EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/12/2011

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


Men News

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


Standings
Adriatic League Standings
 1. Krka 17-7 
 2. Partizan 16-8 
 3. Union Olimpija 16-8 
 4. KK Zagreb CO 14-11 
 5. Buducnost 13-11 
 6. Cedevita 12-12 
 7. Radnicki 12-12 
 8. Hemofarm 12-12 
 9. CEZ Nymburk 12-13 
 10. Igokea 11-13 
 11. Cibona 10-14 
 12. Siroki TT 10-14 
 13. Crvena Zvezda 7-17 
 14. Zadar 7-17 


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Michael LEE
  Radnicki
  (207-F-86)
  Avg: 19.9
 1. Lee, Radnicki19.9 
 2. Macvan, Hemofarm19.2 
 3. Zoric, KK.19.2 
 4. Bogdanovic, Cibona19.0 
 5. Marsh, Crvena Z.18.6 
 6. Edwards, Cedevita17.5 
 7. Draper, Cedevita17.5 
 8. Car, Zadar16.3 
 9. Chase, Igokea16.1 
 10. Dragicevic, Buduc.15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Zoric, KK.8.2 
 2. Dragicevic, Buduc.7.0 
 3. Macvan, Hemofarm6.8 
 4. Harvey, Igokea6.8 
 5. Necas, CEZ Nymburk6.5 
 6. Gist, Partizan6.4 
 7. Kasun, KK.6.3 
 8. Savovic, Hemofarm6.0 
 9. Benda, CEZ Nymburk5.8 
 10. Lee, Radnicki5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Dontaye DRAPER
  Cedevita
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Draper, Cedevita5.4 
 2. Pavkovic, Hemofarm5.1 
 3. Markovic, Radnicki5.0 
 4. Morovic, Siroki TT4.1 
 5. Chase, Igokea4.0 
 6. Renfroe, KK.3.7 
 7. Ilievski, Union O.3.7 
 8. Car, Zadar3.5 
 9. Nissim, CEZ N.3.5 
 10. Simon, KK.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Dontaye DRAPER
  Cedevita
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Draper, Cedevita2.3 
 2. Stemberger, Siroki T.2.2 
 3. Lee, Radnicki2.1 
 4. Car, Zadar1.9 
 5. Pumprla, CEZ N.1.9 
 6. Renfroe, KK.1.8 
 7. Dragic, Krka1.8 
 8. Simmons, CEZ N.1.6 
 9. Radosevic, Cibona1.6 
 10. Cakarevic, Radnicki1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Zoric, KK.1.3 
 2. Nikolic, Crvena Z.1.1 
 3. Dragicevic, Buduc.1.0 
 4. Shermadini, Union O.0.9 
 5. Radosevic, Cibona0.9 
 6. Kasun, KK.0.9 
 7. Jawai, Partizan0.8 
 8. Gist, Partizan0.7 
 9. Vesely, Partizan0.7 
 10. Macvan, Hemofarm0.7 


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


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


Standings - TNA
TNA Standings
TNA1
 1. Ciclista 8-3 
 2. Alvear 7-4 
 3. Bragado 6-5 
 4. San Mart.C. 6-5 
 5. Quilmes MP 6-5 
 6. A.Italiana 5-6 
 7. Obera TC 4-7 
 8. Firmat SF 2-9 
TNA2
 1. Union S. 8-3 
 2. San Mart.MJ 8-3 
 3. Tucuman BB 7-4 
 4. Banda Norte 5-6 
 5. Union Progr. 5-6 
 6. A.Espanola 4-7 
 7. Gimnasia VP 4-7 
 8. Adelante 3-8 


Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game
 David JACKSON
  La Union
  (196-G-82)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Jackson, La Union20.3 
 2. Bunn, Argentino18.9 
 3. Lo Grippo, Quimsa17.5 
 4. Meyinsse, Club 916.9 
 5. Johnson, Monte H.16.8 
 6. Gutierrez, Obras16.3 
 7. Galindo, Libertad S.15.9 
 8. White, Monte H.14.8 
 9. Taylor, Lanus14.6 
 10. Gutierrez, Penarol14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Juan GUTIERREZ
  Obras
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 10.1
 1. Gutierrez, Obras10.1 
 2. Kammerichs, Regat.10.0 
 3. Battle, Libertad S.9.2 
 4. Rollins, Gimnasia.9.0 
 5. Kante, Olimpico LB8.6 
 6. Williams, Atenas8.3 
 7. Alston, Boca Jrs8.2 
 8. Johnson, Monte H.8.0 
 9. Leiva, Penarol7.5 
 10. Mikulas, La Union7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudiantes
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Sanchez, Estudian.6.6 
 2. Martinez, Regat.5.8 
 3. Labaque, Atenas5.2 
 4. Salles, Monte H.5.0 
 5. Ginobili, Libertad S.4.6 
 6. Cequeira, Obras4.2 
 7. Franco, Sionista3.7 
 8. Treise, Quimsa3.5 
 9. Sartorelli, Argentino3.1 
 10. Laws, Olimpico LB3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudiantes
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Sanchez, Estudian.3.3 
 2. Sciutto, Monte H.2.7 
 3. Cequeira, Obras2.4 
 4. Martinez, Regat.2.4 
 5. Salles, Monte H.2.4 
 6. Lamonte, Penarol2.3 
 7. Williams, Atenas2.3 
 8. Labaque, Atenas2.3 
 9. Okosa, Gimnasia CR2.2 
 10. Moodie, Boca Jrs2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Battle, Libertad S.2.0 
 2. Johnson, Monte H.1.3 
 3. Meyinsse, Club 91.3 
 4. Kammerichs, Regat.1.2 
 5. Gutierrez, Obras1.1 
 6. Alston, Boca Jrs1.0 
 7. Williams, Atenas0.9 
 8. Tintorelli, Quimsa0.8 
 9. Levy, Lanus0.8 
 10. Aguerre, Estudian.0.8 


TNA Round 11 of Second Stage - by Eurobasket News
The most interesting game of round 11 was a home defeat of 8th ranked Adelante (3-8) to seventh ranked Asociacion Espanola (4-7) 80-68. Asociacion Espanola moved-up to sixth place in TNA2, which they share with Gimnasia VP. Adelante lost fifth consecutive game. Adelante at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the eighth position with eight games lost. Asociacion Espanola is looking forward to face higher ranked Tucuman BB (#3) in Tandil in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Adelante will play at home against Union Progresista (#5) in Villa Angela and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
Important game to mention about took place in Villa Angela. Third ranked Alvear (7-4) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th placed San Martin Corrientes (6-5) 90-88 in the game for the second place. Alvear moved-up to second place in TNA1. San Martin Corrientes at the other side dropped to the third position with five games lost. They share it with Quilmes MP and Bragado. Alvear will play against Obera TC (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. San Martin Corrientes will play against Asociacion Italiana (#6) in Charata and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Mar del Plata. Second-ranked host Quilmes MP (6-5) lost to first ranked Ciclista (8-3) 87-80. Ciclista have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place in TNA1 with 8-3 record. Loser Quilmes MP dropped to the third position with five games lost. They share it with San Mart.C. and Bragado. Ciclista will meet Bragado (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Quilmes MP will play against Firmat SF in Santa Fe and hope to secure a win and be promoted back to the LigaA just one year after relegation.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Marcos Juarez. Second ranked host San Martin Marcos Juarez (8-3) defeated 4th placed Banda Norte (5-6). San Martin Marcos Juarez keeps a position of TNA2 leader, which they share with Union S. Newly promoted Banda Norte keeps the fourth place with six games lost. San Martin Marcos Juarez's next round opponent will be league's leader Union de Sunchales at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Banda Norte will play against Gimnasia VP in Necochea.
TNA top team - Union de Sunchales (8-3) added another victory to their record on Wednesday. This time they beat sixth ranked Gimnasia VP (4-7) in Necochea 75-71. Union de Sunchales maintains first place in TNA2 with 8-3 record, which they share with San Mart.MJ. Newly promoted Gimnasia VP keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. Union de Sunchales will face league's second-placed San Martin Marcos Juarez on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Gimnasia VP will play against Banda Norte (#4) in Rio Cuarto and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 11:
In TNA1 Firmat SF lost to Bragado on the opponent's court 74-84. A.Italiana outscored Obera TC in a home game 91-70.
In TNA2 Union Progr. recorded a loss to Tucuman BB on the road 80-71.

TNA1
Bragado - Firmat SF 84-74

Rather expected game when 8th ranked Firmat SF (2-9) was defeated on the road by fifth ranked Bragado (6-5) 84-74 on Wednesday. Bragado moved-up to third place in TNA1, which they share with San Mart.C. and Quilmes MP. Firmat SF lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with nine games lost. Bragado will face league's leader Ciclista in Juninense in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Firmat SF will play on the road against Quilmes MP (#5) in Mar del Plata.
gschID: 121193


A.Italiana - Obera TC 91-70

Everything could happen in Charata at the game between two tied teams. Both seventh ranked Asociacion Italiana and 6th ranked Obera TC had identical 4-6 record. This time Asociacion Italiana used a home court advantage and smashed the opponent from Obera 91-70 on Wednesday night. Asociacion Italiana (5-6) moved-up to sixth place in TNA1. Loser Obera TC dropped to the seventh position with seven games lost. Asociacion Italiana will face higher ranked San Martin Corrientes (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Obera TC will play against the league's second-placed Alvear in Villa Angela.
gschID: 121194


Quilmes MP - Ciclista 80-87

The game between Top Four teams took place in Mar del Plata. Second-ranked host Quilmes MP (6-5) lost to first ranked Ciclista (8-3) 87-80. Ciclista have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place in TNA1 with 8-3 record. Loser Quilmes MP dropped to the third position with five games lost. They share it with San Mart.C. and Bragado. Ciclista will meet Bragado (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Quilmes MP will play against Firmat SF in Santa Fe and hope to secure a win and be promoted back to the LigaA just one year after relegation.
gschID: 121191


Alvear - San Mart.C. 90-88

Important game to mention about took place in Villa Angela. Third ranked Alvear (7-4) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th placed San Martin Corrientes (6-5) 90-88 in the game for the second place. Alvear moved-up to second place in TNA1. San Martin Corrientes at the other side dropped to the third position with five games lost. They share it with Quilmes MP and Bragado. Alvear will play against Obera TC (#7) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. San Martin Corrientes will play against Asociacion Italiana (#6) in Charata and hopes to get back on the winning track.
gschID: 121192


TNA2
Adelante - A.Espanola 68-80

The most interesting game of round 11 was a home defeat of 8th ranked Adelante (3-8) to seventh ranked Asociacion Espanola (4-7) 80-68. Asociacion Espanola moved-up to sixth place in TNA2, which they share with Gimnasia VP. Adelante lost fifth consecutive game. Adelante at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the eighth position with eight games lost. Asociacion Espanola is looking forward to face higher ranked Tucuman BB (#3) in Tandil in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Adelante will play at home against Union Progresista (#5) in Villa Angela and is hoping to prove to their supporters that they can break losing series.
gschID: 121196


Gimnasia VP - Union S. 71-75

TNA top team - Union de Sunchales (8-3) added another victory to their record on Wednesday. This time they beat sixth ranked Gimnasia VP (4-7) in Necochea 75-71. Union de Sunchales maintains first place in TNA2 with 8-3 record, which they share with San Mart.MJ. Newly promoted Gimnasia VP keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. Union de Sunchales will face league's second-placed San Martin Marcos Juarez on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Gimnasia VP will play against Banda Norte (#4) in Rio Cuarto and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 121197


Tucuman BB - Union Progr. 80-71

Not a big story in a game in Tandil where 5th ranked Union Progresista (5-6) was defeated by third ranked Tucuman BB (7-4) 80-71 on Wednesday. Tucuman BB have a solid series of three victories in a row. Newly promoted Tucuman BB maintains third place in TNA2 with 7-4 record behind leader Ciclista. Union Progresista at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the fourth position with six games lost. Tucuman BB will face Asociacion Espanola (#6) in Charata in the next round. Union Progresista will play on the road against Adelante in Reconquista.
gschID: 121198


San Mart.MJ - Banda Norte 76-70

The game between Top Four teams took place in Marcos Juarez. Second ranked host San Martin Marcos Juarez (8-3) defeated 4th placed Banda Norte (5-6). San Martin Marcos Juarez keeps a position of TNA2 leader, which they share with Union S. Newly promoted Banda Norte keeps the fourth place with six games lost. San Martin Marcos Juarez's next round opponent will be league's leader Union de Sunchales at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Banda Norte will play against Gimnasia VP in Necochea.
gschID: 121195




LigaA Round 24: Regatas defeats leader Obras - by Eurobasket News
The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked Obras (16-8) on the court of eleventh ranked Regatas Corrientes on Thursday night. Visitors were defeated by Regatas Corrientes 78-72. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 22-15. But Obras won second period 17-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for the former international power forward Federico Kammerichs (203-80) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds. Guard Javier Martinez (189-78, agency: Dream Team Management) contributed with 17 points and 7 assists for the winners. American forward William McFarlan (201-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas, agency: Dream Team Management) replied with 14 points and 9 rebounds for Obras. Obras' coach Julio Cesar Lamas rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Regatas Corrientes have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain eleventh position with 10-12 record. Obras at the other side still keeps top place with eight games lost. Regatas Corrientes are looking forward to face higher ranked Atenas (#7) in Cordoba in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Obras will play at home against Penarol (#3) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Lanus (15-9) against fourteenth ranked Olimpico de La Banda (9-14) on Wednesday night. Visiting Lanus was defeated by Olimpico de La Banda in La Banda 70-60. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Djibril Kante (201-80, college: Indiana St.) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 8 rebounds and Diego Guaita who added 11 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American center Terrell Taylor (203-81, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Dream Team Management) with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 17 rebounds. Lanus' coach Silvio Jose Santander tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Olimpico de La Banda have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to thirteenth place. Lanus at the other side keeps the second position with nine games lost. They share it with Penarol and La Union. Olimpico de La Banda will play against higher ranked Libertad Sunchales (#5) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Lanus will play against Quimsa in Santiado Estero and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Rio Tercero between Boca Juniors and Club 9. Thirteenth ranked Boca Juniors (10-15) got a very close victory on the road over 10th ranked Club 9 (11-13). Boca Juniors managed to escape with a 3-point win 88-85 on Wednesday evening. The winners were led by Derrick Alston who had that evening a double-double by scoring 23 points and 13 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Even 21 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists by Martin Melo did not help to save the game for Club 9. Boca Juniors moved-up to twelfth place. Newly promoted Club 9 keeps the tenth position with 13 games lost. Boca Juniors will meet at home higher ranked Atenas (#7) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Club 9 will play against Sionista in Parana and hope to secure a win.
The game between fourth ranked Penarol (15-9) and 8th ranked Quimsa (11-12) in Mar del Plata ended with biggest points difference. Penarol beat guests from Santiado Estero 96-81. The best player for the winners was Leonardo Gutierrez who scored 20 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion moved-up to second place, which they share with La Union and Lanus. Quimsa at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 12 games lost. Penarol's next round opponent will be league's leader Obras in Buenos Aires and it will be for sure the game of the week. Quimsa will play on the road against Estudiantes (#8) in Bahia Blanca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 24: Argentino was beaten by Libertad S. on the road 80-71. Monte Hermoso lost to Atenas on its own court 83-92. Gimnasia CR unfortunately lost to La Union in Formosa 78-84. Bottom-ranked Sionista recorded a loss to Estudiantes at home 93-100.
The most impressive performance of 24th round was 27 points and 9 rebounds by Alejandro Zilli of Sionista.

Penarol - Quimsa 96-81

The game between fourth ranked Penarol (15-9) and 8th ranked Quimsa (11-12) in Mar del Plata ended with biggest points difference. Penarol beat guests from Santiado Estero 96-81. The game was mostly controlled by Penarol. Quimsa was better in second period 27-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They shot the lights out from three nailing 15 long-distance shots on high 55.6 percentage. Penarol players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. The best player for the winners was international forward Leonardo Gutierrez (200-78) who scored 20 points. The former international power forward Martin Leiva (208-80) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Panamanian forward Dionisio Gomez Camargo (203-80, college: Arkansas) who recorded 19 points and 6 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) and the former international forward Diego Lo Grippo (198-78) added 13 points respectively. Five Penarol and four Quimsa players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion moved-up to second place, which they share with La Union and Lanus. Quimsa at the other side dropped to the ninth position with 12 games lost. Penarol's next round opponent will be league's leader Obras in Buenos Aires and it will be for sure the game of the week. Quimsa will play on the road against Estudiantes (#8) in Bahia Blanca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Quimsa: D.Gomez Camargo 19+6reb+3ast, A.Marin 13+3reb, D.Lo Grippo 13+3reb+1ast, D.Tintorelli 12+4reb, J.Mazzaro 9+1reb+3ast, R.Gonzalez 6
Penarol: L.Gutierrez 20+4reb+2ast, P.Sebastian Rodriguez 16+1reb+7ast, N.Lauria 15+3reb+3ast, M.Leiva 13+11reb+1ast, S.Safar 11+2ast, K.Lamonte 6+4ast
gschID: 117600


Regatas C. - Obras 78-72

The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked Obras (16-8) on the court of eleventh ranked Regatas Corrientes on Thursday night. Visitors were defeated by Regatas Corrientes 78-72. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 22-15. But Obras won second period 17-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for the former international power forward Federico Kammerichs (203-80) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds. Naturalized Paraguayan guard Javier Martinez (189-78, agency: Dream Team Management) contributed with 17 points and 7 assists for the winners. Four Regatas Corrientes players scored in double figures. American forward William McFarlan (201-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas, agency: Dream Team Management) replied with 14 points and 9 rebounds and the former international guard Luis Cequeira (180-85) added 13 points and 5 assists in the effort for Obras. Obras' coach Julio Cesar Lamas rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Regatas Corrientes have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain eleventh position with 10-12 record. Obras at the other side still keeps top place with eight games lost. Regatas Corrientes are looking forward to face higher ranked Atenas (#7) in Cordoba in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Obras will play at home against Penarol (#3) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Obras: W.McFarlan 14+9reb+3ast, L.Cequeira 13+2reb+5ast, A.Alloatti 10+4reb, J.Gutierrez 9+6reb, J.Pittman 9+7reb, L.Gonzalez 8+1ast
Regatas C.: J.Martinez 17+2reb+7ast, N.Romano 16+4reb+3ast, F.Kammerichs 15+14reb+1ast, R.Stanton 10+5reb, E.Villares 8+4ast, C.Edwards 7+1reb+1ast
gschID: 117601


Libertad S. - Argentino 80-71

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Libertad Sunchales (14-10) beat at home 15th ranked Argentino (8-16) 80-71. The hosts were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 24-22 Argentino's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 80-71 at the end of the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Argentino helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American center Robert Battle (204-81, college: Drexel, agency: Dream Team Management) who had a double-double by scoring 28 points, 14 rebounds and 4 blocks. Naturalized Polish center Ruben Wolkowyski (207-73) chipped in 12 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Norman Nolan (202-76, college: Virginia) who recorded 18 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward Joseph Bunn (198-75, college: Phillips (OK)) added 14 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals respectively. Libertad Sunchales moved-up to fifth place. Argentino lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the fifteenth position with 16 games lost. Libertad Sunchales' next round opponent will be Olimpico de La Banda (#13) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Argentino will play against the league's second-placed La Union in Formosa.
Top scorers:
Argentino: N.Nolan 18+5reb+2ast, J.Bunn 14+5reb+4ast, L.Stukes 12+1reb+1ast, S.Scala 9+2reb, J.Cangelosi 8+2reb, L.Martina 5
Libertad S.: R.Battle 28+14reb, A.Galindo 16+2reb+2ast, R.Wolkowyski 12+7reb+1ast, S.Ginobili 8+1reb+9ast, J.Pablo Cantero 7+3reb+3ast, R.Selleaze 6+4reb+1ast
gschID: 117602


Olimpico LB - Lanus 70-60

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Lanus (15-9) against fourteenth ranked Olimpico de La Banda (9-14) on Wednesday night. Visiting Lanus was defeated by Olimpico de La Banda in La Banda 70-60. The game was mostly controlled by Olimpico de La Banda. Lanus was better in fourth quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lanus was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Djibril Kante (201-80, college: Indiana St.) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 8 rebounds and the former international center Diego Guaita (204-83) who added 11 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was American center Terrell Taylor (203-81, college: Virginia Tech, agency: Dream Team Management) with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 17 rebounds and naturalized Italian swingman Adrian Boccia (196-82) scored 10 points. Lanus' coach Silvio Jose Santander tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Olimpico de La Banda have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to thirteenth place. Lanus at the other side keeps the second position with nine games lost. They share it with Penarol and La Union. Olimpico de La Banda will play against higher ranked Libertad Sunchales (#5) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Lanus will play against Quimsa in Santiado Estero and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Lanus: T.Taylor 16+17reb, M.Byro 11+1reb, A.Boccia 10+3reb, N.Laprovittola 7+1reb+2ast, J.Levy 5+8reb, C.Moodie 4+4reb
Olimpico LB: D.Kante 16+8reb, D.Guaita 11+8reb, C.Romero 10+6reb+1ast, L.Picarelli 8+2reb+3ast, E.Agostino 7+3reb+1ast, E.Ruiz 6+3reb
gschID: 117603


Monte Hermoso - Atenas 83-92

Very expected game when 12th ranked Monte Hermoso (9-15) lost at home to seventh ranked Atenas (13-10) 92-83. The guests were already 16 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 29-22 Monte Hermoso's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 92-83 at the end of the game. Atenas made 19-of-20 charity shots (95.0 percent) during the game. Strangely Monte Hermoso outrebounded Atenas 34-22 including 25 on the defensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Monte Hermoso's players. The best player for the winners was American forward Gregory Lewis (198-78, college: Winthrop, agency: Dream Team Management) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). The former international guard Bruno Labaque (183-77, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 21 points, 9 assists and 5 steals. Five Atenas players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American swingman Albert White (197-77, college: Missouri, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded 28 points and his fellow American import forward Chuck Robinson (201-72, college: E.Carolina, agency: Dream Team Management) added 10 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Atenas moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Gimnasia CR. Monte Hermoso lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the fourteenth position with 15 games lost. Atenas' next round opponent will be Regatas Corrientes (#11) at home where they are favorite. Monte Hermoso will play against the league's leader Obras in Buenos Aires.
Top scorers:
Monte Hermoso: A.White 28+2reb, C.Robinson 10+10reb+1ast, C.Paredes 9+3reb, H.Salles 9+3reb+3ast, B.Johnson 8+8reb+1ast, G.Sciutto 8+4reb+1ast
Atenas: G.Lewis 24+10reb+1ast, B.Labaque 21+9ast, M.Lescano 13+1reb+5ast, M.Gerlero 12+5reb+5ast, J.Manuel Rivero 10+1reb+1ast, M.Garcia 10+3reb+2ast
gschID: 117596


La Union - Gimnasia CR 84-78

Rather predictable result when third ranked La Union (15-9) won against 5th ranked Gimnasia CR (13-10) in Formosa 84-78. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 26-22. But Gimnasia CR won second period 28-26. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Gabriel Mikulas (201-80, college: E.Carolina, agency: Interperformances) who scored 20 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Center Pablo Barrios (207-77) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Torraye Braggs (203-76, college: Xavier) who recorded 16 points and 8 rebounds and Nigerian-American power forward Reggie Okosa (206-80, college: La Salle) added 9 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. La Union moved-up to second place, which they share with Penarol and Lanus. Gimnasia CR at the other side dropped to the sixth position with ten games lost. La Union's next round opponent will be Argentino (#15) in Junin which should be an easy win for them. Gimnasia CR will play at home against Penarol (#3) in Mar del Plata.
Top scorers:
Gimnasia CR: T.Braggs 16+8reb+1ast, M.Franco 14+1reb, D.Romero 13+5reb+1ast, A.Carabajal 13+3reb+1ast, R.Okosa 9+9reb+4ast, F.Funes 7+2reb
La Union: G.Mikulas 20+6reb+4ast, D.Jackson 14+2reb+2ast, A.Pau 13+1ast, A.Zago 11+2reb+1ast, P.Barrios 11+5reb+2ast, N.Aguirre 7+4reb+3ast
gschID: 117597


Sionista - Estudiantes 93-100

Not a big story in a game when 16th ranked Sionista (8-16) lost to ninth ranked Estudiantes (12-11) in Parana 93-100. It looked good early as Sionista took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Estudiantes had a 25-17 second period charge getting the lead and Sionista was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 93-100. Estudiantes made 25-of-32 charity shots (78.1 percent) during the game. 28 personal fouls committed by Sionista helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American-Spanish forward Devin Davis (202-74, college: Miami (OH)) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds. Naturalized Spanish guard Pepe Sanchez (193-77, college: Temple) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Alejandro Zilli (200-82) who recorded 27 points and 9 rebounds (went 11 for 11 at the free throw line !!!) and American forward Christopher Hayes (206-87, college: Detroit Mercy) added 17 points and 9 rebounds respectively. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Sionista's coach Sebastian Svetliza let to play ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Estudiantes moved-up to eighth place. Sionista at the other side stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Estudiantes' next round opponent will be Quimsa (#9) in Santiado Estero. Sionista will play on the road against Club 9 (#10) in Rio Tercero.
Top scorers:
Sionista: A.Zilli 27+9reb+3ast, C.Hayes 17+9reb+1ast, R.Iglesias 13+3reb+2ast, P.Franco 11+6ast, M.Fioretti 10+5reb+6ast, J.Manuel Locatelli 6+1reb+2ast
Estudiantes: D.Davis 20+12reb+1ast, J.Espil 19+1reb+1ast, P.Gil 17+2reb+1ast, F.Aguerre 15+7reb+1ast, P.Sanchez 14+1reb+12ast, E.Nelson 10+1reb
gschID: 117598


Club 9 - Boca Jrs 85-88

A very close game took place in Rio Tercero between Boca Juniors and Club 9. Thirteenth ranked Boca Juniors (10-15) got a very close victory on the road over 10th ranked Club 9 (11-13). Boca Juniors managed to escape with a 3-point win 88-85 on Wednesday evening. Club 9 trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 30-22 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 85-88 at the end of the game. Boca Juniors made 22-of-29 free shots (75.9 percent) during the game. The winners were led by American power forward Derrick Alston (208-72, college: Duquesne, agency: Priority Sports) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 23 points and 13 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and guard Juan Brussino (185-91) supported him with 18 points and 5 assists. Even 21 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists by forward Martin Melo (197-82) did not help to save the game for Club 9. American power forward Jerome Meyinsse (206-88, college: Virginia) added 18 points and 5 steals. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Boca Juniors moved-up to twelfth place. Newly promoted Club 9 keeps the tenth position with 13 games lost. Boca Juniors will meet at home higher ranked Atenas (#7) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Club 9 will play against Sionista in Parana and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Club 9: M.Melo 21+8reb+4ast, J.Meyinsse 18+4reb, G.Luchino 17+1reb+1ast, J.Bucknor 14+4reb+2ast, B.Zanotti 10+1reb, E.Martina 5+5reb+1ast
Boca Jrs: D.Alston 23+13reb+1ast, J.Brussino 18+4reb+5ast, M.Fierro 17+4reb, R.Elliott 12+7reb+1ast, S.Vega 7+2reb, L.O'Bannon 7+1reb
gschID: 117599




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


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Breakers 19-5 
 2. Wildcats 15-10 
 3. Crocodiles 14-10 
 4. Hawks 13-12 
 5. Taipans 12-12 
 6. Blaze 11-13 
 7. Tigers 9-14 
 8. 36ers 8-15 
 9. Sydney K. 7-17 


Standings - ABA
ABA Standings
Big V
 1. Bulleen B. 0-0 
 2. Diamond V.E. 0-0 
 3. Eltham W. 0-0 
 4. Hume City 0-0 
 5. Melbourne 0-0 
 6. Ringwood H. 0-0 
 7. Sherbrooke S. 0-0 
 8. Waverley F. 0-0 
Central ABL
 1. C.District L. 0-0 
 2. Eastern M. 0-0 
 3. Forestville E. 0-0 
 4. N.Adelaide R. 0-0 
 5. Norwood F. 0-0 
 6. S.Adelaide P. 0-0 
 7. South.Tigers 0-0 
 8. Sturt S. 0-0 
 9. W.Adelaide B. 0-0 
 10. Woodville W. 0-0 
QBL
 1. Brisbane C. 0-0 
 2. Bundaberg B. 0-0 
 3. Caboolture S. 0-0 
 4. Cairns M. 0-0 
 5. Gladstone P. 0-0 
 6. Gold Coast G. 0-0 
 7. Ipswich F. 0-0 
 8. Mackay M. 0-0 
 9. Maroochydore 0-0 
 10. Northside W. 0-0 
 11. Rockhampton 0-0 
 12. SW Metro P. 0-0 
 13. Toowoomba 0-0 
 14. Townsville H. 0-0 
SEABL-East
 1. Ballarat M. 0-0 
 2. Bendigo B. 0-0 
 3. Brisbane S. 0-0 
 4. Canberra G. 0-0 
 5. Dandenong 0-0 
 6. Kilsyth C. 0-0 
 7. Knox R. 0-0 
SEABL-South
 1. Albury W.B. 0-0 
 2. Frankston B. 0-0 
 3. Geelong S. 0-0 
 4. Hobart C. 0-0 
 5. Mt Gambier 0-0 
 6. Nunawading S. 0-0 
 7. NW Tasmania 0-0 
 8. Sandringham S. 0-0 
WARATAH
 1. Bankstown B. 0-0 
 2. C. Coast C. 0-0 
 3. Canberra N. 0-0 
 4. Hills H. 0-0 
 5. Hornsby S. 0-0 
 6. Illawarra H. 0-0 
 7. Maitland M. 0-0 
 8. Manly Warr. 0-0 
 9. Newcastle H. 0-0 
 10. Norths Bears 0-0 
 11. Parramatta W. 0-0 
 12. Sutherland S. 0-0 
 13. Sydney C. 0-0 


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Kirk PENNEY
  Breakers
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Penney, Breakers20.7 
 2. Ervin, Hawks20.5 
 3. Redhage, Wildcats18.0 
 4. Khazzouh, Sydney K.17.5 
 5. Williams, Tigers17.4 
 6. Clark, Blaze17.2 
 7. Worthington, Blaze16.8 
 8. Ballinger, 36ers16.0 
 9. Wilkinson, Breakers15.4 
 10. Devendorf, Tigers14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 9.9
 1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.9.9 
 2. Davidson, Hawks8.2 
 3. Vukona, Breakers7.8 
 4. Nevill, Tigers7.4 
 5. Brown, Wildcats7.1 
 6. Worthington, Blaze7.0 
 7. Holmes, 36ers7.0 
 8. Crosswhite, Taipa.7.0 
 9. Clark, Blaze6.7 
 10. Burston, Tigers6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Corey WILLIAMS
  Tigers
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Williams, Tigers5.9 
 2. Gibson, Blaze5.4 
 3. Ervin, Hawks4.6 
 4. Carter, 36ers4.5 
 5. Braswell, Breakers4.4 
 6. Saville, Hawks4.3 
 7. Shannon, 36ers4.3 
 8. Ubaka, Taipans4.0 
 9. DeVries, 36ers3.4 
 10. Blalock, Crocodiles3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Martin, Wildcats2.1 
 2. Crawford, Croco.1.5 
 3. Saville, Hawks1.5 
 4. Ellis, Crocodiles1.4 
 5. Martin, Hawks1.3 
 6. Williams, Tigers1.3 
 7. Braswell, Breakers1.3 
 8. Tovey, Wildcats1.3 
 9. Ervin, Hawks1.3 
 10. Shannon, 36ers1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Adam BALLINGER
  36ers
  (205-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Ballinger, 36ers2.1 
 2. Majok, Wildcats2.0 
 3. Khazzouh, Sydney K.1.8 
 4. Clark, Blaze1.3 
 5. Nevill, Tigers1.1 
 6. Worthington, Blaze1.1 
 7. Crosswhite, Taipa.1.0 
 8. Schenscher, Croco.1.0 
 9. Gilder, Sydney K.0.9 
 10. Freeman, Croco.0.9 


Blaze commit to Petrie for three - by Eurobasket News
The Gold Coast Blaze on Wednesday announced the three-year re-signing of key forward Anthony Petrie (203-F/C-83).

Its a huge coup that will see the former West Sydney and Wollongong hard man, who joined the Coast NBL team in 2009, stay in a Blaze singlet through to season 2013-2014.

Remarkably, three weeks from this seasons NBL season playoffs, Petrie is the seventh player already signed for Blaze duty next season.

Blaze Chief Executive Officer Paul Pamenter said the club is rapt to retain Petries services.

He is a magnificent athlete and as our early results indicated, I think we struggled without him for the first half of the season, Pamenter said.

We are obviously focusing on retaining a core group over a long period, and were thrilled to have Peach in Blaze colours for the next three years.

A former Canberra Raiders Rugby League prospect, Petrie brings an imposing physical presence to the Blaze front court.

He said his motivations to stay on the Gold Coast centre on lifestyle, favourable team dynamics and unfinished business.

My family and I are thrilled to stay on the Gold Coast for the next three years, Petrie said.

I love playing under Joey and we have a really good core group here that can now press for championships.

It is an exciting time for both the Blaze and the NBL and I am busting to get back out on the court with the boys, he said.

The deal is awaiting NBL ratification.

Courtesy of NBL (www.nbl.com.au)

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


Juventus and Kaunas enter Challenge Cup Final - by Eurobasket News
Juventus and Kaunas have reached the Challenge Cup Final. They overcame their opponents in the respective semifinal battles tonight.
Juventus faced a 3-point deficit after the starting game against Neptunas. But Robertas Giedraitis team had little problems at home court. Juventus claimed a comprehensive 94:74 victory. Marius Prekevicius (196-F-84, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Florida) dropped 19 points to pace the winners. Juventus exploded with 59 points in the first half building a 19-point lead. Neptunas could not recover after the main break and faced the hosts rallying to the victory. Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-C-89, agency: Interperformances) netted 13 points and collected 8 rebounds, while Gediminas Maceina (188-G-84) added 12 points in the win. Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83, college: ODU) tallied 18 points, 5 boards and 5 assists for Neptunas. Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) had 16 points in the loss.
Kaunas entered the second game against Techasas with a four-point deficit to overcome. The situation got even worse in the first half. Techasas started the game aggressively and recorded a 10-point halftime advantage. Kaunas turned things around in the second half. The hosts erupted for 31 points in the third term to turn the deficit into a 7-point lead. They sealed the victory in the fourth quarter and reached Final. Arunas Vasiliauskas (201-F-85) tallied 22 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists for Kaunas. Povilas Cukinas (210-C-83) provided 23 points and 10 boards in the victory. Gintaras Leonavicius (194-G-83, agency: Players Group) and Vaidotas Volkus (203-F-85, college: Redlands CC) delivered 20 points each for Techasas. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-G-87) chipped in 12 points in defeat.


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Pierce CALDWELL
  Liepaja
  (191-G-88)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Caldwell, Liepaja19.1 
 2. Bergmanis, Zemgale19.0 
 3. Jurevicus, Liepaja19.0 
 4. Osby, TT.18.9 
 5. Vasylius, Neptunas16.9 
 6. Talts, TU/Rock15.5 
 7. Juskevicius, Rudupis15.5 
 8. Parakhouski, VEF R.15.3 
 9. Dimsa, Nevezis14.9 
 10. Krumins, Zemgale14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Bambale OSBY
  TTU/Kalev
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Osby, TT.11.7 
 2. Kieza, Juventus9.8 
 3. Eziukwu, TU/Rock8.7 
 4. Cipruss, Valmiera8.3 
 5. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.8.0 
 6. Matulis, Sakalai8.0 
 7. Dumbliauskas, Alytus A.7.9 
 8. Rozitis, Zemgale7.5 
 9. Cepukaitis, Juven.7.4 
 10. Sarakauskas, Siauliai7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Evaldas DAINYS
  Rudupis
  (180-G-82)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Dainys, Rudupis5.4 
 2. Ezerskis, Techasas5.1 
 3. Broadus, Siauliai5.0 
 4. Kriisa, TT.4.9 
 5. Varanauskas, Sakal.4.9 
 6. Alijevas, Nevezis4.6 
 7. Rinkevicius, Techasas4.5 
 8. Gaidamaviciu., Norrko.4.3 
 9. Viskontas, Perlas4.3 
 10. Vasiliauskas, Aiscai K.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Gintaras LEONAVICIUS
  Techasas
  (194-G-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Leonavicius, Techa.2.3 
 2. Broadus, Siauliai2.3 
 3. Dainys, Rudupis1.9 
 4. Saage, Rakvere1.9 
 5. Chunda, Barsy A.1.9 
 6. Vasylius, Neptunas1.9 
 7. Dorbek, Kalev/Cr.1.9 
 8. Leppik, TU/Rock1.7 
 9. Anderson, Ventspils1.7 
 10. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock2.2 
 2. Rozitis, Zemgale1.9 
 3. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.9 
 4. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.6 
 5. Parakhouski, VEF R.1.4 
 6. Silinskis, Techasas1.4 
 7. Cresnar, Nevezis1.3 
 8. Osby, TT.1.2 
 9. Hanke, Norrkoping1.2 
 10. Cain, VEF Riga1.1 


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


D1 Round 24: Hercegovac defeats leader Bosna ASA BHT - by Eurobasket News
There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in D1.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Bosna ASA BHT (17-5) in Bileca on Tuesday night. Visitors were defeated by eighth ranked Hercegovac (12-10) 81-76. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 21-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for Montenegrin swingman Goran Gajovic (199-G/F-88) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. Montenegrin center Andrija Pejovic (205-83) contributed with 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Dzenan Rahimic (204-74) replied with 17 points and 8 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for Bosna ASA BHT. Bosna ASA BHT's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Hercegovac moved-up to seventh place. Bosna ASA BHT at the other side still keeps top position with five games lost. Hercegovac are looking forward to face higher ranked Borac Nektar (#3) in Banja Luka in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Bosna ASA BHT will play at home against Slavija in Sarajevo and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Borac Nektar (15-7) against fourth ranked Mladost (15-7) on Wednesday night. Visiting Borac Nektar was defeated by Mladost in Mrkonjic Grad 87-72. Mladost moved-up to second place, which they share with Borac Nektar and Capljina. Mladost will play against Sloboda Dita (#5) in Tuzla in the next round. Borac Nektar will play at home against Hercegovac in Bileca and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Trebinje was also quite interesting. Sixth ranked Sloboda Dita (13-9) played at the court of 8th ranked SL IAT Leotar (12-11). Sloboda Dita managed to secure a 7-point victory 73-66 on Wednesday. Sloboda Dita moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Zrinjski HT. Loser SL IAT Leotar keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Sloboda Dita will meet at home league's second-placed Mladost in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. SL IAT Leotar will have a break next round.
The game between third ranked Capljina Lasta (15-7) and 10th ranked Kakanj (7-15) in Capljina ended with biggest points difference. Capljina Lasta outscored guests from Kakanj 109-68. The best player for the winners was Mladen Gligora who scored 23 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Capljina Lasta moved-up to second place, which they share with Borac Nektar and Mladost. Newly promoted Kakanj dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost. Capljina Lasta's next round opponent will be Varda HE (#10) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Kakanj will play against Zrinjski HT in Mostar.

In the last two games of round 24 Celik was beaten by Zrinjski HT on the road 83-71.

Mladost - Borac Nektar 87-72

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Borac Nektar (15-7) against fourth ranked Mladost (15-7) on Wednesday night. Visiting Borac Nektar was defeated by Mladost in Mrkonjic Grad 87-72. Mladost moved-up to second place, which they share with Borac Nektar and Capljina. Mladost will play against Sloboda Dita (#5) in Tuzla in the next round. Borac Nektar will play at home against Hercegovac in Bileca and hopes to get back on the winning track.
gschID: 113559


SL IAT Leotar - Sloboda Dita 66-73

The game in Trebinje was also quite interesting. Sixth ranked Sloboda Dita (13-9) played at the court of 8th ranked SL IAT Leotar (12-11). Sloboda Dita managed to secure a 7-point victory 73-66 on Wednesday. Sloboda Dita moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Zrinjski HT. Loser SL IAT Leotar keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Sloboda Dita will meet at home league's second-placed Mladost in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. SL IAT Leotar will have a break next round.
gschID: 113560


Zrinjski HT - Celik 83-71

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Zrinjski HT (13-9) beat 9th ranked Celik (9-14) in Mostar 83-71. Zrinjski HT have an impressive five-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Sloboda Dita. Celik at the other side keeps the ninth position with 14 games lost. Zrinjski HT's next round opponent will be Kakanj (#11) on the road where they are favorite. Celik will play against Brotnjo in Citluk.
gschID: 113555


Capljina - Kakanj 109-68

The game between third ranked Capljina Lasta (15-7) and 10th ranked Kakanj (7-15) in Capljina ended with biggest points difference. Capljina Lasta outscored guests from Kakanj 109-68. The game without a history. Capljina Lasta led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Kakanj's 42. 24 personal fouls committed by Kakanj helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Croatian power forward Mladen Gligora (204-82, agency: Court Side) who scored 23 points. Naturalized Croatian power forward Jozo Brkic (211-86) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was power forward Ashar Dedic (200-86) who recorded 11 points and guard Abdurahman Kahrimanovic (197-75, agency: Court Side) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Capljina Lasta moved-up to second place, which they share with Borac Nektar and Mladost. Newly promoted Kakanj dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost. Capljina Lasta's next round opponent will be Varda HE (#10) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Kakanj will play against Zrinjski HT in Mostar.
Top scorers:
Kakanj: N.Begovac 12+1reb, K.Abdurahman 11+5reb+1ast, A.Dedic 11+3reb+3ast, A.Suljagic 10+4reb+1ast, A.Kahrimanovic 9, E.Suljic 7
Capljina: M.Gligora 23+1reb+1ast, J.Zdravkovic 18+3ast, J.Brkic 17+5reb+1ast, K.Rimac 15+2reb+1ast, M.Galic 14+3reb+2ast, S.Fekete 9+5reb+5ast
gschID: 113556


Hercegovac - Bosna 81-76

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Bosna ASA BHT (17-5) in Bileca on Tuesday night. Visitors were defeated by eighth ranked Hercegovac (12-10) 81-76. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 21-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for Montenegrin swingman Goran Gajovic (199-88) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. Montenegrin center Andrija Pejovic (205-83) contributed with 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Five Hercegovac players scored in double figures. Naturalized Croatian power forward Dzenan Rahimic (204-74) replied with 17 points and 8 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and guard Muhamed Pasalic (192-87) added 14 points and 9 assists in the effort for Bosna ASA BHT. Bosna ASA BHT's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Hercegovac moved-up to seventh place. Bosna ASA BHT at the other side still keeps top position with five games lost. Hercegovac are looking forward to face higher ranked Borac Nektar (#3) in Banja Luka in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Bosna ASA BHT will play at home against Slavija in Sarajevo and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Bosna: D.Rahimic 17+8reb+3ast, M.Pasalic 14+9ast, F.Kruslin 12+3reb+1ast, D.Hodzic 9+3reb+2ast, B.Durasovic 8+4reb+3ast, A.Damjanovic 7+5reb
Hercegovac: G.Gajovic 18+12reb+1ast, M.Vukovic 18, N.Lalic 14+1reb+9ast, A.Pejovic 13+9reb+3ast, B.Lalovic 12+5reb+1ast, S.Savic 5+1reb
gschID: 113558

Slavija - Varda HE 0-20

*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


PF Gerson Junior will be in the NJCAA National Tournament - by Paulo Freire
Another Brazilian who is in the U.S., had celebrate a title in the last days. The powerforward Gerson Junior (207-C-91) of 2.07 heigh, started well in his first year in the land of Uncle Sam.

Playing for College of Southern Idaho his team beat the Salt Lake CC 94-86 becoming the Region 18 Champion. Gerson helped his team with five points and two rebounds in 18 minutes on the court. With this victory the team traveled to Arizona, where they won the game against Cochise College by 94-75, Gerson had a great game against Cochise, droping 21 points, 7 rebounds and 3 blocks in just 16 minutes. With that result they advance to the NJCAA National Tournament which will be in Kansas in the coming days.

CSI will open the national tournament Wednesday, March 16th against Redlands CC at noon MST. If the Eagles win, they would play the winner of Tallahassee CC and Cape Fear on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. MST.

Fab Melo started to get solid - by Paulo Freire
The Brazilian Fabricio de Melo (212-C-90) who is in his first college season, is not having an easy life. The young center who was havly recruited by powerful Syracuse generated big expectations among fans and especially by the american media who have placed him as one of the next brazilians in the NBA in the next years.

In fact, Fab Melo is a great promise, but the transition from high school to college is not easy for most of the freshmans , especially when you're playing against the top teams in the USA College.

Melo suffered earlier this season with the hard criticism that he would not exactly be everything that was said before his arriving in Syracuse. But on this Thursday (10-03), the Brazilian played in Madison Square Garden, he had a solid performance (22 minutes on court, 12 points, 100% in shooting, 01 rebound and 4 assist) against St. John's in the BIG EAST Tournament quarterfinals.

SU overcame a 37-32 halftime deficit with a 47-36 scoring advantage in the second half to advance to the BIG EAST semifinals on Friday, March 11 at 7 p.m. SU will face No. 9 seed Connecticut, who knocked off top-seeded Pittsburgh earlier today.




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


Harker named Energy coach - by Eurobasket News
Skouson Harker (6'9''-F-77, college: Oregon) has been benched indefinitely, and he couldnt be happier.

The former Edmonton Energy player is moving from the court to the sidelines, where he will be the squads new head coach for the upcoming season, taking over the role held by his former coach, Paul Sir.

'After our last game last year, coach Paul Sir mentioned that we won't remember the wins and we wont remember the losses, but we will remember the relationships. So that's kind of why Im here, the relationships that weve formed, they've meant a lot to me.'

Harker, 34, even passed up an offer to play in Australia two weeks ago to focus on his coaching career, which began in 2007 as a player/coach in the British Basketball League.

The culture that has been created in Edmonton is a winning culture: 31-10 over the last two years, Harker said.

As good as the Energys track record has been in the IBL, Skousons biggest challenge likely wont be what goes on in the games, rather how many seats are filled to watch them at home.

Its a challenge the players gladly accept, as well, knowing they will be required to put an exciting product on the floor.

Im really hoping that the local people of Edmonton will come out and support this team. I really dont see why we shouldnt have a sell-out house every game, said Energy player and local product J.R. Patrick. We always go toward every other local team, every other semi-pro team from the Eskimos to the Drillers to the Capitals, so I really dont see why our basketball team here in Edmonton wouldnt flourish. Basketball is the biggest its ever been in Canada. Im really hoping that the fan base will be as great as its ever been.

Courtesy of www.edmontonsun.com

Patrick returns for Energy - by Eurobasket News
Patrick J.R. (6'4''-G-81, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Santa Clara) used to think people from China were all short.

Then he stepped onto one of their basketball courts.

I saw a guy there that was seven-foot-seven when I was down there. Unbelievable, said the six-foot-four, 212-pound alumni of Eastglen high school. Everyone says that a lot of Chinese people are really short. The average people, yes, but as far as the athletes, no.

After spending last season playing halfway around the world, the IBL all-star has returned to the Edmonton Energy, signing on alongside Blain LaBranch and self-proclaimed northside street legend Andrew Parker on Thursday.

And Patrick said hes all the better for his travels.

It was awesome, China was great, said Patrick, who was one of 250 players trying out at a draft camp, where he ended up being the only Canadian among the top-40 North Americans.

He was picked 14th in the China-NBL draft by Henan Jiyuan Steel and Iron, in the Hunan province.

I was extremely happy for that, had a great camp, said Patrick. It was a great experience.

One that went beyond basketball.

Food, culture shock, some of the most loyal people Ive ever met my entire life, Patrick said. They would do anything for you.

But there is one crew that holds Patricks loyalty above all else: his family back home in Edmonton.

The main thing is I have my family. I have my daughter who was just born, shes six months (old) next month, and my son and my girlfriend, Patrick said. Its good just to be at home right now.

And the Edmonton Energys back again. Im so excited to be able to play in front of family and friends again.

And the Energy is happy to have him back, too. Although, they did all right in his absence last season, making playoffs for the second year in a row before financial restrictions cut their post-season short before it could even begin.

I was talking to Andrew back and forth when I was in China, Patrick said. He was letting me know how the team was doing and how everything was going. It was good to hear that even though I had left, they were still able to pick up and they didnt miss a beat.

Now that hes back, the Energy hope to beat any opponent that gets in their way. But its not the same squad Patrick left, considering former head coach Paul Sir resigned after having his team pulled from playoffs last season.

Coach Paul Sir, he was a great guy, Patrick said. I respect him as a man, I respect him as a head coach. Personally, he has been one of the most influential people Ive ever met as far as my basketball career goes. I respect him deeply.

Instead, Patrick will play for former Energy forward Skouson Harker, who was named the teams new head coach Thursday.

I was supposed to play with him about five years ago when he was coaching in England, said Patrick. Im really excited to see how that works now, just because he has the basketball background and the knowledge.

As far as his skill level and his coaching ability, he is definitely the right man for the job.

Courtesy of www.edmontonsun.com

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


CBA Round 34: Guandong Tigers beat DongGuan Leopards in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in DongGuan. Third ranked Guandong Tigers faced their biggest opponent DongGuan Leopards. Guests from Dongguan (25-7) defeated host DongGuan Leopards (25-7) 124-108. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of DongGuan Leopards. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Guandong Tigers's pressure prevailed and they won that period 37-23 extending their advantage to 16 points. Guandong Tigers outrebounded DongGuan Leopards 57-45 including 27 on the offensive glass. 36 personal fouls committed by DongGuan Leopards helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) fired a double-double by scoring 28 points, 14 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals for the winners. International swingman ShiPeng Wang (197-83) chipped in 31 points and 5 rebounds. Nigerian guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) produced 30 points and 6 rebounds for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guandong Tigers have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with DongGuan. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Leader Xinjiang delivered the 31th victory. This time they beat 13th ranked Jilin Tigers (12-20) 112-102 in Urumqi. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Jilin Tigers. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 51 points (!!!), 10 assists and 4 steals. QingPeng Zhang contributed with 22 points for the winners. Xinjiang Flying Tige's coach XingQuan Jiang allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American swingman Tim Pickett (193-81, college: Florida St.) replied with 48 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds (made all of his eleven free throws !!!) for Jilin Tigers. Xinjiang Flying Tige (31-1) have an impressive 14-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Jilin Tigers at the other side dropped to the twelfth place with 20 games lost. They share the position with Shanghai. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Seventeenth-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (5-27) made lots of trouble for eighth ranked Bayi Fubang (17-15) in Tianjin on Friday. The visitors from Ningbo managed to secure only three-point victory 106-103. However their fans expected much easier game. ZhiZhi Wang scored 31 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Bayi Fubang's coach Chang Bin Adijan used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side Vernon Hamilton responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists and 8 steals. Bayi Fubang moved-up to seventh place. TianJin Rongcheng lost eighth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 27 lost games. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Foshan, where higher ranked Jiangsu Dragons (19-12) lost to fourteenth ranked Foshan (11-21) in a road game 83-94. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Jiangsu Dragons. Olumide Oyedeji notched a double-double by scoring 27 points and 19 rebounds to lead the effort. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Foshan maintains fourteenth position with 11-21 record. Jiangsu Dragons at the other side keep the fourth place with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Jinjiang. Local Fujian SBS XunXin (8-24) was outscored by fifth ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (19-13) 123-94 on Friday night. Marcus Williams fired a triple-double by scoring 15 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists for the winners. Zhejiang Cyclones' coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Zhejiang Cyclones have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 19-13 record. Loser Fujian SBS XunXin keeps the sixteenth place with 24 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

Rest of the games of round 34 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Qingdao DS were crushed by Zhejiang G.L. in Hangzhou 123-102. Shandong was beaten by Liaoning at home 91-98. Shanxi Zh. won against Shanghai on the opponent's court 111-102.

Fujian - Zhejiang C. 94-123

The game with biggest result difference took place in Jinjiang. Local Fujian SBS XunXin (8-24) was outscored by fifth ranked Zhejiang Cyclones (19-13) 123-94 on Friday night. The game without a history. Zhejiang Cyclones led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Zhejiang Cyclones outrebounded Fujian SBS XunXin 52-32 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Fujian SBS XunXin's players. American forward Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) fired a triple-double by scoring 15 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists for the winners. Forward Fei Cao (194-91) chipped in 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Zhejiang Cyclones' coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Center Hang Li (204-86) produced a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds and forward TaiLong Zhao (193-90) added 18 points respectively for lost side. Five Zhejiang Cyclones and four Fujian SBS XunXin players scored in double figures. Zhejiang Cyclones have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 19-13 record. Loser Fujian SBS XunXin keeps the sixteenth place with 24 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Fujian: L.Hang 24+10reb+1ast, Z.TaiLong 18+4reb+1ast, J.Dwayne 12+8reb, Y.GengLin 12+3reb+2ast, B.ZhiChao 9+1reb, X.Yacai 7+2reb+1ast
Zhejiang C.: C.Fei 21+5reb+5ast, D.Jinhui 20+11reb, B.Josh 20+6reb+1ast, W.Marcus 15+14reb+12ast, J.Peng 11+3reb+1ast, S.Xiaolong 10+1reb+1ast
gschID: 118593


Zhejiang G.L. - Qingdao DS 123-102

There was no surprise in Hangzhou where 15th ranked Qingdao Double Star (10-22) was crushed by sixth ranked Zhejiang Guangsha Lions (18-14) 123-102 on Friday. The game without a history. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 60.7 percent from the field. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Qingdao Double Star's players. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) fired a double-double by scoring 29 points, 18 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners (made all of his seven free throws). Taiwanese swingman Chih-Chieh Lin (192-82) chipped in 31 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Zhejiang Guangsha Lions players scored in double figures. Coach Fei Wang's team controlled all game and the coach could let to play 10 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) produced 42 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds and Jordanian center Zaid Al-Khas (206-76, college: Gannon) added 15 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions maintains sixth position with 18-14 record. Qingdao Double Star lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth place with 22 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Qingdao DS: G.Charles 42+9reb+3ast, C.Liang 15+5reb, A.Zaid 15+7reb+1ast, L.XiangTao 10+2reb, B.Dee 9+4reb+1ast, L.Guang 6+5reb+3ast
Zhejiang G.L.: L.Chih-Chieh 31+7reb+4ast, R.Peter John 29+18reb+4ast, K.Tre 20+8ast, W.Bo 12+1reb+7ast, D.Li 11+6reb+1ast, Z.Wei 10+6reb+2ast
gschID: 118594


Foshan - Jiangsu 94-83

We should mention about the upset which took place in Foshan, where higher ranked Jiangsu Dragons (19-12) lost to fourteenth ranked Foshan (11-21) in a road game 83-94. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Jiangsu Dragons. The game was mostly controlled by Foshan. Jiangsu Dragons was better in fourth quarter 31-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Foshan dominated down low during the game scoring 74 of its points in the paint compared to Jiangsu Dragons' 54. Foshan forced 19 Jiangsu Dragons turnovers. Nigerian-British power forward Olumide Oyedeji (208-81) notched a double-double by scoring 27 points and 19 rebounds to lead the effort and guard Ben He (202-89) supported him with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Four Foshan players scored in double figures. Even 17 points and 6 rebounds by swingman Nan Wu (196-89) did not help to save the game for Jiangsu Dragons. French power forward Jerome Moiso (208-78, college: UCLA) added 15 points for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Foshan maintains fourteenth position with 11-21 record. Jiangsu Dragons at the other side keep the fourth place with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Jiangsu: W.Nan 17+6reb+1ast, M.Jerome 15+1reb+2ast, Z.Caibao 11+5reb+1ast, Y.Li 8+2reb, M.Da 8+2reb+1ast, Y.Li 6+5reb+1ast
Foshan: O.Olumide 27+19reb+3ast, Z.Xiaowei 18+1ast, H.Ben 13+6reb+2ast, Z.Zhun 12+4reb+2ast, M.Stephon 7+2reb+7ast, Z.Nan 7+6reb+2ast
gschID: 118592


Shandong - Liaoning 91-98

There was a small surprise in Jinan where eleventh ranked Liaoning Hunters (14-18) defeated 9th ranked Shandong Bulls (14-18) 98-91 on Friday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Shandong Bulls won third quarter 30-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Liaoning Hunters looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Center Dejun Han (215-89) fired a double-double by scoring 31 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. International guard Ailun Guo (193-93) chipped in 17 points and 9 assists. Center HanLin Tao (206-91) produced 32 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) and forward JingYu Li (198-91) added 21 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Liaoning Hunters moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Shandong. Shandong Bulls lost fourth consecutive game. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Shandong: T.HanLin 32+6reb+2ast, L.JingYu 21+2reb+4ast, W.Ke 13+5reb+1ast, L.JiuLong 12+5reb+4ast, J.Cheng 5+2reb+1ast, Z.Jinshuai 3+4reb+1ast
Liaoning: H.Dejun 31+13reb+1ast, G.Ailun 17+3reb+9ast, L.Xiaoxu 12+7reb, B.Qiang 12+3reb+7ast, M.Anthony 11+3reb, M.Myles 8+6reb+2ast
gschID: 118589


DongGuan - Guandong 108-124

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in DongGuan. Third ranked Guandong Tigers faced their biggest opponent DongGuan Leopards. Guests from Dongguan (25-7) defeated host DongGuan Leopards (25-7) 124-108. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of DongGuan Leopards. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Guandong Tigers's pressure prevailed and they won that period 37-23 extending their advantage to 16 points. Guandong Tigers outrebounded DongGuan Leopards 57-45 including 27 on the offensive glass. 36 personal fouls committed by DongGuan Leopards helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Lester Hudson (191-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) fired a double-double by scoring 28 points, 14 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals for the winners. International swingman ShiPeng Wang (197-83) chipped in 31 points and 5 rebounds. Nigerian guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) produced 30 points and 6 rebounds and center TongLin Sun (208-92) added 14 points and 11 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guandong Tigers have an impressive ten-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with DongGuan. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
DongGuan: A.Josh-Emmanuel 30+6reb+1ast, P.Duo 16+4reb+1ast, W.Horace 14+3reb+3ast, S.TongLin 14+11reb+1ast, Q.Biao 11+1reb+2ast, Z.Kai 8+9reb+2ast
Guandong: W.ShiPeng 31+5reb+1ast, H.Lester 28+14reb+8ast, W.Zheng 16+9reb, S.Wei 12+8reb+1ast, Z.Peng 11+4reb+1ast, H.Dong 9+11reb+4ast
gschID: 118590


Xinjiang - Jilin 112-102

Leader Xinjiang Flying Tige delivered the 31th victory. This time they beat 13th ranked Jilin Tigers (12-20) 112-102 in Urumqi. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Jilin Tigers. It looked good early as Jilin Tigers took an 9-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Xinjiang Flying Tige took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 10 points. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Quincy Douby (191-84, college: Rutgers) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 51 points (!!!), 10 assists and 4 steals. International guard QingPeng Zhang (189-81) contributed with 22 points for the winners. Xinjiang Flying Tige's coach XingQuan Jiang allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American swingman Tim Pickett (193-81, college: Florida St.) replied with 48 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds (made all of his eleven free throws !!!) and forward Wei Liu (205-85) added 19 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Jilin Tigers. Four Jilin Tigers players scored in double figures. Xinjiang Flying Tige (31-1) have an impressive 14-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Jilin Tigers at the other side dropped to the twelfth place with 20 games lost. They share the position with Shanghai. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Jilin: P.Tim 48+9reb+2ast, L.Wei 19+5reb+3ast, L.Tao 11+2reb+2ast, Y.Shulong 11+4reb+6ast, W.Jameel 9+6reb+2ast, Z.Cheng 4+2reb+2ast
Xinjiang: D.Quincy 51+4reb+10ast, Z.QingPeng 22+2reb+1ast, S.James 16+3reb+2ast, C.Tal 5+3reb, M.Bateer 5+8reb+4ast, M.Lati 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 118591


Shanghai - Shanxi Zh. 102-111

Rather expected game when 12th ranked Shanghai Sharks (12-20) were defeated at home by tenth ranked Shanxi Zhongyu (15-17) 111-102 on Friday. Shanghai Sharks trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 27-24 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 102-111 at the end of the game. Shanxi Zhongyu made 26-of-33 free shots (78.8 percent) during the game. Shanghai Sharks were plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Leon Rodgers (199-80, college: N.Illinois) fired 31 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. The other American import forward Alexander Johnson (208-83, college: Florida St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. Four Shanxi Zhongyu players scored in double figures. American guard John Lucas (180-82, college: Oklahoma St.) produced 39 points (!!!) and 6 rebounds (made all of his twelve free throws !!!) and forward Ziqui Liu (195-82) added 17 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Shanghai Sharks' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Shanxi Zhongyu moved-up to ninth place. Shanghai Sharks lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the twelfth position with 20 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Shanghai: L.John 39+6reb+2ast, Z.ZhaoXu 19+8reb+2ast, L.Ziqui 17+8reb+5ast, J.Xiang 8+5reb, G.Yang 7+1ast, W.Ligang 4+4reb+1ast
Shanxi Zh.: R.Leon 31+9reb+1ast, J.Alexander 25+10reb+2ast, D.JiangPeng 19+2reb, P.Jiang 10+4reb+1ast, D.Osama 9+6reb+7ast, Z.XueWen 9+3reb
gschID: 118587


TianJin R. - Bayi 103-106

Seventeenth-ranked TianJin Rongcheng (5-27) made lots of trouble for eighth ranked Bayi Fubang (17-15) in Tianjin on Friday. The visitors from Ningbo managed to secure only three-point victory 106-103. However their fans expected much easier game. TianJin Rongcheng trailed by 11 points at halftime and as many as 13 after three quarters before a 30-20 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 103-106 at the end of the game. Bayi Fubang outrebounded TianJin Rongcheng 44-33 including 32 on the defensive glass. The former international center ZhiZhi Wang (214-79) scored 31 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international center Ke Mo (210-82) chipped in 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Bayi Fubang's coach Chang Bin Adijan used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American guard Vernon Hamilton (183-84, college: Clemson) responded with a double-double by scoring 27 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists and 8 steals and forward GuiJun Xu (202-80) scored 25 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Bayi Fubang moved-up to seventh place. TianJin Rongcheng lost eighth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 27 lost games. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
TianJin R.: H.Vernon 27+10reb+8ast, X.GuiJun 25+5reb+1ast, Z.Nan 19+2reb+4ast, Z.Ji 11+7reb, X.Lei 9+1reb+1ast, W.Hao 6+2reb
Bayi: W.ZhiZhi 31+8reb+3ast, M.Ke 17+8reb+4ast, W.Lei 16+9reb+3ast, D.Lehei 13+4reb+1ast, X.ZhongHao 10+4reb+1ast, H.Shuo 9+6reb+3ast
gschID: 118588




Guangdong Seizes Second-Place from Dongguan - by Arthur Volbert
Dongguan is not the same team without the injured Jackson Vroman. His replacement, a 168 cm guard named Horace Wormely, is just not the same as the 208 cm inside presence. So it is no surprise that Guangdong defeated Dongguan 124-108 and gained a tie for second place in the CBA and was seeded second in the playoffs because of tiebreakers as the CBA concluded its regular season.

Guangdong was without its import big man, Marcus Haislip, but seven-footers Su Wei and Wang Zheng, along with 207 cm Dong Hanlin filled the void. Wang had 16 points and 9 rebounds in 22 minutes before fouling out. Su had 12 points and 8 rebounds in 25 minutes. Dong had 9 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Import guard Hudson Lester (191-G-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) led Guangdong with 28 points, 14 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. Wang Shipeng had 31 points and 5 rebounds. Zhou Peng scored 11. Josh Akognon had 30 points and 6 rebounds for Dongguan. Meng Duo scored 16. Wormely had 14 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Sun Tonglin, listed as born in December 1992, may one day be an NBA prospect. But with 14 points and 11 rebounds, today he could not match up tp Guangdong's more mature inside players. 7-3 Sun Zhe, born in 1990, could only manage 4 points and 3 rebounds in 13 minutes. 211 cm Zhang Kai had 8 points and 9 rebounds before fouling out in 26 minutes. Qiu Biao scored 11. Gu Quan, a 203 cm forward in the class of 1992, had 8 points and 6 rebounds.

Quincy Douby had 51 points and 10 assists as Xinjiang kept to its winning ways with a 112-102 triumph over Jilin. Zhang Qingpeng scored 22 and James Singleton scored 16. Tim Pickett had 48 points and 9 rebounds for Jilin. Liu Wei had 19 points and 5 rebounds. Yu Shulong had 11 points and 6 assists. Li Tao scored 11. Jameel Watkins had 9 points and 6 rebounds.

7-1 300 Han Dejun, class of 1989, had 31 points on 14 of 19 shooting, 13 rebounds and 3 blocks as Liaoning defeated Shandong 98-91. But Han may be defensively challenged as the opposing center, Tao Hanlin, scored 32 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Guo Ailun had 17 points and 9 assists for Liaoning and, class of 1993, looks more and more like a future NBA prospect. Li Xiaoxu had 12 points and 7 rebounds while Bian Qiang had 12 points and 7 assists. Myles McKay had 12 points and 6 rebounds while Anthony Myles had 11 points and 3 rebounds. Li Jingyu had 21 points for Shandong. Wu Ke had 13 points and 5 rebounds while Liu Jiulong had 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Myron Allen had 2 points and 8 assists.

Foshan beat Jiangsu 94-83. Olumide Oyedeji had 27 points and 19 rebounds. Zhang Xiaowei had 18 points and 7 steals. He Ben had 13 points and 6 rebounds. Zheng Zhun had 12 points and 4 rebounds. Stephon Marbury had 7 points and 7 assists but Foshan won with Marbury dishing to his teammates while losing the last game where he scored over 50. Wu Nan scored 17 for Jiangsu. Jerome Moiso scored 15. Zhang Caibo had 11 points and 5 rebounds. Yi Li and Meng Da each scored 8. Antoine Wright and Hu Xuefeng did not play.

Shanxi Zhongyu defeated Shanghai 111-102. Leon Rogers had 31 points and 9 rebounds. Alexander Johnson had 25 points and 10 rebounds. Duang Jiangpeng scored 19 and Pan Jiang had 10. Osama Daghlas had 9 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. Zhang Xuewen also scored 9. John Lucas had 39 points and 6 rebounds for Shanghai. Zhang Zhaoxu had 19 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks and one can hope that next season he can give this type of performance more consistently. Liu Ziqui had 17 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Ji Xiang had 8 points and 5 rebounds in 14 minutes in the best performance of the year for this disappointment from the University of Hawaii.

Wang Zhizhi had 31 points and 8 rebounds as Bayi edged Tianjin 106-103. Mo Ke had 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Wang Lei had 16 points and 9 rebounds. Delehei had 13 points and 4 rebounds. Xu Guozhong had 10 points and 4 rebounds. Han Shuo had 9 points and 6 rebounds. Vernon Hamilton had 27 points, 10 rebounds, 8 assists, 8 steals and 8 turnovers for Tianjin. Xu Guijun had 25 points and 5 rebounds. Zhang Nan had 19 points and 4 assists. Zhang Ji had 11 points and 7 rebounds while Xu Lei scored 9.

Cao Fei had 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists as Zhejiang destroyed Fujian 123-94. Ding Jinhui had 20 points and 11 rebounds. Josh Boone had 20 points and 6 rebounds. Marcus Williams had 15 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists. Ju Peng scored 11 and Sui Xiaolong scored 10. Zhang Dayu and Zhang Chunjun each had 8 points and 4 rebounds. Li Hang had 24 points and 10 rebounds for Fujian. Zhao Tailong scored 18. Dwayne Jones had 12 points and 8 rebounds. Yang Genglin had 12 points and 3 rebounds.

Lin Chih-Chieh had 31 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists as the Zhejiang Lions defeated Qingdao 123-102. Peter John Ramos had 29 points and 18 rebounds. Walker Russell had 20 points and 8 assists. Wang Bo had 12 points and 7 assists. Deng Li had 11 points and 6 rebounds. Zhang Wei had 10 points and 6 rebounds. Charles Gaines had 41 points and 9 rebounds for Qingdao. Zaid Al-Kas had 15 points and 7 rebounds. Cai Liang had 15 points and 5 rebounds. Dee Brown had 9 points and 4 rebounds.


Playoff Matchups Set - by Arthur Volbert
The first round of the CBA playoff will begin Wednesday March 23. First-place Xinjiang will face eight-place Beijing, second-place Guangdong will face seventh-place Bayi, third-place Dongguan will face the sixth-place Zhejiang Lions and fourth-place Jiangsu will face the fifth-place Zhejiang Flaming Bulls.

The first round will be best of five with the higher seeded team playing games 2, 3 and 5 at home and the lower seed being at home for games 1 and 4.



Standings - CBA
CBA Standings
 1. Xinjiang 31-1 
 2. Guandong 25-7 
 3. DongGuan 25-7 
 4. Jiangsu 19-12 
 5. Zhejiang C. 19-13 
 6. Zhejiang G.L. 18-14 
 7. Bayi 17-15 
 8. Beijing 16-15 
 9. Shanxi Zh. 15-17 
 10. Liaoning 14-18 
 11. Shandong 14-18 
 12. Shanghai 12-20 
 13. Jilin 12-20 
 14. Foshan 11-21 
 15. Qingdao DS 10-22 
 16. Fujian 8-24 
 17. TianJin R. 5-27 


Stats Leaders - CBA
Points Per Game
 Charles GAINES
  Qingdao DS
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 33.7
 1. Gaines, Qingdao DS33.7 
 2. Douby, Xinjiang30.8 
 3. Morris, Beijing30.8 
 4. Williams, Zhejiang C.29.8 
 5. Akognon, DongGuan28.2 
 6. Emmett, Fujian28.0 
 7. Rodgers, Shanxi Zh.27.4 
 8. Pickett, Jilin27.1 
 9. Hamilton, TianJ.26.8 
 10. Marbury, Foshan25.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwayne JONES
  Fujian
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 15.8
 1. Jones, Fujian15.8 
 2. Harris, Shanghai14.7 
 3. Benson, TianJin R.14.6 
 4. Ramos, Zhejiang.14.2 
 5. Gaines, Qingdao DS13.5 
 6. Watkins, Jilin13.3 
 7. Oyedeji, Foshan13.2 
 8. Morris, Beijing12.2 
 9. Moiso, Jiangsu11.5 
 10. Abbaas, Beijing11.3 
Assists Per Game
 Osama DAGHLAS
  Shanxi Zh.
  (199-G-79)
  Avg: 9.1
 1. Daghlas, Shanxi Zh.9.1 
 2. Williams, Zhejiang C.5.7 
 3. Marbury, Foshan5.7 
 4. Lu, Fujian5.6 
 5. LiuWei, Shanghai5.3 
 6. Hu, Jiangsu5.3 
 7. Hamilton, TianJ.4.9 
 8. Allen, Shandong4.9 
 9. Vroman, DongGuan4.9 
 10. Douby, Xinjiang4.8 
Steals Per Game
 XueFeng HU
  Jiangsu
  (185-G-80)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Hu, Jiangsu4.1 
 2. Hamilton, TianJ.3.8 
 3. Douby, Xinjiang3.2 
 4. Hudson, Guandong2.9 
 5. Vroman, DongGuan2.8 
 6. Gaines, Qingdao DS2.5 
 7. Williams, Zhejiang C.2.5 
 8. Emmett, Fujian2.3 
 9. Zhong, Jilin2.3 
 10. Pickett, Jilin2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Herve LAMIZANA
  TianJin R.
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Lamizana, TianJ.3.6 
 2. Haislip, Guandong1.9 
 3. Watkins, Jilin1.9 
 4. Boone, Zhejiang C.1.8 
 5. Zhang, Shanghai1.8 
 6. Moiso, Jiangsu1.8 
 7. Vroman, DongGuan1.6 
 8. Jones, Fujian1.6 
 9. Wang, Bayi1.5 
 10. Benson, TianJin R.1.5 


*****************************************************
  COSTA RICA   


Barva defeats Liceo - by Gianni Pascucci
In the last round of 'Copa del Baloncesto Masculino', Ferretera Brenes Barva won the first game of the year with Liceo de Costa Rica, 91-63, renewing its supremacy in Costarican basketball. After a first round ended 16-14 for Barva, the reigning champions enlarged their advantage minute after minute, reaching the 20-plus pints during the last quarter, when all the best players of Liceo were fouled out. Amir Alvarado (198-F-84, college: Marshalltown CC) scored 23 points to lead Barva, Harold Mitchell (200-C-83) added 22 pts, Ivan Jaen (201-C-66) was the best in Liceo with 20.
In another game of the round, ISESA-Grecia prevailed over UISIL Perez Zeledon 92-90 after an OT with Mario Bogantes leading the way in Grecia.

Liceo prevails over Grecia - by Gianni Pascucci
Liceo de Costa Rica 'Express' largely defeated, 96-48, ISESA Grecia, in a game valid for the 6th round of 'Copa del Baloncesto Masculino', despite a good start of the guest team, 10-4 after few minutes. At the end of first quarter the score was yet 22-11 for Liceo, who never looked back, ending the first half 49-20. And at that time tha game had ended. With 24 points, Clifford Smith (193-G-80, college: Barry) was the game MVP. Andres Aiello (G/F-89) assisted him at the winning time hitting lots of baskets from the distance.

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


Apoel lands Lalovic - by Dr. Nasios Orinos
Apoel announced signing of Bosnian Boris Lalovic. Boris is coming from Hersecovac, where he added 19.8 points per game. In his last game against Bosna, Boris added 12 pts and grabbed 5 rebounds.

Boris is 2.06 cm tall, he plays the 4 and 5 positions and he is a good rebounder.

Boris has landed in Cyprus last Wednesday and is replacing Vitas Augustinas who is injured and cannot play.

Awards/Achievements:

1B (Montenegro Group) Semifinals -06
Montenegrin Cup Semifinals -07
Montenegrin League Semifinals -07, 10
Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Center of the Year -07, 08, 09
Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League 1st Team -07, 08, 09
Eurobasket.com Montenegrin League All-Domestic Players Team -07, 08
Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Domestic Player of the Year -09
Montenegrin League Finalist -09
Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Honorable Mention -10


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


Ligaen Quarterfinals: First games - by Eurobasket News
Horsholm - Horsens IC 87-75 (1-0)
Horsholm was too strong for Horsens IC last night taking 1-0 lead in the Playoff Quarterfinals. The hosts were ahead by 4 points but lost the second period ending it with a 1-point deficit before their 25-12 run, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Frederik Nielsen (180-88) who helped to win the game recording 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Forward Jonathan Gilling (203-91) contributed with 21 points and 5 assists for the winners. Five Horsholm players scored in double figures. American power forward Mike St.John (203-84, college: La Salle) answered with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds and the former international guard Alan Voskuil (191-86, college: Texas Tech) added 24 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Horsens IC.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: J.Gilling 21+2reb+5ast, F.Nielsen 18+6reb+5ast, A.Bak 17+2reb+5ast, B.Blackmon 13+6reb+2ast, J.Hakanowitz 13+7reb+2ast, C.Rasmussen 3
Horsens IC: A.Voskuil 24+5reb+1ast, M.St.John 18+11reb+1ast, R.Claitt 16+3reb+4ast, C.Lindberg 5+1reb+1ast, T.Katholm 5+2reb, H.Schur 4+6reb
gschID: 123331


Svendborg - Vaerlose 78-65 (1-0)
The regular season champion Svendborg is 1-0 up in the series. The game without a history. Svendborg led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Svendborg outrebounded Vaerlose 44-27 including 16 on the offensive glass. The former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) fired a double-double by scoring 19 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Swingman Claus Magaard (194-86) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds. Four Svendborg players scored in double figures. Forward Mads Rasmussen (191-86) produced 18 points and international guard Julian McFarlane (184-86) added 15 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: N.Iversen 19+10reb+5ast, C.Magaard 14+7reb+2ast, A.Darboe 14+3reb+6ast, M.Williams 12+10reb+1ast, M.Mariegaard 8+2ast, C.Cavanaugh 6+8reb+3ast
Vaerlose: M.Rasmussen 18+3reb+1ast, J.McFarlane 15+2reb+2ast, R.Larsen 9+6reb+1ast, S.Jensen 8+3reb+4ast, O.Sedoc-Moller 7+4reb+1ast, P.Ba 4+4reb
gschID: 123414


Bakken - Aabyhoj 84-41 (1-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Bakken, who destroyed their rivals with huge 84-41. Aabyhoj was better in second period 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Aabyhoj to just 7 points in first and fourth quarters. Bakken forced 19 Aabyhoj turnovers and outrebounded them 36-23 including 24 on the defensive glass. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Jahmar Thorpe (198-84, college: Houston, agency: KMG Sports Management) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 8 rebounds. Swingman Andreas Jorgensen (190-84) contributed with 18 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. British-American guard Anthony Martin (186-80) answered with 9 points and 6 rebounds and forward Frederik Rungby (196-93) added 12 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Aabyhoj.
Top scorers:
Bakken: J.Thorpe 21+8reb+3ast, A.Jorgensen 18+1ast, A.Jakobsen 11+5reb+3ast, C.Christoffersen 7+4reb, C.Burgess 6+6reb+4ast, M.Kristensen 6
Aabyhoj: F.Rungby 12+5reb, D.Jukic 12+1reb+1ast, A.Martin 9+6reb+3ast, R.Laier 3+3reb, M.Draegert 3+2reb, J.Hvam 2+2reb
gschID: 123415


Naestved - SISU 92-77 (1-0)
The game was mostly controlled by Naestved, who took 1-0 lead in the series. SISU was better in second period 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. It was a very good performance for American power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay (OH)) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points and 24 rebounds. Lithuanian swingman Marius Kasiulevicius (198-82, college: Trinity Valley JC) contributed with 27 points for the winners. Guard Mikael Nielsen (178-90) answered with 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and American swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) added 17 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for SISU. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Naestved: M.Kasiulevicius 27+1reb+2ast, N.Christensen 14+2reb+3ast, L.Roberts 14+24reb+3ast, D.Smedley 13+5reb+12ast, P.Johansen 11+6reb+1ast, L.Hoirup 9+2reb+1ast
SISU: M.Nielsen 19+9reb+4ast, D.Rutherford 17+9reb, M.Dennis 17+9reb+4ast, M.Brown 12+5reb+1ast, D.Harder 10+2reb, R.Wurr 2+1reb+2ast
gschID: 123416




Standings - 1st Division
1st Division Standings
 1. Falcon 17-2 
 2. Stevnsgade 16-3 
 3. Lemvig 13-6 
 4. Haderslev 12-7 
 5. Virum 11-8 
 6. Glostrup 10-7 
 7. Solrod 10-11 
 8. Skt.Klemens 6-13 
 9. ALBA 6-13 
 10. Aarhus BF 6-14 
 11. Herlev 4-15 
 12. Hobas 3-15 


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Thomas SOLTAU
  SISU
  (210-F-82)
  Avg: 22.8
 1. Soltau, SISU22.8 
 2. Morris, Aabyhoj22.5 
 3. Brasas, Amager BK21.5 
 4. Hall, Aalborg21.4 
 5. Colas, Vaerlose19.8 
 6. Iversen, Svendborg18.9 
 7. Roberts, Naestved18.5 
 8. Dennis, SISU18.5 
 9. McGinn, Aalborg16.7 
 10. Falkner, Aalborg16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lee ROBERTS
  Naestved
  (201-F/C-87)
  Avg: 13.3
 1. Roberts, Naestved13.3 
 2. Colas, Vaerlose10.5 
 3. St.John, Horsens IC10.0 
 4. Morris, Aabyhoj9.9 
 5. Falkner, Aalborg9.4 
 6. Johansen, Naestved9.4 
 7. Soltau, SISU8.8 
 8. Williams, Svendborg7.7 
 9. Hakanowitz, Horsh.7.0 
 10. Burgess, Bakken6.9 
Assists Per Game
 D.J. SMEDLEY
  Naestved
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Smedley, Naestved6.5 
 2. Claitt, Horsens IC5.6 
 3. Hall, Aalborg5.2 
 4. Dennis, SISU4.7 
 5. Nielsen, Horsholm4.2 
 6. Burgess, Bakken4.1 
 7. Martin, Aabyhoj4.0 
 8. Jensen, Vaerlose3.8 
 9. Darboe, Svendborg3.7 
 10. Nielsen, SISU3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Marquis HALL
  Aalborg
  (183-G-87)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Hall, Aalborg3.8 
 2. Kristiansen, Aalborg2.1 
 3. Dennis, SISU2.0 
 4. Nielsen, Horsholm1.9 
 5. Nielsen, SISU1.8 
 6. Jakobsen, Bakken1.8 
 7. Burgess, Bakken1.8 
 8. Colman, Svendborg1.8 
 9. Smedley, Naestved1.7 
 10. Jukic, Aabyhoj1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Edward MORRIS
  Aabyhoj
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Morris, Aabyhoj2.1 
 2. Blackmon, Horsholm1.7 
 3. Christoffers., Bak.1.6 
 4. Colas, Vaerlose1.4 
 5. Roberts, Naestved1.1 
 6. St.John, Horsens IC0.9 
 7. Johansen, Naestved0.8 
 8. Brown, SISU0.7 
 9. McGinn, Aalborg0.7 
 10. Logan, Amager BK0.7 


*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


Thunder assigns Byron Mullens to D-League Tulsa - by Eurobasket News
For the third time this season, the Oklahoma City Thunder have assigned reserve center Byron Mullens (7'0''-C-89, college: Ohio St.) to the Tulsa 66ers of the NBA Development League.

Thunder general manager Sam Presti announced the move Thursday. Mullens is expected to be in uniform Friday for Tulsa's home game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce.

In his two previous stints with Tulsa, the 7-foot Mullens has started in all six of his appearances and averaged 16.7 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocked shots per game.

He's played in 12 games this season for Oklahoma City, averaging 1.3 points and 1.6 rebounds per game.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

NBA veteran Bobby Simmons signs with Reno Bighorns - by Eurobasket News
The Reno Bighorns have signed nine-year NBA veteran Bobby Simmons (6'7''-F/G-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida St.), who has played over 400 NBA games with the Wizards, Clippers, Bucks, Nets and Spurs.

Simmons, a 6-6, 235-pound shooting guard out of DePaul, has averaged 9.4 points per game over his 438-game NBA career. He enjoyed his best season during the 2004-05 campaign, when he averaged 16.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game while playing for the Los Angeles Clippers. That season, he shot 43.5% from beyond the arc.

Simmons takes the roster spot of Thomas Gardner, who was waived due to injury earlier today. Reno will retain Gardner's rights and expects to re-sign him when he becomes healthy.

Simmons previously played in the NBA Development League during the 2002-03 season, when he averaged 17.1 points per game in 14 games with the now-defunct Mobile Revelers.

He is expected to wear number 32 and be active for this weekend's back-to-back contests against the Utah Flash.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Skyforce acquires McDowell - by Eurobasket News
The Sioux Falls Skyforce announced that the team has acquired guard Stephen McDowell (5'11''-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Chattanooga) from the available player pool. To make room for him on the roster the team waived guard Anthony Harris due to injury. He is expected to be in uniform for tonight's road game against the Texas Legends at 7 p.m. CT. The active roster now stands at 10 players.

McDowell holds NBA Development League career averages of 7.4 points and 2.3 assists in 38 games (eight starts) with the Bakersfield Jam (3), New Mexico Thunderbirds (32) and Austin Toros (3). He scored a season-high 25 points to go along with six rebounds and three steals for New Mexico on Jan. 10. The 6-0, 180-pound guard was named All-Southern Conference First Team after averaging 18.1 points and 3.3 rebounds in 35 games (all starts) as a senior at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 2008-09.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Stephane Lasme returns to Red Claws - by Eurobasket News
The Maine Red Claws, presented by Quirk Chevrolet, today announced that forward Stephane Lasme (6'8''-F-82, college: Massachusetts) will make his Red Claws regular season debut tonight at Erie. Expected to be an integral part of the Red Claws plans this season and an NBA call-up candidate, Lasme, who joined the Red Claws in training camp out of the Boston Celtics camp as one of three Affiliated Players, fractured his foot just 2 minutes into the teams lone preseason game and was not expected to return this season.

Drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the 2nd round (46th overall) in the 2007 NBA Draft, Lasme played one game for the Warriors during his rookie season before joining the Los Angeles D-Fenders of the NBA D-League. He earned a GATORADE call-up when he signed with the Miami Heat in March of that season, appearing in 15 games in which he averaged 5.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Lasme took his game overseas for the next two seasons, playing for teams in Serbia and Israel before earning an invite to the Boston Celtics 2011 training camp. A four-year standout at the University of Massachusetts, Lasme is the schools all-time leader in career blocks (399) and second all-time in field-goal percentage (.595). As a senior, he became just the third player in NCAA history to record four triple-doubles in a single season.

With the return of 2011 1st round draft pick (3rd overall) Magnum Rolle, also felled by an early season injury just two games into the season, and now Lasme, the Red Claws more closely resemble the roster expected when the season began.

To make room on the roster, the Red Claws have waived Lewis Clinch.

Courtesy of www.celtics247.com

Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Iowa E. 31-11 
 2. Erie Bay H. 27-13 
 3. Ft.Wayne MA 18-22 
 4. Dakota W. 15-26 
 5. Sioux Falls S. 8-30 
Southwest Division
 1. Tulsa 66ers 28-11 
 2. Rio Grande 28-12 
 3. Texas L. 18-23 
 4. Austin T. 17-22 
 5. New Mexico 15-25 
 6. Maine RC 14-27 
West Division
 1. Reno Bighorns 25-15 
 2. Bakersfield J. 24-15 
 3. Utah F. 23-15 
 4. Idaho S. 17-22 
 5. Springfield A. 11-30 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 26.1
 1. Johnson, Bakersfi.26.1 
 2. Johnson, Erie B.21.4 
 3. Jeffers, Iowa E.21.2 
 4. Alexander, Texas L.19.9 
 5. Adrien, Rio Grande19.9 
 6. McNeal, Rio Grande19.5 
 7. Dentmon, Texas L.19.3 
 8. Sims, Maine RC19.0 
 9. Byars, Bakersfi.18.6 
 10. Stinson, Iowa E.17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeff ADRIEN
  Golde State W.
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Adrien, Rio Grande12.2 
 2. Ewing, Sioux F.10.5 
 3. Davidson, Idaho S.10.0 
 4. Sims, Iowa E.9.6 
 5. Williams, Texas L.9.5 
 6. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.9.4 
 7. Alexander, Texas L.9.3 
 8. Johnson, Dakota W.9.2 
 9. Jeffers, Iowa E.9.0 
 10. Cousin, Austin T.8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Stinson, Iowa E.9.2 
 2. Miles, Reno Bighorns8.7 
 3. Daniels, Texas L.8.7 
 4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.7.9 
 5. Jackson, Idaho S.7.5 
 6. Jackson, Erie B.6.6 
 7. Johnson, Austin T.6.5 
 8. Reynolds, Spring.6.0 
 9. Ahearn, Erie Bay H.5.8 
 10. Bailey, Sioux F.5.5 
Steals Per Game
 Zabian DOWDELL
  Phoenix Suns
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers2.5 
 2. Miles, Reno Bighorns2.5 
 3. Lin, Reno Bighorns2.3 
 4. Greene, Utah F.2.1 
 5. Lofton, Iowa E.2.1 
 6. Jackson, Erie B.2.1 
 7. Lafayette, Ft.Wayne.2.0 
 8. Reynolds, Spring.1.9 
 9. Shakur, Rio Grande1.9 
 10. Jeffers, Iowa E.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Sean WILLIAMS
  Texas L.
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Williams, Texas L.2.8 
 2. Johnson, Dakota W.2.8 
 3. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers2.4 
 4. Whiteside, Reno B.2.2 
 5. Naymick, Bakersfi.2.1 
 6. Atchley, Rio Grande2.1 
 7. Gladness, Dakota W.1.9 
 8. Sykes, Sioux F.1.8 
 9. Gaffney, Utah F.1.7 
 10. O''Bryant, Reno B.1.7 


*****************************************************
  EBA   


Stats Leaders
EBA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 , Johnson, Hudson Valley Hype, 34.8
2 , Parker, Harrisburg Horizon, 33.3
3 , Scott, New York Wizards, 28.6
4 , Hankins, Old Dominion Mustangs, 28.2
5 , Weaver, Washington Madness, 27.4
Rebounds Per Game
1 , Cheatham, The Destroyers, 13.3
2 , Frazier, The Destroyers, 13.3
3 , Witcher, Old Dominion Mustangs, 11.6
4 , Brown, Metropolitan All-Stars, 10.6
5 , Ferguson, Old Dominion Mustangs, 9.8
Assists Per Game
1 , Howard, Washington Madness, 7
2 , Gill, Washington Madness, 6.6
3 , Scott, New York Wizards, 6.1
4 , Reynolds, Old Dominion Mustangs, 5.3
5 , Jeffries, Washington Madness, 5
Steals Per Game
1 , Hankins, Old Dominion Mustangs, 4.3
2 , Hankins, Old Dominion Mustangs, 4.2
3 , Jeffries, Washington Madness, 4.2
4 , Randolph, Carolina Gladiators, 4
5 , Hawkins, Metropolitan All-Stars, 3.4
Blocks Per Game
1 , Wrice, South Jersey Enterprise, 3.5
2 , Alleyne, New York Wizards, 2.7
3 , Onunaku, Winchester Storm, 2.4
4 , Reynolds, Old Dominion Mustangs, 2.3
5 , Onuaku, Washington Madness, 2


Standings
EBA Standings
Div.
 1. New York W. 8-2 
 2. Destroyers 8-3 
 3. Harrisburg H. 5-4 
 4. South Jersey E. 5-5 
 5. North Jersey P. 4-7 
 6. Hudson V.H. 1-10 
 7. M. All-Stars 8-1 
 8. Washington M. 7-3 
 9. Winchester S. 6-4 
 10. Old Domin. M. 5-5 
 11. Carolina G. 3-4 
 12. NoVa H. 2-8 
 13. Portsmouth C. 2-9 


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


INTERVIEW WITH CASEY ARCHIBALD! - by Ozell Wells
Eurobasket had the pleasure of speaking with Casey Archibald (195-G-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy), currently nearing the end of the regular season in his best year professionally. Playing with TTU/Kalev in the Estonian EMKL, he was instrumental in their defeat of TU/ROCK two days ago shooting a game high 16 pts on 7-9 from the field in the defeat of the 1st place Rock team.
EU: Casey, how have you found playing in Estonia?
CA: It's been great so far. We're in a good position entering the playoffs and hopefully we can make some noise there to cap off an otherwise pretty good season.
EU: How would you compare the level of play with Austria or Germany, the site of your previous pro experiences?
CA: In Austria and Germany there are a lot more foreigners and the locals aren't expected to do as much. Here most teams bring in 1 or 2 imports which gives a lot of playing time to some of the younger up and coming players. This also makes the game much more 'European' with a lot of emphasis on pick and rolls, and creating things off of that as opposed to running a lot of long sets or throwing the ball inside and playing off that. Also with the combination of the 2 leagues that we play in here we play 2 to 3 times as many games as we did in those seasons. Less practices, more games. Can't complain with that!
EU: How about the Baltic League in comparison also?
CA: The Baltic League is a good level of ball. 6 of the teams also play in other European leagues (challenge, cup and VTB) and not all of those teams made the playoffs in the Baltic League so it shows where that's at. It was this teams first year in the BBL so we experienced some up and downs, but as the season went on we got used to the style of play I think and as a team it made us a lot better.
EU: What to date, are your thoughts on the season? We see that you have a solid hold on the 3rd position on the table with only 3 rounds left to play. After experiencing a few close losses and also some very tight victories, what are your thoughts?
CA: Up until now I think our team has done what most people would have predicted before the season when it comes to the Estonian League. We've knocked off the defending champions twice (TU/Rock) and have more or less controlled the teams below us. 3rd place is fine going into the playoffs but personally I wont really be satisfied unless we make the finals and win it all.
EU: With the crucial games looming where do u see TTU headed as you prepare for the postseason?
CA: It will be difficult for us to finish in any position other than 3rd going into the playoffs. We're 8 games ahead of 4th place and 3 games behind 2nd/1st so not too much will change.
EU: How did you come about signing with TTU after your season in Germany? Was it a place where you always wanted to play?
CA: I didn't know much about the Estonian league before last season when I had 2 friends playing here. They actually met in the finals so I came up to watch after my season finished. Before that I had no idea about this league. I ended up signing in July and it actually had nothing to do with my visit but it was just through a connection that I had here.
EU: It appears that your versatility is posing match-up problems for opponents, is this something that you have worked on and perfected?
CA: There are certain things you can control and certain things you can't. I'm not going to be able to get any taller unfortunately but I can get stronger. I try to keep my strength up because that is something that I can control. Overall it's helped me on both ends of the court, and I do like to use that as a match up problem.
EU: At the rate things have been going, I would say it is safe to say that you may be in line for some post season awards. Although the playoffs may be the deciding factor. How do you see the team in the stretch run here both in the Baltic League and in the EMKL last rounds?
CA: Awards always just seem to come as a result of winning. I try not to focus on those things but rather just keep getting better and win as many games as possible, and the rest will take care of itself.
EU: What do you think on your future prospects after the stint in the EMKL?
CA: I'm open to see what is out there. I think this season has helped me grow as a player and I've learned some things going through this kind of year where we play so many different kinds of teams. Hopefully it helps me moving forward and I can take some of my experience over the last 4 seasons to help a team make a championship run next year.
EU: Any thing to share or say to your family or fans back home in Vancouver?
CA: Just want to say good luck to my old college team who just got the #1 seed going into the national championships. This is the year to get it! See you all very soon!
WE AT EUROBASKET WOULD LIKE TO WISH CASEY A STRONG FINISH TO THE SEASON & WE LOOK TO HEAR MANY MORE GREAT THINGS FROM HIM IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. BEST SWISHES CASEY!

Standings - KML
EMKL Standings
 1. Kalev/Cramo 27-3 
 2. TU/Rock 25-3 
 3. TTU/Kalev 20-6 
 4. Rakvere 15-14 
 5. Valga/CKE 11-17 
 6. Rapla 11-17 
 7. TTU/Kalev II 10-18 
 8. Parnu 8-21 
 9. Voru KK 1-29 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Thornton, Voru KK18.7 
 2. Saage, Rakvere18.1 
 3. Erm, Rapla17.7 
 4. Raap, Parnu16.6 
 5. Brown, Va.16.6 
 6. Raadik, Parnu16.2 
 7. Arnold, TT.15.6 
 8. Pilk, TT.14.5 
 9. Osby, TT.14.4 
 10. Hall, Rakvere14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Thornton, Voru KK12.2 
 2. Brown, Va.11.2 
 3. Arnold, TT.11.0 
 4. Ringmets, Rapla9.7 
 5. Kuuba, Voru KK9.2 
 6. Osby, TT.8.7 
 7. Eziukwu, TU/Rock8.1 
 8. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.7.4 
 9. Pokla, Rakvere7.4 
 10. Raadik, Parnu6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Valmo KRIISA
  TTU/Kalev
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Kriisa, TT.3.8 
 2. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.5 
 3. Sokk, TU/Rock3.4 
 4. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo3.0 
 5. Oja, Va.2.8 
 6. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock2.8 
 7. Pokla, Rakvere2.7 
 8. Dorbek, Rakvere2.7 
 9. Archibald, TT.2.5 
 10. Ringmets, Rapla2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Armands SKELE
  Kalev/Cramo
  (192-G-83)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Skele, Kalev/Cramo2.6 
 2. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 3. Saage, Rakvere2.2 
 4. Karner, Parnu2.2 
 5. Laane, Rapla2.2 
 6. Raap, Parnu2.2 
 7. Doronin, TU/Rock2.0 
 8. Dorbek, Rakvere1.8 
 9. Pilk, TT.1.8 
 10. Oja, Va.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock1.8 
 2. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.3 
 3. Osby, TT.1.3 
 4. Raadik, Parnu1.2 
 5. Arnold, TT.0.9 
 6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.9 
 7. Brown, Va.0.8 
 8. Kuuba, Voru KK0.7 
 9. Saarmets, TTU/K.0.7 
 10. Montgomery, Rapla0.6 


Ventspils take lead against TU/Rock - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils - TU/Rock 84:77

Ventspils surged ahead in the BBL quarterfinal series against TU/Rock. Arturs Berzins (204-C-88, agency: FCM) scored 16 points to propel the Latvian team to the opening win. Game 2 is scheduled for March 17.
TU/Rock got to the better start in the game. They stormed to a 14:6 lead midway through the opening term. The Estonian side earned a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. Ventspils scored four points in a row to spur in front at the beginning of the second quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) and Doronin established a 44:40 halftime advantage for the visitors. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) posted a 48:42 lead early in the third term. The hosts reacted with 7 consecutive points to narrow the deficit. Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83, college: Connecticut) and Gulbis helped Ventspils to a 58:57 lead after three quarters. Arturs Berzins allowed Ventspils open a 6-point lead midway through the fourth term. Rain Veideman and Sten-Timmu Sokk kept TU/Rock within striking distance before Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) capped regulation with 5 points in a row and sealed the winning outcome.
Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence), Rashad Anderson and Janis Strelnieks provided 10 points each for the home team. Rain Veideman answered with 15 points for TU/Rock. Sten-Timmu Sokk had 14 points and 5 assists in defeat.

Ventspils: Arturs Berzins 16, Oritseweyinmi Efejuku 10, Rashad Anderson 10, Janis Strelnieks 10
TU/Rock: Rain Veideman 15, Sten-Timmu Sokk 14


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


KORISLIIGA: Three rounds left - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 41: There are three rounds left out of the regular season. Tonight # 1 Team Pyrinto, Tampere (34-7) defeated # 11 YMCA Lappeenranta (9-32) 88-76. Kenneth Lowe (192-G-80, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Purdue) scored game high 26 pts and grabbed 12 rbs. James Lewis (191-G-86, college: Fresno Pacific) led YMCA LPR with 18 pts and 10 rbs. In Helsinki # 7 Torpan Pojat (19-22) beat # 4 Team Korihait, Uusikaupunki (27-14) 110-103. Timo Heinonen (198-F-81) led the hosts with 26 pts (20 pts during the first half). Lawrence Wright (195-F-84, college: Bradley) netted 19 pts for the visitors.
Pyrinto - YMCA Lappeenranta 88-76 (39-39). (Kenneth Lowe 26/12, Antwine Williams 23, Damon Williams 16 - James Lewis 18/10, HL Coleman 16/10, Malik Moore 14).
Torpan Pojat - Korihait 110-103 (60-53). (Timo Heinonen 26, Tyray Pearson 20/12, LaVell Blanchard 17 - Lawrence Wright 19, Petri Heinonen 19, Mikko Jalonen 17).
Play-off-games in Division 1:
Honka, Tapiola - Loimaa 53-73 (29-41). (Jesse Viita 17, Ilkka Sirola 13, Panu Vertio 10 - JaSon Stamper 21/17, Eero Aaltonen 14, Santeri Latvala 11). Honka - Loimaa 0-2. LoKoKo continues.
Huima, Aanekoski - Lapua 106-88 (53-42). (Lamar Roberson 31, Jamaal Douglas 18/13, Treylon Manning 15 - Derick Nelson 36, Tyrwone Still 16, Benny Valentine 15). Huima - Lapua 1-1. Game # 3 will be needed.



Standings - Korisliiga
Korisliiga Standings
 1. Pyrinto 34-7 
 2. Kataja 28-12 
 3. KTP 28-12 
 4. Korihait 27-14 
 5. Honka 23-15 
 6. Kouvot 20-20 
 7. Karhu 19-20 
 8. ToPo 19-22 
 9. Namika Lahti 15-24 
 10. Salon Vilpas 13-27 
 11. LrNMKY 9-32 
 12. Tarmo 5-35 


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga
Points Per Game
 Jamar WILSON
  Honka
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.4
 1. Wilson, Honka22.4 
 2. Heard, Tarmo20.8 
 3. Lewis, LrNM.20.5 
 4. Wood, Karhu20.5 
 5. Blanchard, ToPo19.7 
 6. Walker, Kouvot19.6 
 7. Bailey, LrNM.19.6 
 8. Williamson, Honka19.2 
 9. Williams, Pyrinto18.9 
 10. Barrett, KTP18.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 12.9
 1. Wood, Karhu12.9 
 2. Kaunisto, Kouvot10.6 
 3. Doaks, Salon Vilpas10.2 
 4. Mathis, Namika Lahti9.9 
 5. Young, Tarmo9.8 
 6. Williams, Pyrinto9.5 
 7. Vinson, Kouvot9.2 
 8. Blanchard, ToPo9.1 
 9. Coleman, LrNM.8.7 
 10. Belser, Honka8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Malik MOORE
  LrNMKY
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Moore, LrNM.4.7 
 2. Johnson, Karhu4.6 
 3. Suonio, Namika Lahti4.3 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto4.3 
 5. Virtanen, Kataja4.1 
 6. Wood, Karhu4.1 
 7. Sarcevic, Korihait3.6 
 8. Fields, KTP3.5 
 9. Ivey, KTP3.5 
 10. Okorie, Salon Vilpas3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Jerald FIELDS
  KTP
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Fields, KTP2.1 
 2. Wood, Karhu2.1 
 3. Moore, Korihait1.9 
 4. Sarcevic, Korihait1.8 
 5. Heard, Tarmo1.8 
 6. Conerly, Tarmo1.8 
 7. Richards, ToPo1.7 
 8. Williams, Pyrinto1.7 
 9. Newson, Kataja1.7 
 10. Fells, Kataja1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 James REAVES
  Korihait
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 0.9
 1. Reaves, Korihait0.9 
 2. Hendley, Namika Lahti0.7 
 3. Wilson, Honka0.7 
 4. Heard, Tarmo0.7 
 5. Bailey, LrNM.0.7 
 6. Blanchard, ToPo0.6 
 7. Belser, Honka0.6 
 8. Moore, LrNM.0.6 
 9. Suonio, Namika Lahti0.6 
 10. Wood, Karhu0.6 


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


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


Standings - ProB
ProB Standings
 1. Rouen 17-7 
 2. Nanterre 17-7 
 3. Le Portel 15-9 
 4. Evreux 15-9 
 5. Maurienne 15-10 
 6. Fos Ouest 15-10 
 7. Dijon 14-10 
 8. Chalons-Reims 14-10 
 9. Boulazac 13-11 
 10. Boulogne 13-12 
 11. Bourg 12-12 
 12. Lille 10-14 
 13. Nantes 10-14 
 14. Antibes 10-15 
 15. St Vallier 10-15 
 16. Quimper 9-15 
 17. Clermont 6-19 
 18. Charleville 4-20 


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Tremmell DARDEN
  Nancy
  (194-G/F-81)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Darden, Nancy18.3 
 2. Mejia, Cholet18.0 
 3. Nichols, Vichy17.9 
 4. Hughes, Hyeres-T.17.7 
 5. Jefferson, AS.16.8 
 6. Massie, Limoges16.8 
 7. King, Le Havre15.8 
 8. Woodside, Gravelines15.8 
 9. Haynes, Chalon15.4 
 10. Bennett, Pau-La.15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-F/C-77)
  Avg: 8.9
 1. Massie, Limoges8.9 
 2. Akingbala, Nancy8.8 
 3. Krupalija, Hyeres.8.8 
 4. Issa, Gravelines8.8 
 5. Jones, Le Havre8.5 
 6. Elegar, Vichy7.9 
 7. Koffi, Le Mans7.6 
 8. Jefferson, AS.7.5 
 9. Falker, Cholet7.3 
 10. Hughes, Hyeres-T.7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Rouen
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Reid, Vichy6.3 
 2. Linehan, Nancy6.2 
 3. King, Le Havre6.2 
 4. Wright, Limoges6.1 
 5. Woodside, Gravelines5.9 
 6. Walsh, AS.5.3 
 7. Diabate, Roanne5.2 
 8. Schilb, Chalon4.8 
 9. Sciarra, Pau-La.4.7 
 10. Tchicamboud, Cha.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Linehan, Nancy3.7 
 2. Diot, Le Mans2.5 
 3. Walsh, AS.2.4 
 4. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.2.4 
 5. Darden, Nancy2.2 
 6. Diabate, Roanne1.8 
 7. Greer, Strasbourg1.7 
 8. Albicy, Paris-Le.1.7 
 9. Elegar, Vichy1.7 
 10. Woodside, Gravelines1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Gravelines
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Akpomedah, Grave.1.8 
 2. Issa, Gravelines1.7 
 3. Sene, Gravelines1.5 
 4. Jefferson, AS.1.4 
 5. Akingbala, Nancy1.3 
 6. Falker, Cholet1.3 
 7. Pasco, Strasbourg1.3 
 8. Wilkinson, Le Havre1.2 
 9. Koffi, Le Mans1.2 
 10. Fofana, AS.1.1 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 Moses SONKO
  Maurienne
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 19
 1. Sonko, Maurienne19.0 
 2. Harris, Lille18.5 
 3. Siggers, Rouen18.5 
 4. Carter, Nanterre17.8 
 5. Gay, Fos Ouest17.1 
 6. Milbourne, Boulogne15.7 
 7. Davis, Le Portel15.7 
 8. Watson, Evreux15.6 
 9. Rouse, Charleville15.5 
 10. Labeyrie, Le Portel15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Korvotney BARBER
  Nantes
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Barber, Nantes10.4 
 2. Daniels, Chalons-.10.2 
 3. Mathis, Maurienne10.0 
 4. Monds, Bourg8.7 
 5. Bing, Dijon8.6 
 6. Monroe, Boulogne8.4 
 7. Giles, Rouen8.3 
 8. Rouse, Charleville8.3 
 9. Massot, Antibes7.5 
 10. Badiane, Boulazac7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Da Silva, Evreux8.2 
 2. Rowland, Le Portel6.4 
 3. Downey, Nantes5.8 
 4. Patiejunas, Boulo.5.5 
 5. Taylor, Rouen5.0 
 6. Williams, Le Portel5.0 
 7. Craven, Dijon4.9 
 8. Denave, St Vallier4.8 
 9. Mullins, Chalons-.4.7 
 10. Akono, Nanterre4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Kyle SHILOH
  St Vallier
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Shiloh, St Vallier2.6 
 2. Doyne, Charleville2.6 
 3. Daniels, Chalons-.2.5 
 4. Riley, Nanterre2.4 
 5. Sonko, Maurienne2.4 
 6. Craven, Dijon2.3 
 7. Patiejunas, Boulo.2.3 
 8. Melody, Dijon2.1 
 9. Mullins, Chalons-.2.1 
 10. Harris, Lille2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 2
 1. Gay, Fos Ouest2.0 
 2. Jefferson, Quimper1.5 
 3. Barber, Nantes1.0 
 4. Adjiwanou, Boula.0.9 
 5. Taccoen, Lille0.9 
 6. Daniels, Nanterre0.9 
 7. Monds, Bourg0.9 
 8. N''Diaye, Clermont0.9 
 9. Diakite, Chalons-.0.8 
 10. Bouldin, Clermont0.7 


*****************************************************
  GABON   


Stephane Lasme returns to Red Claws - by Eurobasket News
The Maine Red Claws, presented by Quirk Chevrolet, today announced that forward Stephane Lasme (6'8''-F-82, college: Massachusetts) will make his Red Claws regular season debut tonight at Erie. Expected to be an integral part of the Red Claws plans this season and an NBA call-up candidate, Lasme, who joined the Red Claws in training camp out of the Boston Celtics camp as one of three Affiliated Players, fractured his foot just 2 minutes into the teams lone preseason game and was not expected to return this season.

Drafted by the Golden State Warriors in the 2nd round (46th overall) in the 2007 NBA Draft, Lasme played one game for the Warriors during his rookie season before joining the Los Angeles D-Fenders of the NBA D-League. He earned a GATORADE call-up when he signed with the Miami Heat in March of that season, appearing in 15 games in which he averaged 5.5 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Lasme took his game overseas for the next two seasons, playing for teams in Serbia and Israel before earning an invite to the Boston Celtics 2011 training camp. A four-year standout at the University of Massachusetts, Lasme is the schools all-time leader in career blocks (399) and second all-time in field-goal percentage (.595). As a senior, he became just the third player in NCAA history to record four triple-doubles in a single season.

With the return of 2011 1st round draft pick (3rd overall) Magnum Rolle, also felled by an early season injury just two games into the season, and now Lasme, the Red Claws more closely resemble the roster expected when the season began.

To make room on the roster, the Red Claws have waived Lewis Clinch.

Courtesy of www.celtics247.com

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


Michael Jordan (Giessen46ers) We Have To Play Hard, Smart And Together For 40 Minutes Against Tuebingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

33 year old Michael Jordan (183-G-77, college: Pennsylvania) is a 183cm guard from Philadelphia. He played at the University of Pennsylvania graduating in 2000. His first two years found him jumping around leagues in France and Spain before he found a new home in Germany with TSV Quackenbruck. In the 2002-2003 season, he helped lead Quackenbruck into the BBL with exceptional stats in 30 games, 21.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 6.9 apg. He helped turn The Artland Dragons into a playoff team in the 2004-2005 season as they lost the BBL Quarterfinal playoff series to The Opel Skyliners in five games. That season he averaged in 34 games: 11.1ppg, 3.4rpg, Ast-1 (6.4apg), 1.3spg, 2.6bpg, 2FGP: 52.5%, 3FGP: 31.3%. The next season, he was released by The Artland Drgaons, but went to Rhein Energie Cologne and won the BBL championship in 2006 averaging in 33 games: 9.8ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-4 (4.1apg), 1.0spg, 2FGP: 45.3%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 52.2%. The next season, he went to Italy and played at Cantu where he led the league in assists and averaged in 37 games: 13.8ppg, 2.7rpg, Assists-1 (5.2apg), 2.0spg, 2FGP: 54.6%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 74.0%. The next season, he played in Belgium for Charleroi averaging in 15 games: 9.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.6apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 90.0%;. He had injury problems and finished the season in Greece with PAOK. In 2008-2009 after a very short stay in Israel, he played a few months in Bamberg before going to the Cologne 99ers averaging 10,5ppg, 2,4rpg and leading the BBL in assists with 6,2apg. Last season, he played for Phoenix Hagen helping the team remain in the BEKO BBL. He played 16 games: 8.9ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-5 (5.3apg), FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 73.3%. This season he started with MBC before going to the Giessen 46ers recently. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against The Walter Tigers Tuebingen March 12th.

The Giessen 46ers are coming off a tough 81-62 loss against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners. How well has the club digested the loss the last days?


Our last 2 losses have been very hard to digest, but I think we have focused in on what we need to do and are ready to prove ourselves in the next games. The intensity and focus in practice this week has been a lot better. Coach has us ready for the next opponent.

Since your arrival the Giessen 46ers are 2-4.What tends to be the biggest weak point that the team has to improve the most?


We just have to play HARD, SMART, AND TOGETHER, for 40minutes. Not 10,20, or even 39minutes, but the full 40. Our biggest weakness has been our lack of focus and execution @ crucial points in the game. Basketball is 85-90% mental.

The next game is against The Walter TIgers Tuebingen. What has been your impression of the team this season? They are giving their biggest shot to reach the playoffs this season?


Tuebingen is a good team. They have arguably one of the best Pg's in the league. They have size, shooters. They have had some injuries I think which has hurt them a little but they still have managed to win games. They are def a dangerous team and we need to be ready and focused.

Tuebingen is coming off a 40 point loss in Bamberg. What is always the most dangerous thing about meeting a club next that just got blown away badly?


Well Miles, to be honest it depends on their mindset. I do not know how they think, I only know that I would be HEATED and ready to whoop my next opponent. It can go either way. 1-the team is pissed and want payback or to prove themselves in the next game, or 2- The confidence is at an all time low.. I'm gonna assume that it's #1... It will be the same for both teams because we just came off of 2 subpar performances also and one in front of our own people.

Bane Ratkovica belongs to the top point guards in the BEKO BBL. Will controlling the Serb and controlling the boards be about 80% the rent for getting the win at home?


He is a very good player and he gets them going. He accounts for 80+% of their points from either scoring it himself or dropping dimes. He is the general out there so we def have to cut the head off the snake to win. We also have to as you said, control the other guys and the glass. Limit them to 1 challenged shot each time down the floor.

The Celtics signed Carlos Arroyo. What do you expect from the guard combo Rondo/Arroyo?


Rondo will do what he does. It's up to Carlos to come in and give rondo a few minutes of rest and not make mistakes. If he gets out there and tries to do more than that it could be a problem. With that team, you just have to play Defense, get the ball to the right people and make your open shots.. You know simple ball :D

Should one have compassion for a player like Sherron Collins who misses two flights and then doesnt get the contract from the Charlotte Bobcats?


Man, that's tough.This is the 1st I'm hearing bout this. It depends on why he missed the flights ya know? When an opportunity like that comes around you have to make sure you are there. It's a tough situation but as I said, what were the reasons for issuing the flights?

Ratiopharm Ulm has made an interesting pickup for the stretch run getting Tommy Mason Griffin who turned pro after a great season with Oklahoma. What is your overall opinion of players turning pro early?

I don't have a problem with players leaving early. If you are going to be a lottery pick then I say go while you are hot because you never know what can happen in the next year or even day for that matter. Now on the flipside, there are some dudes that know damn well they should have stayed in school. To each his each or her own though Miles. Some guys leave for a various number of reasons. If I was good enough to get drafted out of HS and would have gone lottery I would have. I had a great support staff and I think I would have been just fine.. So it depends on each individual situation.

Thanks MJ for the chat

Jacob Burtschi (Phoenix Hagen) Oldenburg Is Definitely A Team No One Wants In The First Round - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jacob Burtschi (198-F-84, college: Air Force) is a 26 year old 198cm forward from Chickasha, Oklahoma who is a rookie this season for Phoenix Hagen. He played at the Air Force from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 35 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.7%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 77.3%. He had offers to play in the NBA, but served in the Air Force the last three years and could only play club ball. Some achievements that he got in the NCAA were All-MWC Honorable Mention -05, MWC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-MWC 2nd Team -06, 07, NABC All-NCAA District 13 2nd Team -07, and NIT Final Four -07. Jacob spoke to eurobasket before the game against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg on March 12th.

Phoenix Hagen is coming off a big win against BBC Bayreuth. The next game is against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg. What has been the focus in practice this week?

Trying to figure a way to slow all their weapons down. They got a lot.

Phoenix Hagen beat Oldenburg 89-62 at home earlier in the year. What do you remember from this big win?

It was out first home TV game. The fans were going crazy and we played the lights out.

What has been your impression of Oldenburg this year? They are a team that should make the playoffs but nothing is for granted in the BEKO BBL.

They are a very talented team. They have hit a few bumps in the road. They look to be in the playoffs and they are definitely a team no one would want in the first round.

In that first game Oliver Stevic had 14 points and 11 rebounds. How much of a challenge is it playing him and what does he do best?

He is a garbage man and thats a good term. He hustles for rebounds and gets easy put backs by getting into ood position. He is a tough cover. Got to keep a body on him at all times.

Will controlling Lou Campbell and the boards be half the rent for the win?

I dont even think thats one quarter of the battle to hve a chance to win at their place. We have to limit our mistakes and capitalize on any of theirs and rebounding has always been a sore thumb for us throughout the year.

The Celtics signed Carlos Arroyo. What do you expect from the guard combo Rondo/Arroyo?

Arroyo is there to give Rondo some rest here and there. Arroyo wont make big plays, but he will keep the engine running til Rondo returns to the game.

Should one have compassion for a player like Sherron Collins who misses two flights and then doesnt get the contract from the Charlotte Bobcats?

I dont know the whole story, but each man is responsible for himself and his actions. If he is in the wrong then no I dont. Life is tough.

Ratiopharm Ulm has made an interesting pickup for the stretch run getting Tommy Mason Griffin who turned pro after a great season with Oklahoma. What is your overall opinion of players turning pro early?

Its on them. they are grown and can decide what they want. you always wish the best for them. If it works out, it works out. if not, tough love.

Thanks Jacob for the chat.

Dane Watts (Walter Tigers Tuebingen) Pregame Thoughts To Giessen 46ers Game March 12th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Dane Watts (203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 24 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg. He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. Lasts eason, he played for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. He returns to Tuebingen for the 2010-2011 BEKO BBL season. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. Watts sat down with eurobasket before the game against The Giessen 46ers March 12th.

A tough 113-73 loss in Bamberg.What went wrong in Bamberg. I guess Tuebingen had little answer for the tough Bamberg ball movement and Casey Jacobsen shooting?

Jacobsen was unconscious and we did not do a good job of limiting his shots after he got hot. Our defense was not at the level it needed to be to compete with Bamberg on their home court.

After a nice 6 game winning streak, now a 40 point loss in Bamberg. Is the team mentally strong enough now at this juncture of the season to be able to quickly digest the loss?

I think that game is behind us, we are focused now on our trip to Giessen. We can't let 1 tough loss side track our progress for the rest of the season.

The next game is against The Giessen 46ers. It is always very tough to play in the Osthalle. Which location is louder the Kuhberg halle in Ulm or the Osthalle in Giessen?

We will see on Saturday. They always have good support no matter what the teams record.

What is your memory of the 96-78 win against Giessen earlier in the season?

I remember it was a close game through 3 quarters then we pulled away in the 4th.

How dangerous are the Giessen 46ers? They have the same team as in the first game plus Michael Jordan and Maurice Jeffers.

The addition of those guys bring some veteran stability to the club. Any team is dangerous on their home court in the BBL.

Tuebingen should have the advantage inside. What else will be key in getting the win?

They have very solid bigs and more reserves than we do, they also have guards that can score. We need to control the boards and our offense for 40 mins.

The Celtics signed Carlos Arroyo. What do you expect from the guard combo Rondo/Arroyo?

I expect Rondo to continue to distribute and run the show, Arroyo can give them a better shooting threat.

Should one have compassion for a player like Sherron Collins who misses two flights and then doesnt get the contract from the Charlotte Bobcats?

That depends on why he missed the flights, if it was something out of his control then yea you feel for a guy who missed a great opportunity. But if he was not being professional then I don't feel for him, those opportunities are few and far between for most guys, gotta take advantage if you get a chance.

Ratiopharm Ulm has made an interesting pickup for the stretch run getting Tommy Mason Griffin who turned pro after a great season with Oklahoma. What is your overall opinion of players turning pro early?

If they have the opportunity to turn pro and it is something that they desire I support them. If a student at a University was studying business and a large Corp. wanted to give them a full time job with big money, they would most likely take it as well. Athletes get looked at differently when they do it though.

Thanks Dane for the chat.

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.Bank SKY
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 18.6
 1. Wood, Dt.18.6 
 2. Benzing, ratio.16.4 
 3. Allen, ALBA16.4 
 4. Rice, Art.Dragons16.3 
 5. Bell, Phoenix Hagen15.9 
 6. Ross, MBC15.7 
 7. Harris, EnBW L.15.5 
 8. Martin, Bremerha.15.4 
 9. Dorris, Phoenix .15.2 
 10. Callahan, Bremerha.15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Bryant, ratiopharm10.7 
 2. Ensminger, Teleko.8.5 
 3. Reiner, Bayreuth8.2 
 4. Watts, Walter T.7.7 
 5. Stevic, EWE B.7.2 
 6. Martin, Bremerha.7.1 
 7. Ovcina, LTi 46ers7.1 
 8. Peacock, LTi 46ers6.6 
 9. Pleiss, Brose B.6.5 
 10. Burtschi, Phoenix .6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter Tigers
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Ratkovica, Walter T.7.9 
 2. Wood, Dt.5.7 
 3. Joyce, TBB Trier5.4 
 4. Rice, Art.Dragons5.0 
 5. Jordan, MBC4.3 
 6. Green, EnBW L.4.2 
 7. Gamqrelidze, LTi 4.1 
 8. Campbell, EWE B.4.1 
 9. Copeland, Bremerha.4.0 
 10. McElroy, AL.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Kevin HAMILTON
  NY Phantoms
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Hamilton, NY Phant.2.0 
 2. Martin, Bremerha.1.7 
 3. Pryor, Phoenix .1.6 
 4. Goldsberry, Brose B.1.6 
 5. Burtschi, Phoenix .1.6 
 6. Wood, Dt.1.5 
 7. Dorris, Phoenix .1.5 
 8. Wise, Telekom .1.4 
 9. Bailey, Art.Dragons1.4 
 10. Bernard, MBC1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ekene IBEKWE
  Bayreuth
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.2.4 
 2. Pleiss, Brose B.1.9 
 3. Buechert, Phoenix .1.6 
 4. Bryant, ratiopharm1.4 
 5. Seward, Phoenix .1.3 
 6. Brempong, Duesseld.1.2 
 7. Goree, NY Phantoms1.1 
 8. Scott, Goettingen1.1 
 9. Hines, Brose B.1.0 
 10. Baynes, EWE B.0.9 


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


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Steven SMITH
  Panellinios
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 17.4
 1. Smith, Panellinios17.4 
 2. Marshall, PAOK17.1 
 3. Palacio, Kavala16.7 
 4. Baxter, Ilysiakos16.2 
 5. Kalathis, VAP K.15.1 
 6. Thompson, Ikaros14.5 
 7. Grundy, AEK14.5 
 8. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos14.4 
 9. Francis, Panellinios14.4 
 10. Harris, Ikaros13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Simmons, Kavala10.3 
 2. Thompson, Ikaros8.8 
 3. Kalathis, VAP K.8.6 
 4. Smith, Panellinios8.1 
 5. Papadopoulos, PAOK7.5 
 6. Tucker, Aris7.4 
 7. Bagaric, Marousi7.4 
 8. Looby, Peristeri GS7.2 
 9. Dawson, Ilysiakos6.8 
 10. Elonu, Panionios6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  VAP Kolossos
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 6
 1. Jordan, VAP K.6.0 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympiakos5.6 
 3. Thompson, Ilysi.5.0 
 4. Teodosic, Olympiakos4.7 
 5. Diamantidis, Panath.4.5 
 6. Everett, Iraklis4.4 
 7. Karydas, Ilysiakos4.2 
 8. Xanthopoulos, Panell.4.0 
 9. Papaloukas, Olymp.3.8 
 10. Palacio, Kavala3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Terrell EVERETT
  Bremerhaven
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Everett, Iraklis2.4 
 2. Grundy, AEK1.9 
 3. Marshall, PAOK1.8 
 4. Xanthopoulos, Panell.1.8 
 5. Baxter, Ilysiakos1.8 
 6. Papaloukas, Olymp.1.7 
 7. Karydas, Ilysiakos1.7 
 8. Jamon Lukas, Olymp.1.6 
 9. Kojadinovic, Marousi1.6 
 10. Kalathis, VAP K.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Simmons, Kavala1.9 
 2. Bagaric, Marousi1.9 
 3. Elonu, Panionios1.7 
 4. Thompson, Ikaros1.3 
 5. Dunston, Aris0.9 
 6. Looby, Peristeri GS0.9 
 7. Nesterovic, Olymp.0.8 
 8. Vougioukas, Panath.0.7 
 9. Cohadarevic, AEK0.7 
 10. Harissis, VAP K.0.7 


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


Mullery number one in Holland for round 31 - by Eurobasket News
American forward Matthew Mullery (203-F-87, agency: Stanley International) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Landstede Basketbal Zwolle, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 31.
The 23-year old player had a double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds, while his team edged out Rotterdam (#10, 1-30) 75-72. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Landstede maintains the 9th position in Dutch DBL. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 23 games and recorded just eight victories. Mullery turned to be Landstede's top player in his first season with the team. Matthew Mullery averages this season 12.7ppg and 6.6rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 23-year old American Nate Rohnert (196-G-87) of Landstede. Rohnert had a very good evening with a double-double of 16 points and 15 rebounds. It was enough for Landstede to edge slightly lower-ranked Rotterdam (#10, 1-30) 75-72. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Landstede keeps 9th position. 23 lost games are too many comparing to just eight victories Landstede managed to get this year. Rohnert is one of the most experienced players at Landstede and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Zaire Taylor (193-G-86, agency: 540 Sports) of Magixx KidsRights Nijmegen (#4). Taylor scored 21 points. He was a key player of Magixx, leading his team to a 97-79 easy win against slightly lower-ranked Giants (#5, 14-17). Magixx needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 20 victories and 11 lost games. Taylor has a very solid season. In 29 games in Holland he scored 12.7ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Geoff McDermott (203-F-87) of Magixx - 13 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists
5. C.J. Jackson (206-F-87) of Eiffel Towers - 15 points and 12 rebounds
6. Robbie Sihota (198-F-87) of Rotterdam - 22 points and 10 rebounds
7. Brian Laing (195-G/F-85) of Magixx - 24 points and 2 rebounds
8. Glenn Stokes (170-G-76) of BS Weert - 25 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Brandon Griffin (202-F-82) of Giants - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Tim Blue (205-F-84) of Giants - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists

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

Standings - Eredivisie
DBL Standings
 1. GasTerra 26-5 
 2. ZZ Leiden 25-6 
 3. Eiffel Towers 22-9 
 4. Magixx 20-11 
 5. Giants 14-17 
 6. BS Weert 14-17 
 7. DeFriesland 14-17 
 8. ABC 11-20 
 9. Landstede 8-23 
 10. Rotterdam 1-30 


Stats Leaders - Eredivisie
Points Per Game
 Glenn STOKES
  BS Weert
  (170-G-76)
  Avg: 17.9
 1. Stokes, BS Weert17.9 
 2. Blue, Giants16.1 
 3. Boxley, ZZ Leiden15.4 
 4. Mills, Eiffel Towers15.3 
 5. Laing, Magixx15.2 
 6. Kimbrough, Giants15.2 
 7. Borha, Landstede14.8 
 8. McGhee, ZZ Leiden14.6 
 9. Tiedeman, Giants14.6 
 10. Hilliman, Rotterdam14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Robbie SIHOTA
  Rotterdam
  (198-F-87)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Sihota, Rotterdam10.2 
 2. McDermott, Magixx9.8 
 3. Hilliman, Rotterdam9.6 
 4. Haryasz, GasTerra9.3 
 5. Sanchez, DeFriesl.8.7 
 6. Griffin, Giants8.6 
 7. de Randamie, ABC8.1 
 8. Ellis, GasTerra8.0 
 9. Hamm, BS Weert7.9 
 10. McGhee, ZZ Leiden7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Frank TURNER
  Eiffel Towers
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Turner, Eiffel T.5.1 
 2. Bauscher, GasTerra5.0 
 3. Stokes, BS Weert4.1 
 4. Kimbrough, Giants4.0 
 5. Marshall, Lands.3.6 
 6. Bostain, GasTerra3.6 
 7. Jansen, Eiffel T.3.4 
 8. Williams, DeFriesland3.4 
 9. Slagter, ZZ Leiden3.3 
 10. Mladenovic, Rotte.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Frank TURNER
  Eiffel Towers
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Turner, Eiffel T.2.4 
 2. Taylor, Magixx2.3 
 3. Dourisseau, GasTe.2.3 
 4. McDermott, Magixx2.2 
 5. Stokes, BS Weert2.2 
 6. Jackson, ZZ Leiden2.2 
 7. Marshall, Lands.2.1 
 8. McGhee, ZZ Leiden2.1 
 9. Bostain, GasTerra2.0 
 10. Williams, DeFriesland1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Marcel AARTS
  Eiffel Towers
  (213-C-83)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Aarts, Eiffel T.1.4 
 2. Hairston, BS Weert1.3 
 3. Blue, Giants1.2 
 4. Hilliman, Rotterdam1.0 
 5. McDermott, Magixx1.0 
 6. Hulzebos, Landstede0.9 
 7. Bekkering, ZZ Le.0.9 
 8. Hamm, BS Weert0.8 
 9. Mullery, Landstede0.8 
 10. Smith, Eiffel Towers0.8 


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


Standings - A Division
A Division Standings
 1. Szolnok 19-3 
 2. Albacomp 19-3 
 3. Atomeromu 16-6 
 4. Kormend 15-7 
 5. Kecskemeti 13-9 
 6. ZTE KK 13-9 
 7. Falco-Szova 12-10 
 8. PVSK Pannon 11-11 
 9. Soproni 11-11 
 10. Szedeak 9-13 
 11. Marso-Vagep 8-14 
 12. Kaposvari 6-16 
 13. FS Debrecen 1-21 
 14. Salgotarjani 1-21 


A Division Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Robert JARVIS
  Soproni
  (180-G-87)
  Avg: 25
 1. Jarvis, Salgotarjani25.0 
 2. Doyne, Falco-Szova23.6 
 3. El-Amin, PVSK P.21.5 
 4. Bell, Kormend21.2 
 5. Marshall, Marso-Va.20.8 
 6. Townes, Soproni20.0 
 7. Wilson, Kaposvari19.6 
 8. Rubin, Szedeak19.0 
 9. Mekongo, FS Debre.18.8 
 10. Cunningham, Kapos.18.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darian TOWNES
  Soproni
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Townes, Soproni11.5 
 2. Sales, Atomeromu11.3 
 3. Jones, Albacomp9.7 
 4. Werner, Kaposvari9.1 
 5. Egemonye, PVSK P.9.1 
 6. Gosa, Falco-Szova8.9 
 7. Bader, Szolnok8.9 
 8. Bell, Kormend8.6 
 9. Szabo, Soproni8.4 
 10. McKenzie, Szedeak8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Lorenzo WILLIAMS
  Khimik
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Williams, ZTE K.7.3 
 2. Savic, Marso-Vagep6.5 
 3. Kelley, Soproni6.3 
 4. Trotter, Szolnok6.3 
 5. Kalman, Falco-Sz.6.1 
 6. Simon, Albacomp5.8 
 7. Moore, Kormend5.4 
 8. Glavinic, PVSK P.5.2 
 9. Rodgers, Salgotar.5.1 
 10. LaGrange, Kecsk.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Brane SAVIC
  Marso-Vagep
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Savic, Marso-Vagep3.5 
 2. Hanga, Albacomp3.1 
 3. Marshall, Marso-Va.2.9 
 4. Czigler, Marso-Va.2.6 
 5. Trotter, Szolnok2.6 
 6. Williams, ZTE K.2.5 
 7. Kaman, ZTE K.2.4 
 8. Townes, Soproni2.3 
 9. Singletary, FS Debre.2.3 
 10. Werner, Kaposvari2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ivory CLARK
  Szolnok
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Clark, Szolnok2.5 
 2. Townes, Soproni2.0 
 3. McKenzie, Szedeak1.5 
 4. Egemonye, PVSK P.1.2 
 5. Aliakseyeu, Falco-Sz.1.1 
 6. Keller, Albacomp1.0 
 7. Czigler, Marso-Va.1.0 
 8. Langford, FS Debre.0.9 
 9. Sales, Atomeromu0.8 
 10. Orsulic, Kecskemeti0.8 


*****************************************************
  IBL   


Harker named Energy coach - by Eurobasket News
Skouson Harker (6'9''-F-77, college: Oregon) has been benched indefinitely, and he couldnt be happier.

The former Edmonton Energy player is moving from the court to the sidelines, where he will be the squads new head coach for the upcoming season, taking over the role held by his former coach, Paul Sir.

'After our last game last year, coach Paul Sir mentioned that we won't remember the wins and we wont remember the losses, but we will remember the relationships. So that's kind of why Im here, the relationships that weve formed, they've meant a lot to me.'

Harker, 34, even passed up an offer to play in Australia two weeks ago to focus on his coaching career, which began in 2007 as a player/coach in the British Basketball League.

The culture that has been created in Edmonton is a winning culture: 31-10 over the last two years, Harker said.

As good as the Energys track record has been in the IBL, Skousons biggest challenge likely wont be what goes on in the games, rather how many seats are filled to watch them at home.

Its a challenge the players gladly accept, as well, knowing they will be required to put an exciting product on the floor.

Im really hoping that the local people of Edmonton will come out and support this team. I really dont see why we shouldnt have a sell-out house every game, said Energy player and local product J.R. Patrick. We always go toward every other local team, every other semi-pro team from the Eskimos to the Drillers to the Capitals, so I really dont see why our basketball team here in Edmonton wouldnt flourish. Basketball is the biggest its ever been in Canada. Im really hoping that the fan base will be as great as its ever been.

Courtesy of www.edmontonsun.com

Patrick returns for Energy - by Eurobasket News
Patrick J.R. (6'4''-G-81, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Santa Clara) used to think people from China were all short.

Then he stepped onto one of their basketball courts.

I saw a guy there that was seven-foot-seven when I was down there. Unbelievable, said the six-foot-four, 212-pound alumni of Eastglen high school. Everyone says that a lot of Chinese people are really short. The average people, yes, but as far as the athletes, no.

After spending last season playing halfway around the world, the IBL all-star has returned to the Edmonton Energy, signing on alongside Blain LaBranch and self-proclaimed northside street legend Andrew Parker on Thursday.

And Patrick said hes all the better for his travels.

It was awesome, China was great, said Patrick, who was one of 250 players trying out at a draft camp, where he ended up being the only Canadian among the top-40 North Americans.

He was picked 14th in the China-NBL draft by Henan Jiyuan Steel and Iron, in the Hunan province.

I was extremely happy for that, had a great camp, said Patrick. It was a great experience.

One that went beyond basketball.

Food, culture shock, some of the most loyal people Ive ever met my entire life, Patrick said. They would do anything for you.

But there is one crew that holds Patricks loyalty above all else: his family back home in Edmonton.

The main thing is I have my family. I have my daughter who was just born, shes six months (old) next month, and my son and my girlfriend, Patrick said. Its good just to be at home right now.

And the Edmonton Energys back again. Im so excited to be able to play in front of family and friends again.

And the Energy is happy to have him back, too. Although, they did all right in his absence last season, making playoffs for the second year in a row before financial restrictions cut their post-season short before it could even begin.

I was talking to Andrew back and forth when I was in China, Patrick said. He was letting me know how the team was doing and how everything was going. It was good to hear that even though I had left, they were still able to pick up and they didnt miss a beat.

Now that hes back, the Energy hope to beat any opponent that gets in their way. But its not the same squad Patrick left, considering former head coach Paul Sir resigned after having his team pulled from playoffs last season.

Coach Paul Sir, he was a great guy, Patrick said. I respect him as a man, I respect him as a head coach. Personally, he has been one of the most influential people Ive ever met as far as my basketball career goes. I respect him deeply.

Instead, Patrick will play for former Energy forward Skouson Harker, who was named the teams new head coach Thursday.

I was supposed to play with him about five years ago when he was coaching in England, said Patrick. Im really excited to see how that works now, just because he has the basketball background and the knowledge.

As far as his skill level and his coaching ability, he is definitely the right man for the job.

Courtesy of www.edmontonsun.com

*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


Brenton Birmingham moves to Njardvik - by Eurobasket News
Brenton Birmingham (195-G-72, college: Manhattan) changed the team. The 38-year-old guard joined Njardvik. The player has already debuted for his new team. He tallied 14 points in a 96:84 win over Tindastoll. Brenton Birmingham started the season in Grindavik. He notched 12.3 points, 3.9 assists and 3.7 rebounds per game. Brenton Birmingham first arrived to Iceland back in 1998 and his first team was Njardvik. The guard also had stints in Finland, France, England. He is playing in Iceland since 2004. Brenton Birmingham was named Eurobasket.com All-Icelandic League Defensive Player of the Year in 2009.


Stats Leaders (Men)
Points Per Game
 Thomas SANDERS
  Keflavik
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 24.5
 1. Sanders, Keflavik24.5 
 2. Walker, KR23.3 
 3. Trifunovic, Keflavik23.0 
 4. Springer, Fjolnir22.7 
 5. Bartolotta, IR22.5 
 6. Inge, Haukar22.2 
 7. Biedler, IR21.7 
 8. Dabney, Hamar21.1 
 9. Sovic, IR21.0 
 10. Smith, Njardvik20.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gerald ROBINSON
  Haukar
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.6
 1. Robinson, Haukar13.6 
 2. Biedler, IR12.7 
 3. Pettinella, Grindavik11.2 
 4. Ermolinskij, KR10.4 
 5. Trifunovic, Keflavik10.3 
 6. Fain, Tindastoll10.1 
 7. Springer, Fjolnir10.0 
 8. Stywall, Fjolnir9.8 
 9. Jonsson, Snaefell9.4 
 10. Amoroso, Snaefell9.2 
Assists Per Game
 Aegir STEINARSSON
  Fjolnir
  (182-G-91)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Steinarsson, Fjolnir8.7 
 2. Ermolinskij, KR7.6 
 3. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.7.4 
 4. Burton, Snaefell6.9 
 5. Shouse, Stjarnan5.7 
 6. Haraldsson, Haukar5.6 
 7. Arnarson, Hamar5.3 
 8. Schoen, KFI5.2 
 9. Inge, Haukar5.1 
 10. Cunningham, Tinda.4.9 
Steals Per Game
 Semaj INGE
  Haukar
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Inge, Haukar3.2 
 2. Schoen, KFI3.0 
 3. Dabney, Hamar2.9 
 4. Fain, Tindastoll2.9 
 5. Biedler, IR2.6 
 6. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.2.5 
 7. Kitanovic, Tindastoll2.5 
 8. Moore, Njardvik2.3 
 9. Steinarsson, Fjolnir2.3 
 10. Arnarson, Hamar2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Christopher SMITH
  Svit
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Smith, Njardvik3.2 
 2. Nathanaelsso., Ham.2.5 
 3. Biedler, IR1.8 
 4. Fain, Tindastoll1.6 
 5. Inge, Haukar1.5 
 6. Pettinella, Grindavik1.4 
 7. Lindmets, Stjarnan1.4 
 8. Savarsson, Grind.1.4 
 9. Thorsteinsso., Kefla.1.3 
 10. Magnusson, KR1.2 


Express L. Round 22: KR defeats leader Snaefell - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in Express L. just ended. Host teams show no mercy winning all games.

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Snaefell (17-5) in Reykjavik on Thursday night. Visitors were rolled over by KR (16-6) 116-93. The game without a history. KR led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Snaefell's 32 and made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. KR forced 19 Snaefell turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Walker (186-86, college: Colorado St., agency: 011 Sports) who helped to win the game recording 27 points (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). The other American import center Finnur Magnusson (206, college: Catawba) contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) replied with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for Snaefell. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. KR moved-up to second place. Defending champion Snaefell kept top position with five games lost.
Very important is a road loss of Grindavik (15-7) against Keflavik (16-6) on Thursday night. Visiting Grindavik was defeated by Keflavik in Keflavik 86-71. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Grindavik. It was a key game for the third position in the league. The former international center Gunnar Thorsteinsson (204-88) scored 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Magnus Gunnarsson chipped in 17 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists during the contest. At the losing side guard Olafur Olafsson (190-90) responded with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Grindavik's coach Helgi Jonas Gudfinnsson rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Keflavik have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to the third place. Grindavik at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between IR (10-12) and Fjolnir (8-14), which took place in Fjolnir. Higher ranked IR lost to tenth ranked Fjolnir in a road game 92-96 on Thursday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of IR. Brandon Brown notched 32 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort. Even a double-double of 23 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists by Kelly Biedler did not help to save the game for IR. IR's coach Gunnar Sverrison tried various players' combinations and tested in total seventeen players in this game, but that didn't help. Fjolnir moved-up to ninth place. Loser IR remained in the sixth position with 12 games lost.
Another upset was a game between Stjarnan (12-10) and Hamar (7-14), which took place in Hamar. Higher ranked Stjarnan lost to eleventh ranked Hamar in a road game 65-74. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Stjarnan. Darri Hilmarsson fired 22 points and 4 steals for the winners. Hamar clinched the tenth place. Stjarnan at the other side remained in the fifth position with ten games lost.

In the last two games of round 22 bottom-ranked KFI was smashed by Haukar on the road 88-68. Njardvik won against Tindastoll on its own court 96-84.

Keflavik - Grindavik 86-71

Very important is a road loss of Grindavik (15-7) against Keflavik (16-6) on Thursday night. Visiting Grindavik was defeated by Keflavik in Keflavik 86-71. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Grindavik. The game was mostly controlled by Keflavik. Grindavik was better in fourth quarter 23-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Keflavik players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. The former international center Gunnar Thorsteinsson (204-88) scored 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international guard Magnus Gunnarsson (186-81) chipped in 17 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists during the contest. Four Keflavik players scored in double figures. At the losing side guard Olafur Olafsson (190-90) responded with 15 points and 9 rebounds and the former international swingman Pall Axel Vilbergsson (197-78) scored 12 points and 9 rebounds. Grindavik's coach Helgi Jonas Gudfinnsson rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Keflavik have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to the third place. Grindavik at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost.
Top scorers:
Keflavik: G.Thorsteinsson 25+8reb+1ast, M.Gunnarsson 17+7reb+6ast, H.Halldorsson 13+7reb+1ast, A.Vilhjalmsson 12+6reb+3ast, A.Ciric 9+4reb+2ast, G.Einarsson 8+3reb+3ast
Grindavik: O.Olafsson 15+9reb+3ast, A.Vilbergsson 12, P.Axel Vilbergsson 12+9reb+1ast, M.Soskic 10+4reb+1ast, H.Einarsson 8+1reb+1ast, O.Savarsson 7+6reb
gschID: 107908


Fjolnir - IR 96-92

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between IR (10-12) and Fjolnir (8-14), which took place in Fjolnir. Higher ranked IR lost to tenth ranked Fjolnir in a road game 92-96 on Thursday. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of IR. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 29-21 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Fjolnir dominated down low during the game scoring 76 of its points in the paint compared to IR's 54. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. American forward Brandon Brown (201-85, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) notched 32 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and the former international forward Ingvaldur Hafsteinsson (200-81) supported him with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Brown is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five Fjolnir players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 23 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists by American forward Kelly Biedler (196-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's) did not help to save the game for IR. Serbian-Canadian forward Nemanja Sovic (198-77, college: Pfeiffer) added 23 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. IR's coach Gunnar Sverrison tried various players' combinations and tested in total seventeen players in this game, but that didn't help. Fjolnir moved-up to ninth place. Loser IR remained in the sixth position with 12 games lost.
Top scorers:
Fjolnir: B.Brown 32+9reb, I.Hafsteinsson 17+8reb+3ast, T.Tomasson 15+1reb+7ast, J.Sverrisson 13+5reb+2ast, A.Steinarsson 12+9reb+7ast, H.Vilhjalmsson 4+2reb+1ast
IR: K.Biedler 23+17reb+4ast, N.Sovic 23+7reb+3ast, J.Bartolotta 19+3reb+2ast, S.Claesson 9+5reb+3ast, N.Dungal 8+2reb+3ast, E.Onundarson 8+1ast
gschID: 107909


KR - Snaefell 116-93

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Snaefell (17-5) in Reykjavik on Thursday night. Visitors were rolled over by KR (16-6) 116-93. The game without a history. KR led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Snaefell's 32 and made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. KR forced 19 Snaefell turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Walker (186-86, college: Colorado St., agency: 011 Sports) who helped to win the game recording 27 points (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). The other American import center Finnur Magnusson (206, college: Catawba) contributed with 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) replied with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and American-Italian forward Ryan Amoroso (203-85, college: San Diego St.) added 12 points and 5 assists (made all of his eight free throws) in the effort for Snaefell. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. KR moved-up to second place. Defending champion Snaefell kept top position with five games lost.
Top scorers:
KR: M.Walker 27+3ast, F.Magnusson 18+7reb+2ast, P.Ermolinskij 15+5reb+4ast, A.Angantynsson 14+3reb, H.Magnusson 13+2reb+2ast, B.Bjoernsson 11+5reb+6ast
Snaefell: P.Sigurgeirsson 15+5reb, J.Olafur Jonsson 14+6reb+4ast, S.Burton 13+4reb+2ast, Z.Bojovic 12+3reb, R.Amoroso 12+3reb+5ast, E.Johannsson 11+3reb+2ast
gschID: 107910


Hamar - Stjarnan 74-65

Another upset was a game between Stjarnan (12-10) and Hamar (7-14), which took place in Hamar. Higher ranked Stjarnan lost to eleventh ranked Hamar in a road game 65-74. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Stjarnan. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 27-17. But Stjarnan won second period 25-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Hamar forced 24 Stjarnan turnovers. Swingman Darri Hilmarsson (191-87) fired 22 points and 4 steals for the winners. Guard Ellert Arnarson (180-87) chipped in 16 points, 9 assists and 6 steals. Four Hamar players scored in double figures. American-Estonian forward Renato Lindmets (198-84, college: Westfield St., agency: Tank Sports) produced 12 points and 6 rebounds and the former international power forward Fannar Helgason (202-84) added 11 points respectively for lost side. Hamar clinched the tenth place. Stjarnan at the other side remained in the fifth position with ten games lost.
Top scorers:
Hamar: D.Hilmarsson 22+4reb+1ast, E.Arnarson 16+1reb+9ast, S.Palsson 14+6reb+1ast, S.Thorvaldsson 12+5reb, B.Larusson 5+7reb, S.Halldorsson 3+3ast
Stjarnan: R.Lindmets 12+6reb+3ast, F.Helgason 11+4reb+1ast, K.Kjartansson 11+1reb, A.Ingvason 8+2reb+2ast, G.Larusson 6+2reb+2ast, J.Shouse 6+4reb+2ast
gschID: 107911


Haukar - KFI 88-68

No shocking result in a game when eighth ranked Haukar (9-13) crushed bottom-ranked KFI (4-17) in Hafnarfjordur 88-68. Haukar forced 20 KFI turnovers and outrebounded them 48-37 including 21 on the offensive glass. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. Dutch-American forward Gerald Robinson (204-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) fired a double-double by scoring 25 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Center Orn Siguraarson (202-90) chipped in 20 points and 9 rebounds. FYR Macedonian guard Pance Ilievski (186-81) produced 26 points and forward Richard McNutt (203-86, college: Mount Aloysius, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 13 points and 10 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Newly promoted Haukar finished the regular season in the eighth position with 9-13 record and made it into playoffs. KFI at the other side, also newcomer in the league, remained at the bottom place with 17 games lost.
Top scorers:
Haukar: G.Robinson 25+15reb+2ast, O.Siguraarson 20+9reb+2ast, S.Inge 15+10reb+1ast, S.Einarsson 8+2reb+2ast, E.Barja 6+3reb, S.Sveinsson 5+4reb+2ast
KFI: P.Ilievski 26+2reb+2ast, R.McNutt 13+10reb+1ast, C.Josey 9+8reb+1ast, D.Milosevic 8+6reb, I.Bjarni Viktorsson 5+2reb, N.Knezevic 4+4reb+1ast
gschID: 107912


Njardvik - Tindastoll 96-84

Rather expected game when 9th ranked Tindastoll (7-15) lost on the road to seventh ranked Njardvik (10-12) 96-84. The game was mostly controlled by Njardvik. Tindastoll was better in fourth quarter 21-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 19-of-25 charity shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Njardvik players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. American-German swingman Jonathan Moore (203-82, college: N.C.Central, agency: 540 Sports) fired 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Serbian guard Nenad Tomasevic (192-84) chipped in 15 points. American forward Hayward Fain (196, college: St.Augustine, agency: Strategic Sports) produced a double-double by scoring 23 points and 13 rebounds and American-Dutch guard Sean Cunningham (188-86, college: Cal-Riverside, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for lost side. Five Njardvik and four Tindastoll players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Njardvik ended the regular season in the sixth place. Tindastoll lost seventh consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost.
Top scorers:
Njardvik: G.Jonsson 18+1reb, J.Moore 16+7reb+4ast, N.Tomasevic 15+3reb+2ast, B.Birmingham 14+1reb+3ast, J.Alafsson 11+2reb+4ast, G.Watson 9+8ast
Tindastoll: H.Fain 23+13reb+3ast, S.Cunningham 18+6reb+5ast, F.Hreinsson 15+2reb+1ast, S.Birgisson 11+4reb+1ast, D.Kitanovic 7+3reb, P.Jonsson 5+1reb
gschID: 107907




Standings - Iceland Express League
Express L. Standings
 1. Snaefell 17-5 
 2. KR 16-6 
 3. Keflavik 16-6 
 4. Grindavik 15-7 
 5. Stjarnan 12-10 
 6. IR 10-12 
 7. Njardvik 10-12 
 8. Haukar 9-13 
 9. Fjolnir 8-14 
 10. Hamar 7-14 
 11. Tindastoll 7-15 
 12. KFI 4-17 


*****************************************************
  INDIA   


IOB plays the inaugural match at IOB-CDBA Level 1 league - by M. Rajalingam
The mighty team IOB Chennai plays the inaugural match against State Police in the IOB-CDBA Level 1 league to be held at Chennai. The league is organized by Chennai District Basketball Association and is being sponsored by IOB.

The city basketball league is finally set to start off, today evening after a gap of nearly two decades, thanks to the support of IOB, the league's sponsors.

R.Ilango, Secretary, Tamil Nadu Basketball Association, will be inaugurating the league.

The schedule for the first day of the league is:

IOB v State Police (5.30 p.m.)

ICF v State Bank (7 p.m.)

The participating teams teams for Ponnappa Nadar Trophy are:

Level I: BSNL, Customs, Gopalapuram BC, ICF, Indian Bank, IOB, Sathyabama BBC, Southern Railway, State Bank and TN State Police.

Level II: Anna Nagar BBC, Chennai Port, Indiana BBC, Mayor Radhakrishnan BBC, Metropolitan Transport, Raghavendra BBC, Southern Railway Cooperative Society, Sports Hostel of Excellence, St. Peter's BBC and TNEB .


Kerala Basketball Association to conduct a basketball clinic - by M. Rajalingam
The Kerala Basketball Association has came up with an idea to organize a basketball clinic. The clinic will be focusing on the changes in the rules in the game. It's a good news to see such clinics being organized to impart awareness to the professionals in the game. Other organizations should also organize similar workshops and clinics to impart knowledge and awareness to the professionals such as players, referees and coaches.

The clinic which is organized by The Kerala Basketball Association along with YMCA, Thiruvalla will be on March 12.

Former international referee Joseph John will discuss the new rules in basketball at the clinic.

The clinic is open to all referees, players and officials.

It is a nice idea by the association. that the clinic is organized by an International basketball referee. This will provide the clinic's participants to get a first hand knowledge ad insight from the person who has got an international exposure.

Kudos to Kerala Basketball Association, for your plans in bringing up more qualified and talented professionals in the game.

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


Maccabi president Mizrahi awarded Israel Prize - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv president Shimon Mizrahi was named among the 2011 recipients of the Israel Prize, the country's most prestigious award given annually on Israel's Independence Day. Israel's Minister of Education Gideon Saar announced Mizrahi as one of this year's winners on Wednesday. The committee that selected Mizrahi emphasized his bringing new standards to management in Israeli sports and bringing numerous prestigious achievements to Israeli basketball and sports as a whole. Mizrahi, 71, is the seventh person to receive the Israel Prize in the field of sports and becomes the third person affiliated with Maccabi Tel Avivs basketball club top win the Israel Prize, joining former Euroleague champ Tal Brody (1979) and former Maccabi coach Ralph Klein (2006). Mizrahi has served as Maccabi president since 1969 and been a part of the club winning five European titles.

'I am excited and moved, Mizrahi said after learning of the honor. This is really a prize for Maccabi Tel Aviv as a whole. I have never done my work to receive a prize, but it brings joy to see that you are appreciated. It gives me energy to continue for many more years.'

Courtesy of Euroleague

Stats Leaders - National League
Points Per Game
 Brian ASBURY
  Hapoel T-A
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 26.9
 1. Asbury, Hapoel T-A26.9 
 2. Moragne, Hapoel B.24.3 
 3. Hall, Beer Yaakov24.2 
 4. Miller, Megido/Y.22.9 
 5. Clemente, Megido.22.6 
 6. Delaney, Maccabi .21.8 
 7. Gomez, Beer Yaakov21.6 
 8. Young, Hod Hasharon21.3 
 9. Timberlake, Elitzu.21.1 
 10. Fisher, Ironi R.21.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason JOHNSON
  Ironi Nahariya
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Johnson, Ironi N.12.6 
 2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.11.3 
 3. Brandy, Hod H.10.5 
 4. Clemente, Megido.10.4 
 5. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.9.8 
 6. Moragne, Hapoel B.9.2 
 7. Strong, Hapoel T.9.0 
 8. McFarlin, Lev H.9.0 
 9. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne8.9 
 10. Utter, Hapoel T-A8.9 
Assists Per Game
 Ofir FARHI
  Beer Yaakov
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Farhi, Beer Yaakov6.7 
 2. Lahat, Hapoel T-A6.6 
 3. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula6.2 
 4. Bet-Yosef, Beer Y.6.1 
 5. Dobie, Lev Hasharon5.9 
 6. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.5.6 
 7. Shifman, Hapoel Beeri4.8 
 8. Timor, Hapoel Tivon4.7 
 9. Fisher, Ironi R.4.5 
 10. Davidi, Elitzur Ramla4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Nate MILLER
  Maccabi T-A
  (193-F-87)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Miller, Megido/Y.2.9 
 2. Bochman, Beer Y.2.8 
 3. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula2.7 
 4. Delaney, Maccabi .2.7 
 5. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.2.3 
 6. Markson, Hapoel A.2.2 
 7. Hofman, Elitzur .2.1 
 8. Young, Hod Hasharon2.0 
 9. Stevens, Hapoel T.1.9 
 10. Fisher, Ironi R.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Ben STRONG
  Hapoel Tivon
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Strong, Hapoel T.2.4 
 2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.2.1 
 3. Utter, Hapoel T-A2.0 
 4. Colwell, Ironi R.1.9 
 5. Hugee, Hapoel Afula1.6 
 6. Aidan, Hapoel Beeri1.6 
 7. Johnson, Ironi N.1.5 
 8. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne1.4 
 9. Wade, Lev Hasharon1.4 
 10. Brandy, Hod H.1.3 


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


Japan Times: Tyler raising his game as season progresses - by John Scribe

By ED ODEVEN
Staff writer Japan Times

Jeremy Tyler, still a few months shy of his 20th birthday, is no stranger to NBA talent evaluators. Though he's playing halfway around the world, the Tokyo Apache's highly touted 210-cm prospect is being closely watched.

'I've had about five teams contact me for video, but I know his agent has been speaking with, and providing video for many more,' Apache general manager Conor Neu told The Japan Times a few hours after the team's double-overtime loss on Wednesday against the Akita Northern Happinets.

In other words, Tokyo's game highlights, specifically Tyler's, have been seen in NBA team offices, home living rooms and on more than a few laptop computer media players.

NBAdraft.net has come up with its 2011 mock draft, and in its latest projections on Wednesday it has Tyler to be the 33rd pick, taken by the Sacramento Kings. A few days earlier, he was projected as the No. 35 pick to the Toronto Raptors, who are run by Bryan Colangelo, son of longtime Phoenix Suns executive Jerry Colangelo, the architect of Team USA's recent national team.

Apache coach Bob Hill said talent alone isn't the only factor in the way players are drafted nowadays.

'We've started drafting players on potential,' he said. 'No 19-year-old is going to go into the NBA and help you win. It's not going to happen. As great as LeBron James and Kobe Bryant were (coming out of high school) . . . you can help a team win but you are not going to go in and impact a team.

'So now we are drafting these young ones and the D-League (NBA Development League) is a big part of it.'

'His progress has been solid. He's gotten a lot better lately and we'll get back to the States and get him ready for the draft.'

Tyler has come off the bench in 32 games he's played. He's averaging 15.6 minutes per game, 9.4 points and 6.2 rebounds.

If his minutes were doubled, resembling those of a typical starter's, he's approaching All-Star-caliber statistics. Case in point: He had 12 points, seven rebounds and two assists in 19 minutes, 32 seconds on Wednesday.

In recent weeks, Tyler has shown more assertiveness on the offensive end. He has scored in double-digits in nine of the past 11 games (with a season-high 27 on Nov. 7). In limited minutes, he's also had six games with 10 or more rebounds.

'The draft process has changed. For a long time, the pre-draft camp that we held in Chicago was a significant part of the draft,' said Hill, the former Knicks, Pacers, SuperSonics and Spurs coach. 'That's all changed.

'The most important aspect of pre-draft time is the individual visits that the players have to each team, and that's like a three-week period.'

These visits include on-court workouts, psychological tests, weight-lifting and 'a little bit of everything,' he added.

'That's become a very, very important part of this and I think that's where Jeremy's got to be ready when he gets back (after the bj-league season) to go in and perform.'

Nobody said this time-consuming process will be easy for the San Diego native, but it's been carefully calculated since he opted to work with Hill and put his disappointing, shortened first pro season in Israel behind him.

'I've been working with him since July so it's been a long, long, long experience,' Hill said, reflecting on Tyler's development as a player. 'He has made significant progress, I would say, in the last month, maybe, month and a half.'

*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


JPL Round 5 - by Omar Shafaamri
Last year's Champions ASU continues their winning series , Wehdat was their latest Victim and easily 97-51 . Orthodoxi won in the last seconds over JPL's Powerhorse Arena 65-60 despite Arena's lead in the first 3 quarters , Ghazi Naber (178-G-76) as usual was the key player of Arena .

Riyadi-Aramex destroyed College Club 98-63 while on Thursday Kofer Yoba clinched their 1st win over Jlail (0W) 73-52 , both teams are at the bottom of League .

11.03.2011
Orthodoxi 65-60 Arena
ASU 97-51 Wehdat
Riyadi 98-63 College

10.03.2011
Kofer Yoba 73-52 Jalil

Standings
1-ASU (10 Points)
2-Riyadi (9 Points)
3-Arena (9 Points)
4-Orthodoxi (8 Points)
5-Wehdat (8 Points)
6-College (7 Points)
7-Kofer Yoba (6 Points)
8-Jalil (5 Points)

*****************************************************
  KENYA   


Sports Association Partners With CBA to Lift Standards of the Game - by Eurobasket News
Coast Secondary Schools Sports Association (CSSSA) has partnered with Coast Basketball Association in an effort to improve the standard of the game in the region. CSSSA chairman Rodgers Mwafungo yesterday said they have decided to engage CBA during the ongoing Term One games to ensure quality basketball is maintained in schools. 'We have partnered with CBA whom we have been working with for years now, because we need to present teams that are not only upto the challenge but also compliant to the rules of the game,' he said. CBA secretary Jimnah Kimani said CSSSA had requested them to provide 15 referees for Mombasa games that will bring together secondary schools from Mvita and Kisauni districts starting today.

Kimani said there was need for five referees at the Mombasa Polytechnic University College, Khamis Boys and Mombasa Baptist High schools which will host the basketball events. 'We have accepted the deal with CSSSA to provide officials for volleyball because it ensures that CBA is in contact with the budding basket-ball players wherever they are. It is a great honour ' said Kimani.He said the boys category will bring on board Khamis, Sheikh Khalifa, Serani, Brainsworth, Allidina and Sacred Heart in pool 'A' while Pool 'B' will feature Shimo la Tewa, Mombasa Baptist, Aga Khan, Jesus Celebration Centre High schools.

Courtesy of: Nairobi Star



*****************************************************
  KOSOVO   


Peja wins the postponed match - by Luan Morina
Squad of Peja has won previously postponed match against Mitrovica. Match scheduled to be played in 17th day of BKT Super league was won by huge margin, 122:42 by Peja that now is third in the standings with 32 points. Mitrovica remains in the last position with only 18 points. This was Peja's thirteenth win in this edition of BKT Super League. Next week Peja travels to Mitrovica to play Bambi, while Mitrovica travels to Prizren, where will meet Bashkimi.


Bambi gets new players - by Luan Morina
Bambi has signed two new players this Thursday. The squad has signed Nemanja Dasic and Milos Pavlovic. Dasic, 19years old guard comes from Serbian squad, Borac Cacak, while Milos Pavlovic comes from Serbia too, but is declared as foreign player. Bambi is trying to reinforce their squad before this weekend match against Peja. The match will be played on Sunday, 17:00 CET. Bambi currently holds the second place in the standings, while Peja is third.


Standings - Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
 1. Sigal Prishtina 18-1 
 2. Bambi 15-3 
 3. Peja 15-4 
 4. Trepca 10-8 
 5. K.EuroSporti 6-13 
 6. Kosova 6-13 
 7. Bashkimi 5-14 
 8. Mitrovica 0-19 


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


Ventspils take lead against TU/Rock - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils - TU/Rock 84:77

Ventspils surged ahead in the BBL quarterfinal series against TU/Rock. Arturs Berzins (204-C-88, agency: FCM) scored 16 points to propel the Latvian team to the opening win. Game 2 is scheduled for March 17.
TU/Rock got to the better start in the game. They stormed to a 14:6 lead midway through the opening term. The Estonian side earned a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. Ventspils scored four points in a row to spur in front at the beginning of the second quarter. The lead changed hands for several times before Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) and Doronin established a 44:40 halftime advantage for the visitors. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) posted a 48:42 lead early in the third term. The hosts reacted with 7 consecutive points to narrow the deficit. Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83, college: Connecticut) and Gulbis helped Ventspils to a 58:57 lead after three quarters. Arturs Berzins allowed Ventspils open a 6-point lead midway through the fourth term. Rain Veideman and Sten-Timmu Sokk kept TU/Rock within striking distance before Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) capped regulation with 5 points in a row and sealed the winning outcome.
Oritseweyinmi Efejuku (196-G-86, college: Providence), Rashad Anderson and Janis Strelnieks provided 10 points each for the home team. Rain Veideman answered with 15 points for TU/Rock. Sten-Timmu Sokk had 14 points and 5 assists in defeat.

Ventspils: Arturs Berzins 16, Oritseweyinmi Efejuku 10, Rashad Anderson 10, Janis Strelnieks 10
TU/Rock: Rain Veideman 15, Sten-Timmu Sokk 14


*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Standings - Division A
Div.A Standings
 1. Al Riyadi 20-3 
 2. Champville 19-4 
 3. Moutahed 14-9 
 4. Sagesse 14-9 
 5. Anibal 11-12 
 6. Hoops 8-15 
 7. Byblos 6-17 
 8. Antranik 6-17 
 9. Chabab 2-14 


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Fadi KHATIB
  Champville
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 27
 1. Khatib, Champville27.0 
 2. Warner, Byblos25.8 
 3. Johnson, Moutahed22.5 
 4. Bangura, Anibal22.4 
 5. Johnson, Al Riyadi22.3 
 6. Cage, Hoops21.9 
 7. Shannon, Anibal20.9 
 8. Youngblood, Champ.20.7 
 9. Battles, Antranik20.2 
 10. Dawson, Chabab20.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  Al Riyadi
  (218-C-78)
  Avg: 15.1
 1. Woods, Al Riyadi15.1 
 2. Warner, Byblos13.1 
 3. Dawson, Chabab12.5 
 4. Cox, Champville12.5 
 5. Shannon, Anibal11.7 
 6. Byrd, Hoops11.3 
 7. Payne, Moutahed11.2 
 8. Watkins, Sagesse11.1 
 9. Thompson, Sagesse11.1 
 10. Battles, Antranik10.7 
Assists Per Game
 Willie BANNISTER
  Antranik
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 7
 1. Bannister, Antranik7.0 
 2. Johnson, Moutahed6.6 
 3. Mason, Byblos6.6 
 4. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi5.8 
 5. Akl, Anibal5.8 
 6. Clemons, Chabab4.9 
 7. Barada, Byblos4.6 
 8. Fahed, Sagesse4.1 
 9. Khatib, Champville3.9 
 10. Warner, Byblos3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Enique CLEMONS
  Darussafaka
  (180-G-80)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Clemons, Chabab3.2 
 2. Johnson, Moutahed2.5 
 3. Mason, Byblos2.5 
 4. Youngblood, Champ.2.5 
 5. Bangura, Anibal2.4 
 6. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi2.4 
 7. Johnson, Al Riyadi2.4 
 8. Bannister, Antranik2.3 
 9. Roustom, Moutahed2.0 
 10. Byrd, Hoops2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Darnell COX
  Champville
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Cox, Champville3.2 
 2. Woods, Al Riyadi2.6 
 3. Thompson, Sagesse1.8 
 4. Watkins, Sagesse1.5 
 5. Hamdar, Hoops1.4 
 6. Kanaan, Antranik1.3 
 7. Byrd, Hoops1.3 
 8. Shannon, Anibal1.2 
 9. Warner, Byblos1.2 
 10. Payne, Moutahed1.0 


*****************************************************
  LIBYA   


Eurobasket had the pleasure of speaking with Jimmy Williams - by Ozell Wells
Eurobasket had the pleasure of speaking with Jimmy Williams (196-G-86, college: Alders.-Broad.), who recently escaped the turmoil in Libya as the streets have become chaotic and the league had been cancelled. Featured on the news in his native Chicago, USA, he took the time to share with us. The Libyan Leagues leading scorer at a stellar 27 points per game, he shares his thoughts on the league and more importantly on the area as a whole in light of current situation.


EU: Jimmy, we are happy that you made it back safely. What can u tell us about the experience first off.
JW:First off i want to thank coach wells, and eurobasket for this interview. Im just blessed i made it home safe, it was a journey first me and my roomate, came together and decided to leave libya, because we seen the situation there getting worse, and we were very scared. so we took took it into our own hands to leave. so we paid a taxi driver to get us to Tunisa border. it was a long journey but we made it to tunisa safe and i brought my own ticket from tunisa to america. im happy me ane my teamate, and friends made it home safe. now im home workin hard lookin to get a new contract to stay in playing shape for the afro basket this summer.
EU: How were you received by the local community in Libya, both on and off the court?
JW:Libyan people, and community was great, on and off the court. The people treat you like family there. on the court it was a great exsperience the fans will jump down your throat if you have a bad game or if you lose a game. it was alot of pressure on me in libya to play and perform every night. which was great by it being so much pressure on me,it helped me to perform well every night, and it kept me menally focus. pressure comes with bein a pro player, so it helped me to become a better pro. overall i thought the libyan people was great, i never had any problems with the people there. They were very helpful and was always there to help when i needed it. In libya the people love sports and really support basketball and football. Thanks to the supporters i played well night in and night out, because i knew it was alot of pressure on my back and i had to get the job done.
EU: Was the area a place that you would return to? Why or why not?
JW:Of course i will return to libya after the situation calms down. Libyan basketball is on the rise and there was alot of high level imports in the league as well as high level locals. Every since the Libyan fedration allowed 2 imports on the court it really made the libyan league tough, and one of the best leagues in africa. so of course i will come back all the games are on telvelsion for the middle east region and africa region to see, so its great exposure for players and to build a name for yourself.
EU: How would you compare the level of play with Syria or Palestine,Egypt (arbic champion) the areas of your previous pro experiences?
JW:The Libyan league is a high level, and is the third best league in africa behind egypt and angola. having two imports on the court raises the level of the league. Also teams in Libya are signing high level african players. when i frist got to libya i had to prove myself i had a week tryout. I got there in september and after 2 days i played in a game, it was the al feta cup tournment, a preseason tornment in libya. I helped lead club itthad to the cup by scoring 34 points and they decided to sign me to a 1 year contract. The best thing i like about libya is that i have gain alot of exsperince, i had a chance to play in a big tournment in dubi hosted by sharjah club. I made the all tournment team against some high level middle east clubs. i posted 28 points against jordanian team asu which is one of the best clubs in the middle east. i also was the mvp of that game. i had a chance to play against egypt club sporting, ah sharjah, al shabob club ( uae) and champville club of labanon. So it was great to add to my cv.
EU: How about the Arab Club Championships in comparison also?
JW: I played in the arbic club championship last season it was a great exsperince for me i got the chance to see the level. i was playing with club ibdaa from palenstine. so it was a big challenge the team lack exsperince but those guys fought hard every game in the arbic club championship. i played 3 games there first game against moutahed (lebanon) sharjah club of uae 2 times. we lost all three games the thing that makes the arbic club championship is that each club can have three imports which rasies the compition. also there were many high level arbic players. i gain alot from playing in the arbic championship, i averaged 14.0ppg, 6.1apg, 4.0rpg . Hope i get a chance to play in the arbic championship this year.
EU: What to date, are your thoughts on the season? With you standing atop the league leaders in scoring and your Ittihad club sitting in 3rd place, do you feel that the league was cancelled for a good reason? Understanding that there was strife in the area, what is your take on the situation overall? How do u see it impacting the lives of the area players, and imports like yourself?
JW:This is my best season of pro basketball my agent julen michel adhepeau, made sure i put in hard work this summer to get me ready for this upcoming season. i had a new mind set coming into this season and that was to show that im a elite young player and im still taking steps to prove that. I came in this season with a killer instiinke. My hard work has paid off, i shot the ball very good this year hitting over 30 three point field goals in 10 games. i will countiue to work hard, i want to keep gaining respect, as one of the best guards in the afrcan region. When it comes to me bein one of the top scorers in the league, its in my nature scorering is what i do. i have always been a good scorer just lookin to get better and learn easier ways to score. which will make me a better scorer. i think the league was cancelled for good reasons. the fedration had no choice things was getting bad in libya. I think by the league bein cancelled it affected all players but this is life and this could have happend any where, so as a player you just have to move on to the next job.
EU: Now you are also a member of the Togo National Team, and set scoring record in last summer's AfricaBasket with the national side, has that given you a new outlook on basketball in the continent?
JW: There are many high level african players playing across the world. when i played with togo national team in the zone qulifiers ( 12.0ppg 6.3rpg 5.0apg). I had a chance to exsperince how high level african basketball was. its very phyiscal and tough every game is like a wrestling match, as a basketball player you have to be tough to play in africa. im just happy i was able to help lead togo national team to the afrobasket which will be a big step in my career, so im lookin forward to it. I have gained alot of respect for basketball in the african region and middle east region. what i did with togo this summer im lookin to build more confeidence and give my teamates confeidence heading into the afrobasket this summer.
EU: How did you come about signing to play in Libya of all places? What were your thoughts about it initially
JW:Well i was in togo at the time and my agent julien ahepeau told me the news african a game against nigeria. he explained to me the contract and we thought it will be a great place to play goin into my third year. Mr. juilen has made it possible for me and i trust his word if he says take it thats what im goin to do. till this day i think it was a great choice. playing in libya has really help me grow in my career.
EU: It appears that maybe the country has gotten a bad reputation for whatever reason. Is there anything that you want to say about the country and the surrounding areas, for our readers?
JW: To be honest libya is a good place, every where isnt perfect, every country hits a bad point, it could have happend any where. The readers and other players out there libya is a good place to place and get a great contract. all countries and leagues has negitives and positives.
EU: What is next for you, with so much time remaining in the season?
JW: well now since my season was cancelled, i am back home workin out lookin for new contract, i am very happy for what i did this season proving myself and building my name in libya. So since there is time left for this season im lookin to keep playing even tho its late right now im sure somthing will come threw for me. here is some high lights of me in libya just so people can get a taste of the libya league and the way i play, ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc4oB2qd-gA ) Here is my contact email also williamjimmy2003@hotmail.com or julien.adhepeau@magnosports.com.
EU: What do you think on your future prospects in light of the present situation AND with the latest edition of AfricBasket just around the corner in summer?
JW: My future is great i have been working hard, and will never stop working hard. i started off playing in a low league in palenstine. then to syria then to the arbic championship, than jordan then to libya. im proud of myself some people have to take more steps than others and im willin to do that to get to the top. im 24 years old still young. so im always staying postive who would think 2 years ago that i would be playing in the afro basket, no one but me. hard works pays off. if a person tells me im not good it helps me. i have a big chip on my shoulders.AFRObasket is just another stepping stone.
EU: Any thing to share or say to your fans back in Libya or in Togo?
JW: i want libya people to stay strong threw the situation. also to my teamates in Togo see you soon lets turn some heads.

here are williams awards and acheievments
Awards/Achievements:
Chicago H.S. Thanksgiving Tournament MVP -04
NJCAA First team All-Conference and First team All-Region -07
WVIAC Regular Season Champion -07
WVIAC Tournament Finalist -07
NCAA tournment All east regon team -08
Two time WVIAC player of the week -08
All-Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago 2nd Team -08
WVIAC Regular Season Runner-Up -08
WVIAC Tournament Winner -08
WVIAC All-Tournament Team -08
All-WVIAC Honorable Mention -08
Voted by asia basket as the best import player -09
Won the league championship -09
Palestinian PBBA Champion -09
Palestinian PBBA Champion -09 (MVP), 10
Orthodox Amman Jordan Tournament:best Scorer-1 (28.2ppg), 4.3apg, 8.4rpg-10
Arab Club Championships -10 14.0ppg, 6.1apg, 4.0rpg
Togo National Team -10
FIBA Africa Zone-3 Qualifier -10: 12.0ppg 6.3rpg 5.0apg
Libyan Olympic Al-Fateh Cup Champion -10
Sharajah Tournament UAE Single Game MVP -10
Sharajah Tournament UAE: 22.0ppg

WE AT EUROBASKET WOULD LIKE TO WISH JIMMY ALL OF THE BEST & WE LOOK TO HEAR MANY MORE GREAT THINGS FROM HIM IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. WE ALSO WISH HIS NATIONAL TEAM THE BEST OF LUCK IN THE UPCOMING AFRICABASKET TOURNAMENT STARTING THIS JULY THROUGHOUT THE CONTINENT.
BEST SWISHES JIMMY!



*****************************************************
  LIGA AMERICAS   


Latinbasket.com All-Liga Americas Awards 2011 - by Emiliano
1st Team
#s#
Federico Kammerichs
Kammerichs
Javier Martinez
Martinez
Danilo Pinnock
Pinnock
Louis Roe
Roe
Jaime Lloreda
Lloreda
#e#5

Player of the Year: Federico Kammerichs (203-F/C-80) of CB Murcia Spain
Guard of the Year: Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83) of Titanes Dominican Republic
Forward of the Year: Louis Roe (200-F-72) of Tenerife Spain
Center of the Year: Federico Kammerichs (203-F/C-80) of CB Murcia Spain
Coach of the Year: Fabio Demti of Regatas C. Argentina

1st Team
G: Javier Martinez (189-78) of Sionista Argentina
G: Danilo Pinnock (196-83) of Titanes Dominican Republic
F: Louis Roe (200-72) of Tenerife Spain
F/C: Jaime Lloreda (201-80) of Halc.Rojos Mexico
F/C: Federico Kammerichs (203-80) of CB Murcia Spain

2nd Team
G: Kyle Lamonte (191-84) of Flamengo Brazil
G: Julio Mazzaro (190-79) of River Plate Argentina
F/G: Marcelinho Machado (199-75) of Pitagoras/Minas Brazil
F: Guilherme Giovannoni (202-80) of CS Bologna Italy
F/C: Guilherme Teichmann (204-83) of Winner/ Lim. Brazil

3rd Team
G: Leandro Garcia Morales (186-80) of Cocodrilos Venezuela
G: Larry Ayuso (190-77) of Santurce Puerto Rico
F: Robinson Brandon (202-81) of Liaoning China
F/C: Guilherme Teichmann (204-83) of Winner/ Lim. Brazil
C: Daniel Santiago (216-76) of Charleroi Belgium

Honorable Mention
Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) of Atenas Argentina
Baby Araujo (211-C-80) of Paulistano Brazil
Arthur Luiz Belchior (200-G/F-82) of Unitri Brazil
Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80) of Pinheiros/Sky Brazil
Diego Lo Grippo (198-F-78) of Atenas Argentina
Julio Mazzaro (190-G-79) of River Plate Argentina
Carlos Rivera (187-G-83) of Ponce Puerto Rico
Ramzee Stanton (197-F-80) of Quilmes MP Argentina



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


NKL Round 41 recap - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Triobet Malsta (16-21) in Jonava on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by Silute (16-21) 82-78. It was a key game for the top position in Group B as both teams had the same 15-21 record before this meeting. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Triobet Malsta won third quarter 24-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Silute won last quarter 27-25. They also forced 20 Triobet Malsta turnovers. 30 personal fouls committed by Triobet Malsta helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Guard Evaldas Jurkus (190-G-84) stepped up and scored 36 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds for the winners and swingman Andrius Cizikas (197-G/F-88) chipped in 14 points and 9 assists. Guard Tadas Sebeziovas (183-85) responded with 14 points. Triobet Malsta's coach Kestutis Narusevicius tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Silute keeps a position of league leader, which they share with defeated Triobet Malsta. Silute is looking forward to face Puntukas (#7) in Anyksciai in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Triobet Malsta will play on the road against Delikatesas (#5) in Joniskis and is hoping to win this game.
Third-ranked Meresta (24-15) gave a tough game to first ranked Pieno Zvaigzdes (38-1) in Pakruojis. The visitors from Pasvalys managed to secure only three-point victory 83-80. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Meresta. Power forward Arnas Kazlauskas (204-76, agency: Court Side) nailed 23 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side and Gintautas Vileita accounted for 19 points and 6 steals. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Rimantas Endrijaitis allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Guard Liudas Radavicius (188-88) came up with 16 points for Meresta in the defeat. Pieno Zvaigzdes have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 38-1 record. Meresta at the other side keeps the third position with 15 games lost. They share it with Mazeikiai. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in Kaunas in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Meresta will play on the road against the league's second-placed Radviliskis and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Kaunas: LKKA-Atletas (#7) and Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6). Zalgiris-Sabonio was crushed at home by 19 points 57-76 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The best player for the winners was Sarunas Vingelis who scored 17 points and 7 assists. Paulius Sorokas produced 16 points and 8 rebounds for the hosts. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Priit Vene let to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. LKKA-Atletas (21-18) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Nafta Universitetas and Zalgiris-Sabonio. LKKA-Atletas will meet at home Nafta Universitetas (#7) in the next round. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against the league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys and hope to secure a win.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Erelita-KTU (14-24) against fifth ranked Akademija (13-24) on Thursday night. Visiting Erelita-KTU was defeated by Akademija in Vilnius 80-62. Janas Jurgo orchestrated the victory by scoring 27 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Akademija have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Delikatesas. Erelita-KTU at the other side keeps the third position with 24 games lost. Akademija's next round opponent will be ABRO-Universitetas (#6) in Siauliai.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Radviliskis (26-13) against eighth ranked Perlas-MRU (17-22) on Friday night. Visiting Radviliskis was crushed by Perlas-MRU in Vilnius 76-57. Evaldas Lengvinas stepped up and scored 21 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Perlas-MRU's coach used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Perlas-MRU maintains eighth place with 17-22 record. Radviliskis lost third consecutive game. They keep the second position with 13 games lost. Perlas-MRU will face higher ranked Mazeikiai (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Radviliskis will play against Meresta in Pakruojis and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 41 Mazeikiai destroyed Nafta Universitetas on the opponent's court 86-67. Puntukas unfortunately lost to ABRO-Univ. in a home game 75-87.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 20 points, 8 rebounds and 12 assists by Bryan Harrison of Mazeikiai.

Nafta Universitetas - Mazeikiai 67-86

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 5th ranked Nafta Universitetas' (21-18) home loss to fourth ranked Mazeikiai (24-15) 67-86 on Friday. The game without a history. Mazeikiai led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Nafta Universitetas' 34. Mazeikiai forced 21 Nafta Universitetas turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Nafta Universitetas' players. American guard Bryan Harrison (188-84, college: Georgia Coll.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 8 rebounds and 12 assists for the winners and his fellow American import swingman Jason Warren (201-84, college: Missouri Western) chipped in 11 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Warren is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds and guard Deivydas Anuzis (182-92) scored 15 points. Five Mazeikiai and four Nafta Universitetas players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Mazeikiai moved-up to third place, which they share with Meresta. Loser Nafta Universitetas keeps the fifth position with 18 games lost. Mazeikiai will face Perlas-MRU (#8) in Vilnius in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Nafta Universitetas will play on the road against LKKA-Atletas in Kaunas and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Mazeikiai: B.Harrison 20+8reb+12ast, D.Vaitelis 16+5reb+1ast, M.Norkus 13+4reb+1ast, M.Guzauskis 12+3reb, J.Warren 11+9reb+5ast, V.Luksa 6+4reb+1ast
Nafta Universitetas: J.Kazakauskas 17+9reb+2ast, D.Anuzis 15+4reb, V.Chodosovskis 14+5reb, M.Girdziunas 10+4reb+2ast, T.Mazelis 3, H.Venskus 2+3reb+2ast
gschID: 122489


Zalgiris-Sabonio - LKKA-Atletas 57-76

Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Kaunas: LKKA-Atletas (#7) and Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6). Zalgiris-Sabonio was crushed at home by 19 points 57-76 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The game was mostly controlled by LKKA-Atletas. Zalgiris-Sabonio managed to win second period 16-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LKKA-Atletas made 16-of-18 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) who scored 17 points and 7 assists. Forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) chipped in 17 points and 6 rebounds. Four LKKA-Atletas players scored in double figures. Swingman Paulius Sorokas (198-92) produced 16 points and 8 rebounds and center Mindaugas Kupsas (215-91) added 11 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Priit Vene let to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. LKKA-Atletas (21-18) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Nafta Universitetas and Zalgiris-Sabonio. LKKA-Atletas will meet at home Nafta Universitetas (#7) in the next round. Zalgiris-Sabonio will play against the league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
LKKA-Atletas: S.Vingelis 17+1reb+7ast, V.Sragauskis 17+6reb+1ast, A.Sakalauskas 13+6reb, P.Malasauskas 10+2reb+2ast, T.Urbonas 6+9reb+1ast, E.Tviraga 6+2reb
Zalgiris-Sabonio: P.Sorokas 16+8reb+3ast, G.Zyle 16+2reb, M.Kupsas 11+8reb, K.Vecvagars 5+5reb+2ast, M.Grigonis 5+1reb, V.Kariniauskas 2+1reb
gschID: 122490


Puntukas - ABRO-Univ. 75-87

The game between closely ranked teams ended with sixth ranked ABRO-Universitetas' (13-25) road victory over 7th ranked Puntukas (10-28) 87-75 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by ABRO-Universitetas. Puntukas was better in third quarter 17-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when ABRO-Universitetas won last quarter 32-21. ABRO-Universitetas shot 28 for 41 from the free-throw line, while Puntukas only scored nine points from the stripe. Puntukas was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Aivaras Kvedaravicius (184-88) stepped up and scored 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and Belarusian swingman Vitali Liutych (198-92) chipped in 22 points and 6 rebounds. Center Paulius Joneliunas (211-84, college: American) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Puntukas' coach Gintautas Regina gave the chance to play for ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. ABRO-Universitetas maintains sixth place with 13-25 record. Newly promoted Puntukas keeps the seventh position with 28 games lost. ABRO-Universitetas will face higher ranked Akademija (#4) in Vilnius in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Puntukas will play on the road against the league's leader Silute.
Top scorers:
ABRO-Univ.: V.Liutych 22+6reb+1ast, A.Kvedaravicius 21+7reb+3ast, E.Vaupsas 13+1reb+2ast, I.Ramasauskas 10+13reb+2ast, N.Mika 5, A.Kurauskas 5+3reb+2ast
Puntukas: D.Tarvydas 19+7reb+1ast, B.Maze 15+4reb+6ast, P.Joneliunas 15+12reb, T.Rinkunas 13+3reb+4ast, G.Butkus 5+1reb+3ast, V.Volodko 4+3reb
gschID: 122491


Triobet Malsta - Silute 78-82

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Triobet Malsta (16-21) in Jonava on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by Silute (16-21) 82-78. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 15-21 record before this meeting. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Triobet Malsta won third quarter 24-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Silute won last quarter 27-25. They also forced 20 Triobet Malsta turnovers. 30 personal fouls committed by Triobet Malsta helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Guard Evaldas Jurkus (190-84) stepped up and scored 36 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds for the winners and swingman Andrius Cizikas (197-88) chipped in 14 points and 9 assists. Guard Tadas Sebeziovas (183-85) responded with 14 points and center Paulius Vaitiekunas (208-87) scored 7 points and 11 rebounds. Triobet Malsta's coach Kestutis Narusevicius tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Silute keeps a position of league leader, which they share with defeated Triobet Malsta. Silute is looking forward to face Puntukas (#7) in Anyksciai in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Triobet Malsta will play on the road against Delikatesas (#5) in Joniskis and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Silute: E.Jurkus 36+7reb+2ast, J.Cesnavicius 19+6reb, A.Cizikas 14+4reb+9ast, A.Vaitiekus 7+3reb, V.Nedzinskas 4+12reb+3ast, R.Dimiciukas 2+2reb
Triobet Malsta: T.Sebeziovas 14+4reb+3ast, R.Juknevicius 11+1ast, G.Maciulevicius 11+1reb, T.Milinskas 10+7reb+1ast, A.Vasiliauskas 9+4reb+5ast, P.Vaitiekunas 7+11reb+1ast
gschID: 122485


Akademija - Erelita 80-62

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Erelita-KTU (14-24) against fifth ranked Akademija (13-24) on Thursday night. Visiting Erelita-KTU was defeated by Akademija in Vilnius 80-62. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Akademija's pressure prevailed and they won that period 26-12 extending their advantage to 18 points. Akademija outrebounded Erelita-KTU 46-24 including a 33-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. 26 personal fouls committed by Erelita-KTU helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) orchestrated the victory by scoring 27 points and 9 rebounds. Guard Karolis Alekna (183-91) contributed with 18 points and 4 assists for the winners. Guard Arturs Pelss (181-87) answered with 17 points and 4 assists and guard Matas Sapiega (180-90) added 14 points and 5 assists in the effort for Erelita-KTU. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Akademija have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Delikatesas. Erelita-KTU at the other side keeps the third position with 24 games lost. Akademija's next round opponent will be ABRO-Universitetas (#6) in Siauliai.
Top scorers:
Akademija: J.Jurgo 27+9reb+3ast, K.Alekna 18+4reb+4ast, E.Mockevicius 17+7reb+1ast, T.Lekunas 9+8reb+2ast, M.Satas 4+5reb, O.Olisevicius 3+4reb+1ast
Erelita: A.Pelss 17+3reb+4ast, M.Sapiega 14+3reb+5ast, M.Lisajevicius 10+1reb+1ast, R.Cepanonis 6+4reb+1ast, M.Pazera 4+1reb, M.Jakstas 4
gschID: 122486


Meresta - Pieno Zvaigzdes 80-83

Third-ranked Meresta (24-15) gave a tough game to first ranked Pieno Zvaigzdes (38-1) in Pakruojis. The visitors from Pasvalys managed to secure only three-point victory 83-80. However their fans expected easier game. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Meresta. The guests were ahead by 2 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 22-17 run, which allowed them to win the game. Power forward Arnas Kazlauskas (204-76, agency: Court Side) nailed 23 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side and guard Gintautas Vileita (194-75, college: Monmouth) accounted for 19 points and 6 steals. Four Pieno Zvaigzdes players scored in double figures. Pieno Zvaigzdes' coach Rimantas Endrijaitis allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Guard Liudas Radavicius (188-88) came up with 16 points and guard Saulius Raziulis (183-76, agency: Court Side) added 8 points and 8 assists respectively for Meresta in the defeat. Pieno Zvaigzdes have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 38-1 record. Meresta at the other side keeps the third position with 15 games lost. They share it with Mazeikiai. Pieno Zvaigzdes will play against Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in Kaunas in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Meresta will play on the road against the league's second-placed Radviliskis and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pieno Zvaigzdes: A.Kazlauskas 23+5reb+2ast, G.Vileita 19+3ast, D.Griskenas 13+6reb, A.Masiulis 10+10reb+1ast, D.Leonard 8+4reb+8ast, Z.Fredrick 6+1ast
Meresta: T.Druktenis 18, L.Radavicius 16+4reb+1ast, T.Balciunas 14+1reb+3ast, A.Danusevicius 9+6reb, S.Raziulis 8+4reb+8ast, S.Slivka 7+5reb+1ast
gschID: 122487


Perlas-MRU - Radviliskis 76-57

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Radviliskis (26-13) against eighth ranked Perlas-MRU (17-22) on Friday night. Visiting Radviliskis was crushed by Perlas-MRU in Vilnius 76-57. The game was mostly controlled by Perlas-MRU. Radviliskis was better in third quarter 17-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Radviliskis 54-29 including a 40-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Guard Evaldas Lengvinas (190-89) stepped up and scored 21 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and forward Karolis Brusokas (200-91) chipped in 10 points and 15 rebounds. Four Perlas-MRU players scored in double figures. Perlas-MRU's coach used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Nigerian forward Azeez Oladimeji (204-89) responded with a double-double by scoring 13 points, 10 rebounds and 7 blocks and guard Zilvinas Kuklierius (180-85) scored 14 points. Perlas-MRU maintains eighth place with 17-22 record. Radviliskis lost third consecutive game. They keep the second position with 13 games lost. Perlas-MRU will face higher ranked Mazeikiai (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Radviliskis will play against Meresta in Pakruojis and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Perlas-MRU: E.Lengvinas 21+7reb+6ast, M.Kazonas 13+7reb+3ast, P.Semaska 12+4reb+3ast, K.Brusokas 10+15reb, T.Padegimas 7+3reb, A.Gorskovas 7+4reb
Radviliskis: Z.Kuklierius 14+2reb+3ast, A.Oladimeji 13+10reb+1ast, R.Rauktys 12+6reb, L.Valantinas 6+2reb+2ast, L.Pipiras 6+4reb+1ast, D.Rekasius 4+2reb
gschID: 122488




Best players of Lithuanian LKL round 24 - by Eurobasket News
Former international forward Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83) had an amazing evening in the last round for Neptunas Klaipeda and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
The 27-year old forward had a double-double of 20 points and thirteen rebounds, while his team crushed Alytus Alita (#13, 2-17) with 25-point margin 100-75. Neptunas maintains the 8th position in Lithuanian LKL. Neptunas is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 7-11 record. In the team's last game Vasylius had a remarkable 63.6% from 2-point range. He turned to be Neptunas' top player in his first season with the team. Old Dominion University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Vasylius is in league's top in points (5th best: 15.4ppg), rebounds (7th best: 7.0rpg) and averages solid 63.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old center Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) of Nevezis Kedainiai. Dimsa impressed basketball fans with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Of course he lead Nevezis to another comfortable win 74-61 over the higher-ranked Techasas (#6, 10-9) being unquestionably team leader. This victory allowed Nevezis to move up to 9th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-11 record. Dimsa is well-known by Nevezis fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.7ppg (#4). He also registered 7.5 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Marius Janisius (203-C-77) of Alytus Alita (#13). Janisius scored 16 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite Janisius' great performance Alytus Alita lost 75-100 to the higher-ranked Neptunas (#8, 7-11). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Alytus Alita can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 2-17 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Janisius he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Janisius has individually a great season in Lithuania. After only 7 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 10.4rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. David Weaver (209-C-87) of Siauliai - 19 points and 7 rebounds
5. Vytenis Lipkevicius (198-F-89) of Rudupis - 19 points and 6 rebounds
6. Virginijus Sirvydis (196-G/F-73) of Sakalai - 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Aurimas Birgelis (190-G-88) of Alytus Alita - 24 points and 2 assists
8. Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85) of Neptunas - 16 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Aivaras Kiausas (199-F-80) of Sakalai - 15 points and 7 rebounds
10. Julius Zurna (188-G-86) of Neptunas - 15 points, 5 rebounds and 7 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)

Standings - NKL
NKL Standings
Group A
 1. Pieno Zvaigzdes 38-1 
 2. Radviliskis 26-13 
 3. Mazeikiai 24-15 
 4. Meresta 24-15 
 5. LKKA-Atletas 21-18 
 6. Zalgiris-Sabonio 21-18 
 7. Nafta Universitetas 21-18 
 8. Perlas-MRU 17-22 
Group B
 1. Silute 16-21 
 2. Triobet Malsta 16-21 
 3. Erelita 14-24 
 4. Akademija 13-24 
 5. Delikatesas 13-24 
 6. ABRO-Univ. 13-25 
 7. Puntukas 10-28 


Stats Leaders - NKL
Points Per Game
 Vidmantas SRAGAUSKIS
  LKKA-Atletas
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Sragauskis, LKKA-.22.1 
 2. Petraitis, Delikate.21.7 
 3. Vingelis, LKKA-.20.3 
 4. Jurkus, Silute18.3 
 5. Tarvydas, Puntukas18.2 
 6. Sebeziovas, Triobe.16.7 
 7. Cizauskas, Zalgir.16.4 
 8. Mineikis, Radviliskis16.3 
 9. Jacevicius, Perla.16.2 
 10. Girdziunas, Nafta U.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Egidijus MOCKEVICIUS
  Akademija
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Mockevicius, Akade.10.6 
 2. Pikalavicius, Delika.10.1 
 3. Oladimeji, Radvilis.9.4 
 4. Warren, Mazeikiai8.7 
 5. Nedzinskas, Silute8.6 
 6. Brusokas, Perla.8.6 
 7. Mineikis, Radviliskis7.7 
 8. Jucikas, Delikatesas7.3 
 9. Kupsas, Zalgir.7.3 
 10. Kaupaitis, Silute7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 7.1
 1. Harrison, Mazeikiai7.1 
 2. Vingelis, LKKA-.5.1 
 3. Sapiega, Erelita4.9 
 4. Kuklierius, Radvilis.4.8 
 5. Cizauskas, Zalgir.4.6 
 6. Leonard, Pieno Z.4.4 
 7. Kutra, Delikatesas4.4 
 8. Vasiliauskas, Triobe.4.2 
 9. Virsilas, Silute4.1 
 10. Zymantas, Nafta U.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Harrison, Mazeikiai2.8 
 2. Zymantas, Nafta U.2.5 
 3. Petraitis, Delikate.2.5 
 4. Vasiliauskas, Triobe.2.4 
 5. Metelica, Erelita2.4 
 6. Vileita, Pieno Z.2.4 
 7. Sapiega, Erelita2.2 
 8. Jurkus, Silute2.1 
 9. Kutra, Delikatesas2.1 
 10. Leonard, Pieno Z.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Egidijus MOCKEVICIUS
  Akademija
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Mockevicius, Akade.2.6 
 2. Urbonas, LK.2.2 
 3. Kupsas, Zalgir.1.9 
 4. Jucikas, Delikatesas1.7 
 5. Oladimeji, Radvilis.1.5 
 6. Pupinis, Erelita1.3 
 7. Ramanauskas, Sil.1.2 
 8. Ramasauskas, ABRO-.1.0 
 9. Milinskas, Triobe.0.9 
 10. Bernataviciu., Triobe.0.9 


Juventus and Kaunas enter Challenge Cup Final - by Eurobasket News
Juventus and Kaunas have reached the Challenge Cup Final. They overcame their opponents in the respective semifinal battles tonight.
Juventus faced a 3-point deficit after the starting game against Neptunas. But Robertas Giedraitis team had little problems at home court. Juventus claimed a comprehensive 94:74 victory. Marius Prekevicius (196-F-84, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Florida) dropped 19 points to pace the winners. Juventus exploded with 59 points in the first half building a 19-point lead. Neptunas could not recover after the main break and faced the hosts rallying to the victory. Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-C-89, agency: Interperformances) netted 13 points and collected 8 rebounds, while Gediminas Maceina (188-G-84) added 12 points in the win. Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83, college: ODU) tallied 18 points, 5 boards and 5 assists for Neptunas. Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency: Limelight Hoops) had 16 points in the loss.
Kaunas entered the second game against Techasas with a four-point deficit to overcome. The situation got even worse in the first half. Techasas started the game aggressively and recorded a 10-point halftime advantage. Kaunas turned things around in the second half. The hosts erupted for 31 points in the third term to turn the deficit into a 7-point lead. They sealed the victory in the fourth quarter and reached Final. Arunas Vasiliauskas (201-F-85) tallied 22 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists for Kaunas. Povilas Cukinas (210-C-83) provided 23 points and 10 boards in the victory. Gintaras Leonavicius (194-G-83, agency: Players Group) and Vaidotas Volkus (203-F-85, college: Redlands CC) delivered 20 points each for Techasas. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-G-87) chipped in 12 points in defeat.


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


Blazers sign Jarron Collins to second 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The Portland Trail Blazers have signed center Jarron Collins (6'10''-F-78, college: Stanford) to a second 10-day contract, it was announced today by General Manager Rich Cho.

Portland signed Collins to a 10-day contract on March 1. He has appeared in three games for the Trail Blazers, totaling six rebounds and one assists.

Collins, 32, holds career averages of 3.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 0.8 assists and 15.8 minutes in 540 games (216 starts) with Utah, Phoenix, L.A. Clippers and Portland.

A 10-year NBA veteran who played collegiately at Stanford, Collins (6-11, 249) also spent the 2009 preseason with the Trail Blazers, averaging 3.5 points, 2.0 rebounds and 14.0 minutes in four games.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com

Bucks sign Earl Barron to second 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The Milwaukee Bucks have signed center Earl Barron (7'0''-C-81, college: Memphis) to a second 10-day contract, General Manager John Hammond announced today. Barron was signed to his initial 10-day contract on March 1.

Barron has appeared in three games with the Bucks and has averaged 4.0 points and 4.7 rebounds in 11.0 minutes. In his Bucks debut, Barron contributed four points and a season-high nine rebounds on March 1 in a win over Detroit.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

NBA fines Hornets' G Marco Belinelli for hard foul on Dallas' Shawn Marion - by Eurobasket News
The NBA fined Hornets guard Marco Belinelli (6'5''-G-86) $10,000 on Thursday for his flagrant foul on Shawn Marion during New Orleans' 93-92 victory over the Dallas Mavericks a night earlier.

NBA executive vice president Stu Jackson said the foul, initially ruled a flagrant foul, penalty one, has been reviewed by the league and changed to a more serious penalty two.

The foul caused Marion to lose his balance while attempting a fast-break layup. He crashed into photographers on the baseline, hurting his right ribs.

At practice in suburban New Orleans on Thursday, before Belinelli was fined, Hornets coach Monty Williams said he thought officials got the initial call right.

'Marco's foul on Marion he has the same play against (Mike) Conley in Memphis and he allows Conley to get a layup I talked to him about we're not trying to hurt anybody, but you don't give up layups,' Williams said. 'I thought it was a good foul. He didn't try to hurt him.'

Marion stayed on the court for a few possessions after the play, which occurred in the third quarter, then left the game for good.

Marion said afterward that X-rays were negative and that he'll be fine.

Belinelli wound up scoring 21 points, including his fourth 3-pointer of the game with 50 seconds left, igniting an improbable 8-0 run during the final minute.

Had officials initially ruled a flagrant foul, penalty two, Belinelli would have been ejected with more than 5 minutes remaining in the third quarter.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Miami Heat's Pat Riley: Erik Spoelstra's job is safe - by Eurobasket News
Heat president Pat Riley offered support for coach Erik Spoelstra on Wednesday, putting to rest speculation that Spoelstra's job could be on the line this season.

'It's the media being neurotic', Riley told The Newark Star-Ledger during the preliminary rounds of the Big East conference tournament at Madison Square Garden. 'It's their need to make a story, create a story and make that story come true. And that ain't going to happen. Write it off.'

Riley has maintained a low profile this season, rarely speaking publicly about the Heat. Losers of five consecutive games entering Thursdays game against the Lakers, the Heat has dropped to third in the Eastern Conference. With games against the Memphis Grizzlies, San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma City Thunder and Atlanta Hawks in the coming week, the schedule doesnt get any easier. Were just in a tough time right now, well get through it, Riley said.

During the interview, Riley offered a balanced perspective when asked about the Heats losing streak.

Everyone has to overreact to things right now, Riley said. Were going through some tough times, and we will get through it. Its like anything else, like I always say, the playoffs will tell. Everything else now is just rhetoric. And were getting ready for that time. And I dont really care what position we play from.'

On Thursday, Spoelstra indicated that Rileys experience has been invaluable throughout the season. Riley coached high-profile teams in New York and Los Angeles. Recently, Riley helped calm Spoelstras nerves following the Heats loss to the Bulls. After the game, Riley invited Spoelstra to his office for a low-key meeting.

We both sat on the couch and shared a bottle of wine and just sat there and thinking about what to do next,' Spoelstra said.


Big need

One reason for Rileys level-headed demeanor during the Heats struggles could be his realization that the Heat is still a few players from unlocking its full potential. Riley was in New York on Wednesday scouting college prospects, and he acknowledged that the roster could use an additional inside presence.

We need a big, and well get it, Riley told the Star-Ledger. We wont get it this year, but well get it.

The Heat has started three centers at different times during the season. Erick Dampier is the current starter. Joel Anthony began the season as the starter, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas has started 47 games. Center Jamaal Magloire has only played in eight games this season.

During the Heats five-game losing streak, the Heats center rotation averaged 5.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.


X-boxed

Lakers coach Phil Jackson expressed his displeasure with the Heats offense before Thursdays game, calling it a one-on-one X-Box offense.

Im not a big fan of the style Miami plays, Jackson said. I like to see everyone involved.

Jackson said he enjoys watching the offenses of the Boston Celtics and the San Antonio Spurs.

Basketball is not a one-on-one game, Jackson said. Its a team game.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com



Michael Jordan says Rose 'no doubt' MVP this season - by Eurobasket News
Michael Jordan receives massive standing ovations whenever he returns to the United Center, as he will Saturday night for the 20th anniversary celebration of the Bulls' first NBA championship in a ceremony with former broadcaster Jim Durham as host.

But there might be a few extra decibels involved given what His Airness said about Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) in a rare interview Wednesday night.

'MVP of the season,' the Bobcats owner said Wednesday night after the Bulls downed his team 101-84. 'He deserves it. He's playing that well, without a doubt.'

Then Jordan offered that sly smile.

'And if he doesn't get it, now he will see how I felt a lot of those years,' the Bulls' Hall of Famer said.

Rose was 2 1/2 when the Bulls won their first championship, and his memories are mostly of the second three-peat. Jordan's words clearly floored him.

Courtesy of www..chicagotribune.com

Charlotte's Joel Przybilla ruled out against Trail Blazers due to right knee - by Eurobasket News
Charlotte center Joel Przybilla (7'1''-C-79, college: Minnesota) will not play Friday against the Trail Blazers because of pain in his surgically repaired right knee.

'I think he is going to be out for a while,'' Bobcats coach Paul Silas told Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer after Thursday's practice. 'His knee is really bothering him. He's not helping himself or the team if he's hurt and not able to play (effectively).''

Silas on Wednesday didn't play Przybilla in the Bobcats game against Chicago after the former Trail Blazers center limped through a Tuesday practice.

Silas noticed Przybilla laboring during Tuesday's practice, saying the 31-year-old center ran slower and slower until he finally stopped.

After seven seasons in Portland, Przybilla was traded to Charlotte on Feb. 24 with Dante Cunningham and Sean Marks for Gerald Wallace. In five games with Charlotte, Przybilla is averaging 1.8 points and 4.8 rebounds in 14.8 minutes.

Przybilla last season had December surgery to repair a ruptured the patella tendon in his right knee. Midway through his rehabilitation, he re-ruptured the same tendon when slipped in the shower of his Milwaukee, Wis., home. After another surgery, he returned to action in early December, but has maintained that the knee still bothers him.

Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com

Bulls' Boozer day to day after spraining left ankle against Charlotte - by Eurobasket News
Chicago Bulls forward Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke) is day-to-day with a sprained left ankle and could be out for as much as a week.

Coach Tom Thibodeau said Thursday that the power forward could be out 'anywhere from a couple days to a week' after he was injured in the fourth quarter of Wednesday's 101-84 win at Charlotte.

Boozer was going for a layup when he was knocked to the floor on a flagrant foul by Kwame Brown. His leg bent awkwardly, his ankle twisting, and he limped off the court.

X-rays and an MRI confirmed the extent of the injury.

'It was a hard foul, but that's part of it,' Thibodeau said. 'You just have to move on, get ready for the next game.'

Could he play in the next game?

'He had swelling today,' Thibodeau said. 'If the swelling is down more and he can go, he'll go. If it isn't ... it will really depend on how much swelling he has.'

Taj Gibson figures to start in his place, although Thibodeau would not commit to that, and veteran Kurt Thomas will likely re-enter the rotation. Chicago hosts Atlanta on Friday and Utah on Saturday.

The Bulls (45-18) have won 11 of 13 and trail Eastern Conference leader Boston by 1 1/2 games.

Losing Boozer, who's second on the team at 18.3 points and 9.6 rebounds, would leave the Bulls without their main low-post threat, but it's a blow Chicago should be able to withstand at least for now.

The Bulls got off to a 9-6 start while he was recuperating from a broken bone in his right hand and then went 22-8 with Joakim Noah sidelined by a torn ligament in his right thumb. That includes a stretch in which the Bulls took two of three without their top two big men, with Boozer nursing a sprained left ankle.

Thibodeau said the injury this time was similar. That's a relief for the Bulls, considering how nasty the fall looked.

'I thought something was really messed up,' all-star point guard Derrick Rose said. 'For a guy that's 260, 270 falling like that, I thought something was torn, but thank God it was just a sprain.'

Courtesy of The Canadian Press

Nets sign Sundiata Gaines to second 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The New Jersey Nets have signed guard Sundiata Gaines (6'1''-G-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Georgia) to a second 10-day contract, Nets General Manager Billy King announced today. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not released.

The 24-year old from the University of Georgia has appeared in three games for the Nets, averaging 5.7 points and 4.0 assists in 18.3 minutes. In 17 games with New Jersey, Toronto and Minnesota this season, he has averaged 4.3 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 12.3 minutes per contest.

In 49 career NBA games, including 32 appearances with Utah in 2009-10, Gaines has averaged 3.7 points and 1.4 assists in 8.7 minutes while shooting .431 (66-153) from the field.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Thunder assigns Byron Mullens to D-League Tulsa - by Eurobasket News
For the third time this season, the Oklahoma City Thunder have assigned reserve center Byron Mullens (7'0''-C-89, college: Ohio St.) to the Tulsa 66ers of the NBA Development League.

Thunder general manager Sam Presti announced the move Thursday. Mullens is expected to be in uniform Friday for Tulsa's home game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce.

In his two previous stints with Tulsa, the 7-foot Mullens has started in all six of his appearances and averaged 16.7 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocked shots per game.

He's played in 12 games this season for Oklahoma City, averaging 1.3 points and 1.6 rebounds per game.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Thursday: Heat ends its anguish by edging the Lakers - by Eurobasket News
Miami Heat - LA Lakers 94-88
Less than 2 minutes to go, tie game, Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) with the basketball and staring down Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette). Bryant's move was good. Wade's reaction was better. And in that moment, Miami's epic run of blown opportunities late in games started coming to an end. Wade's steal set up LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) for the dunk that put Miami ahead to stay with 1:27 left, Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) scored 24 points in his first outing after saying he wanted more shots, and the Heat beat the Los Angeles Lakers 94-88 on Thursday night to end a five-game losing streak and hand the two-time defending NBA champions their first loss in nine games. 'We had everything riding on this game, really, to be honest with you,' Bosh said. Wade scored eight of his 20 points in the fourth quarter and James finished with 19 points, nine assists and eight rebounds for Miami, which secured a postseason bid with 17 games left - the earliest that's happened in franchise history. Kobe Bryant scored 24 points for the Lakers, who got 20 from Pau Gasol. Andrew Bynum finished with 13 points and 12 rebounds for Los Angeles. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Dallas M. - New York K. 127-109
Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) scored 23 points, Shawn Marion (6'7''-F-78, college: UNLV) had 22 and Jason Terry 21 and the Dallas Mavericks proved themselves to their coach by beating the New York Knicks 127-109 Thursday night. Dallas had lost two of its past three games, with coach Rick Carlisle calling his Mavericks 'soft' after they blew a seven-point lead in the final minute in New Orleans the night before. Players responded just like he hoped, setting season highs for points in a quarter (41), half (72) and game. The Mavs showed plenty of feistiness on both ends of the court, from newly added reserve Corey Brewer making a pair of backcourt steals - leading to a powerful dunk once - to Tyson Chandler and Jason Kidd turning an errant pass headed out of bounds into a three-point play for Brendan Haywood. The lead peaked at 26 with those points, then New York rallied, but Dallas avoided another meltdown as it had against the Hornets and a few days before against Memphis, when an 18-point lead turned into a one-point loss. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Phoenix Suns - Denver N. 97-116
Hilario Nene (6'10''-C-82) scored 22 points in 26 minutes and the Denver Nuggets won in Phoenix for the first time in 13 tries with a 116-97 rout of the mistake-prone, cold-shooting Suns on Thursday night. Coach George Karl ended an even longer drought in the desert. The Nuggets' coach had not won in Phoenix since Dec. 28, 1997, when he was with the Seattle SuperSonics. Karl had not won in Phoenix as coach of Milwaukee or Denver until Thursday night. The Nuggets, playing for the first time since losing to the Clippers in Los Angeles on Saturday, converted the Suns' 20 turnovers into 32 points and shot 52 percent to Phoenix's 41. Ty Lawson (5'11''-G-87, college: N.Carolina) added 20 points and 11 assists for the Nuggets, who led by 24 after three quarters. Marcin Gortat had 14 points and tied a career high with 18 rebounds for the Suns, who never led in their second-worst home loss of the season. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28.2
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.28.2 
 2. Stoudemire, New Y.26.4 
 3. James, Miami Heat26.2 
 4. Wade, Miami Heat25.5 
 5. Anthony, Denver N.25.2 
 6. Bryant, LA Lakers25.1 
 7. Ellis, Golde S.24.8 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.24.5 
 9. Gordon, LA Clippers23.7 
 10. Nowitzki, Dallas M.23.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.8
 1. Love, Minnesota T.15.8 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.13.9 
 3. Randolph, Memph.12.8 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.12.4 
 5. Noah, Chicago B.11.7 
 6. Bogut, Milwauke.11.5 
 7. Camby, Portland TB11.0 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers10.3 
 9. Horford, Atlanta H.9.9 
 10. Okafor, N.Orlean.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Rondo, Boston C.12.1 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.4 
 3. Williams, Utah Jazz9.7 
 4. Paul, N.Orleans H.9.6 
 5. Calderon, Toron.9.2 
 6. Felton, New Y.9.0 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.8 
 8. Westbrook, Oklah..8.5 
 9. Kidd, Dallas M.8.3 
 10. Rose, Chicago B.8.1 
Steals Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Rondo, Boston C.2.4 
 2. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.4 
 3. Ellis, Golde S.2.3 
 4. Conley, Memphis G.1.8 
 5. Felton, New Y.1.8 
 6. Evans, Sacramen.1.7 
 7. Allen, Memphis G.1.7 
 8. Westbrook, Oklah..1.7 
 9. Gay, Memphis G.1.7 
 10. Kidd, Dallas M.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Bogut, Milwauke.2.8 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.2.3 
 3. McGee, Washingt.2.2 
 4. Milicic, Minnesota T.2.2 
 5. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.1 
 6. Duncan, San A.2.0 
 7. Stoudemire, New Y.2.0 
 8. Jefferson, Utah J.2.0 
 9. Bynum, LA Lakers1.9 
 10. Okafor, N.Orlean.1.9 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 46-16 
 2. New York K. 34-30 
 3. Philadelph.76 33-31 
 4. New Jersey N. 20-43 
 5. Toronto R. 17-47 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 45-18 
 2. Indiana P. 27-37 
 3. Milwaukee B. 25-38 
 4. Detroit P. 23-42 
 5. Cleveland C. 12-52 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 44-21 
 2. Orlando M. 41-24 
 3. Atlanta H. 37-27 
 4. Charlotte B. 26-38 
 5. Washington W. 16-47 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 40-23 
 2. Denver N. 38-27 
 3. Portland TB 37-27 
 4. Utah Jazz 34-31 
 5. Minnesota T. 16-50 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 46-20 
 2. Phoenix Suns 33-30 
 3. Golde State W. 28-36 
 4. LA Clippers 25-40 
 5. Sacramento K. 15-47 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 52-12 
 2. Dallas M. 47-18 
 3. N.Orleans H. 38-29 
 4. Memphis G. 36-30 
 5. Houston R. 33-33 


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


No. 4 Fighting Irish roll into Big East semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Notre Dame coach Mike Brey took his team to see the hit Broadway musical 'Jersey Boys' this week, not for the culture or entertainment, but so the Fighting Irish could see what teamwork looks like in action.

'I wanted them to see the best actors and chemistry and how they play off one another,' Brey said, 'because that's what I want them to do.'

They certainly did it to perfection Thursday night.

Ben Hansbrough (6'3''-G-87) led a brutally efficient attack with 23 points and the fourth-ranked Irish carved up one of the nation's best defenses in an 89-51 rout of No. 25 Cincinnati the most lopsided quarterfinal in Big East tournament history.

Carleton Scott (6'7''-F-88) scored 18 points and Tim Abromaitis (6'8''-F-89) had 17 for Notre Dame (26-5), sporting its highest national ranking since December 1980. The tournament's No. 2 seed, winners of five straight and 12 of 13, will play third-seeded Louisville or No. 11 seed Marquette on Friday night.

'When you have a performance like that, on this stage, that's something I'm really proud of,' Brey said. 'Hopefully it'll give us momentum to keep playing well in New York.'

Dion Dixon (6'3''-G-89) scored 15 points and Yancy Gates (6'9''-F-89), coming off a career-best 25 in a second-round win over South Florida, managed 12 for Cincinnati. But the duo got very little help.

The Bearcats (25-8) shot just 32.8 percent from the field and were nearly as bad from the foul line, going 8 for 17. They went the final 7:25 without scoring.

'We already know what happened,' coach Mick Cronin said. 'They're tough to defend, and at some point, the fact that we couldn't make a shot affected our defense.'

That point sure seemed to come early in the game.

Cincinnati entered allowing 58.6 points per contest, tops in the Big East and fourth-best in the nation. Notre Dame eclipsed that total with 14 minutes left, then matched the most points the Bearcats had allowed all season in an overtime win against Providence when it went ahead 81-51 on Hansbrough's layup with 4:22 remaining.

By that point, Cronin had given up yelling at his players and simply sat on the bench.

'I (didn't) think we were capable of playing 'D' as bad as we did tonight,' Gates said. 'They made a lot of shots, a lot of shots early. They did a good job of getting us to collapse and kicking it out. They just came out ready to play.'

The Irish wound up shooting 56.1 percent, doing damage from everywhere on the Madison Square Garden floor. They went 9 of 19 from beyond the 3-point arc, were 16 of 21 from the foul line, scored 14 points off turnovers and had a 40-24 advantage in the paint.

'Notre Dame played tremendous tonight, and we obviously, well, when we were at our worst they were at their best,' Cronin said. 'We got taken to the woodshed.'

Notre Dame took the lead in the opening minute and never trailed again, pushing ahead by double figures for the first time at 31-19 on Scott's 3-pointer with 6:06 remaining in the opening half. The score was 40-30 at halftime.

Cincinnati managed to match the Irish basket for basket early in the second half and was still within 49-39 on Rashad Bishop's jumper with 16:40 left.

But the Irish kept scoring when the Bearcats finally stopped, going on a 17-4 run that covered the next 6 minutes. Notre Dame wound up scoring on its first 11 offensive possessions, the first missed opportunity not coming until more than 7 minutes were gone. The Irish scored on their next two trips down the floor after that as the lead swelled to 68-43.

'It's all a matter of how you prepare, and I think this group has prepared tremendously all year,' Hansbrough said. 'We prepared ourselves mentally and took our mental preparation to the next level, and we did that through practice. Coach Brey did a great job pushing us.'

Cincinnati lost to the Fighting Irish in their only other meeting, on Jan. 19 in South Bend, where the Bearcats rallied from 14 down at halftime to within five in the closing minutes.

This time, Notre Dame stepped on the accelerator and kept pulling away.

'We were 'Jersey Boys' tonight,' Brey said.

And the stars of Broadway, too.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Walker shoots No. 21 UConn past No. 3 Pittsburgh - by Eurobasket News
Jim Calhoun drew up a play in the Connecticut huddle that gave Kemba Walker (6'1''-G-90) two options for the final shot. He could either take it himself in the closing seconds against Pittsburgh, or kick it to Jamal Coombs-McDaniel if he was covered.

As soon as Walker put the ball on the floor, Calhoun knew which choice he'd made.

The star point guard used a crossover and shoulder roll to shuck his defender right to the ground, then stepped back and swished the winning basket at the buzzer, lifting the No. 21 Huskies to a 76-74 victory over the third-ranked Panthers in the Big East quarterfinals.

'The best player in my opinion for his team made another winning shot, a big-time shot,' Calhoun said. 'There wasn't any doubt in my mind what option it would be when he put the hard dribble down. Kemba has made a ton of big shots.'

Few bigger than this one.

The buzzer sounded just as the ball went through the net, and freshman Shabazz Napier was the first person to grab Walker by the waist and hoist him into the air. The Huskies calmed down quickly, though, making sure nobody got hurt in the scrum.

After all, there's another game to play.

'Everybody was excited, you know? Coming into this game we're the underdogs, everyone saying we're going to lose,' Walker said. 'But everyone stayed together, and we came out with this victory. Everyone was excited, so I guess they just jumped on me.'

The Huskies (24-9) have won three games in three days after a late-season slide sent them to the No. 9 seed in the Big East tournament. They'll face fourth-seeded Syracuse, a 79-73 winner over St. John's, in the semifinals Friday night.

Walker finished with 24 points for the Huskies, his third straight tremendous performance at Madison Square Garden. The first-team All-Big East selection had 26 points in their opening win against DePaul, then scored 28 in a rout of Georgetown on Wednesday.

He was guarded part of the game by Ashton Gibbs (6'2''-G-90) in a matchup of elite guards.

Gibbs finished 10 of 13 from the field including 6 for 7 on 3-pointers and scored 27 points for the top-seeded Panthers (27-5), who led by 12 midway through the first half and still had the advantage most of the second half until Walker doomed them to their third loss in three tries with a double bye in the tournament.

Brad Wanamaker (6'4''-G-89) finished with 17 points and Nasir Robinson had 11 for Pittsburgh.

'We've got to use this as motivation,' Gibbs said. 'This is something we wanted to win, we wanted to win all three crowns, that's what we talked about all year - regular season, Big East and the NCAA tournament. We didn't get this one, so that's definitely motivation.'

Jeremy Lamb (6'5''-G/F) scored 17 points and Alex Oriakhi had 13 for the Huskies, including a critical putback off a miss by Walker with just more than a minute left.

The hoop gave Connecticut a 74-71 lead, but Gibbs got free off a screen and calmly drilled his sixth 3-pointer to knot it up with 47.9 seconds left.

Walker brought the ball up court and went right around Wanamaker to get an open look, but he left the jumper short and Coombs-McDaniel pulled down only his second rebound of the game. He quickly and alertly called timeout to set up the final shot.

Walker made it count.

'I had missed a shot and my teammates told me to just stay aggressive,' he said. 'Everybody in the world knew that ball was coming to me. I wanted to take that shot.'

The Huskies played the second half without guard Roscoe Smith, who took an elbow to his face with 7:20 left before the break. He received eight stitches and was tested for a concussion, then spent the rest of the game on the bench.

Calhoun said he's not sure whether Smith will be available in the semifinals.

'It was one of those games where Pittsburgh asks you, 'How tough are you? If you're tough enough, you can beat us,'' Calhoun said. 'And we were tough enough today.'

Especially when it came to rebounding, the obvious strength of the Panthers.

They came into the game plus-11 in rebounding margin, by far the top mark in the Big East and among the best in the nation. Yet they were outrebounded 32-25 by some scrappy Huskies, including 17-9 on the offensive glass.

UConn also took advantage of 11 turnovers by converting them into 20 points.

'We played hard, but at the end we simply got beat at our own game. We got beat on the boards, it was clear and evident down the stretch,' Pitt coach Jamie Dixon said. 'It's something we'll address as we get ready for the NCAA tournament.'

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Walker's buzzer-beater carries UConn - by Rick Ross
Courtesy Of sportsillustrated.cnn.
NEW YORK (AP) -- Jim Calhoun drew up a play in the Connecticut huddle that gave
Kemba Walker two options for the final shot. He could either take it himself in the
closing seconds against Pittsburgh, or kick it to Jamal Coombs-McDaniel if he was covered.

As soon as Walker put the ball on the floor, Calhoun knew which choice he'd made.
The star point guard used a crossover and shoulder roll to shuck his defender right to the ground,
then stepped back and swished the winning basket at the buzzer, lifting the No. 21 Huskies to a
76-74 victory over the third-ranked Panthers in the Big East quarterfinals.

The best player in my opinion for his team made another winning shot, a big-time shot,' Calhoun said.
There wasn't any doubt in my mind what option it would be when he put the hard dribble down. Kemba has made a ton of big shots.'

Few bigger than this one.
The buzzer sounded just as the ball went through the net, and freshman
Shabazz Napier was the first person to grab Walker by the waist and hoist him into the air.
The Huskies calmed down quickly, though, making sure nobody got hurt in the scrum.

After all, there's another game to play.
Everybody was excited, you know? Coming into this game we're the underdogs,
everyone saying we're going to lose,
Walker said. 'But everyone stayed together, and we came out with this victory.
Everyone was excited, so I guess they just jumped on me.'

The Huskies (24-9) have won three games in three days after a late-season slide sent them to the
No. 9 seed in the Big East tournament. They'll face fourth-seeded Syracuse,
a 79-73 winner over St. John's, in the semifinals Friday night.

Walker finished with 24 points for the Huskies, his third straight tremendous performance at Madison Square Garden.
The first-team All-Big East selection had 26 points in their opening win against
DePaul, then scored 28 in a rout of Georgetown on Wednesday.

He was guarded part of the game by Ashton Gibbs in a matchup of elite guards.
Gibbs finished 10 of 13 from the field - including 6 for 7 on 3-pointers
and scored 27 points for the top-seeded Panthers (27-5), who led by
12 midway through the first half and still had the advantage most of the second half until
Walker doomed them to their third loss in three tries with a double bye in the tournament.

Brad Wanamaker finished with 17 points and Nasir Robinson had 11 for Pittsburgh.
We've got to use this as motivation,' Gibbs said. 'This is something we wanted to win,
we wanted to win all three crowns, that's what we talked about all year - regular season,
Big East and the NCAA tournament. We didn't get this one, so that's definitely motivation.

Jeremy Lamb scored 17 points and Alex Oriakhi had 13 for the Huskies,
including a critical putback off a miss by Walker with just more than a minute left.
The hoop gave Connecticut a 74-71 lead, but Gibbs got free off a screen and
calmly drilled his sixth 3-pointer to knot it up with 47.9 seconds left.

Walker brought the ball up court and went right around Wanamaker to get an open look,
but he left the jumper short and Coombs-McDaniel pulled down only his second
rebound of the game. He quickly and alertly called timeout to set up the final shot.

Walker made it count.
I had missed a shot and my teammates told me to just stay aggressive,' he said.
Everybody in the world knew that ball was coming to me. I wanted to take that shot.
The Huskies played the second half without guard Roscoe Smith, who took an elbow to his face with
7:20 left before the break. He received eight stitches and was tested for
a concussion, then spent the rest of the game on the bench.

Calhoun said he's not sure whether Smith will be available in the semifinals.
It was one of those games where Pittsburgh asks you, 'How tough are you
If you're tough enough, you can beat us,'' Calhoun said. 'And we were tough enough today.

Especially when it came to rebounding, the obvious strength of the Panthers.
They came into the game plus-11 in rebounding margin, by far the top mark in the
Big East and among the best in the nation. Yet they were outrebounded 32-25
by some scrappy Huskies, including 17-9 on the offensive glass.

UConn also took advantage of 11 turnovers by converting them into 20 points.
We played hard, but at the end we simply got beat at our own game.
We got beat on the boards, it was clear and evident down the stretch,
Pitt coach Jamie Dixon said. 'It's something we'll address as we get ready for the NCAA tournament.



Baylor freshman Forward Perry Jones III declared ineligible for receiving pre-enrollment benefit - by Eurobasket News
Baylor University freshman forward Perry Jones (6'10''-F/C) has been declared ineligible for a pre-enrollment amateurism violation/preferential treatment, school officials announced before the Bears were to take the floor to face Oklahoma in the opening round of the 2011 Phillips 66 Big 12 Championship in Kansas City, Mo., at 6 p.m. Wednesday. This is not considered to be an institutional violation of NCAA rules.

Baylor University was informed of the NCAA's decision on Jones III this afternoon and immediately appealed to have his eligibility reinstated.

'We are profoundly disappointed in the timing and determination in this matter,' said Baylor Director of Athletics Ian McCaw. 'This outcome appears to be inconsistent with other recent, widely discussed NCAA decisions.'

Jones III had no knowledge of three, 15-day loans between his mother and AAU coach that were provided while Jones III was in high school. The loans were repaid in a timely manner, according to interviews conducted by Baylor officials and the NCAA staff. Prior to his enrollment at Baylor, Jones' AAU coach also paid for Jones' travel to a professional pre-season football game in San Diego, Calif.

McCaw indicated that Baylor has been cooperative and transparent in working with the NCAA through this process, and that no Baylor representatives were involved or aware of any preferential treatment between the AAU coach and Jones' family, whose relationship dates to at least the sixth grade.

'Perry is to be commended for being cooperative and forthcoming during this unfortunate process,' McCaw said

Jones III, a finalist for the 2011 Wayman Tisdale Award given to the nation's top freshman, earned second-team All-Big 12 honors and leads all Big 12 freshmen in both scoring (13.9 ppg) and field goal percentage (.549).

Baylor and Jones III will have no further comment until his appeal process is completed.

Courtesy of www.baylor.edu

Austin Rivers named Naismith high school player of the year - by Eurobasket News
The accolades keep pouring in for Doc Rivers' son Austin Rivers (6'3''-G).

Austin Rivers was named the Naismith High school basketball player of the year today, another highlight in a stellar prep career for the Winter Park (Fla.) guard. He's already committed to playing for Duke.

Last week, he scored 25 points and nabbed 11 rebounds en route to the Florida Class 6A title. He averaged 29.2 points per game his senior year, according to USA Basketball.

'Being named the Naismith Player of the Year is a tremendous honor, especially considering only one person each year earns this prestigious award,' said Doc Rivers in a release. 'As a parent, I am extremely proud of Austin and as a coach, I'm impressed with how hard he works each day on becoming a better player. Our family is full of pride that Austin is receiving such a remarkable accolade and will be noted with this amazing distinction in basketball history.'

Austin Rivers is roundly regarded as the No. 1 prospect in the country.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

Providence fires Davis after just three seasons - by Eurobasket News
Keno Davis was fired Friday as men's basketball coach at Providence College after just three seasons on the job.

Providence athletic director Bob Driscoll made the announcement three days after the Friars lost to Marquette, 87-66, in the first round of the Big East tournament, ending their season at 15-17. They were 4-14 in the Big East for the second straight season and finished 14th in the conference.

'I appreciate everything Keno Davis has done for our basketball program during the last three years,' Driscoll said. 'We are committed to finding a head coach that will guide our program and help develop our student-athletes in the classroom, in the community and on the court.'

Davis, who turned 39 on Thursday, came to Providence in 2008-09 after his only other season as a head coach in which he led Drake to a 28-5 record and was named coach of the year by The Associated Press.

The Friars were 19-14 overall and 10-8 in the conference with an NIT appearance in Davis' first season. But since then, they were 27-36 and 8-28 for an overall record of 46-50 and 18-36.

Providence got off to an impressive start this season, going 11-2, although it lost the only Big East game in that stretch. Then came six consecutive losses in conference play before the Friars showed signs that they were turning around their season.

For the first time in 12 years, they beat two Top 25 teams in consecutive games - 72-67 over then No. 19 Louisville on Jan. 22 and 83-68 over No. 8 Villanova on Jan. 26, both in Providence. But they couldn't sustain that surge.

They lost 81-71 at Seton Hall. Then, after returning home for a 68-63 win over South Florida, the Friars dropped seven straight games. In one of those losses, 94-93 to No. 9 Notre Dame on Feb. 23, Friars senior guard Marshon Brooks scored a Big East record 52 points at home.

They did follow that losing streak by edging Rutgers 75-74 in Providence in their regular-season finale.

But then came the conference tournament, and the Friars came out flat against Marquette. They missed their first 11 field goal attempts and fell behind 17-0 before Brooks, the nation's second leading scorer with a 24.8 average, sank a drive 5:31 into the game.

'Stunned would be a fitting word to describe the start,' Davis said after the game.

Providence has reached the NCAA tournament just twice since 1997-98, losing in the first round under Tim Welsh in 2000-01 and 2003-04.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Dayton stuns No. 18 Xavier 68-67 at A10 tourney - by Eurobasket News
Another Atlantic 10 tournament. Another letdown for top-seeded Xavier.

Luke Fabrizius (6'9''-F) hit two free throws with 5.8 seconds to play and Dayton extended the Musketeers' string of failures in the league tournament by stunning No. 18 Xavier 68-67 in the quarterfinals on Friday.

''At this time of year, you cannot play uphill,'' Xavier coach Chris Mack said. ''To come back from 18 down is a pretty tough thing to do.''

The Musketeers, who have made the round of 16 in the NCAA tournament each of the last three seasons, have not won a league tournament title since 2006 despite winning or sharing the regular-season championship the past five seasons.

Xavier (24-7) likely will get another bid to the NCAA party on Sunday.

''We have to be ready to practice next week,'' senior forward Dante Jackson (6'5''-G-88) said. ''We have to take whatever we can from this loss and be ready when it's time to play again.''

No. 9 seed Dayton (21-12) will face 12th-seeded Saint Joseph's (11-21) in the semifinals. The Hawks upset fourth-seeded Duquesne 93-90 in overtime.

Last year's NIT champion, Dayton came out ready against the Musketeers. It built an 18-point lead in the opening minutes and still led by 17 midway through the second half when Xavier made a final charge, tying the game with less than 3 minutes to play and eventually taking its only lead at 67-66 on a three-point play by conference player of the year Tu Holloway with 23.9 seconds to go.

Xavier had a foul to give and it did with 12.6 seconds remaining. Chris Johnson (6'6''-F-90), who had 12 points and 10 rebounds, missed a jumper in the lane on the inbounds play but Fabrizius got the rebound and was fouled hard by Mark Lyons on his way back up.

Fabrizius fell hard to the floor and hit his head. For a couple of seconds there was concern he was hurt.

''I didn't even hear the whistle,'' said Fabrizius, who finished with 10 points. ''I just got up, shook myself off, and I knew I had to knock the free throws down.''

His shots hit nothing but net.

''I don't think I've ever hit free throws that big,'' Fabrizius said.

Xavier still had a chance to win.

Holloway, who had 23 points, inbounded the ball to 7-foot center Kenny Frease on the final possession. Holloway bobbled the ball momentarily when taking a return pass and the lost time prevented him from taking the ball to the basket. His 35-foot runner was on line but a little hard and Xavier, which went 15-1 against Atlantic 10 teams in the regular season, fell again in the tournament.

''It wasn't to be,'' Mack said. ''It's disappointing.''

As Dayton players hugged, Holloway looked up at the ceiling of Boardwalk Hall and put his hands to his head in disbelief.

''I was trying to catch the ball with one arm, and I got slowed,'' he said. ''But still, I got a good look, but it had to be a one-legged runner.''

Chris Wright scored 15 points to lead Dayton, which lost both regular-season meetings with Xavier. Paul Williams had eight of his 14 in a game-opening 21-3 spurt.

Lyons scored 14 points for Xavier, while Jamel McLean had 11.

Xavier staged a magnificent comeback after falling behind 21-3 in the opening minutes and finding itself down 54-37 with 12:21 to play after Williams hit a 3-pointer.

After that, the Musketeers started playing like the best team in the league. They eventually tied the game at 64 on a fast-break layup by Holloway with 2:47 to play, capping a 27-10 spurt.

Both teams failed to score on their next possession and Dayton eventually took a 66-64 lead on a layup by Josh Benson with 1:26 to play.

Lyons missed a drive on the Musketeers' next possession and Xavier looked in trouble when it committed a foul with 36.5 seconds to go, giving Dayton another 35-second shot clock.

However, the Flyers could not get the ball in play and were called for a 5-second violation.

Holloway drove the left side of the lane on the ensuing possession and converted a three-point play, giving Xavier its first lead at 67-66 with 23.9 seconds to go - but Fabrizius had one final response.

Dayton hit eight of its first nine shots, including four 3-pointers in jumping to a 21-3 lead in the opening 7:22. Williams ignited and capped the burst with 3-pointers.

Courtesy of www.csnbaltimore.com

No. 1 Ohio St escapes, beats Northwestern in OT - by Eurobasket News
Jared Sullinger (6'9''-F) had 20 points and 18 rebounds as No. 1 Ohio State barely avoided a stunning upset, beating Northwestern 67-61 in overtime Friday in the Big Ten tournament quarterfinals.

Sullinger made all 10 of his free throws in overtime after missing a baseline jumper that would have won the game as time expired in regulation. His 18 rebounds fell one short of the tournament record set by Ohio State's Greg Oden in 2007.

Top-seeded Ohio State, the defending tournament champion, won its fifth straight game to advance to Saturday's semifinals.

The Buckeyes led 56-55 in overtime when Luka Mirkovic was called for hooking Sullinger while they fought for a rebound. Mirkovic was issued a technical foul for arguing about the call. It was his fifth foul, and Sullinger's primary defender was gone.

William Buford missed both technical free throws, but Sullinger made his two foul shots to give Ohio State a 58-55 lead. The Buckeyes maintained control by going 6 for 6 from the free throw line the rest of the way.

Aaron Craft (6'2''-G) scored 17 points and Jon Diebler (6'6''-G) added 13 for the Buckeyes (30-2).

John Shurna (6'8''-F-90) scored 23 points, Michael Thompson (5'10''-G-89, college: Northwestern) added 15 and Drew Crawford had 12 points and 10 rebounds for the eighth-seeded Wildcats (18-13). Thompson was coming off a tournament-record 35 points in Thursday's win over Minnesota.

Ohio State shot 32.2 percent from the field, matching its worst effort of the season, but outrebounded the Wildcats 48-27.

The teams battled back and forth in the second half until the final minute. With the score tied at 52, Northwestern had a chance to take the lead, but David Lighty blocked Crawford's jumper. Then Sullinger's shot fell short as time expired.

Shurna's shooting kept Northwestern in the game early in the second half, and Thompson's short jumper with 10:54 remaining gave Northwestern a 38-37 lead.

Ohio State couldn't hit early, and Northwestern took advantage. Shurna made a 3-pointer to give the Wildcats a 16-14 lead with just under 7 minutes left in the first half.

The Buckeyes missed 21 of their first 31 shots, but Craft hit a 3-pointer, then a layup to give the Buckeyes a 26-23 lead in the final minute of the first half. After frantic action near the basket, Craft's tip-in at the buzzer gave the Buckeyes a 28-23 lead at the break.

Courtesy of www.chron.com

ACC: Heels escape with shot at buzzer by Zeller - by Eurobasket News
Tyler Zeller (7'0''-F-90) had just enough time to catch Kendall Marshall (6'3''-G) 's pass under the basket and put up a shot before the horn sounded.

The layup saved sixth-ranked North Carolina from a shocking exit from the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament.

Marshall penetrated into the lane and found Zeller for the buzzer-beating basket as the Tar Heels rallied from 19 down in the second half to beat Miami 61-59 in Friday's quarterfinals.

The top-seeded Tar Heels (25-6) spent most of the day playing nothing like the team that had lost just twice since December, including a rousing win against rival Duke less than a week earlier to clinch the regular-season title outright. They threw away passes against Miami's zone, couldn't establish their big men in the lane and couldn't get out in transition for easy baskets to build momentum.

Yet a frantic rally in the final 8 minutes sent North Carolina on to Saturday's semifinals against Clemson.

'We feel as lucky as we can possibly be,' coach Roy Williams said. 'Those kinds of things happen in tournament time.'

It was North Carolina's biggest comeback since rallying from 20 down in the first half to beat Georgia Tech in 2006 and its biggest second-half comeback since rallying from 21 down against Florida State in 1993. It is also believed to be the program's biggest comeback in any ACC tournament game.

'That's the thing about this team: we just keep fighting and fighting,' sophomore John Henson said. 'We came back good today, and that's what we do. I'm just glad we hit some shots.'

Zeller came through twice for the Tar Heels in the final minute, first scoring on a hook shot against Reggie Johnson (6'10''-C) to tie it at 59 with 45.3 seconds left. Then, after a Miami turnover, Marshall penetrated past Julian Gamble and drew Johnson away from Zeller.

Marshall's pass found Zeller almost directly under the basket, and he quickly put it up as Durand Scott (6'3''-G) rotated down from the foul line in a last-ditch attempt to block the shot.

'It's one of those things that people have made fun of me for not dunking, but it paid off on that possession,' Zeller said. 'I just caught it, and I had to shoot it as fast as possible. I knew as soon as I let it go that I had gotten it off in time because I knew the buzzer had gone off after it was out of my hands.'

The officials had no doubts either, immediately signaling the basket was good to send the home-state crowd filled with plenty of light blue into a loud roar of delight.

*Courtesy of www.blueridgenow.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


GNAC Players in West All-Region Team - by Sanjey Noriega

From gnacsports.com

The three players who each earned three first-place votes in the GNAC Player-of-the-Year balloting Saint Martin's Blake Poole (6'5''-C), Jamar Berry of Central Washington and Parrish West (6'5''-F) of Alaska Fairbanks have all been selected to the 2010-11 Daktronics NCAA Division II West Region Men's Basketball all-star team.

Poole, who averaged 19.3 points and ranked second in the nation in rebounding (11.6), finished second in the balloting for Region Player-of-the-Year honors to Brian Morris of Humboldt State.

Joining Morris, Poole, Jamar Berry who is averaging 17.5 points per game and West, who leads the nation with a 27.2 average, on the West Region first team all-star team was Cal State Monterey guard Davion Berry.

Two GNAC players - forward Taylor Rohde (6'9''-F/C) of Alaska Anchorage and center Chris Sprinker of Central Washington were named to the second team.

The Daktronics team is selected by thee region's sports information directors. A separate team will be selected by the NABC (National Association of Basketball Coaches). Parrish West (6'5''-F)

*****************************************************
  PALESTINE   


PBBA League Launches & Surprises Already in Week I - by Tamara Awartani
The Palestinian Superleague launched with 13 teams taking part (Catholic Action Withdrawn) and 6 games in Week I
The level of the game with no imports sure showed difference in comparison to the past two years with imports playing. There is a lot to work on to develop the players skills and raise the level of the game.
Palestine: Sports for Life (www.ps4l.org) in cooperation with the Palestinian Basketball Federation is providing technical service by developing a dedicated website for the league and collecting statistics of most of the games, to motivate the players and give everyone a bigger picture on the level were at. Itll also give the federation a basis on which to choose the national team. Check out www.palbasket.com for the game statistics, results, schedule, pictures and more.

Following are the game results and details for Week I

Opening Game Ibdaa vs. AlFaraa 78 48
It was a practice game for Ibdaa team, 2010 league and cup champs, who are ready to compete for the 2011 season with their 2010 roster in addition to Shadi Bahnan (180-G-87) a previous player from Catholic Action who will add up to the shooting guards of Ibdaa.
Ibdaa team was led by the well known player Yahia Al Khatib (190-G-77) along with Abdalla Jaber with his 3pointers & shots scoring 23points, Shadi Bahnan and Firas Sha'lan (91) s fastbreaks and shots while Thaer Nasr Jaffal (88) and Iyad Yousef Abdalla (205-C-80) had good inside moves.
AlFaraa Team, the new comers from 1st division, in addition to Ahmad Aqab the main player of Toubas, played with their hearts not giving up easily showing good skill and gaining good experience playing against Ibdaa. Ahmad Saeed had a good inside game along with Mahmoud Abdel Qader 3points and Ahmad Aqab great inside and outside game scoring 21 points.
20 15, 16 10, 23-9, 19-12

De La Salle vs. Hiteen 78 52
DLS having taken the 2nd place in 2010 are competing strongly for the title of 2011 season with their 2010 roster in addition to Mousa Bashir (206-C-78), a previous pro player in Jordan, and Saleem Sakakinin (87), a previous main player from Sarriyet Ramallah along with Fadi Yaghmour and Ammar Nofal (190-F-84) previous main players of DLS 2008/2009. While Hiteen main players are competing strong in addition to their u20 younger players gaining experience in the mens league.
The first half of the game was close, there were several missed shots from both teams and it took sometime to get into the game. DLS main forwards Mousa & Fadi didnt take part. DLS has several great guards, fast and great teamwork with 10 assists. Saleem Sakakinin was the scorer of the game with 28points, 19 rebounds and nice dunk, Tawfiq Richard scoring 11 points with 3 3pointers and 6 rebounds, Elie Nassrawi with good inside moves adding 10points and 11 rebounds, Tawfiq Robert with 2 3pointers, Wisam Bitar with the best defense along with Hazem Khatab, Hassan Awad, Telly Rafidi, and Ammar Nofal added several points, assists and steals.
Hiteen on the other hand, played strong in the first half, with their well known players such as Shadi Takruri scoring 19points, 2 3pointers, 7 rebounds, along with Saed Darawazehs great moves under basket scoring 11 points, 14 rebounds and 2 blocks, while Maysara Itmeh and Radwan Wanni each added 6 points and assists along with Mohammed AlHilu good steals & Bayan AlHout a new young player who played well under basket getting 8 rebounds.
17-19, 17-12, 19-8, 25-13

Birzeit vs. Sarriyet Ramallah 71 63
Birzeit the new comers from 1st Division, with the first surprise of the league, played strong from the 1st second of the game proving that theyre a team not to be taken easy! While Sarriyet Ramallah (4th place in 2010) had a bad start this season, missing out two of the main players Saleem Sakakinin - DLS and Jack Tannous with a bad knee injury prior to the season, unfocused, losing their first game.
Birzeit players were determined, fast and good teamwork, led by Ahmad Ghanem (87) scoring 29pts, 4 3pointers, 6reb,3steals and 2 assists, along with Mustafa Ghanem (89) scoring 13pts,3steals and 2 assists and Adham Hasseb scoring 11 points, 2 steals and 2 assists, while Ahmad Awadallah had a good inside game scoring 8 points and 14 rebounds and Mahmoud Assaf had 10 rebounds scoring 5points.
Sarriyet Ramallah players started off slow, were unfocused, missing out a lot of shots and turnovers. In the 3rd quarter the players were back in the game, with Hassan Jadeh scoring 19 points,14 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists, John Saadeh scored 15points, 3 3pointers and 2 assists, Ibrahim Habash scored 14points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Daud Abu Qweider, Murad Abu Laban added to the points along with 10 rebounds from Saji Shamasneh.
24/13, 17/6, 13/23, 17/21

Orthodox Ramallah vs. Islami Bethlehem 83/68
Orthodox Ramallah yet being another team competing for the 2011 league taking 3rd place in the 2010 league, playing with the 2010 roster in addition to Thabet Asbeh, a previous player of ORC and Ibrahim Zaibek an u20 player, missing out on Michael Khayyat who is currently abroad.
Where as Islami Bethlehem players are mostly new as their main players Hanna Sahwani, Fares Swaiti and Awad Hreimi left to Orthodox Bethlehem, but George Zelfo and Yassin Sharabati previous Catholic Action players are filling in the gap along with Ghaleb Hreimi a previous player from AlAroob team.
The game was close at some points but ORC players Ahmad Deeb, Ahmad Kandil and Ammar Jalaytah made sure to keep the gap with their quickness, shots and 3pointers, along with Nadeem Abdel Muhsen under basket.
Ghaleb AlHreimi with his great experience, Khaled Haj Meer great shots & 3 pointers along with Yassin Sharabit, Fayez AlHraimi and George Zelfo a very promising young 17year old player who was able to keep up, score and play his game.
20-17, 24/13, 15/18, 27/17

Orthodox Bethlehem vs. Orthodox Beit Sahour 67 65
Orthodox Bethlehem 2nd year in the superleague took on Hanna Sahwani, Fares Swaiti and Awad Hreimi from Islami Bethlehem to fill in the gaps and to compete with the 2010 roster that includes well known players such as Osama Jaber, Ibrahim Bandak, Raed Barakat and Firas Freij. While Beit Sahour on the other hand has a mixture of experienced and young players that play hard in addition to Ibrahim Habash,a previous player from Catholic Action, an 18 year old talented player who amazed everyone at the game.
The game was very close, tying several times especially in the last minutes, with both team playing hard to take the lead, Bethlehem team led by Hanna Sahwani who had several 3pointers along with Osama Jaber (196-F-78) who had good inside and outside moves & 3pointers, while Fares Swaiti and Ibrahim alBandak played well under basket.
Beit Sahour were led by Maher Kassis (90) with his quickness & shots, Ibrahim Habashs all around game along with Issa Salsa shots and Husam Kokalys inside moves.
19 17, 13-11, 14-21, 21 - 16

Eibal vs. Qalandia 74 66
A good game for both teams, Eibal having added a few of its u20 players to its 2010 roster and Qalandia adding John Stephan and George Makhlouf previous De La Salle players. It was a close game quite at the end, both teams having a lot of turnovers throughout the game, missed shots and foul trouble.
Naeem Turabi (185-F-81) & Basheer Souf (178-G-78) the experienced ones in the game played well, Naeem scoring 24 points, 13 rebounds and 4 steals while Basheer led the team with 4 assists and 9 points. The New u20 players showed great skill, with Adli Shaheens drives scoring 10 points, 5 assists, Nasser Dweikat shots scoring 13 points while Hamzeh Abbas scored 10 points and Tarek Tamimi played inside having 6 rebounds, 2 blocks, 2 assists and 2 steals.
Qalandia players played hard with pressing & man to man defense focusing on an outside game but with Nizar Shehadeh being fouled out in the last few minutes of the 4th quarter affected them, Nizar led the team scoring 18 points, 4 3pointer, 3 steals and 2 assists while Aham Ali had good drives scoring 14 points and 8 rebounds, Firas Afaneh played great defense, scoring 10 points, while Munif Tayem & Ismael Hamad had good inside game, Munif scoring 10points, 17 rebounds & Ismael scoring 9 points, with 23 rebounds.

Week II Started Today, Stay Tuned


Standings - Men
PBBA Standings
 1. De La Salle 2-0 
 2. Ibdaa D. 2-0 
 3. Berzeit Club 1-0 
 4. Bethlehem 1-0 
 5. Orthodox R. 1-0 
 6. Ebal 1-1 
 7. Al Ahli 0-0 
 8. Beit Sahour 0-1 
 9. Hiteen 0-1 
 10. Islami 0-1 
 11. Qalandia 0-1 
 12. Sarriyet 0-1 
 13. Al Fara 0-2 


*****************************************************
  PERU   


Standings - Superior
Superior Standings
 1. Regatas 4-0 
 2. Real Club 3-0 
 3. Inmaculada 2-0 
 4. San Marcos 2-0 
 5. Ejercito 1-2 
 6. Rinconada 1-2 
 7. Centro Naval 1-2 
 8. Escuela Fap 0-2 
 9. Real Amist. 0-2 
 10. Circolo/UAP 0-4 


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


Standings - 2 Liga
2Liga Standings
Group A
 1. MMKS SIDEn 21-2 
 2. AZS Kutno 20-3 
 3. SMS PZKosz 17-6 
 4. Norgips 15-7 
 5. Zuraw 14-9 
 6. Tur 13-10 
 7. KK Swiecie 10-13 
 8. Korsarz 9-13 
 9. AZS Olsztyn 9-14 
 10. OSSM PZKosz 8-14 
 11. Zyrardowianka 8-15 
 12. Basket Pila 6-16 
 13. Trefl II 6-17 
 14. MON-POL 3-20 
Group B
 1. Open Florentyna 23-3 
 2. Sudety 19-7 
 3. Nysa Klodzko 19-7 
 4. Stal Ostrow 19-7 
 5. MKS Osemka 17-9 
 6. Obiekty 15-11 
 7. GTK Gliwice 14-12 
 8. Alba 13-13 
 9. Ksiezak 11-15 
 10. AZS PP Poznan 10-16 
 11. AZS PO Opole 10-16 
 12. Slask Wroclaw 9-17 
 13. Pogon Prudnik 8-18 
 14. A-Bild Bytom 8-18 
 15. Pogon RS 7-19 
 16. AZS Pol.Cz-wa 6-20 
Group C
 1. MOSiR Krosno 25-1 
 2. Znicz Jaroslaw 21-5 
 3. Polonia 18-8 
 4. Unia Tarnow 17-9 
 5. AZS AWF K-ce 15-11 
 6. MKS Limanowa 13-13 
 7. Staco 13-13 
 8. Wisla Krakow 13-13 
 9. Novum Lublin 12-14 
 10. HK Zory 12-14 
 11. AZS PR Radom 10-16 
 12. AZS Rzeszow 10-16 
 13. UMKS 10-16 
 14. MCKiS 9-17 
 15. Mickiewicz 8-18 
 16. Cracovia 2-24 


*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   


Preseason Cup opens in Canovanas - by Eurobasket News
Canovanas welcomed preseason cup. Caciques de Humacao and Atleticos de San German came out victories on the opening day.
Caciques de Humacao prevailed against Maratonistas de Coamo 63:49. James Life (194-G-83, college: Massachusetts) led the winners with 11 points. Johwen Villegas (193-G-85, college: Florida Intern.) answered with 9 points in the losing effort.
San German dominated against Mayaguez 85:83. Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-G-84, college: VCU) stepped up with 19 points for San German. Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83) unloaded game-high 21 points in the losing case.
Santurce will face Arecibo, while Bayamon will take on Quebradillas later tonight. BSN season is slated to start on March 24.


Maratonistas de Coamo add Matt Freije - by Eurobasket News
Matt Freije (207-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) will continue his career in Puerto Rico. The 29-year-old Lebanese forward inked a deal with Maratonistas de Coamo. Matt Freije is not new to Puerto Rico. He played for Mets de Guaynabo in 2010. His stats read 15.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. In December 2010 Matt Freije signed contract with Hebraica Macabi in Uruguay. He tallied 15.4 points, 7.5 boards and 1.2 assists per game in LUB. Matt Freije had spells in NBA, CBA, Greece, Germany, Puerto Rico (Guayama, Leones de Ponce, Criollos de Caguas), Lebanon and China. Matt Freije played for Lebanon at the 2010 World Championship. The forward posted 6.8 points and 3.8 rebounds per game in Turkey.


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


Kirk Snyder to play for Nizhny Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
Nizhny Novgorod continue to bolster their roster. After landing Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) the team signed another import player. Nizhny Novgorod have agreed on terms of contract with Kirk Snyder (198-F-83, college: Nevada). The 27-year-old forward was last seen in PBL. He inked a deal with the Halifax Rainmen in January. The forward tallied 2.0 points and 2.7 rebounds per game and left the team in February. In 2008/09 season Kirk Snyder played for Zhejiang Cyclones in China. His stats read 33.6 points, 9.9 boards, 4.5 assists and 2.0 steals per appearance. Earlier Kirk Snyder had stints with the Utah Jazz, Memphis Grizzlies and Houston Rockets in the NBA. Kirk Snyder was All-WAC Player of the Year in 2004 when playing for Nevado-Reno.


*****************************************************
  SAUDI ARABIA   


Prayers out to the families in Japan. - by Rashad Woods
I know I said i wasn't going to to blog for a while. I just feel so bad for the people in Japan and wanted to see my prayers out for there lose and the tragedy. It was the most powerful earthquake to hit Japan in at least 100 years struck offshore the island nation. The official death toll stood at 137, with 539 injured and 351 missing, according to Kyodo, citing police, but that death toll seemed almost certain to rise -- from 200 to 300 bodies have been found in the coastal city of Sendai alone, Kyodo News reported. I just wanted to take this time to share my thoughts and I pray for the people get through this and the entire region to overcome this tragedy.

Rashad 'ACE' Woods Rashad Woods (195-G/F-86, college: Kent St.)

*****************************************************
  SCOTLAND   


KINGS CHAMPIONS AGAIN - by Sandy Sutherland
Edinburgh Kings' Scottish international centre Simon Flockhart has
declared that he is hungry for more titles after his team clinched
the Scottish League title for the fifth year in a row and eighth
time in all.
'That's brought my personal title tally to 10 and I'm still not
tired of winning,' said Flockhart, who shared two previous
triumphs wth the sadly now defunct Livingston/Midlothian Bulls
team.
Kings may now want to target Boroughmuir's record of nine league
titles, or even the great MIM's 10 titles before they became
Livingston, under which name they added another seven crowns.
But if they are to do that the Scottish Capital outfit may have to
do some recruiting as the Kings bench has shrunk to threadbare
proportions as the season's end approaches.
Coach Danny Costello blames injuries and Scottish Asssociation
rules which prevent second team players stepping up.
Kings' second team Edinburgh City are teeming with talent and are
through to the final of the consolation trophy, the Scottish
Chairman's Cup after beating West side PSG 83-52 in Glasgow.
And Kings juniors have also clinched the Scottish League title and, like the seniors, are through to the Scottish
Cup final.
Meanwhile, without Edgars Rekis, who was back in Latvia, Kings had
just seven players to accomplish their task of beating St Mirren
in the title clincher at Portobello, which they did 69-56 in one
of the poorest games of the season.
Ahead just 10-nine after an abysmal first quarter, they improved
marginally to 32-22 by half-time and they could be thankful that
the visitors were more sinners than Saints that they were not more
severely punished.
Scotland guard Garreth Lodge, though lively enough in defence, had
a nightmare with his shooting and missed his first seven free
throws and 10 in all.
Fortunately Scottish junior cap Lee Reilly, despite feeling unwell
beforehand and then dislocating his little finger, stepped up to
score 22, with Mike Kirkpatrick adding 15 in one or two sporadic
but key bursts to deter any fightback.
Reilly, one of the best prospects in the Scottish game, completed
a fine weekend with another 26 in the following day's 81-52 final
fixture win over East Lothian Peregrines with Flockhart adding 21
points and captain Paddy Campbell 16.
Swedish centre Rob Jansson had 13 including three three-pointers
for Peregrines.



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


Stats Leaders - 1B
Points Per Game
 Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 28
 1. Bjelica, Viva Basket28.0 
 2. Svilar, Smederevo20.6 
 3. Dukanac, Mladost .19.4 
 4. Radic, Spartak18.8 
 5. Blagojevic, KG 0617.1 
 6. Trailovic, Sindje.17.1 
 7. Tesanovic, KK Nis16.9 
 8. Lalic, Radnicki BG16.3 
 9. Ivosev, Vojvodina15.7 
 10. Stanisavljev., Jagod.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nemanja KNEZEVIC
  Vojvodina
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Knezevic, Vojvodina9.5 
 2. Vuletic, Viva Basket8.9 
 3. Ivosev, Vojvodina7.9 
 4. Petrovic, Viva B.7.2 
 5. Dukanac, Mladost .7.1 
 6. Koprivica, Radnicki.7.0 
 7. Gugleta, Zeleznicar7.0 
 8. Glisovic, Student6.7 
 9. Zivanovic, Smede.6.7 
 10. Trailovic, Sindje.6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Bjelica, Viva Basket6.6 
 2. Karic, Radnicki BG6.4 
 3. Kasabasic, Zeleznicar5.4 
 4. Boltic, Radnicki BG4.6 
 5. Dinic, Spartak4.2 
 6. Mijovic, Radnicki.4.2 
 7. Tanasijevic, Stude.4.2 
 8. Stanisavljev., Jagod.4.1 
 9. Sparovic, Smede.4.1 
 10. Vukasovic, Radnic.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Negoslav GACIC
  Radnicki BG
  (--)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Gacic, Radnicki BG2.8 
 2. Karic, Radnicki BG2.8 
 3. Zivanovic, Smede.2.3 
 4. Kuntic, Spartak2.1 
 5. Ivosev, Vojvodina2.0 
 6. Tomasevic, Vojvo.1.9 
 7. Radic, Spartak1.9 
 8. Sparovic, Smede.1.9 
 9. Kasabasic, Zeleznicar1.9 
 10. Tanasijevic, Stude.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Slobodan GUGLETA
  Zeleznicar
  (--83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Gugleta, Zeleznicar2.3 
 2. Karahodzic, Spartak1.6 
 3. Knezevic, Vojvodina1.4 
 4. Marelja, KG 061.0 
 5. Petrovic, Viva B.1.0 
 6. Vasilic, Radnic.1.0 
 7. Savic, Student0.9 
 8. Markovic, Sindjeli.0.9 
 9. Kovac, Zeleznicar0.8 
 10. Mirkovic, KG 060.8 


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


Jones to Alternate Fears in Prievidza - by Tomas Kottra
Quite not good situation in BC Prievidza after feared guard Jeremy Fears (196-G-85, college: Bradley) left the club desperate only few games before the start of Play-offs. Could be the situation worse than this? Sure! Injury problems have seized also Richard Lesko (204-F-81, college: Ill.-Chicago) aund Rostislav Uhlir (198-F-86) and as the trading deadline is history now, club must accomplish this season without any roster changes. But the frequent player changes from early season saved the situation for BC Prievidza, because there are many players who have played there for some time.
One of them was Christopher Jones (183-G-88, college: Prairie View A&M) who have played only one game game in regular season and then been removed for groin injury, but also his statistics were not one of the best - only 3 points, 3 assists and 4 rebounds per 20 minute performance in loosing effort in home game against Svit.
'We wanted to fill our roster and Chris was one of possibilities. As he have never played in any other club this season, there was no reason to withdraw him from our roster. He said he's all right and ready to play,' said Head Chairman Maros Pavlenda.
Jones will came to play today against rival team of Handlova, after he spent only one training session with his teammates.

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


Jung's 3pt shot strikes No.1 KT - by JungHwan Seo
Young-Sam Jung (ET land, guard) made a big finish for his home crowd against No.1 KT Sonic boom.

The game was tied to 74-74 with 2:07 minutes remaining on 4th quarter. At that moment, Jung had a chance to finish the game. He made a couple of 3pt shot which can make an 84-80 victory over league No.1 KT sonic boom on Thursday.

It was my shot of the year. No, it was my best shot during my entire professional career! I'm still excited Jung said.

Jung was an overall 4th pick in the KBL draft 2007. He became a one of the best shooting guard in the KBL. Especially his penetration was unstoppable. People called him Korean D-wade. Also he played very well against Slovenia and Canada at the 2008 Beijing Olympic qualifying matches as a starting guard of Korean senior national team.

However, he had struggled for last 2 seasons because of his shoulder injury. At that time, ET land acquired some big scorers like Jang-Hoon Seo and Jarod Stevenson. Jung became a 3rd or 4th option in his team.

I got just few chances these days. When I got the ball, I had to shot within 5 seconds. That situation made me unhappy. But, I changed my mind now. Whenever I get the ball, I am trying to make a goal. Then, my team can get another chance Jung explained.

Head Coach of ET land, Do-Hoon Yoo, was satisfied with Jung's playing. Jung told me a lot that he will play better at the playoffs. He showed that tonight. He can get a confidence coach said.

ET land (36/14) secured at least 2nd place at the regular season standing. They got an advantage to avoid first round of playoff series. Even though tonight's loss, KT sonic boom (37/13) was remained as the top of the KBL.


Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Sonic Boom KT 37-13 
 2. Elephants 36-14 
 3. KCC Egis 33-18 
 4. Dongbu Promy 30-21 
 5. Samsung Th. 25-25 
 6. LG Sakers 24-26 
 7. SK Knights 20-31 
 8. Mobis Phoebus 18-33 
 9. Anyang KGC 16-35 
 10. Daegu Orions 14-37 


KBL Round 50: ET Land Elephants defeat leader Sonic Boom KT - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Sonic Boom KT (37-13) in Inchon on Thursday night. Visitors were defeated by second ranked ET Land Elephants (36-14) 84-80. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Sonic Boom KT. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 22-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. ET Land Elephants made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Sonic Boom KT helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Jarod Stevenson (200-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points and 4 assists (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Center Jang-Hoon Seo (207-74) contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. ET Land Elephants' coach used entire bench in such tough game. The former international forward Sung-Min Cho (197-83) replied with 32 points (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) for Sonic Boom KT. ET Land Elephants maintains second position with 36-14 record having just -19 point less than leader Sonic Boom KT. Sonic Boom KT at the other side still keeps top place with 13 games lost. ET Land Elephants are looking forward to face Mobis Phoebus (#8) in Ulsan in the next round where they are favorite. Sonic Boom KT will play on the road against Dongbu Promy (#4) in Wonju and is hoping to win this game.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Seoul: SK Knights (#7) and Samsung Thunders (#5). Samsung Thunders were defeated at home 77-87 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. The former international guard Hee-Jung Joo (181-77) scored 15 points and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Terrence Leather chipped in 19 points during the contest. SK Knights' coach Sun Woo Shin allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) responded with 26 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). SK Knights maintains seventh position with 20-31 record. Samsung Thunders lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifth place with 25 games lost. SK Knights will play against league's leader Sonic Boom KT in Busan in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Samsung Thunders will play on the road against LG Sakers (#6) in Changwon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked KCC Egis (33-18) against tenth ranked Daegu Orions (14-37) on Wednesday night. Host KCC Egis were defeated by Daegu Orions in a tough game in Jeonju 83-87. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of KCC Egis. Amal McCaskill notched a double-double by scoring 20 points, 6 rebounds and 13 assists to lead the effort. Even a double-double of 19 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists by Chris Daniels did not help to save the game for KCC Egis. KCC Egis' coach Jae Hur tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Daegu Orions have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain tenth position with 14-37 record. Loser KCC Egis keep the third place with 18 games lost. Daegu Orions will meet at home higher ranked Anyang KGC (#9) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. KCC Egis will play against the league's second-placed ET Land Elephants (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Bottom-ranked Daegu Orions managed to get the third consecutive victory. This time they outleveled fourth-ranked Dongbu Promy 93-72. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 21-point difference proves that Daegu Orions was well-prepared to that game. The best player for the winners was Dong Jun Lee who scored 17 points and 8 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Daegu Orions have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain tenth position with 14-37 record. Dongbu Promy at the other side keeps the fourth place with 21 games lost. Daegu Orions' next round opponent will be higher ranked Anyang KGC (#9) at home and it may be quite challenging game. Dongbu Promy will play against the league's leader Sonic Boom KT (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.

In the last two games of round 50 LG Sakers beat Anyang KGC on the road 84-77. Mobis Phoebus won against Anyang KGC on its own court 65-55.
The most impressive performance of 50th round was 31 points by Greg Stevenson of LG Sakers.

Anyang KGC - LG Sakers 77-84

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked LG Sakers (24-26) beat on the road 9th ranked Anyang KGC (16-35) 84-77. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Anyang KGC won third quarter 19-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LG Sakers dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Anyang KGC's 36. They outrebounded Anyang KGC 37-25 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was naturalized American forward Greg Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) who scored 31 points (on 13-of-15 shooting from the field). American center Chris Alexander (216-80, college: Iowa St., agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 6 points and 19 rebounds. LG Sakers' coach Eul-Jun Kang let to play all 12 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Nigerian-American swingman Jeff Varem (198-83, college: Washington St.) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 16 rebounds and forward Jung-Hyun Lee (189) added 22 points and 5 assists respectively for the hosts. Five Anyang KGC players scored in double figures. LG Sakers maintains sixth position with 24-26 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the ninth place with 35 games lost. LG Sakers' next round opponent will be higher ranked Samsung Thunders (#5) in Seoul and it may be quite challenging game. Anyang KGC will play on the road against Daegu Orions (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
LG Sakers: G.Stevenson 31+4reb+2ast, S.Ki 13+4reb+2ast, H.Byun 10+1reb+3ast, J.Han 8+2reb+1ast, C.Alexander 6+19reb+3ast, H.Jeon 5+1ast
Anyang KGC: J.Lee 22+2reb+5ast, J.Varem 14+16reb+1ast, S.Kim 14+1ast, H.Yang 11+3reb+2ast, C.Park 10+2reb+1ast, S.Park 4
gschID: 114290


Samsung Th. - SK Knights 77-87

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Seoul: SK Knights (#7) and Samsung Thunders (#5). Samsung Thunders were defeated at home 77-87 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. The game without a history. SK Knights led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. The former international guard Hee-Jung Joo (181-77) scored 15 points and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American center Terrence Leather (204-81, college: S.Florida) chipped in 19 points during the contest. Four SK Knights players scored in double figures. SK Knights' coach Sun Woo Shin allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) responded with 26 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) and forward Dong-Uk Kim (195-81) scored 14 points and 7 assists. SK Knights maintains seventh position with 20-31 record. Samsung Thunders lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifth place with 25 games lost. SK Knights will play against league's leader Sonic Boom KT in Busan in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Samsung Thunders will play on the road against LG Sakers (#6) in Changwon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
SK Knights: T.Leather 19+3reb+3ast, H.Kim 17+1reb+2ast, K.Hoon Byun 16+4reb+5ast, H.Joo 15+3reb+8ast, G.Cline-Heard 9+6reb+1ast, I.Baek 6
Samsung Th.: A.Haynes 26+5reb+1ast, D.Kim 14+3reb+7ast, E.Sandrin 12+4reb+2ast, N.Dixon 10+3reb, W.Lee 9+3reb+1ast, J.Lee 3+8reb+2ast
gschID: 114291


Elephants - Sonic Boom KT 84-80

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Sonic Boom KT (37-13) in Inchon on Thursday night. Visitors were defeated by second ranked ET Land Elephants (36-14) 84-80. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Sonic Boom KT. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 22-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. ET Land Elephants made 17-of-22 free shots (77.3 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Sonic Boom KT helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Jarod Stevenson (200-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points and 4 assists (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Center Jang-Hoon Seo (207-74) contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four ET Land Elephants players scored in double figures. ET Land Elephants' coach used entire bench in such tough game. The former international forward Sung-Min Cho (197-83) replied with 32 points (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) and American power forward Charles Rhodes (203-85, college: Mississippi St.) added 24 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Sonic Boom KT. ET Land Elephants maintains second position with 36-14 record having just -19 point less than leader Sonic Boom KT. Sonic Boom KT at the other side still keeps top place with 13 games lost. ET Land Elephants are looking forward to face Mobis Phoebus (#8) in Ulsan in the next round where they are favorite. Sonic Boom KT will play on the road against Dongbu Promy (#4) in Wonju and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Elephants: J.Stevenson 25+4reb+4ast, Y.Jung 17+3reb+1ast, H.Hill 15+5reb+1ast, J.Seo 15+6reb+1ast, O.George 5+2reb+1ast, S.Park 3+1reb+3ast
Sonic Boom KT: S.Cho 32+1reb+1ast, C.Rhodes 24+6reb, S.Park 7+4reb+3ast, M.Pyo 5+4ast, Y.Song 5+8reb+1ast, S.Park 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 114292


Mobis Phoebus - Anyang KGC 65-55

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 9th ranked Anyang KGC's (16-35) road loss to eighth ranked Mobis Phoebus (18-33) in Ulsan 55-65. It looked good early as Anyang KGC took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Mobis Phoebus had a 14-10 second period charge getting the lead and Anyang KGC was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 55-65. Mobis Phoebus brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. The best player for the winners was American center Kentrell Gransberry (206-85, college: LSU) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). The former international guard Dong-Geun Yang (182-81) chipped in 12 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Four Mobis Phoebus players scored in double figures. Mobis Phoebus' coach JaeHak Yoo used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. International forward Hee-Jong Yang (194-84) produced 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and international guard Chan-Hee Park (191-87) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the guests. Defending champion maintains eighth position with 18-33 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the ninth place with 35 games lost. Mobis Phoebus' next round opponent will be league's second-placed ET Land Elephants in Inchon and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Anyang KGC will play on the road against Daegu Orions (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Mobis Phoebus: K.Gransberry 15+15reb, J.Park 13+4reb+2ast, C.Song 12+1reb+4ast, D.Yang 12+5reb+6ast, K.No 5+2reb+3ast, J.Ryu 4+2reb
Anyang KGC: C.Park 12+5reb+5ast, H.Yang 12+8reb+4ast, J.Lee 11+2reb+1ast, J.Varem 8+11reb+3ast, S.Kim 8+3reb+3ast, M.Kim 4+6reb+1ast
gschID: 114293


Daegu Orions - Dongbu Promy 93-72

Bottom-ranked Daegu Orions managed to get the third consecutive victory. This time they outleveled fourth-ranked Dongbu Promy 93-72. It's especially surprising that the victory came too easily and 21-point difference proves that Daegu Orions was well-prepared to that game. The game was mostly controlled by Daegu Orions. Dongbu Promy was better in fourth quarter 29-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Daegu Orions dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to Dongbu Promy's 32. They outrebounded Dongbu Promy 37-26 including a 30-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Daegu Orions players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Dongbu Promy's players. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Dong Jun Lee (200-80) who scored 17 points and 8 rebounds. American power forward Amal McCaskill (211-73, college: Marquette) chipped in 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Daegu Orions players scored in double figures. American forward Victor Thomas (201-79, college: La Salle) produced 20 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Bum-Jae Park (189-83) added 16 points respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Daegu Orions have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain tenth position with 14-37 record. Dongbu Promy at the other side keeps the fourth place with 21 games lost. Daegu Orions' next round opponent will be higher ranked Anyang KGC (#9) at home and it may be quite challenging game. Dongbu Promy will play against the league's leader Sonic Boom KT (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Daegu Orions: D.Jun Lee 17+8reb+1ast, I.Heo 17+2reb+2ast, J.Park 12+2reb+3ast, A.McCaskill 11+6reb+4ast, T.Kim 8+3reb+9ast, K.Kim 7+2reb+2ast
Dongbu Promy: V.Thomas 20+8reb+1ast, B.Park 16+1reb+1ast, J.Park 12+2ast, C.Kwon 8+1reb+1ast, K.Jin 6+2reb, R.Benson 5+7reb+1ast
gschID: 114294


KCC Egis - Daegu Orions 83-87

Very important is a home loss of third ranked KCC Egis (33-18) against tenth ranked Daegu Orions (14-37) on Wednesday night. Host KCC Egis were defeated by Daegu Orions in a tough game in Jeonju 83-87. It ended at the same time the six-game winning streak of KCC Egis. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But KCC Egis won third quarter 22-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Daegu Orions looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. American power forward Amal McCaskill (211-73, college: Marquette) notched a double-double by scoring 20 points, 6 rebounds and 13 assists to lead the effort and guard Tae-Woo Kim (183-86) supported him with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Four Daegu Orions players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 19 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists by American center Chris Daniels (211-84) did not help to save the game for KCC Egis. The former international guard Byung-Hyun Kang (193-85) added 19 points for the hosts. KCC Egis' coach Jae Hur tried various players' combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Daegu Orions have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain tenth position with 14-37 record. Loser KCC Egis keep the third place with 18 games lost. Daegu Orions will meet at home higher ranked Anyang KGC (#9) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. KCC Egis will play against the league's second-placed ET Land Elephants (#2) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Daegu Orions: A.McCaskill 20+6reb+13ast, I.Heo 19+2reb, T.Kim 19+6reb+4ast, D.Jun Lee 16+5reb, J.Park 8, K.Kim 3+2reb+4ast
KCC Egis: C.Daniels 19+11reb+4ast, B.Kang 19+4reb+2ast, S.Ha 14+6reb, J.Lim 9+1reb+6ast, S.Choo 7+1ast, E.Dawson 5+4reb+1ast
gschID: 114289




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


Stats Leaders - LEB Gold
Points Per Game
 Ricardo GUILLEN
  La Laguna
  (205-F/C-76)
  Avg: 19.3
 1. Guillen, La Laguna19.3 
 2. Palacios, La Palma17.1 
 3. Mohammed, Lleida16.5 
 4. Detrick, Melilla16.0 
 5. Seawright, Leon15.5 
 6. Franklin, CB Tarra.15.3 
 7. Feldeine, Breogan15.0 
 8. Navarro, Girona14.9 
 9. Faverani, CB Mu.14.3 
 10. Narros, Navarra14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kiril WACHSMANN
  Alcazar
  (203-C/F-83)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Wachsmann, Alcazar9.5 
 2. Curtis, Lleida9.1 
 3. Sinanovic, Clinic.8.0 
 4. Seawright, Leon7.6 
 5. Humphrey, Caceres7.4 
 6. Guillen, La Laguna7.4 
 7. Kale, Ourense7.3 
 8. Junyent, Obradoiro7.2 
 9. Arteaga, Breogan7.2 
 10. Frost, Palencia7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Juan AGUILAR
  CB Tarragona
  (187-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Aguilar, CB Tarra.4.7 
 2. Sabat, La Laguna4.2 
 3. Rodriguez, Obrad.4.0 
 4. Bernabe, Leon3.6 
 5. Jimenez, Melilla3.5 
 6. Rivero, CB Murcia3.3 
 7. Garrido, Palencia3.2 
 8. Cherry, Caceres3.2 
 9. Quezada, Leon3.1 
 10. Frutos, Alcazar3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Andres RODRIGUEZ
  Obradoiro
  (182-PG-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Rodriguez, Obrad.2.4 
 2. Bernabe, Leon1.8 
 3. Castro, Burgos1.6 
 4. Rost, Girona1.6 
 5. Palacios, La Palma1.5 
 6. Franklin, CB Tarra.1.5 
 7. Xavier, Caceres1.5 
 8. Toledo, Burgos1.4 
 9. Alba, CB Tarragona1.4 
 10. Seawright, Leon1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Jeff FOOTE
  Melilla
  (213-C-88)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Foote, Melilla2.2 
 2. Humphrey, Caceres1.8 
 3. Fontet, Leon1.4 
 4. Joseph, Navarra1.3 
 5. Diouf, CB Tarragona1.3 
 6. Sinanovic, Clinic.1.2 
 7. Faverani, CB Mu.1.1 
 8. McCoy, Caceres1.1 
 9. Arteaga, Breogan1.0 
 10. Gray, CB Murcia0.9 


Gran Canaria brings in Dejan Borovnjak - by Eurobasket News
Dejan Borovnjak (208-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) is a new player of Gran Canaria. The Serbian power forward/center signed a deal for rest of the season. Borovnjak arrives to Granca from Aris, where he had 7.7 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 19 games in Greek league. He also appeared 14 times in EuroCup adding 9.6 ppg and 4.5 rpg.
Dejan Borovnjak split last season between Lietuvos Rytas and Panionios Athens. With the Lithuanian outfit he had 10.8 ppg and 5.4 rpg in LKL, plus 10.9 ppg and 4.5 rpg in Baltic league. In Euroleague, Borovnjak registered 5.1 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Later with Panionios he averaged 6.3 points and 2.5 rebounds in 6 games. Dejan Borovnjak is a product of Partizan Belgrade, where he started as a teenager. He stayed there until 2008, when he moved to Vojvidina Srbijagas. Borovnjak helped Serbian University Team to win the Gold at the World University Games two years ago.

ACB Round 24 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Fourteenth-ranked Lagun Aro GBC (9-15) gave a tough game to second ranked Real Madrid (19-5) in San Sebastian on Thursday. The visitors from Madrid needed an overtime to secure 88-78 victory. However their fans expected much easier game. Worth to mention a great performance of Sergio Llull (190-G-87) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 4 assists. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Real Madrid maintains second position with 19-5 record behind leader Regal Barca. Lagun Aro GBC at the other side keeps the fourteenth place with 15 games lost. Real Madrid will face Meridiano Alicante (#16) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Lagun Aro GBC will play against Blancos de Rueda in Valladolid.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 24: Valencia lost to Caja Laboral on the opponent's court 65-72. Regal Barca managed to outperform Cajasol in a home game 73-60. Manresa was rolled over Unicaja on the road 75-51. DKV Joventut defeated Valladolid on its own court 84-74. Menorca was smashed by Granada in a road game 74-54. Gran Canaria won against Estudiantes at home 78-67. Bizkaia Bilbao managed to outperform Meridiano on the opponent's court 76-71.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 31 points and 8 rebounds by Andy Panko of Lagun Aro GBC.

Caja Laboral - Valencia 72-65

There was a minor upset in Vitoria where one of their biggest challengers Power Electronics Valencia (15-9) was defeated by sixth ranked Caja Laboral (15-9) 72-65 on Wednesday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Power Electronics Valencia won third quarter 21-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Caja Laboral won last quarter 20-14. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Power Electronics Valencia's players. Worth to mention a great performance of Bosnian-Croatian center Stanko Barac (217-86) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 5 rebounds and international swingman Fernando San Emeterio (198-84) who added 10 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists during the contest. Four Caja Laboral players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was guard Rafael Martinez (191-82) with 23 points and Serbian power forward Dusko Savanovic (204-83, agency: Beo Basket) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 rebounds. Power Electronics Valencia's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Defending champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Valencia and Bizkaia Bilbao. Caja Laboral will face Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (#7) in Madrid in the next round. Power Electronics Valencia will play at home against DKV Joventut (#11) in Badalona.
Top scorers:
Valencia: R.Martinez 23+2reb+1ast, J.Richardson 11+1reb, D.Savanovic 10+10reb+1ast, S.Lishchuk 7+4reb, N.De Colo 6+2reb+3ast, R.Javtokas 6+3reb
Caja Laboral: S.Barac 17+5reb+1ast, B.Oleson 16+4reb, M.Teletovic 12+9reb+1ast, F.San Emeterio 10+7reb+6ast, D.Logan 5, P.Ribas 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 92340


Regal Barca - Cajasol 73-60

Very predictable result when first ranked Regal FC Barcelona (20-4) defeated at home 8th ranked Cajasol (13-11) 73-60 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Regal FC Barcelona. Cajasol was better in third quarter 19-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Regal FC Barcelona made 22-of-24 free shots (91.7 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard Juan Carlos Navarro (192-80) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and the former international center Fran Vazquez (209-83) who added 10 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Regal FC Barcelona players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American center Paul Davis (211-84, college: Michigan St.) with 20 points and 7 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and American-French forward Tariq Kirksay (199-79, college: Iona) scored 6 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Regal FC Barcelona maintains first position with 20-4 record. Cajasol at the other side keeps the eighth place with 11 games lost. Regal FC Barcelona will face bottom-ranked Menorca Basquet (#18) in Mahon in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Cajasol will play at home against CAI Zaragoza (#13).
Top scorers:
Cajasol: P.Davis 20+7reb, L.Bullock 10+1reb+1ast, T.Urtasun 8+3reb+2ast, K.Ivanov 6+3reb+2ast, T.Satoransky 6+2reb, T.Kirksay 6+6reb+1ast
Regal Barca: J.Carlos Navarro 16+2reb+1ast, K.Perovic 15+1reb, A.Anderson 13+3reb+2ast, F.Vazquez 10+8reb, T.Morris 7+1reb, E.Lorbek 6+4reb+1ast
gschID: 92342


Unicaja - Manresa 75-51

Not a big story in a game when 15th ranked Assignia Manresa (8-16) was rolled over on the road by twelfth ranked Unicaja Malaga (12-12) 75-51 on Wednesday. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Unicaja Malaga's pressure prevailed and they won that period 28-5 extending their advantage to 24 points. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Assignia Manresa to just 5 points in fourth quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of Scottish power forward Robert Archibald (212-80, college: Illinois, agency: Priority Sports) who helped to win the game recording 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and American guard Gerald Fitch (191-82, college: Kentucky, agency: SportsTalent) who added 13 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was guard Daniel Lopez (188-82) with 11 points and guard Jordi Grimau (195-83) scored 10 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Unicaja Malaga moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Assignia Manresa at the other side keeps the fifteenth position with 16 games lost. Unicaja Malaga will face higher ranked Bizkaia Bilbao (#4) at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Assignia Manresa will play against Gran Canaria 2014 (#9) in Las Palmas.
Top scorers:
Manresa: D.Lopez 11+4reb+3ast, J.Grimau 10+5reb, M.Majstorovic 8+6reb, A.Alzamora 7+3reb, S.Gladyr 6+3reb+1ast, L.Lewis 4+6reb
Unicaja: G.Fitch 13+5reb+1ast, R.Archibald 11+7reb+5ast, T.McIntyre 10+3reb+5ast, J.Freeland 8+5reb+1ast, S.Blanco 8+3reb+3ast, U.Tripkovic 7
gschID: 92343


DKV Joventut - Valladolid 84-74

There was a surprise result in Badalona where twelfth ranked DKV Joventut (12-12) beat higher ranked Blancos de Rueda (14-10) 84-74 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 42-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. DKV Joventut looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Will McDonald (206-79, college: S.Florida) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds and forward Pere Tomas (202-89) who added 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. Four DKV Joventut players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Jason Robinson (196-80, college: Pikeville) with 18 points and Dominican forward Eulis Baez (201-82, college: W.Illinois) scored 11 points and 9 rebounds. DKV Joventut moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Blancos de Rueda at the other side keeps the sixth position with ten games lost. DKV Joventut will face higher ranked Power Electronics Valencia (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.
Top scorers:
Valladolid: J.Robinson 18+4reb, F.Van Lacke 14+1reb, E.Baez 11+9reb+2ast, M.Stanic 7+2reb+6ast, N.Martin 7+6reb+2ast, M.Slaughter 7+4reb
DKV Joventut: W.McDonald 24+11reb, P.Tomas 13+5reb+4ast, R.Robinson 11+2reb+3ast, D.Jelinek 10+1reb+1ast, J.Trias 10+2reb+5ast, Q.Hosley 8+6reb+6ast
gschID: 92344


Granada - Menorca 74-54

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 17th ranked Menorca Basquet (5-19) was outplayed on the road by eighteenth ranked CB Granada (5-19) 74-54 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by CB Granada. Menorca Basquet was better in second period 20-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Menorca Basquet 41-25 including 28 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of Brazilian center Paulo Prestes (210-88) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 10 points and 14 rebounds and American guard Coby Karl (196-83, college: Boise St.) who added 20 points (perfect from downtown making all five shots) during the contest. The best for the losing side was naturalized Brazilian center Caio Torres (211-87) with 11 points and U.S. Virgin Isl. Forward Cuthbert Victor (196-83, college: Murray St.) scored 12 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. CB Granada moved-up to seventeenth place, which they share with Menorca. Menorca Basquet lost seventh consecutive game. CB Granada will face higher ranked Asefa Estudiantes (#10) in Madrid in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Menorca Basquet will play at home against the league's leader Regal FC Barcelona (#1) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Menorca: C.Victor 12+4reb+1ast, C.Torres 11+4reb+2ast, I.Radenovic 10+5reb+1ast, M.Servera 8+1reb+1ast, J.Donaldson 7+3reb, R.Limonad 4+2reb+5ast
Granada: J.Stefansson 21+4reb+1ast, C.Karl 20+4reb+2ast, P.Prestes 10+14reb+3ast, A.Cesar Lima 8+5reb, A.Hernandez 5+1reb+2ast, J.Fernandez 5+4reb+2ast
gschID: 92345


Gran Canaria - Estudiantes 78-67

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams in Las Palmas where tenth ranked Gran Canaria 2014 (12-12) won against 9th ranked Asefa Estudiantes (12-12) 78-67 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 6 points at the halftime before their 47-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Gran Canaria 2014 forced 19 Asefa Estudiantes turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Jaycee Carroll (188-83, agency: Priority Sports) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and the other American import power forward Judson Wallace (205-82, college: Princeton, agency: Impact Basketball) who added 6 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Gran Canaria 2014's coach Pedro Martinez used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American forward Nik Caner-Medley (203-83, college: Maryland, agency: Priority Sports) with 24 points and 9 rebounds and American-Dominican power forward Josh Asselin (211-78, college: Michigan, agency: Duran International) scored 13 points and 5 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Gran Canaria 2014 moved-up to ninth place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Asefa Estudiantes. Gran Canaria 2014 will face Assignia Manresa (#15) on the road in the next round where they are favorite.
Top scorers:
Estudiantes: N.Caner-Medley 24+9reb+1ast, J.Asselin 13+5reb+1ast, J.Welsch 9+6reb, J.Granger 5+1reb+2ast, P.Jasen 5+2ast, A.Oliver 5+2reb+3ast
Gran Canaria: J.Carroll 23+1reb, T.Green 16+2reb+2ast, S.Nelson 10+1reb+1ast, J.Moran 8, J.Beiran 7+8reb+2ast, J.Wallace 6+11reb+3ast
gschID: 92346


Meridiano - Bizkaia Bilbao 71-76

Very expected game when 16th ranked Meridiano Alicante (7-17) was defeated at home by fifth ranked Bizkaia Bilbao (15-9) 76-71 on Thursday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Meridiano Alicante won third quarter 17-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bizkaia Bilbao made 16-of-16 free shots (100 percent !!!) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Alex Mumbru (202-79) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and Greek center Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-85, agency: FCM) who added 12 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was Lithuanian power forward Martynas Andriuskevicius (218-86, agency: Interperformances) with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and American forward Justin Doellman (206-85, college: Xavier) scored 11 points and 7 rebounds. Five Meridiano Alicante players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Bizkaia Bilbao have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Caja Laboral and Valencia. Meridiano Alicante lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 17 games lost. Bizkaia Bilbao will face Unicaja Malaga (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Meridiano Alicante will play against the league's second-placed Real Madrid (#2).
Top scorers:
Meridiano: M.Andriuskevicius 15+12reb, P.Llompart 15+1reb+2ast, M.Stojic 11+3reb+1ast, J.Doellman 11+7reb+3ast, A.Urtasun 11+1reb+1ast, T.Heurtel 8+2ast
Bizkaia Bilbao: A.Mumbru 17+2reb+2ast, D.Mavroeidis 12+6reb, M.Banic 11+4reb, C.Vasiliadis 10, A.Hervelle 7+3reb+2ast, A.Jackson 6+7reb+3ast
gschID: 92347


Lagun Aro GBC - Real Madrid 78-88 OT

Fourteenth-ranked Lagun Aro GBC (9-15) gave a tough game to second ranked Real Madrid (19-5) in San Sebastian on Thursday. The visitors from Madrid managed to secure only ten-point victory 88-78. However their fans expected much easier game. The game was mostly controlled by Real Madrid. Lagun Aro GBC was better in fourth quarter 24-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening, at least not yet. The game turned upside-down in the last quarter, where Lagun Aro GBC used huge pressure winning it 24-19 getting a tie at the end of regular time. They lost eventually overtime period 2-12. Real Madrid looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of international guard SerSergio Llull (190-87) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 4 assists and forward Carlos Suarez (202-86, agency: Court Side) who added 14 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Four Real Madrid players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Andy Panko (204-77, college: Lebanon Valley) with 31 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Jimmy Baron (191-86, college: Rhode Island) scored 16 points (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Real Madrid maintains second position with 19-5 record behind leader Regal Barca. Lagun Aro GBC at the other side keeps the fourteenth place with 15 games lost. Real Madrid will face Meridiano Alicante (#16) at home in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Lagun Aro GBC will play against Blancos de Rueda in Valladolid.
Top scorers:
Lagun Aro GBC: A.Panko 31+8reb, J.Baron 16+1ast, D.Doblas 8+3reb+1ast, J.Salgado 7+1reb+2ast, A.Miralles 7+5reb, D.Lorbek 5+1reb+1ast
Real Madrid: S.Llull 21+3reb+4ast, N.Mirotic 15+6reb, C.Suarez 14+6reb+2ast, P.Prigioni 10+1reb+10ast, N.Velickovic 6+3reb, D.Fischer 6+4reb
gschID: 92348




Stats Leaders-LEB Silver
Points Per Game
 Jonathan BARCELO
  Plasencia
  (192-F/G-79)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Barcelo, Plasencia17.3 
 2. Witt, Clavijo16.2 
 3. Ramsdell, Avila15.7 
 4. Ratzsch, Oviedo F.15.6 
 5. Bivia, Mallorca15.1 
 6. Bratton, Lan M.14.7 
 7. O''Leary, Oviedo F.14.7 
 8. Mortellaro, Lan M.14.6 
 9. Paez, Lan M.14.1 
 10. Garcia, Illescas13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Olaseni LAWAL
  Guadalajara
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Lawal, Guadalajara10.8 
 2. O''Leary, Oviedo F.9.3 
 3. Adams, Coruna8.8 
 4. Chubrevich, Illescas8.6 
 5. De Santana, Clavijo8.5 
 6. Mesa, Clavijo7.9 
 7. Mortellaro, Lan M.7.9 
 8. Larry, Regal F.7.5 
 9. Ramsdell, Avila7.4 
 10. Howard, Andorra7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Witt, Clavijo5.7 
 2. Uriz, Santurtzi5.0 
 3. Ibargutxi, Lan M.4.7 
 4. Lopez, Coruna4.7 
 5. Bivia, Mallorca4.2 
 6. Marco, ADT T.4.1 
 7. Rufian, Promobys3.6 
 8. Pampin, Mallorca3.3 
 9. Lopez, Avila3.3 
 10. Zamora, Andorra3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Jonathan BARCELO
  Plasencia
  (192-F/G-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Barcelo, Plasencia2.1 
 2. Adams, Coruna2.1 
 3. Uriz, Santurtzi2.0 
 4. Martinez, Plasencia1.8 
 5. Ramsey, Promobys1.7 
 6. Smith, Guadalajara1.7 
 7. Guirao, ADT T.1.7 
 8. Rueda, Plasencia1.7 
 9. Bratton, Lan M.1.6 
 10. Pampin, Mallorca1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Bismack BIYOMBO
  Fuenlabrada
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Biyombo, Illescas1.9 
 2. Mbaye, Regal F.1.8 
 3. Green, Mallorca1.6 
 4. Todorovic, Prat J.1.5 
 5. Lawal, Guadalajara1.3 
 6. Conde, Avila1.2 
 7. De Santana, Clavijo1.1 
 8. Cage, ADT Tarragona1.0 
 9. Chubrevich, Illescas0.9 
 10. Keefe, Promobys0.9 


Standings - LEB Gold
LEB Gold Standings
 1. CB Murcia 25-3 
 2. Obradoiro 24-4 
 3. Burgos 21-6 
 4. Leon 17-10 
 5. Caceres 16-12 
 6. La Laguna 14-13 
 7. Navarra 14-13 
 8. Melilla 14-13 
 9. Girona 14-14 
 10. Lleida 12-15 
 11. La Palma 11-16 
 12. Breogan 11-16 
 13. CB Tarragona 10-17 
 14. Clinicas Rincon 10-18 
 15. Huesca 9-18 
 16. Alcazar 9-18 
 17. Palencia 9-18 
 18. Ourense 6-22 


Standings - LEB Silver
LEB Silver Standings
 1. Clavijo 19-3 
 2. Mallorca 18-5 
 3. Andorra 16-6 
 4. Promobys 14-8 
 5. Plasencia 14-9 
 6. ADT Tarragona 13-10 
 7. Prat Juventud 12-11 
 8. Regal FC II 10-12 
 9. Avila 9-13 
 10. Oviedo Feve 9-13 
 11. Coruna 8-15 
 12. Guadalajara 7-16 
 13. Illescas 7-16 
 14. Lan Mobel ISB 7-16 
 15. Santurtzi 7-17 


Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Jaycee CARROLL
  Gran Canaria
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 17.8
 1. Carroll, Gran Canaria17.8 
 2. Navarro, Regal B.16.5 
 3. McDonald, DKV J.15.2 
 4. Baron, Lagun A.15.2 
 5. English, DKV J.15.1 
 6. Martinez, Valencia15.0 
 7. Caner-Medley, Estudi.14.4 
 8. Teletovic, Caja L.14.0 
 9. Kurz, Granada13.9 
 10. Bullock, Cajasol13.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Robert KURZ
  Art.Dragons
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 9.1
 1. Kurz, Granada9.1 
 2. Batista, Fuenlabr.8.4 
 3. Caner-Medley, Estudi.7.3 
 4. Barac, Caja Laboral7.1 
 5. Donaldson, Menorca6.8 
 6. Doellman, Meridiano6.4 
 7. Miralles, Lagun A.6.4 
 8. Wallace, Gran Canaria6.4 
 9. Trias, DKV Joventut6.3 
 10. Freeland, Unicaja6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja Laboral
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Huertas, Caja L.5.9 
 2. Cook, Valencia5.1 
 3. Valters, Fuenlabr.4.7 
 4. Rubio, Regal Barca4.7 
 5. Ciorciari, Menorca4.5 
 6. Colom, Fuenlabrada3.9 
 7. Uriz, Lagun A.3.9 
 8. San Miguel, Manre.3.8 
 9. Prigioni, Real Madrid3.8 
 10. Dumas, Valladolid3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Tariq KIRKSAY
  Cajasol
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Kirksay, Cajasol2.1 
 2. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.8 
 3. Robinson, DKV J.1.8 
 4. Victor, Menorca1.7 
 5. Calloway, Cajasol1.7 
 6. Davis, Cajasol1.7 
 7. Cook, Valencia1.7 
 8. San Miguel, Manre.1.7 
 9. Van Lacke, Valladolid1.7 
 10. Ayon, Fuenlabrada1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Bismack BIYOMBO
  Fuenlabrada
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Biyombo, Fuenlabr.2.1 
 2. Fischer, Real Madrid1.7 
 3. Vazquez, Regal B.1.5 
 4. Kurz, Granada1.3 
 5. Barnes, Valladolid1.3 
 6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada1.2 
 7. Majstorovic, Manre.1.2 
 8. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.1 
 9. Andriuskevic., Meridi.1.1 
 10. Savane, Gran C.1.1 


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


Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings
 1. Sundsvall 28-6 
 2. LF Basket 24-10 
 3. Norrkoping 21-9 
 4. Sodertalje 19-14 
 5. Solna 17-17 
 6. Uppsala 16-16 
 7. Boras 13-21 
 8. Jamtland 13-21 
 9. 08 8-25 
 10. Eco Orebro 6-26 


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Darius HARGROVE
  Jamtland
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 22.3
 1. Hargrove, Jamtland22.3 
 2. Brown, 0820.5 
 3. Smith, Sodertalje20.4 
 4. Rush, Sundsvall20.0 
 5. Smith, Uppsala19.6 
 6. Wesby, Sundsvall18.8 
 7. Palm, Boras18.7 
 8. McCoy, Boras18.5 
 9. Gunnarsson, Solna18.1 
 10. Kjellbom, Norrkoping16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Hlynur BAERINGSSON
  Sundsvall
  (200-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Baeringsson, Sunds.10.3 
 2. Palm, Boras10.0 
 3. McKnight, Boras8.9 
 4. Kosmalski, Solna8.6 
 5. Brown, 087.9 
 6. Kjellbom, Norrkoping7.8 
 7. Constantine, Solna7.8 
 8. Cipriano, Eco O.7.3 
 9. Walker, Solna7.3 
 10. Kohlmaier, Uppsala7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 6.4
 1. Mbemba, LF Basket6.4 
 2. Pleick, Eco Orebro5.7 
 3. Beck, 084.9 
 4. Mitchell, Norrkoping4.7 
 5. Smith, Uppsala4.6 
 6. McCoy, Boras4.6 
 7. Chuk, Sodertalje4.4 
 8. Gaidamaviciu., Norrko.4.4 
 9. Hellgren, Jamtland4.3 
 10. Baeringsson, Sunds.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Smith, Sodertalje3.4 
 2. Mbemba, LF Basket3.1 
 3. Smith, Uppsala1.9 
 4. Hargrove, Jamtland1.9 
 5. Rush, Sundsvall1.9 
 6. McCoy, Boras1.8 
 7. Baeringsson, Sunds.1.8 
 8. Hellgren, Jamtland1.8 
 9. Pleick, Eco Orebro1.7 
 10. Brown, 081.7 
Blocks Per Game
 John ROSENDAHL
  LF Basket
  (203-F/C-77)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Rosendahl, LF Ba.1.9 
 2. Salaam, Jamtland1.9 
 3. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.7 
 4. Palm, Boras1.5 
 5. Constantine, Solna1.3 
 6. Kohlmaier, Uppsala1.2 
 7. Cipriano, Eco O.1.2 
 8. Ayuba, Norrkoping1.0 
 9. Walker, Solna1.0 
 10. Galick, Sodertalje0.8 


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


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Ali KARADENIZ
  Trabzonspor
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 22.3
 1. Karadeniz, Trabzons.22.3 
 2. Kambala, Aliaga19.3 
 3. Smith, Karsiyaka19.3 
 4. Seibutis, Olin Edirne19.0 
 5. Gibson, Oyak R.18.1 
 6. Mays, Oyak Renault17.6 
 7. Randle, Aliaga17.5 
 8. Scales, Mersin17.4 
 9. Christopher, Antal.17.1 
 10. Barbour, Erdemir17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nedim YUCEL
  Mersin
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 11.3
 1. Yucel, Mersin11.3 
 2. Thomas, Erdemir11.2 
 3. Mays, Oyak Renault9.9 
 4. Samardjiski, Olin E.9.8 
 5. Wesson, Turk T.9.2 
 6. Aldemir, Karsiyaka8.5 
 7. Smith, Bornova8.3 
 8. Smith, Karsiyaka8.2 
 9. Sonkol, Bornova8.0 
 10. Karadeniz, Trabzons.8.0 
Assists Per Game
 David HOLSTON
  Karsiyaka
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Holston, Karsiyaka5.7 
 2. Ermis, Banvit5.6 
 3. Chatman, Besiktas5.4 
 4. Rasic, Trabzonspor5.4 
 5. Conroy, Oyak R.5.3 
 6. Rowe, Tofas4.9 
 7. Iverson, Besiktas4.7 
 8. Acik, Galatasaray4.6 
 9. Seibutis, Olin Edirne4.4 
 10. Akin, Olin Edirne4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Aubrey COLEMAN
  Austin T.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Coleman, Aliaga3.1 
 2. Mays, Oyak Renault2.4 
 3. Holston, Karsiyaka2.4 
 4. Grier, Mersin2.1 
 5. Waller, Oyak Renault2.1 
 6. Gibson, Oyak R.2.0 
 7. Guler, Antalya2.0 
 8. Prince, Antalya1.9 
 9. Rowe, Tofas1.9 
 10. Chatman, Besiktas1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Predrag SAMARDJISKI
  Olin Edirne
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 2
 1. Samardjiski, Olin E.2.0 
 2. Stiemsma, Turk T.1.9 
 3. Likholitov, Besiktas1.3 
 4. Johnson, Erdemir1.3 
 5. Francis, Bornova1.3 
 6. Aldemir, Karsiyaka1.2 
 7. Mays, Oyak Renault1.1 
 8. Ogilvy, Besiktas1.1 
 9. Ruzic, Tofas0.9 
 10. Karaman, Tofas0.8 


Banvit lands Juan Dixon - by Eurobasket News
Banvit announced signing of Juan Dixon (191-G-78, college: Maryland) for rest of the season. The former NBA player returns from a one-year ban set by FIBA. Dixon failed anti-doping test in February last year.
Juan Dixon started last season with Aris Thessaloniki averaging 11.6 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 7 league games. He also added 14.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.8 apg in four EuroCup games. In January, he signed a deal with Unicaja but played just seven games for them before the FIBA ban. He had 18.4 ppg and 3.5 rpg in four Spanish league games, plus 12.7 ppg and 2.3 rpg for 3 Euroleague appearances. Dixon played for the Washington Wizards on season 2008/09. He had 5.3 ppg, 1.4 rpg and 2.4 apg in 49 games. In the past, Dixon also was a member of the Toronto Raptors and Portland Trail Blazers. He started NBA career in 2002 with the Wizards, who selected him as 17th overall pick at the NBA Draft that same year.

Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Fener.Ulker 18-2 
 2. Galatasaray 16-4 
 3. Banvit 16-4 
 4. Efes Pilsen 15-6 
 5. Besiktas 13-7 
 6. Karsiyaka 13-7 
 7. Olin Edirne 12-8 
 8. Antalya 10-10 
 9. Turk Telekom 8-12 
 10. Trabzonspor 8-13 
 11. Erdemir 7-13 
 12. Tofas 7-13 
 13. Bornova 6-14 
 14. Aliaga 5-15 
 15. Mersin 4-16 
 16. Oyak Renault 3-17 


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Delaware HS: Red Lion takes pride to new level - by David Edole
NEWARK -- It is something not only the Red Lion Christian boys basketball team can wrap its arms around, it's something the entire school body can get behind -- a state championship dream.

Deon Edwin, a 6-foot-1 junior guard, and 6-4 sophomore forward Javier Martinez (93) helped keep Red Lion's ultimate athletic goal alive Thursday night.

Edwin and Martinez scored 17 points each and soaked up the rebounds as the top-seeded Lions overcame No. 5-seeded St. Elizabeth 56-50 in the semifinals of the DIAA Boys Basketball Tournament at the Carpenter Center on Thursday night.

Red Lion (20-3 overall) advances to the state championship game against Sanford on Saturday at 4 p.m. at the Carpenter Center. It will be the school's first chance for a state title in any sport.

'This is great for our school,' said Lions coach Tom Purse said. 'This is very good for our school. I don't think we've ever been to a state championship in any sport and so it's really good for our school ... and the kids know that.'

Red Lion had to fight an uphill battle against St. Elizabeth (19-4), which played a nearly perfect game until there were just under five minutes remaining.

That was when the Vikings, holding a 46-43 lead following Eric Patton's layup with 4:51 to play, began to misfire, while Red Lion began attacking the basket with regularity. The Lions outscored St. E's 13-4 from that point on.

Martinez sank a 3-pointer from the left baseline side of the arc that gave Red Lion a 54-48 advantage with 1:25 left and then he tipped a ball into the basket following a missed free-throw attempt with 13 seconds to go to produce the final.

Martinez also pulled down 13 rebounds. Norville Carey, a 6-foot-6 junior forward, contributed 14 points and nine rebounds for Red Lion, which sank 48 percent (24 of 50) of its shots from the floor.

Carey was somewhat discouraged that it took his team so long to get ahead of scrappy St. Elizabeth, which led for most of the game despite getting outrebounded 45-21 -- including 17-7 on the offensive glass. The Lions made the most of their 21 points they gained on second chances.

'We just had to work hard because we knew we had it but we weren't playing like it, so we had to get it together,' Carey said. 'We just had to play ball. Once we got it together we just had to play hard and go to the hole because we weren't doing that in the first half.'

St. Elizabeth led throughout most of the first half.

Senior guard Clinton Craft scored nine points in the opening eight minutes, including hitting a fadeaway jumper and adding another basket just before the buzzer, as the Vikings took a 16-12 lead.

Timothy Massado and Matthew Modica both drained 3-pointers during a 10-5 St. E spurt at the beginning of the second quarter as the Vikings went up 26-17 midway through the period.

'We didn't want to get off to a slow start, but they were like 5-for-13, they came out making some shots,' Purse said, of St. E. 'Fortunately, we've been in this situation before and the kids had confidence and know they can fight back and they did.'

Red Lion began attacking inside and finished the first half on an 8-3 run as it cut the Vikings' lead to 29-25 at halftime.

Red Lion seized control on a quick sequence down the stretch. Edwin scored a basket and drew a foul as the Lions went ahead 47-46 with 3:32 left.

Though Edwin missed his free throw, Angelo Blackson grabbed the rebound and drew a foul. Blackson sank both of his free throws as the Lions went up 49-46, a margin they would not relinquish.

From there, St. Elizabeth appeared to wear down.

'We were just determined to win, we came out strong and played strong, but they just oversized us at the end,' Patton said. 'We had it. We were confident coming into halftime but in the second half our shots weren't falling so that's what did it.'

Patton, a 6-foot-4 sophomore forward, scored 15 points and pulled down eight rebounds and Craft added 13 points for St. Elizabeth.

'This is our first time going to a championship,' Edwin said. 'Plus, they've had no Christian schools win the championship, so I'm just trying to do something for our school and for God. It isn't all about me. It's about my team and a dream come true.'

Red Lion Christian 56, St. Elizabeth 50
St. Elizabeth 16 13 10 11-50

Red Lion Christian 12 13 14 17-56

ST. ELIZABETH-A.Patton 6-15 2-4 15, E.Patton 1-2 0-0 2, Massado 3-14 0-0 9, Modica 2-6 0-0 5, Craft 6-11 0-0 13, Doherty 3-8 0-0 6. Totals 21-56 2-4 50.

RED LION CHRISTIAN-Swanston 0-2 1-2 1, Carey 7-15 0-1 14, Blackson 1-3 3-4 5, Edwin 8-13 0-2 17, Martinez 7-11 0-0 17, Garraway 0-1 0-0 0, Wilson 0-1 0-0 0, Creamer 1-1 0-2 2, Bradley 0-3 0-0 0. Totals 24-50 4-11 56.

3-point goals-SE 6-17 (Massado 3-7, A.Patton 1-3, Craft 1-3, Modica 1-4), RLC 4-11 (Martinez 3-4, Edwin 1-4, Swanston 0-1, Garraway 0-1, Bradley 0-1). Rebounds-SE 21 (Patton 8), RLC 45 (Martinez 13). Assists-SE 12 (Massado 4, Modica 4), RLC 9 (Swanston 3, Edwin 3).

Del

Walker Named Top-Five Finalist For Bob Cousy Award - by David Edole
Storrs, Conn. - Kemba Walker continues to be mentioned for the top national awards as he was named a top-five finalist for the Bob Cousy Award presented to the nation's top point guard, announced today by the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. Walker ranks fourth in the NCAA with 23.4 points per game and is one of only four players in the nation to average 20 points, five rebounds and four assists.

An original list of 70 plus candidates made up of players from around the country was trimmed by a Hall of Fame appointed, nationally based committee to 20, down to 10 and now five candidates remain in consideration for one of college basketball's most prestigious awards. The winner of the 2011 Bob Cousy Award will be announced on April 1 with the award presentation coming at the Final Four on Monday April 4 as part of the Basketball Hall of Fame Class Announcement.

Walker has led Connecticut to a 24-9 record this season and a No. 19/21 ranking. Walker has truly shined for UConn on the biggest stages. In seven games against top-10 teams, he's led UConn to a 5-2 record with 29 points, 4.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game.

Walker has hit game-winning or go-ahead shots in the final three minutes of six games this season, highlighted by victories over No. 3 Pittsburgh, No. 12 Texas, No. 7 Villanova and No. 2 Michigan State.

UConn most recently defeated No. 3 Pittsburgh with a Walker buzzer beater in the BIG EAST Tournament Quarterfinals on March 10. The Huskies will face Syracuse in the BIG EAST Semifinals at Madison Square Garden on Friday, March 11. That game will be played at 7:00 p.m. on ESPN.

Bob Cousy Award Finalists:
Norris Cole - Cleveland State
Jimmer Fredette - BYU
Nolan Smith - Duke
Jordan Taylor - Wisconsin
Kemba Walker - Connecticut


Walker Named USBWA District I Player of the Year - by David Edole
Storrs, Conn. - Another day, another award for UConn junior guard Kemba Walker (185-G-90) (Bronx, N.Y.) as he was named District I Player of the Year, as announced today (March 10) by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association. Walker was one of 10 players named to the All-District I Team. District I is comprised of Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut.

The award marks the second time in his career that Walker has been named to the USBWA All-District Team after being named in 2009-10. This is the third time in four years that a Connecticut player has been named the District I Player of the Year. Hasheem Thabeet and A.J. Price took home Player of the Year honors in 2008-09 and 2007-08, respectively.

Walker is a staple on many of the top postseason awards lists including the Oscar Robertson Trophy, the Wooden Award, the Naismith Award and the Bob Cousy Award as the nation's top point guard. He was previously named the Sporting News Midseason Player of the Year. He's scored 30 or more points eight times this season while breaking 20 points in 23 games.

Walker has led Connecticut to a 24-9 record this season and a No. 19/21 ranking. Walker has truly shined for UConn on the biggest stages. In seven games against top-10 teams, he's led UConn to a 5-2 record with 29 points, 4.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game.

Walker has hit game-winning or go-ahead shots in the final three minutes of six games this season, highlighted by victories over No. 3 Pittsburgh, No. 12 Texas, No. 7 Villanova and No. 2 Michigan State.

No. 9 seeded UConn most recently defeated No. 1 Pittsburgh with a Walker buzzer beater in the BIG EAST Tournament Quarterfinals on March 10. The Huskies will face No. 4 Syracuse in the BIG EAST Semifinals at Madison Square Garden on Friday, March 11. That game will be played at 7:00 p.m. on ESPN.



PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Kemba Walker, Connecticut

COACH OF THE YEAR

Ed Cooley, Fairfield

ALL-DISTRICT TEAM

Marshon Brooks, Providence

Evan Fjeld, Vermont

John Holland, Boston University

Ken Horton, Central Connecticut St.

Delroy James, Rhode Island

Reggie Jackson, Boston College

Greg Mangano, Yale

Derek Needham, Fairfield

Kemba Walker, Connecticut

Keith Wright, Harvard


Delaware HS: Khallid Hart's Sanford too strong for Amadius Der-weer and concord Hs - by David Edole
NEWARK -- It wasn't pretty by any means as both Concord and Sanford shot under 30 percent.

But to Sanford, it doesn't matter.

The Warriors made just enough shots and just enough free throws to hold off the Raiders 46-43 in the semifinals of the DIAA Boys Basketball Tournament at the Carpenter Center on Thursday night.

No. 3 seed Sanford (21-2) will try to repeat as state champions on Saturday, when it will face top seed Red Lion Christian (20-3).

The second-seeded Raiders' season ended at 21-2.

'We expected that,' Sanford senior Deon Jones said about the relentless defensive pressure by the Raiders. 'We knew they were going to play hard and that they would pressure us, try to force us to panic.'

It almost worked.

Jones had a game-high 18 points, but he, like the rest of the Warriors, had to work for every single point.

'Nah,' Jones said with a laugh. 'We were calm and cool.'

It didn't seem that way after the Raiders had cut Sanford's 13-point lead down to four midway through the fourth quarter. Then the Warriors missed five straight free throws. And after Concord's Aaron Burton made two free throws, Sanford's lead was down to two with 1:59 left.

But Dominique Powell took a no-look pass under the basket from Trevor Cooney and scored to put the lead back up to four with 1:25 remaining.

Powell then calmly hit two free throws with 21.3 seconds left to put the Warriors back in front by four.

It was barely enough.

Concord's Keith Yancey scored with 2 seconds left to get the deficit down to two. After Cooney made 1 of 2 free throws, the Raiders had one last chance to force overtime. But Deshawn Lowman's shot from halfcourt missed as the buzzer sounded.

Then Sanford exhaled.

The Warriors shot just 28.2 percent. Yet they won because they held Concord to 28.8 percent shooting.

Aaron Burton led Concord with 14 points.

'It wasn't the prettiest of games,' Sanford coach Stan Waterman said. 'But we'll take it. We were able to hold them off with some tough defense.'

It was the second straight year that Sanford ended Concord's season in the semifinal game of the state tournament as the Raiders missed another chance to win their first state championship since 1979.

'It's disappointing,' Concord coach Ralph Flowers said. 'We were struggling to put the ball in the hole. I'm really proud of the way our kids fought back. If we would have had three more minutes, we would have been doing OK.'

But the Raiders got off to a slow start. They shot just 22.7 percent in the first half, including three misses from underneath the basket as the half ended.

Sanford wasn't much better, shooting just 30 percent in the first half. But the Warriors were able to take advantage of their opportunities, and they also managed to get to the free-throw line.

Jones scored nine of Sanford's points in the first quarter, which was two more points than Concord scored that period. His 3-point play in the first minute of the second quarter gave the Warriors a nine-point lead. They stretched it to 10 on Powell's 3-pointer with 2:37 left.

Sanford's lead was at 13 when Jones made a 3-point play with 6:52 remaining in the third quarter.

Then Concord got relatively hot, going on a 9-3 run to get to within seven heading into the fourth quarter.

That only set the stage for the fourth quarter, when Sanford couldn't make a shot or a free throw while Concord crept closer and closer.

Jones, however, remained confident.

'We were fine,' he said. 'We knew we were going to pull it out.'