EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/19/2011

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Men News

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


Standings
ACPBL Standings
 1. Norfolk TB 10-2 
 2. Garden St. R. 10-3 
 3. New York L. 10-4 
 4. Beltway B. 7-5 
 5. Buffalo S. 7-6 
 6. Tri-City Suns 2-6 
 7. Hudson Valley 2-10 
 8. Wildkatz 2-12 


ACPBL week 14 recap: Brian Graves named Player of the Week - by Gianni Pascucci
After its fourteenth week in the league's inaugural season, the Atlantic Coast Professional Basketball League announced that Brian Graves (6'2''-G-85, college: Catawba) of the Tru Hope Trailblazers has won the Player of the Week award for the second time this season. Graves led the Trailblazers with 23 points, 15 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 steal and three 3-point shots made in a 102-92 win over the Garden State Rebels. With the win the Tru Hope Trailblazers clinched the ACPBL regular season championship and the #1 seed in the ACPBL playoffs to be held March 25-27 in Chesapeake, VA @ Atlantic Shores Christian High School.
Below is the full recap of week #14 complete with scores and top performers, complete stats are available at www.acpbl.com

HUDSON VALLEY (2-10) 100 - BUFFALO STAMPEDE (7-6) 106

WESTCHESTER WILDKATZ (2-12) 104 - NEW YORK LIONS (10-4) 116
Top performers: Westchester WildKatz: Kenny Gethers (6'4''-G/F-85, college: RIT) 15 points, 23 rebounds (all-time ACPBL rebounding record), 7 assists, 1 steal. New York Lions: J.J. Walsh (6'5''-F-85, college: St.Joseph's (NY)) 21 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block.

GARDEN STATE REBELS (10-3) 92 - TRU HOPE TRAILBLAZERS (10-2) 102
Top performers: Garden State Rebels: Justin Carter (6'3''-G, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Rutgers-Newark) 25 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assist, 2 steals. Tru Hope Trailblazers: Brian Graves 23 points, 5 rebounds, 15 assists, 1 steal.

HUDSON VALLEY KINGZ (2-10) 89 - NEW YORK LIONS (10-4) 119


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


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Michael LEE
  Radnicki
  (207-F-86)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Lee, Radnicki19.6 
 2. Zoric, KK.19.4 
 3. Marsh, Crvena Z.19.2 
 4. Macvan, Hemofarm19.2 
 5. Bogdanovic, Cibona18.9 
 6. Edwards, Cedevita17.5 
 7. Draper, Cedevita16.9 
 8. Car, Zadar16.3 
 9. Dragicevic, Buduc.16.3 
 10. Chase, Igokea16.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Zoric, KK.8.2 
 2. Harvey, Igokea7.1 
 3. Dragicevic, Buduc.7.0 
 4. Macvan, Hemofarm6.8 
 5. Kasun, KK.6.4 
 6. Necas, CEZ Nymburk6.4 
 7. Gist, Partizan6.2 
 8. Lee, Radnicki5.9 
 9. Savovic, Hemofarm5.8 
 10. Benda, CEZ Nymburk5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Miljan PAVKOVIC
  Hemofarm
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Pavkovic, Hemofarm5.2 
 2. Draper, Cedevita5.1 
 3. Markovic, Radnicki4.9 
 4. Morovic, Siroki TT4.3 
 5. Chase, Igokea4.0 
 6. Ilievski, Union O.3.9 
 7. Renfroe, KK.3.8 
 8. Car, Zadar3.6 
 9. Bazdaric, Cedevita3.5 
 10. Nissim, CEZ N.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Dontaye DRAPER
  Cedevita
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Draper, Cedevita2.2 
 2. Stemberger, Siroki T.2.1 
 3. Lee, Radnicki2.0 
 4. Car, Zadar2.0 
 5. Pumprla, CEZ N.1.9 
 6. Renfroe, KK.1.8 
 7. Cakarevic, Radnicki1.8 
 8. Dragic, Krka1.7 
 9. Ozbolt, Union O.1.6 
 10. Radosevic, Cibona1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Zoric, KK.1.3 
 2. Nikolic, Crvena Z.1.0 
 3. Shermadini, Union O.0.9 
 4. Dragicevic, Buduc.0.9 
 5. Radosevic, Cibona0.9 
 6. Kasun, KK.0.9 
 7. Gist, Partizan0.8 
 8. Jawai, Partizan0.7 
 9. Macvan, Hemofarm0.7 
 10. Edwards, Cedevita0.7 


Adriatic League round 26 best performance: Mario Kasun - by Eurobasket News
Center Mario Kasun (213-C-80) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 21 points and 10 rebounds, while his team crushed Crvena Zvezda (8-18) with 22-point margin 107-85. KK Zagreb CO finished as No.5 Adriatic League and failed to reach the Final Four. Kasun turned to be KK Zagreb CO's top player in his first season with the team. Mario Kasun made solid league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 6.4rpg) and averages impressive 63.3% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old Croatian Vedran Morovic (184-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) of Siroki TT. Morovic had a very good evening with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. It was enough for Siroki TT to edge the lower-ranked Zadar (#14, 7-19) 80-74. Morovic is a newcomer at Siroki TT, but is already one of team's top players. Siroki finished the season as No.9 with 12-14 record.

Third on the list of top players last round was another KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje's star - Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84). Zoric scored 24 points and grabbed nine rebounds. He was another key player of KK Zagreb CO, helping his team with a 107-85 easy win against the lower-ranked Crvena Zvezda (8-18). Zoric had a great season in Adriatic League. He made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.4ppg (2nd best) and rebounds with 8.2rpg (#1 in league). He also has 1.3bpg and FGP: 57.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Dionte Christmas (196-G) of CEZ Nymburk - 28 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) of Buducnost - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) of Cedevita - 21 points and 4 rebounds
7. Jan Vesely (211-F-90) of Partizan - 21 points
8. Marko Simonovic (202-F-86) of Buducnost - 23 points and 6 rebounds
9. Miralem Halilovic (206-F-91) of KK Zagreb CO - 11 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Brian Chase (178-G-81) of Igokea - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists

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

*****************************************************
  ANGOLA   


Angola Cup - semi finals - by Antonio Santos
On the 1st game of the semi-finals of the Angola Cup 100 x 91 with 59 x 47 at the half.
Box score
1 de Agosto:
Filipe Abro 5pt, Armando Costa 6pt,Adilson Baza, Mrio Correia 20pt, Joaquim Gomes 12pt , Felizardo Ambrosio 12pt ,Vladimir Jeronimo 6pt, Helder Ortet 3pt, Adolfo Quimbamba 2pt ,Carlos Almeida 10pt , Miguel Lutonda 13pt, Karlton Mims 11pt ; coach Luis Magalhes
Recreativo do Libolo:
Domingos Bonifacio 15pt, Olimpio Cipriano 17pt, Francisco Sousa 2pt, Edson Ndoniema 9pt , Mayzer Alexandre 5pt, Abdel Moussa 2pt , Simo Santos, Leonel Paulo 9pt , Abdel Gomes, Reggie Moore 25pt , Feliciano Camacho 7pt, Edgar Chocolate; coach Raul Duarte

On the other game Petro beat Inter 78 x 63 with 38 x 26 at hal time. Rod Nealy score 33pt for Petro

2nd game will be play this evening.

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


Monte Hermoso recruit Reque Newsome - by Eurobasket News
Monte Hermoso inked a deal with Reque Newsome (204-C-81, college: S.Indiana). He will replace Chuck Robinson (201-F-72, agency: Dream Team Management, college: E.Carolina) on the roster. The US-Uruguayan centre played for Malvin this season. He tallied 19.7 points, 7.7 boards and 1.7 assists per Liga Sudamericana game. In LUB Reque Newsome notched 14.2 points, 8.3 boards, 1.9 assists and 1.7 steals per appearance. Last season the centre also played in Uruguay and Argentina. He started the season in Atletico Olimpia. Later Reque Newsome moved to Estudiantes de Bahia Blanca in LigaA. His stats read 13.8 points, 7.7 boards and 1.7 blocks per game. Reque Newsome was named Latinbasket.com All-Uruguay LUB Player of the Year in 2011.


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  AUSTRALIA   


Stats Leaders - NBL
Points Per Game
 Kirk PENNEY
  Breakers
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 20.6
 1. Penney, Breakers20.6 
 2. Ervin, Hawks20.3 
 3. Redhage, Wildcats18.0 
 4. Williams, Tigers17.6 
 5. Khazzouh, Sydney K.17.6 
 6. Worthington, Blaze16.8 
 7. Clark, Blaze16.8 
 8. Wilkinson, Breakers16.1 
 9. Ballinger, 36ers15.3 
 10. Devendorf, Tigers14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.10.2 
 2. Davidson, Hawks8.2 
 3. Vukona, Breakers7.7 
 4. Nevill, Tigers7.4 
 5. Worthington, Blaze7.0 
 6. Crosswhite, Taipa.6.9 
 7. Burston, Tigers6.8 
 8. Williams, Tigers6.8 
 9. Schenscher, Croco.6.8 
 10. Clark, Blaze6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Corey WILLIAMS
  Tigers
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 6
 1. Williams, Tigers6.0 
 2. Gibson, Blaze5.4 
 3. Ervin, Hawks4.5 
 4. Carter, 36ers4.2 
 5. Braswell, Breakers4.2 
 6. Saville, Hawks4.2 
 7. Shannon, 36ers4.2 
 8. Ubaka, Taipans3.9 
 9. Blalock, Crocodiles3.5 
 10. DeVries, 36ers3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Martin, Wildcats2.3 
 2. Saville, Hawks1.5 
 3. Williams, Tigers1.5 
 4. Carter, 36ers1.4 
 5. Ervin, Hawks1.4 
 6. Crawford, Croco.1.4 
 7. Tovey, Wildcats1.3 
 8. Braswell, Breakers1.3 
 9. Dorsey, Taipans1.2 
 10. Ellis, Crocodiles1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Adam BALLINGER
  36ers
  (205-F-79)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Ballinger, 36ers1.9 
 2. Khazzouh, Sydney K.1.9 
 3. Clark, Blaze1.2 
 4. Nevill, Tigers1.1 
 5. Worthington, Blaze1.1 
 6. Schenscher, Croco.1.1 
 7. Crosswhite, Taipa.1.0 
 8. Freeman, Croco.0.9 
 9. Gilder, Sydney K.0.8 
 10. Sanders, Sydney K.0.8 


Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Breakers 20-6 
 2. Crocodiles 16-10 
 3. Wildcats 16-11 
 4. Hawks 14-12 
 5. Taipans 13-12 
 6. Blaze 11-14 
 7. Tigers 10-15 
 8. 36ers 8-18 
 9. Sydney K. 8-18 


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  AUSTRIA   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Stjepan STAZIC
  Furstenfeld
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.4
 1. Stazic, BC Vienna26.4 
 2. Vay, Arkadia20.0 
 3. Kennedy, Worth.19.4 
 4. Brokenboroug., Wel.18.9 
 5. Houston, Arkadia18.2 
 6. Shavies, Furstenf.17.8 
 7. Mayes, Gmunden17.4 
 8. Heard, Gussing17.3 
 9. Nagler, Klostern.16.3 
 10. Ray, Furstenfeld16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Russell HICKS
  Furstenfeld
  (213-C-85)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Hicks, BC Vienna9.7 
 2. Heard, Gussing9.3 
 3. Johnson, Oberwart8.6 
 4. Stazic, BC Vienna7.9 
 5. Volcic, Oberwart7.8 
 6. Vay, Arkadia7.7 
 7. Mayer, Gmunden7.4 
 8. Stegnjaic, UBSC G.7.4 
 9. Graham, UBSC G.7.4 
 10. Djuric, Gussing7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Anthony SHAVIES
  Furstenfeld
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Shavies, Furstenf.7.9 
 2. Carr, BC Vienna7.3 
 3. Holcomb-Faye, Wels6.6 
 4. Danek, Arkadia6.0 
 5. Schreiner, St.Po.5.6 
 6. Miletic, UBSC G.4.6 
 7. Parker, Oberwart4.5 
 8. Boylan, Gmunden4.4 
 9. Stazic, BC Vienna4.4 
 10. Lanegger, Kapfe.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Thomas SCHREINER
  St.Polten
  (195-G-87)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Schreiner, St.Po.2.4 
 2. Boylan, Gmunden2.3 
 3. Shavies, Furstenf.2.3 
 4. Jandl, St.Polten2.2 
 5. Ray, Furstenfeld2.1 
 6. Parker, Oberwart2.1 
 7. Vay, Arkadia1.8 
 8. Stazic, BC Vienna1.7 
 9. Danek, Arkadia1.7 
 10. Artner, Oberwart1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Russell HICKS
  Furstenfeld
  (213-C-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Hicks, BC Vienna2.3 
 2. Graham, UBSC G.1.5 
 3. Hampton, Furstenf.1.3 
 4. Hicks, Furstenfeld1.2 
 5. Pekovic, BC Vienna1.1 
 6. Slack, Gmunden1.0 
 7. Sally, Oberwart1.0 
 8. Vay, Arkadia1.0 
 9. Miljkovic, BC Vi.0.9 
 10. Heard, Gussing0.8 


*****************************************************
  BELARUS   


Premier League Round 9: Vitalyur-RGUOR defeats Borifsen in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 9 in the Premier League took place in Minsk. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of second-best Borifsen (14-23) to fourth ranked Vitalyur-RGUOR (5-32) 69-68 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Borifsen. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 69-68. Vitalyur-RGUOR maintains fourth place with 5-32 record. Borifsen at the other side keeps the second position with 23 games lost. Vitalyur-RGUOR are again looking forward to face league's second-placed Borifsen in Mogilev in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. The game between Top Four teams took place in Minsk. 3rd placed host BGUIR-RCOR (6-31) lost to first ranked Lokomotiv (22-15) 81-69. Lokomotiv have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 22-15 record. BGUIR-RCOR lost eighth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the third position with 31 games lost. Lokomotiv will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. BGUIR-RCOR will play again at home against the league's leader Lokomotiv in Vitebsk and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Gomel. 4th placed host Sozh Gomel (18-19) lost to second ranked Grodno-93 (24-13) 99-83. Grodno-93 maintains second place with 24-13 record having just -2 point less than leader Minsk-2006. Sozh Gomel lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the fourth position with 19 games lost. Grodno-93 will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Sozh Gomel will play again against the league's second-placed Grodno-93 (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Vitalyur - Borifsen 69-68

The most exciting game of round 9 in the Premier League took place in Minsk. This derby game ended with only one-point defeat on the road of second-best Borifsen (14-23) to fourth ranked Vitalyur-RGUOR (5-32) 69-68 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Borifsen. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 69-68. Vitalyur-RGUOR maintains fourth place with 5-32 record. Borifsen at the other side keeps the second position with 23 games lost. Vitalyur-RGUOR are again looking forward to face league's second-placed Borifsen in Mogilev in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
gschID: 124232


BGUIR-RCOR - Lokomotiv 69-81

The game between Top Four teams took place in Minsk. 3rd placed host BGUIR-RCOR (6-31) lost to first ranked Lokomotiv (22-15) 81-69. BGUIR-RCOR was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 22-8 charge of Lokomotiv, which allowed them to win the game. Lokomotiv have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place with 22-15 record. BGUIR-RCOR lost eighth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the third position with 31 games lost. Lokomotiv will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. BGUIR-RCOR will play again at home against the league's leader Lokomotiv in Vitebsk and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 124233


Sozh Gomel - Grodno-93 83-99

The game between Top Four teams took place in Gomel. 4th placed host Sozh Gomel (18-19) lost to second ranked Grodno-93 (24-13) 99-83. The game without a history. Grodno-93 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Grodno-93 maintains second place with 24-13 record having just -2 point less than leader Minsk-2006. Sozh Gomel lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the fourth position with 19 games lost. Grodno-93 will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Sozh Gomel will play again against the league's second-placed Grodno-93 (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 124231




Tywain McKee leaves Minsk-2006 and joins Triumph - by Eurobasket News
Tywain McKee (188-G-86, college: Coppin St.) leaves Minsk-2006 for Triumph and will finish the season with the Russian team. The American player had a great season in Belarus but after VTB League end season moved to Russia.
Before coming to Belarus Tywain McKee played for Wollongong Hawks (Australia-NBL), and was the third top-scorer in the League averaging 17.9ppg, 4.8rpg, Assists-3 (4.5apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 65.4%
In his last game for Minsk-2006 in VTB League Russian CSKA Moscow faced 4th ranked Belarusian Minsk-2006. Host CSKA Moscow (9-1) defeated guests from Minsk (4-6) 82-72. The game was mostly controlled by CSKA Moscow. Minsk-2006 was better in third quarter 33-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American guard Tywain McKee replied with 22 points and Vincentian center Shawn King (208-82, college: ORU) added 14 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Minsk-2006.
In VTB League Tywain McKee averaged 14.4 points per game. He laso had 5.5 rebounds per game and 3.1 assists.



Standings - Premier League
Premier Standings
Group A
 1. Minsk-2006 36-0 
 2. Grodno-93 25-13 
 3. OZAA Osipov. 22-14 
 4. Sozh Gomel 18-20 
Group B
 1. Lokomotiv 22-15 
 2. Borifsen 15-23 
 3. BGUIR-RCOR 6-31 
 4. Vitalyur 5-33 


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


Vedran Morovic helps Siroki to get another victory, Igokea losses in Zagreb - by Eurobasket News
The last round of Adriatic league regular season was played on Tuesday and Wednesday. Bosnian teams Siroki and Igokea registered one win and one defeat. Siroki finished as No.9 with 12-14 record, while Igokea is No.11 with 11-15 score.
Siroki TT Kabeli finished the competition with 80-74 victory against Zadar. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 21-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Siroki TT Kabeli made 20-of-24 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was Croatian guard Vedran Morovic (184-G-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Olney Central CC) collected 19 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals. Morovic once again was the second MVP of the round. Croatian guard Sinisa Stemberger (195-G-79) chipped in 13 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Siroki TT Kabeli's coach Ivan Velic used a ten-player rotation in this game. American forward Brandon Brown produced 21 points and 5 rebounds and swingman Marko Car added 14 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists and 4 steals respectively for the guests.
Igokea was defeated by seventh ranked Croatian Cedevita 79-72 on the road. The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 47-31 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Cedevita made 26-of-30 free shots (86.7 percent) during the game, while Igokea only scored three points from the stripe. Cedevita forced 24 Igokea turnovers. Strangely Igokea outrebounded Cedevita 29-17 including 23 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was swingman Marino Bazdaric who scored 20 points and 5 assists. Forward Damjan Rudez chipped in 21 points and 4 steals. American guard Brian Chase (178-G-81, college: Virginia Tech) produced 24 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import center Donnell Harvey (203-C-80, college: Florida) added 12 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests.

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


Easy 21st victory for Lukoil Academic - by Vladi Lazarova
Bulgarian champion and National Cup winner for 2010/2011 Lukoil Academic took an easy 21st consecutive victory in Bulgarian league tonight after beating Rilski sportist by 93:85 on the road. Dominic James (180-G-86, college: Marquette) led the scorers for the winning team with 18 points and other two US players of The students - Travis Peterson (208-C-85, agency: Edge Sports, college: Samford) and Devin Green (201-G/F-82, college: Hampton) finished with 16 and 13 pts. Peterson added 7 rebounds against his former club. He spent in Samokov two seasons before moving to the best Bulgarian club last summer. The captain of the squad Todor Stoykov (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances) added 9 pts with 3 assists for 22 minutes on the court and another Bulgarian National player - Veselin Veselinov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Virginia St.) came with 10 pts off the bench.

After this game Lukoil is on the top of the standings without loss from the beginning of the season in NBL.




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


Standings - D1
LBS Standings
 1. ARBA San Ram. 0-0 
 2. Barva 0-0 
 3. Cartago 0-0 
 4. Escazu 0-0 
 5. Liceo 0-0 
 6. Perez Zeledon 0-0 
 7. Santa Cecilia 0-0 
 8. UCR 0-0 


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


2010-11 Czech Cup Quarterfinals: Favorites Advance - by Surujh Roopnarine
Four quarterfinal matchups took place last night as eight teams competed in the last eight of the 2010-11 Czech Cup, culminating in the Finals matchup this Saturday in Opava. The semifinal matchups are set as Prostejov and Decin will square off in one game, while Novy Jicin and Nymburk face off in the second tonight.

BK Decin (70) vs. NH Ostrava (62)
Ostrava as they fell behind by 14 at the half and could not recover in the fourth, falling to Decin 70-62. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) scored a game-high 16 points for Decin which forced 18 turnovers from Ostrava as they dominated for most of the middle part of the contest, then holding on at the end for the eight point victory.
DECIN: Pavel Houska (16pts+6reb), William Hatcher (12pts), Miroslav Soukup (6pts+10reb), Lubos Stria (9pts)
OSTRAVA: Marek Stuchly (196-F-75) (12pts), Alton Mason (10pts+5ast), Lukas Palyza (7pts), Cezary Trybanski (4pts+6reb)

BK Prostejov (76) vs. BK JIP Pardubice (75)
The match of the day featured two big-time teams in 1st stage winners Prostejov and BK JIP Pardubice.
Close throughout, Prostejov took a three point lead into the fourth quarter, Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St.) and Kyle Landry helped seal the one-point victory. An evenly played game throughout, Prostejov was slightly better from the free-throw line, making 22 of 27 attempts while Pardubice missed eight of their 27 attempts on the night. Petr Bohacik (202-F-85)s 16 points, 10 rebounds performance was not enough for Pardubice on this night.
PROSTEJOV: Benas Veikalas (18pts), Kyle Landry (14pts+5reb), Eugene Lawrence (12pts+6reb+6reb+7to), David Marek (11pts)
PARDUBICE: Petr Bohacik (16pts+10reb), Zbynek Pospisil (13pts+5reb), Derek Wright (10pts), Marcus Arnold (8pts+5reb)

BK B&W Opava (56) vs. CEZ Nymburk (96)
European competition play behind them CEZ Nymburk is back to concentrating on what they do best; dominating the competition in the Czech Republic. It started with Opava, whom they thrashed by 40 points, 96-56. The outcome was academic after a blistering start left the defending NBL Champions up 30-14 after the first quarter. Dionte Christmas (196-G, college: Temple), who had his best game of the season with Nymburk in their last Adriatic League contest, kept the hot streak going, scoring a game-high 18 points, including four of seven shooting from behind the arc.
OPAVA: Jakub Blazek (203-F-80) (13pts+7reb), Jakub Sirina (9pts), Martin Miklosik (8pts+9reb), Radim Klecka (7pts)
NYMBURK: Dionte Christmas (18pts), Ales Chan (12pts+6reb), Pavel Slezak (12pts), Ladislav Sokolovsky (11pts)

UNIBON Nov Jicn (107) vs. BK st nad Labem (68)
On paper the most lopsided match of the day, as perennial power Novy Jicin squared off against First Leaguers Usti Nad Labem. Though the game played out as predicted, Usti was able to display its true star power, in the form of American Import Thad Thaddeus McFadden (188-G-87, college: Fairmont St.). Thaddeus McFadden, a 6-2 guard from NCAA DII Fairmont State University has spent the last two seasons dominating the competition in the Czech Republics second division, and showed off his prowess in a rare opportunity against a star-studded Novy Jicin club. Thaddeus McFadden exploded for game highs 29 points and nine rebounds, but his support was not there as the more experienced and talented Novy Jicin squad cruised to the eventual 41 point victory.
NOVY JICIN: Wesley Channels (190-G-88, college: Austin Peay St.) (21pts+6ast), Corey Muirhead (17pts), Ondrej Soska (14pts+7reb), David Steffel (12pts+6reb)
USTI NAD LABEM: Thad Thaddeus McFadden (29pts+9reb), Vladimir Hejl (10pts), Antwann Cosey (6pts+4reb)

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


Vaerlose is a success despite Colas and McFarlane leaving. - by Thomas Soltau
This year's CDL newcomer Vaerlose BBK have actually done pretty well in their first year back - making the playoffs and avoiding relegation is quite good for a first season.

Sadly it seems that lately there was been a lot of confusion surrounding the team, and not all players have been happy. The result has been that bigman and star player Bonell Colas (205-F-82, college: Florida), and recently also Danish combo guard Julian McFarlane (184-G-86) has left the team.

Both players were very important pieces for the Vaerlose BBK team, but still with all this going on, looking back, head coach Jonas Sorensen and the team management can very satisfied with their efforts.

Colas had a very good season coming back from injury, averaging almost a 20'n'10, while McFarlane also did an excellent job posting, 13,2PPG in 30MPG.

Standings - 1st Division
1st Division Standings
 1. Falcon 18-2 
 2. Stevnsgade 17-3 
 3. Lemvig 13-7 
 4. Haderslev 13-8 
 5. Virum 11-10 
 6. Glostrup 10-8 
 7. Solrod 10-12 
 8. ALBA 7-13 
 9. Skt.Klemens 7-14 
 10. Aarhus BF 7-15 
 11. Herlev 5-15 
 12. Hobas 4-15 


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Thomas SOLTAU
  SISU
  (210-F-82)
  Avg: 22.8
 1. Soltau, SISU22.8 
 2. Morris, Aabyhoj22.6 
 3. Hall, Aalborg22.1 
 4. Brasas, Amager BK21.3 
 5. Colas, Vaerlose19.8 
 6. Voskuil, Horsens IC18.8 
 7. Dennis, SISU18.8 
 8. Roberts, Naestved18.8 
 9. Iversen, Svendborg18.7 
 10. Falkner, Aalborg16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lee ROBERTS
  Stirling S.
  (201-F/C-87)
  Avg: 13.2
 1. Roberts, Naestved13.2 
 2. Colas, Vaerlose10.5 
 3. Morris, Aabyhoj9.9 
 4. St.John, Horsens IC9.7 
 5. Falkner, Aalborg9.6 
 6. Johansen, Naestved9.4 
 7. Soltau, SISU8.8 
 8. Williams, Svendborg7.6 
 9. Rutherford, SISU7.1 
 10. Hakanowitz, Horsh.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 D.J. SMEDLEY
  Naestved
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Smedley, Naestved6.6 
 2. Claitt, Horsens IC5.5 
 3. Hall, Aalborg5.3 
 4. Dennis, SISU4.6 
 5. Martin, Aabyhoj4.1 
 6. Nielsen, Horsholm4.1 
 7. Burgess, Bakken4.1 
 8. Darboe, Svendborg3.9 
 9. Jensen, Vaerlose3.7 
 10. Nielsen, SISU3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Marquis HALL
  Aalborg
  (183-G-87)
  Avg: 4
 1. Hall, Aalborg4.0 
 2. Kristiansen, Aalborg2.2 
 3. Burgess, Bakken1.9 
 4. Dennis, SISU1.9 
 5. Colman, Svendborg1.8 
 6. Nielsen, Horsholm1.8 
 7. Jakobsen, Bakken1.8 
 8. Jukic, Aabyhoj1.8 
 9. Smedley, Naestved1.7 
 10. Roberts, Naestved1.7 
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 IC0.8 
 7. Brown, SISU0.8 
 8. McGinn, Aalborg0.7 
 9. Johansen, Naestved0.7 
 10. Brasas, Amager BK0.6 


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


Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Iowa E. 32-11 
 2. Erie Bay H. 27-15 
 3. Ft.Wayne MA 20-23 
 4. Dakota W. 16-27 
 5. Sioux Falls S. 10-32 
Southwest Division
 1. Rio Grande 29-13 
 2. Tulsa 66ers 29-14 
 3. Texas L. 19-24 
 4. Austin T. 18-23 
 5. New Mexico 16-26 
 6. Maine RC 15-27 
West Division
 1. Reno Bighorns 27-16 
 2. Bakersfield J. 26-15 
 3. Utah F. 25-16 
 4. Idaho S. 18-24 
 5. Springfield A. 11-32 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 25.3
 1. Johnson, Bakersfi.25.3 
 2. Johnson, Erie B.21.4 
 3. Jeffers, Iowa E.21.1 
 4. Ewing, Sioux F.20.2 
 5. Adrien, Rio Grande19.9 
 6. Alexander, Texas L.19.8 
 7. McNeal, Rio Grande19.5 
 8. Dentmon, Texas L.19.4 
 9. Sims, Maine RC19.3 
 10. Byars, Bakersfi.18.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeff ADRIEN
  Golde State W.
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Adrien, Rio Grande12.2 
 2. Ewing, Sioux F.10.3 
 3. Davidson, Idaho S.10.1 
 4. Sims, Iowa E.9.6 
 5. Williams, Texas L.9.4 
 6. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.9.2 
 7. Johnson, Dakota W.9.2 
 8. Jeffers, Iowa E.9.1 
 9. Alexander, Texas L.9.0 
 10. Cousin, Austin T.8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 9.4
 1. Stinson, Iowa E.9.4 
 2. Miles, Reno Bighorns8.7 
 3. Daniels, Texas L.8.6 
 4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.7.9 
 5. Crittenton, Dakota W.7.7 
 6. Jackson, Idaho S.7.1 
 7. Jackson, Erie B.6.6 
 8. Johnson, Austin T.6.4 
 9. Reynolds, Spring.5.9 
 10. Ahearn, Erie Bay H.5.8 
Steals Per Game
 Aaron MILES
  Reno Bighorns
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Miles, Reno Bighorns2.5 
 2. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers2.5 
 3. Crittenton, Dakota W.2.4 
 4. Lin, Reno Bighorns2.3 
 5. Lofton, Iowa E.2.1 
 6. Lafayette, Ft.Wayne.2.0 
 7. Greene, Utah F.2.0 
 8. Jeffers, Iowa E.1.9 
 9. Reynolds, Spring.1.9 
 10. Shakur, Rio Grande1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Chris JOHNSON
  Portland TB
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Johnson, Dakota W.2.8 
 2. Williams, Texas L.2.8 
 3. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers2.4 
 4. Whiteside, Reno B.2.2 
 5. Atchley, Rio Grande2.2 
 6. Naymick, Bakersfi.2.1 
 7. Alabi, Erie Bay H.2.1 
 8. Gaffney, Utah F.1.9 
 9. Gladness, Dakota W.1.8 
 10. Sykes, Sioux F.1.8 


Thursday: Springfield Armor shift from cruise control to 106-105 loss to Fort Wayne Mad Ants - by Eurobasket News
Ft.Wayne MA - Springfield A. 106-105
With five minutes to go in their NBA D-League game Thursday night, the Springfield Armor were cruising. Or so it appeared. Two 3-pointers by Lance Hurdle and a basket by New Jersey Net prospect Ben Uzoh (6'3''-G-88, college: Tulsa) had sparked the Armor to an eight-point run and given them a 94-87 lead. The crowd of 2,377 at Allen County Memorial Coliseum was silenced. Mad Ants coach Joey Meyer was mad enough, shaking his head and calling for a timeout. Then, as it has happened so many times this season for the Armor, their lead evaporated, this time into a 106-105 loss on a night when rookie Jerry Smith (6'2''-G-84, college: Samford) scored a career-high and game-high 33 points. 'We don't know how to have that killer blow. We don't have that knockout punch,' said Armor head coach Dee Brown. 'All we needed was a couple of stops.' In addition to Smith's 33 points on 11-of-14 shooting, Hurdle scored 28, the most for him as an Armor player since being acquired in a Feb. 28 trade with Idaho. Uzoh, a point guard who was assigned to the Armor from the New Jersey Nets on Tuesday, scored seven points and had a team-high six assists in 24 minutes. 'It was definitely a winnable game,' Uzoh said. 'We've got to get stops and we've got to take care of the ball.' Darnell Lazare (6'8''-F-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: LSU), whose two free throws with 2:14 left gave Fort Wayne the lead for good, led the Mad Ants with 28 points. The Armor (11-32) will play the Mad Ants (20-23) again Saturday night at Fort Wayne in a 7:30 p.m. game that will be televised by Versus on a tape delay at 11 p.m. After falling behind by seven points, the Mad Ants emerged from the timeout and scored seven consecutive points in less than two minutes, tying the score at 94 with 3:24 left on a three-point play by Chris Kramer (6'3''-G-88, college: Purdue) (20 points, game-high eight assists). Ten of Kramer's points came from the free-throw line, where the Mad Ants had 38 tries on 29 Springfield fouls. The Armor's loss, which was their seventh straight this season to Fort Wayne, ruined a highlight reel-type night for Smith. He scored 22 points in the second quarter alone, his only miss in 10 shots coming on a desperation 3-pointer as the buzzer sounded to end the first half. He hit 3-pointers to end the third quarter and the game. *Courtesy of www.masslive.com



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


Standings - KML
EMKL Standings
 1. Kalev/Cramo 28-3 
 2. TU/Rock 26-3 
 3. TTU/Kalev 21-7 
 4. Rakvere 15-15 
 5. Valga/CKE 11-17 
 6. Rapla 11-17 
 7. TTU/Kalev II 10-18 
 8. Parnu 8-22 
 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, Parnu16.1 
 7. Arnold, TT.15.6 
 8. Osby, TT.14.7 
 9. Pilk, TT.14.3 
 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.9.0 
 7. Eziukwu, TU/Rock7.9 
 8. Pokla, Rakvere7.4 
 9. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.7.1 
 10. Raadik, Parnu6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Valmo KRIISA
  TTU/Kalev
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Kriisa, TT.3.8 
 2. Sokk, TU/Rock3.5 
 3. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.5 
 4. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo2.9 
 5. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock2.8 
 6. Oja, Va.2.8 
 7. Pokla, Rakvere2.7 
 8. Dorbek, Rakvere2.6 
 9. Archibald, TT.2.5 
 10. Ringmets, Rapla2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Armands SKELE
  Kalev/Cramo
  (192-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Skele, Kalev/Cramo2.5 
 2. Saage, Rakvere2.2 
 3. Laane, Rapla2.2 
 4. Raap, Parnu2.2 
 5. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 6. Karner, Parnu2.1 
 7. Doronin, TU/Rock2.0 
 8. Dorbek, Rakvere2.0 
 9. Veideman, TU/Rock1.8 
 10. Oja, Va.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock1.7 
 2. Osby, TT.1.4 
 3. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.2 
 4. Raadik, Parnu1.2 
 5. Arnold, TT.0.9 
 6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.9 
 7. Brown, Va.0.8 
 8. Raadik, TU/Rock0.8 
 9. Kuuba, Voru KK0.7 
 10. Saarmets, TTU/K.0.7 


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


1.DIVISION: Lapua winning again - by Rauno Hurmalainen
1.Division, semi-finals, game 2: Regular season winner FoKoPo (Forssa) is in troubles. Korikobrat (Lapua) winning the second time FoKoPo tonight (83-80) means, that FoKoPo needs now three victories in a row, if they want to be in the finals. Today FoKoPo had a 54-62 lead, when the fourth quarter got started, but the hosting Lapua won the last 10 minutes 29-18 and the contest by three. Derick Nelson (196-F-86, agency: ACMT, college: Oakland) (20pts/12rbs) and Tyrwone Still (198-F-77, college: W.Virginia St.) (20pts) led Korikobrat to an important victory. FoKoPo had six players in 10-12 points.
Korikonkarit (Loimaa) crushed BC Jyvaskyla 95-73 and tied the series 1-1. LoKoKo won all four quarters and had all starters in 14-19 points. J'son Stamper (200-F/C-85, agency: JEMsports, college: Minnesota) and Channing Toney (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: UAB) scored both 19 pts. Games # 3 on Sunday, March 20.
Lapua - FoKoPo 83-80 (37-41). (Derick Nelson 20/12, Tyrwone Still 20, Jussi Turja 15 - Sami Ikavalko 12, Tuomas Viertola 12, Olli Kaunomaki 11). Lapua - FoKoPo 2-0.
LoKoKo - BC Jyvaskyla 95-73 (47-40). (Json Stamper 19, Channing Toney 19, Eero Aaltonen 15 - Tracy Robinson 19/11, Jani Parkkinen 14, Jarno Nissinen 12). LoKoKo - BC JKL 1-1.



KORISLIIGA: Only two rounds left - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 42: KTP (Kotka) defeated Vilpas (Salo) 109-92, YMCA Lappeenranta lost vs Karhu (Kauhajoki) 69-86 and Korihait (Uusikaupunki) suffered this season loss # 3 at home, when visitor Pyrinto (Tampere) won 81-84. Pyrinto (35-7) has won now nine games and 11 games on the road in a row. 42/44 regular season rounds are in package and only two are left. The eight best teams will make the play-off-games. Canadian Sefton Barrett (196-F-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Michigan) (KTP) scored the most points tonight: 33 pts.
YMCA Lappeenranta - Kauhajoki 69-86 (37-35). (James Lewis 20, HL Coleman 15/11, Viljami Vanjoki 8 - Jeremiah Wood 22/14, Vesa Makalainen 19, Walt Baxley 18).
Korihait - Pyrinto 81-84 (46-44). (Lawrence Wright 23, Nigel Moore 17,. Petri Heinonen 16 - Antero Lehto 22, Damon Williams 19, Antwine Williams 14).
KTP - Vilpas 109-92 (57-34). (Sefton Barrett 33, Jerald Fields 21, Jeb Ivey 20/5a - Nick Okorie 28, Nicchaeus Doaks 23/13, Roope Ahonen 19).



Kenneth Lowe claims Finnish Korisliiga weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced American Kenneth Lowe (192-G-80, agency: Warren Sports International) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Pyrinto Tampere and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 41.
The 30-year old guard had a double-double of 26 points and twelve rebounds, while his team beat LrNMKY (#11, 9-32) 88-76. It allowed Pyrinto to consolidate first place in the Finnish Korisliiga. Pyrinto have a solid 34-7 record. It's Lowe's second year at Pyrinto and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Kenneth Lowe averages this season 16.0ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old American forward Jerrah Young (202-F-85) of Tarmo. Young impressed basketball fans with 32 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists. Bad luck as Tarmo lost that game 87-108 to the higher-ranked Namika Lahti (#9, 16-24). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Tarmo is still at the dead bottom 12th position. 36 lost games are too many comparing to just five victories Tarmo managed to get this year. Young is a newcomer at Tarmo and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. The University of Toledo alumni Young played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas.

The third best performed player last round was American Jerald Fields (201-F-82, agency: Lanshire Group) of second-ranked KTP Basket Kotka. Fields got into 30-points club by scoring 31 points in the last round. He went also for seven rebounds . He was a key player of KTP, leading his team to a 102-91 win against #3 ranked Kataja in a game of the week. KTP needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 29 victories and 12 lost games. Fields has a great season in Finland. After 40 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 3.5apg (9th best). He also has 2.1spg and FGP: 57.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tyray Pearson (201-F-80) of ToPo - 20 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Todd Hendley (206-F-84) of Namika Lahti - 27 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Sefton Barrett (196-F-83) of KTP - 27 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Roope Suonio (176-G-82) of Namika Lahti - 26 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists
8. Durell Vinson (201-F-85) of Kouvot - 21 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Jeremiah Wood (200-F-85) of Karhu - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Steffan Johnson (185-G-87) of Karhu - 21 points, 3 rebounds and 6 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)

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


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


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Tremmell DARDEN
  Nancy
  (194-G/F-81)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Darden, Nancy18.1 
 2. Mejia, Cholet18.0 
 3. Nichols, Vichy17.9 
 4. Hughes, Hyeres-T.17.5 
 5. Massie, Limoges16.9 
 6. Jefferson, AS.16.8 
 7. Woodside, Gravelines15.8 
 8. King, Le Havre15.8 
 9. Haynes, Chalon15.8 
 10. Hamilton, Paris-.15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-F/C-77)
  Avg: 8.9
 1. Massie, Limoges8.9 
 2. Issa, Gravelines8.8 
 3. Krupalija, Hyeres.8.8 
 4. Akingbala, Nancy8.5 
 5. Jones, Le Havre8.4 
 6. Elegar, Vichy7.9 
 7. Koffi, Le Mans7.6 
 8. Hughes, Hyeres-T.7.5 
 9. Jefferson, AS.7.5 
 10. Falker, Cholet7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Rouen
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Reid, Vichy6.3 
 2. King, Le Havre6.2 
 3. Linehan, Nancy6.2 
 4. Wright, Limoges6.0 
 5. Woodside, Gravelines5.9 
 6. Walsh, AS.5.3 
 7. Diabate, Roanne5.2 
 8. Schilb, Chalon4.9 
 9. Sciarra, Pau-La.4.7 
 10. Albicy, Paris-Le.4.3 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Linehan, Nancy3.7 
 2. Diot, Le Mans2.4 
 3. Walsh, AS.2.4 
 4. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.2.3 
 5. Darden, Nancy2.0 
 6. Diabate, Roanne1.8 
 7. Greer, Strasbourg1.8 
 8. Schilb, Chalon1.7 
 9. Elegar, Vichy1.7 
 10. Albicy, Paris-Le.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Gravelines
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Akpomedah, Grave.1.7 
 2. Issa, Gravelines1.7 
 3. Sene, Gravelines1.4 
 4. Jefferson, AS.1.4 
 5. Falker, Cholet1.3 
 6. Akingbala, Nancy1.3 
 7. Koffi, Le Mans1.2 
 8. Pasco, Strasbourg1.2 
 9. Wilkinson, Le Havre1.1 
 10. Fofana, AS.1.1 


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


Best players of FYR Macedonian Superleague round 5 (Second Stage) - by Eurobasket News
Soler Mavel Rejnerio had an amazing evening in the last round for Lirija and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 5 (Second Stage).
The -year old had a double-double of 16 points and fifteen rebounds, while his team beat Rabotnicki (#3, 15-8) 70-64. Lirija maintains the 6th position in FYR Macedonian Superleague. Lirija is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. But it was their 15th lost game this season out of 23 games. In the team's last game Rejnerio had a remarkable 71.4% from 2-point range. It was one of impressive evenings for him as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Soler Mavel Rejnerio averages this season 11.4ppg and 7.2rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old Serbian Nemanja Jelesijevic (209-C/F-79, agency: World Sport Agency) of Torus Skopje. Jelesijevic impressed basketball fans with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Of course he lead Torus Skopje to another comfortable win outscoring slightly lower-ranked ABA Strumica (#5, 10-13) 89-63. Torus Skopje's 4th position in the standings has not changed. His team's 14-9 record is not bad at all. Jelesijevic is one of the most experienced players at Torus Skopje and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.3ppg (#8). He also registered 8.1 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was another Torus Skopje's star - former international Bojan Trajkovski (206-C/F-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza). Trajkovski scored 17 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was another key player of Torus Skopje, helping his team with a 89-63 easy win against slightly lower-ranked ABA Strumica (#5, 10-13). Torus Skopje needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 14 victories and 9 lost games. Trajkovski has a great season in FYR Macedonia. After 21 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.3ppg (3rd best) and rebounds with 8.1rpg (7th best). He also has 1.9bpg and FGP: 61.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jane Petrovski (181-G-87) of MZT Skopje - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Zlatko Gocevski (206-C-82) of MZT Skopje - 23 points and 6 rebounds
6. Carlos Morban (187-G-82) of Lirija - 19 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Slobodan Mihajloski (202-F/C-82) of Feni Indistrija - 13 points and 2 rebounds
8. Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) of Feni Indistrija - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Kiril Nikolovski (210-C-88) of MZT Skopje - 10 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Dimitar Mirakovski (180-G-81) of Rabotnicki - 19 points and 3 assists

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

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


Philipp Schwethelm (Eisbaeren Bremerhaven) I Play Very Controlled And Like To Set Up My Teammates - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Philipp Schwethelm (201-F-89, agency: Court Side) is a 21 year old 201cm forward that was born in Gummersbach and is playing his second season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. He started his basketball career in 2004 with the Koeln cadet team. He played for Rhein Energy Cologne from 2004-2009. He already played Eurocup at age 16. In total, he played 61 BEKO BBL games in his 5 years. He also played 2 Euroleague games, 8ULEB Cup games and 3 Eurocup games. Last season for Bremerhaven, he played games 44 games avergaing 7.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 51.6%, 3PT: 38.0%, FT: 67.8%. He has achieved numerous awards in his career including U16 National Team -05-06
,FIBA EuroCup Quarterfinals -06, International Tournament in Mannheim (Unofficial World Championships U18) -06: 6 games: 5.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 37.5%, 3PT: 23.1%, FT: 55.6%, German U18 National Team -06-07, German Bundesliga U-19 All-Star Game -07, European Championships U18 in Madrid (Spain) -07: 8 games: 8.5ppg, 4.4rpg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 56.5%, 3FGP: 47.6%, German Bundesliga U-20 All-Star Game -08, Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Newcomer of the Year -08, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Newcomers Team -08, German U20 National Team -08-09, European Championships U20 Division B in Targu Mures (Romania) -08: (Champion): 8 games: 10.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 64.3%, 3PT: 39.3%, FT: 77.8%, European Championships U20 in Rhodos (Greece) -09: 6 games: 11.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.3apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 78.6%, German Bundesliga Semifinals -10, German National Team -10,World Championships in Turkey -10: 5 games: 4.4ppg, 1.0apg, and German Bundesliga All-Star Game -11. Phil took some time to talk to eurobasket about basketball.




How much have The Gloria Giants improved since the first meeting this season?



They play more together as a team. They are running their plays better and have more options. They are passing the ball better and more and looking for the extra pass more.


How difficult has it been not having Jeff Gibbs and Lou Campbell this season?


Many teams lost good players this season and it is a common thing in the BEKO BBL that players come and go.


How important has been getting John Allen?


It has been very important getting him. He has a strong game and gives us needed energy from the bench. It is important for us that our starters get a rest and we get production from the bench.


Can the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven make the playoffs with the point guard duo of Copeland/Thomas?


You still have to give them some time. They both were injured alot this season. However I think that when they are healthy that we can be very successful as a team with them at point guard.


On what things do the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven still need to work on to be a sure playoff team?


We have to improve our defense especially on the pick and roll. We have to play more consistently on defense as well. There tend to be periods of 4-5 minutes in games where we are not concentrated on defense. Against lesser teams, we can still get by playing bad defense, but the stronger teams then are able to pull away. On offense we can play more consistent for 40 minutes.


How much as Torrell Martin improved this season?



The difference to last season is his consistency this season. I dont think that he has one weak game this season. He is more versatile this season and his passing has improved.


You are playing your second season in Bremerhaven. What is the biggest difference to Cologne?


Cologne concentrated more on defense and set plays while in Bremerhaven the team is more offense minded and like to run with the ball.


How much have you developed as a player since the first day of practice 2009 in Bremerhaven?


I think I have made a big jump since then something I never would have thought could have happened. I showed in Cologne that I could play in the BEKO BBL. I improved my defense in Cologne and now since being in Bremerhaven have been able to work on my offense. I am more versatile on offense now. I can penetrate and post up and I play more aggressive.


Did you ever think 3-4 years ago that you would be a BEKO BBL Allstar starter at age 21?



I would never have thought that because I always set smaller goals. I also would never have set goals as a 16 year old with being a BEKO BBL Allstar at age 21.


What is the most important thing that you have learned from coach Doug Spradley?



He has taught me to be more aggressive on offense. I also have the freedom to take more shots here and just let me use the freedom whenever I want.


What is a strength in your game that isnt always noticed right away?



I play very controlled and like to set up my teammates.

Who were basketball idols as a kid?


I came from a small town Gummersbach and I liked this local street baller named Alexander Norell who had tryouts with Leverkusen and Alba Berlin, but never made it there.


How strong did the finance crisis in Cologne make you?


I was able toget playing time which helped my development. For years the club was focusing on winning the BBL title, but then all of a sudden they had to play young German players. Tibor Pleiss and I really profited from this.


You also played together with Phoenix Sun Marcin Gortat. What funny story do you have baout him?



I could write a book about Marcin Gortat. I still dont know of a player that worked as hard as him. we hardly had any free time there. At times we didnt have an off day in three months. Even if we had a morning off, Marcin was practicing and he would get mad if he had to stop. He started playing basketball very late, but I remember his first day of practice where we had easy passing drills and his passes were flying left and right, but he always had that goal to be the best. His goal was always the nBA from morning until night that was all which was on his mind.

You played Eurocup with 16 years. What do you remember from your first club international game?


I dont remember if it was my first game but we were playing Ceramica against Louis Scola and I came in at the end of the game and made a lay up and three pointer. That was a big moment for me.


Who was your best opponent at the 2010 World Championships in Turkey?



I would dsay Carlos Delfino of Argentina and the guy that played for Angola. I cant remember his name but he hit us with 30 points.


What can Germany achieve at the 2011 European Championships?


THe World Championships in Turkey was an important experience for our young team. I think anything is possible if Nowitzki and Kaman return.


What were the most free throws that you made in a row?


50.



What was your most crazy shot in a game or practice?


I made a shot over the back board in practice.


Thanks Phil for the chat.


Standings - 1. Bundesliga
1.Bundesliga Standings
 1. Brose Baskets 25-2 
 2. Dt.Bank SKY 21-6 
 3. ALBA 18-8 
 4. Art.Dragons 18-9 
 5. NY Phantoms 16-11 
 6. TBB Trier 15-12 
 7. EWE Baskets 15-12 
 8. EnBW L'burg 15-12 
 9. Telekom Baskets 13-13 
 10. Goettingen 13-13 
 11. Bremerhaven 13-14 
 12. Walter Tigers 13-14 
 13. Phoenix Hagen 12-16 
 14. ratiopharm 11-16 
 15. MBC 7-20 
 16. LTi 46ers 7-20 
 17. Bayreuth 6-21 
 18. Duesseldorf 4-23 


Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. B.Muenchen 23-1 
 2. Wuerzburg 18-6 
 3. Chemnitz 16-8 
 4. Osnabrueck 15-8 
 5. Braves 15-9 
 6. Crailsheim 14-10 
 7. Kirchheim 13-11 
 8. Webmoebel 12-12 
 9. Karlsruhe 11-13 
 10. Hannover 10-15 
 11. Heidelberg 9-15 
 12. Freiburg 8-16 
 13. Cuxhaven 7-17 
 14. Dragons 7-17 
 15. ETB Wohnbau 7-17 
 16. Jena 7-17 


Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.Bank SKY
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 19
 1. Wood, Dt.19.0 
 2. Rice, Art.Dragons16.8 
 3. Allen, ALBA16.5 
 4. Bell, Phoenix Hagen16.0 
 5. Benzing, ratio.15.8 
 6. Martin, Bremerha.15.4 
 7. Ross, MBC15.3 
 8. Dorris, Phoenix .15.0 
 9. Callahan, Bremerha.15.0 
 10. Harris, EnBW L.14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 John BRYANT
  ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Bryant, ratiopharm10.8 
 2. Ensminger, Teleko.8.5 
 3. Watts, Walter T.7.9 
 4. Reiner, Bayreuth7.9 
 5. Ovcina, LTi 46ers7.2 
 6. Martin, Bremerha.7.1 
 7. Stevic, EWE B.7.0 
 8. Burtschi, Phoenix .6.7 
 9. Pleiss, Brose B.6.5 
 10. Peacock, LTi 46ers6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter Tigers
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Ratkovica, Walter T.7.8 
 2. Wood, Dt.5.8 
 3. Joyce, TBB Trier5.5 
 4. Rice, Art.Dragons5.1 
 5. Jordan, MBC4.3 
 6. Neitzel, Bayreuth4.2 
 7. Goldsberry, Brose B.4.1 
 8. Green, EnBW L.4.1 
 9. Gamqrelidze, LTi 4.1 
 10. Campbell, EWE B.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. Burtschi, Phoenix .1.6 
 4. Pryor, Phoenix .1.5 
 5. Dorris, Phoenix .1.5 
 6. Goldsberry, Brose B.1.5 
 7. Wood, Dt.1.4 
 8. Wise, Telekom .1.4 
 9. Bailey, Art.Dragons1.4 
 10. Campbell, Teleko.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ekene IBEKWE
  Bayreuth
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.2.4 
 2. Pleiss, Brose B.2.0 
 3. Buechert, Phoenix .1.6 
 4. Bryant, ratiopharm1.6 
 5. Seward, Phoenix .1.3 
 6. Goree, NY Phantoms1.3 
 7. Brempong, Duesseld.1.2 
 8. Scott, Goettingen1.0 
 9. Hines, Brose B.1.0 
 10. Boumtje, Art.Drag.0.9 


Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 Kejuan JOHNSON
  Webmoebel
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Johnson, Webmoebel21.5 
 2. Shepherd, Osnab.20.2 
 3. Roessler, Karlsruhe18.3 
 4. Watts, Dragons18.3 
 5. Lewis, ETB Wohnbau18.1 
 6. Brooks, Kirchheim18.0 
 7. Gause, Freiburg17.4 
 8. Samarco, Webmoebel17.3 
 9. Yearby, Cuxhaven17.0 
 10. Gray, Crailsheim16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus SMALLWOOD
  Kirchheim
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Smallwood, Cuxha.10.9 
 2. Smallwood, Kirchheim9.6 
 3. Yearby, Cuxhaven9.5 
 4. Black, Karlsruhe8.7 
 5. Lewis, ETB Wohnbau8.6 
 6. Watts, Dragons8.6 
 7. Schoo, Heidelberg8.1 
 8. De Michael, Kirchheim8.0 
 9. Shaw, Chemnitz7.9 
 10. Wohlfarth-B., Drago.7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Achmadschah ZAZAI
  Chemnitz
  (177-PG-86)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Zazai, Chemnitz5.8 
 2. Gray, Crailsheim5.8 
 3. Cook, Cuxhaven5.7 
 4. Brooks, Kirchheim5.6 
 5. Jeka, Wuerzburg4.8 
 6. Johnson, Webmoebel4.7 
 7. Larsen, Dragons4.5 
 8. Burnette, Osnab.4.5 
 9. Hamann, B.Muenchen4.4 
 10. Lowery, Braves4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Kejuan JOHNSON
  Webmoebel
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 3
 1. Johnson, Webmoebel3.0 
 2. Gause, Freiburg3.0 
 3. Lewis, ETB Wohnbau2.3 
 4. Zazai, Chemnitz2.0 
 5. Johnson, Chemnitz2.0 
 6. Brooks, Kirchheim1.9 
 7. Shaw, Chemnitz1.9 
 8. Gray, Crailsheim1.8 
 9. Burns, Webmoebel1.7 
 10. Scott, Kirchheim1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Marcus SMALLWOOD
  Kirchheim
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 2
 1. Smallwood, Kirchheim2.0 
 2. Schoo, Heidelberg1.8 
 3. Williams, Karlsruhe1.8 
 4. Wohlfarth-B., Drago.1.8 
 5. Yearby, Cuxhaven1.5 
 6. Shaw, Cuxhaven1.3 
 7. Fleetwood, Osnab.1.3 
 8. Hill, Jena1.2 
 9. Henry, Hannover1.2 
 10. De Michael, Kirchheim1.1 


1.Bundesliga Round 27: Gloria Giants try to escape the last position defeating Mitteldeutscher BC - by Eurobasket News
Bottom-ranked Gloria Giants managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the series of eight consecutive loses on Friday night. This time they edged fifteenth-ranked Mitteldeutscher BC in Weissenfels 81-80. The guests trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 25-14 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 8-7. Gloria Giants made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Mitteldeutscher BC turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Mitteldeutscher BC helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for American guard Patrick Pope (183-81, college: St.Augustine) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points. Lithuanian forward Laimonas Kisielius (203-85, college: William & Mary) helped adding 15 points. Gloria Giants' coach Murat Didin used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. The best for the losing side was Serbian guard Radenko Pilcevic (188-86) with 16 points and 4 assists. Gloria Giants maintains eighteenth place with 4-23 record. Mitteldeutscher BC lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth position with 20 games lost. They share it with LTi 46ers. Gloria Giants are looking forward to face higher ranked Phoenix Hagen (#13) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Mitteldeutscher BC will play against the league's leader Brose Baskets where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
The game in Trier was also worth to mention about. 6th ranked EWE Baskets (15-12) played at the court of seventh ranked TBB Trier (15-12). TBB Trier defeated EWE Baskets 76-65. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of EWE Baskets. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Dru Joyce (183-85, college: Akron) who led the winners and scored 17 points and 7 assists. Barry Stewart accounted for 19 points and 5 rebounds. American guard Rickey Paulding (196-82, college: Missouri, agency: Pro One Sports) came up with 16 points and 5 assists for EWE Baskets in the defeat. TBB Trier moved-up to sixth place, which they share with EnBW L'burg and EWE Baskets. TBB Trier will play against ratiopharm Ulm (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. EWE Baskets will play against Telekom Baskets (#9) in Bonn and hope to get back on the winning track.
Twelfth ranked Telekom Baskets (13-13) crushed at home 17th ranked BBC Bayreuth (6-21) by 28 points 83-55, which is the biggest margin this round on Friday night. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was Jeremy Hunt who scored 15 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Marcus Ginyard who recorded 18 points and 6 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. Telekom Baskets moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Goettingen. Newly promoted BBC Bayreuth keeps the seventeenth position with 21 games lost. Telekom Baskets will meet higher ranked EWE Baskets (#7) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BBC Bayreuth will play against EnBW Ludwigsburg (#8) and hope to secure a win.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 27: ratiopharm lost to Phoenix Hagen on the opponent's court 77-83. Goettingen unfortunately lost to NY Phantoms in a home game 78-82. Dt.Bank SKY managed to beat Walter Tigers on the road 80-76. LTi 46ers were defeated by Art.Dragons on its own court 53-62. Bremerhaven were beaten by EnBW L'burg in Ludwigsburg 74-70.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 25 points and 15 rebounds by Roderick Trice of ratiopharm.


Phoenix Hagen - ratiopharm 83-77

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 13th ranked ratiopharm Ulm (11-16) was defeated on the road by fourteenth ranked Phoenix Hagen (12-16) 83-77 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 26-19 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Phoenix Hagen made 29-of-31 free shots (93.5 percent) during the game, while ratiopharm Ulm only scored nine points from the stripe. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was forward Jacob Burtschi (198-84, college: Air Force) who had a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Mark Dorris (188-85, college: Marshall) chipped in 23 points (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). At the other side the best for losing team was forward Roderick Trice (191-84, college: S.Carolina, agency: Lanshire Group) who recorded a double-double by scoring 25 points and 15 rebounds and center John Bryant (208-87, college: Santa Clara) added 10 points and 15 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. ratiopharm Ulm's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Phoenix Hagen moved-up to thirteenth place. ratiopharm Ulm at the other side dropped to the fourteenth position with 16 games lost. Phoenix Hagen will meet bottom-ranked Gloria Giants (#18) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. ratiopharm Ulm will play against TBB Trier (#6) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Phoenix Hagen: M.Dorris 23+2reb+1ast, D.Bell 14+3reb+2ast, J.Burtschi 14+11reb+3ast, Z.Jonusas 14+12reb, M.Terwilliger 6+3reb+1ast, D.Spohr 5+2reb
ratiopharm: R.Trice 25+15reb+2ast, P.Guenther 12+1ast, J.Bryant 10+15reb+1ast, T.Mason-Griffin 10+4reb+4ast, L.Humphrey 7+1ast, D.Fitzgerald 5
gschID: 93118


Goettingen - NY Phantoms 78-82

Rather predictable result when fifth ranked New Yorker Phantoms (16-11) defeated on the road 9th ranked BG Goettingen (13-13) 82-78 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 12 points after three quarters before their 31-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. New Yorker Phantoms made 27-of-31 free shots (87.1 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when New Yorker Phantoms made 10 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was swingman Brandon Thomas (198-84, college: Massachusetts) who scored 23 points and 4 assists (went 11 for 11 at the free throw line !!!). Guard LaMarr Greer (196-76, college: Florida St.) chipped in 20 points (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Four New Yorker Phantoms players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Louis Dale (180-88, college: Cornell) who recorded 18 points and 6 rebounds and power forward Jason Boone (198-85, college: New York U.) added 9 points and 8 rebounds respectively. New Yorker Phantoms maintains fifth place with 16-11 record. BG Goettingen at the other side keeps the ninth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Telekom Baskets. New Yorker Phantoms will meet at home Walter Tigers (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. BG Goettingen will play against Artland Dragons in Quakenbrueck and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
NY Phantoms: B.Thomas 23+4reb+4ast, L.Greer 20+4reb+2ast, M.Goree 13+6reb, K.Visser 11+5reb+1ast, K.Hamilton 8+5reb+6ast, J.Cain 6+1reb
Goettingen: L.Dale 18+6reb, M.Scott 15+3reb+1ast, D.Anderson 12+6reb, T.Meacham 10+1ast, J.Boone 9+8reb+3ast, J.Little 8+7reb+3ast
gschID: 93114


Telekom Baskets - Bayreuth 83-55

Twelfth ranked Telekom Baskets (13-13) crushed at home 17th ranked BBC Bayreuth (6-21) by 28 points 83-55, which is the biggest margin this round on Friday night. The game without a history. Telekom Baskets 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 BBC Bayreuth's 26. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Telekom Baskets made 7 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was guard Jeremy Hunt (196-83, college: Memphis) who scored 15 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Nic Wise (178-87, college: Arizona) chipped in 17 points. At the other side the best for losing team was swingman Marcus Ginyard (196-87, college: N.Carolina) who recorded 18 points and 6 rebounds and center Jared Reiner (211-82, college: Iowa, agency: Priority Sports) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Telekom Baskets moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Goettingen. Newly promoted BBC Bayreuth keeps the seventeenth position with 21 games lost. Telekom Baskets will meet higher ranked EWE Baskets (#7) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. BBC Bayreuth will play against EnBW Ludwigsburg (#8) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Telekom Baskets: N.Wise 17+1reb+1ast, J.Hunt 15+5reb+1ast, M.Tyndale 14+2reb+2ast, S.Hauer 8, C.Ensminger 7+6reb, T.Ohlbrecht 7+4reb
Bayreuth: M.Ginyard 18+6reb, J.Reiner 11+5reb, D.Gibson 8+2reb+2ast, E.Ibekwe 6+1reb+1ast, D.Neitzel 5+1reb+2ast, S.Schmitz 3+2ast
gschID: 93115


Walter Tigers - Dt.Bank SKY 76-80

Not a big story in a game in Tuebingen where 11th ranked Walter Tigers (13-14) were defeated by second ranked Deutsche Bank Skyliners (21-6) 80-76 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 27-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American guard DaShaun Wood (185-85, college: Wright St.) who scored 22 points. His fellow American import forward Chris Moss (204-80, college: W.Virginia) chipped in 12 points. Deutsche Bank Skyliners' coach Gordon Herbert allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Dane Watts (203-86, agency: Pro One Sports) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds and Serbian guard Radovan Markovic (194-82) added 19 points respectively. Four Walter Tigers players scored in double figures. Deutsche Bank Skyliners have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain second place with 21-6 record having four points less than leader Brose Baskets. Walter Tigers at the other side keep the eleventh position with 14 games lost. They share it with Bremerhaven. Deutsche Bank Skyliners will meet at home ALBA Berlin (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Walter Tigers will play against New Yorker Phantoms (#5) in Braunschweig and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Dt.Bank SKY: D.Wood 22+4reb+3ast, C.Moss 12+4reb+2ast, R.Powell 11+6reb+1ast, D.Bahiense de Mello 9+1reb, J.Shepherd 8+2reb+1ast, J.McKinney 7+2reb
Walter Tigers: D.Watts 20+10reb, R.Markovic 19+2ast, C.Oliver 11+7reb+3ast, B.Ratkovica 10+3reb+8ast, A.Kashirov 8+7reb+1ast, J.Herber 6+5reb+6ast
gschID: 93116


LTi 46ers - Art.Dragons 53-62

Everything went according to plan in Giessen where fourth ranked Artland Dragons (18-9) beat 16th ranked LTi 46ers (7-20) 62-53 on Friday. LTi 46ers were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. The best player for the winners was American guard Tyrese Rice (185-87, college: Boston Coll., agency: Priority Sports) who scored 15 points and 4 assists. American-Puerto Rican forward Nathan Peavy (203-85, college: Miami, OH, agency: Limelight Hoops) chipped in 11 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Anthony Smith (196-86, college: Liberty, agency: Pro One Sports) who recorded 15 points and the other American import swingman Maurice Jeffers (194-79, college: St.Louis) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively. LTi 46ers' coach Steven Key rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Artland Dragons have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 18-9 record. LTi 46ers lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifteenth position with 20 games lost. They share it with MBC. Artland Dragons will meet at home BG Goettingen (#10) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. LTi 46ers will play against Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (#11) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Art.Dragons: T.Rice 15+2reb+4ast, B.Bailey 13+2reb+3ast, N.Peavy 11+8reb+1ast, A.Hess 9+8reb, R.Kurz 8+9reb+1ast, R.Boumtje 4+5reb
LTi 46ers: A.Smith 15+4reb+1ast, M.Jeffers 13+5reb+1ast, Z.Peacock 8+1reb, M.Jordan 7+2reb+1ast, E.Ovcina 5+10reb+3ast, J.Freese 2+7reb
gschID: 93117


EnBW L'burg - Bremerhaven 74-70

There was no surprise when 10th ranked Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (13-14) was defeated on the road by eighth ranked EnBW Ludwigsburg (15-12) 74-70 on Friday. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 23-15 charge of EnBW Ludwigsburg, which allowed them to win the game. They made 24-of-29 free shots (82.8 percent) during the game, while Eisbaeren Bremerhaven only scored six points from the stripe. The best player for the winners was Lithuanian forward Donatas Zavackas (203-80, college: Pittsburgh) who scored 19 points and 9 rebounds. American forward John Bowler (206-84, college: E.Michigan, agency: Limelight Hoops) chipped in 17 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Craig Callahan (203-81, college: NC-Wilmington) who recorded 27 points and 7 rebounds and the other American import guard Jamison Brewer (193-80, college: Auburn) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively. EnBW Ludwigsburg moved-up to sixth place, which they share with TBB Trier and EWE Baskets. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 14 games lost. They share it with Walter Tigers. EnBW Ludwigsburg will meet BBC Bayreuth (#17) on the road in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Eisbaeren Bremerhaven will play against LTi 46ers (#16) in Giessen and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
EnBW L'burg: D.Zavackas 19+9reb, J.Bowler 17+8reb+1ast, J.Green 15+3reb, T.Bailey 9+10reb, A.Harris 8+4ast, D.McCray 2+2reb+2ast
Bremerhaven: C.Callahan 27+7reb+1ast, J.Brewer 11+5reb+3ast, T.Everett 6+8reb+4ast, S.Denison 5+4reb+4ast, A.Drevo 5+2reb, P.Schwethelm 5+1ast
gschID: 93111


MBC - Duesseldorf 80-81 OT

Bottom-ranked Gloria Giants managed to get a fourth victory, breaking the series of eight consecutive loses on Friday night. This time they edged fifteenth-ranked Mitteldeutscher BC in Weissenfels 81-80. The guests trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 25-14 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 8-7. Gloria Giants made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Mitteldeutscher BC turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Mitteldeutscher BC helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for American guard Patrick Pope (183-81, college: St.Augustine) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points. Lithuanian forward Laimonas Kisielius (203-85, college: William & Mary) helped adding 15 points. Gloria Giants' coach Murat Didin used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. The best for the losing side was Serbian guard Radenko Pilcevic (188-86) with 16 points and 4 assists and American guard Ronald Ross (188-83, college: Texas Tech, agency: World Sport Agency) scored 13 points and 4 assists. Gloria Giants maintains eighteenth place with 4-23 record. Mitteldeutscher BC lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth position with 20 games lost. They share it with LTi 46ers. Gloria Giants are looking forward to face higher ranked Phoenix Hagen (#13) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Mitteldeutscher BC will play against the league's leader Brose Baskets where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Duesseldorf: P.Pope 17+1reb+2ast, L.Kisielius 15+3reb+2ast, E.Rizvic 12+4reb, S.Wright 9+6reb, J.Buck 9+2reb, G.Watt 7+6reb+1ast
MBC: R.Pilcevic 16+2reb+4ast, W.Bernard 15+5reb+1ast, R.Ross 13+4reb+4ast, J.Gilbert 8+5reb, G.Grunheid 7+7reb+1ast, R.Dramicanin 7+2reb
gschID: 93112


TBB Trier - EWE Baskets 76-65

The game in Trier was also worth to mention about. 6th ranked EWE Baskets (15-12) played at the court of seventh ranked TBB Trier (15-12). TBB Trier defeated EWE Baskets 76-65. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of EWE Baskets. It looked good early as EWE Baskets took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then TBB Trier had a 20-11 second period charge getting the lead and EWE Baskets were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 65-76. It was an exceptional evening for American guard Dru Joyce (183-85, college: Akron) who led the winners and scored 17 points and 7 assists. His fellow American import guard Barry Stewart (191-88, college: Mississippi St.) accounted for 19 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. American guard Rickey Paulding (196-82, college: Missouri, agency: Pro One Sports) came up with 16 points and 5 assists and Serbian forward Luka Bogdanovic (210-85, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively for EWE Baskets in the defeat. TBB Trier moved-up to sixth place, which they share with EnBW L'burg and EWE Baskets. TBB Trier will play against ratiopharm Ulm (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. EWE Baskets will play against Telekom Baskets (#9) in Bonn and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
TBB Trier: B.Stewart 19+5reb, D.Joyce 17+2reb+7ast, J.Bynum 12+5reb+4ast, M.Zirbes 7+1reb, D.Dojcin 7+1reb, O.Clay 5+5reb
EWE Baskets: R.Paulding 16+4reb+5ast, L.Bogdanovic 14+7reb, A.Baynes 10+6reb, E.Gill 8+4reb+2ast, L.Campbell 8+2reb+1ast, M.Lukauskis 5+2reb+2ast
gschID: 93110




Michael Jordan (Giessen46ers)I Learned A Long Time Ago To Never Get To High After A Win And Never To Low After A Loss - 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 in15 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 played for MBC averaging 9,3ppg, 1,9rpg and 4,3apg before moving on to the Giessen 46ers. He spoke to eurobasket after the 82-64 win against The Walter Tigers Tuebingen.


Congrats on the 82-64 win against The Walter Tigers Tuebingen who were one of the hotter teams. How focused was Giessen tonight and caging the Tiger seemed a lot easier than it was stopping Frankfurt last weekend?


We were well prepared and focused on getting this win. We played together for mostly the entire game. We had a lapse in the 2nd qtr but were able to get back to form. Getting Moe Jeffers back helped us a lot as well as the early performance of Jannik Freese.

Giessen had the 46-42 lead at halftime. What did coach Steven Key tell the team to do better in the second half?


Coach was livid @ halftime because in the 2nd qtr we reverted back to holding the ball, not executing, not sharing the ball, and slacked up on defense. So he came in and got straight to the point. Slammed a couple doors and laid into us pretty good. It was much needed and we deserved it. Told us to step it up on Defense, rebounding, and to continue sharing the ball

It seemed like Giessen listened to coach as Tuebingen only scored 9 points. All in all the Tuebingen weapons seemed silenced except for Anatoly Kashirov. What was the secret on defense that kept so many players in check?


I think we all challenged ourselves to get better defensively after our last two games. This game was a must win for us. Our last two outings were embarrassing. As a team we were focused on taking them out of what they wanted to run and we have to do that every time we take the floor.

Was one of the biggest stengthes holding Bane Ratkovica to 0 assists and 7 turnovers? I am sure you had a big smile on your face after this win?


Miles, you know it always feels good to get a win so yeah I was most definitely smiling from ear to ear. I learned a long time ago to never get too high after a win, and never too low after a loss, but as I said before this was a much needed victory. One of our keys to the game was to not let Bane stand out there and pick us apart. We wanted to pressure him and limit his assists. Our perimeter players took it as a challenge to bottle him up and I think we did a decent job. I mean @ home he gets 13 assist at the least so we didn't want him to have that many in our house.

Jannik Fresse had 12 points on 6/7 shooting. Did you give him a special MJ pregame pep talk or was his performance 100% Big Freeze effort?


With Zack missing a few days of practice this week, (because of a minor injury) we've been on Young Freezer all week to be more confident, play harder and be more focused. I was happy and proud to see him come out aggressive. Now we have to get him to play like that all the time and the entire game. We now know that he can do it so we are now going to expect it from him. He has been shooting with me this week in practice so that might have something to do with it as well.
(On the low low, I am the shooting champion on the team)

The Miami Heat beat the Los Angeles Lakers the other night. Was this just another win for Miami or do you think they will be able to make a late season run with the taste of this win increasing their self confidence?


Miami has Three NBA All Stars. It's not hard to get hyped up to play the Lakers. I'm not worried about the Heat. They are gonna be a problem when the post season rolls around. That being said, i'm riding out with The BEAN (Kobe) ALL DAY!!!!

Which player will be the star of the NCAA March Madness?

There are so many guys putting in work Miles that it's hard to say. Fredette and Kemba will put up crazy numbers, but I am sure like every year that someone will surprise us all.

Michael Jordan said that Chicago Bull Derrick Rose is the early MVP favorite. Do you agree with him?

I agree with MJ, I think D. Rose is the MVP right now. If he doesn't get it I will be very surprised. He's playing at a high level and he has his team rolling!!!

Thanks MJ for the chat

*****************************************************
  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, Ilysiakos15.8 
 5. Kalathis, VAP K.15.1 
 6. Grundy, AEK14.5 
 7. Thompson, Ikaros14.5 
 8. Francis, Panellinios14.4 
 9. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos14.0 
 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, Ilysiakos6.6 
 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.4.6 
 6. Everett, Iraklis4.4 
 7. Karydas, Ilysiakos4.1 
 8. Xanthopoulos, Panell.4.0 
 9. Palacio, Kavala3.8 
 10. Papaloukas, Olymp.3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Terrell EVERETT
  Bremerhaven
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Everett, Iraklis2.4 
 2. Baxter, Ilysiakos2.0 
 3. Grundy, AEK1.9 
 4. Karydas, Ilysiakos1.8 
 5. Papaloukas, Olymp.1.8 
 6. Xanthopoulos, Panell.1.8 
 7. Marshall, PAOK1.8 
 8. Kojadinovic, Marousi1.6 
 9. Kalathis, VAP K.1.5 
 10. Jamon Lukas, Olymp.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. Harissis, VAP K.0.7 
 9. Cohadarevic, AEK0.7 
 10. Vougioukas, Panath.0.7 


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Olympiakos 21-0 
 2. Panathinaikos 20-1 
 3. Marousi 11-9 
 4. PAOK 11-9 
 5. Peristeri GS 10-10 
 6. Kavala 10-10 
 7. Panionios 10-10 
 8. Aris 10-11 
 9. VAP Kolossos 9-11 
 10. Panellinios 7-13 
 11. Ikaros 7-13 
 12. Ilysiakos 6-15 
 13. AEK 5-15 
 14. Iraklis 5-15 


Dante Stiggers the replacement of Gray - by Giorgos Diploidis
Dante Stiggers (187-G-82, college: S.Mississippi) will finally be the player who will take the place of Justin Gray in the team of PAOK Thessaloniki The last one left the team some time ago and the team of Thessaloniki was without their starting play maker. The coach of PAOK, Soulis Markopoulos was looking for the appropriate player but he received a lot of negative answers.

Stiggers started the season in Cyprus, in the team of Pizza Express Primetel Apollon where in 13 games he had an average of 7.9 points, 3.1ribounds, 4.1 assists.

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


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. Laing, Magixx15.2 
 5. Kimbrough, Giants15.2 
 6. Mills, Eiffel Towers14.9 
 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, GasTerra9.4 
 5. Sanchez, DeFriesl.8.7 
 6. Griffin, Giants8.6 
 7. Ellis, GasTerra8.1 
 8. de Randamie, ABC8.1 
 9. Hamm, BS Weert7.9 
 10. McGhee, ZZ Leiden7.7 
Assists Per Game
 Matt BAUSCHER
  GasTerra
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 5
 1. Bauscher, GasTerra5.0 
 2. Turner, Eiffel T.5.0 
 3. Stokes, BS Weert4.1 
 4. Kimbrough, Giants4.0 
 5. Bostain, GasTerra3.6 
 6. Marshall, Lands.3.6 
 7. Williams, DeFriesland3.4 
 8. Jansen, Eiffel T.3.4 
 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. Stokes, BS Weert2.2 
 5. McDermott, Magixx2.2 
 6. Jackson, ZZ Leiden2.2 
 7. McGhee, ZZ Leiden2.1 
 8. Bostain, GasTerra2.1 
 9. Marshall, Lands.2.1 
 10. Kimbrough, Giants1.9 
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. Bekkering, ZZ Le.0.9 
 7. Hulzebos, Landstede0.9 
 8. Haryasz, GasTerra0.8 
 9. Hamm, BS Weert0.8 
 10. Smith, Eiffel Towers0.8 


Standings - Eredivisie
DBL Standings
 1. GasTerra 27-5 
 2. ZZ Leiden 25-6 
 3. Eiffel Towers 22-10 
 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 


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


Stats Leaders (Men)
Points Per Game
 Thomas SANDERS
  Keflavik
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 24.3
 1. Sanders, Keflavik24.3 
 2. Walker, KR23.7 
 3. Trifunovic, Keflavik23.0 
 4. Springer, Fjolnir22.7 
 5. Bartolotta, IR22.5 
 6. Inge, Haukar22.2 
 7. Biedler, IR21.7 
 8. Sovic, IR21.1 
 9. Dabney, Hamar21.1 
 10. Smith, Njardvik20.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gerald ROBINSON
  Haukar
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.7
 1. Robinson, Haukar13.7 
 2. Biedler, IR12.4 
 3. Pettinella, Grindavik11.1 
 4. Trifunovic, Keflavik10.3 
 5. Ermolinskij, KR10.3 
 6. Fain, Tindastoll10.1 
 7. Springer, Fjolnir10.0 
 8. Stywall, Fjolnir9.8 
 9. Jonsson, Snaefell9.4 
 10. Amoroso, Snaefell9.1 
Assists Per Game
 Aegir STEINARSSON
  Fjolnir
  (182-G-91)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Steinarsson, Fjolnir8.7 
 2. Ermolinskij, KR7.8 
 3. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.7.6 
 4. Burton, Snaefell6.7 
 5. Haraldsson, Haukar6.0 
 6. Shouse, Stjarnan5.9 
 7. Arnarson, Hamar5.3 
 8. Schoen, KFI5.2 
 9. Inge, Haukar5.0 
 10. Cunningham, Tinda.4.9 
Steals Per Game
 Semaj INGE
  Haukar
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Inge, Haukar3.3 
 2. Schoen, KFI3.0 
 3. Fain, Tindastoll2.9 
 4. Dabney, Hamar2.9 
 5. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.2.5 
 6. Kitanovic, Tindastoll2.5 
 7. Biedler, IR2.5 
 8. Steinarsson, Fjolnir2.3 
 9. Walker, KR2.2 
 10. Viggosson, Tindastoll2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Christopher SMITH
  Svit
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Smith, Njardvik3.2 
 2. Nathanaelsso., Ham.2.5 
 3. Biedler, IR1.9 
 4. Fain, Tindastoll1.6 
 5. Inge, Haukar1.4 
 6. Pettinella, Grindavik1.4 
 7. Savarsson, Grind.1.4 
 8. Lindmets, Stjarnan1.3 
 9. Thorsteinsso., Kefla.1.3 
 10. Magnusson, KR1.2 


Express L. Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Snaefell - Haukar 76-67

Snaefell surged ahead in the quarterfinal series versus Haukar. They celebrated the home win in the opener. The hosts trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 9 points. Snaefell made 17-of-18 free shots (94.4 percent) during the game. Forward Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) stepped up and scored 13 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists (made all of his eight free throws) for the winners and American-Italian forward Ryan Amoroso (203-85, college: San Diego St.) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. Four Snaefell players scored in double figures. Snaefell's coach Ingi Thor Steinthorsson used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Dutch-American forward Gerald Robinson (204-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 15 rebounds and American guard Semaj Inge (193-87, college: Temple, agency: Basket Law/NM Services) scored 21 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals.
Top scorers:
Snaefell: R.Amoroso 18+7reb+1ast, J.Olafur Jonsson 13+9reb+6ast, Z.Bojovic 11+6reb+1ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 11+3reb+6ast, E.Johannsson 8+2reb+1ast, E.Egilsson 8+4reb+1ast
Haukar: G.Robinson 24+15reb, S.Inge 21+9reb+4ast, O.Siguraarson 9+6reb, S.Haraldsson 5+2reb+10ast, S.Sveinsson 4+7reb, E.Barja 2+5reb
gschID: 123777


Keflavik - IR 115-93

Keflavik experienced little problems en route to the first quarterfinal victory. They cruised past visiting IR. The game without a history. Keflavik led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 72 of its points in the paint compared to IR's 42. They outrebounded IR 40-25 including a 28-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. Keflavik looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists. The former international guard Axel Vilhjalmsson (188-88) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 8 rebounds and 12 assists for the winners and American guard Thomas Sanders (191-85, college: Gardner-Webb, agency: Duran International) chipped in 22 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Keflavik players scored in double figures. At the losing side American forward Kelly Biedler (196-88, college: Mt.St.Mary's) responded with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and Serbian-Canadian forward Nemanja Sovic (198-77, college: Pfeiffer) scored 22 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.
Top scorers:
Keflavik: A.Ciric 24+7reb+2ast, T.Sanders 22+11reb+5ast, A.Vilhjalmsson 21+8reb+12ast, G.Thorsteinsson 17+6reb+1ast, M.Gunnarsson 9+4reb+4ast, J.Hafsteinsson 7+1reb+3ast
IR: K.Biedler 23+5reb+7ast, J.Bartolotta 22+1reb+3ast, N.Sovic 22+8reb, N.Dungal 9+4reb+4ast, S.Claesson 7+1reb+1ast, H.Friariksson 4+3reb
gschID: 123778


KR - Njardvik 92-80

KR toppled Njardvik at home court to take the lead in the series. The hosts trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 59-42 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. KR looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American guard Marcus Walker (186-86, college: Colorado St., agency: 011 Sports) stepped up and scored 33 points (!!!), 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners and the former international guard Brynjar Bjoernsson (191-88, college: Francis Marion) chipped in 20 points and 5 rebounds. At the losing side American-German swingman Jonathan Moore (203-82, college: N.C.Central, agency: 540 Sports) responded with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds and American guard Giordan Watson (178-85, college: Cent.Michigan) scored 12 points and 6 assists. Four Njardvik players scored in double figures. Njardvik's coach Einar Johannson rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
KR: M.Walker 33+6reb+5ast, B.Bjoernsson 20+5reb+3ast, F.Magnusson 12+1reb+1ast, F.Alafsson 9+4reb, P.Ermolinskij 6+9reb+11ast, H.Magnusson 5+1reb
Njardvik: J.Moore 20+11reb+1ast, G.Watson 12+3reb+6ast, J.Alafsson 11+5reb+4ast, G.Jonsson 10+2reb+1ast, H.Einarsson 8+2reb, P.Kristinsson 7+2reb+1ast
gschID: 123775


Grindavik - Stjarnan 90-83

Grindavik overcame Stjarnan in the opener. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 28-20. But Stjarnan won second period 18-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Grindavik looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American swingman Nick Bradford (200-78, college: Kansas, agency: R.H.Consultancy) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and guard Olafur Olafsson (190-90) chipped in 17 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. At the losing side American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) responded with 21 points and 9 assists and the former international power forward Fannar Helgason (202-84) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 15 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Grindavik: M.Soskic 20+4reb+3ast, R.Pettinella 19+8reb, P.Axel Vilbergsson 18+6reb+1ast, O.Olafsson 17+5reb+7ast, N.Bradford 12+10reb+7ast, O.Savarsson 4+3reb
Stjarnan: J.Shouse 21+3reb+9ast, J.Zdravevski 17+3reb, R.Lindmets 16+4reb+3ast, M.Valdimarsson 14+3reb+1ast, F.Helgason 10+15reb+3ast, D.Guamundsson 3
gschID: 123776




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


Indian basketball's All Star Weekend on 8-9 April 2011 - by Anil Kumar
Get ready for basketballs brightest stars to shine together: For the second year, the top Men and Women players in India will descend to the Mastan YMCA in Mumbai to take part in Indian Basketballs All Star Weekend on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th of April, 2011. Organised by Ibrahim Lakdawala of Lakdawala Developer PVT. LTD., the two day event will host skills competitions on April 8th and the Men and Women All Star Games on April 9th, featuring the most talented players in the country divided into East and West sides.

Indias most popular and exciting players, from all over the country, have been invited by the organisers for this landmark event, which will be an opportunity for Indian hoops aficionados to see their favourite players in action against each other. We had organised the All Star Game on a small scale last year, said Lakdawala, a former national-level player for the country, who has been the brainchild behind the project, But this time, we will be hosting a much bigger event.

The events on Friday will include a three-point shooting competition for Men & Women and a Slam Dunk Competition for Men. The All Star Games will be held on Saturday evening: the participants in the two games will be divided into East and West sides. The all stars will include top-level players such as Jagdeep Singh, Yadwinder Singh, Trideep Rai, Vishesh Bhriguvanshi, Geethu Anna Jose, Anitha Pau Durai, Prashanti Singh, and Akanksha Singh.

It will be a fun festival of basketball, said Salim Shaikh, the co-organiser of the event, We hope that our players will enjoy participating against each other. There will be a lot of exciting prizes for all the players.

In addition, we will have a lot of merchandise for the fans, including T-shirts featuring their favourite Indian players, Shaikh added.

The All Star Game will also mark as a fitting prelude to the Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament, set to tip off at the Indian Gymkhana Grounds in Matunga, Mumbai, from April 10-17.

Indian All Star Teams

WOMEN
East
Anitha Pau Durai (Tamil Nadu) - Captain
Seema Singh (Chhattisgarh)
Sonika Ohylan (Delhi)
Raspreet Sidhu (Delhi)
Bharti Netam (Chhattisgarh)
Asha Hegde (Delhi)
Pushma M. (Chhattisgarh)
Anju Lakra (Chhattisgarh)
Savihta C.S. (Karnataka)
Manisha Dange (Maharashtra)

West

Prashanti Singh (Delhi) - Captain
Geethu Anna Jose (Tamil Nadu)
Divya Singh (Delhi)
Akanksha Singh (Delhi)
Varsha Verma (Delhi)
Kokila (Tamil Nadu)
Aakansha Singh (Chhattisgarh)
Sonam (Karnataka)
Sagarika Shyam (Karnataka)
Smrithi (Maharashtra)

MEN

East

Yadwinder Singh (Railways) - Captain
Vishesh Bhriguvanshi (Railways)
Trideep Rai (ONGC)
Anoop (ONGC)
Jai Ram Jat (Services)
Harish Koroth (IOB)
Shanmugam Sridhar (ONGC)
Arvind (Railways)
Arjun Singh (Railways)
Ajay Pratap Singh (Chhattisgarh)
Amrit Pal Singh (Punjab)
Murali Krishna R. (ONGC)

West

Riyazuddin (ONGC) - Captain
Jagdeep Singh (Punjab)
Shabeer (ONGC)
Mihir Pandey (IOB)
Jasjot Singh (Railways)
Narender Kumar (Services)
Mohit Bhandari (ONGC)
Gagandeep Singh (Railways)
Bobby Singh (Uttar Pradesh)
Talwinderjit Singh Sahi (Punjab)
Jaskaran Singh / Amjyot Singh (Punjab) not confirmed yet







Customs scores an easy win on day 7 of IOB-CDBA league - by M. Rajalingam
Chennai Customs scored an easy 70-51 victory over TN State Police in the IOB-CDBA Level 1 City basketball league championship for the Ponnappa Nadar Trophy on Wednesday.

Vinoth of Chennai Customs scored 16 points, helping his team to defeat their rivals with a stunning difference of 19 points.

The results: Chennai Customs 70 (Parthiban 15, Saravaranarajan 14, Vinoth 16, Ramakrishnan 10) bt TN State Police 51 ( Dinesh Kumar 29, Ramesh 10); Indian Bank 82 (Amarnath Gopi 22, Senthil Murugan 17, Carmel Joseph 18, Puvaneswaran 12) bt Gopalapuram BC 58 (Vignesh Muralidharan 18, James 11, Seenivasan 10); BSNL (Chennai) 53 (Delhiraj 22, Saravana Kumar 16) bt State Bank 28 (Soundararajan 10); ICF 52 (Thanvagelu 11, Akilan 17, Ashwin 10) bt Southern Railway 44 (Bernard Philips 12, Venkatesh 10, Navaneethan 10) .

Harish Sharma visits IMG Academy - by Anil Kumar
Basketball Federation of India (BFI) Secretary General Harish Sharma and IMG Senior Vice President, Global Business Development, Basketball, Bobby Sharma, recently visited with recipients of the inaugural IMG Reliance Scholarship Program at IMG Academies in Bradenton, Florida. Bobby Sharma recently joined IMG from the National Basketball Association (NBA) where he was Vice President & General Counsel of the NBA Development League.

Touring the 400-acre training complex, Harish Sharma and Bobby Sharma met with coaches, teachers and mentors of the young Indian athletes to both observe and understand their progression on and off the court. They were also gauging the basketball players for participation in next falls Sub-Junior National Championships in India, as well as exploring ways to implement additional IMG Performance Institute methodology into the students current training protocols.

Hearing about the tremendous progress of these young athletes is impressive, but witnessing it in-person is an altogether fascinating experience, said Harish Sharma of BFI. In just six months, they have become a part of the fabric of IMG Academies unique environment, embracing every opportunity to succeed on and off the court, remarked IMGs Bobby Sharma.

Twenty-nine students, including eight basketball players, arrived from India in September 2010 as part of the new scholarship program. For the past six months, they have been training alongside fellow scholar-athletes representing 80 countries around the world. IMG Reliance Pvt. Ltd., a joint venture between IMG Worldwide and the India-based Reliance Industries, is responsible for creating the scholarship program as part of a greater initiative to develop, market and manage sports and entertainment in India.

Last year, BFI has secured a 30-year sponsorship agreement with IMG-Reliance. IMG Worldwide is a US-based sports marketing company, and the Reliance Group is Indias largest private sector enterprise. The 30-year agreement will see IMG-Reliance assisting the BFI on financial, promotional, and technical aspects. As part of the agreement, the BFI has granted IMG Reliance commercial rights relating to basketball in India, including sponsorship, advertising, broadcasting, merchandising, film, video and data, intellectual property, franchising and new league rights.

Courtesy - BFI





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


All-Star game, Regular Season and Playoffs - by Chad Timberlake
I'm honored and I appreciate being selected to the All-Star game. Only two foreigners make the roster for each team and to have myself recognized as one of the two is something I'm proud of. The games on April 2nd come check us out.

The season is coming to an end. With 3 games left before the playoffs start our team is constantly getting better. We have had a new player and new offensive sets and we have needed every game to get settled and our chemistry going. It's been going good. We've won every game so far with the new change but from here on out it only gets tougher. Each game gets tougher and tougher. We start with Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan at home, then a trip to Hapoel Yokneam/Megido and then we finish with Maccabi Beer Yaakov. The last game we played was a tough one. We battled with Kohav Yair. It was a balanced team win. We all help and picked each other up. We had six player in double figures. I had a double double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, that's two games in a row with a double double. I'm approaching Kevin Love (208-C-88, college: UCLA)'s record!! Watch out son!

The weather has been clearing up and we have been having some hot days. I've been hanging out with Kyle and Jynae at the beach. Yesterday was pretty funny because we at the beach we bumped into some Israeli football players. American football. I haven't thrown around a football in a long time. I felt like Mark Sanchez out there. All my throws were off. hahaa I'm a Jets fan so I can say that.

Believe it or not this is my first year filling out a college basketball bracket and to be honest I am addicted after the first day. These little scholls battling it up with the mega programs and winning is amazing. seeing these small teams stand up to the bigger ones and not back down is great. It's the true David vs. Goliath cliche that you hear all the time. I'm amazed and I'm loving every minute of it. I myself played in the 64 but still I didn't have this fan connection with it that the bracketology just brought out of me. So far I'm in second place in our pool. St. John's and Louisville really screwed it up for me. Maybe my St. John's pick was that NY bias. Can't wait for the rest of the games to start up. I got Ohio St. winning it in mine. Let's see how that goes. I can't stand Duke and I hope they lose early. I don't care if they mess my bracket up haha. After watching Florida and SDSU play I became a fan and believer that those teams looked tough out there.

Another thing I'm getting excited about is baseball season. I've been keeping up with the preseason and A-Rod is starting to heat up, he has 4 homers already and looks to be in great form. I'm thinking this is going to be an MVP season for A-rod. Let's go Yankees!!

Ok readers, I wanted to talk about a fight in Holon but I still didn't get many details on it yet. All i know is that Sean Daniel (197-F-89) is strong hahaa

Your favorite blogger,

Chad Timberlake (194-G-84, college: Fairleigh Dickinson)

Standings - BSL
Premier League Standings
 1. Maccabi T-A 21-1 
 2. Hapoel J-M 13-8 
 3. Bnei Hasharon 13-8 
 4. Galil Gilboa 12-9 
 5. Maccabi Rishon 11-11 
 6. Hapoel Holon 10-11 
 7. Maccabi Ashdod 9-12 
 8. Elitzur Netanya 7-14 
 9. Maccabi Haifa 5-15 
 10. Ironi Ashkelon 5-16 


Stats Leaders - National League
Points Per Game
 Brian ASBURY
  Hapoel T-A
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 27.6
 1. Asbury, Hapoel T-A27.6 
 2. Moragne, Hapoel B.23.9 
 3. Hall, Beer Yaakov23.7 
 4. Clemente, Megido.22.9 
 5. Miller, Megido/Y.22.9 
 6. Delaney, Maccabi .21.4 
 7. Young, Hod Hasharon21.3 
 8. Gomez, Beer Yaakov21.1 
 9. Timberlake, Elitzu.20.7 
 10. Brown, Maccabi HBK20.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason JOHNSON
  Ironi Nahariya
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Johnson, Ironi N.12.6 
 2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.11.5 
 3. Clemente, Megido.10.5 
 4. Brandy, Hod H.10.4 
 5. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.9.8 
 6. Moragne, Hapoel B.9.3 
 7. McFarlin, Lev H.9.0 
 8. Strong, Hapoel T.8.9 
 9. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne8.9 
 10. Utter, Hapoel T-A8.9 
Assists Per Game
 Ofir FARHI
  Beer Yaakov
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Farhi, Beer Yaakov6.9 
 2. Lahat, Hapoel T-A6.5 
 3. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula6.0 
 4. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.5.9 
 5. Dobie, Lev Hasharon5.8 
 6. Bet-Yosef, Beer Y.5.6 
 7. Timor, Hapoel Tivon4.7 
 8. Fisher, Ironi R.4.7 
 9. Shifman, Hapoel Beeri4.5 
 10. Davidi, Elitzur Ramla4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Nate MILLER
  Megido/Yokneam
  (193-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Miller, Megido/Y.3.1 
 2. Bochman, Beer Y.2.7 
 3. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula2.7 
 4. Delaney, Maccabi .2.6 
 5. Markson, Hapoel A.2.4 
 6. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.2.2 
 7. Hofman, Elitzur .2.1 
 8. Young, Hod Hasharon2.0 
 9. Fisher, Ironi R.1.9 
 10. Lev, Maccabi HBK1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Shelton COLWELL
  Ironi Ramat Gan
  (202-C/F-80)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Colwell, Ironi R.2.2 
 2. Strong, Hapoel T.2.2 
 3. Utter, Hapoel T-A2.0 
 4. Rosefelt, Ironi R.2.0 
 5. Aidan, Hapoel Beeri1.7 
 6. Johnson, Ironi N.1.5 
 7. Hugee, Hapoel Afula1.5 
 8. Wade, Lev Hasharon1.5 
 9. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne1.4 
 10. Brandy, Hod H.1.3 


Israeli National League round 23 best performance: Brian Asbury - by Eurobasket News
American forward Brian Asbury (200-F-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Hapoel Usishkin Tel-Aviv, receiving a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 24-year old player had a double-double of 43 points and 13 rebounds, while his team outclassed Hapoel Afula (#8, 10-13) with 30-point margin 107-77. It allowed Hapoel T-A to consolidate first place in the Israeli National League. Hapoel T-A has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 21-2. In the team's last game Asbury had a remarkable 72.7% from 2-point range and got five three-pointers out of 8 attempts. He turned to be Hapoel T-A's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of Miami, Florida star has very solid stats this year. Asbury is league's best scorer averaging so far 27.6ppg. Asbury is in league's top in and averages impressive 1.1bpg,64.8% FGP and 43.0% from behind 3-point line.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Isaac Rosefelt (205-C/F-85, agency: Avi Zilberman) of Ironi Ramat Gan. Rosefelt had a very good evening with a double-double of 22 points and 17 rebounds. Of course Ironi Ramat Gan cruised to a 78-67 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Ironi Nahariya (#14, 5-18). This victory allowed Ironi Ramat Gan to move up to 7th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-12 record. Rosefelt is a newcomer at Ironi Ramat Gan, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Ramon Clemente (200-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) of Megido/Yokneam (#5). Clemente scored 29 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Clemente's great performance Megido/Yokneam lost 95-102 to the lower-ranked Lev Hasharon (#10, 10-13). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Megido/Yokneam needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 13 victories and 10 lost games. Clemente has a great season in Israel. After 23 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 22.9ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 10.5rpg (3rd best). He also has 1.2bpg and FGP: 63.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Shelton Colwell (202-C/F-80) of Ironi Ramat Gan - 24 points and 10 rebounds
5. Guy Lavie (188-G-92) of Lev Hasharon - 20 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Ofir Farhi (187-G-86) of Beer Yaakov - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 11 assists
7. Or Ron (181-G-88) of Hod Hasharon - 22 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Jeff Horovitz (206-C/F-85) of Hapoel Tivon - 21 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Bryant Markson (198-F-83) of Hapoel Afula - 26 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Lorrenzo Wade (198-F-85) of Lev Hasharon - 24 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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


Tarver & Kurtz to ASU , Danridge to Riyadi - by Omar Shafaamri
in their preparations for the West Asia League Play-off Game in 27th of March , ASU about to sign Guard Derrick Tarver (192-G-80, college: Akron) and Center Brandon Kurtz while Riyadi-Aramex signed Guard Anthony Steven Danridge .

Derrick Tarver is Scoring Machine Guard who is well known in the region , he already finshied his season in Kuwaiti League with Jahra Club averaging 25 points/3 assists/5 rebounds in 26 Minutes only as the kuwaiti league allows only 1 import on the court . Tarver played before in Lebanon , Syria and Iran . Brandon Kurz played last season in Argentina TNA League with San Martin Marcos Juarez club .

From the other Hand , Danridge played in D-League , ABA and Lebanon averaging there with Byblos club 28 pts in 39 Minutes .

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


Lietuvos Rytas lands Sherron Collins - by Eurobasket News
Sherron Collins (180-G-87, college: Kansas) is a new member of Lietuvos Rytas. The American point guard signed a deal for rest of the season. Collins started it with the Charlotte Bobcats averaging 1.1 points and 0.5 assists for 16 NBA games. He also appeared five times with the Maine Red Claws in NBDL adding 12 ppg and 3.2 apg.
This is the first professional season for Sherron Collins, who graduated last year at the University of Kansas. He had 15.5 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 4.5 apg for his school as a senior. For his performance Collins was named USBasket.com All-NCAA D1 2nd Team -10. In 2008, Kansas was the NCAA champion. Collins helped them with 9.3 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 3.1 apg. His best season with Kansas was 2008/09, when Collins made 18.9 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 5 apg.

Standings - LKL
LKL Standings
 1. Zalgiris 18-0 
 2. Lietuvos Rytas 16-2 
 3. Rudupis 13-5 
 4. Juventus 11-8 
 5. Siauliai 10-7 
 6. Techasas 10-9 
 7. Perlas 8-11 
 8. Neptunas 7-11 
 9. Nevezis 6-11 
 10. Naglis-Adakris 6-12 
 11. Sakalai 6-13 
 12. Aiscai Kaunas 6-13 
 13. Alytus Alita 2-17 


NKL Round 43: Erelita-KTU defeats leader Triobet Malsta - by Eurobasket News
There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in NKL. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with defeat of the leader and favorites losing the games.

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Triobet Malsta (17-22) in Jonava on Friday night. Hosts were defeated by Erelita-KTU (15-24) 71-59. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Erelita-KTU forced 23 Triobet Malsta turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Triobet Malsta helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Rokas Cepanonis (207-F/C-89) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Matas Sapiega (180-90) contributed with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Forward Ignas Dauksys (94-93) answered with 12 points for Triobet Malsta. Triobet Malsta's coach Kestutis Narusevicius rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Erelita-KTU maintains third place with 15-24 record in Group B. Triobet Malsta at the other side still keeps top position in the group with 22 games lost. Erelita-KTU is looking forward to face Delikatesas (#5) in Joniskis in the next round. Triobet Malsta will play on the road against ABRO-Universitetas (#6) in Siauliai and is hoping to win this game.
Important game to mention about took place in Pakruojis. Fourth ranked Meresta (25-16) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 3rd placed Mazeikiai (25-16) 66-64 in the fight for the third place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mazeikiai. It was a great evening for guard Simonas Slivka (194-86) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds. Mindaugas Kumpis helped adding 10 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Bryan Harrison (188-84, college: Georgia Coll.) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 assists. Meresta moved-up to third place, which they share with defeated Mazeikiai. Meresta will play against LKKA-Atletas (#5) in Kaunas in the next round. Mazeikiai will play at home against the league's second-placed Radviliskis and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of Silute (16-23) against Delikatesas (14-25) on Friday night. Visiting Silute was defeated by Delikatesas in a tough game in Joniskis 78-87. It was an exceptional evening for Vytautas-Edvardas Pikalavicius who led the winners and scored 22 points and 9 rebounds. Vytautas Nedzinskas came up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds for Silute in the defeat. Delikatesas maintains fifth place in Group B with 14-25 record. Loser Silute keeps the second position in Group B with 23 games lost. Delikatesas will meet higher ranked Erelita-KTU (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Silute will play against Akademija in Vilnius and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Pieno Zvaigzdes (40-1) which played road game in Radviliskis against their biggest opponent Radviliskis (27-14). First ranked Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to get a 6-point victory 87-81. Darrick Leonard fired a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Pieno Zvaigzdes have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 40-1 record. Radviliskis at the other side keeps the second position with 14 games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes' next round opponent will be Nafta Universitetas (#7) in Klaipeda which should be theoretically an easy game. Radviliskis will play on the road against Mazeikiai (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Vilnius was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked LKKA-Atletas (23-18) played at the court of 8th ranked Perlas-MRU (17-24). LKKA-Atletas managed to secure a 5-point victory 79-74 on Friday. It was a very good performance for Vidmantas Sragauskis who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 4 assists. The victory was the third consecutive win for LKKA-Atletas. They maintain fifth place with 23-18 record. Loser Perlas-MRU keeps the eighth position with 24 games lost. LKKA-Atletas will face higher ranked Meresta (#4) in Pakruojis in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Perlas-MRU will play on the road against Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in Kaunas and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 43 Puntukas was beaten by Akademija on the road 93-88. Zalgiris-Sabonio won against Nafta Universitetas on its own court 84-74.
The most impressive performance of 43th round was 33 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds by Janas Jurgo of Akademija.

Delikatesas - Silute 87-78

Very important is a road loss of Silute (16-23) against Delikatesas (14-25) on Friday night. Visiting Silute was defeated by Delikatesas in a tough game in Joniskis 78-87. The hosts trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 23-13 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Delikatesas forced 20 Silute turnovers. Strangely Silute outrebounded Delikatesas 38-26 including a 32-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for swingman Vytautas-Edvardas Pikalavicius (196-90) who led the winners and scored 22 points and 9 rebounds. Ukrainian guard Klym Artamonov (176-93) accounted for 14 points and 10 assists for the winning side. Swingman Vytautas Nedzinskas (196-87) came up with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds and center Arvydas Vaitiekus (210-83, college: Marshalltown CC) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Silute in the defeat. Four Delikatesas and five Silute players scored in double figures. Delikatesas maintains fifth place in Group B with 14-25 record. Loser Silute keeps the second position with 23 games lost. Delikatesas will meet higher ranked Erelita-KTU (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Silute will play against Akademija in Vilnius and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Delikatesas: V.Pikalavicius 22+9reb+3ast, J.Jucikas 20, K.Artamonov 14+1reb+10ast, J.Blazys 11+5reb, M.Keras 8+5reb, L.Kutra 7+4reb+4ast
Silute: V.Nedzinskas 13+13reb+2ast, R.Dimiciukas 13+3reb+3ast, A.Vaitiekus 11+7reb+2ast, J.Nausedas 11+1reb+4ast, E.Ramanauskas 10+4reb, J.Cesnavicius 10+4reb+4ast
gschID: 123073


Triobet Malsta - Erelita 59-71

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Triobet Malsta (17-22) in Jonava on Friday night. Hosts were defeated by Erelita-KTU (15-24) 71-59. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Erelita-KTU forced 23 Triobet Malsta turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Triobet Malsta helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Rokas Cepanonis (207-89) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Matas Sapiega (180-90) contributed with 10 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Four Erelita-KTU players scored in double figures. Forward Ignas Dauksys (94-93) answered with 12 points and forward Henrikas Vorotnikovas (202-90) added 10 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Triobet Malsta. Triobet Malsta's coach Kestutis Narusevicius rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Erelita-KTU maintains third place in Group B with 15-24 record. Triobet Malsta at the other side still keeps top position in the group with 22 games lost. Erelita-KTU is looking forward to face Delikatesas (#5) in Joniskis in the next round. Triobet Malsta will play on the road against ABRO-Universitetas (#6) in Siauliai and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Erelita: R.Cepanonis 19+7reb, V.Metelica 14+4reb+1ast, A.Pelss 11+4reb+2ast, M.Sapiega 10+5reb+5ast, K.Pupinis 8+11reb, M.Mackevicius 5+2reb
Triobet Malsta: I.Dauksys 12+3reb+1ast, R.Juknevicius 11+1reb, H.Vorotnikovas 10+5reb, T.Milinskas 6+3reb, V.Kruzikas 5+2reb, T.Sebeziovas 5+2ast
gschID: 123074


Akademija - Puntukas 93-88

No shocking result in a game when Akademija (15-24) beat Puntukas (11-29) in Vilnius 93-88 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 29-18 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Akademija outrebounded Puntukas 44-28 including a 23-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Akademija made 7 blocks. Puntukas was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds. Center Egidijus Mockevicius (204-92) contributed with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 15 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Forward Darius Tarvydas (200-91) answered with 22 points and 4 assists and center Paulius Joneliunas (211-84, college: American) added 18 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Puntukas. Five Akademija and four Puntukas players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. The victory was the sixth consecutive win for Akademija. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Erelita in Group B. Newly promoted Puntukas keeps the seventh position with 29 games lost. Akademija will face league's second-placed Silute on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week.
Top scorers:
Akademija: J.Jurgo 33+11reb+2ast, E.Mockevicius 15+15reb+1ast, M.Paliukenas 15+1reb+6ast, T.Lekunas 14+6reb+5ast, O.Olisevicius 10+7reb+4ast, P.Lescinskas 2+3reb+2ast
Puntukas: D.Tarvydas 22+4reb+4ast, L.Kazlauskas 18+3reb+3ast, P.Joneliunas 18+9reb+2ast, T.Rinkunas 17+1ast, D.Keburys 4+3reb, G.Butkus 3+2reb+6ast
gschID: 123075


Meresta - Mazeikiai 66-64

Important game to mention about took place in Pakruojis. Fourth ranked Meresta (25-16) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 3rd placed Mazeikiai (25-16) 66-64 in the fight for the third place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mazeikiai. Mazeikiai was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 16-12 charge of Meresta, which allowed them to win the game. It was a great evening for guard Simonas Slivka (194-86) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds. Forward Mindaugas Kumpis (202-82) helped adding 10 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side American guard Bryan Harrison (188-84, college: Georgia Coll.) responded with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 assists and the other American import swingman Jason Warren (201-84, college: Missouri Western) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds. Meresta moved-up to third place, which they share with defeated Mazeikiai. Meresta will play against LKKA-Atletas (#5) in Kaunas in the next round. Mazeikiai will play at home against the league's second-placed Radviliskis and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Meresta: S.Slivka 22+12reb+1ast, A.Danusevicius 10+1reb+1ast, M.Kumpis 10+7reb+1ast, T.Druktenis 9+7reb, M.Jankaitis 6+4reb+3ast, T.Balciunas 5+3reb+3ast
Mazeikiai: B.Harrison 17+4reb+10ast, M.Sidlauskas 16+5reb+2ast, J.Warren 12+12reb, M.Norkus 7+3reb+1ast, M.Guzauskis 5+5reb, V.Luksa 4+3reb
gschID: 123070


Perlas-MRU - LKKA-Atletas 74-79

The game in Vilnius was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked LKKA-Atletas (23-18) played at the court of 8th ranked Perlas-MRU (17-24). LKKA-Atletas managed to secure a 5-point victory 79-74 on Friday. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-74. LKKA-Atletas forced 20 Perlas-MRU turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a very good performance for forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 4 assists. Guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-89) contributed with 21 points for the winners. Forward Tadas Padegimas (201-90) answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds and guard Paulius Semaska (179-93) added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists in the effort for Perlas-MRU. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The victory was the third consecutive win for LKKA-Atletas. They maintain fifth place with 23-18 record. Loser Perlas-MRU keeps the eighth position with 24 games lost. LKKA-Atletas will face higher ranked Meresta (#4) in Pakruojis in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Perlas-MRU will play on the road against Zalgiris-Sabonio (#6) in Kaunas and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
LKKA-Atletas: V.Sragauskis 21+4reb+4ast, S.Vingelis 21+1reb+3ast, T.Urbonas 11+10reb+1ast, D.Gricius 11+3reb+4ast, P.Ceicys 8+3reb+3ast, A.Sakalauskas 5+9reb+2ast
Perlas-MRU: A.Gorskovas 18+5reb+2ast, T.Padegimas 17+8reb+3ast, M.Kazonas 15+5reb+1ast, P.Semaska 13+6reb+7ast, D.Pipiras 5+5reb, E.Lengvinas 4+2reb
gschID: 123071


Zalgiris-Sabonio - Nafta Universitetas 84-74

Everything could happen in Kaunas at the game between two tied teams. Both seventh ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio and 6th ranked Nafta Universitetas had identical 21-19 record. This time Zalgiris-Sabonio used a home court advantage and defeated the opponent from Klaipeda 84-74 on Friday night. The hosts trailed by 8 points at the halftime before their 45-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Zalgiris-Sabonio outrebounded Nafta Universitetas 40-23 including a 30-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Nafta Universitetas was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Quite impressive performance for center Mindaugas Kupsas (215-91) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 19 rebounds. Center Gediminas Zyle (209-88) contributed with 19 points and 4 assists for the winners. Five Zalgiris-Sabonio players scored in double figures. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Priit Vene used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Marius Sumskis (203-88) answered with 18 points and guard Haroldas Venskus (180-91) added 15 points and 4 assists in the effort for Nafta Universitetas. Zalgiris-Sabonio (22-19) moved-up to sixth place. Nafta Universitetas lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the seventh position with 20 games lost. Zalgiris-Sabonio will face Perlas-MRU (#8) in Vilnius in the next round. Nafta Universitetas will play on the road against the league's leader Pieno Zvaigzdes in Pasvalys.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris-Sabonio: G.Zyle 19+2reb+4ast, M.Kupsas 17+19reb+1ast, Z.Skucas 13+6reb+1ast, K.Vecvagars 11, V.Kariniauskas 11+2reb+2ast, T.Dimsa 6+2reb
Nafta Universitetas: M.Sumskis 18+3reb+3ast, H.Venskus 15+4reb+4ast, M.Girdziunas 11+1reb+1ast, D.Norkus 8+5reb, T.Klimas 7+4reb+1ast, A.Bulsis 5+4reb+1ast
gschID: 123072


Radviliskis - Pieno Zvaigzdes 81-87

An interesting game for Pieno Zvaigzdes (40-1) which played road game in Radviliskis against their biggest opponent Radviliskis (27-14). First ranked Pieno Zvaigzdes managed to get a 6-point victory 87-81. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Radviliskis won third quarter 16-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American guard Darrick Leonard (188-84, college: Aurora) fired a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Forward Darius Griskenas (194-84) chipped in 22 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Martynas Binza (202-82) produced 19 points and 9 rebounds and guard Lukas Pipiras (192-89) added 15 points and 11 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Pieno Zvaigzdes have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain first place with 40-1 record. Radviliskis at the other side keeps the second position with 14 games lost. Pieno Zvaigzdes' next round opponent will be Nafta Universitetas (#7) in Klaipeda which should be theoretically an easy game. Radviliskis will play on the road against Mazeikiai (#3) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pieno Zvaigzdes: D.Griskenas 22+6reb+1ast, D.Leonard 18+11reb+6ast, G.Vileita 11+2reb+2ast, Z.Fredrick 10+4reb+2ast, A.Masiulis 8+5reb+1ast, A.Kazlauskas 7+1ast
Radviliskis: M.Binza 19+9reb+2ast, Z.Kuklierius 17+3reb+5ast, L.Valantinas 15+3ast, L.Pipiras 15+11reb, R.Rauktys 8+5reb+2ast, D.Rekasius 7+1reb+2ast
gschID: 123069




Standings - NKL
NKL Standings
Group A
 1. Pieno Zvaigzdes 40-1 
 2. Radviliskis 27-14 
 3. Mazeikiai 25-16 
 4. Meresta 25-16 
 5. LKKA-Atletas 23-18 
 6. Zalgiris-Sabonio 22-19 
 7. Nafta Universitetas 21-20 
 8. Perlas-MRU 17-24 
Group B
 1. Triobet Malsta 17-22 
 2. Silute 16-23 
 3. Erelita 15-24 
 4. Akademija 15-24 
 5. Delikatesas 14-25 
 6. ABRO-Univ. 13-26 
 7. Puntukas 11-29 


Stats Leaders - LKL
Points Per Game
 Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 16.8
 1. Kieza, Juventus16.8 
 2. Dilys, Naglis-Adakris16.4 
 3. Alijevas, Nevezis15.8 
 4. Dimsa, Nevezis15.7 
 5. Vasylius, Neptunas15.4 
 6. Mikalauskas, Naglis.14.7 
 7. Mazeika, Neptunas14.3 
 8. Juskevicius, Rudupis14.3 
 9. Sirvydis, Sakalai14.1 
 10. Ruikis, Neptunas14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Kieza, Juventus10.8 
 2. Janisius, Alytus A.10.4 
 3. Sarakauskas, Siauliai9.4 
 4. Valanciunas, Lietuv.8.5 
 5. Dimsa, Nevezis7.5 
 6. Jankunas, Zalgiris7.1 
 7. Vasylius, Neptunas7.0 
 8. Matulis, Sakalai7.0 
 9. Mikalauskas, Naglis.6.7 
 10. Klimavicius, Zalgiris6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Rolandas ALIJEVAS
  Nevezis
  (192-G-85)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Alijevas, Nevezis6.1 
 2. Rinkevicius, Techasas5.5 
 3. Juskevicius, Rudupis5.3 
 4. Broadus, Siauliai5.2 
 5. Collins, Zalgiris4.5 
 6. El-Amin, Lietuvos.4.4 
 7. Janavicius, Siauliai4.3 
 8. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris4.1 
 9. Kalnietis, Zalgiris4.1 
 10. Viskontas, Perlas3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Tomas RINKEVICIUS
  Techasas
  (178-G-78)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Rinkevicius, Techasas2.2 
 2. Razutis, Naglis-A.2.0 
 3. Vasylius, Neptunas2.0 
 4. Juskevicius, Rudupis1.9 
 5. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris1.8 
 6. Alijevas, Nevezis1.8 
 7. Valukonis, Techasas1.7 
 8. Jasikevicius, Aiscai K.1.7 
 9. Ruikis, Neptunas1.7 
 10. Lipkevicius, Rudupis1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Mirza BEGIC
  Real Madrid
  (216-C-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Begic, Zalgiris2.4 
 2. Valanciunas, Lietuv.2.2 
 3. Silinskis, Techasas2.0 
 4. Cresnar, Nevezis1.5 
 5. Volkus, Techasas1.1 
 6. Klimavicius, Zalgiris1.1 
 7. Zelionis, Rudupis0.9 
 8. Jankauskas, Rudupis0.9 
 9. Cepukaitis, Juven.0.9 
 10. Sarakauskas, Siauliai0.8 


Stats Leaders - NKL
Points Per Game
 Vidmantas SRAGAUSKIS
  LKKA-Atletas
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Sragauskis, LKKA-.21.9 
 2. Petraitis, Delikate.21.6 
 3. Vingelis, LKKA-.20.3 
 4. Tarvydas, Puntukas18.3 
 5. Jurkus, Silute17.8 
 6. Sebeziovas, Triobe.16.4 
 7. Cizauskas, Zalgir.16.4 
 8. Mineikis, Radviliskis16.3 
 9. Jacevicius, Perla.16.2 
 10. Girdziunas, Nafta U.15.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Egidijus MOCKEVICIUS
  Akademija
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Mockevicius, Akade.10.7 
 2. Pikalavicius, Delika.10.2 
 3. Oladimeji, Radvilis.9.5 
 4. Warren, Mazeikiai8.7 
 5. Nedzinskas, Silute8.7 
 6. Brusokas, Perla.8.5 
 7. Mineikis, Radviliskis7.7 
 8. Kupsas, Zalgir.7.5 
 9. Kaupaitis, Silute7.2 
 10. Kazakauskas, Nafta U.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 7.2
 1. Harrison, Mazeikiai7.2 
 2. Vingelis, LKKA-.5.1 
 3. Kuklierius, Radvilis.4.9 
 4. Sapiega, Erelita4.9 
 5. Cizauskas, Zalgir.4.6 
 6. Leonard, Pieno Z.4.5 
 7. Kutra, Delikatesas4.3 
 8. Virsilas, Silute4.1 
 9. Vasiliauskas, Triobe.4.1 
 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. Vileita, Pieno Z.2.4 
 5. Metelica, Erelita2.4 
 6. Vasiliauskas, Triobe.2.3 
 7. Kutra, Delikatesas2.2 
 8. Sapiega, Erelita2.1 
 9. Pauliukenas, Akade.2.1 
 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.2.3 
 3. Kupsas, Zalgir.1.9 
 4. Jucikas, Delikatesas1.7 
 5. Oladimeji, Radvilis.1.5 
 6. Pupinis, Erelita1.2 
 7. Ramanauskas, Sil.1.2 
 8. Ramasauskas, ABRO-.1.0 
 9. Bernataviciu., Triobe.0.9 
 10. Milinskas, Triobe.0.9 


*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG   


National 2 Avanti Mondorf Coach Konsbruck replaced by former Etzella Star Gilles Becker - by John Thomas
March 19, 2011
Mondorf, Luxembourg

National 2 team Avanti Mondorf has parted ways with their head coach Guy Konsbruck. Former Etzella playmaker Gllles Becker, who ended his career last season, with Contern, takes over as the new head coach. Mondorf is currently the leader in the play-off-group in the Nationale 2. Mondorf is 10-6 and tied for 1st place with BBC Nitia in the race to see who will go up to the DBBL for next season. Becker had a stellar career at Etzella Ettelbruck winning multiple DBBL Championships and Cup titles as their starting point guard. Becker also played for many years on the Luxembourg National team. Mondorf won its first game with Becker at the helm with an impressive 67-41 win over BC Mess on March 12th. Mondorf has 4 games remaining and will play tonight at BBC Nitia in Betttembourg.



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


Abu-Shamala number one in Mexico for round 4 - by Eurobasket News
Jordanian-American swingman Jamal Abu-Shamala (196-G/F-87) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Hermosillo, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 4.
The 23-year old player was the main contributor (26 points, nine rebounds and four assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush, the league's bottom-ranked team Mexicali (#9, 0-4) with 17-point margin 105-88. Hermosillo maintains the 2nd position in Mexican CIBACOPA. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. The season is still on an early stage, but Hermosillo already had a very good start winning all 4 without losing a single one. In the team's last game Abu-Shamala had a remarkable 88.9% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Hermosillo, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Jamal Abu-Shamala averages this season 18.3ppg and 6.0rpg. Worth to mention Abu-Shamala played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Jerome Habel (208-F-85) of Guaymas. Habel had a very good evening with 29 points and 7 rebounds. Of course Guaymas cruised to a 94-83 overtime win over Los Mochis (#8, 0-4). This victory allowed Guaymas to move up to 5th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 2-2 record is not bad and everything may still change. Habel is one of the most experienced players at Guaymas and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was Bahamas forward Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74) of Nogales (#6). Moss got into 30-points club by scoring exactly 30 points in the last round. He went also for nineteen rebounds . Despite Moss' great performance Nogales lost 110-111in overtime to slightly higher-ranked Guasave (#4, 3-1). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Nogales needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 2 victories and 2 lost games. Moss has a great season in Mexico. After only 4 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 29.5ppg (3rd best) and rebounds with 12.3rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ira Brown (193-F-82) of Tepic - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists
5. Jermaine Watson (193-G-81) of Tijuana - 30 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Michael Strobbe (201-F-85) of Guasave - 20 points and 14 rebounds
7. Steve Monreal (180-G) of Hermosillo - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Bryant Matthews (201-G/F-82) of Nogales - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Davin White (186-G-81) of Cananea - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) of Culiacan - 28 points, 2 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)

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Michael GALE
  Mexicali
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 30
 1. Gale, Mexicali30.0 
 2. White, Cananea29.8 
 3. Moss, Nogales29.5 
 4. Webb, Culiacan27.7 
 5. Sowell, Culiacan27.0 
 6. Barrett, Guasave26.0 
 7. Thomas, Cananea25.8 
 8. White, Los Mochis25.3 
 9. Moore, Tijuana23.5 
 10. Watson, Tijuana21.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ryan MOSS
  Nogales
  (200-F/C-74)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Moss, Nogales12.3 
 2. Moore, Tijuana10.0 
 3. Shipley, Tijuana9.3 
 4. White, Los Mochis8.0 
 5. Strobbe, Guasave8.0 
 6. Brown, Nogales8.0 
 7. Morgan, Culiacan7.5 
 8. Angulo, Los Mochis7.5 
 9. Fox, Los Mochis7.3 
 10. Brown, Tepic7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Ira BROWN
  Tepic
  (193-F-82)
  Avg: 7
 1. Brown, Tepic7.0 
 2. Watson, Tijuana6.8 
 3. Meza, Culiacan6.5 
 4. Monreal, Hermosillo4.3 
 5. White, Los Mochis4.3 
 6. White, Cananea4.0 
 7. Funn, Guasave3.8 
 8. Brown, Nogales3.8 
 9. Sowell, Culiacan3.3 
 10. Bucio, Guaymas3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Ramon ESTRADA
  Tepic
  (183-G-)
  Avg: 3
 1. Estrada, Tepic3.0 
 2. Matthews, Nogales2.5 
 3. Thomas, Cananea2.0 
 4. Gale, Mexicali1.8 
 5. Monreal, Hermosillo1.8 
 6. Brown, Nogales1.8 
 7. Webb, Culiacan1.7 
 8. Sims, Los Mochis1.7 
 9. Penny, Mexicali1.5 
 10. Gonner, Guaymas1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Dainmon GONNER
  Guaymas
  (198-F-80)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Gonner, Guaymas3.5 
 2. Webb, Culiacan2.7 
 3. Matthews, Nogales2.5 
 4. Funn, Guasave2.5 
 5. Jones, Tepic2.3 
 6. Watson, Tijuana2.3 
 7. Thomas, Cananea2.3 
 8. Galindo, Culiacan2.0 
 9. Rojas, Tepic2.0 
 10. Brown, Tepic2.0 


CIBACOPA Round 4 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Fifth ranked Frayles de Guasave won an overtime thriller edging one of their biggest challengers Fuerza Guinda Nogales by one point 111-110. The game took place in Nogales. But the guests from Guasave were better at the end. Worth to mention a great performance of Rasheem Barrett (196-G-87, agency: SportsList Inc., college: Auburn) who helped to win the game recording 29 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Frayles de Guasave (3-1) moved-up to third place, which they share with Cananea. Fuerza Guinda Nogales at the other side dropped to the fifth position with two games lost. Frayles de Guasave's next round opponent will be Tijuana Zonkeys (#7) at home. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play against Mineros de Cananea and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Pioneros Los Mochis (#8) forced the game against Ostioneros de Guaymas (#7) into an overtime, but lost by eleven points 83-94 on Wednesday night. The game took place in Los Mochis. But the guests from Guaymas were better at the end. Worth to mention a great performance of Jerome Habel who helped to win the game recording 29 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Ostioneros de Guaymas (2-2) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Tijuana and Nogales. Loser Pioneros Los Mochis still closes the standings with four games lost. Ostioneros de Guaymas will face bottom-ranked Coras de Tepic (#10) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Pioneros Los Mochis will play against Bomberos de Mexicali and hope to get finally their first victory.

The most impressive stats of the last round was 26 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists by Jamal Abu-Shamala of Hermosillo.

Tijuana - Cananea 82-90

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both third ranked Mineros de Cananea and 6th ranked Tijuana Zonkeys had identical 2-1 record. But Tijuana Zonkeys were not able to use a home court advantage and were defeated by the opponent from Cananea 90-82 on Wednesday night. The guests trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 48-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Mineros de Cananea made 31-of-38 free shots (81.6 percent) during the game, while Tijuana Zonkeys only scored eight points from the stripe. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Mineros de Cananea made 10 blocks. Tijuana Zonkeys were plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) who helped to win the game recording 20 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 blocks and the other American import forward Derek Thomas (193-84, college: Appalachian St.) who added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. Five Mineros de Cananea players scored in double figures. Mineros de Cananea's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Canadian guard Jermaine Watson (193-81, college: Boston Coll., agency: KMG Sports Management) responded with 30 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and American forward Christopher Moore (205-82, college: Virginia Union, agency: Pro Management Agency) produced a double-double by scoring 23 points and 11 rebounds. Mineros de Cananea have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 3-1 record behind leader Culiacan, which they share with Guasave. Loser Tijuana Zonkeys dropped to the fifth place with two games lost. Mineros de Cananea will face Fuerza Guinda Nogales (#6) at home in the next round. Tijuana Zonkeys will play against Frayles de Guasave and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Tijuana: J.Watson 30+6reb+6ast, C.Moore 23+11reb+1ast, L.Ramirez 21+2ast, G.Shipley 6+6reb+1ast, A.Ornelas 2+1reb+1ast, F.Valenzuela 0
Cananea: D.White 20+7reb+5ast, F.Harris 18+6reb+1ast, D.Thomas 17+6reb+5ast, P.Darden 13+8reb, E.Soto 11, O.Zuniga 6+1reb+1ast
gschID: 122809


Tepic - Culiacan 75-95

Very predictable result when top-ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (4-0) smashed on the road bottom-ranked Coras de Tepic (0-4) 95-75 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Caballeros de Culiacan. Coras de Tepic was better in third quarter 18-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Caballeros de Culiacan made 7 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Kevin Sowell (190-81) who helped to win the game recording 28 points and 4 assists and the other American import swingman Joel Webb (201-82, college: Bellevue, agency: 011 Sports) who added 24 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Sowell is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Caballeros de Culiacan players scored in double figures. At the losing side American forward Ira Brown (193-82, college: Gonzaga, agency: Dream Team Management) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists and swingman Juan Pablo Bravo (191) scored 20 points and 6 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Caballeros de Culiacan have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 4-0 record, which they share with Hermosillo. Loser Coras de Tepic still closes the standings with four games lost. Caballeros de Culiacan will face league's second-placed Rayos de Hermosillo at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Coras de Tepic will play against Ostioneros de Guaymas (#5) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Tepic: I.Brown 24+6reb+10ast, J.Pablo Bravo 20+3reb+6ast, P.Lawal 13+8reb+3ast, A.Cortez 7+2ast, D.Little 4+6reb+1ast, R.Estrada 4+1reb+2ast
Culiacan: K.Sowell 28+2reb+4ast, J.Webb 24+5reb+1ast, S.Morgan 14+11reb+2ast, D.Meza 11+2reb+6ast, V.Avila 6+3reb+3ast, J.Carlos Amador 6
gschID: 122810


Hermosillo - Mexicali 105-88

Not a big story in a game when bottom-ranked Bomberos de Mexicali (0-4) was defeated on the road by top-ranked Rayos de Hermosillo (4-0) 105-88 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Rayos de Hermosillo. Bomberos de Mexicali was better in third quarter 26-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rayos de Hermosillo made 25-of-33 free shots (75.8 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Rayos de Hermosillo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of Jordanian-American swingman Jamal Abu-Shamala (196-87, college: Minnesota) who helped to win the game recording 26 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and American guard Steve Monreal (180, college: Cal.St.-Monterey) who added 24 points and 6 assists during the contest. Abu-Shamala is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas. Rayos de Hermosillo's coach Dan Tacheny used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side the former international power forward Hugo Carrillo (205-83) responded with 25 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) scored 20 points. Four Bomberos de Mexicali players scored in double figures. Rayos de Hermosillo have a solid four-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Culiacan. Loser Bomberos de Mexicali still closes the standings with four games lost. Rayos de Hermosillo will face league's leader Caballeros de Culiacan on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Bomberos de Mexicali will play against Pioneros Los Mochis (#8) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Mexicali: H.Carrillo 25+5reb+1ast, M.Gale 20+4reb, R.Lopez 12+7reb+4ast, E.Cuen 12+1reb, A.Vazquez 7+2reb, P.Giron 6+1reb+1ast
Hermosillo: J.Abu-Shamala 26+9reb+4ast, S.Monreal 24+3reb+6ast, C.Holmes 18+4reb+2ast, M.Gray 9+3reb, J.Manuel Esteva 9+6reb+1ast, R.Rivera 7
gschID: 122811


Nogales - Guasave 110-111 OT

Fifth ranked Frayles de Guasave won an overtime thriller edging one of their biggest challengers Fuerza Guinda Nogales by one point 111-110. The game took place in Nogales. But the guests from Guasave were better at the end. It looked good early as Fuerza Guinda Nogales took an 17-point lead at the end of first quarter. Then Frayles de Guasave took control and eventually winning the game that evening in overtime by 1 point. Frayles de Guasave shot 24 for 38 from the free-throw line, while Fuerza Guinda Nogales only scored eight points from the stripe. Frayles de Guasave brought some defensive toughness making 17 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Rasheem Barrett (196-87, college: Auburn, agency: SportsList Inc.) who helped to win the game recording 29 points and 6 rebounds. International forward Michael Strobbe (201-85) contributed with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 14 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws) for the winners. Bahamas power forward Ryan Moss (200-74, college: UALR) replied with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 19 rebounds and American forward Damone Brown (204-79, college: Syracuse) added 19 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Fuerza Guinda Nogales. Five Frayles de Guasave and four Fuerza Guinda Nogales players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Frayles de Guasave (3-1) moved-up to third place, which they share with Cananea. Fuerza Guinda Nogales at the other side dropped to the fifth position with two games lost. Frayles de Guasave's next round opponent will be Tijuana Zonkeys (#7) at home. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will play against Mineros de Cananea and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Nogales: R.Moss 30+19reb+1ast, O.Quintero 26+2reb+2ast, B.Matthews 19+5reb+3ast, D.Brown 19+10reb+5ast, N.Brown 9+7reb+4ast, B.Heredia 3
Guasave: R.Barrett 29+6reb+1ast, A.Izaguirre 22+5reb+2ast, M.Strobbe 20+14reb+1ast, W.Funn 13+6reb+3ast, G.Giron 13+2reb+4ast, J.Barnes 12+2reb+2ast
gschID: 122812


Los Mochis - Guaymas 83-94 OT

Pioneros Los Mochis (#8) forced the game against Ostioneros de Guaymas (#7) into an overtime, but lost by eleven points 83-94 on Wednesday night. The game took place in Los Mochis. But the guests from Guaymas were better at the end. Pioneros Los Mochis were trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 16-15 charge of Ostioneros de Guaymas, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 20-9. Ostioneros de Guaymas dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Pioneros Los Mochis' 50. Pioneros Los Mochis were plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) who helped to win the game recording 29 points and 7 rebounds and guard Hector Nungaray (178-78) who added 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists during the contest. At the losing side American guard Detrick White (184-76, college: Mississippi St.) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import center Isaiah Fox (206-83, college: Arizona) scored 9 points and 11 rebounds. Four Pioneros Los Mochis players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Ostioneros de Guaymas (2-2) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Tijuana and Nogales. Loser Pioneros Los Mochis still closes the standings with four games lost. Ostioneros de Guaymas will face bottom-ranked Coras de Tepic (#10) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Pioneros Los Mochis will play against Bomberos de Mexicali and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Los Mochis: D.White 21+6reb+2ast, C.M. Toussaint 17+2reb+2ast, N.Sims 11+7reb+2ast, A.Verdugo 11+2reb+1ast, R.Urias 10+7reb, I.Fox 9+11reb+2ast
Guaymas: J.Habel 29+7reb, H.Nungaray 18+6reb+4ast, J.Luis Bucio 14+3reb+1ast, R.Benitez 8+3reb, R.Navarro 8+5reb+2ast, O.Lopez 6+2reb
gschID: 122808




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


Ulcinj gets bigger with Sasa Mijajlovic - by Eurobasket News
Ulcinj announced signing of Sasa Mijajlovic (211-C-80, college: Hutchinson CC) for rest of the season. The experienced center will try to reinforce Ulcinjs inside game. Mijajlovic heads to Ulcinj from Sloga. He appeared 8 times in Serbian league averaging 18.3 points and 9.6 rebounds. Mijajlovic started the season in Slovenia as a member of Zlatorog Lasko. He played 8 games for them collecting 7.3 points and 5 boards.
Last season, Sasa Mijajlovic split between CSM Bucharesti and Beograd. He had 9.8 ppg and 7.6 rpg for 15 games in Romanian league. Later with Beograd he added 11.4 ppg and 4.8 rpg in Serbian championship. In the past, Mijajlovic was a member of CSU Brasov, Omonia Nicosia, Igokea and Keravnos. With Keravnos he won the Cypriot Cup in 2007.

Lovcen adds Aleksandar Jevdjic - by Eurobasket News
Aleksandar Jevdjic (203-C-82, agency: BeoExcell) is a new player of Lovcen Cetinje. The Serbian SF/PF signed a deal for rest of the season. He arrives to Lovcen from Vojvodina Srbijagas, where he had 11.2 points and 4 rebounds for 26 league games. Last season Jevdjic also spent with Vojvodina. He appeared 24 times for them registering 9.3 ppg and 3.8 rpg.
Before Vojvodina, Aleksandar Jevdjic spent one season with Swisslions Takovo Vrsac. In 2007/08, he had 8.5 ppg and 1.1 rpg for 20 games in Slovenian league with Zlatorog Lasko. Jevdjic also played for Lasko in the past and he also has experience from Geoplin Slovan. Jevdjic is a product of Partizan youth selections and later he played for Borac Cacak and Sloga.
Lovcen finished the first stage in Montenegrin league on the second place with 14-4 score.

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


Bobcats sign G Temple to 2nd 10-day contract - by Eurobasket News
The Charlotte Bobcats have signed point guard Garrett Temple (6'6''-G-86, college: LSU) to a second 10-day contract.

Temple has appeared in two games and missed both shots he's attempted for Charlotte since first being signed March 7. He was re-signed Thursday.

Coach Paul Silas said earlier this week he's been impressed with Temple in practice and wanted him to stick around as the No. 3 point guard behind D.J. Augustin and Shaun Livingston.

The 6-foot-5 Temple has played in 41 games with Houston, Sacramento, San Antonio, Milwaukee and Charlotte. He had been playing for Erie in the NBA Development League before joining the Bobcats.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Utah Jazz: Mehmet Okur's season over - by Eurobasket News
The Utah Jazz still don't have a timetable for Mehmet Okur's (6'11''-C/F-79) predicted return to action.

But after Wednesday's 119-104 win over Minnesota, they announced a time frame in which the injury-plagued center won't come back.

'We're going to shut Mehmet Okur down for the rest of the year,' Jazz general manager Kevin O'Connor said. 'We've tried everything. He's tried everything. He's disappointed and discouraged that he couldn't be back because he wants to help the team.'

During his impromptu postgame press conference, O'Connor revealed that Okur's difficulties with his strained lower back have caused his surgically repaired left Achilles tendon to become sore and lose strength because of an inability to run.

As such, the team's physician, Dr. Lyle Mason, and back rehabilitation specialist, Dr. Graham Hill, have determined it best for Okur to sit out for at least the next month without making an effort to return to action.

Getting his Achilles and back all the way healed up again is their top priority.

'It's been a catch-22 all the way around with it,' O'Connor said. 'We're at the point now where we're going to go back to treating it as an injury and rehab it.'

O'Connor said that Okur is expected to be back to full health by the beginning of the 2011-12 season, but he added that the 6-foot-11 center has not been ruled out of possible postseason play should the Jazz make the playoffs next month.

'It's just not working right now,' O'Connor said. 'He needs time down to rehab it.'

After an eight-month Achilles rehab - necessary after he ruptured the tendon in Game 1 of the playoffs last April - Okur returned to play on Dec. 17.

But his comeback was short-lived as he sprained his right ankle after two games. That kept him out another two games, before he restrained his lower back and sat for six straight.

Nine games into his return from that back injury, it seized up on him again and Okur has been inactive since Jan. 28.

In all, Okur only played 13 times this year after a relatively healthy first eight seasons in which he appeared in 92 percent of his games.

Okur was not made available for comment about this latest decision.

When asked, O'Connor said the Jazz and Okur didn't rush him back into action prematurely following previous injuries this season.

'No,' O'Connor said. 'Each step we took we made sure that it wasn't painful the next day... and it just got to the point where he can't get it done right now physically he's out.'

Okur was discouraged after shootaround in Minnesota last Friday when he said his back tightened up on him again, forcing him to back off of his rehab.

O'Connor said the Jazz will wait to announce whether or not in light of Okur's injury situation the team will sign rookie center Marcus Cousin to another 10-day contract. That decision must be made by the end of this week.

Courtesy of www.desertnews.com

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28.1
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.28.1 
 2. Stoudemire, New Y.26.2 
 3. James, Miami Heat26.0 
 4. Wade, Miami Heat25.5 
 5. Anthony, Denver N.25.2 
 6. Bryant, LA Lakers24.8 
 7. Ellis, Golde S.24.8 
 8. Rose, Chicago B.24.6 
 9. Gordon, LA Clippers23.7 
 10. Nowitzki, Dallas M.23.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.7
 1. Love, Minnesota T.15.7 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.14.2 
 3. Randolph, Memph.12.6 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.12.2 
 5. Noah, Chicago B.11.6 
 6. Bogut, Milwauke.11.4 
 7. Camby, Portland TB10.7 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers10.2 
 9. Humphries, New J.10.1 
 10. Horford, Atlanta H.9.7 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Rondo, Boston C.11.7 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.3 
 3. Williams, Utah Jazz9.7 
 4. Paul, N.Orleans H.9.7 
 5. Calderon, Toron.9.1 
 6. Felton, New Y.9.0 
 7. Wall, Washington W.8.7 
 8. Kidd, Dallas M.8.4 
 9. Westbrook, Oklah..8.4 
 10. Rose, Chicago B.7.8 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.5 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.2.3 
 3. Ellis, Golde S.2.2 
 4. Felton, New Y.1.8 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..1.8 
 6. Evans, Sacramen.1.7 
 7. Conley, Memphis G.1.7 
 8. Gay, Memphis G.1.7 
 9. Kidd, Dallas M.1.7 
 10. Allen, Memphis G.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Bogut, Milwauke.2.6 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.2.4 
 3. McGee, Washingt.2.4 
 4. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.3 
 5. Milicic, Minnesota T.2.2 
 6. Stoudemire, New Y.2.0 
 7. Jefferson, Utah J.2.0 
 8. Okafor, N.Orlean.1.9 
 9. Bynum, LA Lakers1.9 
 10. Duncan, San A.1.9 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 48-18 
 2. New York K. 35-32 
 3. Philadelph.76 35-33 
 4. New Jersey N. 22-44 
 5. Toronto R. 18-49 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 49-18 
 2. Indiana P. 29-39 
 3. Milwaukee B. 26-41 
 4. Detroit P. 24-44 
 5. Cleveland C. 13-54 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 46-22 
 2. Orlando M. 43-26 
 3. Atlanta H. 39-29 
 4. Charlotte B. 28-39 
 5. Washington W. 16-50 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 44-23 
 2. Denver N. 41-27 
 3. Portland TB 39-29 
 4. Utah Jazz 36-33 
 5. Minnesota T. 17-52 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 48-20 
 2. Phoenix Suns 33-33 
 3. Golde State W. 30-38 
 4. LA Clippers 26-43 
 5. Sacramento K. 16-50 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 54-13 
 2. Dallas M. 48-20 
 3. N.Orleans H. 40-30 
 4. Memphis G. 37-32 
 5. Houston R. 35-34 


Thursday: Blazers, Bulls and Knicks celebrate - by Eurobasket News
Portland TB - Cleveland C. 111-70
LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-C-85, college: Texas) had 20 points and 11 rebounds before heading to the sideline late in the third quarter, and the Portland Trail Blazers routed the Cleveland Cavaliers 111-70 on Thursday night. Portland led by as many as 44 points while easily surpassing its largest margin of victory this season. Gerald Wallace (6'7''-F-82, college: Alabama) added 17 points for the Blazers, who had 29 assists compared to Cleveland's total of six. Cleveland, with the league's worst record at 13-54, made just 21 shots from the floor in shooting 35.6 percent. Ramon Sessions had 14 points. As bad as it was for the Cavaliers, it still wasn't their worst loss of the season. Cleveland fell 112-57 at the Los Angeles Lakers in January in the worst loss in the NBA since Feb. 27, 1998, when the Indiana Pacers beat the Trail Blazers 124-59. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

New Jersey N. - Chicago B. 73-84
Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) scored 21 points and the Chicago Bulls extended their longest winning streak in six years to eight games with an 84-73 victory over the New Jersey Nets on Thursday night. Luol Deng (6'7''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) added 19 points for the Bulls (49-18), who took a half-game lead over idle Boston in the race for the best record in the Eastern Conference. Rookie Omer Asik added 11 points and a career-high 16 rebounds. The Nets rallied in the fourth quarter but Kyle Korver had seven of his 12 in the final period, helping the Bulls hold on. Brook Lopez scored 22 points for New Jersey, which had won five straight for its longest winning streak in the last three years. Kris Humphries added 13 points and 16 rebounds, and Deron Williams had 11 assists, but Rose controlled him on defense, limiting him to five points on 1-of-12 shooting. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.vom

New York K. - Memphis G. 120-99
Toney Douglas (6'1''-G-86, college: Florida St.) tied a franchise record by making nine of the New York Knicks' franchise-record 20 3-pointers, scoring 29 points in a 120-99 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday night that snapped a three-game losing streak. Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) scored 28 points and Chauncey Billups added 18 for the Knicks, who were 20 of 36 (55.6 percent) from behind the arc and moved back ahead of Philadelphia into sole possession of sixth place in the Eastern Conference. Wearing green uniforms for St. Patrick's Day, the Knicks looked much better than they did during their slide. Douglas' sneakers were the wrong shade of green - sort of like the Hulk - but everything else was perfect. Mike Conley scored 16 points for the Grizzlies. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com



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


Greg Smith leaves Fresno State for NBA Draft - by Eurobasket News
Sophomore center Greg Smith (6'10''-C-91) will leave Fresno State to declare for the NBA.

Smith's uncle Stephen Shelley said that the move was 'official' and that he wouldn't test the waters.

Smith was a second-team All-Western Athletic Conference pick after finishing second on the Fresno State men's basketball team in scoring at 11.7 points per game and first in rebounds, at 8.1 per game.

The job status of head coach Steve Cleveland was a factor.

'I would have loved to have Cleveland as a coach. He taught me to be mature and gave me responsibilities,' Smith said. 'He helped me in many ways grow up as an 18-, 19-year-old freshman. I have to give a lot of credit to him.'

Smith said he's very confident he can play at the NBA level: 'I know what I'm capable of and I know I'm ready to play against that talent.'

Smith was the WAC Freshman of the Year in 2009-10.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

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


UAH takes South Region crown - by Eurobasket News
Alabama-Huntsville Athletics
Updated date: Last Updated - March 16, 2011 1:28 GMT
E-mail: Contact | Archive | RSS HUNTSVILLE, Ala. -- For the first time in school history, Alabama-Huntsville (29-4) is Elite Eight bound after winning the NCAA South Region tournament on Tuesday night behind an 88-81 win against Stillman (23-8) at Spragins Hall.

In front of a school-record 2,563 fans, the Chargers pulled away from a resilient Tiger squad in the final five minutes. The spark was a dunk from senior guard Tyler Hanback, who scored at 5:06 to put the Chargers ahead 73-67. Hanback then layed one off the glass at 3:31 to give the Chargers their largest lead of the night at 77-67.

I want to congratulate Stillman for a hard fought game,' said UAH head coach Lennie Acuff . 'They had an awesome run throughout the tournament. We all feel very humble and blessed to get this win tonight.

UAH managed to hit the free throws needed down the stretch as the Tigers tried to wrestle the lead away. Sophomore guard Xavier Baldwin (6'3''-G) nailed 6 of 6 in the final three minutes as part of a 15-point night. Baldwin sealed the win with a pair of attempts from the charity stripe with 11 seconds remaining to earn the Chargers' first trip to the Elite Eight in Springfield, Mass.

The Chargers placed five players in double figures led by sophomore guard Jaime Smith, who scored 21 on the night on 7 of 12 shooting. Smith was joined in double digits by sophomore forward Zane Campbell (6'8''-F) with 19 points, junior guard Josh Magette (6'1''-G) and Baldwin with 15 and Hanback with 11.

Coming into tonight with only four points in the tournament, the senior showed up at the right time to spark the Chargers.

I've struggled in the last few games,' Hanback said. 'It was great to get some easy buckets tonight to build confidence back up. I got in the gym and shot a lot this week. My teammates really got my confidence up.

On the same day he earned NABC All-District honors, Magette's efforts throughout the event earned the veteran NCAA South Region Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors. He was joined on the all-tournament team by Smith and Campbell along with Stillman's LaJay Sears and Kevin Johnson.

Johnson was a force for the Tigers on Tuesday night as the big man posted 21 points on 9 of 10 shooting from the field.

The Chargers take the court in their first Elite Eight contest on Wednesday, March 23rd taking on Minnesota State at 1:30 p.m. in Springfield, Mass.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com



West Liberty rushes by Indiana - by Eurobasket News
W.Va. After spending the last four seasons putting together a 48-game home winning streak, West Libertys four senior starters werent about to let it come to an end in their final game on the home boards.

Coach Jim Crutchfields unbeaten and No. 1-ranked Hilltoppers overcame their first halftime deficit of the season to beat No. 21 Indiana (Pa.) 89-86 in a thrilling NCAA Division II Atlantic Region championship game before an overflow crowd at the ASRC.

Its just been so much fun playing together we dont want to leave, said Corey Pelle (5'11''-G), who added the title of Regional Tournament MVP to his WVIAC and Atlantic Region Player of the Year honors from the regular season. Well do whatever it takes to win so we can keep on playing.

The Hilltoppers (32-0) will keep on playing at the Elite Eight NCAA Division II national championship tournament in Springfield, Mass. West Liberty will make its first-ever Elite Eight appearance on March 23 when the Hilltoppers take on unranked Anderson (21-11), which notched a 75-73 overtime upset of No. 3-ranked Augusta State in Tuesdays nights Southeast Region final.

The road to Springfield was a rocky one for West Liberty as IUP (26-6), which had beaten the Hilltoppers in last years Atlantic Region final, was more than primed for the rematch.

Neither team led by more than six points in a see-saw first half which ended with a cold-shooting West Liberty team on the short end of a 38-37 score.

The hole could have been considerably deeper had Chris Morrow (6'6''-F), a 6-7 sophomore, not come off the bench with 13 much-needed points for the Black and Gold.

The Hilltoppers used one of their trademark scoring bursts to gain the upper hand early in the second half.

Jordan Fortneys curl to the hoop with 17:52 on the clock not only put West Liberty ahead to stay at 41-40, it sparked a run of 15 unanswered points in just over four minutes.

The highlight of West Libertys run came when Pelle sailed down the lane and soared into the air for an apparent layup attempt only to whip a last-second baseball pass out to fellow senior John Wolosinczuk for a 3-pointer which forced IUP into a timeout, trailing 49-40 with 15:56 on the clock.

Coming out of the timeout, the Hilltoppers forced a Crimson Hawks turnover on the in-bounds pass. Pelle quickly stepped into a deep 3-pointer and the crowd erupted in celebration of the games first double-digit lead, 52-40, with 15:44 to play.

The lead hit 16 points on two occasions, the last time coming at 11:13 when Pelle cashed in an in-bounds pass for a 66-50 advantage, but the Crimson Hawks wouldnt go away.

Webbs conventional three-point play with 5:17 remaining capped a 13-2 Indiana run and pulled the visitors within a bucket at 75-73.

That was as close as they would get as West Liberty scored 8 of the games next 10 points to take an 83-75 lead into the final 3 minutes.

Indianas Scooter Renkin drained a pair of 3-pointers in the final 30 seconds, cutting the lead to 89-86, and the Crimson Hawks got one last chance with 11 seconds remaining only to see two potential tying 3-point attempts fail to drop.

Pelle finished with 23 points, seven rebounds and four assists to lead the winners while Morrow turned in 20 points including a 3 of 4 showing from behind the 3-point arc for his nights work. Wolosinczuk who was named to the all-tournament team added 13 points and nine rebounds while Falk and Fortney chipped in with 12 and 11 points, respectively.

Webb had a double-double with 23 points and 16 rebounds to lead IUP while Sanders hit four 3-pointers and finished with 17 points.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com



*****************************************************
  NCAA3   


Tommies are all about teamwork - by Eurobasket News
Tyler Nicolai (5'10''-G-89) is the leading scorer for St. Thomas, but he isnt worried about pouring in a ton of points night in and night out.

Teamwork is what the Tommies are all about and its why they are in the NCAA Division III semifinals for the first time since 1994. They will square off against Middlebury at 8 p.m. ET Friday night at the Salem Civic Center in Virginia.

Being unselfish with the ball is a huge part of our teams success, Nicolai said. Any of our starters could be the high scorer in a game and we have even had guys coming off the bench lead us in scoring a couple of times. We have so many unselfish players who only really care about winning.

Nicolai isn't kidding. St. Thomas loves sharing the ball. Its why the team has tallied 514 assists on the season, with eight players dishing out at least 20 on the season. Nicolai has 99 and is averaging 14.6 points per outing.

Senior guard Alex Healy (6'4''-G-88) leads the team in assists with 102 while senior guard Teddy Archer (6'3''-G) has racked up 94 assists. Junior center Tommy Hannon (6'8''-F-90) has 57 assists.

Healy is averaging 12.9 points per game while Hannon is dropping in 12.2 ppg. The Tommies are putting up 73.2 points per outing and giving up 64.2. They are shooting 49.6 percent as a team and average only 11.2 turnovers per game.

In recent seasons, we have shot about 50 percent from the field and have averaged only about 10 turnovers, so ball movement and balance are important elements of our game, St. Thomas head coach Steve Fritz said. You dont get to this point of the postseason without having people buy into what you are doing, offensively and defensively. With a veteran team like ours, where we have five seniors contributing in key roles, they bring a sense of urgency at this time of the season.

The eighth-ranked Tommies are coming off of a dominating 72-56 win against Augustana, marking the second consecutive game they have beaten a top 10 team and it was also their third win over a conference champion in the tournament.

St. Thomas took control early, racing out to a 20-8 advantage, and it shot 53 percent from the floor while forcing 19 turnovers. The Tommies rang up 15 assists in the win.

We like to apply pressure on defense by having several different weapons on the court, Fritz said. We have some athletic players who can shoot from the outside or drive to the basket. If teams try to help on defense, we hope to find the open man.

The Tommies played one of their best games of the season last Saturday in a sectional final win over the Vikings. The victory came on the heels of a stunning 66-64 win against defending national champion Wisconsin-Stevens Point in the Round of 16. Nicolai made a layup with three seconds remaining to seal the deal.

We never let them into the game, Fritz said. We know we beat two pretty good teams in Point and Augustana over two days, so our confidence is high. But all four teams here are playing with confidence because they all came through good regionals.

Nicolai said it was a thrill to knock off the defending national champion along the tourney trail, although that doesnt mean the Tommies can ease up on the gas pedal as they head to Virginia as the only team west of Chicago to make the Final Four.

Its going to take efforts like our last two games to win in Salem, Nicolai said. We need to get off to a good start on Friday and keep attacking the whole game. Our team is built on aggressive defense and taking teams out of their comfort zone, which will be essential to winning this weekend.

The Tommies have a 28-3 record and the victory total is the second highest in school history. St. Thomas is on a 10-game win streak and it is determined to hang its hat on good teamwork and great defense to chase down a championship.

But there is also a hint of motivation of that stems from the disappointment of last seasons tournament run. The Tommies were ranked No. 3 in the nation heading into the postseason and was stunned in a 73-71 loss to Anderson in the opening round.

I wouldnt necessarily say its something I think about a lot for motivation, but I guess it may be somewhere in the back of my mind, Nicolai said. A lot of people believed we were going be a disappointment in the tournament this year, and I think that has motivated us more than anything else.'
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com

Wooster eyes first national title - by Eurobasket News
As the College of Wooster attempted to pick up the pieces from a 75-68 loss to Guilford in the second round of the NCAA Division III tournament last season, there were lessons to be learned underneath the rubble.

Perhaps the toughest lesson was that the Fighting Scots discovered the importance of playing great defense. Granted, Guilford shot less than 40 percent from the field in the win, but if you give up more points than you score, winning is impossible.

I think our guys learned what it was going to win at this level, Wooster head coach Steve Moore said. We had a lot of guys gain experience this year and they all learned what playing defense at the college level is all about.

The lessons have served the Fighting Scots well. Ranked fifth in the nation and the proud owners of a 30-2 record, they are back in the DIII national semifinals for the first time since 2007. It is the programs third trip in nine seasons and Moore is pleased with the way his team has performed on the road to Salem, Va.

The Scots will continue their journey Friday night when they battle Williams at 6 p.m. ET at the Salem Civic Center. Wooster punched its ticket to Salem with a 76-66 home win against top-ranked Whitworth in a sectional final.

We had a real good win on Saturday, Moore said. Our guys went into that game with the right frame of mind and they are playing with a lot of confidence right now.

Its not a surprise. The Fighting Scots clamped down on defense against the top-ranked and explosive Pirates, limiting them to 40.4 percent shooting from the field. That shooting clip was nearly 10 percent below their season average of 49.5 percent.

The stellar defensive effort helped the Fighting Scots overcome three eight-point deficits in the first half en route to the win. An 11-2 run in the second half helped catapult Wooster to the win.

We were very solid on defense and played extremely hard, Moore said. We also communicated well. It was a great defensive effort against a very good basketball team.

Several players have helped orchestrate the defensive success. Senior guard Nathan Balch has racked up 32 steals while senior forward/center Bryan Wickliffe has tallied 25 steals.

Junior forward Justin Hallowell has blocked 23 shots and senior guard Ian Franks has come up with 24 steals to help anchor the defense of a team that is giving up 62.6 points per outing.

Our guys play with a lot of effort on defense, Moore said. There have been stretches in games this season where we have not executed well on offense, but our defense has stepped up.

Great defense has helped set the stage for a strong offensive showing this season as well.

Wooster is averaging 76.8 points per outing and shooting 47.5 percent from the field. Franks is the leading scorer, torching opponents for 18 ppg and draining 33 treys.

Balch is averaging 12.2 ppg and Hallowell is scoring 12 ppg. Wickliffe is clicking for 10 points per outing.

When you get defensive stops, it helps out the offense, Moore said. We have struggled to shoot at times, but our defense has kept us in games and we hang around until we can start hitting shots again.

Wooster was once the No. 1 team in the nation this year. It rattled off 20 consecutive wins before a crushing 69-68 loss to Wabash. The Fighting Scots are currently in the midst of a nine-game win streak and have allowed more than 70 points only twice during that stretch.

It has all added up to a season in which they have the most wins in school history and to an opportunity to deliver the programs first national championship.

Moore has won more than 500 games in his career at Wooster and has guided the Fighting Scots to 19 appearances in the NCAA tournament.

It is interesting to note that Wooster and Williams have a little history in the semifinals. Back in 2003, the Fighting Scots lost 74-72 to the Ephs on a tip-in at the buzzer in overtime.

Wooster could be in for another grueling battle against Williams on Friday night. Moore knows the key to success is for his team to continue to rely on the same type of blue-collar defensive effort that helped propel it to Salem.

They have an outstanding basketball team, Moore said. They have good post play and great outside shooters. We know we are going to have to be very solid on defense if we want to give ourselves a chance to win the game.
Courtesy of: Brian Lester, NCAA.com


*****************************************************
  NORWAY   


BLNO Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Antonio RUSSELL
  Kristiansand
  (183-G-84)
  Avg: 27
 1. Russell, Kristiansand27.0 
 2. Timus, Tromso25.1 
 3. Karlsen, Asker22.1 
 4. Bullock, Gimle21.7 
 5. Diomande, Ammerud21.4 
 6. Kombat, Froya21.2 
 7. January, Tromso20.3 
 8. Eskeland, Ulriken19.1 
 9. Oatis, Baerum18.6 
 10. Fivelstad, Ulriken18.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Peter BULLOCK
  Gimle
  (198-F/C-82)
  Avg: 13.3
 1. Bullock, Gimle13.3 
 2. Oatis, Baerum12.7 
 3. Mullenax, Ulriken11.5 
 4. Karlsen, Asker10.4 
 5. Fivelstad, Ulriken10.0 
 6. Christensen, Tro.9.9 
 7. Kombat, Froya8.7 
 8. January, Tromso8.4 
 9. Djerman, Gimle7.6 
 10. Hagen, Ammerud7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Edmunds GABRANS
  Froya
  (190-G-79)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Gabrans, Froya5.3 
 2. Mahnin, Asker4.6 
 3. Bullock, Gimle4.3 
 4. Issalhi, Tromso4.3 
 5. Russell, Kristiansand4.2 
 6. Eskeland, Ulriken4.2 
 7. Elgmork, Baerum3.7 
 8. Ouakkaha, Ulriken3.6 
 9. Mihaylov, Tromso3.4 
 10. Timus, Tromso3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Samuel DIOMANDE
  Ammerud
  (191-G-88)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Diomande, Ammerud2.7 
 2. Bullock, Gimle2.5 
 3. Ouakkaha, Ulriken2.1 
 4. Russell, Kristiansand2.0 
 5. Eskeland, Ulriken2.0 
 6. January, Tromso1.7 
 7. Timus, Tromso1.7 
 8. Gabrans, Froya1.7 
 9. Elgmork, Baerum1.6 
 10. Mahnin, Asker1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Donald OATIS
  Baerum
  (206-F/C-79)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Oatis, Baerum3.5 
 2. Beqiri, Kristiansand1.7 
 3. January, Tromso1.5 
 4. Christensen, Tro.1.2 
 5. Bullock, Gimle1.1 
 6. Karlsen, Asker0.9 
 7. Hamilton, Baerum0.9 
 8. Mullenax, Ulriken0.9 
 9. Nevjen, Baerum0.8 
 10. Hagen, Ammerud0.8 


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


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


*****************************************************
  PANAMA   


Apertura championship starts in Panama - by Eurobasket News
Panabasket Apertura tournament started in Panama. Oeste, Chepo and Rio Abajo celebrated victories in the opening round.
Oeste thrashed San Miguelito 85:66 at home court. Kadir Gonzalez (191-G-89) delivered 24 points to pace the winners. The Coyotes recorded a 47:31 halftime lead. Oeste continued their dominance in the second half and raced to the victory at the end. Oscar Campos produced 20 points in the win. Iliat Beach (90) answered with 23 points for San Miguelito.
Chepo escaped with a narrow 77:75 home win over Lefevre. Yiskol Henriquez hit a late jumper to seal the winning outcome for the hosts. Rolando McKay dropped 23 points, 7 assists and 3 boards for the winning team. Carlos Martinez (89) and Brian White had 11 points each in the victory. Israel Muatos tallied 30 points and 13 boards for Lefevre.
Rio Abajo toppled visiting Calidonia 81:75. Enrique jr Grenald (G-91) erupted for 28 points for the Caimanes. Emilio Maitin notched 19 points in the victory. Alvarez Nicanor (192-G/F-91) answered with 24 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mike WILLIAMS
  Rochester R.
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Williams, Vermo.20.9 
 2. Brown, Quebec K.20.7 
 3. Jones, Kentucky S.20.1 
 4. Anderson, Saint J.20.1 
 5. Egerson, Saint J.19.4 
 6. Dollard, Halifax R.17.8 
 7. Miles, Dayton A.17.5 
 8. Parran, Quebec K.17.1 
 9. Allen, Vermont FH16.7 
 10. Rice, Vermont FH15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Eric CROOKSHANK
  Halifax R.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Crookshank, Halif.11.1 
 2. Williams, Vermo.10.3 
 3. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC9.1 
 4. Dollard, Halifax R.8.3 
 5. Jones, Kentucky S.8.3 
 6. Williams, Rocheste.8.0 
 7. Walton, Rocheste.7.9 
 8. DeMasi, Saint J.7.8 
 9. Harris, Kentucky S.7.4 
 10. Ocitti, Saint J.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Dwuan RICE
  Saint John M.R.
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Rice, Vermont FH7.6 
 2. Parran, Quebec K.7.2 
 3. Rice, Saint J.6.3 
 4. Anderson, Saint J.5.3 
 5. Brown, Halifax R.4.9 
 6. Bowden, Lawton F.4.1 
 7. Crouch, Rocheste.4.0 
 8. Egerson, Saint J.3.9 
 9. Acker, Quebec K.3.7 
 10. Fountain, Lawton F.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Dwuan RICE
  Saint John M.R.
  (180-G-)
  Avg: 3
 1. Rice, Vermont FH3.0 
 2. Parran, Quebec K.2.7 
 3. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC2.3 
 4. Austin, Vermont FH2.0 
 5. Brown, Quebec K.2.0 
 6. Anderson, Saint J.1.9 
 7. Miles, Dayton A.1.8 
 8. Bowden, Lawton F.1.5 
 9. Monroe, Rocheste.1.5 
 10. Martin, Saint J.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Elvin MIMS
  Lawton Ft.SC
  (196-G/F-79)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC1.8 
 2. Carter, Rocheste.1.7 
 3. Crookshank, Halif.1.2 
 4. Ocitti, Saint J.1.1 
 5. George, Dayton A.1.1 
 6. Daniels, Lawton F.1.0 
 7. DeMasi, Saint J.0.9 
 8. Williams, Vermo.0.9 
 9. Harris, Kentucky S.0.8 
 10. Pierre, Quebec K.0.8 


Standings
PBL Standings
 1. Lawton Ft.SC 14-2 
 2. Quebec K. 10-6 
 3. Rochester R. 10-7 
 4. Halifax R. 9-7 
 5. Saint John M.R. 8-7 
 6. Kentucky S. 5-13 
 7. Dayton A. 3-14 
 8. Vermont FH 2-5 


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


Branko Cuic's triple-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
Montenegrin guard Branko Cuic (196-G-78) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked U.Mobitel.CN, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
The 32-year old player recorded a triple-double of 17 points and added11 rebounds and 13 assists, while his team outclassed Timisoara (#10, 12-14) with 45-point margin 97-52. U.Mobitel.CN is placed at 2nd position in Romanian Div.B. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. U.Mobitel.CN will need more victories to improve their 20-6 record. Cuic has many years of experience at U.Mobitel.CN, through which he has constantly improved. Branko Cuic has solid league stats. He is in league's top in assists (5th best: 5.3apg) and averages impressive 54.5% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American Jermont Horton (198-G-83) of Craiova. Horton had a very good evening with a double-double of 31 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Craiova lost that game 69-92 to the higher-ranked Gaz Metan (#3, 20-6). Craiova is still in a red zone at 13th spot in the standings. 21 lost games are too many comparing to just five victories Craiova managed to get this year. Horton is one of the most experienced players at Craiova and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.1ppg (#9). He also registered 6.0 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Donte Gennie (185-G-83, agency: Basket Law/NM Services) of Pitesti (#8). Gennie got into 30-points club by scoring 33 points in the last round. He went also for six assists. He was a key player of Pitesti, leading his team to a 78-68 win against the lower-ranked CSM Bucuresti (#12, 11-14). Pitesti needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 11 lost games. Gennie has a great season in Romania. After 25 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 5.0apg (8th best). He also has 2.4spg and FGP: 57.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Yamene Coleman (206-C-86) of Miercurea - 21 points and 13 rebounds
5. Kyndall Dykes (191-F-87) of U.Mobitel.CN - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Theron Smith (203-F-80) of Steaua Turabo - 16 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Zoran Krstanovic (205-C-82) of U.Mobitel.CN - 22 points and 11 rebounds
8. Clevin Hannah (180-G-87) of Miercurea - 18 points and 7 assists
9. Adrian Blidaru (182-G-85) of Ploiesti - 25 points and 6 assists
10. Nemanja Maric (196-G-83) of Oradea - 21 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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


Tywain McKee leaves Minsk-2006 and joins Triumph - by Eurobasket News
Tywain McKee (188-G-86, college: Coppin St.) leaves Minsk-2006 for Triumph and will finish the season with the Russian team. The American player had a great season in Belarus but after VTB League end season moved to Russia.
Before coming to Belarus Tywain McKee played for Wollongong Hawks (Australia-NBL), and was the third top-scorer in the League averaging 17.9ppg, 4.8rpg, Assists-3 (4.5apg), 1.2spg, FGP: 49.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 65.4%
In his last game for Minsk-2006 in VTB League Russian CSKA Moscow faced 4th ranked Belarusian Minsk-2006. Host CSKA Moscow (9-1) defeated guests from Minsk (4-6) 82-72. The game was mostly controlled by CSKA Moscow. Minsk-2006 was better in third quarter 33-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American guard Tywain McKee replied with 22 points and Vincentian center Shawn King (208-82, college: ORU) added 14 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Minsk-2006.
In VTB League Tywain McKee averaged 14.4 points per game. He laso had 5.5 rebounds per game and 3.1 assists.



Standings - Superleague B
Superleague Standings
 1. Univ.Surgut 26-8 
 2. Saransk 23-7 
 3. Spartak-Primorie 21-9 
 4. Severstal 21-9 
 5. Ural Ekaterinb. 19-10 
 6. Revda 14-14 
 7. Metallurg-Univ. 13-19 
 8. Rjazan 12-18 
 9. Irkutsk 8-22 
 10. Lokomotiv 6-25 
 11. Zaretchny 4-26 


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


Branko Jereminov in Radnicki Kragujevac, Bunic in Metalac Valjevo - by Zoran Popovic
After good season for Tamis Petrohemija, Branko Jereminov (187-G-87) will continue career in Radnicki Kragujevac in Serbian Superleague. On 25 games for Tamis Petrohemija in Serbian league Jereminov average scored 13.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.6 steals. During the professional career Jereminov played for Hemofarm Vrsac, Zdravlje Leskovac, Metalac Valjevo, FMP Zeleznik, Borac Cacak and Tamis Petrohemija. Branko Jereminov was member of Serbia and Montenegro U16, U18 and U20 National team.
Dusko Bunic (207-C-89) joins Metalac Valjevo for competing in Serbian Superleague. Bunic played in Serbian league for KK Novi Sad Panonska banka and on 26 games average scored 16.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.5 steals. Before KK Novi Sad Panonska banka, where he spent last four seasons, Bunic played for KK Spartak Subotica. Dusko Bunic was member of Serbian U20 National team.


Lovcen adds Aleksandar Jevdjic - by Eurobasket News
Aleksandar Jevdjic (203-C-82, agency: BeoExcell) is a new player of Lovcen Cetinje. The Serbian SF/PF signed a deal for rest of the season. He arrives to Lovcen from Vojvodina Srbijagas, where he had 11.2 points and 4 rebounds for 26 league games. Last season Jevdjic also spent with Vojvodina. He appeared 24 times for them registering 9.3 ppg and 3.8 rpg.
Before Vojvodina, Aleksandar Jevdjic spent one season with Swisslions Takovo Vrsac. In 2007/08, he had 8.5 ppg and 1.1 rpg for 20 games in Slovenian league with Zlatorog Lasko. Jevdjic also played for Lasko in the past and he also has experience from Geoplin Slovan. Jevdjic is a product of Partizan youth selections and later he played for Borac Cacak and Sloga.
Lovcen finished the first stage in Montenegrin league on the second place with 14-4 score.

Beograd signs Milos Pavlovic - by Eurobasket News
Milos Pavlovic (210-F/C-84, agency: BeoExcell) is a new member of Beograd. The 26-year-old big guy signed a deal for rest of the season. Beograd finished first stage in Serbian league as No.2 with 19-7 record and booked a spot for the Superleague.
Milos Pavlovic spent last season in Ukraine and Romania. He started it with Kryvbasbasket-Lux Kryvyi Rih averaging 7 points and 3.2 rebounds for 10 Superleague games. In January he moved to Arges Pitesti and that same month signed a deal with Gaz Metan Medias. With them Pavlovic had 9 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 22 games in Romanian league. In the past, Milos Pavlovic was a member of Paleo Faliro Pireus and Makedonikos. He also played for Serbian teams Beovuk 72, Borac Cacak, FMP and Radnicki Beograd.

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  SOUTH KOREA   


Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Sonic Boom KT 40-13 
 2. Elephants 38-15 
 3. KCC Egis 33-20 
 4. Dongbu Promy 30-22 
 5. LG Sakers 26-26 
 6. Samsung Th. 25-27 
 7. SK Knights 20-33 
 8. Mobis Phoebus 19-33 
 9. Anyang KGC 16-36 
 10. Daegu Orions 15-37 


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


Standings - ACB
ACB Standings
 1. Regal Barca 22-4 
 2. Real Madrid 20-5 
 3. Valencia 16-9 
 4. Caja Laboral 16-10 
 5. Bizkaia Bilbao 15-10 
 6. Valladolid 15-10 
 7. Fuenlabrada 14-11 
 8. Gran Canaria 13-12 
 9. Unicaja 13-12 
 10. Cajasol 13-13 
 11. Estudiantes 13-13 
 12. DKV Joventut 12-13 
 13. CAI Zaragoza 11-14 
 14. Lagun Aro GBC 9-16 
 15. Manresa 8-17 
 16. Meridiano 7-18 
 17. Granada 5-20 
 18. Menorca 5-20 


Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Jaycee CARROLL
  Gran Canaria
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Carroll, Gran Canaria18.1 
 2. Navarro, Regal B.16.4 
 3. Martinez, Valencia15.2 
 4. English, DKV J.15.1 
 5. McDonald, DKV J.15.1 
 6. Baron, Lagun A.14.9 
 7. Caner-Medley, Estudi.14.0 
 8. Kurz, Granada13.9 
 9. Teletovic, Caja L.13.9 
 10. Davis, Cajasol13.0 
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.7.6 
 4. Barac, Caja Laboral6.9 
 5. Donaldson, Menorca6.8 
 6. Doellman, Meridiano6.4 
 7. Wallace, Gran Canaria6.4 
 8. Trias, DKV Joventut6.3 
 9. Freeland, Unicaja6.2 
 10. Miralles, Lagun A.6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja Laboral
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Huertas, Caja L.5.9 
 2. Cook, Valencia5.2 
 3. Valters, Fuenlabr.4.5 
 4. Rubio, Regal Barca4.5 
 5. Ciorciari, Menorca4.4 
 6. Uriz, Lagun A.4.0 
 7. Dumas, Valladolid3.8 
 8. Prigioni, Real Madrid3.8 
 9. Colom, Fuenlabrada3.8 
 10. Green, Gran Canaria3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Tariq KIRKSAY
  Cajasol
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Kirksay, Cajasol2.1 
 2. Calloway, Cajasol1.8 
 3. Cook, Valencia1.8 
 4. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.8 
 5. Robinson, DKV J.1.8 
 6. San Miguel, Manre.1.7 
 7. Davis, Cajasol1.7 
 8. Van Lacke, Valladolid1.6 
 9. Rubio, Regal Barca1.6 
 10. Victor, Menorca1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Bismack BIYOMBO
  Fuenlabrada
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 2
 1. Biyombo, Fuenlabr.2.0 
 2. Fischer, Real Madrid1.6 
 3. Vazquez, Regal B.1.5 
 4. Kurz, Granada1.3 
 5. Barnes, Valladolid1.3 
 6. Ayon, Fuenlabrada1.3 
 7. Majstorovic, Manre.1.2 
 8. Savane, Gran C.1.1 
 9. Batista, Fuenlabr.1.1 
 10. Andriuskevic., Meridi.1.1 


Alicante signs Ignacio De Miguel to a one-month deal - by Eurobasket News
Ignacio De Miguel (205-C-73) returned to Alicante after four and a half years. The experienced big guy signed a one-month deal with his former team.
Ignacio De Miguel spent last season with Real Madrid II. He appeared 27 times in LEB Silver averaging 7.8 points and 5 rebounds. De Miguel also appeared three times with Real Madrid top team in Euroleague. Before Real Madrid, De Miguel spent two years with Cajasol Seville. Their first season together was much better for the experienced Spaniard, who had 11.4 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 34 games in ACB. In 2006/07, De Miguel played for Unicaja Malaga. As mentioned above, Ignacio De Miguel already was a member of Alicante. It was from 2003 to 2005. In the past, De Miguel played for Olympiakos and Estudiantes.

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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


Joseph Makes All Conference Third Team - by Don Farrell
Junior Kris Joseph of Syracuse made the All Big East Third Team. Joseph whose older brother Maurice is a guard on the Trinidad national team averaged. 14.4 pts per game,5 reb and shot 37% ffrom the 3 point line .He will be part of the starting line up for Syracuse in the NCAA tournament.

ALL-BIG EAST THIRD TEAM
Chris Wright, Georgetown, G, Sr.
Tim Abromaitis, Notre Dame, F, Sr.
Jeremy Hazell, Seton Hall, G, Sr.
Kris Joseph, Syracuse, F, Jr.
Corey Stokes, Villanova, G, Sr.

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


Utah Jazz: Mehmet Okur's season over - by Eurobasket News
The Utah Jazz still don't have a timetable for Mehmet Okur's (6'11''-C/F-79) predicted return to action.

But after Wednesday's 119-104 win over Minnesota, they announced a time frame in which the injury-plagued center won't come back.

'We're going to shut Mehmet Okur down for the rest of the year,' Jazz general manager Kevin O'Connor said. 'We've tried everything. He's tried everything. He's disappointed and discouraged that he couldn't be back because he wants to help the team.'

During his impromptu postgame press conference, O'Connor revealed that Okur's difficulties with his strained lower back have caused his surgically repaired left Achilles tendon to become sore and lose strength because of an inability to run.

As such, the team's physician, Dr. Lyle Mason, and back rehabilitation specialist, Dr. Graham Hill, have determined it best for Okur to sit out for at least the next month without making an effort to return to action.

Getting his Achilles and back all the way healed up again is their top priority.

'It's been a catch-22 all the way around with it,' O'Connor said. 'We're at the point now where we're going to go back to treating it as an injury and rehab it.'

O'Connor said that Okur is expected to be back to full health by the beginning of the 2011-12 season, but he added that the 6-foot-11 center has not been ruled out of possible postseason play should the Jazz make the playoffs next month.

'It's just not working right now,' O'Connor said. 'He needs time down to rehab it.'

After an eight-month Achilles rehab - necessary after he ruptured the tendon in Game 1 of the playoffs last April - Okur returned to play on Dec. 17.

But his comeback was short-lived as he sprained his right ankle after two games. That kept him out another two games, before he restrained his lower back and sat for six straight.

Nine games into his return from that back injury, it seized up on him again and Okur has been inactive since Jan. 28.

In all, Okur only played 13 times this year after a relatively healthy first eight seasons in which he appeared in 92 percent of his games.

Okur was not made available for comment about this latest decision.

When asked, O'Connor said the Jazz and Okur didn't rush him back into action prematurely following previous injuries this season.

'No,' O'Connor said. 'Each step we took we made sure that it wasn't painful the next day... and it just got to the point where he can't get it done right now physically he's out.'

Okur was discouraged after shootaround in Minnesota last Friday when he said his back tightened up on him again, forcing him to back off of his rehab.

O'Connor said the Jazz will wait to announce whether or not in light of Okur's injury situation the team will sign rookie center Marcus Cousin to another 10-day contract. That decision must be made by the end of this week.

Courtesy of www.desertnews.com

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  UBA   


Will De La Cruz, Warren Beaulah named Players of Month for March - by UBA media
By David Walls

The Southern Generals Will De La Cruz (6'2''-G-80, college: Atlanta Christian) and the GIE Morrow Disciples Warren Beaulah (6'5''-G/F-84, college: Brewton Parker) today were named the UBA Players of the Month, respectively, for games played through Feb./ March.

De La Cruz has led the Generals to a UBA best 27-5 going 5-0 this month. His posted his best game against the Disciples last week with 29 points and 7 assist in a 90-85 win. De La Cruz is averaged 25.8ppg, 3.5rpg and 6.8steals for the month.

Beaulah led all UBA players in scoring (30.8 ppg) in the month of March. He also led the Disciples to a 3-1 record this month. His best game coming against the Georgia Lions with 34 points and 6 assist. Beaulah has also received an All-Star bid from the owners, so he will attend the 2011 UBA All-Star game.



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


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.9
 1. Burtt, Dnipro22.9 
 2. Burns, Fe.17.8 
 3. Washington, BC Od.16.9 
 4. Flores, BC Donetsk16.8 
 5. Curry, Azovmash16.7 
 6. Williams, Halychyna15.1 
 7. Wiggins, Halychyna14.9 
 8. Millage, Khimik14.8 
 9. Bakic, Kryvbasb.14.5 
 10. Love, Mykolaiv14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael FRASER
  DniproAzot
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Fraser, DniproAzot10.8 
 2. Wiggins, Halychyna9.5 
 3. Burns, Fe.8.3 
 4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv7.6 
 5. Austin, Dnipro7.3 
 6. Morrison, Halyc.7.2 
 7. Hunter, Fe.6.9 
 8. Owens, Azovmash6.8 
 9. Chappell, Hoverla6.6 
 10. Greene, Mykolaiv6.3 
Assists Per Game
 Todd ABERNETHY
  Halychyna
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5
 1. Abernethy, Halyc.5.0 
 2. Vasiljevic, BC Do.5.0 
 3. Zimmerman, Hoverla4.9 
 4. Sparks, BC Odessa4.8 
 5. Burtt, Dnipro4.8 
 6. Funn, Halychyna4.7 
 7. Millage, Khimik4.6 
 8. Brewer, BC Odessa4.5 
 9. Sirsnins, DniproAzot4.1 
 10. Slipenchuk, Kryvba.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Millage, Khimik2.4 
 2. House, Azovmash1.9 
 3. Sparks, BC Odessa1.9 
 4. Sirutavicius, Dnipro.1.6 
 5. Mazutis, Mykolaiv1.6 
 6. Swanson, Hoverla1.5 
 7. Zimmerman, Hoverla1.5 
 8. Burns, Fe.1.5 
 9. Greene, Mykolaiv1.5 
 10. Love, Mykolaiv1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Hughes, Mykolaiv2.3 
 2. Kravtsov, BC Do.2.1 
 3. Hunter, Fe.1.6 
 4. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.1.4 
 5. Morrison, Halyc.1.4 
 6. Balashov, BC Odessa1.3 
 7. Turner, BC Odessa1.3 
 8. Agafonov, Budiv.1.3 
 9. Pettway, Dnipro1.3 
 10. Onufriyev, Mykolaiv1.2 


Standings - Superleague
Superleague Standings
 1. Budivelnyk 30-10 
 2. BC Donetsk 29-10 
 3. Hoverla 25-15 
 4. Azovmash 24-15 
 5. Ferro-ZNTU 22-17 
 6. Mykolaiv 20-18 
 7. Dnipro 19-18 
 8. Kryvbasbasket 19-20 
 9. BC Odessa 16-24 
 10. DniproAzot 16-24 
 11. Halychyna 14-27 
 12. Khimik 12-28 
 13. BC Kyiv 9-29 


Superleague Round 41: BC Donetsk loses the game and top position - by Eurobasket News
There was a change at the Superleague leadership position after last games. Round 41 most important game was a defeat of league's leader BC Donetsk (29-10). They were defeated by twelfth ranked Khimik (12-28) 70-64 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of BC Donetsk. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 39-31 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. American guard Curtis Millage (185-81, college: Arizona St.) stepped up and scored 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and Bosnian power forward Edin Bavcic (210-84, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds. American power forward J.K. Edwards (202-82, college: UNLV) responded with 8 points and 11 rebounds. BC Donetsk's coach Sasa Obradovic rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Khimik maintains twelfth place with 12-28 record. Newly promoted BC Donetsk dropped to the second position with ten games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Budivelnyk. BC Donetsk will play next round against strong Azovmash trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Khimik will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Dnipro in Dnepropetrovsk.
Important game to mention about took place in Mykolaiv. Seventh ranked Mykolaiv (20-18) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th placed Hoverla (25-15) 60-58 on Tuesday evening. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Justin Love (188-78, college: St.Louis) nailed 19 points for the winning side and Brian Greene accounted for 12 points and 10 rebounds. Mykolaiv's coach Valentin Berestnev allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Center Eric Coleman (200-85, college: N.Iowa, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists for Hoverla in the defeat. Mykolaiv have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place. Hoverla at the other side dropped to the third position with 15 games lost. Mykolaiv will play against bottom-ranked BC Kyiv (#13) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hoverla will play against Ferro-ZNTU (#5) in Zaporozhye and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Superleague top team - Budivelnyk (30-10) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat ninth ranked BC Odessa (16-24) in Kyiv 96-89. The best player for the winners was Lamayne Wilson who scored 23 points and 7 rebounds. Ejike Ugboaja produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Budivelnyk have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 30-10 record. BC Odessa lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 24 games lost. They share it with DniproAzot. Budivelnyk will meet at home Mykolaiv (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. BC Odessa will play against BC Kyiv and hope to secure a win.
Superleague top team - Budivelnyk (30-10) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Dnipro (19-18) in Kyiv 72-52. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Dnipro. Denis Ikovlev orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Budivelnyk have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 30-10 record. Dnipro at the other side dropped to the seventh position with 18 games lost. Budivelnyk's next round opponent will be Mykolaiv (#6) in Mykolaiv which should be theoretically another easy game. Dnipro will play on the road against Khimik in Yuzhny.
The game in Krivoy Rog was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Hoverla (25-15) played at the court of 8th ranked Kryvbasbasket (19-20). Hoverla defeated Kryvbasbasket 79-67 on Friday. Eric Coleman stepped up and scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Hoverla's coach Evgeni Murzin used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. Hoverla moved-up to third place. Loser Kryvbasbasket keeps the eighth position with 20 games lost. Hoverla will face Ferro-ZNTU (#5) in Zaporozhye in the next round. Kryvbasbasket will play at home against Halychyna in Lviv.

In the last two games of round 41 Halychyna lost to Ferro-ZNTU on the opponent's court 87-97. DniproAzot managed to outperform Khimik in a home game 81-66.


Ferro-ZNTU - Halychyna 97-87

Very expected game in Zaporozhye where 11th ranked Halychyna (14-27) was defeated by fifth ranked Ferro-ZNTU (22-17) 97-87 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Ferro-ZNTU. Halychyna was better in fourth quarter 21-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ferro-ZNTU forced 21 Halychyna turnovers. They shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 54.5 percentage. Halychyna was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. Center R.T. Guinn (208-81, college: Baylor) stepped up and scored 19 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and forward Christian Burns (203-85, college: Philadelphia, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) chipped in 20 points. Forward Alan Wiggins (206-84, college: USF) responded with 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and center Harold Jamison (204-76, college: Clemson) scored 17 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Halychyna's coach Andrei Podkovyrov let to play eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Ferro-ZNTU have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 22-17 record. Loser Halychyna keeps the eleventh position with 27 games lost. Ferro-ZNTU will face higher ranked Hoverla (#3) in Frankivsk in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Halychyna will play on the road against Kryvbasbasket (#8) in Krivoy Rog.
Top scorers:
Halychyna: H.Jamison 17+3reb+3ast, A.Wiggins 17+8reb+4ast, T.Abernethy 13+6reb+1ast, N.Williams 13+2reb+2ast, Y.Zubrytskyi 9+1ast, M.Sroka 5+2ast
Ferro-ZNTU: C.Burns 20+4reb+1ast, K.Mays 19+1reb+1ast, R.Guinn 19+9reb, H.Kandrusevich 15+5reb+3ast, R.Harris 9+3ast, A.Rybalko 8+6ast
gschID: 123240


DniproAzot - Khimik 81-66

Rather predictable result in Dniprodzerzhynsk where tenth ranked DniproAzot (16-24) defeated 12th ranked Khimik (12-28) 81-66 on Friday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 43-25 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. DniproAzot made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. Khimik was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Canadian power forward Michael Fraser (203-84, college: Oklahoma Baptist, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 20 rebounds (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) for the winners and Lithuanian forward Gytis Sirutavicius (195-83) chipped in 10 points and 5 rebounds. Four DniproAzot players scored in double figures. DniproAzot's coach Igor Chigrinov used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. Center Stanislav Zavadsky (213-87) responded with 14 points and 9 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and the former international guard Sergei Popov (193-88) scored 14 points. DniproAzot moved-up to ninth place, which they share with BC Odessa. Loser Khimik keeps the twelfth position with 28 games lost. DniproAzot will have a break next round. Khimik will play at home against Dnipro (#7) in Dnepropetrovsk.
Top scorers:
Khimik: S.Zavadsky 14+9reb, S.Popov 14+4reb, A.McLain 13+3reb, A.Kolchenko 9+4reb+1ast, T.Bizaca 8+1reb+1ast, L.Williams 4+6reb+6ast
DniproAzot: M.Fraser 19+20reb, M.Balashov 14+3ast, J.Dukes 11+4reb+1ast, G.Sirutavicius 10+5reb+3ast, B.Merriex 8+1reb, L.Karim 6+2reb
gschID: 123241


Kryvbasbasket - Hoverla 67-79

The game in Krivoy Rog was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Hoverla (25-15) played at the court of 8th ranked Kryvbasbasket (19-20). Hoverla defeated Kryvbasbasket 79-67 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Hoverla. Kryvbasbasket was better in third quarter 21-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Kryvbasbasket 36-25 including 27 on the defensive glass. Hoverla looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. American center Eric Coleman (200-85, college: N.Iowa, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) stepped up and scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners and his fellow American import guard Jeremy Chappell (191-87, college: Robert Morris, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds. Hoverla's coach Evgeni Murzin used a ten-player rotation saving starting five for next games. The former international forward Dmitry Korablev (198-77) responded with 20 points and 6 rebounds and guard Artem Slipenchuk (192-89, agency: Interperformances) scored 16 points and 8 assists. Hoverla moved-up to third place. Loser Kryvbasbasket keeps the eighth position with 20 games lost. Hoverla will face Ferro-ZNTU (#5) in Zaporozhye in the next round. Kryvbasbasket will play at home against Halychyna in Lviv.
Top scorers:
Kryvbasbasket: D.Korablev 20+6reb+3ast, A.Slipenchuk 16+2reb+8ast, V.Kondratovets 11+2reb+1ast, V.Malchevskiy 7+1reb+1ast, E.Annenkov 5+4reb+4ast, I.Zaitsev 5+6reb+3ast
Hoverla: E.Coleman 17+7reb+4ast, I.Kryvych 16+1reb+1ast, J.Chappell 15+9reb+3ast, D.Zimmerman 8+3reb+6ast, V.Gerasimchuk 7+2reb+1ast, P.Ulyanko 7+3reb+2ast
gschID: 123242


Mykolaiv - Hoverla 60-58

Important game to mention about took place in Mykolaiv. Seventh ranked Mykolaiv (20-18) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 4th placed Hoverla (25-15) 60-58 on Tuesday evening. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 12-6. But Hoverla won second period 12-7. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Mykolaiv dominated on the defensive end, holding Hoverla to just 6 points in first quarter. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Justin Love (188-78, college: St.Louis) nailed 19 points for the winning side and swingman Brian Greene (196-83, college: Florida A&M) accounted for 12 points and 10 rebounds. Mykolaiv's coach Valentin Berestnev allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Center Eric Coleman (200-85, college: N.Iowa, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) came up with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Jeremy Chappell (191-87, college: Robert Morris, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) added 9 points and 18 rebounds respectively for Hoverla in the defeat. Mykolaiv have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place. Hoverla at the other side dropped to the third position with 15 games lost. Mykolaiv will play against bottom-ranked BC Kyiv (#13) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Hoverla will play against Ferro-ZNTU (#5) in Zaporozhye and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hoverla: E.Coleman 14+11reb+4ast, I.Kryvych 9+3reb+1ast, J.Chappell 9+18reb+1ast, P.Ulyanko 7+3reb+1ast, D.Zimmerman 7+10reb+4ast, D.Swanson 7+1reb+4ast
Mykolaiv: J.Love 19+3reb+3ast, B.Greene 12+10reb+2ast, A.Butskyy 7+2reb, J.Umbrasko 6+3reb, J.Hughes 6+7reb, O.Onufriyev 4+8reb+3ast
gschID: 123238


Budivelnyk - BC Odessa 96-89

Superleague top team - Budivelnyk (30-10) added another victory to their record on Thursday. This time they beat ninth ranked BC Odessa (16-24) in Kyiv 96-89. The hosts trailed by 10 points after three quarters before their 31-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Budivelnyk made 23-of-30 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Lamayne Wilson (204-80, college: Troy) who scored 23 points and 7 rebounds. Naturalized Lithuanian center Michailis Anisimovas (214-84) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists. Five Budivelnyk players scored in double figures. Nigerian power forward Ejike Ugboaja (204-85) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds and American guard Andrew Washington (191-84, college: Delaware) added 20 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Budivelnyk have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 30-10 record. BC Odessa lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 24 games lost. They share it with DniproAzot. Budivelnyk will meet at home Mykolaiv (#6) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. BC Odessa will play against BC Kyiv and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
BC Odessa: A.Washington 20+4reb+3ast, E.Ugboaja 17+12reb, J.DeGroat 15, P.Sparks 8+1reb+4ast, G.Navickas 8+1reb+4ast, G.Buchanan 7+1reb+1ast
Budivelnyk: L.Wilson 23+7reb+1ast, M.Anisimovas 13+2reb+4ast, Z.Morley 12+3reb+1ast, W.Keys 11+3ast, V.Kobzisty 10+3reb, D.Spencer 10+7reb+1ast
gschID: 123239


Budivelnyk - Dnipro 72-52

Superleague top team - Budivelnyk (30-10) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Dnipro (19-18) in Kyiv 72-52. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Dnipro. The game without a history. Budivelnyk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Budivelnyk had a 34-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. Forward Denis Ikovlev (201-86, college: Nevada) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Naturalized Lithuanian center Michailis Anisimovas (214-84) contributed with 5 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. American guard Steve Burtt (185-84, college: Iona) answered with 17 points and international power forward Maksym Kornienko (205-87) added 8 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Dnipro. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Budivelnyk have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain first place with 30-10 record. Dnipro at the other side dropped to the seventh position with 18 games lost. Budivelnyk's next round opponent will be Mykolaiv (#6) in Mykolaiv which should be theoretically another easy game. Dnipro will play on the road against Khimik in Yuzhny.
Top scorers:
Dnipro: S.Burtt 17+3reb+2ast, M.Kornienko 8+9reb, D.Brown 6+3reb+1ast, I.Bilytske 5+1reb, M.Vilkhovetskyi 4+4reb+3ast, M.Austin 4+4reb
Budivelnyk: D.Ikovlev 19+6reb+2ast, Z.Morley 8+4reb+2ast, D.Lukashov 7+5reb+3ast, L.Wilson 7+4reb, D.Spencer 7+4reb+2ast, L.Stefanishin 7
gschID: 123236


Khimik - BC Donetsk 70-64

There was a change at the Superleague leadership position after last games. Round 41 most important game was a defeat of league's leader BC Donetsk (29-10). They were defeated by twelfth ranked Khimik (12-28) 70-64 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of BC Donetsk. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 39-31 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. American guard Curtis Millage (185-81, college: Arizona St.) stepped up and scored 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and Bosnian power forward Edin Bavcic (210-84, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds. American power forward J.K. Edwards (202-82, college: UNLV) responded with 8 points and 11 rebounds and Bosnian swingman Jasmin Hukic (204-79, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points. BC Donetsk's coach Sasa Obradovic rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Khimik maintains twelfth place with 12-28 record. Newly promoted BC Donetsk dropped to the second position with ten games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Budivelnyk. BC Donetsk will play next round against strong Azovmash trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Khimik will try to continue on its current victory against seventh ranked Dnipro in Dnepropetrovsk.
Top scorers:
BC Donetsk: J.Hukic 16+3reb+2ast, A.Owens 13+1reb+2ast, B.Cvetkovic 9+5reb, J.Edwards 8+11reb+3ast, D.Gliebov 8+8reb, V.Kravtsov 8+1reb
Khimik: C.Millage 26+5reb+4ast, E.Bavcic 11+6reb+2ast, A.McLain 10+3reb, A.Kolchenko 8+4reb, S.Zavadsky 6+2reb+3ast, L.Williams 4+2reb
gschID: 123237




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


BBL Weekend Preview - by Paul Nilsen

Head coach Rob Paternostro is hoping his Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders team can bounce back from their midweek defeat at Prestige Homes MK Lions and get their play-off challenge back on track but wont be taking anything for granted against Worthing Thunder tonight.

Despite their lowly position, the play-caller is expecting Thunder to provide a stiff challenge and to arrive full of confidence having picked up their third BBL Championship win of the season last weekend.

The times I have seen Worthing this season they have played well. Explained Paternostro.

I know their record doesnt necessarily indicate that, but I know from talking to a lot of people around the league that they have respect for how they play.

Adam Williams has had a very good year. Ive known him for a long time as we were team-mates in Birmingham during 2003-4 and I have been very impressed with the development of his game since.

Paternostro added, They have good size and can cause problems in the paint, it is important that we do not allow them to hurt us inside.

Things really are getting tense for all teams in the play-off race with 9 clubs realistically looking like they are competing for the 8 spots. Someone is going to be left sorely disappointed and with games running out, there is little margin for error.

You could perhaps also throw Prestige Homes MK Lions into that mix but arguably they have too much ground to make up. However, a win at UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders tomorrow night could really make a big difference and that would heap the pressure onto the Raiders who then face BBL Championship leaders Newcastle Eagles on Sunday in a home double-header.

Guildford Heat are the other team locked into an intense battle with Riders and Raiders. They have just one game this weekend which is a showdown against Glasgow Rocks at Surrey Sports Park with both clubs eager to make amends for losses last weekend.

There are some truly mouth-watering games to look forward to at the top of the standings where Cheshire Jets could have a big say in the direction of the title race. Paul Smith and his team face the two favourites with a trip to Newcastle Eagles tonight and the small matter of a North-West derby against Mersey Tigers on Sunday at Northgate.

Something has to give and consequently One Health Sharks Sheffield will be hoping to take full advantage by safely despatching Essex Pirates in Southend tomorrow evening.



*****************************************************
  WABA   


Tarver & Kurtz to ASU , Danridge to Riyadi - by Omar Shafaamri
in their preparations for the West Asia League Play-off Game in 27th of March , ASU about to sign Guard Derrick Tarver (192-G-80, college: Akron) and Center Brandon Kurtz while Riyadi-Aramex signed Guard Anthony Steven Danridge .

Derrick Tarver is Scoring Machine Guard who is well known in the region , he already finshied his season in Kuwaiti League with Jahra Club averaging 25 points/3 assists/5 rebounds in 26 Minutes only as the kuwaiti league allows only 1 import on the court . Tarver played before in Lebanon , Syria and Iran . Brandon Kurz played last season in Argentina TNA League with San Martin Marcos Juarez club .

From the other Hand , Danridge played in D-League , ABA and Lebanon averaging there with Byblos club 28 pts in 39 Minutes .



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Women News

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


Spartak St. Petersburg win BWBL Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Spartak St. Petersburg win the Regular Season of Baltic League with 15-1 record. Actually it was known already before, however last two games including the Russian team were canceled due to forfeit and next weekend is the start of the Next Stage.
Minsk-2006 was the only team to hand Spartak the loss in the Regular Season. An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Minsk. Belarusian edged guests from St.Petersburg 82-80. The hosts trailed by 6 points at the halftime before their 47-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Minsk-2006 forced 21 Spartak St.Petersburg turnovers. Spartak St.Petersburg was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American forward Chrissy Givens (180-F-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who scored 25 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Viktoryia Pantsiukh (185-F-87) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds. Minsk-2006's coach used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Jennifer Lacy (191-F/C-83, college: Pepperdine) who recorded 24 points and 8 rebounds and guard Eugeniya Belyakova (182-G-86) added 12 points and 10 rebounds respectively. Four Spartak St.Petersburg players scored in double figures.
VICI, Gorizont, TTT-Riga and Lemminkainen join now the so called Semifinal Stage of the League. The games to be started on March 24th.



Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Merike ANDERSON
  Spartak SP
  (181-F-81)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Anderson, Spart.18.3 
 2. Nikolai, TL.18.0 
 3. Belyakova, Spart.16.9 
 4. Murauskaya, Berez.16.9 
 5. Lacy, Spartak SP16.3 
 6. Kozun, Olimpia16.2 
 7. Dyeva, Serene14.9 
 8. Filonchyk, Olimpia14.9 
 9. Kast, TL.14.8 
 10. Givens, Minsk-200614.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sigita GALDIKAITE
  MRU
  (188-F-90)
  Avg: 10
 1. Galdikaite, MRU10.0 
 2. Iordan, Olimpia9.3 
 3. Kozun, Olimpia8.7 
 4. Dyeva, Serene8.5 
 5. Junaid, Spartak SP8.5 
 6. Murauskaya, Berez.8.5 
 7. Filonchyk, Olimpia8.1 
 8. Aleksaite, MRU8.1 
 9. Gricaeva, Spart.8.0 
 10. Kast, TL.8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Iva CIGLAR
  Spartak SP
  (170-G-85)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Ciglar, Spartak SP5.6 
 2. Padabed, Minsk.4.2 
 3. Murauskaya, Berez.4.1 
 4. Kashlei, Olimpia4.1 
 5. Zintikaite, MRU3.6 
 6. Yuzhakova, Spart.3.4 
 7. Keyru, Spartak SP3.2 
 8. Padshyvalava, Victo.3.2 
 9. Jakovits, Berezina3.1 
 10. Givens, Minsk-20063.0 
Steals Per Game
 Marija KUHAREVA
  Spartak SP
  (185-F-89)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Kuhareva, Spart.3.8 
 2. Murauskaya, Berez.3.6 
 3. Keyru, Spartak SP3.6 
 4. Gricaeva, Spart.3.4 
 5. Padshyvalava, Victo.3.1 
 6. Belyakova, Spart.2.9 
 7. Miil, TL.2.5 
 8. Ciglar, Spartak SP2.5 
 9. Martinkute, MRU2.3 
 10. Okuneva, TL.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Valeria KAST
  Mariana
  (201-C-87)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Kast, Minsk-20061.9 
 2. Kast, TL.1.8 
 3. Galdikaite, MRU1.5 
 4. Murauskaya, Berez.1.5 
 5. Paskalenko, Spart.1.5 
 6. Rashcenia, Victoria1.3 
 7. Istseliatsov., Minsk-.1.3 
 8. Filonchyk, Olimpia1.2 
 9. Junaid, Spartak SP1.0 
 10. Kalenta, Berezina0.9 


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  BELARUS - Women  


Minsk-2006 and Gorizont won the Semifinal openers - by Eurobasket News
Minsk-2006 and Gorizont won the Semifinal openers to take 2-0 lead in the series after home victories. Minsk-2006 overcame Sozh 100:47 in Game 1 and then added 87:67 victory in Day 2. The winners of the Regular Season started with 24-13, but lost the second frame 20-26. The last two quarters however belonged to the hosts that reached three-digit win. Brooke Queenan (188-F-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Boston Coll.) stepped up with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Chrissy Givens (180-F-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Middle Tenn.St.) followed her with 21 points. Olga Kopylova (187-F-82) replied with 18 points in the losing case.
Gorizont meanwhile edged Olimpia 80:72 and 80:59. In the first game the home side managed to win all the quarters. Natalia Anufryienka (174-G-85, agency: LBM Management) and Viktoriya Hasper (193-C-88) poured in 18 points each to lead the pace, while Tatyana Troina (188-F-81, college: S.Carolina) scored 14. Tatsiana Dashkevich (179-F/G-89) answered with 11 points in the losing effort.


Standings - Women
Premier League Standings
 1. Minsk-2006 27-1 
 2. Gorizont 23-3 
 3. Olimpia 18-10 
 4. Sozh Gomel 16-12 
 5. BrGU 9-17 
 6. Berezina 8-20 
 7. Victoria 6-22 
 8. Mogilev 5-23 


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


Windsors Clemencon named player of the year - by Eurobasket News
WINDSOR, Ont. (CIS) Jessica Clemencon (188-F-89), a sophomore forward from the University of Windsor, was named CIS player of the year in women's basketball, Thursday.

The native of Saint-Rambert, France, became the first-ever Lancer to claim the Nan Copp Award, a year after being the first Windsor player to be selected rookie of the year.

She is also the first non-Canada West player since 1997 to win the top CIS award including schools from the now defunct GPAC.

Championship website: http://english.cis-sic.ca/championships/wbkb

Saskatchewan dominated the individual awards ceremony held at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts.

Guard Katie Miyazaki (175-F) of Richmond, B.C., was named the CIS defensive player of the year for the second straight season. Team captain Jill Humbert (170-G-88) of Saskatoon received the Sylvia Sweeney Award, recognizing excellence in basketball, academics and community involvement. Lisa Thomaidis claimed the Peter Ennis Award as coach of the year for the second time in three campaigns.

Also honoured during the All-Canadian Banquet were UNB guard Claire Colborne (183-G) of Calgary, who captured the Kathy Shields Award as rookie of the year, as well as Memorial's Brittany Dalton of Harbour Main, Nfld., who received the Tracy MacLeod Award recognizing determination and perseverance.

The CIS Final 8 gets underway Friday with the quarter-final round and culminates on Sunday with the gold medal final, live on TSN at 4:30 p.m. SSN Canada will have live webcasts of all games except the title match, while TVCogeco will televise six contests locally, including the first three quarter-finals, both semis and the bronze medal match.

NAN COPP AWARD (player of the year): Jessica Clemencon, Windsor

Jessica Clemencon is the third player in CIS women's basketball history to win both the Katie Shields and Nan Copp Awards, as rookie and player of the year, respectively, but is the first to accomplish the feat in back-to-back seasons. Calgary's Leighann Doan claimed the Shields trophy in 1997 and followed with a pair of Copp awards in 2000 and 2001, while McGill's Vicky Tessier was honoured in 1993 and 1997.

The 6-foot-3 arts & English major finished the regular season among conference and national leaders in almost every statistical category. She scored an OUA-leading 19.0 points per game, which ranked third in the nation. Clemenon also averaged 8.2 rebounds (13th in the CIS), as well as 2.0 blocks, which was second among CIS leaders. She was the top free-throw shooter in the OUA and fourth in the nation at 85.6 per cent, while her success rate on field goals (55.1%) ranked fifth across the country.

After kicking off the campaign with back-to-back all-tournament selections at the Hoopfest Invitational in Edmonton and the Don Grant Memorial tourney in Fredericton both won by the Lancers Clemenon led Windsor to their first-ever No. 1 ranking last fall, then proceeded to guide the team to first place overall in the OUA standings with a sparkling 20-2 record, followed by a third straight league championship, and to the No. 1 seeding heading into the CIS Final 8.

'Jessica came into the season in superb condition and really took her game to a new level. She is our most talented player and her statistics speak for themselves,' said Windsor head coach Chantal Valle. 'She has consistently been our best player in our biggest games and she always seems to come up with the big play when we need it. I challenged her to be a better all-around athlete this year and taking that challenge seriously, she excelled in every aspect.'

UNB post Amanda Sharpe (183-F) of Fredericton, McGill forward Anneth Him-Lazarenko (178-F) of Laval, Que., and Saskatchewan guard Kim Tulloch (175-G-88) of Regina were the other nominees for the Nan Copp Award.

DEFENSIVE MVP: Katie Miyazaki, Saskatchewan

Miyazaki, who was named CIS defensive player of the year as a member of the Simon Fraser Clan a year ago, was allowed to transfer and play with Saskatchewan this season when SFU joined the NCAA. The only previous multiple winner, Rachel Hart, also claimed the award in back-to-back seasons with different teams, first with Manitoba in 2007 and then with McMaster in 2008.

A health sciences senior, she made an immediate impact with the Huskies, who held their opponents to 59.5 points per game in conference play, third best in Canada West. A two-time national champion with SFU, she set a team record in her first campaign in Saskatoon with 87 steals and led the country with an average of 3.63 steals per game. Also a threat under the basket, the 5-foot-9 veteran guard finished eighth among Canada West leaders in offensive (2.3), defensive (4.5) and total rebounds (6.8) per outing.

Miyazaki, who also chipped in offensively with 13 points a game, helped the Huskies finish first in Canada West with a 22-2 record and capture the second CWUAA banner in team history.

'Katie's athleticism and versatility enable her to routinely guard any position from one through five,' said head coach Lisa Thomaidis. 'She is tough, fearless and has an exceptional ability to anticipate the play. Her on-ball defence and ability to come up with steals, rebounds and loose balls, at the most critical of times, have had a tremendous impact on our success this season.'

St. Francis Xavier guard Ashley Stephen of Toronto, Concordia guard Kaylah Barrett of Brampton, Ont., and Western Ontario forward Matteke Hutzler (188-C) of Napanee, Ont., were also in the running for defensive-MVP honours.

KATHY SHIELDS AWARD (rookie of the year): Claire Colborne, UNB

Colborne, the first UNB player in history to be named CIS rookie of the year, was nothing short of phenomenal in her university debut.

The 18-year-old joined the Varsity Reds out of St. Mary's high school in Calgary and started all 20 conference games, averaging 18.6 points per game for No. 10-ranked UNB, which ranked fourth in the Atlantic, fifth in the country, and first amongst CIS freshmen. The six-foot guard also finished second in the AUS and fifth in the nation in three-point shooting (45.5), and was the V-Reds' best free-throw shooter with a 74.8 per cent success rate. Colborne netted 20 or more points 11 times including a season-high of 29 points in her second contest to help UNB to a 14-6 record and second place in the AUS standings.

'Claire had an immediate impact on our team, was a scoring threat from our very first game and has continued that trend,' said UNB head coach Jeff Speedy. 'She led all CIS rookies in scoring by a wide margin and to be ranked fifth overall in CIS scoring as a freshman is truly a great accomplishment.'

A trio of guards including Concordia's Kaylah Barrett, Toronto's Jill Stratton of Etobicoke, Ont., and Winnipeg's Stephanie Kleysen of Winnipeg were the other finalists for the Kathy Shields Award.

PETER ENNIS AWARD, presented by Coaches of Canada: Lisa Thomaidis, Saskatchewan

In her 13th season at the helm in Saskatoon, Thomaidis received the Peter Ennis Award for the second time, becoming the seventh multiple recipient of the trophy. She has been a four-time conference coach-of-the-year honoree by her Canada West peers.

This season, she led the Huskies to a school-best 22-2 conference mark including 20 straight wins to close out the regular season, and 27 consecutive victories overall, heading into the CIS Final 8. It is the longest win streak in team history and the best in the country this season. The Huskies spent the entire campaign in the national Top 10 including the last eight weeks at No. 1. After finishing first in the conference standings, they made the playoffs for the eighth straight season and claimed the Canada West title to advance to the Final 8 for the fifth time in six years.

Thomaidis, who was named a YWCA Woman of Distinction in 2009, has been an assistant coach with the Canadian national team since 2001 and has coached at the 2006 world championship, two PanAm Games and three Olympic qualification tournaments.

'Lisa is a wonderful example of the type of coach we have here at the University of Saskatchewan,' said director of athletics Basil Hughton. 'She provides a great student-athlete experience for her players by ensuring their attention to the classroom and the court. She is hardworking, a dedicated leader and is truly committed to Huskie Athletics. The success of our women's basketball program is a credit to her. Lisa is well-deserving of this award.'

Cape Breton's Fabian McKenzie, McGill's Ryan Thorne and Toronto's Michle Blanger were also nominated for the Peter Ennis Award.

SYLVIA SWEENEY AWARD: Jill Humbert, Saskatchewan

Humbert becomes the second Saskatchewan player to be recognized for excellence in athletics, academics and community involvement, joining current Huskies assistant coach Jacqueline Lavalle (2002).

On the court, the fifth-year guard and team captain was named a Canada West all-star after she led the conference and finished second in the country in assists (4.71 per game), while placing sixth in league scoring with 15.4 points per game.

A three-time Academic All-Canadian in her first four years at the U of S, the kinesiology and education student has always made time for others and worthwhile causes.

Humbert has worked with the University's PAAL program, where she swam with disabled children. She has organized and delivered a Christmas hamper for the past two years for the 'Adopt A Family' initiative through the Huskie Athletics Council. She has also given back to the sport as a volunteer coach at the White Buffalo Youth Lodge for inner-city youth, with Junior Huskie teams and Saskatoon minor basketball teams, in addition to helping put on various player clinics at high schools and elementary schools across Saskatoon.

'Jill is just an outstanding individual in every way,' said Thomaidis. 'As a coach, she is everything you would want in a student-athlete. She's a positive role model and citizen that gives back to the community, she is a conscientious, high-achieving student and a fearless competitor on the court. Jill has been an excellent ambassador for Huskie Athletics and demonstrates all that this award represents.'

UNB's Amanda Sharpe, a kinesiology student, Laval forward Marie-Michelle Genois, a masters student in cellular and molecular biology from Cap-Sant, Que., and Laurentian guard Katie Goggins, a kinesiology major from Hanmer, Ont., were the other finalists for the Sylvia Sweeney Award.

TRACY MacLEOD AWARD: Brittany Dalton, Memorial

Dalton is the first Memorial winner of the Tracy MacLeod Award since its inception in 1997.

As a freshman in 2007, the 5-foot-9 guard tore her ACL and missed the next season and a half, including the CIS championship hosted by Memorial in St. John's in the winter of 2007.

After a significant amount of rehabilitation and hard work, she was able to return to university basketball and compete at a high level. This season however, in a game just prior to the holiday break, Dalton tore the same ACL once again. Determined not to miss the 2011 AUS championship on her home court, the business senior once again committed herself to an aggressive rehabilitation program, and wearing a brace, returned to action in time for the playoffs.

'Brittany has been playing major minutes at the point-guard position, was our third-leading scorer, second leading rebounder and best defender, all on one good knee,' said Memorial head coach Doug Partridge. 'Her fire and competitive spirit set the tone for our team and her determination to play has been a key in our rise to a competitive level this year.'

Bishop's Jessy Roy of Val d'Or, Que., Ottawa's Sarah Nolette of Edmonton and Alberta's Nicole Clarke of Calgary, all guards, were the other nominees for the Tracy MacLeod Award.

ALL-CANADIAN TEAMS

The all-Canadian teams were also announced on Thursday.

Joining Clemenon on the first squad were conference MVPs Sharpe (AUS), Him-Lazarenko (RSEQ) and Tulloch (Canada West), as well as Saint Mary's guard Justine Colley (175-G-91) of East Preston, N.S.

All are first-time all-Canadians with the exception of Tulloch, who was a first-team member two years ago.

Colley led the nation with a spectacular 25.8 points per game average this season, more than six points per outing better than runner-up Sharpe (19.7 ppg). Tulloch (16.9) and Him-Lazarenko (15.6) were the top scorers in Canada West and Quebec, respectively.

The second CIS unit is comprised of Ottawa post Hannah Sunley-Paisley (186-C) of Toronto, Regina guard Joanna Zalesiak (174-G-88, college: UTEP), a native of Gorzow, Poland, Toronto forward Nicki Schutz (183-F) of Etobicoke, Ont., Laval forward Marie-Michelle Genois of Cap-Sant, Que., as well as Western Ontario forward Matteke Hutzler of Napanee, Ont.

Genois accomplished a rare feat by becoming a five-time CIS all-star, including first-team nods a year ago and in 2007-08. Sunsley-Paisley and Schutz both return from the 2010 second squad.

Joining Colborne as CIS all-rookies for 2010-11 were conference top freshmen Barrett, Stratton and Kleysen, as well as Fraser Valley guard Sarah Wierks of Chilliwack, B.C.

2010-2011 CIS WOMEN'S BASKETBALL AWARDS & ALL-CANADIANS

Nan Copp Award (player of the year): Jessica Clemencon, Windsor
Defensive player of the year: Katie Miyazaki, Saskatchewan
Kathy Shields Award (rookie of the year): Claire Colborne, UNB
Peter Ennis Award (presented by Coaches of Canada): Lisa Thomaidis, Saskatchewan
Sylvia Sweeney Award (student-athlete / community service): Jill Humbert, Saskatchewan
Tracy MacLeod Award: Brittany Dalton, Memorial

First Team

Pos. - Athlete - University - Year - Hometown - Faculty

F Jessica Clemencon Windsor 2 Saint-Rambert, France Arts & English
G Kim Tulloch Saskatchewan 5 Regina, Sask. Pharmacy
P Amanda Sharpe UNB 5 Fredericton, N.B. Kinesiology
F Anneth Him-Lazarenko McGill 3 Laval, Que. Education
G Justine Colley Saint Mary's 2 East Preston, N.S. Science

Second Team

P Hannah Sunley-Paisley Ottawa 5 Toronto, Ont. Arts
G Joanna Zalesiak Regina 3 Gorzow, Poland Kinesiology & Health
F Nicki Schutz Toronto 5 Etobicoke, Ont. Arts & Science
F/P Marie-Michelle Genois Laval 5 Cap-Sant, Que. Ms C&M Biology
F Matteke Hutzler Western 5 Napanee, Ont. Health Sciences

All-Rookie Team

W Claire Colborne UNB 1 Calgary, Alta. BRSS
G Stephanie Kleysen Winnipeg 1 Winnipeg, Man. Science
G Kaylah Barrett Concordia 1 Brampton, Ont. Religion
F Sarah Wierks Fraser Valley 1 Chilliwack, B.C. Science Studies
G Jill Stratton Toronto 1 Etobicoke, Ont. FPEH
Courtesy of: english.cis-sic.ca <<>><<>>

*****************************************************
  CHINA - Women  


Guangdong ties the Final series - by Eurobasket News
Guangdong ties the Final series as the team won over Shenyang 103:77. The latter opened the game with 25-21 lead and then added 24-20 for 8-point halftime advantage. The second half however belonged to the home side. They won the third period 26-15 and then erupted with 36-13 in the last stanza. Cash Swin (187-F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Connecticut) led the winners with 29 points, while Guan Xin (196-C-87) followed her with 19. Miao LiJie (180-G-81) responded with 22 points in the losing effort.
Game 3 is scheduled for tonight.

*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Standings - Women
A1 Standings
Group A
 1. Gospic 3-0 
 2. Lupa Promot. 3-1 
 3. Jolly 1-1 
 4. Studenec O. 1-1 
 5. Medvescak 0-2 
 6. Biska Pula 0-3 
Group B
 1. Croatia 2006 3-0 
 2. Zadar 1-1 
 3. Pozega 1-1 
 4. Split 1-2 
 5. Agram 0-2 


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


Czech Republic ZBL round 7 (Second Stage) best performance: Louice Halvarsson - by Eurobasket News
Swedish center Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89, agency: Josep and Nicolas) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Frisco Sika Brno, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 7 (Second Stage).
The 21-year old player had a double-double of 26 points and 15 rebounds, while her team crushed Trutnov (#4, 10-12) with 16-point margin 88-72. It allowed Frisco Sika to consolidate first place in the Czech Republic ZBL. Frisco Sika has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 21-1. Halvarsson turned to be Frisco Sika's top player in her first season with the team. Louice Halvarsson has solid league stats. She is in league's top in points (5th best: 16.5ppg) and averages impressive 55.7% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was another Frisco Sika Brno's star - 29-year old American Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas). Ford had a very good evening with a double-double of 20 points and 18 rebounds. Of course together with Halvarsson she helped Frisco Sika with another comfortable win 88-72 over the lower-ranked Trutnov (#4, 10-12) being unquestionably team leader. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the top position in A1. Frisco Sika consolidated its place in the very top position of the standings. Her team belongs to top of the standings with 21-1 record and is considered one of the main candidates for the league title. Ford is a newcomer at Frisco Sika, but is already one of team's top players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 14.8ppg (#9). She also registered 12.6 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was center Petra Reisingerova (196-C-73) of Strakonice (#-3). Reisingerova scored 20 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). She was a key player of Strakonice, leading her team to a 80-64 easy win against #1 ranked VS Praha. Strakonice needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams in A2. Their record at this point is 14 victories and 11 lost games. Reisingerova has a great season in Czech Republic. After 25 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.5ppg (3rd best) and rebounds with 11.0rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Michaela Magerciakova (188-C-77) of Karlovy Vary - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Hana Snajdrova-Ziklova (182-F-80) of Trutnov - 24 points and 8 rebounds
6. Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82) of USK Praha - 17 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Ivana Vecerova (194-C-79) of Valosun Brno - 14 points and 9 rebounds
8. Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74) of USK Praha - 20 points and 9 rebounds
9. Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89) of USK Praha - 18 points and 4 assists
10. Michaela Zrustova (183-F-87) of Valosun Brno - 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists

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

*****************************************************
  DENMARK - Women  


Stats Leaders - Damenligaen
Points Per Game
 Lauren BECKLEY
  Lemvig
  (181-F/C-)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Beckley, Lemvig22.1 
 2. Furgeson, Horsens16.8 
 3. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj16.6 
 4. Holmes, Aabyhoj15.6 
 5. Tryggedsson, Aabyh.15.3 
 6. Smith, Horsens15.1 
 7. Fuller, Falcon14.5 
 8. Girdwood, Vaerlose14.4 
 9. Aitch, SISU13.7 
 10. Jensen, Amager13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jessica FULLER
  Falcon
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 12.9
 1. Fuller, Falcon12.9 
 2. Beckley, Lemvig10.0 
 3. Holmes, Aabyhoj9.8 
 4. Furgeson, Horsens9.8 
 5. Kruuse, Amager9.7 
 6. Smith, Horsens8.9 
 7. Kielpinski, Lemvig8.7 
 8. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj7.5 
 9. Girdwood, Vaerlose7.2 
 10. Robertson, Horsh.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Mie BURLIN
  Lemvig
  (178-G-)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Burlin, Lemvig4.2 
 2. Lund, SISU4.2 
 3. Krogh, Aabyhoj3.9 
 4. Jensen, Amager3.4 
 5. Haven, Vaerlose3.3 
 6. Kongeskov, Amager3.3 
 7. Furgeson, Horsens3.2 
 8. Jorgensen, SISU3.1 
 9. Blands, SISU3.1 
 10. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Emilie HESSELDAL
  Aabyhoj
  (185-F/C-90)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj3.3 
 2. Furgeson, Horsens2.7 
 3. Blands, SISU2.5 
 4. Lund, SISU2.3 
 5. Ryder, Horsholm2.2 
 6. Jorgensen, SISU2.0 
 7. Kongeskov, Amager2.0 
 8. Deemand, Horsholm1.9 
 9. Beckley, Lemvig1.9 
 10. Jensen, Amager1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Jessica FULLER
  Falcon
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Fuller, Falcon3.0 
 2. Kielpinski, Lemvig1.6 
 3. Kruuse, Amager0.8 
 4. Dokkedal, Vaerlose0.8 
 5. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj0.7 
 6. Girdwood, Vaerlose0.6 
 7. Aitch, SISU0.6 
 8. Holmes, Aabyhoj0.4 
 9. Gilling, Horsholm0.4 
 10. Smith, Horsens0.4 


Dameligaen Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Amager - Horsens 56-70

Horsens made a big step towards reaching Dameligaen semifinals. They upset Amager on the road in the first game of the quarterfinal series. The game without a history. Horsens led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of Australian guard Charmaine Furgeson (176-86) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 19 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists. American center Jessica Smith (191-86, college: Iona) contributed with 15 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four Horsens players scored in double figures. Forward Anna Nedovic (193-83, college: Colorado) answered with 16 points and guard Anna Seilund (172-93) added 8 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Amager. Amager's coach Turi Hogh rotated eleven players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Horsens: C.Furgeson 19+14reb+5ast, J.Smith 15+7reb+1ast, K.Siig Laursen 13+4ast, J.Ravn 11+3reb+2ast, E.Dorph 6, A.Eskholm 3+3reb
Amager: A.Nedovic 16+2reb+1ast, E.Fogelstrom 16+1ast, A.Seilund 8+5reb+5ast, J.Kongeskov 5+7reb, S.Kruuse 4+6reb+1ast, C.Jensen 3+1reb+2ast
gschID: 123881


Lemvig - Falcon 70-64

Lemvig ensured the winning start to their quarterfinal series against Falcon. They narrowly defeated the visitors in the playoffs opener. Lauren Beckley (181-F/C, college: Shippensburg) produced 25 points to pace the winners. Ivana Udovalieva (174-G-84) added 22 points for Lemvig. Jessica Fuller (193-C-87, college: Hofstra) responded with 24 points for Falcon in the loss.
gschID: 123878


Horsholm - Aabyhoj 63-56

Horsholm prevailed against Aabyhoj in a tough opening game of the series. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 19-12. But Aabyhoj won second period 15-13. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Horsholm made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 26 Aabyhoj turnovers. It was a very good performance for guard Gritt Ryder (177-92) who helped to win the game recording 14 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. Forward Line Piechnik (170-90) contributed with 14 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Power forward Emilie Hesseldal (185-90) answered with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists and American forward Shay Holmes (185, college: Arkansas-Pine Bluff) added 18 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) in the effort for Aabyhoj.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: G.Ryder 14+8reb+4ast, L.Piechnik 14+5reb+1ast, M.Gilling 12+1ast, T.Deemand 7+4reb+1ast, M.Robertson 6+6reb, K.Hounsgaard 5
Aabyhoj: S.Holmes 18+7reb, E.Hesseldal 15+8reb+7ast, I.Tryggedsson 13+5reb+3ast, B.Morsoe 4+2reb, F.Husted 4+2reb+3ast, I.Krogh 2+2reb+2ast
gschID: 123879


SISU - Vaerlose 71-58

SISU had little problems taking a lead in their series against Vaerlose. The game was mostly controlled by SISU. Vaerlose managed to win second period 16-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Vaerlose's 30. SISU looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a very good performance for guard Camilla Blands (180-85, college: Alabama) who helped to win the game recording 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. American center Lauren Aitch (185-87, college: Michigan St., agency: Merit Sports) contributed with 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four SISU players scored in double figures. Guard Trine Knudsen (165) answered with 18 points and 6 rebounds and forward Ditte Graae Jakobsen (185-80) added 20 points in the effort for Vaerlose.
Top scorers:
SISU: L.Aitch 15+8reb+1ast, K.Dalgaard 14+4reb+2ast, C.Blands 13+7reb+4ast, T.Jorgensen 12+6reb+4ast, K.Lund 9+1reb+7ast, T.Duelund 8+2reb+2ast
Vaerlose: D.Graae Jakobsen 20+4reb+1ast, T.Knudsen 18+6reb+2ast, A.Dokkedal 9+6reb+2ast, A.Johansen 7+3reb+2ast, H.Sheikh 2+3reb+1ast, M.Haven 2+1reb+7ast
gschID: 123880




*****************************************************
  ESTONIA - Women  


Standings - Women
Meistriliiga Standings
 1. Eclex Tallinn 13-1 
 2. Tartu Ulikooli 8-6 
 3. TLU/Volta 6-5 
 4. NikeWomen 5-8 
 5. Audentes 1-13 


Meistriliiga Round 16: Audentes edge Tartu Ulikooli by three points - by Eurobasket News
There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in Meistriliiga.

The most exciting game of round 16 in the Meistriliiga took place in Audentes. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of much higher ranked Tartu Ulikooli (8-6) to fifth ranked Audentes (1-13) 73-70 on Thursday evening. Tartu Ulikooli trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 23-11 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 70-73 at the end of the game. Audentes maintains fifth position with 1-13 record. Tartu Ulikooli at the other side keeps the second place with six games lost. Audentes are looking forward to face higher ranked TLU/Volta (#3) in Tallinn in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Tartu Ulikooli will play at home against the league's leader Eclex Tallinn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Tallinn: Eclex Tallinn (#1) and NikeWomen (#4). Eclex Tallinn (13-1) smashed visiting NikeWomen (5-8) by 20 points 76-56. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of NikeWomen. Defending champion maintains first position with 13-1 record. Newly promoted NikeWomen keeps the fourth place with eight games lost. Eclex Tallinn will play against league's second-placed Tartu Ulikooli on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. NikeWomen will have a break next round.



Audentes - Tartu Ulikooli 73-70

The most exciting game of round 16 in the Meistriliiga took place in Audentes. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of much higher ranked Tartu Ulikooli (8-6) to fifth ranked Audentes (1-13) 73-70 on Thursday evening. Tartu Ulikooli trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 23-11 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 70-73 at the end of the game. Audentes maintains fifth position with 1-13 record. Tartu Ulikooli at the other side keeps the second place with six games lost. Audentes are looking forward to face higher ranked TLU/Volta (#3) in Tallinn in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Tartu Ulikooli will play at home against the league's leader Eclex Tallinn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 120774


Eclex Tallinn - NikeWomen 76-56

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Tallinn: Eclex Tallinn (#1) and NikeWomen (#4). Eclex Tallinn (13-1) smashed visiting NikeWomen (5-8) by 20 points 76-56. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of NikeWomen. The game without a history. Eclex Tallinn led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Defending champion maintains first position with 13-1 record. Newly promoted NikeWomen keeps the fourth place with eight games lost. Eclex Tallinn will play against league's second-placed Tartu Ulikooli on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. NikeWomen will have a break next round.
gschID: 120775




*****************************************************
  FINLAND - Women  


Play-off-games started by two home wins - by Elina Koskinen
Espoo Team beat FoA by numbers 68-51 in Espoo on Thursday evening. FoA started strong and led the game for the first quarter. Nevertheless Espoo Team leveled the game to 13-13 when there was only one second left of the first period. In the second quarter home team run over the visitors scoring the numbers 27-9 and half-time score was thereby 40-22. After the break game went on evenly and the difference stayed nearly the same. FoA won the third period 11-14 while Espoo Team won the last quarter 17-15. Evenness was Espoo Team's one key for the victory. Evita Iiskola (181-F-93) netted 12 points and was assisted by Niina Laaksonen (185-F/C-85) and Venlakaisa Holtta (178-G-84) who both scored 11 points. In addition Maija Lahde (183-F-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) finished 10 and Mirka Dettmann (173-F-72) 9 points. Laaksonen gathered the game highest 12 rebounds. The most efficient from FoA was Ashley Pellom (170-G-86) who scored the game highest 15 points. Pellom was helped by Lotta Aaltonen (179-F/G-85, college: Coker) and Minna Sten (188-F-87) who netted 9 points.

ToPo took a home victory over Huima in Helsinki. The match between ToPo and Huima was very even and the lead was changed for ten times during the game. Final score was eventually 80-71 for home team. First half of the game was colorful and Huima took the first quarter by numbers 18-22. However ToPo won the second period 18-15 and half-time score was only one point, 36-37, for Huima. After 25 minutes of the game ToPo started to make some difference and won the third period 27-15. Despite Huima tried to fight in the last quarter they couldn't narrow the lead more than two points as the numbers were 17-19. The star of the night was ToPo's Dandra Moss (183-F-88, college: VCU) who scored the game highest 33 points and took 8 rebounds. Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, college: Xavier) assisted her by 23 points and Janika Sundstrom (175-G-87) by 10 points. Despite the defeat Huima won rebounds by numbers 35-43. Both Kenya Robinson (182-C-70, college: New Orleans) and Judie Lomax (180-F-88, college: Columbia) gathered 12 rebounds. Robinson scored also 22 points along with Michele Jones (186-F/C-87, college: Cincinnati). Lomax assisted them by 16 points.

<<>><<>>

*****************************************************
  FRANCE - Women  


Standings - LFB
LFB Standings
 1. Bourges 20-1 
 2. Lattes Montp. 15-6 
 3. Challes 14-7 
 4. Tarbes 13-7 
 5. Nantes 13-8 
 6. Landes 12-9 
 7. Arras 11-9 
 8. Mondeville 9-10 
 9. Aix-en-Provence 9-12 
 10. Union Hainaut 8-13 
 11. Villeneuve 8-13 
 12. Charleville 8-13 
 13. COB Calais 4-17 
 14. Toulouse 1-20 


LFB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Mistie BASS-WILLIAMS
  Challes
  (191-C-83)
  Avg: 18.3
 1. Bass-W., Challes18.3 
 2. Akonga Nsimb., Arr.16.2 
 3. Grima, Aix-en-P.16.1 
 4. Humphrey, Landes16.1 
 5. Mann, Charleville15.3 
 6. Sharp, Mondeville15.0 
 7. Sanni, Villeneuve14.9 
 8. Hurst, Aix-en-P.14.7 
 9. Dubljevic, Tarbes14.6 
 10. Covington, Union H.14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aurelie BONNAN
  Mondeville
  (187-F-83)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Bonnan, Mondeville10.9 
 2. Diawara, Charleville10.1 
 3. Bass-W., Challes9.6 
 4. Humphrey, Landes9.5 
 5. Sanni, Villeneuve9.1 
 6. Bales, Union Hainaut8.7 
 7. Kamba, Union H.8.4 
 8. Matic, Tarbes7.1 
 9. Grima, Aix-en-P.6.9 
 10. Thomas, Villeneuve6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Natalie HURST
  Aix-en-Provence
  (163-G-83)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Hurst, Aix-en-P.5.1 
 2. Aubert, Nantes4.9 
 3. Manic, Landes4.3 
 4. Lepron, Tarbes4.3 
 5. Mitchell, Arras4.0 
 6. Tanqueray, Villeneuve3.9 
 7. Bar, Challes3.9 
 8. Sharp, Mondeville3.6 
 9. Dubljevic, Tarbes3.6 
 10. Carpreaux, Villeneuve3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Romy BAR
  Challes
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Bar, Challes2.8 
 2. Gomis, Arras2.7 
 3. Milovanovic, Toulouse2.1 
 4. Skrela, Lattes M.2.0 
 5. Lepron, Tarbes1.9 
 6. Bonnan, Mondeville1.9 
 7. Poto, Lattes M.1.9 
 8. Kamba, Union H.1.8 
 9. Hightowner, Nantes1.8 
 10. Cibert, COB Calais1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Alison BALES
  Union Hainaut
  (201-C-85)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Bales, Union Hainaut2.2 
 2. Ndongue, Bourges1.8 
 3. Smith, Tarbes0.9 
 4. Humphrey, Landes0.8 
 5. Gay, Aix-en-P.0.7 
 6. Sy-Diop, Nantes0.7 
 7. Bar, Challes0.7 
 8. Bass-W., Challes0.7 
 9. Bonnan, Mondeville0.6 
 10. Jones, Toulouse0.6 


French Cup: Quarterfinals are set - by Eurobasket News
French Cup 1/8 Finals games were played last weekend.

Quarterfinals pairs:
Tarbes - Lattes Montpellier (March 23)
Bourges - Nantes Reze (March 22)
Pays d'Aix Mondeville (March 23)
Arras - Villeneuve d'Ascq (April 6)

1/8 Finals results:
Lattes Montpellier - Challes-les-Eaux 78-52
Nice (L2) - Pays d'Aix 64-65
Tarbes - Toulouse 63-37
Basket Landes - Nantes Reze 58-62
Arras - Hainaut Basket 76-68
Le Havre (L2) - Mondeville 42-70
Villeneuve d'Ascq - Charleville-Mezieres 71-43
Bourges - Calais 75-41

1/16 Finals results:
Perpignan (L2) - Lattes Montpellier 42-62
Lyon (L2) - Challes-les-Eaux 40-80
Voiron (L2) - Pays d'Aix 46-78
Villeurbanne (NF1) - Nice (L2) 40-80
Roche Vende (L2) - Tarbes 56-75
Limoges (L2) - Toulouse 57-62
Angers (L2) - Basket Landes 57-77
Pau Lacq Orthez (L2) - Nantes Rez 44-70
Rennes (L2) - Arras 41-71
Dunkerque (L2) - Hainaut Basket 60-84
Pleyber Christ (L2) - Mondeville 50-74
Aubervilliers (NF1) - Aplemont Le Havre (L2) 46-75
Wasquehal (NF1) - Villeneuve d'Ascq 53-85
Armentires (L2) - Charleville-Mzires 56-59
SI Graffenstaden (L2) - Bourges 63-90
Reims (L2) - Calais 56-59

Semifinals games of the French Cup are scheduled for April 16. The winners will meet in the Grand Final, which is scheduled for May 15. The game will be played in Palais Omnisports Paris-Bercy.

LFB Round 21: Tarbes is defeated by Nantes Reze - by Eurobasket News
The teams have now bigger motivation at this stage of Regular Season. Every game can be crucial and decide about teams' position at the end.

The game between third ranked Tarbes (13-7) and fifth ranked Nantes Reze (13-8) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. Tarbes was defeated by Nantes Reze in a tough game in Nantes 65-72. Tarbes was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 23-10 charge of Nantes Reze, which allowed them to win the game. They made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. Croatian center Emilija Podrug (190-79) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Caroline Aubert (168-80, college: Colorado) chipped in 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Roneeka Hodges (180-82, college: Florida St., agency: Josep and Nicolas) with 18 points. Nantes Reze maintains fifth place with 13-8 record. Tarbes lost third consecutive game. Defending champion dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. Nantes Reze are looking forward to face league's leader Bourges on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tarbes will play against Arras and is hoping to win this game.
LFB top team - Bourges (20-1) added another victory to their record. This time they beat eleventh ranked Villeneuve D'Asco (8-13) 66-58. Guard Paoline Salagnac (176-84, agency: Josep and Nicolas) nailed 13 points and 4 assists for the winning side and Emmeline Ndongue accounted for 12 points and 5 rebounds. Nigerian center Olayinka Sanni (188-86, college: W.Virginia, agency: Josep and Nicolas) came up with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Villeneuve D'Asco in the defeat. Bourges have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-1 record. Villeneuve D'Asco at the other side dropped to the tenth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Union Hainaut and Charleville. Bourges will play against Nantes Reze (#5) at home in the next round. Villeneuve D'Asco will play against Charleville-Mezieres (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Ninth-ranked Aix-en-Provence (9-12) gave a tough game to fourth ranked Challes-les-Eaux (14-7) in Les Milles on Wednesday. The visitors from Challes managed to secure only one-point victory 67-66. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Aix-en-Provence. The best player for the winners was Mistie Bass-Williams who had a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. At the other side the best for losing team was Natalie Hurst who recorded 18 points and 5 assists. The victory was the third consecutive win for Challes-les-Eaux. They moved-up to third place. Loser Aix-en-Provence keeps the ninth position with 12 games lost. Challes-les-Eaux will meet at home Union Hainaut (#10) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Aix-en-Provence will play against Basket Landes in Mont de Marsan and hope to secure a win.
Second ranked Lattes Montpellier (15-6) crushed at home 13th ranked COB Calais (4-17) by 26 points 81-55, which is the biggest margin this round. It was a good game for Iva Perovanovic who led her team to a victory with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Lattes Montpellier's coach Valery Demory felt very confident using 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Lattes Montpellier. They maintain second place with 15-6 record having five points less than leader Bourges. COB Calais lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the thirteenth position with 17 games lost. Lattes Montpellier's next round opponent will be Mondeville (#8) on the road which should be theoretically another easy game. COB Calais will play against Toulouse (#14) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 21 Landes destroyed Toulouse on the opponent's court 73-54. Union Hainaut managed to outperform Charleville in a home game 69-51.

Aix-en-Provence - Challes 66-67

Ninth-ranked Aix-en-Provence (9-12) gave a tough game to fourth ranked Challes-les-Eaux (14-7) in Les Milles on Wednesday. The visitors from Challes managed to secure only one-point victory 67-66. However their fans expected much easier game. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Aix-en-Provence. Aix-en-Provence trailed by 15 points after 3 quarters before a 25-11 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 66-67 at the end of the game. They outrebounded Aix-en-Provence 37-22 including a 24-11 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American center Mistie Bass-Williams (191-83, college: Duke) who had a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. The former international forward Magali Lacroix (186-75) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Australian guard Natalie Hurst (163-83) who recorded 18 points and 5 assists and Australian power forward Hollie Grima (190-83) added 18 points and 9 rebounds respectively. The victory was the third consecutive win for Challes-les-Eaux. They moved-up to third place. Loser Aix-en-Provence keeps the ninth position with 12 games lost. Challes-les-Eaux will meet at home Union Hainaut (#10) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Aix-en-Provence will play against Basket Landes in Mont de Marsan and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Challes: M.Lacroix 18+7reb+1ast, R.Bar 14+4reb+2ast, M.Bass-Williams 14+11reb+4ast, S.Palie 6+2reb+2ast, C.Costaz 5+2reb+2ast, A.Plagnard 5+4reb+2ast
Aix-en-Provence: N.Hurst 18+4reb+5ast, H.Grima 18+9reb, S.Reghaissia 13+2reb+5ast, Z.Dimitrakou 7+1reb+1ast, I.Strunc 7+4reb, Z.Margaux Okou 2
gschID: 101074


Bourges - Villeneuve 66-58

LFB top team - Bourges (20-1) added another victory to their record. This time they beat eleventh ranked Villeneuve D'Asco (8-13) 66-58. It looked good early as Villeneuve D'Asco took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Bourges had a 18-9 second period charge getting the lead and Villeneuve D'Asco was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 58-66. Bourges brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. Guard Paoline Salagnac (176-84, agency: Josep and Nicolas) nailed 13 points and 4 assists for the winning side and international center Emmeline Ndongue (190-83) accounted for 12 points and 5 rebounds. Nigerian center Olayinka Sanni (188-86, college: W.Virginia, agency: Josep and Nicolas) came up with 15 points and 8 rebounds and American power forward Carla Thomas (191-85, college: Vanderbilt, agency: LBM Management) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Villeneuve D'Asco in the defeat. Bourges have an impressive series of eight victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-1 record. Villeneuve D'Asco at the other side dropped to the tenth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Union Hainaut and Charleville. Bourges will play against Nantes Reze (#5) at home in the next round. Villeneuve D'Asco will play against Charleville-Mezieres (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bourges: P.Salagnac 13+2reb+4ast, E.Ndongue 12+5reb+2ast, A.Lardy 8+2reb+2ast, C.Joens 8+6reb+2ast, I.Burgrova 6+5reb+1ast, M.Miljkovic 6+1reb+1ast
Villeneuve: O.Sanni 15+8reb+1ast, E.Gomis 15+1reb+2ast, C.Thomas 11+7reb+1ast, A.Knezevic 7+6reb+1ast, E.Bertal 6+9reb, M.Carpreaux 2+1reb+4ast
gschID: 101075


Lattes Montp. - COB Calais 81-55

Second ranked Lattes Montpellier (15-6) crushed at home 13th ranked COB Calais (4-17) by 26 points 81-55, which is the biggest margin this round. The game without a history. Lattes Montpellier led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding COB Calais to just 7 points in third quarter. Lattes Montpellier made 16-of-16 charity shots (100 percent !!!) during the game. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 26 assists. It was a good game for Montenegrin power forward Iva Perovanovic (190-83) who led her team to a victory with 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Croatian swingman Ana Lelas (183-83) contributed with 10 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Lattes Montpellier's coach Valery Demory felt very confident using 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Melanie Arnaud (184-88) answered with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Sylvie Gruszczynski (171-86) added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for COB Calais. The victory was the third consecutive win for Lattes Montpellier. They maintain second place with 15-6 record having five points less than leader Bourges. COB Calais lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the thirteenth position with 17 games lost. Lattes Montpellier's next round opponent will be Mondeville (#8) on the road which should be theoretically another easy game. COB Calais will play against Toulouse (#14) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Lattes Montp.: I.Perovanovic 17+6reb+4ast, A.Poto 12+1reb+6ast, A.Lelas 10+7reb+6ast, G.Skrela 9+1reb+3ast, F.Sacko 9+7reb, I.Ajanovic 9+4reb+1ast
COB Calais: M.Arnaud 12+10reb+4ast, S.Gruszczynski 10+6reb+5ast, N.Ndiaye 9+6reb+4ast, M.Sinico 9+2ast, B.Ardossi 8+5reb, A.Cibert 5+5reb+1ast
gschID: 101070


Toulouse - Landes 54-73

Very expected game when 14th ranked Toulouse (1-20) was crushed at home by sixth ranked Basket Landes (12-9) 73-54. The game without a history. Basket Landes led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Basket Landes forced 20 Toulouse turnovers and outrebounded them 35-24 including 23 on the defensive glass. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. It was a good game for Serbian guard Katarina Manic (181-80) who led her team to a victory with 14 points and 6 assists. American guard Tamera Young (188-86, college: JMU) contributed with 9 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Basket Landes' coach Olivier Lafargue allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Guard Camille Aubert (170-89) answered with 12 points and 6 rebounds and American forward Shanavia Dowdell (188-87, college: Louisiana Tech, agency: LBM Management) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Toulouse. Basket Landes maintains sixth place with 12-9 record. Toulouse lost their sixteenth game in a row. They stay dead last with 20 lost games. Basket Landes' next round opponent will be Aix-en-Provence (#9) in Les Milles. Toulouse will play on the road against COB Calais (#13) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Landes: A.Le Gluher 16+3reb, K.Manic 14+4reb+6ast, M.Laborde 11+3reb+1ast, T.Young 9+8reb+4ast, J.Humphrey 9+9reb+3ast, B.Diouf 8+3reb+3ast
Toulouse: C.Aubert 12+6reb+3ast, S.Dowdell 12+9reb, C.Jones 9+1reb+2ast, E.Maurice 8+3reb, J.de Colo 5+1ast, S.Milovanovic 5+1reb+3ast
gschID: 101071


Nantes - Tarbes 72-65

The game between third ranked Tarbes (13-7) and fifth ranked Nantes Reze (13-8) was the most important one in the last round on Wednesday night. Tarbes was defeated by Nantes Reze in a tough game in Nantes 65-72. Tarbes was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 23-10 charge of Nantes Reze, which allowed them to win the game. They made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. Croatian center Emilija Podrug (190-79) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Caroline Aubert (168-80, college: Colorado) chipped in 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Roneeka Hodges (180-82, college: Florida St., agency: Josep and Nicolas) with 18 points and the other American import power forward Brooke Smith (191-84, college: Stanford, agency: LBM Management) scored 10 points and 6 rebounds. Nantes Reze maintains fifth place with 13-8 record. Tarbes lost third consecutive game. Defending champion dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. Nantes Reze are looking forward to face league's leader Bourges on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tarbes will play against Arras and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Nantes: E.Podrug 18+10reb+1ast, Y.Andreyeva 12+2reb, C.Aubert 10+6reb+4ast, T.Lindsay 9+5reb, A.Hightower 7+2reb+6ast, M.Sy-Diop 5+5reb+5ast
Tarbes: R.Hodges 18+3reb+2ast, F.Lepron 11+3reb+2ast, B.Smith 10+6reb+2ast, I.Arrondo 8+2reb+2ast, I.Matic 7+8reb, N.El Gargati 6+6reb
gschID: 101072


Union Hainaut - Charleville 69-51

There was a small surprise in Saint-Amand where twelfth ranked Union Hainaut (8-13) defeated 10th ranked Charleville-Mezieres (8-13) 69-51. The game was mostly controlled by Union Hainaut. Charleville-Mezieres was better in fourth quarter 19-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Union Hainaut dominated on the defensive end, holding Charleville-Mezieres to just 7 points in third quarter. They outrebounded Charleville-Mezieres 42-25 including a 32-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Union Hainaut brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. It was a good game for forward Laetitia Kamba (186-87) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Emilie Silbande (178-81) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Mali center Djene Diawara (192-85) answered with 17 points and 9 rebounds and guard Amel Bouderra (160-89) added 11 points in the effort for Charleville-Mezieres. Union Hainaut moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Villeneuve and Charleville. Charleville-Mezieres lost their third game in a row. Union Hainaut's next round opponent will be higher ranked Challes-les-Eaux (#3) on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Union Hainaut: E.Silbande 14+2reb+3ast, L.Kamba 12+11reb, A.Jackson 11+5reb+2ast, W.- HYLTON 10+6reb+1ast, E.Duvivier 9+4reb+6ast, A.Bales 7+9reb+3ast
Charleville: D.Diawara 17+9reb+1ast, A.Bouderra 11+1reb+3ast, A.Kusion 6+2reb, E.Dimitrova 5+3reb+2ast, S.Ouerghi 4+5reb+2ast, C.Contessi 3+2reb+1ast
gschID: 101073




French LFB round 21 best performance: Mistie Bass-Williams - by Eurobasket News
American center Mistie Bass-Williams (191-C-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Challes-les-Eaux Basket, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
The 27-year old player had a double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, while her team edged out Aix-en-Provence (#9, 9-12) 67-66. Challes is placed at 3rd position in French LFB. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Challes will need more victories to improve their 14-7 record. Bass-Williams turned to be Challes' top player in her first season with the team. Mistie Bass-Williams averages this season 18.3ppg and 9.6rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 31-year old Croatian Emilija Podrug (190-C-79) of Reze Nantes Basket 44. Podrug had a very good evening with a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Nantes cruised to a 72-65 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Tarbes (#4, 13-7). Nantes' 5th position in the standings has not changed. Her team lost some distance to top teams. But 13-8 record is not bad and everything may still change. Podrug is a newcomer at Nantes, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was Montenegrin Iva Perovanovic (190-C/F-83) of league's second-best Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket. Perovanovic showcased her all-around game by recording 17 points, six rebounds and four assists in the last round. She was a key player of Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket, leading her team to a 81-55 easy win against the lower-ranked COB Calais (#13, 4-17). Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 6 lost games. Perovanovic has a very solid season. In 18 games in France she scored 11.1ppg. She also has 5.2rpg and FGP: 61.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) of Aix-en-Provence - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Hollie Grima (190-C/F-83) of Aix-en-Provence - 18 points and 9 rebounds
6. Katarina Manic (181-G-80) of Landes - 14 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Laetitia Kamba (186-F-87) of Union Hainaut - 12 points and 11 rebounds
8. Emmeline Ndongue (190-C-83) of Bourges - 12 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Magali Lacroix (186-F-75) of Challes - 18 points and 7 rebounds
10. Roneeka Hodges (180-G-82) of Tarbes - 18 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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  HOLLAND - Women  


Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Awards 2010-11 - by Greg
All-Eredivisie 1st Team 2010-2011
#s#
Bridget Yoerger
Yoerger
Kati Harty
Harty
Myrthe Beld
Beld
Heather Stec
Stec
Sharon Lammerink
Lammerink
#e#5

Player of the Year: Bridget Yoerger (180-F) of Wereldtickets.nl
Guard of the Year: Kati Harty (167-PG-87) of ProBuild Lions
Forward of the Year: Bridget Yoerger (180-F) of Wereldtickets.nl
Center of the Year: Sharon Lammerink (189-C-93) of Eurosped
Bosman Player of the Year: Natalie Hudec (166-G-78) of Eurosped
Import Player of the Year: Bridget Yoerger (180-F) of Wereldtickets.nl
Domestic Player of the Year: Myrthe Beld (183-G-89) of Eurosped
Defensive Player of the Year: Heather Stec (188-F-86) of Grasshoppers
Coach of the Year: Joris Zandbergen of Wereldtickets.nl

1st Team
PG: Kati Harty (167-87) of ProBuild Lions
G: Myrthe Beld (183-89) of Eurosped
F: Heather Stec (188-86) of Grasshoppers
F: Bridget Yoerger (180) of Wereldtickets.nl
C: Sharon Lammerink (189-93) of Eurosped

2nd Team
G: Molly McDowell (178-81) of ProBuild Lions
G: Lindsay Biggs (180-88) of Amazone
G: Rachel Roubehie Fissa (175-89) of Amazone
F: Kourtney Treffers (184-94) of HLB Account.
C: Jantine Kraak (193-89) of Binnenland

Honorable Mention
Belinda Bos (181-G/F-84) of ProBuild Lions
Jamailah Adams (179-G-93) of Binnenland
Anouk Biesters (182-G/F-86) of Batouwe
Yvonne van Daalen (175-G-87) of Batouwe
Sigrid Sinnema (174-G/F) of Batouwe
Tahnee Vogelsang (183-F-85) of Amazone
Marlous Nieuwveen (196-C-80) of Wereldtickets.nl
Laura Kooij (184-F/C-82) of HLB Account.
Rianne De Roos (193-C-89) of Celeritas-Donar

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Myrthe Beld (183-89) of Eurosped
G: Rachel Roubehie Fissa (175-89) of Amazone
F: Kourtney Treffers (184-94) of HLB Account.
F/C: Laura Kooij (184-82) of HLB Account.
C: Sharon Lammerink (189-93) of Eurosped

All-Imports Team
PG: Kati Harty (167-87) of ProBuild Lions
G: Kim Sitzmann (178-88) of Amazone
G: Molly McDowell (178-81) of ProBuild Lions
F: Bridget Yoerger (180) of Wereldtickets.nl
F: Heather Stec (188-86) of Grasshoppers


Stats Leaders
Eredivisie Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Beld, Eurosp. 27.4
2 Harty, ProBuilt 25.9
3 Stec, STOL 21.4
4 Sitzmann, Amaz. 20.3
5 Yoerger, Werel. 20.1
Rebounds Per Game
1 Stec, STOL 13.5
2 Lammerink, Eurosp. 12.7
3 Yoerger, Werel. 10.3 4. Kraak, Bin. 9.9
5 De Roos, Cel. 9.5
Assists Per Game
1 Beld, Eurosp. 6.1
2 Kooij, HLB 5.6
3 van Daalen, Bat. 5.1
4 Sitzmann, STOL 4.7
5 McDowell, ProBuild 4.4
Steals Per Game
1 Beld, Eurosp. 5.3
1 Harty, Probuild 5.3
3 Sitzmann, STOL 3.7
4 Vogelsang, Amaz. 3.7
5 Roubehie, Amaz. 3.6
Blocks Per Game
1 Stec, STOL 1.0
1 de Roos, Cel. 1.0


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  HUNGARY - Women  


LamiVed Women's Cup Final Four @ Krmend - by Adam Patonay
Pecs 2010, MKB Euroleasing Sopron, SEAT LamiVed Gyor and ZTE NKK reached the Final Four on the hungarian cup which will be on this weekend. The Final Four is arranged on neutral court onto a big surprise. The home of the Final Four is Kormend. The city have the biggest traditional men club in the country but on this weekends the ladies will use the special thmosphere gym.

SCHEDULE

2011.03.19. Saturday

15:30 ZTE NKK vs. MKB Euroleasing Sopron
18:00 Pecs 2010 vs. SEAT LamiVed Gyor

2011.03.20. Sunday

12:30 game for the 3rd place
15:00 FINAL

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  ISRAEL - Women  


Maccabi Ashdod complete semifinal picture - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Ashdod - Raanana Hertzeliya 81:55

Maccabi Ashdod became the fourth D1 League semifinalists. They held off Raanana Hertzeliya in the fifth decisive game of the quarterfinals. Renee Montgomery (170-G-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) scored 22 points to pace the winners. Maccabi Ashdod will take on Electra Ramat in the semis.
Maccabi Ashdod strongly entered the game. They posted a 14:2 lead midway through the opening term. Raanana Hertzeliya got closer but still trailed by eight points after ten minutes 12:20. The hosts used a 9:0 run midway through the second period to accumulate a 29:14 advantage. Maccabi Ashdod posted a 38:26 halftime lead. Buchris and Tamara James (178-G/F-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: Miami, FL) drained back-to-back triples midway through the third term as the margin grew at 16-point margin. Ashdod arrived at the final intermission up by 19 points 56:37. Renee Montgomery opened the final period with a three-pointer as Maccabi gained a 22-point buffer. Katz and Booker dragged the visitors within 13 points but Raanana Hertzeliya never got any closer and had to surrender at the end. Katia Levitsky (190-C-85, agency: Data Plus Group, college: Villanova) produced 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for Maccabi Ashdod. Tamara James accounted for 15 points in the win. Christi Thomas (191-F-82) answered with 15 points and 17 rebounds for Raanana Hertzeliya. Briann January (173-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Arizona St.) finished with 10 points, 7 boards and 4 assists in the loss.

Maccabi Ashdod: Renee Montgomery 22, Katia Levitsky 17, Tamara James 15
Raanana Hertzeliya: Christi Thomas 15, Briann January 10


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  ITALY - Women  


A2 Round 27 (South): No surprise as #1 C.U.S. Chieti defeats Risorseimmobiliari.it Spezia - by Eurobasket News
The teams have now bigger motivation at this stage of Regular Season. Every game can be crucial and decide about teams' position at the end.

A2 top team - C.U.S. Chieti (20-5) managed to deliver another win on Wednesday. This time they beat sixth ranked Risorseimmobiliari.it Spezia (13-12) in La Spezia 65-52. C.U.S. Chieti have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-5 record. Risorseimmobiliari.it Spezia lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with 12 games lost. C.U.S. Chieti are looking forward to face Consum.it Siena (#8) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Risorseimmobiliari.it Spezia will play against Ceprini Costruzioni Orvieto and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Eleventh-ranked SACES Napoli (10-15) gave a tough game to third ranked Gea Magazzini Alcamo (19-6). The visitors from Alcamo managed to secure only two-point victory 47-45. However their fans expected much easier game. Gea Magazzini Alcamo maintains third place with 19-6 record behind leader Bologna. SACES Napoli at the other side dropped to the tenth position with 15 games lost. They share it with Pomezia. Gea Magazzini Alcamo will play against Il Fotoamatore Firenze (#13) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. SACES Napoli will play against Calabra Rende and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Firenze between Il Fotoamatore Firenze and Sma Ancona. Thirteenth ranked Il Fotoamatore Firenze (7-18) got a very close home victory over 12th ranked Sma Ancona (8-17). Il Fotoamatore Firenze managed to escape with a 2-point win 43-41 on Wednesday evening. Il Fotoamatore Firenze maintains thirteenth place with 7-18 record. Loser Sma Ancona keeps the twelfth position with 17 games lost. Il Fotoamatore Firenze will meet higher ranked Gea Magazzini Alcamo (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sma Ancona will play against the league's second-placed Termocarispe La Spezia (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
An interesting game took place in Siena where higher ranked Consum.it Siena (12-13) was upset on its own court by fourteenth ranked College Italia (5-20) 56-52. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Consum.it Siena. Newly promoted College Italia maintains fourteenth place with 5-20 record. Consum.it Siena at the other side keeps the eighth position with 13 games lost. College Italia's next round opponent will be higher ranked ANTS Viterbo (#9) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Second ranked Termocarispe La Spezia (20-6) crushed at home 9th ranked ANTS Viterbo (12-13) by 22 points 76-54, which is the biggest margin this round on Wednesday night. Newly promoted Termocarispe La Spezia maintains second place with 20-6 record having just -1 point less than leader Bologna. Loser ANTS Viterbo dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Termocarispe La Spezia will face Sma Ancona (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ANTS Viterbo will play against College Italia (#14) in Roma.

In the last two games of round 27 Rende lost to Battipaglia on the opponent's court 47-64. Ragusa managed to outperform Pomezia in a home game 74-67.

Group South
R. La Spezia - Chieti 52-65

A2 top team - C.U.S. Chieti (20-5) managed to deliver another win on Wednesday. This time they beat sixth ranked Risorseimmobiliari.it Spezia (13-12) in La Spezia 65-52. C.U.S. Chieti have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-5 record. Risorseimmobiliari.it Spezia lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with 12 games lost. C.U.S. Chieti are looking forward to face Consum.it Siena (#8) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Risorseimmobiliari.it Spezia will play against Ceprini Costruzioni Orvieto and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 118253


Firenze - Ancona 43-41

A very close game took place in Firenze between Il Fotoamatore Firenze and Sma Ancona. Thirteenth ranked Il Fotoamatore Firenze (7-18) got a very close home victory over 12th ranked Sma Ancona (8-17). Il Fotoamatore Firenze managed to escape with a 2-point win 43-41 on Wednesday evening. Il Fotoamatore Firenze maintains thirteenth place with 7-18 record. Loser Sma Ancona keeps the twelfth position with 17 games lost. Il Fotoamatore Firenze will meet higher ranked Gea Magazzini Alcamo (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sma Ancona will play against the league's second-placed Termocarispe La Spezia (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
gschID: 118254


Napoli - Alcamo 45-47

Eleventh-ranked SACES Napoli (10-15) gave a tough game to third ranked Gea Magazzini Alcamo (19-6). The visitors from Alcamo managed to secure only two-point victory 47-45. However their fans expected much easier game. Gea Magazzini Alcamo maintains third place with 19-6 record behind leader Bologna. SACES Napoli at the other side dropped to the tenth position with 15 games lost. They share it with Pomezia. Gea Magazzini Alcamo will play against Il Fotoamatore Firenze (#13) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. SACES Napoli will play against Calabra Rende and hopes to get back on the winning track.
gschID: 118255


Battipaglia - Rende 64-47

Very expected game when 15th ranked Calabra Rende (4-21) was defeated on the road by seventh ranked Carpedil Battipaglia (14-12) 64-47 on Wednesday. Carpedil Battipaglia moved-up to sixth place. Calabra Rende lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth position with 21 games lost. Carpedil Battipaglia will face So.Se.Pharm Pomezia (#10) in Roma in the next round. Calabra Rende will play at home against SACES Napoli (#11).
gschID: 118256


Ragusa - Pomezia 74-67

Very predictable result when fourth ranked Passalacqua Ragusa (18-8) defeated at home 10th ranked So.Se.Pharm Pomezia (10-15) 74-67 on Wednesday. Passalacqua Ragusa maintains fourth place with 18-8 record. Loser So.Se.Pharm Pomezia keeps the tenth position with 15 games lost. Passalacqua Ragusa will have a break next round. So.Se.Pharm Pomezia will play at home against Carpedil Battipaglia (#6).
gschID: 118250


Siena - College Italia 52-56

An interesting game took place in Siena where higher ranked Consum.it Siena (12-13) was upset on its own court by fourteenth ranked College Italia (5-20) 56-52. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Consum.it Siena. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Consum.it Siena won third quarter 18-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. College Italia dominated on the defensive end, holding Consum.it Siena to just 7 points in second quarter. Newly promoted College Italia maintains fourteenth place with 5-20 record. Consum.it Siena at the other side keeps the eighth position with 13 games lost. College Italia's next round opponent will be higher ranked ANTS Viterbo (#9) at home and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
gschID: 118251


T. Spezia - Viterbo 76-54

Second ranked Termocarispe La Spezia (20-6) crushed at home 9th ranked ANTS Viterbo (12-13) by 22 points 76-54, which is the biggest margin this round on Wednesday night. Newly promoted Termocarispe La Spezia maintains second place with 20-6 record having just -1 point less than leader Bologna. Loser ANTS Viterbo dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Termocarispe La Spezia will face Sma Ancona (#12) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. ANTS Viterbo will play against College Italia (#14) in Roma.
gschID: 118252




Standings A2 Women - by Eurobasket News
A2 Standings
North
 1. Bologna 19-5 
 2. Udine 17-7 
 3. Bolzano 17-7 
 4. Cagliari CUS 17-7 
 5. Cagliari V. 13-11 
 6. Alghero 13-11 
 7. San Martino 12-12 
 8. Borgotaro 12-12 
 9. Marghera 11-13 
 10. Vigarano 11-13 
 11. Crema 9-15 
 12. Milano 7-17 
 13. Biassono 7-17 
 14. Cervia 3-21 
South
 1. Chieti 20-5 
 2. T. Spezia 20-6 
 3. Alcamo 19-6 
 4. Ragusa 18-8 
 5. Orvieto 17-8 
 6. Battipaglia 14-12 
 7. R. La Spezia 13-12 
 8. Siena 12-13 
 9. Viterbo 12-13 
 10. Pomezia 10-15 
 11. Napoli 10-15 
 12. Ancona 8-17 
 13. Firenze 7-18 
 14. College Italia 5-20 
 15. Rende 4-21 


*****************************************************
  JAPAN - Women  


All games for rest of the season called off - by Eurobasket News
TOKYO, Japan (JBL/WJBL): The JBL and WJBL games for the rest of the season have been called off in the wake of the disaster that struck north-east Japan.

The WJBL also went ahead and announced the final rankings for the season based on the results of the semifinals and standings in the Regular Season.

Only one game in the best-of-five Finals had been played with defending champions JX Sunflowers beating Toyota Antelopes 76-65.

JX Sunflowers, based on that win and their No 1 status in the Regular Season were named the champions for the season.

Toyota Antelopes were named No 2 followed by Denso Iris.
Courtesy of: FIBA




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


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 22.1
 1. Krastina, LU22.1 
 2. Lisnere, Cesis20.2 
 3. Krumberga, TTT R.20.0 
 4. Hollingswort., TTT R.18.4 
 5. Jakobsone, Cesis17.8 
 6. Jakobsone, TTT Riga15.8 
 7. Egle, Daugavpils15.8 
 8. Teilane, RTU-Merks15.4 
 9. Surkusa, TTT J.15.3 
 10. Eibele, TTT Riga15.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Liga SURKUSA
  TTT Riga
  (192-C-91)
  Avg: 12
 1. Surkusa, TTT J.12.0 
 2. Teilane, RTU-Merks11.3 
 3. Lagzdina, TTT J.11.0 
 4. Lisnere, Cesis10.9 
 5. Hollingswort., TTT R.10.2 
 6. Geistarde-Z., Cesis10.0 
 7. Butler, TTT Riga9.5 
 8. Pavlovska, RTU-M.8.5 
 9. Nimane, TTT Riga8.4 
 10. Veidere, TTT K.8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Anda EIBELE
  TTT Riga
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Eibele, TTT Riga6.1 
 2. Jevsejeva, Dauga.4.4 
 3. Krastina, LU4.0 
 4. Karklina, TTT Riga3.8 
 5. Neimane, TTT J.3.4 
 6. Butler, TTT Riga3.0 
 7. Kazakevica, Dauga.2.8 
 8. Staugaitiene, TTT R.2.8 
 9. Sarja, TTT Juniores2.5 
 10. Krumberga, TTT R.2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Krastina, LU4.2 
 2. Karklina, TTT Riga3.4 
 3. Butler, TTT Riga2.9 
 4. Eibele, TTT Riga2.7 
 5. Krumberga, TTT R.2.7 
 6. Nimane, TTT Riga2.5 
 7. Kazakevica, Dauga.2.5 
 8. Bridina, TTT K.2.4 
 9. Zeltina, Cesis2.3 
 10. Purina, LU2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Anita TEILANE
  Satu Mare
  (196-C-85)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Teilane, RTU-Merks3.4 
 2. Veidere, TTT K.3.1 
 3. Surkusa, TTT J.2.2 
 4. Hollingswort., TTT R.1.7 
 5. Nimane, TTT Riga1.4 
 6. Geistarde-Z., Cesis1.3 
 7. Lisnere, Cesis1.2 
 8. Lazdeniece, RTU-M.1.2 
 9. Egle, Daugavpils1.1 
 10. Egle, Daugavpils1.1 


Best players of Latvian LSBL round 21 - by Eurobasket News
International forward Dita Krumberga (183-F-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader TTT Riga and that's her to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
The 26-year old forward had a double-double of 27 points and fifteen rebounds, while her team outclassed TTT Kadetes (#5, 10-16) with 53-point margin 100-47. It allowed TTT Riga to consolidate first place in the Latvian LSBL. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. The season is already in a full swing and TTT Riga still have not lost a single game, getting all 26 victories. Krumberga has many years of experience at TTT Riga, through which he has constantly improved. Mt.St.Mary's College, MD graduate has very impressive stats this year. Krumberga is in league's top in points (3rd best: 20.0ppg) and averages solid 2.7spg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 37-year old forward Ilze Dukate (183-F-73) of Cesis. Dukate impressed basketball fans with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Of course Cesis cruised to a 81-71 relatively comfortable win over the higher-ranked TTT Juniores (#4, 14-11). Cesis' 7th position in the standings has not changed. 21 lost games are too many comparing to just four victories Cesis managed to get this year. Dukate is one of the most experienced players at Cesis and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was another TTT Riga's star - Karline Nimane (188-F-90). Nimane scored 23 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). She was another key player of TTT Riga, helping her team with a 100-47 easy win against the lower-ranked TTT Kadetes (#5, 10-16). TTT Riga have amazing season winning all 26 games without a single defeat. Nimane turns to be one of the very best players in the league while he is also a leader of the top team having his eyes on the championship title. Nimane has a great season in Latvia. After 25 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 8.4rpg (9th best). She also has 2.5spg and 1.4bpg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lina Lisnere (192-F/C-86) of Cesis - 25 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Guna Lagzdina (182-C-93) of TTT Juniores - 22 points and 7 rebounds
6. Liga Surkusa (192-C-91) of TTT Riga - 11 points and 12 rebounds
7. Lina Lisnere (192-F/C-86) of Cesis - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Kristina Egle (177-F-86) of Daugavpils - 24 points, 15 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Paula Langina (179-F-94) of TTT Kadetes - 16 points and 7 rebounds
10. Inga Geistarde-Zaporozeca (178-F-78) of Cesis - 13 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists

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

*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA - Women  


Stats Leaders - LMKL
Points Per Game
 Santa OKOCKYTE
  LKKA-Aistes
  (176-G-92)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Okockyte, LK.18.5 
 2. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.16.9 
 3. Kinkeviciene, Laisve16.7 
 4. Aglinskaite, Laisve15.3 
 5. Briedyte, Utena15.0 
 6. Milieskiene, Lemmin.14.9 
 7. Daujadiene, Utena14.0 
 8. Aglinskaite, MRU13.8 
 9. Bimbaite, VICI K.13.7 
 10. Solopova, VICI K.13.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sandra BALIUTAVICIUTE
  Ruta Siauliai
  (182-F-81)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.10.8 
 2. Palaimaite, Utena9.9 
 3. Balciunaite, LKKA-.9.7 
 4. Aleksaite, MRU9.3 
 5. Grigalauskyt., Lemmin.8.7 
 6. Galdikaite, MRU8.6 
 7. Taraseviciut., Laisve8.5 
 8. Budryte, Laisve8.2 
 9. Kirstukaite, Utena7.5 
 10. Margeviciute, Lemmin.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Milda SAULIUTE
  VICI Kaunas
  (175-G-81)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Sauliute, VICI K.5.7 
 2. Kinkeviciene, Laisve5.7 
 3. Zygelyte, Lemminka.4.9 
 4. Daujadiene, Utena4.4 
 5. Bimbaite, VICI K.3.9 
 6. Pilypaitis, VICI K.3.8 
 7. Solopova, VICI K.3.6 
 8. Valentiene, VICI K.3.3 
 9. Okockyte, LK.3.3 
 10. Ziegyte, Utena2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Ligita KINKEVICIENE
  Laisve
  (173-G-76)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Kinkeviciene, Laisve3.4 
 2. Balciunaite, LKKA-.3.3 
 3. Bimbaite, VICI K.2.9 
 4. Solopova, VICI K.2.6 
 5. Milieskiene, Lemmin.2.5 
 6. Briedyte, Ruta S.2.3 
 7. Sauliute, VICI K.2.3 
 8. Pilypaitis, VICI K.2.2 
 9. Daujadiene, Utena2.2 
 10. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Kristina ALMINAITE
  VICI Kaunas
  (204-C-90)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Alminaite, VICI K.1.8 
 2. Palaimaite, Utena1.4 
 3. Paugaite, VICI K.1.4 
 4. Juceviciute, Utena1.3 
 5. Aleksaite, MRU1.2 
 6. Kirstukaite, Utena1.2 
 7. Budryte, Laisve1.0 
 8. Margeviciute, Lemmin.1.0 
 9. Kvederaviciu., Laisve0.9 
 10. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.0.9 


LMKL Round 27: Utena defeats LKKA-Aistes in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The most exciting game of round 27 in the LMKL took place in Kaunas. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of 4th placed LKKA-Aistes (9-14) to sixth ranked Utena (7-16) 63-62 on Friday evening. LKKA-Aistes was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 18-14 charge of Utena, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely LKKA-Aistes outrebounded Utena 39-23 including a 19-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Utena especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 53.3 percentage. It was a great evening for guard Asta Daujadiene (176-G-73) who led her team to a victory scoring 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Center Giedre Kirstukaite (190-86) helped adding 17 points. The best for the losing side was guard Santa Okockyte (176-92) with 21 points and 9 assists. LKKA-Aistes' coach Aurimas Jasilionis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Utena maintains sixth place with 7-16 record. LKKA-Aistes at the other side keeps the fourth position with 14 games lost. Utena are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Ruta Siauliai (#7) on the road in the next round. LKKA-Aistes will have a break next round.
Very significant was Lemminkainen's (#2, 15-7) victory against 3rd placed Laisve (14-10) 75-69. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Laisve. It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Rima Margeviciute (191-81, college: Liberty) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds. Egle Zygelyte accounted for 12 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists. The former international guard Ligita Kinkeviciene (173-76) came up with 16 points and 5 assists for Laisve in the defeat. Lemminkainen maintains second place with 15-7 record having eleven points less than leader VICI Kaunas. Laisve at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. Lemminkainen will play against MRU (#5) in Vilnius in the next round. Laisve will have a break next round.
LMKL top team - VICI Kaunas (24-0) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed fifth ranked MRU (8-15) in Vilnius 100-46. The best player for the winners was Ausra Bimbaite who scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Sarune Povilionyte who recorded 15 points. Undefeated VICI Kaunas have an impressive series of twenty four victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 24-0 record. Loser MRU keeps the fifth position with 15 games lost. VICI Kaunas will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. MRU will play against the league's second-placed Lemminkainen (#2) in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.


MRU - VICI Kaunas 46-100

LMKL top team - VICI Kaunas (24-0) had no problems winning another game on Friday. This time they crushed fifth ranked MRU (8-15) in Vilnius 100-46. The game without a history. VICI Kaunas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding MRU to just 6 points in third quarter. VICI Kaunas dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to MRU's 32. VICI Kaunas had a 36-25 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by MRU's players. The best player for the winners was the former international guard Ausra Bimbaite (179-82) who scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Canadian guard Courtnay Pilypaitis (185-88, college: Vermont) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. Four VICI Kaunas players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Sarune Povilionyte (182-88) who recorded 15 points and forward Neringa Bytautaite (182-87) added 4 points and 11 rebounds respectively. VICI Kaunas have an impressive series of twenty four victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 24-0 record. Loser MRU keeps the fifth position with 15 games lost. VICI Kaunas will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. MRU will play against the league's second-placed Lemminkainen (#2) in Klaipeda and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
MRU: S.Povilionyte 15+1reb+1ast, G.Sniokaite 10+2reb, E.Sniokaite 8+1reb+1ast, S.Martinkute 5+5reb+4ast, B.Linkeviciute 4+2reb+1ast, N.Bytautaite 4+11reb+1ast
VICI Kaunas: G.Paugaite 17+7reb, A.Bimbaite 17+7reb+7ast, C.Pilypaitis 16+6reb+3ast, L.Pikciute 14+6reb, A.Kemezys 13+5reb+1ast, V.Kuktiene 11+4reb
gschID: 119663


Laisve - Lemminkainen 69-75

Very significant was Lemminkainen's (#2, 15-7) victory against 3rd placed Laisve (14-10) 75-69. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Laisve. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Laisve won fourth quarter 20-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lemminkainen dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Laisve's 36. Lemminkainen forced 19 Laisve turnovers and outrebounded them 51-31 including 19 on the offensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Rima Margeviciute (191-81, college: Liberty) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds. The former international guard Egle Zygelyte (166-84) accounted for 12 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists for the winning side. The former international guard Ligita Kinkeviciene (173-76) came up with 16 points and 5 assists and forward Egle Taraseviciute (182-90) added 12 points and 8 rebounds respectively for Laisve in the defeat. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Lemminkainen maintains second place with 15-7 record having eleven points less than leader VICI Kaunas. Laisve at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. Lemminkainen will play against MRU (#5) in Vilnius in the next round. Laisve will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Laisve: L.Kinkeviciene 16+4reb+5ast, J.Budryte 13+6reb, L.Aglinskaite 12+4reb+2ast, E.Taraseviciute 12+8reb+1ast, M.Kvederaviciute 11+5reb+4ast, V.Tamuleviciute 5+2reb
Lemminkainen: R.Margeviciute 16+16reb, R.Milieskiene 13+3reb, M.Grigalauskyte 12+10reb, E.Zygelyte 12+8reb+9ast, G.Gutkauskaite 12+4reb+2ast, L.Povilonyte 6+6reb+1ast
gschID: 119664


LKKA-Aistes - Utena 62-63

The most exciting game of round 27 in the LMKL took place in Kaunas. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of 4th placed LKKA-Aistes (9-14) to sixth ranked Utena (7-16) 63-62 on Friday evening. LKKA-Aistes was trailing by 3 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 18-14 charge of Utena, which allowed them to win the game. Strangely LKKA-Aistes outrebounded Utena 39-23 including a 19-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Utena especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 53.3 percentage. It was a great evening for guard Asta Daujadiene (176-73) who led her team to a victory scoring 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Center Giedre Kirstukaite (190-86) helped adding 17 points. The best for the losing side was guard Santa Okockyte (176-92) with 21 points and 9 assists and forward Kriste Druskyte (181-92) scored 8 points and 8 rebounds. LKKA-Aistes' coach Aurimas Jasilionis rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Utena maintains sixth place with 7-16 record. LKKA-Aistes at the other side keeps the fourth position with 14 games lost. Utena are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Ruta Siauliai (#7) on the road in the next round. LKKA-Aistes will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
LKKA-Aistes: S.Okockyte 21+3reb+9ast, D.Saurazaite 10+1reb+1ast, L.Svaryte 10+5reb, K.Druskyte 8+8reb+1ast, J.Marmiene 4+3reb+1ast, I.Preskienyte 4+3reb
Utena: E.Briedyte 19+2ast, G.Kirstukaite 17+3reb+1ast, A.Daujadiene 14+5reb+4ast, A.Ziegyte 9+5reb+2ast, E.Juceviciute 4+3reb+1ast, K.Palaimaite 0+5reb+2ast
gschID: 119665




Standings - LMKL
LMKL Standings
 1. VICI Kaunas 24-0 
 2. Lemminkainen 15-7 
 3. Laisve 14-10 
 4. LKKA-Aistes 9-14 
 5. MRU 8-15 
 6. Utena 7-16 
 7. Ruta Siauliai 4-19 


*****************************************************
  NCAA1 - Women  


Purdue pursues tourney win for Mingo - by Eurobasket News
INDIANAPOLIS -- Four months ago, Drey Mingo lay unconscious on her apartment floor with an illness that gave her a 50 percent chance of survival.

On Sunday, the Purdue forward will lead her team into the NCAA tournament.

Its an awe-inspiring story, Purdue coach Sharon Versyp said. People said shed never play again. She said Im coming back.

Mingo will start when the Boilermakers (20-11) play Kansas State (21-10) in a First-Round game Sunday in Storrs, Conn. Its a stunning turn of events for Mingo, who was admitted to the hospital on Nov. 23 with bacterial meningitis.

Her life, then her career and then her hearing were at risk.

Basketball was the last thing I was thinking about, she said. Once all those issues were settled, it was about getting back in shape and getting back in the swing of things.

Shes playing like nothing happened. She averages 11.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game while shooting 51 percent from the field.

Its an act of God, her roommate, Purdue guard Antionette Howard said. For her now to be back at her full force and having such an impact on the game, its amazing, like a miracle.

The team was preparing for a tournament in Cancun, Mexico, when Mingo fell ill. The team had taken a bus to Indianapolis to board an airplane, but scuttled the plan after learning just how serious things were.

Once we got the call in the middle of the night, its not good, none of us wanted to go, said guard Brittany Rayburn (6'0''-G-90), the teams leading scorer. It was a pretty easy decision to go back. All of us were so concerned, and I dont think any of us would have wanted to leave her in that circumstance.

Mingo remained in the hospital for five days.

The kids were pretty much on edge, Versyp said. Hopeful, but they knew it was pretty serious. Fear of the unknown was the most heart-wrenching thing they could go through.

Mingo, a junior from Atlanta, averaged 17.3 points and 7.3 rebounds in the first four games of the season before heading to the hospital. Even though it was her first year with the program, she already had been named a captain.

It puts life in perspective. Everybody thinks its just about winning championships. This is about winning the game of life.
-- Sharon Versyp She was playing the best, Versyp said. She was the mental leader, the emotional leader. Shes just a really special young lady.

After canceling their trip to Mexico, the Boilermakers returned to the court on Dec. 2 to play Maryland, the school Mingo had transferred from. She sat on the sideline for a half, and the Boilermakers led by double digits before dropping a 56-55 decision to the No. 22 Terrapins.

They totally played for Drey, and they were totally devastated to not be able to win that for her, Versyp said.

Maryland coach Brenda Frese said her heart went out to Mingo.

I think in perspective, though, everyone in our locker room would give this game up if there was something we could do to help Drey Mingo and help her through the battle that she has ahead of her, Frese said that night.

Just 16 days later, Mingo returned to the court. She played 2 minutes against Auburn and had two points and a rebound.

When I did get on the court, I got a standing ovation in Conseco Fieldhouse, which will probably be the best moment I have in my career, she said. Absolutely blessed to be around all those people who helped me celebrate my life there.

From there, Versyp carefully monitored Mingos minutes. She said she treated the situation like a concussion. As Mingos conditioning improved and she began regaining the weight she lost, she wanted Versyp to see her as a normal player again.

When Drey finally said, Coach, I dont want to be treated any differently, start yelling, I told her after Christmas, Im going to start yelling at her, start getting after her, she said. After that, things started getting back to normal.

Mingo said she expected to return.

I have always had an amazing group of people behind me supporting me throughout the illness, never thought that I wouldnt be back, she said. It was just a matter of time when I would be back. I never doubted.

She didnt feel fully recovered until February, but her team has noticed the difference now that shes back. She is 6-foot-2 with post skills, a steady jumper and the ball-handling ability of a guard.

Drey adds so much to our team, its ridiculous, Howard said.

The only permanent change for her is that she lost much of her hearing and will wear a hearing aid for the rest of her life. She cant wear the device on the court, so her teammates often use hand signals to communicate with her.

Everyone did everything they could to make sure I was comfortable 100 percent of the time, she said.

Versyp said the she has learned from the ordeal.

It puts life in perspective, she said. Everybody thinks its just about winning championships. This is about winning the game of life. Everybody worries about the small things, but it helps you understand the small things are a really small part of things when it comes to something like this.

Versyp said this season has been unforgettable, and the trip to the NCAA tournament, considering the circumstances, makes it extra special.

This will be one of the most memorable times, she said. When you look back to a group or a season, when you say when did you do your best coaching job, or what is the one that stuck out, this will always be the one that will never be forgotten.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com

WNIT Daily Roundup - by Eurobasket News
Video Subheadline: Utah State nets first postseason win since 1977

Utah State 103, Arizona 95 -- Box Score

LOGAN, Utah -- Utah State made history in several ways in its 103-95 win in the First Round of the Womens National Invitation Tournament at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum Thursday. The win was the Aggies first WNIT victory and first postseason win since a 90-74 victory against Northern Colorado in the AIAW Championship in 1977.

The 103 points was the most points scored by the Aggies since a 96-39 win against Southern Idaho in 1984. It was also the first time that USU scored 100 points since Utah State beat New Mexico State 105-98 on Feb. 20, 1982.

Illinois State 72, Central Michigan 59 -- Box Score

NORMAL, Ill. -- Illinois State advanced to the second round of the WNIT for the third consecutive year Thursday night as the Redbirds beat Central Michigan 72-59 on Doug Collins Court at Redbird Arena. ISU (21-10) remained undefeated at home in 2011, extending its home-court win streak to a program-best 15 consecutive games.

ISU's defense held Central Michigan to its second-lowest point total of the season, forcing the Chippewas to commit 23 turnovers. Illinois State also teamed up to block eight shots, which tied for the second-most blocks by the Redbirds in a WNIT game. ISU shot 48 percent from the field, while Central Michigan shot 29 percent.

Duquesne 64, Kent State 56 -- Box Score

PITTSBURGH -- For the first time in program history, Duquesne earned a post-season victory after its 64-56 win against Kent State in the opening round of the 2011 Women's National Invitation Tournament.

Vanessa Abel led the Dukes (23-8) with 18 points. Alex Gensler (5'11''-F-90) scored 16 and Orsi Szecsi added 13 for DU who recorded its sixth win this season against a school from the Mid-American Conference.

Jamilah Humes led all scorers with 23 points and Ellie Shields recorded a double-double of 11 points and 11 rebounds. Taisja Jones added 15 for the Golden Flashes whose season ends with a record of 20-10.

Missouri State 76, Rice 65 -- Box Score

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- The Missouri State Lady Bears used a 15-2 scoring run to take control of their opening round game in the Women's National Invitation Tournament against Rice en route to a 76-65 victory Thursday evening at JQH Arena. MSU scored the final seven points of the first half and eight of the first 10 of the second to turn the tide for good against the Owls.

After Rice battled back to cut the Missouri State lead down to two points in the closing minutes, the Lady Bears again cranked up its offense with a 13-4 game-ending spurt to lock up their 24th victory of the season.

Oral Roberts 78, TCU 74 -- Box Score

Fort Worth, Texas -- Oral Roberts tipped off WNIT action in style, advancing to the Second Round for the first time since 1982-83 with a 78-74 victory against a tough TCU squad Thursday evening at Daniel-Meyer Coliseum.

Jordan Pyle (6'1''-F-90) led the way for the Golden Eagles, posting her 11th double-double of the year with 20 points and 13 boards, while shooting 10-14 from the floor and snagging four steals.

St. Bonaventure 77, Lehigh 43 -- Box Score

ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y. -- Jessica Jenkins hit five 3-pointers and scored a game-high 20 points as St. Bonaventure (21-11) led from start to finish, securing a 77-43 win against Lehigh (21-11) in the First Round of the Women's National Invitation Tournament Thursday night.

The Bonnies advance to the Second Round for the third consecutive year, and did so by defeating the Mountain Hawks in convincing fashion. The 34-point win is Bonaventure's largest of the season, and largest in any of its six WNIT games.

Syracuse 77, Monmouth 53 -- Box Score

Sophomore center Kayla Alexander led all scorers with 26 points, including the first seven of the game for the Orange, as Syracuse beat Monmouth 77-53 in the First Round of the WNIT at the Carrier Dome. Syracuse improved its record to 23-9 and is now 18-2 at home this season. The Orange has won 40 consecutive nonconference home games. The victory improves Syracuses WNIT record to 5-2 in the past three tournaments.

Syracuse shot 54.7 from the field, marking the third consecutive game it has hit better than 40 percent from the field. It is the Oranges second-best shooting performance this season. SU shot 55.9 percent against Saint Francis in December. SU outscored Monmouth 26-4 in the paint and 14-2 on second chance points.

Eastern Michigan 67, Michigan 59 -- Box Score

YPSILANTI, Mich. -- Eastern Michigan was not ready to end its season and the Eagles came up with an outstanding effort on both ends of the court to post a thrilling 67-59 win against Michigan on Thursday in the Convocation Center.

The Eagles won the battle of Washtenaw County by holding the visitors to just 38.7 percent from the field, hitting just 24-of-62 attempts, forcing 19 turnovers, making 25-of-63 field goals for 39.7 percent while also making 8-of-21 3-point attempts for 38.1 percent.

UNC-Wilmington 63, Richmond 54 -- Box Score

RICHMOND, Va. -- Senior Brittany Blackwell (6'1''-G/F-89) scored 14 points to lead five Seahawk players in double figures as UNCW defeated Richmond 63-54 in the First Round of the postseason Women's National Invitation Tournament Thursday at the Robins Center.

In the first meeting between the two former Colonial Athletic Association rivals since the 2000-01 season, the Seahawks improved to 24-8 and advanced to the Second Round of the Postseason WNIT, where they will face Eastern Michgan Monday at 7 p.m. at Trask Coliseum. Richmond slipped to 18-13 as it saw its season come to a close.

Blackwell highlighted a balanced UNCW attack that finished the game shooting 39.6 percent from the field, highlighted by a 44.4 percent effort from the floor in the final 20 minutes. Senior Martha White, junior Kristen Hanzer, sophomore Jessica Freeman (5'6''-G) and freshman Alisha Andrews all pitched in 10 points while White added a game-high eight rebounds.

Auburn 68, Tennessee Tech 54 -- Box Score

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. -- Down seven points early in the second half, Auburn (15-16) responded with an 11-3 run to take a lead it would not give up in a 68-54 win at Tennessee Tech (23-8) in the First Round of the WNIT.

Auburn scored the last 11 points of the game, including a 7-of-8 mark from the free-throw line in the last 1:06 to secure the win. Senior Alli Smalley scored a team-high 17 points, leading four Tigers in double figures.

Boston College 85, Yale 61 -- Box Score

New Haven, Conn. -- Seniors Jaclyn Thoman and Stefanie Murphy (6'4''-F) combined for 43 points as Boston College defeated Yale 85-61 at the John J. Lee Amphitheater in the First Round of the WNIT Tournament. Boston College improves to 19-12 on the season, while Yale finishes the season at 14-15.

Thoman had 15 points in the first half and finished with 23 points. Murphy had 18 points and seven boards while freshman Korina Chapman added nine points off the bench. Senior Carolyn Swords finished with nine points and 11 rebounds, as she fouled out early in the second half.

St. Josephs 72, VCU 66 -- Box Score

PHILADELPHIA -- Following a first half that saw neither team lead by more than four points, the Hawks used momentum from the end of the first stanza to open a nine-point gap quickly. Saint Joseph's used a 9-0 run that spanned both halves to break a 27-27 tie and give SJU a 36-27 lead on a pair of free throws by junior Michelle Bakerat the 18:38 mark.

The Hawks (20-11) kept the Rams at a distance, opening a 14-point lead 51-37 on a 3-pointer by senior Dominique Bryant with 12:01 to go.

Down 62-52 with under 5 minutes to play, VCU fought back to make it a 62-58 game on a jumper by Courtney Hurt at the 2:54 mark.

Virginia 69, Morgan State 56 -- Box Score

CHARLOTTESVILLE -- Virginia built an early lead and held on for a 69-56 victory against visiting Morgan State Thursday night in the First Round of the Women's National Invitation Tournament (WNIT).

With the victory, Virginia's record improved to 17-15. Morgan State's final record is 17-15.

In the first half, Virginia's lead at times ballooned to as many as 16 points, but Morgan State pulled to within 11 points, 38-27, at the 1:34 mark on a 3-pointer by Brittany Dodson. UVa responded by going on a 5-0 run to end the half and take a 43-27 lead.

Arkansas 91, Lamar 65 -- Box Score

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- Arkansas used a 14-0 run and held Lamar scoreless for more than 7 minutes in the first half en route to a 91-65 win in the First Round of the WNIT Tournament in Bud Walton Arena Thursday.

Sophomore Sarah Watkins was well on the way to a double-double with 15 points and seven rebounds in the first half leading Arkansas to a 51.5 shooting percentage on a 17-for-33 performance. Watkins finished with a career-best 25 points and 14 rebounds getting her sixth double-double of the year.

Northwestern 89, Creighton 63 -- Box Score

EVANSTON, Ill. -- Backed by 21 points from Kendall Hackney and a 55 percent shooting effort, Northwestern (19-13) cruised to a 89-63 victory against Creighton Thursday night in opening round WNIT action at Welsh-Ryan Arena.

Senior Amy Jaeschke registered her 15th double-double of the season with 16 points and 12 rebounds while Meshia Reed added 16 as well.

Tulane 61, Southern 31 -- Box Score

NEW ORLEANS -- Sophomore Olivia Grayson (5'8''-G) had 12 points and the Green Wave defense forced 22 turnovers as Tulane defeated Southern 61-31 in the opening round of the 2011 WNIT Thursday evening in Fogelman Arena.

The Green Wave tallied 12 steals and 11 blocks on the night while holding the Lady Jags to a 16.9 field goal percentage (12-of-71). With the win, Tulane improves to 23-10 on the year and advances to take on Oral Roberts in the Second Round of the WNIT.

Colorado 71, UC Riverside 62 -- Box Score

BOULDER -- Colorado opened a 19-point lead early in the second half, but had to hold on to eliminate UC-Riverside 71-62 Thursday night and advance to the Second Round of the WNIT.

Senior Brittany Spears and sophomore Chucky Jeffery each had a double-double to lead the Buffs. Spears scored 18 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, while Jeffery added 19 and 12.

California 74, Cal Poly 60 -- Box Score

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. -- California opened up the 2011 Women's National Invitation Tournament with a 74-60 victory against the Cal Poly Mustangs in San Luis Obispo. Talia Caldwell had her eighth double-double of the season with 12 points and 17 rebounds.

Talia Caldwell had her eighth double-double of the season with 12 points and 17 rebounds, including 8 offensive rebounds. Layshia Clarendon had her fourth 20-point game of the season with 20 points. Afure Jemerigbe (6'0''-G) had 15 points, going 6-for-8 from the field.

Southern California 67, UC Santa Barbara 64 -- Box Score

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- USC tightened up its defense and finally regrouped late in the game for a comeback to win its WNIT First Round game against visiting UC Santa Barbara 67-64 on Thursday night at the Galen Center.

The Trojans got into an 11-point hole in the second half before climbing out of it and taking the lead for good in the final 6:20 of action. The victory improves USC to 20-12 overall and puts the Trojans on a path to the WNIT Second Round for a 2 p.m. game at Nevada on Sunday (March 20) in Reno.

Nevada 65, St. Marys (Calif.) 62 -- Box Score

MORAGA, Calif. -- Nevada picked up its first-ever victory in the post-season, winning at Saint Mary's 65-62 in the First Round of the 2011 Women's National Invitational Tournament. Nevada continued to build on its school record for wins, improving to 22-10 while Saint Mary's finishes its season at 19-13.

The game was a bitterly fought battle throughout as there were 10 ties and 13 lead changes. The Pack shot 42.9 percent from the field and 44.4 percent from beyond the arc while holding the Gaels to 29.6 percent and 23.5 from beyond the arc. The Pack tied a season-low with 11 turnovers while collecting six blocks and six steals.

BYU 75, Denver 60 -- Box Score

PROVO, Utah -- In a game between two teams hoping to keep their seasons alive, the BYU Cougars soundly defeated the Denver Pioneers 75-60 Thursday at the Marriott Center.

Senior Mindy Bonham led the way for BYU with a season-high 23 points while also grabbing five boards. Three other Cougars scored in double digits, with Coriann Fraughton contributing 18, Kirsten Riley 11 and Jennifer Hamson 11.

Alabama 80, Memphis 69 -- Box Score

MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Senior Tierney Jenkins and junior Ericka Russell (5'7''-G-89) combined for 41 points as the women's basketball team (17-14) took down Memphis (21-13) 80-69 on Thursday night in the First Round of the Women's National Invitation Tournament at Elma Roane Fieldhouse.

Jenkins led three Alabama players in double figures with 21 points. She was followed by Russell, who added 20, and senior LaToya King, who chipped in 14. The Tide is now 15-1 when three or more players record double-digit points in the game.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com



Michigan Tech takes third crown - by Eurobasket News
Michigan Tech Athletics
Michigan Tech became the first team to win three consecutive NCAA Division II Women's Basketball Midwest Regional titles with a 69-57 victory against Wisconsin-Parside on Monday at the SDC Gym. The Huskies received double-digit scoring efforts from four players to improve to 29-2 overall and advance to next week's Elite Eight.

Tech led by as many 17 points in the contest, but held off a late Ranger run to come away victorious.

'What a fantastic ending to a game,' said coach Kim Cameron . 'Give Parkside credit. They didn't give up and made a run like we knew they would. I'm so proud of my team and how they kept their composure.'

Michigan Tech led by 14 with less than nine minutes to play before UWP (24-7) scored eight consecutive points to close within 57-51 at the five-minute mark. Lisa Staehlin then went to work in the post, making a nice move for a layup to push the margin back to eight.

Jadee Rooney hit a layup after an offensive rebound on the next trip down the floor to cut it down to six. The Huskies proceeded to go 10 of 12 from the free throw line with no turnovers in the final four minutes. Tech also turned up the defensive intensity in holding the Rangers to just one field goal on their final seven attempts.

Tech used its lethal 1-2 punch in the post again tonight with a team-high 17 points coming from Staehlin and 12 more from Lynn Giesler (6'1''-C). Both players made the all-tournament team. Staehlin was 8 of 8 from the field while Giesler went 6 of 11 to help the Huskies outscore UWP 32-26 in the paint.

Lucy Dernovsek had 13 points, eight rebounds and three each of assists, blocks and steals. She was the third Huskies player named to the all-tournament team and also became Tech's single-season blocks leader during the contest (66).

Sam Hoyt (5'5''-G) was the fourth Husky in double figures with 12.

Rooney tallied a game-high 20 points for the Rangers. She and Quincy senior Courtney Shuman (5'11''-F-89) were the other two players named to the all-tournament team.

Tech battled through some early nerves and a 7-4 deficit by hitting back-to-back 3-pointers for a 10-7 lead four minutes into the game. The margin grew to 22-11 as the hosts' defense limited UWP to four points during a nine-minute span.

The Huskies went into halftime up 35-20. The gap remained at 13 or more in the second half until Parkside's run.

As opposed to Saturday night's semifinal vs. Drury where Michigan Tech drained 11 3-pointers, the Huskies had to rely on its interior presence. The Black and Gold made just 3-of-11 attempts from behind the arc but still shot 53 percent from the field.

UW-Parkside was held just under 40 percent from the field. The difference in field goal shooting was the difference in the final score.

Michigan Tech built upon several streaks it had coming into the game. The Huskies have now won a school-record-tying 16 consecutive games overall, 32 consecutive home games and nine consecutive Midwest Regional games.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com

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  NCAA2 - Women  


Clayton St. sets league record for wins - by Eurobasket News
Clayton State Athletics
No. 2-ranked Clayton State used a 14-0 run midway through the second half to pull away from No. 6 Lander for a 76-60 victory in the NCAA Division II Southeast Regional championship game on Monday night at the Athletics and Fitness Center.

Top-seeded Clayton State (32-1) advances to the Elite Eight to be held in St. Joseph, Mo., on March 22-23 and 25. Second-seeded Lander ends it best season ever at 29-4. The 32 victories by Clayton State is the most in a season by a Peach Belt Conference womens program.

Kayla Mobley led the Lakers with a game-high 21 points on 8-of-9 shooting from the floor, including one 3, and 4 of 5 free throws. Teshymia Tillman (5'9''-F/G-86), the tournament MVP, added 19 points while hitting 8-of-14 field-goal attempts, including 3-of-4 3-pointers, and Drameka Griggs netted 12.

Lander, which outrebounded Clayton State 35-22 was led by Brittni Johnsons 14 points. Johnson made 5 of 14 field goals, including two 3s, and 2 of 4 free throws. Shannon McKever, Tasheba Butler (5'9''-F) and Mukia Myrick all scored 10 points. Butler led the team in rebounds with seven.

Joining Tillman on the all-tournament team were Landers Johnson and Ciara Lyons, Clayton States Drameka Griggs, Bartons Janetta Robinson and USC Aikens Kayla Harris.

With 9:53 left in the game and holding a 49-44 lead, Tillmans 3-pointer ignited a 14-0 run that gave Clayton a 63-45 cushion at 7:21. Tillmans 3 was followed by a Latonda Bruce three-point play, three more Tillman steals that she converted into layups and two Bruce free throws.

Lander closed the gap to 11 points at 70-59 with 1:30 left on a three-point play by McKever but that was as close as it would get.

After ties at 2-2 and 4-4 to open the game, Clayton State scored seven unanswered points on two pointers by Tillman and Griggs and a three-point play by Tanisha Woodard to take an 11-6 lead at 16:23.

Lander bounced back with its own 7-0 run on field goals by Lyons and Tasheba Butler and a three by Johnson to take a 13-11 advantage at 15:06.

The Lakers went back ahead at 16-13 on a 3 by Tillman and a 2 by Kayla Mobley.

Lander went on another 7-0 run to make it 22-16 at 7:16 on a two by Johnson and Lyons, a Johnson free throw and back-to-back layups by Lyons and Mukia Myrick.

Again, Clayton answered with yet another 7-0 run on a layup by Woodard and a field goal and 3-pointer by Mobley to take a 23-22 lead at 3:32. After Landers Myrick put back an offensive rebound and the Lady Bearcats got a 3 from Lyons to go up 27-25, Clayton State ended the half with a 7-2 run to take a 32-29 lead to the lockerroom.

The Lakers opened the second half with a 12-2 run on a pair of baskets by Shacamra Jackson and one each by Breanna Fort (6'0''-F/C-88), Mobley, Woodard and Brittany Hall to take a 44-31 lead at 15:44.

Lander finally scored its first point in five minutes when Myrick hit the second of two free throws trim the lead to 44-32 at 14:37. Johnson followed with two layups to cut it to 44-36 at 13:34.

McKevers bucket at 11:51 cut it to 47-40 and Brianna Webbs three at 10:21 cut it to 49-45.

Clayton State connected on 29-of-53 field-goal attempts for 54.7 percent, including 4-of-12 three-point tries. The Lakers sank 14 of 18 free throws.

Lander made 23-of-54 floor shots, including 4-of-13 3s for 30.8 percent.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com

Bentley earns return trip to Elite Eight - by Eurobasket News
Bentley Athletics
Bentley rallied past Pace 64-61 to earn its first trip to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight since 2003.

Senior guard and Regional Most Outstanding Player Kim Brennan (5'8''-G) made big plays to lead the Falcons in the final minute of the NCAA Division II East Region championship game Tuesday night at the Dana Center. Brennan scored the games final seven points to erase a 61-57 Setter lead and also came up with a key steal to carry the 15th-ranked Falcons to the win.

The regional championship was the 11th for Stevens and the Falcons since 1989, and earned the Falcons a return trip to St. Joseph, Mo., coincidentally the site of the Elite Eight when Bentley made its most recent trip.

Ive been doing this for a while, said coach Barbara Stevens , a Womens Basketball Hall of Famer who recorded her 821st career victory. And this was certainly one of the most dramatic wins that Ive been a part of.

With her team down 61-57 with 38.1 seconds left after the Setters reeled off six points in a row, the Falcons fifth all-time leading scorer drove to the basket for a lay-up. Brennan was fouled on the play and completed the three-point play with the free throw, drawing the Falcons to within one with 32.4 seconds left.

Brennan picked off a pass on the ensuing Pace possession and sank a go-ahead 12-footer off the fast break with 12 seconds remaining, putting Bentley up 62-61. That was the 14th lead change of the night, the eighth in the second half.

Senior forward Brittany Huggins, Paces top scorer with 25 points, missed a short jumper and Brennan collected the rebound with about two seconds left. She was immediately fouled, and made both from the stripe with 0.8 seconds left to essentially lock up the regional crown.

Bentley took control fairly early in the game, using an extended 20-7 run to open a 26-14 lead with 3:07 left in the first half. Eleven of the Falcons first 17 points came off turnovers, and that run included six points from freshman forward Lauren Battista and a 3-pointer and a drawn charge by Brennan.

Pace closed to within four with a late 8-0 run, the final four scored by Huggins, but a Battista basket with about six seconds left sent the Falcons into the break up six, 28-22. Battista and Brennan led the first-half scoring with eight and seven points, respectively.

After the two teams traded baskets over the first five minutes of the second half, Pace ran off seven in a row, five by Huggins and a put back by sophomore forward Brittany Shields to grab a 36-35 lead.

Bentley had a 7-0 run of its own to reclaim a 47-41 lead. Sophomore guard Courtney Finn nailed a 3 from the right corner, Finn followed with a reverse lay-up and junior guard Katherine Goodwin went coast-to-coast for a lay-up after a steal.

Pace came right back, countering with a 10-2 spurt to regain a two-point advantage at 51-49, with 5:51 left. Huggins nailed a top-of-the-key 3 and junior guard Kerri White finished it with a three-point play after a steal.

Bentley would tie the game three times over the next two minutes, twice on free throws by freshman forward Jacqui Brugliera (6'0''-F) and a driving lay-up by Brennan that made it 55-all. Two more Brugliera free throws with 3:03 on the clock made it a two-point Falcon lead.

Pace (24-9) came back to tie the game on a lay-up by junior forward Maral Javadifar with 2:36 on the clock and took a 59-57 lead when Huggins knocked down a 13-footer with 1:50 left. It stayed that way until Javadifar hit a short jumper with 38.1 seconds left, making it a four-point game and setting the stage for Brennans heroics.

Brugliera led the Falcons with 21 points, with nearly half of her points coming from the foul line where she was 10 of 11. Brennan finished with 16 points and two steals, and Finn was the teams other double-figure scorer with 11 points, along with a team-best six rebounds.

Huggins, an all-tournament selection, led Pace with 25 points, and Shields followed with 14 points and 10 rebounds.

Bentley had a slight advantage in field goal percentage (44.7 to 43.3), but a big edge at the line. The Falcons were almost perfect at the stripe, hitting 17 of 18, while Pace attempted only five, making three.

Bentley will open Elite Eight play next Tuesday with a 1 p.m. ET game against 32-1 Clayton State.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com

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  NCAA3 - Women  


Ill. Wesleyan nets massive comeback - by Eurobasket News
Illinois Wesleyan Athletics
Two free throws by senior Nikki Preston with 4.1 seconds left gave Illinois Wesleyan its only lead of the game after trailing by as many as 23 in the first half and sent the Titan women, for the first time ever, into the NCAA Division III Women's Basketball Final Four after a 61-60 come-from-behind win against George Fox on Saturday.

Illinois Wesleyan (27-4) will meet defending national champion Washington U. (24-5) in one semifinal game while Amherst (30-1), who was also a Final Four participant in 2010, will play Christopher Newport (29-3) in the other semifinal game. The games will be at 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday, March 18, and it will be announced later in which order they will be played.

The third place game will be at 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 19 with the title game at 7 p.m.

In the sectional championship win against George Fox, the Titans were trailing 16-0 and missed their first 14 shots from the field before scoring for the first time with 11:41 to play in the first half on an Olivia Lett basket.

IWU trailed by a 27-4 score with 5:04 to go in the first period before closing the half on a 17-6 run to close to 33-21 behind at intermission. Two 3-pointers in the final minute by sophomore Melissa Gardner fueled the comeback.

The Titans, who outscored George Fox by a 40-27 score in the second half, closed to within four points at 60-56 on a layup basket by Preston with 1:13 to go and, after a turnover, Preston knocked in a 3-pointer with 45 seconds to play got IWU within one point at 60-59.

IWU was 24 of 60 (40.0) from the field, made seven of 26 3-point efforts (26.9) and hit six of 10 free throws (60.0).

Preston and Gardner led IWU with 10 points each while the Titans got eight points each from Lett, senior Hope Schulte, junior Brittany Hasselbring (5'7''-G-90) and freshman Shelby Jackson (6'0''-F), who also led the team with five rebounds.

The Bruins, who shot 51.1 percent (23 of 45) from the field for the game, were led by the 19 points and nine rebounds of 6-foot-5 center Hannah Munger (6'5''-C). George Fox was two of seven from the 3-point zone and made 12 of 17 free throws.

Swarming defense helped Illinois Wesleyan force 24 Bruin turnovers while IWU committed 15 turnovers. The Titans were outrebounded, 35-27.
Courtesy of: www.ncaa.com



Top-notch national semifinal field set - by Eurobasket News
The final four for the Division III Women's Basketball Championship is set. Christopher Newport faces Amherst in the first semifinal, at 6 p.m. ET in Bloomington, Ill., on Friday. Defending champion Washington University at St. Louis is still alive and will face Illinois Wesleyan in the second semifinal.

Washington U. advanced by handing Thomas More its first loss of the season in the regional semifinal 72-53, then topped Chicago 63-58 in Saturdays regional final. The host school for the Division III championship, Illinois Wesleyan survived a pair of close games to advance. In the regional semifinal, Olivia Lett scored a career-high 28 points in a 77-74 win against Coe College. The Titans then took their only lead of the game with 4.1 seconds remaining against George Fox after trailing by as many as 23 points in the first half. Illinois Wesleyan is making its first national semifinals appearance.

On the other side of the bracket, Christopher Newport posted an 80-76 win against Kean and dispatched host Lebanon Valley 62-50 to advance to Bloomington. This is also the first national semifinals appearance in Christopher Newport history.

With Thomas More out of the field, the highest-ranked team remaining in the field is No. 2 Amherst. The Lord Jeffs played at home last weekend, defeating Muhlenberg by a comfortable 79-60 margin, before eliminating the last undefeated team in the field with a 68-49 win against Babson. Amherst is making its third consecutive appearance in the Division III Final Four.

Need to Know
Seven of the Division II Elite Eight teams are set. Teams will resume play on Tuesday, March 22, at the St. Joseph Civic Arena in St. Joseph, Mo. Four top seeds advanced, including Arkansas Tech, Michigan Tech, Cal Poly Pomona and Clayton State. In the East Region, top-seeded Bentley plays Pace at 6 p.m. Tuesday for the final spot in the Elite Eight. The matchups on March 22 will feature Metro State vs. Shaw, Arkansas Tech vs. Michigan Tech, Northwester Missouri State vs. Cal Poly Pomona and the Bentley/Pace winner vs. Clayton State.

Eighth-seeded Shaw is the lowest ranked team to advance to the Division II Elite Eight. The Lady Bears hadnt practiced since their conference tournament due to illnesses within the team, but marched through their region with a 72-51 win against host and top seed Edinboro, a 70-63 win against No. 5 seed California (Pa.) and a 74-54 win against No. 2 seed Johnson C. Smith.

Wisconsin-Green Bay is the No. 5 seed in the Dallas regional and enters the tournament with a 32-1 record and Horizon League regular-season and tournament championships under its belt. The Phoenix seniors own a 115-16 record in their career entering NCAA Tournament play. Green Bay and Connecticut are two of the 14 teams all time to enter the NCAA Tournament with at least 30 wins and one or fewer losses. Of the previous 12 teams in that category, 10 made the Final Four. All of them made the Sweet 16.

Northwest Missouri State, the second seed in the Division II South Central Regional, advanced to the Division II Elite Eight with an 82-70 win over Central Oklahoma in the Regional final. Gabby Curtis was named the regionals Most Outstanding Player. Top seed and host school Northeastern State had been ousted by No. 5 seed Central Oklahoma in the second round, 68-60.

In Russellville, Ark., Arkansas Tech defeated Delta State in the Division II South Region final for a second consecutive season, this year with a final score of 85-77. ATUs Jenny Vining was named the Regions Outstanding Player.

There was nearly a second No. 8 seed to advance to the Division II Elite Eight, as second seed Metro State had to overcome an early deficit against eighth seed Adams State to capture the Central Region Championship. Metro State is now 30-2 on the season, sealing the first 30-win campaign in Roadrunners history.

Quick Hits
Michigan Tech became the first team to win three consecutive Division II Midwest Regional titles with a 69-57 win against Wisconsin-Parkside on Monday night.

Connecticut, Tennessee, Baylor and Stanford are the four No. 1 seeds in the Division I Tournament as announced on Monday night.

The Dallas and Spokane Division I Regionals have the potential for a fourth meeting between the top two teams in their respective conferences. In Dallas, top seed and Big 12 champion Baylor could meet second seed Texas A&M for a fourth time this season while in Spokane, Pac-10 champion Stanford could meet third seed UCLA for a fourth time this year

In a No. 1 vs. 2 seed matchup in Pomona, Calif., Cal Poly Pomona earned the Division II West Region title with a 68-61 win against Grand Canyon on Monday. CPP senior Reyana Colson led all players with 28 points and earned Most Outstanding Player honors.

Stanford won three of the four Pac-10 media awards with Jeanette Pohlen (6'0''-G) as Player of the Year, Chiney Ogwumike (6'3''-F) as Freshman of the Year and Tara VanDerveer as Coach of the Year. USC junior Briana Gilbreath (6'1''-G-90) earned Defensive Player of the Year honors to break up the sweep.

Fifth-seeded Utah topped second-seed TCU by a 52-47 margin in overtime to capture the Mountain West Tournament Championship. Utah is a 15 seed in the Dayton region while TCU will play in the WNIT.
Courtesy of: Amy Hughes, NCAA.com



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  SERBIA - Women  


Standings - Women
A League Stage Two Standings
SuperLeague
 1. Hemofarm 9-0 
 2. Partizan 8-1 
 3. Radivoj Korac 6-3 
 4. Vojvodina 4-5 
 5. Vozdovac 3-6 
 6. Crvena Zvezda 2-7 
 7. Spartak 2-7 
 8. Celarevo 2-7 
Places 9-13
 1. Kovin 8-8 
 2. Proleter 5-11 
 3. Student 5-11 
 4. Loznica 4-12 
 5. Radnicki KG 3-13 
Stage One Standings


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


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Teja OBLAK
  Hit K.Gora
  (172-G-90)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Oblak, Hit K.Gora20.9 
 2. Kure, AJM Maribor19.2 
 3. Turcinovic, Merkur C.18.4 
 4. Mikic, Grosuplje18.1 
 5. Komplet, Hit K.16.9 
 6. Baric, Merkur C.16.5 
 7. Skof, Ilrija15.0 
 8. Dover, AJM Maribor14.6 
 9. Trebec, Hit K.Gora14.5 
 10. Baltic, AJM M.14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ajda GABROVSEK
  Odeja KED
  (188-C-84)
  Avg: 14.1
 1. Gabrovsek, Odeja K.14.1 
 2. Turcinovic, Merkur C.12.0 
 3. Skof, Ilrija9.4 
 4. Baltic, AJM M.8.3 
 5. Macura, Jezica8.3 
 6. Ljubenovic, Triglav8.3 
 7. Vene, Ilrija7.7 
 8. Zdolsek, Triglav7.1 
 9. Furman, AJM M.7.0 
 10. Klancnik, GVT K.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Nika BARIC
  Merkur Celje
  (169-G-92)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Baric, Merkur C.5.8 
 2. Oberc, Ilrija4.4 
 3. Panic, Hit K.Gora4.3 
 4. Jurse, Kozmetik.4.1 
 5. Oblak, Hit K.Gora3.9 
 6. Kolman, Grosuplje3.4 
 7. Abramovic, Merkur C.2.8 
 8. Radulovic, Hit K.2.8 
 9. Zdolsek, Triglav2.8 
 10. Duric, Triglav2.6 
Steals Per Game
 Maja DROZG
  AJM Maribor
  (179-F/C-81)
  Avg: 4
 1. Drozg, AJM Maribor4.0 
 2. Oblak, Odeja KED3.6 
 3. Gabrovsek, Jezica2.9 
 4. Oblak, Hit K.Gora2.8 
 5. Abramovic, Merkur C.2.8 
 6. Zalar, Ilrija2.7 
 7. Oberc, Ilrija2.6 
 8. Turcinovic, Merkur C.2.5 
 9. Klancnik, GVT K.2.4 
 10. Bosilj, Merkur Celje2.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Ajda GABROVSEK
  Odeja KED
  (188-C-84)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Gabrovsek, Odeja K.1.4 
 2. Pavli, Jezica1.0 
 3. Srot, GVT Konjice0.7 
 4. Baltic, AJM M.0.6 
 5. Klancnik, GVT K.0.6 
 6. Gjerkes, Grosuplje0.6 
 7. Macura, Jezica0.5 
 8. Furman, AJM M.0.5 
 9. Vene, Ilrija0.5 
 10. Zdovc, GVT Konjice0.4 


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA - Women  


Winnus and S-Birds won the Semifinal openers - by Eurobasket News
Winnus and S-Birds won the Semifinal openers over their opponents to take 1-0 records in the series. S-Birds rolled over Cool Cats 101:82 taking 23-15 lead after the first period. Moreover they produced 29-20 in the second quarter and added 29-21 in the third. Kim Dan-Bi (180-F-90) poured in 27 points for the winners and Kang Young-Sook (187-C-81) collected 19 points and 10 rebounds. Kim Jung-Eun (180-F-87) responded with 25 points and 6 rebounds in the losing effort.
The second Semifinal was even interesting as Winnus grabbed 68:67 win over Bichumi in the last seconds. The latter won the opening quarter 20-18 and then both teams exchanged 16 points in the second frame. Bichumi also won the third period 21-15 and had 8-point advantage after 30 minutes, Winnus however did not give up and after 19-10 in the last frame and took the important road win. Sin Jung-Ja (185-C-80) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 12 rebounds, while Lee Kyung-Eun (176-G-87) scored 17. Seon Su-Min (180-F-78) and Roberson Kim (178-G/F-86, college: Indiana) had 20 points each in the losing case.


*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Stats Leaders - LFB
Points Per Game
 Eshaya Marie MURPHY
  Mariana
  (180-G/F-85)
  Avg: 25.5
 1. Murphy, Mariana25.5 
 2. Traore, Olesa15.8 
 3. Brunson, Ros C.15.6 
 4. Bonner, Rivas E.15.4 
 5. Valdemoro, Rivas E.14.9 
 6. Chones, Navarra14.8 
 7. Sliskovic, Real C.14.2 
 8. Ferrari, Mariana14.1 
 9. Nascimento, Cadi l.14.0 
 10. Douglas, Ros C.13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rebekkah BRUNSON
  Ros Casares
  (191-F/C-81)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Brunson, Ros C.8.8 
 2. Lyttle, Perfumer.8.5 
 3. Ress, Gran Canaria8.5 
 4. Paris, Rivas Ecopolis8.5 
 5. DeSouza, Perfumer.8.2 
 6. Vega, Mariana8.2 
 7. Murphy, Mariana7.9 
 8. Sliskovic, Real C.7.8 
 9. Staknevicien., Real C.7.5 
 10. Comfort, Mariana7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Paola FERRARI
  Mariana
  (178-G/F-85)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Ferrari, Mariana3.8 
 2. Morales, Ibiza3.7 
 3. Infantes, Olesa3.6 
 4. Ocete, Mariana3.4 
 5. Lacy, Hondar.-Irun3.3 
 6. Sanchez, Gran C.3.3 
 7. Thorburn, Ibiza3.1 
 8. Ouvina, Mann Filter3.1 
 9. Jordana, Real C.3.0 
 10. Palau, Ros Casares2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Eshaya Marie MURPHY
  Mariana
  (180-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Murphy, Mariana2.4 
 2. Lyttle, Perfumer.2.1 
 3. Lacy, Hondar.-Irun2.0 
 4. Ouvina, Mann Filter2.0 
 5. Bermejo, Rivas E.2.0 
 6. Thorburn, Ibiza2.0 
 7. Morales, Ibiza1.8 
 8. Zlatanova, Mann F.1.7 
 9. Sanchez, Gran C.1.7 
 10. Feaster-S., Mann F.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Aneika HENRY
  Mann Filter
  (191-C-86)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Henry, Mann Filter1.5 
 2. Podkovalniko., Olesa1.3 
 3. DeSouza, Perfumer.1.0 
 4. Denti, Olesa0.9 
 5. Kerr, Olesa0.9 
 6. Brunson, Ros C.0.8 
 7. Lyttle, Perfumer.0.8 
 8. Lacy, Hondar.-Irun0.8 
 9. Bavendam, Hondar.-.0.7 
 10. Pirsic, Ibiza0.6