Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/27/2011

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Men News

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ABA

SETX Mavs blast their way into ABA Championship Finals - by Eurobasket News
The SETX Mavericks (31-1) defeat the Jacksonville Giants (23-1) 109-87 to earn their way into the ABA Championship Finals Series that begins Sunday.

Desmond Cambridge (6'0''-G-79, college: Alabama A&M), Myles Thrash (6'0''-G-77, college: Stillman), and PJ Cousinard led a 3rd quarter surge that gave the Mavericks a commanding lead.

Cambridge and Thrash each scored 20 points. Odell Bradley (6'4''-F/G-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: IUPUI) followed up with 15 point and PJ Cousinard chipped in 12 points. Anthony Lumpkin (6'1''-G-78, college: SW Oklahoma St.) scored a game high 25 points to lead the Giants.

Jacksonville will face the Gulf Coast Flash on Saturday for the final spot in the ABA Championship Series, which begins on Sunday. Tip-off for Sunday's Game 1 will be at 5:00 PM. Game 2 will be Monday with tip-off at 7:30 PM. Game 3 will be Tuesday (if necessary). Tip-off would be at 7:30 PM.

Courtesy of www.kfdm.com

Flash eliminates Energy, 118-107 - by Eurobasket News
Thursday March 24, 2011

Gulf Coast Flash defeated East Kentucky Energy 118-107 and eliminates the Energy.

Southeast Texas Mavericks beat Jacksonville Giants 109-87.

Jacksonville to play Gulf Coast Flash on Saturday with the winner going into the Championship Series against SE Texas.

Courtesy of www.abalive.com

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Cibona and Drazen Anzulovic part ways - by Eurobasket News
Drazen Anzulovic (agency: Beo Basket ) is no longer a Head Coach of Cibona. Two sides agreed to part ways today. Anzulovic took over Cibona in January, after the Croatian champion released Zdravko Radulovic. Anzulovic had 6 wins in 17 games with Cibona, but his team was defeated twice in the first two rounds of Croatian league. Zadar and Borik handed them huge defeats, what was too much for Cibona's management.
Cibona promoted assistant Daniel Lutz as the new Head Coach.

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ARGENTINA

Liga B: end of regular season - by Facundo Iatzky
south zone:
Velez Sarsfield finally won the regular season in a dramatic definition. They tied with alianza viedma and huracan trelew in the first position but Velez was favored by the goal average. now it is time for playoffs. these are the games for first round (best of 3 games):

Velez - Sport Club
Alianza Viedma - Independiente (Tandil)
Huracan de Trelew - Ramos Mejia
Tomas de Rocamora - Hispano americano

north zone:
San Isidro dominated this stage and got the number one. they are the top favorites to win the league. Alma juniors ended in the second position. Playoff games:

San Isidro - Anzorena
Alma Juniors - Estudiantes (Concordia)
Union Electrica - Brown
Echague - Facundo

LigaA Round 27 (second stage): Club 9 beats La Union by one after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Second Stage. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets.

The most exciting game of round 27 in the LigaA took place in Formosa. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of second-best La Union (16-11) to eleventh ranked Club 9 (13-14) 71-70 on Friday evening. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 28-14. But La Union won second period 20-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for American power forward Jerome Meyinsse (206-88, college: Virginia) who saved his team from a defeat with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Martin Melo (197-82) contributed with 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Panamanian-Spanish power forward Ruben Garces (206-73, college: Providence, agency: Priority Sports) answered with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds for La Union. Club 9 moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Regatas C. La Union at the other side dropped to the fourth position with 11 games lost. Club 9 is looking forward to face Regatas Corrientes (#10) on the road in the next round. La Union will play against Olimpico de La Banda (#13) and is hoping to win this game.
LigaA top team - Obras (20-8) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat ninth ranked Quimsa (12-15) in Santiado Estero 85-75. Obras have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-8 record. Quimsa at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost. Obras will play against Atenas (#7) in Cordoba in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Quimsa will play at home against Gimnasia CR (#8) in Comodoro R. and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Cordoba supposed to be also worth to mention about. 7th ranked Gimnasia CR (14-13) played at the court of eighth ranked Atenas (15-13). Atenas smashed Gimnasia CR 90-68. The best player for the winners was Gregory Lewis who scored 21 points and 9 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Atenas moved-up to seventh place. Gimnasia CR at the other side dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Atenas' next round opponent will be league's leader Obras in Buenos Aires and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gimnasia CR will play on the road against Quimsa (#11) in Santiado Estero.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Gimnasia CR (14-13) and Regatas Corrientes (13-14), which took place in Corrientes. 7th ranked Gimnasia CR lost to tenth ranked Regatas Corrientes in a road game 67-82 on Wednesday. It was a good game for Louis Roe who led his team to a victory with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Regatas Corrientes have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Club 9. Loser Gimnasia CR dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Regatas Corrientes will face Club 9 (#9) in Rio Tercero in the next round.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 27: Boca Jrs was smashed by Libertad S. on the road 94-55. Monte Hermoso won against Argentino on its own court 93-83. Olimpico LB unfortunately lost to Regatas C. in Corrientes 77-83.
The most impressive performance of 27th round was 35 points (!!!) and 7 assists by Hernando Salles of Monte Hermoso.

Libertad S. - Boca Jrs 94-55

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Libertad Sunchales (15-12) crushed at home 12th ranked Boca Juniors (12-16) 94-55 on Friday. The game without a history. Libertad Sunchales led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. It was a good game for who Alexander Galindo led his team to a victory with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Naturalized Polish center Ruben Wolkowyski (207-73) contributed with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Libertad Sunchales players scored in double figures. American power forward Derrick Alston (208-72, college: Duquesne, agency: Priority Sports) answered with 14 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import guard Larry O'Bannon (194-83, college: Louisville, agency: Interperformances) added 14 points and 6 steals in the effort for Boca Juniors. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Libertad Sunchales maintains sixth place with 15-12 record. Loser Boca Juniors keeps the twelfth position with 16 games lost. Libertad Sunchales will face higher ranked Lanus (#3) in Buenos Aires in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Boca Juniors will play on the road against Sionista (#15) in Parana.
Top scorers:
Libertad S.: G.Alexander David 20+6reb+1ast, R.Wolkowyski 18+6reb+1ast, R.Battle 14+4reb+1ast, R.Selleaze 13+7reb+2ast, J.Pablo Cantero 10+1ast, R.Gabini 7+2reb+4ast
Boca Jrs: L.O'Bannon 14+2reb+1ast, D.Alston 14+6reb, J.Brussino 8+6reb+2ast, M.Delia 5+3reb, R.Elliott 5+3reb+1ast, M.Fierro 4+2reb+1ast

Quimsa - Obras 75-85

LigaA top team - Obras (20-8) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat ninth ranked Quimsa (12-15) in Santiado Estero 85-75. Obras have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-8 record. Quimsa at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 15 games lost. Obras will play against Atenas (#7) in Cordoba in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Quimsa will play at home against Gimnasia CR (#8) in Comodoro R. and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Monte Hermoso - Argentino 93-83

Rather expected game when 16th ranked Argentino (8-19) lost on the road to fourteenth ranked Monte Hermoso (10-17) 93-83 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Monte Hermoso. Argentino was better in second period 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for guard Hernando Salles (188-79) who led his team to a victory with 35 points (!!!) and 7 assists. American-Uruguayan center Reque Newsome (204-81, college: S.Indiana) contributed with 14 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Five Monte Hermoso players scored in double figures. Monte Hermoso's coach Mauricio Santangelo used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American power forward Norman Nolan (202-76, college: Virginia) answered with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 12 rebounds and the other American import power forward Joseph Bunn (198-75, college: Phillips, OK) added 31 points and 4 steals (went 12 for 12 at the free throw line !!!) in the effort for Argentino. Newly promoted Monte Hermoso maintains fourteenth place with 10-17 record. Argentino lost sixth consecutive game. Argentino at the other side, also newcomer in the league, stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Monte Hermoso will face higher ranked Estudiantes (#5) in Bahia Blanca in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Argentino will play on the road against the league's second-placed Penarol (#2) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
Top scorers:
Monte Hermoso: H.Salles 35+3reb+7ast, A.White 16+5reb+2ast, R.Newsome 14+9reb+1ast, B.Johnson 12+5reb+1ast, J.Levrino 10+4reb+1ast, A.Weigand 4+2reb
Argentino: J.Bunn 31+4reb+1ast, N.Nolan 28+12reb+3ast, J.Cangelosi 15+1reb, L.Stukes 7+3reb+3ast, P.Martinez 2+2reb+1ast, J.Sartorelli 0+2reb+4ast

La Union - Club 9 70-71

The most exciting game of round 27 in the LigaA took place in Formosa. This derby game ended with only one-point home defeat of second-best La Union (16-11) to eleventh ranked Club 9 (13-14) 71-70 on Friday evening. The guests started the game with a very strong first quarter 28-14. But La Union won second period 20-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for American power forward Jerome Meyinsse (206-88, college: Virginia) who saved his team from a defeat with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Martin Melo (197-82) contributed with 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Panamanian-Spanish power forward Ruben Garces (206-73, college: Providence, agency: Priority Sports) answered with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 12 rebounds and American guard David Jackson (196-82, college: Penn St.) added 18 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) in the effort for La Union. Club 9 moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Regatas C. La Union at the other side dropped to the fourth position with 11 games lost. Club 9 is looking forward to face Regatas Corrientes (#10) on the road in the next round. La Union will play against Olimpico de La Banda (#13) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Club 9: J.Meyinsse 19+6reb+2ast, M.Melo 16+7reb+1ast, J.Bucknor 15+3reb+4ast, L.Barlasina 6+2reb+1ast, B.Zanotti 4+1reb, G.Torre 3+3reb
La Union: D.Jackson 18+3reb, A.Pau 14+3reb+1ast, R.Garces 12+12reb, G.Mikulas 8+10reb+1ast, L.Perez 7+1reb+2ast, F.Ferrini 5+4reb+1ast

Atenas - Gimnasia CR 90-68

The game in Cordoba supposed to be also worth to mention about. 7th ranked Gimnasia CR (14-13) played at the court of eighth ranked Atenas (15-13). Atenas smashed Gimnasia CR 90-68. The game was mostly controlled by Atenas. Gimnasia CR was better in fourth quarter 19-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Atenas especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.0 percentage. The best player for the winners was American forward Gregory Lewis (198-78, college: Winthrop, agency: Dream Team Management) who scored 21 points and 9 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Guard Miguel Gerlero (192-88) chipped in 15 points. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Hakeem Rollins (202-83, college: Washington, agency: Dream Team Management) who recorded 13 points and 7 rebounds and center Diego Romero (209-82, college: Florida St.) added 9 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Atenas moved-up to seventh place. Gimnasia CR at the other side dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Atenas' next round opponent will be league's leader Obras in Buenos Aires and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Gimnasia CR will play on the road against Quimsa (#11) in Santiado Estero.
Top scorers:
Atenas: G.Lewis 21+9reb, M.Gerlero 15+3reb+2ast, M.Lescano 13+2reb+4ast, J.Manuel Rivero 11+5reb+1ast, M.Garcia 10+4reb, J.Williams 7+5reb
Gimnasia CR: H.Rollins 13+7reb+1ast, F.Funes 12+1reb+1ast, M.Maciel 10+3reb+1ast, A.Carabajal 10+2reb, D.Romero 9+5reb+3ast, R.Okosa 7+3reb+2ast

Regatas C. - Olimpico LB 83-77

Rather predictable result when tenth ranked Regatas Corrientes (13-14) won against at home 13th ranked Olimpico de La Banda (11-15) 83-77 on Friday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Olimpico de La Banda won third quarter 18-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Regatas Corrientes made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a good game for American forward Louis Roe (200-72, college: Massachusetts) who led his team to a victory with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Naturalized Paraguayan guard Javier Martinez (189-78, agency: Dream Team Management) contributed with 12 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Regatas Corrientes' coach Fabio Demti used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international center Diego Guaita (204-83) answered with 22 points and 6 rebounds and American guard Andre Laws (186-80, college: San Diego, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 16 points and 4 steals in the effort for Olimpico de La Banda. Regatas Corrientes have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Club 9. Loser Olimpico de La Banda keeps the thirteenth position with 15 games lost. Regatas Corrientes will face Club 9 (#9) in Rio Tercero in the next round. Olimpico de La Banda will play on the road against La Union (#4) in Formosa.
Top scorers:
Regatas C.: L.Roe 22+7reb+4ast, R.Stanton 21+3ast, J.Martinez 12+7reb+9ast, N.Romano 8+5reb+2ast, O.Legaria 8+3reb+2ast, F.Kammerichs 6+2reb+1ast
Olimpico LB: D.Guaita 22+6reb, A.Laws 16+3ast, E.Ruiz 13+1ast, D.Kante 7+5reb+2ast, C.Romero 7+1reb+1ast, N.De los Santos 5+3reb+1ast

Round 23

Regatas C. - Gimnasia CR 82-67

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Gimnasia CR (14-13) and Regatas Corrientes (13-14), which took place in Corrientes. 7th ranked Gimnasia CR lost to tenth ranked Regatas Corrientes in a road game 67-82 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 42-23 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Regatas Corrientes looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a good game for American forward Louis Roe (200-72, college: Massachusetts) who led his team to a victory with 22 points and 9 rebounds. The former international power forward Federico Kammerichs (203-80) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Regatas Corrientes players scored in double figures. American power forward Hakeem Rollins (202-83, college: Washington, agency: Dream Team Management) answered with 18 points and 8 rebounds and Nigerian-American power forward Reggie Okosa (206-80, college: La Salle) added 15 points and 12 rebounds in the effort for Gimnasia CR. Regatas Corrientes have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Club 9. Loser Gimnasia CR dropped to the eighth position with 13 games lost. Regatas Corrientes will face Club 9 (#9) in Rio Tercero in the next round.
Top scorers:
Regatas C.: L.Roe 22+9reb+2ast, E.Villares 16+1reb+3ast, F.Kammerichs 16+11reb+2ast, J.Martinez 13+1reb+11ast, R.Stanton 8, N.Romano 4+3reb+2ast
Gimnasia CR: H.Rollins 18+8reb+3ast, R.Okosa 15+12reb+1ast, D.Romero 10+1reb+3ast, A.Carabajal 7+2reb+1ast, M.Franco 5+2reb+2ast, M.Maciel 3+1reb+1ast

Round 28

Atenas - Obras 60-66

LigaA top team - Obras (20-8) added another victory to their record on Wednesday. This time they beat eighth ranked Atenas (15-13) in Cordoba 66-60. The guests trailed by 10 points at the halftime before their 22-4 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Obras dominated on the defensive end, holding Atenas to just 4 points in third and fourth quarters. It was a quality performance for international power forward Juan Gutierrez (205-83) who led the winners and scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Alexis Elsener (196-88) accounted for 10 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. American power forward James Williams (204-79, college: Brown Mackie, agency: Dream Team Management) came up with 9 points and 15 rebounds and the former international guard Bruno Labaque (183-77, agency: Interperformances) added 7 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists respectively for Atenas in the defeat. Obras have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-8 record. Atenas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh position with 13 games lost. Obras will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Atenas will play again against the league's leader Obras (#1) in Buenos Aires and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Obras: J.Gutierrez 12+7reb+2ast, C.Schattmann 10+1ast, A.Elsener 10+8reb+1ast, W.McFarlan 10+4reb+1ast, A.Alloatti 8+3reb, L.Cequeira 7+3reb+4ast
Atenas: M.Lescano 13+3reb+1ast, G.Lewis 10+5reb+1ast, J.Manuel Rivero 10+6reb, J.Williams 9+15reb, M.Gerlero 7+2reb+1ast, B.Labaque 7+5reb+9ast

Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings

1. Obras		20-8
2. Penarol		16-10
3. Lanus		16-10
4. La Union		16-11
5. Estudiantes		15-11
6. Libertad S.		15-12
7. Atenas		15-13
8. Gimnasia CR		14-13
9. Club 9		13-14
10. Regatas C.		13-14
11. Quimsa		12-15
12. Boca Jrs		12-16
13. Olimpico LB		11-15
14. Monte Hermoso		10-17
15. Sionista		9-17
16. Argentino		8-19

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game

David JACKSON
  La Union
  (196-G-82)
  Avg: 20.2

1. Jackson, La Union	20.2
2. Bunn, Argentino	19.7
3. Lo Grippo, Quimsa	17.5
4. Meyinsse, Club 9	16.9
5. Johnson, Monte H.	16.4
6. Gutierrez, Obras	16.4
7. Galindo, Libertad S.	16.1
8. Taylor, Lanus	15.4
9. Salles, Monte H.	15.2
10. White, Monte H.	14.6

Rebounds Per Game

Juan GUTIERREZ
  Obras
  (205-F/C-83)
  Avg: 10.2

1. Gutierrez, Obras	10.2
2. Kammerichs, Regat.	10.2
3. Battle, Libertad S.	9.0
4. Rollins, Gimnasia.	8.8
5. Williams, Atenas	8.4
6. Kante, Olimpico LB	8.3
7. Johnson, Monte H.	8.0
8. Alston, Boca Jrs	7.8
9. Leiva, Penarol	7.5
10. Okosa, Gimnasia CR	7.3

Assists Per Game

Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudiantes
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Sanchez, Estudian.	6.8
2. Martinez, Regat.	6.2
3. Labaque, Atenas	5.3
4. Salles, Monte H.	4.8
5. Ginobili, Libertad S.	4.6
6. Cequeira, Obras	4.3
7. Franco, Sionista	3.6
8. Treise, Quimsa	3.4
9. Sartorelli, Argentino	3.1
10. Laws, Olimpico LB	3.0

Steals Per Game

Pepe SANCHEZ
  Estudiantes
  (193-G-77)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Sanchez, Estudian.	3.3
2. Sciutto, Monte H.	2.6
3. Cequeira, Obras	2.5
4. Martinez, Regat.	2.5
5. Salles, Monte H.	2.5
6. Labaque, Atenas	2.4
7. Selleaze, Libertad S.	2.3
8. Williams, Atenas	2.3
9. Lamonte, Penarol	2.3
10. Okosa, Gimnasia CR	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Robert BATTLE
  Libertad S.
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 2

1. Battle, Libertad S.	2.0
2. Meyinsse, Club 9	1.3
3. Johnson, Monte H.	1.3
4. Kammerichs, Regat.	1.2
5. Gutierrez, Obras	1.1
6. Alston, Boca Jrs	1.0
7. Williams, Atenas	0.9
8. Aguerre, Estudian.	0.9
9. Tintorelli, Quimsa	0.8
10. Levy, Lanus	0.8

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AUSTRALIA

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Kirk PENNEY
  Breakers
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 20.6

1. Penney, Breakers	20.6
2. Ervin, Hawks	20.1
3. Redhage, Wildcats	18.0
4. Williams, Tigers	17.9
5. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	17.6
6. Clark, Blaze	17.2
7. Worthington, Blaze	16.8
8. Wilkinson, Breakers	16.1
9. Ballinger, 36ers	15.3
10. Devendorf, Tigers	14.6

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 10.2

1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	10.2
2. Davidson, Hawks	8.0
3. Vukona, Breakers	7.7
4. Nevill, Tigers	7.4
5. Williams, Tigers	7.0
6. Worthington, Blaze	7.0
7. Crosswhite, Taipa.	6.9
8. Burston, Tigers	6.8
9. Holmes, 36ers	6.8
10. Schenscher, Croco.	6.8

Assists Per Game

Corey WILLIAMS
  Tigers
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 6

1. Williams, Tigers	6.0
2. Gibson, Blaze	5.5
3. Shannon, 36ers	4.4
4. Ervin, Hawks	4.4
5. Braswell, Breakers	4.2
6. Saville, Hawks	4.2
7. Carter, 36ers	4.1
8. Ubaka, Taipans	3.9
9. Blalock, Crocodiles	3.6
10. DeVries, 36ers	3.4

Steals Per Game

Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Martin, Wildcats	2.3
2. Williams, Tigers	1.4
3. Crawford, Croco.	1.4
4. Saville, Hawks	1.4
5. Carter, 36ers	1.4
6. Tovey, Wildcats	1.3
7. Ervin, Hawks	1.3
8. Braswell, Breakers	1.3
9. Ellis, Crocodiles	1.3
10. Shannon, 36ers	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Adam BALLINGER
  36ers
  (205-F-79)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Ballinger, 36ers	1.9
2. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	1.9
3. Clark, Blaze	1.2
4. Nevill, Tigers	1.1
5. Worthington, Blaze	1.1
6. Schenscher, Croco.	1.1
7. Freeman, Croco.	0.9
8. Crosswhite, Taipa.	0.9
9. Tovey, Wildcats	0.8
10. Sanders, Sydney K.	0.8

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Breakers		20-6
2. Crocodiles		17-10
3. Wildcats		16-12
4. Taipans		15-12
5. Hawks		14-13
6. Blaze		12-15
7. Tigers		10-17
8. 36ers		9-18
9. Sydney K.		8-18

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

BELARUS

Standings - Premier League

Premier Standings

Group A
1. Minsk-2006		39-0
2. Grodno-93		25-14
3. OZAA Osipov.		23-16
4. Sozh Gomel		18-21
Group B
1. Lokomotiv		24-15
2. Borifsen		15-24
3. BGUIR-RCOR		6-32
4. Vitalyur		5-33

Premier League Round 11: Grodno-93 loses to Minsk-2006 in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Minsk. Leader Minsk-2006 faced second-ranked Grodno-93. Host Minsk-2006 (39-0) smashed guests from Grodno (25-14) 81-58. The game without a history. Minsk-2006 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Defending champion maintains first place in League with 39-0 record. Grodno-93 at the other side keeps the second position with 14 games lost.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Osipovichi. Third ranked OZAA Osipovichi faced 4th placed Sozh Gomel. Host OZAA Osipovichi (23-16) defeated guests from Gomel (18-21) 105-90. OZAA Osipovichi maintains third place in League with 23-16 record behind leader Lokomotiv. Sozh Gomel at the other side keeps the fourth position with 21 games lost.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Vitebsk. First ranked Lokomotiv faced second-ranked Borifsen. Host Lokomotiv (24-15) defeated guests from Mogilev (15-24) 96-84. Lokomotiv maintains first place in League with 24-15 record. Loser Borifsen keeps the second position with 24 games lost.

Group A

Minsk-2006 - Grodno-93 81-58

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Minsk. Leader Minsk-2006 faced second-ranked Grodno-93. Host Minsk-2006 (39-0) smashed guests from Grodno (25-14) 81-58. The game without a history. Minsk-2006 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Defending champion maintains first place in League with 39-0 record. Grodno-93 at the other side keeps the second position with 14 games lost.

OZAA Osipov. - Sozh Gomel 105-90

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Osipovichi. Third ranked OZAA Osipovichi faced 4th placed Sozh Gomel. Host OZAA Osipovichi (23-16) defeated guests from Gomel (18-21) 105-90. The game was mostly controlled by OZAA Osipovichi. Sozh Gomel was better in third quarter 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. OZAA Osipovichi maintains third place in League with 23-16 record behind leader Lokomotiv. Sozh Gomel at the other side keeps the fourth position with 21 games lost.

Group B

Lokomotiv - Borifsen 96-84

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Vitebsk. First ranked Lokomotiv faced second-ranked Borifsen. Host Lokomotiv (24-15) defeated guests from Mogilev (15-24) 96-84. The game without a history. Lokomotiv led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Lokomotiv maintains first place in League with 24-15 record. Loser Borifsen keeps the second position with 24 games lost.

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

BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

1. Charleroi		19-1
2. Aalstar		17-6
3. M.Hainaut		13-8
4. Antwerp		12-9
5. Oostende		11-11
6. Leuven		7-14
7. Verviers-Pep.		7-15
8. Liege		6-14
9. Gent		4-18

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Demond MALLET
  Charleroi
  (185-G-78)
  Avg: 16.3

1. Mallet, Charleroi	16.3
2. Jackson, Verviers.	16.2
3. Copeland, Aalstar	16.1
4. Taylor, M.Hainaut	16.0
5. Lojeski, Oostende	15.4
6. Black, Antwerp	15.1
7. Hilliard, Aalstar	15.0
8. Waters, Verviers.	14.8
9. Miller, Leuven	14.6
10. Freeman, Verviers.	14.6

Rebounds Per Game

Rashaun FREEMAN
  Verviers-Pep.
  (206-C/F-84)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Freeman, Verviers.	7.9
2. Randle, Gent	7.8
3. Young, Aalstar	7.6
4. Hilliard, Aalstar	7.5
5. Tofi, Leuven	7.4
6. Stipanovic, Liege	6.7
7. Jackson, Verviers.	6.6
8. Brown, Antwerp	6.2
9. Copeland, Aalstar	6.2
10. Emerson, Gent	6.1

Assists Per Game

Darrel MITCHELL
  Oostende
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Mitchell, Oostende	4.5
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	3.8
3. Dagunduro, Leuven	3.7
4. Waters, Verviers.	3.3
5. Hopkins, Antwerp	3.1
6. Moors, Antwerp	2.9
7. Mallet, Charleroi	2.9
8. Lewis, M.Hainaut	2.8
9. Black, Antwerp	2.6
10. Miller, Leuven	2.6

Steals Per Game

Michael JENKINS
  Liege
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Jenkins, Liege	2.8
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	2.6
3. Hopkins, Antwerp	2.4
4. Mallet, Charleroi	2.3
5. Mitchell, Oostende	2.0
6. Dagunduro, Leuven	1.9
7. Taylor, M.Hainaut	1.9
8. Wilson, Antwerp	1.8
9. Lojeski, Oostende	1.6
10. Black, Antwerp	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Mejri, Antwerp	1.7
2. Riddick, Charleroi	1.7
3. Johnson, Aalstar	1.1
4. Randle, Gent	0.8
5. Tofi, Leuven	0.8
6. Young, Aalstar	0.7
7. Pelle, Oostende	0.5
8. Stipanovic, Liege	0.5
9. Freeman, Verviers.	0.5
10. Dagunduro, Leuven	0.4

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

BRAZIL

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings

1. BRB/Brasilia		19-7
2. Pinheiros/Sky		18-7
3. Flamengo		18-7
4. Vivo/Franca		17-8
5. Unitri/Universo		17-9
6. Itabom/Bauru		16-9
7. Araldite/Univille		16-9
8. S.Jose/Vinac		14-11
9. Pitagoras/Minas		12-13
10. Winner/Limeira		11-14
11. Araraquara		8-17
12. Paulistano		7-18
13. Vitoria		6-20
14. Assis Basket		5-20
15. Vila Velha CETAF		5-20

Splitter replaces Injured Duncan for Spurs - by Mel Devonne
Brasilian Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) is filling in for Tim Duncan at center for the league leading San Antonio Spurs of the NBA.
Duncan turn an ankle and will be out for a while. The Spurs have turned to 6-11 Brasilian Splitter who
is in his rookie NBA season.
Splitter has had a slow year but is a big body and has been a fair player off the bench for the Spurs.
The Spurs have the best record in the NBA and the playoffs are less than a month away.
Splitter is averaging about 4 points and 2 rebounds a game on the year, but has been slowed by injury
during this season.
Splitter has been in double figures in 2 games as a starter, and he needs to be productive
while Tim Duncan is out .
Go Tiago

NBB Round 27: Winner/Limeira defeats leader Pinheiros/Sky - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with defeat of the leader, derby games, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Pinheiros/Sky (18-7) in Sao Paolo on Thursday night. Hosts were edged by tenth ranked Winner/Limeira (11-14) 93-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Pinheiros/Sky. Pinheiros/Sky was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 26-19 charge of Winner/Limeira, which allowed them to win the game. Winner/Limeira maintains tenth place with 11-14 record. Pinheiros/Sky at the other side dropped to the second position with seven games lost. They share it with Flamengo. Winner/Limeira are looking forward to face Paulistano (#12) in Sao Paolo in the next round. Pinheiros/Sky will play at home against Sao Jose/Vinac (#8) and is hoping to win this game.
Important game to mention about took place in Rio de Janeiro. Sixth ranked Unitri/Universo (17-9) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging leader Flamengo (18-7) 90-88 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Flamengo. Unitri/Universo moved-up to fifth place. Flamengo at the other side dropped to the second position with seven games lost. They share it with Pinheiros/Sky. Unitri/Universo will play against Pitagoras/Minas (#9) in Belo Horizonte in the next round. Flamengo will play at home against the league's leader BRB/Brasilia (#1) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
A very close game took place in Sao Paulo between Vivo/Franca and BRB/Brasilia. Fifth ranked Vivo/Franca (17-8) got a very close home victory over 3rd placed BRB/Brasilia (19-7). Vivo/Franca managed to escape with a 3-point win 80-77 on Sunday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BRB/Brasilia. Vivo/Franca moved-up to fourth place. Defending champion BRB/Brasilia still keeps top position with seven games lost. Vivo/Franca will meet Assis Basket (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. BRB/Brasilia will play against Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Sao Paulo: Vivo/Franca (#5) and Itabom/Bauru (#4). Vivo/Franca (17-8) won against visiting Itabom/Bauru (16-9) 76-71. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Itabom/Bauru. Vivo/Franca moved-up to fourth place. Itabom/Bauru at the other side dropped to the sixth position with nine games lost. Vivo/Franca's next round opponent will be Assis Basket (#14) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Itabom/Bauru will play against Araraquara (#11).
Important game to mention about took place in Sao Paolo. Twelfth ranked Paulistano (7-18) saved a 1-point victory at home edging higher ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (14-11) 87-86 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Sao Jose/Vinac. Paulistano maintains twelfth place with 7-18 record. Loser Sao Jose/Vinac keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Paulistano will face higher ranked Winner/Limeira (#10) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 27: BRB/Brasilia beat Pitagoras/Minas on the road 103-91. Araldite/Univille won against Vitoria on its own court 88-70. Araraquara managed to outperform Assis Basket in a road game 77-73. Araraquara lost to defending champion BRB/Brasilia at home 75-98.

Pinheiros/Sky - Winner/Limeira 92-93

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Pinheiros/Sky (18-7) in Sao Paolo on Thursday night. Hosts were edged by tenth ranked Winner/Limeira (11-14) 93-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Pinheiros/Sky. Pinheiros/Sky was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 26-19 charge of Winner/Limeira, which allowed them to win the game. Winner/Limeira maintains tenth place with 11-14 record. Pinheiros/Sky at the other side dropped to the second position with seven games lost. They share it with Flamengo. Winner/Limeira are looking forward to face Paulistano (#12) in Sao Paolo in the next round. Pinheiros/Sky will play at home against Sao Jose/Vinac (#8) and is hoping to win this game.

Flamengo - Unitri/Universo 88-90

Important game to mention about took place in Rio de Janeiro. Sixth ranked Unitri/Universo (17-9) saved a 2-point victory on the road edging leader Flamengo (18-7) 90-88 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Flamengo. The guests were ahead by 5 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 28-24 run, which allowed them to win the game. Unitri/Universo moved-up to fifth place. Flamengo at the other side dropped to the second position with seven games lost. They share it with Pinheiros/Sky. Unitri/Universo will play against Pitagoras/Minas (#9) in Belo Horizonte in the next round. Flamengo will play at home against the league's leader BRB/Brasilia (#1) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Pitagoras/Minas - BRB/Brasilia 91-103

No shocking result in a game when third ranked BRB/Brasilia (19-7) beat 9th ranked Pitagoras/Minas (12-13) in Belo Horizonte 103-91 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by BRB/Brasilia. Pitagoras/Minas was better in third quarter 25-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader. Pitagoras/Minas lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 13 games lost. BRB/Brasilia will face Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Pitagoras/Minas will play at home against Unitri/Universo (#5) in Uberlandia.

Araldite/Univille - Vitoria 88-70

Very expected game when 13th ranked Vitoria (6-20) lost to seventh ranked Araldite/Univille (16-9) in Joinville 70-88 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Araldite/Univille. Vitoria was better in fourth quarter 26-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Araldite/Univille moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Itabom/Bauru. Newly promoted Vitoria keeps the thirteenth position with 20 games lost. Araldite/Univille will face bottom-ranked Vila Velha CETAF (#15) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game.

Vivo/Franca - Itabom/Bauru 76-71

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Sao Paulo: Vivo/Franca (#5) and Itabom/Bauru (#4). Vivo/Franca (17-8) won against visiting Itabom/Bauru (16-9) 76-71. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Itabom/Bauru. It looked good early as Itabom/Bauru took an 4-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Vivo/Franca had a 24-8 second period charge getting the lead and Itabom/Bauru was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 71-76. Vivo/Franca moved-up to fourth place. Itabom/Bauru at the other side dropped to the sixth position with nine games lost. Vivo/Franca's next round opponent will be Assis Basket (#14) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Itabom/Bauru will play against Araraquara (#11).

Assis Basket - Araraquara 73-77

Rather predictable result when eleventh ranked Araraquara (8-17) won against on the road 14th ranked Assis Basket (5-20) 77-73 on Friday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Assis Basket won third quarter 20-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Araraquara maintains eleventh place with 8-17 record. Assis Basket lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fourteenth position with 20 games lost. Araraquara will face higher ranked Itabom/Bauru (#6) in Sao Paulo in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Assis Basket will play at home against Vivo/Franca (#4) where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.

Paulistano - S.Jose/Vinac 87-86

Important game to mention about took place in Sao Paolo. Twelfth ranked Paulistano (7-18) saved a 1-point victory at home edging higher ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (14-11) 87-86 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Sao Jose/Vinac. The hosts trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 32-24 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Paulistano maintains twelfth place with 7-18 record. Loser Sao Jose/Vinac keeps the eighth position with 11 games lost. Paulistano will face higher ranked Winner/Limeira (#10) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

Round 18

Vivo/Franca - BRB/Brasilia 80-77

A very close game took place in Sao Paulo between Vivo/Franca and BRB/Brasilia. Fifth ranked Vivo/Franca (17-8) got a very close home victory over 3rd placed BRB/Brasilia (19-7). Vivo/Franca managed to escape with a 3-point win 80-77 on Sunday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BRB/Brasilia. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Vivo/Franca moved-up to fourth place. Defending champion BRB/Brasilia still keeps top position with seven games lost. Vivo/Franca will meet Assis Basket (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. BRB/Brasilia will play against Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Round 19

Araraquara - BRB/Brasilia 75-98

Not a big story in a game when 11th ranked Araraquara (8-17) was outscored at home by third ranked BRB/Brasilia (19-7) 98-75 on Tuesday. The game was mostly controlled by BRB/Brasilia. Araraquara was better in fourth quarter 27-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader. Loser Araraquara keeps the eleventh place with 17 games lost. BRB/Brasilia will face Flamengo (#3) in Rio de Janeiro in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Araraquara will play on the road against Itabom/Bauru (#6) in Sao Paulo.

National coach visits US to meet with Melo - by Mel Devonne
Brasilian National team coach Ruben Magnano (agency: Interperformances ) according to FIBA.com recently traveled to the
United States to meet with various players about playing for the Brasil national team.
He took in some March madness and met with Fabricio de Melo (212-C-90) who is a reserve center for the
Syracuse Orangemen who were in the NCAA tournament.
He also met with Toronto Raptor and Brasilan Leandro Barbosa, Denver Nugget Ne Ne Hilario ,
and Tiago Splitter of the San Antonio Spurs.
All of these guys will be needed for the Brasilian national team to compete this summer and to
qualifiy for the 2012 Olympic games.
Brasil will play this summer in the 2011 FIBA Americas Championship which is a qualifing tournament
for the 2012 Olympics in London.

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

CROATIA

A1 Standings

Group A
1. Borik		1-0
2. Cedevita		1-0
3. KK Zagreb CO		1-0
4. KK Split		1-0
5. Zadar		1-2
6. Zabok		0-0
7. Alkar Sinj		0-1
8. Cibona		0-2
Group B
1. Kvarner 2010		1-0
2. Svjetlost		1-0
3. Trogir		1-0
4. Darda		0-1
5. Dubrava		0-1
6. Dubrovnik		0-1

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Hrvoje PULJKO
  Kvarner 2010
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 22.4

1. Puljko, Kvarner .	22.4
2. Petkovic, Svjetlost	20.9
3. Zitko, Trogir	18.9
4. Mimica, KK Split	18.4
5. Krapic, Zabok	17.6
6. Saric, Dubrava	17.1
7. Krolo, Darda	16.6
8. Sobin, KK Split	16.6
9. Ridl, Darda	15.8
10. Bakovic, Darda	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Ante KRAPIC
  Cibona
  (202-F-85)
  Avg: 9.4

1. Krapic, Zabok	9.4
2. Krolo, Darda	8.9
3. Saric, Dubrava	8.9
4. Radic, Alkar Sinj	8.3
5. Sobin, KK Split	8.2
6. Ridl, Darda	6.5
7. Ragsdale, Kvarner .	6.3
8. Ruzic, Borik	6.2
9. Grgurevic, KK Split	5.5
10. Zupic, Alkar Sinj	5.5

Assists Per Game

Milan KARAKAS
  Trogir
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Karakas, Trogir	5.1
2. Petkovic, Svjetlost	5.0
3. Blajic, Trogir	4.3
4. Blajic, Alkar Sinj	4.3
5. Tomeljak, Zabok	3.9
6. Delas, Alkar Sinj	3.6
7. Jugo, Kvarner 2010	3.4
8. Saric, Dubrava	3.1
9. Katic, KK Split	3.1
10. Sarac, Svjetlost	3.0

Steals Per Game

Teo PETANI
  Borik
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Petani, Borik	2.2
2. Anzulovic, Alkar Sinj	2.1
3. Saric, Dubrava	2.1
4. Kamaldin, Darda	1.9
5. Swift, Darda	1.8
6. Puljko, Kvarner .	1.8
7. Blajic, Trogir	1.8
8. Tomeljak, Zabok	1.8
9. Maric, Svjetlost	1.7
10. Skific, Borik	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Filip KRALJEVIC
  Zabok
  (214-F-89)
  Avg: 1.4

1. Kraljevic, Zabok	1.4
2. Vladovic, Trogir	1.4
3. Vitali, Trogir	1.3
4. Saric, Dubrava	1.2
5. Krolo, Darda	1.1
6. Sobin, KK Split	1.1
7. Ragsdale, Kvarner .	1.0
8. Vukicevic, Svjetlost	0.9
9. Sarlija, Borik	0.8
10. Ridl, Darda	0.8

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

A1
1. CEZ Nymburk		3-0
2. BK Pardubice		3-1
3. BK Prostejov		3-1
4. BK Decin		1-3
5. Novy Jicin		1-3
6. NH Ostrava		0-3
A2
1. B&W Opava		15-11
2. BC Kolin		12-14
3. USK Praha		9-17
4. Basketbol Brno		7-19
5. Svitavy		7-19
6. Plzen		3-23

NBL Round 6: CEZ Nymburk handed BK Pardubice the first loss - by Eurobasket News
NBL is at the halfway of the Second Stage and there are still another 6 rounds left. There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with loss of the undefeated team, extra overtimes and games ending by tiny margin.

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated BK Pardubice (3-1) at the home court on Saturday night. Hosts were defeated by CEZ Nymburk (3-0) 69-59. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of BK Pardubice. It was a key game for the top position in A1 as both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting. The game without a history. CEZ Nymburk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to BK Pardubice's 26. International power forward Petr Benda (203-82, agency: Court Side) scored 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international forward Radek Necas (204-80) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Lucas Kraus (201-84) with 14 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. CEZ Nymburk have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion keeps a position of A1 leader. BK Pardubice at the other side dropped to the second place with one game lost. They share the position with BK Prostejov. CEZ Nymburk are looking forward to face Novy Jicin (#5) in Novy Jicin in the next round. BK Pardubice will play on the road against BK Prostejov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Important game to mention about took place in Novy Jicin. Sixth ranked Novy Jicin (1-3) saved a 2-point victory at home edging bottom-ranked NH Ostrava (0-3) 75-73 on Saturday evening. American-Puerto Rican guard Emanuel Ubilla (188-86, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) notched 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the effort and Dusan Pandula supported him with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Novy Jicin's coach Zbynek Choleva allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Even 19 points and 7 rebounds by Canadian forward Andrew Spagrud (203-85) did not help to save the game for NH Ostrava. Novy Jicin left bottom position moving up to fourth place in A1, which they share with BK Decin. It was NH Ostrava's third loss in a row. They still closes the standings with three games lost. Novy Jicin will play against league's leader CEZ Nymburk on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. NH Ostrava will play against BK Decin (#4) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
The game between Top Four teams took place in Decin. 4th ranked host BK Decin (1-3) was smashed by third ranked BK Prostejov (3-1) 82-60. The best player for the winners was Eugene Lawrence who scored 14 points and 9 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Pavel Houska who recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 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. BK Prostejov moved-up to second place in A1, which they share with BK Pardubice. BK Decin lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with Novy Jicin. BK Prostejov will meet at home league's second-placed BK Pardubice in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. BK Decin will play against NH Ostrava and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 6
In A2 Svitavy won against Basketbol Brno on the opponent's court 65-63. B&W Opava outscored BC Kolin in a home game 92-53.

Group A1

BK Pardubice - CEZ Nymburk 59-69

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of undefeated BK Pardubice (3-1) at the home court on Saturday night. Hosts were defeated by CEZ Nymburk (3-0) 69-59. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of BK Pardubice. It was a key game for the top position in A1 as both teams had the same 2-0 record before this meeting. The game without a history. CEZ Nymburk led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to BK Pardubice's 26. International power forward Petr Benda (203-82, agency: Court Side) scored 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international forward Radek Necas (204-80) chipped in 18 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Lucas Kraus (201-84) with 14 points and swingman Jiri Cernosek (200-81) scored 7 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. CEZ Nymburk have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion keeps a position of A1 leader. BK Pardubice at the other side dropped to the second place with one game lost. They share the position with BK Prostejov. CEZ Nymburk are looking forward to face Novy Jicin (#5) in Novy Jicin in the next round. BK Pardubice will play on the road against BK Prostejov and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
CEZ Nymburk: P.Benda 25+8reb+2ast, R.Necas 18+7reb+2ast, A.Nissim 9+5reb+4ast, C.Simmons 8+6reb+3ast, P.Pumprla 7+2reb, P.Slezak 2+1reb
BK Pardubice: L.Kraus 14+1reb, M.Hampton 11+1ast, J.Cernosek 7+7reb+1ast, Z.Pospisil 6+3reb+1ast, M.Arnold 5+5reb+1ast, P.Milos 4+2reb

BK Decin - BK Prostejov 60-82

The game between Top Four teams took place in Decin. 4th ranked host BK Decin (1-3) was smashed by third ranked BK Prostejov (3-1) 82-60. The game was mostly controlled by BK Prostejov. BK Decin managed to win second period 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. BK Prostejov looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was American guard Eugene Lawrence (184-86, college: St.John's) who scored 14 points and 9 assists. Canadian forward Kyle Landry (206-86, college: N.Arizona) chipped in 17 points and 7 rebounds. Four BK Prostejov players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was international forward Pavel Houska (201-84) who recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds and American guard Wiliam Hatcher (188-84, college: Miami, OH, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 9 points and 5 assists 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. BK Prostejov moved-up to second place in A1, which they share with BK Pardubice. BK Decin lost third consecutive game. They keep the fourth position with three games lost. They share it with Novy Jicin. BK Prostejov will meet at home league's second-placed BK Pardubice in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. BK Decin will play against NH Ostrava and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
BK Prostejov: K.Landry 17+7reb+2ast, B.Cadri-Nicholson 15+9reb+2ast, A.Slezas 15+3reb+2ast, E.Lawrence 14+4reb+9ast, B.Veikalas 8+4reb+4ast, J.Prasil 7+1reb+1ast
BK Decin: P.Houska 11+10reb+1ast, W.Hatcher 9+1reb+5ast, R.Landa 8, M.Soukup 7+7reb+1ast, A.Pistecky 5+2ast, J.Houska 5+6reb

Novy Jicin - NH Ostrava 75-73

Important game to mention about took place in Novy Jicin. Sixth ranked Novy Jicin (1-3) saved a 2-point victory at home edging bottom-ranked NH Ostrava (0-3) 75-73 on Saturday evening. It looked good early as NH Ostrava took an 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Novy Jicin had a 25-15 second period charge getting the lead and NH Ostrava was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 73-75. They outrebounded NH Ostrava 37-25 including 26 on the offensive glass. American-Puerto Rican guard Emanuel Ubilla (188-86, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) notched 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the effort and Slovakian forward Dusan Pandula (196-84) supported him with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Novy Jicin's coach Zbynek Choleva allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Even 19 points and 7 rebounds by Canadian forward Andrew Spagrud (203-85) did not help to save the game for NH Ostrava. American forward Dwight Burke (203-86, college: Marquette) added 11 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Novy Jicin left bottom position moving up to fourth place in A1, which they share with BK Decin. It was NH Ostrava's third loss in a row. They still closes the standings with three games lost. Novy Jicin will play against league's leader CEZ Nymburk on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. NH Ostrava will play against BK Decin (#4) and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Novy Jicin: C.Muirhead 15+4reb+4ast, D.Steffel 14+5reb+1ast, D.Pandula 13+8reb+2ast, E.Ubilla 13+7reb+6ast, O.Soska 8+4reb, L.Jurecka 6+1reb
NH Ostrava: A.Spagrud 19+7reb+2ast, L.Palyza 15+1ast, M.Stuchly 11+3reb+1ast, D.Burke 11+5reb+1ast, A.Ciz 8+1reb+2ast, M.Gniadek 4+6reb

Group A2

Plzen - USK Praha 71-73 OT

Praha needed overtime to beat Plzen 73:71. Novak top-scored for the winners with 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Bjegovic replied with 18 points in the losing effort.

Top scorers:
USK Praha: M.Bjegovic 18+9reb+1ast, V.Hruban 15+5reb, L.Kotas 13+8reb+5ast, J.Slavik 10+4reb+1ast, M.Klimes 6+11reb, M.Sotnar 6+2reb+1ast
Plzen: P.Novak 19+13reb+5ast, L.Pecka 14+4reb, J.Kovanda 13+13reb+1ast, M.Soukup 10+3reb+4ast, K.Riha 7+2reb+3ast, P.Frana 5+11reb

Basketbol Brno - Svitavy 63-65

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when one of their biggest challengers Basketbol Brno (7-19) was edged at home by fifth ranked Basketbal Svitavy (7-19) 65-63 on Saturday. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Congolese-French forward Boris Meno (203-83, college: Davidson) scored 20 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Ravone George (193-83, college: Alabama) chipped in 19 points and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) during the contest. The best for the losing side was guard Daniel Gajdosik (189-80) with 15 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 8 steals and power forward Michal Norwa (201-83) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds. Four Basketbol Brno players scored in double figures. Basketbal Svitavy moved-up to fourth place in A2, which they share with defeated Basketbol Brno. Basketbol Brno lost sixth consecutive game. Basketbal Svitavy will face league's second-placed BC Kolin on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Basketbol Brno will play against Lokomotiva Plzen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Svitavy: B.Meno 20+9reb, R.George 19+4reb+4ast, L.Horak 9+8reb+2ast, J.Spacek 7+3reb+4ast, T.Macela 5+2ast, T.Teply 3+2reb+1ast
Basketbol Brno: S.Reinberger 15+2reb+1ast, D.Gajdosik 15+7reb+5ast, M.Norwa 10+13reb, P.Sedmak 10+6reb, S.Maio 6+4ast, S.Castleberry 5+5reb

B&W Opava - BC Kolin 92-53

The game between closely ranked teams ended with first ranked B&W Opava's (15-11) home victory over second-best BC Kolin (12-14) 92-53 on Saturday. The game without a history. B&W Opava led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to BC Kolin's 34. They outrebounded BC Kolin 46-25 including a 34-16 advantage in offensive rebounds. B&W Opava looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Forward Jan Kratochvil (200-82) had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Jakub Blazek (203-80) chipped in 12 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Four B&W Opava players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Slovakian guard Roman Marko (195-86) with 10 points and 5 rebounds and forward Richard Field (196-85, college: Mercyhurst) scored 10 points. BC Kolin's coach Predrag Benacek gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. B&W Opava have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position in A2 with 15-11 record. Loser BC Kolin keeps the second place with 14 games lost. B&W Opava will face USK Praha (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. BC Kolin will play against Basketbal Svitavy.
Top scorers:
B&W Opava: J.Kratochvil 16+13reb+2ast, O.Dygryn 14+4reb+5ast, J.Sirina 12+3reb+4ast, J.Blazek 12+11reb+2ast, M.Miklosik 10+6reb+1ast, M.Stec 9+5reb+5ast
BC Kolin: R.Field 10+3reb+1ast, R.Marko 10+5reb+2ast, D.Machac 10+4reb, J.Jelinek 9+5reb, M.Hubalek 6+1reb, B.Jones 4+1reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Terry SMITH
  BC Kolin
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 17.3

1. Smith, BC Kolin	17.3
2. Landry, BK Prost.	15.7
3. Burke, NH Ostrava	15.4
4. Horak, Svitavy	14.8
5. Hatcher, BK Decin	14.7
6. Kotas, USK Praha	14.6
7. Muirhead, Novy Jicin	14.2
8. Houska, BK Decin	14.1
9. Hampton, BK Pardu.	13.9
10. Spagrud, NH Ostrava	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Boris MENO
  Svitavy
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Meno, Basketbo.	10.4
2. Burke, NH Ostrava	9.1
3. Houska, BK Decin	8.8
4. Spagrud, NH Ostrava	8.6
5. Landry, BK Prost.	8.1
6. Arnold, BK Pardu.	8.0
7. Frana, Plzen	7.4
8. Kramny, Svitavy	7.2
9. Gadri, BK Prostejov	6.7
10. Klimes, USK Praha	6.4

Assists Per Game

Stepan VRUBL
  Plzen
  (186-G-76)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Vrubl, Plzen	5.9
2. Lawrence, BK Prost.	5.3
3. Carnecky, B&W O.	3.9
4. Hatcher, BK Decin	3.6
5. Kotas, USK Praha	3.6
6. Jones, BC Kolin	3.4
7. Channels, Novy Jicin	3.2
8. Sanders, BK Decin	3.0
9. Ubilla, Novy Jicin	2.8
10. Macela, Svitavy	2.8

Steals Per Game

Lukas KOTAS
  USK Praha
  (194-F-84)
  Avg: 2

1. Kotas, USK Praha	2.0
2. Wright, BK Pardu.	1.9
3. Hampton, BK Pardu.	1.8
4. Smith, BC Kolin	1.8
5. Holloway, Basket.	1.6
6. Sirina, B&W Opava	1.6
7. Channels, Novy Jicin	1.5
8. Field, BC Kolin	1.5
9. Gibson-B., NH Os.	1.4
10. Hruban, USK Praha	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Cezary TRYBANSKI
  NH Ostrava
  (218-C-79)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Trybanski, NH Os.	1.5
2. Miklosik, B&W O.	1.3
3. Hanke, USK Praha	1.1
4. Pelikan, Novy Jicin	1.0
5. Gadri, BK Prostejov	1.0
6. Kramny, Svitavy	1.0
7. Egwuatu, Svitavy	0.8
8. Houska, BK Decin	0.8
9. Meno, Basketbo.	0.8
10. Miles, BC Kolin	0.7

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

D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

Central Division
1. Iowa E.		35-12
2. Erie Bay H.		29-18
3. Ft.Wayne MA		22-25
4. Dakota W.		17-28
5. Sioux Falls S.		10-36
Southwest Division
1. Tulsa 66ers		31-16
2. Rio Grande		30-16
3. Texas L.		21-25
4. Austin T.		20-25
5. New Mexico		19-27
6. Maine RC		16-30
West Division
1. Reno Bighorns		30-16
2. Bakersfield J.		27-18
3. Utah F.		27-18
4. Idaho S.		21-25
5. Springfield A.		13-33

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 25.8

1. Johnson, Bakersfi.	25.8
2. Johnson, Erie B.	22.3
3. Jeffers, Iowa E.	21.1
4. Adrien, Rio Grande	19.9
5. Ewing, Sioux F.	19.9
6. McNeal, Rio Grande	19.7
7. Sims, Maine RC	19.6
8. Alexander, Texas L.	19.3
9. Dentmon, Texas L.	19.2
10. Stinson, Iowa E.	19.1

Rebounds Per Game

Jeff ADRIEN
  Golde State W.
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Adrien, Rio Grande	12.2
2. Ewing, Sioux F.	10.6
3. Davidson, Idaho S.	10.1
4. Sims, Iowa E.	9.6
5. Williams, Texas L.	9.4
6. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	9.3
7. Johnson, Dakota W.	9.2
8. Jeffers, Iowa E.	9.1
9. Alexander, Texas L.	8.8
10. Cousin, Austin T.	8.5

Assists Per Game

Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Stinson, Iowa E.	9.6
2. Miles, Reno Bighorns	8.7
3. Daniels, Texas L.	8.4
4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	7.9
5. Crittenton, Dakota W.	7.6
6. Jackson, Idaho S.	7.4
7. Jackson, Erie B.	6.6
8. Johnson, Austin T.	6.2
9. Reynolds, Spring.	5.7
10. Ahearn, Erie Bay H.	5.6

Steals Per Game

Javaris CRITTENTON
  Dakota W.
  (196-G-87)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Crittenton, Dakota W.	2.6
2. Miles, Reno Bighorns	2.5
3. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers	2.5
4. Lin, Reno Bighorns	2.1
5. Lofton, Iowa E.	2.1
6. Jackson, Idaho S.	2.1
7. Greene, Utah F.	2.0
8. Lafayette, Ft.Wayne.	2.0
9. Kramer, Ft.Wayne.	1.9
10. Shakur, Rio Grande	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Sean WILLIAMS
  Texas L.
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Williams, Texas L.	2.8
2. Johnson, Dakota W.	2.8
3. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers	2.4
4. Gaffney, Utah F.	2.3
5. Naymick, Bakersfi.	2.2
6. Whiteside, Reno B.	2.2
7. Fall, Maine RC	2.1
8. Gladness, Dakota W.	2.0
9. Atchley, Rio Grande	2.0
10. Alabi, Erie Bay H.	1.9

Hornets sign Patrick Ewing Jr. - by Eurobasket News
A day after losing star forward David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) for the season to a knee injury, the Hornets announced the signing of Patrick Ewing (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown) Jr.

Ewing Jr., the son of Hall of Fame center Patrick Ewing, was signed to a 10-day contract, according to team officials, though terms were not disclosed.

Ewing Jr. played 49 games with the Reno Bighorns and Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA Development League, averaging 17.7 points, 9.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists.

Courtesy of www.wwltv.com

Friday's games - by Eurobasket News
Sioux Falls S. - Reno Bighorns 82-92
The Reno Bighorns defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 92-82 at the Sioux Falls Arena on Friday night in front of 3,759 fans. Sioux Falls cut a 12-point fourth-quarter deficit to five points (83-78) with under five minutes to go in the game but Golden State Warriors assignee Jeremy Lin (6'3''-G-89, college: Harvard) scored nine points down the stretch to help Reno pick up their first-ever win in Sioux Falls. Sioux Falls (10-36) took an early 6-4 lead but it would end up being their only lead of the game. Reno led 33-23 after the first quarter and 57-49 at halftime. Reno (30-16) still led by eight points (73-65) after the third quarter as both teams struggled from the field. Sioux Falls made 7-of-25 field goals (28.0 percent) while Reno only converted 4-of-19 field goals (21.1 percent). Mo Charlo's jumper with 10:09 to go in the game gave Reno their largest lead of the game at 77-65. Dominique Coleman made a 3-pointer to get Sioux Falls with five points but Reno held on to win their fourth straight contest. Lin had a solid all-around game with 20 points, six rebounds, five assists, three steals off the bench. Patrick O'Bryant recorded a double-double with 19 points and 16 rebounds while Salim Stoudamire contributed 12. Raymond Sykes (6'9''-F/C-86, college: Clemson) posted team-highs in points (17), rebounds (7) and blocks (3). Keaton Grant scored 14 points while Dominique Coleman and Sean Marshall added 10 points apiece in defeat. *Courtesy of www.keloland.com

Erie Bay H. - Iowa E. 101-124
Having Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) back wasn't enough against the D-League's top team Friday night. After coach Jay Larranaga didn't play the D-League MVP candidate Thursday night, Johnson had 33 points in his return, but the Erie BayHawks were trounced by the Iowa Energy 124-101 before a crowd of 3,630. 'They basically did what they wanted,' Larranaga said. 'We allowed them to play their game.' Point guard Curtis Stinson (6'2''-G-83, college: Iowa St.) had 33 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists to lead Iowa (35-12), which clinched the top seed for next month's playoffs. *Courtesy of www.goerie.com

Tulsa 66ers - Texas L. 85-105
The Texas Legends used one of their best defensive performances of the season to take down the Western Conference leading Tulsa 66ers 105-85 on Friday night inside the Tulsa Convention Center. The win helped the Legends keep pace with the three other teams fighting for the eighth and final playoff spot. With four games left on the schedule, Texas remains a half game back of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, while they are now tied with the Idaho Stampede and a half game up on the Austin Toros. The 85 points for Tulsa was the lowest point total that the Legends have surrendered this season. After Tulsa jumped out to a 7-0 lead, Texas came right back to even the game at seven and went into the second quarter on top 25-22. Ronald Allen (6'10''-F/C-84, college: Cincinnati) sparked a huge second period for the Legends by dropping in 11 points in the quarter (his previous season high for a game was 11), and nine points in the second that were part of a 12-2 run that saw the Texas lead stretch from one to eleven. The Legends took a 46-38 lead into the locker room at the break. Allen finished the half with 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting. Byron Mullens (7'0''-C-89, college: Ohio St.) led Tulsa in the opening half and nearly earned a double-double with 14 points and nine boards. The Legends kept the pressure on the 66ers in the second half and used a 20-6 run in the third quarter to take a demanding 21-point lead. Texas would extend their lead to as many as 26 points in the fourth quarter on their way to the huge road victory, the Legends first win in Tulsa in franchise history. Allen led six double-digit scorers for Texas with a season-high 19 points, while Sean Williams contributed his 18th double-double of the year with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Mullens was the lone bright spot for Tulsa with a season-high 31 points and 12 boards in the loss. With the win the Legends improved to 21-25, while the 66ers dropped to 31-16. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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

ESTONIA

Standings - KML

EMKL Standings

1. Kalev/Cramo		28-3
2. TU/Rock		27-3
3. TTU/Kalev		24-7
4. Rakvere		15-16
5. Valga/CKE		13-18
6. Rapla		13-18
7. TTU/Kalev II		10-21
8. Parnu		8-23
9. Voru KK		1-30

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Curtis ALLEN
  Voru KK
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 18.8

1. Allen, Voru KK	18.8
2. Thornton, Voru KK	18.7
3. Saage, Rakvere	18.1
4. Erm, Rapla	17.2
5. Raap, Parnu	16.6
6. Brown, Va.	16.5
7. Raadik, Parnu	16.2
8. Arnold, TT.	15.8
9. Osby, TT.	14.7
10. Hall, Rakvere	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Thornton, Voru KK	12.2
2. Brown, Va.	11.5
3. Arnold, TT.	10.9
4. Allen, Voru KK	10.4
5. Ringmets, Rapla	9.8
6. Osby, TT.	9.4
7. Kuuba, Voru KK	8.9
8. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	8.3
9. Pokla, Rakvere	7.4
10. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.	7.1

Assists Per Game

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

1. Kriisa, TT.	3.7
2. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo	3.5
3. Sokk, TU/Rock	3.5
4. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo	2.9
5. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock	2.9
6. Oja, Va.	2.8
7. Allen, Voru KK	2.8
8. Pokla, Rakvere	2.7
9. Dorbek, Rakvere	2.6
10. Laane, Rapla	2.6

Steals Per Game

Armands SKELE
  Kalev/Cramo
  (192-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Skele, Kalev/Cramo	2.5
2. Laane, Rapla	2.3
3. Saage, Rakvere	2.2
4. Raap, Parnu	2.2
5. Leppik, TU/Rock	2.2
6. Karner, Parnu	2.1
7. Doronin, TU/Rock	1.9
8. Allen, Voru KK	1.9
9. Oja, Va.	1.9
10. Dorbek, Rakvere	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	1.8
2. Osby, TT.	1.4
3. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.	1.2
4. Raadik, Parnu	1.2
5. Allen, Voru KK	1.0
6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	0.9
7. Arnold, TT.	0.9
8. Raadik, TU/Rock	0.8
9. Brown, Va.	0.8
10. Saarmets, TTU/K.	0.7

EMKL Round 31: TTU/Kalev beats TTU/Kalev II in a derby game - by Eurobasket News
There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in EMKL.

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Tallinn: TTU/Kalev (#3) and TTU/Kalev II (#7). TTU/Kalev II was crushed at home by 28 points 62-90 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The game without a history. TTU/Kalev 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 TTU/Kalev II's 32. They also forced 20 TTU/Kalev II turnovers. Guard Margus Klementsov (169-G-89) fired 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. The former international power forward Kristjan Makke (205-81, college: W.Illinois) chipped in 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. TTU/Kalev have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain third place with 24-7 record having four points less than leader Kalev/Cramo. TTU/Kalev II lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 21 games lost. TTU/Kalev are looking forward to face Rapla (#6) at home in the next round. TTU/Kalev II will have a break next round.
An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Tartu. Second ranked TU/Rock faced 4th placed BC Rakvere. Host TU/Rock (27-3) defeated guests from Rakvere (15-16) 88-72. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Callistus Eziukwu (208-85, college: Grand Valley St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 18 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field). Rain Veideman contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Matthew Hall (191-86, college: Stonehill) answered with 20 points and 6 rebounds for BC Rakvere. BC Rakvere's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Defending champion maintains second place with 27-3 record behind leader Kalev/Cramo. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the fourth position with 16 games lost. TU/Rock will play against league's leader Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. BC Rakvere will play at home against Voru KK and hopes to get back on the winning track.

Other games of round 31 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
TTU/Kalev II was defeated by Rapla in a road game 91-77. Valga/CKE beat Rapla at home 76-59. Valga/CKE was destroyed by TTU/Kalev on the opponent's court 89-66.

Rapla - TTU/Kalev II 91-77

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 7th ranked TTU/Kalev II's (10-21) road loss to sixth ranked Rapla (13-18) 77-91. The game was mostly controlled by Rapla. TTU/Kalev II was better in second period 27-26. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Raido Ringmets (204-83) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Swingman Rannar Raap (187-92) contributed with 20 points and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. Four Rapla players scored in double figures. American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) answered with 22 points and 9 rebounds and guard Siim Raudla (179-90) added 12 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for TTU/Kalev II. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Rapla moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Valga/CKE. TTU/Kalev II lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 21 games lost. Rapla will play against higher ranked TTU/Kalev (#3) in Tallinn in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. TTU/Kalev II will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Rapla: R.Raap 20+3reb+4ast, R.Ringmets 14+11reb+2ast, H.Erm 12+4reb+5ast, I.Kajupank 12+3reb+2ast, M.Parn 9+2reb, R.Laane 8+3reb+3ast
TTU/Kalev II: A.Arnold 22+9reb+3ast, S.Raudla 12+12reb+4ast, K.Keres 10+3reb+1ast, K.Akenparg 8+3reb+3ast, M.Paiste 8+4reb, M.Saarmets 7+7reb+1ast

TU/Rock - Rakvere 88-72

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Tartu. Second ranked TU/Rock faced 4th placed BC Rakvere. Host TU/Rock (27-3) defeated guests from Rakvere (15-16) 88-72. The game was mostly controlled by TU/Rock. BC Rakvere was better in second period 25-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 19-of-23 charity shots (82.6 percent) during the game. TU/Rock outrebounded BC Rakvere 55-33 including a 39-26 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Callistus Eziukwu (208-85, college: Grand Valley St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 24 points and 18 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field). International guard Rain Veideman (192-91) contributed with 17 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Matthew Hall (191-86, college: Stonehill) answered with 20 points and 6 rebounds and Latvian forward Ivars Timermanis (202-82, agency: Alti Sport) added 14 points in the effort for BC Rakvere. BC Rakvere's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Defending champion maintains second place with 27-3 record behind leader Kalev/Cramo. BC Rakvere at the other side keeps the fourth position with 16 games lost. TU/Rock will play against league's leader Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. BC Rakvere will play at home against Voru KK and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
TU/Rock: C.Eziukwu 24+18reb+1ast, S.Sokk 17+3reb+2ast, R.Veideman 17+5reb+2ast, G.Tsintsadze 9+7reb+5ast, V.Allingu 6+6reb, M.Doronin 4
Rakvere: M.Hall 20+6reb+1ast, I.Timermanis 14+4reb, R.Vaikulis 10+4reb+2ast, J.Vahter 8+5reb, M.Dorbek 7+1reb+3ast, V.Viljar 6+2reb+1ast

TTU/Kalev II - TTU/Kalev 62-90

The most exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Tallinn: TTU/Kalev (#3) and TTU/Kalev II (#7). TTU/Kalev II was crushed at home by 28 points 62-90 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The game without a history. TTU/Kalev 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 TTU/Kalev II's 32. They also forced 20 TTU/Kalev II turnovers. Guard Margus Klementsov (169-89) fired 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners. The former international power forward Kristjan Makke (205-81, college: W.Illinois) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Five TTU/Kalev players scored in double figures. American center Andrew Arnold (208-86, college: Lewis-Clark) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds and forward Kiur Akenparg (190-88) added 17 points respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. TTU/Kalev have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain third place with 24-7 record having four points less than leader Kalev/Cramo. TTU/Kalev II lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 21 games lost. TTU/Kalev are looking forward to face Rapla (#6) at home in the next round. TTU/Kalev II will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
TTU/Kalev: M.Klementsov 18+6reb+3ast, K.Makke 15+10reb, M.Kaja 11+8reb, A.Parn 10+6reb, C.Archibald 10+1reb+3ast, S.Tomingas 8+1reb
TTU/Kalev II: K.Akenparg 17+4reb, M.Paiste 12+6reb, A.Arnold 11+12reb+2ast, S.Raudla 7+9reb+1ast, I.Tulit 6+6reb+1ast, M.Saarmets 3+2reb

Valga/CKE - Rapla 76-59

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fifth ranked Valga/CKE's (13-18) home victory over 6th ranked Rapla (13-18) 76-59. The game was mostly controlled by Valga/CKE. Rapla was better in fourth quarter 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Rapla 44-19 including a 35-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Rapla was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for American forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international swingman Veljo Vares (200-81) contributed with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Four Valga/CKE players scored in double figures. Swingman Rannar Raap (187-92) answered with 13 points and swingman Heigo Erm (190-80) added 9 points in the effort for Rapla. Rapla's coach Indrek Ruut tested ten players seeing no chance for a win. Valga/CKE have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 13-18 record, which they share with defeated Rapla. Valga/CKE will play against KK Parnu (#8) on the road in the next round. Rapla will play against TTU/Kalev in Tallinn and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Valga/CKE: V.Vares 15+10reb+1ast, T.Oja 14+4reb+3ast, D.Winston 14+4reb+2ast, A.Brown 14+12reb+6ast, A.Tagamets 9+9reb+1ast, A.Vasar 6+3reb+2ast
Rapla: R.Raap 13+4reb+2ast, H.Erm 9+3reb+3ast, I.Kajupank 8+1reb+1ast, M.Parn 7, A.Antson 6+1reb, S.Kaldre 6

TTU/Kalev - Valga/CKE 89-66

Rather expected game in Tallinn where 5th ranked Valga/CKE (13-18) was rolled over by third ranked TTU/Kalev (24-7) 89-66. The game was mostly controlled by TTU/Kalev. Valga/CKE was better in second period 24-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. TTU/Kalev dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Valga/CKE's 36. TTU/Kalev forced 20 Valga/CKE turnovers and outrebounded them 51-40 including 18 on the offensive glass. They brought some defensive toughness making 10 blocks. It was a very good performance for American-DR Congolese forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds. The former international forward Mooses Kaja (195-88) contributed with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Osby is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four TTU/Kalev players scored in double figures. TTU/Kalev's coach Ullar Kerde felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Derek Winston (185-87, college: Oklahoma I.) answered with 26 points and the other American import forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) added 11 points and 15 rebounds in the effort for Valga/CKE. TTU/Kalev have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain third place with 24-7 record having four points less than leader Kalev/Cramo. Valga/CKE at the other side keeps the fifth position with 18 games lost. They share it with Rapla. TTU/Kalev will play against Rapla (#6) at home in the next round. Valga/CKE will play against KK Parnu and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
TTU/Kalev: B.Osby 16+12reb+2ast, M.Kaja 16+10reb+1ast, M.Kurg 12+4reb+2ast, A.Parn 10+4reb, S.Tomingas 7+1reb, C.Archibald 6+4reb
Valga/CKE: D.Winston 26+3reb+1ast, A.Brown 11+15reb+1ast, K.Koolman 8+7reb, R.Rebane 6+3reb, A.Vasar 6+5reb, A.Hallik 4+2reb

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

EUROLEAGUE

Caja Laboral returns Dejan Musli from Montegranaro - by Eurobasket News
Dejan Musli (214-C-91) is back to Caja Laboral. The Spanish champion decided to recall Musli from Italian Montegranaro, where he was sent on loan two months ago. However, Musli didn't appear in any official game with Montegranaro due to illness. With Caja Laboral he had limited playing time at the beginning of the season.
Caja Laboral can not count on Pape Sow (illness) and Nemanja Bjelica (injury).

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

FINLAND

Tampereen Pyrinto wins the Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in Korisliiga just ended. There were many interesting games last round. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most exciting game of round 44 in the Korisliiga took place in Kouvola. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Torpan Pojat (21-23) to sixth ranked Kouvot (24-20) 84-81 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Torpan Pojat. Torpan Pojat was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 18-14 charge of Kouvot, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was guard Antto Nikkarinen (185-91) who scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. The former international forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) chipped in 13 points and 13 rebounds. American forward LaVell Blanchard (201-81, college: Michigan, agency: Beo Basket) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds for the guests. Kouvot have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain sixth position with 24-20 record. Torpan Pojat at the other side keeps the eighth place with 23 games lost.

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Joensuun Kataja (30-14) against fourth ranked UU-Korihait (28-16) on Saturday night. Visiting Joensuun Kataja was defeated by UU-Korihait in a tough game in Uusikaupunki 102-110. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Joensuun Kataja. American forward Lawrence Wright (195-84, college: Bradley) orchestrated the victory by scoring 31 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Nigel Moore contributed with 28 points and 12 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) for the winners. International guard Petri Virtanen (183-80) replied with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists for Joensuun Kataja. UU-Korihait maintains fourth position with 28-16 record. Joensuun Kataja at the other side dropped to the third place with 14 games lost.

Bottom-ranked Porvoon Tarmo managed to get a sixth victory, breaking the eight-game losing streak on Saturday night. This time newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo won against seventh-ranked Kauhajoen Karhu 92-86. Worth to mention a great performance of Jonathan Heard who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 44 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds. Porvoon Tarmo's coach Jouni Gronroos used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Steffan Johnson responded with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo maintains twelfth position with 6-38 record. Loser Kauhajoen Karhu keeps the seventh place with 22 games lost.

Leader Tampereen Pyrinto delivered the 37th victory. This time they crushed 9th ranked Namika Lahti (17-27) 108-60. The game was dominated by American players. The winners were led by Damon Williams who scored that evening 22 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Tampereen Pyrinto's coach Pieti Poikola felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Tampereen Pyrinto (37-7) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Namika Lahti lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 27 games lost.

The game in Espoo was also quite interesting. Third ranked KTP-Basket (31-13) played at the court of 5th ranked Espoo Honka (25-19). KTP-Basket defeated Espoo Honka 99-89 on Saturday. The best player for the winners was Jerald Fields who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. KTP-Basket's coach Ray Ailus allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. KTP-Basket moved-up to second place. Loser Espoo Honka keeps the fifth position with 19 games lost.
In the last game of round 44 Salon Vilpas was crushed by LrNMKY in Lappeenranta 100-71.

Kouvot - ToPo 84-81

The most exciting game of round 44 in the Korisliiga took place in Kouvola. This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of 8th ranked Torpan Pojat (21-23) to sixth ranked Kouvot (24-20) 84-81 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Torpan Pojat. Torpan Pojat was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 18-14 charge of Kouvot, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was guard Antto Nikkarinen (185-91) who scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. The former international forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds. American forward LaVell Blanchard (201-81, college: Michigan, agency: Beo Basket) produced a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds and forward Timo Heinonen (198-81) added 18 points respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Kouvot have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain sixth position with 24-20 record. Torpan Pojat at the other side keeps the eighth place with 23 games lost.

ToPo: T.Heinonen 18+3reb+1ast, M.Koivisto 17+3reb, T.Pearson 15+5reb+1ast, L.Blanchard 10+13reb, M.Pounds 9+6reb+3ast, F.Richards 8+3reb
Kouvot: A.Nikkarinen 21+7reb+2ast, B.Walker 20+3reb+1ast, J.Gonner 20+3reb+3ast, V.Kaunisto 13+13reb+2ast, D.Vinson 8+10reb+1ast, A.Perttu 2+1reb+1ast

Namika Lahti - Pyrinto 60-108

Leader Tampereen Pyrinto delivered the 37th victory. This time they crushed 9th ranked Namika Lahti (17-27) 108-60. It looked good early as Namika Lahti took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Tampereen Pyrinto had a 39-13 second period charge getting the lead and Namika Lahti was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 60-108. They outrebounded Namika Lahti 43-31 including a 33-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. Tampereen Pyrinto shot the lights out from three nailing 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. The game was dominated by American players. The winners were led by forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) who scored that evening 22 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) supported him with 19 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals. Four Tampereen Pyrinto players scored in double figures. Tampereen Pyrinto's coach Pieti Poikola felt very confident that he used 10 players and allowed the starting five to rest. Even 19 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists by guard Ryan Ayers (201-86, college: Notre Dame) did not help to save the game for Namika Lahti. Forward Anthony Vereen (201-86, college: Texas Arlington) added 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the hosts. Tampereen Pyrinto (37-7) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position. Namika Lahti lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 27 games lost.

Top scorers:
Namika Lahti: A.Vereen 20+7reb+5ast, R.Ayers 19+8reb+5ast, V.Makalainen 7+2reb+1ast, V.Heinonen 4+2reb, V.Streng 4+3reb, R.Suonio 4+4reb+1ast
Pyrinto: D.Williams 22+8reb+5ast, A.Williams 19+5reb+7ast, K.Lowe 19+5reb+2ast, J.Harjula 11+3reb+2ast, A.Lehto 11+3reb, A.Nikkila 9+10reb+1ast

Tarmo - Karhu 92-86

Bottom-ranked Porvoon Tarmo managed to get a sixth victory, breaking the eight-game losing streak on Saturday night. This time newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo won against seventh-ranked Kauhajoen Karhu 92-86. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 25-19. But Kauhajoen Karhu won second period 25-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of American swingman Jonathan Heard (198-86) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 44 points (!!!) and 14 rebounds and forward Esa Maki-Tulokas (200-82, college: LIU Brooklyn) who added 12 points and 4 assists during the contest. Porvoon Tarmo's coach Jouni Gronroos used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Steffan Johnson (185-87, college: Idaho) responded with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and international forward Vesa Makalainen (200-86) scored 14 points and 7 rebounds. Five Kauhajoen Karhu players scored in double figures. Newly promoted Porvoon Tarmo maintains twelfth position with 6-38 record. Loser Kauhajoen Karhu keeps the seventh place with 22 games lost.

Top scorers:
Karhu: S.Johnson 18+6reb+5ast, W.Baxley 17+4reb, V.Makalainen 14+7reb+2ast, E.Skamo 14+7reb+2ast, S.Niskanen 13+4reb, A.Huuskonen 4+4reb+4ast
Tarmo: J.Heard 44+14reb+1ast, E.Maki-Tulokas 12+4reb+4ast, J.Petteri Mantyla 8, E.Oikari 8+7reb+1ast, J.Kyllonen 6+2reb+6ast, J.Wickholm 4+1reb

Korihait - Kataja 110-102

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Joensuun Kataja (30-14) against fourth ranked UU-Korihait (28-16) on Saturday night. Visiting Joensuun Kataja was defeated by UU-Korihait in a tough game in Uusikaupunki 102-110. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Joensuun Kataja. Joensuun Kataja was ahead by 8 points after three quarters before a 28-20 charge of UU-Korihait, which allowed them to win the game. They made 18-of-21 charity shots (85.7 percent) during the game. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. American forward Lawrence Wright (195-84, college: Bradley) orchestrated the victory by scoring 31 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. The other American import swingman Nigel Moore (195-81, college: Alabama A&M) contributed with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 12 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) for the winners. International guard Petri Virtanen (183-80) replied with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists and American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) added 28 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Joensuun Kataja. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. UU-Korihait maintains fourth position with 28-16 record. Joensuun Kataja at the other side dropped to the third place with 14 games lost.

Top scorers:
Kataja: J.Newson 28+5reb+1ast, P.Virtanen 23+5reb+8ast, A.Kanervo 15+1reb+4ast, J.Nenonen 10+5reb+1ast, D.Fells 10+8reb, S.Lehtoranta 10+3reb+1ast
Korihait: L.Wright 31+9reb+4ast, N.Moore 28+12reb+2ast, M.Jalonen 14+1reb, J.Kumpulainen 13+5reb, B.Sarcevic 13+7reb+4ast, J.Reaves 11+1reb

LrNMKY - Salon Vilpas 100-71

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Lappeenranta where 10th ranked Salon Vilpas (13-31) was crushed by eleventh ranked LrNMKY (10-34) 100-71 on Saturday. The game without a history. LrNMKY led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 19-of-23 free shots (82.6 percent) during the game. LrNMKY outrebounded Salon Vilpas 46-26 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American guard Malik Moore (192-77, college: Amer.Internat., agency: Prossin Sports Management) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. The other American import guard James Lewis (191-86, college: Fresno Pacific) chipped in 32 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Matti Nuutinen (200-90) produced 13 points and 9 rebounds and the former international forward Jukka Kataja (197-82) added 16 points respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. LrNMKY maintains eleventh position with 10-34 record. Salon Vilpas lost eighth consecutive game. They keep the tenth place with 31 games lost.

Top scorers:
Salon Vilpas: J.Kataja 16+4reb+2ast, J.Savolainen 15+2reb+2ast, M.Nuutinen 13+9reb+1ast, T.Tenkanen 11+2reb+3ast, R.Ahonen 9+3reb+1ast, L.Tiainen 4+2ast
LrNMKY: J.Lewis 32+6reb+1ast, M.Moore 26+13reb+5ast, H.Coleman 16+11reb, V.Pekkola 10+8reb+3ast, V.Kaijansinkko 8+2reb, T.Kulha 6+4reb+1ast

Honka - KTP 89-99

The game in Espoo was also quite interesting. Third ranked KTP-Basket (31-13) played at the court of 5th ranked Espoo Honka (25-19). KTP-Basket defeated Espoo Honka 99-89 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 99-89. KTP-Basket dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Espoo Honka's 38 and made 21-of-24 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game. KTP-Basket had a 29-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American forward Jerald Fields (201-82, college: E.Tenn.St., agency: Lanshire Group) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 10 rebounds. Canadian forward Sefton Barrett (196-83, college: Cent.Michigan, agency: Limelight Hoops) chipped in 26 points (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!). KTP-Basket's coach Ray Ailus allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American center John Williamson (198-86, college: Cincinnati) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 12 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Jamar Wilson (185-84, college: Albany) added 25 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. KTP-Basket moved-up to second place. Loser Espoo Honka keeps the fifth position with 19 games lost.

Top scorers:
Honka: J.Wilson 25+5reb+1ast, J.Williamson 20+12reb, V.Kopio 14+3reb+2ast, J.Matinen 8+2reb+1ast, J.Helenius 7+2reb, S.Vanttaja 5
KTP: S.Barrett 26+1reb+2ast, J.Ivey 23+2reb+2ast, J.Fields 20+10reb+3ast, M.Holme 8+1reb, J.Eskola 8+4reb+1ast, C.Jones 7+5reb+3ast

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Pyrinto		37-7
2. KTP		31-13
3. Kataja		30-14
4. Korihait		28-16
5. Honka		25-19
6. Kouvot		24-20
7. Karhu		22-22
8. ToPo		21-23
9. Namika Lahti		17-27
10. Salon Vilpas		13-31
11. LrNMKY		10-34
12. Tarmo		6-38

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Jamar WILSON
  Honka
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.3

1. Wilson, Honka	22.3
2. Heard, Tarmo	21.9
3. Wood, Karhu	20.6
4. Lewis, LrNM.	20.5
5. Walker, Kouvot	19.7
6. Williamson, Honka	19.6
7. Bailey, LrNM.	19.6
8. Barrett, KTP	19.4
9. Blanchard, ToPo	19.3
10. Williams, Pyrinto	18.8

Rebounds Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 12.9

1. Wood, Karhu	12.9
2. Kaunisto, Kouvot	10.7
3. Doaks, Salon Vilpas	10.1
4. Mathis, Namika Lahti	9.9
5. Young, Tarmo	9.6
6. Williams, Pyrinto	9.5
7. Blanchard, ToPo	9.2
8. Vinson, Kouvot	9.0
9. Coleman, LrNM.	8.8
10. Belser, Honka	8.4

Assists Per Game

Malik MOORE
  LrNMKY
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Moore, LrNM.	4.8
2. Johnson, Karhu	4.7
3. Williams, Pyrinto	4.4
4. Suonio, Namika Lahti	4.3
5. Virtanen, Kataja	4.3
6. Wood, Karhu	4.0
7. Ivey, KTP	3.6
8. Fields, KTP	3.5
9. Sarcevic, Korihait	3.5
10. Okorie, Salon Vilpas	3.2

Steals Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Wood, Karhu	2.2
2. Fields, KTP	2.1
3. Moore, Korihait	1.9
4. Conerly, Tarmo	1.8
5. Williams, Pyrinto	1.8
6. Sarcevic, Korihait	1.8
7. Heard, Tarmo	1.7
8. Newson, Kataja	1.7
9. Fells, Kataja	1.7
10. Williams, Pyrinto	1.6

Blocks Per Game

James REAVES
  Korihait
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 0.9

1. Reaves, Korihait	0.9
2. Hendley, Namika Lahti	0.7
3. Heard, Tarmo	0.7
4. Bailey, LrNM.	0.7
5. Makalainen, Karhu	0.6
6. Belser, Honka	0.6
7. Suonio, Namika Lahti	0.6
8. Young, Tarmo	0.6
9. Wright, Korihait	0.6
10. Baxley, Karhu	0.6

KORISLIIGA: The regular season is in the package - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 44: The regular season is in package. During the last (44) round Pyrinto (Tampere) crushed YMCA Lahti on the road 60-108, Korihait (Uusikaupunki) needed an OT to defeat Kataja (Joensuu) 110-102, Honka (Espoo) lost at home vs KTP (Kotka) 89-99, Kouvot (Kouvola) beat Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) 84-81, YMCA Lappeenranta was 29 pts better (100-71) than Vilpas (Salo) and Tarmo (Porvoo) upset Karhu (Kauhajoki) 92-86 in the game, where American Jonathan Heard (198-G/F-86) (Tarmo) scored his season high 44 points, grabbed 14 rebounds and blocked six shots. The eight best teams make the play-off-games. In the first round the following teams will meet eachother: Pyrinto - Torpan Pojat, KTP - Kauhajoki, Kataja - Kouvot and Korihait - Honka.
Korihait - Kataja OT 110-102 (95) (41-50). (Lawrence Wright 31, Nigel Moore 28/12, Mikko Jalonen 14 - Jared Newson 28, Petri Virtanen 23, Antti Kanervo 15).
YMCA Lappeenranta - Vilpas 100-71 (47-29). (James Lewis 32, Malik Moore 26/13, HL Coleman 16/11 - Jukka Kataja 16, Jussi Savolainen 15, Matti Nuutinen 13).
Honka - KTP 89-99 (46-50). (Jamar Wilson 25, John Williamson 20/12, Villematti Kopio 14 - Sefton Barrett 26, Jeb Ivey 23, Jerald Fields 20/10).
Kouvot - Torpan Pojat 84-81 (46-42). (Antto Nikkarinen 21, Josh Gonner 20, BA Walker 20 - Timo Heinonen 18, Mikko Koivisto 17, Tyray Pearson 15).
YMCA Lahti - Pyrinto 60-108 (30-54). (Anthony Vereen 20/5a, Ryan Ayeurs 19/5a, Valtteri Makalainen 7 - Damon Williams 22/5a, Anthony Williams 19/7a, Kenneth Lowe 19).
Tarmo - Kauhajoki 92-86 (49-44). (Jonathan Heard 44/14/6b, Esa Maki-Tulokas 12, Eemil Oikari 8 - Steffan Johnson 18/5a, Walt Baxley 17, Eldar Skamo 14).

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

FRANCE

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

1. Cholet		18-5
2. Chalon		16-7
3. Nancy		16-7
4. Gravelines		15-7
5. Roanne		15-8
6. Hyeres-Toulon		14-9
7. ASVEL		12-10
8. Pau-Lacq-Orthez		11-12
9. Le Mans		10-13
10. Strasbourg		10-13
11. Le Havre		9-14
12. Orleans		9-14
13. Paris-Levallois		8-15
14. Poitierarleys		8-15
15. Limoges		6-17
16. Vichy		6-17

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

1. Nanterre		19-8
2. Rouen		18-9
3. Evreux		17-10
4. Dijon		16-11
5. Fos Ouest		16-11
6. Maurienne		16-11
7. Boulogne		15-12
8. Le Portel		15-12
9. Boulazac		14-13
10. Bourg		14-13
11. Chalons-Reims		14-13
12. Nantes		12-15
13. Antibes		11-16
14. St Vallier		11-16
15. Lille		11-16
16. Quimper		10-17
17. Clermont		8-19
18. Charleville		6-21

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Demetris NICHOLS
  Vichy
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 18.3

1. Nichols, Vichy	18.3
2. Mejia, Cholet	17.9
3. Darden, Nancy	17.7
4. Massie, Limoges	17.3
5. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	17.2
6. Jefferson, AS.	16.9
7. Woodside, Gravelines	16.0
8. King, Le Havre	15.8
9. Hamilton, Paris-.	15.7
10. Haynes, Chalon	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-F/C-77)
  Avg: 9.1

1. Massie, Limoges	9.1
2. Krupalija, Hyeres.	8.9
3. Issa, Gravelines	8.5
4. Jones, Le Havre	8.5
5. Akingbala, Nancy	8.5
6. Koffi, Le Mans	7.6
7. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.	7.3
8. Elegar, Vichy	7.3
9. Jefferson, AS.	7.2
10. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	7.1

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Rouen
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Reid, Vichy	6.3
2. King, Le Havre	6.2
3. Linehan, Nancy	6.2
4. Woodside, Gravelines	6.0
5. Wright, Limoges	5.9
6. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	5.6
7. Walsh, AS.	5.1
8. Diabate, Roanne	5.0
9. Sciarra, Pau-La.	4.7
10. Schilb, Chalon	4.6

Steals Per Game

John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Linehan, Nancy	3.6
2. Diot, Le Mans	2.4
3. Walsh, AS.	2.3
4. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.	2.2
5. Darden, Nancy	2.0
6. Albicy, Paris-Le.	1.8
7. Diabate, Roanne	1.7
8. Sangare, Le Havre	1.7
9. Elegar, Vichy	1.7
10. Greer, Strasbourg	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Gravelines
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Akpomedah, Grave.	1.7
2. Issa, Gravelines	1.6
3. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	1.4
4. Jefferson, AS.	1.3
5. Akingbala, Nancy	1.3
6. Falker, Cholet	1.3
7. Sene, Gravelines	1.3
8. Koffi, Le Mans	1.2
9. Pasco, Strasbourg	1.2
10. Wilkinson, Le Havre	1.1

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Moses SONKO
  Maurienne
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 19

1. Sonko, Maurienne	19.0
2. Siggers, Rouen	18.7
3. Harris, Lille	18.4
4. Carter, Nanterre	17.9
5. Milbourne, Boulogne	16.5
6. Gay, Fos Ouest	16.4
7. Rouse, Charleville	16.1
8. Watson, Evreux	15.7
9. Davis, Le Portel	15.6
10. Daniels, Nanterre	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Korvotney BARBER
  Nantes
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Barber, Nantes	10.3
2. Mathis, Maurienne	9.8
3. Daniels, Chalons-.	9.8
4. Bing, Dijon	8.9
5. Rouse, Charleville	8.5
6. Monds, Bourg	8.4
7. Wyatte, Le Portel	8.2
8. Monroe, Boulogne	8.2
9. Badiane, Boulazac	7.9
10. Giles, Rouen	7.9

Assists Per Game

Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 8.1

1. Da Silva, Evreux	8.1
2. Rowland, Le Portel	6.3
3. Downey, Nantes	6.0
4. Patiejunas, Boulo.	5.6
5. Williams, Le Portel	5.0
6. Taylor, Rouen	5.0
7. Denave, St Vallier	4.7
8. Craven, Dijon	4.7
9. Mullins, Chalons-.	4.6
10. Oliver, Bourg	4.5

Steals Per Game

Jara DOYNE
  Falco-Szova
  (193-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Doyne, Charleville	2.6
2. Daniels, Chalons-.	2.6
3. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.6
4. Sonko, Maurienne	2.4
5. Riley, Nanterre	2.4
6. Patiejunas, Boulo.	2.3
7. Craven, Dijon	2.3
8. Mullins, Chalons-.	2.1
9. Mathis, Maurienne	2.0
10. Hachad, Fos Ouest	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.9
2. Jefferson, Quimper	1.4
3. Barber, Nantes	1.0
4. N''Diaye, Clermont	0.9
5. Monds, Bourg	0.9
6. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9
7. Davis, Evreux	0.8
8. Taccoen, Lille	0.8
9. Daniels, Nanterre	0.8
10. Daniels, Chalons-.	0.7

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

GERMANY

Bryan Bailey (Artland Dragons) Pregame Thoughts To Walter Tigers Tuebingen Game March 26th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Bryan Bailey (185-G-80, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Bucknell) is a 30 year old 185cm combo guard that will his 9th professional basketball season and playing his fourth with The Artland Dragons. He is a true team leader both on and off the court. He possesses a diverse game, with an ability to stroke the long-range jumper, penetrate to the rim or distribute the ball. He is solid on the defensive end of the floor as well. His fierce competitive drive rubs off on his teammates. He started his professional basketball career at Bucknell and player there from 1998-2002 and in his senior year played 17games averaging 18.1ppg,5.3rpg,2.4apg. He made All-Patriot League 1st Team in 2001 and 2002. In 2002-2003, he started his professional basketball season in Germany with DJK S. Oliver Wurzburg (Germany-1Bundesliga, starting five): 26 games, 15.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.4spg. In 2003-2004, he played in Holland for Landstede Zwolle (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 35 games: 17.5ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.1apg, 2.4spg, 0.2bpg. He then played with The Artland Dragons from 2004-2007 reaching the league and cup final in 2007. His best statistical season was 2005-2006 playing 33 games and averaging 11.4ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 46.9%, 3PT: 25.3%. In 2007-2008, he played with Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (Bosnia-D1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 10.3ppg, 2.3rpg, 4.5apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 20.8%, FT: 84.3%. In 2008-2009, he played in Poland for PGE Turow Zgorzelec (Poland-DBE): Eurocup: 6 games: 7.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.7apg, 1.7spg; Polish League: 32 games: 8.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.8apg, FGP: 51.9%, 3PT: 32.4%, FT: 77.0%. Last season, he played with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg playing Euroleague: 4 games: 8.3ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.8apg; German League: 6 games: 9.3ppg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 89.7%. He sat down and spoke with Eurobasket before the game against The Walter Tigers Tuebingen march 27th

The Artland Dragons are on a 4 game winning streak. Is the team ready going into the BEKO BBL cup weekend next weekend? What has team improved most in win streak?

We are ready and looking forward to the Top 4. During these last couple of games, we did a good job of coming out with high intensity to start the second half of games. We need to start games with better focus and keep our intensity high for 40 minutes.

The next game is against The Walter Tigers Tuebingen. What has been your impression of the team? They have played well, but with their untimely 4 game losing streak seem to be along shot for the playoffs.

Tuebingen is a good team and they play extremely well at home. They've had a few losses in a row and will be motivated to get a win.

What do you remember from the 93-66 win earlier in the season?

It was a close game after the first quarter and we extended our lead in the 2nd quarter. We did a good job a taking care of the ball and executed our offense by moving the ball.

It seems like when Bane Ratkovica is stopped, Tuebingen has little chance of winning. Will that be a big focus for Artland this weekend to keep him in check?

Our focus will definitely be on the defensive end and getting stops. Ratkovica is a big part of their team, and we must keep pressure on him at all times.

Have you heard any people predicting a Deutsche Bank Skyliners-Artland Dragons BEKO BBL Cup final? How realistic is this?

I haven't heard anyone saying it, but anything is possible.

Can Marquette upset UNC?

I think they can, but I have UNC winning this one.

Can Richmond pull the major upset against Kansas?

I have Kansas winning it all. So I have to say, no.

Florida State-VCU seems like a pretty even matchup. Who will win this and why?

I like FSU, because they are a very athletic team and play good team defense.

Thanks Bryan for the chat

Standings - 1. Bundesliga

1.Bundesliga Standings

1. Brose Baskets		27-2
2. Dt.Bank SKY		22-7
3. Art.Dragons		20-9
4. ALBA		20-9
5. NY Phantoms		17-12
6. EWE Baskets		16-12
7. TBB Trier		15-13
8. EnBW L'burg		15-13
9. Bremerhaven		14-14
10. Telekom Baskets		13-14
11. Goettingen		13-14
12. Walter Tigers		13-17
13. ratiopharm		12-16
14. Phoenix Hagen		12-16
15. LTi 46ers		8-21
16. Bayreuth		7-21
17. MBC		7-22
18. Duesseldorf		4-23

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game

DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.Bank SKY
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 19.2

1. Wood, Dt.	19.2
2. Rice, Art.Dragons	16.8
3. Allen, ALBA	16.2
4. Bell, Phoenix Hagen	16.0
5. Benzing, ratio.	15.6
6. Martin, Bremerha.	15.4
7. Harris, EnBW L.	15.4
8. Callahan, Bremerha.	15.1
9. Ross, MBC	15.0
10. Dorris, Phoenix .	15.0

Rebounds Per Game

John BRYANT
  ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 11

1. Bryant, ratiopharm	11.0
2. Ensminger, Teleko.	8.4
3. Reiner, Bayreuth	7.9
4. Watts, Walter T.	7.8
5. Martin, Bremerha.	7.1
6. Ovcina, LTi 46ers	6.9
7. Stevic, EWE B.	6.8
8. Burtschi, Phoenix .	6.7
9. Pleiss, Brose B.	6.6
10. Fenn, Art.Dragons	6.5

Assists Per Game

Branislav RATKOVICA
  Walter Tigers
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Ratkovica, Walter T.	7.3
2. Wood, Dt.	5.7
3. Joyce, TBB Trier	5.4
4. Rice, Art.Dragons	5.0
5. Neitzel, Bayreuth	4.4
6. Jordan, MBC	4.3
7. Green, EnBW L.	4.2
8. Gamqrelidze, LTi	4.1
9. Goldsberry, Brose B.	4.1
10. Hamilton, NY Phant.	4.1

Steals Per Game

Kevin HAMILTON
  NY Phantoms
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Hamilton, NY Phant.	2.1
2. Martin, Bremerha.	1.7
3. Burtschi, Phoenix .	1.6
4. Pryor, Phoenix .	1.5
5. Dorris, Phoenix .	1.5
6. Wise, Telekom .	1.4
7. Wood, Dt.	1.4
8. Goldsberry, Brose B.	1.4
9. Ross, MBC	1.3
10. Bernard, MBC	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Ekene IBEKWE
  Bayreuth
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.	2.4
2. Pleiss, Brose B.	1.9
3. Bryant, ratiopharm	1.7
4. Seward, Phoenix .	1.3
5. Brempong, Duesseld.	1.2
6. Goree, NY Phantoms	1.2
7. Hines, Brose B.	1.1
8. Scott, Goettingen	1.0
9. Trice, ratiopharm	0.9
10. Stevic, EWE B.	0.9

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

GREECE

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Steven SMITH
  Panellinios
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 17.2

1. Smith, Panellinios	17.2
2. Marshall, PAOK	17.1
3. Palacio, Kavala	16.7
4. Baxter, Ilysiakos	16.3
5. Kalathis, VAP K.	15.0
6. Grundy, AEK	14.5
7. Thompson, Ikaros	14.4
8. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos	14.4
9. Harris, Ikaros	13.8
10. Jorovic, Kavala	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.2

1. Simmons, Kavala	10.2
2. Thompson, Ikaros	8.9
3. Kalathis, VAP K.	8.5
4. Smith, Panellinios	8.3
5. Bagaric, Marousi	8.2
6. Papadopoulos, PAOK	7.5
7. Tucker, Aris	7.4
8. Looby, Peristeri GS	7.3
9. Elonu, Panionios	6.6
10. Dawson, Ilysiakos	6.6

Assists Per Game

Jared JORDAN
  VAP Kolossos
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 6

1. Jordan, VAP K.	6.0
2. Spanoulis, Olympiakos	5.6
3. Thompson, Ilysi.	5.0
4. Teodosic, Olympiakos	4.7
5. Diamantidis, Panath.	4.6
6. Everett, Iraklis	4.4
7. Karydas, Ilysiakos	4.1
8. Xanthopoulos, Panell.	3.9
9. Palacio, Kavala	3.8
10. Papaloukas, Olymp.	3.7

Steals Per Game

Terrell EVERETT
  Bremerhaven
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Everett, Iraklis	2.4
2. Anderson, Panionios	2.0
3. Parker, Iraklis	2.0
4. Grundy, AEK	1.9
5. Baxter, Ilysiakos	1.9
6. Papaloukas, Olymp.	1.8
7. Marshall, PAOK	1.8
8. Xanthopoulos, Panell.	1.7
9. Karydas, Ilysiakos	1.7
10. Jamon Lukas, Olymp.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Dalibor BAGARIC
  Marousi
  (217-C-80)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Bagaric, Marousi	1.8
2. Simmons, Kavala	1.8
3. Elonu, Panionios	1.7
4. Thompson, Ikaros	1.4
5. Looby, Peristeri GS	1.0
6. Dunston, Aris	0.9
7. Nesterovic, Olymp.	0.8
8. Vougioukas, Panath.	0.7
9. Harissis, VAP K.	0.7
10. Bourousis, Olympiakos	0.6

Standings - A1

A1 Standings

1. Olympiakos		21-0
2. Panathinaikos		20-1
3. Marousi		12-9
4. PAOK		12-9
5. VAP Kolossos		11-11
6. Aris		11-11
7. Peristeri GS		10-11
8. Kavala		10-11
9. Panionios		10-11
10. Ikaros		8-14
11. Panellinios		7-14
12. AEK		6-15
13. Ilysiakos		6-15
14. Iraklis		5-17

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

IRELAND

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Clayton LONGMIRE
  Belfast Star
  (201-F-84)
  Avg: 27.8

1. Longmire, Belfast .	27.8
2. Bonaparte, Neptune	27.1
3. Foley, Ulster Elks	23.4
4. Turner, Killester	23.2
5. Mitchell, UL Ea.	23.2
6. Van, UCC Demons	22.7
7. De La Cruz, Ulster E.	21.4
8. Crowder, UCD M.	21.4
9. Ambler, Moycullen	21.1
10. Crean, DCU Saints	16.6

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus VAN
  UCC Demons
  (201-F/C-85)
  Avg: 14.2

1. Van, UCC Demons	14.2
2. Mitchell, UL Ea.	13.8
3. De La Cruz, Ulster E.	13.1
4. Ambler, Moycullen	12.9
5. Bonaparte, Neptune	11.3
6. Crean, DCU Saints	11.0
7. Provizors, DCU S.	10.8
8. Turner, Killester	10.5
9. Crowder, UCD M.	10.3
10. Longmire, Belfast .	9.4

Assists Per Game

Scott KINEVANE
  UL Eagles
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 8.3

1. Kinevane, UL Eagles	8.3
2. Donnelly, DCU S.	5.8
3. Meany, UCD Marian	4.9
4. Drumm, Ulster Elks	4.5
5. Noonan, Neptune	4.0
6. Westbrooks, Killester	3.7
7. Crowder, UCD M.	3.5
8. McVeigh, Belfast .	3.1
9. Turner, Killester	3.1
10. Kelly, Killester	3.0

Steals Per Game

Patrick CREAN
  DCU Saints
  (193-F-)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Crean, DCU Saints	3.5
2. McGinn, Neptune	3.4
3. Drumm, Ulster Elks	2.4
4. Noonan, Neptune	2.4
5. Turner, Killester	2.3
6. Kelly, Killester	2.2
7. Donnelly, DCU S.	2.2
8. Crowder, UCD M.	2.2
9. Nihill, Moycullen	2.1
10. Dowd, Moycullen	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Neil BAYNES
  UCD Marian
  (198-F-87)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Baynes, UCD Marian	2.3
2. Bonaparte, Neptune	2.2
3. Van, UCC Demons	2.2
4. Trimmer, DCU S.	2.0
5. Longmire, Belfast .	1.9
6. Turner, Killester	1.9
7. De La Cruz, Ulster E.	1.8
8. Crowder, UCD M.	1.0
9. Kamara, Neptune	1.0
10. Provizors, DCU S.	0.9

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

ITALY

Standings - Lega 2

Lega2 Standings

1. Fastweb CM		17-7
2. Umana Reyer		17-7
3. Snaidero UD		16-8
4. Barcellona		16-8
5. Immobiliare SR		15-9
6. Sunrise Scafati		15-9
7. Prima Veroli		13-11
8. Fileni BPA		13-12
9. Aget Imola		12-12
10. Tuscany PT		11-13
11. N.Ferrara		10-15
12. Assigeco		9-15
13. Tezenis Verona		9-15
14. Trenkwalder		8-16
15. Forli		6-18
16. San Severo		6-18

Cantu extends Vladimir Micov until 2013 - by Eurobasket News
Bennet Cantu announced signing of 2-year contract extension with Vladimir Micov (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket). The Serbian forward joined Cantu in December of 2009 from Caja Laboral. He appeared 22 times in SerieA this season averaging 11.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.2 assists. Cantu is currently No.2 in the league with 16-6 record. In EuroCup, Micov added 10.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 3 apg for 6 games.
Vladimir Micov had 11.8 ppg, 4 rpg and 2.6 apg for 24 league games last season with Cantu. As mentioned above, he joined them from Caja Laboral. With the Spanish giant he had 4.1 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 7 Euroleague games, plus 2.6 ppg and 1.3 rpg for 13 games in ACB.
From 2005 to 2009, Vladimir Micov was a member of Buducnost Podgorica. He also spent some times with Panionios during 2008/09 season. Micov signed a deal until 2013, with a buy-out clause in 2012.

Standings - SerieA

SerieA Standings

1. Montepaschi		20-2
2. Bennet Cantu		16-6
3. Armani MI		16-6
4. Air AV		12-10
5. CS Bologna		12-11
6. Benetton TV		11-12
7. Vanoli CR		10-12
8. Dinamo Sassari		10-12
9. Lottomatica		10-12
10. Pepsi Caserta		10-12
11. Scavolini PS		10-12
12. Cimberio VA		10-12
13. Fabi Shoes		9-13
14. Angelico BI		8-14
15. Enel Brindisi		7-15
16. Banca Tercas		6-16

Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game

James WHITE
  Dinamo Sassari
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 21

1. White, Dinamo Sassari	21.0
2. Thomas, Air AV	17.7
3. Ford, Fabi Shoes	16.7
4. Roberson, Enel B.	16.2
5. Zoroski, Banca T.	15.7
6. Dean, Air AV	15.7
7. Diawara, Enel B.	15.0
8. Kaukenas, Montepas.	14.9
9. Hunter, Dinamo S.	14.8
10. Milic, Vanoli CR	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.7

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	10.7
2. Davis, Banca Tercas	8.5
3. Jones, Pepsi C.	8.5
4. Homan, CS Bologna	8.4
5. Troutman, Air AV	8.3
6. Lang, Enel Brindisi	8.1
7. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes	8.0
8. Suton, Angelico BI	7.2
9. Hunter, Dinamo S.	7.2
10. Sekulic, Vanoli CR	6.9

Assists Per Game

Marques GREEN
  Air AV
  (170-G-82)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Green, Air AV	6.8
2. Diener, Dinamo S.	4.7
3. Sosa, Angelico BI	4.2
4. Rowland, Vanoli CR	4.1
5. Collins, Scavolin.	4.1
6. Goss, Cimberio VA	3.9
7. Zoroski, Banca T.	3.9
8. Green, Bennet Cantu	3.7
9. Markovic, Benetton.	3.3
10. Rannikko, Cimberio.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Earl ROWLAND
  Vanoli CR
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 3

1. Rowland, Vanoli CR	3.0
2. Thomas, Air AV	3.0
3. Green, Air AV	2.9
4. Troutman, Air AV	2.7
5. Stonerook, Montepas.	2.5
6. White, Dinamo Sassari	2.5
7. Hawkins, Armani MI	2.5
8. Dedovic, Lottomat.	2.5
9. McCalebb, Montepas.	2.5
10. Dasic, Lottomatica	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	2.3
2. Crosariol, Lottomat.	1.4
3. Hunter, Dinamo S.	1.3
4. Toure, Enel Brindisi	1.2
5. Lang, Enel Brindisi	1.1
6. Cusin, Scavolini PS	1.0
7. Homan, CS Bologna	0.9
8. Szewczyk, Air AV	0.9
9. Polonara, Banca T.	0.9
10. Drozdov, Vanoli CR	0.9

Stats Leaders - Lega2

Points Per Game

Trent WHITING
  Aget Imola
  (185-G-76)
  Avg: 23.5

1. Whiting, Aget Imola	23.5
2. Crispin, Barcellona	21.8
3. Robinson, Trenkwal.	21.0
4. Jackson, Prima Veroli	20.3
5. Gordon, Forli	19.5
6. Clark, Umana Reyer	19.4
7. Ebi, Aget Imola	19.2
8. Goldwire, Forli	18.8
9. Marigney, Assigeco	18.5
10. Forte, Tuscany PT	18.2

Rebounds Per Game

Demian FILLOY
  Immobiliare SR
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 9.3

1. Filloy, Immobili.	9.3
2. Ebi, Aget Imola	9.2
3. Varnado, Tuscany PT	8.8
4. Dickens, San Severo	8.6
5. Boykin, Assigeco	8.5
6. Lollis, Immobili.	8.1
7. Waleskowski, Tezeni.	8.0
8. Gordon, Forli	7.8
9. Dordei, Snaidero UD	7.8
10. Johnson, San Severo	7.8

Assists Per Game

Joseph CRISPIN
  Barcellona
  (186-G-79)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Crispin, Barcellona	5.1
2. Goldwire, Forli	4.9
3. Porta, Tezenis .	4.9
4. Clark, Umana Reyer	3.9
5. Mathis, Snaidero.	3.8
6. Whiting, Aget Imola	3.7
7. Hickman, Fastw.	3.7
8. Marigney, Assigeco	3.6
9. Levin, Sunrise .	3.5
10. Forte, Tuscany PT	3.4

Steals Per Game

Terrence RODERICK
  Immobiliare SR
  (195-G/F-88)
  Avg: 3

1. Roderick, Immobi.	3.0
2. Ebi, Aget Imola	2.9
3. Hunter, Sunrise .	2.6
4. Achara, Barcellona	2.5
5. Filloy, Immobili.	2.4
6. Williams, Snaidero.	2.4
7. Cerella, Assigeco	2.4
8. Davis, Sunrise .	2.4
9. Whiting, Aget Imola	2.4
10. Trepagnier, Tezeni.	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Jarvis VARNADO
  Tuscany PT
  (206-F-88)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Varnado, Tuscany PT	2.8
2. Ebi, Aget Imola	1.4
3. Achara, Barcellona	1.1
4. Maggioli, Fileni B.	1.1
5. Frosini, Trenkwalder	0.9
6. Boykin, Assigeco	0.8
7. Ezugwu, Assigeco	0.8
8. Cervi, Trenkwalder	0.7
9. Bryan, Umana Reyer	0.7
10. Cutolo, San Severo	0.7

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

LATVIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mareks JUREVICUS
  Tezenis Verona
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 22.1

1. Jurevicus, Liepaja	22.1
2. Willjam, Barons	16.8
3. Wilson, Zemgale	16.1
4. Peiners, LU	15.1
5. Bergmanis, Zemgale	15.1
6. Duselis, LU	14.6
7. Veselovs, Valmiera	14.3
8. Mednis, Turiba	14.0
9. Caldwell, Liepaja	13.6
10. Vaikulis, Liepaja	13.4

Rebounds Per Game

Roberts MEDNIS
  Turiba
  (204-C-89)
  Avg: 8.1

1. Mednis, Turiba	8.1
2. Rozitis, Zemgale	7.7
3. Berzins, VEF R.	7.5
4. Wilson, Zemgale	7.2
5. Aleksejevs, Liepaja	7.0
6. Selakovs, VEF R.	6.3
7. Strelnieks, Ventspils	5.9
8. Piternieks, LU	5.9
9. Veselovs, Valmiera	5.8
10. Cavars, Barons	5.8

Assists Per Game

Mareks JUREVICUS
  Tezenis Verona
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 4.9

1. Jurevicus, Liepaja	4.9
2. Willjam, Barons	4.7
3. Gabrans, Valmiera	4.7
4. Bertans, VEF R.	4.7
5. Mitchell, Liepaja	3.9
6. Strelnieks, Ventspils	3.8
7. Bergmanis, Zemgale	3.7
8. Gailitis, VEF R.	3.5
9. Piternieks, LU	3.2
10. Feldmanis, Barons	3.0

Steals Per Game

Mareks JUREVICUS
  Tezenis Verona
  (198-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Jurevicus, Liepaja	2.6
2. Jahovics, VEF R.	2.2
3. Gailitis, VEF R.	1.9
4. Strelnieks, Ventspils	1.8
5. Cavars, Barons	1.8
6. Mitchell, Liepaja	1.8
7. Gabrans, Valmiera	1.7
8. Motivans, Turiba	1.6
9. Slisans, LU	1.6
10. Bertans, VEF R.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Kaspars BERZINS
  VEF Riga
  (213-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Berzins, VEF R.	2.1
2. Rozitis, Zemgale	1.8
3. Skirmants, Barons	1.3
4. Beard, Liepaja	1.2
5. Mejeris, Liepaja	1.1
6. Pishchalniko., Barons	0.9
7. Aleksejevs, Liepaja	0.8
8. Piternieks, LU	0.8
9. Kuzminskas, Ventspils	0.8
10. Blaus, Ventspils	0.8

LBL Standing

LBL Standings

1. Ventspils		17-3
2. Liepaja		16-9
3. Barons		16-9
4. Valmiera		15-8
5. VEF Riga		13-9
6. Zemgale		8-14
7. Turiba		5-20
8. LU		4-22

LBL Round 22: Latvijas Universitate beats Turiba by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in LBL. The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with derby games and favorites losing the games.

The most exciting game of round 22 in the LBL took place in Turiba. This derby game ended with only two-point home defeat of 7th ranked Turiba (5-20) to eighth ranked Latvijas Universitate (4-22) 81-79 on Friday evening. Turiba was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 21-13 charge of Latvijas Universitate, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Zanis Peiners (203-G-90) who helped to win the game recording 24 points. Forward Arturs Duselis (200-89) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Forward Janis Dilevka (198-88) replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds for Turiba. Turiba's coach Peteris Visnevics rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate maintains eighth position with 4-22 record. Turiba lost fourth consecutive game. Turiba at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the seventh place with 20 games lost. Latvijas Universitate are looking forward to face higher ranked Valmiera (#4) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Turiba will have a break next round.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Riga: Barons (#3) and Latvijas Universitate (#8). Latvijas Universitate was defeated at home 84-94 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. Forward Agnis Cavars (198-86) had a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Ilmars Bergmanis chipped in 13 points and 5 assists during the contest. At the losing side forward Arturs Duselis (200-89) responded with 24 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion (16-9) moved-up to second place, which they share with Liepaja. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate stay dead last with 22 lost games. Barons will play against league's leader Ventspils on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Latvijas Universitate will play against Valmiera (#4) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Liepaja (16-9) against ninth ranked VEF Riga (13-9) on Wednesday night. Visiting Liepaja was crushed by VEF Riga in Riga 97-72. TreVon Hughes notched 21 points to lead the effort. Even 17 points by Mareks Mejeris did not help to save the game for Liepaja. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. VEF Riga moved-up to fifth place. Loser Liepaja keeps the second position with nine games lost. They share it with Barons. VEF Riga will meet league's leader Ventspils on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Liepaja will have a break next round.
An interesting game for Ventspils (17-3) which hosted in Ventspils their biggest opponent Liepaja (16-9). First ranked Ventspils managed to get a 7-point victory 69-62. Janis Strelnieks fired 12 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals for the winners. Ventspils' coach Algirdas Brazys allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Ventspils have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-3 record. Liepaja at the other side keeps the second place with nine games lost. Ventspils' next round opponent will be Barons (#3) in Riga, which may be the game of the day.
The game in Jelgava supposed to be also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Valmiera (15-8) played at the court of 6th ranked Zemgale (8-14). Valmiera smashed Zemgale 88-60 on Thursday. It was a very good performance for Pavels Veselovs who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 9 rebounds. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Valmiera have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 15-8 record. Loser Zemgale keeps the sixth place with 14 games lost. Valmiera will face bottom-ranked Latvijas Universitate (#8) in Riga in the next round.

In the last game of round 22 Zemgale beat Turiba on the road 73-67.
The most impressive performance of 22th round was 22 points by Matiss Rudmiezis of Turiba.

LU - Barons 84-94

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Riga: Barons (#3) and Latvijas Universitate (#8). Latvijas Universitate was defeated at home 84-94 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. The game was mostly controlled by Barons. Latvijas Universitate was better in fourth quarter 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Barons made 25-of-30 charity shots (83.3 percent) during the game. Barons outrebounded Latvijas Universitate 42-18 including a 27-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. Latvijas Universitate was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Agnis Cavars (198-86) had a double-double by scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international guard Ilmars Bergmanis (184-81) chipped in 13 points and 5 assists during the contest. Four Barons players scored in double figures. At the losing side forward Arturs Duselis (200-89) responded with 24 points and guard Rudolfs Rozitis (187-88) scored 16 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion (16-9) moved-up to second place, which they share with Liepaja. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate stay dead last with 22 lost games. Barons will play against league's leader Ventspils on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Latvijas Universitate will play against Valmiera (#4) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
LU: A.Duselis 24+3reb+3ast, R.Rozitis 16+2reb+1ast, Z.Peiners 13+1reb+2ast, D.Berzins 8+6reb+3ast, A.Malahovskis 6+3reb+1ast, H.Rubenis 5+1reb+1ast
Barons: I.Bergmanis 13+2reb+5ast, M.Skirmants 13+5reb+2ast, A.Vitols 12+4reb+2ast, A.Cavars 11+10reb+1ast, A.Butjankovs 11+5reb, I.Bankevics 9+1reb+1ast

VEF Riga - Liepaja 97-72

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Liepaja (16-9) against ninth ranked VEF Riga (13-9) on Wednesday night. Visiting Liepaja was crushed by VEF Riga in Riga 97-72. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 97-72. VEF Riga dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Liepaja's 30 and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Liepaja 38-23 including 27 on the defensive glass. American-Puerto Rican guard TreVon Hughes (183-87, college: Wisconsin, agency: Edge Sports) notched 21 points to lead the effort and American forward Tyler Cain (203-88, college: S.Dakota) supported him with 9 points and 10 rebounds. Four VEF Riga players scored in double figures. Even 17 points by forward Mareks Mejeris (199-91) did not help to save the game for Liepaja. Center Martins Meiers (203-91) added 11 points and 5 rebounds for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. VEF Riga moved-up to fifth place. Loser Liepaja keeps the second position with nine games lost. They share it with Barons. VEF Riga will meet league's leader Ventspils on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Liepaja will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Liepaja: M.Mejeris 17+3reb+2ast, P.Caldwell 14+2reb+1ast, M.Meiers 11+5reb+1ast, M.Kravcenko 8+1reb, J.Kosuskins 7+2reb+2ast, A.Ozols 5+1reb+1ast
VEF Riga: T.Hughes 21+2reb+3ast, D.Bertans 14+3reb+2ast, S.Valters 13+1reb+2ast, K.Janicenoks 13+2reb+4ast, I.Nelyubov 10+7reb, T.Cain 9+10reb+1ast

Zemgale - Valmiera 60-88

The game in Jelgava supposed to be also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Valmiera (15-8) played at the court of 6th ranked Zemgale (8-14). Valmiera smashed Zemgale 88-60 on Thursday. The game without a history. Valmiera led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Zemgale's 22. Valmiera had a 31-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a very good performance for the former international power forward Pavels Veselovs (207-83) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 9 rebounds. Swingman Janis Berzins (200-93) contributed with 18 points for the winners. Five Valmiera players scored in double figures. Power forward Jekabs Rozitis (206-86) replied with 16 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Salvis Metra (194-84) added 14 points in the effort for Zemgale. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Valmiera have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 15-8 record. Loser Zemgale keeps the sixth place with 14 games lost. Valmiera will face bottom-ranked Latvijas Universitate (#8) in Riga in the next round.
Top scorers:
Zemgale: J.Rozitis 16+8reb+1ast, S.Metra 14+3reb+1ast, R.Strupovics 10+4reb, E.Krumins 8+3reb, K.Krumins 4+1reb+5ast, A.Justovics 3+2reb
Valmiera: J.Berzins 18+2reb, P.Veselovs 17+9reb+1ast, M.Ziedins 14+4reb, R.Gabrans 11+2reb+5ast, O.Virsis 10+8reb+2ast, V.Veinbergs 6+1ast

Turiba - LU 79-81

The most exciting game of round 22 in the LBL took place in Turiba. This derby game ended with only two-point home defeat of 7th ranked Turiba (5-20) to eighth ranked Latvijas Universitate (4-22) 81-79 on Friday evening. Turiba was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 21-13 charge of Latvijas Universitate, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Zanis Peiners (203-90) who helped to win the game recording 24 points. Forward Arturs Duselis (200-89) contributed with 15 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Forward Janis Dilevka (198-88) replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds and forward Matiss Rudmiezis (193-91) added 22 points (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) in the effort for Turiba. Turiba's coach Peteris Visnevics rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Latvijas Universitate maintains eighth position with 4-22 record. Turiba lost fourth consecutive game. Turiba at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the seventh place with 20 games lost. Latvijas Universitate are looking forward to face higher ranked Valmiera (#4) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Turiba will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Turiba: M.Rudmiezis 22+3reb+1ast, L.Mizis 18+6reb+2ast, J.Dilevka 16+10reb+1ast, J.Antrops 9+4reb, A.Osins 6+1reb+1ast, J.Lasmanis 5+5reb+1ast
LU: Z.Peiners 24+3reb+2ast, R.Rozitis 20, A.Duselis 15+5reb+2ast, K.Brigmanis 6+1reb, A.Slisans 5+1reb, A.Malahovskis 4+6reb+1ast

Ventspils - Liepaja 69-62

An interesting game for Ventspils (17-3) which hosted in Ventspils their biggest opponent Liepaja (16-9). First ranked Ventspils managed to get a 7-point victory 69-62. Liepaja was ahead by 10 points at the halftime before a 40-23 second half run of Ventspils. They dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Liepaja's 30. Ventspils forced 19 Liepaja turnovers. International guard Janis Strelnieks (191-89) fired 12 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals for the winners. Lithuanian power forward Saulius Kuzminskas (210-82, college: California) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds. Four Ventspils players scored in double figures. Ventspils' coach Algirdas Brazys allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Pierce Caldwell (191-88, college: Incarnate World) produced 11 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and center Martins Meiers (203-91) added 14 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. Ventspils have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-3 record. Liepaja at the other side keeps the second place with nine games lost. Ventspils' next round opponent will be Barons (#3) in Riga, which may be the game of the day.
Top scorers:
Liepaja: S.Buskevics 16+2reb+3ast, M.Meiers 14+6reb+1ast, P.Caldwell 11+7reb+4ast, J.Kosuskins 9+2reb, J.Aleksejevs 4+10reb+2ast, A.Ozols 2+3reb
Ventspils: S.Kuzminskas 16+5reb+2ast, J.Strelnieks 12+7reb+5ast, A.Berzins 11+6reb+2ast, R.Anderson 10+5reb+1ast, A.Strelnieks 7+7reb, B.Hunter 6+4reb

Turiba - Zemgale 67-73

The game between closely ranked teams ended with sixth ranked Zemgale's (8-14) road victory over 7th ranked Turiba (5-20) 73-67 on Friday. Turiba was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Quite impressive performance for swingman Edgars Krumins (194-86) who helped to win the game recording 26 points and 7 rebounds. Power forward Jekabs Rozitis (206-86) contributed with 9 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Forward Janis Dilevka (198-88) replied with 10 points and 9 rebounds and forward Lauris Mizis (196-89) added 10 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Turiba. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Zemgale maintains sixth position with 8-14 record. Turiba lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the seventh place with 20 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Turiba: A.Osins 12+3reb, J.Dilevka 10+9reb+3ast, L.Mizis 10+5reb+1ast, A.Servuts 8, J.Lasmanis 8+4reb+2ast, M.Steinbergs 7+2reb+1ast
Zemgale: E.Krumins 26+7reb, K.Krumins 17+2ast, R.Strupovics 12+3reb+2ast, J.Rozitis 9+13reb+1ast, S.Metra 4+2reb+3ast, J.Bambis 3+1ast

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

LITHUANIA

Standings - LKL

LKL Standings

1. Zalgiris		20-0
2. Lietuvos Rytas		17-3
3. Rudupis		13-6
4. Siauliai		12-7
5. Juventus		12-9
6. Techasas		12-9
7. Perlas		9-12
8. Neptunas		8-11
9. Nevezis		7-12
10. Sakalai		6-14
11. Naglis-Adakris		6-14
12. Aiscai Kaunas		6-15
13. Alytus Alita		2-18

LKL Round 26: Zalgiris upset Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius in the game of the week - by Eurobasket News
The games are now more important than at the beginning of the Regular Season. We may still expect few shocking results in upcoming 4 rounds.

The game between Top Four teams took place in Vilnius. Second-ranked host Lietuvos Rytas (17-3) lost to top-ranked Zalgiris (20-0) 74-57. It ended at the same time the seven-game winning streak of Lietuvos Rytas. The best player for the winners was Marcus Brown who scored 14 points. Simas Jasaitis produced 12 points for the hosts. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Undefeated Zalgiris have an impressive 20-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 20-0 record. Defending champion Lietuvos Rytas keeps the second place with three games lost. Zalgiris will meet at home Nevezis (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Lietuvos Rytas will play against Rudupis (#3) in Prienai and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The most exciting game of round 26 in the LKL took place in Vilnius. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Juventus (12-9) to eighth ranked Perlas (9-12) 74-72 on Friday evening. Juventus was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Forward Vilmantas Dilys (208-87) scored 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Aidas Viskontas (185-86) chipped in 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. The former international forward Aurimas Kieza (202-82, college: Hofstra, agency: Players Group) responded with 11 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Perlas moved-up to seventh place. Juventus at the other side dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Techasas. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Rudupis (13-6) against fifth ranked Siauliai (12-7) on Friday night. Visiting Rudupis was defeated by Siauliai in Siauliai 89-75. The former international forward Mindaugas Zukauskas (201-75, agency: World Sport Agency) notched 17 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and Darius Gvezdauskas supported him with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Even 18 points by swingman Adas Juskevicius (194-89) did not help to save the game for Rudupis. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Siauliai have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. Rudupis at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Siauliai will play against Techasas (#6) in Panevezys in the next round. Rudupis will play at home against the league's second-placed Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 26: Techasas won against Naglis-Adakris on the opponent's court 75-64. Aiscai Kaunas unfortunately lost to Neptunas in a home game 69-85. Sakalai recorded a loss to Nevezis on the road 66-79.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 24 points and 12 rebounds by Egidijus Dimsa of Nevezis.

Naglis-Adakris - Techasas 64-75

Very expected game in Palanga where 10th ranked Naglis-Adakris (6-14) was defeated by sixth ranked Techasas (12-9) 75-64 on Friday. The game without a history. Techasas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. The best player for the winners was guard Tomas Cerneckis (191-88) who scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Tomas Rinkevicius (178-78) chipped in 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Techasas players scored in double figures. Swingman Raimundas Danys (198-85) produced 7 points and 11 rebounds and American forward Gerald Inman (206-87, college: Rutgers) added 9 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Techasas moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Juventus. Naglis-Adakris lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the tenth position with 14 games lost. They share it with Sakalai. Techasas will meet higher ranked Siauliai (#4) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Naglis-Adakris will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Techasas: T.Cerneckis 16+8reb, E.Ezerskis 13+2reb+1ast, T.Rinkevicius 12+6reb+4ast, A.Aleksandrovas 11+7reb, D.Silinskis 10+5reb, M.Valukonis 8+4reb
Naglis-Adakris: C.Lowe 12, G.Inman 9+6reb+1ast, R.Danys 7+11reb+2ast, D.Potter 6+3reb+1ast, V.Petkus 6+3reb, R.Varanauskas 5+3reb+1ast

Lietuvos Rytas - Zalgiris 57-74

The game between Top Four teams took place in Vilnius. Second-ranked host Lietuvos Rytas (17-3) lost to top-ranked Zalgiris (20-0) 74-57. It ended at the same time the seven-game winning streak of Lietuvos Rytas. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 74-57. Zalgiris dominated on the defensive end, holding Lietuvos Rytas to just 7 points in second quarter. They also forced 20 Lietuvos Rytas turnovers. The best player for the winners was American guard Marcus Brown (193-74, college: Murray St., agency: Higher Vision Sports) who scored 14 points. The former international guard Mantas Kalnietis (196-86, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. International swingman Simas Jasaitis (202-82) produced 12 points and international guard Martynas Gecevicius (193-88) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Zalgiris have an impressive 20-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 20-0 record. Defending champion Lietuvos Rytas keeps the second place with three games lost. Zalgiris will meet at home Nevezis (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Lietuvos Rytas will play against Rudupis (#3) in Prienai and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris: M.Brown 14+3reb+2ast, D.Collins 11+2reb+2ast, M.Kalnietis 11+5reb+2ast, T.Klimavicius 9+5reb+2ast, P.Jankunas 9+4reb, M.Pocius 8+3reb+1ast
Lietuvos Rytas: M.Gecevicius 13+1reb+2ast, S.Jasaitis 12+2reb+2ast, S.Babrauskas 7+1ast, M.Bjelica 6+6reb, A.Jomantas 5+3reb+1ast, J.Valanciunas 4+7reb

Aiscai Kaunas - Neptunas 69-85

Rather predictable result when eighth ranked Neptunas (8-11) defeated on the road 12th ranked Aiscai Kaunas (6-15) 85-69 on Thursday. The game without a history. Neptunas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a great shooting night for Neptunas especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 58.8 percentage. The best player for the winners was swingman Mantas Ruikis (198-85) who scored 19 points and 6 rebounds. American center Luke Bonner (213-85, college: Massachusetts) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds. The former international center Povilas Cukinas (210-83) produced 14 points and 6 rebounds and forward Rokas Uzas (202-88) added 15 points respectively for the hosts. Aiscai Kaunas' coach Mindaugas Lukosius rotated twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Neptunas maintains eighth position with 8-11 record. Aiscai Kaunas lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the twelfth place with 15 games lost. Neptunas will meet at home Sakalai (#10) in the next round. Aiscai Kaunas will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Neptunas: V.Vasylius 19+1reb+1ast, M.Ruikis 19+6reb+2ast, L.Bonner 14+7reb+1ast, A.Brunins 9+4reb+3ast, M.Stasys 7+4reb+6ast, S.Galdikas 6+3reb
Aiscai Kaunas: R.Uzas 15+1reb+1ast, P.Cukinas 14+6reb+1ast, S.Vasiliauskas 12+2ast, V.Jasikevicius 8+5reb+2ast, S.Kymantas 5, A.Drungilas 5+4reb+1ast

Nevezis - Sakalai 79-66

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 10th ranked Sakalai's (6-14) road loss to ninth ranked Nevezis (7-12) 66-79 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 40-26 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Nevezis dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Sakalai's 32. They outrebounded Sakalai 52-22 including a 18-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was center Egidijus Dimsa (205-85) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Forward Lukas Brazdauskis (203-88) chipped in a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. Swingman Virginijus Sirvydis (196-73) produced 22 points and 6 rebounds and center Edvinas Jezukevicius (207-90) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Sakalai's coach Rutenis Paulauskas rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Nevezis maintains ninth position with 7-12 record. Loser Sakalai keeps the tenth place with 14 games lost. They share the position with Naglis-Adakris. Nevezis will meet league's leader Zalgiris in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Sakalai will play against Neptunas (#8) in Klaipeda and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Nevezis: E.Dimsa 24+12reb, L.Brazdauskis 15+10reb+1ast, R.Alijevas 10+5reb+8ast, L.Mikalauskas 9+4reb+1ast, P.Belevicius 8+5reb+2ast, V.Cizauskas 8+6reb
Sakalai: V.Sirvydis 22+6reb+3ast, R.Matulis 12+3reb, E.Jezukevicius 11+5reb+1ast, E.Baniulis 7+1reb, A.Butkevicius 4+1reb, A.Kiausas 3+1reb+1ast

Siauliai - Rudupis 89-75

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Rudupis (13-6) against fifth ranked Siauliai (12-7) on Friday night. Visiting Rudupis was defeated by Siauliai in Siauliai 89-75. The game was mostly controlled by Siauliai. Rudupis was better in second period 28-26. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Siauliai had a 32-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Siauliai especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.6 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. The former international forward Mindaugas Zukauskas (201-75, agency: World Sport Agency) notched 17 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and guard Darius Gvezdauskas (192-88) supported him with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Five Siauliai players scored in double figures. Even 18 points by swingman Adas Juskevicius (194-89) did not help to save the game for Rudupis. Forward Justinas Sinica (203-85) added 16 points for the guests. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Siauliai have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fourth place. Rudupis at the other side keeps the third position with six games lost. Siauliai will play against Techasas (#6) in Panevezys in the next round. Rudupis will play at home against the league's second-placed Lietuvos Rytas in Vilnius and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Siauliai: M.Zukauskas 17+9reb+4ast, D.Gvezdauskas 16+5reb+5ast, R.Broadus 13+4reb+7ast, V.Sarakauskas 12+10reb, R.Edvinas 11+3reb, D.Weaver 11+6reb
Rudupis: A.Juskevicius 18+3reb+2ast, J.Sinica 16+4reb, G.Jankauskas 11+3reb+1ast, V.Lipkevicius 8+6reb+3ast, E.Dainys 8+3reb+3ast, P.Butkevicius 6+3reb

Perlas - Juventus 74-72

The most exciting game of round 26 in the LKL took place in Vilnius. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of higher ranked Juventus (12-9) to eighth ranked Perlas (9-12) 74-72 on Friday evening. Juventus was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Forward Vilmantas Dilys (208-87) scored 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Aidas Viskontas (185-86) chipped in 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. The former international forward Aurimas Kieza (202-82, college: Hofstra, agency: Players Group) responded with 11 points and 7 rebounds and the former international forward Marius Prekevicius (196-84, college: S.Florida, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Perlas moved-up to seventh place. Juventus at the other side dropped to the fifth position with nine games lost. They share it with Techasas. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Perlas: V.Dilys 21+8reb+2ast, A.Viskontas 16+5reb+5ast, E.Bendzius 9+4reb, L.Samenas 8+2reb+4ast, E.Kairys 7+2reb, T.Slezas 6+7reb+2ast
Juventus: M.Prekevicius 13+5reb+1ast, A.Kieza 11+7reb+3ast, J.Elvikis 10+1reb+1ast, G.Maceina 9+3reb+3ast, A.Adomaitis 8+7reb, V.Cepukaitis 6+6reb

NKL Round 3 of 1/8 Finals - by Eurobasket News
LKKA-Atletas - Erelita 77-71

LKKA-Atletas advanced into the quarterfinal stage of the tournament. They held off Erelita in decider. The hosts trailed by 12 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 6 points. The best player for the winners was guard Sarunas Vingelis (192-G-89) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) chipped in 24 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Karolis Pupinis (200-88) who recorded a double-double by scoring 23 points and 12 rebounds and guard Matas Sapiega (180-90) added 13 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists respectively. Four Erelita-KTU players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
LKKA-Atletas: V.Sragauskis 24+8reb+1ast, S.Vingelis 24+5reb+10ast, T.Urbonas 10+8reb+1ast, A.Sakalauskas 9+2reb+1ast, D.Gricius 6+2reb+3ast, P.Malasauskas 4+4reb
Erelita: K.Pupinis 23+12reb+1ast, M.Sapiega 13+8reb+6ast, R.Cepanonis 13+2reb, V.Metelica 12+8reb+4ast, A.Pelss 4+3reb+2ast, M.Pazera 3+1ast

Nafta Universitetas - Akademija 95-76

Nafta Universitetas coasted past Akademija in the decisive third game of the eighth-final series. The game was mostly controlled by Nafta Universitetas. Akademija was better in second period 21-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Nafta Universitetas made 26-of-34 charity shots (76.5 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Akademija turnovers and outrebounded them 40-19 including a 30-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Akademija was plagued by 32 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for forward Donatas Norkus (196-F-90) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard Mindaugas Girdziunas (188-89) contributed with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Five Nafta Universitetas players scored in double figures. Forward Tomas Lekunas (195-93) answered with 25 points and forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) added 15 points in the effort for Akademija. Akademija's coach rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Nafta Universitetas: J.Kazakauskas 20+7reb+1ast, M.Girdziunas 19+6reb+6ast, D.Norkus 15+13reb+4ast, T.Klimas 13+5reb+1ast, D.Anuzis 10+1reb+3ast, V.Chodosovskis 10+2reb
Akademija: T.Lekunas 25+4reb+3ast, J.Jurgo 15+4reb+2ast, O.Olisevicius 10+3reb, E.Mockevicius 9+6reb+3ast, K.Alekna 5, P.Lescinskas 5+1reb+2ast

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Egidijus DIMSA
  Nevezis
  (205-C-85)
  Avg: 16.7

1. Dimsa, Nevezis	16.7
2. Dilys, Naglis-Adakris	16.4
3. Kieza, Juventus	16.2
4. Dilys, Perlas	16.1
5. Alijevas, Nevezis	15.6
6. Vasylius, Neptunas	15.6
7. Mikalauskas, Naglis.	14.7
8. Ruikis, Neptunas	14.5
9. Juskevicius, Rudupis	14.5
10. Sirvydis, Sakalai	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 11

1. Kieza, Juventus	11.0
2. Janisius, Alytus A.	9.9
3. Sarakauskas, Siauliai	9.3
4. Valanciunas, Lietuv.	8.3
5. Dimsa, Nevezis	7.6
6. Matulis, Sakalai	6.8
7. Mikalauskas, Naglis.	6.7
8. Vasylius, Neptunas	6.6
9. Jankunas, Zalgiris	6.6
10. Klimavicius, Zalgiris	6.5

Assists Per Game

Rolandas ALIJEVAS
  Nevezis
  (192-G-85)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Alijevas, Nevezis	6.3
2. Rinkevicius, Techasas	5.5
3. Broadus, Siauliai	5.2
4. Juskevicius, Rudupis	5.2
5. El-Amin, Lietuvos.	4.4
6. Collins, Zalgiris	4.3
7. Janavicius, Siauliai	4.2
8. Viskontas, Perlas	4.1
9. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	3.9
10. Dainys, Rudupis	3.8

Steals Per Game

Valdas VASYLIUS
  Neptunas
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Vasylius, Neptunas	2.1
2. Rinkevicius, Techasas	2.1
3. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris	1.9
4. Juskevicius, Rudupis	1.9
5. Razutis, Naglis-A.	1.8
6. Jasikevicius, Aiscai K.	1.8
7. Alijevas, Nevezis	1.8
8. Ruikis, Neptunas	1.7
9. Valukonis, Techasas	1.7
10. Vene, Aiscai Kaunas	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Mirza BEGIC
  Real Madrid
  (216-C-85)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Begic, Zalgiris	2.4
2. Valanciunas, Lietuv.	2.0
3. Silinskis, Techasas	1.9
4. Cresnar, Nevezis	1.5
5. Volkus, Techasas	1.1
6. Klimavicius, Zalgiris	1.0
7. Cepukaitis, Juven.	1.0
8. Jankauskas, Rudupis	0.9
9. Zelionis, Rudupis	0.8
10. Petrukonis, Perlas	0.8

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-.	20.0
4. Tarvydas, Puntukas	18.3
5. Jurkus, Silute	17.9
6. Cizauskas, Zalgir.	16.4
7. Mineikis, Radviliskis	16.3
8. Jacevicius, Perla.	16.2
9. Girdziunas, Nafta U.	16.0
10. Girdziunas, Nafta U.	16.0

Rebounds Per Game

Egidijus MOCKEVICIUS
  Akademija
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Mockevicius, Akade.	10.4
2. Mockevicius, Akade.	10.4
3. Pikalavicius, Delika.	10.2
4. Oladimeji, Radvilis.	9.5
5. Warren, Mazeikiai	8.6
6. Nedzinskas, Silute	8.5
7. Brusokas, Perla.	8.5
8. Mineikis, Radviliskis	7.7
9. Kupsas, Zalgir.	7.5
10. Kaupaitis, Silute	7.4

Assists Per Game

Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 7.2

1. Harrison, Mazeikiai	7.2
2. Vingelis, LKKA-.	5.2
3. Sapiega, Erelita	5.0
4. Kuklierius, Radvilis.	4.9
5. Cizauskas, Zalgir.	4.6
6. Leonard, Pieno Z.	4.5
7. Kutra, Delikatesas	4.2
8. Virsilas, Silute	4.1
9. Zymantas, Nafta U.	4.0
10. Zymantas, Nafta U.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Harrison, Mazeikiai	2.7
2. Metelica, Erelita	2.6
3. Zymantas, Nafta U.	2.5
4. Zymantas, Nafta U.	2.5
5. Petraitis, Delikate.	2.5
6. Vileita, Pieno Z.	2.4
7. Vasiliauskas, Triobe.	2.3
8. Pauliukenas, Akade.	2.2
9. Kutra, Delikatesas	2.2
10. Pauliukenas, Akade.	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Egidijus MOCKEVICIUS
  Akademija
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Mockevicius, Akade.	2.5
2. Mockevicius, Akade.	2.5
3. Urbonas, LK.	2.3
4. Jucikas, Delikatesas	1.8
5. Kupsas, Zalgir.	1.8
6. Oladimeji, Radvilis.	1.5
7. Pupinis, Erelita	1.3
8. Ramanauskas, Sil.	1.1
9. Ramasauskas, ABRO-.	1.0
10. Warren, Mazeikiai	0.9

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

MEXICO

Standings - CIBACOPA

CIBACOPA Standings

1. Cananea		7-2
2. Hermosillo		7-2
3. Culiacan		6-3
4. Guasave		6-3
5. Nogales		5-4
6. Tijuana		5-4
7. Guaymas		4-5
8. Mexicali		4-5
9. Tepic		1-8
10. Los Mochis		0-9

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Michael GALE
  Mexicali
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 30.6

1. Gale, Mexicali	30.6
2. White, Cananea	28.1
3. Sowell, Culiacan	25.2
4. Thomas, Cananea	24.6
5. Moss, Nogales	23.7
6. Moore, Tijuana	23.5
7. Webb, Culiacan	23.3
8. Barrett, Guasave	22.8
9. Watson, Tijuana	22.6
10. Brown, Tepic	22.3

Rebounds Per Game

Ryan MOSS
  Nogales
  (200-F/C-74)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Moss, Nogales	10.4
2. Moore, Tijuana	10.0
3. Malloy, Los Mochis	9.3
4. Brown, Tepic	8.7
5. Shipley, Tijuana	8.6
6. Brown, Nogales	8.0
7. Lawal, Tepic	7.3
8. Strobbe, Guasave	7.2
9. Avila, Culiacan	7.2
10. Gabbidon, Tijuana	7.0

Assists Per Game

Jermaine WATSON
  Tijuana
  (193-G-81)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Watson, Tijuana	5.1
2. Funn, Guasave	5.1
3. Ford, Tepic	5.0
4. White, Los Mochis	4.9
5. Monreal, Hermosillo	4.8
6. White, Cananea	4.3
7. Meza, Culiacan	4.2
8. Brown, Nogales	3.8
9. Gabbidon, Tijuana	3.3
10. Ibanez, Tepic	3.2

Steals Per Game

Derek THOMAS
  Cananea
  (193-F-84)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Thomas, Cananea	2.3
2. Brown, Tepic	2.0
3. Monreal, Hermosillo	1.8
4. Gale, Mexicali	1.7
5. Matthews, Nogales	1.6
6. Webb, Culiacan	1.4
7. Brown, Nogales	1.4
8. Funn, Guasave	1.3
9. Holmes, Hermosillo	1.3
10. White, Cananea	1.3

Blocks Per Game

LaShawn MALLOY
  Los Mochis
  (209-C/F-84)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Malloy, Los Mochis	3.5
2. Webb, Culiacan	2.9
3. Shipley, Tijuana	2.9
4. Jones, Tepic	2.4
5. Funn, Guasave	2.3
6. Watson, Tijuana	2.2
7. Nungaray, Guaymas	2.1
8. Sowell, Culiacan	2.1
9. Brown, Tepic	2.0
10. Gabbidon, Tijuana	2.0

CIBACOPA Round 9: Leader Caballeros de Culiacan loses to Mineros de Cananea - by Eurobasket News
The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Caballeros de Culiacan (6-3) at the home court on Friday night. Hosts were defeated by Mineros de Cananea (7-2) 94-80. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 6-2 record before this meeting. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 14-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 94-80. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Mineros de Cananea made 10 blocks. The best player for the winners was American forward Derek Thomas 193-84, college: Appalachian St.) who had a double-double by scoring 32 points and 12 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). His fellow American import guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) chipped in 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Kevin Sowell (190-81) who recorded 25 points and 5 blocks. Caballeros de Culiacan's coach rotated eleven players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Mineros de Cananea have a solid series of four victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Hermosillo. Caballeros de Culiacan lost third consecutive game. Defending champion dropped to the third place with three games lost. They share the position with Guasave. Mineros de Cananea will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Caballeros de Culiacan will play again at home against the league's leader Mineros de Cananea and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Important game to mention about took place in Guasave. Fourth ranked Frayles de Guasave (6-3) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 8th ranked Bomberos de Mexicali (4-5) 88-86 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Bomberos de Mexicali. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for guard William Funn (188-82, college: Portland St.) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 8 assists. Rasheem Barrett contributed with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) answered with 39 points (!!!) for Bomberos de Mexicali. Frayles de Guasave moved-up to third place, which they share with Culiacan. Bomberos de Mexicali at the other side dropped to the seventh position with five games lost. They share it with Guaymas. Frayles de Guasave will again play against Bomberos de Mexicali (#8) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Bomberos de Mexicali will have a break next round.
Bottom-ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 121-95 loss to seventh ranked Fuerza Guinda Nogales (5-4) in Los Mochis on Friday evening. The game was also dominated by American players. Robert Hornsby stepped up and scored 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners. The best for the losing side was Detrick White with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Pioneros Los Mochis' coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Fuerza Guinda Nogales moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Tijuana. Loser Pioneros Los Mochis still closes the standings with nine games lost. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Pioneros Los Mochis will play again against Fuerza Guinda Nogales (#5) and hope to get finally their first victory.
The game in Guaymas was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Rayos de Hermosillo (7-2) played at the court of 6th ranked Ostioneros de Guaymas (4-5). Rayos de Hermosillo managed to secure a 5-point victory 83-78. Marquise Gray nailed a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Rayos de Hermosillo have a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Cananea. Ostioneros de Guaymas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh place with five games lost. Rayos de Hermosillo will have a break next round. Ostioneros de Guaymas will play again at home against the league's second-placed Rayos de Hermosillo (#2).

In the last game of round 9 Tijuana defeated Tepic in a road game 91-78.
The best stats of 9th round was 34 points (!!!) and 16 rebounds by Ira Brown of Tepic.

Los Mochis - Nogales 95-121

Bottom-ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (0-9) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 121-95 loss to seventh ranked Fuerza Guinda Nogales (5-4) in Los Mochis on Friday evening. The game without a history. Fuerza Guinda Nogales led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 66.7 percent from the field. It was a great shooting night for Fuerza Guinda Nogales especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 66.7 percentage. The game was also dominated by American players. Power forward Robert Hornsby (196-82, college: Troy) stepped up and scored 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners and swingman Bryant Matthews (201-82, college: Virginia Tech) chipped in 24 points. The best for the losing side was guard Detrick White (184-76, college: Mississippi St.) with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists and power forward LaShawn Malloy (209-84, college: New Orleans, agency: Pro Management Agency) scored 17 points and 8 rebounds. Five Fuerza Guinda Nogales and four Pioneros Los Mochis players scored in double figures. Pioneros Los Mochis' coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Fuerza Guinda Nogales moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Tijuana. Loser Pioneros Los Mochis still closes the standings with nine games lost. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Pioneros Los Mochis will play again against Fuerza Guinda Nogales (#5) and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Los Mochis: D.White 20+5reb+8ast, N.Sims 20+6reb+1ast, L.Malloy 17+8reb+3ast, C.M. Toussaint 10, J.Estrada 8+2reb, A.Verdugo 8+2reb+1ast
Nogales: B.Matthews 24+2reb+3ast, N.Brown 23+2ast, R.Hornsby 21+5reb+4ast, R.Moss 14+9reb, B.Heredia 13+1reb+2ast, H.Rivera 11+2reb

Guaymas - Hermosillo 78-83

The game in Guaymas was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Rayos de Hermosillo (7-2) played at the court of 6th ranked Ostioneros de Guaymas (4-5). Rayos de Hermosillo managed to secure a 5-point victory 83-78. It looked good early as Ostioneros de Guaymas took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Rayos de Hermosillo had a 24-18 second period charge getting the lead and Ostioneros de Guaymas were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 78-83. They outrebounded Ostioneros de Guaymas 41-24 including 29 on the defensive glass. Rayos de Hermosillo brought some defensive toughness making 14 blocks. American center Marquise Gray (206-86, college: Michigan St., agency: ZAG Advocates) nailed a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Steve Monreal (180, college: Cal.St.-Monterey) accounted for 18 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 blocks. American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) came up with 16 points and 5 rebounds and guard Raul Navarro (192-84) added 10 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for Ostioneros de Guaymas in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Rayos de Hermosillo have a solid series of three victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Cananea. Ostioneros de Guaymas lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the seventh place with five games lost. Rayos de Hermosillo will have a break next round. Ostioneros de Guaymas will play again at home against the league's second-placed Rayos de Hermosillo (#2).
Top scorers:
Guaymas: J.Habel 16+5reb+1ast, O.Lopez 12+2reb+1ast, F.Benitez 10+2reb+1ast, R.Navarro 10+7reb+4ast, R.Marentes 9+4reb+4ast, J.Sanchez 7+2reb+2ast
Hermosillo: M.Gray 18+12reb+3ast, S.Monreal 18+5reb+5ast, J.Abu-Shamala 12+4reb+1ast, C.Holmes 10+3reb, J.Camacho 8+5reb, J.Manuel Esteva 8+4reb+1ast

Tepic - Tijuana 78-91

There was no surprise when 9th ranked Coras de Tepic (1-8) was defeated at home by fifth ranked Tijuana Zonkeys (5-4) 91-78. The game was mostly controlled by Tijuana Zonkeys. Coras de Tepic was better in fourth quarter 31-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American players dominated the game. Forward Travis Gabbidon (201, college: UTSA) nailed 21 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side and center Gene Shipley (206-79, college: Brandon, agency: Elleby Sports) accounted for 14 points and 7 rebounds. Five Tijuana Zonkeys players scored in double figures. Forward Ira Brown (193-82, college: Gonzaga, agency: Dream Team Management) came up with a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 16 rebounds and guard Devon Ford (193-77, college: Idaho) added 22 points and 4 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!) respectively for Coras de Tepic in the defeat. Tijuana Zonkeys have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 5-4 record, which they share with Nogales. Coras de Tepic at the other side keeps the ninth position with eight games lost. Tijuana Zonkeys will have a break next round. Coras de Tepic will play again at home against Tijuana Zonkeys (#6).
Top scorers:
Tepic: I.Brown 34+16reb, D.Ford 22+2reb+4ast, J.Pablo Bravo 17+3reb, P.Lawal 3+3reb, H.Ibanez 2+3reb+1ast, E.Gomez 0+1reb
Tijuana: T.Gabbidon 21+8reb+3ast, J.Watson 16+4reb+4ast, K.Rodriguez 14+3reb+2ast, G.Shipley 14+7reb+3ast, L.Ramirez 13+1reb+1ast, C.Silva 4

Culiacan - Cananea 80-94

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Caballeros de Culiacan (6-3) at the home court on Friday night. Hosts were defeated by Mineros de Cananea (7-2) 94-80. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 6-2 record before this meeting. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 14-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 94-80. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Mineros de Cananea made 10 blocks. The best player for the winners was American forward Derek Thomas (193-84, college: Appalachian St.) who had a double-double by scoring 32 points and 12 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). His fellow American import guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) chipped in 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Kevin Sowell (190-81) who recorded 25 points and 5 blocks and the former international center Victor Avila (210-77, college: Oklahoma) added 18 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Caballeros de Culiacan's coach rotated eleven players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Mineros de Cananea have a solid series of four victories in a row. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Hermosillo. Caballeros de Culiacan lost third consecutive game. Defending champion dropped to the third place with three games lost. They share the position with Guasave. Mineros de Cananea will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Caballeros de Culiacan will play again at home against the league's leader Mineros de Cananea and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Culiacan: K.Sowell 25+4reb+1ast, V.Avila 18+7reb+2ast, J.Leroy Webb 15+9reb+3ast, J.Gonzalez 10+4reb+2ast, S.Morgan 7+5reb+2ast, R.Soto Ramirez 2
Cananea: D.Thomas 32+12reb+1ast, D.White 23+5reb+5ast, A.Aguirre 13+8reb+1ast, P.Darden 12+5reb+1ast, O.Zuniga 7+6reb+1ast, J.Alfredo Casillas 5

Guasave - Mexicali 88-86

Important game to mention about took place in Guasave. Fourth ranked Frayles de Guasave (6-3) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 8th ranked Bomberos de Mexicali (4-5) 88-86 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Bomberos de Mexicali. The hosts were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. The game was dominated by American players. It was a good game for guard William Funn (188-82, college: Portland St.) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 8 assists. Guard Rasheem Barrett (196-87, college: Auburn, agency: SportsList Inc.) contributed with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Funn is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Frayles de Guasave players scored in double figures. Guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) answered with 39 points (!!!) and forward James Penny (198-76, college: TCU) added 11 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Bomberos de Mexicali. Frayles de Guasave moved-up to third place, which they share with Culiacan. Bomberos de Mexicali at the other side dropped to the seventh position with five games lost. They share it with Guaymas. Frayles de Guasave will again play against Bomberos de Mexicali (#8) at home in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Bomberos de Mexicali will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Mexicali: M.Gale 39+4reb+2ast, J.Ruffus 12+4reb, J.Penny 11+5reb+2ast, R.Lopez 8+2reb+1ast, E.Medina 5, H.Carrillo 4+6reb+3ast
Guasave: R.Barrett 20+6reb+2ast, W.Funn 20+3reb+8ast, A.Izaguirre 17+6reb, S.Angounou 10+13reb+1ast, J.Acosta 9+2reb+2ast, M.Strobbe 7+1reb

Best players of Mexican CIBACOPA round 9 - by Eurobasket News
American Derek Thomas (193-F-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Cananea and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
The 26-year old forward had a double-double of 32 points and twelve rebounds, while his team beat Culiacan (#3, 6-3) 94-80. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Cananea to jump to the first place in the Mexican CIBACOPA. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Cananea has a very solid 7-2 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Thomas had a remarkable 60.0% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Cananea, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Appalachian State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Thomas is in league's top in points (4th best: 24.6ppg) and averages solid 1.6bpg,2.3spg and 62.6% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 28-year old American forward Ira Brown (193-F-82, agency: Dream Team Management) of Tepic. Brown impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 34 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Tepic lost that game 78-91 to the higher-ranked Tijuana (#6, 5-4). Tepic managed to keep the same 9th spot in the standings. 8 lost games are too many comparing to just one victory Tepic managed to get this year. Brown is one of the most experienced players at Tepic and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Robert Hornsby (196-F/C-82) of Nogales (#5). Hornsby showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, five rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of Nogales, leading his team to a 121-95 easy win against Los Mochis (#10, 0-9). Nogales needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 5 victories and 4 lost games. Hornsby has a very solid season. In 4 games in Mexico he scored 16.5ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marquise Gray (206-C-86) of Hermosillo - 18 points, 12 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Noah Brown (186-G-81) of Nogales - 23 points and 2 assists
6. Detrick White (184-G-76) of Los Mochis - 20 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists
7. William Funn (188-G-82) of Guasave - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 8 assists
8. Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) of Culiacan - 25 points and 4 rebounds
9. Joel Leroy Webb (201-G/F-82) of Culiacan - 15 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Davin White (186-G-81) of Cananea - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists

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

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MOLDOVA

Standings

D1 Standings

1. UASM		14-1
2. ASEM		13-2
3. Fire Ball		12-3
4. Gamma		9-6
5. Donduseni		6-10
6. Ribnita		6-10
7. UTM		4-12
8. Patriot		3-12
9. Soroca		2-12

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NBA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 27.8

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.8
2. James, Miami Heat	26.4
3. Stoudemire, New Y.	25.8
4. Wade, Miami Heat	25.6
5. Anthony, Denver N.	25.2
6. Bryant, LA Lakers	25.1
7. Rose, Chicago B.	24.8
8. Ellis, Golde S.	24.1
9. Nowitzki, Dallas M.	23.4
10. Gordon, LA Clippers	23.3

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.4

1. Love, Minnesota T.	15.4
2. Howard, Orlando M.	14.2
3. Randolph, Memph.	12.4
4. Griffin, LA Clipp.	12.0
5. Bogut, Milwauke.	11.4
6. Noah, Chicago B.	11.0
7. Camby, Portland TB	10.5
8. Humphries, New J.	10.4
9. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.2
10. Okafor, N.Orlean.	9.7

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Rondo, Boston C.	11.4
2. Nash, Phoenix Suns	11.4
3. Paul, N.Orleans H.	9.8
4. Williams, Utah Jazz	9.7
5. Calderon, Toron.	9.0
6. Felton, New Y.	9.0
7. Wall, Washington W.	8.6
8. Kidd, Dallas M.	8.5
9. Westbrook, Oklah..	8.3
10. Rose, Chicago B.	7.8

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Paul, N.Orleans H.	2.4
2. Rondo, Boston C.	2.3
3. Ellis, Golde S.	2.2
4. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
5. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.8
6. Conley, Memphis G.	1.8
7. Felton, New Y.	1.8
8. Gay, Memphis G.	1.7
9. Delfino, Milwaukee B.	1.7
10. Evans, Sacramen.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.7
2. Howard, Orlando M.	2.4
3. McGee, Washingt.	2.4
4. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.3
5. Milicic, Minnesota T.	2.1
6. Bynum, LA Lakers	2.0
7. Okafor, N.Orlean.	1.9
8. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
9. Stoudemire, New Y.	1.9
10. Duncan, San A.	1.9

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Boston C.		50-21
2. Philadelph.76		37-35
3. New York K.		35-37
4. New Jersey N.		23-48
5. Toronto R.		20-52
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		52-19
2. Indiana P.		32-41
3. Milwaukee B.		29-42
4. Detroit P.		25-47
5. Cleveland C.		14-57
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		50-22
2. Orlando M.		47-26
3. Atlanta H.		40-32
4. Charlotte B.		29-42
5. Washington W.		17-54
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		47-24
2. Denver N.		44-29
3. Portland TB		42-30
4. Utah Jazz		36-37
5. Minnesota T.		17-56
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		52-20
2. Phoenix Suns		36-35
3. Golde State W.		31-42
4. LA Clippers		28-45
5. Sacramento K.		19-52
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		57-15
2. Dallas M.		50-21
3. N.Orleans H.		42-31
4. Memphis G.		40-33
5. Houston R.		38-34

Memphis Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay has successful shoulder surgery - by Eurobasket News
Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) underwent successful surgery to repair his partially dislocated left shoulder in Pensacola, Fla.

Renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews of Birmingham, Ala., performed the procedure. Gay will likely be sidelined 4-6 months but he is expected to participate in the Grizzlies training camp in the fall.

Gay, who was ruled out for the rest of this season earlier this week, was hurt Feb. 15 in a game against Philadelphia. Hes been out the past five weeks, and the healing process hadnt progressed enough to allow Gay full range of motion in the shoulder.

Gay, 24, signed a five-year, $84 million contract before the start of this season. For his part, Gay responded by producing a career year in several statistical categories this season.

The 6-8 forward still ranks second on the team in scoring (19.8 points) and is posting career bests in assists (2.8), steals (1.69), blocks (1.1), field goal percentage (.471), three-point field goal percentage (.396), free throw percentage (.805) and minutes (39.9).

Memphis is 9-6 since Gay suffered the injury.

Courtesy of www.commercialappeal.com

Friday's games (12) review - by Eurobasket News
LA Lakers - LA Clippers 112-104
A 37-point performance by Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) Friday lifted the Los Angeles Lakers to a 112-104 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The Lakers led by just one point with 8 minutes to play but they pulled away down the stretch to win their sixth in a row. They are five games behind San Antonio for the best record in the Western Conference. Bryant made 11-of-21 from the field and 14-of-17 from the line. Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) added 26 points for the Lakers, Ron Artest had 15 and Andrew Bynum, who returned from a two-game suspension, delivered 11 points and 12 rebounds. Both sides shot 50 percent from the field but the Lakers made 28 free throws to 15 for the Clippers. Mo Williams led the Clippers with a season-best 30 points. When playing as the visiting team in this series, the Clippers have lost eight in a row. *Courtesy of www.upi.com

Chicago B. - Memphis G. 99-96
Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) scored Chicago's last six points, including an acrobatic layup that led to a crucial three-point play, and the Bulls beat the rugged Memphis Grizzles 99-96 on Friday night. Rose made two free throws with 2 1/2 minutes left to give Chicago the lead, then drove past Tony Allen (6'4''-G-82, college: Oklahoma St.) and converted over Marc Gasol with 10 seconds remaining to increase Chicago's lead to 97-93. Once again hearing those 'MVP!' chants, Rose made the resulting free throw. Memphis had one last chance after O.J. Mayo connected from long range and Rose had a 1-for-2 trip at the line, but Mike Conley missed a 3-pointer over Joakim Noah as time expired. Rose finished with 24 points, seven rebounds and seven assists for Chicago, which has won 11 of 12 and 18 of 21. Luol Deng scored 23 and Carlos Boozer added 12 points and nine boards. The Bulls extended their home winning streak to 14 games and increased their lead in the Eastern Conference to two over Boston, which lost 83-81 to Charlotte. Zach Randolph had 16 points and Marc Gasol added 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Grizzlies, who were coming off a 90-87 win at the Celtics on Wednesday. Allen scored 13 - all in the first half - and Conley finished with 11. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Oklah.City T. - Minnesota T. 111-103
Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 23 points, Russell Westbrook (6'3''-G-88, college: UCLA) added 19 points while matching a season-high with five steals and the Oklahoma City Thunder used a balanced attack to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 111-103 on Friday night. Serge Ibaka had 12 points and 10 rebounds for his third double-double in the past four games, and the Thunder had seven players score in double figures. Oklahoma City's 16-point lead got cut to two late in the third quarter, but the Thunder pulled back away against the NBA's worst defense. Anthony Randolph started in place of Kevin Love for the second straight game and replaced the All-Star's nightly double-double with 24 points and 15 rebounds for Minnesota. Love was not with the team because of a groin injury. Michael Beasley scored 20 points and Darko Milicic had 16 points as all five Minnesota starters reached double figures. *Courtesy of www.sctimes.com

Denver N. - Washington W. 114-94
Chris Andersen (6'11''-C-78, college: Blinn JC) grabbed 11 rebounds and was one of four Denver players to score 17 points as the Nuggets beat the Washington Wizards 114-94 on Friday night. Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88, agency: Players Group), Ty Lawson and Al Harrington also had 17, while J.R. Smith added 14 to lead six Nuggets players in double figures. Jordan Crawford had 19 points, JaVale McGee had 13 points and 13 rebounds and John Wall had 13 rebounds and six assists for the Wizards. Denver has won seven of its last nine and is 12-4 since trading Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups to the Knicks, including 8-0 at home. Washington fell to 1-34 on the road and has two games left on its five-game Western Conference road trip. *Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Phoenix Suns - N.Orleans H. 100-106
Carl Landry (6'7''-F-83, college: Purdue), starting in place of injured David West, scored 19 points and the New Orleans Hornets pulled away late for a 106-100 victory over Phoenix on Friday night, sinking the Suns further out of the Western Conference playoff race. The Hornets, who lost leading scorer West for the season with a knee injury in a victory at Utah on Thursday night, won for the fifth time in six games to stay in a virtual tie with Portland for the No. 6 spot in the West. Chris Paul (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) led five Hornets in double figures with 22 points. Jarrett Jack added 17, Trevor Ariza 16 and Willie Green 15. Marcin Gortat had 18 points and 10 rebounds in 28 minutes before leaving the game with a broken nose with 4 minutes left in the third quarter. Grant Hill also scored 18, while Jared Dudley and Aaron Brooks added 17 apiece. With the loss, Phoenix stayed three games behind Memphis with 11 games to play for the final playoff spot in the West. *Courtesy of www.wdsu.com

Cleveland C. - Detroit P. 97-91
J.J. Hickson (6'9''-F/C-88, college: N.Carolina St.) scored 24 points and Baron Davis hit a critical 3-pointer with 9.9 seconds remaining, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 97-91 win over the Detroit Pistons on Friday night. The win was only the second in the last 10 games for Cleveland, while Detroit has lost three straight and six of eight. The Cavaliers also broke a seven-game home losing streak. Davis returned for Cleveland after missing three games because of back spasms. He scored 16 points and had five assists in 24 minutes. Hickson, who also had 15 rebounds, was 9 of 13 from the field and made all six of his free throws. Ryan Hollins (6'11''-C-84, college: UCLA) and Luke Harangody scored 10 points apiece for the Cavaliers, who beat the Pistons for the first time in three games this season. Tayshuan Prince and Richard Hamilton scored 15 points apiece for Detroit. *Courtesy of www.clickondetroit.com

Miami Heat - Philadelph.76 111-99
One huge run got the Miami Heat back into the game. A second one put it away. And a historic statline from Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) certainly didn't hurt the cause, either. Wade finished with 39 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and five blocks - an effort matched only by Shaquille O'Neal in the last 25 seasons, according to STATS LLC - and the Heat pulled away down the stretch to beat the Philadelphia 76ers 111-99 on Friday night. LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) finished with 32 points and 10 rebounds and Chris Bosh had 20 points and 10 rebounds for the Heat, who used a 23-2 run in the second quarter to erase what was a 16-point deficit, then sealed it with a 24-5 burst that wiped away an eight-point Philadelphia lead in the fourth. 'Dwyane was simply sensational,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

New York K. - Milwaukee B. 96-102
Brandon Jennings (6'0''-G-89) scored a season-high 37 points, 16 during Milwaukee's second straight dominant start against New York, and the Bucks sent the Knicks to their fifth consecutive loss with a 102-96 victory Friday night. Andrew Bogut (7'0''-F/C-84, college: Utah) added 21 points and 17 rebounds for the Bucks, who won for the third time in four games and pulled within two games of Indiana for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Less than a week after building a 32-9 lead over New York after one, Milwaukee led by as much as 16 in the first period of this one, beating the Knicks for the ninth time in the last 11 meetings. Amare Stoudemire scored 28 for the Knicks, losers of eight of nine and 7-11 since acquiring Carmelo Anthony, who finished with 25. *Courtesy of www.forbes.com

Indiana P. - Sacramento K. 93-110
The Indiana Pacers are young and talented. With a chance to strengthen their grip on the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, they showed they haven't risen to their full potential yet. DeMarcus Cousins (6'11''-F-90, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) had 18 points and 14 rebounds to help the Sacramento Kings beat the Pacers 110-93 on Friday night. Indiana entered the game with a three-game lead over Milwaukee and Charlotte for eighth place in the East, but they shot 35 percent from the field and made just 4 of 25 3-point attempts. The Bucks and Bobcats each won on Friday night to trim the gap to two games. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Orlando M. - New Jersey N. 95-85
Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85) had 21 points and 14 rebounds, and Hedo Turkoglu (6'9''-F-79) added 20 points and 13 assists to help the Orlando Magic hold off the New Jersey Nets in a 95-85 victory Friday night. The Magic led by 10 at the half before giving up the lead early in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter. They rallied and used a 13-0 run to put the game away. Orlando won its fifth straight game and completed a 4-0 season sweep of New Jersey. The Magic have also won 14 of their last 17 meetings overall against the Nets. Anthony Morrow had 19 points for the Nets, while Jordan Farmar added 15 points and 16 assists. New Jersey lost for the fifth time in six games.*Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Boston C. - Charlotte B. 81-83
Dante Cunningham (6'8''-F-87, college: Villanova) hit a go-ahead 15-foot jumper with 34 seconds left and the Charlotte Bobcats erased a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the struggling Boston Celtics 83-81 on Friday night. The Bobcats outscored the Celtics 30-15 in the final period. Boston's last hopes ended when Ray Allen missed a 3-point attempt and Kevin Garnett failed on a jumper in the final 5 seconds. Charlotte moved two games behind Indiana, which lost to Sacramento, for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Boston, which began the night a 1/2-game behind the Chicago Bulls for the best record in the East, lost for the sixth time in 10 games. DJ White led the Bobcats with a career-high 17 points and Gerald Henderson had 15. Boston was led by Paul Pierce with 18 and Allen with 14. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Portland TB - San Antonio S. 98-96
Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88) scored over Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) at the buzzer and the Portland Trail Blazers edged the San Antonio Spurs 98-96 on Friday night. Batum finished with 21 points for the Blazers, who won their sixth straight game at the Rose Garden, and their sixth in a row at home against the Spurs. San Antonio led by as many as 10 in the fourth quarter but Portland pulled within one at 91-90 after a pair of free throws from Batum. Parker answered with a layup and Manu Ginobili made a 3-pointer to put San Antonio in front 96-90 with 1:21 left. Andre Miller made two straight layups before Batum added another pair of free throws to tie it with 0.9 seconds left. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Golde State W. - Toronto R. 138-100
Golden State Warriors coach Keith Smart wanted to send a message. Even with his team all but assured of missing the playoffs and up by more than 40 points, he refused to take his starters out of the game. His players refused to relent, too. That was a bad combination for the Raptors. Monta Ellis (6'4''-G-85) had 27 points and 10 assists, Dorell Wright (6'8''-G/F-85) finished with 26 points and the Warriors scored an NBA season-high 84 points in the first half in a 138-100 rout of the Raptors on Friday night. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Spurs sign Da'Sean Butler - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs announced that they have signed forward Da'Sean Butler (6'7''-G/F-88, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: W.Virginia).. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Butler, a 6-7, 230-pound forward out of the University of West Virginia, will be placed on the inactive list while continuing to rehab from a torn left ACL which he suffered in the 2010 Final Four against Duke on April 3.

Butler was originally selected by the Miami Heat with the 42nd pick in the 2010 NBA Draft. He signed with the Heat on August 30, but was later waived on October 25.

Butler played four seasons with the Mountaineers finishing his career with 107 career wins, the most in school history. As a senior he was named First Team All-Big East, averaging a team-high 17.2 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 38 games.

As a junior Butler was named Second Team All-Big East, averaging a team-best 17.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.29 steals in 35 games. During his sophomore season, Butler started all 37 games, averaging 12.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists while shooting a career-best .495 (186-376) from the field. Butler was selected to the Big East All-Rookie Team as a freshman, averaging 10.1 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.28 steals in 36 games.

For his career Butler started in 110 of 146 games for the Mountaineers, averaging 14.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.06 steals while shooting .448 (741-1,654) from the field, .353 (205-581) from three-point range and .732 (408-557) from the foul line. He scored 2,095 points during his career, ranking third in school history behind Jerry West and Hot Rod Hundley. Butler also ranks among school leaders in career double-figure scoring games (1st, 108), field goals (3rd, 741), three-pointers (4th, 205), free throws (5th, 408), rebounds (11th, 800) and steals (12th, 154).

Butler will wear #1 for the Spurs.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Hornets' West has torn ACL, done for season - by Eurobasket News
New Orleans Hornets forward David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) has a torn left ACL and will miss the rest of the season.

West sustained the injury while coming down from a dunk in the final minute of the fourth quarter during Thursday's 121-117 overtime victory over Utah.

He came down hard on the game-tying dunk, buckling his left knee, and had to be carted off the court in a wheelchair. An MRI on Friday revealed the tear.

'Obviously we are very saddened by this news,' Hornets general manager Dell Demps said in a statement. 'David is the ultimate warrior and competitor, but an even better person and we know that he will bounce back in time.'

The eighth-year pro was averaging a team-high 18.9 points and 7.6 rebounds in 70 games for New Orleans.

West's injury came as a huge blow for the Hornets, who held the seventh seed in the Western Conference entering Friday's games. They were only one game ahead of No. 8 Memphis and three games ahead of the surging Houston Rockets with 10 games remaining.

Courtesy of www.foxsports.ca

Hornets sign Patrick Ewing Jr. - by Eurobasket News
A day after losing star forward David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) for the season to a knee injury, the Hornets announced the signing of Patrick Ewing (6'8''-F-84, college: Georgetown) Jr.

Ewing Jr., the son of Hall of Fame center Patrick Ewing, was signed to a 10-day contract, according to team officials, though terms were not disclosed.

Ewing Jr. played 49 games with the Reno Bighorns and Sioux Falls Skyforce of the NBA Development League, averaging 17.7 points, 9.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists.

Courtesy of www.wwltv.com

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NCAA1

Va Commonwealth keeps alive First 4 to Final 4 bid - by Eurobasket News
A few years ago, George Mason showed that a No. 11 seed from an unheralded conference can make it to the Final Four. Now league rival Virginia Commonwealth is on the verge of topping that - taking a No. 11 seed from the First Four to the Final Four.

The Rams had to win a play-in game just to secure their spot in the NCAA tournament, and have been unstoppable ever since. A series of blowouts against big-name programs from big-time conferences got them to the second weekend, and they showed Friday night that they can win the tight games, too.

Bradford Burgess (6'5''-G-90) made a layup off an inbounds pass with 7.1 seconds left in overtime, and Rob Brandenberg (6'3''-G) blocked a shot at the buzzer, giving VCU a 72-71 victory over Florida State in a Southwest Region semifinal. If the Rams can knock off top-seeded Kansas on Sunday, they will be headed to Houston next weekend as the biggest surprise in a tournament that's been filled with them.

'We're going to have to play much better than we did tonight,' VCU coach Shaka Smart said. 'Our guys know that, and I think we have it in us.'

The Rams (27-11) were up by nine points with 7:37 left, seemingly headed to another lopsided win. Then they nearly blew it. They scored just three more points in regulation, perhaps getting caught by the fatigue of being the only team that advanced by winning three games last week.

VCU's final attempt of the second half was blocked, giving Florida State one last shot. A long jumper didn't get over the front rim, setting up the extra period.

The Seminoles were up by one in the final seconds of overtime when Rams guard Joey Rodriguez (5'10''-G-88) stood underneath the basket ready to throw in the ball. VCU was going to run its favorite inbounds play, but FSU recognized what was coming and called a timeout to switch their defense.

Smart realized what the Seminoles were doing, so he switched to another play.

Burgess ended up weaving through several screens while Rodriguez made a ball fake to get the big guy guarding him leaning the wrong direction. With the 5-second count close to expiring, Rodriguez skipped the ball between two defenders, right to Burgess. He bobbled the pass a bit, then banked it in before the defense could recover.

'I had been messing up - my layups were getting blocked,' said Burgess, who scored 26 points, making 6 of 7 3-pointers. 'I wasn't going to the hole strong enough, and I said if I got the chance I wanted to win the game for the team.'

Florida State's Derwin Kitchen (6'4''-G-86), who missed the potential winner in regulation, had the ball in his hands again on the final possession in overtime. He drove the baseline, then passed it outside. The shot may have been too late to count, but Brandenburg avoided any controversy by swatting it, sending into the regional finals this program from the Colonial Athletic Association that had never even been to the regional semifinals.

'Guts - just guts and want-to,' Smart said of his team's recovery after its second-half pratfall.

The NCAA tournament selection committee was widely criticized for letting VCU into the field after the Rams lost five of its last eight games. Smart used that us-vs.-the-world schtick for motivation and half-jokingly said Thursday that he hoped it continued even if they beat Florida State. Well, there's no doubt they will hear it leading up to their matchup against Kansas.

The Jayhawks are coming off a 77-57 route of Richmond that wasn't even that close. They also are the lone No. 1 seed remaining, making them the favorites to win it all.

But the Rams might have as good of a chance as anyone to knock them out. Having already KO'd high-profile programs from the Pac-10 (Southern Cal), Big East (Georgetown), Big Ten (Purdue) and now the ACC, they could use someone from the Big 12 to round out their collection.

'It's going to be a fun game,' Rodriguez said. 'We're going come at them and we're going to run with them. It's going to be fun. It's a great opportunity. Cinderella gets the only No. 1 seed left. You couldn't ask for more.'

Florida State (23-11) hadn't been this far since 1993, and thought it had the team to keep going. The Seminoles certainly had the defense (allowing the lowest field-goal percentage in the country) and had star Chris Singleton back in as close to full gear as he's been since breaking his right foot in mid-February.

It still wasn't enough. Kitchen scored 23 points and Singleton was clutch as could be, making a tying 3-pointer with 45 seconds left in regulation and a go-ahead layup across the baseline with 29.2 seconds left in overtime. He finished with 16 points and nine rebounds.

'It didn't just come down to one play,' Florida State's Bernard James said. 'The game was decided in the first 30 minutes when we didn't play defense.'

The first NCAA tournament matchup between teams seeded 10 and 11 was tight throughout. VCU's biggest lead was nine; FSU's biggest was four.

The Seminoles outrebounded the Rams 47-32. Florida State had 21 on the offensive end, leading to 18 more shots than VCU. Yet it wasn't enough.

Even with their late woes, the Rams made 45 percent of their shots. They were 12 of 26 from behind the arc, realizing they were better off trying long-range shots than going against Florida State's size inside.

'They hit some really tough shots, shots that were heavily contested,' Seminoles coach Leonard Hamilton said. 'Almost from the parking lot, way beyond NBA range, at least three or four of them. ... Sometimes you have to give the other team credit. Even when we contested the shots they made those 3s.'

Courtesy of www.forbes.com

Kansas back in regional final after another rout - by Eurobasket News
Kansas might be sick of hearing how it's taking the easy way toward the Final Four, even if the top-seeded Jayhawks aren't exactly running into much trouble.

Twelfth-seeded Richmond sure didn't put up much of a fight. Even after getting into a shoving match with Kansas players before the game.

Brady Morningstar (6'3''-G-86) scored 18 points and Kansas, playing like the dominant No. 1 seed in a historic NCAA regional full of underdogs, knocked off Richmond 77-57 on Friday night to move a victory from returning to the Final Four for the first time since its 2008 championship.

Players exchanged shoves and words during a pregame logjam when Kansas entered the tunnel to the court while Richmond players still huddled. It ended quickly without much to talk about, and the Jayhawks went on their way.

The same could be said for the game.

'We were already fired up. We were ready to take them on,' Kansas forward Markieff Morris (6'9''-F) said. 'I think it showed when we went out there. We moved on. It was just a misunderstanding.'

The game itself was a mismatch. Kansas rolled past a third consecutive opponent and has won by an average of nearly 18 points in the tournament.

The Southwest regional was the first in NCAA history to have three double-digit seeded teams make it this far. Kansas will get another in Sunday's regional final against 11th-seeded Virginia Commonwealth, which beat 10th-seeded Florida State 72-71 in overtime.

It's given the Jayhawks what appears - at least on paper - to be an easy-looking path toward the Final Four. The Jayhawks can make it to Houston next week without having beaten a seed higher than ninth-seeded Illinois.

If that happens, Kansas will join Michigan State in 2001 and North Carolina in 1991 as the only schools to get that far without having to beat a seed higher than nine. And only five teams have reached the Final Four by feasting on teams seeded eighth or lower, according to STATS LLC.

One of those schools? The 2008 Jayhawks.

That run ended in the Alamodome with coach Bill Self winning his first title at Kansas. Three years later, the Jayhawks looked every bit at home in San Antonio.

Kansas will be coming right back to Texas if the beat the Rams on Sunday. The Final Four begins next week in Houston.

'There's no playing down to the competition. If you lose you lose and you go home,' Morris said. 'So we're going to play them like the North Carolinas or the Dukes.'

The Jayhawks were calm and confident in reaching a fourth regional final under Self. The Spiders, meanwhile, looked jittery in the what was only the school's second round-of-16 appearance.

Justin Harper (6'10''-F-89) led Richmond with 22 points. Kevin Anderson had 14.

'We can't worry about this game right now,' Richmond coach Chris Mooney said. 'We also can't celebrate the season we had right now.'

Self downplayed the pregame tunnel dustup as 'typical stuff, but it wasn't anything.' Anderson said both teams were just eager to play and chalked it up to usual aggression.

Still, Self waited for Richmond to exit through the tunnel at halftime before letting his players walk down the same tunnel toward the locker room. Kansas was already ahead 41-22.

The Jayhawks shot 48 percent from the floor and made nine of 19 3-pointers. Morningstar was 7 for 11 from the floor, including four 3-pointers. Josh Selby (6'2''-G) added nine points.

The loss stopped Richmond from reaching the first regional final in school history.

'We didn't really play that well tonight, so finishing like that is tough,' Richmond center Dan Geriot (6'9''-C-88) said. 'There was a lot left in there for us to have competed a little better.'

Mooney sought to inspire his players this week by showing them Richmond's stunning win at Allen Fieldhouse in 2004, which ended Kansas' 52-game home unbeaten streak against unranked opponents. It had been the only meeting between the schools before Friday.

This time, the Jayhawks never looked in trouble.

'At the end of the day it was all love,' Kansas guard Tyshawn Taylor (6'3''-G-90) said. 'We shook hands.'

Courtesy of www.statesman.com

Kentucky climbs as another No. 1 falls - by Eurobasket News
By the time Ohio State took the court late Friday night, Coach Thad Matta and his No. 1-seeded Buckeyes had seen many office-pool darlings eliminated from the N.C.A.A. tournament, chilling reminders of the madness of March.

Ohio State had barged its way to the East Regional unlike any other team that reached the Round of 16. But after two other top seeds, Pittsburgh and Duke, made sooner-than-predicted exits, the Buckeyes found themselves at the center of a scarlet-and-gray bulls-eye in the East Region.

In a thriller that came down to the final buzzer, Ohio State joined the ranks of the favorites to fall, victims of a 62-60 defeat to fourth-seeded Kentucky at the Prudential Center in a classic that will be recalled for years in Lexington.

Its hard, Matta said. I mean, I have to be honest with you, as I told them, I dont know what to say after the game.

While an interior battle between Kentucky's rugged forward Josh Harrellson (6'10''-F-89) and the Ohio State standout Jared Sullinger (6'9''-F) commanded attention, the night came down to a jumper by the guard Brandon Knight with 5.4 seconds left to secure the win.

Harrellson led Kentucky with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Sullinger scored 21 points and added 16 rebounds to lead the Buckeyes.

After Jon Diebler (6'6''-G) tied the game at 60-60 with 21.2 seconds remaining on a dead-on 3-pointer, Kentucky opted not to call a time out. Knight led a furious push down the court, opted not to curl around a screen and pulled up for an open look on the right side.

As his teammates jumped on the courtside tables, Knight celebrated by showing the crowd the Kentucky printed across his jersey. The Wildcats (28-8) will play No. 2 North Carolina (29-7) on Sunday in the East regional final.

I just thank God for being able to make shots like that, Knight said. And just when it comes to crunch time, a couple of seconds left and the game on the line, I focus in and make sure I am making the right decisions.

The Buckeyes (34-3) had crushed No. 16 Texas-San Antonio and No. 8 George Mason by an average of 30.5 points. In fact, they looked so convincing that a joke circulated that they were the states best basketball team, not the Cleveland Cavaliers of the N.B.A.

Incredible season, said Matta, whose only good news might have come afterward when Sullinger, a freshman, promised to return to Columbus next season. Incredible run for us. These guys, I told them Ive never had a team like this.

Still, despite receiving the top over all seed, Ohio State drew perhaps the most difficult route to the Final Four of the No. 1 teams. And the Wildcats, perhaps undervalued with their seed, presented a very different challenge from Ohio States two prior tournament games.

But Kentucky was shorthanded after five rotation players, including four starters, picked up two fouls by halftime. With the game tied at 30-30 at intermission, the Wildcats had 11 team fouls to Ohio States 2.

Although the Wildcats managed to stay in the game, their foul trouble created an intriguing subplot, limiting the versatile forward Terrence Jones (6'9''-F-85) to 25 minutes. Foul trouble or not, Coach John Calipari has used a limited bench all season.

They are fouling too! Calipari, who was assessed with a technical in the second half, screamed repeatedly at the officials.

Harrellson and Sullinger banged bodies in the paint and tussled for rebounds and loose balls. Harrellson, who was averaging 7.3 points a game, added some zest to the matchup in the first half by ferociously spiking a ball off Sullinger as he fell out of bounds, the type of schoolyard move that might have caused of fight had it not occurred in the N.C.A.A. tournament.

But Kentuckys biggest shot came from one of its quietest performers. Although Knight hit a game-winner over 13th-seeded Princeton in the Round of 64, he shot just 3 for 10 from the field Friday.

Every shot I shoot I want to go in, Knight said. I dont really see it as pressure. Sometimes you miss those shots. Sometimes you make them.

The Wildcats pulled ahead by 60-57 on a sidelines-out-of-bounds play after a timeout with 41.8 seconds to play, with Deandre Liggins kissing a runner off of the backboard. Diebler responded with a big shot of his own, making way for Knight.

As he sat in the Wildcats locker room, even the matter-of-fact Knight said he was unsure whether he would be able to fall asleep because of the excitement. But the Buckeyes locker room, a few steps down the hallway, was stunned silent after Ohio State became the latest heavyweight to go down.

It hurts just because we felt we could make a run at a championship, Diebler said. I mean, we had a great run. But it does hurt to kind of end like this.

Courtesy of www.nytimes.com

Tar Heels trample Marquette - by Eurobasket News
North Carolina might lose the East Regional final tomorrow afternoon. And if the Tar Heels reach the Final Four next week in Houston, there are no guarantees they will win.

But when North Carolina plays in the Round of 16, you can pretty much book it - much to the disappointment of Marquette, which was run over by Roy Williams's Tar Heels, 81-63, last night at the Prudential Center.

North Carolina's victory was its 10th straight in a regional semifinal.

If there was any doubt about North Carolinas readiness, it disappeared during an eight-minute stretch in which it turned a 10-10 tie into a 30-12 lead with a combination of steady offense and horrific Marquette shooting.

The Golden Eagles (22-15) entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 11 seed amid considerable skepticism about their credentials. They were the 11th Big East team to make the 68-team field.

But with victories over Xavier and Syracuse, Buzz Williams's team gained some respect.

Much to the dismay of the Marquette fans, the Golden Eagles confidence faded quickly last night. The team that had been built around four junior college transfers made only four of its first 20 shots.

For North Carolina (29-7), it was a return to the form it showed over the last half of the regular season to earn the Atlantic Coast Conference title.

Recently, the Tar Heels had looked beatable by almost all comers. They needed a buzzer-beater to defeat Miami in the quarterfinals of the ACC tournament and had to go to overtime to beat Clemson in the semis, before taking the afternoon off in a loss to Duke in the title game.

Even though the Tar Heels picked up the pace a bit with wins over Long Island and Washington last weekend, they didnt have the look or feel of a team with Final Four credentials, especially in a regional that included Kentucky and Ohio State.

That changed quickly in the first 20 minutes last night, led by the steady and at times spectacular front-court play of John Henson, Harrison Barnes (6'8''-F), and Tyler Zeller (7'0''-F-90), who scored 28 points as the Tar Heels blitzed their way to a 40-15 lead at the half. The 15 points was the second-fewest allowed by Carolina in a half of an NCAA Tournament game.

Zeller, the Tar Heels 7-foot junior center, had a career night with 27 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals. Henson added 14 points and 12 boards, and Barnes finished with 20 points and six rebounds.

We did a great job of forcing them out of their offense, and then just not letting them ever take a comfortable shot, said Zeller. So [that was] something that we probably didnt do as well in the second half, and we need to get better at.

For Marquette, it was a return to the building in which its season appeared to take a fatal fall, when it lost a 13-point decision March 5 to Seton Hall, which plays its home games in the Prudential Center.

Marquette forward Jae Crowder (6'6''-F) summed up the Golden Eagles feelings.

I hate this place, hate it, said Crowder, who scored 11 points and pulled down eight rebounds. I saw the brackets and when it said Newark, I said, Not this again. I was determined not to let what happened against Seton Hall happen again and we came out and played the same way. Its just a bad place for us.

Before the half, I kept saying that we had to get a basket somehow. We had zero assists. We needed to stop that run and we had no answers for it.

Courtesy of www.boston.com

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NCAA2

Bellarmine tops Mavs in DII semis - by Eurobasket News
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- Jeremy Kendle (6'1''-G) attracts accolades as if he is a magnet. The Bellarmine star is the player of the year in the Great Lakes Valley Conference, one of the best in the Midwest Region and an NCAA Division II All-American.

Bottome line is that he is really good.

So when the senior guard put his team on his shoulders Thursday night in a national semifinal, ignoring the pain running through his body because of cramps in his legs, no one was surprised.

Kendle willed the Knights to a victory in a riveting showdown against Minnesota-Mankato at the MassMutual Center, scoring 18 points, including a 3-pointer late in the game that gave his team a two-point edge, 66-64.

In the end, his effort was enough to lift the No. 2 Knights (32-2) to an 81-74 victory and a spot in their first national championship game.

Despite a gutsy effort, Kendle wasnt willing to take all of the credit. He was quick to shake it off like a helpless defender.

I have to credit my teammates. They found me when I was open and trusted in me to hit big shots down the stretch, Kendle said. Everyone on our team is an All-American. Without those guys pushing me in practice, I wouldnt be the player I am today.

Kendle played a huge role in the Knights success against the eighth-ranked Mavericks (28-5). He scored the first seven points of the second half to keep Bellarmine within striking distance of Mankato and managed to hit the trey that put the Knights in front by two (66-64) with 5:53 remaining.

The Mavericks tied the score at 66-66 moments later after Jefferson Mason (6'6''-G-88) nearly lost his balance but tipped in the ball off of a missed shot. Bellarmine quickly got the lead back as Braydon Hobbs nailed a 3-pointer.

You could see that Jeremy was trying to fight through the pain when he was cramping up, Bellarmine head coach Scott Davenport said. He is a tremendous competitor, but I think he is a better person than he is a player.'

Mankato and Bellarmine were tied at 38-38 at halftime, and you figured this game was going to come down to which team could make the big plays down the stretch, particularly on the defensive end of the floor.

The Knights ended up rising to the occasion. Down 64-63 after Mason made a layup, Bellarmine clamped down on defense. They gave up only one more field goal in the final four minutes of the game and sealed the deal with free-throw shooting.

Bellarmine only forced eight turnovers but they held Mankato to 43.6 percent shooting from the field and made it tough for them to run their offense with the season hanging in the balance.

Mason and Cameron Hodges scored 24 points apiece to pace the Mavericks, who saw their first ever trip to the national semfinals end in gut-wrenching fashion. Mason also grabbed 14 rebounds for the 24th double-double of his career.

We will not walk out of here with our heads hanging down, Mavericks head coach Matt Margenthaler said. Our guys played hard. We just couldnt make plays down the stretch. We had good looks. They didnt go down.

Bellarmine stayed the course even when Manakato seemed to have the momentum in its grasp early in the second half.

Marcus Hill, the quick and talented senior point guard for the Mavericks, was making plays left and right, dishing the ball off to open teammates, including a sharp pass in the corner to Taylor Morrow (6'3''-G), who swished a 3-pointer through the net to put his team ahead 51-47 with a little more than 15 minutes to play.

The lead wouldnt last and the Knights were able to turn the tide as the second half wore on.

Bellarmine shot 52 percent from the field and got 16 points from Justin Benedetti, who came through with a huge three-point play late by driving to the hoop and drawing a foul on the shot. The senior pumped his fist after the basket and sank the free throw to put Bellarmine in front 63-62.

Chris Dowe (6'2''-G) came off the bench and torched the Mavericks for 21 points, highlighting his effort with a thunderous one-hand dunk over a defender early in the first half that gave Bellarmine an 18-15 lead.

Hobbs and Luke Sprague scored 13 points apiece as the Knights ran their offense to near perfection and only turned the ball over four times.

You should have to play your best with a trip to the championship game on the line, and I thought we played really well tonight, Davenport said. Minnesota State has relentless rebounders and I thought we held our own in the second half and we also did a good job of sharing the basketball. That was the difference.

As for getting to the title game, Kendle has been waiting for this moment his entire career.

The Knights will look to become the first team from the Midwest Region to win a title since 2009 when Findlay capped a 36-0 season with a 56-53 overtime win against Cal Poly Pomona.

The only thing on our minds all year has been to win a national championship.,' Kendle said. 'We are proud we have an opportunity to accomplish the goal.
Courtesy of: Brian Lester, NCAA.com

BYU-Hawaii hands WLU first loss - by Eurobasket News
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- Tsung-Hsien Chang (6'4''-G-88) played lights out basketball against West Liberty in an NCAA Division II national semifinal Thursday night, slicing and dicing up the Hilltoppers for 43 points.

It was the kind of performance that people remember forever. Its also the kind of performance that helps teams win shootouts, which is what the unranked Seasiders (22-8) did here at the MassMutual Center, taking down the No. 1 team in the land with a wild 110-101 victory.

Tsung-Hsien Chang played the game of his life, and now, he and his BYU-Hawaii teammates will get the opportunity of a lifetime. The unranked Seasiders will battle No. 2 Bellarmine (32-2) Saturday afternoon for the right to be crowned national champions.

Its the best I have ever played, Tsung-Hsien Chang said. I had a lot of chances to shoot the ball, and I was able to knock down shots. But I also found my teammates for big shots. We won this game as a team.

Tsung-Hsien Chang has been averaging close to 20 points all season, so it would be crazy for anyone to act surprised that he set a new career high in points and turned in one of the best efforts in Elite Eight history. He shot 14-of-17 from the field and his seven 3-pointers puts him in the tie for the most ever at an Elite Eight game.

The thing is, Tsung-Hsien Chang wasnt the only one lighting up the scoreboard. Jake Dastrup (6'3''-G) poured in 18 points, hitting two big treys late in the half that pushed the Seasiders lead to 83-74 with 9:47 left in the game.

Marques Whippy (6'5''-G-86) and Gary Satterwhite (6'4''-G) pumped in 14 points apiece and Heath Gameren scored 10 points as the Seasiders shot 56.3 percent from the floor and essentially beat the Hilltoppers (33-1) at their own game. West Liberty came into this showdown averaging nearly 112 points per outing.

We played an incredible game and I am very proud of my young men, BYU-Hawaii head coach Ken Wagner said. Heath played a great game, Jake is one of the best shooters in the nation when he gets open shots and Jet was unbelievable. Our guys came together and beat an incredible basketball team.

This game was played at a frantic pace, both teams zipping up and down the floor for 40 minutes as they combined for 140 field goal attempts and hit a total of 26 treys.

By the time the first half ended, the Seasiders held a 58-47 lead and had the Hilltoppers back on their heels a bit.

But West Liberty State didnt go undefeated up to this point by accident. It has the ability to wipe out a deficit in the blink of an eye, and when Chris Morrow slashed into the lane for a layup with 12:47 to go, the Hilltoppers had a 73-72 advantage.

The two teams were tied at 97-97 with 2:30 to go before closing the game on a 13-4 run. The Hilltoppers tried to save their season but couldnt hit a 3-pointer when they really needed one.

BYU ran right through us, West Liberty head coach Jim Crutchfield said. I dont think we played bad, but they have such a great team. And when you turn a guy like Tsung-Hsien Chang loose on the court, he is going to be tough to stop.

The Hilltoppers shot 44.7 percent from the field and had their bid to become only the fifth unbeaten champion in D-II history hit a wall. Senior guard Corey Pelle did all he could to keep the Hilltoppers in the game, scoring 32, while Barry Shetzer poured in 23 points.

We knew we had a run in us, and we were able to make one a couple of times, but (Jet) stopped us every time, Pelle said. We had a hand in his face most of the time and he still made big shots. You have to give it up to him for a great performance.

There were no nerves for the Seasiders as they prepared for the challenge of taking on the Hilltoppers. It didnt matter that West Liberty has been winning games by an average of 31 points this year.

You wouldnt have even known the guys were playing the No. 1 team [Thursday], Wagner said. They were loose and having fun in practice. They went out and played a great game. Im proud of their effort.

Courtesy of: Brian Lester, NCAA.com

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PALESTINE

Standings - Men

PBBA Standings

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

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PBL

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Quinnel BROWN
  Quebec K.
  (198-G/F-83)
  Avg: 20

1. Brown, Quebec K.	20.0
2. Anderson, Saint J.	19.9
3. Jones, Kentucky S.	19.5
4. Egerson, Saint J.	18.6
5. Dollard, Halifax R.	17.8
6. Parran, Quebec K.	17.7
7. Perry, Dayton A.	15.2
8. Friel, Rochester R.	15.1
9. Monroe, Rocheste.	15.0
10. Martin, Saint J.	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Eric CROOKSHANK
  Halifax R.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 11

1. Crookshank, Halif.	11.0
2. Dollard, Halifax R.	8.3
3. Jones, Kentucky S.	8.2
4. Williams, Rocheste.	8.2
5. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC	8.2
6. Walton, Rocheste.	8.1
7. Sowell, Dayton A.	7.9
8. Harris, Kentucky S.	7.6
9. Brown, Quebec K.	7.5
10. Ocitti, Saint J.	7.3

Assists Per Game

Royce PARRAN
  Quebec K.
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Parran, Quebec K.	6.8
2. Rice, Saint J.	6.5
3. Brown, Halifax R.	6.2
4. Anderson, Saint J.	5.1
5. Bowden, Lawton F.	4.4
6. Crouch, Rocheste.	3.8
7. Egerson, Saint J.	3.7
8. Acker, Quebec K.	3.7
9. Taylor, Dayton A.	3.6
10. Fountain, Lawton F.	2.9

Steals Per Game

Royce PARRAN
  Quebec K.
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Parran, Quebec K.	2.7
2. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC	2.1
3. Anderson, Saint J.	1.9
4. Brown, Quebec K.	1.8
5. Bowden, Lawton F.	1.6
6. Taylor, Dayton A.	1.6
7. Martin, Saint J.	1.3
8. Dean, Lawton Ft.SC	1.3
9. Monroe, Rocheste.	1.3
10. Taylor, Kentucky S.	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Jared CARTER
  Rochester R.
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Carter, Rocheste.	1.7
2. Mims, Lawton Ft.SC	1.6
3. Crookshank, Halif.	1.2
4. Pierre, Quebec K.	1.1
5. Ocitti, Saint J.	1.1
6. Harris, Kentucky S.	0.8
7. Daniels, Lawton F.	0.8
8. DeMasi, Saint J.	0.8
9. Dollard, Halifax R.	0.7
10. Sowell, Dayton A.	0.6

Standings

PBL Standings

1. Lawton Ft.SC		17-2
2. Quebec K.		12-7
3. Rochester R.		11-8
4. Halifax R.		10-8
5. Saint John M.R.		8-9
6. Kentucky S.		6-13
7. Dayton A.		3-17
8. Vermont FH		2-5

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POLAND

Stats Leaders - 1Liga

Points Per Game

Michal JANKOWSKI
  Polonia 2011
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 17.7

1. Jankowski, Polonia .	17.7
2. Pacocha, AZS S.	17.5
3. Witos, GKS Tychy	17.4
4. Jarecki, GKS Tychy	16.3
5. Jakobczyk, Gornik	16.3
6. Michalak, Polonia .	16.0
7. Lichodzijews., ISS S.	15.8
8. Ustarbowski, Gor.	15.7
9. Mordzak, Asec.Pro.	15.0
10. Wojdyla, Asec.Pro.	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

Wojciech ZURAWSKI
  ISS Sportino
  (199-F/C-76)
  Avg: 9.8

1. Zurawski, ISS S.	9.8
2. Lichodzijews., ISS S.	9.0
3. Mielczarek, AZS S.	8.6
4. Wojdyla, Asec.Pro.	8.4
5. Mis, SKK Siedlce	8.2
6. Wilczek, Sokol Lancut	7.9
7. Klima, Sokol Lancut	7.7
8. Grudzinski, Spojnia	7.7
9. Luszczewski, Start L.	7.7
10. Lisewski, MMKS D.	7.6

Assists Per Game

Rafal WOJCICKI
  SKK Siedlce
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 6.2

1. Wojcicki, SKK S.	6.2
2. Brek, SKK Siedlce	5.9
3. Wilczek, Tempcold.	5.8
4. Stoklosa, Spojnia	5.0
5. Sikora, Start Lublin	5.0
6. Jakobczyk, Gornik	4.9
7. Zytko, ISS Sportino	4.8
8. Basinski, MMKS D.	4.6
9. Kowalski, Gornik	4.5
10. Mordzak, Asec.Pro.	4.4

Steals Per Game

Maciej USTARBOWSKI
  SKK Siedlce
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Ustarbowski, Gor.	3.1
2. Wojcicki, SKK S.	2.8
3. Malczyk, Asec.Pro.	2.7
4. Zytko, ISS Sportino	2.7
5. Muszynski, Gornik	2.6
6. Michalak, Polonia .	2.5
7. Klima, Sokol Lancut	2.5
8. Szymanski, Znicz B.	2.4
9. Wilczek, Tempcold.	2.2
10. Mielczarek, AZS S.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Adam LISEWSKI
  MMKS DG
  (206-F/C-80)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Lisewski, MMKS D.	2.6
2. Klima, Sokol Lancut	1.5
3. Szymanski, Znicz B.	1.5
4. Lichodzijews., ISS S.	1.4
5. Mis, SKK Siedlce	1.2
6. Kulikowski, Spojnia	1.1
7. Bzdyra, GKS Tychy	1.0
8. Pytys, AZS Szczecin	0.9
9. Glabas, Polonia 2011	0.9
10. Salamonik, LKS L.	0.9

Jarecki number one in Polish 1Liga for round 29 - by Eurobasket News
Guard Jacek Jarecki (197-G-88) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for GKS Tychy, receiving a Eurobasket.com 1Liga Player of the Week award for round 29.
The 22-year old player was the main contributor (27 points, seven rebounds and four assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush Astoria (#15, 6-23) with 22-point margin 90-68. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. GKS Tychy maintains the 13th position in Polish 1Liga. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 21 games and recorded just eight victories. In the team's last game Jarecki had a remarkable 88.9% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at GKS Tychy, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Jacek Jarecki averages this season 16.7ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old Karol Pytys (202-C-85) of AZS Szczecin. Pytys had a very good evening with a double-double of 17 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as AZS Szczecin lost that game 82-105 to the higher-ranked Asec.Prokom-2 (#7, 18-11). AZS Szczecin managed to keep the same 11th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 11-18 record. Pytys is one of the most experienced players at AZS Szczecin and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Wojciech Zurawski (199-F/C-76) of ISS Sportino Inowroclaw (#3). Zurawski scored 13 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of ISS Sportino, leading his team to a 75-62 easy win against the lower-ranked SKK Siedlce (#10, 12-17). ISS Sportino needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 21 victories and 8 lost games. Zurawski has a great season in Poland. After 28 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.9rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tomasz Wojdyla (201-F-77) of Asec.Prokom-2 - 21 points and 10 rebounds
5. Grzegorz Mordzak (183-G-77) of Asec.Prokom-2 - 20 points, 2 rebounds and 8 assists
6. Jaroslaw Mokros (201-F-90) of Tempcold AZS - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Dorian Szyttenholm (194-F-83) of Astoria - 14 points and 10 rebounds
8. Dawid Witos (190-G-83) of GKS Tychy - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Wiktor Grudzinski (208-C-78) of Spojnia - 13 points and 10 rebounds
10. Michal Aleksandrowicz (188-G-89) of Start Lublin - 8 points, 11 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)

Standings - 1 Liga

1Liga Standings

1. Tempcold AZS		24-6
2. MMKS DG		22-7
3. Rosasport		22-8
4. Sokol Lancut		21-9
5. ISS Sportino		21-9
6. LKS Lodz		20-10
7. Asec.Prokom-2		19-11
8. Spojnia		15-15
9. Znicz Basket		14-16
10. SKK Siedlce		12-17
11. AZS Szczecin		11-19
12. Start Lublin		10-20
13. GKS Tychy		8-22
14. Astoria		7-23
15. Gornik		7-23
16. Polonia 2011		6-24

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PORTUGAL

Standings - LPB

LPB Standings

1. Porto Ferpinta		18-1
2. Benfica		16-4
3. Academica		14-5
4. Vitoria SC		11-9
5. Ovarense		10-10
6. Penafiel		9-10
7. CAB		9-11
8. Sampaense		8-11
9. Ginasio		7-12
10. Illiabum		6-13
11. Lusitania		5-14
12. Barreirense		3-16

Standings - Proliga

Proliga Standings

1. Barcelos		15-4
2. Fisica		14-6
3. Angra		13-6
4. Galitos FC		13-7
5. Sangalhos		12-7
6. Terceira Basket		11-8
7. Povoa		10-9
8. Electrico FC		9-10
9. Guifoes		7-12
10. Alges		7-13
11. Maia Basket		5-14
12. Seixal		0-20

Stats Leaders - UZO Liga

Points Per Game

Tyrone CURNELL
  Barreirense
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 20.9

1. Curnell, Barreirense	20.9
2. Luettgerodt, Sampa.	20.8
3. Oruche, Ginasio	20.6
4. Jackson, Sampaense	19.8
5. Shaw, Academica	19.3
6. Austin, Vitoria SC	18.3
7. Goode, Penafiel	18.2
8. Eddie, Academica	17.6
9. Stempin, Porto F.	17.4
10. Johnson, Barreire.	17.4

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin MARTIN
  Vitoria SC
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Martin, Vitoria SC	10.3
2. Cortez, Ovarense	10.0
3. Shaw, Academica	9.8
4. Robert, Lusitania	9.6
5. Terrell, Porto F.	9.1
6. Nolen, Penafiel	8.9
7. Eddie, Academica	8.8
8. Jackson, Sampaense	8.8
9. Momplasir, Lusitania	8.8
10. Curnell, Barreirense	8.6

Assists Per Game

Nuno MANARTE
  Ovarense
  (184-G-75)
  Avg: 7.1

1. Manarte, Ovarense	7.1
2. Reveles, Ginasio	5.9
3. Sing, Sampaense	5.9
4. Minhava, Benfica	5.3
5. Monteiro, Lusitania	5.1
6. Simoes, Academica	4.9
7. Fernandes, CAB	4.5
8. Silva, CAB	4.1
9. Barroso, Ginasio	4.0
10. Andrade, Porto F.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Tyrone CURNELL
  Barreirense
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Curnell, Barreirense	3.4
2. Cortez, Ovarense	2.9
3. Goode, Penafiel	2.8
4. Jackson, CAB	2.7
5. Holland, Academica	2.5
6. Tavares, Vitoria SC	2.1
7. Felix, Illiabum	2.1
8. Silva, CAB	2.1
9. Thornton, Penafiel	2.0
10. Eddie, Academica	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Marcel MOMPLASIR
  Lusitania
  (205-C-81)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Momplasir, Lusitania	3.8
2. Nolen, Penafiel	1.4
3. Jackson, Sampaense	1.2
4. Gray, Sampaense	1.2
5. Coelho, CAB	1.1
6. Willis, Illiabum	1.1
7. Harris, Illiabum	1.1
8. Stempin, Porto F.	1.1
9. Gentry, CAB	1.1
10. Hartford, Ginasio	1.0

Porto wins Regular Phase with three rounds to play - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Playing a late fixture from Week 15, FC Porto Ferpinta confirmed the first place with a stunning victory over Sport Lisboa Benfica in Lisboa (84-103).

Starting very strong, the Dragons won an early advantage, allowing them to manage the game to their satisfaction, when everybody was guessing a complicated night. By halftime, Porto lead by 54-36 and few seemed to believe in the Reds reaction. Sport Lisboa Benfica outlined a modest recovery in the third quarter, but Moncho Lopez's team never lost control of the match. For the blues, two Portuguese were in the spotlight. Carlos Andrade (197-F-78, college: Queens, NC) (15 points, 7 assists) and Nuno Marcal (205-F-75) (23 points) were, with Julian Terrell (15 points, 8 rebounds), the biggest contributors to the win. For Sport Lisboa Benfica, Marquin Chandler (202-F-82, college: San Jose St.) (23 points) had a good debut in a match where Miguel Minhava (15 points, 6 assists) was also in good plan.

FC Porto Ferpinta strengthens its leadership in the LPB, ensuring the first place in the regular phase. In the fight for second place, Academica will have to cope with Sport Lisboa Benfica and Porto in the last three games, making Sport Lisboa Benfica favorites to get it. Julian Terrell (206-F-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Vanderbilt)

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PUERTO RICO

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

1. Coamo		1-0
2. Guaynabo		1-0
3. Mayaguez		1-0
4. Santurce		1-0
5. Capitanes		0-0
6. Quebradillas		0-0
7. Bayamon		0-1
8. Humacao		0-1
9. Isabela		0-1
10. San German		0-1

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ROMANIA

CSU Asesoft Ploiesti - BC Mures Targu-Mures match preview - by Sebastian Umbrich
The most interesting match of round 28 of the Romanian basketball championship will be the meeting between CSU Asesoft Ploiesti, the leader of the championship with a 23-4 record, and BC Mures Targu-Mures, a team ranked 4th, with a 20-7 record. In their first meeting earlier this season, Ploiesti won the match due to an extraordinary 4th quarter, a quarter which theyve won 25-14, securing their victory, 79-68. This season, Ploiesti lost a single match on home ground, against CSM Bucharest, while BC Mures lost 5 of the 13 matches played on the road, so from this point of view, the better odds are on Ploiestis side.
In the offense, the things are pretty interesting.
Qarraan Calhoun (203-F-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Houston) has the highest percentage of Ploiesti regarding the 2-point shots, having scored 60.4% of the total shots he has attempted from less than 6.60 m. In the opposite camp, the player with the highest 2-point percentage is the center Aleksandar Mladenovic (207-F/C-84, agency: BeoExcell), one of the best centers in the league, with a percentage of 61.0%. Ploiestis best sharpshooter is the same Qarraan Calhoun, who has scored nearly half of the shots from more than 6.60 m, has a percentage of 49.3%. The best sniper of Mures hasnt got such a high percentage, but the 37.5% of Flavius Lapuste (201-F-78) are worth mentioning. A chapter where Mures has done much better than Ploiesti are the free throws: Liviu Dumitru (203-C-79) made 89.7% of the free throws he has benefited from, and JuJuan Cooley (175-G-82, agency: Agency No 10, college: Indiana Tech), as well as from Mures and one of the best point guards in the league, has made 85 percent of the total free throws of this season. The player from Ploiesti with the highest percentage is Jason Westrol (191-G-88, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Bentley), who scored 73.6% of the free throws. In conclusion, it will be a very balanced game in the 2-point zone; Ploiesti will have a bit of advantage in the backcourt, while Mures could benefit more from the free throws.
As Michael Jordan said, the offense brings spectators, but defense brings performance. Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77, agency: Court Side) has an average of 6 defensive rebounds per game, while Jason Forte (196-F-84, college: S.Mississippi), the man with the most defensive rebounds per game from Mures, has 6.1 defensive rebounds. The blocks, a very important aspect of the defensive play, look better for Mures: Aleksandar Mladenovic has 1.5 blocks per game, while Catalin Burlacu has only 0.8 blocks per game.
Closing, the match looks like it will be a very high-quality match, offering two worth seeing duels: one in the frontcourt, between Aleksandar Mladenovic and Catalin Burlacu, and one in the backcourt, between two of the best guards in Romanian, Adrian Tudor and JuJuan Cooley.
The match is scheduled for Sunday, 27th March, 17:00, in the Olimpia sports hall from Ploiesti. The referees will be Alexandru Olaru from Bucharest, Ciprian Stoica from Sibiu and Cosmin Prisca from Medias.

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RUSSIA

PBL Team outscore PBL All-Stars in Nizhniy Novgorod - by Eurobasket News
PBL - PBL All-Stars 141:120 (30:22, 42:31, 24:42, 45:25)

PBL Team outscore PBL All-Stars in Nizhniy Novgorod as the event became the real show in the country. The city enjoyed the game of the stars as well as three-pointer Spalding contest and Slam Dunks.
The game started with PBL taking the lead and later in the period Zhukanenko and Eugeny Voronov (193-G-86) nailed threes for 30:22. In the second frame the picture did not change and after 42-31 in it PBL local stars enjoyed 72:53 halftime advantage. BEKO PBL Stars however were too far to give up and erupted with 20-2 in the start of the third quarter. They won the period 42-24 to trail 95:96 before the final stanza. The Russian players managed to prove their superiority in the game and won the last quarter. They produced 42-25 in it to finish with 141-120 win.
Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85) top-scored for the winners with 27 points and Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) netted 26. Eugeny Voronov posted 21, Sasha Kaun (211-C-85) collected 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Sergey Monya (203-F-83) had 16 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists. Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86, agency: RIZO) followed them with 12 points and 14 rebounds. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) answered with 26 points in the losing effort and Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) scored 25. Gerald Green (202-G/F-86, agency: Lanshire Group) delivered 24, whilst Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) netted 23. Sergey Monya was named MVP of the game, while Gerald Green won Slam Dunk Contest. Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, agency: Alti Sport, college: Duke) became the winner of the Spalding three-point contest.

PBL: Vitaly Fridzon 27, Andrey Vorontsevich 26, Eugeny Voronov 21, Sasha Kaun 20+10 rebs, Sergey Monya 16+8 rebs+8 asts, Anton Ponkrashov 12+14 rebs
PBL All-Stars: Maciej Lampe 26, Keith Langford 25, Gerald Green 24, Jamont Gordon 23

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SAUDI ARABIA

D1 Round 18: Al Fateh is defeated by Al Hilal - by Eurobasket News
The games are now more important than at the beginning of the Regular Season. We may still expect few shocking results in upcoming 4 rounds. There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with derby games and favorites losing the games.

The most important game in the last round took place in Riyadh between third ranked Al Fateh (13-5) and fourth ranked Al Hilal (14-4) on Thursday night. Al Fateh was defeated by Al Hilal in a tough game on the road 77-85. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Al Fateh. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Al Hilal have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Ansar. Al Fateh at the other side dropped to the fourth position with five games lost. Al Hilal is looking forward to face Al Wahda (#6) in Mecca in the next round. Al Fateh will play at home against Al Shrooq in Riyadh and is hoping to win this game.
Bottom-ranked Al Safwa managed to get a second victory, breaking the four-game losing streak. This time they won against eleventh-ranked Al Shrooq in Riyadh 97-89. Al Safwa (2-15) moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with defeated Al Shrooq. Al Safwa will play against higher ranked Al Jubail (#9) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Al Shrooq will play against Al Fateh where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.
D1 top team - Al Ittihad (17-0) had no problems winning another game on Thursday. This time they crushed tenth ranked Al Maseerah (2-14) in Jeddah 106-60. Undefeated Al Ittihad have an impressive 17-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-0 record. Loser Al Maseerah keeps the tenth place with 14 games lost. Al Ittihad's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Jeddah to the arena Al Ahli.
The game in Al Khobar was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Al Ansar (14-4) played at the court of 7th ranked Al Nahda (7-9). Al Ansar managed to secure a 6-point victory 77-71. Al Ansar have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Hilal. Al Nahda at the other side dropped to the eighth position with nine games lost. Al Ansar's next round opponent will be Al Maseerah (#10) in Jeddah and are hoping to win another game. Al Nahda will play on the road against Ohud in Medina.
The game in Mecca was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Al Ahli (8-9) played at the court of eighth ranked Al Wahda (8-9). Al Wahda managed to secure a 6-point victory 77-71 on Thursday. Al Wahda moved-up to sixth place, which they share with defeated Al Ahli. Al Wahda will face higher ranked Al Hilal (#3) in Riyadh in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.

Al Shrooq - Al Safwa 89-97

Bottom-ranked Al Safwa managed to get a second victory, breaking the four-game losing streak. This time they won against eleventh-ranked Al Shrooq in Riyadh 97-89. Al Safwa (2-15) moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with defeated Al Shrooq. Al Safwa will play against higher ranked Al Jubail (#9) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Al Shrooq will play against Al Fateh where they are definitely not considered as a favorite in this game either.

Al Nahda - Al Ansar 71-77

The game in Al Khobar was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Al Ansar (14-4) played at the court of 7th ranked Al Nahda (7-9). Al Ansar managed to secure a 6-point victory 77-71. Al Ansar have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Hilal. Al Nahda at the other side dropped to the eighth position with nine games lost. Al Ansar's next round opponent will be Al Maseerah (#10) in Jeddah and are hoping to win another game. Al Nahda will play on the road against Ohud in Medina.

Al Hilal - Al Fateh 85-77

The most important game in the last round took place in Riyadh between third ranked Al Fateh (13-5) and fourth ranked Al Hilal (14-4) on Thursday night. Al Fateh was defeated by Al Hilal in a tough game on the road 77-85. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Al Fateh. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Al Hilal have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place, which they share with Al Ansar. Al Fateh at the other side dropped to the fourth position with five games lost. Al Hilal is looking forward to face Al Wahda (#6) in Mecca in the next round. Al Fateh will play at home against Al Shrooq in Riyadh and is hoping to win this game.

Al Wahda - Al Ahli 77-71

The game in Mecca was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Al Ahli (8-9) played at the court of eighth ranked Al Wahda (8-9). Al Wahda managed to secure a 6-point victory 77-71 on Thursday. Al Wahda moved-up to sixth place, which they share with defeated Al Ahli. Al Wahda will face higher ranked Al Hilal (#3) in Riyadh in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.

Al Maseerah - Al Ittihad 60-106

D1 top team - Al Ittihad (17-0) had no problems winning another game on Thursday. This time they crushed tenth ranked Al Maseerah (2-14) in Jeddah 106-60. Al Ittihad have an impressive 17-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-0 record. Loser Al Maseerah keeps the tenth place with 14 games lost. Al Ittihad's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Jeddah to the arena Al Ahli.

D1 Standings

D1 Standings

1. Al Ittihad		17-0
2. Al Ansar		14-4
3. Al Hilal		14-4
4. Al Fateh		13-5
5. Ohud		9-6
6. Al Wahda		8-9
7. Al Ahli		8-9
8. Al Nahda		7-9
9. Al Jubail		4-12
10. Al Maseerah		2-14
11. Al Safwa		2-15
12. Al Shrooq		2-15

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

SERBIA

Standings - A Liga

A Standings

SuperLeague
1. Hemofarm		2-0
2. Partizan		2-0
3. Beograd		1-0
4. Radnicki		1-0
5. Metalac		1-1
6. FMP		0-2
7. Crvena Zvezda		0-2
8. Mega Vizura		0-2
Places 9-16
1. Tamis		15-11
2. Napredak		12-14
3. Sloga		12-14
4. Novi Sad		12-14
5. Sloboda Uzice		12-14
6. Vojvodina		12-14
7. Borac		11-15
8. Proleter Naftagas		10-16
9. Crnokosa		9-17
10. Superfund		1-25

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Nikola KOPRIVICA
  Iraklis
  (199-F-88)
  Avg: 20.7

1. Koprivica, Super.	20.7
2. Milisavljevi., Mega V.	20.7
3. Janjusevic, Crnok.	18.8
4. Zekovic, Beograd	18.8
5. Sinovec, Metalac	18.3
6. Micevic, Sloboda .	17.6
7. Bozovic, Sloga	17.4
8. Bunic, Novi Sad	16.6
9. Kovacevic, Super.	16.3
10. Majkic, Prolet.	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Nikola MARKOVIC
  FMP
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 7.8

1. Markovic, FMP	7.8
2. Ljubicic, Metalac	7.5
3. Cantekin, Mega V.	7.3
4. Jelovac, Mega V.	7.0
5. Misanovic, Beograd	6.9
6. Majkic, Prolet.	6.6
7. Bozovic, Sloga	6.4
8. Cubrilo, Sloga	6.4
9. Djurovic, Crnokosa	6.4
10. Borovcanin, Sloga	6.3

Assists Per Game

Vid ZARKOVIC
  Proleter Naftagas
  (189-G-75)
  Avg: 6

1. Zarkovic, Prolet.	6.0
2. Ljubicic, Metalac	5.7
3. Vlahovic, Sloga	5.1
4. Radivojevic, FMP	5.0
5. Milisavljevi., Mega V.	4.6
6. Covic, FMP	4.4
7. Kocergin, Superfund	4.3
8. Atanackovic, Prolet.	4.3
9. Mitrovic, Beograd	4.3
10. Dundjerski, Beograd	3.7

Steals Per Game

Slobodan DUNDJERSKI
  Beograd
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Dundjerski, Beograd	2.9
2. Kuzeta, Novi Sad	2.7
3. Gagovic, Prolet.	2.3
4. Ljubicic, Metalac	2.1
5. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	2.0
6. Mukanovic, Crnok.	2.0
7. Jovic, Sloga	1.9
8. Kovacevic, Novi Sad	1.9
9. Vulin, Prolet.	1.8
10. Fekete, Sloboda .	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Nenad MISANOVIC
  T.E.Kashan
  (217-C-84)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Misanovic, Beograd	1.9
2. Bircevic, Metalac	1.3
3. Ilic, FMP	1.3
4. Majkic, Prolet.	1.1
5. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	0.9
6. Cantekin, Mega V.	0.9
7. Ljubojevic, Slobod.	0.8
8. Buric, Tamis	0.8
9. Dramicanin, Mega V.	0.7
10. Kalinic, Novi Sad	0.7

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

SLOVAKIA

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Adam MCCOY
  Vahostav-Zilina
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 26.6

1. McCoy, Svit	26.6
2. Fears, Prievidza	23.3
3. Burrows, Komarno	21.7
4. Delic, Handlova	21.0
5. Carter, Vahostav.	20.4
6. Sapp, Pezinok	20.2
7. Tomek, Nitra	19.4
8. Jackson, Komarno	19.2
9. Lukjanec, Pezinok	17.6
10. Bosak, Nitra	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

Branislav TOMEK
  Nitra
  (205-C-83)
  Avg: 12.4

1. Tomek, Nitra	12.4
2. Jackson, Komarno	11.2
3. Szalay, Prievidza	9.6
4. Delic, Handlova	9.4
5. Micuda, Pezinok	8.2
6. Carter, Vahostav.	8.1
7. Erwin, Nitra	8.0
8. Johnson, Nova Ves	7.9
9. Johnson, Komarno	7.7
10. Burrows, Komarno	7.5

Assists Per Game

Ronald MOORE
  Nitra
  (183-G-88)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Moore, Nitra	6.9
2. Jones, Komarno	6.5
3. Jefferson, Nova Ves	5.8
4. Fears, Prievidza	5.6
5. Cosic, Svit	5.2
6. Sapp, Pezinok	4.4
7. Kostomaj, Levice	4.3
8. Milosevic, Pezinok	4.1
9. Gavlak, Handlova	4.0
10. Micka, Svit	3.6

Steals Per Game

Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Fears, Prievidza	3.1
2. Carter, Vahostav.	2.5
3. Moore, Nitra	2.5
4. Jefferson, Nova Ves	2.2
5. Nuber, Handlova	2.2
6. Sapp, Pezinok	2.0
7. Jones, Komarno	2.0
8. Zavodny, Vahost.	1.8
9. Zilik, Inter B.	1.7
10. Velcic, B.Bystrica	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Gabriel SZALAY
  Prievidza
  (215-C-86)
  Avg: 2

1. Szalay, Prievidza	2.0
2. Micuda, Pezinok	1.9
3. Jackson, Komarno	1.4
4. Mroz, Nova Ves	1.2
5. Batka, Nova Ves	1.1
6. Carter, Vahostav.	1.0
7. Burrows, Komarno	0.9
8. Tomek, Nitra	0.8
9. Lukjanec, Pezinok	0.8
10. McCoy, Svit	0.8

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

SLOVENIA

Standings - 1A

Telemach Standings

Group A
1. Union Olimpija		2-0
2. Zlatorog		2-0
3. Krka		1-0
4. Helios		1-1
5. Elektra		0-1
6. Polzela		0-1
7. Maribor Messer		0-1
8. Geoplin Slovan		0-2
Group B
1. Sentjur		7-11
2. LTHcast Mercator		4-14
3. Parklji		1-17

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 20.6

1. Panic, Zlatorog	20.6
2. Simovic, Sentjur	17.1
3. Erzen, Parklji	17.0
4. Thondique, Polzela	16.5
5. Djapa, Geoplin Slovan	15.2
6. Harmason, Sentjur	15.1
7. Bubnic, Helios	14.6
8. Mijajlovic, Polzela	14.3
9. Miljkovic, Elektra	14.2
10. Mali, Helios	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Thondique, Polzela	11.2
2. Simovic, Sentjur	8.6
3. Miljkovic, Elektra	8.4
4. Nuhanovic, Elektra	8.3
5. Krusic, Geoplin .	6.7
6. Zolotic, Maribor .	6.3
7. Paravinja, Parklji	5.9
8. Cebasek, Parklji	5.9
9. Erzen, Parklji	5.8
10. Dimec, Zlatorog	5.6

Assists Per Game

Boris JERSIN
  Elektra
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Jersin, Elektra	4.5
2. Brolih, Maribor .	4.4
3. Vujasinovic, Zlatorog	4.3
4. Mijajlovic, Polzela	4.3
5. Hohler, Sentjur	3.9
6. Harmason, Sentjur	3.8
7. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	3.5
8. Petrovic, Helios	3.4
9. Zagorc, Helios	3.2
10. Pelko, Zlatorog	3.0

Steals Per Game

Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Thondique, Polzela	2.5
2. Mezek, LTHcast .	2.0
3. Vranjkovic, Helios	1.9
4. Harmason, Sentjur	1.6
5. Zagorc, Helios	1.6
6. Zadnik, Geoplin .	1.6
7. Lapornik, Zlatorog	1.6
8. Mahkovic, LTHcas.	1.6
9. Jovanovic, Maribo.	1.5
10. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Nuhanovic, Elektra	1.8
2. Thondique, Polzela	1.2
3. Dimec, Zlatorog	1.2
4. Sviridov, Polzela	0.9
5. Mijajlovic, Zlatorog	0.6
6. Djapa, Geoplin Slovan	0.6
7. Bubnic, Helios	0.6
8. Miljkovic, Elektra	0.5
9. Morina, LTHcas.	0.5
10. Bozovic, Zlatorog	0.5

Huge run in third quarter lifts Olimpija, Parklji end winless streak at 24 - by Zeljko Zule
Union Olimpija used huge run, 15-0, in the third quarter to beat Helios in the rematch of Cup's finals. Parklji got their win since last season, April 20 at Trbovlje.
Helios-Union Olimpija 75-87: There were 11 lead changes before Olimpija took control. They went on 15-0 run in the third quarter to go ahead 62-47 and its defense held Helios scoreless for a 4:20 span. Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) finished with 20 points, Vladimer Boisa contributed 16 points, Vlado Ilievski 14 and Aloysius Anagonye 10. Olimpija outrebounded Helios 35-19. Helios was led by Grega Mali with 16 points, Marko Lekic added 14, Benjamin Raymond 13, Vjeko Petrovic 12 and Vlado Pasalic 10.
Parklji-LTHcast Mercator 73-66: Jaka Cebasek had 11 points and 13 rebounds, Jure Erzen scored 24 points, Matej Luznar 14 and Dario Krejic 11 as Parklji snapped their 24-game winless streak with a 73-66 win over LTHcast Mercator. Paklji finished six losses shy of matching the league's record losing streak, 30 in a row by the 2009-10 Sencur CPK. Gezim Morina led LTH with 15 points, Vladimir Mihailovic added 12 and Primoz Skok 10.

Zlatorog tops Slovan 66-45, for first win in Kodeljevo since 2007 - by Zeljko Zule
Zlatorog got their first win in Hall Kodeljevo since 2007, 66-45 over Geoplin Slovan in the opening game od Telemach Superlague Round 2. After trailing 14-16 in the first quarter, Zlatorog scored 15 straight points and its defense held scoreless Slovan for a 7:19 spain. Junior center Alen Omic (213-C-92) came off the bench for the game high 16 points, Simo Atanackovic added 11 and Jure Pelko 10. Zlatorog's bench players outscored its starters 41-25. Slovan was led by Jaka Blazic with 12 points, Matej Krusic had 11. Zlatorog played without injured leading scorer Vladimir Panic and Slovan was short-handed too, playing without Miha Fon and Dalibor Djapa.

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

SOUTH KOREA

KBL Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Dongbu Promy - LG Sakers 63-55

LG Sakers trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 14-11 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 55-63 at the end of the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Dongbu Promy made 12 blocks. 25 personal fouls committed by LG Sakers helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American power forward Rod Benson (208-84, college: California) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and guard Jin-Won Hwang (189-78) chipped in 19 points. At the losing side American center Chris Alexander (216-80, college: Iowa St., agency: Priority Sports) responded with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds and naturalized American forward Greg Stevenson (198-78, college: Richmond, agency: SportsTalent) scored 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. LG Sakers' coach Eul-Jun Kang rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Dongbu Promy: J.Hwang 19+3reb+2ast, J.Park 15+4reb+1ast, R.Benson 11+11reb+2ast, H.Yoon 9+4reb+3ast, J.Kim 6+6reb+3ast, V.Thomas 3+3reb
LG Sakers: G.Stevenson 13+7reb+4ast, C.Alexander 12+11reb+1ast, 11+6reb, H.Park 6+1reb+1ast, J.Han 5+4reb, H.Lee 4+1ast

KCC Egis - Samsung Th. 105-77

The game without a history. KCC Egis led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot 64.4 percent from the field and made 19-of-20 free shots (95.0 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for KCC Egis especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 66.7 percentage. American center Chris Daniels (211-84) stepped up and scored 24 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his ten free throws !!!) for the winners and the former international guard Byung-Hyun Kang (193-85) chipped in 23 points and 4 assists. KCC Egis' coach Jae Hur felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) responded with 13 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import power forward Nigel Dixon (205-80, college: W.Kentucky) scored 16 points and 6 rebounds. Five KCC Egis and four Samsung Thunders players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
KCC Egis: C.Daniels 24+7reb+1ast, B.Kang 23+4reb+4ast, S.Choo 15+2reb+4ast, E.Dawson 14+4reb+1ast, J.Lim 11+2ast, S.Ha 4+5reb+2ast
Samsung Th.: N.Dixon 16+6reb, J.Lee 16+2reb+4ast, D.Kim 14+1reb+2ast, A.Haynes 13+6reb+3ast, E.Sandrin 8+1ast, K.Lee 8+1reb+4ast

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

SPAIN

Points Per Game

Jonathan BARCELO
  Plasencia
  (192-F/G-79)
  Avg: 16.7

1. Barcelo, Plasencia	16.7
2. Ramsdell, Avila	15.8
3. Witt, Clavijo	15.8
4. O''Leary, Oviedo F.	15.7
5. Ratzsch, Oviedo F.	15.6
6. Bivia, Mallorca	14.8
7. Mortellaro, Lan M.	14.8
8. Bratton, Lan M.	14.5
9. Paez, Lan M.	14.5
10. Mesa, Clavijo	14.2

Rebounds Per Game

Olaseni LAWAL
  Guadalajara
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Lawal, Guadalajara	10.8
2. O''Leary, Oviedo F.	9.7
3. De Santana, Clavijo	8.8
4. Adams, Coruna	8.4
5. Chubrevich, Illescas	8.2
6. Mortellaro, Lan M.	8.0
7. Mesa, Clavijo	7.8
8. Ramsdell, Avila	7.7
9. Larry, Regal F.	7.4
10. Howard, Andorra	7.3

Assists Per Game

Matt WITT
  Clavijo
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 6

1. Witt, Clavijo	6.0
2. Uriz, Santurtzi	5.0
3. Ibargutxi, Lan M.	4.9
4. Lopez, Coruna	4.7
5. Marco, ADT T.	4.0
6. Bivia, Mallorca	4.0
7. Pampin, Mallorca	3.5
8. Rufian, Promobys	3.4
9. Machuca, Illescas	3.3
10. Casado, Santurtzi	3.2

Steals Per Game

Jonathan BARCELO
  Plasencia
  (192-F/G-79)
  Avg: 2

1. Barcelo, Plasencia	2.0
2. Uriz, Santurtzi	2.0
3. Adams, Coruna	2.0
4. Martinez, Plasencia	1.8
5. Guirao, ADT T.	1.8
6. Bratton, Lan M.	1.6
7. Rueda, Plasencia	1.6
8. Pampin, Mallorca	1.6
9. Smith, Guadalajara	1.6
10. Witt, Clavijo	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Bismack BIYOMBO
  Fuenlabrada
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Biyombo, Illescas	1.9
2. Mbaye, Regal F.	1.8
3. Todorovic, Prat J.	1.5
4. Green, Mallorca	1.4
5. Lawal, Guadalajara	1.3
6. Conde, Avila	1.2
7. De Santana, Clavijo	1.2
8. Cage, ADT Tarragona	1.0
9. O''Leary, Oviedo F.	0.9
10. Chubrevich, Illescas	0.9

Standings - LEB Silver

LEB Silver Standings

1. Clavijo		22-3
2. Mallorca		20-5
3. Promobys		17-8
4. Andorra		17-8
5. Plasencia		15-11
6. Prat Juventud		14-11
7. ADT Tarragona		13-12
8. Oviedo Feve		12-13
9. Regal FC II		11-14
10. Avila		10-15
11. Coruna		9-16
12. Santurtzi		8-18
13. Guadalajara		7-18
14. Lan Mobel ISB		7-18
15. Illescas		7-19

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game

Jaycee CARROLL
  Gran Canaria
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 18.6

1. Carroll, Gran Canaria	18.6
2. Navarro, Regal B.	16.4
3. McDonald, DKV J.	15.2
4. English, DKV J.	15.1
5. Martinez, Valencia	15.0
6. Baron, Lagun A.	14.8
7. Caner-Medley, Estudi.	14.0
8. Kurz, Granada	13.9
9. Teletovic, Caja L.	13.9
10. Davis, Cajasol	13.0

Rebounds Per Game

Robert KURZ
  Art.Dragons
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 9.1

1. Kurz, Granada	9.1
2. Batista, Fuenlabr.	8.4
3. Caner-Medley, Estudi.	7.6
4. Barac, Caja Laboral	6.9
5. Donaldson, Menorca	6.7
6. Miralles, Lagun A.	6.4
7. Doellman, Meridiano	6.4
8. Trias, DKV Joventut	6.4
9. Freeland, Unicaja	6.3
10. Wallace, Gran Canaria	6.3

Assists Per Game

Marcelinho HUERTAS
  Caja Laboral
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Huertas, Caja L.	5.9
2. Cook, Valencia	5.2
3. Valters, Fuenlabr.	4.6
4. Rubio, Regal Barca	4.5
5. Ciorciari, Menorca	4.4
6. Uriz, Lagun A.	4.0
7. Prigioni, Real Madrid	3.9
8. San Miguel, Manre.	3.8
9. Colom, Fuenlabrada	3.8
10. Green, Gran Canaria	3.7

Steals Per Game

Tariq KIRKSAY
  Cajasol
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Kirksay, Cajasol	2.1
2. Batista, Fuenlabr.	1.8
3. Cook, Valencia	1.8
4. Calloway, Cajasol	1.8
5. Robinson, DKV J.	1.8
6. Van Lacke, Valladolid	1.7
7. San Miguel, Manre.	1.7
8. Davis, Cajasol	1.7
9. Hosley, DKV J.	1.6
10. Rubio, Regal Barca	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Bismack BIYOMBO
  Fuenlabrada
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Biyombo, Fuenlabr.	1.9
2. Fischer, Real Madrid	1.6
3. Vazquez, Regal B.	1.5
4. Ayon, Fuenlabrada	1.4
5. Kurz, Granada	1.3
6. Barnes, Valladolid	1.3
7. Majstorovic, Manre.	1.2
8. Savane, Gran C.	1.1
9. Andriuskevic., Meridi.	1.1
10. Batista, Fuenlabr.	1.1

Standings - ACB

ACB Standings

1. Regal Barca		22-4
2. Real Madrid		21-6
3. Valencia		17-9
4. Valladolid		16-10
5. Caja Laboral		16-10
6. Bizkaia Bilbao		16-11
7. Unicaja		14-12
8. Fuenlabrada		14-12
9. Gran Canaria		14-13
10. Cajasol		13-13
11. Estudiantes		13-13
12. DKV Joventut		13-13
13. CAI Zaragoza		12-14
14. Lagun Aro GBC		9-17
15. Manresa		9-17
16. Meridiano		7-19
17. Menorca		5-21
18. Granada		5-22

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

SWEDEN

Stats Leaders - Basketligan

Points Per Game

Darius HARGROVE
  Jamtland
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 22.3

1. Hargrove, Jamtland	22.3
2. Smith, Sodertalje	20.6
3. Brown, 08	20.5
4. Rush, Sundsvall	19.7
5. Smith, Uppsala	19.6
6. Palm, Boras	19.3
7. Wesby, Sundsvall	18.6
8. McCoy, Boras	18.4
9. Gunnarsson, Solna	17.8
10. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	16.4

Rebounds Per Game

Hlynur BAERINGSSON
  Sundsvall
  (200-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Baeringsson, Sunds.	10.4
2. Palm, Boras	10.2
3. McKnight, Boras	8.8
4. Kosmalski, Solna	8.6
5. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	8.0
6. Brown, 08	7.9
7. Constantine, Solna	7.5
8. Cipriano, Eco O.	7.5
9. Walker, Solna	7.4
10. Kohlmaier, Uppsala	7.0

Assists Per Game

Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Mbemba, LF Basket	6.3
2. Pleick, Eco Orebro	5.5
3. Beck, 08	5.1
4. Smith, Uppsala	4.6
5. Chuk, Sodertalje	4.4
6. McCoy, Boras	4.4
7. Mitchell, Norrkoping	4.3
8. Hellgren, Jamtland	4.1
9. Gaidamaviciu., Norrko.	4.1
10. Baeringsson, Sunds.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Smith, Sodertalje	3.3
2. Mbemba, LF Basket	3.0
3. Rush, Sundsvall	1.9
4. Smith, Uppsala	1.9
5. Pleick, Eco Orebro	1.8
6. Hargrove, Jamtland	1.8
7. Hellgren, Jamtland	1.8
8. Baeringsson, Sunds.	1.8
9. Brown, 08	1.7
10. McCoy, Boras	1.7

Blocks Per Game

John ROSENDAHL
  LF Basket
  (203-F/C-77)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Rosendahl, LF Ba.	1.9
2. Salaam, Jamtland	1.8
3. Kjellbom, Norrkoping	1.7
4. Palm, Boras	1.4
5. Cipriano, Eco O.	1.3
6. Constantine, Solna	1.3
7. Ayuba, Norrkoping	1.1
8. Kohlmaier, Uppsala	1.1
9. Walker, Solna	0.9
10. Galick, Sodertalje	0.8

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

SWITZERLAND

Kevyn Popovich gets MVP of the Week award for Swiss LNA - by Eurobasket News
American Kevyn Popovich (196-F-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for SAV Vacallo Basket and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
The 25-year old forward had the game-high 36 points adding five rebounds and two assists for SAV Vacallo in his team's victory, helping them to crush SAM Massagno (#8, 9-17) with 24-point margin 107-83. SAV Vacallo maintains the 4th position in Swiss LNA. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. SAV Vacallo will need more victories to improve their 16-10 record. In the team's last game Popovich had a remarkable 84.6% from 2-point range. He turned to be SAV Vacallo's top player in his first season with the team. Southeastern Louisiana University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Popovich is in league's top in points (5th best: 20.2ppg) and averages solid 57.9% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old American guard Tony Brown (193-G-79) of Starwings Basket Regio Basel. Brown impressed basketball fans with 29 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Bad luck as Starwings lost that game 71-83 to the higher-ranked Geneve Lions (#3, 18-8). Starwings managed to keep the same 6th spot in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 13-13 record is not bad and everything may still change. Brown is well-known by Starwings fans and he already established his position as one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.1ppg (#7). He also recorded 4.9 assists per game.

The third best performed player last round was international center Oliver Vogt (209-C-80) of second-ranked Fribourg. Vogt scored 18 points and grabbed sixteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Fribourg, leading his team to a 85-80overtime win against #1 ranked Lugano Tigers in a game of the week. Fribourg needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 19 victories and 7 lost games. Vogt has a very solid season. In 26 games in Switzerland he scored 13.0ppg. He also has 6.7rpg and FGP: 60.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ali Farokhmanesh (183-G-88) of SAM Massagno - 26 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Rickey Gibson (191-G-84) of SAV Vacallo - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 14 assists
6. Cruz Daniels (211-C-85) of BBC Nyon - 18 points and 15 rebounds
7. Shorown Glover (180-PG-87) of Boncourt - 27 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Jonathan Kazadi (195-G-91) of Fribourg - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists
9. Matt Schneiderman (205-F/C-81) of Lugano Tigers - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Steve Smith (200-F-81) of Fribourg - 22 points, 7 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)

Standings - LNA

LNA Standings

1. Lugano Tigers		24-3
2. Fribourg		20-7
3. Geneve Lions		18-8
4. Monthey		16-11
5. SAV Vacallo		16-11
6. Starwings		13-14
7. Boncourt		12-15
8. SAM Massagno		10-17
9. BBC Nyon		4-22
10. Zurich Wildcats		1-26

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

TAIWAN

SBL Round 3 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan Beer - Yulon Luxgen 92-74

Taiwan Beer grabbed the third straight win in the series versus Yulon Luxgen. The game was mostly controlled by Taiwan Beer. Yulon Luxgen managed to win second period 15-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Taiwan Beer shot 61.7 percent from the field. Taiwan Beer had a 31-19 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Yulon Luxgen's players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Taiwan Beer made 9 blocks. It was a great evening for international swingman Yang Ching-Min (188-G/F-84) who led his team to a victory scoring 32 points and 8 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field). American forward Emmanuel Jones (200-85, college: UTPA) helped adding 13 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Jones is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. The best for the losing side was American forward Jermaine Dailey (203-86, college: Ill.-Chicago, agency: SportsList Inc.) with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 14 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and the former international forward Che-Yi Yang (193-78) scored 17 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Yulon Luxgen: C.Yang 17+5reb+1ast, C.Lu 16+2reb+1ast, J.Dailey 15+14reb, L.Canopy 11+1reb+2ast, C.Lee 6+5reb+3ast, C.Lin 5+2reb
Taiwan Beer: C.Yang 32+8reb+2ast, T.Wu 13+5reb+3ast, E.Jones 13+9reb+4ast, J.Cheng 10+5reb+6ast, Y.Yang 7+4reb+1ast, S.Ho 6+3reb

Pure Youth - Dacin Tigers 67-76

Dacin Tigers are one step away from the championship series after they knocked down Pure Youth for the third time in a row. Pure Youth was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Strangely Pure Youth outrebounded Dacin Tigers 47-35 including a 22-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Lei Tien (203-83) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 rebounds. Vincentian-American forward Alexus Foyle (198-78, college: BYU-Hawaii, agency: Prossin Sports Management) accounted for 24 points and 8 rebounds for the winning side. International swingman Chia En Mao (196-82) came up with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 10 rebounds and American forward Rashad Jennings (203-84, college: UALR) added 17 points and 24 rebounds respectively for Pure Youth in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Pure Youth: C.En Mao 30+10reb+1ast, R.Jennings 17+24reb, C.Chien 9+5reb, T.Lin 4+2reb, C.Hung 3+1reb+2ast, T.Zuo 2+1reb
Dacin Tigers: L.Tien 28+14reb+1ast, A.Foyle 24+8reb+3ast, C.Wang 8+2reb, Y.Lin 6+2reb+2ast, H.Hsu 4+3reb+3ast, C.Chang 4+4reb+1ast

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Shawn HAWKINS
  KKL
  (198-G/F-82)
  Avg: 27

1. Hawkins, KKL	27.0
2. Foyle, Dacin Tigers	20.8
3. Tien, Dacin Tigers	18.5
4. Chen, Bank o.	18.4
5. Chen, KKL	18.3
6. Dove, Taiwan Mobile	18.1
7. Jones, Taiwan Beer	17.9
8. Vaudreuil, Bank o.	16.9
9. Jennings, Pure Y.	16.1
10. Lu, Yulon Luxgen	15.7

Rebounds Per Game

Rashad JENNINGS
  Pure Youth
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 20.8

1. Jennings, Pure Y.	20.8
2. Dailey, Yulon Luxgen	15.8
3. Hawkins, KKL	12.9
4. Jones, Taiwan Beer	11.2
5. Vaudreuil, Bank o.	11.0
6. Dove, Taiwan Mobile	11.0
7. Foyle, Dacin Tigers	10.6
8. Tien, Dacin Tigers	8.0
9. Chen, KKL	6.4
10. Hsu, Bank o.	6.4

Assists Per Game

Chih-Chung CHEN
  Yulon Luxgen
  (185-G-77)
  Avg: 4.1

1. Chen, Yulon Luxgen	4.1
2. Wu, Taiwan Mobile	3.7
3. Su, Taiwan Mobile	3.5
4. Chen, Taiwan Beer	3.3
5. Chang, Dacin Tigers	3.3
6. Hsu, Dacin Tigers	3.2
7. Chen, KKL	2.8
8. Lin, Bank o.	2.7
9. Yang, Taiwan Beer	2.6
10. Hawkins, KKL	2.5

Steals Per Game

Marcus DOVE
  Taiwan Mobile
  (206-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Dove, Taiwan Mobile	2.3
2. Lin, Bank o.	1.7
3. Jones, Taiwan Beer	1.7
4. Chang, Dacin Tigers	1.6
5. Su, Taiwan Mobile	1.6
6. Chou, Yulon Luxgen	1.4
7. Jennings, Pure Y.	1.3
8. Chen, KKL	1.3
9. Mao, Pure Youth	1.3
10. Chen, Taiwan Beer	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Marcus DOVE
  Taiwan Mobile
  (206-G/F-85)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Dove, Taiwan Mobile	1.9
2. Jones, Taiwan Beer	1.8
3. Tien, Dacin Tigers	1.6
4. Dailey, Yulon Luxgen	1.5
5. Wu, Taiwan Beer	1.4
6. Jennings, Pure Y.	1.3
7. Cheng, Taiwan Beer	1.0
8. Lee, KKL	0.9
9. Vaudreuil, Bank o.	0.8
10. Hung, KKL	0.6

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

TURKEY

Standings - TBL

TBL Standings

1. Fener.Ulker		20-3
2. Galatasaray		18-4
3. Banvit		17-5
4. Efes Pilsen		16-7
5. Karsiyaka		15-7
6. Besiktas		15-8
7. Olin Edirne		14-9
8. Antalya		12-11
9. Erdemir		9-14
10. Tofas		8-14
11. Trabzonspor		8-15
12. Turk Telekom		8-15
13. Aliaga		6-16
14. Bornova		6-16
15. Mersin		6-17
16. Oyak Renault		3-20

TB2L Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Tyrone ANDERSON
  Basaksehir
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 21.9

1. Anderson, Basak.	21.9
2. Nelson, Akhisar Bld	20.3
3. Hall, Kepez Bld	20.0
4. Johnson, Vestel	19.7
5. Gardener, Final G.	18.6
6. Boddicker, Selcuk U.	18.4
7. Boswell, Basaksehir	18.3
8. Tekinalp, ITU	17.6
9. Boykin, Gaziantep	17.5
10. Wright, Orman Genc	17.3

Rebounds Per Game

Jason KEEP
  Adanaspor
  (208-C-78)
  Avg: 12.8

1. Keep, Adanaspor	12.8
2. Terell, Adanaspor	11.9
3. Gardener, Final G.	11.4
4. Nelson, Akhisar Bld	10.7
5. Isik, Pertevniyal	10.3
6. Johnson, Istanbul.	10.0
7. Miller, Gelisim	9.3
8. Johnson, Vestel	9.3
9. Boswell, Basaksehir	9.2
10. Kolaric, Genc Banvit	9.1

Assists Per Game

Admir KAN
  TED Istanbul
  (185-G-83)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Kan, TED Istanbul	6.1
2. Hall, Kepez Bld	6.0
3. Ogut, Genc Telekom	5.8
4. Bayrak, Usak	5.1
5. Topcu, Gelisim	4.9
6. Erdogan, Adanaspor	4.8
7. Topcu, Izmir B.B.	4.8
8. Anderson, Basak.	4.8
9. Kavut, Optimum TED	4.7
10. Gucyetmez, Selcuk U.	4.6

Steals Per Game

Marcus HALL
  Kepez Bld
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Hall, Kepez Bld	2.9
2. Anderson, Basak.	2.8
3. Yonder, Genc Banvit	2.3
4. Nelson, Akhisar Bld	2.0
5. Karabulut, Orman G.	1.9
6. Harris, FMV I.	1.8
7. Demircioglu, Istanb.	1.7
8. Clarkson, TED I.	1.7
9. Yikilmaz, Pertevniyal	1.7
10. Delicay, Gaziantep	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Ater MAJOK
  Blaze
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Majok, FMV I.	3.1
2. Johnson, Vestel	2.1
3. Kulcebas, Hacett.	1.8
4. Anderson, Basak.	1.8
5. Clarkson, TED I.	1.6
6. Smith, Usak	1.5
7. Boswell, Basaksehir	1.5
8. Sanli, Darussafaka	1.5
9. Johnson, Istanbul.	1.4
10. Turkyilmaz, Genc B.	1.4

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Ali KARADENIZ
  Trabzonspor
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 22.2

1. Karadeniz, Trabzons.	22.2
2. Kambala, Aliaga	20.3
3. Smith, Karsiyaka	19.9
4. Seibutis, Olin Edirne	18.9
5. Gibson, Oyak R.	18.1
6. Randle, Aliaga	17.5
7. Scales, Mersin	17.4
8. Mays, Oyak Renault	17.1
9. Christopher, Antal.	17.0
10. Barbour, Erdemir	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Nedim YUCEL
  Mersin
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 11

1. Yucel, Mersin	11.0
2. Thomas, Erdemir	10.6
3. Buckman, Antalya	10.0
4. Samardjiski, Olin E.	9.5
5. Mays, Oyak Renault	9.4
6. Wesson, Turk T.	9.3
7. Aldemir, Karsiyaka	8.3
8. Sonkol, Bornova	8.2
9. Smith, Bornova	8.2
10. Smith, Karsiyaka	8.1

Assists Per Game

William CONROY
  Oyak Renault
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 6

1. Conroy, Oyak R.	6.0
2. Holston, Karsiyaka	6.0
3. Ermis, Banvit	5.7
4. Chatman, Besiktas	5.5
5. Rasic, Trabzonspor	5.2
6. Rowe, Tofas	4.8
7. Acik, Galatasaray	4.7
8. Iverson, Besiktas	4.7
9. Randle, Turk T.	4.4
10. Seibutis, Olin Edirne	4.3

Steals Per Game

Aubrey COLEMAN
  Austin T.
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Coleman, Aliaga	3.1
2. Holston, Karsiyaka	2.5
3. Mays, Oyak Renault	2.3
4. Waller, Oyak Renault	2.1
5. Gibson, Oyak R.	2.0
6. Grier, Mersin	2.0
7. Prince, Antalya	1.9
8. Chatman, Besiktas	1.8
9. Rowe, Tofas	1.8
10. Guler, Antalya	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Predrag SAMARDJISKI
  Olin Edirne
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Samardjiski, Olin E.	1.8
2. Stiemsma, Turk T.	1.7
3. Francis, Bornova	1.3
4. Johnson, Erdemir	1.3
5. Aldemir, Karsiyaka	1.2
6. Simpsons, Turk T.	1.1
7. Likholitov, Besiktas	1.0
8. Ruzic, Tofas	1.0
9. Ogilvy, Besiktas	1.0
10. Mays, Oyak Renault	0.9

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

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

JV March Madness Basketball Tournament Set - by David Edole
Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School has announced that the 2nd Annual JV March Madness Basketball Tournament is scheduled for Friday, April1 through Sunday, April 3. Competing teams are Addelita Cancryn, Arthur Richards, Bertha C. Boschulte, Central High School, Educational Complex, Elena Christian, Ivanna Eudora Kean, and John H. Woodson. Admission is $3 for each game. All games are set to start at noon. The boys and girls championship games are scheduled for Sunday April 3.

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

UKRAINE

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 23.3

1. Burtt, Dnipro	23.3
2. Burns, Fe.	17.5
3. Flores, BC Donetsk	17.0
4. Washington, BC Od.	17.0
5. Curry, Azovmash	16.4
6. Williams, Halychyna	14.8
7. Wiggins, Halychyna	14.6
8. Bakic, Kryvbasb.	14.5
9. Millage, Khimik	14.5
10. Fraser, DniproAzot	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Michael FRASER
  DniproAzot
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 10.9

1. Fraser, DniproAzot	10.9
2. Wiggins, Halychyna	9.2
3. Burns, Fe.	8.5
4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv	7.6
5. Austin, Dnipro	7.3
6. Morrison, Halyc.	7.2
7. Hunter, Fe.	6.9
8. Owens, Azovmash	6.7
9. Chappell, Hoverla	6.7
10. Sandul, BC Kyiv	6.3

Assists Per Game

Todd ABERNETHY
  Halychyna
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Abernethy, Halyc.	5.1
2. Vasiljevic, BC Do.	4.9
3. Zimmerman, Hoverla	4.9
4. Burtt, Dnipro	4.8
5. Funn, Halychyna	4.7
6. Millage, Khimik	4.5
7. Brewer, BC Odessa	4.5
8. Sparks, BC Odessa	4.5
9. Slipenchuk, Kryvba.	4.1
10. Curry, Azovmash	4.1

Steals Per Game

Curtis MILLAGE
  Khimik
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Millage, Khimik	2.3
2. House, Azovmash	2.0
3. Sparks, BC Odessa	1.7
4. Sirutavicius, Dnipro.	1.7
5. Love, Mykolaiv	1.5
6. Mazutis, Mykolaiv	1.5
7. Sirsnins, DniproAzot	1.5
8. Greene, Mykolaiv	1.5
9. Burns, Fe.	1.5
10. Swanson, Hoverla	1.4

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Hughes, Mykolaiv	2.3
2. Kravtsov, BC Do.	2.0
3. Hunter, Fe.	1.6
4. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.	1.5
5. Balashov, BC Odessa	1.4
6. Morrison, Halyc.	1.4
7. Pettway, Dnipro	1.3
8. Turner, BC Odessa	1.3
9. Agafonov, Budiv.	1.3
10. Onufriyev, Mykolaiv	1.2

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Budivelnyk		32-10
2. BC Donetsk		31-11
3. Azovmash		26-15
4. Hoverla		26-17
5. Ferro-ZNTU		23-18
6. Mykolaiv		22-19
7. Kryvbasbasket		20-21
8. Dnipro		19-21
9. DniproAzot		18-24
10. BC Odessa		17-26
11. Halychyna		14-29
12. Khimik		13-29
13. BC Kyiv		10-31

Superleague Round 43: Hoverla loses to Azovmash - by Eurobasket News
The game between third ranked Hoverla (26-17) and fourth ranked Azovmash (26-15) was the most important one in the last round on Friday night. Hoverla was defeated by Azovmash in a tough game in Mariupol 77-82. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. American players dominated the game. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Charles Thomas (203-86, college: Arkansas) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Ramel Curry (191-80, college: CSU Bakersfield) contributed with 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Guard Jeremy Chappell (191-87, college: Robert Morris, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) answered with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Hoverla. Hoverla's coach Evgeni Murzin rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Defending champion moved-up to third place. Hoverla at the other side dropped to the fourth position with 17 games lost. Azovmash are looking forward to face Ferro-ZNTU (#5) in Zaporozhye in the next round. Hoverla will play at home against BC Odessa and is hoping to win this game.
An interesting game for BC Donetsk (31-11) which hosted in Donetsk 3rd placed Hoverla (26-17). Second ranked BC Donetsk managed to get a 7-point victory 97-90. It was a great evening for American power forward J.K. Edwards (202-82, college: UNLV) who led his team to a victory scoring 25 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Luis Flores helped adding 24 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). At the losing side American guard Dante Swanson (178-81, college: Tulsa, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) responded with 19 points and 6 assists. Hoverla's coach Evgeni Murzin tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in