Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/30/2011

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Men News

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ABA

ABA to form a new women's professional basketball league (WABA) - by Gianni Pascucci
The American Basketball Association (ABA) announced that it will form a new league called the Women's American Basketball Associaiton (WABA). The target date for the first games is January, 2012.
'There's no doubt about it; the popularity of women's basketball is growing at a phenomenal rate at the youth, high school, college and professional level,' said Joe Newman , ABA CEO. 'The skill levels of today's women players are tremendous and there is little women's professional basketball during the regular basketball season. The timing is right.'
'Our goal is to have the WABA teams play before and after regular ABA men's games and to have at least four teams in a division to ease travel. The initial season will consist of 12-16 games. And to illustrate just how talented today's women players are, all ABA teams will have a 14th eligible player, a WABA player.'
'To get the ball rolling, we will make it easier to own and operate a WABA team than any other professional sports team,' added Newman. 'Minimum investment, minimum risk, huge profit potential.' For more information, contact Joe Newman at 317 844 7502 or email conniejoenewman@aol.com A new website, www.wabalive.com will be available shortly. For now, visit www.abalive.com

All-ABA Championsip Final Four Team announced - by Gianni Pascucci
Just after the end of Game 2 of the ABA Championship Finals, the league officials announced the All-ABA Championship Finals Team, as follows:

Nick Wallery (6'6''-F-81, college: Albany St.) Jacksonville Giants
Daniel Price (6'3''-G-82, college: Pikeville) East Kentucky Energy
Freeman Taylor (6'6''-F-81, college: Robert Morris) Gulf Coast Flash
Luther Suggs (6'5''-F/G-87, college: Missis.Gulf Coast CC) Gulf Coast Flash
Odell Bradley (6'4''-F/G-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: IUPUI) SETX Mavericks
Desmond Cambridge (6'0''-G-79, college: Alabama A&M) SETX Mavericks

P.J. Couisnard (6'4''-G/F-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services, college: Wichita St.) of the SETX Mavericks Champion team was named the Championsip Finals MVP

SETX Mavericks win back to back ABA Championship ! - by Gianni Pascucci
The Southeast Texas Mavericks defeated Gulf Coast Division rival the Gulf Coast Flash, 109-85 at t Nutty Jerrys Entertainment Center on Monday night. It was Game 2 of the ABA Championship Series, that end 2-0 fo rthe Mavericks, who, thanks to this result, won Back to Back ABA National Championships.
Southeast Texas went 4-0 in the ABA Championship Finals by defeating the East Kentucky Energy 122-91 and the previously undefeated Jacksonville Giants 109-87 in the preliminary rounds of the Championship Finals. The Mavs swept the ABA Championship Series 2-0 with a 114-97 victory in Game 1 and a 109-85 win in Game 2.
SETX ended the season with a 26 game winning streak and with a 39 game home court winning streak. The Mavericks were consistent and dominate all season long as they were ranked #1 in the ABA Power ranking for the entire season and for a record 33 straight regular season weeks over the past two seasons.
On Monday night as they have done during the entire 2010-11 season the Mavs got off to a fast start led by P.J. Couisnard (6'4''-G/F-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services, college: Wichita St.), Myles Thrash (6'0''-G-77, college: Stillman), and Jon Rogers (6'9''-F/C-84, college: Valdosta St.). The Mavs took a quick 9-2 lead. SETXs stifling defense limited the Flash to only 2 field goals in the entire first quarter and the Mavs led 32-10 after one period of play.
In the second quarter Gulf Coast forwards Freeman Taylor (6'6''-F-81, college: Robert Morris) and Luther Suggs (6'5''-F/G-87, college: Missis.Gulf Coast CC) got the Flash going, but DeSean White (6'8''-F-86, college: Northwood Fl.) came off the Mavs bench to keep the Mavericks ahead with his timely jump shots. The Mavericks led at half-time 50-35.
In the third period of play the two teams exchanged baskets as Taylor, Suggs, and Decarlos Riley (5'11''-G-87, college: Paris JC) scored big hoops for the Flash. Cousinard, Odell Bradley (6'4''-F/G-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: IUPUI), and super sub Desmond Cambridge (6'0''-G-79, college: Alabama A&M) kept the Flash at bay. The Mavericks took a 17 point lead into the final period of play.
SETX big men took over the painted area in the final period of play to dominate for the Mavericks. The Flash could get no closer than 15 points and the Mavericks cruised to their second ABA Title with a 24 point victory to seize Back to Back Championships!
Couisnard and Bradley each scored 16 points to lead the Mavericks in scoring. Cambridge added 15 points and Thrash 12. White chipped in 11 points off the bench for the Mavs. Taylor led the Flash with 15 points and pulled down 13 rebounds. Cameron Durr (5'10''-G-82) added 14 points for Gulf Coast.

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ANGOLA

Interview with Bayron Burnett - by Randy Williams
Randy Williams: How long have you been playing Basketball and what College did you attend in America?

Bayron Burnett: 10 years Actually.I went to Southern Union State Community College and Florida International University I'm what you call a late bloomer

RW: When you say late bloomer what is it do you mean?
What was your first experience of playing Basketball in the overseas market?

BB: Late Bloomers are players who started playing very late in their career's and as far age wise it means usually they will develop later on rather than when they initially started. Hard work pays off.My first experience overseas was Ecuador in June 2006 and my salary was $1,000

RW: I agree that hard work pays off. What places have you played since your first job in Ecuador in 2006?

BB: China, Romania, France, Mexico, Saudi Arabia,Canada (ABA), Spain, Angola

RW: You are playing in Africa now & how do you describe the play in Angola and the passion that the people of Africa have for Basketball?

BB: Well it's a different experience here, the game is a little bit more aggressive and hard nose, players are rough and the referees let you play through fouls unlike in Europe. The fans are very passionate about their teams in a very patriotic manner and have some similarity like in Europe with drums and fan sections

RW: You have played many places thus far, where is it would you like to play and why?

BB: I would have to say in the context of Overseas it would have to be Spain. I guess it's a balance between sound basketball and you can make a decent living wage. I would take good basketball for less money instead of making more money for bad basketball, I just enjoy playing and competing.

RW: When this season concludes for you what will your plans be?
Where was your best playing experience and why?

BB: My best playing experience was in Spain, in the Canary Islands. It was more of off the court getting through a full season in the Islands. We had a good team we went 21-9 in the season and failed to move up to LEB-Sliver. Despite that it was my best experience so far with teammates, coaches and organization. I will never forget that year.

RW: What are your plans after this season is over as far as Basketball goes?

BB: Well it would be the regular 2 weeks rest on my body and then a training plan with the vision of improving on all the aspects of game for next season.

RW: Is there anything else you would like the Basketball world to know about Byron Burnett?

BB: I would like for people to know the game of basketball has influenced my life significantly and I have meet a lot of people that shape my life and basketball will get me to the end game of life. I am an unselfish player on & off the court and an ultimate team player.

RW: If anyone would like to get in contact with you How can you be reached?

BB: I can be contacted at fiu3322@hotmail.com
Some footage of me playing can be seen on you tube as well.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Byron+Burnett&aq=f

Byron Burnett's Awards & Achievements:

Al Qadsia (Saudi Arabia Division 1):
2008-2009
16pts 9.1rebs 7games

CB Aridane (Spain EBA):
2009-2010 30 games
10.8pts 8.1rebs 1.3asst 61%FG
Regular Season victories 21-9.

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ARGENTINA

Argentinian LigaA round 28 (Second Stage) best performance: Byron Johnson - by Eurobasket News
American power forward Byron Johnson (201-F/C-80, agency: Dream Team Management) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Monte Hermoso, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 28 (Second Stage).
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds, while his team Monte Hermoso moved-up to the 15th position in the Argentinian LigaA. Monte Hermoso is currently ranked second from the bottom. But it was their 18th lost game this season out of 28 games. Johnson turned to be Monte Hermoso's top player in his first season with the team. Former Belmont Abbey College star has very solid stats this year. Johnson is in league's top in points (5th best: 16.6ppg), rebounds (7th best: 8.1rpg) and averages impressive 1.4bpg and 56.2% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 29-year old American Robert Battle (204-C-81, agency: Dream Team Management) of Libertad S.. Battle had a very good evening with a double-double of 11 points and 12 rebounds. Of course Libertad S. cruised to a 87-78 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Lanus (#4, 16-11). Libertad S.'s 6th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 16-12 record is not bad and everything may still change. Battle is a newcomer at Libertad S., but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was guard Agustin Carabajal (179-G-78) of Gimnasia CR (#9). Carabajal scored 10 points. Despite Carabajal's great performance Gimnasia CR lost 61-74 to slightly lower-ranked Quimsa (#10, 13-15). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Gimnasia CR needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 14 victories and 14 lost games. Carabajal has a very solid season. In 40 games in Argentina he scored 6.7ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Christopher Hayes (206-F-87) of Sionista - 26 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Alejandro Zilli (200-F-82) of Sionista - 22 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Javier Martinez (189-G-78) of Regatas C. - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Reque Newsome (204-C-81) of Monte Hermoso - 22 points and 14 rebounds
8. Diego Romero (209-C-82) of Gimnasia CR - 2 points
9. Ruben Wolkowyski (207-C-73) of Libertad S. - 22 points and 7 rebounds
10. Louis Roe (200-F-72) of Regatas C. - 15 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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AUSTRALIA

Nationals Men Hang Tough in Waratah Opener - by Eurobasket News
Compiling a one win and nineteen loss season record is an experience designed to test the true resolve of just about anyone.

Accordingly, 2010s return to the Waratah Championship League for the Canberra Nationals Men in their role as the underpinning group for the better known and feted Gunners was a character building exercise for Head Coach Darryl Durham and the teams widely varying roster.

Roll forward to 2011 and even though the institutional planning has shown it still has a way to go, a new look Nationals team got their Waratah season off to a positive start with a gritty 67-63 road win against the prevailing tide at the NSW Central Coast on Sunday.

The win was looking distinctly unlikely when the Nationals were down as many as nineteen points at various stages but a blistering 12-1 finishing run over the last two and a half minutes courtesy of a pair of Andrew Martin (178-G) triples and the contests last half dozen points from wily veteran Eric Malcolm (201-F) left the home Crusaders stunned.

Durham and assistant Mat Glasson who recently arrived from Western Australia were certainly keen to keep a lid on any premature celebrations with a challenging slate of games against some NBL bolstered Sydney sides ahead in a Waratah League that seems to get stronger every year.

It was certainly great to see the way we were able to take something that perhaps we might not have even contemplated having a shot at last season and there were some huge positives in the grit we showed but theres plenty of work we can do this week to get ready for the upcoming road double Durham said.
Courtesy of: http://www.act.basketball.net.au/

Preliminary Final Preview - by Eurobasket News
Preliminary Final - Wests Magpies vs. Belconnen Ramblers
30th March 2011 7:00pm Belconnen, Court 1
Match Officials: Jackson Dunkley & Ian Gordon

After a convincing loss last week to Tuggeranong, Wests will need to bounce back this week as they meet Belconnen in the Preliminary for the 2010/2011 summer league. Belconnen beat Wests only two weeks ago and theyre sure hoping they can bring the same form to this game. Though Wests did come off an unexpected 15 point loss to Tuggeranong and will be coming with all guns blazing for a rematch with Tuggeranong. As always the key for Wests is who will step up and get the stops on defence? They have a natural offensive game but will need to shut down the scoring machine Ben White who is often assisted by Anthony Arena. Likewise for Belconnen their efforts on the defensive end will have a major impact on the result of this game. Can they stop the second best scoring team in the league and convert on offence? This game regardless will be a show stopper. Both of these teams can shoot all over the floor, both teams have presence inside and both teams can win this game. The question on everyones lips - can Belconnen push their way into the final and break the Wests Vs. Tuggeranong Grand Final tradition?

Head to Head during this season:

Round 4: Wests Magpies (Harris 17, Malcolm 14 & Richardson 14) 88 defeated Belconnen Ramblers (White 15, Papp 14 & Williams 12) 63

Round 11: Belconnen Ramblers (White 17, Arena 14 & Williams 13) 64 defeated Wests Magpies (Harris 19, Richardson 10 & Ashton + Heywood + Malcolm 6) 53
Courtesy of: http://www.act.basketball.net.au

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BALTIC LEAGUE

BELGIUM

D2 Round 26: BBC De Westhoek loses to Zolder - by Eurobasket News
There will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in D2.

The most important game in the last round took place in Zwevezele between third ranked BBC De Westhoek (17-9) and eighth ranked Zolder (11-13) on Saturday night. BBC De Westhoek was defeated by Zolder in a tough game at home 76-82. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of BBC De Westhoek. Zolder moved-up to seventh place. BBC De Westhoek at the other side keeps the third position with nine games lost. They share it with Pitzemburg. Zolder are looking forward to face KBBC Oostkamp (#12) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. BBC De Westhoek will play against Essor Charleroi (#8) and is hoping to win this game.
An interesting game for BBC De Westhoek (17-9) which played road game in Mechelen against one of their biggest challengers Jako Pitzemburg (17-9). Third ranked BBC De Westhoek managed to get a 5-point victory 68-63. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Jako Pitzemburg. BBC De Westhoek have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 17-9 record having four points less than leader Kangar.-Boom, which they share with Pitzemburg. BBC De Westhoek will play against Essor Charleroi (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Jako Pitzemburg will play against Royal Aera Excelsior (#5) in Brussels and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
D2 top team - BBC Kangaroes-Boom (22-3) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they beat fourteenth ranked Gembo BBC (8-18) 80-64. BBC Kangaroes-Boom have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 22-3 record. Newly promoted Gembo BBC stay at the bottom place with 18 games lost. They share the position with Carnieres. BBC Kangaroes-Boom will meet Essor Charleroi (#8) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Gembo BBC will play against BC Carnieres (#13) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game between ninth ranked Belgacom Liege II (10-16) and 10th ranked Dexia Mons Hainaut II (8-16) in Liege ended with biggest points difference. Belgacom Liege II outscored guests from Quaregnon 84-57. Newly promoted Belgacom Liege II maintains ninth position with 10-16 record. Dexia Mons Hainaut II at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the eleventh place with 16 games lost. Belgacom Liege II's next round opponent will be KBBC Oostkamp (#12) on the road. Dexia Mons Hainaut II will play against Zolder in Zolder.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 26: Essor Charleroi was beaten by Pitzemburg on the road 72-62. Carnieres lost to Fleurus on its own court 50-59. Oostkamp unfortunately lost to Excelsior in Brussels 71-82. Sint-Jan Ant. managed to beat Waregem at home 82-73.

Pitzemburg - Essor Charleroi 72-62

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Jako Pitzemburg (17-9) beat 7th ranked Essor Charleroi (11-14) in Mechelen 72-62. Jako Pitzemburg moved-up to third place, which they share with De Westhoek. Essor Charleroi at the other side dropped to the eighth position with 14 games lost. Jako Pitzemburg's next round opponent will be Royal Aera Excelsior (#5) in Brussels. Essor Charleroi will play at home against the league's leader BBC Kangaroes-Boom.

Liege II - M.Hainaut II 84-57

The game between ninth ranked Belgacom Liege II (10-16) and 10th ranked Dexia Mons Hainaut II (8-16) in Liege ended with biggest points difference. Belgacom Liege II outscored guests from Quaregnon 84-57. Newly promoted Belgacom Liege II maintains ninth position with 10-16 record. Dexia Mons Hainaut II at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the eleventh place with 16 games lost. Belgacom Liege II's next round opponent will be KBBC Oostkamp (#12) on the road. Dexia Mons Hainaut II will play against Zolder in Zolder.

Pitzemburg - De Westhoek 63-68

An interesting game for BBC De Westhoek (17-9) which played road game in Mechelen against one of their biggest challengers Jako Pitzemburg (17-9). Third ranked BBC De Westhoek managed to get a 5-point victory 68-63. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Jako Pitzemburg. BBC De Westhoek have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 17-9 record having four points less than leader Kangar.-Boom, which they share with Pitzemburg. BBC De Westhoek will play against Essor Charleroi (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Jako Pitzemburg will play against Royal Aera Excelsior (#5) in Brussels and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Carnieres - Fleurus 50-59

Rather expected game when 13th ranked BC Carnieres (8-18) lost at home to eleventh ranked CEP Fleurus (9-16) 59-50. CEP Fleurus moved-up to tenth place. BC Carnieres at the other side keep the thirteenth position with 18 games lost. CEP Fleurus' next round opponent will be league's second-placed Sint-Jans Antwerpen at home and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. BC Carnieres will play against Gembo BBC (#14) in Borgerhout and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Excelsior - Oostkamp 82-71

Very predictable result when fifth ranked Royal Aera Excelsior (17-10) won against 12th ranked KBBC Oostkamp (8-17) in Brussels 82-71. Royal Aera Excelsior maintains fifth position with 17-10 record. KBBC Oostkamp lost eighth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the twelfth place with 17 games lost. Royal Aera Excelsior's next round opponent will be higher ranked Jako Pitzemburg (#4) in Mechelen and it may be quite challenging game. KBBC Oostkamp will play at home against Zolder (#7) in Zolder.

De Westhoek - Zolder 76-82

The most important game in the last round took place in Zwevezele between third ranked BBC De Westhoek (17-9) and eighth ranked Zolder (11-13) on Saturday night. BBC De Westhoek was defeated by Zolder in a tough game at home 76-82. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of BBC De Westhoek. Zolder moved-up to seventh place. BBC De Westhoek at the other side keeps the third position with nine games lost. They share it with Pitzemburg. Zolder are looking forward to face KBBC Oostkamp (#12) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. BBC De Westhoek will play against Essor Charleroi (#8) and is hoping to win this game.

Kangar.-Boom - Gembo 80-64

D2 top team - BBC Kangaroes-Boom (22-3) had no problems winning another game on Saturday. This time they beat fourteenth ranked Gembo BBC (8-18) 80-64. BBC Kangaroes-Boom have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 22-3 record. Newly promoted Gembo BBC stay at the bottom place with 18 games lost. They share the position with Carnieres. BBC Kangaroes-Boom will meet Essor Charleroi (#8) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Gembo BBC will play against BC Carnieres (#13) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Sint-Jan Ant. - Waregem 82-73

Not a big story in a game when 6th ranked Waregem (13-13) lost on the road to second ranked Sint-Jans Antwerpen (20-7) 82-73. Sint-Jans Antwerpen maintains second position with 20-7 record having just 0 points less than leader Kangar.-Boom. Waregem at the other side keeps the sixth place with 13 games lost. Sint-Jans Antwerpen's next round opponent will be CEP Fleurus (#10) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Waregem will play against the league's leader BBC Kangaroes-Boom (#1).

Standings - Division II

D2 Standings

1. Kangar.-Boom		22-3
2. Sint-Jan Ant.		20-7
3. De Westhoek		17-9
4. Pitzemburg		17-9
5. Excelsior		17-10
6. Waregem		13-13
7. Zolder		11-13
8. Essor Charleroi		11-14
9. Liege II		10-16
10. Fleurus		9-16
11. M.Hainaut II		8-16
12. Oostkamp		8-17
13. Carnieres		8-18
14. Gembo		8-18

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BOSNIA

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Boris LALOVIC
  APOEL
  (206-C-81)
  Avg: 19.9

1. Lalovic, Hercegovac	19.9
2. Albijanic, Sloboda .	17.4
3. Rahimic, Bosna	17.2
4. Opacak, Celik	17.0
5. Opacak, Celik	17.0
6. Kahrimanovic, Kak.	16.9
7. Sakic, Zrinjski HT	16.7
8. Kahrimanovic, Zrinjs.	16.6
9. Zdravkovic, Capljina	16.5
10. Gajovic, Hercegovac	16.3

Rebounds Per Game

Andrija PEJOVIC
  Jedinstvo
  (205-C-83)
  Avg: 8

1. Pejovic, Hercegovac	8.0
2. Sakic, Zrinjski HT	7.6
3. Kuzmic, Celik	7.3
4. Kuzmic, Celik	7.3
5. Hajric, Zrinjski HT	7.2
6. Jagodic Kuri., Borac N.	6.7
7. Albijanic, Sloboda .	6.4
8. Markovic, Varda HE	6.4
9. Vukovic, Slavija	6.2
10. Lalovic, Hercegovac	6.2

Assists Per Game

Vladimir RADOVANOVIC
  Radnik B.
  (194-G-81)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Radovanovic, Herce.	6.1
2. Lalic, Hercegovac	6.0
3. Pasalic, Bosna	4.7
4. Jovanovic, Borac N.	4.4
5. Boljkovac, Slavija	3.6
6. Zdravkovic, Capljina	3.6
7. Markovic, Varda HE	3.5
8. Stanic, Slavija	3.4
9. Jovanovic, SL IAT L.	3.3
10. Kastratovic, Slobod.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Srdjan STANIC
  Slavija
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Stanic, Slavija	3.5
2. Lalic, Hercegovac	2.8
3. Adamovic, Borac N.	2.6
4. Radovanovic, Herce.	2.4
5. Gajovic, Hercegovac	2.3
6. Vranjes, Borac N.	2.1
7. Savovic, Slavija	2.1
8. Bijelica, Capljina	1.8
9. Komatina, Mladost	1.7
10. Lalovic, Hercegovac	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Ognjen KUZMIC
  Celik
  (215-C-90)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Kuzmic, Celik	1.8
2. Kuzmic, Celik	1.8
3. Zimic, Bosna	1.6
4. Jocovic, Borac N.	0.8
5. Durasovic, SL IAT L.	0.7
6. Pelkic, SL IAT L.	0.7
7. Brkic, Capljina	0.7
8. Duranovic, Mladost	0.7
9. Pejovic, Hercegovac	0.7
10. Albijanic, Sloboda .	0.7

Standings - BIH League

D1 Standings

1. Bosna		18-6
2. Borac Nektar		17-7
3. Mladost		16-8
4. Capljina		16-8
5. Zrinjski HT		15-9
6. Sloboda Dita		14-10
7. Hercegovac		13-11
8. SL IAT Leotar		12-12
9. Celik		10-14
10. Varda HE		9-15
11. Brotnjo		7-17
12. Kakanj		7-17
13. Slavija		2-22
Play in international cups:
1. Igokea		-
2. Siroki TT		-

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BOTSWANA

Wheelchair-bound basketballer targets Paralympics - by Thomas Fink
Former basketball player Malebogo 'Max' Molefhe suffered horrific gunshot wounds, which ruled her out of the sport that she is passionate about. Now wheelchair-bound, she has set her sights on representing the country in the Paralympics. Molefhe spoke to Mmegi Staff Writer, VICTOR MUYAKWABO

Mmegi Sport: How did you start playing basketball?

Molefhe: I started playing basketball during my high school days at Naledi Secondary School in 1995, and my positions were forward and power forward. In 1995, I joined the national team.

Mmegi Sport: Why basketball in particular?

Molefhe: Basketball involves a lot of pace and is a tactical game. I liked that and my height was also influential in my decision.

Mmegi Sport: What do you think about the standard of basketball in Botswana?

Molefhe: It is disappointing because basketball is not yet recognised like other sports and there is a need for development of players at a very young age, just the way they are doing in volleyball and football.

Mmegi Sport: Did you achieve what you wanted during your basketball career?

Molefhe: If I had a chance, I would have done better than I did, but will not give up as I wish to play in the Paralympics when I get better. But knowing how basketball is in Botswana, it might not be easy for me, but if it means joining any other sport, I will do that.

Mmegi Sport: How are you coping at the moment?

Molefhe: I would say my life is complex but I am trying to learn how to survive because I am not used to being confined to a wheelchair. But at some point, I will need to be involved in sport and that can only raise my hopes of walking. I do a lot of exercises. One thing that is difficult to regain is my strength as I suffered injuries to my spine.

Mmegi Sport: Did you get any help from sports bodies after your injuries?

Molefhe: The tournament organised this past Saturday is the first and the only assistance that I have received.

Mmegi Sport: Now looking back at the tournament (played last Saturday), the moment you entered the court everyone stood up and clapped their hands for you until you settled by the touchline, how did you feel?

Molefhe: I was so touched and I cannot explain how I feel even up to now, as it was an overwhelming moment. I nearly cried but looking back at the tournament, I would say it was amazing and I like one of the presents I got which is a Zebras' t-shirt signed by all the players. I would like to thank the organisers as it really meant much to me.

Mmegi Sport: At the moment what do you do most when you are home?

Molefhe: I exercise and watch television but most important, I am working on my journal which I wish to publish at some point as a novel that talks about my life.

Mmegi Sport: What can you say to other women after the attempt on your life due to the so-called passion killing?

Molefhe: Young people must be very careful especially when they are in abusive relationships and I urge all women to take cases of abuse seriously.

When they report a case of abuse to the police, they should not withdraw such cases. I would like to appeal to all men that abuse is not a solution; they must ask for help than be violent. I do not wish to see anyone going through what I am currently going through.

Full Names: Malebogo Molefhe
Nickname: Max
Age: 31
Previous club: BDF V
Home village: Manyana

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

BULGARIA

No one can stop Dimitar Mirakovski! - by Interperformances
In the FYROM Cup final four, the 5'11' guard Dimitar Mirakovski (180-G-81, agency: Interperformances) showed once again what hes made of, putting on an amazing performance. In the semi-final game against Feni Indistrija Dimitar netted 37 points, 9-of-10 FGs, 5-of-8 three-pointers and 4-of-5 free throws. In 44 minutes he also added 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Thanks to his talent, Rabotnicki succeeded to the final phase, in which they won over MZT Skopje, clinching the FYROM Cup.
This is the third time this season that Mirakovski scores over 35 points in a single game. Thanks to these numbers, Dimitar is making a name for himself all over Europe.

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

CANADA

Wiltjer carries the torch at McDonald's All American Jam fest - by Eurobasket News
CHICAGO - The Canadian Contingent was in full force at the Powerade 2011 Jam Fest Competition, taking place March 28 at Chicago State University. Myck Kabongo (188-G-93) (Toronto, Ont.) competed in two events, the Skills Competition and the Three-Point Competition. Kyle Wiltjer (206-C) (Portland, OR) entered the Skills Competition, and Khem Birch (Montreal, PQ) rounded out the red and white with the Dunk Contest.

Three- Point Competition:
Eight participants made the cut, including three players from the West Team. Kabongo and Wiltjer were slotted in seventh and eighth. P.J. Hairston started the contest and set the tone with 18 of 25 three-pointers. Wiltjer scored 14, tying for second place with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Quinn Cook (186-G-93). Kabongo finished with nine. Michael Carter- Williams finished in third with 13, enough to get him into the finals. In the second round, Wiltjer did Canada proud as the 610 pulling out the money ball to finish with 17 points claim the title as 2011 Powerade Three-Point Champion. He carried on the Canadian torch started by fellow Junior National Team alumni, Cory Joseph (Pickering, Ont.).

Three-Point Placement:
1. Kyle Wiltjer (17)
2. Quinn Cook (16)
3. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope & P.J. Hairston (9)

The Skills Competition:
6'2' point guard, Myck Kabongo participated in the Skills Competition along with six other players. In the first round, Michael Carter- Williams led the way, finishing up the eight stations with a time of 27.1 seconds. Kabongo completed the circuit with a time of 31.1 seconds and second place, advancing Myck to the next round. Brad Beal rounded out the top three with a time of 32.1 seconds. In the second round, Beal went first and collected a final time of 32.9 seconds. Kabongos speed helped him down the stretch, as he surpassed Beal, tallying a strong time of 31.8 seconds his final run. Carter-Williams managed to hold on to the lead, making the first ball on each station and finishing with a time of 26.2 seconds.

Skills Competition Placement:
1. Michael Carter- Williams (26.2 sec.)
2. Myck Kabongo (31.8 sec.)
3. Brad Beal (32.9 sec.)

Dunk Contest:
Always a highlight the event closed out with the Dunk Contest featuring eight contestants including Montreals own Khem Birch. All eight athletes dunked twice in the first round with the top four dunkers advancing to the semi-finals.

In true Canadian form, Birch, who had received a substantial injury to the eye earlier in practice, still honuored his commitment to the event and played in this final challenge. While he tallied a 50 on his first dunk, he improved with his second attempt, scoring 57 for a total first round score of 107. The four players that advanced included P.J Hairston 137; Austin Rivers (Doc Rivers son) 132; Marshall Plumlee 130; and LeBryan Nash 123.

And the crowd went wild - The highlight from the first round Austin taking off his jersey to reveal Dads classic Atlanta Hawks Jersey!

In the second round, Plumlee took the lead scoring 69 on his dunk not bad for a 611. Torontos own Myck Kabongo come to the court to assist West Team guard, Austin Rivers, but Rivers did not manage to complete his dunks. LeBryan Nash scored a respectable 63 from the seven judges, good enough for second place. Hairston finished in third with 61 points.

The final round was showdown, with Plumlee scoring 122 on two high-flying dunks. But cowboy Nash (who sported a giant cowboy hat at a for a dunk prop) managed to pull out a 2 point lead, scoring 124 for the win.

Dunk Contest Placement:
1. LeBryan Nash (124 pts.)
2. Marshall Plumlee (122 pts.)
3. P.J. HairstonCourtesy of: By Tanya Phillipps, basketball.ca

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

CBL

Continental Basketball League welcomes the Heartland Prowl - by Eurobasket News
The Continental Basketball League is pleased to announce the addition of the Heartland Prowl to its roster of teams for the 2011 season. Director of Basketball Operations Gary Perry made the announcement on Monday.

The Prowl, a former member of the American Basketball Association, are owned by Levi Williams, the owner of Paramount Sports Group, LLC which is based in Sebring, FL.

Williams says of his acceptance into the CBL, 'I am very happy to have the opportunity to play in an up and coming league like the CBL. I think this is a great opportunity for myself and the team to be able to bring basketball to Sebring during the spring and early summer months.'

Director of Basketball Operations Gary Perry says of Williams and the Prowl organization, 'Levi has a great basketball mind and has tremendous ideas and marketing skills. We cannot be happier with the addition of the Prowl to our family of teams.'

Williams will be the coach of the team who are tentatively set to play their home games at Sebring High School with their schedule set to be announced in the coming days.

The Continental Basketball League is based in Ft. Lauderdale, FL with teams in Wilmington, NC; Savannah, GA; Birmingham, AL; Orlando, FL; Palm Beach, FL and Miami, FL. For more information on the CBL, go to www.cblhoopsonline.com.

Courtesy of CBL

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

CHILE

Standings - LIBSUR

LIBSUR Standings

North Group
1. AB Temuco		0-0
2. CD Carahue		0-0
3. CD Imperial		0-0
4. CD Las Animas		0-0
5. CD Valdiva		0-0
6. Lautaro		0-0
7. Victoria		0-0
South Group
1. AB Ancud		0-0
2. Aleman		0-0
3. CB Osorno		0-0
4. CD Castro		0-0
5. CD Puerto Montt		0-0
6. CD Puerto Varas		0-0
7. Espanol O.		0-0
8. U.Los Lagos		0-0

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

CROATIA

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Hrvoje PULJKO
  Kvarner 2010
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 22.1

1. Puljko, Kvarner .	22.1
2. Zitko, Trogir	19.3
3. Petkovic, Svjetlost	19.0
4. Mimica, KK Split	17.7
5. Krapic, Zabok	17.6
6. Saric, Dubrava	17.2
7. Krolo, Darda	16.6
8. Ridl, Darda	16.2
9. Sobin, KK Split	16.1
10. Bakovic, Darda	15.7

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Krapic, Zabok	9.4
2. Saric, Dubrava	9.3
3. Krolo, Darda	8.9
4. Sobin, KK Split	8.0
5. Radic, Alkar Sinj	7.9
6. Ridl, Darda	6.8
7. Ragsdale, Kvarner .	6.3
8. Vukicevic, Svjetlost	5.8
9. Ruzic, Borik	5.7
10. Zupic, Alkar Sinj	5.7

Assists Per Game

Milan KARAKAS
  Trogir
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Karakas, Trogir	5.7
2. Petkovic, Svjetlost	5.3
3. Blajic, Trogir	4.3
4. Blajic, Alkar Sinj	4.1
5. Tomeljak, Zabok	3.9
6. Delas, Alkar Sinj	3.6
7. Jugo, Kvarner 2010	3.4
8. Subotic, KK Split	3.1
9. Dosen, Dubrovnik	3.1
10. Saric, Dubrava	3.1

Steals Per Game

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

1. Petani, Borik	2.2
2. Saric, Dubrava	2.1
3. Anzulovic, Alkar Sinj	2.0
4. Kamaldin, Darda	1.9
5. Bicvic, Darda	1.8
6. Tomeljak, Zabok	1.8
7. Blajic, Trogir	1.8
8. Swift, Darda	1.8
9. Puljko, Kvarner .	1.8
10. Maric, Svjetlost	1.7

Blocks Per Game

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

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

A1 Standings

A1 Standings

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

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

CYPRUS

The 2 year-champions will not have the chance to defend their title - Etha advances to the final - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

The two year champions will not have the chance to defend their title as the dudiciary committee gives the victory of the 3rd game of the semi-final to Etha.

Etha advances for the 1st time of the club's history at the league's final.

We need to say that Etha was a great contender all year long and fought Apoel equally at the semi-final. For this we need to congratulate the current cup-winners.

Apoel

We believe that the 2-year champions deserve a fair mention.

Apoel will not have the chance to defend its title but a deeper look in this year's league notes that the season was not so bad for Apoel.

Lets take things from the beginning.

Originally, everybody believed Apoel would not make it through this year because of its financial problems.

In the opening game of the season Apoel appeared and won the super cup. This was considered a great achievement at the time because it had only 8 players in its roster and only 3 weeks of practice and won it against a very good opponent as it is Keravnos. Everybody remembers Charron Fisher giving an excellent game finishing with 41 pts.

Out of a sudden the season started look promising for Apoel. When it seemed that Apoel had found a great scorer, Fisher was injured and the news said he was going to lose the rest of the season. Apoel appeared to battle against Enad with practically 7 players and against Achilleas in Kaimakli with 8, and won, something not easy to succeed.

Fisher was replaced by the promising Kevin Tiggs and then Buljan Zvonko was also added in the team. Suddenly everybody started referring to Apoel as the favorite for the title.
After that Apoel spend the rest of the season in courts trying to get permission for Arthur Lee to play. Lee was forbidden to play just before game 6 of the 1st round. The team deprived his services for a whole round (9 games).

In all that, Apoel managed to finish 1st in the regular season securing a home court advantage at the playoffs.

And while it was preparing for the semi-final, the center of the team, Vitas Augustinas, was injured and replaced by Lalovic Boris just before Apoel's 1st game at the semi-final.

Considering all the above circumstances and the budget constraints the season was not so bad for Apoel.

Eurobasket.com needs to congratulate team's technical team, head coach Giannis Christopoulos and assistants Nicos Lambrias and Michalis Matsendides who despite all the difficulties have methodically set up a competitive team that gave its best all year long. And all this within a tight budget.

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

DENMARK

Bears advance to Playoff Finals, Rabbits take 2-1 lead against Horsens IC - by Eurobasket News
Bakken Bears advanced to Playoff Finals. They eliminated Naestved with perfect 3-0 in the Semis and now will wait for the winner of Svendborg - Horsens IC series (2-1).

Game 3: Bakken - Naestved 84-64 (3-0)

It looked good early as Naestved took an 11-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Bakken took control and eventually won the game that evening by 20 points. They made 22-of-27 charity shots (81.5 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American forward Jahmar Thorpe (198-84, college: Houston, agency: KMG Sports Management) who led his team to a victory with 26 points and 7 rebounds (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-84, college: Texas Tech) contributed with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Four Bakken players scored in double figures. American power forward Lee Roberts (201-87, college: Findlay, OH) answered with 19 points and 8 rebounds and the other American import guard D.J. Smedley (180-84, college: Ill.-Chicago) added 8 points, 6 rebounds and 12 assists in the effort for Naestved. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Bakken: J.Thorpe 26+7reb+2ast, C.Burgess 15+7reb+5ast, A.Jakobsen 11+3reb+3ast, C.Nielsen 10+2reb+2ast, H.Petkov 8+4reb, J.Jensen 7+2reb
Naestved: L.Roberts 19+8reb, M.Kasiulevicius 15+7reb, P.Johansen 15+7reb+1ast, D.Smedley 8+6reb+12ast, N.Andreasen 3, R.Norgaard 2+1reb

Game 3: Svendborg - Horsens IC 91-65 (2-1)

The game without a history. Svendborg 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 Horsens IC's 36. They outrebounded Horsens IC 39-28 including a 32-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was the former international guard Adama Darboe (190-86, agency: Rasmussen Services) who scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. American forward Matt Williams (200-77, college: Montana) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Mike St.John (203-84, college: La Salle) who recorded 16 points and 6 rebounds and international forward Morten Sahlertz (198-89) added 14 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Four Svendborg and five Horsens IC players 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.
Top scorers:
Svendborg: M.Williams 18+6reb+3ast, A.Darboe 17+7reb+8ast, N.Iversen 15+8reb+1ast, C.Cavanaugh 10+3reb+2ast, M.Mariegaard 9+2reb+1ast, C.Magaard 9+6reb
Horsens IC: M.St.John 16+6reb, M.Sahlertz 14+7reb, H.Schur 11+8reb+1ast, A.Voskuil 10+3reb, R.Claitt 10+2reb+7ast, C.Lindberg 2+2reb

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Thomas SOLTAU
  SISU
  (210-F-82)
  Avg: 22.8

1. Soltau, SISU	22.8
2. Morris, Aabyhoj	22.6
3. Hall, Aalborg	21.7
4. Brasas, Amager BK	21.1
5. Colas, Vaerlose	19.8
6. Voskuil, Horsens IC	19.2
7. Dennis, SISU	18.8
8. Iversen, Svendborg	18.7
9. Roberts, Naestved	18.4
10. Falkner, Aalborg	16.9

Rebounds Per Game

Lee ROBERTS
  Naestved
  (201-F/C-87)
  Avg: 13.2

1. Roberts, Naestved	13.2
2. Colas, Vaerlose	10.5
3. Morris, Aabyhoj	9.9
4. Falkner, Aalborg	9.6
5. St.John, Horsens IC	9.4
6. Johansen, Naestved	9.3
7. Soltau, SISU	8.8
8. Williams, Svendborg	7.6
9. Rutherford, SISU	7.1
10. Iversen, Svendborg	7.1

Assists Per Game

D.J. SMEDLEY
  Naestved
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Smedley, Naestved	6.6
2. Claitt, Horsens IC	5.5
3. Hall, Aalborg	5.2
4. Dennis, SISU	4.6
5. Burgess, Bakken	4.2
6. Martin, Aabyhoj	4.1
7. Nielsen, Horsholm	4.1
8. Darboe, Svendborg	3.9
9. Jensen, Vaerlose	3.7
10. Nielsen, SISU	3.4

Steals Per Game

Marquis HALL
  Aalborg
  (183-G-87)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Hall, Aalborg	3.8
2. Kristiansen, Aalborg	2.1
3. Dennis, SISU	1.9
4. Burgess, Bakken	1.9
5. Colman, Svendborg	1.8
6. Nielsen, Horsholm	1.8
7. Jakobsen, Bakken	1.8
8. Jukic, Aabyhoj	1.8
9. Smedley, Naestved	1.7
10. Nielsen, SISU	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Edward MORRIS
  Aabyhoj
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Morris, Aabyhoj	2.1
2. Blackmon, Horsholm	1.7
3. Christoffers., Bak.	1.5
4. Colas, Vaerlose	1.4
5. Roberts, Naestved	1.2
6. Brown, SISU	0.8
7. St.John, Horsens IC	0.8
8. McGinn, Aalborg	0.7
9. Johansen, Naestved	0.7
10. Hakanowitz, Horsh.	0.6

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

D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

Central Division
1. Iowa E.		35-13
2. Erie Bay H.		30-18
3. Ft.Wayne MA		23-25
4. Dakota W.		18-29
5. Sioux Falls S.		10-37
Southwest Division
1. Rio Grande		31-17
2. Tulsa 66ers		31-17
3. Texas L.		22-25
4. Austin T.		21-27
5. New Mexico		20-28
6. Maine RC		17-31
West Division
1. Reno Bighorns		32-16
2. Bakersfield J.		28-19
3. Utah F.		28-19
4. Idaho S.		22-26
5. Springfield A.		13-34

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 25.6

1. Johnson, Bakersfi.	25.6
2. Johnson, Erie B.	22.5
3. Jeffers, Iowa E.	21.1
4. Sims, Maine RC	19.9
5. Ewing, Sioux F.	19.9
6. McNeal, Rio Grande	19.5
7. Stinson, Iowa E.	19.5
8. Alexander, Texas L.	19.4
9. Dentmon, Texas L.	19.2
10. Goods, Dakota W.	18.4

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. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	9.4
6. Williams, Texas L.	9.3
7. Johnson, Dakota W.	9.2
8. Jeffers, Iowa E.	9.1
9. Alexander, Texas L.	8.9
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. Jackson, Idaho S.	7.4
6. Crittenton, Dakota W.	7.2
7. Jackson, Erie B.	6.6
8. Johnson, Austin T.	5.9
9. Reynolds, Spring.	5.8
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. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers	2.5
3. Miles, Reno Bighorns	2.5
4. Lin, Reno Bighorns	2.1
5. Lofton, Iowa E.	2.1
6. Greene, Utah F.	2.0
7. Lafayette, Ft.Wayne.	2.0
8. Jackson, Idaho S.	2.0
9. Reynolds, Spring.	1.9
10. Shakur, Rio Grande	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Chris JOHNSON
  Portland TB
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Johnson, Dakota W.	2.8
2. Williams, Texas L.	2.8
3. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers	2.4
4. Gaffney, Utah F.	2.4
5. Whiteside, Reno B.	2.2
6. Naymick, Bakersfi.	2.2
7. Goodridge, Maine R.	2.2
8. Gladness, Dakota W.	2.0
9. O''Bryant, Reno B.	1.9
10. Fall, Maine RC	1.9

Trail Blazers recall Luke Babbitt from Idaho Stampede - by Eurobasket News
The Stampede's quest to reach the NBA Development League playoffs will go on without the 6-foot-9 forward Luke Babbitt (6'9''-F-89, college: Nevada), who is heading back to the NBA.

Luke Babbitt played 14 games with Idaho this season, averaging 20.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

The Nevada product scored 34 points Sunday in a loss at Austin - his final game with Idaho.

The Stampede close the regular season this weekend with home games against the Utah Flash. Idaho needs wins in those games and some help in order to qualify for the D-League playoffs.

Courtesy of www.idahostatesman.com

San Antonio Spurs Assign DaSean Butler to Austin Toros of NBA D-League - by Surujh Roopnarine
Rookie swingman Da'Sean Butler (6'7''-G/F-88, college: W.Virginia) of the San Antonio Spurs has been assigned to their NBA D-League affiliate Austin Toros. Butler signed with the Spurs on March 25th and was placed on the inactive list to continue rehab on a torn left ACL suffered in the 2010 NCAA Final Four against Duke on April 3, and was recently cleared to resume game action.
The third all-time leading scorer in West Virginia Mountaineers history (2,095 points behind only Jerry West and Hot Rod Hundley), Butler was selected by the Miami Heat in the second round (42 overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft. Over his four year career at WVU, the Newark, New Jersey native averaged 14.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 146 games. Butler is the 35th NBA player to be assigned to the NBA D-League this season, extending an all-time high.

Spurs assign Da'Sean Butler to D-League - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio Spurs forward Da'Sean Butler (6'7''-G/F-88, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: W.Virginia) was assigned to the Austin Toros, San Antonios NBA Development League affiliate, it was announced today. The assignment marks the 50th time in the 2010-11 season an NBA player has been assigned to an NBA D-League affiliate, and it is the first assignment for Butler, a rookie out of West Virginia.

Butler (6-7, 230) signed with San Antonio on March 25. He was placed on the inactive list to continue rehab on a torn left ACL he suffered in the 2010 NCAA Final Four against Duke on April 3, and was recently cleared to resume game action. He was selected by the Miami Heat in the second round (42nd overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft, but was released before the start of the season.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

Monday: Dakota falls to Utah - by Eurobasket News
Dakota W. - Utah F. 115-124
Brandon Costner (6'9''-F-87, college: N.Carolina St.) scored a season high 33 points and grabbed 18 rebounds to lead the Utah Flash (28-19) to a 124-115 victory over the Dakota Wizards (18-29) Monday night at the Bismarck Civic Center. Utah trailed 88-86 at the end of the third quarter and started the fourth with a 13-2 run and led by 11 early in the fourth. Costner scored 13 of his game high 33 in the quarter to pace the Flash in the fourth. After technical fouls were assessed to Wizards guard Javaris Crittenton (6'5''-G-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) and head coach Rory White, the Flash took their biggest lead of the game at 111-94 and held on down the stretch for the 124-115 victory. Dakota led 26-24 at the end of the first quarter but Utah responded in a big way in the second outscoring the Wizards 37-24 in the quarter to lead by nine at the break. Javaris Crittenton led Dakota back in the third scoring 15 points in the quarter and was a perfect 7-of-7 from the free throw to give Dakota an 88-86 lead at the end of three. Tony Gaffney recorded his second straight double-double in as many nights scoring 18 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. The Flash also got double digit scoring from Andre Ingram (6'3''-G-85, college: American) with 24 points, Ronald DuPree (6'7''-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: LSU) 12 and Kevin Krueger 11. Ryan Thompson added 12 points off the bench on 6-of-7 shooting and Brian Hamilton chipped in10 points off the bench as well. The Wizards were led by Mike Anderson with 26 points and Anthony Goods with 24. The Wizards travel to Tulsa this for back-to-back games this Friday and Saturday and return home for a rescheduled game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce next Monday night at 5:00p.m. CT at the Bismarck Civic Center. *Courtesy of NBA D-League

New Mexico's Jamine Peterson named NBA D-League Performer of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Jamine Peterson (6'6''-F-88, agency: N.E.T., college: Providence) of the New Mexico Thunderbirds was today named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played during the week of March 21.
Peterson, a 6-6, 225-pound rookie forward out of Providence, led the Thunderbirds to a 3-1 record on the week, averaging 24.9 points and 8.8 rebounds.

Peterson put together a pair of outstanding performances in back-to-back road games this weekend. He had 40 points and 13 rebounds in a 121-101 win at Springfield on Saturday, and followed that with 36 points and 12 rebounds in a 129-97 loss at Fort Wayne on Sunday. Peterson also began the week with 19 points and eight rebounds in a 104-100 win over Bakersfield on Tuesday.

This week's honorable mention selections were Bakersfield's Trey Johnson (6'5''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Jackson St.), who averaged 23.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.0 assists in four games; Dakota's Renaldo Major (6'7''-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Fresno St.), who had 26 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in one game; Erie's Ivan Johnson (6'8''-F/C-84, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.), who averaged 33.0 points, 8.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists in three games; Fort Wayne's Darnell Lazare, who averaged 20.3 points and 6.3 rebounds in three games; Idaho's Antoine Walker, who averaged 19.3 points and 11.8 rebounds in four games; Iowa's Curtis Stinson, who averaged 33.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 11.0 assists in three games; Maine's DeShawn Sims, who averaged 24.5 points, 8.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists in four games; Reno's Marcus Landry, who averaged 19.0 points and 6.0 rebounds in two games; Rio Grande Valley's Jerel McNeal, who averaged 20.3 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists in four games; Sioux Falls' Patrick Ewing Jr., who had 27 points, 15 rebounds and six assists in one game before earning a GATORADE Call-Up to the New Orleans Hornets; Springfield's Lance Hurdle, who averaged 21.5 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists in two games; and Utah's Ronald Dupree, who averaged 21.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists in three games.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

SRT Round 9: CDP beats CPN - by Eurobasket News
CDP - CPN 85-75

An exciting game was when first ranked CDP faced 3rd placed CPN. CDP (8-3) defeated CPN (6-5) 85-75. CDP maintains first place with 8-3 record. CPN at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. CDP will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. CPN's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Santiago Sameji.
Cupes - Sameji 93-84

Bottom-ranked Cupes managed to get a third victory, breaking the series of seven consecutive loses. This time they won against fifth-ranked Sameji in Santiago 93-84. Cupes (3-8) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with defeated Sameji. Cupes will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Sameji's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Santiago to the arena CPN.

Dominicans abroad: Alejandro Flores was the best for Toros de Aragua - by Jordan Olivo
The Dominican Alejandro Flores (202-F-81, college: E.Oklahoma St. JC) was the best scorer of the Toros de Aragua in the 69-63 defeat to Marine Anzoategui.
Flores finished with 16 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, one blocked shot,one steal and one turnover in 33 minutes he was on the court.
'El Caballito' pulled field 13-5 (38%) and 7-6 free throws (86%).
The Spanish Alvaro Calvo (203-G/F-83) finished with 12 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and one steald in 26 minutes he was on the court.

Standings - LIDOBA

SRT Standings

1. CDP		8-3
2. Plaza		7-3
3. CPN		6-5
4. GUG		5-5
5. Cupes		3-8
6. Sameji		3-8

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ESTONIA

Standings - KML

EMKL Standings

1. Kalev/Cramo		29-3
2. TU/Rock		28-4
3. TTU/Kalev		25-7
4. Rakvere		16-16
5. Valga/CKE		14-18
6. Rapla		13-19
7. TTU/Kalev II		10-22
8. Parnu		8-24
9. Voru KK		1-31

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Curtis ALLEN
  Voru KK
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 19.1

1. Allen, Voru KK	19.1
2. Thornton, Voru KK	18.7
3. Saage, Rakvere	18.1
4. Erm, Rapla	17.4
5. Raap, Parnu	16.6
6. Brown, Va.	16.3
7. Vaikulis, Rakvere	16.2
8. Raadik, Parnu	16.2
9. Arnold, TT.	15.7
10. Osby, TT.	15.0

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.	11.0
4. Allen, Voru KK	10.5
5. Ringmets, Rapla	9.8
6. Osby, TT.	9.5
7. Kuuba, Voru KK	8.9
8. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	8.4
9. Pokla, Rakvere	7.4
10. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.	7.2

Assists Per Game

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

1. Kriisa, TT.	3.7
2. Vaikulis, Rakvere	3.5
3. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo	3.4
4. Sokk, TU/Rock	3.3
5. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock	3.0
6. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo	2.8
7. Allen, Voru KK	2.8
8. Oja, Va.	2.7
9. Pokla, Rakvere	2.7
10. Dorbek, Rakvere	2.6

Steals Per Game

Armands SKELE
  Kalev/Cramo
  (192-G-83)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Skele, Kalev/Cramo	2.4
2. Laane, Rapla	2.4
3. Saage, Rakvere	2.2
4. Leppik, TU/Rock	2.2
5. Allen, Voru KK	2.2
6. Raap, Parnu	2.2
7. Karner, Parnu	2.1
8. Dorbek, Rakvere	1.9
9. Veideman, TU/Rock	1.8
10. Doronin, TU/Rock	1.8

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.	1.3
4. Raadik, Parnu	1.2
5. Allen, Voru KK	1.0
6. Toome, Kalev/Cramo	0.9
7. Arnold, TT.	0.9
8. Brown, Va.	0.8
9. Ringmets, Rapla	0.7
10. Saarmets, TTU/K.	0.7

All-Star Weekend - by Matthew Hall
Firstly, I want to extend my love and support to my brother Mickey, his wife Erin, and their healthy new baby boy, Luke Michael Hall. I am very excited to meet my new nephew when I get home in May. This past weekend my Uncle Joe and cousin Derek came all the way from New York City and Boston to visit, we had a tremendous time together. I took them to a couple nice spots in the Old Town of Tallinn, and on Saturday night we went to eat at the Gun Powder Cellar in Tartu, Pssirohukelder. I was impressed with the high ceiling, but not so much with the live band, but there is certainly something unique and special about eating in such a historic place. On Sunday night they ate their last meal in Estonia at Olde Hansa, another very historic place with a medieval theme that literally makes you feel like you are dining in the 14th century. The menu had things listed like 'bear meat' 'divine leg of duck' and 'beef with quail eggs' and the plates an silverware was all wooden. They left early on Monday morning, and the last thing I told them was that they will forever be legendary in my mind for traveling such a long way to visit.

Saturday was a cool day, despite the fact that I showed up during halftime of the All-Star game I think everything went pretty smoothly. I have to show much respect to my coach, Andreas Sober , for immediately subbing me into the game once I arrived. It was nice to play again with Rain Veideman (192-G-91), former Tarvas player who now plays with Tartu Rock, he is certainly one of the most promising an talented young players in the Estonian League. The dunk contest did not pan out the way I had envisioned, my first dunk was sloppy, and my second dunk was sloppier, but hey sometimes you just don't have your legs right? And someone please tell me how the kid that won was even allowed to participate? He plays in the Latvian League, when I saw him warming up I knew instantly that nobody stood a chance. His first dunk was a between the legs reverse, a dunk that Jason Richardson did in the NBA dunk contest to win a few years back. The kid literally showed up, got loose, won the dunk contest, collected 500 euros and then disappeared, pretty gangster as my cousin Derek said. You can check out our contest on youtube, or at http://www.ohtuleht.ee/420264. The All-Star game was fun too, I think Bambale Osby (203-F-86, college: Maryland) from TTU Kalev took home the MVP award, he was dishing out assists like a point guard, and I liked how after each dime he ran passed the scores table showing them how many he had.

We just finished our last regular season game, and our final record puts us right at .500 (16-16). Once again, there were a lot of ups and downs this season, but the nice thing is that every team is 0-0 once the playoffs start. We have our first game of the quarterfinals on Friday, and preparation for the series will begin early tomorrow morning. My father will be coming for a short period of time on the 8th of April, I am very excited about that, I think he will be surprised by what a nice country this is.

In other news, my former high school an Tarvas teammate, Renato Lindmets (198-F-84, agency: Tank Sports, college: Westfield St.), is making a lot of noise right now in Iceland. His team, Stjarnan, just won their first game of the semi-finals of the post-season. He tells me he has improved his strength since he left Estonia a few months back, and that he is looking forward to coming back here to have a shot to play with the National Team in the near future. Looking forward to the start of our playoffs as well. Until next time, ciaoo.

EMKL Round 32 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in EMKL just ended.

Round 32 most important game was a victory of Kalev/Cramo over second-ranked TU/Rock 71-59 on Tuesday night. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Kalev/Cramo. TU/Rock managed to win fourth quarter 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kalev/Cramo forced 20 TU/Rock turnovers. Strangely TU/Rock outrebounded Kalev/Cramo 41-27 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. International guard Tanel Sokk (184-85) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points. International swingman Gregor Arbet (194-83) contributed with 19 points for the winners. Naturalized Greek guard Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-89) replied with 26 points for TU/Rock. Kalev/Cramo (29-3) have an impressive 12-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Defending champion TU/Rock keeps the second place with four games lost.
Eighth-ranked KK Parnu (8-24) used its home court advantage to challenge fifth ranked Valga/CKE (14-18). The visitors from Valga managed to secure only one-point victory 77-76. However their fans expected easier game. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international swingman Veljo Vares (200-81) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and Anthony Brown who added 9 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Guard Martin Paasoja (189-93) responded with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. Valga/CKE maintains fifth position with 14-18 record. KK Parnu lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 24 games lost.
The game between third ranked TTU/Kalev (25-7) and 6th ranked Rapla (13-19) in Tallinn on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. TTU/Kalev beat guests from Rapla 100-82. The winners were led by Bambale Osby who had that evening a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Even 23 points by Heigo Erm did not help to save the game for Rapla. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. TTU/Kalev have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 25-7 record having four points less than leader Kalev/Cramo. Newly promoted Rapla keeps the sixth place with 19 games lost.

In the last game of round 32 bottom-ranked Voru KK was beaten by Rakvere on the road 90-85.

Rakvere - Voru KK 90-85

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked BC Rakvere (16-16) beat at home bottom-ranked Voru KK (1-31) 90-85 on Tuesday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The winners were led by American guard Matthew Hall (191-86, college: Stonehill) who scored that evening 19 points and the other American import swingman Brett McGee (198-84, college: Mt.Mercy) supported him with 9 points and 10 rebounds. Hall is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. BC Rakvere's coach Andreas Sober used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. Even a double-double of 22 points and 11 rebounds by American guard Curtis Allen (193-85, college: ORU) did not help to save the game for Voru KK. Guard Tanel Kimask (180-85) added 23 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Four Voru KK players scored in double figures. BC Rakvere maintains fourth position with 16-16 record. Voru KK lost eighteenth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 31 lost games.
Top scorers:
Rakvere: M.Hall 19+4reb+3ast, R.Vaikulis 12+1reb+2ast, C.Kens 11+3reb+1ast, I.Timermanis 10+7reb, B.McGee 9+10reb+2ast, J.Vahter 9+7reb+2ast
Voru KK: T.Kimask 23+5reb+2ast, C.Allen 22+11reb+3ast, S.Kuuba 12+7reb+1ast, J.Oigus 10+5reb+1ast, T.Zupsman 7+4reb, M.Niklus 7+4reb+3ast

Parnu - Valga/CKE 76-77

Eighth-ranked KK Parnu (8-24) used its home court advantage to challenge fifth ranked Valga/CKE (14-18). The visitors from Valga managed to secure only one-point victory 77-76. However their fans expected easier game. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But KK Parnu won third quarter 21-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded KK Parnu 43-23 including a 35-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international swingman Veljo Vares (200-81) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and American forward Anthony Brown (203-86, college: Oklahoma St.) who added 9 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Guard Martin Paasoja (189-93) responded with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals and forward Toomas Raadik (198-90) scored 14 points and 7 rebounds. Four KK Parnu players scored in double figures. Valga/CKE maintains fifth position with 14-18 record. KK Parnu lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 24 games lost.
Top scorers:
Valga/CKE: V.Vares 16+5reb+5ast, A.Vasar 14+3reb+2ast, A.Tagamets 13+4reb+1ast, A.Brown 9+9reb+3ast, T.Oja 8+7reb+1ast, K.Pullisaar 7+1reb
Parnu: M.Paasoja 19+6reb+4ast, T.Hamarsalu 15+3reb+1ast, T.Raadik 14+7reb, R.Karner 11+1reb+5ast, S.Joosep 9+5reb+2ast, E.Tamsalu 8

TTU/Kalev - Rapla 100-82

The game between third ranked TTU/Kalev (25-7) and 6th ranked Rapla (13-19) in Tallinn on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. TTU/Kalev beat guests from Rapla 100-82. The game without a history. TTU/Kalev led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 27-of-35 free shots (77.1 percent) during the game. TTU/Kalev forced 20 Rapla turnovers and outrebounded them 46-27 including 18 on the offensive glass. The winners were led by American-DR Congolese forward Bambale Osby (203-86, college: Maryland) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) and forward Illimar Pilk (195-88) supported him with 18 points and 6 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Osby is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Even 23 points by swingman Heigo Erm (190-80) did not help to save the game for Rapla. Power forward Raido Ringmets (204-83) added 12 points and 9 rebounds for the guests. Four Rapla players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. TTU/Kalev have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 25-7 record having four points less than leader Kalev/Cramo. Newly promoted Rapla keeps the sixth place with 19 games lost.
Top scorers:
TTU/Kalev: B.Osby 21+12reb, I.Pilk 18+6reb+2ast, A.Parn 11+5reb, K.Makke 8+5reb, C.Archibald 8+4reb+1ast, E.Keedus 8+6reb+5ast
Rapla: H.Erm 23+2reb+2ast, R.Raap 12+3reb+1ast, R.Ringmets 12+9reb+2ast, I.Kajupank 11+4reb+1ast, A.Antson 6+1reb, R.Laane 5+1reb

TU/Rock - Kalev/Cramo 59-71

Round 32 most important game was a victory of Kalev/Cramo over second-ranked TU/Rock 71-59 on Tuesday night. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Kalev/Cramo. TU/Rock managed to win fourth quarter 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kalev/Cramo forced 20 TU/Rock turnovers. Strangely TU/Rock outrebounded Kalev/Cramo 41-27 including a 26-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. International guard Tanel Sokk (184-85) orchestrated the victory by scoring 20 points. International swingman Gregor Arbet (194-83) contributed with 19 points for the winners. Four Kalev/Cramo players scored in double figures. Naturalized Greek guard Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-89) replied with 26 points and American power forward Callistus Eziukwu (208-85, college: Grand Valley St.) added 10 points and 13 rebounds in the effort for TU/Rock. Kalev/Cramo (29-3) have an impressive 12-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Defending champion TU/Rock keeps the second place with four games lost.
Top scorers:
Kalev/Cramo: T.Sokk 20+1reb+3ast, G.Arbet 19+1reb, R.Keerles 12+5reb+2ast, A.Skele 10+6reb+3ast, M.Dunigan 6+9reb+1ast, J.Toome 2+5reb
TU/Rock: S.Sokk 26+4reb+1ast, C.Eziukwu 10+13reb+3ast, S.Leppik 9+5reb+3ast, R.Veideman 8+6reb, V.Allingu 6+6reb, R.Raadik 0

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

EUROLEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Bojan BOGDANOVIC
  Cibona
  (202-G/F-89)
  Avg: 18

1. Bogdanovic, Cibona	18.0
2. Langford, Khimky	17.8
3. Rakocevic, Efes P.	17.2
4. Teletovic, Caja L.	15.4
5. Mejia, Cholet	15.1
6. Spanoulis, Olympiakos	14.6
7. Navarro, Regal B.	14.6
8. San Emeterio, Caja L.	14.0
9. Gregory, Union O.	14.0
10. Freeland, Unicaja	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Mirsad TURKCAN
  Fener.Ulker
  (206-F-76)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Turkcan, Fener.Ul.	7.3
2. Jankunas, Zalgiris	6.9
3. Gist, Partizan	6.9
4. Bourousis, Olympiakos	6.6
5. Fischer, Real Madrid	6.4
6. Batista, Caja L.	6.3
7. Pleiss, Brose B.	6.3
8. Radosevic, Cibona	6.3
9. Freeland, Unicaja	6.3
10. Gregory, Union O.	6.1

Assists Per Game

Dimitris DIAMANTIDIS
  Panathinaikos
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Diamantidis, Panath.	5.7
2. Cook, Valencia	5.6
3. Huertas, Caja L.	5.5
4. Spanoulis, Olympiakos	4.3
5. Jasikevicius, Lietuv.	4.3
6. Ilievski, Union O.	4.1
7. Stipcevic, Cibona	4.1
8. Papaloukas, Olymp.	4.1
9. Jerrells, Partizan	3.8
10. Gordon, CSKA	3.7

Steals Per Game

Chuck EIDSON
  Maccabi T-A
  (202-F/G-80)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Eidson, Maccabi .	2.7
2. Diot, Le Mans	2.2
3. McCalebb, Montepas.	2.1
4. Goldsberry, Brose B.	1.9
5. Smith, Lottomatica	1.8
6. Dedovic, Lottomat.	1.7
7. Ilievski, Union O.	1.7
8. Bogdanovic, Cibona	1.7
9. Stonerook, Montepas.	1.7
10. Ozbolt, Union O.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Mirza BEGIC
  Real Madrid
  (216-C-85)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Begic, Zalgiris	2.3
2. Riddick, Charleroi	1.7
3. Fischer, Real Madrid	1.6
4. Pleiss, Brose B.	1.5
5. Eze, Khimky	1.3
6. Bourousis, Olympiakos	1.3
7. Falker, Cholet	1.3
8. Shermadini, Union O.	1.1
9. Nesterovic, Olymp.	1.1
10. Hines, Brose B.	1.1

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FINLAND

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Derick NELSON
  Lapua
  (196-F-86)
  Avg: 24.1

1. Nelson, Lapua	24.1
2. Manning, Huima	21.8
3. Stamper, LoKoKo	21.6
4. Graham, Kerava ET	21.2
5. Robinson, Jyvaskyla	20.2
6. Bojang, BC Nokia	19.9
7. Hall, SayRi	19.4
8. Douglas, Huima	18.7
9. Towa, Kerava ET	18.4
10. Valentine, Lapua	18.3

Rebounds Per Game

Carlton BROWN
  Ura Basket
  (198-F-79)
  Avg: 14.9

1. Brown, Namika II	14.9
2. Bojang, BC Nokia	14.2
3. Dantzler, LoKoKo	13.5
4. Douglas, Huima	13.5
5. Towa, Kerava ET	13.1
6. Nelson, Lapua	12.1
7. Stamper, LoKoKo	11.3
8. Hall, SayRi	10.8
9. Wilson, Huima	10.6
10. Robinson, Jyvaskyla	9.9

Assists Per Game

Treylon MANNING
  Huima
  (178-G-)
  Avg: 6

1. Manning, Huima	6.0
2. Riihela, BC Nokia	5.2
3. Ramey, Ura Basket	5.2
4. Horton, LoKoKo	3.6
5. Ikavalko, FoKoPo	3.1
6. Valentine, Lapua	3.1
7. Graham, Kerava ET	2.7
8. Ahila, Jyvaskyla	2.7
9. Viertola, FoKoPo	2.4
10. Pasanen, SayRi	2.4

Steals Per Game

Benny VALENTINE
  Lapua
  (170-G-87)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Valentine, Lapua	2.3
2. Horton, LoKoKo	2.3
3. Bojang, BC Nokia	2.1
4. Roberson, Huima	2.0
5. Stamper, LoKoKo	2.0
6. Pasanen, SayRi	1.8
7. Ramey, Ura Basket	1.8
8. Hall, SayRi	1.8
9. Foreman, FoKoPo	1.7
10. Rainamaa, TomPo II	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Carlton BROWN
  Ura Basket
  (198-F-79)
  Avg: 0.8

1. Brown, Namika II	0.8
2. Kopio, Honka	0.7
3. Setala, BC Nokia	0.7
4. Rainamaa, TomPo II	0.6
5. Stamper, LoKoKo	0.6
6. Alanko, Ura Basket	0.6
7. Alanen, Namika II	0.5
8. Ojanen, Jyvaskyla	0.5
9. Nelson, Lapua	0.5
10. Salminen, Ura B.	0.5

1.DIVISION: Loimaa - Lapua now 1-1 - by Rauno Hurmalainen
1.Division Finals, Game # 2: On Sunday Loimaa vs Lapua 70-89. Tonight Lapua - Loimaa 76-93 (35-50). Quarters: 18-24, 17-26, 21-19, 20-24. Very interesting. Both finalists
are obviously nervous in front of their own supporters? Game # 3 on Thursday (March 31) at Loimaa. Today Channing Toney (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: UAB) (Loimaa) and J'son Stamper (200-F/C-85, agency: JEMsports, college: Minnesota) back on their own level and Korikonkarit (LoKoKo) was like a different team. Toney scored game high 27 points and Stamper had a double-double 24pts/10rbs. Derick Nelson (196-F-86, agency: ACMT, college: Oakland) led again Lapua, but netted 'only' 17pts. Nelson had 32pts on Sunday.
Lapua - Loimaa 76-93 (35-50). (Derick Nelson 17/7, Kim Siven 17, Tyrwone Still 12 - Channing Toney 27, J'son Stamper 24/10, Maurice Horton 12/11).

1st Division Round 2 of Finals: Loimaan Korikonkarit ties the series - by Eurobasket News
Lapua - LoKoKo 76-93

The game was mostly controlled by Loimaan Korikonkarit. Lapuan Korikobrat managed to win third quarter 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Lapuan Korikobrat 43-31 including 16 on the offensive glass. 27 personal fouls committed by Lapuan Korikobrat helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Channing Toney (196-86, college: UAB, agency: Interperformances) scored 27 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import power forward J'son Stamper (200-85, college: Minnesota, agency: JEMsports) chipped in 24 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. Toney is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American forward Derick Nelson (196-86, college: Oakland, agency: ACMT) responded with 17 points and 7 rebounds and guard Kim Siven (197-88) scored 17 points and 7 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:
Lapua: K.Siven 17+7reb, D.Nelson 17+7reb+1ast, T.Still 12+4reb, J.Turja 11+4reb+4ast, J.Salo 7+1reb, B.Valentine 5+3reb+5ast
LoKoKo: C.Toney 27+8reb+1ast, J.Stamper 24+10reb+1ast, M.Horton 12+11reb+4ast, E.Aaltonen 10+4reb, J.Kivinen 7+4reb+1ast, S.Latvala 6+3reb+1ast

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FRANCE

JA Vichy signs Bob Menama - by Eurobasket News
JA Vichy added new player to their roster for rest of the season. The team brought in Belgian forward Bob Menama (201-F-80, agency: Interperformances) to replace injured Jonathan Aka (203-F-86).
Menama most recently played for Boualazac in ProB. It was on season 2008/09, when Menama averaged 5.9 points and 1.6 rebounds for 20 games. Before Boulazac, Menama spent one year with Evreux. He appeared 31 times in ProA with them averaging 8.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 1.8 assists. He also has experience from Omonia Nicosia, Rouen, Oliveirense, Vilvoorde and Oostende.
Jonathan Aka played 19 games for Vichy this season before the injury. He registered 5.3 ppg and 4 rpg. From 2008 until the last summer Aka was a member of Boulazac and played half of the season together with Menama.

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FYR MACEDONIA

GERMANY

Niels Giffey (UCONN) If You Say In Germany That Your Goal Is The NBA, You Only Get A Funny Look - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Niels Giffey (200-G/F-91) is a 19 year old 200CM shooting guard/small forward that was born in Berlin and is currently a freshman playing for the UCONN Huskies. He started his basketball career for Marzahn Basket Baeren (2.Regionalliga) in 2005-2006. In 2007-2008, he played for TUS Lichterfelde Berlin (Pro B): 17 games: 2.4ppg, 1.2rpg. He played for Alba Berlin II (Regionalliga) from 2008-2010 and last season played 14 games: 9.6ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg. Some awards/achievements in his young career so far have been U16 National Team -06-07, European Championships U16 in Jaen (Spain) -06: 8 games: 6.8ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 46.8%, 3FGP: 50%, FT: 41.2%, European Championships U16 Division B in Skopje (FYR Macedonia) -07, German U18 National Team -08-09, Albert Schweitzer International Tournament in Mannheim (Unofficial World Championships U18) -08, Adidas World Junior Tournament in Douai (France) -08, European Championships U18 in Amaliada Pyrgos (Greece) -08: 6 games: 6.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 46.7%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 70.0%, Nike Euroleague Junior Tournament (Unofficial European Clubs Junior Championships) -09, German NBBL All-Star Game -10, German Regionalliga (North Group) Champion -10, German U20 National Team -10, Eurobasket.com German All-Regionalliga North Second Team -10, and Eurobasket.com German All-Regionalliga North Domestic Players Team -10. Eurobasket spoke to the young German prior to March Madness about his life in the NCAA.

How do you like American football? UCONN has a successful football team.

I have been to one game. They have a very good team won the Big East. At first it was hard to understand the game, but with time I have began to enjoy the sport.

Was it easy or difficult to leave Germany to go to the States to play NCAA basketball?

It was very hard to go. I thought about it a year before I left. I spoke to many people including my old coach Henrik Roedl and they all gave me good reasons for going.

What were the main reasons for going to UCONN?

I thought that getting a chance like this only comes once in a lifetime so I knew that I had to take it. I thought being able to go to another country to combine school and playing basketball at a very high level was something that I had to do.

Besides your family and Henrik Roedl, who else did you talk with about coming to the States?

I spoke to many friends like Max Rockmann who is also playing NCAA and all my old coaches that I had.

How do you like the States?

I love it. The student life is laid back which is nice.

What have been the positives and negatives so far?

Coming from Germany to here has been like night and day. At UCONN, the teachers accept that you are an athlete. In Germany, you got free days because of games and things, but you arent really seen as an athlete. The teachers help you more in the States. On the floor, the coaches ask you if you want to do an extra practice or work on individual things which isnt seen as much in Germany.

How difficult is it getting minutes in the NCAA for UCONN?

It is very hard to get minutes. It was easier at the start and I dont really know why. I had better games at the tournament in Hawaii. I dont have my game at the moment, but you cant forget that it is a big transition coming form Regionaliga and some PRO B and going into the NCAA.

What exactly is your role for Jim Calhoun at UCONN?

That is hard to say. I am still trying to find my role a bit. I think that I am that type of player that tries to bring something extra special to the court when I come in. I am the guy that might make that extra pass or dive for a ball. But I also strive to play solid offense and defense.

Where will the journey for UCONN end this season?

Our main goal is to reach the NCAA tournament and come as far as possible.

Coach Jim Calhoun has been coach at UCONN since 1986 and won the NCAA title in 1999 and 2004. what has been the most important thing that you have learned from him so far?

He has taught me that nobody should define you. You should be your own player, have your own ego and just play with self confidence.

How strange is it playing the home games against the smaller school in the Gampel pavillion and the games against the bigger schools in the XL center arena in Hartford?

At first it was a adjustment, but now it doesnt make a difference. The Gampel pavillion is on campus about 5 minutes from my dorm room. That is the middle of campus where there is always something going on and a lot of students whereas when we play in the XL arena we have to travel to the state capital of Hartford.

Has it been tough playing in so many big places like the Bradley Center in Milwaukee or the Prudential Center?

It has been very different for me playing in big arenas. I just have to remember not to be intimidated by fans. I have been amazed by the big places, but you just have to remember to play your game if it is playing in front of 10,000 people or just in front of a few in the Regionaliga.

Is your teammate Kemba Walker the best player in the NCAA this season?

Yes I think that he is. It is just great being able to see him play live. It is amazing how he is able to decide games and how calm and cool he remains in crunch time and is able to make the shots.

How is your relationship with Kemba Walker?

We have a good relationship. He is a cool guy and not arrogant at all. He is a funny guy and that the same time very nice. He will probably play in the NBA next year.

What has been the craziest thing that Walker has done on the court?

I think when he totally dominated the tournament in Maui, Hawaii where he scored like 30 points per game.

How is your German teammate Enosch Wolf doing?

He has a harder time than me simply because he came a lot later to the team where the team was stable and the rotation was set, but he is making strides.

How would you compare the NCAA level to the BEKO BBL?

That is tough since I havent played in the BEKO BBL yet, but from what I know I would say that the game is more tactical and in the NCAA, you have to sit down when you didnt a contested shot something which wouldnt happen in Europe.

What was the most crazy thing that you have experienced in the States so far?

It happened at the start during my official visit to UCONN when I was in New York. I was in Times Square and saw two women with see through tops walk past a policeman who didnt think that was a funny thing.

What do you miss the most form Germany.

I miss my family and friends, but also the city life. Storrs has 20,000 students there, but it is still a town.

What has surprised you the most about the States?

I think just the way people act. Here it seems like the goal of each player is the NBA. If you say in Germany that your goal is the NBA, you would only get a funny look.

Who were your basketball idols as a kid?

My idol was my first coach Norbert Stumpe of the U-12. He was a gym caretaker and always let us practice in his gym. He inspired me a lot. He was a very hard working guy and taught me at the age of 12/13 many things about respect. He had a very interesting personality.

What was your most crazy shot ever?

It was at an NBBL Allstar game where I hit a lucky three pointer about 2 meters behind the three point line after making a cross over move.

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

I would say about 60.

Which teams will reach the 2011 NCAA Final 4?

I would say UCONN; Pittsburgh and Duke. The fourth I dont know.

What do you think will be your major next season?

I am hinging in the direction of business in combination of Geography.

What are your hobbies?

I do a lot with my teammates, or watch TV in bed or play X box.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Its kind of a funny story. It was a funny movie with the guy from Hang Over.

Thanks Niels for the chat.

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GREECE

Fans-"terrorists" menacing basketball in Greece - by George Fragkos
Since the beginning of the season, Greek basketball has faced a lot of problems due to violence by some fans, of whom the first priority is to cause trouble. At football stadiums such incidents are not something new to anybody in almost the whole Europe, but at basketball, Greece is probably the only country which has to deal with riots between fans and a lot of times the police too.

From the very first day of the league, fans of Iraklis attacked Byars in Ivanofeio during the game between the team they support and Panellinios. The game was stopped and the referees demanded the evacuation of the stands in order to continue the game.

Almost two months later, Aris faced Iraklis at the local derby. The home team won the game but after the end of it Aris fans invaded in the part of the stands, where some members of the board of Iraklis were sitting and started throwing chairs to them. Fortunately there was no injury to anyone.

Just some weeks later, PAOK played with Olympiakos in PAOK Sports Arena for the semi-finals of the Greek Cup. The visitor team being superior to the one from Thessaloniki was in front with more than 15 points and this made some fans of PAOK to cause the interruption of the game by throwing things on the court. One of them injured one of the referees, who ordered the police to evacuate the stands. After that the game continued and finished with a delay of almost two hours.

In the beginning of 2011, the derby between the eternal rivals, Panathinaikos and Olympiakos took place in OAKA. Olympiakos was obviously in much better condition and Panathinaikos trailed them during almost the whole game. At the fourth period, fans of Panathinaikos, who could not stand watching their fierce rivals beating them at their own home started throwing things to the players of the reds, between which rocket-flares and firecrackers. The referees stopped the game, the fans calmed down and the game was continued. By the end, Panathinaikos fans did exactly the same thing and there was real danger of someone from Olympiakos to be hurt. Luck helped once again and this did not happen.

The last incident was some days ago in Ivanofeio again. The fans of Iraklis tried to get close members of the board of Aris and the police tried to push them back. After that they attacked the police and there was a very big clash between the two sides. The fans threw chairs and everything else one can imagine against the police and the policemen backfired by hitting them with truncheons. Some of the terrorist-fans invaded the court and tried to attack some of the players who immediately ran to the dressing-rooms and so did the referees. For one more time the stands got evacuated and the game continued from the point is stopped.

As everybody can easily understand, this cannot keep on like that! Basketball arenas have been transformed into a battleground of terrorists and the players risk their lives every time they get into them, especially to play a game between two rival clubs. After the end of the game between Iraklis and Aris, at the press conference the two coaches, Lefteris Subotic and Chris Hugaz and two players from each team, Kostas Charalampides and Giannis Demertzis, highlighted the same thing. The fact that they cannot get on a court to play a game and fear for their lives and the ones of their relatives who watch them from the stands. Especially, Charalampides spoke of how justified he felt not letting his family watch the game.

This is not basketball as the slogan of the Basket League claims. This is a real war between some gangs which use the sport to express their violent emotions and fight with the police. It really does not matter which teams are concerned. For example, the fans of Olympiakos are not referred at all above but they were not able to watch their team until January, due to a punishment of 10 games without crowd that was imposed to the club from Piraeus because of such incidents during last seasons finals. This is a problem of every single team and it should be dealt with by all of them. The people who love this sport are fed up with all those things. Clubs get punished to play without fans but this situation does not improve. On the contrary, the problem grows bigger and bigger!

There have been some attempts by the organizing committee of the league, the union of the Greek basketball players and the state, but obviously they were not enough. Punishing the clubs means almost nothing to all those who think that they can cause trouble because they simply want to do so. If some much harsher rules can solve this problem, then the ones who have the authority to order them, should do it immediately! Greek basketball has a lot of problems but it can overcome all of them, except from this one, especially if it continues to develop. All of those, who are able to and have the power to, should eliminate this problem now. Otherwise, nobody can guarantee that nothing worse may happen!

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HOLLAND

Gas Terra Flames Win Dutch Cup - by Greg
Sunday afternoon in the Dutch Cup final in Almere, after a tight first three quarters, the defending Dutch champions GasTerra Flames Groningen found their second wind in the 4th quarter through dominance on the backboards and more sheer will to win 67-55 over WCAA Giants Bergen op Zoom. The Flames took advantage of their height advantage (and poor blocking out by the Giants) to a 55-33 rebounding difference. The Flames grabbed 12 total offensive rebounds in the last 4 minutes of the 3rd quarter, including six by Jason Ellis (201-F-82, college: Boise St.)! This is what would make the difference in the game, and the Giants made further no adjustments to alleviate this deficency. In the 4th quarter the Flames' top scorer Matt Haryasz (210-C-84, college: Stanford) stepped up with making three free throws and two baskets, his jumper with 1:11 remaining giving Donar a 66-55 lead and was the knockout blow. Haraysz led Donar with 17 pts. Tim Blue led the giants with 18 pts. With the 2011 Dutch Cup in its trophy case, the team of head coach Marco van den Berg can now set its sights on defending its DBL title.

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HUNGARY

A Division Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jara DOYNE
  Falco-Szova
  (193-G/F-84)
  Avg: 23.4

1. Doyne, Falco-Szova	23.4
2. El-Amin, PVSK P.	21.7
3. Bell, Kormend	21.5
4. Marshall, Marso-Va.	20.8
5. Townes, Soproni	19.8
6. Mekongo, FS Debre.	19.3
7. Rubin, Szedeak	19.3
8. Wilson, Kaposvari	19.3
9. Cunningham, Kapos.	19.0
10. Sales, Atomeromu	18.6

Rebounds Per Game

Darian TOWNES
  Soproni
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Townes, Soproni	11.4
2. Sales, Atomeromu	11.0
3. Jones, Albacomp	9.5
4. Werner, Kaposvari	9.0
5. Egemonye, PVSK P.	9.0
6. Bader, Szolnok	8.8
7. Cunningham, Kapos.	8.8
8. Bell, Kormend	8.5
9. Szabo, Soproni	8.5
10. Gosa, Falco-Szova	8.4

Assists Per Game

Lorenzo WILLIAMS
  Khimik
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Williams, ZTE K.	7.3
2. Savic, Marso-Vagep	6.3
3. Trotter, Szolnok	6.3
4. Kelley, Soproni	6.1
5. Kalman, Falco-Sz.	6.0
6. Rodgers, Salgotar.	5.9
7. Simon, Albacomp	5.7
8. Moore, Kormend	5.4
9. Glavinic, PVSK P.	5.0
10. Wittmann, Kecsk.	4.4

Steals Per Game

Brane SAVIC
  Marso-Vagep
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 3.5

1. Savic, Marso-Vagep	3.5
2. Hanga, Albacomp	2.9
3. Marshall, Marso-Va.	2.9
4. Czigler, Marso-Va.	2.7
5. Trotter, Szolnok	2.6
6. Williams, ZTE K.	2.5
7. Werner, Kaposvari	2.5
8. Rodgers, Salgotar.	2.4
9. Singletary, FS Debre.	2.3
10. Townes, Soproni	2.3

Blocks Per Game

Ivory CLARK
  Szolnok
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Clark, Szolnok	2.3
2. Townes, Soproni	2.0
3. Czigler, Marso-Va.	1.3
4. McKenzie, Szedeak	1.3
5. Egemonye, PVSK P.	1.1
6. Aliakseyeu, Falco-Sz.	1.0
7. Keller, Albacomp	0.9
8. Orsulic, Kecskemeti	0.8
9. Langford, FS Debre.	0.8
10. Davis, Kormend	0.8

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IBL

Los Angeles Lightning will play in the IBL Winter season - by Trask Frost

L.A. LIGHTNING NEWS RELEASE
By Dave Loveton, media director
Monday, March 28, 2011

Lightning moving to IBL Winter season
Pro basketball team will start in mid-November

After playing in the spring for its first three years in the International Basketball League, the pro basketball team will compete in the 2011 IBL Winter season, which runs from mid-November to the playoffs in January.

The Lightning, which has featured eight former NBA players on its star-studded roster, captured the 2009 IBL Championship. That squad was led by Lamond Murray, Fred Vinson and Toby Bailey. The team went 14-6 in 2010, led by IBL All-Star Trayvon Lathan (26 ppg, 11.5 rpg), and has won 19 of its last 22 home games. 'We have a developing business opportunity that would have created a conflict with the latter part of the Spring season,' said Lightning owner and GM Mark Harwell. 'After three years in the spring, we felt it was time for a change. I think it will be a good fit to play during the traditional basketball season.'

The IBL, a high-scoring league that allows just one timeout per quarter, will start its seventh Spring season in April. The first Winter season was held in 2010 with nine teams competing. Four advanced to the playoffs and the Kankakee Soldiers won the inaugural Winter Cup on a 40-foot shot at the buzzer on Jan. 16, 2011.

The Lightning will continue to play its home games at Cal Lutheran's Gilbert Sports Arena in Thousand Oaks. They expect to play about 20 games in the winter campaign. Harwell said the team will also continue to hold fund-raisers for local charities and high schools. The Lightning provides local high schools with 500 tickets to sell for a specific game and then shares half the proceeds with the school's athletic department. The Lightning has made a big impact in the community by offering free youth tickets to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Ventura County; Boys and Girls Clubs and local youth baseball leagues. They've also established charitable partnerships with the Agoura Youth Basketball Association and the Rising Star Music Fund.

Note: the International Basketball League believes that 9 to 10 teams will play games in the Winter season with 5 or 6 teams being full season teams; teams indicating participation so far are from- Nevada, California, Oregon Michigan, Indiana and Illinois- these are teams playing a full 20-game schedule with games starting early November 2011. IBL Winter playoff games occur on the second weekend in January 2012. The 2011 playoffs (a year ago) ccurred at Kellogg's Arena in Battle Creek Michigan. This year's Winter league championship playoffs are anticipated to be in the Midwest for a second year in a row.

International Basketball League to run second year of Winter league where teams are once again- limited to one flight - by Trask Frost
International Basketball League will hold meeting about the Winter season in Portland Oregon on April 29th and 30th- 2011

Minor league basketball team owners appreciate that the International Basketball League limits the # of airplane trips to 1 flight per season. Team owners -in fact- appreciate the '1 flight guarantee' enough to where various teams have repeatedly asked the IBL to start a Winter season/division. The IBL is very devoted to its Spring/Summer session, a season that produces incredibly high talent (mainly due to playing in late April, May, June and early July) but IBL Commissioner Mikal Duilio obliged last Winter, 'we ran our first Winter season last year and it went well, nine teams played various games with four of those teams playing a full season and then competing in a 4-team end of season tournament'.

The Spring/Summer season is still the IBL trademark season due to very high level of play (top overseas and NBDL type players appreciate the timing of the season- in May, June and early July), but the IBL will indeed run a 2nd Winter season starting November 2011 (Winter season ends mid January of 2012). IBL Commissioner 'some markets respond better in the Winter and for those few markets that need to play in the Winter, the IBL is willing to provide our high quality systems and approach to scheduling that limits team owners to 1 flight per season'.

For minor league basketball team owners interested in participating in the International Basketball League Winter season 2011/2012, a conference with training will be held in Portland, Oregon on April 29th and 30th, 2011. If interested in playing in the Winter season, contact the IBL at (ph) 503-380-4539 (capable inquiries only please).

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL LEAGUE:

The International Basketball League is heading into its 7th year: the sixth IBL Championship was held in Albany New York on July 16th, 2010; in that game- the Albany Legends beat the visiting Bellingham Slam (from Washington) 126 to 111.

The IBL is international: Shanxi China and Edmonton Canada competed in the IBL 2008 season. In the 2009 IBL season, a team from Japan- the Nippon Tornadoes and a second Canadian team-the British Columbia Titans competed in the IBL. In addition to teams from Asia and Canada playing in the IBL, the Central Oregon Hotshots and the Elkhart (Indiana) Express played 5 games apiece in China. In 2011, the Vancouver Volcanoes played 5 games in Japan.

An entertaining game: by allowing only 1 timeout per quarter, and reducing dead time with an 'immediate inbounds', IBL games are always fast & entertaining and the contest only lasts 2 hours. IBL believes that basketball was meant to be athletic and the game was meant to move; the IBL takes out the unnatural and unintended breaks in play ('unintended' by Naismith).

Arena league: IBL teams upgraded playing venues in recent seasons.

The IBL dates of play appeal to high level players: the IBL season occurs from late April - the end of June with playoffs occurring July 1st- 3rd. The timing of the IBL season has led to great players wanting to play in the IBL. These are players who need to continue their development or maintain their development. This development league concept- started with the 2007 season-when after the 2007 IBL season ended- 102 players went on from the IBL to then play overseas basketball.

Former NBA players that have played in the IBL: 25 former NBA players have appeared in the IBL (IBL web site, Hall of Fame link).

Highest attendance: An impressive attendance was garnered at an IBL game played in 2006 in Portland Oregon at the Rose Garden (photo above) where 4,400 fans watched Portland beat Vancouver (video of this game is available on the IBL web site, click on the team- Vancouver Volcanoes). One year later, that attendance record was eclipsed when just under 6,000 fans saw the Elkhart Express (Indiana) beat the Grand Rapids (Michigan) Flight (video of this game can also be found here).

Key feature of the IBL for an owner: the IBL was designed around the concept of creating extremely low travel costs for the owners; in fact, the IBL has a 'one flight guarantee' for teams. International Basketball League teams can play a variety of opponents from all over the country (or world) but team owners in the IBL only are required to fly one time (not counting playoffs which are optional, after the 20-game season).

www.IBLhoopsOnline.com

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ICELAND

Express L. Round 1 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
KR - Keflavik 87-79

KR surged ahead in the semifinal series against Keflavik as they celebrated at home court in the opener. It looked good early as Keflavik took an 15-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then KR had a 28-8 second period charge getting the lead and Keflavik was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 79-87. The former international swingman Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87) nailed a double-double by scoring 24 points, 16 rebounds and 8 assists for the winning side and American guard Marcus Walker (186-86, college: Colorado St., agency: 011 Sports) accounted for 33 points (!!!), 5 rebounds and 4 assists. American guard Thomas Sanders (191-85, college: Gardner-Webb, agency: Duran International) came up with 28 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists and the former international guard Axel Vilhjalmsson (188-88) added 10 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for Keflavik in the defeat. Four Keflavik players scored in double figures. Keflavik's coach Gudjon Skulason rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
KR: M.Walker 33+5reb+4ast, P.Ermolinskij 24+16reb+8ast, H.Magnusson 12+3reb, B.Bjoernsson 7+6reb+2ast, F.Alafsson 5+6reb, F.Ingason 4+3reb+1ast
Keflavik: T.Sanders 28+9reb+6ast, A.Ciric 16+5reb, G.Thorsteinsson 11+10reb+1ast, A.Vilhjalmsson 10+9reb+5ast, M.Gunnarsson 6+5reb+5ast, H.Halldorsson 6+2reb+1ast

Snaefell - Stjarnan 73-75

Stjarnan upset Snaefell on the road to take 1-0 lead in the semis. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 20-14 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. FYR Macedonian forward Jovan Zdravevski (197-80) stepped up and scored 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and American-Estonian forward Renato Lindmets (198-84, college: Westfield St., agency: Tank Sports) chipped in 13 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. At the losing side American-Italian forward Ryan Amoroso (203-85, college: San Diego St.) responded with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 13 rebounds and American point guard Sean Burton (175-86, college: Ithaca) scored 18 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals.
Top scorers:
Stjarnan: J.Zdravevski 20+9reb+4ast, J.Shouse 19+5reb+4ast, R.Lindmets 13+12reb+4ast, F.Helgason 8+5reb+1ast, D.Guamundsson 6+2reb, M.Valdimarsson 5
Snaefell: R.Amoroso 19+13reb+3ast, S.Burton 18+5reb+5ast, P.Sigurgeirsson 12+3reb+3ast, Z.Bojovic 9+6reb+4ast, J.Olafur Jonsson 7+9reb+2ast, S.Daviasson 6+2reb+1ast

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Marcus WALKER
  KR
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 24

1. Walker, KR	24.0
2. Trifunovic, Keflavik	23.0
3. Sanders, Keflavik	22.8
4. Inge, Haukar	21.8
5. Biedler, IR	21.7
6. Bartolotta, IR	21.6
7. Dabney, Hamar	21.1
8. Robinson, Haukar	21.0
9. Sovic, IR	21.0
10. Smith, Njardvik	20.9

Rebounds Per Game

Gerald ROBINSON
  Haukar
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.7

1. Robinson, Haukar	13.7
2. Biedler, IR	12.4
3. Pettinella, Grindavik	11.3
4. Ermolinskij, KR	10.9
5. Trifunovic, Keflavik	10.3
6. Fain, Tindastoll	10.1
7. Amoroso, Snaefell	9.9
8. Stywall, Fjolnir	9.8
9. Jonsson, Snaefell	9.1
10. Nathanaelsso., Ham.	8.3

Assists Per Game

Aegir STEINARSSON
  Fjolnir
  (182-G-91)
  Avg: 8.7

1. Steinarsson, Fjolnir	8.7
2. Ermolinskij, KR	7.8
3. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.	7.3
4. Burton, Snaefell	6.4
5. Shouse, Stjarnan	5.9
6. Haraldsson, Haukar	5.6
7. Arnarson, Hamar	5.3
8. Schoen, KFI	5.2
9. Inge, Haukar	5.2
10. Cunningham, Tinda.	4.9

Steals Per Game

Semaj INGE
  Haukar
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Inge, Haukar	3.2
2. Schoen, KFI	3.0
3. Fain, Tindastoll	2.9
4. Dabney, Hamar	2.9
5. Kitanovic, Tindastoll	2.5
6. Biedler, IR	2.5
7. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.	2.5
8. Steinarsson, Fjolnir	2.3
9. Arnarson, Hamar	2.2
10. Moore, Njardvik	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Christopher SMITH
  Svit
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Smith, Njardvik	3.2
2. Nathanaelsso., Ham.	2.5
3. Biedler, IR	2.0
4. Fain, Tindastoll	1.6
5. Savarsson, Grind.	1.4
6. Inge, Haukar	1.4
7. Thorsteinsso., Kefla.	1.3
8. Pettinella, Grindavik	1.3
9. Lindmets, Stjarnan	1.3
10. Magnusson, KR	1.2

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

INDIA

BFI elections: R.S.Gill re-elected as President - by M. Rajalingam

R.S.Gill got re-elected as the President of Basketball Federation Of India. The new office bearers were elected at the Annual General Council Meeting of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) was held at Nagpal Regency, Ludhiana, on March 27th, 2010, under the supervision of Government Observer Mr. Pramod Agarwa, IOA Observer Mr. KS Sidhu, and Returning Office Mr. TC Gupta.
The members who were elected as office bearers and executive members of BFI, have various different basketball credentials, including former national and international players, national and international coaches, and national and FIBA international referees.

1.President: Mr. RS Gill
2.Sr. Vice President: Mr. K Govindraj
3.Vice President (Lady): Ms. Nandini Basappa
4.Vice President: Mr. Alok Sharma
5.Vice President: Mr. Mukut Medhi
6.Vice President: Mr. Vikram Singh Shekhawat
7.Vice President: Mr. M Venkatesh
8.Vice President: Mr. Teja Singh
9.Secretary General: Mr. Ajay Sud
10.Treasurer: Mr. KP Changoiwala
11.Associate Secretary: Mr. Rajesh Patel
12.Associate Secretary: Mr. Shafiq A Shaikh
13.Associate Secretary: Mr. V Ragothaman
14.Associate Secretary: Mr. Ashok Kr. Sahu
15.Associate Secretary: Mr. Ashok Rangeen
16.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Bhupendra Shahi
17.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Bimal Pal
18.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Chander Mohan
19.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Dalbir Singh Kharab
20.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Jugraj Singh
21.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Kulwinder Singh Gill
22.Executive Committee Member: Mr. L Suren
23.Executive Committee Member: Mr. RK Sanatomba Singh
24.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Shekhar Chand Jain
25.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Shakti Sinh M. Gohil
26.Executive Committee Member: Mr. Vinod Vachani

Source: indiabasketball.org [BFI website]

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IRAN

Jimmy Baxter is going to join Petrochimi - by Mohammad Amin Maghsoodlou
American forward Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, college: S.Florida) is going to signing a deal with Petrochimi . The 30-year-old forward has started this season with Ilysiakos Athens averaging 15.9 ppg .Baxter some days ago received a very good proposal by Petrochimi and he was seriously thinking about it . after talking with the board of the Ilysiakos Athens club, has been let free to go and continue his career in Petrochimi.
Last season Jimmy Baxter played in Israel-Premier League for Ironi Ashkelon averaged 13.5 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 24 games.

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ISRAEL

Cory Carr joined Ironi Ashkelon - by Eurobasket News
Corry Carr (192-G-75, college: Texas Tech) joined Ironi Ashkelon and already debuted for his new team. The 192cm Guard could not help however his new team versus Maccabi Haifa losing 72:74.
Corry Carr career started early in1994-1995 for Texas Tech (NCAA). In the last season there he was awarded Texas Techs all-time leading three point shooter and fourth all-time leading scorer. In 1998-1999 for $287,500 joined Chicago Bulls (NBA) and after 42 games averaged 4.1ppg, 1.2rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 32.9%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 75.0%. In 2000-2001 moved to Pau-Orthez (France-ProA): and after 11games had 13.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.5apg; Suproleague: 8 games: 16.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 3apg. Later on the player spent season at Maccabi Raanana (Israel-PremierLeague), Nancy Sluc (France-ProA), Hapoel Galil Elyon, Hapoel Haifa/Ramat Hasharon (Israel-Premier L.), Maccabi Givat Shmuel, Elitzur Ashkelon, Hapoel Ironi Nahariya, Agricola Gloria Montecatini (Italy-Lega2), Elitzur Ashkelon, Maccabi Givat Shmuel. In 2009-2010 Corry Carr played for Ironi Ashkelon (Israel-Premier League, starting five) and after 21 games showed 9.3ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 75.9%. The season 2010-2011 started for Pizza Express Primetel Apollon (Cyprus-Division A, starting five) and averaged 11.8 points per game.

Premier League Round 23 of Regular Season - 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 game in Rishon Le-Zion was quite interesting. Second ranked Hapoel J-M (15-8) played at the court of 5th ranked Maccabi Rishon (11-12). Hapoel J-M defeated Maccabi Rishon 87-75 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 12-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87-75. Hapoel J-M shot 32 for 43 from the free-throw line, while Maccabi Rishon only scored fifteen points from the stripe. 31 personal fouls committed by Maccabi Rishon helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American players dominated the game. Forward Brian Randle (203-85) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Jason Rich (191-86) contributed with 17 points (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) for the winners. Swingman Dwayne Mitchell (196-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) answered with 27 points and 9 rebounds for Maccabi Rishon. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Hapoel J-M have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 15-8 record having five points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Rishon lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. They share it with Maccabi Ashdod. Hapoel J-M are looking forward to face Galil Gilboa (#4) at home in the next round. Maccabi Rishon will play against Bnei Hasharon in Hod Hasharon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Important game to mention about took place in Haifa. Ninth ranked Maccabi Haifa (6-16) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 10th ranked Ironi Ashkelon (5-18) 74-72 in the game for the ninth place. American players dominated also this game. It was a great evening for point guard Germaine Jackson (195-76, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory scoring 10 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Frank Robinson helped adding 12 points and 6 steals. Power forward Rahshon Turner (201-75, college: Fairleigh Dickinson, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Ironi Ashkelon's coach Eli Rabi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Maccabi Haifa maintains ninth place with 6-16 record. Ironi Ashkelon at the other side stay at the bottom position with 18 games lost. Maccabi Haifa will play against league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ironi Ashkelon will play at home against Maccabi Ashdod (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.

In the last two games of round 23 Elitzur Netanya was beaten by Maccabi Ashdod on the road 97-89. Bnei Hasharon won against Hapoel Holon on its own court 82-73.

Maccabi Haifa - Ironi Ashkelon 74-72

Important game to mention about took place in Haifa. Ninth ranked Maccabi Haifa (6-16) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 10th ranked Ironi Ashkelon (5-18) 74-72 in the game for the ninth place. American players dominated also this game. It was a great evening for point guard Germaine Jackson (195-76, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory scoring 10 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Guard Frank Robinson (193-84, college: Cal.St. Fullerton, agency: Priority Sports) helped adding 12 points and 6 steals. Four Maccabi Haifa players scored in double figures. Power forward Rahshon Turner (201-75, college: Fairleigh Dickinson, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists and swingman Desmon Farmer (196-81, college: USC) scored 14 points and 7 rebounds. Ironi Ashkelon's coach Eli Rabi rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Maccabi Haifa maintains ninth place with 6-16 record. Ironi Ashkelon at the other side stay at the bottom position with 18 games lost. Maccabi Haifa will play against league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ironi Ashkelon will play at home against Maccabi Ashdod (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Maccabi Haifa: F.Robinson 12+3reb+2ast, B.Rothbart 11+2reb, A.Ben-Chimol 11+2reb+2ast, E.Kadir 11+4reb+2ast, G.Jackson 10+6reb+7ast, T.Wilkerson 8+6reb+1ast
Ironi Ashkelon: R.Turner 21+11reb+4ast, D.Hagag 15+3reb+4ast, D.Farmer 14+7reb+1ast, G.Porat 7+3reb+1ast, R.Green 7+2reb+2ast, E.Marckovich 4+4reb

Maccabi Ashdod - Elitzur Netanya 97-89

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Maccabi Ashdod (11-12) beat at home 8th ranked Elitzur Netanya (8-15) 97-89. It looked good early as Elitzur Netanya took an 12-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Maccabi Ashdod took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 8 points. They made 17-of-22 charity shots (77.3 percent) during the game. Maccabi Ashdod players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for swingman Josh Carter (201-88, college: Texas A&M) who led his team to a victory scoring 27 points. Forward Lorenzo Gordon (201-83, college: Oklahoma City, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) helped adding 18 points and 10 rebounds. Five Maccabi Ashdod players scored in double figures. Guard Adrian Banks (191-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) responded with 29 points and 4 assists and guard Joe Smith (193-77, college: Al.-Huntsville, agency: Priority Sports) scored 14 points and 7 assists. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Maccabi Ashdod moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Maccabi Rishon. Elitzur Netanya at the other side keeps the eighth position with 15 games lost. Maccabi Ashdod will play against bottom-ranked Ironi Ashkelon (#10) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Elitzur Netanya will play against Hapoel Holon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Maccabi Ashdod: J.Carter 27+4reb+2ast, L.Gordon 18+10reb+2ast, J.Duncan 17+6reb+3ast, M.Tapiro 14+6reb+9ast, N.Berkowitz 12+3reb+5ast, J.Martin 5+1reb
Elitzur Netanya: A.Banks 29+4reb+4ast, J.Smith 14+1reb+7ast, E.Brown 12+6reb+2ast, T.Washam 8+2reb+1ast, R.Travis 8+6reb+1ast, E.Gueta 8+4reb+2ast

Maccabi Rishon - Hapoel J-M 75-87

The game in Rishon Le-Zion was quite interesting. Second ranked Hapoel J-M (15-8) played at the court of 5th ranked Maccabi Rishon (11-12). Hapoel J-M defeated Maccabi Rishon 87-75 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 12-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87-75. Hapoel J-M shot 32 for 43 from the free-throw line, while Maccabi Rishon only scored fifteen points from the stripe. 31 personal fouls committed by Maccabi Rishon helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American players dominated the game. Forward Brian Randle (203-85) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Jason Rich (191-86) contributed with 17 points (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) for the winners. Five Hapoel J-M players scored in double figures. Swingman Dwayne Mitchell (196-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) answered with 27 points and 9 rebounds and guard Isaiah Swann (188-85, college: Florida St.) added 20 points in the effort for Maccabi Rishon. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Hapoel J-M have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 15-8 record having five points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Rishon lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. They share it with Maccabi Ashdod. Hapoel J-M are looking forward to face Galil Gilboa (#4) at home in the next round. Maccabi Rishon will play against Bnei Hasharon in Hod Hasharon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Hapoel J-M: J.Rich 17+3reb+3ast, Y.Naimy 12+3reb+2ast, B.Randle 12+11reb+2ast, Y.Ohayon 10+2reb+4ast, S.Clancy 10+3reb+1ast, J.Williams 8+3reb+1ast
Maccabi Rishon: D.Mitchell 27+9reb+3ast, I.Swann 20+2reb+2ast, N.Hanochi 11+3reb+4ast, A.McGhee 6+1reb, R.Morgan 4+4reb+1ast, E.Shulman 3

Bnei Hasharon - Hapoel Holon 82-73

Very expected game when 7th ranked Hapoel Holon (10-13) lost to third ranked Bnei Hasharon (14-9) in Hod Hasharon 73-82. The hosts were already 12 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 19-16 Hapoel Holon's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 82-73 at the end of the game. They outrebounded Hapoel Holon 47-33 including a 33-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. Bnei Hasharon brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. It was a great evening for American power forward Shawn James (208-83, college: Northeastern, agency: ZAG Advocates) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 12 points, 17 rebounds and 5 blocks. American-Romanian swingman Dan Grunfeld (198-84, college: Stanford) helped adding 16 points and 7 rebounds. American power forward Rich Melzer (203-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal., agency: Court Side) responded with 22 points and 7 rebounds and point guard Amit Ben David (189-77, agency: Avi Zilberman) scored 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Bnei Hasharon maintains third place with 14-9 record having six points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Hapoel Holon lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 13 games lost. Bnei Hasharon will play against Maccabi Rishon (#5) in Rishon Le-Zion in the next round. Hapoel Holon will play at home against Elitzur Netanya and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bnei Hasharon: D.Grunfeld 16+7reb+1ast, R.Steele 16+1reb+1ast, L.Nailon 14+6reb+1ast, S.James 12+17reb+1ast, B.Rice 8+7reb+2ast, B.Dunston 6+7reb
Hapoel Holon: R.Melzer 22+7reb+2ast, A.Ben David 13+6reb+4ast, M.Roth 11+2reb+6ast, K.Powell 11+5reb, N.Cohen 9+10reb, S.Daniel 6+1reb

Standings - BSL

Premier League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A		21-1
2. Hapoel J-M		15-8
3. Bnei Hasharon		14-9
4. Galil Gilboa		13-9
5. Maccabi Rishon		11-12
6. Maccabi Ashdod		11-12
7. Hapoel Holon		10-13
8. Elitzur Netanya		8-15
9. Maccabi Haifa		6-16
10. Ironi Ashkelon		5-18

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ITALY

AJ Milano and Morris Finley part ways - by Eurobasket News
Morris Finley (180-G-81, college: UAB) is no longer a member of Armani Jeans Milano. Two sides agreed to part ways yesterday. Finley arrived to Milano year and a half ago from Montepaschi Siena. He appeared 13 times in SerieA this season averaging 9.4 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists. In Euroleague, Finley added 11 ppg and 3.2 apg for 10 games. He was sidelined last months due to injury. In his first season with Milano, Morris Finley had 12.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 2.2 apg in Euroleague, plus 11.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 2.9 apg in SerieA.
As mentioned above, Morris Finley played for Montepaschi on season 2008/09. They won the SerieA title and Finley helped with 8.6 ppg, 1.4 rpg and 1.9 apg. In the past, he was a member of Rieti, Liege and Mornar Bar.

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KENYA

Shimba Hills Shine as Coast Provincial Games - by Eurobasket News
Kwale County's Basketball giants Shimba Hills High yesterday dominated the Coast Provincial Secondary Schools Term One games for the second day running.

Shimba girls beat Kilifi's Jaribuni Secondary 154-5 while the boys humiliated Kigwende 102-6 in the event which entered the second day at Shanzu Teachers Training College in Mombasa.

In another boys match, Mombasa wizzards Baptist beat Barani 84 -15 in a match played at Shanzu Teachers Training College. In other girls' matches, Aga Khan from Mombasa County beat Taita-Taveta County flag bearers Eldoro High 37-20 as Mazeras from the semi-arid Kinango district failed to contain Mombasa's Changamwe losing 14-41. In other matches, St. John's mauled Taita's Bura Girls 35-29 before going ahead to humiliate Lamu's Witu 77-16.
Courtesy of: Nairobi Star

Maseno Still the Top in Nyanza - by Eurobasket News
Maseno School continued their domination of school's basketball after successfully defending their Nyanza provincial title at Maranda School in Bondo at the weekend.

Maseno, sponsored by the Kenya Wildlife Service hit Sameta High 98-59 to retain the title. In the third place play off, Gilbert Omariba's Nyamira Boys humiliated St Joseph's Rapogi 74-57.
Courtesy of: Nairobi Star

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

LATVIA

Standings - LBAL

LBL D2 Standings

1. Jurmala		17-5
2. Ogre		16-5
3. Ventspils Aug.		15-5
4. Saldus		15-7
5. BAA Riga		12-9
6. Gulbene		12-10
7. Liepaja-2		11-11
8. Zemgale/Jun.		11-11
9. Daugava		10-11
10. Livani		4-16
11. Ridzene		4-18
12. VEF Kadeti		1-20

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LEBANON

Riyadi stay alive in WABA League Final - by Eurobasket News
Riyadi - Jalaa 101:85

Riyadi did not allow Jalaa to celebrate victory at the WABA League Final yesterday. The Lebanese powerhouse celebrated a comfortable home win to cut the deficit at 1-2 in the best-of-five series. Nathanel Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) erupted for 31 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge.
The teams traded baskets throughout intense first quarter. The hosts grabbed a narrow 25:23 lead after ten minutes but things changed in the second term. Riyadi went on a 14:0 run midway through the period to clear off. The home team arrived at halftime up by 20 points 58:38. Jalaa stopped the rot but could not challenge Riyadi. The hosts maintained the pressure having a 19-point lead with one quarter to go. Jalaa never got within striking distance and had to surrender at the end. Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) provided 25 points and 14 boards in the victory. Mohamad Ibrahim (192-G-83) added 13 points for Riyadi. Michel Maadanli (195-G-81) produced 29 points for Jalaa. Ahmad Ishak (198-F-86) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Riyadi: Nathanel Johnson 31, Loren Woods 25+14 boards, Mohamad Ibrahim 13
Jalaa: Michel Maadanli 29, Ahmad Ishak 16

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LITHUANIA

M.Kasiulevicius season is over - by Deividas Valiunas
Lithuania guard Marius Kasiulevicius (198-F/G-82, college: Trinity Valley JC) season is over. His team Team FOG Naestved losse to Bakken Bears 64:84 and lost semifinal series 3-0.
It looked good early as Team FOG Naestved took an 11-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Bakken Bears took control and eventually won the game that evening by 20 points.
The best player for the winners was Jahmar Thorpe (198-F-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Houston) who scored 26 points and grabs 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Lee Roberts (201-F/C-87, college: Findlay, OH) who recorded 19 points and 8 rebounds.
Guard from Lithuania Marius Kasiuelevicius scores 15 points and grabs 7 rebounds.

Top scorers:
Bakken: J.Thorpe 26+7reb+2ast, C.Burgess 15+7reb+5ast, A.Jakobsen 11+3reb+3ast, C.Nielsen 10+2reb+2ast, H.Petkov 8+4reb, J.Jensen 7+2reb
Naestved: L.Roberts 19+8reb, M.Kasiulevicius 15+7reb, P.Johansen 15+7reb+1ast, D.Smedley 8+6reb+12ast, N.Andreasen 3, R.Norgaard 2+1reb

Standings - LKL

LKL Standings

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

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. Alijevas, Nevezis	15.6
5. Vasylius, Neptunas	15.4
6. Ruikis, Neptunas	14.7
7. Mikalauskas, Naglis.	14.7
8. Juskevicius, Rudupis	14.6
9. Sirvydis, Sakalai	14.3
10. Leonavicius, Techa.	14.1

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.	8.1
5. Dimsa, Nevezis	7.6
6. Mikalauskas, Naglis.	6.7
7. Vasylius, Neptunas	6.6
8. Matulis, Sakalai	6.6
9. Jankunas, Zalgiris	6.6
10. Valukonis, Techasas	6.5

Assists Per Game

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

1. Alijevas, Nevezis	6.3
2. Rinkevicius, Techasas	5.6
3. Broadus, Siauliai	5.2
4. Juskevicius, Rudupis	5.0
5. El-Amin, Lietuvos.	4.4
6. Collins, Zalgiris	4.3
7. Viskontas, Perlas	4.1
8. Janavicius, Siauliai	4.1
9. Dainys, Rudupis	3.9
10. Kalnietis, Zalgiris	3.9

Steals Per Game

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

1. Vasylius, Neptunas	2.1
2. Rinkevicius, Techasas	2.1
3. Juskevicius, Rudupis	2.0
4. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris	1.9
5. Razutis, Naglis-A.	1.8
6. Leonavicius, Techa.	1.8
7. Alijevas, Nevezis	1.8
8. Jasikevicius, Aiscai K.	1.8
9. Valukonis, Techasas	1.7
10. Ruikis, Neptunas	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. Cepukaitis, Juven.	1.0
7. Klimavicius, Zalgiris	1.0
8. Jankauskas, Rudupis	0.9
9. Petrukonis, Perlas	0.8
10. Zelionis, Rudupis	0.8

Lietuvos Rytas brings in Aleksandar Rasic - by Eurobasket News
Aleksandar Rasic (195-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) is a new player of Lietuvos Rytas. The Serbian National Team point guard signed a deal until the end of 2011/12 season. Rasic arrives to Rytas from the Turkish outfit Trabzon. He appeared 22 times in TBL averaging 9.6 points, 3.2 rebounds and 5.2 assists.
Aleksandar Rasic spent last two seasons with Partizan Belgrade helping them to win two Serbian league titles, two Adriatic league titles and two Serbian Cups. He also helped Partizan to reach the Euroleague Final Four last season. Season 2007/08, Rasic spent with ALBA Berlin and before that he was a member of Efes Pilsen and FMP Zeleznik.
Aleksandar Rasic is active member of the Serbian National Team. At the latest World Championship in Turkey he had 9.6 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 3.9 apg for 9 games and Serbia reached the Semifinals.
Lietuvos Rytas currently has 17-3 record in LKL and they will also play in Baltic league Semifinals.

COACH BROWN LIGHTS UP LIETUVOS RYTAS - by Greg
Kaunas, Lithuania-- Player-coach Marcus Brown (193-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) who has been recognized as one of the best U.S. athletes to ever play abroad played a perfect game tonight (4/4 three, 2/2 FT, 0 turnovers, 14 points and 3 rebounds) in just twenty minutes to lead his B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas club to victory against cross Lithuanian town faction Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius.

Brown who just days from now will turn 37 says he believes he has coaching and player development in his future but will play one final year to get himself prepared and approved. 'After I'm finished playing I'd like to do some player development for the younger kids and get under a highly experienced coach,' Brown says.

If all things go well the rest of this season with his B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas club; Brown plans to take his 19 Championships and Cup Titles up to 21 by winning two more titles, the LKL Championship and the BBL Championship to add to B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas already victorious LKL Cup. But it won't be without a fight. B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas and Rytas seem to each have their days in this long time rivalry and Rytas won the Championship last season. However, Brown helped bring B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas to its' first triple crown in 2008.

It's accomplishing feats like that to go with Brown's award winning smile is what has made Brown special. When Brown finally retires from playing-- european basketball will have lost a lot but at the same time it has a lot to gain if Brown comes back to coach. It's teams like Unicaja Malaga Baloncesto who enjoyed their first ever Spanish Championship and first ever Euroleague final four with Brown, French club CSP Limoges who enjoyed their first and only triple crown of titles in 1999, or Ef Es Pilsen who won back to back Turkish Championships and back to back Turkish Cups with Brown--the fans there will never forget him. But there is good reason to believe Brown will never be far from anyone's mind because if his track record rings true to form Brown will bring Championships and Cup titles as an assistant or head coach in his years to come.

Javtokas: Studies broaden your basketball understanding - by Serafim Karaiskakis
Captain of the Lithuanian national basketball team Robertas Javtokas (211-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) is happy with his decision to enroll to study for the Masters in European Basketball Coaching Science, an MSc programme awarded by the University of Worcester in partnership with the Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education (LAPE Kaunas), with the Lithuanian Basketball Federation and endorsed by FIBA Europe.

The 31-year-old center hasnt weighted on a possibility to become a coach just yet, but confirmed that studies brought a lot of value to his game.

You never know whats ahead of you after your playing career is over. Right now I dont think Im up to that level where I could coach. But studies are also useful for basketball players. It broadens your basketball understanding. Im sure it will help me in the future says R. Javtokas.

Valencia Power Electronics player was given high praises after his Euroleague matchup against Kaunas Zalgiris. His current head coach Serbian legend Svetislav Pesic complimented Lithuanians great basketball IQ. According to him, Javtokas along with other big man Omar Cook, are one of the most experienced and respected players on his team.

England is famous for its great universities, so I did not doubt the quality of these studies prior to choosing it. And while sometimes it seems that you know everything about basketball, you find new and new things all the time. One of the best lectures was given by my former coach Rutenis Paulauskas - his propositions were so much different than it was on court remembers R. Javtokas about last summers lectures and seminars that took place in Kaunas.

All students enrolled on the programme (amongst them players and coaches from Europe and beyond) have access to a computer database where video material of every lecture and seminar is uploaded.

Possibility to follow your lectures on the Internet is very useful, especially while on the road, in hotel, etc. Our recent competition schedule was pretty busy and I didnt have a lot of time to study - admits R. Javtokas. To coordinate your studies while playing abroad is not an easy task, but it is definitely doable.
Also some technical issues prevent Javtokas from accessing university database while he is in Valencia. I still dont have a cable Internet at home. Spanish manana never ends So I started to use mobile Internet and stopped waiting for a cable - smiles Lithuanian big man.

R. Javtokas hopes to complete and pass all his assignments and exams from the first year of his studies during this summer and plans on receiving the MSc degree in summer 2012.

Anyone wishing to find out more about the MSc in European Basketball Coaching Science or anyone who is interested in enrolling for the course is advised to send an email to admissions@worc.ac.uk, call the University of Worcester Admissions Office on +44 01905 855111 or visit the course website (www.worc.ac.uk/europeanmastersbasketball) for further details.

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

MEXICO

CIBACOPA - by Harold Valenzuela
Rayos de Hermosillo and Mineros de Cananea are the best 2 teams right now in the early season of CIBACOPA, it looks that Caballeros de Culiacan wont be the champion this year.
Frayles de Guasave is another team that can be the champion this year, they had in their roster a young star Gabriel Giron (

192-F-88), he is one of the best young players (maybe the best) of Mexico.
Pioneros Los Mochis is the only team that has no wins they need to make changes quick to win games, because they are one of the team that started this league 10 years ago.

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

MOLDOVA

Standings

D1 Standings

1. UASM		15-1
2. ASEM		14-2
3. Fire Ball		12-4
4. Gamma		10-6
5. Ribnita		7-10
6. Donduseni		6-11
7. UTM		4-12
8. Patriot		3-13
9. Soroca		2-13

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

MONTENEGRO

Nikola Vucevic declares for NBA draft - by Eurobasket News
Freshman Curtis Washington sat patiently at Fridays press conference in the Galen Center, waiting for junior forward Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90) to announce if he would return for his senior season.

We would ask [Vucevic] and he would never tell us, Washington said.

Vucevics announcement that he will declare for the NBA draft and sign with an agent, forfeiting his final season of collegiate eligibility, means Washingtons minutes for next season will significantly increase.

Of course I always want to work hard, but it makes me work that much harder knowing that I will have a larger role, Washington said. It is going to be difficult to fill Nikolas role, so we are going to have to work hard.

With Vucevic (34.9 minutes per game) and senior forward Alex Stepheson (32.9 minutes per game) departing, USC will rely heavily on an inexperienced frontcourt next season. The Trojans post rotation will include transfers James Blasczyk, DeWayne Dedmon and Aaron Fuller, in addition to Washington, who did not score last season.

Curtis is a lot like me when I was a freshman, Vucevic said. He is a young guy who works really hard every day. He is one of the guys who works the hardest on the team.

USC coach Kevin ONeill said he plans to recruit one or possibly two new players.

We are not going to take anybody that cannot come and help immediately, because that is just wasting a scholarship, ONeill said. If we can find another big, we would be interested, and if we found the right wing player, we might be interested in both, but we are not going to rush into taking somebody for the sake of it.

Only two of USCs top seven scorers from last season, guards Jio Fontan and Maurice Jones, are expected to return next season.

When you lose a guy like [Vucevic], obviously it is going to be a blow to you, ONeill said. It is our job with the guys coming in, and whoever else we end up signing in the late period, to make sure that we have a team that can be competitive in the Pac-10 and get into the postseason.

After deciding to declare for the NBA draft, Vucevic signed with agent Rade Filipovich of BDA Sports Management.

It was a tough decision, Vucevic said. I thought that if I came back we could have done a lot of good stuff, but at the same time, I wanted to take the next step in my life.

Had Vucevic not signed with an agent, he would have had until May 8 to withdraw his name and return to college for his senior season.

I feel like if you do something, you have to go into it 100 percent, Vucevic said. It is a lot easier when you have somebody who can take care of the scheduling part.

Vucevic said he plans to continue taking classes this semester while preparing for the NBA draft, and to take summer school so that he can eventually graduate.

This past season, the 6-foot-10 Vucevic averaged 17.1 points and 10.3 rebounds per game, and was named to the All-Pac-10 First Team. He had a double-double in his final eight regular season Pac-10 games.

Vucevic was the leading scorer and rebounder for the Trojans, who lost to VCU in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

Nikolas great advantage is that he is going to be able to guard [NBA power forwards and centers], which very few people can do, ONeill said.

Courtesy of http://dailytrojan.com

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

NBA

Spurs assign Da'Sean Butler to D-League - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio Spurs forward Da'Sean Butler (6'7''-G/F-88, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: W.Virginia) was assigned to the Austin Toros, San Antonios NBA Development League affiliate, it was announced today. The assignment marks the 50th time in the 2010-11 season an NBA player has been assigned to an NBA D-League affiliate, and it is the first assignment for Butler, a rookie out of West Virginia.

Butler (6-7, 230) signed with San Antonio on March 25. He was placed on the inactive list to continue rehab on a torn left ACL he suffered in the 2010 NCAA Final Four against Duke on April 3, and was recently cleared to resume game action. He was selected by the Miami Heat in the second round (42nd overall) of the 2010 NBA Draft, but was released before the start of the season.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

Trail Blazers recall Luke Babbitt from Idaho Stampede - by Eurobasket News
The Stampede's quest to reach the NBA Development League playoffs will go on without the 6-foot-9 forward Luke Babbitt (6'9''-F-89, college: Nevada), who is heading back to the NBA.

Luke Babbitt played 14 games with Idaho this season, averaging 20.1 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

The Nevada product scored 34 points Sunday in a loss at Austin - his final game with Idaho.

The Stampede close the regular season this weekend with home games against the Utah Flash. Idaho needs wins in those games and some help in order to qualify for the D-League playoffs.

Courtesy of www.idahostatesman.com

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 27.9

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.9
2. James, Miami Heat	26.5
3. Wade, Miami Heat	25.7
4. Stoudemire, New Y.	25.5
5. Bryant, LA Lakers	25.2
6. Anthony, Denver N.	25.2
7. Rose, Chicago B.	25.0
8. Ellis, Golde S.	24.2
9. Howard, Orlando M.	23.2
10. Nowitzki, Dallas M.	23.2

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Love, Minnesota T.	15.4
2. Howard, Orlando M.	14.3
3. Randolph, Memph.	12.4
4. Griffin, LA Clipp.	12.0
5. Bogut, Milwauke.	11.3
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. Jefferson, Utah J.	9.7

Assists Per Game

Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Nash, Phoenix Suns	11.4
2. Rondo, Boston C.	11.3
3. Paul, N.Orleans H.	9.8
4. Williams, Utah Jazz	9.7
5. Felton, New Y.	9.0
6. Calderon, Toron.	8.9
7. Wall, Washington W.	8.6
8. Kidd, Dallas M.	8.4
9. Westbrook, Oklah..	8.3
10. Rose, Chicago B.	7.9

Steals Per Game

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

1. Paul, N.Orleans H.	2.4
2. Ellis, Golde S.	2.2
3. Rondo, Boston C.	2.2
4. Felton, New Y.	1.8
5. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.8
6. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
7. Conley, Memphis G.	1.8
8. Gay, Memphis G.	1.7
9. Evans, Sacramen.	1.7
10. Wall, Washington W.	1.6

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. Stoudemire, New Y.	1.9
7. Bynum, LA Lakers	1.9
8. Okafor, N.Orlean.	1.9
9. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
10. Duncan, San A.	1.9

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Boston C.		51-22
2. Philadelph.76		38-36
3. New York K.		36-38
4. New Jersey N.		23-50
5. Toronto R.		20-53
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		53-20
2. Indiana P.		33-42
3. Milwaukee B.		29-44
4. Detroit P.		26-47
5. Cleveland C.		15-58
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		51-23
2. Orlando M.		47-27
3. Atlanta H.		42-32
4. Charlotte B.		31-42
5. Washington W.		18-55
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		49-24
2. Denver N.		44-29
3. Portland TB		43-31
4. Utah Jazz		36-39
5. Minnesota T.		17-57
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		53-20
2. Phoenix Suns		36-37
3. Golde State W.		32-43
4. LA Clippers		29-45
5. Sacramento K.		21-52
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		57-17
2. Dallas M.		52-21
3. N.Orleans H.		42-32
4. Memphis G.		41-33
5. Houston R.		39-35

NCAA1

NBA Early Entry Candidates are Bluffing! - by Gregory Primus
How bad can school be?

Would a student athlete really sacrifice an education in order to watch their name mentioned (or not) on the pre-primetime draft show?

A wave of Juniors have begun to enter the 2011 NBA draft.

ESPN, CBS, and FOX crank out and amend the draft list each time a new name becomes eligible.

Players figure, 'why not get my name out there?'

Draft candidates have until May 8 to withdraw from the draft and hang onto their amateur status.

With the near certain lockout, these kids are going back to school, afraid that nobody will take care of them during the summer and beyond.

So, don't get carried away with the 'who's in, who's out' stuff.

Wake up everyone! This is a bluff!

Michigan State center Garrick Sherman is transferring - by Eurobasket News
Michigan State center Garrick Sherman (6'10''-C) is transferring.

The school made the announcement Monday. He averaged 12 minutes, three points and 2.6 rebounds a game last season as a sophomore.

Sherman says he believes it is time for a fresh start. Michigan State coach Tom Izzo says he met with every player after the season and Sherman later chose to leave after talking with his family.

Sherman averaged nearly 24 points and 16 rebounds two years ago as a senior at Kenton High School in Ohio.

He played in 70 games, starting 29, for the Spartans and averaged 2 1/2 points and two rebounds a game.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Michigan sophomore guard Darius Morris asks NBA undergraduate advisory committee for opinion - by Eurobasket News
Darius Morris (6'4''-G-91) is asking the NBA to gauge his game.

The 6-foot-4 sophomore guard led Michigan last season with 15 points and 6.7 assists per game. The NBA's undergraduate advisory committee will assess where he would be selected and tell him by April 18, a week before the deadline for underclassmen to declare themselves eligible for the June draft.

Michigan coach John Beilein insists this is not bad news.

'This is a really good issue to have,' Beilein said Monday. 'If we have these situations every year with young men that have the possibility of being drafted, most importantly having a career in the NBA, these are good things.'

Beilein said the general consensus is that underclassmen should stay in college if they're expected to be second round picks without guaranteed contracts.

'There are a lot of risks involved,' he said. 'We want what's best for him.'

Morris helped the surprising Wolverines finish tied for fourth in the Big Ten. They beat Tennessee in the NCAA tournament and Morris' shot to tie Duke at the end of regulation was just short.

'Within two days after the season was over, I called Darius into the office and suggested that we go through the undergraduate advisory committee and gather information,' Beilein said. He said it was his duty as a coach and told Morris he wanted him to hear 'from the right people.'

Michigan was 21-14 last season without a senior on the roster.

If the Wolverines lose Morris, their coach won't be turned off by players talented enough to skip seasons to start NBA careers.

'We're not looking for guys that just want to go to college and that's it and don't have aspirations of playing after they're done,' Beilein said.

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

Georgia Tech hires Brian Gregory - by Eurobasket News
Brian Gregory is ready to get started on rebuilding Georgia Tech's beleaguered basketball program.

He certainly wasted no time getting the attention of his new players.

'He's not a pushover,' freshman forward Jason Morris said Monday, shortly after Gregory met with the team and was introduced as the Yellow Jackets coach. 'He's going to get what he wants. Whatever it takes, [even] if he has to break you down to your lowest point to build you back up.'

Gregory coached at Dayton the past eight years before agreeing to take over at Georgia Tech, a program that fell on hard times after reaching the national championship game in 2004.

Paul Hewitt was fired shortly after the team wrapped up its fourth losing season in the past six years with an ugly loss in the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament.

The 44-year-old Gregory said all the tools are in place to restore the Yellow Jackets to national prominence, including a strong recruiting base, membership in a leading basketball league and a prominent history that he plans to tap into.

'We need to reconnect and re-engage with our former players,' he said. 'Their blood, sweat and tears made our program what it is today.'

But Gregory received a rather rude welcome from one of the current players when Iman Shumpert, the team's leading scorer, tweeted right in the middle of Gregory's introductory news conference that he would test his NBA options.

'Ok...I've decided to test the waters and put my name in the 2011 NBA Draft,' the junior wrote.

He hasn't hired an agent, meaning he could still return to Georgia Tech for his final year. Shumpert averaged 17.3 points a game this season.

'I reached this decision before meeting the new coach...i didn't know I was meeting him today,' Shumpert tweeted.

Gregory said he met with the entire team an hour before his news conference, but didn't get a chance to meet with anyone individually. He plans to sit down with Shumpert as soon as possible.

'It's in his best interests to do that with the junior year he had,' the new coach said, shrugging off any suggestion that Shumpert's tweet was poorly timed. 'He's a good enough kid and a smart enough kid and the program means enough to him that he'll do the right thing.'

Gregory received a six-year, $6-million contract to coach at Georgia Tech, where the athletic program is saddled with heavy debt and further burdened by a $7.2 million buyout that Hewitt is owed over the next five years.

Athletic director Dan Radakovich insisted money was not a limitation in his coaching search.

'The fit was more important than paying the large dollars,' he said. 'If there was someone we thought was a better fit, maybe we could have gone there. But I look at this as being a great individual for who we are at Georgia Tech and where we want to go.'

Gregory went 172-94 at Daytona. He guided the Flyers to a pair of NCAA appearances, reaching the second round in 2009 with an upset of West Virginia. Dayton also won the NIT in 2010, beating North Carolina in the championship game.

Dayton had only one losing season under Gregory and won at least 20 games five times. But the team is coming off a disappointing season, going 7-9 in the Atlantic 10 and 22-14 overall. The Flyers failed to reach the NCAA tournament for the second year in a row, losing to Richmond in the final of the A-10 tournament.

They settled for a bid to the NIT and were defeated by the College of Charleston 94-84 in the opening round.

'Sometimes you don't really know a coach until they've had some adversity and you see how they come back from it and how they handle it,' Radakovich said.

The Yellow Jackets sure had plenty of adversity. They went 13-18 this season and finished 11th in the ACC at 5-11 before losing to Virginia Tech 59-43 in the opening round of the conference tournament. Hewitt was fired two days later.

Making the rebuilding job more difficult for Gregory: Georgia Tech won't have a true home arena his first season. The school is building a new campus arena on the site of Alexander Memorial Coliseum. Until it opens in 2012, the Yellow Jackets will split home games between downtown Philips Arena and suburban Gwinnett Arena.

Gregory hopes to turn that into a positive.

'There's a great opportunity next year in terms of reaching out and maybe even getting to more fans,' he said.

There was speculation the Yellow Jackets would pursue one of the coaches who made a splash in this year's NCAA tournament, such as Richmond's Chris Mooney or VCU's Shaka Smart.

But Mooney signed a 10-year contract extension with the Spiders on Sunday night after leading them to the round of 16. Smart's team is still alive in the NCAA tournament, reaching the Final Four for the first time.

So the job goes to Gregory, who served as an assistant at Michigan State during two Final Four appearances, including the 2000 national championship.

One of Gregory's top priorities will be re-energizing Georgia Tech's fan base.

As the losing seasons piled up, home attendance dipped dramatically. The Yellow Jackets failed to sell out any games this season at the 9,100-seat arena, averaging just 6,095 per contest.

Georgia Tech made five NCAA tournament appearances under Hewitt but managed only one winning season in the ACC -- 9-7 during the Final Four year. His overall mark of 190-162 included a dismal 72-104 record in conference play.

The empty seats ended Hewitt's career, even though the lucrative contract he signed after the Final Four season gave him an automatic rollover and left the school with no choice but to pay the huge buyout.

Radakovich, whose predecessor negotiated the Hewitt contract, said there was no such rollover in Gregory's deal.

'You can look in there all you want,' the AD quipped. 'You won't find it.'

Courtesy of ESPN

Fredette leads AP All-America team - by Eurobasket News
Seniors dominated The Associated Press All-America team for the first time in five years.

Jimmer Fredette (6'2''-G) of BYU, Nolan Smith (6'2''-G-88) of Duke and Jajuan Johnson (6'10''-F/C-89) of Purdue, all seniors, were joined on the team Monday by junior Kemba Walker (6'1''-G-90) of Connecticut and freshman Jared Sullinger (6'9''-F) of Ohio State.

It's the most seniors since four made the 2006 team.

Fredette led the nation in scoring at 28.5 points per game while shooting 40.4 percent from 3-point range, a number more impressive because of the shots he lets fly from well behind the line.

He received all but one vote from the 65-member national media panel that selects the weekly Top 25. The voting was done before the NCAA tournament.

Fredette became one of the most popular players in recent memory as teams that lost to BYU were 'jimmered.'

'I think that it's a great accomplishment. Unbelievable,' BYU coach Dave Rose said. 'It shows how good his work ethic is. He's a player who has worked his way into an All-American. What he's meant to our program over the last four years it's really kind of immeasurable.'

He is BYU's first All-America since Danny Ainge in 1981.

'If you go out and play your game and have confidence in yourself, you can accomplish great things,' Fredette said. 'That's what I've always said in my head, and it's worked out.'

Smith, who received 61 votes, averaged 21.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists in leading the Blue Devils to the top of the polls for 10 weeks this season. He assumed most of the ball-handling for Duke after star freshman Kyrie Irving went down early in the season with a toe injury and was responsible for defending the other team's top perimeter player.

'It's been a long process for me, just getting better each year and improving,' Smith said. 'That's something I hope to share with younger kids coming up. If you put the time in and get better and better and then by the time your senior year hits, you'll start to accomplish some of those individual goals, and that's something that I've done.'

Smith is the fifth Duke player to be an All-America since 2000; two of them - Jason Williams and J.J. Redick - were selected twice.

Sullinger burst onto to the national scene by averaging 17.2 points and 10.1 rebounds while shooting 53.6 percent. The 6-foot-9 Sullinger, the seventh freshman All-America over the last five years, received 58 votes.

'I felt he was going to have a great impact not just on our program but on college basketball. The productivity he's had throughout the course of the season has really been incredible,' Buckeyes coach Thad Matta said. 'He so much fun to coach. As I've said, if I was starting a team, I'd select him to be our first player.'

Walker had a strong start to the season and then capped it with an incredible performance in leading the Huskies to five wins in as many days to win the Big East tournament. He averaged 23.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists and was the leader of one of the youngest teams in the country.

'It feels good, especially because I wasn't a preseason All-American,' said Walker, who received 51 votes. 'I just wanted to come into the season and try to win as many games as we could. From winning, it really helped me be a better player and just get more recognition.'

Huskies coach Jim Calhoun said the 6-1 Walker, Connecticut's first All-America since Emeka Okafor in 2004, was 'without a doubt the most important player to his team this season. I can't imagine where we would be without him.'

The 6-10 Johnson was Purdue's inside presence, averaging 20.5 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.3 blocks. He was the first Boilermaker chosen to the first team since Glenn Robinson in 1994. Johnson returned to Purdue after considering leaving for the NBA.

'Your senior year, you don't want to leave anything out there, and I definitely have no regrets. It worked out,' he said. 'The only thing I wanted to do that we didn't get done was go to the Final Four. Other than that, we got it all done.'

Marcus Morris of Kansas led the second team and was joined by Derrick Williams of Arizona, Ben Hansbrough of Notre Dame, Jordan Taylor of Wisconsin and Kawhi Leonard of San Diego State.

Fredette and Johnson were both on the preseason All-America team, along with Kyle Singler of Duke, Jacob Pullen of Kansas State and Harrison Barnes of North Carolina.

Courtesy of http://hosted2.ap.org

Drew enrolls at UCLA after leaving N. Carolina - by Eurobasket News
Point guard Larry Drew (6'2''-G-90) II has enrolled at UCLA after abruptly leaving North Carolina last month.

Coach Ben Howland said Drew attended classes on Monday, the first day of spring quarter. The junior will sit out next season because of NCAA rules and will have one season of eligibility remaining.

Drew left the Tar Heels in February, with coach Roy Williams saying he was shocked by the player's unexpected departure. Drew never explained his reasons for leaving, but he lost his starting job as point guard in mid-January.

Drew said in a statement it feels great to be back home in Los Angeles.

He is the son of Atlanta Hawks coach Larry Drew, who played 10 years in the NBA, including stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers.

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Honeycutt, Vucevic to leave UCLA for NBA draft - by Eurobasket News
UCLA forward Tyler Honeycutt (6'8''-F) is leaving school to enter the NBA draft, giving up his final two years of eligibility.

Honeycutt made the announcement in a conference call on Monday. He plans to sign with an agent, which would preclude him from returning to school.

Across town, Southern California junior Nikola Vucevic (6'10''-F-90) said last week he's leaving early, too.

Honeycutt, a 6-foot-8, 188-pounder from Los Angeles, averaged 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds for the Bruins (23-11), who lost to Florida in the third round of the NCAA tournament. Named to the All-Pac-10 team, he started and played in all but one of the Bruins' 34 games, and shot 41 percent from the floor and 74 percent from the free throw line.

UCLA didn't make the tournament in Honeycutt's freshman year, when he missed the first six games because of a stress fracture in his right tibia.

Honeycutt could have continued attending classes while mulling over where he might land in the June draft, but he wants to focus on basketball in his bid to be a lottery pick.

'I'm going all out for it,' he said. 'I'm pretty high right now and this year considered being a weak draft is a good reason to leave.'

The prospect of an NBA lockout doesn't bother him, either.

'I'm sure there's going to be one,' he said. 'No one is exactly sure how long.'

Honeycutt said the biggest criticism he's heard about himself is his slender frame, so he plans to improve his physical strength through daily workouts leading up to the draft.

'I'm pretty confident he'll go in the first round and hopefully go real high,' coach Ben Howland said. 'He's very, very athletic. He can block shots. He shoots the ball extremely well.'

Howland can barely recruit fast enough to replace the talent lured by the draft, but he wished Honeycutt the best.

'He did a great job for us these past two years. He's worked very hard and improved a lot,' Howland said. 'The real thing for Tyler is he feels it's best for him. Would we be a better team next year if he elected to come back? Absolutely.'

Honeycutt follows in the footsteps of such recent one-and-done Bruin stars as Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook and Jrue Holiday.

'The biggest X factor that would keep me from going to the draft was the team next year and how good we could be,' he said, adding, 'It was best for me to leave this year.'

Howland demurred when asked about the future plans of sophomore forward Reeves Nelson and junior guard Malcolm Lee, the Bruins' top two scorers, respectively.

Honeycutt said the only teammate he had spoken to was Lee.

'He just asked me what I've been thinking and trying to see if he's on the same path,' he said.

Howland said the Bruins would play three guards next season, with junior-to-be David Wear getting minutes at Honeycutt's old position. Wear and his twin brother, Travis, sat out this season after transferring from North Carolina.

Courtesy of www.greenwichtime.com

The NIT Final Four - a preview - by Eurobasket News
While the college basketball world is buzzing about next weekends NCAA tournament Final Four in Houston, we've got a Final Four of our own right here in our backyard, competing for the National Invitation Tournament championship.

It may lack the prestige of the Big Dance, but four quality teams have descended on the Big Apple this week -- three teams from BCS conferences, and a member of one of the best mid-major conferences in the country. They'll play on Tuesday and Thursday nights at Madison Square Garden, airing on ESPN2. And here's a preview of what you'll see:

THE FAVORITE

Alabama (24-11): The Crimson Tide are led by second-year coach Anthony Grant, who in his previous stop piloted Virginia Commonwealth to two NCAA tournaments and an NIT berth in three years, and who recruited several of the key players on this year's VCU team that's in the NCAA Final Four. Alabama finished with the second-best record in the SEC, winning the Western Division at 12-4. It also beat Kentucky, another NCAA Final Four participant, 68-66 in Tuscaloosa on Jan. 18. ESPN's resident bracketologist, Joe Lunardi, listed Alabama as the very first team under the cutline in his final bracket projection before the selection show.

Key Players: Alabama's top two scorers are a pair of forwards -- 6-foot-6 sophomore Tony Mitchell (6'6''-F) (15.5 ppg, 7.0 rpg, .526 FG percentage) and 6-foot-8 junior JaMychal Green (15.4 ppg, 7.7 rpg, .496 FG percentage). And then there's 6-foot-1 point guard Trevor Releford (11.0 ppg, 3.4 apg, 3.3 rpg), who made the All-SEC freshman team.

Key Stats: Alabama's strength is its defense -- and what's the old saying, defense wins championships? The Crimson Tide are third in the country in field-goal percenatage defense (38.3 percent), sixth in steals (9.4 per game) and seventh in points allowed per game (59.2) -- that's pretty impressive stuff.

THE CONTENDER

Colorado (24-13): Many people thought the Buffaloes belonged in the NCAA tournament instead of, say, VCU -- after all, they beat Kansas State three teams, and also had wins over Texas and Missouri. Colorado finished tied for fifth in the Big 12 with Mizzou at 8-8 under first-year coach Tad Boyle, who was hired after spending four seasons at Northern Colorado. The team's 24 total wins this season are the most in school history.

Key Players: Colorado has four players who average in double-figures in scoring, but the star is 6-foot-6 sophomore guard Alec Burks (6'6''-G-91) (20.5 ppg, 6.5 rpg), the No. 18 scorer in the country. Burks is one of only four players nationally to average more than 20 points, 6 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game this season. Beyond Burks, keep an eye on 6-foot-5 senior guard Cory Higgins (16.1 ppg), who has 1,998 career points, and needs 14 more in the NIT to top Richard Roby and become the school's all-time leading scorer.

Key Stats: It will be a severe contrast of styles when Colorado and Alabama face off in the second semifinal on Tuesday night, because Colorado is one of the best offensive teams in the country. The Buffaloes are ranked No. 11 in the nation in scoring (80.1 ppg), and No. 16 in field goal percentage (47.5). Even better, they're No. 5 from the charity stripe, knocking down 77.6 percent of their free throws.

THE SLEEPER

Washington State (22-12): The Cougars finished in sixth place in the Pac-10 this season at 9-9 under second-year coach Ken Bone, who replaced Tony Bennett after he departed for Virginia. Washington State beat their arch-rival and NCAA tournament-bound Washington twice, blew out Gonzaga by 22, and lost by just two to Elite Eight participant Arizona on Jan. 22

Key Players: Colorado's Burks isn't even the best scorer in the NIT Final Four -- that honor goes to Washington State's Klay Thompson (6'6''-G-90). The 6-foot-6 junior guard is averaging 22.0 points per game, leading the Pac-10 and ranking him ninth nationally. Thompson's 727 points this season are the most by a Pac-10 player since Eddie House scored 736 in 1999-2000. (Thompson was also arrested on March 4 and cited for marijuana possession, and suspended for the Cougars' regular-season finale against UCLA). Washington State's second-leading scorer is 6-foot-4 junior guard Faisal Aden, who averages 12.9 points per game off the bench.

Key Stats: Washington State, like Alabama, is also very good on the defensive end -- the Cougars are No. 18 in the country in field-goal percentage defense (39.6 percent), and No. 30 in 3-point field goal defense (31.4). But their numbers offensively are also good, scoring 73.7 points per game (No. 54 in country) and shooting 45.9 percent (No. 59).

THE LONGSHOT

Wichita State (27-8): The Shockers are the lone non-BCS team in the NIT Final Four, but they had an excellent season, finishing in second place in the always-tough Missouri Valley Conference at 14-4, one game behind Missouri State. Wichita State played two of this year's NCAA Final Four participants -- losing by just four to UConn in Maui in November, and losing by just one at home to VCU on BracketBusters weekend in February. Head coach Gregg Marshall, in his fourth year, led Winthrop to seven NCAA tournaments in nine years, before moving on to Wichita.

Key Players: Wichita State has just one player who averages in double-figures in scoring -- 6-foot-8 senior center J.T. Durley (6'8''-F/C-88). But even he only scores 11.4 points per game. The Shockers have about as balanced an attack as you'll ever see -- 10 players average at least 14 minutes per game, and no one averages more than 26 minutes. Eight players average at least six points per game.

Key Stats: The Shockers are No. 7 in the country in rebounding margin, outboarding opponents by an average of 7.9 per game -- that's outstanding. They're also a very good shooting team, making 46.7 percent from the field (No. 34 in country) and 74.6 percent from the foul line (No. 35).

PREDICTION

Alabama's defense is strong enough for the Crimson Tide to prevail over Colorado, while Klay Thompson has a big game in leading Washington State over Wichita State. And in the championship game on Thursday night, Alabama puts the shackles on Thompson, and Anthony Grant gets to hoist the NIT trophy, before watching his former players take on Butler in a fairy-tale NCAA national semifinal.

Courtesy of ESPN

NCAA Final Four preview: Most motley crew ever? - by Eurobasket News
Butler

Seed: Eight

NCAA Region: Southeast

Location: Indianapolis

Miles to Houston: 1,017

Founded: 1855

Enrollment: 4,400

Conference: Horizon League

Mascot: Bulldogs

Famous alums: Infamous leader of Jonestown, James Jones; author Kurt Vonnegut; former NFL kicker Garo Yepremian

Tournament appearances: 11

Final Fours: 2

NCAA titles: 0

Last NCAA title: None. Lost by 2 to Duke in last year's title game.

Last cheesy Jim Nantz signoff for this team's title: None yet, but you know he's dying to say, 'The Butler Did It!'

Head coach (age): Brad Stevens (34)

Brad Stevens fact: Courtesy of Pete Thamel of The New York Times, Stevens' 10 tourney wins in four years are as many as Bob Knight had in his final 15 years between Indiana and Texas Tech.

2010-11 record: 27-9

AP ranking: Unranked

Winning streak: 13

Last loss: 62-60, at Youngstown State on Feb. 3

Really? Butler did not play in the NCAA Tournament from 1962 to '97. Since then, it has reached the tournament 10 times.

Really, Part II: Butler's last nine tourney games have been decided by a total of 29 points.

How they reached the tournament: Won Horizon League tournament.

How they reached the Final Four: d. No. 9 Old Dominion 60-58; d. 1 Pitt 71-70; d. No. 4 Wisconsin 61-54; d. No. 2 Florida 74-71.

Famous current NBA player: Gordon Hayward, Jazz

Potential future pros: F Matt Howard and G Shelvin Mack are long shots, but will get looks.

Did you know? Butler is the first non-power-conference team to reach the Final Four in consecutive years since UNLV (out of the Big West) in 1990, '91. It is the first 'small school' to do so since San Francisco in '55 and '56.

Take the bad with the good: How much longer is Brad Stevens actually going to stay there?

Strengths: Experience. Every major contributor from last season's national runner-up team, but one, is back. Its best players have been its best players in the tournament, and they do just enough to win. No team in the tournament dictated a pace better than Butler.

Weaknesses: If the game gets fast, Butler is not equipped to run. And Matt Howard must stay out of foul trouble.

Starting five:

G Shelvin Mack (15.9 ppg., 3.6 apg.)

F Matt Howard (16.7 ppg., 7.7 rpg.)

C Andrew Smith (8.8 ppg., 5.4 rpg.)

G Shawn Vanzant (8.1 ppg., 42% 3s)

G Chase Stigall (3.9 ppg.)

Why they will win it all: At this point, how can you pick against them?

Virginia Commonwealth

Seed: Eleven

NCAA Region: Southwest

Location: Richmond, Va.

Miles to Houston: 1,345

Founded: 1838 (merger in 1968)

Enrollment: 32,000

Conference: Colonial Athletic Association

Mascot: Rams

Famous alums: Dr. Hunter 'Patch' Adams, who was the inspiration for the movie by the same name; author David Baldacci; actor Stephen Furst, who played Flounder in Animal House.

Tournament appearances: 10

Final Fours: 1

NCAA titles: 0

Last NCAA title: None

Last cheesy Jim Nantz signoff for this team's title: We have a feeling if the Rams win it expect something close to, 'Richmond, you are Ram tough!'

Head coach (age): Shaka Smart (33)

Shaka Smart fact: His first name is that of a Zulu tribe leader, and it means 'chief.'

2010-11 record: 29-11

AP ranking: Unranked

Winning streak: Five

Last loss: March 7, 70-65 vs. Old Dominion

Really? VCU may have been the very last team added to the tournament, and would not be here had the NCAA not expanded to this new 68-team field that included the 'last four in.'

Really, Part II: The Rams defeated schools from the Pac-10, Big East, Big Ten, ACC and Big 12 en route to this Final Four appearance.

How they reached the tournament: At large

How they reached the Final Four: d. No. 11 USC 59-46; d. No. 6 Georgetown 74-56, d. No. 3 Purdue 94-76, d. No. 10 Florida State 72-71; d. No. 1 Kansas 71-61.

Famous current NBA player: Larry Sanders, Bucks

Potential future pros: Maybe Bradford Burgess and Jamie Skeen will get looks.

Did you know? The last time an 11-seed reached the Final Four it was George Mason, also of the CAA.

Take the good with the bad: Has Shaka Smart put his house on the market yet?

Strengths: Running and shooting. The Rams are on one of the greatest shooting runs of any team in recent memory; they have made 53 of 109 from 3-point range in this tournament.

Weaknesses: Rebounding. This is not a big team, and the Rams were outrebounded by 17 against Florida State and 10 against Kansas. Not that it mattered. But getting 'big' interior points is not a gimme.

Starting five:

F Jamie Skeen (15.4 ppg., 7.4 rpg.)

C D.J. Haley (1.1 ppg., 1.6 rpg.)

G Joey Rodriguez (10.5 ppg., 5.1 apg.)

G Bradford Burgess (14.3 ppg., 43% 3 pt.)

G Ed Nixon (7.1 ppg., 2.6 rpg.)

Why they will win it all: To make the NCAA selection committee look like geniuses for adding them, and all of the talking heads like buffoons for ripping them.

Connecticut

Seed: Three

NCAA Region: West

Location: Storrs, Conn.

Miles to Houston: 1,779

Founded: 1881

Enrollment: 28,677

Conference: Big East

Mascot: Huskies

Famous alums: Actress Meg Ryan; current Saturday Night Live cast member Bobby Moynihan

Tournament appearances: 30

Final Fours: Four

NCAA titles: Two

Last NCAA title: 2004

Last cheesy Jim Nantz signoff for this team's title: 'Just when you think you can't, you can, and UCONN has won the national championship.'

Head coach (age): Jim Calhoun (68)

Jim Calhoun fact: He has four 30-win seasons, third most among active NCAA head coaches

2010-11 record: 30-9

AP ranking: 9th

Winning streak: Nine

Last loss: March 5, 70-67 vs. Notre Dame

Really? Before going on this stretch of winning nine consecutive games in 19 days, UConn had lost four of its last five regular-season games.

Really, Part II: UConn is 12-0 in games that are of the tournament variety (NCAA, Big East, Maui).

How they reached the tournament: Won Big East Conference tournament

How they reached the Final Four: d. No. 14 Bucknell 81-52; d. No. 6 Cincinnati 69-58; d. No. 2 San Diego State 74-67; d. No. 5 Arizona 65-63

Famous current NBA players: Ray Allen, Celtics; Rip Hamilton, Pistons

Potential future pros: F Jeremy Lamb and G Kemba Walker (6'1''-G-90) are two of the more likely prospects, but Walker's size (he's listed at 6-1) is going to scare teams off.

Did you know? UConn was picked to finish 10th in its conference in a preseason poll conducted by Big East coaches.

Take the good with the bad: There may not be a coach less likable than Jim Calhoun.

Strengths: Easily the single hottest team in the Final Four. Point guard Kemba Walker is the most important college player left. They are getting massive production from Walker and Jeremy Lamb.

Weaknesses: No one other than Lamb and Walker has stepped up lately. No one has needed to. If Walker has a bad game, can the Huskies win? He is playing heavy minutes and you'd think, eventually, it will catch up to him.

Starting five:

F Tyler Olander (1.5 ppg., 1.8 rpg.)

F Alex Oriakhi (9.6 ppg., 8.6 rpg.)

F Roscoe Smith (6.5 ppg., 5.2 rpg.)

G Jeremy Lamb (11.1 ppg., 4.3 rpg.)

G Kemba Walker (23.9 ppg., 4.5 apg.)

Why they will win it all: Because no one likes parity, and a UConn title will ensure the status quo for at least another year.

Kentucky

Seed: Four

NCAA Region: East

Location: Lexington, Ky.

Miles to Houston: 994

Founded: 1865

Enrollment: 27,951

Conference: Southeastern

Mascot: Wildcats

Famous alums: Actor Harry Dean Stanton; Texas Rangers pitcher Brandon Webb; actress Ashley Judd

Tournament appearances: 52

Final Fours: 14

NCAA titles: 7

Last NCAA title: 1998

Last cheesy Jim Nantz signoff for this team's title: Can't find one. But we're thinking he'll cash in, 'A Knight's Tale: Kentucky is the new national champion!' in honor of UK super frosh Brandon Knight.

Head coach (age): John Calipari (52)

John Calipari fact: This is the third team he has taken to a Final Four, after UMass and Memphis. Both previous schools landed on NCAA probation after he left for violations committed during his tenure. Because of those violations, the NCAA stripped each team's seasons from record books.

2010-11 record: 29-8

AP ranking: 11

Winning streak: 10

Last loss: Feb. 23 at Arkansas, 77-76 (OT)

Really? Kentucky senior center Josh Harrellson averages 14.8 points and 9 rebounds in this tournament; last season, he averaged 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds in four minutes for the year.

Really, Part II: This is what the world needs; Kentucky's 14 Final Fours are now the fourth most in NCAA history.

How they reached the tournament: Won Southeastern Conference tournament

How they reached the Final Four: d. 59-57; d. West Virginia 71-63; d. No. 1 Ohio State 62-60; d. No. 2 North Carolina 76-69

Famous current NBA players: John Wall, Wizards, and Rajon Rondo, Celtics

Potential future pros: G Brandon Knight and F Terrence Jones are lottery picks.

Did you know? Three of Kentucky's best players last season were taken in the top 14 picks of the '10 NBA Draft, including the No. 1 and No. 5 picks.

Take the good with the bad: The coach is his generation's Jerry Tarkanian.

Strengths: Tremendous ability from Jones and Knight are going to ensure UK can run with any team it plays. The difference has been Harrellson, who has morphed into a solid interior scorer and defender.

Weaknesses: They're young, and they are prone to young mistakes. You never know what kind of screwups they're capable of.

Starting five:

F Eloy Vargas (1.6 ppg., 2.0 rpg.)

F Terrence Jones (15.9 ppg., 8.7 rpg.)

F Josh Harrellson (7.5 ppg., 8.8 rpg.)

G Darius Miller (11.1 ppg., 4.6 rpg.)

G Brandon Knight (17.2 ppg., 4.2 apg.)

Why they will win it all: Because, eventually, John Calipari will win one of these things. Law of averages.

Courtesy of www.star-telegram.com

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NCAA3

NABC Division III Senior All-Star Game 2011 - by Eurobasket

Mitchell

Meehan

Massaquoi

Stephens

Powers

EAST ALL-STAR TEAM
4 Derek Mitchell (6'5''-F) of Ferrum College
5 Marvin Billups (6'5''-F/G) of Purchase College
20 Conor Meehan (6'4''-G) of Amherst College
23 Kai Massaquoi (6'2''-G) of Richard Stockton College
32 Brandon Stephens (6'3''-F-89) of Team France
32 Phillip Barera (6'6''-F/C) of Ithaca College
40 Andrew Powers (6'7''-C) of Gettysburg College
42 David Golembiowski (6'7''-F) of SUNYIT
52 Lester Prosper (6'8''-F/C) of SUNY-Old Westbury
33 Ian Franks (6'4''-G-88) of The College of Wooster
42 Troy Whittington (6'6''-C) of Williams College
Coach Phil Ness / Mike Turner

WEST ALL-STAR TEAM
5 Michael Taylor (6'4''-G-87) of Whitworth College
13 Alex Franz (6'1''-G-88) of St.Mary's, MD
21 Steve Djurickovic (6'3''-G-88) of Carthage College
25 Jacob Smith (6'6''-F) of University of Wisconsin at Superior
30 Danny Jones (6'6''-F) of Randolph-Macon College
32 Chris Saltzman (6'3''-F) of Penn State Behrend
33 Austin Meier (6'4''-F) of Milwaukee School of Engineering
50 Michael McClary (6'5''-C) of Olivet College
50 Carl Hipp (6'8''-C) of Hamline University
4 Tyler Nicolai (5'10''-G-89) of University of St.Thomas
33 Ryan Wholey (6'4''-F) of Middlebury College
Coach Jim Burson / Jim Nelson

D3hoops.com's All-America Awards - by Eurobasket

1st Team 2010-11

Taylor

Djurickovic

Franks

Jones

Whittington

Player of the Year: Michael Taylor (6'4''-G-87) of Whitworth
Rookie of the Year: D.J. Woodmore (6'3''-G) of Va.Wesleyan
Coach of the Year: Steve Fritz of St.Thomas

1st Team
G: Steve Djurickovic (6'3''-88) of Carthage
G: Michael Taylor (6'4''-87) of Whitworth
G: Ian Franks (6'4''-88) of Wooster
F: Jonathan Jones (6'5'') of Kean
C: Troy Whittington (6'6'') of Williams

2nd Team
G: Tyler Nicolai (5'10''-89) of St.Thomas
: Lamonte Thomas () of J.and Wales, RI
G: Eryk Watson (6'3'') of Maryville, TN
F: David Golembiowski (6'7'') of SUNYIT
C: Michael McClary (6'5'') of Olivet

3rd Team
G: James Wang (6'0'') of Williams
G: Tony Mane (6'0'') of Wisc.-La Cros.
F: Wes Smith (6'3'') of Wabash
F: Derek Mitchell (6'5'') of Ferrum
C: Carl Hipp (6'8'') of Hamline

Honorable Mention
James Jones () of Delaware Valley
Chris Sullivan () of Wittenberg
Marvin Billups (6'5''-F/G) of Purchase
Todd Phillips (6'3''-F/G) of E.Mennonite
Aaron Burtzel () of St.John's, MN

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PORTUGAL

Changes in the foreign athletes regulations - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
The Portuguese Basketball Federation (FPB) announced changes in the foreign athletes regulations.

According to the official statement, dated March 18, 2011, FPB has approved changes to the eligibility of non-Portuguese players. Thus, Article 184 of the Competitions Rules, now considers to be national players, 'those who are nationals of an EU country or countries with which the Portuguese State and the European Union has a cooperation agreement or reciprocity.'

With this change, they open the doors for community players to enter in the various national leagues, which was being pursued by several clubs (see the case of the Spanish athlete Beatriz Gonzalez, resident in Portugal and prevented from playing in Carnide Club since 2008).

As we remember, the former regulation considered national players only the ones who were eligible to play in the Portuguese National Team. This was in conflict with the laws of the European Union, as they were sending warnings to the Federations who have European athletes limitations, as it still happens in Spain.

Now its time to give attention and learn what the consequences for the League level in Portugal.

Arturo Alvarez left Barreirense - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Arturo Alvarez left the Barreirense/Cidade do Barreiro, as he told us, 'because I needed a break after many months without stopping, and , after the relegation, I felt it was time' to take a breath. For him, it was not easy to adapt 'to a new league and a team that was going through bad times, but has only' good words for the club 'and maintains the possibility of returning to Barreiro and the Portuguese League, which needs 'new blood, as great teams rely too heavily on veterans and foreign quality players. '
Now is also the time to prepare for the Olympic Qualifying with Paraguay National Team, which Alvarez will begin planning soon.

The Barreirense/Cidade do Barreiro direction accepted the reasons of Arturo Alvarez and did not put any obstacle to his departure. Jose Francisco , the legendary coach of youth Barreirense/Cidade do Barreiro teams, is the choosen to the coaching job.

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PUERTO RICO

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

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

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Alejandro CARMONA
  Mayaguez
  (194-G/F-83)
  Avg: 33

1. Carmona, Mayaguez	33.0
2. Vassallo, Guaynabo	30.0
3. Ayuso, Capitanes	27.0
4. Life, Humacao	26.0
5. Villegas, Coamo	21.5
6. Hatton, Bayamon	21.0
7. Alvarado, Capitanes	20.0
8. Sanchez, Santurce	20.0
9. Dyer, San German	19.0
10. Narvaez, Coamo	18.0

Rebounds Per Game

Manuel Antonio NARVAEZ
  Coamo
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 12.5

1. Narvaez, Coamo	12.5
2. Carmona, Mayaguez	11.0
3. Dyer, San German	11.0
4. Aubry, Capitanes	11.0
5. Lockhart, Quebradi.	9.0
6. Figueroa, Guaynabo	8.5
7. Lee, Bayamon	8.0
8. Traylor, Bayamon	7.0
9. Shannon, Bayamon	7.0
10. Latimer, Capitanes	7.0

Assists Per Game

Lewis CLINCH
  Isabela
  (191-G-87)
  Avg: 9

1. Clinch, Isabela	9.0
2. Copeland, San G.	8.0
3. Apodaca, Quebradillas	7.5
4. Pagan, Santurce	7.0
5. Garcia, Humacao	5.0
6. Dalmau, Bayamon	5.0
7. Hatton, Bayamon	5.0
8. Huertas, Quebradillas	5.0
9. Jimenez, Mayaguez	5.0
10. Vega, Coamo	4.0

Steals Per Game

Paul GRAHAM
  Mayaguez
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 4

1. Graham, Mayaguez	4.0
2. Clinch, Isabela	4.0
3. Apodaca, Quebradillas	3.5
4. Mojica, Bayamon	3.0
5. Carmona, Mayaguez	3.0
6. Pellot-Rosa, San G.	3.0
7. Vega, Coamo	2.5
8. Ayuso, Capitanes	2.0
9. Colon, Quebradillas	2.0
10. Edwards, Mayaguez	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Robert TRAYLOR
  Bayamon
  (204-F/C-77)
  Avg: 3

1. Traylor, Bayamon	3.0
2. Lee, Bayamon	3.0
3. Penn, Humacao	2.0
4. Freije, Coamo	2.0
5. Narvaez, Coamo	2.0
6. Colon, Quebradillas	1.0
7. Johnson, Isabela	1.0
8. Sanchez, Santurce	1.0
9. Rivera, Coamo	1.0
10. Chaney, Santurce	1.0

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QATAR

Rayyan edge Jaysh in Heir Apparent Cup - by Eurobasket News
Rayyan opened the Heir Apparent Cup with win. They defeated defending champions Jaysh 77:56 in Group A. Targuy Ngombo (196-F-89, agency: Court Side) scored 26 points and grabbed 16 boards to pace the QBF reigning champions. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, college: Iowa) added 20 points and 8 assists in the victory. Sheikh Ahmed answered with 16 points for Jaysh.
Qatar Club also came victorious in Group A. They held off Wakrah 71:48. Mike Cook (193-G/F-84, college: Pittsburgh) led the effort with 23 points. Doudou Seck (198-G/F-85, agency: Court Side) produced 12 points and 19 rebounds in the win. Soeljah Abdou answered with 16 points in defeat.
Sadd surrendered against Ahli 61:69. Maurice Hargrow (195-G-83, college: Minnesota) stepped up with 24 points for the winners. Michael Gardner provided 16 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for Ahli. Michael Bell (206-F-82, college: Florida Atlantic) replied with 22 points and 15 rebounds in defeat.
Gharrafah prevailed against Arabi 84:81 as Boney Watson (183-G, college: Sam Houston St.) notched 23 points and 16 boards. Alexander McLean (203-F-85, agency: Strategic Sports) provided 21 points and 10 rebounds in the winning effort. Arabi answered with 27 points from Ehison Sauda. Michael Cuffee (193-F-83, college: Middle Tenn.St.) provided 20 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.
Top two teams from each group will advance into semifinals.

Alexander McLean and Boney Watson join Gharrafah - by Eurobasket News
Gharrafah bolstered their roster prior to the start of Heir Apparent Cup. They landed Boney Watson (183-G, college: Sam Houston St.) and Alexander McLean (203-F-85, agency: Strategic Sports).
Boney Watson is coming back to Gharrafah after the guard played for the team in 2009/10 season. Boney Watson started the season in Kuwait with Al Kuwait SC. Previously Boney Watson had stints in Qatar, Jordan, Turkey and USBL.
Alexander McLean started the season in Gezira in Egypt. Last season Alexander McLean started with Libertad in Paraguay. Later the forward moved to La Union in Argentina. In December 2009 Alexander McLean joined Antranik Beirut before traveling to Qatar to play for Gharrafah. Alexander McLean also played for PBG Basket and participated in All-Star Game in Poland in 2009.

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RUSSIA

Krasnye Krylia release Janar Talts - by Eurobasket News
Krasnye Krylia have agreed on terms of contract termination with Janar Talts (205-C-83). The 27-year-old Estonian centre signed with Krasnye Krylia back in December. He tallied 0.7 points and 2.9 rebounds per game in Russian PBL. Janar Talts started the season in TU/Rock. His stats read 13.7 points and 6.0 boards per game in EuroChallenge. In EMKL the centre posted 12.7 points, 5.6 boards per appearance. In Baltic League he tallied 15.5 points, 6.9 boards and 1.7 assists. Janar Talts is the member of Estonian NT.

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SERBIA

Standings - A Liga

A Standings

SuperLeague
1. Hemofarm		2-0
2. Partizan		2-0
3. Radnicki		2-0
4. Beograd		1-1
5. Metalac		1-1
6. Mega Vizura		1-2
7. Crvena Zvezda		0-2
8. FMP		0-3
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.	20.5
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. Cantekin, Mega V.	7.6
3. Ljubicic, Metalac	7.5
4. Misanovic, Beograd	6.9
5. Jelovac, Mega V.	6.7
6. Majkic, Prolet.	6.6
7. Cubrilo, Sloga	6.4
8. Bozovic, 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.	4.7
6. Covic, FMP	4.4
7. Kocergin, Superfund	4.3
8. Atanackovic, Prolet.	4.3
9. Mitrovic, Beograd	4.3
10. Kovacevic, Novi Sad	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. Cantekin, Mega V.	1.0
6. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	0.9
7. Ljubojevic, Slobod.	0.8
8. Buric, Tamis	0.8
9. Dramicanin, Mega V.	0.7
10. Karalic, Crnokosa	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, Komarno	7.9
9. Johnson, Nova Ves	7.9
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. Moore, Nitra	2.5
3. Carter, Vahostav.	2.5
4. Nuber, Handlova	2.2
5. Jefferson, Nova Ves	2.2
6. Jones, Komarno	2.0
7. Sapp, Pezinok	2.0
8. Zavodny, Vahost.	1.8
9. Velcic, B.Bystrica	1.7
10. Zilik, Inter B.	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. McCoy, Svit	0.8
9. Lukjanec, Pezinok	0.8
10. Golian, Handlova	0.8

Prievidza Desperate, Sacking da Cruz - by Tomas Kottra
The second change of trainer in BC Prievidza came late in season, actually just before the last match, if lost. The best-of-three quarterfinals are now 0-2 for Spisska Nova Ves and that's the reason of sacking Antonio da Cruz .
Mondays training was led by wingman Martin Blaho (197-F-87) who actually has chance to be the unofficial trainer in game three of Quarterfinals because there is no possibility to make changes on the roster and signing a coach just before game which can be last gives no sense.
There is nothing to lose for BC Prievidza and maybe ...

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

SOUTH KOREA

Dongbu Promy Complete Sweep of LG Sakers - by Kevin Campigotto
Fourth seeded Wonju Dongbu Promy completed their first round sweep of Changwon LG Sakers by winning game three 76-68. The Promy will move on to play top seeded Sonic Boom KT in Busan on April fourth.

Promy forward Kim Joo-Sung (205-F/C-79) led all scorers with 28 points shooting a sizzling 81% and also grabbed 12 rebounds. He played all forty minutes and scored 15 of the Promys 28 first quarter points. Promy center Rod Benson (208-F/C-84, college: California) had an off game notching only 9 points and 6 rebounds. The Sakers were led by Ki Seung-Ho (194-F-85) with 20 points and import Jai Lewis (201-F-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: George Mason) with 19. Lewis started in place of usual starter Chris Alexander (216-C-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Iowa St.) who only saw ten and a half minutes of playing time. Sakers standout Greg Stevenson (198-F-78, agency: SportsTalent, college: Richmond) was held to 11 points and 7 rebounds despite playing all forty minutes.

The Promy seized the momentum early in the game finishing the first quarter with a 28-16 lead. The Promy led at halftime and seemed to be cruising to another win when the Sakers caught fire in the third quarter and cut the lead to two. However, the Sakers were unable to complete their comeback. Beginning the fourth quarter with only a three-point lead the Promy held on for the victory.

Both teams continued to struggle shooting beyond the arc with the Promy hitting only 3 of 13 (23%) and the Sakers hitting only 4 of 14 (29%).
The Sakers shot only 48% from the field while the Promy shot 67%.
Wonjus free throw woes continued as they were 11 for 18 from the line. For the first game in the series none of the key players on either team were in foul trouble.

The Promy next face Busan KT in the KBL Semi-Finals. The two teams split the regular season games 3-3 and both teams won two of the three road games and lost two of the three home games.

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

SPAIN

Lagun Aro part ways with Nikoloz Tskitishvili - by Eurobasket News
Lagun Aro split ways with Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83). The 27-year-old Georgian centre signed with the team at the start of the season. Nikoloz Tskitishvili tallied 5.3 points and 2.6 boards per game in ACB. Last season the centre tipped off in Panionios. His stats read 6.0 points per game but soon the Georgian player moved to Spain. He inked a contract with Fuenlabrada, where Nikoloz Tskitishvili produced 7.7 points and 2.7 boards per appearance.

2nd - by Peter Lorant
hy
We had two games on this week. On whednesday we lost at La Palma 66-64. We did not play really good,but we had option to win but La Palma scored a last second 3 points. We already know that we will finish the regular season on the 3rd place, so it was not so important to us.
We kind of lost our rhythm of our game, and it is very important to get it back. We have 3 games left, we have to have our confidance back and start the play off strong.
Last night we played against Lleida. We had a a great 3rd quarter and that was enough to win the game.
The life is very easy in Spain, the only problam might be that not so many people speaks english. But once you pick up a litle spanish it can be a lot of fun, they are very open. Soemtimes it looks like me that they never worried, they start to work late and on the afternoon they just go home to have a siesta. For me it is was very strange in the beginning but i got used to it very simple.

Ok thats for now see u soon

Orlando Magic would like to sign Fran Vazquez after this season, but there is a hurdle - by Eurobasket News
For almost six years, the Orlando Magic have attempted to convince talented Spanish basketball player Fran Vazquez (6'10''-C-83) to leave Europe and make the jump to the NBA.

But, now, just when it appears that the 6-foot-10 big man is receptive to joining the Magic, a possibly daunting hurdle looms. The potential of a prolonged work stoppage after the current season might prevent the long-awaited union between Vazquez and the Magic, at least for the 2011-12 season.

'In an ideal situation, we'd like to sign him,' said Otis Smith, the Magic's president of basketball operations.

'But with the CBA, it's not in his best interest to sign a contract if there is a work stoppage. What if? I'm not saying that there will be, but what if? Then he misses an opportunity to play and make money, at least for a while. That's the rub.'

The talks between the Magic and Vzquez never seem to be simple.

Courtesy of www.orlandosentinel.com

Standings - LEB Gold

LEB Gold Standings

1. Obradoiro		27-4
2. CB Murcia		27-4
3. Burgos		24-7
4. Leon		18-13
5. Girona		17-14
6. La Laguna		17-14
7. Navarra		16-15
8. Caceres		16-15
9. Breogan		15-16
10. La Palma		14-17
11. Melilla		14-17
12. Lleida		13-18
13. CB Tarragona		11-20
14. Clinicas Rincon		11-20
15. Huesca		11-20
16. Palencia		10-21
17. Alcazar		10-21
18. Ourense		8-23

LEB Gold Round 31: No surprise as #1 Obradoiro CAB defeats CB Tarragona 2017 - by Eurobasket News
The teams have now bigger motivation at this stage of Regular Season. Every game can be crucial and decide about teams' position at the end.

LEB Gold top team - Obradoiro CAB (27-4) managed to deliver another win on Sunday. This time they beat thirteenth ranked CB Tarragona 2017 (11-20) in Santoago de Comp 78-63. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 41-23 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Obradoiro CAB dominated on the defensive end, holding CB Tarragona 2017 to just 7 points in third quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to CB Tarragona 2017's 32. They outrebounded CB Tarragona 2017 35-23 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for the former international center Oriol Junyent (207-76) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. American swingman Deron Washington (201-85, college: Virginia Tech) helped adding 12 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side power forward Roger Fornas (202-82) responded with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Obradoiro CAB have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 27-4 record, which they share with CB Murcia. CB Tarragona 2017 lost third consecutive game. CB Tarragona 2017 at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with 20 games lost. They share it with Huesca and Clinicas Rincon. Obradoiro CAB is looking forward to face UB La Palma (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. CB Tarragona 2017 will play against Lobe Huesca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Caceres supposed to be also worth to mention about. Second ranked CB Murcia (27-4) played at the court of 5th ranked Caceres 2016 (16-15). CB Murcia defeated Caceres 2016 83-67. It was an exceptional evening for point guard Pedro Rivero (186-79) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 4 assists. Vitor Faverani accounted for 14 points and 7 rebounds. The former international forward Lucio Angulo (199-73) came up with 17 points and 5 rebounds for Caceres 2016 in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. CB Murcia keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Obradoiro. Caceres 2016 lost their sixth game in a row. Caceres 2016 at the other side dropped to the seventh place with 15 games lost. They share the position with Navarra. CB Murcia will play against Grupo Iruna Navarra (#7) in Pamplona in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Caceres 2016 will play on the road against Baloncesto Leon and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Melilla between Leche Rio Breogan and Melilla Baloncesto. Tenth ranked Leche Rio Breogan (15-16) got a very close victory on the road over 11th ranked Melilla Baloncesto (14-17). Leche Rio Breogan managed to escape with a 2-point win 69-67 in the fight for the ninth place. Eric Hicks fired 19 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Miguel Montanana produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) for lost side. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Leche Rio Breogan. They moved-up to ninth place. Melilla Baloncesto lost their fifth game in a row. Loser Melilla Baloncesto dropped to the tenth position with 17 games lost. They share it with La Palma. Leche Rio Breogan will meet bottom-ranked Ourense (#18) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Melilla Baloncesto will play against Ford Burgos (#3) and hope to secure a win.
Sixth ranked La Laguna (17-14) crushed at home 18th ranked Ourense (8-23) by 19 points 80-61, which is the biggest margin this round. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Ourense. Worth to mention a great performance of Fotios Lampropoulos who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. La Laguna moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Girona. Ourense at the other side stay at the bottom position with 23 games lost. La Laguna's next round opponent will be Palencia Baloncesto (#16) on the road which should be an easy win for them. Ourense will play against Leche Rio Breogan in Lugo.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 31: Lleida lost to Burgos on the opponent's court 68-80. Huesca unfortunately lost to Leon in a home game 86-94. La Palma recorded a loss to Girona on the road 67-76. Alcazar defeated Palencia on its own court 65-60. Clinicas Rincon was beaten by Navarra in Pamplona 64-54.

Burgos - Lleida 80-68

Very expected game when 12th ranked Lleida Basquet (13-18) was defeated on the road by third ranked Ford Burgos (24-7) 80-68. It looked good early as Lleida Basquet took an 2-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Ford Burgos had a 23-18 second period charge getting the lead and Lleida Basquet was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 68-80. Ford Burgos players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Hungarian power forward Peter Lorant (207-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 7 rebounds. Naturalized Brazilian forward Marcus Vinicius Toledo (203-86) contributed with 12 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Ford Burgos' coach Andreu Casadevall allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Ghanian guard Alhaji Mohammed (192-81, college: Louisville, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 28 points and guard Marc Rubio (186-88) added 15 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Lleida Basquet. Ford Burgos maintains third place with 24-7 record having just three points less than leader Obradoiro. Lleida Basquet at the other side keeps the twelfth position with 18 games lost. Ford Burgos' next round opponent will be Melilla Baloncesto (#11) at home and are hoping to win another game. Lleida Basquet will play against Girona FC.
Top scorers:
Burgos: P.Lorant 14+7reb, J.Tillman 12+6reb+1ast, M.Vinicius Toledo 12+6reb+2ast, M.Downs 8+5reb+3ast, M.Gomez 8+4reb+2ast, A.Martinez 8+2reb
Lleida: A.Mohammed 28+3reb+1ast, M.Rubio 15+5reb+1ast, D.Martin 7+7reb, D.Perez 6+2reb+7ast, A.Moncasi 6+2reb, D.Curtis 4+10reb

Huesca - Leon 86-94

Very predictable result when fourth ranked Baloncesto Leon (18-13) defeated on the road 15th ranked Lobe Huesca (11-20) 94-86. Baloncesto Leon made 16-of-17 charity shots (94.1 percent) during the game. Baloncesto Leon outrebounded Lobe Huesca 41-30 including 19 on the offensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Kahiem Seawright (203-86, college: Rhode Island, agency: Impact Basketball) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. American-Dominican guard Emmanuel Quezada (188-85, college: USF) contributed with 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American power forward Stevie Johnson (198-78, college: Iowa St.) answered with 18 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and Latvian power forward Rolands Freimanis (207-88, agency: Players Group) added 15 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Lobe Huesca. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Lobe Huesca's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Baloncesto Leon maintains fourth place with 18-13 record. Newly promoted Lobe Huesca dropped to the thirteenth position with 20 games lost. Baloncesto Leon's next round opponent will be Caceres 2016 (#8) at home. Lobe Huesca will play against CB Tarragona 2017 (#13) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Leon: K.Seawright 25+10reb+2ast, J.Garcia 23+3reb+1ast, E.Quezada 21+6reb+5ast, J.Alberto Gonzalez 14+5reb+5ast, A.Fontet 7+10reb+1ast, J.Mugica 2+3reb
Huesca: S.Johnson 18+5reb+6ast, H.Brown 16+1reb+2ast, R.Freimanis 15+9reb+1ast, A.Zengotitabengoa 12+5reb+3ast, J.Bonds 7+1reb, O.Herrero 7+2reb+1ast

Obradoiro - CB Tarragona 78-63

LEB Gold top team - Obradoiro CAB (27-4) managed to deliver another win on Sunday. This time they beat thirteenth ranked CB Tarragona 2017 (11-20) in Santoago de Comp 78-63. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 41-23 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Obradoiro CAB dominated on the defensive end, holding CB Tarragona 2017 to just 7 points in third quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to CB Tarragona 2017's 32. They outrebounded CB Tarragona 2017 35-23 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for the former international center Oriol Junyent (207-76) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. American swingman Deron Washington (201-85, college: Virginia Tech) helped adding 12 points and 7 rebounds. Four Obradoiro CAB players scored in double figures. At the losing side power forward Roger Fornas (202-82) responded with 14 points and 9 rebounds and American forward Alexander Franklin (196-88, college: Siena) scored 11 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Obradoiro CAB have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 27-4 record, which they share with CB Murcia. CB Tarragona 2017 lost third consecutive game. CB Tarragona 2017 at the other side keeps the thirteenth position with 20 games lost. They share it with Huesca and Clinicas Rincon. Obradoiro CAB is looking forward to face UB La Palma (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. CB Tarragona 2017 will play against Lobe Huesca and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Obradoiro: O.Junyent 15+10reb+2ast, A.Corbacho 13, L.Kendall 12+2reb+1ast, D.Washington 12+7reb+3ast, J.Bulfoni 12, B.Hopkins 6+3reb
CB Tarragona: R.Fornas 14+9reb, A.Franklin 11+4reb, R.Schraeder 8+2ast, A.Alba 6+4reb, J.Aguilar 5+1reb+1ast, M.Diouf 5

Girona - La Palma 76-67

Not a big story in a game when 9th ranked UB La Palma (14-17) was defeated on the road by seventh ranked Girona FC (17-14) 76-67. The hosts were already 14 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 25-20 UB La Palma's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 76-67 at the end of the game. Girona FC forced 19 UB La Palma turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Levi Rost (201-83, college: W.Michigan) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. Croatian power forward Mateo Kedzo (207-84) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Four Girona FC players scored in double figures. Girona FC's coach Ricard Casas allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Nigerian power forward Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-85, college: Illinois St., agency: N.E.T.) answered with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 12 rebounds and Dutch power forward Roeland Schaftenaar (211-88, college: Oregon St.) added 6 points and 14 rebounds in the effort for UB La Palma. The victory was the third consecutive win for Girona FC. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with La Laguna. UB La Palma at the other side dropped to the tenth position with 17 games lost. Girona FC's next round opponent will be Lleida Basquet (#12) on the road and are hoping to win another game. UB La Palma will play against the league's leader Obradoiro CAB in Santoago de Comp.
Top scorers:
Girona: L.Rost 18+13reb+1ast, M.Kedzo 15+4reb+2ast, S.Pino 14+3reb+1ast, J.Ortega 10+6reb+2ast, I.Ordin 9+2reb+3ast, A.Alarcon Lizaur 4+1reb
La Palma: C.Odiakosa 19+12reb+1ast, J.Bonhome 12+3ast, R.Martinez 11+1ast, S.Arrocha 8+5reb+1ast, R.Schaftenaar 6+14reb, C.Diaz 5+2ast

Alcazar - Palencia 65-60

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams in Alcazar where seventeenth ranked Fundacion Adepal (10-21) beat 16th ranked Palencia Baloncesto (10-21) 65-60. Palencia Baloncesto was ahead by 4 points at the halftime before a 30-21 second half run of Fundacion Adepal. Worth to mention a great performance of Trinidad and Tobago power forward Duane Virgil (205-74, college: Murray St.) who helped to win the game recording 18 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). American swingman Danny Brown (193-85, college: St.Louis) contributed with 11 points and 5 assists for the winners. Brown is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Fundacion Adepal's coach Javier Juarez allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. American swingman Roland Clark (196-81, college: Colorado St., agency: Alti Sport) answered with 18 points and the other American import power forward Adrian Moss (204-81, college: Florida) added 12 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Palencia Baloncesto. Fundacion Adepal moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with Palencia. Fundacion Adepal's next round opponent will be higher ranked Clinicas Rincon (#14) in Malaga and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Alcazar: D.Virgil 18+4reb, D.Brown 11+1reb+5ast, E.Almazan 10+5reb, J.Balmon 8+7reb+2ast, M.Uriz 7+4reb+2ast, A.Frutos 5+4reb+3ast
Palencia: R.Clark 18+4reb+1ast, A.Moss 12+5reb+1ast, T.Frost 7+2reb+1ast, E.San Epifanio 7+6reb+1ast, A.Navajas 6, S.Olmos 4+7reb

Navarra - Clinicas Rincon 64-54

There was no surprise in Pamplona where 14th ranked Clinicas Rincon (11-20) was defeated by eighth ranked Grupo Iruna Navarra (16-15) 64-54. The game was mostly controlled by Grupo Iruna Navarra. Clinicas Rincon was better in second period 20-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Inaki Narros (194-81) who helped to win the game recording 24 points and 5 steals. American-Swedish power forward Jason Blair (201-79, college: San Diego) contributed with 13 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Puerto Rican power forward Angel Garcia (210-88, college: Memphis) answered with 16 points and 9 rebounds and Senegalese center Fall El Hadji (206-76) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Clinicas Rincon. Clinicas Rincon's coach Francisco Alonso rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Grupo Iruna Navarra moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Caceres. Clinicas Rincon at the other side dropped to the thirteenth position with 20 games lost. Grupo Iruna Navarra's next round opponent will be league's second-placed CB Murcia on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Clinicas Rincon will play against Fundacion Adepal (#17) in Alcazar.
Top scorers:
Navarra: I.Narros 24+4reb+1ast, J.Blair 13+8reb+2ast, R.Bas 7+2reb, C.Lee 7+6reb, R.Joseph 6+7reb, J.Gonzalez 4+3reb+3ast
Clinicas Rincon: A.Garcia 16+9reb+2ast, F.El Hadji 10+6reb, J.Zamora 6+3reb, I.Martinez 5+2reb+1ast, A.Abrines 4, E.Diaz 4+3reb+1ast

Caceres - CB Murcia 67-83

The game in Caceres supposed to be also worth to mention about. Second ranked CB Murcia (27-4) played at the court of 5th ranked Caceres 2016 (16-15). CB Murcia defeated Caceres 2016 83-67. The game without a history. CB Murcia led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-20 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. CB Murcia forced 19 Caceres 2016 turnovers. It was an exceptional evening for point guard Pedro Rivero (186-79) who led the winners and scored 16 points and 4 assists. Brazilian center Vitor Faverani (211-88) accounted for 14 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. Four CB Murcia players scored in double figures. The former international forward Lucio Angulo (199-73) came up with 17 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Francisco Sanchez (201-79) added 15 points respectively for Caceres 2016 in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. CB Murcia keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Obradoiro. Caceres 2016 lost their sixth game in a row. Caceres 2016 at the other side dropped to the seventh place with 15 games lost. They share the position with Navarra. CB Murcia will play against Grupo Iruna Navarra (#7) in Pamplona in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Caceres 2016 will play on the road against Baloncesto Leon and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
CB Murcia: P.Rivero 16+3reb+4ast, V.Faverani 14+7reb+1ast, R.Morentin 12+4reb, M.Umeh 11+1reb, J.Ignacio Jasen 7+2reb+1ast, T.Gray 6+7reb+1ast
Caceres: L.Angulo 17+5reb+2ast, F.Sanchez 15+2reb+3ast, R.Humphrey 12+6reb, J.Angel Antelo 8+3reb+2ast, J.McCoy 5+3reb+1ast, J.Sanguino 4+1reb

Melilla - Breogan 67-69

A very close game took place in Melilla between Leche Rio Breogan and Melilla Baloncesto. Tenth ranked Leche Rio Breogan (15-16) got a very close victory on the road over 11th ranked Melilla Baloncesto (14-17). Leche Rio Breogan managed to escape with a 2-point win 69-67 in the fight for the ninth place. The guests trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 23-19 charge, which allowed them to win the game. American forward Eric Hicks (198-83, college: Cincinnati) fired 19 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Center Oliver Arteaga (211-83) chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds. Power forward Miguel Montanana (206-80) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and American-Austrian guard Jason Detrick (198-80, college: Oklahoma) added 14 points respectively for lost side. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Leche Rio Breogan. They moved-up to ninth place. Melilla Baloncesto lost their fifth game in a row. Loser Melilla Baloncesto dropped to the tenth position with 17 games lost. They share it with La Palma. Leche Rio Breogan will meet bottom-ranked Ourense (#18) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Melilla Baloncesto will play against Ford Burgos (#3) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Breogan: E.Hicks 19+8reb, J.Feldeine 11+2reb+2ast, O.Arteaga 11+6reb+2ast, J.Gomes 9+7reb+3ast, M.Mokongo 7+2reb+4ast, X.Forcada 4+2reb+3ast
Melilla: M.Montanana 16+11reb, O.Yebra 14+3reb+1ast, J.Detrick 14+3reb+2ast, J.Vega 9+3reb, J.Foote 9+7reb+1ast, J.Jimenez 2+3reb+5ast

La Laguna - Ourense 80-61

Sixth ranked La Laguna (17-14) crushed at home 18th ranked Ourense (8-23) by 19 points 80-61, which is the biggest margin this round. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Ourense. The game without a history. La Laguna led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of Greek forward Fotios Lampropoulos (206-83) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 7 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). The former international power forward Jesus Chagoyen (202-78) contributed with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Four La Laguna players scored in double figures. American-British point guard Rod Brown (186-78, college: W.Michigan) answered with 9 points and 4 assists and power forward Jose Manuel Coego (204-78) added 8 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Ourense. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. La Laguna moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Girona. Ourense at the other side stay at the bottom position with 23 games lost. La Laguna's next round opponent will be Palencia Baloncesto (#16) on the road which should be an easy win for them. Ourense will play against Leche Rio Breogan in Lugo.
Top scorers:
La Laguna: F.Lampropoulos 25+7reb+2ast, N.Richotti 15+6ast, J.Chagoyen 12+11reb+3ast, I.Yanez 10+3reb, J.Heras 6+2reb+2ast, I.Urreizti 5+1reb+2ast
Ourense: D.Fergerson 10+2reb, R.Brown 9+3reb+4ast, A.Ruiz de Galarreta 8+3reb, J.Manuel Coego 8+5reb, J.Antonio Vazquez 8+2reb+1ast, U.Onyekwe 8+2reb+2ast

Groceries & the Spanish Dryer - by Bayo Arigbon
As I write this 3rd Entry I realize Ive only been here for 26 days. I really wont feel comfortable for about 4 more days. Once im a month in Ill feel more like l Live here instead of like I just got here. We had a game last week, against the best team in the league CB Clavijo. Although we appeared to be outmatched on paper, we still competed, and at the end of the day thats all you can hope for. The coached allowed me more time than the game before, so I tried to make him believe that it was the right thing to do. Every practice weve had since that game has been on a higher level of intensity, which has me excited for the next game. Since Ive been here weve only played the top teams, which I am thankful for, because it means Im playing against the best competition in the league. There are only a few games left, so Im trying to make a name for myself in this short stay.
Aside from basketball things are looking up. I found a Spanish program to help me brush up on my Spanish speaking skills. So just being here along with the program will help me learn even faster. Not only that but I am real excited because Ive begin registration, research and filling out papers to start up my own Non-Profit Organization, Im excited for the opportunities that can be created in my community back home. (Portland, Oregon) Lastly I found a few good websites to watch movies, and stream live tv on the internet so thats been keeping me up to date on things back home. If you want to know just hit me up and Ill be glad to share Well until next time people!

In this weeks video I take a look at grocery shopping & the Spanish Dryer so be sure to check that out at www.hoopdreamdiares.tumblr.com

Stats Leaders - LEB Gold

Points Per Game

Ricardo GUILLEN
  La Laguna
  (205-F/C-76)
  Avg: 19.3

1. Guillen, La Laguna	19.3
2. Mohammed, Lleida	16.9
3. Palacios, La Palma	16.8
4. Detrick, Melilla	16.2
5. Seawright, Leon	15.6
6. Franklin, CB Tarra.	15.2
7. Feldeine, Breogan	15.2
8. Faverani, CB Mu.	14.9
9. Navarro, Girona	14.9
10. Narros, Navarra	14.2

Rebounds Per Game

Kiril WACHSMANN
  Alcazar
  (203-C/F-83)
  Avg: 9.4

1. Wachsmann, Alcazar	9.4
2. Curtis, Lleida	9.1
3. Sinanovic, Clinic.	8.0
4. Seawright, Leon	7.6
5. Guillen, La Laguna	7.4
6. Humphrey, Caceres	7.4
7. Chagoyen, La Laguna	7.3
8. Kale, Ourense	7.3
9. Arteaga, Breogan	7.1
10. Junyent, Obradoiro	7.1

Assists Per Game

Juan AGUILAR
  CB Tarragona
  (187-PG-88)
  Avg: 4.6

1. Aguilar, CB Tarra.	4.6
2. Rodriguez, Obrad.	4.3
3. Sabat, La Laguna	4.0
4. Brown, Ourense	3.5
5. Bernabe, Leon	3.4
6. Jimenez, Melilla	3.4
7. Rivero, CB Murcia	3.4
8. Cherry, Caceres	3.1
9. Lopez, Burgos	3.1
10. Garrido, Palencia	3.0

Steals Per Game

Andres RODRIGUEZ
  Obradoiro
  (182-PG-81)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Rodriguez, Obrad.	2.5
2. Bernabe, Leon	1.7
3. Castro, Burgos	1.6
4. Rost, Girona	1.6
5. Franklin, CB Tarra.	1.6
6. Alba, CB Tarragona	1.5
7. Palacios, La Palma	1.5
8. Rivero, CB Murcia	1.4
9. Toledo, Burgos	1.4
10. Johnson, Huesca	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Jeff FOOTE
  Melilla
  (212-C-88)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Foote, Melilla	1.9
2. Humphrey, Caceres	1.8
3. Fontet, Leon	1.3
4. Joseph, Navarra	1.2
5. Diouf, CB Tarragona	1.2
6. Sinanovic, Clinic.	1.2
7. Faverani, CB Mu.	1.1
8. McCoy, Caceres	1.0
9. Starosta, Ourense	0.9
10. Gray, CB Murcia	0.9

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

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	17.4
10. Klaric, Jamtland	16.3

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. Cipriano, Eco O.	7.5
8. Walker, Solna	7.4
9. Constantine, Solna	7.3
10. Salaam, Jamtland	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	4.2
8. Hellgren, Jamtland	4.1
9. Baeringsson, Sunds.	4.0
10. Gaidamaviciu., Norrko.	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. Smith, Uppsala	1.9
4. Rush, Sundsvall	1.9
5. Pleick, Eco Orebro	1.8
6. Hargrove, Jamtland	1.8
7. Hellgren, Jamtland	1.8
8. Baeringsson, Sunds.	1.8
9. McCoy, Boras	1.7
10. Brown, 08	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	1.2
7. Kohlmaier, Uppsala	1.1
8. Ayuba, Norrkoping	1.1
9. Walker, Solna	0.9
10. Galick, Sodertalje	0.8

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

SWITZERLAND

Stats Leaders LNA

Points Per Game

Mohammed ABUKAR
  Lugano Tigers
  (208-F-85)
  Avg: 22.1

1. Abukar, Lugano T.	22.1
2. Smith, Fribourg	20.9
3. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.	20.7
4. Glover, Boncourt	20.7
5. Byron, BBC Nyon	20.2
6. Polyblank, Geneve L.	20.1
7. Brown, Starwings	20.1
8. Popovich, SAV V.	20.0
9. Reid, Monthey	19.7
10. Martin, BBC Nyon	18.6

Rebounds Per Game

Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Daniels, BBC Nyon	12.2
2. Thompson, Starw.	10.6
3. Ofoegbu, SAM M.	10.5
4. Gugino, Boncourt	9.8
5. Reid, Monthey	9.2
6. Dos Santos, Bonco.	8.2
7. Sloan, Geneve Lions	8.1
8. Smith, Fribourg	7.7
9. Esterkamp, Fribo.	7.5
10. Hunte, BBC Nyon	7.3

Assists Per Game

Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo	7.4
2. Glover, Boncourt	6.4
3. Williams, Fribourg	6.1
4. Brown, Starwings	4.9
5. Draughan, Lugano T.	4.7
6. Angley, Lugano T.	4.5
7. Hollins, Starwings	4.4
8. Ross, Geneve Lions	4.1
9. Petkovic, Fribourg	4.1
10. Sharper, Monthey	4.1

Steals Per Game

Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo	3.9
2. Glover, Boncourt	3.7
3. Hunte, BBC Nyon	3.0
4. Gugino, Boncourt	2.6
5. Angley, Lugano T.	2.5
6. Efevberha, Lugano T.	2.5
7. Draughan, Lugano T.	2.5
8. Farokhmanesh, SAM M.	2.4
9. Smith, Fribourg	2.3
10. Louissaint, Month.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Cruz DANIELS
  BBC Nyon
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Daniels, BBC Nyon	3.3
2. Toure, Geneve Lions	2.2
3. Thompson, Starw.	1.9
4. Lukic, Zurich W.	1.7
5. Gugino, Boncourt	1.5
6. Sloan, Geneve Lions	1.3
7. Sanders, Lugano T.	0.9
8. Moris, Monthey	0.9
9. Aw, Geneve Lions	0.9
10. Vogt, Fribourg	0.9

LNA Round 27: Fribourg defeats SAV Vacallo in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in LNA just ended.

An interesting game for Fribourg (20-7) which hosted in Fribourg 4th placed SAV Vacallo (16-11). Second ranked Fribourg managed to get a 8-point victory 84-76. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of SAV Vacallo. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 27-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Fribourg made 23-of-26 free shots (88.5 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American forward Steve Smith (200-F-81, college: Iona) who led his team to a victory with 28 points and 7 rebounds. The former international guard Vladimir Buscaglia (197-80, college: his fellow American import) contributed with 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American guard Rickey Gibson (191-84, college: Stillman) answered with 18 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals for SAV Vacallo. Fribourg have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain second place with 20-7 record having four points less than leader Lugano Tigers. SAV Vacallo at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. They share it with Monthey.
LNA top team - Lugano Tigers (24-3) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Starwings (13-14) in Basel 88-63. It was a great evening for American-Nigerian guard Michael Efevberha (196-84, college: Cal.St. Northridge) who led his team to a victory scoring 22 points and 5 rebounds. Sean Finn helped adding 16 points and 11 rebounds. Lugano Tigers' coach Joe Whelton felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American guard Vernard Hollins (190-80, college: Wright St., agency: Warren Sports International) with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. Defending champion maintains first place with 24-3 record. Starwings at the other side keep the sixth position with 14 games lost.
The game between eighth ranked SAM Massagno (10-17) and 10th ranked Zurich Wildcats (1-26) in Massagno on Saturday ended with biggest points difference. SAM Massagno outscored guests from Zurich 94-60. It was a quality performance for John Ofoegbu who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 19 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). Lionel Bomayako came up with 22 points for Zurich Wildcats in the defeat. Zurich Wildcats' coach Riet Lareida gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. SAM Massagno maintains eighth place with 10-17 record. Zurich Wildcats lost their sixteenth game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 26 lost games.

In the last two games of round 27 Boncourt were smashed by Monthey on the road 77-46. BBC Nyon lost to Geneve Lions on its own court 82-86.

Monthey - Boncourt 77-46

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked Monthey (16-11) crushed at home 7th ranked Boncourt (12-15) 77-46 on Saturday. The game without a history. Monthey led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Monthey shot 21 for 34 from the free-throw line, while Boncourt only scored two points from the stripe. Monthey forced 19 Boncourt turnovers. It was an exceptional evening for American-Jamaican forward Ronald Yates (201-83, college: St.Peter's) who led the winners and scored 20 points and 6 rebounds. American guard John Sharper (186-84, college: San Diego St.) accounted for 18 points (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line) for the winning side. American center Tony Gugino (207-86, college: Hillsdale) came up with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds and Belgian forward Douglas Tshomba (201-83, college: Tusculum) added 4 points respectively for Boncourt in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Monthey moved-up to fourth place, which they share with SAV Vacallo. Loser Boncourt keeps the seventh position with 15 games lost.
Top scorers:
Monthey: R.Yates 20+6reb, J.Sharper 18+3reb+2ast, S.Moris 13+5reb+1ast, W.Molteni 8+6reb+1ast, C.Mafuta 7+2reb+1ast, S.Louissaint 5+5reb+3ast
Boncourt: T.Gugino 26+12reb+1ast, D.Tshomba 4+4reb+1ast, S.Glover 4+1reb+2ast, V.Pretre 2+1reb, C.Boesch 2, A.Herrmann 2+2reb+1ast

BBC Nyon - Geneve Lions 82-86

Very expected game when 9th ranked BBC Nyon (4-23) lost at home to third ranked Geneve Lions (19-8) 86-82 on Saturday. BBC Nyon was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 24-18 charge of Geneve Lions, which allowed them to win the game. They also forced 19 BBC Nyon turnovers and outrebounded them 39-28 including 27 on the defensive glass. Geneve Lions looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. It was an exceptional evening for American forward Marcus Sloan (205-82, college: TCU) who led the winners and scored 14 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. Congolese forward Max Kouguere (198-87) accounted for 22 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Four Geneve Lions players scored in double figures. American swingman Lester Hunte (196-88, college: Northwood Fl.) came up with 26 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and the other American import guard Chad Byron (188-87, college: Cumberlands) added 30 points respectively for BBC Nyon in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Geneve Lions maintains third place with 19-8 record having five points less than leader Lugano Tigers. BBC Nyon lost their fourth game in a row. They keep the ninth position with 23 games lost.
Top scorers:
Geneve Lions: M.Kouguere 22+5reb+3ast, J.Almanson 14+4reb+3ast, M.Sloan 14+9reb+7ast, J.Aw 11+4reb+1ast, B.Toure 9+8reb+1ast, J.Srzic 6+1reb+3ast
BBC Nyon: C.Byron 30+1reb+3ast, L.Hunte 26+8reb+4ast, C.Daniels 9+11reb+5ast, J.Meylan 7+3reb+1ast, X.Paredes 5+2reb+1ast, J.Senderos 5+2reb+2ast

Starwings - Lugano Tigers 63-88

LNA top team - Lugano Tigers (24-3) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Starwings (13-14) in Basel 88-63. The game without a history. Lugano Tigers 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 Starwings' 36. It was a great evening for American-Nigerian guard Michael Efevberha (196-84, college: Cal.St. Northridge) who led his team to a victory scoring 22 points and 5 rebounds. American center Sean Finn (212-82, college: Dayton) helped adding 16 points and 11 rebounds. Four Lugano Tigers players scored in double figures. Lugano Tigers' coach Joe Whelton felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was American guard Vernard Hollins (190-80, college: Wright St., agency: Warren Sports International) with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and the other American import guard Tony Brown (193-79, college: Arkansas St.) scored 21 points and 5 assists. Defending champion maintains first place with 24-3 record. Starwings at the other side keep the sixth position with 14 games lost.
Top scorers:
Lugano Tigers: M.Efevberha 22+5reb+1ast, S.Finn 16+11reb, M.Schneiderman 14+10reb+2ast, D.Mladjan 11+4reb+2ast, B.Angley 10+2reb+2ast, E.Draughan 7+5reb+6ast
Starwings: V.Hollins 22+5reb+6ast, T.Brown 21+4reb+5ast, A.Thompson 5+21reb+1ast, M.Petkovic 5+3reb+4ast, M.Hett 4+1reb+2ast, N.Matter 4+6reb

SAM Massagno - Zurich Wildcats 94-60

The game between eighth ranked SAM Massagno (10-17) and 10th ranked Zurich Wildcats (1-26) in Massagno on Saturday ended with biggest points difference. SAM Massagno outscored guests from Zurich 94-60. The game without a history. SAM Massagno 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 Zurich Wildcats' 30. They outrebounded Zurich Wildcats 42-25 including a 28-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. SAM Massagno looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. It was a quality performance for American center John Ofoegbu (206-84, college: Idaho St.) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 19 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). His fellow American import guard Ali Farokhmanesh (183-88, college: N.Iowa, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) accounted for 22 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Five SAM Massagno players scored in double figures. Central African-French guard Lionel Bomayako (196-78, college: Fairleigh Dickinson, agency: Court Side) came up with 22 points and swingman Michael Jacobsen (197-88) added 7 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Zurich Wildcats in the defeat. Zurich Wildcats' coach Riet Lareida gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. SAM Massagno maintains eighth place with 10-17 record. Zurich Wildcats lost their sixteenth game in a row. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 26 lost games.
Top scorers:
SAM Massagno: J.Ofoegbu 26+19reb+1ast, A.Farokhmanesh 22+6reb+8ast, A.Hawkins 20+4reb+4ast, B.Johnson 12+2reb+1ast, T.Murati 10+2reb+5ast, V.Faessler 4+4reb
Zurich Wildcats: L.Bomayako 22+3ast, S.Bernet 9+2reb+2ast, M.Jacobsen 7+6reb+2ast, Z.Zivanovic 5+5reb+1ast, L.Marchand 5+1reb+3ast, L.Waldesbuehl 5+4reb+1ast

Fribourg - SAV Vacallo 84-76

An interesting game for Fribourg (20-7) which hosted in Fribourg 4th placed SAV Vacallo (16-11). Second ranked Fribourg managed to get a 8-point victory 84-76. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of SAV Vacallo. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 27-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Fribourg made 23-of-26 free shots (88.5 percent) during the game. It was a good game for American forward Steve Smith (200-81, college: Iona) who led his team to a victory with 28 points and 7 rebounds. The former international guard Vladimir Buscaglia (197-80, college: his fellow American import) contributed with 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American guard Rickey Gibson (191-84, college: Stillman) answered with 18 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 7 steals and the other American import forward Kevyn Popovich (196-85, college: SE Louisiana) added 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for SAV Vacallo. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Fribourg have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain second place with 20-7 record having four points less than leader Lugano Tigers. SAV Vacallo at the other side keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. They share it with Monthey.
Top scorers:
Fribourg: S.Smith 28+7reb, J.Kazadi 15+3reb+2ast, V.Buscaglia 14+7reb+5ast, O.Vogt 12+7reb+2ast, T.Quidome 6+5reb+3ast, T.Williams 6+2ast
SAV Vacallo: R.Gibson 18+6reb+6ast, K.Popovich 15+6reb+5ast, N.Dacevic 15+4reb, J.Rahier 11+2reb+3ast, M.Mihajlovic 8+6reb, S.Smiljanic 6+1ast

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

SYRIA

Jalaa lose in Beirut - by Eurobasket News
Riyadi - Jalaa 101:85

Riyadi did not allow Jalaa to celebrate victory at the WABA League Final yesterday. The Lebanese powerhouse celebrated a comfortable home win to cut the deficit at 1-2 in the best-of-five series. Nathanel Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) erupted for 31 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge.
The teams traded baskets throughout intense first quarter. The hosts grabbed a narrow 25:23 lead after ten minutes but things changed in the second term. Riyadi went on a 14:0 run midway through the period to clear off. The home team arrived at halftime up by 20 points 58:38. Jalaa stopped the rot but could not challenge Riyadi. The hosts maintained the pressure having a 19-point lead with one quarter to go. Jalaa never got within striking distance and had to surrender at the end. Loren Woods (218-C-78, college: Arizona) provided 25 points and 14 boards in the victory. Mohamad Ibrahim (192-G-83) added 13 points for Riyadi. Michel Maadanli (195-G-81) produced 29 points for Jalaa. Ahmad Ishak (198-F-86) finished with 16 points in the loss.

Riyadi: Nathanel Johnson 31, Loren Woods 25+14 boards, Mohamad Ibrahim 13
Jalaa: Michel Maadanli 29, Ahmad Ishak 16

It's your TURN!!! - by Kenyon Gamble
What up people???

Its been a while since my last post, and I know you all look forward to such raw and uncut stories about the life of a professional basketball player. As long as you can accept the bad, with the great, your career can last until you decide to stop running up and down the court, unless you sustain a career ending injury. Those who stay healthy are truly blessed, and usually have his/her workout regimen to thank. As long as you take care of your body, by keeping it strong and conditioned, it will take care of you, though sometimes, you just end up having some freak accident on the court, and its just your 'turn'.

That type of bad luck prevented me from having a great opportunity with a great team, in a great country. After my teams proved to be dominant in the Chicago Summer League Circuit, for yet another year (making it to the Championship game of 3 different tournaments); and many vigorous workouts in the weight room, and on the court, my agent had a great opportunity lined up for me in Kuwait with Al Al Jahraa, with Felton Sealey . On my fifth day in the country (September 2010), I went down, and I went down HARD.
The coach was conducting another great practice as usual, and at this point of the practice, it was more about timing and execution, in a mock setting. That means there was no real defense to be played; the defensive players were on the court to merely take up space, and accurately show where each defender would be as the offensive play was executed. The play started off very basic. The guard was supposed to start in the short corner (a few steps from the basket along the baseline), run under the basket, and run straight up the middle to the top of the key (the point directly in front of the basket, at the 3 point line), sort of like he was making an L. Im on the floor as the mock defense, and Im at the corner of his L cut. I get in my defensive stance as I defend my player, and this wild hog runs a million miles an hour, with no sense of direction and slams his whole body into my inner knee. Now mind you, he is about 5 feet nothing, and I am 7 feet, so his shoulder was the first part of his body to come crashing into me, followed by the rest of this short, compact frame. Needless to say, I hit the floor in agonizing pain, and couldn't believe that this kid took me out. Now, I dont believe it was intentional by any means, but if the rules were being followed, this duck would not have taken me out.

Regardless, of it being intentional or not, I was out of the game of basketball. Al Jahraa and I hadn't completed the deal yet, so there was nothing owed on either end. Al Jahraa was such a great club that they took care of everything financially, as far as evaluating (MRI, x-ray) and treatment. Far different from anything I experienced with a former club whose name I wont mention (I'm sure Ive said enough about my former clubs management and how useless they were). With the season starting the following week, we had no option, but to part ways. I was elated to meet such a professional club, and such a great and knowledgeable coach, Felton Sealey . If I ever got the chance to work with either of them again, I'd go into it knowing that all things will be done as business should be done.

Because of the injury, I had to come back to America and rehab. After 6 weeks, I was back to 100%, and I was cleared by the specialists, and all of the sports doctors, to compete on the court again. I was elated, and when I received such great news, I got right back to doing what I loved to do. A couple days after receiving the news, I got a call from Barry Bradford, and he extended an invitation to come and compete with the Kankakee County Soldiers of the IBL, and my team ended up winning the Championship! God continues to bless me with so many opportunities, and I am truly grateful for them all. More details on our route to the title coming soon.

'Til next time people...RIOCI...Thanks for tuning in for another chapter in my basketball book, and thanks to Eurobasket.com for giving me an opportunity to share my story with the world!

This blog is maintained by Kenyon Gamble (212-C-82, college: Tuskegee).
Feel free to comment and/or email me personally at kkg@kenyongamble.com
www.KenyonGamble.com

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TANZANIA

Top Army Teams Clash in RBA League Final - by Eurobasket News
Dar es Salaam For Dar es Salaam basketball fans, the National Indoor Stadium is a place to go on Sunday as it hosts the RBA League final between ABC and JKT.Acting Dar es Salaam regional commissioner Sadick Meck Sadiq will be the chief guest at what promises to be a mouth-watering final.

The anxiously awaited duel will be preceded by women's RBA final pitting traditional foes Jeshi Stars against JKT Stars.ABC booked a place in the final at the expense of Pazi while JKT cruised through after overcoming pre-tournament favourites Vijana in the second semi-final at the same venue last weekend.

Dar es Salaam Basketball (DB) official Mbaga Mwamboma said yesterday that preparations for the two finals were on course.

'The women's final between Jeshi Stars and JKT Stars will start at 2pm while the match of the day between ABC and JKT will start two hours later,' Mwamboma said.The day will also see women's teams Police and Tanzania Prisons face off in the third place playoff. The match will start at 10am at the same venue.

At noon, falling giants Vijana, popularly known as City Bulls, will take on their arch-rivals Pazi in the men's third place play-off.

'I am optimistic that those who will turn up at the National Indoor Stadium will have lots of fun because the teams lined up for both men and women's finals boast formidable squads,' Mwamboma said.

The third place playoff matches are also expected to be exciting because Vijana and Pazi, once rated the country's big guns, command huge following in the city.The DB official admitted that they faced various hitches in organising this year's league, one of them being unwillingness of sponsors.

'We are happy that the league is now inching towards the home stretch. We were afraid that lack of sponsorship could deny it the excitement and competitive edge it deserves,' he said.He said they have set aside trophies and medals for the winners of Sunday's finals and third place playoffs.
Courtesy of: The Citizen
By Majuto Omary

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Kemba Walker Picks Up AP First Team All-America Honors - by David Edole
STORRS, Conn. - It was announced by the Associate Press that UConn junior guard Kemba Walker (185-G-90) (Bronx, N.Y.) has been named a First Team All-American. Walker will lead UConn against Kentucky in the Final Four on Saturday, April 2 at 8:49 p.m. Eastern time. The game will be televised by CBS.

This marks the third All-America Team that Walker has been included on after being named First Team All-American by the U.S. Basketball Writers Association and Sporting News magazine.

Walker is one of only two players (Norris Cole - Cleveland State) in the NCAA to average 20 points, five rebounds and four assists this season. The Bronx, N.Y. native has led UConn to a 30-9 record this season including championships in the BIG EAST Tournament and the Maui Invitational.

Walker has filled the stat sheet averaging 23.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game. The Bronx native set a new UConn single-season record with 931 points this year.

Among other records broken during Walker's outstanding season include; Minutes total and per game (1,466 - 37.6 mpg), free throws attempted (302), free throws made (247) and field goals attempted (705). Walker also ranks second all-time with 305 field goals made, fourth all-time in single-season scoring average (23.9) and second in UConn history with 490 career free throws. He ranks seventh all-time with 1,749 career points.

Walker is also a finalist for the Naismith Award, presented to the nation's top player. AT&T wireless customers -- and sports fans on other wireless networks -- will be able to text their votes for the player of their choice by texting VOTE to 345345. Fans will be eligible to cast their vote for the winner until 11:59 p.m. EDT on Saturday, April 2, 2011. AT&T is making the voting open to other wireless carriers, allowing even more fans to participate. Other wireless carriers must opt-in for their subscribers to participate. Standard messaging rates apply. Fans are allowed one vote per 24-hour period.

The other major awards in the college basketball season that Walker is nominated for will be announced this weekend including the Cousy Award (Monday, April 4) presented to the nation's top point guard, the NABC All-Americans (Saturday, April 2) and the Wooden Award (April 8-10).

En route to the Final Four, UConn defeated No. 14 Bucknell in the NCAA Second Round, 81-52, before advancing past No. 6 Cincinnati in the NCAA Third Round, 69-58. UConn then earned a trip to the Final Four with a 74-67 victory over No. 2 San Diego State in the Sweet 16 and 65-63 result over Arizona in the Elite Eight.

AP All-America Teams
First Team:
G Kemba Walker, Jr. - Connecticut
G Nolan Smith, Sr. - Duke
G Jimmer Fredette, Sr. - BYU - AP Player of the Year
F Jared Sullinger, Fr. - Ohio State
F/C JaJuan Johnson, Sr. - Purdue
Second Team:
G Ben Hansbrough, Sr. - Notre Dame
G Jordan Taylor, Jr. - Wisconsin
F Marcus Morris, Jr. - Kansas
F Kawhi Leonard, So. - San Diego State
F Derrick Williams, So. - Arizona
Third Team:
G Jacob Pullen, Sr. - Kansas State
G Tu Holloway, Jr. - Xavier
G/F Marshon Brooks, Sr. - Providence
G/F Jordan Hamilton, So. - Texas
F/C Kenneth Faried, Sr. - Morehead State

BCB releases official schedule- March Madness Tournament - by David Edole
The 2nd annual JV March Madness Basketball tournament hosted by Bertha C. Boschulte middle school is scheduled to start on Friday at 12:30 pm at the Blazer's Ranch. The first game of the tournament between Eudora Kean Rays and the host team will be played in front of 600 screaming Blazers and will be hosted by the great Rashidi Clenance. You dont want to miss out on what Rash on the radio has in store for the student body. Don't forget $3.00 get you in to the tournament daily as BCB is the place to be for middle school hoops. Don't forget we are an A.Y. P. school...

Boys Participants: Bertha C. Boschulte, Addelita Cancryn, Eudora Kean, Educational Complex, Elena Christian, Arthur Richards, John H. Woodson
Girls Participants: Bertha C. Boschulte, Addelita Cancryn, Central High, Educational Complex, Elena Christian, John H. Woodson

BCB March Madness Basketball Schedule
Friday April 1, 2011
12:30pm Game 1: BCB vs. Eudora Kean (boys)
1:30 pm Game 1: BCB vs. Elena Christian (girls)
2:30 pm Game 2: Addelita Cancryn vs. Elena Christian (boys)
3:30 pm Game 2: Central High vs. John H. Woodson (girls)
4:30 pm Game 3: John H. Woodson vs. Arthur A. Richards (boys)
5:30 pm Game 3: Game 1 vs. Educational Complex (girls)
6:30 pm Game 4: Game1 winner vs. Educational Complex (boys)
7:30 pm Game 4: Addelita Cancryn vs. Game 2 winner (girls)
8:30 pm Game 5: Game 2 winner vs. Game 3 winner (boys)

Saturday April 2, 2011
11:00 am Game 5: Loser 2 vs. Loser 3 (girls)
12:00 pm Game 6: Loser 2 vs. Loser 3 (boys)
1:00 pm Game 7: Loser 1 vs. Loser 5 (boys)
2:00 pm Game 6: Loser 1 vs. Loser 4 (girls)
3:00 pm Game 7: Winner 4 vs. Winner 3 (girls)
4:00 pm Game 8: Loser 4 vs. Winner 6 (boys
5:00 pm Game 8: Winner 5 vs. Winner 6 (girls)
6:00 pm Game 9: Winner 5 vs. Winner 4 (boys)
7:00 pm Game 10: Winner 7 vs. Winner 8 (boys
8:00 pm Game 9: Loser 7 vs. Winner 8 (girls)
9:00 pm Game11: Loser 9 vs. Winner 10 (boys)

Sunday April 3, 2011
Game 21: Championship girls game 12:00 pm
Game 22: Championship boys game 1:00 pm

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UBA

Al Jaysh Army SC (Qatar) signs Lamar Grimes - by UBA media

David Walls Reports:
March 29, 2011:

Al Jaysh Army SC added to their roster 27-year old American guard Lamar Grimes (6'0''-G-83, college: Indiana St.). Grimes was signed by the Tennessee Dragons in February and has served as it's top guard. Grimes is averaging an impressive 12.5ppg, 8.0apg and 2.5 steals in 10 games. Lamar Grimes is one of the top guards in the UBA and was ranked in the top 10 in assists.

Grimes best performance came last weekend versus the GIE Morrow Disciples. He tailed 15 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. He has played all over the world (Germany, Romania, China and Qatar) and is expected to play at a high level for the Al Jaysh Army SC.

This will be the Dragons 5th player signed overseas this season. Steve Dolan and the Tennessee Dragons are becoming a UBA power.

Standings

UBA Standings

Eastern
1. Southeast H.		12-2
2. Cleveland V.		11-3
3. Columbus C.		7-8
4. Colonial F.		3-10
5. NE Air Soul		1-14
Southern
1. S.Generals		30-5
2. GIE Morrow D.		25-12
3. Atlanta A.		13-10
4. Georgia L.		10-15
5. St.Mountain H.		3-18
Western
1. C.Texas C.		17-2
2. Tennessee D.		17-10
3. DFW Warriors		10-9
4. Norman E.		9-8
5. Austin K.		8-8
D-League
1. Irie M.		0-0
2. Proline		0-0
3. Team Japan		0-0
Travel Teams
1. Columbus Crush		9-2
2. Dallas Star		6-14
3. Houston X.		5-0
4. Nashville B.		0-10
5. Oklahoma S.		0-14
6. Metro Atlanta		0-17

URBL Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jermaine BARNES
(194-G/F-82)
Avg: 27.8

1. Barnes, GIE M.	27.8
2. Barrett, S.Generals	26.6
3. Sloan, S.Generals	25.3
4. Perkins, Austin K.	24.1
5. Kearse, Dallas S.	23.1
6. Holmes, Atlanta A.	22.8
7. Allison, Norman E.	22.8
8. Grismore, C.Tex.	21.4
9. James, DFW W.	21.4
10. Clark, St.Mount.	21.1

Rebounds Per Game

Sylvester MORGAN
  USA
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 13.1

1. Morgan, GIE M.	13.1
2. Dailey, GIE M.	12.2
3. Williams, Norman E.	11.7
4. Hall, St.Mount.	10.8
5. Hill, DFW Warriors	10.2
6. Akpele, S.Generals	10.1
7. Holmes, Atlanta A.	9.9
8. Davis, Dallas Stars	9.6
9. Shewmake, Tennesse.	9.6
10. Wilson, Tennesse.	9.6

Assists Per Game

DeAndre BRAY
(168-G-85)
Avg: 10.1

1. Bray, S.Generals	10.1
2. De La Cruz, S.Gen.	9.0
3. Haskins, C.Texas C.	8.4
4. Williams, GIE M.	8.3
5. Belton, GIE M.	7.9
6. Belton, Atlanta A.	7.9
7. Douglas, DFW W.	6.8
8. Beaulah, GIE M.	6.8
9. Taylor, Tennesse.	6.0
10. Brown, Norman E.	5.8

Steals Per Game

Freddie WILLIAMS
(188-G-87)
Avg: 3.5

1. Williams, S.Generals	3.5
2. Williams, GIE M.	3.3
3. Kearse, Dallas S.	3.2
4. Bray, S.Generals	2.9
5. Haskins, C.Texas C.	2.9
6. Brown, Norman E.	2.8
7. Taylor, Tennesse.	2.7
8. Barnes, GIE M.	2.5
9. Snell, Atlanta A.	2.4
10. Sloan, S.Generals	2.2

Blocks Per Game

Demario WILLIAMS
(216-C-85)
Avg: 6.2

1. Williams, GIE M.	6.2
2. Williams, Norman E.	5.7
3. Moore, S.Generals	5.5
4. Morgan, GIE M.	5.0
5. Davis, Dallas Stars	3.2
6. Hall, St.Mount.	2.9
7. Wilson, Tennesse.	2.8
8. Hill, DFW Warriors	2.5
9. Dailey, GIE M.	2.5
10. Stokes, Dallas S.	2.4

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UKRAINE

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Budivelnyk		32-10
2. BC Donetsk		32-11
3. Azovmash		26-16
4. Hoverla		26-17
5. Mykolaiv		23-19
6. Ferro-ZNTU		23-19
7. Dnipro		20-21
8. Kryvbasbasket		20-22
9. DniproAzot		18-25
10. BC Odessa		17-26
11. Halychyna		15-29
12. Khimik		14-29
13. BC Kyiv		10-32

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

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

1. Burtt, Dnipro	23.3
2. Burns, Fe.	17.2
3. Washington, BC Od.	17.0
4. Flores, BC Donetsk	16.7
5. Curry, Azovmash	16.5
6. Wiggins, Halychyna	14.7
7. Williams, Halychyna	14.7
8. Fraser, DniproAzot	14.6
9. Bakic, Kryvbasb.	14.5
10. Millage, Khimik	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Michael FRASER
  DniproAzot
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 11

1. Fraser, DniproAzot	11.0
2. Wiggins, Halychyna	9.3
3. Burns, Fe.	8.4
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. Zimmerman, Hoverla	4.9
3. Burtt, Dnipro	4.9
4. Vasiljevic, BC Do.	4.9
5. Funn, Halychyna	4.7
6. Millage, Khimik	4.6
7. Sparks, BC Odessa	4.5
8. Brewer, BC Odessa	4.5
9. Harris, Fe.	4.1
10. Sirsnins, DniproAzot	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.	1.6
5. Sirsnins, DniproAzot	1.5
6. Love, Mykolaiv	1.5
7. Mazutis, Mykolaiv	1.5
8. Swanson, Hoverla	1.4
9. Zimmerman, Hoverla	1.4
10. Funn, Halychyna	1.4

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Hughes, Mykolaiv	2.2
2. Kravtsov, BC Do.	2.1
3. Hunter, Fe.	1.6
4. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.	1.5
5. Balashov, BC Odessa	1.4
6. Morrison, Halyc.	1.4
7. Agafonov, Budiv.	1.3
8. Turner, BC Odessa	1.3
9. Onufriyev, Mykolaiv	1.2
10. Coleman, Hoverla	1.2

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UNITED KINGDOM

BBL Team Of The Week - Week 27 - by Paul Nilsen

In addition to another debutante this week and also a near triple-double performer, there are also three very familiar faces who have a combined 19 appearances in our line-up this season and are all looking to take advantage in the race to catch current leader Trey Moore who is now side-lined with a serious foot injury.

Ryan Patton (One Health Sharks Sheffield)

This is the sixth time the Sharks sharp shooter has made the team and it comes courtesy of one of the hottest perimeter displays of the entire season. Patton was a remarkable 9 of 11 from downtown against the Rocks as he dished up a master class to the hosts. His accuracy from the arc helped him to 29 points while 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals all contributed to an impressive performance valuation of 34 though it was still only the second best display of a super week.

Demarius Bolds (Prestige Homes MK Lions)

Demarius Bolds makes the line-up for the very first time and that is hardly a surprise after the guard claimed a sparkling double-double as his team completed a thrilling win against Jelson Homes Leicester Riders. Bolds racked up 25 points and did the dirty work on the glass to pull down 12 rebounds as well as grabbing 4 steals and dishing up 3 assists in a vibrant all-action performance.

Andrew Sullivan (Mersey Tigers)

The Great Britain captain continues to lead Mersey Tigers by example and he is in contention to catch Trey Moore after chalking up a seventh appearance of the season in our starting five with a great double-double. He ensured Tigers despatched Worthing Thunder with 20 points and 13 rebounds with his best work coming inside where he was almost unstoppable, finishing a highly efficient 9 of 10 shots in the paint.

Mike Tuck (One Health Sharks Sheffield)

Just like team-mate Ryan Patton, Sharks forward Mike Tuck also brings up his sixth appearance of the season and he can have the bragging rights in the locker room after completing the best display of the week. He amassed a performance valuation of 35 against Rocks to surpass Patton after pouring in 32 points and harvesting 11 rebounds. Tuck was perfect from outside where made two triples and also from the free-throw line where he was 6 of 6.

Kadiri Richard (203-F-80, college: Virginia Union) (Newcastle Eagles)

Completing a near clean sweep of double-doubles in our line-up comes Kadiri Richard (203-F-80, college: Virginia Union). The dunk champion came up with one of the most impressive stats of the season as he missed out on the rarest of triple-doubles by just one block after finishing the game against Lions with 12 points, 14 rebounds and 9 blocked shots. The display also included a number of ferocious dunks and alley-oops in an exciting and entertaining display of his athleticism.

BBL Team Of The Week

Ryan Patton (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
Demarius Bolds (Prestige Homes MK Lions)
Andrew Sullivan (Mersey Tigers)
Mike Tuck (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
Kadiri Richard (203-F-80, college: Virginia Union) (Newcastle Eagles)

Off The Bench

Lehmon Colbert (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders), Reggie Jackson (Newcastle Eagles),Paul Williams (One Health Sharks Sheffield)), Adam Williams (Worthing Thunder), Otis Polk (UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders), Joseph Harris (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders)

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VENEZUELA

LPB 2011 - Week 5 (Mar. 22nd): Cocodrilos and Gigantes with away wins, Gaiteros and Toros tough at home - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas and Gigantes de Guayana won as visitors against Panteras de Miranda and Guaros de Lara, while Gaiteros del Zulia and Toros de Aragua were tough enough at home to take down Guaiqueries de Margarita and Bucaneros de La Guaira.

COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 102 - PANTERAS DE MIRANDA 80
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
PAN: 20-22-21-17= 80
COC: 29-24-23-26= 102

Scorers
COC: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 22 points, 10 rebounds and 4 steals, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 17 points, Carl Elliott (193-G-83) 12 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 12 points, Windi Graterol (204-C-86) 11 points, Nestor Colmenares (203-F-87) 9 points, Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 8 points, Henry Paez (184-PG-70) 5 points, Keving Palacios (203-F/C-84) 4 points, Darwin Matos (197-G/F-85) 2 points, Boris Urbina (195-G/F-84) 0 points, Derson Santos (197-F-84) 0 points
PAN: Michael Flores (192-G-85) 23 points, Kojo Mensah (185-PG-85) 13 points, 6 assists and 6 steals, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 13 points, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 9 points, Albert Jackson (211-F/C-88) 8 points, DeAndre Coleman (201-F-86) 6 points, Ludwing Irazabal (201-C/F-73) 6 points, Roque Osorio (206-C-76) 2 points, Darwin Jaramillo (192-F-86) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 0 points, Richard Mejias (187-G-78) 0 points, Elvis Burguillos (194-G/F-82) 0 points

GIGANTES DE GUAYANA 82 - GUAROS DE LARA 75 (OVER TIME)
Domo Bolivariano - Barquisimeto, Lara

Quarter by quarter
GUA: 8-18-21-17-11= 75
GIG: 18-5-20-21-18= 82

Scorers
GIG: Blake Walker (196-G/F-82) 31 points, Andrew Feeley (206-F/C-83) 16 points, 12 rebounds and 4 steals, Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) 11 points and 12 rebounds, Paul Stoll (178-G-85) 9 points and 5 steals, Elvis Baez (189-PG-89) 5 points and 7 steals, Jorge Leon (186-PG-79) 5 points, Jorge Diaz (195-F-77) 3 points, Derwin Ramirez (191-F-82) 2 points, Daniel Macuare (190-F-84) 0 points, Marlon Patino (204-F/C-80) 0 points, Jader Fernandez (197-F-82) 0 points, Randy Vasquez (190-G-78) 0 points
GUA: John Millsap (198-F-82) 18 points, Rene Farias (188-G-86) 11 points, Heberth Bayona (210-C-78) 10 points and 8 rebounds, Cedric McGowan (198-F-85) 10 points, Sonys Reyes (181-G-86) 8 points, Leonardo Berroteran (192-F/G-81) 6 points, Brian Latham (184-G-83) 4 points and 4 steals, Kervin Bracho (204-F/C-78) 4 points, Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) 2 points, Jose Martinez (196-F-82) 2 points, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 0 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 0 points

TOROS DE ARAGUA 87 - GUAIQUERIES DE MARGARITA 77 (OVER TIME)
Rafael Romero Bolivar Colisseum - Maracay, Aragua

Quarter by quarter
TOR: 16-16-23-15-17= 87
GUAI: 25-22-10-13-7= 77

Scorers

TOR: Cheyenne Moore (198-G-84) 28 points, David Cedeno (190-G-83) 18 points, Alejandro Flores (202-F-81) 13 points and 7 rebounds, Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 9 points and 7 rebounds, Amber Marin (208-C-81) 6 points, Ernesto Mijares (190-PG-76) 6 points, Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) 4 points, Jamahr Warren (194-G/F-79) 2 points, Robert Palacios (185-PG) 1 point, Alejandro Otaiza (190-F-76) 0 points, Jose Silvera (183-PG-92) 0 points, Peter Kvietek (205-C-77) 0 points
GUAI: Rogers Washington (198-F-77) 16 points, Tulio Cobos (196-F-86) 15 points and 5 assists, Evan Brock (204-F-84) 13 points and 14 rebounds, Gregory Grays (185-G-79) 12 points, Cesar Silva (187-G-81) 7 points and 5 steals, Edgar Arteaga (200-F-80) 5 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 5 points, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 2 points, Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) 2 points, Jorge Rondon (193-G/F-90) 0 points, Carlos Rodriguez 0 points