Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/30/2011

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Men News

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ASEAN LEAGUE

Malaysia Are you ready for Morrison ??? - by Sheryl Reyes
Marcus Morrison (198-G/F-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) of Satria Muda Britama signed a month contract with the KL Dragons for the FIBA Champions Cup he is expected to bring electrifying style of play. He is known to be a beast and a scoring machine when he played in the ABL season 2 as a matter of fact he was top leading scorer. It will be very interesting seeing this young talented athlete help the malaysian locals that he once competed with. The tournament will be held in Pasig, Philippines from May 28 to June 5, 2011.^[1] The event is co-organized by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and FIBA Asia.

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AUSTRALIA

Kirk Penney all set for shootout on the Shore - by Eurobasket News
He was never going to miss this one. Not Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin). Not after his sub-par game two. Not with all that's at stake tonight at the North Shore Events Centre.

So, sore back or not and he says he's fine, after Wednesday's spasm-induced scare Penney will line up with his New Zealand Breakers team-mates tonight for the deciding game three of the Australian NBL grand final series against the Cairns Taipans.

It's a match Penney was probably going to play even if they had to push him out in a wheelchair. For the record they won't have to, with his back responding well to treatment.

He's played in some big games in his time a college final four in the US, a world championship semifinal in Indianapolis and in the Euroleague finals but there is something special about this contest which has captured the imagination of the Kiwi sporting public.

There were half-a-million hits on the agency's website in a few hours when tickets went on sale, sending it crashing and leaving thousands of bandwagon-jumping hoops fans disappointed.

This is the sporting story of the week as the Breakers chase a slice of history, not only by claiming their maiden ANBL championship but by becoming the first Kiwi team to crack a major Australian league. Between basketball, rugby league and football there have been 34 seasons of ignominy, ineptitude and the odd near miss. It would be a significant achievement, to say the least.

So much, you have to think, is going to hinge on Penney, who will go head-to-head with the Taipans' Ron Dorsey in a battle of the long-range gunners that could prove decisive.

In game one Penney delivered and the Breakers eased to an 85-67 victory. The classy swingman went nine-of-17 from the field, four-of-eight from deep and finished with a game-high 25 points. For the record, Dorsey was a non-factor with 12 points on three-of-nine shooting.

But in Cairns last Sunday the tables were turned. It was Penney who struggled to make an imprint going four-of-12 for a dozen quiet points and Detroit native Dorsey who slotted six trifectas amid a game-high 22 points in the series-levelling double-overtime 85-81 victory.

In Cairns, the Snakes switched out on Penney and flustered him into four turnovers and those eight misses. Not coincidentally the Breakers struggled offensively, even though they very nearly sneaked a famous victory in that first overtime.

But it was then that Dorsey showed just how lethal he can be with a sliver of daylight. The Breakers led by four inside 11 seconds. But Dorsey made a deep three and then with time up connected on a scrambling heave from the car park that sent it into a second extra period.

Penney deflects talk of a duel between the gunners and says his mindset isn't about making any statements tonight. But here's a fact: in the eight Breakers defeats this season Penney has been kept to nearly six points under his average.

In other words, when Penney struggles, so too does his team. No pressure, then.

'I just want to win this thing,' he says, soon after declaring himself fit. 'If they switch defenders it means our four-men are going to be naked under the rim and we should get open looks. It's just responding to how they're playing. However we get it done, whoever steps up, whatever the case may be, we just want to win this game.'

Let's cast our mind back to the semifinal series. In game one Penney is held to just 14 points and the Cats wipe the floor with the Breakers. Next game out in Perth, the Tall Blacks star erupts for 38 in a brilliant victory. It's response time again.

'We have to go out and play with that unbelievable urgency and mental awareness and just play so hard,' adds Penney. 'In Cairns we let ourselves down and were very disappointed how we played. Now it's our chance to respond and win this thing the way we're capable of.'

Penney says the Breakers have to be 'conscious' of Dorsey, but not captivated by him. 'We know what he's capable of doing now and the shots he's capable of making.'

Dorsey, for his part, anticipates a Penney rejoinder tonight.

'It's a big one,' said the athletic small forward. 'Game one he had a big game and game two we focused down on him a bit more. But he's going to come back at us in game three and we've got to focus on him again.'

If the Breakers find their fluency they should reward the sellout crowd with a night to remember. It's hard to believe Penney and Gary Wilkinson can be contained two games in a row.

Kevin Braswell and Tom Abercrombie made their shots in Cairns, and may need to again if the Taipans key in on the Breakers' key threats so heavily again.

'If we play how we're capable of we should win the championship,' says Penney without a hint of hubris. 'That's got to be our mindset. We believe in ourselves, and it's time to do it.'

PENNEY Vs DORSEY

Season averages: Penney: 20.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists.
Dorsey: 13.4pts, 4.8 reb, 1.2 assists

Penney's strengths: Comes off screens well and has a quick and deadly release Strong enough to take it to the hoop if he finds the seam Knows where to find his shots and how to lose defenders

Penney's weaknesses: Doesn't have the safest handles off dribble Needs to make quicker decisions on switches Can be turnover-prone under pressure

Dorsey's strengths: Elevation means he can get shots off over defenders Is quick for his size and has huge range Doesn't fear the big shots

Dorsey's weaknesses: Goes missing in games Can be shut down by physical defence Shot selection questionable under pressure

Courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz

Breakers claim NBL title - by Eurobasket News
The path hasn't been without its potholes, but the New Zealand Breakers achieved New Zealand sporting history with a 71-53 win over Cairns Taipans in the third and deciding game of the iiNet NBL Championship at North Shore Events Centre on Friday.

Top of the table during much of the league's regular season, the Breakers had to come back from the brink of defeat against the Perth Wildcats in the semi-finals and had the title almost snatched from their grasp in Game Two of the final series in Cairns over Easter.

But they made no mistake in the decider back on their home floor, becoming the first team from across the Tasman to capture an Australian national league title in any sport.

In another tough, grinding encounter, New Zealand never trailed, grabbing an early double-digit lead and finally taking full control with a 16-4 run in the third quarter. Consecutive three-pointers from CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) midway through the fourth period finally sealed the title.

Bruton led his team's scoring with 14 points, while naturalized American Dusty Rychart (201-F-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Minnesota) matched that contribution for Cairns.

New Zealand Breakers 71 (CJ Bruton 14, Gary Wilkinson (206-F-82, college: Utah St.) 13, Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) 11)
Cairns Taipans 53 (Dusty Rychart 14)

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

Meteors tip off QBL campaign - by Eurobasket News
Grant Kruger (200-F-71) is a little bit like Oliver Twist.

But instead of wanting some more, Kruger wants only one more.

One more win than the Mackay Meteors achieved last year.

Last years beaten Queensland Basketball League grand finalists launched their 2011 season last night and Kruger spoke highly of his teams chances to clinch a premiership.

I only want one more win this season the grand final, he said.

It is a big ask but I honestly believe we have the team to do it.

I think we have recruited well in the off-season.

We have re-signed key players from last season and while it is very unfortunate we were not able to bring back Todd Blanchfield we have been able to recruit some very exciting and talented new players to replace him.

Michael Kingma (209-C-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy) is one of the best big men around and in Deba George we have one of the most exciting players I have ever seen.

Kruger said the Meteors 2011 assault on the QBL title will be built on the foundation of teamwork.

On the court I want us to be working as a team.

If we can do that we will be a success, he said.

I built my 14-year NBL career on working for the team and if this side can replicate that we will go a long way.
Courtesy of: www.sportingpulse.com

Big V: Round 6 Preview - by Eurobasket News
Eltham vs. Waverley Sun 1/5 1.00pm @ Eltham High School
Heres the one weve ALL been waiting for - arguably the preview of 2K11s Grand Final series, and theres plenty to talk about. The Wildcats have hired a big screen to watch the NBL GF series coz they know that Big Vs first on-court look at one Daniel Dillon will come on this very day. And were all waiting to see a fully charged Eltham do what everyone predicted them to do, and thats dominate this years State Championship. Sure, theyve got ALL of their names in now, but Waverley have looked rock solid to date and know each others games intimately. They like to go in as under-dog, but thats hardly a title they can claim as they plan to claim another title.

Sherbrooke vs. Melbourne Sat 30/4 8.00pm @ Monbulk Secondary College
The Suns would be hoping to christen their newly opened venue with a win here, and on paper, with both sitting on 3 & 3 youd tip this as even money. With the Easter break coming as perfect timing to rest battle weary bodies post NBL season, the Tigers should have too much fire power for Sherbrooke, new venue or not. And how will the Suns fare without the added advantage a suspect roof, change rooms colder than the arctic & a drive into the middle of the Great Dividing Range have previously afforded them?

Bulleen vs. Waverley Sat 30/4 8.00pm @ Veneto Club
We love you Arnie, and love what your boys have brought to the table, but the bubble has burst and the struggle now begins. Theres a 1% chance that Dillon will suit up tonight although theres so many other offensive threats to Waverleys arsenal to be contained, meaning the Boomers will begin their long slide back down the SCM ladder.

Ringwood vs. Hume City Sat 30/4 8.15pm @ Maroondah Indoor Sports Centre
Both of these teams have been thrust under the microscope in recent weeks and arguably, have both responded to the scrutiny. Sharing 2 & 4 records, about the only thing separating the two is Hume Citys 2 game winning streak, against Ringwoods -1 at the hands of loaded up Eltham last round. The Hawks seem to be in favour of alternating their fortunes and with their last 5 as LWLWL, Harrington would be hoping to add another W to complete the pattern.

Diamond Valley vs. Bulleen Sun 1/5 3.00pm @ Diamond Valley Sports & Fitness
Depleted by injury but not in spirit, DV are staring down the barrel of a long, tough season. Theyve got nothing to lose here tonight and all pressure sits firmly on Bulleens shoulders who are coming off a tough encounter with Waverley just a few hours earlier. This will help to even up what appears a one-sided match up, and the thriving home town support has to be worth at least a few extra points, doesnt it?
Courtesy of: bigv.com.au

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Gary ERVIN
  Hawks
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 20.1

1. Ervin, Hawks	20.1
2. Penney, Breakers	20.0
3. Redhage, Wildcats	18.0
4. Khazzouh, Sydney	17.4
5. Williams, Tigers	17.3
6. Clark, Blaze	17.1
7. Worthington, Blaze	16.8
8. Wilkinson, Breakers	15.8
9. Ballinger, 36ers	15.3
10. Harvey, Blaze	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Khazzouh, Sydney	10.0
2. Davidson, Hawks	8.0
3. Vukona, Breakers	7.6
4. Nevill, Tigers	7.4
5. Worthington, Blaze	7.0
6. Holmes, 36ers	6.8
7. Clark, Blaze	6.8
8. Schenscher, Croco.	6.8
9. Williams, Tigers	6.8
10. Brown, Wildcats	6.7

Assists Per Game

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

1. Williams, Tigers	6.1
2. Gibson, Blaze	5.5
3. Ervin, Hawks	4.5
4. Shannon, 36ers	4.4
5. Braswell, Breakers	4.2
6. Saville, Hawks	4.1
7. Carter, 36ers	4.0
8. Ubaka, Taipans	3.9
9. Blalock, Crocodiles	3.5
10. Martin, Wildcats	3.2

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

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

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. Bendigo B.		5-0
2. Knox R.		5-0
3. Brisbane S.		2-2
4. Dandenong		1-2
5. Ballarat M.		1-3
6. Canberra G.		1-4
7. Kilsyth C.		1-4
SEABL-South
1. NW Tasmania		3-1
2. Sandringham S.		3-1
3. Hobart C.		3-2
4. Geelong S.		2-2
5. Nunawading S.		2-2
6. Mt Gambier		2-4
7. Frankston B.		1-2
8. Albury W.B.		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

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AUSTRIA

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.4

1. Stazic, BC Vienna	26.4
2. Kennedy, Worth.	19.4
3. Brokenboroug., Wel.	19.4
4. Vay, Arkadia	19.3
5. Houston, Arkadia	18.6
6. Mayes, Gmunden	17.5
7. Heard, Gussing	17.0
8. Shavies, Furstenf.	16.8
9. Nagler, Klostern.	16.3
10. Shawn, Oberwart	15.8

Rebounds Per Game

Marcus HEARD
  Gussing
  (201-F-84)
  Avg: 9.2

1. Heard, Gussing	9.2
2. Johnson, Oberwart	8.5
3. Graham, UBSC G.	7.9
4. Stazic, BC Vienna	7.9
5. Trepalovac, BC Vi.	7.8
6. Djuric, Gussing	7.5
7. Vay, Arkadia	7.5
8. Volcic, Oberwart	7.2
9. Oppland, Gmunden	7.1
10. Stegnjaic, UBSC G.	6.9

Assists Per Game

Markus CARR
  BC Vienna
  (185-G-79)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Carr, BC Vienna	7.3
2. Shavies, Furstenf.	7.2
3. Holcomb-Faye, Wels	6.6
4. Danek, Arkadia	6.4
5. Schreiner, St.Po.	5.4
6. Stazic, BC Vienna	4.4
7. Miletic, UBSC G.	4.4
8. Parker, Oberwart	4.4
9. Stazic, Furstenfeld	4.2
10. Boylan, Gmunden	4.2

Steals Per Game

Thomas SCHREINER
  St.Po.
  (195-G-87)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Schreiner, St.Po.	2.4
2. Shavies, Furstenf.	2.3
3. Boylan, Gmunden	2.2
4. Ray, Furstenfeld	2.1
5. Jandl, St.Polten	2.0
6. Parker, Oberwart	1.9
7. Vay, Arkadia	1.7
8. Stazic, BC Vienna	1.7
9. Matthews, Fursten.	1.6
10. Bachlechner, Wort.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Louis GRAHAM
  UBSC G.
  (205-F/C-84)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Graham, UBSC G.	1.6
2. Hicks, Furstenfeld	1.5
3. Hampton, Furstenf.	1.3
4. Pekovic, BC Vienna	1.2
5. Slack, Gmunden	1.1
6. Miljkovic, BC Vi.	0.8
7. Vay, Arkadia	0.8
8. Sally, Oberwart	0.8
9. Heard, Gussing	0.7
10. N''Diaye, BC.	0.7

A Bundesliga Semifinals: Furstenfeld and Arkadia take Game Two - by Eurobasket News
Furstenfeld Panthers and Arkadia did a great job in Game Two of the A Bundesliga Semifinals. The Panthers cruised past Gmunden on the road 63-75, while Arkadia handed 77-80 home loss to Oberwart. Both series are tied at 1-1 now (best-of-five). Third games are scheduled for Sunday teams will meet again on May 5.

Gmunden - Furstenfeld 63-75 (1-1)
The game was mostly controlled by Furstenfeld Panthers. Gmunden Swans managed to win third quarter 15-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Gmunden Swans 33-20 including a 22-9 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American forward Charles Gosa (202-77, college: N.Mexico St.) who scored 14 points and 8 rebounds. The other American import guard Anthony Shavies (191-83, college: Missouri St., agency: Court Side) chipped in 10 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals. Five Furstenfeld Panthers players scored in double figures. The former international guard Deteri Mayes (189-74, college: Murray St., agency: Court Side) produced 16 points and American forward Dan Oppland (203-84, college: Valparaiso, agency: SportsTalent) added 9 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Gmunden Swans' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Gmunden: D.Mayes 16+3reb+1ast, F.Schoeninger 14+3reb, M.Mullary 9+5reb, D.Oppland 9+9reb+1ast, T.Stelzer 5, I.Boylan 4+6ast
Furstenfeld: C.Gosa 14+8reb+2ast, S.Ray 14+5reb+2ast, S.Stazic 13+6reb+1ast, R.Hicks 11+4reb+1ast, A.Shavies 10+5reb+7ast, D.Alexander 8+1reb

Oberwart - Arkadia 77-80 (1-1)
The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Arkadia Lions dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Oberwart Gunners' 34. American swingman Kevin Houston (194-76, college: St.Bonaventure, agency: Interperformances) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. Argentinian-Italian forward Fabricio Vay (206-86, agency: Interperformances) contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American forward Joe Dean Shawn (199-87, college: Nevada) replied with 11 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Tyrone Sally (201-82, college: W.Virginia, agency: 540 Sports) added 10 points in the effort for Oberwart Gunners. Five Arkadia Lions and four Oberwart Gunners players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Oberwart: D.Gonzalvez 17, K.Parker 14+1ast, J.Dean Shawn 11+5reb+2ast, T.Sally 10+4reb+3ast, B.Volcic 9+3reb+3ast, H.Ochsenhofer 7+3reb+2ast
Arkadia: K.Houston 17+10reb+2ast, P.Skurdauskas 16+5reb, F.Vay 15+6reb+3ast, B.Danek 11+5reb+8ast, D.Drenovac 10+3reb+1ast, M.Bralovic 9+2reb

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BAHAMAS

Bahamas to host CBC Championships - by Kristian Santiago
The Bahamas is going to play host to the men's and women's editions of the CBC Championships this year. The tournament is scheduled to take place at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium starting July 25th and finshing off August 5th. Countries who have confirmed their interests in participating are Barbados, Guyana, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Virgin Islands, Antigua & Barbuda, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and the Turks & Caicos Islands on the men's side.

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BAHRAIN

Isa Town and Manama Get their wins - by Yousef Ahmed
ISA TOWN claimed a resounding 90-65 victory over Sitra yesterday to boost their title hopes in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League. On the concluding day of the 13th week, Isa Town overcame a shaky start to clinch a deserving win and stay in contention for a berth in the second round. Jamal Holden (206-C-80, college: UALR) guided Isa Town's comeback in last night's key clash, scoring 22 points while Hussain Al Durazi made further contributions with 13 points and other defensive rebounds. Also spearheading the victors yesterday were Hassan Ramadan, Ali Jassim, Mahmood Qaheri, Ahmed Janahi, Hassan Faraj, Nawaf Masaud and veteran Bassim Ali.

The victory, which was Isa Town's sixth in 13 games, lifted them to share fifth place with Sitra and Al Hala. All three teams have 19 points each. Sitra were relying heavily on their captain Hussain Taqi who topped score with 37 points. Taqi's younger brother Salman, along with Ahmed Marhoon, Mohammed Abdula and Hassan Nasser were the other key figures for Sitra in yesterday's game.

In another match played earlier in the day, Manama picked up an emphatic 125-58 win against Nuwaidrat. Leading Manama to victory was their American giant Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami, FL) who had an impressive triple double with 54 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. Also guiding Manama to victory were their local stars Ahmed Al Mutawa (199-F/C-81, college: Broward CC) with 11 points 9 rebounds and 3 blocks and Bader Abdulla Malabes with 23 points and 8 assists.

Manama's coach Jason Rabedeaux (agency: Edge Sports ) has tranfromed this completely new team and has made manama a Championship contender relying on a group of young players like Ahmed Najaf, Mohammed Asghar, Mohammed Habib, Mohammed Amir, Khalid Ali, Mohammed Ismail and Ahmed Ramadan. Nuwaidrat's top scorer was Hassan Yousef with 16 points. Wakie Williams (14 points) of the US, Hussain Mansoor, Jawad Abdulla and Mohammed Fadhel were the other scorers.

But yesterday's highlight was a neck-and-neck encounter between middle-of-the-table cubs Isa Town and Sitra. Sitra started the game on a high note, taking a 16-14 lead with experienced skipper Hussain Taqi scoring 12 points, all from three-pointers. Coached by Ahmed Salman, Isa Town came back roaring and took a seven-point lead of 38-31 at half-time, thanks to their rising player Jassim who inspired his side with 13 points while Holden added 10 points and made several useful rebounds. Sitra were exposed to a string of defensive and offensive fouls in the third quarter, which cost them dearly. Isa Town took advantage to stretch their lead to 56-40 with Holden, Jassim and Al Durazi firing from all over the court.There was no stopping Isa Town who extended their advantage to 17 points midway into the fourth and final quarter to secure victory.

Meanwhile, the 14th week will commence on Sunday. Al Hala hope to extend their recent winning streak when they take on Al Ittihad at 5.30pm. This will be followed by an interesting match between Isa Town and Al Ahli at 7.15pm. Two matches will be held the next day when Muharraq play Nuwaidrat while Sitra challenge Manama. All matches are scheduled to take place at the Zain Basketball Arena. Eight clubs will compete in the second-half of the league, which concludes on May 17, with the top six reaching the main round. In the main round, the teams will compete in a single round robin format and the best two will make it to the best-of-five final playoff.

Source GDN By Rami Hulayyel , Posted on Friday, April 29, 2011

Standings

Premier League Stage Two Standings

1. Muharraq		11-2
2. Al Manama		11-2
3. Al Ahli		9-4
4. Nuwaidrat		6-7
5. Issa Town		6-7
6. Al Hala		6-7
7. Sitra		6-7
8. Al Ittihad		4-9

Stage One Standings

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BELGIUM

Mallet's 29 points give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
32-year old guard Demond Mallet (185-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team TEC Spirou Charleroi and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 31.
He had the game-high 29 points adding two rebounds and two assists for Charleroi in his team's victory, helping them to beat Antwerp (#5, 15-13) 65-59. It allowed Charleroi to consolidate first place in the Belgian league. Charleroi have a solid 22-4 record. In the team's last game Mallet had a remarkable 71.4% from 2-point range and got five three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He turned to be Charleroi's top player in his first season with the team. Mc Neese State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Mallet is in league's top in points (2nd best: 16.1ppg), assists (8th best: 2.7apg) and averages solid 2.3spg,54.7% FGP and 40.6% from behind 3-point line.

Second best performed player last round was Rashaun Freeman (206-C/F-84) of VOO Verviers-Pepinster. He is American in his first season at VOO Verviers-Pepinster. In the last game Freeman recorded impressive double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds. Of course VOO Verviers-Pepinster cruised to a 82-71 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Antwerp (#5, 15-13). VOO Verviers-Pepinster's 6th position in has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 10-17 record. Freeman is a newcomer at VOO Verviers-Pepinster and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.2ppg (#7). He also registered 7.9 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Adeola Dagunduro (196-G-86) of Stella Artois Leuven Bears (#7). Dagunduro showcased his all-around game by recording 16 points, nine rebounds and six assists in the last round. He was a key player of Leuven, leading his team to a 71-48 easy win against slightly lower-ranked Liege (#8, 9-19). The chances of Leuven not to end season at such low position in , however are less than slim as they have already lost 18 games, recording just ten victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Dagunduro could try to bring Leuven's a little bit higher in the standings. Dagunduro has individually a great season in Belgium. After 27 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.2rpg (9th best) and assists with 3.7apg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Christopher Copeland (203-F-84) of Aalstar - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Matt Lojeski (198-G-85) of Oostende - 23 points and 4 rebounds
6. Graham Brown (205-C-84) of Antwerp - 9 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Roel Moors (190-G-78) of Antwerp - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Salah Mejri (214-C-86) of Antwerp - 16 points and 7 rebounds
9. Dominic Waters (185-G-86) of Verviers-Pep. - 19 points, 2 rebounds and 9 assists
10. James J.J. Miller (180-G-79) of Leuven - 17 points 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)

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BOSNIA

Standings - D2 Leagues

D2 Standings

1. Liga RS
1. Servitium		12-3
2. Sutjeska		12-3
3. Plus Gradanski		11-4
4. Radnik B.		9-6
5. Rudar		9-6
6. Bratunac		8-7
7. Glasinac		8-7
8. Wolf Security		6-9
9. Feniks		5-10
10. Derventa		4-11
11. Prijedor		4-11
12. Drina		2-13
A1 Liga - Group A
1. Triland		10-0
2. Igman		5-5
3. Play Off		5-5
4. Bosnjak		4-6
5. Bihac		3-7
6. Orlovik		3-7
A1 Liga - Group B
1. Vogosca		8-2
2. Student		7-3
3. Brcko		5-5
4. Limometal		5-5
5. Gradina		4-6
6. Trica		1-9
Liga Herceg-Bosne
1. Posusje		4-0
2. Livno		4-1
3. Siroki II		4-1
4. Busovaca		3-1
5. Lokomotiva		2-1
6. Kiseljak		2-2
7. Rama		2-3
8. Vitez		2-3
9. Grude		1-4
10. Tomislav		0-4
11. Zrinjski II		0-4

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BULGARIA

Kiril Raykov out 2-3 weeks with injury - by Eurobasket News
Chernomorets is set to lose Kiril Raykov (196-F-87) to injury for the next few weeks. According to the reports from Bulgarian media, Raykov is expected to miss 2-3 weeks due to the ankle injury. Raykov picked it up during Chernomorets match against Spartak Pleven. So far, Raykov has averaged 10.4 points and 4.3 rebounds in 11 games played for Chernomorets.
Kiril Raykov is a product of BC Balkan youth system. He made his professional debut during 2003-2004 season helping Balkan gain promotion from ProA-2 to ProA league. Following season, he averaged 2.3 points in 12 games and has once again helped Balkan gain promotion. Raykov continued to feature for Balkan on regular basis as a rotation player. During 2008-2009 season he helped Balkan reach NBL League. Last season, he played in 26 games and has averaged 1.6 points per contest. He helped Balkan reach play-off Semifinals which was the best result for Balkan. Midway through this season, he joined Chernomorets.

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CBC CHAMPIONSHIPS

CROATIA

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

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

1. Puljko, Kvarner	23.0
2. Car, Zadar	21.6
3. Zitko, Trogir	20.1
4. Bogdanovic, Cibona	18.9
5. Petkovic, Svjetlost	18.0
6. Krapic, Zabok	17.6
7. Bakovic, Darda	17.4
8. Saric, Dubrava	17.4
9. Zoric, KK.	17.0
10. Krolo, Darda	16.4

Rebounds Per Game

Dario SARIC
  Dubrava
  (205-F/C-94)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Saric, Dubrava	9.6
2. Krapic, Zabok	9.4
3. Krolo, Darda	9.0
4. Ivanov, Zadar	7.4
5. Radic, Alkar Sinj	7.3
6. Sobin, KK Split	7.3
7. Zoric, KK.	7.1
8. Brown, Zadar	6.8
9. Ridl, Darda	6.5
10. Grgurevic, KK Spl.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Milan KARAKAS
  Trogir
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 7

1. Karakas, Trogir	7.0
2. Petkovic, Svjetlost	5.1
3. Car, Zadar	4.4
4. Jugo, Kvarner 2010	4.1
5. Tomeljak, Zabok	3.9
6. Blajic, Alkar Sinj	3.8
7. Saric, Dubrava	3.5
8. Delas, Alkar Sinj	3.5
9. Renfroe, KK.	3.4
10. Simon, KK.	3.3

Steals Per Game

Alex RENFROE
  KK.
  (190-G-86)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Renfroe, KK.	2.9
2. Car, Zadar	2.7
3. Marcinkovic, Zadar	2.0
4. Saric, Dubrava	2.0
5. Karakas, Trogir	1.9
6. Anzulovic, Alkar S.	1.9
7. Brown, Zadar	1.9
8. Tomeljak, Zabok	1.8
9. Bogdanovic, Cibona	1.8
10. Petani, Borik	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Luka ZORIC
  KK.
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Zoric, KK.	1.6
2. Kraljevic, Zabok	1.4
3. Vitali, Trogir	1.2
4. Saric, Dubrava	1.0
5. Krolo, Darda	1.0
6. Vukicevic, Svjetlo.	0.9
7. Sobin, KK Split	0.9
8. Vladovic, Trogir	0.9
9. Ridl, Darda	0.8
10. Sarlija, Borik	0.8

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

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

1. Smith, BC Kolin	17.4
2. Landry, BK Prost.	15.5
3. Houska, BK Decin	15.4
4. Horak, Svitavy	14.7
5. Hatcher, BK Decin	14.4
6. Sedmak, Basketbo.	14.3
7. Kotas, USK Praha	14.0
8. Burke, NH Ostrava	14.0
9. Blazek, B&W Opava	13.8
10. Spagrud, NH Ostr.	13.8

Rebounds Per Game

Boris MENO
  Svitavy
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 11

1. Meno, Svitavy	11.0
2. Meno, Basketbo.	10.4
3. Houska, BK Decin	8.5
4. Landry, BK Prost.	8.5
5. Burke, NH Ostrava	7.9
6. Spagrud, NH Ostra.	7.8
7. Arnold, BK Pardu.	7.8
8. Frana, Plzen	7.1
9. Kramny, Svitavy	6.9
10. Gadri, BK Prostej.	6.9

Assists Per Game

Stepan VRUBL
  Plzen
  (186-G-76)
  Avg: 6

1. Vrubl, Plzen	6.0
2. Lawrence, BK Prost.	5.1
3. Jones, BC Kolin	3.8
4. Carnecky, B&W O.	3.6
5. Kotas, USK Praha	3.6
6. Hatcher, BK Decin	3.4
7. Sanders, BK Decin	3.2
8. Maio, Basketbo.	2.9
9. Channels, Novy Jic.	2.8
10. Macela, Svitavy	2.7

Steals Per Game

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

1. Kotas, USK Praha	2.0
2. Wright, BK Pardu.	1.8
3. Smith, BC Kolin	1.7
4. Hampton, BK Pardu.	1.7
5. Holloway, Basket.	1.7
6. Sirina, B&W Opava	1.7
7. Channels, Novy Jic.	1.5
8. Vrubl, Plzen	1.4
9. Gajdosik, Basket.	1.4
10. Landry, BK Prost.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Boris MENO
  Svitavy
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Meno, Svitavy	1.6
2. Miklosik, B&W O.	1.2
3. Trybanski, NH Os.	1.2
4. Hanke, USK Praha	1.1
5. Kramny, Svitavy	0.9
6. Meno, Basketbo.	0.8
7. Egwuatu, Svitavy	0.8
8. Gadri, BK Prostejov	0.8
9. Pelikan, Novy Jicin	0.8
10. Benda, CEZ Nymbu.	0.7

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D-LEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

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

1. Johnson, Bakersfi.	25.7
2. Johnson, Erie B.	22.6
3. Jeffers, Iowa E.	21.1
4. McNeal, Rio Grande	20.6
5. Sims, Maine RC	20.3
6. Alexander, Texas L.	20.2
7. Stinson, Iowa E.	20.1
8. Dentmon, Texas L.	18.7
9. Goods, Dakota W.	18.2
10. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	17.7

Rebounds Per Game

Jeff ADRIEN
  Rio Grande
  (201-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2

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

Assists Per Game

Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 9.7

1. Stinson, Iowa E.	9.7
2. Miles, Reno Bighor.	8.7
3. Daniels, Texas L.	8.5
4. Russell, Ft.Wayne.	7.9
5. Jackson, Idaho S.	7.5
6. Crittenton, Dakota	6.9
7. Jackson, Erie B.	6.6
8. Johnson, Austin T.	6.0
9. Reynolds, Spring.	5.9
10. Ahearn, Erie Bay	5.9

Steals Per Game

Zabian DOWDELL
  Tulsa 66ers
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Dowdell, Tulsa 66e.	2.5
2. Crittenton, Dakota	2.5
3. Miles, Reno Bighor.	2.5
4. Lofton, Iowa E.	2.1
5. Jackson, Idaho S.	2.1
6. Lin, Reno Bighorns	2.1
7. Lafayette, Ft.Way.	2.0
8. Greene, Utah F.	2.0
9. Kramer, Ft.Wayne.	1.9
10. Jeffers, Iowa E.	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 66e.	2.7
4. Gaffney, Utah F.	2.3
5. Whiteside, Reno B.	2.2
6. Naymick, Bakersfi.	2.2
7. Goodridge, Maine R.	2.1
8. Gladness, Dakota	2.0
9. Fall, Maine RC	1.9
10. Alabi, Erie Bay H.	1.8

Vipers, Energy ready for winner-take-all Game 3 - by Eurobasket News
The magnitude of their task finally sunk in on Wednesday when the Rio Grande Valley Vipers responded and evened their best-of-three series against Iowa Energy in the NBA Development League Finals.

Vipers coach Chris Finch wondered if his team realized it was playing in the Finals on Sunday in a disappointing Game 1 home loss. The Vipers rebounded from that loss to log a 141-122 win on Wednesday to set up tonights decisive, winner-take-all Game 3 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa.

'One of my messages to the team at the beginning was if I told you that you had one game to win the championship, you would take it', Finch said. 'Our task is simple, but its not easy. Our team feels good because they played to their potential, and when you do that you always have to feel good about your chances.'

The Vipers played well short of their potential on Sunday when the Energy rode a big third quarter, and more importantly, pushed around the Vipers to a 123-106 win in Game 1 in Hidalgo. On Wednesday, the Vipers responded with a huge offensive display and matched the Energys physical play to tie the series. The Vipers 141 points scored on Wednesday set a league playoff record.

'It feels good, especially after Sunday's game, because we know that we didnt play that well', Vipers guard Terrell Harris (6'5''-G-87, college: Oklahoma St.) said. 'We came out and fought back, and we didnt do that Sunday. It was almost like a relief and weve regained our confidence and now we have to try to finish off Game 3.'

The Vipers responded before a hostile crowd of 14,036 - the most ever to see a D-League game - in Iowa. Energy officials hope to match that number tonight. The team is promoting a two-for-one ticket offer in order to try to reach that goal. Finch thought the record crowd helped them realize the enormity of the series.

It was fantastic, Finch said of the crowd on Wednesday. Its a credit to the Iowa organization to get a crowd like that. It had a big-time atmosphere, and I think our guys were excited to play in that type of atmosphere.

The fact the Vipers had an answer for the Energy on Wednesday was the biggest difference. On Sunday, the Energy outscored the Vipers by 20 points in the third quarter to take control of the game. The Vipers didnt answer the call and they wilted as a result.

We played with a lot more energy and played with a lot more effort, said Vipers guard Jerel McNeal, who had 37 points on Wednesday and is averaging 27.4 points in the playoffs. We gave each other added lifts. You could feel the energy with everyone, just through everyones play. I think we got the wake-up call if we didnt play hard, there was going to be a celebration on that court (because of us).

Tonights game guarantees that there will be a celebration on the floor. The Vipers are seeking to become the second team in league history to win back-to-back championships. The Vipers won last years title at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo.

The Vipers have shown a pattern of responding in extremely high pressure situations. The Vipers improved to 6-0 in elimination games, including 3-0 this season. They also had the leagues best road record with two others during the regular season. Wednesday was the Vipers biggest test in a pressure-situation this season.

Weve played better on the road all year, Harris said. Thats where our unity comes in. It really comes together on the road. We dont like to lose back-to-back. Finals or no Finals, the most important part is that we didnt want to play bad again and go out like that.

The previous two games have been offensive showcases for both teams. Energy guard and league MVP Curtis Stinson has recorded triple-doubles in the first two games. All five Vipers starters scored double-figures and center Patrick Sullivan rebounded from a bad game Sunday with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Richard Roby gave the Vipers 28 points off the bench. Harris, the Vipers sixth-man, had 16 points and eight rebounds.

Although offense has been on display so far in the series, McNeal expects Game 3 to be more of a defensive showing. He said the Vipers are ready to play in that type of contest.

Its going to be a grinder, McNeal said. A 1-1 tie in the series and Game 3, theres not going to be anything easy. We definitely are (ready). If we are not ready to play that type of game, then we dont deserve to be champions.

Courtesy of www.themonitor.com

Iowa beats Vipers for D-League title - by Eurobasket News
Finals, Game 3: Iowa E. - Rio Grande 119-111
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers were outscored 21-5 in the first five minutes of the fourth quarter as the top-seeded Iowa Energy won their first NBA Development League Championship with a 119-111 victory in Game 3 of the best of three Finals Friday at Wells Fargo Arena. After going down 102-93, Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette) and Richard Roby (6'6''-G-85) hit back-to-back baskets to bring the Vipers (5-3) within five. The Vipers got as close as 105-101 with 4:00 remaining on a McNeal lay-up, but the Energy (6-2) maintained the lead the rest of the way. The Vipers were outscored 38-to-23 in the quarter. McNeal led the Vipers with 29 points, 11 rebounds and six assists. Matt Janning (6'4''-G/F-88, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Northeastern) also recorded a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds. The game featured seven lead changes in the first quarter, with neither team leading by more than two until the final minutes. The Vipers trailed 26-25 after Curtis Stinson hit a free throw with 3:14 remaining. Terrel Harris scored seven points as the Vipers followed with a 14-2 run to push their lead out to 39-28 with 1:00 remaining. Stefhon Hannah (6'1''-G-85, college: Missouri) and Ehambe Moses Randall (6'6''-G/F-86, college: ORU) hit back-to-back three-pointers in the final 22 seconds to bring the Energy back within five at 39-34. Hannah led the Energy with 31 points, eight rebounds, three assists and three steals. Michael Haynes (6'8''-F/C-81, college: Fordham) had 21 points, eight rebounds and four steals. The Vipers pushed their lead back out to 11 at 58-47 on a Janning three-pointer with 3:47 remaining in the second quarter, but Hannah scored six points as the Energy responded with a 15-1 run to take a 62-59 lead. The Vipers took the lead early in the third on a three-pointer by Jon Scheyer, but Ehambe answered right back. The Vipers scored the next eight points to build a 76-68 lead on a three-pointer by Connor Atchley with 7:07 remaining in the quarter. *Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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ESTONIA

Kalev Cramo vs Tartu Rock - by Julius Johnson
As expected, the powerhouse teams BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn and Tartu Rock will meet for the Estonian Championship.

Since the arrival to Kalev of NBA draft prospect Michael Dunigan (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9u5kKR9rFE), the season series is even at 2-2.

The first four games of the Championship will take place on May 4, 7, 10, and 14.

Live streaming video may be available at http://otse.err.ee/etv2/

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EUROCHALLENGE

KRKA Novo Mesto will face Lokomotiv in the 2011 EuroChallenge Final on Sunday - by Bert Larsimont

Amazing! Local star Thomas Van Den Spiegel (214-C-78) broke the rim during the warm-up session just a few seconds before the game and a former Belgium's Minister of the Interior Mr. Johan Vande Lanotte, also much involved in the Telenet Oostende's staff, brought a new one to repair it. Surrealistic! Just like what Belgium can be!

It was party time in Oostende on Friday night and you could really feel it in the stands of the Sleuyter Arena. An attendance of 3500 (mainly BCO fans, all wearing yellow T-shirts) enjoyed the whole repairing of the board and rim while the 10 KRKA Novo Mesto's players (10, not 12!) kept shooting and warming up on some excellent classic rock n' roll music.

The game finally started with a delay of almost 30 minutes and all supporters put their hands up in the air! A second surprise was to see Trevor Huffman (185-PG-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Kent St.) in the starting five for BCO. A former BCO player, Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket), opened the score for KRKA Novo Mesto of Slovenia but, well led by Trevor Huffman and after some intresting fastbreak situations concluded by spectacular dunks, Telenet Oostende quickly took a large advantage: 4-13. Boosted by a fantastic attendance BCO played at a right tempo but KRKA, step by step, came closer. Stupid turnovers by Telenet players allowed the Slovenians to recover the ball several times and it was 13-17 with 1:35 remaining in the first quarter. The first quarter ended on the following score: 14-19.

Both teams played a tough defense and no player seemed to take a leading role so far. Too many bad passes and turnovers... Caleb Green made 14-21 after 1:50 played in the second quarter. Thomas Van Den Spiegel and Marcus Faison (196-G-78, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Siena) were also on the floor for BCO. Telenet Oostende's Coach Jean-Marc Jaumin took a time-out when KRKA's US player Christopher Booker hit two easy baskets to set the score at 18-21. An intentional foul by Dusan Djordjevic (195-G-83, agency: Beo Basket) followed by another foul by Drobnjak gave BCO a chance to take a larger lead: 22-28 by Caleb Green from the free-throw line. KRKA players were mute in offense, mainly thanks to a great defensive job done by Thomas Van Den Spiegel. Lojeski on the other side of the court made 24-34 but two clutch plays on the KRKA side and, again, to many turnovers by BCO players put the Slovenians right on track: 29-34. Telenet Oostende have turned the ball over 13 times while KRKA collected 12 turnovers in the first half.

Once back on the floor, nothing changed. Both teams looked stressed ans it was turnover just after another. Goran Ikonic (196-G-80) made 36-36 on a long three-pointer. All of a sudden, BCO players looked feverish but three-pointers from downtown by Veselin Petrovic and Dusan Katnic made 38-42. Goran Ikonic, from three-point range and on an easy lay-up, was the focus of everyone's attention when he brought his KRKA team in front: 43-42. It was a close game. The third quarter finished on the following score: 49-50 for BC oostende on a last basket by Van den Spiegel after a great assist by Katnic!

The last quarter can be summarized in a few words and figures: 56-50 for Novo Mesto (again boosted by a fantastic Goran Ikonic of Bosnia) with 6:35 remaining in the game. Then BCO narrowed the gap at 63-55 on a three-pointer by Matt Lojeski but could not avoid another Slovenian rush to 65-55 with just 3:31 on the clock. Last efforts by Marcus Faison, Veselin Petrovic or Trevor Huffman were not enough to bring Telenet Oostende back in the race. Maybe Oostende expected too much from Belgian Lion Thomas Van Den Spiegel to make a difference but it did not help this time. The whole BCO group missed the 'rendez-vous'!

KRKA Novo Mesto definitely deserves the win. 79-65 is the final score.

Best scorers for KRKA Novo Mesto: Goran Ikonic 26, Christopher Booker 15, Dusan Djordjevic 10.
Best scorers for Telenet Oostende: Caleb Green 12, Matt Lojeski 11.

Spartak defeated by Lokomotiv in the first semi-final - by Bert Larsimont

The Sleuyter Arena looked almost empty when the ball was tipped off at the start the first semi-final between the two Russian teams involved in the 2011 Eurochallenge Final Four. A real shame when you think that current second and third ranked teams of the 2011 PBL (Russian league), a major one in Europe, were facing each other tonight!

Spartak Saint Petersburg, in white, started well but Lokomotiv Kuban, in red, reacted pretty quickly in the first quarter. Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) hit two shots from long range and Lionel Chalmers (184-G-80, college: Xavier) took advantages of a few Spartak turnovers to launch Lokomotiv fastbreaks. The scoreboard showed 6-16 with 3:38 remaining in the first quarter when Coach Zvi Sherf took a first time-out for Spartak. Chalmers and Massey took their role of leaders very seriously and Lokomotiv Kuban even led 6-18. Zupan inside and Antic from long range responded in an afficient way and Coach Kestutis Kemzura of Lokomotiv was forced to take a first timeout at 11-18. It did not help as the Spartak big men (Zupan, Antic and Popovic) brought their team back in the game 15-18 after two free-throws missed by Lokomotiv Kuban star Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) on the buzzer at the end of the first ten minutes.

Pat Beverely od Spartak made 18-18 from long range early in the second quarter but Massey and Chalmers of Lokomotiv Kuban put their team ahead again. Zupan was missing in the paint and from behind the arch and Lokomotiv stayed in front: 23-28. Many physical contacts in the paint and at rebounding... Domercant well defended by Alando Tucker (198-F-84, college: Wisconsin) suddenly woke up for Spartak to make 26-30 by hitting a three, his first and only in the first 20 minutes. It was not enough as Lokomotiv Kuban's trio Massey (12 points in the first half, 5/7 in field goals and 2/2 from three-point range), Tucker and Chalmers (14 points in the first half, 6/7 from the field and 1/1 from three-point range) ran fast down the court for some very spectacular lay-ups: 28-38. Spartak missed too many tip-ins and rebounds in the second quarter. It was 30-41 at half-time.

Spartak, led by Pero Antic, seemed to have better intentions in the start of the third quarter but both teams, with strong defenses, remained concentrated. It was still a 11-point margin in favour of Lokomotiv Kuban with 5:16 left in the quarter. The official speaker of the Sleuyter Arena named Alando Tucker a few times as the US pro player put his Lokomotiv team at full speed: 42-52. Defense became even tougher on both sides... but Massey kept scoring for the Reds. Despite many efforts by Domercant, Ponkrashov and Antic in offense, Spartak could not avoid a deficit of 10 points after 30 minutes of play: 50-60 shown on the scoreboard.

Aleksei Surovtsev (202-G-84) of Lokomotiv Kuban had played very well in this game so far. Spartak stayed close at 54-60 thanks to a hardworking Pero Antic underneath the basket. Turning the ball over was what could have been worse for any team at that stage but Lokomotiv did indeed. Lokomotiv Kuban's Jeremiah Massey nevertheless hit a very important three-pointer to make 54-65 and Spartak's Coach Zvi Sherf took a time-out. Patrick Beverley, injured, left the court with 4:15 remaining in this game. Two three-pointers in a row by his mate Nikola Dragovic (206-F-87, college: UCLA) allowed Spartak to stay in the race: 61-67. It was even 63-67 a few seconds later but Chalmers and Wilkinson gave some fresh air to Lokomotiv Kuban by scoring two easy lay-ups: 63-71 with just 1:37 left. After a few missed attempts in the paint by Spartak centers and a beautiful assist by Surovtsev to Tucker to make 63-74, everyone understood that his game was over. A last free throw for Spartak, which always trailed behind in this contest, fixed the final score at 64-74.

First surprise in this Final Four!

Best scorers for Spartak: Patrick Beverley 13, Pero Antic 14.
Best scorers for Lokomotiv Kuban: Jeremiah Massey 21, Lionel Chalmers 20 and Alando Tucker 18.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mohammed ABUKAR
  Lugano T.
  (208-F-85)
  Avg: 20.8

1. Abukar, Lugano T.	20.8
2. Trotter, Szolnok	19.4
3. Woodside, Gravelin.	18.5
4. Banks, Elitzur	17.8
5. Smith, Karsiyaka	17.7
6. Anderson, Ventspils	17.5
7. Hopkins, Antwerp	17.4
8. King, Etha	17.0
9. Stanescu, Steaua	16.8
10. Darden, Nancy	16.6

Rebounds Per Game

Callistus EZIUKWU
  TU/Rock
  (208-F/C-85)
  Avg: 10.5

1. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	10.5
2. Landry, BK Prost.	9.6
3. Clark, Szolnok	9.1
4. Kjellbom, Norrkopi.	9.1
5. Smith, Karsiyaka	9.0
6. Zoric, KK.	8.8
7. Bader, Szolnok	8.5
8. King, Etha	8.4
9. Brown, Elitzur	8.3
10. Massey, Lokomotiv	8.3

Assists Per Game

John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Linehan, Nancy	5.9
2. Millage, Khimik	5.9
3. Jackson, Maccabi	5.8
4. Brener, Elitzur	5.5
5. Woodside, Gravelin.	5.5
6. Trotter, Szolnok	5.3
7. Wood, Dt.	5.2
8. Draughan, Lugano	4.9
9. Ponkrashov, Spart.	4.8
10. Lawrence, BK Pros.	4.5

Steals Per Game

John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 4

1. Linehan, Nancy	4.0
2. Millage, Khimik	2.9
3. Vladovic, Zadar	2.4
4. Dabkus, Etha	2.3
5. Renfroe, KK.	2.3
6. Wilson, Antwerp	2.1
7. Holston, Karsiyaka	2.1
8. Trotter, Szolnok	2.1
9. Eldridge, Karsiyaka	2.0
10. Banks, Elitzur	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (214-C-86)
  Avg: 2

1. Mejri, Antwerp	2.0
2. King, Etha	2.0
3. Kjellbom, Norrkopi.	1.9
4. Akpomedah, Grave.	1.9
5. Stiemsma, Turk T.	1.8
6. Sene, Gravelines	1.8
7. Clark, Szolnok	1.6
8. Eziukwu, TU/Rock	1.5
9. Zavadsky, Khimik	1.4
10. Bader, Szolnok	1.4

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

EUROLEAGUE

Partizan locks prospect Nenad Miljenovic until 2015 - by Eurobasket News
Partizan announced signing of Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) to a four-year deal. One of the top Serbian prospects arrives from FMP Zeleznik, where he played for junior team. He helped FMP reach the Nike Euroleague Junior Tournament Final last year and was named MVP of this event (17.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 4.8 rpg and 2.5 spg). In 2009, Miljenovic led FMP to trophy at the same tournament. That same summer he paced U16 Serbia to Bronze medal at the U16 EuroBasket n Kaunas. He had 17.7 ppg, 7 rpg and 4.7 rpg for 9 games. Eurobasket.com awarded Miljenovic with All-European Championships U16 Best Guard. Last summer at the U17 World Championship in Hamburg Miljenovic averaged 15.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 3.1 apg. He also was a member of U18 Serbia.
Partizan defended Adriatic league title and Serbian Cup this season. They currently have 7-1 record in Serbian Superleague.

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

FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Matti Nuutinen changes the scenery - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Finnish F Matti Nuutinen (200-F-90) has signed a two-year-contract (2011-13) with Top League newcomer LoKoKo (Loimaa). Team Head Coach Greg Gibson is happy to get Nuutinen on his roster. Nuutinen stayed only one season at Salo (Vilpas Vikings) averaging 8,9 ppg - 5,2 rpg in 26:06 mpg and in 41 contests. Finnish NT PG Petri Virtanen (183-G-80) has re-signed with Kataja (Joensuu). The contract is for coming 2011-12 season. Virtanen will start his sixth season on Kataja roster. Team Kataja is still playing in the Finals. Virtanen is averaging 11,1 ppg, 2,5 rpg, 3,9 apg in 29:05 mpg and 51 games by now. Finnish G-F Sami Pekkola (200-F-83) is returning back to YMCA Lahti. Two seasons on YMCA Lappeenranta roster was actually one season as Pekkola didn't play a game 2010-11 being on injured list.

KORISLIIGA: Pyrinto - Kataja 2-1 - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, Finals, Game # 3: The home court advantage is still a big thing in the Finals. Pyrinto (Tampere) defeated Kataja (Joensuu) tonight in Tampere 74-66 (37-33) and leads now 2-1. Both teams have won the home games by now. Quarters: 16-18, 21-15, 22-19, 15-14. Game # 4 on Monday, May 2nd at Joensuu Arena. Game # 5 (if needed) on Wednesday, May 4, in Tampere.
Pyrinto had four, almost all starters in double figures this time. Pyrinto's defense was tough and Kataja's sharpshooters made only six 3-pointers in the contest. Kataja had only two players in double digits. Darren Fells (201-F/C-86, agency: Court Side) had a big night. Fells scored his season high 29 points. Jason Conley (196-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) added 18 pts. Sami Lehtoranta was early in foul troubles and played only 12:51 minutes. Antwine Williams (192-F-75, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: N.Colorado) led again Pyrinto as he did also in Game # 1. Antti Nikkila (210-F/C-78, college: Valparaiso) was finally on his own level (15/7). Damon Williams (201-F-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) had a double-double 14pts/12rbs.
Pyrinto - Kataja 74-66 (37-33). (Antwine Williams 16, Antti Nikkila 15, Damon Williams 14/12. 1 - 75% (18/24), 2 - 53% (25/47), 3 - 18% (2/11). R: 32+6=38. TO: 14. - Darren Fells 29, Jason Conley 18, Jared Newson 7/14. 1 - 75% (12/16), 2 - 51% (18/35), 3 - 21% (6/29). R: 25+10=35. TO: 13). Pyrinto - Kataja 2-1.

Korisliiga Round 3 of Finals - by Eurobasket News
Pyrinto - Kataja 74-66

The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 74-66. American players dominated the game. It was a good game for forward Damon Williams (201-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. Forward Antwine Williams (192-75, college: N.Colorado, agency: Prossin Sports Management) contributed with 16 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Four Tampereen Pyrinto players scored in double figures. Power forward Darren Fells (201-86, agency: Court Side) answered with 29 points and 6 rebounds and guard Jason Conley (196-81, college: Missouri, agency: Pro One Sports) added 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Joensuun Kataja.
Top scorers:
Pyrinto: A.Williams 16+6reb+2ast, A.Nikkila 15+7reb+1ast, D.Williams 14+12reb+1ast, K.Lowe 13+4reb+2ast, A.Lehto 9+2reb+3ast, O.Ahvenniemi 4
Kataja: D.Fells 29+6reb, J.Conley 18+5reb+5ast, J.Newson 7+14reb, P.Virtanen 7+3reb+4ast, J.Nenonen 3+4reb+1ast, S.Lehtoranta 2+2reb

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

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

1. Heard, Tarmo	21.9
2. Wilson, Honka	21.8
3. Wood, Karhu	20.6
4. Lewis, LrNM.	20.5
5. Bailey, LrNM.	19.6
6. Barrett, KTP	19.5
7. Walker, Kouvot	19.4
8. Blanchard, ToPo	19.4
9. Williamson, Honka	19.2
10. Baxley, Karhu	18.5

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Wood, Karhu	13.0
2. Kaunisto, Kouvot	10.6
3. Doaks, Salon Vilpas	10.1
4. Mathis, Namika Lah.	9.9
5. Williams, Pyrinto	9.7
6. Young, Tarmo	9.6
7. Vinson, Kouvot	9.0
8. Blanchard, ToPo	9.0
9. Coleman, LrNM.	8.8
10. Belser, Honka	8.5

Assists Per Game

Malik MOORE
  LrNM.
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Moore, LrNM.	4.8
2. Johnson, Karhu	4.8
3. Suonio, Namika Lah.	4.3
4. Williams, Pyrinto	4.2
5. Wood, Karhu	3.9
6. Virtanen, Kataja	3.9
7. Fields, KTP	3.6
8. Ivey, KTP	3.6
9. Sarcevic, Korihait	3.5
10. Wilson, Honka	3.3

Steals Per Game

Jerald FIELDS
  KTP
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Fields, KTP	2.1
2. Wood, Karhu	2.1
3. Williams, Pyrinto	1.9
4. Moore, Korihait	1.9
5. Conerly, Tarmo	1.8
6. Heard, Tarmo	1.7
7. Richards, ToPo	1.6
8. Ayers, Namika L.	1.6
9. Wilson, Salon Vilp.	1.6
10. Newson, Kataja	1.6

Blocks Per Game

James REAVES
  Korihait
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 0.8

1. Reaves, Korihait	0.8
2. Hendley, Namika La.	0.7
3. Heard, Tarmo	0.7
4. Bailey, LrNM.	0.7
5. Wilson, Honka	0.7
6. Young, Tarmo	0.6
7. Blanchard, ToPo	0.6
8. Makalainen, Karhu	0.6
9. Wright, Korihait	0.6
10. Suonio, Namika La.	0.6

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

FRANCE

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

1. Cholet		21-7
2. Nancy		19-9
3. Gravelines		19-9
4. Chalon		18-9
5. Roanne		17-10
6. ASVEL		17-11
7. Hyeres-Toulon		15-13
8. Le Mans		12-15
9. Pau-Lacq-Orthez		11-16
10. Le Havre		11-16
11. Poitierarleys		11-16
12. Paris-Levallois		11-17
13. Orleans		11-17
14. Strasbourg		10-17
15. Vichy		9-18
16. Limoges		8-20

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

1. Nanterre		23-8
2. Dijon		20-11
3. Rouen		19-12
4. Fos Ouest		19-13
5. Evreux		18-13
6. Chalons-Reims		17-14
7. Bourg		17-14
8. Le Portel		17-14
9. Boulogne		17-14
10. Boulazac		16-15
11. Maurienne		16-15
12. Nantes		16-16
13. Quimper		13-18
14. Antibes		13-18
15. Lille		13-19
16. St Vallier		12-20
17. Clermont		9-22
18. Charleville		6-25

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Rick HUGHES
  Hyeres-T.
  (204-C/F-73)
  Avg: 18.4

1. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	18.4
2. Jefferson, AS.	18.4
3. Mejia, Cholet	18.0
4. Nichols, Vichy	17.8
5. Darden, Nancy	17.1
6. Massie, Limoges	16.9
7. Shuler, Vichy	15.6
8. King, Le Havre	15.4
9. Hamilton, Paris-.	15.3
10. Schilb, Chalon	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Pops MENSAH-BONSU
  AS.
  (206-F-83)
  Avg: 9.9

1. Mensah-Bonsu, AS.	9.9
2. Massie, Limoges	9.2
3. Krupalija, Hyeres.	8.9
4. Akingbala, Nancy	8.4
5. Issa, Gravelines	8.1
6. Jones, Le Havre	7.9
7. Koffi, Le Mans	7.6
8. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	7.6
9. Jefferson, AS.	7.3
10. Nsonwu-Amadi, Ro.	7.2

Assists Per Game

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

1. Reid, Vichy	6.3
2. Woodside, Gravelin.	5.9
3. King, Le Havre	5.9
4. Taylor, Limoges	5.8
5. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	5.7
6. Wright, Limoges	5.5
7. Linehan, Nancy	5.5
8. Walsh, AS.	5.0
9. Diabate, Roanne	4.8
10. Sciarra, Pau-La.	4.7

Steals Per Game

John LINEHAN
  Nancy
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Linehan, Nancy	2.9
2. Diot, Le Mans	2.4
3. Walsh, AS.	2.2
4. Dobbins, Hyeres-T.	2.0
5. Darden, Nancy	2.0
6. Sangare, Le Havre	1.9
7. Elegar, Vichy	1.9
8. Diabate, Roanne	1.8
9. Albicy, Paris-Le.	1.8
10. Schilb, Chalon	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Cyril AKPOMEDAH
  Grave.
  (203-F-79)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Akpomedah, Grave.	1.8
2. Jefferson, AS.	1.5
3. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	1.5
4. Falker, Cholet	1.5
5. Sene, Gravelines	1.3
6. Akingbala, Nancy	1.3
7. Issa, Gravelines	1.3
8. Koffi, Le Mans	1.2
9. Fofana, AS.	1.1
10. Pasco, Strasbourg	1.1

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Moses SONKO
  Maurienne
  (196-F-83)
  Avg: 18.9

1. Sonko, Maurienne	18.9
2. Harris, Lille	18.6
3. Siggers, Rouen	18.5
4. Carter, Nanterre	17.9
5. Rouse, Charleville	17.1
6. Milbourne, Boulogne	16.2
7. Davis, Le Portel	16.2
8. Gay, Fos Ouest	15.9
9. Labeyrie, Le Portel	15.4
10. Daniels, Nanterre	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Korvotney BARBER
  Nantes
  (201-F-87)
  Avg: 10.2

1. Barber, Nantes	10.2
2. Mathis, Maurienne	9.4
3. Daniels, Chalons-.	9.4
4. Bing, Dijon	9.2
5. Rouse, Charleville	8.7
6. Wyatte, Le Portel	8.6
7. Monds, Bourg	8.5
8. Badiane, Boulazac	8.1
9. Monroe, Boulogne	8.0
10. Giles, Rouen	8.0

Assists Per Game

Philippe DA SILVA
  Evreux
  (192-G-79)
  Avg: 8

1. Da Silva, Evreux	8.0
2. Rowland, Le Portel	6.6
3. Downey, Nantes	5.8
4. Patiejunas, Boulo.	5.6
5. Oliver, Bourg	5.4
6. Williams, Le Portel	5.0
7. Taylor, Rouen	5.0
8. Mullins, Chalons-.	4.9
9. Craven, Dijon	4.7
10. Denave, St Vallier	4.6

Steals Per Game

Kyle SHILOH
  St Vallier
  (191-G-85)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.6
2. Doyne, Charleville	2.6
3. Riley, Nanterre	2.5
4. Daniels, Chalons-.	2.4
5. Craven, Dijon	2.4
6. Sonko, Maurienne	2.3
7. Patiejunas, Boulo.	2.2
8. Melody, Dijon	2.1
9. Hachad, Fos Ouest	2.1
10. Mullins, Chalons-.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

Sherman GAY
  Fos Ouest
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.7
2. Jefferson, Quimper	1.3
3. Monds, Bourg	1.0
4. Barber, Nantes	1.0
5. Daniels, Nanterre	0.9
6. Taccoen, Lille	0.9
7. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9
8. N''Diaye, Clermont	0.9
9. Davis, Evreux	0.9
10. Mathis, Maurienne	0.7

Tony Parker intends to play for France this summer - by Eurobasket News
Spurs guard Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) told a French television sports show that he plans to play for Frances team in this summers EuroBasket tournament in Lithuania.

Sporting News.com reported that a post on FIBA.com indicated Parker would be playing in the tournament. FIBA is the international governing body of basketball.

I will be at EuroBasket this summer, Parker said during an interview with a weekly sports television show in France. Im eager to get started. We have a really good team.

Parker told the television show that he was piqued to play for the French team because Chicago center Joakim Noah (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Florida) also is planning to play.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

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

FYR MACEDONIA

Stats Leaders - Superleague

Points Per Game

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

1. Matic, Kumanovo.	21.5
2. Jovanovic, Ultima.	20.3
3. Trajkovski, Torus	17.9
4. Petkovski, Pelist.	16.8
5. Filipovic, Ovce Po.	16.4
6. Morban, Lirija	16.4
7. Mirakovski, Rabot.	15.5
8. Nikolovski, MZT S.	15.2
9. Blazevski, Rabotni.	15.0
10. Anakievski, Pelis.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Gjorgje JOVANOVIC
  Ultima.
  (209-C-80)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Jovanovic, Ultima.	10.6
2. Jovanovic, Lirija	9.3
3. Nikolovski, MZT S.	8.8
4. Pavlovski, Lirija	8.4
5. Talevski, Pelist.	8.1
6. Chappell, ABA S.	7.7
7. Trajkovski, Torus	7.7
8. Rejnerio, Lirija	7.6
9. Jelesijevic, Torus	7.5
10. Dendra, Rabotnicki	7.3

Assists Per Game

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

1. Morban, Lirija	5.1
2. Kostovski, Torus S.	4.7
3. Mirakovski, Rabot.	4.6
4. Blazevski, Rabotni.	3.9
5. Petrovski, MZT S.	3.8
6. Mladenovic, Ultima.	3.7
7. Lazic, Ultimate.	3.3
8. Bogoev, Rabotnicki	3.2
9. Vukotic, Kumanovo.	3.1
10. Miljkovic, Torus	3.0

Steals Per Game

Gjorgi ANAKIEVSKI
  Pelist.
  (185-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Trajkovski, Torus	1.8
2. Chappell, ABA S.	1.4
3. Jelesijevic, Torus	1.2
4. Dendra, Rabotnicki	1.1
5. Petric, Kumanovo.	1.1
6. Simic, Rabotnicki	1.0
7. Gocevski, Rabotnic.	1.0
8. Krstevski, Torus S.	0.9
9. Avramovski, MZT S.	0.9
10. Frye, Feni Indist.	0.9

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

GERMANY

Standings - Pro B

ProB Standings

Group North
1. Schwelm		17-5
2. Herten		16-6
3. Vechta		16-6
4. Stahnsdorf		13-9
5. Wulfen		11-11
6. Leipzig		11-11
7. SU Medien		10-12
8. Bayer Giants		10-12
9. Rist-Wedel		9-13
10. ALBA Berlin II		9-13
11. Wolfenbuettel		6-16
12. Bernau		4-18
Group South
1. Ehingen		20-2
2. Leitershofen		17-5
3. NBC		17-5
4. Licher Baeren		16-6
5. Langen		14-8
6. BG Illertal		10-12
7. TSV Troester		10-12
8. Giessen		6-16
9. Gotha		6-16
10. Dt.Bank SKY II		6-16
11. Schwenningen		6-16
12. Konstanz		4-18

Eurobasket.com All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro A Awards 2010-11 - by Moritz Korff

All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro A 1st Team 2011

Shepherd

Hamann

Jeka

Yearby

Schoo

Player of the Year: Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86) of Dt.Bank SKY
Guard of the Year: Steffen Hamann (194-G-81) of B.Muenchen
Forward of the Year: Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86) of Dt.Bank SKY
Center of the Year: Bjorn Schoo (213-F/C-81) of Heidelberg
Most Improved Player of the Year: Bjorn Schoo (213-F/C-81) of Heidelberg
Import Player of the Year: Jevohn Shepherd (196-F-86) of Dt.Bank SKY
Domestic Player of the Year: Steffen Hamann (194-G-81) of B.Muenchen
Defensive Player of the Year: Steffen Hamann (194-G-81) of B.Muenchen
Newcomer of the Year: Tom Spoeler (206-F-88) of Osnabrueck
Coach of the Year: Torsten Loibl of Chemnitz

1st Team
G: Steffen Hamann (194-81) of B.Muenchen
G: Lee Jeka (187-83) of Wuerzburg
F: Jevohn Shepherd (196-86) of Dt.Bank SKY
F: Deilvez Yearby (198-87) of Cuxhaven
F/C: Bjorn Schoo (213-81) of Heidelberg

2nd Team
PG: Gary Johnson (188-82) of Chemnitz
G: Kejuan Johnson (193-85) of Webmoebel
F/G: Terren Harbut (198-83) of Chemnitz
F: Aleksandar Nadjfeji (203-76) of B.Muenchen
F: Marcus Smallwood (198-82) of Kirchheim

Honorable Mention
Chris Alexander (186-G-83) of ETB Wohnbau
Jeremy Black (203-F-85) of Karlsruhe
Cedric Brooks (185-G-80) of Kirchheim
Aaron Cook (186-G-83) of Cuxhaven
Stephen Cramer (188-G-84) of Braves
Ryan De Michael (205-F/C-77) of Kirchheim
Kameron Gray (186-PG-82) of Crailsheim
Jonathan Levy (193-G-82) of Wuerzburg
Martin Samarco (191-G-85) of Webmoebel
Stuart Turnbull (188-G-84) of Hannover
Jonathan Wallace (187-G-86) of B.Muenchen
Sanijay Watts (193-F-87) of Dragons

All-Domestic Players Team
PG: Achmadschah Zazai (177-86) of Chemnitz
G: Steffen Hamann (194-81) of B.Muenchen
G/F: Max Weber (201-85) of Braves
F: Rouven Roessler (200-80) of Karlsruhe
F/C: Bjorn Schoo (213-81) of Heidelberg

All-Imports Team
PG: Gary Johnson (188-82) of Chemnitz
G: Lee Jeka (187-83) of Wuerzburg
F: Jevohn Shepherd (196-86) of Dt.Bank SKY
F: Deilvez Yearby (198-87) of Cuxhaven
F: Marcus Smallwood (198-82) of Kirchheim

All-Defensive Team
Steffen Hamann (194-G-81) of B.Muenchen
Stuart Turnbull (188-G-84) of Hannover
Gordon Scott (195-G/F-76) of Kirchheim
Deilvez Yearby (198-F-87) of Cuxhaven
Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann (207-C-90) of Telekom Baskets

All-Newcomers Team
Anthony Canty (183-G-91) of Bremerhaven
Fabian Thulig (196-F-89) of Telekom Baskets
Ben Spoeler (206-F-88) of Webmoebel
Tom Spoeler (206-F-88) of Osnabrueck
Jonas Wohlfarth-Bottermann (207-C-90) of Telekom Baskets

Jacob Burtschi (Phoenix Hagen) 2011 beko BBL Playoff Thoughts - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jacob Burtschi (198-F-84, college: Air Force) is a 26 year old 198cm forward from Chickasha, Oklahoma who is a rookie this season for Phoenix Hagen. He played at the Air Force from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 35 games averaging 13.5ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 49.7%, 3Pts: 39.0%, FT: 77.3%. He had offers to play in the NBA, but served in the Air Force the last three years and could only play club ball. Some achievements that he got in the NCAA were All-MWC Honorable Mention -05, MWC Regular Season Runner-Up -06, All-MWC 2nd Team -06, 07, NABC All-NCAA District 13 2nd Team -07, and NIT Final Four -07. He spoke to eurobasket concerning the 2011 beko BBL playoffs.

Do you think the first round of the beko bbl playoffs will be as exciting and unpredictable as the current NBA playoffs?

I think the nba playoffs are little more exciting, but there will be some great basketball in the first round of these playoffs.

What is your own personal summary of the 2010-2011 Phoenix Hagen season? What were the highlights of the season?

Up and down. Struggled during that 7 game losing streak, but life was much nicer after the all star break

How do you see the series Bamberg-Bremerhaven? Will this be a sweep for Bamberg?

I believe it will be a sweep becauseBamberg is that good but they arent unbeatable.

What will Bremerhaven have to do to win this tough series?

Out work, out play, out hustle every minute of the series

How do you see the series Alba Berlin-EWE Baskets Oldenburg? This could be one of the exciting ones?

This is a great matchup. Great players.

Could this series go 5 games?

This could easily go 5 games

Does Alba Berlin have what it takes to become champion? Could Taylor Rochestie be the missing piece to puzzle?

Alba Berlin has been much better since they changed coaches. They have the talent.

How do you see the Frankfurt-BG Goettingen series?

Probably the most interesting. BG Goettingen is playing well at the right time for an upset

What will Goettingen have to do besides control Dashaun Wood to win?

Play their style

How do you see the series Artland Dragons-Braunschweig?

2 well rounded teams who are similar. This can go either way.

Could one of these teams reach the beko BBL final?

Any team could reach the finals

Why are the Lakers, Spurs and Mavericks playing so weak?

They are in the playoffs playing a great team every night.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

The other guys

Thanks for the chat Jacob.

Brose Baskets Bamberg-Eisbaeren Bremerhaven 2011 Playoff preview 3----0 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The cities Munich and Bamberg in size are about as similar as Hollywood actress Emma Thompson and Diva Paris Hilton have in their acting ability, but when it comes to basketball this season, both clubs dominated their respective leagues losing only two games. The only difference is that The Brose Baskets Bamberg are playing for their fourth beko BBL league championship and FC Bayern Munich are still dreaming of their first. However this duel could become reality in the next years, but first Bamberg has to overcome their first hurdle in the quarterfinals of the playoffs against The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. The Brose Baskets Bamberg dominated the league this season winning convincingly most of the time and with a straight ahead urgency to mow down the competition the same way Mike Tyson did his opponents back in the day, that one may have wondered that each member of the team had been promised some incredible wish by manager mastermind Wolfgang Heyder or might have taken a chapter out of the BG Goettingen secret by creating their own bat cave under the Stechert arena where the team could plot and continue to get better keeping their development a mystery. Bamberg was as dominant this season the way Skyliner MVP DaShaun Wood (185-G-85, college: Wright St.) takes apart defenses, the way Boston Celtic Rajon Rondo (186-G-86, college: Kentucky) can be when he wants to especially in game 3 against The New York Knicks or the way Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (211-F-78) played at the 2005 European championships almost guiding Germany to a gold medal with his scoring from all over the court. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven on the other hand come into the playoffs in compariosn to Bamberg a full 180 degrees as they ended the season in seventh place having to win their last game in Ulm. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven want to improve their bitter semi final game 5 loss to the Deutsche Bank Skyliners last season, but can they beat the Los Angeles Lakers of the beko BBL Bamberg in a five game playoff series? Some the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven have that Frankfurt loss in the back of their minds and will want to do it right this time around. Bremerhaven will have Upset engraved in their minds and will have to be as alert against Bamberg like a young and naive sea gull landing on a strange looking white piece of ice that is really a polar bear ready to stomp on its prey, the way ex NBA player Jason Williams (186-G-75, college: Florida) was when he made beautiful crossover against Gary Payton (196-G-68, college: Oregon St.) or Kemba Walker (185-PG-90) possibly having to have to hire a personal assistant to answer all the calls from NBA general managers. Last season the top four teams were ousted in the quarterfinals as upsets were a normal procedure like putting on sun block in the summer time in Dubai, but would anyone bet their home sweet home on the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven against Bamberg?

The Brose Baskets Bamberg only lost two games all season and had a huge advantage over most of the other 17 BEKO BBL teams in that they have kept a core of their team. This season Bamberg has kept many teams off guard with not just one style of play. We can play a multitude of different styles. We have players on our roster that can do everything. The style we play depends on our opponent and style of game they play. We will always be able to tailor our game to match the opponent, added Bamberg forward Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86). It seems like Bamberg have no weak spot at any position. We are a strong team and have depth at every position with a number of players being able to play multiple positions, said Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86). But the biggest strength of the Brose Baskets Bamberg is something that every team in basketball any where on earth strive to have. We simply play team basketball. We have developed a chemistry in a short time. There is no player on this team that is looking for individual stats. Each guy is interested in trying to do what is best for the team to have success, warned Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86). The Brose Baskets Bamberg started off the season so hot winning their first 17 games in a row that it seemed like talk of an undefeated season was not a far fetched idea. However the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf proved that anything is possible in the BEKO BBL as they upset Bamberg 72-69. 'A season is long and tough and it is really tough to go undefeated at anything. One should not forget that Bamberg played very many games already', stated John Bynum (191-G-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Metro St.) They have blown away most of the competition with ease holding teams to under 70 teams 26 times. They average 81 points per game and have only built on the strong team chemistry that was already present early in the season. 'Bamberg seem to get better with each game that they have played. The Euroleague games also have helped them get better', added John Bynum You would have thought that teams would have an easier time the second time around, but that wasnt the case. 'In the second half of the season, teams are able to see more of a pattern of play of their opponents and know more about each individual player by film and other things that they didnt have in the first half. After playing a team once, you are better at evaluating things better and you can also see them play against teams before you as well', said John Bynum But Bamberg lost only once in the second half of the season in Goettingen and won each home game.

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven finished the season in 8th place catching the last playoff spot on the last game day finishing with a record of 18-16. The biggest problem that coach Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops ) had during the season was having that solid and stable point guard duo for a whole season. A big part of the success of Bremerhaven last season was point guard Lou Campbell that carried the team the whole season and his departure was felt quickly this season. It was no easy task for ex Paderborn coach Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops ) to find the adequate replacement for such an important player like Campbell. Spradley showed in preseason that he wouldnt settle for anything but the best as he brought in a few point guards with Americans Jamar Butler (185-G-85, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Ohio St.) and Dominic Waters (185-G-86, college: Portland St.), but wasnt totally pleased or overwhelmed with their skills that he sent them away again. Shortly before the season started he got American Donald Copeland who seems to have struck the right Spradley taste buds and has taken over for Campbell. Copeland was solid averaging 7,1ppg, 4,1apg and 1,7rpg, but no Lou Campbell. Spradley never really seemed happy with his point guard play that he brought in American Tyrone Brazelton (185-G-86, college: W.Kentucky) who played had played in Poland last season including Euroleague with Asscom Prokom, but he only played 8 games averaging 7,9ppg, 2,4apg and 1,6rpg. He then got injured again and Spradley was playing Lotto again with the hope of landing a strong point guard and we seems to have done it grabbing two along the way with Terrell Everett (193-G-84, college: Oklahoma) who is a 26 year old 193cm combo guard has been around the block having played in France, Czeck Republic, Greece, Cyprus and in the D-League. He is a slasher, but can play the point, possesses great court vision and is a great passer. He is averaging 12,2ppg, 4,2rpg and 3,8apg. The other player that Spradley brought in was experienced ex NBA player Jamison Brewer (193-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: Auburn) that played for the Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves from 2001-2006. He is a tall 193cm point guard that defends well, can post up and sets up his teammates. He is the only player in division one history to lead his team in rebounds and assists as a point guard at Auburn where Skyliner Quantez Robertson (190-G-84, college: Auburn) played. Both guys average half of the teams assists and since their arrival the team has a record of 6-4 and the team is stronger with their arrival.

Their 18-16 record seems a bit deceiving since the team is loaded with talent, but have lost 10 games. 'They have been up and down this season, but they have a talented team that could compete with anyone in the league', stated John Bynum The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven have been up and down this season having two four game winning streaks and three three game losing streaks. The club seems to be one of those teams that can serve up a basketball masterpiece and the next day stink up the arena with rotten basketballs. 'I just think they have to find consistency like other teams in the league as well. They have a lot of talent on the team but they cant seem to put on a run but you cant underestimate a team of there caliber either', commented John Bynum Bremerhaven has had some big wins against The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig, Artland Dragons, BG Goettingen, Oldenburg and TBB Trier, but are unable to put a dent in the games of the top three teams Bamberg, Frankfurt and Berlin. 'I'm not sure what it is but I think it could be experience but at the same time, if a couple of balls bounce their way they could easily have had a different record as well. They obviously miss guys like Campbell and Gibbs but I'm sure they miss other guys who helped them achieve there success last season as well', said John Bynum Their defense is also a question mark. Sometimes they come on the court and defend as if its their last game keeping a very talented offensive team with BBC Bayreuth to 56 points, but other days seem to be with one foot on the court and the other somewhere in the Bremerhaven aquarium as they let up 100 or more points five times this season to teams like Phoenix Hagen and Ratiopharm Ulm. It also didnt help the team that they lost leading scorer Torrell Martin to injury as he has missed 12 games, but the team played solid posting a 7-5 record.

When breaking down both teams position by position, one has to give the huge edge to The Brose Baskets Bamberg at the guard position despite Bremerhaven acquiring Everett and Brewer. Bamberg have the absolute top guard trio in the beko BBL with John Goldsberry (191-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: NC-Wilmington), Brian Roberts (188-G-85) and Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports). All three of them bring something different to the table. Goldsberry (4,3ppg, 4,4apg, 1,7rpg, 1,3spg) might only shoot if Fleming tells Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) to sit on him if he doesnt, but the Ohio native doesnt need to shoot. He is about as pure an unselfish point guard that one will ever see. He may be the best floor general in the beko BBL. He is a unrelentless defender that is in your face until you have to slap him away. He once got 10 steals with Leverkusen. Anton Gavel (189-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports) (10,1ppg, 2,4rpg, 2,0apg) is a solid combo guard that might have a competition with Brian Roberts (188-G-85) as to who can score the most points in the shortest time. His shot isnt pretty, but he makes the clutch shots and defends like a pit bull to pit bull brother Goldsberry. Brian Roberts (188-G-85) (10,1ppg, 2,2rpg, 3,3apg is the third guard in the trio that can decide games at an instance and will put up bombs from anywhere on the court no matter how well he is covered and make them often. He is also an aggressive defender that keeps developing well in his third season as a professional and he is a guy that could land at a top Euroleague team. Bamberg coach Chris Fleming (agency: Pro One Sports ) also has the option of bring young German Karsten Tadda (189-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports) (3,5ppg, 1,3rpg, 1,0apg) that brings added energy to the defense and will score when needed. Maurice Stuckey (187-G-90, agency: Pro One Sports) (2,7ppg, 1,0rpg) got more playing time this season and also helps with his athletic play and can score. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven have a solid core with Everett, Brewer and Brazelton, but they lack the togetherness that the Bamberg guards have. The Bamberg trio have a huge advantage in that the new Eisbaeren duo of Everett and Brewer have never witnessed the forceful defense of Goldsberry, Gavel and Roberts and will have their hands full. If they cant get into a groove against them, then it will be very difficult for Bremerhaven too win.

The forward edge also goes to the Brose Baskets Bamberg. A team cant go wrong when you have a trio of Predrag Suput (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) (12,6ppg, 4,2rpg, 1,7apg) who is a beko BBL MVP candidate every season so it seems, Casey Jacobsen (198-G/F-81, college: Stanford) (12,2ppg, 3,5rpg, 3,0apg) who has 279 NBA games under his belt and might be the most professional player in the beko BBL and Reyshawn Terry (203-F-84, college: N.Carolina) (10,0ppg, 5,2rpg) who won the NCAA tournament with North Carolina and gives the club athletic energy from the bench and just does so many things to help the team. Suput may be about as far away from making an athletic move the way Shaq is, but Suput is one of top power forwards in the beko BBL. When he gets the ball in the post, an opponent can mostly just pray that he misses. He scores in bunches as well as a DaShaun Wood. If a Pleiss somehow gets boxed out and the guards arent near the hoop, then usually a Terry will come flying in to make the big play. Terry is his best on transition which when he scorers raises the decibel level of the Stechert arena to its fullest. The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven have an effective bunch with small forwards Philipp Schwethelm (201-F-89, agency: Pro One Sports) (9,8ppg, 3,9rpg, 2,1apg and John Allen (194-G/F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Seton Hall) (9,6ppg, 3,7rpg, 2,6apg and power forwards Andrew Drevo (202-F/C-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Nebraska) (9,8ppg, 4,8rpg, 1,2apg and Craig Callahan (203-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: NC-Wilmington) ( 15,0ppg, 4,4rpg, 1,0apg). Schwethelm has played a very consistent season continuing to develop scoring in double figurers 17 times and twice had double doubles showing he can give stability under the boards. He is a good defender and likes to set up his teammates. Bremerhaven is the perfect team for Schwethelm as he has a certain freedom for Spradley, but the FC Bayern Munich rumors of him going there next season seem to be there. Allen is continues to show his swingman qualities as he can be a huge problem for lots of defenses; can deliver some driving dunks and also display a deft shooting touch from the perimeter; this double dimension make him a very tough player to guard. Drevo has had an up and down seasons coring in double figurers 17 times, but then again had games where he didnt find his touch. he did finish the season on a good note with good games against Alba Berlin and Ratiopharm Ulm. He has good size and can run the floor while adding a solid presence in the paint. He is an all-around player, can pass well inside and has the ability to step outside the arc, which will create match up problems for opposing defenses. Callahan has had a strong season having to step up even more in the scoring department since the injury to Torrell Martin (196-G/F-85, agency: 540 Sports, college: Winthrop) Callahan will have to bring his A-game in every game against Bamberg for his team to be successful.

The center position edge also goes to Bamberg with German national player Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) and American Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) against the Bremerhaven duo of Canadian national player Sean Denison (210-F/C-85, college: Santa Clara) and Maksym Shtein. One should not forget that Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops ) can insert Callahan at center if he wishes. Pleiss who was drafted by the New Jersey Nets last summer and picked up by the Oklahoma Thunder is another player that has performed for Chris Fleming (agency: Pro One Sports ). Pleiss is averaging 9,4ppg, 6,8rpg and the second best shot blocker in the league at 1,8 per game. With his 214cm, Pleiss is there to grab any ball near the hoop and scoring isnt as necessary with all the scorers in the team, but he showed time in and time out that scoring out of the low post is something that he can do on a consistent basis as he scored in double figurers 17 times. His big strength lies in the defense as his height gives opponents problems shooting around the bucket. Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86) is averaging 10,1ppg and 4,4rpg and would be a starter on any other team, but with Bamberg comes into the game late in the first quarter. He is a powerful player who loves to attack the basket. Has a good 1-vs-1 game and likes to go inside. He is undersized to play the power forward, but his great wingspan (7-1) allows him to guard taller players and to intimidate. He's also a great leaper and reads the opponent's game well. 'My game is similar to Chuck Hayes (198-F-83, college: Kentucky) or Paul Millsap (201-F-85, college: Louisiana Tech)', added Kyle Hines (198-F/C-86). For the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven, Sean Denison (210-F/C-85, college: Santa Clara) is averaging 7,9ppg and 3,9rpg. He has a great post-up game, runs like a deer and has a tremendous shooting touch for a big man. Maksym Shtein most likely wont see much playing time, because Spradley will play with Drevo and Callahan at the same time having two power forwards in at times to bring the unpredictable and three point shot surprise.

The Brose Baskets Bamberg enter this playoffs series as the big favorite and going home for an early summer vacation is about as unlikely as a polar bear hanging out in a hot sauna. The Brose Baskets Bamberg won the season series winning at home 75-66 and on the road 73-58. Bamberg belong to the top offensive teams in the league, have six of the top seven team scorers that shoot 40% or better from the field and from the parking lot, are the best defensive team, get the least fouls, and have 6 players in the top 10 plus-minus stats. Bremerhaven not only has to have an unbelievably incredible day on the court on offense and defense, but might also want to do some praying before each game, because last year or years past, this would have been an interesting series, but Bamberg has grown as a team in the 12 months and are simply a class above the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in every aspect of the game. The most important thing that Bremerhaven have to do is not let Bamberg get in a rhythm which already is nearly impossible and just be as disruptive as possible and just mix it up as much as possible on defense. Bremerhaven will have to find success against the uncomfortable aggressive Bamberg defense. Bremerhaven has to play their game and not let Bamberg take them out of their sets and start from 25 feet and out. Bamberg pressures the ball so well and deny the lanes all the way out to the half court. Bremerhaven needs to execute on offense and take Bamberg out of their offensive sets. But the key will be controlling the Bamberg guards. Bremerhaven has to attack them at all times because they are very tough. They have to be aggressive and attack their guards at all times. Dont let them get in a flow, but disrupt them. On offense, Bremerhaven should try to attack Suput, because he is their weakest defender and get Roberts involved on the pick and role as they are a bit suspect there and get Pleiss to come out more to get some room in the lane for the Bremerhaven guards. If Bamberg gets off to a 10-2 or 12-4 start as they often do and then just play their game, then they will win. The Brose Baskets Bamberg host The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven in game one Sunday May 1st.

Steven Wright (Gloria Giants Duesseldorf) I Remember You Saying Pigs Will Fly If We Won One Game In Alba Berlin Series 2009 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Steven Wright (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: N.Kentucky) is a 27 year old 191cm guard from Dayton, Ohio. He is playing his fourth season in the BEKO BBL for the Gloria Giants Duesseldorf. He is an extremely athletic combo guard with great quickness, an explosive leaper and has great ball handling and passing skills. He hurts you with his penetration or a pull up for the mid ranged jumper, pick and roll, coming off picks for the shot, and when left open he'll hit the three pointer also. At the same time he is an unselfish player who creates scoring opportunities for others and has a very good ability to finish around the basket. He is a great defensive player because of his quickness and athletic abilities and is a great and mature person with a good work ethic. He played at Bowling Green from 2002-2006. He finished his NCAA career at Northern Kentucky in 2006-2007 averaging 16,8 ppg., 5,3 rpg., 3,2 apg., 1,6 spg., FG: 46.1%, 3PT: 34,6%, FT 77,5%. In 2007, he came to Germany an dplayed for The New York Phantoms Braunschweig averaging 7.4ppg, 2.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.6spg, 2FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 32.6%, FT: 75.5% in 34 games. In 2008-2009, he helped lead The Paderborn Baskets into the BEKO BBL playoffs averaging 7.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.9apg, FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 77.2% in 36 games. Lasts eason, he played for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen playing 26 games: 5.5ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 42.0%, 3PT: 29.9%, FT: 81.6%. He spoke to eurobasket prior to the start of the 2011 beko BBL playoffs.

What was your personal favorite moment of the 2010-2011 season in Germany?

My favorite moment was beating Bamberg giving them the first lose of the season.

How tough was it playing better at end of season, but still not staying in beko BBL? 1 or 2 more wins and the club would of stayed in league.

It was very tough. At the start of the season I wasnt in shape. I was home dealing with family matters so my focus wasnt on the game of basketball. I got back in shape around Decemeber and I was good to go. If though we was losing i finished the season strong...so that was positive in a way.

Will Murat Didin be able to make Duesseldorf into a winner in next years?

I hope so. Dusseldorf is a nice city to play the game of basketball. I wish things could have been better. It was embarrassing going out to play every game knowning your sitting in last place. I dont want to experience something like that again.

Do you think the first round of the beko bbl playoffs will be as exciting and unpredictable as the current NBA playoffs?

This year playoffs is going to be crazy. Everyone can win. I think its going to be a surprise winner this season mark my words lol.

How do you see the series Bamberg-Bremerhaven? Will this be a sweep for Bamberg?

Im sure coach Spradley will have something in store. He had us prepared a few years ago when berlin was suppose to sweep us in paderborn. I remember you saying pigs will fly if we won one game in the 2009 Alba Berlin series lol.

What will Bremerhaven have to do to win this tough series?

They have to minus the mistakes and control Suput. They must make them work on offense.

How do you see the series Alba Berlin-EWE Baskets Oldenburg? This could be one of the exciting ones?

I think Berlin will win this series. We had them on the rope last game of the season and we was young. Berlin has alot of vet guys they will get the job done.

Could this series go 5 games?

I think the series will be a sweep.

Does Alba Berlin have what it takes to become champion? Could Taylor Rochestie be the missing piece to puzzle?

Yes they have great players. Derrick Allen, Jenkins, and they unleashed Taylor he should have been playing more minutes.

How do you see the Frankfurt-BG Goettingen series?

I think Gottingen will win this series. They play very tough on defense. Im sure coach Patrick will have a nice game plan.

What will Goettingen have to do besides control Dashaun Wood wt win?

He is the first person they have to control. They cant let him get in the lane and make other players better.

How do you see the series Artland Dragons-Braunschweig?

I think that will be the best series of the 1st round. Braunschweig been playing real well. Its going to go down who wants it the most. They match up together.

Could one of these teams reach the beko BBL final?

Yes i think either one of these teams can reach the playoffs.

Why are the Lakers, Spurs and Mavericks playing so weak?

They getting old! lol

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

I watched Lil Rascals with my beautiful daughter

Thanks Steve for the chat

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

GREECE

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game

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

1. Marshall, PAOK	17.2
2. Smith, Panellinios	16.7
3. Baxter, Ilysiakos	15.9
4. Palacio, Kavala	15.7
5. Kalathis, VAP K.	14.9
6. Thompson, Ikaros	14.1
7. Dikoudis, AEK	14.1
8. Kiritsis, Ilysiakos	13.9
9. Jorovic, Kavala	13.7
10. Harris, Ikaros	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Cedric SIMMONS
  Kavala
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 9.8

1. Simmons, Kavala	9.8
2. Thompson, Ikaros	8.8
3. Bagaric, Marousi	8.4
4. Kalathis, VAP K.	8.4
5. Smith, Panellinios	7.7
6. Papadopoulos, PAOK	7.5
7. Tucker, Aris	7.4
8. Looby, Peristeri GS	7.1
9. Dawson, Ilysiakos	6.6
10. Kommatos, Marousi	6.5

Assists Per Game

Jared JORDAN
  VAP K.
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Jordan, VAP K.	5.7
2. Spanoulis, Olympia.	5.5
3. Teodosic, Olympiak.	4.9
4. Diamantidis, Panat.	4.4
5. Karydas, Ilysiakos	4.0
6. Papaloukas, Olymp.	3.9
7. Palacio, Kavala	3.8
8. Xanthopoulos, Pane.	3.7
9. Gagaloudis, Marousi	3.5
10. Parker, Iraklis	3.4

Steals Per Game

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

1. Parker, Iraklis	2.0
2. Grundy, AEK	1.9
3. Papaloukas, Olymp.	1.8
4. Karydas, Ilysiakos	1.8
5. Baxter, Ilysiakos	1.8
6. Anderson, Panionios	1.7
7. Marshall, PAOK	1.7
8. Xanthopoulos, Pane.	1.7
9. Kojadinovic, Marou.	1.5
10. Papamakarios, Pan.	1.5

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Simmons, Kavala	1.9
2. Bagaric, Marousi	1.9
3. Elonu, Panionios	1.7
4. Thompson, Ikaros	1.3
5. Looby, Peristeri GS	1.2
6. Dunston, Aris	0.9
7. Nesterovic, Olymp.	0.9
8. Harissis, VAP K.	0.9
9. Gechevski, PAOK	0.7
10. Dozier, PAOK	0.7

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

GUYANA

Guyana set to return to CBC Championships - by Kristian Santiago
Written by Rawle Toney (Guyana Chronicle)

LOCAL basketball players seemed jubilant yesterday when president of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) David Patterson announced that Guyana will be represented at the 2011 Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championships, to be held in the Bahamas from July 25 toAugust 5.
Thirteen countries had signalled their intention to compete this year but up to press time, a confirmation as to how many have met yesterdays deadline for registration which is US1010 per team (male and female) and an affiliation fee of US$200.
In the case of Guyana, the GABF only had to pay $1,210 since they will only be sending one team - the men - to the championship which, according to Patterson was due to a failed proposal by the Womens Basketball Association to secure funding for females out of the USA (which) was unsuccessful.
Guyana have always been known as a powerhouse at the event; competing in 11 of the 20 tournaments which started in 1981, formally known as the CARICOM Championships until it was changed to the CBC in 2002.
However, after placing third in 2000 when Barbados hosted the Championships, Guyana returned in 2007 (Puerto Rico) with two teams but the females, who would have finished in third place, were disqualified for not proving their nationality as Guyanese.
The male team was made up of all overseas-based Guyanese after the selected locals at the time (Steve Neils Jr, Nkossi Gurrick, Jason Alonzo and Andrew Ifill) were all denied their US visas, needed to enter the Island of Puerto Rico.
As it is right now, we are looking to send a 100% Guyana-based team, explained the GABF vice-president Floyd Levi when contacted yesterday by Chronicle Sport.
An estimated US$17 000 (G$3.4M) was budgeted by the GABF to send the male team to the Bahamas using Caribbean Airlines, but, Levi said that with an introduction of a new Airline (RED JET) into the market offering lower prices, it means that their original target would be less to meet.
Its rather unfortunate that we cant send both teams to the Bahamas this year, so we took the decision to just send the men because we really want our locals to have some sort of experience and exposure to higher talents and competition, Levi said.
Asked if the Federations decision was based on the introduction of Red Jet in the Caribbean, Levi said, Not really because we were looking at it with the other airlines, but anyone would want to save, so it also means that our target would be less and we would be more able to properly prepare the team.
The Federation, Levi says, will now turn its attention to the completion of its National Club championships which is presently at its Final stage - Ravens against Courts Pacesetters on Friday April 29 and will host an Inter-Association tourney.
As Chairman of the selection committee, I would really want to give our best players a chance of making this team but our window is still open to overseas players, Levi said, adding but we would have to set selection criteria for the overseas people to meet because, like I said earlier, we are looking to send an all-GT-based team presently.

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

HOLLAND

Stats Leaders - Eredivisie

Points Per Game

Glenn STOKES
  BS Weert
  (170-G-76)
  Avg: 17

1. Stokes, BS Weert	17.0
2. Blue, Giants	16.3
3. Boxley, ZZ Leiden	15.6
4. Laing, Magixx	15.0
5. Mills, Eiffel Towe.	14.9
6. Tiedeman, Giants	14.9
7. McGhee, ZZ Leiden	14.8
8. Kimbrough, Giants	14.7
9. Brown, DeFriesland	14.6
10. Adako, DeFriesland	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Robbie SIHOTA
  Rotterdam
  (198-F-87)
  Avg: 10.6

1. Sihota, Rotterdam	10.6
2. McDermott, Magixx	10.0
3. Hilliman, Rotterdam	9.6
4. Haryasz, GasTerra	9.3
5. Sanchez, DeFriesl.	8.8
6. Griffin, Giants	8.4
7. Ellis, GasTerra	8.0
8. de Randamie, ABC	8.0
9. Jackson, Eiffel T.	7.7
10. McGhee, ZZ Leiden	7.6

Assists Per Game

Frank TURNER
  Eiffel T.
  (178-G-88)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Turner, Eiffel T.	5.5
2. Bauscher, GasTerra	4.8
3. Stokes, BS Weert	4.0
4. Kimbrough, Giants	3.9
5. Jansen, Eiffel T.	3.7
6. Marshall, Lands.	3.6
7. Slagter, ZZ Leiden	3.5
8. Bostain, GasTerra	3.4
9. Williams, DeFriesl.	3.3
10. Mladenovic, Rotte.	3.1

Steals Per Game

Jason DOURISSEAU
  GasTe.
  (196-G-83)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Dourisseau, GasTe.	2.3
2. Taylor, Magixx	2.2
3. Turner, Eiffel T.	2.2
4. Stokes, BS Weert	2.1
5. Marshall, Lands.	2.1
6. Bostain, GasTerra	2.0
7. Jackson, ZZ Leiden	2.0
8. Ellis, GasTerra	2.0
9. McGhee, ZZ Leiden	2.0
10. Williams, DeFries.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Marcel AARTS
  Eiffel T.
  (213-C-83)
  Avg: 1.3

1. Aarts, Eiffel T.	1.3
2. Hairston, BS Weert	1.3
3. Blue, Giants	1.1
4. Hilliman, Rotterdam	1.0
5. Hamm, BS Weert	0.9
6. Mullery, Landstede	0.9
7. McDermott, Magixx	0.9
8. Boxley, ZZ Leiden	0.8
9. Minter, BS Weert	0.8
10. Haryasz, GasTerra	0.8

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ISRAEL

Premier League Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Hapoel J-M - Maccabi Ashdod 90-66

The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Hapoel J-M outrebounded Maccabi Ashdod 32-20 including 25 on the defensive glass. International point guard Yuval Naimy (188-85) fired 15 points and 6 assists for the winners. American swingman Dion Dowell (200-85, college: Houston) chipped in 16 points and 7 rebounds. Hapoel J-M's coach Oded Katash felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international point guard Meir Tapiro (192-75, agency: Avi Zilberman) produced 9 points and 7 assists and American guard Oliver Lafayette (188-84, college: Houston) added 18 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Hapoel J-M: D.Dowell 16+7reb, Y.Naimy 15+3reb+6ast, W.Solomon 13+2reb, U.Kokia 10+2reb+1ast, J.Rich 9+2reb+2ast, B.Randle 8+8reb+4ast
Maccabi Ashdod: O.Lafayette 18+2reb, J.Duncan 10+6reb+1ast, M.Tapiro 9+4reb+7ast, N.Berkowitz 8+3reb+1ast, L.Gordon 7+1reb, J.Martin 4+2reb

Maccabi T-A - Elitzur Netanya 94-72

The hosts trailed by 11 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 22 points. Maccabi T-A shot 62.2 percent from the field. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The game was dominated by American players. Swingman Chuck Eidson (202-80, college: S.Carolina, agency: Court Side) fired 20 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists for the winners. point guard Jeremy Pargo (188-86, college: Gonzaga, agency: Priority Sports) chipped in a double-double by scoring 10 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists. Four Maccabi T-A players scored in double figures. Guard Adrian Banks (191-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) produced 28 points and forward Tony Washam (200-82, college: St.Vincent) added 6 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Maccabi T-A: C.Eidson 20+5reb+8ast, D.Blu 14+1reb+1ast, G.Pnini 10+1reb+1ast, J.Pargo 10+5reb+10ast, S.Schortsanitis 5+2reb+1ast, M.Macvan 4+1reb+2ast
Elitzur Netanya: A.Banks 28+1ast, E.Brown 6+2reb, T.Washam 6+7reb+3ast, S.Brener 4+6reb+6ast, J.Smith 2+3ast, D.Asante 0

Galil Gilboa - Hapoel Holon 77-59

The game without a history. Galil Gilboa led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Galil Gilboa outrebounded Hapoel Holon 35-22 including a 12-1 advantage in offensive rebounds. International point guard Gal Mekel (193-88, college: Wichita St.) fired 14 points and 7 assists for the winners. International guard Dagan Yavzuri (193-85) chipped in 19 points. Four Galil Gilboa players scored in double figures. American power forward Rich Melzer (203-79, college: Wisc.-RiverFal., agency: Court Side) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and the former international point guard Moran Roth (183-82) added 11 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Galil Gilboa: D.Yavzuri 19+3reb+1ast, G.Mekel 14+3reb+7ast, I.Kozikaro 11+6reb, W.Carter 10+11reb+1ast, M.Killingsworth 7+2reb+1ast, T.Biggs 7+3reb
Hapoel Holon: R.Melzer 22+10reb+1ast, M.Roth 11+3reb+4ast, A.Ben David 8+1reb+2ast, K.Powell 7+3reb+1ast, N.Cohen 7+3reb+2ast, I.Stolero 3+1ast

Bnei Hasharon - Maccabi Rishon 91-82

Maccabi Rishon trailed by 17 points at halftime and as many as 19 after three quarters before a 29-19 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 82-91 at the end of the game. Puerto Rican point guard Filiberto Rivera (190-82, college: UTEP) fired 20 points for the winners. American power forward Shawn James (208-83, college: Northeastern) chipped in 12 points and 7 rebounds. American swingman Dwayne Mitchell (196-82, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) produced 16 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals and the other American import power forward Aaron McGhee (203-79, college: Oklahoma) added 20 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) respectively for lost side. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Bnei Hasharon: F.Rivera 20+4reb+1ast, B.Rice 13+4reb+3ast, D.Grunfeld 12+2reb+3ast, S.James 12+7reb+2ast, E.Katz 3+4reb+2ast, M.Marztiano 0
Maccabi Rishon: A.McGhee 20+3reb+1ast, D.Mitchell 16+7reb+6ast, R.Morgan 15+5reb+1ast, I.Swann 12+2reb+4ast, T.McCullough 9+2reb+2ast, E.Shulman 4+1reb+1ast

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

ITALY

Montegranaro agree on terms of contract with P.J. Tucker - by Eurobasket News
Montegranaro continued to bolster their bench late in the season. Shortly after finalizing the deal with head coach Sharon Drucker (agency: Beo Basket ) the Italian team landed a strong addition to the squad. Montegranaro have agreed on terms of contract with P.J. Tucker (198-F-85, college: Texas). The 25-year-old forward started the season in Greece. He averaged 15.9 points, 8.0 boards and 1.7 assists per EuroCup game for Aris. In A1 League the forward posted 12.2 points, 7.4 boards and 2.0 assists per appearance. Last season P.J. Tucker started in Ukraine with BC Donetsk. Later he moved to Israel to join Bnei Hasharon where his stats read 17.3 points, 9.0 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.8 steals per game. P.J. Tucker was named into Eurobasket.com All-Israeli 1st Team in 2008 while playing for Hapoel Holon. He later made it into Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Superleague 2nd Team in 2009.

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

JORDAN

Al Riyadi Aramex takes 1-0 in the Final series - by Eurobasket News
Al Riyadi Aramex takes 1-0 in the Final series as they overcame ASU Applied Science 91:81. Al Riyadi began the game restricting their rivals to a mere 11 points, while themselves double as many, at the end of the first quarter and maintained the momentum to lead 42-32 at the end of the first half. Applied Science won the third period 29-20, but Al Riyadi Aramex won the game due to the final period.
In the first game for the third place Orthodox outscored Arena 78:68.

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KUWAIT

Nolan signs for Al Qadsia - by Ali Ahmed
Norman Nolan (202-F/C-76, college: Virginia) signs a deal with Al Qadsia to play till the end of the season.

Outlook:
A very powerful inside player, very physical. He performed a great NCAA career. Great rebounder and scorer in the paint.

Awards/Achievements:
Italian A2 All-Imports 1st Team -00
Italian A1 All-Star Game -01
Puerto Rican PRSBL All-Imports Team -01
Greek A1 All-Star Game -02
Asia-Basket.com All-Lebanese League Center of the Year -08
Asia-Basket.com All-Lebanese League 1st Team -08
Asia-Basket.com Lebanese League All-Imports Team -08
Lebanese League Finalist -08
Lebanese League Regular Season Runner-Up -08
Arab Club Championships Finalist -09
Iranian Superleague Semifinals -10

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

LITHUANIA

LKL Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Zalgiris and Lietuvos Rytas enter Finals - by Eurobasket News
Rudupis - Lietuvos Rytas 69-96

Lietuvos Rytas swept their semifinal series versus Rudupis. They claimed the second straight win to advance into Finals. The game without a history. Lietuvos Rytas led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Rudupis' 32. The best player for the winners was center Jonas Valanciunas (210-92) who scored 23 points and 8 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field). The former international swingman Arturas Jomantas (200-85, college: High School) chipped in 12 points. Five Lietuvos Rytas players scored in double figures. Forward Povilas Butkevicius (201-87) produced 17 points and swingman Gediminas Orelikas (197-90) added 9 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. 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:
Rudupis: P.Butkevicius 17+3reb+1ast, J.Sinica 11+1reb, G.Orelikas 9+5reb+2ast, A.Juskevicius 8+3reb+1ast, E.Zelionis 7+2reb+1ast, V.Lipkevicius 6+2reb
Lietuvos Rytas: J.Valanciunas 23+8reb, B.Newley 13+1reb+1ast, A.Jomantas 12+3reb+3ast, S.Babrauskas 10+3reb+1ast, K.Bajramovic 10+3reb+1ast, M.Gecevicius 8+1reb+3ast

Juventus - Zalgiris 65-90

Zalgiris clinched their LKL Finals birth. They upset Juventus on the road in Game 2. The game without a history. Zalgiris led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Zalgiris outrebounded Juventus 41-26 including a 25-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. Juventus was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. The former international forward Paulius Jankunas (205-84, agency: Interperformances) orchestrated the victory by scoring 12 points and 8 rebounds. American guard DeJuan Collins (188-76, college: Tuskegee) contributed with 13 points for the winners. Four Zalgiris players scored in double figures. Center Vaidas Cepukaitis (207-89, agency: Interperformances) replied with 13 points and 9 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and forward Arunas Vasiliauskas (201-85) added 12 points in the effort for Juventus. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Juventus: Z.Sestokas 13+1reb, V.Cepukaitis 13+9reb+1ast, A.Vasiliauskas 12+3reb+3ast, A.Adomaitis 6+4reb, A.Kieza 6+3reb+1ast, M.Pociukonis 5+1ast
Zalgiris: D.Collins 13+2reb+3ast, M.Kalnietis 13+3reb+1ast, P.Jankunas 12+8reb+3ast, M.Kuzminskas 11+3reb+1ast, M.Brown 10+1reb+2ast, O.Samhan 8+2reb+1ast

Stats Leaders - LKL

Points Per Game

Vilmantas DILYS
  Naglis-Adakris
  (208-F-87)
  Avg: 16.4

1. Dilys, Naglis-Adak.	16.4
2. Dimsa, Nevezis	16.0
3. Kieza, Juventus	15.4
4. Dilys, Perlas	14.9
5. Alijevas, Nevezis	14.9
6. Vasylius, Neptunas	14.8
7. Sirvydis, Sakalai	14.0
8. Ruikis, Neptunas	13.9
9. Juskevicius, Rudup.	13.7
10. Leonavicius, Tech.	13.6

Rebounds Per Game

Aurimas KIEZA
  Juventus
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Kieza, Juventus	9.6
2. Sarakauskas, Siaul.	9.2
3. Valanciunas, Lietu.	7.8
4. Klimavicius, Zalgi.	7.1
5. Dimsa, Nevezis	7.1
6. Jankunas, Zalgiris	6.7
7. Adomavicius, Alytu.	6.5
8. Vasylius, Neptunas	6.5
9. Dilys, Naglis-Adak.	6.4
10. Valukonis, Techa.	6.4

Assists Per Game

Rolandas ALIJEVAS
  Nevezis
  (192-G-85)
  Avg: 5.9

1. Alijevas, Nevezis	5.9
2. Broadus, Siauliai	5.2
3. Rinkevicius, Techa.	5.0
4. Juskevicius, Rudup.	4.5
5. El-Amin, Lietuvos.	4.4
6. Viskontas, Perlas	4.3
7. Lowe, Naglis-Adakr.	4.1
8. Janavicius, Siauli.	4.0
9. Collins, Zalgiris	4.0
10. Vasiliauskas, Ais.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Gintaras LEONAVICIUS
  Techa.
  (194-G-83)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Leonavicius, Techa.	2.1
2. Vasylius, Neptunas	2.1
3. Juskevicius, Rudup.	2.0
4. Lowe, Naglis-Adakr.	1.9
5. Rinkevicius, Techa.	1.9
6. Valukonis, Techas.	1.7
7. Razutis, Naglis-A.	1.7
8. Alijevas, Nevezis	1.7
9. Jasikevicius, Aisc.	1.6
10. Sinica, Rudupis	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Deng GAI
  Naglis-Adakris
  (206-F-82)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Gai, Naglis-Adakris	2.9
2. Begic, Zalgiris	2.4
3. Valanciunas, Lietu.	1.9
4. Silinskis, Techasas	1.6
5. Cresnar, Nevezis	1.5
6. Volkus, Techasas	1.1
7. Cepukaitis, Juven.	0.9
8. Gumenyuk, Siauliai	0.8
9. Jankauskas, Rudup.	0.8
10. Klimavicius, Zalg.	0.8

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

MONTENEGRO

Zvezdan Mitrovic announced list for Montenegro B NT - by Dragan Scepanovic
Senior B team selector Zvezdan Mitrovic announced expanding list of players who will do prepares for the tournament, 'Four Nations' in China, which is scheduled from 10 to 17 July.Senior B team selector Zvezdan Mitrovic announced expanding roster of 22 players who will do the preparation in Tivat, on the eve of the tournament, 'Four Nations' in China, which is scheduled from 10 to 17 July.

The list contains the following players:
1. Nenad Mijatovic (Lovcen, Cetinje MNE1A S-League )
2. Goran Martinic (Lovcen, Cetinje MNE1A S-League)
3. Nikola Pavlicevic (192-G-88) (Lovcen, Cetinje MNE1A S-League)
4. Milos Lopicic (216-C-90) (Lovcen, Cetinje MNE1A S-League)
5. Petar Stojanovic (185-G-90) (Lovcen, Cetinje MNE1A S-League)
6. Marko Mijovic (Ulcinj MNE1A S-League)
7. Milos Djurisic (Ulcinj MNE1A S-League)
8. Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) (Buducnost, Podgorica MNE1A S-League)
9. Filip Barovic (205-F-90) (Buducnost, Podgorica MNE1A S-League)
10. Nemanja Milosevic (Buducnost , Podgorica MNE1A S-League)
11. Nikola Djokovic (ABS Primorje, H.Novi MNE1A Play Out-League )
12. Goran Bulatovic (184-G-88) (Teodo Tivat, MNE1A S-League)
13. Marko Milatovic (194-G-88) (Danilovgrad , MNE1A Play Out-League)
14. Nemanja Vranjes (Borac, Banja Luka, BiH Premier League)
15. Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87) (Bosna, Sarajevo, BiH Premier League)
16. Goran Gajovic (199-G/F-88) (Bosna, Sarajevo, BiH Premier League)
17. Dragan Zekovic (OKK Beograd, SRB S-League)
18. Ljubo Jovanovic (206-C-87) (KAO Dramas, Greece)
19. Nikola Ivanovic (Kolosos, Greece)
20. Duan Stijepovic (Mens Sana Kampobaso, Italy)
21. Radoje Vujosevic (Mornar Bar MNE1A S-League)
22. Milorad Sutulovic (Igokea, BiH Premier League)

MNE1A S-League 8.Round : Derby in Tivat - by Dragan Scepanovic
The following weekend will be played on eight round of MNE1A S-League.In derby match in Tivat, in the battle for 4th place and place in MNE Play-Off will meet domestic Teodo from Tivat and Lovcen from Cetinje.Teodo have a score of 2 wins and 5 defeats and today match may decide the fourth participant MNE Play-Off member.In other two matches of 8.Rounds of MNE1A S-League will meet Mornar Bar - Jedinstvo B.Polje (today at 7pm in Bar) and on Saturday will play a Buducnost - Ulcinj

KK MORNAR Bar - KK JEDINSTVO B.Polje
Today , 29.04.2011. at 19:00h SRC TOPOLICA Bar
Reff: O.Jokic, R. Savovic, N. Popovic
Comm. V. Begovic

KK TEODO Tivat - KK LOVCEN Cetinje
Today , 29.04.2011. at 19:05h SRC ZUPA Tivat
Reff : I. Dragojevic, M. Koljensic, M. Kaludjerovic
Comm. M. Lakicevic

KK BUDUCNOST Podgorica - KK ULCINJ
30.04.2011. at 19:00h SRC MORACA Podgorica
Reff : R. Vojinovic, V. Sundic, Dj. Kicovic
Comm. R. Bojanic

EC 2011 : Premier match play against Macedonia - by Dragan Scepanovic
European Basketball Federation (FIBA Europe) set the terms matches at the European Championships in Lithuania, which is scheduled from 31 August to 18 September. Montenegro their matches in group C in Alytus will play in three terms.
A premier league match at Old Continent, the red will play 31st August selection against Macedonia in 15 hours and 30 minutes, in same time, a day later will play against Bosnia and Herzegovina, next match will play on 03.September, when the opponent will be the selection of Croatia. NT of Montenegro on 04.September play game against Greece , and match the last round of preliminary phase, 05.September, against the selection of additional qualifying begins at 14 and 30 in our time.

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

NBA

Lakers eliminate Hornets, win Game Six 98-80 - by Eurobasket News
Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) used his massive frame to own the lane, Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) made timely shots that silenced a hostile crowd, and the Los Angeles Lakers started to look a lot more like a team trying to win a third straight NBA title.

Bryant scored 22 of his 24 points in the first three quarters, then let his teammates take over in a dominant 98-80 victory over the New Orleans Hornets on Thursday night that wrapped up a first-round playoff series triumph for Los Angeles in six games.

The performance left coach Phil Jackson saying his current squad has the 'potential to be as good as any team I've coached with the Lakers.'

He might have sounded silly saying that after Game 4, when Chris Paul's (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) triple-double helped the Hornets tie the series at two, but it's not like championship Lakers teams have never started slow before.

They split their first four playoff games with Oklahoma City last season before winning that series 4-2 and moving on to eventually win the franchise's 16th NBA title. This time, they turned in convincing double-digit victories in the last two games, winning by 16 on Tuesday night and leading by as much as 21 in the fourth quarter of the series clincher.

'We're good at making adjustments and learning,' Bryant said. 'So the more a series goes on, the more we learn. That comes from our coaching staff. That comes from us and the amount of experience we have, being able to pick teams apart the later we go in a series.'

The Lakers move on to the second round, facing the Dallas Mavericks, who eliminated Portland in six games. Game 1 will be Monday at Staples Center.

The 7-foot, 285-pound Bynum had 18 points and 12 rebounds, drawing groans from the New Orleans crowd with each of his eight offensive rebounds. His ability to clean up teammates' misses and extend possessions helped Los Angeles gain a lopsided 21-4 advantage in second-chance points.

'Every time he got an offensive rebound, it was deflating,' Hornets coach Monty Williams said. 'You don't really realize how good he is until you face him in a series. Kobe's Kobe, but I thought Bynum decided the series. He was that good.'

Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) chipped in 16 points and Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) 14 for the Lakers, whose overpowering fourth quarter provided an anticlimactic ending to what had initially been a more exciting series than many expected particularly with the Hornets having lost leading scorer David West (6'8''-F-80, college: Xavier) to a season-ending injury in late March.

Paul, who helped the Hornets split the first four games with two sensational performances, wasn't able to deliver a third victory. He had only seven points before hitting a 3-pointer with 4:02 to go and finished with 10 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds.

'Once we started missing shots, the lane became filled with Laker jerseys, and to ask Chris to bail us out of a game like that is unfair,' Williams said. 'They're the champs and they know how to put the pedal to the medal and they did.'

As they did in Game 5, the Lakers again controlled the paint, outrebounding New Orleans 43-30, including 14 offensive rebounds.

'We just lost to a really, really good team. It's obvious why they're the two-time defending champs,' Paul said. 'They did a really good job of closing the lane down. ... I still tried to find my spots, but the lane was packed.'

The Lakers led by double digits throughout the fourth quarter, and Williams finally conceded the game with about a minute to go when he removed the starters, who received an appreciative standing ovation from the sellout crowd in the New Orleans Arena.

Carl Landry had 19 points for the Hornets, who have not won a playoff series since the first round in 2008, but who did better than expected this season after Williams took his first head coaching job last summer with a team that had missed the playoffs last season. Trevor Ariza scored 12 points for New Orleans and Marco Belinelli 11.

After falling behind by as many as 12 points in the middle of the third quarter, New Orleans was as close as 54-48 when Jason Smith hit a jumper. But Bryant and Gasol each hit a pair of free throws to get Los Angeles' lead back to 10, and each time the Hornets tried to claw back after that, the Lakers had an answer.

When Willie Green hit a 3 to make it 60-53, Bryant came right back with a 3 of his own and put his finger to his lips as the crowd quieted again.

Then late in the quarter, Paul lost the ball under his own basket when he bumped into Ron Artest and tumbled over the baseline, hoping to draw a foul. Instead, Artest put in an easy layup and flexed both biceps while the crowd booed the officials in frustration.

The boos continued when Smith fouled Bryant hard on a drive and was called for a flagrant foul. After conspicuously applauding the call, to the annoyance of Hornets fans, Bryant made both free throws, giving the Lakers a 69-57 lead heading into the final quarter.

The Hornets needed a strong start to the fourth quarter and it appeared they might make one more run when Paul promptly found Smith for an open jumper to make it 69-59. Yet the Lakers again denied the Hornets any momentum as Odom responded with a 3 and Bynum scored inside on a possession kept alive by an offensive rebound. That ignited a 9-0 run that made it 78-59 with 8:28 left.

The game was never in doubt after that.

'The size and depth of our team wore them down in the end,' Jackson said. 'It took us a little time to figure out this team.'

Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

Tony Parker intends to play for France this summer - by Eurobasket News
Spurs guard Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) told a French television sports show that he plans to play for Frances team in this summers EuroBasket tournament in Lithuania.

Sporting News.com reported that a post on FIBA.com indicated Parker would be playing in the tournament. FIBA is the international governing body of basketball.

I will be at EuroBasket this summer, Parker said during an interview with a weekly sports television show in France. Im eager to get started. We have a really good team.

Parker told the television show that he was piqued to play for the French team because Chicago center Joakim Noah (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Florida) also is planning to play.

Courtesy of http://basketball.realgm.com

Pacers' coach Vogel wants interim tag removed - by Eurobasket News
Displaying the positive attitude that energized the Indiana players and fans, interim coach Frank Vogel explained why he believes he should be the next head coach.

Vogel took over for Jim O'Brien at midseason, went 20-18 and led the team to its first playoff berth since 2006. The Pacers were competitive in losing their first-round series to the Chicago Bulls.

'One thing I learned the last three months is that I can do this,' he said. 'I'm confident in my leadership abilities, my management abilities, my coaching abilities. It's been an honor to coach the last few months, it would be an honor to coach in the future.'

Team president Larry Bird was impressed with Vogel's performance. He said the 37-year-old would get the first interview for the head coaching position.

'I think Frank did an excellent job, stepping in without the experience of a head coaching job,' Bird said. 'The way he conducted himself, he brought positive energy to this team. We won more games than we lost. We did it with a young team, a team that's trying to grow.'

The mood around the team quickly changed when Vogel stepped in. Early in his tenure, he claimed that Eastern Conference powers Boston, Miami and Orlando wouldn't want to play the Pacers when _ not if _ they make the playoffs. He said the talent to win big already existed on the roster, and he told leery Pacers fans to hop on the bandwagon.

That confidence earned the respect of the players. Guard Dahntay Jones hopes Vogel returns.

'It would be a breath of fresh air to know we have some stability and some consistency,' Jones said. 'Frank's done an excellent job in the interim. When he's coaching us, the focus is on the positive, helping us get better, helping us find a niche. He's done a great job with us.'

Forward Tyler Hansbrough's minutes increased dramatically under Vogel.

'Frank's done a good job,' Hansbrough said. 'I don't know what they're going to do. I'm not a part of that process. But he's done a good job.'

Vogel accomplished what he said he would, yet he felt he could have done more.

'I was hopeful it would work better, to be honest with you,' he said. 'I thought we could have made a serious run this year. This group has a high ceiling. A high ceiling for what they can achieve in the future.'

Vogel said he understands that the decision on his future could take some time. It's uncertain if Bird will return as team president because he's in the final year of his contract. Either way, Vogel said he'll be patient.

'It's really up to Larry and the front office,' he said. 'Anytime you're making a decision as important as this, you never want to rush into it. Whatever timetable they decide is fine with me.'

Vogel introduced 'smashmouth' basketball, an approach that focused on driving to the basket to put pressure on defenses rather than on shooting a lot of 3-pointers. He moved Hansbrough, a second-year player, and Paul George, a rookie, into the starting lineup and restored third-year center Roy Hibbert's confidence.

'I believed in the young guys we have on the team, and that if we went with them, the way we utilized them and the way we changed our style of play, that it would work,' Vogel said. 'I think it did work.'

Vogel said the day he was hired that he would tighten the playing rotation.

'Earlier in the season, guys didn't know it they were dressing or if they were sitting out or if they were going to play,' Bird said. 'Under Frank, we sort of knew the three guys who weren't going to dress. They knew their roles. There's a lot more communication. I think the last 25, 30 games, Frank did a good job of letting the players know where they stood.'

Once roles became clear, the locker-room environment improved.

'We came together as a team,' Vogel said. 'That doesn't always happen, where guys really pull for each other and genuinely care for each other, fight for each other, work for each other and really just come together as a team in the true sense of the word. That's what I'm most proud of with this team.'

The Pacers won seven of their first 10 under Vogel, then hit a stretch in which they dropped 8 of 9. Indiana rallied to win 10 of its next 15 and clinch a postseason berth.

'My message at that point was that competition has a way of raising the level of your play, and it worked out that way,' Vogel said.

Bird likes the way the Pacers finished the season.

'At the end of the season, he got them back,' he said. 'We probably performed as well in the playoffs than at any part of the season. That's a good sign.'

Courtesy of www.journalreview.com

Hornets coach Monty Williams wanted Lakers G Shannon Brown suspended - by Eurobasket News
Hornets coach Monty Williams thinks the NBA shouldve suspended Lakers guard Shannon Brown (6'3''-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) for Game 6 of their series Thursday night.

Brown swung his elbow at Hornets guard Willie Green in Game 5, and although there was no contact, referee Derrick Stafford spotted it from crosscourt and whistled a foul on Brown.

'Shannon should've been ejected, and if he's not going to be ejected, he shouldn't be able to play tonight', Williams said Thursday, according to the teams website. 'When you throw your elbow like that at a guy - I know the rule is you have to connect - but if he connects, (the result is) a fight. It could turn into more stuff.'

Williams also accused Brown of throwing another elbow at New Orleans Jarrett Jack at another time in the game and has been in contact with the NBA in search of discipline for Brown, whose value is increased currently because of Kobe Bryants sprained left ankle.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Kirk Hinrich will have MRI on right hamstring injury - by Eurobasket News
The news wasn't all good for the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday night. Even though Atlanta is headed to the second round after beating the Orlando Magic 84-81 in Game 6 of of their opening round series, they may be without their starting point guard when they tip off against the Chicago Bulls next week.

Former Bull Kirk Hinrich (6'3''-G-81, college: Kansas) strained his right hamstring as he slashed to the bucket for a layup with 3:07 left in the Game 6 win. He ran down the court on the ensuing possession with a noticeable limp and was removed from the game 11 seconds later.

The Hawks announced that Hinrich will have an MRI on the injured hamstring on Friday.

Hinrich averaged 10.2 points per game.

Courtesy of http://atlanta.sbnation.com

Chandler may come back to Knicks - by Eurobasket News
The Knicks would have to get lucky, but one of their targets this summer is to bring Wilson Chandler (6'8''-F-87, college: De Paul) back into the fold, The Post has learned.

Chandler, who was dispatched to Denver in the Carmelo Anthony trade, will be a restricted free agent, and a source said he would love to return to the Knicks. And the Knicks would love to have him back, as coach Mike D'Antoni believes he's the perfect versatile fit for his system who does so many things, including rebound. Chandler's Nuggets trail Oklahoma City 3-1 in the first round.

Chandler's new agent is Happy Walters, who also represents Amar'e Stoudemire and Knicks surprise reserve standout Shawne Williams, also a free agent whom the Knicks would like to bring back.

The question is how to get Chandler back. A sign-and-trade with Denver is possible, since the Nuggets once liked rookie Landry Fields, who had a terrible playoffs. Fields did not feel comfortable playing with Anthony, but he thrived with the Nuggets' Danilo Gallinari, Raymond Felton and Timofey Mozgov.

The Knicks also could go under the salary cap if they decide to buy out Chauncey Billups by Friday. If they bring Billups back, the Knicks could also sign Chandler to the mid-level exception on a long-term deal, if Chandler is willing to take less money to play in New York. The sense is he's not thrilled with the Rocky Mountains and was despondent in his final weeks as a Knick with rumors he was bound for Denver.

The Knicks also have a decision to make with Billy Walker, who has a team option of $916,000. They likely will let Shelden Williams, Jared Jeffries and Roger Mason walk.

Point guard Anthony Carter is a free agent and intrigued the coaching staff. They could buy out Renaldo Balkman's final two years. The oft-injured Ronny Turiaf has a player option of $4.3 million that he's likely to exercise, but the Knicks also could buy him out. Rookie point guard Andy Rautins also may be released to open a roster spot.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com

Celtics hoping for full Shaq practice on Friday - by Eurobasket News
The Boston Celtics hope to have Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) back at practice on Friday.

Celtics coach Doc Rivers said ONeal would do a skeleton workout on Thursday and hopefully join the team on Friday for its final workout before Sundays Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Miami Heat.

ONeal has played a total of 5 minutes, 29 seconds since Feb. 1 because of problems with his right calf and Achilles tendon.

The Celtics didnt need him in the first round, when they swept the New York Knicks in four games.

Courtesy of Yahoo

Ex-Rocket Mario Elie interviews for head coach job - by Eurobasket News
Though in many ways Mario Elie (6'5''-G-63, college: Amer.Internat.) never left Houston, he met with the Rockets front office on Wednesday determined to come home.

Elie, who has kept his home in Houston since his days with the franchises Clutch City-era teams, interviewed for the Rockets vacant head coaching position on Wednesday, saying he is ready to recapture the successes from his playing days here.

Im very excited, Elie said. I like their commitment to winning and bringing back the success of the championship years.

We knocked it around for quite a bit, about three to four hours. Those guys are very sharp. They know what they want. I had a good time with these gentlemen.

Elie, who played five seasons with the Rockets before finishing his career in San Antonio and Phoenix, has been an assistant with the Spurs, Warriors and Kings.

While Elie hopes to return to the Rockets, Rockets assistant coach Jack Sikma interviewed for the position hoping to stay.

I feel good about it, said Sikma, an assistant on Rick Adelmans staff the past four seasons. Im in more of a unique situation. I approach it as an opportunity to interview for a head coaching position. I thought it was a good exchange.

Elie also has been a candidate with Charlotte and Golden State. He said much of his session with general manager Daryl Morey, vice president for player personnel Gersson Rosas and vice president for basketball operations Sam Hinkie was to get to know one another and for him to explain his basketball philosophies.

Former Hawks coach Mike Woodson is scheduled to interview today.

These guys know what they want, Elie said. Theyre going to take their time. A lot of guys will be coming through.

They want a guy who knows the game, emphasize a little defense and developing players. They are knowledgeable about the game. Its a great job, a great city and a very good team. I feel very privileged and humbled to be interviewed.

Courtesy of www.chron.com

Memphis Grizzlies Move On for the First Time - by Daniel Gibson
MEMPHIS---The Memphis Grizzlies came into its first round match up against the battled tested San Antonio Spurs with a 0-12 record all-time in the Playoffs.

0-12.

The three previous times the Grizzlies made the playoffs they were swept out in the first round.

In 2004, the first year they reached the postseason, they were swept by the Spurs.

Still the team was confident that they could win this series.

One of their top players, Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut), has an injured shoulder and has been out for months but that didn't matter.

They came in as the eighth seed going up against the top seeded team, but that didn't matter to them.

And oh yeah, only three eighth seeded teams have managed to defeat its number one ranked opponent.

The Denver Nuggets knocked off the Seattle Super Sonics, 3-2 in 1994. The image of Dikembe Mutombo (7'2''-C-66, college: Georgetown) falling to floor squeezing the basketball and crying has become a classic moment in NBA history.

The New York Knicks stunned the Miami Heat in 1999, 3-2, after Allan Houston hit a runner in the lane that around before going in at the buzzer. That Knicks team was the only eighth seed to make it to the NBA Finals.

The last team to get it done was the Golden State Warriors who physically dominated the Dallas Mavericks and won, 4-2. Before tonight, this upset was the only time in NBA history that an eighth seeded team beat a number one seed in a seven game series.

Even with the history leaning in favor of the Spurs the Grizzlies don't care.

They felt like they had the size and style of play to get passed the Spurs and the way they have played has backed up those expectations.

Many fans and experts are shocked but not the Grizzlies.

'They're the better team. They won 61 games, and we won 46 games,' Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins said. 'Their record all year long said they were the better team. As I've always said, it doesn't matter who is this better team during the regular season. When you get to the playoffs, each series you have to be the better team.'

Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) and Marc Gasol (7'0''-C-85, agency: Interperformances) used their toughness and size to dominate the Spurs down low. Tony Allen (6'4''-G-82, college: Oklahoma St.), Mike Conley (6'1''-G-87, college: Ohio St.), Greivis Vasquez (6'6''-G-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Maryland), Darrell Arthur (6'9''-F-88, college: Kansas), and O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87, college: USC) all came off the bench to make big time contributions to the team as well.

The Grizzles haven't had many games televised nationally but these young players are for real.

'Were a good team, we work hard, we have young players that love to play, and we are a team to be reckoned with,' said Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.).

Shane Battier (6'8''-F-78, college: Duke), who was re-acquired from the Houston Rockets at the trade deadline, has played in every single playoff game in the Grizzlies franchise history.

It feels much better to be on the winning end for a change.

East and West Quarterfinals over, Semis start on Sunday - by Eurobasket News

East

Atlanta H. - Orlando M. 84-81
Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) gave the Hawks a more expected offensive spark. His biggest play, though, was getting a hand on a missed shot. Johnson scored 23 points and came up with a huge offensive rebound, leading Atlanta to an 84-81 victory in Game 6 on Thursday night, knocking the Orlando Magic out of the playoffs. The Hawks, who won the series 4-2, advanced to the second round for the third straight year, this time against top-seeded Chicago. Orlando, which routed Atlanta a year ago in the most lopsided four-game sweep in NBA history, heads into an uncertain offseason after its earliest playoff ouster since 2007. With Atlanta clinging to a one-point lead and the clock running down, Marvin Williams missed a clinching 3-pointer. But Johnson swatted the rebound to Jamal Crawford, who was fouled and made both free throws with 8.2 seconds left. 'I just wanted to make a play,' said Johnson, who bounced back from a dismal 5-point effort in Game 5. 'The play was a pick-and-roll for Al (Horford) and Jamal, but we didn't come up with what we wanted. I just crashed the glass and tried to somehow get a hand on it. I did.' The Magic had two chances to force overtime. J.J. Redick missed an open 3, then Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) had a desperation shot from the corner blocked by Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85). Redick came off a screen for a clear view of the basket, a play that couldn't have been drawn up any better. The shot rimmed out, though it went out of bounds off an Atlanta player to provide the Magic with one more shot. After his team called another timeout, Redick walked to the bench with his hands on his head. That would be their last chance to extend the series. Orlando inbounded from the baseline to Richardson, but he didn't have much room to work in the corner. Smith extended a hand to finish off the Magic. Hedo Turkoglu kicked the ball off the scoreboard hanging above the court in frustration as streamers fell from the ceiling, the sellout crowd celebrating the series winner. The Magic was beaten off the glass 38-31, giving up 14 boards at the offensive end. 'The biggest thing was the rebounding,' Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said. 'It's sort of fitting we couldn't get a rebound on the last stop.' Next up for Atlanta: the Bulls. Game 1 is Monday night in Chicago. *Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

West

Memphis G. - San Antonio S. 99-91
The Memphis Grizzlies advanced to round two of the National Basketball Association playoffs in six games after beating the top-seeded San Antonio Spurs 99-91. San Antonio, which had the NBA's best record during the regular season, became the second No. 1 seed after the 2006-07 Dallas Mavericks to lose a best-of-seven playoff series to an eighth-ranked team. The Grizzlies begin their Western Conference semifinal tomorrow by traveling to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who beat the Denver Nuggets four games to one. At FedEx Forum in Memphis, Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) had 31 points and 11 rebounds last night for the Grizzlies. Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) led the Spurs with 23 points. In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics travel to Miami tomorrow to open their semifinal series against the Heat. *Courtesy of www.bloomberg.com

N.Orleans H. - LA Lakers 80-98
Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services) used his massive frame to own the lane, Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) made timely shots that silenced a hostile crowd, and the Los Angeles Lakers started to look a lot more like a team trying to win a third straight NBA title. Bryant scored 22 of his 24 points in the first three quarters, then let his teammates take over in a dominant 98-80 victory over the New Orleans Hornets on Thursday night that wrapped up a first-round playoff series triumph for Los Angeles in six games. The performance left coach Phil Jackson saying his current squad has the 'potential to be as good as any team I've coached with the Lakers.' He might have sounded silly saying that after Game 4, when Chris Paul's triple-double helped the Hornets tie the series at two, but it's not like championship Lakers teams have never started slow before. They split their first four playoff games with Oklahoma City last season before winning that series 4-2 and moving on to eventually win the franchise's 16th NBA title. This time, they turned in convincing double-digit victories in the last two games, winning by 16 on Tuesday night and leading by as much as 21 in the fourth quarter of the series clincher. 'We're good at making adjustments and learning,' Bryant said. 'So the more a series goes on, the more we learn. That comes from our coaching staff. That comes from us and the amount of experience we have, being able to pick teams apart the later we go in a series.' The Lakers move on to the second round, facing the Dallas Mavericks, who eliminated Portland in six games. Game 1 will be Monday at Staples Center. The 7-foot, 285-pound Bynum had 18 points and 12 rebounds, drawing groans from the New Orleans crowd with each of his eight offensive rebounds. His ability to clean up teammates' misses and extend possessions helped Los Angeles gain a lopsided 21-4 advantage in second-chance points. 'Every time he got an offensive rebound, it was deflating,' Hornets coach Monty Williams said. 'You don't really realize how good he is until you face him in a series. Kobe's Kobe, but I thought Bynum decided the series. He was that good.' Pau Gasol chipped in 16 points and Lamar Odom 14 for the Lakers, whose overpowering fourth quarter provided an anticlimactic ending to what had initially been a more exciting series than many expected - particularly with the Hornets having lost leading scorer David West to a season-ending injury in late March. Paul, who helped the Hornets split the first four games with two sensational performances, wasn't able to deliver a third victory. He had only seven points before hitting a 3-pointer with 4:02 to go and finished with 10 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds. 'Once we started missing shots, the lane became filled with Laker jerseys, and to ask Chris to bail us out of a game like that is unfair,' Williams said. 'They're the champs and they know how to put the pedal to the medal - and they did.' As they did in Game 5, the Lakers again controlled the paint, outrebounding New Orleans 43-30, including 14 offensive rebounds. 'We just lost to a really, really good team. It's obvious why they're the two-time defending champs,' Paul said. 'They did a really good job of closing the lane down. ... I still tried to find my spots, but the lane was packed.' The Lakers led by double digits throughout the fourth quarter, and Williams finally conceded the game with about a minute to go when he removed the starters, who received an appreciative standing ovation from the sellout crowd in the New Orleans Arena. Carl Landry had 19 points for the Hornets, who have not won a playoff series since the first round in 2008, but who did better than expected this season after Williams took his first head coaching job last summer with a team that had missed the playoffs last season. Trevor Ariza scored 12 points for New Orleans and Marco Belinelli 11. *Courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

Portland TB - Dallas M. 96-103
Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) had 33 points and 11 rebounds, and the Dallas Mavericks withstood a furious Portland comeback to beat the Trail Blazers 103-96 Thursday night and take the first-round playoff series in six games. The Mavericks advanced to face the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers, who beat New Orleans 98-80 Thursday night to take that first-round series. Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) finished with 22 points as the Mavericks snapped the home-court advantage that each team had held during the playoffs and the regular season. The Blazers led by as many as 12 points early after Gerald Wallace went on a tear with 13 first-quarter points. But Wallace left the game for much of the second quarter with a sore back and Portland surrendered the lead. Wallace would return to finish with 32 points and 12 rebounds. LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-C-85, college: Texas) added 24 points and 10 rebounds. Wallace's fast-break dunk narrowed it to 86-85 with 5:24 to go, but Jason Kidd answered with a 3-pointer and Terry added a step-back jumper to keep the Mavericks out front 91-85 with 4:04 left. After Wallace made a pair of free throws, Aldridge missed two for Portland and Shawn Marion's hook made it 93-87 for Dallas. Terry added a jumper to put the Mavs ahead 95-89 with 1:42 to go and time ran out on Portland's comeback. The Mavericks, known recently for wilting in the playoffs, had been eliminated in the first round in three of the last four seasons. One of the reasons is that they've had trouble on the road. Since the start of the 2006 NBA finals -- which the Mavs lost in six games to Miami after taking a 2-0 series lead -- Dallas had gone just 2-18 on the road in the postseason. *Courtesy of www.kptv.com

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.Ci.
  (206-G/F-88)
  Avg: 28

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	28.0
2. James, Miami Heat	26.6
3. Wade, Miami Heat	25.3
4. Anthony, Denver N.	25.2
5. Rose, Chicago B.	25.2
6. Bryant, LA Lakers	25.1
7. Stoudemire, New Y.	24.7
8. Ellis, Golde S.	24.1
9. Martin, Houston R.	23.5
10. Nowitzki, Dallas	23.4

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. Griffin, LA Clipp.	12.1
4. Randolph, Memph.	12.0
5. Bogut, Milwauke.	11.1
6. Humphries, New J.	10.4
7. Noah, Chicago B.	10.4
8. Camby, Portland TB	10.2
9. Gasol, LA Lakers	10.0
10. Lee, Golde S.	9.8

Assists Per Game

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

1. Nash, Phoenix Suns	11.4
2. Rondo, Boston C.	11.2
3. Paul, N.Orleans H.	9.9
4. Williams, Utah Jazz	9.7
5. Felton, New Y.	9.0
6. Calderon, Toron.	8.9
7. Wall, Washington W.	8.3
8. Kidd, Dallas M.	8.1
9. Westbrook, Oklah..	8.1
10. Harris, New J.	7.6

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Bogut, Milwauke.	2.6
2. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.6
3. McGee, Washingt.	2.4
4. Howard, Orlando M.	2.3
5. Duncan, San A.	2.0
6. Bynum, LA Lakers	2.0
7. Milicic, Minnesota	2.0
8. Stoudemire, New Y.	1.9
9. Jefferson, Utah J.	1.9
10. Jordan, LA Clippe.	1.8

Mavs eliminate Blazers with 103-96 victory - by Eurobasket News
Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) had 33 points and 11 rebounds, and the Dallas Mavericks withstood a furious Portland comeback to beat the Trail Blazers 103-96 Thursday night and take the first-round playoff series in six games.

The Mavericks advanced to face the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers, who beat New Orleans 98-80 Thursday night to take that first-round series.

Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) finished with 22 points as the Mavericks snapped the home-court advantage that each team had held during the playoffs and the regular season.

The Blazers led by as many as 12 points early after Gerald Wallace went on a tear with 13 first-quarter points. But Wallace left the game for much of the second quarter with a sore back and Portland surrendered the lead.

Wallace would return to finish with 32 points and 12 rebounds. LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-C-85, college: Texas) added 24 points and 10 rebounds.

Wallace's fast-break dunk narrowed it to 86-85 with 5:24 to go, but Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California) answered with a 3-pointer and Terry added a step-back jumper to keep the Mavericks out front 91-85 with 4:04 left.

After Wallace made a pair of free throws, Aldridge missed two for Portland and Shawn Marion's hook made it 93-87 for Dallas.

Terry added a jumper to put the Mavs ahead 95-89 with 1:42 to go and time ran out on Portland's comeback.

The Mavericks, known recently for wilting in the playoffs, had been eliminated in the first round in three of the last four seasons.

One of the reasons is that they've had trouble on the road. Since the start of the 2006 NBA finals -- which the Mavs lost in six games to Miami after taking a 2-0 series lead -- Dallas had gone just 2-18 on the road in the postseason.

But the Mavericks avoided another road loss Thursday night, even though at first it looked bleak.

Led by Wallace, the Blazers jumped out to 19-7 lead, capping the quarter with a dunk from rookie Chris Johnson to make it 27-19.

But the Blazers went cold when Wallace headed to the locker room with lower back tightness, and the Mavericks went on a 16-4 run to tie it at 35 after J.J. Barea's layup.

Dallas extended the lead to 47-41 on Nowitzki's dunk with 1:10 left, and the Mavs closed the half ahead 52-43 after Terry's 3-pointer.

Nowitzki finished the first half with 19 points.

Marion's dunk made it 56-45 for Dallas early in the second half and the Rose Garden crowd was uncharacteristically silenced.

Wallace, who returned in the second half, narrowed it to 59-51 with a jumper midway through the third quarter. But the Blazers couldn't get any closer and Terry's pull-up jumper put Dallas ahead 56-73.

Portland pulled within 77-71 early in the final quarter on Rudy Fernandez's 3-pointer and a pair of free throws from Aldridge.

Third-seeded Dallas took control of the series with a 93-82 victory at American Airlines Center on Monday night in Game 5.

Sixth-seeded Portland had evened the series at two games apiece when Brandon Roy (6'6''-G-84, college: Washington) led his team on a stunning comeback for an 84-82 Game 4 victory on Saturday. The three-time All-Star who had been troubled by his knees all season and was playing off the bench, finished with 24 points, with 18 of those coming in the fourth quarter to lift the Blazers from a 23-point deficit.

Portland has never been able to win a playoff series after falling behind 3-2. They've been bounced from the first round for three straight seasons.

Courtesy of www.kptv.com

Johnson leads Hawks past Magic, into 2nd round - by Eurobasket News
Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) gave the Hawks a more expected offensive spark. His biggest play, though, was getting a hand on a missed shot.

Johnson scored 23 points and came up with a huge offensive rebound, leading Atlanta to an 84-81 victory in Game 6 on Thursday night, knocking the Orlando Magic out of the playoffs.

The Hawks, who won the series 4-2, advanced to the second round for the third straight year, this time against top-seeded Chicago.

Orlando, which routed Atlanta a year ago in the most lopsided four-game sweep in NBA history, heads into an uncertain offseason after its earliest playoff ouster since 2007.

With Atlanta clinging to a one-point lead and the clock running down, Marvin Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: N.Carolina) missed a clinching 3-pointer. But Johnson swatted the rebound to Jamal Crawford (6'5''-G-80, college: Michigan), who was fouled and made both free throws with 8.2 seconds left.

'I just wanted to make a play,' said Johnson, who bounced back from a dismal 5-point effort in Game 5. 'The play was a pick-and-roll for Al (Horford) and Jamal, but we didn't come up with what we wanted. I just crashed the glass and tried to somehow get a hand on it. I did.'

The Magic had two chances to force overtime. J.J. Redick (6'4''-G-84, college: Duke) missed an open 3, then Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) had a desperation shot from the corner blocked by Josh Smith.

Redick came off a screen for a clear view of the basket, a play that couldn't have been drawn up any better. The shot rimmed out, though it went out of bounds off an Atlanta player to provide the Magic with one more shot. After his team called another timeout, Redick walked to the bench with his hands on his head.

That would be their last chance to extend the series. Orlando inbounded from the baseline to Richardson, but he didn't have much room to work in the corner. Smith extended a hand to finish off the Magic.

Hedo Turkoglu (6'9''-F-79) kicked the ball off the scoreboard hanging above the court in frustration as streamers fell from the ceiling, the sellout crowd celebrating the series winner.

The Magic was beaten off the glass 38-31, giving up 14 boards at the offensive end.

'The biggest thing was the rebounding,' Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said. 'It's sort of fitting we couldn't get a rebound on the last stop.'

Next up for Atlanta: the Bulls. Game 1 is Monday night in Chicago.

But the Hawks will take a little time to celebrate this win, which is especially sweet after the way they played in last year's second-round blowout.

'When you lose to a team by an average of 25 points a game, you're looking for redemption,' Crawford said. 'We were up to the challenge.'

After not having much of an impact in Orlando's 25-point win in Game 5, Dwight Howard led the Magic with 25 points and 15 rebounds. But, falling into a familiar pattern from the first four games, the big center didn't get much help from his teammates.

Crawford scored 19 points, including consecutive 3s that gave Atlanta its biggest lead, 71-59, with just over 9 minutes left. The Magic fought back with an 8-0 spurt, and Ryan Anderson had a chance to give the Magic their first lead since the opening minutes with an open look from outside the stripe.

He missed, and the Magic never caught up with Atlanta after playing from behind nearly the entire game. Williams gave Atlanta's struggling offense a boost with 10 points, hitting a couple of big 3s.

Kirk Hinrich (6'3''-G-81, college: Kansas) scored on a drive with just over 3 minutes to go, somehow getting the shot over Howard. But the Atlanta guard went up so high, he came down awkwardly on his right knee. He struggled back down the court, but collapsed after Gilbert Arenas was clobbered on a drive to the basket.

Hinrich was carried to the locker room, his arms draped around two Atlanta trainers so he didn't put any pressure on his leg. The Hawks said he had a strained hamstring and would undergo an MRI on Friday to determine to extent of the injury.

The Hawks were up 42-36 at halftime, but the lead should have been a lot bigger. Josh Smith was 3 of 12 shooting with three turnovers. Crawford hit only 3 of 11, Johnson just 4 of 12.

But Atlanta turned up its defensive pressure at the arc, holding the Magic to just 5 of 19 from long range.

Things got rough in the third quarter, the desperation apparent for both teams. Orlando was trying to keep its season going. The Hawks had no desire to return to Florida for a decisive Game 7.

Turkoglu was whistled for a flagrant foul when he wrapped up Zaza Pachulia before he could get off a shot under the hoop. On the ensuing possession, Howard had the ball in close and was hacked by Pachulia, who received a flagrant violation as well.

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

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

NCAA1

Former Pack coach given raise, extension at Georgia - by Eurobasket News
Georgia coach Mark Fox has received a $400,000 raise and a one-year extension after taking the Bulldogs to the NCAA tournament this season.

Georgia's athletic board announced on Thursday that Fox will receive a raise from $1.3 million to $1.7 million and his contract has been extended through the 2016 season.

Georgia finished 21-12 under Fox this season and received its first NCAA tournament bid since 2008. Washington beat Georgia, 68-65, in the first round of the tournament.

Georgia athletic director Greg McGarity says Fox and his staff 'have been exceptional in energizing our men's basketball program.'

Fox led Nevada to a 123-43 overall record in five seasons as head coach. He also led the Pack to the NCAA Tournament three times, which included two trips to the second round.

Courtesy of www.kolotv.com

NCAA sets earlier date to withdraw from NBA draft - by Eurobasket News
The NCAA's Board of Directors has adopted a new withdrawal date from the NBA draft and will toughen academic standards for football players beginning this fall.

College basketball players must now announce whether they will pull out of the NBA draft before the first date of the spring signing period. That is traditionally mid-April. Currently, players can return to school without forfeiting a scholarship if they pull out by May 8.

Beginning this fall, Division I football players will be required to earn nine credit hours in the fall semester or eight in the fall quarter. Players who fail to meet the requirement could be suspended for up to four games the following season.

Courtesy of The Associated Press

Louisville hires Kevin Keatts as assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
Louisville coach Rick Pitino has hired longtime Hargrave Military Academy coach Kevin Keatts as an assistant with the Cardinals.

Keatts went 262-17 in 10 seasons at Hargrave, winning two national prep championships. Hargrave turned out 103 players who signed Division I scholarships during Keatts' tenure. Five of his former players are in the NBA.

Pitino praised Keatts for his potential as a recruiter. Keatts joins a revamped Louisville staff that includes Richard Pitino and former new Mexico assistant Wyking Jones, who were hired on Tuesday.

Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

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

NEW ZEALAND

Kirk Penney all set for shootout on the Shore - by Eurobasket News
He was never going to miss this one. Not Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin). Not after his sub-par game two. Not with all that's at stake tonight at the North Shore Events Centre.

So, sore back or not and he says he's fine, after Wednesday's spasm-induced scare Penney will line up with his New Zealand Breakers team-mates tonight for the deciding game three of the Australian NBL grand final series against the Cairns Taipans.

It's a match Penney was probably going to play even if they had to push him out in a wheelchair. For the record they won't have to, with his back responding well to treatment.

He's played in some big games in his time a college final four in the US, a world championship semifinal in Indianapolis and in the Euroleague finals but there is something special about this contest which has captured the imagination of the Kiwi sporting public.

There were half-a-million hits on the agency's website in a few hours when tickets went on sale, sending it crashing and leaving thousands of bandwagon-jumping hoops fans disappointed.

This is the sporting story of the week as the Breakers chase a slice of history, not only by claiming their maiden ANBL championship but by becoming the first Kiwi team to crack a major Australian league. Between basketball, rugby league and football there have been 34 seasons of ignominy, ineptitude and the odd near miss. It would be a significant achievement, to say the least.

So much, you have to think, is going to hinge on Penney, who will go head-to-head with the Taipans' Ron Dorsey in a battle of the long-range gunners that could prove decisive.

In game one Penney delivered and the Breakers eased to an 85-67 victory. The classy swingman went nine-of-17 from the field, four-of-eight from deep and finished with a game-high 25 points. For the record, Dorsey was a non-factor with 12 points on three-of-nine shooting.

But in Cairns last Sunday the tables were turned. It was Penney who struggled to make an imprint going four-of-12 for a dozen quiet points and Detroit native Dorsey who slotted six trifectas amid a game-high 22 points in the series-levelling double-overtime 85-81 victory.

In Cairns, the Snakes switched out on Penney and flustered him into four turnovers and those eight misses. Not coincidentally the Breakers struggled offensively, even though they very nearly sneaked a famous victory in that first overtime.

But it was then that Dorsey showed just how lethal he can be with a sliver of daylight. The Breakers led by four inside 11 seconds. But Dorsey made a deep three and then with time up connected on a scrambling heave from the car park that sent it into a second extra period.

Penney deflects talk of a duel between the gunners and says his mindset isn't about making any statements tonight. But here's a fact: in the eight Breakers defeats this season Penney has been kept to nearly six points under his average.

In other words, when Penney struggles, so too does his team. No pressure, then.

'I just want to win this thing,' he says, soon after declaring himself fit. 'If they switch defenders it means our four-men are going to be naked under the rim and we should get open looks. It's just responding to how they're playing. However we get it done, whoever steps up, whatever the case may be, we just want to win this game.'

Let's cast our mind back to the semifinal series. In game one Penney is held to just 14 points and the Cats wipe the floor with the Breakers. Next game out in Perth, the Tall Blacks star erupts for 38 in a brilliant victory. It's response time again.

'We have to go out and play with that unbelievable urgency and mental awareness and just play so hard,' adds Penney. 'In Cairns we let ourselves down and were very disappointed how we played. Now it's our chance to respond and win this thing the way we're capable of.'

Penney says the Breakers have to be 'conscious' of Dorsey, but not captivated by him. 'We know what he's capable of doing now and the shots he's capable of making.'

Dorsey, for his part, anticipates a Penney rejoinder tonight.

'It's a big one,' said the athletic small forward. 'Game one he had a big game and game two we focused down on him a bit more. But he's going to come back at us in game three and we've got to focus on him again.'

If the Breakers find their fluency they should reward the sellout crowd with a night to remember. It's hard to believe Penney and Gary Wilkinson can be contained two games in a row.

Kevin Braswell and Tom Abercrombie made their shots in Cairns, and may need to again if the Taipans key in on the Breakers' key threats so heavily again.

'If we play how we're capable of we should win the championship,' says Penney without a hint of hubris. 'That's got to be our mindset. We believe in ourselves, and it's time to do it.'

PENNEY Vs DORSEY

Season averages: Penney: 20.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists.
Dorsey: 13.4pts, 4.8 reb, 1.2 assists

Penney's strengths: Comes off screens well and has a quick and deadly release Strong enough to take it to the hoop if he finds the seam Knows where to find his shots and how to lose defenders

Penney's weaknesses: Doesn't have the safest handles off dribble Needs to make quicker decisions on switches Can be turnover-prone under pressure

Dorsey's strengths: Elevation means he can get shots off over defenders Is quick for his size and has huge range Doesn't fear the big shots

Dorsey's weaknesses: Goes missing in games Can be shut down by physical defence Shot selection questionable under pressure

Courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz

It's about getting the job done - Henare - by Eurobasket News
It will be his 250th and final game for the New Zealand Breakers in the No32 singlet, which will next season be raised to the rafters. But Paul Henare (182-G-79) says he doesn't believe in fairytale finishes.

So for Henare, tonight's ANBL finals decider against the Cairns Taipans isn't about destiny, or fairytales, or dreams coming true. It's about what it's always been about for this foundation Breaker who finally brings down the curtain on eight years of unyielding service.

'I don't believe in destiny, fairytales, all those sort of things,' the 32-year-old said yesterday. 'I've had comments from people saying it just seems that it's meant to be. I don't believe in that. You have to go out and earn everything to get things you want.

'That's who I am as a person and as player, and that's how I approach this game. You have to put in the hard work, and as a team we're at our best when we're knuckling down, rebounding, playing defence and doing all the hard yards.

'That's when we play our best and that's what we need if we want to beat Cairns.'

Henare said the focus of finals basketball had prevented him thinking too hard about his retirement he's bowing out to take up a coaching gig with Hawke's Bay. But the only ever-present Breaker says he's aware a story-book ending awaits.

'I couldn't ask for a better way to go out,' he said. 'Dare I say it, win or lose it's been just a great ride. Yes, it would be a story-book end to finish with a championship, and myself and the team will be doing everything we can to make sure that happens.'

And will there be tears at some stage during what's sure to be an emotional evening?

'I don't know. Definitely not beforehand, and afterwards who knows? Either way the emotions may take over. It's something I've thought about and we'll see what happens when that final buzzer goes.'

Henare will have partner Lisa and baby Kaia there in the stands, alongside mother Jan and brother Jamie, providing they were able to get out of Hawke's Bay all right because of the weather.

And for a fellow who's played in a world championship semifinal for his country, he happily rates this game as right up there with the big ones in his special career.

Meanwhile, Breakers forward Thomas Abercrombie, coming off a 17-point/five rebound game two, says he's ready to step up again if Kirk Penney draws extra attention from the Taipans defence.

'I'm sure they'll go after Kirk again. Everyone knows he's a big part of what we do,' said the Breakers' rising young star. 'So it's just about myself and other guys stepping up when we get those opportunities. When Kirk draws attention, and we get open looks, we've got to knock them down.'

Abercrombie said neither team had played particularly well in an exciting game two, and he felt the upside was with the Breakers.

'We certainly feel that if we play the way we're capable of we'll win. They did a good job in game two of taking us out of our stuff and making us play the way we didn't want to play. It's about keeping to our systems and playing how we want to.'

The athletic forward said a special moment awaited if the Breakers could focus on the processes and the little things within the contest.

'We're in the position we want to be in, playing game three at home. It's a great position, we've just got to go out and make the most of it.'

Courtesy of www.stuff.co.nz

Jason Crowe back to Waikato Pistons - by Eurobasket News
According to the reports from Bulgarian media, Jason Crowe (193-G-76, college: Cal.St. Northridge) did not have to wait long to find new club after recently leaving Levski Sofia. American guard is set to continue his career in New Zealand. Reportedly, Crow has reached agreement with Waikato Pistons. Levski and Crowe parted ways few weeks back and it still remains to be seen whether the team will bring in replacement. This will be Crowes 2nd stint with New Zealand outfit, having played for them in 2008.
Jason Crowe played collegiate basketball as member of California State - Northridge. He signed his professional contract in 2001 when he agreed with Ukrainian outfit BC Kiev. So far in his career, Crowe has played for the likes of Klima-Vill Kaposvar, MOL Szolnoki Olajbanyasz, Petrochimi Imam Harbour, Waikato Pistons and Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk among others. He has won National Title in New Zealand in 2008 as member of Waikato Pistons. At the start of this season he signed with Levski Sofia.

Standings Men

NBL Standings

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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Nick HORVATH
  Manawatu.
  (208-F/C-81)
  Avg: 25.5

1. Horvath, Manawatu.	25.5
2. Polyblank, Southla.	22.0
3. Pace, Bay Hawks	21.8
4. Smith, Waikato P.	21.8
5. Mickens, Auckland.	21.7
6. Dora, Nelson G.	21.3
7. Leasure, Taranaki.	20.7
8. O''Gallagher, Ocean.	20.5
9. Allen, Waikato P.	19.8
10. Johnson, Wellingt.	19.7

Rebounds Per Game

Lance ALLRED
  OceanaGo.
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 13

1. Allred, OceanaGo.	13.0
2. Johnson, Wellingt.	11.3
3. Bradshaw, OceanaG.	11.0
4. Frank, Wellington	10.7
5. Horvath, Manawatu.	10.0
6. Seay, Waikato P.	9.3
7. Dawson, Southlan.	9.0
8. Henry, Wellington	9.0
9. Anthony, Waika.	9.0
10. Brown, Auckland P.	8.7

Assists Per Game

George LE''AFA
  Wellingt.
  (178-PG-78)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Le''afa, Wellingt.	7.3
2. Dickel, Southland	7.0
3. Kench, Manawatu J.	5.5
4. Martin, Auckland.	4.7
5. Frank, Wellington	4.7
6. O''Gallagher, Ocean.	4.0
7. Kenny, Bay Hawks	3.8
8. Smith, Waikato P.	3.8
9. Leasure, Taranaki.	3.0
10. Henry, Wellington	2.5

Steals Per Game

Mark DICKEL
  Southland S.
  (187-G-76)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Dickel, Southland	2.5
2. Polyblank, Southla.	2.5
3. Smith, Waikato P.	2.5
4. Allen, Waikato P.	2.5
5. Seay, Waikato P.	2.3
6. Maxey, Wellington	2.0
7. Hudson, Manawatu.	2.0
8. Johnson, Wellingt.	1.7
9. Frank, Wellington	1.7
10. Dempster, Nelson	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Marcus CAMPBELL
  Taranaki.
  (214-C-82)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Campbell, Taranaki.	2.7
2. Henry, Wellington	1.5
3. Seay, Waikato P.	1.5
4. Anthony, Waika.	1.5
5. Brown, Auckland P.	1.3
6. Frank, Wellington	1.3
7. Spicer, Southlan.	1.0
8. Bradshaw, OceanaG.	1.0
9. Iti, Southland S.	1.0
10. Bailey-N., Tarana.	1.0

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

PUERTO RICO

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

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

Stats Leaders - BSN

Points Per Game

Angel Daniel VASSALLO
  Guaynabo
  (198-G/F-86)
  Avg: 22.9

1. Vassallo, Guaynabo	22.9
2. Villegas, Coamo	21.9
3. Dalmau, Bayamon	21.4
4. Ramos, Quebradillas	21.1
5. Clinch, Isabela	20.0
6. Romero, Mayaguez	18.6
7. Brown, Quebradillas	17.6
8. Shannon, Bayamon	17.5
9. Sweetney, Santurce	16.5
10. Harris, San German	16.3

Rebounds Per Game

Manuel Antonio NARVAEZ
  Coamo
  (211-C-81)
  Avg: 12.8

1. Narvaez, Coamo	12.8
2. Randolph, Isabela	12.0
3. Ramos, Quebradillas	11.7
4. Pruitt, Guaynabo	11.5
5. Lloreda, San G.	10.3
6. Shannon, Bayamon	10.2
7. Romero, Mayaguez	9.7
8. Harris, San German	9.0
9. Sweetney, Santurce	8.5
10. Ofoegbu, Humacao	8.2

Assists Per Game

Daniel BROWN
  Quebradillas
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Brown, Quebradillas	6.3
2. Dalmau, Bayamon	6.3
3. Clinch, Isabela	5.7
4. Guzman, Guaynabo	5.1
5. Cruz, Arecibo	4.8
6. Rivera, Mayaguez	4.2
7. Copeland, San G.	4.1
8. Vega, Coamo	4.1
9. Hodge, Santurce	3.8
10. Pagan, Santurce	3.8

Steals Per Game

Eddin ''Guayito'' SANTIAGO
  Santurce
  (185-G-79)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Santiago, Santurce	2.3
2. Clinch, Isabela	2.2
3. Hinson, Isabela	2.2
4. Pinnock, Arecibo	1.7
5. Chaney, Santurce	1.6
6. Cruz, Arecibo	1.5
7. Carmona, Mayaguez	1.5
8. Dalmau, Bayamon	1.5
9. Harris, San German	1.5
10. Robinson, Humacao	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Herve LAMIZANA
  Mayaguez
  (207-F/C-81)
  Avg: 3

1. Lamizana, Mayaguez	3.0
2. Penn, Humacao	2.8
3. Santiago, Arecibo	2.1
4. Traylor, Bayamon	2.0
5. Romero, Mayaguez	1.9
6. Harris, San German	1.5
7. Shannon, Bayamon	1.4
8. Randolph, Isabela	1.2
9. Freije, Coamo	1.2
10. Rice, San German	1.2

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

QATAR

Gharrafah edge Rayyan in overtime to clinch Emir Cup title - by Eurobasket News
Gharrafah - Rayyan 91:85 (OT)

Gharrafah repeated as Emir Cup champions. They outscored Rayyan in the extra period to celebrate the title for the second season in a row. Alexander McLean (203-F-85, agency: Strategic Sports) scored 22 points and collected 9 rebounds to lead Gharrafah to the triumph.
The start of the game saw teams stayed close. Gharrafah earned a narrow 17:16 lead after ten minutes. Rayyan however surged ahead in the second period. Chauncey Leslie (183-G-81, college: Iowa) and Ngombo ensured a 37:33 halftime advantage for Rayyan. The QBF League defending champions maintained the lead throughout the third frame. They ensured a 4-point lead at the final break 63:59. Yasseen Musa stretched the gap to 9 points in the fourth period but it was not enough. Gharrafah went on a rescue rally to level things up and forced overtime. Gharrafah capped overtime with a 6:0 run and celebrated victory at the end. Omar Abd produced 20 points and 17 rebounds for Gharrafah. Oussaynu Ndaye had 20 points in the win. Chauncey Leslie answered with game-high 36 points and 10 rebounds for Rayyan. Leather Terrence (204-C-81, college: S.Florida) finished with 15 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Gharrafah: Alexander McLean 22, Omar Abd 20+17 boards, Oussaynu Ndaye 20
Rayyan: Chauncey Leslie 36+10 boards, Leather Terrence 15

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

ROMANIA

Ploiesti and Gaz Metan won the first Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Ploiesti and Gaz Metan won the first Semi-Finals.

Ploiesti - Steaua Turabo 89-85

The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Steaua Turabo won fourth quarter 28-26. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ploiesti made 23-of-30 charity shots (76.7 percent) during the game. The former international center Catalin Burlacu (210-77, agency: Court Side) stepped up and scored 22 points and 7 rebounds for the winners and the former international swingman Levente Szijarto (192-83, agency: Court Side) chipped in 22 points. At the losing side Bulgarian forward Hristo Nikolov (200-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded with 27 points (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and Maltese-American guard Joshua Jackson (188-85, college: Warner Pacific, agency: Global Sports Plaza) scored 24 points.
Top scorers:
Ploiesti: L.Szijarto 22+1ast, C.Burlacu 22+7reb+3ast, D.Mack 17+2reb, J.Westrol 8+5reb+4ast, A.Blidaru 7+3reb+10ast, K.Ford 6+9reb
Steaua Turabo: H.Nikolov 27+3reb+3ast, J.Jackson 24+4reb+2ast, V.Stanescu 14+7reb, I.Tomeljak 7+3reb+4ast, A.Mandache 5+1reb+6ast, B.Popescu 5+4reb+1ast

U.Mobitel.CN - Gaz Metan 65-67

The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 18-10. But U-Mobitelco won second period 20-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Gaz Metan won last quarter 15-15. Gaz Metan outrebounded U-Mobitelco 43-25 including a 30-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Jarrett Howell (188-84, college: Texas Arlington, agency: Beo Basket) who helped to win the game recording 19 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Montenegrin-Serbian forward Ivan Ivanovic (205-80, agency: Beo Basket) contributed with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American swingman Kyndall Dykes (191-87, college: New Orleans, agency: Edge Sports) answered with 20 points and Montenegrin guard Branko Cuic (196-78) added 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for U-Mobitelco.
Top scorers:
Gaz Metan: J.Howell 19+5reb+5ast, I.Ivanovic 15+9reb+4ast, T.Dumitrescu 9+3reb+2ast, I.Dragusin 8+5reb, T.Nicoara 8+9reb, U.Velickovic 4+3reb+4ast
U.Mobitel.CN: K.Dykes 20+1reb+3ast, Z.Krstanovic 12+6reb+1ast, B.Cuic 11+7reb+5ast, M.Silvasan 8+3reb+1ast, P.Chetreanu 7+2reb, C.Fometescu 5+2ast

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

LeRoy DAWSON
  Polite.
  (188-G-81)
  Avg: 22

1. Dawson, Polite.	22.0
2. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.	20.7
3. Hannah, Miercure.	20.5
4. Dykes, U.Mobite.	20.5
5. Horton, Craiova	20.1
6. Tomic, CSM B.	19.9
7. Pesic, Timisoara	19.8
8. Darby, Rovinari	19.1
9. Vujacic, Pitesti	19.0
10. Gennie, Pitesti	18.8

Rebounds Per Game

Kenneth SIMMS
  Craiova
  (203-C-)
  Avg: 11.1

1. Simms, Craiova	11.1
2. Coleman, Miercure.	9.8
3. Bennett, CSM B.	9.6
4. Nicoara, Gaz Metan	9.4
5. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.	9.3
6. Bigus, Rovinari	9.3
7. Forte, Mures	8.5
8. Burlacu, Ploiesti	7.7
9. Eichelberger, Pite.	7.7
10. Harrison, CSU Sib.	7.7

Assists Per Game

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

1. Cooley, Mures	8.3
2. Dzambic, CSM B.	7.9
3. Hannah, Miercure.	6.2
4. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN	5.4
5. Howell, Gaz Metan	5.3
6. Stojakovic, Craiova	5.2
7. Blidaru, Ploiesti	5.1
8. Medvedj, Otopeni	4.9
9. Gennie, Pitesti	4.8
10. Dzambic, Timisoara	4.7

Steals Per Game

Nikola STOJAKOVIC
  Craiova
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Stojakovic, Craiova	2.5
2. Cooley, Mures	2.4
3. Gennie, Pitesti	2.4
4. Harrison, CSU Sibiu	2.4
5. Mitchell, Gaz Metan	2.3
6. Howell, Gaz Metan	2.3
7. Blidaru, Ploiesti	2.0
8. Dawson, Polite.	2.0
9. Dykes, U.Mobite.	2.0
10. Eichelberger, Pit.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Harrison, CSU Sibiu	1.8
2. Eichelberger, Pite.	1.6
3. Capusan, Rovinari	1.6
4. Masiulis, CSU S.	1.5
5. Herndon, CSU Sibiu	1.4
6. Mladenovic, Mures	1.4
7. Simms, Craiova	1.3
8. Lazar, Oradea	1.2
9. Dragusin, Gaz M.	1.0
10. Burlacu, Ploiesti	0.9

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

RUSSIA

Lyday's 39-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
31-year old guard Terrell Lyday (190-G-79) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Unics Kazan and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
He had the game-high 39 points adding two rebounds and two assists for Unics in his team's victory, helping them to crush Enisey (#6, 10-12) with 25-point margin 101-76. It allowed Unics to consolidate first place in the Russian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Unics has a very solid 16-5 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Lyday had a remarkable 88.9% from 2-point range and got six three-pointers out of 7 attempts. He has many years of experience at Unics, through which he has constantly improved. Terrell Lyday averages this season 13.5ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) of CSKA Moscow. He is international center in his 5th season at CSKA. In the last game Vorontsevich recorded impressive 29 points and 9 rebounds. It was enough for CSKA to edge the lower-ranked Triumph (#10, 4-18) by 4 points 87-83. This victory allowed CSKA to move up to 4th position in the standings. His team's 15-8 record is not bad at all. Vorontsevich is one of the most experienced players at CSKA and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Patrick Beverley (185-G-88) of Spartak SP (#3). Beverley scored 24 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Spartak SP, leading his team to a 72-71 win against the lower-ranked Krasnie Krilya (#8, 7-15). Spartak SP needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 8 lost games. Beverley has a great season in Russia. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 13.6ppg (8th best) and rebounds with 6.9rpg (4th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lonny Baxter (204-C-79) of Enisey - 23 points and 8 rebounds
5. Tywain McKee (188-G-86) of Triumph - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Eugeny Voronov (193-G-86) of Dynamo - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) of CSKA - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85) of Unics - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Sasha Kaun (211-C-85) of CSKA - 15 points and 5 rebounds
10. Primoz Brezec (216-F/C-79) of Krasnie Krilya - 7 points and 10 rebounds

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

Lokomotiv Kuban earn EuroChallenge Final birth - by Eurobasket News
Lokomotiv Kuban - Spartak SP 74:64

Lokomotiv Kuban punched their EuroChallenge Final ticket. They overcame Spartak Saint Petersburg in the first semifinal in Oostende tonight. Lokomotiv Kuban put on an amazing show to tame their Russian rivals.
Patrick Beverley (185-G-88, college: Arkansas) opened the game with a three-pointer but Lokomotiv quickly erased the deficit and surged ahead. Lionel Chalmers (184-G-80, college: Xavier), Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) and Wilkinson triggered an 11:0 run as Lokomotiv earned a 13:4 lead. Jeremiah Massey and Lionel Chalmers soon opened a double-digit lead midway through the opening stanza. Spartak stopped the bleeding as they cut the deficit at 3-point mark at the first intermission 15:18. Patrick Beverley hit a three-pointer to level things up at the start of the second stanza. Spartak pulled ahead midway through the second period but Lokomotiv quickly answered with eight points in a row to grab the advantage. Jeremiah Massey capped the half with a three-pointer as Lokomotiv Kuban posted a 41:30 halftime lead. Lokomotiv kept their opponents at bay throughout the third term. Kestutis Kemzura team earned a 60:50 lead with one quarter to go. Lokomotiv were up by 12 points with just over four minutes remaining but Nikola Dragovic (206-F-87, college: UCLA) knocked down back-to-back trebles to revive the intrigue. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) dragged Spartak within four points but Lionel Chalmers and Wilkinson came up with timely buckets and sealed the victory. Jeremiah Massey stepped up with 21 points for Lokomotiv Kuban. Lionel Chalmers contributed 20 points in the winning effort. Pero Antic answered with 14 points and 9 rebounds for Spartak SP. Patrick Beverley accounted for 13 points in the loss.

Lokomotiv Kuban: Jeremiah Massey 21, Lionel Chalmers 20, Alando Tucker 18
Spartak SP: Pero Antic 14, Patrick Beverley 13

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

SAUDI ARABIA

Al-Ittihad is the winner of the Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
It became known long time ago in the Regular Season, however now officially Al-Ittihad is the Winner of the Regular Season in the country. The favorites finished the season with only one game lost. On April 8th Al-Ansar overcame Al-Ittihad 64:61 at the Hall of Youth Care. Ansar finished second with 18-4 record.

D1 Standings

D1 Standings

1. Al Ittihad		20-1
2. Al Ansar		18-4
3. Al Hilal		17-5
4. Al Fateh		16-6
5. Al Nahda		12-9
6. Al Ahli		11-11
7. Ohud		10-8
8. Al Wahda		8-12
9. Al Jubail		5-15
10. Al Safwa		4-16
11. Al Shrooq		2-18
12. Al Maseerah		2-20

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

SERBIA

Best players of Superleague Round 9 - by Eurobasket News
30-year old guard Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) put on an amazing game in the last round for second-ranked Hemofarm and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 9.
He got a double-double of 16 points and 11 assists, while his team crushed Crvena Zvezda (#4, 4-5) with 22-point margin 86-64. Hemofarm maintains the 2nd position in Serbian league. They would have been even better if they did not have these two lost games earlier in Second Stage. Hemofarm will need more victories to improve their 7-2 record. In the team's last game Krstovic had a remarkable four three-pointers out of 6 attempts. He has many years of experience at Hemofarm, through which he has constantly improved. Bojan Krstovic averages this season 5.7ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Dragan Mitrovic (200-F-85) of OKK Beograd. He is a forward in his 7th season at Beograd. In the last game Mitrovic recorded impressive triple-double of 22 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists. Bad luck as Beograd lost that game 85-91 to the higher-ranked Radnicki (#3, 6-3). Beograd managed to keep the same 7th spot in . His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 3-6 record. Mitrovic is one of the most experienced players at Beograd and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another OKK Beograd's star - forward Dragan Mitrovic (200-F-85). Mitrovic showcased his all-around game by recording 11 points, six rebounds and ten assists (!!!) in the last round. He was another key player of Beograd, helping his team with a 89-88 win (ROUND 3) against the higher-ranked Crvena Zvezda (#4, 4-5). The chances of Beograd not to end season at such low position in Round 3, however are less than slim as they have already lost 6 games, recording just three victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Mitrovic could try to bring Beograd's a little bit higher in the standings. Mitrovic has individually a great season in Serbia. After 35 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 4.8apg (5th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Michael Lee (207-F-86) of Radnicki - 15 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Sava Lesic (205-C/F-88) of Crvena Zvezda - 16 points and 14 rebounds
6. Sava Lesic (205-C/F-88) of Crvena Zvezda - 16 points and 10 rebounds
7. Uros Lucic (207-C-83) of Beograd - 19 points and 8 rebounds
8. Slobodan Dundjerski (190-G-88) of Beograd - 11 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists
9. Marko Sutalo (194-G-83) of Hemofarm - 24 points and 2 rebounds
10. Rasko Katic (208-F-80) of Partizan - 15 points and 8 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)

Partizan locks prospect Nenad Miljenovic until 2015 - by Eurobasket News
Partizan announced signing of Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) to a four-year deal. One of the top Serbian prospects arrives from FMP Zeleznik, where he played for junior team. He helped FMP reach the Nike Euroleague Junior Tournament Final last year and was named MVP of this event (17.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 4.8 rpg and 2.5 spg). In 2009, Miljenovic led FMP to trophy at the same tournament. That same summer he paced U16 Serbia to Bronze medal at the U16 EuroBasket n Kaunas. He had 17.7 ppg, 7 rpg and 4.7 rpg for 9 games. Eurobasket.com awarded Miljenovic with All-European Championships U16 Best Guard. Last summer at the U17 World Championship in Hamburg Miljenovic averaged 15.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 3.1 apg. He also was a member of U18 Serbia.
Partizan defended Adriatic league title and Serbian Cup this season. They currently have 7-1 record in Serbian Superleague.

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

SLOVAKIA

Stats Leaders - D1

Points Per Game

Adam MCCOY
  Svit
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 26.6

1. McCoy, Svit	26.6
2. Fears, Prievidza	23.3
3. Burrows, Komarno	21.7
4. Carter, Vahostav.	20.9
5. Sapp, Pezinok	20.2
6. Delic, Handlova	20.2
7. Jackson, Komarno	19.2
8. Tomek, Nitra	18.8
9. McCoy, Vahostav.	18.1
10. Lukjanec, Pezinok	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

Branislav TOMEK
  Nitra
  (205-C-83)
  Avg: 11.9

1. Tomek, Nitra	11.9
2. Jackson, Komarno	11.2
3. Delic, Handlova	9.3
4. Szalay, Prievidza	8.8
5. Johnson, Nova Ves	8.4
6. Micuda, Pezinok	8.2
7. Carter, Vahostav.	8.1
8. Johnson, Komarno	7.9
9. Burrows, Komarno	7.6
10. Dorazil, Svit	7.5

Assists Per Game

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

1. Moore, Nitra	6.9
2. Jones, Komarno	6.4
3. Jefferson, Nova V.	6.0
4. Fears, Prievidza	5.6
5. Cosic, Svit	5.2
6. English, Levice	5.1
7. Sapp, Pezinok	4.4
8. Milosevic, Pezinok	4.1
9. Kostomaj, Levice	4.0
10. Gavlak, Handlova	3.9

Steals Per Game

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

1. Fears, Prievidza	3.1
2. Carter, Vahostav.	2.5
3. English, Levice	2.4
4. Moore, Nitra	2.4
5. Jefferson, Nova V.	2.2
6. Nuber, Handlova	2.1
7. Jones, Komarno	2.0
8. Sapp, Pezinok	2.0
9. Zavodny, Vahost.	1.9
10. Zilik, Inter B.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Gabriel SZALAY
  Prievidza
  (215-C-86)
  Avg: 1.9

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

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

SLOVENIA

Krka's bench outscores the entire Slovan team - by Zeljko Zule
Krka's bench players outscored the entire Slovan team 59-57 in Telemach Superleague's Round 8 victory, 98-57. Helios gained control of a game against Hopsi with a 26-4 run spanning halftime. Zlatorog produced an 18-3 run and grabbed the lone lead change in the match against Maribor. Olimpija crushed Elektra by 35 points.
Krka-Slovan 98-57: Krka never trailed and its bench players outscored the entire Slovan's team 59-57. Zoran Dragic and Chris Booker both came from the bench for 16 points each, Edo Muric scored 13 points and Jure Balazic finished with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Krka shot 13-of-20 behind the 3-point line nad grabbed 40 rebounds. Slovan was led by Jaka Blazic and his 20 points, Uros Zadnik and Luka Rupnik added 10 points apiece.
Helios-Hopsi 90-74: Helios made a 26-4 run spanning halftime to go ahead 67-41. Grega Mali (197-G-84) scored 26 points on shooting 6-of-8 behind the 3-point line, Benjamin Raymond had 20 points and 6 assists. For Hopsi, Dmitry Sviridov posted 18 points, Stanko Sebic 16 and Igor Mijajlovic and Denis Vrsaljko scored 10 points each.
Maribor-Zlatorog 75-86: Zlatorog would need just one lead change and an 18-3 run over an eight minute span to secure the decision. Zlatorog took a 32-24 advantage and opened the second half with a 12-2 span. Vladimir Panic scored 29 points on shooting 10-of-14 from the field and Luka Lapornik added 11 rebounds. Maribor's bench players were outscored by opposing reserves 14-29. Sasa Mucic finished with 22 points and 9 rebounds, Elvis Kadic posted 15 points and Ilija Zolotic had 14 points and 7 rebounds.
Elektra-Olimpija 49-84: Olimpija never trailed and won in all four quarters. Goran Jagodnik scored 15 points, Kenny Gregory 12, Vlado Ilievski and Aloysious Anagonye both netted 11 points and Damir Markota 10. Elektra's lone scorer in double figures was Salih Nuhanovic, who contributed 10 of his total 12 points in the first quarter.

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

SWEDEN

Stats Leaders - Basketligan

Points Per Game

Darius HARGROVE
  Jamtland
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 21.9

1. Hargrove, Jamtland	21.9
2. Brown, 08	20.5
3. Smith, Sodertalje	19.9
4. Palm, Boras	19.4
5. Smith, Uppsala	18.8
6. Rush, Sundsvall	18.5
7. McCoy, Boras	18.4
8. Wesby, Sundsvall	18.0
9. Gunnarsson, Solna	17.1
10. Levett, LF Basket	16.3

Rebounds Per Game

Michael PALM
  Boras
  (208-C-79)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Palm, Boras	10.3
2. Baeringsson, Sunds.	10.0
3. Kosmalski, Solna	8.6
4. McKnight, Boras	8.5
5. Kjellbom, Norrkopi.	7.9
6. Brown, 08	7.9
7. Cipriano, Eco O.	7.5
8. Walker, Solna	7.5
9. Constantine, Solna	7.5
10. Salaam, Jamtland	7.0

Assists Per Game

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

1. Mbemba, LF Basket	6.3
2. Pleick, Eco Orebro	5.5
3. Beck, 08	5.1
4. Chuk, Sodertalje	4.5
5. McCoy, Boras	4.4
6. Smith, Uppsala	4.4
7. Mitchell, Norrkopi.	4.0
8. Hellgren, Jamtland	4.0
9. Smith, Sodertalje	4.0
10. Ilunga, Solna	3.8

Steals Per Game

Johnell SMITH
  Sodertalje
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 3

1. Smith, Sodertalje	3.0
2. Mbemba, LF Basket	2.9
3. Hargrove, Jamtland	1.9
4. Hellgren, Jamtland	1.8
5. Pleick, Eco Orebro	1.8
6. Smith, Uppsala	1.8
7. Brown, 08	1.7
8. Rush, Sundsvall	1.7
9. McCoy, Boras	1.7
10. Baeringsson, Sund.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Rosendahl, LF Ba.	1.9
2. Salaam, Jamtland	1.8
3. Kjellbom, Norrkopi.	1.8
4. Palm, Boras	1.4
5. Cipriano, Eco O.	1.3
6. Constantine, Solna	1.2
7. Kohlmaier, Uppsala	1.1
8. Ayuba, Norrkoping	1.0
9. Walker, Solna	0.9
10. Mosley, Eco Orebro	0.8

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

SWITZERLAND

LNA Round 3 of Semi-Finals. Lugano Tigers clinch Finals birth - by Eurobasket News
Geneve Lions - Fribourg 50-74

Fribourg surged ahead in the series against Geneve Lions. The game was mostly controlled by Fribourg. Geneve Lions managed to win fourth quarter 11-7. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Geneve Lions 44-30 including 18 on the offensive glass. It was a good game for American forward Steve Smith (200-81, college: Iona) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds. The former international guard Vladimir Buscaglia (197-80, college: his fellow American import) contributed with 20 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Four Fribourg players scored in double figures. Naturalized Senegalese forward Jules Aw (200-86) answered with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds and Senegalese power forward Babacar Toure (205-85) added 15 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Geneve Lions. 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:
Geneve Lions: B.Toure 15+9reb, J.Aw 14+11reb+1ast, J.Jaunin 5+1reb+1ast, J.Almanson 5+4reb, M.Maruotto 5+1reb, M.Sloan 4+1reb
Fribourg: S.Smith 22+12reb+2ast, V.Buscaglia 20+5reb+2ast, D.Esterkamp 12+8reb+1ast, Y.Holland 10+11reb+2ast, T.Quidome 6+2reb+2ast, J.Kazadi 4+2reb+4ast

Monthey - Lugano Tigers 49-77

Lugano Tigers advanced into LNA Finals following a comfortable road win over Monthey. Monthey was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 48-18 second half run of Lugano Tigers. They dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Monthey's 24. They outrebounded Monthey 44-31 including 34 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for American-Nigerian guard Michael Efevberha (196-G-84, college: Cal.St. Northridge) who led his team to a victory scoring 20 points and 6 rebounds. American forward Mohammed Abukar (208-85, college: San Diego St.) helped adding 17 points. Four Lugano Tigers players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American guard John Sharper (186-84, college: San Diego St.) with 13 points and 8 rebounds and American-Jamaican forward Ronald Yates (201-83, college: St.Peter's, agency: SportsList Inc.) scored 14 points and 6 rebounds. Monthey's coach Thibaut Petit gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Monthey: R.Yates 14+6reb+3ast, J.Sharper 13+8reb+3ast, A.Reid 8+1reb, J.Dubas 7+6reb, S.Louissaint 3+1reb+1ast, S.Moris 2+5reb
Lugano Tigers: M.Efevberha 20+6reb+2ast, M.Abukar 17+3reb+3ast, M.Schneiderman 16+5reb, S.Finn 10+10reb, D.Stockalper 7+7reb+4ast, D.Mladjan 3+3reb

Stats Leaders LNA

Points Per Game

Mohammed ABUKAR
  Lugano T.
  (208-F-85)
  Avg: 21.1

1. Abukar, Lugano T.	21.1
2. Brown, Starwings	20.5
3. Glover, Boncourt	20.3
4. Byron, BBC Nyon	20.2
5. Smith, Fribourg	20.2
6. Polyblank, Geneve	20.1
7. Popovich, SAV V.	20.0
8. Farokhmanesh, SAM	19.5
9. Reid, Monthey	18.5
10. Hunte, BBC Nyon	18.2

Rebounds Per Game

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

1. Daniels, BBC Nyon	12.2
2. Thompson, Starw.	10.6
3. Ofoegbu, SAM M.	9.9
4. Gugino, Boncourt	9.7
5. Reid, Monthey	8.5
6. Dos Santos, Bonco.	8.2
7. Toure, Geneve Lio.	7.8
8. Sloan, Geneve Lio.	7.8
9. Smith, Fribourg	7.7
10. Esterkamp, Fribo.	7.6

Assists Per Game

Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo	7.5
2. Glover, Boncourt	6.3
3. Williams, Fribourg	5.8
4. Brown, Starwings	4.5
5. Angley, Lugano T.	4.5
6. Draughan, Lugano	4.3
7. Hollins, Starwings	4.2
8. Petkovic, Fribourg	4.1
9. Ross, Geneve Lions	4.1
10. Esterkamp, Fribo.	4.0

Steals Per Game

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

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

Blocks Per Game

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

1. Daniels, BBC Nyon	3.3
2. Toure, Geneve Lio.	2.2
3. Thompson, Starw.	2.0
4. Lukic, Zurich W.	1.7
5. Gugino, Boncourt	1.5
6. Sloan, Geneve Lio.	1.4
7. Sanders, Lugano T.	0.9
8. Moris, Monthey	0.8
9. Vogt, Fribourg	0.8
10. Matter, Starwings	0.8

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TURKEY

Standings - TBL

TBL Standings

1. Fener.Ulker		26-3
2. Galatasaray		22-6
3. Banvit		21-7
4. Efes Pilsen		20-8
5. Karsiyaka		19-9
6. Besiktas		18-10
7. Olin Edirne		16-12
8. Antalya		13-15
9. Turk Telekom		11-17
10. Tofas		11-17
11. Trabzonspor		10-18
12. Erdemir		10-18
13. Mersin		10-19
14. Aliaga		8-20
15. Bornova		7-21
16. Oyak Renault		3-25

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UKRAINE

Standings - Higher League

Higher Standings

Places 1-8
1. Cherkasy		23-1
2. U-VolinBasket		14-6
3. Aviastar		11-13
4. Avantazh-Pol.		10-8
5. Dynamo DN		10-12
6. Kremen-KNU		7-15
7. Pulsar		6-16
8. Vinnitsky Zubry		5-15
Places 9-13
1. KTU Krivyi Rih		8-2
2. Koksokh-Stal		8-4
3. Striba		7-7
4. Sportlitsey		7-7
5. Ternopil		0-10

Cherkasy clinch Higher League title - by Eurobasket News
Cherkasy celebrated the Higher League title. They built an insurmountable distance to their closest rivals after edging Aviastar 69:57 in the latest encounter. Ilya Korotkov (197-F-85) knocked down 14 points to lead Cherkasy to 22-1 record in the tournament. Aviastar led by one point after ten minutes of action before Cherkasy took over. They eked out a 34:33 halftime lead. The hosts pushed harder and built a 6-point advantage with ten minutes remaining. Cherkasy limited Aviastar to only 13 points in the final stanza and rolled to the victory at the end. Vitaliy Bliznyuk (206-C-79) provided 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Sergei Miakinin (206-F/C-86) added 13 points for the winners. Nikolay Eremin (206-C-85) answered with 23 points for Aviastar. Olexiy Sevastianov (190-G-88) had 10 points, 6 boards and 6 assists in the 12th loss for the visitors.

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VENEZUELA

LPB Round 35: Cocodrilos keep a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Cocodrilos as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Cocodrilos smashed 10th ranked Gaiteros in Caracas 96-55. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gaiteros lost tenth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 26 lost games. Gaiteros will play next round against strong Guaiqueries trying to get back on the winning streak. Cocodrilos will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game.
Important game to mention about took place in La Guaira. Sixth ranked Gigantes (15-15) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging 4th placed Bucaneros (15-15) 81-80 in the game for the fifth place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bucaneros. Gigantes have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with defeated Bucaneros. Gigantes will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Bucaneros will play again at home against Gigantes (#5) in Puerto Ordaz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Marinos (22-7) against fifth ranked Guaiqueries (15-13) on Thursday night. Visiting Marinos were defeated by Guaiqueries in Porlamar 83-71. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Marinos. Guaiqueries moved-up to fourth place. Marinos at the other side keep the second position with seven games lost. Guaiqueries will meet bottom-ranked Gaiteros (#10) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Marinos will play against Panteras (#7) in Caracas and hope to secure a win.
The game in Maracay was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Trotamundos (20-10) played at the court of 8th ranked Toros (11-20). Trotamundos did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 96-78. Trotamundos maintains third place with 20-10 record having just 0 points less than leader Cocodrilos. Toros lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 20 games lost. Trotamundos will have a break next round. Toros will play again on the road against Trotamundos (#3) in Valencia.

In the last two games of round 35 Guaiqueries were defeated by Trotamundos in Valencia 93-75. Bucaneros beat Toros at home 90-74.

Trotamundos - Guaiqueries 93-75

There was no surprise in Valencia where 5th ranked Guaiqueries (15-13) were defeated by third ranked Trotamundos (20-10) 93-75. Trotamundos maintains third place with 20-10 record having just 0 points less than leader Cocodrilos. Guaiqueries at the other side dropped to the fourth position with 13 games lost. Trotamundos' next round opponent will be Toros (#8) in Maracay which should be theoretically an easy game. Guaiqueries will play on the road against Gaiteros (#10) in Maracaibo.

Cocodrilos - Gaiteros 96-55

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Cocodrilos as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Cocodrilos smashed 10th ranked Gaiteros in Caracas 96-55. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Gaiteros lost tenth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 26 lost games. Gaiteros will play next round against strong Guaiqueries trying to get back on the winning streak. Cocodrilos will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game.

Toros - Trotamundos 78-96

The game in Maracay was also worth to mention about. Third ranked Trotamundos (20-10) played at the court of 8th ranked Toros (11-20). Trotamundos did not have too big problems and got a relatively easy victory 96-78. Trotamundos maintains third place with 20-10 record having just 0 points less than leader Cocodrilos. Toros lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 20 games lost. Trotamundos will have a break next round. Toros will play again on the road against Trotamundos (#3) in Valencia.

Guaiqueries - Marinos 83-71

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Marinos (22-7) against fifth ranked Guaiqueries (15-13) on Thursday night. Visiting Marinos were defeated by Guaiqueries in Porlamar 83-71. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Marinos. Guaiqueries moved-up to fourth place. Marinos at the other side keep the second position with seven games lost. Guaiqueries will meet bottom-ranked Gaiteros (#10) in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Marinos will play against Panteras (#7) in Caracas and hope to secure a win.

Bucaneros - Gigantes 80-81

Important game to mention about took place in La Guaira. Sixth ranked Gigantes (15-15) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging 4th placed Bucaneros (15-15) 81-80 in the game for the fifth place. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bucaneros. Gigantes have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with defeated Bucaneros. Gigantes will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Bucaneros will play again at home against Gigantes (#5) in Puerto Ordaz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Bucaneros - Toros 90-74

No shocking result in a game in La Guaira where fourth ranked Bucaneros (15-15) defeated 8th ranked Toros (11-20) 90-74. Bucaneros have a solid series of three victories in a row. Despite that victory Bucaneros went down to fifth position due to points difference, which they share with Gigantes. Toros lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 20 games lost. Bucaneros' next round opponent will be Gigantes (#5) in Puerto Ordaz. Toros will play on the road against Trotamundos in Valencia.

Standings - LPB

LPB Standings

1. Cocodrilos		22-6
2. Marinos		22-7
3. Trotamundos		20-10
4. Guaiqueries		15-13
5. Gigantes		15-15
6. Bucaneros		15-15
7. Panteras		14-16
8. Toros		11-20
9. Guaros		9-19
10. Gaiteros		4-26

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Belinda Snell wins the title in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Belinda Snell (181-F-81) finished the season abroad and it was maybe the best one in her career. Snell helped Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca to win the Spanish league title last night and three weeks ago they already made historical result by winning the Euroleague trophy. In the LFB Finals Perfumerias swept the defending champ Ros Casares with perfect 2-0 to win the title after five years. Ros Casares was dominating since 2006/07 season. Belinda Snell was one of their important players in this series. She had 10 points in Game One and Perfumerias won that game 79-73. Last night Snell scored 9 points for her team helping them to beat the hosts 90-85. Snell joined Perfumerias last summer from Ros Casares. She appeared 27 times in LFB averaging 9.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists. In Euroleague, her averages were 8.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.9 assists.

Big V: Round 6 Preview - by Eurobasket News
Eltham vs. Waverley Sat 30/04 8pm @ Eltham High School
Returning from the Easter Break this State Championship Womens Game of the Round between Eltham and Waverley is set to be an absolute blockbuster. As expected the Eltham Wildcats have been the dominant side in the competition so far and remain undefeated with a 6-0 record. A host of experienced stars are mixing perfectly with the Wildcats junior contingent presenting a team that does not even look like losing. With Hollie Grima Florance still to join the roster the Wildcats are the hottest of hot favourites. Their opponents in this big game are perennial finalists the Waverley Falcons. Under new Coach Bianca White the Falcons seem fresh and re-focussed and have also been in blistering form with a 4-1 record. The return of Julie Brookhouse to the Falcons line-up this season has paid immediate dividends and with Laura Thomas in great form if anyone is going to push Eltham its this Waverley team.

Sherbrooke vs. Melbourne Sat 30/04 6pm @ Monbulk Secondary College
Sherbrooke play Melbourne for the second time in 2K11 and the Suns will be looking to reverse the result from the first game which saw the Tigers run out 12 point winners. In this game it was Rachael Waterhouse leading the Suns with 16-points, but with an injury against Diamond Valley ruling her out of this one, other players are going to have to step up and share the offensive load. Nicole Zammit, Ashley Hirons and Tegan Fowler were all outstanding for Melbourne in their last game and it is hard to see Sherbrooke having the depth to cover their big 3.

Hume City vs. Ringwood Sat 30/04 7pm @ Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium
The Lady Broncos go into this game still searching for their first win of the season when they take on the Ringwood Hawks. The Broncos gave Championship favourites Eltham an almighty scare in the last round, and if you happened to see Coach Brian Vaughns On the Couch segment on Big V TV, his moulding of this young group has them closer to a win than ever.the question is whether this is their breakthrough game?
Ringwood are currently in 2nd place on the ladder and with a 5-1 record, dropping their first game of the season to Eltham last round. They have exceeded most peoples expectations thus far. They have their sights firmly set on a finals birth in 2K11 so they will want to bounce back in this one with a win.

Diamond Valley vs. Bulleen Sun 01/05 1pm @ Diamond Valley Sports Centre
Two proud clubs in Diamond Valley and Bulleen yet in this seasons State Championship Womens competition both sit with poor 1-5 records. Now the Easter break is over if either of them is going to make a late run at play-offs they must start putting wins on the board now! Look for Bulleens new star recruit Hannah Zavecz to play in this one and ultimately be the difference between the two sides.

Waverley vs. Sherbrooke Sun 01/05 1.30pm @ Waverley Basketball Stadium
The Falcons and Suns back it up in their second game of the weekend, and this is a game that Waverley will be expected to win. Its the first time these sides have met in season 2K11 and the Falcons are hell bent in turning their home floor into one of the hardest places to win at in the league. Fitness will be a key and the team that pulls up best from the night before is going to have a big advantage going into this one.
Courtesy of: bigv.com.au

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BELGIUM - Women

Anke De Mondt helps Perfumerias win the Spanish title - by Eurobasket News
Anke De Mondt (180-F/G-79) just finished the wonderful season with her Perfumerias. They won the Euroleague title three weeks ago and last night managed to win the LFB trophy after five years. Perfumerias swept the defending champ Ros Casares with perfect 2-0 in the Finals and De Mondt demonstrated pretty good performance. She helped Perfumerias beat Ros Casares 79-73 in Game One as she collected 7 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. In the second game, which was played last night, De Mondt had 12 points, 3 boards and 4 assists. Perfumerias celebrated 90-85 road win. Anke De Mondt joined Perfumerias in 2007 from Burgos. She appeared 30 in LFB this season averaging 8.1 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists. She also had 8.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 1.9 apg in Euroleague.

D1 Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Sara LEEMANS
  Sint K.
  (178-G/F-88)
  Avg: 20.3

1. Leemans, Sint K.	20.3
2. Tatham, Point C.	18.4
3. Meesseman, Ieper	18.0
4. Dennett, Sint K.	16.8
5. VanMalderen, Dexia	16.5
6. Decroos, BBC Boom	15.7
7. Wilkins, Point Cha.	15.1
8. Gaither, Dexia N.	15.1
9. Mayombo, Point C.	14.8
10. Blommaers, Houth.	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Emma MEESSEMAN
  Ieper
  (188-C-93)
  Avg: 11.1

1. Meesseman, Ieper	11.1
2. Dennett, Sint K.	10.1
3. Wilkins, Point Cha.	9.0
4. Tatham, Point C.	8.9
5. Gaither, Dexia N.	8.8
6. Kurtozi, R.Spirou.	8.6
7. Van Respaill., War.	8.0
8. Deyaert, Waregem	7.7
9. Malfait, Jeugd G.	7.2
10. Maes, Deerlijk	7.1

Assists Per Game

Sara LEEMANS
  Sint K.
  (178-G/F-88)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Leemans, Sint K.	3.2
2. Mayombo, Point C.	2.2
3. Ballau, R.Spirou.	2.1
4. Van Dessel, Sint K.	2.0
5. Vanloo, Waregem	1.9
6. Deyaert, Waregem	1.8
7. Degels, Jeugd G.	1.8
8. Van Driel, BBC B.	1.8
9. Blommaers, Houth.	1.8
10. Devliegher, Ieper	1.8

Steals Per Game

Emma MEESSEMAN
  Ieper
  (188-C-93)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Meesseman, Ieper	2.4
2. Mayombo, Point C.	2.2
3. Gaither, Dexia N.	2.2
4. Van De Bruae., Dee.	2.1
5. Leemans, Sint K.	2.1
6. Van den Vond., BB.	2.0
7. Ballau, R.Spirou.	2.0
8. Van Driel, BBC B.	2.0
9. Celus, Sint Kateli.	2.0
10. Deyaert, Waregem	1.9

Blocks Per Game

Emma MEESSEMAN
  Ieper
  (188-C-93)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Meesseman, Ieper	2.8
2. Boonen, BBC Boom	1.8
3. Dennett, Sint K.	1.7
4. Kurtozi, R.Spirou.	1.1
5. Lentacker, Jeugd	0.9
6. Malfait, Jeugd G.	0.8
7. Van Respaill., War.	0.8
8. VanMalderen, Dexia	0.8
9. Gaither, Dexia N.	0.8
10. De Meyer, Willebr.	0.7

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BRAZIL - Women

Erika DeSouza leads Perfumerias to Spanish league title - by Eurobasket News
Amazing season for Erika DeSouza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) and her team Perfumerias Avenida Salamanca. After they won the Euroleague title three weeks ago, Perfumerias became the Spanish league champion. They swept the defending champ Ros Casares with perfect 2-0 in the Finals to win the LFB title after five years. Ros Casares was dominating since 2006/07 season. Erika DeSouza was a key player of Perfumerias in the Finals. In Game One she exploded with 29 points and 12 rebounds and her team won at home 79-73. Last night in Valencia DeSouza shined once again. She spent 28 minutes on the court collecting 19 points and 12 boards and Perfumerias won 90-85. DeSouza appeared 29 times in LFB this season averaging 13.6 points and 8.5 rebounds. In Euroleague, she added 12.6 ppg and 7.7 rpg for 16 games.

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CYPRUS - Women

Finals: AEK Larnakas beat AEL Limassol 81-74 and is leading the series with 2-1 - by Chris Mammides
It seems that the home courts of the two teams playing in the finals will break only by a small miracle as the two teams do change totally upon playing in their home-court while they are losing at least 30% of their power upon playing as visitors. So the same story continued yesterday in the Kition, the home court of Petrolina AEK Larnakas, where Nikolina Kouzis girls succeeded a very important home win re-shaping the finals to 2-1 and now they need simply (the small miracle) to break the Melford Arena, home court of AEL
The game was a continuous monologue for the home team (small but steady differences) and especially the ex Athinaikos forward, Katerina Zohnova (179-G-84) who performed her best game since she arrived in Cyprus, she was the MVP of the game and the top scorer and prove to the Larnacas management and coaching team that their investment was 100% correct.
The international Forward from Czech Republic was simply unstoppable in the third match of the final stage against AEL and with her 31 points and 10 rebounds ended any possible dreams Coach Atnoniou had in order to break AEKs home court.
On the other hand, and on behalf of AEL the best game since she arrived in Cyprus was performed by Scekic who ended the game with 20 points and 5 out of seven three pointers. Top scorer for another game for the Limassol team was Vucicevic with 26 points.
The quarters were: 20-16, 40-35, 58-53, and 81-74
AEK: Athanasiou 6, Nikodimou 6, Hatzibey 4, Katerina Zohnova 31, Lloyde 22, Kancevic 12
AEL: Papadouri 1, Scekic 20, Rous 2, Vezelovski 14, Popovic 11, Vukicevic 26

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Czech Rep. D1 Awards 2010-11 - by Greg

All-Czech Rep. D1 1st Team 2010-2011

Ford

Eldebrink

Johnova

Viteckova

Milton-Jones

Player of the Year: Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81) of Frisco Sika
Guard of the Year: Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) of Frisco Sika
Forward of the Year: Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74) of USK Praha
Center of the Year: Cheryl Ford (191-F/C-81) of Frisco Sika
Bosman Player of the Year: Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) of Frisco Sika
Import Player of the Year: Delisha Milton-Jones (186-F-74) of USK Praha
Domestic Player of the Year: Eva Viteckova (189-F-82) of USK Praha
Defensive Player of the Year: Ivana Vecerova (194-C-79) of Valosun Brno
Coach of the Year: Jan Bobrovsky of Frisco Sika

1st Team
G: Frida Eldebrink (174-88) of Frisco Sika
G: Darina Johnova (178-85) of Strakonice
F: Eva Viteckova (189-82) of USK Praha
F: Delisha Milton-Jones (186-74) of USK Praha
F/C: Cheryl Ford (191-81) of Frisco Sika

2nd Team
G: Lindsay Whalen (173-82) of USK Praha
G: Hana Nezdarilova-Stankova (170-84) of Slovanka MB
G/F: Veronika Vlkova (175-84) of Valosun Brno
G: Frida Eldebrink (174-88) of Frisco Sika
C: Petra Reisingerova (196-73) of Strakonice

Honorable Mention
Katerina Elhotova (176-G-89) of USK Praha
Jelena Skerovic (172-G-80) of Frisco Sika
Darina Misurova (163-G-81) of Trutnov
Michaela Uhrova (166-G-82) of Strakonice
Tereza Brantlova (172-G-82) of VS Praha
Hana Snajdrova-Ziklova (182-F-80) of Trutnov
Michaela Zrustova (183-F-87) of Valosun Brno
Andrea Ovsikova (178-F-89) of Hradec Kralove
Michaela Magerciakova (188-C-77) of Karlovy Vary
Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) of Frisco Sika
Ivana Vecerova (194-C-79) of Valosun Brno

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Katerina Elhotova (176-89) of USK Praha
G: Darina Johnova (178-85) of Strakonice
G: Hana Nezdarilova-Stankova (170-84) of Slovanka MB
F: Eva Viteckova (189-82) of USK Praha
C: Petra Reisingerova (196-73) of Strakonice

All-Bosmans Team
G: Frida Eldebrink (174-88) of Frisco Sika
G: Jelena Skerovic (172-80) of Frisco Sika
F: Katarina Hrabakova (177-86) of Karlovy Vary
F: Evanthia Maltsi (180-78) of USK Praha
C: Louice Halvarsson (189-89) of Frisco Sika

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FRANCE - Women

Dumerc and Gruda taste Gold with UMMC - by Eurobasket News
Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) and Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) taste Gold in Russia with local UMMC. Two French National team players won the Finals with the Russian team and became the winners of some awards.
UMMC clinched 2010/2011 title! After two wins at home UMMC added 75:70 road win to weep the series. It looked good early as Spartak Vidnoye took an 8-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then UMMC Ekaterinburg took control winning next two quarters and eventually winning the game that evening by 5 points. It was a good game for American power forward Candace Parker who led her team to a victory with 20 points. International center Maria Stepanova contributed with a double-double by scoring 11 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. American power forward Taj McWilliams-Franklin answered with 21 points and 6 rebounds and international forward Irina Osipova added 13 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for Spartak Vidnoye. Five UMMC Ekaterinburg and four Spartak Vidnoye players scored in double figures.
Sandrine Gruda was named Bosman Player of the Year 2011. Celine Dumerc made it to all All-Bosmans Team.

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LATVIA - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Latvian LSBL Awards 2010-11 - by Karol

Krumberga

Krastina

Eibele

Karklina

Surkusa

Player of the Year: Dita Krumberga (183-F-84) of TTT Riga
Guard of the Year: Anda Eibele (170-G-84) of TTT Riga
Forward of the Year: Dita Krumberga (183-F-84) of TTT Riga
Center of the Year: Liga Surkusa (192-C-91) of TTT Riga
Defensive Player of the Year: Liga Surkusa (192-C-91) of TTT Riga
Coach of the Year: Aigars Nerips of TTT Riga

1st Team
F: Dita Krumberga (183-84) of TTT Riga
G/F: Ieva Krastina (176-90) of LU
G: Anda Eibele (170-84) of TTT Riga
G: Kristine Karklina (175-83) of TTT Riga
C: Liga Surkusa (192-91) of TTT Riga

2nd Team
C: Guna Lagzdina (182-93) of TTT Juniores
F/C: Lina Lisnere (192-86) of Cesis
F: Karline Nimane (188-90) of TTT Riga
F: Zane Jakobsone (180-85) of TTT Riga
F: Kristina Egle (177-86) of Daugavpils

Honorable Mention
Ieva Veinberga (180-F-84) of TTT Riga
Eva Pavlovska (176-G/F-89) of TTT Riga
Olesja Jevsejeva (174-F-86) of Daugavpils

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LITHUANIA - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LMKL Awards 2010-11 - by Greg

All-Lithuanian LMKL 1st Team 2010-2011

Bimbaite

Milieskiene

Solopova

Margeviciute

Baliutaviciute

Player of the Year: Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) of VICI Kaunas
Guard of the Year: Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) of VICI Kaunas
Forward of the Year: Sandra Baliutaviciute (182-F-81) of Laisve
Center of the Year: Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) of VICI Kaunas
Import Player of the Year: Courtnay Pilypaitis (185-G-88) of VICI Kaunas
Domestic Player of the Year: Ausra Bimbaite (179-G-82) of VICI Kaunas
Defensive Player of the Year: Sandra Baliutaviciute (182-F-81) of Laisve
Coach of the Year: Mantas Sernius of VICI Kaunas

1st Team
G: Ausra Bimbaite (179-82) of VICI Kaunas
G: Rita Milieskiene (175-78) of Lemminkainen
G/F: Marina Solopova (180-90) of VICI Kaunas
F: Rima Margeviciute (191-81) of Lemminkainen
F: Sandra Baliutaviciute (182-81) of Laisve

2nd Team
G: Courtnay Pilypaitis (185-88) of VICI Kaunas
G: Ligita Kinkeviciene (173-76) of Laisve
F: Jurga Budryte (187-81) of Laisve
F: Monika Grigalauskyte (187-92) of Lemminkainen
C: Giedre Paugaite (192-90) of VICI Kaunas

Honorable Mention
Ela Briedyte (176-G-79) of Utena
Ela Briedyte (176-G-79) of Utena
Asta Daujadiene (176-G-73) of Utena
Mante Kvederaviciute (180-G-90) of Laisve
Santa Okockyte (176-G-92) of LKKA-Aistes
Kristina Alminaite (204-C-90) of VICI Kaunas
Vita Kuktiene (186-F-80) of VICI Kaunas
Kornelija Balciunaite (176-F-81) of LKKA-Aistes
Inga Aleksaite (193-C-89) of MRU
Kristina Palaimaite (191-F/C-81) of Utena
Giedre Kirstukaite (190-C-86) of Utena

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Ausra Bimbaite (179-82) of VICI Kaunas
G: Rita Milieskiene (175-78) of Lemminkainen
G/F: Marina Solopova (180-90) of VICI Kaunas
F: Rima Margeviciute (191-81) of Lemminkainen
F: Sandra Baliutaviciute (182-81) of Laisve

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MALI - Women

Sissoko finishes the season for Helios - by Eurobasket News
Djenebou Sissoko finishes the season for Helios on a high note as her Swiss team finished second in Switzerland. Fribourg overcame Helios for the second straight home victory and claimed 3-1 victory in the championship series. Celeste Trahan came up with another pivotal performance as she tallied 41 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. Fribourg got in charge in the first frame. They recorded a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the pressure in the second stanza. They ensured a 39:30 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. Fribourg were able to keep a 9-point lead as they entered the final period. Helios tried hard in the final period to change things around but scored just 15 points and came up short at the end. Angelina Williams provided 15 points and 11 rebounds for Fribourg. Jalinka Michaux and Maria Villarroel answered with 21 points each for Helios. Djenebou Sissoko (190-F/C-82, college: Union (TN)) had 12 points and 15 rebounds in the loss.

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MONTENEGRO - Women

Baletic published list of players for NT - by Dragan Scepanovic
Womens senior national team selector Miodrag Baletic published a list of 19 players that account for the preparations for the European Championships in Poland, which is scheduled from 18 June to 3 July.
The list is 19 players:
Jelena Skerovic (Frisko Sika, CZ), Snezana Aleksic (Gospic, CRO), Jelena Culafic, Marija Vujadinovic (Buducnost PGD,MNE), Masa Stanisic (Roling, Niksic MNE), Maja Milutinovic (Vozdovac, Beograd SRB), Ana De Forz (Hondaribia, ESP), Neda Nikolic,Sanja Knezeviz (Jedinstvo, Bijelo Polje MNE), Jelena Dubljevic (Tarbes, FRA), Ana Baletic (Atinaikos, GRE),Milka Bjelica (Lotos Gdinja, POL), Biljana Turcinovic (Atomeromu, HUN), Iva Perovanovic (Lates Monpelje, FRA),Natasa Popovic (Jedinstvo, Bijelo Polje MNE), Ana Turcinovic (Merkur Celje, SLO), Kristina Rakovic (Jedinstvo, Bijelo Polje MNE), Esaja Marfi (Soler Huventud Mariana, ESP),Milica Jovanovic (Umbertide, ITA)

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RUSSIA - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Russian Superleague Awards 2010-11 - by Eurobasket

All-Russian Superleague 1st Team 2010-11

Parker

Prince

Stepanova

Charles

Davenport

This year awards were dominated by centers. Excluding Candace Parker, who played mostly forward in MCC, names like Stepanova, Charles and Davenport belong definitely to the 1st team. So we decided to make exception and place all three stars in 1st team.
UMMC which won third consecutive championship was definitely the best team full of stars. But the most equal team was Spartak, which had the most balanced squad. If we had to choose the best player of the finalist , it would be probably Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague 1st Teamer Epiphanny Prince.

Player of the Year: Candace Parker (193-F/C-86) of UMMC
Guard of the Year: Epiphanny Prince (175-G-88) of Spartak V MR
Forward of the Year: Candace Parker (193-F/C-86) of UMMC
Center of the Year: Tina Charles (193-C-88) of Nadezhda O.
Bosman Player of the Year: Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) of UMMC
Import Player of the Year: Candace Parker (193-F/C-86) of UMMC
Domestic Player of the Year: Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) of UMMC
Defensive Player of the Year: Jessica Davenport (196-C-85) of Chevakata
Coach of the Year: Gundars Vetra of UMMC

1st Team
G: Epiphanny Prince (175-88) of Spartak V MR
F/C: Candace Parker (193-86) of UMMC
C: Maria Stepanova (202-79) of UMMC
C: Tina Charles (193-88) of Nadezhda O.
C: Jessica Davenport (196-85) of Chevakata

2nd Team
G: Sandra Linkeviciene (176-82) of Dynamo K.
G/F: Ana Dabovic (183-89) of Dynamo-GUVD
G/F: Deanna Nolan (181-79) of UMMC
C: Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-87) of Nadezhda O.
C: Sandrine Gruda (193-87) of UMMC

Honorable Mention
Olga Arteshina (184-F-82) of UMMC
Irina Osipova (196-F-81) of Spartak V MR
Elena Baranova (194-F-72) of Nadezhda O.
Anna Petrakova (188-F-84) of Chevakata
Natalya Myasoedova (192-C-87) of Dynamo-GUVD
Ilona Korstine (182-G-80) of Spartak V MR
Cappie Pondexter (175-G-83) of UMMC
Sue Bird (175-G-80) of Spartak V MR
Michelle Snow (196-C-80) of Dynamo K.
Jennifer Lacy (191-F/C-83) of Spartak SP

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Eugeniya Belyakova (182-86) of Spartak SP
G: Ilona Korstine (182-80) of Spartak V MR
F: Olga Arteshina (184-82) of UMMC
F: Irina Osipova (196-81) of Spartak V MR
C: Maria Stepanova (202-79) of UMMC

All-Imports Team
G: Epiphanny Prince (175-88) of Spartak V MR
G/F: Deanna Nolan (181-79) of UMMC
F/C: Candace Parker (193-86) of UMMC
C: Tina Charles (193-88) of Nadezhda O.
C: Jessica Davenport (196-85) of Chevakata

All-Bosmans Team
G: Celine Dumerc (169-82) of UMMC
G: Sandra Linkeviciene (176-82) of Dynamo K.
G/F: Ana Dabovic (183-89) of Dynamo-GUVD
C: Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-87) of Nadezhda O.
C: Sandrine Gruda (193-87) of UMMC

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SAINT VINCENT - Women

Sancho Lyttle wins another trophy with Perfumerias - by Eurobasket News
It was a season to remember for Sancho Lyttle (193-C-83, college: Houston) and her team Perfumerias. They won the Euroleague title three weeks ago and last night managed to win the Spanish league title. Perfumerias swept the defending champion Ros Casares with perfect 2-0 in the Finals. They celebrated 79-73 win in Game One and Lyttle helped her team with 12 points and 7 rebounds. In the second game Perfumerias celebrated 85-90 road victory. Lyttle had 13 points and 8 boards in this meeting. Sancho Lyttle joined Perfumerias in 2009 from Ibiza. She appeared 27 times in Spanish league this season averaging 13.5 points and 8.4 rebounds. In Euroleague, she added 13.9 ppg and 9.8 rpg. Sancho Lyttle has Vincentian and Spanish citizenship. She played for the San Vicente National Team in 2004.

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SLOVENIA - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian League Awards 2010-11 - by Zeljko Zule
Player of the Year: Teja Oblak (172-G-90) of Hit Kranjska Gora
Guard of the Year: Teja Oblak of Hit Kranjska Gora
Forward of the Year: Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) of Hit Kranjska Gora
Center of the Year: Ana Turcinovic (190-C-93) of Athlete Celje
Newcomer of the Year: Ziva Macura (184-F-95) of Jezica
Most Improved Player of the Year: Rebeka Abramovic (170-G-93) of Athlete Celje
Import Player of the Year: Ana Turcinovic of Athlete Celje
Domestic Player of the Year: Teja Oblak of Hit Kranjska Gora
Defensive Player of the Year: Teja Oblak of Hit Kranjska Gora
Coach of the Year: Goran Jovanovic of Hit Kranjska Gora

1st Team
Teja Oblak of Hit KranjskaGora
Nika Baric (169-G-92) of Athlete Celje
Eva Komplet of Hit Kranjska Gora
Tina Trebec (189-F/C-90) of Hit Kranjska Gora
Ana Turcinovic of Athlete Celje

2nd Team
Martina Dover (177-G-86) of AJM Maribor
Natasa Radulovic (181-G-82) of Hit Kranjska Gora
Monika Bosilj (178-G-85, college: FIU) of Athlete Celje
Kristina Baltic (187-F/C-90) of AJM Maribor
Martina Osterman (188-F-88) of Hit Kranjska Gora

Honorable Mention
Sasa Panic (172-G-86) of Hit Kranjska Gora
Rebeka Abramovic of Athlete Celje
Ljubica Kure (178-G-81) of AJM Maribor
Maja Drozg (179-F/C-81) of AJM Maribor
Barbara Skof (181-F-80) of Ilirija
Ziva Zdolsek (178-G-89) of Triglav
Ana Ljubenovic (182-F/C-88) of Triglav
Ziva Macura of Jezica
Nina Gabrovsek (168-G-94) of Jezica
Ajda Gabrovsek (188-C-84) of Odeja
Natasa Mikic (181-G-84) of Grosuplje

All-Domestic Players Team
Teja Oblak of Hit KranjskaGora
Nika Baric of Athlete Celje
Eva Komplet of Hit Kranjska Gora
Tina Trebec of Hit Kranjska Gora
Martina Osterman of Hit Kranjska Gora

All-Imports Team
Natasa Mikic of Grosuplje
Maaike Klein (177-G-90) of Athlete Celje
Monika Bosilj of Athlete Celje
Kristina Baltic of AJM Maribor
Ana Turcinovic of Athlete Celje

All-Defensive Team
Teja Oblak of Hit Kranjska Gora
Rebeka Abramovic of Athlete Celje
Eva Komplet of Hit Kranjska Gora
Tina Trebec of Hit Kranjska Gora
Ana Turcinovic of Athlete Celje

All-Newcomers Team
Klara Zupancic (170-G-95) of Grosuplje
Ursa Svetic (173-G-93) of Rogaska
Alina Gjerkes (177-F-94) of Grosuplje
Ziva Macura of Jezica
Tina Jakovina (182-G-92) of Pivka

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SWITZERLAND - Women

Fribourg are new LNA champions! - by Eurobasket News
Fribourg - Helios 73:65

Fribourg clinched LNA title. They overcame Helios for the second straight home victory and claimed 3-1 victory in the championship series. Celeste Trahan (184-C-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Elizabeth City) came up with another pivotal performance as she tallied 41 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. Fribourg got in charge in the first frame. They recorded a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the pressure in the second stanza. They ensured a 39:30 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. Fribourg were able to keep a 9-point lead as they entered the final period. Helios tried hard in the final period to change things around but scored just 15 points and came up short at the end. Angelina Williams (183-F-83, college: Illinois) provided 15 points and 11 rebounds for Fribourg. Jalinka Michaux (175-F-87) and Maria Villarroel (174-G-78, agency: LBM Management, college: Oklahoma) answered with 21 points each for Helios. Djenebou Sissoko had 12 points and 15 rebounds in the loss.

Fribourg: Celeste Trahan 41+18 boards, Angelina Williams 15+11 boards, Bettina Muller (166-G-82) 7
Helios: Jalinka Michaux 21, Maria Villarroel 21

LNSA Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mariesa GREENE
  Pully
  (183-F-)
  Avg: 30.2

1. Greene, Pully	30.2
2. Trahan, Fribourg	27.4
3. Villarroel, Helios	25.8
4. Edwards, Riva B.	25.5
5. Diouf, Pully	25.2
6. Bowman, Riva B.	25.1
7. Sissoko, Helios	23.3
8. Williams, Fribourg	20.7
9. Yanni, Basel	19.6
10. Klimowicz, Nyon	19.2

Rebounds Per Game

Mariesa GREENE
  Pully
  (183-F-)
  Avg: 16.2

1. Greene, Pully	16.2
2. Trahan, Fribourg	14.5
3. Sissoko, Helios	12.4
4. Wilkins, Riva Bask.	12.2
5. Hamlin, Highflyers	11.3
6. Klimowicz, Nyon	11.0
7. Bowman, Riva B.	10.6
8. Edwards, Riva B.	10.2
9. Griffith, Highflye.	9.6
10. Skouby, Basel	9.3

Assists Per Game

Diodio DIOUF
  Pully
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 6

1. Diouf, Pully	6.0
2. Williams, Fribourg	4.4
3. Villarroel, Helios	4.3
4. Dorestand, Highf.	4.2
5. Yanni, Basel	3.8
6. Heckendorn, Basel	3.5
7. Greene, Pully	3.3
8. Gur, Nyon	3.0
9. Annibale, Riva Bas.	2.7
10. Sakica, Highflyers	2.7

Steals Per Game

Maria VILLARROEL
  Helios
  (174-G-78)
  Avg: 4.3

1. Villarroel, Helios	4.3
2. Diouf, Pully	4.3
3. Greene, Pully	4.2
4. Gur, Nyon	4.0
5. Williams, Fribourg	3.9
6. Sissoko, Helios	3.4
7. Edwards, Riva B.	3.3
8. Klimowicz, Nyon	3.2
9. Jakab, Riva Basket	3.1
10. Trahan, Fribourg	3.1

Blocks Per Game

Hillary KLIMOWICZ
  Nyon
  (191-F/C-87)
  Avg: 4.7

1. Klimowicz, Nyon	4.7
2. Williams, Fribourg	2.6
3. Bowman, Riva B.	1.7
4. Edwards, Riva B.	1.5
5. Skouby, Basel	1.4
6. Greene, Pully	1.3
7. Trahan, Fribourg	1.2
8. Hamlin, Highflyers	1.1
9. Favre, Nyon	1.1
10. Yanni, Basel	1.0

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TURKEY - Women

Alba Torrens in talks with Galatasaray - by Eurobasket News
Just one day after being awarded the Champion of the Spanish League Alba Torrens (184-F-89) will probably continue with Galatasaray next season. The Turkish team announced the agreement with the Spanish star.
Over the last few years Alba Torrens became Spanish LFB Cup Finalist -10, FIBA Young Women's Player of the Year 2009, Euroleague All-Star Game -10, 11, Eurobasket.com Spanish LFB All-Domestic Players Team -10, Spanish LFB Finalist -10, Spanish LFB Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Eurobasket.com All-Euroleague 3rd Team -11, Eurobasket.com Euroleague All-Europeans Team -11.
Last night Spanish LFB got a new champion. Perfumerias celebrated 85-90 victory in Valencia last night sweeping the defending champ Ros Casares with perfect 2-0 in the Finals. It means that Perfumerias won the title in Spain after five years. Ros Casares was dominating since 2006/07 season. Perfumerias already won the Euroleague title three weeks ago. Alba Torrens netted 11 points in the final game.

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UKRAINE - Women

Olena Zherzherunova heads to Kozachka - by Eurobasket News
Another loud transfer was confirmed this week as Ukrainian star Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) heads to Kozachka. The season 2010-2011 Olena started with Club Atletico Faenza (Italy-A1, starting five), but in Jan.'11 moved to Mediteam Szeged (Hungary-A, starting five). In Hungary she recorded 24 points twice in the season.In the beginning of January Szolnok outlasted Szeged in overtime by two points 84-82 on Wednesday night. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Szeged. Szeged cut a 13-point halftime deficit to tie the game at the end of regular time. But they lost overtime period 10-12. Szolnok made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Guard Krisztina Pungor stepped up and scored 19 points and 4 assists for the winners and Slovenian guard Katarina Ristic chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. Four Szolnok players scored in double figures. Ukrainian forward Olena Zherzherunova responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 14 rebounds.
In March Pecs 2010 beat Szeged 78-54 as Pecs 2010 led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Szeged's 34. They outrebounded Szeged 39-21 including a 28-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. American forward Kelsey Griffin stepped up and scored 26 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners and the former international forward Nora Bujdoso chipped in 8 points and 12 rebounds. Pecs 2010's coach Zeljko Dokic felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Ukrainian forward Olena Zherzherunova responded with 24 points and 5 rebounds .

UPBL teams bring reirforcements from neigbouring leagues - by Eurobasket
Orlan Simferopol signed two players from Belarussian League, which just anded. They acquired Katsiaryna Kashlei (166-G-90) and Lyubov Alyoshkina (202-C-81).
Kashlei is Belarussian U20 international. She was the main point guard of Belarussian Olimpia GrGAU Grodno, which participated in BWBL. She was Baltic League 5th best in assists with 3.5apg. At last year European Championships U20 in Liepaja (Latvia), she was the starting five player of Belarussian team averaging 11.5ppg and 2.8apg.
Alyoshkina is well-known Ukrainian international center. She will be the tallest player in Ukrainian League with impressive 202cm. She just ended the season in Belarus playing for Sozh Gomel. She played 6 years ago for Kozachka and then went abroad to play in Russia (Dynamo Kursk), Lithuania (Arvi Marijampole), Slovakia (MBK Ruzomberok), Turkey (Samsun Basketbol) and finally in Belarus. She received Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian Extraliga Honorable Mention two years ago. She was the best blocker at the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 last year playing for Ukrainian National Team.
Both Kashlei and Alyoshkina helped Orlan in their last game where they easily beat Dnipro 82-67.

Politeh Basket Galitsiya Lviv brought Belarusian former U20 international center Tatsiana Zhurauliova, who started this season in Poland. Her stats in Polish PLKK were 9 games: 3.8ppg and 1.8rpg.
Zhurauliova was rather on the bench in Polish league, but agined starting five in Politeh Basket.

BC Frankivsk agreed terms with former Ukainian U20 player Mariya Dubas (182-G-84) and current Ukarinian international guard Arina Markotenko (170-G-89).
Dubas just ended the season in Belarus playing for Olimpia GrGAU Grodno. In 14 Baltic League games she averaged 4.4ppg, 4.3rpg and 2.6apg. Dubas was voted to Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Higher League Honorable Mention team two years ago playing for Tim-Scuf Kyiv, where she spent most of her career.
Markotenko came from Armenian Hatis, where she helped the team from Yerevan to play in EuroCup (2 games: 9.0ppg, 1.0rpg, 2.5apg, 2.0spg). She is a former Kozachka player with experience in Russian and Spanish leagues.

Dynamo-NPU Kyiv signed American small forward Shantel Ragin (178-G/F-87, college: Clayton St.). She played recently at East Point Lady Jaguar in American league WBCBL, where in 18 games averaged 20.1ppg, 5.6rpg and 5.0apg.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Arina MARKOTENKO
  Frank.
  (170-G-89)
  Avg: 20.5

1. Markotenko, Frank.	20.5
2. Iagupova, Dnipr.	20.0
3. Dorogobuzova, Tim-.	19.2
4. Rastorgueva, Donb.	18.6
5. Vukovic, Yuzhna P.	18.0
6. Alyoshkina, Orlan	18.0
7. Maznichenko, Tim-S.	17.8
8. Kashlei, Orlan	17.7
9. Pokoiova, Kozachka	17.7
10. Lubarskaya, Dyna.	17.6

Rebounds Per Game

Dragana VUKOVIC
  Yuzhna P.
  (190-C-78)
  Avg: 13.5

1. Vukovic, Yuzhna P.	13.5
2. Alyoshkina, Orlan	11.0
3. Zarytska, Kozachka	10.8
4. Dubas, Frankivsk	10.5
5. Ragin, Dynamo	10.2
6. Rimarenko, Dynamo	9.6
7. Kiriyenko, Dnipr.	9.3
8. Maznichenko, Tim-S.	9.2
9. Grishina, Lugans.	8.4
10. Kisilova, Kozachka	8.3

Assists Per Game

Olga DUBROVINA
  Kozachka
  (170-G-87)
  Avg: 6.5

1. Dubrovina, Kozach.	6.5
2. Siromatnikov., Yuz.	5.3
3. Panchenk-S., Koza.	4.4
4. Pokoiova, Kozachka	4.3
5. Lapshynova, Polite.	4.3
6. Vukovic, Yuzhna P.	4.0
7. Voronova, Polite.	4.0
8. Williams, Dnipr.	3.8
9. Sharovka, Tim-Scuf	3.8
10. Shablynska, Polit.	3.5

Steals Per Game

Olga DUBROVINA
  Kozachka
  (170-G-87)
  Avg: 6

1. Dubrovina, Kozach.	6.0
2. Williams, Dnipr.	3.5
3. Sharovka, Tim-Scuf	3.0
4. Polyanychka, Frank.	2.8
5. Markotenko, Frank.	2.8
6. Lubarskaya, Dynamo	2.6
7. Siromatnikov., Yuz.	2.5
8. Pokoiova, Kozachka	2.5
9. Dubas, Frankivsk	2.5
10. Rastorgueva, Don.	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Tetiana SHABLYNSKA
  Polite.
  (191-C-74)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Shablynska, Polite.	2.5
2. Alyoshkina, Orlan	2.3
3. Stafyuk, Dynamo	2.0
4. Bovykina, Dnipr.	2.0
5. Yaburova, Dnipr.	1.8
6. Maznichenko, Tim-S.	1.4
7. Kisilova, Kozachka	1.4
8. Kiriyenko, Dnipr.	1.3
9. Annenkova, Donbas	1.2
10. Dorogobuzova, Tim.	1.2

Standings (Women)

UPBL Standings

1. Tim-Scuf		7-0
2. Kozachka		7-2
3. Dynamo		5-2
4. Dnipro-DVUFK		4-3
5. Yuzhna Palmira		4-4
6. Frankivsk		3-3
7. Orlan		3-6
8. Donbas		2-5
9. Politeh Basket		2-5
10. Luganski Last.		0-7

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VENEZUELA - Women

Villarroel top-scored in the Final game abroad - by Eurobasket News
Maria Villarroel (174-G-78, agency: LBM Management, college: Oklahoma) and her Swiss Helios finished second in Switzerland. Fribourg overcame Helios for the second straight home victory and claimed 3-1 victory in the championship series. Celeste Trahan came up with another pivotal performance as she tallied 41 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. Fribourg got in charge in the first frame. They recorded a 20:17 lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the pressure in the second stanza. They ensured a 39:30 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. Fribourg were able to keep a 9-point lead as they entered the final period. Helios tried hard in the final period to change things around but scored just 15 points and came up short at the end. Angelina Williams provided 15 points and 11 rebounds for Fribourg. Jalinka Michaux and Maria Villarroelanswered with 21 points each for Helios. Djenebou Sissoko had 12 points and 15 rebounds in the loss.

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WNBA - Women

Dream signs Guard Shannon McCallum - by Eurobasket News
The Atlanta Dream announced today the team has signed guard Shannon McCallum (5'10''-G-87) to a training camp contract.

McCallum, a 5-10 guard, led the University of North Carolina at Charlotte to a school-record 27 victories and a WNIT Final Four appearance last season as a senior. The three-time All-Atlantic 10 selection led the 49ers in scoring, averaging 13.0 points per game. She ranked fourth on the team in rebounding (5.3 rpg) and second in steals (60).

McCallum was named to the North Carolina Collegiate Sports Information Association (NCCSIA) University Division All-State team three times in her collegiate career. She finished her career fourth in Charlotte's all-time scoring list with 1,525 career points and appeared in a school-record 130 games. McCallum ranks in Charlotte's top ten in field goals attempted, field goals made, three-point field goals made, three-point field goals attempted, free throws attempted, free throws made, rebounds, assists, steals, blocked shots and minutes played.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com