Jazz had three frontcourt starters record double-doubles, led by Al Jefferson (6'10''-F-85) with 21 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks. Paul Millsap, despite nursing a severely bruised thumb on his shooting hand and dislocating his left little finger in the first quarter Monday, added 14 points and 12 rebounds. Kirilenko added 13 points on 6-of-10 shooting, with 11 rebounds and three blocks. The Jazz won despite being without star point guard Deron Williams for the third straight game because of a wrist injury and having backup Earl Watson in early foul trouble. Stephen Jackson led Charlotte with 24 points, while D.J. Augustin added 20 for the Bobcats, who have lost two straight. *Courtesy of www.msn.foxsports.com

Memphis G. - Orlando M. 100-97
Mike Conley (6'1''-G-87, college: Ohio St.) scored 26 points and had a key steal late, and Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) missed a 40-footer at the buzzer as the Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Orlando Magic 100-97 on Monday night. Gilbert Arenas made one of two foul shots to cut the Grizzlies lead to 98-97 with 40 seconds left. Conley stole the ball from Orlando forward Ryan Anderson and was fouled. Dwight Howard was then called for a technical foul and Zach Randolph made the free throw. Conley made one of two free throws before Richardson's shot missed badly. Conley also had 11 assists, marking the first time in his career he more than 20 points and 10 assists in the same game. *Courtesy of www.stltoday.com

Dallas M. - Washington W. 102-92
Dallas coach Rick Carlisle had seen just about all he could take. With his Mavericks playing down to the worst road team in the NBA, Carlisle ripped into his players during a second-quarter timeout. They got the message. Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) scored 24 points, Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) added 18 points and 18 rebounds, and Dallas kept the Washington Wizards winless on the road with a 102-92 victory on Monday night. ''I was mad. Really, it was the maddest that I have been all year,'' Carlisle said. ''At that point, we were playing a losing brand of basketball and they will tell you the same thing. We picked it up at both ends and we started competing better.'' Jason Terry contributed 14 points and eight assists and Shawn Marion had 14 points and nine rebounds for Dallas, which has won five straight and six of seven following a six-game losing streak. Jason Kidd had 11 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds for the Mavs. *Courtesy of www.comcast.net

Indiana P. - Toronto R. 104-93
Roy Hibbert (7'2''-C-86, college: Georgetown) had 24 points and 11 rebounds to help Indiana beat the Toronto Raptors 104-93 Monday night in Frank Vogel's debut as Pacers interim coach. The 37-year-old Vogel replaced Jim O'Brien, who was fired on Sunday. Vogel said he would allow Hibbert to play through his mistakes, and the 7-foot-2 centre rewarded his new coach with his highest-scoring game since Nov. 28. Darren Collison (6'0''-G-87, college: UCLA) and Paul George scored 16 points and Tyler Hansbrough added 14 as the Pacers extended Toronto's losing streak to 12 games. The Raptors gave up 100 or more points for the eighth straight contest. Amir Johnson led Toronto with 18 points, and Jose Calderon and Ed Davis added 13. Andrea Bargnani, Toronto's leading scorer this season, finished with 12 points on 3-for-15 shooting. *Courtesy of www.thestar.com

New Jersey N. - Denver N. 115-99
Brook Lopez (7'0''-F/C-88, college: Stanford) scored 27 points and Devin Harris (6'3''-G-83, college: Wisconsin) had a career-high 18 assists as the Nets gave Carmelo Anthony an indication why he might want to play for New Jersey with a 115-99 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday night. The game was the first between the teams since Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov told his team to halt extended trade talks with Denver for Anthony a little less than two weeks ago, saying the drawn-out negotiations were hurting his team. The Nets (15-34) are 5-3 since the talks ended, but Anthony gave the fans who jeered and cheered him at different times a clear indication why he is so valued, scoring 37 points -- two shy of his season high -- to keep his team in the game. *Courtesy of www.kktv.com

Miami Heat - Cleveland C. 117-90
Once again, LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) helped the Cleveland Cavaliers reach a milestone in the NBA standings. First to 40 wins one year. First to 40 losses the next. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) scored 26 of his 34 points in the first half, James finished with 24 points and eight assists and the Miami Heat beat the Cavaliers for the third time since the two-time MVP changed cities, winning 117-90 Monday night to hand Cleveland its 21st straight loss - as many as it dropped in the entire 2009-10 regular season. Cleveland (8-40) is now two losses shy of tying the single-season NBA futility streak record shared by the 1995-96 Vancouver Grizzlies and 1997-98 Denver Nuggets. Overall, the Cavaliers have lost 31 of 32 games, along with 24 straight on the road. *Courtesy of www.comcast.net



Friday night Recap of the Hawks and Knicks - by Darryl Reshaw
Hawks 111 - Knicks 102
By Robert Conley - A special basketball analyst for Eurobasket who played at the highest level in Europe with many current European and NBA stars.

The game began slow as both teams struggled to get things going. Josh smith started the game with a couple of post ups that produced some easy baskets for the Hawks. Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) kept the Knicks in the game with some shots from around the arc in the first. In the second quarter the game got exciting as Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) had a monstrous dunk on the slam dunk champ Josh smith. He and rookie Landry fields passed the way for the Knicks. But the Hawks were hitting on all cylinders, as Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) would begin to heat up in the second quarter. In just 7 minutes in downed 10 points consecutively to give the Hawks a 60 43 lead heading into the half.

The second half would begin much like the first, as Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) would continue his dominance on the game. In just ten minutes of play he scorched the Knicks for 16 points in the third. Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) pitched in with an amazing alley oop dunk from Jamal Crawford. Alfred Horford (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Florida) was solid also for the Hawks as he was consistent on the boards ended the third with 14 points and 12 boards.

The fourth and final quarter was mainly dominated by the Hawks. The Knicks did, however make a run late in the quarter, which lead to an intense end to the fourth. With 4:24 seconds left the Knick fans were feeling restless with their team and began to boo the Hawks on every play. While the Hawks fans were filing out of the arena it seemed that the Knicks fans were dominating the crowd. While Alfred Horford was at the free throw line the crowd began to boo loader and loader. After he made the first one, he walked of the line pointing to the crowd telling them this was our gym. This made the Hawks fans that were still there roar. After he made the second both crowds seem to get engaged in every play of the game. It was if it was a playoff game the way the crowd was into it. With just two minutes left to play the Knicks had cut the lead to five. It was really loud at the arena at this point. With both teams feeling the pressure from the crowd, Marvin Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) and Shawne Williams (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Memphis) began to have a war of words. After a defensive rebound by the Hawks, Marvin Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) and Shawne Williams (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Memphis) began to fight. They both threw punches and Marvin was eventually ejected. With the game being close again, the Hawks gave the ball the there 130 million-dollar man to close the game out. Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) ended the game with 34 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assist to give the Hawks a 111-102 home victory.

Hawks.-Williams 12pt, Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) 24pts, 9rebs, 4as, Alfred Horford 19pts, 14rebs, Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas), 34pts, 8rebs, 7 as, Mike Bibby 5pts, 5rebs, Jamal Crawford 11pts,
Knicks- Shawne Williams (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Memphis) 12pts, 11pts, Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) 12pts, Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) 27pts, Landry Fields 15pts, 5rebs, Raymond Felton 21pts, 13rebs, Ronny Turiaf 8pts, 7rebs

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28.9
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.28.9 
 2. Stoudemire, New Y.26.2 
 3. James, Miami Heat26.0 
 4. Wade, Miami Heat25.7 
 5. Bryant, LA Lakers25.5 
 6. Ellis, Golde S.25.1 
 7. Rose, Chicago B.24.4 
 8. Gordon, LA Clippers24.1 
 9. Anthony, Denver N.23.9 
 10. Nowitzki, Dallas M.23.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.6
 1. Love, Minnesota T.15.6 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.13.6 
 3. Randolph, Memph.13.2 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.12.7 
 5. Bogut, Milwauke.11.7 
 6. Noah, Chicago B.11.7 
 7. Camby, Portland TB11.3 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers10.5 
 9. Boozer, Chicago B.10.2 
 10. Okafor, N.Orlean.10.1 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Rondo, Boston C.12.6 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.0 
 3. Paul, N.Orleans H.9.7 
 4. Williams, Utah Jazz9.4 
 5. Wall, Washington W.9.3 
 6. Felton, New Y.8.8 
 7. Calderon, Toron.8.5 
 8. Westbrook, Oklah..8.5 
 9. Kidd, Dallas M.8.4 
 10. Rose, Chicago B.8.1 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.6 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.2.3 
 3. Ellis, Golde S.2.3 
 4. Curry, Golde S.1.9 
 5. Felton, New Y.1.9 
 6. Westbrook, Oklah..1.9 
 7. Ginobili, San A.1.8 
 8. Evans, Sacramen.1.8 
 9. Gay, Memphis G.1.7 
 10. Ariza, N.Orleans H.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Bogut, Milwauke.2.8 
 2. McGee, Washingt.2.5 
 3. Milicic, Minnesota T.2.4 
 4. Stoudemire, New Y.2.2 
 5. Howard, Orlando M.2.2 
 6. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.0 
 7. Duncan, San A.2.0 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers1.9 
 9. Jefferson, Utah J.1.9 
 10. Camby, Portland TB1.9 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 36-11 
 2. New York K. 25-22 
 3. Philadelph.76 21-26 
 4. New Jersey N. 15-34 
 5. Toronto R. 13-36 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 33-14 
 2. Milwaukee B. 19-27 
 3. Indiana P. 18-27 
 4. Detroit P. 17-31 
 5. Cleveland C. 8-40 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 34-14 
 2. Orlando M. 31-18 
 3. Atlanta H. 30-18 
 4. Charlotte B. 20-27 
 5. Washington W. 13-34 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 30-17 
 2. Utah Jazz 29-20 
 3. Denver N. 28-20 
 4. Portland TB 25-22 
 5. Minnesota T. 11-36 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 33-15 
 2. Phoenix Suns 22-24 
 3. Golde State W. 20-27 
 4. LA Clippers 19-28 
 5. Sacramento K. 12-33 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 40-7 
 2. Dallas M. 32-15 
 3. N.Orleans H. 31-18 
 4. Memphis G. 25-24 
 5. Houston R. 22-27 


With Farmar out, Nets will sign Orien Greene to 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
Orien Greene (6'4''-G-82, college: La-Lafayette) hasn't played in the NBA since he appeared in seven games with the Sacramento Kings during the 2007-08 season, but he's apparently shown the New Jersey Nets that he deserves another chance as a source has confirmed to FanHouse that Greene has received a 10-day call-up from the team.

The move was first reported by Jonathan Givony of DraftExpres on Twitter.

Greene, a 6-foot-4 guard out of Louisiana-Lafayette, was the 53rd overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. Greene has played in 128 career NBA games, including seven starts, but the defensive stalwart was never able to get his offense going as he averaged just 2.5 points on 39 percent shooting in stints with the Celtics, Kings and Indiana Pacers.

The biggest thing keeping him out of the NBA, however, may have been some off-court mishaps. With the Celtics, he was suspended for driving 90 miles per hour on a city street. Last season, while playing in Venezuela, it was discovered that he failed a drug test while playing in Amsterdam a year earlier.

'It ain't Jerusalem,' Greene told True Hoop's Henry Abbott last month. 'You have to go check out Amsterdam for yourself. Can't really do nothing about that.'

He's worked hard changing that image, however, and has been a seemingly model citizen off the court while playing for the NBA D-League's Utah Flash the past two seasons.

'I ain't getting no younger. More guys coming out, more athletic. More a lot of stuff. But I don't think there's a lot of guys in the league right now who can bring what I bring. I'm 28. Whatever,' Greene told True Hoop. 'A lot of guys in the league that I see right now, don't really play both sides of the ball. Lord willing, lord willing, somebody's going to call me and I can get back in.'

Playing both sides of the ball is something that Greene is doing quite well as he's currently averaging 18.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 2.0 steals while playing a point-forward role for the Flash.

He's also been catching the attention of people in the basketball world, whether it be from opposing D-League teams or NBA scouts.

'I loved his versatility at the showcase. He played point or the wing, and his game never wavered wherever he was playing,' Fort Wayne Mad Ants president Jeff Potter recently wrote on his blog. 'I've heard he is not a great shooter, but I thought he shot well when I saw him, and I loved how active he was on defense.'

An NBA scout said similar things while talking to FanHouse prior to the D-League Showcase when asked which players were interesting.

'Greene's a great athlete with an NBA body,' the scout said. 'He's always been aggressive attacking the basket, he's really improved his outside shooting this year. On defense, he's got a great knack for the ball and active hands. The only thing holding him back right now is he often times comes off as being a little out of control.'

It's not known how much of a chance he'll be given during his initial 10-day contract with the Nets, but it seems like he at least deserved another opportunity to show the NBA that he still has what it takes to play in the big leagues.

Courtesy of http://nba.fanhouse.com

Heat's Eddie House fined $25,000 for 'obscene' gesture - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat guard Eddie House (6'1''-G-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Arizona St.) was fined $25,000 Monday by the NBA for what the league deemed an obscene gesture after he converted the game-deciding 3-pointer with 22.2 seconds left in Sunday's 108-103 road victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

In a statement, the NBA announced that House was fined, 'for making an obscene gesture, it was announced today by Stu Jackson, NBA Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.'

'They made their decision and that's what it is,' House said before the game.

House, who was signed in the offseason for the league minimum salary, offered a similar gesture with his hands by his groin area after converting the deciding two free throws in Friday's 88-87 victory at AmericanAirlines Arena over the Detroit Pistons.

House was not sanctioned for the Friday gesture, which was identical to Sunday's gesture and mimicked a gesture offered throughout his career by former NBA guard Sam Cassell.

However Sunday, prior to the Heat's game at Oklahoma City Arena, Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith was fined $25,000 for a crotch-related gesture in a Friday victory over the New York Knicks.

'The league came down on that, so we're taking it,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. 'It won't happen again.'

Courtesy of www.sun-sentinel.com

James, Randolph earn NBA Player of the Week honors - by Eurobasket News
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) of Miami and Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) were named the Eastern and Western Conference players of the week, respectively, for the week ending January 30.

James finished with 33.0 points and 2.3 steals per game to help the Heat to a 2-1 record. The superstar scored a game-high 39 points in an 88-87 win over Detroit in the absence of teammates Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh last Friday.

Randolph averaged 20.8 points and 15.0 rebounds as the Grizzlies went 3-1 during the week and pulled back to a .500 record for the first time since November 8.

He posted his fifth 20-point and 20-rebound game of the season (24 points and 20 boards) in a 107-93 win over Washington on January 29.

Other nominees for the Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week were Charlotte's Stephen Jackson, New Orleans' Chris Paul, Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, Orlando's Dwight Howard, Sacramento's DeMarcus Cousins and San Antonio's Manu Ginobili.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Winter storm prevents Toronto Raptors from leaving Indianapolis after game - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors are staying in Indianapolis after their game against the Indiana Pacers on Monday night because a huge winter storm developing in the midwest caused their flight to be cancelled.

Team spokesman Jim LaBumbard said the team is checking back into its hotel.

The Raptors, whose 104-93 loss was their 12th straight defeat, are scheduled to play the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday in Atlanta.

The storm took aim at a third of the of the U.S. on Monday, threatening to lay a path of heavy snow and ice from the Rockies to New England. A blizzard watch was in effect for Tuesday and Wednesday for southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois and northwest Indiana.

Courtesy of www.thewesternstar.com

With Nets in the past, Melo unsure of the future - by Eurobasket News
The New Jersey Nets are apparently in Carmelo Anthony's (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) past.

As for the future, is it New York? Denver? Another team?

'I don't know. I really don't know,' Anthony said Monday night.

What he can say is that he was willing to meet with the Nets management about a deal. He still won't reveal whether he would have agreed to actually play for them.

'I would take that meeting. As far as anything else, I really can't speak on that,' Anthony said.

Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov pulled his team out of trade discussions with the Denver Nuggets before it ever got to that point. Though he said it was because he was unhappy with the way the talks had gone, there were reports it was because the Nets knew Anthony would have refused to sign a long-term extension that would have been a prerequisite for New Jersey to go through with the deal.

'I really don't know where that came from, as far as if I was to come here the extension wasn't going to be signed. I really don't know who started that,' Anthony said. 'There's a lot of things that are being said out there that I don't know where they came from. Sources, I guess. As far as the extension, if that trade were to go through, who knows what would've happened. I can't really answer that.'

So for now Anthony remains with the Nuggets, who lost 115-99 to the Nets in their first meeting since trade talks collapsed for the second time this season.

Anthony said he doesn't know how much longer he'll be with the Nuggetsor even if he'll ever leave. But he said he hasn't spoken recently with general manager Masai Ujiri and team president Josh Kroenke, who have to decide if they want to move their superstar before the Feb. 24 trade deadline or deal with this situation straight into the offseason.

'When something starts brewing, or something starts going on, then I'm pretty sure Masai and Josh will come to me and let me know what's going on,' Anthony said.

Before the game, coach George Karl said he still believes he might be coaching Anthony all season.

'I've always felt from the very beginning of the season that the chance of that happening was greater than all you all thought,' Karl said. 'I just felt that way from the first day of training camp, from September, I've always felt that way.'

Asked his basis for that belief, Karl said: 'Just my experiences in the NBA. Just making a big trade in the middle of the season is not an easy thing to do.'

The Nuggets and Nets have tried twice, but both multi-team deals fell apart. It was after the most recent one, which also would have involved the Detroit Pistons, that Prokhorov instructed his management to call off their pursuit of the All-Star forward.

New Jersey had been willing to offer an attractive package to the Nuggets, including No. 3 overall pick Derrick Favors, point guard Devin Harris and multiple first-round draft picks. Denver may not find another offer that good and instead may opt to just hold onto Anthony, who would then have to decide if he wanted to risk free agency next summer when a new collective bargaining agreement could cost him millions.

'The CBA is in the back of my mind, but as far as being afraid to play this out, I'm not,' Anthony said. 'If that's what it's going to take, then so be it. I'm with that.'

But the risk could be substantial.

He is under contract for about $18.5 million next season, and the three-year extension worth about $65 million that Denver has offered him would kick in starting with the 2012-13 season, meaning he'd be scheduled to earn about $83.5 million if he signs this season.

Owners are seeking to slash contract values and lengths, as well as guarantees. Should they get their wishes and Anthony were to leave for New York, his reported preference, he could be looking at a maximum three-year deal worth perhaps less than $40 million.

'If I sit here and tell you I'm willing to lose $15 to $20 million, then I'd be lying to you. But at the same time, this has never been about money,' Anthony said. 'In my career so far I think I'd have made enough money that I can focus on just trying to win a championship. That's the only thing that's on my plate and on my mind right now.'

The Nets hoped he would think he could do it in Brooklyn, where Anthony was born and where they are scheduled to move in the summer of 2012. The Nets posted three pictures of their Barclays Center in the hallways of the Prudential Center, one to show that they've broken ground in their new home and two that demonstrate what the finished product will look like.

'That was interesting,' an amused Anthony said.

He insists he's not thinking about where he'll be playing on Feb. 25 or next season, and he had no trouble focusing on basketball Monday, when he scored 37 points while being booed every time he touched the ball in the early going.

'He's our foundation, he's our horse and we're having a damn good year, so he should be given a lot of credit for that,' Karl said.

Courtesy of www.denverpost.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA1   


Euro Basket highlights Trinity Western University Point Guard 'Tristan Smith' - by Ozell Wells
Tristan Smith (183-G-86), the starting point guard for the Trinity Western University Mens Basketball team has had a long journey to finding a place called home. As a stand out players at Rolling Hills Preparatory school in Palos Verde, California, winners of three CIF championships and host too many NBA prospects, Tristan maintained a solid work ethic on the court while posting a 3.65 GPA. Tristan was not only a solid player on the court, but also the captain of the robotics team and a phenomenal actor in the many highly taunted theatre plays created for both the school and upstanding community.
This year Tristan brings his talents to the highly seasoned Trinity Western University Mens basketball team that failed to reach the CIS playoffs last season. While sitting out a season in 2010 due to transfer rulings, Tristan took that time to establish himself as a great team leader from the sidelines and a committed team player who has always prided himself on paying close attention to details and always being in prime shape for any challenge he is presented. The Spartans are currently ranked number 4 in the country, the highest ranking in the schools history. This past weekend the Spartans split games with defending national champions Saskatchewan University Huskies. Smith poured in 16 points in 16 minutes. He is currently 5th in the country in steals and 8th in assist. Tristans statistics is nothing short of solid in limited minutes playing time. He currently maintains a 3.65 GPA and is a media communications major. Smith has been the needed energy and experience that the Trinity Western Mens Basketball team has needed in order to experience so much success this year. The Spartans boast a 16-3 record and clinched their first playoff spot in a handful of years, while maintaining a schools best number 4 ranking in the country. Euro basket would like to continue to support the outstanding student athletes both nationally and internationally. Euro basket will continue to follow our spot lighted player Tristan Smith as the season plays out and wish him the best of luck both on and off the court throughout his career with the Spartans. I am sure we will be hearing a lot more from Smith both in Canada and in his post collegiate career in the International market.

Best Wishes,

Euro Basket


WCC Weekly Recap by NetScouts Basketball - by Carl Berman
Ranked Teams: Saint Marys (#24)

Game Recaps: On Thursday, Portland beat San Diego to improve to 3-3 on the year. San Francisco beat Loyola Marymount 61-60, Santa Clara handled Pepperdine, and Saint Marys edged Gonzaga 73-71 to keep its hold on first place in the conference. On Saturday, Portland topped Saint Marys 85-70 to improve to 4-3 in conference play on the season, and give the Gaels their first conference loss, while Gonzaga beat San Diego 86-53 to also move to 4-3 on the year. Santa Clara finiahed a solid week by beating Loyola Marymount 79-72, and Pepperdine beat San Francisco 94-88 to move to 3-4 on the year in the conference.

Player of the Week: Our NetScouts Basketball WCC Player of the Week is 5'10 freshman guard Tim Douglas of the Portland Pilots. In the Pilots two wins this week over San Diego and Saint Marys, Douglas (pictured on right) averaged 20 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. Douglas shot a combined 14-for-24 from the field, including 6-of-8 from three-point range, and 6-of-6 from the free throw line, while playing 29.5 minutes per game. Thanks to two great games from Douglas, the Pilots are now back in contention for the top of the WCC.

International Player of the Week: Marc Trasolini (6'9''-F-90), a 6 foot 9 junior from Santa Clara, is our NetScouts Basketball WCC International Player of the Week. Trasolini (pictured on left), from Vancouver, B.C. averaged 17 points, 5.5 rebounds, and one block per game in two wins for the Broncos this week. He shot an astounding 81% from the field (2-for-3 from three-point range) and a combined 6-of-7 from the free throw line, while playing 23.5 minutes per game.

Game of the Week: San Francisco squeaked by Loyola Marymount 61-60 to stay in second place in the WCC. San Francisco was down 8 points at halftime, and down 17 at one point in the second half, but came back strong to win the game. Rashad Green led San Francisco in all major offensive categories, with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists. Loyola Marymount was led by Ayodeji Egbeyemi who had 15 points and 10 rebounds, and Anthony Ireland who had 6 assists. San Francisco only shot 37% from the field for the game, but had a late surge that put them over the top. San Francisco led 2-0 to start the game, then did not lead again until they had a 60-58 lead with 90 seconds to play. Along with strong play and scoring from Rashad Green, the Dons success came from only committing seven turnovers as opposed to 13 by LMU.

Upcoming Schedule: On Monday, Loyola Marymount will host Seattle University in a non-conference match. On Tuesday, Santa Clara hosts UC Santa Cruz. Conference play will start Thursday with San Diego hosting Loyola Marymount, Saint Marys hosting Pepperdine, and Portland hosting Gonzaga. On Saturday, Gonzaga will host Memphis in a non-conference game. Saint Marys will host Loyola Marymount on that same day, while San Diego hosts Pepperdine and Santa Clara travels to San Francisco to take on the Dons. Portland will also travel to Seattle University to play a non-conference game against the Redhawks.

Related Posts/Players of the Week

(1/24/11) Kevin Foster and Matt Dellavedova

(1/17/11) Robert Sacre

(1/10/11) Mickey McConnell and Matt Dellavedova

(1/3/11) Mickey McConnell and Nemanja Mitrovic

(12/27/10) Kevin Foster and Mitchell Young

(12/20/10) Robert Sacre and Mitchell Young

(12/13/10) Vernon Teel and Robert Sacre

(12/5/10) Keion Bell and Nemanja Mitrovic

This article was written by Correspondent Brycen Breazeale and Managing Partner Carl Berman of NetScouts Basketball. Brycen, Carl and NetScouts Basketball can be followed on twitter @brycenjb, @carlberman and @netscouts.

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


Two former Frost Heaves en route to Saint John - by Eurobasket News
Two former Vermont Frost Heaves players are en route to Saint John: 6'9 power forward Ross DeMasi (6'8''-F-86, college: SW Minnesota St.) and 5'11 point guard Dwuan Rice (5'11''-G, college: CSU Bakersfield).

Demasi was selected by Saint John in the Vermont Dispersal Draft which was held after the Vermont Frost Heaves announced that they had ceased operations. Rice, who was unselected in the draft although he was considered by many to be the best available player, became a free agent.

Both Demasi and Rice have yet to be added to the Saint John Mill Rats active PBL roster.

'Decisions will be made about our active roster just prior to the deadline for Thursday's game,' stated Mill Rats Head Coach Jaren Jackson. 'We wanted to get a look at these guys, see them compete in practice, and also review our health situation before we decide.'

Rice brings a championship pedigree with him. He was MVP of the ABA Finals in 2008 in leading Vermont to their second consecutive league championship. A month later he helped the Idaho Stampede win an NBA Development League title. He is currently the PBL's leader in assists and steals.

Demasi was a PBL All Star last season and should help shore up the Mill Rats rebounding concerns.

The Saint John Mill Rats (2-4) host the division leading Quebec Kebs (6-2) on Thursday night at 7:00pm at Harbour Station.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Snyder leaves Rainmen - by Eurobasket News
Kirk Snyder's (6'6''-F-83, college: Nevada) underwhelming stint with the Halifax Rainmen came to an end yesterday when the ex-NBA starter left the team to pursue another opportunity.

The six-foot-six small forward saw 28 minutes of floor time in three games with the Rainmen, recording six points and missing 14 of 16 shots. Snyder hadnt played pro basketball in almost two years because of legal problems.

Rainmen owner Andre Levingston said Snyder has drawn interest (from a team) in China for some substantial money and that the 27-year-old is headed to Houston to train for the opportunity.

In other news, the Rainmens opponent for Fridays home game will be the Quebec Kebs, 6-2, instead of the Dayton Air Strikers, 2-6. Levingston said the Premier Basketball League requested the change, but didnt give a reason.

Courtesy of www.metronews.ca

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mike WILLIAMS
  Rochester R.
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Williams, Vermo.20.9 
 2. Brown, Quebec K.20.3 
 3. Crouch, Rocheste.18.6 
 4. Martin, Saint J.18.3 
 5. Anderson, Saint J.17.8 
 6. Jones, Kentucky S.17.7 
 7. Miles, Dayton A.17.5 
 8. Parran, Quebec K.16.9 
 9. Egerson, Saint J.16.8 
 10. Allen, Vermont FH16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Eric CROOKSHANK
  Halifax R.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Crookshank, Halif.11.8 
 2. Williams, Vermo.10.3 
 3. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC9.0 
 4. Jones, Halifax R.8.4 
 5. Walton, Rocheste.8.1 
 6. DeMasi, Vermont FH8.0 
 7. Harris, Kentucky S.7.9 
 8. Jackson, Halifax R.7.6 
 9. Dollard, Halifax R.7.4 
 10. Jones, Kentucky S.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Dwuan RICE
  Vermont FH
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Rice, Vermont FH7.6 
 2. Egerson, Saint J.6.8 
 3. Brown, Halifax R.6.4 
 4. Anderson, Saint J.5.7 
 5. Parran, Quebec K.5.6 
 6. Bowden, Lawton F.4.5 
 7. Brown, Quebec K.4.1 
 8. Fountain, Lawton F.4.1 
 9. Acker, Quebec K.3.8 
 10. Hill, Dayton A.3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Royce PARRAN
  Quebec K.
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 3
 1. Parran, Quebec K.3.0 
 2. Rice, Vermont FH3.0 
 3. Anderson, Saint J.2.5 
 4. Brown, Quebec K.2.5 
 5. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC2.4 
 6. Austin, Vermont FH2.0 
 7. Gilchrese, Saint J.1.8 
 8. Miles, Dayton A.1.8 
 9. Perry, Dayton A.1.8 
 10. Martin, Saint J.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Perry STEVENSON
  Rochester R.
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Stevenson, Rocheste.1.5 
 2. George, Dayton A.1.3 
 3. Carter, Rocheste.1.3 
 4. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC1.3 
 5. Ocitti, Saint J.1.2 
 6. Dollard, Halifax R.1.0 
 7. Williams, Vermo.0.9 
 8. Daniels, Lawton F.0.9 
 9. DeMasi, Vermont FH0.8 
 10. Austin, Vermont FH0.7 


Frost Heaves ceased operations - by Gianni Pascucci
(communcation released on the Vermont Frost Heaves website on Jan. 27, 2011)
Go Heaves, Inc. announced on Wednesday, January 26, 2011 that it was ceasing operations immediately. The organization charged with managing the Vermont Frost Heaves has not been able to keep pace with expenses.
'We've worked hard to bring in revenue from a variety of sources, but have not been able to match expenses with revenue', stated Don Mandelkorn, general manager.
'This decision was not made lightly and was done so only after much effort to try to bring things in balance', added Mandelkorn. 'I know this decision will result in a lot of disappointment among our fans and supporters. We have appreciated the support from fans and local businesses, but with overall cash sponsorships down and ticket sales flat, we simply could not meet expenses and cannot function any longer'.
Players will be eligible for a special Premier Basketball League draft on Thursday, January 27, 2011.

Just after this communication, some of the Frost Heaves players joined other PBL teams - Mike Williams (6'7''-F-85, college: Cincinnati) went to Rochester, Julian Allen (6'4''-G-87, college: Georgia Southern) to Halifax, Casaan Breeden (6'8''-F-86, college: Charleston) to Dayton, and Ross DeMasi (6'8''-F-86, college: SW Minnesota St.) and Dwuan Rice (5'11''-G, college: CSU Bakersfield) to Saint John.

*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


Al Ittihad clinch Emirates NDB trophy - by Eurobasket
Egypts Al Ittihad Alexandria Club gave their compatriots back home something to cheer about by emerging victorious in the 22nd Dubai International Basketball Championships for the Emirates NBD Cup concluded at Al Ahli Sports Hall in Dubai on Saturday night.

The Egyptian side from Alexandria, who are have been regulars in this competition, rallied in the third quarter to beat the more fancied Smart Gilas from the Philippines 84-73 in the final.
Syrias Al Wahda claimed third place after their opponents from Lebanon Sagesse failed to turn up for the playoff.
The Dubai Duty Free backed Smart Gilas, who defeated Hoops Club of Lebanon 86-69 in the semifinal, were ahead in the opening quarters 23-21 23-15.
But the First Security Group sponsored Ittihad, fought back in the next two quarters 24-11 27-18 to win the title.
UAE and Al Sharjah lost in the group stages.
In group A, UAE lost to Hoops from Lebanon 88-69, Sagesse 90-69 and Al Ittihad Alexandria from Syriya 73-70.
In group B, Al Sharjah lost to El Ettehad El Sakandary 85-77, Syrias Al Wahda 77-70 and Smart Gilas 92-67.
Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Ismail Gergawi, president of the UAE Basketball Association, distributed the awards.

Courtesy of Emirates247.com

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


Gortat gets real hot for Sun's - by Eurobasket
Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84), known as the Polish Hammer to his teammates, had career highs in his last two games for the Phoenix Suns. The performances helped Phoenix end a three-game losing streak.
Before their game against the Celtics on Friday, the Suns had previously lost three straight to the likes of the Detroit Pistons, Philadelphia 76ers, and Charlotte Bobcats.
Against the powerhouse Boston Celtics and the New Orleans Hornets, the 7 0 center from Poland erupted for two quality games. The Hornets had recently won 10 games in a row.
The Suns surprised Boston. Led by Gortat, he recorded 19 points and 17 rebounds, both career highs, in a surprising 88-71 blowout over the Celtics. After the game, Gortat said, I just tried to play hard and compete. Ive been thinking of a lot of things over the last couple of days, and I appreciate the opportunity I have here. I have a very good coach who gives me a lot of freedom and a lot of playing time. A lot of teammates trust me, and Im grateful I have this opportunity. Im just trying to be productive. I still believe I can do better.
When asked about the difficulty in defending against Shaquille ONeal, Gortat said the following. In Poland, you have 150 kids at a basketball camp; one will ask you what is it like to be an NBA player and the other 149 want to know what its like playing against Shaq. They ask how big is he. Whats his shoe size? How much does he bench press? It was all about Shaq. If I didnt get to play him this year, the kids would be disappointed.
In the next game Gortat even went better. The 26-year old from Lodz followed that Celtics performance by blowing out his previous high score. Off the bench against New Orleans, Gortat hit 9 of 10 shots from the field and 7-7 from the foul line. It was a new career-high of 25 points to help edge out the red hot Hornets, 104-102. He also added 11 boards.
The Suns nearly blew an eight-point lead in the final 18 seconds, but Grant Hill blocked Marcus Thornton's inside attempt with 3.9 seconds left and Hornets guard Chris Paul's desperation 3-point attempt missed the rim as time expired.
Suns guard Goran Dragic is now listed as day-to-day. He didn't play against the Hornets after stepping on glass at his home Saturday. He received nine stitches in his left foot. Phoenix will play Oklahoma on Friday.


By Raymond Rolak



*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL   


Standings - Proliga
Proliga Standings
 1. Barcelos 10-2 
 2. Galitos FC 10-2 
 3. Fisica 9-3 
 4. Sangalhos 9-4 
 5. Angra 9-4 
 6. Terceira Basket 7-6 
 7. Povoa 6-6 
 8. Electrico FC 5-8 
 9. Guifoes 4-8 
 10. Maia Basket 3-9 
 11. Alges 2-10 
 12. Seixal 0-12 


Andrais Thornton in CB Penafiel - by Joao Santos
Andrais Thornton (203-C-85, college: NW Missouri St.) is the new addiction in CBP/Sentir Penafiel roster. The 25 years old and 2.03m player was at Voru KK, averaging 18.7 points, 12.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game.
Andrais Thornton was formed at the University of Northwestern Missouri (NCAA 2) and began his professional career in Landsberg (Germany). Later he headed the Voru KK (Estonia) and in the Baltic League, also represented the Voru KK.

*****************************************************
  QATAR   


Four teams share top position in QBF League - by Eurobasket News
Four teams are in the tie for the top place in QBF League standings. They all share 4-1 record on top of the ladder.
Gharrafah claimed the fourth win edging Arabi 68:62. Arabi led for the major part of the game but could not capitalize. Gharrafah jumped into the lead late in regulation and celebrated a tough win at the end. Chudney Gray (188-G-78, agency: Promotex, college: St.John's) provided 22 points to pace the winners. Omar Abd added 21 points and 16 rebounds in the victory. Michael Cuffee (193-F-83, college: Middle Tenn.St.) responded with 25 points for Arabi. Fahad Abdulla provided 14 points in defeat.
Rayyan were back into winning ways as they crushed Jaysh 91:73. Targuy Ngombo (196-F-89, agency: Court Side) knocked down 29 points and collected 10 rebounds to help the defending champions hand Jaysh the first defeat in the season. Yasseen Musa provided 22 points in the victory. Tierre Brown (188-G-79, college: McNeese St.) had with 17 points, 9 rebounds and 9 assists for Rayyan. Baker Ahmad Mohammed (199-F-86) answered with game-high 33 points for Jaysh.
Sadd knocked down Ahli 74:61. Maurice Hargrow (195-G-83, college: Minnesota) delivered 31 points but he could not rescue Ahli from losing their third game this season. Tyler Hughes (213-F-84, college: Kansas St.) came up with 18 points and 11 rebounds to propel Sadd to the win. Khalid Suliman Abdi (198-F/G-87) added 17 points in the victory.
Finally Qatar silenced Wakrah 74:67. Oumar Seck and Mike Cook (193-G/F-84, college: Pittsburgh) finished with 26 points each for Sadd. Jayson Obazuaye (188-G-84, agency: ANR Sports Management, college: Colorado) answered with 24 points for Wakrah.


Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Al Gharrafah 4-1 
 2. Al Rayyan 4-1 
 3. As Sadd 4-1 
 4. Al Jaysh 4-1 
 5. Al Ahli 2-3 
 6. Qatar 2-3 
 7. Al Arabi 0-5 
 8. Al Wakrah 0-5 


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


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 LeRoy DAWSON
  Politehnica Iasi
  (188-G-81)
  Avg: 21.6
 1. Dawson, Polite.21.6 
 2. Dykes, U.Mobite.19.8 
 3. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.19.6 
 4. Vujacic, Pitesti19.0 
 5. Scott, Otopeni18.8 
 6. Wohlleb, Craiova18.5 
 7. Darby, Rovinari18.2 
 8. Tomic, CSM B.17.6 
 9. Seals, CSU Sibiu16.9 
 10. McCullough, Polite.16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kenneth SIMMS
  Craiova
  (203-C-)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Simms, Craiova11.6 
 2. Nicoara, Gaz Metan11.1 
 3. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.9.8 
 4. Burlacu, Ploiesti9.5 
 5. Forte, Mures9.2 
 6. Coleman, Miercurea8.8 
 7. Paltinisanu, Timis.8.1 
 8. Mladenovic, Mures8.1 
 9. Scott, Otopeni7.9 
 10. Eichelberger, Pitesti7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rade DZAMBIC
  Timisoara
  (188-G-80)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Dzambic, CSM B.7.9 
 2. Cooley, Mures6.9 
 3. Blidaru, Ploiesti5.7 
 4. Howell, Gaz Metan5.3 
 5. Stojakovic, Craiova5.2 
 6. Medvedj, Otopeni4.9 
 7. Gennie, Pitesti4.6 
 8. Maric, Oradea4.5 
 9. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN4.3 
 10. Tucker, Miercurea3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Adrian BLIDARU
  Ploiesti
  (182-G-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Blidaru, Ploiesti2.6 
 2. Paliciuc, Brasov2.6 
 3. Gennie, Pitesti2.6 
 4. Mitchell, Gaz Metan2.6 
 5. Stojakovic, Craiova2.5 
 6. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN2.4 
 7. Cooley, Mures2.4 
 8. Harrison, CSU Sibiu2.4 
 9. Howell, Gaz Metan2.3 
 10. Dykes, U.Mobite.2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Michael HARRISON
  CSU Sibiu
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Harrison, CSU Sibiu2.2 
 2. Eichelberger, Pitesti1.9 
 3. Capusan, Rovinari1.6 
 4. Mladenovic, Mures1.5 
 5. Lazar, Oradea1.5 
 6. Masiulis, CSU S.1.5 
 7. Simms, Craiova1.2 
 8. Dumitru, Mures1.1 
 9. Vajda, Miercurea1.0 
 10. Miskovic, Timisoara1.0 


*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   


Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Keith LANGFORD
  Khimky
  (193-G/F-83)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Langford, Khimky19.3 
 2. Williams, Enisey17.6 
 3. Domercant, Spart.15.8 
 4. Popovic, Unics15.6 
 5. Lyday, Unics14.9 
 6. Labovic, Enisey14.6 
 7. Wilkinson, Lokomotiv14.5 
 8. Paunic, N.Novgorod14.1 
 9. Baxter, Enisey14.0 
 10. Lampe, Unics13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeremiah MASSEY
  Lokomotiv
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 8
 1. Massey, Lokomotiv8.0 
 2. Zhukanenko, Dynamo6.8 
 3. Wilkinson, Lokomotiv6.5 
 4. Brezec, Krasnie .6.2 
 5. Baxter, Enisey6.2 
 6. Monya, Khimky6.1 
 7. Lampe, Unics6.0 
 8. Vorontsevich, CSKA5.9 
 9. Labovic, Enisey5.9 
 10. Likhodey, Triumph5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Anton PONKRASHOV
  Spartak SP
  (200-G-86)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Ponkrashov, Spart.6.9 
 2. Williams, Enisey6.0 
 3. Planinic, Khimky5.0 
 4. Bremer, Krasnie .4.9 
 5. Khvostov, Dynamo4.7 
 6. Samoylenko, Unics4.2 
 7. Popovic, Unics4.0 
 8. Rush, Krasnie Krilya3.4 
 9. Chalmers, Lokom.3.3 
 10. Aleksic, N.Novgorod3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Dijon THOMPSON
  Spartak SP
  (201-G/F-83)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Thompson, Spart.2.4 
 2. Voronov, Dynamo1.8 
 3. Green, Krasnie Krilya1.6 
 4. Massey, Lokomotiv1.6 
 5. Lyday, Unics1.5 
 6. Wilkinson, Lokomotiv1.5 
 7. Surovtsev, Lokom.1.5 
 8. Ponkrashov, Spart.1.5 
 9. McCarty, Unics1.5 
 10. Labovic, Enisey1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Sergey VARLAMOV
  Triumph
  (207-C-84)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Varlamov, Triumph1.3 
 2. Monya, Khimky1.2 
 3. Eze, Khimky1.1 
 4. Antonov, N.Novgorod1.1 
 5. Sokolov, CSKA1.1 
 6. Vranes, Unics1.1 
 7. Likhodey, Triumph1.0 
 8. Zhukanenko, Dynamo0.9 
 9. Davidson, Krasni.0.9 
 10. Yakovenko, N.Nov.0.9 


Jeremiah Massey gets MVP of the Week award for Russian PBL - by Eurobasket News
American-FYR Macedonian Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82) had an amazing evening in the last round for Lokomotiv Kuban and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 11.
The 28-year old forward had the game-high 15 points adding nine rebounds and two assists for Lokomotiv in his team's victory, helping them to crush N.Novgorod (#10, 3-8) with 17-point margin 73-56. Lokomotiv maintains the 3rd position in Russian PBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Lokomotiv will need more victories to improve their 8-3 record. Massey turned to be Lokomotiv's top player in his first season with the team. Kansas State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Massey leads league in rebounds with 8.0rpg. Massey

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old American center Lonny Baxter (203-C-79, agency: Priority Sports) of Enisey Krasnoyarsk. Baxter impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 19 points and 13 rebounds. Bad luck as Enisey lost that game 58-81 to the higher-ranked CSKA (#1, 9-2). Enisey 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 5-6 record. Baxter is a newcomer at Enisey 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 14.0ppg (#9). He also registered 6.2 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was former international guard Alexey Shved (196-G-88, agency: Alti Sport) of top-ranked CSKA Moscow. Shved showcased his all-around game by recording 13 points, six rebounds and five assists in the last round. He was a key player of CSKA, leading his team to a 81-58 easy win against the lower-ranked Enisey (#6, 5-6). CSKA confirms their top position in the standings Shved has a very solid season. In 10 games in Russia he scored 6.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79) of Unics - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Gerald Green (203-G/F-86) of Krasnie Krilya - 20 points and 10 rebounds
6. Dijon Thompson (201-G/F-83) of Spartak SP - 15 points and 5 rebounds
7. Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) of Khimky - 11 points, 2 rebounds and 9 assists
8. Aleksei Kurcevich (210-C-89) of Triumph - 12 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Artem Yakovenko (206-F-88) of N.Novgorod - 11 points and 10 rebounds
10. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) of Unics - 12 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists

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

Varnakov debuted for Triumph - by Eurobasket News
Alexander Varnakov (185-G-92) debuted for Triumph as the Russian Guard and his Triumph Lyubertsy managed to get a third victory, breaking the series of five consecutive loses on Saturday night. This time they won against fourth-ranked Spartak St.Petersburg in Lubertsy 88-79. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 59-48 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. 32 personal fouls committed by Spartak St.Petersburg helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities.
Earlier Alexander Varnakov played for Triumph 2 and was a member of Russian U16 National Team -08, participated at the European Championships U16 in Italy -08 and in 8 games averaged 10.8ppg, 5.0rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 55.6%. Later he was a member of Russian U18 National Team -10, participated at the European Championships U18 in Vilnius (Lithuania) -10 (Silver) and in 9 games averaged 9.3ppg, 3.9rpg, Assists-2 (5.3apg), Steals-2 (2.1spg), FGP: 36.2%, 3PT: 27.3%, FT: 72.7%.

BK Prostejov surprise Lokomotiv Kuban, tie them at 1-2 - by Eurobasket News
BK Prostejov-Lokomotiv Kuban 67:66

BK Prostejov surprised Lokomotiv Kuban at home to tie them at 1-2 records in Group L of Eurochallenge. The home side upset one of the favorites of the tournament 67:66due to the last period.
In a low scoring first quarter the teams paid too much attention to defense. Bertengeh Cadri-Nicholson (208-C-83, college: Denver) made a jump shot to close the first period at 10-13. The hosts struggled to eat into the Lokomotiv Kuban lead during the second quarter and managed to take the advantage. Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86, college: St.John's) nailed three for 20:13 and Zagorac brought 28:21. Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) however closed a 9-0 run for Kuban, while Eugene Lawrence kept the hosts in front at 33:29 at the halftime. Due to 23-11 in the third period Lokomotiv took 52:44 lead after Jeremiah Massey another shot. BK Prostejov however finally got their reward in the last quarter. Trailing 52:60, the team from Czech Republic cut it to 61:62 and then grabbed the lead. Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) tied the game at 66:66 with 30 seconds to go, while Eugene Lawrence made the final basket for the hosts.
Eugene Lawrence top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) added 16. Bertengeh Cadri-Nicholson notched 11, while Kyle Landry (206-F-86, college: N.Arizona) collected 6 points and 13 rebounds. Jeremiah Massey delivered 23points in the losing effort and Michael Wilkinson had 15 points and 10 rebounds.

BK Prostejov: Eugene Lawrence 19, Benas Veikalas 16, Bertengeh Cadri-Nicholson 11, Kyle Landry 6+13 rebs
Lokomotiv Kuban: Jeremiah Massey 23, Michael Wilkinson 15+10 rebs


Unics eke out win in Serbia - by Eurobasket News
Hemofarm - Unics 83:84

Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) scored 28 points and Unics celebrated the third straight win at EuroCup Last 16. They upset Hemofarm in Serbia tonight. The victory propelled Unics at 3-0 record on top of Group I. Hemofarm fell at 1-2 record in the ladder.
Hemofarm looked dominant in the first quarter. The Serbian team spurred in front to post a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. But Unics quickly bounced back. Led by Terrell Lyday the Russian powerhouse erased the deficit and posted a 38:37 lead at halftime. Unics stayed in front throughout the third term. They accumulated a 59:55 lead at the final break. Hemofarm drew things level late in regulation 83:83 but Unics managed to escape with a narrow one-point win at the end. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) produced 17 points and 11 rebounds for Unics. Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) and Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) added 14 points each in the win. Boris Savovic (206-F-87) answered with 22 points and 8 rebounds for Hemofarm. Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 19 points and 9 assists in defeat.

Hemofarm: Boris Savovic 22, Miljan Pavkovic 19
Unics: Terrell Lyday 28, Vladimir Veremeenko 17+11 boards, Kelly McCarty 14, Maciej Lampe 14


Spartak destroy Maccabi Haifa to open EuroChallenge Last 16 Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Spartak-Maccabi Haifa 101:60

Spartak destroy Maccabi Haifa to open EuroChallenge Day 3 in St.Petersburg. An easy start allowed the Russian team celebrate 101:60 win for the perfect record in Group I.
Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) brought the first three points for the hosts that never looked behind in the game. He also scored the last 7 points in the opening period for hiss die to give them 33:18 advantage. In the second frame however the guests replied with 15-11 as Killingsworth reduced to 42:33. Dragovic opened the third frame from the perimeter and the court belonged later only to the home side. With 30-12 in it Spartak reached 74:45 after three periods. Jackson and Boris Rothbart (218-C-86, agency: Avi Zilberman) reduced to 74:49, while Korchagin and Zozulin scored for 95:56. Antic gave three digit-number for the home side in the end and Landesberg made the final score in the campaign.
Henry Domercant paced all the winners with 21 points, while Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86) and Patrick Beverley (185-G-88, college: Arkansas) delivered 13 points apiece. Killingsworth ended up with 13 points in the losing effort and Boris Rothbart scored 10.

Spartak: Henry Domercant 21, Anton Ponkrashov 13, Patrick Beverley 13
Maccabi Haifa: Killingsworth 13, Boris Rothbart 10


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


Unics eke out win in Serbia - by Eurobasket News
Hemofarm - Unics 83:84

Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) scored 28 points and Unics celebrated the third straight win at EuroCup Last 16. They upset Hemofarm in Serbia tonight. The victory propelled Unics at 3-0 record on top of Group I. Hemofarm fell at 1-2 record in the ladder.
Hemofarm looked dominant in the first quarter. The Serbian team spurred in front to post a 24:17 lead after ten minutes. But Unics quickly bounced back. Led by Terrell Lyday the Russian powerhouse erased the deficit and posted a 38:37 lead at halftime. Unics stayed in front throughout the third term. They accumulated a 59:55 lead at the final break. Hemofarm drew things level late in regulation 83:83 but Unics managed to escape with a narrow one-point win at the end. Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) produced 17 points and 11 rebounds for Unics. Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) and Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) added 14 points each in the win. Boris Savovic (206-F-87) answered with 22 points and 8 rebounds for Hemofarm. Miljan Pavkovic (178-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 19 points and 9 assists in defeat.

Hemofarm: Boris Savovic 22, Miljan Pavkovic 19
Unics: Terrell Lyday 28, Vladimir Veremeenko 17+11 boards, Kelly McCarty 14, Maciej Lampe 14


Radnicki Kragujevac brings back Vukasin Aleksic - by Zoran Popovic
After half of the season in Russian team BC Nizhny Novgorod Vukasin Aleksic (182-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) came back to Radnicki Kragujevac. On 8 games played in EuroChallenge cup Aleksic average scored 8.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists, on 9 games in Russian league 5.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists. Aleksic started professional career in Hemofarm Vrsac, played for KK Swisslions Takovo Lions Vrsac, Avala Ada, Zdravlje Leskovac, Partizan Beograd and Radnicki Kragujevac. Aleksic was member of Yugoslavian, Serbia and Montenegro U16, U18 National team and Serbian University National team.

Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Nikola KOPRIVICA
  Iraklis
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Koprivica, Super.20.7 
 2. Milisavljevi., Mega V.20.4 
 3. Janjusevic, Crnok.18.8 
 4. Bunic, Novi Sad18.3 
 5. Micevic, Sloboda .17.9 
 6. Bozovic, Sloga17.4 
 7. Sulovic, Napredak16.8 
 8. Sinovec, Metalac16.7 
 9. Majkic, Prolet.16.5 
 10. Atanackovic, Prolet.15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nikola MARKOVIC
  FMP
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Markovic, FMP8.1 
 2. Ljubicic, Metalac7.1 
 3. Misanovic, Beograd6.9 
 4. Spica, Superfund6.6 
 5. Jelovac, Mega V.6.5 
 6. Bozovic, Sloga6.4 
 7. Cubrilo, Sloga6.4 
 8. Sulovic, Napredak6.3 
 9. Djurovic, Crnokosa6.3 
 10. Dedijer, Borac6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Vid ZARKOVIC
  Proleter Naftagas
  (189-G-75)
  Avg: 6
 1. Zarkovic, Prolet.6.0 
 2. Ljubicic, Metalac5.4 
 3. Vlahovic, Sloga5.4 
 4. Milisavljevi., Mega V.5.2 
 5. Radivojevic, FMP5.1 
 6. Covic, FMP4.6 
 7. Atanackovic, Prolet.4.3 
 8. Djoric, Superfund4.3 
 9. Radulovic, Crnokosa4.2 
 10. Mitrovic, Beograd3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Slobodan DUNDJERSKI
  Beograd
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Dundjerski, Beograd2.5 
 2. Kuzeta, Novi Sad2.5 
 3. Ljubicic, Metalac2.4 
 4. Marjanovic, Vojvo.2.3 
 5. Gagovic, Prolet.2.3 
 6. Bocka, Crnokosa1.8 
 7. Vlahovic, Sloga1.7 
 8. Sulovic, Napredak1.7 
 9. Tresac, Borac1.7 
 10. Zarkovic, Prolet.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Nenad MISANOVIC
  T.E.Kashan
  (217-C-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Misanovic, Beograd1.9 
 2. Ilic, FMP1.5 
 3. Bircevic, Metalac1.3 
 4. Majkic, Prolet.1.3 
 5. Marjanovic, Vojvo.1.1 
 6. Buric, Tamis1.0 
 7. Ljubojevic, Slobod.0.8 
 8. Dedijer, Borac0.7 
 9. Dramicanin, Mega V.0.7 
 10. Jevtovic, Sloboda .0.7 


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA   


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Adam MCCOY
  Svit
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 26.4
 1. McCoy, Svit26.4 
 2. Booker, Prievidza23.1 
 3. Burrows, Komarno22.5 
 4. Fears, Prievidza22.2 
 5. Carter, Vahostav.20.1 
 6. Delic, Handlova20.1 
 7. Sapp, Pezinok19.6 
 8. Tomek, Nitra19.4 
 9. Jackson, Komarno19.2 
 10. Johnson, Nova Ves18.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Branislav TOMEK
  Nitra
  (205-C-83)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Tomek, Nitra12.4 
 2. Jackson, Komarno11.2 
 3. Erwin, Nitra9.3 
 4. Delic, Handlova9.2 
 5. Johnson, Nova Ves8.6 
 6. Carter, Vahostav.8.2 
 7. Micuda, Pezinok8.1 
 8. Velcic, B.Bystrica8.0 
 9. Dorazil, Svit7.5 
 10. Burrows, Komarno7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Ronald MOORE
  Nitra
  (183-G-88)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Moore, Nitra6.9 
 2. Jones, Komarno6.4 
 3. Jefferson, Nova Ves5.8 
 4. Booker, Prievidza5.5 
 5. Kostomaj, Levice5.0 
 6. Gavlak, Handlova4.6 
 7. Sapp, Pezinok4.2 
 8. Milosevic, Pezinok4.1 
 9. Wheeler, Inter B.4.1 
 10. Fears, Prievidza3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremy FEARS
  Prievidza
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Fears, Prievidza2.9 
 2. Carter, Vahostav.2.5 
 3. Moore, Nitra2.3 
 4. Nuber, Handlova2.2 
 5. Sapp, Pezinok2.1 
 6. Velcic, B.Bystrica2.1 
 7. Jefferson, Nova Ves2.0 
 8. Jones, Komarno2.0 
 9. Kucsa, Inter B.1.7 
 10. Zavodny, Vahost.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Peter MICUDA
  Inter Bratislava
  (206-C-72)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Micuda, Pezinok1.9 
 2. Jackson, Komarno1.4 
 3. Mroz, Nova Ves1.3 
 4. Batka, Nova Ves1.3 
 5. Carter, Vahostav.0.9 
 6. Tomek, Nitra0.8 
 7. Lukjanec, Pezinok0.8 
 8. Burrows, Komarno0.8 
 9. Golian, Handlova0.8 
 10. Gavran, Inter B.0.8 


Peter Micuda became another player to move from Pezinok to Inter Bratislava - by Eurobasket News
Peter Micuda (206-C-72) became another player to move from Pezinok to Inter Bratislava. In 2005-2006 he already played for BK ASK Inter Slovnaft Bratislava (Extraliga, starting five) and in 27 games averaged 15.3ppg, Reb-2 (8.7rpg), 2.0apg, 2.3spg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 30.0%, 3PT: 33.8%, FT: 68.6%.
The last few years Peter Micuda spent with Pezinok. In 2008-2009 after 31 games he averaged 11.2ppg, Reb-4 (7.0rpg), 1.2apg, Blocks-2 (1.4bpg), 2FGP: 62.6%, 3PT: 26.5%, FT: 67.5%. In 2009-2010 after 47 games his stats showed 10.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 59.2%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 73.8%, while this season he had 11.7 points per game before the team team folded in Dec.'10.
This season Peter Micuda recorded 22 points and 10 rebounds Pezinok crushed Bystrica with a record 93-68. Former international center Peter Micuda stepped up with double-double 22 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and American guard Jessie Sapp helped with 15 points and 5 rebounds.


*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Krka wins over the Giants in the defensive style - by Eurobasket News
Krka-Antwerp Giants 62:46

Krka wins over the Giants in the defensive style in Eurochallenge Last 16 Day 3. The Slovenian underdogs improved to 2-1 record after 62:46 win.
Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Canisius) opened the game for the guests and he also closed the period at 12:10. Another seven baskets in a row from the player brought 21;16 lead for his team midway through the second period. Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80) and Jure Balazic (204-F-80) meanwhile closed the second frame to taste 28:24 halftime advantage. Antwerp Giants could not score for about minutes in the game, while Novo Mesto went on a 24-0 run bridging the second and third quarters. Drobnjak made it 42:24 and only Roel Moors (190-G-78, agency: Agency No 10) broke the silence for the visitors. Djordjevic closed the period at 46:30 and after 16-16 in the last quarter Krka celebrated the necessary win. Smiljan Pavic made a jump shot to be the last player to score in the game.
Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Purdue) paced all the winners with 17 points and Smiljan Pavic nailed 11. Edo Muric (202-F-91) ended up with 10 points, while Jure Balazic scored 6. Darnell Wilson replied with 23 points in the losing effort, whilst Roel Moors notched 11.

Krka: Christopher Booker 17, Smiljan Pavic 11, Edo Muric 10, Jure Balazic 6
Antwerp Giants: Darnell Wilson 23, Roel Moors 11



*****************************************************
  SOUTH AFRICA   


National Lottery Board hosts a FIBA Young Coaches Clinic in Johannesburg - by Tshepo Ditshego
On the 22 January 2011, Basketball South Africa (BSA) supported by the National Lottery Board hosted a FIBA Young Coaches Module 1 coaching clinic in Johannesburg. Coaches from all 9 provinces, University Sport South Africa (USSA), Schools Sport Structure and South African National Defence Force (SANDF) where taken through 4 days of intense coaching fundamentals training. All Provinces adhered to Basketball South Africas call for transformation by sending one male and one female coach to the Clinic.

The FIBA Young Coaches Module 1 was instructed by Dr Dele Akpata - who is currently the Director of Culture, Sports and Recreation at the University of Botswana. Dr Akpata also holds positions in CUCSA, FASU and FISU.

According to Dr Akpata, the FIBA Young coaches Module is meant for people with the unique talents and passion to teach and coach the youth.
The Young Coaches clinic as it has come to be called is broken down into 2-levels. After receiving completion certificates of the Level 1 program, the attendees will need to serve the field with this qualification for a year. After completing a full-year service, then the Level 2 module can be attained. After completing the second level/module of the clinic, then the individual receives a prestigious FIBA accredited certificate, which stands ground globally!

When asked about the future of basketball development on the continent, Dr Akpata replied, We need to invest more in youth programmes, especially at Primary School level. Basketball needs to be played at these levels.

Dr Akpata has experience in basketball development programmes all-across Africa, including: Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, Kenya, Tanzania and Malawi.
Mr. Zanele Ngwenya, Treasurer-General for BSA, highlighted that the main objective of the clinic was to improve the level of coaching in the Republic of South Africa and to give South African coaches proper accredited qualification for coaching basketball in South Africa. He also highlighted that BSA will have another Young coaches clinic module 1 later in the year to increase the base of coaches in South Africa.

The clinic came to an end with a theory and practical exam taken on the 26 January 2011 at the Mandeville Basketball Centre in Johannesburg. Those that pass the module will thus qualify to partake in the Young Coaches Module 2 to be held next year after Coaches have implemented the coaching education given to them by Dr Akpata.
Article written by KP Ndlovu on behalf of Basketball South Africa


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


2011 KBL ALL-STAR RECAP - by Aaron Haynes
Whats up Eurobasket fans? Its Haynes Aaron (201-F-81, college: Boise St.) back again as my team Seoul Samsung Thunders head into the last quarter of our season. This weekend was the KBL ALL-STAR game and festivities and I thought it would be cool to give you all a weekend recap from a players perspective.

The KBL really put a lot of time and effort into making ALL STAR WEEKEND a great event for the fans and the players which was great because in the end thats who its about, the fans! Since this was my first time as an all-star I really enjoyed myself and had a great time getting to meet the fans and interact with them. Despite it being way past cold , the KBL had a tent set up outside of the arena for us to hand out hot chocolate to fans. Despite the heaters that were put up in the tent, it was still so cold that one fan told me to hurry up LOL. It is amazing how into the players and the event the fans from all over South Korea are. I am sure the NBA All-Star Weekend draws more people but I dont know if I can say they are more enthusiastic. I cant even count how many autographs and pictures we all took this weekend. The fans had Olympic Indoor Stadium rocking!! It really was a great environment all weekend.

Before the actual game took place, the KBL held a dunk contest. The guys had some pretty nice dunks but in the end my teammate Eric Sandrine won. Seoul Samsung Thunders was definitely representing. As it was time for the game, the guys were really loose and I was excited to get the chance to play with the guys we always play against. It was a lot of fun being around all the guys and just talking about different experiences we have all had during our seasons abroad. The game I have to say was nothing like our regular season or playoff games in the KBL. Everyone was there just to have fun and enjoy the experience. There was not much defense being played through out the game but the closer it got to the 4th quarter, the more defense we started to play. I mean we are professionals which mean we are competitivein the end fun or no fun, you want to win.

Needless to say, my team won and that was the icing on the cake for me. My first all-star game in the KBL came with great fan interaction, great guys, really nice uniforms that I plan to have framed, and memories that I will always have. Overall, it was a great weekend and now its time to focus on positioning ourselves well in the playoffs and making that run for the championship! Until next time, be safe and be blessed.


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


Cedevita outlast Gran Canaria in overtime - by Eurobasket News
Cedevita - Gran Canaria 114:110 (OT)

Cedevita stayed in the race for EuroCup playoffs. They held off Gran Canaria in overtime thriller tonight. The victory gave Cedevita the first win at Last 16 stage. They caught up with Gran Canaria at 1-2 record in Group I. Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) erupted for impressive 35 points in the victory.
Gran Canaria and Cedevita got to a flying start. The buckets were dropping from everywhere in the first quarter as the teams teamed up for 54 points. Gran Canaria proved a bit more accurate as they posted a 28:26 lead after ten minutes. The Spaniards maintained the lead throughout the second stanza. Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) was a usual contributor for the visitors as they recorded a 6-point lead at halftime 49:43. Cedevita started to turn it up in the third quarter. They slowed their opponents down and cut the distance to 4 points. Cedevita exploded with 32 points in the fourth term and eventually drew things level to force overtime. Damjan Rudez continued to drain triples in the extra period and Cedevita finally tamed Gran Canaria for the initial win in Group I. Bracey Wright (191-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Indiana) produced 24 points, while Corsley Edwards (205-C/F-79, agency: Impact Basketball, college: Cent.Conn.St.) had 18 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Jaycee Carroll responded with 28 points for Gran Canaria. Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Cedevita: Damjan Rudez 35, Bracey Wright 24, Corsley Edwards 18
Gran Canaria: Jaycee Carroll 28, Sitapha Savane 16


Cajasol march on in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol - ALBA 76:67

Cajasol claimed the third consecutive victory in EuroCup Last 16 round. They defeated visiting ALBA today. The victory gave Cajasol 3-0 record on top of Group L. Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) scored 17 points to lead the hosts.
ALBA prevailed in the starting quarter. They outscored the hosts to post a narrow 20:19 lead at the first intermission. Things got even better for the visitors in the second term. ALBA enlarged the gap to 4 points 39:35 at the interval. But Cajasol turned things upside down in the third stanza. The hosts changed the complexion of the game. They limited the Berlin outfit to 13 points registering a comfortable 9-point lead at the final break. Tomas Satoransky (199-G/F-91) and Paul Davis led the hosts in the fourth quarter and Cajasol secured the winning outcome at the end. Tomas Satoransky provided 14 points, while Tariq Kirksay (199-F-79, college: Iona) and Mindaugas Katelynas (205-F-83, college: Chattanooga) added 10 points each in the win. Patrick Femerling (216-C-75, college: Washington) responded with 14 points for ALBA. Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) netted 11 points in defeat.

Cajasol: Paul Davis 17, Tomas Satoransky 14, Tariq Kirksay 10, Mindaugas Katelynas 10
ALBA: Patrick Femerling 14, Derrick Allen 11


Pepsi Caserta nip Estudiantes - by Eurobasket News
Pepsi Caserta - Estudiantes 87:85

Pepsi Caserta cleared off on top of EuroCup Last 16 Group K. They held off Estudiantes to improve at 3-0 record worth the top position in the ladder. Estudiantes fell at 2-1 record just behind the Italian side. Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) scored 17 points to lead the winners.
It was a close battle from start to finish. The hosts grabbed a 25:22 lead after ten minutes. Pepsi Caserta got away midway through the second term. They posted a 44:32 lead but Estudiantes reacted adequately. The visitors sparked a 12:3 run that put them as close as three points at halftime 44:47. Nik Caner-Medley and Welsch put the visitors in front early in the third term. The Spaniards maintained the advantage and headed into the fourth period up by two points 63:61. Pepsi Caserta quickly organized a 10:0 rally to regain the lead. Estudiantes stayed close till the final seconds but Oliver missed a buzzer-beater and Pepsi Caserta sneaked to a narrow victory at the end. Jumaine Jones (202-F-79, college: Georgia) provided 15 points and 8 rebounds, while Timothy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) had 14 in the win. German Gabriel (207-C-80) replied with 20 points and 9 boards for Estudiantes. Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan) chipped in 16 points in defeat.

Pepsi Caserta: Ebi Ere 17, Jumaine Jones 15, Timothy Bowers 14
Estudiantes: German Gabriel 20, Josh Asselin 16


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


Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings
 1. Sundsvall 20-5 
 2. LF Basket 18-8 
 3. Norrkoping 16-7 
 4. Sodertalje 16-8 
 5. Uppsala 13-10 
 6. Solna 11-14 
 7. Boras 9-16 
 8. Jamtland 8-16 
 9. 08 6-17 
 10. Eco Orebro 4-20 


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Darius HARGROVE
  Jamtland
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Hargrove, Jamtland21.7 
 2. Smith, Sodertalje20.7 
 3. Rush, Sundsvall20.5 
 4. Smith, Uppsala19.7 
 5. Gunnarsson, Solna19.1 
 6. Wesby, Sundsvall18.9 
 7. McCoy, Boras18.8 
 8. Palm, Boras17.5 
 9. Klaric, Jamtland17.0 
 10. Kjellbom, Norrkoping16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Hlynur BAERINGSSON
  Sundsvall
  (200-F/C-82)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Baeringsson, Sunds.11.2 
 2. McKnight, Boras9.1 
 3. Palm, Boras9.1 
 4. Kosmalski, Solna8.6 
 5. Kjellbom, Norrkoping7.8 
 6. Walker, Solna7.7 
 7. Kohlmaier, Uppsala7.6 
 8. Cipriano, Eco O.7.3 
 9. Jonzen, Uppsala6.8 
 10. Klaric, Jamtland6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Mbemba, LF Basket6.3 
 2. Pleick, Eco Orebro5.4 
 3. Beck, 084.9 
 4. Mitchell, Norrkoping4.5 
 5. Frier, Uppsala4.5 
 6. Hargrove, Jamtland4.4 
 7. Gaidamaviciu., Norrko.4.3 
 8. Hellgren, Jamtland4.3 
 9. McCoy, Boras4.3 
 10. Chuk, Sodertalje4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Smith, Sodertalje3.9 
 2. Mbemba, LF Basket3.5 
 3. Hellgren, Jamtland2.2 
 4. Smith, Uppsala2.1 
 5. Rush, Sundsvall2.1 
 6. Wesby, Sundsvall1.9 
 7. Baeringsson, Sunds.1.9 
 8. Frier, Uppsala1.9 
 9. McCoy, Boras1.8 
 10. Pleick, Eco Orebro1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Bilal SALAAM
  Jamtland
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Salaam, Jamtland2.0 
 2. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.9 
 3. Palm, Boras1.7 
 4. Rosendahl, LF Ba.1.6 
 5. Kohlmaier, Uppsala1.3 
 6. Cipriano, Eco O.1.1 
 7. Walker, Solna1.1 
 8. Ayuba, Norrkoping1.1 
 9. Galick, Sodertalje0.9 
 10. Mosley, Eco Orebro0.8 


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Stats Leaders LNA
Points Per Game
 Shorown GLOVER
  Boncourt
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 22
 1. Glover, Boncourt22.0 
 2. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.21.6 
 3. Abukar, Lugano T.21.2 
 4. Reid, Monthey20.6 
 5. Brown, Starwings20.6 
 6. Polyblank, Geneve L.20.1 
 7. Popovich, SAV V.19.1 
 8. Smith, Fribourg18.7 
 9. Yates, Starwings18.6 
 10. Martin, BBC Nyon18.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 13.4
 1. Daniels, BBC Nyon13.4 
 2. Yates, Starwings10.0 
 3. Ofoegbu, SAM M.10.0 
 4. Thompson, Starw.9.9 
 5. Gugino, Boncourt9.4 
 6. Reid, Monthey9.3 
 7. Sloan, Geneve Lions8.1 
 8. Smith, Fribourg8.1 
 9. Dos Santos, Bonco.8.1 
 10. Toure, Geneve Lions7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo6.9 
 2. Glover, Boncourt5.9 
 3. Brown, Starwings4.9 
 4. Hollins, Starwings4.8 
 5. Draughan, Lugano T.4.5 
 6. Angley, Lugano T.4.4 
 7. Ross, Geneve Lions4.1 
 8. Petkovic, Fribourg4.1 
 9. Sharper, Monthey4.1 
 10. Esterkamp, Fribo.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Shorown GLOVER
  Boncourt
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Glover, Boncourt4.1 
 2. Gibson, SAV Vacallo3.6 
 3. Hunte, BBC Nyon3.3 
 4. Angley, Lugano T.2.8 
 5. Draughan, Lugano T.2.7 
 6. Gugino, Boncourt2.6 
 7. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.2.5 
 8. Sharper, Monthey2.3 
 9. Hawkins, SAM M.2.2 
 10. Efevberha, Lugano T.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Daniels, BBC Nyon3.3 
 2. Toure, Geneve Lions2.4 
 3. Gugino, Boncourt1.7 
 4. Lukic, Zurich W.1.7 
 5. Thompson, Starw.1.4 
 6. Sloan, Geneve Lions1.3 
 7. Sanders, Lugano T.1.1 
 8. Moris, Monthey1.1 
 9. Ferguson, Zurich W.0.9 
 10. Vogt, Fribourg0.9 


LNA Round 18: Fribourg loses to Boncourt - by Eurobasket News
The most important game in the last round took place in Boncourt between second ranked Fribourg (12-6) and sixth ranked Boncourt (9-9) on Sunday night. Fribourg was defeated by Boncourt in a tough game on the road 82-86. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 30-20. But Fribourg won second period 23-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for Belgian forward Douglas Tshomba (201-F-83, college: Tusculum) who led his team to a victory with 29 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). American center Tony Gugino (207-86, college: Hillsdale) contributed with 13 points, 16 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. American forward Steve Smith (200-81, college: Iona) replied with 24 points and 9 rebounds for Fribourg. Boncourt maintains sixth position with 9-9 record. Fribourg at the other side keeps the second place with six games lost. They share the position with Geneve Lions.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked SAV Vacallo (11-7) against seventh ranked SAM Massagno (8-10) on Saturday night. Host SAV Vacallo was defeated by SAM Massagno in Chiasso 80-68. American guard Ali Farokhmanesh (183-88, college: N.Iowa, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) scored 20 points and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Branden Johnson chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American guard Rickey Gibson (191-84, college: Stillman) with 23 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals. SAM Massagno have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain seventh position with 8-10 record, which they share with Starwings. SAV Vacallo at the other side dropped to the fourth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Monthey.
LNA top team - Lugano Tigers (16-2) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they crushed ninth ranked BBC Nyon (2-16) 93-69. Michael Efevberha notched 27 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the effort. Even a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds by Lester Hunte did not help to save the game for BBC Nyon. Defending champion maintains first position with 16-2 record. BBC Nyon lost thirteenth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 16 games lost.
The game between eighth ranked Starwings (8-10) and 10th ranked Zurich Wildcats (1-17) in Basel ended with biggest points difference. Starwings outscored guests from Zurich 79-35. The best player for the winners was Tony Brown who had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Starwings moved-up to seventh place, which they share with SAM Massagno. Zurich Wildcats lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 17 lost games.

In the last game of round 18 Monthey was beaten by Geneve Lions on the road 79-64.

Starwings - Zurich Wildcats 79-35

The game between eighth ranked Starwings (8-10) and 10th ranked Zurich Wildcats (1-17) in Basel ended with biggest points difference. Starwings outscored guests from Zurich 79-35. The game without a history. Starwings led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Zurich Wildcats to just 6 points in third quarter and to 14 points in second half. Starwings dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Zurich Wildcats' 28. Starwings forced 19 Zurich Wildcats turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Zurich Wildcats' players. The best player for the winners was American guard Tony Brown (193-79, college: Arkansas St.) who had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 assists. The other American import forward Alex Thompson (208-85, college: Iowa St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was naturalized Serbian power forward Zoran Zivanovic (203-92) who recorded 8 points and 6 rebounds and Serbian center Mladen Lukic (207-92) added 8 points and 5 rebounds respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Starwings moved-up to seventh place, which they share with SAM Massagno. Zurich Wildcats lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 17 lost games.
Top scorers:
Starwings: A.Thompson 25+10reb, T.Brown 25+3reb+10ast, M.Hett 11+3reb+1ast, R.Albrecht 5+7reb, M.Petkovic 3+4reb+7ast, V.Hollins 3+1reb+3ast
Zurich Wildcats: M.Lukic 8+5reb+1ast, Z.Zivanovic 8+6reb+1ast, L.Waldesbuehl 6+4reb+2ast, S.Bernet 6+5reb, I.Castro 3+1reb, V.Luethi 2
gschID: 103711


Boncourt - Fribourg 86-82

The most important game in the last round took place in Boncourt between second ranked Fribourg (12-6) and sixth ranked Boncourt (9-9) on Sunday night. Fribourg was defeated by Boncourt in a tough game on the road 82-86. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 30-20. But Fribourg won second period 23-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for Belgian forward Douglas Tshomba (201-83, college: Tusculum) who led his team to a victory with 29 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). American center Tony Gugino (207-86, college: Hillsdale) contributed with a double-double by scoring 13 points, 16 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. American forward Steve Smith (200-81, college: Iona) replied with 24 points and 9 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Terry Williams (192-83, college: Georgia Southern, agency: Interperformances) added 12 points and 9 assists in the effort for Fribourg. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Boncourt maintains sixth position with 9-9 record. Fribourg at the other side keeps the second place with six games lost. They share the position with Geneve Lions.
Top scorers:
Boncourt: D.Tshomba 29+5reb+5ast, S.Glover 15+10reb+4ast, T.Gugino 13+16reb+8ast, R.Schwaiger 12, N.Dos Santos 12+6reb+2ast, A.Herrmann 5+2reb
Fribourg: S.Smith 24+9reb+1ast, T.Williams 12+4reb+9ast, D.Esterkamp 12+7reb+4ast, O.Vogt 11+5reb, Y.Holland 10+4reb+1ast, V.Buscaglia 10+6reb+3ast
gschID: 103712


Lugano Tigers - BBC Nyon 93-69

LNA top team - Lugano Tigers (16-2) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they crushed ninth ranked BBC Nyon (2-16) 93-69. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 93-69. Lugano Tigers looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by BBC Nyon's players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Lugano Tigers made 7 blocks. American-Nigerian guard Michael Efevberha (196-84, college: Cal.St. Northridge) notched 27 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the effort and American power forward Matt Schneiderman (205-81, college: N.Iowa) supported him with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Five Lugano Tigers players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds by American swingman Lester Hunte (196-88, college: Northwood Fl.) did not help to save the game for BBC Nyon. His fellow American import guard Chad Byron (188-87, college: Cumberlands) added 24 points. Defending champion maintains first position with 16-2 record. BBC Nyon lost thirteenth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 16 games lost.
Top scorers:
Lugano Tigers: M.Efevberha 27+7reb+8ast, M.Schneiderman 18+9reb+6ast, S.Finn 16+8reb+1ast, D.Mladjan 13+1reb+2ast, B.Angley 10+2reb+4ast, E.Draughan 7+3reb+4ast
BBC Nyon: C.Byron 24+2reb+3ast, L.Hunte 19+10reb+1ast, C.Daniels 14+9reb+2ast, J.Senderos 6+4reb+2ast, J.Meylan 4+4reb+1ast, X.Paredes 2+3reb
gschID: 103708


Geneve Lions - Monthey 79-64

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked Geneve Lions and 5th ranked Monthey had identical 11-6 record. This time Geneve Lions used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Monthey 79-64. Geneve Lions made 17-of-22 charity shots (77.3 percent) during the game. Geneve Lions outrebounded Monthey 41-27 including 28 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was Congolese forward Max Kouguere (198-87) who scored 17 points and 9 rebounds. American forward Josh Almanson (205-82, college: Bowling Green) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. Four Geneve Lions players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American-Jamaican forward Ronald Yates (201-83, college: St.Peter's) who recorded 17 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Arizona Reid (196-86, college: High Point) added 13 points and 8 rebounds respectively. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Geneve Lions (12-6) moved-up to second place, which they share with Fribourg. Monthey at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost.
Top scorers:
Geneve Lions: J.Almanson 18+7reb+2ast, M.Kouguere 17+9reb+1ast, B.Toure 15+7reb, M.Sloan 12+7reb+3ast, F.Ramseier 5, J.Srzic 4+3reb+4ast
Monthey: R.Yates 17+5reb+1ast, A.Reid 13+8reb, S.Moris 12+2reb, J.Sharper 7+4reb+5ast, W.Molteni 4+5reb, J.Pottier 3+1ast
gschID: 103709


SAV Vacallo - SAM Massagno 68-80

Very important is a home loss of third ranked SAV Vacallo (11-7) against seventh ranked SAM Massagno (8-10) on Saturday night. Host SAV Vacallo was defeated by SAM Massagno in Chiasso 80-68. The game was mostly controlled by SAM Massagno. SAV Vacallo was better in third quarter 19-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. SAM Massagno forced 19 SAV Vacallo turnovers. American guard Ali Farokhmanesh (183-88, college: N.Iowa, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) scored 20 points and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import forward Branden Johnson (206-86, college: Montana St.) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American guard Rickey Gibson (191-84, college: Stillman) with 23 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals and Croatian-Slovenian center Martin Mihajlovic (208-81) scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. SAM Massagno have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain seventh position with 8-10 record, which they share with Starwings. SAV Vacallo at the other side dropped to the fourth place with seven games lost. They share the position with Monthey.
Top scorers:
SAM Massagno: A.Farokhmanesh 20+2reb+4ast, A.Hawkins 18+3reb+1ast, B.Johnson 18+7reb, J.Ofoegbu 8+11reb, F.Fridel 6+4reb+1ast, D.Balletta 5+1reb+1ast
SAV Vacallo: R.Gibson 23+5reb+6ast, M.Mihajlovic 12+7reb+3ast, P.Badji 11+6reb, K.Popovich 7+2reb, S.Smiljanic 6+1ast, R.Kovac 5+1reb
gschID: 103710




*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


Joshua Shipp carries Galatasaray past Nymburk - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray - Nymburk 76:75

Galatasaray snatched a vital win against Nymburk in EuroCup Last 16 tonight. Joshua Shipp (196-G/F-86, college: UCLA) hit a buzzer-beater to rescue the home team from a big time embarrassment. The Turkish team improved at 1-2 record, while dropping Nymburk at 0-3 in Group K.
Both teams entered the game in a bad need of a victory. Nymburk looked slightly better in the opening frame. The visitors surprised Galatasaray to record a 17:14 lead after ten minutes. Nymburk improved their performance in the second term and cleared off. The Czech champions arrived at halftime up by 8 points 40:32. Galatasaray and Nymburk traded baskets throughout intense third frame. The hosts fired from all guns in the fourth quarter. The hosts managed to cut the deficit. Joshua Shipp had the last laugh in the clash as his buzzer-beater send the fans on their feet. Joshua Shipp finished with 17 points and 13 boards for Galatasaray. Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) added 14 points in the victory. Chester Simmons (198-G-82, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Washington) answered with 22 points for Nymburk. Pavel Pumprla (196-G-86) had 14 points in the loss.

Galatasaray: Joshua Shipp 17+13 boards, Preston Shumpert 14, Evren Buker (194-F-85) 12
Nymburk: Chester Simmons 22, Pavel Pumprla 14


Losing is Never Fun - by Brandon Gordon
Whats up yall its BG checkin again once again with my overseas adventures. So we just dropped our last 5 games in a row! and 4 out of 5 were winnable games and close loses. Those are definitely the ones that hurt the most. I cant say I even have a good team or even a good coaches for that matter but one thing for sure is that I must do my job or everybody is coming to me with the blame. This losing though makes being overseas stressful and frustrating. Not good at all being away from friends and family and all you really got is basketball. So with that being said I do what I got to do and let the rest fall in the hands of God or else I would be pulling my hair out at the moment.

Our last 3 games were our worst losses if you ask me just because of the way we lost. True enough our team is not the most talented but with me here I make things so much easier for everyone else and give us a chance to win in every game that we play. We lose games because of pure selfishness, lack of basketball IQ and just plain jealousy amongst other things. Its a damn shame though because as hard as I work to help us win its like its all in vain at the end of the day.

In the last 3 losses we lost the 1st game by 2, which came down to just getting one defensive rebound after I played the best defense in m LIFE to get the guy to take a bad shot. We didnt even get a chance to get on offense to even tie up or win the game. I was so upset and frustrated that couldnt even sleep that night. The next loss came in overtime after i just drained two 3s on the road to take us into the overtime period. Then just to not even get to touch the ball but once in the overtime period. Then the fact that we only scored 2 damn points the whole period while the other team scored 23 or 25 point in OVERTIME. I dont know if that even happens in the NBA! So basically after I play my heart out ust to keep us close in the game we get blown out in overtime. Oh did i mention that my coach sat me on the bench for the 6:30 of the 4th quatrter after I played all 3 quarters. I still dont know what that was about! Then our most recent loss came by a score of 53-49. Most would think this was a defensive battle but this was not the case at all. We had beaten this team before on their home court so now we had them on our court you would think that a victory would come a little bit easier just because we are playing at home. WRONG!!! Like i said we lost 53-49. I scored 25 pts and had 7 rebs. A normal but pretty good stat line for me. So if you are any good at math you know that i scored more points than my ENTIRE TEAM. With only 25 pts!! Its not like I scored 81 points or something!! So that means if I played my team 1 on 4 I wouldve have won that day. Now thats a damn shame and Im really at a lost now on what to do about this team. My mind state right now is just at I DONT KNOW. I just dont have a clue of what else to do. Did i mention that the next leading scorer behind me had 7 points?!?!! If somebody could tell me how to solve my problem I would gladly listen. Lord help me. Im signing out. Peace

Pinar Karsiyaka is on top of EuroChallenge Group J - by Eurobasket News
Pinar Karsiyaka-Dexia Mons-Hainaut 94:71

Pinar Karsiyaka is on top of EuroChallenge Group J after another victory in the tournament. This time the Turkish underdogs overcame Dexia Mons-Hainaut 94:71. The Turkish club improved to 3-0 in Group J and dropped Dexia to 1-2.
As the game started, the hosts showed that there were no adverse effects to the long journey as they leapt out to an early lead. Dexia Mons-Hainaut tried to pull themselves back into the game and traded baskets for the remainder of the opening period to trail 17:20. Erdogan and Batuk scored for 25:17 and Saruhan made it 31:23. Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) sent the teams to the lockers at 46:36 making three with a foul. In the third quarter the Turkish representative erupted with 31-15 and took 77:51 after three quarters.Bellin scored four points in a row for his team to cut it to 79:55, while Osiris Eldridge (191-G-88, agency: N.E.T., college: Illinois St.) made seven for the home side to give them 87:59. Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Xavier) was the last to score in the game for the final result.
Jovo Stanojevic (208-C-77, agency: Beo Basket) and Smith top-scored for the winners with 19 points each to remain perfect. David Holston (170-G-86, college: Chicago St.) followed them with 15 and Osiris Eldridge netted 14. Ben McCauley replied with 19 points in the losing effort, while Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) netted 14 and Justin Cage posted 11.

Pinar Karsiyaka: Jovo Stanojevic 19, Smith 19, David Holston 15, Osiris Eldridge 14
Dexia Mons-Hainaut: Ben McCauley 19, Ronell Taylor 14, Justin Cage 11


Besiktas close to land Oliver Lafayette - by Eurobasket News
Besiktas are close to signing a contract with Oliver Lafayette (188-G-84, college: Houston). The 26-year-old guard is expected to replace Allen Iverson (184-G-75, college: Georgetown) on the roster. Iverson got injured and is not expected to comeback until late March. Oliver Lafayette started the season in Partizan Beograd. He tallied 8.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game in Euroleague. In Adriatic League Oliver Lafayette notched 10.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists. In November the guard moved to D-League. Oliver Lafayette joined the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. He averaged 16.4 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.6 assists per appearance. The guard is reported to arrive to Turkey on Thursday.


TB2L Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Arthur JOHNSON
  Vestel
  (206-F/C-81)
  Avg: 21.8
 1. Johnson, Vestel21.8 
 2. Nelson, Akhisar Bld19.6 
 3. Tekinalp, ITU19.4 
 4. Hall, Kepez Bld18.9 
 5. Gardener, Final G.18.6 
 6. Boswell, Basaksehir18.3 
 7. Wright, Orman Genc18.2 
 8. Dearman, Hacett.17.9 
 9. Boykin, Gaziantep17.4 
 10. Kan, TED Istanbul16.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jamil TERELL
  Adanaspor
  (200-F/C-80)
  Avg: 11.9
 1. Terell, Adanaspor11.9 
 2. Lewis, Beykoz11.3 
 3. Gardener, Final G.10.9 
 4. Johnson, Vestel10.7 
 5. Isik, Pertevniyal10.5 
 6. Wright, Orman Genc9.9 
 7. Nelson, Akhisar Bld9.8 
 8. Johnson, Istanbul.9.4 
 9. Boswell, Basaksehir9.2 
 10. Majok, FMV I.8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Baris ERDOGAN
  Adanaspor
  (175-G-84)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Erdogan, Adanaspor6.4 
 2. Kan, TED Istanbul6.0 
 3. Ogut, Genc Telekom6.0 
 4. Hall, Kepez Bld5.9 
 5. Kavut, Optimum TED5.1 
 6. Topcu, Gelisim5.1 
 7. Ay, Final Genclik4.6 
 8. Topcu, Izmir B.B.4.6 
 9. Yikilmaz, Pertevniyal4.4 
 10. Bayrak, Usak4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus HALL
  Kepez Bld
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Hall, Kepez Bld2.8 
 2. Yonder, Genc Banvit2.4 
 3. Karabulut, Orman G.2.1 
 4. Terzioglu, Gelisim2.0 
 5. Ozdemir, Kepez Bld2.0 
 6. Yikilmaz, Pertevniyal1.9 
 7. Demircioglu, Istanb.1.9 
 8. Nelson, Akhisar Bld1.9 
 9. Delicay, Gaziantep1.9 
 10. Korkmaz, Pertevni.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Ater MAJOK
  Wildcats
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Majok, FMV I.3.1 
 2. Johnson, Vestel2.1 
 3. McGowan, Akhisar .1.8 
 4. Clarkson, TED I.1.6 
 5. Smith, Usak1.5 
 6. Boswell, Basaksehir1.5 
 7. Kulcebas, Hacett.1.4 
 8. Toyloy, Istanbul.1.4 
 9. Terell, Adanaspor1.3 
 10. Johnson, Istanbul.1.2 


*****************************************************
  UBA   


URBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jermaine BARNES
  (194-G/F-82)
  Avg: 26
 1. Barnes, GIE M.26.0 
 2. Sloan, S.Generals25.6 
 3. Holmes, Atlanta A.24.4 
 4. Perkins, Austin K.23.0 
 5. Kearse, Dallas S.22.8 
 6. Hill, DFW Warriors22.2 
 7. Grismore, C.Tex.21.6 
 8. James, DFW W.19.8 
 9. Clark, St.Mount.19.5 
 10. Webb, Tennessee D.19.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jermaine DAILEY
  USA
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Dailey, GIE M.12.2 
 2. Hall, St.Mount.10.4 
 3. Hill, DFW Warriors10.1 
 4. Holmes, Atlanta A.10.0 
 5. Stroud, GIE M.9.8 
 6. Davis, Dallas Stars9.6 
 7. Anderson, DFW W.9.3 
 8. Wilson, Tennesse.9.2 
 9. Moore, S.Generals9.0 
 10. Akpele, S.Generals8.9 
Assists Per Game
 DeAndre BRAY
  (168-G-85)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Bray, S.Generals10.6 
 2. De La Cruz, S.Gen.8.5 
 3. Haskins, C.Texas C.8.2 
 4. Belton, GIE M.7.9 
 5. Williams, GIE M.7.7 
 6. Belton, Atlanta A.7.6 
 7. Beaulah, GIE M.7.4 
 8. Douglas, DFW W.7.2 
 9. Brown, Norman E.6.5 
 10. Taylor, Tennesse.5.9 
Steals Per Game
 Mychal KEARSE
  (194-G-83)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Kearse, Dallas S.3.5 
 2. Bray, S.Generals3.4 
 3. Williams, S.Generals3.2 
 4. Williams, GIE M.3.0 
 5. Taylor, Tennesse.2.9 
 6. Haskins, C.Texas C.2.8 
 7. Brown, Norman E.2.5 
 8. Snell, Atlanta A.2.4 
 9. Barnes, GIE M.2.3 
 10. Sloan, S.Generals2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Demario WILLIAMS
  (216-C-85)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Williams, GIE M.6.2 
 2. Moore, S.Generals5.5 
 3. Davis, Dallas Stars3.2 
 4. Hall, St.Mount.2.7 
 5. Wilson, Tennesse.2.7 
 6. Dailey, GIE M.2.5 
 7. Stokes, Dallas S.2.4 
 8. Hill, DFW Warriors2.3 
 9. Anderson, DFW W.1.9 
 10. Stroud, GIE M.1.7 


Standings
UBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Columbus C. 5-3 
 2. Southeast H. 4-1 
 3. Cleveland V. 4-2 
 4. Colonial F. 1-4 
 5. NE Air Soul 0-5 
Southern
 1. S.Generals 17-2 
 2. GIE Morrow D. 14-7 
 3. Georgia L. 8-8 
 4. Atlanta A. 8-8 
 5. St.Mountain H. 1-10 
Western
 1. C.Texas C. 9-1 
 2. Tennessee D. 8-8 
 3. DFW Warriors 7-3 
 4. Norman E. 4-2 
 5. Austin K. 2-4 
D-League
 1. Irie M. 0-0 
 2. Proline 0-0 
 3. Team Japan 0-0 
Travel Teams
 1. Columbus Crush 7-2 
 2. Dallas Star 4-7 
 3. Houston X. 1-0 
 4. Nashville B. 0-4 
 5. Oklahoma S. 0-8 
 6. Metro Atlanta 0-11 


*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.8
 1. Burtt, Dnipro22.8 
 2. Burns, Fe.18.4 
 3. Curry, Azovmash17.3 
 4. Washington, BC Od.16.9 
 5. Flores, BC Donetsk16.7 
 6. Efejuku, Fe.15.2 
 7. Williams, Halychyna14.9 
 8. Karim, DniproAzot14.9 
 9. DeGroat, BC Odessa14.8 
 10. Bakic, Kryvbasb.14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael FRASER
  DniproAzot
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Fraser, DniproAzot10.8 
 2. Wiggins, Halychyna8.9 
 3. Burns, Fe.8.3 
 4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv7.7 
 5. Morrison, Halyc.7.6 
 6. Owens, Azovmash7.2 
 7. Austin, Dnipro7.0 
 8. Hunter, Fe.6.8 
 9. Thomas, Azovmash6.8 
 10. Chappell, Hoverla6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Todd ABERNETHY
  Halychyna
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Abernethy, Halyc.5.3 
 2. Zimmerman, Hoverla5.3 
 3. Burtt, Dnipro4.9 
 4. Sirsnins, DniproAzot4.8 
 5. Vasiljevic, BC Do.4.7 
 6. Funn, Halychyna4.7 
 7. Millage, Khimik4.7 
 8. Brewer, BC Odessa4.5 
 9. Curry, Azovmash4.2 
 10. Swanson, Hoverla3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Millage, Khimik2.6 
 2. Love, Mykolaiv1.7 
 3. Greene, Mykolaiv1.6 
 4. Burns, Fe.1.6 
 5. Protic, Khimik1.5 
 6. House, Azovmash1.5 
 7. Gliebov, BC Donetsk1.5 
 8. Mazutis, Mykolaiv1.4 
 9. Riabchuk, BC Kyiv1.4 
 10. Funn, Halychyna1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Hughes, Mykolaiv2.5 
 2. Kravtsov, BC Do.2.2 
 3. Hunter, Fe.1.6 
 4. Pettway, Dnipro1.5 
 5. Agafonov, Budiv.1.5 
 6. Onufriyev, Mykolaiv1.4 
 7. Turner, BC Odessa1.3 
 8. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.1.3 
 9. Morrison, Halyc.1.2 
 10. Balashov, BC Odessa1.1 


Standings - Superleague
Superleague Standings
 1. BC Donetsk 23-6 
 2. Budivelnyk 22-6 
 3. Hoverla 18-11 
 4. Azovmash 17-12 
 5. Dnipro 15-14 
 6. Kryvbasbasket 15-14 
 7. Ferro-ZNTU 15-15 
 8. Mykolaiv 13-14 
 9. DniproAzot 12-16 
 10. BC Odessa 12-18 
 11. Halychyna 10-21 
 12. Khimik 9-20 
 13. BC Kyiv 7-21 


Dnipro waived Kenny Adeleke - by Alexei Revenko
Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk cancel contract with 27 years old center Kenny Adeleke (205-C-83, agency: Edge Sports, college: Hartford). He played 7 games in regular season. Scored 10.9 points and 8.4 rebounds. In October Kenny injured. In 2009-2010 Kenny played in Martos Napoli 3 games: 10.3ppg, 9.0rpg, 2.0spg, left team in October, in January 2010 moved to Shanxi Zhongyu where played 2 games: 15.5ppg, 7.5rpg, 2.0spg, 2.0bpg but also was injured.

Budivelnyk hold off Le Mans - by Eurobasket News
Budivelnyk - Le Mans 67:61

Budivelnyk clinched the second win in EuroCup Last 16. They outscored Le Mans to improve at 2-1 record on top of Group J. William Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.) came up with 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead the hosts. Le Mans fell at 1-2 record after the loss.
The teams traded baskets throughout the opening stanza. Budivelnyk eked out a 16:13 lead after ten minutes. Lukashov and Ikovlev stretched the lead to 8 points in the second quarter. Alex Akcer stepped up for the French team cutting the deficit but Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) gave the home team a 31:27 lead at the interval. Budivelnyk extended the margin to 10 points in the third term. The Ukrainian vice-champions headed into the fourth quarter up by 11 points 52:41. Benjamin Dewar (196-G/F-81, college: L.Superior) fought bravely as he narrowed the margin to 6 points 55:61 midway through the fourth quarter. But William Keys answered from downtown and Budivelnyk hung on to win the game.
Zach Morley had 14 points, while Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) added 12 in the win. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) answered with 17 points for Le Mans. Benjamin Dewar had 14 points in the loss.

Budivelnyk: William Keys 16+10 boards, Zach Morley 14, Lamayne Wilson 12
Le Mans: Joao Paulo Batista 17, Benjamin Dewar 14


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


Davis Coach Of The Month For January - by Paul Nilsen
The news keeps getting better for Glasgow Rocks fans following the announcement that player-coach Sterling Davis has been named Molten Coach of the month for January.

Five straight wins to wrap up the month have seen the Rocks move up to second place in the BBL Championship, breathing down the neck of leaders Mersey Tigers with a 12-4 record.

The Rocks opened January with a 100-88 defeat at Guildford Heat, but that proved to be their only loss in the month as they bounced straight back with an 88-81 victory at Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders.

A weekend in the south saw them pick up wins at Prestige Home MK Lions (97-88) and Essex Pirates (77-51) before they returned home to defeat UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders 90-83.

They saved arguably their best performance of the month until the final game with an 80-67 road win at fellow title challengers Cheshire Jets.

Davis has also contributed on the court for the Rocks, averaging 9.17 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.83 assists and one steal in 25 minutes per game.


Moore Wins Player Of Month Award For January - by Paul Nilsen
Newcastle Eagles guard Trey Moore (192-G-75, college: Mississippi St.) has been named Molten Player of the month for January after an excellent few weeks for the north east club.

The 35-year-old averaged 20.71 points per game as the Eagles reeled off five straight BBL Championship wins to up to third in the table after a quiet start to the season.

The two-times BBL Most Valuable Player helped Eagles defeat Sheffield Sharks 112-79 in their opening game of 2011, just missing out on a triple-double with 37 points, 11 assists and nine boards, and both Moore and the Eagles continued that form as their next four BBL Championships saw only Prestige MK Lions keep the margin of defeat inside single figures.

Moore hit 27 points in that win against the Lions, and he added 7.71 assists, 5.71 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game for the Eagles.

Eagle coach Fab Flournoy was delighted to see his player win the award: Trey came back after Christmas really with a point to prove and started off by playing a great game at Sheffield. He has been very consistent for us from there on, and its great to see him take the award.


Davis Named Coach Of The Month For January - by Paul Nilsen
The news keeps getting better for Glasgow Rocks fans following the announcement that player-coach Sterling Davis (200-F-77, college: Tulane) has been named Molten Coach of the month for January.

Five straight wins to wrap up the month have seen the Rocks move up to second place in the BBL Championship, breathing down the neck of leaders Mersey Tigers with a 12-4 record.

The Rocks opened January with a 100-88 defeat at Guildford Heat, but that proved to be their only loss in the month as they bounced straight back with an 88-81 victory at Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders.

A weekend in the south saw them pick up wins at Prestige Home MK Lions (97-88) and Essex Pirates (77-51) before they returned home to defeat UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders 90-83.

They saved arguably their best performance of the month until the final game with an 80-67 road win at fellow title challengers Cheshire Jets.

Davis has also contributed on the court for the Rocks, averaging 9.17 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.83 assists and one steal in 25 minutes per game.


BBL Team Of The Week - Week 19 - by Paul Nilsen

After racking up a weekend win double, albeit courtesy of a great escape against Essex Pirates, our BBL Team Of The Week is dominated by UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders. For successive weeks we find three spots in our fantastic five going to one club. This time we revert back to a more physical and powerful line-up with three forwards.

Evaldas Zabas (198-F-88) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

The Lithuanian playmaker has really find some form of late and that is underlined by the fact that he takes the accolade of performance of the week. Having racked up an impressive performance valuation of 34 in the crushing defeat of Guildford, the guard certainly enjoyed his nights work with 26 points and 8 assists. Zabas can also take pleasure in joining the small and elite group of players who have produced two performances during a weekend which were both worthy of a place in the starting five. As well as excelling against the Heat, he also had 27 points and 5 assists in the win at Southend against the Pirates.

Chez Marks (191-G-80, college: Morehead St.) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

Chez Marks (191-G-80, college: Morehead St.) has been on fire since he joined the Raiders and having already featured on three previous occasions in our BBL Team Of The Week, he grabs his fourth appearance courtesy of his 25 point effort in the 40 point win at the Pavilions against the Heat. Marks drilled home three triples and added 4 rebounds and 2 assists to help his team continue their steady rise up the table.

Mike Tuck (One Health Sharks Sheffield)

After his scintillating first half contribution at the NIA during the 2011 BBL Cup Final, Tuck continued his rich vein of form when he returned to the floor with his Sharks team-mates for a 20 point win at Worthing Thunder. Both Tuck and frontcourt partner Paul Williams grabbed double-doubles but it was the 18 points and 12 rebounds for Tuck which booked him a place in our line-up.

Lehmon Colbert (198-F-88, college: Jacksonville) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)

Colbert has often been overshadowed this season by his team-mates with Otis Polk, Evaldas Zabas (198-F-88) and Chez Marks (191-G-80, college: Morehead St.) regularly featuring in the BBL Team Of The Week. However this time Colbert finally grabs some of the attention and deservedly too. For he produced an all-action stellar line against the Heat with a sparkling 21 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals.

Tafari Toney (Mersey Tigers)

Things dont get much better for players in the BBL than what Tafari Toney experienced last Friday night at Sports Central. In a truly classic BBL encounter, he came out in top against his former club as Mersey Tigers booked their place at the 02 Arena for the BBL Trophy Final thanks to a hard-working and powerful double-double. Toney racked up a super 14 points and 14 rebounds but crucially in a tight game, he also showed he has quick hands and plenty of hustle for a big man with four priceless steals. Those present also witnessed just what this performance meant to the former Eagles centre.

BBL Team Of The Week

Evaldas Zabas (198-F-88) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)
Chez Marks (191-G-80, college: Morehead St.) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)
Mikel Tuck (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
Lehmon Colbert (198-F-88, college: Jacksonville) (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders)
Tafari Toney (Mersey Tigers)

Off The Bench

Sherrad Prezzie-Blue (Worthing Thunder), Michael Kingma (Glasgow Rocks), Steve Dagostino (One Health Sharks Sheffield), Quemont Greer (Cheshire Jets), Martelle McLemore (Guildford Heat), Daniel Gilbert (Worcester Wolves), Darius Defoe (Newcastle Eagles)



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


Antonio Garcia don't has a torn, but is out for next game - by Sergio Palay
Against all odds, Defensor Sporting Club defeated very easily to Hebraica Macabi at the first game of the first round of LUB playoffs.
Coach Marcelo Signorelli (agency: Players Group ) took two concerns. The defeat and injury of Antonio Garcia (203-F/C-76, college: Ky Wesleyan)
The Panamanian first suffered an elbow problem. Recovered felt a pain in the leg and left the game summing only just 10 minutes on the court.
On Tuesday, he underwent a study and found that, in principle, don't has a torn muscle in his leg , but exist a muscle strain.
This rules out Garcia for the game on Wednesday. The player wants to play anyway, but for now must will wait.
Macabbi lost and is in troubles

Stats Leaders - LUB
Points Per Game
 Johwen VILLEGAS
  Olimpia
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 27.5
 1. Villegas, Olimpia27.5 
 2. Maxey, Un.Atletica25.0 
 3. Craft, Cordon24.9 
 4. McGowan, Sayago24.7 
 5. Cornley, Cader24.3 
 6. Taboada, Bigua23.5 
 7. Hayes, Cordon23.3 
 8. Aguiar, Hebraica22.9 
 9. Coleman, Bohemios20.3 
 10. Woodward, Defensor20.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Terrance GAMBLE
  Cader
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Gamble, Cader12.8 
 2. Shelman, Sayago11.2 
 3. Rogers, Un.Atletica10.6 
 4. Jackson, Anastasia10.2 
 5. McGowan, Sayago9.7 
 6. Dilligard, Olimpia9.6 
 7. Kanis, Trouville9.4 
 8. Reynolds, Hebraica9.4 
 9. Wilborn, Bigua9.3 
 10. Maxey, Un.Atletica9.2 
Assists Per Game
 Mauro TORNARIA
  Trouville
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Tornaria, Trouville6.2 
 2. Martinez, Malvin5.7 
 3. Cambon, Bigua5.6 
 4. Elliott, Hebraica5.5 
 5. Pereyra, Bohemios5.2 
 6. Gonzalez, Defensor5.2 
 7. Vidal, Bigua5.1 
 8. Latham, Anastasia4.8 
 9. Rivero, Montevideo4.7 
 10. Muro, Aguada4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Carl ELLIOTT
  Cocodrilos
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 3
 1. Elliott, Hebraica3.0 
 2. Tornaria, Trouville2.6 
 3. Rivero, Montevideo2.3 
 4. Latham, Anastasia2.2 
 5. Rovira, Bigua2.1 
 6. Woodward, Defensor2.0 
 7. Thomas, Cader2.0 
 8. Shelman, Sayago2.0 
 9. Osimani, Montevideo1.9 
 10. Viera, Anastasia1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Greg DILLIGARD
  Olimpia
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 4
 1. Dilligard, Olimpia4.0 
 2. Rogers, Un.Atletica2.7 
 3. Wilborn, Bigua2.3 
 4. Newsome, Malvin2.2 
 5. Douglas, Bohemios2.0 
 6. Shelman, Sayago1.9 
 7. Bortz, Malvin1.9 
 8. Gamble, Cader1.9 
 9. Kanis, Trouville1.8 
 10. Reynolds, Hebraica1.6 


*****************************************************
  ZIMBABWE   


Basketball Union of Zimbabwe to face suspension from SRC over split - by Thomas Fink
Sunday, 23 January 2011 13:09

BY ALBERT MARUFU

THE Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) has threatened to suspend the Basketball Union of Zimbabwe executive if it fails to sort the chaos rocking its affiliate, the Harare Basketball Association (HBA). HBA split into two committees last year with veteran coach and administrator Roderick Takawira leading the splinter faction, leaving Gilchrist Mageza in charge of the committee that is constitutionally recognised by BUZ.

The Takawira committee, known as HBA-T in basketball circles, is running while the Mageza-led committee (HBA-M) is still to take off. The Takawira-led committee withdrew from HBA last year in protest over allegations of too much interference from BUZ, lack of good governance and alleged disregard for the constitution. SRC Director General Charles Nhemachena said the chaos at HBA must come to an end as it was affecting the players. He said this would ultimately impact on the national teams performances. I am not happy with what is happening in basketball, said Nhemachena.

How can people fail to agree on such simple matters? This shows the kind of administrators that we have in the country. We do not have good sport administrators and you can count a few who deserve to be called sport administrators, he said. There is so much talent in the country, but it is being wasted by erratic administrators who put their interests first ahead of the game. Nhemachena said the HBA dispute had gone on for a long time, noting it was time to solve it in the interest of players.

We are empowered to either suspend the entire executive or administrators in their individual capacities. I think such an action would bring the required results in the sport, he said.
The SRC boss also said they were waiting for the report from the association on the performances of the team in the qualifiers for both the All Africa Games and Fiba Africa Nations Championships that was held in South Africa last week.We are closely monitoring the situation in basketball and we will be looking at the reports on the teams performances in the regional qualifiers. We will see if the teams performance was not affected by the current problems. That is when we are going to take action, he said.

When contacted for comment, BUZ leader Addison Chiware promised to call back, but never did.



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

Women News

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


Cakic's double-double lands her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old guard Marta Cakic (175-G-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
She had a double-double of 17 points and 11 rebounds, while her team outclassed Merkur Celje (#3, 13-5) with 26-point margin 83-57. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Jolly maintains the 4th position in Adriatic League . They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Jolly will need more victories to improve their 12-4 record. In the team's last game Cakic had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range. She has many years of experience at Jolly, through which he has constantly improved. Marta Cakic averages this season 10.0ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Britany Miller (193-C-87) of Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb. She is American center in her first season at Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb. In the last game Miller recorded impressive 22 points and 8 rebounds. It was enough for Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb to edge slightly lower-ranked Celik (#8, 6-11) by 5 points 76-71. Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb's 6th position in the standings has not changed. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 9-9 record is not bad and everything may still change. Miller is a newcomer at Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.9ppg (#3). She also registered 9.2 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to another ZKK Sibenik Jolly JBS's star - forward Andrijana Vasovic (186-F/C-83). Vasovic scored 23 points and grabbed five rebounds. She was another key player of Jolly, helping her team with a 83-57 easy win against #3 ranked Merkur Celje in a game of the week. Jolly needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 12 victories and 4 lost games. Vasovic has a very solid season. In 12 games in Adriatic League she scored 7.8ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Dajana Butulija (175-G-86) of Partizan - 19 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Stanecia Graham (185-F-86) of Celik - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Ivana Jovanovic (185-F/C-85) of Vozdovac - 18 points and 8 rebounds
7. Biljana Stjepanovic (189-C-87) of Radivoj Korac - 16 points and 10 rebounds
8. Michelle Maslowski (188-F/C-79) of Gospic - 12 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Nika Baric (169-G-92) of Merkur Celje - 19 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Tina Jovanovic (191-F/C-91) of Radivoj Korac - 15 points and 12 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
Adriatic League Standings
 1. Gospic 16-1 
 2. Partizan 14-4 
 3. Merkur Celje 13-5 
 4. Jolly 12-4 
 5. Jedinstvo BP 10-6 
 6. Lupa Promot. 9-9 
 7. Radivoj Korac 7-10 
 8. Celik 6-11 
 9. Vojvodina 5-12 
 10. Vozdovac 5-12 
 11. AJM Maribor 5-12 
 12. Medvescak 1-17 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ljubica KURE
  AJM Maribor
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Kure, AJM Maribor20.3 
 2. Baric, Merkur C.18.1 
 3. Miller, Lupa Promot.16.9 
 4. Butulija, Partizan16.6 
 5. Bedalov, Medvescak16.2 
 6. Turcinovic, Merkur C.15.9 
 7. Ivezic, Gospic15.2 
 8. Bigovic, Jedinstv.15.1 
 9. Dover, AJM Maribor15.0 
 10. Pilav, Celik14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ana TURCINOVIC
  Merkur Celje
  (190-C-93)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Turcinovic, Merkur C.12.2 
 2. Popovic, Jedinstv.9.5 
 3. Miller, Lupa Promot.9.2 
 4. Stone, Partizan8.1 
 5. Ivankovic, Jolly7.8 
 6. Matic, Lupa P.7.8 
 7. Bedalov, Medvescak7.7 
 8. Vrsaljko, Gospic7.5 
 9. Radovic, Vozdovac7.3 
 10. Stjepanovic, Radivo.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 5
 1. Reid, Gospic5.0 
 2. Baric, Merkur C.4.6 
 3. Mehmedic, Celik3.9 
 4. Peric, Medvescak3.5 
 5. Cakic, Jolly3.3 
 6. Misura, Jolly3.3 
 7. Prlja, Vozdovac3.2 
 8. Mandir, Gospic3.2 
 9. Salopek, Jolly3.1 
 10. Butulija, Partizan3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Reid, Gospic3.1 
 2. Bigovic, Jedinstv.2.9 
 3. Butulija, Partizan2.9 
 4. Prlja, Vozdovac2.7 
 5. Dover, AJM Maribor2.4 
 6. Mehmedic, Celik2.4 
 7. Djuric, Vojvodina2.4 
 8. Dabovic, Partizan2.2 
 9. Bura, Vojvodina2.2 
 10. Klein, Merkur Celje2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Natasa POPOVIC
  Jedinstvo BP
  (190-C-82)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Popovic, Jedinstv.3.1 
 2. Ivankovic, Jolly1.8 
 3. Vrsaljko, Gospic1.6 
 4. Bedalov, Medvescak1.2 
 5. Tikvic, Medvescak1.1 
 6. Miller, Lupa Promot.0.9 
 7. Stone, Partizan0.7 
 8. Ajanovic, Radivoj .0.7 
 9. Begic, Medvescak0.5 
 10. Mazic, Lupa P.0.5 


*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE - Women  


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Merike ANDERSON
  Spartak SP
  (181-F-81)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Anderson, Spart.18.3 
 2. Nikolai, TL.17.9 
 3. Murauskaya, Berez.17.2 
 4. Belyakova, Spart.17.1 
 5. Lacy, Spartak SP16.0 
 6. Junaid, Spartak SP15.7 
 7. Gricaeva, Spart.15.7 
 8. Kozun, Olimpia15.6 
 9. Filonchyk, Olimpia15.4 
 10. Dyeva, Serene14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sigita GALDIKAITE
  MRU
  (188-F-90)
  Avg: 10
 1. Galdikaite, MRU10.0 
 2. Junaid, Spartak SP9.8 
 3. Gricaeva, Spart.9.5 
 4. Iordan, Olimpia9.2 
 5. Murauskaya, Berez.8.8 
 6. Kozun, Olimpia8.7 
 7. Filonchyk, Olimpia8.5 
 8. Dyeva, Serene8.5 
 9. Paskalenko, Spart.8.2 
 10. Aleksaite, MRU8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Iva CIGLAR
  Spartak SP
  (170-G-85)
  Avg: 5
 1. Ciglar, Spartak SP5.0 
 2. Kashlei, Olimpia4.2 
 3. Murauskaya, Berez.4.2 
 4. Zintikaite, MRU3.6 
 5. Yuzhakova, Spart.3.5 
 6. Padabed, Minsk.3.5 
 7. Padshyvalava, Victo.3.3 
 8. Dubas, Olimpia3.2 
 9. Jakovits, Berezina3.2 
 10. Keyru, Spartak SP3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Olga GRICAEVA
  Spartak SP
  (192-F-85)
  Avg: 4
 1. Gricaeva, Spart.4.0 
 2. Murauskaya, Berez.3.9 
 3. Keyru, Spartak SP3.8 
 4. Kuhareva, Spart.3.8 
 5. Padshyvalava, Victo.2.9 
 6. Belyakova, Spart.2.8 
 7. Ciglar, Spartak SP2.6 
 8. Miil, TL.2.6 
 9. Martinkute, MRU2.3 
 10. Okuneva, TL.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Valeria KAST
  TLU/Volta
  (201-C-87)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Kast, Minsk-20061.9 
 2. Paskalenko, Spart.1.8 
 3. Kast, TL.1.8 
 4. Murauskaya, Berez.1.6 
 5. Galdikaite, MRU1.5 
 6. Istseliatsov., Minsk-.1.4 
 7. Filonchyk, Olimpia1.3 
 8. Rashcenia, Victoria1.3 
 9. Kozun, Olimpia1.0 
 10. Kalenta, Berezina1.0 


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM - Women  


D1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Sara LEEMANS
  Sint Kateline
  (178-G/F-88)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Leemans, Sint K.20.3 
 2. Dennett, Sint K.17.4 
 3. VanMalderen, Dexia N.16.9 
 4. Meesseman, Ieper15.6 
 5. Gaither, Dexia N.14.9 
 6. Crelot, Houthalen14.9 
 7. Boonen, BBC Boom14.8 
 8. Wilkins, Point Chaud14.5 
 9. Mayombo, Point C.14.5 
 10. Decroos, BBC Boom14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rhona MCKENZIE
  Houthalen
  (183-F-76)
  Avg: 16
 1. McKenzie, Houth.16.0 
 2. Dennett, Sint K.11.4 
 3. Meesseman, Ieper11.1 
 4. Malfait, Jeugd G.10.3 
 5. Wilkins, Point Chaud9.5 
 6. Gaither, Dexia N.8.6 
 7. Verbeest, Deerlijk7.4 
 8. Hoehne, R.Spirou.7.3 
 9. Mans, Willebroek7.1 
 10. Boonen, BBC Boom7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Sara LEEMANS
  Sint Kateline
  (178-G/F-88)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Leemans, Sint K.3.5 
 2. Mayombo, Point C.2.7 
 3. Boonen, BBC Boom2.2 
 4. Devliegher, Ieper2.1 
 5. Blommaers, Houth.2.0 
 6. Arts, BBC Boom2.0 
 7. Mertens, Sint K.2.0 
 8. Ballau, R.Spirou.2.0 
 9. Vanloo, Waregem2.0 
 10. Degels, Jeugd G.2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Rhona MCKENZIE
  Houthalen
  (183-F-76)
  Avg: 3
 1. McKenzie, Houth.3.0 
 2. Medvedeva, Waregem2.6 
 3. Meesseman, Ieper2.6 
 4. Van Driel, BBC B.2.3 
 5. Gaither, Dexia N.2.3 
 6. Van den Vond., BBC B.2.2 
 7. Deneil, Dexia Namur2.0 
 8. De Bondt, Deerlijk2.0 
 9. Mayombo, Point C.2.0 
 10. Ray, Dexia Namur1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Emma MEESSEMAN
  Ieper
  (188-C-93)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Meesseman, Ieper3.3 
 2. Boonen, BBC Boom2.2 
 3. Dennett, Sint K.1.4 
 4. Gaither, Dexia N.1.3 
 5. Arts, BBC Boom1.0 
 6. Medvedeva, Waregem1.0 
 7. Hoehne, R.Spirou.1.0 
 8. Lentacker, Jeugd G.0.9 
 9. Malfait, Jeugd G.0.8 
 10. Raman, Waregem0.7 


Standings - Women
D1 Standings
 1. Sint Kateline 11-2 
 2. BBC Boom 11-2 
 3. Waregem 11-3 
 4. Dexia 9-5 
 5. Ieper 8-4 
 6. Houthalen 5-8 
 7. Willebroek 5-8 
 8. R.Spirou M. 5-8 
 9. Jeugd Gentson 4-10 
 10. Deerlijk 3-12 
 11. Point Chaud 2-12 


*****************************************************
  BRAZIL - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Ariadna FELIPE
  Santo Andre
  (179-G/F-83)
  Avg: 22.6
 1. Felipe, Santo Andre22.6 
 2. Oliveira, Basque.16.7 
 3. Crepaldi, Basque.15.5 
 4. de Sousa, Joinville14.9 
 5. Marcal, Acucar14.7 
 6. Da Costa, Basque.14.5 
 7. Martins, Americana14.5 
 8. Santos Luz, Acucar14.3 
 9. Santos, Acucar14.2 
 10. Jacintho, Santo A.14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Clarissa SANTOS
  Acucar
  (182-C-88)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Santos, Acucar13.7 
 2. Nascimiento, Basque.12.0 
 3. Da Costa, Basque.11.2 
 4. Gomes, Sao Caetano9.0 
 5. Felipe, Santo Andre8.0 
 6. Dantas, Americana7.6 
 7. Ferreira, Sao C.7.3 
 8. Plutin, Ourinhos6.7 
 9. Garvao, Santo Andre6.6 
 10. Lima, Santo Andre6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Natalia MARES BURIAN
  Acucar
  (168-G-84)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Mares Burian, Acu.6.5 
 2. Vasconcelos, Ourin.4.7 
 3. de Souza, Ourinhos4.3 
 4. Santos Luz, Acucar4.2 
 5. Garvao, Santo Andre4.0 
 6. Honorio, Americana4.0 
 7. de Oliveira, Santo A.3.8 
 8. Gattei, Acucar3.7 
 9. Paulino, Basquete.3.7 
 10. Martins, Americana3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Bruna DUARTE
  M.Petrobras
  (173-G/F-81)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Duarte, M.Petrob.3.4 
 2. Oliveira, Basque.2.7 
 3. de Souza, Ourinhos2.7 
 4. de Sousa, Joinville2.6 
 5. Dantas, Americana2.2 
 6. Cavallaro, Santo A.2.0 
 7. Jacintho, Santo A.2.0 
 8. Garvao, Santo Andre2.0 
 9. Felipe, Santo Andre1.9 
 10. Martins, Americana1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Isis NASCIMIENTO
  Basquete Clube
  (202-C-83)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Nascimiento, Basque.2.8 
 2. Garvao, Santo Andre1.1 
 3. Gomes, Sao Caetano1.1 
 4. Rado, Acucar1.0 
 5. Felipe, Santo Andre0.9 
 6. de Souza, Ameri.0.7 
 7. Vasconcelos, Ourin.0.7 
 8. Santos, M.Petrob.0.7 
 9. Andrade, Sao C.0.6 
 10. da Silva, Joinville0.6 


Standings - CNBF
LBF Standings
 1. Americana 13-1 
 2. Santo Andre 12-2 
 3. Acucar 11-3 
 4. Ourinhos 7-7 
 5. M.Petrobras 4-9 
 6. Joinville 4-10 
 7. Basquete Clube 2-11 
 8. Sao Caetano 2-12 


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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


USK Praha surprise Taranto in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Taranto - USK Praha 56:73

USK Praha made a huge step towards Euroleague quarterfinal stage. They upset Taranto in Italy tonight to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three eighth-final series. USK Praha will have a chance to sweep the series at home court on Friday. Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89) stepped up with 21 points to lead the charge.
USK Praha strongly entered the game. They stayed in charge throughout the bigger part of the opening term posting a 26:22 lead after ten minutes. Taranto adjusted in the second quarter. Megan Mahoney (183-F-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas St.) gave the hosts a 30:26 lead midway through the stanza. Dacic and Godin helped the hosts record a 39:35 halftime advantage. However Katerina Elhotova opened the second half with back-to-back three-pointer to set the tone. She fired 11 points in the period and USK Praha silenced the fans grabbing a 58:45 advantage at the final intermission. Katerina Elhotova, Whalen and Eva Viteckova (189-F-82) boosted the margin to 19 points midway through the fourth term and USK Praha rolled to the win at the end. Eva Viteckova netted 19 points for USK Praha. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) had 13 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists in the victory. Kathy Wambe (173-G-81) replied with 17 points for Taranto. Megan Mahoney delivered 15 points in the loss.

Taranto: Kathy Wambe 17, Megan Mahoney 15
USK Praha: Katerina Elhotova 21, Eva Viteckova 19, Delisha Milton-Jones 13+10 boards


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  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


Euroleague Round: 1 (1/8 Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Wisla Can-Pak - Nadezhda O. 75-70 OT
Wisla needed overtime to beat Nadezhda in the Eighth-Final play-offs opener in Krakow. The Polish team took 1-0 in the series as both teams will travel now to Orenburg. It was actually an easy start for the POlish team that erupted with 27-13 in the first period. Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford) closed the first quarter and she also brought 30:13 opening the second stanza. Nadezhda did not need too much time to recover and Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) reduced to 38:33. Later in the third quarter Wisla had 10-12 points deficit, while Tina Charles and Christon reduced to 57:50 after 30 minutes. Nadezhda trailed 12 points with 6 minutes in the fourth quarter, while later they produced a 12-0 run and did not allow Wisla to score anymore in the period. Only in overtime the hosts needed 9-4 to grab the win. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) and Nicole Powell scored the last points for Wisla to celebrate the first victory. Erin Phillips (173-G-85) poured in 18 points to lead all the winners, while Nicole Powell collected 16 points and 11 rebounds. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82, agency: Data Plus Group) also scored 16, whilst Yelena Leuchanka added 10. Tina Charles replied with 24 points and 12 rebounds in defeat and Liudmila Sapova (185-F-84) posted 16.

Bourges - Dobri Anjeli 76-68
More than 3000 fans supported local Bourges Basket in the first win over Good Angels Kosice at the Eighth-Final play-offs of EuroLeague. The French team won the opener 76:68 due to the last period. Crystal Langhorne (188-F/C-86, college: Maryland) is back to EuroLeague after the first half with UMMC and opened the game for the guests. She also scored for 6:4, while Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) made it 19:13. No matter how hard the hoists tried to recover they could not do it in the first half. Dupree made it 25:19 and Marina Solopova nailed three for 36:23. Bourges managed to create a 6-0 run at the end of the half as Catherine Joens (180-G-82) reduced to 30;36 at the halftime. After 22-22 in the third quarter the board showed 58:52 lead for Good Angels Kosice, but they could not keep the win. Catherine Joens nailed three for 62:60 early in the fourth and Styliani Kaltsidou (188-C/F-83) scored for 69:66. Styliani Kaltsidou and Miljkovic were perfect from the free throw line at the end for the final success. Catherine Joens paced all the winners with 18 points and Emmeline Ndongue (190-C-83) nailed 14. Styliani Kaltsidou notched 13, whilst Miljkovic added 11. New signings of the guests Crystal Langhorne scored 22 points and Marina Solopova brought 14.

Spartak V MR - Familia Schio 65-60
The Euroleague defending champions Spartak MR claimed the first win in their eighth-final series against Schio. Trailing for the most part of the game Spartak came up late in regulation and stole the victory. Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) led the effort with 23 points. Game 2 is scheduled for February 4 in Italy. Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota), Liron Cohen (173-G-82) and Raffaella Masciadri helped Schio to a quick start. The visitors grabbed a 12:6 lead early on. Schio stayed in front and posted a 25:21 advantage after ten minutes. Jelena Milovanovic and Quinn helped Spartak erase the deficit. However Raffaella Masciadri, Yacoubou and Nadalin secured a 39:33 lead for Schio at halftime. Liron Cohen and Janel McCarville opened a double-digit lead for Schio early in the third term. The hosts got within 5 late in the period before Macchi established a 52:45 lead at the final intermission. Jelena Milovanovic drained a pair of three-pointers midway through the fourth quarter to narrow the gap to a single point. Later she nailed a jumper to put Spartak MR in front 58:57. Janel McCarville drew things level but Jelena Milovanovic and Petrovic followed with seven points in a row and Spartak MR ran away for good. Epiphanny Prince (175-G-88, college: Rutgers) notched 16 points for Spartak MR. Sue Bird (175-G-80, college: Connecticut) added 10 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds in the victory. Liron Cohen answered with 18 points for Schio. Janel McCarville tallied 15 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.

Perfumerias - Pecs 2010 76-60
Salamanca enjoy the first win of local Halcon Avenida that won the opener of the EuroLeague Women Eighth-final against Pecs 2010. The Spanish representative produced a 76:60 win to get 60 points from big four. Erika DeSouza (197-C-82) paced all the winners with 16 points, while Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) and Alba Torrens (184-F-89) followed her with 15 apiece. Snell ended up with 14 points for the first win in the series. Although the board showed 22-18 after the first period, the guests looked better in it. They led in the majority of it and scored some good baskets. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) made it 26:25, while the hosts grabbed a bigger lead after De Mondt and De Souza late baskets in the half. Pecs 2010 again was too far to give up and won the third period 20-14. Raksanyi nailed three to reduce to the minimum, while Lyttle gave Salamance 50:47 after 30 minutes. In the fourth quarter the hosts controlled the game and reached the first win. Lyttle closed the game from the perimeter for the final success. Allie Quigley (180-G-86, college: DePaul) ended up with 22 points for the visiting side, while Zsofia Fegyverneky and Kelsey Griffin (188-F-87, college: Nebraska) posted 10 each.

UMMC - Rivas Ecopolis 63-58
UMMC opened their eighth-final series against Rivas Ecopolis with victory. Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) knocked down 21 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead UMMC to a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series. The teams will travel to Spain for the second game slated for February 4. The teams stayed close throughout the opening frame. The lead changed hands for several times before DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, college: Auburn) tied things up at 16. DeWanna Bonner and Courtney Paris (193-C-87, college: Oklahoma) put Rivas Ecopolis in charge early in the second term. But UMMC soon erased the deficit and surged ahead. Rivas Ecopolis retained the lead late in the half as Cruz ensured a 31:30 lead for the visitors at halftime. Candace Parker (193-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) and Sandrine Gruda opened the second half with six straight points as UMMC took over. But the hosts did not manage to clear off. They were up by just two points at the final break 47:45. Rivas Ecopolis tipped off the fourth stanza with five points in a row as rollercoaster action continued. Sandrine Gruda finally managed to pull UMMC in front 57:50 midway through the stanza. Five consecutive points from DeWanna Bonner helped Rivas Ecopolis got within 2 points but Stepanova converted a three-point play and sealed the win for UMMC. Candace Parker nailed 10 points and collected 7 rebounds for the winners. DeWanna Bonner responded with 19 points and 9 boards for Rivas Ecopolis. Courtney Paris had 12 points in defeat.

Taranto - USK Praha 56-73
USK Praha made a huge step towards Euroleague quarterfinal stage. They upset Taranto in Italy tonight to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three eighth-final series. USK Praha will have a chance to sweep the series at home court on Friday. Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89) stepped up with 21 points to lead the charge. USK Praha strongly entered the game. They stayed in charge throughout the bigger part of the opening term posting a 26:22 lead after ten minutes. Taranto adjusted in the second quarter. Megan Mahoney (183-F-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas St.) gave the hosts a 30:26 lead midway through the stanza. Dacic and Godin helped the hosts record a 39:35 halftime advantage. However Katerina Elhotova opened the second half with back-to-back three-pointer to set the tone. She fired 11 points in the period and USK Praha silenced the fans grabbing a 58:45 advantage at the final intermission. Katerina Elhotova, Whalen and Eva Viteckova (189-F-82) boosted the margin to 19 points midway through the fourth term and USK Praha rolled to the win at the end. Eva Viteckova netted 19 points for USK Praha. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74, college: Florida) had 13 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists in the victory. Kathy Wambe (173-G-81) replied with 17 points for Taranto. Megan Mahoney delivered 15 points in the loss.

Fenerbahce - Galatasaray 77-58
Fenerbahce rallied past Galatasaray in the Euroleague eighth-final series opener. Nevriye Yilmaz (195-C-80) came up with 24 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists to pace Fenerbahce in the battle of archrivals. Fenerbahce extended their unbeaten Euroleague run to eleven games now. Fenerbahce showed their ambitions early in the encounter. The hosts opened the game with eight points in a row. Soon the hosts posted a 14:2 lead. Hodges sparked a 9:0 run from Galatasaray late in the period as the visitors drew things level at 18. However Jekabsone capped the period with two free throws to give Fenerbahce a 20:18 lead. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. Vardarli and Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) crowned the half with three points as the home team posted a 36:33 advantage. The hosts tipped off the third term with eleven points in a row to clear off. Ivana Matovic knocked down five consecutive points later in the period as the hosts piled up a 54:39 lead. Fenerbahce entered the final quarter up by 16 points 58:42. Tuncluer and Nevriye Yilmaz stretched the lead to 20 points in the fourth quarter and Fenerbahce rolled to the victory at the end. Ivana Matovic nailed 14 points for Fenerbahce. Angel McCoughtry (185-F-86, college: Louisville) added 13 points in the victory. Seimone Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) responded with 19 points for Galatasaray. Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) provided 8 points in the loss.

Ros Casares - MKB Eurol. 84-56
Ros Casares edged MKB Euroleasing at the EuroLeague Women Eighth-final in Spain. On of the EuroLeague favorites easily reached 84:56 win in Valencia. Kathryn Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) gave the first lead for the hosts and Edwige Lawson-Wade (167-G-79) brought 15:10. Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) increased the lead to double figures and Coleman closed the period at 26:18. In the second quarter the Hungarian team looked better and after 20-18 in it reduced to 44:38 at the halftime. The third quarter however brought a clear picture about the winner. Lima, Kathryn Douglas and Vesela gave the home side 50:42, while Kathryn Douglas scored for 62:44. Kathryn Douglas also nailed three to open the last quarter and Vesela made it 70:46. Martinez scored both free throws at the very end for the first win in the series. Edwige Lawson-Wade and Rebekkah Brunson top-scored for the winners with 16 points each, while the latter also added 12 rebounds. Kathryn Douglas posted 15 and Marta Fernandez (178-F-81) netted 10. Coleman ended up with 14 points and 12 rebounds in the losing effort. Amber Holt (183-G/F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) notched 13, whilst Kata Honti (175-G-87) poured in 10.



Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Diana TAURASI
  Fenerbahce
  (182-F/G-82)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Taurasi, Fenerbahce24.6 
 2. McCoughtry, MKB E.22.0 
 3. Taylor, Fenerbahce19.2 
 4. Charles, Nadezhda.19.0 
 5. Bonner, Rivas E.18.5 
 6. Yilmaz, Fenerbahce17.4 
 7. Wright, Lotos G.17.4 
 8. Jackson, Spartak .17.3 
 9. Torrens, Perfumer.17.2 
 10. Reid, Gospic17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cheryl FORD
  Frisco Sika
  (191-F/C-81)
  Avg: 14.2
 1. Ford, Frisco Sika14.2 
 2. Charles, Nadezhda.12.7 
 3. Hollingswort., TTT R.10.5 
 4. Lyttle, Perfumer.9.9 
 5. Brunson, Ros C.9.9 
 6. Fowles, Galatasa.9.8 
 7. Dupree, Dobri Anjeli9.5 
 8. Leuchanka, Gorzow9.2 
 9. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.8.9 
 10. Bonner, Rivas E.8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Reid, Gospic5.3 
 2. Ivanyi, Pecs 20105.2 
 3. Whalen, USK Praha4.8 
 4. Taurasi, Fenerbahce4.7 
 5. Skerovic, Frisco Sika4.7 
 6. Dominguez, Perfumer.4.3 
 7. Zirkova, Dobri Anjeli4.2 
 8. Sharp, Mondeville4.1 
 9. Hammon, Nadezhda.4.0 
 10. Babkina, Lotos G.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Maurita REID
  Gospic
  (173-G-85)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Reid, Gospic3.8 
 2. Phillips, Wisla C.2.4 
 3. Lyttle, Perfumer.2.4 
 4. McCoughtry, MKB E.2.3 
 5. Bimbaite, VICI K.2.3 
 6. Wright, Lotos G.2.1 
 7. Leedham, Gorzow2.1 
 8. Bonner, Rivas E.2.0 
 9. Prince, Spartak .2.0 
 10. Hammon, Nadezhda.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  Nadezhda O.
  (192-C-87)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.3.4 
 2. Jackson, Spartak .1.6 
 3. Ndongue, Bourges1.6 
 4. Fowles, Galatasa.1.5 
 5. Tamane, MKB Eurol.1.4 
 6. Stepanova, UMMC1.4 
 7. Charles, Nadezhda.1.3 
 8. McCoughtry, Fener.1.3 
 9. Hollingswort., TTT R.1.1 
 10. Burse, Wisla C.1.1 


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  FINLAND - Women  


Finnish D1 round 20 best performance: Niina Laaksonen - by Eurobasket News
International power forward Niina Laaksonen (185-F/C-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Espoo Team, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 20.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 21 points and 16 rebounds, while her team outclassed HoNsU (#7, 5-14) with 31-point margin 88-57. Espoo Team is placed at 2nd position in Finnish D1. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Espoo Team will need more victories to improve their 12-7 record. It's Laaksonen's second year at Espoo Team and it's hard to imagine this team without her. Niina Laaksonen has solid league stats. She is in league's top in points (9th best: 17.7ppg), rebounds (4th best: 11.4rpg) and averages impressive 53.5% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 22-year old American Dandra Moss (183-F-88) of Torpan Pojat Helsinki. Moss had a very good evening with 25 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Of course she lead ToPo to another comfortable win outscoring slightly higher-ranked Huima (#4, 12-8) 88-56. ToPo's 6th position in the standings has not changed. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 11-9 record is not bad and everything may still change. Moss is a newcomer at ToPo, but is already one of team's top players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.8ppg (#1). Her other stats are also decent: 12.5rpg and 3.2apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was international forward Dionne Pounds (174-F-84) of HoNsU Jyvaskyla (#7). Pounds scored 20 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Pounds' great performance HoNsU lost 57-88 to the higher-ranked Espoo Team (#2, 12-7). But her team cannot count on just a single player as she also needs help of the other teammates. HoNsU can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 5-14 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Pounds she does not play for a better team. But maybe if she did, her season stats would not be that high. Pounds has individually a great season in Finland. After 19 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 23.3ppg (3rd best) and assists with 3.9apg (best passer).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Judy Wright (172-G-84) of FoA - 15 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77) of ToPo - 17 points and 9 rebounds
6. Laura Wilson (185-G-84) of Espoo Team - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Anette Juvonen (170-G-93) of ToPo - 16 points and 2 rebounds
8. Lisa Karcic (185-F/C-86) of Kerava - 18 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Mirka Dettmann (173-F-72) of Espoo Team - 13 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Michele Jones (186-F/C-87) of Huima - 11 points and 10 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)

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  FRANCE - Women  


LFB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mistie BASS-WILLIAMS
  Challes
  (191-C-83)
  Avg: 19.4
 1. Bass-W., Challes19.4 
 2. Humphrey, Landes17.5 
 3. Akonga Nsimb., Arr.16.6 
 4. Grima, Aix-en-P.16.3 
 5. Mann, Charleville15.9 
 6. Sharp, Mondeville15.8 
 7. Dubljevic, Tarbes14.8 
 8. Covington, Union H.14.6 
 9. Sanni, Villeneuve14.4 
 10. Jones, Toulouse14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aurelie BONNAN
  Mondeville
  (187-F-83)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Bonnan, Mondeville11.8 
 2. Diawara, Charleville10.8 
 3. Bass-W., Challes9.9 
 4. Humphrey, Landes9.9 
 5. Neaves, Aix-en-P.9.9 
 6. Sanni, Villeneuve9.2 
 7. Kamba, Union H.8.7 
 8. Bales, Union Hainaut8.7 
 9. Matic, Tarbes7.4 
 10. Thomas, Villeneuve6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Natalie HURST
  Aix-en-Provence
  (163-G-83)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Hurst, Aix-en-P.5.3 
 2. Aubert, Nantes5.0 
 3. Lepron, Tarbes4.7 
 4. Manic, Landes4.1 
 5. Bar, Challes4.0 
 6. Sharp, Mondeville3.9 
 7. Tanqueray, Villeneuve3.9 
 8. Mitchell, Arras