EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/20/2011

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Men News

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


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Michael LEE
  Radnicki
  (207-F-86)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Lee, Radnicki19.6 
 2. Zoric, KK.19.4 
 3. Macvan, Hemofarm19.2 
 4. Marsh, Crvena Z.19.2 
 5. Bogdanovic, Cibona18.9 
 6. Edwards, Cedevita17.5 
 7. Draper, Cedevita16.9 
 8. Car, Zadar16.3 
 9. Chase, Igokea16.2 
 10. Dragicevic, Buduc.16.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Zoric, KK.8.2 
 2. Harvey, Igokea7.1 
 3. Dragicevic, Buduc.7.0 
 4. Macvan, Hemofarm6.8 
 5. Kasun, KK.6.4 
 6. Necas, CEZ Nymburk6.4 
 7. Gist, Partizan6.2 
 8. Lee, Radnicki5.9 
 9. Nikolic, Crvena Z.5.8 
 10. Savovic, Hemofarm5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Miljan PAVKOVIC
  Hemofarm
  (178-G-81)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Pavkovic, Hemofarm5.2 
 2. Draper, Cedevita5.1 
 3. Markovic, Radnicki4.9 
 4. Morovic, Siroki TT4.3 
 5. Chase, Igokea4.0 
 6. Ilievski, Union O.3.9 
 7. Renfroe, KK.3.8 
 8. Car, Zadar3.6 
 9. Bazdaric, Cedevita3.5 
 10. Nissim, CEZ N.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Dontaye DRAPER
  Cedevita
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Draper, Cedevita2.2 
 2. Stemberger, Siroki T.2.1 
 3. Lee, Radnicki2.0 
 4. Car, Zadar2.0 
 5. Pumprla, CEZ N.1.9 
 6. Cakarevic, Radnicki1.8 
 7. Renfroe, KK.1.8 
 8. Dragic, Krka1.7 
 9. Ozbolt, Union O.1.6 
 10. Simonovic, Buduc.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Zoric, KK.1.3 
 2. Nikolic, Crvena Z.1.0 
 3. Radosevic, Cibona0.9 
 4. Shermadini, Union O.0.9 
 5. Kasun, KK.0.9 
 6. Dragicevic, Buduc.0.9 
 7. Gist, Partizan0.7 
 8. Edwards, Cedevita0.7 
 9. Macvan, Hemofarm0.7 
 10. Vesely, Partizan0.7 


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


Interclube beat Petro Luanda in BAI Basket - by Eurobasket News
Luanda - Interclube defeated on Friday Petro de Luanda by 77-76 in Luandas main Cidadela pavilion in group As first round of the national senior males basketball championship (BAI Basket).


In the first half, Interclube were already winning by 43-41.


The player of Interclube Lus Costa was the best scorer of the match with 18 points.


The match was officiated by the referees David Manuel, Clesio Francisco and Iracelmo Pinto.


Nuno Teixeira was the commissioner of the match.


With this result, Interclube qualified for the final four phase of the competition.
Courtesy of: portalangop.co.ao








Interclube's coach highlights players' commitment - by Eurobasket News
Luanda - The coach of the senior males Interclube basketball team, Jos Carlos Guimaro, expressed on Friday his satisfaction at the performance of the players in the group stage of the national championship (BAI Basket).


The coach said so to the press on Friday at the end of the match which his team beat Petro de Luanda by 77-76.


The coach congratulated his players and he thinks that these athletes are doing well in this sport season.


Jos Carlos Guimaro also thanked the management board of the club for giving attention to the players and coaches.
Courtesy of: portalangop.co.ao




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


TNA: Ciclista is the second semifinalist - by Eurobasket News
Fourth games of the TNA Quarterfinals were played yesterday. Ciclista managed to beat Firmat SF on the road 80-83 and to win the series with almost perfect 3-1. The series Asociacion Italiana - San Martin C and Obera TC - Alvear are tied at 2-2. They will meet in decisive Game Five on Wednesday. Three days ago, Quilmes MP swept Bragado with perfect 3-0. Quilmes beat them twice on the road and 86-72 at home in Game Three. The complete Quarterfinals results are below.

First games
Apr. 9: Ciclista 79-73 Firmat SF
Apr. 9: Bragado 71-92 Quilmes MP
Apr. 9: Alvear 69-56 Obera TC
Apr. 9: San Mart.C. 89-92 A.Italiana

Second games
Apr. 11: San Mart.C. 90-67 A.Italiana
Apr. 11: Alvear 72-69 Obera TC
Apr. 11: Bragado 75-85 Quilmes MP
Apr. 11: Ciclista 91-72 Firmat SF

Third games
Apr. 16: A.Italiana 99-91 San Mart.C.
Apr. 16: Obera TC 64-62 Alvear
Apr. 16: Quilmes MP 86-72 Bragado
Apr. 16: Firmat SF 84-82 Ciclista

Fourth games
Apr. 18: A.Italiana 73-76 San Mart.C.
Apr. 18: Obera TC 65-58 Alvear
Apr. 18: Firmat SF 80-83 Ciclista

Fifth games
Apr. 20: Alvear - Obera TC
Apr. 20 : San Mart.C. - A.Italiana

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


SEABL: Rangers rally falls short as Supercats snarl - by Eurobasket News
Dandennog Rangers suffered a close loss to Geelong Supercats in their SEABL round 3 clash at Dandenong Stadium last Saturday night.
The Rangers went down 94-89.

Supercats big men Ismail Muhammad (198-F-83, college: Georgia Tech) (29 points, 13 rebounds, six assists) and John Pichon (196-F-86, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: McNeese St.) (25 points, 13 rebounds) were the stars for the visitors.

The Rangers fought back from a dismal third quarter, which they lost 24-9, to get into the match in the final minutes before the Supercats regained momentum.

Rangers import Luke Fitzgerald was at his effective best with 27 points on 12-16 shooting along with 11 rebounds while Dusty Jura added 23 points and 14 rebounds. Venky Jois, Jonathon Shepherd (191-G-81, college: Nova SE) and Andrew Harms were also in double figures for the Rangers.

The Lady Rangers easily accounted for Geelong's new women's team 100-64 at Dandenong Stadium last Saturday night.

Rangers coach Larissa Anderson spread the minutes out among her 12 players against the Supercats, who are in their first SEABL season. Catherine Guest led the way for the Rangers with 14 points while Steph Cumming and Amelia Todhunter each scored 13.

The SEABL will resume after the Easter-Anzac Day weekend with the Rangers men visiting Bendigo on April 30, then hosting Brisbane at Dandenong Stadium at 2pm on May 1. The Lady Rangers will host Sandringham at Dandenong at noon on May 1.

Courtesy: Greater Dandenong Weekly


Homicide at Spartans - by Eurobasket News
Basketball in Brisbane took a major step forward today with the signing of one of the National Basketball Leagues best players in Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St.) to the Brisbane Spartans.

To those not familiar with the basketball scene in Brisbane the Spartans are based at the Clem Jones Youth centre at Carina and compete in the South East Australian Basketball League, playing against some of Australias biggest clubs.

Since the demise of the Bullets they have been flying the flag for the Brisbane basketball community, throughout Australia, in both the mens and womens competitions, on one of the smallest budgets within the league.

It has been hard but we are proud of what we have done in making a pathway for our juniors, both male and female, to be recognised and recruited to Australian junior teams and the National Basketball Leagues offered Spartans General Manager, Allan Ladewig.

We have had great support from the Carina Leagues Club and Arrow Caravan & Towbars in getting the teams on the floor and given the fact that since we have joined the competition we are one of the most successful clubs is testament to what our members and supporters are about.

Williams joins Cortez Groves, another former NBL star, along with former Boomer squad member Greg Vanderjagt and SEABL Alllstar Ash Cannan, under the direction of Queensland Male Coach Year, Leonard King, and no less then 26 locals within the Spartan programs.

A standout performer with the Townsville Crocs in 2010 Williams has just finished a spectacular season with the Melbourne Tigers where he assisted in turning round the season after joining the team late.

The Spartans travel away this week-end to Mt Gambier before playing in Melbourne and will be without Williams until the after Easter due to immigration requirements.

Brisbane fans will have to wait until May 7th before they get to see Williams play. The Brisbane Spartans will be playing the Knox Raiders in both men and women in what is fast becoming a huge inter-state rivalry.
Courtesy of: http://www.sdspartans.basketball.net.au/

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


*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


With Anthony Slack out the Swans sign Matthew Mullery - by Stefan Prager
Defending Champions Allianz Swans Gmunden reacted on the season ending injury of forward Anthony Slack (202-F/C-84, college: Illinois St.) and signed Matthew Mullery (203-F-87, agency: Stanley International, college: Brown) for the remainder of the season. The Swans will face last seasons finals opponent Furstenfeld Panthers in the upcoming semifinals which will tip off on Sunday. Slack was one of the most spectecular players this season and was a big addition for the Swans last fall. A few weeks ago he was voted an All Star Starter and was supposed to star in the Slam Dunk Contest. With Slack the Swans won the Supercup as well as the Austrian cup in february where Slack had two of his biggest games this season.

Mullery is coming off Landstede Zwolle from the Netherlands where his season came to end because Zwolle couldn't manage to reach the playoffs. In 37 appearances Mullery put up 13.4ppg along with 6.7rpg while shooting 54% from the field. Mullery played a full collegiate career at Brown University. He was selected to the All Ivy League First Team in 2009.

*****************************************************
  BAHAMAS   


NPBA title to be decided in Game 7 of title series - by Eurobasket News
New Providence Basketball Association title will be decided in the seventh game of the championship series tonight. The defending champions Commonwealth Bank Giants will take on Real Deal Shockers for the trophy. The Shockers were close to coming up with the biggest upset of the last years when they led 3-2 in the series. But Commonwealth Bank Giants celebrated a 122:101 victory in the sixth game and forced the decider. The Giants led throughout the game. They recorded a 51:46 lead at halftime and maintained the advantage throughout the second half. Michael Bain produced 31 points to pace the effort. Mark Hanna (F) contributed 30 points and 8 rebounds, while Jeremy Hutchinson (C-80) had 22 points in the victory. Lasario Burrows replied with 30 points and 13 rebounds for Real Deal Shockers. Barrington Carter notched 18 points in the loss.


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


Christopher Young claims Belgian D1 weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
Experienced American-Lithuanian Christopher Young (206-F/C-79, agency: Court Side) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Generali Okapi Aalstar and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 30.
The 31-year old power forward had a double-double of 21 points and ten rebounds, while his team was edged out by Oostende (#4, 16-11) 76-73. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Aalstar maintains the 2nd position in Belgian D1. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Aalstar will need to avoid more loses keep or improve their 18-9 record. Young turned to be Aalstar's top player in his first season with the team. University of Michigan graduate has very impressive stats this year. Young leads league in rebounds with 8.0rpg. Young is in league's top in and averages solid 77.2% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 30-year old American guard Marcus Hatten (186-G-80) of M.Hainaut. Hatten impressed basketball fans with 23 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists. Of course M.Hainaut cruised to a 80-72 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Antwerp (#5, 14-11). M.Hainaut's 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 16-9 record is not bad at all. Hatten is a newcomer at M.Hainaut and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was American Rashaun Freeman (206-C/F-84) of VOO Verviers-Pepinster (#7). Freeman scored 23 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Despite Freeman's great performance VOO Verviers-Pepinster lost 70-81 to Liege (9-17). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of VOO Verviers-Pepinster not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 17 games, recording just nine victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Freeman could try to bring VOO Verviers-Pepinster's a little bit higher in the standings. Freeman has individually a great season in Belgium. After 26 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.1ppg (6th best) and rebounds with 7.7rpg (3rd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Justin Hamilton (191-G-80) of Charleroi - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Anthony Hilliard (193-G/F-86) of Aalstar - 16 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Darnell Wilson (198-F-85) of Antwerp - 18 points and 2 rebounds
7. Timothy Black (178-G-81) of Antwerp - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Taylor Griffin (201-F-86) of Liege - 17 points and 4 rebounds
9. Will Thomas (200-F-86) of Oostende - 15 points and 7 rebounds
10. Guy Muya (190-G-83) of Liege - 13 points, 7 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)

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


Halifax Rainmen exit Premier Basketball League - by Eurobasket News
On Monday night, Halifax Rainmen joined the Saint John Mill Rats in exiting the Premier Basketball League (PBL), effective immediately.

The decision to withdraw from the league was made upon the Rochester RazorSharks being crowned as PBL champions over the Lawton Fort-Sill Cavalry. The Rochester RazorSharks are owned by Dr. Severko Hrywnak, who is also the owner of the PBL.

After watching the final playoff series and analyzing the statistics, I have decided to withdraw the Halifax Rainmen from the Premier Basketball League, said Halifax Rainmen President & CEO, Andre Levingston. 'I am appalled by the officiating that took place during the playoffs, and am ashamed of the PBL's operations this season. I want nothing but the best for our city, our fans, our sponsors, and our players, and I can say with confidence that the best is no longer found in the PBL.'

Mr. Levingston says that he does not and will not recognize the Rochester RazorSharks as this season's champions, and that the Lawton Fort-Sill Cavalry are most deserving of the title.

Over the next few weeks, Mr. Levingston will continue to examine his 2011-12 league options, but is adamant that there will be professional basketball in the city of Halifax next season.

'We are very optimistic and excited about the options we are currently weighing', he said. 'Our organization will always remain committed to providing Halifax with the most professional sporting and entertainment experience minor league basketball has to offer.'

Courtesy of www.rainmenbasketball.ca

*****************************************************
  CROATIA   


Best players of Round 6 (Group A and B) - by Eurobasket News
Marijan Cakarun (90) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for KK Borik Puntamika Zadar, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 6 (Second Stage).
The 20-year old player was the main contributor (26 points, eight rebounds and two assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Zabok (#8, 0-5), Second Stage botton-ranked team 90-79. Borik is placed at 6th position in Croatian A1. Borik is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. But it was their 4th lost game this season out of 6 games. It's Cakarun's second year at Borik and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Marijan Cakarun averages this season 8.2ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was young Dario Saric (205-F/C-94) of KK Dubrava Zagreb. Saric had a very good evening with a double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Dubrava cruised to a 102-90 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Kvarner 2010 (#-7, 4-2). This victory allowed Dubrava to move up to -5th position in Group B. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 3-2 record is not bad and everything may still change. Saric is a newcomer at Dubrava, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 17.5ppg (#4). His other stats are also decent: 9.4rpg and 3.2apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was guard Rudolf Jugo (183-G-84) of Kvarner 2010 (#-7). Jugo scored 25 points and passed seven assists. Despite Jugo's great performance Kvarner 2010 lost 90-102 to #-5 ranked Dubrava. But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing Kvarner 2010 needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams in Group B. Their record is 4 victories and 2 lost games. Jugo has a great season in Croatia. After 23 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 3.8apg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) of Cibona - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Antonio Ostric (200-G/F-89) of Dubrovnik - 16 points and 5 rebounds
6. Matteo Juricic (191-G-91) of Dubrava - 23 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Jure Skific (202-F/C-88) of Borik - 28 points
8. Damjan Rudez (206-F-86) of Cedevita - 26 points and 3 rebounds
9. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) of KK Zagreb CO - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Ivan Krolo (217-C-83) of Darda - 19 points, 10 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)

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


Intercollege Etha Engomis is the Champion after beating AEL Limassol 82-73! - by Chris Mammides
The team of InterCollege Etha Engomis is officially the new champion for the season 2010-2011! After an amazing game the team of Coach Antonis Konstantinides beat the team of coaches Christos Spirou and Markos Asonitis (198-F-79) with 82-73 and with a 3-2 in the series won the champion.
The game now with detailed analysis:
Both teams begun the game with obvious tactics but at the same time very bad shooting percentages so the three pointer from Dejan Delic (199-G-83, agency: Interperformances) which was the first basket of the game followed by Anthony King (206-F/C-85, college: Miami, FL)'s free throws and a three pointer from the Lithuanian Valdas Dabkus (204-F-84) and the score remained 6-3 for as many as six minutes before Christos Spirou gets his first time out and balance the game with Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85) and Dejan Delic. From that minute and on the game took the right path as both teams start scoring with the duet Stevan Milosevic and Dejan Delic being unstoppable and giving to his team a six points difference by the end of the first quarter. Dejan Delic finished the first period with 9 points and Stevan Milosevic with 8 points, the score of the first period was 16-22 with 17 points coming from the two Serbs for the Limassol team.

The second period was not very good for coaches Christos Spirou and Markos Asonitis as they saw one of their top performers, Stevan Milosevic to be called his third personal foul only one and a half minutes after the beginning of the second period. Dejan Delic was in a great night so he kept his mode by adding another basket he brought the score to 22-26 before two technical fouls (one for each team) together with two three pointers from the home team (Reggie Redding (196-G-88, college: Villanova) and Anastasiadis) turn the score to 28-31, before Avis Wyatt (211-F/C-84, college: Virginia St.) scores a three pointer and reshapes the score to 28-34. A technical foul to Palalas in that point dismantle a bit the team of AEL and ETHA with Anthony King as a leading figure ended the half time with a small deficit for the home team with 39-38. Stevan Milosevic's empty spot in the rebounding area was the weak point for the visitors plus the fact that Brandon Ewing (187-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Wyoming) remained in shallow waters. It is worth mentioned the fact that Anastasiadis helped his team and with his seven points helped his team in a vital point of the game.

In the third quarter the two teams got into the court with very offensive policies as both coaches wanted their players to shot from the arc, so the first nine points were from the arc with Anthony King Tutt and Avis Wyatt scoring the first points while Stevan Milosevic received his fourth foul just before another small recital from Dejan Delic who scored 5 points and cut the deficit from 50-43 to 50-48. Avis Wyatt took over and with six personal points (two of them after an amazing pass from Michalis Kounounis (194-F/G-81) who is really astounding in some parts of the game) balanced the game to 52-52 but two three pointers from Anastasiadis and Johnson made the score 58-52 by the end of the third quarter. It is once more worth mentioned that the top performer and top scorer of the team of AEL, Brandon Ewing was not at all in a scoring mood.

The fourth quarter begun with another successful 3 pointer by Giorgos Anastasiadis (194-G/F-77) (13 points in total) who basically took the advantage from the fact that Coach Konstantinidis gave him more playing time than he usually does. The score went to nine points simply due to the three 3pointers that Etha scored. But, AEL was there so with Avis Wyatt being the key-factor in his best game of the series not only took over but with eight personal points and another basket from Papic orbit the game and the psychology for his team with less than five minutes to go. It was amazing how fast the two teams take over and with 'dead' minutes from both teams the opponent is simply taking over the game. Avis Wyatt is amazing though and is the main reason (with Dejan Delic) that AEL took the leading role and with 61-62 in less than three minutes changed totally the game. Valdas Dabkus and Tutt scored two baskets and reshaped the score to 65-62 but it was obvious that the game was a derby and no matter the home court advantage that ETHA had, AEL and the Limassol players were fighters and it was for sure that the wild beauty of this derby would have been simply which team would have lose the scoring mode. With less than three minutes to go, Anthony King was successful in both the free throws given to him and brought the score to 67-62 with the Coaches of AEL, Markos Asonitis and Christos Spirou getting another time-out to calm their players and to give them directions as the 3.07 were quite crucial for the visitors. Right after the time-out Brandon Ewing received a technical foul but Valdas Dabkus acted very unprofessionally so right after he scored both the free throws received also a technical foul and with the score being 69-62 and with 2.16 to the end instead of killing the game for his team, he killed his team as Michalis Kounounis trapped him, so AEL went back to the game as in a dead time Michalis Kounounis scored the one out of two free throws and Dejan Delic both of them and the score became again 69-65 with 2.03 before the end of the thrilling game. AELs players are more experienced in such games and this is quite obvious in some parts of the game where the rookies of Etha were not able to simply finish the game. AELs coaching team saw Avis Wyatt their top performer not being able to help them as due to an injury went out for a minute and Stevan Milosevic got in with the score being 69-66 after the one free throw that Brandon Ewing scored from the fifth foul of Valdas Dabkus. Anthony King and Reggie Redding are scoring three of four free throws and Avis Wyatt answered back, but the turning point of the game was meant to be the following: Tarick Johnson (192-G/F-81, college: Campbell) who was in a very low productivity night, wins a foul, he scores the first free throw but he loses the second and AELs players cant grab the rebound so he is dashing the rebound he scored and he earns the foul from Michalis Kounounis making the score 76-68 with 44 seconds to go, in less than 3 seconds the American player scored four points. Liatsos, scores his first basket of the game but Johnson wanted the double so he is performing an amazing dunk for the 79-70. Dejan Delic is not giving up and he scored a three pointer from his house in less than 24 seconds to go. The double for the Engomis team is a FACT, the last baskets of the game were scored by the furious (in the last minutes) Tarick Johnson and Anthony King with free throws. Final score 82-73 and Etha Engomis is registering its most significant day in its history!

Top scorer of the game was Avis Wyatt who played on behalf of Brandon Ewing also as the American guard was not in the court today, followed by Delic who was amazing tonight.

Top scorer on behalf of the champions was their captain, Anthony King with his leading figure scoring 24 points, but the MVP of the game for Eurobasket.com was no other than the Cypriot guard Giorgos Anastasiadis who scored 13 points with three 3pointers and very good performance in general.



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


Chester Simmons claims Czech Republic NBL weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American Chester Simmons (198-G-82) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's leader CEZ Nymburk and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 11 (Second Stage).
The 28-year old guard had the game-high 17 points adding seven rebounds and five assists for CEZ Nymburk in his team's victory, helping them to beat BK Pardubice (#3, 5-4) 76-69. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed CEZ Nymburk to consolidate first place in the Czech Republic NBL. They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. CEZ Nymburk still have not lost a single game, getting all 8 victories in Second Stage. Simmons turned to be CEZ Nymburk's top player in his first season with the team. Chester Simmons averages this season 12.6ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 26-year old international forward Pavel Houska (201-F-84) of BK Decin. Houska impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 19 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as BK Decin lost that game 72-77 to slightly higher-ranked BK Prostejov (#2, 7-2). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. BK Decin still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-6 record. Houska is one of the most experienced players at BK Decin and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 14.9ppg (#4). He also registered 8.6 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was Canadian Andrew Spagrud (203-F-85) of NH Ostrava (#5). Spagrud scored 18 points and grabbed five rebounds. He was a key player of NH Ostrava, leading his team to a 79-59 easy win against slightly lower-ranked Novy Jicin (#6, 1-8). NH Ostrava can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-6 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Spagrud he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Spagrud has individually a great season in Czech Republic. After 17 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.2ppg (8th best) and rebounds with 8.4rpg (5th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kyle Landry (206-F-86) of BK Prostejov - 11 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Zbynek Pospisil (205-C-81) of BK Pardubice - 16 points and 2 assists
6. Eugene Lawrence (184-G-86) of BK Prostejov - 16 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Marcus Arnold (207-F/C-84) of BK Pardubice - 14 points and 7 rebounds
8. Admir Alic (198-F-84) of BK Decin - 20 points and 3 rebounds
9. Pavel Pumprla (196-G-86) of CEZ Nymburk - 11 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Andrius Slezas (200-F-75) of BK Prostejov - 16 points and 6 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)

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


Is Chris Christoffersen the Finals MVP? - by Thomas Soltau
It is always interesting to see what players steep up when it is all on the line. What players perform under pressure?
Nicolai Iversen (205-F/C-80) was voted Player Of The Year by the CDL, but was Chris Christoffersen (218-C-79, college: Oregon) then the MVP of the Finals?

The bigman really proved his worth staying away from silly fouls that would limit his minutes, and by being a force like no other on defence - blocking and altering shots left and right, and he also scored the ball on the offensive end.

Christoffersen peeked at just the right time, as the Bakken Bear swept the Rabbits 4-0 in the series.

Game 1: 18 points, 7 rebounds and 6 blocks

Game 2: 10 points, 10 rebounds and 7 blocks

Game 3: 9 points, 8 rebounds and 1 block

Game 4: 13 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks

That makes an average of 4,25 block per game in the Finals.

Chris Christoffersen is the Finals MVP!!

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Points Per Game
 Thomas SOLTAU
  SISU
  (210-F-82)
  Avg: 22.8
 1. Soltau, SISU22.8 
 2. Morris, Aabyhoj22.6 
 3. Hall, Aalborg21.7 
 4. Brasas, Amager BK21.1 
 5. Colas, Vaerlose19.8 
 6. Dennis, SISU18.8 
 7. Iversen, Svendborg18.8 
 8. Voskuil, Horsens IC18.7 
 9. Roberts, Naestved18.4 
 10. Falkner, Aalborg16.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lee ROBERTS
  Stirling S.
  (201-F/C-87)
  Avg: 13.2
 1. Roberts, Naestved13.2 
 2. Colas, Vaerlose10.5 
 3. Morris, Aabyhoj9.9 
 4. Falkner, Aalborg9.6 
 5. St.John, Horsens IC9.5 
 6. Johansen, Naestved9.3 
 7. Soltau, SISU8.8 
 8. Thorpe, Bakken7.8 
 9. Williams, Svendborg7.5 
 10. Iversen, Svendborg7.2 
Assists Per Game
 D.J. SMEDLEY
  Naestved
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Smedley, Naestved6.6 
 2. Claitt, Horsens IC5.4 
 3. Hall, Aalborg5.2 
 4. Dennis, SISU4.6 
 5. Burgess, Bakken4.2 
 6. Martin, Aabyhoj4.1 
 7. Nielsen, Horsholm4.1 
 8. Jensen, Vaerlose3.7 
 9. Darboe, Svendborg3.7 
 10. Nielsen, SISU3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Marquis HALL
  Aalborg
  (183-G-87)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Hall, Aalborg3.8 
 2. Kristiansen, Aalborg2.1 
 3. Burgess, Bakken2.1 
 4. Dennis, SISU1.9 
 5. Nielsen, Horsholm1.8 
 6. Jukic, Aabyhoj1.8 
 7. Nielsen, SISU1.7 
 8. Jakobsen, Bakken1.7 
 9. Smedley, Naestved1.7 
 10. Voskuil, Horsens IC1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Edward MORRIS
  Albury W.B.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Morris, Aabyhoj2.1 
 2. Christoffers., Bak.1.9 
 3. Blackmon, Horsholm1.7 
 4. Colas, Vaerlose1.4 
 5. Roberts, Naestved1.2 
 6. Brown, SISU0.8 
 7. St.John, Horsens IC0.8 
 8. McGinn, Aalborg0.7 
 9. Johansen, Naestved0.7 
 10. Marinkovic, Horsholm0.6 


Bears sweep Rabbits in the Finals (4-0), take back the title after one year - by Eurobasket News
Finals, Game 4: Bakken - Svendborg 74-67 (4-0)

Bakken Bears swept Svendborg Rabbits with perfect 4-0 in the Finals to win Ligaen title for season 2010/11. The Rabbits won it last season and before that Bakken grabbed three trophies in a row.
The hosts trailed by 13 points at the halftime before their 42-22 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Bakken dominated on the defensive end, holding Svendborg to just 4 points in third quarter. They also forced 19 Svendborg turnovers. 25 personal fouls committed by Svendborg helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American-Belizean guard Charles Burgess (186-G-84, college: Texas Tech) fired 18 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 7 steals for the winners. The former international center Chris Christoffersen (218-79, college: Oregon) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 12 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). The former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC, agency: Rasmussen Services) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds and American forward Matt Williams (200-77, college: Montana) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five Bakken and four Svendborg players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Bakken Bears advanced to Playoffs as No.3 in regular season with 24-3 record. They eliminated Aabyhoj with 2-0 in the Quarterfinals and later blasted Naestved 3-0 in the Semis.

Top scorers:
Bakken: C.Burgess 18+6reb+4ast, C.Christoffersen 13+12reb, A.Jakobsen 13+2reb+1ast, C.Nielsen 11+1reb+3ast, J.Thorpe 10+7reb+4ast, M.Thuesen 5+2reb
Svendborg: N.Iversen 19+10reb+1ast, A.Darboe 13+3reb+2ast, C.Cavanaugh 12+6reb, M.Williams 11+7reb+1ast, M.Plannthin 7+6reb+3ast, N.Degn-Andersen 3+1reb

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Trey JOHNSON
  LA Lakers
  (196-G-84)
  Avg: 25.7
 1. Johnson, Bakersfi.25.7 
 2. Johnson, Erie B.22.6 
 3. Jeffers, Iowa E.21.1 
 4. Sims, Maine RC20.3 
 5. Alexander, Texas L.20.2 
 6. Stinson, Iowa E.20.1 
 7. McNeal, Rio Grande19.8 
 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 Grande12.2 
 2. Ewing, Sioux F.10.6 
 3. Davidson, Idaho S.10.1 
 4. Williams, Texas L.9.6 
 5. Sims, Iowa E.9.6 
 6. Phillips, Ft.Wayne.9.3 
 7. Johnson, Dakota W.9.2 
 8. Jeffers, Iowa E.9.1 
 9. Alexander, Texas L.8.9 
 10. Aldrich, Tulsa 66ers8.9 
Assists Per Game
 Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Stinson, Iowa E.9.7 
 2. Miles, Reno Bighorns8.7 
 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
 Javaris CRITTENTON
  Dakota W.
  (196-G-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Crittenton, Dakota W.2.5 
 2. Miles, Reno Bighorns2.5 
 3. Dowdell, Tulsa 66ers2.5 
 4. Jackson, Idaho S.2.1 
 5. Lin, Reno Bighorns2.1 
 6. Lofton, Iowa E.2.1 
 7. Greene, Utah F.2.0 
 8. Lafayette, Ft.Wayne.2.0 
 9. Shakur, Rio Grande1.9 
 10. Kramer, Ft.Wayne.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 66ers2.7 
 4. Gaffney, Utah F.2.3 
 5. Naymick, Bakersfi.2.2 
 6. Whiteside, Reno B.2.2 
 7. Goodridge, Maine R.2.1 
 8. Gladness, Dakota W.2.0 
 9. Fall, Maine RC1.9 
 10. Sykes, Sioux F.1.8 


Energy clinch Finals berth with 107-94 victory over Tulsa - by Eurobasket News
Scott VanderMeer (7'0''-C-86, college: Ill.-Chicago) scored 19 points and grabbed 18 rebounds to lead the Iowa Energy to the NBA D-League Finals with a 107-94 victory over the Tulsa 66ers.

Iowa jumped out to a 30-19 lead after the 1st quarter as Curtis Stinson and VanderMeer had eight points each. Tulsa battled back in the 2nd quarter as a Robert Vaden (6'5''-G/F-85, college: UAB) 3-pointer put the 66ers up 37-35 with 7:01 left before the break. A pair of Jerome Dyson (6'3''-G-87, college: Connecticut) free throws extended the lead to 48-40, giving Tulsa their biggest lead of the game.

After struggling most of the quarter, the Energy found their groove late in the 2nd quarter and went on a 10-0 run capped by Michael Haynes free throw, to make the score 50-48 in favor of the Energy. Moment later, the Energy found themselves trailing 51-50 as time was winding down in the half. A Scott VanderMeer miss was corralled by Shyron Ely, who flung the ball through the hoop as the buzzer sounded to send the home team into the locker room with a 52-51 lead.

The two teams traded baskets early in the 3rd quarter, putting Iowa up 64-60 with 6:27 left. A layup by VanderMeer started a 10-0 run for Iowa that put the home team up by 14. Iowa stretched the lead to 85-69 at the end of the quarter as Moses Ehambe scored on a reverse layup.

The Energy extended their lead to 20 points before coasting to the easy victory.

Stinson finished with 19 points and 13 assists while Stefhon Hannah added 18 points. Ehambe finished with 17 points while Haynes contributed 15 points on the night.

Tulsa was led by Robert Vaden 's 22 points. Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, college: UAB) added 18 for the visitors.

The win sends Iowa to the NBA D-League Finals for the first time in franchise history. The Energy will take on the winner of the Rio Grande Valley / Reno series. Dates for the finals will be released later this week.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Curtis Stinson named D-League MVP for 2010-11 - by Eurobasket News
Curtis Stinson (6'2''-G-83, college: Iowa St.) of the Iowa Energy today was named the NBA Development Leagues Most Valuable Player, as voted on by the NBA D-Leagues 16 head coaches.

Stinson, a 6-3, 215-pound guard out of Iowa State, started in 48 of Iowas regular season games, averaging 19.3 points, 9.8 assists and 5.7 rebounds in 42.9 minutes. Stinson led the NBA D-League this season in assists, minutes, triple-doubles (five) and double-doubles (28), leading Iowa to the Eastern Conference title with a 37-13 regular season record, the best in the NBA D-League.

Its a real honor to be named MVP of the D-League, Stinson said. There are a lot of great players in this league, and to receive this award is one of the highlights of my career. I am truly thankful to have great teammates and coaches, and I appreciate all they have done to help me earn this recognition.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 18.7
 1. Thornton, Voru KK18.7 
 2. Saage, Rakvere18.1 
 3. Erm, Rapla17.9 
 4. Vaikulis, Rakvere16.7 
 5. Raap, Parnu16.6 
 6. Brown, Va.16.3 
 7. Raadik, Parnu16.2 
 8. Arnold, TT.15.7 
 9. Osby, TT.15.6 
 10. Hall, Rakvere15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Andrais THORNTON
  Penafiel
  (203-C-85)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Thornton, Voru KK12.2 
 2. Brown, Va.11.1 
 3. Arnold, TT.11.0 
 4. Ringmets, Rapla9.6 
 5. Osby, TT.9.6 
 6. Kuuba, Voru KK8.9 
 7. Eziukwu, TU/Rock8.4 
 8. Pokla, Rakvere7.4 
 9. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.7.3 
 10. Raadik, Parnu6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Valmo KRIISA
  TTU/Kalev
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Kriisa, TT.3.8 
 2. Sokk, Kalev/Cramo3.4 
 3. Sokk, TU/Rock3.3 
 4. Vaikulis, Rakvere3.3 
 5. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock3.0 
 6. Tamm, Kalev/Cramo2.8 
 7. Pokla, Rakvere2.7 
 8. Laane, Rapla2.6 
 9. Winston, Va.2.6 
 10. Oja, Va.2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Rait-Riivo LAANE
  Rapla
  (180-G-93)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Laane, Rapla2.5 
 2. Raap, Parnu2.2 
 3. Skele, Kalev/Cramo2.2 
 4. Saage, Rakvere2.2 
 5. Leppik, TU/Rock2.2 
 6. Karner, Parnu2.1 
 7. Dorbek, Rakvere1.9 
 8. Veideman, TU/Rock1.8 
 9. Doronin, TU/Rock1.8 
 10. Pilk, TT.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock1.8 
 2. Osby, TT.1.3 
 3. Dunigan, Kalev/Cr.1.2 
 4. Raadik, Parnu1.2 
 5. Toome, Kalev/Cramo0.9 
 6. Arnold, TT.0.9 
 7. Raadik, TU/Rock0.7 
 8. Brown, Va.0.7 
 9. Saarmets, TTU/K.0.7 
 10. Ringmets, Rapla0.7 


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup Awards 2010-11 - by Greg
All-EuroCup 1st Team 2010-2011
#s#
Maciej Lampe
Lampe
Dontaye Draper
Draper
Marko Popovic
Popovic
Devin Smith
Smith
Tariq Kirksay
Kirksay
#e#5

Player of the Year: Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) of Unics Russia
Guard of the Year: Dontaye Draper (180-G-84) of Cedevita Croatia
Forward of the Year: Devin Smith (196-G/F-81) of Benetton TV Italy
Center of the Year: Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) of Unics Russia
European Player of the Year: Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) of Unics Russia
Import of the Year: Devin Smith (196-G/F-81) of Benetton TV Italy
Coach of the Year: Evgeny Pashutin of Unics Russia

1st Team
G: Dontaye Draper (180-84) of Cedevita Croatia
G: Marko Popovic (185-82) of Unics Russia
G/F: Devin Smith (196-81) of Benetton TV Italy
F: Tariq Kirksay (199-79) of Cajasol Spain
C: Maciej Lampe (210-85) of Unics Russia

2nd Team
G: Terrell Lyday (190-79) of Unics Russia
G: Jaycee Carroll (188-83) of Gran Canaria Spain
F: Nik Caner-Medley (203-83) of Estudiantes Spain
F: Kelly McCarty (201-75) of Unics Russia
C: Paul Davis (211-84) of Cajasol Spain

3rd Team
G: Bracey Wright (191-84) of Cedevita Croatia
G: Chester Simmons (198-82) of CEZ Nymburk Czech Republic
F: Dwayne Anderson (198-86) of Goettingen Germany
F: P.J. Tucker (198-85) of Aris Greece
F/C: Judson Wallace (205-82) of Gran Canaria Spain

Honorable Mention
Preston Shumpert (198-G-79) of Galatasaray Turkey
Julius Jenkins (187-G-81) of ALBA Germany
Stefan Markovic (194-G-88) of Benetton TV Italy
Afik Nissim (180-G-81) of CEZ Nymburk Czech Republic
Pancho Jasen (199-G-78) of Estudiantes Spain
Benjamin Dewar (196-G/F-81) of Le Mans France
Joshua Shipp (196-G/F-86) of Galatasaray Turkey
Jumaine Jones (202-F-79) of Pepsi Caserta Italy
Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82) of Aris Greece
Zach Morley (203-F-83) of Budivelnyk Ukraine
Corsley Edwards (205-C/F-79) of Cedevita Croatia
Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78) of Estudiantes Spain

All-Europeans Team
G: Marko Popovic (185-82) of Unics Russia
G: Pancho Jasen (199-78) of Estudiantes Spain
F: Kelly McCarty (201-75) of Unics Russia
F: Tariq Kirksay (199-79) of Cajasol Spain
C: Maciej Lampe (210-85) of Unics Russia

All-Imports Team
G: Dontaye Draper (180-84) of Cedevita Croatia
G: Terrell Lyday (190-79) of Unics Russia
G/F: Devin Smith (196-81) of Benetton TV Italy
F: Nik Caner-Medley (203-83) of Estudiantes Spain
C: Paul Davis (211-84) of Cajasol Spain



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


Kataja join Tampereen Pyrinto in the Finals - by Eurobasket News
Kataja - KTP 81-68

Kataja join Tampereen Pyrinto in the Finals as they won over KTP 81:68 to take 3-1 win in the series. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 15-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 81-68. Joensuun Kataja outrebounded KTP-Basket 37-26 including 29 on the defensive glass. 25 personal fouls committed by KTP-Basket helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of American swingman Jared Newson (195-84, college: Tennessee-Martin, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 29 points and 5 rebounds. The other American import guard Jason Conley (196-81, college: Missouri, agency: Pro One Sports) contributed with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Jeb Ivey (190-80, college: Portland St.) replied with 26 points and 4 assists and Canadian forward Sefton Barrett (196-83, college: Cent.Michigan, agency: Limelight Hoops) added 21 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for KTP-Basket.
Top scorers:
Kataja: J.Newson 29+5reb, J.Conley 18+7reb+4ast, S.Lehtoranta 16+9reb+1ast, D.Fells 9+13reb+3ast, A.Kanervo 7+1reb+3ast, J.Nenonen 2+2reb
KTP: J.Ivey 26+3reb+4ast, S.Barrett 21+7reb, V.Lind 6, J.Fields 5+7reb+5ast, C.Jones 4+6reb, J.Lehtoranta 3+2reb
gschID: 127244




KORISLIIGA: Kataja and Pyrinto are the Finalists - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, semi-finals, Game # 4: KTP (Kotka) visiting tonight in Joensuu, winning three out of four quarters against local Kataja, but losing the game by 13 points: 81-68 (43-28). Quarters: 13-16, 30-12, 20-21, 18-19. The second quarter was disaster for KTP and cost the chance for the fifth contest between these two teams. Kataja's defense was again tough. Only two KTP players were in double digits. Actually only two players were over six points! Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.) and Sefton Barrett (196-F-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Michigan) combined 47 pts. Kataja had three players in double figures. Jared Newson (195-G/F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tennessee-Martin) scored game high 29 pts. Jason Conley (196-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) added 18 pts. The bronze game (KTP vs Korihait) on Saturday, April 23. The Finals (Pyrinto vs Kataja) will start on Monday, April 25.
Kataja - KTP 81-68 (43-28). (Jared Newson 29, Jason Conley 18, Sami Lehtoranta 16/9 - Jeb Ivey 26, Sefton Barrett 21/7, Ville-Pertti Lind 6). Kataja - KTP 3-1.



Stats Leaders - Korisliiga
Points Per Game
 Jonathan HEARD
  Tarmo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Heard, Tarmo21.9 
 2. Wilson, Honka21.8 
 3. Wood, Karhu20.6 
 4. Lewis, LrNM.20.5 
 5. Bailey, LrNM.19.6 
 6. Barrett, KTP19.4 
 7. Blanchard, ToPo19.4 
 8. Walker, Kouvot19.4 
 9. Williamson, Honka19.2 
 10. Baxley, Karhu18.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 13
 1. Wood, Karhu13.0 
 2. Kaunisto, Kouvot10.6 
 3. Doaks, Salon Vilpas10.1 
 4. Mathis, Namika Lahti9.9 
 5. Young, Tarmo9.6 
 6. Williams, Pyrinto9.6 
 7. Blanchard, ToPo9.0 
 8. Vinson, Kouvot9.0 
 9. Coleman, LrNM.8.8 
 10. Belser, Honka8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Steffan JOHNSON
  Karhu
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Johnson, Karhu4.8 
 2. Moore, LrNM.4.8 
 3. Williams, Pyrinto4.4 
 4. Suonio, Namika Lahti4.3 
 5. Virtanen, Kataja4.1 
 6. Wood, Karhu3.9 
 7. Fields, KTP3.6 
 8. Ivey, KTP3.6 
 9. Sarcevic, Korihait3.5 
 10. Wilson, Honka3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Jeremiah WOOD
  Karhu
  (200-F-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Wood, Karhu2.1 
 2. Fields, KTP2.1 
 3. Moore, Korihait1.9 
 4. Williams, Pyrinto1.8 
 5. Conerly, Tarmo1.8 
 6. Sarcevic, Korihait1.7 
 7. Heard, Tarmo1.7 
 8. Wilson, Salon Vilpas1.6 
 9. Newson, Kataja1.6 
 10. Ayers, Namika L.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 James REAVES
  Korihait
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 0.8
 1. Reaves, Korihait0.8 
 2. Hendley, Namika Lahti0.7 
 3. Wilson, Honka0.7 
 4. Heard, Tarmo0.7 
 5. Bailey, LrNM.0.7 
 6. Young, Tarmo0.6 
 7. Wright, Korihait0.6 
 8. Heinonen, Korihait0.6 
 9. Suonio, Namika Lahti0.6 
 10. Makalainen, Karhu0.6 


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


CSP Limoges inks Dwayne Curtis - by Eurobasket News
Dwayne Curtis (203-C-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Mississippi) is a new member of CSP Limoges. The American big guy signed a deal for rest of the season. Curtis arrives to Limoges from the Spanish outfit CE CIP Lleida Basquetbol. He appeared 34 times with them in LEB Gold averaging 11.4 points and 9.2 rebounds. His team finished as No.12 with 13-21 record.
Before Lleida, Dwayne Curtis spent one year with TTNET Beykozspor. They competed in Turkish second division, where Curtis had 18.7 ppg and 10.7 rpg for 18 games. In 2008/09, he registered 6.4 ppg and 4.1 rpg in Romanian league with CSU Asesoft Ploiesti. Curtis helped Asesoft win the double that year. Dwayne Curtis is a University of Mississippi product, where he graduated in 2008. He had 14.9 ppg and 9.6 rpg there as a senior.

*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


29 April, All STAR game - by Akaki Bakradze
Now in the league break. Teams are preparing for the games in the Play Offs. They will begin May 3. in the first round meet:
Army-Energy
TSU-GTU
Kutaisi-Samedicino
MIA-Sokhumi
Games last until 2 victories.
Team are preparing for the decisive matches. Winner of the regular season Army camp in Batumi. They can spend a few sparring match in Turkey.
Prior to Play Off, on April 29 in Kutaisi will ALL STAR game. Now there is a vote to determine the players.

Reports:Jeremy Pargo may receive a Georgian Passport - by Nikloz Arveladze
American guard Jeremy Pargo (188-PG-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) may receive a Georgian Passport according to reports in Georgia.
Reports says that the Georgian federation are considering naturalizing Pargo so he will play for Georgia in Eurobasket 2011 in Lithuania.
Pargo,who plays for Israeli champions - Maccabi Tel-Aviv and led the team to the Euroleague final four in Barcelona in May after having a great season averaging 13ppg,3.5rpg and 3.9ap.
The guard was voted for Euroleague MPV of March after leading his team to a 3-1 playoffs victory over Spanish outfit Caja Laboral and the ticket to the Final four.
Current naturalized player for the Georgian team is American guard Taurean Green (185-G-85, college: Florida) who plays for Spanish team Gran Canaria.Green led Georgia to this summer Eurobasket after averaging 11ppg,2.4rpg and 2.5apg in the Eurobasket qualifying round.
Georgia already had Naturalized several American players as Shammond Williams,Tyrone Ellis,Malvin Sanders and Green.
It may be seen if Green will continue and play for Georgia in The Eurobasket or Pargo will replace him in the Naturalized position.

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


Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga North Awards 2010-2011 - by Moritz Korff



#s#
Marco Grimaldi
Grimaldi
Christopher Rodgers
Rodgers
Kedrick Johnson
Johnson
Robert Dill
Dill
Michael Schroeder
Schroeder
#e#1

Player of the Year: Marco Grimaldi (188-G-83, agency: Rasmussen Services) - BG Goettingen
Domestic Player of the Year: Marco Grimaldi (188-G-83) - BG Goettingen
Defensive Player of the Year: Michael Schroeder (210-C-84) - BG Goettingen
Most Improved Player of the Year: Maximilian Kuhle (182-G-91) - ASC Goettingen
Newcomer of the Year: Kevin Smit (183-G-91) - Oldenburg
Coach of the Year: Hans-Werner Schmidt - BG Goettingen

First Team
Marco Grimaldi (188-G-83) - BG Goettingen
Christopher Rodgers (186-G-81, college: Bucknell) - Wolfenbuettel
Kedrick Johnson (192-F-83, college: Lee) - Stade
Robert Dill (207-F-82, college: Lafayette) - BG Goettingen
Michael Schroeder (210-C-84) - BG Goettingen

Second Team
Sascha Ahnsehl (186-G-86) - BSW Sixers
Tut Ruach (188-G-85, college: York) - Itzehoe
Nico Adamczak (189-G-90) - BG Goettingen
Martinis Woody (203-F/C, college: Benedict) - Itzehoe
Ryan McLemore (206-F/C-85, college: Edinboro) - BSW Sixers

Honorable Mention
Julio Anthony (193-G-86, college: E.Illinois) - BSW Sixers
Timo Bode (205-C) - ASC Goettingen
Maximilian Kuhle (182-G-91) - ASC Goettingen
Kris Miller (191-G-83, college: William Penn) - Stade
Selim Mulic (203-F-76) - ASC Goettingen
Dirk Samuel Rhinehart (192-G-80, college: Kalamazoo) - Bramsche

Domestic Players Team
Marco Grimaldi (188-G-83) of BG 74 Goettingen II - BG Goettingen
Sascha Ahnsehl (186-G-86) - BSW Sixers
Nico Adamczak (189-G-90) - BG Goettingen
Robert Dill (207-F-82) of BG 74 Goettingen II - BG Goettingen
Michael Schroeder (210-C-84) of BG 74 Goettingen II - BG Goettingen

The votes have been made by coaches and team official of the RLN teams plus one vote made by Eurobasket.com

John Bynum (TBB Trier) Postgame Thoughts To 72-58 Loss Against The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig - 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 after the 72-58 loss in Braunschweig.

A tough 72-58 loss in Braunschweig. You have played in many German arenas, but what is your overall impression of the Volkswagon arena in Braunschweig?


It is a very nice arena and is one of the nicer arenas in Germany. I like how it is open and has a lot of space.

The score was deadlocked at 35-35 at halftime. What did coach Henrik Roedl tell the team to do better in the second half?

We did a lot of good things but had a lot of defensive let ups in the 1st half. He just said to continue to play hard and tried to adjust a few things.

TBB Trier was unable to score more in the second half. Did Braunschweig make any defensive adjustments or why was there less offensive production?

Yea they did make adjustments. They clogged the middle and wanted to see if we could hit some outside shots and we failed to do so. It was one of those days for us and we werent able to get things on the offensive end to fall for us.

TBB Trier have one last home game vs Artland Dragons. What positives can you take out of this game?

Well it is our last home game and we just have to come out and try and get a win, because we can still sneak into the playoffs with some help still. This game is still an important one for us and we will come out and play hard.

What was the biggest flaw in the TBB Trier game? Possibly a lack of a spreading of the scoring?

I just think we couldnt hit shots from the outside. We got decent looks and we couldnt get key defensive stops as well when we needed them. Braunschweig played great and they deserved to win the game.

Have you been surprised by some first round game 1 upsets as Atlanta, Portland and Memphis won?

yea I was suprised but at the same time, a series is 7 games and all it takes is one win on the opposite teams court and the series is back where it was at the beginning.

Can the IndianaPacers get confidence with their strong first game against Chicago and win this series?

They let that one get away and we will see how they recover. They played well for 45 minutes but found a way to lose. They just have to execute the game plan and hope that they can steal one in Chicago.

How do you see the Boston Celtics-New York Knicks series? What will be key and how many games will it take?

I think boston will win in 6 games but it is going to be a hard fought series. We will see if the age of the Celtics can keep up with New York's firepower. It will be interesting

Thanks John for the chat.

Virgil Matthews (Erdgas Ehingen) When We Are Unselfish, We're Really Good. - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Virgil Matthews (188-G-83, college: Montana) is a 27 year old 188cm guard from Federal Way, Washington that is playing in Germany in the PRO B for Erdgas Ehingen. He played at Montana (NCAA) and in his senior year played 31 games: 10.1ppg, 4.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.7spg, FG: 49.8%, 3PT: 48.4%, FT: 76.1%. In 2006-2007, he turned professional and came to Germany and played for KICKZ Muenchen Basket (Germany-2.Bundesliga): 29 games: 18.0ppg, 6.1rpg, 5.2apg, 2.6spg, 2FGP: 57.3%, 3FGP: 31.8%, FT: 66.5%. In 2007-2008, he played for Tacoma Jazz (IBL). In 2008-2009, he returned back to Germany and played for Schwelmer Baskets (Germany-Regionalliga). Last season, he played for Olympia Reign (IBL, starting five): 21 games: 23.1ppg, 7.2rpg and for Seattle Aviators (NABL). Awards and Achievements in his career have been , Big Sky Conf. Regular Season Runner-Up -05, 06, Big Sky Conf. Tournament Winner -05, 06, Big Sky Tournament MVP -06, Big Sky All-Tournament Team -06, All-Big Sky Honorable Mention -06, and USBasket.com All-IBL Honorable Mention -10. Currently for Erdgas Ehingen he is averaging 11,2ppg, 5,5rpg and 3,6apg. He spoke to eurobasket after beating NBC and reaching the PRO A.

What was your feeling on the court in Ehingen when the final buzzer sounded propelling your team to the PRO A?

The feeling was great it was like joy and relief because to be in first place all season and have it come down to one game is tough but its great to win

You had said that the team had a healthy confidence leading up to the game. Do you still get some pregame jitters in a game like this that is so important?

Yea I still get pregame jitters I think its normal

How important was the quick start by Ehingen that the team held until the end?

It was very important for us, because we have had trouble in starts all season and also in the 2 previous games so to get that start and get the fans in the game was great.

Ehingen held NBC too only 22% shooting from the field. NBC missed some easy shots too. Where would you rate this defensive performance this season?

It has got to be our best all season. They missed shots that they usually make, but we played well on defense too. To hold a team like that to 47 points means something.

How key was it holding Wil Chavis/Ahmad Smith too only 10 points combined?

It was very key for us they had both hurt us a lot in the previous games so holding them down was important

NBC was led by Germans Cornelius Adler with 13 points and Dominik Schneider with 11 points. What does this mean for German basketball when two Germans lead their team in scoring. What has been your impression of the German level of play in the PRO B?

I think German basketball is getting better just by looking at Urspring a school the helps kids grow as players. and the youth leagues are helping German basketball.

Where would you rate the pandemonium level after the game on the court?

It was a 10 out of 10 it was a great atmosphere our fans were great coming out to all the games and even the game at Nurnberg, it was great to win it for them in front of them.

What was key this season for Erdgas Ehingen being so successful and reaching the PRO A?

I feel we just had a good team we were deep we practice a lot so that helps too. When we are unselfish we're really good.

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 think thats a good attitude because he's their best player and by him getting suspended he hurts his teams chances of winning. Its good for the league to have some fire not so much the technicals and suspensions.

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

He should have a chance, but Derrick Rose pretty much has that wrapped up Rose has had a great season, but Howard is a great player

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

I honestly don't know I didn't even know Eddie Curry was still trying to play. It never hurts to have big bodies though.

Thanks Virgil for the chat.

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


A2: Best players of Round 23 - by Eurobasket News
34-year old center Apostolos Koutroulias (206-C-76) put on an amazing game in the last round for Olimpiada and receives a Eurobasket.com A2 Player of the Week award for round 23.
He had a double-double of 44 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Lavrio (#3, 15-8) 100-86. Olimpiada is placed at 11th position in Greek A2. Olimpiada 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 10-13 record. In the team's last game Koutroulias had a remarkable 77.8% from 2-point range and got four three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be Olimpiada's top player in his first season with the team. Koutroulias has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (2nd best: 17.7ppg) and averages solid 53.3% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Damir Latovic (204-C-80) of league's second-best AGOR. He is Serbian center in his second season at AGOR. In the last game Latovic recorded impressive double-double of 28 points and 18 rebounds. Of course he lead AGOR to another comfortable win 80-66 over the lower-ranked Amyntas Dafnis (#10, 10-13) being unquestionably team leader. AGOR's second position in the standings has not changed. His team's 17-6 record is not bad at all. Latovic is well-known at AGOR and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Paris Martzos (197-F-85) of Panelefsiniakos AOK (#5). Martzos got into 30-points club by scoring 31 points in the last round. He was a key player of Panelefsiniakos, leading his team to a 85-69 easy win against the lower-ranked Near East (#16, 4-19). Panelefsiniakos needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 14 victories and 9 lost games. Martzos has a very solid season. In 18 games in Greece he scored 8.3ppg. He also has FGP: 66.7% and 3PT: 49.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vageli Margaritis (202-F/C-82) of KAOD - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Kostas Tsotsos (205-F/C-83) of Olimpiada - 21 points and 4 rebounds
6. Kostas Kakaroudis (204-C-83) of Ikaroi Serron - 20 points and 10 rebounds
7. Kostas Totsios (191-G-78) of Ikaroi Serron - 20 points and 13 rebounds
8. Nikos Pettas (195-G-81) of Koroivos - 18 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Christos Deligiannis (204-F-84) of Panelefsiniakos - 16 points and 10 rebounds
10. Thomas Nikou (185-G-79) of Panelefsiniakos - 11 points, 5 rebounds and 12 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)

Aris to terminate Thomas's contract - by George Fragkos
Just one game before the end of the regular season and some weeks before the beginning of the playoffs Aris Thessaloniki are obliged to make one more change at their roster. An altercation between John Thomas (206-F/C-75, college: Minnesota) and his coach Slobodan Subotic (agency: Interperformances ) proved to be something really important and the relations between them are officially broken down.

The club through its official website announced that they are going to terminate the players contract and they are in search of a forward-center. Thomas was a player who got a lot of time on the court and helped his team at many games and now the only players, who can play at those two positions, are Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket), Mihalis Tsairelis (206-F/C-88) and probably Christos Tapoutos (208-F-82). For this reason a replacement is something essential for the team.

Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Steven SMITH
  Panellinios
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 16.9
 1. Smith, Panellinios16.9 
 2. Marshall, PAOK16.8 
 3. Baxter, Ilysiakos15.9 
 4. Palacio, Kavala15.8 
 5. Kalathis, VAP K.15.0 
 6. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos14.4 
 7. Thompson, Ikaros14.3 
 8. Harris, Ikaros14.1 
 9. Jorovic, Kavala13.9 
 10. King, Peristeri GS13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 9.9
 1. Simmons, Kavala9.9 
 2. Thompson, Ikaros8.8 
 3. Bagaric, Marousi8.5 
 4. Kalathis, VAP K.8.5 
 5. Smith, Panellinios7.9 
 6. Papadopoulos, PAOK7.5 
 7. Tucker, Aris7.4 
 8. Looby, Peristeri GS7.1 
 9. Bourousis, Olympiakos6.6 
 10. Elonu, Panionios6.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jared JORDAN
  VAP Kolossos
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Jordan, VAP K.5.8 
 2. Spanoulis, Olympiakos5.5 
 3. Teodosic, Olympiakos4.8 
 4. Diamantidis, Panath.4.6 
 5. Karydas, Ilysiakos4.0 
 6. Papaloukas, Olymp.3.9 
 7. Palacio, Kavala3.8 
 8. Xanthopoulos, Panell.3.7 
 9. Gagaloudis, Marousi3.5 
 10. Parker, Iraklis3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Smush PARKER
  Iraklis
  (193-G-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Parker, Iraklis2.0 
 2. Grundy, AEK1.9 
 3. Papaloukas, Olymp.1.8 
 4. Baxter, Ilysiakos1.8 
 5. Karydas, Ilysiakos1.8 
 6. Xanthopoulos, Panell.1.7 
 7. Marshall, PAOK1.7 
 8. Papamakarios, Panell.1.6 
 9. Kojadinovic, Marousi1.5 
 10. Anderson, Panionios1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Simmons, Kavala1.9 
 2. Bagaric, Marousi1.8 
 3. Elonu, Panionios1.7 
 4. Thompson, Ikaros1.3 
 5. Looby, Peristeri GS1.2 
 6. Nesterovic, Olymp.0.9 
 7. Dunston, Aris0.9 
 8. Bourousis, Olympiakos0.7 
 9. Gechevski, PAOK0.7 
 10. Harissis, VAP K.0.7 


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


Rohnert number one in Holland for round 36 - by Eurobasket News
American guard Nate Rohnert (196-G-87) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Landstede, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 36 (last round of the regular season)
The 23-year old player was the main contributor (31 points, nine rebounds and seven assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Magixx (#4, 22-14) 76-68. Landstede ended as No.9 (10-26) and failed to reach the Playoffs. In the team's last game Rohnert had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Landstede, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Nate Rohnert averages this season 15.8ppg, 8.3rpg and 5.5apg.

The second best player in last round's games was 22-year old American Frank Turner (178-G-88, agency: Court Side) of Eiffel Towers Den Bosch. Turner had a very good evening with 18 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists. Of course he lead Eiffel Towers to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Rotterdam (#10, 1-35) 101-61. Eiffel Towers' 3rd position in the standings has not changed. They have 26-10 record and of course advanced to Playoff Quarterfinals. Turner is a newcomer at Eiffel Towers, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Todd Brown (196-G-87) of DeFriesland Aris Leeuwarden (#5). Brown scored 19 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of DeFriesland, leading his team to a 92-88 overtime win against the higher-ranked GasTerra (#2, 29-7). DeFriesland finished as No.5 (17-19) and will meet Magixx in the QFinals. Brown has a very solid season. In 36 games in Holland he scored 14.3ppg. He also has 4.7rpg and FGP: 51.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Sergio de Randamie (201-F-84) of ABC - 25 points and 4 rebounds
5. Jeroen van der List (213-C-89) of Eiffel Towers - 19 points and 6 rebounds
6. Jesse Kimbrough (183-G-82) of Giants - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Matthew Mullery (203-F-87) of Landstede - 13 points and 7 rebounds
8. Thomas Jackson (175-G-80) of ZZ Leiden - 17 points and 6 assists
9. Manny Adako (203-F-87) of DeFriesland - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Marcel Aarts (213-C-83) of Eiffel Towers - 10 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists

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



*****************************************************
  HONDURAS   


Honduras National Team for COCABA 2011 - by Greg
Starting five
#s#
Rony Palacios
Palacios
Rolando Rivera
Rivera
Virgilio Quiroz
Quiroz
Felipe Ruiz
Ruiz
Pedro Salazar
Salazar
#e#5
Rony Palacios 190-G/F-77 San Marcos-2 El Salvador
Rolando Rivera 178-G-78 Policia T. Honduras
Virgilio Quiroz Policia T. Honduras
Felipe Ruiz 196-F-80 Policia T. Honduras
Alvin Cacho 87 Icevic T. Honduras
Pedro Salazar 204-C-72 Navieros Panama
Selvin Connor 200-F-74 San Marcos-2 El Salvador
Octavio Matamoros 190-G/F-86 Ingenieros T. Honduras
Walter Rodriguez G-76 Policia T. Honduras
Persly Marin 194-F-81 San Marcos-2 El Salvador
Erasmo Sierra 198-F
Mario Amador 185-G-85

Reginald Grenald Head Coach
Jorge Pomares Assistant


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


Quarterfinals, Game 4: Atomeromu and Szolnok advance to Semifinals - by Eurobasket News
Atomeromu and Szolnok advanced to A League Semifinals. Atomeromu dethroned the defending champion ZTE and now waits for the winner of Albacomp - Falco series, which is currently tied at 2-2. Szolnok edged PVSK Pannon also with 3-1 and will meet Kormend or Kechekemeti in the Semis. Fifth decisive games of the QFinals are scheduled for Wednesday.



Kecskemeti - Kormend 85-84 (2-2)
The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Kormend won third quarter 27-24. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Kecskemeti dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Kormend's 26 and had 20 for 27 from the free-throw line, while Kormend only scored four points from the stripe. 24 personal fouls committed by Kormend helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The former international guard Krisztian Wittmann (185-85, agency: FCM) fired 35 points (!!!), 6 assists and 4 steals for the winners. American guard Jerome LaGrange (192-78, college: Livingstone) chipped in 9 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. American forward Rashad Bell (201-82, college: Boston U.) produced 22 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward Emmanuel Dies (204-77, college: Kansas St., agency: Interperformances) added 17 points and 6 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field) respectively for lost side. Four Kormend players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Kormend: R.Bell 22+5reb+1ast, E.Dies 17+6reb+1ast, C.Ferencz 14+2reb+1ast, I.Nemeth 10+2reb+7ast, R.Trummer 9, A.Rujak 9+6reb+6ast
Kecskemeti: K.Wittmann 35+4reb+6ast, H.Orsulic 12+4reb, J.LaGrange 9+6reb+6ast, M.Csorvasi 7+3reb+1ast, Z.Bencze 7+2reb, I.Siriscevic 6+2reb+3ast

gschID: 127142


Falco-Szova - Albacomp 105-87 (2-2)
It looked good early as Albacomp took an 3-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Falco-Szova had a 26-18 second period charge getting the lead and Albacomp was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 87-105. Falco-Szova shot 61.4 percent from the field and made 23-of-26 charity shots (88.5 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 57.1 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Charles Gosa (202-77, college: N.Mexico St.) who helped to win the game recording 27 points and 5 rebounds. The former international guard Laszlo Kalman (186-72, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) contributed with 19 points and 8 assists for the winners. Falco-Szova's coach Nikola Lazic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The former international guard Balazs Simon (188-80, agency: Court Side) replied with 22 points and 7 assists and American swingman Tony Crocker (201-87, college: Oklahoma, agency: Impact Basketball) added 26 points and 4 steals in the effort for Albacomp. Five Falco-Szova and four Albacomp players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Albacomp: T.Crocker 26+3reb, B.Simon 22+1reb+7ast, J.Jones 19+5reb, A.Hanga 10+4reb+5ast, A.Keller 6+3reb, R.Hendlein 2+2reb+1ast
Falco-Szova: C.Gosa 27+5reb+1ast, L.Kalman 19+4reb+8ast, J.Doyne 18+6reb+2ast, L.Simon 13+2ast, M.Aliakseyeu 11+5reb+1ast, T.Will 6+3reb+3ast
gschID: 127143


ZTE KK - Atomeromu 66-85 (1-3)
It looked good early as ZTE KK took an 5-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Atomeromu had a 19-11 second period charge getting the lead and ZTE KK was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 66-85. Atomeromu made 18-of-21 charity shots (85.7 percent) during the game. The winners were led by the former international center Gergely Koertelyesi (203-C-83, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) who scored that evening 16 points and 6 rebounds (perfect from the field making all six shots) and American forward Ian Johnson (205-84, college: Davidson) supported him with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Five Atomeromu players scored in double figures. Even 11 points by the former international swingman Tamas Kaman (200-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) did not help to save the game for ZTE KK. Swingman David Gaspar (193-82) added 11 points for lost side. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
ZTE KK: T.Kaman 11+3reb+3ast, D.Gaspar 11+3reb+2ast, G.Kinter 11+1reb+1ast, A.Toth 9+1reb+1ast, G.Baki 7+1reb+1ast, B.Delity 5+1ast
Atomeromu: B.Sales 16+4reb, G.Koertelyesi 16+6reb, I.Johnson 13+8reb, D.Vojvoda 12+2reb+2ast, J.Pavlik 12+2reb, A.Kovacs 6+1reb+3ast
gschID: 127144


PVSK Pannon - Szolnok 64-81 (1-3)
The game was mostly controlled by Szolnok. PVSK Pannon managed to win second period 24-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Szolnok dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to PVSK Pannon's 30. Szolnok had a 31-20 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a quality performance of American guard Obie Trotter (186-84, college: Alabama A&M, agency: Court Side) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 7 assists and the former international center Marton Bader (212-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) who added 10 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Four Szolnok players scored in double figures. At the losing side American swingman Muhammad El-Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook) responded with 17 points and the former international forward Norbert Toth (203-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) scored 13 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
PVSK Pannon: M.El-Amin 17+3reb+3ast, N.Toth 13+9reb, P.Kovacs 11+2ast, J.Eilingsfeld 8+9reb+2ast, J.Glavinic 7+3reb+2ast, K.Kiss 4+1reb+4ast
Szolnok: O.Trotter 14+4reb+7ast, I.Clark 14+3reb, V.Budimir 11+3reb+1ast, M.Bader 10+11reb+2ast, A.Horvath 9+6reb+3ast, P.Grebenar 8+5reb+1ast
gschID: 127141




A Division Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Jara DOYNE
  Falco-Szova
  (193-G/F-84)
  Avg: 22.3
 1. Doyne, Falco-Szova22.3 
 2. El-Amin, PVSK P.22.0 
 3. Bell, Kormend21.7 
 4. Marshall, Marso-Va.20.8 
 5. Townes, Soproni19.5 
 6. Wilson, Kaposvari19.4 
 7. Rubin, Szedeak19.3 
 8. Mekongo, FS Debre.19.3 
 9. Cunningham, Kapos.19.2 
 10. Sales, Atomeromu18.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darian TOWNES
  Soproni
  (208-F/C-84)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Townes, Soproni11.2 
 2. Sales, Atomeromu10.6 
 3. Jones, Albacomp9.2 
 4. Werner, Kaposvari9.1 
 5. Cunningham, Kapos.8.9 
 6. Bader, Szolnok8.6 
 7. Egemonye, PVSK P.8.5 
 8. Szabo, Soproni8.3 
 9. Mekongo, FS Debre.8.2 
 10. Bell, Kormend8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Lorenzo WILLIAMS
  Khimik
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Williams, ZTE K.7.3 
 2. Savic, Marso-Vagep6.5 
 3. Trotter, Szolnok6.3 
 4. Simon, Albacomp6.1 
 5. Kelley, Soproni6.1 
 6. Kalman, Falco-Sz.6.0 
 7. Rodgers, Salgotar.5.8 
 8. Moore, Kormend5.4 
 9. Glavinic, PVSK P.5.1 
 10. Wittmann, Kecsk.4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Brane SAVIC
  Marso-Vagep
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Savic, Marso-Vagep3.5 
 2. Marshall, Marso-Va.2.9 
 3. Hanga, Albacomp2.9 
 4. Czigler, Marso-Va.2.7 
 5. Werner, Kaposvari2.6 
 6. Trotter, Szolnok2.6 
 7. Williams, ZTE K.2.5 
 8. Rodgers, Salgotar.2.4 
 9. Singletary, FS Debre.2.3 
 10. Clark, Szolnok2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Ivory CLARK
  Szolnok
  (198-F-85)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Clark, Szolnok2.2 
 2. Townes, Soproni1.9 
 3. Czigler, Marso-Va.1.3 
 4. McKenzie, Szedeak1.3 
 5. Egemonye, PVSK P.1.1 
 6. Aliakseyeu, Falco-Sz.0.9 
 7. Langford, FS Debre.0.8 
 8. Keller, Albacomp0.8 
 9. Morgen, Atomeromu0.7 
 10. Bader, Szolnok0.7 


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


Eurobasket.com All-Icelandic League Awards 2010-11 - by Greg
All-Icelandic 1st Team 2010-2011
#s#
Marcus Walker
Walker
Pavel Ermolinskij
Ermolinskij
Kelly Biedler
Biedler
Gunnar Thorsteinsson
Thorsteinsson
Brynjar Bjoernsson
Bjoernsson
#e#5

Player of the Year: Marcus Walker (186-G-86) of KR
Guard of the Year: Pavel Ermolinskij (202-G/F-87) of KR
Forward of the Year: Kelly Biedler (196-F-88) of IR
Center of the Year: Gunnar Thorsteinsson (204-C-88) of Keflavik
Newcomer of the Year: Orn Sigurdarson (202-F-89) of Haukar
Bosman Player of the Year: Renato Lindmets (198-F-84) of Stjarnan
Import Player of the Year: Marcus Walker (186-G-86) of KR
Domestic Player of the Year: Pavel Ermolinskij (202-G/F-87) of KR
Defensive Player of the Year: Kelly Biedler (196-F-88) of IR
Coach of the Year: Hrafn Kristjansson of KR

1st Team
G: Marcus Walker (186-86) of KR
G/F: Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87) of KR
F: Kelly Biedler (196-88) of IR
C: Gunnar Thorsteinsson (204-88) of Keflavik
G: Brynjar Bjoernsson (191-88) of KR

2nd Team
G: Aegir Steinarsson (182-91) of Fjolnir
F: Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) of Snaefell
G: Semaj Inge (193-87) of Haukar
F: Renato Lindmets (198-84) of Stjarnan
F: Ryan Amoroso (203-85) of Snaefell

Honorable Mention
James Bartolotta (193-G-86) of IR
Sean Burton (175-PG-86) of Snaefell
Brynjar Bjoernsson (191-G-88) of KR
Andre Dabney (175-G-83) of Hamar
Thomas Sanders (191-G-85) of Keflavik
Justin Shouse (180-G-81) of Stjarnan
Craig Schoen (178-G-83) of KFI
Nemanja Sovic (198-F-77) of IR
Hayward Fain (196-F) of Tindastoll
Jovan Zdravevski (197-F-80) of Stjarnan
Gerald Robinson (204-F-84) of Haukar
Ryan Pettinella (206-F/C-84) of Grindavik

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Brynjar Bjoernsson (191-88) of KR
F: Jon Olafur Jonsson (199-81) of Snaefell
C: Gunnar Thorsteinsson (204-88) of Keflavik
G/F: Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87) of KR
G: Aegir Steinarsson (182-91) of Fjolnir

All-Imports Team
G: Marcus Walker (186-86) of KR
F: Kelly Biedler (196-88) of IR
G: Semaj Inge (193-87) of Haukar
F: Hayward Fain (196) of Tindastoll
G: Thomas Sanders (191-85) of Keflavik

All-Bosmans Team
F: Renato Lindmets (198-84) of Stjarnan
G: Andrija Ciric (199-80) of Keflavik
G: James Bartolotta (193-86) of IR
F: Ryan Amoroso (203-85) of Snaefell
F: Gerald Robinson (204-84) of Haukar

All-Defensive Team
Marcus Walker (186-G-86) of KR
Kelly Biedler (196-F-88) of IR
Axel Vilhjalmsson (188-G-88) of Keflavik
Semaj Inge (193-G-87) of Haukar
Ryan Pettinella (206-F/C-84) of Grindavik



KR is the Champions 2011 - by Siggi Hjorleifsson
KR is the Icelandic Champions 2011. Beat Stjarnan in game four 95-109 KR won the serie 3-1
First half was a hard badle, KR leading at halftime 56-54 after Brynjar Bjornsson made a three pointer on the buzzer
As so many times this season KR run away in third quarter and got the lead up to 20 points and did not look back after that.
Finnur Magnusson had a very good first half with 16 points and ended the game with 20 points on a 100% shooting in all area.
But the player of the game and MVP of the play-offs was Marcus Walker (186-G-86, college: Colorado St.) who had another great game bot on defense and offense. His quickness and hard work is just great.
Walker ended with 40 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assist and 8 steals.
For Stjarnan Jovan Zdravevski and Renato Lindmets 20 points each
Congratulation KR team and coach Hrafn Kristjansson. KR won both the Cup and the Champion.

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


Maccabi T-A is back to the negitiations table - by Carmel Drori
after a month and a half of silence between the sides,Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv decided to give the negotiations with Jeremy Pargo (188-PG-86) and Chuck Eidson (202-F/G-80) another shot.
both Pargo and Eidson don't have a contract for next season and due to Maccabi's tremendous success both in the Israeli League and the Euroleague, Maccabi decided to try and re-sign as many players as possible for next season.
Pargo current contract is for 250,000$,Maccabi already tried to re-sign the American Rookie but Pargo demanded 650,000$ while Maccabi was willing to offer him 450,000$.
since then Pargo became Maccabi's leader as a result of Doron Perkins (188-PG-83)' injury,giving jaw-dropping performances in the Euroleague Top8 against Caja Laboral Vitoria,making his stocks rise,and now it seems that Maccabi is willing to offer him 800,000$ per year and a 2 year extension.
Eidson current contract is for 650,000$,he also had negotiations with Maccabi earlier this year but decided he wanted to wait for the summer. it is reported that Maccabi will most probably re-sign him on a 2 year extension for an amount of more than 700,000$.
Maccabi's goal is to re-sign both players before the Euroleague's Final-Four.

Yavne in the Semi-Finals - by Chad Timberlake
So with the first round finished and the semi-finals starting tomorrow our team is very far into the playoff mindset. We played our first round against Elitzur Ramla and even though we won in a sweep it was a tough series. Elitzur Ramla is a very tough, veteran team that wasn't willing to end the season easily. The fought and even gave a few intentional fouls as a last resort towards the end of game two. Nir Golan (180-G-86), our point guard and team captain really came up big for us time after time hitting tough shot after tough shot. I swear that kid is a machine. His jump shot is so consistent. Overall our whole team contributed in big ways. Everyone played very well and tough and brought something to each of our wins.

The semi-finals start tomorrow and we play Maccabi Habikaa a team that we split the regular season against. It's going to be a fun series to watch from a basketball fans perspective. A three game series to make it to the championship. We haven't had much rest since the start of the playoffs. I was shocked to see that after completing the first round on Sunday night that they would start the next games Wednesday. Very quick. Then adding the passover celebration Monday night and Tuesday makes for an interesting schedule.

I just came from my managers house to enjoy the holiday with his family and it was a good time. I love the style that they eat, with having foods coming out at different times. I feel like I can eat a lot that way. The first course is just like a warm up and then the real game begins haha.

Well readers, I don't have much to blog about this time around, so this will be a short one. The playoffs are in full effect and that's consuming me right now. I love this time of year. It's my favorite, fast paced games and heavy competition. It gets no better from a competitors point of view. My goal is to come back to my next blog with good news again. I know if its up to Nir then we will be fine. Let's go Yavne!!

Your favorite blogger

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

Stats Leaders - National League
Points Per Game
 Brian ASBURY
  Hapoel T-A
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 27.3
 1. Asbury, Hapoel T-A27.3 
 2. Hall, Beer Yaakov24.3 
 3. Moragne, Hapoel B.23.4 
 4. Clemente, Megido.23.4 
 5. Miller, Megido/Y.22.4 
 6. Delaney, Maccabi .21.3 
 7. Timberlake, Elitzu.20.8 
 8. Young, Hod Hasharon20.8 
 9. Gomez, Beer Yaakov20.4 
 10. Brown, Maccabi HBK20.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jason JOHNSON
  Ironi Nahariya
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Johnson, Ironi N.12.6 
 2. Rosefelt, Ironi R.11.6 
 3. Clemente, Megido.11.3 
 4. Brandy, Hod H.10.1 
 5. Ibrahim, Kohav Y.9.8 
 6. McFarlin, Lev H.9.0 
 7. Wade, Lev Hasharon9.0 
 8. Strong, Hapoel T.8.9 
 9. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne8.9 
 10. Utter, Hapoel T-A8.9 
Assists Per Game
 Ofir FARHI
  Beer Yaakov
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Farhi, Beer Yaakov6.6 
 2. Lahat, Hapoel T-A6.5 
 3. Dobie, Lev Hasharon6.4 
 4. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.5.9 
 5. Bet-Yosef, Beer Y.5.8 
 6. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula5.7 
 7. Fisher, Ironi R.4.7 
 8. Timor, Hapoel Tivon4.6 
 9. Berkowitz, Elitzu.4.4 
 10. Davidi, Elitzur Ramla4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Nate MILLER
  Megido/Yokneam
  (193-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Miller, Megido/Y.3.1 
 2. Eliyahu, Hapoel Afula2.6 
 3. Bochman, Beer Y.2.5 
 4. Delaney, Maccabi .2.3 
 5. Markson, Hapoel A.2.2 
 6. Shaashoua, Hapoel T.2.1 
 7. Naor, Hapoel T-A2.0 
 8. Lev, Maccabi HBK2.0 
 9. Fisher, Ironi R.2.0 
 10. Young, Hod Hasharon2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Isaac ROSEFELT
  Ironi Ramat Gan
  (205-C/F-85)
  Avg: 2
 1. Rosefelt, Ironi R.2.0 
 2. Colwell, Ironi R.2.0 
 3. Utter, Hapoel T-A2.0 
 4. Strong, Hapoel T.1.9 
 5. Aidan, Hapoel Beeri1.7 
 6. Johnson, Ironi N.1.5 
 7. Hugee, Hapoel Afula1.5 
 8. Hardin, Elitzur Yavne1.4 
 9. Brandy, Hod H.1.2 
 10. Markson, Hapoel A.1.2 


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


Marshall's double-double lands him BJ League Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
29-year old guard Mikey Marshall (196-G-81, agency: Warren Sports International) put on an amazing game in the last round for Shiga Lakestars and receives a Asia-basket.com BJ League Player of the Week award for round 50.
He had a double-double of 25 points and 11 rebounds, while his team outclassed Miyazaki (#8, 13-35) with 28-point margin 107-79. Shiga Lakestars maintains the 4th position in Japanese BJ League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Shiga Lakestars will need more victories to improve their 28-20 record. In the team's last game Marshall had a remarkable 80.0% from 2-point range. He turned to be Shiga Lakestars' top player in his first season with the team. Mikey Marshall averages this season 17.8ppg and 7.2rpg. Worth to mention Marshall played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

Second best performed player last round was Jeffrey Parmer (203-F-85) of top-ranked Hamamatsu-Higashi Mikawa Phoenix. He is American forward in his first season at Hamamatsu-Higashi Mikawa Phoenix. In the last game Parmer recorded impressive double-double of 39 points and 10 rebounds. It was enough for Hamamatsu-Higashi Mikawa Phoenix to edge slightly lower-ranked Fukuoka Rizing (#3, 29-19) in overtime by 6 points 111-105. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Hamamatsu-Higashi Mikawa Phoenix consolidated its place in the very top position of the standings. His team lost just five games this season, while they won 39 matches. Parmer is a newcomer at Hamamatsu-Higashi Mikawa Phoenix and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to center Jeral Davis (216-C-84) of Shimane Susanoo Magic (#6). Davis scored 17 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Shimane, leading his team to a 86-84 win against slightly lower-ranked Oita H.Devils (#7, 16-32). Shimane needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 24 victories and 24 lost games. Davis has a very solid season. In 48 games in Japan he scored 9.8ppg. He also has 7.6rpg, 3.1bpg and FGP: 56.6%. Davis attended one of camps at Eurobasket Summer League on his way to pro basketball.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Michael Parker (200-G/F-81) of Fukuoka Rizing - 29 points and 13 rebounds
5. Brandon Cole (203-F-84) of Miyazaki - 28 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Reginald Warren (204-F-81) of Kyoto Hannaryz - 18 points, 16 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Lynn Washington (200-F-78) of Osaka Evessa - 16 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Wayne Arnold (193-G-84) of Hamamatsu P. - 25 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Damian Johnson (201-F-87) of Oita H.Devils - 24 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Reggie Golson (201-F-81) of Shimane - 27 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists

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

*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN   


Barsy and Tobol reach Final - by Eurobasket News
Barsy Atyrau and Tobol Kostanay will play for D1 crown in the best-of-five series. The season finale starts on May 3.
Barsy Atyrau celebrated the third and decisive win over Kaspiy in Aktau. Edgar Chunda stepped up with 11 points and 11 rebounds as Barsy claimed a 72:64 victory. It was a tough battle for both teams. Barsy earned a 24:19 lead after ten minutes but Kaspiy increased the tempo in the second stanza. They cut the deficit at 3 points at the interval 37:40. Kaspiy erased the deficit in the third frame as the teams entered the fourth quarter leveled at 52. But Barsy proved the strength in the final period. They limited the hosts to 12 points and snatched a difficult victory. Pavel Ilin (202-F-92) and Sergey Stroilov (203-F-81) finished with 10 points apiece for Barsy. Gytis Andrijauskas (187-G-86) responded with 21 points for Kaspiy. Roman Muravyov (194-G/F-84) had 13 points in defeat.
Tobol came up with the biggest surprise at this stage of the tournament as they swept their semifinal series versus Astana Tigers. Tobol sealed the Final appearance in Kostanay following a 74:70 success. Pavel Mikheev (200-F-83) knocked down 16 points to pace the charge. Tobol led from the start. They outgunned the visitors in the first three quarters building a comfortable 14-point advantage. Astana went on a desperate rescue rally cutting the deficit to single digits late in regulation but Tobol hung on to celebrate the key win at the end. Evgeniy Gorev (192-G-82) came up with 14 points and 7 rebounds, while Aleksandr Golubev (196-F-78) had 13 points for the winners. Dmitriy Gavrilov (203-F-86) answered with 23 points for Astana. Vilius Gabsys (199-F-79, agency: Court Side) finished with 15 points in the losing effort.


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


Champions Maseno Take on Laiser Hill in Final Today - by Eurobasket News
Champions Maseno crushed Kamusinga 96-56 to reach the finals of the boys basketball in the Kenya Secondary Schools Term One ball Games. Following the victory, Maseno will face two-time champions (2005 and 2007) take on East and central African Secondary Schools basketball titleholders Laiser Hill Academy of Rift Valley in the final. Laiser beat Nairobi's Upper Hill 74-58 in the other semi-final. The two teams met in the final last year where maseno prevailed. They also met in the opening match of the ongoing show where Maseno lost 50-73. Laiser took all the four quarters of the game even as Kamusinga put up a spirited fight. They took the first quarter 32-19 and the second 15-11. The Rift valley boys then won 25-18 and 24-18 in the last two quarters respectively. Matchmaker Brian Danek top scorer with 22 points while teammate Okal Otieno netted 14 points.

Laiser Hill qualified for the semis after topping pool 'A' with nine points followed by Maseno with six points. Upper Hill topped Pool 'B' with nine points after winning all their marches followed by Kamusinga who won two and lost one.

Courtesy of Nairobi Star

Tigoi Meet Shimba in Final Duel - by Eurobasket News
Kenya Secondary Schools Term One Games basketball champions Tigoi girls yesterday booked a date in the final with arch-rivals Shimba Hills from Coast province after eliminating their opponents in their respective semi-final matches played yesterday. The two sides also met in the final last year at Upper Hill School, where Tigoi emerged top.

To sail to the final, Tigoi beat newcomers Ogande from Nyanza 110-57 in the first semi-final while Shimba Hills overcame the other newcomers, Rift Valley's Laiser Hill 56-36.

Tigoi, who are also the regional basketball champions first won the Basketball title in 1992 before losing it the following year to Kisumu Girls. They won it again in 2004 only to surrender it to Mombasa High the following year. Mombasa clung onto the title for four years in a row.

Tigoi, representing Western commanded the game from the word go taking the first quarter at 33-10. The losers, who are appearing at the nation scene for the first time, put up little resistance to the well-oiled side that went on to prove they are not the regional queens by mistake.

Tigoi won the second and third quarters at 32-14 and 31-15 respectively, this placing their lead beyond reach for the Nyanza girls. However, complacency on the part of Tigoi saw Ogande return strongly to settle for the last quarter 18-14.
Though Ogande appeared overwhelmed by their opponents, they were evidently satisfied with their progress for far, this being their first year at national level.

Tigoi's Nancy Atieno and Lucy Akinyi were the highest scorers in the match with 36 and 35 points respectively while Sanda Adhiambo and Bephine Nyairo top scored for the losers with 36 and 6. Shimba Hills, who won the title for the first time in 2009 before giving it away to Tigoi will be seeking to reclaim the title when they clash in the finals today.

Shimba lost the first quarter 6-9 to Laiser before recovering to win the second 21-5. They lost the third quarter 9-13 and won the final quarter at 17-9. Lydia Imbali and Michelle Adhiambo scored 15 and 13 points respectively for the winners while Everlyne Aketch netted two three pointer.
Courtesy of: Nairobi Star

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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Scott WILSON
  Zemgale
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 16.1
 1. Wilson, Zemgale16.1 
 2. Willjam, Barons15.9 
 3. Bergmanis, Zemgale15.1 
 4. Peiners, LU14.8 
 5. Caldwell, Liepaja14.1 
 6. Veselovs, Valmiera14.1 
 7. Duselis, LU14.1 
 8. Mednis, Turiba13.8 
 9. Vaikulis, Liepaja13.4 
 10. Berzins, VEF R.13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Roberts MEDNIS
  Turiba
  (204-C-89)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Mednis, Turiba7.9 
 2. Rozitis, Zemgale7.7 
 3. Berzins, VEF R.7.5 
 4. Wilson, Zemgale7.2 
 5. Aleksejevs, Liepaja6.9 
 6. Selakovs, VEF R.6.3 
 7. Veselovs, Valmiera6.0 
 8. Cavars, Barons6.0 
 9. Piternieks, LU5.9 
 10. Dilevka, Turiba5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Dairis BERTANS
  VEF Riga
  (192-G/F-89)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Bertans, VEF R.4.7 
 2. Gabrans, Valmiera4.5 
 3. Strelnieks, Ventspils4.4 
 4. Willjam, Barons4.2 
 5. Carter, Ventspils4.2 
 6. Mitchell, Liepaja3.7 
 7. Bergmanis, Zemgale3.7 
 8. Gailitis, VEF R.3.5 
 9. Piternieks, LU3.2 
 10. Vaikulis, Liepaja3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Gatis JAHOVICS
  VEF Riga
  (200-F-84)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Jahovics, VEF R.2.2 
 2. Gailitis, VEF R.1.9 
 3. Strelnieks, Ventspils1.8 
 4. Cavars, Barons1.7 
 5. Gabrans, Valmiera1.7 
 6. Mitchell, Liepaja1.7 
 7. Slisans, LU1.6 
 8. Bertans, VEF R.1.6 
 9. Motivans, Turiba1.6 
 10. Rozitis, LU1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Kaspars BERZINS
  VEF Riga
  (213-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Berzins, VEF R.2.1 
 2. Rozitis, Zemgale1.9 
 3. Skirmants, Barons1.2 
 4. Beard, Liepaja1.2 
 5. Mejeris, Liepaja1.0 
 6. Kuzminskas, Ventspils0.8 
 7. Piternieks, LU0.8 
 8. Meiers, Liepaja0.8 
 9. Blaus, Ventspils0.8 
 10. Aleksejevs, Liepaja0.8 


LBL D2 Round 3 of Semi-Finals. Ventspils Augustskola reach Final - by Eurobasket News
Ventspils Aug. - Gulbene 78-63

Ventspils Augustskola prevailed in the decisive third game against Gulbene. They advanced into Final to face BAA Riga. The game was mostly controlled by Ventspils Augstskola. Gulbene managed to win third quarter 20-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ervins Jonats (198-F-91) came up with 20 points to lead the effort. Karlis Apsitis (198-F-92) added 18 points, 4 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Gundars Rauza (192-F-79) answered with 22 points for Gulbene.
gschID: 127137




LBL Round 1 of Quarter-Finals. Victories for Liepaja and Barons - by Eurobasket News
Liepaja - Zemgale 91-52

Liepaja cruised past Zemgale in the opener. The game without a history. Liepaja led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 20-of-23 free shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Liepaja outrebounded Zemgale 42-25 including a 34-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. American guard Pierce Caldwell (191-G-88, college: Incarnate World) stepped up and scored 27 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners and forward Atis Ozols (198-81) chipped in 12 points and 12 rebounds. Caldwell is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Liepaja players scored in double figures. At the losing side swingman Edgars Krumins (194-86) responded with 12 points and 8 rebounds and guard Kalvis Krumins (183-90) scored 8 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:
Zemgale: E.Krumins 12+8reb, J.Bambis 9+2reb, K.Krumins 8+3reb+2ast, J.Rozitis 6+4reb, R.Strupovics 5, S.Metra 4+4reb
Liepaja: P.Caldwell 27+5reb+4ast, A.Ozols 12+12reb+2ast, S.Buskevics 11+4reb+4ast, J.Aleksejevs 11+6reb+1ast, A.Mitchell 7+6reb+3ast, M.Meiers 7
gschID: 127237


Valmiera - Barons 70-94

Barons stunned Valmiera on the road to step closer to LBL semis. The game was mostly controlled by Barons. Valmiera managed to win second period 24-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 29-of-33 free shots (87.9 percent) during the game. Barons had a 27-16 advantage in offensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Valmiera helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Agnis Cavars (198-86) stepped up and scored 21 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and American guard Derek Willjam (185-85, college: SMU) chipped in 18 points and 4 assists. Barons' coach Uvis Helmanis felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side the former international guard Raimonds Gabrans (188-84) responded with 21 points and 5 assists and guard Janis Kaufmanis (185-89) scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Valmiera: R.Gabrans 21+3reb+5ast, J.Kaufmanis 15+8reb+2ast, P.Veselovs 14+5reb, M.Ziedins 13+2reb+1ast, V.Iljins 4+3reb+1ast, J.Graudins 3
Barons: A.Cavars 21+6reb, D.Willjam 18+1reb+4ast, I.Bankevics 12+3reb+2ast, D.Sweetney 12+4reb, K.Pishchalnikov 12+6reb, I.Bergmanis 9+6reb+3ast
gschID: 127236




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


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Fadi KHATIB
  Champville
  (199-F-79)
  Avg: 26.7
 1. Khatib, Champville26.7 
 2. Warner, Byblos26.5 
 3. Johnson, Moutahed22.8 
 4. Cage, Hoops22.8 
 5. Johnson, Al Riyadi21.1 
 6. Shannon, Anibal20.9 
 7. Bangura, Anibal20.7 
 8. Youngblood, Champ.20.1 
 9. Dawson, Chabab20.1 
 10. Byrd, Hoops20.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  Al Riyadi
  (218-C-78)
  Avg: 14.3
 1. Woods, Al Riyadi14.3 
 2. Warner, Byblos13.1 
 3. Cox, Champville12.9 
 4. Dawson, Chabab12.5 
 5. Shannon, Anibal11.7 
 6. Payne, Moutahed11.2 
 7. Watkins, Sagesse10.8 
 8. Thompson, Sagesse10.7 
 9. Battles, Antranik10.6 
 10. Byrd, Hoops10.6 
Assists Per Game
 Willie BANNISTER
  Antranik
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 7
 1. Bannister, Antranik7.0 
 2. Johnson, Moutahed6.8 
 3. Mason, Byblos6.7 
 4. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi6.0 
 5. Akl, Anibal5.2 
 6. Clemons, Chabab4.9 
 7. Barada, Byblos4.6 
 8. Khatib, Champville4.2 
 9. Fahed, Sagesse4.1 
 10. Warner, Byblos3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Enique CLEMONS
  Al Ahli
  (180-G-80)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Clemons, Chabab3.2 
 2. Johnson, Moutahed2.8 
 3. Mahmoud, Al Riyadi2.4 
 4. Byrd, Hoops2.3 
 5. Bannister, Antranik2.3 
 6. Youngblood, Champ.2.3 
 7. Bangura, Anibal2.2 
 8. Mason, Byblos2.2 
 9. Johnson, Al Riyadi2.1 
 10. Lakiss, Chabab1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Darnell COX
  Champville
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Cox, Champville3.7 
 2. Woods, Al Riyadi2.3 
 3. Thompson, Sagesse1.6 
 4. Byrd, Hoops1.4 
 5. Watkins, Sagesse1.4 
 6. Hamdar, Hoops1.3 
 7. Warner, Byblos1.3 
 8. Kanaan, Antranik1.2 
 9. Shannon, Anibal1.2 
 10. Payne, Moutahed1.0 


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


Stats Leaders - LKL
Points Per Game
 Vilmantas DILYS
  Perlas
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 16.4
 1. Dilys, Naglis-Adakris16.4 
 2. Dimsa, Nevezis16.0 
 3. Kieza, Juventus16.0 
 4. Dilys, Perlas15.5 
 5. Vasylius, Neptunas15.1 
 6. Alijevas, Nevezis14.9 
 7. Juskevicius, Rudupis14.2 
 8. Leonavicius, Techa.14.1 
 9. Sirvydis, Sakalai14.0 
 10. Ruikis, Neptunas13.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Kieza, Juventus10.4 
 2. Janisius, Alytus A.9.9 
 3. Sarakauskas, Siauliai9.4 
 4. Valanciunas, Lietuv.8.0 
 5. Klimavicius, Zalgiris7.2 
 6. Dimsa, Nevezis7.1 
 7. Dilys, Perlas6.6 
 8. Vasylius, Neptunas6.5 
 9. Jankunas, Zalgiris6.5 
 10. Adomavicius, Alytus A.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Rolandas ALIJEVAS
  Nevezis
  (192-G-85)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Alijevas, Nevezis5.9 
 2. Broadus, Siauliai5.1 
 3. Rinkevicius, Techasas5.1 
 4. Juskevicius, Rudupis4.7 
 5. El-Amin, Lietuvos.4.4 
 6. Viskontas, Perlas4.4 
 7. Janavicius, Siauliai4.2 
 8. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris4.1 
 9. Collins, Zalgiris4.0 
 10. Dainys, Rudupis3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Valdas VASYLIUS
  Neptunas
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Vasylius, Neptunas2.1 
 2. Juskevicius, Rudupis2.0 
 3. Lowe, Naglis-Adakris1.9 
 4. Leonavicius, Techa.1.9 
 5. Rinkevicius, Techasas1.9 
 6. Alijevas, Nevezis1.7 
 7. Razutis, Naglis-A.1.7 
 8. Valukonis, Techasas1.7 
 9. Jasikevicius, Aiscai K.1.6 
 10. Birgelis, Alytus A.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Deng GAI
  Naglis-Adakris
  (206-F-82)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Gai, Naglis-Adakris2.9 
 2. Begic, Zalgiris2.4 
 3. Valanciunas, Lietuv.2.0 
 4. Silinskis, Techasas1.7 
 5. Cresnar, Nevezis1.5 
 6. Volkus, Techasas1.0 
 7. Klimavicius, Zalgiris0.9 
 8. Zelionis, Rudupis0.8 
 9. Cepukaitis, Juven.0.8 
 10. Jankauskas, Rudupis0.8 


Stats Leaders - NKL
Points Per Game
 Vidmantas SRAGAUSKIS
  LKKA-Atletas
  (200-F-86)
  Avg: 22
 1. Sragauskis, LKKA-.22.0 
 2. Petraitis, Delikate.21.6 
 3. Vingelis, LKKA-.19.6 
 4. Tarvydas, Puntukas18.3 
 5. Jurkus, Silute17.9 
 6. Mineikis, Radviliskis16.7 
 7. Cizauskas, Zalgir.16.4 
 8. Jacevicius, Perla.16.2 
 9. Girdziunas, Nafta U.15.7 
 10. Sebeziovas, Triobe.15.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Egidijus MOCKEVICIUS
  Akademija
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 10.4
 1. Mockevicius, Akade.10.4 
 2. Mockevicius, Akade.10.4 
 3. Pikalavicius, Delika.10.2 
 4. Oladimeji, Radvilis.9.4 
 5. Warren, Mazeikiai8.8 
 6. Brusokas, Perla.8.5 
 7. Nedzinskas, Silute8.5 
 8. Mineikis, Radviliskis7.7 
 9. Kaupaitis, Silute7.4 
 10. Pupinis, Erelita7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Harrison, Mazeikiai6.9 
 2. Vingelis, LKKA-.5.2 
 3. Sapiega, Erelita5.0 
 4. Kuklierius, Radvilis.4.8 
 5. Cizauskas, Zalgir.4.6 
 6. Leonard, Pieno Z.4.6 
 7. Kutra, Delikatesas4.2 
 8. Virsilas, Silute4.1 
 9. Zymantas, Nafta U.4.0 
 10. Semaska, Perla.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Bryan HARRISON
  Mazeikiai
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Harrison, Mazeikiai2.7 
 2. Metelica, Erelita2.6 
 3. Zymantas, Nafta U.2.5 
 4. Petraitis, Delikate.2.5 
 5. Vileita, Pieno Z.2.3 
 6. Kutra, Delikatesas2.2 
 7. Radavicius, Meres.2.2 
 8. Vasiliauskas, Triobe.2.2 
 9. Pauliukenas, Akade.2.2 
 10. Pauliukenas, Akade.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Egidijus MOCKEVICIUS
  Akademija
  (204-C-92)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Mockevicius, Akade.2.5 
 2. Mockevicius, Akade.2.5 
 3. Urbonas, LK.2.4 
 4. Jucikas, Delikatesas1.8 
 5. Kupsas, Zalgir.1.7 
 6. Oladimeji, Radvilis.1.5 
 7. Pupinis, Erelita1.3 
 8. Ramanauskas, Sil.1.1 
 9. Ramasauskas, ABRO-.1.0 
 10. Warren, Mazeikiai0.9 


Pieno Zvaigzdes clinch NKL title - by Eurobasket News
Pieno Zvaigzdes - Mazeikiai 77:68

Pieno Zvaigzdes celebrated the first ever NKL title. They held off Mazeikiai in the championship clash at Garliavos Sports Complex in Kaunas. Darrick Leonard (188-G-84, college: Aurora) came up with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists to lead Pieno Zvaizdes. Rimas Endrijaitis team won the regular season with just one loss and never slowed down in the playoffs. They looked confident in the final as well. Pieno Zvaigzdes claimed a 21:14 lead after ten minutes. They kept their opponents at bay posting an 8-point buffer at the interval. Mazeikiai tried to change the flow of the game in the third term. They went on a 22:12 run to surge ahead. But Pieno Zvaigzes retained the lead in the fourth quarter. They fired 26 points and cruised to the victory at the end. Zam Fredrick (183-G-86, college: S.Carolina) provided 14 points, while Darius Griskenas (194-F-84) added 13 points in the win. Jason Warren (201-F/G-84, college: Missouri Western) answered with 25 points, 13 boards and 5 assists for Mazeikiai. Dainius Vaitelis (201-F-86) and Marijus Norkus (197-G/F-85) had 10 points each in the loss.

Pieno Zvaigzdes: Darrick Leonard 20, Zam Fredrick 14, Darius Griskenas 13
Mazeikiai: Jason Warren 25+13 boards, Dainius Vaitelis 10, Marijus Norkus 10


LKL Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas - Perlas 83-73

Lietuvos Rytas earned the first win against Perlas. The game was mostly controlled by Lietuvos Rytas. Perlas managed to win second period 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Lietuvos Rytas shot 61.2 percent from the field and made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Serbian-Montenegrin center Milko Bjelica (207-84, agency: Beo Basket) fired 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Bosnian forward Kenan Bajramovic (206-81, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 12 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Eimantas Bendzius (203-90) produced 19 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and forward Vilmantas Dilys (208-87) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five Lietuvos Rytas and four Perlas players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Perlas: E.Bendzius 19+5reb, V.Dilys 16+5reb+1ast, E.Kairys 13+1reb, L.Samenas 13+1reb+5ast, S.Kulvietis 6+3reb+1ast, A.Viskontas 6+3reb+5ast
Lietuvos Rytas: M.Bjelica 15+6reb+1ast, K.Bajramovic 12+8reb+2ast, B.Newley 11+5reb, A.Rasic 10+1reb+3ast, M.Gecevicius 10+2reb+6ast, D.Strawberry 10+1reb+3ast
gschID: 126971


Zalgiris - Neptunas 96-61

Zalgiris continued their undefeated run in the LKL season as they cruised past Neptunas in the opener. The game without a history. Zalgiris led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Neptunas' 30. They outrebounded Neptunas 46-29 including a 21-10 advantage in offensive rebounds. Neptunas was plagued by 34 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Tadas Klimavicius (204-82, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 12 points and 13 rebounds. The former international forward Paulius Jankunas (205-84, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 12 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four Zalgiris players scored in double figures. Zalgiris' coach Ilias Zouros felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. The former international forward Valdas Vasylius (203-83, college: ODU) answered with 17 points and 8 rebounds and American center Luke Bonner (213-85, college: Massachusetts) added 4 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Neptunas.
Top scorers:
Neptunas: V.Vasylius 17+8reb, M.Mazeika 12+1ast, M.Ruikis 8+1reb+2ast, J.Zurna 6+3reb+1ast, A.Brunins 5+4reb, D.Heiman 5+2reb+2ast
Zalgiris: M.Pocius 12+1reb+3ast, P.Jankunas 12+5reb+2ast, T.Klimavicius 12+13reb+1ast, B.Marjanovic 10+8reb, T.Plaisted 8+2reb+1ast, M.Brown 8+3reb+1ast
gschID: 126972


Rudupis - Techasas 76-62

Rudupis prevailed against Techasas in the quarterfinal series opener. The game without a history. Rudupis led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. It was a very good performance for forward Vytenis Lipkevicius (198-89) who helped to win the game recording 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Justinas Sinica (203-85) contributed with 13 points for the winners. Four Rudupis players scored in double figures. Guard Tomas Rinkevicius (178-78) answered with 12 points and the former international forward Egidijus Dimsa added 12 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Techasas.
Top scorers:
Techasas: E.Dimsa 12+5reb, T.Rinkevicius 12+4reb+3ast, G.Leonavicius 9+5reb+1ast, D.Silinskis 7+1reb, A.Aleksandrovas 7+5reb, V.Volkus 7+6reb+1ast
Rudupis: J.Sinica 13+4reb, A.Juskevicius 12+4reb+1ast, V.Lipkevicius 12+7reb+4ast, G.Jankauskas 11+3reb, E.Dainys 9+3reb+2ast, G.Orelikas 9+3reb+1ast
gschID: 126969


Siauliai - Juventus 94-105

Juventus shocked Siauliai away from home surging ahead in the series. Juventus made 22-of-27 charity shots (81.5 percent) during the game. It was a great shooting night for Juventus especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. Siauliai was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a very good performance for the former international forward Marius Prekevicius (196-F-84, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Florida) who helped to win the game recording 24 points. The former international forward Aurimas Kieza (202-82, college: Hofstra, agency: Players Group) contributed with 21 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Center Vytautas Sarakauskas (203-82) answered with a double-double by scoring 23 points and 17 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) and guard Darius Gvezdauskas (192-88) added 15 points in the effort for Siauliai. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Siauliai: V.Sarakauskas 23+17reb+1ast, M.Zukauskas 17+2reb, D.Gvezdauskas 15+2reb+2ast, Z.Janavicius 13+1reb+4ast, D.Weaver 11+5reb+2ast, R.Edvinas 7+3reb
Juventus: M.Prekevicius 24+4reb+2ast, A.Kieza 21+7reb+1ast, A.Vasiliauskas 13+3reb+1ast, V.Cepukaitis 13+5reb+1ast, G.Maceina 11+3reb+4ast, M.Pociukonis 9+2reb+1ast
gschID: 126970




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


White number one in Mexico for round 22 - by Eurobasket News
American guard Davin White (186-G-81) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Cananea, receiving a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 22.
The 29-year old player was the main contributor (37 points, six rebounds and seven assists) to his team's victory, helping them to crush Tijuana (#8, 10-12) with 19-point margin 120-101. Cananea maintains the 2nd position in Mexican CIBACOPA. They are still close to the very top. Cananea would have been even better if they kept winning the games like in the last round. They have a solid 18-4 record. In the team's last game White had a remarkable 81.8% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Cananea, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Former Cal State - Northridge star has very solid stats this year. White is league's best scorer averaging so far 28.5ppg. White is in league's top in assists (3rd best: 4.1apg) and averages impressive 1.3bpg and 63.6% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Cyrus Tate (203-F/C-85, agency: Edge Sports) of Tijuana. Tate had a very good evening with a double-double of 40 points and 15 rebounds. Bad luck as Tijuana lost that game 101-120 to the higher-ranked Cananea (#2, 18-4). This loss caused Tijuana to drop to 8th position in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-12 record. Tate is one of the most experienced players at Tijuana and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 24.3ppg (#6). He also registered 8.5 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Marcus Moore (198-G-80) of Culiacan (#3). Moore got into 30-points club by scoring 32 points in the last round. He went also for six rebounds and four assists. He was a key player of Culiacan, leading his team to a 85-81 win against the lower-ranked Tepic (#9, 4-18). Culiacan needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 9 lost games. The season just started for Moore as he played only first game. But it already looks like he can be team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Derek Thomas (193-F-84) of Cananea - 38 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Jerome Habel (208-F-85) of Guaymas - 22 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Marquise Gray (206-C-86) of Hermosillo - 25 points and 8 rebounds
7. William Funn (188-G-82) of Guasave - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 11 assists
8. Terrence Thomas (198-F-80) of Hermosillo - 7 points, 12 rebounds and 9 assists
9. Ira Brown (193-F-82) of Tepic - 24 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Detrick White (184-G-76) of Los Mochis - 28 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists

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

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Davin WHITE
  Cananea
  (186-G-81)
  Avg: 28.5
 1. White, Cananea28.5 
 2. Gale, Mexicali28.3 
 3. Sowell, Culiacan27.3 
 4. Brown, Tepic25.3 
 5. Sims, Los Mochis24.3 
 6. Tate, Tijuana24.3 
 7. White, Los Mochis24.2 
 8. Gabbidon, Tijuana23.5 
 9. Thomas, Cananea23.2 
 10. Barrett, Guasave23.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ryan MOSS
  Nogales
  (200-F/C-74)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Moss, Nogales10.3 
 2. Angounou, Guasave9.5 
 3. Broxsie, Nogales9.3 
 4. Brown, Tepic9.3 
 5. Avila, Culiacan9.1 
 6. Malloy, Los Mochis8.9 
 7. Shipley, Tijuana8.6 
 8. Tate, Tijuana8.5 
 9. Rougeau, Culiacan7.6 
 10. Gabbidon, Tijuana7.3 
Assists Per Game
 William FUNN
  Guasave
  (188-G-82)
  Avg: 7.5
 1. Funn, Guasave7.5 
 2. Watson, Tijuana6.0 
 3. White, Los Mochis5.9 
 4. Thomas, Hermosillo5.0 
 5. Marentes, Guaymas4.5 
 6. Nungaray, Guaymas4.4 
 7. Meza, Culiacan4.3 
 8. Monreal, Hermosillo4.2 
 9. White, Cananea4.1 
 10. Ford, Tepic4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Derek THOMAS
  Cananea
  (193-F-84)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Thomas, Cananea2.1 
 2. White, Cananea2.0 
 3. Brown, Nogales1.9 
 4. Matthews, Nogales1.7 
 5. Funn, Guasave1.6 
 6. Rougeau, Culiacan1.6 
 7. White, Los Mochis1.5 
 8. Gale, Mexicali1.5 
 9. Sowell, Culiacan1.4 
 10. Webb, Culiacan1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Kevin SOWELL
  Culiacan
  (190-G-81)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Sowell, Culiacan3.2 
 2. Thomas, Hermosillo2.9 
 3. Webb, Culiacan2.6 
 4. Gale, Mexicali2.5 
 5. Tate, Tijuana2.4 
 6. Habel, Guaymas2.4 
 7. Brown, Tepic2.3 
 8. Brown, Tepic2.2 
 9. Matthews, Nogales2.2 
 10. Shipley, Tijuana2.2 


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


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.City T.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 27.9
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.27.9 
 2. James, Miami Heat26.7 
 3. Bryant, LA Lakers25.4 
 4. Stoudemire, New Y.25.3 
 5. Wade, Miami Heat25.3 
 6. Rose, Chicago B.25.3 
 7. Anthony, Denver N.25.2 
 8. Ellis, Golde S.24.1 
 9. Martin, Houston R.23.5 
 10. Howard, Orlando M.23.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin LOVE
  Minnesota T.
  (208-C-88)
  Avg: 15.2
 1. Love, Minnesota T.15.2 
 2. Howard, Orlando M.14.2 
 3. Randolph, Memph.12.2 
 4. Griffin, LA Clipp.12.1 
 5. Bogut, Milwauke.11.1 
 6. Humphries, New J.10.4 
 7. Noah, Chicago B.10.4 
 8. Camby, Portland TB10.4 
 9. Gasol, LA Lakers10.1 
 10. Lee, Golde S.9.8 
Assists Per Game
 Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-G-74)
  Avg: 11.4
 1. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.4 
 2. Rondo, Boston C.11.1 
 3. Paul, N.Orleans H.9.8 
 4. Williams, Utah Jazz9.7 
 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.8.1 
 10. Rose, Chicago B.7.7 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.4 
 2. Ellis, Golde S.2.1 
 3. Rondo, Boston C.2.1 
 4. Westbrook, Oklah..1.9 
 5. Allen, Memphis G.1.8 
 6. Felton, New Y.1.8 
 7. Conley, Memphis G.1.8 
 8. Wall, Washington W.1.8 
 9. Gay, Memphis G.1.7 
 10. Kidd, Dallas M.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Andrew BOGUT
  Milwaukee B.
  (212-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 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 Lakers2.0 
 6. Milicic, Minnesota T.2.0 
 7. Jefferson, Utah J.1.9 
 8. Stoudemire, New Y.1.9 
 9. Duncan, San A.1.9 
 10. Okafor, N.Orlean.1.8 


NBA fines Blazers Coach Nate McMillan - by Eurobasket News
The NBA has fined Portland Trail Blazers Coach Nate McMillan .

The veteran coach will have to pay $35,000 to the league because of his comments to reporters following Portlands 89-81 loss to Dallas over the weekend.

McMillan was critical of the officiating in the game that saw Dallas taking 29 free throws to only 13 for Portland.

The free throws -- I just dont get that, McMillan said. Portlands coach said the officials seemed to call a lot of touch fouls in the fourth quarter and believes that changed the momentum of the game.

Mavs star Dirk Nowitzki had 13 free throws in the fourth quarter alone, helping lead Dallas to a game one victory in the playoff series.

The teams meet in Dallas for Game 2 on Tuesday night.

Courtesy of www.kptv.com

Shaq officially out for Game 2 - by Eurobasket News
The Celtics officially ruled center Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) out for Tuesday's game against the New York Knicks after Celtics team doctor Brian McKeon told the team not to bring O'Neal out onto the floor for today's practice.

Celtics coach Doc Rivers last night had left open the possibility that O'Neal might practice and play in Tuesday's game. Today he sang a different tune.

'The only assumption I'm going on is the one that he's not playing in Game 2,' said Rivers. 'He's got a different brace now and we've got two [days off] after Game 2 that he can practice, hopefully. If he doesn't practice, at least if he could do something on the floor with us, then we can make that evaluation.'

Jermaine O'Neal started at center for the Celtics Monday night and went 6 for 6 from the field, adding four blocks.

Courtesy of http://articles.boston.com

Dwight Howard wins defensive player of the year for third consecutive year - by Eurobasket News
For the third consecutive year, Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard (6'10''-C/F-85) is named the NBAs defensive player of the year.

While Ben Wallace and Dikembe Mutombo each won the award four times, Howard is the first to win it three years in a row.

Youve got to be very smart to be considered a great defensive player, Howard said, according to USA Today. Youve got to know your opponent. Youve got to know the other teams offensive schemes very well. For me, I just try to learn the other teams plays just as well as I know my plays. But it takes a lot of heart. Youve got to be able to want to stop players, stop teams. Its very tough to play defense.

Fox Sports reports that Howard won the top honors by receiving 114 of the 120 first place votes.

Howard finished the season by averaging 14.1 rebounds per game and was placed third in NBA with 4.0 offensive rebounds. He also finished third in the league with 186 blocked shots.

Courtesy of www.sportsrageous.com

Melo Carries Knicks but Fall Just Short - by Daniel Gibson
BOSTON---Chauncey Billups (6'3''-G-76, college: Colorado) watched game 2 in a suit while his New York Knicks teammates battled the Boston Celtics.

The New York Knicks eventually fell 96-93, but the game was back and forth until the final seconds.

With Billups sidelined suffering from a knee injury the New York Knicks were already at a disadvantage from the jump ball.

To add to their problems starting power forward and All-Star Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) went out of the game in the second period and couldn't return. The New York Knicks had lost their previous 10 games at the TD Garden and game 11 was off to a difficult start.

Stoudemire was sidelined with back spasms but fellow All-Star and Knicks new-comer Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) put the team on his back and carried them throughout the game.

The Celtics crowd was on the edge of their seats as Anthony put on the type of playoff performance that builds legacies.

Anthony played 44 minutes, scored a career playoff-high 42 points, grabbed 17 rebounds, and dished out six assists.

At times Anthony was the only offensive threat on the floor as his teammates struggled to make shots.

The notorious Celtics defense tried their best to shut him down by sending double teams at him from different angles and defending him with speed, strength, and length.

It didn't really matter what the Celtics did because Anthony was in the zone and determined to make amends for his perceived poor decision making down the stretch of game one.

He scored the New York Knicks first seven points of the fourth quarter and during one stretch he scored 18 of the teams 20 points.

Anthony showed the world why the New York Knicks were so eager to get a deal done before the trade deadline to get him and willing to give up young talent.

He is a rare player that has no offensive limitations and when his mind is set on it he can be a fierce defender as well.

Anthony shot 14-for-30 from the field, 4-for-8 from three-point range, and 10-11 from the free-throw line. He has the power to get to any spot on the floor, the speed to blow past defenders, the ball handling ability to create his own shot, and he can pass and set up teammates.

He is a match up nightmare for defenders. The Celtics know that they dodged a bullet by escaping Boston with a 2-0 series lead.

The New York Knicks are eager for game 3 as they will be in front of a raucous crowd excited to welcome playoff basketball back to New York after a seven year absence. They are anxious for a win as the New York Knicks havent won a playoff game since 00 against the Toronto Raptors.

Stoudemire plans to play and Billups may be available as well.


Heat roll to 2-0 lead over 76ers, 94-73 - by Eurobasket News
LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) outscored Philadelphia's entire starting five in the first half by himself.

So did Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech).

So did Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette).

And that pretty much tells the tale of a night the 76ers would rather forget.

No comeback required for the Miami Heat this time. They went wire-to-wire on the lead, and moved two wins from advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

James scored 29 points, Bosh had his second straight double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds, and Miami took a 2-0 series lead with a 94-73 victory over the abysmally shooting 76ers - who managed their second-lowest playoff scoring total in the last 56 years - on Monday night.

'It was a really complete game for us at both ends of the floor,' James said.

Showing no signs of the migraine that he battled Sunday, Wade scored 14 points for Miami, now 17-3 in its last 20 games and halfway to winning its first playoff series since the 2006 NBA finals.

'I'm feeling a lot better,' said Wade, who wasn't able to eat Sunday and was very low-energy at times before Monday's game. 'I lost a lot of weight tonight ... but I think I did my job, to come out there and help my team get a win.'

Thaddeus Young (6'8''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech) scored 18 points and Evan Turner (6'7''-G/F-88, college: Ohio St.) added 15 for the 76ers, whose starters were outscored 76-29 by the Heat's first-string. Philadelphia shot 34 percent for the game, and after getting 42 points in the paint in Game 1, were held to 24 in that department Monday.

'We've had good defensive performances,' Bosh said, 'but I think today was our best of the season.'

The 76ers find themselves needing to buck some serious history. Miami has never lost a series after winning the first two games (6-0), and the Philadelphia franchise is winless in 16 tries after falling into an 0-2 postseason hole. And then there's this - only 14 teams have won after losing the first two games of a best-of-seven NBA series.

'If they're playing great, they're a better team,' Sixers coach Doug Collins said. 'OK? If they're playing on top of their game, they're a better team. I mean, they won 58, we won 41. That doesn't mean that we aren't going to play and compete and fight. But when they come out tonight and defend the way they did ... it's going to be very difficult for us to beat them.'

It was Philadelphia's second-lowest playoff point total since 1955, the only exception coming in a 79-68 loss to Orlando in 1999. And the 76ers won that series.

Philadelphia made 15 of its first 24 shots in Game 1, a 63 percent clip. Since then: 47 of 140, 34 percent.

'You've got to give them credit,' said Sixers guard Andre Iguodala, who has nine points on 4-for-15 shooting in the series.

Wade played 34 minutes, despite spending Sunday bedridden in a darkened room fighting off a migraine that he likened to a 'nightmare.' He had no outward ill effects, shooting 4 for 11 with six rebounds.

Instead, it's the 76ers who spent much of Monday looking pained.

'He controlled the game,' James said of Wade. 'He had two people on him so he just got off the ball and let other guys make things happen and it's good to have him on the court than in a suit.'

Game 3 is Thursday night in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia shot only 26 percent in the first half, a record for a Heat playoff opponent. The 76ers' starters were outscored 41-9 in the opening 24 minutes, and unlike their last two meetings, never put a scare into Miami. Philadelphia had a 16-point lead in the teams' final regular-season matchup, a 14-point lead in Game 1, but simply couldn't get rolling Monday.

The 76ers didn't even have a starter reach double figures until 3:49 remained in the third quarter, when Jrue Holiday made a 3-pointer to get to 10 points. By then, James had 23, Bosh had 15 and Wade 12 - and the Heat led 68-50.

The margin kept growing from there, all the way to 28 at one point. A clearly frustrated Collins got a technical with 1:56 left and the game decided, the Heat holding a 91-67 lead.

'We just have to continue to fight,' Sixers guard Lou Williams said. 'Obviously we're dealing with a team that has a lot of guys that can score the basketball. ... They did what they were supposed to do, which was come out and defend the home court for two games and send us back to Philly with a sour taste in our mouths.'

It was over fairly early. James said he wanted to be more aggressive in Game 2 than he was in the series opener, and apparently that message got to all corners of the Heat locker room.

Philadelphia was within 28-20 midway through the second quarter, but a 21-11 Heat run to end the half took care of that. James had consecutive baskets, the second of them a highlight-quality one-handed dunk off a high alley-oop lob from Mario Chalmers for a 37-23 lead, and Miami was off and running. That play was started by two blocks by Joel Anthony, who ignited the Heat defense all night.

'He's awesome,' Bosh said.

The lead was 49-31 by halftime and 75-52 after the third quarter, in which Philadelphia shot only 33 percent but raised its percentage for the game to 28.

'Our energy tonight was much better,' Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said, 'from beginning to end.'

NOTES: James has won 13 straight times when facing Philadelphia, the last loss coming Dec. 15, 2007, when he was with Cleveland. ... Wade sent out a Tweet in the afternoon, thanking fans for the support as he dealt with the migraines. ... The 76ers are 0-5 against the Heat this season.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Game 2 Recap: (1) Bulls (2-0) vs. (8) Pacers (0-2) - by Daniel Gibson
CHICAGO---Down the stretch the Indiana Pacers had to be feeling some dj vu as the Chicago Bulls squeezed out another close victory to pull ahead 2-0 in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals.

The Bulls won 96-90 and Kyle Korver (6'7''-F-81, college: Creighton) hit another huge three-pointer off of a double team in the final minutes for the second straight game.

Danny Granger led the Pacers with 19 points, four assists, and two rebounds. A.J. Price (6'2''-G-86, college: Connecticut) had 13 points but they were the only two Pacers to reach double figures.

Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) led the Bulls with 36 point, eight rebounds, and six assists and Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke) avoided foul trouble and recorded a double-double with 18 points and 16 rebounds.

The Pacers defense made Rose earn each point again as he was fouled hard on drives and double teamed on the perimeter.

Rose faced multiple defenders each possession but the Pacers rookie Paul George (6'8''-G/F-90, agency: Priority Sports, college: Fresno St.) had the difficult assignment of checking him for most of the night.

Rose was forced into six turnovers and shot 11-for-25 from the floor. Pacers coach Frank Vogel was pleased with the rookies effort.

Hes a rookie, hes a gifted defender, said Vogel. Im very, very proud of his effort tonight.

Game two got off to a similar start as game one. Throughout the first half the teams traded baskets and leads. Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) was forced to the bench late in the first quarter with two fouls.

The biggest play of the half for the Pacers came with a little over two minutes left when Darren Collison (6'0''-G-87, college: UCLA) twisted his ankle on a the baseline after converting a fast break layup. He was unable to return to the game.

The Pacers went into the half ahead, 47-44 but the momentum was shifting in favor of the Bulls.

The Bulls were on a 16-4 run through the end of the second quarter and the start of the third. They took the lead at 52-49 after a Rose three-pointer.

The score was tied at the end of the quarter at 67-67 after T.J. Ford (5'10''-G-83, college: Texas) banked in a three-pointer from beyond half court as time expired.

The fourth quarter had both teams making runs. The Pacers had a 13-4 run from the end of the third quarter into the fourth quarter. The Bulls responded with a 7-0 run to go up by five points late.

Price was fouled by Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88, college: Memphis) on a three-point attempt late and made the three free-throws to pull within two, but the Bulls knocked down their last 14 consecutive free-throws and kept the game out of reach.

The Bulls defended their home court by winning both games but the Pacers battled to the very end each time. The series shifts to Indiana for game three Thursday night.
Kyle Korver

Zach Randolph signing 4-year, $71-million contract extension - by Eurobasket News
One potential Detroit Pistons free-agent target is off the market. Former Michigan State star Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) is sticking with the Memphis Grizzlies four more years.

Randolph said today hell sign a four-year extension with Memphis, a deal the 29-year-old said was in the works long before he led the eighth-seeded Grizzlies to their first playoff victory, 16 seasons after the franchise debuted in Vancouver.

ESPN.com reported that the contract is worth $71 million.

He said he agreed to the extension after the front office assured him that re-signing Marc Gasol, 26, was next.

The big and bruising forward beat up the Spurs for 25 points and 14 rebounds in Game 1 and teamed with 7-footer Gasol to show top-seeded San Antonio the daunting frontcourt challenge that lies ahead.

Our goal is to shock people, Randolph said. I aint going to say just win one game.

Between himself, Gasol, forward Rudy Gay and guard Mike Conley, Randolph sees his extended contract as the start of building a championship contender.

I definitely think its realistic, Randolph said. You see where we came come from, and where were at.

The contract extension is a validation for Randolph, who has been traded three times and has spent two years in Memphis trying to shed his reputation as a hot-tempered troublemaker.

Randolph was considered a target for the Pistons because of his development and his ties to the Midwest. (Hes from Indiana.) He also shares an agent (Raymond Brothers) with Pistons guard Ben Gordon.

Courtesy of www.freep.com

Adelman won't return as Rockets coach - by Eurobasket News
After four days of talks, some that were close to bringing Rick Adelman back to the Rockets' bench, general manager Daryl Morey called him a 'Hall of Fame coach'. He also showed Adelman the door. Adelman was happy to take it.

Adelman, who led the Rockets to their only playoff series victory in the last 14 years and a franchise-record 22-game winning streak, agreed to step down Monday, a decision described as mutual.

After numerous discussions and careful consideration with coach Adelman, we have mutually agreed to part ways, Morey said in a statement. It has been a privilege and an honor to work with and learn from Rick during these past four years. He is a Hall of Fame coach who earned the respect and admiration of our entire organization during his time here.

In four seasons with the Rockets, Adelman had a 193-135 record, the best winning percentage (.588) of any coach in franchise history. He moved to eighth in NBA history in career coaching wins with 945.

After consecutive seasons in which the Rockets failed to reach the playoffs, Adelman and Morey were unable to reach agreements on several issues. Adelman had repeatedly indicated he would seek more of a voice in personnel decisions. The team is expected to seek a greater emphasis on player development and likely will want a coach who will more readily embrace the organizations analytics-oriented approach.

The Rockets two coaching hires under owner Leslie Alexander since the departure of Rudy Tomjanovich Adelman and Jeff Van Gundy were coaches who had taken teams to the NBA Finals. But the present search will immediately include assistant coaches. Rockets assistants Elston Turner and Jack Sikma and former Rockets player Mario Elie, who has been an assistant with the Kings, Warriors and Spurs, will interview for the position, according to a person with knowledge of the process.

Mike Brown, a former Coach of the Year who took Cleveland to the Finals, is also considered a top candidate.



Wants to keep coaching

Adelman, 64 and a veteran of 19-plus seasons as an NBA coach, had expressed ambivalence about remaining in coaching but said last week that he has not lost his desire to coach. He had been openly frustrated with decision-making that led to three trades - over his objections - that seemed designed to aid future seasons.

I have enjoyed my time in Houston over these past four seasons, Adelman said in a statement released by the Rockets. We accomplished quite a bit, despite overcoming numerous obstacles during the past few years. I especially enjoyed coaching this group of players the past two seasons. Despite difficult circumstances, they never gave in, and they never quit. It was a joy coming in every day and working with such a group of dedicated players and coaches. I wish them all the best.

Last week, however, Adelman expressed frustration with his working relationship with the Rockets front office.

You cannot succeed in this league unless everybody is on the same page, he said. You may not agree with everything together. But you have to be on the same page, and you have to have each others back, or the players they sense it. They know it when there is a disconnect. Frankly, I would say in the last month and a half, since the trade (deadline deals of Shane Battier and Aaron Brooks), people have gone their way, and were here to fight the battle.

When its all good, its pretty easy. When its not all good, its even more important that you have communication and an interchange that is pretty consistent day in, day out.

The Rockets beat the Trail Blazers in the 2008-09 playoffs and then pushed the Lakers to seven games in the Western Conference semifinals. But Yao Ming was injured in Game 3 of that series and played just five games in the two seasons since. Rather than coach a team led by Yao and Tracy McGrady, who played just 72 games together in Adelmans tenure, Adelman oversaw the transition of the franchise from the Yao and McGrady era to a team built around Adelmans motion-based offense.



Fast finish not enough

This season, the Rockets went 17-8 after the All-Star break to get back into the chase for a playoff spot before fading late. They became the first team since the Suns in 1970-71 and 1971-72 to have consecutive seasons with winning records but no playoff appearances.

Adelman had said he was surprised not to have been offered an extension during the season. By Monday, however, his departure was expected and one decision upon which Adelman and Morey could agree.

Courtesy of www.chron.com



Guard Jason Williams retires from NBA - by Eurobasket News
Memphis Grizzlies guard Jason Williams (6'1''-G-75, college: Florida) announced his retirement from the NBA today, ending his 12-year pro career.

The 6-1, 190-pound guard leaves the NBA with career averages of 10.5 points, 2.3 rebounds and 5.9 assists in 788 games (667 starts) over 12 years (1998-08, 2009-11) with the Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat and Orlando Magic.

A member of the inaugural Memphis Grizzlies in 2001, Williams retires as the franchises all-time assists leader (2,069) and ranks in the top 10 in team annals in assists per game (7.0, 2nd), three-pointers made (500, 2nd), three-pointers attempted (1,543, 2nd), steals (372, 5th), free throw percentage (.817, 5th) and points (3,400, 10th).

The 35-year old averaged 2.0 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 10.9 minutes in 27 games this season with the Magic and Grizzlies, who signed him as a free agent on Feb. 7. The Belle, W.Va. native missed the final 17 games of the regular season due to low back soreness in what was his second stint in Memphis.

Williams won the 2006 NBA Championship with Miami, starting all 23 playoff games and averaging 9.3 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.9 assists to help the Heat capture the franchises first title.

Selected by Sacramento with the seventh overall pick of the 1998 NBA Draft, J-Will brought an exciting style and unique flare to the league before becoming one of the NBAs most steady floor generals, regularly finishing among the league leaders in assist-to-turnover ratio.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Chauncey Billups hurt in last minute, Game 2 status unknown - by Eurobasket News
Chauncey Billups (6'3''-G-76, college: Colorado) hurt his left leg in the final minute of the New York Knicks' 87-85 loss on Sunday night and wasn't sure if he would be able to play in Game 2 of their playoff series against the Boston Celtics.

Billups was replaced by Anthony Carter with 51 seconds left and the game tied at 82. The point guard said doctors told him he had strained his left knee or thigh muscle.

He said he was in a lot of pain and would receive treatment before Tuesday night's game in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference series.

After Billups left, Toney Douglas hit a 3-pointer for New York, but Kevin Garnett scored on an alley-oop for Boston and Ray Allen hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 12 seconds to play.

Courtesy of www.deseretnews.com

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


Harrison Barnes will return to North Carolina for sophomore season - by Eurobasket News
Harrison Barnes (6'8''-F) is coming back to Chapel Hill.

The North Carolina freshman announced Monday that he will return to the Tar Heels for his sophomore season -- making the Heels the early favorite to not only be the preseason No. 1 team next season but also to win the national championship.

Barnes averaged 15.7 points and 5.8 rebounds in his first season with North Carolina. He helped lead the Tar Heels to a 29-8 record and to the verge of the Final Four before they lost to Kentucky in the East Regional final in Newark.

In a statement released by the school, Barnes said that his experiences at North Carolina are something he can't put behind him just yet.

'Opportunities, both beneficial and life changing, can seem to make the next phase of my journey an easy decision. But I am a student-athlete at the University of North Carolina. I'm here to experience college life, grow as a person, receive a quality education, and be part of the greatest basketball family in college sports. The experiences I've enjoyed on and off the court will be invaluable. These experiences will help fuel my journey in the NBA and beyond.'

Barnes' announcement comes a few weeks after Tyler Zeller and John Henson also said that they would be returning to Chapel Hill next season. Along with point guard Kendall Marshall and a host of other returning players, the Tar Heels will enter the season with a target on their backs.

The freshman said he looks forward to one day reaching the NBA, but that time isn't now.

'As an 18-year old, I'm in the early stages of my life journey,' Barnes says. 'I'm honored and blessed for the chance to play in the NBA. And because of my family, teachers, passion, and work, I have the ultimate dream of one day playing and experiencing a fulfilling career in the NBA.'

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

WSU's Klay Thompson entering NBA draft, not hiring agent - by Eurobasket News
Washington State guard Klay Thompson (6'6''-G-90) announced Monday he will forgo his senior season and enter the NBA draft, and the only likely scenario in which he'd return to school is if Thompson doesn't believe he'll be a first-round pick.

Thompson said he believes he'll be a first-round pick and therefore have a guaranteed contract. But that uncertainty is why the leading scorer in the Pac-10 Conference last season is holding off on hiring an agent until he gets more feedback from NBA personnel.

'We'll see when we go to these workouts,' Thompson said. 'First round, that would be hard to turn down. ... If I feel right and my game is ready I'll make the jump.'

Thompson has until May 8 to withdraw from the draft if he changes his mind, but much of what Thompson needs to hear will likely be known before the end of April.

Thompson was a first-team all-Pac-10 selection after averaging nearly 22 points per game in his junior season in Pullman. He was in consideration for conference player of the year before Arizona's Derrick Williams pulled away late in the regular season.

But Thompson also had off-court troubles following his arrest in early March after a game on investigation of marijuana possession. Thompson was suspended for a game and made a public apology before the regular season finale against UCLA. He returned for the Pac-10 tournament and scored a tournament-record 43 points in a loss to Washington.

Washington State eventually reached the semifinals of the NIT before losing to Wichita State.

Thompson said those off-court issues had no influence on his decision to declare for the draft.

'I'm leaning toward leaving if I can get a feel for where I'm at with these workouts. There is part of me that is ready to make that next step,' Thompson said. 'I'm really excited to test the waters, but I'll be fine coming back.'

Thompson is the third major Pac-10 star to declare early for the draft, joining Washington's Isaiah Thomas and Williams. UCLA is also losing swingman Tyler Honeycutt and Malcolm Lee as early entrants.

Late last week, Washington State announced that forward DeAngelo Casto was also declaring for the draft.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

*****************************************************
  NICARAGUA   


Nicaraguan National Team for COCABA Championships 2011 - by Greg
Starting five
#s#
Vansdell Thomas
Thomas
Troy Watson
Watson
Carlos Gonzalez
Gonzalez
Servio Abea
Abea
Noel Makence
Makence
#e#5
Vansdell Thomas 176-G-86 Tiburones Nicaragua
Troy Watson 197-F/C-82 Tiburones Nicaragua
Carlos Gonzalez 177-G-80 Jaguares Nicaragua
Servio Abea 191-F-78 Tigres Nicaragua
Noel Makence 188-G-78 Tiburones Nicaragua
Manuel McKenzie 192-F-80 Jaguares Nicaragua
Windell Sloan 195-F/C-87 Tigres Nicaragua
Walter Roberts 188-F-85 Cartago Costa Rica
Roger Munoz 208-C-84 Jaguares Nicaragua
Romario Ponce 95 Los Doc's Nicaragua
Bartel Lopez 210-C-89 Tigres Nicaragua
Julio Gonzalez 194-F/C-83 Tigres Nicaragua

Angel Mallona Head Coach Jaguares Nicaragua
Jelmut Estrada Assistant


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


Standings - DStv Premier L.
DStv PBL Standings
Atlantic Conf.
1. Royal Hoopers 10-2
2. Union Bank 10-1
3. Comets 8-4
4. D.Warriors 6-6
5. Islanders 5-4
6. Police Baton 4-6
7. Chariots 0-12
8. Delta Force 1-9
Savannah Conf.
1. Kano Pillars 10-0
2. Kada Stars 8-2
3. Bauchi Nets 7-3
4. Yelwa Hawks 6-4
5. Niger Potters 4-6
6. Plateau Peaks 3-7
7. Immigration 2-8
8. Rockets 0-10


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


Halifax Rainmen exit Premier Basketball League - by Eurobasket News
On Monday night, Halifax Rainmen joined the Saint John Mill Rats in exiting the Premier Basketball League (PBL), effective immediately.

The decision to withdraw from the league was made upon the Rochester RazorSharks being crowned as PBL champions over the Lawton Fort-Sill Cavalry. The Rochester RazorSharks are owned by Dr. Severko Hrywnak, who is also the owner of the PBL.

After watching the final playoff series and analyzing the statistics, I have decided to withdraw the Halifax Rainmen from the Premier Basketball League, said Halifax Rainmen President & CEO, Andre Levingston. 'I am appalled by the officiating that took place during the playoffs, and am ashamed of the PBL's operations this season. I want nothing but the best for our city, our fans, our sponsors, and our players, and I can say with confidence that the best is no longer found in the PBL.'

Mr. Levingston says that he does not and will not recognize the Rochester RazorSharks as this season's champions, and that the Lawton Fort-Sill Cavalry are most deserving of the title.

Over the next few weeks, Mr. Levingston will continue to examine his 2011-12 league options, but is adamant that there will be professional basketball in the city of Halifax next season.

'We are very optimistic and excited about the options we are currently weighing', he said. 'Our organization will always remain committed to providing Halifax with the most professional sporting and entertainment experience minor league basketball has to offer.'

Courtesy of www.rainmenbasketball.ca

RazorSharks win PBL championship - by Eurobasket News
Rochester reclaimed the Premier Basketball League championship with an 87-84 victory at Lawton-Fort Sill in the decisive third game of the best-of-three championship series.

The RazorSharks dethroned the defending champion Cavalry with a late fourth quarter push by scoring nine of the game's last 13 points.

Keith Friel hit just one shot in nine on the night, but it was a big one. A three pointer to give Rochester an 81-80 lead it never relinquished with 2:40 left. Six free throws down the stretch sealed the victory.

Melvin Council (6'3''-G, college: Robert Morris) scored a team high 16 points including 14 of 15 from the foul line. Rochester used free throws to their advantage again. The Sharks were 32 of 43. Lawton shot 9 of 14 from the foul line.

The game was close throughout. Rochester owned a six point first quarter lead. The Cavs led by as many as seven in the third. The game was tied 66-66 heading into the final quarter. Lawton's Shawn Daniels (6'7''-C-79, college: Utah St.) scored 10 of his game high 20 points in the final quarter to keep the Cavs in it. Rochester scored just 33 second half points, but held Lawton to 30. Playing back to back nights it was a battle of attrition. The teams combined to shoot just 31% in the second half.

'It's always good,' said coach Rod Baker . 'Our guys fought hard, played hard. They played like champions.'

The 2011 PBL season didn't begin with Rochester looking like a championship team. The RazorSharks lost six of their first eight. But they persevered.

'At 2-6 we developed a certain resolve and it got us through situations like this,' said Baker. 'Sometimes you're good and you maintain. Sometimes you get better. We worked hard on getting rid of our shortcomings.'

One of those early shortcomings was free throw shooting. The Sharks won the 2011 championship at the free throw line. Throughout the postseason, Rochester's aggressive attack-the-basket style resulted in an imbalance in fouls called in their favor tahat didn't sit well with opposing teams. The RazorSharks left an arena full of unhappy Lawton fans claiming the refs were calling a one sided game.

'They aren't used to losing,' said Baker. 'It doesn't take anything away from what we accomplished.'

Rochester won the 2008 and 2009 PBL titles. Lawton won it last year. The RazorSharks win it back in 2011. In their six professional seasons of basketball, the Sharks have won four titles.

The champions return home on Tuesday with their arrival expected in the early evening. A reception is being planned with details to be announced.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com



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


Stats Leaders - 1Liga
Points Per Game
 Michal JANKOWSKI
  Polonia 2011
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Jankowski, Polonia .17.7 
 2. Pacocha, AZS S.17.5 
 3. Witos, GKS Tychy17.4 
 4. Jakobczyk, Gornik16.3 
 5. Michalak, Polonia .16.0 
 6. Ustarbowski, Gor.15.7 
 7. Lichodzijews., ISS S.15.6 
 8. Mordzak, Asec.Pro.15.3 
 9. Wojdyla, Asec.Pro.14.7 
 10. Mis, SKK Siedlce14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Wojciech ZURAWSKI
  ISS Sportino
  (199-F/C-76)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Zurawski, ISS S.9.6 
 2. Lichodzijews., ISS S.9.2 
 3. Mielczarek, AZS S.8.6 
 4. Wojdyla, Asec.Pro.8.5 
 5. Mis, SKK Siedlce7.9 
 6. Wilczek, Sokol Lancut7.7 
 7. Lisewski, MMKS D.7.7 
 8. Luszczewski, Start L.7.7 
 9. Grudzinski, Spojnia7.5 
 10. Klima, Sokol Lancut7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Rafal WOJCICKI
  SKK Siedlce
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Wojcicki, SKK S.6.3 
 2. Wilczek, Tempcold.6.1 
 3. Brek, SKK Siedlce5.9 
 4. Sikora, Start Lublin5.0 
 5. Jakobczyk, Gornik4.9 
 6. Stoklosa, Spojnia4.9 
 7. Zytko, ISS Sportino4.6 
 8. Kowalski, Gornik4.5 
 9. Basinski, MMKS D.4.3 
 10. Mordzak, Asec.Pro.4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Maciej USTARBOWSKI
  SKK Siedlce
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Ustarbowski, Gor.3.1 
 2. Zytko, ISS Sportino2.8 
 3. Wojcicki, SKK S.2.8 
 4. Muszynski, Gornik2.6 
 5. Malczyk, Asec.Pro.2.6 
 6. Michalak, Polonia .2.5 
 7. Szymanski, Znicz B.2.4 
 8. Klima, Sokol Lancut2.3 
 9. Wilczek, Tempcold.2.1 
 10. Sikora, Start Lublin2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Adam LISEWSKI
  MMKS DG
  (206-F/C-80)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Lisewski, MMKS D.2.4 
 2. Szymanski, Znicz B.1.5 
 3. Lichodzijews., ISS S.1.3 
 4. Klima, Sokol Lancut1.3 
 5. Kulikowski, Spojnia1.1 
 6. Mis, SKK Siedlce1.1 
 7. Bzdyra, GKS Tychy1.0 
 8. Glabas, Polonia 20110.9 
 9. Pytys, AZS Szczecin0.9 
 10. Pietras, Polonia 20110.9 


DBE Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ted SCOTT
  SKK Kotwica
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 25.4
 1. Scott, SKK Kotwica25.4 
 2. Hodge, Zastal17.0 
 3. Frazier, AZS K.16.7 
 4. Reynolds, AZS K.16.5 
 5. Hinson, Polonia Azbud16.3 
 6. Reese, AZS Koszalin16.0 
 7. Dylewicz, Trefl Sopot14.7 
 8. Bennerman, Energa C.14.5 
 9. NaNa, Polonia Azbud14.4 
 10. Goffney, Siarka14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 11.4
 1. Harris, SKK K.11.4 
 2. Truscott, Siarka9.9 
 3. Burgess, Zastal9.4 
 4. NaNa, Polonia Azbud8.3 
 5. Easley, Polonia Azbud7.0 
 6. Wysocki, PGE Turow6.7 
 7. Miller, Anwil6.6 
 8. Ceranic, Trefl S.6.6 
 9. Reynolds, AZS K.6.4 
 10. Dylewicz, Trefl Sopot6.4 
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 Turow5.7 
 4. Hodge, Zastal5.1 
 5. Skibniewski, Polph.4.8 
 6. Szubarga, Asseco P.4.1 
 7. Hawkins, PBG B.4.0 
 8. Vaughn, Polpharma3.5 
 9. Nowakowski, Poloni.3.0 
 10. Thompson, Anwil3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Darnell HINSON
  Isabela
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Hinson, Polonia Azbud2.7 
 2. Blassingame, Energa C.2.7 
 3. Hodge, Zastal2.5 
 4. Pringle, Siarka2.4 
 5. Skibniewski, Polph.2.4 
 6. Milicic, AZS K.2.3 
 7. Szubarga, Asseco P.2.2 
 8. Thomas, PGE Turow2.1 
 9. Hawkins, PBG B.2.1 
 10. Vaughn, Polpharma2.0 
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, Anwil1.3 
 5. Burgess, Zastal1.3 
 6. Easley, Polonia Azbud1.3 
 7. Davis, Energa C.1.0 
 8. Kesicki, Zastal0.8 
 9. Mirkovic, Polpharma0.8 
 10. Miller, Anwil0.8 


1Liga Round 2 of Semi-Finals. MMKS DG and Tempcold AZS celebrate wins - by Eurobasket News
Tempcold AZS - Sokol Lancut 74-65

Tempcold AZS claimed 2-0 lead in the semifinal series versus Sokol Lancut. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. AZS Politechnika Warszawska had a 28-17 advantage in offensive rebounds. Sokol Lancut was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Lukasz Wilczek (189-86) orchestrated the victory by scoring 13 points and 6 assists. Forward Michal Nowakowski (202-88) contributed with 17 points (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) for the winners. Four AZS Politechnika Warszawska players scored in double figures. Forward Piotr Ucinek (196-80) replied with 21 points and guard Marcel Wilczek (200-86) added 8 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Sokol Lancut. Sokol Lancut's coach Dariusz Kaszowski rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Tempcold AZS: M.Nowakowski 17+2reb+2ast, L.Wilczek 13+4reb+6ast, M.Popiolek 11+1reb+1ast, L.Karwowski 10+10reb+1ast, K.Pietras 8+6reb, M.Ponitka 6+5reb+2ast
Sokol Lancut: P.Ucinek 21+3reb+2ast, W.Pisarczyk 10+3reb+2ast, M.Wilczek 8+8reb, I.Chromicz 6+2reb, R.Glapinski 6+2reb+7ast, T.Fortuna 5+5reb
gschID: 126677


MMKS DG - LKS Lodz 89-82 OT

MMKS DG are now step away from the promotion to PLK after a tough overtime success over LKS Lodz. The hosts trailed by 14 points after three quarters before their 31-17 charge, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time and get a 7-point victory in overtime. LKS Sphinx was plagued by 33 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Lukasz Szczypka (185-80) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points. Power forward Adam Lisewski (206-F/C-80) contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. MMKS Dabrowa Gornicza's coach Wojciech Wieczorek used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Forward Jakub Dluski (200-87) replied with 16 points and 7 rebounds and guard Bartlomiej Szczepaniak (187-81) added 14 points in the effort for LKS Sphinx. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
MMKS DG: L.Szczypka 19+3reb+3ast, T.Wrobel 14+2reb+2ast, M.Piotrkowski 12+2reb, M.Piechowicz 11+2reb+3ast, A.Lisewski 11+12reb+1ast, P.Zielinski 9+2reb
LKS Lodz: J.Dluski 16+7reb, B.Szczepaniak 14+4reb+1ast, K.Sulima 11+8reb, D.Kalinowski 11+1reb+3ast, M.Salamonik 10+2reb+2ast, K.Morawiec 8+4reb+2ast
gschID: 126678




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


Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Johwen VILLEGAS
  Coamo
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 23.3
 1. Villegas, Coamo23.3 
 2. Vassallo, Guaynabo22.4 
 3. Dalmau, Bayamon21.0 
 4. Ramos, Quebradillas20.3 
 5. Brown, Quebradillas20.1 
 6. Romero, Mayaguez19.3 
 7. Clinch, Isabela18.6 
 8. Robinson, Humacao16.9 
 9. Shannon, Bayamon16.6 
 10. Pellot-Rosa, San G.15.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shavlik RANDOLPH
  Isabela
  (208-F-83)
  Avg: 12.9
 1. Randolph, Isabela12.9 
 2. Narvaez, Coamo12.8 
 3. Ramos, Quebradillas12.1 
 4. Pruitt, Guaynabo11.4 
 5. Lloreda, San G.11.1 
 6. Shannon, Bayamon10.4 
 7. Harris, San German9.5 
 8. Romero, Mayaguez9.4 
 9. Ofoegbu, Humacao8.2 
 10. Robinson, Humacao8.1 
Assists Per Game
 Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Dalmau, Bayamon6.1 
 2. Clinch, Isabela5.7 
 3. Hodge, Santurce5.5 
 4. Guzman, Guaynabo5.2 
 5. Brown, Quebradillas4.9 
 6. Cruz, Arecibo4.8 
 7. Copeland, San G.4.6 
 8. Rivera, Mayaguez4.3 
 9. Vega, Coamo4.1 
 10. Garcia, Humacao4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Carlos RODRIGUEZ
  Guaynabo
  (183-F-83)
  Avg: 3
 1. Rodriguez, Guaynabo3.0 
 2. Harris, San German2.5 
 3. Santiago, Santurce2.3 
 4. Benison, Santurce2.0 
 5. Clinch, Isabela1.9 
 6. Dalmau, Bayamon1.7 
 7. Pinnock, Arecibo1.7 
 8. Robinson, Humacao1.6 
 9. Carmona, Mayaguez1.5 
 10. Cruz, Arecibo1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Herve LAMIZANA
  Mayaguez
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Lamizana, Mayaguez2.7 
 2. Penn, Humacao2.6 
 3. Romero, Mayaguez2.4 
 4. Santiago, Arecibo2.2 
 5. Traylor, Bayamon2.0 
 6. Freije, Coamo1.7 
 7. Sanchez, Santurce1.5 
 8. Shannon, Bayamon1.3 
 9. Rice, San German1.2 
 10. Dyer, San German1.1 


Shannon's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
31-year old forward Terrence Shannon (203-F-79, agency: Paris Global Sports) put on an amazing game in the last week for Bayamon and receives a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for week 6.
He had a double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat San German (#8, 3-5) 89-83. Bayamon maintains the 3rd position in Puerto Rican league. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Regular Season. Bayamon will need more victories to improve their 5-2 record. Shannon just recently signed at Bayamon, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Elgin CC graduate has very impressive stats this year. Shannon is in league's top in points (9th best: 16.6ppg), rebounds (6th best: 10.4rpg) and averages solid 1.3bpg and 59.7% FGP.

Second best performed player last week was Christian Dalmau (194-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports). He is former international guard in his second season at Bayamon. In the last game Dalmau recorded impressive 34 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists. It was enough for Bayamon to edge the lower-ranked San German (#8, 3-5) by 6 points 89-83. Bayamon's 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 5-2 record is not bad at all. Dalmau is well-known at Bayamon and together with Terrence Shannon he already established his position as one of the team's leaders. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 21.0ppg (#3). His other stats are also decent: 4.1rpg and 6.1apg.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, agency: SportsTalent) of Capitanes (#5). Pinnock showcased his all-around game by recording 25 points, eleven rebounds (!!!) and seven assists in the last week. Despite Pinnock's great performance Arecibo lost 77-81 to the higher-ranked Coamo (#2, 5-2). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Arecibo ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 4 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Pinnock could help Arecibo to bring them higher in the standings. Pinnock has a very solid season. In 7 games in Puerto Rico he scored 14.4ppg. He also has 6.3rpg and 3.7apg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Shaun Pruitt (208-C-85) of Guaynabo - 20 points and 13 rebounds
5. Hector Romero (202-F/C-80) of Mayaguez - 18 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Mike Harris (198-F-83) of San German - 19 points and 12 rebounds
7. Miguel Ali Berdiel (198-G-83) of Humacao - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Shavlik Randolph (208-F-83) of Isabela - 17 points and 12 rebounds
9. Ronnie Fields (193-G-77) of Coamo - 21 points and 7 rebounds
10. Herve Lamizana (207-F/C-81) of Mayaguez - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists

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

*****************************************************
  QATAR   


QBF Emir Cup. Gharrafah and Arabi win preliminary pools - by Eurobasket News
Gharrafah qualified into Emir Cup semifinals from the top place in their group. They finished the preliminary round action at 2-1 record after a 54:64 loss to Qatar Club. Gharrafah will take on Ahli who clinched the second spot in Group 2.
Gharrafah have already booked the top spot in the group when they entered the third round of action. They looked sloppy against Qatar Club and their opponents capitalized claiming their first win at the tournament. Adrian Joseph (201-F-84, college: Virginia) connected for 15 points to pace the winners. Gaston Moliva (201-F-85, college: Richmond) added 13 points for Qatar Club.
In the meantime Rayyan sealed their semifinal appearance with a comfortable 81:74 win over Jaysh in the decider. Rayyan occupied the second place in Group 1 and would take on Arabi. Rayyan dominated from start to finish rallying to a key win against Jaysh. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, college: Iowa) came up with 18 points to lead the QBF League defending champions. Targuy Ngombo (196-F-89, agency: Court Side) contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds in the victory. Sheikh Ahmed replied with 22 points for Jaysh. Grimes Jackson added 20 points in defeat.
Arabi won Group 2 with a perfect 3-0 record. They knocked down Ahli 81:76 behind 24 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists from Michael Cuffee (193-F-83, college: Middle Tenn.St.). Elhagi Doudou added 17 points for the winning team. Bob Saintprux answered with 26 points for Ahli who made it into the next round despite loss.
Finally Wakrah claimed their first win after they held off Sadd 77:73. Soelhaj Abdou chipped in 23 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead Wakrah. Sultan Muftah, Souleymane Ndour (205-C-87) and Darren Kelly (190-G-78, college: Texas) added 15 points each in the win. Michael Bell (206-F-82, college: Florida Atlantic) erupted for 32 points for Sadd.
Semifinals are best-of-five series and are slated to start tonight.

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  ROMANIA   


Q&A with Jason Forte, the MVP of the Cup Final Four - by Tamas Deri
The american all-around guard arrived at the end of August to Mures, where he got the most popular player of the team this season. With his amazing dunks, great penetration skills, excellent defensive skills he has been the the key player of coach Deri's team at both end of the court.
I was visiting the Romanian Cup Final Four in Mures almost two weeks ago and had the chance to make an interview with this very professional basketball player. Jason Forte (196-F-84, college: S.Mississippi) was shining in both games on the court as he scored 27 points vs. Steaua and 31 points vs. Ploiesti also adding more than 10 rebounds in both games.

- How did you get the deal done with BC Mures in Romania?
- Well, The deal got done when my bestfriend Eddy Barlow came to me and said that Mures wanted him but he wanted them to sign me also. We were basically a package deal!

- What do you think about the level of romanian basketball?
- The level of basketball here in Romanian has picked up alot. Unlike some of the leagues Ive played in such as Turkey and Germany, the Romanian league is alot better than recent years.

- How did you like to play for S. Mississippi in the NCAA? Which was the best game in your college carreer?

- My college career was very unusual. I came in one of the best players in my class and I committed to Boston College out of high school. That quickly changed after my mother's issues with breast cancer got worst and I decided to stay close to home. I was played out of position in college my last 2 years. Where I played position 4-5 but with my height at 6'4'' i had to use my strength and athletism and i became very productive. I knew it would hurt my stock coming out of college but we lost alot of big guys and I would do anything to be on the floor and help my team win. My best college game was my last home game where I had 27pts, 10rebs.

- After your senior season you got drafted in the CBA an won the Championship! Eddy Barlow was your teammate there! How strong was that league and what do you think about Eddys game?

- Well i didnt actually get drafted in the CBA, I was signed as a rookie free agent. The CBA was strong then and was 1 of the best minor leagues at that time. It was equal to the NBDL and we still had guys getting NBA call-ups then. Eddy Barlow is a great player. He was older than me and played professionally longer than me and he really help mold me into a better player.

- After your 2nd CBA season you moved to Germany but left after 5 games. What happened there and how did you like Germany and the league?

- The German league was strong but I signed with Bamberg just for a 2 month contract to replace the injured player John Goldsberry.

- You moved to Turkey and did will for Banvitliler in the 2nd league. After 7 games you moved up to the first division but did not get enough time on the court! What was the reason of your decision?

- After a very fast and successful tenure in the 2nd league, Banvit decided to sign me and move me up to the 1st division. But with the Turkish rule you can only have 3 foreigners on the court and those players were Joe Crispin, Lance Williams, and Andre Brown. They played most of the minutes and it left me the odd man out.

- After one season in Europe you did not sign with any club? Why?

- Reason is i was going to play for my former CBA coach Tony Fritz with the Sioux Falls organization, but I decided that the D-League was not for me and by then the season was starting to get late in Europe.

- In 2010 you played in Phillipines, how did you like there?

- Philippines was a good league but its also one of those league where players make fast money and its really cut-throat.

- As eurobasket.com was informed, you signed a deal last summer in Brazil but finally arrived in Mures! What is the true story?

- The deal in Brazil was a lock but one of the main sponsors folded and I was able to back out of that deal because of that financial problem the team was having.

- Jason, thank you very much for your time! We wish you all the best in the playoffs with Mures and of course for your carreer where ever you will fly on the court!



The favorites sweep the Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Quarter-Finals
Pitesti - Ploiesti 72-74

The guests trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 20-14 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Ploiesti forced 20 Pitesti turnovers. It was a good game for the former international center Catalin Burlacu (210-77, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with 31 points and 7 rebounds. The former international swingman Levente Szijarto (192-83, agency: Court Side) contributed with 12 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four Ploiesti players scored in double figures. American guard Donte Gennie (185-83, college: Georgia Southern, agency: Basket Law/NM Services) answered with 32 points, 5 assists and 4 steals and Serbian swingman Ivan Stefanovic (201-80, agency: World Sport Agency) added 10 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Pitesti.
Top scorers:
Pitesti: D.Gennie 32+3reb+5ast, I.Stefanovic 10+9reb+2ast, A.Voinescu 10+1reb+4ast, C.Eichelberger 8+8reb+2ast, S.Isleam 6+4reb+2ast, D.Vujacic 4+3reb+3ast
Ploiesti: C.Burlacu 31+7reb+1ast, L.Szijarto 12+7reb+3ast, Q.Calhoun 11+8reb+2ast, A.Blidaru 10+4reb+4ast, J.Westrol 4+4reb+2ast, K.Ford 3+6reb
gschID: 127097


Mures - Steaua Turabo 87-98

The game was mostly controlled by Steaua Turabo. Mures was better in fourth quarter 23-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Mures 39-17 including a 15-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Steaua Turabo especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 56.3 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. It was a great evening for the former international power forward Virgil Stanescu (207-77, college: S.Alabama, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory scoring 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international center Virgil Carutasu (204-76) helped adding 18 points and 12 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American guard JuJuan Cooley (175-82, college: Indiana Tech, agency: Agency No 10) with 16 points and 8 assists and the other American import forward Jason Forte (196-84, college: S.Mississippi) scored 21 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Mures: J.Forte 21+3reb+2ast, A.Mladenovic 19+5reb, J.Straight 19+4ast, J.Cooley 16+4reb+8ast, A.Capusan 6+1reb+2ast, F.Lapuste 3+1reb
Steaua Turabo: J.Jackson 23+2reb+1ast, V.Stanescu 19+8reb+6ast, V.Carutasu 18+12reb+1ast, H.Nikolov 12+5reb+1ast, G.Hafnar 7+4reb+3ast, I.Tomeljak 7+3reb+5ast
gschID: 127096


Oradea - Gaz Metan 75-89

The game was mostly controlled by Gaz Metan. Oradea managed to win fourth quarter 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Oradea 37-24 including 26 on the defensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for the former international center Ionut Dragusin (221-85) who led the winners and scored 22 points (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field). The former international forward Titus Nicoara (200-88, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 13 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. Four Gaz Metan players scored in double figures. Serbian guard Nemanja Maric (196-83) came up with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) and American guard Tyrone Mitchell (186-81, college: Northwestern St.) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for Oradea in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Oradea: N.Maric 22+6reb+7ast, M.Schachtner 13+4reb, T.Mitchell 12+5reb+5ast, R.Torok 9+4reb, S.Topcov 9+2reb, R.Pasca 8+1reb+3ast
Gaz Metan: I.Dragusin 22+3reb, T.Dumitrescu 18+2reb+3ast, T.Nicoara 13+12reb, I.Ivanovic 11+6reb, U.Velickovic 10+4reb+3ast, T.Jucan 8+1reb+1ast
gschID: 127094


CSU Sibiu - U.Mobitel.CN 63-81

The game was mostly controlled by U-Mobitelco. CSU Sibiu was better in third quarter 26-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded CSU Sibiu 40-26 including a 17-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was a good game for Serbian center Zoran Krstanovic (205-82) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 15 rebounds. Montenegrin guard Branko Cuic (196-78) contributed with 12 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Five U-Mobitelco players scored in double figures. American center Justin Herndon (208-83) answered with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and the other American import guard LeVar Seals (194-82, college: De Paul) added 17 points and 5 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) in the effort for CSU Sibiu.
Top scorers:
CSU Sibiu: L.Seals 17+5reb+1ast, J.Herndon 16+11reb, M.Markovic 11+6reb+2ast, O.Calota 8+2reb+3ast, S.Atanackovic 8+1ast, C.Craciun 3
U.Mobitel.CN: Z.Krstanovic 26+15reb+1ast, K.Dykes 13+2reb+4ast, B.Cuic 12+6reb+2ast, D.Lawrence 12+5reb+2ast, M.Silvasan 10+5reb+4ast, S.Thomson 6+4reb
gschID: 127095


9-16 place
Craiova - CSM Bucuresti 81-107

The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 107-81. CSM Bucuresti dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Craiova's 50. They outrebounded Craiova 48-27 including a 20-9 advantage in offensive rebounds. CSM Bucuresti looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. It was a good game for Serbian power forward Branislav Tomic (205-80) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 29 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists. American guard Ray Kraemer (193-87, college: Nevada) contributed with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Four CSM Bucuresti players scored in double figures. American guard Jermont Horton (198-83, college: Rutgers-Newark) answered with 27 points and 8 rebounds and the other American import guard Casey Wohlleb (201-86, college: Florida Gulf Coast) added 29 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Craiova. 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:
Craiova: C.Wohlleb 29+6reb+1ast, J.Horton 27+8reb+2ast, B.Gillespie 9+1reb+3ast, I.Albu 7+2reb+4ast, I.Dodoc 6+1reb+3ast, M.Gavrila 3+7reb+1ast
CSM Bucuresti: R.Kraemer 30+10reb+1ast, B.Tomic 29+11reb+7ast, M.Bennett 17+14reb, J.Smith 11+6reb+7ast, M.Paul 6+2reb+5ast, A.Santana 5
gschID: 127099


Politehnica Iasi - Rovinari 79-93

The game was mostly controlled by Rovinari. Politehnica Iasi was better in third quarter 24-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rovinari made 17-of-20 free shots (85.0 percent) during the game. Rovinari outrebounded Politehnica Iasi 41-26 including a 32-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for Polish center Rafal Bigus (215-76, college: Villanova) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds. American swingman Porter Troupe (196-83, college: Portland) contributed with 18 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American swingman Bryan McCullough (198-83, college: NC-Asheville, agency: 011 Sports) answered with 17 points and 6 assists and the former international guard Brice Kabengele-Kalala (196-81) added 20 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Politehnica Iasi. Five Rovinari and four Politehnica Iasi players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Politehnica Iasi: B.Kabengele-Kalala 20+6reb+1ast, B.McCullough 17+4reb+6ast, M.Nicolae 16+8reb+1ast, L.Dawson 14+4reb+3ast, N.Marinkovic 9+1ast, I.Hurjui 3+1ast
Rovinari: S.Nikolic 20+5reb+2ast, P.Troupe 18+8reb+1ast, R.Bigus 17+15reb, S.Lupusavei 15+2reb+1ast, V.Mocanu 10+8reb, M.Oluic 9+3reb+2ast
gschID: 127100


Miercurea Ciuc - Timisoara 93-97

Miercurea Ciuc was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 32-27 charge of Timisoara, which allowed them to win the game. They made 27-of-30 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game, while Miercurea Ciuc only scored ten points from the stripe. Miercurea Ciuc was plagued by 29 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for Serbian forward Milos Pesic (202-84) who led his team to a victory with 35 points (!!!) and 7 rebounds. Serbian guard Rade Dzambic (188-80, college: NYIT) contributed with 21 points and 5 assists for the winners. American guard Clevin Hannah (180-87, college: Wichita St., agency: Court Side) answered with 25 points and 9 assists and American-Mexican guard Enrico Tucker (180, college: San Diego) added 24 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Miercurea Ciuc. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Miercurea Ciuc's coach Botond Laszlofy tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game.
Top scorers:
Miercurea Ciuc: C.Hannah 25+2reb+9ast, E.Tucker 24+5reb+3ast, Y.Coleman 15+9reb, J.Huffman 15+4reb, Z.Samuila 4+1reb+1ast, L.Levine 3+1reb+3ast
Timisoara: M.Pesic 35+7reb, R.Dzambic 21+4reb+5ast, N.Markovic 20+3reb, D.Paltinisanu 13+6reb+1ast, D.Habus 4+4reb+5ast, I.Miskovic 4+2reb
gschID: 127101


Brasov - Otopeni 81-79

Otopeni was ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 26-10 third quarter run of Brasov. They made 28-of-37 charity shots (75.7 percent) during the game, while Otopeni only scored eight points from the stripe. 27 personal fouls committed by Otopeni helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Montenegrin center Zeljko Bubanja (210-73) who had a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Octavian Boian (186) chipped in 17 points and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was Serbian guard Slobodan Popovic (198-80, agency: BeoExcell) who recorded 21 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and Serbian forward Aleksandar Belanovic (203-76) added 10 points and 8 rebounds respectively. Five Brasov and four Otopeni players scored in double figures. Otopeni's coach Eugen Ilie rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Otopeni: S.Popovic 21+8reb+5ast, C.Scott 12+6reb, M.Medvedj 12+1reb+7ast, A.Belanovic 10+8reb+2ast, C.Vlaicu 8+3reb, A.Urucatu 5+3reb
Brasov: Z.Bubanja 25+11reb+3ast, O.Boian 17+1reb+6ast, A.Dohi 13+7reb, M.Popa 13+4reb+4ast, R.Paliciuc 10+9reb+2ast, H.Codin 3
gschID: 127098




Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 LeRoy DAWSON
  Politehnica Iasi
  (188-G-81)
  Avg: 22
 1. Dawson, Polite.22.0 
 2. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.21.0 
 3. Hannah, Miercure.20.5 
 4. Dykes, U.Mobite.20.5 
 5. Horton, Craiova20.1 
 6. Tomic, CSM B.19.9 
 7. Pesic, Timisoara19.8 
 8. Darby, Rovinari19.1 
 9. Vujacic, Pitesti19.0 
 10. Gennie, Pitesti18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kenneth SIMMS
  Craiova
  (203-C-)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Simms, Craiova11.1 
 2. Coleman, Miercure.9.8 
 3. Bennett, CSM B.9.6 
 4. Nicoara, Gaz Metan9.5 
 5. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.9.4 
 6. Bigus, Rovinari9.3 
 7. Forte, Mures8.5 
 8. Burlacu, Ploiesti7.8 
 9. Harrison, CSU Sibiu7.7 
 10. Eichelberger, Pitesti7.7 
Assists Per Game
 JuJuan COOLEY
  Mures
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 8.3
 1. Cooley, Mures8.3 
 2. Dzambic, CSM B.7.9 
 3. Hannah, Miercure.6.2 
 4. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN5.4 
 5. Howell, Gaz Metan5.3 
 6. Stojakovic, Craiova5.2 
 7. Blidaru, Ploiesti5.0 
 8. Medvedj, Otopeni4.9 
 9. Gennie, Pitesti4.8 
 10. Dzambic, Timisoara4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Nikola STOJAKOVIC
  Craiova
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Stojakovic, Craiova2.5 
 2. Mitchell, Gaz Metan2.4 
 3. Gennie, Pitesti2.4 
 4. Harrison, CSU Sibiu2.4 
 5. Cooley, Mures2.4 
 6. Howell, Gaz Metan2.4 
 7. Dykes, U.Mobite.2.0 
 8. Dawson, Polite.2.0 
 9. Blidaru, Ploiesti2.0 
 10. Eichelberger, Pitesti1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Michael HARRISON
  CSU Sibiu
  (206-F/C-84)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Harrison, CSU Sibiu1.8 
 2. Eichelberger, Pitesti1.6 
 3. Capusan, Rovinari1.6 
 4. Masiulis, CSU S.1.5 
 5. Herndon, CSU Sibiu1.4 
 6. Mladenovic, Mures1.4 
 7. Simms, Craiova1.3 
 8. Lazar, Oradea1.2 
 9. Dragusin, Gaz M.1.0 
 10. Waterstradt, CSM B.0.9 


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  RUSSIA   


Standings - Superleague A
PBL Standings
 1. Unics 15-5 
 2. Lokomotiv 15-7 
 3. Khimky 14-7 
 4. Spartak SP 14-8 
 5. CSKA 14-8 
 6. Enisey 10-11 
 7. N.Novgorod 8-14 
 8. Krasnie Krilya 7-14 
 9. Dynamo 6-16 
 10. Triumph 4-17 


Standings - Superleague B
Superleague Standings
 1. Univ.Surgut 30-9 
 2. Saransk 28-9 
 3. Spartak-Primorie 27-10 
 4. Severstal 25-12 
 5. Ural Ekaterinb. 24-10 
 6. Revda 17-18 
 7. Metallurg-Univ. 15-22 
 8. Rjazan 12-23 
 9. Lokomotiv 8-27 
 10. Irkutsk 8-29 
 11. Zaretchny 6-31 


Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Keith LANGFORD
  Khimky
  (193-G/F-83)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Langford, Khimky18.2 
 2. Baxter, Enisey16.3 
 3. Domercant, Spart.16.2 
 4. Keyru, Dynamo16.1 
 5. Williams, Enisey15.9 
 6. Lampe, Unics15.7 
 7. Labovic, Enisey14.2 
 8. Likhodey, Triumph13.6 
 9. Popovic, Unics13.6 
 10. Wilkinson, Lokomotiv13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alexey ZHUKANENKO
  Dynamo
  (210-F-86)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Zhukanenko, Dynamo7.8 
 2. Lampe, Unics7.0 
 3. Baxter, Enisey6.7 
 4. Papadopoulos, Khi.6.6 
 5. Beverley, Spart.6.5 
 6. Monya, Khimky6.3 
 7. Wilkinson, Lokomotiv6.2 
 8. Massey, Lokomotiv6.1 
 9. Brezec, Krasnie .5.9 
 10. Plisnic, N.Novgorod5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Marcus WILLIAMS
  Enisey
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 7
 1. Williams, Enisey7.0 
 2. Bremer, Krasnie .5.5 
 3. Vyaltsev, Triumph5.0 
 4. Ponkrashov, Spart.5.0 
 5. Popovic, Unics4.5 
 6. Khvostov, Dynamo4.1 
 7. Planinic, Khimky3.8 
 8. Holden, CSKA3.3 
 9. Rush, Krasnie Krilya3.1 
 10. Beverley, Spart.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Patrick BEVERLEY
  Spartak SP
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Beverley, Spart.2.1 
 2. Surovtsev, Lokom.1.6 
 3. Voronov, Dynamo1.6 
 4. Ponkrashov, Spart.1.5 
 5. Labovic, Enisey1.4 
 6. Wilkinson, Lokomotiv1.4 
 7. Komarovskiy, Eni.1.4 
 8. Massey, Lokomotiv1.4 
 9. Bremer, Krasnie .1.3 
 10. Domercant, Spart.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Sergey VARLAMOV
  Triumph
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Varlamov, Triumph1.2 
 2. Eze, Khimky1.1 
 3. Zabelin, CSKA1.0 
 4. Monya, Khimky1.0 
 5. Likhodey, Triumph1.0 
 6. Yakovenko, N.Nov.1.0 
 7. Davidson, Krasni.0.9 
 8. Kaun, CSKA0.9 
 9. Zhukanenko, Dynamo0.9 
 10. Antonov, N.Novgorod0.8 


PBL Round 22 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets.

The game in Nizhny Novgorod supposed to be quite interesting. Third ranked Khimky (14-7) played at the court of 7th ranked BC Nizhny Novgorod (8-14). Khimky smashed BC Nizhny Novgorod 71-46 on Sunday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BC Nizhny Novgorod. The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. BC Nizhny Novgorod managed to win fourth quarter 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding BC Nizhny Novgorod to just 2 points in third quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Sergey Monya (203-83) who helped to win the game recording 10 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international center Alexey Savrasenko (215-79) contributed with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized Belarusian forward Aliaksandr Pustahvar (201-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) replied with 8 points and 8 rebounds for BC Nizhny Novgorod. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Khimky maintains third position with 14-7 record behind leader Unics. Newly promoted BC Nizhny Novgorod keeps the seventh place with 14 games lost. Khimky are looking forward to face Enisey Krasnoyarsk (#6) on the road in the next round. BC Nizhny Novgorod will play against Dynamo Moscow and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Other games in round 22 were not that significant. Enisey was beaten by CSKA on the road 91-75. Spartak SP won against Dynamo on its own court 80-70. Lokomotiv managed to outperform Triumph in Kuban 90-75.
The most impressive performance of 22th round was 26 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists by Patrick Beverley of Spartak SP.

CSKA - Enisey 91-75

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fifth ranked CSKA Moscow's (14-8) home victory over 6th ranked Enisey Krasnoyarsk (10-11) 91-75 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by CSKA Moscow. Enisey Krasnoyarsk managed to win third quarter 22-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 32 personal fouls committed by Enisey Krasnoyarsk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of Lithuanian guard Ramunas Siskauskas (197-78) who helped to win the game recording 20 points. International center Sasha Kaun (211-85) contributed with 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four CSKA Moscow players scored in double figures. American guard Marcus Williams (191-85, college: Connecticut) replied with 21 points and 4 assists and Serbian power forward Dragan Labovic (207-87, agency: Alti Sport) added 16 points and 5 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) in the effort for Enisey Krasnoyarsk. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Spartak SP. Enisey Krasnoyarsk at the other side keeps the sixth position with 11 games lost. CSKA Moscow is looking forward to face bottom-ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (#10) in Lubertsy in the next round where they are favorite. Enisey Krasnoyarsk will play at home against Khimky (#3) in Khimki and is hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Enisey: M.Williams 21+4reb+4ast, D.Labovic 16+5reb+1ast, V.Solovyev 7, K.Pinkney 7+4reb+2ast, L.Baxter 6+6reb+1ast, D.Nikolaev 5+1reb
CSKA: R.Siskauskas 20+2reb+3ast, S.Kaun 16+6reb, V.Khryapa 11+4reb+2ast, A.Shved 11+3reb+2ast, T.Langdon 10+1reb+1ast, M.Smodis 8+2reb+2ast
gschID: 104051


N.Novgorod - Khimky 46-71

The game in Nizhny Novgorod supposed to be quite interesting. Third ranked Khimky (14-7) played at the court of 7th ranked BC Nizhny Novgorod (8-14). Khimky smashed BC Nizhny Novgorod 71-46 on Sunday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of BC Nizhny Novgorod. The game was mostly controlled by Khimky. BC Nizhny Novgorod managed to win fourth quarter 18-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding BC Nizhny Novgorod to just 2 points in third quarter. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Sergey Monya (203-83) who helped to win the game recording 10 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international center Alexey Savrasenko (215-79) contributed with 11 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized Belarusian forward Aliaksandr Pustahvar (201-85, agency: RU-Basket Management) replied with 8 points and 8 rebounds and forward Artem Yakovenko (206-88, agency: RU-Basket Management) added 10 points in the effort for BC Nizhny Novgorod. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Khimky maintains third position with 14-7 record behind leader Unics. Newly promoted BC Nizhny Novgorod keeps the seventh place with 14 games lost. Khimky are looking forward to face Enisey Krasnoyarsk (#6) on the road in the next round. BC Nizhny Novgorod will play against Dynamo Moscow and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
N.Novgorod: A.Yakovenko 10+4reb, A.Pustahvar 8+8reb+1ast, S.Antonov 7+4reb, I.Savelyev 7+3reb+2ast, D.Golovin 5+1reb+1ast, I.Paunic 3+2reb+2ast
Khimky: A.Savrasenko 11+7reb, S.Monya 10+5reb+5ast, Z.Planinic 9+3reb+1ast, R.Lopez 8+4reb+2ast, T.Hansen 8+2ast, K.Loncar 7+4reb+1ast
gschID: 104052


Spartak SP - Dynamo 80-70

Very expected game when 9th ranked Dynamo Moscow (6-16) lost on the road to fifth ranked Spartak St.Petersburg (14-8) 80-70 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 80-70. It was a very good performance for American guard Patrick Beverley (185-88, college: Arkansas) who helped to win the game recording 26 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). American-Bosnian guard Henry Domercant (192-80, college: E.Illinois) contributed with 20 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Spartak St.Petersburg's coach Zvi Sherf used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international guard Victor Keyru (199-84) replied with 30 points and 5 rebounds and center Petr Gubanov (207-87) added 14 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Dynamo Moscow. Spartak St.Petersburg moved-up to fourth place, which they share with CSKA. Dynamo Moscow at the other side keeps the ninth position with 16 games lost. Spartak St.Petersburg is looking forward to face Krasnie Krilya (#8) in Samara in the next round. Dynamo Moscow will play at home against BC Nizhny Novgorod and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Dynamo: V.Keyru 30+5reb+1ast, P.Gubanov 14+6reb, A.Zhukanenko 8+7reb+1ast, A.Urazmanov 5+3reb+4ast, N.Shabalkin 4+2reb, D.Domani 4+4reb+3ast
Spartak SP: P.Beverley 26+8reb+4ast, H.Domercant 20+5reb+1ast, N.Dragovic 13+4reb, P.Antic 5+2reb, P.Popovic 4+2reb+3ast, A.Ponkrashov 4+1reb+4ast
gschID: 104054


Triumph - Lokomotiv 75-90

Very predictable result when second ranked Lokomotiv (15-7) won against bottom-ranked Triumph Lyubertsy (4-17) in Lubertsy 90-75 on Tuesday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 52-35 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was a very good performance for American-FYR Macedonian forward Jeremiah Massey (202-82, college: Kansas St.) who helped to win the game recording 20 points. American-FYR Macedonian forward Michael Wilkinson (204-81, college: Wisconsin, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 14 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Four Lokomotiv players scored in double figures. American guard Tywain McKee (188-86, college: Coppin St.) replied with 21 points and Australian center Luke Nevill (218-86, college: Utah) added 15 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Triumph Lyubertsy. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Lokomotiv maintains second position with 15-7 record having just -2 point less than leader Unics. Triumph Lyubertsy lost ninth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 17 games lost. Lokomotiv are looking forward to face league's leader Unics Kazan at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Triumph Lyubertsy will play against CSKA Moscow (#5) and is hoping to prove to their fans that they can break losing series.
Top scorers:
Triumph: T.McKee 21+4reb+3ast, L.Nevill 15+9reb+2ast, V.Likhodey 10+3reb+3ast, I.Syrovatko 9+3reb, S.Karasev 8+3reb+1ast, A.Nesterov 5+3reb+2ast
Lokomotiv: J.Massey 20+3reb+1ast, M.Wilkinson 14+7reb, L.Chalmers 11+3reb+1ast, A.Tucker 11+1ast, G.Jeretin 8+4ast, G.Shukhovtsov 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 104055




Superleague Round 41: Ruskon-Mordovia loses to Spartak-Primorie in the game between Top 4 teams - 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.

The game between Top Four teams took place in Vladivostok. Third ranked host Spartak-Primorie (27-10) defeated second-ranked Ruskon-Mordovia (28-9) 78-64. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Ruskon-Mordovia. The game without a history. Spartak-Primorie led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Spartak-Primorie maintains third place with 27-10 record having just -21 point less than leader Univ.Surgut. Ruskon-Mordovia at the other side keeps the second position with nine games lost. Spartak-Primorie are again looking forward to face league's second-placed Ruskon-Mordovia in Saransk in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ruskon-Mordovia will have a break next round.
Superlaegue top team - Universitet-Yugra (30-9) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed eighth ranked Rjazan (12-23) in Surgut 88-62. Newly promoted Universitet-Yugra maintains first place with 30-9 record. Rjazan lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 23 games lost. Universitet-Yugra will again meet at home Rjazan (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Rjazan will have a break next round.
The game in Revda was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Ural Ekaterinburg (24-10) played at the court of 6th ranked TEMP-SUMZ Revda (17-18). Ural Ekaterinburg managed to secure a 7-point victory 99-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of TEMP-SUMZ Revda. Ural Ekaterinburg have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 24-10 record. TEMP-SUMZ Revda at the other side keeps the sixth position with 18 games lost. Ural Ekaterinburg will have a break next round. TEMP-SUMZ Revda will play again at home against Ural Ekaterinburg (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Fourth ranked Severstal (25-12) crushed at home 7th ranked Metallurg-University (15-22) by 27 points 89-62, which is the biggest margin this round on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Metallurg-University. Severstal maintains fourth place with 25-12 record. Loser Metallurg-University keeps the seventh position with 22 games lost. Severstal will face again Metallurg-University (#7) in Magnitogorsk in the next round.



Severstal - Metallurg-Univ. 89-62

Fourth ranked Severstal (25-12) crushed at home 7th ranked Metallurg-University (15-22) by 27 points 89-62, which is the biggest margin this round on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Metallurg-University. Severstal maintains fourth place with 25-12 record. Loser Metallurg-University keeps the seventh position with 22 games lost. Severstal will face again Metallurg-University (#7) in Magnitogorsk in the next round.
gschID: 104285


Univ.Surgut - Rjazan 88-62

Superlaegue top team - Universitet-Yugra (30-9) had no problems winning another game on Tuesday. This time they crushed eighth ranked Rjazan (12-23) in Surgut 88-62. The game without a history. Universitet-Yugra led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Newly promoted Universitet-Yugra maintains first place with 30-9 record. Rjazan lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 23 games lost. Universitet-Yugra will again meet at home Rjazan (#8) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Rjazan will have a break next round.
gschID: 104281


Spartak-Primorie - Saransk 78-64

The game between Top Four teams took place in Vladivostok. Third ranked host Spartak-Primorie (27-10) defeated second-ranked Ruskon-Mordovia (28-9) 78-64. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Ruskon-Mordovia. The game without a history. Spartak-Primorie led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Spartak-Primorie maintains third place with 27-10 record having just -21 point less than leader Univ.Surgut. Ruskon-Mordovia at the other side keeps the second position with nine games lost. Spartak-Primorie are again looking forward to face league's second-placed Ruskon-Mordovia in Saransk in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ruskon-Mordovia will have a break next round.
gschID: 104282


Irkutsk - Zaretchny 0-20

gschID: 104283


Revda - Ural Ekaterinb. 92-99

The game in Revda was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Ural Ekaterinburg (24-10) played at the court of 6th ranked TEMP-SUMZ Revda (17-18). Ural Ekaterinburg managed to secure a 7-point victory 99-92. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of TEMP-SUMZ Revda. Ural Ekaterinburg have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain fifth place with 24-10 record. TEMP-SUMZ Revda at the other side keeps the sixth position with 18 games lost. Ural Ekaterinburg will have a break next round. TEMP-SUMZ Revda will play again at home against Ural Ekaterinburg (#5) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 104284




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


Miljenovic leaves FMP? - by Zoran Popovic
According to Serbian Sports news, young prospect Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93) leaves FMP Zeleznik. Miljenovic decides to not sign professional contract with FMP Zeleznik. Nenad Miljenovic started career in FMP Zeleznik and passed all young categories. Miljenovic becomes member of Serbian U16, U17 and U18 National team and one of the best players. On Euroleague junior tournament 2010 Miljenovic was MVP with average scored 17.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 2.5 steals per game.

Coach Sasa Obradovic and his Donetsk win the regular season title in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
Serbian coach Sasa Obradovic (agency: Beo Basket ) and his team Donetsk won the regular season title in Ukraine with 37-11 record. They advanced to Playoffs and will meet 8th ranked Kryvbasbasket in the Quarterfinals. This is a great success for the team who had poor 2009/10 season. Obradovic took over Donetsk last summer and managed to make a strong team who became the main contender for the Superleague title.
Beside Obradovic, members of Donetsk are also Branko Cvetkovic and Sasa Vasiljevic. In the last game of the regular season, which was also the crucial one for the first place, Donetsk outplayed Budivelnyk 94-82. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Budivelnyk. As mentioned above, it was a key game for the top position in the league. The hosts trailed by 6 points at the halftime before their 48-30 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. BC Donetsk made 20-of-24 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. 28 personal fouls committed by Budivelnyk helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Serbian-Bosnian guard Sasa Vasiljevic scored 13 points and 8 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Bosnian swingman Jasmin Hukic chipped in 15 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Five BC Donetsk players scored in double figures. American guard Dewarick Spencer responded with 13 points and 6 assists and British center Andrew Betts scored 17 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Budivelnyk's coach Josep Berrocal rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. BC Donetsk have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader. Budivelnyk at the other side dropped to the second place with 12 games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by BC Donetsk.

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


Spanish LEB Gold round 34 best performance: Jose Angel Antelo - by Eurobasket News
Power forward Jose Angel Antelo (203-F/C-87) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Caceres 2016 C.B., receiving a Eurobasket.com LEB Gold Player of the Week award for round 34.
The 23-year old player had a double-double of 25 points and 11 rebounds, while his team beat La Palma (16-18) 94-82. Caceres ended as No.9 with 18-16 record and grabbed the last ticket for the Playoff Quarterfinals. In the team's last game Antelo had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range and got three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. It was one of impressive evenings for him as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Jose Angel Antelo averages this season 11.0ppg and 6.1rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Dwayne Curtis (203-C-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) of Lleida. Curtis had a very good evening with a double-double of 25 points and 12 rebounds. Bad luck as Lleida lost that game 78-106 to the lower-ranked Huesca (12-22). Lleida finished as No.12 (13-21) and failed to reach the Playoffs. Curtis is a newcomer at Lleida, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was former international forward Ricardo Guillen (205-F/C-76) of La Laguna Socas Canarias (#8). Guillen showcased his all-around game by recording 21 points, eight rebounds and four assists in the last round. Despite Guillen's great performance La Laguna lost 111-112 in overtime to the higher-ranked CB Murcia (30-4). La Laguna finished as No.7 with 18-16 score and will meet Girona in the Quarterfinals. Guillen has a great season in Spain. After 27 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.1ppg (best scorer) and rebounds with 7.3rpg (7th best). He also has FGP: 57.3% and 3PT: 44.0%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vitor Faverani (211-C-88) of CB Murcia - 23 points and 7 rebounds
5. Thiago Labbate (208-C-83) of Girona - 13 points and 11 rebounds
6. Joaquin Bonhome (194-G/F-86) of La Palma - 14 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Jason Blair (201-F/C-79) of Navarra - 13 points and 14 rebounds
8. Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-F/C-85) of La Palma - 20 points and 6 rebounds
9. Stevie Johnson (198-F/C-78) of Huesca - 22 points and 3 rebounds
10. Timothy Frost (208-C-80) of Palencia - 14 points, 8 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)

CAI Zaragoza extends head coach J.L. Abos - by Natxo Mendaza
CAI Zaragoza head coach Jose Luis Abos will stay in the team for two more seasons, the club officially announced today. Abos joined CAI Zaragoza two seasons ago when the team tried to get back to the ACB League from LEB Gold. Abos succeeded and returned the team to the top level last summer, while this year he has been able to secure an ACB spot for the next one six games before the end of the regular season. Abos thanked all the people in the club for all the help provided during the year and also explained that the fact the club met its targets so early made the deal easier. Abos stated that 'I'm very happy to stay. We started this project in LEB Gold and, as long as we secured an ACB spot for the next season, we ensured the project will continue'.

Spanish LEB Silver round 30 best performance: David Mesa - by Eurobasket News
Center David Mesa (200-C-80) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Clavijo, receiving a Eurobasket.com LEB Silver Player of the Week award for round 30.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 17 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Oviedo Feve (13-15) 103-90. Clavijo won the LEB Silver regular season with 25-3 record and earned a promotion to LEB Gold. Mesa turned to be Clavijo's top player in his first season with the team. David Mesa has solid league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 7.9rpg) and averages impressive 58.9% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old American Ian O'Leary (201-F-86) of Oviedo Feve. O'Leary had a very good evening with 30 points and 4 rebounds. Bad luck as Oviedo Feve lost that game 90-103 to the higher-ranked Clavijo (#1, 25-3). Oviedo Feve managed to keep the same 8th spot in the standings (13-15) and advanced to Playoffs. O'Leary is a newcomer at Oviedo Feve, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.0ppg (#4). He also registered 9.5 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American swingman Deforrest Smith (198-G/F-84, agency: KMG Sports Management) of Guadalajara. Smith showcased his all-around game by recording 17 points, nine rebounds and four assists in the last round. He was a key player of Guadalajara, leading his team to a 62-56 win against Illescas (8-20). Guadalajara registered 8-20 record and finished as No.13. Smith had a very solid season. In 27 games in Spain he scored 13.7ppg. He also has 4.2rpg and FGP: 53.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) of Avila - 12 points and 11 rebounds
5. David Ortega (199-F/C-84) of Promobys - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Charles Ramsdell (208-F/C-85) of Avila - 17 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Pablo Sanchez (197-G/F-81) of Andorra - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Reginald Bratton (193-G/F-86) of Lan Mobel ISB - 21 points and 4 rebounds
9. Sidnei De Santana (215-C-83) of Clavijo - 14 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Enrique Suarez (185-G-83) of Clavijo - 15 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists

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

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


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Darius HARGROVE
  Jamtland
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Hargrove, Jamtland21.9 
 2. Brown, 0820.5 
 3. Smith, Sodertalje19.9 
 4. Palm, Boras19.4 
 5. Smith, Uppsala18.8 
 6. Rush, Sundsvall18.6 
 7. McCoy, Boras18.4 
 8. Wesby, Sundsvall18.0 
 9. Gunnarsson, Solna17.1 
 10. Ryan, Boras16.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael PALM
  Boras
  (208-C-79)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. Palm, Boras10.3 
 2. Baeringsson, Sunds.10.1 
 3. Kosmalski, Solna8.6 
 4. McKnight, Boras8.5 
 5. Brown, 087.9 
 6. Kjellbom, Norrkoping7.7 
 7. Cipriano, Eco O.7.5 
 8. Constantine, Solna7.5 
 9. Walker, Solna7.5 
 10. Levett, LF Basket7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (181-G-87)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Mbemba, LF Basket6.3 
 2. Pleick, Eco Orebro5.5 
 3. Beck, 085.1 
 4. Chuk, Sodertalje4.5 
 5. McCoy, Boras4.4 
 6. Smith, Uppsala4.4 
 7. Mitchell, Norrkoping4.1 
 8. Hellgren, Jamtland4.0 
 9. Smith, Sodertalje4.0 
 10. Sigurdarson, Sunds.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 3
 1. Smith, Sodertalje3.0 
 2. Mbemba, LF Basket2.9 
 3. Hargrove, Jamtland1.9 
 4. Pleick, Eco Orebro1.8 
 5. Hellgren, Jamtland1.8 
 6. Smith, Uppsala1.8 
 7. Rush, Sundsvall1.7 
 8. Brown, 081.7 
 9. McCoy, Boras1.7 
 10. Baeringsson, Sunds.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 John ROSENDAHL
  LF Basket
  (203-F/C-77)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Rosendahl, LF Ba.1.9 
 2. Salaam, Jamtland1.8 
 3. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.6 
 4. Palm, Boras1.4 
 5. Cipriano, Eco O.1.3 
 6. Constantine, Solna1.2 
 7. Kohlmaier, Uppsala1.1 
 8. Ayuba, Norrkoping0.9 
 9. Walker, Solna0.9 
 10. Mosley, Eco Orebro0.8 


Basketligan Semifinals: LF Basket forces Game Five against Dolphins - by Eurobasket News
Game 4: Norrkoping - LF Basket 66-73 (2-2)

LF Basket celebrated in Game Four on the road tying the score to 2-2 in the series. Fifth decisive game will be played at the LF Basket's home court on Wednesday. The winner will join Sundsvall Dragons in the Finals. The Finals series is scheduled to start on Friday.
The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 73-66. LF Basket forced 19 Norrkoping Dolphins turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international guard Rudy Mbemba (181-87) who helped to win the game recording 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and American swingman Tyrone Levett (195-80, college: Alabama St.) who added 17 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side American guard George Gervin (189-76, college: Houston) responded with 14 points and international power forward Joakim Kjellbom (213-79, college: N.Arizona) scored 11 points and 5 rebounds. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.

Top scorers:
Norrkoping: G.Gervin 14+4reb+2ast, J.Kjellbom 11+5reb, P.Sakinis 10+3reb, M.Lindqvist 8+5reb, A.Saks 7+1reb+1ast, A.Mitchell 7+1reb+2ast
LF Basket: R.Mbemba 24+6reb+4ast, T.Levett 17+11reb+2ast, J.Rosendahl 12+4reb, M.Pahlmblad 6+4reb+1ast, T.Woodbury 5+4reb+1ast, E.Salon 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 127149




*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


LNB Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Swiss Central and Vevey force deciders - by Eurobasket News
Swiss Central - Neuchatel 68-62

Swiss Central celebrated a home win and forced the decider in the series. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Neuchatel won fourth quarter 14-12. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Rolf Stallkamp (200-F-78) came up with 24 points to lead Swiss Central. Michael Pluess (186-G/F-90) added 14 points in the win. Mike Jefferson (178-G-84, college: High Point) responded with 27 points, 5 boards and 4 assists for Neuchatel.
gschID: 126523


Vevey - Bernex 80-63

Domenico Marcario (180-G-79) posted 25 points to lead Vevey to the initial win over Bernex. The game was mostly controlled by Vevey. Bernex was better in second period 18-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Patrick Bovet (188-G-90) contributed 14 points in the winning effort.
gschID: 126522




*****************************************************
  TANZANIA   


Dream Team off to Nairobi for inter-city meet - by Carlos Pereira
Dar es Salaams men basketball team today travels to Nairobi for the Inter-city championship albeit without their women side.Cash-strapped Dar es Salaam Basketball (BD) disclosed that they failed to raise enough money to field two teams.

Speaking during a news conference yesterday, BD president Simon Msofe said their efforts to send two teams hit the brick wall, thus the Dream Team will be the only representatives.
Our intention was to be represented by two teams, but our efforts to raise funds were to no avail, so we had no option but to send one team, he said.
The five-day tournament, which gets underway tomorrow, will see seven cities battle it out.
The cities are: Mombasa, Tanga, Kampala, Dar es Salaam, Juba, Mogadishu, Arusha and host Nairobi.
The Dream Team squad leaving for Nairobi today comprises: Murshid Mudricat, Tony Jeikanga, Gilbert Batungi, George Tarimo, Sylivian Maige, Mohamed Yusuf, Cray Bony and Samwel Sige.
Others are: Adam Jegame, Frank Kusiga, Francis Mlewa, Frank Mwemezi, Alpha Kisusi and Amos Mgwassa.
The team will be under the tutelage of coaches Bahati Mgunda and Dassy Makula. (By Brown Msyani)


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


Central beats nemesis Complex to win varsity basketball crown - by David Edole
Evident by the last month's NCAA Division-I men's basketball tournament, winning the most games during the regular season doesn't guarantee a team anything when tournament time rolls around.

The Central High School boys basketball team proved that fact again last weekend.

After dropping four of five contests against Educational Complex during the year, the Caribs re-grouped and rolled to a 58-43 victory over the host Barracudas in the St. Croix IAA varsity boys basketball tournament championship on Sunday.

Central, which repeated as tourney champions, entered the four-team tournament as the No. 2 seed and knocked off the Educational Complex B squad in the semifinals to advance. Top-seeded Complex A sunk Country Day in the other semifinal matchup.

'We had a great game plan and we won every quarter,' said Caribs coach Donald Bough, whose team held a slim 25-21 lead at halftime. 'This team has overcome a lot of adversity. We had some guys on this team that had never played organized basketball before but you could see them improve with each game.'

Senior point guard Kadeem Jones (94) led the way for Central with a game-high 13 points. For the second year in a row, Jones was the floor general for the Caribs but his senior campaign proved to be a challenge.

Before the season started, three Central starters from last year transferred to private schools on the U.S. Mainland and Jones was one of five seniors left to lead a re-vamped squad.

'Rebuilding was tough,' Bough said. 'Little by little, we kept getting better. This year, we were the hunter instead of the hunted and I think our guys liked that role.'

Jamaal James added 12 points for Central, which outscored the Barracudas 20-10 in the final period to pull away for good. Amali Krigger paced the Complex in scoring with seven points.

Before the game tipped off, both teams went to midcourt and took part in a brief moment of silence for late Central coach Alvin Jarvis and former Country Day basketball player Kyle Greenidge.

Jarvis, who coached the Caribs boys basketball team for many years and fell ill before this season, died of a heart attack last week. Greenidge graduated from AZ Academy last year and was a standout basketball player for Country Day. He was fatally shot over the weekend.

'Not everything in life evolves around basketball,' Bough said. 'Those two tragedies really put things in perspective for our players. I think at the end of the day, we need to know that we can put rivalries aside and come together as one.'

Country Day tops Central for boys junior varsity title

Nick Springer had a team-high 22 points and Marcus Moorehead added 20 more as Country Day edged Central, 69-64, in the St. Croix IAA boys junior varsity basketball final on Friday.

The Tigers put the finishing touches on a perfect 17-0 record, which included tournament wins.

'We hit some big free throws in the end and I think all the hard work really paid off for these boys,' said Country Day coach Lenny Redwine, whose team avenged last year's tourney final loss to the Caribs.

Chandler Blachlca converted six 3-pointers and knocked down a fourth-quarter trey to help his team seal the victory. Redwine said Jordan Evans had two key blocks on defense while Moorehead led the team in rebounds.

After the Tigers opened a 44-23 halftime advantage, Central's Naybo Gonzales scored 12 points in the third quarter to help his team get back in the contest. Gonzales led the Caribs in scoring and finished with 22 points in the game.

By AARON GRAY (Daily News Staff)
Published: April 18, 2011

*****************************************************
  UBA   


Standings
UBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Southeast H. 17-4 
 2. Cleveland V. 16-4 
 3. Columbus C. 9-10 
 4. Colonial F. 4-14 
 5. NE Air Soul 1-18 
Southern
 1. S.Generals 32-5 
 2. GIE Morrow D. 29-14 
 3. Atlanta A. 16-10 
 4. Georgia L. 10-17 
 5. St.Mountain H. 3-22 
Western
 1. C.Texas C. 21-5 
 2. Tennessee D. 20-11 
 3. Norman E. 17-8 
 4. Austin K. 12-11 
 5. DFW Warriors 12-12 
D-League
 1. Irie M. 0-0 
 2. Proline 0-0 
 3. Team Japan 0-0 
Travel Teams
 1. Columbus Crush 9-2 
 2. Dallas Star 8-19 
 3. Houston X. 6-0 
 4. Oklahoma S. 1-22 
 5. Nashville B. 0-11 
 6. Metro Atlanta 0-18 


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


Mays number one in Ukraine for round 50 - by Eurobasket News
American guard Keddric Mays (183-G-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Ferro-ZNTU Zaporozhye, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 50.
The 26-year old player was the main contributor (24 points, two rebounds and five assists) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Khimik (#12, 16-32) 96-91. Ferro-ZNTU maintains the 6th position in Ukrainian Superleague. Ferro-ZNTU 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 25-23 record. In the team's last game Mays had a remarkable three three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be Ferro-ZNTU's top player in his first season with the team. Keddric Mays averages this season 14.1ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 28-year old American Mario Austin (206-F/C-82, agency: Strategic Sports) of Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk. Austin had a very good evening with 21 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Bad luck as Dnipro lost that game 86-91 to the higher-ranked Hoverla (#4, 30-18). Dnipro managed to keep the same 7th spot in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 24-24 record is not bad and everything may still change. Austin is a newcomer at Dnipro, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American guard Curtis Millage (185-G-81) of Khimik-OPZ Yuzny (#12). Millage showcased his all-around game by recording 16 points, five rebounds and five assists in the last round. Despite Millage's great performance Khimik lost 91-96 to the higher-ranked Ferro-ZNTU (#6, 25-23). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Khimik not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 32 games, recording just sixteen victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Millage could try to bring Khimik's a little bit higher in the standings. Millage has individually a great season in Ukraine. After 48 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 14.9ppg (7th best) and assists with 4.5apg (8th best). He also has 2.4spg and FGP: 55.8%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Artem Shvets (203-G/F-85) of BC Odessa - 10 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Dante Swanson (178-G-81) of Hoverla - 14 points, 2 rebounds and 10 assists
6. Christian Burns (203-F-85) of Ferro-ZNTU - 16 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Justin Love (188-G-78) of Mykolaiv - 16 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
8. John DeGroat (198-F-85) of BC Odessa - 21 points and 4 rebounds
9. Charles Thomas (203-F-86) of Azovmash - 17 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Steve Burtt (185-G-84) of Dnipro - 18 points, 3 rebounds and 9 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)

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


BBL Play Off Round Up Monday 18 April - by Paul Nilsen
The One Health Sharks Sheffield completed the line-up for the Final Four of the BBL Championship play-offs as they overturned a 15 point deficit from the first leg as they defeated the Glasgow Rocks 73-94 at Kelvin Hall on Monday evening giving the visitors a 156-162 aggregate result over the two legs.

With the Rocks leading 83-68 from the first leg in Sheffield, both sides traded baskets throughout the majority of the first two quarters, but the visitors bagged the final 10 points of the first half to lead 32-42 heading into the second half.

The Rocks kept themselves in the game in the third quarter as the sides traded baskets and the Sharks were able to increase their lead by a point to 48-59 heading into the final stanza, but in the final quarter back-to-back three-pointers from Ryan Patton (181-G-78, college: Youngstown St.) and nine points from Olu Babalola gave the Sharks the lead on the night at 55-76, as well as the lead on aggregate for the first time in the contest with 6:05 remaining in the game.

A 10-3 run from the Sharks extended their lead to 65-88 with less than a minute remaining and despite three pointers from EJ Harrison and Moses Mubarak, the Sharks held on to secure the victory on the night, and on aggregate, from the foul-line.

The Sharks will now face the Newcastle Eagles in the semi-finals while the other semi-final sees the BBL Champions Mersey Tigers facing the Cheshire Jets as the top four in the League make up the line-up for the Final Four.



BBL Team Of The Week - Week 30 - by Paul Nilsen
There have not been many more important times during the current season for our players to put in stellar performances than during the BBL play-off quarter-finals over the weekend. In addition, it was also the last opportunity for them to try and make our all-important starting five as we bring you the very last BBL Team Of The Week of the 2010-11 season.

Reggie Jackson (Newcastle Eagles)

Arguably the form player of not just last weekend when he produced the best performance of anybody in our starting five, but also of the last couple of months, Jackson has been the main lifeline for the Eagles of late. His performances have pretty much been the reason behind Newcastle extending their season and they would have surely crashed and burned against Guildford Heat had Jackson not conjured up another wonderful effort. His performance valuation of 34 came by way of a massive double-double consisting of 28 points and a mind boggling 14 assists. Not surprisingly Jackson claimed it was one of the best performances of his pro-career.

Ryan Patton (One Health Sharks Sheffield)

While not quite a miracle, the Sharks overturning the 15 point first leg quarter-final deficit against Rocks was about as impressive a result as you will find during the past 7 months of action. Much of that was due to the continued work of Patton, a regular in our line-up during the regular season and now a member in the post-season too. He poured in 23 points including four pivotal triples to help his team to a memorable play-off success. He also showed his coolness from the free-throw line making seven of seven to cement the Sharks place in the semi-finals.

Andrew Lasker (188-G-82, college: Point Loma) (Newcastle Eagles)

While backcourt partner Reggie Jackson has been taking the plaudits of late, Drew Lasker muscled in on the headlines with a really top display at Guildford Heat when he almost single handedly carried the Eagles home and back from the brink. Having seen their first leg lead evaporate in double-quick time, the visitors were on the ropes for long periods and with their last chance of silverware and indeed entire season ebbing away, Lasker came up trumps. The former Raiders man claimed a vital 26 points including a perfect two triples, one of which was a buzzer beater to give his team fresh impetus heading into the latter stages of the game.

Matt Schneck (Cheshire Jets)

Matt Schneck is no stranger to our line-up despite missing a large chunk of the season. His value to Jets was captured by his terrific double-double of 13 points and 16 rebounds in the second leg of the quarter final against UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders which set up a mouth-watering semi-final tie with North West derby rivals Mersey Tigers. His 5 offensive boards in particular were significant while he was an economical 5 of 7 inside to show he can finish when it matters in the big games.

Paul Williams (One Health Sharks Sheffield)

While team-mate Ryan Patton was leading the way in the backcourt for One Health Sharks Sheffield in Glasgow, Williams was sorting out the rescue mission in the frontcourt with a majestic 20 points, 9 rebounds, 2 blocks and a steal. What those numbers dont explain is just how hot to handle Williams was inside as he got the Rocks into serious foul trouble giving a platform to push on for the victory. Another classy performance by Williams during his first year in British Basketball.

BBL Team Of The Week

Reggie Jackson (Newcastle Eagles)
Ryan Patton (One Health Sharks Sheffield)
Drew Lasker (Newcastle Eagles)
Matt Schneck (Cheshire Jets)
Paul Williams (One Health Sharks Sheffield)

Off The Bench
Nate Reinking (Mersey Tigers), Quemont Greer (Cheshire Jets), Jeremy Bell (Cheshire Jets), JR Blount (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders), James Whyte (Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders), Chez Marks (Marjon UCP Plymouth Raiders)


BBLPlay Off Semi-Finals Announced - by Paul Nilsen
The semi-final line-up for the BBL Championship Play-offs has now been confirmed and sees the top 4 sides after the regular season contesting the Final Four of the postseason.

BBL League Champions, Mersey Tigers will face the Cheshire Jets, while the Newcastle Eagles will face the One Health Sharks Sheffield in two-legged semi-finals.

Mersey Tigers (1st) v Cheshire Jets (4th)
1st Leg Saturday 23rd @ Northgate Arena, Chester (7.30pm)
2nd Leg Sunday 24th @ Amaechi Centre, Manchester (6.00pm)

Newcastle Eagles (2nd) v One Health Sharks Sheffield (3rd)
1st Leg Friday 22nd @ Sport Central, Newcastle (7.30pm)
2nd Leg Sunday 24th @ EIS, Sheffield (3.00pm)


Stats Leaders - BBL
Points Per Game
 Trey MOORE
  Newcastle
  (192-G-75)
  Avg: 23
 1. Moore, Newcastle23.0 
 2. Bell, Cheshire Jets22.9 
 3. Jackson, Newcastle21.4 
 4. Smith, Newcastle21.0 
 5. Bolds, MK Lions20.4 
 6. Blount, Leices.20.3 
 7. Gilbert, Worcester20.0 
 8. Nelson, MK Lions19.9 
 9. Greer, Cheshire.19.9 
 10. Chapman, Newcastle19.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Matt SCHNECK
  Cheshire Jets
  (203-C-88)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Schneck, Cheshire.10.8 
 2. Durant, Worthing9.4 
 3. Myers, MK Lions9.3 
 4. Rowe, Plymouth8.9 
 5. Williams, Sheffi.8.6 
 6. Greer, Cheshire.8.3 
 7. Tuck, Sheffiel.8.2 
 8. Toney, Liverpoo.8.2 
 9. Cricelli, Worcester8.2 
 10. Dobbins, Worcester7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Trey MOORE
  Newcastle
  (192-G-75)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Moore, Newcastle6.1 
 2. Blount, Leices.5.2 
 3. Clark, MK Lions5.1 
 4. Medlock, Guildfor.4.6 
 5. Zabas, Plymouth4.5 
 6. Middleton, Worce.4.5 
 7. Bolds, MK Lions4.3 
 8. Jackson, Newcastle4.0 
 9. Chapman, Newcastle3.8 
 10. Marks, Plymouth3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Demarius BOLDS
  MK Lions
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Bolds, MK Lions2.8 
 2. Jackson, Newcastle2.3 
 3. Middleton, Worce.2.2 
 4. Bell, Cheshire Jets2.0 
 5. McLemore, Guildf.1.9 
 6. Gill, MK Lions1.8 
 7. Murray, Cheshire.1.8 
 8. Dagostino, Sheffi.1.8 
 9. Moore, Newcastle1.8 
 10. Prezzie-Blue, Worth.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Kadiri RICHARD
  Newcastle
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Richard, Newcastle2.1 
 2. Polk, Plymouth1.9 
 3. Williams, Sheffi.1.3 
 4. Potter, Leices.1.0 
 5. Sturt, Essex P.1.0 
 6. Dobbins, Worcester0.9 
 7. Nelson, MK Lions0.8 
 8. Toney, Liverpoo.0.8 
 9. Rowe, Plymouth0.7 
 10. Williams, Leices.0.6 


*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Standings - Metropolitan League
Metropolitan Standings
 1. Larranaga 4-0 
 2. Nacional 3-0 
 3. Urunday Univ. 3-1 
 4. Goes 2-1 
 5. Tabare 2-1 
 6. Atenas 1-2 
 7. Yale 1-2 
 8. 25 de Agosto 0-3 
 9. Capitol 0-3 
 10. Verdirrojo 0-3 


*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Cocodrilos 20-4 
 2. Marinos 19-6 
 3. Trotamundos 16-8 
 4. Guaiqueries 12-11 
 5. Gigantes 12-14 
 6. Bucaneros 11-13 
 7. Toros 11-15 
 8. Panteras 10-16 
 9. Guaros 9-17 
 10. Gaiteros 4-20 


LPB Round 31 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
Toros - Panteras 96-77
The game in Maracay was quite interesting. 7th ranked Panteras (10-16) played at the court of eighth ranked Toros (11-15). Toros did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 96-77 on Monday. Toros moved-up to seventh place. Panteras at the other side dropped to the eighth position with 16 games lost. Toros are again looking forward to face Panteras (#8) in Caracas in the next round. Panteras will have a break tomorrow.
gschID: 121528


Guaiqueries - Guaros 88-74
Very expected game in Porlamar where 9th ranked Guaros (9-17) were defeated by fifth ranked Guaiqueries (12-11) 88-74 on Monday. Guaiqueries moved-up to fourth place. Guaros lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 17 games lost. Guaiqueries are again looking forward to face Guaros (#9) in Barquisimeto in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Guaros will have a break tomorrow.
gschID: 121529




*****************************************************
  ZAMBIA   


Afrobasket Qulalification Hope Diminish - by Eurobasket News
ALL hope for Zambia to qualify to the AfroBasket U18 African Championship next year, is all but lost after the boys team narrowly lost to Zimbabwe 55-52 at the Zone Six Cup of Nations U16 championship that comes to an end in Lusaka today.

The boys' team, who started the tournament on a high after defeating Botswana 127-10 baskets, was reduced to chasing their own shadows against highly-fancied Mozambique and South African teams who humbled them 81-54 and 81-71 respectively in the ensuing games.

The Zambians were by press time playing Angola in an insignificant match that would have no bearing on the final match of the tournament which is likely to pit defending champions South Africa against Mozambique who are both at six points.

Coach for the boys' team, Noah Mabutwe described the performance of his lads as impressive considering the time frame that the team had to prepare and the inadequate resources that were allocated for the programme.

Mabutwe advised the fans not expect the best from his team because the players were not exposed to international competitions compared to South Africa, Mozambique and Angola that had a good international programme for basketball.

He urged the Zambia Basketball Association (ZBA) to maintain the team because most of the players were talented and could graduate into experienced players that the association could use during the Under-20 international tournament that Zambia will host next year.
And girls coach Joseph Chowa said his players had potential which should be utilized through training and sponsorship in a bid to create reliable professional players.

Chowa appealed to the association to appoint coaches in good time to foster early identification, selection and training of players for the national tournaments arguing that no coach can perform wonders within a short period of time that was allocated for the programme.

Other games played on Wednesday saw Mozambique boys' team humiliating Botswana 110-25, South Africa crumbled a Zambian girls' side 96-37, and Zimbabwe beat Botswana 176-06, while South Africa boys' team beat Angola 44-35.

The Zambia girls' team closes the tournament today with a game in hand against Mozambique.
Courtesy of: Times of Zambia



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

Women News

*****************************************************
  ANGOLA - Women  


1 de Agosto beat Maculusso in Hoji Ya Henda cup - by Eurobasket News
Luanda - 1 de Agosto beato n Monday Desportivo do Maculusso by 73-25 in Luandas Rio Seco pavilion, in the opening of the senior and junior females basketball tournament dubbed Hoji Ya Henda Cup.


The tournament will be played on 18-22 April.


In the first half, 1 de Agosto were already winning the match by 40-11.


The competition is being held in order to celebrate the Angolan Youths Day, marked on 14 April and it is jointly being organised by the Provincial Basketball Association of Luanda and Provincial Committee of the Youth Wing of the ruling party (JMPLA).
Courtesy of: portalangop.co.ao







*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA - Women  


SEABL Round Three Results - by Eurobasket News
Saturday 16th April

Championship Women
DANDENONG 100 (Guest 14, Cumming 13) def GEELONG 64 (Aubry 26, Smith 15)

Dandenong dominated the game early, establishing a 10pt lead after the first 5mins. The Rangers continued to pressure the Supercats into costly mistakes, and punished them with successful offence. Dandenong coach Larissa Anderson was able to give all players valuable minutes with seven players recording 20+mins and five players scoring double digit figures.

MVP Faith Probst & Catherine Guest (185-F-89) (Dandenong)

Sunday 17th April

Championship Women
DANDENONG 65 (Elyse Penaluna (193-C-88) 24, Terdich 8) def BRISBANE 40 (Kate McMeeken-Ruscoe (170-G-79, college: Buffalo) 11, Pryor 7)

Brisbane struggled all game at the offensive end, shooting a poor 29% from the field and produced their lowest score since joining the SEABL in 2007. Brisbane also recorded their second highest total in Turnovers with 31 for the game. Dandenong dominated the first term to lead 20-8, and increased their lead throughout the remainder of the match.

MVP Elyse Penaluna (Dandenong)
Courtesy of: dandenongbasketball.com.au



SEABL: Blues Split v. Sandy - by Eurobasket News
The Frankston 'Globalgreen International' Lady Blues and the 'White Cleland' Blues split their doubleheader with the Sandringham Sabres on Sunday afternoon at the Frankston Basketball Centre.

The Lady Blues overcame a slow start and arm-wrestled the young Sabres all game long, but out-scored their visitors by 16-13 in the final quarter to eke out their 4th win of the season to remain undefeated in the SEABL D-League competition.

The Lady Blues upped their intensity on defence in the second half after being dead locked at 22 all going into the break. Poor shooting from the perimeter (1 of 17 3 pointers) prevented Frankston from pulling away, and their excellent work at the free throw line (12 of 15) proved to be the difference in the end, winning 53-49.

Leading scorer for the Lady Blues was Jessica Thompson with 13 points and Chelsea Bull had 9 points and 7 rebounds. Rebekka Mawdsley was the Blues leading rebounder with 11 boards and also added 8 points.
Courtesy of: frankstonbasketball.asn.au



*****************************************************
  BOSNIA - Women  


Savic wins the title abroad - by Eurobasket News
Bosnian Biljana Savic (191-C-83) wins the title abroad as her ICIM Arad clinched 2010/2011 trophy. The team overcame Satu Mare 61:57 in Game 4 to win the title. The hosts trailed by 3 points after three quarters before their 15-8 charge, which allowed them to win the game. ICIM Arad made 19-of-24 free shots (79.2 percent) during the game. They also forced 22 Satu Mare turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international center Gabriela Toma who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds and American guard Cherrise Graham who added 23 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. ICIM Arad's coach Stacey Nolan used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side international forward Claudia Pop responded with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists and Latvian center Anita Teilane scored 16 points and 8 rebounds.
In Game 3 Biljana Savic scored 6 points as ICIM Arad edged Satu Mare 71:63. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Strangely Satu Mare outrebounded ICIM Arad 46-29 including a 15-2 advantage in offensive rebounds. 25 personal fouls committed by Satu Mare helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a great evening for American guard Cherrise Graham who led her team to a victory scoring 29 points and 5 rebounds. The former international center Gabriela Toma helped adding 9 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. The best for the losing side was Latvian center Anita Teilane with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 17 rebounds and 4 assists and American power forward Latoya Drake produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. Four Satu Mare players scored in double figures.



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


Tamara Sutton-Brown wins fifth straight title in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Tamara Sutton-Brown (193-C-78, college: Rutgers) joined Fenerbahce Istanbul recently and it was a great move as they managed to win the Turkish league title on Sunday. It is seventh straight title for Fenerbahce and fifth for Sutton-Brown. She played for the club last four years and rejoined them in February this year. For 5 games in the league Sutton-Brown averaged 7.6 points and 6.2 rebounds. She also appeared 4 times in Euroleague adding 1.5 ppg. Fenerbahce was also one of the main contenders for the Euroleague title this season, but they were not able to make it. One of the main reasons could be false doping affair of Diana Taurasi. The contract of American superstar was terminated and Fenerbahce was not the same team after that. Anyway, it was another winning season for Fener and for Tamara Sutton-Brown as well, who will play in WNBA this summer. Last four years she was a member of the Indiana Fever.

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


Standings - Women
A1 Stage Two Standings
Group A
 1. Jolly 9-1 
 2. Gospic 9-1 
 3. Lupa Promot. 6-4 
 4. Studenec O. 4-6 
 5. Medvescak 1-9 
 6. Biska Pula 1-9 
Group B
 1. Croatia 2006 4-2 
 2. Zadar 3-2 
 3. Pozega 3-3 
 4. Split 3-3 
 5. Agram 1-4 
Stage One Standings


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


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Frida ELDEBRINK
  Frisco Sika
  (174-G-88)
  Avg: 21
 1. Eldebrink, Frisco S.21.0 
 2. Milton-Jones, USK P.19.4 
 3. Reisingerova, Strako.17.6 
 4. Halvarsson, Frisco S.16.8 
 5. Johnova, Strakonice16.5 
 6. Vlkova, Valosun .16.4 
 7. Viteckova, USK P.16.1 
 8. Snajdrova-Z., Trutn.15.5 
 9. Misurova, Trutnov14.7 
 10. Ford, Frisco Sika14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Cheryl FORD
  Frisco Sika
  (191-F/C-81)
  Avg: 13
 1. Ford, Frisco Sika13.0 
 2. Reisingerova, Strako.10.3 
 3. Vecerova, Valosun .9.8 
 4. Kulichova, USK P.7.8 
 5. Milton-Jones, USK P.7.4 
 6. Skerovic, Frisco Sika7.3 
 7. Snajdrova-Z., Trutn.6.9 
 8. Stepanova, VS Praha6.7 
 9. Halvarsson, Frisco S.6.7 
 10. Sipova, Slovanka.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Hana NEZDARILOVA-STANKOVA
  Slovanka MB
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Nezdarilova-S., Slovan.5.7 
 2. Skerovic, Frisco Sika5.3 
 3. Uhrova, Strakonice4.1 
 4. Whalen, USK Praha3.3 
 5. Johnova, Strakonice3.1 
 6. Viteckova, USK P.2.7 
 7. Eldebrink, Frisco S.2.7 
 8. Brantlova, VS Praha2.6 
 9. Kysilkova, Hradec K.2.6 
 10. Hrabakova, Karlovy .2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Hana NEZDARILOVA-STANKOVA
  Slovanka MB
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Nezdarilova-S., Slovan.3.2 
 2. Skerovic, Frisco Sika2.8 
 3. Brantlova, VS Praha2.4 
 4. Uhrova, Strakonice2.3 
 5. Johnova, Strakonice2.2 
 6. Milton-Jones, USK P.2.1 
 7. Whalen, USK Praha2.1 
 8. Novotna, Slovanka.2.0 
 9. Snajdrova-Z., Trutn.1.9 
 10. Misurova, Trutnov1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Michaela HARTIGOVA
  Hradec Kralove
  (192-C-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hartigova, Hradec K.1.8 
 2. Kulichova, USK P.1.4 
 3. Vecerova, Valosun .1.2 
 4. Novakova, Trutnov0.8 
 5. Milton-Jones, USK P.0.8 
 6. Sipova, Slovanka.0.8 
 7. Stepanova, VS Praha0.7 
 8. Halvarsson, Frisco S.0.7 
 9. Reisingerova, Strako.0.7 
 10. Vodrazkova, Slovanka.0.6 


Hana Horakova shines in Turkish league Finals, helps Fenerbahce to defend the title - by Eurobasket News
It was the first season abroad for Hana Horakova (182-F/G-79) and it was a great one. The Czech Republic National Team guard helped Fenerbahce to beat Galatasaray with almost perfect 3-1 in the Finals and to win their seventh straight championship title. Horakova was one of their best players in the Finals series. In the fourth game she drained 15 points for 29 minutes on the court. In Game Three, which allowed Fenerbahce to take 2-1 lead, Horakova shined with 14 points and 6 rebounds.
Hana Horakova joined Fenerbahce last summer after many years with Gambrinus Sika Brno. She appeared 26 times in Turkish league collecting 6.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 2.4 apg. In Euroleague, Horakova added 4.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 1.7 apg. Horakova is active member of the Czech Republic National Team. At the World Championship 2010 she had 12.1 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 3.9 apg.

USK Praha grabs 1-0 Final lead over Frisco Sika - by Eurobasket News
FINAL
Frisco Sika - USK Praha 73-83

USK Praha grabs 1-0 Final lead over Frisco Sika as they enjoyed the road win on the opener. The game was mostly controlled by USK Praha. Frisco Sika managed to win fourth quarter 22-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international forward Eva Viteckova (189-82) who helped to win the game recording 27 points. The former international center Petra Kulichova (198-84) contributed with 8 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. American power forward Cheryl Ford (191-81, college: Louisiana Tech, agency: Josep and Nicolas) answered with 6 points and 21 rebounds and Swedish guard Frida Eldebrink (174-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 19 points in the effort for Frisco Sika. Four Frisco Sika players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Frisco Sika: F.Eldebrink 19+3reb+3ast, L.Halvarsson 18+5reb, J.Skerovic 11+7reb+2ast, R.Hejdova 11+2reb, A.Hanusova 6+2reb, C.Ford 6+21reb
USK Praha: E.Viteckova 27+4reb+1ast, D.Milton-Jones 15+3reb, K.Elhotova 10+1reb, L.Whalen 9+9reb+1ast, P.Kulichova 8+12reb, E.Maltsi 8+2reb
gschID: 127082




*****************************************************
  EL SALVADOR - Women  


El Salvador National Women Team for COCABA 2011 - by Greg
Aida Funes 168-G-84
Veronica Sosa 172-G/F-90 Survivor El Salvador
Karla Leiva 170-G-93
Kenia Campos 168-G-86 Survivor El Salvador
Lorena Simon 174-F-81 UTEC El Salvador
Vanessa Heredia 185-C-82 Survivor El Salvador
Gladis Maravilla 188-C-85 Survivor El Salvador
Maria Mendez 175-F-90
Monica Calderon 178-F-91
Rocio Palacios 176-F-85
Kryssia Urias 188-C-94
Yosselin Flores 172-G/F-92

Francisco Valle Head Coach El Slavador El Salvador
Juan Pablo Samour Assistant


*****************************************************
  HONDURAS - Women  


Honduras National Women Team for COCABA 2011 - by Greg
Ena Lobo 182-C-84 Ingenieros T. Honduras
Danalid Jackson 69 Ingenieros T. Honduras
Mildrem Martinez 177-F-84
Ariela Morazan 170-G-83
Francia Cruz 180-F/C-80
Hellen Williams 174-G-92
Tania Peralta 173-G-79 Ingenieros T. Honduras
Erika Banegas 79 Ingenieros T. Honduras
Sonia Fiallos 170-G-93
Fany Ruiz 180-C-87 Ingenieros T. Honduras
Tani Martinez 180-F/C-80

Henry Andino Head Coach
Karloman Bejarano Assistant


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  HUNGARY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Danielle PAGE
  ZTE
  (188-F-86)
  Avg: 18
 1. Page, ZTE18.0 
 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.14.2 
 7. Griffin, Pecs 201014.2 
 8. Cvetanovic, Szolnok13.6 
 9. Nemeth, Szeged13.6 
 10. Szemeredi, Atome.13.4 
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, ZTE9.2 
 4. Tamane, MKB Eurol.7.9 
 5. Pal, Vasas-Csata7.4 
 6. Olajuwon, SEAT L.7.3 
 7. Cvetanovic, Szolnok6.6 
 8. Krnjic, Pecs 20106.4 
 9. Kublina, SEAT L.6.2 
 10. Balla, Vasas-Csata6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Katarina RISTIC
  Szolnok
  (174-G-84)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Ristic, Szolnok5.3 
 2. Medgyessy, Atome.5.0 
 3. Ivanyi, Pecs 20104.8 
 4. Bukovszki, ZTE4.6 
 5. Nemeth, Szeged4.3 
 6. Darida, Nanette FTC4.3 
 7. Honti, MKB Eurol.3.9 
 8. Laczi, Szeged3.8 
 9. Boskovic, Szolnok3.7 
 10. Eordogh, Vasas-Cs.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Gina SZEPSI
  Bajai NKK
  (175-G-85)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Szepsi, Bajai NKK3.6 
 2. Bukovszki, ZTE3.4 
 3. Griffin, Pecs 20103.0 
 4. Laczi, Szeged3.0 
 5. Nemeth, Szeged2.8 
 6. Darida, Nanette FTC2.8 
 7. Zherzherunov., Sze.2.7 
 8. Medgyessy, Atome.2.7 
 9. Demeter, Atomeromu2.6 
 10. Russai, Nanette FTC2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Danielle PAGE
  ZTE
  (188-F-86)
  Avg: 2
 1. Page, ZTE2.0 
 2. Zherzherunov., Sze.1.7 
 3. Cvetanovic, Szolnok1.3 
 4. Ievtushenko, Atome.1.3 
 5. Tamane, MKB Eurol.1.1 
 6. Kublina, SEAT L.1.0 
 7. Griffin, Pecs 20100.9 
 8. Pap, Cegledi EKK0.8 
 9. Bagi, BEAC0.8 
 10. Hollingswort., SEAT L.0.8 


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  ITALY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Nicole ANTIBE
  Basket Parma
  (187-C/F-74)
  Avg: 15
 1. Antibe, Basket P.15.0 
 2. Hicks, Comense15.0 
 3. Moises Pinto, Fae.13.8 
 4. Pascalau, Priolo13.7 
 5. Dixon, Pozzuoli13.6 
 6. Mazzante, Pozzuoli13.5 
 7. Cirov, Priolo13.4 
 8. Ervin, Faenza13.2 
 9. Macchi, Familia Schio13.0 
 10. Willis, Lucca12.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lauren ERVIN
  Faenza
  (191-F-85)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Ervin, Faenza10.8 
 2. Gidden, Vomero NA10.1 
 3. Ujhelyi, Bracco G.9.8 
 4. Willis, Lucca9.2 
 5. Walker, Pozzuoli8.9 
 6. McCarville, Famili.8.4 
 7. Robert, Umbertide8.0 
 8. Stansbury, Umber.8.0 
 9. Antibe, Basket P.7.9 
 10. Ohlde, Umana Reyer7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Adriana MOISES PINTO
  Faenza
  (169-G-78)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Moises Pinto, Fae.4.1 
 2. Andrade, Lucca3.2 
 3. Cohen, Familia Schio3.0 
 4. Sottana, Umana R.2.8 
 5. Wambe, Taranto2.7 
 6. Zara, Umbertide2.6 
 7. Haynie, Bracco Geas2.4 
 8. Soli, Lucca2.4 
 9. Dixon, Pozzuoli2.3 
 10. Mahoney, Taranto2.3 
Steals Per Game
 Adriana MOISES PINTO
  Faenza
  (169-G-78)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Moises Pinto, Fae.4.5 
 2. Ohlde, Umana Reyer4.2 
 3. Kostaki, Umana R.3.9 
 4. Eric, Priolo3.8 
 5. Sottana, Umana R.3.7 
 6. Andrade, Lucca3.6 
 7. Willis, Lucca3.6 
 8. Ballardini, Umbertide3.5 
 9. Antibe, Basket P.3.5 
 10. Gidden, Vomero NA3.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Olena ZHERZHERUNOVA
  Szeged
  (191-F-78)
  Avg: 0.9
 1. Zherzherunov., Fae.0.9 
 2. Ujhelyi, Bracco G.0.9 
 3. Godin, Taranto0.8 
 4. Sowinski, Comense0.7 
 5. Antibe, Basket P.0.7 
 6. McCarville, Famili.0.7 
 7. Ogorodnikova, Umana R.0.6 
 8. Stansbury, Umber.0.5 
 9. Ohlde, Umana Reyer0.5 
 10. Aziz, Basket Parma0.5 


A1: Familia Schio sweeps Umbertide 3-0 to reach the Finals, Bracco Geas still alive against Taranto - by Eurobasket News
Third games of the Playoff Semifinals were played last night. Familia Schio became the first A1 finalist after they swept Umbertide with perfect 3-0. In the other semifinals series, Bracco Geas surprised Taranto on the road coming to 1-2. They will meet in Game Four on Thursday and Bracco Geas will be the host.



Taranto - Bracco Geas 56-62 (1-2)
The guests trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 40-27 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Bracco Geas made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. It was a good game for Australian center Laura Summerton (191-83) who led her team to a victory with 15 points and 5 rebounds. International swingman Martina Crippa (175-88) contributed with 12 points for the winners. American forward Megan Mahoney (183-83, college: Kansas St., agency: LBM Management) answered with 10 points and 7 rebounds and guard Michelle Greco (176-80) added 15 points and 4 steals in the effort for Cras Taranto. Cras Taranto's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Bracco Geas: L.Summerton 15+5reb+1ast, M.Crippa 12+2reb+3ast, N.Wabara 10+3reb+1ast, P.Ujhelyi 9+8reb, K.Haynie 6+7reb+2ast, G.Arturi 5+1reb
Taranto: M.Greco 15+3reb, M.Mahoney 10+7reb+2ast, K.Wambe 8+1reb+2ast, D.Dacic 8+6reb, S.Young 5+2reb, S.Giauro 3+2reb+3ast

gschID: 127193


Familia Schio - Umbertide 67-63 (3-0)
It looked good early as Liomatic Umbertide took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Familia Schio had a 21-15 second period charge getting the lead and Liomatic Umbertide was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 63-67. It was a great evening for the former international forward Raffaella Masciadri (185-80) who led her team to a victory scoring 21 points. The former international forward Laura Macchi (187-79) helped adding 17 points and 7 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American power forward Tiffany Stansbury (191-83, college: N.Carolina St.) with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds and the former international guard Francesca Zara (177-76, agency: Players Group) scored 11 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Liomatic Umbertide players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Familia Schio: R.Masciadri 21+4reb+2ast, L.Macchi 17+7reb+3ast, I.Yacoubou-Dehoui 8+7reb+1ast, J.Nadalin 7+6reb, L.Cohen 7+3reb+1ast, C.Pastore 5+1reb+2ast
Umbertide: T.Stansbury 15+13reb+2ast, C.Consolini 14+3reb+1ast, M.Jovanovic 12+2reb, F.Zara 11+6reb+4ast, S.Cinili 10+4reb, G.Gorini 1+5reb+2ast
gschID: 127192




*****************************************************
  KENYA - Women  


Tigoi Meet Shimba in Final Duel - by Eurobasket News
Kenya Secondary Schools Term One Games basketball champions Tigoi girls yesterday booked a date in the final with arch-rivals Shimba Hills from Coast province after eliminating their opponents in their respective semi-final matches played yesterday. The two sides also met in the final last year at Upper Hill School, where Tigoi emerged top.

To sail to the final, Tigoi beat newcomers Ogande from Nyanza 110-57 in the first semi-final while Shimba Hills overcame the other newcomers, Rift Valley's Laiser Hill 56-36.

Tigoi, who are also the regional basketball champions first won the Basketball title in 1992 before losing it the following year to Kisumu Girls. They won it again in 2004 only to surrender it to Mombasa High the following year. Mombasa clung onto the title for four years in a row.

Tigoi, representing Western commanded the game from the word go taking the first quarter at 33-10. The losers, who are appearing at the nation scene for the first time, put up little resistance to the well-oiled side that went on to prove they are not the regional queens by mistake.

Tigoi won the second and third quarters at 32-14 and 31-15 respectively, this placing their lead beyond reach for the Nyanza girls. However, complacency on the part of Tigoi saw Ogande return strongly to settle for the last quarter 18-14.

Though Ogande appeared overwhelmed by their opponents, they were evidently satisfied with their progress for far, this being their first year at national level.

Tigoi's Nancy Atieno and Lucy Akinyi were the highest scorers in the match with 36 and 35 points respectively while Sanda Adhiambo and Bephine Nyairo top scored for the losers with 36 and 6. Shimba Hills, who won the title for the first time in 2009 before giving it away to Tigoi will be seeking to reclaim the title when they clash in the finals today.

Shimba lost the first quarter 6-9 to Laiser before recovering to win the second 21-5. They lost the third quarter 9-13 and won the final quarter at 17-9. Lydia Imbali and Michelle Adhiambo scored 15 and 13 points respectively for the winners while Everlyne Aketch netted two three pointer.
Courtesy of: Nairobi Star

Mixed Fortunes And Surprises Mark National Games At Kakamega - by Eurobasket News
Kenya National Secondary Schools Term One Games in Kakamega concluded over the weekend with both big and small names posting mixed fortunes.

The championships witnessed the largest ever new entrants who pulled surprises by overthrowing the well established names. Only Tigoi Girls managed to successfully defend their title after thrashing arch rivals Shimba Hills from Coast 84-40 in an action packed basketball final. First on the losing end were hosts Kakamega who surrendered the Sevens rugby crown to former champions Maseno. Pre-event favourites Kakamega fared badly but later settle for the bowl title.

However, it was a give and take situation for Maseno as they also surrendered the boys' basketball title to regional champions Laiser Hills after a 40-71 defeat.
Courtesy of Nairobi Star

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


LSBL Round 2 of Finals. TTT Riga earn second straight victory - by Eurobasket News
3-4 place
TTT Juniores - LU 65-76

LU grabbed 2-0 lead in the Bronze medals series. The game was mostly controlled by Latvijas Universitate. TTT Juniores was better in fourth quarter 16-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Swingman Ieva Krastina (176-90, agency: LBM Management) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Guard Zane Lapsina (174-83) contributed with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Latvijas Universitate's coach Rudolfs Rozitis allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Center Guna Lagzdina (182-93) replied with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds and guard Agate Geka (169-93) added 16 points in the effort for TTT Juniores.
Top scorers:
TTT Juniores: G.Lagzdina 19+11reb+3ast, A.Geka 16+1reb+1ast, I.Eida 11+1reb+2ast, L.Neimane 7+6reb+4ast, A.Priedniece 5+2reb, L.Vilde 3+2reb
LU: I.Krastina 19+8reb+5ast, Z.Lapsina 13+6reb+5ast, Z.Neilande 10+4reb, L.Pagrode 8+4reb+2ast, K.Pumpure 8+4reb, A.Vorma 8+5reb
gschID: 127389


FINAL
RTU-Merks - TTT Riga 53-94

TTT RIga are step away from the title after they stormed past RTU-Merks in the title series. The game without a history. TTT Riga led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to RTU-Merks' 28 and made 27-of-31 free shots (87.1 percent) during the game, while RTU-Merks only scored seven points from the stripe. They outrebounded RTU-Merks 54-29 including a 23-10 advantage in offensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was forward Karline Nimane (188-90) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points and 14 rebounds. International forward Dita Krumberga (183-84, college: Mt.St.Marys) chipped in 22 points and 9 rebounds (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!). Power forward Ieva Vitola (187-85) produced 10 points and center Daina Lazdeniece (187-89) added 10 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts.
Top scorers:
RTU-Merks: I.Vitola 10+4reb+3ast, D.Lazdeniece 10+5reb+2ast, K.Cirsa 10+5reb, I.Malkevica 9+1reb+2ast, S.Langenfelde 6+4reb+1ast, I.Korfa 6+1reb
TTT Riga: K.Nimane 23+14reb+2ast, D.Krumberga 22+9reb+1ast, Z.Jakobsone 18+3reb+2ast, A.Eibele 8+4reb+2ast, I.Veinberga 6+9reb+4ast, S.Dukate 5+1reb
gschID: 127105




Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 21.2
 1. Krastina, LU21.2 
 2. Lisnere, Cesis20.8 
 3. Krumberga, TTT R.20.4 
 4. Jakobsone, TTT Riga16.1 
 5. Egle, Daugavpils16.1 
 6. Teilane, RTU-Merks15.4 
 7. Surkusa, TTT J.15.3 
 8. Butler, TTT Riga14.5 
 9. Nimane, TTT Riga14.3 
 10. Eibele, TTT Riga14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Liga SURKUSA
  TTT Riga
  (192-C-91)
  Avg: 12
 1. Surkusa, TTT J.12.0 
 2. Teilane, RTU-Merks11.3 
 3. Lisnere, Cesis11.1 
 4. Lagzdina, TTT J.10.9 
 5. Butler, TTT Riga9.5 
 6. Geistarde-Z., Cesis9.2 
 7. Nimane, TTT Riga8.7 
 8. Pavlovska, RTU-M.8.5 
 9. Zdanovska, Liepajas8.5 
 10. Veidere, TTT K.8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Anda EIBELE
  TTT Riga
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Eibele, TTT Riga6.2 
 2. Jevsejeva, Dauga.4.4 
 3. Krastina, LU4.0 
 4. Karklina, TTT Riga3.8 
 5. Neimane, TTT J.3.1 
 6. Butler, TTT Riga3.0 
 7. Kazakevica, Dauga.2.7 
 8. Krumberga, TTT R.2.6 
 9. Pavlovska, TTT Riga2.6 
 10. Sarja, TTT Juniores2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Ieva KRASTINA
  LU
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Krastina, LU4.2 
 2. Karklina, TTT Riga3.4 
 3. Butler, TTT Riga2.9 
 4. Krumberga, TTT R.2.8 
 5. Eibele, TTT Riga2.7 
 6. Kazakevica, Dauga.2.4 
 7. Bridina, TTT K.2.4 
 8. Nimane, TTT Riga2.3 
 9. Zeltina, Cesis2.2 
 10. Pavlovska, TTT Riga2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Anita TEILANE
  Satu Mare
  (196-C-85)
  Avg: 3.4
 1. Teilane, RTU-Merks3.4 
 2. Veidere, TTT K.3.1 
 3. Surkusa, TTT J.2.2 
 4. Surkusa, TTT Riga1.4 
 5. Nimane, TTT Riga1.4 
 6. Teilane, TTT J.1.4 
 7. Egle, Daugavpils1.4 
 8. Geistarde-Z., Cesis1.3 
 9. Lisnere, Cesis1.2 
 10. Egle, Daugavpils1.1 


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


Stats Leaders - LMKL
Points Per Game
 Santa OKOCKYTE
  LKKA-Aistes
  (176-G-92)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Okockyte, LK.19.1 
 2. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.16.9 
 3. Kinkeviciene, Laisve16.9 
 4. Milieskiene, Lemmin.14.8 
 5. Bimbaite, VICI K.14.4 
 6. Briedyte, Utena14.3 
 7. Solopova, VICI K.13.9 
 8. Aglinskaite, MRU13.8 
 9. Aglinskaite, Laisve13.7 
 10. Budryte, Laisve12.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Sandra BALIUTAVICIUTE
  Laisve
  (182-F-81)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.10.9 
 2. Palaimaite, Utena9.7 
 3. Grigalauskyt., Lemmin.9.2 
 4. Aleksaite, MRU8.8 
 5. Balciunaite, LKKA-.8.7 
 6. Galdikaite, MRU8.6 
 7. Taraseviciut., Laisve8.2 
 8. Budryte, Laisve8.2 
 9. Margeviciute, Lemmin.7.2 
 10. Kirstukaite, Utena7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Milda SAULIUTE
  VICI Kaunas
  (175-G-81)
  Avg: 5.5
 1. Sauliute, VICI K.5.5 
 2. Kinkeviciene, Laisve5.5 
 3. Zygelyte, Lemminka.4.4 
 4. Bimbaite, VICI K.3.9 
 5. Daujadiene, Utena3.9 
 6. Pilypaitis, VICI K.3.6 
 7. Solopova, VICI K.3.5 
 8. Okockyte, LK.3.5 
 9. Valentiene, VICI K.3.1 
 10. Ziegyte, Utena2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Kornelija BALCIUNAITE
  LKKA-Aistes
  (176-F-81)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Balciunaite, LKKA-.3.3 
 2. Kinkeviciene, Laisve3.3 
 3. Bimbaite, VICI K.3.0 
 4. Solopova, VICI K.2.7 
 5. Milieskiene, Lemmin.2.6 
 6. Sauliute, VICI K.2.4 
 7. Briedyte, Ruta S.2.3 
 8. Daujadiene, Utena2.2 
 9. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.2.1 
 10. Pilypaitis, VICI K.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Kristina ALMINAITE
  VICI Kaunas
  (204-C-90)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Alminaite, VICI K.1.7 
 2. Paugaite, VICI K.1.3 
 3. Aleksaite, MRU1.3 
 4. Palaimaite, Utena1.3 
 5. Juceviciute, Utena1.2 
 6. Kirstukaite, Utena1.2 
 7. Margeviciute, Lemmin.1.0 
 8. Budryte, Laisve0.9 
 9. Baliutaviciu., Ruta S.0.8 
 10. Kvederaviciu., Laisve0.8 


*****************************************************
  POLAND - Women  


Eurobasket.com All-Polish PLKK Awards 2010-11 - by Greg
All-Polish PLKK 1st Team 2010-2011
#s#
Ewelina Kobryn
Kobryn
Erin Phillips
Phillips
Naketia Swanier
Swanier
Monica Wright
Wright
Amisha Carter
Carter
#e#5

Player of the Year: Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) of Wisla Can-Pak
Guard of the Year: Erin Phillips (173-G-85) of Wisla Can-Pak
Forward of the Year: Monica Wright (180-F-88) of Lotos Gdynia
Center of the Year: Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) of Wisla Can-Pak
Bosman Player of the Year: Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83) of Wisla Can-Pak
Import Player of the Year: Erin Phillips (173-G-85) of Wisla Can-Pak
Domestic Player of the Year: Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) of Wisla Can-Pak
Defensive Player of the Year: Erin Phillips (173-G-85) of Wisla Can-Pak
Coach of the Year: Krzysztof Koziorowicz of CCC Polkowice

1st Team
G: Erin Phillips (173-85) of Wisla Can-Pak
G: Naketia Swanier (170-86) of Lotos Gdynia
F: Monica Wright (180-88) of Lotos Gdynia
F/C: Amisha Carter (188-82) of CCC Polkowice
C: Ewelina Kobryn (193-82) of Wisla Can-Pak

2nd Team
G: Adrianne Ross (173-84) of Lider Pruszkow
G: Elina Babkina (172-89) of Lotos Gdynia
F: Milka Bjelica (193-81) of Lotos Gdynia
F: Agnieszka Szott (184-82) of Artego
C: Yelena Leuchanka (196-83) of Wisla Can-Pak

Honorable Mention
Laurie Koehn (173-G-82) of Utex Row
Sharnee Zoll (170-G-86) of CCC Polkowice
Rebecca Harris (176-G-86) of Utex Row
Monika Krawiec (172-G-84) of Energa Torun
Joy Cheek (185-F-88) of Super-Pol
Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82) of Wisla Can-Pak
Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87) of Gorzow
Bernice Mosby (186-F-84) of Lider Pruszkow
Lori Crisman (186-C/F-82) of Artego
Leona Jankowska (190-C-77) of LKS Siemens
Ugochukwu Oha (193-C-82) of LKS Siemens
Brittany Denson (191-C-87) of Lider Pruszkow
Magdalena Leciejewska (191-C-86) of Wisla Can-Pak

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Monika Krawiec (172-84) of Energa Torun
F: Katarzyna Kenig (185-79) of Widzew
F: Agnieszka Szott (184-82) of Artego
F: Daria Mieloszynska (188-83) of Lotos Gdynia
C: Ewelina Kobryn (193-82) of Wisla Can-Pak

All-Imports Team
G: Erin Phillips (173-85) of Wisla Can-Pak
G: Naketia Swanier (170-86) of Lotos Gdynia
F: Monica Wright (180-88) of Lotos Gdynia
F/C: Amisha Carter (188-82) of CCC Polkowice
C: Ugochukwu Oha (193-82) of LKS Siemens

All-Bosmans Team
G: Elina Babkina (172-89) of Lotos Gdynia
G: Chioma Nnamaka (183-85) of Gorzow
G/F: Johannah Leedham (180-87) of Gorzow
F: Milka Bjelica (193-81) of Lotos Gdynia
C: Yelena Leuchanka (196-83) of Wisla Can-Pak



*****************************************************
  SERBIA - Women  


Ivana Matovic wins Turkish league title with Fenerbahce - by Eurobasket News
Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) had a great season in Turkey. The Serbian center and her team Fenerbahce managed to win the title with almost perfect 3-1 against Galatasaray in the Finals. It is seventh straight title for the club and first for Matovic, who joined them last summer. Matovic averaged 13.5 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists for 29 Turkish league games this season. In the fourth game of the Finals series Matovic shined with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists.

Game 4: Fenerbahce - Galatasaray 91-86 (3-1)
Fenerbahce made 28-of-33 free shots (84.8 percent) during the game. 27 personal fouls committed by Galatasaray helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Angel McCoughtry fired 34 points and 4 assists for the winners. Serbian center Ivana Matovic chipped in 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Fenerbahce players scored in double figures. American guard Seimone Augustus produced 31 points and 5 rebounds and her fellow American import center Sylvia Fowles added 13 points and 12 rebounds respectively for lost side.
Fenerbahce entered to Playoffs as No.2 with 20-2 record. They eliminated Samsun with 3-0 in the Quarterfinals and later swept Botas in the Semis with the same record.

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


Stats Leaders - LFB
Points Per Game
 Eshaya Marie MURPHY
  Mariana
  (180-G/F-85)
  Avg: 25.5
 1. Murphy, Mariana25.5 
 2. Brunson, Ros C.16.1 
 3. Valdemoro, Rivas E.15.9 
 4. Ferrari, Mariana15.5 
 5. Bonner, Rivas E.15.3 
 6. Traore, Olesa15.3 
 7. Sliskovic, Real C.15.0 
 8. Chones, Navarra15.0 
 9. Douglas, Ros C.14.0 
 10. Traore, Cadi la Seu14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gisela VEGA
  Girona
  (188-C-82)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Vega, Girona9.6 
 2. Brunson, Ros C.8.6 
 3. Lyttle, Perfumer.8.5 
 4. Paris, Rivas Ecopolis8.5 
 5. Vega, Mariana8.2 
 6. Sliskovic, Real C.8.2 
 7. DeSouza, Perfumer.8.2 
 8. Murphy, Mariana7.8 
 9. Ress, Gran Canaria7.7 
 10. Staknevicien., Real C.7.3 
Assists Per Game
 Paola FERRARI
  Mariana
  (178-G/F-85)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Ferrari, Mariana4.2 
 2. Morales, Ibiza3.7 
 3. Infantes, Olesa3.6 
 4. Ocete, Mariana3.6 
 5. Sanchez, Gran C.3.2 
 6. Lacy, Hondar.-Irun3.1 
 7. Thorburn, Ibiza3.1 
 8. Ouvina, Mann Filter3.0 
 9. Jordana, Real C.2.9 
 10. Palau, Ros Casares2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Eshaya Marie MURPHY
  Mariana
  (180-G/F-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Murphy, Mariana2.5 
 2. Lacy, Hondar.-Irun2.1 
 3. Lyttle, Perfumer.2.0 
 4. Thorburn, Ibiza1.9 
 5. Morales, Ibiza1.8 
 6. Bermejo, Rivas E.1.8 
 7. Sanchez, Gran C.1.7 
 8. Ouvina, Mann Filter1.7 
 9. Sousa, Extrugasa1.6 
 10. Zlatanova, Mann F.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Olga PODKOVALNIKOVA
  Olesa
  (195-C-84)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Podkovalniko., Olesa1.3 
 2. Henry, Mann Filter1.3 
 3. Denti, Olesa1.0 
 4. DeSouza, Perfumer.1.0 
 5. Kerr, Olesa0.9 
 6. Lacy, Hondar.-Irun0.8 
 7. Brunson, Ros C.0.8 
 8. Bavendam, Hondar.-.0.7 
 9. Borges dos R., Gir.0.6 
 10. Pirsic, Ibiza0.6 


*****************************************************
  UKRAINE - Women  


Tim-Scuf improved to 6-0 record on top - by Eurobasket News
Tim-Scuf improved to 6-0 record on top adding another victory to their record. In the latest game the league-leaders overcame Donbas 85:35. The team from Kiev opened the game with 23-9 and added 21-10 in the second quarter. The last frame was the nightmare for the hosts that scored only 2 points in 10 minutes. Tim-Scuf easily won the period and the game itself. Yevgeniya Sharovka (175-G-88) led 5 other players in double figures with 15 points. Irina Rastorgueva (180-C-76) ended up with 13 points in the losing effort.
Dynamo meanwhile is on the second place with 5-1 record. In the latest game Dynamo rolled over Luganski Lastivki 91:56. The guests started with 26-11 and then won the second frame 22-12. Moreover the second half also belonged to the team from the capital. Dynamo produced 17-11 and 26-22 in the third and the last stanzas respectively. Shantel Ragin (178-G-87) stepped up with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Nataliya Zotko (176-G-92) and Viktoriya Skubiy (185-F-92) added 15 apiece while Lyubarska posted 13. Lybov Yakunina (186-F-86) responded with 19 points in the losing effort.

Shantel Ragin averages high 19.0 ppg for her new team - by Eurobasket News
Shantel Ragin (178-G-87) averages high 19.0 ppg for her new team as the American Player joined Dynamo in April. She also has 10.0 rebounds per game and 2.8 assists.
In 2004-2005 she started for Florida International (NCAA) and in 21 games averaged 5.3ppg, 2.4rpg, FGP: 69.9%, FT: 40.9%. In 2006-2007 moved to Clayton St. (NCAA2) and after 35 games had 12.2ppg, PBC Reb 1- (8.8rpg), 2.6bpg, PBC Assist 4- (4.2apg), FGP: 76.2%, FT: 57.9%. In 2007-2008 for Clayton St. (NCAA2, starting five) she became the third top-scorer PBC Score 3- (15.2ppg), 7.7rpg, PBC Assist 2 (5.6apg), FGP: 78.9%, FT: 65.5%. The season 2009 and 2010 Shantel Ragin appeared for Atlanta Dream (WNBA): only pre-season. The season 2010-2011 started for East Point Lady Jaguar (WBCBL, starting five) and after 18 games averaged 20.1ppg, 5.6rpg, 5.0apg, FGP: 51.2%.
Her Dynamo meanwhile is on the second place with 5-1 record. In the latest game Dynamo rolled over Luganski Lastivki 91:56. The guests started with 26-11 and then won the second frame 22-12. Moreover the second half also belonged to the team from the capital. Dynamo produced 17-11 and 26-22 in the third and the last stanzas respectively. Shantel Ragin stepped up with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Zotko and Skubiy added 15 apiece while Lyubarska posted 13. Yakunina responded with 19 points in the losing effort.



*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Interview with Cheryl Reeve, from Minnesota Lynx - by Luis Filipe Cristovao
Minnesota Lynx Head Coach Cheryl Reeve spoke to Solobasket about their #1 pick in the WNBA Draft, their expectations for the new season and how she sees women basketball.
Here are her answers.

-After three years choosing the 2nd, 3rd and 4th player in the draft, how does it feel to choose the number one?
It's such an exciting time for our franchise to be choosing No. 1 in a year when the consensus #1 pick is one of the most decorated women's college basketball players ever.

-Do you believe Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89) can be an impact player in WNBA this season?
There is no doubt in my mind that Maya will be an impact player in every season she plays in the WNBA, including her rookie season.

-When did you have to make the decision to choose her?
We knew since the we won the draft lottery held in November that the Lynx would be adding Maya Moore.

-As for Amber Harris (6'5''-F-88), did you have her mind already? Was it a tough decision to pick her?
Amber Harris is a player that we coveted in the 2010 draft before she reached the decision to return to Xavier for her fifth season of eligibility. When Amber was not available in the 2010 draft, we made the decision to trade the #3 pick to Connecticut for their 2011 1st round pick. When Amber Harris was available at the #4 pick in this draft, we were elated.

-What are the main goals of Minnesota Lynx this season?
The goal for the Lynx is to be the best in the West and compete for the WNBA Championship

-Getting ready for training camp, do you feel positive about reaching these goals?
Having a full training camp as a result of the later start to our season and with the depth and talent we have at every position I feel very good about our ability to reach our goal.

-This year, because of Eurobasket, we will have less European players in the league. Do you think we will see changes in the quality of the game?
While we will miss the European players participating in the WNBA, I don't believe the quality of the WNBA game will suffer.

- What do you think of having your athletes playing all year, in both the European and the WNBA season?
I believe the WNBA players enjoy both experiences of playing in the WNBA and in Europe. However, the toll it takes on the bodies of these athletes is a concern for coaches in both leagues.

-Last year, you had Nuria Martinez (5'9''-PG-84) on your roster. Are you following any other Spanish player who might be able to join the Lynx in the future?
We really enjoyed having Nuria in Minneapolis last summer as she was fun to coach and a good teammate. The Lynx also had Anna Montanana (6'1''-F-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: George Washington) on the roster in 2009. We will certainly continue to follow women's basketball in Spain to identify future prospects for the WNBA.




Source: http://www.solobasket.com/contenidos/wnba/ojos/puestos/liga/femenina/entrevista/exclusiva/cheryl/reeve/entrenadora/minnesota/lynx/c-26708.html









Connecticut Sun signs Stefanie Murphy to training camp contract - by Eurobasket News
The Connecticut Sun announced in a press release that it has signed Boston College forward Stefanie Murphy (6'4''-F) to a training camp contract.

A native of Londonderry, N.H., the 6-foot-4 Murphy is the second all-time leading rebounder in program history, finishing with 937 boards. She ranks fourth all-time with 1,722 points. Murphy was the second-leading scorer and rebounder for the Eagles this past season, averaging 15.3 points and 7.9 boards per game.

Murphy had 12 double-doubles as a senior, 26 for her career, and she finished with 87 career double-figure scoring games. A team captain, Murphy was an All-ACC third team selection as a senior, adding to a collection of conference awards that also includes being named ACC Rookie of the Year following her freshman season.

The Connecticut Sun will open its ninth season at Mohegan Sun Arena on Saturday, June 4, hosting the Washington Mystics at 7 p.m.

Sun season tickets, mini plans and groups for the 2011 season are currently on sale . For more, click here to visit the Sun's website.

Courtesy of http://montville-ct.patch.com

Latest transactions - by Eurobasket News
Latest transactions of the WNBA teams:

April 18: The Phoenix Mercury added Brittany Spears (6'1''-F-88) to the team's roster
April 18: The Seattle Storm added Breanna Salley (5'11''-F) and Courtney Ward (5'7''-G-89) to the team's roster
April 18: The New York Liberty added Ewelina Kobryn (6'4''-C-82) to the team's roster
April 18: The Connecticut Sun added Stefanie Murphy (6'4''-F) to the team's roster

April 15: The Minnesota Lynx signed Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89) and Angel Robinson (5'8''-G-89)
April 15: The Phoenix Mercury waived Amanda Thompson (6'0''-F-87, college: Oklahoma)