Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/15/2011

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Men News

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ANGOLA

Libolo Beat Petro And Lead Bai Basket - by Eurobasket News
Luanda Recreativo do Libolo beat on Tuesday Petro de Luanda by 80-72, in the second round of the national senior males basketball championship 'BAI Basket' in Luanda's Cidadela pavilion.

With this victory, Recreativo do Libolo lead the competition with eight points, while Petro de Luanda occupy the fourth position with four points.

The player of Petro de Luanda, Roderick Nealy (198-F-80, college: Houston Baptist) was the best scorer of the match with 27 points.

In the first half, Recreativo do Libolo were already winning the game by 34-30.
Courtesy of: Angola Press

Angola Yet to Name National Team Coach - by Eurobasket News
Angola are to continue with their tradition of having a national team coach that has experience in their BAI domestic league.

Portuguese Luis Magalhaes has yet to renew his contract with the African champions, and there are reports in France that former French national team boss Michel Gomez has been offered the job.

'It is all speculation,' said Toni Sofrimento, the Angolan Basketball Federation director manager, to FIBA.com.

'I am the director manager of the national team and I know nothing of these stories.'

For the past three decades, the Angolan basketball team has been managed by either Angolans or Portuguese coaches with experience in the Angolan game.

Angolans Vladimir Romero, Alberto Carvalho , Vitorino Cunha and Portuguese Mario Palma and Luis Magalhaes are among the head coaches who have helped the national team succeed internationally.

'Currently the federation is focused on the BAI Basket league, nothing else,' Sofrimento said.

'After the national championship, we'll focus our attention on the Olympic games.

'Then we will announce our coach.'

Magalhaes, in fact, still has every chance to sign a new deal.

He led the team last year to two wins at the FIBA World Championship in Turkey.

'We are pleased with our coach, even though we have not renewed [the contract] it yet,' Sofrimento said.

'We are not planning to recruit any coach from outside our national championship.'

Angola has 10 gold medals at the last 11 Afrobaskets.

They were 11th out of the 16 teams at the 2002 FIBA World Championship and in the expanded 24-team FIBA World Championship five years ago, Angola finished ninth after a narrow Eighth-Finals defeat to France.

Last summer, Magalhaes led Angola to victories over Jordan and Germany, but they were beaten in the Eight-Finals by the United States.
Courtesy of: Daily Independent (Lagos)

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ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

REEBOK IS ON THE HUNT TO FIND THE FUTURE STARS OF BASKETBALL - by Maarouf Mawloud
Do you love playing Basketball? Or love watching the games? What about the Lebanese Basketball Championship? Do you think you can be a Future Star?

We are on the hunt to find young Basketball players who can be the face of Reeboks first-ever Basketball championship in Beirut, Reebok Future Stars.

To help you reach your goal, we are offering you the chance be trained by your Basketball hero for the Reebok Future Stars championship. With a star line-up of Lebanese Basketball players: Rony Fahed, Elie Stephan, Bassem Balaa, Roy Samaha, Elie Rustom,Ghaleb Reda, Nadim Souaid,Miguel Martinez, Mazen Mneimneh, Rodrigue Akl , they will ALL be sharing their skills and will teach you how you can be the next up-and-coming Reebok Player of the Game!

If you think you have what it takes, register at your local club to take part in the tryouts and you could be selected to play in the Reebok Future Stars finals coached by your Basketball hero!

Reebok Future Stars Try-Outs will take place from 27th to 29th April at Michel El Murr Stadium to select the team for the finals on 1st May 2011. Reebok Future Stars championship will take place in Antranik Court, Centre Demerjian Stadium.

Future Stars categories are:
Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18

Dont miss the fun and action! It will be a day filled with joy, excitement and family fun at the tryouts and finals where you can watch BLAZE in action, win prizes and great giveaways. You can also win EXCLUSIVE autographed Reebok Zigtech merchandise signed by NBAs very own future star John Wall!

Contact your local club to register for the games or visit the Reebok store to find out more.

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AUSTRALIA

Bucks center Andrew Bogut has right elbow surgery - by Eurobasket News
Milwaukee Bucks General Manager John Hammond announced that center Andrew Bogut (7'0''-F/C-84, college: Utah) had successful arthroscopic surgery to remove loose particles and scar tissue in his right elbow. The surgery was performed by Dr. James Andrews at the Andrews Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center in Gulf Breeze, FL.

In 65 games this season (all starts) Bogut averaged 12.8 points, a career-high 11.1 rebounds and a league-leading and career-best 2.6 blocks per game. His 168 blocks this season are the seventh-highest single-season total in team history, just behind his sixth-place total of 175 set last year. In 396 career games (388 starts), Bogut has averaged 12.7 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.6 blocks. He is among the franchise leaders in points (5,043, 18th), rebounds (3,710, fifth) and blocks (618, third).

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Kirk PENNEY
  Breakers
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 20.5

1. Penney, Breakers	20.5
2. Ervin, Hawks	20.1
3. Redhage, Wildcats	18.0
4. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	17.4
5. Williams, Tigers	17.3
6. Clark, Blaze	17.1
7. Worthington, Blaze	16.8
8. Wilkinson, Breakers	16.1
9. Ballinger, 36ers	15.3
10. Harvey, Blaze	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Sydney K.
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 10

1. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	10.0
2. Davidson, Hawks	8.0
3. Vukona, Breakers	7.5
4. Nevill, Tigers	7.4
5. Worthington, Blaze	7.0
6. Schenscher, Croco.	6.9
7. Holmes, 36ers	6.8
8. Crosswhite, Taipa.	6.8
9. Williams, Tigers	6.8
10. Clark, Blaze	6.8

Assists Per Game

Corey WILLIAMS
  Tigers
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Williams, Tigers	6.1
2. Gibson, Blaze	5.5
3. Ervin, Hawks	4.5
4. Shannon, 36ers	4.4
5. Braswell, Breakers	4.4
6. Saville, Hawks	4.1
7. Carter, 36ers	4.0
8. Ubaka, Taipans	4.0
9. Blalock, Crocodiles	3.5
10. Martin, Wildcats	3.2

Steals Per Game

Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Martin, Wildcats	2.4
2. Crawford, Croco.	1.5
3. Carter, 36ers	1.4
4. Saville, Hawks	1.4
5. Dorsey, Taipans	1.4
6. Shannon, 36ers	1.4
7. Ellis, Crocodiles	1.3
8. Williams, Tigers	1.3
9. Ervin, Hawks	1.3
10. Tovey, Wildcats	1.3

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Ballinger, 36ers	1.9
2. Khazzouh, Sydney K.	1.8
3. Clark, Blaze	1.2
4. Nevill, Tigers	1.1
5. Schenscher, Croco.	1.1
6. Worthington, Blaze	1.1
7. Crosswhite, Taipa.	1.0
8. Sanders, Sydney K.	0.9
9. Gilder, Sydney K.	0.9
10. Abercrombie, Break.	0.8

Yaps Wrap - by Eurobasket News

So finally the week has arrived. Perhaps round five will be the dawning of a new era in our grand competition . a moment to rival the rise of that teenager every teenybopper swoons over . no not Sweet Cal, that Bieber kid is who I mean.

Roll out the red carpet and put your hands together for arguably the biggest, classiest and slickest team ever assembled in the Big V.

Some may scoff and Im happy to be corrected if anyone out there rates another unit better than that of Elthams Greer, Sturt, Tragardh and Leonard, plus you can throw in Lister, Bryar and Norton for good measure.

As luck would have it (not), the bottom two teams in SCM (Ringwood and Hume City) face the Wildcats juggernaut first up. For months the Wildcats have been beating the jungle drums and delivering hype and excitement to the masses, now its time to deliver!

I for one have been attracted to the light like a delirious moth and I cant wait to find out if the Eltham superstars can deliver the goods from the get go? Im on the bandwagon, row one, seat 1A.

Hate to harp on Ringwood in SCM (but Im going to) the Hawks went from chocolates to boiled lollies last week, slumping from a 109-point outing (and win) back to a 68-point showing (and loss) and that was with Daryl Corletto back in uniform.

Ive called them out on Big V TV this week as the most disappointing team thus far and I would be amazed if anyone would have predicted a 1-3 start by the Hawks.

I was the first person to pump up Ringwoods tyres last year and rode the gravy train with them at every opportunity. It was a bloody fun ride, too, up until they coughed and spluttered their way through the grand final series and subsequent loss to Waverley.

Maybe its the good old tall poppy syndrome at work with Ringwood, but I can assure you if Eltham dont live up to the hype then they too will cop some negative attention.

So lets put the old jewels on the line here and look Kenny Harrington and his Hawkers dead smack between the eyes

Kenny is a good sport and no doubt has a bit of a chuckle when he reads and listens to us fools in the media, but even he will know his team faces two massive crunch games this weekend.

The Hawks play Bulleen and Eltham the Boomers are yet to drop one and the Wildcats will have their stars on court if the Hawks lose both Im tipping theyll miss the finals!

Yep, early call and no doubt someone will want to stone me, but if they lose both this week the Hawks will be sitting at 1-5 with the only team yet to play being Hume City.

You do the math and draw your own conclusions.

And while the Hawks are all over the shop, you cant help but be impressed with Bulleen and Waverley. Heads down and arses up, totally focused on playing team ball. Flying under the radar maybe, but as each week goes by the Boomers and Falcons just go about their business.

Perhaps weve spent far too much time on the likes of Ringwood and Eltham and need to start pointing the spotlight on the Boomers and Falcons? After all, whos delivering the goods?

Lets not forget the Falcons are reigning champs, so perhaps not surprising at all to see them up on top and leading the way.

And just while Im rabbiting on about SCM, a call goes out to Hume City and a big well done on slapping the critics down with a win up in the sticks last week. Question is, can the Broncos now string a couple of wins together?

Every chance a clairvoyant would do his or her head in trying to work out the fortunes of some teams in the Big V.

Take Warrnambool in D1M for example who would have thought they would lose at home to Sunbury, a unit that most tipped would struggle to win a game as they rebuild for the future?

Well, the Jets have got a win and the Seahawks are just maddening to try and work out. In fact the Jets men and women touched up Warrnambool and no doubt would have enjoyed a couple of sherbets on Saturday night.

The Sun finally came up in SCW and the new girls on the block got a win, great for them, but what a slap in the face for Hume City. With absolutely no disrespect to the ladies from the forest, I just cant believe the Broncos have fallen lower than Sweet Cal's field goal %.

At the moment you cant help but feel the Broncos may be looking at a winless season. They need a playmaker, someone to stand up and deliver, or even just lead the way and drag the others across the line.

I called Melbourne Uni out in D1M last week and unfortunately for the Black Angels my worst fears turned out to be spot on. Melbourne Uni tip-toed under the radar in the opening three weeks with wins against suspect opposition, but as soon as the tempo lifted the Black Angels couldnt sustain it and now find themselves back in the pack.

Fairly happy with the Sharks at present, a couple of good wins in round four (stick that up your jumper, Cal), while Geelong is also starting to show all the signs of a team that is set to deliver at critical times.

And while Im floating around D1M, anyone down at The Furness want to explain what the devil is going on with Werribee?

The Devils were horrible against Hawthorn last week, they just stunk it up which is usually blamed on other parts of Werribee most of the time! I for one thought the Devils would be far better than what weve seen so far. Very disappointing.

Mildura rolls on in D1W and a couple of whispers suggest they may still have a big name recruit to come. Stay tuned as the girls up north are definitely on fire.

A question out to all the coaches who shake their head at poor shooting is it the oppositions defence or is it just plain bad shooting?

D2W Blackburn shot the rock at 15%, scoring just 37pts and losing to Melbourne Uni last week .. YUK! There are a heap of other teams also suffering the yips, especially from the foul line. Good luck if you can get away with it, but chances are it will catch up with you sooner or later.

Clear the courts out at Slater Reserve this week, both of them preferably, because a few Viking lasses need to work out where the ball is supposed to go!

MIA list for this week (Ill keep it short and succinct) Chelseas David LeBron was literally MIA and didnt take to the court for the Gulls (who lost), Hume Citys Jermaine Maybank is still stuck in a rut and just cant find form, Ringwoods Luke McMillan crashed and delivered just 12 & 7 after a 35 & 10 performance the week before, and Im not sure where both Warrnambool teams are at with both struggling to find consistency. We all expect it to come, but when is anyones guess?

On the Flying Under The Radar list, Im going to start with Alira Mohocic out at Whittlesea whos nine blocks against Altona in SYCW last week took her four game tally to 22! Also swooping low is Bulleen in SCM (still). Its not that the Boomers arent playing well, they certainly are, as four straight wins would suggest, but still nobody rates them and expects the Boomers to soon hit a wall and crash and burn.

Its a classic case of pretenders or contenders thats the call going out to the Boomers. All will be revealed this Saturday night when they travel to Ringwood in a great match-up . the inconsistent and individualistic Hawks up against a team loaded with grit, guts and determination.

Im also impressed with Werribees SYCM2 team, who sit on top of the ladder with four straight wins and a massive percentage. No longer are the Devils flying low.

I spent a bit of time last year talking about some of the fun and exciting names in the Big V, of which my most favourite turned out to be Mweemba Maluma, just ahead of Deng Deng and DKD.

Ive scoured the box scores and again there are some rippers this year, but at this stage Id have to say that a quartet in Melbournes SCM team has dashed to the front.

I just dont know that it gets any better than Tips Siluse, Moses Adepoju, Bennie Lewis and Felix Von Hofe? For me Tips, Moses, Bennie and Felix are this years clubhouse leaders.

Now, Ill leave my serious response for The Final Whistle, but a tongue-in-cheek response to a debate on the forum last week is needed right here.

The forum thread was started by Roger Bray, who Ive never heard of, and was titled Big V Promoting Mediocrity which started with Is it just me or does the Big V website and league in general seem to give equal billing whether you are playing Championship of Division 3?

Roger the Dodger went on to say I am hardly inspired by interviews with players from Division 3 and talking up these players with their great nicknames when they have the game of my big toe.

Now Roger, Im sure your big toe can play some serious ball mate, but nobody is forcing you to watch anything. And, there is no such thing as Division 3 anymore my friend.

Looking through the divisions (below your elite level in championship where your big toe dominates), I gather you dont rate the likes of Jermaine Williams, Tron Smith, Stacey Barr, Vanessa Power, Jordan Canovan, Jason Reardon, amongst many others?

What a tragedy it was for basketball in Mildura last year with all the promotion the Heat received via Kevin Smith. Bloody terrible for Mildura and the league!

Roger, you dont need me to tell you this, but if you have no interest in hearing about D2M (for example), then dont listen or read when we talk or write about it. Were not forcing you to mate. Walk away and take a deep breath!

And please, Roger Bray, dont be nave enough to think that nobody else around the Big V isnt interested in D2M, because Im banking on the fact that everyone who supports a team in D2M couldnt give a stuff about you or your big toe.

The work that (for example) Southern Peninsula does to promote its club, teams and players deserves recognition. The people who follow the Sharks want to hear about their team and players. Should they be denied this coverage by a league board, administration and media team that is there to represent all clubs, teams and players?

Fact is Roger that every club pays administration fees to the league and as a result every club deserves to be treated with the same level of service and respect.

You get the calculator out Roger and work out if focusing on 16 teams over another 85 is, or would be, smart administration? The Big V should, and does, provide coverage to 101 teams.

And, if you watch and read carefully, you would have picked up by now that the championship levels do get more than adequate coverage compared to the other divisions.

We have a top level in the Big V and it is recognised, but it is also up to clubs involved at that level to be pushing and promoting their teams and players. Unfortunately thats not always the case.

Read back through my articles and watch every past episode of Big V TV and you might just be surprised how much coverage is afforded to champ level, though unfortunately I cant remember interviewing your big toe yet. Perhaps we can get that done in the coming weeks?

Perhaps, Roger Bray, you should join me on Big V TV next week? Im more than happy for you to come along and talk about you and your club for a few minutes. You make the effort mate and well give you the microphone!

And that leads me to invite everyone from across the league to come and join Sweet Cal, ADS and myself on a Monday night at Waverley Basketball Stadium for the filming of Big V TV.

After each show we will be recording interviews with players and coaches who turn up that will then be put up on the Big V website in a new section called On The Couch.

This is a fantastic way for clubs and players to grab some coverage and promotion, even those at championship level, Roger!

And I promise that well make it fun! Hope to see some of you next Monday night from 6.30pm.
Courtesy of: http://www.bigv.com.au

Big V: Round 5 Previews - by Eurobasket News
GAME OF THE ROUND
Ringwood vs. Bulleen Sat 16/4 8.15pm @ Maroondah Indoor Sports Centre
The Hawks have plenty of critics to answer at the moment after a very shaky start to the season. They
have an opportunity to silence the haters here when they take on the surprisingly unbeaten Bulleen
Boomers at Maroondah on Saturday night. Harringtons men have caught fire once from the field
through their first 4 games and recorded a win. If they are going to rely on their shooting ability alone to
close out games, theyll hope they are on point against the Boom Boom Boomers who just play really
good basketball. Everything you read in the manual to a successful team, Bulleen is getting full marks in
every category. They play for each other, are being led by a veteran in Damon Lowery (180-G-67) and most
importantly, they are believing that they can go all the way. Two teams on opposite ends of the
confidence spectrum will matchup in what is going to be a great game to watch.

Hume City vs. Eltham Sat 16/4 8.00pm @ Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium
The Broncos are back in the winners circle, but might just get a reality check this week when they take on
the new Wildcats squad with their recruits suiting up for their first game in an Eltham uniform. Maybank
is like a volcano, could erupt at any minute. Unfortunately hes been dormant for the first round, but hes
been too good for too long to not have a big night soon.

Diamond Valley vs. Sherbrooke Sat 16/4 8.00pm @ Diamond Valley Sport & Fitness
The Eagles had a bit of a setback the last couple of weeks, not entirely their fault though. They unluckily
caught Ringwood on their only hot night of the season and then Waverley last week that seem invincible
at the moment. They can get back in the mix for top four with a win over the Sherbrooke Suns. This is not
walk in the park though as the Suns will fight tooth and nail after losing to the lowly Hume City Broncos
last week, giving them their first win of the season.

Eltham vs. Ringwood Sun 17/4 3.00pm @ Eltham High School
The big recruits will play their first game in front of their home fans, The Red Army when they host the
Ringwood Hawks on Sunday afternoon. Both clubs have a game the night before and this could be a high
scoring and entertaining brand of ball with star players everywhere you look. McMillan, Tragardh, Hill,
Greer, Corletto, Sturt and Leonard are going to be on the court a lot together, so expect sparks to fly.
Ringwoods season might just be on the line in this one with Justin Nelson (182-G) claiming that if they drop both
of these in round 5, they are goners. The Hawks play well when they have something to prove, the stakes
have never been higher.

Melbourne vs. Diamond Valley Sun 17/4 3.00pm @ North Melbourne Rec Centre
The Tigers will host the Eagles on Sunday afternoon, fresh and ready to do battle. They are an unknown
quantity this season due to just about everyone from the Melbourne Tigers history suiting up for them.
With the NBL season now finished, we might see a bit more consistency in the line-up and some more
Ws on the board.

Waverley vs. Sherbrooke Sun 17/4 3.00pm @ Waverley Basketball Centre
With the blowtorch being applied to Ringwood and the red carpet being rolled out for the Eltham
recruits, Waverley will quietly take on the Suns on Sunday in what could be their fifth win in their
undefeated season. There will be no Dillon for this one as the Taipans have gone to a game three, but
they are cruising without him as Ivan Platenik continues on his mission.

Breakers move into decider - by Eurobasket News
They did it the hard way, but the New Zealand Breakers finally dispatched Perth Wildcats 99-83 at the North Shore Events Centre on Wednesday to progress to next week's iiNet NBL Championship finals.

After losing at home last week and staging a miraculous comeback on the road over the weekend, the regular-season champions finally vindicated their playoff favouritism to book a showdown with the winners of the Cairns versus Townsville Semi-Final Series.

'For us, it was all about giving it the effort and energy required to play a finals game,' reflected Breakers coach Andrej Lemanis.

'After last Thursday, we were pretty disappointed in that department, but going to Perth, we found that part of our game again, regardless of results.'

After falling behind early, the Breakers rode a 10-point run to ease ahead during the second quarter and never trailed again.

The advantage never fell below six points during the second half and Perth centre Andre Brown was eventually ejected after a fracas during the final quarter, an act that probably ended his teams hopes of victory once and for all.

American Gary Wilkinson (206-F-82, college: Utah St.) led all scorers with 20 points for the Breakers, ably assisted by Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) (18) and CJ Bruton (17). Forward Matthew Knight (204-F/C-85, college: Loyola Marymount) was the best of Wildcats with 17 points.

Forward Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college: Metro St.), injected into the starting lineup for Brown, put the visitors up initially and the margin grew to seven points as their hosts stumbled out of the blocks.

But some full-court pressure settled the Breakers' nerves and when American Gary Wilkinson converted a sneaky three-point play on the buzzer, the Cats led just 25-23 after a quarter.

CJ Bruton erased that gap immediately and Wilkinson put New Zealand up from the free-throw line.

There were signs that the Breakers were starting to toy with their opponents as Kirk Penney drove and dished to Bruton in the corner for a pretty trey.

Tom Abercrombie swatted a shot from among the NSEC rafters and then batted an offensive rebound to Penney to strike from the corner.

When Kevin Braswell connected from somewhere near the carpark, the margin was double-figures and the home side went into halftime 52-43 up.

They were shooting accurately 55 percent from the field, 50 percent from afar and 82 perfect from the line and executing superbly for 15 assists.

Wilkinson, who had played limited minutes all series with a bronchial infection, led all scorers with 14 points, while Cam Tovey paced the Wildcats with nine.

'Thankfully, Gary has been feeling better,' said Lemanis. 'He plays with energy and passion, but most of all, he wants the team to do well.'

'That's hard enough to find in anyone, but it's particularly hard to find in an American.'

But there were hints that Perth could still find a way back into the hunt. They had snared nine offensive boards, were outscoring their rivals 24-16 in the paint and had forced 11 turnovers.

And for a while, it seemed Matthew Knight might be the man to lead that revival, rattling in 10 points during the third period. He dragged to within six points later in the spell, but a three from Wilkinson steadied the ship and the margin was still 72-61 entering the home stretch.

Guard Damian Martin hit a trey to spark some hope for the guests, but soon after Brown further reduced the deficit, he was thrown out for jabbing at Mika Vukona during one of several tense moments.

When Wilkinson hit three of the resulting four freebies, New Zealand had bought some breathing space and only needed to hold on.

'They knew they were behind the eight ball and had to do something to get back in the game,' said Breakers captain Paul Henare.

'It's unfortunate they had to resort to that stuff and they'd probably say they were just playing physical.'

'In the same situation, we'd probably do the same. They were fighting and scrapping to the end, and you almost have to respect them for that.'

Penney dropped a long trey to extend the margin to 14, Abercrombie added to that from mid range and a three-point play from Bruton put the result beyond doubt.

The veteran Aussie son of an NBL legend had been almost missing in action as the regular season wound down, but found his best form when it was most needed.

'CJ understands his own body and, mentally and physically, where he needs to be when it counts,' said Lemanis. 'We trust him to do that and he loves the big stage.'

It wasn't a perfect performance by any means. The Wildcats still snatched 18 offensive boards and scored better around the basket.

But perhaps the biggest stat of the night was the 3/7 shooting performance and 11 points. Remember, six days earlier he had blazed for 29 points, including five three-pointers, on the same court.

The 'Cats had certainly done the Breakers a favour by awaking the sleeping giants from their late-season slumber.

'They were a tough, tough team and the defending champions,' insisted Lemanis.

'They taught us lessons about how to approach Game One of a playoffs series and thats a great learning experience for us as a group.'

'We know it's going to be a war and we have to bring the appropriate effort. Home court doesnt mean anything; you still have to come to play.'

New Zealand now have a week to recover and prepare for Game One of the best-of-three finals series next Wednesday.

New Zealand Breakers 99 (Gary Wilkinson 20, Kirk Penney 18, CJ Bruton 17, Tom Abercrombie 10)

Perth Wildcats 83 (Matthew Knight 17, Jesse Wagstaff 12, Cam Tovey 11, Stephen Weigh 11)

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

Standings - ABA

ABA Standings

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

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

BAHAMAS

Magnum Rolle inks deal with Atlanta Hawks - by Eurobasket News
Magnum Rolle (211-C/F-86, college: Louisiana Tech) has become the sixth Bahamian player to reach the NBA. He recently signed a deal with the Atlanta Hawks. The details of the deal were not disclosed but Magnum Rolle is likely to stay with the Hawks in the next season. The 25-year-old centre started the season in D-League. He averaged 14.1 points, 5.5 boards, 1.3 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.2 blocks per game for the Maine Red Claws. It is the first pro season for the centre. Magnum Rolle graduated from Louisiana Tech in 2010. He notched 13.9 points, 8.4 boards and 2.1 blocks per game in his senior season. The centre was named into All-WAC 2nd Team last year. Magnum Rolle has joined Mychal Thompson, Ian Lockhart (202-F/C-67, college: Tennessee), Dexter Cambridge (202-F/C-70, college: Texas), Glenroy Ferguson and Rick Fox (202-F-69, college: N.Carolina) as the sixth Bahamian to reach the worlds strongest league.

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

BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

1. Charleroi		20-4
2. Aalstar		18-8
3. M.Hainaut		15-9
4. Oostende		15-11
5. Antwerp		14-10
6. Verviers-Pep.		9-16
7. Leuven		9-17
8. Liege		8-17
9. Gent		5-21

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Stefon JACKSON
  Verviers-Pep.
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 16.7

1. Jackson, Verviers.	16.7
2. Black, Antwerp	15.9
3. Lojeski, Oostende	15.7
4. Copeland, Aalstar	15.5
5. Mallet, Charleroi	15.5
6. Taylor, M.Hainaut	15.5
7. Hilliard, Aalstar	15.1
8. Waters, Verviers.	15.0
9. Freeman, Verviers.	14.8
10. Miller, Leuven	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

Christopher YOUNG
  Aalstar
  (206-F/C-79)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Young, Aalstar	7.9
2. Randle, Gent	7.8
3. Freeman, Verviers.	7.8
4. Stipanovic, Liege	7.4
5. Hilliard, Aalstar	7.3
6. Tofi, Leuven	6.5
7. Jackson, Verviers.	6.5
8. Brown, Antwerp	6.5
9. Dagunduro, Leuven	6.2
10. Wilson, Antwerp	6.0

Assists Per Game

Darrel MITCHELL
  Oostende
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 4.4

1. Mitchell, Oostende	4.4
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	3.7
3. Dagunduro, Leuven	3.6
4. Waters, Verviers.	3.4
5. Hopkins, Antwerp	3.1
6. Moors, Antwerp	3.0
7. Black, Antwerp	2.9
8. Bosco, Gent	2.8
9. Miller, Leuven	2.7
10. Mallet, Charleroi	2.7

Steals Per Game

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

1. Jenkins, Liege	2.8
2. Hatten, M.Hainaut	2.5
3. Hopkins, Antwerp	2.4
4. Mallet, Charleroi	2.3
5. Wilson, Antwerp	2.1
6. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.1
7. Mitchell, Oostende	1.9
8. Taylor, M.Hainaut	1.9
9. McCauley, M.Hai.	1.6
10. Lojeski, Oostende	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Mejri, Antwerp	1.6
2. Riddick, Charleroi	1.6
3. Johnson, Aalstar	1.0
4. Young, Aalstar	0.8
5. Randle, Gent	0.8
6. Tofi, Leuven	0.7
7. Copeland, Aalstar	0.5
8. Pelle, Oostende	0.5
9. Freeman, Verviers.	0.5
10. Dagunduro, Leuven	0.4

D1 Round 29: #1 Spirou Charleroi is defeated by VOO Verviers-Pepinster - 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 of Regular Season. Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked Spirou Charleroi (20-4) on the court of seventh ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by VOO Verviers-Pepinster 85-80. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Spirou Charleroi won fourth quarter 30-28. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VOO Verviers-Pepinster made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Dominic Waters (185-G-86, college: Portland St.) stepped up and scored 28 points and 5 assists for the winners and forward Brandon Gay (203-82, college: San Diego, agency: Edge Sports) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Justin Hamilton (191-80, college: Florida) responded with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. VOO Verviers-Pepinster (9-16) moved-up to sixth place. Spirou Charleroi lost third consecutive game. Defending champion still keeps top position with four games lost. VOO Verviers-Pepinster are looking forward to face Belgacom Liege (#8) on the road in the next round. Spirou Charleroi will play against Leuven Bears (#7) and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Okapi Aalstar (18-8) against fifth ranked Antwerp Giants (14-10) on Wednesday night. Visiting Okapi Aalstar was defeated by Antwerp Giants in Antwerp 71-56. American guard Timothy Black (178-81, college: Barton, NC, agency: Limelight Hoops) nailed 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side and Michael Roll accounted for 18 points. American swingman Anthony Hilliard (193-86, college: Elizabeth City) came up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds for Okapi Aalstar in the defeat. Okapi Aalstar's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Antwerp Giants maintains fifth place with 14-10 record. Okapi Aalstar at the other side keeps the second position with eight games lost. Antwerp Giants will play against higher ranked Dexia Mons-Hainaut (#3) in Quaregnon in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Okapi Aalstar will play at home against Base Oostende and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Bottom-ranked Optima Gent managed to get a fifth victory, breaking the series of four consecutive loses on Wednesday night. This time they won against sixth-ranked Leuven Bears 72-67. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Leuven Bears. The best player for the winners was Monwell Randle who scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. Adeola Dagunduro produced a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds for the guests. Leuven Bears' coach tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Optima Gent maintains ninth place with 5-21 record. Loser Leuven Bears dropped to the seventh position with 17 games lost. Optima Gent will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Leuven Bears will play against the league's leader Spirou Charleroi (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Fourth ranked Base Oostende (15-11) crushed at home 8th ranked Belgacom Liege (8-17) by 30 points 86-56, which is the biggest margin this round. Matt Lojeski orchestrated the victory by scoring 16 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Base Oostende have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 15-11 record. Belgacom Liege at the other side keeps the eighth position with 17 games lost. Base Oostende's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Okapi Aalstar on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Belgacom Liege will play against VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Gent - Leuven 72-67

Bottom-ranked Optima Gent managed to get a fifth victory, breaking the series of four consecutive loses on Wednesday night. This time they won against sixth-ranked Leuven Bears 72-67. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Leuven Bears. Leuven Bears trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 22-15 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 67-72 at the end of the game. Optima Gent made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American power forward Monwell Randle (203-83, college: SE Missouri St., agency: Court Side) who scored 12 points and 7 rebounds. International guard Lionel Bosco (176-81, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Nigerian guard Adeola Dagunduro (196-86, college: Nebraska) produced a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds and Samoan-American power forward John Tofi (203-84, college: UTEP) added 14 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) respectively for the guests. Five Optima Gent and four Leuven Bears players scored in double figures. Leuven Bears' coach tested ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Optima Gent maintains ninth place with 5-21 record. Loser Leuven Bears dropped to the seventh position with 17 games lost. Optima Gent will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Leuven Bears will play against the league's leader Spirou Charleroi (#1) and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Gent: L.Bosco 14+3reb+2ast, S.Geukens 13+1reb+3ast, M.Randle 12+7reb, M.De Zeeuw 11+7reb, D.Loubry 10+1reb+2ast, L.Louves 5+7reb
Leuven: J.Tofi 14+3reb+2ast, A.Dagunduro 13+11reb+2ast, B.Freeman 13+1reb+1ast, J.J.J. Miller 10+3ast, I.Hanavan 8+4reb, W.Vuchelen 5

Antwerp - Aalstar 71-56

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Okapi Aalstar (18-8) against fifth ranked Antwerp Giants (14-10) on Wednesday night. Visiting Okapi Aalstar was defeated by Antwerp Giants in Antwerp 71-56. The game without a history. Antwerp Giants led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Antwerp Giants outrebounded Okapi Aalstar 40-28 including 25 on the defensive glass. American guard Timothy Black (178-81, college: Barton, NC, agency: Limelight Hoops) nailed 22 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Michael Roll (196-87, college: UCLA) accounted for 18 points. American swingman Anthony Hilliard (193-86, college: Elizabeth City) came up with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds and American-Lithuanian power forward Christopher Young (206-79, college: Michigan, agency: Court Side) added 14 points and 10 rebounds respectively for Okapi Aalstar in the defeat. Okapi Aalstar's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Antwerp Giants maintains fifth place with 14-10 record. Okapi Aalstar at the other side keeps the second position with eight games lost. Antwerp Giants will play against higher ranked Dexia Mons-Hainaut (#3) in Quaregnon in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Okapi Aalstar will play at home against Base Oostende and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Antwerp: T.Black 22+5reb+5ast, M.Roll 18+3reb+1ast, D.Wilson 15+7reb, R.Biggs 5+3reb, J.Mwema 5+2reb, G.Brown 4+10reb+2ast
Aalstar: A.Hilliard 18+10reb+3ast, C.Young 14+10reb, A.Ruoff 9+3reb+2ast, C.Copeland 7+3reb+3ast, S.Burrell 4+1reb+2ast, P.Gonzales 2

Oostende - Liege 86-56

Fourth ranked Base Oostende (15-11) crushed at home 8th ranked Belgacom Liege (8-17) by 30 points 86-56, which is the biggest margin this round. The game without a history. Base Oostende led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Belgacom Liege to just 6 points in second quarter. It was a great shooting night for Base Oostende especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 55.6 percentage. 24 personal fouls committed by Belgacom Liege helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Matt Lojeski (198-85, college: Hawaii) orchestrated the victory by scoring 16 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Guard Quentin Serron (190-90) contributed with 11 points for the winners. Croatian center Andrija Stipanovic (208-86) answered with 9 points and 9 rebounds and the former international guard Guy Muya (190-83, agency: LBM Management) added 7 points in the effort for Belgacom Liege. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Base Oostende have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 15-11 record. Belgacom Liege at the other side keeps the eighth position with 17 games lost. Base Oostende's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Okapi Aalstar on the road and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Belgacom Liege will play against VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Oostende: M.Lojeski 16+2reb+1ast, T.Huffman 12+4ast, D.Katnic 11+1reb+2ast, Q.Serron 11+4reb+1ast, V.Petrovic 10+1reb+1ast, W.Thomas 7+5reb+2ast
Liege: A.Stipanovic 9+9reb, G.Hockins 8+1reb, G.Muya 7+3reb+1ast, X.Collette 6+1reb+1ast, O.Troisfontaines 6+2reb, P.Gillet 5+3reb+1ast

Verviers-Pep. - Charleroi 85-80

The most surprising game was another loss of top-ranked Spirou Charleroi (20-4) on the court of seventh ranked VOO Verviers-Pepinster on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by VOO Verviers-Pepinster 85-80. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Spirou Charleroi won fourth quarter 30-28. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. VOO Verviers-Pepinster made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Dominic Waters (185-86, college: Portland St.) stepped up and scored 28 points and 5 assists for the winners and forward Brandon Gay (203-82, college: San Diego, agency: Edge Sports) chipped in 13 points and 7 rebounds. Guard Justin Hamilton (191-80, college: Florida) responded with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and power forward Brent Wright (203-78, college: Florida) produced a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. VOO Verviers-Pepinster (9-16) moved-up to sixth place. Spirou Charleroi lost third consecutive game. Defending champion still keeps top position with four games lost. VOO Verviers-Pepinster are looking forward to face Belgacom Liege (#8) on the road in the next round. Spirou Charleroi will play against Leuven Bears (#7) and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Verviers-Pep.: D.Waters 28+2reb+5ast, S.Jackson 16+5reb+1ast, B.Gay 13+7reb+2ast, R.Freeman 11+4reb+1ast, D.Jorssen 6+6reb, A.Chada 5+1reb
Charleroi: J.Hamilton 22+8reb+4ast, B.Wright 17+10reb+1ast, D.Mallet 16+2reb+2ast, B.Greene 11+3reb+2ast, C.Beghin 6+5reb+1ast, A.Riddick 4+3reb+1ast

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

BOSNIA

Standings - BIH League

D1 Standings

League 6
1. Igokea		5-0
2. Siroki TT		4-1
3. Mladost		2-3
4. Borac Nektar		2-3
5. Capljina		1-4
6. Bosna		1-4
Places 7-15
1. Zrinjski HT		15-9
2. Sloboda Dita		14-10
3. Hercegovac		13-11
4. SL IAT Leotar		12-12
5. Celik		10-14
6. Varda HE		9-15
7. Brotnjo		7-17
8. Kakanj		7-17
9. Slavija		2-22

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

BRAZIL

Itabom/Bauru seal NBB quarterfinal birth - by Eurobasket News
Itabom/Bauru swept their eighth-final series versus Paulistano. They claimed a 92:66 victory in the third game of the series to advance into quarterfinals. Alex Oliveira (194-F-83) came up with 26 points to pace the winners.
Itabom/Bauru outgunned their opponents 29:13 in the opening stanza to clear off. The hosts went on a 24:9 run in the third term to build an insurmountable margin and cruised to the victory at the end. Fernando Fischer (190-G-81) notched 22 points for Itabom/Bauru. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) finished with 15 points in the win. Luiz Felipe (201-F-79) answered with 22 points for Paulistano. Luiz Felipe Campos (191-G-80, college: BYU) added 10 points in the loss.
In the meantime Sao Jose surged ahead in the series against Winner/Limeira. They posted the second straight win at home 72:60. Sao Jose overcame a 5-point deficit after the starting quarter to celebrate a tough win at the end. Renato Pinto (202-F-78) came up with 20 points for Sao Jose. Mineiro Ferreira (208-C/F-88) and Murilo Becker (210-C/F-83) provided 12 points apiece in the victory. Diego Pinheiro (195-F/G-80) chipped in 16 points in defeat.

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CBL

CBL adds Cary Invasion for 2011 season - by Eurobasket News
The Continental Basketball League has added the Cary Invasion to its 2011 team line up. 'The team has been in the planning stages and ready to pull the trigger for over a year,' says General Manager and Owner of the Cary Invasion, Mark Janas.

Janas was an original and founding member of the Wilmington Sea Dawgs, one of the most successful teams in all of independent minor league basketball. He divested from the Sea Dawgs earlier this year in order to devote time and attention to the Invasion, and just as importantly, to develop a regional travel partner for the Sea Dawgs and the new CBL Fayetteville organization.

'Leaving the Sea Dawgs was a difficult decision, but Cary has the right demographics around which to support and build a minor league brand. It is also in my backyard and positioned to support my other business interests,' adds Janas. The team will play its home games at the Herbert Young Community Center in downtown Cary, North Carolina and will announce its final roster later this week. Long-time assistant coach at St. Augustine's College in Raleigh, NC, Marqus Johnson, has been appointed the team's head coach.

Courtesy of CBL

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CHINA

Prediction -- Guangdong to Win CBA Championship - by Arthur Volbert
Guangdong's best import at the start of the year, David Harrison, was injured and out for the season. Fred Jones, the other import, never panned out. Now Guangdong has two very competent new imports, Hudson Lester (191-G-84, college: Tennessee-Martin) and Haislip Marcus (207-F-80, college: Tennessee), who are more and more jelling with the rest of the team. I believe that the two new imports are comparable in ability to Xinjiang's imports and their domestic players are, on the whole, more talented and versitile than Xinjiang's. I believe that Guangdong will win the series against Xinjiang and again be CBA champion.

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

CROATIA

On The Way To The Final Four Eurocup - by Corsley Edwards
Team is full of spirit ready to take the Eurocup final four head on. This is a great feeling to be apart of a team that is accomplishing so much in European basketball for the 2010/11 season. I've had my lows this season with my blood clot issues that kept me down for close to two months. Things are much better now, due to the medication that I've been taking since being released from the hospital. Since taking my medicine it allows me to go out and play and give my best effort to help my team make a big step into Euroleague.
My positives this season not only being able to play again is that I will be inducted into the Hall Of Fame at my University Central Connecticut State. That award will be given on April 29 where my family will accept the award for my absence. I want to thank all that voted me in this year to be up for the inducted. Im enjoying this year with its ups and downs with the management, coaches, teammates, trainer, and doctors that have worked with me extensively to get me back on the court and in shape to play again.
Now we are on the way to the final four of Eurocup that i have worked days and nights to play this 16 and 17 of April. This is a once in a lifetime experience that I am moving toward, and Im going to take in every moment of being here, and treasure it.

A1 Standings

A1 Standings

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

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Hrvoje PULJKO
  Kvarner 2010
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 23

1. Puljko, Kvarner .	23.0
2. Zitko, Trogir	19.4
3. Petkovic, Svjetlost	18.1
4. Krapic, Zabok	17.6
5. Saric, Dubrava	17.2
6. Mimica, KK Split	16.8
7. Krolo, Darda	16.6
8. Ridl, Darda	15.9
9. Bakovic, Darda	15.8
10. Sobin, KK Split	15.2

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	9.2
4. Sobin, KK Split	8.0
5. Radic, Alkar Sinj	7.7
6. Ridl, Darda	6.6
7. Grgurevic, KK Split	6.4
8. Zupic, Alkar Sinj	5.7
9. Ruzic, Borik	5.7
10. Vukicevic, Svjetlost	5.6

Assists Per Game

Milan KARAKAS
  Trogir
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Karakas, Trogir	6.8
2. Petkovic, Svjetlost	5.5
3. Blajic, Trogir	4.3
4. Blajic, Alkar Sinj	4.1
5. Tomeljak, Zabok	3.9
6. Jugo, Kvarner 2010	3.6
7. Delas, Alkar Sinj	3.4
8. Peric, Dubrovnik	3.2
9. Saric, Dubrava	3.1
10. Ridl, Darda	3.0

Steals Per Game

Dario SARIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (205-F/C-94)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Saric, Dubrava	2.1
2. Anzulovic, Alkar Sinj	2.0
3. Petani, Borik	1.9
4. Tomeljak, Zabok	1.8
5. Karakas, Trogir	1.8
6. Swift, Darda	1.8
7. Bicvic, Darda	1.8
8. Blajic, Trogir	1.8
9. Maric, Svjetlost	1.6
10. Puljko, Kvarner .	1.6

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Kraljevic, Zabok	1.4
2. Vitali, Trogir	1.2
3. Saric, Dubrava	1.1
4. Vladovic, Trogir	1.0
5. Sobin, KK Split	1.0
6. Krolo, Darda	1.0
7. Ridl, Darda	0.9
8. Vukicevic, Svjetlost	0.9
9. Sarlija, Borik	0.7
10. Radic, Alkar Sinj	0.7

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

A1
1. CEZ Nymburk		7-0
2. BK Prostejov		6-2
3. BK Pardubice		5-3
4. BK Decin		3-5
5. NH Ostrava		1-6
6. Novy Jicin		1-7
A2
1. B&W Opava		18-12
2. BC Kolin		15-15
3. USK Praha		11-19
4. Basketbol Brno		10-20
5. Svitavy		7-23
6. Plzen		4-26

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Terry SMITH
  BC Kolin
  (185-G-86)
  Avg: 17.4

1. Smith, BC Kolin	17.4
2. Landry, BK Prost.	16.0
3. Houska, BK Decin	14.8
4. Hatcher, BK Decin	14.8
5. Horak, Svitavy	14.7
6. Burke, NH Ostrava	14.5
7. Kotas, USK Praha	14.5
8. Field, BC Kolin	14.3
9. Hampton, BK Pardu.	14.2
10. Muirhead, Novy Jicin	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Boris MENO
  Svitavy
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Meno, Svitavy	10.8
2. Meno, Basketbo.	10.4
3. Burke, NH Ostrava	8.7
4. Spagrud, NH Ostrava	8.6
5. Landry, BK Prost.	8.6
6. Houska, BK Decin	8.4
7. Arnold, BK Pardu.	7.8
8. Frana, Plzen	7.2
9. Kramny, Svitavy	7.0
10. Gadri, BK Prostejov	6.7

Assists Per Game

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

1. Vrubl, Plzen	5.9
2. Lawrence, BK Prost.	5.2
3. Carnecky, B&W O.	3.8
4. Jones, BC Kolin	3.8
5. Kotas, USK Praha	3.4
6. Hatcher, BK Decin	3.3
7. Channels, Novy Jicin	3.1
8. Sanders, BK Decin	3.0
9. Maio, Basketbo.	3.0
10. Ubilla, Novy Jicin	2.7

Steals Per Game

Lukas KOTAS
  USK Praha
  (194-F-84)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Kotas, USK Praha	2.1
2. Hampton, BK Pardu.	1.8
3. Holloway, Basket.	1.8
4. Wright, BK Pardu.	1.8
5. Sirina, B&W Opava	1.7
6. Smith, BC Kolin	1.7
7. Vrubl, Plzen	1.5
8. Channels, Novy Jicin	1.5
9. Hatcher, BK Decin	1.4
10. Gibson-B., NH Os.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Boris MENO
  Svitavy
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Meno, Svitavy	1.8
2. Miklosik, B&W O.	1.3
3. Trybanski, NH Os.	1.3
4. Hanke, USK Praha	1.1
5. Kramny, Svitavy	1.0
6. Gadri, BK Prostejov	0.9
7. Meno, Basketbo.	0.8
8. Egwuatu, Svitavy	0.8
9. Bjegovic, USK Praha	0.8
10. Pelikan, Novy Jicin	0.8

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

D-LEAGUE

Vipers punch ticket to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
The defending NBA Development League champion and third-seeded Rio Grande Valley Vipers win the best-of-three Quarterfinals series two games to one over the sixth-seeded Bakersfield Jam with a 112-99 victory in Game 3 on Wednesday at State Farm Arena in front of a crowd of 3,496.

The Vipers (2-1) win their fifth consecutive elimination game dating back to last year's playoffs and advance to the semifinals against either the second-seeded Reno Bighorns or the fifth-seeded Erie BayHawks, who play a decisive Game 3 in Reno on Thursday.

Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette) and Mouhammad Faye (6'9''-F-85, college: SMU) hit back-to-back three points to give the Vipers a 6-0 lead, but the Jam (1-2) responded with a 7-0 run to take the lead. Faye hit another three-pointer to give the Vipers the lead right back. The lead changed hands 12 times in the first half, with neither team leading by more than five points again until Matt Janning nailed a deep three pointer with 2.5 seconds left in the second quarter to put the Vipers up 59-53.

After Janning opened the third quarter with a jumper, the Jam hit back-to-back baskets to pull within 61-58 with 10:52 remaining. The Vipers responded with a 16-3 run. The Vipers scored the final 10 points of the run as Janning hit a three-pointer, the Vipers stole the ball, Jon Scheyer hit a three, and then the next time down the court Patrick Sullivan (6'9''-C-88, college: SE Louisiana) picked up a rebound and a tip-in. Jerel McNeal's lay-up put the Vipers up 77-61 with 7:00 remaining. The Vipers maintained a double-digit lead for the rest of the game.

McNeal led the Vipers in scoring for the third-straight game, tallying a double-double with 21 points, 12 assists and eight rebounds. Sullivan scored 20 points on 8-of-9 shooting with seven rebounds, three steals and two blocks. Janning hit four three-pointers while scoring 17 points. Terrell Harris (6'5''-G-87, college: Oklahoma St.) scored 18 points with seven rebounds.

The Jam were led by Derrick Byars (6'8''-G/F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt), who scored 26 points. Jeremy Wise finished with 25 points.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Rockets sign Marqus Blakely from Iowa Energy - by Eurobasket News
Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey announced that the team has signed forward Marqus Blakely (6'5''-F-89, college: Vermont) to a multi-year contract.

Blakely (6-5, 225, Vermont) earns a GATORADE Call-Up from the D-leagues Iowa Energy. This past season, Blakely averaged 15.0 points (.625, 287-459 FG), 6.3 rebounds, 1.47 steals and 1.2 assists in 49 games (19 starts) between the Bakersfield Jam and Iowa. He was traded by Bakersfield to Iowa for a 2011 first-round pick on Jan. 24, 2011, helping the Engery capture the D-Leagues Eastern Conference title with a 37-13 (.740) regular season record. Blakely, along with teammate Curtis Stinson, were also named NBA Development League Co-Performers of the Week for games played March 14-20.

As a collegian, Blakely finished his career at Vermont ranked fifth all-time in scoring (1,875), second in rebounding (1,044) and field goal percentage (.571), third in blocks (254) and field goals made (673), fourth in free throws made (525), and 10th in assists (304). He stands as a two-time America East Player of the Year winner and a three-time America East Defensive Player of the Year. Blakely also earned First-Team All-America East and America East All-Defensive First Team accolades three times during his career at Vermont. Winner of the 2010 State Farm College Slam Dunk Championship, Blakely averaged 17.3 points (.542 FG%), 9.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 2.4 steals and 1.9 blocks in 35 games as a senior. He was named to the America East Conference All-Tournament Team and helped Vermont to school-record 25 wins in 2009-10. Blakely was actually the only player in NCAA mens basketball to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, blocks and steals during the 2009-10 campaign.

Blakely will wear jersey #15 with the Rockets.

Courtesy of http://houston.cbslocal.com

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Trey JOHNSON
  Bakersfield J.
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 25.7

1. Johnson, Bakersfi.	25.7
2. Johnson, Erie B.	22.5
3. Jeffers, Iowa E.	21.1
4. Sims, Maine RC	20.3
5. Alexander, Texas L.	20.2
6. Stinson, Iowa E.	20.1
7. McNeal, Rio Grande	19.6
8. Dentmon, Texas L.	18.7
9. Goods, Dakota W.	18.2
10. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	17.7

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Adrien, Rio Grande	12.2
2. Ewing, Sioux F.	10.6
3. Davidson, Idaho S.	10.1
4. Sims, Iowa E.	9.6
5. Williams, Texas L.	9.6
6. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.	9.3
7. Johnson, Dakota W.	9.2
8. Jeffers, Iowa E.	9.1
9. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers	8.9
10. Alexander, Texas L.	8.9

Assists Per Game

Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 9.8

1. Stinson, Iowa E.	9.8
2. Miles, Reno Bighorns	8.7
3. Daniels, Texas L.	8.5
4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	7.9
5. Jackson, Idaho S.	7.5
6. Crittenton, Dakota W.	6.9
7. Jackson, Erie B.	6.6
8. Johnson, Austin T.	6.0
9. Ahearn, Erie Bay H.	5.9
10. Reynolds, Spring.	5.9

Steals Per Game

Zabian DOWDELL
  Phoenix Suns
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5

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

Blocks Per Game

Sean WILLIAMS
  Texas L.
  (208-F-86)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Williams, Texas L.	2.9
2. Johnson, Dakota W.	2.8
3. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers	2.7
4. Gaffney, Utah F.	2.3
5. Whiteside, Reno B.	2.2
6. Naymick, Bakersfi.	2.2
7. Goodridge, Maine R.	2.1
8. Gladness, Dakota W.	2.0
9. Fall, Maine RC	1.9
10. O''Bryant, Reno B.	1.8

Lakers recall Derrick Caracter, officially sign Trey Johnson - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Lakers have recalled rookie forward Derrick Caracter (6'9''-F-88, college: UTEP) and signed guard Trey Johnson from Bakersfield of the NBA D-League.

The Lakers needed reinforcements for Wednesday's regular season finale at Sacramento. Guard Steve Blake is out with chicken pox, forward Matt Barnes is resting his sore right knee, and center Andrew Bynum is undergoing an MRI on his hyperextended right knee.

Caracter has appeared in 40 games with the Lakers this season, averaging 2.0 points and 1.1 rebounds. He also has spent two stints in Bakersfield.

Johnson spent the preseason with the Lakers before his fourth D-League season, ranking second in the league with 25.5 points per game. He also spent seven games with the Toronto Raptors.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

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EGYPT

El Ahly win Egyptian Basketball Cup 2011 - by Eurobasket News
El Ahly win Egyptian Basketball Cup 2011 that just finished in the country. In the Quarterfinals the winners edged Sporting 75:68, while the Semifinal game became one of the most interesting. El Ahly overcame El Gezira 78:75 as they opened the game with 28-24 lead. In the Final El Ahly rolled over Smouha 86:57.

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

FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Kataja won again - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, semi-finals, Game # 2: Kataja (Joensuu) defeated the second time over KTP (Kotka) tonight and is one victory short from the finals. This time the difference was eight points 77-69 (38-29). Quarters: 22-15, 16-14, 22-14, 17-26. The key factor, that Kataja won again, were the fouls and FTs. Kataja got 19 fouls and 40 FTs (29 made). KTP got 29 fouls and 18 FTs (14 made). Darren Fells (201-F/C-86, agency: Court Side) led the hosts this time. Fells scored 20 pts. The visitors were led by Clifton Jones (201-F-78, college: Oregon St.), who netted 19 pts. Game # 3 on Sunday, April 17 at Kotka.
Kataja - KTP 77-69 (38-29). (Darren Fells 20, Jared Newson 14, Sami Lehtoranta 12 - Clifton Jones 19, Jerald Fields 18/10, Jeb Ivey 15). Kataja - KTP 2-0.

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Jonathan HEARD
  Tarmo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 21.9

1. Heard, Tarmo	21.9
2. Wilson, Honka	21.8
3. Wood, Karhu	20.6
4. Lewis, LrNM.	20.5
5. Barrett, KTP	19.7
6. Bailey, LrNM.	19.6
7. Walker, Kouvot	19.4
8. Blanchard, ToPo	19.4
9. Williamson, Honka	19.2
10. Williams, Pyrinto	18.6

Rebounds Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 13

1. Wood, Karhu	13.0
2. Kaunisto, Kouvot	10.6
3. Doaks, Salon Vilpas	10.1
4. Mathis, Namika Lahti	9.9
5. Young, Tarmo	9.6
6. Williams, Pyrinto	9.6
7. Vinson, Kouvot	9.0
8. Blanchard, ToPo	9.0
9. Coleman, LrNM.	8.8
10. Belser, Honka	8.5

Assists Per Game

Steffan JOHNSON
  Karhu
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Johnson, Karhu	4.8
2. Moore, LrNM.	4.8
3. Suonio, Namika Lahti	4.3
4. Williams, Pyrinto	4.3
5. Virtanen, Kataja	4.1
6. Wood, Karhu	3.9
7. Ivey, KTP	3.6
8. Fields, KTP	3.5
9. Sarcevic, Korihait	3.4
10. Wilson, Honka	3.3

Steals Per Game

Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Wood, Karhu	2.1
2. Fields, KTP	2.1
3. Moore, Korihait	2.0
4. Conerly, Tarmo	1.8
5. Williams, Pyrinto	1.8
6. Sarcevic, Korihait	1.7
7. Heard, Tarmo	1.7
8. Richards, ToPo	1.6
9. Newson, Kataja	1.6
10. Williams, Pyrinto	1.6

Blocks Per Game

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

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

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

FRANCE

Nanterre signs Mickael Toti - by Romain Brusc
Mickael Toti (181-G-87) joins Nanterre to replace Xavier Corosine (185-G-85) who is actually injured. The 23-years-old Ivorian-French guard was free contract since the beginning of season 2010-2011. This arrival is important for Nanterre (#1 in ProB) which aspires to reach ProA. Mickael Toti will be the backup of Loic Akono (178-G-87). He has played twice in ProB for Limoges (2007-2008) and Quimper (2009-2010). Last season, he scored 3,9 points, took 1,7 rebound and gave 2,1 assists with Quimper after having played one month in Switzerland with Boncourt (LNA).

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

FYR MACEDONIA

D1 Standings

Superleague Standings

Superleague
1. Feni Indistrija		26-2
2. MZT Skopje		20-8
3. Rabotnicki		19-9
4. Torus Skopje		17-11
5. Lirija		10-18
6. ABA Strumica		9-19
Play OUT
1. Kumanovo 2009		12-11
2. Ovce Pole		7-15
3. Ultimate Basket		5-17
4. Pelister Bitola		2-17

Stats Leaders - Superleague

Points Per Game

Darko MATIC
  Kumanovo 2009
  (192-G-84)
  Avg: 21.5

1. Matic, Kumanovo.	21.5
2. Jovanovic, Ultima.	20.3
3. Trajkovski, Torus S.	18.5
4. Petkovski, Pelist.	16.8
5. Filipovic, Ovce Pole	16.4
6. Morban, Lirija	16.4
7. Mirakovski, Rabot.	15.4
8. Blazevski, Rabotnicki	15.3
9. Nikolovski, MZT S.	15.2
10. Anakievski, Pelist.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Gjorgje JOVANOVIC
  Lirija
  (209-C-80)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Jovanovic, Ultima.	10.6
2. Jovanovic, Lirija	9.3
3. Nikolovski, MZT S.	8.8
4. Pavlovski, Lirija	8.4
5. Talevski, Pelist.	8.1
6. Trajkovski, Torus S.	7.9
7. Chappell, ABA S.	7.7
8. Jelesijevic, Torus S.	7.7
9. Rejnerio, Lirija	7.6
10. Filipovic, Ovce Pole	7.1

Assists Per Game

Carlos MORBAN
  Lirija
  (187-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1

1. Morban, Lirija	5.1
2. Kostovski, Torus S.	4.8
3. Mirakovski, Rabot.	4.6
4. Blazevski, Rabotnicki	4.0
5. Petrovski, MZT S.	4.0
6. Mladenovic, Ultima.	3.7
7. Lazic, Ultimate.	3.3
8. Samardziev, Feni I.	3.1
9. Vukotic, Kumanovo.	3.1
10. Miljkovic, Torus S.	2.9

Steals Per Game

Gjorgi ANAKIEVSKI
  Pelister Bitola
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Anakievski, Pelist.	2.5
2. Morban, Lirija	1.6
3. Petrovski, MZT S.	1.6
4. Boswell, ABA S.	1.5
5. Blazevski, Rabotnicki	1.5
6. Pupovic, MZT S.	1.4
7. Dimcevski, Torus S.	1.4
8. Mladenovic, Ultima.	1.4
9. Stojanovski, Feni I.	1.4
10. Frye, Feni Indistrija	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Bojan TRAJKOVSKI
  Torus Skopje
  (206-C/F-88)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Trajkovski, Torus S.	1.8
2. Chappell, ABA S.	1.4
3. Jelesijevic, Torus S.	1.3
4. Petric, Kumanovo.	1.1
5. Dendra, Rabotnicki	1.0
6. Simic, Rabotnicki	1.0
7. Gocevski, Rabotnicki	1.0
8. Krstevski, Torus S.	0.9
9. Avramovski, MZT S.	0.9
10. Frye, Feni Indistrija	0.9

Superleague Round 10: Feni Indistrija is the regular season champion - by Eurobasket News
The Superleague just ended. Feni Indistrija is No.1 with impressive 26-2 record. Four teams advanced to Playoff Semifinals.

Superleague
1. Feni Indistrija 26-2
2. MZT Skopje 20-8
3. Rabotnicki 19-9
4. Torus Skopje 17-11
-------------------------------
5. Lirija 10-18
6. ABA Strumica 9-19

Semifinals pairs
Feni Indistrija - Torus
MZT Skopje - Rabotnicki

Superleague

Rabotnicki - Lirija 94-74

Third ranked Fersped-Rabotnicki (19-9) crushed at home 5th ranked Lirija (10-18) by 20 points 94-74, which is the biggest margin this round on Wednesday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lirija. The game was mostly controlled by Fersped-Rabotnicki. Lirija managed to win second period 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Lirija 46-35 including a 39-27 advantage in defensive rebounds. Fersped-Rabotnicki looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Fersped-Rabotnicki made 8 blocks. Naturalized Serbian center Toni Simic (210-76) fired a double-double by scoring 22 points, 11 rebounds and 6 blocks for the winners. Geri Dendra chipped in a double-double by scoring 16 points and 12 rebounds. Fersped-Rabotnicki's coach used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Soler Mavel Rejnerio produced 17 points and 8 rebounds and Dominican guard Carlos Morban (187-82, college: FIU, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 16 points, 5 assists and 5 steals respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Rabotnicki: T.Simic 22+11reb, E.Hadzibulic 18+1reb+3ast, G.Dendra 16+12reb+2ast, M.Simonovski 13+9reb+6ast, B.Taleski 5+2reb, E.Bogoev 5+4reb+7ast
Lirija: S.Mavel Rejnerio 17+8reb+2ast, C.Morban 16+1reb+5ast, J.Nikolovski 15+4reb+1ast, M.Despotovic 12+4reb+1ast, V.Cvetnic 6+5reb+1ast, D.Berat 5+6reb+4ast

ABA Strumica - Torus Skopje 88-92

The game in Strumica was also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Torus Skopje (17-11) played at the court of 6th ranked ABA Strumica (9-19). Torus Skopje managed to secure a 4-point victory 92-88. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But ABA Strumica won fourth quarter 23-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The former international power forward Bojan Trajkovski (206-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) notched 34 points (!!!) to lead the effort and forward Marjan Janevski (203-88) supported him with 13 points. Even 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists by American center John Chappell (208, college: S.Carolina) did not help to save the game for ABA Strumica. His fellow American import guard Jeremiah Boswell (194-82) added 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for lost side.
Top scorers:
Torus Skopje: B.Trajkovski 34+3reb+1ast, M.Janevski 13+4reb+2ast, N.Karakolev 12+4reb+2ast, J.Markovski 10+2reb+3ast, B.Krstevski 9+1reb, D.Gorgovski 5+1reb+1ast
ABA Strumica: J.Chappell 20+7reb+4ast, J.Boswell 20+7reb+4ast, Z.Stojanov 19+10reb, D.Buchberger 13+4reb, A.Stimson 9+2reb+2ast, M.Hasanov 3+1reb+2ast

Feni Indistrija - MZT Skopje 88-70

The game between Top Four teams took place in Kavadarci. First ranked host Feni Indistrija (26-2) defeated their biggest opponent MZT Skopje (20-8) 88-70. The game was mostly controlled by Feni Indistrija. MZT Skopje managed to win second period 24-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Feni Indistrija had a 34-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. The former international guard Darko Sokolov (190-86) scored 21 points and 6 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Jarrid Frye (194-85, college: Sacred Heart) chipped in 14 points and 6 assists during the contest. At the losing side Serbian power forward Miljan Pupovic (209-83) responded with 19 points and 7 rebounds and American guard Darnell Lindsay (196-87, college: Tennessee Tech) scored 15 points and 6 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Feni Indistrija: D.Sokolov 21+6reb+3ast, J.Frye 14+3reb+6ast, D.Knezevic 11+9reb+1ast, V.Stojanovski 9+4reb+1ast, S.Mihajloski 9+3reb, G.Samardziev 6+1reb+1ast
MZT Skopje: M.Pupovic 19+7reb, D.Lindsay 15+6reb+1ast, S.Avramovski 8+3reb, I.Penov 7+1reb, G.Kocov 6+6reb+2ast, V.Velickovic 6

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

GERMANY

Kevin Hamilton (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) EnBW Ludwigsburg Shoot The Ball Very Well. I Expect It To Be A Good Game - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Holy Cross) is a 26 year old 193cm guard from Queens Village, New York. This season, he is playing for The New York Phantoms Braunschweig. He played at Holy Cross from 2002-2006 and played together with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons. In his senior year, he played 31 games averaging 17.6ppg, 6.3rpg, 3.5apg, 3.3spg, FG: 38.1%, 3PT: 33.2%, FT: 77.7%. In his rookie season 2006-2007, he came to Europe and played in Poland for Polpak Swiecie playing 19 games and averaging 13.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 3.8apg, Steals-2 (2.3spg), 2FGP: 44.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 64.2%. In 2007-2008, he played in France for Besancon Basket Comte Doubs (France-ProB) playing 2 games and averaging 6.0ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.5apg. He also had a short tenure in Mexico with Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun. In 2008-2009, he returned back to Poland to play for SKK Kotwica Kolobrzeg playing 32 games averaging 11.0ppg, 5.1rpg, Assists-1 (6.4apg), Steals-1 (2.8spg), FGP: 43.6%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 66.5%. He was not lazy in the last three summers staying in game shape and playing in Puerto Rico playing 90 games. In tue summer of 2009, he played for Indios de Mayaguez playing 35 games and averaging 10.5ppg, 4.7rpg, Assists-3 (6.3apg), Steals-2 (1.7spg), FGP: 45.4%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 70.6%. His father was a draft pick of The Boston Celtics in 1980. Last season, he played his first season in Braunschweig playing 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against

How well has Braunschweig digested the 101-92 loss against Phoenix Hagen?

Not very well. We let a great opportunity pass us by

Braunschweig defended so well at the Top 4 weekend. How do explain the defensive performance against Phoenix Hagen?

I think part of it was our execution but you have to give Hagen credit. They shot the lights out.

The next game is against EnBW Ludwigsburg. What has been your impression of the club this season? Will they reach the playoffs?

They are very talented and they shoot the ball very well. I expect it to be a good game.

What do you remember from the 80-76 win earlier in season?

I just remember it coming down to the last few minutes.

EnBW play very smart inside/out basketball. What will be key in getting win?

I think just defending their inside game and contesting their shooters.

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has stated that he wont chnage the way he acts on the court despite getting suspensions. Is this the right attitude? Do you think its good for the league to have more of these type of players just to spruce up the league like Dennis Rodman did in the 90s?

I don't really know if that is the right attitude or not. I personally would not be able to handle all those fines so I would probably switch it up.

Does Dwight Howard have any chance of winning the 2011 NBA MVP award?

Nope.

The Miami Heat have said that they wont sign Eddie Curry for the post season. Would he fit into the Heat system?

I don't know what kind of shape he is in. But he is talented.

Thanks Kev for chat.

Dane Watts (Walter Tigers Tuebingen) MBC Will Be Giving Everything They Have Im Sure - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dane Watts (203-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports) is a 24 year old 203cm forward from Warrensburg that is playing his second season for the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He played at Creighton (NCAA) from 2004-2008. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 11.3ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 53.4%, 3Pts: 42.5%, FT: 71.8%. In 2008, he came to Germany and started his professional basketball career with EnBW Ludwigsburg (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 32 games: 8.9ppg, 3.8rpg, FGP-1 (68.4%), 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 68.7%. Last season, he played for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 34 games: 10.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 37.6%, FT: 71.0%. He returns to Tuebingen for the 2010-2011 BEKO BBL season. At Creighton, he won awards such as MVC Tournament Winner -05, 07, MVC All-Freshman Team -05, MVC Regular Season Runner-Up -07, and MVC Tournament Semifinals -08. Watts sat down with eurobasket before the game against MBC April 15th.

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen have their second double header weekend in a row. After losing last weekends double header, the team has to face two teams that need to win. Do you like to play spoiler?

I like to compete, with both teams fighting for something important for their season it will be hard fought games.

Friday, you play on the road in Weissenfels. What is your memory of having played there last season?

It is a very old town, seemed like we stayed in the first ever hotel in Europe. It is a small gym with a good atmosphere and fan support.

MBC is fighting to stay in the league. How dangerous will MBC be as an opponent Friday?

They are trying not to be relegated and there are not many games left, they will be giving everything they have I'm sure.

What is your memory of the tight 82-80 loss earlier in the season?

I remember that we did not control the lead throughout the game. We were up double digits two different times and they continued to hang around.

What will be key in leaving MBC with a win?

Playing as a team with a sense of pride and competing for 40 minutes

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has stated that he wont chnage the way he acts on the court despite getting suspensions. Is this the right attitude? Do you think its good for the league to have more of these type of players just to spruce up the league like Dennis Rodman did in the 90s?

I think that he has a reasonable argument with the way he gets hit. I never liked that the fact because someone is bigger than everyone else they can be tackled and it be a normal foul. He needs to be able to shoot his FTs in under 10 seconds though, I have never seen so many violations from that rule. He is not even close to the Worm though.

Does Dwight Howard have any chance of winning the 2011 NBA MVP award?

Doubt it, seems like everyone has already written Rose in stone.

The Miami Heat have said that they wont sign Eddie Curry for the post season. Would he fit into the Heat system?

He would just be another big body to foul and get some rebounds.

Thanks Dane for the chat

Standings - 1. Bundesliga

1.Bundesliga Standings

1. Brose Baskets		29-2
2. Dt.Bank SKY		24-7
3. ALBA		22-9
4. Art.Dragons		20-11
5. NY Phantoms		18-13
6. EWE Baskets		18-13
7. Bremerhaven		17-14
8. EnBW L'burg		17-14
9. Goettingen		16-15
10. TBB Trier		16-15
11. Telekom Baskets		14-16
12. Phoenix Hagen		14-18
13. Walter Tigers		13-18
14. ratiopharm		12-19
15. MBC		8-23
16. LTi 46ers		8-23
17. Bayreuth		8-23
18. Duesseldorf		5-26

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Points Per Game

DaShaun WOOD
  Dt.Bank SKY
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 18.7

1. Wood, Dt.	18.7
2. Rice, Art.Dragons	17.0
3. Bell, Phoenix Hagen	16.3
4. Harris, EnBW L.	15.8
5. Ross, MBC	15.7
6. Allen, ALBA	15.6
7. Martin, Bremerha.	15.4
8. Dorris, Phoenix .	15.3
9. Benzing, ratio.	15.3
10. Callahan, Bremerha.	14.9

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Bryant, ratiopharm	11.0
2. Ensminger, Teleko.	8.3
3. Reiner, Bayreuth	8.0
4. Watts, Walter T.	7.7
5. Martin, Bremerha.	7.1
6. Burtschi, Phoenix .	6.9
7. Stevic, EWE B.	6.8
8. Ovcina, LTi 46ers	6.7
9. Pleiss, Brose B.	6.4
10. Anderson, Goett.	6.4

Assists Per Game

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

1. Ratkovica, Walter T.	7.3
2. Wood, Dt.	5.7
3. Joyce, TBB Trier	5.5
4. Rice, Art.Dragons	5.1
5. Green, EnBW L.	4.6
6. Hamilton, NY Phant.	4.3
7. Jordan, MBC	4.3
8. Goldsberry, Brose B.	4.2
9. Jordan, LTi 46ers	4.2
10. Copeland, Bremerha.	4.0

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Ibekwe, Art.Drag.	2.4
2. Pleiss, Brose B.	1.8
3. Bryant, ratiopharm	1.6
4. Ibekwe, Bayreuth	1.3
5. Seward, Phoenix .	1.2
6. Brempong, Duesseld.	1.2
7. Hines, Brose B.	1.1
8. Goree, NY Phantoms	1.1
9. Powell, Dt.	0.9
10. Boumtje, Art.Drag.	0.9

Drew Neitzel (BBC Bayreuth )Dashaun Wood And I Played Together And Against Each Other Growing Up, So It Should Be Fun Tonight - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Drew Neitzel (183-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) is a 25 year old 183cm combo guard from Grand Rapids that is playing for BBC Bayreuth. He played at Michigan State from 2004-2008. In his senior year he played 36 games: 13.9ppg, 2.5rpg, 4.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.5%, 3Pts: 39.8%, FT: 86.0%. He recahed the NCAA Final 4 in 2005 and NCAA Sweet 16 in 2008. In 2008, he turned professional playing for the Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (Germany-1.Bundesliga): Eurocup: 12 games: 8.3ppg, 1.4rpg, 3.9apg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 38.9%, FT: 82.4%; German League: 34 games: 5.3ppg, 1.1rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 42.9%, 3PT: 35.1%, FT: 86.0%. Last season, he played for ES Chalon-Sur-Saone (France-ProA, starting five): French League: 12 games: 12.6ppg, 2.2rpg, 5.3apg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 37.7%, FT: 72.7%; EuroChallenge: 4 games: 13.3ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.6%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 81.8%, left in Dec.'09, next month moved to TBB Trier (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 14 games: 7.4ppg, 1.5apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 32.5%, FT: 85.7%. He spoke to eurobasket before the game against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners April 15th.

Bamberg might have run away with first place in the beko BBL, but the battle for staying in the league is tight as ever as BBC Bayreuth, Giessen and MBC all have 8-23 points. I would imagine this whole situation is more tense than exciting for the players?

We will approach the last 3 games as we have all season, competing and working to improve each day in practice and getting a win each time we step on the floor to face the opponent.

How is the mood in the club? BBC Bayreuth has many experienced players and have played in important games.

The mood is good. Guys are working hard each day in practice and competing. We have a young team in general, but the experienced guys have stepped up to lead, and we are sticking together as a team.

What has BBC Bayreuth learned out of the 87-60 loss against the EWE Baskets Oldenburg?

We played well in the first half for the most part, but it got away from us in the second. Oldenburg is a very talented team and played well that night against us.

The next game is against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners. What do you remember most about the games that you played against Frankfurt as a player with The Artland Dragons and TBB Trier?

They have a lot of talent, and one of the best players in the league this season, Dashaun Wood, who can score, as well as create for his teammates.

You have played against many many players in the NCAA, but do you remember playing against Jevohn Shepherd who played at Michigan?

Yes. He's a good player and we had a lot of memorable games against the University of Michigan. It is always a big game when Michigan State plays Michigan.

How much are you looking forward to playing against Dashaun Wood? Did you play against him in college?

Dashaun is a great player. We are both from the state of Michigan, so I have known him since we were younger. We played together and against each other growing up so it should be fun tonight.

BBC Bayreuth needs to win and will be very motivated. What will be key in winning the game besides controlling Dashaun Wood?

Frankfurt is a very good rebounding team and good in transition, as they spread the floor well giving Dashaun Wood a lot of room to create, so we will need to rebound and slow them down in transition.

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has stated that he wont chnage the way he acts on the court despite getting suspensions. Is this the right attitude? Do you think its good for the league to have more of these type of players just to spruce up the league like Dennis Rodman did in the 90s?

Dwight is a great player and sometimes does not get all the calls he should because of how dominant he can be inside, but when his actions start to hurt the team and cause them to lose games without him on the floor, its not a good thing.

Does Dwight Howard have any chance of winning the 2011 NBA MVP award?

Probably not. In my opinion, Derrick Rose is the MVP.

Thanks Drew for the chat.

John Bynum (TBB Trier)We Arent Out Of The Race Yet, But We Need To Win Some Games ASAP - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

John Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) is a 33 year old 191 cm guard from Visalia California that is playing his first season with TBB Trier. He is a good fighter, fast and good in offensive playing. He is great athlete who can shoot the ball with consistency from 3 and finish with authority on the break. He is a tremendous defender on the ball. He played college basketball at College of the Sequoias Junior College:from 1996-1998 and then transferred to Metropolitan St. (NCAA2): and played there from 1998-2000. He started his professional basketball career in 2001 in the Uk for the Solent Stars (United Kingdom-NBLConf): 31 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assist. In 2002-2003, came his first tour of duty in Germany for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-Regionalliga): 24.7ppg, 9.2rpg, 6.7apg, 3.5spg. In 2003-2004, he played for the Ulriken Eagles (Norway-BNLO): Regular Season: 14 games: 20,1ppg, 8,1rpg, 2,5apg, 2,9spg, 0,4bpg.In 2004-2005, he was back in Germany playing for BSG Grevenbroich (Germany-2.Bundesliga): 30 games: Score-5 (26.0ppg), 7.7rpg, Ast-4 (5.4apg), 1.7spg, 2FGP: 55.5%, 3FGP: 33.3%, FT: 63.6%. In 2005-2006, he played for InterCollege Etha Engomis (Cyprus-A1): only pre-season, then joined COOCOON Baskets Weiden (Germany-2.Bundesliga, starting five): 8 games: 15.6ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.0apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 51%, left in Jan.'06 and later that month signed at Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 21 games: 7.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 56.5%. In 2006-2007, he played for the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 31 games: 5.7ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 43.1%, 3FGP: 25.0%, FT: 55.9%. In 2007-2008, he played for USC Heidelberg (Germany-ProA, starting five): 14 games: 14.4ppg, 4.4rpg, Assists-5 (4.6apg), 2.3spg, 2FGP: 54%, 3FGP: 27.3%, FT: 58.5%, left in Jan.'08 due to shoulder injury, in Feb.'08 moved to Digibu Baskets Paderborn (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 13 games: 6.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg, 2FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 70.0%. Last season, he played in the PRO A for Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (Germany-ProA, starting five): 27 games: 16.9ppg, 7.1rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), 1.1spg, FGP: 51.8%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 62.8%. He spoke with eurobasket before the game against the Giessen 46ers April 15th

What is the most positive thing taken out of the Frankfurt loss? Possibly the fighting mentality of the team controling the game for 36 minutes against top team despite not having a Zwiener or Evans?

I think we did show that we can compete and play at a high level but we still got to figure out why we cant close out games. We have shown a lot of heart all season long and we play hard but overall it was a very dissapointing loss. We feel like we let another one get away from us.

How is your shoulder? At how much % will you be against Giessen?

My shoulder is getting better. I cant give a percentage but it feels a lot better than it did over the weekend.

The playoff road doesnt get any easier now. How is the team staying positive best?

We just have to stay positive and take it one game at a time. We know what we are trying to accomplish but we have to win and that is plain and simple. We arent out of the race but we need to win some games asap.

The next game is against the Giessen 46ers. What personal memories do you have from playing in Giessen previously with Bremerhaven and Paderborn?

I dont really like playing there. I havent won a game there and I also had my shoulder injury where I needed surgery from that gym. So my memories of playing there arent too good.

What is your memory form the 75-67 win against Giessen earlier in the season?

Not much to be honest, but I know they have changed their personalle a lot since that game. They added MJ and they have some great individual players not to mention a great coach in Steven Key

This should be an extremly competitive game since both teams need to win badly. What will be key in getting the win?

I think we have to play our game, play solid defense and control the boards. It will be a tough game though because they need it as much as we do.

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard has stated that he wont chnage the way he acts on the court despite getting suspensions. Is this the right attitude? Do you think its good for the league to have more of these type of players just to spruce up the league like Dennis Rodman did in the 90s?

Yea im happy he said that, they have so many stupid rules in the league now it is built that the referees control too much and then the top of the league is controlling too much to. If he doesnt wanna change good for him, he shouldnt.

Does Dwight Howard have any chance of winning the 2011 NBA MVP award?

No chance, everyone knows that the MVP award is gonna go to Derrick Rose out in Chicago.

The Miami Heat have said that they wont sign Eddie Curry for the post season. Would he fit into the Heat system?

No I dont think he would, even if he brings size i think he is a distraction and wouldnt fit in

Thanks for the chat John

Been a while - by Mike Scott
So, I've been away for quite some while. Sorry for my absence. Forgive me?

Update: The team (BG Goettingen Violets) is in the playoff hunt. We have one game left and really need to get this win to solidify a playoff spot. It's been a hectic year with so many ups and downs. Collectively and Individually. I've grown so much during this time on the court and off. This has been a great step in the advancement of my career. Through the storms of adversity and the sweet taste of success, growing into a man continues to happen.

We have a few days off from basketball because we don't play for another 10 days. I'm in the process, at this very moment, in deciding where I want to go. I was thinking Berlin, Germany. I have heard quite a few good things about the city and it's architecture. Also, I sort of want to 'spoil' myself and get something nice as an end of the season gift from me to me. But, before I go anywhere I need to get this apartment together. I'd never let it get out of control and too messy but at the moment it could use some tidying up. Wash these dishes, fold these clothes, and scrub the tub! This is why I need a woman! ;-)

Alright, so I won't keep you. I know you have other blogs to read. I WILL be around a lot more often than I have been. It's just been a busy period for the kid but I'll do better. PROMISE. God Bless and Take Care!

-Mike, BG's 'ROCKET-MAN'

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

GREECE

A1 Round 24: PAOK loses to Peristeri GS - by Eurobasket News
There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in A1.

The most important game in the last round took place in Athens between third ranked PAOK (14-10) and eighth ranked Peristeri GS (11-13) on Wednesday night. PAOK was defeated by Peristeri GS in a tough game on the road 72-77. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of PAOK. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But PAOK won third quarter 18-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for the former international forward Dimitris Papanikolaou (202-77) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 5 assists. Croatian guard Zoran Vrkic (200-87) contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Dionte Christmas (196-86, college: Temple) replied with 18 points and 4 assists for PAOK. Peristeri GS moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Panionios and Kavala. PAOK at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. Peristeri GS's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Athens to the arena Ilysiakos.
A1 top team - Olympiakos (24-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Kavala (11-13) 92-63. Worth to mention a quality performance of Serbian guard Milos Teodosic (195-87) who helped to win the game recording 9 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and Loukas Mavrokefalides who added 15 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) during the contest. The best for the losing side was forward Nikos Angelopoulos (205-84) with 15 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Undefeated Olympiakos have an impressive 24-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 24-0 record. Kavala at the other side dropped to the seventh place with 13 games lost. They share the position with Peristeri GS and Panionios. Olympiakos' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Athens Panathinaikos.
Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Marousi (12-12) and Ilysiakos (7-17), which took place in Athens. Higher ranked Marousi lost to thirteenth ranked Ilysiakos in a road game 62-73 on Wednesday. The winners were led by Alexis Kiritsis who scored that evening 19 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. Ilysiakos' coach Kostas Flevarakis used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 11 points and 7 assists by Yannis Gagaloudis did not help to save the game for Marousi. Ilysiakos moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with AEK. Marousi lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. They share it with VAP Kolossos. Ilysiakos' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Athens Peristeri GS.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 24: Panionios beat Iraklis on the road 59-52. Aris won against AEK on its own court 78-74. Ikaros was outscored by Panathinaikos in Athens 92-70. VAP Kolossos managed to beat Panellinios at home 66-52.

Peristeri GS - PAOK 77-72

The most important game in the last round took place in Athens between third ranked PAOK (14-10) and eighth ranked Peristeri GS (11-13) on Wednesday night. PAOK was defeated by Peristeri GS in a tough game on the road 72-77. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of PAOK. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But PAOK won third quarter 18-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a good game for the former international forward Dimitris Papanikolaou (202-77) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 5 assists. Croatian guard Zoran Vrkic (200-87) contributed with 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Dionte Christmas (196-86, college: Temple) replied with 18 points and 4 assists and Croatian forward Zvonko Buljan (206-87, college: TCU) added 11 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for PAOK. Four Peristeri GS and five PAOK players scored in double figures. Peristeri GS moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Panionios and Kavala. PAOK at the other side keeps the third position with ten games lost. Peristeri GS's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Athens to the arena Ilysiakos.
Top scorers:
Peristeri GS: D.Papanikolaou 20+4reb+5ast, Z.Vrkic 16+5reb+3ast, A.Petroulas 11+2reb+3ast, E.Mantzaris 10+4reb+3ast, E.Scott 9+1reb+1ast, D.Woodward 5+1reb
PAOK: D.Christmas 18+4reb+4ast, R.Marshall 13+4reb+3ast, T.Gechevski 11+7reb, D.Stiggers 11+3reb+1ast, Z.Buljan 11+8reb+1ast, R.Dozier 6+3reb+4ast

Iraklis - Panionios 52-59

No shocking result in a game when ninth ranked Panionios (11-13) beat bottom-ranked Iraklis (5-19) in Thessaloniki 59-52 on Wednesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Iraklis won third quarter 13-8. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Panionios held Iraklis to an opponent 23.5 percent shooting from the field compared to 36.1 percent accuracy of the winners. The winners were led by power forward Giorgos Tsiaras (207-82) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds and naturalized Serbian forward Vladimir Jankovic (202-90) supported him with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Panionios' coach Giorgos Bartzokas used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 16 points by forward Giannis Demertzis (194-83) did not help to save the game for Iraklis. Naturalized Serbian swingman Vladimir Petrovic-Stergiou (198-77, agency: BeoExcell) added 11 points and 8 rebounds. Panionios moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Peristeri GS and Kavala. Iraklis lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom position with 19 games lost. Panionios will meet at home higher ranked Aris (#4) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Iraklis will play against Ikaros (#11) in Kalitheas and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Panionios: V.Jankovic 15+10reb+1ast, G.Tsiaras 14+10reb+2ast, R.Covile 11+7reb+2ast, M.Batis 7+4reb+3ast, H.Giannopoulos 4, M.Paragios 2+2reb
Iraklis: G.Demertzis 16+2reb+2ast, V.Petrovic-Stergiou 11+8reb+1ast, V.Angelakopoulos 7+10reb, D.Marmarinos 5+1reb, D.Despos 4+5reb+1ast, T.Tzakopoulos 4+1reb

Aris - AEK 78-74

Very expected game when 12th ranked AEK (7-17) lost to fourth ranked Aris (13-11) in Thessaloniki 74-78 on Wednesday. However just four-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. AEK trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 20-13 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 74-78 at the end of the game. Aris made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. The winners were led by guard Kosta Charalampidis (189-76) who scored that evening 18 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Christos Tapoutos (208-82) supported him with 14 points and 8 rebounds. Aris' coach Slobodan Subotic used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Even 12 points and 6 rebounds by the former international power forward Dimos Dikoudis (207-77) did not help to save the game for AEK. American-Bosnian guard Terell Castle (182-72, college: Nicholls St., agency: Court Side) added 11 points and 4 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Aris have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 13-11 record. Loser AEK keeps the twelfth place with 17 games lost. They share the position with Ilysiakos. Aris will meet Panionios (#9) in the next round where they are favorite. AEK will play against Marousi and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Aris: K.Charalampidis 18+5reb+2ast, N.Hatzivrettas 14+2reb+1ast, B.Brown 14+3reb+4ast, C.Tapoutos 14+8reb+2ast, B.Winters 8+1reb, J.Thomas 6+3reb
AEK: V.Mandic 13+3ast, D.Dikoudis 12+6reb, T.Castle 11+3reb+4ast, N.Papanikolaou 11+3reb+2ast, J.Hart 8+5reb+2ast, P.Nikolaidis 7+3reb+3ast

Ilysiakos - Marousi 73-62

Worth to mention about the upset in a game between Marousi (12-12) and Ilysiakos (7-17), which took place in Athens. Higher ranked Marousi lost to thirteenth ranked Ilysiakos in a road game 62-73 on Wednesday. The winners were led by guard Alexis Kiritsis (198-82) who scored that evening 19 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals and American power forward Mark Dawson (206-83, college: Long Beach St., agency: Tank Sports) supported him with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Ilysiakos' coach Kostas Flevarakis used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 11 points and 7 assists by guard Yannis Gagaloudis (191-78) did not help to save the game for Marousi. Croatian center Dalibor Bagaric (217-80) added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ilysiakos moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with AEK. Marousi lost third consecutive game. They keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. They share it with VAP Kolossos. Ilysiakos' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Athens Peristeri GS.
Top scorers:
Ilysiakos: A.Kiritsis 19+9reb+4ast, T.Grant 14+2reb+3ast, M.Dawson 13+8reb+1ast, A.Karydas 11+1reb+1ast, M.Todic 8+1reb, H.NaNa 5+4reb+1ast
Marousi: D.Bagaric 13+6reb+3ast, Y.Gagaloudis 11+4reb+7ast, D.Haritopoulos 10+3reb+3ast, C.Sumpter 10+3reb, F.Kojadinovic 9+3reb+1ast, E.Basden 5+4reb+1ast

Panathinaikos - Ikaros 92-70

Very predictable result when second ranked Panathinaikos (23-1) rolled over 11th ranked Ikaros (9-15) in Athens 92-70 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Panathinaikos. Ikaros managed to win fourth quarter 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 24-of-30 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game, while Ikaros only scored four points from the stripe. They outrebounded Ikaros 37-26 including 28 on the defensive glass. The winners were led by the former international forward Antonis Fotsis (210-81) who scored that evening 12 points and international swingman Stratos Perperoglou (203-84) supported him with 9 points and 5 rebounds. Even 18 points and 5 rebounds by American guard Lans Harris (195-83, college: Kansas St.) did not help to save the game for Ikaros. The former international guard Giannis Kalambokis (195-78, agency: FCM) added 14 points. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Panathinaikos have an impressive 12-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position with 23-1 record behind leader Olympiakos. Newly promoted Ikaros dropped to the tenth place with 15 games lost. They share the position with Panellinios. Panathinaikos' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Athens to the arena Olympiakos.
Top scorers:
Panathinaikos: A.Fotsis 12+4reb+3ast, M.Tepic 11+2reb, A.Maric 9+4reb+1ast, S.Perperoglou 9+5reb+2ast, D.Diamantidis 9+2reb+3ast, K.Tsartsaris 9+3reb
Ikaros: L.Harris 18+5reb+3ast, G.Kalambokis 14+1reb+1ast, K.McAlarney 11+3ast, D.Thompson 7+4reb, B.Krasic 4+2reb+1ast, M.Polytarchou 3+3reb+5ast

Kavala - Olympiakos 63-92

A1 top team - Olympiakos (24-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Kavala (11-13) 92-63. The game without a history. Olympiakos led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Kavala's 26. Olympiakos forced 19 Kavala turnovers and outrebounded them 36-24 including 23 on the defensive glass. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Kavala's players. Worth to mention a quality performance of Serbian guard Milos Teodosic (195-87) who helped to win the game recording 9 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and international center Loukas Mavrokefalides (207-84) who added 15 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) during the contest. Four Olympiakos players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was forward Nikos Angelopoulos (205-84) with 15 points and American power forward Cedric Simmons (206-86, college: N.Carolina St.) scored 8 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Olympiakos have an impressive 24-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 24-0 record. Kavala at the other side dropped to the seventh place with 13 games lost. They share the position with Peristeri GS and Panionios. Olympiakos' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Athens Panathinaikos.
Top scorers:
Olympiakos: L.Mavrokefalides 15+5reb+1ast, I.Bourousis 12+7reb+1ast, M.Keselj 11+2reb+1ast, A.Glyniadakis 10+5reb, Z.Erceg 10+2reb+1ast, G.Jamon Lukas 10+1reb+6ast
Kavala: N.Angelopoulos 15+4reb, B.Jorovic 10+2reb+1ast, C.Simmons 8+6reb, C.Kostov 7+2reb+2ast, C.Papanikolaou 6+1reb+2ast, C.Stefanidis 5+1reb+2ast

VAP Kolossos - Panellinios 66-52

Not a big story in a game when 10th ranked Panellinios (9-15) lost to seventh ranked VAP Kolossos (12-12) in Rodou 52-66 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 6 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 66-52. VAP Kolossos dominated on the defensive end, holding Panellinios to just 4 points in second quarter. The winners were led by naturalized American swingman Pat Kalathis (208-85, college: St.Joseph's) who scored that evening 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and power forward Kostas Charissis (211-79, college: USC, agency: Impact Basketball) supported him with 10 points and 7 rebounds. Four VAP Kolossos players scored in double figures. Even 17 points and 9 rebounds by American forward Torin Francis (210-83, college: Notre Dame) did not help to save the game for Panellinios. Forward Vangelis Sklavos (202-77) added 12 points. Panellinios' coach Thanasis Skourthopoulos rotated eleven players and allowed the starting five to rest. VAP Kolossos moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Marousi. Loser Panellinios keeps the tenth position with 15 games lost. They share it with Ikaros. VAP Kolossos will meet higher ranked PAOK (#3) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Panellinios will play against Kavala (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
VAP Kolossos: P.Kalathis 12+7reb+4ast, A.Tsamis 11+3reb+2ast, K.Charissis 10+7reb+1ast, N.Pappas 10+3reb+1ast, A.Asimakopoulos 8+5reb, P.Kafkis 8+1reb+5ast
Panellinios: T.Francis 17+9reb+1ast, V.Sklavos 12+2reb+1ast, E.Papamakarios 12+1reb+2ast, S.Smith 5+4reb, V.Xanthopoulos 4+4reb+3ast, D.Ostojic 1+1reb

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

Rawle MARSHALL
  PAOK
  (201-G-82)
  Avg: 17.2

1. Marshall, PAOK	17.2
2. Smith, Panellinios	16.9
3. Palacio, Kavala	15.9
4. Baxter, Ilysiakos	15.9
5. Kalathis, VAP K.	15.0
6. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos	14.4
7. Thompson, Ikaros	14.3
8. Harris, Ikaros	13.9
9. Jorovic, Kavala	13.9
10. King, Peristeri GS	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10

1. Simmons, Kavala	10.0
2. Thompson, Ikaros	8.7
3. Bagaric, Marousi	8.4
4. Kalathis, VAP K.	8.4
5. Smith, Panellinios	8.2
6. Papadopoulos, PAOK	7.5
7. Tucker, Aris	7.4
8. Looby, Peristeri GS	7.2
9. Elonu, Panionios	6.6
10. Bourousis, Olympiakos	6.5

Assists Per Game

Jared JORDAN
  VAP Kolossos
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Jordan, VAP K.	5.9
2. Spanoulis, Olympiakos	5.6
3. Teodosic, Olympiakos	4.8
4. Diamantidis, Panath.	4.5
5. Karydas, Ilysiakos	4.0
6. Papaloukas, Olymp.	3.9
7. Palacio, Kavala	3.8
8. Xanthopoulos, Panell.	3.8
9. Parker, Iraklis	3.4
10. Gagaloudis, Marousi	3.4

Steals Per Game

Smush PARKER
  Iraklis
  (193-G-81)
  Avg: 2

1. Parker, Iraklis	2.0
2. Grundy, AEK	1.9
3. Baxter, Ilysiakos	1.8
4. Papaloukas, Olymp.	1.8
5. Karydas, Ilysiakos	1.7
6. Xanthopoulos, Panell.	1.7
7. Marshall, PAOK	1.6
8. Papamakarios, Panell.	1.6
9. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos	1.4
10. Jamon Lukas, Olymp.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Simmons, Kavala	1.9
2. Bagaric, Marousi	1.8
3. Elonu, Panionios	1.7
4. Thompson, Ikaros	1.3
5. Looby, Peristeri GS	1.1
6. Nesterovic, Olymp.	0.9
7. Dunston, Aris	0.9
8. Harissis, VAP K.	0.7
9. Gechevski, PAOK	0.7
10. Thomas, Aris	0.7

Standings - A1

A1 Standings

1. Olympiakos		24-0
2. Panathinaikos		23-1
3. PAOK		14-10
4. Aris		13-11
5. VAP Kolossos		12-12
6. Marousi		12-12
7. Peristeri GS		11-13
8. Kavala		11-13
9. Panionios		11-13
10. Panellinios		9-15
11. Ikaros		9-15
12. AEK		7-17
13. Ilysiakos		7-17
14. Iraklis		5-19

Week 23 - Divison B' Results and Scorers - by Chris Mammides
N. Kifisia - Ermis Perama 77-67
In the derby of the week 23 the home team of N. Kifisia beat at the end quite easily but never covered the first rounds 91-74 defeat in any case the game was a derby from the 15th minute and onwards as at the beginning the home team mainly with Hopson and Nikitakis surprised Coach Kalambakos team and took a double digits difference. Nikos Liakopoulos (191-G-83) did his best but the other key players like Skoutaris didnt help him at all, the only player to assist him was the youngster Motsenigos in his best game this season, making a seasons high with his 14 points
Quarters: 22-13, 42-34, 52-47, 77-67.
N. Kifisia: Nikitakis 13, Hopson 16, Limperopoulos 15
Perama: Motsenigos 14 Nikos Liakopoulos 38

Diagoras Rodou - OFI 87-82
In the islanders derby, Diagoras had a magnificent Vasilis Ekine (201-F-83) with a new seasons high and beat the team of OFI which showed an offensive pluralism but it was not enough to beat the furious Ekine. Five players from OFI ended the game with double digits. The game was a derby from the early start with the visiting site of OFI taking the lead most of the first half but Ekine in the third quarter was unstoppable and gave to his team a deficit of as many as 12 points to end the game finally with a reserved game in the last quarter to five
Quarters: 18-19, 41-43, 58-49, 87-82.
Diagoras Rodou: Ekine 28, Panagiotarakos and Pardakas 10 per head.
OFI: Xenakis, Sakis Panagakis (191-G-83) and Tsakiridis 14 per head, Bardas 12 and Balafas 10

AIAS Evosmou Aiolos Triakllon 67-65
A very strong derby we saw in the last quarter of the game in Evosmos as most of the rest was a monologue of the home team, in the fourth quarter Giorgos Lepeniotis (187-G-79) tried to give the added value to his team but he was alone in this so he couldnt do a lot against Giorgos Asimakis (195-F-83) and his pals
Quarters: 20-12, 36-30, 52-43, 67-65.
AIAS Evosmou: Giorgos Asimakis 23, Georgoulas 13
Aiolos Triakallon: Giorgos Lepeniotis 17, Triantafillou 10, Perotis 13.

Stratoni Doxa Lefkadas 52-56
The road win that Doxa Lefkadas was looking the last three-four weeks took place finally against Stratoni. The team of Coach Mythou seems to lose interest for the league as the last month its players do not performed as expected. In any case Doxa took the initiatives from the early beginning and even though the home team balanced the game at the end the power forward/center Nikos Lymparis-Psomas (210-C-84) scored some decisive baskets which were crucial and gave the victory to the visitors
Quarters: 7-17, 22-25, 43-43, 52-56.
Stratoni: Kismetoglou 10, Paritsis 13
Doxa Lefkadas: Mitsakis 12, Nikos Lymparis-Psomas 16.

M.Alexandros Apollon Kalamrias 78-83
In his best game with Apollon Kalamarias, the veteran Georgios Pavlidis (206-F-78) helped his team to achieve a very important road win, a win which could be as decisive as one division since with the specific victory Apollon Kalamarias did the 2-0 against M. Alexandros and push him once and for all in the third division while is now over Egaleo which is in direct danger for a new relegation to the Third division. Tassos Dimas (195-F/C-88) gave his best shot as all the year now but he was once more feeling lonely as Giannis Karouzos (200-F-82) who helped at the end it was too late
Quarters: 19-20, 36-41, 60-63, 78-83.
M. Alexandros: Tassos Dimas 28, Kelesidis 13, Karagiolidis 12, Giannis Karouzos 19
Apollon Kalamarias: Dallis 15, Kouparakis 10, Tanakidis 13, Georgios Pavlidis 26

MENT - Egaleo 72-70
A closed derby took place in Thessaloniki with the home team finally succeeding a crucial win and the visitors feeling the danger of a new relegation being wide open another one season. Giorgos Filiousis (198-G-77) was the top performer for the home team while Angelos Sirtistatidis (190-G-78) gave his best shot but it was not enough
Quarters: 16-15, 33-31, 57-53, and 72-70.
MENT: Triantafillidis 13, Dalpas 15, Giorgos Filiousis 26, Ioakeimidis 13
Egaleo: Gkeros 14, Angelos Sirtistatidis 20 Koukkouras 14.

Filippos Veroias Anagennisi Flogas 86-86 in OT 100-105
An NBA game took place in Veroia where the home team played its last cards to survive but unfortunately for them, they lost a game of their own in the extra five minutes. Six players from each team had double digits with Spiropoulos of the visiting site being the top scorer with 21.
Quarters: 21-24, 43-40, 63-62, 86-86, and 100-105.
Filippos Veroias: Bataoulas 13, V. Mavridis 17, Tsakiris 14, A. Mavridis 18, Kotsambasis 12, Iosifidis 17
Anagennisi Floga: Lefteris Galanidis (188-G-87) 22, Zotos 10, Thrasyvoulos Sfeikos (195-G-85) 20, Kothras 18, Spiropoulos 21, Foutsitzis 11.

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

IBL

Albany Legends Gallup Back Home - by John Gary
special thanks to oursportscentral.com Gloversville native EJ GALLUP will enjoy a capital region homecoming on the basketball court when the ALBANY LEGENDS open their IBL season against the KanKakee Soldiers friday night at 7pm at Christian Brothers Academy.For some of these players and maybe the franchise itself this might be the last call. There were not enough fans and too much overhead. Costs have been slashed and veteran coach Derrick Rowland has been replaced by newcommer BEN SMITH and more importantly the team has moved from the city to the subrubs.

Deandre Thomas returning to Albany Legends for 2011 IBL Season - by Trask Frost
For Immediate Release - Former Indiana Hoosier and member of the 2010 IBL Champion, Albany Legends, Deandre Thomas has agreed to terms for the 2011 season and will arrive in Albany in time for the home opener at Christian Brothers Academy on Friday, April 15 at 7 pm against the Kankakee (Illinois) Soldiers.

The 6' 8'', 295 lbs F/C played in 22 games for the Albany Legends in 2010 and averaged 16.4 ppg and 8.8 rebounds. A big factor in the legendary championship win on July 16 vs. the Bellingham Slam, Thomas dominated the boards while scoring a strong double-double with 21 points and 19 rebounds in 24 minutes .

'Deandre brings size, strength, dominance and athleticism to any ball team. To the Legends he brings all those things as well as leadership and heart. He is truly a Legend and we are thrilled that he will wearing #44 for us again this year'; the Legend fan favorite arrives in Albany on Thursday.

Contact Ben Smith, Legends Head Coach at 519-470-5743 with questions.

IBL's Lansing Capitals announce 2011 roster - by Trask Frost
Lansing Capitals owner Reynardo Jefferson announces the Capitals roster for 2011:

Johnathan Battle G 6' 1' Madonna Jc
Marcus Jackson G 6' 3' St. Xavier
Andre De Florimonte G 6' 2' Jarvis Christian CC
Maurice Benson G 6' 0' I ndiana Tech Jc
Jason Franklin G 6' 3' Lansing CC
Jarell Pennyamon G 6' 3' Northwood
Joseph Young G 6' 2' Central Missouri
Elzie Bibbs F 6' 6' Livingstone
Brynell Jones F 6' 6' Jarvis Christian CC
Carlos Gill F 6' 7' Southern Miss.
Marcus Skinner F 6' 7' N/A
Roc Dillard F 6' 6' Grand Rapids CC
Jeff Smith F 6' 8' Spring Harbor
James Williams C 6' 10' N/A

Head Coach for the Capitals is Dale Beard with assistant coaches Mark Hartung and Mike McAllister. For more information on the Capitals or the International Basketball League, visit www.IBLhoopsonline.com

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

ICELAND

Eurobasket.com All-Icelandic D1 Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

Eurobasket.com All-Icelandic D1 1st Team 2010-11

Flake

Wooten

Palm

Tota

Asgeirsson

Player of the Year: Darrell Flake (193-F-80) of Skallagrimur
Guard of the Year: Calvin Wooten (186-PG-84) of Valur
Forward of the Year: Darrell Flake (193-F-80) of Skallagrimur
Center of the Year: Odinn Asgeirsson (197-C-79) of Thor AK
Bosman Player of the Year: Konrad Tota (195-F-80) of Thor AK
Import Player of the Year: Darrell Flake (193-F-80) of Skallagrimur
Domestic Player of the Year: Thorsteinn Gunnlaugsson (190-F-82) of Breidablik
Coach of the Year: Benedikt Gudmundsson of Thor Thorl

1st Team
PG: Calvin Wooten (186-84) of Valur
G: Eric Palm (188-87) of Thor Thorl
F: Darrell Flake (193-80) of Skallagrimur
F: Konrad Tota (195-80) of Thor AK
C: Odinn Asgeirsson (197-79) of Thor AK

2nd Team
PG: Daniel Terrell (186-83) of Hottur
PG: Baldur Ragnarsson (182-90) of Thor Thorl
F: Thorsteinn Gunnlaugsson (190-82) of Breidablik
F: Vladimir Bulut (200-87) of Thor Thorl
F: Olafur Torfason (194-87) of Thor AK

Honorable Mention
Hafthor Gunnarsson (183-PG-81) of Skallagrimur
Mateusz Zowa (206-C) of Skallagrimur
Valur Valsson (181-G-94) of FSU
Vidar Orn Hafsteinsson (190-F/G-85) of Hottur
Bjarni Bjarnason (184-G-85) of Laugdaelir
Thorsteinn Ragnarsson (187-G-93) of Thor Thorl
Wesley Hsu (191-G) of Thor AK
Hordur Hreidarsson (203-C-88) of Valur
Jon H. Baldvinsson (191-F-84) of Laugdaelir

All-Domestic Players Team
PG: Baldur Ragnarsson (182-90) of Thor Thorl
G: Valur Valsson (181-94) of FSU
F: Thorsteinn Gunnlaugsson (190-82) of Breidablik
F: Olafur Torfason (194-87) of Thor AK
C: Odinn Asgeirsson (197-79) of Thor AK

All-Imports/Bosman Team
Daniel Terrell (186-PG-83) of Hottur
Calvin Wooten (186-PG-84) of Valur
Eric Palm (188-G-87) of Thor Thorl
Darrell Flake (193-F-80) of Skallagrimur
Konrad Tota (195-F-80) of Thor AK
Vladimir Bulut (200-F-87) of Thor Thorl

Standings - 1 Division

D1 Standings

1. Thor Thorl		17-1
2. Thor AK		13-5
3. Valur		12-6
4. Skallagrimur		12-6
5. Breidablik		11-7
6. FSU		10-8
7. Hottur		5-13
8. Laugdaelir		4-14
9. Armann		3-15
10. Leiknir		3-15

Express L. Round 2 of Finals. Stjarnan level series - by Eurobasket News
Stjarnan - KR 107-105

Stjarnan caught up with KR in the championship series. They eked out a tough home victory tonight. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 26-20. But KR won second period 32-28. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Stjarnan won last quarter 26-26. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 29 personal fouls committed by KR helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. FYR Macedonian forward Jovan Zdravevski (197-80) scored 25 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Justin Shouse (180-81, college: Mercyhurst) chipped in 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) during the contest. Five Stjarnan players scored in double figures. American guard Marcus Walker (186-86, college: Colorado St., agency: 011 Sports) responded with 34 points (!!!) and 6 assists and the former international guard Brynjar Bjoernsson (191-88, college: Francis Marion) scored 32 points.
Top scorers:
Stjarnan: J.Zdravevski 25+8reb+5ast, J.Shouse 22+5reb+6ast, R.Lindmets 19+7reb+6ast, M.Valdimarsson 15+5reb+3ast, D.Guamundsson 11+2reb, F.Helgason 10+2reb+1ast
KR: M.Walker 34+2reb+6ast, B.Bjoernsson 32+3reb+2ast, F.Magnusson 13+7reb+1ast, H.Magnusson 9+4reb+3ast, P.Ermolinskij 8+14reb+6ast, J.Kristjansson 6+6reb

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Marcus WALKER
  KR
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 24.9

1. Walker, KR	24.9
2. Sanders, Keflavik	22.6
3. Inge, Haukar	21.8
4. Biedler, IR	21.7
5. Bartolotta, IR	21.6
6. Dabney, Hamar	21.1
7. Robinson, Haukar	21.0
8. Sovic, IR	21.0
9. Smith, Njardvik	20.9
10. Fain, Tindastoll	20.0

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Robinson, Haukar	13.7
2. Biedler, IR	12.4
3. Ermolinskij, KR	11.5
4. Pettinella, Grindavik	11.3
5. Fain, Tindastoll	10.1
6. Stywall, Fjolnir	9.8
7. Amoroso, Snaefell	9.6
8. Jonsson, Snaefell	9.0
9. Nathanaelsso., Ham.	8.3
10. Smith, Njardvik	8.1

Assists Per Game

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

1. Steinarsson, Fjolnir	8.7
2. Ermolinskij, KR	7.9
3. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.	7.3
4. Burton, Snaefell	6.5
5. Shouse, Stjarnan	6.2
6. Haraldsson, Haukar	5.6
7. Arnarson, Hamar	5.3
8. Inge, Haukar	5.2
9. Schoen, KFI	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. Dabney, Hamar	2.9
4. Fain, Tindastoll	2.9
5. Kitanovic, Tindastoll	2.5
6. Biedler, IR	2.5
7. Vilhjalmsson, Kefla.	2.5
8. Steinarsson, Fjolnir	2.3
9. Ermolinskij, KR	2.3
10. Arnarson, Hamar	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. Inge, Haukar	1.4
6. Thorsteinsso., Kefla.	1.4
7. Savarsson, Grind.	1.4
8. Magnusson, KR	1.4
9. Pettinella, Grindavik	1.3
10. Lindmets, Stjarnan	1.2

Standings - D1 League

D1 League Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1 Wooten, Valur 28.6
2 Flake, Skallag 23.7
3 Palm, Th.Th. 23.5
4 Tota, Th.Ak 22.7
5 Valsson, FSu 22.4

Rebounds Per Game

1 Gunnlaugsson, Br 13.9
2 Torfason, ThorAk 11.9
3 Sowa, Skall 11.7
4 Flake, Skall 11.2
5 Asgeirsson, ThAk 10.8

Assists Per Game

1 Ragnarsson, ThTh 6.5
2 Valsson, FSu 5.8
3 Petursson, Breid 5.2
4 Terrell, Hottur 5.1
5 Tota, Thor Ak 4.4

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ISRAEL

ISRAELI PLAYOFFS WILL BEGIN IN TWO WEEKS - by David Pick
The Israeli playoffs will be on their way shortly (28.4), as the current champions Hapoel Galil/Gilboa and 1st place seed Maccabi Tel-Aviv appear to be in the best of shape entering the final round the regular season next week. 3rd place seed Hapoel Jerusalem (has a one game advantage over Galil/Gilboa) suffered a tough home lose last night to 6th seed Maccabi Ashdod, 86:78. Lee Nailon and Shawn James' 4th seed Bnei Hasharon marked another 'W' on their victory column after pulling out a crucial 92:90 home victory over 9th seed Maccabi Haifa, who will fight last seed Ironi Ashkelon for the right to play in division 1 next season as well.

Maccabi T'A (1) Elitzur Netanya (8)

Euroleague Final Four contender Maccabi T'A will face up against 8th seed Elitzur Netanya for the 5th time this season after demolishing the Netanya squad in three different league games, and in the Israeli state cup finals with a total of 120 points in point differential. Estimated outcome 3:0 sweep for David Blatt's team.

Galil/Gilboa (If they win next week 2) - Hapoel Holon (7)

Coach Lior Lubin in his first year standing on the side lines has put on a show. The northern Israeli team and defending champions have struggled throughout the season, but after acquiring Courtney Fells, Tyrell Biggs and trading Tyler Wilkerson for Marco Killingsworth, the red team has been on a crazy winning streak including 5 straight victories and 7 of their last 8 games, defeating anything and anyone standing in their way including key victories over 3rd and 4th and 5th seed H. Jerusalem, Bnei Hasharon and Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion

The mastermind of Hapoel Holon, Danny Franco, has managed to do what no other coach in Israeli basketball has done win under terrible conditions, and win convincingly. After losing star center Jamie Arnold early in the season for a few months due to an injury, releasing star guard Robert Hite and no less than 4 other players due to financial problems along with facing club closer one too many times, Franco has managed to steady the rocking boat. Holon, who will play Galil/Gilboa next week for the third a final time during the regular season, will try and beat the red hot team for the first time this year, and eliminate them in the playoffs. Estimated outcome 3:1 in favor of Galil/Gilboa.

Hapoel Jerusalem (3) Maccabi Ashdod (6)

What a terrible season has falling over the nation's capital squad. Jerusalem, with the second largest budget in the league has not managed to create one positive streak of momentum this whole season. Despite signing the undoubted all time king of Jerusalem, Willie Solomon and former NBA player Jawad Williams, Jerusalem has yet to excel in probably any parameter. With two national point guards on their side (Yuval Naimy and Yogev Ohayon), Jerusalem has suffered many ups and downs in their back court this season as no one has been able to step up to the plate.

Hapoel dropped yet again another home victory to visiting Ashdod and their streak of loses continues. The major headache that coach Oded Katash is facing is that he will probably have to meet Ashdod yet again in the playoffs for a right to play in the Israeli final Four. Ashdod's stars Josh Carter and Josh Duncan along with Israeli veteran point guard Meir Tapiro (Tap-Hero) have beaten Jerusalem twice already this season and won't back down from any battle. Tapiro still has his eye and goals on shaking Israeli prime minister hand for the first time in his career after winning the league title award; however, the road begins against Jerusalem. Estimated outcome Jerusalem will advance with 3:2 records.

Bnei Hasharon (4) Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion (5)

Effi Birnbaum will enjoy himself throughout this series. The Israeli coach will go up against not only his former club and true love, rather against his former star player Lee Nailon, who helped Birnbaum beat Maccabi in the Israeli semi final round of the state cup a few years ago. A superb season granting the coach the most prestigious job in Israeli basketball, being the head coach of Maccabi T'A has only damaged his image, as he decided to take the remainder of that season off. The fact the Birnbaum did not take a deserved player in the likes of Nailon with him to the Israeli power house, might have coasted him his job, as he was let off only a few weeks into the season. Now, Nailon is in for his on-court revenge.

Nailon and his teammates will also enjoy a 2:1 advantage league record against the orange club as they battle for the 'privilege' to face Maccabi T'A in the semi finals of the Final Four. Estimated Outcome Birnbaum will congratulate Nailon for a great series as Bnei will advance will a 3:1 record.

Maccabi Haifa (9) Ironi Ashkelon (10)

This is definitely not what Haifa owner Jeff Rosen expected in the summer when establishing one of the most promising rosters in Israeli basketball in the 2010/11 season. Numerous injuries, three coaches changing positions and bad decision making in the final seconds of crucial games has brought Haifa to where it is right now. What is the bright side of this season for Haifa's management? The season is soon over.

Despite their terrible season, the last few weeks have been very positive for Haifa. Bad calls by referees took away what could have been a sensational win from Haifa as they dropped a 7 point advantage with 90 second remaining in Nokia arena against Maccabi, followed by a huge home blowout win over Hapoel Jerusalem. Lately, Haifa's management has shown great interest in resigning some of its players due to their hard work ethics and team commitment. On the other side of the country, down south, Ashkelon is hopping as well to end the season, but not to start the next one in division 2. Rodney Green (16 points & 5 rebounds), Gur Porat (15 points & 8 rebounds), Dror Hagag (14 points, 7 rebounds & 7 assists) along with Corry Carr (13 points and 4 assists) recorded a big road win last night over Holon, however it wasnt enough, as the blue and white team remains the last seed. Estimated outcome Haifa will remain in division 1 with a 3:1 series record.

Standings - BSL

Premier League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A		24-1
2. Galil Gilboa		16-9
3. Hapoel J-M		15-11
4. Bnei Hasharon		15-11
5. Maccabi Rishon		13-13
6. Maccabi Ashdod		13-13
7. Hapoel Holon		11-15
8. Elitzur Netanya		9-17
9. Maccabi Haifa		7-18
10. Ironi Ashkelon		6-20

Stats Leaders - National League

Points Per Game

Brian ASBURY
  Hapoel T-A
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 27.4

1. Asbury, Hapoel T-A	27.4
2. Hall, Beer Yaakov	24.3
3. Moragne, Hapoel B.	23.4
4. Clemente, Megido.	23.3
5. Miller, Megido/Y.	22.6
6. Delaney, Maccabi .	21.2
7. Timberlake, Elitzu.	21.1
8. Young, Hod Hasharon	20.8
9. Gomez, Beer Yaakov	20.6
10. Brown, Maccabi HBK	20.2

Rebounds Per Game

Jason JOHNSON
  Ironi Nahariya
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.6

1. Johnson, Ironi N.	12.6
2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.	11.6
3. Clemente, Megido.	11.1
4. Brandy, Hod H.	10.1
5. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.	9.8
6. Wade, Lev Hasharon	9.1
7. Strong, Hapoel T.	9.0
8. McFarlin, Lev H.	9.0
9. Utter, Hapoel T-A	8.9
10. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne	8.9

Assists Per Game

Ofir FARHI
  Beer Yaakov
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 6.8

1. Farhi, Beer Yaakov	6.8
2. Dobie, Lev Hasharon	6.5
3. Lahat, Hapoel T-A	6.4
4. Bet-Yosef, Beer Y.	5.9
5. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula	5.7
6. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.	5.7
7. Fisher, Ironi R.	4.7
8. Timor, Hapoel Tivon	4.6
9. Berkowitz, Elitzu.	4.5
10. Davidi, Elitzur Ramla	4.4

Steals Per Game

Nate MILLER
  Megido/Yokneam
  (193-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Miller, Megido/Y.	3.1
2. Bochman, Beer Y.	2.6
3. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula	2.6
4. Delaney, Maccabi .	2.4
5. Markson, Hapoel A.	2.2
6. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.	2.1
7. Naor, Hapoel T-A	2.0
8. Fisher, Ironi R.	2.0
9. Sukar, Elitzur Ramla	2.0
10. Young, Hod Hasharon	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Shelton COLWELL
  Ironi Ramat Gan
  (202-C/F-80)
  Avg: 2

1. Colwell, Ironi R.	2.0
2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.	2.0
3. Strong, Hapoel T.	2.0
4. Utter, Hapoel T-A	2.0
5. Aidan, Hapoel Beeri	1.7
6. Johnson, Ironi N.	1.5
7. Hugee, Hapoel Afula	1.5
8. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne	1.4
9. Markson, Hapoel A.	1.2
10. Brandy, Hod H.	1.2

Lee Nailon was not offered a contract by KCC - by David Pick
Yesterday was published in the Israeli section on Eurobasket.com an article regarding contract and signing information between Lee Nailon (204-F/C-75, agency: Basket Law/NM Services, college: TCU) and the KCC S. Korean basketball organization.

The information that was writing and posted in the article regarding any contact between Lee Nailon and KCC is mistaken. It should be mentioned that KCC had never offered Nailon a contract. The information was misleading and concerned a different organization. The salary amount offered mentioned in the article was above that was discussed.
Eurobasket.com wishes to express its apologies to the KCC organization, as to Larry Fox, and readers.

Premier League Round 26 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Rishon (#5) forced the game against Galil Gilboa (#2) into an overtime, but lost by four points 84-88 on Thursday night. The game took place in Rishon Le-Zion. But the guests from Galil were better at the end. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Maccabi Rishon. Gal Mekel (193-PG-88, college: Wichita St.) scored 19 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists to lead the charge for the winners. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Galil Gilboa (16-9) have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position having eight points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Rishon at the other side keeps the fifth place with 13 games lost. Galil Gilboa will face Hapoel Holon (#7) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Maccabi Rishon will play against Maccabi Haifa.

The most impressive stats of the last round was 27 points and 7 rebounds by Josh Duncan of Maccabi Ashdod.

Hapoel Holon - Ironi Ashkelon 64-82

There was a minor upset when 7th ranked Hapoel Holon (11-15) was defeated at home by bottom-ranked Ironi Ashkelon (6-20) 82-64 on Thursday. The game without a history. Ironi Ashkelon led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The former international point guard Dror Hagag (178-78, agency: Avi Zilberman) scored 14 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists to lead the charge for the winners and swingman Gur Porat (197-79) chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Five Ironi Ashkelon players scored in double figures. American forward Kasib Powell (201-81, college: Texas Tech, agency: Court Side) responded with 16 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and his fellow American import power forward Rich Melzer (203-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal., agency: Court Side) scored 18 points. Ironi Ashkelon maintains tenth position with 6-20 record. Hapoel Holon at the other side keeps the seventh place with 15 games lost. Ironi Ashkelon will face league's leader Maccabi T-A in Tel-Aviv in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Ironi Ashkelon: R.Green 16+5reb+1ast, G.Porat 15+8reb+2ast, D.Hagag 14+7reb+7ast, C.Carr 13+1reb+4ast, E.Marckovich 11+7reb+3ast, T.Terrell 10+7reb+2ast
Hapoel Holon: R.Melzer 18+4reb+1ast, K.Powell 16+9reb+4ast, M.Roth 12+2reb+6ast, N.Cohen 8+6reb, J.Arnold 4+2reb+1ast, S.Daniel 4+1reb+3ast

Hapoel J-M - Maccabi Ashdod 78-86

There was a small surprise in Jerusalem where sixth ranked Maccabi Ashdod (13-13) defeated 3rd ranked Hapoel J-M (15-11) 86-78 on Thursday. Hapoel J-M trailed by 12 points after 3 quarters before a 24-20 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 78-86 at the end of the game. Maccabi Ashdod made 21-of-25 free shots (84.0 percent) during the game. American power forward Josh Duncan (203-86) scored 27 points and 7 rebounds (was perfect 12-for-12 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import swingman Josh Carter (201-88, college: Texas A&M) chipped in 24 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Four Maccabi Ashdod players scored in double figures. American forward Brian Randle (203-85) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 11 rebounds and international point guard Yogev Ohayon (189-87) scored 11 points and 6 assists. Hapoel J-M's coach Oded Katash rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Maccabi Ashdod moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Maccabi Rishon. Hapoel J-M lost third consecutive game. They keep the third position with 11 games lost. Maccabi Ashdod will face higher ranked Bnei Hasharon (#4) in Hod Hasharon in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Hapoel J-M will play on the road against Elitzur Netanya.
Top scorers:
Maccabi Ashdod: J.Duncan 27+7reb+3ast, J.Carter 24+5reb+2ast, J.Martin 12+2reb, M.Tapiro 12+11reb+7ast, L.Gordon 6+3reb+1ast, N.Berkowitz 5+3reb+1ast
Hapoel J-M: B.Randle 15+11reb+1ast, D.Dowell 12+2reb, Y.Ohayon 11+2reb+6ast, W.Solomon 8+1reb+1ast, L.Hakmon 7+3reb, Y.Naimy 7+1reb+4ast

Maccabi T-A - Elitzur Netanya 92-60

Not a big story in a game in Tel-Aviv where 8th ranked Elitzur Netanya (9-17) was rolled over by first ranked Maccabi T-A (24-1) 92-60 on Thursday. The game without a history. Maccabi T-A led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Maccabi T-A outrebounded Elitzur Netanya 40-20 including a 31-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. American swingman Chuck Eidson (202-80, college: S.Carolina, agency: Court Side) scored 20 points and 7 assists (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and Serbian center Milan Macvan (206-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) chipped in 16 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Maccabi T-A players scored in double figures. point guard Shmuel Brener (188-81, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) responded with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and American forward Romeo Travis (201-84, college: Akron) scored 5 points, 7 rebounds and 5 blocks. Elitzur Netanya's coach Arik Alfasi gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Maccabi T-A have an impressive 18-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 24-1 record. Elitzur Netanya at the other side keeps the eighth place with 17 games lost. Maccabi T-A will face bottom-ranked Ironi Ashkelon (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Elitzur Netanya will play against Hapoel J-M in Jerusalem.
Top scorers:
Maccabi T-A: C.Eidson 20+4reb+7ast, M.Macvan 16+8reb+2ast, L.Eliyahu 15+5reb+1ast, T.Burstein 12+1reb+3ast, J.Pargo 11+4reb+4ast, D.Blu 10+5reb+1ast
Elitzur Netanya: S.Brener 18+7reb+4ast, A.Banks 11+1reb+1ast, T.Washam 9+1reb, E.Brown 5+2reb+2ast, R.Travis 5+7reb+2ast, J.Smith 4

Maccabi Rishon - Galil Gilboa 84-88 OT

Maccabi Rishon (#5) forced the game against Galil Gilboa (#2) into an overtime, but lost by four points 84-88 on Thursday night. The game took place in Rishon Le-Zion. But the guests from Galil were better at the end. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Maccabi Rishon. The guests trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 23-19 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 4-point victory in overtime. Galil Gilboa made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. International point guard Gal Mekel (193-88, college: Wichita St.) scored 19 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American power forward Warren Carter (205-85, college: Illinois) chipped in 21 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. Galil Gilboa's coach Lior Lubin used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. American power forward Raymar Morgan (202-88, college: Michigan St.) responded with 20 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) and his fellow American import swingman Dwayne Mitchell (196-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Galil Gilboa (16-9) have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains second position having eight points less than leader Maccabi T-A. Maccabi Rishon at the other side keeps the fifth place with 13 games lost. Galil Gilboa will face Hapoel Holon (#7) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Maccabi Rishon will play against Maccabi Haifa.
Top scorers:
Galil Gilboa: W.Carter 21+10reb+1ast, G.Mekel 19+7reb+9ast, C.Fells 15+5reb, M.Killingsworth 12+7reb+2ast, G.Israeli 6+2reb+5ast, I.Kozikaro 6+2reb+2ast
Maccabi Rishon: R.Morgan 20+7reb+2ast, D.Mitchell 18+5reb+2ast, A.McGhee 16+8reb, I.Swann 13+3reb+3ast, N.Hanochi 9+3reb+3ast, Y.Orland 8+2reb+4ast

Bnei Hasharon - Maccabi Haifa 92-90

Everything went according to plan in Hod Hasharon where fourth ranked Bnei Hasharon (15-11) edged 9th ranked Maccabi Haifa (7-18) 92-90 on Thursday. However just two-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 29-19. But Maccabi Haifa won third quarter 25-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bnei Hasharon shot 60.7 percent from the field and made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Bnei Hasharon had a 27-15 advantage in offensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Bnei Hasharon made 11 blocks. American power forward Lee Nailon (204-75, college: TCU, agency: Basket Law/NM Services) scored 27 points to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import point guard Ronald Steele (187-86, college: Alabama, agency: SportsTalent) chipped in 18 points and 4 assists during the contest. Naturalized American swingman Sylven Landesberg (198-90, college: Virginia) responded with 22 points, 6 assists and 5 steals and American point guard Germaine Jackson (195-76, college: Detroit Mercy, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Bnei Hasharon moved-up to third place, which they share with Hapoel J-M. Loser Maccabi Haifa keeps the ninth position with 18 games lost. Bnei Hasharon will face Maccabi Ashdod (#6) on the road in the next round. Maccabi Haifa will play against Maccabi Rishon in Rishon Le-Zion.
Top scorers:
Bnei Hasharon: L.Nailon 27+4reb+2ast, R.Steele 18+2reb+4ast, D.Grunfeld 16+3reb+1ast, F.Rivera 12+4reb+3ast, S.James 7+10reb+3ast, D.Assaf 5+1reb+1ast
Maccabi Haifa: S.Landesberg 22+3reb+6ast, T.Wilkerson 17+7reb, A.Ben-Chimol 13+1reb+1ast, G.Jackson 13+5reb+7ast, E.Kadir 12+4reb+1ast, F.Robinson 9+5reb+3ast

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

ITALY

Standings - SerieA

SerieA Standings

1. Montepaschi		22-2
2. Bennet Cantu		19-6
3. Armani MI		18-7
4. Benetton TV		13-12
5. Air AV		12-13
6. CS Bologna		12-13
7. Cimberio VA		12-13
8. Lottomatica		12-13
9. Pepsi Caserta		12-13
10. Scavolini PS		11-14
11. Dinamo Sassari		11-14
12. Vanoli CR		11-14
13. Fabi Shoes		10-15
14. Angelico BI		9-16
15. Banca Tercas		8-17
16. Enel Brindisi		7-17

Stats Leaders - SerieA

Points Per Game

James WHITE
  Dinamo Sassari
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 20.2

1. White, Dinamo Sassari	20.2
2. Thomas, Air AV	18.3
3. Ford, Fabi Shoes	16.3
4. Roberson, Enel B.	16.1
5. Zoroski, Banca T.	15.8
6. Dean, Air AV	15.7
7. Hunter, Dinamo S.	14.9
8. Goss, Cimberio VA	14.8
9. Troutman, Air AV	14.6
10. Lavrinovic, Montepas.	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	10.3
2. Davis, Banca Tercas	8.5
3. Troutman, Air AV	8.3
4. Jones, Pepsi C.	8.2
5. Homan, CS Bologna	8.1
6. Ivanov, Fabi Shoes	8.0
7. Lang, Enel Brindisi	7.9
8. Hunter, Dinamo S.	7.4
9. Suton, Angelico BI	7.4
10. Sekulic, Vanoli CR	7.0

Assists Per Game

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

1. Green, Air AV	6.8
2. Diener, Dinamo S.	4.7
3. Sosa, Angelico BI	4.4
4. Collins, Scavolin.	3.9
5. Rowland, Vanoli CR	3.9
6. Goss, Cimberio VA	3.8
7. Green, Bennet Cantu	3.7
8. Zoroski, Banca T.	3.7
9. Markovic, Benetton.	3.5
10. Rannikko, Cimberio.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Earl ROWLAND
  Vanoli CR
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Rowland, Vanoli CR	3.1
2. Troutman, Air AV	2.7
3. Thomas, Air AV	2.7
4. Green, Air AV	2.7
5. Stonerook, Montepas.	2.7
6. Ortner, Bennet C.	2.5
7. Dedovic, Lottomat.	2.5
8. Goss, Cimberio VA	2.5
9. Hawkins, Armani MI	2.5
10. White, Dinamo Sassari	2.5

Blocks Per Game

Sharrod FORD
  Fabi Shoes
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Ford, Fabi Shoes	2.2
2. Crosariol, Lottomat.	1.3
3. Toure, Enel Brindisi	1.2
4. Hunter, Dinamo S.	1.2
5. Cusin, Scavolini PS	1.0
6. Lang, Enel Brindisi	1.0
7. Szewczyk, Air AV	1.0
8. Polonara, Banca T.	1.0
9. Drozdov, Vanoli CR	0.9
10. Homan, CS Bologna	0.8

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

JORDAN

Standings - Premier League

Premier League Standings

1. ASU		12-0
2. Al Riyadi Am.		9-2
3. Orthodox		9-3
4. Arena		7-5
5. Al Wehdat		6-6
6. Kofer Yoba		4-8
7. College SC		1-12
8. Al Jalil		0-12

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

KENYA

Action Begins at School Games - by Eurobasket News
Over 1,000 athletes converge in Kakamega for the start of the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Term One ball Games starting today in Kakamega.

Kakamega last hosted the games in 2004 and fireworks are expected following the presence of new entrants from various provinces. The event will feature basketball, hockey, rugby Sevens, cross country, heptathlon and decathlon. 'We expect this year's event to be more competitive and exciting because of the newcomers and talent centres that are likely to pull surprises,' said the KSSSA secretary general David Ngugi.

Among the new entrants are Ogende Secondary representing Nyanza Province, Upper Hill School (Nairobi) and Garissa High (North Eastern)- all representing their respective provinces in basketball.

Hockey will also feature newcomers in girls' category including Kapkolel Girls from Rift Valley, St. Barnabas Girls (Nyanza), Butere Girls (Western) and St. Joseph's (Kibwezi).

St. Joseph's Rapogi, Meru School and St. Joseph's Kibwezi from Eastern are the new entrants in boys hockey in the five-day show.

Maseno School, Kakamega High, Kerugoya, Garissa, Shimba Hills and Upper Hills are talent centres that will be featuring at this year's bonanza for the first time. The games will also feature Hindi School from Lamu, the first ever rugby Sevens team from the Coast Province to take part in the national games. St. Peter's Mumias and St. Joseph's Rift Valley will also be making debut appearance at the national scene.

Ngugi said they have introduced cards bearing players photographs to curb poaching after the Provincial Games.

The event is being sponsored by Brookside Dairy to the tune of Sh6.5 million. The company has also spent another Sh700, 000 for infrastructure development.'We are happy with the progress made so far by the hosts Western Province for the games and the support we have received from the sponsors,' Ngugi said. Kakamega High school will serve as accommodation village for boys while the girls will reside at Mukumu.
Courtesy of: Nairobi Star

Laiser Hill Draw the First Blood - by Eurobasket News
Nairobi National basketball champions Maseno School began their title defence poorly when they lost 73-50 to old foes Laiser Hill Academy in the opening match of this year's Brookside Kenya Secondary Schools Term One Games at Kakamega High on Tuesday.

In another Pool 'A' match, Kangaru School from Eastern Province edged out Alliance High School 47-45. It was a repeat of that nail-biting final at Upper Hill that saw Maseno pip Laiser Hill 54-52 to the title, only that this time Paul Otula's boys failed to produce that sparkling display.

Trailing by just eight points going into the final quarter, Maseno were reduced to spectators as the mercurial East Africa schools champions suddenly began scooping easy baskets from all angles.

Maseno completely lost composure and the game quickly slipped from their grasp. One minute they were contemplating a famous win, the next they were reduced to damage control.

'We didn't move the ball well enough at times to get the open looks that we wanted,' said Otula after the match.

Bubbling with confidence

'Our game plan was to pound the ball inside. But unfortunately, we took our eye off the basket. I told the guys at half-time that we needed to be ready to drop a few more shots out there but we never really did that.'

Laiser Hill, coached by Thomas 'Smarts' Olugo, were bubbling with confidence from the moment they got to the court, and were greeted by a lively crowd.

Laiser Hill supporters are among the noisiest in the country and it could have been more intimidating for Maseno if the match had been staged in Kajiado.

Their side responded with a blistering start and stormed to an early 15-11 lead in the first quarter. But Maseno refused to be bullied and slowly began regaining lost ground.

Led by the predatory Jeremy Opiyo - who contributed 14 points and six rebounds - and solid work from Tombush Wamukoya and George Okoth, Maseno somehow dragged themselves back into contention against all odds. Samuel Opel also brought his trademark athleticism and eye for the half chance to bear.

Crucial three-pointer

At the break, Laiser Hill were 33-23 up as Elijah Bior, with a match-winning 25 points, found his range with a brilliant pair of three-pointers at the start of the third quarter.

But the splendid Opiyo shot a crucial three-pointer for Maseno as the gap closed back to eight.

But this did not sweep the leading side out of their stride, as the regional champions swiftly moved back to their 10-point advantage, 51-41, as Reuben Mutoro sank a pair of free-throws before the end of the third quarter.

Bior, a standout player in the match, relaunched Laiser Hill's fourth quarter charge with a barrage of shots as the side's experience at this level began to show while Maseno coiled with some costly turnovers.
Courtesy of: Daily Nation
By Sammy Kitula

Nairobi to Pick Inter Cities Side This Weekend - by Eurobasket News
THE final men and women's teams to represent Nairobi in next week's East and Central Africa Inter Cities Championships will be named this weekend. Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA) chairman Ronnie Owino said the teams will have chance to train at the Nyayo Stadium on Monday before the tournament throws off at the same venue on April 19. 'The coaches will name their final squads over the weekend after their training session at the Railways Club on Saturday. The teams will then have their last session on Monday at Nyayo Stadium,' he observed. Despite few days remaining, Owino expressed optimism that Nairobi is still very much the team to beat in the tournament. 'I believe our teams will be tops again in the event.'

Thomas Olumbo and Emmanuel Ochieng are handling the men's side while Ben Oluoch and Sylvia Kamau Ocholla are in charge of the women's team during the five-day event. He said so far, teams that have confirmed participation in this 14th edition are Dar-es-Salaam, Mbeya, Mwanza, Tanga and Kampala, Hargesha and Mogadishu (Somalia) and Kenya Universities team. The defending champions are Nairobi (women) and Mombasa (men).
Courtesy of: Nairobi Star

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

LEBANON

Champville lands Lee Benson before the Final 4 kicks off!! - by Rabih Khoury
After signing Tyrone Anderson, Champville management agreed to terms with American center Lee Benson (208-F/C-73, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Brown Mackie). Benson played lately in China and Argentina. The 37 years old veteran has a big CV and will be a big plus to Champville. in 2008-2009, he averaged in China in 48 games: 34.1ppg, Reb-2 (18.8rpg), Assists-5 (5.6apg), 1.1spg, 2.0bpg, FGP: 52.9%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 71.6%. This year he averaged with Tianjin 16pts, 15rebds.
The final 4 will kick off starting on sunday with the first series between Riyadi and Sagesse... The series of Champville and Mouttahed will kick off on tuesday night.

Final Import List before the Final 4!! - by Rabih Khoury
Below you will find the final Import List for the 4 top teams before the final 4 kicks off... Also to note that today was the deadline to all teams to present the last import list.. No more Changes are allowed until the end of the League!!

Riyadi: Nathanel Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) and Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76)
Champville: Lee Benson (208-F/C-73, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Brown Mackie) and Tyrone Anderson (193-G-84, college: Concord)
Mouttahed: Austin Johnson (191-G-87, college: Oklahoma) and Micah Brand (210-C-80, college: Massachusetts)
Sagesse: Darryl Watkins (211-C-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Syracuse) and Garnett Thompson (207-F/C-80, college: Providence).

REEBOK IS ON THE HUNT TO FIND THE FUTURE STARS OF BASKETBALL - by Maarouf Mawloud
Do you love playing Basketball? Or love watching the games? What about the Lebanese Basketball Championship? Do you think you can be a Future Star?

We are on the hunt to find young Basketball players who can be the face of Reeboks first-ever Basketball championship in Beirut, Reebok Future Stars.

To help you reach your goal, we are offering you the chance be trained by your Basketball hero for the Reebok Future Stars championship. With a star line-up of Lebanese Basketball players: Rony Fahed, Elie Stephan, Bassem Balaa, Roy Samaha, Elie Rustom,Ghaleb Reda, Nadim Souaid,Miguel Martinez, Mazen Mneimneh, Rodrigue Akl , they will ALL be sharing their skills and will teach you how you can be the next up-and-coming Reebok Player of the Game!

If you think you have what it takes, register at your local club to take part in the tryouts and you could be selected to play in the Reebok Future Stars finals coached by your Basketball hero!

Reebok Future Stars Try-Outs will take place from 27th to 29th April at Michel El Murr Stadium to select the team for the finals on 1st May 2011. Reebok Future Stars championship will take place in Antranik Court, Centre Demerjian Stadium.

Future Stars categories are:
Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18

Dont miss the fun and action! It will be a day filled with joy, excitement and family fun at the tryouts and finals where you can watch BLAZE in action, win prizes and great giveaways. You can also win EXCLUSIVE autographed Reebok Zigtech merchandise signed by NBAs very own future star John Wall!

Contact your local club to register for the games or visit the Reebok store to find out more.

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LITHUANIA

Lithuanian LKL round 30 best performance: Raimundas Danys - by Eurobasket News
Swingman Raimundas Danys (198-G/F-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Naglis-Adakris Palangos, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 30.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 20 points and 12 rebounds, while his team edged out Alytus Alita (#13, 2-21) 91-89. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Naglis-Adakris maintains the 12th position in Lithuanian LKL. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 17 games and recorded just seven victories. It was one of impressive evenings for Danys as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Raimundas Danys averages this season 11.2ppg and 5.9rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was another Naglis-Adakris Palangos' star - 23-year old American Chris Lowe (183-G-87). Lowe had a very good evening with 26 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists. It was enough for Naglis-Adakris to edge slightly lower-ranked Alytus Alita (#13, 2-21) 91-89. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Naglis-Adakris keeps 12th position. 17 lost games are too many comparing to just seven victories Naglis-Adakris managed to get this year. Lowe is a newcomer at Naglis-Adakris, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was forward Vilmantas Dilys (208-F-87) of Perlas (#7). Dilys scored 20 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Perlas, leading his team to a 84-74 win against slightly lower-ranked Nevezis (#9, 9-15). The chances of Perlas ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 13 games, recording just eleven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Dilys could help Perlas to bring them higher in the standings. Dilys has a great season in Lithuania. After 11 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.5ppg (best scorer) and rebounds with 6.7rpg (8th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-C-89) of Juventus - 18 points and 12 rebounds
5. Jonas Valanciunas (210-C-92) of Lietuvos Rytas - 14 points and 11 rebounds
6. Gediminas Maceina (188-G-84) of Juventus - 17 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Rolandas Alijevas (192-G-85) of Nevezis - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists
8. Paulius Jankunas (205-F-84) of Zalgiris - 17 points and 7 rebounds
9. Povilas Butkevicius (201-F-87) of Rudupis - 15 points and 10 rebounds
10. Gediminas Orelikas (197-G/F-90) of Rudupis - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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MEXICO

CIBACOPA: Round 20 - by Eurobasket News
Round 20 in CIBACOPA means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Hermosillo where host Rayos de Hermosillo (16-4) beat league's leader Mineros de Cananea (16-4) 87-73 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mineros de Cananea. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game without a history. Rayos de Hermosillo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 25-of-32 free shots (78.1 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Rayos de Hermosillo made 12 blocks. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was center Marquise Gray (206-C-86, college: Michigan St.) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Terrence Thomas (198-80, college: Baylor) chipped in 13 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. Guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) produced 37 points (!!!) and 4 steals for the guests. Mineros de Cananea's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Rayos de Hermosillo keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Cananea. Mineros de Cananea will play next round against Tijuana Zonkeys trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Rayos de Hermosillo will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Bomberos de Mexicali on the road.
Important game to mention about took place in Tijuana. Seventh ranked Tijuana Zonkeys (10-10) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 8th ranked Ostioneros de Guaymas (8-12) 111-109 on Wednesday evening. American power forward Cyrus Tate (203-85, college: Iowa, agency: Edge Sports) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds (on 14-of-17 shooting from the field). Jermaine Watson contributed with 24 points and 13 assists for the winners. American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 26 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 blocks for Ostioneros de Guaymas. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Tijuana Zonkeys have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Mexicali. Ostioneros de Guaymas lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 12 games lost. Tijuana Zonkeys will play against league's second-placed Mineros de Cananea on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Ostioneros de Guaymas will play against Pioneros Los Mochis (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Frayles de Guasave (11-9) against tenth ranked Coras de Tepic (4-16) on Wednesday night. Visiting Frayles de Guasave was edged by Coras de Tepic in a tough game in Tepic 78-80. Worth to mention a great performance of Ira Brown who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 rebounds. William Funn responded with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Coras de Tepic moved-up to ninth place. Frayles de Guasave at the other side keeps the third position with nine games lost. They share it with Nogales and Culiacan. Coras de Tepic will meet higher ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Frayles de Guasave will play against Fuerza Guinda Nogales and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 20 Mexicali were defeated by Nogales in Nogales 100-93. Los Mochis lost to defending champion Culiacan at home 89-99.

Tepic - Guasave 80-78

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Frayles de Guasave (11-9) against tenth ranked Coras de Tepic (4-16) on Wednesday night. Visiting Frayles de Guasave was edged by Coras de Tepic in a tough game in Tepic 78-80. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 22-17 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Coras de Tepic made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Coras de Tepic made 9 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Ira Brown (193-82, college: Gonzaga, agency: Dream Team Management) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 rebounds and the other American import swingman Cleotis Brown (198-77, college: Illinois, agency: Dream Team Management) who added 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. American guard William Funn (188-82, college: Portland St.) responded with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and Cameroonian forward Serge Angounou (202-83, college: Arizona St.) scored 18 points and 9 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Coras de Tepic moved-up to ninth place. Frayles de Guasave at the other side keeps the third position with nine games lost. They share it with Nogales and Culiacan. Coras de Tepic will meet higher ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (#5) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Frayles de Guasave will play against Fuerza Guinda Nogales and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guasave: A.Izaguirre 21+3reb+2ast, S.Angounou 18+9reb, W.Funn 18+6reb+6ast, R.Barrett 17+2reb, M.Strobbe 4+9reb+3ast, O.Gonzalez 0
Tepic: I.Brown 28+14reb+1ast, C.Brown 17+6reb+5ast, J.Parker 16+3reb+2ast, J.Everardo 12+4reb+1ast, J.Pablo Bravo 7+3reb+3ast, A.Ayala 0

Nogales - Mexicali 100-93

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked Fuerza Guinda Nogales and 5th ranked Bomberos de Mexicali had identical 10-9 record. This time Fuerza Guinda Nogales used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Mexicali 100-93 on Wednesday night. Bomberos de Mexicali trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 23-17 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 93-100 at the end of the game. They outrebounded Bomberos de Mexicali 29-17 including 19 on the defensive glass. Fuerza Guinda Nogales shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 56.5 percentage. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Fuerza Guinda Nogales made 14 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of Bahamas power forward Ryan Moss (200-74, college: UALR) who helped to win the game recording 28 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized American guard Noah Brown (186-81, college: Appalachian St.) who added 28 points and 4 assists (perfect from downtown making all eight shots !!!) during the contest. American guard Michael Gale (193-82, college: Centenary) responded with 32 points and 4 assists and the former international power forward Hugo Carrillo (205-83) scored 16 points. Four Fuerza Guinda Nogales and five Bomberos de Mexicali players scored in double figures. Fuerza Guinda Nogales (11-9) moved-up to third place, which they share with Guasave and Culiacan. Loser Bomberos de Mexicali dropped to the sixth position with ten games lost. They share it with Tijuana. Fuerza Guinda Nogales will meet Frayles de Guasave (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Bomberos de Mexicali will play against the league's leader Rayos de Hermosillo and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Mexicali: M.Gale 32+1reb+4ast, J.Ruffus 18, H.Carrillo 16+4reb, J.Penny 12+8reb, R.Lopez 11+3reb+1ast, P.Giron 2
Nogales: R.Moss 28+8reb+1ast, N.Brown 28+4ast, J.Walker 20+2reb+1ast, A.Broxsie 12+16reb+1ast, V.Rojo 7, B.Heredia 5+5ast

Hermosillo - Cananea 87-73

Round 20 in CIBACOPA means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Hermosillo where host Rayos de Hermosillo (16-4) beat league's leader Mineros de Cananea (16-4) 87-73 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Mineros de Cananea. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game without a history. Rayos de Hermosillo led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 25-of-32 free shots (78.1 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Rayos de Hermosillo made 12 blocks. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was center Marquise Gray (206-86, college: Michigan St.) who had a double-double by scoring 20 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Terrence Thomas (198-80, college: Baylor) chipped in 13 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. Four Rayos de Hermosillo players scored in double figures. Guard Davin White (186-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge) produced 37 points (!!!) and 4 steals and forward Derek Thomas (193-84, college: Appalachian St.) added 9 points respectively for the guests. Mineros de Cananea's coach rotated ten players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Rayos de Hermosillo keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Cananea. Mineros de Cananea will play next round against Tijuana Zonkeys trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Rayos de Hermosillo will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Bomberos de Mexicali on the road.
Top scorers:
Cananea: D.White 37+2reb+2ast, J.Casillas 12+2reb, D.Thomas 9+3reb+3ast, D.Onofre 7+2reb, P.Darden 3+4reb, E.Swanson 2+2reb+2ast
Hermosillo: M.Gray 20+11reb+1ast, J.Lopez 17+6reb+2ast, J.Abu-Shamala 16+4reb+1ast, T.Thomas 13+6reb+9ast, S.Monreal 8+3reb+1ast, J.Manuel Esteva 6+3reb+1ast

Los Mochis - Culiacan 89-99

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Caballeros de Culiacan (11-9) defeated on the road bottom-ranked Pioneros Los Mochis (3-17) 99-89 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Caballeros de Culiacan. Pioneros Los Mochis managed to win third quarter 20-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Pioneros Los Mochis 42-29 including a 34-23 advantage in defensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Caballeros de Culiacan made 10 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists and naturalized American forward Quentin Gonzalez (200-84, college: McNeese St.) who added 20 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Five Caballeros de Culiacan players scored in double figures. Caballeros de Culiacan's coach Jonathan Meza used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. American guard Detrick White (184-76, college: Mississippi St.) responded with 30 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists and guard Carlos M. Toussaint (190-91, college: High School) scored 16 points. Defending champion moved-up to third place, which they share with Guasave and Nogales. Pioneros Los Mochis lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom position with 17 games lost. Caballeros de Culiacan will meet at home Coras de Tepic (#9) in the next round where they are favorite. Pioneros Los Mochis will play against Ostioneros de Guaymas and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Los Mochis: D.White 30+8reb+8ast, C.M. Toussaint 16+2reb+1ast, A.Verdugo 11+2reb+1ast, E.Hare 9+5reb+1ast, J.Estrada 8+4reb+1ast, A.Amezquita 7+2reb
Culiacan: R.Rougeau 27+14reb+6ast, Q.Gonzalez 20+8reb+3ast, J.Gonzalez 17+4reb+2ast, F.Harris 10+4reb+3ast, S.Morgan 10+5reb+1ast, J.Angel Reatiga 6+1reb

Tijuana - Guaymas 111-109

Important game to mention about took place in Tijuana. Seventh ranked Tijuana Zonkeys (10-10) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 8th ranked Ostioneros de Guaymas (8-12) 111-109 on Wednesday evening. Ostioneros de Guaymas were ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 23-19 third quarter run of Tijuana Zonkeys. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 23 assists. Tijuana Zonkeys brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. Ostioneros de Guaymas were plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. American power forward Cyrus Tate (203-85, college: Iowa, agency: Edge Sports) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 37 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds (on 14-of-17 shooting from the field). Canadian guard Jermaine Watson (193-81, college: Boston Coll., agency: KMG Sports Management) contributed with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 13 assists for the winners. Watson is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 26 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 blocks and guard Hector Nungaray (178-78) added 14 points in the effort for Ostioneros de Guaymas. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ostioneros de Guaymas' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Tijuana Zonkeys have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Mexicali. Ostioneros de Guaymas lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 12 games lost. Tijuana Zonkeys will play against league's second-placed Mineros de Cananea on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Ostioneros de Guaymas will play against Pioneros Los Mochis (#10) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Guaymas: J.Habel 26+16reb+4ast, J.Sanchez 16+2ast, R.Navarro 15+1reb+3ast, R.Benitez 14, H.Nungaray 14+3reb+2ast, C.Patton 9+2reb
Tijuana: C.Tate 37+10reb, J.Watson 24+4reb+13ast, T.Gabbidon 20+6reb+3ast, L.Ramirez 19+2reb+2ast, K.Rodriguez 6+2reb+2ast, G.Lira 3+2reb+1ast

Standings - CIBACOPA

CIBACOPA Standings

1. Hermosillo		16-4
2. Cananea		16-4
3. Guasave		11-9
4. Nogales		11-9
5. Culiacan		11-9
6. Mexicali		10-10
7. Tijuana		10-10
8. Guaymas		8-12
9. Tepic		4-16
10. Los Mochis		3-17

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Michael GALE
  Mexicali
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 29.1

1. Gale, Mexicali	29.1
2. White, Cananea	28.5
3. Sowell, Culiacan	27.3
4. Brown, Tepic	24.9
5. Sims, Los Mochis	24.3
6. White, Los Mochis	23.6
7. Gabbidon, Tijuana	23.4
8. Brown, Tepic	23.0
9. Barrett, Guasave	22.5
10. Moss, Nogales	22.5

Rebounds Per Game

Ryan MOSS
  Nogales
  (200-F/C-74)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Moss, Nogales	10.6
2. Angounou, Guasave	9.4
3. Brown, Tepic	9.2
4. Avila, Culiacan	9.1
5. Broxsie, Nogales	9.0
6. Malloy, Los Mochis	8.7
7. Shipley, Tijuana	8.6
8. Tate, Tijuana	7.8
9. Rougeau, Culiacan	7.6
10. Morgan, Culiacan	7.1

Assists Per Game

William FUNN
  Guasave
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Funn, Guasave	6.9
2. Watson, Tijuana	6.4
3. White, Los Mochis	5.9
4. Marentes, Guaymas	4.8
5. Monreal, Hermosillo	4.4
6. Meza, Culiacan	4.3
7. Thomas, Hermosillo	4.2
8. Nungaray, Guaymas	4.2
9. Ford, Tepic	4.1
10. White, Cananea	4.0

Steals Per Game

Derek THOMAS
  Cananea
  (193-F-84)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Thomas, Cananea	2.2
2. White, Cananea	2.0
3. Brown, Nogales	1.9
4. Matthews, Nogales	1.7
5. Rougeau, Culiacan	1.7
6. Funn, Guasave	1.6
7. Gale, Mexicali	1.6
8. White, Los Mochis	1.4
9. Sowell, Culiacan	1.4
10. Watson, Tijuana	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Kevin SOWELL
  Culiacan
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Sowell, Culiacan	3.2
2. Webb, Culiacan	2.6
3. Tate, Tijuana	2.5
4. Rougeau, Culiacan	2.4
5. Habel, Guaymas	2.4
6. Gale, Mexicali	2.4
7. Matthews, Nogales	2.2
8. Brown, Nogales	2.2
9. Shipley, Tijuana	2.2
10. Brown, Tepic	2.1

Best players of Mexican CIBACOPA round 20 - by Eurobasket News
American Cyrus Tate (203-F/C-85, agency: Edge Sports) had an amazing evening in the last round for Tijuana and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 20.
The 25-year old power forward had a double-double of 37 points and ten rebounds, while his team edged out Guaymas (#8, 8-12) 111-109. Tijuana maintains the 7th position in Mexican CIBACOPA. Tijuana is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 10-10 record. In the team's last game Tate had a remarkable 81.3% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Tijuana, being already a very valuable addition to the team. University of Iowa graduate has very impressive stats this year. Tate is in league's top in rebounds (8th best: 7.8rpg) and averages solid 2.5bpg and 54.3% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old American forward Jerome Habel (208-F-85) of Guaymas. Habel impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 26 points and 16 rebounds. Bad luck as Guaymas was edged by slightly higher-ranked Tijuana (#7, 10-10) 111-109. Guaymas is still second from the bottom in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 8-12 record. Habel is one of the most experienced players at Guaymas and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last round was American Ira Brown (193-F-82, agency: Dream Team Management) of Tepic (#9). Brown scored 28 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Tepic, leading his team to a 80-78 win against the higher-ranked Guasave (#3, 11-9). Tepic can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 4-16 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Brown he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Brown has individually a great season in Mexico. After 17 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 24.9ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 9.2rpg (3rd best). He also has 2.1bpg and FGP: 64.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Rene Rougeau (198-G-86) of Culiacan - 27 points, 14 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Jermaine Watson (193-G-81) of Tijuana - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 13 assists
6. Michael Gale (193-G-82) of Mexicali - 32 points and 4 assists
7. Detrick White (184-G-76) of Los Mochis - 30 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists
8. Noah Brown (186-G-81) of Nogales - 28 points and 4 assists
9. Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74) of Nogales - 28 points and 8 rebounds
10. Davin White (186-G-81) of Cananea - 37 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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MOROCCO

D1 Round 17: WAC Casabl. loses to CRA Hoceima - by Eurobasket News
The game between second ranked WAC Casabl. (11-6) and fifth ranked CRA Hoceima (10-7) was the most important one in the last round on Saturday night. WAC Casabl. was defeated by CRA Hoceima in a tough game in Al Hoceima 59-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of WAC Casabl.. CRA Hoceima moved-up to third place, which they share with RCA Casabl. WAC Casabl. at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. CRA Hoceima will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. WAC Casabl. will play at home against MAF Fez in Fes and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked RCA Casabl. (10-7) against eighth ranked MAF Fez (7-10) on Saturday night. Visiting RCA Casabl. was crushed by MAF Fez in Fes 97-77. MAF Fez maintains eighth place with 7-10 record. RCA Casabl. at the other side keeps the third position with seven games lost. They share it with CRA Hoceima. MAF Fez will play against league's second-placed WAC Casabl. in Casablanca in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. RCA Casabl. will play at home against the league's leader ASS Sale and will have a slim chance for a victory.
An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 4th ranked RSB Berkane in a game in Casablanca versus PCS Plazza C. (#7) 58-47. PCS Plazza C. have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with FUS Rabat. Loser RSB Berkane dropped to the fifth position with eight games lost. PCS Plazza C. will meet FUS Rabat (#6) on the road in the next round. RSB Berkane will play against IRT Tanger and hope to secure a win.
D1 top team - ASS Sale (16-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat sixth ranked FUS Rabat (8-9) 100-85. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of FUS Rabat. ASS Sale maintains first place with 16-1 record. FUS Rabat at the other side keeps the sixth position with nine games lost. ASS Sale's next round opponent will be RCA Casabl. (#4) in Casablanca. FUS Rabat will play on the road against ASE Essaou. in Essaouira.
The game between ninth ranked IRT Tanger (5-12) and 10th ranked ASE Essaou. (1-16) in Tanger on Saturday ended with biggest points difference. IRT Tanger outscored guests from Essaouira 75-49. IRT Tanger maintains ninth place with 5-12 record. ASE Essaou. lost tenth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. IRT Tanger will face higher ranked RSB Berkane (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. ASE Essaou. will play against FUS Rabat (#6).

PCS Plazza C. - RSB Berkane 58-47

An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 4th ranked RSB Berkane in a game in Casablanca versus PCS Plazza C. (#7) 58-47. PCS Plazza C. have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with FUS Rabat. Loser RSB Berkane dropped to the fifth position with eight games lost. PCS Plazza C. will meet FUS Rabat (#6) on the road in the next round. RSB Berkane will play against IRT Tanger and hope to secure a win.

CRA Hoceima - WAC Casabl. 64-59

The game between second ranked WAC Casabl. (11-6) and fifth ranked CRA Hoceima (10-7) was the most important one in the last round on Saturday night. WAC Casabl. was defeated by CRA Hoceima in a tough game in Al Hoceima 59-64. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of WAC Casabl.. CRA Hoceima moved-up to third place, which they share with RCA Casabl. WAC Casabl. at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. CRA Hoceima will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. WAC Casabl. will play at home against MAF Fez in Fes and is hoping to win this game.

ASS Sale - FUS Rabat 100-85

D1 top team - ASS Sale (16-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat sixth ranked FUS Rabat (8-9) 100-85. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of FUS Rabat. ASS Sale maintains first place with 16-1 record. FUS Rabat at the other side keeps the sixth position with nine games lost. ASS Sale's next round opponent will be RCA Casabl. (#4) in Casablanca. FUS Rabat will play on the road against ASE Essaou. in Essaouira.

IRT Tanger - ASE Essaou. 75-49

The game between ninth ranked IRT Tanger (5-12) and 10th ranked ASE Essaou. (1-16) in Tanger on Saturday ended with biggest points difference. IRT Tanger outscored guests from Essaouira 75-49. IRT Tanger maintains ninth place with 5-12 record. ASE Essaou. lost tenth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. IRT Tanger will face higher ranked RSB Berkane (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. ASE Essaou. will play against FUS Rabat (#6).

MAF Fez - RCA Casabl. 97-77

Very important is a road loss of third ranked RCA Casabl. (10-7) against eighth ranked MAF Fez (7-10) on Saturday night. Visiting RCA Casabl. was crushed by MAF Fez in Fes 97-77. MAF Fez maintains eighth place with 7-10 record. RCA Casabl. at the other side keeps the third position with seven games lost. They share it with CRA Hoceima. MAF Fez will play against league's second-placed WAC Casabl. in Casablanca in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. RCA Casabl. will play at home against the league's leader ASS Sale and will have a slim chance for a victory.

Standings - Men

D1 Standings

1. ASS Sale		16-1
2. WAC Casabl.		11-6
3. CRA Hoceima		10-7
4. RCA Casabl.		10-7
5. RSB Berkane		9-8
6. FUS Rabat		8-9
7. PCS Plazza C.		8-9
8. MAF Fez		7-10
9. IRT Tanger		5-12
10. ASE Essaou.		1-16

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

NBA

NBA suspends Pistons' Charlie Villanueva 5 games for incident against Cavaliers - by Eurobasket News
Detroit Pistons forward Charlie Villanueva (6'10''-F-84, college: Connecticut) was suspended for five games without pay by the NBA on Wednesday for initiating an on-court altercation with Cleveland's Ryan Hollins, trying to get at the Cavaliers' bench and twice attempting to enter their locker room.

With 5:47 left in the Pistons' 110-101 home loss to the Cavaliers on Monday night, Villanueva and Hollins got tangled in a screen and grabbed each other the neck area.

Villanueva attempted to get at Cleveland's bench and had to be restrained by teammates and security personnel. He left the floor, then twice attempted to enter the Cavs' locker room.

Villanueva served the first game of the suspension Wednesday night in Detroit's season finale in Philadelphia. The remaining four games will be served next season.

Cleveland coach Byron Scott was asked if he felt the suspension was appropriate.

'How much does he make?' Scott said Wednesday night before the Cavs played Washington in their season finale. 'It might be a pretty good little chunk. I didn't know it was going to be that many games. But the fact that you're running toward the locker room and going into the locker room of the opposing team, obviously they are gong to hit you pretty hard. I still don't understand what he was doing. Only Charlie knows.'

Courtesy of www.startribune.com

2011 Playoffs schedule - by Eurobasket News
EASTERN CONFERENCE

Chicago vs. Indiana
Game 1 - Sat April 16, Indiana at Chicago, 1:00 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Mon April 18, Indiana at Chicago, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Thu April 21, Chicago at Indiana, 7:00 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Sat April 23, Chicago at Indiana, 2:30 p.m. ET
Game 5 * Tue April 26, Indiana at Chicago, TBD
Game 6 * Thu April 28, Chicago at Indiana, TBD
Game 7 * Sat April 30, Indiana at Chicago, TBD

Miami vs. Philadelphia
Game 1 - Sat April 16, Philadelphia at Miami, 3:30 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Mon April 18, Philadelphia at Miami, 7:00 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Thu April 21, Miami at Philadelphia, 8:00 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Sun April 24, Miami at Philadelphia, 1:00 p.m. ET
Game 5 * Wed April 27, Philadelphia at Miami, TBD
Game 6 * Fri April 29, Miami at Philadelphia, TBD
Game 7 * Sun May 1, Philadelphia at Miami, TBD

Boston vs. New York
Game 1 - Sun April 17, New York at Boston, 7:00 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Tue April 19, New York at Boston, 7:00 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Fri April 22, Boston at New York, 7:00 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Sun April 24, Boston at New York, 3:30 p.m. ET
Game 5 * Tue April 26, New York at Boston, TBD
Game 6 * Fri April 29, Boston at New York, TBD
Game 7 * Sun May 1, New York at Boston, TBD

Orlando vs. Atlanta
Game 1 - Sat April 16, Atlanta at Orlando, 7:00 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Tue April 19, Atlanta at Orlando, 7:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Fri April 22, Orlando at Atlanta, 8:00 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Sun April 24, Orlando at Atlanta, 7:00 p.m. ET
Game 5 * Tue April 26, Atlanta at Orlando, TBD
Game 6 * Thu April 28, Orlando at Atlanta, TBD
Game 7 * Sat April 30, Atlanta at Orlando, TBD

WESTERN CONFERENCE

San Antonio vs. Memphis
Game 1 - Sun April 17, Memphis at San Antonio, 1:00 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Wed April 20, Memphis at San Antonio, 8:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Sat April 23, San Antonio at Memphis, 7:30 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Mon April 25, San Antonio at Memphis, TBD
Game 5 * Wed April 27, Memphis at San Antonio, TBD
Game 6 * Fri April 29, San Antonio at Memphis, TBD
Game 7 * Sun May 1, Memphis at San Antonio, TBD

L.A. Lakers vs. New Orleans
Game 1 - Sun April 17, New Orleans at L.A. Lakers, 3:30 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Wed April 20, New Orleans at L.A. Lakers, 10:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Fri April 22, L.A. Lakers at New Orleans, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Sun April 24, L.A. Lakers at New Orleans, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 5 * Tue April 26, New Orleans at L.A. Lakers, TBD
Game 6 * Thu April 28, L.A. Lakers at New Orleans, TBD
Game 7 * Sat April 30, New Orleans at L.A. Lakers, TBD

Dallas vs. Portland
Game 1 - Sat April 16, Portland at Dallas, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Tue April 19, Portland at Dallas, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Thu April 21, Dallas at Portland, 10:30 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Sat April 23, Dallas at Portland, 5:00 p.m. ET
Game 5 * Mon April 25, Portland at Dallas, TBD
Game 6 * Thu April 28, Dallas at Portland, TBD
Game 7 * Sat April 30, Portland at Dallas, TBD

Oklahoma City vs. Denver
Game 1 - Sun April 17, Denver at Oklahoma City, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 2 - Wed April 20, Denver at Oklahoma City, 8:00 p.m. ET
Game 3 - Sat April 23, Oklahoma City at Denver, 10:00 p.m. ET
Game 4 - Mon April 25, Oklahoma City at Denver, 10:30 p.m. ET
Game 5 * Wed April 27, Denver at Oklahoma City, TBD
Game 6 * Fri April 29, Oklahoma City at Denver, TBD
Game 7 * Sun May 1, Denver at Oklahoma City, TBD

NBA fines Kobe Bryant $100,000 over gay slur - by Eurobasket News
Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) may want to think before he speaks.

After referee Beanie Adams penalized him for a technical foul during Tuesday's game, the L.A. Lakers player was caught on camera calling the referee a 'f**king f*ggot' -- and the NBA is none too pleased.

Though Bryant, 32, issued an apology on Wednesday -- 'My actions were out of frustration during the heat of the game,' he explained -- the NBA decided to fine Bryant $100,000 for uttering the homophobic slur on live television.

'Kobe Bryant's comment during last night's game was offensive and inexcusable,' NBA commissioner David Stern explained. 'While I'm fully aware that basketball is an emotional game, such a distasteful term should never be tolerated.'

Bryant -- who made an estimated $48 million last year -- later told ESPN 710's Mason & Ireland radio show that he plans to appeal the fine, calling the move 'standard protocol.'

'The comment that I made, even though it wasn't meant in the way it was perceived to be, is nonetheless wrong, so it's important to own that,' Bryant said on Wednesday.

'It's important for me to talk about that issue because it's OK to be who you are,' the athlete continued, 'and I don't want this issue to be a part of something or to magnify something that shouldn't be.'

Courtesy of www.usmagazine.com

Bucks center Andrew Bogut has right elbow surgery - by Eurobasket News
Milwaukee Bucks General Manager John Hammond announced that center Andrew Bogut (7'0''-F/C-84, college: Utah) had successful arthroscopic surgery to remove loose particles and scar tissue in his right elbow. The surgery was performed by Dr. James Andrews at the Andrews Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center in Gulf Breeze, FL.

In 65 games this season (all starts) Bogut averaged 12.8 points, a career-high 11.1 rebounds and a league-leading and career-best 2.6 blocks per game. His 168 blocks this season are the seventh-highest single-season total in team history, just behind his sixth-place total of 175 set last year. In 396 career games (388 starts), Bogut has averaged 12.7 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.6 blocks. He is among the franchise leaders in points (5,043, 18th), rebounds (3,710, fifth) and blocks (618, third).

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Bynum has bone bruise, is likely for playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) has a bone bruise in his right knee, an MRI revealed Wednesday.

Bynum hyperextended his right knee in Tuesday's 102-93 win over the San Antonio Spurs.

Bynum's injury is not believed to be serious.

Lakers forward Matt Barnes also had an MRI exam on his sore right knee, which was surgically repaired Jan. 11, 2011. Results of Barnes' MRI on Wednesday showed no new damage.

Bynum is fourth on the Lakers in scoring, averaging 11.3 points per game, and is second on the team in rebounding, averaging 9.4 per game.

Barnes is averaging 6.7 points and 4.3 rebounds in 53 games in a reserve role.

Both Bynum and Barnes are expected to be ready to play when the Lakers open the playoffs this weekend.

Courtesy of www.foxsportswest.com

Lakers recall Derrick Caracter, officially sign Trey Johnson - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Lakers have recalled rookie forward Derrick Caracter (6'9''-F-88, college: UTEP) and signed guard Trey Johnson from Bakersfield of the NBA D-League.

The Lakers needed reinforcements for Wednesday's regular season finale at Sacramento. Guard Steve Blake is out with chicken pox, forward Matt Barnes is resting his sore right knee, and center Andrew Bynum is undergoing an MRI on his hyperextended right knee.

Caracter has appeared in 40 games with the Lakers this season, averaging 2.0 points and 1.1 rebounds. He also has spent two stints in Bakersfield.

Johnson spent the preseason with the Lakers before his fourth D-League season, ranking second in the league with 25.5 points per game. He also spent seven games with the Toronto Raptors.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

NBA Playoff Preview: (1) Chicago Bulls vs. (8) Indiana Pacers - by Daniel Gibson
Saturday 1pm: The United Center

The Indiana Pacers are aware that the Chicago Bulls enter the Playoffs as one of the hottest teams in the league featuring the front runner for the MVP award, coach of the year candidate, and one of the stingiest defenses around.

Oddly enough, according to the Pacers starting small forward, Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83) this is exactly the match up the team wants.

'Boston's a different monster,' said Granger. 'They don't have the best record in the East, but they won championships; they know how to do it. They have four, five guys you have to worry about...

Granger went on to defend his reasoning for wanting to face the Bulls.

'Chicago, they go as Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88) goes. If you make a concerted effort to stop Derrick Rose, you have a better chance of beating them.'

While that may sound good in theory, it is much more difficult to do in reality.

Derrick Rose has led the Bulls to a record of 62-20 while posting averages of 25 points per game, 4.2 rebounds, and 7.9 assists. He was able to carry the team through the entire season while fellow All-Star and former Olympian Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80) missed time with an injury. Starting center Joakim Noah (6'11''-F/C-85) also missed time with an injury and the Bulls didnt skip a beat.

Rose is clearly the favorite choice for the MVP award and playing at an extremely high level while carrying the team and buying into coach Tom Thibodeaus defense first philosophy.

The regular season record between the Bulls and Pacers was 3-1 in favor of Chicago this season. The Bulls won the first three games 92-73, 99-86, and 110-89. However, these games took place before the Pacers fired coach Jim O'Brien and replaced him with interim head coach Frank Vogel.

The last matchup was won by the Pacers, 115-108 in overtime. Vogel has led a resurgence in Indiana instilling confidence in his young team and they have been in playoff mode for over a month now as they made a push to get the eighth and final playoff seed in the Eastern Conference.

Confidence alone wont be enough to win but can go a long way. Indiana Pacers wanted the Chicago Bulls and on Saturday they get what they wished for in the first game of the 2011 NBA Playoffs.

Last games of the regular season - by Eurobasket News
Golde State W. - Portland TB 110-86
Reggie Williams (6'5''-G/F-86, agency: Interperformances, college: VMI) scored 28 points and Stephen Curry (6'3''-G-88, college: Davidson) had 18 points and nine assists in the Golden State Warriors' 110-86 victory over the playoff-bound Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night. Dorell Wright had 20 points to cap a breakout season for the veteran forward and David Lee added 13 points for the Warriors in what could be first-year coach Keith Smart's final game. Smart, who replaced Don Nelson before the season, led Golden State to a 36-46 record. That was a 10-game turnaround from 2010 but the team still missed the playoffs for the 16th time in 17 seasons and Smart's future is uncertain under new owners Joe Lacob and Peter Guber. Patty Mills had a career-high 23 points and Wesley Matthews added 18 points for Portland, which already had locked up the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference. The Trail Blazers will open the playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks. *Courtesy of www.kval.com

Orlando M. - Indiana P. 92-74
Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85) had 13 points and 13 rebounds in limited minutes as the Orlando Magic cruised past the visiting Indiana Pacers, 92-74, on Wednesday in the season finale for both teams. Howard played just over 26 minutes but still recorded the double-double while adding four steals and a block. Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, college: California) led the way with 14 points in a reserve role for the Magic (52-30), who as the fourth seed will face the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the playoffs. Brandon Rush and Mike Dunleavy had 16 points apiece for the Pacers (37-45), who have a first-round encounter with the red-hot Chicago Bulls. This one was over early as the Magic opened a 28-14 lead after one quarter and held the Pacers to just 29 points in the first half. None of the starters for either team played more than 26 minutes. *Courtesy of www.fox59.com

Philadelph.76 - Detroit P. 100-104
Rodney Stuckey (6'4''-G-86, college: E.Washington) scored 29 points, Tayshaun Prince (6'9''-F-80, college: Kentucky) had 14 and the Detroit Pistons beat the Philadelphia 76ers 104-100 on Wednesday night. Jrue Holiday led the Sixers with 21 points. Andres Nocioni and Evan Turner each scored 18. The Sixers are slumping at the wrong time as they get set to play Miami in the playoffs. They lost for the fifth time in the last six games. They finished 41-41 and failed to post their first winning record since 2004-05. The Sixers earned their 40th victory on April 1. The Sixers play the Heat in Game 1 on Saturday. The Pistons finished the season 30-52 and face an offseason of potential major changes, from the underachieving roster to the coaching staff. This one had the feel of an ugly preseason game. Some stars sat, deep reserves played and even fan appreciation night prizes couldn't attract much of a crowd. The Wells Fargo Center should be jammed when LeBron James and Dwyane Wade come to Philadelphia for Games 3 and 4. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

Oklah.City T. - Milwaukee B. 106-110 OT
Brandon Jennings (6'0''-G-89) scored 16 points and the Milwaukee Bucks sent Michael Redd into free agency with a victory by beating the Oklahoma City Thunder 110-106 in overtime Wednesday night. Jennings outscored the Thunder 8-2 in the final 2:21 of the game, hitting the go-ahead reverse layup with 56.8 seconds left and then hitting two free throws to put the game away. Russell Westbrook scored 20 points and Kevin Durant added 14 in a season-low 23 minutes as the Thunder gave their starters a lightened load with the playoffs looming. Oklahoma City will be the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference and open against the Denver Nuggets in the first round. Redd, in possibly his final game with Milwaukee, hit a 3-pointer to spark a 9-0 flurry in the final 86 seconds and send the game into overtime. Redd, a second-round pick, has spent all 11 years of his NBA career with the Bucks, becoming an All-Star in 2004 and an Olympic gold medalist with the U.S. team in 2008. He missed most of the past two seasons after serious injuries to his left knee and didn't play this season until late March. But he was on the court at the end to get perhaps his last win with Milwaukee. John Salmons finished with 15 points, Ersan Ilyasova scored 14 with nine rebounds and eight Bucks scored in double figures. Milwaukee finished the season 35-47. *Courtesy of www.sacbee.com

Utah Jazz - Denver N. 107-103
Rookie Gordon Hayward (6'9''-G/F-90, agency: Priority Sports, college: Butler) scored a career-high 34 points and hit five 3-pointers to give the host Utah Jazz a 107-103 victory over playoff-bound Denver in the season finale for both teams Wednesday night. The game meant little to the Nuggets, who already had locked up the Western Conference's No. 5 seed and rested many of their players. They probably wish they had sat starting guard Ty Lawson as well. He had to be helped off the court after spraining his left ankle, but he left the arena without crutches or a boot. Hayward, the former Brownsburg High School star who led Butler to the NCAA title game last season, hit 12-of-17 from the field, including 5-of-6 on 3s and scored the most points by a Jazz rookie since Jerry Eaves had 35 on March 16, 1983, at Detroit. 'I don't feel like a rookie anymore after 82 games,' said Hayward, who also made 5-of-5 free throws. 'It's really good going into the offseason to have these last games in my back pocket. I'll pull those out when I need motivation in the offseason.' *Courtesy of www.indystar.com

Chicago B. - New Jersey N. 97-92
The Chicago Bulls had just wrapped up their best regular season since Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen collected their final championship, and Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) was in no mood to celebrate. He'll save it for later. Kyle Korver (6'7''-F-81, college: Creighton) came up big down the stretch to finish with 19 points, Rose scored 15 and the Bulls won their ninth straight, beating the New Jersey Nets 97-92 in the final playoff tuneup on Wednesday. 'I'm happy, I'm definitely happy,' Rose said. 'I wouldn't like to be on a losing team, but what's the point of celebrating now when you can get knocked out in the playoffs?' The Bulls earned home-court advantage throughout the playoffs later Wednesday with San Antonio's 106-103 loss to Phoenix. Had the Bulls and Spurs tied for the best record, a random drawing would have decided the overall No. 1 seed because all the tiebreakers were even. The Bulls led by as much as 13 in the second quarter and were up seven at the half, but found themselves trailing 68-58 after the Nets scored 15 straight midway through the third. They responded by running off 10 in a row to close the period and pulled this one out in the end, with Korver scoring seven in the final four minutes. Rasual Butler scored 10, including the go-ahead 3-pointer in the final minute, and the Bulls got 50 points from their bench on a night when the starters spent much of the fourth quarter on the bench. *Courtesy of www.kansascity.com

Cleveland C. - Washington W. 100-93
Ramon Sessions (6'3''-G-86, college: Nevada) scored 27 points, J.J. Hickson (6'9''-F/C-88, college: N.Carolina St.) added 15 and the Cleveland Cavaliers closed out one of the worst seasons in franchise history - and first in eight years without LeBron James - by beating the Washington Wizards 100-93 on Wednesday night. The Cavs finished 19-63, an extreme drop after going a league-best 61-21 during the regular season in 2010 before James bolted as a free agent last summer. But that didn't matter in the closing seconds as Cleveland fans saluted the Cavs with a rousing ovation. Cleveland won four of its final six games and split its last 12. Andray Blatche scored 20 and Yi Jianlian had 12 rebounds for the Wizards. Washington's John Wall scored 10 points but played only 24 minutes in the final game of his strong rookie season. Earlier this week, Cavs coach Byron Scott said he wished his first season in Cleveland was one month longer. While many Clevelanders were thrilled it was almost over, Scott felt his young team was finally coming into its own and he may have been right. The Cavs played hard down the stretch and avoided finishing with the league's worst record, a distinction that belongs to the Minnesota Timberwolves. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Dallas M. - N.Orleans H. 121-89
Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) scored 32 points and the Dallas Mavericks concluded the regular season with their fourth straight victory by posting a 121-89 triumph over the visiting New Orleans Hornets on Wednesday. Jose Juan Barea (5'11''-G-84, college: Northeastern) added 14 points and eight assists, Jason Terry scored 13 points and Jason Kidd had 12 and eight assists for Dallas (57-25), which can claim the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference playoffs if the Los Angeles Lakers lose to the Sacramento Kings later Wednesday night. Jarrett Jack scored 22 points for New Orleans (46-36). The Hornets will either be the seventh or eighth seed in the West, depending on the result of the Memphis Grizzlies' game against the Los Angeles Clippers later Wednesday. Dallas trailed 61-58 at halftime before dominating the second half, shooting 63.6 percent from the field and holding New Orleans to just 28 second-half points. *Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

Minnesota T. - Houston R. 102-121
The Houston Rockets and Minnesota Timberwolves saw disappointing seasons come to a merciful end Wednesday night. Now they both head into an offseason of uncertainty, not sure when they'll be playing again or who will be coaching them when they return from what many fear will be an extended lockout. Chase Budinger (6'7''-F-88, college: Arizona) scored a career-high 35 points and Kevin Martin (6'7''-G/F-83, college: W.Carolina) added 25 to lead the Rockets to a 121-102 victory over the Timberwolves in the season finale for both teams. 'I just enjoy these guys so much,' Rockets coach Rick Adelman said. 'You look at tonight, we scored [121] points and we had 32 assists. Really unselfish again tonight. I just love the way they finished the season. It's just like the did it all year. We could've caved in a couple of times and we never did it all year long.' Michael Beasley scored 34 points and Anthony Randolph had 23 for the Timberwolves (17-65), who lost their last 15 games of the season to finish with the worst record in the NBA. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Boston C. - New York K. 112-102
Avery Bradley (6'2''-G-90, college: Texas) scored a career-high 20 points as Boston's 'B' team beat the Knicks' second string 112-102 on Wednesday night in a regular-season finale both teams used to rest their starters, instead of as a tuneup for their first-round playoff matchup. Glen Davis (6'9''-F-86, college: LSU) had 17 points and eight rebounds, and Sasha Pavlovic added a season-high 19 points as the Celtics snapped a two-game losing streak despite resting their starters for the second straight game. Amare Stoudemire played 20 minutes and scored 14 points for New York, which will return to Boston to open the Eastern Conference postseason on Sunday night. A crowd of 18,624 that came to see Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen instead got Von Wafer, Carlos Arroyo and Pavlovic. The Knicks sat Chauncey Billups and Carmelo Anthony, though Stoudemire played the entire first quarter and eight more minutes in the third. Boston's first-round draft pick who had scored a total of 32 points in 30 games this season, Bradley shattered his previous career high of five points. Wafer and Jeff Green had 14 points apiece, and Nenad Krstic had 13 for the defending Eastern Conference champs. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

LA Clippers - Memphis G. 110-103
Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) had 31 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in the 82nd and final game of his spectacular rookie season and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the playoff-bound Memphis Grizzlies 110-103 on Wednesday night. Griffin sat out all 82 games last season after hurting his knee in the final preseason game and having surgery. He was the only player to appear in every game this season when injuries plagued the team. Eric Gordon (6'4''-G-88, college: Indiana) added 24 points and DeAndre Jordan had 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Clippers, who led all the way in ending a three-game skid but finished 32-50 to miss the playoffs again. Sam Young led six players in double figures with 22 points and Greivis Vasquez added 17 as the Grizzlies rested starters Tony Allen, Mike Conley and Zach Randolph in anticipation of their first playoff berth since 2005-06. The loss cost them the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference. They fell to eighth and will open against top-seeded San Antonio. New Orleans, which lost to Dallas on the final night of the regular season, wound up seventh. *Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Phoenix Suns - San Antonio S. 106-103
The San Antonio Spurs lost a shot at home-court advantage throughout the playoffs and saw a grimacing Manu Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) leave the court in pain early in the game. Not exactly a beautiful ending to a powerful regular season. 'Now,' coach Gregg Popovich said, 'the fun starts.' Despite the 106-103 loss to Phoenix on Wednesday night, the Spurs are the No. 1 seed in the West and early indications were that Ginobili's hyperextended elbow wasn't serious. Popovich sat Ginobili, Tim Duncan and Tony Parker in a loss to the Lakers in Los Angeles on Tuesday night, but all three were in the starting lineup Wednesday. 'You can't predict anything and there's no reason to second guess and I don't think any one of us are going to do that,' Duncan said. 'Luckily, it's not serious and hopefully he can be ready to go once the playoff starts. You cross your fingers, you hope for that, and you move on.' The Spurs move on to a first-round playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies, a team that seemed to want to face San Antonio. 'They sat their guys for the last three or four games,' Duncan said. 'They're trying to stay where they're at. Obviously, they've chosen their matchup and want to stick with it.' Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84) had 21 points and 13 rebounds to help the Suns avoid being swept in the four-game regular season series. The Spurs, at 61-21, finished a game behind Chicago for the best record in the NBA. *Courtesy of www.ktvn.com

Sacramento K. - LA Lakers 108-116 OT
The Los Angeles Lakers clinched the number two seed in the NBA Western Conference Wednesday night but they had to work pretty hard to get it as they blew a double digit lead in the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at the Power Balance Pavilion and had to play an extra period to win the contest by a final tally of 116-108. The Lakers ended the regular season tied with the Dallas Mavericks but Los Angeles had the tie breaker and got the higher seed. They will face the New Orleans Hornets this weekend in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) had a game high 36 points while Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) starting instead of the injured Andrew Bynum had another 22 in the victory. If this was the final game to be played in the city of Sacramento than the Kings and the fans at Power Balance Pavilion did themselves proud as they went out fighting for the victory on the floor and the fans in the stands encouraged the team loudly with cheers, screams and cowbells. The combination almost got the Kings the upset victory as they outscored their opponents by 18 points in the fourth to force the overtime. However they did not have enough gas left in the tank to get the win. Marcus Thornton led the way for the Kings as he knocked down 33 points in the Kings last game of the campaign. An announcement from the Maloof Brothers of where the team will play next season is expected within days and it appears that Anaheim has the inside track. *Courtesy of www.slamdunkcentral.com

Toronto R. - Miami Heat 79-97
Eddie House (6'1''-G-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Arizona St.) led a decidedly unglamorous Miami Heat lineup with 35 points as the Big Three got some rest in a 97-79 road victory over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday. After clinching the No. 2 spot in the Eastern Conference on Monday, the Heat (58-24) decided to let LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh sit out the finale. Juwan Howard (6'9''-F-73, college: Michigan) added 18 points for the B team, while Mario Chalmers dished out 13 assists and Jamaal Magloire grabbed 19 rebounds. The Raptors (22-60) were down to eight players due to injury and were led by Jerryd Bayless with 21 points, while DeMar DeRozan chipped in 18. Toronto was within a point, 70-69, at the beginning of the fourth quarter, but Miami pulled away with a 15-2 run to begin the frame. House buried three 3-pointers and Howard scored six points during the spurt, and the Raptors mustered only 10 points in the quarter. *Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com

Charlotte B. - Atlanta H. 96-85
Plenty of rest. Zero momentum. The Atlanta Hawks can only hope that combination helps give them a chance in the playoffs. Gerald Henderson (6'4''-G/F-87, college: Duke) scored 20 points, D.J. Augustin (5'11''-G-87, college: Texas) added 17 points and seven assists and the Charlotte Bobcats sent the Hawks to the postseason on a six-game losing streak with a 96-85 victory Wednesday night. With no starter playing more than 25 minutes and only Kirk Hinrich (10 points) scoring in double figures, coach Larry Drew made sure the Hawks can't complain of tired legs ahead of their first-round opener Saturday at Orlando. But Atlanta last lost six straight games midway through the 2007-08 season. Not the place you'd like to be as the Hawks try to reverse last season's ugly four-game sweep to the Magic in the second round. 'I was hoping that it wouldn't end like this,' Drew said. 'The situation with the playoffs was one of my concerns. After we did lock up the fifth spot, I was hoping I could pull it out of our guys to continue to play hard and continue to really compete.' Instead it was the Bobcats playing harder even with nothing to play for. Closing a tumultuous season that saw a coaching change, a major trade and no repeat playoff appearance, Charlotte built a 20-point second-quarter lead and withstood Atlanta's reserve-fueled second-half run to finish with a two-game winning streak. The Bobcats put five players in double figures and shot 50 percent despite playing an eighth straight game without top scorer Stephen Jackson (hamstring). The Bobcats earned a season split with the Hawks despite dressing nine players for the seventh straight game. *Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 27.7

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	27.7
2. James, Miami Heat	26.7
3. Wade, Miami Heat	25.5
4. Stoudemire, New Y.	25.3
5. Bryant, LA Lakers	25.3
6. Anthony, Denver N.	25.2
7. Rose, Chicago B.	25.0
8. Ellis, Golde S.	24.1
9. Martin, Houston R.	23.5
10. Nowitzki, Dallas M.	23.0

Rebounds Per Game

Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.2

1. Love, Minnesota T.	15.2
2. Howard, Orlando M.	14.1
3. Randolph, Memph.	12.2
4. Griffin, LA Clipp.	12.1
5. Bogut, Milwauke.	11.1
6. Noah, Chicago B.	10.4
7. Humphries, New J.	10.4
8. Camby, Portland TB	10.3
9. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.2
10. Lee, Golde S.	9.8

Assists Per Game

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

1. Nash, Phoenix Suns	11.4
2. Rondo, Boston C.	11.2
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.	8.3
8. Westbrook, Oklah..	8.2
9. Kidd, Dallas M.	8.2
10. Rose, Chicago B.	7.7

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Paul, N.Orleans H.	2.3
2. Rondo, Boston C.	2.2
3. Ellis, Golde S.	2.1
4. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.9
5. Conley, Memphis G.	1.8
6. Allen, Memphis G.	1.8
7. Wall, Washington W.	1.8
8. Felton, New Y.	1.8
9. Kidd, Dallas M.	1.7
10. Gay, Memphis G.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.6
2. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.4
3. Howard, Orlando M.	2.4
4. McGee, Washingt.	2.4
5. Bynum, LA Lakers	2.0
6. Milicic, Minnesota T.	2.0
7. Duncan, San A.	1.9
8. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
9. Stoudemire, New Y.	1.9
10. Jordan, LA Clippers	1.8

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Boston C.		56-26
2. New York K.		42-40
3. Philadelph.76		41-41
4. New Jersey N.		24-58
5. Toronto R.		22-60
Central Div.
1. Chicago B.		62-20
2. Indiana P.		37-45
3. Milwaukee B.		35-47
4. Detroit P.		30-52
5. Cleveland C.		19-63
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		58-24
2. Orlando M.		52-30
3. Atlanta H.		44-38
4. Charlotte B.		34-48
5. Washington W.		23-59
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		55-27
2. Denver N.		50-32
3. Portland TB		48-34
4. Utah Jazz		39-43
5. Minnesota T.		17-65
Pacific Div.
1. LA Lakers		57-25
2. Phoenix Suns		40-42
3. Golde State W.		36-46
4. LA Clippers		32-50
5. Sacramento K.		24-58
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		61-21
2. Dallas M.		57-25
3. N.Orleans H.		46-36
4. Memphis G.		46-36
5. Houston R.		43-39

Rockets sign Marqus Blakely from Iowa Energy - by Eurobasket News
Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey announced that the team has signed forward Marqus Blakely (6'5''-F-89, college: Vermont) to a multi-year contract.

Blakely (6-5, 225, Vermont) earns a GATORADE Call-Up from the D-leagues Iowa Energy. This past season, Blakely averaged 15.0 points (.625, 287-459 FG), 6.3 rebounds, 1.47 steals and 1.2 assists in 49 games (19 starts) between the Bakersfield Jam and Iowa. He was traded by Bakersfield to Iowa for a 2011 first-round pick on Jan. 24, 2011, helping the Engery capture the D-Leagues Eastern Conference title with a 37-13 (.740) regular season record. Blakely, along with teammate Curtis Stinson, were also named NBA Development League Co-Performers of the Week for games played March 14-20.

As a collegian, Blakely finished his career at Vermont ranked fifth all-time in scoring (1,875), second in rebounding (1,044) and field goal percentage (.571), third in blocks (254) and field goals made (673), fourth in free throws made (525), and 10th in assists (304). He stands as a two-time America East Player of the Year winner and a three-time America East Defensive Player of the Year. Blakely also earned First-Team All-America East and America East All-Defensive First Team accolades three times during his career at Vermont. Winner of the 2010 State Farm College Slam Dunk Championship, Blakely averaged 17.3 points (.542 FG%), 9.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 2.4 steals and 1.9 blocks in 35 games as a senior. He was named to the America East Conference All-Tournament Team and helped Vermont to school-record 25 wins in 2009-10. Blakely was actually the only player in NCAA mens basketball to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, blocks and steals during the 2009-10 campaign.

Blakely will wear jersey #15 with the Rockets.

Courtesy of http://houston.cbslocal.com

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

NCAA1

Todd Mayo signs with Marquette - by Eurobasket News
Marquette coach Buzz Williams says guard Todd Mayo has signed a letter of intent with the Golden Eagles for his 2011 class.

Williams says Wednesday that Mayo is the 'perfect complement' to his returning squad.

Mayo is a 6-3, 190-pound guard from Huntington, W.V., who led Notre Dame Prep to the national prep championship game last season. He will have four years of eligibility with Marquette.

Mayo averaged 22 points and six assists this past season after previously playing at Houston High (2008-09) and Germantown High (2009-10) in the Memphis area.

Mayo is the brother of Grizzlies guard O.J. Mayo and joins forward Juan Anderson and point guard Derrick Wilson in Marquette's 2011 recruiting class.

Courtesy of www.hanfordsentinel.com

UCLA guard Malcolm Lee leaving early for NBA draft - by Eurobasket News
UCLA guard Malcolm Lee (6'4''-G-90) is leaving school to enter the NBA draft and he plans to hire an agent, ensuring he won't be eligible to return for his senior season.

Lee said Tuesday that he is immediately withdrawing from school.

He averaged 13.1 points, second-best on the team, along with 3.1 rebounds this season. He was voted first-team All-Pac-10 and to the league's All-Defensive team.

Lee shot 44 percent from the field, 29 percent from 3-point range and 78 percent from the line.

He joins sophomore forward Tyler Honeycutt in declaring for the draft, continuing a trend at UCLA in which 10 players have been drafted in the last seven years of coach Ben Howland's tenure.

'It's a really tough time for these kids to be coming out this year in terms of the lockout looming and how it affects the draft,' Howland said.

He said Lee has been projected as a second-round pick. Lee had knee surgery three weeks ago and with the possibility of a lockout and his projected second-round status, Howland said he told Lee and his family that he should return to school.

'I thought that would have been in his best interests,' Howland said. 'Malcolm knows he's a good player and he really wants to take this step now and I have to respect that.

'I think he's going to make it eventually. I'm just hoping this works out for him.'

Howland said Lee plans to move to Las Vegas and begin his pre-draft workouts as he rehabs his knee.

Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

Williams leaving Arizona for NBA - by Eurobasket News
Derrick Williams (6'8''-F) helped Arizona finish off its rebuilding project with a spectacular sophomore season, boosting his draft status in the process.

Now it's time to see what he can do in the NBA.

Considered a potential lottery pick, Williams declared for the NBA draft on Wednesday and will sign with an agent, ending two impressive seasons that helped turned Arizona's program around.

'After careful consideration and with the support of my family and coach (Sean) Miller, I have decided to declare for the 2011 NBA Draft,' Williams said. 'I have enjoyed my two years at Arizona both on and off the court. I want to thank my teammates, who are like brothers to me, my coaches and all Wildcat fans for making my experience an unforgettable one.'

Williams was well down the recruiting radar coming out of high school in Southern California, not even the highest-rated prospect in Miller's initial recruiting class.

The 6-foot-8 forward turned out to be a steal for the Wildcats, a multidimensional player who could shoot inside, finish at the rim with both hands and had a knack for making big plays late in games.

He leaves Tucson with a place among some of best to ever play at tradition-rich Arizona and with the program headed in the right direction after three chaotic seasons.

'Today is a great day for Derrick Williams and for Arizona basketball,' Miller said. 'Derrick is a special player and rightfully should be considered to be one of the all-time great Wildcats. As good of a player as he is, he is an even better person.'

Williams was the Pac-10's freshman of the year in the 2009-10 season, which ended with the Wildcats missing the NCAA tournament for the first time in 25 years.

He worked to get Arizona back to the bracket with a skill-building offseason and was nearly unstoppable once the ball went up for real, averaging 19.5 points and 8.3 rebounds while shooting 59 percent to lead the Wildcats into the West Regional final in the NCAA tournament.

Williams had some of his biggest moments late in the season, swatting away a last-second shot to preserve a win against Washington, making another game-saving block in the NCAA tournament opener against Memphis, then scoring on a late three-point play to lift Arizona over Texas the next round.

He racked up the awards along the way: Pac-10 player of the year, Wooden Award finalist, second-team All-American.

Williams said he will finish the spring semester at Arizona and plans to finish his degree in the future.

'We are all excited to follow his journey to the NBA, and I have no doubt he will be very successful as an NBA player,' Miller said. 'We wish him all the best and know that he will be a part of our basketball family forever.'

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Florida State junior Chris Singleton leaving early to enter NBA draft - by Eurobasket News
Florida State junior Chris Singleton (6'9''-F-89), who led the Seminoles to three consecutive NCAA tournaments, said Wednesday he'll forego his final year of collegiate eligibility to enter the NBA draft.

Singleton said he has not yet signed with an agent, but is unlikely to change his mind about leaving school early.

''Unless I hear something out of the ordinary that comes from the (NBA) offices, I'm going to go for it,'' said Singleton, who is finishing the semester and Florida State and will be about 18 hours shy of graduation.

He becomes the fourth Seminole in as many years projected as a high NBA draft choice. Al Thornton, now with Golden State, was a first-round pick in 2007, Toney Douglas went late in the first round to the New York Knicks in 2009 and Solomon Alabi was a second-round pick last year.

Singleton leaves early with the blessing of his coach.

''He's ready,'' Florida State coach Leonard Hamilton said Wednesday. ''Chris brings an intangible to the NBA. He's a lockdown defender and can play three, four positions.''

The 6-9 Singleton was one of the nation's top defenders and led the Seminoles in scoring and rebounding this season. He missed several games late in the season with a broken right foot, but came back to play in the NCAA tournament.

Singleton was chosen the Atlantic Coast Conference defensive player of the year in the 2009-2010 season as a sophomore and just missed repeating this past season after an injury knocked him out of the final five games of the regular season.

Singleton scored 975 points during his Florida State career. He ranks eighth in career steals with 180 and fourth with 136 blocked shots, the only player in school history in the top 10 of both categories.

He achieved an unusual triple-double in a 97-73 win over UNC Greensboro last November with 22 points, 11 rebounds and 10 steals. It was the first time in ACC history that steals were part of a triple-double. It was just the second triple-double in Florida State history. Bob Sura had the other 15 years earlier.

Florida State had gone 11 seasons without making it to the NCAA tournament before a Douglas-led team made it Singleton's freshman year.

''One of my goals was to make it to the tournament and end the drought,'' Singleton said Wednesday. ''I wish we could've gone further.''

Singleton and senior guard Derwin Kitchen are the only regulars leaving Florida State, which finished 23-11 and advanced into the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament before being eliminated by Virginia Commonwealth.

Courtesy of www3.thescore.com

Miami AD: 'No one' has been offered basketball job - by Eurobasket News
Miami is searching for a men's basketball coach, raising money for some major construction initiatives and has already taken the first steps toward trying to revitalize its football program.

Given all that, Shawn Eichorst knows he will not be able to settle slowly into his new job.

Miami's new athletic director said Wednesday that he's ready for simultaneous challenges, starting with priority No. 1 -- finding someone to coach a team that went 21-15 this past season and then lost Frank Haith to Missouri in a move that caught the school by surprise.

'Everybody who has an interest in being our basketball coach here at the University of Miami will get consideration,' Eichorst said.

Eichorst offered no timetable to complete the hiring process and did not discuss any specific candidates, though insisted on two points: No one has been excluded from the search and no one has been offered the job, despite widespread speculation to the contrary on both counts.

'Any account or report otherwise is inaccurate and pure speculation,' Eichorst said. 'From this point forward, I will take complete charge of the search and will exhaust all means to find a coach who stands for the great values of this institution, is a fundamentally sound teacher of the game and will positively lead our players with a tremendous amount of passion, integrity and dedication.'

Miami players, who have already met with Eichorst, have been told to expect a hire within 10-14 days.

Eichorst spoke on a conference call one day after being named Kirby Hocutt's replacement as the person in charge of the Hurricanes' athletic department. The 44-year-old former Division III football player most recently was Wisconsin's deputy athletic director, and also worked at South Carolina and his alma mater, Wisconsin-Whitewater.

At Wisconsin, he was the Chief Operating Officer for athletics, overseeing a $90 million budget and being closely involved with a $100 million construction project for ice hockey, swimming and football.

'He's a person who is just a class act and one that has the integrity of the entire athletic department,' said Bob Berezowitz, who was Eichorst's coach at Wisconsin-Whitewater -- then had the former player become his boss when he returned there as athletic director after graduating from Marquette Law. 'I think he will do everyone down there justice in what they're looking for in an athletic director.'

Eichorst was highly recommended for the Miami job by his now-former boss with the Badgers, athletic director Barry Alvarez, who has remained close with Miami President Donna Shalala from her time at Wisconsin. Shalala was Chancellor there from 1987 through 1993.

Said Shalala, in a statement released by the university: 'Shawn Eichorst has the skills, experience, and philosophy to elevate UM athletics and exceed our highest expectations.'

Eichorst interviewed in person on Sunday, sitting down with new football coach Al Golden, women's basketball coach Katie Meier and others, collecting information from them as they tried to glean the same from him.

'I'm pretty prepared in everything I do,' Eichorst said. 'I had done a lot of due diligence in a lot of people that I met with, and we quickly developed a chemistry and the pace of the situation moved quickly. I think our values and our core beliefs and our philosophies started to mesh. I'm just so darned excited to get there.'

His hiring is part of a whirlwind time for the Hurricanes. Golden was hired in December by Hocutt, who several weeks later denied being a candidate at Texas Tech, then ultimately was hired by the Red Raiders. Miami alum and longtime athletics executive Tony Hernandez -- who was a candidate for the permanent AD job -- took over as the interim, and was overseeing the search to replace Haith.

Plus, the university has long been working on getting a $13.6 million project for a new sports center, which will house an academic center for members of Hurricane sports teams, a larger sports medicine facility, a new football locker room and a gallery of champions.

Now Eichorst takes over all that, and more. He said he plans to be in South Florida this weekend for meetings with key personnel, the expectation being that those talks will mostly revolve around the basketball coach situation.

Eichorst is married with three sons, and except for about two years with South Carolina, has spent the overwhelming majority of his life living in Wisconsin. He said he's ready for the challenge of a new climate in South Florida.

'I think you've got cheese and milk down there, too,' Eichorst said. 'I'm looking forward to the opportunity.'

Courtesy of www.foxsportsflorida.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin MICKENS
  Auckland P.
  (207-F/C-83)
  Avg: 26

1. Mickens, Auckland.	26.0
2. Bartlett, Auckland.	22.0
3. Allred, OceanaGo.	20.0
4. O''Gallagher, Ocean.	19.0
5. Bradshaw, OceanaGo.	16.0
6. Smith, Auckland P.	12.0
7. Brown, Auckland P.	10.0
8. To''omata, OceanaGo.	8.0
9. Beck, Auckland P.	6.0
10. Morrison, Oceana.	6.0

Rebounds Per Game

Lance ALLRED
  OceanaGold N.
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 16

1. Allred, OceanaGo.	16.0
2. Bradshaw, OceanaGo.	15.0
3. Bartlett, Auckland.	12.0
4. Martin, Auckland.	9.0
5. Mickens, Auckland.	8.0
6. Brown, Auckland P.	8.0
7. Smith, Auckland P.	5.0
8. Morrison, OceanaGo.	4.0
9. Anderson, Auckland.	3.0
10. O''Gallagher, Oce.	3.0

Assists Per Game

Luke MARTIN
  Auckland P.
  (182-PG-81)
  Avg: 6

1. Martin, Auckland.	6.0
2. Morrison, OceanaGo.	4.0
3. O''Gallagher, Ocean.	4.0
4. Bartlett, Auckland.	4.0
5. To''omata, OceanaGo.	3.0
6. Bradshaw, OceanaGo.	3.0
7. Brown, Auckland P.	2.0
8. Mickens, Auckland.	2.0
9. Allred, OceanaGo.	1.0
10. Smith, Auckland P.	1.0

Steals Per Game

Everard BARTLETT
  Auckland P.
  (198-G-86)
  Avg: 2

1. Bartlett, Auckland.	2.0
2. Morrison, OceanaGo.	1.0
3. O''Gallagher, Ocean.	1.0
4. Mickens, Auckland.	1.0
5. To''omata, OceanaGo.	1.0
6. Martin, Auckland.	1.0
7. Beck, Auckland P.	1.0
8. Ross, OceanaGold N.	0.0
9. Anderson, Auckland.	0.0
10. Barrow, Auckland.	0.0

Blocks Per Game

Raheim BROWN
  Auckland P.
  (209-F/C-79)
  Avg: 2

1. Brown, Auckland P.	2.0
2. Mickens, Auckland.	2.0
3. Bradshaw, OceanaGo.	1.0
4. Beck, Auckland P.	1.0
5. Buckrell, OceanaGo.	1.0
6. To''omata, OceanaGo.	0.0
7. King, OceanaGold N.	0.0
8. Rowe, OceanaGo.	0.0
9. Martin, Auckland.	0.0
10. Barrow, Auckland.	0.0

Standings Men

NBL Standings

1. Auckland P.		1-0
2. Bay Hawks		0-0
3. Manawatu J.		0-0
4. Nelson G.		0-0
5. Southland S.		0-0
6. Taranaki MA		0-0
7. Waikato P.		0-0
8. Wellington S.		0-0
9. OceanaGold N.		0-1

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

PALESTINE

Standings - Men

PBBA Standings

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

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

PBL

Rochester getting ready now - by Eurobasket News
Rochester's fourth consecutive appearance in the Premier Basketball League finals begins at the War Memorial on Friday. But RazorShark coach Rod Baker has his guys actively preparing for the series already.

After Friday's game, the team plays Sunday and Monday (if necessary) in Oklahoma, against the defending PBL champion Lawton-Fort Sill Cavalry. That amounts to the possibility of three games in four nights. So on Tuesday, the coach instructed his guys to start taking better care of themselves.

'The body is very adaptive,' says Baker. 'It'll do what you ask it to do if you give it a chance. You can't ask your body to deal with being in a stressful situation without preparing it.'

That means, among other things, smaller but more frequent meals, no soda and lots of water.

'You can't start hydrating your body mid game on Friday, much less when we get down there. We have to start doing all the extra stuff now, so that when we get there, it's no big deal.'

Rochester prides itself on superior conditioning. Baker disperses his minutes through his ten man roster. He doesn't see that as an advantage this week though because he says, the Cavalry do the same thing.

'Both these teams have a tremendous amount of respect for each other. We do what we do, they do what they do. You have to hope that you find eight quarters where what you do is better than what they do. Then you have a chance.'

Coach is on his own health kick. Baker recently eliminated sugar and white flour from his diet.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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

POLAND

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Ted SCOTT
  SKK Kotwica
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 25.4

1. Scott, SKK Kotwica	25.4
2. Hodge, Zastal	17.0
3. Frazier, AZS K.	16.7
4. Reynolds, AZS K.	16.5
5. Hinson, Polonia Azbud	16.3
6. Reese, AZS Koszalin	16.0
7. Dylewicz, Trefl Sopot	14.8
8. Bennerman, Energa C.	14.5
9. NaNa, Polonia Azbud	14.4
10. Goffney, Siarka	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Harris, SKK K.	11.4
2. Truscott, Siarka	9.9
3. Burgess, Zastal	9.4
4. NaNa, Polonia Azbud	8.3
5. Easley, Polonia Azbud	7.0
6. Ceranic, Trefl S.	6.7
7. Wysocki, PGE Turow	6.7
8. Miller, Anwil	6.6
9. Reynolds, AZS K.	6.4
10. Dylewicz, Trefl Sopot	6.3

Assists Per Game

Igor MILICIC
  AZS Koszalin
  (194-G-76)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Milicic, AZS K.	6.6
2. Blassingame, Energa C.	6.3
3. Thomas, PGE Turow	5.9
4. Hodge, Zastal	5.1
5. Skibniewski, Polph.	4.8
6. Szubarga, Asseco P.	4.2
7. Hawkins, PBG B.	4.0
8. Vaughn, Polpharma	3.5
9. Laczynski, Poloni.	3.1
10. Nowakowski, Poloni.	3.0

Steals Per Game

James MAYE
  Zastal
  (201-G/F-81)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Maye, Zastal	2.8
2. Hinson, Polonia Azbud	2.7
3. Blassingame, Energa C.	2.6
4. Hodge, Zastal	2.5
5. Pringle, Siarka	2.4
6. Skibniewski, Polph.	2.4
7. Milicic, AZS K.	2.3
8. Szubarga, Asseco P.	2.3
9. Hawkins, PBG B.	2.1
10. Vaughn, Polpharma	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 2

1. Harris, SKK K.	2.0
2. Lapeta, Asseco P.	1.4
3. Reynolds, AZS K.	1.4
4. Hicks, Anwil	1.3
5. Easley, Polonia Azbud	1.3
6. Burgess, Zastal	1.3
7. Davis, Energa C.	1.0
8. Kesicki, Zastal	0.8
9. Miller, Anwil	0.8
10. Mirkovic, Polpharma	0.8

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

PORTUGAL

LPB Playoff preview - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Starting tomorrow, LPB Playoffs mean every team present need to give the much of their strengths trying to qualify to a higher round. Of course, since the season begun, we were expecting to see Porto and Sport Lisboa Benfica in the Finals, but theyre not there yet and there are some barriers to surpass in the road.

Well try to look at each game from the Quarter-finals.

FC Porto Ferpinta (1st) vs CAB Madeira (8th)

Being the regular phase champion with a 21-1 record, could make Porto think the Playoffs first round would be easy, but theyll meet CAB Madeira, Portuguese Cup winner, and even if surprises are not expected, theyll have to be at their best to beat the Madeira team.
Porto has a very solid four with Carlos Andrade, Nuno Marcal, Greg Stempin and Julian Terrell, and their point guard is really where fragility can be found. Jose Costa, Sean Ogirri and Diogo Correia are their three options, none of them could win the spot in a regular basis. CAB Madeira have a great guard in Nathan Menefee, along with experimented players like Jaime Silva, Jorge Coelho, Shawn Jackson and Fred Gentry. They miss Mrio Fernandes, injured, and their bench options arent enough to beat Porto. My preview: Porto wins by 3-1.

Sport Lisboa Benfica (2nd) vs Ovarense Dolce Vita (7th)

Sport Lisboa Benfica are the LPB Champions and their record (17-5) was surely troubled by their games in Eurochallenge (where they reach Last 16). In Playoffs, theyll be a very hard team to beat, with a lot of talented players with a great winning experience. Sergio Ramos, Heshimu Evans and Greg Jenkins are their big three, having Miguel Minhava, Ben Reed, Antonio Tavares as a good support guys in the exterior game. Facing Ovarense, the big delusion of this season, will be too easy to Sport Lisboa Benfica. The vareiros game is fully based in Nuno Cortez, the only one to make a good season in their roster. Matt Webster and Nuno Manarte will try to help him, but that wont be enough to win any game. My preview: Sport Lisboa Benfica wins by 3-0.

Ass. Academica de Coimbra (3rd) vs Casino Figueira Ginasio (6th)

The Students have one of the best fives in the league, with a good support in the bench. They had a fantastic season, finishing very near from the two big teams. Fernando Sousa is committed to get a place in the National Team, being one of the best small forward in LPB, while Tommie Eddie and Matt Shaw are an impressive duo in the paint. Casino Figueira Ginasio had a very good start, but after Richard Oruches injury, they came a long brick road to finish in sixth. They found in Joo Reveles a point guard to the second half of the season, hoping Jason Hartford, Pedro Silva and Marco Goncalves can have good days in the boards. They also have Tomas Barroso, a very good young shooter, who can be a figure in the future. My preview: Ass. Academica de Coimbra wins by 3-1.

Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves Guimaraes (4th) vs CBP/Sentir Penafiel (5th)

I am totally unsure about what can happen in this match. Vitoria de Guimares had a great team during regular phase, but they lost Kevin Martin and Kyle Austin, and theyll face Playoffs with a small roster with a big lack of size, having only Claudio Fonseca and Paulo Diamantino to play as power forward and center. Theyll have to ask Paulo Cunha to be in a more physical position, turning into a lost in small forward place. Fernando Sas team will need to be fantastic in the outside shooting, if they want to compete with a very strong CBP/Sentir Penafiel. Manolo Poveas team was the regular phase big surprise. With a roster made of players nobody else wanted, they finished the league with a very good US players trio in Jeremy Good, Londrick Nolen and Andrais Thornton. They all are good working players and their coach is a defensive master in LPB. They also have the Portuguese international Rui Mota and the youngster Antonio Monteiro, who are a big help in the team success. They were finalists in the Portuguese Cup and they have everything to make a good run in this year playoffs. My preview: Penafiel wins by 3-1.

Source: http://porbasket.blogspot.com/2011/04/lpb-playoffs-preview.html

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

PUERTO RICO

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

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

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Johwen VILLEGAS
  Coamo
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 26

1. Villegas, Coamo	26.0
2. Vassallo, Guaynabo	24.2
3. Brown, Quebradillas	21.7
4. Ramos, Quebradillas	20.8
5. Clinch, Isabela	20.3
6. Romero, Mayaguez	19.4
7. Dalmau, Bayamon	19.4
8. Sanchez, Santurce	18.0
9. Shannon, Bayamon	16.4
10. Pellot-Rosa, San G.	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Shavlik RANDOLPH
  Isabela
  (208-F-83)
  Avg: 13

1. Randolph, Isabela	13.0
2. Narvaez, Coamo	12.8
3. Ramos, Quebradillas	12.2
4. Lloreda, San G.	11.3
5. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.2
6. Shannon, Bayamon	10.8
7. Ofoegbu, Humacao	9.0
8. Romero, Mayaguez	8.7
9. Vassallo, Guaynabo	8.2
10. Robinson, Humacao	8.2

Assists Per Game

Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.2

1. Dalmau, Bayamon	6.2
2. Guzman, Guaynabo	5.8
3. Clinch, Isabela	5.3
4. Cruz, Arecibo	4.8
5. Copeland, San G.	4.7
6. Brown, Quebradillas	4.7
7. Garcia, Humacao	4.6
8. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.4
9. Santiago, Santurce	4.0
10. Vega, Coamo	3.8

Steals Per Game

Eddin ''Guayito'' SANTIAGO
  Santurce
  (185-G-79)
  Avg: 3

1. Santiago, Santurce	3.0
2. Benison, Santurce	2.0
3. Pinnock, Arecibo	1.7
4. Romero, Mayaguez	1.6
5. Dalmau, Bayamon	1.6
6. Cruz, Arecibo	1.5
7. Carmona, Mayaguez	1.5
8. Chaney, Santurce	1.5
9. Clinch, Isabela	1.5
10. Dalmau, Guaynabo	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Herve LAMIZANA
  Mayaguez
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Lamizana, Mayaguez	2.8
2. Romero, Mayaguez	2.7
3. Penn, Humacao	2.6
4. Freije, Coamo	1.6
5. Santiago, Arecibo	1.6
6. Sanchez, Santurce	1.6
7. Shannon, Bayamon	1.4
8. Traylor, Bayamon	1.4
9. Ramos, Quebradillas	1.3
10. Rice, San German	1.2

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

QATAR

Rayyan open Emir Cup with embarrassing loss to Gharrafah - by Eurobasket News
Heir Apparent Cup winners Gharrafah confidently opened the third tournament of QBF season. They stormed past QBF League defending champions Rayyan 86:68 in QBF Emir Cup opener. Ousseynou N'Diaye (195-G/F-85, agency: Court Side) came up with 28 points to pace Gharrafah. Boney Watson (183-G, college: Sam Houston St.) added 20 points, 10 boards and 7 assists, while Alexander McLean (203-F-85, agency: Strategic Sports) contributed 18 points and 9 boards in the victory. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, college: Iowa) answered with 20 points for Rayyan. Yasseen Musa (204-F-80) finished with 14 points in the loss.
Ahli came up with another quite surprising victory of the day. They shot down Sadd 100:73 as Enique Clemons (180-G-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) stepped up with 30 points and 12 boards. Eyoum had 28 points for the winners. Daoud Musa (193-G-82) answered with 22 points for Sadd.
Arabi defeated Wakrah 76:69 for the initial win. Michael Cuffee (193-F-83, college: Middle Tenn.St.) stepped up with 23 points and 10 rebounds to pace the victors. Matthew Burston (210-F/C-82) accounted for 13 points and 23 rebounds in the win. Darren Kelly (190-G-78, college: Texas) notched 30 points for Wakrah.
Jaysh toppled Qatar Club behind 17 points from Ali Turki (201-F-82). Mike Cook (193-G/F-84, college: Pittsburgh) banked 18 points for Qatar Club.

Ahli, Wakrah and Arabi strengthen rosters - by Eurobasket News
Some of the teams bolstered their rosters prior to the start of Emir Cup. Ahli brought in Enique Clemons (180-G-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri). The 30-year-old guard started the season in Lebanon. In March he moved to Durassafaka in Turkey. Enique Clemons tallied 15.0 points, 6.6 assists and 3.4 boards per game in TB2L. The guard had stints in Ukraine, Slovenia, Poland, Latvia, ABA and USBL.
Wakrah added Darren Kelly (190-G-78, college: Texas) to the squad. The 32-year-old guard started the season in Ittihad in Egypt. Last season Darren Kelly played in Egypt, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Darren Kelly was named Asia-Basket.com All-Arab Club Championship MVP in 2010.
Arabi landed Matthew Burston (210-F/C-82). The 28-year-old centre has just finished the season in Australian NBL. Matthew Burston tallied 8.9 points, 6.7 boards and 1.2 assists per game for the Melbourne Tigers. He used to play for Arabi back in 2009.

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

ROMANIA

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

LeRoy DAWSON
  Politehnica Iasi
  (188-G-81)
  Avg: 22.3

1. Dawson, Polite.	22.3
2. Hannah, Miercure.	20.9
3. Dykes, U.Mobite.	20.8
4. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.	20.8
5. Horton, Craiova	20.1
6. Tomic, CSM B.	19.6
7. Vujacic, Pitesti	19.3
8. Darby, Rovinari	19.1
9. Pesic, Timisoara	18.8
10. Gennie, Pitesti	18.3

Rebounds Per Game

Kenneth SIMMS
  Craiova
  (203-C-)
  Avg: 11.2

1. Simms, Craiova	11.2
2. Coleman, Miercure.	9.7
3. Nicoara, Gaz Metan	9.6
4. Bennett, CSM B.	9.6
5. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.	9.3
6. Bigus, Rovinari	8.9
7. Forte, Mures	8.7
8. Burlacu, Ploiesti	7.7
9. Harrison, CSU Sibiu	7.7
10. Eichelberger, Pitesti	7.7

Assists Per Game

JuJuan COOLEY
  Mures
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 8.3

1. Cooley, Mures	8.3
2. Dzambic, CSM B.	7.9
3. Hannah, Miercure.	6.3
4. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN	5.4
5. Stojakovic, Craiova	5.2
6. Howell, Gaz Metan	5.1
7. Blidaru, Ploiesti	5.1
8. Medvedj, Otopeni	4.8
9. Gennie, Pitesti	4.7
10. Maric, Oradea	4.6

Steals Per Game

Jarrett HOWELL
  Gaz Metan
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Howell, Gaz Metan	2.5
2. Stojakovic, Craiova	2.5
3. Harrison, CSU Sibiu	2.4
4. Cooley, Mures	2.4
5. Gennie, Pitesti	2.4
6. Mitchell, Gaz Metan	2.4
7. Dykes, U.Mobite.	2.1
8. Blidaru, Ploiesti	2.0
9. Dawson, Polite.	2.0
10. Medvedj, Otopeni	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Michael HARRISON
  CSU Sibiu
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Harrison, CSU Sibiu	1.8
2. Eichelberger, Pitesti	1.6
3. Capusan, Rovinari	1.6
4. Masiulis, CSU S.	1.5
5. Herndon, CSU Sibiu	1.5
6. Mladenovic, Mures	1.4
7. Simms, Craiova	1.3
8. Lazar, Oradea	1.3
9. Thomson, U.Mobite.	0.9
10. Dragusin, Gaz M.	0.9

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

RUSSIA

Maciej Lampe gets MVP of the Week award for Russian PBL - by Eurobasket News
Polish-Swedish Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader Unics Kazan and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
The 25-year old center had a double-double of 21 points and twelve rebounds, while his team beat Dynamo (#9, 6-15) 84-70. It allowed Unics to consolidate first place in the Russian PBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Unics has a very solid 15-5 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. Lampe turned to be Unics' top player in his first season with the team. Lampe has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (4th best: 15.7ppg) and rebounds (3rd best: 7.0rpg).

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old American center Lonny Baxter (204-C-79, agency: Priority Sports) of Enisey Krasnoyarsk. Baxter impressed basketball fans with 35 points and 6 rebounds. It was enough for Enisey to edge the lower-ranked Triumph (#10, 4-16) by 1 point 98-97. Enisey's 6th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 10-10 record is not bad and everything may still change. Baxter is a newcomer at Enisey and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.9ppg (#2). He also registered 6.8 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Croatian Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) of Khimky (#3). Planinic showcased his all-around game by recording 24 points, seven rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of Khimky, leading his team to a 104-95 win against #4 ranked Spartak SP in a game of the week. Khimky needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 7 lost games. Planinic has a great season in Russia. After 19 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 3.9apg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Tywain McKee (188-G-86) of Triumph - 32 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Primoz Brezec (216-F/C-79) of Krasnie Krilya - 17 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Alando Tucker (198-F-84) of Lokomotiv - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Henry Domercant (192-G-80) of Spartak SP - 27 points and 2 rebounds
8. Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) of Enisey - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Aleksey Kotishevskiy (196-F/G-85) of Spartak SP - 15 points and 5 rebounds
10. Miha Zupan (205-F/C-82) of Spartak SP - 16 points and 6 rebounds

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

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

SAUDI ARABIA

D1 Standings

D1 Standings

1. Al Ittihad		18-1
2. Al Ansar		16-4
3. Al Hilal		16-4
4. Al Fateh		15-5
5. Ohud		10-6
6. Al Nahda		8-9
7. Al Wahda		8-10
8. Al Ahli		8-11
9. Al Jubail		4-14
10. Al Safwa		3-16
11. Al Maseerah		2-16
12. Al Shrooq		2-16

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

SERBIA

Superleague Round 7: Partizan beats Hemofarm, stays on top alone - by Eurobasket News
Superleague is at the halfway and there are still another 7 rounds left.

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Hemofarm (5-2) in Vrsac on Tuesday night. Hosts were defeated by Partizan (6-1) 90-76. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hemofarm. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 5-1 record before this meeting. The game was mostly controlled by Partizan. Hemofarm managed to win third quarter 20-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 29-of-37 free shots (78.4 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Hemofarm helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for the former international forward Dusan Kecman (197-77, agency: Beo Basket) who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Rasko Katic (208-80, agency: Beo Basket) helped adding 14 points and 8 rebounds. At the losing side Montenegrin guard Miljan Pavkovic (178-81, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 9 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Partizan have a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader. Hemofarm at the other side dropped to the second place with two games lost. They share the position with Radnicki. Partizan are looking forward to face Metalac (#5) in Valjevo in the next round. Hemofarm will play at home against Mega Vizura and is hoping to win this game.
Important game to mention about took place in Vizura. Fifth ranked Crvena Zvezda (3-3) saved a 3-point victory on the road edging 8th ranked Mega Vizura (1-6) 84-81 on Tuesday evening. It was an exceptional evening for Montenegrin guard Boris Bakic (194-86, agency: Beo Basket) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 assists. Strahinja Dragicevic accounted for 18 points and 7 rebounds. Turkish center Dusan Cantekin (222-90, agency: Beo Basket) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds for Mega Vizura in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Crvena Zvezda moved-up to fourth place. Mega Vizura lost fourth consecutive game. Mega Vizura at the other side keeps the eighth position with six games lost. Crvena Zvezda will play against higher ranked Radnicki (#3) in Kragujevac in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Mega Vizura will play on the road against the league's second-placed Hemofarm (#2) in Vrsac to get more than just one victory in their record.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Radnicki (5-2) against seventh ranked FMP Zeleznik (2-5) on Tuesday night. Visiting Radnicki was defeated by FMP Zeleznik in a tough game in Beograd 83-87. Mile Ilic fired 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Steven Markovic produced 15 points and 6 assists for lost side. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. FMP Zeleznik maintains seventh place with 2-5 record. Loser Radnicki keeps the second position with two games lost. They share it with Hemofarm. FMP Zeleznik's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Beograd OKK Beograd.
The game in Valjevo supposed to be also worth to mention about. 5th ranked OKK Beograd (2-4) played at the court of sixth ranked Metalac (3-4). Metalac smashed OKK Beograd 89-62. Worth to mention a great performance of Marko Ljubicic who helped to win the game recording 6 points, 15 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Metalac moved-up to fifth place. OKK Beograd at the other side dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. Metalac's next round opponent will be league's leader Partizan in Beograd and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. OKK Beograd's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Beograd to the arena FMP Zeleznik.

Metalac - Beograd 89-62

The game in Valjevo supposed to be also worth to mention about. 5th ranked OKK Beograd (2-4) played at the court of sixth ranked Metalac (3-4). Metalac smashed OKK Beograd 89-62. The game without a history. Metalac led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to OKK Beograd's 42 and made 22-of-27 charity shots (81.5 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by OKK Beograd helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Marko Ljubicic (197-87) who helped to win the game recording 6 points, 15 rebounds, 9 assists and 4 steals. Power forward Stefan Bircevic (209-89) contributed with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Metalac players scored in double figures. Power forward Dragan Zekovic (210-87, agency: Interperformances) answered with 11 points and 6 rebounds and swingman Srdjan Zivkovic (200-86, agency: 011 Sports) added 10 points in the effort for OKK Beograd. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Metalac moved-up to fifth place. OKK Beograd at the other side dropped to the sixth position with four games lost. Metalac's next round opponent will be league's leader Partizan in Beograd and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. OKK Beograd's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Beograd to the arena FMP Zeleznik.
Top scorers:
Metalac: S.Bircevic 20+6reb+1ast, S.Sinovec 17+2reb+4ast, R.Marojevic 16+2reb, M.Trtic 12+1reb+2ast, D.Bunic 8+4reb, D.Kruscic 8+4reb+1ast
Beograd: D.Zekovic 11+6reb, A.Tanaskovic 10+1reb, S.Zivkovic 10+2reb+2ast, M.Pavlovic 9+3reb, S.Knezevic 6+3reb+1ast, S.Stanojevic 4+5reb+1ast

FMP - Radnicki 87-83

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Radnicki (5-2) against seventh ranked FMP Zeleznik (2-5) on Tuesday night. Visiting Radnicki was defeated by FMP Zeleznik in a tough game in Beograd 83-87. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Radnicki won third quarter 22-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Naturalized Bosnian center Mile Ilic (215-84, agency: Beo Basket) fired 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Guard Filip Covic (180-89, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 13 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Four FMP Zeleznik players scored in double figures. Naturalized Australian guard Steven Markovic (190-85) produced 15 points and 6 assists and swingman Marko Cakarevic (200-88, agency: Interperformances) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. FMP Zeleznik maintains seventh place with 2-5 record. Loser Radnicki keeps the second position with two games lost. They share it with Hemofarm. FMP Zeleznik's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Beograd OKK Beograd.
Top scorers:
FMP: M.Ilic 21+7reb+2ast, B.Lazic 13+2reb+3ast, F.Covic 13+6reb+4ast, I.Smiljanic 10+3reb+2ast, V.Ivelja 8+3reb+1ast, M.Dimic 7+5reb+3ast
Radnicki: S.Markovic 15+2reb+6ast, M.Cakarevic 12+5reb, M.Lee 11+2reb+1ast, S.Stojacic 9+5reb, N.Sulovic 9+2reb+1ast, P.Miletic 8+3reb+1ast

Mega Vizura - Crvena Zvezda 81-84

Important game to mention about took place in Vizura. Fifth ranked Crvena Zvezda (3-3) saved a 3-point victory on the road edging 8th ranked Mega Vizura (1-6) 84-81 on Tuesday evening. The guests were already 11 points ahead after 3 quarters before a 29-21 Mega Vizura's run in the last quarter cut the lead to 84-81 at the end of the game. It was an exceptional evening for Montenegrin guard Boris Bakic (194-86, agency: Beo Basket) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 assists. Forward Strahinja Dragicevic (203-86) accounted for 18 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. Five Crvena Zvezda players scored in double figures. Turkish center Dusan Cantekin (222-90, agency: Beo Basket) came up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds and guard Branko Milisavljevic (193-76, agency: Beo Basket) added 26 points respectively for Mega Vizura in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Crvena Zvezda moved-up to fourth place. Mega Vizura lost fourth consecutive game. Mega Vizura at the other side keeps the eighth position with six games lost. Crvena Zvezda will play against higher ranked Radnicki (#3) in Kragujevac in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Mega Vizura will play on the road against the league's second-placed Hemofarm (#2) in Vrsac to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Crvena Zvezda: S.Dragicevic 18+7reb+1ast, B.Bakic 18+4reb+12ast, V.Subotic 15+2reb+1ast, A.Cvetkovic 12+2reb, U.Nikolic 10+6reb, N.Nedovic 7+4reb+3ast
Mega Vizura: B.Milisavljevic 26+3reb+3ast, D.Cantekin 22+13reb, S.Jelovac 17+9reb+3ast, A.Mitrovic 8+6reb, V.Micic 4+2reb, D.Cvetkovic 2+3reb

Hemofarm - Partizan 76-90

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Hemofarm (5-2) in Vrsac on Tuesday night. Hosts were defeated by Partizan (6-1) 90-76. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hemofarm. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 5-1 record before this meeting. The game was mostly controlled by Partizan. Hemofarm managed to win third quarter 20-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 29-of-37 free shots (78.4 percent) during the game. 26 personal fouls committed by Hemofarm helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for the former international forward Dusan Kecman (197-77, agency: Beo Basket) who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Rasko Katic (208-80, agency: Beo Basket) helped adding 14 points and 8 rebounds. Four Partizan players scored in double figures. At the losing side Montenegrin guard Miljan Pavkovic (178-81, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 9 points and 5 rebounds and guard Danilo Andjusic (197-91, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Partizan have a solid series of four victories in a row. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader. Hemofarm at the other side dropped to the second place with two games lost. They share the position with Radnicki. Partizan are looking forward to face Metalac (#5) in Valjevo in the next round. Hemofarm will play at home against Mega Vizura and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Partizan: C.Jerrells 18+2reb+1ast, D.Kecman 15+5reb+4ast, R.Katic 14+8reb+1ast, J.Gist 12+6reb, V.Lucic 9+1reb, D.Milosavljevic 7+3reb
Hemofarm: D.Andjusic 16+1ast, M.Sutalo 11+1reb+1ast, M.Pavkovic 9+5reb+3ast, M.Jeremic 8+5reb+3ast, M.Bozovic 7+8reb+1ast, I.Maras 7+2reb+1ast

Standings - A Liga

A Standings

SuperLeague
1. Partizan		6-1
2. Hemofarm		5-2
3. Radnicki		5-2
4. Crvena Zvezda		3-3
5. Metalac		3-4
6. Beograd		2-4
7. FMP		2-5
8. Mega Vizura		1-6
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

Branko MILISAVLJEVIC
  Mega Vizura
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 20.5

1. Milisavljevi., Mega V.	20.5
2. Janjusevic, Crnok.	18.8
3. Sinovec, Metalac	18.5
4. Micevic, Sloboda .	17.6
5. Bozovic, Sloga	17.4
6. Bunic, Novi Sad	16.6
7. Kovacevic, Super.	16.3
8. Zekovic, Beograd	16.3
9. Majkic, Prolet.	16.2
10. Sulovic, Napredak	16.0

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Markovic, FMP	7.8
2. Ljubicic, Metalac	7.6
3. Cantekin, Mega V.	7.4
4. Jelovac, Mega V.	6.8
5. Majkic, Prolet.	6.6
6. Cubrilo, Sloga	6.4
7. Bozovic, Sloga	6.4
8. Djurovic, Crnokosa	6.4
9. Sulovic, Napredak	6.3
10. Borovcanin, Sloga	6.3

Assists Per Game

Marko LJUBICIC
  Metalac
  (197-F-87)
  Avg: 6.2

1. Ljubicic, Metalac	6.2
2. Zarkovic, Prolet.	6.0
3. Vlahovic, Sloga	5.1
4. Radivojevic, FMP	5.0
5. Milisavljevi., Mega V.	4.6
6. Mitrovic, Beograd	4.5
7. Covic, FMP	4.4
8. Kocergin, Superfund	4.3
9. Atanackovic, Prolet.	4.3
10. Kovacevic, Novi Sad	3.7

Steals Per Game

Slobodan DUNDJERSKI
  Beograd
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 3

1. Dundjerski, Beograd	3.0
2. Kuzeta, Novi Sad	2.7
3. Gagovic, Prolet.	2.3
4. Ljubicic, Metalac	2.2
5. Mukanovic, Crnok.	2.0
6. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	2.0
7. Kovacevic, Novi Sad	1.9
8. Jovic, Sloga	1.9
9. Vulin, Prolet.	1.8
10. Majkic, Prolet.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Stefan BIRCEVIC
  Metalac
  (209-F/C-89)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Bircevic, Metalac	1.3
2. Ilic, FMP	1.2
3. Majkic, Prolet.	1.1
4. Cantekin, Mega V.	1.0
5. Marjanovic, Vojvo.	0.9
6. Buric, Tamis	0.8
7. Ljubojevic, Slobod.	0.8
8. Karalic, Crnokosa	0.7
9. Dramicanin, Mega V.	0.7
10. Lucic, Beograd	0.7

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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. Carter, Vahostav.	20.4
5. Delic, Handlova	20.2
6. Sapp, Pezinok	20.2
7. Tomek, Nitra	19.4
8. Jackson, Komarno	19.2
9. Lukjanec, Pezinok	17.6
10. Cosic, Svit	17.5

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Tomek, Nitra	12.4
2. Jackson, Komarno	11.2
3. Delic, Handlova	9.3
4. Szalay, Prievidza	8.8
5. Micuda, Pezinok	8.2
6. Johnson, Nova Ves	8.2
7. Carter, Vahostav.	8.1
8. Johnson, Komarno	7.9
9. Burrows, Komarno	7.6
10. Dorazil, Svit	7.5

Assists Per Game

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

1. Moore, Nitra	6.9
2. Jones, Komarno	6.4
3. Jefferson, Nova Ves	5.8
4. Fears, Prievidza	5.6
5. Cosic, Svit	5.2
6. English, Levice	5.1
7. Sapp, Pezinok	4.4
8. Milosevic, Pezinok	4.1
9. Kostomaj, Levice	4.1
10. Gavlak, Handlova	3.9

Steals Per Game

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

1. Fears, Prievidza	3.1
2. English, Levice	2.6
3. Carter, Vahostav.	2.5
4. Moore, Nitra	2.4
5. Jefferson, Nova Ves	2.1
6. Nuber, Handlova	2.1
7. Jones, Komarno	2.0
8. Sapp, Pezinok	2.0
9. Zavodny, Vahost.	1.8
10. Zilik, Inter B.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Peter MICUDA
  Inter Bratislava
  (206-C-72)
  Avg: 1.9

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

Levice and Zilina tie the Semi-Finals series - by Eurobasket News
Levice and Zilina tie the Semi-Finals series at 1-1 with their opponents.

Levice - Nova Ves 84-57

The game without a history. Levice led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Levice outrebounded Nova Ves 52-31 including a 37-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. Nova Ves were plagued by 28 personal fouls down the stretch. American forward Esian Henderson (203-86, college: Cent.Missouri) had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and British center Michael Bernard (205-78, college: S.Florida) chipped in 13 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Four Levice players scored in double figures. International center Michal Batka (204-87) responded with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 12 rebounds and Polish center Pawel Mroz (215-84) scored 9 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Levice: E.Henderson 22+13reb+2ast, M.Bernard 13+9reb, D.Toroman 12+1reb+3ast, J.Vojtek 11+6reb+1ast, R.Urland 8+1reb+1ast, T.Kostomaj 7+5reb+2ast
Nova Ves: M.Bartos 11, M.Batka 10+12reb+2ast, P.Mroz 9+3reb, L.Johnson 6+3reb+1ast, S.Becarik 5+1ast, D.Demecko 4+1reb+2ast

Vahostav-Zilina - Nitra 77-76

The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Nitra won fourth quarter 20-14. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Serbian center Dejan Stojanovic (206-78) saved the victory by scoring 22 points and 6 rebounds. American forward Justin Carter (193-87, college: Creighton) contributed with 14 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Vahostav-Zilina players scored in double figures. American guard Ronald Moore (183-88, college: Siena) replied with 21 points and 6 assists and his fellow American import guard J.J. Montgomery (196-82, college: Arkansas St.) added 24 points in the effort for Nitra.
Top scorers:
Vahostav-Zilina: D.Stojanovic 22+6reb+2ast, L.Hoferica 15+2reb+2ast, J.Carter 14+6reb+1ast, V.Kosa 10+1reb+1ast, A.McCoy 8+2reb+1ast, J.Zavodny 7+6reb+1ast
Nitra: J.Montgomery 24+3reb+2ast, R.Moore 21+4reb+6ast, R.Grafs 9+1reb+1ast, M.Jass 7+3reb+1ast, D.Erwin 7+9reb+2ast, S.Votroubek 6+3reb+3ast

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SLOVENIA

Raymond's 26 points give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
23-year old swingman Benjamin Raymond (198-G/F-87, agency: Impact Basketball) put on an amazing game in the last round for Helios and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 6 (Second Stage).
He had the game-high 26 points adding five rebounds and two assists for Helios in his team's victory, helping them to beat Geoplin Slovan (#6, 2-4) in overtime 98-87. Helios maintains the 4th position in Slovenian league. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Second Stage. Helios will need more victories to improve their 4-2 record. Raymond just recently signed at Helios, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Xavier University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Raymond is in league's top in points (5th best: 15.1ppg), rebounds (5th best: 7.2rpg) and averages solid 54.5% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Vladimir Panic (194-F-82, agency: 011 Sports) of league's second-best Zlatorog Lasko. He is Serbian forward in his first season at Zlatorog. In the last game Panic recorded impressive 32 points and 7 rebounds. Bad luck as Zlatorog was edged by the lower-ranked Elektra (#7, 1-5) 85-83. Zlatorog managed to keep the same second spot in the standings. His team's 4-2 record is not bad at all. Panic is a newcomer at Zlatorog and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 21.3ppg (#1). He also registered 4.4 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Christopher Booker (208-F/C-81, agency: Lanshire Group) of league's leader Krka. Booker scored 24 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of Krka, leading his team to a 92-59 easy win against the lower-ranked Maribor Messer (#8, 1-5). Krka started extremely well this Second Stage. They recorded 6 victories without losing a single game. Booker turns to be one of the very best players in the league while he is also a leader of the top team having his eyes on the championship title. Booker has a very solid season. In 6 games in Slovenia he scored 8.8ppg. He also has 4.7rpg and FGP: 56.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ilija Zolotic (207-F/C-86) of Maribor Messer - 19 points and 11 rebounds
5. Matej Krusic (211-C-87) of Geoplin Slovan - 21 points and 8 rebounds
6. Ziga Zagorc (188-G-84) of Helios - 18 points and 3 rebounds
7. Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77) of Krka - 9 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Salih Nuhanovic (209-C-82) of Elektra - 15 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Matej Venta (187-G-84) of Polzela - 11 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) of Union Olimpija - 19 points and 5 rebounds

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

Standings - 1A

Telemach Standings

Group A
1. Krka		6-0
2. Zlatorog		4-2
3. Union Olimpija		4-2
4. Helios		4-2
5. Polzela		2-4
6. Geoplin Slovan		2-4
7. Elektra		1-5
8. Maribor Messer		1-5
Group B
1. Sentjur		9-11
2. LTHcast Mercator		5-15
3. Parklji		1-19

Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game

Vladimir PANIC
  Zlatorog
  (194-F-82)
  Avg: 21.3

1. Panic, Zlatorog	21.3
2. Simovic, Sentjur	17.4
3. Erzen, Parklji	16.9
4. Thondique, Polzela	16.3
5. Raymond, Helios	15.1
6. Harmason, Sentjur	15.1
7. Djapa, Geoplin Slovan	14.9
8. Mijajlovic, Polzela	14.2
9. Nuhanovic, Elektra	13.9
10. Mali, Helios	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Thondique, Polzela	10.5
2. Simovic, Sentjur	8.9
3. Nuhanovic, Elektra	8.2
4. Miljkovic, Elektra	7.6
5. Raymond, Helios	7.2
6. Krusic, Geoplin .	7.1
7. Zolotic, Maribor .	6.2
8. Erzen, Parklji	6.1
9. Cebasek, Parklji	5.9
10. Paravinja, Parklji	5.9

Assists Per Game

Primoz BROLIH
  Maribor Messer
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Brolih, Maribor .	4.5
2. Jersin, Elektra	4.5
3. Mijajlovic, Polzela	4.4
4. Hohler, Sentjur	3.9
5. Harmason, Sentjur	3.8
6. Vujasinovic, Zlatorog	3.8
7. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	3.5
8. Zagorc, Helios	3.0
9. Petrovic, Helios	2.8
10. Pelko, Zlatorog	2.7

Steals Per Game

Gregg THONDIQUE
  Polzela
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Thondique, Polzela	2.3
2. Vranjkovic, Helios	1.9
3. Mezek, LTHcast .	1.9
4. Mahkovic, LTHcas.	1.6
5. Harmason, Sentjur	1.6
6. Zagorc, Helios	1.5
7. Fon, Geoplin Slovan	1.5
8. Zadnik, Geoplin .	1.5
9. Vujasinovic, Zlatorog	1.5
10. Lapornik, Zlatorog	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 2

1. Nuhanovic, Elektra	2.0
2. Thondique, Polzela	1.2
3. Dimec, Zlatorog	1.2
4. Sviridov, Polzela	0.8
5. Lapornik, Zlatorog	0.7
6. Sebic, Sentjur	0.6
7. Djapa, Geoplin Slovan	0.6
8. Bubnic, Helios	0.6
9. Mijajlovic, Zlatorog	0.6
10. Vrsaljko, Polzela	0.5

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SOUTH AMERICAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Dwight took The Blue Express - by Wolfgang Lucena
Trotamundos of Carabobo's General Manager Gustavo Garcia Saez announces that Dwight Lewis (196-G-87, college: USC) whom born in La Guaira Venezuela on October 7, 1987 but grew up in the United States of America, will join the 'The Blue Express' this upcoming Sunday April 24, 2011. Dwight played college basketball at NCAA level with Southern California where he finished as one of the best three points shooters of the University's history. Others professional basketball teams from Venezuela chasing Dwight's signature were Marinos de Anzotegui and Cocodrilos de Caracas, but finally the shooting guard got an agreement with Trotamundos.

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TUNISIA

D1 Round 22 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The biggest surprise of round 22 was guest C.S. Cheminots' (#7) road victory over U.S. Monastir (#8) 81-77 on Wednesday evening. C.S. Cheminots maintains seventh position with 10-12 record. U.S. Monastir at the other side keeps the eighth place with 13 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Third-ranked Ezzahra (13-9) made lots of trouble for second ranked Stade Nabeulien (20-2). The visitors from Nabeul managed to secure only two-point victory 64-62. However their fans expected easier game. Stade Nabeulien maintains second position with 20-2 record behind leader ES Sahel. Ezzahra at the other side dropped to the fourth place with nine games lost.
Bottom-ranked C.Tunisair managed to get a fifth victory, breaking the ten-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time they won against tenth-ranked JS Manazeh 86-78. C.Tunisair maintains twelfth position with 5-17 record. JS Manazeh lost seventh consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth place with 16 games lost. They share the position with EOG Kram and CA Bizerte.

Leader ES Sahel delivered the twentieth first win. This time they crushed 9th ranked E.O.G. Kram (6-16) 106-53 in Sousse. ES Sahel (21-1) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They maintain first position. E.O.G. Kram at the other side keeps the ninth place with 16 games lost.
The game in Kairouan was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Club Africain (11-11) played at the court of sixth ranked JS Kairouan (11-11). JS Kairouan did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 87-70 on Wednesday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Club Africain. JS Kairouan moved-up to fifth place, which they share with C Africain.

In the last game of round 22 CA Bizerte was defeated by ES Rades in a road game 73-67.

ES Rades - CA Bizerte 73-67

There was no surprise when 11th ranked CA Bizerte (6-16) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked ES Rades (14-8) 73-67 on Wednesday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. ES Rades have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to third place. Loser CA Bizerte dropped to the ninth position with 16 games lost.

JS Kairouan - C Africain 87-70

The game in Kairouan was also quite interesting. 5th ranked Club Africain (11-11) played at the court of sixth ranked JS Kairouan (11-11). JS Kairouan did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 87-70 on Wednesday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Club Africain. JS Kairouan moved-up to fifth place, which they share with C Africain.

US Monastir - C Cheminots 77-81

The biggest surprise of round 22 was guest C.S. Cheminots' (#7) road victory over U.S. Monastir (#8) 81-77 on Wednesday evening. C.S. Cheminots maintains seventh position with 10-12 record. U.S. Monastir at the other side keeps the eighth place with 13 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

Ezzahra - Stade Nabeulien 62-64

Third-ranked Ezzahra (13-9) made lots of trouble for second ranked Stade Nabeulien (20-2). The visitors from Nabeul managed to secure only two-point victory 64-62. However their fans expected easier game. Stade Nabeulien maintains second position with 20-2 record behind leader ES Sahel. Ezzahra at the other side dropped to the fourth place with nine games lost.

ES Sahel - EOG Kram 106-53

Leader ES Sahel delivered the twentieth first win. This time they crushed 9th ranked E.O.G. Kram (6-16) 106-53 in Sousse. ES Sahel (21-1) have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They maintain first position. E.O.G. Kram at the other side keeps the ninth place with 16 games lost.

C Tunisair - JS Manazeh 86-78

Bottom-ranked C.Tunisair managed to get a fifth victory, breaking the ten-game losing streak on Wednesday night. This time they won against tenth-ranked JS Manazeh 86-78. C.Tunisair maintains twelfth position with 5-17 record. JS Manazeh lost seventh consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth place with 16 games lost. They share the position with EOG Kram and CA Bizerte.

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TURKEY

TB2L Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Anderson, Basak.	21.9
2. Nelson, Akhisar Bld	20.4
3. Hall, Kepez Bld	20.2
4. Johnson, Vestel	19.7
5. Gardener, Final G.	18.5
6. Boswell, Basaksehir	18.3
7. Tekinalp, ITU	17.6
8. Boykin, Gaziantep	17.5
9. Dearman, Hacett.	17.1
10. Boddicker, Selcuk U.	16.9

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Keep, Adanaspor	12.8
2. Terell, Adanaspor	11.9
3. Nelson, Akhisar Bld	11.3
4. Gardener, Final G.	11.3
5. Isik, Pertevniyal	10.1
6. Johnson, Istanbul.	10.0
7. Kolaric, Genc Banvit	9.8
8. Johnson, Vestel	9.8
9. Wright, Orman Genc	9.3
10. Miller, Gelisim	9.3

Assists Per Game

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

1. Kan, TED Istanbul	6.1
2. Ogut, Genc Telekom	6.0
3. Hall, Kepez Bld	5.8
4. Bayrak, Usak	5.3
5. Topcu, Gelisim	4.9
6. Topcu, Izmir B.B.	4.8
7. Anderson, Basak.	4.8
8. Erdogan, Adanaspor	4.8
9. Eris, Vestel	4.5
10. Ay, Final Genclik	4.5

Steals Per Game

Tyrone ANDERSON
  Champville
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Anderson, Basak.	2.8
2. Hall, Kepez Bld	2.6
3. Yonder, Genc Banvit	2.2
4. Nelson, Akhisar Bld	2.2
5. Harris, FMV I.	1.8
6. Delicay, Gaziantep	1.7
7. Karabulut, Orman G.	1.7
8. Clarkson, TED I.	1.7
9. Bayrak, Usak	1.7
10. Yikilmaz, Pertevniyal	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Arthur JOHNSON
  Vestel
  (206-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2

1. Johnson, Vestel	2.0
2. Anderson, Basak.	1.8
3. Clarkson, TED I.	1.6
4. Kulcebas, Hacett.	1.6
5. Boswell, Basaksehir	1.5
6. Turkyilmaz, Genc B.	1.5
7. Smith, Usak	1.4
8. Johnson, Istanbul.	1.4
9. Toyloy, Istanbul.	1.3
10. Terell, Adanaspor	1.3

First finalist is Konya Selcuk... - by Mustafa Bozkurt
One best team of Turkey Division 2 - Optimum TED College started the season for making it Top Division but they lost against Konya Selcuk University at the quarter final. Ted College firstly shocked everybody in the first game at Ankara. They lost with 2 (85-87) points at their home and yesterday they lost the second game with 2 points again (68-66). The first half of the game the score was (27-40) but in the last quarter Konya Selcuk came with huge support of their 4000 fan on the gym and close the 19 points difference and won the game. One of the best coaches of Turkish Basketball - Halil Uner did great job with his team and make it final four. Konya Selcuk is one of the most important candidate for TOP Division.

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Top V.I. prep basketball stars to play in annual Sun Stroke Hoops Classic (wirth new roster) - by David Edole
The top prep basketball players from the territory will have one last chance to shine in front of a packed house when the 13th annual Sun Stroke All-V.I. Hoop Classic tips off April 22-23.

The Classic will pit the best boys and girls high school basketball players from St. Thomas against the top players from St. Croix at Central High's Ronald Charles Arena. The girls game will start at 7 p.m. and the boys game will follow.

'In the very first all-star game, they played in T-shirts and now we have nice jerseys from Adidas, so we've come a long way,' said Sun Stroke Promotions President Rashidi Clenance, who co-organizes the event. 'We've also had some great games over the years and the series is pretty balanced.'

The St. Croix boys won last year to double up their all-time series lead to 8-4, while the Lady Crucians also won last year to tie the series with St. Thomas, 6-6.

Sun Stroke Promotions pays for all the players' travel costs and hotel accommodations, Clenance said, while NBA standout Tim Duncan, a St. Croix native, has been a major sponsor of the event for the last nine years.

Last year's boys game was highlighted by an up-tempo pace, which led to high-flying dunks and fearless block attempts. The scoring for the girls game was very balanced as all 11 St. Croix players who entered the game scored.

Clenance's original vision for the all-star games 13 years ago was for the territory's top talents to meet on the court for one premiere game that would attract college scouts and coaches.

'The games are well-promoted and well-attended, but not many college coaches regularly attend,' said Clenance, who played alongside Duncan in high school and graduated from St. Joseph's on St. Croix in 1993. 'That's why we've incorporated the videotaping. We make the DVDs and send them out to any coaches who are interested in our kids.'

Over the years, the DVDs have assisted several local products earn spots on college programs. David Edole, another co-organizer for the event, said a handful of community college coaches and scouts will be in attendance for the games this year.

'We're also trying to put together camps on St. Thomas and St. Croix the week after so coaches can really get to know the kids trying to play in college,' he said.

The action starts Friday with a celebrity game that will feature local senators, entertainers and media personalities. Live bands will perform.

Saturday's game also will have local high school marching bands and another live band will start to perform at 6 p.m., about an hour before the first game tips off. After the awards ceremony, an after-party will be held in the arena.

-sports writer Aaron Gray

Donald Bough
1. Melanisiah Hendrickson (CHS)
2. Lanese Bough (CHS)
3. Veronique Llanos (EC)
4. Jada Edwards (CHS)
5. Jovanna John (CHS)
6. Neandra Auguste (EC)
7. Laquinda Isle (EC)
8. Kadeesha Barry (CHS)
9. Julissa Thomas (EC)
10. Krysta Peter (CHS)

Dean Heywood
1. Kadeem Jones (CHS)
2. Raydel Denis (EC)
3. Tamoi Francis (EC)
4. Razeem Huggins (CHS)
5. Amali Krigger (EC)
6. Melvine Adams (EC)
7. Kareem Harris (Manor)
8. Michael Nelthrop (CDS)
9. Reno Motta (CHS)
10. Shomari Francis (CHS)

Female St. Thomas All Stars will be coached by Regular Season
Champions from the Chicken Hawks Myron Corbett
1. Eddiong Utibe (Antilles)
2. Akia Frett (EK)
3. TeAndra Richardson (CA)
4. Sakile Brathwaite-Hall (Antilles)
5. Kelssy Trass (CA)
6. Rhea Simon (SA)
7. Alanah George (EK)
8. Merrisa Murphey (CA)
9. Shaniqua Wheatley (CA)
10. Jerusha Corbett (CA)

Male St. Thomas All Stars will be coached by Regular Season Champions
from the Chicken Hawks Pedrito Estrill
1. Ageyi Gregory (Antilles)
2. Merwin Potter (CA)
3. Xavier Richards (EK)
4. Deshawn Creque (CA)
5. Dornell Weaver (Antilles)
6. Anamuko Utibe (Antilles)
7. Brandon Wynter (AS)
8. Cursim Hansen (CA)
9. Deland Isidore (EK)
10. Shanoui Miller (CA)

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UKRAINE

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Budivelnyk		36-11
2. BC Donetsk		35-11
3. Azovmash		29-17
4. Hoverla		28-18
5. Mykolaiv		26-20
6. Ferro-ZNTU		24-23
7. Dnipro		23-23
8. Kryvbasbasket		21-25
9. DniproAzot		19-27
10. Halychyna		17-30
11. BC Odessa		17-30
12. Khimik		15-31
13. BC Kyiv		11-35

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Steve BURTT
  Dnipro
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 22.8

1. Burtt, Dnipro	22.8
2. Burns, Fe.	17.0
3. Curry, Azovmash	16.7
4. Flores, BC Donetsk	16.7
5. Washington, BC Od.	16.4
6. Wiggins, Halychyna	15.0
7. Millage, Khimik	14.9
8. Fraser, DniproAzot	14.8
9. Williams, Halychyna	14.7
10. Bakic, Kryvbasb.	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.	8.6
4. Saltovets, BC Kyiv	7.6
5. Austin, Dnipro	7.3
6. Morrison, Halyc.	7.2
7. Chappell, Hoverla	6.9
8. Hunter, Fe.	6.8
9. Owens, Azovmash	6.7
10. Sandul, BC Kyiv	6.4

Assists Per Game

Todd ABERNETHY
  Halychyna
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 5.2

1. Abernethy, Halyc.	5.2
2. Burtt, Dnipro	5.0
3. Zimmerman, Hoverla	5.0
4. Vasiljevic, BC Do.	4.7
5. Funn, Halychyna	4.7
6. Sparks, BC Odessa	4.6
7. Millage, Khimik	4.6
8. Brewer, BC Odessa	4.5
9. Slipenchuk, Kryvba.	4.2
10. Harris, Fe.	4.1

Steals Per Game

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

1. Millage, Khimik	2.3
2. House, Azovmash	1.9
3. Sparks, BC Odessa	1.7
4. Sirutavicius, Dnipro.	1.6
5. Mazutis, Mykolaiv	1.5
6. Love, Mykolaiv	1.4
7. Greene, Mykolaiv	1.4
8. Funn, Halychyna	1.4
9. Burns, Fe.	1.4
10. Swanson, Hoverla	1.4

Blocks Per Game

James HUGHES
  Mykolaiv
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Hughes, Mykolaiv	2.1
2. Kravtsov, BC Do.	2.0
3. Hunter, Fe.	1.6
4. Zaitsev, Kryvbasb.	1.5
5. Morrison, Halyc.	1.4
6. Pettway, Dnipro	1.3
7. Turner, BC Odessa	1.3
8. Balashov, BC Odessa	1.3
9. Coleman, Hoverla	1.3
10. Agafonov, Budiv.	1.2

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URUGUAY

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings

1. Goes		2-0
2. Larranaga		2-0
3. Nacional		2-0
4. Urunday Univ.		2-0
5. Tabare		1-1
6. Yale		1-1
7. 25 de Agosto		0-2
8. Atenas		0-2
9. Capitol		0-2
10. Verdirrojo		0-2

Four leaders at the Metro League - by Hector Lopez
Larranaga and Nacional joined Goes and Urunday Universitario at the top of the Metro League with a 2-0 record after it was completed the second round. Larranaga beat Capitol 84-49. For Larranaga Santiago Moglia (196-F-89) netted 17 points wuth 6 rebounds and 5 assists while Jimmy Boston (201-F-77, college: N.C.Central) added 13 points and 6 rebounds. For Capitol Gordon James (198-F-79, college: Bridgeport) scored 8 points with 8 rebounds. Nacional defeated 25 de Agosto 90-68. For Nacional Emiliano Giano (180-G-89) scored 26 points, Ryan Blankson (201-F-80, college: Loyola, IL) added 10 points and grabbed 19 rebounds with 3 blocks. For 25 de Agosto, Federico Araujo (189-G-89) netted 18 points. Tabare beat Verdirrojo 62-39 with 20 points by Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles), who took 8 rebounds. For Verdirrojo Emiliano Baston (200-F-88) netted 19 points and took 10 rebounds.

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VENEZUELA

LPB Standings

1. Cocodrilos		19-4
2. Marinos		18-6
3. Trotamundos		16-7
4. Guaiqueries		11-10
5. Gigantes		11-14
6. Bucaneros		10-13
7. Toros		10-14
8. Panteras		9-15
9. Guaros		9-15
10. Gaiteros		4-19

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Big V: Round 5 Preview - by Eurobasket News
Ringwood vs. Eltham Sun 17/04 2:15pm @ Maroondah Indoor Sports Centre
Although both teams have Saturday night games, as we head into this Round 4 blockbuster both the Eltham Wildcats and Ringwood Hawks occupy top spot on the ladder undefeated at 4-0.
Heading into the season the Wildcats recruited superbly and it is no surprise with the likes of Hibbert, Sharp and Carr along with some outstanding Eltham juniors top spot is where everyone tipped them to be.
Ringwood on the other hand were always looking at improving on their successful 2010 campaign but few of the pundits would have tipped them to be undefeated after 4 games. Import Andrea Verdegan has been dangerous with the ball in her hand, Lisa Ewin likewise and a solid all-around team effort has seen the Hawks give Coach Mottin the start to the season he wanted.
The Hawks are too good a team not to give the Wildcats a scare but look for Eltham to pull away in the second half cruising to a 15-point win.
Diamond Valley vs. Sherbrooke Sat 16/04 6pm @ Diamond Valley Sports & Fitness
The Eagles and Suns clash in a crucial game Saturday night at the Diamond Valley Sports and Fitness Centre, with both teams going in with 1-3 records. Sherbrooke enjoyed their first win of 2K11 last weekend and led by Sally Laing beat Hume City by 7. Diamond Valley fell short in their quest to knock-off Waverley losing by 4 points and will be desperate to return to the winners list. Realistically both of these teams have an outside chance of finishing in the top 4 however despite it being early in the season this game is a must win for the two of them if they wish to remain in contention.

Bulleen vs. Ringwood Sat 16/04 7pm @ Templestowe Leisure Centre
The Boomers and Hawks do battle and the biggest question surrounding this game is whether Bulleens new star recruit Hannah Zavecz suits up. Bulleen have lost their past 3 games and there is no doubt that the inclusion of Zavecz would make a big difference to the Boomers. Ringwood go into this game undefeated and will be confident of winning their 5th straight game and maintain their perfect start to the season before their big clash with Eltham the following day.
Eltham vs. Hume City Sat 16/04 8pm @ Eltham High School
Its hard to see this game being anything other than a big win to the talented Wildcats line-up. A young Hume City team has struggled so far this season and are the only side now yet to register a win. Coach Vaughns knows he has some great juniors at his disposal but the Lady Broncos are missing a go to player that will help them get the job done. Look for the Wildcats to lead from start to finish.

Melbourne vs. Diamond Valley Sun 17/04 1pm @ North Melbourne Rec Centre
Down 1 with only seconds to go, Melbourne missed 3 shots to steal a win over Ringwood last weekend. Thats 2 losses in 3 games for a talented Tigers line-up and make no mistake this is one game they wont want to let get away. The Tigers had some pretty big ins to their team this year including former league MVP Tegan Fowler and one gets the feeling she is getting closer to a big game as every week passes. Her strength under the basket could be the difference between these two sides and look for Melbourne to come away comfortable winners.

Waverley vs. Bulleen Sun 17/04 1pm @ Waverley Basketball Stadium
New Head Coach Bianca White will be happy with how her team has started the season with the Falcons winning 3 in a row and sitting nicely in 3rd position. The return of Julie Brookhouse had added quality leadership to an already strong group and star player Laura Thomas (183-F-88) has continued her great form from last year averaging 16ppg. With the Boomers playing Ringwood the night before their fitness level will be key. If they go in against Waverley tired the Falcons will walk all over them.

Courtesy of: www.bigv.com.au

Cambage, Shock's new star, meets the press - by Eurobasket News
Elizabeth Cambage (6'8''-C-91) is a 6-foot-8 Australian teenager, but she did her best to fit in during an introductory press conference Tuesday at St. Francis Childrens Hospital.

The first words out of her mouth sounded downright Oklahoman: 'Hey y'all', she said.

The Tulsa Shock selected Cambage, 19, with the second overall pick in Mondays WNBA draft. She flew by private jet to Oklahoma to meet the press and begin a get-acquainted process with the city where she will work.

Appearing at the press conference were Cambage and team officials, including owner David Box, president Steve Swetoha and coach and general manager Nolan Richardson.

Watching the proceedings were Cambages mother, Julia, and her agents, Aaron Goodwin and Allison Tranquilli. Goodwin also is the agent of Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant, who used Twitter to congratulate Cambage and welcome her to Oklahoma.

Cambage was recently named the MVP of an Australian professional league. Richardson said that in order to build a program, you must have a centerpiece. And he views Cambage as the Shocks centerpiece.

Box called Cambage a star because of her basketball skills and her personality. Cambage flashed her bubbly personality at the press conference, but indicated she would rather earn stardom than have it bestowed upon her.

Courtesy of www.tulsaworld.com

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BELGIUM - Women

D1 Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Sara LEEMANS
  Sint Kateline
  (178-G/F-88)
  Avg: 20.3

1. Leemans, Sint K.	20.3
2. Tatham, Point C.	18.4
3. Meesseman, Ieper	18.0
4. Dennett, Sint K.	17.3
5. VanMalderen, Dexia N.	16.7
6. Decroos, BBC Boom	15.7
7. Gaither, Dexia N.	15.1
8. Wilkins, Point Chaud	15.1
9. Mayombo, Point C.	14.8
10. Blommaers, Houth.	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Emma MEESSEMAN
  Ieper
  (188-C-93)
  Avg: 11.1

1. Meesseman, Ieper	11.1
2. Dennett, Sint K.	10.3
3. Wilkins, Point Chaud	9.0
4. Gaither, Dexia N.	8.9
5. Tatham, Point C.	8.9
6. Kurtozi, R.Spirou.	8.6
7. Van Respaill., Wareg.	8.6
8. Ibekwe, Point C.	8.5
9. Malfait, Jeugd G.	7.2
10. Maes, Deerlijk	7.1

Assists Per Game

Sara LEEMANS
  Sint Kateline
  (178-G/F-88)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Leemans, Sint K.	3.2
2. Mayombo, Point C.	2.2
3. Van Dessel, Sint K.	2.2
4. Ballau, R.Spirou.	2.1
5. Blommaers, Houth.	1.8
6. Degels, Jeugd G.	1.8
7. Van Driel, BBC B.	1.8
8. Vanloo, Waregem	1.8
9. Deyaert, Waregem	1.8
10. Devliegher, Ieper	1.8

Steals Per Game

Emma MEESSEMAN
  Ieper
  (188-C-93)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Meesseman, Ieper	2.4
2. Gaither, Dexia N.	2.3
3. Mayombo, Point C.	2.2
4. Leemans, Sint K.	2.1
5. Van De Bruae., Deerl.	2.1
6. Ballau, R.Spirou.	2.0
7. Deyaert, Waregem	2.0
8. Van Driel, BBC B.	2.0
9. Van den Vond., BBC B.	2.0
10. Celus, Sint Kateline	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Emma MEESSEMAN
  Ieper
  (188-C-93)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Meesseman, Ieper	2.8
2. Boonen, BBC Boom	1.8
3. Dennett, Sint K.	1.7
4. Kurtozi, R.Spirou.	1.1
5. Lentacker, Jeugd G.	0.9
6. Van Respaill., Wareg.	0.8
7. Malfait, Jeugd G.	0.8
8. Gaither, Dexia N.	0.8
9. VanMalderen, Dexia N.	0.8
10. De Meyer, Willebroek	0.7

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BULGARIA - Women

NBL Finals: Lukoils beats Levski 73-64 in Game Two, takes 2-0 lead - by Eurobasket News

Finals

Game Two: Lukoil - Levski 73-64 (2-0)

Lukoil jumped to 2-0 in the NBL Finals and now needs just one more win for the title.
Levski trailed by 13 points at halftime and as many as 14 after three quarters before a 19-14 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 64-73 at the end of the game. Lukoil outrebounded Levski 40-24 including a 31-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American power forward Tamara Bowie (183-81, college: Ball St.) who scored 25 points and 7 rebounds. Ukrainian guard Olena Samburska (172-89, agency: LBM Management) chipped in 16 points and 6 rebounds. Four Lukoil players scored in double figures. The former international forward Natalia Topalova-Shopova (187-80) produced 22 points and forward Radoslava Bachvarova (183-87, college: VCU) added 14 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Game Three - April 16.

Top scorers:
Levski: N.Topalova-Shopova 22+4reb, R.Dimitrova 16+2reb+1ast, R.Bachvarova 14+6reb+3ast, P.Djambazka 9+4reb+5ast, D.Naydenova 3+4reb+3ast, D.Shumarova 0
Lukoil: T.Bowie 25+7reb, O.Samburska 16+6reb+2ast, N.Djuric 13+2reb+2ast, Z.Stanoeva 10+2reb+3ast, D.White 7+14reb, M.Zhelyazkova 2+4reb

Places 3-4

Game Two: Dunav - Montana 2003 72-74 (1-1) best-of-three

Dunav was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 24-15 third quarter run of Montana 2003. The former international forward Agnesa Doychinova (188-73) orchestrated the victory by scoring 21 points and 8 rebounds. The former international guard Ivelina Vrancheva (175-80) contributed with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. Five Montana 2003 players scored in double figures. The former international guard Zornitsa Kostova (176-82) replied with 20 points and 4 assists and power forward Hristina Minkova (184-72) added 14 points and 5 assists in the effort for Dunav.

Top scorers:
Dunav: Z.Kostova 20+4reb+4ast, A.Kancheva 16+4reb+3ast, H.Minkova 14+4reb+5ast, C.Allen 7+4reb+1ast, L.Byears 6+1reb, I.Terzieva 5+3reb+1ast
Montana 2003: A.Doychinova 21+8reb+2ast, I.Vrancheva 16+6reb+8ast, V.Todorova 13+3reb+2ast, J.Zhelyova 12+4reb+1ast, N.Simeonova 12+10reb+1ast, N.Asenova 0

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Juanita WARD
  Beroe 07
  (180-G-86)
  Avg: 24.4

1. Ward, Beroe 07	24.4
2. Bowie, Lukoil	18.2
3. Samburska, Lukoil	17.9
4. Doychinova, Montan.	16.7
5. Topalova-S., Levski	16.6
6. Allen, Dunav	16.6
7. Kordova, Dunav	15.7
8. Stankova, Levski	15.6
9. Dimitrova, Levski	14.8
10. Bachvarova, Levski	14.6

Rebounds Per Game

DeTrina WHITE
  Lukoil
  (180-F-80)
  Avg: 11.4

1. White, Lukoil	11.4
2. Ward, Beroe 07	11.1
3. Bowie, Lukoil	8.6
4. Doychinova, Montan.	8.5
5. Topalova-S., Levski	8.2
6. Byears, Dunav	8.0
7. Kaloferova, Beroe	6.8
8. Simeonova, Montana .	6.7
9. Minkova, Dunav	6.5
10. Allen, Dunav	6.4

Assists Per Game

Ivelina VRANCHEVA
  Montana 2003
  (175-G-80)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Vrancheva, Montana .	5.9
2. Naydenova, Levski	5.7
3. Peeva, Lukoil	4.6
4. Pasheva, Beroe 07	4.2
5. Kostova, Dunav	4.1
6. Stankova, Levski	3.6
7. Dzhambazka, Levski	3.3
8. Minkova, Dunav	3.1
9. Mihalkova, Montana .	2.8
10. Bachkovo, Beroe 07	2.8

Steals Per Game

Diana NAYDENOVA
  Levski
  (171-G-73)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Naydenova, Levski	2.4
2. Kostova, Dunav	2.4
3. Naydenova, Slavia	2.2
4. Allen, Dunav	2.2
5. Peeva, Lukoil	2.1
6. Bowie, Lukoil	2.1
7. Vrancheva, Montana .	2.1
8. Dimitrova, Levski	2.0
9. Stankova, Levski	2.0
10. Topalova-S., Levski	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Zlatina KALOFEROVA
  Beroe 07
  (192-C-86)
  Avg: 1

1. Kaloferova, Beroe	1.0
2. White, Lukoil	0.9
3. Bowie, Lukoil	0.8
4. Ward, Beroe 07	0.7
5. Topalova-S., Levski	0.7
6. Allen, Dunav	0.6
7. Mihalkova, Montana .	0.5
8. Doychinova, Montan.	0.4
9. Todorova, Montana .	0.4
10. Samburska, Lukoil	0.3

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COCABA CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women

El Salvador get closer to Centrobasket tournament - by Eurobasket News
El Salvador successfully accomplished their mission of reaching the next stage of 2011 Centrobasket Tournament. They claimed the top position in 2011 COCABA Championship qualifying round overcoming Honduras and Costa Rica and advanced into the next round, which would take place in Pachuca, Mexico. El Salvador will play together with Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras for two tickets to Centrobasket tournament.
El Salvador overcame Costa Rica 56:47 in the decisive encounter at the Jose Adolfo Pineda Arena. The teams stayed close in the opening term. El Salvador managed to post a narrow 16:14 lead after ten minutes. They however stretched the distance to 6 points at the interval 31:25. El Salvador kept their opponents at distance posting a 45:39 lead with one quarter remaining. Costa Rica stayed in charge and rolled to the victory at the end. Gladis Maravilla (86) stepped up with 13 points to lead the effort. Lorena Simon contributed 10 points, while Monica Calderon added 9 in the win.

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CROATIA - Women

Standings - Women

A1 Standings

Group A
1. Jolly		9-1
2. Gospic		9-1
3. Lupa Promot.		6-4
4. Studenec O.		4-6
5. Medvescak		1-8
6. Biska Pula		0-9
Group B
1. Croatia 2006		3-0
2. Pozega		2-1
3. Zadar		1-1
4. Split		1-2
5. Agram		0-3

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CYPRUS - Women

Semi Finals AEK beat and knocked down Achilleas 65-40 and qualified in the finals - by Chris Mammides
After a very good second half the team of Nikolina Kouzi thrashed the team of Emil Ionov with 25 points, 65-40 and will now face the team of AEL Limassol in the finals. The first part of the game was a derby between two more or less equall teams. In the second part of the game, though the two teams appeared in the court very different, the team of Ionov couldn't score at all, not even the free throws, so Kouzi's team simply took the initiatives and with the usual suspect in the scoring, Lloyd leading the way and with Zohnova, Athanasiou and Nikodimou assisting the American when needed, the Larnaka team created a big deficit from the beggining of the third quarter.

Achilleas Kaimakli was much lower in all the aspects than all its previous presenations and it was obvious that the power of the team outside of Kaimakli was not existing. Most of the players of Ionov had poor performance and only Theologou tried to 'Save' the basics for the team of Kaimakli but she was all alone.

On the other hand, AEK received points from players that usually do not 'offer' and these points were very welcome by the head Coach Nikolina Kouzi. For another game the Top performer and top scorer was Lloyd with her 20 points in this fifth and crucial game of the series.

The scorers for the two teams were as follows:

ΑΕΚ : Lloyd 20, Merkouri 2, Athanasiou 12, Zohnova 16, Nikodimou 11, Kancevic 2, Georgiou 2

Achilleas: S. Papadopoulou 9, Zotova 8, Ionova 8, Ch. Papadopoulou 2, Theologou 13

Semi Finals AEK thrashed Achilleas with 65-40 and qualified in the finals - by Chris Mammides
After a very good second half the team of Nikolina Kouzi thrashed the team of Emil Jonov with 25 points, 65-40 and will now face the team of AEL Limassol in the finals. The first part of the game was a derby between two more or less equall teams. In the second part of the game, though the two teams appeared in the court very different, the team of Ionov couldn't score at all, not even the free throws, so Kouzi's team simply took the initiatives and with the usual suspect in the scoring, D'lesha Lloyde (183-F-86, college: Clemson) leading the way and with Zohnova, Zoe Athanasiou (172-G-88) and Koulla Nikodemou (170-G-86) assisting the American when needed, the Larnaka team created a big deficit from the beggining of the third quarter.

Achilleas Kaimakli was much lower in all the aspects than all its previous presenations and it was obvious that the power of the team outside of Kaimakli was not existing. Most of the players of Ionov had poor performance and only Sophia Theologou (189-C-88) tried to 'Save' the basics for the team of Kaimakli but she was all alone.

On the other hand, AEK received points from players that usually do not 'offer' and these points were very welcome by the head Coach Nikolina Kouzi . For another game the Top performer and top scorer was D'lesha Lloyde with her 20 points in this fifth and crucial game of the series.

The scorers for the two teams were as follows:

AEK : D'lesha Lloyde 20, Merkouri 2, Zoe Athanasiou 12, Zohnova 16, Koulla Nikodemou 11, Kancevic 2, Georgiou 2

Achilleas: S. Papadopoulou 9, Tatiana Zotova (196-F-70) 8, Ionova 8, Ch. Papadopoulou 2, Sophia Theologou 13

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DENMARK - Women

SISU are new Dameligaen champions - by Eurobasket News
SISU - Horsholm 57:53

SISU are the new Dameligaen champions. They swept the championship series against Horsholm. The decisive third victory came tonight as SISU claimed a 57:53 success at home court. Lauren Aitch (185-C-87, agency: Merit Sports, college: Michigan St.) stepped up with another pivotal performance as she tallied 23 points, 16 boards and 4 assists for the winners.
The 79ers had their backs against the wall entering the game. They had nothing else to do but to start the game aggressively. It paid off in the first half. Horsholm managed to take a 29:27 halftime lead. But SISU stiffened their defense in the third stanza. They limited the visitors to just 9 points and pulled ahead for a 5-point advantage with one quarter to go. Horsholm tried hard to change things in the fourth period but came up short at the end. Kristine Dalgaard (188-F/C-79) accounted for 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Camilla Blands (180-G-85, college: Alabama) and Trine Duelund (182-F-84) finished with 6 points each in the win. Therese Deemand (176-G-83, college: Binghamton) answered with 19 points for the 79ers. Katrine Hounsgaard (166-G-84) and Anne Kristensen (173-G-87) delivered 8 points apiece in the loss.

SISU: Lauren Aitch 23+16 boards, Kristine Dalgaard 13, Camilla Blands 6, Trine Duelund 6
Horsholm: Therese Deemand 19, Katrine Hounsgaard 8, Anne Kristensen 8

Stats Leaders - Damenligaen

Points Per Game

Lauren BECKLEY
  Lemvig
  (181-F/C-)
  Avg: 21.6

1. Beckley, Lemvig	21.6
2. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj	16.6
3. Furgeson, Horsens	16.5
4. Holmes, Aabyhoj	15.7
5. Fuller, Falcon	15.6
6. Tryggedsson, Aabyh.	15.4
7. Smith, Horsens	14.7
8. Girdwood, Vaerlose	14.4
9. Hansen, Falcon	14.1
10. Jakobsen, Vaerlose	13.5

Rebounds Per Game

Jessica FULLER
  Falcon
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 12.8

1. Fuller, Falcon	12.8
2. Holmes, Aabyhoj	10.2
3. Beckley, Lemvig	9.8
4. Furgeson, Horsens	9.5
5. Kruuse, Amager	9.4
6. Smith, Horsens	8.9
7. Kielpinski, Lemvig	8.7
8. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj	7.5
9. Aitch, SISU	7.4
10. Girdwood, Vaerlose	7.2

Assists Per Game

Mie BURLIN
  Lemvig
  (178-G-)
  Avg: 4.2

1. Burlin, Lemvig	4.2
2. Lund, SISU	3.9
3. Krogh, Aabyhoj	3.7
4. Blands, SISU	3.4
5. Haven, Vaerlose	3.4
6. Jensen, Amager	3.4
7. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj	3.0
8. Jorgensen, SISU	3.0
9. Furgeson, Horsens	3.0
10. Laursen, Horsens	2.9

Steals Per Game

Emilie HESSELDAL
  Aabyhoj
  (185-F/C-90)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj	3.2
2. Blands, SISU	2.9
3. Furgeson, Horsens	2.5
4. Lund, SISU	2.3
5. Ryder, Horsholm	2.2
6. Jorgensen, SISU	2.1
7. Udovalieva, Lemvig	1.9
8. Deemand, Horsholm	1.8
9. Beckley, Lemvig	1.8
10. Jensen, Amager	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Jessica FULLER
  Falcon
  (193-C-87)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Fuller, Falcon	3.1
2. Kielpinski, Lemvig	1.6
3. Dokkedal, Vaerlose	0.9
4. Hesseldal, Aabyhoj	0.8
5. Kruuse, Amager	0.7
6. Girdwood, Vaerlose	0.6
7. Aitch, SISU	0.6
8. Holmes, Aabyhoj	0.5
9. Gilling, Horsholm	0.5
10. Laursen, Horsens	0.4

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EL SALVADOR - Women

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

FRANCE - Women

Standings - LFB

LFB Standings

1. Bourges		24-2
2. Challes		18-8
3. Tarbes		18-8
4. Lattes Montp.		18-8
5. Landes		17-9
6. Nantes		17-9
7. Arras		13-13
8. Mondeville		12-14
9. Union Hainaut		10-16
10. Villeneuve		10-16
11. Charleville		10-16
12. Aix-en-Provence		9-17
13. COB Calais		4-22
14. Toulouse		2-24

LFB Round 26: Bourges is the regular season champion - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in LFB just ended. Bourges is No.1 with impressive 24-2 record. Semifinals pairs are Bourges - Lattes Montpellier and Challes - Tarbes. First games are scheduled for April 21.

LFB Standings
1. Bourges 24-2
2. Challes 18-8
3. Tarbes 18-8
4. Lattes Montp. 18-8
-----------------------------
5. Landes 17-9
6. Nantes 17-9
7. Arras 13-13
8. Mondeville 12-14
9. Union Hainaut 10-16
10. Villeneuve 10-16
11. Charleville 10-16
12. Aix-en-Provence 9-17
13. COB Calais 4-22
14. Toulouse 2-24

COB Calais - Challes 55-83

13th ranked COB Calais (4-22) was outscored at home by second ranked Challes-les-Eaux (18-8) with the biggest margin this round 83-55. The game without a history. Challes-les-Eaux led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding COB Calais to just 6 points in second and third quarters. They outrebounded COB Calais 41-24 including a 33-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. American center Mistie Bass-Williams (191-83, college: Duke) notched 35 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds (on 14-of-16 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and American-Israeli center Jennifer Fleisher (195-84, college: Pennsylvania, agency: LBM Management) supported her with 9 points and 20 rebounds. Challes-les-Eaux's coach Aldo Corno felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even 12 points and 7 rebounds by Senegalese center Ndeye Ndiaye (191-79, college: S.Nazarene, agency: Josep and Nicolas) did not help to save the game for COB Calais. Guard Aurelie Cibert (168-85, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 5 points and 7 assists for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Challes: M.Bass-Williams 35+8reb+1ast, B.Thomas 22+1reb+1ast, J.Fleisher 9+20reb+1ast, R.Bar 5+3reb+2ast, A.Plagnard 4+1reb+7ast, C.Costaz 4+1reb+3ast
COB Calais: N.Ndiaye 12+7reb, S.Gruszczynski 9+1reb+1ast, M.Sinico 8+1reb+1ast, M.Arnaud 7+5reb, P.Papamichail 6+1reb, A.Cibert 5+4reb+7ast

Mondeville - Villeneuve 73-65

Rather expected game when 10th ranked Villeneuve D'Asco (10-16) was defeated on the road by eighth ranked Mondeville (12-14) 73-65. Villeneuve D'Asco was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 38-28 second half run of Mondeville. They also forced 21 Villeneuve D'Asco turnovers. The former international forward Aurelie Bonnan (187-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas) notched 9 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort and American guard Kristen Sharp (175-81, college: Cincinnati) supported her with 10 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Mondeville's coach Herve Coudray allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 17 points and 6 rebounds by Nigerian center Olayinka Sanni (188-86, college: W.Virginia, agency: Josep and Nicolas) did not help to save the game for Villeneuve D'Asco. American power forward Carla Thomas (191-85, college: Vanderbilt, agency: LBM Management) added 11 points and 8 rebounds for the guests.
Top scorers:
Mondeville: L.Williams 13+3ast, A.Brumermane 12+3reb+1ast, K.Sharp 10+6reb+5ast, Y.Sene 9+2reb+1ast, A.Bonnan 9+11reb+3ast, V.Berezhynska 8+5reb+1ast
Villeneuve: O.Sanni 17+6reb+2ast, L.Datchy 15+4reb+1ast, C.Thomas 11+8reb+2ast, A.Knezevic 10+2reb+1ast, I.Tanqueray 6+2reb+5ast, M.Carpreaux 4+2reb+4ast

Nantes - Aix-en-Provence 93-71

Very predictable result when fifth ranked Nantes Reze (17-9) smashed at home 12th ranked Aix-en-Provence (9-17) 93-71. Nantes Reze have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 17-9 record, which they share with Landes. Aix-en-Provence lost sixth consecutive game.

Bourges - Lattes Montp. 69-70

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of top-ranked Bourges (24-2) at the home court on Wednesday night. Hosts were edged by third ranked Lattes Montpellier (18-8) 70-69. It ended at the same time the 12-game winning streak of Bourges. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. The guests trailed by 15 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 1 point. Lattes Montpellier forced 20 Bourges turnovers. Montenegrin power forward Iva Perovanovic (190-83) scored 23 points and 6 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international forward Fatimatou Sacko (183-85) chipped in 13 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. International forward Endene Miyem (188-88) responded with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 10 rebounds and guard Paoline Salagnac (176-84, agency: Josep and Nicolas) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Lattes Montp.: I.Perovanovic 23+6reb+2ast, F.Sacko 13+9reb+1ast, G.Skrela 8+7reb+2ast, A.Poto 7+5reb+4ast, I.Ajanovic 7+4reb, A.Lelas 6+1reb+1ast
Bourges: E.Miyem 14+10reb+3ast, A.Lardy 14+2reb+3ast, P.Salagnac 14+5reb+2ast, C.Joens 11+6reb, J.Digbeu 8+2reb+2ast, S.Kaltsidou 4+7reb+4ast

Tarbes - Union Hainaut 80-52

Not a big story in a game when 9th ranked Union Hainaut (10-16) was rolled over on the road by fourth ranked Tarbes (18-8) 80-52. Union Hainaut was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Tarbes forced 20 Union Hainaut turnovers. American power forward Brooke Smith (191-84, college: Stanford, agency: LBM Management) notched 13 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the effort and guard Isis Arrondo (166-89) supported her with 14 points and 5 assists. Five Tarbes players scored in double figures. Even 17 points and 9 rebounds by American power forward Lindsay Wisdom-Hylton (188-86, college: Purdue, agency: LBM Management) did not help to save the game for Union Hainaut. Guard Emilie Silbande (178-81) added 18 points for the guests.
Top scorers:
Tarbes: N.El Gargati 16+7reb, P.Lo 15+4reb+2ast, I.Arrondo 14+4reb+5ast, R.Hodges 14+1reb+5ast, B.Smith 13+9reb+5ast, I.Matic 6+7reb+1ast
Union Hainaut: E.Silbande 18+4reb+3ast, L.Wisdom-Hylton 17+9reb+3ast, C.Beikes 7+6reb+4ast, A.Bales 4+7reb+1ast, L.Kamba 2+6reb, A.Jackson 2+5reb+3ast

Landes - Charleville 55-40

Everything went according to plan in Mont de Marsan where sixth ranked Basket Landes (17-9) beat 11th ranked Charleville-Mezieres (10-16) 55-40. The game was mostly controlled by Basket Landes. Charleville-Mezieres was better in third quarter 11-9. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Charleville-Mezieres to just 4 points in second quarter. American center Jennifer Humphrey (191-84, college: Kentucky, agency: Josep and Nicolas) notched a double-double by scoring 12 points and 15 rebounds to lead the effort and the other American import guard Tamera Young (188-86, college: JMU) supported her with 11 points and 10 rebounds. Even a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds by Mali center Djene Diawara (192-85) did not help to save the game for Charleville-Mezieres. American forward Kristen Mann (188-83, college: UCSB, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 13 points for the guests.
Top scorers:
Landes: J.Humphrey 12+15reb, T.Young 11+10reb, A.Le Gluher 11+4reb+2ast, K.Manic 9+2reb+6ast, M.Laborde 7+4reb+2ast, J.Barennes 3+6reb+5ast
Charleville: K.Mann 13+4reb+1ast, D.Diawara 10+10reb, A.Bouderra 6+2reb+1ast, S.Ouerghi 6+2reb+1ast, A.Kusion 4+2reb, E.Dimitrova 1+6reb+1ast

Arras - Toulouse 68-62

There was no surprise when 14th ranked Toulouse (2-24) was defeated on the road by seventh ranked Arras (13-13) 68-62. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Toulouse was ahead by 4 points at the halftime before a 38-28 second half run of Arras. They also forced 23 Toulouse turnovers. DR Congolese power forward Pauline Akonga Nsimbo (187-82, agency: LBM Management) notched 24 points to lead the effort and American guard Leilani Mitchell (165-85, college: Utah, agency: LBM Management) supported her with 11 points and 4 assists. Even 15 points and 7 rebounds by American forward Shanavia Dowdell (188-87, college: Louisiana Tech, agency: LBM Management) did not help to save the game for Toulouse. Her fellow American import guard Chandrea Jones (175-87, college: Syracuse, agency: LBM Management) added 13 points and 5 rebounds for the guests.
Top scorers:
Arras: P.Akonga Nsimbo 24+2reb+1ast, L.Mitchell 11+3reb+4ast, J.Gomis 10+3ast, O.Malashenko 7+5reb, M.Amant 6+7reb+2ast, A.Putnina 5+3reb
Toulouse: S.Dowdell 15+7reb+2ast, E.Maurice 14+3reb+1ast, C.Jones 13+5reb+2ast, C.Aubert 10+2reb+4ast, S.Milovanovic 8+5reb+2ast, L.De Angelis 2

Round 21

Arras - Mondeville 56-48

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both seventh ranked Arras and 8th ranked Mondeville had identical 12-13 record. This time Arras used a home court advantage and won against the opponent from Mondeville 56-48. The hosts were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Arras dominated on the defensive end, holding Mondeville to just 3 points in fourth quarter. Arras had a 14-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. DR Congolese power forward Pauline Akonga Nsimbo (187-82, agency: LBM Management) notched a double-double by scoring 17 points and 11 rebounds to lead the effort and international guard Johanne Gomis (177-85) supported her with 7 points and 6 rebounds. Even a double-double of 11 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists by the former international forward Aurelie Bonnan (187-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas) did not help to save the game for Mondeville. American guard Kristen Sharp (175-81, college: Cincinnati) added 14 points for the guests. Mondeville's coach Herve Coudray rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Arras: P.Akonga Nsimbo 17+11reb, A.Putnina 9+3reb+1ast, J.Gomis 7+6reb+2ast, O.Malashenko 7+3reb, K.Bade 6+5reb+2ast, S.Michel 5+6reb+3ast
Mondeville: K.Sharp 14+3reb+1ast, A.Bonnan 11+15reb+5ast, V.Berezhynska 10+3reb+1ast, L.Williams 7+6reb, A.Brumermane 6+6reb+1ast, Y.Sene 0+3reb+1ast

LFB Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mistie BASS-WILLIAMS
  Challes
  (191-C-83)
  Avg: 19.4

1. Bass-W., Challes	19.4
2. Akonga Nsimb., Arr.	16.4
3. Grima, Aix-en-P.	15.7
4. Humphrey, Landes	15.3
5. Dubljevic, Tarbes	15.0
6. Hurst, Aix-en-P.	14.7
7. Sanni, Villeneuve	14.7
8. Mann, Charleville	14.3
9. Sharp, Mondeville	14.3
10. Covington, Union H.	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Aurelie BONNAN
  Mondeville
  (187-F-83)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Bonnan, Mondeville	10.8
2. Humphrey, Landes	10.0
3. Diawara, Charleville	9.7
4. Bass-W., Challes	9.5
5. Bales, Union Hainaut	8.8
6. Sanni, Villeneuve	8.6
7. Kamba, Union H.	8.2
8. Matic, Tarbes	7.0
9. Grima, Aix-en-P.	6.9
10. Sacko, Lattes M.	6.8

Assists Per Game

Caroline AUBERT
  Nantes
  (168-G-80)
  Avg: 4.9

1. Aubert, Nantes	4.9
2. Hurst, Aix-en-P.	4.9
3. Manic, Landes	4.2
4. Lepron, Tarbes	4.1
5. Mitchell, Arras	4.0
6. Tanqueray, Villeneuve	3.8
7. Bar, Challes	3.7
8. Aubert, Toulouse	3.5
9. Carpreaux, Villeneuve	3.5
10. Dubljevic, Tarbes	3.4

Steals Per Game

Johanne GOMIS
  Arras
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Gomis, Arras	2.6
2. Bar, Challes	2.4
3. Milovanovic, Toulouse	2.1
4. Poto, Lattes M.	2.1
5. Skrela, Lattes M.	2.1
6. Lepron, Tarbes	1.9
7. Young, Landes	1.9
8. Bouderra, Charleville	1.9
9. Bonnan, Mondeville	1.8
10. Kamba, Union H.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Alison BALES
  Union Hainaut
  (201-C-85)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Bales, Union Hainaut	2.1
2. Ndongue, Bourges	1.6
3. Smith, Tarbes	0.7
4. Sy-Diop, Nantes	0.7
5. Bonnan, Mondeville	0.7
6. Bertal, Villeneuve	0.7
7. Jones, Toulouse	0.7
8. Dowdell, Toulouse	0.7
9. Bass-W., Challes	0.6
10. Humphrey, Landes	0.6

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HUNGARY - Women

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Danielle PAGE
  ZTE
  (188-F-86)
  Avg: 18

1. Page, ZTE	18.0
2. Carson, SEAT L.	17.4
3. Zherzherunov., Sze.	17.2
4. Hollingswort., SEAT L.	15.6
5. Tamane, MKB Eurol.	15.1
6. Holt, MKB Eurol.	14.3
7. Griffin, Pecs 2010	14.2
8. Nemeth, Szeged	13.6
9. Quigley, Pecs 2010	13.6
10. Cvetanovic, Szolnok	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Olena ZHERZHERUNOVA
  Szeged
  (191-F-78)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Zherzherunov., Sze.	10.4
2. Hollingswort., SEAT L.	10.2
3. Page, ZTE	9.2
4. Tamane, MKB Eurol.	7.9
5. Pal, Vasas-Csata	7.4
6. Olajuwon, SEAT L.	7.3
7. Cvetanovic, Szolnok	6.6
8. Krnjic, Pecs 2010	6.6
9. Kublina, SEAT L.	6.2
10. Balla, Vasas-Csata	6.1

Assists Per Game

Katarina RISTIC
  Szolnok
  (174-G-84)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Ristic, Szolnok	5.3
2. Medgyessy, Atome.	5.0
3. Ivanyi, Pecs 2010	4.9
4. Bukovszki, ZTE	4.6
5. Nemeth, Szeged	4.3
6. Darida, Nanette FTC	4.3
7. Honti, MKB Eurol.	3.9
8. Laczi, Szeged	3.8
9. Boskovic, Szolnok	3.7
10. Eordogh, Vasas-Cs.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Gina SZEPSI
  Bajai NKK
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 3.6

1. Szepsi, Bajai NKK	3.6
2. Bukovszki, ZTE	3.4
3. Laczi, Szeged	3.0
4. Griffin, Pecs 2010	2.9
5. Nemeth, Szeged	2.8
6. Darida, Nanette FTC	2.8
7. Zherzherunov., Sze.	2.7
8. Medgyessy, Atome.	2.7
9. Demeter, Atomeromu	2.6
10. Szabo, Bajai NKK	2.5

Blocks Per Game

Danielle PAGE
  ZTE
  (188-F-86)
  Avg: 2

1. Page, ZTE	2.0
2. Zherzherunov., Sze.	1.7
3. Ievtushenko, Atome.	1.3
4. Cvetanovic, Szolnok	1.3
5. Tamane, MKB Eurol.	1.1
6. Kublina, SEAT L.	1.0
7. Griffin, Pecs 2010	0.8
8. Hollingswort., SEAT L.	0.8
9. Bagi, BEAC	0.8
10. Pap, Cegledi EKK	0.8

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LATVIA - Women

LSBL Round 2 of Semi-Finals. RTU-Merks and TTT Riga in title series - by Eurobasket News
TTT Juniores - TTT Riga 44-99

TTT Riga swept their semifinal series without surprises. They overcame TTT Juniors in the second game of the series. The game was mostly controlled by TTT Riga. TTT Juniores managed to win third quarter 17-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. TTT Riga dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to TTT Juniores' 26 and made 22-of-27 free shots (81.5 percent) during the game. TTT Riga forced 27 TTT Juniores turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by TTT Juniores' players. The best player for the winners was international forward Dita Krumberga (183-84, college: Mt.St.Marys) who scored 22 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals. Forward Karline Nimane (188-90) chipped in 14 points and 6 rebounds. Five TTT Riga players scored in double figures. Guard Liene Neimane (172-88) produced 9 points and center Guna Lagzdina (182-93) added 9 points respectively for the hosts. TTT Juniores' coach Ainars Cukste gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
TTT Riga: D.Krumberga 22+7reb+5ast, Z.Jakobsone 16+2reb+4ast, L.Surkusa 14+6reb, K.Nimane 14+6reb+3ast, A.Eibele 10+3reb+5ast, K.Bridina 10+1reb+1ast
TTT Juniores: L.Neimane 9+4reb+2ast, G.Lagzdina 9+3reb+2ast, L.Vilde 6+4reb+1ast, L.Sarja 6+1reb+1ast, A.Ozolina 6+1reb+2ast, D.Kuzmane 5+4reb

RTU-Merks - LU 63-54

RTU-Merks sealed the birth in the LSBL Final with home win over LU. RTU-Merks outrebounded Latvijas Universitate 46-34 including a 34-22 advantage in defensive rebounds. Latvijas Universitate was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Dita Rozenberga (181-92) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. Forward Anete Kirsteine (178-92) contributed with 20 points for the winners. Swingman Ieva Krastina (176-90, agency: LBM Management) replied with 17 points and 6 rebounds and guard Linda Pagrode (168-92) added 13 points in the effort for Latvijas Universitate. Latvijas Universitate's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
RTU-Merks: A.Kirsteine 20+2reb+2ast, D.Rozenberga 17+12reb, I.Vitola 8+8reb+1ast, D.Poksane 6+7reb+2ast, D.Lazdeniece 6+4reb, I.Malkevica 4+4reb+2ast
LU: I.Krastina 17+6reb+1ast, L.Pagrode 13+4reb+1ast, A.Vorma 10+4reb, Z.Lapsina 3+7reb+3ast, K.Pumpure 3+2reb+1ast, R.Putnina 2

Stats Leaders - Women

Points Per Game

Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 21.4

1. Krastina, LU	21.4
2. Lisnere, Cesis	20.8
3. Krumberga, TTT R.	20.3
4. Jakobsone, TTT Riga	16.3
5. Egle, Daugavpils	16.1
6. Teilane, RTU-Merks	15.4
7. Surkusa, TTT J.	15.3
8. Butler, TTT Riga	14.5
9. Eibele, TTT Riga	14.2
10. Nimane, TTT Riga	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Liga SURKUSA
  TTT Riga
  (192-C-91)
  Avg: 12

1. Surkusa, TTT J.	12.0
2. Teilane, RTU-Merks	11.3
3. Lisnere, Cesis	11.1
4. Lagzdina, TTT J.	10.8
5. Butler, TTT Riga	9.5
6. Geistarde-Z., Cesis	9.2
7. Pavlovska, RTU-M.	8.5
8. Zdanovska, Liepajas	8.5
9. Nimane, TTT Riga	8.5
10. Veidere, TTT K.	8.2

Assists Per Game

Anda EIBELE
  TTT Riga
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Eibele, TTT Riga	6.4
2. Jevsejeva, Dauga.	4.4
3. Krastina, LU	3.9
4. Karklina, TTT Riga	3.8
5. Neimane, TTT J.	3.1
6. Butler, TTT Riga	3.0
7. Krumberga, TTT R.	2.7
8. Kazakevica, Dauga.	2.7
9. Sarja, TTT Juniores	2.5
10. Pavlovska, TTT Riga	2.5

Steals Per Game

Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Krastina, LU	4.3
2. Karklina, TTT Riga	3.4
3. Butler, TTT Riga	2.9
4. Krumberga, TTT R.	2.9
5. Eibele, TTT Riga	2.7
6. Pavlovska, TTT Riga	2.5
7. Kazakevica, Dauga.	2.4
8. Bridina, TTT K.	2.4
9. Nimane, TTT Riga	2.3
10. Zeltina, Cesis	2.2